WALLEYED PIKE JULY 1940 TEN CENT OFFICIAL STATE VoL 9—No. 7 PUBLICATION VNGLER? JULY, 1940

PUBLISHED MONTHLY COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA by the BOARD OF FISH COMMISSIONERS PENNSYLVANIA BOARD OF FISH COMMISSIONERS

Publication Office: 549 Hamilton Street, Allentowm, Penna. Executive and Editorial Offices: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Board of Fish Commis­ sioners, Harrisburg, Pa. CHARLES A. FRENCH Commissioner of Fisheries

Ten cents a copy—50 cents a year MEMBERS OF BOARD

CHARLES A. FRENCH, Chairman Elwood City ALEX P. SWEIGART, Editor South Office Bldg., Harrisburg, Pa. MILTON L. PEEK Radnor

HARRY E. WEBER NOTE Subscriptions to the PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER Philipsburg should be addressed to the Editor. Submit fee either by check or money order payable to the Common­ EDGAR W. NICHOLSON wealth of Pennsylvania. Stamps not acceptable. Philadelphia Individuals sending cash do so at their own risk. FRED McKEAN New Kensington PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER welcomes contribu­ tions and photos of catches from its readers. Proper H. R. STACKHOUSE credit will be given to contributors. Secretary to Board All contributions returned if accompanied by first class postage.

Entered as second class matter at the Port Office C. R. BULLER of AUcntown, Pa., under Act of March 3, 1879. Chief Fish Culturist, Bellefonte

Sn>- IMPORTANT—The Editor should be notified immediately of change in subscriber's address Please give old and new addresses Permission to reprint will be granted provided proper credit notice is given Vol.9. No. 7 ^ANGLER/ JULY 1940

PYMATUNING SANCTUARY

ENTION has been made in previous issues of cooperative agreements M with water companies on bodies of water under their control which will materially increase warm water distribution. On June 1, 1940, an agreement was signed by the Department of Forests and Waters, the Game Commission, and the Board of Fish Commissioners enabling the Board to establish a Fish Farm in the refuge area of the Pyma- tuning Reservoir. In the construction of Pymatuning Reservoir, Crawford County, comprising approximately 18,000 acres, a game and fish sanctuary of 3700 acres was created on the upper dam and adjacent land, 2500 acres of which are now covered with water. For the past two years we have made extensive biological surveys of this area, and as a result, it was found the sanctuary had reached a point in fish production where a certain amount would have to be removed annually to prevent loss. These fish are to be used in stocking the main body of the lake, the surplus to be distributed to the inland waters open to the public for fishing. This year's crop has already reached approximately 400,000 fish of the different warm water species, and up to this time 30 tons of adult fish have been made available for stocking. In addition 25 bushels of yellow perch eggs were taken to the various hatcheries where they were hatched and distributed. From all indications, it appears the sanctuary each year will produce sufficient pike and yellow perch eggs for all inland waters, and will also be a source of supply for sucker eggs. There will also be produced sufficient bass for the rearing ponds at several of the Board's Hatcheries, and in addition a sufficient number will be propagated at the sanctuary for distribution in the main body of the lake. This will also apply to bream, catfish and minnows. Plans are now completed for the construction of a two-story building which will contain a series of tanks for the sorting and handling of fish and the growing of bass fry to the fingerling stage. A number of pools will also be constructed for holding areas and the growing of daphnia. The primary purpose of this new Fish Farm is to keep the fish population under control, and at the same time the surplus removed will add greatly to our distribution of warm water fish.

Corwnissioner of Fisheries 2 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY

BUCKTAIL

0*0kfWt*?Vi

••Ylt^lG -SILK TYINS SILK

FIG. I. rie.z.

SILVER PHEASENT FIBRES c TYINg -SILK -rvit~-ic5 SILK

FIQ.3. FIG. A- FIG. 5.

VE.L-L.OW CHENILLE

i* «,l,i^r,-^1l"n^."l«m',Vr|.H1iVi"'t' V^

TYINq SILK TYING SILK

F"iei. 6. FIG-7-

'--SCRI5LE-T HACKLE

TYING SILK

FlG-e»- FIQ. B

JUNGLE COCK FEATHERS

TYING; SILK Fl<5- C* FIG- 10. FIG.II. lO-tfyf. 6-11-40 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 3 BUCKTAIL FISHING By CHAS. M. WETZEL

S far as I have been able to gather, buck- maintain that their fingers are all thumbs, I they deviate little from this position even A tails were first introduced to the United would urge them to try tying a few buck- when rising to a fly. Depend on it that when States by Emerson Hough, after returning tails, starting out with the Alaskans—the a trout reverses this procedure to chase a from a trip to the Arctic Circle These flies simplest of all flies to tie. These Alaskan bucktail downstream, it is doing something as used there by the natives—no one knows flies are very simply made, and I first saw contrary to nature and that it will revert to how long—were large and made entirely of them tied by an Algonquin Indian up in" its natural position with all possible speed. deer hair. At first bucktails were slow in Northern Ontario. Suppose, we tie such a fly. Sometimes they pursue the lure long enough to grab it, but in perhaps the majority of gaining a foothold in this country—it was Place a long shanked hook in the vise, difficult to imagine anything so large being cases, they grow uneasy over following its and with well waxed tying silk (size 00) downstream course, and make one last fling, good for trout—but size proved no obstacle, start winding over its own end, beginning and as word got around, as such things will, no doubt with the object of frightening it about an eighth of an inch back from the eye. before it gets out of sight. everyone started taking them up. For the Make a few turns of the tying silk, then swab Past ten years, a regular buctkail wave has the shank of the hook, including the wound But perhaps the greatest reason of all for been sweeping the country, meeting with s over portion with lacquer cement, so that short striking fish is that the bucktail is uch success that no one can deny, the fly the body will remain in position and not moved too fast in the water. Next time, try is here to stay. turn. Continue winding out to the bend of working it a little slower. My policy is to pull the bucktail directly across, or slightly As takers of large trout, bucktails have no the hook, where the tying silk should be left 6c hanging with hackle pliers attached. upstream, and to give the trout ample op­ lUal. Sometime check the flies used in the portunity to sieze it. This may or may not Prize winning fish contests; the number of Clip off a number of long white hairs from large trout taken on these lures will prove be the best way to do it, but the occasion is the tip of a deer's tail; place the butt of this rare when I lose a fish throat, short striking. astounding. There is something about the tuft near the bend cf the hook, so that the hucktail—probably the lifelike crawling In general, bucktails ar • fished near the hair is uniformly distributed about the shank, top of the water, abom six inches or so Motion of the hair as it is being worked then lash lightly in place. Don't exert any through the water—that proves irresistible to pressure on the tying silk at this stag' until underneath the surface, yet at times it is wout. They will come for it again and again, the butts are bound down; if you do th(; tiair necessary to go deeper, especially when the s° often in fact, that one wonders if the fish will buckle up and form an unsightly bu ge. trout are hovering near the bottom. For Can be put down; and this applies not only Now secure the hair in position with a num­ ordinary conditions, a split shot sinker size to old lunkers, but small trout as well. ber of firm turns, see Fig. 1. BB attached to the leader directly above the hook will suffice. If you tie your own, the Large brown trout feed mostly at night, With the butts of these hairs securely hooks cai: first be weighted with lead fuse 0r immediately after a rain which raises the lashed in place, wind the tying silk up near wire befort. the fly is constructed—on the Creek to a higher level. The reason for this the eye of the hook where it should be left whole a much better arrangement. Having ls more or less obvious, for under the pro­ hanging with hackles pliers attached. lost a considerable number of large trout tective mantle of darkness or discolored Now take the long hair in the rear, bend fishing bucktails with light gut, I now use water, the inherently shy brown trout boldly s it forward, and secure firmly in position im­ nothing lighter than IX, preferably heavier. ets forth on his foraging trips, secure in the mediately back of the eye. Fig. 2 represents One never knows when he will tie into an Knowledge that his movements are unobserv- the fly at this stage. old lunker, and why take chances on losing e

RRR«K

P.M.C.ARMSTRONGt

^TflR-^7^

AVE you ever made a quick job of pack­ It is as strong, gauge for gauge, as the It wants to lie out straight, and does so- H ing, and driven like all h— to get out best Spanish gut, often stronger, even when No clock-springs. Just run it through your to get the evening fishing? Oh, sure. the gut is perfectly fresh. When the gut is at fingers a little. Maybe you got there just as the sun was all old, nylon is much stronger. Isn't that enough? All right, here's some going down, and saw a dimple, or two, or It is perfectly round and true to gauge more. three, where the trout were working on a from end to end (yes, honest), graded in It doesn't get rotten without warning and hatch of flies, strung up your rod in nothing even thousandths of an inch, and comes in drive you crazy. Water doesn't hurt ifl flat, raced into your waders, presto, and twenty-two inch lengths. Neither does careless handling, within rea- then with that awful sinking feeling in Sound pretty good? Well, that isn't all. son. It will keep practically forever. the pit of your stomach realized that you hadn't remembered to soak any leaders. You You can take a nylon leader right out of Want another? Aren't you convinced yet' and me both, pal. the envelope and fish with it, just like that. Well look at this one. No waiting for it to soak up. Even if you If you are going out again tonight, or to­ Then maybe you got out a dry leader, and do it takes up practically no water. You tie morrow, or next week, don't bother to re- hoped you might be able to make some kind it dry. Think of that. To be sure, it is a bit move the leader from the line. Just win" of cast with the confounded clock-spring the more difficult to tie securely than Spanish it up on the reel with the line. No, it won'1 caterpillars' inside had made, and uttered gut, but you soon get the hang of it. You get stiff and coily. You can just pull i futile opinions of the dam' thing which would have to avoid certain knots, and all knots through your fingers once or twice, and gc have made a mule-skinner blush with envy. must be tied as tightly as possible, but, after right ahead fishing. Even leave the fly of Don't look so guilty, bo. We all belong. all, they should be anyway. Watch your if you like and can get it through the guides knots. 1 Did you ever have a fish break off a couple It is the answer to the angler's ferven of feet of that expensive tapered leader, and prayers, this nylon. All we have to pay 0 then find that you hadn't put any spare tip­ STAGES IN TYING THE "WEMYSS" OR "FIGURE OF all of these blessings is a bit more care f EIGHT"KNOT B* THE DIRECT METHOD, BEST 1 pets in the leader box? Had to fish with a WAY E0R GUT .01? AND UP. tying the knots and in making sure they at leader far too heavy for so bright a day properly jammed. It doesn't bother olc while you waited for some fine gut to get timers much who know their knots, but sorfl| well wetted up? Oh, yes; me too! of the fraternity who are not so "knot-wise have reported difficulty. But I can assurf Did you ever find that those nice 3x tippets you that if you use the right knots, an1' Joe gave you last summer had about as much START THE SAME AS FOR A"SHEET BEND. tie them tight, you will have far less troubl' strength as a moonbeam, so that you lost flies with terminal tackle failure than wii by the dozen, to say nothmg of fish, just be­ Spanish gut. cause the gut was old and weak? Sure, I The manufacturers of nylon have had pre' know all about it. I'm Scotch too. Drawn c gut costs money, and we can't afford to throw pared a booklet telling how to tie some goo it away. We have to take a chance, even © angler's knots, and will mail it to you 0$ 00 NOT DRAW TIGHT. BUT CARRY THE END OF THE f though we know it doesn't keep any too well. TIPPET OVER THE LEADER. ANO. FOLLOWING THE ARROW request.* It is good dope for any angler t have, whether he is a user of nylon or no' But we don't have to waste any more valu­ But once he does try it he probably ivill 9 able profanity on the doggone stuff now. Not a user. unless we are hog-tied by convention. Modern My own experience convinced me of th>; chemistry has come to the rescue, and has For several trips, while making field exper1 accomplished what Mr. Caterpillar's innards ments with the material, I used nylon e*' never could do. Leader material is now avail­ clusively, and was conscious of no particul9' able which is so far superior to Mr. Cater­ difference in holding qualities. But by chanc' pillar's best efforts that it is almost a miracle. I substituted a drawn gut tapered tippet, affl Mr. DuPont's clever chemists have done the IT WILL THEN LOOK LIKE THIS. PULLING ON THE LEADER JAWS THE KNOT. it had me frantic with the comparative eaSs trick. They call it — well never mind what with which I broke off flies, until I learn6 the chemists tag it — commercially it's nylon. to treat it more gently. Until someone el5' Believe it or not, Bob, here's what it can comes along with a material still bette' boast. THE FINISHED"WEMYSS"KN0T nylon leaders will have the call with me. Y 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 5

red to as the "Turle," is one of those recom­ "BLOOD NOOSE" OR "TWO FOLD RUNNING KNOT- mended by the manufacturers of nylon, there SIMILAR TO THE"TURTLE"KNOT. BUT MORE SECURE. has been some complaint that this knot does not hold. If tied tightly the "Turle" should hold well, but for anglers who lean toward ™E FISHERMAN'S BEND."THE OLDEST AND BEST this type of knot, that is a running knot or KNOT FOR AND PURPOSE WHERE SECURITY IS THE P noose around the shank of the hook, there is RINCIPAL FACTOR. MAY BE'STOPPED" I N SEVERAL WAYS. a better one, which will never slip with any type of material. Similar to the "Turle" is the "Blood Noose," which is a running knot formed by tying a "Two Fold Overhand Knot," or "Blood Knot," around the standing part, and then slipping it over the hook and around the shank in

Th^T BEND'"0R JAU HITCH AS A HOOK KNOT the same way that is used in tying the n'5 KNOT SHOULD NOT BE USED WITH GUT SUBSTITUTES. "Turle." Figure VI, 1, shows the easiest way of forming this noose. After running the gut through the eye of the hook make a double loop at the end (Loop a). Now form a second loop at b, and thrust Loop b through Loop a in the direc­ tion of the arrow. When this is drawn tight it takes the form shown in Figure VI, 2, and the loop is passed over the hook in the usual way to complete the knot. STEVEDORE KNOT."MAY EITHER 8E SLIPPED OVER THE EYE OR JAMMED OUTSIDE. QUICK AND EASY. In the course of experimenting with nylon, and trying out almost every knot known to Pull it up tight. That's all there's to it. man, it was discovered that the knot known Easy as getting a traffic ticket. to sailors as the "Snubbing Hitch" would It is like half of the knot customarily used hold beautifully with nylon, or any other in tying lengths of gut together, and just material, with all gauges of tippet from .005 as secure. Try it. up, and with any kind of hook, swivel or In a later article we hope to show how ring. While this knot is not entirely un­ anglers may design and tie up their own known to anglers, and may even have been leaders, and describe the best knots to use published, unknown to me, I feel quite sure for this purpose. Now that there is avail­ that the method of tying which I have dis­ able a reliable domestic source of leader ma­ DOUBLE STEVEDORE." SUITABLE FOR RINGED HOOKS covered is entirely new, and is so simple that terial at a price within reason, it is expected it is surprising that it has not been given that many more anglers will be impelled to You will find the knots shown in the publicity before. I like this knot so well "roll their own." ^ylon book satisfactory, as well as many that I am surrendering to vanity and label­ Here is one item of fishing tackle for which °thers. But some of the most popular knots ing it with my own name, with the readers' we no longer have to turn to Europe for ^ith anglers will not work well, and may approval, I hope. our supply. American made rods, lines and !J'P- For instance, the well known "Sheet To tie the "Armstrong" Knot, push two or reels have already surpassed in quality and °end", also known as the "Jam Hitch" and three inches of the leader through the eye largely displaced imported makes. It seems °y several other names, will not hold with of the hook and double it back along the probable that American made leader ma­ nylon. (Figure I.) So avoid its use. In leader. Now twist the fly in the fingers until terials is about to do so likewise. General, knots in which the friction is nylon the leader is coiled about itself several times. to In addition to nylon there has recently nylon will hold, but where most of the The exact number is immaterial, but at least come on the market another synthetic leader three complete turns of the fly should be Miction is around the neck of the hook it material, a product of the Dow Chemical WiU not hold. made. Four is better. Then slip the end of the gut through between the two parts of the Company, made from Venilidine Chloride, A very easy knot to tie, and which will twisted leader, next to the eye of the hook. and sold commercially as "VEC." While this k°ld with any kind of material is the "Steve­ (Continued on Page 24) dore," sometimes called the "Double Figure °* Eight" (Figure II.) It may be slipped over ARMSTRONG KNOT. THE EASIEST KNOT FOR ALL KINDS the eye of the hook, or merely jammed OF GUT, AND SECURE IN ALL SIZES WITH. ANY KIND OF a Sainst the eye. It will hold well either way. EYED HOOK OR RINGED LURE. Eor use with a ringed hook or swivel, the °nes shown in the nylon book are good. An­ other excellent knot is the "Double Steve­ dore" (Figure III.) Best of all with a swivel ls the "Fisherman's Bend," (Figure IV) which ls one of the oldest of knots, and used for rn°re purposes, in all probability, than any other knot except the almost universal "Sheet Bend." The nylon book shows one method of tying thie Well known "Wemyss Knot" or "Figure 0f Eight." This method is excellent for fine gauges, but where heavier gut or nylon is Used it does not work as well. The direct ^thod of tying (Figure V, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5) ls easier with heavy gut. This applies to all gauges above lx or .011 inch. Incidentally, never use the "Figure of Eight" on a bare ??°k, particularly with gut substitutes of any nd, as it will almost surely slip. Although the well known "Major Turle's ye<3 Fly Knot," usually more briefly refer- PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY "DOG DAY" PLUGGING Sultry August Days Seem to Affect Game Fish as Well as Fishermen By ALEX P. SWEIGART

UGUST, as a fishing month, has long stretch of a deep pool the swirling of two A proved a bugaboo to the angler. During big smallmouth bass on the feed. At the the "dog days", as they are appropriately time, we confess without shame, we were termed, a sweltering sun combines with fre­ using live bait, stone catfish, but nary a quently low water in many of our bass strike was had from either fish. Next morn­ streams to force prevailing water tempera­ ing, during the period v. hen the first tinges tures into high brackets well over the 80 of daylight had appeared over the ridge in mark. Of the warm water game fishes ap­ the background, the pool was again ap­ parently most affected by this condition, the proached. A cast with the smallest "stone common chain pickerel often found in bass cattie" in the bait bucket had hardly touched streams takes top rank. Soreness of the jaws the surface that August morning when a and loosening of its sharp fangs contribute to its lack of interest in plugs and other arti­ bulging swirl appeared and the line started ficials, although occasionally pickerel may be moving sedately, slowly, upstream. A pause, teased into striking even during August. start and the hook was set into the upper Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass and wall­ mandible of the gamest smallmouth we have eyed pike, however, while definitely at the ever hooked. The big fish failed to break most sluggish period in their mid-season water, but its underwater lunges stripped the foraging, may yield fair sport if certain line from the reel at will. How long tht; elemental factors relative to their environ­ battle lasted is not to be reckoned in minutes. ment are taken into consideration. It is to The fact remains that after the big small­ be emphasized that stream fishing is the sub­ mouth, slightly under 20 inches in length and ject of this article. The largemouth bass, tipping the scales at W2 pounds, was finally primarily a pond and lake fish although rolled into the shallows it lived but a few occurring more frequently in recent years minutes in the live net. in weedy sections Oi central Pennsylvania streams, will be foui •'• to furnish better sport The grand old Conodoguinet Creek in in lakes at night, p;.i i xularly during August Cumberland County furnished an even more periods of the dark of the moon. dramatic incident about four years ago, this time on the plug casting outfit. It was dusk Now, back with the smallmouth bass and of a sultry day in mid-August, and we had wall-eyed pike of central county waters. fished over about a mile of stream without There's a trite old saying "The early bird a strike. Finally, when dusk had fallen to catches the worm" that can be most profit­ the extent that merely the tip of the casting ably observed by plug fishermen during rod could be seen, a cast was placed across sultry August weather. Late evening fishing, a deep ledge channel. Midway in the re­ particularly that period of one hour before trieve of the plug, a jolting strike almost Anthony Surdock of Pittston took this 3Vz pound dusk, is to be ranked on a par with plugging tore the casting rod from hand, and an smallmouth bass in the North Branch of the Susque­ instant later, a mammoth smallmouth swirled hanna River last season. An artificial scored the during the hour in the morning immediately catch. following break of day. Both periods bring on the surface, its broad tail slapping as it back thrilling memories of days astream. turned. Literally, we froze to the reel handle Years ago, on the Tuscarora Creek, the writer and a moment later bass, plug and about 8 August fishing last summer on central had observed one evening in the lower feet of leader left for parts unknown. streams revealed several facts that may ot may not have bearing on this phase of the season sport. Drought and extreme heat pre­ vailing virtually all month furnished as near maximum unfavorable conditions as havej been encountered to date on streams fished- Thermometer readings revealed water tem- peratures ranging from 79 to 89 degrees Fahrenheit. That Time Element It would be verging on the ridiculous to specify anything like definite times of day during August when a maximum amount of action might be expected from our stream smallmouth bass and wall-eyed pike. The bass in its foraging is every bit as tempera­ mental as the trout, switching quickly from one type of forage to another. Wallowing in to shoreline shallows in quest of shiners that skip in silver flashes over the water surface in the morning, his highness, Dolomieu, by"! dusk may be nosing about the bottom rocks and ledges in quest of stone catfish, helgra- mite or crayfish. It goes without saying that artificial casting lures are most effective dui" ing active feeding periods of the bass, al­ though we have known occasions when the J-'islliiJR artificials, Mr. ami Mrs. fieorpe Renoe and B. navies, ail of Wilkes-Barre, scored this splendid catch of Lake Wallenpaupack largemouth bass last season, mottled kings struck seemingly out of pure 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER cussedness. Be that as it may, the observant angler should try to note scattered minnow schools as a fairly good indication that action is in the offing. Returning to observations made last August, best action periods were found to be ln the hour preceding dusk. Runner-up sport was had in the two hours following day­ break, and on two occasions, the light lures ttiet with enthusiastic reception from the bass at mid-day. There's an appeal to early morn- lr>g fishing during mid-summer that sets it aPart from other periods of the day. Mist rising from the water and awakening bird uie along the shoreline apparently adds an 'nimitable tii:ge. Incidentally, waters tried Were Tuscarora Creek, in Juniata County, Sherman's Creek, Perry County, the lower Juniata River and the Conodoguinet Creek ln Cumberland County.

Picking Your Water An invaluable aid to the mid-summer fisher- °*aa is the stream thermometer. Tempera­ ture readings, we believe, are truly worth­ while in determining promising areas in streams. Temperature tests in riffles, flats Paul Boeckel pulls into dock on the lower Susquehanna with the largest bass he caught lust year, a and deep pools afford a fairly accurate pic­ 22 inch largemouth weighing 5 pounds 8 ounces. The catch was scored on plug. ture as to where bass are lurking when stream temperatures generally are in the °0's. Frequently, springs crop up in the of sport. It will be found in early morning, find that gradually greater depth prevails, stream bed-and where such pools are located, however, that bass and other game fishes and it may be that a thermometer checkup 11 is wise to concentrate plugging activities may often be cruising about the shallows in will reveal a spring rising from the stream uuring the heat of the day with deep riding quest of food. Frequently, too, especially bed in the vicinity of the ledges. Recalling 'Ures. After all, fish are not unlike humans when the stream is low, spots at the bases its location may serve in good stead some when it comes to extreme heat and the of riffles, usually carrying good aeration, are day around the noon hour in plugging this c°olest spots in a stream are often productive well worth trying. flat. Now, in fishing this open and deeper water, a light floating wobbler type plug It may sound like stretching the point, but that darts perhaps one to two feet below the careful checking of the shoreline may also surface will be ideal. These three lures yield plugging dividends. Observe where should fit into the situation nicely, with spring feeders merge with the main stream. deeper running, sinking wobbler type plugs Very often, these feeders may be only trickles for occasionally deep pools in which wall­ from deep seated springs along the shore, but eyed pike may be encountered. Having men­ where the cooling water from such springs tioned wall-eyed pike, it is well to recall in seeps into shoreline pockets immediately be­ taking these fish in streams that very often low is often ideal territory in which good the eddy formed at the base of a deep riffle bass may lurk. Occasionally on our central may harbor a school of them. Letting the creeks, trout streams have their juncture and sinking plug zig-zag well into the depths the cooling water from these feeders is and retrieving very slowly is excellent pro­ favored by good fish. cedure here. If pickerel occur in the stream, When it comes to lure selection in fishing plug weed pockets along the shoreline care­ a given area, let depth of water and presence fully and never neglect splatterdock fringed of an abundance (or lack) of aquatic vegeta­ pockets so apparently favored by the pick­ tion help to determine your choice. Let us erel. assume that you have approached a wide flat in the stream, ranging from a depth of per­ August is notably a thunderstorm month haps a foot at the lower extremity to four and should one of these storms break on the feet at its extreme depth. The bottom, let watershed of the stream you happen to be us say, is a mixture of rock, pebbles and near fishing, unusual sport may very often be the upper end, sheer rock ledges. The lower had when the water is first becoming milky end of the flat has a dense growth of vegeta­ or cloudy. Smallmouth bass are notably clear tion, this vegetation jutting out into the or clearing water feeders and it may be in­ stream channel from both shores from 5 to stinct that prompts them to renewed activity 15 feet. Deepest part of the flat is imme­ at such times. diately below the rock ledge formation at Under low, clear water conditions prevail­ the riffle base. Assuming that light lures, ing generally at this time, avoidance to the weighing from one-quarter to one-half ounce, greatest extent possible of wading in smaller are being used, our first concern will be to streams is advisable. When wading is re­ choose a lure as weedless as possible for sorted to, extreme care should be the rule. fishing the weed pockets in which occasional Then, too, use of a long leader of synthetic good bass or pickerel may be lurking. A gut, 10 or 15 pounds test, and from 8 to 12 weedless spoon, weighing one-quarter ounce, feet in length is a good bet. should fit into the picture nicely here for a This "dog day" fishing has another angle, starter. Still shallow water upstream from the weed bed and more open water may call applying to artificial users and liVe bait fish­ for a straight running lure, with a propeller ermen alike. If there is one thing that sickens, at one end (or propellers at both ends). a dyed-in-wool bass fisherman it is to Fairly rapid retrieve of this type of lure will have a fine two or three pound game fish spoil before he gets it home that night. And A serve to keep it well off the bottom in ex­ 1, ?cale finish plug took this 18% inch smallmouth spoil it will, unless reasonable precautions. 1,1 season for Britt Butler of Robertsdale in the tremely shallow water. Moving upstream, we Raystown Branch. (Continued on Page 23) PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY BROWNS, BRUNETTES AND BROOKIES By E. LLOYD KING

NCE in the not so long ago, the writer barrier impatiently standing before the Draping some garden hackle on the big O offered an article somewhat in similar promise of another season, a time to while bass hook, your narrator started upstream, vein as the present. In adaition to the good away groping through badly thumbed cata­ accompanied by the urchin and a wild look­ natured jibes on the part of an acquaintance logues and the like, a prison and experiences ing adult who had just dropped around to or so, a day or two later a raucous raspberry in reverie and sometimes to be escaped in investigate the commotion. Both were em­ arrived in the guise of a telegram reading: part by laboriously typing out the living past phatic the trout were big, wild and rough, and "Just what I've always told you. Let the in some such tale as this. anxious, Oh! so anxious, to accommodate wife and kiddie do the fishing. You're too equally anxious fishermen. Good advice was good a bait snatcher to waste time wearing So humbly begging your indulgence, this fisherman submits another little collection of forthcoming in a never ending torrent. My out flies." It was from an old friend down volunteer guides said to let the quiet pools Delaware way, a cynic who knows only too true life interludes, which to some may seem alone, the riffles were the place; besides well that this fisherman is now and for some a bit amusing—however, let me assure you there were too many roots in the pools any­ time has been an ultra strict fly rod purist, the incidents were anything but funny at the way and a big one would only tangle up the although there was the day I dunked winged, time. line. Entirely too considerate of the big one. crawling and swimming creatures into the drink with right reckless abandon. Mountain Madness Believe it or not, a couple hundred yards above a bridge supposedly marking the dead­ It is always hard to live down the past, Now I'll never forget my first trip for trout. To secure worms I drove 37 miles and back, line of stocking activities, there was a flash but fishing is in the blood, a heritage from a on the riffle and a brownie tumbled out on wonderful Dad of the long, long ego, a Dad just a nice little 74 miles round trip. Then ten more miles to the stream in the moun­ the sandbar. Not having a ruler, my guides who took his little shaver along as a pal were asked to estimate the length of the even when the lad could only have been a tains of Dauphin County. victim. Both were unanimous "Too small", nuisance and a handicap. That lad has long Then the fun began. Never before having but it looked a good 8 or 9 inches long to the since grown to manhood and to him fishing fished for trout or even having seen a real disappointed me. So back he went. is living, almost life itself. A world without live specimen, the small turbulent stream did fishing would offer an empty horizon indeed. not look inviting. However, the inevitable Ten or fifteen minutes later, there was Six months of the year your correspondent companion insisted there were trout aplenty. another swirl and a brookies just about as angles at every possible moment, just for the He helped to put them in. A ten year old big flopped on the gravel. Vehemently and sheer joy of fishing and often it seems of urchin corroborated the statement. My good solemnly the chorus from the bank decreed: little import whether finny warriors strike pal, tried and true, said, "You go upstream; "Just a little one!" Another free fish. or not. Each succeeding year seems to in­ I'll go down" and then disappeared into the A few minutes more and the same old tensify an ever growing reluctance to kill wilderness. I was on my own and how, and story; another brownie flashed in the riffle any fish. Winter is just the interlude be­ further suspected with bitter anguish there and came out on dry land to look things over. tween two fishing seasons, a nameless, fear­ were more trout down than up, otherwise Sadly my mountain friends shook their heads: ful, threatening something in the way, a why did my friend go that way? "Hard luck, Old Pal. No Go!" This was becoming discouraging, so 1 headed down toward my friend below the bridge, my human measuring sticks still trail­ ing along amid the thicket on the bank. On the way down, another brownie fell victim to the amateur's worm; just a trifle larger than the other three. There was a gleeful shout from the bush: "Just a leetle small!" Sadly the line was reeled in and your corres­ pondent sought the solace of his boon com­ panion. Making contact I found he had a trout. "That's too small" yelled I. "You're crazy," sez he, "that fish is almost 9 inches long. Wanta See?" His rule said yes too. A couple simple, homey mountain boys had just outslicked a city slicker; but perhaps they were conservationists. Just to make the episode a little mite more intriguing, I met up with the pair later that day. Then they were fishing- They were working the same shallows I had traversed in the morning and had eight or ten trout, nary a one biggs-r than those released by the old bass fisherman. It is never wise to say what one thinks, especially when outnumbered by a couple o° chummy mountain boys, but I'll swear I recognized the glint in some of those finny eyes; blamed if they weren't almost to a certainty the same ones I had caught and let go several hours previously. Shades of Alfarata About once a season, friend wife, an ex­ cellent fly rod sharpshooter, may be counted upon to singe this angler's face good and red in the piscatorial wars. And how she loves it; how the salt is poured on and then rubbed 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER ln whenever a listener may be found, which other, he had to tire and finally came to net. tiniest of mountain brooks, raising up be­ rnost often is just a bit too frequent. And then sweetly, Oh! so sweetly! "I'm sorry hind the house, circling down a tortuous briar Now this fisherman has never been a hard I caught both of them, hubby. Too bad you and thicket laden course, around the garden, luck boy when it comes to size. He takes couldn't have gotten one or the other. But I past the stableyard, near the sweet corn as many fish on the fly rod perhaps as the do believe they are bigger than any you patch, then meandering through rock stud­ average fisherman—tho usually if he out- caught so far this season, or last, or even ded, vine fringed pools amid the toweling scores a companion, the other fellow will the season before that". hemlocks, scrub oak and deer laurel toward turn up with the biggest fish when day is Now never trust a woman, especially a fly the main stream some three or four miles done. Your narrator may have three or four fishing femme who is out to out-do you in away. At no spot is the tricklet so wide a swell specimens, the other only one, but that your chosen element. For further orated she: man can not leap across easily; some places °he is sure to go just a quarter, a half, or a "Henceforth and forever, this will always be the flow of water is perhaps only a foot in width and not over six inches deep on the whole inch larger. my own private pool. Keep your big nose riffles. The tiny pools, usually about stumps, outta it. And don't forget!" One day last season on the Juniata comes with myriads of roots, vary from twelve to to mind. The family in unison was investi­ A week or so later, after a pelting shower perhaps twenty-four inches in depth, hardly gating a narrow shelf of ledges, and the Bet­ had driven the two femmes to the car parked ever larger in diameter tha.i the usual small ter Half insisted upon going out into the out of sight behind some brush, I sneaked a family dinner table top. fiver just a bit farther than looked safe to whirl at the pocket. A jolting strike greeted the old man in fact, she was standing well almost the initial cast and your narrator had Digging a few worms in the barnyard, a over waist deep some three-quarters toward snagged into one just about as big, maybe native mountain boy and your correspondent the far shore in fast, surging rough water even a wee mite larger than the Better Half's sallied forth, going right to the head spring *ith a rocky, slippery bottom. Once she pair, and you should have heard the comment a few rods behind the house, the lad in a had fallen, but luckily scrambled to her feet as my prize was sheepishly displayed. No matter of fact tone assuring this skeptic: Without trouble. I wasn't doing much fish- it wasn't sunburn on my neck next morning; "There'll be a half dozen trout in our creels lng; I was just hovering about in the back­ just the place that verbal dynamite made before we hit that culvert over yonder", a ground as an unwilling and unwanted life­ contact. Old Lady Luck never smiles on me. scant three hundred yards downstream. guard. Naively he said: "What are you . tying that Native Brookies leader on your line for? Forget it, all you Furthermore, the little nine year old "Never judge a book by its cover" said need is a hook". Incidentally his hook, a daughter was busily fly tossing in the pools snelled No. 4 at least, was tied directly on lear where we had entered at the now dis­ some humespun wit once upon a time. How true; how true! Fishermen might well apply the end of a piece of Aunt Lydia's linen tant shore beside the William Penn Highway, thread, which served as a line. Not so this a the same axiom to trout streams, as I've since Wee bit too far away for one so young fisherman; he tied on at least ten feet of ev painfully learned. Perhaps it should be: en in shallow water. The masculine one- flimsy catguet—catgut that later met up and "Never judge a trout stream by its trickle". third of the household wished that the senior tangled enthusiastically with every blamed feminine one-third would retrace her steps, There came the time this fisherman was bramble, root, rock, grape vine and what hut you know how it is with females. If only invited to visit a friend's farm where trout not on that stream. For every minute I spent it were good manners and polite to give them grow wild, free and native, unfettered by fishing, about five minutes were consumed in a good shaking down now and then—well, stocking or other human ideologies, at least untangling. y°u married guys know how it is. that is what they told me. First inspection (Continued on Page 19) She liked it out there and emphatically said of the stream was not reassuring. It is the s°- Besides sez she: "I know you. This is the "est place. You wouldn't be out here if the fish weren't". And that was that! Again she shpped and plunged in over her head. Strategy wherefore art thou? White lies or not, something had to be done. So working closer, says I in my best awe-struck tone: Say, did you see that big one jumping in there close to Junie for the last fifteen min­ utes?" "No", ever so sweetly, "and neither d'd you". Then my little nine year old pal, «ver a daddy girl, rose to the occasion. "Yes, Mother", called she, "He's jumping and he's a^ful big". And now mother was in a quan- dry; she felt sure we were fibbing, but maybe n°t> just maybe. Dubiously she looked toward the kiddie, and blamed if just at that moment aidn't a nice one plop after a dragon fly not a hundred feet from shore. Nothing more was necessary, the missus as on her way. Ten minutes later she Celled; "I got him" and Old Dame Fortune started to kick me in the pants. There was ? Wild, churning commotion going on over here on that ledge, and it was hard to say Whether she "had him" or he had her. From a couple hundred yards away, the battle ^emed a draw, and it wasn't easy to de­ ter:min e who was doing the most threshing, kiekin g and splashing around, fish or fisher. ien minutes or more 01 mis, and old Microp- 6rus Dolomieu, still sullenly fighting, was lagged to the net. Just about five minutes later, another wild, "fill feminine whoop: "I got him" and "got 1rJ* 1" she had, even bigger than the last. hat a show that old baby put on; time and Sain she dragged him in amid a churning **wl of foam; time and again he turned and hu:frie d right away from there. But like the 1! 10 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY

Question: Of our so-called protected game Question: How is the Roval Coachman as a fish, which ones u-ere native to Pennsylvania bass fly?—J.R. waters?—J.W JR.. Answer: One of the best. Fished behind Answer: Just three, the eastern chain a 1/0 or 2/0 spinner it is a mighty effective pickerel, the Chautauqua muskellunge, and pattern for stream smallmouths. Hook sizes the charr or brook trout. Records indicate 2 to 4 are good. that the smallmouth bass was first stocked in waters east of the Allegheny mountains in 1863, a group of Philadelphia sportsmen Question: Decs the Fish Laze class the ter­ I wuz afishin' fer bass down by the red being responsible for the first planting which rapin as a turtle?—M.R.G. rock t'uther day an' they jest wuzn't hittin' was made in the Delaware River. Early nohow, so I sez to myself, reckon yuh mite records indicate that the bass also was Answer: The terrapin or red leg, which ez well try it fer sunnies, rock bass an' fall native to Lake Erie and catches of this game has a rather limited range in central and fish. Well sir, they wuz a hayfield handy an' fish were made in the vicinity of Erie in south central Pennsylvania, is classified as a it didn't taik long afore I ketched me a prime the early part of the nineteenth century. terrapin and not as a turtle under the Fish bunch of yeller bodied grasshoppers, mitey The wall-eyed pike or Susquehanna salmon Law. The season in which the species may gude bait. An' then by heck, I hed a real as it is commonly termed in many sections be legally taken runs from November 2 to circus fer a while. Them sunnies in the flat of Pennsylvania is believed to have been March 14, Sunday excepted. No size limit at the down end jest went plum nuts over first stocked in the Chemung River, New is specified, the daily limit is five terrapin, them hoppers, an' I ketched half a dozen, York State, by a Jesuit priest and an Eng­ and the season limit fifty. Both dates in keepin' the two biggest thet wuz erbout 8 lishman about 1800. From the original plant­ the season are inclusive. inches long apiece. Then they wuz a ol' ing in the Chemung, the fish rapidly spread stump along the bank o' the crick thet alius southward in the Susquehanna River. The hed a gude bunch o' rock bass erbout it, an' rainbow trout is believed to have been first Question: In zchat year ivas the first Penn­ them fellers wuz jest ez keen fer my hoppers brought in from the Pacific Slope around sylvania fisliing license issued?—K.R. ez the sunnies hed bin. Durned ef I didn't 1879 and the brown trout from the original Answer: 1922. ketch a rockie a leetle better'n 9 inches long, shipment from Germany was first received a fish no feller needs ter mind puttin' on the at the Corry hatchery in Erie County in string. 1886. Question: In taking suckers or chubs to be Rite below the fiat, they's a good strong used as bait may a net be used?—F.A.G. deep riffle thet cums inter a swirl, an' a Answer: Suckers and chubs are classified furst rate place for fallfish. They hit the Question: Where can I get a good practical under the Fish Law as game fish, and it is hoppers like all git out an' I ketched 5 book or pamphlet on stream improvement?— specified that in taking game fish, hook and keepin' the biggest fish, erbout 15 inches E.T. line must be used. long. Shure wuz fun while them fish wuz hittin' almost as much ez ef the bass hed Answer: "Method for the Improvement of been hittin'. Fer fellers thet want sum fun Michigan Trout Streams", a bulletin pre­ on days like this, it's a gude thing not ter pared for the Michigan Department of Con­ Question: When does the so-called eel )'«" turn up the nose at sunnies an' sech like. servation by the Institute of Fisheries Re­ occur? Do eels have scales?—B.W'. They're rite gamey leetle cusses an' atter search, University of Michigan, is one of the finest treatises on trout stream improvement Answer: Eel wall fishermen usually anti­ all. a lot o' us fisher fellers is still kids at cipate a heavy run of the species in the fall hart. that has come to our attention. It was pre­ pared jointly by Garl L. Hubbs, John R. "when the leaves are heavy on the water", Seed a yung feller fishin' with one o' them Greeley and Clarence M. Tarzwell of the and coincident with a rather sharp raise in fly rods and leetle spinners in the crick fer Institute Staff. While Michigan trout streams water levels. Usually, this time is about sunnies an' fallfish one day last year an' differ somewhat from most Pennsylvania October. To all appearances, running eels doggoned ef he wuzn't goin' ter town fer trout waters in that they are low banked as seem to roll with the current and at times fare. Seemed like every time he'd drop thet contrasted to our high banked streams, many when the run is at its peak, the racks have spinner an' fly in most enny spot he'd pick of the devices illustrated and explained in been known to overflow in a single night- he'd hev sumthin' on. He sed he wuz usin' this bulletin prove very practical for stream Eels are known as Catadromous fish, fish that a leetle 4/0 colorady spinner an' a yeller fly improvement work here. run from fresh to salt water to spawn, and tied on a number 6 hook. Then he tried a the spawning site for both the American and leetle floatin' bug he hed an' durned ef the European species has been definitely placed sunnies didn't hit thet too. Question: Is a license necessary in limiting in the Carribbean Sea. After the adult eels snapping turtles?—F.D. have spawned, they die and the young start their long return journey to fresh water. W Answer: While the Fish Law makes no is thought that the sexual organs in the Park Campbell of Millersburg reports an provision for devices in taking snapping adult eels develop after they have entered exceptionally fine trout catch from the Big turtles, nothing can be used in the way of salt water, and that only about one out of Spring in Cumberland County. John Rum- devices in our inland waters except two rods, every ten eels in our streams ever feels the felt, Millersburg fly tyer, landed a beautifully two lines and one handline, with not more spawning urge. Eels have microscopic scales J proportioned and well-marked rainbow trout than three hooks attached to each line and deeply embedded in the skin. In order to \ measuring 19% inches in length. This is the the fisherman must be present when using run an eel wall, a special license is issued to < largest trout reported to the ANGLER from same. Hook and line fishing requires that the operator by the Department of Revenue that stream during the present season. the fisherman must have a license. at a charge of one dollar. 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 11

MIDDLE ATLANTIC N^ ASSOCIATION OF CASTING CLUBS ~~'' _/ln association ofsporismeni clubs formedtopromofce- — tournament eastmg,encourao;e organization amoncj anqJers arsist in. conservation;and support all moves toward true sportsmanship.

CEVERAL thousand spectators crowded State Fish and Game Association with fifteen *" around the beautiful lake at Willow points to their credit out of a possible thirty- Grove Park to view the events of the third six. Their closest contestant was the Dover ar»nual championship casting tournament on Fishing Club whose casters took over every­ Sunday, June 9th. For the first time at any m thing in the surf casting events for a total of ajor tournament surf, fly and plug events twelve points. The Lower Merion Rod and were run off simultaneously and some of the firi Gun Club, Inc., gave the best exhibition of est amateur casters in the East partici­ good all around casting by taking prizes in pated. every one of the six main events. °ne hundred and fifty casters representing Individual honors of the day went to Ralph 'hirteen casting clubs, all member clubs of Bowman of the Dover Fishing Club with a 'he Middle Atlantic Association, furnished s total accumulation of six points, the most ome very keen competition. The Willow won by any single caster. Grove Park trophy offered bry the park Management to the club amassing the great- The outstanding spectacle of the tourna­ est number of points in all of the events fur­ ment happened on the surf casting court, bished an incentive that kept every caster adjacent to the lake, when Ralph Bowman °n edge. put every ounce of muscle at his command Carl I,eisy of Mantau, N. J., ardent plug caster in back of a heave that sent the four ounce with the 8 pound largemouth bass he took on a The trophy, a large walnut plaque over lure last season. He is a member of the Gloucester lead out 578 feet 10 inches from the base County Game and Fish Association. two feet in height, displayed a solid silver line. This broke all existing Eastern records shield with an inscription of the tournament, a by 8 ft. 10 in., and the Middle Atlantic record bove which stood a plug caster in action, by over 48 feet. Bowman also made an Bronze championship medals were awarded ^his plaque was won by the Pennsylvania average of 548 feet for the day's casting to the high man in each of the above events which is also a new high. and over seventy beautiful merchandise Another feature of the tournament was the prizes were awarded by the percentage sys­ casting of Harold G. Lentz who back in 1922 tem of handicapping. set a world's record in surf casting with 465 feet. At this tournament, just eighteen years later, he was casting even better with a toss Branch Valley Fish, Game and Forestry of 468 feet, 11 inches. Casting must be the Association secret of eternal youth. Raymond Betts, of Perkasie, represented Although the casting was consistent in the the Branch Valley Fish, Game and Forestry fly and plug events there were no outstand­ Association among the winners at the Mid­ ing casts made or any records broken. This dle Atlantic Association of Casting Clubs is probably due to the restrictions placed on (Continued on Page 20) equipment by the rules committee by out­ lawing special light tackle such as is always used by the expert tournament caster and frequently by the finished angler who com­ bines the ultimate in sportsmanship with his fishing. An example of this was the %-ounce plug distance event that was won by B. Berlinger with a cast of 193 feet 6 inches. In making this cast he was compelled by the rules to use a nine pound test line, the same test line that is used by the surf caster in tossing a four ounce lead over 500 feet. Had a light weight tournament line been permitted in this event, Mr. Berlinger would undoubtedly have added 100 feet to his cast. This would have added a little big league color to the event. The results in the six principle events of the tournament were as follows: Surf Distance—First R. Bowman; second, W. Bowman; third, H. Lentz. 578 feet, 10 inches. Surf Average;—First, R. Bowman, second W. Bowman; third, H. Lentz. 548 feet. Fly Distance—First, C. Stocker; second, F. Krebs; third, R. Nierle. 72 feet. Fly Accuracy—First, E. Weigeman; second, J. Vandergriff; third, A. Clark. Score 84. , illara and Ralph Bowman, left to right, of % Plug Distance—First, B. Berlinger; sec­ i„' ,.00<1. who placed second and first respectively <•««(• two 8urf casting events at the Middle Atlantic ond, A. Clark; third, C. Stocker. 193 ft. 6 in. a n tournament this year. Ralph established ne % Plug Accuracy—First, E. Jenkins; sec­ w long distance surf casting record of 578 feet ond, G. Degourge; third, C. Leisey. Score 91. 10 inches for the eastern states. Ernest Jenkins, ardent Narberth sportsman. 12 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JUL? J MONTGOMERY CLUBS HEAR Montgomery County which is open to public Harry Z. Cole of Norristown, Fish Warden hunting. The Federation's Game Committee, STOCKING REPORTS of Montgomery County and a member of the said Mr. Krupp, has requested the Pennsyl­ Montgomery County Fish, Game and For-: The Montgomery County Federation of vania Game Commission to supply this Fed­ estry Association, as Chairman of the Fed­ Sportsmen's Clubs held its quarterly meeting eration with 500 six-weeks-old male pheas­ eration's Fish Committee, told the meeting in the Fire House on Butler Avenue, Ambler, ants and 80 six-weeks-old quail, to be raised that the Fish Commission had decided to fer­ where the Federation delegates were guests this year in the Federation pens at the tilize the five propagating ponds of the Fed­ of the Wissahickon Field and Stream Associa­ Eastern State Penitentiary, Graterford. eration in accordance with the plans sug­ tion. The latter association served refresh­ gested by the Alabama Agricultural Experi­ ments after the business meeting to 75 mem­ Montgomery County Gam» Protector, Am­ brose Gerhart of Souderton, a member of the mentation Station, as printed in a recent bers and delegates from the clubs of the issue of the "PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER"- Federation. Souderton Game, Fish and Forestry Associa­ tion, supplemented Mr. Krupp's report with It was further decided by this Committee to President William Stoneback of Colmar, a summary of the total game trapped during request the Montgomery County Sportsmen's who is also President of the Lansdale Sports­ the past spring months in Montgomery Park Dam, at Green Lane, he said, be stocked men's Club, presided at the meeting, while County as follows: 765 rabbits, 134 male with sunfish, catfish, suckers and smallmouth the Secretary, Leroy B. Seasholtz of Gilberts- pheasants, 481 hen pheasants, 661 gray squir­ bass, as well as to hire labor to repair the ville, from the Douglass Rod and Gun Asso­ rels, 11 raccoons and 9 quail. Mr. Gerhart existing leaks in the dams of the two pro­ ciation, and the Treasurer, William Ellis of added that the figures for the total game pagating ponds on the Beidler Farm. At Mr- Bridgeport, from the Montgomery County stocked this spring in Montgomery County Cole's suggestion, the meeting of the Federa­ Fish and Game Protective Association, were (including that which was distributed direct tion voted last evening, too, that its Secre­ also in attendance and gave their respective from the Pennsylvania Game Commission's tary should request the Pennsylvania De­ reports for the quarter ending last evening. Game Farm, as well as that which was raised partment of Forests and Waters to issue a in the Federation's pens at the Eastern State permit allowing the Federation to repair The chairman of the Federation's Game Penitentiary and that which was trapped Musselman's Dam in accordance with plans Committee, Russell Krupp of Schwenksville, under Mr. Gerhart's guidance), were as fol­ approved by the United States Army En­ from the Perkiomen Valley Sportsmen's lows: 1505 male pheasants, 634 hen pheasants, gineer and the W. P. A. Administrator. Association, told the meeting that, of the 554 491 quail, 350 gray squirrels, 16 raccoons and six-weeks-old pheasants received last year 1581 rabbits, making a grand total of 4,544 Howard C. Shallcross of Graterford, ft'jffl from the Pennsylvania Game Commission to head of game. the Perkiomen Valley Sportsmen's Ass-.> be raised in the Federation pens at the tion, added that sometime within th ,»e°1 Eastern State Penitentiary, only eighteen Montgomery County District Forester, E. F. future members of the Pennsylvr.mj \ • were lost before reaching maturity; while Brouse of Norristown, who is a member of Commission will come down from Harris- the remaining 536 of these pheasants were the Montgomery County Fish, Game and burg to the Montgomery County Sports- raised to maturity, distributed to the mem­ Forestry Association and Chairman of the ment's Park to confer with representatives ber clubs of the Federation on March 9th Federation's Forestry Committee, notified the of this Federation in order to make definite of this year and liberated throughout Mont­ delegates last evening that 1425 healthy plans for stocking of the waters above and gomery County on ground which is open to young trees will be distributed this week below the dam. Charles Hughes of Norris­ public hunting. Mr. Krupp informed the from the Federation's nursery to each of the town, also from the Montgomery County meeting that feed for these pheasants cost member clubs of the Montgomery County Fish, Game and Forestry Association andj approximately only 46c per bird to raise to Chairman of the Park Committee of the Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs. All except Federation, extended to the delegates of the maturity. When liberated their value was three of the member clubs, said Mr. Brouse, $2.49 per bird. Mr. Krupp further reported Federation the invitation of the Montgomery have expressed their desire to accept their County Park Commissioners to the effect that 68 of the 86 six-weeks-old quail which quotas of these trees for planting in their were also supplied to the Federation by the that any sportsmen's organization which may Pennsylvania Game Commission had been respective territories. Planting instructions desire to hold outings or picnics on the Park raised to maturity at a total cost of approxi­ and nursery inspection tickets will accom­ grounds are welcome to do so. "This is the mately 34c per bird. The quail, also, were pany each set of trees, which will include Sportsmen's Park", Mr. Hughes again told^ distributed to the members clubs of the Fed­ the following species: Scotch pine, Norway the Federation. eration and have been liberated on ground in spruce, white pine, larch, persimmon, oaks (mixed) butternut and shellbark. Additional events being planned by the Ways and Means Committee of the Federa­ tion, Mr. Ruth announced are: a Spring Picnic, held on Saturday, June 22nd in the Montgomery County Sportsmen's Park. Green Lane, and the Federation's Annual Clam Bake, which is scheduled for Sat­ urday, September 7th, also in the Mont­ gomery County Sportsmen's Park. The Clam Bake last fall was a most successful one, which was attended by 500 sportsmen and their families. Howard Shallcross, who is also one of the two delegates from the Montgomery County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs to the meet­ ing of the Southeastern Division of the State Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, told those present last evening about the recently-held quarterly meeting of the Southeastern Di­ vision, which recommended to the State Fed­ eration that a number of further changes be made in the present game and fish laws- Among the changes recommended, Mr. Shall­ cross said, were: that the red fox be placed on the "bounty list"; that groundhogs be pro­ tected to the extent that each hunter be per­ mitted to take only two per day; that fifty cents be added to the Pennsylvania fishing license and that the revenue obtained from the increase be allocated to the procuring of Allentown Call Photo additional land and to improvement ot Plenty of competition here as anglers invade the Little Lehigh in Lehigh Counts on opening day of streams throughout the State. this year's trout season. JLf 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 13 den the National Tube Company, the Standard En­ ror- "J*HE members and employes of the Game ?ed- Commission, and thousands of sportsmen 3tt iHUmariam gineering Company, and the Etna Engineer­ ting throughout the Commonwealth, will be a ing Company. He held an important execu­ fer- long time recovering from the shock caused By Ross L. Leffler tive position with the latter company at 'ed- by Ellwood City for a number of years prior ;ug- the untimely death on May 4 of Judd C. eri- to coming to Harrisburg. ient *urner, Assistant Executive Director of the He was long active in civic affairs in ]R"- Commission. Hundreds of others will like­ western Pennsylvania, having served as a 5 tO wise deplore the passing of this lovable per- member of the Lawrence County Executive en's s°nality. He was a benefactor of many, and ked Committee, Boy Scouts of America, Presi­ iuth "ecause of his amicable disposition and his dent of the Northwest Division of the Penn­ u the nusual ability to understand people, he won sylvania Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, jro- ^ everlasting place in their affection and and in numerous other capacities. Mr- esteem. Striking evidence of these humani­ ;ra- He was a member of the Presbyterian tarian qualities came to light in the eulogy :re- Church; the Ellwood Lodge 599, Free and De- Presented during the funeral services held at Accepted Masons; Pennsylvania Consistory, e a ^is home Church in Ellwood City. Therein 32nd degree, Zem Zem Temple Shrine, Erie; jair *8s emphasized his love for young people, the B. P. O. E. No. 1356, Ellwood City; an ans J°r the poor and the oppressed, his civic Ln- Honorary Member of the American Legion; Pride and devotion to duty, and a multitude and numerous other organizations. °f other attributes. Notwithstanding the Funeral services were held in the First •jrn ae hing void in the hearts of his bereaved Presbyterian Church, Ellwood City, burial Wife, daughter, and friends, the Commission taking place in the family plot in the nearby atl d its entire staff will long remember his Wurtemburg Cemetery. Field Division Super­ i-is- e Ver vigilant helpfulness, his cheery smile visors of the Commission in full uniform rts- atld ready wit. ves acted as pallbearers, with members of the Mr. Turner was born at Sandy Lake, Mer- Commission and its staff, and other long-time lite Cer md County, October 5, 1879. In his youth he associates and acquaintances, acting as hon­ "as widely known as a baseball player ris- JUDD C. TURNER orary pallbearers. Last rites were adminis­ nty hroughout Pennsylvania. For many years tered by members of his Masonic fraternity. md "e Was engaged in the steel industry, having the Would that we could be like you. een employed in various capacities by the (Pennsylvania Game News) the Always cheerful, pleasant, true. Your life too full of helpful service. sry To find place for complaint or malice. ect With unselfish devotion your tasks pursued. lay SPORTSMEN PLANT TREES IN Calm, patient, with strange powers endued, for they are confident that ultimately the Who ever keenly and sympathetically knew Perkiomen and Skippack Creeks particularly irK MONTGOMERY The trials that beset we humans so. the Long after material things have gone, are going to become better fishing streams. old Several score of sportsmen throughout Such sterling traits in man live on. They point out that now both run muddy for a week or more after nearly every heavy hontgomer y County are busily engaged in —Ohas. F. Stnmbaugh. Ranting trees and shrubs grown in the tree rain. the Ursery sponsored by the Montgomery ra- The agricultural class of the East Green­ : °Unty Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, ville Vocational School is assisting with the ing °cated at the Eastern State Penitentiary, planting in the upper part of the county and ;he raterford. Tree planting represents one of the Boy Scouts are helping to set out the rfc e Coon Hunters Association, Russel Kober, j major activities of the clubs according trees alloted to the Souderton Game, Fish jal Chalfont; Douglas Rod & Gun Club, Sylves­ the sportsmen. They not only provide and Forestry Association. at- ter Eisenhart, Gilbertsville; Huntington Val­ same, food and cover but help protect the Announcement was made also that the nt- re ley Sportsmen's Association, Raymond Mur­ ams by conserving the moisture and re­ Junior Sportsmen's Club connected with the am ray, Huntington Valley; Lansdale Sportsmen's ccing or eliminating soil erosion. The nur- Worcester School will plant 1500 trees sup­ ne, er Association, Ross E. Zander, Lansdale; Lower y has been in operation for three years plied by the Montgomery County Game, Fish nd Merion Rod and Gun Club, Henry Hopkins, ,. " it is said to have arrived at full produc- Narberth; Montgomery Co. Game, Fish and and Forestry Association and the boys of the °n this year. Twenty thousand trees and Forestry Association, E. F. Brouse, R. D. 2, Hatfield Vocational School are setting out he /^ubs are being distributed equally to each Norristown; Perkioman Valley Sportsmen's 3,000 furnished by the same club. These plant­ ity ember club for planting in its own area. All Association, Raymond Landis, Yerkes; Roy- ings supplement the Federation activities, it st- UI , this stock was grown from seed and is ersford Hunting & Fishing Club, Donald Mil­ was said. ite 0I)1 , 1 to 3 years old and from 8 inches to ler, 4th & Spruce Sts., Royersford; Souder- >se & et in height. ton Game, Fish & Forestry Association, John •Id BOARD OF INQUIRY FOR Among the species now being planted are Ziegler, Diamond St., Souderton; Tri-County )i- s * . shellbarks, hazlenut, persimmon, white Sporesmen's Association, Fremont Keim, GREAT LAKES FISHERIES :d- Pin e i Scotch pine, Norway spruce and larch, Pleasant View Rd., Sanatoga; Upper Provi­ be An From the State Department comes an an­ effort is being made to have the trees dence Game, Fish & Forestry Association, vs- i set nouncement welcome to members of the out in wild land in groups of at least 250 Joseph Dietrick, Oaks, Penna.; Upper Perkio- li­ Izaak Walton League and others who for acing the conifers in the center of the plot men Sportsmen's Association, Robert Smoll, years have been concerned with the vanish­ ed a the hardwoods on the exterior. The Red Hill; Wissahickon Field & Stream Asso­ ing fish resources in the Great Lakes. On •O' liters are spaced about 6 feet apart each ciation, F. L. Streeper, Sr., Ambler. ;r- a February 29, Secretary of State Hull and t(i y and the hardwoods 20 to 25 feet so that The sportsmen believe there are hundreds Loring Christie, Canadian minister signed ty y . will have an opportunity to develop of' acres in the northern part of the county "an exchange of notes establishing a board rig 0 fruit and seed bearing trees. that might well be devoted to such planting of inquiry for the Great Lakes Fisheries." ilt> . Th6e lo announcement was made that the fol- and they further share the opinion that by It is the aim of this board to "make a study of Win of g clubs are participating in the pro- planting twenty to twenty-five thousand trees of the taking of fish and will submit recom­ a year an excellent showing will be made mendations as to methods or preserving and , ^°Ulder Valley Sportsmen's Association, over a period of years. The fishermen are developing the fisheries." It will not have hn Breyer, R. D. 1, Green Lane; Bucks Co. enthusiastic about this long term program regulatory powers. 14 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY

Don't try to cover too much ground when fishing with plugs, bugs, or other artificial lures for bass. A score or more casts may be necessary to arouse the anger of a he-man bass and make him strike. A lure cast re­ peatedly in one spot often even will bring a strike from a fish that is not feeding at all but which is annoyed by the lure.

An all-night rain often will cause a rise in a stream in the summer. Then is the time to fish with streamers and bucktails.

RASSHOPPERS and crickets are good Many fishermen think that flies which are frayed and tattered make the best lures. G black bass baits. Try them when a brisk A bass often will trick an angler using a Did you ever notice that trout frequently will wind is blowing, and fish from the windward fly or light plug. When the lure falls into ignore a fly that has fallen into the water side of the stream. The fish think that the the water the bass, if it is the least bit doubt­ but will eagerly snap up another that has breeze has blown them into the water. Most ful of its genuineness, will flash past the been dead for some time and which is anglers use them as surface baits. Small fallen object and strike it a blow with it5 hooks should be used. bedraggled and motionless? Some day, when the fish scorn all the flies you offer, tear one tail. Unless the fisherman is a keen observer, up a bit, make it mussy, and cast it. he will mistake this action for a real strike- Five color combinations are recognized as excellent black bass lures in the bucktails. They are plain white hair; black and white A small hook attached to a bass-size pork hair in two layers; yellow and brown hair Renew flies by holding them with a forceps rind lure is good for catching pan-fish. in two layers; plain fox squirrel, and red and in the steam from the spout of a kettle and white hair in two layers. then brush the wings and hackle with a very soft toothbrush. A little piece of red cloth, well trimmed and fastened to the head of a spoon, make* A line which has been used for a long time the lure more attractive. is not to be trusted. It should be carefully tested, and weak portions broken off until a These cheap repair kits that are on the length of good, strong line remains. Occas­ market for patching inner tubes are just the ionally during the season turn the line on ticket for minor boot and wader repairs. In Imitation worms, helgramites, and craw' the reel, so that the same end is not in use patching a snag or a cut, first scrape the sur­ fish mounted on hooks can be bought, bu' in the water all the time and so the line face clean of all dirt. Apply a coat of cement they must be kept moving in the water. wears evenly. and allow it to dry. Then apply another coat and allow it to become tacky. On this place the patch, pressing it down firmly all over. The wise bass angler confines his efforts Don't neglect the tiny black bivisible dry A round patch, incidentally, will stay in place to the early morning hours and from sunse' flies for late season trout fishing. They may much better than one which has several until dark. These are the times of the da)' be difficult for the angler to see, but trout corners. when fish feed in warm weather. are quite likely to be looking for just such kinds of insects to be on the water.

1 Bass seen feeding at or near the surface of A casting reel should be filled to withi' e Spinners are among the most useful of all the water often ignore live bait. But at the a quarter inch of the cross-bars. The lin 1 fishing tackle, being used with either worms, same time they freely take a fly fished either swells when wet, and a reel that is too fu' e minnows, or flies. A guide for spinner sizes: wet or dry. Large patterns of trout flies are will cause trouble. A half-filled reel, on th For panfish, No. 0; for brown and brook effective in such instances, but small ones other hand, means a greater number o> trout, No. 1, and for bass and rainbow trout, also can be used, for bass can be hooked just backlashes. No. 2 or No. 3. as easily with them as with the larger lures.

The bearings of a bait casting reel should be oiled every few hours while it is i'1 constant use.

Strikes cannot be expected on spoons an" spinners that have become dull, and fisl1 cannot be held on hooks which are rusted- It is the flash of the spoon or spinner attracts fish. The needle-sharp points are p11'' on hooks for the express purpose of driving deep into the jaw of a hooked fish.

Here are average sizes for hooks for blaC"* bass flies: For small, clear streams and sm»' or moderate-weight bass, No. 6 or 8; for tb' same streams if roiled, No. 2 or 4; for cloude" waters, wind-swept lakes, and streams ° good size, No. 1 and 1-0.

Friend: "I see you are driving a new c»f If you were a minnow, you would tremble in your boots at a sight like this — the wide gaping mouths Insurance Agent: "Yes, I tried to sell $', of three black bass. No wonder, is it, that casting lures bring results in bass fishing and that bass are regarded as among the gamest of fresh water fishes? insurance policy to an automobile salesmamann- 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 15

NORTHWEST DIVISION HOLDS AWARD FISH PRIZES AT 20 inches long; girth, 13% inches; weight, five pounds; caught, July 21, in Lake Wallenpau- SPRING MEETING LEHIGH MEETING pack; lure, plug. The prize was a steel cast­ The regular spring meeting of the North­ Colored motion pictures of fishing and ing rod, donated by the M. C. Ebbecke Hard­ western Division of the Pennsylvania Federa­ hunting in Canada and the surprise be­ ware Co. Second prize, Rudy Hassler, 939 tion of Sportsmen's Clubs was called to order stowal of a gift on Charles H. Nehf, associa­ Cedar Street, for a fish 19 inches long; girth, in the club house of the Kalbfus Rod and tion secretary, were highlights of the annual 13% inches; weight, 4 pounds 2 ounces; Gun Club near Clarendon in Warren County, meeting of the Lehigh County Fish and Game caught September 24 in Brown's Lake. Lure, by Chirman F. M. Gear. Protective Association. plug. The prize was a portable refrigerator, Roll call reported Vice Chairman Raymond Nearly 700 members attended the meeting donated by the AUentown Sporting Goods H. Armstrong and Secretary Seth L. Myers, and program held in the AUentown High house. Third prize, Elwood S. Adams, 1623 present with Treasurer N. C. Mills absent. School auditorium. Turner Street, an Ashaway casting line, the gift of the association, for a fish 18% inches All counties reported present excepting Victor Cody, New York state resident and long; girth, 13% inches; weight, 3 pounds Erie and Forest. one of the country's outstanding sports cam­ 12 ounces; caught August 26, 1939, in Naomi Mr. G. W. Alexander, alternate delegate eramen, showed and described the movies on Lake, lure, minnow. from Clarion County was seated in the Canada. absence of Dr. N. C. Mills. Nehf, editor of the "Field Sports" column Wall-eyed Pike—Allen S. Kline 1422 Gor­ don Street, a tackle box, the gift of the asso­ Mr. Merle Bideaux was seated as the new in the AUentown Morning Call, was given ciation, for a fish 19 % inches long; girth, 9% delegate from Crawford County upon advice an electric roaster in recognition of his work inches; weight, 2 pounds 7 ounces; caught of the secretary that his credentials had been to the association. July 1, 1939, in Lake Wallenpaupack; lure, forwarded prior to the meeting. Mr. Bideaux Speakers included: R. A. McCachran, as­ plug. was introduced by the Chair. sistant chief of the division of lands, Penn­ Pickerel—Earl H. Burger, 628 Greenleaf The Chair then called the meeting back sylvania Game Commission; Charles A. French, State Fish Commissioner; C. Joel Street, a steel casting rod, donated by C Y. to order and instructed the secretary to pro­ Schelly & Bro., for a fish 28y inches long; ceed with the reading of the minutes. Young, Fish Warden; William A. Moyer, 4 Game Protector; Paul Zimmerman, mem­ girth, 12% inches; weight, 5 pounds 9 ounces; During the reading of the minutes the Erie bership committee chairman. The Rev. Carl caught July 13, 1939, in Peck's Pond; lure, County delegate, Dr. J. J. Koehler arrived E. Neudoerffer conducted memorial services. minnow. and was seated at the board. The Chair asked if Erie County wished the secretary to begin over with the reading of the minutes, and Fish Prizes was advised that it was not desired. The Awards for the 1939 fish contest, all entries A PLEDGE minutes were approved as read. of big fish being backed by affidavits were: Mother nature you are kind to me Several letters from member clubs were Brown Trout—The only contestant was You fill my life with endless glee. read and discussed, pertaining to the note Charles H. Long of 109 East Elm Street, So with indebted gratitude I'll retaliate— Printed on the State Federation Certificate Emmaus, who was awarded a fishing jacket, I'll take your fish at a moderate rate. which advises that the certificate is void after donated by F. D. Wieland, Bethlehem, for a Februray 12, 1940. fish 20 inches long; girth, 11 inches; weight, I'll destroy every net and every snare. And like my Fellow-Sportsmen shall be fair; The secretary was instructed to advise all 2 pounds 12 ounces; caught June 4, 1939, in And with a, "Hi-ya pal, how'er they bitin'?" clubs that they are in good standing, with the Little Lehigh creek; lure, yellow fly. I'll help you with your undaunted fightin'. dues paid from now until the next annual Smallmouth Bass—Alex Stratford, 1319 To make some Fishermen realize— convention. Liberty Street, a level-winding reel, the gift of the association, for a fish 19 inches long; That a limit is not always considered a prize. A letter was read on the annual destruc­ girth, 12 inches; weight, 3 pounds 8 ounces; tion of fish in Lake Erie and the Chair And if I wade a stream disappointed, caught October 21, 1939, in Maiden Creek; asked Dr. Koehler for his opinion. I'll stroll back home with content anointed. lure, Heddon river runt. He advised that every year millions of Thus, Mother Nature, I'll do my part. Largemouth Bass—First prize, E. E. Lau- small fish are destroyed by commercial fish­ I'll remember you deep in my .heart. denslager, 842 North Ninth Street, for a fish ermen and that it has become a public nuis- —Michael Paul Daniels. anse in late summer from the odor produced by dead fish. He stated that at one time the City of Erie rated as first as a commercial fishing harbor for fresh water fishing but at the present has dropped to ninth, and that it Was about time that some sort of a ruling be made to govern the wasting of fish. Randall McCain, Federal Asst. Range Ex­ aminer of the Allegheny National Forest spoke on the rearing of fingerlings for the forest waters and presented a map of 736,000 acres included, of which 436,000 acres are owned by the National Forest. He pointed °ut many valuable phases of the work being done and discussed the deer food problem. It was reported by Clarion County repre­ sentatives that the reason Dr. Mills was absent was due to an auto accident the evening before, but that he was not seriously injured. Crawford County extended an invitation for the September meeting.

May: "That old star is trying very hard to recall a face." Fay; "You mean she's working her mem­ ory overtime?" May: "No, I mean she's working her cos­ Albeit G. Shimmel of West Decatur, whose splendid illustrations have been featured frequently in this madeine, depicts a white tail buck on a buck skin. He is an ardent sportsman and secretary of the metics overtime." West Decatur Fish and Game Association. 16 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY

free part up close to the knot, then tear off cations were answered promptly. He was BUCKTAIL FISHING the excess end. Finally place a drop of appointed a member of the Constitution and (Continued from Page 3) lacquer cement on the head, and the fly, Fig. By-Laws Revision Committee of the West­ the habit of a slow retrieve, and from then 11 is finished. moreland County Sportsmen's Association. on, few fish will be lost. In general, the methods outlined above A letter from Dr. C. A. Mortimer, Secre­ And now to make this article complete should serve as a foundation in tying and tary-Treasurer of the Pennsylvania Federa­ suppose we try our luck in tying the Edson fishing bucktails. Learn to construct your tion of Sportsmen's Clubs, was read concern­ Dark Tiger,—a fly which .is slightly more own lures; study various methods of retriev­ ing the minutes of the Federation meeting complicated in construction than the Alaskan ing them, and some day you'll tie into an old in February, at Harrisburg and also the pro­ described above. lunker that will literally rip the rod out of posed changes in the Federation Constitution. your hand. Here's Luck! Place a long shanked hook in the vise, and A communication from the East Forks Sportsmen's Association regarding a donation with well waxed tying silk, (size 00, about 15 * Figs. A. B. AND C. show the tying of the whip inches long), start winding over its own end finis??. In Fig. "A" grasp loop at point "x" and for the purpose of fighting pollution was also make four (4) turns around the hook shank binding read. about an eighth of an inch back from the down the free end at each operation. Slip the dub­ eye, see Fig. 4. bing needle in the loop. Fig. B: grasp the free end A copy of the Federation Constitution was and pull it tight over the needle. Continue winding roughly out to the bend sent to Vice-President M. C. Merritts of where a few fibres from a Lady Amherst Altoona, Pa. tippet should be bound down and fastened SOUTHEAST DIVISION ASKS FOX It was reported that the Allegheny County Sportsmen's League was unsuccessful in se­ with the tying silk, see Fig. 5. BOUNTY At the same time, fasten in, or bind down, curing the 1941 Convention of the National a piece of heavy yellow chenille, flue of The May meeting of the Southwest Division Wildlife Federation. which has been removed for a short distance of Sportsmen's Clubs was held at the cabin Moved by Hollowood, seconded by Van near the end. I might add that fastening in of Hon. Ross L. Leffler. Cleve, that a moment of silent tribute be any material is in all cases accomplished by The following officers and delegates observed in memory of the passing of Judd binding it down on the hook shank with a answered roll call: Chairman Reed, Treas. C. Turner, Assistant Executive Director of few turns of the tying silk. Don't get the Menzemer, Sec. Yake. Delegates: Armstrong, the Game Commission and that the following impression that it is necessary to fasten it King; Allegheny, Menzemer; Beaver, Craw­ resolution be adopted. with a knot or half hitch, for such refine­ ford; Washington, Hollowood; Somerset, WHEREAS, The Almighty in His infinite ments are useless, unnecessary, and take up Critchfield; Westmoreland, Achtzehn; Greene, wisdom has removed one of the Administra­ considerable time. The only fastening knot VanClove; Fayette, Hess; Indiana, Stahura. tive Staff of the Pennsylvania Game Com­ necessary in any fly is the whip finish tied Chairman Collin Reed reported a success­ mission: Judd C. Turner in at the last operation. Now before the body ful National Wildlife Federation Convention is formed, we must move the tying silk up in Washington, D. C. He reported Stamps and WHEREAS, His passing will be keenly felt near the eye of the hook, where it will be Folders were purchased and distributed to by that body, and conveniently at hand to secure the chenille. the various county units. He asked for sug­ WHEREAS, Our loss is his gain; and Fig. 6 represents the fly at this stage with gestions as to how the stamps may be better WHEREAS, His loyalty, integrity and de­ the tying silk moved forward. To keep it disposed of next year, as many difficulties votion to duty won for him a place in the from unwinding, the hackle pliers are clip­ were encountered this past year. hearts of all sportsmen ped to the free end, their weight holding it Secretary's Report BE IT RESOLVED, That an expression of taut. Throughout the operations of building Your secretary attended the Somerset sympathy be extended to the bereaved fam­ up a fly, these hackle pliers should be left ily; and clipped to the tying silk, so that the hands County Banquet on May 2nd. All communi­ are free to work on any other part. Now build up the body, by winding on the chenille in close even spaces. When near the eye, fasten it with a few turns of the tying silk, then cut off the excess end, see Fig. 7. My usual practice in tying flies is to make a number of the same pattern; and quite a bit of material can be saved in this way, as in the instance of the chenille, by originally cutting off a length around a foot long, which is sufficient for making a num­ ber of bodies. At the throat, we require some bright red or scarlet hackle, which is fastened in on the underside. This may be the tip of a scarlet hackle, or a number of long fibres sheared off near the butt. Fig. 8 shows the construction of the fly at this stage with the hackle fastened in. From the center of a deer's tail detach a tuft of long brown hair, approximately equal to an eighth of an inch in diameter, and about one and half times the hook in length. Shake out the short fine pieces near the base, then swab the butts of hair with lacquer cement. Hold the hair immediately above the hook shank, then secure in position with a few turns of the tying silk. The construc­ tion of the fly up to this stage is shown in Fig. 9. Select two Jungle Cock feathers of the same size and length and fasten these in, one Courtesy Reading Times. These officers and directors of tile Berks County Chapter, Izaak Walton League of America, are engaged on each side as shown in Fig. 10. We have in leading members through one of their busiest years in history. Front row, left to right: John D. still a free length of tying slik, which must Rothermel, chairman of the Board of Directors; Clement Parlaman, vice president; John P. Deck, president; Harvey Adams, treasurer, and Alfred A. Ramm, Jr., secretary. Back row: Directors, Byron now be fastened off with the whip finish*. B. Mortimer, education; Levin D. Sehearer, woods; Ralph E. Walley, program; Albert Green, waters; After this operation is performed grasp the Oscar A. Becker, membership, and Harold C. Marbarger, wildlife. 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 17

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy be sent to the Pennsylvania Game Commis­ sion and Game News. Crawford and Beaver County introduced a resolution recommending that Beaver County be included on the list of counties in which the Game Commission decided to pay a bounty on the Red Fox. After con­ siderable discussion it was moved by Stahura and seconded by Crawford that the entire Southwest Division be included, if found by the Commission to be necessary. Motion carried. Moved by Stern, seconded by Hollowood, that a rising vote of thanks be given to the host, Hon. Ross L. Leffler, for the fine hos­ pitality extended. Motion carried. At this time the meeting adjourned for a delectable lunch, served under the direction of Mrs. Leffler. Following the lunch the meeting was called to order and remarks were in order.

CHARLES FRENCH, Fish Commissioner Mr. French thanked the division for the fine cooperation and stated we received more fish in the past several years than at any time previous. Mr. King asked about the stocking of Crooked Creek and was told that Potatoes, trout and the fryin' pan — oaa you beat this combination for a dinner fit for a kinff? fish have already been stocked. Mr. Gritch- field discussed the stocking and fishing of the waters on Federal Government property SAMUEL C. CASTNER, Member Game have food plots planted for game and the near Trent. Upon motion by King, seconded Commission cutting of certain trees for browse. He asked by Hollowood, the secretary write to John C. Mr. Castner was a former director in the the cooperation of the clubs to assist the Youngman, President of the Pennsylvania Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs and was Forest Fire wardens in reporting and assist­ Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, Williams- elevated to the Game Commission. He stated ing in forest fires. Port, Pa., asking him to write Charles Jack­ the State Federation makes the Game Com­ son, Acting Commissioner of Federal Fish­ mission of Pennsylvania. We should be care­ eries, recommending the Pennsylvania Fish ful who is elected to be directors and especi­ Commission be given the power to stock and McKEAN ADDRESSES FRAZER CLUB ally the President of the Federation. There regulate all Federal waters in Pennsylvania. RALLY Motion carried. is plenty of fun in cutting trees for deer browse, as experiments have been carried Frazer Township Sportsmen's Club's fifth on in Game Refuge No. 68 very successfully. annual banquet in Tarentum Legion Home, C. R. BULLER, Chief Fish Culturist Should you be near Loyalsock Game Farm was by far the most enjoyable of the annual Mr. Buller discussed the reason why some pay it a visit. functions conducted by the energetic group trout in project streams were under the size of sportsmen from the Pitcairn Heights area. hmit and stated it was a conservative meas­ SETH GORDON, Executive Director, In addition to a fine program of talks and Game Commission ure. Some of the trout hooked would prob­ entertainment, the club distributed 70 prizes ably die if fishermen would not release them Mr. Gordon stated the saturation point had among the 150 guests, a ratio of a prize to Properly; 20,000 streams are stocked in this been reached in Farm Game Projects but every other person in attendance. State. "If the Fish Committees in the various that Special Wildlife Refuges, sponsored by Speakers at the dinner included well counties will work out a satisfactory program reputable Sportsmen's Clubs was the next f known game and fishing officials, as well as or stocking the streams, the commission step in real conservation. There are 1671 promenent sportsmen. Would be glad to cooperate", stated Mr. townships and if one refuge was located in Buller. With reference to fingerling trout, each what a difference that would make. The feature address was made by Dr. M. the Commission regards them as a surplus However, over 1200 are now found in the W. Heilman, who gave a highly interesting and these would be available for stocking State. The increase in land purchase and talk on big game throughout the Rocky after all ponds have been filled. its management in the past four years is 60 Mountain area, from Alaska to Mexico. per cent. Over 30,000 rabbits were trapped The other speakers included Fred McKean, W. C. RYDER, Game Technician, and released this past winter. He stated that of New Kensington, member of the Fish Division "G" 47,000 bucks and 14,000 antelless deer were Commission; Ralph Liphart, county game Mr. Ryder distributed samples of Pennsyl­ killed in 1939. protector; Sam Henderson, fishing protector vania Game Commission Food Plot Mix to of Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties; the delegates and stressed the need for proper ROLLIN HEFFELFINGER, Field Supervisor John Mock, outdoors editor of The Pittsburgh food cover for a plentiful supply of game. He Division "G". Press; W. C. Ryder, state game technician, Presented antlers of deer showing how the Mr. Heffelfinger stated we should go back and Bob Yake, secretary of the Southwestern food and proper sex ratio will produce and sell rabbit trapping in the local areas, as Division of Sportsmen's Olubs. greater and better spread of antlers. Pam­ they are the best stock yet. Over 5,000 rab­ George N. Scheid,' of The Valley Daily phlets on bird homes and feeding stations, bits had been trapped in this Division and News, acted as toastmaster of the affair. Pennsylvania Game Food Plot Mix and Game the surface was merely scratched, so to speak. Otto DeQuinze, president of the Frazer Shelters by planting shrubs and trees were He distributed literature on Primary Game club, led the committee which arranged the distributed to the men. Refuges, Auxiliary Game Refuges, State banquet. R Game Lands by Counties and Cooperative Pete Krass, of Carnegie, sportsmen's club OBERT LAMBERTON, Member Game Farm-Game Projects. He thanked the men Commission organizer, showed several interesting reels for their fine cooperation in all phases of of movies on conservation projects. Mr. Lamberton spoke on Conservation and game activities. e°rnplimented Mr. Leffler upon his efforts in Splendid musical entertainment was pro­ behalf of the sportsmen of the State. He V. M. BEARER, District Forester vided by Mrs. G. Webber Knight, whose stated the Northwest Division were in favor Mr. Bearer very graciously extended the accordion solos appeared twice on the pro­ °f the Fox Bounty. cooperation of his department in offering to gram. 18 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY

all disappeared from Penn's woods. Today hunting is a sport and not a matter of killing for meat. The sportsman must conserve and protect for himself and for future generations. Major Lynn G. Adams, head of the State Motor Police, recently stated that not one habitual criminal in Pennsylvania penal in­ stitutions admitted an interest in outdoor life. The youth of the nation deserves the wholesome influence of outdoor life and a right to hunt and enjoy the sport. Conser­ vation is the only answer. The speaker pointed out that the Game Commission's annual income is $1,250,000, while it is estimated that Pennsylvania hunt­ ers spend $30,000,000 each season for hunting and fishing. In closing, Mr. Leffler urged his hearers to back the Boy Scouts to build good char­ acter in the youth of the nation, be good sportsmen and good citizens of the U. S. A. C. R. Buller was then introduced. He as­ serted that careless and indiscriminate plant­ ing of fish is doing more harm than stream pollution today. He went on to prove his statement by showing that where fishermen destroyed the cycle of life provided by na­ ture no good resulted. He gave a num­ ber of examples to prove his point. In Cuba black bass were imported. They prospered and ate the top feeding minnows that lived on the foam causing malaria. As a result Cuba has had its worst epidemic of malaria in years, all due to the stocking of the black bass. Indiscriminate planting of fish is a head­ ache even if it does seem wise to many fish­ ermen. Ignorance of the fact that interfer­ ence with nature's cycle of life causes dis­ astrous results must be wiped out, Mr. Buller stated. Some present day stocking programs are wrong and will work hardships on fishermen in the future, so that while the grandfathers are blamed in many cases, a great deal of the trouble may be readily traced to the present generation. Both Mr. Leffler and Mr. Buller were pre­ sented gifts by the toastmaster on behalf of the Association and as a remembrance of Allentown Call Photo their visit to Huntingdon. Mrs. Herman Buss and son Larry of Catasauqua trying their luck for trout early this season in Jordan The toastmaster presented a number of Creek at Helfrieh's Sprine, Lehigh County. guests: William G. Fluke, of Saxton, a mem­ ber of the State Game Commission; W. J. LEFFLER AND BULLER AT 23 years he has been associated with Boy Davis, division supervisor, State Game Com­ Scout work and is now regional director for mission: John Sedam, game technician; T. HUNTINGDON five states. Roy Morton, of Petersburg, district forester; The Huntingdon County Game, Fish and Thomas Bell, county game protector; Gerald Forestry Association joined the nation in ob­ Pennsylvania now leads all other states in the union in conservation work, Mr. Leffler Swayne, president of the junior sportsmen's serving Wildlife Restoration Week and held group; Charles Cisney, superintendent of its fifth annual banquet in the social rooms stated in opening his address. The Common­ wealth has made great strides in the past game bird rearing unit; Ross Erb, chestnut of the First Methodist church. Over two project; Maurice L. Banker, chairman, south hundred persons were present at the affair. two decades and the work continues. Con­ servation is vital to all. central division, Pennsylvania Federation of Ross L. Leffler, of McKeesport, president Sportsmen's Clubs; George Black, of Rock- of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, and Defining a sportsman as a man who plays hill Furnace, president of Huntingdon Coun­ C. R. Buller, of Bellefonte, chief fish cultur- the game according to the rules of the game ty Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs; Merrill ist. Board of Fish Commissioners, were the he plays, Mr. Leffler directed his remarks to Merritts, of Altoona, vice-president of Penn­ main speakers for the occasion. those who are not sportsman according to sylvania Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs. The program opened with the singing of his definition. It cost $400,000 a year to The Association officers were also intro­ America, after which Rev. C. W. Fields said check on those who do not know how to duced: James Kyper, vice-president; Her­ the invocation. A trio, "The Chirps", of play the game of hunting according to the bert Jackson, secretary; Howard Shilling, Juniata College, sang several numbers dur­ rules. treasurer and Ed Miller, Clyde Davis, Fred ing the evening. At the close of the last century Pennsyl­ Mark, Harry Davis, Harold Corbin, F. M. Harold Fisher, president of the Hunting­ vania was a "brush state" due to wanton de­ Simpson, directors. don County Game, Fish and Forestry Associ­ struction of the woods. With the forest went A one-reel moving picture, "Once Upon A ation, presented the toastmaster, Dr. Fred R. the game and in some instances the species Time", was shown and everyone present en­ Hutchison, who in turn presented Mr. Lef­ of wildlife were exterminated. The passen­ joyed it. The closing number on the pro­ fler. The speaker has been a member of the ger pigeon, the panther, the timber wolf, the gram was the singing of "Auld Lang Syne", State Game Commission for 15 years. For native beaver, native elk and native buffalo by the assembly. lit 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER

BROWNS, BRUNETTES AND The program included three reels of motion VENANGO CLUB HEARS REPORTS pictures shown by R. L. Stahl of Mifflinburg Thirty-seven members attended the month­ BROOKIES which were greatly enjoyed. ly meeting of the Venango County Rod and (Continued from Page-9) Cash prizes were awarded to Marie Ker- Gun club held in the K. of C. club rooms, The gravely courteous mountain boy said: stetter, Evelyn Laney and Junior Musser, with H. S. Gahagen presiding. all pupils of the Mifflinburg schools, who "Go first!" Not so, this gallant. Be polite An encouraging report on trout conditions were selected winners of the poster contest until it hurts; that's my motto. in the county was given by J. H. Ahrens of conducted by the association. The posters Oil City, the local fish warden. "Go right ahead, Sir Galahad, I'll follow. conveyed ideas against illegal fishing and There aren't any fish in this blamed trickle hunting. William Campbell, the county game ward­ anyway", opined I. en, reported that several hundred rabbits Harold Leiser of Lewisburg displayed a have been trapped on posted ground and "You won't get any", sez he, "at least not number of sample feeders, much to the in­ moved to territory where hunting is per­ after I pass that-a-way". terest of those present. mitted. "Neither will you", scoffed I, "get started". It was reported that Union County sports­ Following the business session, S. W. Jack­ Well he did, and how. Out of about a men had personally subscribed $363 to the son, gave an interesting talk on Pennsylvania Pitcher full of water he yanked a nine or "Restore the River Fund." The necessary wild life, concluding with a very concise ten inch brookie. A couple yards farther on, $23,000 has been raised. The project has been and detailed explanation and diagnosis of a little swirl about deep enough to hold a assured and will be started before the end our black bear and his various relatives. ten quart bucketful yielded up another. Just of the fiscal year. around the first bend, another—things were A. J. Herbster of Laurelton, Roy L. Stahl looking up; that baby lived in a depression of Mifflinburg and Richard Diehl of Lewis­ Perhaps big enough to swallow the usual burg were named a committee to make ar­ "A Scotchman gave a penny to a blind apartment size bathtub. Despite the leader, rangements for a sportsmen's picnic. man. He needed the pencil." your narrator then overpowered one out of the same hole. By this time I was perhaps willing to change places with my pal—had pride per­ mitted and he offered. But he didn't offer; the spirit of the chase had clasped the lad to her bosom and how that guy did go. With nerves aquiver like a thoroughbred at the Post, he raced to the culvert and fed line into a pool some fifteen feet long, two or three feet across, eighteen to twenty inches deep, with a clay washout under the bank, Protected and shaded by a wild grape vine. Sy the time I arrived a few seconds later, three fine brookies lay gasping on the sand. And on and on down past the barnyard, down into the whispering hemlocks, down through the wooded bottom and blackberry thickets where trout were trout; and God put them there for mountain boys. Bigger and better as we went; he added four, your cor­ respondent two. Again never judge a book by its cover; hor a trout stream by its trickle. And when a mountain boy tells you not to use a leader, better take his advice. Never, never refuse t° go first when he offers you the privilege. *t's a mistaken courtesy, Old Top, a mistaken courtesy!

SPEAKS ON BASS AT UNION MEETING C. A. Kniss, well known Mifflinburg sports­ man, gave a splendid talk on bass fishing in Union County at a meeting of the Union bounty Sportsmen's Association held in the P- O. s. of A. Hall, New Columbia. Mr. Kniss described the habits of the bass and with 'bat pointed out effective ways of taking bass •^ith live bait and casting with plugs, stressed the advantages, extra thrills of taking this "bronze battler" with the dry fly and fly Ashing tackle. He described in detail the technique of dry fly fishing for bass. He also displayed, for the benefit of sport, eight dry ^y lures used exclusively in his fishing. He closed his remarks with a plea to the fish- erman to save the undersized bass by care- flJl releasing. ^lr. Kniss also pointed out how the bass fisherman can improve his sport by refrain- ln§ from killing every legal size bass caught, calling the fisherman's attention to the ^ogan, "If you would catch more fish, kill Fishing streamer fly with the fly rod, Gerald Tiffany of Freeland scored this catch of smalunouth bass, yellow perch and rock bass last season in the North Branch of the Susquehanna Kiver. Photo by less." Truman Ilenson. 20 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY

During the remainder of the year, meetings MIDDLE ATLANTIC CASTING CLUB NOTES are held on the second Monday of the month in the Library, Franklin Avenue and Hartell Street, Philadelphia. (Continued from Page 11) Mantau, New Jersey and members of the Tournament on June 9th at Willow Grove Gloucester County Game & Fish Association, Landsdale Sportsmen's Club Park and placed in the Plug Casting for also placed among the highest four in the William Stoneback of Colmar, President of Accuracy event. Ray tells us that there are Plug Casting for Accuracy event. This is the the Lansdale Sportsmen's Club and President plenty of fish in his local territory on which third successive year in which father and also of the Montgomery County Federation to practice with any kind of fresh water lure, sons have competed in the M. A. A. C. C. of Sportsmen's Clubs, has been busy indeed and that between now and the 1941 Tourna­ Tournament and have turned in excellent during the past few months. In addition to ment he will have an opportunity to practice scores. his own local Club's activities, he has, with while fishing. The Gloucester County Game & Fish Asso­ the aid of other members of the Federation, ciation meets each month (excepting July put across the First Annual Picnic of the Dover Fishing Club of Philadelphia and August) at the Franklin Hotel in Glass- Federation, which was held at the new Mont­ Regular monthly meetings have been dis­ boro, New Jersey. Edward Klaisz is President gomery County Park, Green Lane, on June continued for July and August. Outdoor of this Association. 22nd. This affair was well attended, and the cooperation of members of member clubs of activities, however, are in full swing and Among its activities this Association held the .Federation made of it a highly successful three club trips to nearby fishing centers a Field Trial for Bird Dogs last spring and event. The new Montgomery County Park have already been enjoyed. Several others plans to hold a Field Trial for Coon Dogs offered very comfortable arrangements for are planned for this month and August. in October. During the past spring, too, this this picnic, with tables, benches, fine old Dr. Hankinson, chairman of the trip com­ Association planted approximately 100 per­ shade trees, adequate space for games and mittee, spent a week with several other mem­ manent feed patches throughout the hunting other amusements, as well as casting facilities bers fishing for channel bass on the Eastern territory of Gloucester County, New Jersey. Shore. This is an annual event and those on the water above the newly constructed going on the trip always get their bass. Holmesburg Fish and Game Protective dam on Deep Creek. Among the attractions Association scheduled by President Stoneback and his Willard Bowman and a party returned from aides for the Federation picnic were games a trip to Oregon Inlet and report the taking In the Plug Casting for Accuracy event at and various contests for men, women and of five channel bass weighing up to forty- the M. A. A. C. C. Tournament on June 9th, children, including Plug Casting for Ac­ four pounds. Art Clark of Fox Chase Manor, a member curacy events and quoits. Prizes were award­ The Overbrook Lions Club were our guests of the Holmesburg Fish and Game Protective ed on a Class System basis in the Plug Cast­ at the last meeting and as they witnessed the Association, took second place in Class "A"; ing for Accuracy contest. while in the Fly Casting for Distance event, picture, "Battling Giant Tuna?', the lions Frank Krebs, also of this club, placed second Ritner W. Tomlinson of North Wales is roared with delight every time a horse- in Class "A". Art Clark also placed third in Secretary of the Lansdale Sportsmen's Club, mackerel would strike. At the conclusion of Class "A" in the Fly Casting for Accuracy which holds its meetings on the fourth Tues­ the meeting the club served them a real fish­ event while William Dur of Bristol took first day of each month in the American Legion erman's lunch and they all went home wag­ place in Class "B" of the Fly Casting for Hall in Lansdale. ging their heads with friendliness. Distance event and Walter Wilson and Roger Surf Caster Ralph Bowman who for the Fisher, both of Philadelphia, also won mer­ Lower Merion Rod and Gun Club past two years has held the Eastern Distance chandise prizes in the Plug Accuracy and Ernest Jenkins of Narberth, Chairman of Record, broke that record by more than eight Surf Average events. the Fresh Water Activities Committee of this feet at the M. A. A. C. C. Tournament at Wil­ club, won first place in the Plug Casting for low Grove Park on June 9th. His new record Edward Behner, of Philadelphia, is Presi­ Accuracy event at the Third Annual Tourna­ is 578 ft. 10 inches. Ralph was also awarded dent of this club and Russell Krantzler, also ment of the M. A. A. O. C, at Willow Grove the President's Cup for scoring the highest of Philadelphia, is Secretary. During July Park on June 9th. Against a field of fifty number of points made by any individual and August, meetings of this Association are entrants in this event, Ernie's score was caster in the tournament. generally held at the Holmesburg Club highest and helped his Club to capture the House on the second Monday of the month. The casting team is out practicing every Horrocks-Ibbotson Cup, which was awarded Wednesday night to get in shape for the this year to the club whose members totalled Ocean City Cup Tournament on August 10th. the highest number of points based on the After winning this event four out of the past first three scores in all three classes in the five years the boys are pretty confident of Plug Casting for Accuracy event only. adding another victory to their now enviable The following additional casters from the record. Lower Merion Rod and Gun Club (listed Members who have not entered their alphabetically and not according to scores) catches in the Prize Fish Contest for 1940 placed and also won merchandise prizes should not neglect this opportunity to cash (principally fishing equipment) in various of in on some handsome awards. The competi­ the events at the Tournament: Edward tion so far this year is very keen but if you Anderson of Narberth, Howell I. Dietrich, want to keep it sharp fill out an entry card formerly of Philadelphia, Elmer Jenkins of for every eligible fish caught. The entry Narberth, Charles Lucas of Cynwyd, Charles should be made within seven days after the Spencer, Sr., and Charles Spencer, Jr., of fish is caught and the catch must be made Upper Darby. within three hundred miles of Philadelphia. The bait, fly and surf casters of the Lower Send all entries to the Secretary, Mr. Robert Merion Rod and Gun Club have had a busy Morris, 2728 W. Montgomery Ave., Philadel­ season. The weather man did not look down phia, Pa. with favor upon them during the weeks pre­ ceding the several casting tournaments in Gloucester County Game and Fish which they participated. Between showers, Association however, they were able to snatch a few Carl Leisy of Mantau, New Jersey, a mem­ moments of practice for these tournaments, ber of the Gloucester County Game and Fish which included in addition to the M. A. A. Association, tied with William Dur of C. C. Tournament, an intra-club tournament Holmesburg Fish & Game Protective Asso­ at the Annual Spring Picnic and Outing of ciation and with George DeGorgue of the the Lower Merion Rod and Gun Club, held Pennsylvania State Fish & Game Protective June 15th on Ridway Farm, Bethayres, Pa., Association for second place in the Plug Cas­ Allentown Call Photo and a plug casting tournament sponsored by ting For Accuracy event. Lorin Ott and 9- Finis to a stirring: scrap as X.eon Kellow of Allen- the Montgomery County Federation of year-old Donald Ott, sons of Lorin, both of town slips his lauding net under a trout in the 1-attle Lehigh on opening day. Sportsmen's Clubs at its First Annual Picnic 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 21

held on June 22nd at the new Montgomery ing to a statement made by President Nich­ Irwin Clemens, who is also a former Presi­ County Park, Green Lane, Pa. olson, who is now serving his twentieth con­ dent of the Montgomery County Federation With above-mentioned tournaments now secutive term, was the most successful outing of Sportsmen's Clubs, and Marie Flemming events of the past, the Lower Merion Rod ever held by the association. of Royersford, both aided greatly on the and Gun Club members will devote their Over four hundred members attended and Picnic Committee of the Federation, as it *eek ends for the remainder of the summer participated in the various sports, principle planned and carried out its plans for the to rod and REAL fishing instead of rod and among which were fly and plug casting man­ First Annual Picnic of the Federation. f eel casting. And at the end of the 1940 fish- aged by the Secretary John Michel, who is J ng season, the Fresh and Salt Water com­ also President of the Middle Atlantic Asso­ Upper Providence Fish, Game and Forestry mittees of this Club will award prizes to ciation of Casting Clubs. Association °lub members who catch the largest fish of All the "eats" were provided by the Vice- R. H. McFarland of Oaks, President of the twelve different fresh and salt water species. President Bill Burke, who loaded down the Upper Providence Fish, Game and Forestry George A. Purring of Narberth is President long tables with rare delicacies. One feature Association, won a handsome reel as first and Ellen A. Dietrich, now of Upper Darby, of this very important part of the outing con­ prize in Class "B" of the Fly Casting for J s Secretary of this Club. sisted of 30 odd hot baked hams. Accuracy event at the M. A. A. C. C. Tourna­ ment on June 9th. G. H. Smith and George Winners of events held at the L. M. R. and Secretary Michel announced that the Presi­ F. Bishop, both of Oaks, Pa., won merchan­ **• Club Annual Spring Picnic at Bethayres, dent is not well and would like the members J dise prizes in the Plug Casting for Accuracy une 15th: as well as his many friends to send him a event; while George Bishop also won a simi­ Plug Casting for Accuracy — Ernest and card to encourage a quick recovery. lar prize in the Plug Casting for Distance Elmer Jenkins of Narberth (tied). Perkiomen Valley Sportsmen's Association event. Plug Casting for Distance—Ernest Jenkins. At the M. A. A. C. C. Tournament on June Joseph Dietrick of Oaks is Secretary of this Surf Average—Walter P. Miesen, of Nar­ 9th, Harold Allenback, of the Perkiomen Val­ Association, which holds its meetings on the berth, former President of this Club. ley Sportsmen's Association, placed in the third Thursday of the month. During the Surf Distance—Walter P. Miesen. Plug Casting for Accuracy event and in the summer months, the outdoor meetings of this Quoits—Edward Merkle and Jas. Rennix, Plug Casting for Distance event as well. club, which are held on the Association's b oth of Narberth. Howard Shallcross of Graterford, the first club grounds, are generally followed by a President of the Montgomery County Federa­ "doggie roast" or "corn roast" and are well Pistol—Sherman Williams of Roxborough, attended. Philadelphia. tion of Sportsmen's Clubs and one of the Rifle — Walter Johnston of Roxborough, active workers of the Federation, is President Between fishing jaunts, "Mo-Skeeto" shoot­ Philadelphia. of the Perkiomen Valley Sportsmen's Asso­ ing keeps many of the club members busy ciation. John C. Markley of Schwenksville at Oaks. Water Boiling Contest—Charles Jenkins of is Secretary of this Association. This club Narberth. holds its meetings on the second Thursday of Wissahickon Field and Stream Association Trap Shooting—Bill Ridgway, of Bathayres; each month in the Borough Hall at Schwenks­ J This Club is also a newcomer this year ohn Albrecht, of Narberth; Dave Mawhanny, ville. to the M. A. A. C. C. Already, however, one °i Narberth; Edward Mergle, of Narberth; of its members, Ralph Slutte of Ambler, has Walter P. Miesen, of Narberth; Bill Shaw, of Royersford Hunting and Fishing Association made a mark for himself by tying for first A-rdmore, and Charles Latch, of Narberth Irwin R. Clemens of Royersford is Presi­ w place in Class "A" of the Fly Casting for ho tied for first place three times. dent, and Donald Maier, also of Royersford, Accuracy event and by taking second place is Secretary of the Royersford Hunting and in Class "B" of the Fly Casting for Distance Wonocacy Field and Stream Association Fishing Association, which holds its regular event at Willow Grove Park on Sunday, A newcomer this year to the Middle At­ monthly meetings on the second Thursday of June 9th. lantic Association of Casting Clubs is the each month in the Friendship Fire House, George J. Deems of Ambler is President, «tonocacy Field and Stream Association, Green Street, Royersford. w and Daniel E. Biddle, also of Ambler, is hich was ably represented by William Secretary of the Wissahickon Field and Sheridan, who placed first in Class "B" in Stream Association. the Plug Casting for Distance event on Sun­ day, June 9th, at Willow Grove Park. Members of this Association not only fish well, but hunt well. When they fish they Lawrence L. Lehr of Bethlehem, Pa., Sec­ catch fish, and when they hunt they kill tary of this Association, writes that this game. We just learned that last season the 0rG~nization's address is Mauch Chunk Road a President of this club got his first buck, an hd Bethlehem Avenue, Bethlehem, Pa. 8-pointer, which he killed in Sullivan County; while three other members of his hunting Montgomery County Fish and Game party also "bagged" bucks on that trip. They Protective Association are Andrew Lichier of Penlyn, Pa., who Hon. Geo. C. Corson, of Wyncote, is Presi­ brought down an 8-pointer; Jack Dempsey of dent of the Montgomery County Fish and Ambler who killed a 10-pointer, and Albert ^ame Protective Association. Eugene Miller, Colflsh, also of Ambler, who killed a 6- °* Norristown, is Secretary. This Association pointer. Andrew Lichier has killed four deer ^eets on the third Friday of March, June, so far, and is Chairman of the "Buck Club", October and December in the office of the an honorary branch of the Wissahickon Field jJeKalb Nurseries, DeKalb Street Pike near and Stream Association. To gain member­ he Germantown Pike, Norristown. ship in the "Buck Club", a member of the Charles Hughes and George Sinclair, of Wissahickon Field and Stream Association ;°rristown, both members of this Associa- must prove that he has MISSED A BUCK. 'on, were also members of the Montgomery Upon presenting such proof to the Club ^punty Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs members, the aspiring new member then lc submits to having his shirt tail cut off amidst nic Committee, which successfully worked appropriate "ceremonial rites", as he is taken ut plans for the First Annual Picnic of the into full membership in the "Buck Club". ederation, held on June 22nd in the Mont­ gomery County Park at Green Lane, Pa.

ennsylvania Fish and Game Protective Association Chinese Patient (on telephone): "Doctor, The annual picnic was held at Valley Creek what time you fixee teeth for me?" mid a beautiful setting just west of Valley Allentown Call Photo Dentist: "Two-thirty, all right?" orge. This picnic which is an annual affair Solid comfort on a basket as Robert ShaefFer of Chinese Patient: "Yes, tooth hurty, all s Allentown opens the season for trout at the Iron known as the "Trout Outing" and accord­ Bridse on the IJttle I^ehish. right, but what time you fixee?" 22 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY

CHILDREN'S FISHING PROJECT IT CAN HAPPEN HERE OPENED Perch, sunfish and bullheads are available By DON MILLER in large numbers for supervised fishing for MWOU know it's almost unbelievable," said features—feeling so secure in our nearness the children at Mountain Lake, near Scran- I Bob, leaning back in the big easy chair to civilization—and the possibility of danger ton. The pond has been amply stocked, H. M. and lighting his pipe—"that such a thing seemed very remote. Keber, superintendent of parks declared. could take place in peaceful old, civilized With our live bait we had no trouble at The season will continue until Labor Day. Pennsylvania"—-"now if it were somewhere all in snaring several good sized trout and Boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 15 in the Sierras or the Rockies"—"Well, it did", were congratulating ourselves on our wise years are eligible. I answered, "and only one hundred and fifty move when we noticed that a storm was The same regulations in effect the past four miles from home, too." brewing. Naturally, we were not alarmed years will prevail this, the fifth season. But­ The reason behind this strange conversa­ for as with everyone else we had met with tons which will be the required licenses will tion was a bit of harrowing experience that many of these storms while out on the be issued. Eighteen hundred buttons were both of us had gone through not five hours streams. distributed last year. before, and strange as it may seem it took We had just about finished packing our The catch per boy and girl will be limited place at Spring Creek, known as the "Fish­ equipment, and were starting the drive back, to two per day of legal length. Only barbless erman's Paradise", and situated in the Alle­ when tl.e storm broke. Well, we had seen hooks will be allowed, in order that those gheny Mountains of Pennsylvania, and only plenty t these storms, and this one seemed too small for the frying pan can be returned a few hours drive from well-populated dis­ no dif.erent from the others so we were to the water without being destroyed. tricts. ridvig rather unconcerned along when sud­ Fishing from shore will be permitted. It was about the middle of May, in the denly we heard a distant rumbling, sort of Boats are prohibited. The hours will be from midst of the trout season that we had driven like thunder, only it seemed to be growing 9 o'clock daily except Sunday. litLrer. up from Philadelphia to try our luck at the Fred J. Bonnert, caretaker at Robinson state's most popular trout fishing spot. Peering through the pelting rain I soon Park, and two assistants to be furnished by saw what was causing it—about fifty feet in However, due to reasons which we were the recreational division of the WFA will be front of us the whole side of the cliff seemed in charge. unable to diagnose at the time—we had not to be tumbling down into the roadbed. Large met with much success. Probably because we ooulders heavy enough to severely damage The purpose of supervised fishing is to were too anxious—and like lots of other fish­ the car if not completely disable it—accom­ "teach good sportsmanship, the art of fishing ermen who visit the Project for the first time, panied by a dearth of smaller stones, mud and to keep the children off the streets," we did not realize that it was just as neces­ and small trees were tumbling down the Kerber declared. sary here as in other streams to put forth mountainside in a continuous torrent. We the best skill and judgment to catch trout, could see that it was impassable and with even though we knew that there were plenty the creek rising rapidly we had only one re­ HUMES ACTIVE IN ALLEGHENY of them in there. Unfortunately—at the time course, to go back without delay. we had thought it only necessary to drop CLUBS any old kind of fly in the water and the Being unable to turn around I put the car trout would be waiting to gobble it right up, in reverse and started back. We had gone One of the best known men in Western but we found to our sorrow that they just about a hundred yards or so when we heard Pennsylvania firemen's and sportsmen's af­ weren't built that way. another rumbling, similar to the first. We fairs, Jesse L. Humes of 1301 Freeport Road, knew what it was this time without any Natrona Heights, celebrated his 42nd birth­ So, after spending all of one day at the doubt and with the knowledge came the day recently. Project we decided—since we only had one realization—we were trapped. "Jess," as he is familiarly known to the more day to spend there—that it would be Hardly daring to look we stopped the car thousands of volunteer firemen and sports­ wiser to sacrifice our pride and go down­ and looked back. About fifty feet to our rear men in the Western Pennsylvania district, stream—where there were no restrictions— was another landslide—an exact replica of has devoted more time to affairs of these and use live bait. Accordingly, the next day the other. Up to this time the cliff wall be­ two groups probably than any other one downstream we went and little did we think tween the two had icmained unbroken—but man. A member of Highland Hose Company of what the fates had in store for us. we knew that it was just a matter of minutes for more than 20 years, he served as its The road leading downstream winds along until the whole side of the cliff might be­ president for nine years. He was first presi­ with a steep cliff on one side, and the creek come loosened and come tumbling down dent of Tarentum Fire Department and serv­ on the other—constructed of hard clay, and about us. ed as president of the Western Pennsylvania only wide enough for one car, with now and Endeavoring to remain calm, we debated Firemen's Association in 1935-36. then a clearing to enable two cars to pass. As whether it would be wiser to leave the car President of Tarentum Sportsmen's Club I recall it now—we hardly noticed these and 'dig for it" up the side of the cliff as in for three years, he also served as secretary some places it was accessible. While we were of the club for five years. He is a past thus debating—the rain—suddenly as it began president of Allegheny County Sportsmen's —stopped. We both gave a deep sigh of re­ League and for seven years was secretary of lief realizing that the worst part was over the county organization. He also served as a —and tackled the next problem—how to get member of the legislative committee of the out. county organization for a number of years. The pile of debris in front of the car was about four feet deep and ten feet wide— and we could see that it would be quite a TROUT OF MICHIGAN job to get over it. However, we decided to risk it and although the car was at about a One of the most fascinating treatises on forty-five degree angle as we pulled slowly trout and their history that has come to our over the barricade—we made it and were attention is "Trout of Michigan" by Harold soon speeding merrily on our way—with a Hinsdill Smedley of Muskegon, Michigan. full creel, and a story for the boys back The author delves into nicknames for trout, home. events leading up to the passing of the Mich­ igan grayling, often termed the most beauti­ ful fish in the world, the brook trout, rain­ Sally (on phone): "Oh, Betty, you must bow trout, brown trout, and also discusses come over and see the gorgeous engagement flies. ring Al gave me." Unusual sidelights to trout fishing are al­ Betty. "Don't be silly. I wore it all last ways hightly interesting and Mr. Smedley It's an easy stream to fish. year." does himself proud in this 49 page treatise. r 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 21!

But, believe it or not, there is a growing Members of the following affiliated clubs fraternity of sports fishermen who purposely of the Federation arose at the club roll call: handicap themselves, like doing it and may Boulder Valley Sportsmen's Association, kill only three or four outstanding fish a sea­ Douglass Rod and Gun Association, Hunting­ son. For them, the sport is the thing, and don Valley Fish and Game Protective Asso­ we have noted in recent years a steady trend ciation, Lansdale Sportsmen's Club, Lower in this direction, one of the most encouraging Merion Rod and Gun Club, Montgomery signs for improved fishing in our intensively County Fish, Game and Forestry Association, fished waters. The artificial lure, fished on Perkiomen Valley Sportsmen's Association, either casting rod or fly rod, fits perfectly Pottstown Sportsmen's Club, Royersford into this sport fishing picture. Bass caught Hunting and Fishing Association, Souderton are usually hooked in the mandibles or jaws Game, Fish and Forestry Association, Upper and may be released with a minimum of Perkiomen Fish, Game and Forestry Asso­ injury. ciation, Upper Providence Fish, Game and Forestry Association and Wissahickon Field Yes, "Dog Day" fishing is tough but the and Stream Association. tougher it is the more satisfaction may be had when you score a catch. Go to it! The guest speaker Calvin Althouse (former principal of Central High School) provided a 'delightful combination of witticism, satire and earnest reality in his remarks on the WILL RAISE FISH subje"+ of "Sportsmanship". His audience The Conewago Rod and Gun Club has followed Mm, convulsed though dubious, begun construction f a fish-rearing Jam on wnile he told them that "Marksmanship was the Snipe Creek off .he Maytown road, at the first developed by an old farmer who cul­ Roland farm, three miles from Elizabethtown, tivated ar. unusual skill in the art of hitting Lancaster County. Fifteen members of the the coal bucket in a country store with his club have been on the job, and other mem­ tobacco juice". In the more sober moments bers are asked to volunteer for this work. of his address. Mr. Althouse commended the Anybody wishing to help should ask George efforts of the Federation and lauded its Doyle for information, club officials said. "gathering together of so many organizations" Scoring on largemouth bass with the plug. This dam, when completed, will be 140 yards to promote the "enjoyment of today as well long, 30 yards wide, and five feet deep at the as of youth and tomorrow"—"to preserve breast. It will be constructed of railroad ties, natural life, to abate stream pollution", and "DOG DAY PLUGGING" and it is planned to make the spillway of to encourage activities out in the "fresh air concrete. and sunshine", where sportsmen "learn to (Continued from Page 7) take time out to live in the simplicity and are taken to prevent this. When water tem­ The purpose of the dam is the raising of largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish for re­ cleanliness" that are the earmarks of sports­ peratures are unusually high, bass placed in manship as well as of Americanism. , a live net or on a stringer along the shore- stocking in the Conewago Creek, near Eliza­ bethtown. Congratulations for the success of the ban­ or subjected to the same procedure in a quet program, which included a "snappy" Since its organization as a club last March, ^°at, die quickly. Carried in creel, after floor show and orchestral accompaniment, having in all probability been killed after the Conewago Rod and Gun Club has been c very active. Fish and game have been se­ with dancing following the dinner are due apture, and subjected to temperatures that the Chairman of the Banquet Committee, rnay hover near the hundred mark, they be­ cured from the State; the public relations committee has done excellent work; the con­ Forrest Henry, of Red Hill, as well as How­ come rancid in a short time. Apart from ard C. Shallcross, George Sinclair, Charles the danger in eating spoiled or slightly spoil- servation committee has been on the job, and e 240 members have been brought into the Hughes and Merle Fleming, all of Norris­ \ d fish, the waste of game fish upon which town. I a sporting value of "five dollars a pound" has organization. been justly placed constitutes an almost un­ All sportsmen from Elizabethtown and sur­ pardonable offense against conservation. rounding communities are urged to join the COOPERATION URGED AT INDIANA club. The dues of one dollar will entitle one It is to be recalled, in caring for your c to a paid-up membership to September 1, MEETING atch, that the gills are among the first 1941 (fourteen months for one dollar). organs to go bad. Hence it is a sensible A new record for attendance of a regular Policy to string your fish, remove the gills monthly meeting of the Indiana County Fish and eyes and wrap in moistened thick paper and Game Association was established at the county court house when over 400 of the near °efore placing in the creel. Wax paper is MONTGOMERY CLUBS AT ANNUAL also good. There are those who contend that 600 members listened and saw movies during after fish have been properly cleaned for BANQUET the two and a half hours stay in the court carrying, the dryer they are kept the better. A record crowd of more than 400 men and room. ™ vital importance, however, is removal of women were in attendance at the annual The future of last night's confab was the those parts that are most apt to go bad in a banquet of the Montgomery County Federa­ interest_,.g movie-talk by Rolland Heffel- hurry. There is one angle to cleaning fish tion of Sportsmen's Clubs, which was held finger, Division Superintendent of the Penn­ at the time of taking that raises a hurdle, sylvania Game Commission, on conservation. atl in the William Penn Inn, Sumneytown and d that is, when a possible record bass or DeKalb Pikes. Mr. Heffelfinger pointed out the need of con­ Wall-eye is caught. Naturally, the fisherman, servation and the help requested of true if he is planning to enter it in a fishing con­ William Stoneback of Colmar, newly- sportsmen in protecting the game and fish test, wants the live weight recorded to make elected President of the Federation, was the 11 of the state inasmuch as only 154 men are eligible. An inexpensive pocket scale host and the following former presidents of paid to protect the game and fish sought by solves that one, and should a camera be this organization were present: Howard a over one million hunters and fishermen an­ yailable, the entire procedure may be car­ Shallcross of Norristown, John A. Miller of nually. Color movies dealt largely with the ded through to the satisfaction of all con­ Narberth, and Irwin Clemens of Royersford; four state game farms. cerned. as well as former Acting Secretary J. Warren Ziegler of Norristown, former First Vice- Previous to Mr. Heffelfinger's informative Generally speaking, August fishing is far President Victor Nyce of Souderton, and Ira speech, President Andy Stahura introduced trom tops, but to the ardent bass fisherman, J. Mills of Graterford, Supervisor of Bantam Dean Davis, Indiana and Cambria County Passing up a month because it may not offer and Game Bird Propagation. Also in attend­ Fish Warden, who asked local fishermen and he best in possibilities is an unheard-of pro­ ance were various State and County officials, fisherwomen to "treat the farmer white." cedure. Certainly the handicaps imposed by including the Montgomery County Park O. M. Pinkerton, local game protector, also "atural environmental conditions swing the Commissioners who have been responsible gave a few short remarks in appreciation of balance sharply in favor of our quarry, be it for the completion of the beautiful new the association's cooperation with him in his Stnallmouth, largemouth, wall-eye or pickerel. Sportsmen's Park at Green Lane, work. 24 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY County Sportsmen's Association; Ray Mc- The Treasurer reported a balance of $79.01. TEST-TUBE BATTING FOR Kissick, game protector of Armstrong county; A bill for the secretary's expenses since the Walter Miller, secretary, Armstrong County last meeting amounting to $5.10 was ordered CATTERPILLAR Sportsmen's Association; Bert Welch, refuge paid. (Continued from Page 5) keeper of Armstrong county; James Banning, Some correspondence was read by Chair­ material is too new to make positive state­ fish warden of Fayette county, and Mr. man Neiger. ments, very good reports are coming in re­ Barner, deputy game warden. There was a discussion of the prevailing garding it. As yet it is available only in the Ray McKissick, former game protector in conditions of the sportsmen's clubs of the heavier weights. It resembles soaked gut in Westmoreland county, who now holds a division. It was noted that membership is appearance, ties knots easily and appears to similar position in Armstrong county, was decreasing. be very strong. We would appreciate letters greeted by the sportsmen before the speakers It was moved by Mr. Bleiler and seconded from readers who have had experience with of the evening were introduced. McKissick either or both of these new materials. by Mr. Haegele that the following resolution expressed his delight in being able to attend be adopted: this function and tendered the invitation of • E. I. Du Pont De Nemours and Company. Plastics Resolved, That the Northeast Division of Department. Arlington, New Jersey. Armstrong organizations to have Westmore­ land clubs visit with them. the Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs in meet­ ing April 19, 1940 recommend that the Presi­ Fred McKean, member of the state fish dent and Secretary of the Pennsylvania Fed­ BANNER BANQUET IN commission, headed the list of speakers. He eration of Sportsmen's Clubs convene the WESTMORELAND dwelt primarily on the passing of Welty M. Board of Directors as soon as conveniently Dom, the great friend and champion of West­ possible and complete the appointment of all Termed one of the most successful ban­ moreland's sportsmen. He told of the accom­ committees called for under the by-laws. quets in the history of the group was the plishments, and the wonderful work he had gathering in Greensburg recently of more Be it further resolved that the Directors done in helping to promote the Greenwalt formulate a definite program of action for than 375 sportsmen, mostly members of clubs dam. affiliated with the Westmoreland County the future of the organization and propose Sportsmen's Association. W. L. Treager, county farm agent, followed a modern and adequate set of by-laws, that will include a permanent committee to handle There were 53 county clubs represented, McKean and after complimenting the group on the good fellowship in evidence, he made the sale of the Wildlife stamps from year in addition to several from Allegheny and to year and also include provisions for a Armstrong Counties. an appeal to them to "treat the farmer right" in order to gain greater hunting privileges. permanent committee to cover organization Following early entertainment the group activities for the future. joined in singing America before the invoca­ Delivering the address of the evening was Be it further resolved that the by-laws be tion was announced by Rev. R. Vincent Hart- Rev. R. Vincent Hartman, who, after putting amended to include a permanent committee man, pastor of the First Reformed Church, of his listeners in a happy frame of mind with on credentials and provide instructions to the New Kensington, who asked that a minute a number of jokes, branched off into several organizations including all the information of silence be observed while taps were play­ points of vital importance to the success of to be requested from the delegate to qualify ed in memory of the late Welty M. Dom, one hunting and fishing. them properly at the state convention. of the outstanding sportsmen and game con­ He dwelt on the fact that one of the major Be it further resolved that a more efficient servationist of the county. Mr. Hartman also problems confronting the sportsmen was in method of keping all member organiaztions delivered the invocation in the absence of ridding the woods of so-called "game hogs." fully informed of what takes place at the W. L. "Bert" Wright, retired division game His second point was that fishermen must state convention and Directors meetings be supervisor, who was unable to attend due to band together with the Fish Commission in included in these new by-laws. Motion ap­ illness. wiping out another hazard: "The careless and proved. William Achtzehn presided at the meeting over-anxious fisherman" who causes "untold It was moved by Mr. Haegele and seconded and introduced the following sportsmen and destruction." by Mr. Bleiler that the secretary send a copy called upon a number of them to speak: R. S. of this resolution to the President and Sec­ Cooper, vice-president, Southwestern Divis­ retary of the Pennsylvania Federation of ion; C. W. Ward, president, Pittsburgh Cast­ Sportsmen's Clubs. Motion approved. ing Club; J. W. Johnson, deputy game pro­ NORTHEAST DIVISION FEDERATION It was moved by Dr. Hippensteel and sec­ tector; Sam Henderson, Westmoreland County MEETS onded by Mr. Haegele that the secretary fish warden; W. E. Guckert, secretary, Alle­ write to Rev. Samuel J. Truscott expressing gheny County League; Dr. A. B. French, A meeting of the Northeast Division was the appreciation of the Northeast Division of president of Wilkinsburg club; Jess W. Spiker, called to order by Chairman John L. Neiger his efforts on our behalf during the past president of McKeesport club; Harris G. at 8:10 P. M. Roll call—Officers: Chairman, years. Motion approved. Breth, of Pittsburgh; Lloyd Steiner, fly spe­ J. L. Neiger; Vice Chairman, W. Quick; Sec­ The following men were proposed and en­ cialist; John S. Shuler, traveling game pro­ retary,' R. W. Steventon; Treasurer, F. S. dorsed by the division for Fish Commission­ tector; Sol McClure, Wilkinsburg club; Wil­ Birchard. Counties—Carbon, I. J. Bleiler, er: John L. Neiger, Willard Quick, and James liam Matthews, refuge keeper; James Sim­ delegate; R. W. Steventon, alternate; Lacka­ W. Strohl. mons, retired fish warden; Dr. Reitell, former wanna, J. L. Neiger, delegate; Luzerne, F. E. The secretary was instructed to convey member of fish commission; O. M. Deibler, Haegele, delegate; Monroe, W. Quick, dele­ these endorsements to Governor James, and former commissioner of fisheries; A. E. Bitt- gate; Pike, W. J. Schoonover, alternate; Sus, the President and Secretary of the Pennsyl­ ner, Allegheny county; William Berlin, West­ quehanna,, B. J. Kane, delegate; F. S. Birch­ vania Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs. moreland clerk of courts; John Dent, state ard, alternate; Wayne, O. E. Hippensteel. senator; Dr. J. R. Madden, state representa­ delegate; N. C. Rarnham, alternate; Wyoming, tive; James Lovett, state representative; Dr. J. W. Strohl, delegate. Prosperity, for most of us, is only being J. R. Madden, R. C. Yake, Harry Soles and The minutes of the last meeting wtre ap­ able to pay a little more for things we I. G. Moyer, past presidents of Westmoreland proved as read. shouldn't buy anyway.

The Fish Commission's exhibit at the Philadelphia Sportsmen's and Motor Boat Show this year. 25 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER

MILTON SPORTSMEN WILL RAISE The group discussed the renewing of the FAVORS INCREASE IN LICENSE lease for the junior fish pond at the lower FEE PHEASANTS end of town for this summer. Dear Mr. Editor Plans for a picnic July 28 were laid by Discussion also was held on the river pol­ I have read with considerable interest the the Milton Fish and Game Association at a lution problem and Kenneth M. Koch presi­ article by Gardner Wells in your December meeting in the Moose Hall on South Front dent of the club, reported on the progress of issue on increasing the fishing license fee. Street. the project to eliminate the pollution. A sum I suppose that about every fisherman has Members of the association heard a report of $129,000 is now available for the mine- dumped into the same situation as described on the construction of two ringneck pheasant sealing project and materials and equipment by Wells but why pick on the kids if they pens. One pen, capable of holding 50 birds, are being placed at the headwaters of the beat you to it. On the contrary, let's feel has been erected at the Blue Spruce Tourist Proud and encourage more juveniles to fish river so that operations will begin some­ Camp south of town and the other, for 100 time before July 1. The program will re­ With "pin and pole"; that's a fine start for birds, has been placed at Marsh Park. the sportsmen-to-be and don't forget that quire two years to complete. The pheasants are expected to arrive on they are the ones that will be buying fishing Ninety per cent of the pollution has been licenses in years to come and supporting con­ July 1 and it is planned to hold them in the pens until after hunting season when they attributed by government engineers to mine servation and improvement plans now form­ seepage, while ten per cent is said to be ed and being executed. will be released in the territory surrounding Milton for the benefit of local hunters. caused by industrial wastes. The main argument for increasing the license fee fifty cents per year is to provide good fishing in the future for the "poor fish­ erman" and stop so far as possible the buying Up of stream property by private interests thereby restricting public fishing grounds. I known that any proposed increase in fees is looked upon skeptically but when one knows what the money will be spent for and how it will improve your sport, it makes the dose easier to take. When the subject was first advanced there were many "doubting Thomases" on the possibility of its success so it was planned to explain the subject im­ partially to the members of a Fish and Game Club (350 members) in a rural community and obtain their reaction by vote. Surprising as it may seem the club voted unanimously in favor of the increase in spite of the fact that many members were unemployed and others below the higher brackets of income. Later the subject was discussed and voted on by the Schuylkill County Sportsmen's Association and was approved without a dis­ senting voice. It is positively fixed that the money accrue- ing from the increase be definitely earmarked for the buying of water property, building of dams, protection of shorelines and sup- Porting improvements. There is no fund now available to affect improvements and it must come from license fees. It would seem that the sportsmen of the State can take unusual Pride in supporting this, their own plan, and thereby tremendously improving fishing con­ ditions in the state for now and ever after. Very sincerely yours, Charles C. Squire, Pine Grove.

LATROBE SPORTSMEN PURCHASE FARM The 60 acre farm of Phillip Roth in Derry Township, near the No. 7 Schoolhouse, was Purchased by the Latrobe Sportsmen's Asso­ ciation. The farm, containing two streams of water, a number of pine trees and other trees, may be easily converted into an ideal spot for outdoor sports of different kinds. Erection of skeet shooting paraphernalia and a rifle range is contemplated by the sportsmen and they also plan to develop the fishing possibilities. Building of a cabin and other improve­ ments will be given early consideration. There are 152 members of the Sportsmen's Association and they expect to be able to go through with their newest undertaking with Exceedingly heavy in eirth was this 86 inch, 8 pound 8 ounce walleyed pike taken last year in the Susoue anna River near WrlghtsviUe on a nightcrawler and spinner trolling combination It was little trouble providing full cooperation is <• St "> RevKline™ot Wrightsvillc. a member of the Susquehanna Kish and Game Association, who accorded. is shown with his catch. L 26 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JL'LY

CARLISLE FIELD DAY ANNOUNCED and New Cumberland clubs for July 20th, and last throughout the day. Gate their contests this year. prizes will be awarded to those holding ad­ Scheduled for July 20th at the Carlisle 2. Fly Casting mission tickets. Re-entries will be permitted Country Club grounds the program for the (a) Distance—Open to all whose equip­ in each event, with nominal fees being Second Annual Field Day of the Carlisle Fish charged for each entry and re-entry. and Game Association has been announced ment qualifies under "Skish" rules. as follows: Average of three longest casts made in three minutes of casting without For Shooters— time allowance for lost flies and no CLEARFIELD CASTING SCHOOL 1. Shotgun events cast to count unless fly is attached. (a) Trap shooting under national rules, .(b) "Skish" fly accuracy-Under "Skish" CLOSES shooters competing for prize awards rules with exception that left hand On Tuesday evening, April 30, the fly cast­ under Lewis classification system. and "flip" casts will be substituted ing school that was conducted by the Y. M. (b) Grouse hunt—a novelty trap evuvt for roll casting, the latter being im­ C. A., in Clearfield, closed their third annual in which targets are unexpectedly practical for land casting. Time al­ school. The work of the school this year far thrown as shooter walks toward lowance for lost fly. surpassed the work of any previous year, and trap, prizes being awarded as above. For Archers—National 40-yard course, with more people availed themselves of this op­ (c) Skeet, shot under national rules portunity to either learn or practice their prizes awarded under classification sys­ with prizes as in above events. favorite sport than ever before. (d) Mo-Skeet-O, a miniature trap tem similar to that in trap events. The school was conducted on four consecu­ shooting event particularly attrac­ Dart Throwing—Prizes to high scorers as in tive Tuesday evenings with all of the casting tive to women and younger shooters archery. who shun recoil and costs of the done on the "Y" gym floor. The work of By general agreement the Carlisle, Harris­ regular trap events. Prizes for bet­ the first two Tuesdays was practice casting. burg, Mechanicsburg, and New Cumberland ter scores. In this work the members of the school clubs have agreed to abandon the former practiced casting at various objects placed 2. Rifle events (National Rifle Association plan of classifying contests as "Professional" around the floor, and were instructed by a rules) and "Amateur" on a basis of their winning large number of competent fly casters. The (a) 50-yard prone, .22-caliber only; an awarde in a former contest, and will work of the last two Tuesday evenings was three prizes. award prizes in the casting contests on a divided between practice casting and com­ (b) 50-yard off-hand, .22-caliber only; classification of all contestants based on the petitive casting. three prizes. principle involved in the Lewis plan used In the competitive casting five targets were 3. Pistol—25 yard, slow fire, .22-caliber in trap-shooting. placed around the floor at different positions only. Three prizes. To stimulate inter-club rivalry and promote and distances and each target was obstructed For Anglers— the development of more and better casters with either trees or rocks. Each person com­ 1. Bait Casting in each club, to put a premium on the more peting in the contest was required to make (a) Distance casting—open to all using expert casters coaching the tyros, and ulti­ five casts at each target. Every hit counted equipment complying with "Skish" mately to conserve fish forage by encourag­ a point and after four complete rounds a rules, except that micrometered ing the use of artificial lures, the Carlisle possible score of 100 could be made. The diameter test will be substituted Fish and Game Association is this year in­ competing casters made two rounds on both for 9-pound lift test. troducing inter-club team competition, with closing Tuesdays. Competition in the contest (b) "Skish" accuracy—National "Skish" an attractive plaque award to the team hav­ was very keen and after the close of the rules prevailing except as above. ing the highest "team" score in the casting school the following winners were announc­ No cast will be scored in which events. The "team" will comprise the ed. five anglers from each club whose scores the rod tip in the act of casting First place—Maurice Hartsock. describes a circle. This rules out are highest in each of the four casting events. Any persons wishing to compete for their Second place—Ralph H. Barton. the whirling dervish form, but not Third place—"Corky" Conner and F. J. the side-swipers. Considerations of club should notify their club secretary who Livingston (tie). safety to spectators have prompted will in turn certify all names of such bonafide the adoption of this rule by the members to one or another of the members The Y. M. C. A. was very well pleased with Carlisle, Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg of an eligibility committee consisting of C. the manner in which the school was con­ W. Fink, Carlisle, Charles Fox, New Cumber­ ducted this year and the large number of land, and Elwood Straub, of Mechanicsburg, individuals who participated. There were 54 Pa., so as to reach the committee not later members enrolled in the school. than July 20th. Inter-team competition will also occur under similar rules in the rifle and trap- WINDBER PICNIC shooting events, with beautiful plaques being Approximately 125 persons attended a awarded in each. In each of the three classes picnic of the Windber Sportsmen's Associa­ of events, the winning club will retain pos­ tion held at the club's trout nursery at session of the appropriate plaque for one year Ogletown. Lunch was served in the open when it is to be placed in competition again. and inspection made of the nursery property- Should any club win a particular plaque two The local sportsmen have cleaned and drain­ years in succession, it will retain the plaque ed the big spring nursery ponds and also permanently. The Carlisle sportsmen feel improved and enlarged the dam where the that this feature of inter-club competition trout are placed after having reached suf­ will put a premium on the development of ficient size. young casters and shooters whereas individ­ There are at present 125,000 fingerling trout ual competition often operates to form a received from the federal hatcheries in the closed circle of a few more skillful who spring rearing ponds. zealously guard against any imparting of skill The outing was one of a series designed to to others, and further that there will be more finance the recent expenses incident to re­ widespread pleasure afield and perhaps less habilitating the nursery. Blain Barefoot, crippled game. president of the association, was in charge of Should readers of The Angler seek infor­ the affair. Many Johnstown sportsmen at­ mation about the Carlisle Field Day they tended. should correspond with either D. A. Hein, general chairman, or C. W. Fink, publicity Allentown Call Pholo chairman, both of Carlisle, Penna. Both will A youth's mustache was the pioneer of the The fiimoUB little Lehigh yielded this fine 32 ineli be glad to answer any queries relative to the installment plan—a little "down" and then a rainbow trout to the angling skill of Ralph Cress- nian of Allentown this season. events which will get under way at 10 A. M., little more each week. 1940 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 27

OUTLINE PURPOSE OF TARENTUM 'Till at last only one sarpint was alive For the information of our readers each point, For I'd killed nine hundred and sixty-five. as overheard in discussions, will be placed CLUB So I let this fishy varmint go as follows: The Purpose of the Tarentum District And he's livin' yet, this fact I know, 1. Trout food. One of the trout caught Sportsmen's Club, Inc., is to aid and foster For don't folks see 'im every year or so? during the contest contained 19 minnows. by education of the public, to promote, aid While his stomach was packed to overflowing and encourage non-partisan legislation and Noah an' Jonah an' Cap'n John Smith the brownie was greedy enough to strike at Policies of conservation of our natural re­ Each heard this true story for it was no a plug and get caught. Among the 19 min­ sources, especially the conservation and myth. • nows was a small sucker measuring SVi restoration of our game, fish, forests and When fishermen gathered they were quiet as inches in length. Incidentally the trout itself streams; to promote good fellowship and a clam was only 15 inches in length. higher ethics among sportsmen; to conduct For they couldn't equal the story of old Sun shoots, and target practice with firearms; "Sea-Sarpint" Sam! For the person who has walked along the to conduct social affairs and sports events; pond it is not unusual to see schools of min­ to provide facilities for social enjoyment to nows numbering several score. Apparently *ts members. the abundant natural food which the stocked RICHARDSON WINS FISHING trout had was one reason why the catch was CONTEST so small. The limestone water and the heavy water grasses which also find their home in "SEA-SARPINT" SAM Lack of fish prevented Ben Franklin's the pond serves as a haven and breeding champion fishermen from completing the place for untold forms of aquatic insect life. Noah an' Jonah an' Cap'n John Smith, contest which took place along the banks of Each told his puny but picturesque myth, Neshannock Creek, between the East Wash­ 2. Water area. It is our guess that the But I aims ter tell you a story so tall ington and South Jefferson Street bridges at pond contains about five acres of water area. As to make their fishin' tictaks seem small. New Castle, only four legal sized fish being With no one able to use a boat the trout Now Noah he had backin' for the Lawd was taken. could find an excellent haven in the center on his side Robert Richardson was adjudged the win­ where it was too far for the anglers, with And old hitch-hiker Jonah all he did was ner with two fish, six inches in length or their artificial lures, to cast. take a ride. over, catching the largest which was a nice 3. Water temperature. A liberal planting And Cap'n John Smith, the wust of the lot, little rainbow trout. He also snared a sucker. of weeping willow trees along the banks of Was the fibberest-fisherman, believe it or John Matteo took second place honors with the pond would not only serve to reduce the not. two suckers, although one of them was a temperature of the water during the sum- * knew the old ramrod in Indian fightin' time, scant six inches long. • mer months but it would also add untold And if he'd ever caught one fish I wouldn't Around 75 boys took part in the contest beauty to other recreation seekers in the park have writ this rhyme. and if there had been any more fish in the area. Trees, when they are small, may prove stream, they would have caught them, as an obstacle to the fly or bait caster, but their "hy their stories are low down, trivial, small, they had the fishing area pretty well covered. foliage provides a place for insect life which It's a wonder St. Pete let them in, one and falls into the water and furnishes food for all. Quite a number of spectators watched the the fish. "°w I reckon you're waitin' to hear my true proceedings and offered encouragement to story> their favorites but that didn't bring in any But I warn you beforehand it's gruesome more fish. 'n gory. All kinds of fishing tackle was put to use by the boys, some of whom had real layouts, " happened way back, I was just ninety-five, with fishing boots, creels, and what have you. And sea-sarpint varmints were then much For the most part, however, the common, alive. ordinary schoolboy variety of fishing tackle They overturned ships, drank up rivers 'n was found. streams, They promise a real "blitzgreig" on the Blew smoke through their nostrils, let out quarry pond fish later, and some fine catches weird screams. are expected although there is quite an argu­ Everyone was 'fraid of them all except me, ment among fishermen as to the actual worth And when they came around I said, of a carp. They provide sport, however, and "Piddle-d-dee". that is what the boys are after more than hy I g0t so dern recklous I didn't give a anything else. damn, Coach Emmett Gillaspie presided, and was And thereafter folks called me "Sea- assisted by William Wallace, Paul Cuba, and Sarpint" Sam! James Bowman of the Ben Franklin faculty. Fish Warden "Rosy" White was chief judge, ne bait that I used for these overgrown but his duties were rather limited, the task snails of picking the winner involving no hair­ Was a dozen or two of sixty-foot whales. splitting. tied 'em high on a mountain peak And let 'em hang for most a week. n^ though the smell nearly knocked me down CEDAR RUN LAUDED AS sar n Tv, Pi ts came from miles around. TROUT WATER ney weren't afeared of man or beast Comments Chas. H. Nehf in his livewire T And they wanted in on this little feast. "en I'd wade in with my bowie knife column "Field Sports" in the Allentown ^ And stab and swear (that was the life!) Morning Call: ne blooa ran thick, the varmints screamed, One major item which the trout fishing •j^Uch a nightmare you've never dreamed. contest, sponsored by the Witwer-Jones ^ey charged at me sometimes ten at a time, sporting goods store, brought to the atten­ Souths open and smellin' of carnage and tion of local fishermen was the possibility grime of having Cedar Creek pond as an approved Th ' nen I'd grab one quick-like by the tail, and state stocked trout water. Cedar Creek itself is listed for a stocking of trout but not w^Pin around and watch it sail. Right proud of this nice brown trout taken at the *Jy our fights lasted a month or more the pond. Spring Creek Project last year was five year old Could it support fish? Many observations Joseph Bogle, Jr. He had accompanied his father, And the rivers filled with their blood and Joseph Bogle, Sr., of Milton on the day he scored gore. made would prove the value of such a move. the catch. IS PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JULY

HERE N THERE N ANGLERDOM

Central Pennsylvania sportsmen are look­ Britt Butler of Robertsdale mixes plugging There's a musky of stupendous proportions ing forward to two outstanding events during with his trolling in fishing the Raystown in French Creek that has fishermen in the the next six weeks, the annual field day of Branch of the Juniata River and reports ex­ vicinity of Saegertown agog, according to the Carlisle Sportsmen's Association, to be cellent results. Last season he took a hefty Charles Apple of Saegertown. He writes: held at the Carlisle County Club on July 20. smallmouth bass, 18% inches in length and "The truth is I have been after this large and the field day sponsored by the Harris­ 14 inches in girth on a plug with scale finish. 'lunge for five years and had him hooked burg, Mechanicsburg and New Cumberland He also landed three wall-eyed pike, 25 three times but he always broke loose. This Sportsmen's Associations on August 17. The inches, 17 inches and 21 inches in length 'lunge was in captivity in a fountain at the event on August 17 will be held at Hempt's while trolling with a weighted June bug Saegertown Inn, 15 or more years ago and Meadow along the Yellow Breeches Creek, spinner. The catches were scored late in was finally released, but has grown to a size and the program includes 16 shooting, casting October. that varies according to the fisherman who and archery events in which prizes having a sees him. I would judge him to weigh 35 total value of $530 will be awarded. In event pounds at least. His home is under a large of rain the field day will be held the fol­ Fishing in Lake Wallenpaupack, R. Frank sunken stump in a deep hole of about 12 lowing Saturday. To reach the scene of the Kramer, Webster Heiser and Bud Walborn feet of water. He is very shrewd and has meet, four miles from Harrisburg in Cum­ of Orwigsburg scored a catch of 14 walleyed gained quite a lot of popularity around this berland County, roads will be marked from pike that averaged between 20 and 21 inches section. Smaller muskellunge have been Lemoyne, White Hill, New Cumberland, in length one day last season. caught in French Creek at this point but he Mechanicsburg and the junction of the Car­ is still at large". lisle and Gettysburg pikes. Events scheduled include standard trap shooting, bounding rab­ The heaviest brown trout reported from bit target for shotguns, two running deer and Blair County streams last season by Warden One of the largest walleyed pike to be a rising bear target for large bore rifles at Lincoln Lender of Bellwood, was a Piney taken in recent years from Loyalsock Creek 100 yards, pistol shooting, a block shoot, Creek fish taken by Mike Conrad, expert in Lycoming County was caught last year archery, three small bore targets including a minnow fisherman of Ganister. His catch by Dallas Stine of Slabtown. Although blind, standard range, and fly and bait casting, both measured 26 inches in length and tipped the Mr. Stine's greatest satisfaction in life comes distance and accuracy. A good commissary scales at 7 pounds 8 ounces. He also landed with fishing. He scored the catch in the deep and free parking are features, and it is sug­ a number of other trout measuring from 15 hole opposite the Game Farm, the fish meas­ gested that participants in the various events to 17 inches in length in this limestone ured 29% inches in length and tipping the bring their own arms and fishing tackle. stream. scales at 7 pounds 10 ounces while his son Ammunition will be sold on the grounds. was rowing the boat from which he fished- Chas K. Fox, secretary of the New Cumber­ Several other fine fish taken by Lycoming land Sportsmen's Association, and Field Day anglers were reported last season. D. L- Chairman this year reports that 3000 sports­ Crandall of Duboistown caught a walleyed men, including some of the best casters and pike 25% inches in length and weighing 6 shots in the state, attended last year's field pounds 8 ounces while fishing in Lake day. Nepahwin, Bradford County. Pine Creefc yielded a 24% inch walleye to Ralph Holtman of South Williamsport while Donald Gouldy of Williamsport scored with a 20 inch small' mouth in the same stream. It weighed 4 Although an ardent user of artificials. pounds 7 ounces. Willie Walters of Sewickley changed tactics one day last bass season on the upper Alle­ gheny to excellent advantage. He writes: "I fish with artificial lures but this bass I caught R. L. Watts, formerly Dean at State Cola on the flyrod with a live frog and using a lege, and an ardent trout fisherman, denr size 4 hook. The fishing had been poor that onstrated that dry flies may be effective day and I tried a live frog that I had caught. even when water temperatures in our trout It was the first time I used a frog, the day streams are way down, according to Warden was hot and the time about noon. I rowed George Cross of Hammersley Fork. He writes out to the middle of the river, anchored and concerning the opening day of the trout left the frog drift with the current. The bait season this year: "The water tested 34 but was not more than fourteen feet downstream in spite of that R. L. Watts of State College, when this bass hit. He kept going until he retired, showed the boys how to take trout on flies, and demonstrated that this is the had all but a couple of feet of line stripped e from the reel and I stopped him. It was a proper method in taking fish. He caught th limit but didn't kill that many". Nice going' good thing* that my flyrod is a good one for Dean. it certainly did bend almost double. He strip­ ped line from my reel three times before I was able to land him. I have caught bigger bass but never had one give me a battle A fine catch of suckers was scored by W. A- such as this fellow did. This smallmouth Yost of Harrisburg in Yellow Breeches Creefr bass was 20% inches in length and weighed Cumberland County. His catch ranged i" Willis Bright with a fine catch of bullhead cattish 4 pounds 2 ounces". taken in Huster's Dam. Photo by Robert E. Dively. length from 14 to 16 inches. <9Yo

Sketch by A. G. Shlmmel. TORAGIXG BKOWN TKOLT. USE A PLUG AND SAVE A CHUB!