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TEN CENTS SEPTEMBER, 1937 OFFICIAL STATE SEPTEMBER, 1937 PUBLICATION ^ANGLER? Vol. 6—No. 9

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PUBLISHED MONTHLY COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA by the BOARD OF FISH COMMISSIONERS PENNSYLVANIA BOARD OF FISH ^™*K COMMISSIONERS mm

1 i 1 CHARLES A. FRENCH Ten cents a copy — 50 cents a year Commissioner of Fisheries MEMBERS OF BOARD 1 i 1 CHARLES A. FRENCH, Chairman Ellwood City ALEX P. SWEIGART, Editor MILTON L. PEEK South Office Bldg., Harrisburg, Pa. HARRY E. WEBER Philipsburg SAMUEL J. TRUSCOTT Dalton FRANK J. PENTRACK Johnstown NOTE Subscriptions to the PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER EDGAR W. NICHOLSON should be addressed to the Editor. Submit fee either Philadelphia by check or money order payable to the Common­ KENNETH A. REID wealth of Pennsylvania. Stamps not acceptable. Connellsville Individuals sending cash do so at their own risk. FRED McKEAN New Kensington H. R. STACKHOUSE Secretary to Board PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER welcomes contribu­ tions and photos of catches from its readers. Proper credit will be given to contributors. All contributions returned if accompanied by first C. R. BULLER class postage. Chief Fish Culturist, Bellefonte

<&*= —&a# IMPORTANT—The Editor should be notified immediately of change in subscriber's address Please give both old and new addresses Permission to reprint will be granted provided proper credit notice is given THE FRONT COVER Fred Everett, noted fish artist, has Vol. 6 No. 9 A depicted a fishing scene in which the fly rod plays a vital role for the cover SEPTEMBER, 1937 <^ i&fc \ this month. ^ANGLER/ EDITORIAL

BETTER POLLUTION CONTROL

N THIS issue of the ANGLER, Judge Grover C. Ladner, whose cham­ I pionship of pollution control has brought him outstanding recognition not only in the nation but abroad, explains in a forceful article, just how the Administration's new Pure Streams Bill will work. I feel that it is per­ haps appropriate for me to write concerning its background and objectives. One glance at the record is sufficient to convince any civic-minded citizen of the vital need for control of pollution as it will be exerted under this legislation. Gifted with more than 100,000 miles of waterways, Penn­ sylvania has sustained, during the past 100 years, a constant shrinkage in mileage of her clean streams. At the present time, 80,000 miles of our waterways is polluted in varying degrees. A great deal of this mileage is so vilely polluted that virtually no life can exist in it. The amazing part of all this stern, bitter battle for the return to the people of Pennsylvania of some part, at least, of their God-given gift of clean water was the comparatively minor opposition of even polluters' lobbies. Apparently the handwriting on the wall was plain to be read; apparently the utter need for control of this type of a growing evil was so evident, that the polluters' interests realized how vital was this issue. Certainly, the administration's anti-pollution bill passed its way through Senate and House with a minimum of opposition. I am proud indeed that in the vanguard of this great liberal movement to restore our waterways to the people, were a solid, united block of fishermen. No man is in a better position to realize the wanton pilfering to which our streams have been subjected than is the angler, who, for relaxation and sport, spends his time along our waterways. But this great victory has been achieved, and I want to stress this fact, by the great and growing force that we know as public opinion. In the years to come, I feel that those who lent pollution control their united support must derive real satisfaction from the acclaim that will be theirs from future generations. The initial victory for clean streams has been won. Let us now enter whole-heartedly into the campaign to carry through the provisions of this great legislation for the people.

C. A. FRENCH Commissioner of Fisheries PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER BATTLING BASS WITH THE FLY-ROD By MYRON W. SHOEMAKER

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HERE are still three months facing The first cost of the fly fisherman's equip­ lure and is bound to catch fish with it. T the bass fisherman, before the curtain ment is the greatest but in the long run Surface lures are exceptionally good for finally falls, for successful fly fishing for is the cheapest. Lures that cost from 20 large mouth bass and the larger the lures the king of fresh water fish—the small to 50 cents each are good for hundreds of the better the bass seem to like them. The mouth bass. strikes if they are well tied and taken care small mouth will readily take the surface The thrill that comes with the savage of while live bait is completely lost after or wet lure and is inclined to prefer smaller strike of the fighting bass, whether hooked one savage strike. The cost of one good bait lures than its cousin the largemouth. or not, is second to none and the fisherman pail and the amount of gasoline used in The line is an important item and should who uses flies knows what this is all about. starting and stopping to change water on be heavy enough to fit the rod. For a bass To those who do not use the artificial lures live bait would soon give any fisherman a rod it should not be lighter than size D there is much in store for them when, and complete set of flies that would last over a if a level line or HDH for double tapered. if, they start fly fishing. Even though the season or two and more if he fished but a If a more expensive line is desired than the bass is not hooked there remains the satis­ few times. special bug line, tapered lines will add faction of knowing that he remains for an­ The selection of the lures depends on the much pleasure to casting and will be much other strike later in the day or on the next type of fishing desired. If for surface, or easier to cast. In any event do not let any­ fishing expedition. If he was a big one then dry fly fishing the lures should be of the one sell you a line that is used for casting the trip is more fascinating in the expec­ floating type that will not sink. If for fish­ a plug bait. It is entirely too light and flies tation of rising the big fellow and having ing under the surface then a wet fly should can not be successfully cast with a light line. the battle that is bound to follow when he be used. These may be purchased in either The rod should be at least 5 ounces and is hooked. This is really what makes fishing a streamer fly or the common wet fly and preferably from 6 to 7 ounces if used in worth while and so fascinating with arti­ a small spinner may be used along with waters containing large fish. A recent ex­ ficial lures. them if desired. Surface lures made of deer ample of a beginner purchasing a light trout The increase of fly fishermen the past hair entirely will be more successful than rod of very cheap material on the dealer's year has placed a number of them at a those made of cork or wood body, the recommendation has already discouraged loss to know just how to proceed or what reason being that bass can easily detect one potential fly fisherman. Consult some­ to use or purchase for successful fishing. the foreign substance of wood and cork one in your community who knows some­ There are countless numbers of flies for much quicker than they can that of the thing about rods and you will be well paid. all kinds of color, size and shape. Most any softer deer hair. Many surface lures are Keep away from the casting reels for use of them will catch bass at some time or combinations of deer hair and feathers or on a fly rod. They are too long and heavy another. There are all kinds of lines but feathers and cork, etc. There are all kinds and will only cause inconvenience. A light only a few for fly fishing purposes and the of color combinations and solid colors. As weight reel just a little heavier than the dealer who !has his money tied up in lines to color it is entirely a matter of what the rod is all that is necessary. may not be so interested in your welfare fisherman desires. The same is true of the Leaders should not be too heavy as they as he is in making sales of his stock. If the size or type of fly or bug. It is however, are only cumbersome if too heavy. Any­ improper line is purchased it will mean a true that bass sometimes are very selective thing from 8 to 15 pound test will handle discouraged fisherman. The same is true of and will be inclined to have some particular any bass swimming if care is used in rods and if the proper type of rod is not color, shape or size but this is a matter the handling the fish. Of course, if you expect purchased or already possessed the fisher­ fisherman will have to solve for himself to railroad your big bass then extra heavy man soon becomes discouraged. Reels and as he studies fishing conditions. Confidence leaders should be purchased. As to the leaders play a less important part but they in a lure is as good a bet as anything be­ length, the suggestion would be from three should be suitable for the occasion. cause the fisherman sticks to that particular to six feet. PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 3

Before going into methods of successful otherwise not be attracted to the surface the deeper water until October arrives. Just fishing with flies it may be well to mention lure. To make your fishing easier and more because water is very swift and shallow some of the many theories commonly heard successful you should by all means grease do not be mistaken in thinking that there among fishermen which leave the begin­ the line and leader when using surface are no bass there. It may be just the place ner's mind in a state of confusion. The best lures. This will insure the line and leader they are feeding. If not there try water part these theories play is to furnish topic remaining on the surface of the water and a little deeper. Sometimes it may be neces­ for discussion and many of them keep fish­ will make it much easier to pick up when sary to fish a little deeper and a small split ermen from the streams until conditions ready to make another cast. A line that is shot will sink the lure low enough to rise meet their particular theory. not greased will sink and interfere with a a bass that may not feel like striking to a No one knows just when or what fish are clean pick up. It will also pull the lure un­ lure higher up in the water. Fish the shore going to bite. And woe be unto the streams der the water and make more false casts lines where there is plenty of cover. Never of Pennsylvania or any other state if any­ necessary to dry out the fly properly to pass up the swirl around a big rock one ever succeeds in discovering just when insure its floating properly. A line that whether sticking out of the water or sub­ merged. It is far from necessary to load up with a good many patterns of flies. If you have several flies of the same pattern and dif­ ferent sizes, and not more than two sizes, and not more than a half dozen patterns as to color and shape you should be very well equipped with enough flies to insure some success. By all means keep away from the wet flies with the gut attached unless they are eyed flies. As soon as the gut becomes wet it softens and will remain so The Hair Mouse—A Mighty Effective Fly Rod Lure for some time after being put away for the next fishing trip. It does not take very long and what fish are going to bite. There sinks when using surface lures will also for rust to form from the hook and this would immediately follow an army of fisher­ interfere with making the strike when a fish will assist in rotting the gut and cause a men to the streams, lakes and ponds at rises to the lure. complete loss of the fly. This can not hap­ that particular period that would deplete pen with eyed flies which can easily be Surface lures may be used by fishing fastened to the leader. the waters in a short time. directly up stream or across the current There are the theories of the dark and and allowing them to float naturally with Leaders may be purchased already as­ light moon; the dark and light flies for the current or they may be given motion sembled or in small coils or in short lengths dark and light days; the signs must be just by a slight flick of the rod. This sometimes so you can tie your own. The better grade right for many who consult the well known will rise bass when other methods fail. If of gut comes in short lengths tied in small almanac; the rising and falling of the tides for largemouthed bass, by all means cast bundles. The synthetic gut comes in small have their converts as well as many other the fly on the water and let it remain mo­ coils and if properly used will last a long theories. To avoid the believers in any of tionless for a minute or so and sometimes time. these theories climbing up my back it may longer then give it a little motion with the If your equipment is of a good quality be well to state that the fisherman who tip of the rod and let it remain motionless there should be no need of replacing the waits for conditions to be exactly right will again. Sometimes the largemouth likes to rod, line or reel for a long time to come. miss a lot of darned good fishing. And fish­ study the situation a little before deciding But if the rod is subjected to serious abuse ing should be done for the sake of fishing to investigate. At other times a series of such as storing it away while wet; stand­ and the sport and recreation it affords in short continuous jerks will rise a large- ing out overnight in the damp air, or laying place of making a kill for material gain. mouth as well as the smallmouth. around camp in the rain, you can be ex­ pected to purchase a new rod every year. A few fish caught and retained for food will When fishing the wet fly it should be The fisherman who reels a bass up to protect fishing for all fishermen. allowed to sink and flow with the current or it may be slowly retrieved across or against the current after it had run the limit of the line. Many times short jerks will attract fish that would not look at the lure fished any other way. If any added attraction is desired then a small spinner may be used by attaching the fly to the spinner and fishing it in the same manner as the wet fly. Sometimes, in fast water, the fly and spinner may remain motionless below you while the force of the current Winged Float-a-Bug Spent Wing Buger turns the spinner. Many a bass will strike while the fly and spinner are in this within three or four feet of the tip of the position. rod then lifting it over into the boat will Bass are not fish that confine themselves soon be in serious difficulty with a set in When bass are chasing minnows to the to one particular zone in the water for the tip or a broken tip by a quick flop of shore the fly and spinner is very effective. feeding. They may be found feeding on the a good sized bass. Rods are made for hard It also will produce results when bass are surface or near the bottom. This is partic­ use if properly cared for and will last a leaping out of the water. And in the ma­ ularly true of the smallmouthed bass. When good many years. jority of cases a jumping bass will hit bass are rising to the surface for food the Keep your equipment in good condition most any lure presented. surface lures should be used. It is possible, and the only worry you will have will be however, to rise bass to the surface when Smallmouthed bass are usually found in if your wife wants a new hat after you they are not feeding on the surface. Con­ shallow and swift water during the warm have bought some new lure that has just stant casting will rise many bass that would months and it is well to keep away from come out. 4 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER PENNSYLVANIA'S NEW PURE STREAMS LAW By JUDGE GROVER C. LADNER Former Deputy Attorney General of Pennsylvania, who drafted the Bill, which becomes effective September I, 1937

Governor Earle signs the new Pure Streams Law. Standing, left to right, Judge Ladner; Representative Mahlon LaRue, sponsor of the Bill; Secretary of Health Edith MacBride-Dexter; Phil Piatt, of the Sanitary Water Board; Dr. James F. Bogardus, Secretary of Forests and Waters, and Charles A. French, Commissioner of Fisheries.

HE late Justice Holmes in the case of ARTICLE III relates to industrial sons as used in the Act includes individuals, New Jersey vs. New York et al, 283 wastes. partnerships and corporations. TU. S. 336 wisely said, "A river is not a ARTICLE IV relates to petty pollu­ Section 3 of this article lays down the mere amenity; it is a treasure. It offers a tions. broad public policy and reenacts the com­ necessity of life that must be rationed ARTICLE V relates to protection of mon law principle that the discharge of among those who have power over it." water supply. sewage and industrial wastes, which is or When Pennsylvania's great liberal Gover­ ARTICLE VI relates to Procedure. may become inimical to public health, or nor, George H. Earle, signed the Pure ARTICLE VII defines the general to animal or aquatic life, or to the use of Streams Bill he not only kept his election scope and purpose of water for domestic, industrial or recrea­ pledge, but placed the Keystone State in the Bill. tional purposes, is not a natural or rea­ the front rank of American States whose The following definitions will be helpful sonable use of water; that it is against pub­ citizens are awakening to the truth of lic policy and a public nuisance. Judge Holmes' statement. in understanding the Act: Board means Sanitary Water Board.* By this declaration the pretense of the Pennsylvania's new Pure Stream Law The word "establishment" includes mill, polluters and their apologists that the may well serve as a model for pollution factory, tannery, paper and pulp mills, oil waters of the State should be regarded pri­ abatement legislation throughout the Na­ wells, boats, garages, oil refineries, mine, marily as the natural drainage channels tion. It represents fifteen years of tireless quarry and every industry or plant or for filth of cities and poisons of industry efforts of the Conservationists who fought works, in the operation of which industrial is decisively repudiated. There is substi­ on against great odds to final victory. wastes are produced. tuted the more wholesome doctrine that the public waters are primarily for the use of Providence seems to work in devious ways. "Industrial waste" means any liquid, gas the whole people and not as a cheap method The Pure Streams Law as enacted in Penn­ or solid substance, not sewage, resulting of waste disposal. sylvania is the better because of the long from any manufacturing or industry. fight against it. Had the polluters and their "Sewage" is defined as any substance Article II (Sewage) apologists permitted its passage in the form that contains any waste product or excre- This article deals with sewage. It virtu­ first proposed fifteen years ago, it might mentitious or other discharges from bodies ally reenacts the "Purity of Waters Act have been ineffective either because of the of human beings and animals. (Sewage Act of 1905)" substituting, how­ loopholes not then apparent, or because of "Pollution" is defined as any substance ever, for the per diem penalty of $50.00 lack of public opinion to support it. The which renders unclean the waters of the against municipalities failing to obey the State so as to be inimical to human, animal decrees of the Board the right to compel very bitterness, of the opposition of the pol­ obedience by mandamus. luters thus unwittingly served the cause. or aquatic life, or to the use of water for domestic consumption, industrial or recre­ Section 201 of this article declares dis­ Analysis of the Act ational use. For the sake of brevity, in this charge of sewage into the waters of the The Act is composed of seven Articles: article such discharges will herein be re­ Commonwealth to be unlawful. ARTICLE I declares the public pol­ ferred to as "polluting discharges." Per- Section 202 requires any municipality or person (person includes corporation, etc.) icy and contains defini­ •This Board is composed of the Secretary of Health (Chairman), Secretary of Forests to discontinue sewage discharge, upon or­ tions of the terms used and Waters, Commissioner of Fisheries and der of the Board when the Board finds that in the Act. three appointees of the Governor. Its powers and duties are provided for in the Adminis­ such discharge is or may become inimical ARTICLE II relates to sewage. trative Code of Pennsylvania. to public health, animal, aquatic life, or use PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 5

of water for domestic, industrial consump­ tion, or recreation. Discharge may however be permitted into streams impregnated with acid mine drainage, if such discharge does not create a condition inimical to public in­ terest. When, therefore, acid mine drain­ age, which is now said to act as a germicide is no longer discharged into a stream, either because of the abandonment of a mine, or discovery of means to purify such drainage, or if the public interest other­ wise requires it, the Board may require such sewage discharge to be abated. Section 203 provides for the procedure. It requires the Board to make due investiga­ tion; grant an opportunity to be heard and give notice in writing, and fixing a time within which the order to discontinue sew­ age discharge shall be complied with, not to exceed one (1) year. The discharge after the time fixed by the Board is declared to be a nuisance and abatable as such. Section 204 imposes on persons who re­ fuse to obey such order of the Board a penalty from $25.00 to $100.00 a day, fine to be imposed by a summary proceedings, and $10.00 a day for each day's continu­ ance. In default of payment of fine, the person, if an individual, or the officers of the corporation may be imprisoned one day for each dollar of fine. Section 205 requires the municipalities to file from time to time, on demand of the Board, reports of its sewage systems in the form required. Failure to do so makes dis­ charge through its system a nuisance and abatable as such. Section 206 covers procedure for obtain­ ing sewage discharge permits. This section is intended to cover cases where partial treatment of sewage may be sufficient un­ der all circumstances of the case, including the size, use, flow and character of the stream; also cases where temporary dis­ charges of untreated sewage may be found not harmful as e. g. in acid streams. The Board must first find, however, as a fact that the discharge is not injurious to public health or to animal or aquatic life or use for domestic or industrial consumption or recreation. But a finding that such dis­ charge is not a nuisance under this Act is not conclusive because, if it be a nuisance in fact, a court of competent jurisdiction may enjoin it as such despite the grant of a permit. The public is therefore fully pro­ tected. Section 207 provides for approval of plans and relevant data. Section 208 makes these permits subject to revocation or modification when public Fish killed by pollution interest demands, but only after an inves­ tigation and opportunity of all known to be gation of the municipality pursuant to gen­ Section 211 permits a number of munici­ eral law governing the issuance of such palities to combine in the erection of a com­ interested to be heard. bonds. If the amount of the bonds required mon sewage treatment works and pay for Section 209. Failure to discontinue after would raise the obligation to a sum in ex­ same by non debt revenue bonds to be se­ revocation of permit makes discharge a cess of constitutional limitation, or if elec­ cured by sewage rentals. nuisance. tors fail to approve, where approval is re­ Section 212 provides for sale of such non Section 210. Municipalities required by quired, or if corporate authorities decide debt revenue bonds to highest bidder at Board to discontinue untreated or inade-. against issuance of direct obligation bonds, public sale, but where no bids are received, quately treated sewage, must construct then the municipality shall be required to may sell same at private sale for not less sewage disposal plants and to pay for same issue non debt revenue bonds and provide than par and interest. This is designed to out of general unappropriated funds. If for payment of principal and interest of enable communities to obtain help in none available, then by issuance of bonds such bonds from funds to be raised by im­ finances from Federal P. W. A. or similar subject to approval of Department of In­ posing sewer rentals. The Attorney Gen­ agencies. ternal Affairs. If the costs will not raise eral is given power to enforce the provi­ Section 213 preserves to the community any and all alternative methods of financ­ the debt beyond constitutional limitations, sions of this section by mandamus at the instance of the Board. ing sewage disposal and makes it clear that then Bonds shall be issued as a direct obli­ (Continued on Page 10) PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER ADOPT A BASS STREAM By GEORGE D. ROBEY, Outdoor Editor, The Columbus Citizen Courtesy The Ohio Conservation Bulletin

there. If they won't strike here they won't own hands. If the stream needed a bridge strike in another stream fifty miles away. across it he went to his neighbor and said, They don't go gallivanting here and there "We need a bridge here. I will help you over the country, trying new rivers and build it." lakes because they have heard that someone Now it is about time we got down to made a record catch there. They stick to cases. I could cite you endless examples of their bush, so to speak. what individuals have done to improve the But they do more than that. They study fishing in their favorite stream and in every their own streams and they cultivate them. case you would have a fisherman who rings A stream must be cultivated if it is to pro­ the bell pretty regularly. duce more fish and the task is even more R. E. Shaffer, Columbus resident, is one simple than caring for a garden. You have of those fishermen. Mr. Shaffer has adopted to plant the seeds of vegetables to produce about a half mile of Big Walnut creek above more vegetables but you do not necessarily and below the cottage where he lives in the have to plant fish to produce more fish. summer. He does not own a foot of the Fish are self-planting. You could put ten stream but he fishes it regularly and he million of them in a stream where it had cultivates it religiously. I'll venture to say not been properly cultivated or where the that Shaffer has attracted more game fish water itself was not suitable, where Na­ to that mile of creek, by encouraging them ture's own work had been hindered or de­ to take up permanent homes there, and stroyed, or where the water itself was not offering them the cover and protection they suitable to them by reason of its tempera­ require, lhan can be found in any similar ture, its movement, slow or fast, its im­ stretch of water in Ohio. Never once has he purities; and you would be lucky if you asked or required the help of another sports­ caught one of them the day after they were man, yet he welcomes many visitors and planted. shows them where the big ones lie. He has brought enough fish into that mile of A great many problems are involved in stream to afford sport for many fishermen the successful planting of fish. It is a job and he knows that his adopted water will for the specialists. Fish planted in the wrong place will migrate immediately to another place more to their liking, provided there is enough water in the stream for Upper Left: Indicated measurement on stick them to swim in. Those that are already shows the recommended depths of water off the there will migrate too if we don't do some­ end of a submerged log. thing about it. Below: "Logs should be tied nearly parallel to That brings us to the most important and the banks and weighted down with rocks wired effective method of increasing the fish pop­ underneath. ulation of our lakes and streams. It is im­ portant because it will do more to restore good fishing than all the organizations in the nation can do in the next fifty years. T MIGHT be well to sound the keynote of It is effective because every sportsman can this article by repeating a little joke do the job in his particular stretch of water, Iwhich we have all heard. It is the one about single handed; and it will benefit him in­ the minister who walked along the bank of a dividually. stream one Sunday and came upon a boy indulging in the most gentle form of the Dams and other expensive improvements Izaak Walton art. A cane pole, thrust in the can be built by clubs and organizations with grassy bank, was doing all the work while influence and money behind them and cer­ the boy was dreaming away a few hours tainly we should all lend our support to and waiting for the cork to bob. their power of numbers by keeping our "Young man," the preacher began in his names on the membership lists of one or most solemn voice, "don't you know you more sportsmen's organizations. shouldn't catch fish on the Sabbath?" Ohio needs more water in its streams and The boy looked up at the preacher with a we can have it only by building more dams renewed disgust in his eyes. and by making certain other stream im­ "Who's ketchin' any fish?" he asked. provements. But trained men will be hired Well, who IS "ketchin'" any fish? for those jobs. In the meantime, what can It happens to be my job to find the we do? answers to that question. As you well knew, A lot of sportsmen run around tearing some fishermen repeat time after time— their hair and yelling: "Why don't they do consistently, "in fact, some of the older heads something?" at the game have reached that enviable Who are THEY? If I yell something like stage at which most fishermen eventually that, I mean you; and if you yell it, you arrive if they are observing and persistent— mean me. And so we are just passing the being able to catch fish almost every time buck. they step into a stream. I sometimes wonder if we do not depend The reasons for their success are surpris­ too much on organization. For instance, ingly simple. One of the reasons is that you where would the pioneer have been if he will find them fishing the same stretch of had said, "Why don't they do something?" water day after day. They know the fish are If he needed a cabin, he built one with his never be fished out. He knows that every time a lunker is pulled out of his hiding place under a log or willow by some lucky fisherman, that lunker will be replaced by another, or at least by another smaller bass that is looking for a safe home. Beside his boat landing, Shaffer built a rock pile around a willow bush, just to see What would happen. He had never caught more than an occasional sunfish in that part of the creek. Now his little daughter can catch sunfish in seemingly limitless numbers almost any time by merely tossing a hook baited with a worm into the water at the edge of the rock pile. There was a space of bare muddy bank a short distance from the boat landing. It was a place that would have been scorned by any fish with the possible exception of a roving carp. Shaffer captured a floating log and anchored it to the shore, then weighted it down with ballast so it would remain solid and permanent near the bottom of the creek. Less than two months later he took two keeper bass from under this log and there is no telling how many more had set up housekeeping there because he has taken several more from the same place since that time. Along another barren stretch of muddy shore line this fisherman scattered branches that has been trimmed from trees. He an­ chored them to the shore so that high water Would not wash them away. You have but to look at that shore line now to realize that it is a natural hideout for bass; and if you drop a plug or fly there when the Weather and water are right you will learn quickly that you were not mistaken. Where do these fish come from? A little while ago we said that fish are self plant­ ing. We therefore reach the logical conclu­ sion that they come from other parts of the stream less attractive to them and plant themselves in the new and safer home. And what happens to the home they deserted? It immediately becomes occupied by another fish that is also looking for a better home, and so on down the line until the smooth, rockless, logless, bushless, weedless stretch of water is barren of fish; and that is ex­ actly how you would find it under any cir­ cumstances. Fish would not live there any­ way. They simply do not thrive in open, dredged ditches. They disappear if forced to live there, chiefly at the hands of their predators from whom they cannot hide. But suppose a sportsman places logs, stones and bushes in that ditch. Baby fish Will appear from nowhere and before you know it they will be keepers. It is quite become detrimental to the efforts of the stream so that the water may flow past amazing but it is true and the best way to scientists and to the welfare of the fish and them without too much obstruction. Large prove it is to try it. Fish multiply and grow their food which already exist in the stream. boulders may be placed anywhere in a Very rapidly if they are just given a rock Therefore, these suggestions are not to be stream as long as they do not obstruct its to hide under, a gravel bed on which to interpreted in any way which would result natural flow. It must be remembered that spawn, a sunken log to lie next, or a bush in stopping the natural flow of a stream. most of the Ohio streams have mud bottoms to offer shade and shadow that will ob­ When water is impounded by dams or by and during high water a great deal of silt scure their movement. log wings extending far out in the stream, is carried down and will become lodged be­ These are facts that any fisherman will quiet and sometimes stagnant pools are hind obstructions with the result that the learn for himself by merely observing the created and these present new problems for stream at that point will fill up and rob the results of these simple stream improve­ the fish that require moving water and they fish of many deep pools. ments. It is work which can do nothing but will be required to look elsewhere for more good. It cannot frustrate the efforts toward suitable habitat. Besides, many of the min­ It is a good practice for the fisherman to Scientific propagation which is being carried nows and small crustaceans upon which the place stones in the creek in a wing extend­ on so assiduously by the Division of Conser­ fish feed, require shallow water in which to ing out from the bank as shown in one of vation because it is merely improving the live, and if we go to the extent of changing the accompanying photos but this wing natural habitat of fish which already live water levels, we may do more harm than should extend down stream, never up in the stream. good. stream. If built this way rock wings will Of course, these improvements could be It is therefore suggested that logs be not slow up the water appreciably and in- carried out to the point where they would placed nearly parallel to the bank of the continued on Page 15) PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER

MORE BAIT FISH = MORE GAME FISH

By ALEX P. SWEIGART

In the cut above are shown golden shiners; Below, and to right, young smallmouthed bass.

ORE bass forage will mean more and ' in that stream. In contrast, Lake Gordon has of minnows, panfishes, suckers and catfish. M better bass. To illustrate: a vast supply of that cream of bass forage, However, in order that this distribution may Of the bass catches reported this season the crayfish. The flood, of course, had little prove most beneficial, an adequate supply from Lake Gordon, that picturesque little if any effect on the lake. This is a possible of live forage must be present in waters body of water in Bedford county, one in explanation to the amazing condition of the that are stocked. particular caught our attention. It was a bass in Gordon at the present time. Facing the facts, there are three out­ largemouthed bass, and here are its meas­ The welfare of warm water species of standing limitations being placed upon the urements: Length 19% inches, girth 15 game fishes is linked so closely to the food supply of forage for game fishes now pres­ inches, weight 5 pounds. Five pounds of available for them that a constantly dimin­ ent in our waters. First, of course, is pollu­ superb fighting fish built into a length of ishing supply of forage fishes and other tion. The anti-pollution bill, enacted by the 19% inches! Other catches, of large bass, organisms such as the crayfish and helgra- last session of the Legislature, and its pro­ have been in correspondingly perfect condi­ mite in many of our most popular fishing visions, explained so clearly by Judge Gro- tion. And what must be the answer? The waters should cause growing concern. Con­ ver C. Ladner, one of the nation's foremost food supply is there. tinued wasteful exploitation of our public advocates of clean streams, in this issue, should accomplish a great deal in remedying Now, let us glance at the other side of the fishing waters for bait fish and fish bait this phase of the problem. The drain upon picture. A smallmouthed bass, 21 inches in must inevitably make itself felt in fishing live forage in our lakes and streams by length, was taken this season in the Juniata for bass, wall eyed pike and pickerel, as carnivorous fishes such as the bass consti­ River. It weighed 3 pounds and 12 ounces. well as for popular species of panfish and tutes the second limitation. Since there is For those who might contend that bass, liv­ food fish. The annals of fish conservation in every indication of the growing popularity ing in the current of a fast stream such as Pennsylvania are replete with examples of of the bass and other live forage takers, the the Juniata, would naturally run more to what happens when the food supply of the presence of an abundance of available food raciness than they would in a quiet body of carnivorous fishes is insufficient to meet for them in our public waters is a matter water such as Lake Gordon, there can be no their needs. Cannibalism cuts down their concerning a rapidly increasing majority in argument. But that disparity of weight to own number; other species also feel the the ranks of our great army of fishermen. length, condition, if you please, in the two brunt of their voracity. Putting it briefly, The third limitation rests with the fisher­ fish brings us right back to the available the supply of live forage limits the supply men, and, if there is to be any definite im­ food supply in the waters from which they of bass, pickerel or wall-eyed pike, depend­ provement in the present supply of food for were taken. ent upon that forage, in any body of water. their favorite game species, they are in a We have already, in former issues of the During the next ten years, the Board of strategic position to bring it about. ANGLER, discussed the ravages of the 1936 Fish Commissioners plans to increase not­ flood on the stream bed of the Juniata and ably its distribution of smallmouthed and Wasteful Netting the possibility that its action may have seri­ largemouthed bass. Linked closely with this The loss incurred annually in live bait ously impaired the supply of natural forage bass stocking program will be distribution netting is intensified by the destruction of PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 9 thousands of small forage fishes and other game fish forage problem will be taken up should yield far more sport during their day organisms too small for use in live bait in detail by Charles M. Wetzel in a splen­ astream than double that number weakened fishing. This wanton waste in netting is a did article scheduled to appear in the near and sluggish from crowding in the bait ttiost serious phase of the problem. The Fish future in the ANGLER. bucket. They are also having success in Laws specify that, in taking bait fish or fish transporting bait by placing a good size bait, a dip net or minnow net not to exceed Loss in Keeping Live Bait lump of ice on top of the bucket for a longer four feet in length and four feet in width Of the hundreds of thousands of bait fish trip to a favorite stream. And, most impor­ be used. Usually, because of the small size taken from the public waters each year, it of the minnow seine, individuals taking live is doubtful whether more than 40 percent tant of all, they are doing their part in bait seek small runs tributary to larger ever are put to the use for which they were conserving the supply of live forage by Waters, where it can be used more effectively. intended. Loss in transportation, through seining just enough for their needs on a In one of these small tributaries, a scoop undue crowding in bait buckets, takes heavy contemplated trip. Another excellent and through a pool may frequently result in a toll, and additional inroads on their number growing practice is to release bait fish not catch of from 20 to 50 small fish of various occur while they are being kept in unsuit­ used after a day's fishing in the stream species. Probably, of that number, only half able water or in unsanitary bait boxes. The rather than taking the chance of losing the a dozen will be large enough for fishing water supply for larger cities is frequently lot on the return home. Purposes. These are placed in the bait treated heavily for purification purposes, bucket, and then, in some instances, what and as a result, bait fish do not seem able happen?? The net is shaken out on the to live in it for prolonged periods. During Bait Fish Regulations shore preparatory to the next scoop and its periods of high water temperatures in Classified as bait fish under the Pennsyl­ tiny captives are destroyed. So fine is the streams where live boxes are placed, the vania Fish Laws are all species of minnows ftiesh on most modern minnow nets, that very small forage fish are often taken in excepting fallfish, all forms of killifishes and each scoop. Their destruction through care­ stone catfish. The fish bait classification in­ less seining is inexcusable. cludes crawfish, helgramites (larva of the Dobson fly), water worms (larva of the There is little reason to question the vital Crane fly) and mussels. A licensed fisher­ contribution of small tributary runs to the man is permitted to have in possession for food supply of larger streams. Call these s fishing purposes on any one day, 50 bait taall streams "fish incubators" if you will, fish or 50 fish bait. 3nd a fairly good descriptive name will have been given them. Certain it is that the sucker runs up them to spawn, as does the Pickerel. We have taken and released the young of both species, as well as young Sftiallmouthed black bass from small mea­ dow tributaries to the Tuscarora Creek in Juniata county in years gone by. Tesselated darters, commonly called "sugar fish" or sweet bait," silver shiners, horned dace or ^Un chubs, fallfish, negro chubs or cut-lip bait fish crowded in such boxes often be­ In fairness to the average live bait fish­ chubs and stone catfish, all of exceptional come weakened. Unless every care is taken erman, let it be said that he will not re­ value as forage fishes, comprised most spe­ to remove dead fish promptly, serious in­ peatedly take from the public waters the cies of this classification taken in these little roads on their number may be made by a total number of bait fish or fish bait which Warm water streams. Tuscarora Creek it­ fungus which attacks them. Injuries to their the law permits him to have in possession. self abounds with shiners, cut-lip chubs, scales when they brush against the wire of But every rule must have its exceptions. stone catfish and fallfish, and the fertility the box often makes them particularly re­ Intensive fishing for bass and other spe­ °f its tributaries as food producers must ceptive to this form of disease. cies here in Pennsylvania has, fortunately, have strong bearing on the excellent forage Fortunately, successful live bait fishermen acted as a curb to any undue increase in conditions prevailing in the main stream. are resorting more and more to the practice this species. Angling as a sport is growing Raking over riffles in the larger streams, of taking only a sensible number of bait in popularity perhaps more rapidly than food producing areas vital to the welfare of fish, say 15 or 20, with them for a day's any other pastime. Increased license sales their fish population, also may prove to be fishing trip. They realize that these bait will make possible far more intensive stock­ a destructive practice. This phase of the fish, active and in the pink of condition, ing of fhe public waters than was ever ac­ complished before, not only of game fishes but of forage fishes and other popular spe­

• • •- . . ;••$ cies. To work to the best advantage, how­ ever, this increase in propagation and stock­ ing must be accompanied by wise conserva­ tion of the resources nature maintains in

•••-' ' our streams and lakes. The fisherman him­ W •' ' - V i, * ' self can be a vital force in making this • possible. It may seem like stretching the point to say it—but an abundance of bass food in our bass waters today is more vital to the

•l' *+' ^ *'*'.- '" future of this grand sport than an abun­ HH Ml dance of bass and other game fishes living in streams and lakes robbed of much of this Flood waters, receding in the Perklomen Creek, trapped the young fish shown above. At right, rescue work in progress food supply. 10 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER PENNSYLVANIA'S NEW PURE STREAM LAW (Continued from Page 5) these provisions are to be supplementary and not exclusive means of financing. Article III (Industrial Wastes) Section 301 contains a broad prohibition against discharge or polluting industrial wastes. Section 302, existing industrial waste discharges into the waters of the Common­ wealth or into sewer systems must be dis­ continued when the Sanitary Water Board shall, after investigation, declare the same to be injurious to public health or to ani­ mal or aquatic life, or to the use of the water for domestic, industrial or recrea­ tional use. Two important provisions in this section should be mentioned,—first, the discharge of polluting waste into a sewer system is provided for. The reason being that an of­ fending industry cannot be permitted to do indirectly what it may not do directly. Moreover discharges of industrial wastes of certain types prevents sewage disposal Courtesy Portland uetmtnl rfwvuutn/ii. systems from functioning properly or may A deadly menace to health and streams. overload them. Thus pickling acid in too great a quantity may retard, if not actually prevent, the necessary digestive action of Commonwealth to ascertain the extent of after the Board has declared the same to be the bacteria in an Imhoff system; or an pollution and remedies to be employed to a polluting discharge pursuant to Section abbattoir may so greatly overload a sew­ correct the same, as well as to safeguard, 302. In default of payment of fine, or after age disposal plant as to compel its enlarge­ by prescribing rules and regulations, the repeated offense after such fine, punishment ment, thereby shifting a proper cost of the purity of the unpolluted waters and to by jail sentence is provided. It should be industry to the other taxpayers. What is purify those now polluted. observed that this penalty provision only indicated under such circumstances is a becomes collectible after the Board has preliminary treatment of the industrial Section 305 empowers the Board to fully investigate the subject of pollution; gives acted. Industry is thus protected against waste before it is discharged into the sew­ officious meddlers and against oppression. age system. The Sanitary Water Board can, its agents plenary powers to enter factor­ ies. It authorizes the Board to conduct sci­ Even the County District Attorneys or City therefore, under this section come to the Solicitors may not move to collect any relief of a municipality by requiring pre­ entific experiments under its own supervi­ sion or in colleges and universities, in order penalty in absence of such preliminary dec­ liminary treatment by the offending in­ laration of the Board but they can apply dustry. to discover reasonable and practical means for treatment of polluting wastes. for an injunction under Article VII. The purpose of this provision is to give polluter The other provision is contained in the Section 306. This is one of the most im­ his day in Court, either by appeals from last sentence of the section and is a safe­ portant sections of the Bill. It provides ab­ guard against a Board that fails to func­ solute protection of the now clean waters the order of the Board (See Article VI) tion. By this sentence it is made clear that of the Commonwealth by prohibiting all where the Board has acted or by an op­ where a given discharge is actually injur­ polluting discharges. Whatever may be said portunity to defend a Bill of Complaint in ious to health, animal and aquatic life or in favor of giving existing industry a rea­ Court of Equity if such proceedings are domestic, industrial or recreation use of the sonable opportunity to correct the evil, there taken by local officials in absence of action waters, it is unlawful and a nuisance can be no doubt that the few streams now by the Board. whether the Board declares so or not. Read uncontaminated, are entitled to the abso­ Section 310. This Section exempts acid in conjunction with Article VII this pro­ lute protection given by this section. Prop­ vision makes it possible for communities mine drainage and silt water from coal erty rights are fully protected by the au­ mines until such time as in the opinion of through the District Attorney, or its Solici­ thority to the Board to permit discharges tor to apply in the name of the Common­ the Sanitary Water Board practical means of waste effluents after complete purifica­ for the removal of the polluting properties wealth for an injunction to restrain such tion. nuisance despite failure or refusal of the of such drainage become known. Board to act. This is a double check which Section 307 distinguishes between exist­ There may be some criticism by conserva­ will effectively prevent any favoritism or a ing industries and new by requiring new tionists and others with regard to this ex­ preferred list by any future Sanitary industries producing a polluting waste, to emption. Therefore, an explanation is in Water Board. A situation charged to have be equipped with appropriate treatment order. The exemption results from the existed prior to the Earle Administration. works. Industries that have been closed claim that acid mine drainage is an un­ more than six months take the category of solved problem of industry which has here­ Section 303 enables the Sanitary Water new industries. Public interest is protected tofore eluded solution. On the other hand it Board to obtain full and complete informa­ by the requirement of public notice in local was developed at the Lonergan Federal tion as to the nature, character and quan­ newspapers of any permit application. Control of Pollution Bill hearings, that the tity of discharge of industrial wastes by re­ Section 308 requires submission to and problem has been solved and acid mine quiring industries to supply such informa­ approval by the Sanitary Water Board of drainage can be successfully treated at the tion on form blanks made available by the plans, designs and relevant data covering cost of a few cents a ton. If this be so> Board. The falsity of any information so the construction of trade waste treatment the exemption does no harm for the Sani­ supplied is made perjury. This section will works. tary Water Board can make a full investi­ enable the Board to rapidly classify the Section 309 provides a penalty to be im­ gation and if it so finds, so declare and discharges as pollution or harmless as the posed by summary conviction in the amount the exemption ends. On the other hand, i* case may be without extended costly inves­ of not less than $100.00 nor more than tigation and expensive tests. it is found not to have been solved then $500.00, together with a per diem penalty the exemption is reasonable, especially when Section 304 empowers the Board to make of $10.00 for every day that an industry we remember that if you remove from tW a complete survey of the waters of the continues to discharge untreated waste streams all of the other pollution whid1 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 11

can be successfully treated, together with ment. The article makes clear, that its pro­ to proceed. This enables the Attorney Gen­ sealing of the abandoned mines, the natural visions do not apply to sewage or industrial eral as Chief Law Officer of the Common­ purification ability of our waters may be so pollution of the type covered in the preced­ wealth to intervene if he deems it neces­ increased as to enable them to satisfactorily ing articles, nor do they prohibit use of ex­ sary to protect the public interest. digest or assimilate this one type of pollu­ plosives, necessary for engineering pur­ Jurisdiction of these proceedings is vested tion. poses, if a permit has been first obtained. in three Courts,—the Dauphin County As to the silt water provision there is Section 402-403 gives the Board power Court, Common Pleas Court of the County little that can be said in justification of its to adopt and promulgate reasonable rules where the nuisance is being committed, or insertion at the dictation of the coal sen­ and regulations covering this kind of pol­ the Common Pleas Court of the County ators of the general assembly in the last lution and covering installation and mainte­ "through which or along the borders of days of the Session. The House and the nance of septic tanks. which flows the water into which such pol­ sponsor of the Bill, accepted this amend­ lution has been discharged at any point ment, rather than risk the Bill failing in Article V above." By this provision the proceeding the last days of the Session, and in doing DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLIES can be begun in a Court which will not be so were most wise because in the last analy­ By this article the power of the Sanitary unduly tender to the polluter because its sis it is harmless. Adequate, reasonable and Water Board to protect and safeguard pres­ county profits therefrom passes to the det­ practical means are now known for re­ ent and future water supply streams, by riment of . . . the county below. moving silt and culm. This much was ad­ the adoption of orders and regulations is The Court in its decree is required to fix mitted by the spokesman of the mining in­ preserved and made more effective in that a reasonable time within which the pollut­ terests at the House Committee hearing. the exemption under the former law of coal ing industry must comply with the Decree, He stated his company (the largest in the mine drainage and tannery waste is re­ except, of course, in cases of emergency anthracite field) now removes the solids moved. It was this exemption which has where, in the opinion of the Court the exi­ from the silt water, and does so at a profit, heretofore prevented this power from be­ gencies of the case require immediate for the fine coal thus removed has a very ing used effectively. The highest use of abatement. ready market. The Sanitary Water Board water is for domestic water supply, New can quickly find, therefore, that practical Under Section 602 where public health is York vs. New Jersey, 283 U. S. 336. An endangered, a preliminary or special injunc­ means for removing the same are now uncontaminated source is so essential to known. tion may be awarded by the Court. public health as to demand protection Section 603 grants jurisdiction of the This will, no doubt have the Board's against every type of pollution. Under this summary proceedings authorized in this early attention for the discharge of such provision the Sanitary Water Board can Act to Justices of Peace, magistrates or solids into our rivers have long been a and should promptly promulgate regula­ aldermen of the County where the offense potent contributing factor to floods. The tions declaring all of the now clean streams occurs, or in a County where the public is people in coal regions have suffered so of the State potential sources of water affected by the polluting discharges. much damage from floods that they will no supply. Section 604 requires the Sanitary Water doubt be eager to have this danger removed. Once appropriate regulations are prop­ Board to investigate written complaint Finally, it should be remembered that erly adopted, their violation may be pun­ made by any responsible person, and to this exemption is an exemption only so far ished in summary proceedings by fine of institute such proceedings as the investi­ as Article III of the Act is concerned. The one to five hundred dollars, and a repetition gation may show to be warranted. common law right of the State to compel of the offense is made a misdemeanor pun­ Section 605, is an important provision. a cessation of discharge of acid mine drain­ ishable by further fine of $500.00 to It is designed to safeguard industries and age or silt water under the doctrine of $1,000.00 and by imprisonment. Specific or­ municipalities against unreasonable, arbi­ SAGAMORE COAL CO. 281 Pa. 233 and ders of the Board relating to protection of trary or oppressive actions by the Board. PHILA. COAL & IRON CO. Supreme water supply, if not obeyed within thirty This is done by making any order, decision, Court Cases, Misc. Docket 1, No. 246 (orig­ days after notice are punishable in the rule or regulation made by the Board sub­ inal jurisdiction) is left unimpaired, and same manner. The article also makes the ject to appeal within thirty days to the expressly preserved by Section VII herein­ violation of the orders and regulations of Dauphin County Court with full power in after discussed. the Board a nuisance and abatable by in­ the Court to set aside or modify the same, junction proceedings. if it be established by the appellant that the Article IV discharge involved is not, nor likely to be, PETTY POLLUTIONS Article VI a polluting discharge. Constitutional rights Some pollution of water is occasional PROCEDURE of property are thus safeguarded. It must rather than continual. This is the type re­ Section 601 of this article lays down the be remembered, however, that industry even ferred to in this article as petty. But it is procedure for abating the pollution declared by long continuance cannot acquire a prop­ only petty in the sense of being non-con­ by the previous sections of the Act to be erty right as against the State to pollute tinuous. Of this type is the pollution by nuisances. It provides in broad terms for water, either under the State or Federal Road contractors dumping into a nearby abatement in the manner now provided by Constitution. See COMMONWEALTH v. stream waste lime, rather than hauling it law or equity. Public nuisances are now EMMERS, 221 Pa. 298. away, or the emptying of washings from abatable by Pennsylvania law in two ways; Section 607 opens all papers, records, and containers of agricultural poisonous sprays, (a) By criminal proceedings where after documents of the Board to examination by or the discharge of the contents of filter conviction the court may direct abatement the public. Copies of orders and regulations vats during process of cleaning them. While as a part of the sentence, and enforced when certified by the Board are made ad­ termed petty the harm done to the streams through the Sheriff. See BARCLAY v. missible in evidence. is none the less real. Such callous disregard COMMONWEALTH, 25 PA., 503 (b) By Section 608 continues any existing rules of public interest has been known to result Bill in Equity filed for an injunction with and regulations or orders heretofore made in the killing of every living thing in a the usual powers of a Court of Equity to under previous laws until changed by the stream, including domestic and wild water­ enforce its decrees. COMMONWEALTH ex Board. fowl, as well as aquatic life, to poison rel ATTY. GEN. v. SAGAMOUR COAL Section 609 authorizes the Board to fix cows and render children bathing therein CO. 281 PA. 233. and charge reasonable filing fees for ap­ plications and for permits issued. terribly sick. Obviously the punishment of By this section it is provided, suits to such an offense should be prompt and cer­ abate nuisances under this act may be be­ Article VII tain. gun in equity or law in the name of the Is a very important article. It preserves Section 1. This article declares such pol­ Commonwealth upon relation of the At­ unimpaired all existing rights and remedies lution unlawful and makes the offender sub­ torney General and also (except in case of which the State municipalities or persons ject to a fine of not less than one hundred -a municipality discharging sewage under may now have under existing law. Pro­ nor more than $500.00 to be imposed in permit) upon the relation of any District ceedings under the Act are not to be in­ summary proceedings. Repetition of the of­ Attorney of any County or City Solicitor of terpreted as an exclusive but as an addi­ fense after such fine, is made a misde­ any municipality affected. The latter offi­ tional means of attacking the pollution evil, meanor punishable upon conviction by fine cers must, however, first give ten (10) days' the growing menace to our modern civiliza­ of $500.00 to $1,000.00 and by imprison­ notice to the Attorney General of intention tion. 12 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JUST A HELLBENDER THE ANGLER'S FORUM In company with Mr. E. H. Gardner, In Which ANGLER Readers Air Their Views About Fish and Fishing Clarks Summit, Pa., I drove to Tunkhan- nock one Saturday afternoon last fall and EDITOR'S NOTE : Letters run in this column are timely comments concerning Penn­ fished in the Susquehanna river at that sylvania angling. They are not to be construed as reflecting in any way the atti­ point. The river not at all encouraging, was tude of the Board of Fish Commissioners in its program. above normal and very muddy but like all fishermen we just had to wet our lines. Using various baits all afternoon we had this hobby and am now starting to sell my no luck, however about dusk I decided to FLY-TYING IDEA flies. rebait a line with worms which was hanging "Enclosed in this letter," writes Bill "I read the Angler and really enjoy it. over a ledge of rock. After taking out the Bates of Abington, "you will find a drawing I have seen other fellows ideas in it and slack, the line held to what I thought was of an idea I think every amateur fly-tyer think they would like to know about this a rock. Having visions of losing another should know about. It is simple and cheap hook and sinker I gave a very quick pull and what a surprise. Out of the water and over my head about eight feet I could see something sailing BOY FISHERMAN through the air which appeared to be a nice sized eel. Congratulating ourselves EXPRESSES VIEWS over the catch we started back in the brush looking for it. However, much to our dis­ Dear Editor: may the eel turned out to be a Hellbender My father is a subscriber of the "Angler" which had already started back to meet us. so I get to read the book. I have seen some Now to tell the truth we had never seen writing on future fishermen and I'm glad one of these little fellows before and any­ to say this includes me. one who has can appreciate the dilemma we My father taught me fly fishing at a were in. Being too timid to touch the thing young age and I now am able to take fish I cut the line about three foot from the by this method. My wish is that more boys mouth, broke up the fishing party and would learn this art which will help to brought it home. This little animal weighed conserve fish for our future sport. three pounds and measured twenty one and I would like to see more men and boys one-half inches. Not being satisfied with the use artificial baits for bass which would eleven little fish he expelled when he was help to save undersize bass for the future. caught he bit on a very small garden worm I also wish to see polluted streams and was hooked. but it really works. I have a twenty cent cleaned up. After inviting the neighbors to view the vise, and a brace from a tool chest. Simply I hope to live to see my wishes come true. creature I placed it in the Scranton Park put the shaft of the brace into the vise, and Yours truly, Zoo where it livod for a short time thus you have a very tight and serviceable vise. ending another educational experience which Albert Shope, you can always expect when fishing. I have tied flies for three years, and I am Blair Street, now sixteen. I have gotten lots of fun from Bellwood, Pennsylvania. Submitted by Special Warden W. G. Locker BIG CARP TAKEN SCHUYLKILL RALLY IN FRENCH CREEK Sportsmen of western Schuylkill County FISH PRIZE AWARDS staged one of their most successful field A McDonald newspaper carried this story meets in the history of the active clubs in AT CANTON MEETING of the taking of a big carp by one of the that vicinity on Sunday, August 15. Over Warden Myron Shoemaker of Laceyville noted anglers of that vicinity on May 8. 1000 outdoorsmen and their families par­ reports the following prize awards in the We quote: ticipated in a varied program which in­ annual fishing contest conducted by the "Jules DuBois of High street, McDonald, cluded live bird shooting, trap shooting and Canton Rod and Gun Club: had the pleasure of landing what is prob­ entertainment by a talented orchestra. Brook trout, Schrader Creek, 11% inches, ably the largest fresh water fish brought to Representatives of the Game and Fish caught by Charles Russell; brown trout, town. While fishing in French Creek last Commissions spoke at the gathering, and a Schrader Creek, 20% inches, 2 pounds one Saturday he landed a 21% pound carp which bait casting exhibition was given after con­ ounce, caught by James Crawford; brown had a girth of 26 inches and was 33 inches clusion of the program. The editor stressed trout, Pine Creek, 16 inches, caught by A. long. A nice catch of French Creek's famous need for utmost cooperation on the part of Lyle Burlinghame; wall-eyed pike, Susque­ suckers and a nice rainbow trout, the latter the sportsmen for success of the conserva­ hanna River, 22% inches, caught by Law­ an unprecedented catch according to the tion program now being carried forward. rence Bailey; pickerel, 23 inches, 3% natives on French Creek, at this point or The meet was held at Orwin, near Tower pounds, caught by 14-year old Calvin Kel- section of stream, was also made by the City. ley. members of the fishing party which was comprised of the Joseph Johnen and Jules DuBois families." BOARD OF FISH COMMISSIONERS HARRISBURG, PA. Husband (hearing burglars downstairs): SUBSCRIPTION BLANK "Sh-H, dear. TJiis is going to be a battle of brains." Enclosed find fifty cents ($.50) for one year's subscription to PENNSYLVANIA Wifey: "How brave of you, dear, to go ANGLER. unarmed." Name

Neighbor Lady: "Willie, I need a dozen {Print Name) eggs from the store. Do you suppose you Street and Number could go for me?" Willie: "No, but I heard Pa say that he City could." PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER IS TROUT NURSERY STREAMS LIVE TROUT CONTEST CLOSED BY COMMISSION AT LEHIGH OUTING At a meeting of the Board the following Winding up the 1937 trout season in glori­ resolution was adopted in reference to clos­ ous fashion, the Lehigh County Fish and ing tributary streams: Game Protective Association on Saturday, "Upon proper request from sportsmen's July 31, staged its fourth annual field day organizations, authority be given for closing and picnic at Dorney Park just outside of all tributaries on not more than two (2) ma­ Allentown. Several thousand members of jor streams in the county in which located, the association and spectators from six with the understanding that prior to the counties witnessed the day's program. A opening of the season in 1938, an investiga­ guest who was more than welcome was tion be made by a representative of the Samuel J. Truscott, member of the Board Board, setting forth any benefits derived." of Fish Commissioners, who was entertained The following requests were approved: by Ed. dinger, his fellow-cottager at Prom­ Cameron County ised Land Lake, and who "got a big thrill" Names of Streams Name of Club out of the contests. Fishing Creek W. G. Munsell, Pres., Big Spring Draft Cameron Co. Rod & Featuring the afternoon's events was the Gun Club, Emporium, Penna. live trout contest in which the association Clearfield County more than met the expectations of the Tributaries of Hazlett Steele R. Kime, Sec, anglers who took part and the gallery of Run Mahaffey Game & Fish enthusiastic spectators. Nearly one thou- Tributaries of Curry Run Prot. Ass'n, Mahaffey. Penna. stand trout, including 75 brownies, meas­ We hed a tarnal heavy lick o' a thunder­ Elk County uring all the way from 15 to 26 inches, and storm in these parts about a month back, Fallshanty, 3 miles flow- Fox Township Sports- purchased from the Trexler hatcheries, were an' you oughter hev seen the crick. It was ing into the East men's Ass'n, Branch of Kersey Run. Ben Smith, Sec, impounded in a 300 foot space in Cedar so dern muddy a feller could almost figger Spring Run from what is Dagus Mines, Penna. Creek, and there for over six hours the con­ ter cut it with a knife an' Jeb Hiller an' me known as ''Bony testants waged the battle for the day's Gergs" bridge to source. makes up right off ter ketch us some eels This is head waters of honors. The anglers fished in relays of an' catties. Now, ef a feller hits the crick Spring Run, and about twelve for ten minute periods, a total of 5 miles in length. right when the mud starts arunnin', thet's Mill Creek Elk County Sportsmen's 252 entries being listed. the best time fer catties an' we timed 'er Bear Creek Ass'n, A. J. Hanes, Sec, Fish Warden C. Joel Young managed the jest right. Funny thing how the leetle stone St. Marys, Penna. contest and there was action every minute catties starts takin' yer bait when the Lycoming County from the time he blew the first whistle until crick's been muddy a spell. Pine Creek Consolidated Sportsmen the twenty-first and last event was con­ We ketched us some bullheads thet ud go Lycoming Creek of Lycoming Co., D. W. Bell, Pres., cluded. Bob Glover, local fishing columnist, fifteen inches an' one wallopin' big eel. But Williamsport, Penna. them wasn't the only fish we ketched, not Westmoreland County by a long sight. I never seen sech a scad o' Special rules and regulations set up on rock bass bitin' afore. Durned ef we didn't Lynn Run, Westmoreland County, Laurel ketch about 20 rockies, an' 10 o' them was Hill Trout Nursery located on this stream. too small ter keep. We done our best ter Request of the Westmoreland - Allegheny let them young rockies go without hurtin' County Trout Nursery, R. W. Hanson, em, but the leetle cusses was so greedy thet Chairman, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania. about half hed swallered the bait. The big­ gest rockies we ketched went 9 inches apiece, an' ef you figger a 9 inch rockie TYRONE ANGLERS ain't a might nice fish an' good eatin', you're wrong. All told, we kept two bullheads SCORE HEAVILY apiece, two rockies an' thet eel. Big trout were taken in good numbers by These here rock bass don't seem ter mind Tyrone fishermen on opening day, the fol­ what kind o' water they bite in. Many's a lowing report indicates. day I been out when the bass wasn't hittin' If fishermen over the state did as well as thet I've hed lots o' fun with the rock bass those in this section the streams generally an' sunnies. Reckon they're nice leetle fish furnished good fishing on the first day. at thet, fer the kids in this neck o' the In Grove's display window on West Tenth woods gets a big kick out o' fishin' fer 'em. street 215 beauties were on exhibition up until eight o'clock on April 15 when the fol­ lowing prizes were awarded. Pair of fisherman's hip boots, by the A. FLASH A. Tinsman company to George Lykens for" On August 16 the United States Senate landing the largest brook trout. The fish Passed the Barkley-Vinson Bill amendment measured 11% inches. Jack Sweitzer, larg­ est rainbow trout, 20% inches. Baldy to include five sections of the Lonergan Bill Lewis, second largest rainbow, 20% inches, providing enforcement measures and de­ A. L. Dubbs, third largest rainbow 19 clares pollution of interstate navigable inches. waters to be against the public policies of Mr. Grove, as has been his custom, gave the United States and to be a public and away three valuable prizes to the winners. common nuisance. Details to the measure Twenty-one individual catches were on •will appear in a near future issue of the display as follows: ANGLER. C. B. Abrams 6, Earl Peck 13, C. B. Win- gate 2, W. J. Harris 2, A. C. Trimble 10, Sailor: "Waiter, these are very small Pqul Wallace 1, R. J. Kingston and son oysters." James 15, Luther Bonsell 15, Art Bonsell Waiter: "Yes, sir." 15, Sid Bonsell 13, P. W. Smith 12, Jask Sailor: "And they don't appear to be very Switzer 9, Shet Snyder 12, Ray Irwin 15, fresh." Elmer Umholtz 15, Baldy Lewis 12, George Vincent Campbell, Fullerton, displays his 20'/2-in. Waiter: "Then it's lucky they're small, Lykens 7, Brownie Woomer 15, Clyde Lit­ brown trout, weighing slightly over 4 pounds. ain't it, sir?" tle 15, Louis Chille 3, A. L. Dubbs 8. (Marks on the fish are gravel) 14 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER made a runaway of the contest, winning distance. With a score of 93 in the former Kline, 78; Bart Snyder, 70; Charles Wolfe, the prizes not only for the largest fish he was 13 points higher than his nearest 58; Lewis Kunkle, 79; C. K. Fox, 89. caught but for the most taken in any ten- competitor. His score in the distance con­ Distance Plug Cast minute period. He landed a 21% inch test was 76 feet. In the plug casting con­ brownie weighing four and a half pounds, test Fox made a score of 184 feet for first Harold Seiger, 85; F. S. Gruver, 152; D. and caught 14 trout in one of his ten-min­ prize in the distance event, taking second in Schlosser, 144; C. K. Fox, 184. ute periods. Other large catches were re­ the accuracy competition with a percentage The success of this year's annual picnic ported, Vincent 0. Campbell landing one of of 89, as against 91 for the winner, F. S. was due, in a great measure, to the untiring 20% inches; Howard Gangwer, 20 inches; Gruver, of Sellersville. The scores were: efforts of Robert L. Plarr, F. Al. Brown, Lester Althouse, 15 inches; Robert L. Plarr, Fly Casting Accuracy Contest C. Joel Young, Milo M. Miller, Harry Rick- president of the association, 19% inches; ert, Charles Wolfe, Bart Snyder, Samuel Robert LaFaver, 20% inches; Lewis Kun- Bart Snyder, 80; Harold Seiger, 50; Lewis, James Bachman, Ed. dinger, Rich­ kle, 20% inches; and Charles H. Nehf, 20% Charles Wolfe, 55; Richard Wagner, 65; ard Wagner, George Zimmerman, Charles inches. Jerry Grantz, 68; H. W. Grantz, 60; Rob­ Daudenspeck, Robert LaFaver, Harvey W. ert Glover, 68; Allen Kline, 40; F. S. Gruver, Following the picnic, the remaining fish, Muth, Marvin Weiss, George Welf and 71; Wilson Beitler, 77; H. Grantz, 73; F. Al. Charles H. Nehf. numbering over 900, were stocked in the Brown, 76; Lewis Kunkle, 75; C. K. Fox, Dorney Park Dam and in the Little Lehigh 93; George Welty, 75; Robert LaFaver, 66; Creek for next season's anglers to catch. Charles H. Nehf, 72. A general and a colonel were walking Some of the larger ones have been tagged Distance Fly Cast down the street. They met many privates, and prizes will be awarded for those that and each time the colonel would salute he are caught. C. K. Fox, 76; Lewis Kunkle, 75; H. W. Grant, 61; W. Beitler, 61; Allen Kline, 50; would mutter, "The same to you." Large fields entered the fly and plug cast­ H. J. Grantz, 55; Richard Wagner, 65. The general's curiosity soon got the bet­ ing contests, Charles K. Fox, of Harrisburg, ter of him, and he asked: "Why do you who is a regular attendant at these gather­ Accuracy Plug Cast always say that?" ings, along with his pal, Lewis S. Kunkle, Robert Glover, 86; Donald Schlosser, 82; The colonel answered, "I was once a winning the former both for accuracy and F. S. Gruver, 91; Taylor Schuler, 70; Allen private and I know what they're thinking."

Their efforts had much to do with the success of the Lehigh outing. Standing (left to right) Samuel J. Truscott, member of Fish Commission; George Zimmer­ man, secretary of Lehigh County Fish and Same Protective Association; Milo Miller, treasurer; F. Al Brown, awards chairman; Kneeling — C. Joel Young. warden, Ed dinger, Committeeman, and Bart Snyder, federation delegate PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 15 ADOPT A BASS STREAM (Continued from Page 7) stead of catching silt they will allow it to flow on past and the action of the current against the wing will hollow out pools in the stream bed at the base of the rocks. The rocks will serve as objects to which midge larvae and crustaceans may cling and these will attract the game fish to the pools created at that point. Lest you may think that an hour spent in building a rock wing of this kind will not pay you for the effort, allow me to give you one example. The reputation of Harry Cliff as one of Ohio's most successful fly fishermen will not be denied by any who know him. Mr. Cliff carries on a one man stream improvement project every time he goes fishing. At a point in one river near Columbus, Mr. Cliff built such a rock wing. He allowed about two months for fish to set up housekeeping there and then returned with his fly rod to see if he had attracted any fish to a place where before, there had been none. A home-made fly, cast just above Catch of bass made in French Creole in two hours by James Acker of Venango the line of rocks, netted Mr. Cliff just fifty small-mouth bass and he never moved out structive. He learns to know the fishermen to say, "Well, I'll do my fishing in another of his tracks. The bass were all under-sized well and he will go a long way toward pre­ stream." And the farmer says, "Why should and were returned to the water but the venting unsportsmanlike and destructive I make a fight for the fishermen. I don't proof is evident that the bass now live there. practices along his part of the stream. Fish­ even know them and they do nothing for And it will not take them long to grow to ermen who want to take all and give noth­ me." keeper size. ing will eventually find their presence un­ It is never until you feel that you own There is still another advantage to be welcome on a great many streams. something that you will fight hard to pro­ gained by every fisherman adopting a cer­ There is another advantage to this co­ tect it. If you have adopted part of a stream tain stream or part thereof, and making operation between fishermen and farmers. and have enticed some nice game fish to himself responsible for its care and cultiva­ It is the enormous step we will take toward take up their abode in it, you will feel that tion. He immediately becomes on good the control of the pollution crime. A fisher­ they are yours; and the farmer will under­ terms with the farmer or landowner who is man who has worked on a stream and im­ stand how you feel. anxious to see his section of the stream im­ proved it to a point where it is paying him proved and made safe from vandals. If the dividends is not going to stand idly by and landowner knows that the same fishermen see the fruits of his labor wiped out by the come time after time to his stream and that poisonous output of some factory. The PHEASANTS RELEASED ON they are interested in building up that farmer is going to take the side of the FARM GAME REFUGES stream for their permanent enjoyment and sportsman. And so, we begin to stand with satisfaction, he immediately enters into the a united front toward this pollution prob­ Shallcross Announced Completion spirit of the enterprise because it is con- lem. The way it stands now, it is too easy Of Propagating Pond Game Protector Ambrose Gerhart, re­ ported at the August meeting of the Perkio­ men Valley Sportsmen's Association, Schwenksville, that 1840 pheasants were released in Farm Game Refuge plots re­ cently. One hundred and twenty quail have also been distributed in these refuge areas, ac­ cording to Gerhart. He reported the prog­ ress and completion of such areas in the surrounding locality and made an urgent request for sportsmen's cooperation with the authorities to report those who enter these game retreats for the purpose of getting illegal game. Two additional game deputies were ap­ pointed recently who will be working under the jurisdiction of Mr. Gerhart in this sec­ tion. They are:—William Hillegass, of Red Hill, and Henry H. Gerhart, of Souderton. Howard C. Shallcross, President of the Perkiomen group of sportsmen announced the completion of a propagating pond on the old Shallcross property in the vicinity of Graterford. This regular meeting of the Perkiomen Valley Sportsmen's Association was held in Memorial Park, at Schwenksville and after the business meeting the boys enjoyed re­ freshments in the Park auditorium. Rain Harry Stye and Charles Roeder, East Greenville, Montgomery County, prevented an out-of-doors doggie roast with a catch of Perkiomen bass which was scheduled for that evening.'' 16 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER Bradford County — FINGERLING AMBITION REALIZED BROOK TROUT: N. Br. Wyalusing Creek, START 'EM YOUNG trib. Susq. River; Wysox Creek, trib. Susq. River; Lt. Meadows Creek, trib. Susq. River; Wapposening Creek, trib. Susq. River. Butler County — RAINBOW TROUT: Bear Creek. Cambria County—BROOK TROUT—N. Br. Lt. Conemaugh or Brannuff Creek or Barker Run or Howell Creek; Big Laurel Run or Dysart Run; S. Br. Blacklick Creek or Williams Run; N. Br. Blacklick Creek; S. Fork Lt. Conemaugh River. RAINBOW TROUT: Edinsburg Water Company Dam. Cameron County — FINGERLING BROWN TROUT: N. Creek, trib. Drift­ They start them out young in Allentown, wood Creek; Driftwood Creek, trib. Sinne- as is shown by the accompanying illustra­ mahoning Creek; Elk Run, trib. Sinnema- tion. The picture is that of Richard Smith, honing Creek; Portage Run, trib. Sinnema- four-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred A. honing Creek; Hunts Run, trib. Sinnema- Smith of Allentown, who received his first honing Creek; Hicks Run, trib. Bennetts lesson a few weeks ago in the art of an­ Br.; Cooks Creek, trib. Driftwood Creek. gling at the boys' pool, Allentown, and jus­ Carbon County—BROWN TROUT: Poho- tified all the hopes for a brilliant future poco Creek or Big Creek. FINGERLING in the sport by catching six large sunfish, BROOK TROUT: Bisbine Creek, trib. Le­ repeating the next fishing day by landing high River; Hayes Creek, trib. Lehigh four. His tutor was George Zimmerman, River; Penn Lake, trib. Lehigh River. secretary of the Lehigh County Fish and Centre County—BROOK TROUT: Six Game Protective Association. Mile Run; Spring Bald Creek. BROWN TROUT: Spring Creek. RAINBOW TROUT: Spring Creek. Creek; Pine Run, trib. Lehigh River; Bull Chester County—BROOK TROUT: Val­ Run, trib. Lehigh River; Mays Run, trib. ley Creek, White Clay Creek. BROWN Lehigh River; Wrights Creek, trib. Lehigh TROUT: White Clay Creek. RAINBOW River; Panther Run, trib. Nescopeck Creek; TROUT: Officers Run; E. Br. Octoraro C. H. Kirk displays that Big Spring brown Oley Creek, trib. Nescopeck Creek; St. Creek. Johns Creek, trib. Nescopeck Creek; Long Clarion County—BROOK TROUT: Mill Run, trib. Nescopeck Creek. There are plenty of readers of this maga­ or Big Mill Creek. RAINBOW TROUT: McKean County—BROOK TROUT: W. zine who share the sentiment of C. H. Kirk, Deer Creek; Mill or Big Mill Creek. Clarion Creek; Seven Mile Run; Kinzua New Cumberland, regarding the taking of Creek; Chappel Forks. RAINBOW TROUT: a really big trout. And Angler Kirk cer­ Clearfield County — FINGERLING Portage Creek. tainly made his ambition come true in a big BROWN TROUT: Mosquito Creek, trib. way during the past season. We quote his W. Br. Susq. River. Mercer County—-BROOK TROUT: Lack- account of the catch: Clinton County—BROOK TROUT: Ket­ awannack Creek; E. Br. Wolf Creek; N. Br. Wolf Creek. "I have often said while out trout fish­ tle Creek. ing that I would just once like to get a Crawford County—BROWN TROUT: Lt. Mifflin County—BROWN TROUT: Kish- trout that would not lay down in the bot­ Sugar Creek; Thompson Run. acoquillas or W. Br. Kishacoquillas. FIN­ tom of my 16-inch creel or at least one Cumberland County—BROWN TROUT: GERLING BROWN TROUT: Strobes Run, that would reach from end to end. Yellow Breeches Creek. trib. Juniata River; Weeber Stream or Long "Well, on June 21, at Big Spring, New- Elk County — FINGERLING BROWN Meadow Stream, trib. Jacks Creek; W. Br. ville, I did better than I had dreamed— TROUT: Medix Run, trib. Bennetts Br.; getting a 22-inch brown trout, 3 pounds 14 Kersey Run, trib. Bennetts Br. ounces—a buck and a fighter. He fell for a Erie County — RAINBOW TROUT: S. big fat worm, and his tail came up past the Br. French Creek. top of the creel." Franklin County—-BROWN TROUT: W. Br. Conococheague Creek. Huntingdon County—F INGERLING 146,080 TROUT STOCKED RAINBOW TROUT: Dark Hollow, trib. Juniata River; Old Woman's Run, trib. FROM HATCHERIES IN JULY Aughwick Creek; Sugar Run, trib. Juniata Brook trout, brown trout and rainbow River; Licking Creek, trib. Juniata River; trout, ranging in size from fingerling to Black Log Run, trib. Aughwick Creek; adult, were stocked by the Fish Commission Shaffersville Creek, trib. Juniata River; during July. Included in the distribution Fox Hollow Run, trib. Juniata River. were 39,800 brook trout fingerlings, 36,800 brown trout fingerlings, 24,000 rainbow Juniata County—FINGERLING BROWN trout fingerlings, 19,069 brook trout from 8 TROUT: Cedar Run, trib. Doe Run; East to 12 inches* in length, 15,386 brown trout Run, trib. Doe Run; Doe Run, trib. Juniata from 8 to 12 inches in length, and 11,025 River; Lick Run, trib. Lost Creek; Lt. Lost rainbow trout from 8 to 18 inches in length. Creek, trib. Lost Creek. FINGERLING RAINBOW TROUT: Lost Creek, trib. Juni­ Following were the waters stocked in the ata River; Willow Run, trib. Tuscarora various counties: Creek. Allegheny County—CARP: Panther Hol­ low Lake. Lawrence County—BROWN TROUT: Lt. Bedford County — RAINBOW TROUT: Neshannock Creek. Thomas W. Koon Lake. Luzerne County — FINGERLING Berks County—BROOK TROUT: North- BROOK TROUT: Becks Creek, trib. Nes- kill Creek, Indian Creek. copeck Creek; Douglas Creek, trib. Dyberry Schuylkill sportsmen help stock trout PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 17

Kishacoquillas Creek, trib. Kishacoquillas Creek. Northampton County—BROWN TROUT: Bushkill Creek; Hokendauqua Creek. RAIN­ BOW TROUT: Bushkill Creek. Perry County — FINGERLING RAIN­ BOW TROUT: Kansas Run, trib. Horse Valley Run; Horse Valley Run, trib. Tus- carora Creek. Potter County—BROOK TROUT: Lyman Run; Genesee Fork Pine Creek; Eleven Mile Creek; S. Fork or First Fork or S. Woods; W. Br. Portage or Cowley Run; E. Fork of First Fork; Big Moore Run. RAINBOW TROUT: Middle Br. or Gold Br.; Genesee River or Luddington Br.; El- Question: What are the regulations con­ thought of stocking it with bass f 1 they can lisburg Br. or W. Br. Genesee. cerning the number of hooks permitted on be secured. Would this be advisable? J. B. Schuylkill County — BROWN TROUT: plug baits? E. R. A.: It is perhaps not exaggerating to say Lt. Catawissa Creek. Answer: The Board of Fish Commission­ that more bodies of water of the size you Snyder County—BROWN TROUT: N. mention have been seriously injured or Br. Middle Creek. ers has ruled that three burrs of hooks, each burr to have not more than three points, are ruined by stocking with voracious species of Somerset County—BROOK TROUT: S. permitted for use on a plug bait. To quote fish life such as the bass than by any other Fork Ben Creek. BROWN TROUT: Laurel the ruling: "Until further notice the Board method. The toll taken upon noc only the Hill Creek. of Fish Commissioners will consider a burr forage fishes but other species by the bass Susquehanna County — FINGERLING of three points as one hook, thereby per­ is tremendous, and in such a limited water BROOK TROUT: Coles Creek, trib. Lack­ mitting the use of the plug bait with three area, these game fish, having reduced the awanna River; Egypt Creek, trib. Susq. burrs of three points each." population of oth"r species, revert to can­ River; Canawacta Creek, trib. Susq. River; nibalism. The inevitable result must be poor Hemlock Creek, trib. Starrucca Creek; Q.: Is there any muskellunge fishing to fishing, not only for bass but for the other Meshoppen Creek, trib. Susq. River; speak of in Pennsylvania? What lures are species. Stevens Creek, trib. Wyallusing Creek; E. considered good for these fish? A. L. Rush Creek, trib. Wyallusing Creek; Bal- A.: Pennsylvania's muskellunge fishing is lantine Creek, trib. Meshoppen Creek; Fall limited to a few lakes and streams in north­ CUMBERLAND COUNTY Brook, trib. Snake Creek; Carlin Feeder for western Pennsylvania including Lake Le- White Br. Meshoppen Creek. Boeuf and Edinboro Lake in Erie county, FIELD DAY SUCCESS Venango County—BROOK TROUT: Lt. French Creek in Crawford, Erie and Ve­ Sportsmen from a number of central or N. Sandy Creek; S. Br. or N. Sandy nango counties, the upper Allegheny River, Pennsylvania counties attended the big field Creek; S. Br. Sandy Creek; E. Sandy and Conneaut Lake in Crawford county. In day staged at Hempt's Meadow along the Creek; Cherry Run. fishing for muskies, some success is had in Yellow Breeches Creek, Cumberland county, Warren County — RAINBOW TROUT: plug casting, but the old time method is to by the New Cumberland and Mechanicsburg N. E. Br. Spring Creek. BROOK TROUT: troll slowly with a large bait, usually a Sportsmen's Associations on August 14. Four Mile Creek. sucker of from 10 to 14 inches. After the More than 2000 sportsmen and their guests Wayne County—FINGERLING BROOK muskie has struck, considerable time must enjoyed the day in which bait casting, fly TROUT: Cramer Creek, trib. Dyberry be given to let it masticate the lure* some­ casting (accuracy and distance in both Creek; Swamp Brook, trib. Lackawaxen times periods of from twenty minutes to events) rifle and shotgun shooting, the for­ River; Deck or Kimples Brook, trib. Lack­ half an hour being required. The record mer at running deer, rising bear, running awaxen River; Outlet or Beach Lake, trib. muskie for Pennsylvania was taken in Con­ rabbit and climbing squirrel targets, were Mast Hope Creek; Adams Brook, trib. Lt. neaut Lake. It weighed 59 pounds. features. Dyberry Creek; Mange Creek, trib. Lack­ Q.: In casting plugs and lighter lures for Keen competition developed in the bait awaxen Creek; Half Way House Brook, game fish, is it wise to let the lure sink be­ casting for distance, "Buzz" Miller of New trib. Lackawaxen Creek; Buttermilk Falls fore retrieving? I. A. L. Cumberland carrying off this event with an Creek, trib. Dyberry Creek; N. Br. Mast average of 164 feet for three casts. Hope Creek, trib. Delaware River. A.: In casting for wall-eyed pike, you must go down deep, and retrieve the lure These live-wire sportsmen's associations W estmor eland County—B R O W N very slowly to make it most effective. One put over one of the finest field days to be TROUT: Linn Run. of the most important points in this kind held in central Pennsylvania sports annals, Wyoming County — FINGERLING of fishing is to obtain an intimate knowledge and an even larger turnout for sportsmen BROOK TROUT: Lott Brook, trib. S. Br. of the pool in which you are fishing. Know­ is anticipated next year. Mehoopany Creek; Summers Brook, trib. S. ing the ledges and other possible lodging Br. Mehoopany Creek; Cedar Run, trib. places for the plug is mighty important Bowmans Creek; Stony Brook, trib. S, Br. unless you have a good supply of plugs or Mehoopany Creek; Becker Brook, trib. S. don't mind diving into from 10 to 20 feet of PICKEREL CATCHES Br. Mehoopany Creek; Riley Br. Meshoppen water after you are fast. When it comes Warden Frank Brink, of Milford, Pike Creek, trib. Meshoppen Creek; Jennings to deadly efficiency with light casting lures, county, reports excellent fishing for pickerel Creek, trib. Meshoppen Creek; Reynold we have still to find a smoother fisherman in that section of the state, famous for its Spring Run, trib. Br. Meshoppen Creek. than Charlie Fox. Charlie makes his cast lakes. One of the finest catches to be re­ and by an upward twitch of the rod as the ported was that of Mr. and Mrs. R. Feik of lure nears the end of its downward arc Strausstown. Trying their luck in Peck's causes the bait to splat into the water with Lake, they caught 9 pickerel, the largest 26 SHORE ACRES MEET the least noticeable splash. And, most im­ inches in length and the smallest 18 inches. WELL ATTENDED portant, he starts that lure into swift mo­ Captain Allard, of the U. S. Navy, fishing tion on the instant it strikes the surface. with Everett Wolfe, of Milford, in Sawkill The Consolidated Sportsmen of Lycoming Of course, accuracy in casting, being able Pond on July 13, caught 17 pickerel, the County staged their giant field day and an­ to place your lure just where you see min­ smallest 16 inches in length and the largest nual meeting at Shore Acres on the Loyal- s nows skimming over the water ahead of a 26 inches. ock Creek. Bait casting, fly casting, trap hungry bass is another asset to taking nice *nd rifle shooting, the latter at moving deer fish. and bear targets featured some of the Small Boy: ".What is college bred, pop?" eVents, in which there were many entries. Q.: I know of a small pond of about an Pop (with older son in college): "They Between 2000 and 3000 sportsmen at­ acre, simply swarming with minnows, stm- make college bread, my boy, from the flour tended the meet. fish and catfish. Some friends and myself of youth and the dough of old age." 18 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER SPORT FISHING— A BIG INDUSTRY ANNUAL TROUT CATCHES AT SPRING CREEK PROJECT According to Frank T. Bell, U. S. Com­ missioner of Fisheries, Department of Com­ merce, the anglers in the United States put into circulation during the past year an es­ timated total of approximately $500,000,- 000, or an average of $50 per angler. The angler is traveling more and spend­ ing more than in 1933 when it was esti­ mated they spent approximately $115,295,- 370. He is buying more and better equip­ ment than he did then. The licensed angler in the United States in 1932-33 paid an average of $1.39 for fishing licenses, and in 1934-35, $1.36, ac­ cording to Commissioner Bell. An average of less than three per cent, of his total ex­ penditures went for fishing licenses, and ninety-seven per cerTt. plus was shared by the outdoor fitters, the transportation com­ panies (rail, air and water), the distribu­ tors of gasoline, oil and motor supplies, guides, boat captains, fishing tackle dealers, hotels and innkeepers. The sportsmen of California spent $63,- 000,000 in that state in 1936; an average expenditure of $116.80 by the angler. In Utah the anglers spent $3,000,000 whipping mountain streams of that State. Visiting- Fair angler scores in Ladies Pool at Spring Creek Project fishermen and hunters bring into the State of New Hampshire an annual income of ap­ The Fish Commission's famous Spring Creek Project, located near Beliefonte, proximately $6,000,000, while New York en­ Centre county, has, in the four years since its opening, attracted an increasing num­ thusiasts of field and stream spend $47,- ber of trout fishermen. Following are figures compiled as to catches, average weight 000,000 annually, and about $2,000,000 is of trout taken, number of trout killed, number released, and number of men and spent annually in that State on fishing women participating in the sport: tackle alone. Michigan accepts recreation MAY 11, 11)37 — JULY 10, 1037 as its third largest industry. Number of pounds of fish killed 3,921 Number of ounces of fish killed 63.744 Total length of fish killed in inches 52,074 Total length of fish killed in feet 4,339 Total number killed 4,027 Total number caught 9,335 Total number of fishermen 9,123 Number of fish caught by women 1,488 Number of fish caught by men 7,847 Average weight of fish killed 15.82 oz. Average length of fish killed 12.93 in. 1036 Number of pounds of fish killed 2,510 Number of ounces of fish killed 40,181 Total length of fish killed in inches 34,435 Total length of fish killed in feet 2,859 Total number killed 2,663 Total number caught 8,467 Total number of fishermen 6,513 Number of flsh caught by women 1,028 Number of fish caught by men 7,439 Average weight of fish killed 15.08 oz. Average length of fish killed 12.90 in. 1935 Number of pounds of fish killed 2,759 Number of ounces of flsh killed 44,151 Total length of flsh killed in inches 39,530 Total length of flsh killed in feet 3,294 Total number killed 3.247 Total number caught 8,457 Total number of fishermen 3,265 Number of flsh caught by women 937 Number of flsh caught by men 7,427 Average weight of fish killed 13.60 oz. Average length of flsh killed 12.10 in. 1034 Number of pounds of fish killed 1,359 Number of ounces of fish killed 21,753 Total length of flsh killed in inches 26,697 Total length of flsh killed in feet 2,225 Total number killed 2.472 Total number caught 5.907 Total number of fishermen 2,952 Number of flsh caught by women 1,178 Number of fish caught by men 4,729 Plugging accounted for these bass in Deer Lake, Average weight of flsh killed 8.8 oz- Schuylkill County. Largest, 20 inches. Joe Rice, of Average length of flsh killed 10.8 in. Pinedale, caught two smallmouths on one cast PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 19 WHY GO TO CANADA TO FISH? TOWANDIANS ASK AFTER THEY SPEND THREE HOURS ON RIVER (NOTE: Yellow bass referred to in this article are pike perch or wall-eyed pike.) ND some people go to Canada to catch black bass! ALast Saturday morning, a Towanda couple who the week previous had caught 10 black bass of moderate size between the hours of 1 and 6 in the afternoon, ven­ ' tured forth to see if their luck was still good. They drove 10 miles from here to what is known as Miller's Pool, that por­ tion of the Susquehanna river adjacent to the E. M. Miller farm in French Asylum, arriving at their destination at about 6:30 o'clock. In 15 minutes they were on the water, just as the sun was beginning to break through the heavy banks of fog hanging over the river, and from then until Early Spring sucker fishing on Jordan Creek, Lehigh County three hours later almost to a minute, they enjoyed bass fishing such as no sportsman, the yellow bass been put on the stringer were quieter, the traffic was light—and the however far he has traveled in search of before Margaret got another strike. "I've fish were still biting. fine catches, would spurn. got a big one," she yelled and started pull­ It would be too dull to go into further The bait that was used was what is gen­ ing. In a short time, a nice black bass came details concerning this fishing expedition. erally known hereabouts as little bullheads, flopping up the side of the boat—hooked Down in Kerrick's, the Towanda pair or "stone catties"; the equipment ordinary through the stomach. Outlandish luck? Of caught 11 more fish—one of them a small —nothing fancy. A short time after the course, but even Canada can't do better yellow bass and the others black bass, one two had started fishing, say four or five than that. The hook had pierced the bass of which was another two-pounder and two minutes, one of them got a strike. The fish in the thin white skin of its belly, and since so close to the two-pound mark that they hit so savagely the bait was literally it was pulled in sideways, the drag on the might well be pardoned for saying that the twisted off the hook. Baiting up again, the line was much heavier than had it come in fish actually weighed 32 ounces each. At fisherman tossed his line back in the water the ordinary way. 10:15, their bait gone, the excitement of and settled down for another wait. It was catching fish satiated, the two started back not long before his line started up the river By the time a fourth fish had been added home—their progress the mile up the river in sudden jerks. After the fish had run a to the string, three boats loaded with fish­ that they traveled a procession of triumph, bit, it was hooked and reeled in, proving ermen had gathered around to watch the with a fisherman after fisherman, from to be a black bass which was later found fun. This crowded things up a bit, so the "Skeeter" of Williamsport to "Van" of to weigh an even two pounds. Not long Towandians drifted gently down the river, Troy, marvelling at the catch. Quoth after that, the lady of the party (shall we through the rifts and into the long stretch "Skeeter", "Those two can catch fish if call her Margaret?) hooked and landed a of water just above the Hornet's Ferry club there are any fish to be caught. Drifting, yellow bass 18 inches in length. Hardly had house known as Kerrick's pool. Here things that's what they do, drift. They know where they are and they go after them. I've seen it before. And here I sit anchored with two heavy women in my boat, I can't row around." Bass fishermen hereabouts will sympa­ thize with the Towandians who picked up that catch—hardly a fish of the 15 weigh­ ing less than a pound and four of them two pounds or very close to it. It didn't take all day to catch them — just three hours. No long trip to a Canadian lake, with the attendant expense, was necessary to catch them. Lucky? Of course they were. But the fish were there to be caught, thanks to God Almighty and the Pennsylvania Fish Commission. Yet some people go to Canada to catch black bass. What for? The ride, of course. —Towanda Daily Review

FIELD DAY The Delaware County Chapter of the Izaak Walton League is laying plans for its ninth annual field day to be held on the Marr Meadows, Ridley Creek, near Media, Saturday, September 18. Events include large and small bore rifle shooting, pistol Four Trout taken in Locust Creek, Schuylkill County by Rev. L. B. Lutz, of Mahanoy City. Largest shooting, trap shooting, bait and fly casting, brown trout, length 2l'/2 inches, weight 3'/2 pounds archery, and 'coon hound trials. 20 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER

A ,.j HERE ND THERE 'N ANGLERDOM

We're still receiving reports of trout fingerling brown trout for the pool. "I am catches in Centre county during the past glad to report," writes Lord, "that these season from Warden Dave Dahlgren of trout are in first class condition and are Philipsburg. On the first day of trout sea­ being fed twice daily. We are now erecting son, April 15, Theobert Ahlberg, of Lanse, our second pool to take care of these rapidly scored with a catch of four brook, two growing trout. Officers and directors of the browns and seven rainbows on the Black club are Walker Hoffman, president; Joe Moshannon Creek. They ranged in size from Hunsinger, vice president; Carlton Rhoads, 8 to 14 inches. A. E. Ramey, of Blue Ball, treasurer; Dr. H. B. Painter, John North opened the season with a catch of eight and L. Paul Bernord, directors. rainbows and two brown trout on the Black Moshannon, the fish ranging in size from 9 Word comes from Sam Horst, secretary to 12 inches. Six brook trout, from 8 to 10 of the Perkiomen Valley Sportsmen's As­ inches in length, were taken by Bernard sociation at Schwenksville that the associa­ Dolan of Nittany on Roaring Run on April tion is sponsoring again this year a cam­ 18. paign for predator control and a big fish contest for members. Prizes will be awarded in each contest. Twenty-five points will be While fishing in French Creek at Venango given for each snapping turtle killed and on July 22, James Acker, of Venango, made five points for each watersnake tail turned a fine catch of 10 bass. Using crayfish for in. In the fishing contest, prizes will be bait, he scored this catch in two hours, from awarded for the largest smallmouthed bass, 10 A. M. to 12 noon, to be exact. Nice fish­ largemouthed bass, trout, pickerel, carp and ing out that way. catfish entered. Junior members are staging a contest in which the largest sunfish en­ And here are more reports of trout tered will determine the winner. catches from northeastern Pennsylvania waters, received from Warden Myron Shoe­ Warden Harry Moore, of Hopewell, Bed­ maker, of Laceyville, Wyoming county. Bill Lefevre, of Tarentum, with a catch of bass ford county, reported some fine catches of Howard Rogers, 14 years old, of Forks- made in the lower Allegheny at Clinton, only 30 trout from Bedford waters during the ton, caught a brown trout in the north miles above Pittsburgh spring. Elmer Latta, of Somerset, scored branch of Mehoopany Creek that measured with a 20 inch rainbow having a girth of 21 inches in length. Thirteen brook and and since that time has been endeavoring, 10% inches, on Lake Koon. It was taken on brown trout were taken during a morning's in every way possible, to better fishing and a fly. A 23 inch brown trout was caught on fishing on Schrader Creek by Merle Apgar, hunting. Recently a rearing pool for fish Cove Creek by Rev. Shannon. John Griffith, of Towanda. He made the catch on flies. was constructed on the premises of Henry of Jerome, Somerset county, caught a 25 Isham Cox, of Towanda, scored with seven M. Willets at White Bear. The Fish Com­ inch rainbow trout in Lake Koon on live nice browns and brookies on the same mission then furnished the club with 5000 bait. stream, while W. W. Jennings, Towanda, caught 15 trout in two hours on the Schrader one day in May.

Many sportsmen, friends of Calvin C. Hoover, 87, of Windber, mourn the passing of this veteran outdoorsman during the Bpring. Fishing was a favorite pastime with Calvin Hoover, who made his last fishing trip during late autumn last year. During 1936, we are informed by Harold Holsinge of Windber, Mr. Hoover traveled more than 2400 miles to reach pet fishing streams. The Raystown Branch of the Juniata was his favorite. He was born at Fishertown, Bed­ ford county, on July 29, 1859, and moved to Windber 30 years ago. Surviving him are his wife, tw<* daughters and five sons. In­ terment was made in Rummel Cemetery.

The Birdsboro Sportsmen's Club, Inc., of Birdsboro, with 325 active members, has been doing fine work in improving fishing and hunting conditions in Berks county, according to word received from Walter Lord, Secretary. This forward-looking as­ Mr. and Mrs. R. Feik, Strausstown, with a fine catch of pickerel from Peck's Lake or Pond, sociation was granted a charter in 1933 Pike County (Photo by Wm. C. Grimm, Piitsbuigh) "Got Him That Time, By Golly!" Sec. 562, P. L & R. U. S. POSTAGE PAID Harrisburg, Pa. Permit No. 270

Just to Remind You September is an Ace Month For Watersnake Control

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