Category Archives: Fishing

2023 spring trout stocking beginning soon

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At the last Berkshire County League of Sportsmen’s (BCLS) meeting, DFW Western District  Supervisor Andrew Madden reported that MassWildlife will stock nearly 500,000 brook, brown, rainbow, and tiger trout across Massachusetts this year—nearly 470,000 will be stocked during the early spring.  The Western District waters should receive approximately 20% of the allotted fish.

Stocking in southeastern waters started March 6 and other regions of the state will begin as soon as weather conditions allow. As of Tuesday, March 14, no Western District waters have been stocked yet.

MassWildlife raises trout in its five hatcheries in Sandwich, Palmer, Belchertown, Sunderland, and Montague.

“Anglers can look forward to another outstanding trout fishing season. Thanks to the year-round work of our dedicated staff, the quality and size of the fish we are stocking this spring is exceptional,” said Dr. Caleb Slater, MassWildlife’s Chief of Hatcheries. “MassWildlife stocks these trout in more than 220 cities and towns across the Commonwealth, which helps make great fishing opportunities more accessible to anyone who enjoys the outdoors.”

Most of the trout will be over 12 inches, more than 175,000 rainbow trout will be over 14 inches, more than 51,000 brook trout will be over 12 inches, including 300 18”+ retired brood fish.  Some 50,000 brown trout will be over 12 inches, including nearly 700 18”+ retired brood fish and more than 2,500 tiger trout will be over 14 inches

Boating Safety Classes

 

At that same BCLS meeting, Environmental Police Lt. Tara Carlow reported that she scheduled two boating safety classes in our region. One is at Berkshire Community College on April 16 and April 23 from noon to 5:00 pm.  The other is at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club on April 4, 5, 11 and 13 from 5:00 to 8:30 pm. Participants must be there all days.

 

She reminded the League that Massachusetts law requires all motorboat operators who are 12 through 15 years of age to complete an approved boating course in order to operate a motorboat without adult supervision. Also, all PWC operators who are 16 or 17 years of age or older must complete an approved boating course.  The Massachusetts Environmental Police Requirements are: You must be at least 12 years old to take the course, and you do not have to be a resident of Massachusetts to take this course.

People must have written permission or trails must be open to the use of off-road vehicles (ORV) and all machines must be properly registered, even on their own property.  Pittsfield State Forest ORV season does not open until May 1, and may be delayed by muddy conditions.  All fines and regulations were modernized in 2010 when an 8-year-old boy was involved in a fatal ATV accident.

A Massachusetts law, enacted that year restricting the use of ORVs to those age 14 and older led to significant reductions in both emergency department visits and hospital admissions resulting from ORV injuries in the following three years according to a study by investigators at Massachusetts General Hospital, comparing injury rates before and after the law’s enactment.

Lt Carlow also mentioned that they will try to do an ORV education class.  Anyone in Massachusetts who is younger than 18 years old has to have this education to drive an ATV, dirt bike or side by side along with other age requirements. A class has not been held in the Berkshires in a while because only certified officers can teach it.  There are no specifics on it yet.

 

Lastly, she also mentioned an incident where MA EPOs assisted with a case that resulted in an arrest in Maine.  A guy from Attleboro, MA was paying people in Maine to trap wild snowshoe hares and he was taking them back to Attleboro for his own beagles to run.  The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) also got involved. He received a 1-year probation, a $10,000 fine, and a $1,800 restitution to Maine for the hares.

Migratory Bird Regulations

At that same BCLS meeting, Madden reported that The Massachusetts Fisheries and Wildlife Board voted to move MassWildlife’s proposed Migratory Bird regulations to public hearing. This annual process sets dates and limits for seasons on Migratory birds within a framework set by the USFWS.

The primary changes include the following:

  • Increase the Mallard Bag limit from 2 to 4
  • Increase the Berkshire Goose season from 30 days to 45 days and increase the bag from 1 to 3
  • Open the Berkshire duck season October 9 (Holiday)
  • Open the Central duck season October 14th (Saturday)

 

Here they come again

MassWildlife officials are reminding the public that March is the month when hungry bears emerge from their winter dens and seek out food. Natural foods such as acorns and other nuts are usually available on the ground, but last year’s fall hard mast crop was meager. Bears will often ignore seasonally available natural foods including skunk cabbage in favor of an easy meal at a backyard bird feeder. Other species including wild turkeys and coyotes may also frequent bird feeders leading to a variety of nuisance issues.

To avoid these problems, MassWildlife asks property owners to be proactive by removing bird feeders and other potential food sources including garbage or open compost. If you enjoy watching birds in your yard, MassWildlife suggests adding a water feature, growing native plants, shrubs, and trees to attract birds. Individuals should also secure bee hives, chickens, and livestock. Properly maintained electric fencing is the only way to protect chickens or bee hives from bears. Taking these actions may prevent the unnatural feeding of bears and other kinds of neighborhood wildlife.

There are at least 4,500 black bears in Massachusetts and their range is expanding eastward. Act by educating yourself and your neighbors about proactive measures to avoid conflicts with bears. For more information about black bears in Massachusetts, visit mass.gov/bears.

 

Gala Event

On April 1, the Lee Sportsmen’s Association/Ducks Unlimited (LSA/DU) 7th Annual Youth Sports Gala will take place at the Country Club in Pittsfield.  There will be raffles, live and silent auctions.  Doors open at 4:00 pm, dinner served at 6:00 pm.  Tickets cost $100 per person and can be purchased at leesportsmen.com or mail to Lee Sportsmen’s Association, PO Box 175, Lee, MA 01238.

Keeping with the LSA, Turkey Shoots will take place every Sunday through March 26, from 1:00 pm to 4:00pm.  Prizes include: NY Strip steaks, turkeys, pork loins, and spiral hams.  Cost: $3/shot-meat, $3/shot money shoot.  Lunch available for purchase.  Contact President Doug Frank at (413) 822-6490 with any questions.

Pistol License Course

On Saturday, March 25, Pete’s Gun Shop is hosting the MA Pistol License Course which qualifies you to apply for a MA LTC or FID, plus pistol licenses issued by AZ, CT, FL, ME, NH, PA, etc. The course includes firearm laws, safe gun handling, operation, maintenance, shooting fundamentals, etc. Live fire is also included, and is required by CT, FL and several MA municipalities. You will receive new wrap-around shooting glasses and folding muff type hearing protection that are yours to keep.

This will be a one day all inclusive, live fire class at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club. The class starts at 9:00 am. They spend time at the range and you get to shoot. You are also given an NRA Basic Pistol Safety textbook which is included in the class cost of $160.00.

 

You also get a $10 gift certificate to Pete’s Gun Shop in appreciation for taking the course. You are asked to pre-register by calling or stopping in at Pete’s Gun Shop at 413-743-0780, as space is limited. This live fire course fills up very quickly so call or stop in early to pre-register.

 

Prepayment is required at the time of registration. They do accept credit cards in person at the shop or by phone.

More 2022 deer harvest information

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More information has become available regarding the 2022 deer harvest.  As readers may recall, some 15,853 deer were harvested statewide last year.  The breakdown by harvest sex:  9,076 were adult bucks, 5,516 were does and 1,261 were buck fawns.

The following is the breakdown by Wildlife Management Zones and by seasons.  I am listing only the figures for the area west of the Connecticut River (WMZs 1 through 4), our area.

Zone 1: 4 deer were taken by paraplegics or youth (P/Y), 110 by archery, 139 by shotgun and 119 by primitive arms for a total of 372.

Zone 2:  13 taken by P/Y, 193 by archery, 234 by shotgun and 160 by primitive arms for a total of 600.

Zone 3:  5 taken by P/Y, 168 by archery, 283 by shotgun and 197 by primitive arms for a total of 653,

Zone 4N:  14 taken by P/Y, 210 by archery, 286 by shotgun and 148 by primitive arms for a total of 658.

Zone 4S: 8 taken by P/Y, 158 by archery, 140 by shotgun and 79 by primitive arms for a total of 385.

Just to give you an indication of how large the deer herd is in the eastern part of the state, Zone 9 yielded 1,414 deer, Zone 10 yielded 2,793 and Zone 11 yielded 4,259.

2022 wild turkey harvest

Based upon information listed on the MassWildlife web site, some 3,067 turkeys were harvested statewide last year, 2,837 in the spring hunt and 230 in the fall hunt.

The spring totals were as follows:  2,240 adult males, 508 jakes, and 10 bearded hens.  (Hunting the normal hens is prohibited in the spring hunt).  Those numbers were based upon the spring estimated harvest which was estimated to be 2,758 at the time. When final figures came in, the count was subsequently jacked up to 2,837. Some 365 of them were estimated to be from the Berkshires.

The harvest was nearly identical to the 10-year average of spring turkey harvest.

Young hunters harvested some 76 turkeys (49 adult males, 26 jakes, 1 bearded hen) statewide on the Youth Turkey Hunt Day.

Sex breakdowns were not available for the fall harvest nor how many were taken in the Berkshires.  Of the total 230 statewide fall harvest, 118 were toms and 112 were hens.

A talk on Mustelids

On Wednesday, March 8 at 6:00 pm local MassWildlife biologist Nathan Buckhout will make a presentation on mustelids, otherwise known as the weasel family—and go over some common characteristics of the diverse group.

river otter photo provided by MassWildlife

The talk will be at the March Berkshire Green Drinks gathering at the Shire Breu-Hous inside The Stationery Factory, 63 Flansburg Ave, Dalton, MA, and online via Zoom.

 

Mustelids are a family of carnivorous mammals, which include weasels, minks, otters, fishers, martens, and wolverines, among others. They’re an incredibly diverse family that comprises a vast number of individual species. Nathan will briefly discuss each species presently in Massachusetts, as well as species that have disappeared from the region. He will also discuss some common misconceptions and human-mustelid-related issues that commonly occur.

 

Additionally, Nathan is an expert on bears and enjoys discussing all types of wildlife.  He welcomes all questions about any wildlife during the Q&A session.

The in-person gathering begins at 5:00 pm at Shire Breu-Hous. The presentation will take place upstairs in a venue space of The Stationery Factory at 6:00 pm. RSVP to the in-person event at https://March-2023-Berks-Green-Drinks.eventbrite.com

Pre-registration is required to attend the virtual presentation. Register at https://tinyurl.com/March-2023-Berks-Green-Drinks

Berkshire Green Drinks (formerly Pittsfield Green Drinks) is an informal gathering on the second Wednesday of the month. A guest speaker talks for about 30 minutes beginning at 6:00 pm, and the presentation is followed by a discussion and Q&A. These nights are free and open to everyone with any environmental interest. The drinks aren’t green but the conversations are. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to join and bring along questions

First time out ice fishing

I don’t think anyone forgets the first time they went ice fishing. Five-year old Cameron and three-year old Colin Phillips of Groveland, MA surely won’t forget their first ice fishing experience.  They were out ice fishing on Onota Lake last Sunday with their mom and dad Nicole and Shaun Phillips and their grandparents Elaine and retired Pittsfield Deputy Fire Chief Keith Phillips. Shaun grew up in Pittsfield and fishing on Onota Lake but now resides in Groveland. Elaine and Keith Phillips still reside in Pittsfield.

Fishing on about 8 inches of ice, Cameron hauled in a 3 lbs. 10 oz smallmouth bass.  According to Shaun, Cameron pulled it in himself, his first time catching one while ice fishing. It will earn him a youth bronze pin from the state, and if no one catches a larger one this year, he may get a gold pin.

Cameron and Colin Phillips picture provided by family

They kept the bass this time and plan to have it mounted so Cameron has one on the wall next to his dad’s bass, which he caught when he was about the same age as Cameron.  Shaun says it kept him fishing throughout his life

Teaching Shaun and now Cameron was their grandfather Keith who was present to witness both catches.  I’d say he did a good job of teaching, don’t you think?

Some small game hunting ends next week

Tuesday marks the end of the cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare, squirrel and fox hunting seasons until this fall.  Oil up your guns and safely lock them away in the gun cabinet. Remember to lock your ammo in a separate location. The next time hunters will probably be picking up their shotguns again is in April, when the Spring Wild Turkey hunting season opens on April 24.

Let’s help those that are endangered

Is pulling junk out of our rivers not your forte?  Are you too busy to help eradicate the invasive hardy kiwi plant? Feeling guilty about not doing more to protect our environment and the critters that inhabit it, especially the endangered ones?

Well, one possible way to alleviate the guilt is to support the endangered at tax time. By adding a donation to line 33A on your State income taxes, you can help Massachusetts endangered animals and plants thrive.

 

According to MassWildlife, more than 430 plants and animals are listed under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act. These rare species play an important role in keeping the Commonwealth’s natural communities thriving. You can make a difference by supporting endangered species conservation while filing your taxes this year. Remember, look for Line 33A on your state tax form and write in any amount. Your meaningful donation will go to the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Fund which is dedicated specifically to the conservation of rare species in the Commonwealth.

 

Good time to tie some flies

 

With ice fishing almost over, the hunting seasons closed, little or no snow for snowshoeing, too early to start scouting for wild turkeys, what are the outdoors folks going to do now?  Go shopping?  Nope, you don’t want to hang around a mall all day. I don’t know about you, but my legs get more tired there than traipsing through the woods all day or climbing a mountain.

 

If you are a fly fisherman, you have no problem.  This time of year is traditionally the time to sit down at the fly tier’s desk and start winding the thread, furs, feathers, tinsel, etc. onto the hooks.  For many, it’s the only time of the year they have to do this.  They will probably restock the reliable, time-tested old flies like the Woolie Bugger, the Hendrickson, the Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear, etc., that they lost during last year’s season, either in fish, snags or branches.  Or maybe they will tie up variations of those trusted old flies by changing the color, size, etc., just to see how they’ll work in the upcoming fishing season.

 

By the time that they are done fly tying, it will be springtime with our lakes and streams full of hungry trout ready to gobble them up………..or totally reject them.

2022 Berkshire County League of Sportsmen Award winners are announced

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At the February 2 meeting of the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) four area outdoor sportspeople/conservationists were selected to receive prestigious awards. The awards will be presented at the Annual Silvio O. Conte Memorial Dinner on Saturday, April 22 at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club.  (More information to come in a later column, such as time and ticket price).

The winners are as follows:

Stephen Sears of Dalton was selected to receive the Sportsman of the Year Award. He is the current Chairman of the MA Fish & Wildlife Board.  He has done an excellent job representing his western Massachusetts constituents and those across the state.  Fellow members on the Board, the Department of Fish & Game and the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife respect his opinions and have appointed him to serve on several very important subcommittees of the Board.

He is knowledgeable in the field of conservation and proper management of our natural resources. He enjoys the outdoors not only as a hunter and fisherman, but also as a hiker, bird watcher, nature photographer, mountain biker, skier, and more.   His lifelong love of all aspects of the outdoors comes through very clearly and he is a staunch supporter of many conservation measures.

In the past 25 years he has taken the lead role in protecting multiple significant land parcels in Berkshire County through conservation restrictions with both Mass Wildlife and Mass DCR ensuring that these lands are forever available to all of us.

His current and past board positions with the Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation, Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area, the Center for Eco Technology “CET”, Grow Dalton, The Mount Greylock Ski Club and the Local Committee such as Notchview Reservation and The Trustees of Reservation makes him a very important member of the Fish & Wildlife Board.

The late Fred Moran of Adams was selected to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award posthumously.   Fred was as an avid fly fisherman who ran Points North Outfitters in Adams.  For two decades Fred and his wife Marilyn taught hundreds how to fly fish, not only local anglers but quite a few from the Pioneer Valley area.  They guided hundreds more on the Deerfield River.  Fred was known for collecting antique (bamboo) fishing rods and reels and the building and restoration of fly-fishing rods. He later worked at the Orvis fly rod factory in Manchester, VT. He was a close friend of the legendary local bamboo rod builder, Francis Digger” Degere and became his apprentice.

Fred was an esteemed member of the Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited where he and Digger put on rod building demonstrations.  Fred and Marilyn were recipients of TU’s Crooked Staff Award, the highest honor that the chapter bestows.  He was also a director of the Hoosic River Watershed Association.

Joel Miraglia of Ashfield was selected to receive the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award.   A long-time member of the Ashfield Rod & Gun Club (ARGC), he has served as VP, a Hunter Education instructor for more than 8 years.  In the club’s winter and spring fishing derbies he coordinated sponsors, provided prizes, arranged stocking of fish, coordinated the Ashfield Lake House and Sanderson Academy, coordinated with landowners and then afterwards was its Master of Ceremonies.  The Club Scholarship Program is largely funded by his efforts raffling a kayak each year – selling tickets at the Club’s booths at the Greenfield Fair, Cummington Fair and also tickets at the Ashfield Festival where the club sells vegetarian chili.  The program has provided many scholarships to graduates of Mohawk School in the field of natural resources.

For many years he has run the Club’s pheasant program which included coordinating with the State in young bird delivery, preparing tents, coordinating food services, coordinating schedule for the care and breeding of the birds, coordinating the landowners who let them use their properties, scheduling the stocking and more.  Joe was awarded the Russell S Williams Outstanding Service Award.

Eric Dupont of Lee was selected to receive the John Zuber Award for all that he does for the youth programs at the Lee Sportsmen’s Association (LSA).  He is an NRA Level 1 Pistol Coach and a Certified Archery Coach.  He has grown the .22 Youth Pistol Program from 12 youths to 32. He also has grown the Air Pistol Team.  Largely due to his efforts, the winter’s archery program has grown from 63 to 95 youths.

Eric also serves on the LSA Board of Directors and is the Pistol Chairman.

Ashfield Rod & Gun Club Ice Fishing Derby

Depending on ice conditions, the derby is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 26, from 8:00 am to 12 noon on Ashfield Lake, Buckland Road (just off Route 112). Registration will take place at the Ashfield Lake House Beach. You can park at either the Ashfield Lake House or the Town Beach. Bring your own equipment. Some holes in the ice will be drilled. A warming fire and refreshments will be provided. Awards will take place at 12:00 noon.

Be sure to check the ice thickness prior to going.  Contact ARGC president Jack Shea at 413 522 6150 if you have any questions.

Fly Tying

The Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited will sponsor a fly-tying event at Wild Soul River, 248 Cole Ave, in Williamstown on Saturday, February 25 at 3:00 pm.  People of all skill levels are welcome. Bring your vise and tools, or use theirs.  Taconic TU President Justin Adkins will share his favorite super simple Sakasa Kebari wet fly pattern. Mostly used for tenkara fishing, this pattern is great with any gear on our small streams here in Western Mass.

Berkshire Archery Championship

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club is sponsoring a 300 Round Indoor Archery Tournament Berkshire Championship on February 25 and 26.  Classes of competition are:  Adults – Compound Freestyle Men, Compound Freestyle Women, Bow Hunter men (release and fingers combined), Bow Hunter women (release and fingers combined) and Traditional/Longbow or Recurve.  Youth: 12 to 16 years, Cub 11 years of age and under.  A single competitive round will be shot consisting of 5 arrows each end, 12 ends, 60 arrows, distance of 20 yards.  Archers may choose either the single or 5 spot face targets.

Participants can choose any one of three shooting times:  Saturday February 25 at 6:00 pm, Sunday February 26, 9:00 am or 1:00 pm, or Youth shoot 11:00 am Sunday.

To register, directions or questions, contact John Mange (518)794-7368 or John Davis at (413)446-9812.

Cheshire FD Ice Fishing Derby results

On Sunday, February 12, some 379 registered anglers in Cheshire headed out onto the frozen lake for the 6th annual ice fishing derby to benefit the Cheshire Fire Department.  A HUGE thank you went out to everyone who came out and spent the day on Cheshire Lake to support the Cheshire Fire Department.   They raised over $6,200 for the Department.

 

According to the Department’s Facebook page, the derby brought in “a ton of great bass, a few nice pickerel, and one pike snuck onto the leaderboard in the last hour.”

 

They had lots of great prizes to give away that day, all thanks to their very generous sponsors who make the derby grow each year.

 

Derby winners were:

Adult:

Andrew Heath, 6lb 3oz, 22” Bass

Bruce Poirot, 5lb 9oz, 29” Pike

Edgar Agundis, 4lb 9oz, 20” Bass

 

Youth:

Justin Proper Jr. 3lb 7oz, 23 1/2” Pickerel

Oliver Lavalley, 3lb 5oz, 18 1/2” Bass

Nate Mallet, 2lb 14oz, 23” Pickerel

 

Congratulations to the winners.  Sorry I was unable to get any pictures of the winners and their winning fish.

 

Ice fishing derby cancelled

 

The Cheshire Rod & Gun Club/Adams Outdoor for Youth Ice fishing derby scheduled for this Sunday has been canceled because of lack of ice.  They do not feel safe getting people on and off the lake. All prizes and donations will be held over untill next year.

 

That probably means MassWildlife’s Learn to Ice Fish event will be cancelled, too.

 

A reminder from Lt. Tara Carlow, MA Environmental Police

 

At the last BCLS meeting, Lt Carlow reminded the delegates that any off-highway vehicle (snowmobile, ATV, dirt bike, side-by-sides) can only operate either with landowners written permission OR on property with trails designated for their use and in season, such as Pittsfield State Forest.

2022 MA Angler of the Year and gold pin award winners announced

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Since 1963, MassWildlife’s Freshwater Sportfishing Awards Program has recognized anglers who catch exceptional freshwater fish across Massachusetts. The goal of the Freshwater Sportfishing Awards Program is to foster a joy for angling in the many aquatic habitats the state has to offer. From rivers and streams to lakes and ponds, Massachusetts offers opportunities to catch over 20 species of fish.

The Catch & Keep Angler of the Year Award is given to the person who weighs in the largest number of species that meet the minimum weight requirements for the previous calendar year.

According to figures announced by MassWildlife, the Adult Catch & Keep Angler of the Year was Matthew Power of Auburn. In addition to other bronze pin fish, he caught the gold pin yellow perch weighing 1 lb. 14 oz out of Demond Pond in Rutland.

There was a 3-way tie in the Youth Catch & Keep Angler of the Year.  Carter Flagg of Gill, and Logan Middlebrook and Gabriel Christman of Pittsfield. Carter caught the gold pin bullhead which weighed 2 lbs. 0 oz out of Plainfield Pond in Plainfield. He also caught a gold pin 11 lbs. 15 oz channel catfish out of the Connecticut River in Northfield.

Picture provided by Middlebrook family

Logan caught the gold pin brown trout weighing 3 lbs. 6 oz out of Onota Lake in Pittsfield.  Gabriel caught the gold pin 3 lbs. 5 oz rainbow trout out of Stockbridge Bowl in Stockbridge.  He also caught a gold pin white perch weighing 1 lb. 4 oz out of Pontoosuc Lake in Lanesborough.

Gabriel Christman holding gold pin rainbow.

The Catch & Release Angler of the Year Award is awarded to the person who submits the largest number of species that meet the minimum length requirements for the previous calendar year.

The Catch & Release Angler of the Year winner was Andrew Langley of Peabody. He caught a gold pin 24.75-inch shad out of the Merrimack River in Andover

Other gold pin fish that were caught out of Berkshire waters last year were:

In the Adult Catch & Keep Category – A 3 lbs. 5 oz brook trout was caught out of Goose Pond in Lee by Allan Armstrong of Lee.

In the Catch & Release category, two 44-inch northern pike were caught out of Onota Lake.  One was caught by Seth Davis of Oxbridge and one caught by Jake Burke of Pittsfield. Another gold pin fish caught out of Onota was a 23.25- inch white catfish which was caught by Jason Wingrove of Bernardston. (I never knew we had white catfish here in Berkshire waters).

Angler of the Year recipients and gold pin winners are honored each year at a MassWildlife awards event where they will get a gold pin and a plaque. The date and location TBA.

I have only listed the names of the gold pin winners. There is another pin awarded and that is the bronze pin.  If you submit a fish that meets the minimum weight or minimum length requirements for an eligible species, you’ll get a bronze pin from MassWildlife for that species Nearly 1,000 pins are awarded annually.

 

There were 4 new state records all in the Catch & Release Category: A 32-inch bowfin caught out of the Connecticut River in Northampton by Will Pelerin of Springfield, a 25-inch largemouth bass caught out of Forge Pond in Granby also caught by Will Pellerin, a 29.50-inch walleye caught out of the Connecticut River in Holyoke by Michael Taylor of South Hadley and an 18-inch white perch caught out of Wachusett Reservoir by John Ceccolini of Sutton.

Congratulations to all the 2022 winners!

Incidentally, Gabriel Christman comes from quite a fishing family.  His father was Angler of the Year Adult Catch and Keep Category in 2016, 2020 and 2021.  His sister Alice Christman was the 2019 Youth Catch and Keep Angler of the Year.

Tom Wren Ice Fishing Derby

 

The Tom Wren Memorial Ice Fishing Derby is scheduled to be held at Pontoosuc Lake February 18.  Check-in starts at 6:00 am. and the final weigh in at 3:00 pm. All cash brought in will be paid out in prizes. First second and third heaviest fish for the Adult and Children categories. Check in and weigh in will be held in the camper shanty set up at Narragansett Park in Lanesboro. Any questions click onto the Tom Wren Memorial Ice Fishing Derby Facebook page.

 

The Cheshire Rod & Gun Club & Adams Outdoorsmen for Youth Ice Fishing Derby

 

This derby will be held on Cheshire Lake on Sunday, February 19 from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM

(1st Lake (North Basin) and 2nd Lake).  Prizes will be awarded to:

Adults: 1st/2nd/3rd Heaviest Pike; 1st/2nd/3rd Heaviest Bass and 1st Heaviest Misc. Fish.

Kids: Top 5 heaviest fish.

 

Prizes include: 10” Eskimo Auger, Eskimo Shanty, Set of 5 Jack Trap Tip Ups, Eskimo Pistol Bit Auger, Jet Sleds, plus much more.

 

Tickets are $15 for adults and free for kids with an adult ticket. They are available at Cheshire Sporting Goods, Dave’s Sporting Goods, Onota Boat Livery, Martin Farrell’s Bait or on the day of the derby from 7:00 am to 10:00 am at the boat ramps.

 

Awards will be presented at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club at 5 PM.

 

Learn to Ice Fish and Fishing Derby 

MassWildlife invites you to learn to ice fish and have some fun. On February 19, meet up at Farnham’s Causeway on Cheshire Lake, drop in any time between sunrise to 4:00 pm. Gear and bait will be provided. This event is co-sponsored by the Cheshire Rod and Gun Club and the Adams Outdoorsman for Youth. This is a fishing derby with prizes and a learn to fish event. It is open to the public, no registration required.

Incidentally, in last week’s column where I mentioned the results of the Lanesboro Fire Department’s ice fishing derby, I forgot to mention that the derby took place on Pontoosuc Lake.

Crazy weather this year with abnormally warm temperatures.  I haven’t even been out ice fishing once and its beginning to look like I may not get out at all this season.  Not unless we get a lengthy cold snap.  What little ice there is will surely get thinner.  If you plan to participate in one of the ice fishing derbies or events, you might want to keep an eye on the sponsor’s web pages for updates, or call them directly.

 

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Banquet

 

The Bay State Chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation will be holding a banquet on February 18 at 5:00 pm at the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club, 24 West Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge.  There are a dozen entrance fee scenarios, but a single ticket costs $90, or a couple ticket costs $145.00.  There will be great food and chances to win top notch firearms, premium trips, and exclusive gear. The live auction special feature is a 2024 Wyoming Backcountry Pack trip for two. Seats and tickets are limited and you can reserve your tickets by registering online (www.rmef.org/Masssachusetts) or by calling Gary Johnston at (413)441-0361.

MassWildlife winter activities

Ever wonder what DFW staff does during the winter?  Well, according to DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden some of their time is spent on apple tree pruning. Western District staff are continuing efforts to restore overgrown apple orchards this winter. They have pruned and released trees at Peru and Fox Den Wildlife Management Areas (WMA). Productive apple trees provide important soft mast for a variety of game and non-game species.

They are also spending time on nesting boxes.  District staff have been servicing nesting boxes for wood duck, kestrel, and bluebirds. The inconsistent ice has made duck boxes a challenge, but lack of snow has allowed them to attend their other boxes earlier than usual.

2022 Prescribed Fire Program Summary

DFW Western District kicked off a prescribed fire program for the first time in 2022. Efforts were focused on fields and calcareous fens.  They conducted burns at Stafford Hill WMA in Cheshire, Fairfield Brook WMA in Richmond and Karner Brook WMA in Egremont and Mount Washington. The burns were the first in Berkshire County for MassWildlife’s modern burn program. They have additional sites planned for 2023.

2022 deer harvest set a record

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In his February report to the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen, DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden reported that the preliminary statewide deer harvest for 2022 was a record with  15,853 deer. “That harvest highlights growing deer abundance statewide and increased access to permits, with the previous 3-year average of 14,007.” he said.

The breakdown of the harvest by season is as follows:

  • Youth Deer Hunt Day: 114
  • Paraplegic Hunt Days: 7
  • Archery Season: 6,543
  • Shotgun Season: 5,823
  • Primitive Firearms Season: 3,366

He noted that the harvest is well within the expected range allowed under strict regulations set by MassWildlife.

“The statewide deer population has been increasing for several decades,” said MassWildlife Deer and Moose Project Leader Martin Feehan. “Hunting is a critical tool for balancing deer populations with forest health while feeding tens of thousands of families across Massachusetts every year. It really is a win-win for both people and wildlife conservation.”

Deer densities vary widely from an ideal range of about 12–18 deer per square mile in most of central and western Massachusetts to more than 30–50 deer per square mile in areas of eastern Massachusetts and on the islands. Without population management through regulated hunting, deer become overabundant, increasing risks to public safety from vehicle collisions and habitat damage. When there are too many deer, they over-browse tree saplings and seedlings, which degrades forest health and negatively impacts many other wildlife species.

 

Basic hunting education is mandatory for all hunters.

 

There are different rules for minors based on their age. No person under the age of 12 may hunt in Massachusetts.

Youth ages 12-14

Youth ages 12-14 do not need a license or stamps or firearms license to hunt. They may hunt only when accompanied by a licensed adult hunter 18 or older. Only one minor per adult is permitted. The adult and minor share one firearm/bow and a single bag limit along with any applicable permits/tags.

The adult must have:

  • A valid Massachusetts hunting or sporting license
  • Any required state or federal stamps or permits
  • Firearms license if a firearm is being used
  • All other hunting laws apply.

 

 Youth Ages 15–17

Youth ages 15-17 must have a minor hunting license along with any required stamps and permits.

  • Minors without a Basic Hunter Education certificate must be accompanied by a person 18 years of age or older.
  • Minors with a Basic Hunter Education certificate may legally hunt without adult supervision and must carry their Basic Hunter Education certificate while hunting.
  • Minors hunting with a shotgun or rifle must follow Massachusetts Firearms license laws and must obtain a Firearms Identification Card (FID).
  • All other hunting laws apply.

Basic hunter education is required even for adult hunters.

  • Blended: Students complete the online MA hunter study guide before attending one in-person Field Day.
  • In-person (traditional): Students attend an entirely in-person, instructor led course that is offered over multiple days.  All courses are free of charge and open to the public.

 

Such a class will be held at the Cheshire Rod and Gun Club on March 13, 17, 20, 22, 27 and 31 from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. If interested, you should click onto the MassWildlife website education and call the number listed to sign up.

 

Ice Fishing derbies

The Great Barrington Fish & Game Club will be holding an ice fishing derby on Saturday, February 11 from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm at Mercer’s Pond in Great Barrington.  The entry fee is $15 for adults and children 12 and under $5. There will be a spaghetti and meatball dinner following the derby.  There will be prizes for every child.  The grand door prize for adults will be an ice auger, for children a bicycle. Other prizes include:  largest fish (adult and child), heaviest fish overall plus many raffle prizes. Tickets must be pruchased at the clubhouse prior to derby, no exceptions.

The Cheshire Fire Department’s Sixth Annual Ice Fishing Derby will be held on Sunday, February 12 on Cheshire Lake.  There will be prizes for the three largest fish of any species for both adult and youth age groups. An additional prize for the largest bass of the day will be awarded as well as the Bill Lewis Biggest Bass Award.

Registration will take place from 6:00 am until noon on both boat ramps. It will run from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm on both the north and south basins. Registration Fee: $15.00 for adults, youths 12 and under free with an adult. Registration fee automatically enters you in for thousands of dollars worth of raffles to be drawn throughout the day.  A 50/50 raffle will also be available.  All fish must be weighed in by 4:00 pm.

All proceeds from this derby go directly to benefit the Cheshire Volunteer Fire Department for things like training, equipment, vehicle maintenance, etc. Call or text with any questions. 413-281-5020.

 

Results of Ice fishing Derby

 

The winners of the Lanesboro Fire Association Ice Fishing Derby which was held on Saturday, January 28 on Pontoosuc Lake are as follows:

Pike: 1st Place John O’Neil 8 lbs 2 oz, 2nd Jon Jewell 7 lbs 6 oz, 3rd  Brian King 6 lbs 6 oz.  Bass: 1st Place Kristen Strum 3 lbs 5 oz, 2nd Dan Dufur 3 lbs 4 oz, 3rd Brian Littlefoot 2 lbs 8oz.  Pickerel: 1st Place Dan Starkey 2 lbs 15 oz,

 

Some 80 or so ice fishermen entered the Coles Memorial Ice Fishing Derby last Sunday on Goose Pond. John Kelley caught the largest fish of the day, a 2 lb 5 oz brown trout which measured 19 ½ inches long.

 

Other Adult Category winners were:  Bass: Trevor Goodermott took 1st place with a 1 lb 15 oz bass.  James Trumps came in second with a bass weighing 14 oz.  Pickerel:  Shamus Daley took 1st place with a 1 lb 10 oz fish.  J Petersoli came in second with a 1 lb 7 oz fish, Trout:  John Kelley took that 2 lb 5 oz brown trout.  2nd place went to Josh Brown with a 1 lb 8 oz 16-inch rainbow trout.  Perch: Tyler Swicker took first place with a 11 oz yellow perch.  Josh Brown took second place with a 10 oz perch.

Picture taken by
Gene Chague

 

In the Kid’s Category, Carson and Emmit Mechare tied for 1st place by each catching a 14 oz rainbow trout. Young Trenton Santolin caught the only pickerel in this category which was a 13 oz pickerel.

 

The 39th Annual Springfield Sportsmen’s Show coming soon

 

The show takes place at the Eastern States Exposition (Big E) 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield, MA on February 24 through 26.   The show hours are Friday from noon to 8 pm, Saturday 9 am to 7 pm and Sunday 10 am to 5 pm.  Admission:  Adults – $15, kids 6 to 12 – $5 and under 6 free.

Billed as the largest pure hunting and fishing show in the Northeast, it is filled with hundreds of booths, seminars and action areas. The show is filled with an outdoorsman’s dream of fishing and hunting gear, outfitters, charter boats and adventure destinations, along with great deals on fishing boats, ATV’s and UTV’s. There will be great attractions and displays such as The Northeast Big Buck Club, Trout Pond, and more.

The Outdoor Sports Expo Group brings together just the right mix of hunting and fishing celebrities, industry experts, and entertainment features to produce a sporting and outdoor show that is educational, entertaining, and fun.

Each year, the show draws exhibitors from all over the Northeast who are eager to present their products and services to outdoor sporting enthusiasts. Returning and all new fishing tackle vendors will exhibit and sell fishing reels and rods, hard and soft plastic baits, fishing kayaks with accessories, boats of all types, etc.

State of the Hoosic River

On February 9, from 6:30 to 8:00 pm, the Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited will have at its general meeting Arianna Collins, Executive Director of the Hoosic River Watershed Association (HOORWA).  She will be speaking about the state of the Hoosic River and the work HOORWA is doing in water quality and temperature testing. The meeting will take place at the Trailhouse Kitchen and Bar, 896 State Rd, North Adams.

Fly Tying with Chris Samson

 

On February 7, Chris Samson of Berkshire Outfitters, 169 Grove St, Adams, MA, is hosting a fly-tying night at 6:30 pm.

Protecting our lovable, cuddly friends

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According to the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW), coyotes are “an opportunistic​ feeder” that is adaptable to many habitats, including suburban, urban and rural areas. Some town officials across the state are urging residents to be cautious with their pets this winter, as coyote mating season is officially underway and could last until March.

During this time, you are likely to see coyotes more frequently than normal, especially in wooded areas, in neighborhoods and backyards. They will utilize whatever food is naturally available, including small animals, birds, insects and fruits, as well as artificial sources such as garbage, pet food, birdseed, and compost.

In suburban areas they’ve been known to prey on unprotected pets, including small dogs and house cats.  They may view larger dogs as competition. It is not abnormal for coyotes to protect themselves if threatened.

Pet owners should keep their pets out of harm’s way.  Here are some suggestions:

  • Feed your pets indoors to avoid attracting wildlife
  • Cats should be kept inside, if possible, especially during low light hours such as early morning and early evening.
  • Dogs of all sizes should be kept on a leash and closely monitored when out in the yard.
  • Go outside with your dog. Before letting your dog out and while it is out there, check and even make noise to scare off any coyotes that may be lurking in the area.

 

For more helpful information on preventing conflicts with coyotes, click onto the MassWildlife web site https://www.mass.gov/prevent conflicts with coyotes.

Fly-tying event was a great event

“We had a great turnout tonight” wrote Fran Marzotto of Pittsfield.  He was writing about the fly- tying class which was held at Berkshire Outfitters in Adams last Tuesday evening.

photo taken by Fran Marzotto

Including instructors, the event was attended by 24 people. The attendees included women, men, and children. Their ages ranged from 8 years old to seniors and their skill levels ranged from beginners to intermediate to advanced tiers. They tied Wooly Buggers and Egg Patterns for trout and Crab Patterns for Striped Bass.

The above event was a Taconic Trout Unlimited affiliated event. But in addition to them, Instructor Chris Samson is planning on holding tying events at Berkshire Outfitters every two weeks on Tuesday evenings throughout the winter.  The next event on February 7 at 6:30 pm. Future TU affiliated events will be announced by Taconic President Justin Adkins at a later date.

The names of the instructors were Chris Samson (Store Manager), Fran Marzotto, Paul Gigliotti and Bob Levesque.

picture taken by Fran Marzotto

Steve Blazejewski is the owner of Berkshire Outfitters. As you can see in the pictures, it has a great array of flyfishing and fly-tying equipment.

 

 

 

Housatonic River in CT now designated as “Wild and Scenic”

 

For the many local flyfishermen who fish the Housatonic River in Connecticut, especially around Falls Village and Cornwall, there is a bit of good news.

 

The Housatonic River Commission recently announced federal designation of the Housatonic River as a Wild & Scenic River for the 41 miles of the Housatonic River from the Massachusetts border to the Boardman Bridge in New Milford. William Tingley, Chairman of the Housatonic River Commission, said ‘This federal Wild & Scenic designation of the Housatonic River will help to ensure the Commission’s ability to carry through its management plan to maintain the river’s unspoiled beauty and create solid accessibility to the many user groups who treasure the Housatonic River.”

 

“The Commission has worked diligently for many years to accomplish this important Wild & Scenic designation. This was a team effort, and there are many to thank for their support in making this designation happen. First and foremost, thank you to the residents and public officials of the seven towns represented on the Commission: Canaan (Falls Village), Cornwall, Kent, Salisbury, Sharon, New Milford, and North Canaan, and to the Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) for their dedicated support and advocacy for the river and this designation”.

 

“Additionally, thank you to state and federal elected officials, most particularly Senator Chris Murphy and Congresswoman Jahana Hayes, for making sure this designation was included in the recently passed Omnibus Bill in Washington, and to several key partners for their dedicated efforts in addition to the HVA, including the National Park Service, Northwest Hills Council of Governments, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, local area land trusts, and other interested organizations.”

 

This 41-mile section of the Housatonic River is now a member of the National Park Service’s Partnership Wild and Scenic Rivers Program, a federally funded consortium designed to protect and enhance exceptional rivers throughout the country. The Commission will also be entitled to receive federal funds to carry out its management plan for the Housatonic River, including the pressing need to improve and control public access to the river for recreation

 

What to do if you think you caught a state record fish

How many times have you gone ice fishing and thought that perhaps that day you might catch a state record pickerel or northern pike?  Why not?  State records have been caught out of Berkshire waters before.  Be prepared by reading the following advice from MassWildlife.

“If you think your trophy fish may have broken a state record, it needs to be weighed by a MassWildlife Fisheries Biologist. Email Steven.Mattocks@mass.gov to make an appointment to bring your fish into one of our office locations. The fish must be presented in its entirety (whole). In keeping with MassWildlife regulations prohibiting the transportation of live fish without a permit, any fish submitted for weighing must be dead.”

Good to know, now all we have to do is catch a state record.

Active Military & Veteran Waterfowl Hunt coming up

Two statewide Active Military & Veteran Waterfowl Hunt season dates (Oct. 8, 2022 and Feb. 4, 2023), are open for waterfowl hunting (ducks, coots, mergansers, and geese) by veterans and current members of the Armed Forces on active duty.  It includes members of the National Guard and Reserve on active duty (other than for training).

The term “veteran,” is defined, per section 101 of title 38, United States Code, as “a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable”. Proof of eligibility is required and must be carried on person while hunting. All regular season waterfowl regulations and bag limits apply.

Annual Pheasant Fundraising Turkey Shoot & Dinner

 

The Lee Sportsmen’s Association (LSA) invites you to its Annual Pheasant Fundraising Turkey Shoot & Dinner being held on Sunday, February 5. The Turkey Shoot runs from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Prizes include NY strip steaks, turkeys, pork loins, and spiral hams.  The dinner is from 5:00 pm to 7:00pm.  Cost is adults $20 and children 12 and under $10.  Contact Secretary John Polastri at (413) 822-8278 for any questions, concerns.

Every year, MassWildlife stocks an average of 40,000 pheasants on Wildlife Management Areas and other lands open to the public.  LSA helps raise and release the pheasants.  They are stocked for recreational hunting and are paid for by revenue from license fees; however, the cost of raising and releasing the pheasants is the responsibility of LSA, and the caretakers are all LSA volunteers. You are invited to come on out for a day of fun and delicious food, and help support a great cause to ensure our continued legacy of wildlife management and hunting heritage in the Berkshires.

Carla Rhodes:  From Comedy to Conservation

Wildlife conservation photographer Carla Rhodes will make a presentation at the February Berkshire Green Drinks gathering on Wednesday, February 8, at 6:00 PM in person at Barrington Brewery, 420 Stockbridge Rd, Great Barrington, and online via Zoom.

With work published in The New York Times, The Guardian, and more, Carla’s untraditional path to helping elevate wildlife through the art form of photography inspires people to chase their wildest dreams.

Join the Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT)  in person or online for the  Berkshire Green Drinks event to hear how Carla went from comedy to conservation and see some of the awe-inspiring moments she has captured through her photography.

The in-person gathering begins at 5:15 PM, and the presentation starts at 6:00 PM. RSVP for the in-person event at Feb2023-Berks-Green-Drinks.eventbrite.com.

Pre-registration is required to attend the virtual presentation. Register at tinyurl.com/Feb2023-Berks-Green-Drinks.

Time to review ice safety tips

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Well, with ice fishing season here or approaching, and with fishing derbies scheduled, it’s that time again to review information from MassWildlife regarding ice thickness.  A truck already went through the ice in Warwick, MA.  Fortunately, no one was injured.

I recommend you read the great article on Page A4 of the January 13, 2023 Berkshire Eagle dealing with ice safety. Or you could click onto MassWildlife’s website https://www.mass.gov/news/stay-safe-on-the-ice-this-winter where there is important safety information listed.  There is no need for me to reprint all of that information here.

But I would like to point out a couple of items:

One is the suggestion by MassWildlife that 4 inches of ice may be safe for ice fishing or other activities on foot.  But they clearly stipulate that it is safe only on new clear/blue ice on lakes or ponds.  Keep an eye on the ice especially this year because of the freeze/thaw days this winter.  The ice may be cloudy and not as thick and hard as one thinks.

Another important suggestion is to always keep pets leashed while walking on or near ice. Well- meaning pet owners can easily become victims themselves when trying to assist their pets.

 

Obviously, rabbit hunters don’t keep their dogs on a leash for they work the bushes trying to kick up some bunnies and unfortunately, they’re apt to run onto dangerous ice pursuing them.

 

That happened to me a few years back while my beagle Jacques and I were hunting an area near the Housatonic River in Pittsfield.  He was barking away running a bunny out of my sight when I heard ice breaking in the area where he was.  I rushed over to find him and there he was in a frozen flooded area near the river some thirty feet away.  Only his head was sticking out of the ice and he was looking at me for help.  I had to try to save him, so I gingerly started walking out to try to reach him.  To my delight, the water under the ice had receded and there was dry ground under that ice.  When I reached Jacques, he was standing on dry ground under the ice, too.  We really lucked out that day.

 

After that I never hunted him in the late fall or winter where there were ponds or rivers. Actually, I didn’t have to worry, for he never forgot that incident and never went on ice again, unless he went ice fishing with me.  He loved to play Huskie and help me drag my ice fishing sled out onto the lakes.  I brought a 30-foot lead so that he wouldn’t wander away and get into trouble near thin ice or try to bum a hot dog from other nearby ice fishermen.

 

Upcoming ice fishing derbies 

The Lanesborough Volunteer Fireman’s Association will be sponsoring an ice fishing derby on Saturday, January 28 on Pontoosuc Lake.  It will run from 6:000 am until 2:00 pm.  Registration will be conducted behind the park on Narragansett Avenue.  There will be a $15 entry fee for adults with kids 12 and under free.  Each entry fee includes a chance at the door prize (Weber Grill).

The Coles Memorial Hard Water Fishing Derby is scheduled to take place on Goose Pond on Sunday, January 29 from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Dresser Hull, Terrace Hair Studio or on the ice near the boat ramp and must be purchased by 10:00 am in order to fish. Tickets cost $10.00 for adults and free for kids 12 and under.  There will be cash prizes for adults.  All proceeds will go towards a memorial donation to the boat ramp in the late Evan Colbert’s name.

Check to make sure there are no changes due to ice conditions,

 

Learn to ice fish with MassWildlife

Learn how to set up your rod, how to use a tip-up and how to bait your hook. Events are free, family friendly, and open to all skill levels. No fishing license or registration is required. Bring your own fishing equipment or borrow theirs. Limited gear and bait will be provided. Note: Events will be canceled if ice is less than 6 inches thick or if there is heavy rain or snow.

Such a class will be held on Cheshire Lake on February 19 from sunrise to 4:00 pm.  Meet up and weigh in at Farnham’s Causeway.  It is held in cooperation with the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club and the Adams Outdoorsmen for Youth.

There are also some nice ice fishing tutorial videos on the MassWildlife website.

Nice crappie hauled through the ice

Last Tuesday, January 17, Javius Johnson of Ashfield, MA caught a nice crappie out of Ashfield Lake. It weighed 1 lb 12 oz, was 16 inches long and had a girth of 11 ¾ inches He caught it on a shiner.  I happened to be at the Onota Boat Livery in Pittsfield when Javius weighed it in. It was a beauty.

Incidentally, Javius said that there were approximately 8 inches of ice on Ashfield Lake that day.

To be eligible for a bronze pin from the DFW Freshwater Sportfishing Awards Program Catch and Keep Category, the crappie had to weigh at least 1 lb 8 oz.  If no one catches a larger crappie, Javius will receive a gold pin and be recognized at the awards ceremony later on this year (provided Covid doesn’t rear its ugly head again).  In that case the pin and certificate will be mailed to him.  Last year’s gold pin winning crappie weighed 2 lbs 13 oz and it came out of Quabbin Reservoir.

2022 Deer Harvest figures still not yet released

In his January report to the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS), MA DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden said that early reports indicate that 2022 was an excellent year for Massachusetts deer hunters. Final tabulations are still being calculated but all Western District zones saw an increase over 2021. Full statewide numbers should be available soon.

Preliminary Bear Harvest

 

Andrew Madden also reported that a total of 223 black bears were taken during the combined 2022 bear hunting seasons. This was the second highest in the last 5 years and the 6th highest overall. Some 79 bears were taken in Berkshire County.

 

Environmental Police Comments

At the above-mentioned BCLS meeting, Lt. Cara Carlow of the Massachusetts Environmental Police discussed the recent hunting fatality in Chesterfield.  She offered this advice:

  • If you have an older person with a smart phone, please show him//her how to use it, how to find where the coordinates are and how to send them.
  • That deceased hunter only brought 5 shotgun rounds with him and blasted them all off before law enforcement even got to the location. They had nothing to help triangulate where the lost hunter was. On top of that, he kept moving.
  • If you like to hunt alone, tell a friend where you will be and that you will text them later when you come out of the woods.
  • Plan for the worst weather, make sure your phone is charged before you go out. If you know the battery is dying, put it on airplane mode. Carry a portable phone recharger.

 

She had one other tidbit of useful information – Make sure you have a plan if you shoot a deer or bear.  Can you drag it out? If not, have some friends on standby. Also, please know that you are not allowed to use an ATV to drag your bear out of a Wildlife Management Area unless MassWildlife gives you permission to do that.

Definitely some useful advice from which we all can learn.

Monies awarded for recreational access projects in MA

$56,000 has been awarded in Massachusetts state grant funds to the Towns of Barnstable and Cohasset, and the City of Newburyport for saltwater fishing access projects popular with the recreational fishing community.

The access funds, which were awarded by the Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Marine Fisheries are provided through the collection of revenue from the sale of saltwater fishing permits, a portion of which fund construction and improvements to public access facilities in Massachusetts coastal communities.

 

It’s good to know that our salt water permit fees are being put to good use.

Hunters Share the Harvest Program” is a success.  Expansion planned for next year.  

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In my December 10, 2022 column, I did an article on MassWildlife’s Hunters Share the Harvest Program, a new program which provides an opportunity for hunters to donate and share wild game meat like venison with Massachusetts residents in need.

Free range, organic venison is a lean, healthy protein with a low carbon footprint that already feeds thousands of licensed hunters and their families across Massachusetts each year and now successful hunters can help combat hunger and food insecurity in their communities by donating venison.

In last year’s deer hunting seasons, there was only one approved meat processor that accepted whole-deer donations.  The packaged venison was to be distributed to those in need through the Massachusetts Military Support Foundation’s Food 4 Vets program.

Meat processors, food pantries, hunger relief agencies, or other organizations who wanted to participate in MassWildlife’s Hunters Share the Harvest program in the future could contact Martin Feehan, MassWildlife’s Deer and Moose Project Leader, at martin.feehan@mass.gov.

Well, at last week’s Berkshire County League of Sportsmen’s (BCLS) meeting, DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden reported that MassWildlife had a very successful launch of the Share the Harvest Program. “With support from the Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation and through the generosity of hunters, more than 700lbs of venison were distributed.” said Madden.

MassWildlife will be expanding the program in 2023 to reach wider distribution and provide meals for more people throughout the state.

BioMap is available.

BioMap, a newly-updated online tool that identifies critical land and waterways throughout the Commonwealth in need of conservation is now available. MassWildlife and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) worked to develop the tool to help state and local governments, land trusts, non-government organizations, and other conservation partners strategically plan projects to conserve wildlife and their habitats.

The latest version of BioMap combines more than 40 years of rigorously documented rare species and natural community records from MassWildlife with cutting-edge climate resilience data from TNC and spatial data identifying intact fish and wildlife communities, habitats, and ecosystems that are the focus of the Massachusetts State Wildlife Action Plan.

You are invited to join Assistant Director of MassWildlife’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program Eve Schluter and TNC Ecologist Andy Finton for a demonstration of the new BioMap webinar on January 18 at 7:00 p.m. on Zoom. Click onto https://www.mass.gov/news/new-release-of-biomap to register for the webinar.

Email natural.heritage@mass.gov to request BioMap technical support or to request notification of future trainings.

 “Tracking Wildlife: Stories from the More-Than-Human World”

Skilled wildlife tracker and educator Dan Gardoqui is visiting the Berkshires to present a talk: “Tracking Wildlife: Stories from the More-Than-Human World” at Berkshire Community College’s Robert Boland Theater in Pittsfield on Friday, January 20 at 6:00 PM. This event is sponsored by Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT), Greenagers, Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC), Housatonic Heritage, Richmond Pond Association, and Berkshire Community College. It is free and open to the public, with a $10 suggested donation.

Dan Gardoqui will give a presentation on tracking wildlife. He’ll lead attendees to make deeper connections with the natural world and the wildlife that surrounds us by sharing thrilling stories and photos from his tracking experiences and discussing ways to actively participate in the more-than-human world by applying wildlife tracking skills. A Q & A session will follow the talk.

The following day, Saturday, January 21, Dan will lead two back-to-back trackings (8:30 am to 11:30 am and 12:30pm to 3:30pm at the Eugene D Moran Wildlife Management Area on the border of Cheshire and Windsor, MA. Each workshop costs $50 and has a limited space of 10 participants Email team@thebeatnews.org with any questions.

For over 30 years, Dan Gardoqui has been a student, teacher, observer, and active participant in the more-than-human world. A Certified Wildlife Tracker since 2006, he has trained hundreds in the science and art of tracking. Dan is also a bird language expert and bird mimic – known for his YouTube series “Learn a Bird.” Some of his contributions include the books “Mammal Tracks & Sign: A Guide to North American Species” (Elbroch & MacFarland) and “What the Robin Knows: How Birds Reveal Nature’s Secrets” (Young). Dan applies wildlife tracking skills in citizen science projects (e.g., Canada Lynx, Flying Squirrels, Moose, Eastern Wolf) as a Registered Maine Guide.

Fly fishing show in Marlboro

 The 2023 Fly Fishing Show will take place January 20-22 at the Royal Plaza Trade Center,181 Boston Post Road Marlborough, MA. Hours are 10 am to 6 pm on Friday, 9 am to 5:30 pm on Saturday and 9 am to 4:30 pm on Sunday. The show promises more fly-casting, tying, manufacturer and retail store displays of the newest rods, reels, lines, boots, waders, clothing and flies during the three-day run.

The show will have many demonstrations at its Destination Theater presentations each hour including Labrador’s Monster Brookies, Fly Fishing Martha’s Vineyard, Montana, Iceland, the Adirondacks and many others.  There will be more than $30,000 in door prizes.

Admission is $15 for one day, $25 for two days and $35 for three days. Children under age 5 are free, children 6-12 are $5 and active military with ID’s are $10.

Fly Fishers International hosts the Fly-Fishing Show Learning Center with fly tying, casting instruction and other fly-fishing information and is free to show attendees.

The New England premiere of the 2023 International Fly-Fishing Film Festival is Friday at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door.

For a complete listing of fly-fishing films, classes, seminars, door prizes, demonstrations, etc., visit www. flyfishingshow.com or phone (814) 443-3638.

 Beginner Snowshoe/Winter Hike

 On Saturday, January 21 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm BEAT and the Great Barrington Land Conservancy are having a 1-mile beginner winter hike at BNRC’s Housatonic Flats reserve on Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington. If weather permits, they’ll snowshoe, if there’s no snow, they’ll go for a winter hike. They will review the basics of winter hiking like what traction to wear on your feet, how to layer properly, and what to look for.

It will be an easy hike of 0.9 miles.  Bring water, wear sturdy footwear and wear layers. BNRC has a few pairs of micro-spikes and snowshoes to loan.  Animals not allowed. For questions contact Charlotte at chood@bnrc.org

Fishing community mourns the loss of Fred Moran

Frederick Dennis Moran of Adams passed beyond the riverbend on January 8 at the age of 80. He undoubtedly will be remembered by former students from the Lenox, Cheshire and Dalton schools.  He completed his last years as a classroom teacher at the Craneville Elementary School in Dalton.

Perhaps more people will remember Fred as an avid fly fisherman who ran Points North Outfitters in Adams.  For two decades Fred and his wife Marilyn taught hundreds how to fly fish and they guided hundreds more on the Deerfield River.  Fred was known for collecting antique (bamboo) fishing rods and reels and the building and restoration of fly-fishing rods. He later worked at the Orvis fly rod factory in Manchester, VT. He was a close friend of the legendary local bamboo rod builder, Francis “Digger” Degere and became his apprentice.

Fred was an esteemed member of the Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited where he and Digger put on rod building demonstrations.  Fred and Marilyn were recipients of TU’s Crooked Staff Award, the highest honor that the chapter bestows.  He was also a director of the Hoosic River Watershed Association.

Fred was a good friend.  The last time I saw him was when we did some flyfishing one day at the Alford Brook Club in August of 2020.  It was such a wonderful day that I did an article about it in this column. (Google Gene Chague-Fred Moran to read the Berkshire Eagle article). Boy, could he cast a fly!

Fred’s son Kevin (Berkshire Eagle Executive Editor) emailed me about his dad’s death and included these words, “I figured maybe some of his fishing buddies would imagine him casting a fly out there on heaven’s river, which is one way he’d like to be remembered, I’m sure. I suspect that Digger Degere is waiting for him there, and probably has the flies already picked out and ready to give to dad.”

Our condolences go out to Marilyn, Kevin and his entire family.  He will never be forgotten.

Help MassWildlife with its waterfowl survey

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Every 5 years, MassWildlife conducts a winter waterfowl survey of sites where people feed wild ducks and geese. While the feeding of wildlife is discouraged, there is no state law or regulation that prohibits feeding (though some municipalities do restrict or prohibit feeding). MassWildlife is asking for the public’s assistance to identify current waterfowl feeding locations so that biologists can visit and identify and count these birds.

The survey will be conducted statewide in January of 2023 and includes sites in urban, suburban, and rural areas near fresh, brackish, and salt water. Feeding sites range from municipal parks where many visitors come to feed the ducks to ducks gathering in backyards feeding on spilled bird seed or handouts thrown out someone’s back door.

MassWildlife biologists will visit historic feeding sites from January 9–27, 2023. Because feeding locations can change over 5 years, public input is needed. If you know of a spot where waterfowl are being fed, you are asked to let MassWildlife know by phone at 508-389-6321 or by e-mail at h.heusmann@mass.gov. Include the town and specific location where waterfowl are being fed. If you are able, also include the number of ducks and/or geese (preferably by species) that you see at the feeding site at one time.

Mallards are by far the most common duck at feeding sites, but other ducks may be observed as well. American black ducks and Canada geese are common, and wood ducks, pintails, gadwalls, American wigeon, and hooded mergansers are occasionally seen.

MassWildlife has been conducting the winter waterfowl survey for the past 50 years. A report summarizing this year’s survey results compared with previous years will be posted in the coming months.

Art contest connects youth artists to nature

There is still time to enter the Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp (JDS) contest. Students from kindergarten through grade 12 can submit original artwork to participate in this fun and educational competition. The entry deadline is February 15, 2023. The process of creating these works of art allows students to appreciate the importance of preserving wetland habitats and the delights and diversity of wildlife. “Even if students do not enter the competition, science and art teachers will value the JDS curriculum as a useful resource,” advises MassWildlife’s Wildlife Education Coordinator, Pam Landry.

The JDS program links the study of wetlands and waterfowl conservation with the creation of original artwork.  Students learn about the habitat requirements of various kinds of ducks and geese and then express their knowledge of the beauty, diversity, and interdependence of these species artistically, by creating a drawing or painting which can be submitted to the JDS art contest. The art is judged in four age group categories in a statewide competition; the entry judged Best of Show moves on to represent Massachusetts in the national JDS competition. Art teachers, science teachers, and parents who home-school can visit the MassWildlife web site for an information packet and entry information.

The Junior Duck Stamp is a pictorial stamp produced by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to recognize the conservation efforts of students and support environmental and conservation education programs. Sold by the U.S. Postal Service and Amplex Corporation, the $5 stamp is purchased by birders, conservationists, wildlife art and stamp collectors, students, hunters, educators, etc. Funds generated are re-invested in the program to fund environmental education efforts, provide awards for the students, teachers, and schools that participate in the program, and market the JDS program.

For more information contact Pam Landry at pam.landry@mass.gov.

If there are any local winners, I will gladly include their duck stamp pictures in this column.

Feed Wild Birds Safely and Responsibly

The New York Dept. of Conservation (DEC) has advice for its NY residents which is also good advice for us here in the Berkshires:

For many birdwatchers, November 30 is an important date: the day that backyard bird feeders can go back up. To avoid conflicts with bears, DEC highly recommends only feeding birds from November 30 to April 1. There are many natural sources of winter food for birds including birch catkins, spruce and fir cones, dried seed heads from native grasses and flowers, and lingering fruits on plants. Bird feeders can supplement these natural foods and may attract more birds to your yard. A simple tube feeder with black oil sunflower seed is a great place to start. Depending on where you live, you might expect to see chickadees, nuthatches, juncos, and goldfinches. Adding suet is a sure bet to draw in woodpeckers. To provide a source of water, try installing a birdbath heater or bubbler and regularly refreshing the water.

If you are drawing wild birds into your yard with feeders, try these tips to keep birds safe:

  • providing nearby cover such as evergreen trees, native shrubs, or even discarded Christmas trees;
  • placing feeders away from windows and making windowpanes bird-safewith screens, netting, decals, or vertical tape;
  • regularly cleaning feeders to avoid spreading disease;
  • securely storing bird seed indoors;
  • keeping cats indoors;
  • feeding pets inside to avoid inadvertently attracting feral cats, rodents, or other wildlife; and
  • taking down feeders in the spring to avoid bear conflicts.

Fishing and Hunting Swap Meet

The Cheshire Rod & Gun Club (CR&G) will be holding its third annual Fishing and Hunting Swap Meet on Saturday, January 28 at its clubhouse at 310 Curran Road, Cheshire.  The hours are from 8:00am to 1:00pm.  Open to the public, the admission cost is $3.00 for adults and kids 12 and under free.

It is an opportunity to buy, sell or trade new and used fishing and hunting gear.  No guns, ammunition, household items; unsold items must be removed.

Table space is still available at $30, which includes admission for one.  To reserve a table, contact Jeff Kruszyna at (413)743-4168.

Truckload of Goodies raffle winners

Staying with the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club, the winner of its Truckload of Goodies raffle was Melissa Fortini. 2nd place was John Haskins, 3rd was Bob Ciempa and 4th place was Tom Wiencek.  Congratulations to all!

Author Dave Whitlock passed beyond the riverbend

One of the most important figures in the history of modern fly fishing passed away last Thanksgiving night.

“It breaks my heart to let you know that we lost Dave to a massive stroke,” wrote Dave’s wife Emily on their social media account. “He was working on his boat next to our casting pond when it hit, and he was flown to Tulsa, AZ for care. But he broke the tippet and drifted gently back to the deep water, the wild that he loved and spent a lifetime exploring, writing and painting about”.

Fly Fisherman magazine honored him by naming him one of four greats that make up the Mt. Rushmore of fly fishing.  (The other three mentioned were Joe Brooks, Lee Wulff and Bernard “Lefty” Kreh). Fly Fisherman magazine editor Ross Purnell wrote “He was a brilliant trout angler, but he showed us that fly-fishing was about much more than trout. Because of him, we’ve had generations see the beauty in fly fishing for carp, bass, and panfish. He will be greatly missed.”

He was inducted into several Hall of Fames down through the years, including most recently, the International Game Fish Association’s Hall of Fame.

Dave’s art and writing appeared regularly in many fly-fishing and sport publications such as Fly Fisherman Magazine, Fly Fishing and Tying Journal, Trout Magazine and others. Besides them, he also authored or co-authored many flyfishing books.  I suspect most fly fishermen have one or two of his books in their libraries.

Fly tying event coming up

After being relatively quiet, due to the Covid Pandemic, the Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited is getting active again.  Starting off the new year, Berkshire Outfitters, on Grove Street in Adams, will be holding a Trout Unlimited Fly-tying event on Tuesday, January 24 at 6:00 pm. Beginners and experienced fly-tyers are welcome. Host Chris Samson will offer free lessons and loaner equipment for inexperienced tyers, as well as a good assortment of equipment and materials for purchase.  It is open to the public but space is limited, so call Chris at Berkshire Outfitters at  (413) 743-5900 to reserve your spot.

A look back at 2022 Woods and Waters columns

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At the end of last year, I highlighted the more informative and interesting articles that were included in this column during the year.  Because of positive comments received, I am doing the same for the year 2022.

In January we reported that seventeen women deer hunters participated in MassWildlife’s 2021 Becoming-an-Outdoors-Woman (BOW) Deer Hunt Program. Nearly all the women saw deer and all participants enjoyed their hunt. Two women harvested their first deer ever.  We also mentioned a lost Steller’s Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus), which is native to Asia. Somehow it found its way to the Taunton River in Massachusetts.

In March there was an article about Bob Leverett “the old growth evangelist”.  He informed us that there were indeed old growth forests in Massachusetts. He developed ways for measuring and aging them and their ability to capture carbon.  His work, along with that of Dr. Anthony D’Amato (of University of Vermont), have helped to ensure the protection of 1,200 acres of old growth in the Commonwealth’s Forest Reserves.  His message is “We have a duty to protect an old-growth forest, for both its beauty and its importance to the planet”. We learned of the death of Leo M Daley who spent some 42 years with the DFW.  He had held the titles of Aquatic Biologist, Fisheries Manager, and interim District Manager. In the 30 years spent in our district, he stocked over 1.5 million trout in Western Massachusetts waters.

In March and April there were articles about hungry black bears emerging from their dens and the problems they cause by raiding our bird feeders.  In the Berkshires there are about 2,000 of them and readers were advised on how to avoid conflicts with them.  MassWildlife Black Bear and Furbearer Biologist Dave Wattles’ study showed that female bears that they study in more suburban areas are very large, with weights averaging more than 250 pounds, compared to bears in more rural, forested areas averaging closer to 150 pounds.  A second big takeaway was how close to people bears will den. They had bear dens 10 yards off the back parking lot of a fire department, under a building on piling foundations, on the edge of a backyard, and in the middle of a construction yard. These bears had plenty of options to den in more remote locations but chose not to, indicating bears are finding supplemental food sources in suburban areas, such as unsecured garbage, bird feeders, and open compost. Biologists warn that human food sources are harmful to bears’ natural diets and put communities at added risk of unwanted conflicts.

picture taken and provided by Gene Chague. Bears heading for Gene’s deck.

In April we learned about the numbers and types of wildlife violations that our Massachusetts Environmental Police are dealing with.  A pitch was made for Massachusetts to join the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact, a network that seeks to reduce wildlife poaching through information sharing across state lines and reciprocal recognition of license suspensions and revocations for fishing, hunting, and trapping. The legislation, co-sponsored by Berkshire State Representatives Tricia Farley-Bouvier and Paul Mark, would update the Commonwealth’s outdated penalties for illegal hunting, some of which have not been updated in a century and currently amount to little more than a slap on the hand.  The bill passed later this year.

In April we reported that the highly pathogenic Avian Influenza was detected in wild birds in multiple locations in Massachusetts. Avian flu, also known as bird flu, is a common influenza strain that can spread from birds to humans through saliva, naval secretion and feces. The avian flu is not common among humans, but is very contagious among birds.  We reported the Preliminary 2021 deer harvest figures verses last year figures:

  • Youth Deer/Paraplegic Hunt Days: 86 vs 131 last year
  • Archery Season: 5,894 vs 6655 last year
  • Shotgun Season: 5,008 vs 5138 last year
  • Primitive Firearms Season: 2,375 vs 2842 last year

 

Although Western Zone harvests were not mentioned, DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden said that they were consistent with 2020 (which was a record year).

In May, 5 individuals received Silvio O. Conte sportsmen awards:  The late Chris Puntin, formerly of Pittsfield, received the Sportsman of the Year Award posthumously; Meredyth Babcock of Becket received the Outstanding Achievement Award; Stephanie Dupont of Pittsfield received the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award; Donald E. Girard of Adams received the Lifetime Achievement Award and Gregg Armstrong, of North Adams, received the John Zuber Award.  We also reported that after 38 years of state service, Marion E. Larson retired in early March from her position as Chief of MassWildlife’s Information and Education (I&E) Section.  Joshua Christman of Pittsfield, who had been named Massachusetts Angler of the Year (Adult Catch and Keep Category) in 2016, 2020 and 2021 by MassWildlife and a frequent multi-gold pin awardee, was off to another good start this year.  He caught a large rainbow trout out of Berkshire waters which measured 24 inches long and weighed 4 lbs.

In June Berkshire Environmental Action Team Executive Director Jane Winn announced that BEAT was awarded $200,000 from the Cultural Facilities Fund of the Massachusetts Cultural Council to renovate their new Environmental Leadership & Education Center.  Thirteen-year old Logan Middlebrook of Pittsfield landed a carp out of Pontoosuc Lake which weighed in at 13.3 lbs. and was over 30 inches long.   While fighting it he had to cross 2 house lots, a couple of bridges and over people’s docks.

Picture provided by Middlebrook family

James McGrath, Park, Open Space, and Natural Resource Program Manager, City of Pittsfield announced that the Mill Street dam was successfully removed along with over 8,000 tons of contaminated sediments.   Lee Sportsmen’s Association Higher Education Scholarship was awarded to Brianna Kelly.   The Bateman Jimmy Fund fishing derby was the greatest with over 355 people in attendance and over $10,000 raised.

In July, Joshua Christman, organizer of Carp Palooza, announced that it was a great event with 39 teams participating.   Steve Sears of Dalton was elected Acting Chairman of the MA Fish & Wildlife Board. We featured an article about a Picnic Table Boat.  It is powered by an electric motor, and if you run out of power, it has a solar panel on the top of the umbrella which recharges the battery.  The battery has a USB port into which they plug in lights, a speaker, an iPad, cooler, etc.

In August we covered the 75th anniversary of the Stockbridge Bowl Association.  Feature speaker was the old growth evangelist Bob Leverett. We covered successful flyfishing trips to Labrador and Yellowstone National Park made by local anglers.  Eight-year-old Michael (Mikey) Hubbard of Pittsfield successfully landed a 21-inch, 4.4lbs largemouth bass.

 

In September, Travis Bailey of Lee harvested a bear weighing 620 lbs. field dressed.  After it was skinned out, it measured 7 feet from nose to tail, with a space between its ears of 10 inches. Rachel Kanter of Lenox landed a monster 35-inch pike.

In October we reported that It was a good year for MassWildlife/ Department of Fish & Game land acquisitions and conservation completing 11 projects and protecting 937 acres. Great Barrington approved a new ordinance to help curb problem bears.

 

In November Paraplegic hunters took four deer in the Berkshires, seven statewide. The Youth pheasant hunt produced happy hunters. Some $483,922 was awarded in state grant funds to improve wildlife habitat on 514 acres of land within the Commonwealth.

 

In December we did an article about MassWildlife’s controlled burns. National Geographic wrote an article titled, ‘This Trail May Be the Best Way to See New England’s Fall Colors”. The specific Berkshires trail mentioned was BNRC’s High Road. The town of Nahant hired sharpshooters to eliminate its coyote problem. DFW Western District Supervisor had a great article in Massachusetts Wildlife about feeding bears.

 

During the year, we reviewed three books, two by local authors. The Richmond Pond Association and the Richmond Historical Commission produced a book entitled, The Gem of Richmond:  A History of Richmond Pond. The editor was Ken Kelly, of Lenox and Richmond. Paul C. Carter of Dalton came out with a new deer hunting book entitled, More Deer Hunts, through a Tracker’s Eyes.  Author Robert (Bob) Romano came out with a wonderful book entitled River Flowers.  All were still highly recommended.

Thanks for taking the time to read the columns this past year and hopefully you’ll stay with us next year.

Happy New Year!