TNNSYLVMIA AUGUST. 1973 Keystone State's Official FISHING* BOATING Magazine... ^ 25c Si agl*- Single Copy THE NATURE OF FISHING
r I "'here are many highly competitive and commercialized fishing tournaments being wide- -•- lv and increasingly organized and promoted specifically aimed at the relatively limited sup plies of predator game fishes, such as the largemouth bass, particularly in the southern states. These game fishes play an essential natural role in helping to control the excessive production and stunting of bluegills and other prey panfishes which in turn support the vast majority of rec reational fisheries nationwide—including the vitally significant family fishing activities.
For many centuries, angling has been regarded as "the gentle art" while serving usefully during many recent decades as the foremost form of contemplative outdoor recreation, and widely recom mended by health authorities as a tension relaxer for the rejuvenating of the spirit of Man.
A wave of criticism from the public has encouraged a trend toward the voluntary release of tournament-caught fish. Still, the philosophy of these highly organized competitive tournaments (for the benefit of a few) remains in significant conflict with the contemplative philosophy of rec reational fishing for the benefit of the general public. In fact, uncontrolled tournament angling may well prove to be at odds to the broad public interest as it will tend to curtail contemplative recreational fishing opportunities for the general public.
While the spread of highly organized tournaments has not had any serious effect in Pennsylva nia, we believe that as the fish conservation agency for the Commonwealth it is our duty to close ly monitor and evaluate all such tournaments. Related research is needed in order to develop biologically sound regulations designed to preclude adverse impact upon the fishing opportunities for the millions of anglers who continue to look to recreational fishing for contemplative purposes —as well as for rewarding catches.
RALPH W. ABELE Executive Director ^EMBERS OF THE COMMISSION PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER "OMVARD H. HEINY, President . Williamspori Q£ RARD J. ADAMS Hawley Pennsylvania's Official Fishing and Boating Magazine CLARENCE DIETZ Bedford ***» GUAGLIANONE Johnsonburg Published Monthly by the "^LIAM O. HILL Erie PENNSYLVANIA FISH COMMISSION ^VIK J. KEHN Whilehall COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA IlASK E. MASLAND, JR Carlisle ^**ES J. STUMPF Laughliniown MILTON J. SHAPP, Governor ^UAM COX Elysburg
^gjJTIVE DIRECTOR Volume 42-No. 8 August, 1973 jMvV.Abele P ^TANT TO THE DIRECTOR CONTENTS P*d T. Hardie S'TROLLER Stinkhole Sturgeon of Presque Isle, by Edward D. Mentz 6 %aWT.Durkin feeO F INFORMATION Fishing Fancies, by George E. Dolnack, Jr 8 "lard T. Johns, Director Native-All The Way, by Paul D. Ropp 10 t^£AU OF FISHERIES &: ENGINEERING *ard R. Miller. P.E., Director When Conditions Are Right, by Theodore E. Kiffer 12 (Jj^EERlNG DIVISION E"*" F. Hobbs, P.E., Chief L* *rank, Assistant Chief Bantam-Size Trout Net, by Don Shiner 14 JURIES DIVISION bek"r D- Bradford, Chief Anchoring Properly, by Stan DuBas 16 f"° Graff, Assistant Chief T lteh^ PRODUCTION SECTION -°«. Chief Blue Trout, by Ed Pearce 19 VI*SVATER PRODUCTION SECTION Hood, Chief Train 'Em Young, A Safe Boating Tip 20 f^S^U OF WATERWAYS re • Charles E. Leising, Director STATEWIDE—2; FISHING OUTLOOK—3; LEAKY BOOTS—4; BOATING QUESTIONS & ANSWERS—21; k ENFORCEMENT DIVISION STREAM NOTES—24; ANGLER'S NOTEBOOK—26; KEYSTONE CAMPING—28; CO-OP NEWS—29; FISH
Kto*\ Buck, Chief TALES—30; TAKING A CLOSER LOOK—Inside, Back Cover. ^ m W. Manhart, Deputy Chief L ^CRAFT SAFETY DIVISION M arti JAMES F. YODER, Ed/for We s >>. Chief ^Porl, Marine Education Specialist dt P^^UjDF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES State Headquarters 3532 Walnut Street, Progress L • O'Brien, Director (Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1673, Harrisburg, Pa. 17120) Rl«n r^^ AID COORDINATOR Telephone Information 717-787-2579 C Reed FISH CULTURAL STATIONS — DIVISION OF FISHERIES
BELLEFONTE John Bair, Supt. UNESVILLE Tom L. Cltrk, Supt.
io RASTER: All 3579 forms to be returned OSWAYO D. Ray Merrlman, Supt. '"73 »f Pennsylvania Fish Commission, Box BENNER SPRINGS William Kennedy, Supt. K * «arrisburg, Pennsylvania 17120. BIG SPRING Wayne Weigle, Supt. (acting) PLEASANT MOUNT Charles Sanderson, Supt. b N i V S, NSYLVANIA ANGLER is published month- CORRY/UNION CITY LeRoy Sorenson, Supt. REYN0L0SDALE Zenas Bean, Supt. J'eet, I,Pennsylvania Fish Commission, 3532 Walnut a ar c r-J*.f* risburg, Pennsylvania. Subscription: One HUNTSDALE Ted Dingle, Jr., Supt. TIONESTA Charles Mann, Supt. (acting) "fy. SpU,°; three years—$5.00; 25 cents per single v c ;5'a p-P heck or money order payable to Pennsyl- WALNUT CREEK Neil Shea, Supt. 0? iv'
REGION I FRANKLIN REGION III SWEET VALLEY '671 Ssed • rla> lurttcii^ia ui uiusu auuns stiuuiu ue Norman W. Sickles, Supervisor Clair Fleeger, Supervisor 'h» • Ha • tne Pennsylvania Fish Commission, Box urg REGION II SOMERSET REGION IV ANNVELXE •Vn^en ! n anla1 ' FisPennsylvaniah . Copyright © 1973 By *>o CpX Commission. All rights reserved. Thomas Qualxers, Supervisor Miles Witt, Supervisor *"i Sri. Subscriptions received after the 5th of each PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER Hills Creek Lake, in Tioga County, Provides family fishing fun all summer long FISHING OUTLOOK By.. Stan Paulakovlch (*(V"Wr the last few years, all the definite stratifying, or layering, of nion, is generally too cold and lacks \y new dams and reservoirs that the water. Surface temperatures will enough dissolved oxygen for most have been, and are still being built, be in the mid-seventies and, as you fishes. Where dissolved oxygen con have opened a new avenue of fish go deeper, they decrease gradually tent in the hypolimnion remains ing for Pennsylvania anglers. Un and evenly until you reach a point high, the trout and salmon do uti fortunately, most of these fishermen 15 or 20 feet below the surface. lize this limitless region. The vastness have been accustomed to fishing in There, within a few feet, a noticeable, and the depth in this area make it streams, rivers, and shallow lakes. and sudden drop in temperature difficult to locate and catch fish dur As yet, they have not caught on to takes place. For the next 15 to 25 ing such periods. the tricks and techniques needed to feet, the temperature holds an almost A second factor in determining the consistently catch the fish in deep even range of 50 to 55 degrees. At success of a summer fishing trip is Waters. The tremendous fish popula the bottom of this layer, another in going out after fish that bite best tions in these bodies of water are quick drop in temperature is record now and are therefore more readily therefore far from being utilized to ed, and from this point down to the caught. Largemouth, smallmouth, the extent to which they should be." bottom, the water shows a variation bluegills, perch, crappie, rock bass, Don Neal, Warren sportswriter, of only 1 or 2 degrees—generally in and catfish fall into this category and said this at a recent meeting of the the mid-forties. these are the fish you should be go PENNSYLVANIA OUTDOOR WRITERS While all of our lakes do not strati ing after. held in Brookville. When you stop fy in this manner, the temperature Most fishermen dislike taking home and think this over, you begin to always varies from top to bottom. panfish from a fishing trip. But there realize just how true it is; especially And certain temperature ranges do are two good reasons for doing so. during a month like August. show much better results and po First, it's good for a lake to remove Beautiful, balmy, sun-shiny days tential in all our waters. an abundance of those medium-sized ^ith a gentle breeze rippling the sur In waters that do stratify, the up panfish that are too big to be taken face waters—seemingly all that is per portion is called the epilimnion. as food by the game fishes. Second, deeded for a perfect fishing trip. But, Here, temperatures are a little on and most important, they are deli ^though you know the fish are there, the warm side; oxygen content is cious eating. V°u can't get them to bite! And, even good, and the fish swim in and out The average angler is afraid to though you may release every fish of this level freely during their day tackle the job of filleting the pan 'hat you catch, the ultimate objective light feeding periods—and at night fish, figuring it's too difficult. There's ln any fishing trip is to catch fish. when things quiet down. nothing to it, a good sharp knife and Let's look at a few factors that de The mid portion of a stratified lake a "skinner" is all you need. In no termine where the fish should be and is called the thermoclime. This is the time at all you will be able to zip how you can increase your chances range that is occupied by 90 per cent away those mouth watering little fil °f hooking a few of them under such of the game fish for 90 per cent of lets from the rib cage and the fin c°nditions. the time when the lake is stratified. spines—without a trace of a bone. Early in the summer, as the wind Oxygen-rich waters and pleasing tem Dipped in batter and meal, then deep sPeeds decrease and the lengthening peratures attract all the species to fried, there is no more satisfying end sUn rays warm the surface waters, this zone. to a fishing trip. "tost big impoundments will show a The lower level, called the hypolim- continued on page 32 * U G U S T-l 9 7 3 3 FROM SWEDEN! back of the boat. This letter is to re-establish my 4. If the pictures are in actual subscription to Pennsylvania Angler, sequence, one of the men took the which lapsed during my temporary time to raise the motor. I hope it move to Sweden. wasn't the one who was fighting I hope to return to Pennsylvania the fish, and I also hope he didn't in 1974 and want to keep in touch do it one-handed while standing. with angling news through your mag 5. Then the final dangerous act is azine. ready to be performed in the 2nd photograph. The fish is going to be I had a chance to sample the local brought to net while both men are fishing here in southern Sweden this standing, both on the same side of fall. It is mostly private lakes as far the boat, and both leaning over the BAD LUCK BOBBER as trout is concerned. If one is for side. I am 15 years old. Enclosed is a tunate enough to belong to a club, true and interesting story of a day the fly fishing is good. Successful In that the Angler is "The Keystone in the life of a bobber. I think it public fishing in Pennsylvania de State's Official Fishing-Boating Maga might be interesting to some of your serves a tribute in my opinion. How zine," I think it should make a note readers. ever, northward in Norway and Lapp- that it doesn't approve of the prac Some people believe that bad luck, land the trout, grayling, and salmon tices shown in certain pictures even curses, and spells are dumb super fishing is supposed to be great and is though it printed the photographs to stitions. Well, here's a story for you. available to all. help illustrate an article. (Ed. note— See #1 below.) It all started when I went to Can- In the event you can mail to onsburg Lake, in Washington Coun Sweden, surface mail would be ac On page 31, lower right hand cor ty, with my fishing buddy Steve ceptable. ner is a picture of the "largest" 1314", Ciechalski and his grandfather. We Good luck and keep those moun 1!4 pound "perch" I have seen, while were fishing bottom for carp, but I tain and limestone streams unspoiled! the left corner has a picture of the wasn't getting any action, so I de I will especially miss Young Womans "smallest" 24" rainbow trout that has cided to break out my spin-fishing Creek and Falling Springs. been in "Fish Tales" (See #2 below.) Your April issue is another job well gear and bob for some bass. I chose BRANCH ELAM done. Keep up the great work. (See an old bobber I had found. On my Sweden first cast I was caught up on a lone #3 below) tree stump in the middle of the lake, FELIX A. VOLPE but after a while I finally shook it THEY LIKE IT- Norristown loose. On the second cast the bobber My wife and I enjoy your maga 1. You're right Felix, we could have— fell off, completely, into the lake. zine very much. I feel it is one of but we're always saying that and they're The current slowly brought it to the the finest because it deals with what still standing up in boats! Maybe, now shoreline. When it was within reach, we have right here in the state. Keep that you've said it, we'll have more be I held on to my friend's hand, and up the good work. lievers—besides, you put it so nicely! as I bent over to grab the bobber we RICHARD HORNFECK both fell into the lake. Well, we Indiana, Pa. 2. Nobody's perfect. thought it was enough for one day 3. For a while there you had us fooled! Ed. so we started for home, leaving the CAUGHT IN THE ACT! bobber. I am dropping you this line regard The following day Steve went to ing the pictures on page 18 of the GETTING IT the same spot to try his luck again, April issue of the Angler. It seems OFF HIS CHEST! he saw a man fishing in the spot you omitted the 3rd photograph in the I would like to comment on that where we fell in. He saw the man do series. It should show an empty boat! joker, George, who wrote in response ing something—he was trying to Those guys are really breaking the to the article "Weak Position?" in scoop up the bobber with the rod tip safe boating rules, let alone the the December, 1972 Angler. and in doing so he snapped off a common sense ones. The boat seems piece of his rod. To me he sounds like one of the to be a light car-topper, both in looks, many (who call themselves sports If you're ever fishing Canonsburg and in that it has oars in its oarlocks. men ) from his area of residence who Lake and you happen to see a small Some of the broken rules that I can follow along with the stocking trucks, oval red and white bobber just wait spot in the pictures are as follows: waders on, rod in hand and just wait ing to be used—pretend that you 1. Both men fishing standing up, ing until the first bucket of fish are never saw it. and both have rods in their hands. thrown into the water. These fellows MARK PRUSZENSKI 2. One man is fighting a fish while irk me to no end and are right where Pittsburgh standing. He even looks in an off- they want to fish. They never offer balanced position. He is standing to carry a bucket of fish or give a EXPECTS IT! with his lower body facing the side hand to help. I'll never forget one day Let's not be afraid to raise the cost of the boat, and his upper body when we were stocking the Loyalsock of the license. We expect the quality facing the stern. Creek and Waterways Patrolman of the fishing in Pa. kept up—keep up 3. Both men are not wearing life Frank Kann, Sullivan County, was the good work. Thanks. vests, which really come in handy there. He was telling me about one TONY MIRILOVICH if they go over-board in that fast time when he asked one of the stock Johnstown current which can be noticed in ing-truck followers to help, and re- 4 P E N N S YLVANIA ANGLEB ceived a reply of, "The H— with you! He, and others like him, deserve our to go away empty. I just like being a You are being paid to do that." Now cooperation and respect. part of the great place. I would like to I say that they are real sportsmen! If you will permit a plug; any se see more articles on fly fishing. I was One other time we were at the hole rious trout fisherman should join also up to the fish hatchery in Pleas at Barbours and I was on the truck TROUT UNLIMITED. This fine orga ant Mount and was pleased to see filling buckets and handing them nization is doing many volunteer proj all the fish and that was in the mid down; when I asked a big fellow to ects statewide to improve our fishing dle of the summer. I hope to major in take the bucket, I received the same and guard against the pollution and biology. Keep up the good work! I reply that Frank had gotten earlier! rape of our streams. would like to see more of Pennsyl Frank gave a big laugh and said, Keep up the fine work with OUR vania preserved. "See what I mean?" magazine—and don't delete the boat RAY UNDERHILL I have worked, without pay, for a ing articles. Princeton, New Jersey good number of years and have made A satisfied angler, many a trip with our Waterways JAMES E. COLLINS "PURITY"? Patrolmen here, Mr. James Lauer, Williamsport I have had the pleasure of receiv and several of his deputies from Ly ing your fine magazine for almost coming County, Frank Kann from MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE one year. During that time, I have Sullivan County, and others, and As a novice fisherman, I would been continually and singularly im find them to be the most concerned like to take this opportunity to thank pressed by the content, quality and Persons one would want to meet, be the Pennsylvania Fish Commission purity of your work. By purity, I ing very fair with the distribution for having such materials available mean this: your magazine does not of the fish. I have a % ton 4-wheel for fishermen. Would also like to ex editorialize against the loss of our drive truck I use and where the fish press our appreciation for last season precious wilderness, and then run truck cannot get into, we haul the to your Waterways Patrolman in articles and advertising for snowmo fish into the stream with cans. My Bartonsville, Pa. His cooperation and biles and all-terrain-vehicles in the gripe is that they should not adver assistance indeed made our first fish same issue. Refreshingly, you and tise the stocking in mid-season. When ing experience a memorable one. your staff are able to focus upon we stock here, there are at least fifty higher goals than the pursuit of the MR. & MRS. JAMES L. KILLGORE ears following the fish truck when we Danville dollar. start out, and by the time we get Also, I especially enjoy the mes to the end of the line, we have no His name is Walter J. Burkhart, look sages from the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, one—all of them are waiting until him up again next time you're in the whose words (especially those written their favorite hole has fish put into it. area. Ed. after the damage by Hurricane Our Waterways Patrolmen could get Agnes) were extremely interesting, enough help to stock without advertis LOOKING FOR MORE and very sobering. ing for these fish-hungry persons. I have been fishing the Allegheny Being from New York State, I am George sounds like one of these per River for four years now since my especially intrigued by your Water sons—can't help, follows the truck, father bought a cabin near Emlenton, ways Patrolmen. It is apparent that and doesn't know what a good job our Pa. I would like to thank you for the they are devoted to their jobs, and Waterways Patrolmen do. marvelous fishing which never seems people who I've talked to say that HALL E. SORTMAN to run out. I am a four citation holder they are indispensable mentors for Williamsport and hope to get more this coming the out-of-state angler. I would like K we might paraphrase something Lin year. Thank you. to close with a sincere wish for your coln said, Hall, "You can't PLEASE all JEFF CARLSON future good fortune. 'he people, all the time." Ed. Coulters DAVID J. LABIAK Buffalo, N. Y. MERE PITTANCE! "JUST AS GREEN!" For which we thank you! We hope I can't understand some of these you'll visit us and enjoy some of our fine In the March, 1973 editorial it was fishermen not wanting to read about Pointed out that a license increase fishing. Ed. w boats. I am a boat owner and have as necessary. I've always felt that fishing poles too, and I think my We THEY'RE THE GREATEST! in this state have some of the money is just as green as theirs. greatest fishing in the nation. The Keep the boat tips coming. I am looking forward to another •^ere pittance that we pay for this PAUL SMITH year's subscription of one of the Privilege is small compared to that Paoli greatest magazines ever published, Paid for enjoying other sports such the Pennsylvania Angler. The AN as bowling. I'd pay five times the new GLER and PENNSYLVANIA GAME NEWS fequested increase without a whim VISITOR are both great magazines and I hope per. Anyone who fishes as much as I I have been fishing in Pennsyl they both continue just the way they ^ appreciates what the Fish Commis vania for a year; we have a lot in are because they couldn't be any sion is trying to do to improve our lot. the Poconos. I have fished in your better! I would like to mention Waterways streams and lakes and my father and Keep up the good work. Patrolman James H. Lauer of Ly I are both impressed over the Mus- TOM KASPER coming Co. He has always been very kies. I once saw a Muskie in a park Dickson City "elpful with fishing reports through office and was impressed over the put the year and generally just being size. I have started fly fishing and We'll try, Tom, we'll try! Ed. Johnny on the spot" on all occasions. have fished in fly fishing only, only continued on page 23 A U G U S T-l 9 7 3 5 "Stinkhole Sturgeon" of Presque Isle be later sold as caviar. Then, the carcasses were left there to rot; hence the appellation of "Stinkhole" for and other related stories this area of the Peninsula remained for many years. An overpowering malodor could be detected east and west for a distance of 20 miles along the lake- front. This condition prevailed for many years. The city of Erie was badly affected if the winds were from the north or from the west. The fishermen finally dis covered that smoked sturgeon was a delicacy which By Edward D. Mentz the world craved more than the roe of the fish. To this day the odoriferous title of "Stinkhole" sticks when fishermen say they are going to fish in this area of the Peninsula, or Presque Isle, as it is known today. The history of Lake Erie Sturgeon is a story of wanton waste. In 1872 an Ichthyologist by the name of Milner reported that a fishing firm at Sandusky, Ohio was engaged in preparing smoked sturgeon and caviar and was using from 10,000 to 18,000 sturgeons a year. Before this firm began to utilize them, the local catch of sturgeon, which were al ways present in the pound nets, had been declared as C^O TINKHOLE STURGEON OF PRESQUE ISLE," of useless and were left on the banks of the lake to rot J3 course, is a misnomer, but how this shovel- after the roe had been extracted from the fish. nosed fish arrived at this ostentatious title is a story This was also the practice elsewhere on Lake Erie. in itself. But, suffice to say, before leaving this PENN Around Saginaw Bay they were piled on the shore to SYLVANIA STATE PARK at the neck, the motorist today decay, creating an offensive and overpowering odor. will pass the Administration Building located near When the value of the fish was finally recognized, STURGEON BAY. its decimation proceeded so rapidly that it soon be Upon stopping in this area of the Peninsula, the came scarce—and has been so, ever since. motorist, it is said, will detect a faint odor of decay However, sturgeon were still taken in pound nets as ing fish at this picturesque curve in the road. It is late as the year 1935 (today commercial fishermen now considered a lingering holdover of the time when not using pound nets are relying on seine nets in thousands of Lake Erie Sturgeon were brought up which sturgeon are not taken). The Fred C. Ralph on these Peninsula banks for removal of their roe, to Fisheries and the Roy C. Weindorf Fisheries have 6 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 4 Ralph Fishery employee uses his body to measure a Lake Erie Sturgeon, while two others ready another for "tightening" with a pipe wrench! taken, on the average, a sturgeon a week when the first year of fishing, sturgeon sold for 25 cents each. pound nets were employed during the thirties. Fred Those sturgeon were worthless, except for the eggs C. Ralph, Sr. relates that one day when they were for caviar and bladder; the bladder was made into emptying the pound nets he noticed a terrific com isinglass. Sturgeons were used by farmers to fertilize motion. Old Neptune must have prodded and stirred fields. There was no sale for sturgeon meat, and up the depths of Lake Erie with his piscatorial pitch there was no sale for fish, especially pike and perch. fork because a 240 pound (approximate) 7 foot, 6 White fish sold for four cents a pound. In those days inch sturgeon came into view! Old "shovelnose" was there were black sturgeons weighing up to two hun about done in, but we finally got it into the open tug dred and fifty pounds and gray sturgeons weighing boat and with much effort on the part of the crew up to two hundred pounds." fishermen, they dispatched it with a few well directed In his narrative Mr. Weindorf stated that his Dad blows above the eyes with a stout hickory club. would tell about fishing with sail boats. Fishing was Likewise, Roy Weindorf and George Crew took a very dangerous in those days. On one trip they en 60 to 70 pound sturgeon one week in 1935, which countered a storm and were only able to set half the gave them quite a tussle before it was landed into net when they were blown to shore. About a day later, fhe boat. Many of these sturgeons were brought in when they were able to reach the net, they had seven and put into smokehouses after being cut into sec ty-seven sturgeons in the half net. Sturgeons were tions. With its hickory smell, most taunting, tantaliz very heavy in those days. ing, and pleasing taste, sturgeon sold well to area The first two years, a man from Sandusky, Ohio c ustomers and elsewhere. instructed my Dad and Uncle how to make nets and The caviar that these fish produced was devoured set them. He also taught them how to make caviar. with relish by the customer trade at $2.00 per pound. After two years they were on their own." When sturgeons of illegal size were brought in alive, According to "Our Heritage of Fresh Water Fishes," they were shipped in tanks to the Corry Fish Hatch contained in "The Book of Fishes" and published by eries for possible propagation by the Pennsylvania the National Geographic Society, fresh water Lake Pish Commission. Sturgeon (Acipenser rubicindus) belongs to a re Upon interviewing Mr. Weindorf, in Lake City, he markable group of fishes, and they occur throughout tells this story in his own words: "My Dad, Mike the Northern Hemisphere, in North America. Some Weindorf, and his brother Fred, were the first fish species are confined to the lakes and streams, and ermen to use fish pound nets in the lower end of Lake others are anadromous, like the Pacific Salmon. Erie. My Dad was in the fishing business about 75 The sturgeons are fishes of ancient lineage, the Years ago and caught twelve to fifteen hundred stur species having been more numerous in former ages geons in the Spring run. The Fall was about the same. when they were more heavily armored with body *n those days, when a buck sturgeon was caught he scales. All sturgeons are at once distinguished by Was released to the water as worthless. During their continued on page 27 A U G U S T-l 9 7 3 by George E. Dolnack, Jr. illustrations— Nick Rosato PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER bread," I said. "It'll pick up the bone ike most fellows, I was a fisherman left work early to do some trout fish and carry it away when you swal J long before I became a married ing and, as it often happens, we L low." She did—but the bone didn't— man. And as I look back on my care were having so much fun that we because she couldn't swallow, and free days when I had no ties, I can't lost all track of time. When I arrived then she started to gag. help but think how simple a life I en home after a hamburger and a At that point I thought it would joyed! For a fisherman's existence whistle-wetter, the sun had been be best to get her to the doctor. A can become a lot more complex after down for more than a few hours and neighbor was enlisted to baby-sit and he's married. the doors to the house were locked. off we went. As soon as we walked To give you an idea of what 1 Pounding on them brought forth into the doctor's office the bone mys mean, I'd like to recount a few in no response from the inside and I teriously and miraculously dislodged cidents that have happened to me realized that I was locked out. Think itself. It cost me a fiver for a bottle since I've assumed greater responsi ing that perhaps something had hap of gargle for her throat! bilities as a husband and a father. pened to my wife, since she was a The drive home was somewhat When we were first married, I was new arrival in the country, I decided noisier than the drive to the doctor's working on a naval base in the West to try the screened windows. The screens were fastened from the in and I was over an hour late in keep side and I fumbled around all of ing my fishing date. them before succeeding in removing When I got to the lake, I ran out one from a bedroom window. on the dock with my tackle and I had no sooner started to climb in waved my arms at my partner who when a car sped up the road and was drifting around just off shore in screeched to a halt in the driveway. his boat. He figured something had Before I knew what was going on, I happened and waited for me. Good was illuminated by a spotlight and friends like that don't come easy and told not to move. he was understanding to my plight. You guessed it. My beloved had I gave him all the fish that I fallen asleep and didn't hear my caught that evening since I took an pounding because the door to the bed oath upon leaving the house not to room was closed. But she did hear me bring any more fish home until every ramming through the shrubs trying one learned to eat them properly. to get the bedroom windows open, Since then, everyone has. I've also thought an intruder was at work, and improved my filleting technique. called the police! Indies where we had some excellent What happened after they left is fishing from the docks. One night best left untold because some things fny wife tagged along to find out are better forgotten then remembered. what it was all about. When we got But two events took place not long to the dock, I baited her hook with afterwards. I had another house key half a frankfurter and gave her in made and then I moved out of the structions to pull up on the rod if neighborhood. she felt a tug in the opposite direc Sometimes I think they go to ex tion. tremes and have their own devious Then I went to the other end of methods to try and keep a fellow the dock, caught some baitfish that from going fishing. Were schooled up under a light and started fishing. We talked back and For instance, take the one evening forth and I paid her a visit occasion after work when I hurried home to a ally to see if she had any bites. She tasty supper of deep fried walleye and didn't. perch that I had caught earlier in the week and personally filleted. A couple of hours later, I picked up my catch of weakfish and snappers, I rushed through supper so I One thing I can say about my wife she pulled in her untouched frank could meet my partner at the ap is that she's game to try anything. furter and we left. I tried to explain pointed time on the lake, left my wife She went "smelting" with me one that it wasn't my fault if the fish at the table and then loaded the sta chilly night and we took along a didn't go for weiners and that I had tion wagon. As I was about to leave, cast iron skillet, some salt and pep eaten the other half earlier and found she appeared at the door leading to per, flavored flour, cooking oil, and it to be quite tasty. Then I volun the garage. Her mouth was moving paper bags. teered that maybe we should have but no sound was coming out. Then Since it was a nippy night, I built cooked it first. Right then and there she pointed to her throat and I told a fire on the shore but the cold was she decided that she had married her that I didn't have time to dally a little too much for her. The smoke someone who didn't have a full sea- around and interpret sign language. from the fire smarted her eyes and bag. After going through a series of ani caused them to tear so she decided to One incident that nearly wrecked mated gestures, she got the message return to the car for a while. my home life happened shortly after across. I couldn't believe it. She had The smelt were running and after I brought my bride back from the a fish bone stuck in her throat! I dipped several dozen, I was ready to islands to the land of the big PX. All I could think of was my part fry a batch. I put some cooking oil My stream fishing partner and I ner pulling them in. "Eat some continued on page 32 A U G U S T-l 9 7 3 9 Terrain and water varies . . . from one extreme . . . ob Logan, an alleged trout fish are just so many bridges. If poor old erman from Titusville, was in Isaac Walton had ever dreamed what Bgood voice at the Powderhorn. That's was going to happen, he wouldn't our local watering hole where all the have traded his plow for a fly rod!" anglers gather at day's end to discuss While Bob was ranting and raving, —and expand on—their catch. Let's I decided to slip out the back door. put it this way, more fish are caught With the audience he had, I knew my there than on any trout stream in departure would go unnoticed for an the world. This particular night Bob hour or two. He was wound up, but was in high gear with his lament had some good points, as far as he about trout fishing in Pennsylvania. went. However, that is just one part "This put-and-take stocking is for of Pennsylvania trout fishing—the the birds and each year it gets worse. seamier side which has elbow-to-el There are trout the first day after the bow people and bumper-to-bumper state stocks, then it's all over until cars, plus the litter, junk and debris the truck comes around again, fol that is always created when great lowed by "helpers" who fish the numbers of humans gather any trout out seconds after they are re where. leased." Actually, this only happens on a "Bait is different than it used to be. few days early in the season. The When I was a boy we dug angle rest of the year is not like that; and worms in the garden, or picked night- away from the bridges, it never is. crawlers by flashlight. Now, people Why not try fishing for native brook buy their bait at a supermarket! The trout and be sure to get away from day before yesterday I heard two fish people and clutter? Go to "Boon- ermen arguing that Del Monte dockville" and leave the bridges and canned corn was better than Libby's. roads behind. Seek out what is left of The disagreement stopped when a our wilderness. Enjoy the beauty, third guy interrupted to say Velveeta scenery, solitude, and brook trout. cheese was better than either. When The state is highly industrialized, but you see an "outdoorsman" shopping only in some regions. Other sections these days, you don't know if he is have forests, wilderness and clean buying groceries, or getting bait." water which has native and stream- "Not only that, but everyone wants bred trout. The trick is to find them. to be a bridge fisherman—and there The streams I look for have one PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER to another ... a new challenge always awaits the angler thing in common: all are remote, far ward the lower end. Some of these creeks are head from roads, and hard to reach. The Roads are the biggest enemy of waters of larger streams that may or water is cold and the brooks are natives. They produce silt and people may not be trout water in the lower capable of stocking themselves. They —two things native trout can't stand. section. Others are tributaries and are small and usually 100% spring- Silt covers the fish eggs and stops the usually trout streams all the way, not fed. Generally the stream is gorgeous. natural reproduction necessary for necessarily native all the way, how Each one is an individual and no survival. People bring pollution ever. The best fishing is usually two are the same. One roars through which destroys the clean, cold water found furthest from bridges and civ a forested ravine, wild with water vital to brook trout. Introduce a road ilization. Therefore, walking is al falls and rapids; another meanders and the stream is no longer remote. ways required. If possible, get it over in an upland plateau, complete with More people come and soon the with first by going to a maximum beaver dams and all forms of wild brookies are gone; they can't stand point from the car and fishing back. life. As they get bigger, and subject much fishing pressure. That way, the return walk is min to rain run-off, the water quality Native streams aren't stocked, ex imal and there is less chance of be changes. It gets warmer and polluted. cept, perhaps, in the lower portions. ing caught in the middle of nowhere Before long, it is no longer native When this happens, you have to out after dark. brook trout water. walk the other fishermen to get above The streams are small and some In some waters, stream-bred brown the "beer can line." This isn't too times hunting boots will suffice. Not trout are a bonus, but usually brook- hard because, as Bob stated, most always, however, especially when ies provide the sport. Last year I people don't move far from the beaver dams are in the area. It is found one with stream-bred rain bridges. There may be a path up best to use hip boots, but don't wade bows, a rarity in Penn's Woods, and stream and downstream from the unless absolutely necessary. Stay out how they got there is a mystery. Like bridge, but it always disappears after of the streams as much as possible. most of the native brook trout and a few hundred yards. If you see a fish, it means he has homegrown brownies, they weren't Part of my native trout fishing is seen you so stay as far back from the big—a ten inch fish was a lunker. done near home, in northwestern water as you can. Don't be afraid to They were beautiful, too pretty to de Pennsylvania. It is 100 miles north get on your hands and knees! Creep stroy, and I returned them to the of Pittsburgh and 40 miles south of up to a hole and present the lure as Water. Most of the streams have Erie—the streams are within 20 silently as possible. Bait is a matter brook trout in the upper reaches, and miles of home. I can fish them after of personal preference, but for most brown trout downstream. But, like work during the week and hit them small brooks, garden worms will the stream-bred rainbows, there are anytime on Saturday and Sunday. work best. always exceptions. One tributary to They are easy to reach—all it takes That is what to use, except in the Allegheny River has brown trout is some dirt road driving and a little some waters where minnows work ln the headwater and brook trout to walking. continued on page 22 A U G U S T-l 9 7 3 11 "When Conditions Are Right..." by Theodore Kiffer o begin with, every boy should led from the pasture and knock over and around winding the line; and Thave an uncle like my Uncle a buck. So he did—a sleek six-point, when he was through fishing, he sim Jake. Jake was a bachelor, a driller, and because he loathed such tasks ply cut the top couple of inches off, and in those dreamy days of the mid he stood beside the trail until another wrapped all the line around it, and dle thirties, a veteran of the first hunter came along who was willing stuck the hook into the end where it World War. So in those days, when to field dress the deer for him. rode safely until the next trip. veterans were more scarce than they But fishing, that's where he really How I used to beg him to take me are today, he was my hero. When he stood out. And to him the word fish fishing when he came home from his wasn't busy punching a string of meant just one species—brook trout, twelve-hour "tour" on the rig. For drilling tools into the Oriskany sand and natives at that. He didn't own three solid weeks one summer, I of northwestern Pennsylvania in any fancy equipment. In fact, his begged, I pleaded, I whined, I ca search of oil or gas, he found plenty entire outfit consisted of a piece of joled; but to no avail. His only re of time for hunting and fishing. Even salt-and-pepper braided line about sponse was that the fish wouldn't as a carefree boy, I envied my Uncle ten feet long, a couple of snelled bite, so there was no use going fish Jake, for he did as he pleased. hooks, size six or eight, and one of ing. I would have been happy to go, He was my hero because of his those old green telescoping Half-&- whether we caught fish or not, but job. What boy wouldn't like to swag Half tobacco cans to carry the hooks that wasn't Jake's way. ger around the slippery platform of and line in between trips and to car Then he was home for a week. The a walking-beam drilling rig? And, be ry the bait in while fishing. This bat other driller and the two tool-dressers cause of his war record—what boy of tered can rode in the pocket of his were moving the rig to a new loca those simple days didn't thrill to faded blue shirt all during trout sea tion and Jake took a vacation. We rough khaki and satin ribbons? Or, son; for when conditions were right, were hauling in hay—pitching the was it because he had killed a bear? Jake went fishing, and he wanted to hay onto the wagon, building the What longings that fact would cause be ready. load carefully, and hauling it to the to stir within my breast. But best of I almost forgot his rod. He used a barn in the hottest, driest July I can all, he was my hero because he could new one each time, generally a tag remember. The sweat lay in white do what he said. He never came alder that he cut and trimmed to a streaks along the horses' harness and home empty-handed. One year when springy seven or eight foot length. we were sweaty, hot, itching from the not many bucks were being shot, he He always left a little fork on the tip dust and chaff, when seemingly, out announced on the third or fourth day and tied the line at the juncture of of nowhere, big, black thunderclouds of the season that he guessed he the fork. He controlled the length of rolled across the sky. We just got the would mosey out along the ridge that the line by rolling the rod around last load into the barn when the 12 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER downpour started. For probably forty- at the worm, and got ready to fish. five minutes, the rain fell in torrents By this time I was almost in tears, until the barnyard was soaked and and had I been with anyone of less every hoofprint became a puddle. stature than my Uncle Jake, I would Just as quickly, the sky cleared and have expressed my feelings most the late afternoon sun shone spark clearly. I did mutter something about ling on the drenched grass and twigs. "no fish in there," but Jake didn't Jake reached into his shirt pocket, hear me or chose to ignore me. pulled out the Half-&-Half can, shook At the place where we stood, the out the dried end of his last rod and creek was perhaps thirty inches wide, said, "Dig some bait, we're going fish overhung with grasses and brush and ing." I fairly flew the hundred yards here and there a small pool under a to the woodshed yard and there un log or stump. Because of the run-off der the rotted chips of a hundred of the heavy downpour, the normally years of chopping and splitting, dug crystal water was about the color of out a canful of fat, wriggly earth skim milk, actually a dingy bluish- worms—the ones with the bluish white color. Jake said the water was tint to them. Jake never allowed me "riley" and just right for fishing. And to dig the red barnyard worms from then he made the biggest mistake of around the manure pile. He didn't all—he dropped that worm into a from a little, ignored, "Ashless" like them and said the trout didn't riffle about two inches deep and two stream. Strung on a peeled willow either. feet wide. And I saw my idol falling, switch, they made a sight to gladden I kept looking anxiously toward for there had been no trout in that a twelve year old's heart. his 1936 Ford coupe while wondering stretch of stream for a long time and There was one pool in the stream which of the magic streams we would especially not in that riffle. approximately eighteen inches deep, fish. East Hickory, Tionesta, West from which I had caught a few trout Hickory, Salmon—all fabled streams on past fishing trips by myself, but that I had never yet fished; but they were always little fellows five streams which were special, for even to six inches long. From that same then I had seen fly-fishermen casting pool, Jake took three of our beautiful to the great trout that lurked in their string. And I remember asking him pools. Thus I was crushed, absolutely where those fish were when I fished crushed, when Uncle Jake walked there. His only response was a smile. past the car and said, "Come on, we Years later, I visited Uncle Jake as can walk all the farther we're going." he lay in the hospital dreadfully ill, A half-mile into the weed-grown log and I asked him if he remembered ging road that led from the farm, I the evening when we caught the was soaked to the skin, and the wet trout. His eyes brightened with the ness multiplied my disappointment. memory and the old glow came brief Finally Jake stopped, cut a tag al ly again to his face, and he said, der, trimmed it, and started up a "They were real beauties, weren't skid road that paralleled a little trib they?" And then he added, "Remem utary brook that became almost dry ber this, when conditions are right, in summer weather. At a spot where Then I saw Jake tense as the wash you can catch them even where you the trail and the creek touched, Jake of the riffle pulled the worm under a know they aren't." tied his line to the alder switch and small cut bank. At the same moment, That has all been a long time ago, adjusted the length until about six I saw the alder pole begin to jump and I have spent many a day with feet hung free, put a fat worm on the and vibrate as Jake deftly pulled flies, spinners, plugs, and bait of all hook, spat a stream of tobacco juice back on the rod and slowly, delicate kinds in all seasons of the year. ly, worked the line through an open Sometimes I make good catches and ing in the brush and swung a gyrat sometimes I come home without a ing trout to the ground between my strike. And then I hear Uncle bare feet. In an instant I was on it, Jake's voice, "When conditions are and what a fish—a bright gleaming right. . . ." black and crimson and white shim I don't know if that little creek mering jewel of a brook trout, a na still runs milky after a summer tive, and twelve inches long. "Take storm or if it now runs yellow and him off the hook, there's another muddy like so many others; I don't one in there," said Jake, and sure know if the progeny of those wild enough there was. Only this one was trout still live under the hemlocks; eleven inches long. So we fished from but this coming summer after a riffle to riffle, from unlikely looking quick, sharp afternoon thunderstorm, spot to unlikely looking spot, and "when conditions are right," I intend when we stopped fishing as dusk to find out. Somehow, I have a feel thickened around us, Jake had eased ing that the trout will be there; and an even dozen of those beautiful in a real sense, then, Jake will be brookies, eleven to thirteen inches, there watching me this time. A U G U S T-l 9 7 3 13 .4&fr$K: \ Don't let its small size fool you! Here's proof that a converted badminton racquet can land husky bass or trout. Convert that old Badminton Racquet • _i_ a TTave an old badminton set or racquet stashed in • niO & J^-y the attic? Before it gets tossed out with trash, convert the racquet into a handy, pocket-size net for Bantam-Size Trout Net Most large trout nets are abominable things to drag along bushy streams because they're constantly get ting tangled in limbs. The advantage of a landing by Don Shiner net made from a badminton racquet is that its pocket- size, easily carried in your fishing vest, is ample for scooping up fighting rainbows or bass. Racquet frames are pre-drilled with string holes so there's no problem lacing-in a replacement net avail able at most sport shops. A small nail, with point filed flat, will help push net loops through holes in frame while a piece of enameled fly line or heavy monofilament is used for the lacing cord. The handle can be kept the original length of the racquet to gain the advantage offered by a longer handle. However, you will probably prefer cutting the handle length in half and sliding on a fly-rod cork grip. Add an eye-screw and elastic cord to the handle and the bantam size net is ready to go fishing. Landing nets are so inexpensive that one wonders why anyone would convert a badminton racquet into one. The smaller size is the reason. The converted racquet, with handle shortened somewhat, can easily be stowed in your pocket or tackle box. Get the youngsters to help make the pocket-size net. It will get them excited about going fishing too. PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER Above: A "busted" racquet can be restrung with a fish-net to become a handy landing net. Above, right: Obtain a replacement net, available at most sportshops and use a thin nail, with point filed flat, to help push net loops through holes in frame. Right: Lacing cord can be enameled fishing line or heavy monofilament. Below, left: Cut handle to half its original length. Below, right: Push and glue on fly rod cork-grip to remaining portion of handle. Anchoring your craft just offshore will prevent hull damage from wave action. Use two anchors—one off the bow, the other toward the shoreline. There's more to Anchoring Properly than meets the eye! ld habits are hard to break. We with Uncle Erp's rock, will show very witnessed a fisherman using a little progress prior to World War II. by Stan DuBas Ohalf of a cinder block on the Dela Until the mid-1930's, nearly all an ware River last summer in much the chors depended more on weight than same way his great, great Uncle Erp efficient hooking power. used a stone as an anchor, a way The rock anchor was improved by Photos by back when. adding crossed wooden "arms" which While a cinder block, or a few were tied to the bottom of the rock. bricks lashed together may work, for This resulted in an anchor that the author a few more cents a week there are wouldn't drag so much and greatly better and safer anchors available. resembled our modern day grapnel. A brief history of anchors starting The Vikings, Greeks, and Romans 16 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER Boats anchored in this fashion permit shallow water activities with no danger of the boat swinging about from the effects of wind or current. Used heavy anchors shaped much like Taking nearly all the votes for an slide back toward the crown and the a "ship's or kedge" anchor, only they "all purpose" anchor would be the anchor will usually be released. lacked the flattened flukes. A good Danforth type anchor. The size need The DANFORTH and BENSON also ttiany of these ancient warship an ed to safely hold even a rather large store flat in a relatively small space chors weighed over a thousand cruiser is indeed small and light in and are easily "swooshed" clear of Pounds. weight when compared to a compar mud before stowing. The SHIP'S, or old fashioned an able "weight" anchor such as a GRAPNELS are cumbersome anchors chor, was used as standard equip KEDGE, SHIP'S or NAVY anchor. with five curved arms extending from ment on U.S. Naval ships as late as It will be argued by some that the one end of the shank. An eye is usual 'he civil war. About this time, the Northhill anchor, comes close to be ly welded to the other end to tie to mushroom anchor appeared but was ing the "all-purpose". The Northhill a line. The exposed arms are usually Used mainly for moorings. is shaped much like the old KEDGE or sharp and are quite dangerous. The The "NAVY" or STOCKLESS ANCHOR SHIP'S anchor but the "stock" (a bar GRAPNELS' best use is on the ice or ^hich is still used on large ships, al across the top of the shank) has been when retrieving underwater objects. so became popular in the mid-1800's. moved to right angles and below the Other than mooring, the MUSH During the mid 1930's, the plow arms, thus making it a digging type ROOM is limited as an anchor to the and the lightweight type anchor were anchor. Still, one arm is exposed to small inflatables, prams, or possibly, Patented. The plow, as the name im the anchor line and it's very possible canoes. Some are cast of metal with a plies, looks much like a single point to foul the exposed arm and pull plastic coating to keep from marring farm plow but with the addition of the anchor from its Bold. a boat and some are hollow so that a pivoted shank. The lightweight type If underwater obstacles such as sand can be added to control the anchor was patented by Mr. R. S. rocks or fallen trees are common, an weight for different situations. Al ^anforth and it, or one of its many "improved" DANFORTH or BENSON an though it is still not much better than slightly different variations, is the chor is recommended over the stan "Erp's rock" as an anchor, a MUSH ^ost versatile of all the anchors. dard model. The improved DANFORTH ROOM anchor can be used to slow the Over fifty per cent of the pleasure has a shearpin that, when broken, rate of drift so that a body of water °oats in this country are under sev- will allow the shank of the anchor may be fished more thoroughly. e1teen feet and the average horse- to swing in the opposite direction If only a certain amount of line is Power engine is now close to 40. and be pulled away from the obstacle. let out, deeper water, or a ledge can We'll concentrate on this size range, The BENSON has a divided (or hol be located. Sort of a "poor man's ^though in general, the information low) shank with a sliding ring in it, depth finder." J*ill apply to all lengths of pleasure and, when stuck, merely reverse the The NAVY, or stockless anchor is °oats. pull on the anchor and the ring will used mostly on large vessels and the * U G U S T-l 9 7 3 17 Make certain that your cleats are bolted through the hull—screws may pull out under stress ... a good anchor, neatly stowed, ready for use- shank can be drawn right up into If so, have them replaced with thru end of the line and connected to the the hawse pipes. Although it doesn't bolts and a back-up plate on the anchor by a shackle is far superior foul easily, it's often difficult to set, underside. The small cost of doing and will help you present yourself and has a tendency to dig itself out. this, even if done at a marina, may as an "old salt" instead of someone It is also too heavy for small boat use. someday save an anchor and line, tying his shoes "double" just to make Again, no one anchor will serve all your boat, or even lives. sure. situations. Pick the type that will Ideally, two anchors should be car About the only other necessary ac suit most of your personal needs and ried aboard. One, should be the small cessory would be a length of chain remember its limitations. est size recommended for your boat. about five foot long. This will pre Equally important is the line that The other, should be near the largest vent the anchor line from chafing, is used and the way it is connected size recommended. get a light anchor to the bottom fast to the anchor. Nylon is preferred for The smaller anchor will be used er, and help the anchor hold better. many reasons. It can be stowed while nearly all the time. It will have ample If you use chain, attach it to the an wet and will not rot as will manila. holding power to be used as a "lunch chor shackle, your line to its other Nylon will also stretch, thereby hook", on the shore, or in any other end, using a metal thimble. having a built-in shock absorber situations. The exceptions will be Never heave an anchor like a cow which the polyethylenes do not. Poly storms, overnight anchoring, anchor boy trying to rope a steer. When let ropes will float however, and with the ing in strong currents, or on very ting it over the side, be sure the boat light-weight anchors, this is usually windy days, or if several boats are will not move or drift over the line undesirable. rafted together and yours is the lead, and chance the possibility of getting Boatmen often cancel out the bene or anchoring, boat. When these con the line fouled on the motor's lower fit of nylon stretching by using too ditions arise, the heavier, larger an unit or cut by the prop. A short re large a diameter of anchor line. For chor will be worth every penny it versing of the engine will show if any pleasure boat below 26 to 28 costs. the anchor has dug in. Only then, foot, % diameter, twisted, three- We previously stated that too large should the engine be shut off. strand nylon is sufficient. a diameter anchor line should be While leaving anchor line out, be More important is the scope—the avoided. Too small a diameter line sure none of it gets underfoot or distance between the anchor and the should also be avoided. Not because knotted. Even a simple twist knot will boat. (Ed. note: Recommended scope it would not be strong enough but reduce a line's strength by 50 per would be an anchor line that is 5 because a thin line is hard to handle cent. times as long as the water is deep for with bare hands, especially under a Anchors can be compared to choos fair weather boating. For heavy load. Ideal diameter would be about ing a wife—there are a lot of things weather, increase ratio to 7:1). Have 5/16 of an inch for the recommended to consider and just when you think solidly constructed fittings that are "small" anchor and % diameter for you've got things figured out, a nev*' thru-bolted to the boat's deck. We the storm anchor. situation arises. But unlike marriage, highly recommend checking the Connecting the anchor to the line you can have more than one anchor cleats and the anchor bit to see if is often done by tying the two to aboard to cover the different sit they are only fastened with screws. gether. A metal thimble spliced to one uations. 18 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLEB tt Blue Trout" by Ed Pearce et's face it. The majority of fresh streams ice-cold, and they were teem 8 tblsp. wine vine- 1 medium LJ water trout anglers are neither ing with the native German brown gar onion lucky enough nor sufficiently skilled trout. Juice of two chopped to bring home many fish over V/z I soon filled my creel and returned lemons 1 bch. celery Pounds or 14 inches long. Not that to the small gasthaus (hotel) where 2 qt. water hearts they don't try; they do, but more often I was staying; only to find that the 2 tsp. salt chopped than not they must be content with noon meal was over. The wife of the 2 bay leaves 8 fresh trout smaller trout. In most streams, the hotel owner graciously offered to 2 cloves (small) largest trout are just not there. The cook my trout, but warned me that I 6 peppercorns fisherman is still entitled to the best must accept her way of cooking. She Combine all ingredients, except ^eal he can get from what he does looked into my creel, selected only the c the trout, in a four-quart dutch oven atch; after all, they cost plenty in small trout and added that she hoped and bring to a boil. Simmer 30 min terms of time, effort and money. I would invite both she and her hus utes. Strain the mixture through Even as you, I have prepared all band to the meal. This I quickly cheesecloth. Bring the mixture again agreed to. sizes of trout cooked in many ways; to a boil, and drop in the trout. Sim tried, boiled, barbecued, steamed and She washed and dried a dozen mer, uncovered, until the trout turns sauteed. Some I liked, others I didn't. small, new potatoes, covered them blue and flakes easily. Remove from °ut since I've found still another with water in a pot, added a tea- the mixture, coat the trout with but way to prepare small trout, a new spoonful of salt and thyme, and put ter and serve with buttered boiled zest has been added to my fishing them on to boil. Seeing that the trout potatoes, hard-crusted bread and beer. trips. had been drawn, she dried them with The German hausfrau was right; I I now actually prefer to catch these a towel, snipped off the fins and laid now prefer this way of cooking small smaller trout. Here's why. them aside. She neither washed nor trout. scaled them. , While serving a tour in the Army Can you adapt it to field or camp lli West Germany, I fished for trout Here is her recipe. cooking? You bet you can. he ar Murnau, a small village nestled FORELLE BLAU (BLUE TROUT) It makes little difference whether at the foot of the Alps. The spring you have rainbow, brookies or browns, ru 1 cup white vine- 1 carrot n-off of melting snow made the gar chopped continued on page 32 A U G U S T-l 9 7 3 19 t BOATERS' "Train 'Em young 77 A good safety criterion to follow while boating is to have anyone under 12 years of age wear a Coast Guard Approved PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE. Non- swimmers, of any age, should always be protected by such a safety device. Ac cidents don't give any worning! It's just common sense to be prepared. Photo courtesy Bvinrude Motors. hildren are a special breed of that you are having fun, while trying ably look forward to even the most C people. They are constantly ac to never force the same fun on the routine chore such as stowing gear tive and never appear to run out of youngster. Probably wanting to take properly and keeping lines ship energy. When confined to a small en over the wheel, for example, it would shape. Launching, shoving-off and vironment, such as a boat, however, be a good experience as well as fun docking are areas in which you can the situation could become worse. for him to do so, even if it's for only assign appropriate responsibilities ac Boating is a family sport, though, and a little while. It's never too early to cording to your children's ages. Make some control must be exerted by the take the wheel, recommends the Evin- a child proud of his competence and parents to make the trip one that is rude News Service, as long as you he will be anxious to increase his safe and fun for all. will be there to supervise. expertise. Instead of being a strict discipli Teach your children the basic rules Seasonal boat maintenance is an narian, the parents, on the other of the road and also the common other area in which chores may be hand, must keep the children oc sense rules of boating. Once learned, delegated. In limited doses, of course, cupied so that they won't feel the the rules will be retained. When giv painting, polishing and lubricating urge to squirm and make themselves ing instructions, however, be sure to will instill pride in equipment and a problem. Besides making your day give explanations for each point you teach the child to respect property, more enjoyable, it might save you make. Your child will be more recep a respect which will be carried over to money, just in case the youngster tive to instruction if he knows "why." his regular everyday life. had any plans of throwing the bait Make a game out of learning the The most important thing to re bucket, for example, out of the boat. buoys and markers, or even the dif member is to never force a child to A family boating outing is a perfect ferent types of power and sailboats do anything, especially to have fun- time for constructive fun for chil you see. Between the occasional steer If you use common sense and some dren, and since it can be such fun, ing and the viewing of buoys and imagination, you'll be able to develop the attention span of a young child various boats, the child will be kept in your children abilities that will is lengthened considerably. busy and will have little thought of make them assets, and not hin A good way to start off the day is mischievous play. drances, to your boating enjoyment. by treating the youngster like an When a youngster shares in the After your first outing, your child adult. This will probably please the fun, it is also reasonable that he might never let you alone again. He'll child, as he will follow the example should share in the work. If you've be wondering when your next little you set as a boatman. Let him notice done your job correctly, he will prob trip is going to be. 20 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLES ^ MUTING ""8*— From G. N., McKeesport: market today, well built—both mech From C. B., Paris: anically and optically, at less than "What is propeller slip and how "What is your opinion of the new half the price of the domestic models. could I figure the slip for my boat, tunnel hull designs?" I personally prefer the individually- which has a 13x12 propeller and focused eyepieces, but well-made First off, there is nothing new inah.es eight miles per hour at 1500 center-focus glass is just as good. about the tunnel idea, since the very Tm?" For offshore cruising, check the bi first propeller-driven steamboats were —Propeller slip is the percentage noculars before buying with a pocket built with this type of hull. It was of efficiency for a given propeller at compass; any iron or steel in the simply the easiest way to accommo a given speed, and it is calculated by glasses will raise all sorts of cane date the propeller to the typical pad subtracting the actual advance from with the boat's compass, where the dle wheel hull of the late 1800's. Like the theoretical advance, then divid binoculars are usually laid. most things in boat design, the tunnel ing by the theoretical advance. To hull is a tradeoff that gains an ad make this a bit simpler, your own esssssss vantage at the expense of a liability. boat has a prop that in theory will From W. D. R., Wilkes-Rarre: The operating draft is reduced, the advance through the water 12 inches, "Where can I buy some of the shaft angle is flatter, and the propel °r one foot, in one revolution. At 1500 ler is given a slight degree of protec r chemical to pour inside the bottom of Pm, you should travel 1500 feet my boat to foam it solid and stop tion. Also on the plus side, the wheel in one minute. However, your actual the leaks?" is partially encased, adding some advance is only 8 mph, so the dis thing (theoretically, at least) to the tance traveled in one minute would —Despite the wild claims made efficiency of the propeller discharge. be 8 x 5280 -r 60, or 704 feet. In by some sellers of foaming materials. Offsetting these positive features are other words, you lost the difference I would strongly advise against treat a number of minuses, including: (a) between 1500 and 704, or 796 feet. ing a wooden hull in this manner. the intake stream to the propeller is •Dividing by 1500, you get the percent First of all, if the difficulty is leaking, restricted by the hull to a consider age of slip, which works out to 46.9 it should be cured by recaulking or able degree, thus increasing the ten Per cent. This sounds like very poor otherwise correcting the source of dency for cavitation; (b) the rudder Performance, but it is no worse than the problem. Foaming the void spaces is less effective, and steering more average for most motorboats, and in a wood hull presents several prob difficult, because of the constriction bigh -speed craft commonly operate lems. First of all, once the chemicals of discharge in the tunnel, and (c) if at propeller slips of as much as 75 are mixed and poured, there is no you pick up a piece of driftwood in Per cent. Motorboats generally are way to stop the foaming until the a tunneled prop, the damage caused very inefficient, but after all, nobody reaction terminates of its own accord. is likely to be greater since the wheel buys a boat for efficiency. If the quantity of materials was over cannot spin it off as readily. "You estimated, the foaming can exert pays your money and takes your •SSSSSSSi enough pressure to permanently dam choice," in other words. from R. V., Union City: age the hull. Also, the foam does not bond tightly to the hull, nor does it "What are the best binoculars for actually fill every small corner of B8888885 general use aboard a boat?" space. A wooden hull that has been —-The best size is the 7 x 50, with foamed contains numerous small From S. M., McKees Rocks: c °ated optics. Seven power is strong pockets where moisture may be "What is deadrise, and how does enough to make out numbers on trapped, hastening the onset of dry this effect a boat?" buoys at a reasonable distance, more rot. Most of the foams do not absorb Powerful glass is just about impos water, but we have seen a number —Deadrise is simply the angle that sible to hold steady on a small boat, that soaked up oil and fuel like a the bottom of the hull makes with a 'he 50-mm objective diameter is sponge, providing a permanent fire horizontal line, as viewed fore and about right for this magnification, as hazard that is just about impossible aft. A flat-bottomed boat has no dead- W will gather enough light for night to remedy. Also, once a hull is rise, is very steady in calm water, but Use. For these reasons, the 7 x 50 foamed, the interior is forever inac tends to pitch and pound heavily in ls the standard binocular used by cessible, and if it becomes necessary a seaway. Boats with extreme dead- "•be U.S. Navy and aboard most com to make a structural repair, it is next rise, called "vee-bottom," are less mercial vessels. Although we sub to impossible to remove the foam. stable but more seakindly, and can be scribe to the "Buy American" theory This is one of those ideas that looks run at fairly high speeds in choppy generally, there are some wonderful good on the surface, but my advice water without pounding, since they bargains in Japanese glasses on the is to forget it. knife through the waves. A- U G U S T-l 9 7 3 21 walk overland is required. In that thing to leave is your footprints. Native all the way case, start fishing when you hit wa These trips are not all wild goose continued from page II ter. Other times, just outwalk the chases. Sometimes, the fishing is better. Mini-lures are all right, but fishermen in the lower end of the good enough to be the Mother Lode most of the time there isn't room to stream. Walk up above the litterbug of Trouting! This brings the ultimate properly present artificials. General line and have it to yourself. Some in satisfaction—even though the fish ly, it is too over-grown and wild for jaunts turn out to be wild goose are small. Usually the ones I bring fly fishing, except for "dapping." This chases, but there is always a satisfac home are about nine inches long. is a method of fishing wherein a tion of accomplishment. There are Sometimes an eleven inch brookie, or short length of line is used. The fly, times when the fishing is disappoint a fifteen inch brown, but that is tops, or bait, is dipped slightly and gently ing but never the trip, or the walk to except for late in the year when big into the water. a remote spot—to what wilderness is fish work upstream to escape warm Fishing upstream works best be left today. water. Naturally, you don't tell any cause the bait is presented more na I, at one time, thought all you one about these streams; each is a turally. It should float or drift freely needed was to find a stream far carefully guarded secret. with the current, unencumbered by enough off the beaten path. If it We lose more prime native water sinkers, unless the water is abnor were isolated and unfished, it had to each year so don't put it off any mally high. Sometimes it is necessary have trout. Naturally, that is essen longer. Roads, highways, dams and to wade in the creeks. When this hap tial for native trout but, in itself, not pollution reduce the number of pens the resulting commotion, silt enough. Food is also needed to sup stream miles available. Go, before it and debris are carried downstream to port a trout population; in many is too late. If you're lucky, you'll be holes already fished by the upstream cases that is the real problem. You able to find a fishing buddy to go angler. walk miles and miles into the back along, one who thinks and feels Because native brook trout fishing woods. The stream is beautiful, but about native trout like you do. brings in undersized fish, use barb- there are no minnows or natural Wherever you live, you can enjoy less hooks, if possible. Regardless of food. Therefore, the trout feed on the type hook, remember not to over some type of native trout fishing. It each other, more than normally. The is inexpensive and as common as a fish. In other words, "don't let them result is there are few fish. The other swallow the bait." Even to the point cancelled postage stamp. You have extreme is to find a creek with too to be exploratory-minded and a lover of setting the hook to soon, it is bet many fish and moderate amounts of ter to miss a legal fish than to deep of nature. Many times all an outing food. Then the fish become stunted. will produce is the sight of a rare hook an undersized one. By not over The stream far enough into the boon fishing, I kill only the trout I want flower in a wild setting. You'll find docks with the right amount of food you like fishing, walking, and learn to take home. Be careful with the fish is a bonanza. Another problem with to be released. Handle the fish quick ing to enjoy solitude. At first, alone the northcentral streams is the dis in the forest, you are impressed with ly but gently. Your hand can't be too tance between holes. Sometimes, ev dry or too wet. Dry hands stick to the the silence. After a while, however, erything in between is a biological you become aware that it really isn't fish and remove the protective slime; desert of shallow flat riffles. hands too wet squeeze the fish and quiet at all. The woodlands have a harm internal organs. Keep one hand Around Titusville, the creek is sound of their own, totally unlike damp-to-wet and use it for all fish usually born in a forested section anything else. When you first enter handling. then flows alternately through woods, the wilderness, you are an intruder, meadows and pasture. In the more Since these creeks are small, their and the woodland routine is halted. mountainous northcentral part of ability to restock is limited. Too As the forest creatures become ac the state, the water never leaves the much fishing is bad, so don't return customed to you, they resume normal forest; therefore, it remains cold for to the same stream all the time. Once activity. Then you hear the grouse more miles. It also goes through less or twice a year is plenty; keep mov drumming, the squirrel chattering, populous country—so it stays native ing around, half the fun is finding a the birds singing, and the chipmunks longer. A seven-mile stretch of native new one. They can't stand much fish rustling the leaves. There is a dignity trout water isn't unusual for the ing; treat them accordingly and you in nature if you will but take time mountains. can go back year after year. An over to appreciate it; and after a while, kill will destroy your find, therefore Travel lightly because of the walk your trout stream becomes a wilder you must learn to limit your kill. ing and uncertainty that lies ahead. ness retreat, not just a fishery. There is another area to fish that When walking seven to fourteen One of these days I'll get Bob involves more exploration and travel. miles, don't be weighted down with Logan out of the Powderhorn, away It is the northcentral portion of Penn gear. Take a compass, snake-bite kit, from the bridges and into boondock- sylvania north of Interstate 80. Get sugar (or candy) and something to ville. He'll hear the birds at day a Geological Survey topographical drink—in addition to your fishing break and the peepers at dusk. He map and pick out the most remote tackle. An overnight excursion is may even end up finding a brook looking stream and find out as much another matter and can be handled trout Utopia where the fish are na about it as possible before leaving by getting some of the newer ultra tive, fat and fifteen inches. I hope 1 home. Write to the District Water light back-packing equipment, or by never find it, though, because then ways Patrolman who is willing to dropping off the extra gear at a pre the search would be over and perhaps help and knows where to go—and arranged spot. Regardless, remember: that is the real enjoyment—the quest how to get there. whatever goes in must come out] and desire to see what is over the Once located, the specific nature of Why walk in above the litterbug line brow of a hill and around the bend each trip will vary. Many times a just to move it upstream? The only of the next riffle. 22 P E N N YLVANIA ANGLEB Leaky Boots YOU NEED PATIENCE! NEW SUBSCRIBER Do you have a lot of patience? I recently had the pleasure of visit continued from page 5 That's what you need in fishing. ing the new fish cultural station at NEXT TO HEAVEN! When you go fishing and cast out Big Springs. The man on duty that Every year I renew my mooring your line, you need a lot of patience. day (Good Friday) was very helpful permit for Bradys Lake in the Poco- You don't pull it in if the fish don't and cooperative. los, not because I catch a tremendous bite right after you cast. You should I picked up several free copies of amount of fish, (I do catch a few) let the fish take their time. When you Pennsylvania Angler and loved it. I but for the sheer beauty, peace and go fishing, don't leave without your have been hunting in your state for quiet. This must be next to HEAVEN. patience! 4 years and this is my second year The Commission must have had the MONICA SHINKO of fishing in your fine state. Now I same "feeling" I get when I stand Wilkes-Barre want to subscribe to the Angler. next to its banks. This is a fisher I especially like Chauncy Lively's man's dream fulfilled. Thanks be to BLAIR COUNTY? Fly Tying. Most of all, I want to God for its beauty and thanks be to WHERE'S BLAIR COUNTY? congratulate you on the helpfulness the Fish Commission for its pur of your fish and game officials. They chase. Please don't let my subscription ex really cooperate with the sportsman. pire. Enclosed is a check for a three AL SZYCHOWSKI WILMER PRICE year renewal. No words can describe Pottstown Hagerstown, Md. the satisfaction that the "Angler" COMPLAINT DEPT. brings every month. NOT LATE AT ALL! I have a complaint. After trout and One thing does bother me though. Sorry I am late with this subscrp- musky season closes, there's a pause When speaking or reading of Penn tion. When you are climbing toward for we women anglers to get our sylvania's fishing waters, Blair Coun the 70 year old mark, you're prone Spring cleaning done before the sea ty is too often overlooked. to forget. son opens again. (Isn't that the rea- It's true that surrounding counties I like the Angler because with the s°n the Fish Commission closes the have top notch trout streams which descriptive storys and features I can season at this time?) But, my com have a reputation for producing a live them at home, though I still fish plaint is, try as I may, I have a hard good number of nice sized fish. Penns here in Maryland. You have con time getting fishing out of my mind Creek, Spring Creek, Standing Stone vinced me that your objectives for the •and concentrating on washing walls. Creek, and Bald Eagle Creek are just fisherman in your state, and the sin Before I know it, I'm day-dreaming a few of those streams. cerity of purpose you show in grow again and my sponge turns into my Here in Blair County we have ing, makes me feel I should fish in rod" and the water bucket into a Clover Creek, Piney Creek, Canoe Pennsylvania also. stream" and I find my wrist "twitch- Creek, Bobs Creek, the Frankstown WILLIAM E. ROWE lng" as I wipe the walls. I "net" the Branch of the Juniata River and Elkton, Md. more. Many of my fondest memories dust with my vacuum and "row" my We'll go along with that, Bill! Ed. ^ay through closets of debris. Final are those as a boy along Blairs Gap ly. I get my mind off of fishing and Run, my hometown stream. HE SAID IT-WE DIDN'T °ack to work and what happens? The The state hatcheries are and al Enclosed is my remittance for a ANGLER comes in the mail and the ways have been a source of amaze three year subscription to the Penn 'ever starts again! Just looking ment and wonder to me. All I can sylvania Angler. On 5/5/73, I caught through the table of contents sends say is a job very well done on pro my first musky, a 32", 11 lb. beauty ^V mind back to the waters. You ducing the size and number of trout from the Allegheny River at Oil City, sonofaguns" are no help! to the hatchery workers. The Waterways Patrolmen also de Pa. I sincerely believe that this would As for my complaint, quit putting not have been possible without the s° many good articles in your maga- serve heaps of praise as they are nev er too busy to lend a helping hand. outstanding effort by the Pa. Fish ^ne until the season opens again and Commission. Keep up the good work! r get my Spring cleaning done, Small wonder why my fishing bud dies and I are "Pennsylvania Anglers" THOMES M. FENIO "flusky fever—Coho craze—trout. . . . McKees Rocks You sure know how to hurt a gal, FOREVER! bv STEPHEN FOWKES >t love the ANGLER anyway. I'm NOT YET glad the Fish Commission helps us Duncansville ln This is one time in my life when this way, too! I write a check for five dollars with MRS. JOANNE HAIBACH NEW HEIGHTS a smile on my face. The Pennsyl Erie The issue received today (read vania Angler is the only item on the OK, Joanne, thanks! Now back to the cover to cover) indicates that a top- s market that inflation has not reached. Uds! Ed. notch informational magazine can EMERSON D. PORTNER achieve new heights by publishing p York fiV"E JOB! articles, features and photos of such You people are doing a fine job diverse nature that they appeal to the n stocking the streams and taking aesthetic angler as well as the casual MOVING? ar e of our lakes. I hope that the in- fisherman who "just likes the out If so, let us know in advance. re ase in license fee will pass. Thank doors." We need both your old and new y°u- MICHAEL KNAPIC S. S. CHICCITT addresses—with rip codes Twin Rocks Bethel Park, Pa. UUS T-l 9 7 3 23 GUESS WHO?? Checked a fisherman last winter who was all dressed up in his in S( sulated snow suit, hood on and a 2,-K. te ski mask over his face. The only Ci thing you could see that would as It NOTEfitWl sure you that it was a human was it the eyes and the mouth. When I bj asked to see his fishing license he 0] said, "Every time I come to this lake must have these regulations. You ly GROWING you check me! What is the matter could see and sense the enthusiasm h, Fifteen to twenty fishermen was a with you, don't you recognize me?" these students had. Many questions big crowd for the winter season four The last time I checked him was in were asked, such as, "Why do fish at years ago at Parker Dam State Park. July and this time he sure didn't have scales?" "How do fish sleep?" H On December 21, 1972, there were look like anyone I had ever seen be "How do you tell a male from a fe over ONE HUNDRED fishermen on fore. a male?" "How many eggs does a fish hand for the second planting of fish. f'o have?" plus many other questions. Joseph £. Bartley WP (Pike County) he Edward W. Brown It was an interesting afternoon just WP (Clearfield Co.) knowing that these youngsters really enjoyed and learned something from Chances Are— "WHY KIDS ARE BOKNr the program, also, that every student You have a fishing pal who isn't quite \\ While stocking a stream in Wayne except one had already enjoyed the the fisherman you'd like him to be. He doesn't understand why you want to County, a statement was made by a sport of fishing. leave so early or stay so late. You spend small boy about 7 years old, as he in Richard R. Roberts more time explaining fishing to him Cc dumped a net full of fish in the wa WP (Susquehanna Co.) than you do fishing! Is it worth $2.00 to ter. He said, "Now I know why kids I] you for some peace and quiet? in are born, so that they can do the WHAT KIND? Send him the ANGLER for a year. work for the grown-ups." I thought You'll be amazed at how a year of good th. During the West Penn Sportsmen's about it for awhile, looked around, reading will improve his luck and Fii Show at the Civic Arena in Pitts and I believe he is right. There were you'll have more free time for fishing! lot burgh, I was chatting with Outdoor a good many healthy looking young All we need is his name, address, and Oil Writer, John Kubicko, when a woman men standing there with their hands ZIPcode—and the two bucks, of course. th< walked up to the stand and began ad in their pockets. They would not help miring some ropes for dragging deer. with a bucket or a net of fish and 'This is what I needed last season," SOMETHING NEW there were some stocking points the lady offered. "My deer weighed I have seen Co-operative Nurseries rj where they could have been helpful. 200 pounds and we had a tough time made of about everything imaginable Joseph f. Bartley dragging it out." As our conversation but the Sinnemahoning Sportsmens Sp WP (Pike Co.) progressed, a young lady sitting next Association has come up with the mi to John was picking up only bits and prize. They are going to repair the tec FROGLEGS ANYONE? pieces of what was being said. Soon base of an old weigh scale near the While on patrol of Clarion River the successful hunter said, "It Grove Run in Sinnemahoning. The grs near Bell town, I observed a chip weighed 150 pounds dressed out." To base measures about 5 feet deep by Wo munk pulling a frog as large as the this, the interested bystander in 42 feet long and 7 feet wide. With a Wo chippy. I don't know if the chipmunk quired, "Oh! You're kidding?" "No, little work I believe they will come is , was going to have that frog for sup it weighed 150 pounds with the head up with a nice section of raceway- at per or not. It was a first for me. and legs off," replied the hunter. Good luck fellows! "Yc With an amazed look sweeping across Bernard D. Ambrose Stanley G. Hastings • arte WP (Elk Co.) her face the very inquisitive woman WP (Cameron Co.) J Mi asked, "What kind of fish was it?" LOST AND FOUND No INQUISITIVE! Don Parrish Peo WP (Beover Co.) While at the West Penn Sports During the month of February I Show, Special Waterways Patrolman was asked to present a program to Wallace was looking over the various the 4th grade students at the Laurel DAMES, DAMES, DAMES! displays, when he felt a tug at his Street Elementary School in Susque Year after year, I observe more arm. A small lad of about 10 or 12 ) hanna, Pa. Mrs. Robson, the teacher ladies taking up the sport of fishing, years of age was looking up at him that organized the program, advised especially ice fishing. To some this and asked, "Mister, can you help me that she was inviting several may seem unusual but after all it was me find my dad? I was fishing at the State Agencies to come and explain a woman who wrote the first known big tank, and when I looked around, their responsibilities and services. I essay on sport fishing back between my dad disappeared." selected to explain a brief history of 1406 and 1420. In case anyone is Deputy Wallace, like any good guy the Pennsylvania Fish Commission, interested the title was "Treatise of "Waterways Patrolman" would do. how our funds are derived and what Fishing with an Angle" by DAME escorted the lad to the information | we spend them for. I also explained Juliana Berners! booth and had the father paged. fish identification, spawning, seasons, Paul R. Sowers James R. Smith sizes and creel limits and why we WP (E. Warren Co.) WP (S. Allegheny Co.) 24 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLEB HOW'D THEY DO IT? "DID I SAY THE NO OPPOSITION As a Waterways Patrolman, I get WRONG THING, DAD?" While working at the Eastern some strange and rather amusing It is really amazing how children Sportsmens Show, Harrisburg, some telephone calls. One morning I was so innocently and honestly embarrass part of every day during the week called at 1:00 am from a barroom. a parent. While working the Fish and talking with many anglers not It seems that the caller had been told Commission's live fish display at the one angler mentioned the proposed it was illegal to use vanilla in dough- Harrisburg Sportsmens Show, I had fishing license increase to me. I did balls while carp fishing. I even had the occasion to be talking to a father take the liberty to ask a fair number one a little more amusing just recent and his 13 year old son. We were and all were aware of the increase ly. A fellow called to ask if I had talking about what the father thought but did not seem to oppose it. heard that the shad were running of a JUNIOR FISHING LICENSE for Warren W. Singer, Jr. up the Raystown Branch of the Juni children. The father was very inter WP (Adams/N. York Cos.) ata River and the Augwick Creek in ested and also was quite interesting Huntingdon County. I assured him to talk to as he was explaining to me HEREFORD MANOR'S HOT! that I had not heard of this run be how interested he was in conserva fore. I would certainly like to know Hereford Manor Lake became the tion and especially how the Commis first Fish Commission owned lake in how the shad by-passed the power sion should do something about fish dams on the Susquehanna River! Beaver County just prior to trout hogs and truck followers. Just before season this spring. Opening day was Walter A. Rosser he left he said he was definitely in standing room only! Special Water WP (Blair Co.) favor of a JUNIOR LICENSE. I said to ways Patrolman Rich Sallade, and I WHITE PIKE? his boy, "Son, what do you think put in a total of 62 man hours the about you having to buy a license?" first two days. We estimated a total During the annual spring spawn The child looked at me very seriously of seven to eight thousand fishermen ing run of Northern Pike from the and said, "I think it's great, because converged on this 47 acre impound Conewango Creek to Akeley Swamp, if I have a license, dad won't be able ment. Since the opening day, Jim I received numerous reports of sight to catch my limit and his both on Cunningham, former owner, has ing of WHITE NORTHERN PIKE. Al the first day, how about if dad?" I watched an average of 400 per day though Fish Commission and Sports can tell you there was one red face utilizing the facility. Hereford Manor Fisheries biologists were unable to that quickly vanished from my pres Lake, long a favorite regulated lake locate any specimens, it is certain ence! in this area, is being used and ap there are one or more WHITE PIKE in John i. Stepansfci preciated by the people from Beaver, the area. WP (Douphin Co.) Butler, and Allegheny County. I Paul R. Sowers speak for everyone when I say thanks WP (E. Warren Co.) LAY 'EM IN THERE! to the Fish Commission people who THE BEST! On Friday, May 4, 1973, with the were instrumental in acquiring this While again working the Cleveland cooperation of the BUREAU OF FOR new body of water. I also hope we Sports Show at the Pa. Fish Com ESTRY DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTAL RE have made believers of those who SOURCES, heliocopters were used to mission exhibit, it was gratifying to were not in favor of this investment. stock the Lehigh River. One 'copter, receive so many compliments from Don Parrish with the Patrolman aboard, func the out-of-state fishermen on our pro WP (Beaver Co.) tioned as the control 'copter in pick grams in Pennsylvania. "You have ing the spots; the other carrying the Wonderful fishing water, and the trout and laying them down, as if in Work you're doing to combat pollution Statewide— s bed, in the areas of the river to be continued from page 2 ' unbelievable!" "We'd buy a license a stocked—some of which had never t any price to fish in your state." never prevent this type of abuse and it is been reached before due to remote "You have some of the best Musky not expected to. Why isn't the word a inaccessibility by truck. The pilots nd Walleye fishing in Pennsylvania "catch" removed, then? Was that going to were superb; when I use the term which is comparable to Canada." be the next question? A good point! "lay", that is exactly what I mean. Nothing but fine remarks from these It was the writer's good fortune to have Frederick W. Ohlsen People. served a good number of years in the WP (Carbon Co.) Worren L Beover Law Enforcement Division. Now and WP (Crawford Co.) then, a very talented (though devious) "CREEL" OF ANOTHER fisherman would quickly catch his limit of WAIT, JUST AYEAR] COLOR! eight stocked trout and continue fishing— WP Shearer handed me a letter he An old gentleman at Stevenson handing the additional trout to a hereto •"eceived on Feb. 21, 1973, from Mr. Dam was engaged in picking up litter fore unlucky friend, At about this time I ™< J. Marsili, of Pittsburgh, stating that had been left by others and I found it a great joy to pounce upon this ~*at he had just read of the increase observed him for a few minutes. I "talented" culprit with all the enthusiasm from $5.20 to $7.00. Mr. Marsili then took the time to compliment him of the Sheriff of Nottingham—and with Wanted to know how he could pay the on his work and gave him a litter considerably more success. difference, and to whom it should be bag. I know he filled it at least three This action was illegal—but why? He Sent. WP Shearer sent a letter back times. My hat's off to persons who neither "killed" them, nor "possessed" e*plaining that next year we hoped will take their limit of litter instead them—but he did "catch" them and did lt Would be law. of fish. not "return them in the condition in Cloyd Holler, Stanley G. Hastings which they were caught to the waters Assr. Supervisor (Region I) WP (Cameron Co.) from which they were taken!" I XJ G U S T-l 9 7 3 25 THE ANGLER'S NOTEBOOK tC& by Richard F. Williamson Gaudy colors on the tops and sides of When trout ignore your delicately A sudden beam of light can ruin surface plugs are great eye-catchers, but floating dry fly, try twitching it very, night fishing, but a light left burning more for anglers than for fish. It is the very slightly. on a dock can improve fishing. The light belly of the floating plug that the fish attracts insects, which attract baif fish, sees. The best surface plugs have bellies Low water challenges the stream fish and game fish will move out of the that give the appearance of being scaled erman. Avoid wading whenever pos shadows to feed on the little fish. Both the bait fish and game fish become ac or are colored various shades of green. sible. Wear clothing that blends into customed to constant light. the background. Fish with a long line and leader, and when you fish for Your fishing waders should be large Cast a fly or other lure slightly to trout get down to 4X or 5X leader tip enough that they permit freedom of ac either side of a feeding fish, not right pets. tion, yet not so big that they are awk at the end of its nose. Because of the ward. The lighter the better, for even position of their eyes, fish see objects the lightest waders are vastly more Grasshoppers impaled on hooks are slightly to either side of them more bulky than the clothing a man usually good bait. Chances of strikes are in easily than objects directly in front. wears. creased if a pair of slender white quill wings are tied just back of the eye of Don't use snaps and swivels on Fish that strike on a long, loosely the hook. spoons and plugs. They can interfere handled line are easily lost. The cast with the action built into the lure. Tie should be no longer than necessary, In using a spinner fly with long, the line directly to the lure. If, how and slack in the line should be avoided. flowing hackles, stop the fly every now ever, you are fishing for sharp-toothed and then for a second or two. Fish often fish, such as members of the pike fam will strike at that moment, likely be ily, a very fine wire leader may be Crickets work best as trout bait when cause of the action of the unfolding used. they are used during the period of hackles. dusk, late in the day. Crickets are the all-time top live bait Large trout like big mouthfuls of for big bluegill sunfish. Some anglers sneer at spinning rods, food. That is why they so often ignore and in so doing they overlook an im Carry worms in moist grass or in artificial flies, but strike readily at min portant fact. Spinning outfits handle moss instead of soil, and they will re nows, grasshoppers, and worms. lures too heavy for fly rods or too main lively and firm. light for casting rods. And often that "in between" lure is the only one that A proper range of lures for use with Frogs must have air and should not will catch fish. the casting rod should include a surface be crowded in the container. disturber, a surface darter, a shallow runner, a deep diver, a darting spoon, If you carry grasshoppers in a can, When a pork rind fails to produce, a heavy spinner and fly, jigs, and a punch holes in the lid to give them air. use a sharp knife to slice the free end spoon with pork rind. into thin strips. That way it will pro duce more action in the water. Sometimes it is easier to produce ac You will find pike in deep water tion by changing from one size of fly to during hot summer days. Shallow water another than from one pattern, or color, Fish close to the shore when wind is near deep holes is worth your atten to another. kicking up the surface of a stream pool tion, however, since pike leave the or lake. The wind blows large insects depths and feed in the shallows when A warm summer shower, not too from shore vegetation into the water, they are hungry. severe, nor too long, often is worth and fish are lying in wait for such mor fishing through. This type of rain fresh sels. ens the water, breaks the calm of the Cast a nymph slightly upstream or surface, and frequently spurs fish to a directly across and allow the fly to feeding spree. And, no angler minds Carry an extra reel holding a line float freely in the current. You can getting a bit damp from an August that has been carefully dressed. Then twitch the rod tip very, very gently to shower. if the line you are using should begin impart irregular motion to the nymph to absorb water or get loggy, change —but a hard jerk will make the lure to the reel with the perfectly dry line. move unnaturally through the water. MOVING? Please notify the ANGLER. Fish out every dry fly cast carefully; To make a wet fly on the spot, select We need both your old and even if the fly drags or sinks. Often, a dry fly, clip off the wings (or burn a sunken dry fly, retrieved with skill, them off with a cigarette) remove most new address. Do it now!! will take a trout. of the hackle, and there you have it! 26 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLE? Stinkhole Sturgeon ing, according to Dr. Breder, Jr., is to cruise slowly along with the barbels dragging or touching bottom. of Presque Isle As soon as these appendages come in contact with continued from page 7 some food object, the tubular mouth is shot down ward so that it is directly over the morsel by the time their five longitudinal rows of heavy scales or "buck it reaches the bottom, the fish usually not checking lers." The mouth is located on the under side of the its pace. In fact, because of the rather inflexible state snout, in front of which are four fleshy barbels. of the paired fins, it is rather difficult for the stur This well written and informative article says the geon to stop its forward motion abruptly. This is lake sturgeon is the largest fish of the Great Lakes compensated for by the comparatively great distance and, next to the paddlefish and the giant gar of the between the sensory barbels and the mouth. Mississippi River, the largest fresh water fish east of Doctor Breder continues by saying the lake stur the Rockies. It never reaches the great size of the sea geon ascend streams in the spring to spawn, usually sturgeons ascending rivers of the Atlantic and the in May or June. They also spawn on rocky ledges near Pacific Coasts. shore. The eggs are glutinous and adhere firmly to Milner, who examined many in the early seventies, sticks, rocks, and other objects. Hatching occurs in saw none longer than six feet, but heard reports a week or two. around the Lakes of larger sturgeons. In 1922, a The young, when two or three inches long, are pro sturgeon was taken in Lake Huron which measured tected by their spine-tipped buckler plates, which are seven feet, 3 inches, and weighed 225 pounds. This already well developed. still did not compare in weight and length with the Sturgeons seldom live more than two or three years Lake Erie Sturgeon caught by Mr. Ralph. in aquaria, but doubtless would live longer in cap Lake Erie sturgeon are considered small compared tivity—were it practicable to keep them in mud-bot with the big sturgeon of the Columbia and Fraser tom pools and supplied with their natural foods. Rivers of the Pacific drainage. L. J. Farley of Prosser, In 1880, the catch of sturgeons in the Great Lakes Washington, caught (near the mouth of the Yakima exceeded 7,000,000 pounds. In 1917, it had fallen to River) an 11V4 foot specimen weighing 826 pounds. less than 1,000,000; and in 1936, to 25,000. In the A. B. Chapman of Seattle, took (from the Columbia upper Mississippi River and its tributaries, that catch River) an IIV2 foot female near Kalama, Washing has fallen in proportion. When we consider, the ar ton, in 1917. It weighed 835 pounds and contained ticle says, that the caviar alone from a female Atlan 90 pounds of eggs. tic sturgeon is worth more than $100, it is easy to The largest of all Columbia sturgeons reported realize what the passing of this fish means. Even the Was taken near Vancouver, Washington, by A, B. Russian sturgeon is becoming more scarce as time Chapman in May or June of 1912. It was twelve and goes on. Such is the rate at which we are harvesting a half feet long and weighed 1,285 pounds! From the our wild crops. Fraser River, we have a record of a lOVi- foot stur The sea sturgeon have also decreased at a rapid geon weighing 1,015 pounds. All of these big ones rate and fish-culture has made little progress in prop are the white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) agating any of them. and they must take title to being the biggest fresh The lake sturgeon is inoffensive as far as other Water fish in North America. fishes are concerned, except as it may disturb then- The difficulties encountered in the propagation of eggs, being strictly a bottom feeder and living on the sturgeon by artificial methods have been only mollusks, crustaceans, worms, and small plant life. partly overcome. The breeding sizes available for Its mouth, devoid of teeth, and placed on the under- experimental fish-culture are now so limited that ex surface of the head, is sucker-like in form and can be termination is feared. protruded downward like the vacuum-action mouths However, we read in a recent sportsmen's maga of suckers. zine that small sturgeon should be left to grow into It is believed that on the assumption that if Lake lunkers; the huge fish should also be turned back as Erie sturgeon could again be made available in the spawners. Studies by Idaho's Fish and Game Depart Erie area (since the pound nets have not been em ment indicate that sturgeon grow about two inches a ployed for quite a number of years by local Commer year. The first spawning may come between 11 and cial Fisheries), we are sure the memorial inscription 22 years of age for males and 34 years for females. of "Stinkhole Sturgeon" would never again be ap Subsequent spawnings may come from four to nine plied to their carcasses owing to the universal crav years apart. That's hardly rapid reproduction. Idaho ing for the delicacies of caviar and hickory smoked and Oregon, therefore, have effective laws since Jan- sturgeon. u ary, 1970, that prohibit the keeping of sturgeon The stench of "Stinkhole Sturgeon" no longer both c aught in the Snake River. ers Erieland, because this condition was eliminated Further description shows that the sensitive snout when the Lake Erie Sturgeon was practically exter fnd the four barbels in front of the mouth are used minated by this reckless and wanton method of fish 1Ji locating food on the bottom. The method of feed ing. * U G U S T-l 9 7 3 27 the eastern shore back in the wooded areas by 1973. He may be reached at 814-625-2775 for current information. Downstream from the causeway, at least four miles of lake is available for unrestricted horsepower use, while three large bays and the lake upstream of the causeway, near Howard, has a slow-wake enforce ment. Sailboating is becoming as popular as power-boating on special parts of Blanchard and four excellent boat accesses are operating a* the present time with fine parking, sani tary and picnic facilities nearby. A marina for 408 boats is also sched uled. Roads circle the lake on both sides. This is the west shore access area; one of four excellent boat launching areas on the lake. This is the third year of existence missus remained in the stricken car, of the lake which was stocked with a Young drove me in his truck to the huge number of fish since the valve CAMPING NEAR small community of Howard, midway was closed. Included in Blanchard's BALD EAGLE up the lake on the other shore, where stockings have been over 2,325,000 a causeway splits the lake at its cen walleye fry in April, 1971, with ter, and we were just in time to get 4,325,000 added in the spring of the last chunk of hose at a corner 1972. Bass fry numbered 173,000 in By THAD BUKOWSKI gas station before it closed for the June, 1971, with 160,000 musky fry night! Since then I have added both also going into the lake in May, 1971. % and % inch hoses and extra clamps Huge resident muskies have already to our traveling equipment. been caught in the dam outflow with the largest measuring 46 inches and e had pulled into an excellent With Young's help (including his weighing 30!/2 pounds. Wprivate camping site just out fine flashlight) we managed to re side of Bellefonte, north of 1-80, and pair the leak and then used lake An unusual fish introduced into the I had intended to spend most of my water from Blanchard to fill the lake has been the striped bass of time on this stint fishing for trout at radiator. which 2,800 were planted in Novem the Fishermen's Paradise. As it was, The unusual meeting fostered a ber and December of 1971. A total I never tossed out a dry fly to any of fine opportunity to have a session the of 10,000 black crappies, and 20,000 the thousands of trout near the Ben- next morning with Park Foreman channel catfish were also released, ner Springs complex. Rogers Baumgard, of the Depart both as fingerlings, while 1,200 year ling northern pike between 15-17 I surveyed the Commonwealth map ment of Environmental Resources, inches long went in on January 19, beforehand and wanted to investigate who was gracious enough to take us a nearby new lake I noticed off Rt. for a boat ride around the big water 1973, as well as 1,500 fingerling 220, just north of Milesburg. It was area. Once out, Baumgard immediate muskies in September of 1972. Blanchard Reservoir and I later ly pointed to a spot near the inlet Winter-stocked trout are also avail learned the dam was named, "FOSTER (from which we put out) to where able as well as pickerel. Fish Commis JOSEPH SAYERS," in memory of a beavers were cutting a number of sion researchers also add that "high former resident of this Center County large hemlocks and aspens. water on upper Spring Creek, due to area who was awarded the Congres "We've also had reports of both a Hurricane Agnes, may have washed sional Medal of Honor posthumously Bald and Golden Eagle, plus an otter, some cold water species into Sayre; for his heroic services in World War in the area of the park," he added ex so don't be surprised if some big II. citedly. Bald Eagle Park is sand trout are caught in the future." The park complex, centered around wiched between two extensive chunks Many of these stocked fish should the 1,730 acre lake which extends of mountain through which Bald be providing excellent angling en nearly eight miles upstream with 23 Eagle Creek courses for a considerable joyment by this fall. miles of shoreline, is named BALD distance and the hillsides are im Constructed by the Corps of Eng EAGLE STATE PARK. pressive everywhere. ineers, Bald Eagle Park is operated We got to know the folks who care At least a dozen great blue herons by the Department of Environmental for Bald Eagle rather quickly. Our lumbered into the sky as we ap Resources, with the water supply car blew a hose just inside the en proached the west shore near the coming from Bald Eagle Creek, flow trance and the engine spewed a cloud dam; more evidence that wildlife is ing through Milesburg, less than 10 of steam just as security guard Max taking well to the reformed ecology miles to the south. The park is Young was making his final round of this area. reached from Rt. 220, north from to close the park gate for the night. Baumgard said that a total camp Milesburg, or from Rt. 504 to If it were not for his immediate and ing complex was not expected until Howard. Remember, Fishermen's excellent help, we might have groped a number of years in the future but Paradise is also at your elbow, just a in the dark for hours. While the he hoped for 100 primitive sites on few miles to the south. 28 P E N N YLVANIA ANGLES Cooperative Nurseries are fish rearing facilities built and maintained by organized sportsmen CO-OP NEWS . . . at their own expense. Fingerling fish provided by the Pennsylvania Fish by Bill Porter Commission are reared and released in public waters of the sportsmen's choice A monthly feature devoted exclusively in accordance with policies prescribed by the Fisheries Division's Cooperative Nursery Branch, to Pennsylvania's Cooperative Nurseries— Robert H. Brown, Chief. fter the recent four-part "How- of flow. The pipe is also below the A TO-DO-IT" series, it seems prop frost line, with clean-out boxes at MOVING? er to get back into the treatment of various points. If possible, notify us in advance. individual clubs with a model ex The raceway itself is of cement We need both your old and new ample. block construction, built pretty much address to insure uninterrupted Such a cooperative nursery is the to the exact specs of Fish Commission mailing of your ANGLER. West Cain Sportsmen's Hibernia Park design plans. Screens cover the unit Nursery in Chester County. These fel and can be hooked up out of the way Nursery, are stocked in waters with lows have some things going for them against an attractive fence and guard in the park. Streams involved would that are not necessarily available to rail setup. At the time of our visit, include parts of the Brandywine other clubs which, in part, accounts the screens were covered with plastic Creek and Birch Run. These water for their attractive site and nursery sheeting to keep out winter debris courses are, of course, open to public development. Hard work and interest and reduce freezing conditions with fishing; but the stocking is done are all part of the package, too. in the raceway. within the park complex as an added The nursery is located in the Hiber Additional facilities include an at attraction to users of the park and to nia Park Complex, a fine nature lore tractive storage and food processing justify the use of county funds, and recreational center operated by building. The outside is in keeping through the park budget, to help de Chester County as a county park. with general construction throughout fray the costs of construction and There are a number of advantages to the park. The interior is well-lighted, operation. this setup. One of them is the twenty- with a work bench for meat grinding Now, before some of the rest of you four hour patrol of the area which re cooperative nursery fellows feel too duces vandalism and the human green with envy, it hasn't all been Predator problem. Perhaps more im a bed of roses for the Hibernia portant, however, is the financial sup- Nurserymen. Agnes, for example, Port the club receives from the park gave them a very bad time. The whole budget. Briefly, the arrangement is area was under water and a large this.- the club provides the feed, and number of their fish were lost, or the park system is responsible for died as a result of turbid waters and construction and maintenance. related problems. The survivors of There is a close affiliation between that disaster looked good and were Park staff and club members with growing nicely at the time of our ^any of the men playing dual roles. winter visit. Frank Chambers, the park superin In summary, the general success tendent, who met us on our visit, is and potentially bright future of this an active club member. James Mohr, particular nursery seems to be direct ^ho was with the group, is an active ly related to careful planning, seeking chib member, too, is also captain of View of intake; grates restrain debris. and following advice from the profes the park security guards. Other ac sionals (the Cooperative Nursery tives in the project include: Bruce and other work. Comfort is supplied staff), and having the unusual ad ^utledge—club president, and Albert by thermostatic electric heat, lavora- vantage of financial support from ^tnmon—nursery manager. tory facilities, and other conven the county park budget and the pro But, getting to the physical quali- iences. The whole area of the nursery tection of the round-the-clock secur ties of the nursery, we said it is a is well-lighted with double mercury ity patrol—an unfortunate but in ^odel, and it is. Beginning with the vapor lights, operating from a "day creasing necessity these days. *ntake system, the whole project is time-nighttime" time switch. So, if you're in the southeastern l^st about right "out of the book." The nursery is in its second year corner of the state and are interested The intake dam is strong, backs up of operation, having been approved in observing a text-book cooperative an adequate head of water, and al- in 1971. Plans call for an additional nursery in operation, check in at the JPvvs for overflow and reasonable fifty feet of raceway to be added to Hibernia Park and look over the West . %h water. The actual intake itself the present raceway. The intake sys Cain Sportsmen's project. While you s guarded against debris by a series tem, water supply, and general lay are there, you might also enjoy the of grates and graduated screens, out of the original site was planned to other attractive facilities and natural ater is piped underground to the include the proposed extension. beauty of Chester County's public aceway with control valves for rate Trout, produced in the Hibernia park. * U G U S T-l 9 7 3 29 A FISHING FEATURE FOR FtSHERMENFROM FISHERMEN QM =£1V: KERRY WHITE, of York, holds his 17- inch, 2-pound brook trout caught in Mountain Creek, Cumberland County, during October, 1972. He was using spin ning gear and a C. P. Swing. EMERY VAN HORN, JR., of Kersey, holds a nice brown trout caught from the Kinzua Dam Trailwaters on a rapala late An ardent fly fisherman, EARL MUR last December. It measured 271/2-iriches RAY, of Dillsburg, holds one of his many and weighed 7-pounds, 9-ounces. catches. This nice 29-inch, 11-pound brown trout was taken from the Yellow Breeches on his fly rod and an Adams fly. EDWARD SIEMINSKI, 11, of Tarentum, is delighted with his catch of a hugh 43>/2- inch, 23%-pound musky from the Mouth of Bull Creek, Allegheny County. He caught it on a night crawler. A Drums fisherman, MARK NOVAT- NAK, holds his beauty—a 23-inch, 7- Young LARRY KLINE was fishing in a pound largemouth bass caught on his bait farm pond near Reading, in Berks Coun casting rod with a crazy crawler. He made ty, when he caught his nice 18-inch, 214- the catch last September. pound largemouth bass. He was using a Bethlehem Angler, MICHAEL MARTIN, purple worm for bait. holds a 22-inch, 6-pound smallmouth bass which he caught in the Delaware River, Northampton County, last April. He used spinning gear and a shad dart. EDWARD RITZ holds the all time rec A Hollidaysburg angler, MELVIN Young KENNETH KOLENIK, 12, of ord-breaker—a 22-inch, 4-pound, 5-ounce STRINGFELLOW, Sr., caught his large Leechburg, caught this 26- inch carp froifl brook trout taken on his fly rod with a 41-inch, 20-pound musky on a minnow at Armstrong County's Allegheny River las' white streamer. Ed lives in Millersville Raystown Dam in Hintingdon County. March. It weighed 7-pounds, 12-ounces, and and took the fish at Penns Creek. That will sure make a few meals! Kenneth received a citation for this one- 30 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLE? L A musky fisherman, ROBERT KOHR, holds his 43!4-inch, 19-pound musky taken from the Susquehanna River in Lancaster Co. on a white bu'cktail. He lives in Hum- melstown and made the catch in December. The Reverend LESTER LUTZ, of Fern- dale, proudly shows his 21Vi-inch, 5-pound smallmouth bass caught from the Dela ware River above Easton last September. A very fine catch! TOM BANOTAI, of Allentown, caught his nice 22'/4-inch rainbow trout from Jordan Creek in Lehigh County with spinning rod and cheese last June, 1972. That's a lot of Rainbow, Tom! LOUIS W. GRIST, of Bessemer, gets help from his father to hold the 31'/2-inch, 15- pound carp he took with his bow and arrow at Bessemer Lake, in Lawrence Co., last August. STANLEY KAMINSKI, of McKeesport, was fishing at Presque Isle Bay when he landed his 36-inch, 10-pound northern ROBERT SHOEMAKER, of Shickshinny, a pike. It hit a yellow shyster on his spin P Ught his 24-inch, 7%-pound largemouth casting gear last December. . ass from a pond in Wyoming County .n October 1972. We don't see too many lrgemouth bass this large! ELI LUTERON, of Patterson Heights, gets help from WP Don Parrish to hold his first musky catch, a 45-inch, 26-pounder caught from Pymatuning Reservoir in May '72. It was taken on a nightcrawler. ^*^| ^^^ A J| RK. RUSNAK, 14, of Freedom, caught The Allegheny River was the scene of CHARLES SWEDA, SR., of Masontown, 5 r^V4-inch, 5V2-pound northern pike on 1 now from JOHN SUDUL, JR's catch of his 30-inch caught this huge 31-inch, 10-pound wall bfj?" Lake Wilhelm last Decern walleye caught on his spinning gear with eye on his spinning rod and a flatfish from ing- He earned a Pennsylvania Angler JUt a sucker last November. John lives in the Allegheny River in Forest County last >ior Citation for this one! Warren, in northwestern Pennsylvania. October. *u GUS T-l 9 7 3 31 small helgrammites, water worms the nocturnal cricket will crawl under ) Fishing Outlook (crane fly larva) and bass bugs (dra them to seek protection from the \ continued from page 3 gon fly nymphs). Grasshoppers, heat and the light. When you pick < A third factor to consider is the hooked lightly behind the collar on a these covers up in the morning, there ) selection of bait or lures. Fishing in fine wire hook and drifted at the should be a few baits hiding under j the thermoclime, you'll find that the proper depth, are also relished by each of them. Keep your crickets in < game fish and the panfish are there. the bass and the panfish. a wire cage with some grass and But so are their "young of the year," One bait that very few fishermen some bread crumbs for food. Store in plus all the minnows and their fry. use today in Pennsylvania is the a cool dark place and they will last This represents millions of fish swim cricket. Over the years these black for quite a while. ming around. The larger panfish and beauties have accounted for many a Wet flies are good producers too, the game fish feed heavily on these. stringer full of plump bluegills and during these times. Patterns like the Trying to keep small minnows alive, smallmouth bass. A light hook, size McGinty and the Wooly Worms are f the size they are feeding on, is nigh 12, under the collar, and a split shot the best. When you tie these flies, use onto impossible. You must improvise. to keep it down, are all that is needed an underbody of lead wire to make Small streamers or spinners fished —the fish will do the rest. them sink rapidly. A gentle twitching i real slow, with a jerky, erratic motion To collect your own crickets, take of the rod tip imparts movement to to simulate injured or sick fish will a few pieces of cardboard or carpet the hackles and the bluegills, crappie, ( work now. and place them in a field or grassy and rock bass respond well to wet Other baits that are good too are area. When the sun begins to rise, fly fishing in August. tory of equipment. However, my luck The sun was obscured and the t Fishing Fancies wasn't as great as my enthusiasm day was crisp and cold with a chill t continued from page 9 and I went through a long frustrat factor that knocked the temperature ; into the skillet, placed it over the fire, ing dry spell during my first year on down to about 10 above. And as I hit ; and dressed the fish. Then I put some the ice. the ice, I was determined not to go c flour into a paper bag, tossed a dozen This prompted me to proclaim to home empty handed. 1 smelt into it, grasped the open end my better half one Sunday that 1 As it turned out, I stayed out on t and shook it vigorously. I popped the was going ice fishing and if I didn't the ice until almost dark before 1 ! flour covered delicacies into the oil catch anything, I was going to get found the perch. When I got home where they sizzled to a golden brown. rid of my gear and spend my week all smiles, my wife accepted this as My activity and the aroma of the ends watching football on the boob- another defeat for the as yet un fried smelt attracted a few of the op tube. She breathed a deep sigh of known "women's lib." posite sex who were also on the shore. relief and asked, "Is that a promise?" The day she decided to go ice fish- Soon I was conducting cooking les "Certainly," I replied. ing with me was truly memorable- sons and passing out samples of my "OK," she said, "I'm going to hold We were out shopping and she pur culinary skills and enjoying every you to it." chased a pair of electric socks pow minute of it. Shortly, I saw my wife As I went out of the door and into ered by batteries. The clerks got a walking down the shore towards me the garage, I could swear that I good giggle when she asked innocent at a brisk pace, the cooking fire re heard her say something like, "Lord, ly, "Can I get shocked from them?' flecting in her eyes. The cooking les don't make them bite today." It's been quite a while since any son came to an abrupt halt and she Since I was having a run of bad excitement has been stirred up decided that the smoke from the fire luck, I figured that my chances of around the house as a result of ml wasn't that bad after all. catching something were improving. piscatorial endeavors and peace pre When a friend introduced me to I was also beginning to have second vails. Of course my wife is outnum ice fishing some years ago, I got the thoughts about the emotional prom bered four to one and she's joined bug and invested in a modest inven- ise that I had made. us. We're a fishing family at last! bottles, cap tightly and place them in the other side of the grill. When i{ Blue Trout the ice chest with beer and butter. comes to a boil, drop in the trout and continued from page 19 Pack the salt, thyme and bread in simmer, uncovered, until the trou* it has worked well for me on the the four-quart oven. Wash and dry turns blue; eight to ten minutes- banks of the Chattahoochee in nor the small, new potatoes and pack When they flake easily, take thei" thern Georgia, on the Little Tennes them in the smaller pot. Place the out and coat them with butter. see in eastern Tennessee, and on tops on both pots, and tape them with You will be more than repaid ol many other trout streams. heavy tape. your efforts put forth in this type PJj Here's a few helpful hints. When you are ready to cook, place cooking for the compliments of yoUf In the trunk of your car, take a a log on either side of the fire, and fishing friends and your own satis four-quart cast aluminum dutch oven, straddle them with the grill. faction of the delicate and distinctiv6 a two-quart pot and a wire grill. I Cover the potatoes in the smaller flavor of the trout won't soon be fo*' use the one from my Weber outdoor pot with water, add salt, thyme and gotten. cooker, it must be large enough to put them on one side of the grill to Do as I now do, go after the sma1' hold both pots. Before leaving on boil. Draw the trout, snip off the trout. Use small lures, you're nearly your trip, make the two quarts of fins and dry them. always assured of catching enough mixture as called for in the forego Pour the two quarts of mixture into small trout to provide this kind °' ing recipe. Bottle it in two quart the four-quart oven, and place it on feast. 1 32 P E N N Y LVA NIA ANGLE* Various other salamanders can be found within the Keystone borders. The FOUR-TOED SALAMANDER, the TAKING A CLOSER LOOK state's smallest, lays its eggs in moss overhanging water so that the larvae by Tom Fegely drop in as they hatch. It is also unique in that a special groove around the tail facilitates detachment if a THE UNSEEN AMPHIBIANS along stream borders and under near predator happens to grab it. Other by woodland stones and leaf mold. "tailed" amphibians include the slen PART II Its golden cousin with the handsome der WEHRLE'S SALAMANDER found in "herring bone" suit, the LONG-TAILED 14 western counties and the localized SALAMANDER, is more terrestrial in RAVINE, GREEN and APPALACHIAN SPRING SALAMANDERS (photo A) nature. Most brook salamanders are SEAL SALAMANDERS. his family is grouped together yellow in color, hence they are also by its red, orange or salmon To learn more about these secretive T known as "yellow salamanders". Be and interesting creatures, ask your coloration and black spots. Pennsyl cause the TWO-LINED spends much vania inhabitants include the NORTH local Waterways Patrolman for a time in water it has accustomed itself copy of the Pennsylvania Fish Com ERN RED and NORTHERN SPRING to feeding on stonefly and mayfly SALAMANDERS. AS the family name mission's "Pennsylvania Reptiles and nymphs. The land-roving LONG- Amphibians." Or, for the outdoors- ^plies, they are largely dependent TAILED chases down and eats centi °n springs and other cold, flowing man who is especially interested in pedes, spiders and terrestrial insects "herps," the "Field Guide To Reptiles Waters. There they may take up to found under rocks. three years to lose their gills. By And Amphibians" by Roger Conant, 'hen they are about four inches long NEWTS (EFTS) (photos C and D) curator of the Philadelphia Zoo, will and move onto land. Now their insect The RED-SPOTTED NEWT is prob more than do the job. (Peterson Field and worm diet changes to include ably the best known salamander in Guide Series, Houghton-Mifflin Co.) other smaller salamanders as well, the state. After being born in water Discovering the great variety of ^he NORTHERN RED is sometimes it matures into a "red eft" which is salamanders around the state can be used as bass bait, especially in the often found wandering about the an interesting and educational side South. forest floor after a rainstorm. Upon light to any angling or camping trip. reaching sexual maturity two or three Most of them make good pets and can BROOK SALAMANDERS (photo B) years later, they return to water and be kept in a moist terrarium. Feed The brook salamanders are crea take on a red-spotted, olive coloration. them small worms and insects, slugs, tures of small streams and other wa Here they go through an elaborate or even bits of meat. Why not give ters where predatory fish are few. The courtship and mating ritual, (see "salamandering" a try this summer? NORTHERN TWO-LINED species lives March 1970 Pa. Angler). You just might enjoy it! o V A, •w> (A) Northern Red Salamander (Pseudotriton ruber) t- (B) Long-tailed Salamander (Burycea Longicauda) "^" (C) Red Eft (land stage) (Diemictylus yiridescens) V (D) Red-spotted Newt (water stage) (Diemictylus yiridescens) WW -' **ZaiS*> *&?$?&&& ^\3K;f; ** --J • •••:,.. ' • , *> - - - V u\ "'^^x * '^ ,S' "The Allegheny River—near Tionesta" Photo by Edward T. Gray That's a lot of water out there— and just waiting to be fished! The Pennsylvania Angler tells you when and how. SUBSCRIBE NOW! 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