NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE News and Views from Wisconsin Trout Unlimited PAID PERMIT NO. 1 MADISON, WI Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 It’s banquet time! By Mike Kuhr, Council Vice-Chair there will be plenty of time to social- and 2018 Banquet Committee Chair ize, visit the cash bar, or simply pe- ruse the bucket raffle and silent Do you have a little “cabin fe- auction prizes. Dinner seating will ver”? Not enough open water on begin at 6:30 p.m. your favorite trout stream? Make After dinner we’ll hold a live plans to join your fellow coldwater auction for several different fishing enthusiasts at the 2018 Wisconsin trips with some of the top guides TU Annual Meeting and State and destinations in the state. We’ll Council Banquet on Saturday, Feb- also take time to recognize some of ruary 3. Please save the date and be the best conservationists around a part of the fun in Oshkosh. We with a short awards program. The will once again return to the Best evening will finish with the an- Western Waterfront Hotel and Con- nouncement of our silent auction vention Center. and bucket raffle winners. This location has served us well The Council would like to thank in past years and we’re looking for- all of the chapters and individuals ward to coming back in February. A who donate prizes for the event. limited block of rooms has been set Your generosity makes for a suc- aside for both Friday and Saturday cessful banquet and unforgettable nights. Call the hotel at 855-230- evening for our guests. This year 1900 to make your room reserva- we’ve assembled more than $15,000 tions today. Tell them you’re in town worth of prizes, and we’re eager to for the Trout Unlimited Banquet. give them away! The banquet is our Council’s big- Chapter leaders should plan on gest fundraiser of the year. The ban- attending the State Council meeting quet’s success will allow the Council earlier in the day to discuss Council to continue serving local chapters, business. The meeting will start fund programs like the Youth Camp promptly at 9 a.m. and run until 2 and STREAM Girls, support our p.m. Please RSVP to Council Chair Veterans Service Partnership pro- Linn Beck if you plan on attending grams, and help administer our the meeting so we can prepare for Friends of Wisconsin and Water- lunch. shed Access grant programs. The State Council will also be Tickets are $35 each. For more sponsoring a Women’s Fly Fishing information see the ad on the back Clinic for beginners who are curious Mike Kuhr page of this issue of Wisconsin about the sport during the day on Trout. You may also purchase tick- Saturday, Feb. 4. This free clinic will ets online at http://wistu.bpt.me. run from 9:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. A CELEBRATE OUR COLDWATER RESOURCES While we do plan for a few walk-ups lunch will be provided. Space is lim- Come help us celebrate cold, clean, fishable water, and honor those who’ve every year, ordering tickets in ad- ited, so contact Heidi Oberstadt at made a difference. Consider Attending the Wisconsin State Council annual vance or making arrangements to [email protected]. banquet on February 3 in Oshkosh. pay at the door and RSVP’ing to We’ve found that these types of [email protected] are highly events are a great way to introduce the work of the Banquet Commit- We’re focused on planning a fun, encouraged. This event is open to trout stream ecology and the impor- tee. An event of this scale wouldn’t entertaining and successful banquet. the public, so please consider bring- tance of TU’s conservation work to happen without the efforts of com- We hope you’ll join us in Oshkosh ing family, friends, co-workers and a new audience. mittee members Bill Heart, Heidi on February 3 to celebrate cold, neighbors. All are welcome. Much planning has already taken Oberstadt, Jim Wierzba, Linn Beck, clean, fishable water in Wisconsin. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. and place and the Council is indebted to Paul Kruse and Todd Franklin. Mining update Michigan’s Back Forty Mine moves a step closer to realty, while Wisconsin lawmakers repeal the “Prove it First” sulfide mining law. By Matt Krueger ments can also be submitted by mail to: DEQ Up- sin and Michigan. per Peninsula District Office WRD, 1507 W. Tight Lines Fly Fishing Company is hosting a Back Forty Mine Washington Street, Marquette, MI 49855, Attn: fundraising event on Saturday, January 6 in On December 8 the Michigan Department of Back Forty Mine. Green Bay to raise awareness about the dangers Environmental Quality (DEQ) deemed Aquila Though the mine is now closer to reality, so is of the proposed Back Forty Mine, which will fea- Resources’ application for the Back Forty Mine opposition to it. The Menominee Indian Tribe of ture advocates from the Coalition to Save the “administratively complete,” representing anoth- Wisconsin has filed a Notice of Intent(NOI) to Menominee River and the River Alliance of Wis- er step closer to a massive, open-pit sulfide mine sue the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers consin, as well as a gear raffle. operating within a long cast of the Menominee over jurisdictional issues. The Tribe contends that River, the border river between Wisconsin and EPA/USACE jurisdictional authority should su- “Prove It First” mining law repealed the U.P. of Michigan. persede the authority of Michigan DEQ on the mining permit, as the permit affects a river of in- On December 11 Governor Walker signed SB A public hearing on the wetland permit, the 395/AB 499, which is a full repeal of the biparti- last of four permits required to complete Aquila's terstate commerce. Currently, Michigan DEQ has sole authority san “Prove It First” sulfide mining law that re- application, has been scheduled by DEQ for Jan- quired would-be mining operations in Wisconsin uary 23, 2018 at 6 p.m. at the Stephenson High on decisions related to the mining permit. A re- sponse from EPA/Army Corps on the NOI is ex- to prove that they have done so in a similar cli- School gym, W526 Division Street, Stephenson, mate, without polluting during mine operation or Michigan. Written comments on the proposed pected by early January 2018. If the federal agencies do not assume jurisdictional authority on 10 years after closure. The bill passed after seven mine can be submitted until February 2, 2018 amendments were added to it. The law will not be to https://miwaters.deq.state.mi.us/miwaters/#/ the permit, the Menominee Tribe is expected to file a lawsuit. Additionally, the wetland permit is enacted for six months, to give local communities external/publicnotice/info/3338938032851742207/ time to update their zoning and ordinances. comments by clicking on "add comment.” Com- also receiving considerable scrutiny from wetland experts, working with water advocates in Wiscon- Page 2 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018

Wisconsin TU chapters, presidents and contact information Aldo Leopold (#375): Mike Stapleton, W8002 Whitetail Drive, Pard- eeville, WI 53954; (608) 742-3665; [email protected]; aldoleopold.tu.org Antigo (#313): Scott Henricks, 213 Mary St., Antigo, WI 54409-2536 (715) 623-3867; [email protected] WILD RIVERS Blackhawk (#390): Terry Vaughn; 4710 E. Creek Road, Beloit, WI 53511; (608) 362-4295; [email protected]; Bayfield Douglas NORTHWOODS www.BlackhawkTU.org Central Wisconsin (#117): Laura Tucker; N5424 Sunny Hill Rd, Sax- Iron Ashland eville, 54976 (920) 622-5401; [email protected]; cwtu.org, Vilas Coulee Region (#278): Curt Rees; W5190 Birchwood Lane, La- Burnett Washburn Crosse, WI 54601; [email protected]

Sawyer Price Florence www.CouleeRegionTU.org Oneida Forest Fox Valley (#193): Nate Ratliff, 199 Taylor Street, Little Chute, MARINETTE Polk Rusk 54140 (920) 851-0502; [email protected]; Barron Marinette www.foxvalleytu.org ANTIGO GREEN BAY Lincoln Frank Hornberg (#624): Matt Salchert, 1800 Minnesota Ave., Ste- Taylor Langlade WOLF vens Point, WI 54481 (715) 321-1394; [email protected]; RIVER St. Croix Chippewa www.Hornberg-TU.org Dunn WISCONSIN Menominee RIVER VALLEY Oconto Green Bay (#083): Staush Gruszynski, 1715 Deckner Ave., Green OCONTO WI CLEAR Marathon Bay, 54302 (920) 216-3793; [email protected]; Shawano RIVER Clark WATERS Door greenbaytu.org Pierce Eau Claire SHAW-PACA Kewaunee Harry & Laura Nohr (#257): Tim Fraley, 2 Pagham Court, Madison, Pepin Wood Waupaca WI 53719; hm:(608) 271-1733; c:(608)220-0762; Portage Buffalo Outagamie Brown [email protected]; www.NohrTU.org FOX Jackson FRANK HORNBERG VALLEY Kiap-TU-Wish (#168): Tom Schnadt, 2174 Commonwealth Ave., St. Trempealeau Manitowoc Waushara Winnebago Calumet Paul, MN 55108; 651-245-5163; [email protected]; KIAP-TU-WISH LAKESHORE Adams CENTRAL www.kiaptuwish.org Monroe La Crosse Juneau WISCONSIN Marquette Lakeshore (#423): Myk Hranicka, N2766 Hopeman Heights, Waldo, Sheboygan Green WI 53093; 920-627-5779; [email protected]; www.Wisconsin- Lake Fond du Lac TU.org/Lakeshore Vernon ALDO LEOPOLD Marinette (#422): Dale Lange, N2095 CTH BB, Marinette, WI; 715- Dodge Ozaukee Columbia 582-1135; [email protected], marinettecounty.tu.org. Richland Sauk Washington Northwoods (#256): Jay N. Joppa; 8570 Oak Park Circle, Minocqua, Crawford WI 54548; (715) 499-1022; [email protected]; COULEE Dane Jefferson Waukesha Milwaukee SOUTHEASTERN northwoods.tu.org REGION Iowa WISCONSIN Grant SOUTHERN WISCONSIN Oconto River (#385): Tom Klatt; 1677 Forest Glen Drive Green Bay, WI 54304 (920) 621-9266; [email protected]; ocontorivertu.com Rock Walworth Racine Lafayette Green Shaw-Paca (#381): Nate Sipple, 931 E. Fifth St., Shawano, WI

HARRY & Kenosha 54166; (715) 304-7581; [email protected]; Wisconsin- LAURA NOHR TU.org/ShawPaca; www.facebook.com/shawpacatu Southeastern Wisconsin (#078): Todd Durian; 4724 W. Blue Mound BLACKHAWK Road, Milwaukee, 53186; [email protected]; 414-403-5670; SEWTU.org; facebook.com/southeastwisconsintroutunlimited Southern Wisconsin (#061): Matt Sment; 608-218-4133; fis- [email protected]; P.O. Box 45555, Madison, WI 53744- 5555; www.swtu.org Wild Rivers (#415): Bob Rice 74355 Kaukamo Road, Iron River, WI Visit the Wisconsin State Council’s 54847; (715) 292-1143; [email protected] www.wisconsintu.org/wildrivers web site at wicouncil.tu.org, or find Wisconsin Clear Waters (#255): Dick Duplessie, 335 Corydon Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 (715) 577-5805; [email protected]; WisconsinTU.org/ClearWaters us on Facebook. Wisconsin River Valley (#395): Doug Brown, R4800 Timber Lane, Ringle, WI 54471; [email protected]; 715-899-0024; www.wrvtu.org Wolf River (#050): Andy Killoren, N1493 Hwy 45, Fremont, WI 54940; (920) 667-5385; [email protected]; WolfriverTU.org State Council Leadership Are you getting emails from TU? State Chair: Linn Beck, 160 W. Education: Bob Haase, W7949 19th Ave., Oshkosh, WI 54902 Treptow Ln., Eldorado, WI 54932 If you are currently not receiving news and event-related email (920) 216-7408; (920) 922-8003 (H); messages from your chapter, the state council and TU National, [email protected] [email protected] then you are truly missing out on what’s happening at all three lev- Vice Chair: Mike Kuhr, 6103 Friends of WITU and Watershed els. TU National manages the mailing list for the council and chap- Queensway, Monona, WI 53716; Access Fund: Doug Brown, R4800 (414) 588-4281; Timber Ln., Ringle, WI 54471 ters, so update your address by going to www.tu.org, log in, then go [email protected] (715) 899-0024; to “Email Preferences.” You can also call 1-800-834-2419 to make Secretary: Tom Lager, 1700 Spring [email protected] these changes, or to ask questions about making the changes via Hill Ct., Neenah, WI 54956; Legal Counsel: Open the web site. (920) 540-9194; Legislative Chair: Henry Koltz [email protected] Membership: Chair Paul Kruse, Treasurer: Gary Stoychoff, 1326 500 Saint Jude St., Green Bay, WI 14th Ave., Green Bay, WI 54304 54303 (920) 494-4220); WISCONSIN TROUT [email protected] [email protected]; Vol. 30, No. 1— Winter 2018 National Trustee: Henry Koltz, National Leadership Council 2300 N. Mayfair Rd., Ste. 1175, Representative: Kim McCarthy, Wisconsin Trout is the official publication of the Wisconsin Council of Milwaukee, WI 53226 (414) 331- 736 Meadowbrook Ct., Green Trout Unlimited and is distributed to the members of Wisconsin’s 21 5679 (H); [email protected] Bay, WI 54313 (920) 434-3659; TU chapters. Non-member subscriptions are $12.50/year. Publication Vice Chair, Central Region: [email protected] dates are the first weeks of January, April, July and October. Dead- To m L a g e r , s e e a b o v e Trout In the Classroom Coordina- lines for articles and advertisements are the 10th of December, March, Vice Chair, Northeast Region: tor: Greg Olson, 16370 Division June and September. For a current advertising rate sheet, contact the Doug Erdmann, 2418 Woodview St., Lakeland MN, 55043; editor. Lane, Marinette, WI 54143; 715- [email protected] 735-7407; Veterans Services Partnership Co- Photo/article contributions, letters to the editor and advertisements [email protected] ordinator: Mike Kuhr are welcomed. Submit to: Vice Chair, Southern Region: Jim Water Resources: Bob Obma, Wierzba, 2817 Country Club Todd Franklin, Editor 12870 West Shore Drive, Moun- 2515 Bigler Circle Drive, Mequon, WI 53092 (262) tain, WI 54149 (715) 276-1170 (H) 238-0282; [email protected] Verona, WI 53593 [email protected] (608) 516-3647 Vice Chair, Western Region: Gary Website: Brandon Schmalz, 1229 [email protected] Horvath, 623 W. Pine Street, River Goss Ave., Menasha, WI 54952; Falls, WI 54806 (715)425-8489; [email protected] 920-851-8129; State Council Officers [email protected] Executive Committee includes officers and vice chairs Awards: Bill Heart, 29450 Verners Women’s Initiatives: Road, Ashland, WI 54806; (715) Linn Beck, Chair Mike Kuhr, Vice Chair 209-0431;[email protected] Heidi Oberstadt, 456 Wadleigh St., Stevens Point, WI 54481; 715-573- Communications: Open 5104; [email protected] Tom Lager, Secretary Gary Stoychoff, Treasurer Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 3 Chairman’s Column Another great year for TU is in the books And 2018 promises to be even better, with plenty of opportunities for growth and volunteerism I hope all of you had a safe and veloping these programs, reaching wonderful holiday season, with ev- out and giving people the chance to eryone getting exactly what you experience something new and ex- wanted for Christmas. And, of citing. course, with the holiday season end- Chapters that add these types of ing, it also marked the end of a very programs and make an effort to pro- great year for TU. mote them are seeing their mem- Wisconsin Trout Unlimited chap- bership rosters, and membership ters had almost 45,000 volunteer involvement, grow. hours for the 2017 fiscal year. These As for the many conservation hours were spread out over 79 con- battles we’ve endured in 2017, I servation projects and 96 youth edu- want to thank all of you for your cation projects. It was a support. And while I’m at it, thanks phenomenal year and job well done in advance for all we will ask of you by all of you. in 2018. We will need everyone’s I know that 2018 will be even bet- help on the proposed wetlands bill, ter as we continue to develop our and many other important conserva- youth education and veterans pro- tion issues. grams. There are a lot of opportuni- Thank you for a great 2017. I’m ties to give our youth and veterans a looking forward to an even better chance to experience all that Trout 2018. Unlimited has to offer, and to let Tight Lines, them show what they can offer to us. Linn STATE COUNCIL CHAIR LINN BECK It’s exciting to see our chapters de- LETTERS WITU Youth Fishing Camp marking fifth year More debate on the Didymo-angler connection A letter in the Fall 2017 issue of Wisconsin Trout absolved anglers and This year marks the fifth anniver- We will be accepting 20 youth for felt boots from helping to spread didymo, known as “rock snot.” I had sary of the WITU Youth Fishing the camp this year, and all chapters previously written an article about some unpleasant experiences I en- Camp. What a great ride it has been have an opportunity to sponsor at countered on Rapid Creek in South Dakota with didymo blooms. At that for all of us involved, as we’ve least one student. After February time I mentioned a conversation with a grad student who said the best watched group after group of won- 28, chapters can sponsor additional guess is that the didymo entered Rapid Creek from the boots of fisher- derful youths experience all that is students. Don’t hesitate. Nominate men. great about fishing, conservation, your students soon. The followup letter by Henry Kanemoto, mentioned above, quoted comraderie and more. We’ve worked hard to keep costs several studies that seem to indicate that didymo has been found in core It has been especially gratifying in line, and sponsorship is still only samples dating back many years and that it is now forming mats because to see the ongoing support from $250 per student. of low phosphorus environments that have been created by eliminating chapters, which have been instru- If you know of a youth who is in- phosphorus from detergents, cleaning agents and lawn fertilizer. mental in sending us and sponsoring terested in attending, or you have The conclusion of those studies leaves me with a question. The fact is these many great kids. All of our any questions, please contact me at that during human history detergents, cleaning agents and artificial lawn chapters have made sure that any [email protected] or 920-216-7408, fertilizers containing phosphorus are all relatively new products. Those youth interested in attending has re- or Wayne Parmley at wparm- products did not exist for most of human history. So, if a suggestion is ceived a chance to experience the [email protected] or 920-540-2315. made that the removal of the phosphorus from those products has caused camp. If you are interested in being a the mat forming of didymo in some creeks, I would expect that didymo This year’s camp is July 19-22. volunteer, mentor or “guide,” should have been rampant in the pristine early settlement times prior to Kids will check in at 1 p.m. on please contact Wayne at the above the existence of those products. It would be interesting to search historic Thursday, and we will wrap up contact information. records to see how much mention of didymo is contained in historic jour- shortly after lunch on Sunday. As in Thanks for your support. We nals. past years, the camp will be held at hope to see you in camp this sum- The studies also conclude that iron must be present in streams with Pine Lake Bible Camp between mer. low phosphorus to have didymo form mats. Another question I would Wild Rose and Waupaca. —Linn Beck have deals with the fact that some low phosphorus streams with iron do not have didymo blooms while some others with similar conditions do. I am not as quick as some to absolve my fellow fishermen from all blame. I will continue to be concerned that if I collect didymo or other in- vasives on my gear and then transport those species to another stream with similar water chemistry, I could be helping unwanted species to spread. My preference will always be to err on the safe side. I will continue to clean my gear after a day on a stream that I know harbors didymo or any other potentially harmful species. I would still encourage my fellow an- glers to do the same. —Kim McCarthy, Green Bay Page 4 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 Isolated wetlands legislation New Zealand mudsnails found Republican bill would remove protections in two new streams for 20 percent, or 1 million acres, of Two recent discoveries of the in- mudsnails,” said Krueger. “An an- vasive New Zealand mudsnail gler fishes in an infested stream like Wisconsin’s remaining wetlands. (Potamopyrgus antipodarum) in Black Earth Creek, picks up mud southern Wisconsin trout streams and mudsnails on his or her boots, By Matt Krueger and Mike Kuhr ticular, and angling in general, indicate not only are the invasive and doesn’t disinfect the muddy provide to our state. A 2013 study snails spreading, but anglers are boots or waders after fishing. The Wisconsin legislators have re- by the American Sportfishing As- likely spreading them. next week, the same angler enters a cently introduced legislation that sociation (ASA) found that Wis- With Wisconsin DNR’s an- new stream, the mud containing the seeks to significantly roll back consin was the third-highest- nouncement this week of mud- still-live snail drops off, and a new statewide wetlands protections, ranked state in the number of snails in Rowan and Mount Vernon infestation has begun.” which could potentially harm cold- non-resident anglers. creeks, the number of trout streams It is essential that wading an- water habitat and trout streams We know the fishing’s good in the region infested with the snails glers, as well as other stream users around the state. The Wisconsin here, and apparently so does the grows to four (Black Earth Creek such as paddlers and water quality State Council of Trout Unlimited rest of the country. According to snails were discovered in October monitors, prevent the spread of is opposed to this legislation, the ASA report, angling results in 2013, and Badger Mill Creek in De- mudsnails and other invasive spe- which is currently being consid- more than $1.4 billion in retail cember 2016). There are no other cies by inspecting equipment and ered in the Legislature. sales each year in our state. known infestations of the snail in removing all plants, animals, mud Authored by Republican Sena- All told, recreational angling inland Wisconsin streams. and debris, prior to leaving a tor Roger Roth and Republican creates more than $2.2 billion in “The recent discoveries of New stream. Then, drain all water from Representatives Jim Steineke and annual economic impact for Wis- Zealand mudsnails in two more gear and equipment prior to leaving Rob Stafsholt, the legislation consin’s economy. southern Wisconsin streams are tru- stream, allowing to fully dry for at seeks to remove protections for The Wisconsin State Council ly a call to action to those who rec- least 26 days before next use. Final- “non-federal” wetlands, which of Trout Unlimited recognizes that reate on rivers and streams, ly, in the case of New Zealand mud- make up an estimated 20 percent wetlands, even if “isolated” or particularly, wading anglers,” said snails, we can all take additional of Wisconsin’s total wetland acre- “ephemeral” (another term for Matt Krueger, River Restoration steps, such as scrubbing gear (espe- age, or approximately one million non-federal wetlands), have a vital Program Director of the River Alli- cially boots) with a brush, freezing acres. connection to trout streams. For ance of Wisconsin. “It’s alarming gear, or soaking it in 120°F water. Non-federal wetlands lack a this reason, the council joins fel- how quickly these snails are spread- Anglers should avoid the use of permanent surface water connec- low sporting organizations in op- ing. If we are to protect other felt-soled wading boots to decrease tion to waterbodies like lakes and posing this legislation. streams from their negative im- the likelihood of spreading invasive rivers that are protected by the Other opponents of the bill in- pacts, anglers need to make ‘clean species to other streams, or use a Clean Water Act. However, these clude the Wisconsin Wetlands As- angling’ disinfection practices a different pair of wading boots while wetlands provide a host of other sociation, Ducks Unlimited, the common part of their pre-and post- allowing the other pair to dry for 26 benefits, such as critical supply of Sierra Club, the Nature Conser- fishing routine.” days. groundwater to coldwater vancy and the Wisconsin Wildlife The New Zealand mudsnail is Response efforts to the recent streams, particularly in headwa- Federation highly invasive in western states and infestations of New Zealand mud- ters sections, as well as protection Supporters of the bill include is known to reach high abundances, snails are being initiated by a coali- against flooding, erosion, and nu- Wisconsin Manufacturers & Com- outcompete native stream insects tion including the River Alliance of trient pollution. These wetlands merce, the Wisconsin Farm Bu- that serve as food for fish such as Wisconsin, Wisconsin Department also provide habitat for diverse reau Federation, the Dairy trout, and can alter the natural of Natural Resources, local Trout plant, animal and bird species. Business Association, as well as functions of streams. Unlimited chapters, Upper Sugar For more information on iso- cranberry growers and the state It remains to be seen what im- River Watershed Association, Low- lated wetlands, see the articles on builders association. pacts the snail will have on streams er Sugar River Watershed Associa- pages 14 and 15 of this issue of TU members are encouraged in Wisconsin, but there is concern is tion and Southwest Badger Wisconsin Trout. to contact their legislators and that they will affect the health of Resource Conservation & Develop- If this legislation moves for- voice their opposition to this legis- trout. Research on the Black Earth ment Council. ward, development of these wet- lation. Watch your email for State Creek mudsnail infestation shows —River Alliance of Wisconsin lands could occur without a permit Council alerts, which include all that the in-stream population is or DNR oversight, provided the the necessary information for con- rapidly expanding. developer pays into a mitigation tacting your own representatives, While it’s hard to know defini- Scott W. Grady tively how aquatic invasive species fund to create artificial wetlands as well as those on the committees Rodmaker elsewhere. which will determine whether the get transported, in all probability Our members value the recre- bills go to the full legislature. wading anglers are spreading New ational opportunities that the If you haven’t been receiving Zealand mudsnails. “Here’s a very woods and waters of Wisconsin of- emails from the State Council, real scenario that is likely spreading Split Bamboo Rods fer. contact TU National and make New, repairs, restoration, appraisals We also recognize the econom- sure they have your current email Rodmaking Tools and Advice ic impacts that trout fishing in par- address. Donate to TU Call or email Scott for details at Legislative update via Thrivent 920/687-0987 or [email protected] News on the GLRI, public Lutheran lands and Asian Carp If you are a TU member and have investments with Thrivent By Taylor Ridderbusch protect public lands revered by hunters and anglers, such as the Ar- Lutheran Financial, you may Great Lakes Restoration kansas River in Colorado and Rio have the ability to make chari- Initiative Grande del Norte in New Mexico. table donations to groups of In November the Senate Appro- This law has been used equally priations Committee released the by Republicans and Democrats your choosing through Thrivent alike, often when other stakeholder- FY 2018 Interior and Environment Financial’s Thrivent Choice pro- funding bill, which includes $300 driven efforts to conserve important million for the Great Lakes Resto- habitat and sporting opportunities gram. ration Initiative (GLRI). TU will have stalled in Congress. For more continue to work with Congress to information, and to contact your The Wisconsin Council of TU is ensure that the GLRI receives full representatives visit http://stand- funding annually. For an in-depth up.tu.org/protect-our-public-lands/. now a listed entity within the look at GLRI dollars at work in the Thrivent Choice program. Great Lakes region, check out the Asian carp feature in the Winter 2018 edition The U.S. Army Corps of Engi- If you are a Thrivent member of TROUT Magazine. neers concluded its public comment period in December regarding the and have the ability to make Public Lands report which outlined various plans Thrivent Choice donations, we Elevate your fly fishing to a new In early December the Trump for addressing the spread of Asian level. The Original BlueSky Carp at the Brandon Road Lock would be honored if you’d con- administration announced it would Furled Leader. Sizes for all fish & be cutting two national monuments and Dam. TU is hopeful that the sider including the Wisconsin in Utah, Bears Ears and the Grand- Corps will move forward with the fishing conditions. BlueSky - the Staircase Escalante, by 85 percent Tentatively Selected Plan (Technol- Council of TU within your chari- leader in furled leaders.TM ogy Alternative: Electric Barrier and by more than 50 percent, re- table planning, and making a FurledLeaders.com spectively. This jeopardizes the 112- with Complex Noise) and will con- year-old Antiquities Act, a conser- tinue to urge the Corps to expedite donation to our cause. [email protected] • Ph/Fax 920-822-5396 vation tool that has been used to the completion of the project. 1237 Yurek Rd., Pulaski WI 54162 USA Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 5 TOUR BY BUS...AND BY TRACTOR Northeast Region pledges $49K for habitat projects By Laura MacFarland, TU Great Lakes Stream Restoration Manager and Doug Erdmann, Northeast Region Vice Chair In early December seven chapters from the northeast region met at the Timberhaven Bar & Grill in Polar and pledged $49,500 for habitat projects in 2018. Those chapters were the Wild Rivers, Northwoods, Green Bay, Mari- nette, Oconto, Wolf River and Antigo.

The funding included: • $15,500 to help fund the Lakewood habitat crew.

Dennis Barth • $15,000 to help fund the Antigo habitat crew. • $5,000 for beaver control on Hauer Creek in Sawyer County The first hayride in Driftless Project Bus Tour history helped a busload of folks • $5,000 for the North Branch Oconto River restoration. get to the streamside along Mill Creek near Chatfield, Minnesota. The mid- • $4,000 for Spring Meadow dam removal in Vilas County. October tour focused on several innovative Minnesota projects on Mill, Pine • $3,000 for fuel to dredge Mayking Flowage in Langlade County and Rush Creek and Garvin Brook west of Winona. Stream designers and • $2,000 for a fisheries technician for the U.S. Forest Service. equipment operators viewed projects and questioned those who’d produced TU Great Lakes Stream Restoration Manager Laura MacFarland also re- them. The goal of these TUDARE-sponsored tours is to encourage exchange of ceived a grant earlier this year for $36,000 from the National Fish and Wild- information and techniques across the entire Driftless Area. life Foundation Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Program 2017, to improve the North Branch of the Oconto River. This grant will provide an additional $13,000 for the Lakewood habitat crew and $5,000 for U.S. Forest Service fisheries technicians who will partner with Trout Unlimited to im- prove instream habitat and fishability through the Town of Wabeno. We are grateful to everyone who help make these projects a reality.

Give us your Is there anything you’d like feedback to see more of? Are there any specific topics you’d like us to As a Wisconsin TU cover? member, Wisconsin Trout is your publication. We welcome your suggestions Do you like the addition of Get your TU license plate at www.dot.state.wi.us/ and hope you will take a color to select pages? few minutes to give us drivers/vehicles/personal/special/trout.htm your feedback. Please share your ideas, suggestions, comments What do you like about and criticisms by sending Wisconsin Trout? them to toddfranklinwis Two TUDARE [email protected]. events coming soon “The meaning of life is to find your gift.

Driftless Symposium benefit from a widely diverse group The purpose of life is to give it away.” During the past decade, of planners. William Shakespeare TUDARE’s Driftless Symposium in For registration, agenda and oth- La Crosse has become one of the er information, check out DAresto- go-to events where scientists, re- ration.com. searchers and volunteers interested in Driftless Area watershed restora- Westby Project Planning Remember TU as Part of tion gather to exchange informa- Workshop tion. Speakers report on their A wide range of aspects of orga- Your Legacy research on coldwater streams and nizing good watershed restoration their denizens. Technicians talk projects will be the focus of the Have you considered making Trout about techniques they are develop- Westby Project Planning Workshop ing in the numerous stream projects April 7-8 at Living Waters Bible carried out in this region each year. Camp, in the headwaters of the Unlimited part of your legacy? For loyal TU On February 5 and 6 they’ll meet West Fork of the Kickapoo River. at the La Crosse Convention Cen- This biennial workshop has trained members, making a bequest to TU in your ter for a day and a half of informa- more than 500 people from across tive sessions, idea exchange and the Midwest how to organize, fund will or trust is a wonderful way to continue social opportunities. Costs are ex- and carry out quality stream resto- pected to be about $90 for the en- ration projects. Past workshops supporting clean water and healthy trout tire event, including materials, have had sessions on fund-raising, symposium events, meals and a building partnerships, carrying out populations. Help assure that TU is able to Monday evening social at the quality work days, media outreach Freighthouse Restaurant. and inviting a wide range of com- continue its good work now and into the “We’ve got a great lineup com- munity groups to participate. ing together for the Symposium,” The Westby workshop includes said TUDARE Project Manager notable speakers from across the future. Jeff Hastings. “We’ll have keynote region, entertaining speakers in- speakers, talks on brook trout ge- cluding authors and poets, and oc- Should you decide that TU is worthy of netics research and riparian resto- casional surprises. You’ll come ration by the pros who are doing it away with a handy manual for your a legacy bequest, be sure to specify in your in the streams, and a whole series chapter or council’s future projects. highlighting the research that’s Not only that, but it takes place as will or trust if the bequest is intended to been done on the impacts of the trout fishing on area streams really restoration that TUDARE and its starts to heat up. benefit National TU, the State Council or partners are doing. It should be a More information on agenda, stimulating two days.” costs, and lodging will be provided your local chapter. An in-depth look at conservation on the TU Driftless Area Restora- in the Tainter Creek watershed in tion Effort Facebook page and at Crawford and Vernon counties will DArestoration.com. Low-cost lodg- Thank you for considering Trout include talks on grazing, prairie ing can be arranged at the Bible strips and how to evaluate impacts Camp and numerous motels serve Unlimited in your estate planning. of restoration. University of Minne- anglers in the Westby, Viroqua and sota Professor Mary Marczak will Coon Valley areas. discuss how project planning can —Duke Welter Page 6 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 Commentary A personal history of the Driftless Area’s amazing trout recovery Retired DNR Fisheries Biologist Dave Vetrano experienced — and played a huge role in — the amazing transformation of southwest Wisconsin into a world-class trout fishery. By David Vetrano, inches in length they become almost Not surprisingly, anglers began (7-9 inches) be available when the Retired DNR Fisheries Biologist for total “piscivores.” They want to eat to discover the Driftless Area as streams were stocked in late April the LaCrosse Area. meat. Although there were not ma- word of the improving fishery made before the May opener. ny fish in the streams, trout over 20 it through angling circles. Anglers The only way for the hatcheries I thought it might be time for me inches were caught each year. from more than 50 miles away be- to accomplish this was to take more to clear up any misconceptions By the mid 1980’s things started gan to fish streams the local anglers eggs from early spawners and hold there are about my statement on to change. A serious downturn in had called their own for many years. the subsequent fingerlings over for the so-called “Wisconsin Trout the farm economy left many pro- Many of these new anglers were a whole year. Even if these fish sur- Wars” by those who know me and ducers unable to compete. High not as interested in filling the creel vived to spawn after stocking, their think I may have “drank the Kool- mortgage interest rates and low as they were in perfecting their fish- young would emerge from the redds Aid.” Most of my comments are commodity prices forced many ing techniques and enjoying the in the middle of winter. Not the eas- meant for the farmers out, “Zen” qualities that come from iest time to survive when stream Driftless Area, idling thou- Driftless stream temperatures are and especially the sands of acres fishing. cold and food La Crosse Area. If more liberal of land. Some In the late availability is low. When I started relief came 1980’s, I became a Because of the in La Crosse in regulations are the with the 1985 member of the high numbers of 1980, most area answer to reversing the Farm Bill that DNR Trout Com- trout that biolo- streams were paid landown- mittee. Our charge gists were de- much different “serious decline in trout ers with highly was to use science manding, the than they are to- fishing,” why am I not erodible lands to come up with a hatcheries were day. There was al- to plant them new set of regula- forced to crowd most no natural seeing an increase in with cover tions to manage raceways and feed reproduction. bait anglers? crops. trout in Wisconsin. in the easiest The streams As perennial In my naiveté, I manner possible. were wide, shal- vegetation in- thought one could This usually low with little creased on for- put 8 or 9 fisheries meant feeding by overhead cover mer cropland, biologists in the hand. This trained and significantly warmer. Streams we started to see more groundwater same room to talk fish to feed when like Timber Coulee were full of percolation of rainwater and snow- trout and we they saw a silhou- carp, redhorse suckers and creek melt. This resulted in more base would be out in a ette or shadow on chubs. flow (water seeping into the stream few hours with a the raceway, The only real trout fishery was from the land on both sides), more finished product. which is not a supplied by the tens of thousands of spring flow and colder water tem- It took us two DAVID VETRANO good survival domestic strain brook, brown and peratures. years to come up technique when rainbow trout that were stocked in In 1984, I changed the way we with a regulation package that we they are stocked in a stream full of the same streams and in the same did trout habitat restoration by add- hoped would address the changing anglers, kingfishers, otters and blue numbers that they had been for de- ing a 4:1 slope to the stream banks, attitudes of anglers as well as maxi- herons. cades. reconnecting them to their flood- mizing all of the state’s complex and To get around this, some of us Although there was an early plain. We also developed LUNK- dynamic water bodies’ ability to pro- started to transfer wild trout from “kill” season, most of the fishing ERS structures that were easy to duce trout. one stream to another. This worked pressure occurred with the tradi- construct on site and reduced in- The rule package was never until diseases such as viral hemor- tional May opener when most an- stallation costs by 30 percent and meant to be the final effort on man- rhagic septicemia (VHS) arrived. So glers fished for the recently stocked maintenance costs by more than 90 aging trout. Many of the rule pro- we looked at developing a statewide hatchery trout that had not moved percent. After habitat restoration, posals had not been tried before. wild trout program that would pro- far from the bridge holes they were we saw trout numbers in many But we would never learn to man- vide feral strains of both brook and stocked in days before. streams increase by 1,500 percent. age trout better if we didn’t try brown trout to stock into streams Car counts and creel surveys Carryover of stocked trout in- some new concepts. Any good sci- where conditions were improving showed heavy fishing pressure the creased as stream conditions im- entist knows failures are successes. and natural reproduction was al- first weekend. After the second proved, allowing fish to occupy With that in mind, we also imple- most a certainty. weekend only the most dedicated stream segments formerly too warm mented a process to monitor these In La Crosse, using some hatch- anglers were fishing for the few for most of the season. By the end rules with the ing trays that we trout that had survived the opening of the decade we began to find (for intent to simpli- borrowed from weekend onslaught. the first time) natural reproduction fy overlapping the Wild Rose For those anglers, fishing could of brown trout in a number of regulations, and “I was witness to an hatchery, we con- be good. The survivors had an streams. get rid of those amazing trout recovery verted an old abundant food supply in the more This phenomenon was also ob- that did not in my career with the springhouse, than 20 species of forage fish avail- served by my peers in other parts of meet their origi- which was once able so growth rates were good. the Driftless Area in Wisconsin, as nal intentions. DNR. I hope the next used to cool milk, When brown trout reach 12-13 well as Minnesota and Iowa. As expect- generation will not see into a small co- ed, the rule vert hatchery on changes were it disappear.” state land. not totally ac- Using what I cepted by the learned spawning entire angling suckers for musky community. A few streams that had feed, we stripped eggs and milt from been open to harvest were now feral spawning brook and brown “catch and release and artificial trout. The eggs were hatched and lures” only. We were accused of ca- eventually transferred to an outside tering to an elite few, especially fly raceway where they were held until anglers at the expense of those who the following spring and stocked as preferred spinners or live bait, even what are called “holdovers.” though 96 percent of state streams To reduce human contact, the had no bait restrictions. fish were fed using timed, automatic At the same time as the Trout feeders that only dispensed during Committee meetings, several of us the daytime. We also placed covers biologists toyed with the idea of along the raceways to acclimate the stocking our streams with more young fish to overhead cover. Be- “wild” trout strains. Hatchery fish tween 1990 and 1994, three to eight were designed to grow big and fast, thousand feral trout were raised Todd Franklin Todd but lacked some basic survival char- each year and stocked in La Crosse- acteristics. area streams. Most streams were re- NATIONAL TU LEADERS TOUR DRIFTLESS STREAMS In their defense, the hatcheries classified to Class I as better surviv- The success of trout stream restoration and wild stocking efforts in southwest were only responding to the fisher- al and more natural reproduction Wisconsin convinced Trout Unlimited to hold its national meeting in Middleton ies biologists’ requests. When we occurred. in 2013. On this day two tour buses filled with TU leaders from throughout the filled out our trout quotas each Understandably, leaders at the country witness a shocking demonstration on Iowa County’s Blue River. year, we demanded legal size fish DNR’s central office in Madison Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 7

the biology. Because every angler It was common knowledge by who fishes for trout in Wisconsin most anglers that the early season buys a trout stamp, my job was to back then was the time to catch provide as many different angling those bigger trout. They were hun- opportunities as possible to all of gry, concentrated in a few pools and the different user groups. because of the colder temperatures, A live bait angler had just as not the “tackle busters” they are in much “say” as did a dry fly angler. If the warmer, regular season. I have I stepped into the world of “social” no doubt larger brown trout would fisheries management, I would put again be more vulnerable to early myself in a position I could not de- season harvest. fend biologically. I wish the small group of vocal While I did say there could be no anglers would be more concerned size limit and no bag limit on the about the true “war on trout” that waters I once managed, that is not comes in the form of the current po- the same as saying that current man- litical interference in resource man- agement is a disaster. I have ob- agement. High-capacity well served, and recent creel surveys proliferation, concentrated animal confirm, that on most streams in my feeding operations (CAFO’s), the To d d Fr a n k larea, i n anglers do not keep fish, re- continued erosion of the Public gardless of the regulation, period. Trust Doctrine, sulfide mining and THEY COME FROM HOURS AWAY TO FISH AND TO HELP One of my favorite streams has a the absolute denial that climate TU members from near and far, such as volunteers like Stan Zarnowecki (left) 10-fish bag limit with no size limit. I change could exist are far stronger travel often from hours away to help with stream restoration projects and recommended this regulation be- threats to our coldwater resource fore I retired. This is my go-to than a 3- or 5-fish bag limit is. It provide financial support for restoration efforts. This was a LUNKER-building stream to catch some trout to eat. I won’t matter what regulations are day on Bear Creek in Sauk County, which drew TU members from numerous throw back anything over 12 inches on streams if there are no trout to chapters in Wisconsin and Illinois. and will keep nine fish, if I can catch catch. them. Nine fish is three meals of We need to recognize that our was reluctant to make a major were seeing the same things. three for my wife and I. For the last state streams will never be like they change in hatchery production with- A 2008 economic study found several years, the only time I see were before European settlement. out more study. Subsequent re- that trout fishing in the Driftless people fishing with live bait and There’s not a lake, river or stream in search proved that wild-strain trout Area was a $1.1-billion dollar indus- keeping fish is on opening day and the state that has not been per- out-survived domestic-stain fish by try and growing. By the time I re- the other anglers are all friends of turbed by agriculture, logging or de- a factor of 6:1 after one year. A tired in 2010, we had reclassified mine on our annual outing. velopment. Our goal should be to statewide wild trout program began more than 395 miles of new trout All of the other times I fish it, protect what we currently have and in 1995 and continues today. water. There were now more than most others anglers I encounter on give our waters the chance to be all By this time most Driftless Area 1,000 miles of classified trout water the stream are using flies and releas- they can be. waters were going through a major just in the four counties of the La ing fish. If more liberal regulations I was witness to an amazing trout change in temperature and species Crosse Area. are the answer to reversing the “se- recovery in my career with DNR. I composition. Streams that less than Do a Google search today for rious decline in trout fishing”, why hope the next generation will not two decades ago were populated by “Driftless Area Trout Fishing,” and am I not seeing an increase in bait see it disappear. many warm-water minnow species you’ll get more than 50,000 results. anglers? were changing to a coldwater spe- That’s not bad for a fishery that Almost all of the streams I used David Vetrano worked as a fisher- cies assemblage. barely existed 30 years ago. to manage now have more liberal ies biologist for the Wisconsin Depart- The shift to colder water also I once estimated how long it regulations than before I retired in ment of Natural Resources for more meant a surge in the aquatic insects. would take an angler to fish all of 2010. Rarely do I see someone car- than 33 years. Almost all of his time Caddisflies, mayflies and scuds be- the classified waters in my four- rying a creel. was spent managing the coldwater came abundant as conditions im- county area (La Crosse, Vernon, Another “quest” by the vocal mi- program in streams of the Driftless proved. Crawford and Monroe) and not fish nority is to open the early season to Area in southwest Wisconsin. While Streams like Bohemian Valley the same water twice. I used creel harvest. While I do not think an ear- there he witnessed the streams change and Timber Coulee went from 100- data that estimated average trip ly harvest season will make a differ- from “put and take” heavily stocked 200 trout per mile in the early length at about 2.5 hours. I also on- ence from a population standpoint, waters to self- sustaining streams with 1980’s to numbers that exceeded ly considered the statewide trout I do think it will affect the size struc- very little stocking. 3,000 trout per mile. While num- opener and the former September ture of many streams. Since his retirement in 2010, Vetra- bers increased, the size structure 30 closure date. I estimated it would In the 1980’s I did a tagging study no has served on several agricultural began to decline in some streams. take an angler 23 years to fish all of on several streams in the Coon boards promoting managed grazing Brown trout grow the largest and the trout streams in my area and Creek system. We tagged every fish systems. He currently lives on a farm fastest when they have large not fish the same water twice. over 10 inches. I wanted to get a bet- where he pastures Jersey steers. His amounts of protein such as min- Currently, we have a trout fish- ter idea of fish movement, growth wife, Linda, is a trained culinary chef, nows or crayfish and in water temps ery that rivals any of the western and angler harvest. On one stream, has a specialty dessert business. that are a little warmer than what and northeastern sections of the Spring Coulee, I had tagged nine Vetrano has a Bachelor of Science brook trout prefer. Lower stretches country in sheer numbers of fish fish over 20 inches. On one weekend degree in fisheries from the University of larger streams and rivers became and easy access. There are more in April when stream conditions of Wisconsin — Stevens Point. (and still are) the areas to catch big trout in area streams now than any were perfect, four of those big fish brown trout. time since European settlement. were caught and killed. While the number of naturally Stocking trout is a thing of the past reproducing streams increased, so for almost all waters in the La did the number of non-local an- Crosse Area, as there is sufficient glers. More and more anglers fished natural reproduction to maintain streams that less than 20 years ago the fishery. had few trout. In 2016 TU updated its earlier As angler numbers increased, so economic study on the Driftless Ar- did the opportunities for entrepre- ea. Trout stream fishing is now a neurs. Sports clubs developed $1.6-billion industry, and there is strong relationships with city folks every reason to think this trend will as TU chapters from urban areas continue. began funding and volunteering for Unfortunately, there are a very habitat restoration projects that small number of vocal anglers who were hours away from their homes. insist that the trout resource in Other people built or renovated southwest Wisconsin is being mis- cabins to rent to anglers. Restau- managed by the DNR. To quote rants saw an increase in out-of-town their leader, “the micro-manage- customers. ment program that began in 1990 Franklin Todd As word got out about the ever- has been an unmitigated disaster.” FEWER ANGLERS KEEPING LARGE TROUT improving trout fishery, National Webster defines “disaster” as “a Over the decades, as wild trout in Driftless Area’s streams replaced stocked TU initiated a large project on the sudden or great misfortune.” How trout, many anglers turned from harvesting large trout to harvesting fewer, Kickapoo watershed. This was only one can describe having more than the second time they funded a 3,000 trout per mile as a “disaster” smaller trout. Home Waters Initiative program. is puzzling. Their goal was to provide funding They would also have you be- for stream surveys, habitat restora- lieve that the complexity of “special Check out our Facebook pages tion and an economic study of the regulations” is driving anglers away ever-improving fishery. from the sport. They are especially We’re getting social. The Council now has an official Through this effort, we were insistent that there is a “war” on an- Wisconsin Trout Unlimited Facebook page at face- able to survey tributaries of the glers who use live bait and keep book.com/WisconsinTU. So go ahead and give us a Kickapoo River that had never trout. “Like!” We’ve also set up a Wisconsin Trout Unlimited been surveyed. We kept finding One of the most important les- more and more trout. sons I learned in more than 33 years State Council “group” on Facebook for people to share My peers in Minnesota and Iowa working for DNR was to stick with upcoming event info and conservation-related news. Page 8 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 Dane County’s big “new” trout stream Thanks to the efforts of many partners, a former “drive-by” river just minutes from the state capitol is being discovered by hikers, paddlers and trout anglers.

By Topf Wells Driftless Area, and is one of the big- gest. It exists on the edge of the Dane County has recently state’s most rapidly growing metro- achieved a rare and maybe unique politan area. feat: discovering, restoring and se- Nevertheless, the river lan- curing public access on a big and guished in obscurity. When the mostly unknown trout stream. The DNR noted it was a cold/cool water stream is the Sugar River as it flows fishery several years ago, that desig- along Highway 69, south of Verona nation received almost no and north of Belleville. The story attention. A few locals fished the goes back about 10 years. river and enjoyed the trophy trout For decades Dane County had they found there. Many years ago, been a wonderful partner with the the county and TU had worked with Southern Wisconsin Chapter of a landowner in the upper part of the Trout Unlimited (SWTU), the Dane river, but that was largely County Conservation League, Bad- forgotten. Most folks, including TU ger Flyfishers and other local con- members, drove by the river with lit- servation organizations in working tle thought of what it might hold or with landowners to protect trout what its future could be. streams. Thankfully, Sara Rigelman and About 10 years ago, the county Laura Hicklin, respectively the To m Pa r k e r combined that effort with a pro- Dane County Stream Easement Co- BEAUTIFUL TROUT RIVER JUST SOUTH OF MADISON gram to purchase permanent ease- ordinator and Director of the Ac- ments permitting public fishing quisition Program, knew better and This photo shows a section of Sugar River on the Neperud property prior to access to and restoration of such seized opportunities as they oc- restoration efforts. It is now the Basco Wildlife Area. streams. The effort succeeded be- curred. yond expectations, The first was the range of trout. Young of the year an oak ridge at the Neperud site. and more than 20 chance to buy 400 acres trout, and trout of all sizes from 6 To provide cooling shade and miles of stream have “Young of the year of land with more than inches to 14 inches call the Sugar richer near-stream habitat, SWTU been restored and trout, and trout of a mile of Sugar River home and all are wild brown is planting native hardwoods and opened to public fish- all sizes from 6 frontage from the trout. DNR records show that the shrubs. The chapter has had and ing. Bruce Company. It is river has not been stocked since the will continue to schedule work days A busy angler inches to 14 now known as the Falk/ mid-1990s. to improve angler accessibility and would take several inches call the Wells Wildlife Area. Like most Driftless Area trout remove yet more invasive veg- seasons to fish all the Sugar home and Then the Neperuds, streams, as good as the Sugar was, it etation. This fall and winter’s effort water on such excel- all are wild brown a conservation-minded has some problems. Past land use includes controlled burns and more lent Dane County family, sold the county had left some areas that were too planting. streams such as Black trout.” a lovely 100-acre farm wide and shallow and some badly Next year the county will under- Earth Creek, Ver- with another mile of eroding stream banks. The result is take a two-year restoration of the mont Creek, Pleasant the river. That is now that the river has some of its great most problematic segment of the Valley Creek, German Valley Creek, the Basco Wildlife Area. A month habitat broken up by segments that river. It is a wide, warm, shallow, Syfestad Creek, Kittleson Creek, ago, the county purchased an ease- needed help. silty stretch of several hundred Gordon Creek, Token Creek, Frye ment for a half mile of stream from Rigelman enabled the county to yards in the Falk/Wells Sugar River Feeder, Deer Creek and the West the Sarbacher family. find partners for some much-need- Wildlife Area. Rigelman’s research Branch of the Sugar River. With these purchases, trout an- ed restorations. Last August saw has confirmed that channelization Some of these are well-known glers took notice and discovered a the completion of a two-year proj- and impoundment of the river blue ribbon streams; many of the treasure. To the surprise of many, ect on about 2/3 of a mile of stream which occurred at least 80 years ago others are vital headwaters of those the river contains great habitat: rif- on the Neperud farm. SWTU do- are the source of the problems. blue ribbon systems. While the fles, meanders, deep holes, gravel nated funds and volunteer labor to county focused on easements, it also and rock stream bottom, shaded help, and rallied our State Council, Variety of river users National TU, the Southeast Wis- bought larger parcels of land on stretches with fish-holding woody Trout anglers are not the only these creeks whenever possible for a debris. consin TU Chapter and many local organizations such as Badger Fly folks happy about the Sugar wider variety of outdoor recreation. With such habitat comes a rich River. Kayakers and paddlers en- diversity of trout food: mayflies, Fishers, Dane County Conservation League, Madison Fishing Expo, the joy the river in ever-increasing Languishing in obscurity caddis, craneflies, crayfish and numbers. They have become the schools of minnows, shiners, and DNR, Madison Orvis, and Sitka Four years ago the county turned Salmon to contribute funds and dominant hatch on the river during chubs. And, oh yes, trout. Besides mid-summer weekends. Many other its attention to the Sugar River, a the occasional big trout one would more volunteers. By the way, never river with some noteworthy fea- pass up a joint work day with the people have found the joy of walk- expect in such water, the biggest ing both parcels. The scenery al- tures. The Sugar is probably the surprises were the number and age Southeast Wisconsin TU crew, es- easternmost trout stream in the pecially if they provide the brats. ways includes the lovely river and The DNR saw the project as an wildlife, including a pair of bald ea- opportunity to use some techniques gles that regularly patrol the river. that have been quite successful on The county has just constructed a central Wisconsin trout streams, in hiking trail on Falk/Wells to encour- particular the latest versions of age this activity. bank covers. With Rigelman’s coor- Rigelman and Hicklin are work- dination, the stream benefitted ing with nearby landowners to im- from an all-star DNR team includ- prove access to and habitat in the ing the operations crews from Wild stream. It’s work that is receiving Rose, Fitchburg and Eagle and fish support from Paoli, a small commu- biologists Shawn Sullivan, Bradd nity of shops, galleries, an artisan Sims, David Rowe, Kurt Welke, brewer, and restaurants right in the Tim Simonson and Dan Oele. middle of the Sugar's fishing The county, DNR and SWTU waters. One of Wisconsin's best new sponsored an event to demonstrate cheesemakers is about to make bank cover construction and their Paoli home. Paoli makes the Sugar applicability to Driftless streams. River one of the nicest streams to County and federal conservation fish when the fish aren’t biting. agencies and local landowners and One might wonder: well, this is contractors were invited. all well and good, but why not keep your mouth shut about all this won- derful fishing and let people discov- Beyond in-stream work er it on their own? Here’s why: The restorations go beyond in- because the Madison metropolitan stream work. In order to have more area is expanding so rapidly, with Jim Beecher stable stream banks and better hab- much of that growth heading to- itat for birds, pollinators and other ward the Sugar River. TOPF WELLS AT HIS NAMESAKE WILDLIFE AREA wildlife, SWTU has been restoring The world famous and ever-ex- Named after Topf Wells and former Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk, the prairies on county properties, and panding Epic company and campus Falk Wells Sugar River Wildlife area features trails, wildlife and trout fishing. the county is taking invasives out of are about eight minutes from Paoli. Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 9

The county also purchased 30 acres Upper Sugar River Watershed As- with half a mile of frontage on the sociation. The association has im- Sugar River next to Epic. A key proved paddler safety and access on spring complex is on that parcel. the river and led the fight against The river needs champions now the New Zealand Mud Snail, re- and even more so in the future. The cently discovered in a tributary. It best champions will be those folks has secured grants to help farmers who love it because they have expe- along the river improve water quali- rienced it. ty. In another first for the river and Dane County, the association just Dane County’s brought the DNR and volunteers conservation program together to re-introduce native mussels. Take that, mud snails! Back to Dane County. Several While Rigelman and Hicklin, Wisconsin counties have wonderful

now the Director of the County’s To m Pa r k e r conservation programs with an em- Land and Water Conservation De- phasis on coldwater resources and partment, are among the key county ALL-STAR DNR CREW WORKS ON SUGAR RIVER probably others elsewhere in the staff to have planned and imple- country do, too. But I doubt that The Sugar River benefitted from an all-star DNR team including the operations mented the county’s preservation of crews from Wild Rose, Fitchburg and Eagle and fish biologists Shawn Sullivan, many do as much as Dane County the Sugar River, the county’s elect- in the face of such rapid, persistent ed leaders, county executives Kath- Bradd Sims, David Rowe, Kurt Welke, Tim Simonson and Dan Oele. growth. That a fairly unknown, ex- leen Falk and now Joe Parisi, and cellent wild trout fishery exis- Stop by the Sugar River the next of the Southern Wisconsin Chapter of the Dane County Board of Supervi- time you’re near. Fish it, walk it, Trout Unlimited and currently serves ted within 25 minutes of a state cap- sors have enthusiastically led and itol is pretty extraordinary. That a paddle it. You’ll have a blast. And on its board. He worked for Dane reliably funded that effort. take an optimistic lesson from the County for 15 years and was one of local government has spent so much County Executive Parisi and time and money to preserve, im- Sugar. When you get home, look the Dane County staff who created Dane County Board Chair Sharon around at some of those rivers and the county trout stream restoration prove, and make it available to the Corrigan have made the Sugar Riv- public before it is degraded is per- creeks that everyone just seems to and easement programs. He has been er a key focal point. Kevin Connors, drive over in route to somewhere one of the most active SWTU volun- haps even more noteworthy. recently retired director of the Obviously and thankfully, the else. You might find a really cool re- teers on the Neperud project. County’s Land and Water Conser- source and some folks who’ll help county has many individuals and or- vation Department, had been a ganizations as partners in this make it better. champion of the Sugar River Water- Topf Wells is a long-time member effort. Special mention is due the shed throughout his tenure. Support Wisconsin TU and get your Wisconsin TU license plate now. Go to www.dot.state.wi.us/ drivers/vehicles/personal/ special/trout.htm AND FOR A LITTLE BIT MORE EACH YEAR, YOU CAN PERSONALIZE YOUR PLATES What exactly is the NLC? SUPPORT WISCONSIN TU WITH A TU LICENSE PLATE By Kim McCarthy, WITU NLC their home areas. Each work group Representative goes about its business in a way that they feel will work best for that par- Ever since I became Wisconsin’s ticular group. CANOE RAFFLE! TU National Leadership Council The second area of responsibility Representative, I have been struck for the NLC involves serving as a li- by how many of our members don’t aison between National TU staff GRAND PRIZE: Beautiful 15’ Cedar Strip Canoe* fully understand what the NLC is. and chapters and councils. Because NLC stands for National Leader- the NLC has a representative from SECOND PRIZE: Hardy Jet 8’4 4wt 4-piece Rod ship Council. The NLC is part of each council, areas of concern can THIRD PRIZE: $200 Gift Certificate to Mel’s Trading Post National TU’s leadership structure be communicated from National and is made up of one representa- TU to state councils or from state Buy Your Tickets Today | 1 for $5.00 OR 5 for $20.00 tive from each state council. Its pri- councils to National TU. mary function is to help establish A good communication example the national organization’s conser- would be the Youth Education Tickets available at Mel’s Trading Post in Rhinelander vation agenda. Work Group helping National staff (Canoe on Display) or by contacting Terry Cummings at Various areas of concern in the spread the word about an effort that (715) 362-2187 or [email protected]. Drawing to be conservation area are looked at by is underway to help fund National’s the NLC, considered for national at- Education Program. The Guada- held on April 28th. tention, and focus areas are chosen lupe River chapter in Texas has You do not have to be present to win the canoe raffle. for attention by the NLC. Some ar- made a pool of money available as eas currently on the NLC’s list of fo- matching funds to help raise money *paddles are not included cus areas are climate change, access, for such efforts as the TU Teen Great Lakes, mining, diversity, Summit summer camp. The Youth Northwoods Trout Unlimited 42nd Conservation Banquet Driftless Area, and youth education. Education Work Group has been in- A complete list can be found on the volved in communicating informa- Quality Inn (668 West Kemp Street, Rhinelander) National TU website at tu.org. tion about that effort to the states. Once a topic has been selected as A second example of communi- April 28, 2018 | 5:00 – 9:00 PM a focal point, the NLC forms a work cation took place in October when group around that topic. Each NLC the Mining Work Group spread in- For tickets or more information contact Terry Cummings (see representative is expected to serve formation about the proposed Bris- on at least two work groups. The tol Bay Mine from Alaska staff to above) prior to April 21st. No tickets purchase at the door. groups discuss how to assist the na- chapters and councils around the Discount hotel rooms available. tional organization in its efforts. country. As an example, I am currently The term of an NLC member is serving as the vice chair of the limited to five years. I have about a Youth Education Work Group and year remaining on my time with the as the chair of the Mining Work NLC. In Wisconsin it has often been Group. The Youth Education Work the case that past State Council Group has been working to place chairs have filled the NLC position. Youth Education Coordinators in That has worked well because past each chapter and council as a way to chairs are very familiar with both get more kids involved in outdoor their state’s and National TU’s or- education activities. ganizations. The Mining Work Group is au- If you have additional questions thoring a handbook to assist chap- about the NLC, contact me at ters and councils who are forced to [email protected]. deal with extraction activities in Page 10 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 Update on TU’s Great Lakes Restoration Program

UPSTREAM ON SPENCER CREEK PRIOR TO RECONNECTION Prior to the replacement of the culvert there was an average silt depth of 13 UPSTREAM ON SPENCER CREEK AFTER RECONNECTION inches with a maximum of 17 inches due to impounding. Increased velocities ment. Opening up the entire Spen- The elevation of the culvert was revealed sand, gravel and cobble after the restoration. cer Creek system to trout lowered below the existing channel migrations and movements would bottom and a two-inch toe wall was Words and photos by Laura heart of Wabeno. This will entail the once again allow the seasonal and placed to prevent scour. MacFarland, TU Great Lakes removal of mill dams, a culvert re- life history movements of trout and Restoration Manager placement and instream habitat im- other species. Amazingly quick results provements. In 2017 the Wild Rivers Chapter In 2017, Trout Unlimited staff I am eternally grateful to the and TU National collaborated to se- Preliminary post-construction and volunteers helped to reconnect Wisconsin Council and chapters for cure a $50,000 Wisconsin DNR Riv- monitoring was conducted in Octo- 42 miles of coldwater habitat within their ongoing support of the pro- er Management grant, which helped ber to document immediate changes the Peshtigo River watershed in gram. Thanks to your generous fi- fund the replacement of a culvert in current velocity, water depth, silt Northern Wisconsin. nancial contributions and letters of located on Spencer Creek in the depth and substrate type following In collaboration with the U.S. support, we have been able to lever- Forest County Town of Blackwell. the project. Forest Service and the Wisconsin age the necessary grants. Thank The project was completed in Sep- Upstream of the culvert, we ob- DNR, 10 inadequate culverts were you! tember 2017 in partnership with the served a dramatic reduction in the replaced with fish-friendly struc- U.S.F.S. and the Town of Blackwell, amount of silt, revealing sand, grav- tures. An additional road crossing with additional funding from the el and cobble; virtually no silt was Project spotlight: observed within the channel. The located on private industrial forest Spencer Creek National Fish and Wildlife Founda- was abandoned. In all, the projects tion. average silt depth was reduced from eliminated 11 aquatic organism pas- Spencer Creek is a very impor- 10 inches to 0.004 inches. The aver- sage barriers and improved instream tant coldwater tributary to the Rat age width and depth of the channel habitat. River. The limited trout population Entire Spencer Creek were both reduced to natural condi- Thanks to a grant from the Na- of the Rat River, a larger tributary system reconnected tions mimicking the upstream and tional Fish and Wildlife Foundation to the Peshtigo River, depends on Removal of this barrier recon- down-stream reference reaches. and ongoing support for the Great cool-cold water tributaries such as nected the entire Spencer Creek Prior to the restoration, the ve- Lakes Restoration Initiative (GL- Spencer Creek. It is likely that Rat coldwater system to trout and other locity of water at the outlet of the RI), we will be continuing our ef- River trout historically used Spencer aquatic organisms, including five culvert served as a barrier to aquatic forts here in northern Wisconsin Creek for spawning, nursery and miles of the mainstem Spencer organisms flowing at a rate of 1.61 through 2019. Our objective for rearing habitat and also as a refuge Creek and an additional 1.56 miles meters/second (5.28 feet/second). 2018 is to reconnect an additional 25 from warm water temperatures that of Swan Creek. Following the replacement, the ve- miles within the Peshtigo system routinely occur in the Rat River. While fish passage was the pri- locity at the outlet of the culvert was through the replacement of five However, in recent decades trout mary objective at this site, we saw a .2 meters/second (.65 feet/second) more culverts. within the Rat River have been un- great improvement in the instream which is more consistent with the In addition to our culvert work, able to access Spencer Creek due to habitat upstream and downstream velocities found upstream and we are very excited to be a part of a culvert that, like a water cannon, of the site. By replacing the under- downstream of the crossing allowing the North Branch Oconto Restora- blasted water at high speeds from sized and perched culvert, we elimi- fish to move through the structure tion Partnership. In 2018, we will be above the water’s surface. nated the former impounding easily. assisting to restore 2.6 miles of wild Tom Moris, a local biologist at condition upstream of the road and Special thanks to Bob Rice and brook trout habitat through the the U.S.F.S. had long recognized restored natural river velocities and the Wild Rivers Chapter for helping this culvert as a priority for replace- flow characteristics. to secure the necessary funds for The replacement was imple- this project and to our partners at mented per the design and specifi- the DNR and U.S.F.S. For more ex- cations developed by TU’s stream amples of our projects, please like restoration specialist. The former and follow “Trout Unlimited – four-foot, round, corrugated metal Great Lakes Restoration” on Face- pipe was replaced with a 31.5-foot book. Here you will find additional aluminum box culvert with a 14-foot photos, project updates and how span and a rise of more than six feet. you can get involved on the ground.

DOWNSTREAM PRIOR TO RECONNECTION Prior to the restoration, the velocity of water at the outlet of the culvert served DOWNSTREAM AFTER RECONNECTION as a barrier to aquatic organisms flowing at a rate of 1.61 meters/second (5.28 The former four-foot, round, corrugated metal pipe was replaced with a 31.5- feet/second). Following the replacement, the velocity at the outlet of the culvert foot aluminum box culvert with a 14-foot span and a rise of more than six feet. was .2 meters/second (.65 feet/second) which is more consistent with the The elevation of the culvert was lowered below the existing channel bottom and velocities found upstream and downstream of the crossing, allowing fish to a two-inch toe wall was placed to prevent scour. move through the structure easily. Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 11 Highlights of the 2017 Wild Trout Symposium Words and photos by Matthew Mitro, brook trout? (I’ll answer that Wisconsin DNR question later in this article.) The Wild Trout Symposium, held I was very excited to recruit Dave every three years in the heart of Vetrano as a plenary speaker. Dave, western wild trout country, is per- in his 33-year career at the DNR, haps the best conference to learn oversaw a remarkable recovery in about what’s new in the science and coldwater stream habitat and trout management of wild trout. About fisheries in the Driftless Area and 150 fisheries scientists, managers, has a great story to tell about it. It conservationists and anglers from was very well received. across the United States, Canada Overgrazing has been detrimen- and Europe gathered in West Yel- tal to many western trout rivers, but lowstone, Montana for four days in when managed properly along Mid- September. This year’s theme was western streams, it has been a highly “Science, Politics and Wild Trout beneficial use of agricultural land Management: Who’s Driving and that has helped improve streams Where Are We Going?” and their trout fisheries. With presentations like Dave’s on our successes in trout conserva- Wisconsin well tion, and Duke’s update on the eco- represented nomic benefits of our improved • Dave Vetrano, retired Wisconsin Driftless Area fisheries, trout enthu- DNR fisheries manager, gave a siasts from other parts of the coun- plenary presentation on “Search- try are starting to pay more WISCONSIN’S DAVE VETRANO DISCUSSED MANAGED GRAZING ing for sustainability: A legacy of attention to the trout fishing oppor- Overgrazing has been detrimental to many western trout rivers, but when land use, managed grazing and tunities we have here in Wisconsin. wild trout in southwestern Wis- managed properly along Midwestern streams, it has been a highly beneficial consin.” Johnson provideds a view use of agricultural land that has helped improve streams and their trout • Duke Welter, TUDARE, pre- from the chapter level fisheries. sented on the economic impact of trout angling in the Driftless Kent Johnson’s presentation on Area. Pine Creek, speaking from the TU ease, parasites and the health of duration was about 20 seconds. • Kent Johnson, Kiap-TU-Wish chapter level, provided a welcome wild trout. Jacob Rash of the North These studies indicate that regula- Chapter of TU, presented an complement to the great work done Carolina Wildlife Resources Com- tions on air exposure time in catch- evaluation of stream restoration at the national level. The Pine mission began the session with an and-release fisheries are not war- benefits using Pine Creek as a Creek restoration was successful in account of three parasites recently ranted. case study. many ways, by reducing erosion po- discovered in North Carolina: gill • Joanna Griffin, Wisconsin DNR tential and decreasing stream tem- lice Salmincola edwardsii infecting Method for eradicating trout coordinator, presented a perature. brook trout and S. californiensis in- non-native trout But there were also unanticipat- fecting rainbow trout, and poster on using new brook trout Perhaps the most innovative and genetics research to improve ed outcomes: no improvement in Myxobolus cerebralis, the causative aquatic insect metrics and an in- agent of whirling disease. potentially groundbreaking re- Wisconsin’s trout stocking pro- search, presented by Patrick Kenne- gram and to protect wild brook crease in brown trout to the detri- I followed with the latest on gill ment of brook trout. These stories lice research from here in Wiscon- dy of Idaho F&G, was on the use of trout populations. YY male brook trout for eradicating • Justin Haglund, Wisconsin DNR about local projects are important sin, which shows concern is warrant- to tell, and I hope we see more pre- ed in heavily-infested populations in non-native brook trout where they fisheries biologist, presented a threaten native cutthroat trout. A poster on age validation of sentations like Kent’s at future in- which young-of-year brook trout be- ternational symposia. come infected. Fortunately, our team led by Dan Schill from Idaho brown trout in Driftless Area F&G developed hatchery-produced streams using otoliths. state-wide surveys show such heavy infestations of young-of-year brook male brook trout that have two Y • I presented on parasites and the Disease, parasites and chromosomes. When released into health of wild trout, addressing trout to be uncommon, but more re- trout search is needed on long-term gill an undesired population and al- the question, should we be con- I presented in a session on dis- lowed to reproduce, over time the cerned about gill lice infecting lice-brook trout dynamics to better understand the genesis and duration sex ratio skews to 100 percent male, of heavy outbreaks. leading to extirpation. The next presentation was by To- The process can be aided by me- by Landeryou, a Ph.D. student at chanical removal of the target spe- Middlesex University in London. cies prior to the release of the YY He is doing research on brown trout males. Mechanical removal sup- genetic variation in the major histo- presses population abundance but compatibility complex, a part of the typically cannot eliminate the popu- immune system that recognizes par- lation. Modeling studies and initial asites infecting the host, and their field trials so far support the use of ability to adapt in response to infec- YY males as a viable approach to tion. eradicating undesirable fish popula- An interesting thing I learned tions. from Toby in a conversation after his talk was the development of a la- Next Symposium in 2020 ser-wielding robot used to kill sea The Wild Trout Symposium will lice on Atlantic salmon being raised reconvene again in September, in aquaculture pens in Scotland. 2020. Visit wildtroutsymposium.com Yes, there are online videos of lasers to read more from the many pre- shooting fish (you must see them!); senters at the 2017 symposium. no, I don’t think they will work in our trout streams! Matthew Mitro is a fisheries re- The final presentations in the search scientist with the Wisconsin fish health session were by Luciano Department of Natural Resources. Chiaramonte of the Idaho Depart- Based in Madison, Matt has been ment of Fish & Game and Curtis working with the DNR on statewide Roth of the University of Idaho on fisheries issues since 2003. Matt’s the effects of air exposure on Yel- work focuses on trout in Wisconsin’s lowstone cutthroat trout. inland streams, including stream hab- There has been concern, origi- itat restoration, trout stocking and nally based on a Canadian study, propagation issues, angling regula- that prolonged air exposure of an- tions, fish ageing, population model- gler-caught trout (say 30 to 60 sec- ing, parasites and environmental onds) may lead to increases in change. Matt previously worked as a mortality or decreases in reproduc- population ecologist with the EPA, as tive success following release. a stock assessment biologist with the DNR’S MATT MITRO DISCUSSED GILL LICE AT SYMPOSIUM The Idaho studies on air expo- Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Although researchers have found some heavily-infested populations in which sure did not find any effects on trout Commission, and did his doctoral survival for trout caught by angling work on rainbow trout in the Henrys young-of-year brook trout become infected, state-wide surveys show such and exposed to air for 0, 30, or 60 Fork, Idaho. Matt graduated from heavy infestations of young-of-year brook trout to be uncommon. More seconds prior to release. And a Montana State University (PhD, MS), research is needed on long-term gill lice-brook trout dynamics to better study of angler behavior in Idaho University of Vermont (MS), and Col- understand the genesis and duration of heavy outbreaks. showed that average air exposure gate University (BA). Page 12 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 TU CARES update

By Tom Lager in the recently acquired section near County Highway Y and further up Trout Unlimited - Central Area in the watershed, extensive fishabili- Restoration Effort for Sustainabili- ty clearing was completed. ty, initiated in 2016, continues to Evaluation of the 2017 field sea- achieve its goals. The inaugural son’s work and collected data led to project on the West Branch of the a series of next steps for the WB- White River (WBWR), to assess WR. WAV data reviewed by Mike and implement improvements to the San Dretto and Nate Ratliff will WBWR representing the possibili- help define the 2018 monitoring ties achievable across the Central program and will potentially include Region streams, had a great 2017 level two monitoring. field season. John Tucker engaged DNR Fish- Through the collaborative efforts eries staff, while Ray White initiat- of the TU CARES Core Team ing next steps to understand the working with multiple TU Chapters, causes of rainbow trout population DNR Habitat Crew, DNR Fisher- decline and plan for corrective mea- ies electro-shocking team, DNR En- sures to assure a self-sustaining fish- To m L a g e r vironmental Analysis personnel and able population. Water Action Volunteers (WAV) The plan for old habitat structure TU CARES EFFORTS ON THE WEST BRANCH OF THE WHITE RIVER the biological and physical features repair is on-going with Shawn Sulli- (Above) Al Johnson, Mike San Dretto, Dennis Drazkowski and John Tucker of the WBWR watershed were doc- van’s DNR Habitat Crew. The umented and assessed. stream crossing assessments com- assessing stream obstruction. Six sampling sites along the 8.7 pleted by Dennis Drazkowski, Al (Below) Nate Ratliff water monitoring on the West Branch of the White River. miles of stream were established for Johnson, John Tucker and I were Six sampling sites were established for monitoring. monitoring and several additional transferred to Bobbi Jo Fisher for sites were investigated due to their prioritization modeling and plan de- unique features, including an un- velopment for removal of obstruc- named tributary, riffle run sections tions to trout migration. and road crossings. WAV monitor- Continuation of the WBWR ing data verified the WBWR’s char- project across the Central Region acter as a high-quality trout stream; requires additional resources and the macroinvertebrate survey sup- involvement of stakeholders, so ported this contention and provided publicity and fundraising efforts are data for development of a hatch underway for 2018. Laura Tucker chart to guide fishing excursions. has been generating ideas for pub- A review of trout surveys re- licity. TU CARES presentations, vealed healthy populations of brook booths and literature are being de- and brown trout; however, the rain- veloped and will be presented at re- bow trout numbers are declining. gional conferences, TU events and No stocking is occurring in this other forums. Al Johnson is com- stream. Investigation of an un- pleting grant writing training and named tributary that contributes will lead our fundraising effort. substantial cold water flow from the TU CARES is reaching out to all northern section of the watershed who have an interest in this under- documented well established popu- taking, and we welcome your in- lations of brook and brown trout. volvement. Several roads cross the tributary; Tom Lager has supported TU for one consists of a perched culvert 29 years in a range of positions; cur- that obstructs up-stream trout mi- rently as State Council Secretary, Vice gration, essentially dissecting the Chair of the TU’s Central Region and trout populations during most Fox Valley TU Board of Directors. stream flow regimes. The TU CARES project arose from A total of nine stream crossings leading a collaborate effort among in the watershed were evaluated for Central Region TU Chapters and potential obstruction. Trout habitat DNR within the region.

improvement work was conducted To m L a g e r Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 13 Fighting ugly with beauty At the Convergence event displays, art, literature, photography, conservation and more.

By Dan Holland So that is how some of the luminaries of writing, “At the Convergence” visual art and environmental science came together When John Meachen and I hatched “At the Con- in Wausau in early October to celebrate the thing They come here vergence,” it was borne out of a shared sense of that unites us all — a love of beauty. outrage about our state’s and nation’s intolerable Admittedly, it got a little scary. We asked our- From as far away environmental policies. selves, “Where do we go from here.” Because of The galvanizing moment occurred when I asked our friendship with celebrated artist Bob White, we As Colorado, John: “And what are we going to do about it?” The asked him what he thought. His reply was, “I’m in.” startled look on John’s face caused me to quickly He paused an instant, then added, “I’ll get Gierach From as near respond with legendary anthropologist Margaret and Dvorak.” Then we were able, again with Catie’s Mead’s immortal words: “Never doubt that a few help, to add eminent environmental scientists Alan As Minnesota; thoughtful, concerned people can change the Haney and Eric Anderson to the distinguished indi- Drawn by a shared world. Indeed, that is the only thing that ever has.” viduals who made the event such a success. Who At that moment we both committed ourselves to do could have foreseen the evolution of a wild idea in- Willingness whatever we could to be a positive force for good in to the celebration that became “At the Conver- a world much in need of good. gence?” To celebrate their art, That led to our approaching Curator of Educa- In the aftermath of the event, sponsored jointly tion Catie Anderson at the award-winning Leigh by Wisconsin Trout Unlimited and the museum, a Affirming a truth: Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. When we discussed host of memorable images remain: Bob White cre- our intent to “fight ugly with beauty,” she startled ating a masterpiece of Alaskan landscape before A love of Beauty us both by saying, “Your idea would fit perfectly the adoring eyes of numerous onlookers, the gallery with Birds in Art, and we are in the planning stages tour of Birds in Art identifying and talking about Unites us all. of that now.” imperiled species of birds around the world…end- John and I stared at each other, before chorus- ing with John Gierach’s capstone comment, “Our By Dan Holland, 2017 ing, “This year?” environmental policy is wrong, it just is.” Catie simply responded, “Yes.”

CONVERGENCE DISCUSSIONS MIX ART AND CONSERVATION MASTERPIECE CREATED BEFORE THEIR EYES...INCLUDING INSTRUCTIONS As the crowd followed them through galleries showcasing the world’s best In a cozy room filled to capacity with adoring onlookers and wanna-be artists, wildlife art, Alan Haney discussed environmental issues related to the various Bob White created a masterpiece of Alaskan landscape before their eyes. And species. John Gierach (left) sprinkled in some of his thoughtful thoughts. he patiently and humorously explained every step, and answered all questions. Fiction: Fishing tales from the desk of Benbow Cheseman

The Thurlow Chronicles::SKEEZIX AND THE CATFISH RIG We have briefly been introduced to the fact on Saturday mornings to Elmer’s Hair Empori- harness with a huge steel hook riding point-up of Thurlow and Maybelle’s little boy, Skeezix, um, reading the outdoor sports magazines on the cat’s back. The hook was near the termi- but to date have not encountered the critter while his dad indulged his second-favorite hob- nal end of some very heavy braided line, which himself nor his nemesis, the family cat, Moloch. by besides fishing: watching haircuts. itself was threaded through the rod guides to When Skeezix was going on three, Maybelle He was usually quiet and as patient as a kid Thurlow’s large bait-casting reel. Fortunately, found a tiny black tomcat kitten on the back his age could be, but on one day, while reading the cat’s struggles had made it impossible for porch. Naturally, she took it in, and, naturally, a “Bass Masters” issue, he became very excit- Skeezix to complete the rig by attaching hook Maybelle decided that kitty would be the per- ed and asked Elmer if he could borrow the to line. While I freed Moloch (who, strangely, fect pet for Skeezix. Finagle’s Corollary to Mur- magazine to take home to read. Elmer agreed, had always seemed to like and trust me), Thur- phy’s Law, also known as The Law of Dynamic and Skeezix actually excused himself from fish- low interrogated Skeezix about whathehellwas- Perversity, ruled otherwise. When introduced ing in order to go home and read! We should goingon. and about to be petted/grabbed [the recollec- have heard the warning bells, but we didn’t: Dy- The trembling waif explained that the maga- tions differ] the kitten hissed and swiped Skeez- namic Perversity again. zine had an article about using live frogs held in ix across the back of his hand with his claws, Instead of taking the boat out, due to a a harness for largemouth bass, and figured that drawing blood and a piercing howl from the storm brewing, Thurlow and I rigged six-weight as they were called “catfish,” the huge shovel- boy. flyrods and fished from shore, starting and fin- heads that lived in the river would consider a Thus was born a deep and abiding relation- ishing about a half-mile south of the docks. 12-pound feline just the thing for dinner. He’d ship firmly rooted in mutual hatred. Maybelle, Coming home past Elmer’s towards my house spent the day rigging a harness from belts he’d unwilling to chuck the kitten out, but also insist- for supper, we met Elmer outside the Empori- bought at Goodwill, and capturing Moloch in ing over Skeezix’ protests that he’d tried to grab um, very agitated. “Thurlow”, he said, “you’d Thurlow’s landing net and hitching him to the the cat by the neck, had her revenge on both better get yourself back down to the dock. harness. by naming the cat after the ancient Canaanite Skeezix came by here about five minutes ago, Hizzoner, the outraged father, did not con- idol known as “devourer of children.” Child sac- and he had that cat of yours in a cage with sider relevant the fact that an 11-year-old kid rifice was part of the Molochian liturgy. Eight leather straps all over him, and a heavy bait- was not likely to be able to lift and cast a 12- years pass, and cat and child each survive the casting rig over his shoulder. I first thought pound cat off the dock and into the water with a other, due, primarily, to each one’s respect for there was a bagpipe band coming down the bait-casting rod. The principle of the thing re- the other’s potential lethality. “Mutually Assured street!” sulted in Skeezix getting his backside walloped. Destruction” kept the peace, until, that is, the We hopped in my car, which was still parked (Political correctness had no place in that event that herein unfolds. in Elmer’s lot, and raced to the dock. Sure household.) Moloch survived, and the armed Skeezix was sometimes invited to fish with enough, there was Skeezix, struggling with a truce resumed. To this day, Skeezix will not eat us, and paid for the privilege by coming with us very angry tomcat that was encased in a leather catfish. Page 14 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 Isolated wetlands What are they and why are they so important...especially to trout streams. Eric Epstein

Kate Redmond MANY ISOLATED WETLANDS IN WISCONSIN’S GLACIAL LANDSCAPE CEDARBURG BOG, ISOLATED WETLANDS This dramatic glacial landscape northeast of Bloomer contains a segment of In Wisconsin, diverse wetland types that can be “isolated” include prairie the Chippewa Moraine that includes many “isolated” wetlands. The glaciers left potholes, ridge and swale wetlands, ephemeral ponds, and more. They make behind depressions and ridges that are now a mosaic of habitats including up 20 percent of the wetlands in Wisconsin, and are some of the most lakes, ponds, and wetlands of many kinds. Many of these wetlands have no important features on our landscape for clean water and flood control. connection to surface water, and therefore are “isolated” wetlands. By Erin O’Brien, into the ground, recharging sonal rain. These wetlands also important natural benefits they Wisconsin Wetlands Association groundwater. They connect with help improve water quality. By provide. downstream communities by con- slowing the flow of water, they al- Small, seemingly isolated wet- What are “isolated” wetlands trolling water quantity and pro- low sediments to settle to the wet- lands are important individually, and why are they important? tecting water quality, and they land floor instead of traveling into and are especially important when connect with other wetlands and our lakes and rivers. they work together as a team. The “Geographically isolated wet- uplands through the movements of Isolated wetlands provide criti- benefits provided by many isolated lands” are wetlands with no direct wildlife (for example, salaman- cal and abundant wildlife habitat. wetlands spread across the land- or permanent surface water con- ders moving from breeding habitat Waterfowl depend on these wet- scape, really add up. When it nection to navigable lakes or riv- to uplands, or birds flying from lands for breeding, amphibians comes to isolated wetlands, the old ers. “Non-federal wetlands” is wetland to wetland). prefer these fishless waters, and adage rings true: the whole is another common label, since the trout rely on them to supply cold greater than the sum of its parts. federal government no longer pro- Why do we protect “isolated” summer stream flow. Next time you see a place on tects these wetlands. Whatever wetlands? Without these small and isolat- the landscape where water collects you call them, these wetlands ed wetlands, fish and wildlife in the springtime, take a closer make up 20 percent, or approxi- Wetlands, even the small and would lose critical habitat. Less look. Not every puddle is a wet- mately one million acres, of Wis- seemingly isolated ones, are some surface runoff, snowmelt and sea- land, but even small, seemingly consin’s remaining wetlands. of the most important features on sonal rainwater would be absorbed isolated wetlands are helping keep Nature creates wetlands to han- our landscape when it comes to and stored. Larger, flashier floods fish and wildlife healthy, ensuring dle water. Sometimes this is in ob- providing flood protection and in our streams and rivers would that the water you drink is clean, vious places like along the banks clean water for communities. cause erosion, promote channel and protecting your community of rivers, where rivers come to- Small and isolated wetlands down-cutting, and increase sedi- from flood impacts. gether or where rivers empty into protect against flooding by absorb- ment deposition. Protecting isolat- larger water bodies. ing and storing snowmelt and sea- ed wetlands maintains the But wetlands also form in more subtle places, like where the land is flat and water runs off the sur- face very slowly, in shallow depres- sions where rain and snowmelt pond or where groundwater bub- bles up from a seep or spring. Often isolated wetlands are small in size or are only wet for short periods of time, usually in Just the spring and summer. Because January 13th 2018 of their small size and short-term $10 nature, these wetlands can be American Family Insurance overlooked on the landscape. FREE for Vets! and Kids 12 In Wisconsin, wetland types 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 & under that can be “isolated” include ephemeral ponds, kettle bogs, rare Join Us For: types of fens, prairie potholes, 'FBUVSFE
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By Erin O’Brien, surface, creating wetlands and ing and help keep sediments and nu- streams, and these wetlands are Wisconsin Wetlands Association forming flow paths and small chan- trients out of our streams. there for a reason. “Isolated” wet- nels. These wetlands deliver a con- The majority of Wisconsin’s mil- lands support the flows, tempera- When a bill dropped this fall tinuous supply of cold, clean water lion acres of “isolated wetlands” are ture, bank stability and water quality proposing to eliminate state protec- to small streams and downstream in the upper portions of our water- of Wisconsin’s coldwater trout tions for “isolated wetlands,” the re- waters. In hot summer months, this sheds at or near the headwaters of streams. action from Wisconsin’s sportsmen helps maintain the base flow and and conservation community was low temperatures needed to sup- fast and stern. port trout and other aquatic life. Why? Because the proposal ren- dered at least one million acres of Ephemeral ponds “slow the flow” wetland habitat vulnerable to devel- Ephemeral ponds develop in de- opment. pressions on the landscape. They As expected, organizations like receive water through overland flow Ducks Unlimited, Wisconsin Water- following spring snow melt and sea- fowl Association and Wisconsin sonal rain events and often dry up Wetlands Association led the by late summer/early fall. Ephemer- charge. These organizations all al ponds tend to be small but re- have wetland-conservation-focused gionally abundant, particularly in missions, and the proposed roll- the upper portions or headwaters of backs would cause great harm to our watersheds. Combined, they the resources they work so hard to capture and store immense quanti- protect and restore. Other organi- ties of water. From there, two things zations followed suit. can happen: To the surprise of some policy Detention & infiltration – Most makers, the Wisconsin Council of ephemeral ponds have permeable Trout Unlimited also issued a soils. The water is stored temporari- strong statement opposing the bill. ly, infiltrates, and slowly migrates “What do isolated wetlands have downslope beneath the surface. to do with trout habitat?” policy This water discharges later in the makers asked. season to other wetlands such as The answer: a lot! springs or seeps or directly to a The term “isolated wetlands” is stream. The ground acts like a re- a misnomer. It was created to de- frigerator, discharging a cold source scribe a subset of wetlands that lack of base flow during the hot summer a direct or permanent surface water months. connection to a navigable lake or Retention & evaporation – In river. But these wetlands are physi- ponds with impervious soils such as cally and hydrologically connected clay, water is permanently retained to other waters, particularly trout until it is lost through evaporation. streams, in two important ways. In both cases, the storage pro- vided slows the flow of runoff that Springs and seeps feed headwater would otherwise rush downstream, streams. harming trout habitat. By reducing 1 MILLION ACRES OF WETLANDS NOW THREATENED Springs and seeps develop where the erosive energy of storms, these “Isolated” wetlands, shown here in green, are found throughout Wisconsin, cold groundwater discharges to the wetlands help prevent bank scour- totaling at least one million acres.

Fox Valley Trout Unlimited th 17 Annual Cabin Fever Day . . . ȴVKLQJexpo Open To Everyone Who Likes To Fish Saturday, January 20, 2018 9 am-4 pm, The Grand Meridian, Appleton $10 at the door, spouses and under 18 free

Events include an Expert Speaker Program %XFNHWUDɞHV VLOHQWDXFWLRQJUHDWTXDOLW\LWHPV$QGPRUH “ Trout Fishing Adventures within a Day’s Drive” 5DɞHWRZLQDKDQGPDGH6FRWW*UDG\FDQHȵ\URG )LVKLQJHTXLSPHQWH[KLELWRUVȵ\W\LQJPDWHULDOV DPȊ0RXVHLQJIRU7URXW8QGHUWKH&RYHURI'DUNQHVVȋ  0LNH.XKU3URMHFW+HDOLQJ:DWHUV )LVKLQJJXLGHV'15ERRWKV $GXOW \RXWKȵ\W\HUV)O\FDVWLQJFOLQLF+8*(XVHGHTXLSPHQWVDOH DPȊ1LSLJRQ5LYHU+RPHRIWKH:RUOG5HFRUG%URRN7URXWȋ Ray Rivard, Red Rock, Ontario SPȊ:LOGHUQHVV7URXW)LVKLQJLQWKH83ȋ  5DQG\%HUQGW83)O\$QJOHU

Lunch will be available Visit foxvalleytu.org for more information Page 16 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 TU Leader Profile: Tom Schnadt Considerate, steady, supportive Latecomer to TU has amazing impact on his chapter and his fellow members. By Maria Manion His definitive step into fly fishing and the new rivers to which it would For a time in Kiap-TU-Wish lead him happened when he took a chapter history, our membership fly-fishing class hosted by Bob seemed awash in Gregs, Bobs and Mitchell’s Fly Shop, a local retailer. Toms. If one was uncertain of a Tom learned how to tie knots and name, trying any of those three gave leaders, where to go, what equip- you a good shot at getting it right. ment he needed and more. He hung But it also caused confusion. Which out at the shop, learning things Greg? Which Bob? Which Tom? gradually. Tom got into fly fishing And if that was the question in re- late, relatively, but it’s been 20 years gard to Tom Schnadt, the answer now. To the chapter’s good fortune, was always “the tall one.” 10 of those have been spent as a Ki- Height is an easy distinguisher ap-TU-Wish volunteer and board for Tom Schnadt, the Kiap-TU-Wish member. chapter president, but it’s certainly In his professional life, Tom not the overriding one. What distin- worked in the building products in- guishes Tom is his thoughtful, ear- dustry—plywood and particle board nest approach to people and his and the like. He had studied forest knack for engaging volunteers. Tom research development at the Uni- recognizes the skills and interests of versity of Minnesota and began chapter members and actively sup- work in that industry after gradua- ports them. The chapter’s increasing tion and a short stint with the WD- involvement in youth education and NR. He spent 33 years in building membership outreach reflect the products before retiring, and as he new and varied activities that have walked away from a role as sales developed under his leadership. manager, he walked into his role as chapter president. Exposed to the outdoors as “Somewhere in my first year as a child president, it dawned on me that what I was doing on the board was Originally from Illinois, Tom’s basically the same thing I did as a path to Kiap-TU-Wish president be- sales manager: setting up meetings, gan a long time ago with family putting people in their best place camping trips and holidays spent and figuring out how to get things with his grandmother, a naturalist in done. Looking back, I probably White Pines Forest State Park. wasn’t ready for retirement, so this The family would load up their was a good opportunity.” Nimrod tent trailer and head toward As Tom’s life in fishing was an the Tetons and Yellowstone. On hol- evolution, so was his involvement in idays they’d visit his grandmother coldwater conservation. He began who lived in the park. “I was pretty volunteering with TU by brushing fortunate as a kid to have a state along streambanks on project work- park to ram around in, particularly days. He enjoyed the work and the on Thanksgiving or Christmas when people and was soon asked to run it was vacant.” for a board position. Since joining He recalled the story of a hairy, the board, he’s acted as chair of the Mike McBain high-water crossing in her Chevrolet conservation banquet committee, Corvair when the park was flooded worked on stream restoration proj- in the spring. On a deep ford, the A MINNESOTA BRULE RIVER TROPHY ects, supported the chapter’s fund- Tom Schnadt began volunteering with TU by brushing along streambanks on car turned and slid through at an an- raising efforts and more. gle. With total control, she delivered He thinks that perhaps his Achil- project workdays. He enjoyed the work and the people and was soon asked to them on the opposite side, noting les heel, when he started as presi- run for a board position. Since joining the board, he’s acted as chair of the that the others would be much easi- dent, was that he didn’t have the conservation banquet committee, worked on stream restoration projects, er. historical knowledge and strong supported the chapter’s fundraising efforts and more. When a bit older, Tom’s outdoor background about coldwater con- jaunts took him to places further servation that others had. But, he from home. He made numerous wil- says that he’s learned a lot and has the past three years Kiap-TU-Wish shows promise of being a future derness trips to places north in On- enjoyed delving into the topic at a has sponsored participants to the leader in TU. I’m kind of excited to tario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, deeper level. Wisconsin TU Youth Fishing Camp. see how that plays out.” adventuresome journeys in the spirit In conjunction with volunteers from Tom is stepping down as Kiap- of that high-water crossing with his Minnesota Women's Fly Fishing, Ki- TU-Wish president this year, but grandmother. On one such expedi- A considerate, steady voice ap-TU-Wish volunteers developed not stepping away from the board or tion in his 40’s, while lining a canoe As Kiap-TU-Wish president, Tom the stream game Run-Riffle-Pool as chapter activities. Kiap-TU-Wish is around rapids on the Asheweig Riv- has been a considerate, steady voice, part of a fly fishing event for Girl grateful for his time and efforts as er in Ontario, he thought maybe this one that has fostered the interests of Scouts. president, and his enthusiastic sup- type of activity was out for him, that other volunteers. For the chapter, For all these successes and more, port of the volunteers who work he had to step back from such taxing the results are new and renewed ap- Tom is quick to credit the board with him. He’s left a lasting impres- physical expeditions. proaches to engaging the member- members and volunteers who spear- sion that shows us what can be ac- Thus began his transition into fly ship, such as Kiap-ON-Tap, a casual headed the efforts. “I look at my complished by pooling together our fishing and the new places closer to chapter meeting held at a local role as trying to help people with collective interests and skills. The home that he would explore. “It was brewery; supplemental chapter whatever they want to accomplish.” Kiap-TU-Wish board and member- ironic, because a lot of those places meetings in Amery for members liv- When asked what has been the ship thank Tom for his dedication to that we had been – the Kazan in ing in that area; and a return of the most satisfying aspect of his tenure, the chapter and look forward to see- Nunavut, the Clearwater in Sas- River Falls Fly Fishing Clinic, a Tom replied that the satisfaction ing him streamside, either brushing katchewan, and others – would have longtime chapter event that intro- comes whenever the chapter has an on a project workday or netting been phenomenal fly fishing, but I duced new people to fishing and event that turns out well and meets brookies on the Trimbelle. was a spincast fisherman at that conservation. expectations – no matter what the point.” Results also include new oppor- activity. Maria Manion is a Kiap-TU-Wish He did, however, recall an “aha” tunities for engaging youth. Kiap’s At the Pheasants Forever Game board member and editor of the chap- moment when fishing for grayling Trout In the Classroom program be- Fair, for example, chapter volun- ter’s newsletter, RipRap. She works for with small Mepps spinners on the gan in 2015 with one classroom in teers were taking the kids fishing for 292 Design Group, an architecture Clearwater. “I had a little fly box North Hudson and has now grown the afternoon. Tom was a bit ner- firm in Minneapolis, where she orga- from L.L.Bean that I had when I to include four classrooms from vous as the chapter had never done nized the first annual Ladies Trout was in middle school. I rigged up the North Hudson to River Falls. Teach- this before, but the volunteers were Outing. Maria is originally from Min- spinning rod with the flies and a ers at other schools interested in great.”The mentors went out and nesota’s Iron Range and while she strike indicator, not a bobber, and starting programs of their own have weren’t anxious about it and made it grew up amongst northern lakes and immediately started to have ten contacted the chapter as well. happen and it was a good event.” forests, she’s come to love the trout- times the success with the flies than For two consecutive years chap- The Wisconsin TU Youth Camp filled rivers of Wisconsin’s Driftless re- the others had with the Mepps. It ter volunteers have provided fly- participation is something Tom is gion. was kind of eye opening. ‘Oh, okay. fishing instruction at the Pheasants particularly interested in. “We’ve This is why people do this.’” Forever Game Fair event, and for had three kids participate and each Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 17 Final 2017 Update: Friends of Wisconsin Trout Unlimited The 2017 fundraising campaign is nearing its your support. It’s amazing to think that roughly end and once again the continued support for 1.5 miles of stream was restored by a single this program is wonderful. Through your gener- chapter. ation donations, we have raised more than I hope you got out this year and enjoyed the $18,000. An enormous amount of in-stream bounty of our healthy, productive trout streams. work will be accomplished because of this. A All across the state, so many of these streams huge thank you goes to the Southeast Wisconsin have directly benefited from the Friends of Wis- Chapter for its generous $5,000 contribution to consin TU program. I hope you all had a won- this fund. derful Christmas and holiday season. I would like to highlight the Harry & Laura Best of luck in the upcoming 2018 fishing sea- Nohr Chapter. This impressive chapter has had son. an annual goal to rehab nearly 8,000 feet a year at a cost of nearly $175,000. The Friends pro- Doug Brown, Chairman gram has been a source of funding for them over Friends of Wisconsin TU Friends grants support DNR LTE crews like this the years, and this is just one chapter in need of one with Doug Weber, Kyle Siebers, DJ Loken.

Providing habitat improvement grants since 1991.

The latest projects are... $2,000 to the Northwoods Chapter for habitat crews in 2015 $2,000 to Wild Rivers for White River in Ashland County in 2015 $2,000 to Marinette and $1,500 to Wolf River for NE $2,000 to Wisconsin River Val- Region work in 2015 ley for Prairie River Project in Lincoln County in 2015

$2,000 to the Kiap-TU-Wish Chapter for the Upper Kinni in 2014 $2,000 to Green Bay Chapter for a habitat crew 2015

$2,000 to Wis. Clearwaters Chapter for Waumandee Creek in 2015

$2,000 to SEWTU for Little $2,000 to Harry & Laura Nohr Willow Creek in Richland Chapter for Pompey Pillar, 2016 County in 2016

Here are our David Menke Bristol WI Ken Voight Sugar Grove IL Friends of Wisconsin TU Cris Meyer Middleton WI Don Wagner GillettWI Steven Miller Sun Prairie WI Denis Wandtke Ogdensburg WI Jason Anderson Mukwonago WI Steve Musser Middleton WI Stephen Wilke MarinetteWI Edwin Barnes MiddletonWI Herb Oechler Wauwatosa WI Paul Williams Madison WI Charles Barnhill MadisonWI Cheryl and Winston Ostrow De PereWI Dan Wisniewski Middleton WI Jim Bayorgeon AppletonWI Donald Persons Janesville WI Nancy and Roland Woodruff OshkoshWI Jolene Berg Chippewa Falls WI Randall Rake Helena MT Norb Wozniak Stevens Point WI John and Susan Bleimehl VeronaWI Ron Rellatz MertonWI Robert Wyman Beaver Dam WI Stephen Born MadisonWI Thomas Rogers Princeton WI Frederic Young RoscoeIL Allon Bostwick Port Washington WI Tom Ryan Whitefish Bay WI Maxwell Burgert Neenah WI Michael San Dretto Neenah WI Rick Christopherson NorwalkWI Lisa and Todd Scheel St. Germain WI TROUT UNLIMITED CHAPTERS Andrew Cook II Sister BayWI Jeff and Mary Schmoeger Cot. GroveWI Kiap-TU-Wish TU Chapter Bruce Davidson WauwatosaWI James Schommer Lodi WI Antigo Chapter Mike Duren Mazomanie WI James School KaukaunaWI SEWTU Chapter Ed Eggers Genoa WI Jim and Marie Seder New Berlin WI Jim Flesch Fox Point, WI Robert Selk Madison WI Jerome Fox Two Rivers WI John Shillinglaw MadisonWI In Memory of Mike Rands. D. James Fruit Jr. Hartland WI George Shinners Antigo WI Donation from Tom and Nan Siebert Scott Geboy Fox Point WI Brent Sittlow HudsonWI Dan Geddes Appleton WI Michael Staggs Poynette WI John Gribb Mount Horeb WI Mike Stary New Richmond WI Special Thanks to Todd Hanson for the Gordon Grieshaber Mineral Point WI Gary Stoychoff Green Bay WI donation from the sale of his books. Dean Hagness MD Custer WI Rick Szymialis Waupaca WI Ashton & Stephen Hawk Madison WI Julie & Todd Templen Dubuque IA William Heart Ashland WI Donald Thompson Cumberland WI Brian Hegge Rhinelander WI Chuck Urban Wauwatosa WI Wally Heil De PereWI Dennis, Becky Vanden Bloomen E.Claire Bob Hellyer Boulder JunctionWI Eric Van Vugt Milwaukee WI Walter Hellyer Egg Harbor WI Greg Vodak Stoughton WI Charles Hodulik Madison WI Jeff Jackson Oconto FallsWI Charles Jorgenson Oconomowoc WI John Kenealy III Waukesha WI Yes, I want to join the “Friends” of Wisconsin TU. Lane Kistler MilwaukeeWI Enclosed is my check, payable to Wisconsin Trout Unlimited. Ralph Klassy Phillips WI MAIL TO: Friends of Wisconsin TU Mark Kraft Madison WI % Doug Brown Barb and Joe Kruse LaCrosse WI R4800 Timber Lane Joseph Kubale Dane WI Ringle, WI 54471 Thomas Lukas Manitowoc WI Thomas and Larissa Lyon Janesville WI Douglas MacFarland DousmanWI Name Brian Madsen Ellsworth WI Anna Magnin MarshfieldWI Address Kevin Mahaney Middleton WI Kim McCarthy Green Bay WI Austin McGuan Green Bay WI City, State Zip Phone # Page 18 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 Chapter News

EAGLE SCOUT LEADS PROJECT ON BEAR CREEK Portage Eagle Scout candidate Carl Wagner recently completed the reconstruction of the Bear Creek information kiosk (left) and construction of a new access stile (above) at a walk-in easement on the Fargen property.

Aldo Leopold Chapter Blackhawk Chapter

Carl Wagner, an Eagle Scout parents about TU and the work the For our September meeting, Da- land them. candidate from Portage, recently chapter has done in the area. Our rin Sakas, who has been successfully In October, we featured Rich Os- completed a project on our Bear numerous workdays at nearby fly fishing Wisconsin tributaries to thoff, well-known guide and fly-fish- Creek improvement project area Manley Creek and the ongoing Lake Michigan for more than 20 ing author of several books, who involving the redesign, reconstruc- work of the Riverland Conservan- years, using both single and double- came down from Mauston to in- tion and relocation of the informa- cy on the same property were high- handled rods, presented an enlight- struct and encourage us about the tion kiosk, which is now located lighted, as well as the WITU Youth ening program covering the use of use of light rods and short casts in adjacent to the new widened shoul- Summer Fishing Camp. spey and switch-rod tactics, in con- the smaller streams of the Driftless der parking area along State High- In November we received a re- junction with contact and indicator Area in southwestern Wisconsin. way 130. quest for financial support for a nymphing. He showed us pictures of Both programs were well re- The scouts also built an access fundraising raffle planned by the enormous lake-run brown trout, and ceived. stile where one of the walk-in ac- Wisconsin Chapter of the Ameri- provided techniques to find and —Dave Hinde cess easements across the Fargen can Fisheries Society at their annu- property abuts the highway, a short al conference being held in distance from the parking area. January. The chapter sent a $50 do- Central Wisconsin Chapter While they were at it, the scouts nation to them in the interest of also trimmed back a willow thicket supporting sound science in fisher- Mike SanDretto, CWTU’s past Our Brookie newsletter has a located adjacent to the creek on the ies management. president, was a hard act to follow. great new look. Jeff Wegand has put upper pasture of the Fargen prop- Plans are being made for the an- The chapter flourished under his a lot of effort into this, and it shows. erty. nual Free Beginner Fly Tying Class, leadership, and Mike has been a Mark Allen has been instrumental With financial support from the which will be held in Baraboo this great mentor to me. He continues to in making the Brookie possible. A chapter, Carl planned, designed year. The class begins on Wednes- be active with membership and be- Thank you to all who’ve provided and carried out this work with the day, January 31 and runs for five hind-the-scene activities. story ideas or have written articles labor being supplied by his scout consecutive Wednesdays. Mike Sta- I am in awe at the dedication and when Jeff asks you. Many thanks al- troop and adult volunteers. Scott pleton can be contacted for details many talents of our members and so to Wayne Parmley for his assis- Allen provided guidance on behalf at [email protected]. volunteers. The following is a review tance with the Brookie. He will be of the chapter and attended the The ALTU quarterly board of the many activities that make our taking on the new role as editor of construction day. meeting will be on Wednesday, Jan- chapter successful. Many thanks to the Brookie, replacing Jeff. Thanks In November Mike Stapleton at- uary 10, 2018 at Suzy’s Steakhouse you all for your contributions. go out to Jeff for his great work. tended an event at the Merrimac in Portage. Wayne Parmley and his wife will A thank you to Bob Haase and Conservation Club to speak to a —Mike Stapleton be managing our Facebook page in Jeff Treu for their work on our web- group of young sportsmen and their the near future. This will be a great site and with news agencies. upgrade, with more content, great Our programs remain popular Antigo Chapter stories and a new look. and well attended. They follow our

Happy New Year to all from An- In the middle of November we tigo TU. The weather in Wisconsin got the brook trout eggs from Silver now looks like winter. Moon hatchery in Elton for our two We recently attended the WITU Trout In the Classroom sites that Northeast Region winter meeting. we started in Antigo high school The area fish mangers and repre- and Wittenberg-Birnamwood high sentatives from the U.S. National school. Mike Werdo at AHS said Forest Service were also in atten- that the eggs in his tank hatched in dance. early December. It was another great meeting After the holidays we will start and a job well done by the chapters putting together our spring fund- in this region, as they continued raising banquet, which will be held support of our coldwater resources. Saturday, March 24, 2018 at North- The Antigo Chapter donated star Banquet Center. We are also $3,000 for fuel for the DNR dredge looking forward to attending the that will be in the Mayking Flowage State Council banquet in February. again this summer. We donated Late this fall our chapter placed $4,000 for a two-man brushing crew $300 worth of brook trout in Rem- in the Antigo area, $500 for beaver ington Lake, here in town, for the control in the Bayfield area and kids to fish for this winter. $500 to the N. Branch Oconto Riv- Our chapter is again planning er Restoration. our annual Kids Fishing Day on Tim G. We have applied for a $2,000 Saturday, June 9, 2018 on the east grant from the Friends of Wiscon- side of the city park. ANTIGO CHAPTER’S ANNUAL KIDS FISHING DAY sin TU program to help complete —Scott Henricks Antigo member Carl helping with casting contest last June. The chapter is funding for the two-man brushing again planning its annual Kids Fishing Day on Saturday, June 9, 2018 on the crew in Antigo. east side of the city park. Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 19 Chapter News

CWTU WORK DAY ON THE PINE RIVER All hands were busy at CWTU’s September work day on the Pine River (right). When the work was done, the waders were cleaned of potential invasives (above). From left is Laura Tucker, Nate Ratliff and Mike San Dretto. Photos by Dennis Drazkowski. business meetings on the second for our projects. We participate with Tuesday of each month. Tried and other Central Region chapters to true themes continue, but new ideas fund DNR LTE employees, which and opportunities are always con- helps get more restoration and sidered. Jeff Treu coordinates great stream brushing done faster. The programs with the help of our mem- EDTU chapter from Chicago has bers. been very helpful. Thank you all. Dennis Drazkowski coordinated Scott Bahn is a master at grant another great year with work on the writing and has obtained many West Branch White River, and mul- grants to help fund our river resto- tiple days on the Pine River. Thanks ration work. These have included to all volunteers who made the work grants from the Trout and Salmon days successful, resulting in the Foundation, TU National’s Em- best-kept secret for successful Cen- brace-a-Stream program and WI- tral Wisconsin trout fishing. Thanks TU’s grant programs. We are also to the Elliott Donnelley Chap- blessed to have his dedication and ter for their continued generous expertise! support and to the Fox Valley Chap- Much gratitude goes to our trea- ter volunteers for their physical sup- surer, Joe Peikert. His guidance and port. dedication keeps us on target. Many Thanks to Dennis Draz- Education is extremely impor- kowski for his leadership and to Na- tant to CWTU as evidenced by our te Ratliff for his photographs numerous successful programs. capturing the work done and the Troutfest is coordinated by Bob great fishing stories at lunch. Smaglick, who has done a wonder- The River Keepers are keeping ful job of organizing this free public tabs on our local streams, surveying event. Jeff Treu is the educational 37 stream/river locations with 25 chairman coordinating the monthly teams made up of 70 volunteers. educational meetings at the Fin and Bob Jozwowski coordinates this Feather, Winneconne. Ray White very important work. Central Wis- presented a great lecture on the consin Trout Unlimited has been ac- health of the Central Wisconsin riv- tively involved in water monitoring ers. Our Casting Clinic was held in since 2004, working in partnership June at Marble Park. KROPP RECEIVES CWTU’S RIVER KEEPER 2018 AWARD with the DNR’s Water Action Vol- The Masters Fly Tying Series Bob Jozwowski presents Eric Kropp the River Keeper 2018 award during its unteers. The program has been in 2018 will be coordinated by Tom 46th Annual Conservation Banquet in October. existence for 10 years with the sup- Meyer. Thanks to Dave Pables for port of the University of Wisconsin his great work with last year’s pro- teers for all their contributions. captured the fun. Shan Moran cre- Extension and the DNR. gram. Beginning Fly Tying classes They make the chapter successful. ated the t-shirts, which were en- CWTU River Keepers are look- will again be offered, thanks to Special thanks to the banquet com- joyed. ing for volunteers who would like to Dave Pables. mittee for putting together this won- CWTU has a lot of fun. Come join their Central Wisconsin River Dan Harmon has continued to derful event. We want to thank join in. We need all types of skill and Keepers group. Volunteers do not orchestrate CWTU’s successful 41st those who have been around for interests to keep things fresh. Com- have to be TU members. River Annual Fly Fishing School. The most or all of the 46 years. Thanks munications, website, social media, Keepers are advocates for area school receives great reviews. All of also to all our sponsors and to Scott the banquet, workdays. If you can streams. They monitor their streams our educational programs are very and Carolyn Grady for their contin- spare a little time, please join us in once a month, and are watchdogs important to the chapter. They are ued support. 114 people attended. any way you can. You will meet for invasive species and environ- commonly a source of new mem- Jerry Strom entertained the attend- great people, have some fun and mental problems. They are orga- bers who become active in chapter ees with great tunes on the baby make a difference. nized into small teams that are activities and work. grand piano provided by Heid Mu- —Laura Tucker responsible for specific streams. A A number of CWTU summer sic of Appleton. Nancy Loehrke was thank-you dinner was well attended gatherings occurred this year, in- the photographer for the event and in November 2017. Attendees re- cluding Fly Casting and Rigging at ceived a River Keepers cap and din- Marble Park and Picnic on the Pine, ner. hosted by Laura & John Tucker and Coulee Region Chapter CWTU funds our projects with the CWTU BBQ Cookout hosted money we raise at the Annual Con- by Ira and Karen Giese and Peter. With the close of the Wisconsin ea anglers chasing muskies on the servation Banquet. Other funding Many thanks to Karen and Ira trout season, there hasn’t been any fly. I still haven’t hooked one, but comes from grants, generous dona- Giese for sharing their home and trout fishing action here on our side am enjoying slinging some big flies tions such as memorial fund dona- their son with CWTU. Peter Giese of the Mississippi River, but thank- tied by David Holmes and Norm tions. CWTU is grateful for the put on a spectacular barbeque of fully there is still plenty of in-season Yackle. memorial donations. The generosity roast chicken, pulled pork and beef water in Iowa and Minnesota. My We have had great attendance at of others allows CWTU to be suc- brisket with all the fixin’s. What fun! son and I had a great day on the our fall chapter meetings and have cessful in our mission of stream res- Our 46th Annual Conservation stream in one of the Minnesota learned a ton from our presenters. toration and education. These funds Banquet was held in October in Os- State Parks after Thanksgiving. We Tom Starmack gave us plenty of in- allow us to obtain matching grants hkosh. Many thanks to our volun- are also seeing a lot of Driftless Ar- sight on using a two-nymph system Page 20 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 Chapter News for fishing Driftless waters. John gether for the 2018 opener. Indoor Frank Hornberg Chapter Noble and Bob Micheel were our camping is available at the club, but presenters when we met in Sparta find all the necessary details in the The Hornberg Chapter had a thusiasm was plentiful as the and they discussed all of the excel- Trapfest discussion thread at work evening in late September. We students dismembered the tree and lent fishing opportunities in Monroe www.driftlesstroutanglers.com. cut trees and cleared the channel of removed the remains from the river. County, especially at Fort McCoy. Jason Freund will be our present- Stedman Creek where it discharges In late October Stu Grimstad led Our November meeting in West er on January 17 at the West View into the Tomorrow River south of a group of local citizens on an after- Salem was a real treat as Dave Ve- Inn in West Salem. His topic is cad- Amherst. When the job was com- noon kayak tour of the Tomorrow trano presented on the history of dis flies and larva, definitely key pleted, Bob and Louise Juracka gra- River upstream from Amherst. The the wild trout stocking program. It is food sources in our waters. ciously invited the crew to their goal was to see how the repair work incredible to think that many of our We have no chapter meeting/pre- house nearby for a hot meal. They on the dam in Amherst in 2016 has area streams had very few trout in sentation in February, as we focus were assisted by Mary Duecker and affected that section of the river. In them just 40 years ago. Thanks to on our banquet on February 23. Donna Mary Literski. Background particular, they were looking to see Dave, other DNR folks, TU chap- Tickets will be for sale soon on our entertainment for the meal was pro- the effect on water temperature and ters, and local rod and gun club Facebook page and website at cou- vided by the delightful sounds of the siltation in the former river channel. groups, we are now truly living the leeregiontu.org. rapids in the adjacent Tomorrow So far both effects appear to be pos- golden age of trout fishing when you Our March 21 meeting will be at River. itive for trout in the millpond. look at water quality and number of the Legion in Viroqua, and we will We wish to thank chapter mem- Our annual holiday dinner was in fish in the streams. hear from local DNR officers and ber Dan Holland for his assistance early December at Shooters Supper There are still plenty of debates prepare for the upcoming Conserva- in bringing John Gierach, Bob Club in Plover. About 25 members, about fish numbers and fish size in tion Congress spring hearings. White and Mike Dvorak together spouses, friends and family enjoyed our waters, but we have water temps The 4th Cozad Driftless 1Fly for their presentation on art and food and pleasant conversation. Our where they need to be in order to contest is March 31, headquartered conservation at the Leigh Yawkey thanks to Gene Schulfer for prepar- keep the stream inhabitants healthy. out of the Viroqua Legion. This Woodson Art Museum in Wausau in ing his trademark holiday buffet. Our December meeting was in event is a fun time, no matter if you October. It was a worthy addition to We are coordinating activities Viroqua and we were fortunate to are a participant, stream judge, vol- the WITU meeting in the museum with the fly fishing club at UW-SP. hear from Geri Meyer of the Drift- unteer, or just want to hang out at on the same day. Our immediate goal is to offer some less Angler fly shop. She’s very the awards ceremony and auction at Our chapter was working on the joint public activities in coming knowledgeable about all things the end of the day. The money that river again on a Thursday evening in months, such as fly-tying workshops. trout fishing and we learned about is raised is used for youth fishing ac- October. Matt Salchert and Wyatt Such connections are vital for the new gear, fishing techniques and all tivities. To find out more informa- Bohm directed a crew of workers future of TU. Chapter member Hei- the work Geri is doing to bring more tion, find the Cozad Driftless 1Fly from the UW-Stevens Point Fly di Oberstadt deserves credit for female anglers to the stream. page on Facebook. Fishing Club. They were successful helping to establish and promote Trapfest is a get-together orga- There is a lot of good stuff going in removing a large willow tree this relationship. nized by our friend and member on with CRTU, so keep your eye on blocking the Tomorrow River at the —John Vollrath Trapper Voldahl, and this event gets our Facebook page and website at former highway 10 wayside on Bu- going on January 6 at the Westby couleeregiontu.org for more infor- chholz Road east of Amherst. En- Rod and Gun Club. It’s a fun and in- mation. formal event to bring anglers to- —Curt Rees Green Bay Chapter Fox Valley Chapter Green Bay Trout Unlimited has to the chapter. Both held officer and been busy in the last quarter of board positions for many years with Our October meeting was an ex- one to see who can tell the biggest/ 2017. Our first fall membership the chapter. cellent presentation by Shawn Sulli- best lie and the other to see who meeting in October featured Heidi Dave Ostanek received the van from the DNR office in Wild could tie the most original fly. Oberstadt, who talked about her “Member of the Year” award. He Rose. Shawn’s presentation dealt Our chapter meetings for the western adventures and “Flyathlon” currently is a member of the board with the habitat work on the streams months of September through De- race in Colorado. of directors, education chair, youth and rivers in the east-central por- cember and the March meeting are In November, Bob Haase joined education coordinator, organizes tions of the state, including Wausha- held at the Capitol Centre on the the chapter for a fly-tying demon- community and kids events with the ra, Waupaca, Portage and Shawano north side of Appleton. Please stration and also talked about his chapter, and serves on the banquet counties. check our website for specific dates new book “Bob’s Fly Tying Tips and committee. The Green Bay Chapter His PowerPoint presentation in- and times of the meetings at foxval- Techniques.” We held our annual is also planning its annual fundrais- cluded many slides highlighting the leytu.org. holiday party and awards dinner in ing banquet on February 15 at Stadi- work during the last several years. We are also preparing for our an- December with 50 members, friends um View in Green Bay. Tickets will TU chapters in these counties have nual Cabin Fever Day fundraiser and family in attendance. Lee Mey- be $35 and all are welcome. contributed significant funding to January 20 at the Grand Meridian ers and Adrian Meseberg received —Stausch Gruszyinski help promote the Limited Term in Appleton, which will have many distinguished service awards for the Employee program that Shawn di- new and interesting presentations time, money and talent given freely rects each summer. and vendors. The bucket raffle and TU chapters have also contribut- silent auction items are some of the ed many hours of volunteer work on best offerings that we have ever as- Harry & Laura Nohr Chapter the streams and rivers in these sembled. This event provides an op- counties. portunity for our chapter to help We got a grant from TU Nation- weekend. The Skills Day is put on by Taylor Ridderbusch was one of fund the DNR LTE crews. Please al’s Embrace-A-Stream (EAS) for the Grant County Sports Alliance, a the presenters at our November check our website at foxvalleytu.org this year’s work on Borah Creek group of representatives from the chapter meeting. Taylor works for for additional information on Cab- near Lancaster and the Blue River various sports groups in the county. National TU dealing with water is- in Fever Day and our other activi- north of Montfort. We then partici- Skills Day is presented for all inter- sues in the Great Lakes region. The ties. pated in the EAS Challenge. We re- ested people with a focus on youth. other presenter that evening was Happy New Year. We’ll see you ceived more than $1,500 in the Almost everything is represented, Bob Hasse from CWTU, who dis- on a trout stream in 2018. challenge and $100 of the challenge from falconry to trapping. We will cussed fly tying. Our December —Rich Erickson funds. Thank you to all those who be doing fly casting and fly tying chapter meeting was our annual Tie donated. with about eight members. It takes and Lie Night. Members and friends Kurt Meyer helped the North place at the technical college in Fen- tied flies and told stories/fibs/lies Crawford School get the Trout In a nimore. about the past fishing season. There Classroom program started. We are also busy developing our were two competitions, including We are also preparing for the chapter’s CAFO policy. Grant County Outdoor Skills Day —Brian Larson and the State Council Banquet in February. These take place the same Kiap-TU-Wish Chapter

The Kiap-TU-Wish Chapter re- Benike announced that Kasey Seib- mains busy this winter. Volunteers ert has been hired to fill Marty En- are training for and working on gel’s fish biologist position. Kasey stream habitat projects, hosting has a degree from Southeast Mis- tours of completed projects, raising souri State University and a gradu- funds at our annual conservation ate degree from Southern Illinois banquet and monitoring the status University-Carbondale. Her work To m L a g e r of the dams on the Kinnickinnic history includes research on large- FOX VALLEY CHAPTER’S CABIN FEVER DAY COMING SOON River. We’re also anxious to work river fish populations in the Missis- Fox Valley Trout Unlimited is preparing for the Cabin Fever Day fundraiser and with our region’s new fisheries biol- sippi and Missouri rivers, as well as is offering more $10,000 in raffle and auction items at the January 20 event. ogist. a stint in fisheries management for DNR Fisheries Supervisor Heath the Idaho Department of Fish and Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 21 Chapter News

Oconto River Chapter

In mid-September our chapter Keshena School was added to the hosted our annual special needs list this year. Dale Halla is coordi- fishing day at Brunner’s Pond in Un- nating the effort. Eggs began to derhill. We treated guests to a picnic hatch in early December and will lunch of burgers and hotdogs. provide a wonderful project for the About 50 people attended, includ- classes involved. Special thanks to ing anglers, caregivers, volunteers Tim Winkle at Silver Moon Springs and chapter members. Great weath- Trout Ranch for supplying the eggs er made for an enjoyable day. The to the classes. fish bit like crazy. Our board met in November and Cane poles were rigged up for will propose a 2018 activity schedule those who didn’t have their own at the upcoming meeting and will equipment. Garden worms, corn prepare a budget accordingly. and secret baits were used to fool Awards will be presented at the Jan- the trout. The fishing went in uary meeting. streaks after a flurry of early activity. We picked our banquet commit- The fish that were caught were tee leaders and set a tentative date cleaned and sent home with the par- of April 26. Our banquet is our larg-

Tom Schnadt Tom ticipants. est fundraising event of the year. There are always some new faces Also, our members attended the PRACTICING AND LEARNING FIRST AID at this event, alongside the veterans. WITU Northeast Regional meeting They support one another and help in Langlade in December. We allo- Joe Knight from the Wisconsin Clearwaters Chapter and Sarah Sanford from each other, even cheering when cated $3,500 to regional projects. the Kiap-TU-Wish Chapter take part in a First Aid Training Course. someone catches a fish. It’s a fun- Our membership meetings are Game. Kasey starts this month. great, as was guest speaker Dean filled and heartwarming event, with held monthly (excluding May & No- The recently completed Trim- Hansen, who talked about insect smiles all around. vember) on the first Wednesday of belle/Holst project has proven to be life in a stream. Dean teaches the The chapter kicked off its Trout each month. Meetings are held at a good site for University of River “Bugs in the Classroom” course, In the Classroom project by deliver- the Lone Oak Gun club just North Falls students to learn about stream which has been a key component of ing eyed eggs to the students at Sur- of Gillett starting at 7 p.m. and habitat restoration. Professor Trout In the Classroom. Dean re- ing, Oconto, Oconto Falls, Lena, —Tom Klatt Kevin Juneau’s Aquatic Restoration ceived the Silver Trout award for his Marion, Gillett, Pulaski, White class toured the site in September efforts and commitment. Lake and Wabeno School Districts. and Eric Sanden’s Foundations of Thanks to the banquet commit- Ecological Restoration class toured tee of Deb Alwin, Mike Alwin, Shaw-Paca Chapter the site on October. Scott Wagner, Allison Jacobs, Greg After Kiap-TU-Wish member Dietl and Bob Diesch for organizing The ShawPaca Chapter will re- door the night of the banquet or by Dan Wilcox wrote an article about this important fundraiser. A big sume its winter meetings in January. emailing the chapter at shawpaca- the tours for the River Falls Jour- thanks to all of the Kiap folks who Check out our Facebook page for an [email protected]. We need dona- nal, the Natural Resources Founda- worked at the banquet, and to our update on meeting times and places. tions and items for the banquet. If tion (NRF) of Wisconsin contacted generous membership for donating We are sponsoring a scholarship you have anything in mind or know Kiap-TU-Wish about hosting a field bucket raffle and silent auction for two UW-SP students who are of someone who could help, please trip. Chapter board member Perry items. going into fisheries management. email us. In the meantime, it’s time Palin worked with the NRF to set In December the Kinni Corri- We have renewed subscriptions to restock the fly boxes, strip and up a Pierce County stream restora- dor Planning Committee began se- for a dozen local schools for clean lines and prepare for the Jan- tion tour this summer. rious deliberations about the status TROUT magazine. uary opener. Happy Holidays to all. The DNR added a new require- of the dams on the Kinnickinnic Our annual banquet is April 5 at We’ll see you on April 5. ment that chainsaw operators on River. Their final recommendation Northwinds Banquet Hall in Mari- —Nate Sipple brushing projects need both a is due January 25. Chapter mem- on. Tickets will be mailed out soon. chainsaw certification and first aid bers Kent Johnson, Dan Wilcox and They will also be available at the certificate. Gary Horvath are preparing a posi- Randy Arnold, the Kiap-TU- tion paper for consideration by the Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter Wish volunteer coordinator, set up Kiap-TU-Wish Board of Directors. a first aid certification class with the This position paper will be present- It has been a busy and productive tember was Dave Barron, who along help of the DNR’s Nate Anderson. ed to the Kinni Corridor Planning In October, 15 Kiap-TU-Wish and Committee before their January 25 fall for the Southeast Wisconsin with his wife, Nancy, are the owners Chapter (SEWTU). Our members of Jacquish Hollow Angler and An- Clearwater members, and one stu- deadline. have been busy planning and partic- gler’s Inn in Richland Center. Jac- dent from UW-River Falls, attend- The River Falls City Council is ed a full-day class in Baldwin. tentatively scheduled to take up the ipating in education and outreach quish Hollow Angler provides guide programs, improving habitat at services for trout angling on the Shannon Griebe was the instructor issue at their regular meeting on workdays and attending chapter spring creeks of southwestern Wis- and covered all aspects of first aid February 13. The dates for public and CPR training. hearings on the dam are not known meetings. consin, as well as Montana. In addi- The largest event, though, was tion, they offer several casting Winter brushing is under way. at this time. The public hearing(s) Both the Kiap-TU-Wish and Clear- are critically important and the our Fall Habitat Fundraiser in Octo- clinics. water chapters started work on Wil- chapter will be working diligently to ber at the New Berlin Hills Golf The topic of Dave’s presentation Club. Stan Strelka and Rosie Ma- was casting. He is a Federation of son Creek. Kiap-TU-Wish is waiting get people turned out for these for final NRCS approval in anticipa- hearings. rotz did an outstanding job organiz- Fly Fishers (FFF) certified casting tion of starting on next year’s Trim- More details will be found in the ing this event. We had a good instructor and teaches classes de- turnout, and everyone enjoyed deli- signed for beginners, masters and belle/Gutting project. January issue of RipRap and online Kiap-TU-Wish held its annual on our website at kiaptuwish.org, or cious hors d'oeuvres, socializing and other FFF certified instructors. conservation banquet in December our Facebook page. Sign up for our being generous with their participa- Dave is an Orvis certified guide and tion in a silent auction and bucket a recipient of the Mel Kreiger at the Lake Elmo Inn Event Center email alerts by contacting Randy and was a sellout, with 120 attend- Arnold at [email protected]. raffles. Award for casting instruction excel- ees. —Tom Schnadt, Gary Horvath, Ma- This event would not have been lence presented by the International successful without generous dona- Federation of Fly Fishers. Dave pro- The food and atmosphere were ria Manion tions from our members, friends vided a well-liked and informative and local organizations. The num- casting demonstration. Northwoods Chapter ber and quality of the items donated Our speaker in October was Rich is always impressive, and we want to Osthoff, a well-known fly tier, guide At our November meeting Bob MacFarland. The canoe was cus- thank everyone who contributed and author. Rich discussed trout Haase from CWTU gave a presen- tom built at the Wooden Canoe items or purchased tickets to attend. fishing on his home waters, the doz- tation on “Is It The Fly or Is It The Heritage Museum in Spooner. This The funds raised from this event ens of excellent spring creeks of Presentation?” cedar strip canoe is based on the will be used to improve coldwater western Wisconsin. Rich has fished We had our annual Christmas Bob’s Special Model of canoe built habitat. Other members who helped the Driftless Area for nearly five de- Dinner at the Blue Heron restau- by the Chestnut Canoe Company of make our Fall Habitat Fundraiser cades and offered many valuable in- rant in Eagle River on December New Brunswick, Canada. It is 15 successful were Jim Wierzba, who sights into fly-fishing the region. 12. feet long and weighs about 45-50 helped organize prizes, Ivan No- Our December meeting will con- Our next Conservation Banquet pounds. Tickets for this great prize havica, who collected funds and dis- tinue with our longtime SEWTU has been scheduled at the Quality are now available. See the ad on tributed tickets, and Rich Vetrano, holiday tradition of collecting Inn in Rhinelander on April 28. We page 9 of this issue of Wisconsin who printed the tickets and mailers. canned goods for the Hunger Task will have a grand prize raffle for a Trout for information on the raffle We’ve had some great speakers Force of Milwaukee, an optional gift beautiful cedar strip canoe donated and banquet. at our chapter meetings this fall. exchange, entertaining screenings of by Laura and David —Terry Cummings Our special guest speaker in Sep- fishing and conservation efforts and Page 22 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 Chapter News John Rennpford John SEWTU WORKS ON BLUFF CREEK AND RECEIVES NEW SIGN The SEWTU Bluff Creek habitat work crew shows off their "esprit de corps" Adopt a State Wildlife Area sign. The sign was presented to them by Luke Roffler, the DNR fisheries biologist for Walworth County. great comeraderie. streambank. These activities will Workdays have also kept us busy. help restore the function and usabil- In September we worked at Bluff ity of the first Bluff Creek habitat Creek, near Whitewater. Luke restoration site, which has a proven Roffler, the DNR Fisheries biolo- history of high brown trout abun- gist for Walworth County, has been dance and excellent size structure. doing a great job identifying habitat Also in October, Ken Rizzo projects and improving streams for helped to coordinate a work day trout. with students and educators on We installed habitat features Rosenow Creek described as a within the re-meander project site “stimulating field experience.” Hats we helped out with last year. This off and a big thank you to all of our work included placement of coarse Habitat Committee members who woody material (tree tops, large helped plan and lead these efforts, braches, etc.), and half logs where and to all of our members who necessary to direct stream energy, showed up to help get the work increase water velocities or provide completed. overhead cover. SEWTU members continue to

Other activities included in- provide educational and outreach Ric Genthe stream weed pulling and cutting and opportunities, and there have been dragging of small brush. This work several events this fall. In October, will help enhance the next two phas- SEWTU members set up at the 9th SWTU’S ICEBREAKER EVENT COMING SOON es of the recently completed re-me- annual Salmon Spectacular at the A scene from last year’s SWTU Icebreaker. With entomology, fly tying, ander project and build on the DNR Root River Steelhead Facility. conservation, keynotes and more, this annual event has something for premier fishing produced by other The facility hosted an open restoration projects upstream and house to showcase the facilities and everyone. See the ad on page 14 for more information on the 2018 Icebreaker. downstream of the project site. promote Lake Michigan fishing op- On this same day we had mem- portunities. The open house includ- Rick Frye did a wonderful job work- SEWTU is a strong supporter of bers helping clean up Pike Creek in ed guided tours, hands-on ing with member John Rennpferd programs that connect veterans with sponsorship with the Kenosha Sport demonstrations of fish spawning, organizing both of these events. fishing and fly-tying opportunities. fishing and Conservation Associa- fish and fishing information sta- The fall season also means that Our chapter is very active in TU vet- tion. The clean-up went very well tions, interactive fishing, rod casting the Oak Creek Fly tying events have eran's programs. Last fall, SEWTU and we received a big thanks from lessons, knot tying, fly tying, and an started. This group, organized by member John Graba and many oth- the Kenosha group for our sponsor- onsite fishing boat used on Lake Greg Schick, meets two times each er members continued to organize ship. Michigan for trout and salmon fish- month at the Oak Creek Communi- fishing trips for veterans and con- The habitat committee planned ing. ty Center to tie flies. The group is ducted weekly fly tying. This is an another successful work day in Oc- SEWTU members provided fly- currently focusing on midge pat- outstanding opportunity SEWTU tober, continuing to improve trout casting lessons and had an informa- terns for winter fishing. This is a members provide the veterans. habitat on Bluff Creek near the tional table explaining what we do. great opportunity to learn some new Visit our website at sewtu.tu.org headwaters of the stream. We signed up several new members. patterns and tying techniques, while and Facebook page to learn more The chainsaws and operators, Also in October, SEWTU had an enjoying a pleasant evening socializ- about SEWTU and our events. loppers, work gloves, waders, steel information table and demonstrat- ing. —Todd Durian rakes, etc. came out in force to re- ed fly tying and casting at the Shore- move in-stream woody debris and wood Fish and Feathers Event at Southern Wisconsin Chapter nuisance plant growth, as well as Hubbard Park in Shorewood. SEW- shrub and tree removal along the TU Education Committee Chair SWTU hopes you will join us for son. (6000 American Parkway, Mad- our annual Icebreaker event on Sat- ison, Wis. 53783) urday, January 13. Be sure to see the ad on page 14 We are excited to welcome Tuck- of this edition of Wisconsin Trout. er and Jacquie Nelson from Nelson The day-long event will also feature Spring Creek Ranch in Livingston, some of the region’s most innova- Montana, as our keynote speakers. tive fly tyers and a legendary array A web search and visit to their Face- of bucket raffle items. book page will quickly show you Kids are welcome, and those un- that we’re in for a real treat. Jacquie der 12 get in free when accompa- and Tucker will give two keynote nied by an adult. We again invite presentations, and will be generally retired and active military personnel available for conversation and com- to our event. They will receive free ment throughout the day! admission with their military ID. Variety is the spice of life … and We’ll see you on Saturday, Janu- fishing! That’s why we asked Tim ary 13 in a friendly, roomy, profes- Landwehr of Tight Lines Fly Shop sional and relaxed atmosphere. Visit to share tips and tricks about the swtu.org for more information. outstanding smallmouth fishing op- A new tradition continues! A portunities available to us. When Women & Fly Fishing Happy Hour the summer gets hot and the trout will again be held the evening be- go down, the smallies heat up! fore the Icebreaker. It will begin at 6 Jim Beecher The Icebreaker is for everyone. p.m. at the Ale Asylum, 2002 Pan- Whether you can cast a fly 40 yards kratz Street, Madison 53704. SWTU CLEARS BRUSH ON MOUNT VERNON CREEK or never picked up a fly rod, this Learn more about us, our events The SWTU Stream Team was busy hacking, stacking and burning brush along event is for you. It will again be held and activities at swtu.org or by find- a terrific stretch of Mount Vernon Creek that looks like it’ll be a great place to at the headquarters of American ing us on Facebook. Family Insurance. It’s right off the —Drew Kasel drift a fly next spring. Interstate on the east side of Madi- Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 23 Chapter News

Wild Rivers Chapter been completed, a few folks from scouts came into a room where art- the DNR did a boom-shocking dem- ist Bob White was demonstrating onstration to show some of the oth- painting. Bob invited a few of the Winter was slow getting here this Several chapter leaders attend- er fish that call the river home, such Brownies to add some brush strokes year, but it has finally settled upon ed the WITU Northeast Region as darters, stone rollers, horned to his painting. Three of them us, and the woodstove is back to be- meeting, where all regional chapters chubs, red-belly dace, white suckers stepped up and each had an oppor- ing my best friend. Fall has been get together to pool resources and and brown and brook trout. This tunity to add their expression to a planning time for Wild Rivers. We commit money for next year’s habi- year we were fortunate to see a painting that Bob had started. are mapping out dates for our 2018 tat projects. beautiful 14-inch male brook trout There were a few audible gasps meeting schedule and habitat sup- Wild Rivers is partnering with decked out in all his color. from the adults, but the young port work for the year. other chapters in the region to fund A big thanks to Dan Holland, painters seemed to be very proud of Our annual expo in Ashland is a dam-removal project in the John Meachen and the Leigh their additions to this masterpiece. Saturday, April 7 at Northland Col- Chequamegon Nicolet National Yawkey Woodson Art Museum for It was very cool. Thank you so much lege. This is a fun event with live Forest, provide support for the sala- all their work putting together the to all of you who came to the event. auction and presentations. Stay ry of TU’s Laura McFarland, con- “Convergence” event. It was a great For news on upcoming events tuned for more details, as this expo tinue habitat efforts in the opportunity to meet and listen to watch the WRVTU.org website and is our major fundraising event for Chequamegon Nicolet National John Gierach, Bob White, Mike Facebook page. We will have an the year, and proceeds enable us to Forest, and partner with other chap- Dvorak, Victoria Houston, Alan event set up for Jan 23 at Sconnies contribute money to the habitat ters to fund beaver abatement and Haney and Eric Anderson. in Wausau. Have a Merry Christmas projects that we support all year. stream restoration in Sawyer Coun- My favorite moment of that & Happy New Year. We extend a warm invitation to ty, supporting DNR fisheries biolo- weekend was when a group of girl —Linda Lehman members from other chapters to gist Max Wolter. drive north for a fun day with Wild In my last chapter report I men- Wolf River Chapter Rivers members at this expo. One tioned having had a couple mem- unique and really impressive thing bers from Arkansas TU come north about this expo is that all our part- for a fishing outing and a presenta- The Wolf River Chapter’s Fly Ty- 55, near White Lake. For more in- ners who help us to protect and re- tion on their efforts to introduce ing Consortium is Saturday, January formation contact Zach Buchanan store coldwater fisheries and their Bonneville Cutthroat into the 27 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring your at [email protected]. watersheds have display tables and White River system. own vise and materials, or come for The date for the Wolf River information booths at the expo. It’s This winter, chapter member Ja- the fish tales and camaraderie. Tie Meet’n’Greet has been set for May impressive to see, in one large son Stewart has been invited to your favorite patterns for the Wolf 19. Look for more information on room, all the work that is being do- speak to the Arkansas chapter on River Chapter or learn to tie Wolf our Facebook page or our website at ne in the seven counties that fit into some of his adventures as a fishing River Chapter members’ favorite wolfrivertu.org. the Wild Rivers Chapter. guide in the Northwoods. We are patterns at The Bear Paw Outdoor —Laurie Zen Netzow We will be hosting the Fly Fish- hoping to put together a crew of a Adventure Resort, N3494 Highway ing Film Tour again. Show dates couple other chapter members to have not been set yet, but if you’d make the trip with him, and do a lit- like to travel north to see the films, tle winter fishing in the White River we will soon have the show dates system. and ticket prices on our Facebook —Bob Rice page and TU.org website. Wisconsin Clear Waters

WCWTU began the new year ing is our ClearWaters Master Tyers with the election of new officers and Night. In April Todd Mau will dis- directors. They are: Dick Duplessie, cuss Trempealeau and Buffalo president; Jim Erickson, vice presi- County stream projects. May is our dent; Greg Lynch, secretary; and chapter Driftless Area camping trip. Dave Zoellick, treasurer. New In February we will review proj- board members are Tom Sather and ect grant requests for projects in the Buchanan Zach Greg Lynch. area. The intent is that the grants be WOLF RIVER TROUT CAN’T RESIST THIS BEAST Jim Erickson has set up great spent on projects in the year of the programs for the coming year. In grant. We supported eight different This wool-head fly is called the Beast of Burgert Lane, and is a triple- October we heard from Tom Sather projects last season. articulated version of Buchanan’s Wolf Hound. Learn about this and other from Reel Recovery. In November We are examining future proj- favorite Wolf River patterns at the Wolf River Chapter’s Fly Tying Consortium Bob Haase discussed fly-tying meth- ects, in conjunction with the DNR. on Saturday, January 27. ods and tips. In December Ira Giese We hope the Sand Creek project discussed trout fishing the White will be completed this year. Addi- River in Arkansas. tionally, many old projects on In January DNR staff will discuss streams such as Elk, McCaan and local streams including stream res- Duncan are in need of brushing. toration, trout surveys and results of The board will decide on the creeks 4,500 the trout transfer. In February we’ll and order brushing days. We hope look at Speed Fly Tying, with three for a good turnout from members guides demonstrating their favorite and nonmembers. That’s how many trout enthusiasts “20 Minute” flies. March 8 is our —Dick Duplessie annual banquet. The March meet- receive a copy of Wisconsin Trout. Wisconsin River Valley Chapter Plus, copies are distributed at various Happy Holidays, fellow TU The kids broke into groups and members. On October 5 John grabbed the tools that they needed TU events, fly shops, sporting goods Meachen, Bob Pils, Al Hauber, Per- for their area of study. Because stores and beyond. ry Nikolai, Megan Radtke and my- there are deeper pools south of the self were out wading in the Plover bridge and riffles north of the River with the Wausau East Biolo- bridge, the students spent about an gy, Chemistry and Physics kids lend- hour in both areas so they could Advertise in Wisconsin ing a hand in the Annual Plover learn the preferred environments of River Stream study. This is always a the aquatic animals they found. Trout: little bitter/sweet for me because it They found huge mottled sculpins usually is the last event of the sea- and a couple young brook lamprey. Four issues a year. son and the beautiful fall leaves They bring their critter samples means that winter is soon to follow. back to the parking area and, after Retired DNR fisheries biologist lunch, the aquatic critters are divid- 1/8-page ad for an entire year, as little as $180. Al Hauber gave the group the histo- ed into groups and put into plastic 1/4-page ad for an entire year, as little as $360 ry of this section of the Plover. bags so they can be passed around There were rock wingdams installed the group for a closer look. As these 1/2-page ad for an entire year, as little as $633.50 in the 50's and the many Christmas are being passed around, biology Full-page ad for an entire year, as little as $1,188 trees that were used in the 80's to teacher Dave Coenen and Al Haub- narrow the stream south of the er talked about the different species bridge. Al used to do fish surveys on and their importance to the ecosys- Contact Todd Franklin at [email protected]. the Plover, and the largest fish they tem. found was a 28-inch brown trout. When the insect discussion has Page 24 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 Wisconsin’s Fly Tyers Russ Bouck: soft hackles and wet flies Wisconsin’s Fly Tyers is a new series that will highlight some of Wisconsin’s great fly tyers. Most people do not realize how many great fly tyers we have in Wis- consin. Some are well known and others are less known, but some of the best ty- ers in the United States. Bob Haase will interview a different tyer for each issue of Wisconsin Trout and they will talk about their favorite flies, how they tie them, and how they fish them. It will provide an opportunity for us to learn about them, along with tying tips and information to make us better tyers and fly fishers. It will be done in a question & answer format, followed by step-by-step instructions on how to tie one of their favorite flies.

By Bob Haase started tying them and have been fishing them ever since. I have been Russ Bouck is one of the best lucky enough to fish from Maine to soft hackle and wet fly tyers in Wis- British Columbia and from Canada consin. He has researched this style down to Arkansas and Tennessee of fly and has a nice library of books and wherever I have gone they hit tracing the history, characteristics soft hackles. The catch is to match and tying methods. Soft hackles and how you fish them to the waters you wets are very effective and yet they are fishing and what the trout are are not tied or fished as often as doing. That is something that a lot they should be. Russ and his wife, of people don’t fully understand. Sue, reside in Amherst, Wisconsin and are very active in Trout Unlim- Can you tell us a little about the HALF A CENTURY OF FLY TYING ited. history of soft hackles and where After 50 years of tying, Russ Bouck still enjoys tying and fishing soft hackles. they originated from? The trick most folks overlook, he says, is to tie them in three different weights: Russ… How did you get started Soft hackles originated in the unweighted soft hackles, regular soft hackles which are tied on heavier hooks in fly tying? British Isles and they call them I have been tying for more than North Country flies there. If you and maybe has a wire ribbed body, and what he calls “industrial strength,” 50 years. My dad was a fly tyer and read the old English books, it is akin which are weighted with wire or beads. tied professionally, supplying flies to sinning to put weight on the flies. for fly shops in Northern Wisconsin The rivers in that part England are stream and letting them drift down, insect and the shuck which is larger and the UP. When he would be ty- not very fast or deep so you really you want a rod that is fairly stiff be- than just the insect ing, I would sit there and watch. don’t need weight on the fly. If you cause when you see that swirl you When he finished, there would be fish the faster and deeper waters want to set the hook. What are some of the changes feathers and tying materials laying here in the United States, you often When you are fishing down and you have seen in fly tying over the around. I would pick up the materi- have to add some weight to the soft across stream you want a softer rod. years? als and tie them onto the hook. hackles to get them down. Wet-fly You will get the same amount of Rotary vises. The variety of bob- fishing predates dry-fly fishing and hits, but the softer rod will give you bins. We never used bobbins when I I know you tie a lot of trout flies. is mentioned in books dating back more hookups because it almost acts first started… we just waxed the What are some of your favorite to 1496. Anyone wanting to know like a shock absorber and doesn’t thread and held in our fingers. Tre- styles or patterns of flies? more about soft hackles and wet pull the fly out of the fish’s mouth. I mendous availability in the sizes and It’s not so much about patterns flies should read David Hughe’s learned that from Davy Wolten, a styles of hooks. as it is style of fly. I like to fish dry book entitled “Wet Flies.” Another guide on the White River in Arkan- There is such good selection now flies to a rising hatch but that does good book to read would be “The sas. Learn how to mend the line and of different kinds of dubbing and the not happen often, so I fish a lot of Soft Hackled Fly” by Sylvester present the flies so that flies act like ability to make dubbing yourself. wet flies, both soft hackles and Nemes. the real insects in the water. You Hackle availability is a big thing. We winged wet flies, and a lot of Wool- should also become familiar with a were limited to Hungarian Par- ey Buggers. As far as specific pat- Soft hackles are very effective. technique called the “Leisenring tridge for soft hackles and now there terns, I go more by color. I like the Why do you think more people Lift”. are genetically bred chicken hackle Grouse & Green, Gold-ribbed don’t fish them? A key to fishing wet flies is to get (hen necks) and other feathers that Hares Ear and the Orange Fish I think part of the reason is that them to the right depth. It also helps also work great for soft hackles. Hawk. The Orange Fish Hawk is an some people do not think it is in to get some movement on the fly Rather than using feathers for old English pattern that I think style. They used to fish wet flies 50 and that is where the soft hackle is at winged wet flies I often use hair such originally came from an Atlantic years ago. People like fishing dry its best. A third thing is having a lit- as badger hair for my winged wet salmon fly. flies, which is the ultimate in fly tle bit of glitter because a lot of flies. We have a better variety and The other thing that makes fish- fishing. But hatches do not happen those insects under water have air availability of materials for tying. ing wet flies so successful is to as often as people think it does. I bubbles attached to them. Caddis The thing people have to realize is match the weight of the fly to the just enjoy fishing them. larvae when they come up to the sur- that there is nothing carved in stone. water you are fishing. Most people face expel air just like a vapor trail. If you get a better idea or see some- don’t do this. I tie three different You tie your own flies and have If you are going to fish the soft thing a little different, give it a try. weights: unweighted soft hackles, been doing this for a long time. hackle against the current it helps if regular soft hackles which are tied What are some of the advantages of you put a dubbed thorax to keep the Do you have any tying tips for on heavier hooks and maybe has a being able to tie your own flies? hackle from going back around the someone just starting out tying soft wire ribbed body, and what I call in- I think in some of these fly shops body of the fly. hackles? dustrial strength and they are all they make the flies that are more Another thing you can do with Take one or two patterns and just weighted with wire or beads. like model insect building than they soft hackles is to use them to fish to tie a lot of them so you can get used Where you fish them will deter- are in to making flies that fish will a hatch. If you can see the fish come to the basics. Master the techniques mine how you weight them and how take. You don’t have to get super up to the surface they are often tak- and don’t worry about the individual you fish them. fancy. You just need to give a few ing something on the surface. If they styles. When wrapping the hackle things like size, movement and swirl below the surface they are tak- don’t strip the fibers off of one side How did you get started tying sheen to it, and then fish them the ing emergers below the surface. You as some people recommend because soft hackles? way the bugs act. can fish the wet fly upstream. If you you are removing half of the shorter A guide from West Yellowstone, You can get the added satisfac- see a swirl just cast above it and let it hackle fibers. Just tie it in by the tip Montana introduced them to me. I tion of catching fish on something come down naturally and when you and take about two wraps. When ty- was about 22 years old and we were you tied yourself and you can also see a swirl you set the hook. ing soft hackles, avoid over-hackling. on the Madison River and this modify the flies to match specific If you tie a soft hackle with a Sparse is best. guide came along and it was his day situations. pheasant tail body and a yellow tho- The following fly pattern is one of off. He was catching quite a few fish rax it looks like a Sulphur coming Russ’s favorite soft hackle patterns so I asked him what he was using. Do you have any tips for fishing out of its nympho shuck. You can ac- called the Grouse & Green. He showed me and explained what soft hackles? tually tie this on a size #14 rather they were and how to fish them. I If you are fishing soft hackles up than a #16 because it represents the Donate to Wisconsin TU via Thrivent Lutheran Financial If you are a TU member and have investments with listed entity within the Thrivent Choice program. Thrivent Lutheran Financial, you may have the ability If you are a Thrivent member and have the ability to make charitable donations to groups of your to make Thrivent Choice donations, we would be choosing through Thrivent Financial’s Thrivent honored if you’d consider including the Wisconsin Choice program. Council of TU within your charitable planning, and The Wisconsin Council of Trout Unlimited is now a making a donation to our cause. Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 25 Russ Bouck’s Grouse & Bob’s Fly Tying Tips & Techniques Book

Green Soft Hackle Over 125 tips and information to help make your fly tying easier The soft hackle pattern change, but the basic principles shown is the Grouse & Green. of a soft hackle are represented and more fun! The color and body materials in this old English pattern can change to match the situa- called the Grouse & Green. $25 plus $5 Shipping & tion. If you want to fish the fly For more information on ty- Handling in slow water, you might want ing soft hackles and wet flies, (Sales Tax Included in the Price) to dub the body. you might want to go online or If it is fished in moderate read the following books: “Wet Please send check in the amount current, you might want to add Flies” by David Hughes, of $30 with your name and a wire rib. If you want to fish “Nymphs for Streams and Still address to: Robert Haase, faster water, consider using a Waters” by David Hughes or W7949 Treptow Ln. wire body as shown, or a bead “The Soft Hackled Fly” by Syl- Eldorado, WI 54932 to help get the fly down to vester Nemes. where the fish are. Materials and colors can Support WITU Youth Camp MATERIALS LIST with book purchase Grouse and Green Soft Hackle Bob Haase is donating $5 from the sale of each of his Hook: Any standard nymph book “Bob’s Fly Tying Tips and Techniques” to Wisconsin hook. Trout Unlimited to be used for youth program such as our Thread: 8/0 or 6/0 dark color Annual Youth Fishing Camp. This offer is available until our Body: Green Ultra Wire, medi- Annual Banquet in February. um to large The cost of the book is $25 plus, $5 to cover the cost of Grouse and Green Soft Hackle Tail: Krystal Flash tax and shipping. Just send a check in the amount of $30 to: Bob Haase, W7949 Treptow Lane, Eldorado, WI 54932. Please include the first name of the person receiving the book and Bob will sign and include a short note to that per- son. This donation is in addition to the $1 that Bob is donat- ing to Wisconsin TU for each book sold. The $1 donation does not have a time limit and will be used for purchasing fly tying materials for our youth fly tying programs. Thank you for your support and the support of TU activities.

Step 1: Start the thread and tie in small piece of Krystal flash at the bend of the hook as shown. Step 4: Prepare a partridge feather or other suitable soft hackle as shown in the picture. Some people prefer to pull the hackle off of one side, but this eliminates half of the shorter hackles that you may need based on the size of the feather and the size of the hook. Pull the soft fuzzy material from the stem and trim the hackle as Step 2: Leave the thread at the bend shown. of the hook and wrap the body with green Ultra Wire in brassie or medium depending on the size of the hook. Using a smooth-jaw pliers, grasp the ends of the wire with the tip of the pliers and rotate the pliers in the direction of the wrap to bring the tips of the cut off wire around the hook shank. Then wrap the thread through (between the wraps) of the Step 5: Tie the feather in by the tip wire. You should than apply a and make one or two wraps as coating of head cement, UV set shown. Using a hackle pliers will polymer or similar coating to help make it easier and give you more secure the wraps of wire. control. The shiny side of the feather shown be toward the eye so the feather is cupped back toward the bend of the hook. Tie the feather off and trim off the stem. Use a half hitch tool or ball point pen to push the hackle back to make room to form a head. This also allows you to space the hackle evenly around the Gear up for your Fly Tying and Step 3: Dub a thorax using a dark- hook shank. Form a head and tie off Winter Destination needs with us. colored dubbing such as black. You with a whip finish or series of half can make a dubbing loop, split the hitches. The soft hackles of the thread, or just dub the thread based feather create movement in the on your personal preference. The water, which helps entice the fish to thorax should be dubbed as shown, take. This is a very effective pattern leaving room to wrap the partridge that works in most trout waters. feather or other soft hackle. Page 26 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018 Workshop highlights watershed assessment By Mike San Dretto Study of wetlands and their contri- sharing information leads to new ized this workshop would also be bution to the river was part of the knowledge and new ideas. Ray re- useful to Trout Unlimited members Watershed assessment was the discussion. Analysis of stream flow ceived the Aldo Starker Leopold interested in trout habitat restora- major focus of this year’s Workshop rates needed for trout and study of Award from the Wild Trout Sympo- tion. Those of us TU members who on Science for Trout Stream Resto- brook trout populations in the Little sium for his work. have attended have learned much, ration. Looking at an entire water- Plover were discussed as well. Because of the time he spent as a found new restoration ideas and shed often leads to the best answers While understanding the science Wisconsin fisheries biologist, Ray think differently about our streams. for trout habitat restoration. The provides valuable information about White understands how hard DNR Think about joining us next year. workshop, now in its fifth year, was the status of a stream, working on a fisheries and stream restoration held in October at UW-Stevens problem as severe as the condition people work, but they don’t always Mike San Dretto is past president Point. A continuing theme of this of the Little Plover River required have access to the latest stream sci- of the Central Wisconsin Chapter conference is using the best and input from many groups. Communi- ence research. Seeing the need for and currently a core team member of most recent scientific research avail- ty members and leaders with repre- DNR personnel to keep up with the TU CARES collaborative restora- able. This leads to looking at the sentatives from agriculture and new developments, Ray and his wife tion effort of the four Central Region whole stream, everything going on industry collaborated. Take-home Almut made an endowment to UW- TU Chapters. He truly enjoys the time in it and the riparian zone which points were to get beyond finger Stevens Point which supports the he gets to spend outdoors on trout supports it. pointing and focus on the problem workshop. As a long-standing mem- streams. What better watershed to use for and solutions. ber of Trout Unlimited, Ray real- the workshop than the Little Plover There is nothing like getting out River? Not only is it near Stevens into the field on a sunny fall day. Point, but it’s also one of the most The afternoon was spent evaluating studied rivers in Wisconsin, since two sites. We spent a portion of the portions of it dried up in 2005. Cir- day on the Little Plover looking at cumstances made it necessary for all locations for natural and cost-effec- local stakeholders to work together tive trout habitat improvement. The and look at all aspects of the prob- group also studied areas of potential lem and potential solutions. wetland restoration with intent to A diverse faculty included fishery increase stream flow. biologists, hydrologists, UWSP fac- The idea for the annual work- ulty and a wetlands specialist. DNR shop came from Ray White, who ac- and community leaders presented a tively participates in the workshop session on team development for and its planning. His knowledge of watershed assessment. Attendees Wisconsin trout habitat goes back to included DNR fisheries and stream his time as a fisheries biologist in the

restoration personnel, along with Wisconsin Conservation Depart- GriffinJoanna TU members and others interested ment (now the DNR). Ray is a be- in stream restoration. liever in lifelong learning. That WORKSHOP ON SCIENCE FOR TROUT STREAM RESTORATION The morning was spent on the interest in learning lead to a career UW-Stevens Point campus. Those of teaching and sharing knowledge Tracy Hames, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Wetlands Association, present learned where to find infor- about trout habitat. As a past associ- explains the Little Plover River Watershed Enhancement Project during the Fifth mation about a watershed, the im- ate professor of fisheries at Michi- Annual Workshop on Science for Trout Stream Restoration. The project is a portance of ground water and gan State and Montana State multi-party collaboration led by the Village of Plover to improve the health of evaluating high-water-use areas. universities, he understands that the Little Plover River Watershed.

Ron & Margery Ginsbach Elmwood WI Gary Preisler West Bend WI Thomas Goodman Miami FL Randall Rake Helena MT Dan Grauer Wausau WI Bob Retko Cedarburg WI John Gribb Mt. Horeb WI Ken Rizzo Oconomowoc WI Jack Halbrehder Sparta WI James Roden Eau Claire WI Stephen Hawk Madison WI Dan Rorabeck Hudson WI Ashton Hawk Madison WI Nancy Rosenbacher Waupaca WI James Hayett Hartland WI Michael San Dretto Neenah WI Jan & Mark Heifner Appleton WI Jeff & Mary Schmoeger Lake Mills WI Walter Hellyer Egg Harber WI George Shinners Antigo WI Nancy and Dan Hill Spencer WI Tim Stark Wind Lake WI Mike Hittle Appleton WI Wayne Stockman Spring Valley WI Ed & Irene Josephs Oconomowoc WI Juergen Stuebs Wautoma WI Patrick Kirsop Stoughton WI Ronald Suslick Peshtigo WI Lane Kistler Milwaukee WI Charles Urban Wauwatosa WI Winter 2018 update Robert Kleba Crivitz WI Karen & Martin Voss Eau Claire WI Barb & Joe Kruse LaCrosse WI Dick Wachoski Eau Claire WI Peter Kurtz O.D. Menominee WI Don Wagner Gillett WI The 2017 Watershed Access Fund campaign has come to an end Rodd Wangen Oregon and we had another excellent year of financial support. Through David Lange LaCrosse WI Randy Lueth Marshfield WI Donald Wellhouse Kaukana WI your generous contributions we raised more than $6,000. Thank you Brian Madsen Ellsworth WI Jared Wunderlich DePere WI so much. Matenaer Corp. West Bend WI This past year, this fund was able to secure an important link on Kim McCarthy Green Bay WI Kiap-TU-Wish Chapter of TU the “Horse-shoe” section of the North Fork of the Bad Axe. With- Fred Mikolajewski West Allis WI Marinette County Chapter of TU Robert Moser Milwaukee WI out your continued support, this wouldn't have been a reality. Herb Oechler Wauwatosa WI Chapters can request up to $7,500, and two chapters may each re- Edward Parsons Platteville WI quest for a single acquisition. Each chapter would have to match 50 Ray Piehl Wautoma WI percent of the grant. This could provide as much as $15,000 for a sin- gle purchase or easement. The matching 50 percent from chapters can be in the form of volunteer hours. Here is my contribution of $100 or more to The 2018 fundraising campaign is under way, and you should have received the campaign letter. Please consider supporting this the Wisconsin TU Watershed Access Fund important program so valuable trout streams across this state can be Make your check payable to protected for permanent access and enjoyment. Wisconsin Trout Unlimited I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and holiday season. I wish you the best in the 2018 fishing season. MAIL TO: TU Watershed Access Fund Attn: Doug Brown Doug Brown, Wisconsin TU Watershed Access Fund Chair R4800 Timber Ln. Ringle, WI 54471

2017 Contributors Name Ed Barnes Middleton WI David Dybdahl Middleton WI James Baxter Whitefish Bay WI Chuck Egle Amherst Junction WI Address Jolene Berg Chippewa Falls WI Beatrice,William Evans NewRichmond Robert Burke Markesan WI John Ewen Neenah WI Dennis Buzzar DeForest WI Erik Forsgren Fremont WI City, State, Zip Tom Crabb Monona WI Richard Galling Hartland WI Terry Cummings Rhinelander WI Robert Galvin Crivitz WI Phone David Darling River Falls WI Daniel Geddes Appleton WI Richard Duplessie Eau Claire WI Giorgio Gimelli Madison WI Winter 2018 Wisconsin Trout Page 27 Driftless Rambler With Duke Welter TUDARE Outreach Coordinator

With a gray December sky drop- Driftless projects this season. I’m ping quiet “slowflakes” on us this repeatedly amazed by the success morning, it’s been a nice time to sit Jeff Hastings and DARE have had back and reflect on the season just in securing large regional Farm Bill past, with a few thoughts about grants, which are then put into indi- what’s ahead. Over the weekend we vidual projects in counties across attended one of our favorite holiday the region. Add to that the funding happenings, a bluegrass (and more) from TU chapters, U.S. Fish & concert at a country crossroads Wildlife Service, Wisconsin Trout dance hall between Middle Ridge Stamp and other sources, and the and St. Josephs Ridge, always a support for this work has been out- heart-filling time with good friends standing. and fine music. For 2018, dozens of projects Once the leaves drop here, a have applied for more of that NRCS coating of new snow on the ridges funding across Wisconsin. If ap- and hillsides accentuates the rock proved, it will cover about 70 per- the criticism that they aren’t strong the door with this hog butchering faces and limestone spires one usu- cent of the project costs, and will enough, or aren’t being enforced. operation,” Wagner said, “But even ally can’t see for the foliage. Driving support both DNR crews and pri- Even with some oversight by the bigger, they will want to get these around, I am probably a safety haz- vate contractors. We’ll find out soon DNR or the Wisconsin Department 50,000-pig farms started all over the ard to other motorists, because I whether funding has been ap- of Agriculture, Trade and Consum- area. Why can’t people think of how tend to stop to take a picture of an- proved for many of those projects, er Protection (DATCP), we have this will affect the way people live other rock face or column I’ve never and then will have a busy time find- many situations where resources around here? The butchering oper- seen before. The Three Chimneys ing the remaining share from other are being damaged. Kewaunee ation will be just upwind of the outside Viroqua, Monument Rock sources. County, with five times as many Westby to Viroqua bike trail. How near Liberty Pole or the Elephant Landowners provide a public cows as people, faces disastrous many people will want to ride Rock near Lloyd may be better fishing easement, and we find the well-water contamination because there? What’s the traffic going to be known, but it seems almost every full project cost wherever we can. If all that manure is going in shallow like, as they haul all those pigs valley in the region has its own land- your chapter is sitting on a cache of soils and fractured limestone bed- through Westby and Viroqua? mark stone structure. cash, or if you personally are look- rock and poisoning the groundwa- “This fragile geology around A busy personal schedule has ing for a charitable tax deduction ter. here can’t handle the manure from kept me mostly away from bird that does demonstrable good, con- Vernon County, and the whole all those pigs, and those operations hunting this fall, but now in Decem- sider supporting a project with one Driftless Area, also has shallow will most likely hurt our groundwa- ber my springer Josie and I have fi- of our TUDARE partners. bedrock beneath shallow soils. It ter,” Wagner said. “It's super short- nally had a few outings chasing should be tremendously wary of the sighted to consider allowing this net pheasant on public lands along Butchering operation in threat posed by 200,000 hogs in negative for the area, instead of en- some of our streams. It’s been just a Vernon County? confinement. couraging them to look elsewhere. I joy to follow my merry bird dog and But Vernon County isn’t zoned, can’t believe it. This will be harmful appreciate viewing a recent stream Out here in Vernon County, we and the township where Driftless to the environment, air quality and project just waiting to be fished. We are facing a serious threat to our Meats isn’t, either. That takes away our streams, all for a handful of re- poke out along those grassy mean- water resources and it’s got a lot of the single most useful tool munici- ally crappy jobs.” ders and work the buffered stream people concerned. A large pork palities can use to prevent resource Well, what’s an angler to do? edges, and we’ve had success de- producer, Lynch Provisions, has damage. If local residents don’t “Call the policy makers. The mayor spite my middling bought Driftless Meats, a butcher- take action, they could get one nox- of Viroqua, the county board chair, shooting. ing operation be- ious industrial operation, which will the tourism committee chair, the We can see the tween Viroqua and open the way for more. Right now, Viroqua Main Street Chamber,” many redds in those “Let them know Westby just off the the only tool they have is public Wagner said. “Let them know you projects, scoured out you won’t come four-lane Highway 14 opinion. won’t come here to fish if they’re of silt and populated (known around here An initial question was where going to make Vernon County a by trout of a size I al- here to fish if as the “Uff-da Bahn”). will the waste water from the plant center for the big pig industry.” most never encoun- they’re going to The facility is located be taken for processing? Concerned During the past decade or so, ter when I’m fishing in the uppermost citizens pressured nearby cities with the Driftless Angler has become a for them. Those make Vernon drainage area of the wastewater treatment facilities, respected fixture around here, both trout scoot off when County a center North Fork of the Bad such as Sparta, Viroqua and Rich- for locals and for visitors. As the ar- Josie snuffles along for the big pig Axe River. Lynch pro- land Center, not to accept waste ea’s fishing attractions have in- the water’s edge, but poses to butcher and water from a new hog operation. creased, they’ve been here with I know they’ll be industry.” process as many as But apparently the company has guides and advice and gear. And back soon. It’s grati- 400,000 hogs a year. struck an agreement with Sparta. they’ve been unafraid to speak out fying to know sup- Driftless Meats for- Many around here pride them- against threats to area waters. But port from our TU merly handled locally selves on Vernon County’s high- this development bodes poorly. “If comrades helped create the condi- grown pork, lamb, beef and deer quality trout streams, and the multi- this operation comes in and hurts tions for those active spawners, re- harvested around here. The new billion-dollar benefit to the Drift- our business,” Wagner say, “we’ll building the habitat they need. company has told local farmers they less economy from anglers. Mat just have to figure out what to do.” won’t process local meat, just hogs Wagner and his wife, Geri Meyer, Underneath that cloak of new from large hog operations. While who operate Driftless Angler Fly snow, rather than an entirely placid Restoration progress other areas, notably Iowa, are dot- The year past saw significant Shop in Viroqua, feel the threat land, some troubling currents are to ted with these facilities, they aren’t personally: be found. progress made on various aspects of a feature of the countryside in Ver- “They’re trying to get a foot in restoration across the region. Iowa’s non or Crawford counties right now. Coldwater Conservancy is incorpo- The company doesn’t like to haul rated, organized and working to ob- pigs more than 50 miles, which tain stream access easements, with leaves people wondering how many an eye to developing good projects big hog barns they will build close MIKE’S on those sites. by. That’s a lot of pig manure, which In Minnesota, five miles of new would have to be land spread, in ad- stream access easements were just dition to the cow manure already SERVICE closed by their DNR, with more being spread from the many dairy AT LANGLADE likely to follow by year’s end. Our farms around here. JUNCTION OF HWY. 55 AND 64 fall bus tour of projects there high- It’s doubly ironic that this area is lighted some of the innovative work home to Organic Valley, the na- FLY SHOP AUTO REPAIR being funded by the Lessard-Sams tion’s largest organic dairy co-op, as sales tax dollars in that state. Min- well as hundreds of small Amish nesota TU chapters have been lead- farmers, many of whom are organic Fly Shop & Sporting Goods ing the way in Driftless stream and sustainably certified. restoration using those funds. Ah, if Often DNR proclaims that large Need a special pattern? Ask Mike! our other Driftless states could just confined animal feeding operations • Custom Tied Flies • have that dollar resource available, (CAFOs) are subject to a higher what we all could do! level of regulatory oversight than In Wisconsin, more than $1.2 other agricultural operations. That MICHAEL & (715) 882-8901 million in funding from the USDA’s may be true, to some extent. But Natural Resources Conservation ALICE KLIMOSKI 4505 STATE ROAD 55 even the rules regulating CAFOs Owners WHITE LAKE, WISCONSIN 54491 Service went into more than 30 and other ag operations are open to Page 28 Wisconsin Trout Winter 2018