Top Lures for Trophy Trout

Top Texas Outdoor Magazine for 17 Years (see page 75, #1 for more information!)

TEXAS“Texas’ Most Comprehensive OutdoorsOUTDOORS Publication” Journal

February 2016 / $3.99 Prime-Time for Trophy Specks | Quail - A Remarkable Recovery BITE ME - Bass | Shallow Back Lakes Savvy Is the 357 Magnum Still Alive? | Catfishing - Winter Whiskers texasoutdoorsjournal.com

coastal & lake forecasts | tide & solunar tables FINANCING TEXAS FOR 100 YEARS TEXAS“Texas’ Most Comprehensive OUTDOORSOutdoors Publication” February 2016 Journal

For Hunters . . . For Anglers . . . Freshwater Saltwater 16 Just Hunting 14 Just —Bill L. Olson 10 Top Trout Lures- —MattWilliams Gearing Up For Quail Some proven lures that can produce Cold Weather Fishing - Dress Dry, some wall hogs as trophy trout Dress Smart 26 Just Shooting season cranks up.—Robert Sloan —Kerry O’Day 20 Bite Me- A look at some good bait Is the 357 Mag Still Alive? choices for pre-spawn largemouths. —Matt Williams 34 Quail: A Remarkable Recovery- This might well be the return of the iconic bird, but if not, hunters may as well enjoy it while it lasts. —Bob Zaiglin 24 Saltwater Journal —Mark Sosin Points to Remember

CoastWatch – Danno Wise 28 Just Fishing 30 Lower Forecast —Brian Hughes 31 Middle Forecast Winter Whiskers 56 Upper Forecast NMLS493828 58 Louisiana Forecast Lake Roundups — Pros Forecasts 40 Central – John Jefferson 42 Shallow Back Lakes “Savvy”- There’s no escaping change. Especially when you’re trying to keep pace 54 Guns N Stuff 46 North – Brian Hughes Learn back lakes and marshes BE SET IN YOUR with a growing nation. So when the time comes to buy new equipment, —Harold Gunn 47 East – Matt Williams now and benefit when conditions WAYS OR SET ON purchase land or expand your operation, Capital Farm Credit will be Let’s Talk Turkey 60 South - Danno Wise warm this spring.—Nate Skinner there. So rural Texas has access to the financial support it needs to 70 Field Tips & Techniques— 62 West – TOJ Staff IMPROVING THEM. never stop growing. CapitalFarmCredit.com | 877.944.5500 Bill L. Olson & Danno Wise 62 High Plains – TOJ Staff After Deer Season’s Close 68 Tackle Tips & Techniques —Danno Wise Fishing Bass Beds 50 Winter or Not, Here They Come- February 2016 may be the best opportunity for most fishermen to For Everyone . . . On the Cover . . . catch a bragging size speckled trout. —Danno Wise 4 Editor’s Insight – Bill L. Olson “A Prickly Situation” 6 TOJ Notebook – TOJ Staff 64 Texas Offshore —Mike Holmes 67, 69, 71 Guides, Gear & Getaways For more information on “A Pr ickly Talking Tuna 72 Outdoors Calendar Situation” and other fine works of 74 Fishing & Hunting Times art by Lou Pasqua please visit www. 66 Tackle Tips & Techniques 75 Subscription Information loupasqua.com or call (412) 782-4869. —Danno Wise Winter’s Shallow Water Action for Reds

february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 3 Editor’s Insight Bill L. Olson

DOING SOMETHING DIFFERENT

February, being that short month of the year is the perfect time to get outdoors and “Texas’ Most Comprehensive do something different. Even during a leap year, like 2016, when the second month of Outdoors Publication” the year tries to “grow” to almost full month size, there are only 29 days in which to keep you occupied. Factor in days when a crackling fire is more inviting and there does not Publisher/Editor have to be that many activities to fill out the month. Bill L. Olson For example, all the deer hunters that bemoan the close of deer seasons last month Administrative Assistant should look to exotics. My all time favorite free-ranging exotic is a nilgai. If it is free- Adala Ruhge ranging then look on the King Ranch, Kenedy Ranch, or similar ranches along Texas Contributing Outdoors Editors coast in South Texas. Harold Gunn While not much in the way of horns these are challenging animals to hunt. Keen Brian Hughes eyesight, ability to absorb lightweight bullets and excellent on the table are all reason Mike Holmes to pursue these animals. John Jefferson Cody Koehler In the Hill Country there are so many free-ranging exotics hunters need to help Kerry O’Day reduce the herd. Just because it is exotic no longer means it is behind a high fence. Billy Olson While thinking hunting, how about some predator hunting? Grab your favorite Nate Skinner modern sporting rifle, an electronic caller, good camo, and head to the field. It’s time Robert Sloan Mark Sosin to thin the ranks of coyotes, grey fox, bobcats, and even some raccoons or skunks. Matt Williams Those that follow a game management strategy for whitetail deer should also manage Danno Wise the predators. While calling predators slip in a piglet in distress or a wild boar challenge and see if any hogs respond. You never know. Whitetail Deer Editor Bob Zaiglin On the fishing side there are options — call them scouting missions. Freshwater anglers would do well in parts of the Lone Star State to reacquaint themselves with their Art/Production Editor favorite lakes. Many have recently risen 10 feet with lakes in Central Texas rising 50 feet. Sunni Gonzales If the day is on the frosty side, layer up, turn on the electronics and see what has been Advertising Sales inundated with water. I’d certainly take along a rod and reel and a few of my favorite 713/957-3997, 713/957-3996 (fax) jigs, Texas rigged worms, and ‘Traps just to “test the waters.” However the primary mission is to scout likely areas, make notes so on a return trip when the weather Subscription Information and water are warmer your time will be more productive. Call 1-800-222-4TOJ (4865); In Houston, Coastal anglers should also launch and learn. With north winds dropping tides, this 713/957-3997 to charge your subscription by phone. Subscription prices: one year $18.95, is the perfect time to note small reefs, guts, define channels and inlets into back lakes two years $29.95, three years $39.95. Mail or marshes. As an area is surveyed go slow and poke along — literally using a pushpole inquiries/changes of address to: as a sounding rod. TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal February is also a great time to just travel. It might be to an outdoor show in another 1706 West Sam Houston Parkway North part of the state. You might be surprised at what is shown away from your area while Houston, Texas 77043 enjoying local sights. Two good options are Texas coastal bend and the Rio Grande Valley. If you do venture out of state may I suggest either an east or west proposition. Just TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal (ISSN 1082-5940) is a pub- to the east of the Sabine River is a growing little party town of Lake Charles with its lication of Texas Outdoors Journal, Inc. Editorial and casinos, restaurants and old South ambiance. Be prepared to let out your belt when advertising offices are located at 1706 West Sam Houston Parkway North, Houston TX 77043. Phone (713) 957-3997. you over indulge. Fax (713) 957-3996. To the west is a part of the Old Republic of Texas and our closest winter playgrounds. E-MAIL ADDRESS: [email protected] TOJ Online: www.texasoutdoorsjournal.com Angel Fire, Red River and Taos, The Enchanted Circle of New Mexico. You may even TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal is published monthly. Photo- want to try some on Eagle Nest Reservoir. graphs and manuscripts for publication consideration are welcomed, but the publisher assumes no responsibility So don’t get cabin fever, try something different. for such material while in transit or in the office of the Until next month: Pursue all of your outdoor activities in a safe and ethical manner. publication.

Copyright 2016 with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner without permission is prohibited. Views expressed by TEXAS OUT- DOORS Journal contributors do not necessarily express the views of Texas Outdoors Journal, Inc. Publication of CAUTION: All technical data in this publication, especially for handloading, reflect the limited experience of individuals using specific advertising in TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal does not con- tools, products, equipment and components under specific conditions and circumstances not necessarily reported in the article and over which Texas Outdoors Journal has no control. The data have not otherwise been tested or verified by Texas Outdoors Journal. Texas stitute endorsement of products or services advertised. Outdoors Journal, its agents, officers and employees accept no responsibility for the results obtained by persons using such data and Volume 25, Number 2 disclaim all liability for any consequential injuries or damages.

4 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 TOJ Notebook

Big Game Awards Program Celebrates 25 Years of Texas Hunting Heritage

Hunters can show their Texas pride mule deer, javelina, pronghorn antelope, opportunities for tranquil relaxation or by entering their big game harvest in this or bighorn sheep are eligible, regardless of exhilarating surges of adrenaline, but year’s Texas Big Game Awards program. sex or score of the animal in this category. both types of experiences have about The program is accepting entries now All youth hunters who legally harvest equal appeal when it comes to fishing. through March 1, 2016. a white-tailed deer, mule deer, javelina, This, and other motivational factors, are Celebrating its 25th year, the Texas Big pronghorn antelope, or bighorn sheep are illuminated in the third report in a series Game Awards is a partnership of Texas eligible for the “Youth Division,” regard- examining sportfishing “churn,” a term CONSERVATION. EDUCATION. HUNTERS’ ADVOCACY. Parks and Wildlife Department and the less of sex or score or the animal. that refers to anglers’ transitioning in and Texas Wildlife Association recognizing the For more information on the Texas Big out of the sport from year to year. contributions landowners, land managers Game Awards, entry information, or local Produced for the American and responsible hunters make to manag- scorer, visit www.TexasBigGameAwards. Sportfishing Association by Southwick ing and conserving wildlife and wildlife org or call 210-236-9761. Associates, the series sheds new light habitat on Texas’ private lands. All awards for each category will be on anglers’ fishing habits and loyalty to JOIN TODAY Hunters who harvest a white-tailed presented only at the Regional Celebra- the sport. The latest installment, The deer, mule deer, javelina, or pronghorn tion for the region of harvest. New Anglers – Who Are They? Why antelope this season meeting the min- A Statewide Celebration will be coor- Did They Try? Will They Continue?, imum net score requirements set for dinated by TWA in conjunction with the produced in partnership with Responsive their respective region may be eligible to TWA Annual Convention held July 15 in Management, focuses on those new to the receive recognition in the “Scored Entry” San Antonio. sport or trying it again after a long hiatus. category. The top three animals statewide in “We’ve found that newcomers have Scoring is done by local certified each category will be recognized and high expectations about how often they TBGA scorers using the Boone & Crockett receive a special award at the statewide will fish when they first begin, but reality Club Scoring System and entry is free. ceremony. shows they drop out at high rates,” said Hunters of any age who harvest their ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman, first big game animal in Texas are eligible What Lures New Anglers and Keeps referring to the fact that 46 percent anglers for the “First Big Game Harvest” category. Them on the Hook in recent years do not fish the following Hunters who harvest a white-tailed deer, Not many activities offer as many year. Nussman further said, “At first

Cover Art For over 31 years revered Pennsylvania wildlife and sport- ing artist Lou Pasqua has shared his passion for the outdoors, particularly bird dogs and upland bird hunting. The self-taught painter’s works have appeared on numerous nationally rec- ognized magazine covers including Gray’s Sporting Journal, Sporting Classics, The Pointing Dog Journal, amongst others and provides the cover art for this month’s issue of TEXAS OUTDOORS JOURNAL. Pasqua’s “A Prickly Situation” beautifully captures the ex- plosion of bobwhite quail from a grassy prickle pear patch as the covey makes a break from its hiding place. Not only is a covey rise an adrenaline rush for the wingshooter, but Pasqua captures the muscular tautness of both the dog on point and its bracemate honoring the point at the moment the rise occurs. The pointers’ facial expressions seem to say, “my nose said y’all were there.” For more information on “A Prickly Situation” and other fine works of art by Lou Pasqua please visit www.loupasqua. “A Prickly Situation” com or call (412) 782-4869. Visit us at www.biggame.org 6 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 ©2012 Dallas Safari Club glance, this implies their experiences may in their lives, typically when they were quite appeal. The top three reasons people fish not have met their expectations, or other young. They are frequently prompted to are to spend time with family and friends, Your New Generation Lures activities are winning their attention. The fish by family and friends, who also serve to relax, and for the sport or recreation. findings in this series of six reports are as their most common source of fishing For new recruits, the opportunity for meant to help improve efforts to attract information and instruction. relaxation is a strong driver while avid more anglers and keep them fishing.” Report Highlights anglers tend to be in it for the excitement. As the first report in the series • Women make up one-third of new • Age of introduction matters. More uncovered, the overall number of fishing anglers. When it comes to recruited than 80 percent of recruited anglers in participants remains quite stable from anglers, 65 percent are male and 35 the survey year reported it was not the year to year, at around 46 million (which percent are female. However, only 18 first year they’d ever fished. Among those, takes into account youth age 16 years and percent of retained anglers are female. more than a third tried the sport when under), but not because most anglers are • Newcomers are younger. More than they were five years old or younger. In out there on the water. Rather it’s because one-half of recruited anglers are under fact, more than half of anglers who fish about the same number of people join and 35, compared to 28 percent of retained year after year say they first started fishing leave the population each year. anglers. Only 12 percent of recruited when they were five years old or younger. What’s New anglers are between the ages of 55-64, • Others’ influence is strong. The DESIGNED TO THE GILLS! Younger, female urban dwellers are compared to 22 percent of retained majority of both recruited and retained more likely to be among the ranks of anglers. anglers say their parents had the most newly recruited anglers compared to • Recruited anglers tend to live in influence on their interest in fishing retained anglers, who are much more more populous communities. The largest and their learning. Other factors that PAUL’S UNFAIR NEW RADICAL Lures that Match the SHRIMP likely to be male, rural residents, and portion of recruited anglers, about 47 commonly prompted participation were Look and Sonic Signature of REAL Baits! over 35 years of age. Yet over the long percent, lives in suburban neighborhoods. an invitation from a friend or relative and Unfair Lures are All About Accuracy. Years of knowledge about sh term, there has been minimal shift in the However, the proportion of recruited a desire to spend time outdoors. feeding behavior and lure action are embodied into every lure. Each lure overall angler population towards those anglers between the ages of 18-24 years is • Intentions don’t match up with feature is the sum of careful observation and eld testing that results newcomer demographics due to the greatest in rural areas while the proportion actions. More than three-quarters of in a line of lures that match the look and sonic signatures of its living higher churn rates among them. of recruited anglers between the ages of recruited anglers think they will go fishing ‘relative’. The unique Patented 3D Bleeding Gill Screams “Attack Me”. PAUL’S UNFAIR More than 80 percent of recruited 25-34 years is greatest in urban areas. each year over the next five years; however, Patented features like the ‘Bleeding RIP-N-SLASH anglers reported having fished previously • Recreational togetherness is a strong less than 10 percent are likely to do so. Gill’, ‘Living Eye’, Hydrodynamic Molded Fins and a Stainless Steel Swivel, that improves action and eliminates line twists, make our Enjoy this costal getaway while lures standout. Successfully shed PAUL’S UNFAIR GREAT INVESTMENT/ letting your investment work in saltwater and freshwater. for you. MULLET Now You Have Lures…YOU CAN FISH WITH CONFIDENCE. SECOND HOME NORTH PADRE ISLAND CANAL FRONT CONDO — Paul van Reenen 3 bdrm, 2 bath condo w/one car Inventor and originator of all Unfair Lures designs garage, boat slip and shore power. Built 2004, sold fully furnished or PAUL’S UNFAIR unfurnished, kitchen fully-equipped, full ARROWHEAD size stacked washer/dryer, rental history.

Quiet top floor corner location with VIEW FROM BALCONY great multi-directional views, shaded from afternoon sun, access via stairs and elevator. PAUL’S UNFAIR Near Packery Channel with easy access to DAWGWALKER upper Laguna Madre and Gulf of Mexico. New Schlitterbahn Water Park now open within 250 yards of front door.

2.5 hours from Houston, 2 hours from Austin, 1.5 hours from San Antonio. Owner/Broker | Show by appointment. 14427 Compass Street, Unit A13, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 See on Zillow.com Call for more information: Bill L. Olson Visit our website to  nd a dealer near you. FULLY-EQUIPPED KITCHEN SPACIOUS LIVING/DINING MASTER BEDROOM 713-957-3997 | 713-201-6970 www.UnfairLures.com

8 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 rout fishing along the Texas are at their heaviest in Gulf coast cranks up during April during the spawn. TFebruary for one very good That’s when they can put TOP reason – this is the optimum time to on one to two pounds, catch a true wall hanger. Each and every according to data from cast could be the one that gets hit with Texas Parks and Wildlife a career speck that you have worked for Department. And that’s during many hours of grinding it out when the bulk of Lone on water from Sabine Lake to the Lower Star sows are caught. Laguna Madre. March and especially There’s no question about when a April are the prime trout becomes wall class. A 7-pounder is months for searching out close. An honest 8-pounder is a trophy. trophies. That’s not to Nine’s and 10’s will take your breath away. say heavy specks can’t be LURES And trout in the 12-pound-plus class are caught during February. off the charts awesome. Wallace’s catch proves The current state record trout weighed that. 15.60 pounds. She was 37.25 inches long Most are caught by and was caught on the Lower Laguna grinders, a.k.a. anglers Madre by Bud Rowland. He caught that that fish for hours on incredible fish on a fly. You might say end for that one bite. As that was a freaky catch. He saw the trout an outdoor writer for in about 2 feet of water. Dropped a fly on over 40 years I’ve had her and made the catch. That was on May the opportunity to fish 23, 2002 – definitely a different situation with some of the very Most trophy trout anglers are armed with their go-to trophy than how most heavyweights are caught. best trout fishermen in trout lures, baits that are proven and have produced quality The first recorded state record trout Texas. One thing that I’ve trout over the years in Texas weighed 13 pounds, 9 ounces. noticed about every one She was caught on Baffin Bay by Mike of these guys is that they don’t carry a extra pizazz when it comes to fooling Blackwood on March 16, 1975. That huge assortment of lures. Most are armed solid trout. record lasted until Mike Wallace caught a with one small box that’ll hold about six of That was the case with Wallace, who record breaking 13 pound, 11 ounce trout their go-to trophy trout lures – baits that still holds the state record for the heaviest while fishing Baffin Bay on February 6, are proven, and have produced quality trout ever caught on a conventional rod 1996. She was 33-1/8 inches long. trout over the years. But one other thing and reel. He caught that trout on a Corky, Trophy trout time in Texas is January I’ve noticed is that they are all looking for one of the most famous and most used through April. To be more specific trout the new-lure advantage that has a little trophy trout lures along the Texas coast since the mid-90’s. That particular Corky was chartreuse with a sparkle body. Paul Brown is the originator of the Corky. Several years ago he sold the lure to the L&S Bait Company, who is best known for making MirrOlures. The Corky is now sold under the name of Paul Brown Original Series. Three of the most popular lures in the series are the slow sinking Original, the slow sinking Fat Boy and the Paul Brown Devil. When Brown originally came out with the Corky Wallace used it to catch numerous trout. But it took a good bit of Some proven lures that can produce tweaking to get the slow-sinker to work some wall hogs as trophy trout season just right. The end product is still the best selling big trout lure of all time along the cranks up. Texas coast. Just like any other lure a Corky is just about worthless unless you fish it just

Story and photography by Photo courtesy of Phil Brannan right. The drill is simple. Cast it out, let Robert Sloan Paul’s Unfair Mullet by Unfair Lures is the first mullet bait with exact visual profile and sonic it sink to the right depth and slowly work signatures fish identify with. it up and down in the water column. It’s

february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 11 sort of like fishing a worm for bass - slow The Super Spook Jr. is the key word. Almost all the strikes on is exactly like the this lure will come as the bait is falling. original, except it’s Ditto that for the big time popular 3-1/2 inches long. MirrOlure MirrOdine Suspending The Spook Jr. has Twitchbaits. These are slow sinking lures something akin to that are similar to a Corky, but they have a a cult following. It’s hard body. They are made in various sizes a tough lure to beat and sink rates. A favorite is the 18MR that for one very good is 2-5/8 inches long and can be fished at reason – it produces a depth of 2 to 5 feet. By the way that’s big time blowups and the perfect depth for fishing a Corky as big time numbers of well. Best colors are pink/chartreuse/silver trout 24/7. and chartreuse/silver. The key to getting Over the past these to produce big trout is to fish them few years the One sloooooooow. Knocker Spook Most bites on a Corky or Mirrodine has become quite will be a slight thump, or just dead weight popular. It’s 4-1/2 as you pick up the rod tip. They are tricky inches long and has a The majority of trophy trout are caught by anglers wade fishing lures to fish, but worth their weight in single tungsten rattle rather than from a boat. gold. for a totally different Shortly after Wallace caught the state sound. Without a doubt the three most and innovative. One lure that fits that record he told me something I have fish producing colors are bone/silver, blue/ description is a Paul’s Mullet that’s made never forgotten, and have since put it to chrome and red with a white body. by Unfair Lures. I first used this particular good use on many occasions. One of his The side-to-side action of a Super lure last summer while fishing out of go-to tactics is to use a topwater to find Spook is priceless. But the action of a Getaway Adventures Lodge on the middle big trout, then switch over to the slow- Rebel Jumpin’ Minnow is one that big Laguna Madre. In two days we used this sinking Corky. trout will tear into. The 4-1/2-inch model mullet imitation lure to catch numbers The key is to use a lure that looks and in bone or silver/blue have been favorites of good sized trout and reds. It’s a slow acts like a mullet. During the cold water of trophy trout angles for decades. Unlike sinker, with two treble hooks. The fire months of winter and early spring a mullet the Spook’s walk the dog action, the tiger color pattern seemed to be best. The is the predominant baitfish along the Gulf Jumpin’ Minnow has a sinking tail that razor-sharp trebles have outside barbs coast. If you’re serious about catching a kind of makes it jump out of the water that do a real good job of sticking fish, wall hog tie on a mullet-imitation with a rapid side to side action. like trout, that can have a pretty soft bite and do the grind. There is no doubt that soft plastics at times. You can check them out at www. That takes us to one of the most will catch huge trout when used in the unfairlures.com. popular topwater plugs of all time - right water at the right time. Over the past The last little tip I have for you is this. anywhere you fish along the Gulf Coast. couple of years I’ve noticed that big trout About 100 percent of trophy trout caught That lure is a Super Spook. This plug has fishing experts have leaned towards using in Texas are caught by . Big trout been around since 1939. The original is 5 paddle tail plastics in the 4 to 5 inch range. are just too skittish to approach while inches long. Over the years the original These can be fished on a jig head with an drifting in a boat. Spook has been modified, but just slightly. up down retrieve, or with a steady retrieve. However, let it be said that my personal Last winter I fished a few best is a 10.6 pound trout caught in Sabine times with guide Dwayne Pass while I was in a boat. But more often Lowrey. I’ve known Lowrey than not, wading is the way to go. for years and he is one of the best at catching big trout. One of his go to lures is a Size Does Matter paddle tail in purple with The length of a trout is a good way a chartreuse tail. Last year to determine a specks weight. According on Baffin I saw him whack to TPWD numbers, a 24 inch speck will numerous big trout while weigh about 5 pounds, a 28-incher 7-1/2 working paddle tail jigs along pounds and a 30-incher is roughly 9 to bottom over shell and mud in four to six feet of water. 9-1/2 pounds. The current state record Earlier I mentioned weighed 15.60 pounds, and measured 37.25 inches. The Super Spook has been around since 1939 and the One that some of the best big Knocker version has gained popularity in recent years with trout fishermen are always Any trout measuring over 30 inches anglers fishing for trophy trout. looking for something new is a sure enough a wall hog.

12 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 Just FISHING | Matt Williams elements like bamboo or Merino wool. * A fullface motorcycle helmet The absolute worst is cotton. will provide optimum protection COLD WEATHER FISHING: Dress Dry, Dress Smart “Cotton clothing can absorb moisture and warmth when making long during the day up to 20 percent of its own runs at high speeds in cold weather. weight,” he said. “Damp fabric and moist * If your hands or feet get cold surrounding air will transfer heat away you can’t do much of anything. February typically packs some of the are out. Good quality bibs, jackets, under- restrictive and a whole lot more comfort- from the body 20 times faster than dry Wear full gloves when motoring coldest weather of the year in Texas. It also garments, headwear and footwear are in. able than the outdated stuff. Translation: fabric and surrounding air. to protect your hands from cold brings with it some outstanding fishing All of the gear we use for fishing and Dress right and you can spend quality “If you are wearing cotton clothing wind. Half finger gloves are ideal prospects in fresh and saltwater, alike. other outdoor sports today is way more time on the water or in the woods in nasty next to the skin, it will absorb the mois- while fishing. It is a good idea to One of the best ways to suck the life out technologically advanced than what was conditions without compromising safety ture, and suck the heat out of your body,” have several pairs handy in case of a potentially good wintertime fishing available 20 to 30 years ago, and winter or sacrificing comfort or mobility. he added. “This will leave you feeling one gets wet. trip is to dress inappropriately before you clothing is certainly no exception. In fact, The main thing to remember when it cold and clammy, which will lead to early * Disposable hand warmers leave the dock. It makes no difference how modern cold weather duds are so good comes to dressing for cold days outdoors is tiredness and fatigue.” placed in interior pockets will dis- good the fish are biting. Once you get cold that I would venture to say you can stay that you can never have too many clothes, Mid Layer: The Heat Trap place welcomed heat throughout out there, you’re done. warm on an extremely cold day wearing but you can certainly not have enough. Richards says mid-layer clothing the day. In extreme conditions I’ve learned several lessons about win- a fraction of the clothing that took to stay Jerry Richards of Buford, GA., knows a should be worn over the base layer. Its some hardcore anglers will rely on ter fishing over the years. One of the most toasty a decade ago. thing or two about dressing for fishing primary purposes are to provide a layer adhesive heat wraps for additional valuable is how to dress for it. Not only is modern outdoor clothing in foul weather. Richards is the national of insulation to prevent heat from mov- warmth. Blue jeans, cowboy boots and ball caps warmer, it is also lighter weight, way less sales manager for Gill North America, one ing away from the body while allowing * Hypothermia is always a pos- of world’s leading manufacturers of high moisture to vent. sibility when it is cold outside. Keep quality technical fishing gear. “There is no magic to staying warm: your lifejacket on if you are fishing Mississippi Teen Sentenced For Murder of Texas Bass Pro Like most experts in the field, Richards Trap dry warmed air close to the body,” alone. If your boat doesn’t have a says the main key to staying comfortable Richards said. “The trapped dry air acts boarding ladder, it would be wise A Mississippi man was recently sen- denied the accusations days later as he out there is dressing in three layers in- like double-glazing in a house to keep you to invest in one. tenced to 25 years in prison in connection walked to a court hearing.” cluding a base layer, mid-layer and outer warm. The warmed air can be trapped in * Always carry a full change of The key to staying comfortable when fishing in with the Oct. 2013 shooting death of Texas Now 19, Brown pleaded guilty on Nov. layer, all made from premium materials. fleece, or lofted garments, which are sim- clothes in your boat -- base layer, cold weather is to dress in three layers including a bass pro Jimmy Johnson of Ganado, ac- 16 to second-degree murder in Hinds According to Richards, dressing in poor ilar to sleeping bag materials.” mid-layer and outer layer -- just base layer, mid-layer and outer layer, all made from cording reports from WAPT-16 News in County Circuit Court. He was originally quality clothing or those made from out- Richards stressed that mid-layer cloth- in case you happen to get wet. premium materials. Jackson, Miss. charged with capital murder, the report dated fabrics can cut down on the pleasure ing should be non-absorbing. “The gar- The report says Shaun Brown, who says. of the fishing experience and negatively ment must be highly breathable to allow was 17 at the time, was arrested three Johnson was in Jackson practicing affect performance as well. moisture to pass through,” he said. “This days after the shooting. According to the for a Bassmaster Opens tournament on “Having reliable rain gear that keeps is referred to as moisture vapor transfer.” report, “Jackson police said at the time that nearby Ross Barnett Reservoir. His family you dry all day in the pouring rain goes Outer Layer: The shell that protects in the then-17-year-old confessed to killing said he was shot when he caught someone without saying,” Richards said. “But and out James “Jimmy” Johnson in the parking lot burglarizing his bass boat, according to often not considered, it is what is worn Richards says outer layer is what max- of the Motel 6 off Interstate 55. But Brown the report. underneath that makes the real difference imizes your protection from the elements. starting with the base layer.” This layer should be 100 percent water- Richards shared the following tips on proof, windproof and highly breathable. layering clothing winter fishing: “The principle purpose for the outer Base Layer: Next to Skin layer jacket and chest high trousers is to “Often considered a piece to keep you stop water from getting in, and to contain warm, the base layer’s true function is to the warm air within the mid-layer from keep the skin’s surface dry by moving or escaping,” he said. “The outer layer is often wicking moisture away from the skin,” looked to for keeping warm, and that can he said. “A base layer is essential for not be a practical side effect, but that is not its only staying warm in cold conditions, core function. but is just as important for staying cool “To be effective, this layer must be on hot days; especially when wearing very breathable and capable of keeping mid-layer and breathable waterproof you dry all day in the worst and wet- outer garments. Often overlooked, if you test conditions,” he added. “The jacket are wearing cotton tee’s, jeans, or an old should include a hood and collar system, washed out base layer, a fresh new base protective flaps over the front zipper and Photo courtesy B.A.S.S. layer can be a “night and day” improve- adjustable inner cuffs.” The Mississippi teenager who shot Texas bass pro Jimmy Johnson ment in performance and comfort.” Other Cold Weather Dress Tips (pictured here) in a Motel 6 parking lot in Oct. 2013 in Jackson, Miss. was Richards says it is essential that the * A percentage of your body heat can recently sentenced to 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to second- base layer be made from material that escape through your head unless it kept degree murder, according to reports from WAPT-16 News. does not absorb moisture. The best fabrics covered. It’s also a good idea to protect are polyester woven with natural wicking your neck and ears. 14 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 15 JUST HUNTING | Bill L. Olson ment Areas where staff area surveys have documented significant increases in local Gearing Up For Quail populations.” In the South Texas Plains the TPWD forecast said, “There was excellent car- ryover from last season in many parts of dation Endowed less of other factors. Research on their this region. This broad base of available Professor of Quail ranches found that lack of food and cover breeders combined with the same great Ecology at Texas during drought reduces the number of weather conditions as other regions has Tech University nesting attempts by as much as 80 per- resulted in a strong recovery with many and a leader of the cent while also decreasing the survival of field reports of above average numbers. Quail-Tech Alli- chicks produced by the few nests that are “Similar to the Rolling Plains, large ance who said, attempted, Dabbert said. broods and multiple ages classes have “Quail reproduce Rollins said that sufficient rain is at been commonly observed across the sum- in the summer, least half of the piece of the puzzle for mer. Reports also suggest that our survey and if conditions quail population growth, but management may be an underestimate in several areas are favorable, then is also important. “Rain is definitely the including the Coastal Sand Plain where they can have mul- ace in the deck,” he said. After the wet ranch level surveys confirm above average tiple clutches of spring of 2015, he estimated that 40 per- to excellent numbers. The last time the chicks in a year, cent of the coveys seen on the 4,700-acre This ATV has been tricked out with a high seat, dog boxes, and water supply for the pointers. TPWD survey recorded numbers near and that’s when nonprofit ranch in Fisher County that this level was 1999. you see the pop- works in partnership with Texas A&M “The average number of bobwhites Quail numbers have rebound across the Lone Star State including ulation renewing AgriLife Extension Service and Texas end of three consecutive years of drought Plains have produced a remarkable in- observed per route was 21.1 compared South Texas. itself.” A&M AgriLife Research during the 2015 conditions in both south Texas and the crease over last year’s population. Many to 11.6 last year. This is above the LTM of Quail-Tech is summer were megabroods. Rolling Plains where quail populations reports of a hearty reproductive response 17.5 and is predictive of an above average By all indications quail have made a a partnership between Texas Tech Uni- In the Texas Parks & Wildlife Quail began to show signs of recovery. Good have been received from the region with hunting season for the region as a whole.” substantial recovery across much of the versity and privately owned ranches in a Forecast released in September 2015 hunts were reported in several areas of pairs and nesting activity observed across The real strength of the quail recovery Lone Star State. Most of this recovery has 38-county, 22-million acre area in west reported, “the 2014 season marked the south Texas and a few areas of the Rolling the entire summer. Large broods and occurred in the Trans-Pecos region. TP- occurred in South Texas, Rolling Plains central and north- Plains. Good to excellent hunts were also multiple age classes suggest high chick WD’s forecast said, “In response to excel- and in West Texas. However, Texas has west Texas. The alli- reported in the central Gulf Coastal Prai- survival and re-nesting activity. Bobwhite lent weather conditions, scaled quail have experienced boom to bust periods for de- ance began in 2010 ries where an all-time high was recorded quail numbers have not been recorded this made a strong recovery in just one year’s cades. The key has been receiving enough and currently works by the TPWD 2014 survey. high since 2005 and the species ability time. Drought conditions have definitely moisture to provide suitable nesting habi- with 27 partner “Heading into 2015, excellent late win- to seemingly “exponentially grow” was come to an end in the Trans-Pecos, where tat for bobwhite quail in most of the state, ranches, conduct- ter conditions produced a flush of winter clearly demonstrated this past summer. the desert has been in bloom, green and and blue or scaled quail out west. ing both research greens providing nutrition for hens prior “The average number of bobwhites growing for much of the summer. Over- It seems the boom to bust quail pro- and outreach on the to the nesting season. The core Texas quail observed per route was 38.3 compared to all, field reports indicate extraordinary duction is not a new phenomenon. Ac- properties. hunting regions received frequent rainfall 7.5 last year. This five-fold increase is well scaled quail production and similar to cording to Texas Parks and Wildlife The “This (alliance) events from spring through midsummer above the LTM of 20.2 and is predictive south Texas and the Rolling Plains, large North American Breeding Bird Survey, a has given us a great which produced excellent nesting cover, of a good to excellent year. Public hunting broods and multiple age classes have been U.S. Geological Survey project, has shown Rolling Plains-wide abundant forbs and countless insects. opportunities can be found at the Gene observed suggesting a wide window of a decline in Texas bobwhite breeding picture of what’s Summer temperatures remained below Howe and the Matador Wildlife Manage- nesting opportunity and high chick sur- numbers at a rate of 3.9 percent per year happening, to a the 100 degree mark through the second from 1970 to 2009. certain extent, with week of July. Wildlife biologist Brian Pierce, an quail populations,” The combination of frequent rainfall associate director of the Texas A&M In- Dabbert said. and below average temperatures resulted stitute of Renewable Resources said, “In According to the in an extended window of breeding and Aldo Leopold’s day, experts were saying alliance’s research, nesting opportunity throughout the quail had been declining for 50 years. rainfall and bobwhite Rolling Plains, South Texas and the Trans So that means this decline has been hap- population numbers Pecos. Consequently, the forecast for pening for more than 100 years; this is in the Rolling Plains quail hunting in many areas of Texas is nothing new.” share a significant good to excellent. “If we have rain, we’ll have quail, and if positive correlation. “Looking forward, climatologists are we don’t, we won’t,” said Dr. Dale Rollins, They also found that predicting an El Nino year which may executive director of the Rolling Plains rainfall is a limiting bring another mild wet winter an excellent Quail Research Ranch. factor for bobwhites, breeding conditions heading into the 2016 In a report for Texas Water Resources meaning that their season which could lead to future record and Texas A&M Institute of Renewable populations can only setting survey results.” Natural Resources by Leslie Lee quoted grow so much dur- Timely rains provided good cover for quail to reproduce and help TPWD’s forecast for the Rolling Plains In the Rolling Plains bobwhite quail populations have rebound to levels not seen since 2005 and Dr. Brad Dabbert, the Burnett Foun- ing drought, regard- ensure good quail chick survival. state, “Excellent conditions in the Rolling are providing some excellent hunts.

16 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 17 heart. And this is just the Top prelude to the adrenaline rush the wingshooter ex- FlighT periences of a covey of birds flushed from cover. Just a covey of birds is a thrill, let alone a mega- covey of 25-30 or more birds taking to flight from under foot. Hunting The statewide quail Preserve since 1989 season in Texas continues through February 28 so there is still time to head Pheasant back to the hunting lease, now that deer seasons Chukar A German Shorthaired pointer on point is just the prelude to the adrenaline rush a hunter have closed, to partake in Quail experiences once a covey of quail flush. this revered hunting. Plus now is the time to gear up There are any number of ways to trick out an ATV to provide a minimal impact vehicle to pursue quail. Dove vival. The last time numbers have been of quail hunting in the 60’s and 70’s except for the 2016-2017. Here Waterfowl recorded near this level was 2007. for one — the quail hunter. With the ex- are some suggestions. “The average number of scaled quail tended drought many upland bird hunters If you don’t own a pointing dog, then thorns or cactus spines. can be used for deer season. observed per route was 28.4 compared sold their big hunting rigs and either got find a friend or professional handler to Once the 2016 quail season ends you Let’s continue to pray beneficial rains to 6.0 last year. This well above the LTM rid of their bird dogs or never replaced hunt with — that is until you can acquire will have had some field experience with fall through the quail nesting seasons and of 16.0 and is predictive of a good to the dogs once they passed on. your own brace of pointing dogs. Hunters the ATV and have formulated some ideas that landowners manage their lands for excellent year in the Trans Pecos. Public Plus many quail hunters left the field can enjoy quail hunting without dogs by to share with an aluminum fabricator to the benefit of ground nesting birds. With hunter opportunities can be found at due to low numbers and some are kept spreading maize along senderos along the customize the to your way of hunting. these two ingredients then all wildlife will Elephant Mountain and Black Gap Wild- from the field due to “Father Time.” There edge of brushy openings, but this is not the You can even rig it with a “high seat” that flourish and quail hunters will rejoice. life Management Areas where staff have could well be an entire generation of way to hunt quail. It can help concentrate observed a notable increase in scale quail hunters that have never had the privilege the birds. populations.” to hunt behind a good pointer, see the dog Another suggestion is to get a hunting 30 Years experience in TrophY Deer ManagMenT Given the recovery to date of both get a snoot full of quail scent and wheel to rig. The days of the large full sized, tricked bobs and blues, and with weather forecast a locked-up point. out 4x4 trucks are slowly fading in favor of predicting another favorable year in 2016 Nor have they seen the pointer’s the minimal impact ATV’s. Certainly rig- all of the components seem to be in place bracemate lock up to honor the point is ging a full-sized, short wheel based Super to potentially return to the “glory years” something that thrills every quail hunters’ Duty Crew Cab truck complete with dogs boxes and supplies mounted to where the Day Hunts bed was once affixed is a stylish way to go. Add a couple of seats to the front of the Guided and truck, plus a winch and a hunting party Unguided Hunts of six are ready to hit the field. Sporting Clays However, to go the minimum impact route acquire an ATV like the Polaris Tower Shoots Ranger or similar model from other Annual Memberships manufacturers. For the current season Whether you enjoy an Full Service Facility there is not time to get the ATV to an established program or Corporate Events aluminum fabricator, tricked out and in are just starting out, the field before the season ends. What contact Bob Zaiglin, can be done is a temporary rigging uti- one of the most lizing plastic dog kennels secured to the bed using bungee cords or adjustable repected names in the tie-downs. Carry some water for the wildlife industry at dogs, a crate filled with shells, bird shears, Zaiglin’s Wildlife & and a cooler full of water or sport drinks Resource Managment. and you are ready to work the fields and www.topflighthunting.com prickle pear flats. With this temporary rigging, as well as in the future, make sure Bob Zaiglin, Certified Wildlife Biologist Columbus TX Big truck rigs with chairs in the front for two hunters and custom built dog boxes mounted to the tires are filled with sealant to close off 830.278.8815 (979) 732-9196 the frame is still a stylish way to follow a brace of pointers as they work. any punctures from mesquite and other 18 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 19 sk a dozen bass anglers to as many answers. Probably more. That’s name their Number One bait because there are a passel of lures that will Achoice for early spring fishing work like a charm as winter begins giving and odds are pretty good you will get just way to spring and bass start getting into a “pre-spawn” frame of mind. Just remember. Some baits tend to produce better in certain conditions and situations A look at some good bait choices for pre-spawn largemouths. than others do. What works well at one lake Story and photography by make not be the ticket at Matt Williams another. That’s largely because every lake is different in what is has to offer in terms of habitat. Some switch one day may not even get a second can hear from a considerable distance. that combines the flash and vibration of the action. have gobs of aquatic look on the next. The bait will work just about anywhere a and the profile of a skirted Soft Swim Baits vegetation, whereas Here is the skinny on some good now, but it really shines bright on lakes jig. The hook protrudes from a lead head Swim baits earned their stripes out others contain more early spring bass baits followed by some that have an abundance of hydrilla. with a keeper that allows for changing West and gradually became popular in rock, timber, stumps situations when they might get you bit: The trick is to make a lengthy cast, then skirt colors quickly. A flat blade pivots Texas beginning in the mid-2000s, largely or flooded bushes than Lipless Crankbaits retrieve the bait at a speed just fast enough off the head, which promotes a unique because they catch numbers and big fish, anything else. The lipless crankbait gets top billing to keep it ticking or grabbing the top stalks wobble and tons of vibration that can be alike. Other factors because it is simple to use and highly of grass on the way in without burying felt all the way to the rod tip when the bait The baits come in hard and soft models that come into play effective in a variety of situations. Bass up and fouling. Often times, the bait goes in motion. and some are designed with amazingly are changes in water pros sometimes refer to it as a “monkey tearing free of the grass is what triggers Made for chunking and winding, it’s life-like characteristics intended to make temperature, water level bait” because it is so easy to fish with that the “reaction strike.” a great choice in clear, stained or muddy them simulate everything from bluegills and water clarity as well a monkey could probably catch a bass Several companies make lipless water and works best when retrieved at to crappie, rainbow trout and shad. You as wind direction and with it. crankbaits. The Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap, slow or medium speeds over submerged can find them in sizes ranging three inches velocity. On top of all Elongated in shape with flat sides, the Yo-Zuri Rattlin’ Vibe, Strike King Red grass, around docks or shallow stumps. to a foot long and at varied prices ranging that, a bass’ appetite lipless crankbait has a hollow body cavity Eye Shad and Excalibur One Knocker are The Chatterbait works great right out from a few bucks for a six-pack of soft and attitude can change that contains one or more BB’s that clash among the most popular in sizes ranging of the package or you can modify it by plastic baits to upwards of a $100 for a A suspending jerk bait allows the angler to work the bait stop overnight, seemingly for and clatter as the bait speeds through the 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 ounces. trimming the skirt to about one inch long single, hand-made hard bait. and go, twitching it occasionally, to entice suspended pre- no apparent reason. A water column with a tight wiggle, creating Z Man Chatterbait and threading a small swim bait on the Soft swim baits like the Kick Fish spawners that might be reluctant to chase a moving bait. lure that really trips their an enticing rattling commotion that bass This is essentially a jig with a nose blade hook to give it some bulk and enhance Tail Slapper or Reaction Innovations

20 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 21 of play in early spring. the water. that pre-spawn bass prefer The baits work well Spinnerbaits will work in clear or to use as highways as they when worked slowly over muddy water and in areas with sparse or gravitate towards the shallows. flooded vegetation or heavy cover including assorted types of Suspending Jerkbait crawled through brush, vegetation, wood or rock. You can also This is a hard bodied, bushes, stumps and fish it around docks, underwater ledges, minnow-shaped plug equipped other cover where pre- bridges at varied speeds from slow to fast. with an internal weighting spawn bass often prefer to The lures come in several sizes ranging system that aids in and “stage” and wait for water 1/8 ounce upwards of 2 ounces, with 3/8 causes it to suspend or achieve temperatures in nearby to 3/4 ounce being the most popular neutral buoyancy in the water spawning areas to warm for standard applications. Blades are column when allowed to sit sufficiently. available in three styles, but willowleaf and idle. One of the most Colorado are the most preferred. This allows the angler to deadly styles of crankbaits Willow blades provide flash and work the bait stop and go, during early spring is the give the bait some “lift,” which helps in twitching it occasionally, to square bill. The bait has shallow water situations that involve entice suspended pre-spawners a short, stubby nose bill fishing around grass, brush and other that might be reluctant to chase that is a squared off in cover. The Colorado is favored in deep or a moving bait. front. This prevents the muddy water, because it displaces more Suspending jerk baits are bill from digging in as vibration the bass can see and hear. White, available in different models much as a rounded bill chartreuse/white and chartreuse are color that will suspend at depths from while helping it deflect chart staples. 4-12 feet. These baits typically off of wood and rock Jigs produce best when fished extremely well. There is something about a jig that at around submerged bushes, over Crankbaits come in times brings out the mean streak in big grass beds and along channel every color under the sun. pre-spawn bass like no other. Designed breaks, where big pre-spawn A lipless crank bait is sometimes referred to as a “monkey-bait” During spring, it is hard with a lead head, thick wire hook and bass are prone to gather as they due to the fact that almost anyone, even a monkey could catch to go wrong with crawfish weed guard to prevent it from getting await Mother Nature’s signal to A chatter bait is essentially a jig with a nose blade that combines the flash and vibration of a spinnerbait and fish on it. Red or crawfish colors are excellent early in the year. patterns like red, brown, snagged in even the most gnarly cover, take the game to next level. the profile of a skirted jig. orange and yellow. the jig also comes equipped with a silicone Skinny Dipper have a big following in Spinnerbait or rubber skirt that pulsates wildly as the Texas, mainly because they are relatively Just chunk it, wind it and let the bait is creeped or hopped slowly across inexpensive, easy to fish with and will blades do the rest. The spinnerbait is bottom. Most anglers prefer to dress the catch tons of fish. equipped with a rubber skirt that pulsates jig with some sort of trailer to give it even Both have a paddle tail that thumps and blades that spin on a wire frame more bulk and slow the fall as it descends side-to-side as the bait moves through as it moves through the water. Fish see through the water column. the water column. The baits are intended the flash, hear the sounds and feel the Jigs are great choices for pitching to be fished in combination with a wide vibrations of the spinning blades cutting around stump-lined channels and ditches gap swim bait hook, some of which are pre-rigged with a belly weight to help the bait sink, or you can use a screw-in nose weight. Swim baits don’t displace much sound or vibration, so they tend to produce best in situations where the water is clear enough for the fish to visually see the lure from distance. Many anglers believe wind can be a big help in really clear water, because it breaks up the surface prevents the fish from getting too good of a look at the bait. Crankbait Crankbaits are hard body lures that are designed to dive to depths of 1 to 25 feet. The diving depth is generally dictated by the length and width of the nose bill plus the overall size of the lure. The longer and wider the bill, the deeper the bait will dive. Shallow and medium diving that The square-bill crankbait has a short, stubby nose bill that is squared off in front. It is one of the penetrate depths of 1-10 feet get lots most deadly styles of crank baits during early spring.

22 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 23 SALTWATER JOURNAL | Mark Sosin bucktail with a plastic bait tail attached. The benefit of this lure is that you can Points to Remember work it at almost any depth. Besides, if I were limited to a single lure anywhere in the world, that would be my choice, with or without the tail, in various sizes and weights. I’m old fashioned and have at least two or three different baits in Finally, use the shortest and lightest not fishing braid. The the cooler so that if one doesn’t produce leaders that will do the job. Fluorocarbon answer is simple. I use strikes, you can switch to another. Live is a better choice than monofilament my fingers on the line bait should be frisky. When it gets tired, because it is more difficult for a fish to add additional drag change it and put a fresh one on. You to see. If you are not getting strikes or during different phases can keep the one you removed in the they are few and far between, try using a of the battle. If the fish livewell and use it again when it regains lighter leader. If your leader gets even the surges and suddenly its strength. slightest abrasion from a fish, change it. takes line, the mono Too many bottom fishermen use an With toothy critters, you may have to use may burn my hand, but excessive amount of weight hoping to wire. The preferred rig uses a short length it won’t cut my fingers anchor their bait in one spot. That may of single strand wire in a copper color. down to the bone like work in certain situations, but a better Eliminate as much terminal tackle as you braid will. approach is to use just enough sinker can in your rigs. If you can rig without a A rod holder taught so that your offering holds bottom, but swivel using a knot-to-knot system, that’s me how to set the hook. bounces along in the strike zone. That a better way to go. It took years for me to way, you cover more territory and your The difference between the average learn, but I finally got bait hopefully passes a fish holding in a angler and the serious is a series the message. If you put specific place. of little things put together in a productive a rod in a rod holder If you’re talking to someone who just package. If you are willing to concentrate and a strike occurs, caught fish, he may be hesitant to tell you the whole time you are on the water and When a fish strikes dip your rod tip and point it to where the line enters the water. Wait until study carefully what the where he fished, but he will certainly feel pay attention to details, you will certainly line is taken from the reel before simply lifting the rod tip to set the hook. There is no need for rod holder does. The comfortable if you ask him how deep the catch more fish. lip-ripping hook sets whether with a , J-hook or even jighwads. old method of rearing water was where he had success. back with enough force That’s really the critical information to turn the boat over you need. Fish tend to congregate at isn’t nearly as effective the same depth over a broad area at a as doing nothing. specific point in time. You should also be Whether you are using aware of water temperature as well as the circle hooks or J-hooks, temperature preferences and tolerances the technique is the of the species you seek. Sometimes a If the action changes or an unexpected specie shows up, it is a same. Drop the rod single degree or a fraction of it can make good idea to have a back up rod or two to go too. tip and point the rod a difference. at the spot where the Predators select and attack one victim Catching proves to be much more line enters the water. When you feel at a time. They don’t swim through a fun than simply soaking bait or cranking something pulling line, just lift the rod school of baitfish with their mouths open an artificial. The transition occurs the slowly and the fish should be on. One tip hoping to catch some. They are looking instant you can tease or tempt a fish into worth noting is that when you point the for a victim that is isolated, disabled, or striking. The exhilarating sensation of rod at the spot where the line enters the looks different from the rest of the bait an unseen critter engulfing a bait or the water, hold the rod perfectly still and don’t in the pod. unforgettable sight of an excited gamester move it until line is peeling off the reel. There has to be a trigger mechanism crashing a surface offering cancels out Sometimes, moving the rod can cause a to make a fish strike. I have actually the long periods of boredom waiting for fish to drop the bait. You’ll also find that seen the prey remain motionless and the a bite. With a fish on the line, adrenalin if you attach the hook with a loop knot, predator break off the attack until the prey surges through muscle and thought. The you’ll hook more fish. And, a loop knot moved. Every predator expects its prey to battle is about to begin. on an artificial lure gives the offering more try to escape or at least be unaware of its Setting the drag correctly is critical. action and a better hook up ratio. presence. If a fish is following your bait Using a scale, you want to measure it If you’re fishing dead bait, use the or lure and not striking, try increasing with a straight pull (no bend in the rod). freshest bait you can find for the species the speed as if it were trying to get away. All my lines are monofilament, so I set you seek. Cut bait should be trimmed It pays to keep a backup rod ready that the drag at about 15 percent of the line’s as neatly as possible. Dead baits give off you can cast just in case a species pops up breaking strength. At times, I may go to 20 smell that fish can home in on. Be sure that you didn’t expect to see. My choice of percent. You probably want to know why to change them frequently. It also pays to lures for this outfit is a white, leadheaded

24 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 25 Just Shooting | Kerry O’Day put in ear plugs. The last thing officers The 357 Maximum was an offshoot companies like Coonan with the vision worried about was over penetration and of the 357 Magnum. The Maximum to build something as cool as the semi- Is the 357 Mag Still Alive? having a bullet pass through the bad guy was designed with long range silhouette auto they have built to keep the caliber and hitting a bystander. shooting and handgun hunting in mind. alive. How about hunting? It seems that The 357 Max is longer by hunters believe bigger is better and you ¼ of inch and loaded to a need to have a 460 or 500 Smith to hunt higher pressure to reach I was watching some of my old video loads were real screamers; deer. Now I admit I think a 44 Mag is a a velocity of 2000 feet per tapes the other day (yes I still own tapes), 158 grain bullet traveling better hunting caliber than the 357 Mag, second with light bullets when I came across Magnum Force. This at 1400 feet per second. I but a 357 in the hands of a good shooter and over 1500 feet per is part two of the Dirty Harry series. remember Hi Vel had some will do a great job. second with 180 grain Harry Callahan is using his signature 44 loads that were 125 grain Coonan sent one of their new 357 Mag silhouette bullets. Mag while everyone else is shooting Smith bullets claiming to have a semi-auto pistols for me to play with, so The 357 Maximum was & Wesson Model 19’s in 357 Magnum. velocity of 1600 feet per I figured this would be a perfect time to built by Ruger and Dan It started me thinking who still uses the second. Now these loads load up some of my old 140 grain hollow Wesson in revolvers, as well 357 Mag? would not break the engine point bullets and see if I could take a few as, Thompson in their single At one time the Colt Python model block of a car or break your hill country deer with it. shot pistol. As of right now 19 or Ruger Security Six were the choice wrist, but they were much When I got the pistol in the shop every I don’t know of anyone of police and FBI all around the United hotter than the loads of one of the employees wanted to shoot it. still building the 357 Max States. There was always a fight over today. All of them finished with a smile on their in a handgun which is too which was the better hunting round As lighter and smaller Three different 357 Mags, (top) a Dan Wesson Super Mag in face from the gun. It’s just fun to shoot bad, I shot many deer and the 357 Mag or the 44 Mag. There were revolvers came out like the 357 Max, (center ) a Ruger Blackhawk in 375 Mag, (bottom) a several said. larger animals with mine. several spin off calibers from the 357 Model 19 Smith’s and Ruger 357 Mag Coonan semi auto. When I got serious with the pistol, I If you have a Ruger in this Magnum like the 357 Baines & Davis and Security Six’s, the higher discovered I had to really hold the gun caliber hold on to it, it is a the 357 Maximum. pressure and ultra-high velocity ammo 1400 feet per second. Now these are still tight or it would flip up and I would shoot collector’s item. A little history, the 357 Magnum was had to be tamed down for the lighter guns. plenty powerful loads and they will give high and right. The model I received to So is the 357 Magnum designed in 1935 by Douglas Wesson and Today’s ammo is much slower; 158 grain you over 500 foot pounds of energy for test had fixed sights so I had to live with dead? I doubt it. There The author with a Texas Hill Country cull buck shot with a 357 built on the large Model 27 target frame loads will shoot just over 1200 feet per stopping the bad guys or any whitetail what I had. Shooting off a bench gave me just needs to be more Mag Coonan pistol. revolver of Smith & Wesson. The original second and 125 grain loads will shoot at deer at a reasonable range. two inch groups at 40 yards and printed If you check out the holsters of the in the bulls-eye so I figured I would limit police officers that you encounter it is rare myself to 75 yard shots. to see an officer carrying a revolver. The I was hunting over a feeder from a rifle FBI at one time said the 357 Mag loaded blind so the first shot I had at a cull buck with 125 grain hollow point bullet was the was just over 80 yards. I hit the deer a little best stopping round available for officers. back from where I wanted. The bullet What happened to the best stopping passed through the deer taking out both round made for police to carry? Today, lungs but missing the heart. The buck ran officers are trained to shoot multiple about 70 yards and piled up. times; double tapping is common practice The next day I went to a bow blind in training now days. Also officers prefer and was covered up with big bucks all to carry lighter, less recoiling guns. An morning. There were several nice 8 and officer can carry a 9 mm Glock with 10 point bucks that knew I was there but two extra magazines and will have 36 or didn’t care. That evening I killed an axis more rounds of ammo with him, where doe at just over 40 yards and she was DRT a revolver shooter with two speed loaders (dead right there). will only have 18 rounds. The last day of hunting brought in I also think the practice of reloading another axis doe at 70 yards which also a revolver is a forgotten art. Anyone can fell DRT after being hit with the little 140 reload a 12 shot 9 mm pistol in a matter grain bullet. All in all I would say the 357 of seconds but to reload a six shot 357 Mag Coonan is a good hunting pistol for Mag revolver takes about five seconds and deer sized game. I would love to see how much more training to perfect it. well I could shoot it with a scope on it, One other thing to think about is since my old eyes don’t see open sights noise; a full house load in a 357 Mag well any more. revolver is one loud gun. A 9mm is If there had never been a 357 Magnum much quieter now I don’t want to shoot I don’t think there would have been any either without hearing protection but if 38 Special+P rounds. These rounds were someone is breaking into my house at invented to have a caliber that fell between two in the morning, I don’t have time to the 38 Special and the 357 Mag.

26 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 27 Just FISHING | Brian Hughes which brand and color you we’ll usually fish either really deep or Dash (or two) soy sauce, to taste use, make sure it’s bright so you can really really shallow depending on weather,” Sea salt and cracked black pepper, Winter Whiskers see it well. This allows you to not only said Chad. “In the mornings, early in the to taste watch for the rod tip to drop down (fish month, we’ll look deep, around 20-25 feet 1 pound catfish fillets, cut in strips biting and swimming away from you) but on points & channel edges. But later in the 1 3/4 cups fine cornmeal also to watch for the line to suddenly go month this can change with rising water 3/4 cup all-purpose flour Those words were spoken by Clint numerous small, black slack (fish biting and swimming towards temperatures. If you see warm bluebird 1 ½ teaspoon seasoning Eastwood (as “Dirty” Harry Callahan) spots are present, but may you) and watch for the line to move days with rising temperatures, you’ll find 1 quart vegetable oil for deep frying in the film Magnum Force, and they be obscured in large adults. sideways.” them shallower.” This change can occur in pan, (or called for amount if using have always resonated with me. A man The anal fin has 24-29 soft So with rod and reel, line and hooks in the course of a day closer to the end a deep fryer) should know what he knows, and more rays. selected how does it all come together? of the month when warmer afternoons • In a small bowl, mix buttermilk, broth, importantly, what he doesn’t know. Channel catfish are “With circle hooks, rule number one is are the norm. salt, and pepper. Dip fish in Having said that, I don’t know catfish most abundant in large to keep the line tight at all times. The “Channel cats will be in the same areas mixture, coating thoroughly, and all that well. Sure, I can catch a few on streams with low or hooks work by having pressure applied to as blues, but will move less. So when you set aside to marinate. occasion, but expert? Ha! moderate current. Channel them so if you have slack in the line the find ‘em it is easier to stay with ‘em,” said • In a large mixing bowl, combine the I do know, however, that February cats may be captured on hook does not work until it has pressure Ferguson. While it may be harder to find cornmeal, flour, and seafood is a great time for catfishing in Texas, a wide variety of baits applied. When a fish bites and the rod tip Channel cats, it’s easier to catch a mess seasoning. Add fish to mixture, especially for trophy-sized monsters in including liver, worms, bends down, you typically can pick the rod when you do. Channel cats also move to one fillet at a time, turn and press many of our lakes, so I turned to Chad grasshoppers, shrimp, up and just start reeling. Some anglers will the shallows later than blue catfish, more gently to coat evenly. Ferguson for some guidance. As a chicken, cheese, and also give the rod a good firm tug partway toward the end of the month or early • Heat oil in deep fryer to 375 degrees F catfish guide, Chad has an unparalleled stinkbait, among others. through the retrieve just to make sure the March. • Deep fry fillets until golden brown, Abu Garcia’s 5500 C3 reel is a good match when fishing for reputation for catching not only a lot Undoubtedly, part of the hook is buried well. This is the typical use, It was noted earlier that these fish about 3 minutes. Unless using channel catfish. of catfish, but also for catching really reason for their popularity where the hook does all the work for you make great table fare, so how about a little a commercial-type deep fryer, big catfish. So I asked him about catfish is their delicious flavor when cooked. catfish consistently, and it is also easy to and you just reel in fish.” help getting your “bite” on? fry only a few fillets at a time, in general and catfishing in February Blue Catfish-Ictalurus furcatus, produce excellent numbers of blue catfish However, sometimes the fish lack so they have room to brown specifically. Before we get to Chad though, A.K.A. Hump-back, High-fin blue (and channel cats) that are keeper fish. conviction in their bite. For fish that “lack Blackened Catfish properly. Fish should be slightly I thought a primer on catfish types might Ictalurus is Greek meaning “fish cat”, For trophy blues, December, January, conviction” Chad suggests the following, 4 teaspoons cayenne pepper crisp outside, and moist and flaky be in order. The following is a sampling and furcatus is Latin, meaning “forked”, February and March are what I’d consider “Pick the up and slowly reel 4 teaspoons lemon pepper inside. Drain on paper towels. from TPWD’s website: a reference to the species’ forked tail fin. the best time of year.” the slack out of the line. Sometimes 4 teaspoons garlic powder Channel Catfish—Ictalurus Blue catfish have a forked tail, and are When I asked about the gear to use this alone will start the fish running or 4 teaspoons sea salt Tex-Mex Catfish punctatus, A.K.A. Willow Cat, Forked- sometimes very similar to channel catfish. he suggested, “Most of the successful swimming away and the hook will set 4 teaspoons black pepper 3/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper tail Cat, Fiddler, Spotted Cat, Lady Cat However, only the Rio Grande population catfish anglers I know use circle hooks itself. Keep the fishing rod level with the 2 pounds, catfish fillets 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder Ictalurus is Greek and punctatus is has dark spots on the back and sides. The because they understand how effective water or even angled down with the rod 4 tablespoons butter 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme Latin, meaning “fish cat” and “spotted”, number of rays in the anal fin is typically they are and how to use them correctly. tip pointed towards the water.” If you must 2 cups Italian-style salad dressing 3/4 teaspoon dried cilantro respectively. Channel catfish are easily 30-35, and coloration is usually slate blue Once you’ve learned to understand how set the hook, set it “using a long, sweeping • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 3/4 teaspoon sea salt distinguished from others, except blue on the back, shading to white on the belly. circle hooks work and how to use them motion, a long and deliberate “sweep” of degrees C). Lightly grease a 3/4 teaspoon black pepper catfish, by their deeply forked tail fin. The blue catfish is the largest freshwater correctly, you’ll understand why they’re the fishing rod. Imagine going from the medium baking dish. 1 ½ pounds catfish fillets Unlike flathead catfish, the upper jaw sportfish in Texas, commonly attaining so loved by catfish anglers.” 10:00 to 2:00 position on a clock.” Once • In a shallow, medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup butter (or margarine), melted projects beyond the lower jaw. weights of 20 to 40 pounds, and may reach Pairing the hooks with the right kind you master this technique, you’ll be setting cayenne pepper, lemon pepper, 20 ounces diced tomatoes with green Coloration is olive-brown to slate- weights well in excess of 100 pounds. It is of rod and reel is also important. “The rod circle hooks properly in no time. garlic powder, salt and pepper. chile peppers, partially drained (leave blue on the back and sides, shading to reported that fish exceeding 350 pounds tip needs to flex for the circle hook to work Let’s talk about the bait. “Cut bait is • Brush both sides of catfish fillets some of the packing liquid for the last silvery-white on the belly. Typically, were landed from the Mississippi River well,” he said. “It’s possible to catch catfish one of the best catfish baits available for with butter. Rub fillets with the step, this will prevent drying out) during the late 1800’s. using a rod with a very stiff tip but I’ve blue catfish and larger channel catfish.” cayenne pepper mixture on both • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 Typically, the largest fish are caught found (especially when fishing for smaller Cut bait literally means you are using a cut sides. degrees C). Lightly grease a by trotliners, some of whom have landed blue and channel catfish) that a really stiff piece of a fish as bait. “In most instances • Heat a large heavy skillet over medium- medium baking dish. specimens in excess of 115 pounds. rod tip results in a lot of bites with very the oilier the fish is the better bait it will high heat until really hot. Add • In a medium bowl, mix the cayenne The Texas rod-and-reel record is 121.5 few fish landed. Use a rod with some flex be,” said Ferguson. fillets, and fry approximately pepper, garlic powder, dill weed, pounds. Like the channel cat, the blue in it, and you’ll get great results.” If you’re targeting smaller 1–2 pound 2 minutes on each side, until thyme, salt, and pepper. catfish is considered an excellent food fish. As for the reel he suggests the blue catfish or channel catfish you’ll slightly blackened. • Brush catfish fillets with the butter You may notice the Flathead is missing standard baitcasters like the ABU Garcia would want to use a smaller chunk. For • Arrange blackened fillets in a single (margarine), and dip into the from the list. This is because the flathead Ambassadeur reels, “I prefer the 6000 those targeting larger fish like the trophy layer in the prepared baking dish, spice mixture to coat. bite can be difficult. While flathead cats series Abu Garcia reels for the vast –sized blues, you’ll often want to use a and coat with Italian-style salad • Arrange catfish fillets in the prepared are caught in the winter, very few savvy majority of my fishing though I do use larger piece of bait. Channel cats will also dressing. Bake 30 to 35 minutes baking dish, and bake 30 catfish anglers will target them during the 5500 C3 reels for channel catfish and hit a variety of prepared baits, with the in the preheated oven, until fish minutes in the preheated oven. this time. at times the 7000 series reels for trophy most effective being the smelliest. Before is easily flaked with a fork. Top with the partially drained When visiting with Chad I asked about blues and flatheads.” using any fish for bait, you should check diced tomatoes with green chile Channel cats will hit a variety of prepared February and dead-of-winter fishing. He And the fishing line? “Use hi-visibility the state regulations as well as the lake Fried Catfish—Southern style peppers, and continue baking 10 baits with the most effective being the said, “Winter is the absolute best time here fishing line like Whisker Seeker or Stren specifications on using cut bait. 1/2 cup buttermilk minutes, until fish is easily flaked smelliest. in Texas for catching big monster blue Catfish Monofilament. Regardless of As for finding the fish — “For blues, 1/2 cup chicken broth with a fork.

28 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 29 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69, & 71

“If we are fishing same drill. You’ll want to look for green to fill the cooler we water and mullet. Any active baitfish is a CoastWatch Danno Wise will be searching for good sign there are trout there. drum in feet of water “We’ll catch some big fish in February, over muddy bottom in but you’ve got to be patient. We’ll be areas protected from throwing topwaters and Bass Assassins. the winds. We will fish When we’re throwing Assassins, we’ll February usually means the worst of holding along the drops in February. That but also mangroves, trout, reds, drum and with a bottom rig - be using light jig heads so we can work winter weather. However, this winter has includes the ICW. When I’m fishing along sheepshead. You can always catch fish up 1/2 oz. bullet weight them slow. been mild to say the least, so most Lower the ICW, I’m looking to catch one good there. And, you can always fish, no matter Carolina style. “Even though we’ll be mostly looking and Middle Texas Coast pros are expecting fish in the first five minutes. If I don’t get how hard the wind is blowing. It’s a good “We’ll be fishing for big trout, there will also be some plenty of angling options during the at least one keeper in five minutes, I move. option if you’ve got a hard north or south with live or dead good redfish, especially in the channels. second month of 2016. But, when you catch a keeper, that one fish wind and don’t want to be out in the bay shrimp and we always You can usually find schools of reds in usually leads to a lot more because they’re when it’s rough.” keep casting in the areas like the Humble Channel during really ganged up. February is prime time for targeting same area. Once the February.” Photo courtesy of Capt. Hencho Buitureira Jr. LOWER COAST “If we have high wind, I can guarantee trophy trout in the Lower Laguna Madre, shrimp scent gets in I’ll be able to catch big bull reds off Gas according to the guides at Port Mansfield’s The snook anglers were catching in late fall are still there as they ride out the winter months. the water the drum Well Flats. When that winds blowing 20 to Get-A-Way Adventures Lodge. The key will continue to come MIDDLE COAST 25 and gusty, most people don’t even go to finding big trout this month is finding A good way to start the day is working the to it.” out. Not me. I love fishing in that wind. I’ll muddy bottom where the big trout are small flats on the inside of the spoil islands Corpus Christi-based guide Capt. get up on the shallow bars - just as shallow most likely to be hanging out and feeding. running along the ICW. The waters on the Allen Sifford says he will be fishing in as I can and still float my inside of the spoils usually warm up earlier either the Upper Laguna or Baffin Bay, boat - and catch those big in the day, as they are the first to receive but his game plan for both bays will be reds on a popping cork and direct sunlight. the same. shrimp. Later in the day, as the remainder of “Typically, we’ll fish in four to six “Another thing I do the shallows warm, the fish will spread feet of water over shell,” said Sifford. “If Port Isabel guide Capt. Gencho “JR” that’s different than most out over the flats, although they will never I’m fishing Baffin, I’ll fish a little more Buitureira says the weather will be the key people, is I always use 31- venture too far from the safety of deep structure, but it will pretty much be the to determining where and how he will fish inch leaders under my water. Big topwaters and slow-sinking in February. popping corks - even if I’m plugs will be the best bets for targeting “February is pretty much like January fishing in a foot of water. big trout during February. Redfish will for me,” said Buitureira. “That means I’m That way, when I pop the also still be active during February, going to be picking my spots based on the cork, the sound is ahead of particularly on warm, sunny days between weather. And, of course, the weather can the bait, not right under it. fronts. Under those conditions, look for change a lot in February. “The other option we redfish to move up onto the flats during “If we have no wind, I’ll definitely, have in February is the the midday hours. absolutely be fishing the deep drops for Brownsville Ship Channel. Photo courtesy of Capt. Hencho Buitureira Jr. In Baffin Bay, Capt. Justin Cooper sheepshead, trout, reds, and puppy drum. “We’ll still have lots of Andrea Alvarez from Gulfport Mississippi caught this nice drum of Capt. Carl’s Fishing Adventures says Just about all the channels will have fish snook in the Ship Channel, while fishing with Capt. Hencho Buitureira Jr. angler must decide whether they want quantity or quality in February. “In February I will be fishing two completely different ways,” said Cooper. “I will either be fishing for the large winter trout or to fill the cooler with as much fish as possible depending on what my customers want. In the search for the winter trout I will be wade fishing So much more than a push pole! Baffin Bay and the southern shore of King Ranch, sticking to grass areas three feet or so deep that have deep water nearby. I like using paddle tails because you will get a little more action with a very slow retrieve. Many times a six-inch drop off is all you STIFFY SHAW WING CAVITATION PLATE STIFFY PUSH POLES STIFFY FISHING RODS STIFFY RAM-RODS need to hold fish. The littlest difference in the bottom STIFFY FLOUDER GIG STIFFY FLOUDER LED LIGHT gives you the best chances of catching a Stiffy Hotline (888) 273-7077 | www.stiffypushpoles.com large winter trout. I encourage everyone PREMIER FIBERGLASS SHOP - We can repair anything made of fiberglass material. to get out of the boat and wade fish it’s a whole new world. 30 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 31 Aransas area anglers will mostly be “In February, I will way to locate the fish and just plain catch until day warms and the fish get a little bite as well. I like throwing Super Spook concentrating on Nueces Bay during be doing a lot of sight them. All you need to do is cast out and more active. Jrs in Baby Trout and bone/silver. February. The combination of mud and casting in the back lakes pop a time are two then let it rest. Then “We’ll be targeting all the species — “Also, in the winter, we look for low shell bottom found in Nueces makes for around San Antonio just continue popping, then resting. Keep trout, reds, flounder, drum – and a lot of tides. When we get low tides, low water an attractive winter home for speckled Bay. When the sun is moving and stopping until you find some times we’ll find all of them mixed together levels we get better concentrations of fish trout and redfish. Both of these species out, I will be looking fish. Then, just have fun. This is a great in the back marsh and mucky bottom in certain areas – especially redfish. will be found both around the reefs and for sand pockets that way to fish with kids or someone who areas. Most of our winter fishing will be “Basically, it just makes finding fish over the muddy bottom flats at the back warm up a little faster doesn’t fish a lot. It is always fun to see in back lakes and back marsh. In February, easier.” of the bay. Wade fishing the back end of in the sunlight. This the cork go under and then feel the pull you can usually catch Nueces while throwing topwaters, slow- time of year the water of a fish. a little of everything sinking plugs or soft-plastics is a good way in the back lakes get “There will also be good trout on the in the back marsh. to target big trout. pretty clear. I’ll make reefs in San Antonio Bay. The best way to “I have a couple of Around the reefs, live shrimp or soft- slow drifts, looking for target these fish is to wade slowly, casting favorite soft-plastics plastics will be the best bet, especially reds and casting at sand deep to shallow. You can also do well that time of year. I like Capt. Allen Sifford says he will be fishing in either the Upper for fishermen looking for numbers. The and mud pockets or any Laguna or Baffin Bay, but his game plan for both bays will be the drifting around the reefs with lures or paddletail plastics reefs in Aransas Bay and the deep wells in other good ambush sites same — “typically, I’ll fish in four to six feet of water over shell.” shrimp under popping corks. The main in pumpkinseed/ Corpus Christi Bay are also good options I see. thing is watching the weather. This time chartreuse or plum/ during February. Anglers just looking “My go-to lure in February is a green a foot to two foot of water. The reds and of year, these bays can get deadly fast, so chartreuse. I also like to bend a rod should consider the old 4-inch GULP!, but have been using an drum hang along these banks because it don’t risk going out in bad weather.” throwing a Corky. I’ll Navy base in Ingleside, which usually has Egret in red speckle with green tail. A lot provides lots of cover for baitfish. Port O’Connor guide Capt. Nathan usually throw a Corky a lot of oversize drum hanging around of times, any lures with green tails work. “You should fish this area by drifting Beabout of N&M Sportsman’s Adventures in either chartreuse/ in February. Shrimp and sea lice are the You can also do the same with popping slowly if the wind is right or along says he is expecting some good late winter pearl or black back/ best baits for black drum around the corks and shrimp if you have someone and casting to the shore and up and down fishing in the POC area. silver sides. Usually Naval base. that is not real good with lures. the shoreline. The same type lures will “The weather will be a little colder in we’ll get a handful

Rockport guide Capt. Jim Garrison of “If weather is bad I will be in work in this area. You can also anchor and February,” said Beabout. “We will usually of days where it will Photo courtesy Captain Nathan Beabout Redfish Roper Charters will be spending Guadalupe Bay or Hines Bay. These bays put shrimp, live mullet, or cut bait out be throwing popping corks with lures warm up and stay Captain Nathan Beabout said Most of his winter fishing out of Port much of February in the numerous back have a unique bank around them, most of freeline style and wait for the bite. underneath or soft-plastics with light warm. Then we’ll O’Connor will be in back lakes and back marsh. “In February, you can lakes found along the Middle Coast. it is a mud bank with a sharp drop into “Shrimp under a poping cork is a fun jig head. It will be a really lethargic bite have a small topwater usually catch a little of everything in the back marsh.”

NOW BOOKING for Aaaahh...You’ve Arrived! 2016 Relax, we’ll take care of the details! World Class Fishing Dove & Waterfowl Cast & Blast Inshore & Offshore Private & Corporate Events & Meetings GIVE US A CALL!

32 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 33 Quail: A Remarkable Recovery

s a brisk north wind smacks off on foot to safety. you squarely in the face, one’s It’s now February in Texas, and as Anormal reaction is to avoid another deer hunting season is in the the cold, but that’s not the case while books, sportsmen have an opportunity quail hunting. The incessant search for to celebrate the season by spending that next explosive covey rise keeps one additional time with family and friends comfortably warm as the calories burned pursuing a game bird that in some cases up in the search generates an adequate is rarer than a trophy buck. amount of body heat. Often referred to as the sport of Walking along overgrown, age-old aristocrats, quail hunting is a gentleman’s fence lines, one’s sixth sense dictates the sport often conducted in ideal weather presence of quail, but nothing can prepare conditions. It’s just as much a spectator a hunter for the eruption of these plump sport when well trained dogs are part of birds skyward in their attempt to escape. the hunt as it is a social event. For wing And as this feathered bomb goes off, shooters, this February represents the tail sportsmen with scatter guns shouldered end of a banner year for quail, while for attempt to drop a bird or two before others it is a unique opportunity to test the covey drops out of the sky and gets their shotgun skills on these birds and swallowed up in a sea of brush and dash hopefully return to camp with enough birds to dine on one of nature’s true delicacies. When it comes to bird hunting, the bobwhite reigns as king. The characteristic bobwhite song heard during the spring breeding season dictates its name, and no bird is revered as much as this pear-sized bird in the scatter gun fraternity. This past year was good to the bobwhite. With above average rainfall throughout the spring and summer, quail replenished their numbers as rapidly as a Walmart restocking program on Black Friday. The fact is quail numbers have This might well be the return of the iconic bird, but if continued to decline over the recent not, hunters may as well enjoy it while it lasts. past. Some consider global warming as the culprit, others attribute the decline to habitat loss, while those of us who are Story and photography by Bob Zaiglin forced to weather the severe impacts of ubiquitous drought generally agree that a dearth of rainfall and excessive heat With a surplus of rain throughout the spring and summer, the bobwhite has unquestionably exercised its reproductive might! reduces the chicks’ ability to break out of

34 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 35 days, and over that period the nest is positioned within motts of vegetation (non-fed) areas metabolized fat and has to overcome simply to exist. And as tended by both the male and female. that would provide birds some protection. other body tissue which contributed to quail populations have declined more But even so, the eggs are susceptible They can also be moved from time to mortality. than they have increased over the last 20 to a myriad of dangers, both day and time when avian predators are seen at Shredding, disking, and aerating years, so has the number of quail hunting night. From fire ants to snakes and hogs increasing levels at feed sites. along senderos can also be performed to sportsmen. At one time an estimated and upon occasion deer, it’s surprising Fifty-five gallon drums with removal establish additional edge, which is not 233,000 scatterguns pursued this iconic any eggs hatch at all. And even when lids are ideal seed distributors, especially only attractive but nutritionally beneficial bird, but that number declined to 25,000 the chicks inside those calcified time with six to eight holes 3/8” in diameter to all wildlife, particularly quail and deer. by the 2012-13 hunting season. But capsules are prepared to exit, if humidity equally spaced around the bottom Quail hunters are an optimistic thanks to a surplus amount of rainfall is inadequate, the chicks cannot pipe out approximately one inch above the ground group; they know better than anyone throughout the spring of 2015 that of the hardened egg shell. level. the erratic, nutritional roller-coaster relinquished a copious amount of cover With adequate rainfall, few birds are Another possibly more effective ride from adequate to extremely poor and seed-bearing grasses along with mild required to generate exceptionally high method of sustaining a healthy quail climatic conditions that their favorite bird temperatures, quail are back with reports numbers of offspring. Natality, or birth population or at least increasing survival rate, for quail is high, and with an average of additional birds is to deliver the feed of 12 eggs per nest, it doesn’t take long to the birds. This can be accomplished, to exponentially increase a population, according to Texas Tech researchers, by especially when hens can renest with a slinging feed like milo approximately 60 second clutch. The problem is mortality feet into the brush at a rate of 300 pounds is high, and it’s a biological fact that 80% per mile every two weeks throughout the of the birds born will never reach their year. first birthday. Based on a two-year study conducted The problem is quail are a gregarious recently by researchers at Texas Tech species which means that they eat, sleep, University, when feed was made available and oftentimes die together. Obviously, to quail by slinging it off roadsides, the there are advantages to being gregarious, quail demonstrated an 11 to 22% annual especially when it comes to finding increase in survival compared to birds on food and more importantly spotting non-fed areas. Data collected from birds and avoiding predators. But the major on treatment areas not only experienced problem with being gregarious is that higher survival rates, but body mass when one bird gets a cold, they generally measurements indicated that they had all get a cold, and these birds are quite greater body fat, whereas birds in control fragile. Once again, quail populations have risen and in some cases quadrupled in 2015. This is sensational news for quail hunting enthusiasts, but it’s obvious that drought will return and so will small isolated populations of this incredible bird — so what can sportsmen do other than enjoy good times to insure the future Quail hunting with a well-trained dog is nothing less than awesome. of quail. Obviously, sustaining an increased the very egg that sustains it for 23 days. representing cover from climatic factors number of birds through the spring The good news is rain returned as well as protection from predators, breeding season would be important, and to Texas during the spring of 2015, in particularly those avian predators from this can be accomplished by providing some cases at decimating levels which above. the birds with a supplemental food no one wants to see. But as a result of The fact that water is imperative source. I have always been a proponent the much needed precipitation, remnant for the development of necessary food of providing milo throughout the fall and quail populations demonstrated their sources, and protective cover makes it the winter periods. This can be accomplished reproductive might. ultimate gap to bridge when it comes to by the establishment of hog and coon- How does quail benefit from rain? managing quail populations. Uniquely proof quail feeders strategically positioned Like all wildlife, food cover and water are enough, research indicates that rainfall along select hunting routes. required for survival. Fifty percent of a actually incites calling by the male. A grain like milo not only satisfies quail’s body weight is composed of water. Although egg laying is primarily the quail’s diet, it also concentrates birds, But even more importantly, this six-inch confined to the spring months, it can which would enhance the location of quail tall bird must have an abundance of food, continue into August and sometimes during the hunting season. In order to The provision of a supplemental feed has the likes of insects, weeds, and seed- September if rainfall is adequate. The reduce the probability of predation by been shown to increase survival rates for bearing grasses with that same food source incubation period for a bobwhite is 23 aerial predators, the feeders should be quail.

36 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 37 of second hatches and in some cases third hatches occurring, indicating that the 2015 hunting season could be a banner year for quail. Dale Rollins of the Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch in Fisher County has verified the upswing in quail numbers when he announced an 80% nesting rate for bobwhite and blue quail on the ranch, Texans Are “Talking” . . . referring to it as possibly the highest hatch rate ever recorded. About When it comes to where to pursue the iconic bobwhite, the rolling plains region of West Texas has long been recognized as the most consistent bobwhite producer in the state, but South Texas is not far behind, and based on the ranches I have surveyed from Hebbronville to Uvalde, quail hunters are going to get a sample of TEXAS OUTDOORSJournal the good old days during the 2015 season. And now that deer season is behind us, it’s time to hike along those fence rows and Hunting AND Fishing through those mesquite mottes in search “ I love the new look of I read TOJ from cover to every month! “ “ of what was at one time the ultimate game your covers. cover every month. bird in Texas. That’s great! ” ” Who knows — this might be the ” return of the iconic bird, but if not, we The only thing more enjoyable than bagging a few quail is the delectable meal that follows the may as well enjoy it while it lasts! hunt. Finally, a magazine that “ I like it because it’s about Best saltwater coverage covers Texas like it should “ “ Texas. of any magazine around. Made to go be covered.” ” ” wherever your I’ve cancelled all my Your Lake Roundup quest takes you . . . It’s the best – and most “ “ “ other magazines except even talks about some of useful – gift I’ve ever TOJ. Keep up the good the smaller East Texas received. ” work.” lakes I fish.”

Glad TOJ knows how to “ “Love the new look. “TOJ just keeps getting count to 12!! LOL!” ” better, and better.” Black & Tan Camo

The most accurate ultra-light rifle without compromise Isn’t it time YOU found out

3 A precision firearm designed for ultra- • Custom Built as Light as 4 /4 lbs. what all the talk is about? minimum weight, ultra-minimum recoil, • Customer’s Choice of Caliber and ultimate accuracy. • Guaranteed Accuracy To subscribe, call 1-800-222-4865 (4TOJ) w w w . m g a r m s i n c . c o m | t : 281.821.8282 | i n f o @ m g a r m s i n c . c o m or go online at MG Arms recommends Swarovski Optik for precision long-range optics and is an Authorized Swarovski Dealer. www.texasoutdoorsjournal.com 38MGA-QuestAd-Horz-TOJ.inddTEXAS OUTDOORS 1Journal february5/29/15 1:35 2016 PM february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 39 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69, & 71 He had made a long cast parallel to the dock when the big bass hit. He knew it Lake Roundup was big, but not how big until it jumped. When he got it to the dock, and weighed and measured it, he was ecstatic. Fearing he couldn’t keep it alive to Langmore landed a 13.5 pound usually brings him to the shop,” Jay told enter as a ShareLunker, Grant elected to largemouth while fishing on the Texas me. “She browses around for a while, and enter it as a Catch-and-Release record. Rowing Center dock on Lady Bird Lake then sits down in a chair and waits for He had to grab a jogger to witness the on December 7. It broke the existing lake him if he’s still shopping. Grant’s serious catch. The runner was amazed that the record by half a pound. The record had and extremely knowledgeable about bass placid little downtown lake had produced been an even 13 pounds, caught on March fishing and equipment. He’s a pleasure to such a fish. 18, 2014 by Ken Leonard — the lake’s first wait on. He knows what it takes to catch Certification in several categories is and only ShareLunker, thus far. the big ones. He buys specialized baits pending at press time. Unlike how legend says that the state on the Internet if it’s something we don’t Grant Langmore understands record bass from 1943 – 1980, ironically carry. He caught his 13.5 on a Huddleston conservation ethics. By electing to keep also a 13.5-pounder, caught on Medina 68 Special.” the fish alive and return it to the lake Lake by a fisherman using a cane pole and “Lady Bird Lake has a terrific instead of running the risk of killing it by a minnow from a dock, Grant Langmore population of gizzard and threadfin shad,” waiting to enter it as a ShareLunker, he is a serious and accomplished bass Grant told me. (It also has a good sunfish gave up statewide publicity, a fiberglass fisherman and was using sophisticated base.) “And the bigger bass like big shad. replica, ShareLunker clothing and more. By John Jefferson bass tackle. So you just match the hatch.” As we sat on Photo by John Jefferson Saving the fish meant more to him. And this wasn’t his first largemouth the Rowing Center benches by the water, An intense young fisherman, Grant Langmore studies his retrieve on Lady Bird Lake. At school, he eats lunch with about While bass fishermen in Texas are rodeo. In fact, when the 3:30 bell rings at he pointed out bass busting shad on the seven friends he calls “the fishing bunch.” starting their engines, fishermen in the the end of almost every school day, Grant surface several times. have thought he had caught a ten-inch “11” at the upstream end of the rowing They talk fishing. He has converted them north are still starting their ice augers. and some of his buddies head for the lake. I photographed Grant with the shad. What he caught eats 10 inch shad! dock. I didn’t see it, but can take his word all to bass fishing, and will no doubt New anglers in Texas from the North — He says he fishes there almost every day. Huddleston lure on the end of his line, but He credits Jay McBride for telling for it. ‘Sides that, his father was there as influence others. formerly some of God’s Frozen People — When I arrived at the dock to interview didn’t use that image here since the lure him a number of places to fish, and he a witness. Grant plans to keep fishing, even will be pleasantly surprised that February him, I asked an attendant if she knew was so realistic looking that skeptics might has fished all around both sides of the He tosses the lure, often out to about dreams of maybe someday having his is a great fishing month down south. Grant Langmore. lake. Most of his after-school fishing is 50 or 60 yards, and brings it back in a slow, own tackle, clothing, and motivational The second half of this month ties She looked puzzled. from the bank, but if he has adequate zigzag pattern that entices the fish. Grant company – to get people interested in with the first half of March as the most When I added that transportation, he fishes from a kayak. also fishes jigs and crank baits. He had fishing. productive time of the year for trophy he was 13-years For newcomers unfamiliar with local traded rods with his friend, Augie Gabbay, Sound a little like young Johnny largemouths – the ones 13 pounds old and a heckuva regulations, Lady Bird Lake has prohibited and was making his last cast (or his first Morris or Richard Cabela earlier in life? and over that qualify as TPWD/Toyota fisherman, she said, gasoline motors for many years. That last cast!) that evening with a Huddleston. Wait and see. ShareLukers. The records show it. “Oh! Everybody regulation keeps many bass fishermen Are those the only two months in knows him. He’s at off the lake since they can’t use their big which to catch a large bass? No way. the end of the dock engines. Fishing pressure has consequently That just seems to be the time bass are … fishing.” been considerably less. The lake also has heaviest with eggs. Many are caught after His parents, good bass habitat and has probably mid-March, but a number of them will John and Erika benefitted from Florida bass stockings on have already dropped their eggs, and are Langmore, support Lake Austin, the next lake upriver on the subsequently not as heavy as those still his fishing and Highland Lakes chain. with child. But don’t despair; quite a chauffer him to Grant began fishing with his few largemouths still carry eggs into late the lake and to maternal grandfather, John Bowman, March, April, and now and then a few McBride’s Guns in in Brackenridge Park in San Antonio, in early May. The odds increase against Austin, where he catching perch, Rio Grande cichlids and fisherman with each passing day after the buys most of his small bass. A kayak trip on the Colorado Ides of March, however. equipment. River below Austin a couple of years ago The ShareLunker competition runs Jay McBride provided him his first big bass, a seven- from October 1 to April 30. Only one manages the pounder, caught on a spinning rod. He’s bass had been entered by year’s end. It fishing department been hooked ever since. came from Sam Rayburn. Expect more – at McBride’s and He has now landed three DDs –- bass- perhaps a lot more, this season. told me about speak for double digit largemouths: an But there is one that won’t be entered, Grant’s catch, and 11-pounder, a 12.8 and now the 13.5. And and it’s a great story, one well-worth the how dedicated the those weights aren’t a teenager’s estimates; Photo by Augie Gabbay telling – for a number of reasons. young bass angler he always has a certified scale with him. Photo by John Jefferson A remarkable 8th grader at Austin’s is. Thirteen year-old Grant Langmore with 13.5 pound largemouth from The morning we met, he arrived early Grant Langmore studies his big swim baits to see which one to tie on next. O’Henry Junior High named Grant “His mother Lady Bird Lake in December. and hooked but lost what he called an

40 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 41 The most effective way to explore stretch of shell, I back lakes and marshes during low tide can feel it all and conditions is to use a smaller, shallow draft make notes of this. boat. This type of craft minimizes the Using the push pole Shallow Back Lakes chances of running aground and even if also allows me to that occurs, a couple of anglers can usually notice where slight push these sized boats back into floatable depth changes water depth. occur and shows The use of a poling skiff and a push me exactly how the pole is the stealthiest means of exploring guts and channels the shallows during low tides and gives running into these “Savvy” anglers the most mobility while revealing places lay out. In signifcant information about the area’s some situations the bottom composition. main creek or gut Captain Kevin Shaw, owner of Fibertex running into a lake & Supply Inc. and Stiffy Brand Products may only be about says he prefers to completely shut down two feet wide. I can his outboard motor and pole into the pole my skiff right marsh or back lake when exploring an down the middle area for the first time. of the gut creating “What I’ve found to work the best a track on my GPS when learning a new shallow area or back that I can use to lake is to shut down my motor and start run into the area poling from the time I begin to enter the later on using my new section of water,” he confessed. “I’ll outboard. When make sure my GPS is on and recording a water levels rise it track while I pole my skiff into the lake may appear that as I begin to explore all of the different the entrance to the regions of the area.” lake is 15 feet wide, Shaw says this strategy not only allows even though I have Learn back lakes and marshes now and him to safely navigate an unfamiliar area learned with my without causing damage to his boat, push pole that the benefit when conditions warm this spring. but it also educates him on the bottom deepest water for composition as well where guts, channels my prop to run is Aluminum boats are excellent choices when navigating and fishing and creeks are located. only two feet wide. the back lakes. Story and photography by Nate Skinner “Poling into and around new marshes, That’s where I’ll bayous, and lakes, I can feel every aspect want to keep my boat when I’m running levels will rise and return to normal of the bottom. Whether there is a wide open.” he explains. heights in the spring doesn’t mean fish will transition from sand to mud, or a small Shaw uses the same information he stage up differently in these areas. They Photo by Scott Sommerlatte gathers about are going to use the same travel corridors navigating an in and out of the marsh. Knowing the area to make finer details of how these paths lay out hallow water and February might a frigid month, with very few days how to approach them by understanding predictions shows anglers how to approach the given not seem like they “go together.” between weather systems is why water the travel corridors fish use as they move about how fish area.” Shaw informs. SThe second month of the year temperatures will remain low along with in and out of the shallows. will travel and Anglers without access to a poling skiff is often one of the coldest, and fish are tides. Some of the lowest tides of the year The most productive and safest time feed within the can still make use of a push pole in just usually found stacked in their deep winter will be produced from strong northwest window to begin exploring back lakes and marshes and about any lightweight, shallow draft flats holes instead of basking in the skinny winds. marshes is a day or two after the passage back lakes. boat. Many of today’s center console bay waters of back lakes and marshes. As these fronts blow the secrets of of a cold front. Once the winds have “A lot of boats can be maneuvered with a push pole Despite the fact that the next 29 marshes and back lakes are revealed. diminished anglers will have about a 24 to times, fish are plus using this tool can often save time days (Yes, it is a leap year) may not lend Shallow reefs, bars, and flats become 48 hour window to explore shallow areas going to use and money. themselves towards the best shallow water exposed while only deep guts, creeks, during the lowest of tides produced by the same guts, Some anglers may be inclined to idle fishing opportunities in 2016, they will and bayous running in and out as well the frontal system’s northwesterly winds creeks, and into an area with an outboard or ease in offer anglers the best window of time for as through the back lakes will be holding before water levels begin to rise back to channels that using a trolling motor. Not only is this scouting and exploring back lakes and water. normal. During the first couple of days anglers will strategy not as stealthy as using a push marshes that will soon be teeming with Anglers willing to put forth the effort after a front passes temperatures should use to run in pole, it also provides an opportunity fish as springtime warm weather is rapidly to run and explore these areas under warm as typically sunny, high-pressure and out of the for damage to be done to a boat and it’s approaching. these conditions can learn not only how conditions will provide a pleasant day on Low tides produced by cold fronts will reveal the secrets of the marsh like shallows. Just equipment. Strong cold fronts make February to safely navigate the back lakes, but also the water. these exposed reefs and channels in this back lake. because water Many marshes and back lakes along

42 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 43 the Texas Coast contain uncharted shallow from shallow shell reefs and bars,” says the marsh at a time and take note of where oyster reefs that can wreak havoc on both Kersh, “Plus they are relatively easy to guts and channels are and then where Back Lake Exploration trolling motor and outboard props. Also move by a couple of people if they have shallow areas and reefs lay out. Channels Check List if these motors are a boat’s only means to be drug off of a shoal or shallow will appear as dark narrow stretches of of mobility and they become damaged, structure.” water, while shallow flats appear as a 1. GPS and Handheld GPS to create anglers could find themselves stuck in Besides using an aluminum boat, lighter green to tan color on the satellite valuable tracks and navigation points some remote area. Kersh says anglers navigating back lakes images.” 2. Waders/wading boots in case Having a push pole on board when for the first time should never come above Kersh says he will drop pins on anglers have to get out of the boat to exploring shallow areas is a no brainer. an idle until they learn where they can different structure and channels in the push the vessel The use of one will reveal where shell reefs and cannot go. lake he is learning on Google Earth and 3. Push Pole are before a prop is run on top of them “If you can idle into an area then you then transfer their GPS coordinates to his 4. Cell Phone in case the vessel in use and can help anglers push themselves out can typically get out,” he says, “But if you unit on his boat. becomes stuck of “skinny” situations. come in on plane and then stick the boat “When I do this I’ve already got a Anglers choosing to explore back lake in extremely shallow water, there’s a good relatively close track for safe navigation 5. Notes taken about the area from areas without a push pole should use chance you’re going to find yourself in in and around the area,” he explains. Google Earth extreme caution and avoid coming above trouble.” “Then I can go in with my boat and fine an idle when entering an area for the Kersh says he does a lot of learning tune the track on my GPS and make sure on my computer with my boat once I’m first time. Captain Kendal Kersh of Pure about new back lake areas at home before what I found on Google Earth is actually actually on the water.” Salt Adventures suggests using a small he ever explores them in a boat. the same. Although weather conditions at times aluminum boat when learning to run and “Google Earth has become a valuable “This saves me a lot of time and fuel. are less than desirable, February is the fish the marsh. tool for me when learning new areas,” he Google Earth get’s me close and then I can month for anglers to begin scouting and “Aluminum boats can take a beating says. “I like to focus on a small portion of double check and confirm what I found learning the back lakes or marshes of the Lone Star State. Spring is fast approaching and with it will come warmer waters that will flood these shallow areas. These back Stiffy Anchor lake regions will be teeming with fish providing out-of-the-wind options for Scouting the back lakes now will ensure you will catch fish like this beautiful red caught by The Stiffy Ramrod is a great tool stake out a boat in a safe water depth, an- angle down wind in order to preserve the anglers as the spring action heats up. Captain Kendal Kersh when springtime temperatures arrive. to have on board when exploring the choring it in place. A push pole can also be structural integrity of the tool. The length marsh. At times the areas of water in used as a sort of “stake out stick.” Because of the push pole allows it to load up like a which a boat can float may be very the push pole is hollow, Kevin Shaw sug- fishing rod, bending at the top while the narrow and the ramrod can be used to gests shoving the push pole at a 30 degree bottom holds fast in the mud.

Photo courtesy of Scott Sommerlatte Shoving a push pole into the soft bottom at a 30 degree angle will help hold a boat when an angler decides to get out and wade fish an area.

44 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 45 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69, & 71 I know. His knowledge of trophy bass is baitfish this time of year,” Mark said. “If for working the outter edges. extensive, and he doesn’t mind sharing. you’re a fan try a 4 ½ inch to 5 Later in the month you’ll want to Lake Roundup “Lake Fork trophy bass are a little inch swimbait with a one-eighth or one- move closer to the creeks, just inside the different,” he says. “They act differently quarter ounce weighted hook. I like to mouths, following the travel routes of the than what we’ve come to expect from throw it out and let it sink, then I’ll move it bass. Keep working the same lures along Florida-strain bass on other lakes.” a little faster than you might think I would. these routes. to learn, or a lot of specialized techniques is low for March, so it was more like An example of this is their activity For most of the year the slow approach is You might also fish the “Mini” to catch fish. February when we caught the fish. We during periods of inclement weather. The the key, however, we change it up a little Carolina-rig, which consists of a small NORTH TEXAS For trophy bass start with jigs in ½ were working a jerkbait over deep water Florida bass is considered to be a warm in February. (3/16- ¼ ounce) weight and shorter and ¼ ounce, in black/blue, green/brown, when she hit”. As a matter of fact that is water/warm weather species. Happy in “At the end of the month, I’ll be using leader of about 12- 18 inches. Lizards blue/purple or chartreuse/pepper colors. his number one pattern for winter bassing. mild temperatures but known to clam up Flukes or Senkos by late February in three and Kreature baits perform quite well on Toss these around the bigger trees along “The two main baits will be a tight when the weather turns nasty. to five feet of water, either on a this rig. the main channel on the west side of the suspending jerk bait, the old kind, not “Not on Lake Fork,” says Stevenson. with no weight, or wacky rigged.” Mark lake, in front of the island, and where it the new soft style, and a ‘Bama rig,” he “Many times I’ve seen the biggest fish turn will spend a lot of time in the creeks, plays out into the northern shallow water. confessed. “In the jerkbait I want a bigger on during in what we would consider bad where fish are looking for something to These are the travel routes bass will use to bait, like the Lucky Craft Pointer or the weather. They seem almost to feed out eat before spawning, and he’ll make a lot EAST TEXAS move to the spawning grounds. Just flip Berkley Cutter 110+ in firetiger or shad of anger.” of casts. “I’m searching for active fish so the edges and stay with it all day. colors. To start your day, begin in deeper I don’t think fishing really slow is that For those that prefer the Texas-rigged “It’s important to fish with about 12 water. “Use a with a long productive. I like to cover water and find worm, use a 10” Berkley Power Worm pound test to get the bait down where you (4-5 foot) leader, 1 oz. weight, and full the feeding fish. Once we find ‘em we’ll By Brian Hughes in blue fleck, or red shad, a Mann’s Jelly want it,” he continued. And try to fish sized fluke, Mark advises. “We’ll also use slow down a little, but I like to make a lot Worm in grape, or one of the jumbo around five to six feet deep over anywhere a 10” worm, because we can catch double of casts in a day” ribbed worms in those colors. The from 12 to 22 feet of water. That big bass digit fish that way.” While it’s a slow way Crappie at Fork will still be by the February is trophy fish time in Texas. majority of the big bass activity will be was at around 15 feet deep, but the boat to start the day, Stevenson believes it will dam early in the month, moving to the Yes, I know the ShareLunker program on the northwest portion of the lake, but was over 24 feet of water”. Generally his be worth the wait. stumps in the creeks around 12-18 feet opens in October. Plus the state record don’t rule out the main lake points and fish will be suspended around some kind As for HOW he fishes the rig, “Rip deep later in the month. Remember, until bass was caught in January, while the other coves as potential producers. The of rocks on the main lake, maybe a point, the weight way off the bottom and then the last day of February, you must keep previous record bass, “Ethel”, was caught cove between the dam and fishing pier or pond dam. drop it right back down,” he suggests. “Be your first twenty-five crappie, regardless in November by Texas Freshwater Fishing has an old brood pond that has produced His second weapon in the big bass aggressive with the upward motion and of the length. By Matt Williams Hall of Fame member Mark Stevenson. many 10 pound-plus fish in the early wars is the Alabama rig, fished in the same let the bait settle back naturally. This just ATHENS — Lake Athens can hardly And the latest really big bass, Shannon portion of the month. Big bass will stage locations. “We’ll alternate at each location drives those really big fish crazy.” be called a trophy bass lake. At least NACOGDOCHES — If you like to fish Elvington’s 15.18 new lake record from there waiting to move to the back of the just to be sure,” he explained. “I may have As the day warms (if indeed it does), that’s what most people thought until for bass, this is one sweet little lake that is Ray Roberts, was caught in March. So it cove to spawn. one client working the jerkbait and one Mark heads a little shallower, watching the last couple of years. On what was a well worth the trip this month. At 2,200 would appear a monster fish could come I would never say you won’t catch with the ‘Bama rig, or we’ll try the jerkbait water temperature. “When water temps phenomenal day for the ShareLunker acres, it’s not too big for a small boat and any time of year in Texas. a trophy on a ‘Trap, spinnerbait, hard first, making sure to try the other before creep into the 50s, usually mid-February, program in 2015, which saw three lunkers plenty spacious enough for full size rigs. Some of those fish were caught in very jerkbait, or deep divers, because you can we move on.” I like to find staging areas,” he says. “I’ll be entered, a 12.94-pound largemouth was It’s loaded with quality fish, too. late January, or very early March. With do just that. I just believe the jig and Texas “Count it down to a foot or two off starting half-way back in creeks, looking landed at Lake Athens by Robert Adams of During February is when Lake Nac Texas weather they could have come a few rig provide a better chance. A Fliptail the bottom and reel slowly,” he continued. for leftover grass, or even some new grass. Mineral Wells. Although the fish was just bass get into a pre-spawn mode. While days later, or earlier, which would have Floating lizard in black/blue, fished “It’ll rise through the water column as it We’re looking for water five to six feet shy of the 13.00 minimum for entry the good numbers of buck bass may be been February. I consider February trophy weightless, can produce some big fish. comes back to the boat.” deep, with grass six to eight inches off the bass was a ShareLunker the previous year, rummaging around in the shallows early time simply because most anglers will be The key to catching a big bass on Purtis While these are the two main tactics he bottom. You can’t believe how many fish a when it weighed 13.67. The bass had an in the month, the bigger females will looking for big bass starting in February is much the same as any other lake. Putting will employ, Golden is by no means a one hundred yards of that will hold.” internal ShareLunker tag implanted into probably be stacked in creeks and drains each year. in time on the water cannot be matched (or two) trick pony. “I like to jig fish in the You’ll want to fish moving baits like it after it was caught on January 25, 2014 at mid-range to shallow depths or roving Coupled with the beginning of the by any “magic” lure, or any technique. The timber myself. If the clients are up for it, a squarebill crankbait in chartreuse, or a by Frank Kirk. Not only does this show over grass flats as they await Mother spawning period for bass and pent up only thing more effective than lots of time we’ll spend a lot of time tossing a black/ ‘Trap-style bait in red, or black/chrome. how well catch-and-release works, it also Nature’s call to spawning beds. “cabin fever” away from the lake will cause casting is luck. blue jig” he says. He likes a really bright Don’t forget the old-school jerkbaits, makes one think about fishing Athens Two of the best baits you can throw many to make their first fishing trip of the RAY ROBERTS — Since last years lake blue color like the Zoom Sapphire Blue. the hard-body, treble hook kind. The for big bass. this month are a square bill crank bait year in February. A fish of a lifetime may record catch came out of his boat, guide One concern anglers have had about Smithwick Rogue in the gold, black, Boat docks abound on the lake and and Rat-L-Trap. They will work best when be just a cast away. Dannie Golden has been inundated Ray Roberts was how the flooding of orange color combination is an old stand- that is a natural temptation for bass fished over submerged hydrilla beds and Bass are not the only trophies available. with phone calls. “My March is already early 2015 would affect the lake. “The by that still produces. “It’ll catch really fishermen. Look to the deeper docks early lily pad stubble at the lake’s upper reaches As noted in this months “Just Fishing” completely booked,” he said. “So good high water from last year really helped the big fish and it’s a lot of fun to fish. Just be in the month, near the creeks leading to and in any number of feeder creeks. column, trophy catfish will also be on news travels fast.” Of course, he can’t lake, small fish are everywhere. It doesn’t careful when you go to lip that fish or he’ll spawning areas. Bass will stage at the edges Potential sweet spots include distinctive anglers’ menu. guarantee a fish over 10 pounds, and matter if you’re for white bass deep catch you too.” of the docks waiting for warmer water channel swings and underwater sloughs PURTIS CREEK — This lake was certainly not a 15.18 like Elvington caught. or running spinnerbaits shallow, you’re For the spinnerbait aficionado, the temps, before moving into the creeks to that provide a slight depth change. conceived by TPWD as a trophy bass “We’d actually caught several big bass going to catch the little guys. It was tough half-ounce Johnsons spinner baits in red spawn. Some of the better areas are creeks and lake. It offers many anglers their best before that one over the preceding days, for a while last year, but it is great for the shad and also chartreuse with a white and Junebug lizards, red shad worms and pockets found along the lake’s northwest chance at a bass over 10 pounds because a few were over 10 pounds,” said Golden. future of the lake”. a gold blade will catch February bass. “I black/blue jigs are good choices for the shoreline. These areas are protected from it is so small, (365 ac.) and shallow (25’ at Describing the conditions he said, FORK — Mark Stevenson has been use the double willow-leaf for flash and inner dock work, while ‘traps in red, chilly north winds, which means water its deepest), that it does not take a lifetime “The water temp was 45 degrees which guiding on Lake Fork as long as anybody bulk, which mimics the yellow bass and chrome blue, and chartreuse/red are good temperatures will be slightly warmer after

46 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 47 few days of warm sunshine. channel. February is typically the month when bass are going to still be locked into pre- around Dallas and the lake has stayed Livingston white bass begin stampeding Additionally, there should be plenty PALESTINE — Lake Palestine guide the annual white bass spawning run kicks spawn frame of mind. It’s what they will pretty muddy all winter long. If that’s up the Trinity River bottleneck to partake of the bass still schooled up on deeper Ricky Vandergriff says February is the into high gear on the Sabine. The fishing is be relating to that is questionable. still the case in February the bass fishing in the annual spawning run. main lake points and other structure. bewitching month for big bass on his always best around underwater sandbars “Everything is going to be water level is going to be way off from what it would The fish make huge moves in giant Catch these fish by marking them on a home lake. If you want to get in on and channel swings when the river is and weather based ,” says TPWD be if it were clear.” schools that can number well into the depth finder and casting Alabama rigs the party, the north end of the lake is inside its banks and rocking along at a biologist Todd Driscoll of Brookeland. Like most locals, Dearman is hopeful thousands. But that’s not the only reason or Carolina rigs or fishing vertical with where you want to be. More specifically, normal clip. Conversely, the action is at its “There is a little hydrilla, but it’s not going the water will have cleared. If that’s the the white bass run is considered by many spoons and drop shots. Vandergriff advises keying on areas like worst during flood conditions that allows to be much of a player.” case, creeks and back water sloughs at the to be one of freshwater fishing’s greatest Crappie fishing prospects are going Kickapoo Creek, the Neches River, Old the fish to scatter into the adjacent woods. With the absence of grass, Driscoll says lake’s upper reaches above the Highway shows. to be best around main lake brush piles Folks Playground any number of pockets The Sabine produces big numbers terrestrial vegetation like willows a buck 190 Bridge are definitely going to be White bass, also referred to as sand in 20-25 feet of water. Later in month, and underwater sloughs. of whites weighing upwards of two brush could be a factor, but only if the worth a look. To refine the search the bass, are gluttons when the dinner bell as surface temperatures begin nudging “Those are always hot areas in pounds this time of year and fish lake gets about a foot or more high. That guide suggests checking small drainages, rings. Get on the right spot and it possible the upper 50s, look for concentrations February,” he said. “We could actually have nudging the three-pound mark are not would put at least three feet of water in ditches and canals that stem off the main to sack up a 25-fish limit in as many casts. of pre-spawners to begin showing up some fish on beds up there toward the uncommon. Most are caught on 1/4 ounce the bushes. If that happens, and there is a feeder creeks. Fishing the Trinity is always best when around brush piles in 12-16 feet and along end of the month if we get some warmer Roadrunners, small spinners, crankbaits good chance it will, flipping in the bushes Bass use the cuts as travel routes to the river is low and green. It keeps the fish around channels at similar depths as they weather. Otherwise, it’s going to be mostly or live baits like crawfish or shiners. The up north could be big deal, especially if we their shallow playgrounds. Look for confined to the main river and the creek begin making the move towards shallower a pre-spawn deal with good numbers of fishing can be good anywhere above the get some warm weather. concentrations of fish around channel channels that feed it, thus making them spawning flats. fish nosing around in the shallows.” lake, but one of the better known stretches “You’re also going to have a lot of fish swings and wood cover such as stumps easier to find. CONROE — If you’re after a lunker Vandergriff says any number of baits runs from the Logansport bridge north to staging along drains and barren points in and brush. Some good creeks to check Anglers should find schools of whites largemouth, this is arguably the best will produce. A jig/pork combo is his Deadwood and northward to a rocky area 10-15 feet of water,” Driscoll said. “That’s out are Carolina, Kickapoo, White Rock, from the headwaters of the 90,000-acre option around for Houstonians on a tight favorite with probing around stumps known as “The Shoals.” going to scatter the fish out more and Harmon and Penwaugh. impoundment all the way to the State time schedule. Located just a short drive along the edges of Kickapoo. When If you’re planning a trip to the Sabine make them harder to find. I’m guessing Dearman will use any number of Highway 7 Bridge crossing between north of the big city, Conroe has a history casting around flats and sloughs in the this month it would be wise to check the that offshore brush piles also could come baits. A white/chartreuse Strike King Crockett and Midway. The fish will of kicking out big fish in early spring. backs of pockets he likes a spinnerbait or river flows ahead of time. The folks at into play because of the lack of hydrilla.” spinnerbait is an old horse in the stable hit assorted baits, but a 1/4-ounce “It’s one of my favorite months, bladed jig. River Ridge campground (riverridgetx. Fishing guide Tommy Martin of or a jig/pork combo and a medium diving Roadrunner rigged on ultra-light gear is especially for big bass,” says guide Butch Flat Creek at mid-lake is another com) have a private boat ramp, guides Hemphill pointed to deeper flats around crankbait in a firetiger or crawfish pattern. tough to beat when the spawn is going at Terpe. “They won’t necessarily be up area with plenty of big fish potential in and lodging and are a great source for Coleman Bay, Caney Creek, Black Forest, February also is the month when a fever pitch. shallow spawning. But they’ll be up there February. Vandergriff says he’ll target current information regarding river flow Mud Creek and the Canyons as good nosing around, especially once we start stump rows, sloughs and channel breaks and fishing action. places probe for bass in 12-15 of water. getting a few days of warm sunshine to using spinnerbaits, jig and lizards. On the main lake, guide Tommy Some of his go-to baits include Carolina warm the surface temps a few degrees.” Crappie fishing will be exceptional in Martin expects black bass to be locked in rigs, crankbaits and spinnerbaits (slow Terpe says bridge rip rap is always a February as pre-spawn fish stack around a pre-spawn mode from north to south. rolling). Swim jigs also could be effective good place to look this time of year. There deeper structure en route to shallower “There are going to be a bunch of in the event they gravitate to flooded are several bridges that cross the lake, and spawning flats. Vandergriff says the fishing setting up around staging areas cover. “It’s going to be wide open,” Martin they are all prone to hold fish during early Highway 155 bridge pilings will produce in 10-20 feet of water, real close to the said. “If we happen to get some warm spring. “Some of the biggest bass of the plenty of limits this month. You will also shallower flats where they will spawn in weather these fish are really going to month are caught there,” he says. find fish holding around the big cedars March and April,” Martin said. “We don’t be pulling into the drains and moving A high percentage of them are caught in the vicinity of the dam in about 30 have a lot of grass (hydrilla) in the lake towards spawning areas, especially from on crankbaits, the guide says. “It’s hard to feet of water. right now, so I look for them to be hanging the mid-lake area north. It’s a good month go wrong with a crankbait,” Terpe said. “A Another good bet is channel cat. around drains, channels and long, main for big fish if we get the right conditions.” shallow diving square bill or Rat-L-Trap Palestine is loaded with whiskered fish, lake points from about mid-lake to the February also is the month when the can be real good after warming trend. It’s and limits are most plentiful around north.” meat of the white bass run gets going up also a good idea to have medium diver tied humps and baited holes in water ranging At the lower end of the lake Martin the Angelina River, which feeds the big on to probe around in 8-10 feet of water.” 13-14 feet deep baited holes. Vandergriff says there is some hydrilla re-established lake from the north end. Good fishing can Some other good bait choices include prefers to bait his holes using range cubes. in 10-15 feet that the bass will be utilizing be found from Kingtown north to U.S. 59 the spinnerbait, Chatterbait and jig/craw Soured grain like maize, chicken scratch as they stage for the spawn. The better bridge between Nacogdoches and Lufkin. combo. or corn also are good choices. stuff on the Texas side is located south This is close-quarters fishing, especially In addition rip rap, Terpe suggests TOLEDO BEND — Anglers who pay a of Mill Creek; on the Louisiana side, the north of Estes Lake. If you own a flat fishing around some of the deeper docks visit to T-Bend this month are likely to hydrilla is most plentiful from Toro Bay bottom boat, it would wise to use it and with brush. Offshore brush piles and main find water levels at full pool or close to south to the dam. leave the big rig at home. lake structure like points, pond dams and it after big rains upstream sent a steady The guide said lipless crankbaits, LIVINGSTON — February has a history humps in deeper water should be holding flow of water rolling down the Sabine square bills and Carolina rigs will be good of being “the month” for big bass on Lake some good numbers of pre-spawn fish, River through much of December and bets around the grass. When targeting Livingston. Whether or not it will happen as well. on into the New Year. The lake as of this hard structure farther north he prefers an again in 2016 is going to hinge heavily on Conroe channel cat also will be a writing was about six inches high and on umbrella rig, Carolina rig, slow rolling a water levels and water clarity. good bet this month. The guide suggests a rise following the big post-Christmas spinnerbait or casting a medium-diving “If the lake gets high and muddy its soaking cheese or punch bait over baited storms that dumped several inches of rain crankbait. going to make things tough,” said guide holes in water around 20-25 feet deep in on northeast Texas and spawned several SAM RAYBURN — No secrets, here. Randy Dearman of Onalaska. “They had the vicinity of the old San Jacinto River dangerous tornadoes. Barring a January heat wave, Sam Rayburn a really wet November and December up

48 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 49 s January fades to February, changes some of the trophy trout chasers up and “rules” regarding big Adown the Texas coast begin to trout fishing, some of WINTER OR NOT, get antsy. Visions of methodically stalking the old adages will still sow specks with big topwater and slow hold true even in a mild sinking plugs on cold, dreary days fill their weather winter. For heads. After all, big trout hunters know one, muddy bottom that the best fishing is often accompanied areas will still attract by the worst weather. the majority of fish. As But, what happens when there is no usual, the main reason winter. Such seems to be the case this year, fish seek out muddy HERE THEY COME as, at least at the time this magazine went bottom areas during February 2016 may be the best opportunity for most fishermen to to print, the winter weather had been mild winter is warmth. catch a bragging-size speckled trout. to say the least. After all, it isn’t the cold Muddy bottoms tend weather that triggers big trout activity, it to retain heat longer is the time of year. than sand bottoms, so February is when trout begin their the water temperature pre-spawn routine. That will happen over mud will be both Story and photography by regardless of the weather. So, whether it is warmer and more warm or cold, big trout always come out stable. Anglers must Danno Wise during February. In fact, warm winters remember that even a often produce more opportunities for mild February is still inshore anglers to catch trophy trout. cooler than summer This could be at least partially due to the and fall months. So, comfort level of fishermen, as even the the fish will still be most die-hard trophy trout fanatics are seeking the warmth more comfortable and more easily able to afforded them by focus in 70-degree weather as opposed to muddy bottom flats. 40-degree temperatures. The other thing However, the warmer weather and that will attract trout Deep holes and mud bottoms are typical winter haunts for trophy water also make the fish more comfortable. to these muddy bottom trout, but when temperatures warm these big sow trout can be Fish are always more aggressive when they areas is the availability found on shallow flats. are warmer, whether that is in February of prey. Like trout, or October. Aggressive fish always means baitfish also seek pockets of warm water smaller specks spend February hanging in more opportunities for fishermen. It and will be more concentrated over deeper water. But, during warm winters, also changes the way anglers can fish for muddy bottom areas. So, the combination they, too, will move into the shallows. trophy trout and, as a result, increases the of plentiful food and comfortable With this in mind, if schoolie specks are number of fishermen capable to catching temperatures afforded by muddy bottom thick in an area, fishermen are better off a trophy trout. areas generally attract plenty of trophy moving on. While the fast action can be Typically, winter fishermen have trout. fun, those truly intent on hooking into to work lures extremely slow, as cold However, sow speck seekers need a trophy fish will be better off in an area temperatures make fish lethargic. to keep in mind these mud bottom where they get fewer bites, as big trout However, relatively few fishermen have winter homes don’t just attract trophy rarely are found in the midst of a pack the patience for super-slow fishing trout. Speckled trout of all sizes will be of schoolies. techniques. Warmer winter weather allows working over muddy bottom areas during While the muddy bottom areas of fishermen to work more quickly – similar February. During cold winters, most of the Texas bays will be the “home base” for to fall fishing. This not only opens up the number of lures and retrieval techniques that can be effective, it also allows fishermen to cover more water during the course of a day. Since fish are more active, they will move further to attack a bait. So, lures can be retrieved faster and multiple casts to the same area are not as necessary – instead, fan casting with wide angles is sufficient. And, moving quickly and covering additional acreage will lead to more potential encounters will big fish. A paddle tail soft plastic rigged weightless with just a hook and attached with a nose screw But, even though warm winter weather allows for a soft quiet presentation and a slow fall.

50 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 51 most trophy trout, mild winters also and inshore choices. Colors such as Morning Glory encourage trout to return to the sand fishermen can still and Red Shad are among the best bets. In or sand and grass flats – at least for a be very productive green water, bright colors such as white, portion of the day. During warm winters, throwing the chartreuse and glow can also produce well. most sunny afternoons will find big trout jumbo topwater can be retrieved at a variety laying on top of shallow sand flats, soaking baits they are of speeds, which will also cause them to up the sun and warming their bodies. accustomed to swim at different depths. Adjusting jig However, since baitfish generally are not as chunking for big head sizes can also control the depth these prevalent on these flats, sow specks won’t trout in February. baits can be fished at. spend a lot of time on the sand. But, when Walk-the-dog The variety of lure types, retrieves they are there, they can provide great sight baits will definitely and techniques which will produce casting opportunities. be the top choice, trophy trout during a warm February But, back to the baitfish that big trout although anglers also means more anglers are capable of will be preying on during February. can do equally as being successful in their quest for trophy Usually late winter means only large, well with floater/ trout. Under usual winter circumstances – mature baitfish are found in the bays. divers when there A variety of soft and hard baits can catch trout during the winter cold, nasty weather that necessitates using During warm weather winters, mullet is no or minimal months. These include soft baits rigged on a jighead, suspending baits topwater plugs and slow-sinking baits and and other species of baitfish will often surface riffle. and topwater lures. fishing excruciatingly slow – big trout spawn a bit earlier in the winter, so the In moderately are within reach of only those dedicated likelihood of smaller prey items being clear water, waking baits will draw fish just inches below the surface. But, in order A high rod angle allows this angler to slowly work his lure as it is retrieved. fishermen with advanced angling abilities. around is increased. While the availability from across the flats. Basically, waking a to consistently get the bait to barely skim Warm winter weather allows even average of baitfish of various sizes increases the lure is a way to imitate a mullet swimming beneath the surface with various retrieve around potholes. Dead-sticking is into the pothole. anglers to have a legitimate shot at a sow menu options for speckled trout during just below the surface. The best lures to speeds, it is best to modify the plug by essentially letting a bait fall unhindered. In green to off-colored water, anglers specks. February, sow specks preparing to spawn use for this type of retrieve are lipped cutting the lip. A lip length of about 1/4 To dead-stick a bait, anglers should hold can use larger plastics that give off more So, unless the weather drastically will still be looking to load up on calories, floater/divers like the Cordell Redfin and inch works best and will allow the bait to the rod high and maintain just enough vibration. They should generally look changes before spring arrives, February big baitfish will still top their lists. Bomber Long A. In general, these lures are be retrieved at a quick clip while pushing tension on the line to be able to feel - or at darker, more opaque color schemes. 2016 may be the best opportunity for With that in mind, the traditional meant to dive as deep as three feet. If they a surface wake. ‘remain in contact with’ - the bait. Most Paddletail swimbaits ranging from three most fishermen to catch a bragging size “big bait, big fish” mantra holds true retrieved extremely slowly, they will stay While big, mullet imitating plugs are often, fish will grab the bait as it descends and a half to seven inches are good speckled trout. still going to produce the lion’s share of trophy trout during February, the warmer weather and more aggressive fish, warmer water means soft-plastics will also be more productive. This is especially true when the water turns clear and calm and big trout are found cruising the shallows in search of a meal. These conditions often necessitate a bit more subtle approach. Straight-tail jerkbaits in natural colors or transluscent and holographic color schemes work very well for this duty. When fish are particularly skittish, even smaller baits such as small curl tail grubs work well. Clean water also allows for sight- casting. When sight-casting to individual fish, small jigs and soft-plastic shrimp imitations work well. Essentially, anglers need to choose a bait that lands softly and can remain in the fish’s line of sight for a long time. Anglers can also sight-cast to features on the flats as opposed to individual fish. When fish are found over grass and sand or grass and mud flats, casting into potholes (bare spots) can produce good results. And, even though big specks will be more active during a warmer winter, finesse techniques like are still the most productive when working

52 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 53 GUNS ‘N STUFF | Harold Gunn long and 27 inches high providing room for a hunter and caller. It features three Let’s Talk Turkey adjustable poles to handle varying terrain and is constructed of polypropylene with leaf shaped die cuts, is water and mildew resistant, comes in various Realtree There are many things to be thankful The works is patterns. The H.S. Strut Portable Ground for during the spring turkey season like covered in Mossy Blind is only $ 24.99 from Hunters Mossberg 535 ATS Tactical Turkey shotgun. the thrill of the hunt, sharing camp with Oak Break-Up Specialties at www.hunterspec.com. buddies, milder weather, and the excuse Country. These The joys of turkey hunting can be various types of hickory, plumb, and more to be taken with an arrow. When the to buy more hunting stuff. With the guns are famous greatly enhanced and success improved can be found. early pioneers arrived on the scene, they spring season for Rio Grande turkey in for their rapid fire by getting your hands on a custom call. It Box calls of many shapes and adopted the technique. Today, the idea is the South Zone opening on March 19, capability…just is wonderful what can be found by asking sizes abound made of wood such as the same, but the materials have changed. in the north Zone on April 2, and in one in case. M.S.R.P around or searching online with Google walnut, cedar, cherry and some exotic Some are made with wood, plastic, antler, gobbler counties on April 1, (There is no is in the $ 1200.00 or Ebay. combinations. I have an Eminence style or actual wing bone. spring season in 2016 for Eastern turkeys), range. There you can find friction calls fence post box caller of red cedar from Prices on all of the above go from hunters should gather their gear and Always value with pots of beautiful wood like cherry, Shannon County, Missouri made by John surprisingly reasonable to downright spend some time brushing up on their priced Mossberg’s cocobolo, zebrawood, African mahogany, Spurgin. Wailing on it will yelp through cheap. Not only do they work… they skills. approach is their and more, with surfaces of slate, titanium the wind and treating it tenderly will are beautiful, unique, personalized, and First on the “stuff” list should be a 535 ATS Tactical and copper. With varying grain patterns create sounds as gentle as a mother-in- usually signed and dated, by the maker. turkey hunting specific shotgun. The Turkey. This bad The handy H.S. Strut Portable Ground Blind by Hunters Specialities. and colors the handcrafting makes each laws love. Lastly, if you don’t get a shot and come Winchester SX3 Long Beard Turkey model looking pump gun one unique even though they are from The wing bone turkey call was first up short this season don’t worry, be happy, falls in that category. This autoloading has a pistol grip synthetic stock carries and manipulate barehanded or gloved. All the same craftsman. used by Native Americans, centuries ago. because the famous Greenberg Smoked shotgun has a synthetic pistol grip stock shell holders and features a six-position covered in a Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity Don’t get stuck using the same They used the hollow wing bones of the Turkey folks in Tyler can solve that with textured gripping surfaces and all length of pull similar to an AR. This comes pattern you might get the impression striker on your call... changing the turkey, glued together, probably with pine problem. This is the most delicious turkey help you pull the gun in tight before you in very handy when you find yourself in a the Mossberg 535 ATS Tactical Turkey striker can change your range of sounds. pitch & wrapped with sinew. This made I have ever eaten and is available at the touch off the 3 ½ inch 12 gauge turkey scrunched up sitting position waiting for might just have some other “tactical” Play something ne.! Custom strikers a call that would create the putt of a hot perfect web address, www.gobblegobble. load and send the pellets ripping down that big Tom. Shorten the stock, rest it on applications. Weight is a handy 7 pounds of Brazilian tulipwood, birch laminate, hen and bring a turkey Tom close enough com. the 24-inch barrel and out the Briley your knee and get ready. and retail is a light $667.00. Invector-Plus Long Beard extra full The 3 1/2 inch 12 gauge barrel is a Special turkey guns need special turkey extended choke tube. Recoil is mitigated very manoeuvrable at 20 inches long ammunition so here comes Winchester’s by the Active Valve with Quadra-Vent with adjustable fiber optic sights and an new Long Beard XR 12 gauge rounds. ports gas operating system, barrel back- X-Factora ported choke tube. Loading They promote that while a 40 yard range boring, and Inflex Technology recoil pad. and shucking is smoothly accomplished has long been the standard of maximum Interchangeable comb inserts and recoil by Mossberg’s time proven slide action distance for a clean kill this new shell pad options allow fine tuning the fit. featuring twin action bars, dual extractors, offers a 10% greater penetration over Check back often for the latest outdoor news The SX3 Long Beard barrel has positive steel-to-steel lockup, and an anti- from across Texas, the United States, and standard lead loads beyond 50 yards and around the world. TRULGLO fiber-optic sights and a Weaver jam elevator. twice the number of pellets in a 10” circle style cantilever rail for mounting optics. The top mounted safety is easy to reach out to 60 yards. Both 3-inch and 31/2-inch • Stay informed in between issues rounds push #4, 5 and 6 lead shot down • Latest outdoor updates and news the barrel at 1200 feet-per-second. Their Shot-Lok Technology is • Links to all your favorite resources described as a hardened resin that • Information for hunters and anglers completely encapsulates the lead pellets • Tide Tables eliminating air space around the pellets • Hunting & Fishing times preventing movement, which leaves • Read issues online for subscribers virtually no pellet deformation. As the shot is charged, the resin fractures, • And much, much more! forming a micro-buffer as the shot pattern leaves the gun barrel the pellets remain round resulting in a straighter and tighter Stay OUTDOORS informed! long range pattern. Predator hunters might want to try this on varmints. Turkey hunting requires stealth. An Follow us on Facebook! alternative to going full blown camo is Texas Outdoors Journal the new Portable Ground Blind from Updates, News, Giveaways and More, H.S. Strut that can be quickly set up in delivered straight to your newsfeed! areas with little cover and offers great An Eminence fence post box caller by John Spurgin. concealment. This blind is eight feet

54 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 55 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69, & 71

between 20 and 50 plus pounds. While be red hot,” said Penick. “I usually focus on soft plastics on a jig head. If I am wade we are fishing for the drum, it is not the back bays that have a mix of mud and fishing I am throwing Corkys and Maniac CoastWatch Danno Wise uncommon to hook into a number of bull shell. I also focus on the drains and ledges Mullets.” reds. Cracked crab are the baits of choice where fish can move up on warm days and Sabine Lake guide Capt. Randy for these fish. fall off on cold front days. Redfish can also Foreman says trout will be his primary “For those not wanting to fish the be caught in front of manmade drains. target the first few weeks of February, Big trout will certainly be the focus of Matagorda in February is wait for those “The one thing you need to do, open waters of the Galveston Channel “I also like to fish upper Trinity Bay although his focus will change over the most fishermen along the Upper Texas strong northerns to blow all of the water though, is look for dirty water. You don’t and choose the calmer waters of the back this time of the year. With the barge docks second half of the month. and Louisiana coasts during February. The out of West Matagorda Bay so we can want to fish the crystal clear water. Instead, bays, lakes and bayous, February is also and industrial areas up there, I fish the “At the beginning of the month, I’ll still second month of the year is traditional catch redfish,” said Countz. “Our saying find the dirty streaks and fish right in the a great time to target slot reds, speckled rocks and drains. Wade fishing is still a big be on the north end of the lake looking prime trophy trout time. Given the is ‘lower the tide, the less places for them middle of them. trout and flounder in these hidden places. part of catching trophy trout; focusing on for trout,” said Foreman. “I’ll mostly be unseasonably warm winter weather to hide.’ And, that’s pretty much the way “For trout, you can also do real well up We will target mud flats in one to three the mud shell lines and shorelines holding fishing in four to seven feet of water. But, experienced so far this year, February 2016 it is in February. the Colorado River in February. Of course, feet of water. These areas are the first to bait. When I’m drifting, I am throwing on warm days, you can find those fish in is shaping up to be an outstanding trophy “What you need to do is time it to that’s if it’s not messed up (with fresh begin to warm up on sunny February trout month. where you’re not having to fish in 25 mile- water). But, if the river’s in good shape, days. Mud will hold heat which will attract per-hour winds, but the water is really low. we’ll go up there and troll for trout using baitfish and in turn the fish will follow. Then, you find the normally deep guts a real heavy jig head and soft-plastics. Live shrimp under popping cork and live UPPER COAST and fish them with soft-plastics. Usually, My favorite bait up there is the Lil’ Fishy. mullet fished on bottom are sure bets I use either a Tequila Gold or Black Magic It’s really a bass bait, but I do real well on during February. Norton Bull Minnow. trout with it.” “I am anticipating good late winter “When you find these fish in the guts, Sergant-based guide Capt. Trey Prye of flounder as well. December was you can catch ‘em until your arm falls off. Captain Trey’s Trophy Charters will still be not as good as expected with high tides It is literally some of the best fishing you chasing trophy trout in East Matagorda and mild water temperatures. I was can ever have. But, you really need to fish Bay in February. still seeing flounder feeding on small slow. I use an 1/8 or even a 1/16 ounce “In February, I’ll be fishing East minnows in the back bayous. This is what head so it falls as slow as possible. And, I Matagorda Bay, looking for big trout,” we typically see during the summer. But can’t stress enough how important it is to said Prye. “I’ll be keying in on mud and by February I think we will be back on a have a sensitive rod to feel the bite with. It shell, drains, bait – especially mullet normal flounder pattern.” 224 & 256 NOW AVAILABLE. Carolina are 180, 200, 220, Veriside 23’ & Highside 200 won’t be a hard bite and you really need to since specks are primarily on only a bow shape. Sef-bailing deck, hand-laid hull & draw only 9 1/2” of water. 10-year transferable Capt. Billy Penick of Gypsy Guide cap. Locking & storage, premium upholstery. hull warranty. be able to feel even a slight tap. mullet diet that time of year. I’ll be Service also expects big things in the 100% composite construction. No wood to rot! Matagorda guide Capt. Tommy “If I am looking for trout, I will usually throwing Corkies and tails. Usually I’ll Galveston Complex during February. Countz says he will be fishing both East switch to East Bay. We don’t have just a be throwing Morning Glory/chartreuse “This time of year the trout fishing can and West Matagorda bays in February, whole lot of trout fishing in West Bay or pumpkinseed/chartreuse. depending on which species he is chasing. during February. We will catch some when “If we have a warming trend, I’ll be “One of the things we normally do in the water comes back in. We’ll pretty much hitting the flats for a topwater bite,” he fish for them the confessed. “When we throw topwaters, same way we I like Skitterwalks in pink or Top Dogs fish for reds – and Super Spooks in a mullet pattern or Still building legends, one at a time. 22’ - 25’ models availble. We also carry saltwater concentrating on little trout pattern. In February, I expect bass boats by Ranger. the guts that lead to catch some really big trout in East Bay.” into the bay. Galveston area anglers will have plenty “But, again, of options in February, says guide Capt. for trout, we Greg Verm. usually fish in “February will see us beginning to East Matagorda target spawning bay snapper,” said Verm. Bay. That whole “We’ll also be targeting sheepshead along west end of East the Galveston Jetties as well as areas in the Matagorda Bay bays and back lakes. Live shrimp freelined is shell. You can along the jetty rocks is a sure bet for these drift over that tasty fish. mud and shell “Last year was the best year we have and throw mullet ever had here in Galveston for size and imitating baits quantity of sheepshead. We had many – we’ve always fish over 10 pounds. The largest weighed Photo courtesy Capt. Greg Verm done good Bull 12 pounds. The fishing for sheepshead continues to Capt. Tommy Countz says he waits for a strong northern to blow all of Minnows and “Also, big black drum will be making improve in Galveston Bay and the prospects the water out of West Matagorda Bay so he can catch redfish. Countz MirrOlures – and their annual spring runs. After we limit look good for more quality fish to be caught philosphy in February is, “The ’lower the tide, the less places for them to pick up plenty of on sheepshead we will bring out the large around the jetties and other structure this hide.’ trout. rods for these beasts which will weigh in winter.

56 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 57 two to four feet of water. I’ll be using a “I’ll be fishing over mud. Mud is really shell is mixed with mud. I won’t catch this month should wade and throw big by February, inshore Down South Southern Shad in Midnight the key to finding fish in February, so I’ll a fish in February if I’m not over mud, topwaters or slow-sinking plugs. Most of action will primary Money or Plumtreuse for the most part. still be fishing the shell and mussel pads, because that’s where the mullet will be. the biggest fish will be caught along the be concentrated on I’ll also be using a real light jig head. but you’ve got to find the spots where the You find the mullet and you’ll find the fish. shorelines over muddy bottom. the west side of the “I’ll also be fishing the deeper parts The north end of the lake usually yields Mississippi River. of the Louisiana shoreline for redfish in the most big fish taken from Big Lake Trout will be holding February. During late winter, I’ll fish each during winter and early spring. Of course, in the deeper holes and every front. When the front moves looking for numbers is always an option along the west side, through, the hard north wind causes all for anglers on Lake Calcasieu. where they can be the water to fall out of the lake. So, those Those who would rather catch a lot targeted with soft- fish really stack up in the water that’s left. of keeper-size fish than wait on a few big plastic jigs and lipless When that happens, you can whack those fish should stick to the mid-lake reefs and crankbaits. Hot spots redfish right along the deep drops of the channel edges. Soft-plastics and live bait include the Buras shoreline. will produce more numbers than plugs Canal and Taylor’s “That pattern should hold up as long during the cold periods. Point. Redfish will as the salinity is high. There has been some February fishing will be a mixed also be holding in rain up above us, so we may have some bag for Venice area anglers. Offshore the river. freshwater runoff coming into the lake. fishermen can still find some tuna over At times the reds “If we do happen to have a lot of the mud lumps. But, winter weather can will be mixed in with freshwater come in through the rivers, the make the ride out to the lumps rough and the trout, but most fish will be piled up on the south end of dangerous. Anglers should err on the side often they will be the lake and along the Louisiana shoreline. of caution when it comes to making on found along stretches We’ll still have plenty of good fishing, but offshore run during the winter. However, of rocky rip-rap the bird activity will be over because the fishermen who pick the right day to run shoreline. If the river freshwater will push those shrimp out of out to the mud lumps can certainly get is still fresh, anglers the lake. into some good action for late winter tuna. should look for fish “February 14 – Valentine’s Day – is Assuming the huge influx of freshwater to be on the outside Capt. Nick Poe of Big Lake Guide Service will be using slow sinking Photo courtesy Capt. Trey Prye. Corky’s to catch some quality speckled trout. when I start fishing for flounder again. from flooding upcountry clears out beaches. Fishing with Capt. Trey Prye in East Matagorda Bay this angler caught this beautiful trophy Early in February, we’ll start seeing shrimp trout. coming in from the Gulf. Then, we’ll see little croaker – 1 1/2- to 2-inch croaker – start coming in. When those croaker come in, the flounder will be right behind them. When I start catching trout that are spitting up little croaker, I know it’s time to look for flounder. “And, that almost always happens right around February 14. Given that this year has been a little warmer, it may happen a bit sooner. But, Valentine’s Day always seems to be when the spring flounder run kicks off.” LOUISIANA COAST

February is big trout time on Lake Calcasieu. Those hoping to increase their odds of hooking into sow specks

58 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 59 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69, & 71 Lake Roundup

right when it comes off or they’ll follow Tackle. “But, this year we’ve been having it and hit it when you let it drop deeper. a fairly mild winter and when we’ve had a SOUTH TEXAS “Just about any spinnerbait will work, few warm days back-to-back, the fish have but white and chartreuse are definitely the been a little shallower and quite a bit more best color pattern. My personal favorite active. So, fishing has been a little easier spinnerbait is a double-willowleaf with and, actually, it’s been pretty good. If we gold blades. And, I like to throw 3/8 or stay on this weather pattern and don’t 1/2-ounce spinnerbaits during February. have any hard fronts push through, fishing I almost always throw a spinnerbait should be really good in February. because I can cover a lot more water with “Usually, our fish are deep in the first a spinnerbait, but some guys do really part of February, but begin staging for well with jigs and Texas-rigged crawfish the spawn by the end of the month. But, or lizards. again, the fish have already been moving “I’ll also throw a lot of Berkley shallower than usual and if this weather By Danno Wise Jerkshads this time of year. I’ll fish it in the keeps up, the spawn may happen a little same areas as the spinnerbait. I prefer to earlier this year. February is always a good month for throw it weightless when I’m fishing really “When you start looking for early fishing on South Texas lakes. At least shallow. When I’m fishing a little deeper spawners on this lake, you generally want it is a good month for those who are water, I’ll fish it on a light Carolina-rig. to get on the upper end, because that’s interested in catching trophy bass, as “Again, it’s been a little warmer this usually where the spawn gets started. That February typically signals the beginning winter, so during February, we will really won’t change. Even with the warmer of spawning activity for black bass. This probably have spawning fish throughout weather, the fish in the river and upper end year, that timeline is likely to be moved the lake. But, generally most of our of the lake will spawn first. up a few weeks thanks to the warm winter spawning fish will be found up Coleto “We really have two kinds of spawning weather. That means by the beginning of Creek. Between the two bridges going fish on this lake. The younger, smaller fish February, fish on most every South Texas up the Coleto Creek arm is always full will be like traditional spawning fish on lake will most likely already be spawning of spawning fish and so are all of those other lakes in that they’ll usually be in or will at the very least be staging in the little creeks off of Coleto Creek will likely four to five feet of water or maybe even shallows preparing for the annual spawn. have fish. shallower. The older, larger fish are usually COLETO CREEK – February generally “There will still be some fish near the a bit deeper. If you want those fish, you means good shallow water action on discharge, especially if it’s cold. There are should look for beds on ledges in about 15 Coleto Creek. Warm winter weather only a lot of big hybrids up there this time of feet of water. We usually have about 20 feet increases the amount of fish that will be year. Most of those fish will be caught on of visibility, so you can see ‘em down there. found up shallow, says Victoria bass pro either minnows or Tony Aceta spoons “Wherever you find them, you want Dennis Lala. fished under popping corks. There are to throw a worm or lizard or some sort “Our bass will be spawning in also a lot big yellow cats up there. A lot of creature bait right into their bedding February,” said Lala. “The big fish will be of guys will throw out a couple of rods areas. For us, a 6-inch worm or lizard moving up shallow, where they’ll be more rigged with shrimp on bottom for catfish usually works best. Basically, just throw vulnerable and easier to catch. As a result, out of the back of the boat, then actively over the bed and drag it through there. A there will be some big fish caught out of fish for hybrids from the front of the lot of times they aren’t feeding when they Coleto during February. boat. And, you can usually catch some are on a bed, so what you want to do is get “This year has been pretty warm, so crappie on minnows and some bluegill them mad enough to hit it. A lot of times, I would expect the fish to be up shallow and drum on nightcrawlers. Since it’s it takes repeated casts, so you have to be the entire month. In fact, the spawn will been warmer this year, there hasn’t been as patient and persistent. probably start a little earlier this year. For big of a concentration of fish around the “Again, as long as we keep having this the last year or so, we haven’t had any grass discharge, but there is still a lot of variety.” warm weather, I would expect the shallow in the lake, but the fish will still be found MEDINA – Although Medina Lake water fishing to begin early in February. along the shorelines. I like to start out usually sees spawning activity start a little But, you really never know about the throwing a spinnerbait right up against later than other lakes, this year’s warm weather. If, for whatever reason, we have a the bank and dragging back through winter weather will likely accelerate the severe temperature drop in late winter, the the shallows, then letting it fall into the process. fish will back off to the deeper water and deeper water. If they’re laying up against “Winter fishing is usually tough on this you’ll have to fish slow and deep. When the bank, they’ll usually nail a spinnerbait lake,” said Jim Gallagher of Jim’s Rebait the fish are holding deeper, vertical fishing

60 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 with jigging spoons usually produces best, them even more likely to hit jumbo of warm weather, and some pretty good be where fish congregate. of being full compared to almost 11 feet getting ahead of the spawning cycle. As although they can also be caught on drop- baits. So, fishermen who are seriously fishing prospects. It will be surprising Big 10 inch Carolina rigged Berkley low to start February 2015, and with February gives way to March spawning shot rigs or deep-diving cranks. But, even seeking trophy bass should concentrate on if Amistad is not heard from during the Power Worms are good options for fishing water temperatures ranging in the lower activity will begin to increase. By the if we do get some cooler weather, the fish throwing oversize baits during February. balance of the current ShareLunker season. around deep main lake structure. So are 40s, one might think they would have time April arrives temperatures will be will be looking to move up shallow as soon As is the case with most Texas lakes, There are surely some lunkers that have Texas rigs and jigs. this lake to themselves. However those either side of 70 degrees and the big as we get some warmer weather again. Falcon’s spawn will play out over the feasted on the good shad hatches that have February is typically the coldest month looking to fish rocky slides, deep drops event will be on. “February also usually means the course of several weeks. Fish on the occurred as water has risen. of the year so anglers should concentrate and structure with jigging spoons, Texas Best bets will be around any rocky white bass and hybrids will be schooling. upper end of the lake and in the river Typically in February water efforts in or near deep water haunts. As the rigs or jigs might be rewarded. structure that has been warmed by the They usually aren’t quite ready to run yet spawning first. Fish on the middle and temperatures range from 50 to 60 degrees. month begins to wane look for any warm While fishing on Alan Henry may be sun for several days. With the mild – that usually happens mid- to late-March. lower portions of the lake will also begin If warmer than normal temperatures up to trigger bass moving the Colorado slow this is not the time of year when winter Texas has experienced so far, But, again, if the warm weather holds, that spawning in succession once the spawn persist that range could be from the mid- and Concho Rivers in advance of the many anglers expect to catch a lot of several bright, warm days in a row is not may start a little sooner. So, we may see begins. As a result, it will be possible to to-upper 50s to the lower 60s. spring spawn. fish. Instead most prudent anglers are too far fetched. the beginning of the white bass run by the find fish in every stage of the spawning Anglers looking to locate bass will BROWNWOOD — Here’s a trivia end of February.” cycle - pre-spawn, spawning and post- do well to fish up the rivers throwing question for those that fish this popular CHOKE CANYON – Warm winter spawn - somewhere on Falcon over spinnerbaits, lipless crankbaits, and on lake. When was the last time Lake weather means the spawn should be in the next few weeks. However, while the warm days topwater lures. The pre-spawn Brownwood was at, or right at conservation full swing on Choke Canyon during the spawn generally takes the entire month pattern is pretty simple — find where the pool in February month of February. Most of the spawning to complete, this year’s warmer weather buck bass are staging or holding, then look Answer: February 2005. The lake was fish will be found in the river. So, anglers may see the process shortened by a week to even deeper water for the sows. about one third of a foot low and rose in should concentrate their efforts up the or two. Once a bass is caught, look to any March of 2005 to be fractionally above rivers and creeks that feed into Choke No matter where spawning fish are visible or electronically marked structure conservation pool. Canyon. The best bet is to fish over found in Falcon, they will be hovering and thoroughly fish the area. Square billed In February 2007 the lake was about shallow, muddy shorelines. While working in three to five feet of water. The back crankbaits works well around woody and two feet low. Since then the lake as along the shallow shorelines, a 3/8 ounce reaches of coves and creeks are the most rocky structure. Texas rigs or jigs are good continued to fall and in February 2015 white and chartreuse spinnerbait is the productive areas. However, many bedding options along drops, ledges and submerged was about 12.5 feet low. As of the start of best way to cover water. When working fish will be well hidden behind Falcon’s structure. the new year, Lake Brownwood was about flooded brush along the shorelines, a jig blanket of flooded brush. Anglers fishing for striped bass will a foot above pool level. or Texas-rigged lizards is a good choice. In many instances, anglers would continue to fish the deep water out in front During the last eight to 11 years lots of There will be some spawning fish be well advised to hand pull their way of the dam. This time of year it is purely vegetation grew up and now provides new found on the main lake. Like those in through the brush to reach some of the an electronics mission. Find the bait balls structure for gamefish and baitfish alike. the river, the fish spawning in the main more obscured spawning areas. And, since and the stripers will be nearby. Red Fins For the most part, this February will lake will generally be relating to shallow, many of these big fish will be found in and big Rat-L-Traops as well as diamond see fish hanging around deeper channels muddy bottom areas, preferably with dense cover, anglers are well-advised to jigging spoons will all work. and holes relating to any structure. All brush. The same baits – spinnerbaits, jigs go heavy with their tackle. Catfish anglers should continue to fish of the new vegetation will come into and lizards – that produce up the river will the deeper water. Best depths will be in play as conditions warm and the spawn be good choices in the lake as well. excess of 60 feet. A variety of live, cut, and approaches. Crappie and white bass generally move WEST TEXAS prepared baits will work. The best bet for the colder months will into the river in late February. However, O.H. IVIE — For the past couple of be using Rat-L-Traps and spinnerbaits to this year both species are likely to be years this popular big bass producer has locate bass. Once found it is a Texas rig or found in the river throughout the month. fluctuated from about 41 to 48 feet low. jig two step to catching quality fish in water Crappie will holding tight to brush along Through the month of February the past even deeper. the shorelines, while white bass will be couple of years the lake has been 45 feet pushing their way to the headwaters for low. Even dating back to February of 2013 their annual spawn. the lake was 35 feet low. HIGH PLAINS FALCON LAKE – February usually So what does this mean? means spawning activity on Falcon. Given Many anglers believe with all of the this year’s warmer weather, it is almost water commitments made to various inevitable that the spawn will begin towns and cities that this is the new normal. Ivie is just a smaller lake. Unless sooner. That means, anglers should have By TOJ Staff an excellent opportunity to catch big bass some major storm moves in and dumps a throughout the month. bunch of water the normal conservation Generally speaking, big baits will be AMISTAD — There’s some good news pool will not be met, and even if the lake the key to catching big bass on Falcon. Big, for this popular big bass border lake. As of refills to normal pool levels it could not be double-leaf spinnerbaits, big crankbaits the start of the new year “Big Friendly” has sustained. A fluctuating lake is generally and jumbo soft-plastics will be the top over 12 feet more water than in February not good for fishing. choices for fishermen looking for double- 2014. The other bit of good news is the So while Ivie is at this level consider By TOJ Staff digit bass on Falcon. winter has been more mild than normal. fishing deep diving crankbaits along the The warmer weather should only What this means is lots of new cover, river banks and drops. With less water ALAN HENRY — With this popular increase the fish activity and make flats that will attract fish after several days the river and deeper creek channels will High Plains lake within a foot and a half

62 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 63 TEXAS OFFSHORE | Mike Holmes own experience with yellow fin has been The real prize hooking them on trolled “billfish” lures, for tuna fishermen is Talking Tuna usually around deep-water rigs, but the “giant” blue fin. sometimes just trolling the 100 fathom Reaching weights well curve. These fish are very strong and will over 1,000 pounds, make one wonder if 50 pound class tackle and highly prized as The rest of and offshore conditions more settled. is suitable – my first certainly did that for expensive sushi, few blue that memorable There are several tuna species that are me. They don’t jump, don’t really make fins are caught in Texas, summer I spent caught at least occasionally in Texas waters a lot of long runs but will bore deep in but they are possible in crewing on a 45 and the one most likely to be encountered the water column, and are not easily deeper water. The Texas foot Hatteras and is the one probably least often pursued. brought up. state record was set catching quite a The black fin tuna has a very fine line The summer I “discovered” tuna, I had back in 1985 near Port few more tuna of offshore boats named after it and is the a lot of meat in the freezer. On one charter Mansfield, and weighed – while looking most abundant tuna in Texas waters, but trip we caught eight yellow fins over 100 808 pounds. Blue fins for marlin. While lags behind some of its brethren in size. pounds and the customers shared the over 1,000 pounds have none were as Although the state record from 1988 is fish with us. been taken in Louisiana large as my first, listed at 38.89 pounds, in my experience Tuna are excellent grilled or oven waters off the mouth of many were over 20 pounds might be a good average size. broiled plus I really liked just “nuking” the Mississippi River. An The author doing battle with a yellowfin tuna and suggests it is 100 pounds and Black fin fight very hard, as do all tuna them in the microwave with butter, garlic, old timer” who fished best to use stout tackle in the 50 to 80 pound test class. after one trip we and can be found around shrimp boats, and lemon juice almost as well. Being a that area a lot told me weighed two over oil rigs, and sometimes in large schools true Texan, I even tried frying tuna but he had little interest in 150. working bait in open water. One of the that is not the best method. I have eaten hooking a fish that size in water well over shore, and is easy to locate and hook. Practically all most impressive sights I ever witnessed some raw tuna, at home and on boats and 1,000 feet deep, as it was very possible his The Little Tunny, or False Albacore, often Deep water “floating” drilling platforms attract a lot of gamefish - of the tuna taken offshore was a huge area of water being docks in Texas and Louisiana, but that is reel would run out of line before the fish swarms around culling shrimp boats, over including tuna. in those days “torn up” by black fins – with a huge whale not my preferred way to eat them. hit a depth it was comfortable at. near shore structure, and around rigs. It were on trolled shark in their middle. Another captain Any trolling lure that billfish will hit Many years ago a charter boat out will hit any bait or lures commonly used It is doubtful that I am the only Texas lures. Although I spent several nights told me he had often heard that whale will attract the attention of tuna, from of Freeport on a “hunting” expedition for King mackerel, and although the state offshore angler who could say that on his around deep-water rigs fishing baits, I sharks were a good sign tuna were present, flat-nosed lures that throw an impressive crossed paths with a large school of record is 15.44 pounds and most will be first marlin fishing trip into the Gulf of caught no tuna – mostly white-tipped and therefore a good sign marlin might be “smoke” trail to jet heads, and they can’t blue fin and caught three – all of which smaller they are true tuna and fight much Mexico a tuna was caught instead. Mine sharks. present feeding on the tuna. really be “pulled” too fast. There are no were heavier than the state record at that harder than their size would indicate – and was a very large yellow fin hooked in the After the Balley brothers and some My own research into the subject current bag or possession limits on yellow time. These were 400 to 600 pound fish. they never give up. deep water across the 100 fathom curve, other anglers out of Venice, Louisiana revealed that while the huge sharks did fin that I am aware of,. These biggest of the tunas are thought to More commonly known in the Gulf as just past the twin Cerveza Rigs. At the began catching yellow fin on big popping not themselves feed on tuna, they were spawn in the Gulf. bonito, they should not be confused with time this fish was taken I did not realize plugs at night around rigs and Capt. Peace commonly seen feeding on the same sort While blue fin are the Atlantic Bonito, which is listed in Texas that tuna of this type and size even existed Marvel started issuing reports of hooking of baitfish – or else small organisms the not something to be state records at a best of 27 pounds, but in the Gulf. This would have been around them in the daytime on deep dropped baitfish were feeding on. The tuna would routinely targeted, would also be a rare catch. 1980, before foreign long-liners were live baits, Texas anglers seemed to get seem to be going in and out of the shark’s they are something Little Tunny can even be eaten, banned from catching tuna in the Gulf, more interested in tuna themselves. They open maw at times. to keep in mind although the part you would find edible and before long-liners based in the Gulf found they could be encountered around We did see a marlin that looked to be while trolling past makes up a small part of the fish. Any States had begun to take their place. culling shrimp boats and sometimes not in the 350 pound range also swimming the continental meat soft and really dark red should be The folks who regularly troll for billfish as far from shore as would be expected. among the small tuna, but was not eating shelf. discarded, or used as bait. The latter is were familiar with large tuna – although Capt. Durwood Adams caught a yellow small baitfish – instead it was swallowing For the average really the “bonito’s” best use. They are like many seemed to feel that taking the time fin over 200 pounds behind such a shrimp tuna as though they were M&M’s candy. offshore fisherman, jack crevalle in being almost impossible to to fight one to the boat was “wasted time” boat less than 50 miles off Freeport a few Our efforts to hook the billfish were futile, smaller game might release alive but make excellent cut bait for — better spent seeking marlin. This may years ago. but we did hook and land two nice yellow be more of interest. snapper fishing. be why there was not much information Tuna are a very attractive offshore fin that were involved in the mass feeding Besides black fin, Belly strips cut from bonito are also being published about tuna fishing in the target for several reasons. First, there are frenzy. our state records good trolling baits for a variety of species, Gulf. The fish our crew bested that day currently no size or bag limits on some Black fin can be taken on cast surface show a 28 pound with the “Panama Strip” being a whole might well have been a state record, had species, are very strong fish on rod and reel lures at night under rig lights, but more plus skipjack tuna belly section sewn closed to give it shape we weighed it. Instead cut it up on the tackle, can be taken virtually year round are probably taken on deep-dropped – although I would and keep it from coming apart too soon. A dock at Kirby Marina near Freeport upon and they are very good eating. However a diamond jigs. When seeking black fin on expect this to be a whole “bonito” is about the best shark bait our return. Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Permit lures, it is wise to use tackle that would rare catch (in fact, to be found. In Louisiana, on the Midnight The current Texas state record yellow is required for all boats fishing for pelagic give you a chance of success if a larger I would doubt the Lump out of Venice, literally tons of these fin is listed as 216 pounds, caught in species including tuna. yellow fin takes the lure instead. Currently possibility). fish are used when “chunking” for yellow 1998, and I feel sure ours was heavier. In Tuna can be taken in winter as party there is no bag or possession limits on There is a tuna fin and wahoo in late winter. addition, I know of at least one yellow fin boat anglers out of Port Aransas have black fin. Photo courtesy Coe Parker species which It is really a shame that these fish caught and weighed on certified scales discovered, they are also abundant in Yellow fin are the next most common Yellow fin are most often hooked on trolled “billfish” lures, usually is very common, are considered “trash” by a majority of that was heavier but never submitted for spring and summer – when temperatures Texas tuna and as mentioned can be around deep-water rigs, but sometimes just trolling the 100 fathom frequents waters offshore fishermen, as they are among the state record consideration. are more comfortable to the fisherman considerably larger than black fin. My curve can be productive. relatively close to best light tackle game fish in the Gulf.

64 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 65 TACKLE TIPS & TECHNIQUES | Danno Wise Guides, Gear & Getaways MIDDLE COAST | ROCKPORT Winter’s Shallow Water Action for Reds SALTWater UPPER COAST | SABINE

UPPER COAST | GALVESTON

YOUR AD SHOULD BE HERE! CALL 713-957-3997 for GUIDES, GEAR & GETAWAY ADS Texas by Design Embroidered Apparel with Texas Flair! Specializing in artist designs of the great outdoors. • Fishing Shirts & Caps • Wildlife to Wildflower Apparel • Coastal Bird Creations UPPER COAST | SARGENT For all shapes and sizes of Women and Men.

(361) 729-8995 www.texasbydesignembroidery.com 205 S. Austin St. Rockport, TX 78382

UPPER COAST | MATAGORDA

MIDDLE COAST | PORT O’CONNOR FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK! USCG Licensed Captain News, Updates, Specials and NATHAN BEABOUT Seadrift & Port O’ Connor more, delivered straight to Fishing & Hunting Guide your newsfeed! 210.452.9680 TEXAS OUTDOORS nmsportsmansadventures.com JOURNAL

66 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 67 TACKLE TIPS & TECHNIQUES | Danno Wise Guides, Gear & Getaways Fishing Bass Beds middle coast | port aransas MIDDLE COAST | CORPUS CHRISTI-NORTH PADRE ISLAND

“Professional Property Management and Sales” Serving North Padre Island since 1988 Luxury Vacation Rentals by Gulf Beachfront or on Canals leading to Upper Laguna Madre & your favorite fishing spot. Many with private boat docks. Book online or call our rental specialist today! 361.949.9050 OFFICE 361.949.9070 FAX 14613 S. PADRE ISLAND DRIVE, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78418 www.rentalmgmt.com

LOWER COAST | BAFFIN BAY

Visit us online! texasoutdoorsjournal.com

LOWER COAST | PORT ISABEL & SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

YOUR AD SHOULD BE HERE! CALL 713-957-3997 for GUIDES, GEAR & GETAWAY ADS

.

68 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 69 FIELD TIPS & TECHNIQUES | Bill L. Olson & Danno Wise Guides, Gear & Getaways After Deer Season’s Close LOWER COAST | PORT MANSFIELD HUNTING A PLACE FOR ALL SEASONS Relax, we’ll take care of the details! HUNTING & CAMPING ACCESSORIES

World Class Fishing

Dove & Waterfowl

Cast & Blast

Inshore & Offshore

Private & Corporate Events & Meetings GIVE US A CALL!

LOUISIANA | LAKE CALCASIEU

YOUR AD SHOULD BE HERE! CALL 713-957-3997 for GUIDES, GEAR & GETAWAY ADS

Texas Fresh Water SOUTH TEXAS LAKES | MEDINA

WATERFOWL HUNTING MISCELLANEOUS Be sure to check out texasoutdoorsjournal.com before your next hunting or fishing trip

70 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 71 Deadline for the March calendar is February 25, 2016

fundraiser banquet, Huntsville. For Park. Bows and arrows will be pro- 6132, x236 more information and reservations vided. Recommended for children 5 Outdoor Calendar call (936) 438-8000. and up. Bring comfortable walking FEBRUARY 19, shoes, weather appropriate clothing, Whitehouse Chapter Ducks Unlim- FEBRUARY 12 - 14, cameras, hats/caps, sunglasses, ited K.E. Bushman’s Celebration fund- 5th Annual Coastal Bend Boat & RV water, snacks, sunblock, and insect raiser, Center. For more information THROUGH FEBRUARY 14, Kenedy, Kleberg, Willacy counties. or call (800) 792-1112. Show, Richard M. Borchard Regional repellent. Meet at the Visitor Center. and reservations call (903) 539-8606. Wilson’s Snipe (Common snipe or For more in-formation consult the Fair Grounds Central Pavilion Arena, Admission: Adults: $10, Children 12 Jacksnipe) season, Statewide. For TPWD Outdoor Annual, website, or FEBRUARY 1 - MARCH 20, Robstown. For more information visit and Under: $6. Registration required. FEBRUARY 20, more information consult the TPWD call (800) 792-1112. Light Goose Conservation Season, www.coastalbendandrvexpo.com or For more information call (956)350- Tri-County Chapter Mule Deer Foun- Outdoor Annual, website, or call East Zone (123 counties). For more call (361) 205-9695. 2920. dation fundraiser banquet, El Paso. (800) 792-1112. THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, information you may consult the For more in-formation and reserva- Javelina season, Northern, 43 coun- Texas Outdoors Annual, or call (800) FEBRUARY 13, FEBRUARY 13, tions call (505) 363-5241. THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, ties. For more information consult 792-1112. Class for Beginners, Texas Trout Frenzy Family Fishing Day, Squirrel Season, 51 East Texas coun- the TPWD Outdoor Annual, website, Freshwater Fisheries Center, Athens. Garner State Park, Concan. The Frio FEBRUARY 26 - 28, ties. For more information consult or call (800) 792-1112. FEBRUARY 1 - MARCH 20, Expert fly-fisher Bob Cappallo will River will be stocked with a total of All Valley Boat Show, McAllen Con- the TPWD Outdoor Annual, website, Light Goose Conservation Season, teach fly-fishing for beginners, age 1,000 rainbow trout awaiting your vention Center, McAllen. For more or call (800) 792-1112. THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, West Zone (151 counties). For more 16 years and older. No fly-. Let’s go fishing! Rainbow trout information visit www.allvalleyboat- Chacalaca season, four Rio Grande information consult the Texas Out- experience is required and equip- are fun and easy to catch for both show.com, or call (866) 639-8940. THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, Valley counties. For more information doors Annual, or call (800) 792-1112. ment is provided. A $50 class fee per beginning and advanced anglers. Quail season, Statewide. For more consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, student includes entrance, lunch and Spend the day casting, catching, and FEBRUARY 27, information consult the TPWD Out- website, or call (800) 792-1112. FEBRUARY 4, a season pass to the Texas Freshwater (hopefully) cooking your catch. No Texas Hill Country Chapter Rocky door Annual, web-site, or call (800) Tomball Chapter Ducks Unlimited Fisheries Center effective one year Fishing License needed. Fish from Mountain Elk Foundation Big Game 792-1112. THROUGH AUGUST 31, fundraising banquet, Tomball. For from the class date. Advance reser- the Dam and upstream with light banquet, Georgetown. For more in- Javelina season, South Zone (50 coun- more information and reservations vation required. Class size is limited tackle (small sinkers, small bobbers, formation and reservations call (512) THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, ties). For more information consult call (281) 799-1829. to 20 persons. For more information small bait hooks) small lures and/or 858-9955. Rio Grande Turkey fall season, Brooks, the TPWD Out-door Annual, website, call (903) 676-2277. bait (i.e. kernel corn, nightcrawlers, FEBRUARY 5, 12, 19, 26, powerbait, mealworms, crickets, FEBRUARY 27, Fishing With A Ranger, Inks Lake FEBRUARY 13, Velveeta cheese balls, salmon eggs). Parker County Chapter Mule Deer State Parks, Burnet. Come out and Archery 101, Resaca de la Palma State Keep your catch – five fish per day Foundation fundraiser banquet, try to catch the big one! Everyone Park, Brownsville. Learn the basics of bag limit. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For Weatherford. For information and welcome for free archery at Resaca de la Palma State more information call (830) 232- reservations call (817) 475-9702. instructional program. No fishing license required while on state park property. We have the poles and the worms. Meet behind the Park Store. Free with park entrance fee. No reservations required. For more information call (512) 793-4689. Mail your Outdoor Calendar items to: FEBRUARY 5, Victoria Chapter Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Big Game banquet, You can make a difference by 1706 W. Sam Houston Pkwy North, Victoria. For more information and reporting illegal hunting and fishing activity! reservations call (361) 572-9904. Houston TX 77043 Up to $1,000 may be paid for information leading FEBRUARY 5-14, to arrest and conviction of poachers Dallas Fort Worth Boat Expo, Market Fax: 713.957.3996 Hall, Dallas. For more information Email: [email protected] call (469) 500-6155. Reward Hotline 800-792-GAME FEBRUARY 6, Gillespie County Chapter Mule Deer Support anti-poaching efforts by becoming a Foundation fundraiser banquet, member of the Operation Game Thief Program Fredericksburg. For more information and reservations call (832) 556-9999. (call 512-389-4381 for membership information) or by sending your tax deductible contribution to Operation FEBRUARY 11, Game Thief, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744 Huntsville Chapter Ducks Unlimited

72 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 february 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 73 Tide Tables Fishing & Hunting Times TOP TEN REASONS TO SUBSCRIBE US TIME ZONES TO TEXAS OUTDOORS JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2016 PACIFIC MOUNTAIN CENTRAL EASTERN < (+) (-) > < (+) (-) > < (+) (-) > < (+) (-) > SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1. On February 28, 2015, TOJ was named for the 17th consecutive year L4:55A -0.1 L5:38A -0.3 L6:19A -0.4 L6:59A -0.5 L7:38A -0.6 H12:08A 0.9 H12:56P 0.6 H2:04P 0.7 H2:46P 0.8 H3:21P 0.9 H3:53P 0.9 L8:18A -0.7 L3:24P 0.5 L6:34P 0.5 L7:52P 0.7 L8:02P 0.7 L8:12P 0.8 H4:24P 1.0 named one of the top fi shing, hunting & outdoor magazines in Texas. No H9:26P 0.7 H9:49P 0.7 H10:24P 0.8 H11:13P 0.8 L8:36P 0.8 1 2 3 4 5 6 other major outdoor publication in Texas can equal this level of sustained H1:05A 0.9 H2:03A 1.0 H3:05A 1.0 H4:12A 0.9 H5:28A 0.9 L12:31A 0.1 L1:36A 0.0 L9:00A -0.7 L9:42A -0.7 L10:25A -0.6 L11:10A -0.4 L11:56A -0.2 H6:54A 0.8 H8:32A 0.8 H4:54P 1.0 H5:23P 0.9 H5:51P 0.9 H6:19P 0.9 H6:47P 0.8 L12:46P 0.1 L1:41P 0.4 excellence and recognition. L9:09P 0.7 L9:50P 0.6 L10:38P 0.5 L11:31P 0.3 H7:15P 0.8 H7:44P 0.8 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 L2:46A -0.2 L3:59A -0.3 L5:09A -0.5 L6:13A -0.5 L7:11A -0.5 H12:01A 0.9 H1:01A 0.9 2. A year’s subscription has 12 issues, not something less. H10:18A 0.8 H12:04P 0.9 H1:31P 1.0 H2:33P 1.0 H3:20P 1.1 L8:03A -0.5 L8:48A -0.5 L2:54P 0.6 L4:59P 0.7 L7:01P 0.8 L8:04P 0.8 L8:42P 0.8 H3:56P 1.0 H4:25P 1.0 H8:17P 0.8 H8:57P 0.8 H9:5P 0.9 H10:56P 0.9 L9:10P 0.8 L9:32P 0.7 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 3. Both fi shing and hunting coverage in every issue. H1:55A 1.0 H2:47A 0.9 H3:37A 0.9 H4:28A 0.9 H5:24A 0.9 H6:25A 0.8 L12:41A 0.2 L9:28A -0.4 L10:03A -0.3 L10:34A -0.1 L11:03A 0.0 L11:32A 0.2 L12:01P 0.3 H7:36A 0.8 H4:50P 0.9 H5:12P 0.9 H5:32P 0.9 H5:53P 0.9 H6:13P 0.8 H6:33P 0.8 L12:34P 0.5 4. Covers Texas like it should be covered with timely reports from L9:53P 0.6 L10:17P 0.6 L10:46P 0.5 L11:20P 0.4 L11:58P 0.3 H6:51P 0.8 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 the fi eld and on the water. L1:28A 0.1 L2:20A 0.1 H8:57A 0.8 H10:28A 0.8 L1:10P 0.6 L1:53P 0.6 120° 115° 110° 105° 100° 95° 90° 85° 80° 75° H7:04P 0.8 H7:01P 0.8 5. Proven solunar table of major and minor feeding periods of the day.. 28 29 FEBRUARY 2016 6. Tide table with adjustments for the entire Texas coast. MARCH 2016 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 7. Written by top writers that have etched their names in the record books. L3:18A 0.0 L4:18A -0.1 L5:18A -0.1 L6:13A -0.2 L7:05A -0.3 H11:59A 0.9 H1:13P 1.0 H2:02P 1.1 H2:38P 1.1 H3:08P 1.1 L3:00P 0.7 L7:34P 0.9 L7:40P 0.9 H5:51P 0.9 H10:51P 1.0 8. TOJ tells you where to go, what to expect when you get there and 1 2 3 4 5 H12:13A 1.1 H1:24A 1.1 H2:32A 1.2 H3:39A 1.3 H4:49A 1.3 H6:02A 1.3 L12:03A 0.0 how to do it a little bit better. L7:54A -0.3 L8:42A -0.3 L9:30A -0.2 L10:17A 0.0 L11:06A 0.2 L11:57A 0.4 H7:21A 1.3 H3:34P 1.1 H4:00P 1.1 H4:24P 1.1 H4:49P 1.0 H5:15P 1.0 H5:41P 1.0 L12:52P 0.7 L8:09P 0.8 L8:47P 0.7 L9:31P 0.5 L10:18P 0.3 L11:09P 0.1 H6:08P 1.1 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 9. Covers the Texas outdoors and outdoors interests of Texans. 10. Every cover is a work of art. Times are for Galveston, Galveston Channel ONE YEAR SUBSCRIPTION 95 TIME DIFFERENCES High Low $ 95 12 MONTHS OF TEXAS OUTDOORS JOURNAL $ Calcasieu Pass, Louisiana -2:14 -1:24 Sabine Pass Lighthouse -1:46 -1:31 18 DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR & AVAILABLE ONLINE 18 Sabine Pass Jetty -1:26 -1:31 Sabine Pass -1:00 -1:15 MARCH 2016 Mesquite Point, Sabine Pass -0:04 -0:25 Yes, I want to receive TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal. Sign me up for: NEW Galveston Bay ent. south jetty -0:39 -1:05 RENEWAL Port Bolivar +0:14 -0:06 $ 95 $ 95 $ 95 Galveston Bay one year 18 two years 29 three years 39 GIFT Texas City, Turning Basin +0:33 +0:41 12 issues 24 issues 36 issues From Eagle Point (1) +3:54 +4:15 ($47.88 on newsstands) ($95.76 on newsstands) ($143.64 on newsstands) Clear Lake(1) +6:05 +6:40 monthly printeD issues incluDeD With these subscriptions Morgan Point (1) +10:21 +5:19 Round Pt.,Trinity Bay (1) +10:39 +5:15 NAME Point Barrow, Trinity Bay +5:48 +4:43 Gilchrist, East Bay +3:16 +4:18 ADDRESS Fish, game and all wildlife move in search of food in cycles relative to the moon’s location to the earth. Jamaica Beach, West Bay +2:38 +3:31 The time spans listed above are the prime times to start each day at and along each time zone meridian CITY STATE ZIP Alligator Point, West Bay +2:39 +2:33 of longitude 75 degrees (Eastern) 90 degrees (Central) 105 degrees (Mountain) and 120 degrees (Pacific) during Standard time and Daylight Saving during the time it is in effect. To determine the feeding cycle Christmas Point, Christmas Bay +2:32 +2:31 time for best fishing and hunting in the area you plan to fish or hunt advance the sum of 4 minutes for PHONE EMAIL ADDRESS Galveston Pleasure Pier -1:06 -1:06 each degree west and back up 4 minutes for each degree east. The next prime feeding cycle (not listed on teXas outDoors Journal Does not rent or sell its mailing list, nor release any information about subscribers. the calendar) will be approximately twelve and one-half hours later. There are minor periods that occur San Luis Pass -0:09 -0:09 between the prime or major periods. The minor periods are typically fair periods and last only about half Freeport Harbor -0:44 -1:02 as long as the prime periods. Payment: Check/MO Enclosed Visa MasterCard American Express Discover Pass Cavallo 0:00 -1:20 Feeding Times by Dan Barnett have been proven by analysis of 124 – 3 day bass tournaments between Aransas Pass -0:03 -1:31 1967 through 1983 to be reliable and accurate in predicting wildlife feeding activity. The Feeding Times Account # Exp. Date are not a cure-all. Weather and other environmental conditions affect wildlife feeding activity. Annual vest Padre Island (South End) -0:24 -1:45 pocket books, which show all the major and minor periods, can be ordered by sending a check or money CW2 (3-digit code on back of MC, Visa & Discover; 4-digit code on front of AmEx) Port Isabel +1:02 -0:42 order for $19.95 per book. For S&H, please add $4.95 to an order of 1 to 4 books. Make check or money Tidal adjustments are not predictable for Port O’Connor, Matagorda Bay; Port order payable to: Feeding Times. Send to: Feeding Times, P.O. Box 2240, Covington, GA 30015. After Oct. Lavaca, Matagorda Bay; and Riviera Beach, Baffin Bay since they are driven by wind 1, please indicate book year. For questions or comments, you can call 404-373-7151. Signature and weather. — NOAA Over 60 Years in Print Feeding Times by Dan Barnett 17 Years Test Proven Mail this completed form to: TEXAS OUTDOORS JOURNAL, 1706 W. Sam Houston Parkway North, Houston TX 77043 Or call 1-800-222-4TOJ (4865) In Houston call 713-957-3997 to charge your subscription by phone. 74 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal february 2016 Or order SECURELY online at www.texasoutdoorsjournal.com. Please allow 6-8 weeks for your subscription to begin.