FISHING Who Likes Ike? May 27, 2005 Volume I, Issue 19 Texas’ Premier Outdoor Newspaper See page 11 $1.75 www.lonestaroutdoornews.com

INSIDE Lower

FISHING NEWS Laguna is The crappie spring spawn is approaching its peak. Get tips on catching these great little Big Trout fish and find out when they’ll be heading back into deeper water. See page 8 Haven By Richard Moore

hen Bud Rowland of Port Isabel cast his favorite fly, the “numero uno” to a largeW spotted seatrout on the morning of May 23, 2002, he knew he was making a presenta- tion to a big fish. Just how big would not be revealed until sev- eral minutes later when he weighed the new state record trout. The fish, which he caught in the Lower Laguna Madre a few miles north of the Queen Isabella Causeway, weighed 15 Outdoor retail giant Cabela’s has pounds 6 ounces and measured arrived in Fort Worth, and 37 ? inches. After weighing the visitors can expect sport and trout on a certified handheld spectacle on a Texas-sized Chatillon scale, Rowland and scale. two witnesses measured and See page 6 photographed the fish before releasing her. HUNTING NEWS “After quickly weighing and TBGA’s big game contest attracts a record number of photographing her on a spoil entries this season. Find out the bank, I told them I was going to top winners in each category. release her,” Rowland recalled. See page 5 “I knew I had an unbelievable fish, and I thought over and over Some Texas hunters got more whether I should kill her or than they bargined for during a release her, but she was full of Montana hunt. Out-of-state eggs. I release nearly all of my big game wardens say the outfitter trout anyway, and now her wasn’t licensed and neither were genetics can continue in our bay the hunts.. system.” See page 6 George Garcia of Mercedes CONSERVATION UPDATE Continued on page 11 BIG TROUT: Tink Pinkard battles a speckeled trout. TPW surveys show the largest fish like the Lower Maguna Madre. Menhaden are prime food for ocean sport fish. An East Coast regulatory agency wants to cap harvests while a Houston 3-D Bowhunting Can Cure Deer Permit Bill Killed business objects. By Mark England islative session. Harris removed See page 4 Hot Weather Doldrums Senate Bill 1765 from considera- By Lynn Burkhead and then, it would seem that tion and doesn’t plan to reintro- NATIONAL NEWS another long, hot Lone Star bill that critics charged duce it, said Barnett. Legislation reaffirming individual summer is waiting in the wings. would have led to the The bill would have changed states’ rights to regulate hunting or the serious bowhunter, But believe it or not, the next private ownership of the rules governing those with a and fishing gained White House the approach of summer few months just might be the white-tailed deer in scientific deer breeder’s permit. approval this month. can try the soul. most important time of the year TexasA as well as canned hunts It reduced the oversight respon- See page 5 Spring turkey season has for bowhunters hoping to seal and the spread of disease has sibilities of Texas Parks and justF ended. Next fall’s deer sea- the deal in a moment of truth been derailed by its sponsor, Sen. Wildlife, allowing deer breeders DEPARTMENTS son isn’t even a glimmer on the next autumn. Chris Harris, R-Arlington. applying for a comprehensive horizon yet. And between now Continued on page 7 An aide to Harris, Scott Barnett, high-fence deer management Product Picks Page 13 said the bill is dead for this leg- Continued on page 9 Wild in the Kitchen Page 14 Made in Texas Page 14 PRSRT STD US POSTAGE Texas Word Treasures Crossword Page 14 PAID PLANO, TX This Week’s Weather Page 15 PERMIT 210 Bordering Texas Page 15 This Week’s Fishing Report Page 16 Heroe’s Corner Page 19 Game Warden Blotter Page 17 Outdoor Datebook Page 19 SHARP SHOOTER: Mike Panther aims his bow at a bighorn sheep target. Lone Star Outdoor News Makes a Great Father's Day Gift Honey Kids Honey-do list Lone Star Outdoor News sure would mak e Empty Trash a great Father’s day gift for me! Go Shopping Please get me this, I’ll promise to Fix Dinner BEFORE I go out fishing this time!! Clean Garage Your Loving Husband Dad Cut Grass p.s. you can save even more on the two year deal! Wash Dog

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†Maximum payload capacity includes weight of vehicle, passengers, cargo and equipment. ††Trailer ratings are calculated assuming a properly equipped base vehicle plus driver. See the GMC Trailering Guide for details. †††When properly equipped, includes weight of vehicle, passengers, cargo and equipment. *Call 1-888-4ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827) or visit onstar.com for system limitations and details. **Available in the 48 contiguous states. Basic service fees apply. Visit gm.xmradio.com for details. ©2005 OnStar Corp. All rights reserved. OnStar and the OnStar emblem are registered trademarks of OnStar Corporation. ©2005 XM Satellite Radio Inc. All rights reserved. The XM name and related logos are registered trademarks of XM Satellite Radio Inc. ©2005 Bose Corp. All rights reserved. ©2005 General Motors Corp. All rights reserved. Sierra, GMC and the GMC logo are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. Page 4 May 27, 2005 CONSERVATION UPDATE U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Creation Of Texas Refuge To Save Forests ish and Wildlife Service bottomland hardwood forests. in designating refuge bound- landowners with no interest in http://www.fws.gov/south- Presents Options for a Information from public aries. selling their land. west/refuges/Plan/index.html. Proposed National comment meetings held earlier Only after the director has Copies of the options (print Click on Completed Plans and Wildlife Refuge in the month will be considered approved the proposal, would or CD) are available in advance Drafts. FThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife in the proposal. Once any the service be able to enter into by calling (505) 248-6813 or The proposal for establishing Service has drafted different resulting changes are made, the any negotiations to purchase writing the U.S. Fish and a National Wildlife Refuge was options for creating a federal package is submitted to the lands within the specified areas Wildlife Service at PO Box 1306, introduced to the public in Neches River National Wildlife director of the FWS. The direc- from willing sellers. The Albuquerque, NM, 87103, attn: August 2004. Refuge in Anderson and tor makes the final decision on Service buys from willing sellers Division of Planning, National Cherokee counties in Texas to whether to establish a refuge only. The establishment of a Wildlife Refuge System or on — A U.S. Fish and Wildlife conserve and manage declining and, if so, which option to use refuge does not affect private the internet at: Service report Agency Asks Public To Comment On Menhaden Plan Atlantic States Plan To Cap Houston Company's Harvest

he Atlantic States the Coastal Conservation Marine Fisheries Association of Maryland. “After Commission plans to all, as recreational anglers know, limit the number of almost every fish caught in the Tmenhaden harvested for indus- bay has a catch limit. Menhaden trial use from the Chesapeake should also.” Bay. The ASMFC rejected an initia- “This is an important step for- tive offered by Omega Protein, ward toward proactive conserva- the Houston-based company tion measures to ensure a that takes 90 percent of the healthy menhaden population entire East Coast menhaden in the bay,” said Bill catch. In their proposal the Goldsborough, senior fisheries industry would voluntarily cap scientist at the Chesapeake Bay their harvest, but at an increased Foundation. level of 135,000 metric tons The action taken by the annually for the next four years. ASMFC, the multi-state regulato- Omega, which recently opened ry body that manages the stock, up a newly enhanced processing will seek public comment and plant in Reedville, Virginia, also conduct public hearings this wants to reopen state waters, summer in Maryland, Virginia such as those of Maryland and and other East Coast states on a New Jersey, which are currently management plan that would closed to industrial purse seine cap the annual harvest at operations. 110,400 metric tons. This harvest “While recreational anglers and Photo by Scott Sommerlatte. cap is based on the average annu- conservationists are calling for al harvest over the past five years. maintaining the catch at current They are also the prime filter feed- the Chesapeake and the Atlantic organizations, has applauded the Both Maryland Gov. Robert levels, Omega Protein is advocat- er for the Chesapeake Bay, next to Coast fishery should go to these proposed cap. Group members Ehrlich and the state’s congres- ing a dramatic increase in their oysters that are grossly depleted. public hearings,” said Ken including the Chesapeake Bay sional delegation urged the com- harvest,” said David Festa, oceans However, recent studies have Hinman, president of the Foundation, Coastal mission to place a limit on the program director at shown that the overall number of National Coalition for Marine Conservation Association, industrial harvest until more Environmental Defense. menhaden is at near historic lows Conservation. “Through their Environmental Defense and the research can be done. “Obviously, such a plan would and predators that depend on the comments and letters, they are National Coalition for Marine “It just makes common sense only exacerbate the current situa- fish as a food source, such as going to help their commission- Conservation. to cap the industrial purse seine tion — not remedy it.” striped bass, are suffering malnu- ers make the right decision for the See www/asmfc.org/ for com- harvest of menhaden while we Menhaden have been called the trition and poor body condition. fish and the future of fishing.” ment information. try to learn more about its most important fish in the sea. “This is a very important fish to Menhaden Matter, a unique impact,” said Sherman Baynard, They are prime food for striped the ecosystem. That is why any- cooperative effort of concerned — An Environmental Defense fisheries committee chairman of bass and other popular sport fish. one who cares about the future of conservation and recreation report Diverse Wildlife Organizations Back Refuge Spending CARE Organization Still Cautious About Future Budgets embers of the of Wildlife, National Audubon programs that have a track record home. Maintaining the Refuge Foundation Cooperative Alliance Society, Ducks Unlimited, of superb performance, and the System costs money, and we Defenders of Wildlife for Refuge National Wildlife Federation, National Wildlife Refuge System thank the members of the sub- Ducks Unlimited Enhancement Trout Unlimited, Safari Club is just that kind of program. It is committee who have increased International Association of Fish backedM the fiscal year 2006 fund- International, National Wildlife our hope that the Refuge System funding for basic operations to and Wildlife Agencies ing level approved by a U.S. House Refuge Association, and the continues to be a high funding keep up with the annual Izaak Walton League of America subcommittee for the National National Rifle Association, priority for lawmakers well into increased costs for the Refuge National Association of Service Wildlife Refuge System. among others. the future,” said Steve Kline, con- System in the face of pressure to and Conservation Corps With the Appropriations “In the current climate of servation associate for the Izaak make large budget cuts,” added National Audubon Society Committee recommending $394 shrinking budgets, we appreciate Walton League of America. Noah Matson, director of National Rifle Association of million for refuge system opera- the efforts to develop a budget Reducing the multi-billion-dol- Defenders of Wildlife’s Federal America tions and maintenance, organiza- that provides basic operations lar operations and maintenance Lands Program. National Wildlife Federation tion members were pleased, but and maintenance needs for the backlog is imperative to ensure “Of course, we look forward to a National Wildlife Refuge also cautious about future Refuge System,” said Evan the biological integrity, diversity, time when the Refuge System Association prospects. Hirsche, president of the National and environmental health of the backlog can be addressed in a Safari Club International Groups which otherwise might Wildlife Refuge Association and refuge system, said Sean bolder fashion,” said Hirsche. The Wilderness Society be at odds over some policy issues chair of the CARE group. “We are McMahon, director of the The organizations in CARE are The Wildlife Society were unified when addressing the all aware of just how tough the National Land Stewardship as follows: Trout Unlimited immediate budget needs of the current budget climate is, and are Campaign at the National American Birding Association U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance refuge system, a part of the U.S. hopeful that future years will be Wildlife Federation. American Fisheries Society Wildlife Forever Fish and Wildlife Service. The 21 better,” continued Hirsche. “Without the National Wildlife American Sportfishing Wildlife Management Institute member groups of CARE repre- “It is encouraging to see with Refuge System, many of our Association sent a wide spectrum of con- this mark that the House is will- nation’s treasured wildlife species Assateague Coastal Trust — A Cooperative Alliance For stituencies, including Defenders ing to increase funding to federal would simply have no place to call Congressional Sportsmen’s Refuge Enhancement report May 27, 2005 Page 5 NATIONAL NEWS Your Call Of The Wild Could IT TAKES ON Win National Applause KIDS. ome of the nation’s best species. There are three divisions competition. This double victory game callers will compete of competition: Hunter, Pro, and brought Benefield’s purse to over for a combined $40,000 in Team. Anyone may enter the Pro $11,000 in cash and prizes. cash and prizes at the fifth and Team divisions, but entrants Benefield — who owns and IT TAKES ON annualS National Rifle in the Hunter Division may not operates an auto repair shop in Association’s Great American have won a national calling con- Atlanta, Ga., when he is not run- Hunter’s Game Calling test. ning his outfitter business in Pike Challenge in Virginia. The art of game calling is an County, Ill. — doesn’t really CARGO. The contest will be held at NRA age-old skill upon which early spend much time practicing his Headquarters in Fairfax, Va. June hunters relied for their very sur- game calls. “Last year I just 3-5. vival. Today it is a skill that con- showed up and spent the day All competitors are required to tinues to aid hunters and is before the competition practic- IT EVEN TAKES imitate the sounds of at least four enjoyed by millions of people for ing. I practiced so much that day out of seven species selected for the pure challenge of under- that I bruised my upper lip,” he the contest. Few other game call- standing and imitating different said. What about this year? “I am ON THE ing contests require such versatil- animal sounds. practicing a lot more since I figure ity, according to NRA’s Web site. Last year, Dave Martinez of people will be gunning for me,” The seven species are: white- Sylmar, Calif., was crowned he said. tailed deer, elk, turkey, barred world champion in the hunter Awards are given to the top COMPETITION. owl, Canada goose, mallard duck, division, winning more than three finishers in each division, and coyote/predator. Callers may $5,000 in cash and prizes, while and include trophies, cash, and receive up to 300 points for each Doug Benefield of Newnan, Ga., product prizes — the number of animal or bird, with a maximum received the world champion lau- entrants will determine the cash score of 2,100 points. Each con- rels in the Professional Division. awards breakdown. testant must perform different Benefield and Daymon Davis, of types of calls such as locating, Danville, Penn., also received the — An NRA Report GMC Yukon SLT feeding, and mating calls for each title of world champions in team Bush: It's Up To States To Regulate Hunting President Bush signed a bill Arizona, filed by three New In some states, such as Nevada, this month reaffirming states’ Mexico outfitters who claimed the new federal law upholds rights to regulate hunting and restrictions on nonresidents in rules that favor residents over fishing licenses and tag limits. some big game hunts were dis- out-of-state applicants. Traditionally, states have regu- criminatory. Then, the outfitters The bill enjoyed bipartisan lated hunting and fishing with- sued Nevada in July, alleging support and was sponsored by in their borders, but that author- Nevada’s draw system that several Western states. ity came into question when the reserves most big game tags for Eventually, it was attached to an 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals residents was illegal because it emergency appropriations bill THE ruled that states restricting non- discriminated against nonresi- for defense, terrorism and tsuna- GMC FORD NISSAN TOYOTA YUKON resident hunting tags must do so dents, according to news reports mi relief signed by Bush. YUKON EXPEDITION ARMADA SEQUOIA ADVANTAGE in the least discriminatory way. by the Associated Press and other SLT XLT LE LIMITED The case originated in news organizations. — A Staff Report TURNING MOOSE HUNTING DEADLINE NEARS DIAMETER 38.3 FT 38.7 FT 40.8 FT 42.3 FT

The deadline to send in a ing season is tentatively for [email protected]. EPA EST. 2WD Vermont moose hunting lot- Oct. 15-20, with an antlerless Download a copy of the applica- FUEL ECONOMY 16/20 MPG 14/19 MPG 13/19 MPG 15/18 MPG tery application is July 1, moose season in Wildlife tion from www.vtfishand (city/highway) according to the Vermont Fish Management Units D2 and E to wildlife.com. Permits are issued & Wildlife Department. be held Oct. 22-27. by lottery to residents and non- ONSTAR® 1-YR NOT NOT NOT “The applications were mis- Lottery applications for residents. SAFE AND STANDARD AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE takenly printed with May 1 Vermont moose hunting per- Lottery applications are $10 SOUND SERVICE* indicated as a deadline,” said mits are available at license for residents and $25 for nonres- Fish & Wildlife idents. Winners of the per- TRI-ZONE NOT NOT NOT Commissioner Wayne mit lottery will purchase CLIMATE STANDARD AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE Laroche. “Last year we resident permits for $100 CONTROL increased the amount of and nonresident permits for time hunters had to $350. XM NOT NOT apply.” Hunters will also have the SATELLITE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE Wildlife biologists are opportunity to bid on one RADIO®** prescribing that 1,045 of five permits being auc- moose hunting permits tioned off to the highest REAR NOT NOT NOT be issued for the October bidders. LOCKING AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE 2005 hunting season, an Hunters took 539 moose DIFFERENTIAL increase of 195 permits in Vermont’s 2004 hunting over the number authorized in agents throughout the state season with a statewide average A CONSUMERS 2004. and from the Vermont Fish & success rate of 65 percent. If the DIGEST YES NO NO NO Biologists estimate the Wildlife Department, 103 Fish and Wildlife Board approves BEST BUY moose population at about South Main St., Waterbury, VT, the proposed number of per- 4,700 statewide. 05671. Call (802) 241-3700, or e- mits, hunters are expected to WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE.® The statewide moose hunt- mail the following address: take about 670 moose this year. REPUBLICANS AND DEMOCRATS FACE OFF WITH GUNS The Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus Shooting Contest Tests Skills Of Lawmakers early two dozen mem- Congressional Sportsmen’s umphed as the contest’s Top SEE THE PROS AT YOUR LOCAL GMC DEALER bers of the Foundation hosts the event to Gun with a score of 65 broken Congressional give lawmakers the chance to clays out of 75. Sportsmen’s Caucus understand their sportsmen “I am thrilled to have shot so Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution. gatheredN at the Prince George’s constituents, according to a well and to share this victory *Call 1-888-4ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827) or visit onstar.com County Trap and Skeet Center foundation news release. with the rest of my party. for system limitations and details. in Glenn Dale, Maryland, to Republicans, led by Caucus However, this event has nothing **Available in the 48 contiguous states. Basic service fees apply. prove their markmanship this Co-Chairs, Senator Mike Crapo to do with partisan politics and Visit gm.xmradio.com for details. month. of Idaho and Congressman everything to do with banding ©2005 OnStar Corp. All rights reserved. OnStar and the OnStar The lawmakers competed in Adam Putnam of Florida, were together across party lines in emblem are registered trademarks of OnStar Corporation. ©2005 XM Satellite Radio Inc. All rights reserved. The XM name the Great Congressional Shoot- the straightest shooters on defense of sportsmen,” said and related logos are registered trademarks of XM Satellite Radio Inc. Out, an annual event that pits Capitol Hill this year — at least Cunningham. ©2005 General Motors Corp. All rights reserved. Yukon, GMC and political parties against each on the shotgun range. the GMC logo are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. other on the trap, skeet and Republican Congressman Duke — A Congressional Sportsmen’s sporting clays fields. The Cunningham of California tri- Foundation report Page 6 May 27, 2005 HUNTING Big Outdoor Retailer Opens First Of Two Texas Stores abela’s – part big-box Outdoor cloth- part of a cluster the chain $600,000 from the outdoor retailer, part ing and gear for of businesses Texas Enterprise Fund. tourist attraction – is hunting, fish- that include Fort Worth city leaders making its Texas debut ing, camping hotels, restau- approved a 20-year economic inC Fort Worth this week. and just about rants and other incentive program for Cabela’s Whether buyer or browser, the any other out- travel-related worth about $40 million. Buda 230,000-square-foot store is aim- door activity services. offered Cabela’s incentives esti- ing to please. The store, located you can think Cabela’s is mated to be worth about $36 at the interchange of Interstate of is for sale. counting on million. 35 West and Highway 170 will “We are more than 4 feature a boat showroom and thrilled that million people — A Staff Report maintenance shop, wildlife Texas is to visit the Fort mounts at the store’s diorama, a Cabela’s first Worth store 40-foot “conservation moun- location in the each year, and tain,” a 12,000-square-foot tro- southern part more than 3.5 phy deer museum, and a 65,000- of the United million to visit gallon aquarium. Other features States,” said Dennis Highby, The Fort Worth store is expect- the Buda store. include a laser arcade, gun Cabela’s president and CEO. ed to employee 500 people. Cabela’s, which markets itself library, restaurant – and even a “Texans are passionate about the The chain will follow up June as a tourist attraction in other dog kennel for customers travel- great outdoors, and our stores 30 with the opening of its Buda states as well, received a first-ever ing with their pets. serve as a tribute to conservation store outside of Austin. grant for a retailer in May 2004 Oh yeah, and there’s the store. and wildlife. It’s a perfect fit.” Both stores are expected to be when Gov. Rick Perry awarded Gov. Perry Appoints Friedkin And Holt To Parks And Wildlife Commission ov. Rick Perry include Gulf States Toyota, one of Georgetown University, he Economic Development he and his wife, Julianna, were announced the the world’s largest privately held received a master’s degree from Foundation, Inc.; the Free Trade honored by the World Affairs appointment of T. Dan Toyota distributorships. He is an Rice University. Alliance of San Antonio, and St. Council as the International Friedkin of Houston avid outdoorsman who is active Holt is CEO of HOLT CAT, the Mary’s Hall. Holt also serves on Citizens of the Year. He is a volun- andG Peter M. Holt of Blanco to the in wildlife conservation initia- largest Caterpillar distributor in the development board of the teer with the Spurs Drug-Free Texas Parks and Wildlife tives in the United States and the United States. He also is prin- University of Texas Health Youth Basketball League and the Commission for terms to expire abroad. He is a trustee of the cipal owner and chairman of the Science Center at San Antonio Fannie Mae Foundation’s Home Feb. 1, 2011. The commission Kinkaid School Board, advisory Spurs Sports and Entertainment, and is a board member of The Team Partnership. Holt is a oversees the Texas Parks and director with J.P. Morgan Chase and is being reappointed to the Trust Company, the Texas State Vietnam veteran, who was award- Wildlife Department. in Houston and member of the commission. Holt is a member of Aquarium and Trinity University. ed a Purple Heart, Silver Star and Friedkin is president and CEO Young President’s Organization. the World President’s Association He is a former chairman of San three Bronze Stars for Valor. of Friedkin Companies, with Friedkin serves on the advisory and trustee of the Palmer Drug Antonio United Way and remains Appointments are subject to responsibility for companies and board of the Texas A&M Caesar Abuse Program in Corpus Christi. active in the organization. In senate confirmation. investments principally in the Kleberg Wildlife Research He serves on the board of J.P. 2003, Holt was inducted into the automotive industry. These Institute. A graduate of Morgan Chase Bank; San Antonio Business Hall of Fame and in 2004 —A Texas Parks and Wildlife report Montana Game Wardens Give Thumbs Down To Hunting Practices Shown In Video By Mark England Carbone, who is based in Chasing illegal outfitters and Dallas. “The man said, ‘Yeah, hunters is about more than probably not.’ He knew he pursuing lost state revenue, eff Darrah is a Montana wasn’t hiring a bona fide out- insists J.D. Douglas, a Montana game warden captain, not fitter.” field warden. a film critic. But he and his Carbone said the individuals “We shut down a poaching officers said what they saw charged had hunted with the ring more than a year ago,” he Jin a video shot in their state suspected illegal outfitter, who said. “Since that time, the looked downright criminal. videotaped his hunting par- buck-to-doe ratio in that area So much so that two game ties, at different times. Most of has gone up, as has the quality wardens for Montana Fish, the illegal hunting occurred in of bucks. That’s according to Wildlife and Parks charged six western Montana, near Seeley our biologists. Usually these Texans with illegal hunting – Lake, with mule deer and elk parties have grounds they’re and the wardens used the a the primary targets. comfortable working in. What home video to help make the Why hire an illegal outfitter? with taking animals out of sea- cases. Authorities have accused They look the other way, claim son and over the limit, they the Texans of hunting with an Montana officials. Several cita- can impact the species in an outfitter whom state officials tions involved shooting multi- area.” said wasn’t licensed. The out- ple animals on a single license. According to Montana Fish, fitter is the target of an ongo- “Montana is a big place,” Wildlife and Parks, those who ing investigation. Carbone said. “I guess these pleaded guilty include: “In our state, if you hire hunters were rolling the dice Woody Jarmon, 56, Dallas. someone who’s not licensed, and betting they wouldn’t be Two counts of obtaining the you’re guilty as well,” Darrah caught.” services of an unlicensed out- said. “Generally, if you’ve got a Hunters can check whether a fitter. Pleaded guilty. Paid a deal that sounds too good to person is a licensed outfitter in fine of $770. be true, it probably is. When Montana by calling (406) 841- Chad Jarmon, 22, Dallas. Six someone doesn’t have to pay 2370 or by going to the Web counts of obtaining the servic- things like insurance, he can site of the Business Standards es of an unlicensed outfitter. afford to give you a cut rate.” Division (www.state.mt.us/dli/ Pleaded guilty. Paid a fine of Montana game wardens Bill bsd/) and clicking on the $2,310. Koppen and Jeff Campbell Licensee Lookup System. Paul Heikkinen, 57, traveled to Dallas in April look- Outfitters are assigned an area Mesquite. One count of unlaw- ing for 12 Texans. They inter- by the state and must keep ful possession of a game ani- viewed nine. They charged six, detailed information on their mal. Pleaded guilty. Paid a fine and four of those have pleaded hunters as well as what they of $535 and lost hunting privi- guilty and paid fines totaling shoot. leges in compact states for 24 more than $4,000. Texas Parks Individuals cited for illegal months. and Wildlife game warden hunting in Montana don’t face James Tim Payton, 52, Tom Carbone assisted Koppen extradition, but they can pay a Dallas. One count of unlawful and Campbell. Some of the heavy price by refusing to pay possession of a game animal. Texans cited knew what they their fines. The state is part of Pleaded guilty. Paid a fine of were getting into, Carbone the Interstate Wildlife Violator $535 and lost hunting privi- said. Compact, made up of 19 pri- leges in compact states for 24 “A Montana game warden marily western states. Hunters months. Also pleaded guilty to asked one man, ‘Do you think banned from one member a second charge of loaning his a legitimate outfitter would ask state may be banned from the hunting license to another you to pay him in cash?’” said others. person. Paid a fine of $220. May 27, 2005 Page 7

Continued from page 1 3-D Hunting

TARGET PRACTICE: Charles Bruton removes arrows from a 3-D target while Mike Panther helps steady the target. The men were practicing at the Mesquite Archery Club. Photo by David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoor News. In other words, it’s 3-D time in “The main thing I like about 3- fits, former Fort Worth and cur- “I think a lot of it (bowhunting but bad practice makes bad Texas. D is that it keeps you in touch rent Colorado Springs resident success) is a mindset,” Strickland habits,” Cantrell stressed. “I tell Across the Lone Star State, with your equipment and shoot- Brian Strickland has another key said. “I think a lot of people miss guys don’t shoot 200 shots, but hunters are ending their off-season ing form during the off-season,” reason to shoot at animal shaped shots because of the mental aspect instead, go out and shoot 25 really nap by flinging arrows at a variety Cantrell said. “It also helps you 3-D targets. more than anything else.” good shots.” of 3-D, or three-dimensional, foam keep your shooting muscles “I will actually act like I’m stalk- “I’m already thinking about And executing really good shots targets shaped like whitetails, mule toned.” ing or sneaking up on it,” next fall’s elk season and it (shoot- — or specifically, executing one deer, elk, and wild pigs. An avid bowhunter for white- Strickland said. ing at a 3-D target) helps me get great shot — are the whole point All of this, of course, is in an tails, elk, and Texas exotics, Such summertime “dress into the mental frame of mind to of off-season 3-D archery target effort to have their equipment Cantrell suggests that there are rehearsals” help Strickland seal go through the proper shot prepa- shooting. tuned flawlessly and their skills other reasons for sending arrows the deal come fall, something that ration and hopefully execute a “If you start to get tired, put it with a stick and string honed to a downrange at a glorified piece of he has already done on four shot at a 320-inch bull.” down and come back a half-hour razor-sharp edge by the time the foam on a summer evening. record-class animals including Keep in mind that Cantrell hour later or even tomorrow and first cool breezes of September “From an accuracy perspective, two whitetails, a trophy bull elk, advocates that there’s far more to make sure that you’re executing begin to blow. shooting 3-D certainly helps you and a fine pronghorn antelope. all of this than simply flinging really good shots.” Orvie Cantrell Jr., owner of Big judge distances better,” Cantrell That collection of trophies is arrows mindlessly at 3-D targets in O’s Archery Shop in Sherman, is said. “Plus, it helps you learn to made even more impressive by the the backyard, at a local archery Lynn Burkhead is a frequent one Texas archer who knows full hold on a specific spot on the tar- fact that Strickland has been car- club or bow shop target course, or contributor to Lone Star Outdoor well the benefits of off-season 3-D get.” rying a stick-and-string only since on a tournament shooting range. News and an associate editor for practice. Aside from those physical bene- the year 2000. “Perfect, practice makes perfect, ESPNOutdoors.com. TBGA Scores Banner Year Bring me my With Record Game Entries Lone Star Outdoor News! Best Mule Deer Ever Taken With Bow Bagged Good dog. By Lynn Burkhead which was one of the best ever. I think last year was in the same To subscribe, turn to page 17 ballpark – it was just that the or visit www.lonestaroutdoornews.com. he deer and the antelope deer did not have to move far for didn’t roam, but more what they need.” hunters than ever Even with the situation as it entered their big bucks was, the TBGA program still set a Tand antelopes in this year’s record with more than 1,530 Texas Big Game Awards pro- scored entries being received by gram. the program’s March 15t dead- With ample natural food avail- line. able on the state’s woodsy buf- “Our total scored entries were fet, big game movement was lim- at an all-time high,” Brimager ited in some parts of the state said. “But when I looked at cer- thanks to the lush range condi- tain regions of the state, some tions, which had some hunters had lower entries than the previ- complaining. ous year. I think that is due to “Last year was a great year for better habitat conditions – more antler quality,” agreed David rainfall – and the deer not mov- Brimager, who heads up the ing as much for food and water. Texas Big Game Awards program Therefore the hunters weren’t from his post with the Texas seeing the deer.” Wildlife Association. But for those hunters who did “The last couple of years have see a whitetail, mule deer or been pretty darn good as com- antelope buck on the prowl last pared to the season in 1992, Continued on page 11 Page 8 May 27, 2005 FISHING

Crappie Attraction: A fisherman takes advantage of a roadway support structure when fishing for crappie. Conditions are excellent for catching the tasty fish. Minnows are a good bait to try in the shallows. Otherwise experts recommend artificial jigs.

Prime Time For North Texas Crappie Fishing ’Tis The Season To Target These Tasty Panfish On Region’s Reservoirs And Lakes

By Lynn Burkhead Calcutta cane pole and slip-bob- the present to target these tasty “Crappie don’t utilize vegeta- caught. ber combination. panfish as they invade the shal- tion like they do structure like “Usually, they won’t go down Moments later, the slip bob- lows. piers, docks, or sunken timber,” for them,” Brock said. “I’d start fter considerable diffi- ber quivered, then jolted “They’re so good to eat, but Brock said. “That’s why brush deep and work your way up culty in launching his sharply downward as the kid can be so hard to catch. So when piles (introduced by anglers) (until you find them).” boat on the spring rain - lifted the rod and swung aboard you do have the chance to get come into play because habitat is With a bevy of good crappie starved Lake Texoma, the first keeper crappie – but cer- them in shallow water where fairly limiting in some lakes.” lakes in the region – Cedar Creek, LarryA St. Clair was an angler on a tainly not the last – of the day. they’re pretty concentrated, you Crappie anglers can fish artifi- Eagle Mountain, Fork, Lavon, mission as he nestled his craft up By all appearances, the peak take advantage of that because it cial jigs or live minnows with Lewisville, Ray Hubbard, and to the first crappie brush pile of of this year’s spring crappie doesn’t happen too often,” good results. Richland Chambers all make the afternoon. spawn is at hand. Brock said. “That depends on your prefer- Brock’s short list – the crappie “Hook up one of these min- Texas Parks and Wildlife’s biol- Would be sac-au-lait anglers ence,” Brock said. “You can start fishing is certainly good right nows and slip it right in there ogy crew on Lake Grapevine had better hurry though. Brock with small jigs, and if that does- now. tight to that brush pile,” St. confirmed conditions were said they’ll be in shallow water n’t work, then you can go to And it’s likely to stay that way Clair instructed one angler. “If superb. for about two more weeks. small minnows and keep search- in years to come. you’re not getting hung up from “We caught a lot of crappie “When the water temps get ing till you find what works that “I’d say that the crappie fishing time to time, you’re not going to that were shallow in 3- to 4-feet into the low 80s, they’ll start day.” should be good for a couple of catch any crappie out of that of water,” said Rafe Brock, a TPW going into a little bit deeper Since crappie often group up years thanks to the good water brush pile.” inland fisheries district supervi- area,” he said. and hold at precise depths in the conditions of the last couple of Meanwhile, St. Clair’s long- sor from Fort Worth. “There Interested in a limit of crappie water column, one key to filling years,” Brock said. “When water time friend and visiting were about 20 or 30 in one area.” filets for the fish fryer? Then up the live well is to simply pay levels are high, we get good Floridian angler Glenn Hawley In other words, there may not think two things – shallow water attention to how deep your (crappie) recruitment and that helped a young boy rig his be any better time this year than and structure. offering is when the first fish is pays dividends for future years.” COMMENT PERIOD EXTENDED FOR ARKANSAS RIVER SHINER exans affected by the pro- include portions of the announced at that time. posal to include parts of Canadian River in New Information supplied during Tthe Canadian River area Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma, the comment period will be as critical habitat for the the Beaver/North Canadian essential in evaluating and threatened Arkansas River River of Oklahoma, the finalizing critical habitat areas shiner will have until June 17 Cimarron River in Kansas and and determining where the to comment. Oklahoma, and the Arkansas benefits of designating an area The U.S. Fish and Wildlife River in Arkansas, Kansas, and might outweigh the benefits of Service extended the comment Oklahoma. not including it. All comments period, which was originally The associated draft eco- collected will be considered Offshore – 8 to 12 hours for up to 6 people. scheduled to end April 30. nomic analysis and environ- and addressed in a final rule Prices start at $900.00 On Oct. 6, 2004 in response mental assessment are not yet due by Sept. 30. Bay – Half-day trips starting at $350.00 to a decision by the United completed. Rather than All information relevant to Full-day trips starting at $450.00 States Court for the District of allow the comment period to the critical habitat proposal as New Mexico, the U.S. Fish and expire and then reopen the published in the Federal All-inclusive trips available; please call for details Wildlife Service proposed des- comment period for the sup- Register is available on the Other packages available: ignating 1,244 river miles as porting documents, the com- Service’s website at Whitetail, Mule Deer and Spring Turkey. Hunting packages include critical habitat for the Arkansas ment period will be extended. http://ifw2es.fws.gov/Oklaho all meals, lodging, guides, care of game and airport pickup River shiner, including 300 feet A separate notice will be pub- ma/shiner.htm. Copies also (if applicable; please call for details) of adjacent riparian areas lished when the draft eco- can be requested by calling measured outward from each nomic analysis and draft envi- (918) 581-7458, extension 224. For more information, please contact Bucky and Leesa Bonner at bank. The areas determined to ronmental assessment are B&B OUTFITTERS - 800.460.1843 be essential to the conserva- completed. Hearing dates and — A U.S. Fish and Wildlife WWW.BBOUTFITTERS.COM tion of the threatened species locations will also be Service report May 27, 2005 Page 9

Great Bass Fishing Is Simply A Breeze TEXAS CATFISH RECORD FALLS? With The Right Mindset, Windy Days Result In Favorable Fishing It’s not official yet, but an Illinois man appears to have By John N. Felsher off solid objects. houetted against a bright sky. like wearing camouflage for fish- “In the summer, bass go deep When these images fall on a ing.” bested Texas’ claim to the in clear lakes because of oxygen placid surface in clear water, To sneak up on fish, use wind world-record blue catfish obody likes to fish and temperature reasons,” said they can spook wise old bass. power to drift across a flat, a caught on rod and reel May when brutal winds Alton Jones of Waco, a perennial “Wind breaks up the surface,” point or along a productive 22. churn a big reservoir Bassmaster Classic competitor. said Peter Thliveros, a veteran channel whenever possible. The Texas angler’s record into foam, but a stiff “Waves lapping against rocky bass pro from Jacksonville, Fla. Only use electric motors spar- blue catfish – still officially the breezeN can often put more fish in banks produce a lot of shallow “Flat calm conditions make fish ingly for directional control. In record holder — weighed a boat. oxygen and noise. I put the boat spooky and aware of everything some shallow grassy flats or 121.5 pounds and was caught Strong winds affect fishermen about a foot from the rocks and going on above and below the marshes, people can run boats by Cody Mullenix, of Howe, more than fish. Winds may make long casts parallel to the water. It’s one of the most diffi- upwind to the far shoreline, Texas. make casting and boat control bank.” cult conditions to catch fish. If raise their motors and drift. But Tim Pruitt, 33, of difficult and fishermen uncom- Jones prefers spinnerbaits wind breaks the water surface, it Once they hit the far side of Godfrey, Ill., landed a 124- fortable. When winds whip the pond or flat, boaters can pound catfish, measuring 58 lakes into muddy froth, most crank their outboards, run inches long. Its girth was 44 anglers look for shelter along the through already fished waters to inches. The fish was pulled lee shore, but they might run avoid disturbing unfished waters from the Mississippi River from the most productive areas and return to the far shoreline near Alton, Ill. It must be certi- on a lake. for another drift. If people plan fied to become the official Beneath the waves, fish may drifts successfully, they can record-holder. not notice the wind, but they do zigzag across highly productive Pruitt's fish is the largest notice abundant food and an waters with little effort almost catfish ever caught in Illinois. oxygen boost. Waves aerate undetected. Pruitt caught the trophy fish water by dissolving oxygen and Sometimes, winds blow too on mooneye baitfish. concentrate bait. With plentiful strongly to allow good drifting. “The catfish and Tim are food and oxygen, bass find A mighty wind might propel a about the same age—in their everything they need. What boat too rapidly across produc- 30s,” said Mike Conlin, works for bass also works for tive waters to allow anglers to Illinois Department of Natural speckled trout and redfish. work an area thoroughly. Resources Director of Resource “Getting in a cove or shoreline Tossing overboard a sea sock, a Conservation. “Tim fought out of the wind might be a mis- wet version of a windsock, the fish for about 40 minutes, WINDY CAST: Angler Jay Yelas casts to bass in heavy winds. take,” said Todd Faircloth, a catches water and creates drag and it dragged him more than Bassmaster Classic veteran from when fishing a windy shoreline. makes it difficult for fish to see.” that slows boat movement. A three miles downstream in his Jasper. “Often, wind can be a A heavy spinnerbait casts farther Wind also hides fishermen by simple plastic 5-gallon bucket on boat." friend. Unless conditions are than a light bait in a breeze. Big creating natural noise from a rope dragged behind a boat unbearable, like above 25 knots blades create more commotion waves hitting the shore, logs and creates a magnificent drag. —A staff report and I can’t hold position, I fre- and underwater noise to com- rocks or just by blowing across a Wind also creates constric- quently fish in the wind on pur- pete with natural sounds gener- surface. Bass grow accustomed tions around points, logjams, STATE EYEING pose.” ated by wave action. In stained to hearing breaking waves. In sandbars or narrow passes that Winds move plankton-rich water, big Colorado blades pro- effect, wind noise “jams” man- force fish into small areas. FISHING FUND waters. Shad and other baitfish vide more thumping action. made noises the way military Often, lunker bass hide on the A legislative plan to tap gather to feed on plankton as it Willow-leaf blades generally forces send signals to disrupt lee side of these wind-swept funds dedicated to improving stacks up along windward produce better in clear water and enemy sensors. choke points to ambush any- freshwater fishing in Texas is shores. Winds pushing water work best when anglers want Similarly, waves pounding thing currents might drive past almost “a done deal,” accord- drive bait from cover. Currents more speed. against rocks or shorelines mute their noses. As morsels appear, ing to a legislative observer. also disorient baitfish and break “As a general principle, if the human sounds. The more natu- bass dash out, gobble a few help- Instead of funding such up schools, making them easy wind is blowing 20 mph or ral noise, the less likely a bass ings and retreat to slack water to projects as an East Texas pickings for ravenous bass. more, a spinnerbait will catch might detect unnatural noises, conserve their energy. hatchery with money raised Breakers pounding shorelines fish better,” Jones said. “The such as electric motor propellers For probing windy points, use by sale of a freshwater stamp, also rip crawfish or other crea- harder the wind blows, the bet- whirring in still water. heavy baits and light line. expected to bring in $5 mil- tures from their hiding spots. ter bass bite spinnerbaits. One of Unnatural noises can easily Strong winds can wreak havoc lion annually before expiring Waves smashing through cover my favorite techniques is to run spook big bass, particularly in on lure placement. Wind catch- in 2014, state House and hurl clinging morsels into open a spinnerbait as fast as possible heavily pressured lakes such as es line just like it drives other Senate members announced water. In addition, winds can along a steep rocky bank. I use a Toledo Bend. objects. Heavy line catches they plan to fund the hatch- knock insects, lizards, frogs, 1/2 or 3/4-ounce willow-leaf “It’s impossible to keep from more breeze. Lighter line cuts ery by the sale of bonds. mice, snakes or other delectable spinnerbait because I want speed making noise in a boat,” Jones through wind more like a razor. While the move would creatures into the water. without lift. I like white and said. “On a windy day, bass When bass bust shad around lower the annual cost of pay- Winds cause currents. Like chartreuse with double No. 4 don’t care as much about noise. points, fast-burning Rat-L-Traps ing for the $15 million hatch- trout in swift streams, bass often and No. 3 gold willow-leaf On a calm, sunny day, almost produce excellent results. Run ery, it would raise the overall face upstream looking for food blades reeled fast and steady.” any small noise might spook a crankbaits around the ends of cost by as much as $9 million. to flow to them. This does not Wind also serves as excellent bass. Wind makes bass less points, parallel to structure or “You can almost stamp it a necessarily mean that they face natural camouflage for anglers, aware of human presence. through constricted water. done deal," said Jack King, into the wind. Water crashing lures, lines, boats and associated People need to learn how to use executive director of against a shoreline “mush- equipment. On calm days, fish wind to their advantage and not John N. Felsher is an outdoor writer Sportsmen’s Conservationists rooms” like a bullet as it bounces can see shadows or outlines sil- their detriment. Wind is almost based in Lake Charles, La. of Texas.

Continued from page 1 Deer Bill permit to draw up their own country, who landed at have caused privatization,” said would have allowed white-tailed “It put all the permits under management plan. For example, Jamestown and Plymouth Rock, Robert Saunders, a lobbyist for deer to be moved willy-nilly one umbrella,” Saunders said. owners could have determined one of their main reasons for the Texas Deer Association. “It with no kind of testing.” “I’m not positive how many peo- for themselves how many ani- leaving was that the king owned did allow you to move deer As a board, the TDA voted to ple would have applied for the mals could be killed annually. all the game. They landed here between like-permitted proper- oppose S.B.1765. But individual- combo permit. But it’s pretty It also would have allowed and established the North ties. You can do that now. I don’t ly, it was a different story. At least well known in the business deer to be transported across the American Wildlife Model, in understand where they came up two present and former TDA world that you don’t want to state without an inspection — if which the public owns the with that issue.” board members appeared before have to apply for a bunch of the scientific deer breeders ship- wildlife, kept in trust by the vari- But a TPW spokesman said a the Senate’s Natural Resources licenses to do a job." ping and receiving the deer had ous levels of government. Senate person with a scientific deer Committee to support the bill. A Langford said the bill was the comprehensive permits. Bill 1765 was the total opposite of breeder’s permit could only ship companion bill, S.B. 1766, which fatally flawed. He noted that it “This bill is privatization at its that philosophy.” deer between properties he owns would have transferred the per- lacked any habitation require- worst,” said David K. Langford, A legislative lobbyist for the without a permit. However, if he mitting of scientific deer breed- ment for a comprehensive per- vice president emeritus for the Texas Deer Association said TWA ships deer to another person, ers from the TPW to the Texas mit. Texas Wildlife Association. “The was engaging in hyperbole. even one with a scientific breed- Department of Agriculture, “With this bill, you could people who emigrated to this “Nothing in the bill would er’s permit, a purchase permit never made it out of committee. have raised and hunted white- would have to be obtained. And Although S.B. 1765 proved tail deer on an asphalt parking if deer were shipped during and controversial, Barnett said oppo- lot,” Langford said. “Places around hunting season, the sition isn’t why the bill was where their nutrition comes out antlers would have to be sawed tabled. of a paper sack. Someone driv- off. “The bill was not able to be ing in an air-conditioned Langford said such safeguards moved out of committee until Suburban could have come in, are needed given diseases like late in the process,” Barnett said. rolled down the window and Chronic Wasting Disease. “It really had to do with the time shot one. What’s that have to do “In any kind of animal agricul- constraints the senator was with hunting?” ture, if you move an animal, under in this Legislature." you’re going to be tested for dis- Saunders said he thought the Mark England is a Dallas-based Photo by Bobby Sanchez ease,” Langford said. “This bill bill had some good points. writer. Page 10 May 27, 2005 Paddlers Take To The Bayous Story and photos by David J. Sams

n Friday as the sun began to set on the Bayou City, almost 100 anglers tried to payO attention as an official with Extreme Edge Fishing talked about the kayak tournament rules. But when you get that many fishermen together in a small area, the inevitable happens – the fish talk begins. The out-of-towners – some came as far away as Virginia and Florida –- were obviously eaves- dropping as locals discussed the best fishing spots. Anahuac, Chocolate Bayou, San Luis Pass — were tossed out. And the anglers were soon debating the best spots. It was an important point because the next morning the anglers would test their mettle against redfish, trout and floun- der at the May 21 Extreme Edge Fishing Kayak Tournament Series. The contest, hosted by Fishing Tackle Unlimited in Houston, was the second of three national events to be held in Texas. Three other national tournaments will be held in unlucky anglers were loaned a Florida. The next tournament few boats during the practice will be July 9 at Sarasota, Fla. period before the tournament. The best way to win points Then, at the captains’ meeting, a and money is through a grand representative Ocean Kayaks slam. That’s where you catch the heard about their dilemma and best overall length of redfish, gave them new boats. trout and flounder. The slam On tournament day in the pre- winner gets $1,000 and points. dawn twilight, the teams began Second place slam wins $500 to put their kayaks into the and points. water. One team, Scott Null and The angler catching the best Dean Thomas, put in at single species wins $600, $300 Chocolate Bayou. Null works for for second prize, and a prize for the Houston Police Department third prize. Top anglers received and Thomas runs a fishing guide needed to get a really good shot points, along with the top service and shop in Aransas Pass. to show the exact length of the teams. Motorized boats sporting fish. It was really close to 27 1/4 KAYAKING SHOWDOWN: Dean Thomas casts to trout as a boat speeds by above. A These anglers were as competi- Johnsons, Mercurys and inches, but his tape measure did- tern dives into a school of menhaden as a trout feeds from underneath. Scott Null tive as they come, but they knew Yamahas raced past the two as n’t show that much detail. admires a 27-inch red. Team wilderness celebrates a victory. Thomas photographs how to look out for each other, they paddled to a shoreline very The morning fog started to his entry. too. near the boat ramp. Within the burn off as Null released his fish. grassy shoreline. Thomas spot- the splash and hooked up. Everyone soon heard the story hour, the two had caught a few “Now that is great, a nice red. ted a red with his back out of the Another nice red, 26 inches or about the guys from Florida who fish. Then Null caught a big red. Now I’ll move on and catch a water and slipped quietly up to so. came to town minus their He set the hook on a 27-inch red trout,” Null said with confi- the fish. He could see the red “Lets go get those trout! See kayaks. On their drive to Texas drum. The tourney is a catch- dence. He called his partner on skimming across a muddy the birds working on the other (names), their kayaks blew off of photo-and-release event. After the cell phone to report his under-layer of silt. When in side of the channel,” said their truck and an 18-wheeler struggling with the fish, Null catch. The two met on the next range, Thomas cast a DOA glow Thomas. flattened their boats. The struggled with the camera. He point and drifted down another shrimp and the fish turned on Continued on page 18 May 27, 2005 Page 11

Continued from page 1 Lower Laguna Madre Trout was fishing nearby and helped regularly scheduled interviews weigh, measure and photograph with anglers as they arrive dock- the fish. “I couldn’t believe how side. These netting samples and big it was,” Garcia said. “It took a harvest surveys are conducted little while, but we revived her, statewide by eight separate field and she swam off.” stations, including the Valley’s After sending in his photo- branch. graphs, along with his scale and This treasure trove of three other documentation, Rowland decades of data enables coastal received official notification from biologists to monitor fish popu- the International Game Fish lations and make corresponding Association in Florida that he management decisions. While had set a world record for the catch rates for spotted sea trout heaviest trout taken with a fly statewide remain stable, there is rod. Texas Parks and Wildlife later some concern in the Lower certified Rowland’s trout as the Laguna Madre. Biologists haven’t new state record. completed their 10-week spring The previous Texas record trout gill net survey this year, so it’s too was a 33.13-inch fish that early to analyze the numbers. weighed 13.69 pounds and was But the last several years have caught by James Wallace of revealed a downward trend. Houston in Baffin Bay on Feb. 6, “Our gill-net sampling for the 1996. Wallace still holds the past several years has been slight- record for rod and reel in the ly below the long-term average, state. The heaviest trout ever and our mean size for spotted sea taken was caught on rod and reel trout also continues to be a little in Florida and weighed 17 bit low,” Blankinship said. GET CHECKED: Texas Parks and Wildlife employees survey fishermen at a boat ramp in Aransas Pass. pounds 9 ounces and measured There are estimated to be more 39 inches. than 800,000 saltwater anglers anglers to Port Mansfield. There 10 years or more. pounds that was found floating The Lower Laguna Madre is the in Texas, and the number grows are some 73 bay guides working Trout spend their entire lives near the Point of Rocks at the state’s premier bay for trophy annually. Increased fishing pres- out of the South Padre primarily in the bay, and they mouth of Baffin Bay after the trout, a fact that is confirmed not sure by recreational fishermen Island/Port Isabel area, with spawn and reproduce in the bay. freeze of 1951. only with Rowland’s record but and guides has a substantial about 15 party boats and at least Biologists have also discovered Just how big can spotted also reflected in 30 years of effect on all game fish popula- 20 deep-sea captains. There is a that trout do not tend to migrate seatrout grow? Theoretically, fish research by Texas Parks and tions, including trout. fishing tournament nearly every over great distances and therefore continue to increase in size until Wildlife Coastal Fisheries biolo- This concern has been weekend along the Lower can be easily targeted. they die, and no one knows gists. addressed, and since 2002 Laguna Madre during the sum- “Our tagging studies have show exactly how long a wild trout can “Our gill-net surveys have anglers have not been allowed to mer months, culminating in the that trout usually don’t move live. Bud Rowland’s 37 1/4-inch shown that more than 50 per- keep more than one trout 25 biggest tournament along the much more than a mile,” record fish might be topping 40 cent of the trout that were 30 inches or larger per day, and entire Texas coast, the annual Blankinship said. Imagine for a inches by now. inches or greater came from the guides are no longer permitted to Texas International Fishing moment how difficult it has “Turn those big sows loose,” Lower Laguna Madre,” said keep a limit of fish while out Tournament which last year become for a territorial trout to Rowland urged. “They have a Randy Blankinship, Lower with paying customers. boasted more than 1,500 regis- reach that milestone of a decade good spawn plus they have great Laguna Madre Ecosystem Leader Fishermen are currently trants. without being caught. genetics. I used to keep them, but for the Texas Parks and Wildlife allowed to keep 10 trout per day In addition to daily guided Stories of legendary trout I learned. I guess we all learn thru Coastal Fisheries Division. with 20 allowed in possession for trips and weekly tournaments exceeding even Bud Rowland’s time.” “That’s more than all the other an overnight trip. Heavy fishing that target the biggest fish in the current state record abound, and bay systems combined, includ- pressure by night fishermen has bay, there is also increasing pres- one in particular is quite intrigu- Richard Moore is a freelance writer ing the Upper Laguna Madre. If prompted many sportsmen to sure from everyday anglers. ing. In a 50-page report titled “An and videographer from deep South you put the Upper and Lower support a reduction in the pos- Recreational fishermen are much Ecological Survey of the Upper Texas. He hosts “News from the together, you are looking at close session limit to help the fishery better equipped than in years Laguna Madre,” published in Outdoors” on the Valley’s ABC to 80 percent.” recover. past with extreme, shallow-run- 1957 by Institute of Marine affiliate News Channel Five. His Since 1975, Texas Parks and The astounding increase in ning boats, global positioning Science at the University of Texas, articles appear every Sunday in the Wildlife has collected extensive fishing pressure in the Lower systems, and other high-tech there is mention of a 48-inch Valley Morning Star, Brownsville data from all the states seven Laguna Madre is revealed in gear. trout weighing an estimated 25 Herald and McAllen Monitor. major bay systems using bag both the growing number of The Lower Laguna Madre has seines, shrimp trawls and gill licensed guides and in the soar- historically been the best place nets. Each bay is divided into ing entries in local tournaments. for trophy trout in the state pri- sampling grids and those grids For decades the Lower Laguna marily because fishing pressure are then randomly selected for Madre was not heavily fished, was relatively light, but as that placement of gill nets. and compared to most other pressure increases the chances for Through 2004 in 19 years of Texas bay systems, fishing pres- trout to mature to trophy status coast-wide gill-net surveys, 201 sure is still light. may be diminished. trout 30 inches or better have In 1988 there were only 12 full- Female trout grow much faster been taken with 107 of them time guides working out of Port than males, and while a 7-year- coming from the Lower Laguna Mansfield; there are now at least old male trout may measure only Madre. 54. In 1988 there were 29 19 inches, a similarly aged female In addition to gill net surveys, entrants in the JPGriffon tourna- could easily top 26 inches. bag seines and trawls, coastal ment, while the recent weekend Thirty-inch plus trout are prima- fisheries biologists also conduct event attracted more than 250 rily females, and they may live for

Continued from page 7 TBGA Awards fall or winter, odds are it was a 185 7/8 inches. herd all across Texas.” big one. “I was pretty proud after it all 2004-2005 Texas Big Game Take the hunt of Jonathan took place,” Burpo said. “I could Awards Top Animals: Burpo of Dodd City, for hardly believe it.” White-tailed deer instance. Brimager is quick to point out Top typical: Lloyd R. French IV After seeing a big mule deer that it isn’t just hunters like (Atascosa County) – 200 3/8 during pre-season scouting, Burpo who harvest a world-class inches gross; 187 6/8 inches net. Burpo capped a lengthy archery big game animal that have rea- Top non-typical: Hunt Allred season opening-day stalk with a son to be proud of their Lone (Collingsworth County) – 235 1/8 20-yard shot from his Mathews Star State hunting results. inches gross; 226 7/8 inches net. bow. The shot was good and the In fact, he is working hard to Mule deer Grayson County College stu- grow and promote the TBGA Top typical: Frankie L. Keller dent soon found himself tagging program’s youth and first-time (Childress County) – 192 6/8 his first bow-killed animal ever. harvest aspects in coming years. inches gross; 186 3/8 inches net. His first bow buck also just “Whether a hunter is a youth Top non-typical: Dock Ringo happened to be the best mule or an 88-year-old grandfather, (Brewster County) – 222 7/8 deer buck ever taken with they, too, can get a certificate for inches gross; 216 5/8 inches net. archery tackle in the Lone Star harvesting an animal,” Brimager Pronghorn antelope State, according to the Pope & said. “Our program is a ‘recogni- Top buck: Thad Steele Young Club’s archery records. tion program’ and not just a ‘big (Hudspeth County) – 89 3/8 The 5-by-5 typical “muley” buck contest.’” inches gross; 87 4/8 inches net. also ranks as the state’s second Brimager said he’s already best TBGA mule deer for 2004- looking ahead to the program’s Top animals source: David 2005, sporting a gross score of 15th anniversary season. Brimager, Texas Big Game Awards 187 5/8 inches and a net score of “We have a great whitetail Program Page 12 May 27, 2005 Who Likes Ike? Bass Fishing’s Bad Boy To Attend Texas Tournament

Photos by David J. Sams Alan Clemmons lasted so long that some ol’ said one veteran angler, who that position, though, and he’ll grinned broadly at being the Cajun in a pirogue still is out watched almost gleefully in the learn from the experience. center of attention. there wondering “Wha’ dat?” Classic media room as Iaconelli As we were getting ready to Ike is not the future of bass onfident? Yep, but his and looking for someone to got his on-stage minute of leave to shoot photos, two cou- fishing, but he’s part of it. Part of non-conformist atti- shoot at. ESPN2 airtime (but didn’t tell ples walked a new wave of anglers, a mixture tude rubs some wrong If you saw Iaconelli last season the fans he had been disquali- on the of the old and new, a mixture of way. in Florida, he was catching 2- fied): “If I’d known he was going dock the Ray Scott era and ESPN era CIt’s funny how preconceived pounders at Toho and screaming to be disqualified, I’d have been where that is shuffling the way things notions can be blown away by for the cameras. “Shaddup!” break-dancing on the front deck Ike’s new are done. the simple act of spending a few someone said, annoyed by the of my boat.” Ranger Just moments with strangers or kids. Classic carry-over. If you keep up Two seasons have If you follow the Bassmaster with the tour, you know he was passed since Ike, as he Tour, you’ve probably seen at reprimanded by B.A.S.S. for not is known on the like with Ike and the other some point the footage of 2003 having his life jacket buckled tour, hoisted the young guns, there are some who Bassmaster Classic champion while the outboard was Classic trophy. He is one don’t like the changes. Mike Iaconelli screaming running. of the young guns making waves was tied up. Ike knows it. He’s heard the and beating his chest in During the with the older generation. They had a talk, read the stories and the New Orleans Bassmaster Classic His untucked, black tourna- youngster, Internet posts. He admits it isn’t marsh. His continued in Charlotte, he was ment shirt with red flames lick- maybe 14-15 easy to hear or read — who likes primal — many say disqualified on the ing around his belly hides his months old, having his name dragged in the made-for-TV — second day for fish- multi-tattooed body. The shirt, a and wanted mud? But he adds that people emotional ing in an off-limits visible brand of his personality, to chat. Ike who don’t know him or what outburst area. The defending stands out as does his cap eagerly he’s about don’t truly under- champion, for crying perched crookedly on his head. greeted stand. out loud, had a DQ! He has gotten away from his them, He is dedicated. He is fiercely Immediately, gym work, yet still has a lean signed competitive. He wants to win, rumors began that torso, energy to burn and stami- auto- every time. he purposely did it na for long days on the water. graphs, Ike and some of the other since he had no Last month at Table Rock in and gave younger generation anglers are fish and needed Missouri, I spent some time with them 15 unique individuals, not cookie- some attention. Ike on and off the water during a minutes cutter punch-outs, lending some But why would a Pure Fishing media event follow- of his flava’ to the punchbowl. Classic champ ing the last Bassmaster tourna- time There may not be any “I like want that dis- ment. Who I found was a quiet, instead of Ike” buttons making the rounds, graceful lega- courteous guy not seeking any trying to as there were for the popular cy? spotlight, a knowledgeable get away. president 50 years ago, but there angler who patiently explained He pulled a should be. simple things, a free-spirited, fat large- Iaconelli is expected to com- engaging young man who loves mouth from pete in the Bassmaster Elite 50 to fish and enjoys being around his livewell to tournament series that runs other folks. show the June 1-10 at Lewisville Lake, the Kids, and some adults, always youngster, tournament’s only stop in Texas. ask for autographs and photos. who Ike graciously complies. Even Alan Clemons is Outdoors Editor after missing the Table Rock cut, of The Huntsville Times in when he admitted he wanted to Ala. Contact him at get a cold beer and break his rods [email protected] over his knees. Being second in or visit the Angler of the Year standings www.al.com/outdoors. and blowing it was tough. It won’t be the last time he’s in May 27, 2005 Page 13 PRODUCT PICKS

TAKES NO LIP: The revolutionary Platinum Series from Castaic Soft Baits takes swim bait realism to a new level. Traditional swim baits rely upon an unrealistic lip for stability and a boot-tail for action. The Platinum Series’ patent- pending design uses an internal harness containing the weight and an internal stabilizer, eliminating the need for a lip. The special v-groove HIT THE SHOWERS: In the woods on the sides of the lure uses water flow to open and close the sides of or at the lake, a hot shower is the lure, and the side-to-side action gives the lure its ultra-realistic available anywhere with the swimming action. For more information, visit castaicsoftbait.com. portable Hot Tap from Zodi Outback Gear. Great for family camping, the portable and self- contained Hot Tap is compact (about the size of a hiking boot) and easy to transport. A powerful water pump delivers great water pressure using just four D-cell batteries. Fueled by a 16.4- ounce disposable propane cylinder, the Hot Tap heats more than 60 gallons of water between fuel refills. The extra-long 8-foot shower hose features a water-saving showerhead. The Hot Tap sells for about $110 at sporting good stores. For more information visit www.zodi.com.

HOT SHOT: High-tech ergonomic design and sizzling velocity make the .177-caliber Signature Series Remington Genesis 1000X by Crosman a serious air rifle for serious shooters. Ergonomic features include a synthetic pistol-style grip, a sculpted cheek-piece and an ambidextrous safety. Only 28 pounds of cocking force on the break-barrel is required to deliver a hard-hitting 1000 fps muzzle velocity. The combo includes a 3-9x40 scope with positive click target turrets and adjustable AO and Mil-Dot reticle. The Genesis 1000X sells for about $230 at outdoor retailers. Visit www.crosman.com for more information.

GLOW GETTER: Engineered specifically for offshore fishing, Blue Mystique Mack Daddy interchangeable teasers from PPI-Sports phosphoresce for hours after only 90 seconds of BETTER BAITER: It’s not too early to be exposure to sunlight. Rigged with thinking about next fall’s big buck, and the live baits or bait replacements, American Hunter H-350 is the feeder to bring the teasers cast a hypnotic glow him in. The H-350 features a heavy-duty with a range of colors. The steel 55-gallon, 350 pound capacity hopper polished head and vibrant colors with a lever-lock ring for the top. Three 8- make the Mack Daddy an foot, sectional galvanized legs support the irresistible target for King unit. The H-Kit timer/spinner unit is one of Mackerel. The beaded tentacles the most versatile and durable on the create turbulence and action as market. The unit is encased in powder- the teasers dance and skitter with coated steel to resist the elements, and it engineered precision. The Mack features a built-in solar charger for the 6- Daddy retails for $3.99 for a 3-pack. volt battery. The digital timer is Visit www.bluemystique.com for more programmable for up to 16 feeding information. times per day with variable daily combinations and the feed rates are adjustable. The H-350 sells for about $200. Check out www.americanhunterfeeders.com.

IT’S IN THE VAULT: Keep handguns out of the wrong hands and valuables secure with the GV2000 Multi from GunVault. Constructed of 16-gauge steel with high-strength lock mechanisms and precise fittings that are almost PEAK PERFORMER: Columbia River Knife and Tool named its Summit 14 Series of exceptional knives for impossible to pry open, the GV2000 Multi offers reliability and peace of the 14,000-foot North American peaks and made them for the adventurers who scale them. The Pikes mind. The patented “No-Eyes Keypad” can be programmed with any of Peak blade-lock folder features an aircraft-style drilled “skeleton” design that reduces weight without more than 12 million access codes, and audio feedback confirms correct compromising strength. The 2.5-inch high-carbon 420J2 stainless steel blade has a modified drop-point code entry. A tamper indicator notes invalid entry attempts, and the built- shape and a bead-blast finish. The handle is designed with an extended guard and a bead-blast finish in computer blocks access after repeated invalid key entries. The GV2000 for extra gripping power. Double-grooved ambidextrous thumb studs and Teflon bearings at the blade sells for about $120. Visit www.impactguns.com or www.gunvault.com for pivot allow smooth, one-handed operation. About $40. Visit www.crkt.com to find a dealer near you. more information. Page 14 May 27, 2005 MADE IN TEXAS Curbello Masters Art Of Fishing

By Mark England

hen Robert setting me up,” he said. “I used which is polished with such Curbello tackles a her plasma cutter and her tools as a grinder, welder, pliers fish these days, he’s welder. Of course, not too many and a hammer. more apt to use a mothers have those kinds of He takes pains to create raised hammerW than a rod and reel. tools. Mine was in the nursery eyes, weld the fins on and give That’s because the Fort Worth business for more than 20 them a textured look that seems artist spends a lot of time mak- years.” engraved. To Curbello, the ing them out of sheet metal at a During that time, she spotted result is a wall-mounted sculp- Weatherford workshop. An avid a need for landscape art. ture. angler, Curbello admits his pur- Curbello helped his mother “I want it to seem realistic to suit doesn’t beat casting a line. meet it until his own artistic the buyer,” he said. “I put in At least when he’s done, howev- inclinations began clamoring to extra effort to get that effect.” er, his fish is ready to be hung on get out. The effect certainly affected a wall. “I wanted to make some deer David and Jody Cassady, owners “A lot of the art around this and fish and get away from of The Full Stringer Lodge in area is either paintings of blue- doing the fairies and angels,” Matagorda. They’ve bought 15 bonnets or western art or, on the Curbello said. “I made some fish of Curbello’s pieces. other side, postmodern, boxes and showed them to my broth- “The (guy’s) extremely talent- welded together or paint splat- er. He had a friend who was a ed,” David Cassady said. “We’ve tered on canvas,” Curbello said. guide in Matagorda. We split a got them displayed throughout “My stuff’s on the edge of arts booth at a Houston fishing our lodge. I’ve got some wahoo, and craft and fine art: fine craft, show. I started making red snap- several trout and flounder. I Photos by David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoor News. I guess.” per, speckled trout, flounder, even have some of his work in Curbello, who graduated from inshore and offshore game fish my personal residence. He’s just http://wadefishing.com. as sitting at a table with a plate of the Rocky Mountain School of and selling them.” a very creative fellow.” His work will take a twist this hay — “eating like a horse, you Design in Denver, started his Curbello draws a paper pat- Curbello’s art can also be fall. American Ranch Designs know” — and, of course, fishing career as a folk artist. He went tern before making a fish. Then found at galleries in Fort Worth plans to market a whimsical on a riverbank. into business with his mother, he copies it onto a piece of 18- such as the Artful Hand and the creature created by Curbello “You’ve got to throw your line Leslie Johnson, in Springtown. gauge sheet metal. A plasma cut- Morton House. It can also be called Buck the Horse, which out there and see what bites,” “I’ve got to give her credit for ter slices out the basic form, seen on the Internet at will be shown doing such things Curbello said. TEXAS WORD TREASURES WILD IN THE KITCHEN

For crossword puzzle solution, see page 18

Across 1. Deer hunters often find these in their stands. 5. Day is done. 6. Type of shad 8. Mexican cowboy Check out other great recipes at aboutseafood.com. Photo by National Fisheries 10. Snake tooth Institute. 12. Relating to the bottom of a body of water. Mexican Shrimp Pilaf 13. Main ingredient in Calamari 1 (6.8-ounce) package Spanish frequently. Slowly add water, Fritti. rice and vermicelli mix seasoning packet from rice, and 14. Feet per second, initials 2 tablespoons margarine, melt- tomatoes; bring to a boil. Cover; 16. Porcupine bobber ed reduce heat to low and simmer 18. Inflatable sleeping cushion 2 cups water 10 minutes. Stir in shrimp, zuc- 1 (14 1⁄2 -ounce) can diced toma- 21. Deaf Smith's first name toes, undrained chini, corn and olives; cover and 23. San Antonio is county seat 3⁄4 pound large shrimp, peeled simmer 5 to 10 minutes or until 24. Spotted cat on endangered and deveined shrimp are pink and rice is ten- list. Copyright 2004 Texas Word Treasures, Greg Berlocher. All Rights Reserved. 1 cup zucchini, chopped der. Transfer to serving bowl. 25. Measure of water’s saltiness 1⁄2 cup frozen whole kernel Sprinkle with chips, cheese and corn, thawed onion. Serve with picante sauce. 5. Measure of gun powder 17. Fish with prehistoric roots 2 tablespoons ripe olives, sliced Down 7. Type of pliers 19. .22 caliber cartridge filled 2 tablespoons tortilla chips, Nutritional information per 2. Measurement indicating crushed 9. Smallest spinning reel with pellets serving: acidity or alkalinity 1⁄2 cup Cheddar cheese, grated 20. You hammer this into the Calories: 390 11. Sausage festival in New 2 tablespoons green onion, 3. Clay target game designed to ground when camping. Fat: 13.26 grams simulate hunting Braunfels chopped 21. Tides ______and flow. Protein: 20.77 grams 4. Provides waterfront services 15. Season runs from October 30 1 jar picante sauce Sodium: 16.30 milligrams to boaters - February 27 22. Deer food, planted in plots. Cholesterol: 115.72 milligrams Sauté rice in margarine in a Sat. Fat: 4.48 grams large skillet until golden, stirring Makes 4 servings May 27, 2005 Page 15 WEATHER

BORDERING TEXAS

fishery should not be affected,” and Restoration Act, is to reduce and Fish will be conducting said Assistant Chief of Fisheries or eliminate nutria damage to roadblocks throughout the Mike Armstrong. “We are going Louisiana’s wetlands by increas- state. This effort will run to wait until June before we ing the annual harvest to through February 2006. begin the drawdown to protect 400,000 nutria. To increase the “Spring brings folks back out the bass that may be spawning harvest, registered participants after a long and cold winter,” in the shallow water.” received a $4 incentive payment says Brian Gleadle, northwest OKLAHOMA ARKANSAS The pavilion is a joint project for each nutria tail brought to area division chief. “People will of the City of Pine Bluff, official collection locations be heading out to hunt and fish, Exotic Beetles Used To Lake Pine Bluff Drops Level Jefferson County and Pine Bluff along Louisiana’s coast. and it’s our goal to check as Fight Invading Weeds The Arkansas Game and Fish Downtown Development to Information was collected many hunters and anglers as Officials at the Oklahoma Commission will begin lower- draw more people and events to from each participant to deter- possible. Roadblocks are one Department of Wildlife ing the level in Lake Pine Bluff the lake. The AGFC also will be mine the method of take, car- method we use to look for viola- Conservation are teaming up the first week of June to permit able to host fishing derbies, edu- cass use, as well as harvest date tions.” with the Oklahoma Department construction of a new pavilion cational programs and other and location. Game and Fish personnel may of Agriculture, Food, and on the lakeshore. community events at the lake The majority of the nutria be assisted by other law enforce- Forestry to make a meal out of The pavilion, planned to once construction is completed. were harvested in the southeast- ment agencies such as the New alligatorweed. accommodate a farmers’ market ern portion of the state again Mexico State Police and local Homeowners and officials and an amphitheater, is being this year, which is where most sheriff’s departments, which unleashed the alligatorweed flea built over the water to bring wetland damage caused by will be checking for proper dri- beetle this month to kill the more visitors to the lake. Heavy nutria is located. ver’s licenses, proof of insurance aquatic invader, which originat- equipment will be needed to set and vehicle registration. ed from South America. The pilings that will support the ele- Driving while intoxicated, plant can grow up to 6 feet deep. vated pavilion. The lake’s levee seat belt violations and other Alligatorweed has taken over has begun to deteriorate, and offenses of the motor vehicle seven of the 14 lakes in the the lower level also will protect LOUISIANA code will be enforced. The U.S. Spring Creek drainage area near it from further degradation Just Say No To Nutria Forest Service and Bureau of Oklahoma City. Efforts to rid the until it can be reinforced. The Louisiana Department of Land Management rangers also lakes of the ugly weeds included Although the lake will be Wildlife and Fisheries’ 2004- may assist at times. pulling up weeds and spraying drawn down for construction, 2005 Coastwide Nutria Control NEW MEXICO In addition to roadblocks, the them with herbicides, but noth- the water level will only be Program season concluded with Spring Means Roadblocks New Mexico Game and Fish ing worked. reduced to the top of the riprap 311 participants harvesting In an effort to detect hunting department will be conducting Fortunatley, alligatorweed has on the levee, so people can still 297,535 nutria. and fishing violations and to night and day decoy operations. an Achilles’ heel - the alligator- enjoy the water. The goal of the springtime collect harvest information, These may occur throughout weed flea beetle. The voracious “We’re only dropping the program, funded by the Coastal conservation officers of the New the year and anywhere in the beetles feed exclusively on alliga- water level around 2 feet, so the Wetlands Planning Protection Mexico Department of Game state. torweed, eating it untill it's gone. Page 16 May 27, 2005 THIS WEEK’S FISHING REPORT

CENTRAL NORTHEAST ups. Catfish are excellent on punch bait in 4- and blue catfish are very goodon Lewis King O.H. IVIE: Water lightly stained; 67 degrees; 12 feet. White bass are excellent on Rat-L- punchbait, shrimp, and Redneck soap bait. 21.45' low. Black bass are fairon live baits BASTROP: Water stained. Black bass are slow. ATHENS: Water stained; 70-72 degrees; nor- Traps around main lake points. Hybrid stripers Yellow catfish arefair on trotlines and juglines and shad-colored spinnerbaits along brush mal pool. Black bass are good onCarolina rigs Crappie are good on minnows and chartreuse are fair on liveperch and Sassy Shads. baited with hybrid bluegills, comets, andlarge and grass lines. Crappie are good on minnows on points in 10-18 feet. Crappie are good on tube jigs. Channel and blue catfish are good minnows. and jigs. White bass are fair on live bait and on shrimp, liver, and stinkbait. Yellow catfish jigs and minnowsin 3-6 feet.. Catfish are good PAT MAYSE: Water clear; 70-74 degrees; nor- small chartreuse with black back crankbaits. are slow. on punch bait and worms around baited mal pool. Black bass are good onCarolina rigs MEDINA: Water stained; 72 degrees; 0.25' Smallmouth bass are fair onlive bait and holes. and Rat-L-Traps in 3-10 feet. Crappie are high. Black bass to 4 pounds are fair on BELTON: Water fairly clear. Black bass are fair excellent onblack/chartreuse Betts Crinkle pumpkinseed 4" Berkley power worms and small crankbaits. Channel catfish are good on BOB SANDLIN: Water clear; 70-75 degrees; on topwaters. Hybrid striper are very good on jigs and small live minnows in 2-4 feet. pearl Bomber “A’s” in 5 - 18 feet. Striped cutbaits andminnows. 0.30' low. Black bass are good onCarolina rigs black shad in 40 - 48 feet. White bass are Catfish are excellent on punch bait along sub- bass are fair drifting live goldfish and live off main lake and secondary points. Crappie POSSUM KINGDOM: Water clear; 69 degrees; good on minnows and slabs early and late. merged creek ledges in 4-8 feet. White bass shad near thedam and trolling 2oz. white are good on jigsand minnows in 3-6 feet 4.3' low. Black bass are fair in Rock Creek Crappie are slow. Channel and blue catfish are excellent on slabs in 15-20 feet around Curb's spinner striper jigs. White bass are around heavy brush. White bass are good and Caddo areas. Crappie are slow on live are fair on stinkbait and shrimp. Yellow cat- humps. Hybridstripers are excellent large fairtrolling root beer/chartreuse Bomber “A’s” onRat-L-Traps in mid to lower lake. Catfish bait. White bass aregood near Carter Bend fish are slow. Rat-L-Traps and topwaters around main lake- and drifting live minnows acrossmain lake are good on punch bait over holesbaited with and Carter Island. Striped bass are slow on BROWNWOOD: Water stained in the main lake, humps and points in the Sanders Cove area- points in 10 - 20 feet. Smallmouth bass to 3 soured grain in shallow water. live bait.Blue and channel catfish are fair in clearing in the rivers; 69 degrees; 0.34' low. some hybrids caught off the rocksat the dam. pounds are fair on watermelon seed YUM the upper part of reservoir. BRIDGEPORT: Water clear; 71-75 degrees. Black bass to 4 pounds are excellent on spin- RAY HUBBARD: Water stained; 71-73 degrees; Sooies and black/blue 3/8oz. Terminator jigs Black bass good on Carolina riggedworms and SWEETWATER: Water lightly stained; 66 nerbaits, crankbaits, June bug and dark 0.12' low. Black bass are good onshad pattern with blue-sky flake YUM trailers and live craw- worms, and brush hogs on the main lake. Rat-L-Traps around rock rip rap and shoreline degrees; 30.15' low. Black bass arefair on live Rat-L-Traps around rock rip rap in 3-10 feet. fish over rock piles in 8 - 20 feet. Crappie are bait and white spinnerbaits. Crappie are fair Hybrid striper to 6 pounds are fair on live cover. Crappie goodon minnows jigs around fair on live minnows and pink/white 1.5" YUM Crappie are goodon jigs around cattails in 2-6 on minnows and jigs. White bass are fair on bait. White bass are good trolling crankbaits docks with brush and reed beds. White bass Wooly Hawg tails around brushpiles and the feet. White bass are good on slabs and jigging live bait. Catfish are good on minnows and- in the State Park area with some schooling in areexcellent on slabs and live shad in 12-15 backs of creeks in 10 - 17 feet. Channel and spoons in 15-24 feet around The Peanut at shad. the Baptist Encampment area. Crappie are feet around sandy points close todeep water. blue catfish are good on garlic with chicken Hybrid striper are good on live shad in 10-16 the Jetties and RobertsonPark. Hybrid striper WHITE RIVER: Water lightly stained; 67 excellent on small tubes and minnows on the are fair in 20 feet on live shad and perch. blood Eagle Claw biscuits, shrimp and live main lake shorelines. Channel catfish are fair feet. Channelcatfish are excellent in 10-15 minnows. Yellow catfish are fair on hybrid degrees; 17.5' low. Black bass arefair on big feet on fresh shad and punch bait. Catfishare good on fresh shad and punch bait white tubes, and white spinnerbaits around on stinkbait and shrimp. Yellow catfish are in 15-20 feet around the edge of treelines; bluegills and goldfish. the brush. Crappieare good on jigs and min- fair on live bait. CADDO: Water clear; 70-74 degrees; 0.25' channel catfish moving to rocky areas. BUCHANAN: Water clear; 69 degrees; 2.40' high. Black bass are good on Texasrigged nows. Walleye are fair on minnows. Channel worms around isolated cypress trees and Rat- RAY ROBERTS: Water clear; 71-73 degrees; SOUTHEAST catfishare good on live bait and cut baits. low. Black bass to 6 pounds are good on 0.05' high. Black bass are good onCarolina white πoz. Terminator buzzbaits, weightless L-Traps along the riverledge close to lily pads. CONROE: Water stained. Black bass are good Crappie are excellent on live minnow in 3-6 rigged centipedes in 8-15 feet around main on chartreuse/green spinnerbaits,crankbaits, green/pumpkin Whacky Sticks, and Daiquiri lake points. Crappie areexcellent on minnows COASTAL Skip-N-Pop topwaters. Striped bass are good feetalong the Cypress River channel. White and Rat-L-Traps in 10 - 20 feet. Striped bass bass are good in the river channel.Channel and black/chartreuse jigs in shallow water are slow. Crappie are fair on minnows and NORTH SABINE: Trout are good on the north trolling white/blue Hyper Striper jigs, casting back increeks and along shoreline brush and spoil bank shorelines on black TopDogs and Spoiler Shads, and drifting live bait from catfish are good on small live bream. Bream green Curb’s crappie jigs. Catfish are fair reeds. White bass are excellent onspoons and Super Spooks. Flounder are good on the Black Rock to Flag Island in 20 - 30 feet are excellent oncrickets, worms and small onstinkbait, liver, and shrimp. slabs in 22-28 feet. Catfish are good on Louisiana shoreline on mudminnows and red early. White bass are good on 2" Spoiler crawfish in shallow water. HOUSTON COUNTY: Water stained with clear punch bait and cut baitin 12-20 feet. shad plastics. Redfish are good on live shad Shads, silver πoz. Perk Minnows, and live shallows; 75 degrees; 0.57' high.Black bass CEDAR CREEK: Water stained; 70-74 degrees; in the marsh. minnows in 15 - 25 feet. Crappie are good on 0.17' low. Black bass are good onTexas rigged RICHLAND CHAMBERS: Water stained; 70-72 to 5 pounds are good on watermelon red and 1/16oz. Curb's crappie jigs and live minnows worms around concrete structures and in degrees; 0.20' low. Black bass aregood on green worms at the pump station in 3 - 6 SOUTH SABINE: Trout are fair to good on the in 4 - 12 feet. Channel catfish are good over small pockets off themain lake. White bass Carolina rigs and Rat-L-Traps around main feet, and on June bug Finesse worms and Reef on red shad and black BassAssassins, sand bars at the mouth of the river. Yellow are excellent on TNT Lures in 22-25 feet on lake and secondary points.White bass are wacky worms inthe south cove near the mari- Trout Killers, Sand Eels and Stanley and blue catfish are good on trotlines and jug- main lakehumps. Hybrid striper are good on excellent on chartreuse slabs fished close to na in 10 - 12 feet. Crappie to 1.75 pounds Wedgetails. Trout, sandtrout, redfish and lines. Sassy Shad under the birds in the flatsbe- bottom in20-24 feet around submerged oil aregood but scattered on live minnows near sheepshead are good at night from the tween Crappie Island and the dam. Crappie well pads and points- Pelican Island and the the marina and in creek channels in 15 - 20 Causeway pier onlive shrimp and tandem- CANYON LAKE: Water gin clear; 70 degrees; 309 Flats a good spot to find schooling fish. 1.19' high. Black bass are good on white are good on tube jigs and smallminnows in 4- feet. Bream are good on live worms off piers. rigged Little Fishies.BOLIVAR: Trout are fair to 6 feet docks with brush. Catfish are excellent Hybrid stripers are fair inthe lower lake on Catfish to 5 pounds are good on trotlines bait- good in protected areas on topwaters and 7/16oz. Terminator spinnerbaits, umpkin/char- shad pattern Rat-L-Traps. Crappie are fair on treuse Whacky Sticks, and 1/2oz. Bleeding in 4-15 feet on Danny King’s Punch Bait on ed with cut shad and stinkbait off piers. Corkies.Redfish and black drum are good on holes baited with soured grain. minnows in6-8 feet around heavy brush and LIVINGSTON: Water fairly clear; 71 degrees; cut-bait on the beachfront and atRollover Shad Traps along bluffs and main lake points timber in feeder creeks around Oak Cove in 8 - 15 feet early. Striped bass are slow. COOPER: Water stained; 71-74 degrees. Black 0.20' high. Black bass to 4 pounds are good Pass. Marina. Catfish are excellent on Danny King’s on crankbaits and spinnerbaits. Striped bass TRINITY BAY: Trout are fair to good at White bass are good on Spoiler Shads, Blade bass are good on Top Dogblack/blue lizards Punch Bait and fresh shad in 3-10 feet. Runners, and vertically jigging Perk Minnows and Rat-L-Traps. Crappie are good on min- are slow. Whitebass are good on Charlie slabs, Spoonbill Reef on red shad and glow/char- on main lake points. Smallmouth bass are nows and pearlBetts Krinkle jigs with a slip TAWAKONI: Water stained; 70-73 degrees; pet spoons, and hellbenders. Crappie are very treuse plastics. Flounder are fair to good on good on pumpkin 4" worms on jigheads, and cork in 3-6 feet. Catfish are excellent ontrot- 0.18' low. Black bass are fair on plastic good on minnows. Channel and blue catfish red shad plasticstipped with shrimp in the pumpkin Craw Baby and root beer/green flake lines baited with live bait and in baited holes worms in shallow water. Crappie are good on are very good on shad and cutbait. Yellow cat- bayous. Redfish, sand trout and black drum 3" curl tail grubs on 1/8 oz. jigheads. Crappie on punch bait in 8-16feet along creek chan- live minnows jigs in 6-12 feet at the Duck fish are slow. arefair on live bait at the Spillway. Cove Fishing Barge and around man made are good on 1/16oz. Curb’s crappie jigs and nels. White bass are fair on chrome Rat-L- SAM RAYBURN: Water lightly stained; 70 EAST GALVESTON BAY: Trout and redfish are brush piles. White bass are excellent on 1oz. minnows upriver in 4 - 12 feet. Channel cat- Traps. degrees; 0.06' low. Black bass are good on fair to good while drifting openshell on red white or chartreuse Hoiliday Slabs on humps fish are fair on shrimp and stinkbait. Yellow FAIRFIELD: Water clear; 72-77 degrees; normal chartreuse/white spinnerbaits and crankbaits shad and glow/chartreuse Bass Assassins, and blue catfish are good on live bait. out from mid to lower lake points and school- along shorelines and ingrass in 4 - 10 feet, pool. Black bass are good onworms and shad ing over submerged humps. Striped bass and Trout Killers, SandEels and Hogies. Trout and DUNLAP/MCQUEENY: Water stained; 72 pattern crankbaits around lay down logs and and on Carolina rigged dark soft plastics in redfish are fair to good on the south shoreli- hybrid striper are good under the birds on 4" hydrilla. Crappie are fair on live minnows. degrees. Black bass are fair on red/white spin- brush and reedbeds. Catfish are excellent on Sassy Shadand large Rat-L-Traps. Catfish are neon plastics and live shrimp. nerbaits and Rat-L-Traps. White bass are fair small pieces of cut bait and punch baitaround Catfish are good on trotlines and juglines bait- WEST GALVESTON BAY: Trout are fair to good excellent on fresh shad and punch baitaround ed with liver, shrimp and live bait. on red shad Roadrunners and Tiny Traps. sandy points in 6-10 feet. Redfish are good rock rip rap. while drifting deeper shell reefson red shad Crappie are fair on live minnows and char- on large Rat-L-Traps andsmall live sunfish. TOLEDO BEND: Water stained north, clear TEXOMA: Water clear; 71-74 degrees; 4.59' Bass Assassins, Sand Eels, Trout Killers and treuse green tube jigs. Catfish are good on Bream are excellent on worms in 2-4 feet, south; 70 degrees; 1.89' low. Blackbass are Stanley Wedgetails.Trout are fair in the Ship liver and stinkbait in 10 - 25 feet. Yellow cat- many breamweighing more than one pound low. Largemouth bass are good onworms and fair on dark green spinnerbaits, crankbaits, jigs fished around marinas with brush. Channel on live shrimp and croakers.TEXAS fish are slow. landed. and Rat-L-Traps inhydrilla in 10 - 18 feet, CITY: Trout and redfish are fair to good off the Crappie are good on minnowsaround docks and on watermelon/red soft plastics off GRANBURY: Water stained; 0.61' low. Black FORK: Water clear 70-74 degrees; 0.34' low. with brush. Striped bass are good on Sassy dike on live shrimp.Flounder are good on the bass are slow. Striped bass are slow. White Black bass are excellent onwatermelon seed points.Crappie are fair on minnows and blue shorelines on mud minnows. Trout are fair to Shad and live bait,some topwater action tube jigs. bass are good on minnows and silver spoons. Flukes rigged with a split shot in 1-4 feet reported on deep flats adjacent river channels. goodon the Dollar Flats and reefs on red shad Crappie are good on minnows and small blue close tospawning areas. Bass also good on Bluecatfish are excellent on Danny King's and plum plastics. tube jigs. Catfish are fair on shrimp, liver, and Carolina rigs around main lake points in7-10 Punch Bait and cut shad in the back ofcoves PANHANDLE FREEPORT: Trout are fair to good at San Luis stinkbait. feet. Crappie are good on minnows in 4-5 in 4-8 feet. Pass on live shrimp.Sheepshead, gafftop and feet around heavy shorelinereeds and brush. GREENBELT: Water lightly stained; 67 degrees; LBJ: Water stained; 69 degrees; 0.20' low. WEATHERFORD: Water stained; 70 degrees; 22.25' low. Black bass to 6pounds are good whiting are good on fresh dead shrimp. Trout Catfish are excellent on cut bait and prepared andredfish are good in protected waters of Black bass to 8 pounds are very good on Snap bait in 4-8feet. normal pool. Black bass to 6.5pounds are on white/white spinnerbaits, blue back Back tubes, watermelon/red Whacky Sticks, good on crankbaits and soft plastics. Crappie chrome jerkbaits and shad-colored soft jerk- Christmas Bay on live shrimp. GRAPEVINE: Water stained; 70-74 degrees; and Bleeding Shad Rat-L-Traps in 2 - 6 feet. to 2 pounds aregood to excellent on jigs and baits worked along grass lines and tree lines. EAST MATAGORDA: Trout are fair on live 0.15' low. Black bass are good onplastic Striped bass to 26" are fair on 2" Li'l Fishie minnows around the boat docks and in 12- Crappieare good on minnows and jigs. White shrimp, black plastics and topwaterson pro- worms, Rat-L-Traps and spinnerbaits around Shads and white bucktails at night. White 14feet in the fishing barge. Catfish to 20 bass are good on live bait and Rat-L-Traps tected shorelines. Redfish and flounder are rock rip rap andshoreline cover. Crappie are bass are very good on Tiny Traps, Li'l Fishies, pounds are excellent on live baiton the north- along the dam. Smallmouth bass are good on fair in the grass aroundHog Island on gold good on minnows around docks with brush and Spoiler Shads early and late. Crappie are west side. White bass are beginning to school crankbaits and jerkbaits. Walleye are good on spoons and plastics. andreed beds in shallow water. White bass are good on white crappie jigs and live minnows early. Bream aregood in sheltered coves on live bait. Catfish are good on worms andpre- good on TNT Lures around humpsand points MATAGORDA: Trout are fair along the south in 2 - 10 feet. Channel catfish are good on the south side. pared baits. in 15-25 feet. Catfish are good on prepared shoreline of West Bay fromCotton's the minnows and nightcrawlers. Yellow and blue WRIGHT PATMAN: Water clear; 70-74 degrees. MACKENZIE: Water lightly stained; 65 degrees; Middle Grounds on topwaters, red shad and- catfish are good on live bait. baits and fresh shadin 15-20 feet in baited holes. Black bass are good on Texasrigged red shad 64' low. Black bass are fairon shad-colored pumpkinseed/chartreuse Bass Assassins, Trout NAVARRO MILLS: Water murky; 0.10' low. worms and medium running crankbaits in 3- spinnerbaits and crankbaits. Crappie are good JOE POOL: Water stained; 71-74 degrees; Killers and Sand Eels. Redfishare fair in Black bass are fair on spinnerbaits. White 10 feet. Crappiegood on live minnows and on minnows andjigs. White bass and striped 0.19' low. Black bass are goodaround points Oyster Lake and around Shell Island on live bass are fair on spinnerbaits. Crappie are very chartreuse/black jigs at Kelly Creek Marina bass are good on live bait. Smallmouth bass shrimp under apopping cork. good on minnows and green or purple tube near the mouth of coves on Carolina rigged are fair on live bait. Walleye are fair on live soft plastics and Rat-L-Traps. Crappie are andshoreline cover in 2-5 feet. Catfish are PORT O’CONNOR: Trout are good on live shrimp jigs with pink tails. Channel and blue catfish bait and jerkbaits. Catfish aregood on min- good on live minnows and jigs around shore- good on trotlines and rod and reelin 10-15 under a popping cork andelectric blue/char- are slow. Yellow catfish are fair on trotlines nows and chicken liver. linereed beds. White bass are good on TNT feet on live minnows and punch bait in holes treuse and plum/chartreuse Bass Assassins baited with live perch and shad. lures and lead tail spinners in 12-15feet. baited with souredgrain. MEREDITH: Water lightly stained; 64 degrees; and Sand Eelsaround the protected reefs in SOMERVILLE: Water murky; 0.64' high. Black Channel catfish are excellent drift fishing 21' low. Black bass are fair on shad-colored San Antonio Bay. Redfish are good in the bass are slow. Hybrid striper are slow. White fresh shad and preparedcatfish baits. SOUTH spinnerbaits and dark jigs near main lake backlakes on live shrimp, She Dogs and soft bass are excellent on shrimp, pet spoons, and points, rocks and brush. Crappie are good on LAKE O’ THE PINES: Water stained; 70-74 plastics. Rat-L-Traps. Crappie are excellent on minnows AMISTAD: Water clear; 76 degrees. Black bass jigs and minnows. White bass are good on degrees; 0.34' low. Black bass aregood on ROCKPORT: Trout are fair to good around and jigs. Channel and blue catfish are good are good on watermelon seed andwatermelon livebait. Smallmouth bass are fair. Walleye are plastic worms rigged Texas style, shad pattern Traylor Island on croakers. Redfishand a few on juglines baited with live bait in creeks. seed red soft plastic worms, and on Zara good on jigs tipped with minnows suspended medium runningcrankbaits, and topwaters trout are good on live shrimp in protected Yellow catfish to 64 pounds are good on trot- spooks and buzzbaits early and late. Striped in 15 feet and on jerkbaits and crankbaits early and late. Crappie are good on minnows areas on the EstesFlats and in the California lines and juglines baited with live bait in bass are fair on red fin topwaters, slabs, and- along main lake points and dam. Channel cat- in 3-8feet around brush and the edge of lily Hole. Trout are good on the reefs on Copano creeks. striper jigs under birds. White bass are fair on fish are good on cut bait and minnows. pads. White bass are fair on jiggingspoons slabs, striper jigs, andtopwaters under birds. onlive shrimp. STILLHOUSE: Water clear; 72 degrees; 0.14' PALO DURO: Water lightly stained; 58 degrees; and live minnows. Catfish are excellent in 8- Crappie are slow. Channel and blue catfish PORT ARANSAS: Trout and redfish are fair to high. Black bass to 7 pounds are good on 42.25' low. Black bass arefair. Crappie are 15 feet on blood baitand worms in holes bait- are goodon cheesebait from the Hwy. 99 good on the East Flats on liveshrimp and Carolina rigged soft plastic worms and lizards, good on jigs and minnows. Smallmouth bass ed with soured grain. bridge back toward San Pedro in 6 - 10 croakers. Trout and sand trout and gafftop are jitterbugs, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. White are fair. Walleye are fair on jigs and minnows. LAVON: Water stained; 70-73 degrees; 0.36' feet.Yellow catfish are slow. good at the jettyon live shrimp. Red snapper bass are fair on minnows. Smallmouth bass Catfish are good on minnows. low. Black bass are good onplastic worms in BRAUNIG: Water stained; 85 degrees. Black are good offshore. are slow. Crappie are fair on minnows. WEST ALAN HENRY: Water lightly stained; 69 8-12 feet around concrete rip rap and shore- bass to 6 pounds are good on softplastics CORPUS CHRISTI: Sand trout and gafftop are Channel and blue catfish arefair on shrimp, line cover.Crappie are good in shallow water degrees. Black bass to 8 pounds are good on chicken livers, and hot dogs. Yellow catfish along shorelines and structure. Striped bass to good from the piers on shrimp,squid and cut- around reed beds and heavy brush. Whitebass 4 pounds are goodon chicken livers and Tony shad-colored spinnerbaits, white tubes or are slow. black/chartreuse jigsaround the brush. Crappie bait. Trout are fair to good near the Causeway are fair on slabs and lead tail spinners, begin- Accetta spoons. Redfish to 14 pounds are TRAVIS: Water clear; 73 degrees; 0.30' low. are good on minnows and jigs in the brush. on liveshrimp. Trout are fair on topwaters at ning to chase shad alongthe banks during good on live perch and tilapia. Channel cat- Shamrock Cove. Black bass to 4 pounds are goodon smoke early morning. Catfish are good on punch bait fish are excellent on shrimp, liver, and ARROWHEAD: Water muddy in upper end; 68 BAFFIN BAY: Trout are fair to good on the King grubs and pumpkinseed worms in 6 - 22 feet, and freshshad in 4-8 feet around mid-lake stinkbait. Blue catfish are fair on chicken liv- degrees; 4.7' low. Black bass are fair around and on topwaters early. Striped bass are slow. points. ers, stinkbait, and nightcrawlers. Yellow cat- rocky areas and flooded brush on spinner- Ranch shoreline on red/whiteplastics and live White bass to 1 pound are slow on crippled fish are slow. baits. Crappie are fair but improving on min- shrimp. Trout, redfish, black drum and floun- LEWISVILLE: Water stained; 70-74 degrees; der are goodin the Land Cut on live shrimp herringspoons and topwaters in 10 - 30 feet. 0.56' low. Black bass are good onspinnerbaits nows and jigs. White bass are fair on shad- CALAVERAS: Water stained; 86 degrees. Black and croakers. Redfish are good in Crappie to 1 pound are fair on minnowsand and plastic worms around tire break waters imitation baits. Blue catfish are good on cut bass to 5.5 pounds are good onsoft plastic EmmordsHole on live shrimp. pink tube jigs in 12 - 28 feet. Channel and and rock rip rap. Crappie are good on min- shad and prepared baits. blue catfish to 6 pounds arefair on shrimp worms and grubs around reed beds along nows and jigs in 3-6 feet. White bass are shorelines. Striped bassto 6 pounds are good HUBBARD CREEK: Water lightly stained; 67 PORT MANSFIELD: Trout are good in the and nightcrawlers in 20 - 38 feet. Yellow cat- excellenton slabs in 16-24 feet around main degrees; 11.5' low. Black bass aregood on Intracoastal on live shrimp andmullet. fish are slow. on chicken livers, shad, and spoons. Redfish lake points and humps and under thebirds. to 21pounds are excellent on perch and white spinnerbaits with chartreuse trailers and Sheepshead, flounder, black drum, whiting WALTER E. LONG: Water clear; 71 degrees. Catfish are excellent on prepared baits and shrimp on the bottom. Catfish to 4 poundsare black neon or watermelon red soft plastics and croaker are good atthe jetties. Trout and Black bass are good on minnows,crankbaits, fresh shad in 4-10 feet.Channel catfish begin- excellent on nightcrawlers, shad, and liver in around reeds. Crappie are good on minnows black drum are good in the Land Cut on live and spinnerbaits in cattails and reeds. Hybrid ning to move into the rock rip rap to spawn. 10 - 20 feet. and jigs. White bass and hybrid striper are bait.Trout and redfish are fair to good while striper are goodon minnows and soft plastic good on minnows. Catfish are good on min- drifting grass beds near the Saucerand Three MARTIN CREEK: Water clear; 72 degrees mid- CHOKE CANYON: Water stained; 73 degrees; worms. White bass are slow. Crappie are good lake, 78 at hot water discharge;normal pool. nows or cut baits. Island. onminnows. Channel and blue catfish are 0.10' low. Black bass to 8 poundsare good on Black bass are good on Carolina rigs and shal- Texas rigged delicious Reaction Innovations NASWORTHY: Water lightly stained; 66 SOUTH PADRE: Trout are fair to good at Twin good on stinkbait, shrimp, and chickenlivers. low divingcrankbaits in 3-10 feet. Crappie degrees. Black bass are fair. Crappie are good Bars on live shrimp under apopping cork. Yellow catfish are slow. Double Wide Beaversand 1∏oz. alligator jigs are good on minnows in 4-8 feet oversub- with watermelon/green pumpkin 4.25" Sweet on jigs and minnows. Redfish are fair. White Trout are fair to good at Laguna Vista and WHITNEY: Water stained; 1.19' low. Black merged brush and timber. Catfish are excel- Beavertrailers in 8 - 16 feet. White bass are bass and striped bassare good on minnows. Airport Cove onlive shrimp under a popping bass are good on white/redspinnerbaits, lent on trotlines and jug linesin 10 feet baited fair on live minnows, chrome/blackNorman Catfish are good on chicken liver and shad. cork. crankbaits, and Rat-L-Traps. Striped bass are with cut bait and punch bait. Tiny Ticers, and trolling root beer/chartreuse OAK CREEK: Water lightly stained; 66 degrees; PORT ISABEL: Trout, redfish and drum are fair slow. White bassare good on minnows and sil- PALESTINE: Water clear; 70-74 degrees; 0.35 Bomber “A’s” aroundmain lake points in 8 - 23.25' low. Black bass arefair. Crappie are to good at Un-Necessary Islandand Gas-Well ver striper jigs. Crappie are fair on minnows low Black bass are good on redshad worms 12 feet. Crappie are good on pumpkin/char- fair on jigs and minnows. Catfish are fair on Flats on live shrimp under a popping cork and andchartreuse tube jigs. Catfish are good on and Rat-L-Traps in 4-10 feet around points treuse 1.5” YUM Wooly Hawgtails, chartreuse preparedbaits and minnows. No boat ramps red shadplastics. Redfish are fair to good on stinkbait, shrimp, andnightcrawlers. close to deep water. Crappie good on minnows Berkley Blade Runners, and live minnows over open. 4x4 vehicles can unload on the dirtroad live shrimp and Top Dogs at HollyBeach and and jigs in 2-6 feet around brush and stick- brush piles and pilings in 2 - 6 feet. Channel near the dam. Airport Cove. Prepared by J.P. Greeson, Bink Grimes, Kendal Hemphill and Karen Taylor for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. May 27, 2005 Page 17

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SIGNATURE 052705 GAME WARDEN BLOTTER

COVERT WORK ON CATFISH CASE under her that smelled like man told the wardens that he with one that was especially TPW, LOCAL AGENCIES READY FOR ENDS marijuana. Upon further was not really fishing but only worthy of mention. The war- MEMORIAL WEEKEND • The termination of a two- investigation, the warden dis- practicing his casts — with a den, with the assistance anoth- Game wardens will be out in month covert investigation covered that she had a bag of crank bait and stink bait on er game warden and a nuisance force on lakes across the state into the unlawful sale of fish control hunter, removed an Memorial Day weekend in a marijuana just under 2 ounces the lures’ hooks. During the from Lake Fork Reservoir in on her. The woman was arrest- contact with the subject, the alligator that measured 13 feet crackdown on intoxicated boat- Northeast Texas ended May 10 ing. Texas Parks and Wildlife ed; her case is pending. wardens noticed he had con- 1 inch from a small private lake with the arrest of an Emory Chief of Marine Enforcement stricted pupils and was nerv- directly adjacent to his back- man. The man pleaded guilty Alfonso Campos said that about NO FREE RIDE ous. A pat down of the subject yard. In this whopper of a before a Rains County justice 450 wardens will work in rota- • Harrison County game war- revealed a 7.5-inch knife in a story, game wardens estimated tion over the holiday weekend, of the peace to charges of sell- dens Jarrod Bryant and Derek shoulder holster under his the gator probably weighed partnering with many local law ing and offering to sell protect- Nalls pulled an old boat out of arm, underneath his shirt. more than 1,000 pounds. enforcement groups to enforce ed game and finfish. The Caddo Lake that was half- Further search revealed two BWI laws on busy lakes such as charges alleged that he sold sunken in front of the state pipes, one with methamphet- BUT THE FISHING’S LOUSY IN IRAQ Travis, Texoma, Conroe and flathead, blue and channel park boat ramp back in amine and the other with • An Angelina County game catfish taken from Lake Fork to Possum Kingdom. On Lake February. The registration marijuana, and one large bag warden responded to a crimi- covert investigators on three Travis, the Austin Police numbers had been painted of marijuana. Consent to nal trespass call involving sev- separate occasions. Prior to Department will have their over, but the original numbers search the vehicle revealed a eral people fishing without the arrest, the man displayed Breath Analysis Test Mobile unit, could still be made out. In late pistol-grip pump 12-gauge consent. One suspect was or “Bat Mobile,” on hand to and offered to sell 800 pounds April Bryant tracked down the shotgun with a 20-inch barrel, arrested after authorities assist in processing suspected of catfish being held in wire found out he was AWOL from registered owner, who sold the more than 150 rounds of slugs, drunken boaters. cages tied to piers near his the Marines. An investigation boat about a year ago to a man numerous articles of drug Marine safety is the concern. waterfront residence. After the continues. Campos said that in 2004 there arrest, game wardens released who never paid him. Bryant paraphernalia and another were 209 reported boating acci- twenty flathead catfish, the had the original owner con- bag of marijuana. About 50 HUNTING PARTY SHUT DOWN tact the buyer, who stated he dents, 155 of which resulted in largest weighing 65 pounds, as rounds of ammunition were in • A Hunt County game warden injuries and 35 that resulted in well as 49 channel and blue burned the boat on private bandolier-type shell holders and a college intern were fatalities. The numbers were catfish. The man’s fines total property. After a short inter- and the rest in easy-access patrolling when they noticed similar for 2003. He said that $6,750. view with Bryant, the buyer shell holders. The man was a truck on a county road means about 90 percent of boat- admitted to sinking the boat arrested on numerous charges, known for road hunting. They ing accidents result in an injury CUFF ‘EM in Caddo Lake. The subject and another man was cited for followed the truck and or fatality. • Bell County game wardens was fined $400 for littering, possession of drug parapher- watched the occupants spot- “If you’re going to be in an were patrolling the Lampasas and he made arrangements to nalia and no fishing license. lighting a field from the road. [boating] accident,” Campos River above Lake Stillhouse pay the original owner for the The cases are pending. said, “the likelihood is very high When the vehicle began driv- recently when they came boat. that you’re going to be injured or ing with its lights off, the war- upon a man and woman sit- BRAZORIA WARDEN GETS ‘GATOR AID killed. Be aware that game war- den stopped the truck. One ting on the bank with fishing JUST PRACTICING — HONEST • Brazoria County game war- dens will be enforcing the laws.” man exited the truck and had • Tarrant County game wardens dens have been extremely busy Penalties for BWI are the same poles. They told the wardens an empty holster on his belt. made contact with three indi- responding to nuisance alliga- as for driving while intoxicated, that they were not fishing, but The warden asked where his and can mean up to 180 days in the two were nervous. When viduals fishing from a dock on tors for the past few weeks. pistol was, and the man said it jail, a fine up to $2,000, or both. the woman stood up, the offi- Lake Arlington. None of the One game warden didn’t have was in the front seat of his cers noted a rolled cigarette men had a fishing license. One to travel far to get involved Continued on page 18 Page 18 May 27, 2005

Continued from page 17 Continued from page 10 Game Warden Blotter Kayaking truck. The warden found a HONEST AT THE END Terns and laughing gulls were said he caught a 7-foot alligator loaded .45-caliber pistol. • Houston County Game CASTERS NET BUCKET OF TROUBLE diving on 2-inch Menhaden. gar; another said he caught a While searching the truck, Warden Eddie Lehr received a • A Montgomery County game Schools of trout surrounded the dogfish. At last, one sheepish the warden found metham- call from a local man confess- warden got a call about illegal baitfish, so it didn’t take long for angler ‘fessed up to catching a 2- phetamines, marijuana, para- ing to illegally taking bucks at fishing activity on Lake Thomas to hook up to a 16-inch- inch menhaden. phernalia, and an open con- the end of 2004-2005 hunting Conroe. While on the way, the er. The birds kept diving, and the tainer of beer. The man was season. Warden Lehr charged warden came across the per- anglers kept casting but the fish WINNERS BOX: arrested and taken to county the man with untagged deer, son who made the complaint must have been full – they never jail. and four illegal bucks were dis- and was able to enter the area Slam: took another lure. The paddlers posed of. undetected. The four men 1st - Filip Spencer - 62 1/2” moved back across the channel CRABBER PINCHED were using a cast net. When 2nd - Justin Rascoe - 57 3/4” again as motorboats screamed • Two Harris County game war- SUSPICIONS WERE WARRANTED the game warden confronted Team Slam: around the bay. 1st - Wilderness Systems 66” dens caught a commercial • A game warden was checking the men, they claimed to have As the morning gave way to 2nd - TKF - 64” crabber without a commercial fishing licenses on the had no luck netting bait. The noon, the kayakers kept looking 3rd - Karankawa - 63 1/4” crabbing license last month. Canyon Lakes in Lubbock men did not know the game for a flounder bite. But the fish Flounder: The same crabber had been County when he came across warden had been watching just weren’t hungry – too many 1st - William Grimsinger - 18 1/2” issued a citation from one of three people fishing without them for a while and knew 2nd - Ryan Evans - 18 1/4” baitfish around. By this time, the wardens in January. This licenses. One had already been they had been taking fish with 3rd - John Ward - 18 1/8” the anglers were no doubt won- time he was given a ride to the filed on a year earlier by the the cast net and had a bucket Red: dering if they’d picked the right Galveston County Jail. Later same warden at the same loca- hidden in the woods. The 1st - Jason Sanitz - 28” fishing spots and if they were the same day the wardens tion for fishing without a game warden retrieved the 2nd - Mike Herold - 27 1/2” doing well enough for a win. caught two oyster boats with license. All subjects had coun- bucket that contained five 3rd - Scott Null - 27” By 4 p.m. the fishermen gath- Trout: under-sized oysters. Fifty-two ty warrants, and one subject black bass, two perch and one ered back under the tent, telling 1st - Phillip Perry - 22 1/8” sacks of oysters were returned had felony warrants. They tilapia (one bass was about 7 stories and eating barbecue to 2nd - Spencer Pearson - 22” to the reef. The cases are pend- were placed under arrest and pounds). Citations were while away the time. One guy 3rd - Shane Meche - 21 7/8” ing. taken to Lubbock County Jail. issued. CROSSWORD SOLUTION Crossword puzzle solution from page 14.

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www.slowrideguide.com May 27, 2005 Page 19 OUTDOOR DATEBOOK

There will be a suite for Safari Club Sandlin. Saturday registration is at 5 JUNE 4: 13th Annual Kids’ Fish and with dinner, a raffle and fun. For more members. Call Dallas Safari Club at a.m. Take-off and weigh-in are at Titus Play Day, Purtis Creek State Park. We’ll information, call Richard Harrison at HAVE AN EVENT (972) 980-9800. County Park. Entry fee and have free fishing, door prizes, fishing (903) 984-6507 or Alan Amos at membership fee are required. For more trophies, face painting, dunking booth, JUNE 2: Ducks Unlimited First Houston (903) 238-7322 or e-mail TO PUBLICIZE? information, call Chad Cranford at music, climbing wall, paddle boat Area Duck Hunters’ Bash, Houston [email protected]. (870) 898-6296. races and many games. For ages 1-16, E-mail it to Farm and Ranch Club, Houston. TXDU from 8 a.m.-noon. Call (903) 425- JUNE 10: Ducks Unlimited 3rd Annual [email protected]. & Academy Sports & Outdoors to host JUNE 4: 13th Annual Kid Fishing 2332. Crockett Dinner, Lovelady Community Events must be open to the public. gathering for those with the summer Tournament, Lake Arrowhead State Center (Old Lovelady Gym), Lovelady. duck hunting blues. The Duck Hunters’ Park. Prizes, donated by local JUNE 4: Junior Angler Jamboree, Dinner, a big raffle and Duck Dice. For Bash will start at 6 p.m. at the businesses, awarded in three age Sabine Pass Battleground State Park MAY 28: Ducks Unlimited Dallas NSCA more information, contact Kirk Brenner Houston Farm & Ranch Club. Cost of groups: 3-6, 7-12 and 13-16. A and Historic Site. Young anglers can Registered Shoot, Elm Fork Shooting at (936) 544-9546 or (936) 544 the event is $30 in advance and $35 limited number of fishing poles and learn the basics of fishing, fish Park, Dallas. The event is a clay shoot. 3833 or e-mail kbrenner@safe-t- the day of the event; kids 12 and bait available. Adults may assist, but identification, regulations, basic tackle Targets will be NSCA registered. lighting.com. under free. Contact Tim Soderquist at not catch fish for kids. Meet at the and more. Participants who complete Contact Liz Foster at (214) 824-5285 (281) 259-9638, or e-mail all stations receive a certificate JUNE 10: Ducks Unlimited or e-mail [email protected]. Group Dining Hall, from 2-4 p.m. Call [email protected]. (940) 528-2211. proclaiming them an official TPW Dayton/Liberty Dinner, Elks Lodge, “Junior Angler.” For children ages 6-12 MAY 28: Wild Boar Hunt, Fennessey JUNE 2: National Wild turkey Federation Liberty. Contact Mark Bennett at (281) JUNE 4: Annual Rough Fish Contest, (must be able to read). 9 a.m.-noon. Ranch. Hunters are placed in African- Bois D’Ark Chapter Texas Hunting 425-3775 or (936) 334-4505 or e- style brush blinds at daylight to hunt Lake Arrowhead State Park. Prizes, Call (409) 971-2559. mail [email protected]. Heritage Banquet, Bonham Life Center, donated by local businesses, will be Russian boar on a private 4,000-acre Bonham. Contact Eddie Hines at (903) JUNE 4: Kids’ Fishing Day, Tyler State ranch. Daylight-dark; fees $150 Texas awarded for the biggest fish caught in JUNE 10: Media Bass 2005 Team Trails 583-1675. this event. For ages 17 and older; sign- Park. Come join us for a day of fishing CenTex Teams Tournament, Stillhouse State Park Pass members, $160 non- fun. Prizes will be awarded for the JUNE 3: Range and Wildlife Seminar, up at the Group Dining Hall; 8:30 a.m.- Hollow Reservoir. Saturday registration members; reservations required. Call largest fish, smallest fish, most Kerr Wildlife Management Area. A free 4:30 p.m.; sign-up fee $2 per person, is 5 a.m. Take-off and weigh-in are at (361) 529-6600. unusual catch and most fish. We will seminar on all the facets of white- with proceeds going to our Lone Star West Ramp. Entry fee and membership have fish painting, a wildlife table, a MAY 31: National Wild Turkey tailed deer management will be Legacy Endowment. For more fee are required. Call Jimmy Bennett at climbing wall, a casting contest and Federation Cottonwood Creek Chapter presented. Subjects include deer information, call (940) 528-2211. (254) 774-9984. door prizes. The contests are for kids Texas Hunting Heritage Banquet, nutrition, genetics, population control, JUNE 4: Annual Kids’ Fishing 16 and younger, but this is an event JUNE 11: Media Bass 2005 Team Trails Backwoods Trap, Aubrey. For more prescribed burning and rotational Tournament, Lake Whitney State Park. for the entire family. 9 a.m.-noon. Call Central Teams Tournament, Richland information contact Dean Castillo at grazing. The seminar stresses an For kids ages 4-12. Prizes awarded at (903) 597-5338. (972) 562-9822. ecological approach to deer Chambers Reservoir. Saturday end of tournament, from 10 a.m.-1 registration is at 5 a.m. Take-off and JUNE 1-10: Bassmaster Elite 50 management. 1:30-5:30 p.m.; JUNE 4: Ducks Unlimited SCDU Huxley p.m. Call (254) 694-3793. weigh-in are at Oak Cove Marina. Entry Tournament, Lewisville Lake. The top reservations available but not required. Fun Night, Robinson Lodge, Huxley. fee and membership fee are required. professional bass anglers will take to Call (830) 238-4483. JUNE 4: Media Bass 2005 Team Trails Dinner with games and raffles. Contact Mark Robinson at (936) 368-2211 or Call Gordon Stauffer at (972) 222- the waters of Lewisville Lake this JUNE 4: Kids’ Fishing Day, Cooper Lake Big ‘D’ Teams Tournament, Lake Clint Tanner at (936) 488-0985 or e- 2207. summer as the Bassmaster Elite 50 State Park/Sulphur Unit. Bring your Tawakoni. Saturday registration 5 a.m., mail [email protected]. tournament series makes its only stop fishing equipment and join in the fun take-off and weigh-in are at Lake JUNE 10-11: Coastal Conservation in Texas. The event is being on Free Fishing Day. There will be Tawakoni State Park. Entry fee and JUNE 4: Ducks Unlimited Brazoria Association Inter-Chapter Challenge, coordinated locally by the Lewisville drawings for prizes. Open to children membership fee are required. Call County Golf Tournament, Lake Jackson. Port Aransas Civic Center, Port Visitors Bureau and the City of 12 and under, from 9-11 a.m. Call Eldon Stout at (972) 222-3751. For more information contact Lance Aransas. 5-9 p.m. Contact Robby Byers Lewisville. Tournament highlights will (903) 395-3100 or (903) 945-5256. JUNE 4: 15th Annual Kids’ Fish Flop Efird at (832) 595-0663 or e-mail or John Blaha at (800) 626-4222. be broadcast June 11, from 10-11 [email protected]. a.m., and again June 18, from 10 to JUNE 4: Kids’ Fishing Derby, Tournament, Martin Dies, Jr. State JUNE 11-12: Slither Under the Moon 11 a.m., on ESPN2. The Bassmaster Eisenhower State Park. Bring your Park. This catch-and-release contest is JUNE 4-12: National Fishing Week, Night Race, Copper Breaks State Park. Elite 50 Tournament will be based at fishing pole and fish the waters of Lake open to kids 16 and younger. Kids will Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, Adventure racing, sponsored by the city’s Lewisville Lake Park, with Texoma and try to catch another world- be placed into three age categories, Athens. Youths under age 17 will be Rattlesnake Racing, in the ruggedly boat launches at 10 a.m. each day record catfish from the deep blue with prizes awarded in each category. admitted free all week. Fishing is beautiful park trail system. This race from Sneaky Pete’s Marina and weigh- waters of the lake. Prizes will be Tournament desk located behind the included with admission to TFFC for all includes hiking, biking, kayaking and ins each evening at the park. The awarded to youths 18 and under for dining hall in the Walnut Ridge Unit. 8 visitors regardless of age, all mapping in this extreme sport. Call for Bassmaster Outdoor Expo will be held the largest stringer of five fish and for a.m.-noon. Call (409) 384-5231. equipment is furnished and no fishing times; fees, in addition to registration at Lake Park on Friday and Saturday the smallest fish caught as well as JUNE 4: Media Bass 2005 Team Trails license is needed. Call (903) 676- fee, free Texas State Parks Pass afternoons. A Western-style country fair numerous fun prizes. Free for 2277. Cowtown Teams Tournament, Lake members, $2 non-members, $1 senior will be held from noon to 8 p.m. on participants; entrance fee waived for Granbury. Saturday registration is at 5 JUNE 6: Ducks Unlimited Kilgore citizens, free for children 12 and Saturday, June 4. Free admission. participants; event from 8 a.m.- noon. a.m. Take-off and weigh-in are at Dinner, McKay’s Ranch House under; registration required to Call (903) 465-1956. JUNE 2: Dallas Safari Club Frisco Rough Creek. Entry fee and Restaurant, Kilgore. This is a charter participate at RoughRiders Baseball Game, Dr JUNE 4: Media Bass 2005 Team Trails membership fee are required. Call Mike event hosted by the Kilgore committee. www.rattlesnakeracing.com. (940) Pepper/Seven Up Ballpark, Frisco. ArkaTex Teams Tournament, Lake Bob Petrovic at (817) 946-8760. It will be a family-oriented evening 839-4331. HEROES’ CORNER

Want to share your great hunting or fishing adventure with the Lone Star Outdoor News family? E-mail your photo, phone and caption information to [email protected], or mail to: Heroes’ Corner, Lone Star Outdoor News, 9304 Forest Lane, Suite 114 South, Dallas, TX, 75243. FEATURED HERO PHILIP BUKOWSKI of San Antonio and Joey Psencik of Seguin were fishing a 40-acre lake on Bukowski’s ranch in Karnes County when a 72-pound, 44-inch blue catfish took the bait on his 12-pound-test line. The fish begin to drag the anglers’ boat around the lake as they tried to bring it in, and at one point, Psenick told Bukowski to let the fish go before it pulled them into the water, but Bukowski told him that he didn’t have the fish – the fish had him. That MATTHEW FAVRE took his first deer Oct. 16, 2004, at Riverview Farm near Lake Creek, Texas. Matthew was 6 years old when he took the spike buck, and he was proved to be the case when Bukowski finally accompanied by his father, Steve Favre, who supervised the hunt. boated the cat by sticking his hand in the fish’s mouth and hauling him in, and then found the fish wouldn’t release his hand.

LIZ FOSTER (left) bagged this gobbler April 17 on the Seven Bar Ranch near Archer City with a bow and arrow from 15 yards away. Although she says the turkey is ordinary – a 2-year- MYRA SPURGIN landed this lunker old gobbler with a March 24 at Lake Athens. The bass 7-inch beard and weighed just under 8 pounds and RON LINSCOME from Boerne, Texas with a redfish that no spurs – Foster is TREY WEBB caught this largemouth May 2 was taken off a 4-feet-deep weighed 27 pounds. He was fishing at Hackberry understandably on Lake Bastrop at Lake Bastrop State spawning bed on spinning tackle Rod & Gun Club, Hackberry, Louisiana. proud of the shot. Park using 6-weight fly tackle. with 10-pound-test line. Prices good through June 4, 2005.

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