JUNE 1982 Keystone state's •j. Official ( fisme BOATING Section 404 in Jeopardy?
lhe Federal Water Pollution Control Act amendments of 1972, further amended in 1977 by the Clean Water Act, were enacted to restore and maintain the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the nation's wa ters. Keeping the Commonwealth's water clean and restoring those that are not fishable, bootable, and even drinkable, is territory the Pennsylvania Fish Commission has staked out, although other agencies have the lead role by statute. Thus, we are delighted to have federal government involved. Most of us are familiar with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, which enables the Corps of Engineers to issue permits for the discharge of dredged or fill material into the waters of the Commonwealth and Section 301 prohibits any per son from discharging pollutants into waters without a permit. Section 404 has been one of the great tools that we have been able to use in our efforts to maintain our waters the best that we can get. As part of the study of burdensome regulations, the Reagan Administration has designated a committee, chaired by Vice President Bush, titled "The Presidential Task Force on Regulatory Relief". We are sorry to tell you that Assistant Secretary of the Army, William Gianelli, and personnel from David Stockman's Office of Management and Budget suggest eliminating the 404 permitting business on everything but navigable waters. This, to a great extent, would leave un protected by the federal Act, the tributaries and adjacent wetlands. Wetlands are a most important resource and certainly we want to see universal application of dredge and fill disposal regulations, as well as pollution discharge regulations. The effect of maintaining Sections 404 and 301 protection is in the best interests of all of the people. Surely we don't have to explain to our readers the values of wetlands or water pollution control, flood damage reduction, erosion and sediment control, groundwater recharge or the benefits realized by fish and wildlife. Fourteen nationally recognized groups reacted to the proposed Army/OMB proposals, includ ing the National Wildlife Federation, the Natural Resources Defense Council, the Sierra Club, the Environmental Defense Fund, the Environmental Policy Center, the International Associa tion of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, and of course the Pennsylvania Fish Commission. We have all said that the present permit application process is highly efficient, in spite of what Assistant Secretary Gianelli has alleged. Our first report was that Vice President Bush has reserved his opinion, but has indicated some agreement with the position taken by so many environmental or ganizations. We hope that Section 404 will remain as the Congress originally intended it. In the meantime, however, just in case the whole thing falls apart, we are working together with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources, the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and staff from both the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and Senate in an effort to have adequately protective legislation, either underway or in place if and when the federal government should let us down.
Ralph W. Abele, Executive Director Pennsylvania Angler Pennsylvania's Official Fishing & Boating Magazine Published Monthly by the PENNSYLVANIA FISH COMMISSION, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA Richard L. Thornburgh, Governor
PENNSYLVANIA FISH Volume51 — No. 6 June 1982 COMMISSION MEMBERS Contents Walter F. Gibbs, President Reno
Leaky Boots page 2 Calvin J. Kern, Vice President. Whitehall The Best Time For Bluegills by Bill Ignizio page 4 Mrs. Marilyn Black Meadville Waterside Wanderings by Linda Steiner page 7 Leonard A. Green Carlisle Trout Like "Strawberries" (and streamers too) by Jim Bashline page 11 John A. Hugya Johnstown Goldenrods and Walleyes by Gerry Kingdom page 14 Ross J. Huhn Saltsburg Wild Trout Management (Part III) by Delano Graff page 17 Robert L. Martin Bellefonte Boating page 23 Jerome E. Southerton Honesdale Black Bass by Fred Guardineer page 23 J. Wayne Yorks Benton The Other Side Of The Tournament Trail by Wes Bower page 24
MEMBERS Scraper Speeds Scaling by Don Shiner page 27 BOATING ADVISORY BOARD Hard Way Striper by Jay Zack page 30
Clayton Buchanan, Chairman. Pittsburgh Notes From The Streams page 31
Nicholas Apfl Fairless Hills Currents page 32
Charles Chattaway Monongahela
Sherwood Krum Hawley
Leon Lyon Bellefonte
Dave Wolf, Editor Covers — In an effort to gather information on wild trout populations, Fish Commission biologists electro-shock the Letort. Photo by Dave Wolf (see story on page 17).
TP JMASTER: A" 3579 forms lo be rePor
June—1982 • 1 Take A Day Off. . . Boneless Shad A few of us in northwestern Penn For several years I've been hooked sylvania are in the process of produc on shad fishing. The fighting nature ing a pilot for a series of television of these fish, and the feeling that each programs, to act as a tour guide to time a shad is on the fish has a good sports fishing in the Erie County chance of winning the battle, has area. There is a sincere interest on the made me a shad fanatic. part of a growing number of local A common problem fishermen sportsmen to promote the area, and have with shad is how to get rid of the at the same time enhance the image of bones when preparing the fish for the today's fishermen. table. I tried de-boning shad for sev However, my letter is not mainly eral years, and after approximately 50 about our project, but it is to ac minutes per fish most bones were re A Poem knowledge the Pennsylvania Fish moved and the fish was ready for the Commission's fine commitment to grill. This tedious work took some of The following poem was submitted to provide a superb atmosphere in which the pleasure out of each shad venture. us by Margaret Humes Collins. Mar excellent fishing is at hand nearly The 1981 season produced enough garet is 87 years of age. I thought you everywhere in the vicinity. shad so I could experiment in cooking might enjoy it. Ed We too easily forget, or take for the fish so that all the bones would be All fishermen, they say granted, the excellent job your office dissolved. The fish would remain Are proved to dance and shout, does. Never before have I paid wit moist, and the flavor would be re When casting flies into a stream ness to such department-wide team tained. After numerous efforts, I They land a rainbow trout! work. achieved these goals. Directions are: Now I have watched such men, It has been my pleasure, in these Using a clean, scaled shad with Their patience so bewilders me, past few weeks, to become ac head, tail and all fins removed, They stand waist deep in water high quainted with Bill Willis, foreman at place a piece of heavy duty alumi As moveless as a tree. the Corry Fish Hatchery. I could not num foil in a large roasting pan. The foil should be 18 inches in So proud of hobo clothes they are, have asked for cooperation and cour tesy like that which was extended to width and 30 inches long. Cut the So quietly they wait, us. thin belly meat and bones from the Just casting flies and wondering if This project would probably not fish. Slit the back along the dorsal The fish will take the bait. have developed beyond the "idea" 1 inch deep, place two strips of No end to hours, nor to days, stage without Gary Moore, an Erie bacon lengthwise on the foil, place They go and go again waterways patrolman. I really want the fish belly down on the foil posi Before the dawn, they're up and you to know of this gentleman's gen tioned so it remains upright, place gone, uine concern and commitment to the four-half strips of bacon crosswise These funny, grown-up men. goals of the Commission. on the back of the fish, fold the foil But little boys by the creekside, From my firsthand experience in around the fish making a loose en A-whistling as they go dealing with these two fellows, I feel I velope folded to form a seal front Don't count their trout by singles, have gained invaluable insight to the and back and on top, and keeping But by the string, you know. challenge your office is facing. the foil from the sides and top of Can it be that our dear menfolk, Sometimes we all feel that regula the fish as much as possible. Place Casting, casting, to and fro tions are directed at a particular in pre-heated oven at 350 degrees. Are just thinking of their boyhood group or interest. I have found Allow to cook 5'/2 hours. Turn In the days of long ago? through working with men like these, oven off and remove fish from the Do they see again the brooklets that more often than not we suffer oven. Using a soft touch, open the Tumbling, twisting, winding on, from "tunnel vision," in that we fish from top to bottom so that the On and on, now and forever don't have to maintain the broad skin sides lay flat on the foil. Until time and place are gone? scope of the entire picture as the Spread the meat sides lightly with Commission does. butter and place under the broiler MARGARET HUMES COLLINS Once again, a big thank you to for five minutes to brown and crisp your department and especially these the flesh. Serve with bacon strips two fine examples of concerned offic and lemon quarters. There are no ers. bones to spoil the eating pleasure. Lost Equipment Good Luck. Last year while fishing Spruce Best regards, Creek, Paul Balough of Ebensburg HAROLD RILEY and his son found fly fishing equip Take a day off . . Souderton, PA. ment. The equipment, which consists and go fishing!!! P.S. The PENNSYLVANIA AN mostly of hand-tied flies, can be GLER has been a constant pleasure claimed by calling Mr. Balough at Ric FULLER for many years. Keep up the good 814-472-8226. Erie, PA work.
2 • Pennsylvania Angler Pastor Dan How often have you heard some one say — "There's no fish in this Pennsylvania stream" or "That hole's been fished out." Maybe there are fish there, but for one reason or another the fisher man can't persuade the monster to take the bait. Angler I feel there are more fish in Penn sylvania's public streams than many Pennsylvania's Official Fishing & Boating Magazine of us would like to admit. I choose to believe this argument because of one man. His name is Dan Penry. Pastor Twelve issues a year, jam packed with the latest in Dan moved to Pennsylvania from the fishing and boating information, fishing tactics, state of Indiana to take over the pas torate of the Huntsdale Church of the management and where to go. Brethren. If Dan has one favorite pastime, it's fishing. Since moving into our community in April '81, he has caught approximately 80 trout. (Hardly enough for a price of a fish ing license, right?) His largest has been a 21'/2-inch rainbow, and more than likely his favorite was a 17/8-inch brook trout, for which he received the Pennsylvania Angler Citation. More than once Pastor Dan has called me out and asked, "Do you want to see the one I just caught?" So the next time someone says, "There's no fish to be caught" — tell them to go fish ing!!! There's lots of fish out there. Just ask Pastor Dan!
LOWELL HASSINGER Carlisle, PA
IS Years I have been subscribing to your magazine for about 15 years, and feel it is by far the best bargain in angling literature on today's market. I per Subscribe today and sign up a friend! sonally do not feel that any of the general fishing periodicals come close to the fly tying presented by Chauncy Lively. Keep up the good work. Name (please print)
HARRY W. MURRAY Edinburg, VA Street or RD#— Include Box Number
City State Zipcode
0 New Use Check or Money Order for Remittance • $5.00 — 1 year G Renewal (DO NOT SEND CASH') • $12.00 — 3 years
MAIL TO Pennsylvania Fish Commission Angler Circulation PO Box 1673 Harnsburg. Pa 1 7120
June—1982 • 3 The Best J^'M Time For Bluegills
Bluegills are now deeply involved in their spawning activities, and heavy stringers are common. by Bill Ignizio that some folks would rather not spawning area located under low If you think of flowers when the discuss. You see, even in the best of hanging limbs near shore. An angler month of May is mentioned and times for catching bluegills, there approached the spot I was fishing brides when someone speaks of are a number of anglers who do not and courteously allowed plenty of June, you are definitely not a fare well. I know this is true because room as he motored his boat around dedicated bluegill angler. As any I've met a good many of these mine and continued to plug the ardent panfisherman can quickly hapless fishermen over the years and shoreline for bass. "You're never verify, these two months are key listened to their tales of woe. I have gonna find any bluegills there," he times of the year for Pennsylvania commiserated with these luckless chuckled. "/ caught 'em all weeks anglers. This, after all, is when the anglers certainly, but pity doesn't ago." I thanked him for the advice, scrappy, scrumptious bluegills are take the place of fish. and proceeded to take a dozen nice deeply involved in spawning Some anglers think the bluegill 'gills from the "fishedout" bedding activities, and heavy stringers are spawning season is extremely short, area. common. lasting as little as a week or two. No, I hadn't used a magic rod to To a devoted bluegill aficionado, This supposition has always puzzled catch these panfish; however, I did it would be a crime to overlook me, since I have found bluegills something that many anglers do not. fishing for the spunky bluegill when spawning from late May through Instead of fishing obvious bedding they are available in such quantity. July in some impoundments. The sites and then calling it quits when These serious panfishermen are well fact is, not all bluegills choose the these easily accessible fish were rewarded for their efforts, and show same time to engage in nesting gone, I continued to fish spots that the fruits of their labor in the form activities. This means spawning were difficult to reach with spinning of platters full of golden fillets on season lasts a good while longer gear. I used a fly rod to roll cast my the supper table. Yet, there is than some fishermen suspect. offerings to nesting bluegills located another side to this happy tale, one Early last July I fished a under low hanging limbs. You'd be
4 • Pennsylvania Angler surprised how many 'gills you can test line. Personally, I prefer lines The fly rod is the best weapon with take from a supposedly empty without any sort of coloring added. which to deliver these baits. After bedding area. Clear line of the smallest possible allowing the lure a several second Bluegills often choose nesting sites diameter will catch more fish; it's rest, impart a little action and allow that make it tough for an angler to that simple. it to sit undisturbed for several more reach. Even fly rods cannot easily Although small worms will take seconds. Finally, twitch the bait two intrude into some of these spots. By bedding bluegills, 1 prefer larval or three times and allow it to stand using a telescoping rod or a long enticers for this task.. Such baits as motionless once more. Some anglers cane pole, however, the pan- wax worms, mousies and maggots are too fidgety when fishing these fisherman can still manage to take will prove quite attractive to nesting top water tempters and work them these "shy" fish off the beds. The fish. Maggots, especially, are good too actively. In many cases, the bait is merely lowered through small for use with the fly rod. While other bluegills will hit such lures when openings in the heavy cover. With offerings may rip off the hook when they are motionless. Patience is the this method, you may find it cast with the long rod, the durable key to fishing poppers and spiders beneficial to fish heavier line than maggot stays attached. topside. you might normally use for If taking 'gills with artificials is to The best top water bluegill bluegills. Six or even eight pound your liking, you may wish to fish attractors are generally quite small. line will allow you to quickly, and rubber bodied spiders or poppers. rather unceremoniously, extract your prize from dense cover. With both cane poles and fly rods, the bluegill angler is able to present his lure or bait quietly. This can be very important. Those anglers who insist on bombing a large bobber into nesting sites, often find their stringers disappointingly skimpy by the day's end. This is because the fish are in relatively shallow water, and the intruding bobber blasts its way into bedding grounds like a kamikaze pilot on his final mission. This is not to say spinning gear is ineffective for taking bedding bluegills; however, it is best fished in deeper situations. Another helpful trick is to use a modified flip cast to insure an almost splashless bobber entry. Even if a few fish are spooked, they will generally return after a short time if the angler waits awhile. When order is restored, the bait may be bounced, pulled, or dragged through the beds in order to elicit a strike. If the fish seem disinterested in your bait, you should consider changing to a lighter line. Those anglers who have good luck with eight or nine pound line on some days, often find many other times when they fare poorly. In some eases, the blame is put squarely on the offending party, the fish. Instead of berating the bluegills for not cooperating, these dejected pan- fishermen would be wise to switch Despite beliefs to the contrary bluegills have been found to over to four (or even two) pound spawn throughout the summer months.
June—1982 • 5 This can make it very difficult to fishing. Generally, the boat is away their lack of angling success concentrate on such tiny baits for positioned well away from the nests by saying the spawning cycle had long. For this reason, some anglers and the outer beds are worked first. ended. In many cases, spawning was prefer using brightly colored lures Thin diameter line (two or four still in progress! Remember, not all for this brand of bed fishing. While pound test) is employed, and hooks fish will spawn at the same precise it's true such colors as yellow, are kept small (in the size #10 or #12 time on a given lake. Even in July, chartreuse and white are easier for range). you can enjoy some fine fishing by the angler to see, these shades are Up to now, we've centered scouring bedding sites. When the not always favored by the fish. primarily on catching bedding 'gills. spawning period has truly ended, Under these circumstances, you may Of course, there will be plenty of there is good reason to continue want to apply a dab of yellow or other occasions when you will be on fishing the bedding areas. These white paint to the top of the popper the water either before, or after spots may (and often do) hold non- or spider. The fish will see the spawning has occurred. Some spawning fish, especially in the early darker hue it seems to desire, and anglers mistakenly feel such times morning and late afternoon hours. you'll be able to maintain eye will not be productive. This simply Pennsylvania waters are loaded contact with the lure. isn't true. In fact, I've enjoyed some with bluegills, and many of them go Last spring, a friend and 1 fished fine days on the water fishing for begging for want-of-action each small poppers over bluegill beds pre-spawn bluegills. Before year. You'll find the fiesty panfish bunched tightly on the western side spawning takes place, the fish will in practically all warm water lakes of a small island. The fish were in begin methodically moving into and ponds throughout the state. Not shallow water and could easily be areas near bedding sites. In some only are bluegills tasty, they'll often seen guarding their nests. Their size cases, they will actually move into surprise you with the fight they put was good and there were plenty of future bedding areas weeks before up when hooked. Although the flat- fish. The only problem we had was they spawn. When this happens, you bodied bluegill do not jump, they getting them to hit. Larval enticers can enjoy some excellent fishing. pull for all they're worth. And as and rubber spiders, as well as The post-spawn period can be a far as any devoted panfisherman is poppers, were bumped about by the troublesome one for anglers. I've concerned, the bluegill is worth 'gills, but not seriously considered heard quite a few fishermen explain plenty. for consumption by the selective fish. "I can't understand it," my partner finally muttered. "We've tried just about everything." He was right, of course, and I could only express similar thoughts. "Wait a minute!" he smiled, and I could see he had thought of something. I hoped whatever it was would work. After a short time, he dug out three dry flies and held them in his palm for me to inspect. They were small, the largest pattern tied on a size #12 hook. There was nothing fancy about the frauds but here at least was something different. The diminutive dry flies were well received by the bluegills, and in less than a half-hour we each had taken all the fish we needed. In this particular case, smaller proved better. Theories regarding bed fishing vary from angler to angler; however, most good fishermen agree on a few basic principles. These successful panfishermen approach bedding areas quietly so as not to spook the fish. They do not plow into nesting spots, and then begin
6 • Pennsylvania Angler 7Vdkn4icU70«Hd&Utt$4>
by Linda L. Steiner A s day slipped quietly into night, -*1 the last of the evening fishermen left the big river. We bided our time, my fishing buddy Big trout would be cruising the riffles and shal and I, waiting on the lower end of the long, flat hole, idly casting our lows, sloshing at times with their backs out of the light-colored flies on the slick water water, brazenly hunting the surface when they that broke into the riffle, more to would otherwise be wary. keep busy than anything else. Above us two anglers made their final casts and their reels clicked in the line, the anglers called to each other. "Nothing much moving tonight." "No, but there ought to be a good hatch in the morning. I'll meet you here."
June—1982 • 7 The burnished gold of the rag-tag brought the damp spring night cast and eased toward the middle of end of sunset paled and the sky was smells of water and earth, river mud the river. This is one of the few tinged a cool blue as the departing and wildflowers. Now nearing the times 1 really needed a wading staff. anglers sloshed onto the bank and top of the hole, where 1 wanted to As the cold water crushed against disappeared through the tall grass try for big trout, I could still see the my legs, 1 leaned heavily on it, under the willows. The river seemed flecks of white foam from the heavy feeling for a foothold or drop-off to sigh and settle down again, and water in the rapids above, before where 1 could see nothing. we were alone with it, waiting for the night swallowed even that up 1 cast by intuition, only able to night. and just the roaring sound see a few feet of the white fly line, You never really know a river remained. trying to time and feel it straighten until you've fished it in the inky 1 tied an outsized bushy fly on on the backcast and then driving blackness of night. In the dark and cut back my leader, working forward. But the fish can see all hours you see another side of the with silhouettes against the graying they need, the bulky dark shape of river's complicated personality, not sky. A pair of ducks whistled the fly against the lighter sky, bright and flag-waving brazen under overhead, just black shapes though, looking down into the the noon sun, but delicate, disappearing into the dark mountain water, to me the night was opaque. whispering in shimmering moonlight, opposite, and I followed the sound Big trout would be cruising the or a hulking dark presence rushing of their wings downriver. riffles and shallows, sloshing at by in blackness. No matter how Working out the line in the times with their backs out of water, many times you've been there, current, 1 watched my companion brazenly hunting the surface when daylight and dark, it's always a little out of the corner of my eye, casting they would otherwise be wary. Crayfish, minnows, chubs and It's always a little strange and unknown when crawling nymphs were also on the prowl with the relative impunity night closes in. darkness gave them. From the strange and unknown when night far downstream. 1 stared hard at his shoreline behind me came splashing. closes in. You never realize how small shape in the gathering dark as A trout had probably run some much you are a creature of your he disappeared. To see him 1 had to minnows against the bank, and 1 eyes until they're of little use look slightly away, like watching a turned to flip the fly where he might without sun or moon. The distant star, because that's the way find it. symphony of the night river comes our eyes are built. They're also Below me I could hear the only to your ears, and the riddle of made to pick out forms and motion familiar "swish" of my friend's fly the waterside must be read in scents, fast when there's so little light that rod, though he was lost to the night. touches and feelings. color fades away. Suddenly, here There was another sound as well, There was an evening pause, a came the bats, black and ragged- the "whish" of line streaming off a hush, as light trickled away, and I winged, swooping low on the water reel, the "plunk" of a plug, and waded quietly upstream toward the to take the high-riding mayflies or "click" of the closing bail. A spin top of the hole, casting slow and turning aerial arabesques overhead. fisherman had joined us. That far rhythmically, as if to let the night There were probably many insects down the hole he was probably after settle undisturbed. It wasn't just the in the night sky. We made the walleyes, which like the brown trout mood 1 was trying not to disrupt, mistake, when we were new at night were also tigers of the night. Down but the fish, which needed a chance fishing, of leaving a lantern burning their way I heard the rolling slap of to forget the intrusion of the day on a shoreline rock. Besides not a hefty trout on the surface. fishermen and begin to feed. But I catching any fish, we learned that's "Did you hear him?" 1 called to was startled by a rustling in the only a good idea if you want to my buddy. My voice seemed to willow thicket in back of me and study bug life. The rock became a startle the night. "Yeah, he's right involuntarily stepped quickly out carpet of mayflies, all facing the in front of me. 1 think 1 can reach into the river. A blue heron lantern, while big dobsonflies, him." Then more splashing and a squawked and rose up from behind kamikaze flying hellgrammites, reel ticking as line was ripped out. the green curtain, and getting his whammed the metal lid and flew at "Hold onto him," 1 yelled, and long legs, neck and wings in order, my lens-bedecked face. Small laughed. "Can you get him in?" flew gracefully across the stream to flashlights are used sparingly now "Boy, he's a nice one," came back find another tree for the night and a lost fly is replaced by holding the shaking response. Then the high before the last light was gone. the small shapes of the hook eye sharp snap of the leader breaking. On the water, pale mayflies and tippet against the night sky. It's No need to ask what happened. The floated by in the dwindling light, a real trick midstream in a cold, fast river lapsed quiet again. wings held erect like small sailboats current. Casting with new interest, 1 on a dark sea. Cool evening air My own fly line made a smiled to myself — this could be a drifted downriver to me and comforting "swish, swish" as 1 false good night. It would be moonless
8 • Pennsylvania Angler until almost midnight, and no fog in sight. On another night, a pale, ghostly fog had drifted downstream, enveloping me as I stood somewhere mid-river, beautiful, but looking like the beginning of a late night monster movie. I was glad to leave when the fish stopped hitting. On the June night, the approaching moon lit up the sky, swallowing stars and illuminating the thin streamers of high clouds. As the full moon, shy one small bite, edged over the tops of the hills, things that were lost were seen again, the row of tall willows across the wide river, the white wolf tree on the other shore with which 1 line up the best fishing spot. A rippling pathway of light on water lay between the moon and me, broken mid-stream by the dark form of my fishing companion. Once again 1 could make out the red of my shirt, the green of my waders and the rocks on the river bottom. Something crossed unseen above me, in great splashing bounds; a deer most likely, and I realized how deceptive the brightness was. I was rn^m afraid our sport was over, but there had been other nights when the fish contradicted the rule that the dark of the moon is best. Now I could watch my backcast and flipped the big fly out and upstream. As it rounded the turn at the end of the drift, I heard the splash before I felt the fish. He ran hard upriver, then stopped to beat solidly against the line, but I could feel him weakening. When I brought him in, I saw he was a good brown, Suddenly, here came the bats, black and ragged- with red rimmed spots and chunky winged, swooping low on the water to take the yellow sides. The hook had sunk into the outer edge of his lip and high riding mayflies or turning aerial arabesques could easily be slipped free. But for overhead. all the moonlight, I still had to feel, rather than see, how to do that. I thought about the fishermen who'd promised to return here at daybreak and wondered what sort of action they would have. With the sounds of all the rolling, feeding fish and the ones we were catching or missing at night, it's no wonder that sometimes daylight fishing is slow. There's just so much that happens after dark.
June—1982 • 9 » T^SP' ... < *2£4kKr"
70 • Pennsylvania Angler Trout Like Strawberries (and streamers too)
Larger than average trout are often looking for something different, and there are times when the "long fly " outfishes everything else.
By Jim Bashline have been fascinated by streamer flies ever since 1 1 tossed the fly as best I could with my tubular steel, / got my first fly tying vise in 1940. 1 was nine years Winchester rod, (gee, I wish I still had it) and watched old and thought I was a big deal as an angler. I had as it sank to the bottom of what we used to call the taken quite a few native brookies by that time, most of Horseshoe Pool. 1 gave it a couple of tentative wiggles them on worms and grasshoppers, but the highlight of and then began to lift it up to cast again. As the fly my fishing career had been the actual catching of a 14- neared the surface, the rod bowed abruptly and I was inch brown trout on a Grey Ghost streamer. That fast to a fish. I saw it flash in the depths and nearly particular fly had been given to me by a neighbor who fainted! It was the largest trout I had ever hooked. With had made a trip to Maine several years earlier. He had great skill (?), I started reefing and reeling while walking picked up a few of the "long" flies in that state, and away from the bank. Miraculously, the assortment of brought some home for a trial on Pennsylvania browns. half hitches and square knots held, and the trout was One yellow, bright morning in early May my sister's skidded quickly onto the gravel bank. I pounced with boyfriend, Jack Frederick, took this pesky kid to the the fury of a hungry raccoon and bopped it soundly on South Woods Fork for some early worm dunking. We the head with a convenient stick. There was no thought caught a few little brookies, but before we hung it up I given to releasing fish in those days; especially if one wanted to give that beautiful fly a baptismal cast. happens to be 9 years old, and the fish was the first he At that time, near the head of the stream, there were had ever taken on a streamer fly! some fairly substantial pools scattered across a 40 acre 1 crowed and showed that trout to all of my pals and pasture. There was little brush or tree cover in this their parents, and noticed more than mild disbelief on stretch of water, but the pools dipped beneath the soft their faces when 1 announced 1 had taken it on a turf of the pasture and it was rumored that there were streamer fly. 1 showed them the fly, but this didn't cut some sizable brownies lurking in them. I didn't know the any ice. They assumed 1 caught it on a worm. But 1 first thing about fishing streamers at that time, but I had knew better! read or heard somewhere that big brown trout would hit 1 had the "secret" for big trout now. It was the long them. 1 cut the number eight bait hook from my 4 foot fly from Maine, and I would tie others like it and would leader and tied the beautiful fly on with a series of proceed to catch every brown trout in northcentral strange knots. Knot tying was not one of my strong suits Pennsylvania. For the next four days I didn't leave the at that time. vise except for meals. I was too busy trying to tie Grey
June—1982 • // Ghosts as described in the Herter Fly Tying Manual. I It's the same with trout and a number of other game didn't have the right materials, but I substituted freely fish. They see something out of the ordinary and they and did come up with an assortment of streamers; just can't resist experimenting. Since fish don't have any enough, I thought, to last me all summer. Weil, they hands or fingers, they've got to take that "something" weren't actually Grey Ghosts, in fact they weren't into their mouths to examine it. Pop, they're hooked! streamers. They could more accurately be called "long Now I know that's a simplistic explanation, because flies." They were not even tied on long shank streamer we all know that streamers are supposed to suggest a hooks, but on an assortment of six-for-a-penny bait darting minnow, and trout certainly know what minnows hooks direct from Ridlon's Hardware Store. are. Fair enough when tying and casting flies that To avoid further self embarrassment, I will not relate resemble minnows such as the Muddlers, Sculpins, Troth any more fishing episodes which took place that Bullhead, and several other somber patterns. But what year ... or even the next. My total score with streamers fish ever saw a minnow that looked like a Mickey Finn, amounted to zero for the next two seasons. I continued (yellow, red and silver) or an Edson Tiger, or a Pink to catch my trout on worms and grasshoppers, and every Marabou? I think Wulff is right. They're going for so often on a dry fly (when all planets were in the strawberries! proper position). But the streamers . . . .? I reasoned We've all read, a time or two at least, that the classic that, that first brownie had been a suicide prone fish, time to tie on a streamer is in the spring, when the water and that Pennsylvania trout had no idea of what Maine is a bit discolored. The idea is to present the trout with a streamers looked like .... nor did they care. reasonable minnow look-alike, and jerk it through the Another May morning about five years after that, I water in an attempt to suggest an escaping bait fish. And watched Earl Brown working the riffles in Mill Creek you know what? This works, and works well at times. with a bright Mickey Finn streamer. He was catching But big fish will hit a streamer during low, clear water and releasing one pink-striped rainbow after another, too, and at all times in between. We simply have to take and my interest in streamers was suddenly rekindled. the time to tie one on to prove it. "Brownie" gave me one of those long shanked number I once spotted a good brownie fanning near the tail eights and offered a quick lesson in how to retrieve them end of a long pool on the Loyalsock. It wasn't taking a by stripping line quickly through the crook of the index thing from the surface, although there was a fine hatch finger on the rod hand. Bang! I caught one too. Three of light cahills drifting by. Every other fish in that river more came after that and I was back in business as a was after the floating flies and I was having a dandy streamer fly tyer. time catching 10 and 12-inch trout. I came to a sudden My childhood experience with streamers is not, I've halt when I saw this fish. A nice setup! There he was in found, unique among anglers of all ages. The long, full view so I tossed the size 14 dry to a spot about 6 willowy flies are admired by many and are even tied on feet upstream from his position. Nothing doing. He from time to time, but they aren't stuck with long didn't even look at it. Nor did he look at the next 10 enough to fully appreciate their value. casts. When trout are taking flies from the surface, most fly Then I noticed that he was moving slightly to one fishermen would rather toss a dry. It's easier to drift a side, and then the other, at odd intervals. It appeared as pair of wet flies through a choice pool, and much if he was grabbing an occasional drifting nymph. A simpler to lob a worm or other live bait. But just like cahill nymph was tried, and then my sure-fire brown the anglers, fish have a strange fascination for these long trout taker, the Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear in size 14 ... I flies and will hit them at times when they can't be urged couldn't even spook that fish. He simply didn't want to strike anything else. And for some strange reason, what I was giving him. that includes live bait too. The fishing had been so good, up to that point, that I Over the years I've read several versions of the Lee decided to move on and continue catching ordinary sized Wulff idea that states, more or less, that when a trout trout. But wait, give him a shot with a streamer and see sees something totally different from those things he's if he'd come for it. The worst that could happen is that used to seeing, he'll frequently grab it. In Wulff's most he'd take off, and that'd be the end of that. recent book Lee Wulff On Flies (Stackpole, Harrisburg, On the first pitch, the fly landed darn near on top of PA), he repeats this axiom calling it his "strawberries him. I didn't plan it that way but began to strip rapidly and cream" theory. Most humans like fresh strawberries as soon as the fly touched down. The pattern was a and cream, Wulff contends, and when we see them simple, grey squirrel number with silver tinsel body in offered on the menu, particularly when they're out of size six, I think. That fish literally stormed after the fly season, we jump at the chance for that great taste. It's a and had it stuck in his upper jaw before he knew what surprise. We didn't expect to see them, so we gobble happened. He measured 17 inches and had that bright them up. red adipose fin that Loyalsock browns frequently do.
12 • Pennsylvania Angler I don't think that the fly had a great deal to do with waters, and they were looking for something different. it. It was another case of that brownie seeing his dish of I've had this happen on too many occasions over the "strawberries and cream", and he couldn't resist years to discount the willingness of good-sized fish to sampling it. grab a streamer when something else was catching the Not all trout will nail a streamer on the first shot, but rest of the fish. the curious thing about fish coming to them is that if they do make one start, they'll frequently come back for Do give streamers a chance, and don't always wait another try. If you get a follow and no take, move the until all else fails. Start right out in the morning, or fly faster the next time . . . not slower. The idea is to whenever you first hit the stream, with one of the long give the trout as little time as possible to make up its flies. The traditional Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Mickey mind. Don't worry about moving it too fast. If a fish Finn, Edson Tiger, Muddler, and a dozen others are all decides to hit that fly, it's hard to take it away from good producers, and your special concoction might be him. too. I'm not at all sure that pattern is the number one That Loyalsock fish and the South Woods trout of success factor. Like people, certain fish (frequently the nearly 40 years ago have a lot in common. They were larger ones) don't follow the crowd. They're looking for solitary fish, larger than average for those particular "strawberries!"
June—1982 • 13 Goldenrod And Walleyes
Gerry Kingdom olling meadows of goldenrod My wife looked ahead to a right that opened a broad visual expanse R and Queen Anne's lace colored side turnoff and sat upright. "This before us. And there it was, nestled the roadside fields, as my teenaged must be Route 670," she between mountains of green, a 172- daughter, Janet; my wife, Linda; announced, with a tone of gleeful acre lake that we had heard was and I, drove up a steep incline on anticipation. "We're almost there." packed with walleyes and a host of Route 371 in Wayne County. "Mr. Durkin said it really looks other piscatorial delights. Above, a blue sky showed promise. beautiful when you first spot it from Our expectations were more than The readied fishing rods that lay the hill," Janet chimed in. "He said realized. Not only was Belmont between the bucket seats of our little you look right down on the lake Lake one of the most beautiful yellow Mustang, and the pristine from high up." fishing spots that we had uncovered beauty that surrounded us, made us We drove ahead a few miles, in all of northeastern Pennsylvania, fidgety and impatient. In short, we roller coastering our way along the but it was also a mighty good lake couldn't wait to start fishing. highway until we reached a summit into which we could cast our bait.
14 • Pennsylvania Angler Belmont Lake is one of the most beautiful fishing spots in northeastern Pennsylvania, and it's not a bad place to cast your bait either.
By day's end, Janet had netted a lately, we probably could have done and strike differently from other smallmouth bass that measured better, but we were content with the species of fish. close to 14 inches; Linda missed results as they were. However, what First, the walleye is a bottom what appeared to be a good-sized we learned about walleye fishing at feeder, so you must be certain that pickerel or a small musky; and I Belmont Lake, from the locals to your bait, whatever it might be, is had boated a walleye that, with a whom we spoke, will undoubtedly fished somewhere within a foot or little exaggeration, passed the 20- enable us to do better next time out, so of the lake's bottom. Since the inch mark (but with no exaggeration which should be any day now. contour of Belmont Lake changes measured 19!4 inches.) It was a fun According to Belmont Lake rather dramatically, you should day indeed. steadies, walleyes are being caught know how deep the bottom is at any Had we known at the time just in good numbers both early in the given point, in order to keep your how well walleyes have been hitting morning and just around dusk. offering within the feed zone. You One angler with whom we can keep tabs on the depth simply chatted, Earl Kushinski of Wilkes- by dropping a testing weight and Barre, told us that he had taken his measuring the line payed out. walleye limit on the Saturday past. On our Belmont Lake outing, we (Special regulations are in effect at ran into what we assumed were Belmont in regards to fish limits, so walleye strikes about midway be sure to review your summary between the boat launch and the handbook before embarking on a northern shoreline. However, journey there.) He also made note because we didn't know the depth at of the fact that on that same which we were fishing, we lost Saturday, he was one of six anglers precious time trying to get back to who had taken their walleye limits. the right depth, and never did get When you take into acccount that any sustained action. Belmont is very under fished (no Keep in mind too, that walleyes shoulder-to-shoulder stuff here by are crafty feeders and will often eat any means), you begin to realize away at your presentation before that six men taking their limit is a you realize what's happening. For good sign indeed. this reason you should use a light Among the other tips which we sinker to get your bait down. You gathered, were a few that related to should also develop a sense of feel the latest methods for taking that will tell you the type of bottom Belmont Lake walleyes. At least one structure you're fishing over, and angler insisted that the southern whether or not a walleye is in fact area of the lake offered the best biting. action. His contention was, that When setting the hook, be sure moving water which entered the that the walleye has taken the bait lake's egress on the southern completely. You can tell by raising shoreline attracted the walleyes to the rod very slowly and feeling that vicinity. His theory made sense, whether or not the resistance moves to me at least, because I had taken with the line. (If the line itself the walleye mentioned above at the doesn't budge, you might be exact same location. snagged.) Regardless of your choice of Another tip we found worthwhile fishing spots at Belmont Lake, you came from an angler who suggested should be aware that walleyes feed that we use minnows in the 2 to 4-
June—1982 • IS inch category for Belmont walleyes. He said that worms will also work, but not nearly as well as minnows. Whatever your approach to walleyes in Belmont Lake, you will probably do best at this particular fishery if you hone your walleye fishing skills, and fish for this species in particular. The lake does boast a healthy population of smallmouths, pickerel, panfish and even muskies, but right now the walleye action is exceptional. Incidentally, if yours is an angling family, you might like to extend your day in the Belmont Lake area by dropping in at the Pleasant Mount Fish Hatchery and having a look at the tens of thousands of fish that are being reared there. Although there is no formal visitor's center at the hatchery, guests are welcome each day between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Be sure to read the posted guidelines before entering the premises. The hatchery is located on Route 371, a literal stone's throw from Belmont Lake. It has ample space for a pleasant and informative walk, and the fresh outdoor air of the Pocono northeast will do your soul good. In summary, this picturesque Belmont Lake area offers fishing privacy, scenic beauty and great fishing. You owe it to yourself to give it a try. Simply take Route 371 west to Route 670, then head north and follow Fish Commission signs. It is well worth the drive!
16 • Pennsylvania Angler Wild Trout Management
Part III
June—1982 '17 by Delano R. Graff, Chief volved in supporting the fishery. ed costs. If hatchery production, or Division of Fisheries The total statewide contribution of any other phase of Fish Commission wild trout is significant and must be programs, is reduced in an effort to Pennsylvania Fish Commission recognized. Consider the fact that the cut costs, in the next year or two, it n arts I and II of this series on wild combined stocking from Commission will be the result of economic neces M trout management (refer to AN trout hatcheries and sportsmen-oper sity brought on by the same problems GLER issues April-May) dealt with ated cooperative nurseries is about and circumstances that face all of us, the Commission's definition of wild 5.5 million trout. Pennsylvania has not as a result of, nor in any way con trout water, criteria and methods about 1.2 million licensed anglers — nected with, wild trout management. used to select and classify waters for about 60 to 70 percent of whom fish Did you ever hear anyone say, wild trout management, and what at least once a year for trout. A na "The only people who care about techniques (including special regula tional survey indicates that Pennsyl wild trout fishing are a few fly fishing tions) should be used to best manage vania has a million people — includ snobs in tweed hats and knickers"? wild trout waters. This final article ing unlicensed juveniles who fish for I've heard that quote, and a number deals with some widely held beliefs trout at least once a year. That means of variations on the same theme, about wild trout, and just what the even if 80 percent of all stocked trout from too many people to dismiss it facts really are relative to some of survived and were caught, the catch lightly. If that's a widely held percep those beliefs. It's important that an would amount to no more than five tion of who cares about wild trout glers are well informed about wild trout per angler per year. The point is fishing, then there's cause for con trout and their management potential clear: a great many wild trout are cern. I can understand why that asso in Pennsylvania. Angler support for caught but not recognized — mis ciation has been established: Trout wild trout can only develop if anglers taken credit goes to hatcheries! The anglers who tend toward expensive have a good understanding of what hatcheries do a fine job at both the bamboo or graphite fly rods, fragile can (or cannot) be accomplished Cooperative Nursery and Commis and overpriced reels from England, through directed management for sion level, but we all owe a great deal and many pocketed vests decorated wild trout. to wild trout. Without them, trout with patches from every fly fishing There is a persisting misconception fishing in Pennsylvania would be a group in the free world, have been ac that "Pennsylvania really doesn't short-term affair! Pennsylvania has tive in promoting the concept of have enough wild trout to justify their enough wild trout in enough streams "quality angling" and "wild trout specific management." The earlier that it certainly does make a differ management". I'm glad they have articles in this series should have ence how we manage them. With to done so, but I'm also acutely aware of clearly established that Pennsylvania day's increased number of well negative aspects of a too close of an has a substantial amount of top-qual equipped trout anglers it makes more "association of wild trout manage ity "Class A" wild trout water. It is a difference than ever before! ment with any one identifiable inter fact that the "Class A" designation There is a suspicion afoot among a est group or narrow segment of the currently fits only a small percentage certain segment of the angling public angling public. It may come as a sur of Commonwealth waters now man that "all this talk about wild trout prise to many of my fellow fly fisher aged for trout, but concentrating at management is just a smokescreen to men, but to a fair number of people tention on only the very best waters cut hatchery production and save "quality anglers" seem a bit weird. ignores the large number of wild trout money." Wild trout management Let's face it, there is an amusing side harvested in other waters supporting isn't a smokescreen for anything; it's to a person wearing tweed hats or less dense populations of wild trout. a long overdue effort to save some canvas hats with little air vents on the Statewide survey and inventory has thing of value while we still have it. side, patches all over their fishing identified a large number of "Class There are no plans to cut hatchery vests with flex lites, surgical tools, B" wild trout waters which support a production as a result of wild trout and assorted paraphernalia dangling population of wild trout that could be management. It's a fact that the new on or about them, and a multi-trayed considered "moderate," that is, 20 to management approach will mean re fly box strapped to their chest. Mat 25 kg per hectare (pounds/acre) of distribution of hatchery trout, some ters are made even worse by the fact wild fish. Streams supporting "mod shifting of numbers, and emphasis to that a few of these highly visible and erate" populations are normally different or even new stocking sites, identifiable fly fishers tend to be, in managed by stocking to provide a but no programmed reduction in pro tentionally or otherwise, somewhat more rewarding fishery than could be duction of hatchery fish. Also, de condescending in their attitude to sustained by the wild trout alone. The spite the fact that the Commission ward anglers who do not share their point is, that even in the "Class B" faces a critical need to cut costs, wild views and philosophies. Regrettably, wild trout streams a considerable trout management probably won't re the attitude among other anglers can number of stream-bred fish is in sult in any decrease in hatchery relat become one of, "if that stuck-up
18 • Pennsylvania Angler Wild trout management and wild trout angling means much more than catering to the whims and desires of fly fisher man.
June—1982 • 19 snob wants it, it can't be good for specially regulated trout water in special regulations. It is a broad- me!" That attitude must be correct Pennsylvania will increase. In addi based program directed at all ed. I'm sure the self-styled "quality tion to those selected for special regu anglers interested in wild trout. angler" will benefit from wild trout lations, many "Class A" wild trout management, but no more so than a waters will be managed under a basic Most of the facts offered thus far great many others — a broad repre approach which means no stocking, have been intended to clear up misun sentation of Pennsylvania anglers no lure restrictions, and habitat pro derstandings or correct mistaken stand to benefit from, and are inter tection as the management tools in ef ideas held by those who might not be ested (or should be) in, wild trout fect. This basic wild trout manage well informed about, or in favor of, management. ment will be applied to most of our wild trout management. Actually, the Wild trout management and wild brook trout waters and on many Fish Commission's historical empha trout angling means much more than brown and mixed brook and brown sis on the need for hatchery trout to catering to the whims and desires of trout waters. We want to be sure that provide recreation has created much fly fishermen. We have a great many we can continue to provide a wild of the public's lack of recognition of Pennsylvania anglers who prefer to trout angling experience where the the positive aspects and potential of fish for wild trout, but are not (even choice of bait or artificials is left to wild trout management in Pennsylva if they are fly fishers) involved with the personal preference of the angler, nia, The Commission's emphasis is the "quality angler" image. These and where harvest of wild trout is still changing to include the need for folks are, in their own way, just as a component of the fishery. stocked trout and recognition of the concerned about, and sensitive to the Thus far, I have attempted to ad natural resource we have in wild quality of their sport as any of us who dress some of the most prevalent mis trout. There's little reason to doubt might happen to prefer fly fishing conceptions about wild trout and wild that most will support, or at least not over other forms of trout angling. trout management; those views held oppose, wild trout management once Wild trout management is for not on by the "man-on-the-street". Before I they are given facts on the state of the ly conservation of the resource, but address some of the misconceptions resource, a well-balanced program for the benefit of everyone who ap held by the "wild trout enthusiasts" with emphasis on both resource and preciates the taking of a truly natural who may be all for wild trout man recreation, and a chance to experi product — whether to release or to agement, but have some unrealistic ence the fishing provided by such a eat, it's still wild trout. A recent con expectations, I'd like to summarize. I program. So much for "average an versation one of my friends had with hope that those who have had some glers," but what about those folks an angler, a gentleman in his 70's who uneasiness about, or fears of, wild who consider themselves as "not-so- is not a fly fishing purist, is symbolic. trout management can now better ap average anglers," the wild trout en He, in effect, protested: "I wish you preciate and support it. I hope I have thusiast and "quality angler"? They fellows wouldn't stock some of these made the following facts clear: too carry with them a baggage of mis streams. Why there's so many people conceptions, half-truths, and sweep coming in after those hatchery trout 1. Pennsylvania has some "Class ing generalizations about wild trout that it's getting so you can hardly A" wild trout waters which de management which must be ad catch an original trout anymore." So serve exceptional management, dressed if these anglers are to have re much for the myth that the only peo management for the best poten alistic expectations about what will ple who care about wild trout man tial of that resource. constitute wild trout management in agement are a "few guys in tweed 2. Pennsylvania has a surprising Pennsylvania. hats and knickers." number of waters that support Most of the "quality angling" set An often voiced concern is that all moderate populations of wild have been outspoken critics of the "Class A" wild trout waters will be trout which make a significant Commission's trout stockings and vo placed under special regulations. contribution to the angler's har cal in their support of wild trout man That's simply not the case. It is a fact vest and may, in the future, pro agement. Their criticism of trout that management options proposed vide an even greater share. stocking practices is, in some in for wild trout (as discussed in Part II 3. Wild trout management is in no stances, justifiable — and support of of this series) do include special regu way a "smokescreen" to reduce wild trout management in the right lations intended to reduce harvest and production of hatchery trout. place, for the right reason, is always minimize hooking mortality. These Commission hatcheries and co welcome — however, they often have regulations require the prohibition of operative nurseries will continue a deep emotional involvement in bait fishing and do stress lower creel to be major contributors to tackle restrictions and belief in sim limits and higher size limits. Special trout fishing in Pennsylvania. plistic solutions to complex trout regulations will be imposed on select 4. Wild trout management is not a management problems. Some of the ed "Class A" wild trout water; and if "fly fishing program" nor will myths and treasured beliefs of "qual all goes as hoped for, the amount of all wild trout waters be under ity anglers" will have to be discarded 20 • Pennsylvania Angler or modified if they are to have a real that trout stocking and attendant an who tries to defend such a line of rea istic perception of what wild trout gling pressure may have a negative in soning. Remember my earlier exam management can, and cannot accom fluence on some wild trout popula ple of Slate Run — an exceptional plish — indeed, of what really consti tion. However, it is not a safe gener population of wild trout, a real treas tutes "wild trout management." alization to say stocking alone — the ure for wild trout enthusiasts — well, "Hatchery trout stockings have de mere presence of hatchery trout — Slate Run has been heavily stocked stroyed our wild trout" or "Stocked will always have a detectable negative for years. Admittedly, this stream is trout ruin wild trout populations" are effect on wild trout. There are any managed under special regulations, representative quotes of the wild number of moderate ("Class B") but it has been stocked and still has trout enthusiasts who truly believe brown trout populations existing in an excellent wild trout population. that stocking, with no other pres streams which are currently stocked The fertility and holding capacity of sures, can ruin a wild trout popula and will continue to be stocked in the the stream, the number and species of tion. I strongly support the idea that future. It's a safe bet that, if habitat stocked fish, the length of time until "Class A" wild trout waters should is not degraded, those trout popula they are harvested, and the possible be managed for wild trout and no tions will persist with no further loss limiting factors to the wild trout pop stocking should be permitted. I am al in quality. In other words, it's simply ulation are just a few of the variables so very much aware that, on many hogwash to say that stocking in and which effect the impact of stocking. brook trout streams and some brown of itself is always a negative influence That is why I avoid generalizations trout waters, angling pressure created on wild trout. It is, in my opinion, a about the negative impact of all by stocking has resulted in over-har poor generalization and one that stocking. Such determinations must vest of wild trout. There is no doubt damages the credibility of anyone be made carefully.
There are any number of moderate "class B" brown trout populations existing in streams which are currently stocked and will continue to be stocked in the future.
June—1982 • 21 "We'd have more wild trout if the results in over-harvest and too much almost becomes too much of an emo Fish Commission would use Vibert attention being paid to individual tional and psychological cost on staff boxes." Some ideas just never die, streams, then steps will be taken to re to continue to resist it. The whole is even when there's no factual basis to strict harvest. Many "Class A" sue of whether an extended angling their existence. Vibert boxes and brown trout waters will be given pro season will be permitted on selected Whitlock-Vibert boxes are, for the tection through special regulations, "Class A" wild trout waters is unre benefit of those fortunate folks that while others will be open to all nor solved. It may be that this is one in haven't heard of them, little plastic mal angling techniques. No problems stance where myth will win over real boxes into which eyed trout eggs are are anticipated, but some selected ity. Certainly, the resource will not be placed, and then the box is buried in populations will be monitored and, harmed by restricting angling in the stream gravel and a few weeks later certainly, waterways patrolmen and fall; all that's to be lost is some an they hatch and PRESTO!, instant fishery managers will be watching gling opportunity, which it appears wild trout. They are not a useful tool carefully to see if problem areas de the prime resource user group is more in most situations. The problem with velop. than willing to give up. It's one of Vibert boxes is that the idea ignores As to those who want everything those items that will be worked out as the basic biology of trout. Wild trout under fly-fishing-only regulations, I the fine details of statewide trout eggs tend to have a very high hatching find that biases embarrassing. It is management are developed. This sort success and the highest mortality of discouraging and disappointing to see of falls into a social, rather than bio trout occur in the first year of life. Al the emotional involvement and in logical category. so, lack of sufficient spawning adults vestment of time and energy some fly That's it for the wild trout enthusi is rarely a problem in Pennsylvania's fishermen can muster over how a fish ast. Let's forget about dwelling on brown trout streams (where most of may be caught or who can fish, while the evils of hatchery trout and con the Vibert box folks try their luck). almost totally losing sight of the fact centrate on the positive aspects of The best way to have wild trout is to that we started out trying to protect wild trout; let's convert all the Vibert protect the habitat and let wild trout and enhance a resource — wild trout. boxes to cricket cages — a duty for take care of spawning. The next best When the how and the who becomes which they're generally more suited way, where spawning success or fry more important than the resource, than to trout management — let's fo survival is low, but trout growth and we've lost sight of something impor cus on the resource and not on what holding capacity is good, is to stock tant and it's time to rethink priorities. tackle is used; and let's try to main fingerlings. Fingerling stocking has (I use the "we" advisedly because 1 tain an open mind about extended limited application, but we do have am a fly-fisher, but I detest the snob trout seasons. Wild trout manage those streams where "put-grow - bish element of the fraternity and, ment is on the threshold of being a re take" fishery management shows real contrary to some of my friends' sus ality in Pennsylvania. Angler under promise. A good coverage of pros picions, I do not own a pair of knick standing and support is needed if it is and cons of Vibert boxes can be ers!) to succeed. The time is now — we found in an article by Dr. Dwight "If we're to have wild trout fish have the information, the resource, Webster that was published in Trout ing, then we must not permit fall an and the commitment to provide wild Magazine. I recommend reading Dr. gling over spawners." There's a hard trout management. Trout fishing in Webster's article "Spawning" in Vol. to suppress motherhood myth among Pennsylvania can be made better — 22, No. 4, of Trout Magazine, Au wild trout anglers that says that some the variety of experiences for anglers tumn 1981, pages 6-13. how a spawner becomes suddenly enhanced. Recreation based on easier to catch, and is somehow more hatchery trout will always be impor "If we tell people these are the vulnerable than that same fish was in tant, but not everyone prefers the an "Class A" wild trout waters and August. My feelings are, that a sea gling experience provided by stock don't have special regulations on all son that extends through spawning ing. We have the resource to provide of them, they'll be' fished out!" will not harm wild trout. We've no alternative experiences based on wild That's a concern that is voiced by evidence that any damage has been trout. Despite the fact that there are some very sincere wild trout anglers, done by extended seasons. Anyone those who believe us to be "a hatch and it is also voiced by those who sim who wishes to be further acquainted ery bureaucracy," managing catch- ply feel that bait anglers and spin with my opinion should read "Au able trout for mass recreation, the fishers are "different" and not ac tumn Angling and the Big Spawners" staff and members of the Pennsylva ceptable. I understand the concern of in the Pennsylvania Angler, Vol. 48, nia Fish Commission can identify the first group — their concern is No. 9, September 1979, pages 16-17. with author John Voelker who once motivated by sincere interest in the In any event, this is a tough one to wrote, "Being out in the woods fish welfare of wild trout and the angling handle. ing is one of the few places left on provided by natural populations. There is such strong resistance to earth where a man can find solitude Certainly, if wild trout management autumn angling in some circles that it without loneliness."
22 • Pennsylvania Angler Boating BLACK BASS BY FR=P GUARPIN—R. WHETHER LARGE OR SMALL- MOUTH, BL&CK BASS ARE RATED THE TOP AMERICAN GAMEFISH. ONE OF THE MOST COMBATIVE OF FISHJHE BASS IS NOT CHOOSY WHERE HE LIVES OR WHAT HE STRIKES. LARGEMOUTH BASS LURK IN LAKES AND ^TREAMS^REFER i WARM WATER AND WEEDS. HAS \ HORIZONTAL MARKING.
STATE RECORD 9 LB. 5 02. ON NIGHT- CRAWLER, 1981, SPRINGTON RESERVOIR THE SMALLMOUTH BASS ISA DUTIES WHEN UNDER WA Y PREDATOR OF CLEAR FLOWING The operator's responsibility passengers. Make sure they stay STREAMS, COOL^fc LAKES AND doesn't end after the boat is loaded seated and act in a safe, respon ROCKY AREAS.,*^^^-^ HAS. and you've left the dock area. When sible manner while aboard. underway, always: An additional way to enjoy boating is through an overnight cruise. 1. Be thoroughly familiar with the However, before venturing out you way the boat handles. Know the should consider stowing extra parts VERTICAL distance it takes to stop after and tools aboard. A portable radio, MARKINGS. throttling down, the turning ra compass, flashlights, drinking water, STATE RECORD dius, most efficient cruising extra line, toilet articles, insect repel 7 LB. 1 OZ. ON speed, etc. lent, warm bedding and matches also SUCKERJ98I 2. Avoid taking any unnecessary are recommended before setting out. IN SUSQUEHANNA R. risks that may endanger the Another overnight concern is the fil MALE BASS WORK crew or boat. Always choose the ing of a float plan. The boating float safest course. HARD AT SPAWNINGTIME.THEY plan is designed to assist people in lo BUILD THE BEDS, FIND THE FEMALE5, 3. Frequently check your position cating you if something should hap FERTILIZE THE EGGS, GUARD THE in relation to landmarks and pen. Leave the plan with a local NESTS UNTIL THE EGGS HATCH aids to navigation. Know where marina operator, one of your rela AND ONLY THEN A. DO THEY you are at all times. tives or a close friend. (Be sure to can LEAVE. 4. Note the weather, wind and cur cel the plan when you return). rent, if they are changing, and Allow plenty of time to reach your how they affect the boat. destination. 5. Know the rules of the road, and Keep a log. It's fun, and gives you be sure to follow them. In heavy a record of your trip and everything traffic areas slow down and be that happened. extra cautious. Use the motor wisely. Full speed 6. Always stop to render assistance ahead burns up extra gas and saves to those in danger or distress. little time. On boats with planing This means anything from a hulls, get up a planing speed and then stalled engine to more serious slow as much as possible while still situations. staying on a plane. This is the boat's 7. In addition to the boat, the most efficient speed. Conserve our operator is responsible for the energy resources.
June—1982 • 23 The Other Side Of The Tournament Trail
by Wes Bower very fisherman should attend or award presentations and a wind-up Recently I had the opportunity to enter at least one major bass banquet. accompany a waterways patrolman tournament. I am sure they would Finally, you pack your during his rounds of a major agree it is an unforgettable equipment, say hasty good-byes, tournament. The site was Raystown experience. Spectators and and head home. The tournaments Lake, the tournament was the contestants alike quickly become are a lot of fun but they can be Pennsylvania Team Championship involved in all the excitement, confusing and hectic. and the WP was Jim Valentine. anticipation and frustration that is a But, there's another side of the While accompanying Valentine part of competitive fishing. But tournament trail. How about the during the tournament, it didn't unless you are a tournament angler, guys behind the scene, the ones who take me long to figure out that you probably aren't aware of all the make it all happen; the marina watching over Raystown Lake on a trials and tribulations that are truly owner, the tournament committee, hot, sultry summer weekend is a full involved. and particularly, representatives time job. This 8,300 acre For starters, prior to the fishing from the Pennsylvania Fish impoundment which supports 110 event itself, you have the last minute Commission. miles of shoreline attracts tuning of your boat and motor, One of the rarely thought of job unbelievable numbers of fishing gear, and other related assignments of the District recreationists. Add a full scale equipment. Locating lodging is Waterways Patrolman and his fishing tournament and you have usually a problem, no matter how deputies, is to oversee fishing the potential for major problems. early you try to make reservations, tournaments. It is their Fortunately, these problems just and once you finally do arrive at the responsibility to see that all the didn't seem to develop. Much of the tournament site, you must locate the participants not only have a safe credit for this has to go to Valentine launching area, attend team or and enjoyable tournament, but all and his capable deputies. They tournament meetings, confer and state rules and regulations are manage to keep a tight reign on plan strategy with your fishing understood and observed. And that things. partner, and study lake contour the activities of other recreational But this situation doesn't just maps and weather conditions. All of visitors to the water area are not happen. A lot of pre-planning and this, and you haven't even wet a infringed upon. Those of us who coordinated work is involved. line. use Pennsylvania's boating waters Valentine explained that he starts Once the tournament begins there on a busy weekend afternoon can planning for the tournament as soon are daily weigh-ins, more meetings, relate to that problem. as a date is selected.
24 * Pennsylvania Angler Valentine serves as a clearing house, working closely with Raystown Lake Park Manager, Bob Bell, to make sure that multiple conflicting activities will not occur. He also works closely with the Seven Points Marina, the Huntingdon County Tourist Promotion Agency, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and other concerned agencies. Deputies are also alerted so they can free their schedules and be available for duty on tournament days. And as the tournament date draws near, Valentine double checks on boat security, towing plans for disabled crafts, and parking for cars and boat trailers. I spent three long, but exciting days with Waterways Patrolman Valentine and his deputies. On the day prior to the tournament, Valentine spent most of the day at the Seven Points Marina, the tournament's headquarters, answering inquiries as to what lures were working, and locations of any "honey holes" where trophy sized lunkers might be lurking. In between questions, we readied the two patrol boats. After a short dinner break we attended the pre-tournament meeting which included the drawing of partners and run-down of the regulations. In between some good natured joshing with the fishermen, Valentine reviewed the ground rules as to enforcement of fish laws on Raystown Lake. On the first day of the Waterways Patrolman Jim Valentine oversees Bass tournament we began our duties in Tournament at Raystown. the dark hours and ended them in the same way. At dawn we watched the stagger start and marveled at the Raystown Lake is used by many could hit. rooster tail spray of over 100 bass people, all wanting diversified water We beat the first bass boat into boats at full throttle. As the sun related activities. They all have their tournament headquarters by an hour rose over the Terrace Mountains we own special reason for being out and Valentine and his deputies, as discussed Valentine's philosophy on there. well as Pennsylvania B.A.S.S. bass tournaments. Jim commented, While Valentine insists that the officials, quickly set up for the "I think bass tournaments are great. tournament contestants share the weigh-in. The guys that fish the tournament water with other boaters, he also The weigh-in is a festive affair. have done a lot for both the sport realizes that the 200 competitors are Valentine's off the cuff remarks, and the promotion to Raystown not only trying to have a good time, knowledge of the competitors and Lake. A prime example of this is the but they are also competing for a condition of the lake all helped to habitat improvement structures, slot for regional, and possibly keep the activities moving in a fun- willow tree planting program, and national, recognition. Jim and his filled fashion. After the last bass the annual clean-up. These guys deputies try to give the lunker was weighed, the competitors contribute to Raystown Lake more seekers a wide berth. They realize headed back to motels and trailers than they ever take from it. But as that making an unnecessary boat- for a good meal and a chance to much empathy as I have for these boarding might possibly be the exact relax before the second days blast guys, we have to remember that instant when that trophy lunker off.
June—1982 • 25 . Not so with Jim and his deputies. There were violations to be settled and investigations to be discussed. The sun had long set in the west before we made our way to his home where Jim had a chance to answer some pressing phone calls that had come into his headquarters during the day. The second and final day of the tournament saw this writer, Valentine and daybreak arrive on Raystown Lake at exactly the same time. Even though the staggered start was identical to the previous morning, it continued to be a thrilling sight to behold. We did manage to sneak in for a well-deserved breakfast, but for the remainder of the day, with weekend boating and a major tournament underway, Valentine and his deputies were kept busy. This writer learned that there is a world of difference between spending a fun- filled day in a pleasure boat sipping cold drinks and snacks, and working in an 18-foot patrol boat. Most of my bones and muscles ached by the end of the day. The second weigh-in day was almost a duplicate of the first, but with the tension as to the final outcome. And finally, the tournament was over! The banquet program was a huge success. And there was no question that Valentine was partially responsible for the fun-filled
Tournament anglers find the bass, in a tournament that is run well be cause of behind the scenes activity.
program. He kept the activities history. For a select few it had been rolling with his wit, knowledge of additional glory and honors and an the contestants, and information opportunity to compete in regional, and anecdotes about the and perhaps national, tournaments. tournament. For most, it had been a pleasant Of course, the highlight of the interlude in their normal daily evening was the naming of the team routine. that would represent Pennsylvania But for Jim Valentine, it had been in the regional fish-off. a welcome change in the never- As the last goodby echoed ending program of making A tournament angler weighs his through the room the Pennsylvania Raystown Lake a safer and better catch. State Team Championship became place for fishing and boating.
26 • Pennsylvania Angler Scraper Speeds Scaling
by Don Shiner Those who prefer to clean and scale their catch, rather than fillet them, have devised all sorts of tricks to speed the work involved. Some use scissor blades, claiming they remove scales faster than do sharp knives. Others scale catches before they have a chance to dry out in creels. Still others claim that dipping them in moderately hot water makes scales peel off better, though I cannot vouch for this wrinkle. Then, too, there is no shortage of saw-toothed scrapers, with superior claims made for each one. There is one, however, that does impressive work in dislodging the most stubborn scales on tough, old hides. It was first home-crafted by Fenwick Douthat, a fisherman friend of mine. I stood near him one day, filleting my catch of walleyes, while he scaled a catch of bass. It took some doing on my part to keep up with his pace. Rubbing the scraper briskly over each fish, he really sent scales flying. Despite bones remaining in his dressed fish, he insisted that flavor is improved when fish, of some kinds, are cooked with "jackets" on. Douthat's scraper, made of wood and nails, ranks among the best that I've seen. It measures about 7 inches long, half of which is a comfortably shaped handle. Rows of tightly packed nails protrude three- eighths of an inch through one side. The nails, of heavy diameter, have all ends filed flat. Somehow, the flattened nails lift scales and dislodge them easily. Now is a good time to make one or several nail-filled scrapers. Keep one ready, in the tackle box, to scale spring catches. The others make suitable gifts for friends. That way, they won't need to stand in line, pleading for a loan of yours! Below, handmade scraper dislodges the toughest scales with ease. Right, Use a piece of scrap wood one half inch thick, 7 inches long and 2 inches wide. Shape one end into a comfortable handle.
Score the backside of scraper with three- eighth inch squares to serve as a guide to drill holes.
28 • Pennsylvania Angler Drilled holes prevent nails from splitting wooden han ^^•B dle.
flh^. ^V • iJB HI^K ^^B B^^ >2$ jfl
Left, cut sheet metal to fit back, and cover nails to prevent them from back ing out. Below, scraper helps ready fish for the frying pan.
HF^^I
w^^™^p^™
JraH BkVi L*4i,' j; H # il M fei IT- 1|
*** .• I
' '»
,,e,«p»'^ .^ff*-
II
#•
June—1982 H29 Hard Way Striper Carl Grubb is the current holder of a new state record striper. The fact that he caught it through the ice only adds to the story.
knew that 1 was hooked on to a big brother, Donald "Duck" Grubb. By Jay Zack critter. When I finally horsed it to the Duck had been fishing with them, t had been a good ice fishing sea hole and I saw it was a trophy striper, but left shortly before the big happen / son for Carl "Sonny" Grubb, but I was surprised, and excited. Terry ing. As soon as Duck saw the striper, he knew it was almost over. Already was right there beside me and with he made an educated guess that it was it was the first of March, and by this only an 8-inch hole cut, we knew we a new record. He grabbed for the time last year, the ice had already had problems. We made an instant scales and made an unofficial read gone off of Raystown Lake. Sonny decision, gaffed it, and managed to ing. What they saw convinced them and his fishing companion, Terry bring it out tail first. I'll tell you, we to head to Huntingdon and have it Fisher, were idly speculating on just were two happy guys to see that weighed on official scales. They did, how many trips they might have left, striper finally floppi ng on the ice." and the "hard way striper" weighed when the flag went up on Sonny's Sonny Grubb and Terry Fisher knew in at 22 pounds, 4 ounces and meas homemade tip-up. they had a trophy-sized striped bass, ured an incredible 38 inches — a new When Sonny reacted to the flag, he but neither considered that Grubb's Pennsylvania state record. It sur had little thought that in a few min oversized "rock" would establish a passed the previous record of 19 utes he would be in possession of one new state record. pounds, 14 ounces, which was held by of the very few Raystown Lake It was near 6 p.m. with darkness Huntingdon's Gary Ellenberger. striped bass taken through the ice; closing in, when the two happy an Actually, Sonny's brother Duck and one which would forever be re glers picked up their gear, left the ice, knows all about state record stripers. membered as the "hard way state rec and took the long hike across the On June 2, 1980, he reeled in a striped ord striper." ridge to Upper Corners Road where bass weighing 18 pounds, 7 ounces; at As Sonny tells it, "The fish wasn't they had parked their car. They were that time a new state record. Unfor putting up much of a fight, certainly a tired, but happy pair when they tunately, Duck's reign didn't last not like a spring or fall striper, but 1 stopped at the home of Sonny's long; sixteen days later, Robert Price brought home a 19 pound trophy. Perhaps that was poetic Raystown Lake justice: Price had been the rec ord holder prior to Grubb. How big a striper is currently swim ming in the depths of Raystown Lake? That weight estimate is a popu lar subject in Raystown Country and receives much discussion. Waterways Patrolman Jim Valentine submitted scale samples of the new state record trophy to Fish Commission biolo gists, who verified that the striper was 9 years old. That made the new rec ord striper one of the original 1973 transplants. Many local anglers believe there is a 25 to 28 pound "super striper" al ready marauding the depths of Rays town. As to the future, well, it's any one's guess. But there's a lot of op timism that a 35 to 40 pound striper will eventually be taken. And that's a
30 • Pennsylvania Angler lot offish! Carl Grubb's special day, March 1, 1982, started as an uneventful excur sion. Sonny, Duck and Terry Fisher NOTES "Iran, the shutuL left home about 1 p.m. and headed for their favorite ice fishing spot, lo Garbage Man noon, from one spot. They were nice cated near the flats not far from mile- I was checking landowners prior to sized, and proved to be excellent eat marker 10. For Sonny it was his 20th stocking, and when I went to one ing. We had a great time catching trip; one or both of his two com house a lady came on the porch carry them and remarked at their one-time panions usually accompanied him. ing a bag of trash. I told her who I scarcity in the lower Susquehanna. For bait, they were using 3- to 4- was and asked if we could drive along I believe that this demonstrates the inch shiners. Sonny's tip-ups were the edge of her field to stock. She ability of a fish population to expand rigged with 12 pound test line. All said, "It would be O.K." As I went rapidly, if the environmental needs three anglers had several average size to leave, she said, "Now would you are met. Score one more hit for the perch to show for their afternoon's do me a favor?" I inquired, "What quality of the Susquehanna. effort. About 5 p.m. the wind picked can I do for you?" She replied, "Car HARRY H. REDLINE up and the temperature dropped ry this trash bag down to the road and Waterways Patrolman sharply. Duck decided to call it a day, set it there." I felt this was a very Lancaster County but Sonny and Terry decided to stick small payment for the use of her field it out until 6 p.m. It was a good deci and open fishing on this stream, so I sion — 30 minutes later, a new state obliged and played garbage man. record striper was heading for certifi cation. STANLEY HASTINGS Change In Regulations Perhaps because of its size (Rays- Waterways Patrolman One new change in regulations for town is an 8,300 acre lake with 110 Cameron County 1982 is the one concerning the keep miles of shoreline) the impoundment ing of bait-fish or fish-bait in unat has never gained the ice fishing popu tended containers. These containers larity many sportsmen thought it must now be identified by the owner's would. Some of the difficulties in or user's name, address and tele clude poor winter access to much of phone number. In Clinton County we the lake, and a problem with the ice "Fish Habitat" have a few suitable bait-fish streams, freezing unevenly. In periods of ex When apprehending a person for and due to some people taking hun treme cold, the shallow water bays littering, an officer usually can expect dreds of minnows over the limit, generally have safe ice. But sensible to receive one excuse or another from some of these streams are being over winter fishermen show respect for the the guilty party. (Nobody wants to be used. In the past, it was difficult to deep water channel. tagged a litterbug.) The range of ex determine who owned such con According to Waterways Patrol cuses extends from: I forgot to take it tainers. man Jim Valentine, most of the ice back to my car, to: I was going to go fishing is done near Snyders Run ac back and get it. The most innovative JAY JOHNSTON cess area, Seven Points, Aitch and excuse I have ever heard was received Waterways Patrolman James Creek Bays, Coffee Run, Shy from an ice fisherman who sunk his Clinton County Beaver and around milemarker 20 beverage can in the lake on the pre where the Route 994 bridge crosses tense of creating additional fish the lake. Perch is the favorite target, habitat! but since bass season is now open BUDFLYTE Great Fishing year-round at Raystown, some lunker Waterways Patrolman While working the World Fishing catches are being reported. Somerset County & Outdoor Expo at Suffern, NY, I One thing is for sure, even with the was forced to listen to many persons ice off the lake, Sonny Grubb will be telling me how great fishing Pennsyl out there looking for a striped bass Rock Bass vania's streams, rivers, lakes and just a little bit heavier than the new When I first came to this district, 8 ponds is. The beauty of these areas, state record. But so will brother years ago, rock bass were a pretty and the quality of the experience of Duck, Garry Ellenberger, Ron scarce item. On checking anglers in fered in Pennsylvania to a person that Grove, Robert Price, and several the first 5 years, I saw less than a spends most of the year cooped up in other former titleholders. Along with dozen of these river sunfishes. Then the outskirts of the "Big Apple," them, will be hundreds of other Rays- about 3 years ago, we began to see must leave a lasting, favorable im town fishing fanatics; all with a simi more and more of them in angler pression. I can't help but agree. lar mission — trying to wrestle the creels. ROBERT LYNN STEINER crown from the reigning champ. Waterways Patrolman Last year, Harold "Doc" Herr and That's what fishing for Raystown Southern Luzerne County Lake striped bass is all about. I caught about thirty in one after-
June—1982 • 31 Currents of litter properly, to avoid these stop the miseries and ravages of infla senseless deaths of our precious wild tion and an economy that is out of life. joint" Mr. Harris told the group, Reprinted from: "But they will not tolerate any reduc Montour Preserve's tions in environmental clean-up ef Newsletter forts — and will regard such cuts as threatening the very quality of life in Environmental Notes this last quarter of the twentieth cen Despite the fact that the country is tury". in the midst of a depression, a good Mr. Harris pointed out that number of American voters are will 82 — 14% majority favors strict or ing to spend money to protect and en stricter enforcement of clean air, and hance our environment. Louis Har an even higher 93 — 4% majority ris, Chairman of Louis and Harris favors the same for the clean water Associates, in a recent address to the act. Environmental Industry Council in Mr. Harris concluded his speech by New I&E Chief Washington D.C. revealed some sur stating that the environmental vote Michael Bickler has assumed the prising findings of his recent polls. alone could make a swing of 11 points duties as the Director of "The American people are willing in this year's elections for the House Information for the Pennsylvania to make sacrifices in many areas to and Senate. Fish Commission. Bickler served most recently as the Chief of Information for the Pennsylvania Volunteers Honored Delaware Department of Natural Governor Thornburgh has honored state volunteers by proclaiming April Resources, and comes to the 18-25 Volunteer Recognition Week. As part of the observance a number of Commission with a long list of Deputy Waterways Patrolmen, representing the Commission's nearly 500 credentials. Both his undergraduate trained and uniformed deputy force, and two representatives of the Coopera and graduate work featured a tive Nursery Program attended the signing of the Proclamation. combination of fisheries and communications. His professional work career has included positions in information-education with the U. S. Forest Service, Humboldt State University and the University of Delaware's Sea Grant Programs, and as the owner of his own public relations firm. Bickler assumed his new duties on March 22 and plans to make the Halifax area home for his wife and four children.
DISCARDED FISHING LINES KILL At least three Canada geese, a com mon loon, a muskrat, a ring-billed gull, a herring gull and a greater scaup have been killed on Lake Chil- lisquaque after their wings, beaks and legs became tangled in discarded monofilament fishing line. Other wildlife have been killed after swal lowing pull tabs from beverage cans. From left to right, Edgar Shaffer, Herman Bruehl, Sally Lipp, Wilmer Hock The tabs also get stuck around the ley, Edward Perry, Mrs. Thornburgh, Governor Thornburgh, Richard Little, beaks of the birds, making it impos Jay Newswanger, Ray Fluck, Douglas Diffenbaugh, Clarence Hoffman and sible for them to eat. Please dispose Kenneth Vail.
32 • Pennsylvania Angler PENNSYLVANIA FISH COMMISSION DIRECTORY State Headquarters: 3532 Walnut Street, Progress, Pa. (Mailing Address: PO Box 1673, Harrisburg, Pa. 17120) EXECUTIVE OFFICE Ralph W. Abele, Executive Director Chief Counsel Administrative Assistant Comptroller Dennis T. Guise Howard T. Hardie Ross E. Starner Office of Information Michael J. Bickler, Director 717-787-2579 Conservation Education, Stephen B.UIsh 717-787-7394 Pennsylvania Angler, Dave Wolf. Editor 717-787-2411 Special Publications, Larry Shaffer 717-787-7394 Angler Circulation, Eleanor Mutch 717-787-2363
BUREAU OF FISHERIES & ENGINEERING Edward R. Miller, P.E., Assistant Executive Director Robinson Lane, Bellefonte, Pa. 16823 Tel. 814-359-2754* ('Unless otherwise indicated, all offices within this bureau may be reached at this same address and telephone number.I Fred W. Johnson, Water Resources Coordinator 717-783-2808 (Office at State Headquarters, 3532 Walnut Street, Progress. Pa.) Dennis Ricker, Administrative Officer' Robert Hesser, Fishery Resources Biologist*
FISHERIES DIVISION* Delano Graff, Chief Trout Production Section, Ken Corl. Chief* Fisheries Management Section, Richard A Snyder. Chief Warmwater Production Section, Shyrl Hood. Chief 814-683-4451 Research Section, Vincent Mudrak. Chief 814-355-4837 Box 127, Linesville, Pa. 16424 Benner Spring Fish Research Station. RD 1. Box 485, Bellefonte, Pa. 16823 Fisheries Environmental Services Section, Jack Miller. Chief* Cooperative Nursery Branch, Paul Byers, Chief
FISH CULTURAL STATIONS BELLEFONTE, William Hoover. Superintendent 814-355-4159 LINESVILLE, Charles Sanderson, Superintendent 814-683-4451 RD 4, Box 230. Bellefonte. Pa. 16823 Box 127, Linesville, Pa 16424 BENNER SPRING, William Kennedy, Superintendent 814-355-4837 OSWAYO.D. Ray Merriman. Superintendent 814-698-2102 RD 1. Box 485. Bellefonte, Pa 16823 RD 2, Box 84, Coudersport, Pa. 16915 BIG SPRING, Eugene J. Rozaieski. Superintendent 717-776-3170 PLEASANT GAP, John Bair. Superintendent 814-359-2754 Box 341. RD 4. Newville. Pa 17241 Robinson Lane, Bellefonte, Pa 16823 CORRY-UNION CITY, Tom L. Clark. Superintendent 814-664-2122 PLEASANT MOUNT, Zenas Bean. Superintendent 717-448-2101 Corry. Pa. 16407 Pleasant Mount, Pa. 18453
FAIRVIEW, Neil Shea, Superintendent 814-474-1514 REYNOLDSDALE, Ralph Berkey. Superintendent 814-839-2211 2000 Lohrer Road, PO. Box 531, Fairview, Pa 16415 New Paris, Pa 15554
HUNTSDALE, Ted Dingle. Superintendent 717 486-3419 TIONESTA, Charles Mann, Superintendent 814-755-3524 Box 393, RD 5. Carlisle. Pa. 17013 Tionesta, Pa 16353
ENGINEERING DIVISION* Carl H. Nordblom, Chief Construction & Maintenance Section, Eugene Smith, Chief* Architectural A Engineering Section, K Ronald Weis. Chief*
BUREAU OF WATERWAYS Gene Sporl, Assistant Executive Director 717-787-2192 John Simmons, Administrative Officer 717-787-2192 Virgil Chambers, Boating Education 717-787-7684
LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION BOAT REGISTRATION/MARINE SERVICES DIVISION
Edward W. Manhart, Chief 717-787-2350 Paul Martin, Chief 717-787-3042 Kerry Messerle. Deputy Chiel 717-787-2350 Timothy Whitsel. Marine Services 717-787-3042 Barry A. Mechling. Deputy Waterways Patrolman Coordinator 717-787-2350 Betty Stroud. Boat Registrations 717-787-4480
REGIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICES
NORTHWEST, Walter G.Lazusky, Supervisor 814-437-5774 SOUTHWEST, Thomas F. Quarters, Supervisor 814-445-8974 Mailing Address P.O. Box 349, Franklin, Pa. 16323 Mailing Address RD 2, Somerset, Pa. 15501 Location 1281 OtterSt., Franklin, Pa. 16323 Location On Lake Somerset. Somerset. Pa.
NORTHCENTRAL, Paul F. Swanson, Supervisor 717-748-5396 SOUTHCENTRAL, Richard Owens. Supervisor 717-436-2117 Mailing Address Box 688, Lock Haven, Pa. 17745 Mailing Address RD 3, Box 109, Mifflintown, Pa. 17059 Location 129 Woodward Ave. (Dunnstown) Lock Haven, Pa. Location On Route 22. 3 miles west of Mifflintown, Pa.
NORTHEAST, Clair Fleeger, Supervisor 717-477-5717 SOUTHEAST, Norman W. Sickles, Supervisor 717-626-0228 Mailing Address Box 88, Sweet Valley, Pa. 18656 Mailing Address Box 6, Elm, Pa. 17521 Location On Harris Pond, Sweet Valley. Pa. Location On Speedwell Forge Lake on Brubaker Valley Road
BUREAU OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES (State Headquarters) Paul F. O'Brien, Director 717-787-6487 Personnel & Employment, Allison J. Mayhew 717-787-7057 License Section, Mary Stine 717-787-6237 Budget Analyst, Vincent Rollant 717-787-2599 Federal Aid Coordinator, Glen C. Reed 717-787-6391 Real Estate, John Hoffman 717-787-6376 Office Services Supervisor, Chester Peyton 717-787-2363 Purchasing (Harrisburg), Avyril Richardson 717-787-2732 Purchasing (Bellefonte), Dennis Shultz 814-359-2754