Volume 22, Number 1 FREE June 2012

TM

in this issue FREE THIS ISSUE COMPLIMENTS OF • Post Spawn Tidal Bass • results from the elk survey • AugHenbaugh - north to alaska • The Top 10 Fishing Tips of All Time • MSSA 2012 Champion, Glenn Orr Wins $69,476 • Banana Folklore

June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 1 DNR reminds anglers of Spiny Dogfish regulations Annapolis, Md. ─The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announces that the commercial spiny dogfish fishery is open; anglers without a permit from the National Marine Fisheries Service may catch up to 3,000 pounds of the fish per day from Maryland waters, within three miles of the shore. The daily limits may be modified or the fishery may be closed if the National Marine Fisheries Service determines the fishery’s quota is reached. Information and regulations are available at hnmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/ hms/. Riverside wildlife management area opens to hunting Nanjemoy, Md. — The newly established Riverside Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is now open to hunting. The Mary- land Department of Natural Resources (DNR) acquired this 373-acre property located in the south-western portion of Charles County in 2010. CJ Wink caught this beautiful 43” rockfish in Tangier Sound this past spring. Photo courtesy of Winks “With its diverse landscape, Sporting Goods Bushnell introduces the Legend Ultra HD crossbow scope Bushnell Outdoor Products, an permanent, water-resistant finish causes modern crossbows that exceed 300 feet industry-leader in high performance moisture to bead up and scatter less per second. sports optics and outdoor accessories light, allowing the scope to perform The 1.75-5x 32mm Legend Ultra HD for more than 60 years, has introduced even in inclement weather. crossbow scope is available for a sug- a new 1.75-5x 32mm Legend Ultra HD Featuring the exclusive Dead On gested retail price of $199.99. crossbow scope. Crossbow hunting Accurate (DOA) crossbow reticle from Backed by the Bushnell Bulletproof has grown significantly in the last few Bushnell, the Legend Ultra HD helps Guarantee, if the customer isn’t com- years with states implementing special hunters make every shot count. With pletely satisfied with the Legend Ultra this new Charles County Wild- crossbow seasons and allowing the use easy to identify aiming points at 10 yard HD crossbow scope within one year of life Management Area will pro- increments from 20-60 yards, the DOA purchase, Bushnell will provide a full vide a variety of new opportu- crossbow reticle is compatible with refund. nities for Maryland Sportsmen to hunt upland and forest game, migratory game birds, waterfowl DECKELMAN'S PILE and deer,” said Southern Region DRIVING Habitat Manager Jim Bennett. Riverside WMA is open to “BUILT TO LAST” regulated hunting for all game New Construction and Repairs species and follows established season dates and bag limits. of crossbow scopes during established -Piers - -Offshore Blinds Hunters can find those regula- hunting seasons as well. Bulkheads tions in the 2011-2012 Guide to The new Legend Ultra HD cross- -Foundations Hunting and Trapping in Mary- bow scope is equipped with a host of -Rip Rap -Land Bridges land. Waterfowl hunting and features for optimal performance and -Dredging -Marina trapping on Riverside WMA will lasting reliability. Built with a sleek one- -Floating Docks Construction be by permit only. piece tube design and a slim line power -Boat Lifts -Boathouse Hunter access to Riverside change ring, the scope features fully -Living WMA will not require posses- multi-coated optics to deliver nearly 90 -Moorings sion of a seasonal permit or daily percent light transmission and a clear, Shorelines -Osprey Structures reservations. Hunters must park crisp sight picture. -Demolition -And more in designated parking areas only. In addition to providing optical ex- Our structures are built with quality materials and attention to detail. Additional information about cellence, the Legend Ultra HD crossbow the Riverside WMA is available scope is engineered to withstand abuse All of our structures are warrantied and backed by at dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/ in the field and whatever Mother Nature a family in the business for over 40 years. publiclands/wmasouthern.asp throws its way. The scope is 100 percent or by calling the Myrtle Grove waterproof, fog proof and shockproof, 22589 Hudson Road www.deckelmanseasternshore.com Office: 410-778-6777 WMA office at 301-743-5161. and the optics are protected with the Rock Hall, MD. 21661 [email protected] Fax: 410-778-9400 patented RainGuard HD coating. The 2 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 3. Be quiet! Sound travels through fish are being finicky, and see if you “hooked on fishing” water better than it does through air, still harbor any doubts. so anything you hear, the fish are go- The Top 10 Fishing Tips ing to hear—or rather sense, through 6. Hook live baits through the lips their vibration-detecting lateral line. when you want them to stay near the of All Time You’ve just slammed a fiberglass surface, and hook them through the enjoyment. hatch? Everything within 100 yards back behind the dorsal fin when you is now spooked. You yelled across the want them to swim down through the 1. Cut off the last 10 feet of fish- water to a buddy? Congratulations, water column. Again, I can’t explain By Lenny Rudow ing line before each and every trip. you just alerted all of the fish within No matter what type of fishing you casting distance of your presence. If do, the last 10 feet of your line is the you want to boost your catch rate, Let’s face it: our year 2012 brains learn to tone down the sound. are over-flowing with information, section that’s most prone to wear and stretching. How many times have you our cell phones never seem to stop 4. Match lure color to water color. ringing, and our work lives constantly broken off near the hook, on a chaff in the line? How often has over-stretched I’d love to be able to explain the sci- accelerate at a blinding pace. (If you’re ence behind this, but I’m no scientist. retired, never mind. And I hate you.) monofilament snapped a week later? You’ll avoid these problems, by cut- That said, history proves it beyond a It’s tough for us to sit down and read doubt—match your lure color to the long-winded articles, especially when ting off those final feet at the begin- ning of each and every trip. general water color, and you’ll catch our reading time is limited mostly to more fish. In the Chesapeake’s green- lunch breaks and time spent—let’s be ish waters, for example, chartreuse is honest here, folks—on the porcelain 2. Remove line twist by towing your line at trolling speed, with noth- commonly a killer; in tannic-stained throne. So this issue, in interest of waters root-beer is a winner; when making everyone’s life a little easier ing tied to the end. Few problems are as aggravating as the loops, twists, night fishing black often works won- and everyone’s brain a little less taxed, ders, and so on. I’ve prepped you an article that you and tangles caused by line twist. And there’s only one cure: as you move can read easily and absorb in short 5. Give ‘em something to smell. As snippets. Yet it should still be of along at five or six MPH, let the line trail your boat with nothing tied to the a general rule of thumb, lures and baits great interest to anglers everywhere, Fish can’t swim backwards - net end, and that twist will come out. Cau- that have a scent will out-catch those whether you spend your time jerkin’ without. You don’t believe it? Try us- ‘em head-first. perch or battling billfish. Here are tion: don’t forget to tension the line with a finger, as you reel it back in. ing GULP! soft plastics side-by-side the top 10 fishing tips of all time, in with an un-scented plastic when the no particular order, for your reading See Rudow Page 3

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June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 3 In This Issue...

Volume 22, Number 1 June 2012 FISHING

Top Ten Fishing Tips of All Time

by Lenny Rudow Page 3

Post Spawn Tidal bass by Tim Sherman Page 6

Micro-Light for Bass? Are You Crazy?

by Jim Gronaw Page 12 HUNTING Mastering the Critical Three by Mike Monteleone Page 8

From Coast to Coast by Andy Aughenbaugh Page 10

Results from the Elk Survey by Steve Huettner Page 29 Tom O’Brien with a 19.6 lb. turkey with a 11 1/2” beard and 1 1/4” spurs taken in Kent County, MD.

REGULARS Coastal Report by Capt. Mark Sampson Page 22

Mid Bay Forecast by Chuck Prahl Page 24

Sportsman’s Classifieds Page 30

CREDITS Editor & Publisher: Capt. M. Mitchell G. Quillen Contributing Editors: Steve Huettner,Chuck Prahl, Lenny Rudow,Capt.Mark Sampson, Tim Sherman, Jim Gronaw,Andy Aughenbaugh, Mike Monteleone Regional Sales Representatives: MD: Capt. Lee Buckel 410-708-1616 Creative Director: Capt. Marc Van Pelt Advertising Information: [email protected] (410)778-6575 Fishing & Hunting Journal P. O. Box 399 • Crumpton, MD 21628 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com

Fishing & Hunting Journal Name and Logo are Registered Trademarks wholly owned and operated by Fishing & Hunting Journal c/o Mitch Quillen, P. O. Box 399 Crumpton, MD 21628. All rights reserved.© 2011, Fishing & Hunting Journal. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

4 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 Rudow … Continued from Page 3 the science, but try it both ways and you’ll see that it’s true. Todd Sev ik with a 23 lb. 40” 7. Always net fish head-first. Most fish can’t Rockfish caught swim backwards, but if you chase them from the rear near Chesapeake they’ll regularly swim away from the net. ‘Nuff said. Beach in late April. Photo cour- 8. Always cast down- or cross-current, and always tesy of Clyde’s retrieve into the current or cross-current. A bit of Sport Shop. simple observation will prove that the vast majority of the time, baitfish will swim into the current. If you’re casting up-current and retrieving your lure down-current, it looks completely un-natural. A bit First choice of Eastern of experience in the field will prove that the more natural your baits and lure appear, the more strikes Shore anglers and hunters! you’ll get.

9. Match hook size to bait size—not the size of the fish you’re hoping to catch. You can catch a monster of a fish on a tiny hook, but if you use a tiny Kent Island’s Largest Full-Service bait on a large hook, you won’t get a lot of interest. And if you’ve matched the hook to the bait and that Sporting Goods Store finned critter is large enough to eat the bait you’re FISHING • ARCHERY • HUNTING offering up, it’ll have no problem getting the hook into its mouth.

10. The next time you sense an opportunity, shut out the rest of the world, turn off your cell phone, Get Your Summer Fishing take the day off of work, and go fishing. You won’t regret it. And now that you’ve reached the end of this ar- Tackle Here! ticle, don’t forget to wash up! Bait - Nightcrawlers, Bloodworms, Razor Clams, Frozen bait! Come shoot the The 2012 Matthews Helim: 20 Years in Crabbing Supplies the Making In Stock!

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www.chesapeakeoutdoors.com MD FISHING LICENSES • RAMP PERMITS • FROzEN bAIT • ACCESSORIES • CRAbbING SuPPLIES Chesapeake Outdoors Rte 50 E, Exit 39B Chester, Maryland 21619 Live-lining for spot? Hook the baits through the lips to encourage them to stay high in the water Phone: 410-604-2500 • e-mail: [email protected] column; hook them behind the dorsal, if you want In Season Hours:Mon – Sat 5am - 7pm, Sun 5am - 5pm them to swim down deeper. June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 5 of the bed have a very short strike tion. He reserves his last rod for a zone. The Pennsylvania pro says, 1/8-ounce black buzzbait. It’s a lure “Tackle Box Tim” “They are not willing to chase and that can generate bites at any tide if they don’t have to.” The tide will he finds aggressive bass in the final Post Spawn Tidal Bass deliver them a smorgasbord of food stages of post spawn. that is available in the eco-system. Dave K ilby also look s for t he f i rst though easy to catch, are better left Those bass that have been off the depth change away from the bedding to fend off the invaders. Female bass beds for several days have a wider areas. The depth change itself is are recuperating from the burden- strike zone. enough to attract bass, but having some task of reproducing and are Randy lays out five rods at the bow other cover is a bonus. He’ll look for difficult to catch in the first few of his boat. Each has a different lure. shorelines with fallen wood in deep days after leaving the nest. So, how He starts with a Senko stick worm water. As a prospective, wood cover do you go about catching large bass for the lethargic ladies. He chooses may only be in 3 to 4 feet of water as that are not in the mood to eat? Our this worm because it forces him to bass will spawn in a little as a foot By Tim Sherman tidewater bass experts have strate- fish with a slow presentation. Tide of water. Dave will also look for the gies that routinely catch bass through plays a big part in three of the other outside edges of grass beds. This is the post spawn doldrums. four lures when casting for bass with where you’ll often find a transition While catching bass can be quite a more advanced appetite. With a line in the bottom. Randy Yarnall, Dave Kilby, Rick a challenge during the post spawn, high tide, he’ll cast a Mann’s Baby Kilby starts by probing wood Haber. These are names you may be R a nd y Ya r n a l l r at he r e njoys t he t i me - 1-Minus. As the tide falls, Yarnall cover for lethargic bass. He’ll flip familiar with by reading my articles frame. He says old school thinking will move to a 1/4-ounce spinnerbait. and pitch a PowerTeam Lures Texas through the years. Each of these an- is that it takes a female bass a week On a slack tide, he’ll flip and pitch a rig jig. When fishing the edges of glers has vast tournament knowledge or more to regain her appetite. In Z oom U lt r a Vibe Sp e e d Cr aw t o ba ss vegetation, Dave will cast the Ima from fishing waters throughout the reality, she only needs two to three that are holding within the vegeta- Roumba wake bait. He retrieves it region, if not the country. All three days to set her metabolism straight. have spent an excessive amount of However, the theory about where the time fishing Maryland’s tidal waters. la dy ba ss re cove r s hold s t r ue. R a ndy They can tell you for a fact that one knows that they don’t move far. He of the toughest times of the year to looks for the first change to deep qu al it y cat ch ba ss is whe n t hey come water away from the spawning bed. off of their spawning beds. He keys on depth changes around During the post spawn period, points -- points of land and points when you f i nd t he bed s you w ill f i nd in grass beds. the male bass. They are feverishly Because not all bass move from guarding fry from advantageous the spawning beds at the same time, perch, blue gills, and sunfish look- Yarnall is geared to fish several tac- ing for an easy meal. The male bass, tics. Bass that have just moved off

BFL tournament angler Rick Haber shows a large post spawn bass that he caught under a pier in the upper Chesapeake.

See Sherman Page 7

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www.catfishmd.Us Your FrEE sourcE For MarYland Katrina “Kat” Sweitzer age 13 during the 2011 hunting season took two bucks. A nine point shot on youth day and a seven point later on. Both c atFishing inForMation! were shot with a .243. This was her first year of hunting. Photo courtesy of Delmarva Sporting Clays. ALL FISHING! Upcoming national survey to gather dove hunter opinions An upcoming survey will ask management and conservation of our ALL THE TIME! dove hunters from across the United migratory bird resources.” State to share their experiences and There are more than 1 million dove Bay • Surf • Bass • opinions about dove hunting. Topics hunters nationally, with seasons in 40 Trout • Panfish will include time spent hunting, de- states. “We’re surveying dove hunters SPECIAL ORDERS OUR SPECIALTY mographics, constraints to hunting, in every state that has a dove season STRIPER TACKLE! and thoughts about potential effects so they can give us their opinions on Bay Trolling • Fly Fishing E-Mail Questions and Tackle Inquiries of spent lead from hunting ammuni- a variety of topics,” Richkus says. Freshwater Tackle Welcomed: [email protected] tion on mourning doves and other “This approach will give us an excel- Lead Molds, All Sizes ROD & REEL REPAIRS & SERVICE wildlife. lent picture of mourning dove hunter Waders & Hip Boots for Over 200 Different Do-It & Cast Iron Molds in Stock The survey is a cooperative effort thoughts and needs by state, region, ALL Sizes by the state fish and wildlife agencies, and nationwide.” Over 600 Different Reels In Stock all four flyway councils, and the U.S. The National Dove Hunter Survey Complete Selection of Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). is scheduled to begin in late June Visit Our FLY FISHING TACKLE "We are conducting this survey be- 2012, and will be completed by the cause hunter opinions and preferences end of the year. Distinctive Fly Rods • Reels • Tying Supplies & Equipment Fishing Room are important and should be taken “We really hope each dove hunter • How-To Books & Videos into account whenever possible,” who receives a survey takes the time says Dr. Ken Richkus of the Service’s to complete and return it in the post- Since 1916... First Choice of Fishermen Around the World Population and Habitat Assessment age-paid envelope provided,” Rich- Branch. “The Service and the states kus added. “Their answers are very (410) 327-6942 want to make sure we use the best important, and we appreciate their 1919-25 Eastern Ave. Baltimore, MD. 21231 science-based information for the efforts to tell us what they think.” June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 7 Through practice, I’ve learned that such a big buck shook my confidence for a 20-yard walking shot I have to to the core and serves as a great re- “hunting passion” trigger the release as soon as the front minder to me anytime I think I can put of the bucks shoulder appears beyond a shot on autopilot. There is no such my sight pin-a lead of about 10 inches thing as an easy shot when hunting with my setup. It is slightly less on big whitetails. Mastering the to shoot walking. faster bows. To combat the tendency to take Critical Three That means dealing You can easily rig up a moving these shots for granted, be patient on with movement has target in your backyard or archery the trigger. Put just as much effort been a part of more range. Simply hang a bag target from and concentration into the chip shots than 60 percent of my shots. Moving two pulleys and release a string so it as you do the longer ones. By Mike Monteleone shots are a realit y; you will likely face can run down an inclined rope as you Short shots are also tough because a buck moving this fall. shoot at it. You can vary the speed the angle to the vitals from a treestand How you prepare for the season de- easily enough by adjusting the angle is difficult. It is true that deer’s vital t e r m i ne s how wel l you w i l l ha nd le t he of the rope; you only need to do this a area is basically as wide as it is tall. Mentor s a nd exper t s have schooled challenging shots that the rut dishes whitetail bowhunters from the day few times each fall to get the feel for But that doesn’t mean it is just as ac- out. Here are some tips to help you moving shots. cessible from above as it is from the they bought their first bow into think- fine-t une both your mental and physi- ing of deer hunting as a 20-yard sport. The Chip Shot side. From a treestand, you have to cal execution on tough shots this fall. A friend of mine missed a giant penetrate a thick mass of bone and We heard repeatedly that the shots The Moving Shot would mostly be 20 yards, that we buck la st Nove mbe r at ju st 15 ya rd s. He muscle in order to reach the lungs, Suppose a buck comes cruising estimated the buck at 160 inches, and and there is a high possibility of only should set our stands 20 yards from past your stand at a steady walk. He the trail, from the scrape, from the he justifiably felt terrible about it for a hitting one lung. On close shots, the will pass 15 yards away. Will you stop long time. Well he got to feeling a bit best angle occurs on deer that begin rub line, from the funnel etc. You get him for the shot, or will you shoot him the idea – it’s a 20-yard sport. But worse on opening day of gun season to walk away. At this point you can walking? Now suppose the shooting when his buddy shot it and it actually aim back just a little bit and angle the even with this beat into our heads, lanes on that side of the tree are very it may turn out that the experts have grossed at over 180 inches and netted arrow through the liver into the chest narrow because you didn’t expect a in the 170’s. My buddy is a great shot for a sure and quick kill. been wrong all along. Maybe it is not buck to go that way. Will you stop a 20-yard sport. with a bow and has taken many very The shooting angle of these short him now? This is reality in the fall good bucks over the years, but he ones also effects shooter form. Few I went back over the last 25 bucks woods. Now is the time to answer that I’ve tagged to see how far I have missed a chip shot nonetheless. And bowhunters ever practice short shots these important questions. he did it at a bad time. It can happen from stand height to get comfortable been shooting. My average distance Much of the serious whitetail is just over 25 yards. My shortest shot to anyone if you let your guard down bending their waists as fully as they hunting takes place during the rut. It and take the short shots for granted. should to create the needed 90-degree was 10 feet, or 3-plus yards from the is realistic to expect a buck to walk base of my tree, and my longest was Trust me… I know! angle between their upper body and past your treestand and never slow It’s easy to get sloppy on short shots. bow arm when the angle is steep. The 46 yards. Wondering if I was normal, down. Worse, he may come ripping I did an informal poll of 5 of my most I did that a couple of years ago, too, on tendency is to lower the bow arm through chasing a doe like a thor- a very big 8-pointer. He was 12 yards without bending at the waist, a bad serious and successful bowhunting oughbred horse at the finish line. You friends to find out what kinds of shots broadside, but he surprised me on a habit. It takes practice to ensure that must decide whether you will take a trail behind my stand and was part you’ll be ready for short shots. There they’ve been taking. moving shot. These hu nters spend a lot of time in way through my shooting lane before is no such thing as a gimme in the Most bowhunters elect to stop I got on him. I rushed the easy shot deer woods. the woods all over North America, so every moving deer, and that is not I figured their input would be a good and punched the trigger before the bow The Long Shot a bad decision, definitely the most settled into place. That buck looked During the 2010 season, I hunted a cross-section of the distances that conservative approach. But, there will serious deer hunters are shooting. By like a cow he was so big, yet I missed massive-antlered buck for 10 days but be a few bucks during your lifetime him clean, just under his brisket. never got him within bow range. The the time I was done with my research. that get away as a result. They will I had more than 90 shots represented T hat wa s one i ncide nt whe n I shou ld neighbor finally shot the deer from a either spook at the grunt or jump the have broken with my normal routine stand a quarter mile away from were in total. These were all successful string after you’ve put them on alert. shots, because it would have been too a nd g r u nt e d t o st op t he de e r. He wou ld I had been hunting. He made a great I always try to shoot them walking have paused long enough for me to 36-yard shot. I was nearly as happy depressing to ask these guys about whenever possible for these very their misses. regain my composure and get the pin as if I had shot the bruiser myself. reasons. But that is just my take. I’ve settled. But I didn’t. I figured there was The average distance of these 90 practiced moving shots a lot and am shots came about to be 18.6 yards. no way I could miss such a short shot. very comfortable with them. This The fact that I missed that shot at See Monteleone Page 9 Now we are right back to the same decision is full of tradeoffs for every assertion by the experts that whitetail bowhunter. hunting is a 20-yard game. However, A shooting lane should be a least 6 Macrotech there is a lot more in these numbers feet wide to offer a good chance that that the average. When you look at the buck will stop in the open for a Archery Pro Shop the extremes the average shortest shot clear shot when you grunt or whistle wa s 4.1 ya rd s for eve r yone que st ione d at him. If they take one more step or and the average longest shot was 40.1 don’t hear you at first, you will have yards. a problem if the lane is any narrower. You quickly see that successful Here is the process I use when bowhunters are killing big bucks on deciding whether to stop a walking average at distances between 4 and 40 5826 Ritchie Hwy. - Baltimore, MD 21225 • 410-789-7777 • 1/2 mile North of Beltway Exit 3-A buck. If the buck is moving faster than Authorized dealer for... yards. Rather that a 20-yard game, it is a steady walk, or if he is further than more like a 4 to 40-yard game. When 15 to 20 yards away, I always stop the INTERNATIONAL preparing for the season, it is best to animal first. In addition, I pass up all BOW prepare with that in mind. Focus on all moving shots when visibility is less TUNING the realistic shots you will and prob- than perfect, like early and late in the Special Tooling for ably face and don’t be forced into only day. Finally, I did n’t st ar t to t ake mov- Professional INSTRUCTOR pr a ct ici ng for t he ave r age 20 -ya rd shot. ing shots until I had practiced them Installation of ALL Now, I’m going to take this one thoroughly and became very comfort- Drop Away Rests! step further and look back over the able with my aim point and impact number of bucks that were moving point for various walking speeds. FREE Bow Check-Up One of Maryland’s either right before I stopped them for When dealing with small openings, Bow Tuning & Repairs on Premises Complete Largest heated & the shot, or still moving when I shot. I’ve found that it is easier to aim at the Laser Tuning System Air Conditioned Of the last 36 bucks that I’ve shot at, opening and time the arrival of the www.macrotecharchery.com INDOOR BOW RANGES 24 were moving. I stopped just two of buck rather than try to swing my bow MACRO KNOW BOWS those because they were too far away with the deer and time the opening. 8 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 Just because you can shoot 40 doesn’t Monteleone … mean you should. Even with excellent shooting form, 40-yard shots are only Continued from Page 8 ethical under the best of conditions. T he shot h a s t o be cle a r a nd t he a n i m al must be at a good angle, motionless I’m glad he had been practicing at and not on alert. You must know the long-range during breaks before the distance to the exact yard. season, and he had shooting lanes out Two things will help you shoot bet- to 40 yards. ter at 40 yards. Do at least half of your If he had been less disciplined in practicing at 50 and 60 yards. After a his approach, that buck would have few weeks of long-range shooting, a gotten away. Bucks like that don’t 40-yard shot seems routine. Second, come along very often in a lifetime. focus on all aspects of the shot, but It is worth doing whatever you can to e sp e cial ly t he slow t r ig ge r sque eze a nd make every opportunity count. the follow-through. They are critical to By expanding your maximum long r a nge a ccu r a cy. Ke e p eve r y t h i ng range, the area you can cover around perfectly relaxed and steady until the your treestand increases much faster. arrow hits. A bowhunter who feels comfortable You’re not ready until you can put shooting out to 30 yards can cover 2, all your arrows into a 5-inch diameter 827 square yards. Sounds like a lot circle at 40 yards. Since most deer have doesn’t it? But, he can increase his area a kill zone that’s 8-inches in diameter, of coverage to 5027 square yards - an this allows a little margin for error on increase of 78 percent – by extend- your part. Chalk it up to buck fever, but ing his maximum range to 40 yards. we never shoot as well under pressure When bucks are moving through the as we do in the backyard. woods almost randomly, increasing Those are the money shots, and you your coverage by 78 percent is a should practice them until you have tremendous advantage. mastered all three of them. We head Based on my experience and that of into each season with hope that the the hunters I polled for this article, 40 buck of a lifetime will show up this Captain Brian Councell with his two favorite anglers, yards appears to be a realistic maxi- year. Someday it will happen. mum range for serious bowhunters The ability to capitalize when it his sons, Jacob and Kirby Councell. who practice a lot. Any time you set does requires that you be able to make Captain Brian runs the Charter Boat Sea Dux out of out to i nc rea se you r r a nge you need to the kinds of shots that you are most ke e p a ve r y t ig ht rei n on shot sele ct ion. likely to face during this exciting time. Kentmoor Marina on Kent Island and Rock Hall.

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Today Ketchikan, AK. from Carroll County that the big box stores and corporate was a perfect sunny and 60 degrees. Maryland to Chicago. food chains had taken over the coun- Perfect for camping. I set camp on an By Andy Aughenbaugh I have heard it said try, leaving it sterile and boring with Island in Devils Lake ND. For dinner that the east coast is just one big each town and cross roads being the I had venison Kabasa that was shot large suburb running from New York same as the last. But after my stop and made in Maryland, smothered in Day 1 to Richmond. After today’s drive I at Gronk’s, I have restored hope for a barbeque sauce from Gronk’s Grill Thursday April 19, 2012 would tend to agree. The outlining this country maintaining some kind in Wisconsin and cooked over a fire The multiple possible quotes and neighborhoods of Chicago eerily look of regional individuality. in North Dakota. cliché sayings to start this journey the same as the suburban homes cir- Minutes after crossing Lake Supe- Day 5 fill my mind. We’ve all heard them, cling the Baltimore beltway. rior and out of Duluth, the mountains Monday April 23, 2012 but do we really hear and take action. The Appalachian Mountains have of the North Woods turned the rain The pre-sun rise temperature hung Well, thanks to a few close friends been my escape for many years, and it into a wet snow. I pulled off to the in the low thirties. I woke to the I’ve mustered the strength to take this is with some trepidation, I leave them side of the road and texted those back sounds of whistling wood ducks. crazy journey. behind. The Ohio valley with its’ in Maryland, “Snow in Minn.” Today’s destination – Theodore At 2:53 PM on Thursday April rolling green pastures, and wooded I explored the back roads of the Roosevelt National Grasslands. I’ve 19, 2012 I left Westminster, MD and valleys, reminds me of a large Carroll Chippewa National forest. Snow fell read most of his books, and The began the 3,500 mile trek across the County. Since leaving Westminster, in the white birch forest. The win- Ranchman was written about this country. Yes, at the age of 45, I quit the smell of spring has been rolling tery scene was quite different from very place. my professional career, loaded my 17 in the open truck window. The deep the early spring blooms of Maryland. However, not much planning went year old pickup truck full of camping lush greens of spring grass have been By day’s end, I entered Grand Forks into the trip. For a reason, I guess. gear, kayak and clothes, and am off to accentuated with the bright colors of North Dakota, at which time, the I wanted to leave my options open, Alaska for summer employment. a blooming spring - a time of renewal winds blew 30 MPH and the tempera- exploring as things came my way. So, For the next twelve days or so, I and rebirth. ture was quickly falling through the with little to go on, other than a state will be making my way across the The long seemingly endless miles 30’s. Ok, so I wimped out, and looked map and a full tank of gas, I embarked northern reaches of this grand coun- of express toll roads are coming to an for a hotel room instead of setting up to my next destination. try of ours, stopping here and there end tomorrow. I’ve put in my miles the tent. Only one problem the local I took to dirt roads the map said to explore. Then once almost to and now it is time to slow down, in- High schools were gathered in town would lead to the National Park. The the western edge; I’ll turn right into vestigate, explore and learn, maybe for some kind of sports tournament first road led to a dead end at a se- Canada for another 1200 miles to not only about my surroundings, but and there were no available rooms. I cluded ranch along the Little Missouri Ketchikan AK. in turn, about myself. pushed on to the next town. River. No worry there was another Wow, just what have I gotten my- Day 3 Day 4 dirt track to follow. This one led to self into? I don’t know, but it’s going Saturday April 21, 2012 Sunday April 22, 2012 the southern unit of the park and after to quite the adventure. The day started bright with the low I never made it out of North Dakota traveling more than 100 miles on dirt Day 2 early morning sunlight eliminating today. roads, I entered the park. Along the Friday April 20, 2012 the white birch trees and red barns in It all started as I was running full way, I spotted pronghorn antelope, As often is the case with our life a warm glow. However, the tranquil- speed, when I decided to take a detour. mule deer, and just inside the park I journey, we sometimes have to drive ity of a morning sunrise was soon in I’m glad I did. I found the landscape was greeted by a few bison. I never long distances of interstate to reach a the forgotten miles. By the time I littered with small pot holes filled worthy destination. The big event of entered into Superior Wisconsin, rain with waterfowl. From the standard the day was making it through Chi- fell from a grey sky. mallards to pintails, coots, red heads, See Aughenbaugh Page 11 cago’s traffic. I’ve driven Baltimore / Lunch time arrived as I drove down Washington DC traffic for more than Route 53 in Superior WI. I found twenty years, just more the same. Gronk’s Grill. A bass boat hung from “More of the same” I guess I could the ceiling. A massive Northern Pike say that about much of the drive hung over the door and a light pole

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Today Russell Area of Montana. After visit- section of the pass that was open to Roosevelt fame. I made it. The big blue sign along ing some landmarks explaining details traffic, I spotted about 50 Elk feed- Late in the afternoon, I found a route 94 marked my arrival. I now of the Lewis and Clark expedition, I ing in a meadow. Elk hold a special campground and set camp for another understand why they call it Big Sky turned my truck west and continued draw representing the west for me. I night. country. It truly is. my own journey. cannot totally explain it, but Elk are Today I learned that even with a Arriving at the Charles Russell While traveling along route 2 at the western states for me and the trip well laid out plan and a map to guide National Wildlife Refuge, I set camp 70 MPH, covering the miles quickly would not be complete without at least you, sometimes the road turns from on the banks of Fort Peck Lake. It was and looking forward to the shower one sighting. Now I just need to see asphalt to gravel. The travel may slow time to explore. that awaited me at the days end, I a grizzly. some, but this only allowed me to slow The fresh smell of sage filled the could only imagine the hardship and Driving along the southern edge of down and take in the sights. Sights I windows of the truck. With the Old conditions the Lewis and Clark team Glacier and the only open pass, I enter would have missed if I was traveling Toyota, I explored the endless hori- experienced, walking and paddling into Lewis and Clark National Park. at 70 MPH. Maybe life’s travels could zons, gazing out over the coulees and through the same area. The Toyota sees a forest access road be handled the same? wind swept sandstone cliffs from the I reached Cut Bank Montana and makes a hard left across the road Day 6 jeep trails. At sunset the mule deer around 4:00 pm. I had intended to and onto the gravel. A map posted at Tuesday April 24, 2012 emerged to feed. travel a little farther into the next the access entrance outlines the trails. Day 6 awoke with bright sun and Even with all that I experienced town, but when I asked about that It is 4:00 PM; I’ve got a few hours mallards flying up the Little Missouri today, it was one little item of about town, a local strongly suggested I not until dark, and plenty of time to get to River. The day just got better. 3 feet in length that made my heart spend the night there. Alaska. I lock the hubs, just in case. After breaking down camp, I con- completely miss a few beats. While The local was a young lady who Not far up the incline, wet snow tinued the pilgrimage. Since leaving touring the jeep trails, I stepped out was shaping my new hat brim into my covers the road. With the truck in Westminster, I wanted to stop and of the truck to get a better vantage requested shape. One idea I had when 4x4, I creep onto the snow. Tires spin see where Theodore Roosevelt called overlooking a coulee. As I turned I left Westminster was to purchase a and forward progress halts. I back up home while in North Dakota. I soon to return to the truck, I heard an new hat in Montana. I cannot think and try again with the truck in 4low. discovered the reason I could not find unfamiliar sound, then it registered of a better place to buy a new cowboy I get a little farther before progress is the Elkhorn Ranch yesterday was - Rattle snake! I froze in place only hat. halted. One last attempt, with more because the buildings are no longer moving my eyes to find the noise With the windows down feeling speed, moves the limit of my tracks in there. The site is just a few founda- maker. There he was two feet away. the unseasonal warm weather here the snow a few more feet, but again, tions of what was once there - just as I froze. I thought about what to do, in Montana, and the radio off, I let I’m denied. Looking over the situa- he laid the foundation for modern day as this was my first encounter with my mind wander. The passenger seat tion, I could lower the tire pressure, wildlife conservation. a rattler. I remembered that I had is cluttered with maps, camera, bin- give it a real run, and push it up the But even more impressive, behind packed my snakebite kit in the truck. oculars, notebook and snacks. I have trail, but I don’t. Too far from home, the visitor center was a small cabin – Good, I thought. The rattler took one found that being organized is not the too far yet to go, and stuck in the real his cabin on his first visit to North Da- last look at me, and I swear we made same as being neat. wilds of the Rockies with a storm kota. He had left New York for a few eye contact. He then turned and went Tomorrow I’m exploring Glacier coming does not sound too smart for days of Buffalo hunting, fell in love his own way. I slowly backed away National Park. They are calling for a solo traveler. with the place and stayed to start his and made a big circle of the area. For possible rain and snow tomorrow. I guess being adventures can be own ranch. To say I was in awe to be the rest of the evening, I kept one eye We’ll just have to wait and see what fun, but knowing one’s limits can keep comes when it comes. That mindset you alive, or at least from spending a has been the mantra of this trip. I had miserable night stuck in the snow. planned very little for this trip. Only Twenty minutes later, a thunder- a few must do’s formulated the trip. storm pushes trough the lower eleva- So far this plan of attack has work tions in West Glacier Montana. Thompson Safe Company well. Maybe the same would work Day 9 well toward an outlook on life? Set Friday April 27, 2012 Protect Your Investment far reaching goals. Work generally Leaving West Glacier, eighty miles in that direction. Accept what comes to Canada. I crossed the Canadian Residential and Commercial Safes along the way and deal with the small Border without incident. I had heard tasks as they appear. stories that the crossing could be dif- 7313-M Grove Road • Frederick, MD 21704 Day 8 ficult, but after only a few questions, Mike Thursday April 26, 2012 and declaring my two guns with the A few miles out of Cut Bank Mon- proper paper work, I was in Canada. Thompson tana, I pulled to the side of the road, Yes, I brought my shotgun and rifle took a picture with my cell phone, along in hopes I might just get in a 301-631-1500 and texted to friends, “I can see the hunt or two while in Alaska. Rockies!” So far I’ve traveled through the www.thompsonsafes.com It is still winter here. The famous rolling hill farm country of Penn- We Deliver to MD • VA • WV • PA road to the sun through Glacier Na- sylvania and Ohio, the North woods tional Park was closed. I drove into of Minnesota, the pothole region the Park as far as the closed gates of North Dakota, the Grasslands of allowed. A sign at the Two Medicine North Dakota and Montana and the Lake entrance explained the details U.S. side of the Northern Rockies, GUN SHACK / CROSSWINDS of Trick Falls. While thinking of hik- but nothing could have prepared me ing to the falls, a local pulled into the FULL PRO SHOP SALES AND SERVICE for the sights of today. parking lot. Driving along route 93 in Brit- Arrows by Beman, Easton, Gold Tip and Carbon Express • Crossbows & Accessories Jess was hiking back to the falls, ish Columbia and Alberta Canada, about a ½ mile hike, and offered for I traveled through the most majestic Bows & Accessories from: me to join him. Together we hiked the snowcapped mountains one could ever unmarked trail over the snow drifts dream. Around each bend in the road, and through the pines. Two hours a new vista grasped my attention, tak- later, we parted as friends. ing my breath away. Jess suggested I take the hike up to When planning this trip, I paid A Turn of The Century Store: Lower Medicine Lake, and lent me his 101 S. Main St. - Mt. Airy, MD 21771 bear spray for the hike. Yep, this place 301-829-0122 • www.gunshackinc.com is full of grizzlies. They are fresh See Aughenbaugh Page 13 June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 11 Rather they employ these tactics dur- would ease out from the cover. With ing prespawn and again during fall a calm, calculated approach, we lost “Fishin’ Back east” movements when bass are shallow very few fish. and vulnerable to these finesse tricks. I have applied this to local pond Having watched them in action for a fishing near my central Maryland MICRO-LIGHT…FOR BASS? ARE YOU CRAZY? few years now, I decided I, too, could home. Most of the ponds I fish have go super-light, and yes micro-light, on little cover, and playing out a big fish new converts to the sport. Am I wrong bass in my local venues. just takes patience and proper drag to be thinking this way? Am I the only I know that using anything lighter settings. Our favored lures are Senko- one who sees this as poor promotion than 14 pound mono or 30 pound braid styled worms such as 3 and 4.25 inch for a great sport? screams horror to most bass anglers, options from Yamamoto, Yum Ding- By Jim Gronaw Okay, I know…not all the shows but understand there is a time and ers and Stank-X Stix. Small football paint this picture. Recently, I have place for everything. You wouldn’t use head jigs in 1/16th and 1/8th ounce are good choices for smaller 2-inch Historically, most of my angling tubes, along with smaller hairjigs you friends have known me as a bluecol- would use for river smallies. You can lar, multi-species angler who likes to catch some quality bass on smaller fish for bluegills, crappies and perch, crankbaits as well like the Rapala along with heavyweights like blue Floating Minnows #5 and the Strike cats and carp. Yes, I’ll do the put and King Bitsy Minnow. A 6 ½ to 7-½ foot take trout gig in the spring, chase after light action rod will propel baits far high-flying shad and I do like to fish and enable adequate hooksets. Choose for bass, both largemouth and small- a rod that will have some backbone for ies. Most of my bass fishing has come the hookset, yet soft enough on the up- in the form of fishing small ponds and per third of the rod to allow for surges lakes through out the Mason-Dixon from the fish. area as well as millponds and smaller Everybody has a favorite line, but venues in the mid-south. I do not own I have been having good success on a bass boat, nor have I ever fished in with Trout Magnets’ SOS and Sufix any sanctioned, organized tournament Precision Wound Clear Monofilament venue or in any bass fishing competi- in 2, 4 and 6 pound test. Two-pound tion. Neither have I held membership test, you say? Yup, we have been do- in any bass club, or any fishing club, ing the 2-pound bass gig for a few my entire angling carreer. I will be seasons now, and it is great fun, and the first to tell you that the modern challenging! bass angling phenomena has produced As mentioned earlier, there is a many, many outstanding and produc- time and place for micro-lighting tive evolutions in tackle and tactics, bass. You don’t want to do it on bed- not only for just bass fishing, but for ding fish, and you don’t want to do many other types of species as well. Matt Gronaw with a six-pound largemouth taken on micro-gear and 4 it where the cover is just too thick to But there is something that is start- pound line, What a fish! allow it. And you wouldn’t want to do ing to bother me a bit. I have grown it on the lower Potomac, with all the tired of watching all the cable shows been enjoying the episodes of Jarrett micro tactics in super heavy situations pads, weeds and tidal currents that just that depict 275 -pound men skating Edwards Outdoors and other shows to wrestle fish from padfields, heavy wouldn’t work. Fishing the micro gig 1 ½ pound bass across the surface that have featured big-bass guru Bill brush or timber. But you can use it in is not the best for heat –of-the-summer on 50 pound braid. They quickly un- Siemantel from California. Much some cover where hook the fish and toss them back with of Edwards’ and Siemantels’ bass fish can be maneu- heave and hurry right back to catch shows have them fishing for quality- vered to play them the next dink on overmatched tackle. sized largemouths on very light line, out. I know that much of this mentality is notably, 4, 5 and 6 pound monos with Two years ago derived from tournament venues that small finesse baits and panfish sized in November, my require fast and furious fishing to jig heads. They probe the crystal clear, son Matt and I cull the heaviest limit you can within often snag-infested waters of desert fished bass pow- the allotted time frame. And I know lakes throughout the western half of erhouse Rich- too that this is based on competitive the nation. They’re using lighter, and mond Mill Lake angling and the chance to win money longer, spinning rods. They play their in southern North and prestige. But the truth is…this fish out, but not to exhaustion, releas- Carolina, only our type of format makes for very poor ing them quickly. And, it’s not all target specie was TV viewing, and does little to recruit sight fishing for bedding fish, either. giant bluegills that exceeded two- pounds in weight. With our 4 and even 2-pound test TROPHY BAIT AND TACKLE lines, we got the giant bluegills, but were quite often Rockfish Rigs and interrupted with 4 to 6 pound large- Bait All Crabbing mouths on the skimpy gear. With Supplies - water temperature Foxy Mate Topless in the high 50’s Don’t let light lines scare you...most bass won’t be this and bass still ag- big anyway! Live Bait traps - $8.99 & gressive, we sim- Foxy Mate #66 ply eased our boat away from cover angling, either. But it can make for Clam Bags and into open water to play the big some sensational light tackle sport in a $6.99 fish out. Just took a little time, that’s lot of regional lakes and ponds. Where 805 Eastern Blvd. • Baltimore, MD 21211 all. Talk about fun! We actually got most of the bass run from one to three good at it, and when we realized it pounds (which is most places we fish) 410-238-3825 was a bass, not a bluegill hookup, we micro-lighting is a pure blast. 12 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 scanning finds no moose. I arrive! 4,297 miles and ten days the next 5 months. After a few hours of nonstop trav- have passed since I left Westminster. In some ways, the trip went ex- Aughenbaugh … el, I spot a demonstration forest at the I don’t know what to say at this point. tremely fast and in many ways it feels Continued from Page 11 rest stop. I pulled in the parking lot, I guess I should have something pro- like a lifetime ago I was in Westmin- strapped on my bear spray, tossed my found to say summing up the trip of ster commuting to Baltimore daily. little attention to the Canada portion camera bag over my shoulder and go a lifetime, but I’m speechless. Wow, The final days before leaving was of the road. Out of ignorance, I did for a hike. Everything out here is big- what a ride. I saw and experienced a whirlwind of packing and storing not realize or know what was in store ger than back home. I follow Moose so much, it is hard to comprehend. stuff, finishing the preparation of along the 1,200 miles through Cana- scat and tracks along an old fire road I find the ferry port to Ketchikan, the truck and saying the good byes. da. I should have investigated this partially covered in snow. The size AK. It is a ghost town. I returned into Not until I reached the Northwood of route some more. The trip through of the moose signs makes the sign of town and stopped a hotel. Checking Minnesota, did what I was doing re- the Canada National parks in the our whitetails look like mice tracks. the ferry schedule, I find that the ally register, even then I was focused Northern Rockies is worth a trip of The wind direction on the hike next ferry does not run until Tuesday. on the trip on hand, not giving much its own. The ever intense views kept was perfect for stalking moose and Today being Saturday, I’m stuck but a thought about the 5 months ahead on for the day, and before I knew it, I deer, but not so good for grizzlies. I few miles from my final destination at the end of the road. But now as had traveled over 500 miles and been make a mile or so loop through the but will have to wait a few days to I sit on the ferry gazing out at the on the road for 10 hours. forest. It felt good to stretch the legs make the water trip. snowcapped mountains touching the The one thing that really struck and walk around in the woods for a Day 13 ocean, I cannot help but notice the me was the avalanches. Large while. Tuesday, May 1, 2012 other passengers. trees tossed like match sticks laid in Back on the road, I do not go Over the last two days I have The feeling of loneliness overcame mounds at the bottom of the slides. me. I noticed the others travel in While taking a few photos of the groups. I’m 4,000 miles from my slides, I met a Canadian scientist who home, my family, my friends and was recording the movement of the all that is familiar to me. I began to slides. He explained how the forest wonder and question what I am about fires of nine years earlier had weak- to undertake. ened the soils and the root system of the vegetation, thus following years of Quietly I pray. snow melt the ground gives away and slides down the mountain – chang- I over hear a group of college aged ing the landscape forever. We both students talk of their jobs of the sum- looked at the total apparent devasta- mer and their excitement is catchy. A tion, but at the same time realized and little while later I step outside of the discussed how this changing of the ferry to take photos of a light house mountain landscape often mirrors our on a rocky island. A passenger stand- own lives sometimes, and through ing next to me opened a conversation. time what now appears to be total loss In a few minutes, I am sharing my really is a new beginning. photographs of my recent travels. Day 10 On his way to Alaska, Andy stops for a pose with the Rockies behind him. They told stories of past summers. Saturday April 28, 2012 We exchange stories of what has Six hundred and fifty two miles too far before spotting another trail explored the town of Prince Rupert, brought us here, and I quickly feel as to go. The trip is almost to a close. beckoning to be explored. This time the surrounding woods and waters, if I am among likeminded people. A I’m eager to complete the drive and I drove the truck down the muddy even paddling the Kayak in a tidal feeling sometimes missed back home. begin the next stage of my adventure trail. It soon becomes snow covered bay. But today is the day - the day I For the next five months, I will be – summer employment as a guide in and once again my exploration is make the final stage of the trek across working as a trail guide in Alaska. Alaska. cut short. No need to push it too far the continent and arrive in Alaska. I What my life beyond that has in store, Elk and Mule deer feed in the back and get the truck really stuck. board the ferry at 8:00 AM. The ferry I do not know. I do know my life is green pastures along the early morn- I backed out and pushed on toward ride will last five hours. A time to in God’s hands and with him I’ll be ing drive. Every few miles, signs Prince Rupert, BC. reflect of the last 12 days and ponder taking this walk. warn of crossing moose, my hard

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Jonathon Mason and company got in on the Yellowfin and Dolphin bite in late May out of Ocean City.

June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 13 Bananas and Suitcases -- Fishing Folklore Two of the most enduring crab that originated during that time is Suitcases onboard is boat superstitions have to do with, that bananas will cause a boat to a fishing boat no-no as of all things, bananas and suit- sink. This belief developed after well. Even when cam- cases. In both cases, these items are many boats never made it to their era crew boarded crab strictly forbidden onboard. destinations, and all of the doomed boats to film Discovery Many charter fishing boat crews boats were carrying bananas. Channel’s reality series have steadfast restrictions about One of the creepier superstitions “Deadliest Catch,” they bringing bananas on the boat. In were asked to leave their fact, they’ll return to the dock to equipment suitcases on purge the offending fruit. Some the dock. charters go so far as to prohibit The origins of the Banana Boat brand sunscreen or suitcase superstition are Banana Republic brand clothes murky, and the supersti- onboard. Fishermen have even tion has variations. For been known to object to Fruit of example, some sailors the Loom underwear (one sport are superstitious of all fisher claimed he’s treated wearers luggage; some only ban to wedgies and then cut the labels black suitcases and bags. out). Oddly enough, the Fruit of the But everyone seems to Loom graphic doesn’t even have agree that a suitcase is a banana on it, and some say the a harbinger of death or banana was left off because of this is that banana cargo could actually illness. Black bags are modern understanding of science very superstition. kill a man. In actuality, ferment- considered bad because black is and weather patterns, we still There are many theories on why ing bananas do give off methane the color of death and a metaphor perceive the sea as a mysterious people believe bananas are bad luck gas, which could conceivably get for the depths of the dark, cold sea. and treacherous place. Beliefs and for a boat. One superstition is that trapped below deck and kill any Some fisherman say that travel bags superstitions are passed down from boats carrying bananas don’t catch crew members unlucky enough to resemble body bags, another obvi- generation to generation, from fish- fish. The origin of this belief dates be working in the hold. Another ous symbol of death. erman to fisherman, and it’s a brave back to the Caribbean trade of the popular theory was that venomous Why do crab boat captains and sailor who turns his (or her) back on 1700s. The wooden sailing boats spiders hitched rides in bananas, crew hang on to these supersti- tradition. Would you be willing to of that time had to move quickly to and once those bananas were on- tions? Probably for the same reason see what happens when you reject deliver bananas before they spoiled, board, the boat would be host to any the superstitions began. Even with a centuries-old superstition? and fishermen had a hard time troll- number of lethal critters. And then, ing for fish on such fast-moving of course, there’s the theory that boats, which is how the superstition banana peels cause crew members Potomac River monster cats tournament trail is on came about. Another superstition to slip and fall on deck. The Potomac River Monster Cats (PRMC) tournament trail was started in 2012 by Joe Sanbower, Jacob Lehman, and Greg Belknap. It was created to provide anglers of all skills levels a competitive, yet friendly, environment by which to enjoy the NOW OPEN – 7 days a week excellent blue catfishing afforded by the tidal 110 Pier One Rd., Stevensville, MD 21666 Potomac River. Turn right at light on Pier One Rd, off Rt 8, 1/8 mile south of Bay There have been five PRMC tournaments to date. The next tournament will occur on Bridge, before airport. Rear entrance near Ace Allen’s Automotive. August 11th from 7 pm to 7 am and will be held out of the Fort Washington Marina. Be sure to visit the PRMC web site at www.po- New Items tomacrivermonstercats.com for information about past and future tournaments or contact Dallas Snoke with a 55lb. for 2012 Season Joe Sanbower at 410-984-0139. catfish.

410-604-2663 8- 6 Daily BIG Bloodworms, Ice, Tackle for Chesapeake Bay Fishing Bait After Hours - Matapeake Fishing Pier Mr. Sonny with his 45 in striper caught with Capt. Rob of Jim Dandy Bait Machine Charters off Tilghman Island. 14 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 New Pennsylvania state record Elk confirmed The largest elk ever recorded in Pennsylvania, a bull taken by a lucky hunter in 2011, has been confirmed as the new state record. The official declaration was made today by the Boone and Crockett Club. An official measurer deter- mined a final score of 442-6/8 B&C non-typical points, which ranks 9th among all non-typical elk in Boone and Crockett records. The bull has nine points on the right antler and eight on the left. The antlers tally 190-3/8 on the right and 188-1/8 on the left, Today there are 10 Pennsylvania with 47-7/8 inside spread and 29-7/8 bulls recognized in Boone and Crock- in abnormal points. The antlers are ett records. Seven are non-typical elk unusually wide—an impressive 69 with a minimum score of 385; three inches at their widest point. are typical elk with a minimum score The Boone and Crockett scoring of 360. All have been taken since Tripp and Alex- system is based on antler size and 2003. ander Evans with symmetry, and accepts only trophies The new Pennsylvania record hold- taken in fair chase. their first rockfish er, William Zee of Doylestown, Pa., Since the early 1900s, the Boone was hunting in Clearfield County, Pa. of the 2012 spring and Crockett scoring system has been “Congratulations to Mr. Zee, and season. used to measure the success of wild- especially to the Pennsylvania Game life conservation and management Commission for its work building one programs across North America. of America’s most up-and-coming elk Elk are native to Pennsylvania but herds,” said Eldon Buckner, chairman had been extirpated by the late 1870s. of the Club’s Records of North Ameri- Hunters and game commissioners in can Big Game committee. 1912 began discussing the idea of re- The previous Pennsylvania state introducing the species. The following record for non-typical American elk year, a shipment of 50 elk arrived by was a bull scoring 441-6/8 taken in train from Yellowstone National Park. 2006 in Clinton County by hunter Half were released in Clinton County, John Shirk. half in Clearfield County. It was the Since the Zee bull is a Top 10 entry, beginning of a long elk restoration and its score will be panel-verified during habitat conservation effort that by the the Boone and Crockett Club’s trien- late 1990s would begin to generate nial awards program in Reno, Nev., significant tourism, wildlife watching next year. and, of course, hunting opportunities.

Captain Mitch Quillen in his new white boots was all smiles as his youngest Nick Tegges with a nice gobbler sporting a 10 inch beard from Caroline Mitchell reeled in this nice striper. Delaney supervised the action. county. June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 15 Island Queen Inland Charters Chincoteague Island Inland Bay fishing for flounder, whiting, & croaker on board our new 26 ft. Tri-toon Pontoon Boat. All bait and fishing tackle supplied or bring your own. Captain Charlie is experienced with over 35 years fishing the inland waters of Chincoteague Island. Fishing Trips 8:00 AM - Noon or 1 - 5 PM or can be customized as well. Cost $55.00 PP with a minimum of two people. Captain Charlie Koski - 2246 Curtis Merritt Rd., Slip # 16 Chincoteague Island, Va 23336 Phone: (757) 336-3528 or (757) 990-2404 Email: [email protected]

Jim Helvitch and friend Bob from Pasadena managed three keepers measuring from 17” - 19” on Friday May 4. They also caught a few snapper bluefish. Kingfish aka Sea Mullet/Whiting will be moving in by the end of May.The flounder bite is only getting better with each passing day.

Dawn White with her first deer shot during opening day of shotgun season. The mount was finished by Whitetail Studios. Photo courtesy of Gun Shack.

16 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 West Virginia revises deer hunting rules to cut population Charleston, W.Va. (AP) - West least one deer must be antlerless. Virginia is giving hunters incen- The Charleston Gazette reports Fishbones bait and tackle inc. tives to kill female deer instead that the changes are part of new of bucks in a move to reduce the hunting regulations approved 4729 mountain road - Pasadena, MD 21122 animal's population. Sunday. • Fresh The state Natural Resources Another change is a statewide Live Bait 410-360-0573 Commission has created a new bag limit of seven deer during ur- ALEWIVES three-day firearm season for ant- ban hunting seasons. The regula- SOFT CRABS lerless deer in late October, before tion replaces municipal bag limits PEELERS mating season. that varied from town to town. RAZOR CLAMS The commission also has in- Only two bucks can be killed • Crabbing Supplies creased the number of deer hunters during an urban season. The rest • Rods, Reels, Lures - Lure Making Supplies can kill from one to two a day. At must be antlerless deer. • Complete Line of Marine & Boating Supplies LIVE BAIT! • EXIDE Marine Battery Distributor...& Much Much More!

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18 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 NEW World Record MOUNTAIN GOAT A Rocky Mountain goat taken by lation and trophy-class specimens a hunter in 2011 in British Columbia have been trending upward each is the largest of its species ever re- decade since the 1970s. That testifies corded, according to the Boone and to the professionalism of the British Crockett Club. Columbia Ministry of Forests, Lands Club officials confirmed the goat, and Natural Resource Operations.” a male that scored 57-4/8 Boone and The new World’s Record goat sur- Crockett points, as a new World’s passed the old mark by a substantial Record. 6/8 of an inch. Since 1906, the Boone and Crock- The previous record was actually ett Club’s scoring system has been a tie between two British Columbia used to measure the success of con- goats, one taken in 1949 and the other servation programs across North in 1999, scoring 56-6/8. America. The system rewards antler Troy M. Sheldon of Alexandria, and horn size and symmetry—classic Kentucky, bagged the new record symbols of outstanding habitat, strong goat on the seventh day of a hunt recruitment of animals into older age in the Stikine River area. Sheldon’s classes, sustainable harvest objectives friend Carey Renner and guide Heidi and other elements of sound wildlife Gutfrucht of Northwest Ranching and management and fair-chase hunting. Outfitting accompanied him on the More than a thousand Rocky hunt. He used a Tikka T3 .270 WSM Mountain goats from Alaska to Ne- to make a perfect 319-yard shot across vada have met the minimum Boone a ravine. and Crockett score of 47. But by far Following a required drying peri- the most entries (541) have come from od and initial scoring, a special Boone British Columbia. and Crockett judge’s panel verified “British Columbia continues to the goat’s official entry score as a new Troy Sheldon, of Alexandria, Kentucky, set the standard for Rocky Mountain World’s Record. goats,” said Eldon Buckner, chairman Sheldon will be invited to include of Boone and Crockett Club’s Records his trophy in a public exhibition held poses with the record-breaking Rocky of North American Big Game Com- as part of Boone and Crockett’s 28th mittee. “The province remains home Awards Program in Reno, Nev., next Mountain goat he shot in the Stikine River to more than half of the world’s popu- year. area of B.C. Oct. 8, 2011. Maryland youth hunter education challenge announces dates The 2012 Maryland Youth Hunter Education Challenge will be held again this year on June 16th and 17th at the Potomac Fish and Game Club in Williamsport, Maryland. This annual event saw over 100 kids partici- pate in 8 outdoor and shooting events. This year we are looking to have a similar number of kids and anticipate another great year. Come check it out or volunteer if you would like, contact coordinator Lee Esworthy at [email protected] .

Jacob Zieber has the spring trophy citation he has been looking for. He was aboard the Canvasback with Captain Bob Ritchie at the helm this past Ed Sullivan with his nice spring Turkey taken on the Eastern Shore spring. of Maryland.. June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 19 Turkey Tip: Resist the urge to stalk turkey sounds. It is nearly impossible to sneak up on a turkey. It is also unethical and Even the dog has to admire Craig “Pole” Gagalski of Rock Hall, could lead to an accident. MD. this past spring with his two beautiful Toms. “Pole” shot one with a crossbow and one with a compound bow.

Mason Heinefield is the man, with this double header catfish on a top and bottom rig.

20 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 Robert Hood with a very impressive rainbow Trout caught in Early April. 26 1/2” - 10lbs. 1 oz. - 18 1/2” girth. Photo Courtesy of Clyde’s Sport Shop

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June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 21 that will never be experienced from an holes, and every time you pull them It wasn’t until I heard “we see them X-Box game or a computer monitor. out their boots will come off. Kids eating it” that I got off my butt, walked But sportsmen who take youngsters can have trouble keeping quiet, still, to the back of the boat to see what was out hunting or fishing must also keep and focused for long periods of time as going on. I was amazed to find two in mind that their own pri- they wait for game to come or fish to 4-foot dusky sharks happily snapping Coastal Report orities will probably have to bite. They will learn to overcome these up every bait the kids were dropping be altered to accommodate setbacks, but in the meantime adults overboard. I walked into the cabin and their apprentice tag-a-longs. Rather must be patient, take it all in stride, told their father that he needn’t worry By Capt. Mark Sampson than worrying so much about the and do their best to make a child’s time about his kids being frightened by big outcome (what is caught or killed), the outdoors as comfortable and enjoyable bluefish. Most sportsman will agree that time focus of the day must fall more on the as possible. Adults should look for the chance spent in the woods or on the water is total experience and lessons learned Sportsmen must also be prepared and welcome every opportunity to as necessary to their own health (and by going through the motions. Sure, for odd reactions by children who don’t take a youngster along their outdoor perhaps sanity) as anything else in a child would like to shoot a bunch of always know what to do as events un- adventures and remember that, un- life. Getting out and about in the natu- ducks or catch a stringer of flounder, fold. A friend told me about taking his like so many of us “old folks,” a fun ral world tends to put many of life’s but even if they don’t your can bet son along him while bow hunting one time outside for kids doesn’t require problems into perspective; it calms the that they’re going to have a ball try- morning. The little guy sat very quietly that there be a hard and fast goal like spirit, and relieves our daily stress. Of ing. They’ll also be ready to go again in the tree stand with his father until catching a cooler full of fish or shoot- course, those with a home and family the first chance they’re given, unless a huge buck deer stepped into view. ing bunch of game. Certainly children know that time-off from work doesn’t perhaps some adult paints the outing Suddenly he jumped up and shouted, will get a kick out of that too, but they necessarily translate to time spent as unsuccessful and a lousy time just “There’s one dad!” Needless to say can also have very memorable times with rod or gun in hand. Far too many because they didn’t “get anything.” “dad” could only sit and watch as one of poking around local marshes, explor- responsibilities follow the family-man Taking a child along on a hunting the biggest deer he’d ever seen turned ing woodlots, going for a boat ride, or or woman around to allow them to go or fishing trip requires that adults slow tail and ran off. Fortunately my friend hiking down the beach. In other words directly from work to play. down and be ready to exhibit extra had the good sense not to get mad at - just getting outside. Happily, enjoying outdoor recre- measures of patience and tolerance. his son, using the experience instead Remember too the inescapable fact ations and spending time with our Try as they might, young children as a way to explain how easily a deer that someday we’ll all be “too old” to children need not be mutually exclu- simply cannot keep up with, or endure, will react to a yelling, screaming, and go fishing or hunting by ourselves, sive passions. Combining the two can so much of what adults can - simply jumping six year old. and when we reach that stage of our lead to rewards far beyond anything because they’re small. Children get A while back I had a group book my lives we’ll be hoping that our children anyone can achieve by going it solo. cold easier, get tired quicker, and hun- charter boat for a day of bluefishing. or grandchildren will remember how Adults who have helped children along gry more often. Among them were a couple of young many times we took them along on to the day that they catch their first In order to keep up with an adult’s children. Their father was a hoping that such trips and reciprocate by taking fish, or take their first game, know the normal walking pace, a small child the sight of a big bluefish would not the time and making the effort to do immense satisfaction derived from must walk twice as fast. Their little frighten either of his children. As we the same for us. introducing a youngster to a part of life feet will constantly get stuck in muddy waited for the chum to attract some- Finally, there’s no need for anglers thing to our hooks, the kids passed their to leave their kids at the dock just time playing with the small baitfish we because they enjoy the fun and com- had laying in a bucket of ice at the back petition of tournament fishing. This of the boat. After a while they started summer there’s at least four Ocean periodically dropping a bait overboard City tournaments that either have and staring into the water as it sank out youth divisions or are directed at kids of sight - or so we thought. altogether: “Better not throw all our bait over- June14-16, Ocean City Shark Tour- board or we won’t have any left to fish nament, Ocean City Fishing Center, with.” I said, as another piece hit the ocsharktournament.com water. July 21 & 22, 8th Annual Kids “We’re feeding the sharks” one Classic, Ocean City Marlin Club, oc- replied. marlinclub.com “But that’s our bluefish bait.” I re- September 9, Bahia Marina Floun- minded them. der Pounder, bahiamarina.com “Sharks like it too,” Another one September 11, 11th Annual Memo- said. rial Spot Tournament, Ocean City “What makes you so sure?” Fishing Center, ocfishing.com

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22 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 Congratulations to Joey Dalto (above) of Mechanicsburg, PA, who landed this Palamino Lunker while fishing on the Loyalsock Creek, near Barbours, in Sullivan County, PA. And (right) is Adam Jones who volunteered to clean the day's catch in preparation for the evening's Trout Camp Feast!

David Beacham’s first Gobbler weighing in at 23 lbs. with a 11’ beard 1 1/8 inch spurs. With a little help from Casey Clatt. Photo courtesy of Chad Reese

June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 23 Mid-Bay Report problem is that a source of supply has the Bay would receive high marks if never been exploited. Pound netters a water quality survey were taken in Main Bay them down and eventually injures catch them by the millions but they June this year. trollers will them fatally. Large spot, 7 inches are not equipped to market them alive. Oysters, clear water, underwater be hanging and up, though lively on the hook, are The best way for anglers to catch grass beds, and now an historical high up their gear often rejected by smaller stripers. menhaden is with the cast net. It is number of blue crab were discovered during June Since spot grow fast and the right an easily mastered skill, especially in the winter survey. Wouldn’t it be as live-lining size occurs in such a narrow part when menhaden schools are plentiful. nice if the Bay was also blessed with becomes the of their lifespan, we find that their It doubles as an equally good tool for a good hatch of menhaden to feed our most popular availability is limited even when the catching spot. Rockfish will not pass starving rockfish. form of striper overall population is plentiful. By up a live menhaden and will slurp up Last year’s record striped bass in- fishing. Much late summer, almost all of them are fresh dead ones in a pinch. dex will be depending on small prey of the success too large. There are never two year Rockfishing in the estuaries like other than menhaden until they reach of live-lining classes that contain fish in the “right the Big Choptank will start the regular at least 12 inches in length. Right now, By Chuck Prahl depends on the size” category. season with fair numbers of 18”-plus most of them are less than 10 inches. availability of Though white perch are a strong fish. They do get scarce as warm I caught a few in May that were less spot. Not just second choice, they are not a soft- weather progresses but some are avail- than 7 inches. spot, but the right sized spot. finned fish and are often passed over able throughout the summer. The se- They will be feeding heavily on Really tiny spot are poor bait be- by stripers. Menhaden in late summer cret is to try them early and late. One anchovies, silversides, and grass cause the large (4/0 – 7/0) hook slows are a great replacement for spot. The of my angling partners likes surface shrimp but when they begin to feed plugs from sundown on. Dedicated on menhaden their health and growth shallow water anglers turn up strip- are dependent on an adequate supply ers even when most fishermen think this high calorie fish. Some of the they’ve left the river. groups that will be determining how Live bait bottom fishermen turn the new menhaden harvest restrictions their attention to hardhead, spot, and should be implemented suggest that white perch. If you know where there the health of the striped bass should is some live oyster bottom you’ll find be the determining factor. all of the above in abundance. There In other words, when we see less has been some resurgence in oysters disease, lesions, and skinny rockfish over the last few years. I’m seeing we’ll know that nutritional needs are them in places that have been devoid being answered. We can’t allow last of them for 10 years. year’s great Y.O.Y. class to suffer the This spring has been dry, and stress that surely awaits them if some though some tidal species like low meaningful action is not implemented salinity, water quality sky rockets in in the near future. the Bay when we do not experience the I plan to take advantage of this heavy runoff associated with spring year’s crop of crabs. Trot-lines are rains. Emerging underwater grass swell for people who need lots of crabs beds flourish in the clear water that for a big family, but one or two dozen allows the sunlight to penetrate to the is all I need. The hassle of baiting and bottom. I have already observed lush finding a decent lay for a trot-line is beds of grass in some of our creeks See Prahl Page 25 on the Big Choptank. I would bet

24 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 Prahl … Continued from Page 24 not worth the trouble. out on the way up. I’m going to purchase 10 collaps- It’s been a long time since I ible traps. I can bait them with eas- crabbed seriously, but I do recall that ily obtained white perch carcasses. no matter how big your boat, there’s While I’m waiting for them to fill never enough room for all the stuff. up (ha, ha), I can be fishing a nearby Trot-liners usually have a cull box, shoreline for stripers or perch. Stow- salt, bait, multiple baskets, a net, a ing the traps may be a problem in a brine barrel, and chocks or a line 16-foot boat which is also used for roller. The line itself is stored in the fishing. Some traps fold flat for stor- brine barrel. Some crabbers dry salt age, while others are ready to drop the line which makes handling the overboard. line less of a chore. There are also crab rings which Bait for a trot-line is somewhat amount to nothing more than a wire expensive. Even a 1200-ft. line takes quite a bit of bait. Most recreational crabbers use chicken necks. Some like the tougher bull lips, but storage for both is a problem. An old freezer is great for storing bait and also can store a baited line which eliminates the need to salt it. Commercial crabbers used to re- place baits every other day. Bait gets washed out and eaten and certainly catches better when fresh, but I would ring with a net in the middle. I would think recreational crabbers could get think they would only be useful in by with simply replacing missing and very shallow water, like off of a pier. badly mauled baits. You’ll never know how many climb

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Brush fish with 1 teaspoon cooking oil and sprinkle with lime juice, including cavity. Place in well-oiled grill basket, or on oiled aluminum foil with holes poked in it and placed on the grill. Cook over moderately high heat until thickest part of fish is done. Mean- while, make the sauce. Heat olive oil in saucepan. Sauté onion and garlic until tender, stirring occasionally. Mix in tomatoes and olives and continue cooking over medium heat 6 to 8 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and reserve; reheat when ready to serve.

26 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 Book of the Month Fishing’s Greatest Misadventures

“Fishing’s Greatest Misadventures” presents twenty-six true stories which cover the spectrum from terrifying to comical to downright bizarre. In these pages everyday fishermen, pros, and journalists tell their stories of freak ac- cidents, fishy attacks, pranks, idiotic decisions, eerie or unexplained inci- dents, and other jaw dropping, adrenalin- pumping calamities. The stories bring to life the strange possibilities that await us once we cast our lines into known and unknown waters.Inside these pages you’ll meet: a sport fisherman who gets taken on harrowing underwater ride by an angry white shark; an adventure an- gler whose boat is over turned by a 200 lb Amazon-river catfish; a group of ice fishermen who lose their cabin, gear and pride to a single sturgeon; a teenager who sabotages a fish farm and frees 300,000 salmon; and a charter boat operator who gets speared through the chest by a leaping marlin. From lakes to rivers to the ocean, this book covers every form of angling, and all that can go wrong. Steve Kelly and Terry Crouse with 2 fine gobblers harvested with Horn Biography E. Goose Gun Club. Paul Diamond grew up in Washington, D.C. where he had his own DID YOU KNOW - The Diet for break dance crew, did an internship for then senate majority leader Bob Dole, and than sang in a punk band (in that order). He worked as a pho- Yellowfin Tuna? tojournalist for United Press International in Pittsburgh and later taught Primary prey items include fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans. Yellowfin writing at Ohio University and then at Tulane University. He spent five appear to forage rather indiscriminately for any of these items. A study by Wata- summers leading packs of kids at surf camps in Hawaii, Costa Rica, and nabe (1958) found 37 families of fish and 8 orders of invertebrates in yellowfin Baja California. He now lives in Seattle and works as an editor. stomachs. Fish species consumed by the yellowfin tuna include dolphinfish, pilchard, anchovy, flyingfish, mackerel, lancetfish, and other tunas. Other prey items are cuttlefish, squid, octopus, shrimp, lobster, and crabs. Yellowfin are apparently sight-oriented predators, as their feeding tends to occur in surface waters during daylight. Other large fish and marine mammals compete with yellowfin for food.

Andy Aughenbaugh caught this steelhead after work. His first AK fish. Gotta love Alaska!

June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 27 Maryland MSSA Hosts World’s Largest Rockfish Tournament 2012 Champion, Glenn Orr Wins $69,476 (ANNAPOLIS, MD) – Titled The the fourth place winner by one hun- several skill levels bringing his total Michael weighed in a 20.3 pound Championship on the Chesapeake, dredth of a pound. Foster weighed his earnings to $5,371. rockfish on the first day of the tourna- the World’s Largest Rockfish Tourna- 33.15 pound rockfish at Rod N Reel The Youth Division, which has ment. The top ten winners received ment, concluded on Sunday, May 6th on Sunday. His efforts and fish will become more popular over the past a trophy, merchandise, and gift cards as nearly 500 boats and 3,000 anglers bring him $7,429. Charles Wilson, few years, awarded the top ten youth from Alltackle. Alltackle is a major competed for bragging rights as the also of Chesapeake Beach, came in anglers ages 16 years and under. This sponsor of the MSSA and its tourna- Champion of the Chesapeake, and of fourth place with his 33 pound rock- year’s winner is Cory Lee Freeman as ment series as well as numerous other course the big cash payout. fish. Wilson also weighed in his fish he weighed in a 20.5 pound rockfish. youth events. For the past 29 years the Maryland at Rod N Reel on the first day not long Cory was fishing on Captain James The tournament, always held the Saltwater Sportfishing Association after the scales opened. Wilson will Watkinson’s boat of Chesapeake weekend before Mother’s Day, was (MSSA) has hosted this event in be taking home $17,617 for his three Beach. Second place went to Austin particularly challenging this year. Maryland waters of the Chesapeake days of fishing. Garrison of California, Maryland. Captains were marking plenty of bait Bay. MSSA is the largest Sportfish- In addition, Steve Smith of Ha- Austin caught a beautiful rockfish and big fish, but they were having ing association in the region with over nover, PA took home $16,763 for his weighing in at 20.35 pounds. Austin trouble getting them to take their 6,000 members and 14 chapters. 5th and 8th place fish, along with and his father weighed this fish in baits. There was a lot of talk going MSSA’s large network of volun- 1st place in the four fish skill level. at Point Lookout, both are longtime on about the moon, the weather, the teers allows them to successfully pull Smith won over $65,000 two years participants in the MSSA spring tour- tides, the wind, you name it. But at off The World’s Largest Rockfish ago in the spring tournament. nament. Third place went to Michael the end of the day that is fishing. Tournament. With 11 weigh stations Among the numerous skill levels Linetty of Smithsburg, Maryland. scattered throughout the Bay, both and main tournament prizes are the Eastern and Western shores, the tour- Ladies, Youth, and Pro divisions. nament is convenient and enjoyable New this year is the Ladies Division. for almost everyone in the state. This division awarded the top ten lady Glenn Orr of Severna Park found anglers who weighed in the heaviest this year’s tournament particularly fish all three days of the tournament. enjoyable as he caught a 42.1 pound The winner of the first ever Ladies rockfish on Sunday, the last day of Division was Victoria Beard of Ow- the tournament. Orr has been fish- ings, Maryland. Victoria received ing this tournament for over a decade $500 cash and merchandise from Reel and his catch on Sunday finally paid Sassy fishing apparel. off. Winning the main tournament, The Professional Division was a guaranteed $15,000 cash prize, and dominated this year by a few Cap- all but one of the skill levels (11 total) tains, proving that when they find the brought his total earnings to $69,476. fish, they will catch the fish. William Orr’s payout marks the second largest Goodermuth of Felton, PA took first payout in MSSA spring tournament place this year as he brought in a history behind Lee Slagle in 2008 35.05 pound rockfish. Goodermuth who won over $70,000. weighed in at the Rod N Reel docks Holding on for two and a half in Chesapeake Beach on the second days at first place, ultimately finding day of the tournament. He will take himself taking second, Joe Klug of home $3,000 for his efforts. Sec- Glen Burnie weighed in a magnificent ond place went to Thomas Mills of rockfish coming in at 36.65 pounds. North Beach. Mills was one of the Klug took second in the main tour- big money winners in the pro divi- nament and placing in multiple skill sion as he weighed in a 32.8 pound levels bringing his total earnings to rockfish taking home $6,620. Donnie $13,100. Scrivener of Huntingtown, Maryland Third place went to Karl Foster of took third overall with a 30.15 pound Chesapeake Beach who nudged out rockfish. Scrivener also placed in

28 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 “The last word” largely the same: in an early duction should be very important in decisions Results from the Elk Survey survey question, 72% of re- about whether to reintroduce elk in Maryland. spondents said they supported Roughly three-quarters of Maryland residents the reintroduction of elk into the state (37% of support legal, regulated hunting, and about the Some of you may re- whom strongly supported it), while a similar same percentage would support the hunting of member from my Sep- question asked near the end of the survey (after elk in western tember 11 story or may respondents were given time to consider poten- Maryland. A little more than half of the resi- heard elsewhere that the tial problems such as vehicle collisions, proper- dents surveyed said they would be likely to take Rocky Mountain Elk ty/crop damage, disease risks, and the expense a trip to view elk in Maryland, and about the By Steve Huettner Foundation has allo- of the reintroduction) found 70% of Maryland same proportion of hunters in the sample said cated funds to see if residents in support of the reintroduction (35% they were likely to hunt elk given a healthy Maryland citizens and its habitat would support strongly supporting it). enough population. the reintroduction of Elk to the Free State. Despite that a clear majority of Maryland res- Those who were strongly in support of elk The first part of the process was to conduct a idents support the reintroduction of elk into the reintroduction they could be classified as being survey of Maryland citizens to see how they felt Western part of the state, the survey deter- very or somewhat likely to try elk hunting in about concept of elk in their state. To perform mined that strong opposition is notable among Western Maryland (79% of this groups strongly that task, the groups involved enlisted the ser- several subsets of respondents. Individuals who supported reintroduction), being a hunter (70%), vices of Responsive Management. Responsive believe that the reintroduction of elk will nega- not thinking that potential agricultural damage management is a company that conducts stud- tively affect their job or industry (43% of these should be very or somewhat important in deci- ies on public opinion on natural resources, fish individuals strongly oppose the reintroduction), sions about the elk reintroduction (59%), not be- and wildlife, and outdoor recreation. If you need individuals who think elk will likely be a nui- ing concerned about elk being a nuisance (58%), public opinion on critters that swim, fly, and sance to landowners in western Maryland (36% having had damage caused by wildlife in the walk, they are the go to company. in strong opposition), individuals who do not past 5 years (non landowners 57%), and being The study entailed a telephone survey of 809 support the hunting of elk in western Maryland very likely or somewhat likely to take a trip to Maryland residents 18 and older. In the report, (22% in strong opposition), and western Mary- see elk in Western Maryland (51%). entitled Public Awareness of Opinion on the Re- land landowners of 20 acres or more (20% in At the opposite end of the spectrum, the group introduction of Elk in Western Maryland, some strong opposition). that was strongly opposed to reintroduction, the of the finds found in the study overview found While none of these subsets had a majority of top categories within this group were thinking the majority of Maryland residents are satisfied respondents in strong opposition to the reintro- elk would negatively influence their industry with the overall performance of the Maryland duction of elk into Maryland, it remains likely (43%), elk nuisance on the property (36%), not Department of Natural Resources. A copy of the that these will be the groups most vocally op- supporting elk hunting in Western MD (22%), report is at http://www.responsivemanagement. posed to the reintroduction of elk. being a landowner of 20 acres or more in West- com/download/reports/MD_Elk_Report.pdf Maryland residents place particular impor- ern Maryland (20%), and not thinking the eco- A small percentage of residents have heard tance on the knowledge that the state could ben- nomic benefits of having elk should be impor- something about the proposed reintroduction of efit economically from tourists who come to tant about in reintroducing elk (20%). elk into western Maryland. Despite low overall watch or photograph elk; at the same time, the Regardless of your view on elk reintroduc- awareness about the proposal, nearly three out chance of a vehicle collision with an elk and the tion, with elk currently in PA, and plans being of four Maryland residents would support the disease risk posed by elk are two of the most looked at in West Virginia and Virginia it would reintroduction of elk into western Maryland. important potential concerns to Maryland resi- be prudent to examine all factors regarding elk Support for the reintroduction as measured at dents. Additionally, a majority of them believe and whether or not they are reintroduced. both the beginning and end of the survey was that the ecological effects of the elk reintro-

Now Booking for Chesapeake Bay Rockfish and Offshore Fishing at it’s best! June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 29 2012 Classifieds 2012 Classifieds are FREE are FREE 20 words 20 words or less Classifieds or less Mail your classified to [email protected] - Sell your boat, gun dog, truck, equipment or anything in the garage!

1970 Remington 1100 12 gauge, all seasons. Good hunting. Call 302- FOR SALE magnum, 30 inch barrel Great condi- 462-1505. tion, $500.00 OBO 48’ X 13’6” Custom Chesapeake Call Mike @ 443-786-5286 Hunting Property for lease – Deadrise Built by JOHN TALL – Dorchester County - Waterfront farms Hoopers Island 1991 and inland farms with ponds. Water- Benelli Montfeltro Silver 12 fowl, Turkey, Sika, Whitetail and small Total Refit/Makeover in 2001 ga. wood stock. $1,000 240-338-1605 game - 410-228-6965. 2002 Detroit iesel, Relibuilt –natural – Approx 395 HP 3700 HRS - Hunting farms for rent – Call 410- 30’ COCKPIT WITH 15’ CANOPY MISC. 708-9715. INCREDIBLE Waterfowl Farms & Goose Pits For Illinois deer & turkey hunting in Charter/Fishing/Pleasure Boat or Adams County. Meals and lodging commercial boat Lease on Maryland’s Eastern Shore Please Contact Capt. Richie 443-309- incl. www.McKeeCreekWhitetails.com. 1727 PRICE REDUCED! Waterfowl Hunting – Farms and Call for full details SIKA Booklet - History, Hunting info. blinds available for lease or by the day 410-708-7751 32 pages with pictures. Only $12.00 hunting on the Eastern Shore. Call 410- or e-mail [email protected] Postage included. 434-223-7617 or 708-1276. [email protected] 2006 Arctic Cat 500. Basically Private hunting club Member- ships available. 1200 acres Talbot, QA unused. $4500.00 includes trail- LEAD FOR SALE – Recovered from er.410-253-8891 rifle range. Excellent for fishing and de- Counties. Deer, turkey & waterfowl. coy weights. Any quantity. Tons avail- Impoundments, ponds, offshore and 2000 Sea pro CC T-Top 150mer- able. 410-742-2023. shore blinds, and flooded timber. 410- cury front trolling motor galv roller trail- 708-9851. er $11900.00 303 hours 301-829-8980. 80 acres with blinds and nice house on Chesapeake Bay Outfitters, guides, gun clubs, and 2005 40’ 4 slide out’s 5th & St Johns Creek. hunt clubs – looking for affordable and accurate insurance? Call Kiser Com- wheel montana - Sleeps 6-8 - St Johns Creek ~ 35 acres ~ Only used it two seasons - new carpet great hunting. mercial Agency for a quick quote at - $28,500 OBO - 240-237-0311 or 410- 3 bedroom/ 2 bath house with 410-255-8100. 231-9941 large garage. Janet Livings- ton, Powell Realtors 443-205- Waterfowl hunting club in Kent Co, NWTF 2008 Gun of the year 3255 MD is looking for new members. Visit - Weatherby 300 Mag. - new in box - our website www.rockhallgunningclub. com or Call Phil @ 410-708-2831. $995.00 also - NWTF Silver Reserve 75 waterfront acres, excellent - 12 ga. Over and Under - new in box hunting/fishing, 2 blinds, bulkhead $495.00 Call Bill 41--242-6108 $324,000. Adjacent to Black Water Dorchester County - 110 Refuge. Marrie Retallack, Coldwell acres waterfront - 130 acres with 2 Brand new, never fired weatherby Banker, 410-310-3831 ponds - Sika - Whitetail - Waterfowl - vanguard bolt action 30/06. Synthetic Turkey - Dove - Small game - 410-228- stock, blued barrel. Comes with case, INSURANCE-Yates 6965 sling, and scope. $500 Sportsmen’s Ins. Call Steve at 410 593 9587 The leader in providing insurance Hunting Club Membership for Hunting & Shooting clubs, G&O, – Equity membership for 10 person 2001 38 ft. Deckleman Aluminum Ranges, land lease and reenactment hunt club available on Asquith Island, Work Boat – Furono NavNet and depth groups. Buy direct and save. 866-505- Dorchester County. Great duck, white- finder. V.H.F., 8V92TTI 650 HP Detroit, 2663, [email protected] tail, sika hunting. 250+ acres, lodge, recent rebuild. Trolling valve, 30 kt impoundments, woods, marsh, 6 deer towers, deer stands, shore blinds, boat cruise, $90,000. 410-708-3416. DEER HUNTING – Cecil County Farms, 558 Ac. $900/yr per hunter for ramp. $79,500. [email protected], 703-462-2360 30 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012 New from Winchester: BE a chummEr this summEr! SXP 12 Gauge 3 1/2 chum by the Log, Bucket or Bushel Inch Pump Shotgun aLEWiVEs by the Flat or Bushel all sizes of circle hooks! Black Saltys, Turkey Hunter Minnows, CHUMMING Bloodworms, Earthworms, OUTFIT Shrimp & Chicken BWS1100, 6’ 6” or 7’ UGLY STIK ROD Necks Ball Bearing SS Spinning Reel, CHUM by the Log, Bucket or Bushel Black Shadow 4 ball Bearings 17# or 20# Line... $59.95 ALEWIVES by the Flat or Bushel All sizes of CIRCLE HOOKS Rod & Reel Chumming Combos as low as $39.95

Waterfowl Hunter Ready for the turkey woods or flooded fields, the LET’S GO Winchester Repeating Arms Super X Pump is now available in 12 gauge 3 ½ chambering. The Super X® Pump will be offered in a Waterfowl Hunter, Turkey Hunter and Black Shadow models. All SXP models feature the fast and dependable speed from CRABBIN’! the inertia-assisted rotary bolt design that delivers three shots in a half-second. Invector-Plus choke system, hard COTTON Crab Rings... chrome chamber and bore and drop-out trigger group are Each Dozen also featured on the new 3 ½” SXP® Pump. Foxy-Mate Topless $2.49 • $26.99 The SXP Waterfowl Hunter will be offered in 26” or CRAB NETS, All Types & Sizes 28” barrel lengths with synthetic stocks with textured Crab Traps Economy Model... Starting at $5.99 gripping surfaces and dipped in Mossy Oak Duck Crab Baskets with Lid... $4.95 Blind® Camo. The Black Shadow will come in a matte- Model 120T $10.99 each New Baskets $9.95 black finish with synthetic stocks in 26” or 28” barrels. - $109.95 Doz. The new SXP Turkey Hunter will feature a 24” barrel length with Truglo open sights. It will also have synthetic Foxy-Mate Crab Traps stocks with textured gripping surfaces and dipped in Model 66 $6.99 Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity camo. New SXP 12 gauge Each $69.95 Doz. Blue Claw 3 ½” Waterfowl Hunter Suggested Retail, $579.99. New Folding Crab Traps SXP 12 gauge 3 ½” Black Shadow, Suggested Retail, 1000 Foot Trotline... Nylon...$36.95 $8.95 Ea. $89.95 Dozen $499.99. New SXP 12 gauge 3 ½” Turkey Hunter, Sug- gested Retail, $599.99. 500 Foot Tarred Trotline... $21.99

Blue Crab Fun Facts: Pasadena 4-Door 20 Quart and Callinectes sapidus means Crab Traps up to "Beautiful swimmer that is $7.99 Each 50 Quart Crab Steamers savory". $84.95 Doz. Crabs reach maturity in 12 to 18 months. Few crabs live longer CRAB BAIT IN than 3 years. The largest crab recorded from Maryland was STOCK! CHICKEN NECKS NOW IN STOCK! a male measuring 9 inches; however bigger crabs Now Carrying AND EELS (10-11 inches) have been captured in DNR crab Kodabow surveys. Crossbows The annual harvest of hard crabs from Chesa- peake Bay accounts for over 50% of total U.S. landings. CLYDE’S SPORT SHOP Cannibalism of young blue crabs by larger crabs 2307 Hammonds Ferry Road • Baltimore, MD 21227 is common and may regulate population abun- 410 -242-6108 • www.clydessports.com dance. •GUNS • AMMO • CLOTHING • HUNTING LICENSES • BOOTS • KNIVES A spring-spawned crab can reach a size of 2½ 1957-2011 “54 Years Serving Maryland’s Fishermen & Hunters” inches by their first winter. 24 HOUR FISHING HOTLINE 410-247-FISH

June 2012 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com 31 Molly’s Open House June 16th. Huge SALES throughout the store! Live Music 1-3 pm featuring 21 Horses

21 HORSES is a four-piece band whose members are a mature collection of very talented and experienced musicians, who bring a wide and deep variety of professional musical and performance experience to this group. Their breadth of musicianship is DON’T reflected both in the variety of the ever-evolving song list, and the tightness and MISS dynamics with which these songs THIS are rendered. SALE!

12503 Augustine Herman Hwy, Kennedyville, MD 21645 410-348-9160

32 www.fishingandhuntingjournal.com June 2012