Category Archives: Fishing

Big fish caught on little fishing pole

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Last week, 13-year old Logan Middlebrook of Pittsfield had a fishing day that he and others probably will never forget.  Accompanied by his dad, Bill Middlebrook, he was fishing on Pontoosuc Lake with Smelly Jelly, (a commercial stink bait).  He was fishing for bullhead with the hopes of catching one large enough to be awarded a bonze pin from MassWildlife.  All of a sudden, he hooked into a really big fish – a carp.

According to Bill, when Logan hooked the fish, it immediately raced for deep waters making a prolonged “zzzz” sound from the reel and it didn’t stop until it reached the end of his line which fortunately was well attached to the reel.  It almost pulled the rod out of Logan’s hands.

Some 15 or so people were present there watching the event.  One guy shouted “You are out of line!”, while another told Bill that “He ain’t never going to get that fish in, that’s a big fish!” It swam almost out to the island near Narraganset Avenue.

Get this, Logan was using a kid’s fishing outfit with a 4-foot telescope rod and a push button reel (Probably a Zebco reel).   Earlier, Bill offered to buy him a real “big boy” fishing pole, but Logan refused, preferring to fish with this cheap little rod.  He felt that little rod brought him good luck.

It took 28 minutes with no reel drag and no extra line to get the fish somewhat back near the shore and once he got it there, he had to walk across 2 house lots, a couple of bridges and over people’s docks fighting the fish all the way.   Although he got it close to shore, it was a distance from where he hooked it. He reeled more, fought it more, and wound up at another property.  And then it fought some more.

At one point Logan had to stop because his hand was cramped up.  “It won’t work, won’t even move”, he said.  Nevertheless, he refused to let anyone touch the rod.   According to Bill, every person there said that with no drag and no line, it was crazy that he got it to come back from half way out in the middle of the lake.  Bill said everyone was “breathtaken”.  “Look at his pole”, one observer commented, “its bent completely in half.  How is the pole holding together?  I don’t know how he’s doing it”.

Meanwhile, some guys were saying that, just because he got it back to shore, that doesn’t mean he is going to land it.  “It can snap that line at any time”, they said.  But Logan “just kept wearing it out and wearing it out”.  One person told Bill that one needs strong one-piece poles, 10 to 12 feet long, with 15 to 20-pound test line to catch these things.  Another observer stated that he has snapped $80 – $100 poles trying to land a 10 or 12- pound carp.  How can a little kid’s telescopic fishing pole that’s only 3 ½ feet long hold up?

The battle continued onto another guy’s yard whom they didn’t even know.  When that guy saw the battle and Bill with a net waiting to net it for Logan, he said, “That’s a trout net.  Here I’ll give you mine, I got an ocean net”.  And when this fish finally came in, Bill said, “Holy Mackerel.”  He couldn’t believe the size of it.  It appeared to be as big as Logan.

The following day, they brought it over to the Onota Boat Livery for certified weigh-in. It weighed in at 13.3 lbs. and was over 30 inches long. The day before, Bill’s scale  weighed it as being 15 lbs, but due to evaporation, it lost at least a pound overnight, which is not uncommon. Onota Boat Livery Co-owner Caryn Wendling (along with her husband Rick) said that no adults have weighed in any carp like that this year.

While at the Boat Livery, they checked the MassWildlife Freshwater Angling Awards page.  In the Youth Catch & Keep category, any carp caught over 10 lbs. will result in a bronze pin being awarded.  Incidentally, so far this year no carp that size has been reported statewide.  If no one gets a larger one by year-end, Logan will receive a gold pin and a trophy.

Logan just started fishing last fall and he enjoyed it.  Earlier this spring at Laurel Lake he caught a 3 lbs. rainbow trout and that really got him hooked.  This came as a pleasant surprise to Bill because he used to like to fish in his younger years but hasn’t fished in the last 30 or so years.  Now that Logan has latched onto the sport, it gives them something to do together.  Bill now has a fishing partner and they go out a couple of times a week. “Now, I get to do something that I used to enjoy again.” said Bill.

Within a week after catching that large carp, Logan caught a 5 lbs., bronze pin shad from the Connecticut River in Holyoke and 1 ½ lbs. bronze pin rock bass from Onota Lake.  He wants to catch as many fish as he can in each category and get a pin for each one.  He has a bucket hat now and he is going to put all his pins on it.

One other tidbit of information as relayed to me by Bill.  Logan’s mother (Ashleigh) got him a shirt that says “Here fishy, fishy, fishy”. When she gave it to him, he said he wasn’t going to wear it.  (After all, he is 13 now).  Ashleigh told him to just wear it, he needed to wear a tee shirt.  Logan relented and wore it on the day he caught the big carp.    Now, he won’t wear any other shirt fishing, and he considers it his lucky shirt.

I wonder if he will let Ashleigh wash that shirt, lest she might wash the good luck out of it.  Be careful treading there, mom.

Berkshire Natural Fish Hatchery Youth Fishing Derby

The Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery in conjunction with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service will be sponsoring a free fishing derby on June 11 at the lower pond of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery, 240 Hatchery Road, New Marlborough from 9:00 am to 10:30 am for children 13 and under.  They must be accompanied by an adult.

Mill Street Riverway pedestrian walkway plan review

James McGrath, Park, Open Space, and Natural Resource Program Manager, City of Pittsfield has the following message for us:

“While the world was hunkering down during a global pandemic in the spring of 2020, the City of Pittsfield was knee deep in the complex project to remove the Mill Street dam.   Despite all of the challenges that working in an active river (and COVID) posed, the dam was successfully removed – along with over 8,000 tons of contaminated sediments – and the river banks were restored.

Fast forward two plus years, and we’re still focused on that site.  Though, this time around we’re planning for something a bit less tricky and a lot more user-friendly:  a walkway along the restored river system.

Working with engineers and landscape architects from SLR and the MA Div. of Ecological Restoration, the City has been working to develop design concepts for a new stretch of pedestrian walkway along this stretch of the West Branch of the Housatonic River.  The idea behind the walkway is to afford visitors an opportunity to experience the river in a new way while learning about the dam removal and how this river contributed to the growth and development of Pittsfield.

We welcome you to join our webinar next Tuesday evening, June 7 at 7:00 pm to learn about the project!  Register in advance for this webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_biIk5-RmRcCfGrNwim-RMw

Hoosic River Clean-up

Next Saturday, June 11 from 9:00 am to noon, the Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited, the Hoosic River Watershed Association (HooRWA) and the Hoosic River Revival (HRR) are joining forces to conduct a Hoosic River clean-up.  Volunteers will meet at the Alcombright Ball Fields.

The clean-up will take place from the ball fields to Protection Avenue.  Bags, gloves and tools will be on hand, but if you can bring your own, it’s always helpful.  And, oh yes, bring your waders.

Sign-up not required.

Its fishing derby time

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The annual Stockbridge Bowl Fishing Derby yesterday took place last Saturday.  According to coordinator Tim Minkler, it was rain free and nice and warm (85 to 90 degrees). There was a total of 73 participants including 17 youths.  The results are as follows:

Results:  $100 winners:

Largest Trout:  Lukas Trumps of Lee, Weight: 1 lb, 9 oz / 16.5”  long

Largest Bass:  Adam Henderson, Westfield, Weight:  4 lbs even / 20” long

Largest Pickerel:  Tynia Harrington, Lee, Weight: 3 lbs, 9oz / 25” long

Largest Bullhead:  Seth Slemp, Lee, Weight: 1 lb, 8 oz / 13.5” long

 

Age 12 and under Winners:

Largest Trout:  Sandie Prew, 6 years old, Lee,  Weight:  1 lb, 7 oz, 16” long

Largest Bass:  Trentonn Santotin, 6 years old, Lee, Weight:  1 lb, 1 oz, 12” long

Largest Pickerel:  Connor Casey, Housatonic, 11 years old, Weight: 1 lb, 15 oz., 21”

Largest Bullhead:  Mya Methe, Washington, 8 years old, Weight:  11.3 oz, 11” long.

 

The Wild Acres Youth Fishing Derby also had a great turnout

 

Last Saturday the Wild Acres Youth Fishing Derby took place.  And, for a change, the weather was great with some 90 youths registered.  This was the 8th year that the City of Pittsfield Conservation Commission and Lyon Aviation sponsored the event. 

 

Representing the City of Pittsfield were Becky Manship, Recreation and Special Events Coordinator and Rob Van Der Kar, Pittsfield Conservation Agent. Assisting the anglers were Onota Fishing Club President Fred Ostrander and his team of OFC volunteers. Dave’s Sporting Goods Store and Onota Boat Livery provided the worms and some equipment, Lyon Aviation donated funds for the event and The Berkshire National Fish Hatchery provided the brook trout.   Al Lussier, co-owner with his wife Tracey of Ozzies Steak and Eggs Restaurant in Hinsdale, catered the event out of their food van.

Even though some 300 Brook trout were stocked into the pond, they were hard to catch, in fact, only 1 of them was caught.  Four -year-old Johanna Sheran caught a respectable 11”, .5 lb brookie.  Fortunately, bass, yellow perch and bull head filled the gap.  Of the 25 fish caught, 17 of them were bass.  During slow periods, some kids entertained themselves catching bullfrogs

 

The youngest angler who took home a trophy was 2-year-old Carina Roy who also caught a respectable fish, a 11 ¼ ‘.6 lb yellow perch.

 

Our hats are off to Lyon Aviation, the City of Pittsfield, the Onota Fishing Club and everyone involved for providing the kids with such a wonderful day.

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend this year due to testing positive for Covid and being quarantined.  I missed seeing the excitement and the sheer glee on the faces of the youngsters as they were catching their fish.  Many thanks go to Joshua Christman for taking photos and providing information as did Dan Miraglia.  Also, a huge thank you goes to Becky Manship for her hard work in providing me the names of all the derby winners and other pertinent information.

Annual Harry A Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby coming up

 The 30th Annual Harry A. Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby, will take place next Saturday, June 4, 2022 at the Frank Controy Pavilion at Onota Lake in Pittsfield, from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. No fishing license is required because it is Free Fishing Weekend for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

In my opinion, this fishing derby is perhaps the most important and largest of our local derbies.  Open to the public, its purpose is to raise money for the Jimmy Fund – Dana Farber Cancer Institute. All of the proceeds will be donated to the Jimmy Fund in memory of Harry A. Bateman a former member of Central Berkshire Bowman & I.U.E. Local 255 who was well known throughout Berkshire County and who became a victim of cancer in 1992.

15 trophies and prizes will be awarded to the winners of the fishing derby – 8 trophies for children, 4 trophies for adults and 3 trophies that can be won by adults or children. There is even a special category for those fishing with a bow & arrow. All fish must be weighed in at 12:00 p.m. and can be caught at Onota Lake from a boat or the shore.  Don’t be late as the scales will be removed immediately after 12:00pm.

The fee is $10 for adults, $5 for children 14 years old and younger. Advanced tickets may be purchased at Avid Sports, Dave’s Sporting Goods, & Onota Boat Livery. Everyone needs to register at the Frank Controy Pavilion before all fish can be weighed in.  You must be wearing your wrist band provided at the registration desk in order to receive food and to weigh in your fish.

Even if you can’t make the derby, donations to the cause will be graciously accepted.

Trout stocking

 

The following waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week, subject to change: Deerfield River in Buckland, Florida and Charlemont; East Branch of the Westfield River in Cummington, Chesterfield and Huntington; Housatonic River (C/R) in Lee and Stockbridge, Goose Pond, Laurel Lake, Lake Buel, Otis Reservoir, Onota Lake, Stockbridge Bowl and Windsor Pond.

The DFW Western District spring stocking is now complete.

Once again, a hearty thank you goes out to Western District Clerk Deb Lipa who took on the added workload of providing the stocking information to us this spring.  If you happen to visit the District Office in Dalton, you might want to thank her personally.

As previously mentioned, it is free fishing weekend next weekend with no freshwater license needed.  You have a whole week to clear your calendar and take the family fishing.

Congratulations to BEAT

Berkshire Environmental Action Team Executive Director Jane Winn recently 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.  Also, they will be restoring the riverbank by removing invasive species and replanting with native, wildlife-supporting plants. Funding from the Cultural Facilities Fund will allow them to make renovations to their building, which among other things includes a balcony to observe wildlife and the river.

Next Sunday, on Sunday, June 5, they are doing a river cleanup by canoe with the Housatonic Valley Association (HVA). They’ll meet at Decker Boat Ramp in Lenox at 1:00 PM and paddle down the river collecting trash caught behind trees and other natural areas. They will end around 4:00 PM.

If you’re interested in joining and can bring your own boat or kayak, register with Noah at noah@thebeatnews.org.

 

Help monitor for bacteria in the Housatonic Watershed

HVA could use some help collecting water samples in the Housatonic watershed once every two weeks, mid-June through mid-September from about 8:00 to 9:00 am.

If interested, the HVA will be holding two training sessions for volunteers to learn how to do the monitoring.  The monitoring sites will primarily be in Monterey, Egremont, Alford and Dalton.

For more information, email Shannon at spoulin.hva@gmail.com or call 413-298-7024 (be sure to leave a message).

Memorial Day Weekend

 

It’s that time again when we honor those who have fought, suffered and/or and died in defense of our nation.  I repeat my hope of last year, that as a nation we can set aside our differences and come together this weekend to remember them and their sacrifices.  They deserve nothing less.

Also, we owe a huge debt of gratitude to the health care workers who risked so much to see that as many people as possible received proper medical attention during the Covid pandemic.  While they did not risk life and limb in armed combat, they sure experienced horrific stress.  I suspect that many currently are experiencing PTSD.

Lastly, let’s not forget the one million plus US residents who succumbed to the deadly disease.  Our thoughts and prayers are with their surviving family members.

Questions/comments:  Berkwoodsandwaters@roadrunner.com.   Phone: (413) 637-1818

 

 

 

Specialty license plate provides new funding to restore trout streams

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The leaping brook trout license plate has been available to motorists since 1998, and has provided funding for grassroots conservation efforts through the Massachusetts Environmental Trust (MET) for many years. Thanks to a new agreement, the plate now also provides funding for the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) to target high-priority restoration efforts in trout streams.

Eastern brook trout, the only type of wild trout native to Massachusetts, are listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in the Massachusetts State Wildlife Action Plan and require cold, clean water to thrive. Brook trout are an important recreational resource for anglers, and their presence is considered an indicator of high-quality coldwater habitat. Unfortunately, wild trout in Massachusetts are at risk from warming water temperatures, changes in stream flow, and disruptive human activities on the landscape, like dams and culverts that block their movements.

“The conservation projects funded through the brook trout license plate will complement and advance MassWildlife’s existing efforts to manage and restore coldwater habitats in Massachusetts,” said Todd Richards, MassWildlife’s Assistant Director of Fisheries. “As climate change and habitat degradation increasingly threaten habitats for wild trout and other coldwater species, it’s more important than ever to bring together partners to conserve these resources.”

Half of the proceeds will go directly to MassWildlife for the conservation and management of coldwater fishery resources, while the remaining funds are distributed through a grants program to other conservation partners that are engaged in management activities that benefit brook trout and their habitats. Funds will be directed to high-priority projects, like those developed to restore habitats and improve fish passage, improve knowledge of coldwater fisheries ecology, and address emerging issues such as climate change.

“The Massachusetts Environmental Trust is pleased to continue and refine its partnership with the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife on the Brook Trout license plate,” said R.J. Lyman, Chair of the Massachusetts Environmental Trust. “The Trust has always focused its funding on public and non-profit initiatives to protect threatened species and critical habitats, in marine, estuarine, and fresh water resource areas. More plates mean more protection!”

The plate is available through the Registry of Motor Vehicles to all motorists who are registering a vehicle in the Commonwealth. For motorists who already have a vehicle registered and want this plate, they can visit Mass.gov/myRMV to order one. Like all specialty plates, the cost to the motorist is $40 every two years, in addition to the cost of a standard passenger plate every two years. MET also offers other specialty environmental plates including the striped bass plate, the right whale plate, and the Blackstone Valley plate.

Trout Stockings

 

The following waters were stocked with trout the week of May 9- 13:  Trout Brook in Worthington and Peru, Wahconah Falls Brook in Dalton, Windsor Brook in Windsor and Hinsdale, Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington; Clam and Buck Rivers in Sandisfield, Town Brook in Lanesborough, Hoosic River in Cheshire and Adams, Yokun Brook in Lenox, West Brook in in Lee and Great Barrington, Sackett Brook in Dalton and Pittsfield, Larrywaug Brook in Stockbridge, Greenwater Brook, Goose Pond Brook and Beartown Brook in Lee; Konkapot River in Monterey and New Marlborough, Housatonic River (C&R) in Lee and Stockbridge, Little River in Worthington and Huntington, Westfield River in Huntington, Littleville Lake in Huntington and Chester, Ashfield Pond in Ashfield, Windsor Pond in Windsor and Onota Lake in Pittsfield

 

Waters scheduled to be stocked during the week of May 16 – 20:  Clesson Brook in Ashfield and Buckland, West Branch of the  Westfield River in Becket, Middlefield, Chester and Huntington; East Branch of the Westfield River in Windsor, Cummington and Chesterfield, North Branch of the Hoosic River in Clarksburg and North Adams, Chickley River in Charlemont and Hawley, Cold River in Florida and Charlemont, East Branch of the Housatonic River in Hinsdale and Dalton, Southwest Branch of the Housatonic River in Pittsfield, Green River (North) in New Ashfield and Williamstown, Plunkett Reservoir in Hinsdale, Norwich Pond in Huntington, Goose Pond in Lee and Tyringham, Laurel Lake, Otis Reservoir and Richmond Pond.

 

Good showing at the Beagle Club Field Trials

 

On April 23 and 24 the Berkshire Beagle Club held an American Kennel Club (AKC) sanctioned field trial on its land in Richmond, MA.  Contestants from PA, NY, MA, VT, NH, CT and RI participated in the two-day event. According to Club Secretary Patrick Barry, it was one of their biggest field trials.  They had 43 entries on Saturday and 75 entries on Sunday, for a total of 118 hounds

Ralph Harington

 

Males ran on Saturday and females on Sunday.  Classes were further identified as 13-inch and 15-inch beagles. Awards were given for first through fourth places as well as NBQ (next best qualifier).

 

Ralph Harrington of Cambridge, New York, who is a Berkshire Beagle Club member, took home a blue ribbon.  Or, I should say his 13-inch 2 ½ year old male named Ralph’s Copper City Eaton Stew (pictured) did. Quite an accomplishment when you consider the stiff competition that was there that day.  According to Ralph, his handsome beagle has also placed in other field trials recently.

 

Pictured with Ralph and to his left is Scott Bisbee and Bob Kane, Jr.to his right.  Both are field trial judges

 

Ralph also commented that it was a nice event with good food and good judges.

 

He’s at it again

Joshua Christman of Pittsfield, who has 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 is off to another good start this year.  Check out the huge rainbow trout which he caught recently out of Berkshire County waters.  It measured 24 inches long and weighed 4 lbs.

Josh Christman with large rainbow trout

It looks bigger, ey?

Dept of Fish & Game/ Army Corps of Engineers Agreement

Last month, at the Silvio O. Conte Awards Banquet, which was held at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club, Ron Amidon, Commissioner of MA Department of Fish & Game Department (DFG), was called upon to say a few words.  He didn’t plan on speaking, but I think you would be interested in what he did say in his short speech.

About 4 years ago DFG started negotiations with the Army Corp of Engineers (ACOE).  DFG owns land that abuts the ACOE in a lot of locations, but one of the locations that has the most land (8,000 acres) is called Birch Hill Dam of Central MA that ACOE owns.  The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) have a lot of abutting land.  If one puts those 3 landowners together, there’s almost 14,000 acres of open, conserved land.

Most people agree that the DFW and DCR are doing a good job of managing their lands but the ACOE will be the first to admit that they do not. They acknowledge that land management is not what they do, but rather flood protection.  According to Amidon, the ACOE in effect asked the DFE to manage their lands. After 2 ½ years of negotiations, an agreement was signed.  DFW will get to manage the ACOE land and, they get to keep the money for up to 5 years as long as they put that money back into the management of those lands.  That includes prescribed burns, invasive species control and improvement of the roads.

Amidon believes that is the first license agreement with the ACOE in the entire northeast and perhaps in the country in terms of pilot programs.  So, all of the other areas where they (DFG/DCR) own land that abuts land owned by the ACOE, such as the Knightsville Dam area are being looked into with the hopes of coming to similar management agreements.

Amidon discussed other interesting projects which we hope to get into in future columns.

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Richmond Pond book is a gem

In a joint project, 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, the attractive cover was designed by Valeri Reynolds and Jennifer Coughlin.  Many writers contributed to the book and it was published by Troy Book Makers. Although the 160-page book is soft cover, it and the ensuing pages are top quality, glossy paper, capable of being passed on from generation to generation.

There is something in this book for everyone, especially if you are a local history buff. It covers the period from the Holocene Glacial Retreat, some 12,000 years ago to present day. Richmond Pond (formerly called South Pond) began as a 98-acre glacial pond, scraped from the limestone and marble bedrock by advancing glaciers thousands of years ago. At the time, it was about 30 feet deep near the center. Over the years, a dam was built, breached, raised and rebuilt a couple of times arriving at the point where it is today, encompassing 218 acres and over 50 feet deep. Some 120 acres of what was prime farmland now comprises part of the lake floor.

It is believed that the first inhabitants in the area were Paleo-Indians, and later the Mohicans. According to the book, by the late 1700’s, the pond would have been in mesotrophic condition (medium amounts of nutrients present). As the nutrients, temperature change and oxygen levels all worked in balance, the pond became a great habitat for fish and wildlife. In the 1700’s the settlers arrived and built the first dam for industry use, and the process of eutrophication (increasing plant growth) began.

The book covers everything that happened after that – the farming and later selling of surrounding farmland, the building of nearby railroad tracks on the western side of the pond, the conversion of various sections of land into camps, residence areas, beaches and a boat ramp, and the people who were directly involved along the way.

Chapter Three of the book deals with the fish and wildlife. In the mid to late 1860’s large catches of pickerel took place, and “most of the fish were of good size.” Around that time, non-native black bass (largemouths) and white bass (white perch?) were stocked. With the 50+ feet depth of the lake and its cold water in some areas, rainbow, brown and brook trout were stocked and they seem to thrive there. Now, there are 10 species of freshwater fish found in that pond, most of which were at one time or another legally stocked.

But not all. In 1979 a 20 lbs. 42.5 inch northern pike was caught out of it by Lois Kelly (Ken’s mom). According to Ken, it was probably the result of “sleuth private stockings” or “bait bucket introductions.”  The book illustrates a couple of pictures of other successful anglers.

It makes reference to The History of the County of Berkshire, Massachusetts published in 1829, which included a listing of animals, fish, birds, reptiles and plants that existed near Richmond Pond in those days. With the exception of the wolf, lynx and mountain lion all are still there. Wild turkey had disappeared by then, but as you know the State has reintroduced them and they currently are thriving. The book lists an impressive array of migrating waterfowl that visit the pond annually.

There are chapters entitled “Old Times” and “Early Settlers.” They mention, in quite detail, the early inhabitants, (Mohicans) and how they were displaced by European colonization and what they in turn did with the land. One chapter addressed the expansions of the pond over the years, another the effects of the railroads.

The chapter covering ice harvesting is quite interesting. Gray haired folks like myself well remember the blocks of ice delivered by the ice man who put them into our “ice boxes”. That was before the Frigidaire came onto the scene. There are pictures of people hand sawing ice blocks, of ice chutes used for loading the blocks onto the nearby railroad and of ice houses, one being the Shaker Village Ice House.

Some eight summer camps existed on that lake at different times, starting in the 1890’s and the book covers each one.  Ah!  The memories of local teenage boys fishing and swimming the lake back then, always trying to scheme a plan to penetrate the perimeter of the girls’ camps.

The book covers the various community associations that currently exist there as well as some of its notable business neighbors.

There is so much more I could mention about the book but I don’t want to give away all of the secrets contained in it. Suffice it to say that it is a good read and I highly recommend it.  Ken, and his team did a great job.

I understand that the book is in its 3rd printing already. It can be purchased at Bartlett’s, Balderdash Cellars, Shaker Mill Books, Hancock Shaker Village and The Bookstore in Lenox.

At $20, it’s a steal.

Spring Fishing Derby

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club is sponsoring a spring fishing derby on Sunday, May 22 at the Stockbridge Bowl Boat Ramp.  It will run from dawn until 3:00 pm.  Cash prizes of $100 will be awarded to the lucky anglers who catch the heaviest trout or salmon, pickerel, bass and bullhead.  There will be free lures for all kids 12 and under.  The pre-registration fee is $10.00 and post-registration is $15.00.

Tickets are available at:  Minkler Insurance Agency at 31 Main Street, Stockbridge or (w) 413-644-3590, (h) 413-298-4630 or contact any club member.  Official rules may be picked up at the boat ramp.

Trout Stocking

I was away last week and was not able to obtain a listing of local waters stocked before I left.  To find out the most recent waters stocked, click onto: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/trout-stocking-report.

Endangered Species Day coming up

Join MassWildlife on May 20 to recognize the 432 plants and animals that are considered rare in Massachusetts. These rare species play an important role in keeping the Commonwealth’s natural communities thriving. MassWildlife’s Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program (NHESP) focuses on conserving rare species and their habitats throughout Massachusetts.

On Endangered Species Day and every day of the year, you can make a difference in rare species conservation.  Here’s how:

  • Report rare species – Help MassWildlife monitor rare plants and animals by telling them when you see the species. If you have information on the location of a rare species or a vernal pool and would like to help NHESP keep its database current, submit your observations through the Heritage Hub.
  • Donate to support rare species – You can make a big impact by donating directly to NHESP. You might consider making a donation of $4.32 on May 20 to honor the 432 animals and plants on the MA Endangered Species Act List. All money donated goes towards conserving the rare animals and plants that call Massachusetts home. Your donation goes toward equipment and services needed to give these species a fighting chance.

Massachusetts Pistol License Course

On Sunday, May 22, from 8:30am until 1:30pm the Lee Sportsmen’s Association will be sponsoring a Massachusetts Pistol License Course which qualifies participants to apply for a Massachusetts FID or LTC, plus pistol licenses in Connecticut, Florida, etc.  This comprehensive one-day course includes information for federal and state firearm laws, operation and safe handling of firearms, shooting fundamentals, care and cleaning, concealed carry methods, a live fire session on the LSA Indoor Pistol Range, and much more.

Course fee is $160 due in cash on the day of the course. State license application fees and processing are not included. Participants will receive a course certificate, application forms, other resources and supporting documents.  Participants will also receive new Walker’s earmuffs and safety glasses that are theirs to keep.  Club membership applications will be available at the course.

To register, visit www.NRApistolinstructor.com and use the Contact form; providing your full name including middle initial, date of birth, course date, course selection, address, telephone, and email contact information.  For questions or concerns, and if you require assistance to register for a course, contact Robert McDermott at (413) 232-7700 or email robmcdermott@verizon.net.

MassWildlife’s Information and Education Chief, Marion Larson retired

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After over 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. Marion joined MassWildlife in 1991, after she had served the Commonwealth for seven years as an Environmental Police Officer.

She began her MassWildlife career in I&E as a Wildlife Education Specialist, coordinating Project WILD, a national program that provides ecology and conservation teaching resources and training to K-12 teachers and serving on the Massachusetts Envirothon steering committee, in addition to providing trainings, coordinating public displays and events, and performing many other related duties. In later years, Marion was the Outreach Coordinator, fielding emails and phone calls from the public; providing content for the agency’s website; organizing meetings, programs, and events; developing the agency’s newsletter,  and handling press inquiries in coordination with the Department of Fish and Game and the Secretariat of Energy and the Environment.

Marion was promoted to her ultimate position of Chief of I&E in 2012. During her tenure, she served on the board of directors of the Massachusetts Junior Conservation Camp, on the Massachusetts Envirothon Council, as part of the Massachusetts State Commission for Conservation of Soil, Water, and Related Resources’ grant review team, and on the Northeast Information & Education Association. While she was Chief, the agency developed and implemented its highly successful social-media outreach and marketing strategy; focused its efforts on hunter and angler recruitment, retention, and reactivation; opened its new LEED Platinum certified Field Headquarters in Westborough; and proudly celebrated its 150th anniversary with a gala, full-day open house at the Field Headquarters.

Marion Larson provided by MassWildlife

The hallmarks of Marion’s successful career are the lasting connections she made across agencies and organizations statewide and the seemingly effortless, down-to-earth rapport she always maintained with members of the press and the public alike. Her general wildlife and conservation knowledge and ability to convey it simply are matched only by her curiosity and enthusiasm for the subjects. Marion’s lifelong passion for education was the catalyst for much of her work. As she noted in her farewell email to her MassWildlife colleagues, “whether it was in law enforcement, working with educators and volunteers, outreach to different audiences, media relations, publications, [or] other communications efforts, the common thread was education.”

Marion received a Commonwealth of Massachusetts Citation for Outstanding Performance in 2000 and was recently honored with two new prestigious awards, the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award from Worcester County League of Sportsmen’s Clubs and the Lillian Gribbons Award, given by the Massachusetts Sportsmen’s Council.

I first met Marion in the early 1990’s when she assisted the then information chief Ellie Horwitz in the MassWildlife’s Becoming an Outdoorswoman (BOW) program.  No, I didn’t try to become an outdoorswoman, but my wife Jan did. I taught fly-tying classes for them.

 

I can’t begin to tell you how helpful she was in providing information for this column over the years.  Nearly every month or so I communicated with her to get clarification of something or perhaps to obtain contact information of someone about whom I was writing. She was always very helpful.

“I have enjoyed meeting and working with various folks from the Berkshire outdoor and environmental community over the years, especially George Darey.  A teacher in so many ways, I appreciated his experience and advice.” she said. “There are some terrific people and organizations that are doing great work, partnering with one another on good projects. (By) working together on common goals, reaching out to new and different audiences, much more can be accomplished.”

On behalf of the local sportsmen and women, we offer a hearty thanks for her service and wish her a long and happy retirement.

Will Marion just fade away into the sunset?  I doubt that for she continues to serve on the Board of Directors of the New England Outdoor Writer’s Association, along with her old friend Ellie Horwitz.

Trout Stockings

The following waters were scheduled to be stocked last week:  Dry Brook in Cheshire and Adams, Walker Brook in Becket and Chester, Deerfield River in Buckland, Florida and Charlemont; South Brook in Cheshire, Westfield River (Middle Branch) in Worthington, Middlefield, Chester and Huntington;  Westfield River (East Branch) in Savoy, Cummington and Chesterfield; Housatonic River (East Branch) in Dalton, Housatonic River (SW Branch) in Pittsfield, Kinderhook Creek in Hancock, Williams River in West Stockbridge and Great Barrington, Greenwater Pond in Becket, Littleville Reservoir in Chester and Huntington, North Pond in Florida, Berry Pond in Hancock, Garfield Lake in Monterey and Windsor Lake in North Adams.

Trout stocking with kids

Last month, on Earth Day, hundreds of youngsters helped DFW personnel stock close to 800 rainbow trout into Onota Lake.  And they didn’t charge a penny for their services. They certainly kept District Aquatic Biologist Leanda Fontaine-Gagnon busy for a while netting them out of the DFW truck mounted aerated fish tank and placing them gently into the pails.

Let ’em fly son. Picture provided by Gene Chague

Each year, the MA DFW invites the public to help them stock trout during school vacation week.  What a wonderful way for the kids to meet MassWildlife fisheries staff, view the trout up close, and learn about places to fish near them.

I always get a kick out of seeing the expressions on the faces of these youngsters (and their parents) when they first see a real live trout flopping around in their 5-gallon pails while running to the lake side to quickly release them. Some of these kids are not much bigger than the pails that they are carrying. With District Manager Andrew Madden urging them on at the shoreline, they gave hearty heave hos, and launched the trout out of the pails and watched them sail through the air before plopping harmless into the water.  Every kid got a chance to liberate some of the trout with a parent running closely by them snapping pictures.  I am pleased to report that there were no fish casualties and all of them quickly swam into deeper waters.

Berkshire Natural Fish Hatchery Youth Fishing Derby

The Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery in conjunction with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service will be sponsoring a free fishing derby on May 14 at the lower pond of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery, 240 Hatchery Road, New Marlborough from 9:00 am to 10:30 am for children 13 and under.  They must be accompanied by an adult.

License to carry course

 

Pete’s Gun Shop in Adams is holding an NRA & Massachusetts State Police Certified LTC Safety Course. The course consists of classroom instruction followed by live firing.  This will be a two evening all inclusive, live fire class on Tuesday and Wednesday May 17 and 18 at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club. The classroom portion will be on the 17th at 5:30 pm and the shooting portion will be on the 18th at 5:30 pm.

 

This is to qualify residents and non-residents for the MA License to Carry or FID Card.  Participants will receive a $10 gift certificate to Pete’s Gun Shop in appreciation for taking the course. The cost of $100 covers use of the range, firearms, ammo, safety gear, class materials, certificates, and the NRA Basic Pistol Safety Textbook. Individuals can pre-register by calling or stopping in at Pete’s Gun Shop at 413-743-0780, as space is limited. A non- refundable deposit is required to reserve your seat at the time of registration. No credit cards are accepted.

 

This live fire course fills up very quickly so call or stop in early to pre-register.

 

Puppy Day at the Beagle Club

Own a young beagle under 1 ½ years old?  You might want to consider bringing it over to the Berkshire Beagle Club on Sleepy Hollow Road in Richmond next Saturday morning, May 14, to see if it has any interest in bunnies.  The Club is having a beagle “puppy day” where from 8:00 am to noon the general public is invited to bring their dog over.   The cost is $10.  The property is entirely fenced in so it can’t get lost or hit on a road.   People will be there to give advice on how to train your puppy.  It’s a good time to meet members and learn about the club should you be interested in someday joining.  For more information, contact Chris Wilser at (845)489-6554 or Jeff St John at (413) 441-0744.

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Conte banquet honors five

Over 160 people attended the Silvio O. Conte Awards Banquet at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club last Saturday night to honor the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) 2019 award winners.  Past BCLS President, Mark Jester, did his usual yeoman’s job as emcee.

 

As listed in my column of January 12, 2020, five people were selected to receive awards.  Then came covid and there was no Conte Banquet in that year nor in 2021.  After it was decided to finally hold the Conte Banquet this year, I reminded everyone by listing the 5 recipients and their accomplishments in the column of February 26.

 

Before the awards ceremony, MA Fish & Game Commissioner Ron Amidon gave a very interesting talk which space does not allow me to relate at this time.  I will circle back to that talk in a future column.

 

The late Chris Puntin, formerly of Pittsfield, received the Sportsman of the Year Award posthumously.  Unfortunately, Chris lost his life in a hunting accident in 2020 while helping out at the Youth Turkey Hunt Day.  He was the local chairman of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and served on the Massachusetts State Board.   For many years he was a mentor for the youth turkey hunts and was a key organizer at the NWTF fund raisers.

In honoring Puntin, Joe Judd, Massachusetts Chapter NWTF Board Member and Sports Columnist for the Greenfield Recorder, made it abundantly clear that not only the local sportsmen suffered a great loss with Joe’s passing, but the State as well.  “We (the Board) knew early on that Chris was special and we saw it from the very beginning” he said, “He loved young people and lit up just watching a youth learning to use a turkey call for the first time.  He had the skill to help them in a way that what they learned from him they would retain, and if they didn’t, Chris would give more.  We knew that he was the guy that was going to lead us in that area in the future.  We are very proud to have known him and worked with him and we are all happy to be here tonight to thank him”.

The plaque was accepted by Chris’s son Nick.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meredyth Babcock of Becket received the Outstanding Achievement Award.  Meredyth is the Volunteer and Projects Coordinator for the Wild and Scenic (W/S) Westfield River Committee.  As Coordinator, she partners with communities, municipal officials, conservation organizations and Federal and State agencies to manage the Westfield River and maintain the health of the entire watershed for nearby and downstream communities.

She is also helping out with the Highlands Foot Passage and is slowly working toward improving the East Branch Trail.

 

The Becket-Washington School did 5 years of a Stream Explorer Program where for 6 weeks Meredyth came after school and basically walked the river, called the “Walking the River Roads.”  They also did “Teen River Clean” where the W&S Committee hired teenagers to go to areas where they had seen garbage and they cleaned it up.  The Committee didn’t pay them but rather granted scholarships for helping out.

Stephanie Dupont of Pittsfield received the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award – Since joining the Lee Sportsmen’s Association (LSA) in 2015, Stephanie and her husband Eric have made sure that their children have been pre-eminent members of the Air2Spare Jr. Air Pistol Team as well as the youth shotgun and archery programs.  She made sure that they also participated in the LSA’s fishing derbies, clean-up days, fund raisers and hunts.  Stephanie has become a vital part of the day-to-day operations of the club as a Board Member, member of the Fundraising Committee, a member of the Youth Programs Committee and grant writer.   She is Assistant Coach of the High Caliber 22 Bullseye Pistol Team, started the Summers Ladies Night Fun Shoot Program, and wrote a bi-weekly column for the Berkshire Record.

Donald E. Girard of Adams received the Lifetime Achievement Award – Don, who has been a scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop #38 in Adams, has been instrumental in leading the youth in appreciation and preservation of our environment. With the involvement of several assistant leaders Don saw the advancement of over 75 youths to Eagle Scout.  The troop planted numerous trees on Pfizer property and Florida Mountain property to enhance and preserve the forest, and planted Christmas trees as a sustainable fund-raising project for the Troop.  They also cleared and maintained many hiking trails including land abutting Windsor Lake in North Adams and Camp Holy Cross in Goshen.  Don taught gun safety and marksmanship at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club and at summer camps at Goshen and also helped out in the Cub Scout fishing derbies.

Gregg Armstrong, of North Adams, received the John Zuber Award.  Gregg has been a member of the East Mountain Sportsmen’s Club (EMSC) for over 50 years and an avid sportsman for over 60 years.  He is part of the EMSC youth mentoring program and has been a Mass Hunter Education Instructor for over 30 years. For over 25 years as a member of the EMSC he was instrumental in helping them put on the first youth pheasant hunt in MA.   He was a Boy Scout leader, an avid diver and a Navy vet.

 

 

 

 

 

Trout stocking

The following waters, which were subject to change, were scheduled to be stocked last week:  Green River (South) Alford and Egremont, Upper Clesson Brook in Ashfield and Buckland, South River in Ashfield, Swift River in Ashfield, Cummington and Goshen; West Branch of the Westfield River in Becket, Middlefield, Chester and Huntington; Deerfield River in Florida, Buckland and Charlemont; Yokum Brook in Becket, Chickley River in Hawley and Charlemont, Pelham Brook in Charlemont, West Branch Brook in Worthington and Chesterfield, Mill Brook in Cummington and Plainfield, Westfield Brook in Windsor and Cummington, Stones Brook in Goshen, Housatonic River (C&R) in Lee and Stockbridge, Factory Brook in Middlefield, Dunbar Brook in Monroe, Depot Brook in Washington, Bronson Brook in Worthington, Greenwater Pond in Becket, North Pond in Florida, Garfield Lake in Monterey, York Lake in New Marlborough, Otis Reservoir in Otis and Tolland, Big Pond in Otis and Pelham Lake in Rowe.

Initial Swift River study complete

The Swift River, located about 30 minutes from Springfield and 45 minutes from Worcester, is one of the most unique and popular trout fishing destinations in Massachusetts. Many anglers fish these cold, clear waters year-round thanks to the constant outflow from Quabbin Reservoir. The Swift tailwater is home to many wild brook trout which can grow to trophy size. In addition, anglers target stocked rainbow trout and stocked brown trout, which can sometimes reach massive size as holdovers from previous stocking seasons. For all its popularity, the dynamics of this exceptional fishery have not been well studied or understood. But that’s changing. After several years of observation, monitoring, and preliminary investigation, MassWildlife fisheries biologists have completed the first phase of research to learn about this unique stretch of river.

Based on feedback from anglers, the abundance of stocked trout in the river was not always meeting expectations relative to the quantity of trout being stocked there. In March 2021, MassWildlife launched a “mark-recapture” study to track the survival and movement of stocked trout over time. They were marked with small elastomer marks (tiny permanent hardened dye, similar to a tattoo) near their eye, with a color that corresponded to the month of their stocking. Adipose fins were clipped on fish stocked above Route 9; fins were left intact on trout stocked downstream. Each stocking group was surveyed with electrofishing gear one week, one month, and three months after stocking. The number and location of each marked fish was recorded.

The study was completed early this year and the results and future plans will be discussed by DFW Aquatic Biologists Brian Keleher and Adam Kautza at the May 5 meeting of the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen at the Lee Sportsmen’s Association at 565 Fairview St, Lee.  Starting at 7:00 pm, this discussion should be of special interest to local anglers.  The public is invited to sit in on the presentation and to meet our Berkshire County League delegates, our District Fish &Game Board member Stephen Sears, DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden and of course our guest speakers.

Eagerly awaiting the return of our friends

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Well, it won’t be long before our friends show up again.  Some of the Stones are already here and the Gordon’s will arrive shortly.  The Caddis’s are already here and the Hendrickson’s are probably here too.  They will be followed by the Foxes, Drakes, Cahills, Duns, Adams, Wulffs and others.

Aha!  I’ll bet the fly fishermen are already onto me.  They know that I am not writing about snowbirds returning from Florida but rather aquatic insects, the various mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies.

Two of the earliest aquatic insects to appear each year are the Little Black Stoneflies which are part of the Capniidae family (probably Allocapnia granulata) and Little Brown Stoneflies which are part of the Plecoptera family.   They crawl out of the water to the snowy bank edges to hatch and become adults. Different species of stoneflies hatch from early spring into the summer.  They are the Stones to which I referred above.  The Caddises mentioned are caddisflies from the family Trichoptera,

The Gordons, Hendricksons, Foxes, Drakes, Cahills, Duns, Wulffs and Adams are all mayflies. (Mayflies are aquatic insects belonging to the order Ephemeroptera).  The flies don’t just hatch out in May, but basically from April through October, depending on the species. The Gordon’s I referred to are usually known as Quill Gordon (Epeorus-Pleurali), probably the first major mayfly to hatch in our waters. They are followed by the Blue Duns/Blue Quills (Paraleptophlebia), Dark or Light Hendricksons (Ephemerella Subvaria), Grey Foxes (Stenonema Fuscum), Green Drakes (Ehemera Guttulata) Light Cahills (Stenenoma), Yellow Drakes (Ephemere Varia), Golden Drakes (Potamanthidae), Slate Gray Drakes (Isonychia) and others.

Over 3,000 species of mayflies in 42 families and over 400 genera are known worldwide, including about 630 species in North America. There are approximately 14,500 described species of caddisflies and 9 North American families of stoneflies with approximately 3,500 species (700 of them in North America north of Mexico).

Fly fishermen should not only know what the flying insect is, but what phase, sub-imago or imago as well as what their nymphal stage looks like.  Sub-imagos are called duns by anglers and the imagoes (or adult flies) are called spinners.  A good fly fisherman knows when each occurs and what they look like (color, size, characteristics, etc.). Mayflies morph from nymphs, hatch into duns and then morph again into spinners. In a way, fly fishermen have to be entomologists.

Certain aquatic insects live in different types of waters.  For example, the Green Drake, one of our largest mayflies, like slow moving, sandy or muddy waters, whereas others like stoneflies prefer just the opposite.  The successful fly fisherman needs to know this.

Obviously, all of this can be overwhelming to the beginning fly fisherman, but thanks to our predecessors, the numbers of families and species that are most common have been narrowed down considerably, so that we now know what species hatch in our areas and when they are in certain rivers and ponds.

To save money and for the enjoyment, many fly fishermen tie their own flies imitating the above aquatic insects and others such as dragonflies, damselflies, midges, etc.  They tie terrestrial insects which are also important foods for trout such as grasshoppers, beetles, crickets, etc.  They also tie imitations of crayfish, leeches, small fish (called streamers) etc.  Yes, they are called flies, too.

After seeing the scientific names for the aquatic insects, one can understand why anglers refer to their common names. Heck, many of us can’t even pronounce the scientific names. Besides, if we did use the scientific names, we would probably be labeled as elitists or snobs.

Many imitation flies such as the Quill Gordon, Hendrickson, Adams and Wulff patterns were actually named after their inventors or their friends.

For example, the Quill Gordon was designed by Theodore Gordon, an American writer who fished the Catskill region of New York State in the late 19th century through the early 20th century. He is often called the “father of the American school of dry fly fishing.

The Hendrickson was created in 1916 by Roy Steenrod.  One day he was fishing the Lower Beaverkill River in NY with his friend A. E. Hendrickson, and saw bugs popping off the water. Roy named the imitation fly after his buddy. Its body is comprised of “the urine-stained underbelly from a vixen red fox”.

The Adams fly was designed by Leonard Halladay from Mayfield, Michigan in 1922, at the request of his friend Charles Adams, an attorney and judge from Ohio who was an avid dry fly fisher.

Some flies were named after rivers such as the Ausable Wulff.  Now that’s an interesting fly.    It was created and tied by the late Francis Betters who lived on the banks of the Ausable River in Wilmington, NY. He designed his fly using a pattern created by the late legendary fly fisherman Lee Wulff. Its body calls for cinnamon colored Australian possum. Incidentally, it’s my favorite fly.

Another one of my favorites is the Gold Ribbed Hares Ear. The body of this fly is created from a course blend of underbody fur, along with the guard hairs from the ear of a rabbit.

An interesting streamer is called the Governor Weld.  (Pictured) The ingredients for constructing this fly are interesting:  It uses a #6, 3X hook which represents the governor’s height (6’3”).  The wing is matched strips of mottled wild turkey wing feather representing the official Massachusetts game bird which was signed into law by Governor Weld.  Wood duck flank feather is used for the shoulder to signify the Governor’s concern for waterfowl conservation.  A silver body is used to represent the bright future of Massachusetts under Governor Weld’s leadership.  Lastly, red thread is used to tie the fly and form the head, representing the Governor’s red hair.

All materials are common to New England and up-state New York where the Governor enjoyed many fishing adventures.

The fly was tied and created by Mike Freeman of Peabody, MA and Paul Nowak of Topsfield, MA. I have a beautiful framed print of it which was produced by Massachusetts artist Ed Snyder, owner of Outdoor Arts.  I don’t know what it is supposed to imitate. I haven’t caught many fish with this fly, but it is sure nice to look at.

The Mad River Special was created by the late legendary flyfisherman, Charles Lahey of Pittsfield.  He named the bucktail fly after the Mad River in Vermont, a river he loved to fish.  The last time he flyfished, at the age of 101, he caught 3 rainbow trout with that fly. Incidentally, Charlie was incorporated into the North American Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame in Hayward, WI in 2009.

Another interesting fly is named “The Butcher”.  It was created in England by G.S. Jewhurst of Tunbridge, Kent, UK. Originally, it was known as “Moon’s Fly,” after a Mr. Moon who was a butcher and tier. William Blacker renamed the fly “The Butcher” in 1838.  It was so deadly that it was banned in some rivers over there.

So, if you are a glutton for punishment, you might consider taking up the sport of flyfishing.  Everyone struggles with the casting aspect of it for a little while but most eventually get the hang of it. Don’t worry, you won’t make any mistakes that millions of others haven’t already made.  I took it up in my 40’s and the only regret that I have is that I didn’t take it up earlier.    It’s a fascinating sport which has provided me many years of great enjoyment.

Trout stockings

The following waters were scheduled to be stocked last week.  The schedule was subject to change: Hop Brook in Tyringham and Lee, Laurel Lake, Pontoosic Lake, Goose Pond, Onota Lake, Littleville Reservoir in Chester and Huntington, Green River – North in New Ashfield and Williamstown, Farmington River in Otis, Tolland and Sandisfield and Hemlock Brook in Williamstown.

Correction

In last week’s column I erroneously wrote that the spring turkey hunting season opened on April 25 and ends on May 22.  It should have stated that it ends on May 21.  Also, the youth turkey hunting day is today, not last Saturday as written.  My apologies.

MassWildlife winter bear studies yield interesting results

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MassWildlife Black Bear and Furbearer Biologist Dave Wattles informs us that every winter, MassWildlife biologists visit the dens of female black bears (sows), that have been previously fitted with radio tracking collars. Sows may be in their dens alone, with newborn cubs, or with yearling cubs born the previous winter. Biologists assess the condition of the bears, count the newborn cubs, and confirm the survival of the yearlings. These valuable data on survival and reproduction help biologists model whether black bear populations are growing, declining, or remaining stable.

Winter dens can be a hollow tree or log, rock crevice, or a ground nest under fallen trees or brush. Once they locate a den, biologists immobilize the sow and gather information such as body condition, weight, and sex of cubs. They also evaluate collars for proper fit and function and replace them when needed. This past winter, biologists visited 27 dens. Discoveries included one sow with no cubs, four two-year-old females wearing yearling collars, 10 females with yearlings, and 11 females with newborn cubs. Sows ranged in age from two to 16 years old.

Black bear cubs are born small, blind, and helpless. To give the mother a chance to bond with her cubs and for the cubs to grow, MassWildlife waits until the end of February before visiting dens of sows with newborns. The eleven females averaged 2.54 cubs, with one sow having 4 cubs.

photo provided by MassWildlife

Biologists are finding that the female bears 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 from this winter’s research 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.

Wild duck populations are declining

In a recent NY Dept of Environmental Conservation (DEC) newsletter entitled, Banding Together to Explain Declines in Eastern Mallards, it states that over the past 20 years, mallard populations in New York and the Northeast United States have declined significantly, leading to reduced bag limits starting in 2018. To understand what factors may be contributing to the decline, DEC, Pennsylvania Game Commission, Ducks Unlimited, SUNY Brockport, and the University of Saskatchewan partnered with 22 state, federal, and non-governmental organizations to start one of the largest telemetry projects ever conducted in North America. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a participant.

Over the next 4 years, states and provinces in the Atlantic Flyway will be putting out over 1,100 GPS transmitters on female mallards to learn more about habitat use and migration timing and how these factors affect breeding success and survival. In the first year, DEC and partners deployed over 300 transmitters. Each transmitter can send tens of thousands of locations for two or three years. This project will give biologists and researchers a glimpse of what drives mallard populations and will help better inform mallard management in the Atlantic Flyway for years to come.

You can follow along by visiting the project website ( ATLANTIC FLYWAY WATERFOWL TRACKING STUDIES – Home (weebly.com)). It includes an interactive map that is updated periodically so you can follow these birds through migration in near real-time.

Mallards are commonly found in wetlands and urban ponds in the Atlantic Flyway in the northeast US, but there has been a puzzling population level decline of 1% annually since 1998. In contrast, in Eastern Canada mallard populations are stable. Determining the drivers behind these different trajectories is the impetus for this project.

Some 273 mallards were already banded and deployed with 6 of them from Massachusetts.

Black ducks experienced a population decline of 50% in the 1950s -1980s and never recovered. Researchers still haven’t determined the mechanism behind the lack of recovery. Some 150 black ducks

photo provided by NY DEC

were already banded and deployed of which 8 of them were from Massachusetts.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza detected in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources has confirmed that HPAI has been detected in wild birds in multiple locations in Massachusetts and appears to be prevalent in at least some species of the wild bird population.  (Please note, I am not implying that HPAI is causing the decrease in numbers of the ducks noted above).

According to the MDAR, this means all domestic poultry in Massachusetts may be at risk of exposure to the virus, which can be fatal for birds like chickens and turkeys.

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.

Earlier this month, the owners of Pumpkin Wall Farm in Derry, New Hampshire, said about 80 of their birds were euthanized by state workers after five turkeys at the animal sanctuary suddenly died of the avian flu. Wild ducks carrying the virus landed in their pond and infected the flock, which meant the rest of the farm’s chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys then had to be put down.

The MDAR said waterbirds including shorebirds and waterfowl, especially dabbling ducks like Mallards, are most likely to carry the HPAI virus.

People who own chickens, turkeys and guinea fowl, and game birds like pheasants, are advised to keep waterbirds away from their domestic birds.  Owners of domestic birds are also advised to ensure that good biosecurity is being used to protect the animals, as owners and visitors may accidentally expose their birds to HPAI through contaminated shoes, clothing or equipment.

The MDAR said sick or dead domestic birds — chickens, turkeys, gamebirds, domestic ducks, etc. — should be reported to the department’s Division of Animal Health at 617-626-1795 or through an online reporting form that can be obtained at www.mass.gov/forms/poultry-disease-reporting-forms.  Sick or dead wild birds should also be reported to the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) by calling 508-389-6300 or by emailing Mass.Wildlife@mass.gov.

Public hearing coming up on Migratory Game Bird Hunting Season

The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at 10:00 am, regarding the 2022-2023 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons via a Zoom video webinar with the Hearing Officer, MassWildlife staff, and Board members.  The public is invited to join via computer or phone line. Instructions for how to join are listed on the MassWildlife web site.

The proposed regulatory amendments are posted on that web site so that interested persons can review them and provide written comments prior to the hearing and oral comments during the public-comment portion of the virtual hearing. The F&W Board must vote to approve the 2022-2023 migratory bird seasons at the close of the hearing. Therefore, there will be no written comment period after this public hearing.

Trout stocking

The following waters were scheduled to be stocked last week.  The schedule was subject to change: Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont, and Florida; the Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington; Konkapot River in Monterey and New Marlborough, Hoosic River in Cheshire and Adams, Farmington River in Otis, Sandisfield and Tolland; Housatonic River (C&R) in Stockbridge and Lee, Greenwater Pond in Becket, Mansfield Pond in Great Barrington, Laurel Lake, Goose Pond, Lake Garfield in Monterey, Big Pond in Otis, Windsor Lake in North Adams and Onota Lake.

Hunter Safety Courses

I have been receiving calls inquiring when the next hunter safety course will be held in the Berkshires.  None are listed at this time on the MassWildlife web site.   The closest class that I could find that wasn’t already filled was at the Worthington Rod & Gun Club, 458 Dingle Road (Rte. 112) in Worthington.  It is a 4-day course – April 18, 19, 21 and 22 from 5:30 to 9:00 pm each night.  To enroll, call (508)389-7820 and press 0 for an attendant.

Trout stocking scheduled to begin soon  

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MassWildLife reports that approximately 500,000 brook, brown, rainbow, and tiger trout will be stocked this spring from its five hatcheries located in Sandwich, Palmer, Belchertown, Sunderland, and Montague. The Western District, should receive about 20% of them.  Stocking in the southeastern waters will begin any day now with other regions of the state following soon after as weather conditions allow. The stockings should run to around Memorial Day.

picture provided by MassWildlife

 

2022 spring trout stocking stats:

  • Most of the trout will be over 12 inches
  • More than 160,000 rainbow trout will be over 14 inches
  • More than 50,000 brook trout will be over 12 inches, including 550 brookies that will be over 18+ inches or retired brood fish
  • More than 52,000 brown trout will be over 12 inches, including nearly 1,000 of them measuring 18+ inches and retired brood fish
  • More than 3,000 tiger trout will be over 14 inches

 

Bobcat and coyote hunting ended last week

 

Well, the various small and big game hunting seasons are over – at least until April 23 when the Wild Turkey Youth Hunt kicks off the new season.

Some interesting facts about coyotes were recently noted in an article by the NY Department of Conservation (DEC) entitled You Make My Heart Howl!  Here are some excerpts with minor alterations which would make the recommendations applicable to Massachusetts:

Picture taken and provided by Mark Thorne

It is currently breeding season for area coyotes.   Did you know that coyotes are monogamous and form long-term pair bonds? Research shows coyotes are remarkably faithful to their mates, typically remaining together until the death of one of the pair.

During this time of the year, coyotes are especially active as they mate and begin to set up dens for pups that will arrive in the spring. They also tend to be more territorial, which can lead to more conflicts with people and pets. Following simple steps like those listed below can help humans and coyotes coexist peacefully:

  • Do not feed coyotes.
  • Do not leave food outside. Pet food, bird seed, compost, and garbage attract coyotes and other wildlife and increase risks to people and pets.
  • Do not allow coyotes to approach people or pets. If you see a coyote, be aggressive in your behavior: stand tall and hold your arms up or out to look as large as possible. If a coyote lingers for too long, make loud noises, wave your arms, and throw sticks and stones.
  • Teach children to appreciate coyotes from a distance.
  • Do not allow pets to run free. Small dogs and cats are especially vulnerable.
  • Fence yards to deter coyotes.
  • Remove brush and tall grass from around homes to reduce protective cover for coyotes.

Remember, seeing a coyote occasionally throughout the year is not a cause for concern. However, if a coyote is exhibiting bold behavior and has little or no fear of people, contact your district office of MassWildlife.  In emergency situation, contact the local police department.

New regulations proposed that Berkshire Waterfowlers will like

In the March meeting of the Fisheries and Wildlife Board, Michael Huguenin, DFW Assistant Director of Wildlife made several proposals regarding waterfowl hunting. One proposal which will be of special interest to local goose hunters is that the regular goose hunting season in the Berkshires would be extended.  If approved, it would provide a late season for regular goose hunting.  It would open on December 15 and run until February 15, with a five-bird bag limit similar to the seasons that the Central and Coastal Districts currently enjoy.

Currently in the Berkshire District, the regular goose hunting season opens on October 10 and runs until November 14.  That’s because we have a 30-day goose hunting season with a two-bird bag limit whereas the rest of Massachusetts has a 60-day season.  The reason is because some of the goose migration flyway out of Labrador and Newfoundland goes through our area and not further east.  After years of analysis, it is felt that the migration is usually pretty much ended by December 15 so there would be little or no effect on it.  The proposal does not violate any Federal restrictions or regulations.

The late season hunt should reduce the number of geese that stay year-round, thus reducing some of their negative impacts.

There were also other recommendations dealing with the sea duck regulations which don’t affect too many Berkshire waterfowlers.

The Board voted to bring the proposals to a public meeting at a time TBA.

Outdoor sportsmen saddened by the loss of Leo M. Daly

Leo M. Daly of Pittsfield, MA passed away on February 29 at the age of 92.

He joined the MA DFW in 1956 where he served in its Central District for 12 years.  While working there he built and ran its district laboratory.

In 1968, he transferred to the Western District (WD) Headquarters as Fisheries Manager where he remained until 1998.  He spent a total of 42 years with the DFW.  During his time with the WD, he held the titles of Aquatic Biologist, Fisheries Manager, and interim District Manager. In the 30 years spent in the WD, he stocked over 1.5 million trout in Western Massachusetts waters.  He was involved in a variety of Catch and Release Programs for the State.

He was also in charge of the Northern Berkshire Paraplegic Deer Hunt for 22 years.  He received awards such as Outstanding Dedication, Service Protection and Managing the Commonwealth’s Fisheries and Wildlife Resources.  He was the recipient of the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen’s 1997 Lifetime Achievement Award.  In his award application, the following was written about him, “Leo has committed his life to a pursuit that has benefitted generations of Berkshire County fishermen.”

Turkey/Ham Shoots have started

The spring turkey shoots have already begun at the Lee Sportsmen’s Association.  They started on March 6 and will continue on the following Sundays leading up to Easter.  Prizes include: NY Strip steaks, turkeys, pork loins, and spiral hams.  Cost: $3/shot-meat, $3/shot-money shoot.  Contact John Polastri at (413) 822-8278 with any questions.

Starting Sunday March 20 at 1:00 PM, the Lenox Sportsmen’s Club will be also offering 22LR shoots and pie shoots.  Bring your Shotguns for 12-16-20 & 410 gauges go home with an Easter Ham.    Shells provided.  Its kitchen will be open for burgers, hotdogs and “maybe a few surprises”.  For more information contact Lorenzo Marangoni: 413-822-7412.

Ham shoots have also started at the Cheshire Sportsmen’s Club, also on Sundays running up to Easter. March 27, April 3, April 10 – Starting each Sunday at 1 p.m. $3/per shot.  Bring your Shotguns for 12-16-20 & 410 gauges, shells provided.

For those readers who don’t already know, no, they don’t shoot turkeys or pigs.  They compete at shooting at targets and the winners are rewarded with a frozen turkey, ham, etc.  Don’t laugh, people have asked me about this over the years.

Gun Safety Course

 

Pete’s Gun Shop is holding a one-day LIVE FIRE NRA & Massachusetts State Police Certified LTC Safety Course. The course consists of classroom instruction followed by live firing.  This will be a one day all inclusive, live fire class on Sunday, March 20 at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club at 9:00 AM.  This is to qualify MA residents and non-residents alike for the MA License To Carry or FID Card.

 

Interested parties should 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 don’t dilly-dally.  A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your seat at the time of registration. They do accept credit cards in person or by phone.

 

This is a live fire class where they spend time at the range and you get to shoot. You will also get a $10 gift certificate to Pete’s Gun Shop in appreciation for taking the course. The cost is $100 and covers use of the range firearms, ammo, safety gear, class materials, certificates, and the NRA Safety Textbook.

 

Silvio O. Conte Sportsmen’s Awards Dinner resumes this April

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In the spring of 2020, the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) named individuals who would be receiving awards at its upcoming Silvio O. Conte Memorial “Sportsman of the Year” awards dinner.  April 25th of that year was the date selected for the dinner but then came COVID-19.  Because of that, there were no awards dinners for the years 2020 and 2021.

This year, because many restrictions have been lifted, the League chose April 23 to have the dinner. The award winners will be those people chosen in 2020.  To refresh everyone’s memory, I am reprinting the January 12, 2020 column article listing the 2019 winners.

 

The late Chris Puntin, formerly of Pittsfield, will receive the 2019 Sportsman of the Year Award posthumously

Unfortunately, Chris lost his life in a hunting accident in 2019 while helping out at the Youth Turkey Hunt.  He was an avid hunter and fisherman.  He was the local chairman of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and served on its State Board.   For many years he was a mentor for the youth turkey hunts and was a key organizer at the NWTF fund raisers.  He helped in trout stockings and was a member of the Snow Seekers (tending snow mobile trails on October Mountain).  He helped on the “Buddy Walks” by driving the tractor for its hayrides in Dalton (The Buddy Walk® was established in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness) and he volunteered as its “grill person”.

To quote words from Andrew Madden, DFW Western District Supervisor, “Chris was well known to us. He was very active with the NWTF, a Paraplegic Deer Hunt volunteer for MassWildlife, and a good friend to the Agency and the District.”

 

Meredyth Babcock of Becket will receive the 2019 Outstanding Achievement Award

Meredyth is the Volunteer and Projects Coordinator for the Wild and Scenic (W/S) Westfield River Committee.  As Coordinator, she partners with communities, municipal officials, conservation organizations and Federal and State agencies to manage the Westfield River and maintain the health of the entire watershed for nearby and downstream communities.

She is also helping out with the Highlands Foot Passage and is slowly working toward improving the East Branch Trail.

 

The W&S Committee engages layers of community members by targeting outreach efforts, messages and activities through a combination of mailings, outreach materials, workshops, hikes, public programs, and Stream Team trainings. The goal of these efforts is to provide effective tools and share expertise to encourage long-term protection, restoration and conservation of the Westfield River and its resources.  In addition, they offer grants, technical assistance, and river project reviews to help landowners, communities and organizations promote river stewardship.

 

The Becket-Washington School did 5 years of a Stream Explorer Program where for 6 weeks Meredyth went after school hours and basically walked the river, called the “Walking the River Roads.”  They also did “Teen River Clean” where the W&S Committee hired teenagers to go to areas where they had seen garbage and they cleaned it up.  The Committee didn’t pay them but rather granted scholarships for helping out.

Stephanie Dupont of Pittsfield will receive the 2019 Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award

Stephanie moved to the Berkshires with her husband Eric and 3 children in the fall of 2014 and joined the Lee Sportsmen’s Association (LSA) in 2015.  Since joining LSA, Stephanie and Eric have made sure that their children have been pre-eminent members of the Air2Spare Jr. air pistol team as well as the youth shotgun and archery programs.  They have also participated in the LSA’s fishing derbies, clean-up days, fund raisers and hunts.  Stephanie has become a vital part of the day-to-day operations of the club as a Board Member, member of the Fundraising Committee, a member of the Youth Programs Committee and grant writer.  She is also in charge of the day-to-day operations and communications of the club.  She is Assistant Coach of the High Caliber 22 Bullseye Pistol Team, started the Summers Ladies Night Fun Shoot Program, and wrote a bi-weekly column for the Berkshire Record.  Working with youth in fund raising, she is instrumental in the continued success and growth of the LSA

Donald E. Girard of Adams will receive the 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award

Don has been a scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop #38 in Adams.  He has been instrumental in leading the youth in appreciation and preservation of our environment. With the involvement of several assistant leaders Don saw the advancement of over 75 youths to Eagle Scout.  They attained rank by earning badges for community projects such as reclaiming “Hail to the Sunrise” on the Mohawk Trail, beautifying the Adams Memorial Military Park, Appalachian Trail, and building of a bridge over water hazards, Throughout Don’s tenure of leader/instructor, many of the Troop’s youth gained an appreciation of the great outdoors. The troop planted numerous trees on Pfizer property and Florida Mountain property to enhance and preserve the forest, and planted Christmas trees as a sustainable fund-raising project for the Troop.  The youth of the Troop also cleared and maintained many hiking trails including land abutting Windsor Lake in North Adams and Camp Holy Cross in Goshen.  He taught gun safety and marksmanship at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club and at summer camps at Goshen. He also helped out in the Cub Scout fishing derbies.

Gregg Armstrong of North Adams, will receive the 2019 John Zuber Award

Gregg has been a member of the East Mountain Sportsmen’s Club (EMSC) for over 50 years and an avid sportsman for over 60 years.  He is part of the EMSC youth mentoring program and has been a Mass Hunter Education Instructor for over 30 years. For over 25 years as a member of the EMSC he was instrumental in helping them put on the first Youth Pheasant Hunt in MA.  When anything that had to do with youth programs, he was always the first to step up.  He was a Boy Scout leader, an avid diver and a Navy vet.  He also loved being out with his bird dogs.

The above awards will be presented at the BCLS Silvio O. Conte Memorial Awards Dinner at the Cheshire Rod and Gun Club, 310 Curran Road, Cheshire on Saturday evening April 23.   The social hour begins at 4:30 with dinner at 6:00 PM. Tickets, which cost $40, can be obtained from any BCLS delegate.   If you need help in contacting a delegate, please contact me at the address or phone number listed below.

Ice fishing derby winners

Congratulations to the following winners at the recent Cheshire Rod & Gun Club Ice Fishing Derby which was held on Cheshire Lake last weekend:  The adult winner was Asher Hotson of Lenox with a 16 lbs. 8 oz, 43-inch northern pike. As a reward, he went home with an Eskimo Quickfish 3- Person Ice Shelter and an 8-inch K-Drill Ice Auger.

The youth winners were:  Danny Collins with a 3 lbs. 11 oz bass, Nate Mallett with a 2 lbs. 15 oz bass and Traylen Deblois with a 1.15 lbs. bass.

 

Congratulations to all!

Bald Eagles are everywhere

Just about every ice fisherman that I’ve spoken with this winter has seen bald eagles on the lakes they fished.  If you want to see one, follow these guidelines from MassWildlife:

  • Eagles are drawn to open waters. As many lakes and ponds freeze, there are fewer areas of open waters which may make eagles easier to find.
  • Eagles often gather below dams, if water is being released.
  • If you see an eagle once, visit that site again. Eagles tend to return to the same section of shoreline or even the same tree throughout the season and year after year.
  • Look for large nests in big trees. Massachusetts is home to over 70 nesting pairs. If you do spot a nest, keep your distance and observe from afar.
  • If you do see an eagle, watching with binoculars from inside your vehicle is a great way to observe the birds without disturbing them and you’ll stay warm.

 

Rabbit, fox seasons ending

The cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare and fox hunting seasons end on Monday, February 28. Now the bald eagles and that famous snowy owl that has been hanging around the Berkshires this winter can have all of the bunnies to themselves.

picture taken by Mark Thorne