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* LAND USE ETHIC f~^ onservation, in the final analysis, is the highest form of national thrift in pre- ^-^ venting waste and despoilment while preserving and renewing the quality and usefulness of all of our resources. Many of us were appalled at the defeat of the Land Use Bill in the U.S. Congress this past spring, and our hopes for similar protection in Pennsylvania waver when we see the difficulty in enacting even the most preliminary of such land use legislation in the form of flood plain management. A recently passed amendment to the Sewage Facilities Act has crippling provisions that encourage overexpansion. True conservation is ultimately something in the mind and expresses an idea for men who cherish their past and believe in the future. In our continuing search for abundance, and beauty and order, we can manifest both our love for the land and our sense of responsibility toward future generations. Most of us find it difficult to conceive a land use ethic for tomorrow. The farm- based American of a century ago, with undeveloped conservation insights, has been replaced by the asphalt American of today who is shortsighted in other ways. Perhaps our sense of stewardship is uncertain because too many of us lack roots in the soil and the respect for our resources that goes with such roots. Too many of us mistake creature comforts for the good life. Our economic standard of living has become the envy of the world, and yet our environmental standards have steadily declined. I think that Aldo Leopold expressed it best in, A Sand County Almanac, " . . . we abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong we may begin to use it with love and respect."

Ralph W. Abele, Executive Director Pennsylvania Angler Pennsylvania's Official Fishing & Boating Magazine

Published Monthly by the PENNSYLVANIA FISH COMMISSION COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA Milton J. Shapp, Governor

MEMBERS OF THE PENNSYLVANIA FISH COMMISSION Sam Guaglianone, President Johnsonburg William O. Hill, V. Pres Erie Gerard J. Adams Hawley Howard R. Heiny Williamsport William Cox Elysburg Calvin J. Kern Whitehall Clarence Dietz Bedford Frank E. Masland, Jr Carlisle James J. Stumpf Laughlintown

Ralph W. Abele, Executive Director

Volume 43 - No. 9 September, 1974 CONTENTS

Coho & Chinook Salmon Fishing, by Sam Hossler 8

Something for Everyone, by George E. Dolnack, Jr 14

Wissahickon Creek, by John Munoz 16

Bobber Technique, by Fredric Doyle 20

FRONT COVER: An acrobatic coho salmon displaying one of the species' traits. Photo: Jim Bashline BACK COVER: Bob Anderson, an Erie coho regular, with his 10Vi pounder! Photo: Jerry Wunz

MONTHLY COLUMNS

FISHING OUTLOOK 2 NOTES FROM THE STREAMS . .24 LEAKY BOOTS 4 FLY TYING 26 TAKING A CLOSER LOOK 6 KEYSTONE CAMPING 28 THE CAPTAIN SPEAKING 22 ANGLER'S NOTEBOOK 29 CO-OP NEWS 23 ASHORE & AFLOAT 30 FISH TALES 32

James F. Yoder, Editor

POSTMASTER : All 3579 forms to be returned to the office of The Pennsylvania Fish Commission, Post Office Box 1673, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. ''120 The Pennsylvania Angler, Copyright 1974, all rights reserved, is published monthly by the Pennsylvania Fish Commission, 3532 Walnut ^treet, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Second Class postage paid at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Subscription rates: One year - $3.00; three years - $7.50; r* cents per single copy. Send check or money order payable to the Pennsylvania Fish Commission. Individuals sending cash do so at their own risk. u° not send stamps. Changes of address should reach us promptly giving both old and new addresses, including both zipcodes. Subscriptions received and processed by the end of the month will begin with the second month following. The Pennsylvania Fish Commission will not assume resPonsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, or illustrations while in their possession or in transit. Communications pertaining to the ?lagazine should be addressed to: The Editor, Pennsylvania Angler, Pennsylvania Fish Commission, P. O. Box 1673, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Unsolicited material, manuscripts, or photos will not be returned unless accompanied by an envelope with sufficient postage attached for its return. Fishing Not even a honeymoon can interrupt salmon fishing! Outlook

by Stan Paulakovich

he Chinese calendar may say, this is "The Year of the Tiger," but according to our calendar, this is T"The Year of The CHINOOK!" Back in 1971, our first known chinook salmon was taken from Lake Erie's Walnut Creek. A fish that had wandered down from Michigan's waters, it was an omen of things to come. The fall of 1972 saw some of our original plantings return to our tributary streams. These were all immature males, "jack salmon," the term used for these precocious males. They averaged 23 inches and weighed 4- to 5-pounds. In 1973 the first adult chinook made their way back to the streams from which they were stocked. These were from the brood year of 1969, when only 35,000 finger- lings were planted. Accompanying them were many pre­ cocious males from the 1970 brood year. The four year old chinooks averaged over 30 inches and weighed up to 18 pounds. Now comes 1974, and scheduled to return, are the adults from an original planting of more than a quarter of a million fingerlings! Those that come in now, should be equal in size to those of last fall, but there should be just about 10 times as many! In addition, those chinooks that did not spawn in their bass, sheepshead, and 9 species of minnows comprised fourth year of life, may return for their final performance our take. The number or variety wasn't that startling, the this year. By now, they should be in the 25-pound class. size range of the fish was. They ran from tiny one-inch How would you like to have a 25 pounder rolling fiercely fry, to -adult fish. A good representation of every year and thrashing, trying to throw the hooks at the end of class of every species was also found. No wonder a fellow your line? boils when someone says "Lake Erie is dead"\ In this, their last year, the chinook have been feeding As summer begins to wane, Lake Erie begins to cool heavily and the abundance of food fishes in Lake Erie is off. As it nears the 55 degree mark, the salmon slowly fantastic. Several years ago, while on coho patrol, Capt. make their way toward our shores and their date with' Howard Wilson, skipper of the Commission's research destiny. Because of the swelling mass of eggs or milt vessel the Perca, treated me to a demonstration of drag within them, they feed lightly or not at all. They will netting that was eye-opening. strike in anger, fear, curiosity, or from instinct. Aboard were Biologist Jack Miller and mate Dan If last year can be used as an indicator, the chinook Wilson. We had just completed water quality samplings will be offshore around the second or third week in Sep' at the top, middle and bottom in the area known as the tember. Their smaller cousins, the coho, will arrive about "Nine-Mile Trench." Heading back to shore, the nets the third or fourth week of the month. Peak periods for were rigged and the planing devices on the nets were set each, will be that two week span after the time of their ar­ to trawl at 9 fathoms or 54 feet. The nets were set out and rival. the ten-minute drag began. How are you supposed to catch these giants? I don t Metal tubs were set on the deck near the stern of the know! Only one thing is certain: they are hard to hook Perca and the nets were hauled in and emptied. Thou­ and even harder to hold. Their strike is savage and their sands of fish cascaded into the tubs; perch, smelt, white initial run is like the takeoff of a jet plane! They have

PENNSYLVANIA ANGLE*1 • especially when you know there are more chinook out there like Clifford Norman's 33-3/4"-17.7 pounder!

en ]in known to mash treble hooks flat, snap rods and and near the mouths of Trout Run, Godfrey Run, and lir, es like matchsticks, and even straighten out the con- Crooked Creek. Elk and Walnut are larger streams and a necctint g rings on the hooks! Thinking chinook? Think portion of these two are open to shoreline fishing. HEAVY! Trolling several hundred yards offshore with spoons, Contrary to what you may think, the mouths of wobblers, lures, and spinners is best the first few hours of nooks are fairly hard. It takes some muscle in your daylight and the last few hours in the evening. Slowly a t, to set the hooks in behind the barb. There's no doubt drifting with salmon egg clusters on treble hooks seemed you can land a salmon on 6- or 8-pound test line, but to work well for the chinook. It's also a great way to pick u will lose more than you land. Start with something up some of the lake run rainbows for which Lake Erie is Und 12 pound test. The technology of today has made becoming noted. vi L S'ze l'ne mucn smaller in diameter and fairly in- We tried fly fishing with large wet flies and streamers s'ble to the fish. last year, fishing to the rises of porpoising salmon. es 0 t lures last year were wobblers in fluorescent Whatever the reason for this surface action, it produced an Ce ge or blue. Number 3, 4, or 5 spinners, with the no luck for us at all. We couldn't get one strike. This year j. nered treble hook trailing behind, were also pretty ef- we will try larger and more colorful streamers, like the lu 'Ve' ^n inventive angler last year discovered that Mickey Finn; maybe this will attract them. j. 'nescent lures worked wonders. The lure was held in Both the chinook and the coho are delicious eating. Us n} °^tbe headlights of the car for a few minutes. When They are big enough to filet and are great broiled or fried. tim ^e^ 8'owe^ m tne water for quite a long time. Best Or, the whole fish can be baked for a perfect meal. If you ^'or this method was from 5:00 a.m. until sunrise, have the facilities, smoked salmon is out of this world. So and °St °^ l^e cmnooks taken last year were from Elk the pleasure of fishing for them, and the thrill of catching nd Walnut Creeks or at the mouths of these two streams one, is topped off with a table treat that is second to none.

PTEMBER — 1974 3 both educational and rewarding to me. I Proudly, he held the fish aloft, posing for would be remiss if I did not mention the a photograph. The thrill of the catch had dedication and friendliness of the wa­ seized him; it showed in his eyes. Next terways patrolmen that I talked with fish would be even larger. Expectantly, during my fishing expeditions to various he turned to his companion, "Daddy, will areas of the state. Each was a gentleman, you please bait my hook again?" only too happy to aid my friends and me BETSEY KOLZOW in answering our questions and giving ad­ Far Rockaway, N. Y. vice to assure our fishing and boating pleasures. CORN HARMFUL? I'm sorry that my "adopted" state I would appreciate it if you would, in does not have a publication to equal the NEED SPECIFIC print, settle a dispute regarding trout and Angler. By "word-of-mouth" I am be­ corn. There has been much controversy INFORMATION? ginning to become acquainted with fresh regarding this subject and I am sure Check the directory on the inside water fishing areas within my sur­ other sportsmen would appreciate of our back cover; bureau, division, rounding area of the state. knowing the truth. My friend said corn is and section titles are self-explana­ In closing, I wish to extend my best harmful to trout as they cannot digest it; tory, and inquiries directed to these wishes for the continued successful ef­ I say that it is harmless to trout as I offices will be handled more expedi­ forts of the Angler in promoting interest believe the Commission would prohibit in fishing and boating with many thanks tiously. its use. Who is right? for the hours of enjoyment received in Many inquiries are directed to the JOSEPH H. MAHMDE reading your magazine. Ringtown, Pa. editor's attention, resulting in a delay JOSEPH T. SAVIN until it can be channeled to the de­ Lake Worth, Florida While I am not an expert on nutrition, I partment most qualified to supply rather suspect that corn would be rela­ the information. A lot of us here have just cancelled our tively harmless to trout. Certainly whole ' "Letters to the editor," regarding Florida vacation plans, Mr. Savin! Ed. kernel corn, if not properly chewed, can the magazine, its content or dis­ be somewhat difficult for humans to digest tribution, are always welcomed. We TOO BAD! — because of the tough outside coating. especially invite our readers to share I went fishing on May 18, 1974 at However, in considering corn and trout, I their fishing and boating exper­ Riverside Park in Oakmont at six o'clock doubt that trout in a stream would ever eat iences, both good and bad, with in the morning. I put a nightcrawler on enough to harm them, even if it were other readers. and cast out. About two minutes later I harmful. Some of the insects which trout often eat Your district waterways patrolman landed a largemouth bass. My friend have harder and tougher exoskeletons ' is best qualified to handle matters of watched him until I ran home and got a camera. My dad came down and we took than the coating of corn. For example, it purely local concern. His name, ad­ is quite common to find caddis larvae, dress, and telephone number are a few pictures and measured him. He was 20 inches long, but being that it was not including their stone or wood cases, in a listed in both your summaries of in season, I turned it loose. After a while trout's gullet. Crayfish and other hard- Fishing Regulations & Laws and I thought about a citation. So I called shelled aquatic life are often eaten as well. Pleasure Boating Requirements. Mr. Crayton and asked him. He said for So, again, I can see no reason why corn a citation it would have to be in season. would pose a problem to trout. Maybe my time will come again to be so Robert B. Hesser, Chief FORMER KEYSTONER lucky to catch another big one in season. Fisheries Management Section With this, my sixth 3-year renewal ROBERT MEDVED subscription to the Pennsylvania Angler, Oakmont WHAT ABOUT GRUBS? I felt a few words of encouragement to your contributors and MEMBERS OF THE Too bad, Robert, but catching a 20" My friend and 1 fished Beach Lake, COMMISSION would be apropos. As you largemouth should be a thrill to anyone - Beach Lake Township, Wayne County - i can see by the address below, I am no especially at Oakmont! Ed. oustide of Honesdale, Pa., and caught longer a resident of the "Keystone quite a few perch and bluegills. But all of State", but my thoughts often return to them had grubs or some type of orange the fine times 1 enjoyed in fishing nu­ A FISH STORY worms throughout the whole fish. Could merous lakes, streams, rivers and It was apparent he was an inex­ you please give me some information reservoirs from the age of five years, until perienced fisherman, though he tried about this and what causes this problem? my 56th year, when I retired to my to appear otherwise. The others on the We drove over 50 miles for good fishing; Florida residence. Whether in my boat acted as though they couldn't see but what good is the fishing if the fish are waders, bank fishing, or fishing from my through him. When he eyed the bait with not? Thank you for your time. boat, I always enjoyed the beauty of my disdain, his companion wordlessly baited DANIELJ. BRYNDZA surroundings—regardless of my luck his hook. Once the line was in the water, Moscow with rod and reel. the bait touching bottom, he began to From the receipt of my first copy of relax. The pole lay silent in his hands. Without actually examining these the Angler I avidly read each issue from Suddenly, it bent and the line went taut, parasites I cannot tell you exactly what cover to cover. The articles on your he had a bite! Carefully, he began to they are, but I can guess that they belong propagation work and other efforts to bring the line in. The silvery body broke to one of two groups: (1) flukes and flat- improve and broaden the fishing op­ surface, thrashing wildly, then it lay on worms, or, (2) roundworms. As species portunities throughout the state were the deck at his feet. It was a beauty! from both groups can be found in the flesh

4 P E N N S Y LVANIA ANGLER and internal organs of fish, these types of CARP AREN'T PICKY! THAT'S THE SPIRIT! parasites are very common throughout My husband, son, and daughter are Pennsylvania, and as fishing pressure As for carp on Mepps, I sometimes fishermen — so, I became a fisherman! increases, people are noticing more and catch them on brown rooster tails, fished Last year my husband started getting the more of these parasites. slow, near the bottom. Yours for good Pennsylvania Angler and I learned many The parasite in the fish is usually only fishing in clean waters. things from reading it. I can now fix my an intermediate stage in its life cycle CHARLES F. RICHMOND own rod and reel, bait my own hook. I development, while a fish-eating bird is Washington can also take off my own fish from the usually the final host in the life cycle. hook. Very rarely do the parasites cause death to the fish, and in no way can man REALLY? Last week our family went to the Sus­ become infected by them. They constitute I have been fishing in the state since I quehanna River fishing. I caught 15 no more danger to man than finding a was seven years old and still go several channel catfish. MR. RAYMOND worm in an apple. Thorough cooking will times a year for trout, then pickerel, then TOMCZAK of Linesville asked (in Leaky destroy the parasites, but if this does not bass and panfish. I have had some trophy Boots) what kind of bait to use for chan­ appeal to you I would suggest just cutting brook trout (wild) 5'/2-pound; brown nel catfish. Well, we used nightcrawlers; out the parasites so as not to waste some trout, 9'/2-pound; and largemouth bass, maybe I was just lucky. I did not keep the good fish flesh by throwing the whole 9'/2-pound; but I always seem to lose the catfish because we do not like to eat thing away. trophy pickerel. The largest I have had them. Thank you for the Angler, I not I would be most interested to obtain the was 29 inches long but I have missed some only learned how to be a good fisherman fish you mentioned with these parasites to that went over three feet! I enjoy quite a but a good sportsman. I only keep what examine first hand and identify the few of the articles in the Angler and also we will eat. particular parasite species. I hope that pick up some new tips once in awhile. There are so many beautiful places to see and fish in Pennsylvania. I now get this will be of some consolation to you and F. W. KOFINK, JR. please don't let this discourage your Clifton Heights out more and have a wonderful time. So, fishing or the enjoyment of eating your come on ladies, get those rods out and see catch. Mr. Kofink, if you ever hold on to one of what a good time you can have as a family. No more sitting home alone for Cecil R. Houser those pickerel "over three feet," you'll me! Diagnostic Pathology break the state record, so take along a camera and your local waterways pa­ MRS. DORIS PLASKA COMMON? IT DEPENDS! trolman! (We'd also like to have the catch Woodlyn verified by a minister, priest, or rabbi of I am writing about two true happen- your choice!) Ed. •ngs that I saw. The first incident took ENJOYS IT ALL— place while I was trout fishing at Backlog Enclosed is my check for renewal of Creek. I was fishing and I saw a sucker BEGINNER'S LUCK? my Angler subscription and also for a jump not once or twice but three times! Is gift subscription for Clyde Keech. Clyde this common.' HARDLY! is without a doubt the best trout The second incident took place when 1 I especially enjoy your sections on fly fisherman I know. He has taught me was riding along in the car, I glanced in tying and Angler's Notebook. I would most of what I know about trout fishing the stream and was amazed to see a like to commend the PENNSYLVANIA and perhaps, more importantly, has in­ mallard with a very large brown trout in FISH COMMISSION on their efforts which troduced me to the Sinnemahoning its mouth. produced that fantastic FISH-FOR-FUN Country. I have yet to find a more beau­ ALLAN D. QUEAR project, "Fisherman's Paradise". tiful stream than the Driftwood Branch Pitcairn During a recent trip to Pennsylvania, and especially that area known locally as on my first trout fishing trip, I hooked Although not too many folks have seen a "Tunnel Hill." and landed at the Paradise, a 31" brown sucker jump (now watch the letters pour Please extend my thanks to the Com­ trout on a white maribou streamer that I ln!), we'll grant you this one. But a mission for maintaining high quality tied. That was a thrill I will never forget. mallard with a trout in its mouth? I've fishing in Pennsylvania and for providing I also fished several other streams in the "ever seen one, but then I carry only cof­ a publication of equal quality. company of my friend, "Woody Rough," fee along. I have this friend who sees JACKHAVELY, JR. and 3 other friends, and we all had a very Snakes — now lots of people see snakes Pittsburgh enjoyable and memorable trip. I can while fishing — but he sees them in his guarantee you, I will be back. The Commission will accept those thanks, hedroom! Ed. Jack! Ed. STEVEN SCHNEIDER ANYWAY? Annapolis, Md. WADER REPAIRS— Is there any way to get a fishing ci­ Then you agree, Steven, that the In your June issue I read "Problems tation without taking the fish to a license "Paradise" was correctly named? Ed. a with Waders". Tell your writer to try gent? I don't keep any of the fish I c bathtub sealer, it's live rubber. First, atch. I fish for fun. clean area well, then force a small MATTHEW A. KICINSKI ELATED! amount through hole, also a small Philadelphia Wonderful! We can now wade in the amount on outside, let dry overnight. No way, Matthew! But, "fishing-for- Fish-For-Fun project on Kettle Creek. Then, apply a heavy coat on the outside. fun," as you're doing, is generally a More wonderful, we have a Fish Com­ The small amount inside forms a seal teward in itself. If you want an Angler Ci­ mission that Listens. Thanks a million! which really holds. tation, you'll have to start keeping some SAMUEL C. RICHARDS BURTON WOODS ofthe big ones! Ed. DuBois Deputy Waterways Patrolman

SEPTEMBER — 197 there are ways to determine whether or not a snake is poi­ sonous. One method is by observing the eye pupils. Ven­ Taking omous species have "cat eyes" (elliptical pupils) while non-venomous snakes have round pupils. The triangular head of a rattler or copperhead is also an identifying feature but not necessarily a reliable one. Unless both types of snakes are present for comparison, most people A Closer Look will interpret any snake's head as being "triangular". It is safe to assume that a snake is harmless if it has lengthwise stripes or uniform solid coloration (this is not necessarily true for snakes found outside of Pennsyl­ by Tom Fegely vania). Copperheads and rattlers both have cross-barred or splotched patterns. One other distinguishing feature requires the capture and handling of the snake and is therefore of limited use­ Pennsylvania's fulness. A dead snake (or even a shed skin), however, can Poisonous Snakes be examined to determine its status. If the scales on the uch of the reason that snakes evoke fear and inspire underside of the tail are divided it is (or was) non-poi­ M fantasy can be attributed to the relatively few sonous. If undivided, a poisonous species is indicated. species that are potentially dangerous, the poisonous Only three species of venomous snakes live in Pennsyl­ ones. Of the 22 kinds of snakes found in Pennsylvania vania and all three are distinct and interesting enough only three are poisonous. Not as common as the that every biology course should require their identifi­ harmless ones, but by no means rare, is the trio of "pit cation. The northern copperhead, timber rattlesnake, and vipers" that dwell within our state's borders. eastern massasauga (also a rattler) all have the family The NORTHERN COPPERHEAD, TIMBER RATTLESNAKE, characteristics previously described, yet look and behave and EASTERN MASSASAUGA are "pit vipers" — so called in different ways. The water moccasin or, "cottonmouth," because of the deep pit located between the nostril and is not found in this state although its name is frequently eye on each side of the head. Each pit is actually com­ used in reference to the common water snake. posed of two cavities, separated by a thin membrane. The Copperheads frequent rocky fields and hillsides and membrane has an extensive nerve supply that enables the hide in brush piles, overgrown fencerows and under rocks snake to sense temperatures only a degree or two dif­ and loose debris. Recorded from 54 of Pennsylvania's 67 ferent than that of its immediate environment. counties, the copperhead is seldom seen due to its Although their sensory range is limited to about a foot, nocturnal activities. Known in some regions as the "high­ the pits enable the snake to accurately strike a warm­ land moccasin", Ancistrodon contortrix is distinguished blooded animal in total darkness. Combined with spe­ by the hazel-brown coloration (thought by some to re­ cialized fangs and powerful venom, rattlers and cop­ semble the contrast between a new and old copper penny) perheads possess the most sophisticated hunting weapons of the hourglass markings on its back. present in reptiles. Normally content to lie motionless or make a dignified The hollow, hypodermic-like fangs are not permanent retreat, a copperhead will become aggressive when structures, but are shed and replaced throughout a cornered or teased. Its venom is not as potent as that of a snake's lifetime. New ones are constantly forming in the rattlesnake and seldom is it fatal but it will cause a upper jaws as replacements for those that break off or are human victim to undergo a period of pain and suffering. left sticking in some unfortunate victim. Each fang is Copperheads bear their young alive, producing four to connected to a pair of poison glands located behind the nine young in August or September. The youngsters are eyes. When the snake strikes, the fangs are brought for­ marked like their parents except for the tip of the tail ward and venom is forced through them and into the which is bright yellow. It is thought that the colorful tail wound. When not in use, the fangs fold back against the is used as "bait" to entice an insect or small frog. In roof of the mouth. about a year or so the yellow disappears and the snake's Poisonous snakes are not affected by their own venom diet changes to mice, frogs, small birds and even other and therefore do not use it on each other. In observations snakes. of captive rattlesnakes striking themselves by accident, The timber rattler, Crotalus horridus, is most common the venom had no effect on the snake's activities. Other in the sparsely settled mountainous regions although it species of snakes, however, are not immune to the poison has been recorded from 46 counties. When summer's and in some cases, especially by copperheads, are killed heat reaches its peak, rattlers often descend into valleys and devoured. for food and water. There they may be encountered by Each summer numerous snakes are needlessly warm weather anglers and campers. In the fall they again slaughtered because they are thought to be poisonous. return to the rocky ledges where they "den up" for the Milk snakes and water snakes especially, are frequently winter. mistaken for the copperhead and consequently stoned or Females bear seven to twelve young in September. The clubbed to death. newborn rattlers come equipped with fangs and poison Besides the pit and the possible presence of a rattle, glands and, if discovered, should be treated with respect.

6 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER The elliptical pupils and the large heat-sensitive pits of this copperhead, right, readily identify it as being poisonous. The front opening is a nostril. The average length of the northern copperhead is about thirty inches, although some individuals reach greater lengths.

This yellow-phase timber rattler still possesses a full set of segments on its tail, left. A black phase also occurs in this species and they are often mistakenly identified as two separate species, because of their different coloration. Snakes are secretive by nature, and it's up to man to avoid their domain. One common misconception concerns the determi­ woods but the best advice for anyone bitten by a snake nation of a rattlesnake's age by counting its tail segments thought to be poisonous is to get to a hospital. Wyeth the individual horny sections making up the rattle. Laboratories of Philadelphia manufactures an antivenin Each time a rattler sheds its skin, which might be several to neutralize the effects of rattlesnake and copperhead times a year, it adds a new segment. As old segments venoms. This is available in most hospitals. i break off and new ones are added, a rattler's tail may Various "snake hunts" take place in Pennsylvania : Possess anywhere from one or two to a dozen or more each year and attract huge crowds. Unfortunately most [ Actions. seem to be more sensational than educational and the I A third species of venomous snake has been recorded final result is a decrease in the numbers of snakes in a i °nly in Allegheny, Butler, Crawford, Lawrence and particular region. Unless the area has had a tremendous ; Venango Counties. THE EASTERN MASSASAUGA® Sis- influx of homes, the natural balance may be un­ trurus catenatus, also possesses rattles and grows to necessarily upset. Since predator-prey relations tend to about three feet in length. This relatively rare viper can adjust themselves according to living space, removing i °e distinguished from the timber rattler by the gray- large numbers of rattlers year after year can be of ques­ orown colors of its skin, squarish spots on its back and tionable benefit. ; large plate-like scales on its head. To assume that a snake is "extremely dangerous" i Partial to swamps, bogs, and prairie-like regions, the simply because it possesses a weapon (venom) to better r name "swamp rattler" is often used when referring to the enable it to survive is foolhardy. ( massasauga. Colonial flags carried a picture of a rattlesnake ; The incidence of snakebite in Pennsylvania is low. Of beneath the words "Don't Tread On Me". Rather than the few recorded cases each year, many are the result of needlessly slaughtering harmless and venomous snakes, ; handling captive snakes which are kept as pets or used perhaps we should strive to apply this same philosophy ! under laboratory conditions. whenever we cross paths with one of these misunderstood A snakebite kit may come in handy when in the deep reptiles. i SEPTEMBER — 1974 7 Old-timer, above, enjoying shore fishing during one of Lake Erie's more pleasant moods. Author's salmon, left, won't break any records, but he's hooked on salmon fishing forever!

Letfs go salmon fishing! Coho

& Chinook

will soon be returning.

by Sam Hossler

PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER Rough weather can cancel all boat fishing on Lake Erie. For a report of lake conditions, call 814-838-3424.

he moody, mysterious waters of Lake Erie have been but each trip ended in failure as rain, wind, or both, T providing some of the best fishing found anywhere closed in on my arrival. It was with mixed emotions that to a growing band of fishermen addicted to the pursuit I started up 1-79 for a 1973 attempt, remembering vividly ^nd capture of coho and chinook salmon. Back in 1968, how last year I was greeted by the roar of waves crashing 85,500 coho smolts were released into selected tributaries against stone and sand in the still dark morning at the °f Lake Erie to start one of the most exciting fishing pro­ Walnut Creek Station. This made it impossible to launch grams ever undertaken in Pennsylvania. This program a boat and do any lake fishing at all. We then headed has been nursed along by the Pennsylvania Fish Com­ down to Elk Creek where it is permissible to fish a short mission and has grown into one of the finest fisheries in distance of the creek bank from the mouth to the wired- this part of the country. The coho have been returning to off area. Walnut Creek also has a portion of creek bank sPawn each fall since that time. Then, in 1972, the first plus a jetty where shore fishing is possible during in­ chinook or king salmon made their initial spawning run clement weather. '72 was a complete disaster! Heavy hack to the tributaries where they were planted the year rains the day before our arrival and continuing high hefore. They originated from the 35,000 smolts planted winds put all the fishermen on the banks and jetties. 'n April of 1971. After a few casts into Elk Creek I was content to walk Coho normally return to their birth place at the age of the shoreline talking with fishermen and enjoying the 2 or 3 years, giving the angler what had been (and still is!) fresh air. considered really great fishing. But now, the chinooks, This year, the weather report which 1 received from the ^hich return at the age of 4, 5 or 6 years after spending "Coho Hot Line" was a little more promising. As I their growing years in the deeper waters, are heading for pulled into the Walnut Creek Station parking lot, my the tributaries where their life cycle began. 1973 was the spirits were immediately lifted. The water was relatively '•rst year to have any mature 4-year-olds return and, calm and fishermen were carrying stringers of coho and Naturally, these tackle busters who had an extra year to chinook from almost every boat. On my way over to the 'eed, outweighed the coho considerably and have now be­ weighing station, I saw an excited angler on the jetty come the talk of the sport fishing fleet found off the Erie hook and land a salmon. That did it! shore in any one of a number of hot spots. I was to meet my fishing partners here and it didn't Salmon smolt raised in nurseries along the tributaries take me long to scout them up. It was 6:00 p.m. before we are started on their migration into the big lake each were on the water and headed for the mouth of Trout sPring to reach adulthood over the ensuing years. A part Run. Weaving through the maze of boats gathered at the °* the nursery system are the "imprinting" ponds which, entrance to Walnut Creek, I watched another salmon f0r some unexplained reason, give the salmon a homing being boated. Surely this was going to be my day! lr|stinct when the spawning urge beckons. Another armada of fishing boats was working the I had been to Erie a number of times trying my luck water off Trout Run when we arrived and it seemed

EPTEMBER — 1974 9 ••nHMi^HMMHmannm

Aerial view of Walnut Creek mouth shows a portion of the "Salmon Armada." Photo; Bus Scott, Erie Times. everyone of them had stringers over the side. As we in my tackle box. The favorite lures of the area are wound our way through, trolling spoons, spinners and spoons and spinners, with fluorescent orange being the : plugs, there was an almost carnival-like atmosphere in preferred color. Mepps spinners, with a dark hair the air. It was crowded, but good humor prevailed and dressing, were doing extremely well that day as was the everyone had a cheerful wave or smile as you passed. Just Rooster Tail and K.O. Wobbler. It seems to be the before dusk a 12 foot jonboat, anchored less than 200 feeling of the fishermen who know, that if it's flashy and yards off shore, showed some activity. The fisherman in pulled-past the salmon's nose he'll hit it . . .if the mood it was alone and from the way his rod was jumping there prevails. They also tell me they will raise for a lure, but was no mistake that he had tied into something large will not dive for one. I had some lures with me in every enough to make the adrenalin flow rapidly. Handling the color imaginable and was convinced these would take rod in one hand, and the net in the other, it was touch- salmon just as they had taken trout over in the Pocon" and-go for a while whether the fish would tire before the lakes. fisherman! Finally, after two unsuccessful swipes with The weather turned cool that night and light rain fell- the net, he had him. A beautiful chinook! Yelling over, we When we rolled out of the sack in the morning the rain asked, "How big?" This angler was good enough to had stopped but a southwest wind was blowing. It is hard oblige by putting the tape on him, then calling out "31 to tell when you are inland how the lake might be inches"! We still hadn't caught our first fish although I reacting to the breeze, so it was with some misgiving that had felt a light bump which I prefer to imagine was a we drove back to the Walnut Creek Station. When ve strike. The fish were there, arid if the weather held, saw the water, we all breathed a sigh of relief! A sligh' tomorrow might be our day. chop was on the surface, but not enough to keep us of' Before going to supper that night a trip to the local the water. Although the traffic of boat trailers seemed to tackle shop was in order. Each of us had more lures than stretch for miles, it was only a short while later that we we could ever use in a year, but there is always something were on our way to Godfrey Run, where we had heard that can be added. I didn't go as far overboard as my they were really hitting. partners, but I couldn't resist putting a few "local killers" As we trolled, the water calmed to a point where

10 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLE* Above: Lone angler photographed doing battle with a giant chinook salmon at Erie.

Below: Many are lost because fishing tackle was too light, or net was too small!

Serial photo above Sr>ows Fish Commission Access Area parking °t. fishing pier, ar>d stone jetty.

11. in -d, ?e at ve bt Why fight the ,ff ^ind, waves and water to when you can enjoy salmon fishing from a td\ comfortable chair?

SEPTEMBER — 1974 11 hardly a ripple was visible. I started with a blue and gold all scrambled for their cameras instead! This finny fellow spoon while my boat partner was trolling a large didn't take to the air, but dove down, boring for the bot­ fluorescent orange wobbler. Again we saw a number of tom. Still calling for the net, all I could hear were camera salmon being caught around us, but the best we could shutters clicking! The fish didn't seem to appreciate come up with was a couple of "bumps" each. From being a model for photography, and dove under the boat Godfrey we went on to Trout Run and drew another sending my blood pressure up another 10 points. We got blank. It was lunch time and with no fishing activity , our that worked out and finally had him thrashing beside the stomachs soon told us it was time to head in. boat for a few last pictures. At last the net was slipped The other boat in our party came in at the same time under him and he was hoisted aboard. and unfortunately they had experienced the same luck we The reason this fellow didn't jump was supposed to be had. After a short drive and a quick lunch we were back the fact that he was hooked in the lower jaw. It is claimed ready to hit 'em again! that this is absolutely true of Atlantic salmon when Back at Trout Run we made our way slowly through hooked in the upper jaw — they'll jump every time, but a the small armada (trying not to appear overly jealous hook in the lower jaw means a deep diving fish. when we saw stringers over the side of our fellow My prize was a chinook, and not an oversized one at fishermen's boats). There were three of us in our boat that. He was 22-inches long, but he made my day com­ now. We tried everything from salmon flies to bass plugs, plete. The rest of the fishing party was no longer ready to but nothing seemed to tempt those fickle salmon. The give up, so we spent another hour tyring for "number activity around us had slowed down somewhat and it was two." 6:00 p.m. when the decision was made to take one last However, at dusk we gave up, content to have taken pass before calling it a day. one of the gamest fish found anywhere and I can attest to No sooner had we started the sweep than my rod gave the fact they are not one of the finest tasting fish the heart stopping "thump-thump-thump" and the rod anywhere. tip began dancing. Finally a fish had struck the silver and If you have never made the journey to Erie for salmon blue striped wobbling spoon I had put on. you really owe yourself a treat. You can bet I'll go back I started yelling for somebody to get the net, but they looking for that 36 incher that I know has my name on it.

The mouth of the chinook is hard — and sharp, strong hooks are required to insure a catch. They begin their spawning runs a month or more before the coho.

12 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER Ji Above: Waterways Patrolman Norm Ely records Jean Smith's beautiful 29-inch, 9 3/4 pound chinook. Walnut Creek foreman, Neil Shea, above right, holds a chinook picked up by the Fish Commission's research vessel, Perca. Unidentified anglers, right, and below, display some good salmon catches from Lake Erie.

SEPTEMBER — 1974 Fishing from the stoplog bridge requires heavier fishing tackle, above, and to bring up a heavy catch, like the walleye, right, take along a "drop net."

by George E. Dolnack, J' Something for Everyone photos by the author ark Twain once said, "There is no use in your small but well stocked bait and tackle shop in nearby M walking five miles to fish when you can depend on Conestoga. being just as successful near home." The rock-lined bank of the river below the dam What he could have meant was that while a lot of an­ provides some excellent smallmouth bass fishing. Min­ glers go chasing off out of state in search of a fisherman's nows, spinners, and jigs are used effectively with the min­ paradise, others are having a ball with some top-notch now taking most of the bass. If you place your minnow angling darn near in their own back yards. And, I suspect pail in the water here, be sure to secure it well because the that with the present fuel crisis, many more anglers will current is very swift when the water rushes out of the try to discover some satisfactory fishing closer to their gates as power is being generated. homes. I saw one angler take a cold bath when he stumbled Now I'm not knocking long trips or out of state over the rocks and slipped into the water while in hot pur­ fishing, 1 do it myself when time and resources permit. suit of-his errant bucket full of minnows! He finally Heck, everyone needs a change now and then and the an­ managed to snag and retrieve it with the stick he tripped gler should gain some good from the experience, no mat­ over during the chase! ter how it turns out. If you're looking for carp, there are a couple of Next time you get the wanderlust and you're short of hotspots you'll want to try. Just up from the confluence time, finances, or gasoline, take Mark Twain's advice of Conestoga Creek and the "Susque" there is a sandbar and fish the lower Susquehanna where nearly all species where anglers congregate to test wits with this scaly of fresh water fish may be found. Here you'll find one monster. species or the other in season year 'round. Along the bank below the guard house is another good One popular spot on the lower "Susque" is the Safe spot to try for this imported battler. A favorite doughball Harbor hydroelectric facility near Conestoga. Located concoction used consists of cornmeal colored and on the east shore of "the long crooked river," it is easily flavored with a variety of gelatins, particularly straw­ accesible and offers something for everyone. berry flavor. Several types of fishing are available at this plant Other anglers prefer the stoplog bridge which runs whose facilities are open to the public from dawn to dusk parallel with the downstream side of the dam and is a lot throughout the year. In addition to the fishing, there's a like a coastal fishing pier. Safety railings run the entire picnic area, a playground, an arboretum to aid the bud­ length of the bridge on both sides and also at the end of ding naturalist in identifying trees and shrubs native to this sturdy cement structure. southeast Pennsylvania and free parking. There's also a During warm sunny days, it's not uncommon to find

14 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER Tom Coyle's doughball netted him a 28" carp, left, while Henry Ford settled for a nice mess of catfish, right

fishermen sprawled out in lawn chairs, basking in the This rig is deployed about 200 feet downstream in the sun, or reading a book if the action is slow. "boils," as the turbulence caused by the water rushing A canopy-covered eating area, equipped with vending through the gates is called. Close attention to the line is machines and picnic tables, is located at the entrance. required so that it does not become tangled with another The stoplog bridge can be fished on either the river side angler's while tempting the walleyes. The fishermen are or the dam side. And, since its deck is about 15 feet above constantly moving in and out and around each other to the water, a drop net or umbrella minnow net is almost a avoid entanglement. must to get the large fish up. Even smaller ones will give Some anglers launch their boats at a downstream ac­ you trouble at times so a sturdy rod and at least 12 pound cess area and enjoy good fishing below the stoplog test line is recommended unless you're after walleyes. bridge, both in the current and around the huge round Fishing from the stoplog bridge for walleyes, or "Sus­ rocks that poke out of the water. quehanna Salmon", as they are known locally, requires A word of caution here; boat handling can be tricky in some heavy tackle. A short, stiff, saltwater rod, with a the treacherous boils and can invite disaster to the star drag reel backed with about 50 pound test line is used careless boater! by most although some anglers use surf casters with a One lone angler was observed drifting helplessly spinning reel. downstream while attempting to start his contrary out­ The walleye rig, which deserves special mention, board. It was a cliff hanger, and just before he was about consists of a 2-inch sinking Rapala or Rebel with the rear to slam into a protruding rock, the motor started and he treble hook removed and replaced with a number 6 treble escaped tragedy at the last moment. hook. At 3- to 4-foot leader runs from the lure to a three Well, there you have it. Good fishing, a picnic area, way swivel. An 8-ounce bank sinker is also secured to the arboretum, playground, parking, nearby bait shop, no swivel with a connecting link or duolock snap and the line tolls and no fees. It's not only fun for the fishermen but fastens to the remaining swivel eye. for the family as well.

Fishing below the dam from boats is tricky, but anglers knowing what to do enjoy great fishing success here. An arching stone bridge, a placid pool with a riffle below

for inner city fishing in a wilderness setting WISSAHICKON CREEK

by John Munoz photos by george e. dolnack, jr. Al Schwartz, of Philadelphia, and his catch.

16 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER T^S-i...

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he windshield wipers were playing a pulsating beat as I Ed Biasa fishes near Bell's Mills Road. Tleft the parking lot after work. My 8:00 p.m. to 5:30 a-ni. shift is just right for getting out for a few hours of Ashing in the early morning and I was heading for a few "ours of relaxation in a wilderness setting that, if you haven't seen, you wouldn't believe it existed! It was the last week of April, the third week of the regular trout season here in Pennsylvania, and the stream I was going to fish was the Wissahickon Creek which runs for a°out eight miles through the city of Philadelphia! The stream runs through Fairmount Park (one of the largest in 'he country), on the east side of the Schuylkill River, and is st0cked by the Pennsylvania Fish Commission. It took me no more than half an hour to reach the Peking lot alongside the stream and when I parked I could See that I was going to have the whole place to myself. Two

EPTEMBER — 1974 17 I 1

million people worked and played, lived and died, within a relatively short distance of this very spot, and yet / was alone! A nice thing about this stream is that no cars are allowed past the parking area; all fishing spots are reached on foot. The morning was one of those cold, drizzling days, but still you knew that spring was here. The trees and shrubs along the creek were bursting with every shade of green foliage imaginable. I opened the trunk and began donning my gear, boots, rain parka, the works. Slipping on my fishing vest, 1 grabbed my rod and net and was on my way up the cinder road that parallels the stream. As I neared the water, a small flock of mallards broke water and headed upstream. A chipmunk cried out at me for invading his privacy on the other side of the road. As I made my way upstream, the sounds of the city soon drifted away. Wildlife is abundant throughout the park, the Fairmount Park Commission keeps the area as natural as possible for those who enjoy the solitude . . . and I'm one of them! As I neared the first spot I had planned to fish, I started to rig up an ultralight rod and reel with four pound test line. I planned to fish worms on a # 10 hook, an unbeatable combination for the Wissahickon. My first cast brought no response, but on my second cast, 1 connected with a rainbow which ran toward the lower pool, turned, broke water and headed back my way. After a few more runs, it lay over on its side and I brought him to net. It was a beautiful fish of about fourteen inches. I fished that spot for another half hour without taking any more fish. Most of the fishing is done close to the parking areas like Valley Green and Bell's Mill Road, by Walnut Lane. Though some fishermen like to follow the truck on stocking days, I would rather fish during the week when not too many men or trucks are around, and I usually have most of the creek to myself. I made my way to the upper pool and began casting again. On my third cast I had a "hit," but missed it. Later, on my fifth cast, I hooked into a nice brown trout about sixteen inches long. It was a light colored brown beauty with spots of black and red, and a cream colored underside. It was heavy and in great shape. One more cast in this pool brought a smaller brown which 1 released. The next pool I planned to fish was about two hundred yards upstream, above a bend in the creek. There was a small waterfall with about forty yards of fast water. As I neared the spot I saw a large doe taking a drink. Spotting me, she crossed the creek and headed up the hill on the far side. What grace she had as she moved through the , woods! The woods and creek grew quiet again, broken only by the cries of a pair of bluejays in a nearby pine tree. On previous occasions, this had always been a good spot for me. The bottom was very rocky and on each cast I could feel the line bouncing along the bottom in and out of hidden holes. On my third cast I hooked into a nice

Philadelphian Ernest Greenwood has been fishing the meandering Wissahickon Creek for 44 of his S3 years

PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER Bob Phillips, of Philadelphia, shows his catch from below the Margarge Paper Mill Dam, built way back in 1738. heavy, foot-long rainbow which went through a few acro­ I netted it. It was a nice brown and a good 22-inches long. batics before reaching the net. After losing two terminal The other fishermen saw it and congratulated me on my figs to the rocks, I hooked another rainbow and good catch. I returned to my fishing and took two more eventually moved a bit farther upstream. Here I hooked fish, a brown and a rainbow. into a large brown trout that I lost when he threw the Heading back to the car to stow my gear and call it a hook on his second jump. He was every bit of twenty-two day, I looked at the big fish again. It was then that I saw •nches long and quickly disappeared beneath the fast the two small hooks: one under his tongue, and the other w ater. Another half hour of fishing produced no further in deeper, near the gills. This fish was "experienced"! contact with that beautiful trout, so I called time out for There are always a few holdover trout taken from the a break. creek each year, but they don't come easy — you have to Looking up and down the stream, no other fishermen work for them. "Lady Luck" sure was on my side that could be seen. It was about nine thirty and I still had the day! stream to myself. A little later I moved upstream to There are spots along the Wissahickon Creek that another pool about a mile away. As I walked the cinder make you think you are on one of the top trout streams road, the sun casting its rays down through the trees upstate that many fishermen never get to see. It's "lade the woods look like a cathedral. How peaceful it surprising more fishermen don't take advantage of such a was! It was difficult to believe that I was fishing within beautiful stream so close to home. lhe city limits of one of the nation's largest cities! If trout fishing isn't for you, and you live in As I neared the next pool, a groundhog which had been Philadelphia, the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers are 'ceding along the road dashed across to its den in the only minutes away from the heart of the city and offer Underbrush nearby. I ran into two other fishermen at the good variety. These are fine fishing spots and with the gas Pool and asked how they were doing. Not much luck, as shortage and high prices, their proximity to the city 'ar as they were concerned, so I moved a little farther up makes for economical fishing trips. tne road and found another pool nearby. On my third Maybe one day we will meet, fishing the Wissahickon Cast I started to pick up the slack and felt a light tug. I for trout; I'll be there . . . hope you will be also. s topped and waited. It wasn't too long until the fish took the worm with a rush that almost pulled the rod from my (Editor's Note: The Wissahickon is open to trout fishing hand! during the extended trout season, until October 31st. It made one run after another for the slow deep water Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy trout fishing during arid after the fourth run, it finally lay over on its side and the most colorful time of year.)

SEPTEMBER — 1974 19 try this Bobber Technique

for bass & panfish

by Fredrie Doyle

ay I help you sir?" asked the girl behind the M sporting goods counter in the large department store. "Yes, ma'am, I'd like to buy a sliding bobber." The great advantage of this sliding bobber is that you "A what?" can extend the distance of your cast far beyond that of "A sliding bobber. You know, one of those things that the conventional bobbers which are snapped on securely you slide up and down on your line." at, say, four to six feet above your bait, making casting "I'm sorry sir, but we just sold the last one yesterday." awkward at best. You can adjust your bait to any depth "Well then, could you direct me to the spinning simply by sliding the knot up or down on your line. The floats?" knot will pass through the rod guides easily. The girl twisted the curl that dangled below her left ear The disadvantage of the Hong Kong bobber is its light lobe, popped her bubble gum, and nodded toward a weight which limits the distance of your cast. To remedy basket full of multicolored globules all marked, "Made this I made my own sliding bobbers. I took larger corks, in Hong Kong." And it was there that my long search took the plastic ink tubes from some defunct ball-point ended. pens, and small beads from my assortment of fishing Among the plastic spinning floats I found a small balsa gear, and larger sinkers. When assembled in the order wood bobber. It was unique in that the the hollow plastic described, the heavier weight increased the length of the stem in the bobber was plugged with a small bead. The cast proportionally. The bead, by the way, could not be hole in the bead was just large enough to thread a ten or imbedded in the plastic tube. fifteen pound test monofilament line through this "eye." Taking a backward look I suddenly realized that I Complete instructions for the use of this bobber were have caught more bass with bobbers than in any other not forwarded from Hong Kong. For reasons of their manner. The reason for this is that most of my bass own, the Oriental mind sometimes neglects to make fishing has been from the shores of rivers and lakes. In everything perfectly clear, but top secrets among the beginning there was the cane pole along with the fishermen are generally disclosed when they gather in bright Cincinnati bass hook, linen line and pickle bottle local taverns and elsewhere. cork. The cork was sliced half through with a sharp knife, Thus, if you would like to catch more bass and panfish and the line fitted into this slit. It was the first sliding by using this unique bobber, you have only to gather your bobber. The wraparound sinker was borrowed from the spinning gear, take a short piece of monofilament line, B&O railroad tracks, remnants of exploded "torpedoes." about the size of that on your reel, wrap it around your Live bait was the rule. Minnows, soft-shelled crayfish, spinning line, tie a knot, a twist knot, or your favorite hellgrammites and nightcrawlers headed the list. Small nonslip knot, pull it tight and clip off the dangling ends. stone catfish were also a favorite lure. They were lively Now, with your terminal gear, that is your sinker, hook, and tough, attracting bass when other baits failed. And and bait, along with this bobber, attached below this knot now with the galaxy of lures glittering in every sport on your line, you are in business. shop, the monofilament lines, the bewildering array of Before you cast, note that your sinker, bait and bobber rods, reels and other fishing paraphernalia, I doubt are all bunched together at the end of your line. When whether all this will put more bass in the pan than the old this combination strikes the water at the end of your cast, cane pole and pickle bottle cork technique under cane your bobber stays afloat while the line slides down pole conditions. through the "eye" in the bead until it is stopped by the By cane pole conditions, I mean where bass could be knot. reached from the shore with this rig. The technique was

20 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER simple, you baited your hook and flipped it into the water, socked the butt end of the cane pole into the mud bank, sat back and relaxed. The pickle bottle cork kept your minnow or other bait suspended just off the bottom or at any appropriate depth. You watched the iridescent winged "snake doctors" settle on your bobber and hitch a free ride as the minnow flashed below. Suddenly the cork plopped under. You grabbed the cane pole and watched the line slice through the water. You waited with quickening pulse. The cork popped to the surface, jiggled for a moment and slid under again. It was during this pause that the bass turned the minnow so as to swallow it head first. Now I would like to say that we set the hook with a gentle tug, gave the bass all the line we had, and watched it do its acrobatics before bringing it gently to net. But the facts are that we gave a mighty heave and yanked the bass from its watery element with such force that it sometimes landed in the tree branches above! Basically this new bobber technique is the same with considerably more refinement. When using live bait you can reach out many times the distance covered by the cane pole and linen line. You can also use this new bob­ ber as a spinning bubble with streamers, spinners, jigs, plastic worms, or what have you. For me, late fall bass fishing is best. As the water cools, the bass are on the prowl, fattening up for the lean winter months ahead. With a bucket of live minnows, a spinning rod with the new bobber, there's promise of a day full of action! Bait dangling from a bobber is deadly on sunfish too.

Above: Casting, and landing fish, are both easier when your terminal tackle is near the end of your line. Below: The author's "sliding bobber."

SEPTEMBER — 1974 21 minute. Only a part of the bow remained afloat for even "This that long and the three men on board had no chance at all to break out the PFD's and the inflatable rubber raft stowed in the forward compartment. They immediately started trying to fashion emergency flotation gear using is the shirts, jackets and trousers — a tough enough task in calm, warm water; much more so in cold, choppy seas. They parted company after about 15 minutes when they Captain decided that their only chance was to get word ashore and the strongest and best swimmer set out to swim for the New Jersey beach several miles off. The fact that he was picked up about six hours later — a most remarkable Speaking" survival — is not a valid argument in opposition to the general rule of "staying with the boat" because in this case there was no boat! The other two, one an 83-year old by Capt. C.E. Leising USCG (Ret) man, and the other with a heart ailment, had no chance of making it. Director The new Coast Guard construction standards that re­ Bureau of Waterways quire manufacturers to install flotation material which will keep the fully submerged or capsized boat afloat overnor Shapp's telling of the recemt death in a would not have helped in this instance because it does not G boating accident of one of his closest friends added apply to vessels longer than 20 feet in length. Perhaps significantly to the formal language used in the Safe someday the standard will be extended to the larger craft. Boating Week Proclamation he signed last June 25th in But the old Chinese proverb that "a PFD is of no use the presence of more than fifty statewide representatives to you if you can't use it" still stands. Too many refrain of boating organizations. Anyone who has lost a loved from donning the PFD's until it's too late. There is too one, or who sees these uglier aspects of the usually en­ much the attitude that the wearing of a device designed to joyable sport of recreational boating through review of save your life makes you a landlubber and a "scaredy- accident reports or water searches for survivors and cat" one at that. bodies is even more depressed upon realizing how easily I certainly would not suggest any attempt to require all the tragedy could have been avoided, if only . . . Those persons to wear a PFD at all times aboard all vessels — of us charged with responsibility to regulate in the although many would like to see this required for white interests of safe boating and to get the word to the ever water canoeists. The fact remains that there have been al­ increasing number of boaters can't avoid some feeling of most no drownings of persons wearing approved PFD's frustration as the same simple lessons continue to come as a result of boating accidents. Even an expert swimmer, out of each tragedy. Only the assurance that there can be suddenly dunked into cold water and concerned about no real pleasure in boating that is not safe, and that an saving those less capable who might be with him, is sub­ "educated boater" in charge has the best chance to jected to a shock and strain that often overtaxes the returning safely, keeps the boating safety teacher, heart. Particularly in small open boats, with the weather professional or volunteer, from abandoning the effort as threatening, or when cruising at considerable distance a lost cause. from other boaters who might come to the rescue, the And, certainly the only imaginable benefit that can wearing of the device should be a must for children and ever be derived from an accident is its serving as another those who are less than expert swimmers. In such cases, reminder that even the most experienced boater dare not the smart-and skilled boat handler shows good boatsman- ignore the basics from the minute he or she first steps ship by donning his PFD before he really needs it! aboard to the time they depart the vessel. The knowledge Following the ceremony and a light luncheon, a new of what wind and wave will do to your boat at varying State/Federal Boating Safety Agreement replacing a loads and speeds, and then constant awareness to note 1968 Agreement was signed by Executive Director Ralph these changing effects, is essential. But even more ele­ W. Abele, for the Commonwealth, and by Capt. T. T. mentary is the knowledge that the one piece of equipment Wetmore III, USCG, for the United States. This required to be on board every boat and which is the only agreement confirms the Commonwealth as having one that really counts when all others fail (fire extin­ primary law enforcement responsibility over recreational guishers, signal flares, bilge pump, bailers, direction vessels on all waters within its boundaries and provides finder, secondary means of propulsion, radio, etc.), is for coordination of Coast Guard and Fish Commission your own Personal Flotation Device (PFD)! patrols on waters subject to both federal and state juris­ In this case, the boat, a well-equipped 28-foot diction for the most effective employment of personnel. "cigarette" design ocean racer recently acquired by the A lively two-hour "Scuttlebutt Session" on the theme, operator with years of experience in all types of craft, was "Is a Boating Safety Program Really Necessary?" con­ suddenly carried by a following sea into a wave that cluded the meeting with agreement in the affirmative but broke over the bow, broke the windshield, and nearly also recognition that more work and different ap­ filled the cockpit. The next wave completed flooded the proaches are necessary if those who need to know are to boat and she went under, stern first, within about one get the word.

22 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER CO-OP NEWS by Bill Porter he Mechanicsburg Sportsmen's T Association, Cumberland County, gets the attention this month with some very unique features to their nursery. For example, they have only an eight-inch drop on the entire site and a dike separates the Trindle Spring Run from Mechanicsburg Nursery above; photo below shows unique aerator system. the nursery pens. It's a little different from many nurseries we've seen around the state, but a well-planned and efficient one. Let's check the details in more or­ ganized form. The nursery is in its fourth year of production with 4,000 trout being raised this year. Last year's mortality record showed only 100, which attests to a very good survival rate. Physically, the raceway is 125' long, containing five pens set into the stream bed. Construction is basically railroad ties with exterior plywood facings toward the trout. A cement and railroad tie dike divides the nursery from the stream. This is necessary because of the limited drop Clarence Rider and others came up with The railroad people dropped off two and control of the water levels in the a fine innovative aerator that eliminated loads of ties for construction purposes nursery, as opposed to the natural depth nitrogen and added oxygen to the water. and thus earned a "THANK YOU" from of the stream. Screens cover the whole Consisting of a pump, a stand pipe, and a the club. In a similar manner, the Steam nursery and included are appropriate series of splash screens, the unit provided Engine Association, Williams Grove, bulkheads, racks, vertical screens, and the necessary answer to the water supplied additional ties; and so it has proper inlet and outlet areas. problem. Enclosed inside a screened box, gone with the growth and development of Sounds rather standard, doesn't it? the aerator is protected from debris accu­ the nursery. When it was evident that a Not really. The site was under ob­ mulation and minor vandalism. building was needed, one was donated, a servation for a considerable time be­ Altogether, it has proved efficient, and a "fish shed" peculiarly enough, from a cause of the fiat stretch of water and sur­ necessary addition to the nursery. man once in the business of handling and rounding land. There was the problem of Another major adjustment to the selling fish. setting the nursery into the stream raceway involved replacing the natural "Cork" Sauve and Clarence Rider, co- without disturbing the watercourse, per gravel bed, which was difficult to clean, chairmen of the project, met us at the site se. And then the actual fact of construc­ with cold patch. The supplier had his along with Mike and Vick Hoffman, and tion, working in about 10 inches of water doubts about the success of the material Rodger and Scott Jumper, all workers on continuously, produced its own unique being constantly under water plus the the nursery committee. Others help, of troubles. problems of laying it. Regardless, the course, but these fellows are some of the Anyway the nursery was built, fish in­ club ordered 18 tons, secured a heavy prime movers. stalled, and the club set down to the hand roller and went to work. Results: The trout are fed three times a day business of raising fine trout for a leaks stopped, cleaning was easier, and year-round and growth is good. Cost of number of area streams, some no longer the material has withstood the negative food is going up, which is nothing new, on the Fish Commission's stocking list. conditions feared by the manufacturer. and the club hopes to complete a storage The club currently stocks Trindle Oh, yes, the one adverse factor was a few unit to freeze road-killed venison to cut Springs, Hogestown Run, Silver Springs, aching muscles of the hard working crew! costs and add good protein to the diet. and Trout Run near Grantham. Then Although the club has about 1,200 Trout buttons and general club funds along came Agnes the day after new fin- members, juniors and seniors, plus 153 cover the operating expenses and the gerlings arrived. Trindle Springs rose, acres of its own, the members feel they Mechanicsburg Sportsmen's Associa­ covering the screens, allowing the small owe a lot to various organizations and in­ tion's nursery is in good hands and doing trout to swim or be washed out through dividuals for the success of the nursery, well. the mesh. Out of 3,000, there was a loss located on a ten-acre plot owned by the Oh, yes, there is one minor issue. One of 2,400; but a shocking operation Mechanicsburg Water Company. The of the boys indicated a need for some recovered 1,000 of the young fish. No company gave permission to install the good fill to build up one of the low areas real damage was suffered to the site other nursery and also to develop the whole on the site. So if you live in the region, than the fish loss. area for picnic grounds and other out­ contact Clarence Rider or "Cork" Sauve A "popeye" problem developed and door recreational facilities. and the club will handle it from there.

SEPTEMBER — 1974 23 fish were considered to be "brain food". With this information the youngster was prompted to ask the deputy near the live fish display is this were true or not. When asked, he used for an example of the fish's intelligence, the yellow perch and walleye which were in the same tank. He remarked, "See how smart our fish are? They stay on their own end of the tank where their sign is!" Hearing this, the father who was waiting to hear the ON SECOND THOUGHT — rod up and casting again, there was answer regarding "brain food" walked another strike, but this strike was more away muttering, "Oh Boy! Oh Boy!" While meeting with a man who had vicious, much harder, and the fight more Frank Schilling been apprehended by a deputy waterways lasting. But alas, the fish was landed and Waterways Patrolman patrolman for blocking a landowner's Mr. Einsig had another musky, 35lA Philadelphia County driveway, a violation of the Fish Law, the inches long. defendant was very angry and insisted he Anyone who has not seen a musky will was not guilty and said we were very un­ "SEE ALL, KNOW ALL" be amazed at the beauty of this largest of fair because all those "lazy deputies" did Recently, while on patrol I observed a all freshwater gamefish as I was. The was sneak around and watch these areas young couple searching a small stream colors are really something to behold — just to "make an easy buck" since they bank. As I approached in my assigned even on a dark overcast day in receive half the fine. He said, "They State Car, the young man waved me to December. make all kinds of money!" After he stop. They were looking for perfect rocks calmed down, I advised him that these Warren Singer, Jr. for a rock garden, and thought that I deputies work for no compensation and Waterways Patrolman would direct them to the perfect round are just dedicated conservationists trying Adams & N/York Counties type stone they were looking for! to preserve the sport of fishing and our Needless to say, I was dumbfounded at NOT TO SPEAK OF . . . natural resources. Well, he looked as­ this unusual question. tonished and said, "Oh, then I guess I'm While attending to his father's store, a James Smith guilty. I thought they were just trying to young college graduate was waiting on Waterways Patrolman make a quick buckl" He paid the fine. customers in the fishing bait area. A Allegheny County People are people, 1 guess. young man came up to the counter and asked for some "maggots" to go fishing John E. Stepanski with. The son of the owner of the store, HOLD ON A MINUTE! Waterways Patrolman who had a full length beard, and was not I thought we waterways patrolmen had Dauphin County used to being asked if he had maggots, been mistaken for about every type started to run his hands through his person imaginable, but not so. A NUMBER PLEASE! beard. Finally, after a few queer glances telephone caller the other week requested Fishermen, as we all know, are not from the customer, the young man got to talk with the "Warden". "Well," I limited to catching strictly fish, as evi­ the idea. This wouldn't have been so said, "you are speaking with him." He denced by all the old boots, rubber tires, funny except that this bearded young said, "When do you want me to come even wallets and purses that they some­ man is very clean. over, and where?" I thought possibly that times haul in. John Gerhard, 68, of James E.Ansell he had been apprehended by a deputy for Allentown, with his recent catch has ad­ Waterways Patrolman a violation so I asked, "What did you ded yet another exotic species to the list. Mercer County do?" He replied, "I robbed a bank!" While fishing in a local trout stream in Well!! I had to think for a minute. Then I 1973, he hooked onto something heavy BOAT NOTE— found out that he thought I was going to and could only budge it a couple of inches Fishermen should take note of the fact be his parole officer! I explained to him with each hardy tug. Soon he beached it, that I did not need a part-time job. and what was the trophy that John has that when an electric motor is attached to a boat, it then becomes a motorhoat and Warren Singer, Jr. hanging on his wall today? What else but Waterways Patrolman a telephone, that John says works fine! is subject to all the rules and laws governing them. At Stevenson Dam the Adams & N/York Counties Fred Mussel violations have been up due to the dis­ Waterways Patrolman regard of the anglers to make sure they REALLY BAD DAY! Lehigh County are equipped as a motorboat. I have Have you ever had one of those days found very poor life saving devices, no when nothing went right? I recently ran COLORFUL MUSKY — registrations, and running at night with into a fellow from Altoona who had the Albert E. Einsig, Jr. went fishing at the no lights, increasingly common at the bad day to end all bad days. While I was warm water area on the Susquehanna dam. patrolling Canoe Lake, I apprehended River, Brunners Island on December 13, Stanley G. Hastings this fellow with two undersized chain 1973. At approximately 11:00 a.m. Mr. Waterways Patrolman pickerel in his possession. I explained his Einsig had a solid strike and was fast to a Cameron County rights to him and he decided to settle the musky in the cloudy water. The fish violation on a field acknowledgment. fought long and hard but the hooks held "BRAIN FOOD"? However, he did not have any money and a 33 inch musky was landed. Mr. While attending to duties at the Sports with him. I gave him my card and told Einsig thought it over for a minute and Show in Philadelphia at Convention him to call me to set up a date and slid the musky back into the water to Hall, a mother and father were overheard meeting place. Later that afternoon, he fight again another day. Picking his explaining to their young daughter that came to my house and told me he wanted

24 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER to take care of the penalty right away. He ON THE SHORT SIDE— INFORMATION— asked me if I had any tape. When I asked Larry Zielinski, a commercial If you seek information about a specific him what seemed to be the trouble, he fisherman from Erie, called me one lake, pond, river, or stream, the district said that as soon as he had pulled up in evening and stated a fellow fishing at the waterways patrolman assigned to the front of my house, one of his radiator Cascade Dock had brought a fish up to county in which that particular waterway hoses had burst. All of his water and his house to be identified. Larry informed is located is your best source of in­ antifreeze had run out on the street. In me that it was a sturgeon about 9 inches formation. You'll find his name, address, addition, he said that when he had gone long and was alive in a bucket of water. home after being picked up for the two and telephone number listed in both your The fish was rushed to Presque Isle Bay Summaries of Pleasure Boating Require­ undersized fish, his wife told him that and given his freedom. This sturgeon ments and Fishing Regulations and their water heater was leaking water all would probably be a record for the over the basement. I guess you could say smallest sturgeon ever caught on hook Laws. that this just wasn't one of his better and line. It will be probably the oldest For other information, consult the di­ days. fish for the nine inch length due to the rectory on the inside of our back cover Walter Rosser fact that the sturgeon's growth rate is and direct your inquiries to the bureau, Waterways Patrolman about one inch a year. division, or section concerned with the Blair County Norman E. Ely activity in question. Waterways Patrolman TURNABOUT! Lake Erie GRA TIFYING RES UL TS— Boating is changing every day. At the close of a recent fishing school Yesterday I saw two rescue missions on SHE'S LEARNING! held in the Hanover area, two young lads Lake Wallenpaupack involving motor- My wife and I were having a con­ didn't waste any time putting their boats and sailboats. The only difference instructions to good use. As soon as the was that the sailboats were towing the versation recently about moving our fur­ niture to my new district. She became last session was over, the certificates and motorboats in for repairs! patches were handed out and the young rather pensive for a while, and then asked Joseph E. Bartley lads proceded to Lake Marburg where "Do you know what we really need?" I Waterways Patrolman they were cunning enough to land a Ci­ was sure that she had a new living room tation bluegilleach! Pike County suit on her mind and was prepared to William F. Hartle MENTAL LAPSE! rebut her pleas. "No," I replied, "what do we really Waterways Patrolman Deputy Ed Teck and I encountered need?" S/York County two teenage boys fishing during the "We need a new canoe so we can fish closed season this past March. The one OUT OF THE BAG! and float trip together . . ." lad obviously about thirteen, while the Mr. James Ferraro of DuBois, Pa. other appeared older than the fifteen If my wife had asked for anything else, she probably wouldn't have gotten it but caught a 21" palomino from the First years he claimed. I asked the boy, Fork on the opening day of last trout 'When were you born?" He replied, you can bet this request will be granted! And just think it only took 12 years of season. As I was checking the fish, word 'December!" "What year?", I inquired. got out that he was a die-hard fly A blank expression crossed the boy's face marriage to get her this well trained. Harry Redline fisherman but as conversation passed, I and he stammered, "Now, there's where found out that the fish was taken on I get confused!" Waterways Patrolman Lancaster County salmon eggs! I don't need to tell you the Don Parrish commotion this caused among the other Waterways Patrolman fly fishermen in his crowd. Shame on you OBEDIENCE—IN SPADES! Beaver County While stocking streams during the pre­ Stanley G. Hastings OH BOY! season period, we had a very good Waterways Patrolman While fishing for walleyes one day, turnout and much help. At one of the Cameron County ' noticed a fisherman with a very nice stops on East Sandy Creek, truck driver stringer of them. He was using a gold- Jack White and I noticed some of our DIFFERENT VIEWPOINTS! sided rapala and I asked if he was putting "Bucket Brigade" putting the fish in a bit One morning I watched as an osprey Pork rind on it. He replied, "Oh, no, I close to the shore where the water was was "fishing" one of the riffles below the Sln g my little song while I do my trolling shallow. We told them to get the fish out spillway at Raystown Lake. His first two and it works fairly well." When asked to into deeper water so mud and silt would dives were unsuccessful. The third, hear his song, out went the plug, and as not get into their gills. however, produced a rather large white he began to troll, he sang, "Fishy, fishy, Two of the young fellows helping out sucker. With the sucker clutched tightly ln the brook, put your mouth on my took us at our word, waded into the mid­ in his talons he attempted to gain altitude hook." Suddenly, there it was, about an dle of the stream to dump their buckets. with some degree of effort. My location '&" walleye! "You see how easy it is?" he What made it so unusual, was the fact was elevated above the river and I had an asked. "Well, that's my limit, see you that neither of them had hip-boots or excellent view of the whole operation, the around," and away he went, whistling his waders on, and the water temperature osprey being within fifty yards of me "ttle tune. It made me sort of mad, not was in the high thirties! When asked why most of the time. because of the nice fish he had, but be­ they did it, their reply was, "Well, that's As I watched though my binoculars, I cause I didn't bring a tape recorder with where you said to put 'em, so we did!" If could almost detect a look of satisfaction tte. I had just let the number one tune get that's not dedicated obedience, then I on the bird — and a look of dismay on away from me! don't know what would be! the fish! Gerald Greiner Robert J. Cortez James T. Valentine Deputy Waterways Patrolman Waterways Patrolman Waterways Patrolman Allegheny County Clarion County Huntingdon County continued on page 27 EPTEMBER — 1974 25 FLY TYING

"56 year* at the vise

by Nick Sisley

alph E. Ford of Pleasant Hills, a suberb of Pitts­ Rburgh, first sat down at a fly tying vise in 1918. That was fifty-six years ago. Today he is still going strong! A perfectionist, Ralph ties some of the highest quality trout flies that this country's fishermen can ever hope to see. That fact, along with the desire to continually look for better methods of tying and new techniques, coupled with his many years of experience, put him in a class with the fly tying greats. When Ralph started tying those many years ago, there was no one to teach him. He sat down at the bench and vise for hours on end. He often worked from seven in the evening until midnight, trying to learn how to tie one dif­ ficult pattern. Many times it was inferior, too, but he persisted. Instructive type literature was not available in his early years of fly tying. A few of the books written in the In 1928, he started tying flies for the old Brown's nineteenth century were very valuable to the upstart fly Sporting Goods Company in Pittsburgh. Here, his work tier of those times. However, most of them were out of was in demand for many years, in fact, Ralph tied for this print. Ralph was able to obtain a copy of a book by H. G. firm until they went out of business. Reminiscing, he re­ McClelland, "The Trout Fly Dresser's Cabinet of calls getting paid a dollar a dozen in those days. But that Devices." He claims that book has more pertinent in­ was enough! In the bleak days of the depression, no one formation of value to a fly tier than any other he has seen looked a gift horse in the mouth, particularly when it since. He still refers to it. bought a big bag full of groceries. After World War II, there was a boom in fly tying Today Ralph ties only on a custom basis. Fellow interest. Many doctors recommended it as therapy for fishermen place an order for what they want, then he goes wounded veterans. Interest by trout fishermen soared, to work at the vise. He keeps only a limited stock of flies too. As a result, the various neck hackles, fur, and other on hand. For him, it is satisfying to make up what dis­ natural tying materials were literally eaten up by the cerning sportsmen want. Many times the orders are for public. Ralph claims that since that time he has had special flies of new and original patterns, too. Few men trouble finding quality material. are willing to go to the trouble of tying such specialities The cost of materials used in fly tying has also soared. these days, but it's just another challenge for Ralph! What cost a buck before World War II now may cost He has a fantastic collection of old, quality bamboo fly ten! But no matter what the price, one cannot buy the rods. Rather, they are not a collection, all are in use when quality of the old days. Ralph says the quality of the fly he can find time to get away for a session of fishing. In­ never exceeds the quality of the tying material. cluded are those from some of the famous makers: In this respect, he thrives on tying only the best. First Hardy, Leonard, Payne, Regent, and others. Ralph and foremost, he loves to tie top-quality dry flies. Dry fly pulled out a sack of reels to show me. He could hardly lift fishing has always been his favorite method. Like many it! There were over 30 reels in that bag, many of them trout fishermen, he gets his biggest thrill from those dating back to the early part of this century. splashy top water strikes. Accordingly, he loves to have Ralph retired in 1960. Naturally, he has been spending the fellows that buy his flies come back to tell him stories much of his spare time since fishing and at the vise. He about the dry fly patterns with which they have had suc­ says without fly tying, it would be a boring retirement cess. life. He usually has more business than he can handle.

2o PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER Veteran Fly tier Ralph E. Ford tests the action of his favorite dry fly rod, a light seven foot "Regent."

Notes From the Streams REQUESTS BEDFORD WALKING IS WORTHWHILE! continued from page 25 COUNTY I have some streams in my district that ARE TROUT "CAT-FISH? During the first part of the trout have roadways that are gated by the property owner. This stocking season I, There are many four-legged predators season this year, I have received more 0r as usual, took the fish through the gates > fish, both real and imaginary, to be requests relative to trout streams, and stocked the stream. The stream itself •ound in Pennsylvania, especially during stocking of trout, and "lodging accom­ is open but the roadways are closed to the closed season after the stocking of the modations for several days," than any public travel. I was very surprised to have state's many trout streams. I feel I may previous year. The requests are by phone one fellow tell me of the disgust of the have seen one of the most unusual! and letter . . . most of them from quite truck followers that they could not drive Recently, I had completed stocking the u a distance from Bedford County. along behind the truck on these closed Pper section of Black Log Creek in William E. Mcllnay roadways. It is only with the consent of Juniata County and was returning down Waterways Patrolman the landowner that the streams are open the valley when I spotted this predator Bedford County to public fishing! To have this kind of talking through a field near the stream. I criticism being leveled at the large stopped and backed up to get a closer landowner companies is unfair. What '°ok at the animal which was carrying a n would happen if these companies would 'Ce nine inch trout firmly in its mouth. It QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS! say, "Stay off my land whether with vehi­ saw me getting nearer, but refused to The wife of a waterways patrolman cles or on foot!"? Then you would see drop the fish, crouching in the grass and receives many strange calls and two of w some real ill-tempered feelings. A little atching me closely. After a few mo­ these calls come to mind at this time. walking to catch that limit offish will not ments, I drove away allowing the black ar One was from a very young boy wanting hurt an angler. If anything, it will help >d white house cat to continue on its Wa to know if he could go across from his him greatly. y with a nice trout dinner. Whether he home, in a trailer park, and fish on had picked the trout up in the field after Stanley G. Hastings 11 Sunday. He was afraid that the "fish had jumped from a bucket unnoticed, warden" would arrest him for "fishing on Waterways Patrolman 0r deftly scooped it from the stream, I Cameron County W Sunday". Another caller, also a young 'U allow the "cat haters" or "cat boy, wanted to know how many worms lovers" to decide. he was allowed to possess. Each of us has a responsibility Larry R. Baker Stanley G. Hastings to teach our youngsters good out­ Waterways Patrolman Waterways Patrolman door manners. Have you started? Mifflin/Juniata Counties Cameron County

SEPTEMBER — 1974 27 vania's most rustic countryside. If you "It's a shame," continued my com­ travel along the Kettle in this area, you panion, "those sulfur duns spend two or Keystone can only be impressed with the wild three years in the mud and silt of the dam nature of the hills and valleys that greet and emerge only to be eaten! For those you at every turn in the road with the that survive, mating will occur in a few Kettle always cutting a blue ribbon days when both males and females ap­ thread through it all. pear again from their hiding and thou­ Camping sands may be seen above the stream for a The Kettle is a particularly great early season trout stream, but as spring short time before the eggs are de­ progresses, fascinating caddis hatches posited." by Thad Bukowski come off the waters to additionally Later, we traveled along farther intrique the fly addict. Other insects upstream to nearby Alvin R. Bush Dam interest the purist later in the summer which was constructed as a flood control ne of the state's top-notch trout also. project in 1962 on the watershed to help O streams, noted also folr its small­ When we stopped at the lower Kettle stow water above the west branch of the mouth bass action during the summer, campground, sulfur dun mayflies were Susquehanna as a flood protection, spills southward out of Potter County, slowly rising in the late afternoon sun particularly for nearby Renovo. into Clinton, and forms a picturesque and precariously making their way The 160 acre summer lake has a length section of the Pennsylvania countryside toward the treetops to hide under the of 2.2 miles, good for canoeing and small all the way to the Susquehanna's West leaves. Few of those we watched, boat activity, with 4.5 miles of natural Branch, into which it flows. however, got much higher than 40 feet; shoreline for additional fishing. A turf It is the Kettle Creek watershed and it and we saw none make it to the trees. beach, with designated swimming area, gathers additional flow from two other "Look at the quiet drama nature is dressing area, sanitary facilities, boat outstanding trout waters, Hammersley spreading before us," my trout traveling launching ramp and parking, and picnic Fork and Cross Fork, until halted along companion, Ray Bales said. He looked spots at the dam's upper shore provide the mid-course of the Kettle at Alvin R. around at the early evening supper hustle fine summer recreation facilities. The Bush Dam which has a fine campsite on by campers about us and quietly added, camping site is hidden in the nearest the wooded hillside overlooking the im­ "And none of the campers appear to be wooded hillside above. poundment. aware of what is taking place." Rowboats, sailboats and canoes are Hardly a stone's throw downstream is As each sulfur dun glistened in the sun, permitted on the lake. Available fish another campsite right on the shores of climbing towards its haven, a crested fly species include brook, rainbow and Kettle Creek where a small dam holds catcher gracefully floated down from the brown trout, and smallmouth bass. back the waters of the Kettle again, just nearby trees and plucked it out of the The combined facilities of Alvin R. momentarily, for good smallmouth bass air for supper. Nearly a half-dozen Bush and the lower Kettle campgrounds fishing. Trout action is also available flycatchers patrolled the dam which was provide for a secluded camping op­ since this is a favorite squaretail stocking the only place where the duns were portunity for those who like to be away point. Youngsters also have panfish winging out of the water. The copper red­ from the crowds in one of Pennsylvania's action hereabouts and I have seen them dish hues of the birds were equally beau­ sections of "wild country" with many take some fine longear sunfish. tiful to view in the early July evening and trout fishing opportunities available as The two campsites are hidden away in the blossoming mountain laurel, in the well as swimming and quiet boating the north central section of Pennsyl­ peak of its bloom, completed the scene. possibilities. THE ANGLER'S NOTEBOOK by Richard F. Williamson

FISH FACT: Northern pike seldom point to remember is that the slower the Muddler minnows are versatile feed at night, and as a result empty jig is retrieved, the more action will come artificial lures that will take bass, stomachs spur them to feed vigorously from the marabou. walleyes, northern pike, and pickerel as during the early hours of the day, and well as trout. They represent forms of they continue feeding until darkness Lift a hooked bass out of the water natural fish food: large nymphs, sculpin comes again. by grasping it firmly by the lower jaw. and bullhead minnows, and crawfish. The bass so handled will rarely put up a They should be fished slowly and close to Slow trolling with a plug having a long struggle. the bottom. lip is not the best method. The lips are designed to make the plug travel deep in Hold the rod tip high in popping or Squeaks in the oarlocks of a rented the water, but trolling speed also is re­ twitching surface lure. The rod angle will boat are a problem. Dip the metal attach­ quired to get the lure down. The best way keep a considerable length of line off the ments on the oars in the water from time is to adjust the trolling speed so that you water surface and make it easier to to time, or put a bit of oil on them. can feel the plug barely knicking the bot­ manipulate the lure and set the hooks, tom, then slow down just enough to allow should you get a strike. the lure to travel freely. Change the speed of the retrieve Very small lures often produce fish frequently when fishing with lures for Good river spots for bass include the when those of larger sizes fail, but do not pike and bass. Sometimes fish will travel tails of deep pools, deep holes close to the make the mistake of using a heavy, stiff a considerable distance to attack a lure, banks, water around large rocks, swift rod and a heavy leader with the midgets. but at other times they refuse to exert rapids and deep riffles. A light and whippy casting or spinning themselves and will strike a lure only rod and a line of not more than six or when it is placed within easy reach and is A wide variety of land insects — eight pounds test are the proper com­ traveling at a leisurely pace. grasshoppers, inch worms, beetles, ants, bination. and bees, for example — are good bugs Before moving the boat from an area to imitate when fishing a trout stream Don't be too proud to fish for carp. you are fishing, try a few casts at very after a brisk summer shower. Raindrops They may not be the best eating, but they short distances. Fish often gang up in the knock these land insects off trees and are strong and determined fighters when shadow of an anchored boat. other vegetation, and trout are waiting hooked on light tackle. for them. Be sure your anchor rope is long In trolling weedy water, inspect the lure Jigs dressed with marabou are the enough to meet all water depths you will frequently and keep it clean. A bit of favorites of a great many anglers. This is encounter while fishing. Some states re­ moss or weed can foul a spinner blade or because marabou "works" in tantalizing quire this by law. But common sense keep a plug from working properly. And fashion, producing much better action dictates that too short a rope will make fish ignore lures that have debris trailing than hair, feathers, or other dressings. A an anchor useless. on them.

In Memoriam

H. R. Stackhouse Budd R. Brooks H. R. Stackhouse, who served the Pennsylvania Budd R. Brooks, who began his Fish Commission Pish Commission for 43 years, passed away Aprii, career at the Bellefonte Hatchery in 1945, passed 1974. Mr. Stackhouse joined the Commission as a away on June 17, 1974, having served in a number clerk in the Harrisburg office in 1917. In 1923 he of capacities since that time. In 1949, Budd served Was named administrative secretary by then as "Fish Warden" in Washington and Greene Governor Pinchot, the post he held until his Counties, and in 1956 transferred to the Benner retirement in I960. During his tenure, "Stacky," as Spring Fish Research Station to assume duties as he was known to all, served twice as acting fish stocking manager, the position he held up until Executive Director and the Commission's Training his death. School at Bellefonte was named in his honor. In 1971 he received the "Governor's Meritorious n * 1954 he received the gold medal award for Citation" for his efforts in streamlining the Com­ fisheries conservation work from the Pennsylvania mission's fish distribution system which resulted in Pish & Game Protective Association. an annual saving of $40,000.00.

SEPTEMBER — 1974 29 Since passenger movement afloat is a dangerous practice, organize gear within arm's reach while ashore.

questions which he must answer based on his boating interests and anticipated needs, present and future. I point out emphatically that, like most things in life, se­ lecting the proper boat involves compromise and more Ashore compromise. Take boat length — everyone would like a 65-footer but few of us will ever own one. All of us seem to want a boat that is fast, but out of necessity, regu­ & lation, and common sense safety, most of us will operate it far below its top speed most of the time. Many of us desire all the conveniences of home aboard yet short of a Afloat spacious houseboat end up "roughing it" to some degree or another. We seek a sleek, razor-edged bow that will by Gene Winters slice through rough water like a hot knife in butter. But at the same time it must be steady enough when at rest to or years we have heard the adage. "Never discuss reli­ balance a glass of water on the deck without spilling a F gion and politics unless you want to make an enemy drop. Compromise, compromise . . . out of a friend." In these days of wide open topics of con­ What probably saves most of us from courting fi­ versation it may not hold true, but if it does, maybe we nancial disaster is the fact that our first boat is usually should add: "or types of boats and hulls"! When it comes small, relatively simple in design, and a "bareboat" in the to boat talk, nothing can get you into a heated verbal fullest sense of the word. And it is relatively inexpensive. confrontation faster than favoring one type over another. If we make the wrong choice (or our boating needs But there is no easy answer to which boat is best — even change) it does not throw us into bankruptcy. For the for you. Contemplating a boat purchase should start with lucky ones, that first boat blossoms into a never-ending a checklist of questions which the prospective buyer must love affair. When I purchased a 21-foot daycruiser my answer for himself. If you already own a boat, chances sentimental nature took control of me and I could not are you found some of your answers after the fact. But bear to part with my first boat. My romantic affair with present boatowners be forewarned; if a buyer-to-be that little 14-footer was overwhelming and still is. While realizes you have more than thirty days boating I can navigate my larger boat in most any water, experience under your belt, you are fair game for a bar­ including selected coastal waters, the inherent limitations rage of questions and he will be perplexed and dismayed of the smaller boat have been blessings in disguise. I can to no end why you can not supply absolute answers. At enjoy the 14-footer in waters where motors are not this point in time, he will swear the boat he is considering permitted and float it in water shallower than in which I will be a lifetime marriage of man and machine. can row. I can quickly clamp an electric motor on the Over the years, helpful though I try to be, I have tried transom or mount it on the bow and chase those crazy to steer clear of definitive answers to searching questions. Pennsylvania bass in lakes of 50 acres or more. If the lure When queried, I try to give the newcomer a verbal list of of the musky in the Susquehanna overpowers me, I

30 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER simply lock on a gasoline outboard powerful enough to make balance difficult and motions easily done on land do the job but small and light enough to handle by can become highly dangerous on water. In a smaller myself. No enlisting help from the wife's relatives is boat, each activity is magnified by the smaller space to do necessary. My only pet peeve about the 14-footer is that it in. It is important that everything be organized within its weight (over 240 pounds) is too great to be cartopped arm's length. Its shape and freeboard characteristics or wrestled into the water by a normal size man. But a make the johnboat suitable for use only in calm water. small, adequate trailer, and a nearby launching ramp, are But make no mistake — the johnboat represents a all I need to make a day of solitary boating and fishing good compromise "starter" boat for many. If this be still an easy undertaking. Though its length, beam, your choice, let me add some final advice: look for a boat freeboard and weight penalize me in the handling de­ with more beam (width) per given length, more freeboard partment on land, on the water these same limitations (greater "side height" above the water's surface) and a bring a premium of higher horsepower rating and greater fairly high bow and stern. Make sure it has flotation and weight-carrying capability. (Did someone mention com­ lots of it. Coast Guard regulations require new boats to promise?) have just enough flotation to keep the swamped boat If you are typical of many first boat buyers in Pennsyl­ afloat with passengers clinging to the outside. Some boat vania (and especially if you are a fisherman) your first builders, however, are installing sufficient flotation to nautical love affair is likely to involve a johnboat, one of keep the boat floating upright and level, and in some the most popular boats in the world. Johnboats are typi­ cases, with passengers inside. cally lightweight flat-bottomed utility type boats, But any boat can only be made safe up to a point. No popular in small rivers, lakes, large ponds and large matter what size boat, it still takes a man to run it. creeks. The secrets of the johnboat's success are not hard Follow the few simple rules that will keep you safe. Pick to find. Their shape and construction makes them com­ your water and winds carefully. Know not only your paratively inexpensive, a favorite with hunters as well as boat's capability, but your own ability. Don't overpower fishermen. The johnboat makes the near ideal cartop and don't overload. Follow that capacity plate to the let­ boat because its size and weight make it easy for one or ter! And remember, it applies to normal conditions of two people to load, unload, and put in the water without wind and sea. It is not a bit of added decoration. Dis­ strain. tribute weight of gear and passengers so the boat does not The johnboat user does pay a price, though. (Com­ list to either side and the bow and stern ride about level. promise?) In order to achieve the advantages mentioned, And, consider wearing a personal flotation device (PFD), it incurs some waterborne disadvantages. The light- not just carrying it on board. Weight, flat bottom, shallow draft and narrow chine Remember, johnboats, like all others, are safe only if beam combine to produce a boat that reacts and moves you are careful. Handled properly and with devoted Quickly in response to passenger movement. This can respect, they will do their job and do it well! The johnboat's extremely light weight and comparatively low cost make it attractive to many first time boaters.

..""-*»»» A FISHING FEATURE FOR ffiLvJ] FISHERMENFROM FISHERMEN ^FISH^TALESp1

A Mt. Bethel angler, John Beresch, caught his 22-inch, 6-pound, small- mouth bass in Northampton County's Delaware River, last April.

Mayor Edwin Nordahl, of Nicholson, shows the 27-3/4-inch, 17-1/2-pound Donald Besecker, of Stroudsburg. chain pickerel taken from Lake Carey, caught his 26-1/2-inch, 7-pound Wyoming Co., in February. American Shad from the Delaware River, Monroe County, last April.

Harry Hug hey, of Altoona, shows his 40-inch, 17-1/2-pound musky taken from Raystown Branch of the Juaniata River last May.

Angler Edward Long, of Bethlehem, holds the 20-inch, 4-pound small- Little Brian Lucas, 6, of Erie, caught mouth bass also taken from the Dela­ this beauty last April, a 25-3/4-inch, 5- Earl Beichler, 14, of Dalton, caught his ware River, Northampton County. 5/8-pound steelhead trout from Twenty Mile Creek. 19-inch, 3-pound brown trout in the S. Br. of Tunkhannock Creek, Lacka­ wanna County, in April.

Keith Gorman, 13, of Allentown, Connie Freudenrich, 10, of Glen Rock, A Sharon Hill youth, Sam Rowe, Jr., caught this nice 20-inch, 3-pound N.J., holds her 35-1/4-inch, 24-pound caught this nice 19-inch, 5-pound rainbow trout last April from Monroe flathead catfish taken from the Alle­ largemouth bass last March from the County's Leisure Lake. gheny River, Warren Co. Chester-Octoraro Reservoir.

32 PENNSYLVANIA FISH COMMISSION DIRECTORY State Headquarters: 3532 Walnut Street, Progress, Pa. (Mailing Address: PO Box 1673, Harrisburg, Pa. 17120) EXECUTIVE OFFICE Ralph W. Abele, Executive Director Administrative Assistant Howard T. Hardie COMPTROLLER Edward T. Durkin

Office of Information Willard T. Johns, Director 11 7-787-2579 Conservation Education & Training, Stephen B. Ulsh . . .717-787-7394 Pennsylvania Angler, James F. Yoder, Editor 717-787-2411 Special Publications, Larry Shaffer 717-787-7394 Angler Circulation, Eleanor Mutch 717-787-2363 BUREAU OF FISHERIES & ENGINEERING Edward R. Miller, P.E., Director Box 70, RD 1, Bellefonte, Pa. 16823* 814-359-2754* (*Unless otherwise indicated, all offices within this bureau may be reached at this same address and telephone number.)

FISHERIES DIVISION* Delano Graff, Chief Trout Production Section, Ken Corl. Chief Fisheries Management Section, Robert Hesser, Chief Warm Water Production Section. Shyrl Hood, Chief . .814-683-4451 Research Section. Courtney C. Gustafson, Chief 814-355-4837 Box 1 27, Linesville, Pa. 1 6424 Benner Spring Fish Research Station. Box 200-C. Bellefonte. Pa. 1 6823 Cooperative Nursery Branch, Robert Brown, Chief" FISH CULTURAL STATIONS BELLEFONTE, John Bair, Superintendent 814-359-2754 LINESVILLE, Tom L Clark, Superintendent 814-683-4451 RD 1, Bellefonte, Pa. 16823 Box 127, Linesville. Pa. 16424 BENNER SPRING, William Kennedy. Superintendent 814-355-4837 OSWAYO, D Ray Merriman, Superintendent 814-698-2001 RD 1, Box 200-C. Bellefonte, Pa 16823 RD 2, Box 84. Coudersport, Pa. 16915 BIG SPRING, Wayne Weigle, Superintendent 717-776-3170 PLEASANT MOUNT, Zenas Bean, Superintendent 717-448-2101 Box 24, RD 1. Newville, Pa. 17241 Pleasant Mount, Pa. 18453 CORRY-UNION CITY, Leroy Sorenson, Superintendent . .814-664-2122 REYNOLDSDALE, Ralph Berkey, Superintendent 814-839-2211 Corry, Pa. 16407 New Paris, Pa. 1 5554 HUNTSDALE, Ted Dingle. Superintendent 717-486-3419 TIONESTA, Charles Mann, Foreman 814-755-3567 Box 393. RD 5. Carlisle, Pa. 17013 Tionesta, Pa. 16353 WALNUT CREEK, Neil Shea. Foreman Fairview, Pa. 16415 814-838-3424

ENGINEERING DIVISION* Wilbert F. Hobbs, P.E., Chief Roy Frank, Assistant Chief Construction & Maintenance Section, Eugene Smith, Chief Fisheries Environmental Services Branch, Jack Miller, Chief

BUREAU OF WATERWAYS (State Headquarters) Capt. Charles E. Leising, Director

LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION WATERCRAFT DIVISION

John I. Buck. Chief 717-787-2350 Paul Martin, Chief 717-787-7684 Edward W. Manhart. Deputy Chief 717-787-2350 Gene Sporl, Marine Education Specialist 717-787-7684 REGIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICES NORTHWEST, Walter G. Lazusky, Supervisor 814-437-5774 SOUTHWEST, Thomas F Quakers. Supervisor 814-445-8974 Mailing Address: 1293 Otter St., Franklin. Pa. 16323 Mailing Address: RD 2, Somerset, Pa. 15501 Location: 1293 Otter St., Franklin, Pa. 16323 Location: On Lake Somerset. Somerset, Pa. NORTHCENTRAL, Miles D.Witt, Supervisor 717-748-5411 SOUTHCENTRAL, Richard Owens, Supervisor 717-436-2117 Mailing Address: Box 688, Lock Haven, Pa. 17745 Mailing Address: RD 1, Mifflintown. Pa. 17059 Location: 129 Woodward Ave. (Dunnstown) Lock Haven, Pa. Location: On Route 22, 3 miles west of Mifflintown, Pa. NORTHEAST, Clair Fleeger. Supe/v/sor 717-477-5717 SOUTHEAST, Norman W Sickles, Supervisor 717-626-0228 Mailing Address: Box 88, Sweet Valley, Pa. 1 8656 Mailing Address: RD 2. Lititz, Pa. 17543 Location: On Harris Pond. Sweet Valley. Pa. Location: On Speedwell Forge Lake, on Brubaker Valley Road. BUREAU OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES (State Headquarters) Paul F. O'Brien, Director Personnel & Employment, Leon D. Boncarosky 717-787-7057 License Section, Mary Stine 717-787-6237 Budget Analyst, Vincent Rollant 717-787-2599 Federal Aid Coordinator, Glen C. Reed 717-787-6391 Real Estate, John Hoffman 717-787-6376 Office Services Supervisor, ChesterPeyton 717-787-2363 Purchasing (Harrisburg) Avyril Richardson 717-787-2732 Purchasing (Bellefonte) Bud Sampsell 814-359-2754 That's Bob Anderson, holding his giant coho salmon caught in Lake Erie!

Sure, that one's gone—but there will be many more replacing it this year!

Besides, this year we expect to see some chinooks nearly twice that size!

So, get on up to Erie! And, take the Angler along for some enjoyable reading.

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