Angler Flirts with World Bass Record

ADVENTURE Fly-fishing on the Guadalupe March 24, 2006 Texas’ Premier Outdoor Newspaper Volume 2, Issue 15 See Page 19 www.lonestaroutdoornews.com

INSIDE FISHING Angler flirts with world bass record By Darlene McCormick Escondido, Calif., March 20 when he If the catch meets International Sanchez landed what could be the world-record Game Fish Association requirements, largemouth bass. Weakley’s fish would break the 74-year- The fish weighed in at 25.1 pounds old record. The reigning record large- California’s Mac Weakley and his on a hand-held Berkley digital scale, mouth bass, weighing 22 pounds, 4 longtime fishing buddies ended their said Weakley, 32, of Carlsbad, Calif., in ounces, was caught in 1932 by George quest for fishing’s Holy Grail on a rainy a phone interview. Perry at Georgia’s Montgomery Lake. Monday morning with a white rat- “We’ve been after that fish and two But there’s a catch to this fish story: A lack of a true winter has the tlesnake jig. other fish for years. It’s crazy. It’s been a Weakley foul-hooked the bass behind notoriously picky walleye biting Weakley was bed-fishing near the wild day — a really, really, wild day,” he 25-1 POUNDS: Mike Winn holds the fish Mac early this year at Lake Meredith. handicapped pier at Dixon Lake in said. See Record, Page 10 Weakley caught. Photo by Mac Weakley. Even so, lake guides say the fish are still fussy about what they go after. See Page 8

Think you’ve caught a record- breaking fish but all you’ve got to weigh it on is a hand-held scale. Well, you could still end up a winner. Hand-held scales can be certified by the IGFA after the fact or by a commercial calibration company. See Page 8 HUNTING

Increased hunting pressure has led to “smarter” waterfowl, experts say. They’ve learned a lot of the hunters’ tricks — often educated by impulsive hunters who can’t resist firing at wary birds that are too far away. See Page 6 NATIONAL

More than 150,000 square miles of ocean off the West Coast has been deemed Essential Fish Habitat and slated for protection from such commercial fishing practices as a bottom trawling, thanks to a plan approved by the TV STARS: Mary Delgado and pro angler Byron Velvick show off a 7-pound bass near their new home on Amistad Reservoir. Velvick met his fiancee on the hit TV National Oceanic and Atmos- show “The Bachelor.” Photo by David J. Sams. pheric Administration . See Page 2 CONSERVATION Border lake luring pro fishermen Land owners along the Canadian River in Texas and By Alan Clemons Bass-fishing stars looking to make pound bass, which is the biggest New Mexico could get financial one of my career. It’s an amazing help from the federal govern- lake. I’m actually looking at buying ment to improve their habitat for el Rio has become a boom- Amistad Reservoir area home property here.” wildlife. The National Wild town with a touch of Professional angler Byron celebrity thanks to Amistad Velvick, who was featured on “The Turkey Federation will disperse D Amistad tourney time — PAGE 12 the funds. Reservoir, which is being touted as Bachelor” in 2004, is way ahead of the top bass fishing lake in the the curve. He moved from Las See Page 5 property and relocating to this down I did not want to leave,” said nation right now. small border town. New Jersey’s Mike Iaconelli, who Vegas to Del Rio in January, and his Major players in the professional “We usually fish from sunup to grabs national attention with his fiancé, Mary Delgado, is getting her fishing world are snapping up sundown, and when the sun went bad-boy image. “I caught a 13- See PROS, Page 11 DEPARTMENTS

Across the Nation Page 5 PRSRT STD Turkey opener hit or miss US POSTAGE Product Picks Page 13 PAID keys, which account for about 95 Heroes Page 14 By Mark England PLANO, TX percent of all the wild turkeys in PERMIT 210 Outdoor Puzzler Page 15 Texas, this season should be high, The joke could be on turkey according to Texas Parks and Wild in the Kitchen Page 15 hunters come April 1. Wildlife. The birds are found Despite recent heavy rains west of Interstate 35 up to Weather Page 15 in North Texas, ongoing Hunting safety the Panhandle with scat- drought conditions in much tips tered populations as far west Game Warden Blotter Page 16 of the state could disrupt the PAGE 4A as the Midland area. They mating rituals this hunting spend their winters along Outdoor Datebook Page 17 season, making hunting more diffi- creek and river bottoms. Come nest- Fishing Report Page 18 cult. ing season, they move out into The numbers for Rio Grande tur- See Turkeys, Page 10 Page 2 March 24, 2006 NATIONAL Fishery protection plan first of its kind Area from Canada to Mexico to prohibit bottom trawling The National Oceanic and Atmospheric eries under the administration’s National aries as “habitat areas of particular con- Administration approved a plan earlier this Ocean Policy. cern.” This designation will alert other month to establish and protect more than “This is the time we have taken such an agencies that are active in these areas that 150,000 square miles of marine waters off extensive approach to protecting offshore NOAA Fisheries Service may have conserva- the West Coast as Essential Fish Habitat. habitat,” said Bob Lohn, head of NOAA tion recommendations to ensure projects The plan prohibits fishing methods with- Fisheries Service’s Northwest Region in do not harm bottom-dwelling fish. in much of this area that can cause long- Seattle. “Over the long run, we expect that The NOAA Fisheries Service said it would term damage to the ocean floor, such as bot- not only will we have a healthier ocean but not include in its areas of particular concern tom trawling. Developed by the Pacific that the fishing will get better as well.” any of the 13 decommissioned oil rigs off Fishery Management Council, the plan is The plan was developed with support and the California coast, included in the coun- aimed at replenishing fish stocks. It covers advice from both environmental and fish- cil’s original proposal, that can attract a an area from Canada to Mexico, out to 200 ing industry groups. The agency added that wide array of plants and animals and serve nautical miles in some places. NOAA is the its own economic analysis of the closures, as productive habitat areas on their own. federal agency that oversees management based on historic data on landings, showed “We’re not opposed to considering leav- of ocean fishing in the United States. that less than 10 percent of revenue from ing some or all these platforms in place to The approval of the plan will provide commercial fishing comes from areas that serve as fish habitat,” said Rod McInnis, much-needed habitat protection to areas will be closed. Even that loss is expected to head of the NOAA Fisheries Service’s that are essential to commercially valuable be made up as fishermen move their opera- Southwest Region in Long Beach, Calif. fish. The habitat protection comes on the tions to areas that remain open. “But we think it’s premature to designate heels of recommendations by national Although the NOAA Fisheries Service them as special habitat areas until we have a review panels that the government should does not have regulatory authority over better understanding of how they can best do more to protect pristine ocean areas and non-fishing activities that may damage contribute to habitat protection and fragile habitats. The action is considered habitat, the plan includes designating vari- growth.” part of achieving sustainable marine fish- ous habitats such as kelp, sea grass and estu- —A NOAA report Gulf refuge damages threaten system

At a recent hearing in the U.S. House of Representatives, the National Wildlife Refuge Association detailed the massive hurricane damage to Gulf Coast national wildlife refuges and urged Congress to take swift action to speed their restoration. Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Wilma and Dennis inflicted damage to 66 national wildlife refuges in eight states. “This is literally an unmitigated disaster,” said Evan Hirsche, President of the National Wildlife Refuge Association. “The estimated $270 million in damages repre- sents approximately 70 percent of the Refuge System’s annual budget. America’s diverse wildlife heritage will suffer a great blow if we don’t act quickly to address the damages.” According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, total facility and habitat damages from the 2005 storms have exceeded $270 million. At Breton NWR in Louisiana, which includes all of the federally owned Chandeleur islands, an estimated 50-70 percent of habitat was completely washed away, with nothing but open water remain- ing. A number of refuges are also contami- nated with hazardous materials. “As we sit here today, more than 1,400 barrels of toxic liquids and gases are sinking further into the low-lying marsh right in the heart of Sabine National Wildlife Refuge (La.),” said Hirsche. “In short, we’re looking at a refuge that’s effectively been converted to a toxic dump.” An emergency supplemental request from President Bush asks for $132.4 million for facility repair and clean up on hurricane-impacted refuges. The NWRA has called on Congress to approve emergency funding for refuges of at least the level requested by President Bush. Further, Hirsche urged members of the committee to support an additional $88 million to address habitat and natural resource damage in another supplemental funding bill this year. “Restoring the marshes and estuaries vital to supporting wildlife is only half the equation,” said Hirsche. “We now recog- nize that these areas are also critical to the security of coastal communities and provide economic benefits in the form of recreation and tourism. By supporting additional funds to sufficiently address the massive refuge facility and natural resource damages, both wildlife and people benefit.” —A National Wildlife Refuge Association report. WE WENT BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD. THEN WE WENT BEYOND IT.

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©2006 General Motors Corp. All rights reserved. Yukon, GMC and GMC logo are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. Page 4 March 24, 2006 NATIONAL NWTF Feds nail Texas lists tips hunting violators for spring with 32 citations hunting A citizen’s tip to a game war- The surveillance operation den led to 32 federal citations resulted in seizure of 41 ducks A safe turkey hunter, like a safe against six people from and two geese, along with 134 driver, is defensive-minded. Below Delaware accused of violating 20-gauge lead shot shells. are tips to help you enjoy a safe, hunting laws on their The combined law enforce- successful hunt: Guadalupe River Delta proper- ment effort by Texas Parks and Defensive turkey ty. Wildlife and the U.S. Fish and Calhoun County Game Wildlife Service resulted in hunting tactics Warden Kevin Stancik received fines totaling $18,775. In addi- the tip and contacted Stacy tion they were assessed civil • Select the largest stump, blow- Campbell, a U.S. Fish and wildlife restitution of $4,644 down, tree trunk or rock that is Wildlife Service Agent in by TPW. wider than your shoulders and Victoria, and they initiated a “We’ve had a great working higher than your head to place joint investigation. relationship with US Fish and your back against when calling; a The law enforcement officers Wildlife Service agents that hunter is more likely to spot began their surveillance of two has helped us enforce laws to another hunter when moving to waterfowl hunting blinds protect migratory birds in our the front or side than from behind. located on the private water- region,” said Capt. Rex Mayes • Eliminate the colors white, fowl-hunting club property in with TPW Law Enforcement in red, black and blue from your late January. During the sur- Victoria. hunting outfit; this includes handkerchiefs, socks, underwear, etc. veillance operation, Game “Game Warden Kevin These are the colors of a turkey Warden Stancik and Service Stancik has worked effectively gobbler. Agent Campbell said they in our area for many years. His • Select your calling spot in open observed the six individuals experience and his diligence in timber rather than thick brush; from Delaware commit the fol- working with U.S. Fish and eliminating movement is a key to lowing violations: Wildlife Service enabled us to success, not concealment. Take more than the limit; apprehend these individuals SAFE HUNTING: Outdoorsmen should be defensive-minded when in quest of a wild • Be discreet when imitating the take more than the daily bag and charge them with multi- turkey gobbler. sound of a gobbling turkey. limit of a single species, wan- ple offenses.” • A good woodsman can always ton waste of migratory water- “The enforcement of water- detect movement in the forest by Dress for safety and success guidelines fowl, hunting with an fowl hunting violations con- watching other game or listening unplugged shotgun, posses- tinues to be vital to the core sion of lead shot shells, hunt- mission of the Service and as for the alarm cries of blue jays, • Never wear red, white, blue or black because these are the colors of ing without a Federal such should re-instill legal crows, squirrels or woodpeckers. a wild turkey gobbler. This includes handkerchiefs, socks, underwear, Migratory Bird Hunting and hunter ethics in all who hunt Be alert. etc. Conservation Stamp. The waterfowl,” said Juliana Scully, • When songbirds, crows or your • Wear dark undershirts and socks, and pants long enough to be hunters also lacked a state assistant special agent in turkey shuts up, look out. There’s a tucked into boots. good chance another hunter is • Camouflage your gun. hunting license, state water- charge for the Service’s moving in on your bird. • Keep your hands and head camouflaged when calling. fowl stamp and killed migrato- Southwest Region. • Never move, wave or make • Select a spot that is in open timber rather than thick brush: wear- ry waterfowl in a closed season. — A TPW report turkey sounds to alert another ing camouflage clothing and eliminating movement is more critical hunter of your presence. Remain to success than hiding in heavy cover. still and speak in a loud, clear voice • When using a camouflage blind or netting, maintain a clear field to announce your presence. These of view. New & Used tactics are safer than quick move- — A National Wild Turkey Federation report ments. Use common sense. STORAGE CONTAINERS LETTER TO THE EDITOR In reference to your 2/24 issue: Hunters, try to learn something means intended as a partisan jab. LARRY SINGLEY It’s nice to see your dedication to from this.” End of story. Why these Only to state that as hunters/shoot- firearm safety, as is evident in the incidents are referred to as “acci- ers, we must all learn to take on a 817-992-9122 “Ten Commandments Of Shooting dents” is beyond me. Any act much higher level of responsibility 866-992-9122 Safety” on page 7. Very nice piece of involving the deliberate firing of a when carrying a firearm. Know information, kept short and sweet. firearm that results in injury to your target. Know what’s in front, TOLL FREE I feel your story on the Armstrong another individual or damage to an as well as behind your target. And, Ranch incident in the same issue unintended target while hunting is know it is safe to shoot, before you could just as easily saved page space not an “accident.” It is a “careless pull the trigger. by stating: “VP Cheney broke the act,” most often fueled by igno- See you safely in the fields. OCEAN FREIGHT CONTAINERS, INC. ARLINGTON, TX following Commandments — 1, 3, rance and/or complacency. My J. MCWILLIAM, 6, 9, 10 and possibly 7 as well. voicing of these opinions is by no KELLER TX

EDITORIAL OFFICES: 9304 Forest Lane, Suite 114 South, Dallas, TX 75243 Phone: (214) 361-2276 Fax: (214) 368-0344 Publisher: CRAIG NYHUS Editor: DARLENE MCCORMICK SANCHEZ Design Editor: DUDLEY GREEN Associate Editor: MARK ENGLAND Associate Editor: DAV I D RENFROW Subscription Services: DEBORAH COMER Founder & CEO: DAV I D J. SAMS

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES: Order online via secure Web site at www.lonestaroutdoornews.com or call toll-free (866) 361-2276 ADVERTISING SERVICES: Call (214) 361-2276 or e-mail [email protected] to request a media kit. Lone Star Outdoor News, a publication of Lone Star Outdoor News, LLC, publishes twice a month. A subscription is $25 for 24 issues. Copyright 2006 with all rights reserved. Reproduction and/or use of any photographic or written material without written permission by the publisher is prohibited. Printed in Dallas, TX, by Midway Press. Subscribers may send address changes to: Lone Star Outdoor News, 9304 Forest Lane, Suite 114 South, Dallas, TX 75243 or e-mail them to [email protected]. March 24, 2006 Page 5 CONSERVATION Grant opens door to habitat work along Canadian River EVERYBODY’S Through a grant from Landowners will also the U.S. Fish & Wildlife receive expert advice on Service, the National Wild their conservation plans Turkey Federation will help from NWTF biologists. COMFORTABLE. landowners enhance their The first grant project property along the included riparian fencing, Canadian River in Texas invasive species control, and New Mexico this year. planting trees and grasses The $160,000 grant is and creating alternative EXCEPT THE part of the Private water sources for cattle. The Stewardship Grants pro- second phase of the project gram, which provides will continue those efforts. funding assistance to con- “The majority of habitat servation efforts that bene- along the Canadian River COMPETITION. fit at-risk wildlife species. is privately owned,” said With millions of acres in Joel Pedersen, NWTF sen- private hands, it’s vital ior biologist. “We are excit- landowners understand ed about the past success of their roles in wildlife con- this initiative and look for- GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab SLT servation and the opportu- ward to helping additional nities available to help landowners enhance their them enhance their prop- property for wildlife. It is erty for wildlife. This is only through landowner especially true for running cooperation that this proj- waterways and other ripar- ect is possible.” ian areas. In addition, the grant “Riparian and watershed also paid for a Hunting habitat is especially impor- Heritage Landowner tant in the West,” said Dr. Program Field Day on the James Earl Kennamer, Gene Howe Wildlife

NWTF senior vice presi- Management Area so Texas Shown with optional equipment dent for conservation pro- HELPING HAND: The National Wild Turkey Federation, through a landowners could learn grams. “It’s critical to a conservation techniques U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service grant, will help landowners along THE GMC SIERRA FORD F-150 DODGE RAM TOYOTA TUNDRA multitude of wildlife the Canadian River enhance their properties. Photo by NWTF. for enhancing riparian SIERRA 1500 CREW SUPERCREW 1500 QUAD DOUBLE CAB species, some considered habitat. ADVANTAGE CAB SLT XLT CAB SLT LIMITED endangered or at-risk, that we restore and enhance the Through the Southern Great Plains Riparian habitat around these flowing waterways.” Initiative, NWTF volunteers restore wildlife habitat The grant will fund the second phase of an NWTF along flowing waterways to prevent erosion and to pro- ENGINE 5.3 L V8 4.6 L V8 4.7 L V8 4.7 L V8 Southern Great Plains Riparian Initiative project to vide food and cover for wildlife. Riparian habitat CAPACITY enhance and restore riparian habitat along the includes rivers, streams and creeks, and is very impor- Canadian River and its tributaries for lesser prairie chick- tant wildlife habitat in the southwestern states. STANDARD 295 HP 231 HP 235 HP 271 HP HORSEPOWER en, Arkansas River shiner, mountain plover, wild turkeys Landowners in the Canadian River watershed interest- and other wildlife dependent on riparian areas. ed in participating in this project should call the NWTF STANDARD 335 LB-FT 293 LB-FT 300 LB-FT 313 LB-FT Through the grant, landowners will only have to cover a at (800) THE-NWTF. TORQUE percentage of the costs to fence waterways, eliminate invasive plant species and plant native vegetation. —A National Wild Turkey Federation report MAXIMUM 1716 LBS 1430 LBS 1420 LBS 1580 LBS PAYLOAD†

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GROSS VEHICLE 7000 LBS 6900 LBS 6700 LBS 6600 LBS New Mexico the Panhandle have seen large the largest black bear ever taken WEIGHT RATING††† Hunter pays $95,000 in increases in populations over the legally by a hunter in Pennsylvania. auction for elk license past five years. It also preliminarily ties with a bear taken in California as the largest ever AUTOMATIC NOT NOT NOT A license to hunt trophy elk in The 2006 statewide spring archery taken legally by a hunter in the REAR LOCKING AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE New Mexico sold for a record season will be March 25 - May 21. world. DIFFERENTIAL $95,000 at the Rocky Mountain Elk The statewide shotgun season will The Seman bear’s score must be Foundation’s annual “Elk Camp” be April 15 — May 21. A hunter can NOT NOT NOT have two turkey permits of any type corroborated by a panel of Boone & ® Feb. 25 in Reno, Nev. ONSTAR * AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE for the spring season and take one Crockett Club judges during the A Boise, Idaho, hunter was the bearded turkey on each permit. organization’s next Awards Program winning bidder for the bull elk in 2007. XM NOT NOT NOT license, one of two sold by the state The previous state record was a SATELLITE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE Oklahoma RADIO® each year, with the proceeds going black bear that scored 22 14/16 inch- ** to elk research and management in Smallmouth bass es and weighed 739 pounds. It was NOT NOT NOT New Mexico. The second license will ® record broken again taken, in 2003, by Brian Coxe, BOSE LUXURY STANDARD AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE be first prize in a summer raffle. Both For the third time in four years, an Weatherly, in Carbon County’s AUDIO SYSTEM licenses are authorized for hunting Oklahoma angler has broken the Weatherly Borough. with any legal weapon in most areas state record for smallmouth bass. of the state from Sept. 1 through Steve McLarty now holds the Wisconsin ® Dec. 31. record with an 8-pound, 3-ounce WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE. This year’s auction license smallmouth bass he caught on Anglers catch nearly 419,000 brought the highest price since state March 4 on Lake Eufaula in east cen- Lake Michigan salmon in ’05 law authorized issuance of the tral Oklahoma. McLarty, who lives Chinook fishing in Wisconsin SEE THE PROS AT YOUR LOCAL GMC DEALER licenses in 2000. The bid surpassed in Broken Arrow, was competing in a waters of Lake Michigan got even last year’s record of $79,000. The Fishers of Men bass tournament hotter in 2005: Anglers reeled in the drawing for the elk raffle license will when he hooked the big fish in a highest recorded harvest of chinook be June 20. Raffle tickets are $20 quiet, rocky cove. and caught them faster than ever each. For tickets or more informa- “We actually pulled into the area before, according to recently ana- tion, contact Allen Kerby at (505) on the way to another spot first lyzed angler surveys. †Maximum payload capacity includes weight of vehicle, passengers, cargo 454-9390 or [email protected]. thing in the morning. I was using a Anglers caught an estimated and equipment. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution. jerk bait and was hoping to catch a 418,918 chinook in 2005, the most ††Trailer ratings are calculated assuming a properly equipped base vehicle Nebraska good smallmouth, but I certainly since angler, or “creel,” surveys start- plus driver. See the GMC Trailering Guide for details. ed in 1969. That’s 33 percent more Turkey hunting did not expect to catch one this big,” †††When properly equipped, includes weight of vehicle, passengers, McLarty said. than the five-year average. The sur- expectations run high cargo and equipment. veys are conducted from mid-March *OnStar and the OnStar emblem are registered trademarks of OnStar During the 2006 spring turkey Pennsylvania through October. Corporation. Call 1-888-4ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827) or visit onstar.com archery and shotgun turkey hunting “In the nearly 40 years we have New state record black for system limitations and details. ©2006 OnStar Corp. All rights reserved. seasons, hunters should have the been stocking salmon and conduct- **Available in the 48 contiguous states. Basic service fees apply. best opportunity ever to take a bear could tie world record ing creel surveys, 2005’s total was Visit gm.xmradio.com for details. turkey in Nebraska, according to Andrew Seman Jr. of Dunbar took the highest of all time,” says Matt ©2006 XM Satellite Radio Inc. All rights reserved. The XM name and Nebraska Game and Parks a 733-pound male in Dunbar Coffaro, Department of Natural related logos are registered trademarks of XM Satellite Radio Inc. Commissions. Township, Fayette County, Nov. 22. Resources fish expert for southeast- ©2006 Bose Corp. All rights reserved. 2005 had a record number of It was the largest bear taken during ern Wisconsin. “A person would be ©2006 General Motors Corp. All rights reserved. Sierra, GMC and turkeys, and hunters should see the 2005 bear seasons. hard-pressed to find better salmon GMC logo are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. good numbers of turkeys again this Its skull measured 23 and 3/16 fishing anywhere in North spring. All areas of the state except inches, which officially places it as America.” Page 6 March 24, 2006 HUNTING Waterfowl zero in on ‘tricks’ ‘Hunters have to be smarter’

By Mark England

Are waterfowl getting smarter or are hunters getting dumber? Read any hunter forum and you’re likely to find that question asked. Waterfowl experts, though, say it’s just a case of nature in action or evolution: birds adapting to intense hunting pressure. But John Devney, senior vice president of Delta Waterfowl, said it’s easy to see how hunters could think otherwise. He recalled his first time hunting snow geese in 1990. “I was hunting with a college friend in North Dakota,” he said. “We were using decoys no more sophisticated than white plastic bags and coat hangers. I came to the conclusion that these were God’s dumbest creatures. Today, in contrast, birds are very suspicious of decoy spreads, even ones using the latest equipment. The more aggressive guys I hunt with will put on their Reeboks, grab a shell bag and run to where the birds fled, hoping to get in some shooting.” Among waterfowl, Snow geese seem to have adapted best to hunting, according to many experts. “I’ve seen more banded snow geese that were over 10 years of age than any other waterfowl,” said Ducks Unlimited’s Chad Manlove, manager of conservation planning for the southern region. “They get an education flying up and down the flyway.” AIR INTELLIGENCE: Some experts say waterfowl are becoming “hunt-smart.” Canada geese drop rapidly into a city lake in Lubbock after flying from peanut fields With the advent of the spring snow goose where they feed and are hunted. Thousands of Canadas roost on the ponds every winter and are even fed bread by children and moms visiting the lakes. Photo hunting season, the species is almost constant- by David J. Sams. ly being hunted. hunt-smart.” You can’t call them like you would a Canada pomorphic or pointless. “When I hunted in 1990, we were the only The nature of snow geese helps in their bat- goose. You can’t just pick up a mouth call and As Devney says, “Few game animals are real- spread I saw for hundreds of square miles,” tle to survive, Manlove said. They fly in flocks start honking on it. They don’t respond well to ly stupid.” Devney said. “Today, with the breadth of the that can number into the hundreds. calls. They’re very vocal birds. Half the time, I “Geese don’t come out of the egg looking to flyway, birds are getting hunted hard. There’s a “There are a lot of eyes looking down at you, don’t think they hear you.” go into gumbo,” he said. “They kinda want to lot of new interest, expanded seasons and high picking out things that don’t look natural,” Most hunting experts are reluctant to call bag limits. I think they probably are getting Manlove said. “They’re very hard to call, too. snow geese smart, considering it either anthro- See WATERFOWL, Page 7 Rigs offer Camps give youths hunters outdoors education customized By Mary Helen Aguirre In the summer of 2002, David Harrison of Midland attended the Bobwhite Brigade’s 4 1/2-day camp in RIGGED UP: Cline Line is one of several companies across Krooked River Ranch, north of Abilene. outings Texas accessorizing vehicles into hunting rigs. Photo by Cline Line. There, he learned about land management and conservation, gained knowledge about the bobwhite quail, ‘We build all kinds of odd stuff’ and explored topics such as journaling and photography. The 17-year-old says the favorite part “To accessorize a vehicle for hunting, you can By Bill Miller of his camping experience were the dif- spend as little as $1,000 to as much as $6,000. An ferent speakers, most of whom were average ATV all rigged up will probably cost $12- experts in their fields. Hunting rigs in Texas can be as elaborate as 15,000 and that’s for everything.’’ “If you’re interested in wildlife, it hulking truck with built-in margarita machines Or you can build your own. gives you connections and different or simple as a customized all-terrain vehicle. “If a guy knows how to weld, and has access to BUCKSKIN CLASS: Youths get an up-close opportunities,” says Harrison, who look at antlers in their deer studies. Photo And while the Texas hunting rig may be big materials, he can do all right,’’ said Robert trains bird dogs. by Texas Brigades. and bad, the price doesn’t have to be. There are Steenbeke of 1A Hunting in Texas Guide Service The teen says he so enjoyed the expe- companies around Texas that will build a custom- in Schertz. according to Helen Holdsworth, exec- rience that he went back to the camp hunting rig mounted on a pickup, a trailer or an Steenbeke has built two metal rigs for his south utive director of the Texas Brigades, later as a “special agent” to help out all-terrain vehicle. Texas guide service. Both slide into the bed of a which is a program supported by the with such tasks as setting up for differ- It’s a competitive market, said Cline Strickland pickup truck and lash in place with S hooks. He Texas Cooperative Extension, Texas ent events. of Weatherford, whose company Cline Line said they’re designed to also slide out easily to Wildlife Association, Texas Parks and Harrison is one of more than 1,000 accessorizes any vehicle into a hunting rig. serve as instant deer blinds. Wildlife and several other non-profit teens who have attended a Texas “There are some people out there making some His advice for the do-it-yourselfer: use alu- organizations and foundations. Brigades (www.texasbrigades.org) neat products,” he said. “Eight years ago, there minum, not steel. It’s lighter, which makes the rig Outdoor camps like the Brigades summer camp, which offers youths were two companies building them and now easier to load and unload. offer youths a way to explore their ages 13-17 the chance to learn about there’s about 20.’’ Steenbeke’s rigs also have adjustable seats and interest in hunting, fishing and out- habitat management, communica- Strickland’s five-member team will outfit the mounted lights for nighttime hog and varmint door sports and activities. Many offer tion skills and land management at vehicle you bring in, or he’ll sell you an ATV with hunting. The most important features, he added, limited numbers of partial or full various sites in Texas. Campers can bells, whistles and cup holders. He recalled how are the lash points for securing guns. scholarships. choose between the Buckskin See CAMPS, Page 7 his crew once built a rig with a remote-controlled “It’s nothing fancy,’’ he said of his rig design. Brigades, the Bobwhite Brigade, the device that released a hunting dog from its leash. “My stuff … I don’t go for show. I go for use.’’ Feathered Forces and the Bass Brigade, Mary Helen Aguirre is a native Texan “We build all kinds of odd stuff,’’ Strickland But, he added, “we do have some cup holders depending on their particular inter- with almost 15 years of experience said. “We’ve rigged out vehicles with generators in there, yeah.’’ ests. editing and writing for newspapers, and margarita machines, others with hot plates The cost is $300 for a 4 1/2-day resi- including the Atlanta Journal- to cook on. It’s all just a function of money.” Bill Miller is a Fort Worth-based free-lancer. dent camp. Scholarships are available, Constitution. March 24, 2006 Page 7 OUTDOORS YOUTH CAMPS

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hover at 85 yards better than a snow snow goose hunt. Put out a combi- advice. tacted by LSON aren’t ready to goose and figure out that something nation of rags, silhouettes and “I think snow geese are getting endorse that theory. Waterfowl was wrong,” he said. “They’re noto- shells, he said. conditioned to seeing 500 to 1,000 However, they acknowledge that Continued from Page 6 rious for picking up decoy spreads.” “It adds variance,” he said. decoys,” he said. “Go with full bod- all waterfowl are intelligent enough Hunters deserve much of the “Maybe you can get the geese in 10 ies, maybe a dozen. Use things like to know the good life when they make it back to the Arctic. Behavior credit for the savvy exhibited by yards closer.” flags to impart some motion. Then find it. changes once an animal is hunted. snow geese, said Dave Morrison, Sometimes, though, less is more, concealment becomes paramount. “I was at a shot show in Las We’ve all seen it. I don’t think it’s waterfowl program leader for Texas Morrison said. It’s harder to hide among a spread Vegas,” Devney said. “There was a that snow geese are inherently Parks and Wildlife. “Hunters have gotten so sophisti- of a dozen decoys than a thou- mallard in the waterfall at The smarter, but they’re exposed to gun- “Hunters have to be smarter,” cated, they’ve forgotten some of the sand.” Mirage. You could have walked with- ning more than most game. Morrison said. “If you shoot at a run-of-the-mill stuff did work,” he There’s an emerging theory that in a foot and a half of him. Whereas Consequently, they’ve learned our goose at 80 yards, you’re wising up a said. “Toward the end of the season, some flocks of snow geese are if you slammed a car door in North tricks.” lot of birds.” a bunch of decoys may not be the becoming “refuge-smart,” meaning Dakota, a flock of them would bust Still, Devney marvels at the sur- Manlove believes a variety of best thing. One or two might be they fly from one national refuge to out at a quarter mile. Birds learn vival skills of snow geese. decoys put out in large numbers is better.” another — leaving hunters on the where they’re being hunted, and “I’ve never seen a bird that could the best guarantee of a successful Devney seconded Morrison’s outside looking in. The experts con- where they’re not.”

www.badboybuggiesoftexas.com CALL FOR A DEALER NEAR YOU — 817-723-1463 CALLCALL FOR FOR A ADEALER DEALER NEARNEAR YOU YOU — — 817-723-1463 817-723-1463 Page 8 March 24, 2006 FISHING LAKE MEREDITH Walleye biting early this year

EARLY RUN: Walleye are astir a little earlier than normal this season at Lake Meredith. By Wes Smalling 15 feet or less in the spring. “Later in the season it’s primarily Warm winter has ‘real picky fish’ running jigging,” he said. Call it an early spring or a nonexist- Because of drought, the lake is very ent winter. Either way, Lake at one of Texas’ coolest lakes low at only 59 feet, which doesn’t Meredith’s walleye are biting earlier bode well for the fishing this summer than usual this year. they’ve been catching smaller males The lake’s northern location and The fishing may be good now, but it because at such a low level the typical- Lake Meredith is a national recre- in the shallows, which is a telltale sign elevation of 3,500 feet make it the best should get even better after the spawn ly cool lake may get too warm. ation area on the Canadian River in the spring spawn is a few weeks early, walleye habitat in the state because is over in April, said Charles Munger, “It’s at 6,000 acres right now. It was the Texas Panhandle about 45 miles said Dustin Lillard of the Lake the water stays cooler during the hot district biologist for Texas Parks and 12,000 acres in 2004 so it’s half the northeast of Amarillo. Meredith Marina. months of summer. Wildlife. size,” Munger said. “Right now we’re In late February, anglers were catch- “We never had our winter so that’s The state record walleye — an 11.88- Munger recommends slow-drifting only about a foot above our record low ing big females up to 9 pounds on blue why the walleye are starting to run pounder — came out of Lake a night crawler or minnow, and said of last year. It does help the fishing for pearl grubs. And in recent weeks, early,” Lillard said. Meredith. the fish are usually found at depths of See WALLEYE, Page 11 Anglers battle Hand-held scales weather at option for tournament Windy conditions and muddy water were a fac- record seekers tor in the Redfish Nation Series event in Rockport March 11-12. By Aaron Reed commercial calibration com- If the tides and rough water weren’t enough, pany and witnessed by a disin- the field of 62 had to face a Day 1 leaderboard that terested party — made looked much like the finals of the 2005 Oh Boy! It was Bud Rowland’s mon- Rowland’s trout eligible for a Oberto Redfish Cup Championship with familiar ster trout that did it. In May state record. names like Friermood and Franklin, Barton and 2002 the Port Isabel fly-fisher- Under the new rule, scales Barton, Loring and Trimble, and Young and man landed a 37-inch spotted can even be certified up to 30 Catchings. seatrout that weighed better days after a fish is caught. On a day that saw arguably the hottest team in than 15 pounds on his hand- According to IGFA redfishing, Blaien Friermood and Jim Franklin, held scale. The trout was rec- Conservation Director Jason not catch a single fish, Fred Lynch of Corpus ognized as the largest ever Schratwieser, the world Christi and Jeff Clarkson of Austin weighed in the taken on a fly rod and certified records organization certifies largest catch of the tournament at 13.93 pounds as a world record by the as many as a dozen hand-held to finish with 25.75 pounds and a .08 pound win International Game Fish scales each week. over the second-place team Ralph Frazier and Jim Association. Schratwieser said most of Hampton. Because Rowland released the scales the organization cer- The rest of Day 1’s leaders faced a similar fate as the fish without having it tifies are spring scales. Friermood/Franklin with the exception of Jack weighed on state-certified Chatillon, Manley and and Charlie Barton. The 2005 Team of the Year scales, it initially was thought BogaGrip are three brands that runners-up, spun off three props within the first to be ineligible for a state routinely test well. Prices four hours of Day 2, but managed to hold onto record. Taking the fish to a cer- range from about $40 for a the fourth one and weighed in at 9.63 pounds to tified weigh station, assuming brass Manley scale to around finish in tenth place. one could be found in the area, $120 for a fish-holding Jon Loring and James Trimble were not as lucky. would have killed it, some- BogaGrip. After being tied for the lead on Day 1 with 13.77 thing Rowland was loath to “Those are tried-and-true, pounds, the 2005 Oh Boy! Oberto Redfish Cup do. rock-solid. There are other Championship runners-up caught two fish but “That really made us look at brands, too, but those are real- ran aground and required an airboat to return to the scale certification issue,” ly the top three,” Schratwieser the venue. said Joedy Gray, director of the said. “It’s all about the spring. For their win, Lynch and Clarkson earned a Texas Parks and Wildlife If they’re built around a high- check for $15,000 and one of the coveted spots in Department’s angler recogni- quality spring, then they’re the Redfish Nation Series Championship which tion program. going to be accurate repeated- could earn them spot in the 2006 Oh Boy! Oberto A change in the program’s ly.” Redfish Cup Championship. TIPPING THE SCALES: An angler weighs a trout on a BogaGrip. IGFA, the world records organization, certifies as many as a dozen hand-held rules — accepting weights on The cost to have personal scales certified by the IGFA or a See SCALES, Page 11 —A Redfish Nation report scales each week. March 24, 2006 Page 9 New strategies roll in with spring tides High waters provide fish new feeding areas

By Danno Wise tide. With those really high tides, That, of course, gets everything the fish tend to leave their normal more active. hiding spots on the flats and head “The other thing that happens After a winter of watching to the newly flooded areas that is the water gets up higher over dwindling water levels expose they usually can’t get into.” structure and pushes into the bars and reefs throughout Texas “When we get high water, we back lakes, which gives the fish a bays, Lone Star State coastal head to the back of the coves,” lot of new territory,” Smythe con- anglers are about to face a prob- agreed Galveston Bay complex tinued. “You won’t change what lem of a different sort. guide Capt. Michael LaRue. you’re doing all that much, but As spring tides begin rushing “During normal tides, most of the you’ll have an opportunity to do through Gulf passes, bays up and fish will be in the middle of the more in other areas. For instance, down the Texas coast will be filled coves or in the feeder channels a reef which usually is dry or has with more water than they can leading into the coves. However, only a few inches of water over it hold — literally. Although anglers when the water pushes back into may have 8 or so inches over it may feel more secure with the the coves, those fish can go into when the spring tides move in. So, higher water levels, excessive tides areas they usually can’t go.” then you can throw topwaters tend to scatter fish, leaving fisher- Rockport-based guide Capt. over the top of the reef.” men frustrated. Brad Smythe agrees with Ellis and When it comes to eliminating But if anglers are willing to LaRue, adding that, although the water as a factor, Ellis said to use TIDE’S UP: Wading anglers often adopt new strategies when waters rise. change their strategy a bit, then actual baits and techniques won’t your eyes. spring tides can be fruitful. necessarily change, more oppor- “You spend a lot more time there is anything that will attract the shorelines, they going to take “Once those big spring tides tunities will open up with the looking when you get big water in bait, it will attract the predator advantage of the new feeding start coming, you definitely have spring high tides. the bay,” Ellis said. “But, you need fish, too.” opportunities — that’s where you to fish with the flow,” said Port “A lot happens when those to look at something that will “It’s really pretty simple,” want to fish.” Isabel guide Capt. Steve “JR” Ellis. spring high tides come in,” said attract and concentrate fish. Smythe surmised. “These tides Danno Wise is an outdoor writer, “By that I mean fish near the pass- Smythe. “First of all, it brings that When the water gets up into the open up a lot of new territory for artist and fishing guide who lives in es on an outgoing tide and way warmer Gulf water into the bays grass and mangroves, fish will these fish to feed in. Whether it’s Port Isabel with his wife and two back in the bay on an incoming and starts the warming trend. push right up in there with it. If up on top of reefs or up tighter to children. Hackney takes Rayburn Bassmaster Elite Series

Everybody knew that if 13 total. Nobody else was remotely its own, as well as those originally Hackney, who isn’t highly emo- had a tremendous, tremendous day Louisiana’s Greg Hackney caught close. scheduled for nearby Toledo Bend tional to begin with, was rather to beat me,” he said. “And Dean had another 20-pound sack March 19, Kevin VanDam of Michigan that had been forced to move due subdued in the wake of the victory. a great day — he did all he could. he’d be just about impossible to caught 15-03 and finished 3rd with to that lake’s dearth of water. It was almost as if it was preor- But I had a great day, too.” beat. He did it with 8 ounces to 68-01. Ohio rookie Bill Lowen was The Hack Attack showed them, dained, and there was nothing he He’s finished fourth and first in spare, and the Rayburn Bassmaster 4th with 16-02 and a 64-13 total. though. He’s established himself as could do to screw it up. the first two events of the season, Elite Series became the second tour- If you’d told the 105 anglers in the one of the top anglers in the world “I fished pretty good and I moved but said it’s far too early to concern level victory for an angler who’s original field last week that the win- over the past two-plus seasons and pretty good,” he said. “Today was himself about the Angler of the Year already among the finest in the ning weight here would be just shy is No. 2 in the BassFan World much tougher than the other days chase. He won that honor on the sport, but still seems to get better all of 80 pounds, many would have Rankings. He had a lengthy stint in and I had to kind of grind it out. FLW Tour last year, but he’s a the time. laughed out loud and some would the No. 1 slot, and dropped because But I stayed with my guns and kept Bassmaster-only pro in 2006. His 20-pound, 8-ounce bag was have assumed you were on drugs. of a revision of the mathematical thinking it would happen, and (the “I’m not going to say it never the best in the field on a drizzly Day No way Sam Rayburn Reservoir formula that brought VanDam’s bites) finally came.” crosses my mind, but my goals right 4 and gave him a four-day total of could pump that out right now — two Bassmaster Elite 50 wins last He said this victory was different now are to make every tournament 79-10, which was nearly 4 pounds for anybody. summer into the mix. than his first tour win (last year’s a good tournament and get back in more than his closest pursuer and A high percentage of the fish And when a stick of that caliber Table Rock Bassmaster) because he the (Bassmaster) Classic. I’ll start more than 11 pounds better than were spawned out and hidden fishes as well as he can — maybe as didn’t know that one would be his worrying about the AOY probably at everyone else. Texan Dean Rojas did away, and the weather pattern was well as he ever has — then every- until the final numbers registered about the Potomac (in August). everything right all week and unstable. But, mostly, Rayburn was body else is casting around for sec- on the scales. “It’s a long year and there’s a lot of caught an impressive 19-08 today, worn out from a long list of tourna- ond place. And that even includes “I knew I had a big bag today, and tournaments to go.” but still came up 3-13 shy with a 75- ments that had passed through — the great VanDam. I knew Dean would have to have — A BassFan.com report Texan wins first place on FLW Tournament Trail

Texan Scott David of Goodrich come through for him. caught a two-day total of 10 bass Ultimately, he searched for scat- weighing 35 pounds, 8 ounces, to tered fish to finally gather his win $75,000 in cash and prizes at limit. David threw Zoom Speed the Wal-Mart Texas Tournament Craws and jigs to get his bites. Trail presented by Abu Garcia on Rounding out the top five pros Sam Rayburn Reservoir. were Michael Herron of Paris (10 The March 11-12 event attract- bass, 35 pounds, 4 ounces, $8,000 ed a field of 200 pros and 200 co- plus $6,000 bonus); Nicholas anglers and featured a $220,500 Albus of Trinity (10 bass, 33 purse. pounds, 2 ounces, $6,000 plus David’s winnings included a $4,000 bonus); John Guice of Ranger 519VX powered by a 200- Trophy Club (10 bass, 32 pounds, horsepower Evinrude outboard, 11 ounces, $4,300); and David Minn Kota trolling motor, Mullins of Coppell (10 bass, 31 Lowrance electronics and pounds, 13 ounces, $3,200 plus EverStart batteries plus $10,000 as $2,500). well as an additional $20,000 for Carl Fox of Belton won the Co- being a registered Ranger boat angler Division title with 10 bass owner and meeting contingency weighing 32 pounds, 1 ounce. He guidelines. earned $44,000, which included a With windy conditions and fully rigged Ranger 519VX and partly cloudy skies, David had to $4,000. Fox was throwing a water- fish several areas to fill his daily melon red weightless Wave Stick limit. He was sight-fishing Worm in 3 to 5 feet of water to throughout the tournament, and catch his bass. most of his bites on day one came The next TTT event will be held from a pocket with stained water. April 1-2 on Cedar Creek “I stayed in stained water the Reservoir near Gun Barrel City. first day because there was less The top 50 pros and co-anglers pressure in there,” David said. based on year-end points stand- Using a pair of polarized glasses, ings will advance to the $210,000 David was able to pick out bed- Wal-Mart Texas Tournament Trail ding female bass as well as one Championship Nov. 11-12 on male bass guarding fry to put Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir near together a nice limit. Killeen. The winning pro at the Come day two, David had to championship can earn as much search a little more to get his bites. as $75,000 in cash and prizes, He went to the Ash Bayou area to including a Ranger boat. try and catch some bass he’d located in practice, but it didn’t — A FLW Outdoors report Page 10 March 24, 2006

And if we don't get some rain, it won't The best places to look for Rio ed to bulge. progress very much. We're facing a Grandes is in the Rolling Plains and Record “Let’s just let it go,” Weakley recalled Turkeys very poor nesting season." the Edwards Plateau areas, DeMaso saying. “What’s the purpose of even Continued from Page 1 stressing it out more when it clearly Continued from Page 1 The countryside may look green, said. There are populations scattered but it's something of an illusion, in South Texas. However, the num- its gill. He didn’t take measurements of shattered the record? Now everybody’s like, ‘Why didn’t you take the measure- upland habitat. Simons said. There's not enough bers aren't as high, and you'll need the fish — and ultimately released it. ments?’” While adult numbers for the greenery to eat, nor enough lush access to the big ranches in that part The good news for Weakley is that Dickerson added they weren’t sure turkeys are excellent, poor rainfall foliage for nesting. of the state. he’s a credible angler, as is Jed could alter their behavior — and not Also, more importantly, the lack of Hunters should remember that the Dickerson, his longtime fishing pal the fish would count anyway given the in the hunter's favor. rainfall shrinks the insect population. turkeys are usually found near water, who was with him. Both Weakley and way it was hooked, so they didn’t want "The adult numbers are as good as "That's not only important for DeMaso said. Dickerson are already officially recog- to risk hurting her. I've ever seen," said biologist and turkeys, it's essential for turkey chicks," "Most of the roost trees are associat- nized for boating bass within the top- “It’s neck looked like it was going to guide Greg Simons. "But I don't look Simons said. "It basically compromises ed with creeks and draws," he said. 15 bass of all-time at Dixon Lake, break,” said Dickerson, adding he’s for it to be a season where a guy goes turkeys' reproductive success." "They're always going to back to the according to ESPNOutdoors.com. glad his friend finally caught the bass out and every time he finds a vocal DeMaso sees the outcome of the trees to roost at night. If you can find Another fishing partner, Mike Winn, a they’ve been after for so long. bird, he's able to call it in. It's almost hunting season as still undecided, a good roosting area, they're going to dockworker, and two others witnessed Weakley and Dickerson, who have as if they go into a feeding and sur- "depending on whether we get rain." be within four or five miles of it." the catch, according to Weakley. The been fishing Dixon since they were 7 vival mode as opposed to a reproduc- But if it stays dry, DeMaso agrees Texas allows hunters to put out catch was also video taped and pho- years old, believe the record fish is the tive mode. They're not as fired up." that turkeys may be harder to hunt. feed for turkeys, but that practice is tographed at the weigh-in. same one that Dickerson caught three "Usually when it gets sunny and "It's a tradeoff," DeMaso said. "Are shunned by purists, Simons said. “I want to be upfront and honest years ago when it weighed 21 pounds, warmer, it gets the gobblers gobbling turkeys going to put their energy into Still, purists will have to depend on with everyone. Everyone has been 11 ounces. They said the fish has a dis- and displaying a little earlier," said reproduction or surviving? Hens prob- more than their calling skills. waiting on this,” Weakley said. tinguishing black spot under its right Steve DeMaso, turkey and quail pro- ably won't put the energy into produc- "Even if you can make a call that Jason Schratwieser, conservation gill plate. gram leader for Texas Parks and ing eggs; they'll put it into surviving. would make a turkey proud, calling is director for IGFA, said his phone has Weakley and his friends had seen Wildlife. "But I'm just not sure how You'll probably see the same thing only going to get you so far," Simons been “ringing off the hook” with ques- the monster bass on Sunday, along the dry weather is going to affect with gobblers, although it takes more said. "Hunting strategy — knowing tions about the validity of the catch. with another angler who fished for her them." energy to produce eggs than it does to how to set up on birds and when to The catch must go through a formal all that day before giving up his spot. Simons thinks he knows. And it's produce sperm." move — is probably more important review process, but he said foul-hook- That’s when the trio got a camping per- not good. Despite everything, hunters can than making a tune that sounds pret- ing a fish doesn’t necessarily disqualify mit and made plans to be the first peo- "When it greens up prematurely, still find plenty of action, Simons said. ty to the ear. However, most of the it. ple to get a fishing permit the next sometimes the birds will start a little "There's going to be lots of chances guys I consider purists are on the cut- “The rules explicitly state that a morning. Lake rules allow campers earlier, cycle a little faster," said to have an interface because there's ting-edge as far as their skill level. catch is disqualified if the fish was access when the area is normally Simons, who owns Wildlife Systems, going to be a lot of them out there," he They'll be in a good position to deal intentionally foul-hooked. At this closed to others. So they went home, Inc. in San Angelo. "Warm weather said. "But hunters are going to have to with those kinds of birds." point, of course, we don’t have an offi- tried to sleep and returned by 4 a.m. neutralizes that effect. I'd say we're no sift through more birds than they nor- Mark England is associate editor of Lone cial stand on that. It’s too early.” Monday to eat donuts and wait until “We do like to have the measure- further along than we normally are. mally do to find responsive birds." Star Outdoor News sunup. ment. But, again, we’ll just have to wait “We’d been waiting all night. We and see. If there are witnesses who veri- could hardly sleep,” Weakley said. fy that they saw the weight certified Laugh at the Luckily for them, they were the first and it’s well-documented, it may not be ones in line to get a fishing permit that 50 pound limit. an issue. It usually comes into play day. Some other anglers showed up at Used to be you’d take a gun when there’s not good documentation. case and a monstrous, heavy We also like to have the measurement the dock shortly after them in hopes of duffle bag when because it’s information we share with fishing for the trophy bass, Weakley flying. Not any fisheries and biologists,” Schratwieser said. more, unless you said. When they got on the water, Winn want to fork over positioned the boat in the big female’s hefty overweight Schratwieser said he has not seen a formal application from Weakley yet. territory. Dickerson saw the male bass charges. The on the bottom. Weakley said he saw a solution? Put your No matter what happens, Weakley is boots, sleeping a happy man — even if there’s no title shadow about 12 feet down and fig- bag, jacket, to go with the catch or big-money ured it was the massive female. ammo, and your or rifle (or bow, most versatile The world’s shotgun, or boot, sleeping bag, or…) case. deals. Dickerson and Weakley began casting soft case (plus Weakley said he got about 200 and Dickerson got a couple of strikes your rifle) in the phone calls Monday from friends, rela- from the male. Weakley said he saw incredibly roomy tives and the media — including offers the female roll over and felt a thud. His Tuffpak case. line started to run, and that’s when Protect your gear. to buy his photos of the fish, which he And your wallet. declined. Weakley knew he had the mother fish. “It’s not about the money. I don’t “It was like a dinosaur,” Weakley care if I don’t get a penny,” he said. said, recalling his awe. At that www.hunters-hq.com “This is actually fun.” moment, Dickerson must have real- Weakley said he released the fish ized history was in the making. without all the measurements because That’s when Weakley heard his he was afraid it might get hurt, and he friend call out to the people on the felt they had enough documentation. dock: “If you boys want to see a world Hunters Headquarters As they weighed it, the fish’s eyes start- record, here it is!” 1725 Woodhill Lane Bedford, TX 76021 817.267.3700 [email protected] Come experience the finest coastal hospitality in our well-appointed lodge — perfect for family reunions, meetings, corporate retreats or simply a gathering with good friends, with plans to fit every taste, from full-service to self-service.

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nesses are hesitant to certify hand- commercially certified, legal-for- fied — I’ll probably do it for free.” IGFA record. Scales held scales, which may not meet trade scale likely would be out of Baldwin and other commercial “We’ll accept certification from stringent “legal for trade” criteria. reach for the average, recreational scale companies are more than anybody who is an accredited Continued from Page 8 “I had a guy come in the other day, angler. happy to rent scales for fishing organization or uses certified and his scale weighed pretty good,” “If it’s a group or club, we try to tournaments or ongoing events. scales certified is an annual mem- weights,” said Schratwieser. “If said Brian Baldwin of Baldwin Scale help them out as much as possible. The minimum cost is usually about bership in the organization ($35) there’s a weigh station that uses Company in Corpus Christi. “At 15 If they have a good scale that’s cer- $50, Baldwin said. and $30 for each scale certified. certified scales, absolutely that’s pounds, the thing weighed great. But tifiable, usually our minimum While IGFA or commercial certi- Schratwieser said he usually returns good for an IGFA record as well.” scales to members the same week he after that, it didn’t weigh so good. charge is $75. If it just takes half an fication can guarantee that lunker For more information, visit gets them. That’s what I wrote on his paper: hour, we’ll do half that,” said bass or bull red gets the recognition Another option for anglers is to ‘Good to 15 pounds.’ I didn’t charge Baldwin. “If it’s a kid’s group – it deserves from the state (and lives http://www.igfa.org. have a scale certified by a commer- him anything for it.” unless they have to have a whole to fight another day), commercial- Aaron Reed, kayakrockport@yahoo. com, cial scale company. Many such busi- Baldwin acknowledged that a lot of paperwork showing it’s certi- ly certified scales also can land an is a free-lance writer based in Austin. Walleye Continued from Page 8 a while — it concentrates the fish — but in the long run it’s not good.” The National Park Service, which manages the recreation area, is extending the lake’s two boat ramps this spring because of the low water. Jimmy Muncy, chief of maintenance for Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, said he expects both the Sanford Yake and Fritch Fortress boat ramps to remain open during construction. “There’s still plenty of water out here,” said Lillard of the Lake Meredith Marina. “My best advice (for boaters) is to treat it like a new lake, even if you’ve been here before and know your way around. You’ve got to watch for those rocks and trees.” Lately, a slow retrieve has worked best for anglers, he said. “Throw it out there, count to three, that gets it below the shad where the walleye are hanging out, and reel it in real slow. A slow retrieve is key. Once the water temperature goes up another six degrees or so that’ll probably change. They’ll get more aggressive.” The fishing is best early in the morning or after dark until midnight when walleye are the most active, he said. But even under the best fishing conditions, walleye can be fussy. “You’ve got to use 10-pound line or less because if they can see it they won’t bite,” Lillard said. “Real picky fish.” Lake Meredith has a five-fish bag limit on walleye and no more than two fish under 16 inches may be kept. The lake also has good fishing for crappie, channel catfish, yellow perch, white bass and smallmouth bass.

Wes Smalling is the former outdoors editor for the Santa Fe New Mexican and has more than a COOL WATERS: Lake Meredith’s northern location and elevation of 3,500 feet make it the best walleye habitat in the state because the water stays cool in decade of experience as a writer and reporter. the summer. Photo by David J. Sams.

nament, so the next day he bought around. It appeared serious when he Velvick has been a West Coast guy “The town is small but everyone’s three acres before heading east to pointed to a woman in the crowd all his life and is accustomed to the nice and it has a great vibe to it. It’s Sam Rayburn Reservoir for another and then met with her briefly after bright lights and bustle of Las Vegas, easy to get around. The fishing is Pros tournament. leaving the stage. but knew he’d be moving to Del Rio great and the hunting is great. Other big-name anglers looking Amistad’s great fishing is known after a practice round of fishing at “I’m looking for a ranch that I can Continued from Page 1 for property include: Gerald Swindle throughout Texas and the Amistad. high-fence and grow deer, which is real estate license to practice in the of Alabama, Davy Hite of South Southwest. It was showcased to the “I fell in love with the place,” he something I love to do. This area is city. Carolina, Takahiro Omori and Stan rest of the nation this spring during said. “It’s a beautiful lake and it does- just a unique, special place. I really After their visit for the Citgo Gerzenyi of Texas, and Mark three high-profile tournaments on n’t have a lot of pressure. It’s better like it a lot. Hunting in winter and Bassmaster Elite Series tournament Menendez of Kentucky. Menendez the FLW Outdoors Stren Series and than Mexico.” fishing in summer ... what more this month, several pros purchased actually used his brief time on the Bassmaster Elite Series circuits. The combination of good weather could you ask for?” land near the lake or are looking for weigh-in stage on afternoon to solic- Winners in those four-day events and one of the best bass lakes in the For more information on Amistad land so they, too, can enjoy out- it some help. caught more than 100 pounds. A country was too much to ignore for real estate, contact Delgado at (813) standing fishing. “If anyone here is a real estate third tournament, the Texas Bass other pros, too. 503-5500. Skeet Reese of California fished agent, I’d like to talk with you right Federation championship, saw the “It’s just incredible out here,” said two days and failed to make the 50- now,” he said, leaving the crowd to winner catch more than 85 pounds Swindle, who came last autumn for a Alan Clemons is the outdoors writer for man cut during the Elite Series tour- wonder if he was serious or joking in three days. few days of practice on Amistad. the Huntsville Times. Rekindle Your Sense of Wonder Fly Fish the River Region Texas schools hit the bull’s-eye More than 120 student archers tion’s web site. Experience the natural world of Bud Priddy Memorial from 13 public, private and char- The tournament kicked-off a the Texas Hill Country River Region ter schools descended on Temple national program formally adopt- One Fly Contest Feb. 24 for the first annual Texas ed in Texas Feb. 1. Groundwork this spring. Discover why we’re one of Archery in Schools Program tour- for the TASP was laid in the best fly fishing destinations in Texas! Nueces River nament. September 2004 when the first 17 Enjoy the crystal waters of May19-21 Students from Holloway trainers and six educators were Middle School, Grandview ISD, trained. To date, 222 Texas educa- the Nueces, Leona, Dry Frio, Wimberly Junior High and tors have been trained. Frio, and Sabinal Rivers. Crockett High School took top Additional free training classes honors. for educators are slated for venues Relax at a river cabin, rustic The Texas Field Archery around the state beginning in retreat, guest home, motel, Association sponsored the tour- April. For more information visit: nament, and complete results www.nasparchery.com/activea.as or B&B. may be found on that organiza- p or www.texasfieldarchery.org.

Photos by David J. Sams Visit our website today at www.thcrr.com or call (800) 210-0380 Page 12 March 24, 2006

HOOKED IT: Kevin VanDam sets the hook on a fish off a brushy point in the main lake near Marker 20. Amistad tourney time

WINNING WAYS: Above, Ish Monroe holds up his winning fish at the weigh-in. At left, street banner greets anglers in Del Rio. Monroe nets first BASS win At the recent Amistad Bassmaster Elite a little highway from the main channel.” Series, Ish Monroe played a new game: Texas So he was set up for a sight-fishing bite, but Barely Hold ’Em. His daily weights were so ‘The fact that I he kept one down-card — a topwater bite in huge, he needed help holding up his fish, and the same areas. BASS tournament director Trip Weldon — caught a 9-pounder With the wind a factor on day one, the guys who had to hoist the fish onto the scale — was who shined were those who caught a few big about worn out when it all came to an end. three of the four days bed-fish early, then switched over to jerkbaits, Amistad Reservoir fished hotter than any swimbaits or cranks. lake BASS has visited in recent memory — per- — that’s insane.’ Monroe came close, but missed setting a haps ever. Monroe’s 4-day, 104-pound, 8- new BASS 4-day weight record by 4-05 on ounce total was the second largest in BASS his- — ISH MONROE Amistad. Monroe went to his bed-fish, but tory (for a five-fish limit), and he won the big- also took advantage of the topwater bite with bass award 2 of the 4 days. Good thinking, because day one of compe- a Snag Proof Tournament Frog and Reaction Others caught ’em too — especially runner- tition delivered 40-mph winds and 5-foot Innovations Vixen (walking bait). His topwa- up Fred Roumbanis, who finished 2-11 rolling waves. ter bite produced the kickers on Day 1, 2 and behind Monroe. But is was Monroe’s monster He did key on certain things beyond wind- 3, but it was all bed-fishing on Day 4. 34-01 Day 3 sack that made the difference. protection, and the bedding areas he found all “The fact that I caught a 9-pounder three Here’s how he clinched his first BASS win: had a certain cover combination. “There had of the four days — that’s insane. You just “Basically, I went and looked for cubby- to be brush and grass together — they could- don’t do that on lakes. It’s something where hole areas,” he said. “I wanted stuff protected n’t have just grass, and they couldn’t have just you may go your whole life not catching a 9, from the wind. The majority of the fish I brush. and I did it 3 of 4 days — not including the found were way in the backs of pockets, where “And it had to be on a flat in the back of a ones I could have caught in practice.” the wind wouldn’t play that much of a fac- pocket, but there had to be ditches leading up tor.” to the flat, and coming through the flat — like — A BASS Communications report

ON THE GO: Boats race 70 mph to the next hot spot. Photos by David J. Sams

BOAT BUCKS: $50,000 boats aplenty were on hand at Amistad Reservoir. March 24, 2006 Page 13 PRODUCT PICKS

CHARGE IT: MobileSwipe STEADY AND NO MORE SICK DAYS: A new prescription drug by Semtek Innovative READY: The called Scopace, put out by Hope Pharmaceuticals, Solutions is a credit SnipePod by promises to end that card reader and Kramer sick feeling in the software system that Designs Corp. pit of your turns a cell phone provides a solid stomach caused into a mobile credit shooting rest for a by motion card terminal. The rifle, muzzleloader or sickness. MobileSwipe shotgun. The 5-ounce Each dose of system can be SnipePod, when stored, scopolamine used with a measures less than 7 hydrobromide compatible inches long. It uses a small mount can provide up phone and will that attaches to the gun’s “Industry to 8 hours of allow users to Standard QD stud.” Ball sockets relief. According swipe customer atop each of the bipod’s legs to the credit cards or type allow hunters to simultaneously company’s Web in card numbers on pan horizontally over 180 site, a survey of their cell phones and degrees and vertically over 90 pharmacies receive real-time, degrees while canting left/right reported the instant authorization. over 60 degrees. The ball price to be less The system allows sockets also allow for than 30 cents guides or others who independent leg functioning: per tablet. For need remote billing the Hunters can place the legs information, ability to bill clients in around rocks, roots or other such as possible the field. MobileSwipe obstacles. The SnipePod side effects or functions on the Nextel sells for about $88 to who should not network and will soon also $120, depending on leg use this drug, visit be available on the Sprint length; a shotgun adapter is www.motionsickness.net network. The equipment available for about $16. For more or call (800) 755-9595. sells for about $250 and information, go to www.snipepod.com or call the plan cost is about $15 (406) 933-8658. (plus the basic voice plan). For information, call (858) 300-3380 or visit www.mobileswipe.com.

BAY BOAT: Texas boat maker Southshore Boats couples innovative hull design with a custom-fitted layout to produce its angler-friendly bay boats. Southshore’s newest model is its 24- foot Variable Dead Rise V- Hull boat, which has a maximum horsepower of 300 single or 200 dual and a 9-foot-4-inch beam. Its 24-foot length gives fishermen plenty of elbowroom. The boat, with 250 horsepower, sells for about $40,000. For options or more information, visit www.southshoreboats.net or call (361) 972-3322.

BIG POWER FOR BIG BOATS: Honda Marine’s BF225 is ideal in fresh or saltwater, particularly for large sport fishing and cruising boats. According to the company, the powerful 4-stroke outboard motor features a state-of-the- ITALIAN BEAUTY: Savage Arms introduces its new Savage art design that gives it a Milano Over/Under Shotgun. The shotgun, which is unique blend of power, manufactured in Italy, boasts a Turkish walnut stock and is finished torque and efficiency at in a satin lacquer. Offered in 12-, 20-, 28- and 410-gauge, the shotgun any speed. The BF225 boasts such standard features as automatic ejectors, chrome-lined barrels, elongated forcing has a large displacement cones, fiber-optic front sight with brass mid-rib bead and a single selective trigger. The shotguns V-6 engine. It boasts a weigh from 6 to 7 pounds, and sell for about $1,433. For more information, visit www.savagearms.com slim design that allows for or call (413) 568-7001. the mounting of dual engines on a 26-inch center-to-center distance. The outboard motor’s “on-demand” 60-amp alternator reduces heat build-up and keeps the battery charged all BACK SAVER: day. Its oxygen sensor feedback Hunt Comfort’s system refines economy. It comes Folding Classic in 30-inch, 25-inch and 20-inch Cushion, made shaft models. The BF225 sells for with an about $18,289. For dealers or UltraSoft additional features, visit Polymer Gel www.hondamarine.com or call and foam (800) 426-7701. inserts, promises to relieve back pressure and the pain of sitting still by GUN LUBE: SliP 2000’s Lubricant is distributing formulated to clean, lubricate and pressure preserve both small and large and caliber weapons in most climate keeping conditions. It is a non-toxic, non- circulation hazardous synthetic flowing. Its snap system allows hunters to lubricant that can be used RAZOR SHARP: Chef’sChoice says its Exact-V Diamond adjust the two cushions to suit their specific seating by hunters, recreational and Hone Manual Sharpener Model 415 will provide razor competitive shooters. It also sharp edges on a broad range of tools and knives, environment, be it a dove stool, a stand or the ground. has been used by U.S. military including hunting and fish-fillet knives. It uses a two-stage The straps allow for fast set up and easy transport. The forces in Iraq. It comes in sizes sharpening system, precision angle control and diamond Folding Classic Cushion, which costs about $90, comes ranging from a 1-ounce field pack abrasives to produce a sharp double-bevel edge. To use as in various camouflage patterns. To order, visit with flip top ($3.45) to a 4-ounce a conventional V-type sharpener, users can remove the www.huntcomfort.com or call (888) 757-3232. flip top ($7.50) to a gallon (about angle guides. Model 415 comes with a built-in compact $66). To order or for dealer storage box for its sharpening rods and angle guide. It sells information, visit www.slip2000.com for about $40. For dealers, go to www.chefschoice.com or or call (888) 243-6725. call (800) 342-3255. Page 14 March 24, 2006 HEROES

PATRICK STARNES of Laredo caught this 13.06-pound NOEL ORSAK, along with her faithful golden retriever TJ, shows a widgeon drake she shot on a Ducks Unlimited-managed lease near Altaire. CHRIS largemouth bass at Lake Casa Blanca. The bass was 25.75 McDONNELL, her husband, shows his three greenheads. inches long and 20.25 inches around.

Arlington resident KURT WADE caught this 13.1-pound largemouth bass Alba resident BILLY PFEIL pulled this 15.5-pound largemouth from Lake Fork. at Mill Creek Reservoir. He caught it on a Yum Zellamander. The fish The fish was 25.25 inches long and 23.5 inches around. measured 25.5 inches long with a 20.5-inch girth. Share an adventure Want to share your great hunting or fishing adventure with the Lone Star Outdoor News family? HUNTER WELLS, 12, took down this deer on Granite E-mail your photo, phone and caption information to editor@lonestaroutdoornews. com, or mail to: Heroes, Lone Star Outdoor Ranch near Roosevelt. This buck scored 158 3/4 and News, 9304 Forest Lane, Suite 114 South, Dallas, TX, 75243. was shot during the youth weekend. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! We Want to Welcome to Deliver Our Lone Star Outdoor News Texas’ Premier Outdoor Newspaper Newspaper We’re publishing twice a month, so we can bring you the very best of the to You! Texas outdoors from the Big Thicket to the Big Bend and from the Red River to the Rio Grande. And hunters and anglers by the scores are sending us their thank-yous, comments and subscriptions. Every issue, we’ll bring you some of the state’s best outdoor photography and stories. You’ll read about big game hunting, waterfowling, upland bird 24 hunting, freshwater fishing across the state and saltwater fishing all up and down the glorious Texas Coast. Plus, you’ll get national news… conservation updates… weather report… wild game and fish recipes… and the latest break- ISSUES ing news from state and federal wildlife agencies.

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TEXAS TIDBITS OUTDOOR PUZZLER WILD IN THE KITCHEN

ACROSS For crossword puzzle solution, see Page 16 Wild Turkey Stir-Fry 1. Term for trout that spawn upstream 4. A fish coloration Stir-fry dishes are always a good 8. Shotgun model, over and _____ choice when faced with feeding a 10. Term for a group of pheasants family. Like the domestic chicken, 11. Solution used to wash out a gun dog’s eyes turkey meat is a good choice for 12. Coasters lay hundreds stir-fry dishes, and can add that 13. A good bait for the brown trout extra flavor “kick” to a stir-fry 14. Consider this when choosing a recipe. Here is a great recipe from lure the National Wild Turkey 17. A lure that attracts game, fowl or fish Federation’s own Wild About 18. An art of the fly-fishermen Turkey cookbook, which has great 21. Sought after for the fur wild turkey recipes and informa- 22. To adjust a scope tion and can be purchased Directions: 24. A game hideaway through NWTF’s Turkey Shoppe. 25. Stream fishermen do this In a shallow glass bowl, combine 30. Term for a perch species 32. A turkey call Ingredients: orange juice and cornstarch. Add 34. Might be in a hunting kit turkey, and stir to combine. Cover, 35. A boat that folds up for carrying 1/4 cup orange juice and chill for 2 hours. Drain turkey, 37. Device on a fly, _____ guard 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch and discard juice mixture. 39. A shell that fails to fire 1 (1-pound) boneless, skinless Combine chicken broth and soy 40. Bowhunting equipment sauce. Set aside. In a wok or large 45. A game pathway turkey breast, cut into strips 46. Color worn by hunters for safety 3/4 cup chicken broth skillet on medium heat, add oil, 47. The turkey’s feet 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 48. Hunter’s quarry in the Rockies 2 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil seconds. Add broccoli, turkey and 1 clove garlic, minced the next 4 ingredients, then stir- DOWN 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger fry until crisp-tender, about 5 min- 1. A species of deer 2. To make ready to shoot 17. Term for a whitetail’s tines 31. Used in troll fishing 1 cup chopped broccoli utes. Stir in broth mixture. Simmer 3. The ____necked pheasant 19. Teeth determine this on some game 33. Old gobblers that stay to themselves 1 1/2 cup snow peas or green about 1 minute. Serve over rice. 4. Name for a large lake trout 20. A bowhunting quarry in Florida 36. An action on the repeating shotgun beans 5. Used for bait at times 23. A very good walleye bait 41. A good grain lure for traps 1 medium red bell pepper, cut Yield: 4 servings 26. To ready bow or gun for a shot 6. A game resting place 42. A female bear into thin strips 7. Summer trout are found in ____ 27. An excellent pheasant gun, ____ waters musket 43. A fly lure, hares ____ 3/4 cup sliced green onion — Recipe compliments of National 9. A duty of the gun dog 28. A good thing to have in icefishing gear 44. Said to be best lure color to attract fish 1 medium carrot, cut into thin Wild Turkey Federation. For more 15. Shooting at random targets 29. Used to haul catch safely into boat Outdoor Puzzler, strips recipe information or to purchase the 16. A two-legged support for shooting 30. Name refers to the wild turkey Wilbur "Wib" Lundeen 2 cups cooked white or wild rice cookbook visit www.nwtf.org. Page 16 March 24, 2006 GAME WARDEN BLOTTER

WARDEN OFFERS REALITY CHECK an expired registration. One of the •The first weekend of March males with no license claimed to kicked off the annual white bass be a juvenile, so Warden Langford run in Val Verde County. Game One lie leads to another asked for his ID. When he pulled Warden Jason Huebner checked out his wallet, he dropped some- numerous fishermen who were Back in mid-November, Harris dismissed. On Dec. 9, Spitzer license and found that the valid thing on the floor of the boat. having some good luck. However, County Game Warden Derek received notification from the “from date” and the time stamp When asked about the dropped some forgot to buy their fishing Spitzer issued a citation to a man judge that the case was dismissed date had been altered from item, the teen acted like he did not license and others forgot to have for hunting ducks without a valid because the license was produced. 11/30/2005 to 10/30/2005, there- know what Langford was talking the required water-safety equip- hunting license. The hunter was Spitzer still didn’t believe the fore back-dating the license. The about and tried to move his foot to ment on their vessels. Several cita- very adamant that he had bought man’s story and contacted hunter, not knowing that his case cover it. When Langford got the tions were issued. one the night before at Wal-Mart Houston Communications and had been dismissed, was contacted item, it turned out to be a packet of but forgot it at home. Spitzer found out that the man bought his by the judge who set a pretrial of cocaine. The 15-year-old boy LAWBREAKERS GALORE checked with Houston Communi- hunting license on Nov. 30, 11 hearing. On March 3, the hunter was taken to the juvenile justice •Tom Green County Game cations at that time, which still days after Spitzer issued him the showed up at the judge’s office center. He was found to be on pro- Warden Zach Havens and Irion revealed no current license found citation. Spitzer went to the with his very faded, washed and bation for assault. Charges pend- County Game Warden Shane for the suspect. Warden Spitzer judge’s office to look at the license worn hunting license. The hunter ing. Lewis were called to the public advised the man that if his hunt- and to visit with the judge con- was arrested on a third-degree lands area at Twin Buttes to investi- ing license was at home, he could cerning the case. Once at the felony charge of tampering with or WARDEN IN THE SPOTLIGHT gate a hunting call. While dealing send the judge a copy and more judge’s office, Spitzer inspected fabricating physical evidence. •The City of Cameron recognized with that call and issuing citations, than likely the citation would be the photocopy of the hunting Case pending in county court. Milam County Game Warden Mike they observed a pickup coming Mitchell as its outstanding volun- towards them at a fast rate of teer of the year. At its annual ban- Clint Borchardt, while patrolling Hood and Wichita Game Warden park the following morning. Their speed. The wardens signaled for quet, the Chamber recognized the Lake Arlington for fishing viola- Luett McMahen had continued in boat sank, and they were in the the driver of the pickup to stop, warden for his work in the commu- tions, cited a man for no fishing their search for the drowning vic- water from 6 p.m. on Tuseday til 6 but he ignored their efforts and nity, primarily centered around the license. When the man’s partner tim at Lake Arrowhead. The war- a.m. Wednesday morning. continued at a fast rate of speed successful and growing youth fish- returned, he too was asked to pro- dens discovered the body of the down the rough road. The wardens duce a fishing license and identifi- ing event held there annually. got into their vehicle, caught up victim in early March. The body OIL FIELD THIEVES cation, but could not. The name was floating in the area that they with the pickup and were able to CAUGHT BY WARDENS CALL AHEAD NEXT TIME and date of birth given by the sec- had been searching over the past make the stop. The ensuing inves- •Hardeman County Game •Walker County Game Warden ond subject produced no matches. several weeks. The search original- tigation led to possession of drug Warden Matt Thompson and Zak Benge received a call from the The unidentified man fled on foot ly began in February. Wilbarger County Game Warden paraphernalia and minor in pos- to a nearby vehicle. A Good sheriff’s office concerning a doe session of alcohol citations being Dyke McMahen observed some deer in the front yard of several col- Samaritan, who observed what had CONVICT LOSES HIS GUNS suspicious activity in an oilfield filed. happened, pulled in behind the lege students. After Benge and two •Tyler County Game Wardens recently. A vehicle had pulled in deputies arrived, it was determined subject’s vehicle. While fleeing the Bryan Baronet and Bill Zappe con- near a well and storage tanks. The TELL IT LIKE IT IS scene, the subject rammed the that the deer had been hit by a •Tarrant County Game Warden cluded a lengthy investigation on a wardens heard a noise sounding vehicle the night before and that Good Samaritan’s truck, jumped local man, a convicted felon, after like something was being loaded. John Padgett went to a residence to the curb, and then sped away. the students then decided to have a contact was made at a hunting The vehicle left and the officers cite a man for lack of a non-game Warden Borchardt got the license some fresh deer meat. Since none lease in December of 2005. The found it pulling a trailer with no collection permit. Padgett noticed plate number of the fleeing vehicle of the students called about the convicted felon had two deer rifles, lights. The vehicle stopped down the man smelled like marijuana. and was able to get the runner’s true deer, citations were issued for pos- an AR-15 and a .357 Magnum the road, and the wardens made Padgett asked the man if he had identity from his fishing buddy. session in closed season. handgun. Charges are in the works contact with the three people any drugs. The man said he had a The Arlington Police Department bong and some marijuana inside, was notified, and they were able to and officers are seeking a forfeiture inside. One suspect hesitated to SQUIRREL HUNTERS GET A BREAK which Padgett seized. Cases for no locate the vehicle. The following of the seized weapons. remove his hands from his coat •Game Warden Zak Benge received non-game collection permit and day, felony warrants were obtained. pockets when instructed. He was an anonymous call concerning the drug possession are pending. Borchardt and fellow wardens OPERATION CONTINUES found to have a .25 caliber automat- two people hunting squirrels in Michael McCall and Ronald Mathis, CRACKDOWN ic pistol in the pocket. The suspects closed season. Benge responded to SOMETHING WRONG along with APD, tried to serve the •This second wave of Operation had stolen about $2,500 worth of the area and found two fifteen- WITH YOUR EYES? warrants without success. Two days Pescador at Falcon State Park seized oilfield pipe. The subjects were year-olds hunting squirrels with a •Game Warden Chris Dowdy later, APD caught the man and took over 23,000 feet of illegal gill net charged with criminal conspiracy, pellet rifle. Being familiar with the investigated a complaint of people him into custody, but only after and arrested six subjects. One per- and the one subject was charged background of the two teens, trespassing while hunting hogs in another attempt to evade arrest. son arrested for illegal commercial with unlawfully carrying a weapon. Benge issued warnings this time. northern Wise County. Dowdy Borchardt was able to serve two war- fishing was in possesion of a small made contact as the hunters rants and write the citation for no amount of cocaine, which was WARDENS ARE CATCHING WARDENS RECEIVE AWARDS crossed the fence at the location of fishing license while the subject was turned over to DPS narcotics inves- THEM ON THE RIVER •Kleberg County Game Warden the “No Trespassing” sign. Dowdy in custody at the Arlington Jail. tigators riding along with the •Bell County Wardens Ronnie Jason McFall received a prestigious interviewed the three men, who all Arlington PD also filed an evading game wardens. They also seized Langford and Shawn Moore were Medal of Merit at the Law agreed to give written statements. arrest charge on the subject. Cases three boats and motors. Officers patrolling the Lampasas River Enforcement Awards held March Charges pending. pending. responded to a search and rescue at above Lake Stillhouse when they 10 at Austin Headquarters. San Falcon State Park also. Boaters were came upon three people who were Patricio County Game Warden TIDE TURNS FOR LAWLESS ANGLER DROWNING VICTIM SURFACES overdue and found by a Mexican fishing. Two had no fishing Andy Valdez received recognition •Tarrant County Game Warden •Clay County Game Warden Eddie vessel and returned to the state license, and the boat operator had for his military service in Iraq.

1 004 * Page September 24, 2 AD VENTUR CROSSWORD E Hill Co 005 untry r * ovember 25, 2 ivers Page 1 N ADVENTURE See Page 12

* November 11, 2005 T exas’ Prem ier Outdoo NEW SEASON r Newspap er A www.lonestaroutdoornews.com S Volum DAVID J. SAM e 2, Issue 6 GRAPHY BY * AND PHOTO REACH INSIDE STORY PUZZLE FISHING Duck opener: Target high rainfall areas for a good hunt

B y Todd Nafe Despite d ry conditions, du reported a great op ck hun ener th ting guides hunters, a successfu is month. Bu l 2005 t for many on huntin duck season g near water. will depend The best huntin and is spa g is concentrated in rse elsew a few areas, ducks u here — even in sually congregate. areas where th Currently, th e e norm SOLUTION FROM al facto waterfow rs that con l migration aren’t in tribute to weather h place. H as caused man ot, dry wetlands to y stock tanks an M dry up, and th d seasonal igrating shrim ing southw e usual cold fronts p p are leading to ard across th ush- a feeding fren year. e Great Plain zy for red drum s are late this and trou To su t, which is go m up the duc fo od news where y k hunting ou r coastal angle ou find wate tlook statewid rs. centra r, th ere’ll lik e: tions of duc ely be good co THOUSANDS See P Bill Jo ks. n- age 9 hnson, a waterfow and Wildlife in th l biologist for Tex Texas Park e Panh as Parks s and Wildlife to 8 percent of playa andle, reports th fisherie at only 7 s biologists w that collect rainfalls, wrunhich are season w ere shocked al wetlan hen their elec uplan off from ds trofishing su ds, are hold surround floated a 1 rvey ing water. Th ing 3.9-pound substantially from e number is dow largem last year, w n outh bass. cent of the area’s playas w hen roughly ere w 60 per- Despite the sh et. See Page 9 ortage of water, Joh are ducks in the nson says there H are d area. “Where there’s w UNTING ucks,” he said. “T ater, there VESTED VIGIL: closer to L he best bet w AGE fog lifts. Avian in ubb ould be pread as the fluenza has killed Guides across the state reported success at the beginning of duck sea ock, where they to start P 15 he decoy s nea Sta ’ve had nters adjust t Break out the 60 people rly nfield Huntin more rain.” Hu in Southeast A C g Outfitters is lo While ex sia. ity, one spot th cated in perts downp son. at has had Knox like lay the plenty of rain lihood of “bird ; Jeff flu” reaching decoys boys, North Americ See DUCKS, Page 10 an game popula tions this year, the recom y g mend that h State officials eye to strin unters tak they are going preca e it’s time to go discuss how porch. utions. Hunters ys that fill the ad Gear deco the Greenhe See Pa he birds ge 7 nting clients, t regulation changes ese for his hu tions this NA huntin’ t at and ge h accommoda TIONAL aterfowlers me have such lus ry in y, a group of w d wouldn’t exceedingly d An 8-year-old ecentl g Lodge to fin that has been i- Maryland girl took Proposals heard on Camp Huntin year — one rrill, an exper the first b the Cow ered with f the state. She lack bear in ompletely cov many parts o s and lets them 20 the state’s the porch c — a water- atches the bird 05 bear-huntin d new decoys nced guide, w an be hunted. g season. A several fish species boxes of bran e e roost pond c report says th ue. l him when th rest; let the at young hun ream come tr ew tel Let the pond accomp ters Rfowler’s d t after these n nly then is anied by an e s ge p. O xpe e on boys, let’ birds fill it u adult are the rienced By David Sikes “Com t. Some of OF READERS safest h o string e to hun unters in eks, we have t it tim ly the woods. de got a s ponds are on m tonight. We Sherrill’ Proposals are afoot in Austin that the ays nce a season. work to do,” s hunted o See Page 4 would eliminate tag requirements for lot of is your worst chuessler. “Pressure redfish and tarpon, meaning anglers David S r rill explains. CONSER is eager to tea enemy,” Sher VATION Everyone o keep the A confere would be able to keep more trophy xes and see is important t nce this m open the bo It run s onth brings redfish and keep a state-record tarpon. ome talk, s here and not tate agencies a what’s inside. S bird ting. nd concerned The Texas Parks and Wildlife ome ff by over hun organization me work and s them o ori- s together to RANGE RIDERS: Commission heard these proposals so ew un breaks the h addre Deer hunters across the state greeted a new season last Saturday. drink. It is a n As the s ss the threats p and others — such as cracking down just an finally see in osed by t duck camp. zon, you c vasive aquatic sp on a flounder limit loophole and year a s ndings — a ecies. -up time come your surrou turning tripletails into gamefish — at Wake levee par- Se g the open- small, muddy e Page 5 its Nov. 3 meeting. early durin eeds. The season — ly hidden by w Mother Nature ing of duck tial op in to Items within the scoping package Shot, a black lab, retrieves a green-wing teal. nless. Teal swo DEPARTMENTS 3:30 a.m. almost motio rhead. could become more defined after pub- urs after decoys sit ellies yelp ove About two ho thousands of ook. Speckleb ns. lic comment and tweaking by Texas ed, the roar of get a better l shooting begi bling out of b field. d up and the Migra Parks and Wildlife staff. All or part of stum ou in the rice he hunters loa ks coming tory Bird Hunting P GAMING DECISION: ings greets y ng T t front! Spec ag aids deer season the package possibly could return to The wildlife beating w by the sloshi n the left, ou he air — e 6 department is considering making ese disturbed s, “Teal o flies through t Adventure Pa the commission in January to be Ducks and ge n the darknes n!” Steel shot e now. tripletails gamefish. lls take flight. I straight i et into the gam ge 12 ound of footfa Their depar- all. The dogs g ed Pro heard again. If any of the proposals commission’s April meeting. s to a waterfall. and birds f p,” command duct Picks P Conditions bode well for success e sound is akin fowlers to set k, fetch him u ag survive, a final version of each could th e set for water “Maggie, bac e 13 The redfish proposal calls for the leaves the stag Soderquist. y Outdoor Heroes Page 14 either be adopted or killed during the ture t ready. her owner Tim thing, but the Dry range conditions across much elimination of the annual oversized- preads and ge d with e hunters’ clo their s s been pumpe Sweat soaks th he adrena- Crossw of Texas heading into deer season nd, which ha e mid- but the hunt. T ord Puzzle Page 1 tough tim See PROPOSALS, Page 10 The po river, lies in th blivious to all ducks and should bode w e observing deer, which the Colorado rton, are o and limits on 5 ell for hunters looking kept a low water from nch near Wha sh, the sunrise world of Wild in the Kitch to fill their tags, according to Texas profile because lush range oric Pearce ra - line ru better in the en P conditions provided am PRSRT STD dle of the hist ’s biggest win hat could be age 15 ne of the state specks — w This W Parks and Wildlife Department biol- and abundant food ple cover US POSTAG ich ranks as o e. Bill ? contacted at eek’s Weather P E wh ucks and gees a waterfowler herrill can be age 15 ogists. . g grounds for d res of land U GO: Bill S tt Court, Hunters likely won’t face that PAID terin ousands of ac IF YO 1702 Garre The Game W The general deer season opened who leases th ith river 2-1789 or at arden Blotter Pa problem this fall, according to M PLANO, TX Sherrill, he rice fields w (979) 53 IN THE ge 16 Nov. 5 statewide, except for a few flooded t 88. Lockwood, TPW itch PERMIT 210 on the ranch, es of roosting harton, TX 774 Bordering States white-tailed deer bout 3,000 acr W Page counties 17in the Panhandle. The program leader. ater to create a tract ducks w is desire to at This Wee North Zone closes Jan. 1, while the itat. Without h k’s Fishing Report Pa “We’re dried up real bad,” hab ge 18 South Zone continues for two addi- Lockwood said. “This will be the first O utdoor Datebook Page 19 tional weeks, ending Jan. 15. For the year in the last four that I’m not elly goose. last couple of years, m at a speckleb telling hun r takes a shot 500,000 or so deer huntersany of hadTexas’ a ters to get aw aurance Armo corn fee ay from the L ders to find d eer. I think See DEER, Page 11

decoys to fill tring up more nd, hunters s g Lodge. At day’s e Camp Huntin ad at the Cow out their spre

6 * arch 10, 200 Page 1 M

* March ADVENTURE 10, 2006 T exas’ Prem ier Outdoo British Colum r Newspap bia www.lonestaroutdoornews.com er w Volume 2 ilderness odyssey , Issue 14 * INSIDE See Page 19 HUNTING Amistad catches attention Many heading to Texas lake for big year PLACE YOUR ADVERTISING By Alan Clemons The snowbirds

One of t d he nation’s m e guys who grin Texans aren't rated la ost under- hese are th is flocking to kes may soo of the season” hunt geese d attent n receive th it out. “End uring the Lig ion it deserve e se. They live Goose Co ht are s if expectatio a foreign phra nservation O met or exce ns s from the Guides s rder. B eded in this w e to hunt bird ay they're no assmaster Elit eek’s Tand breath ow goose t e many h seeing Series. conservation sn unters eager Long know North. The ese the b to go after n in Texas as a ut to end, but th irds after the ery, and p top fish- season is abo t reg end of the erhaps as a unters can't ge ular season, a ground” fi n “under- North Texas h th nd admit shing lake am ey're also re who did ong anglers ough. ady for a brea n’t want to s en erek Rambo k. Amis hare the secre very pro staffer D s S tad is poised t, A mbers of snow ee Page 6 big for one o about huge nu gest years ev f its heard ted winter On th er. Just week newly sprou e Texas family e FLW Outd s after feeding on a. The up is gobbling oors Stren Se e North Texas are trophies for b nament a ries tour- wheat in th their est turkey ca nglers set re IN TEXAS’ PREMIER OUTDOOR g a detour from in ll- c in g. The Nixon Amistad, th ords on geese are tak me fresh family's two e e Bassmaster E n to rip up so est daughters in ld- field will h lite Series spring migratio particular a it the lake du -land farmers. acclaimed c re “This ring its peak. ts from dry ers allers who cre will be the sprou with some farm practice fo dit tourn greatest bas bo hooked up r their exper ament in his s Ram unters, eagerly which t tise - Row tory,” said Z ere also goose h hey say also p land of Mon ell who w t-’em call. the fie ays off in v tgomery, a 30 the let’s-go-ge ld. eteran of the p -year awaiting 143 ro circuits. “If I w 6, 74 and even in a wheelcha ere Reports of 5 s made See Pag ir and could n from their field e 6 I would be th ot walk, downed birds ere. I would h as time. Steve dline out t ave a han- the rounds. It w u- FISHING he back of t to report tho The s somethin he boat or aldonado called t pring white b g.” M ay field. “Mee unde ass run is Ami ds of birds in a h THE s ld r way in cent tad’s growin san said. “We cou will r ral Texas and an o g reputation a :50 a.m.,” he un through utstanding f s me at 4 d then we late April. de ishery is w em all week an Experts say th served. At th ell not find th they at despite a lin e most recen ill and there gering drou - Series event, t t Stren drove over a h eing ght the fishin he biggest f cribed them as b good. g is total weigh our-day were!” He des ds, t was 105 p y by the thousan ounces ca ounds, 8 own in a valle ways ught by Dav NEWSPAPER d from the high id See Page 9 Anglers fis Mauldin. idden from view h two days a h top 10 s nd then the dirt roads. f NATIONAL tart over with and red trailer full o zero weigh tting out a cove Ohio a t. Pu se decoys was- nd Pennsylv See AM n snow goo joine ania have ISTAD, Page 1 Real Motio lers. It's d the list of s 0 CAUGHT ese waterfow m tates that p IN THE ACT: A n't work for th e it parents t er- largemouth b ment of th o pass on th ass clears the art of the excite huntin e water after b just p g to keep g tradition t eing hooked em. But tryin dre o their chil- by a soft plas hunt for th gs was ant to go to n minus le tic bait. Phot oose droppin ld anyone w gal barriers s o by David J. ts free from g Why wou unt as a min uch Sams. boo ad of decoys. ck Lab. ant to h imum hunt hrough a spre hamp, the bla at work and still w hun ing age and impossible. se in vers his way t trieved by C all th se they are ter-educatio there were gee Champ maneu s over re se are feeding a bird? Becau n require- “No kidding e FUL RETRIEVE: out 800 flie ost of the gee such a hard n is ments. bo said, as h GRACE The flock of ab a But, m unch has not d end of the seaso st night,” Ram f ings esn't even take y and the big b waterfowlers an Anglers gearing up here la to free some o e wind from its w pread and do mile awa e hunting ing d th the s . th See P ed his foot try decoy an ot bad at all about?” ost. At 2 p.m near. age 4 kick y in motion. “N k. “What was th e left the ro anure. set the deco unters loo ther geese com s it in. the m and the light ne of the h o asked. Two o group pack CONSERVATION read was ready king decoys,” o Ramb p being The sp pened to loo y here comes a se and end u OFFICIAL ad clo The annual $ g. But what hap outed. “Get re a bit too 1 million Star to w was comin ing, then a sh ldonado said. Tex of fly a as Anglers Ro alk the planks othing was hole bunch,” M deo p eese? N w CCA T ut on by the g ht next to a exas gives stu ird landed rig chan dents a single b ce to land a sc Piers lined with rods as spring nears and holarship their parents a the nd others opportunity to ne drive off in By Danno W Tex w truck or bo a ise as coast fishin at. The tourn g piers. ment, which a- One of the lo functions as a ngest runnin membersh G known pier g, best- Call ip 214-361-2276 driv enera s on t a e, is also an tions of T he Texas coas ttempt to bo ang exas coastal San Luis Pass F t, the ost the numb lers have floc ishing Pier s young angle er of ked to beachfro see some im hould rs in the state piers. More o nt pressive catch . ften than no boards th es hit the fishermen t, these is spring, inc See Page 5 were rewar jaw-dro luding some hand ded with a pping trout. some catch fo “T r their efforts. rout will be t FISHING LI As 2006 h a he most sou D NE: Anglers li eads toward fter species w ght- EPAR ne the 83rd S many m spring, e have in th TMEN treet Pier in G odern-day a said pie e spring,” TS alveston. fin nglers are als r employee G ding a boun o “Every alen Pruett. Across the Nation ty awaiting th year we see fis beneath the em 30-in h in the 27 to Page 5 Travis Coun planks of ma ch range. A l Product Picks Page 13 ny upper ot of folks will b ty m S e an infected ee PIERS, Pag Heroes Page 14 e 10 TRUCK with plague after hu Outdoor Puzzler Page 15 By Mary H PRSRT ST elen Aguirre nt D A hunter w Au US POSTAG Wild in the Kitchen Page 15 ho was ho stin/Travis C E and trea spitalized ounty Hea PAID or FAX t fields. ted fo Hum lth a gh we r plague in an Services nd sy to get throu Weather Page 15 County h a Travis Departmen PLANO e, makes it ea ospital w “This is a t. , TX An ATV, abov exp as most lik very unus PE layout blind. osed while s ely Travis C ual case for a RMIT 210 ouflage to his kinning rab ounty re , attaches cam Game Warden Blotter Page 16 ing a hun bits dur- sident,” sa bo, left photo ting trip to a Adolfo Valad id Dr. D: Derek Ram ranch in Lea County ez, medical d KILLER WEE New Mexic the Austi irector for Outdoor Datebook Page 17 Th o. n/Travis Cou STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID J. SAMS e Travis Cou and Hu nty Health p nty resident te man Service ositive for n sted “The s Departmen Fishing Report Page 18 on-contagiou re have only b t. ticemic Yersin s, sep- pla een 35 case ia pestis, acc gue in the sta s of a Feb. 23 s ording to te of Texas in th tatement iss century. The T e last ued by the ravis County OF THE patient See PL AGUE, Page 11 214-368-0344

WWW.LONESTAROUTDOORNEWS.COM March 24, 2006 Page 17 OUTDOOR DATEBOOK

James Daughtrey Wildlife Management April 6: Victoria Landowner Workshop. April 15: Lake Mineral Wells SP & Area for 10 years, will speak at noon Professional presentations given on Trailway Kid’s Wilderness Survival. This on managing small acreages for topics including: prescribed fire to create course is a fun way for kids to learn HAVE AN EVENT TO PUBLICIZE? wildlife. Various divisions of TPW will wildlife habitat; plan and plant food what to do if they become lost. The conduct hands-on activities that will plots for wild turkeys; and identify native course includes interactive games, E-mail it to build fishing, hunting, birding and forage species for wild turkey. Sponsored demonstrations and a hike on the [email protected] camping skills and provide information by the National Wild Turkey Federation; nature trail. Kids must be accompanied on where to go to apply them in East participants will receive a Hunting by a parent, guardian or youth group Texas. Times are from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Heritage Club membership. Members leader. 1-4 p.m.; reservations required March 25: The Aggieland Chapter of Sunday. Admission is $10; kids 13 and event is free, but regular admission will receive two issues per year of the (940) 328-1171. Ducks Unlimited and Budweiser will under are free. fees apply (903) 676-BASS. Get in the Game magazine, decal and a membership card. Space limited to the April 20: DU McKinney Dinner at the host the first Duck Jam in Aggieland to April 1: Bass Pro Shops in Grapevine help raise money for wetlands March 28: DU golf at Wild Cat Golf first 100 people who register. Collin County Youth Barn. Contact Club. Contact Matthew Patterson at will offer kids a chance to catch a 10- Participants who pre-register will be David Rogers at (972) 727-5892. conservation. Tickets cost $25. For pound bass and win a $25 gift card. more information, including on-line (713) 843-4934 or e-mail him at entered into a drawing for a shotgun. You Come to Aunt Mikki’s Kid Fish at the April 21: DU Ellis County Dinner in ticket purchases, go to mgp@ weinsteinspira.com. may register at the door if space allows. main aquarium on Saturday at 11 a.m., Waxahachie. Contact John Reagan at www.budweiserduckjam Held at the TPW Wildlife Field Office, March 28: Bass Pro Shops Grapevine put your name in a drawing and at 1 2805 N. Navarro, Classroom 100A with (972) 775-2185. .com. The outdoor concert will take Turkey Calling & Decoy Spreads Class. place in College Station at the Wolf p.m. employees will pull three names field trip to Southwest Victoria County April 21: DU Pampa Dinner at the Starts at 7 p.m. in the hunting depart- out and take the winners to our pond Wildlife Management Association. Check Pen Creek Amphitheater. ment. Free to all. Knights of Columbus. Contact Brian for a chance to catch a 10-pound bass. in 8 a.m.; fee $20 per person; pre- Maddux at (806) 665-7296 or e-mail March 25: Texas Women’s Shooting March 30: DU Lake Ray Hubbard The child with the largest bass will registration deadline March 31; see flier [email protected]. Sports will host the 2006 Ladies Banquet at Rockwall-Chandler’s receive a $25 gift card. Free to all. for information and registration form. For Spring Shooting & Outdoors Clinic in more information, contact Joe Koloski, April 22: DU Dumas Dinner at the Landing. Contact Scott Hooper at April 1: Woodlands DU Dog Days TBA Dallas, featuring handgun, shotgun, (972) 771-0222 or e-mail him at (601) 454-4454. Boars Nest. Contact Bud Kinder at archery and fly fishing from 9 a.m.- 3 in The Woodlands. Contact Kyle Cronan (806) 935-2369 or e-mail [email protected]. April 8: Hill Country Women in the p.m. at Elm Fork Shooting Park, at (281) 381-3562 or e-mail him at [email protected]. 10751 Luna Road. The fee is $25 per March 30: DU Marshall Banquet at the [email protected]. Outdoors event at the Hill Country person and includes lunch. For more Marshall Civic Center. Contact John Shooting Sports Center in Kerrville. April 22: Grand Prairie Angler April 1: Junction Women in the Contact Nanette Kline at (830) 796- Education Instructor Course. This free information, visit www.txdiva.org. Best or Glen Stone by calling (903) Outdoors event at the South Llano 935-4545; (903) 935-4594. 9816. workshop is open to anyone 17 or older March 25-26: Ducks Unlimited will River State Park. Contact Nanette interested in teaching the basics of Kline at (830) 796-9816. April 15: Brazos Bend SP Junior Angler hold a hunter safety program course at March 30: DU Plainview Chapter fishing in their communities. The Banquet at the Plainview Country Club. Education Class. Come join us at a free Market Hall in Dallas during the Dallas April 2: Annual East Fork/West Fork program provides the curriculum, Contact Bobby Tyler at (806) 293- clinic for parents and children. The Arms Collectors Gun Show. Times are Canoe Challenge in Houston to benefit equipment, materials and support to from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call Charlie 4400, or e-mail: [email protected]. clinic will provide the opportunity for conservation of the San Jacinto River families to spend time together while help volunteers successfully introduce Preslar at (972) 270-8688 or e-mail — an important freshwater source for youth and their families to fishing. him at [email protected] for April 1: Texas Freshwater Fisheries learning the basics of fishing through Galveston Bay fisheries. The 14-mile Held at the North Texas Education details. Center Outdoor Fools Day. Bob Lusk, a hands-on instruction. Class size is veteran of 27 years as a private race begins at 5 a.m. at Lake Houston limited to 30 participants. Children Center Annex (TPWD), 4511 Robinson March 25-26: Austin’s 2006 Fishing fisheries consultant, will speak at 10 State Park. Registration is $30. For should be 6 years old or older and Rd. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; pre-registration Expo at the Palmer events Center in a.m. and 1 p.m. on pond management. more information, visit accompanied by an adult. Held at the required, contact Steve Campbell at downtown Austin. Hours will be 9 a.m.- Macy Ledbetter, a former Texas Parks www.luv2paddle.com or call R.D. Nature Center. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (979) stephen.campbell@ tpwd.state.tx.us or 5 p.m. Saturday and 10a.m.-5 p.m. and Wildlife biologist who managed the Kissling at (281) 413-6049. 553-5101. (972) 263-0427. Local outdoorsmen share expertise with Boy Scouts Dozens of local sportsmen recently came the Trailblazer event at Clements Scout together as part of a national youth program Reservation in Athens. Participating families to share their outdoor know-how with nearly received hands-on instruction for archery, 1,000 Boy Scouts and family members. fishing, firearm safety, waterfowl hunting, On March 11, Texas Parks and Wildlife repre- trapping, conservation education and more. sentatives joined volunteers from Bass Pro The Trailblazer Adventure Program is designed Shops, Henderson County Wildlife to expose families to outdoor activities and Committee, Lone Star Bowhunters promote an outdoor way of life. Social trends Realtree.com has everything that hunters are hunting for. We’ve got new Association, Texas Bass Federation, Texas Dog have left our society several generations Hunters Association, and Texas Trappers and removed from a rural lifestyle, but Trailblazer featuresd like Guides and Outﬁ tters, Hunting Maps, Photopost Fur Hunters as part of the U.S. Sportsmen’s gives today’s youth an opportunity that is all Picture Hosting, and Real2Reel, plus a host of favorites. From our Alliance Foundation’s (USSAF) Trailblazer too often missed: the chance to experience world-famous Trophy Den and informative Forums and Chat to the Adventure Program. the wonders of nature firsthand, with expert expanded Games & Arcade. Realtree.com – Always On Stand. Through the Trailblazer Adventure guidance from experienced sportsmen. Program, which is designed to expose families For more information about the Trailblazer to outdoor activities and promote a tradition- Adventure program, contact Frank Price by e- al way of life, they shared their outdoor pas- mail at [email protected] or visit sions with local youngsters and parents. www.trailblazeradventure.org . OUTFITTERS

Offshore and Bay fishing Duck, Goose and 30' Stamas Dove Hunting 21' Shallowsport 40,000 Acres

Capt. Scott Hickman South Texas 3218 Coral Ridge Ct. League City, TX 77573 Deer and Turkey (281) 535-1930 Hunting Fax: (281) 535-1935 10,000 Acres www.circleh.org

OUTFITTERS, HUNTING GUIDES AND FISHING GUIDES: Want to profile your business? It’s easy to advertise on this page — just send us your business card, and let us know how many weeks you want your ad to run. Purchase 12 issues of advertising and your business will be profiled with a photo in this section. Lone Star Outdoor News Hunting and Fishing Guide Business Card Listings: $20 each issue. Please include either a check or credit card billing information with your order. Mail to: Lone Star Outdoor News, 9304 Forest Lane, Suite 114 South, Dallas, TX 75243. CLASSIFIEDS

South Texas — Brooks, Duval, $10 A MONTH FOR 3 PROPERTIES Jim Hogg County Ranches. Call: FISHING JOB WANTED LINES! David A. Lohse Real Estate, Inc. (956) 761-6699. Retiring firefighter (46 years old) 37 characters per line including South Padre Island Waterfront For Sale — East Texas timber and For Sale — 960 Ac., Fisher Co., looking for new career in fly-fishing spaces. Each additional line is $6. properties on the Laguna Madre mule/WT deer, blue/bob quail, hunting tracts. Caddo Lake Realty You can add a photo for an extra and Gulf of Mexico. Call: David A. (903) 679-3741. industry. Resort, shop, guide serv- $20. Classified ads must be prepaid hogs, nice home, barn, pens, bor- ice, or ? Full or part-time. Seasonal by check or credit card. Lohse Real Estate, Inc. (956) 761- dering the Double Mountain Fork Private 16-acre lake — Awesome 6699. fishing, Florida cross largemouth or year-round. Coastal, Hill Country, Call (866) 361-2276 of the Brazos River, income-pro- or ? Travel OK. Contact Scott For Sale — Kansas hunting tracts. ducing ranch. $785.00 Ac. www. bass, redear, catfish, B&B boat, or e-mail: Brown Realty Co. 318-728-9544. call (512) 237-4792. Great fly Smith, P.O. Box 134, Duncan, Ok. fickesdorety.com, (817) 925- 73534 or (580) 251-0779. [email protected] www.brownrealtyco.com 0483. fishing. Page 18 March 24, 2006 FISHING REPORT

CENTRAL chartreuse/white Rat-L-Traps. White bass are fair on minnows and jigs. White bass are fair on limetreuse feet. Crappie are good on live minnows in 8 feet. minnows and silver striper jigs. Smallmouth bass are Humdingers. Catfish are fair on nightcrawlers and Catfish are slow. SWEETWATER: Water lightly stained; 58 degrees; slow. Crappie are good on minnows and blue tube jigs. Danny King’s Punch Bait. BASTROP: Water stained. Black bass are fair on water- 31.5’ low. Black bass are fair. Crappie are fair on min- Channel and blue catfish are fair on stinkbait and melon and pumpkinseed/orange spinnerbaits, LIVINGSTON: Water fairly clear; 59 degrees; 3.92’ low. nows and jigs. White bass are fair. Catfish are fair on frozen shrimp. Yellow catfish are slow. crankbaits, and Rat-L-Traps. Crappie are good on min- RICHLAND CHAMBERS: Water fairly clear; 53-60 Black bass are good on firetiger and shad colored cut baits. nows and chartreuse tube jigs. Channel and blue cat- degrees; 5.81’ low. Black bass are fair to good on crankbaits and soft plastics. Striped bass are fair on fish are good on stinkbait, nightcrawlers, and liver. TRAVIS: Water clear; 64 degrees; 17.50’ low. Black watermelon or watermelon red Texas-rigged lizards, slabs. White bass are good on slabs, crankbaits, and Yellow catfish are slow. bass to 5 pounds are good on pearl flukes, smoke black/blue jigs and Rat-L-Traps. White bass and hybrid Rat-L-Traps. Crappie are good on minnows. Channel WHITE RIVER: Water lightly stained; 57 degrees; grubs, and chartreuse Bandit crankbaits in 4 – 12 feet. striper are fair on silver/chrome Humdingers. Crappie and blue catfish are very good on prepared bait and 22.72’ low. Black bass are fair on live bait and watermelon red soft plastics near timber near grass lines. BELTON: Water clear; 63 degrees; 3.19’ low. Black Striped bass are slow. White bass to 1 pound are fair are fair on minnows and jigs. Catfish are fair on jug- cutbait, especially cut shad. Yellow catfish are slow. Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. Walleye are fair bass are good on watermelon red and watermelon seed on shad raps and chrome crippled herring spoons in 8 lines set with live perch. – 25 feet. Crappie to 1 pound are fair on minnows and on minnows and jerkbaits. Channel catfish are fair on spinnerbaits, Rat-L-Traps, and soft plastic worms and SAM RAYBURN: Water lightly stained; 61 degrees; blue and white tube jigs in 10 – 22 feet. Channel and chicken liver and minnows. lizards. Hybrid striper are good on minnows, and silver TAWAKONI: Water stained; 54-58 degrees; 8.87’ low. 1.91’ low. Black bass are fair on chartreuse/blue and blue catfish to 5 pounds are good on fresh cutbait and striper jigs. White bass are fair on minnows and striper Black bass are fair on Carolina rigged Brush Hogs chartreuse/green soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and nightcrawlers in 20 – 35 feet. Yellow catfish are slow. jigs. Crappie are good on minnows and blue/white tube (short leader with a light weight) and Texas rigged crankbaits, and on chrome/blue Rat-L-Traps. Crappie WICHITA: Water stained but clearing; 62 degrees; jigs. Channel and blue catfish are fair on stinkbait, craws in 5-8 feet in coves and around bridge columns. are fair on live minnows and white tube jigs. 1.26’ low. Crappie are good on 1/8 oz. chartreuse jigs shrimp, and liver. Yellow catfish are slow. WALTER E. LONG: Water clear. Black bass are good on Crappie are good on minnows and jigs around bridge or small minnows along dam riprap and near old pavil- minnows, spinnerbaits, Rat-L-Traps, and soft plastics. columns. White bass are fair on chartreuse slabs and TOLEDO BEND: Water stained; 5.19’ low. Very little ion pier poles over TPWD-placed brush. White bass and Hybrid striper are good on minnows and spinnerbaits. live minnows. Striped bass and hybrid striper are fair BROWNWOOD: Water stained; 55 degrees; 2.56’ low. fishing activity due to low water level. Navigation is hybrid striped bass are fair on minnows and white White bass are good on minnows and spinnerbaits. on chrome Rat-L-Traps and Sassy Shad along and out Black bass are fair on chartreuse/white spinnerbaits dangerous due to numerous stumps and stickups. twister-tails along dam and trolling. Channel catfish are Crappie are good on minnows. Channel and blue cat- from the dam. Catfish are fair on nightcrawlers. and crankbaits on the main lake, and on shad Tournaments have been moved to Lake Sam Rayburn. fair on bait shrimp, punchbait or trotlines baited with crankbaits and Rat-L-Traps. Hybrid striper are fair on fish are fair on minnows, frozen shad, bloodbait, and shad. cutbait. Yellow catfish are slow. shad and crawfish crankbaits. White bass are good on TEXOMA: Water clear; 52-58 degrees; 1.28’ low. Black small tube jigs and Li’l Fishies. Crappie are fair on PANHANDLE bass are fair on crankbaits, jigs, Carolina-rigs and Rat- COASTAL watermelon red and watermelon green tube jigs and WHITNEY: Water murky; 3.89’ low. Black bass are slow L-Traps. Smallmouth bass are slow to fair on live shad, minnows. Catfish are slow. to fair on crankbaits and Rat-L-Traps. Striped bass are drop-shot rigs and silver blue Pirk Minnows. Crappie BAYLOR: Water lightly stained; 54 degrees. Black bass slow. White bass are slow. Crappie are fair on minnows. are fair on minnows and jigs under the bridges. Striped are slow. Crappie are slow. Catfish are slow. NORTH SABINE: Redfish and black drum are fair to BUCHANAN: Water clear; 62 degrees; 8.60’ low. Black Catfish are slow. bass are fair on live shad and Sassy Shad. Catfish are good in the river on Carolina-rigged shad. Trout are fair fair to good on cut shad. bass are good on Texas rigged heavy tubes, crawfish GREENBELT: Water lightly stained; 53 degrees; 25’ on topwaters and Corkies on the Louisiana shoreline. Rat-L-Traps, and white/chartreuse Terminator spinner- NORTHEAST low. Black bass are good on shad-colored crankbaits baits along break lines in 4 - 8 feet. Striped bass are WEATHERFORD: Water stained; 56-62 degrees; 7.21’ near points, and watermelon Senkos and white spinner- SOUTH SABINE: Trout are fair to good on red shad and good drifting live bait, casting Snap Back soft jerkbaits low. Black bass are fair on crankbaits around docks. baits along moss beds. Crappie are good on jigs and ATHENS: Water clear to lightly stained, 54-62 degrees; glow Bass Assassins, Sand Eels and Trout Killers on the on red Bait Jerker Hooks, and trolling above Shaw Crappie are fair in the fishing barge and marina boat minnows. White bass are fair on live bait and shad-col- 1.68’ low. Black bass to 9.97 pounds are good on soft Reef. Flounder are fair to good on the Louisiana shore- Island. White bass are good jigging Pirk Minnows, slips on Texaco jigs and minnows. Catfish are good on ored jerkbaits. Smallmouth bass are fair on live bait plastics - Rat-L-Traps and spinnerbaits are also catch- line on plum and red shad plastics tipped with shrimp. casting 2” Spoiler Shads, and trolling Shad Raps from nightcrawlers. White bass are fair. Bream are good on and shad-colored crankbaits near points and riprap. ing good numbers. Crappie are good from the bank on Redfish and black drum are good on live shrimp at the The Willows up the lake. Crappie are slow. Channel cat- worms. With the low water level, boaters are advised to Walleye are good on live bait and crankbaits. Catfish minnows and fair on small plastics. Catfish are slow to jetty. fish are good. Yellow and blue catfish are good on jug- exercise caution. are good on minnows. lines. fair on Canadian nightcrawlers and prepared baits from the bank. Juglines with shad are also catching numbers. SOUTH MACKENZIE: Water lightly stained; 49 degrees; 69.35’ BOLIVAR: Trout are fair to good on the shorelines and CANYON LAKE: Water gin clear; 65 degrees; 3.06’ low. Black bass are fair on live bait and shad-colored at Rollover Pass on live shrimp. Redfish and black low. Black bass are very good on crawfish Rat-L-Traps, crankbaits. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. drum are fair to good at Rollover Pass on crabs and live BOB SANDLIN: Water clear; 55-61 degrees; 5.66’ low. AMISTAD: Water clear; 68 degrees. Black bass are white Terminator tungsten spinnerbaits, smoke/red White bass and striped bass are good on live bait. shrimp. Whiting are good along the beachfront on fresh excellent on spinnerbaits, crankbaits, soft plastics, and tubes, and pumpkin/chartreuse Snap Back lizards along Black bass are fair on crankbaits and Texas rigs with Smallmouth bass are fair on live bait and jerkbaits. dead shrimp. topwaters. Striped bass are good on large red jerkbaits. sloping gravel flats in 4 - 10 feet. Striped bass are small to medium soft plastics. White bass are fair on Walleye are good on live bait and chrome jerkbaits. White bass are good on Rat-L-Traps, slabs, and min- fair on silver Pirk Minnows, Spoiler Shads, and trolling. white Road Runners and slabs. Crappie are fair on min- Catfish are good on minnows. White bass are very good on 1/8oz. Tiny Traps, Pirk nows and jigs. Catfish are fair on nightcrawlers and live nows up the Pecos River. Crappie are slow. Channel TRINITY BAY: Trout are fair to good on the east shore- Minnows, and swimming 2” Spoiler Shads in pockets perch. and blue catfish are good on cheesebait, shrimp, and line shell on Corkies, Catch 2000s and topwaters. and coves in 8 - 12 feet. Smallmouth bass are good on nightcrawlers. Yellow catfish are slow. MEREDITH: Water lightly stained; 51 degrees; 27.31’ Black drum and sheepshead are good on shrimp crawfish Rat-L-Traps, smoke/red JDC Craws, 3” tubes, low. Black bass are fair on live bait, chartreuse/white around rock pilings and structure at the Spillway. CADDO: Water fairly clear; 64-68 degrees; 0.33’ high. crankbaits. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs sus- and Devil’s Tongues on drop shots over rock piles in 4 BRAUNIG: Water stained; 91 degrees. Black bass are Bass are excellent, with good sizes and lots of num- pended 12-17 feet. White bass are good on slabs - 15 feet and ledges of main lake points early. Crappie fair on crankbaits and dark blue and red soft plastic bers, on lizards, flukes and Senkos (in dark colors) tipped with minnows near points and humps. EAST GALVESTON BAY: Trout and black drum are fair are good on minnows and crappie jigs at the fishing worms around the rocks at the dam are, and in grassy fished around the cypress trees. Crappie are shallow, Smallmouth bass are fair on chartreuse/black back to good along the Houston Ship Channel on live pier and tight to trees in 4 - 8 feet. Channel catfish are areas. Striped bass are very good on perch, shad, and spawning and good on shiners around the cypress crankbaits. Walleye to 7 pounds are fair on live bait shrimp. Trout are good on plum/chartreuse and red good on minnows, Black Salty baitfish and night- chicken livers. Redfish are slow. Channel and blue cat- trees. Catfish are good on limblines with blood bait. and crankbaits near northern points and riprap. shad Bass Assassins, Sand Eels and Trout Killers in 6 crawlers. Yellow and blue catfish are good on juglines fish are good on liver, shrimp, and shad. Yellow catfish Bream are starting to move in, but not bedding yet. Channel catfish are fair on live baits and cut baits. to 8 feet of water over shell when the wind allows. in 12 - 30 feet. are slow. CEDAR CREEK: Water clear; 56-60 degrees; 4.57’ low. COLEMAN: Water fairly clear; 57 degrees; 2.29’ low. PALO DURO: Water lightly stained; 44 degrees; 47.8’ WEST GALVESTON BAYS: Trout are fair to good over Black bass fair on soft plastics in back of creeks and CALAVERAS: Water stained; 90 degrees. Black bass Black bass are fair on soft plastic worms and lizards. low. Black bass are fair on live bait. Crappie are fair on shell and mud on glow/chartreuse and plum Bass around near shore stickups, also on medium diving are good on shad, live minnows, and soft plastic worms Hybrid striper are good on slabs. Crappie are good on jigs and minnows. Smallmouth bass are fair on live bait Assassins, Sand Eels and Trout Killers. Flounder are crankbaits. White bass are very good on T.N.T. jigging in grassy areas along the shoreline. Striped bass are live minnows. Channel and blue catfish are slow. Yellow and black back jerkbaits. Walleye are fair on live bait. spoons over mid-lake humps. Hybrid striper to 11 very good on liver, perch, and spoons. Redfish are slow. fair to good near Snake Island on mud minnows and catfish are slow. Channel catfish are fair on cut baits. pounds are excellent on Sassy Shad. Catfish are good Crappie are slow. Channel catfish are good on liver, shrimp. Black drum and sheepshead are fair to good on cut shad fished around deeper points. Crappie are shrimp, and nightcrawlers. Blue catfish are good on at the jetty on crabs and live shrimp. COLORADO RIVER: (At Colorado Bend State Park) good under bridges on tube jigs and small minnows. liver and nightcrawlers. Yellow catfish are slow. WEST Water clear. Black bass are slow. Striped bass are good TEXAS CITY: Oversized black drum are good from the in the park area. White bass are excellent on blue/white COOPER: Water stained; 54-59 degrees; 13.77’ low. CHOKE CANYON: Water stained; 67 degrees; 3.66’ ALAN HENRY: Water lightly stained; 54 degrees; 1.75 pier at the end of the dike on shrimp and cracked and chartreuse crappie jigs, Teeny Torpedoes, Rat-L- No report available. Due to the low level of the lake, low. Black bass to 8 pounds are very good on brown low. Black bass to 5-pounds are good on live bait and crabs. Gafftop and sheepshead are good on shrimp Traps, and spinnerbaits. Crappie are slow. Catfish are boaters are advised to use extreme caution. shrimp Lucky Craft Live Pointer 95’s, chartreuse shad dark jigs fished tight to cover. Crappie are good on min- around the rocks and pilings. Redfish are fair to good fair on trotlines baited with perch. Lucky Craft Pointer 100’s, watermelon 10” Berkley nows and jigs. Note: Two black bass over 13-pounds on shrimp in Moses Lake. Power Worms, and gold Nichols spinnerbaits on main were caught and inducted into ShareLunker program. FAIRFIELD: Water clear; 68 degrees; 3.75’ low. Due to DUNLAP/MCQUEENY: Water stained; 63 degrees. lake points and in the backs of coves in 2 - 10 feet. the low water level, only one ramp is open - launching Black bass are fair on spinnerbaits and watermelon FREEPORT: Flounder are fair to good on mud minnows is difficult and generally requires two people. With White bass are very good on large minnows upriver, ARROWHEAD: Water lightly stained; 60 degrees; 2.32’ red soft plastics early, and later on watermelon and and jigs worked at Parker’s Cut. Redfish and more anglers accessing the lake recently, reports of fair vertically jigging Riverside Mystic Shad and chartreuse low. Black bass are slow on crankbaits and soft plastics chartreuse Texas rigged Berkley Gulp Lizards in 4 - 10 sheepshead are fair to good around structure on live to good bass and red fish and particularly good catfish shad Berkley Blade Dancers tipped with live minnows in back of coves and creeks. Crappie are fair on min- feet. White bass are slow. Crappie are good on live shrimp and crabs. Trout are fair to good for drifters in fishing are coming in. Tilapia remain slow. around the Hwy. 99 bridge in 5 - 10 feet, and good nows and jigs near derricks about 15 feet and near minnows and chartreuse/green crappie jigs in 10 - 15 Christmas Bay on live shrimp and topwaters. trolling silver shad Bomber A’s in the main river chan- State Park area. White bass are fair on shad-imitation feet. Channel catfish are good on shad, chicken livers, nel. Crappie are excellent on silver 2” YUM Vibra baits near Pawnee Point. Blue catfish are good on and frozen shrimp in 10 - 20 feet. Blue catfish are very FORK: Water clear – upper end stained; 53-60 King tubes tipped with live minnows over brushpiles shad, punch bait and juglines suspended 2 feet off EAST MATAGORDA: Trout are fair while drifting scat- good on cut gizzard shad and stinkbait. Yellow catfish degrees; 3.9’ low. Black bass are fair on black/blue jigs and standing timber in 4 - 12 feet. Channel and blue bottom in upper part of lake. tered shell on black, red shad and fire tiger Bass are slow. (trimmed) with a matching trailer fished along main catfish to 6 pounds are excellent on Lewis King Assassins, Sand Eels and Trout Killers when the wind lake grass and around boat houses, ?oz. white/char- punchbait, large minnows and perch in 8 - 15 feet. COLORADO CITY: Water clear; 60 degrees; 2.12’ low. allows. Redfish and flounder are fair to good along the FAYETTE: Water clear; 73 degrees. Black bass are very treuse spinnerbaits on windy banks, and watermelon Yellow catfish to 20 pounds are good on trotlines and Black bass are slow. Crappie are fair on minnows and west shoreline on soft plastics tipped with shrimp. good on watermelon, watermelon red, and watermelon red wacky rigged worms in the back of coves (north juglines baited with hybrid bluegills and jumbo min- jigs. White bass are fair on live bait. Redfish are slow. black/green Wacky Worms and Senkos in 2 – 8 feet, end) in 4 feet. Crappie are fair on small jigs in 30-32 nows in 20 - 30 feet. Catfish are fair on live baits. and on white and white/chartreuse spinnerbaits, and on feet on deeper flats, with limited numbers showing up MATAGORDA: Trout are fair to good on the south shore- pumpkinseed Dead Ringer worms along the outside in 10 feet or less. Catfish fair on prepared baits in10- line on red shad and plum Bass Assassins, Sand Eels 22 feet. COLETO CREEK: Water clear; 69 degrees (79 degrees edges of breaks. Channel and blue catfish to 6 pounds at hot water discharge); 3.22’ low. Black bass are good FT. PHANTOM HILL: Water clear; 62 degrees; 6.7’ low. and Trout Killers. Redfish are fair to good on the shore- are good on cut shad and shrimp over baited holes. on soft plastics and Rat-L-Traps. Striped bass are slow. Black bass are slow. Crappie are fair on minnows and lines on gold spoons and MirrOlures. GRAPEVINE: Water lightly stained; 54-58 degrees; White bass are slow. Crappie are slow. Channel and jigs. White bass are fair on live bait. Catfish are fair on 6.84’ low. Black bass are fair on Texas or Carolina blue catfish are slow. Yellow catfish are slow. live bait. GRANBURY: Water stained; 0.41’ low. Black bass are PORT O’CONNOR: Trout are fair to good around Grass rigged soft plastics around near shore brush and on good on chartreuse green and watermelon crankbaits Island, the grass flats in San Antonio Bay and the and Rat-L-Traps. Striped bass are fair on chrome/white crankbaits along the dam. Crappie are fair to good on HUBBARD CREEK: Water lightly stained; 58 degrees; minnows and jigs over brushpiles. White bass are fair FALCON: Water clear; 72 degrees. Black bass are good Bayucos Flats on red shad and pumpkinseed Bass striper jigs and minnows. White bass are good on live on watermelon red and watermelon orange spinner- 10.82’ low. Black bass are fair on live bait and Assassins, Sand Eels and Trout Killers. Redfish, black minnows and silver striper jigs. Crappie are fair on min- on Humdingers. Catfish are slow to fair on night- black/blue soft plastics or jigs fished tight to cover. crawlers. baits, flukes, Sweet Beavers, and Brush Hogs. Striped drum and sheepshead are fair to good on shrimp at the nows and clear white tube jigs. Catfish are good on live bass are slow. Crappie are slow. Channel and blue cat- Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. White bass and jetty. bait, frozen shrimp, and liver. fish are excellent on bloodbait, cutbait, and shrimp. hybrid striper are good on live bait and shad colored JOE POOL: Water fairly clear; 53-59 degrees; 3.22’ Yellow catfish are slow. Mexican fishing licenses and crankbaits. Catfish are fair on prepared baits and worms. ROCKPORT: Trout are fair to good near Traylor Island GRANGER: Water stained; 65 degrees; 0.32’ low. low. Black bass are fair on red shad lizards and perch boat permits are required to fish in Mexican waters. and over the reefs in Copano Bay on live shrimp, Black bass are fair on white spinnerbaits and black pattern crankbaits in 6–8 feet. Crappie are fair on min- Everyone in the boat must have a Mexico Fishing plastic worms upriver. White bass are good upriver. nows and jigs. White bass are fair on white Road License whether fishing or not. NASWORTHY: Water lightly stained; 58 degrees. Black Corkies, Catch 2000s and She Dogs. Redfish and black Crappie are good on jigs in shallow water all over the Runners and slabs. Catfish are fair on prepared baits. bass are fair on live bait. Crappie are fair on minnows drum are fair to good in the channels and Intracoastal on crabs and live shrimp. lake. Blue catfish are good on prepared baits along MEDINA: Water stained; 68 degrees; 13.79’ low. Black and jigs. Redfish are fair. White bass and striped bass windy points. Yellow catfish are fair on live perch. LAKE O’ THE PINES: Water stained; 53-58 degrees; bass are good on chartreuse Yo-Zuri 3D Vibes, white are good on cut shad and minnows. Catfish are fair on 3.46’ low. Black bass are fair on Texas rigged water- spinnerbaits, and chartreuse shad Lucky Craft CB- cut shad. PORT ARANSAS: Redfish are fair to good at the North LBJ: Water clear; 62 degrees; 0.20’ low. Black bass to melon seed soft plastics and Rat-L-Traps. Crappie are 001’s across main lake points and coves in 2 - 10 Jetty on live shrimp. Sheepshead and gafftop are good 8 pounds are good in 2 - 6 foot flats on fair to good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on feet, and on watermelon/chartreuse 7” Berkley Power OAK CREEK: Water lightly stained; 57 degrees; 18.43’ on live shrimp at the South Jetty. Gafftop, black watermelon/red twitch baits, wacky and Texas rigged cut shad and nightcrawlers. worms tight to timber in 4 - 10 feet. low. Black bass are slow. Crappie are fair on minnows drum, whiting and sharks are good on the beachfront. watermelon/chartreuse Whacky Sticks, crawfish Rat-L- Striped bass are very good jigging silver C.C. spoons and jigs. Catfish are fair on minnows. No boat ramps Traps, and white/blue/chartreuse Terminator spinner- around the dam, and on chrome/blue Red Fins in sur- open. 4x4 vehicles can unload on dirt road near the LAVON: Water stained; 52-58 degrees; 9.72’ low. CORPUS CHRISTI: Trout are fair to good in the chan- baits. White bass are good on Pirk Minnows, swimming Black bass are fair on red shad lizards, green pump- face action in the middle of the day on main lake dam. nels along the causeway on live shrimp under a pop- 2” Spoiler Shads, and trolling on main lake points in 8 kin/red Sweet Beavers and crankbaits in 5-10 feet. points. White bass are very good on live minnows and - 20 feet. Crappie to 15” are very good on crappie jigs, silver/blue Fle-Fly slabs upriver, and good trolling shad ping cork and finger mullet. Redfish are fair to good on Crappie are fair to good on minnows and jigs. Catfish OH. IVIE: Water lightly stained; 56 degrees; 17’ low. small grubs, and minnows in 1 - 3 feet. Channel cat- colored Shad Raps. Crappie are excellent on live min- shrimp along the drop-offs to the Intracoastal. are fair on prepared bait and cut shad. Black bass are fair on live bait. Crappie are fair on min- fish are good on minnows and liver. Yellow and blue nows and silver 2” YUM Vibra King tubes around nows and jigs. White bass are fair on slabs tipped with catfish are good on trotlines and juglines baited with brushpiles and standing timber at night under lights minnows. Smallmouth bass are fair. Channel catfish are BAFFIN BAY: Trout are fair to good on live shrimp live perch and cut perch. LEWISVILLE: Water stained; 55-60 degrees; 7.44’ low. in 10 - 25 feet. Channel and blue catfish to 6 pounds under a cork around the rocks. Black drum and redfish Black bass are fair on lizards and grubs off secondary are very good on Lewis King punchbait and goldfish. fair on live bait. are fair to good at the Land Cut on live shrimp. Trout points and crankbaits fished along near shore structure. Yellow catfish to 20 pounds are good on juglines bait- NAVARRO MILLS: Water stained; 4.02’ low. Black bass are fair to good near the Tide Gauge on Corkies and Crappie are fair on jigs around boat slips and bridge ed with perch and goldfish. POSSUM KINGDOM: Water clear; 61 degrees; 3.93’ are good on live minnows and chartreuse soft plastics Catch 2000s. pilings. Catfish are fair on nightcrawlers and cut shad. low. Black bass are fair on black/blue jigs and Senkos and crankbaits. White bass are slow. Crappie are fair on in back of creeks in Rock and Caddo Creek areas. minnows. Channel and blue catfish are good on live SOUTHEAST White bass are good in and around river. Striped bass bait, bloodbait, and liver. Yellow catfish are slow. PALESTINE: Water fairly clear; 53-60 degrees; 2.54’ PORT MANSFIELD: Trout are fair to good while drifting low. Black bass are fair to good on crankbaits, Rat-L- are fair at night near lighted piers. Blue and channel grass flats on Trout Killers, Bass Assassins, Sand Eels Traps and brown jigs with a watermelon seed trailer. CONROE: Water stained; 3.49’ low. Black bass are catfish are fair on juglines in the upper part of reser- and topwaters. Redfish are fair to good on topwaters PROCTOR: Water fairly clear; 55 degrees; 4.55’ low. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs in 4 – 10 feet. good on chartreuse and watermelon spinnerbaits and voir. Rainbow Trout are good below the dam near and shrimp on the flats. Sheepshead and black drum Black bass are slow. Striped bass are slow. White bass Catfish are fair on trotlines with cut shad. Hybrid crankbaits, and on orange/white Rat-L-Traps. Striped Highway 16 Bridge with a release of 2,250 trout on are good on shrimp in around East Cut. are slow. Crappie are very good on minnows and pink striper and white bass are fair on chrome Rat-L-Traps, bass are fair on live bait and green striper jigs. Crappie March 10. tube jigs. Channel and blue catfish are fair on frozen shad and slabs. are fair on minnows and chartreuse tube jigs. Catfish shrimp and nightcrawlers. Yellow catfish are slow. are good on cutbait, prepared baits, and frozen shrimp. SOUTH PADRE: Trout, redfish and black drum are fair SPENCE: Water lightly stained; 58 degrees; 49.4’ low. to good along the Intracoastal on live shrimp and mul- RAY HUBBARD: Water fairly clear; 54-60 degrees; 3.1’ Black bass are slow. Crappie are slow. White bass are SOMERVILLE: Water stained; 2.68’ low. Black bass are GIBBONS CREEK: Water stained. Black bass are good fair on minnows. Striped bass and hybrid striper are let. Trout are fair to good on Top Dogs at Stover Point. low. Black bass are fair on Texas rigs, crankbaits and Trout and redfish are fair to good on live shrimp at slow. Hybrid striper are slow. White bass are slow. spinnerbaits. Crappie are slow to fair on minnows and on white/red spinnerbaits crankbaits, and on watermel- fair on minnows. Catfish are fair on cut baits. Holly Beach. Crappie are slow. Channel and blue catfish are slow. jigs in the marinas and around bridge columns. White on soft plastics. Crappie are fair on minnows. Catfish Yellow catfish are slow. are fair on cutbait and cheesebait. bass are slow to fair on slabs and minnows. Catfish are STAMFORD: Water lightly stained; 59 degrees; Black fair on prepared baits. bass are fair on live bait and black/chartreuse PORT ISABEL: Trout are fair to good at Airport Cove on STILLHOUSE: Water fairly clear; 65 degrees; 0.73’ RAY ROBERTS: Water clear; 54-59 degrees; 3.66’ low. HOUSTON COUNTY: Water stained; 61 degrees; 0.87’ crankbaits. Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. White shrimp, Corkies and She Dogs. Trout and redfish are low. Black bass are fair on watermelon and watermelon Black bass are fair to good on spinnerbaits, jigs and high. Black bass to 7 pounds are very good on June and striped bass are good on live bait. Catfish are fair fair to good on the Gas-Well Flats and Un-necessary seed crankbaits and spinnerbaits, and on pearl medium diving crankbaits. Crappie are fair on bug red soft plastic worms north of the marina in 8 on minnows. Island on live shrimp under a popping cork. March 24, 2006 Page 19 ADVENTURE Fly-fishing the Guadalupe

PLENTY TO GO AROUND: Texas Parks and Wildlife — along with Trout Unlimited — stock the Guadalupe with rainbow trout. By Diana Kunde soccer official — we figured he’d catch on to fly-casting pretty quickly. He did. Spotting subtle signs of a strike and then playing the reen water the color of old turquoise rippling past fish on a barb-less hook proved more difficult — for all of us. limestone bluffs. Rainbow trout heavily stocked not Pelland tied a woolly bugger for Julian; I used a very effective size only by Texas Parks and Wildlife, but also by Trout 20 RS-2 fly, an emerging mayfly imitation, and Jim had a hare’s G Unlimited. ear nymph. Those are only two of many reasons to fly fish the Guadalupe Jim proved to be the champ, playing and netting a surprise River tailwater south of Canyon Lake Dam in spring. 20-inch German brown trout. Trout Unlimited stocks a few of I wanted to introduce our Romanian friend Julian Udrica to these each year, Pelland said. Still, they’re not that commonly Texas fly-fishing. This was his first time in the States, and his caught. first time in Texas. He also wanted to see the Alamo — so, bingo, The big brown was a keeper in this stretch of river set aside for the Guadalupe was it. artificial bait only. TPW lets fishers keep one trout more than 18 I contacted James Pelland, guide and owner of Guadalupe inches. But Pelland opts to do all catch-and-release, and that Trout. He, my husband, Jim, Julian and I set out on a bright was fine with us. Fishing should remain excellent on this stretch February morning to wade the spring-fed river near New TEXAS TREAT: Jim Kunde shows off a 20-inch German Brown trout Braunfels. caught on the Guadalupe. Photo by Diana Kunde. of river through April and into May. Pelland says he “fell in love” with this stretch of Texas river ing a variety of trailing nymphs, weighted so that our flies float- As we crunched our way back to the car, over gravelly islands while a MBA student at the University of Texas. He came to the ed just up from the river bottom. and past the bleached skeleton of an armadillo, I asked Julian — Lone Star State from Virginia, by way of Montana. Five years He found a location about 8 miles downstream from the dam, whose prior fishing experience was with casting rods on large with a major Austin high-tech firm after graduation convinced partly protected from the fierce wind by a high limestone ridge. bodies of water — what he thought. him that the corporate life wasn’t for him. It wasn’t long before we were hooking into some very nice rain- “It was very different, “ he said, “and beautiful.” Now he sings the praises of the Guadalupe and takes out par- bows. ties up to three people through his guide service. Julian is family, first cousin to our son Tom’s wife, Anna, who Diana Kunde has 30 years of experience writing and editing for Our Monday morning was sunny and windy — neither con- also hails from Romania. Because he’s a longtime athlete — a newspapers that include the Dallas Morning News. She is a free- dition exactly ideal for hooking wary trout. Pelland had us try- former national soccer team player for that country and current lancer based in Arlington, reachable at [email protected]. IF YOU GO Guide: James Pelland charges $175 for a half-day of guided wade-fishing for one person on the Guadalupe, with $25 for each additional person up to three. He also takes full-day wading trips (lunch provided) and float trips. Visit www.guadalupetrout.com, or e-mail him at [email protected]. His telephone number is (512) 413-3869. The artificials-only stretch of the Guadalupe tailrace is about 40 minutes from downtown San Antonio.

Lodging: New Braunfels has numerous hotels, chain motels, plus bed and breakfast inns that can be found at the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce: www.nbcham.org/.

Restaurants: New Braunfels Smokehouse, which has been around since 1945, offers barbecue meats and can be reached at (830) 625-2416. Others can be found at the chamber of commerce Web site. $119 169 95

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