Angler input requested regarding cessation of stocking in the Upper Deerfield River

Posted on October 16, 2024 by Gene

MassWildlife has been approached to pause the stocking of trout in the Catch and Release area to give wild brown trout, which are not native in the proponent’s opinion, a better chance for survival. Others propose keeping the stocking as it has a major impact on the well being of many people who fish there and have businesses that depend on the success of the anglers. As a result, two public listening sessions regarding the management of trout in the Upper Deerfield River will be held via Zoom type platform on October 17, one at 1:00 p.m., the other at 6:00 p.m. It is important that all constituents participate so that the Fish & Wildlife Board gets as broad as possible opinions.

This subject was presented to the F&W Board back in March of this year. Apparently, it feels it is warranted to have a further discussion.

I contacted Attorney Kevin Parsons, one of the presenters at the session, regarding his concerns about stocking over a significant wild trout population in the Upper Deerfield River (defined as from Route 2 bridge near Mohawk Park in Charlemont up to Fife Dam…..being about 7.5 miles of river). His response was as follows:

“The compelling reason why the stocking needs to stop ASAP is to enable the gathering of additional science to support even better flow regime enhancements when the Great River license comes up for renewal in 2037… yet that process starts in 2031-2032. At that time those who care about river ecology need to be prepared with science to demonstrate there is a need for additional studies which could be paid for by the license renewal applicant.” (Great River owns 4 facilities on the Deerfield upriver of Brookfield Power, and two below.)

“What I learned as a lead negotiator for the Deerfield River TU Chapter in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) relicensing of the Brookfield license over the last 10 years was unless you have science in hand to prove impact, FERC will thumb its nose at advocates request for more studies as there is no proven impact.” (Brookfield Power owns the Fife Dam and Bear Swamp Pump Storage)

“In our case we proved the current Brookfield hydropeaking operations were having a substantial impact on the spawning effort. This proved to be the deciding factor in our ability to secure winter flows we got from Brookfield from 125 cfs to 225 cfs. (Cubic feet of water per second). Although Brookfield has limited ability to mitigate winter flow deficiencies, Great River on the other hand has plenty of water in the upper reservoirs to have an even greater impact on river ecology. However, we need to show how the minimum flow enhancements are having on the wild fishery….and then make the case for even better winter flows. With the known impacts of stocked fish on the wild fish population, this science is impossible with so many stocked fish among the wild fishery. It is common sense that the thousands of fish being dumped into the Upper River are eating wild fry and young of year fish.”

“Fish biologists have informed us at least three years assessment of the wild fishery (free of stocking) must be conducted prior to the anticipated increase in minimum winter flows. Then 3-4 years after the enhanced flows. Then we will know for sure what the wild fishery is and whether or not it will prove itself to be as substantial as we believe it will be…if the stocking stops and the flows are such that wild fish recruitment rebounds with the winter flows covering the redds.”

“The story is not whether pellet raised fish are good for anglers. It is about whether we can gather the science over the next 7 years or so to demonstrate that we have a wild fishery warranting protection. We believe without stocking the wild fishery will, even without the flow adjustments, take hold. And then with the negotiated minimum flow enhancements it will even become what we believe is an amazing wild fishery that we all could be proud of having in our back yard. It already exists in the Dry Way just upriver of the Brookfield impoundment so why not in this 7-mile section?”

“A Trout Unlimited study review of over 110 international studies on stocking over wild and native fisheries was clear…. it is bad. Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine anglers have resoundedly supported the enhancement of wild and native fisheries. Massachusetts is the only New England state that does not have a wild fish management policy. Vermont does and 75% of the anglers up there supported the cessation of stocking over known significant wild/native fisheries. With Massachusetts biodiversity policy and mandate from MassWildlife recently adopted, this fits right in to that effort. Stocking over wild fish does not.”

I reached out to MassWildlife to comment on this matter. Their response was, “MassWildlife considers the Deerfield River to be one of the most important cold-water fisheries in the state. It is a premier destination for anglers throughout Massachusetts and New England. Trout fishing in the Deerfield has become a year-round activity supporting several guide services and bringing business to rural Franklin County communities.”

“The river and surrounding watershed also benefit from passionate advocacy from anglers and other conservationists who care deeply about the resource. MassWildlife’s current management of the upper Deerfield River includes the stocking of rainbow trout to supplement a low-density but sustainable wild brown trout fishery.”

Recognizing the importance of the Deerfield River fishery to the broader angling public, the F&W Board is seeking feedback on this request at the two above mentioned public listening sessions.

Currently, MassWildlife stocks 12–16” rainbow trout throughout the Deerfield River including in the upper reach below Fife Brook Dam. Stocked rainbow trout are incredibly popular with anglers in the Deerfield River, as volunteer angler surveys indicate that rainbow trout represent 69% of the catch in the upper Deerfield. These fish have long been a target of recreational anglers of all levels looking for a tailwater fishing experience. Eliminating rainbow stocking would have a significant impact on the quality of angling.”

“MassWildlife biologists have been closely studying the upper Deerfield since 2019, assessing the fish community, including stocked and wild reproducing brown trout. MassWildlife has seen no evidence to indicate predation or competition between stocked rainbow trout and wild brown trout in the upper Deerfield. MassWildlife’s fisheries community assessments show ample food resources including invertebrates available for stocked rainbows to eat. This abundance of available prey and habitat makes direct competition for food or space with wild brown trout unlikely.”

“As a result, MassWildlife expects that halting the stocking of rainbow trout would offer minimal ecological advantages for wild brown trout while significantly reducing the quality of the fishing experience for many anglers.”

“MassWildlife is committed to continuing to use research and the best available science to inform its management decisions, including when, where, and how the Deerfield River is stocked in the future.”

So there you have it. Instructions for joining the session can be found by visiting Mass.gov/dfw/calendar.

Fall Trout Stocking

The fall stocking of trout should be completed by this weekend. The following waters should have been stocked: Stockbridge Bowl, Onota Lake, Pontoosuc Lake, Lake Buel, Goose Pond, Laurel Lake, North Pond, Windsor Lake, Windsor Pond, Otis Reservoir, Richmond Pond, Ashfield Lake, and the Deerfield River. We still need some serious rain to raise the water level in the East Branch of the Westfield River, and if we don’t get it, then it is doubtful that it will be stocked this fall.

Hunting seasons opening this upcoming week

The regular goose hunting season in the Berkshires opens on October 14 and runs through November 16. It shuts down through the shotgun deer hunting season and then reopens December 11 through December 14.

Pheasant hunting season opens on October 19 and runs to December 31. Ruffed Grouse (partridge) season opens on October 19 and runs to November 30. Cottontail rabbit and snowshoe hare hunting seasons open on October 19 and end on February 28, 2025.

F&W Board elections

The Fish & Wildlife Board conducted its annual officer elections at its October 2 Meeting. By unanimous vote the following were chosen: Stephen Sears of Dalton, was re-elected Chairman, Emma Ellsworth of Orange was elected Vice Chair replacing Robert Durand of Marlborough, who decided to step down. Ernest Foster of Scituate was re-elected Secretary.

What is the MA DER and what does it do?

Posted on October 7, 2024 by Gene

The Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) is a division of the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game within the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. DER was created in 2009 with the merger of the Riverways and Wetlands Restoration Programs (formally within the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management). DER coordinates ecological restoration to improve ecological condition and to restore important ecosystem services that improve the quality of life for all Massachusetts citizens.

DER helps restore and protect rivers, wetlands, and watersheds in Massachusetts for the benefit of people and the environment. DER works with partners from municipalities, nonprofits, government agencies, and other organizations to accomplish its restoration goals. Some benefits and accomplishments in 2023, as detailed in its Annual Report, are as follows:

Storm Protection & Reduced Flood Risk

DER’s ecological restoration work protects communities by increasing climate resilience through storm protection and reduced flood risk. Along the coast, DER restores wetlands and salt marshes, which provide a natural barrier to storms by absorbing flood waters and decreasing wave energy, protecting nearby communities. In the western part of the state, Massachusetts experienced severe flooding in the summer and fall of 2023, which resulted in undersized culverts unfortunately contributing to road flooding and failures. DER’s Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance (CRMA) Grant Program helps municipalities replace undersized and deteriorated culverts with larger and more resilient structures. Installing culverts that meet the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards allows rivers to flow unrestricted and lowers the risk of flood damage.

Healthy Infrastructure & Public Safety

Many municipalities are confronted with aging and deteriorating culverts and dams, paired with increasing costs to maintain them. DER’s Dam Removal and Stream Continuity Programs work with partners to remove dams and replace undersized and deteriorating culverts with those that meet the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards. This work improves public safety and helps municipalities address rising maintenance costs. Although replacing culverts with structures that meet these standards involves more up-front cost, it is less expensive over the lifespan of the structure than inaction or in-kind replacements.

Biodiversity

Creating free-flowing, healthy rivers and wetlands not only benefits our communities, but also improves habitat to support diverse and rare species found throughout the Commonwealth. In 2023, the Healey-Driscoll Administration helped prioritize and bring awareness to this by signing an Executive Order to develop new biodiversity goals for a nature-positive future. Ecological restoration supports biodiversity by revitalizing habitats for a variety of wildlife, including many endangered and threatened plant, fish, and animal species.

Recreational Opportunities

DER’s restoration projects often result in new natural areas for the public to enjoy or improvements to existing conservation land. This work also improves public safety at many of these sites. Massachusetts has many beautiful natural spaces and continuing to restore rivers, wetlands, and watersheds will ensure future generations can enjoy them.

In 2023, they were involved in the following:

Projects:

11 projects under construction
3 projects completed
66 Priority Projects in planning, design, permitting, or construction

Infrastructure:

3 dams removed in Braintree and Bridgewater
3 culverts upgraded in Ashfield, Plymouth, and Washington

Benefits

2 river miles reconnected
40 acres of freshwater wetlands restored
594 acres of river herring spawning habitat now accessible

In the last five years, DER has doubled in size, and has rapidly expanded its restoration programs in response to the demand for assistance. Now, DER is restructuring its programs to better meet the restoration needs of municipalities, non-profit organizations, and landowners. As a young agency, DER is building a solid operational foundation that will serve the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and its partners for many years to come.

DER is excited for all that’s coming in 2024, including some of these anticipated activities:

It will issue its annual Request for Responses for municipalities that want to upgrade undersized or failing culverts through the Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance (CRMA) Grant Program.
It will expand the Regional Restoration Partnerships Program by issuing a new request for responses to establish new Restoration Partnerships.
It will continue to oversee over 50 active projects as part of the Priority Projects Program. In addition, DER intends to issue a request for responses to award Priority Project status to new projects, making them eligible for support from DER in the form of grant eligibility, technical assistance, and contracted technical services.
It will complete preliminary design studies for seven potential dam removal projects. DER awarded $350,000 to support these studies in December 2023.
It will begin preliminary design studies to replace near-coastal waterway crossings (such as culverts or bridges) that are expected to be impacted by sea-level rise and increased storm surge due to climate change. Addressing this type of crossing presents a new set of challenges.
It issued a Request for Responses to identify potential project locations in need of preliminary studies in 2023 and anticipates selecting sites in 2024.
It anticipates completing construction on at least seven cranberry bog restoration, dam removal, wetland restoration, and culvert replacement projects.

Youth Outreach Derby

On June 1, some 25 youths and their families attended the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen’s (BCLS) Youth Outreach Fishing Event this year at Reynolds Pond in Cheshire. This year’s group was from the Pediatric Palliative Care Program, part of Hospice Care in the Berkshires which is sponsored by the Department of Public Health. It is a separate program from Hospice Care for kids who have life limiting health conditions.

The program is about giving the kids and their families a quality of life. They provide nursing, social work, spiritual counselling, art therapy, music therapy and other therapies. The siblings get to benefit from them as well because they do family events. “Most of the kids get their medical care at Boston Children’s Hospital. They have nurses who come to their homes and talk about what’s going on and discusses plans for doctor events. They have social workers who help connect the families to all of the resources that are available to them such as social security, mental disability services, fuel assistance, housing, anything to help the families.

Picture provided by Gene Chague

The kids, along with their parents and grandparents, were eager to attend and learn how to fish at Reynolds Pond. Most never have been fishing before and it was a brand new experience for them. It was such a great way for kids and families to connect outside of school. These kids had a ball and were in their element.

The BCLS was more than happy to provide comfort to these kids that are medically challenged. There was a wide variety of kids, some were in wheelchairs – and kids who look like any other kids but with conditions that may very well limit their lifespans. Kids with seizure disorders, with cancer, and all kinds of different challenges.

Reynolds Pond was stocked and the kids were guaranteed that they would catch fish. And boy did they! For a change, the fish cooperated and they caught lots of good- sized brook trout, keeping the fish cleaning volunteers quite busy.

Youth hauling in an old shoe. Picture taken by Gene Chague

Each kid was given a fishing pole and equipment with which to fish and when the day was over, they were able to take them along with their trout home. Their equipment was all set up by volunteers by the time they arrived and they were provided with the necessary bait. Around noon time, a meal of burgers, dogs, chips, drinks and desert was provided.

The BCLS annually sponsors the event with significant grants from the local chapter of Whitetails Unlimited. They provided the brook trout (which were raised in the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery), equipment, bait, and food. Volunteers from the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club, East Mountain Sportsmen’s Club, Adams Outdoor for Youth, B.A.S.S., Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Berkshire Beagle Club and Pittsfield Sportsmen’s Club assisted.

God bless the kids, their families and many thanks to the sportsmen and women who provided them with such an enjoyable and memorable day.

Firearm course just for women

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club is offering a MA firearm license course for women only on Saturday, June 29. The course will run from 9:00 AM until 2:30 PM. The fee is $ 160.00 which includes eye and ear protection that they keep. Live fire is included.

For more information, email Robert at robmcdermott@verizon.net.

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

Posted on September 25, 2024 by Gene

Kudos to the Massachusetts Wildfire Crew

A crew of Massachusetts wildfire fighters recently returned from a 14-day assignment on the Flat Fire protecting values at risk in Pioneerville, Idaho. The crew included 18 members from the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and 3 members of the MassWildlife fire team. Two of the MassWildlife staff were from the Western District. Nate Buckhout (Western District Wildlife Biologist) and Heather Sadler (Western District Wildlife Technician) joined Benjamin Mazzei (Westboro Habitat Biologist) on the deployment.

They left on August 11 and returned home on August 27. While there, they camped on a dirt airstrip in Idaho City (population of about 485), about 1 ½ hours north of Boise, Idaho. They slept right on the dirt runway.

There weren’t that many firefighters when they first arrived, but the number eventually grew to 350+ firefighters. The camp grew from a couple of tents to a point where there were caterers, a tractor trailer with 16 showers, a finance office, a medical logistics, etc. The temperatures were very hot (mid 90’s) but it cooled a little toward the end of the assignment.

The workdays were around 16 hours. They got up at 5:30 am, ate dinner around 10:00 pm and were in bed by 11:00 pm. One day they had to stay longer because the fire jumped over the fire line and they ended up fighting it in the dark.

It usually took one to 1 ½ hours to get to the fire because they had to travel very slowly on winding logging roads. Fortunately, no one in their group got injured. They had a good group of people who knew what they were dealing with and helped those that did not.

All the Massachusetts men and women firefighters worked as a Type 2 Initial Attack Team working with hand tools to build fire lines and contain active fires. The group broke into smaller squads to meet specific objectives depending on the day’s assignment.

“We got thrown into everything.” Said Buckhout. They were put into a spike camp (remote camp with less amenities). There they set up their tents while others drove food up from down below. At the spike camp, there was no cell service, no showers, and only a couple of bath rooms.

When they arrived the fire was less than 10% contained but when they left it was 60% controlled which was great because there were other big fires nearby blowing up. Their fire wasn’t a relatively big fire compared to others, but because of the location as to communities and type of areas it was a concern. It was maybe 3,800 acres at its largest, but there was a 40,000 acre fire north of them in an 80,000 acre wilderness area.

Other than the Massachusetts crew, there were no other firefighters there from the east. Most of the assisting firefighters came from Colorado, Wyoming, Utah or California. The Idaho warden who was in charge called them out and said that he would ask for them by name the next time. They left with a good impression with all the different divisions with whom they worked.

The smoke wasn’t great. The worst part was the dust, because it was so dry, and the altitude, hiking those hills. When you stepped anywhere, there was a cloud of dust. When driving, there was so much dust from the vehicle in front, they had to let it clear so that could see.

They felt like they were doing something that mattered. As much as it was realy tough, it was a great experience and they would do it again.

Being able to work with DCR they saw a different perspective. They were all just one, not DCR or DFW. It was a very positive experience working with DCR and they made good friends.

The assignment was particularly arduous, said MassWildlife District Manager Andrew Madden, but the crew gained valuable experience which will be applied to MassWildlife’s prescribed fire program.

It was a good year for land protection in the Western District

That’s according to Andrew Madden. He gave delegates the good news at the September meeting of the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen which was held on September 5 at the Lee Sportsmen’s Association..

During the period from July 2023 to June 2024 the following projects were completed:

Shales Brook Wildlife Management Area (WMA) – Becket – A 73-acre gift of land off Tyringham Road abutting the existing WMA.

Savoy WMA -Savoy – A 4-acre acquisition on Harrington Road surrounded by the existing WMA. The project improves access and prevents development which would reduce land available for hunting.

Green River WMA – Williamstown – 100 acres abutting the existing WMA. The property includes frontage along the green river and quality forest on the uplands.

Edge Hill Wildlife Conservation Easement (WCE) – Ashfield – This 132-acre Conservation Easement is held in partnership with the Franklin Land Trust. The property (a former golf course) is open to the public and available for hunting.

Hiram Fox WMA – A 50-acre forested inholding accessible from the existing WMA.

Karner Brook WMA – 18 acres with stream frontage that expands on the existing WMA.

Eugene Moran WMA – 42 acres on Cheshire Road that expands access to the existing WMA.

Assuming that all dwelling and road set back requirements and WMA regulations are complied with, all of the above WMA and WCE lands are open to hunting, fishing, trapping and other outdoor recreational activities.

For maps and locations visit https://www.mass.gov/how-to/masswildlife-lands viewer.

Huge trout caught at the Hatchery Kid’s Derby

According to Dave Ziegler, the Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery Board Chairman and official fish measurer, there were 18 entrants into the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery Kid’s Derby which was held in Hartsville/New Marlborough last Saturday morning. It was a derby for youths under 13 years of age.

Boy! Did they catch some whoppers! Vance LaBonte of Litchfield, CT took first prize with a 22-inch brook trout, estimated to weigh between 3 ½ to 4 lbs. Jackson Broderick of Pittsfield took second place with a 21-inch rainbow trout. Trever Daley of Lee took third place with a 13-inch rainbow.

Vance LaBonte. Picture provided by Gene Chague

These derbies don’t normally yield such large trout, but the Hatchery folks decided to liberate some of their larger fish as they were getting old and nearing the end of their life spans.

Fall trout stocking should begin soon

MassWildlife will soon stock approximately 73,750 trout. About 27,000 rainbow trout over 14 inches, just over 40,200 rainbow trout over 12 inches, and about 6,500 brown trout over 12 inches will be stocked across Massachusetts this fall. These fish, along with the 455,000 trout that were stocked in the spring, should provide for some great fall fishing. Fall stocking season will begin around the last full week in September depending on water temperatures and will conclude in mid-October.

Local fall trout stockings are usually conducted in Stockbridge Bowl, Onota Lake, Lake Buel, Goose Pond, Laurel Lake, North Pond, Windsor Lake, Windsor Pond, Otis Reservoir, Richmond Pond, Ashfield Lake, and the Deerfield River. We’ll have to see if water conditions are sufficient to stock the East Branch of the Westfield River. We need some rain to raise the water level.

Once stocking begins, visit mass.gov/Trout for a stocking report that is updated daily.

Habitat Management Grants Available

Private and municipal landowners of conserved lands can apply for grant funding to support active habitat management projects that benefit wildlife and enhance outdoor recreation opportunities. Grant applications are due by October 17, 2024. Visit the MHMGP webpage time to learn more about the application process and to see examples of funded projects. For general questions about the grant program, contact James Burnham, Program Coordinator.

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

Posted on August 13, 2024 by Gene

An Act Modernizing Firearm Laws

In announcing the passage of the above Act, Governor Healey wrote that this legislation updates our firearms laws in response to the Supreme Court’s misguided Bruen decision, that it cracks down on ghost guns and 3-D printed weapons, bans firearms in additional public spaces like schools, polling places and government buildings. It expands the 2018 “red flag” law to allow school administrators and licensed health care providers to petition a court to temporarily take firearms away from someone deemed a threat to themselves or others. It also includes new penalties for possession, creation and transfer of untraceable guns. Some of those components of the law are things that hunters and target shooters could support, but, unfortunately, it doesn’t stop there.

The following is based upon interpretations by the Gun Owner’s Action League (GOAL), the Massachusetts Conservation Alliance, the Sportsmen’s Alliance and others. Please bear in mind new interpretations are coming in daily.

There will be a complete prohibition for MA Firearms ID (FID) card holders, regardless of age, from owning, possessing, purchasing or transferring rifles and shotguns that are large capacity or semi-automatic (even rimfire) firearms. Hunters will be allowed to hunt with semi-automatic shotguns if they have a valid License-to-Carry (LTC) and the firearm is on the approved roster. Youth hunters can hunt with a semi-automatic shotgun, under the supervision of an adult that has a valid LTC.

As for holders, the new semi-automatic laws are very expansive and there are several sections that must be referenced in order to determine what is banned and who is banned from possessing them.

The new law appears to give full authority to the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to amend the rosters for any and all firearms including semi-automatics. We won’t know what will be approved or banned for some time

There are no exemptions for rimfire in the assault weapon law. (Rimfire cartridges are typically low-powered and small-caliber, traditionally .22 rifles. Large capacity feeding devices do not include .22 rimfire tubular magazines.)

There has been no information yet regarding buy backs or confiscation.

Under the new laws, any muzzleloader that utilizes modern ammunition components and/or can be readily converted to accept a modern cartridge or barrel (for example) will now require a LTC or FID.

Non residents are no longer exempt from possessing handguns and/or semi-automatic firearms for competitions or hunting. It bans youth non-resident hunting (under 18). All firearms entering the Commonwealth for any purpose other than traveling through must be registered prior to them entering. For people who have moved into Massachusetts, it is possible that they will have to report all transfers since they have been living in Massachusetts.

UPS, FedEx, etc. must comply with storage and transportation laws. Trigger locks and other devices do not appear to have been changed.

There are new training requirements which were projected to take effect on August 1, 2024. There appears to be some training that was grandfathered which includes any license issued on or before August 1, 2024 and for all renewals. Only new applicants must do disengagement training and live fire training. There are many new requirements for the new training curriculum. The Colonel of the State Police, in consultation with the Municipal Police Training Committee, shall create a new training curriculum. It must include: injury prevention, suicide prevention, disengagement tactics, live fire and completion of a written exam.

Is there any doubt as to why GOAL announced a referendum effort to repeal this gun law? A referendum petition is used to have a law that was recently enacted by the legislature to be repealed by the voters. You can find out more about that on the GOAL website.

The new law is 116 pages long and there may be other aspects of it which could be mentioned in future columns. But for the next two weeks, this column will cover a different subject matter.

Berkshire National Fish Hatchery events

On Saturday, August 10, two events will be taking place at the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery in Monterey/Hartsville.

Running from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. the Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery will be having their monthly kids fishing derby. Bring your children ages 13 and under so that they can learn to fish and compete for prizes. No child goes away empty handed. Its free and there will be free derby shirts for the kids.

Following that, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. they will have an Open House where visitors have an opportunity to explore the fascinating facility, take guided tours and learn about the amazing work they do to support local fish populations and their habitats.

Enjoy complimentary hotdogs, chips, and watermelon during the Open House. T-shirts, hats, and sweatshirts will be for sale under the tent and a raffle drawing for a Traeger grill smoker. There will be fly casting for adults with a chance to win a bottle of gin from Berkshire Distillery with the hatchery logo on it

Fly Fishing Clinic

On August 9, Jim Lagacy, Aquatic Resource Education Coordinator, invites you to join MassWildlife’s ‘Fly Fishing 101’ clinic to learn how to get started in this wonderful pastime. They will take the romance and mystery out of this age-old technique and show you that fly fishing is just another tool in your fishing arsenal. From the necessary equipment needs, essential knots, how to rig up your fly rod and reel outfit, and how to cast, as well as some commonsense tips and techniques to get you started.

Kendelll Wojtkonski with a nice brown trout out of the Housatonic River in Lee., MA Picture taken by her fdad, Craig Smith.

After an introductory lesson, participants will be able to fly fish on Reynolds Pond (45 Fred Mason Rd, Cheshire) with help from local fly anglers and MassWildlife staff.

The free clinic is designed for beginner fly anglers (age 15+). Bring your own fly-fishing gear or borrow theirs. Space is limited, so pre-register at HTTPS://massfishhuntevents , # 4331, ASAP.

Family Fishing Clinic

On August 10, Lagacy invites you to join them for a free, family friendly, learn to fish clinic at Upper Highland Lake in the DAR State Forest, in Goshen, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Bring your fishing equipment or borrow theirs; limited equipment and bait will be provided.

When you arrive, instructors will cover the fishing basics with the balance of the time spent fishing. This class is designed for adults and families; participants ages 14 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Free and open to the public, pre-registration is required. HTTPS://massfishhuntevents 4332, ASAP.

American Museum of Fly Fishing Festival

On Saturday, August 10 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, the AMFF’s 16th annual free Fly-Fishing Festival will take place rain or shine on the museum grounds in Manchester, Vermont. This is its signature event of the summer, featuring a unique collection of vendors, including painters, appraisers, industry artisans and professionals, and other angling-related nonprofits. You are invited to enjoy fly tying and casting demonstrations, try your hand at casting vintage rods, learn how to tie a fly, and mingle with like-minded people as you share the joy of the great outdoors.

Join them throughout the day for a wide array of activities, including presentations, competitions, and demonstrations. The schedule of events is as follows:

11:00 am: Casting competition
12:00 pm: Saltwater Casting Seminar with AMFF Ambassador Kyle Schaefer
1:00 pm: Meet the Artist: C.D. Clarke
2:00 pm: Art Workshop with AMFF Ambassador Rachel Finn
3:00 pm: Raffle drawing at admissions tent

Happening all day: Tackle appraisals with Bob Selb, Fred Kretchman, and Carmine Lisella,
casting lessons with AMFF Ambassador Kyle Schaefer, vendors and non-profits, fly tying demonstrations, casting the classics, local food and beverage trucks, children’s activities
explore multiple exhibitions in the museum galleries, music by Shannon Roy, free museum admission all day.

Hoosic Riverfest

You are invited to join the Hoosic River Watershed Association (HooRWA) and the Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited on Saturday, August 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for RiverFest.

Attend a workshop on fly tying, fly casting, macroinvertebrates and/or wild edible plants. Listen to river-inspired music and poetry, see demos on water quality monitoring, get to know the species that live in the river, and even participate in a river clean-up which runs from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.

This event is free and open to the public. The rain date is Saturday, August 24.

Catskill fishing trip – Part 2

Posted on July 23, 2024 by Gene

Last week’s narrative of our flyfishing trip to the Catskills ended at the Covered Bridge Pool on the Beaverkill River where Paul Knauth and I stopped on Day 3 of our trip for lunch at a picnic area. You may recall that there we told an old timer where we thought the Rhododendron Pool was located. He had been searching for that pool for years.

From there, we went back to fish Ferdon’s Pool on the Beaverkill River where we had pretty good luck the night before.

This time Paul fished the tail end of the 200 yard pool and I returned to the rapids entering it. I brought two fly rods to the waters, my trusty L.L.Bean graphite and an old bamboo rod named the Scotty, which was made by Sharpe Co. of England. I have no idea how old that rod is. The plan was to catch one trout with that rod, put it down and continue fishing with the L.L. Beaner. I didn’t want to risk breaking that old classic bamboo rod like I did last year with an old Orvis bamboo rod. Well, I ended up fishing all evening with that rod because I never caught a fish. Paul managed to catch only 1 trout. The fish just weren’t biting.

After returning to the motel, we joined the other anglers around a campfire. Two young German fellows who were in the US on a business trip and who were staying at the motel joined us and brought along some beer. (What else?) Paul and I opted for a splash of bourbon in his fancy glasses which he always brings on our trips. The German fellas had never fly fished before and on that day hired a fishing guide to take them out. One of them caught a trout and he was elated and is probably now hooked on fly fishing.

Feeling better from his bout with vertigo, Dwight Atkinson showed up and he brought a peach pie which we all shared. It was a wonderful evening of comradery. Later, when we returned to our room, Paul suggested that I look at the bottom of his empty glass. Standing there with wings upright and happy as a lark was a live blue winged olive mayfly. We had a good laugh over that.

On Day 4, (Wednesday), we had breakfast at a local diner and just as we were leaving, Paul struck up a conversation with an old gent who knew the area quite well and he gave us some advice as to where to fish on the Willowemoc River.

We checked out one area which wasn’t to our liking as it was not a large area and would probably be crowded if another angler showed up. We checked out the second area mentioned, Dettes Pool and Roscoe Riverside Park, and we found a good looking pool to fish. We decided to fish it that evening after having another lunch of overstuffed sandwiches with a hint of yellow pepper juice followed by my wife Jan’s delicious chocolate chip squares.

It was at the park that we saw the famous 2-Headed Trout sign. (See footnotes below about the Dettes and the 2-Headed Trout.)

When we arrived at the pool, we were disappointed to see that two anglers were there already. So, we found another decent looking spot further downstream and began fishing there. Paul fished downstream toward Junction Pool while I fished the bumpy pocket water upstream with my trusty AuSable Wulff dry fly. The fishing was incredible! It seemed like every piece of pocket water contained a trout. When I worked up near the pool where the two fishermen previously had been, I saw that they had left. Moving right in, I proceeded to have the best fishing in many years.

Around 8:00 p.m., I started fishing back downstream toward Paul and the fishing was even better than when I fished upstream – the fish were larger. I won’t mention how many trout I caught, for readers probably wouldn’t believe me. It was one fish after another, almost every cast for 3 hours. Nice sized trout too, with the largest being 15 inches – all on the same fly, the AuSable Wulff dry fly.

The fishing was so good that I practically had to hide behind bushes and trees in order to apply floatant and refresh the fly, lest a trout would jump and try to take it right out of my hand and perhaps bite me in the process.

Just before dark, while fighting a 15-inch brown trout, I saw another even larger trout jump nearby. After landing the 15 incher, the fly was all beat up, bent and starting to unravel. But I tossed it out near the big fish anyway. Bam! Did it hammer it! When it realized it had been hooked, it immediately shot straight across the river to where there were some submerged slate rocks, swam around one and cut my leader. I had the distinct feeling that fish had used that tactic before.

By then it was too dark to tie on another fly so I watched Paul fish for a little while before total darkness set in. No problem for I had never caught and released that many trout in a day, much less three hours. Retired Dr. Charles Wohl of Lenox has an apt description for fishing times such as these….. “obscene.”

Paul also had a good night of fishing with his old Orvis bamboo rod and using Copper Johns and Gold Ribbed Hares Ear nymphs

That was a lucky evening for me in another way, too. One time I slipped and went down falling on my L.L. Bean flyrod. Fortunately, it didn’t break. But if I had been using that old bamboo Sharpe rod that I used the night before, it would surely have been shattered and it would have tainted an otherwise perfect evening.

When we returned to the motel, it wasn’t long before word got out about my unusual success. I was treated like a celebrity that night with people stopping by to offer congratulations and asking what fly I had used. For a while, I considered charging a consultant fee.

Mike Mcgowan, an angler from Idaho, was very interested in the fly and was going to purchase one the following day, as was Dwight, who was feeling even better and was able to start fishing.

Paul and I headed home that Thursday morning and while on the road, Mike texted telling us he purchased an AuSable Wulff dry fly and proceeded to catch a 20-inch brown trout that morning. Dwight stayed on and fished until Saturday. He fished the Dette Pool and one day he netted 7 trout with the same fly.

No, we never met up with Iron Mike, the big brown trout, on this trip. Instead of returning time after time to the same spot where we last saw him, we opted to fish new places such as the Rhododendron Pool, Covered Bridge Pool and the Roscoe Riverside Park and I’m glad we did. How could I be disappointed after having one of the finest days of fly fishing in my entire life amid such beautiful surroundings? Paul and I look forward to another flyfishing trip to the Catskills this fall, a little more knowledgeable about its wonderful rivers than we were before.

*Walt and Winnie Dette, along with their daughter Mary, tied flies from their home along the banks of the Willowemoc River for almost three-quarters of a century. They had been part of the tradition of Roscoe, a center of fly-fishing, and were the last of the renowned school of the Catskill FlyTiers. Walt was one of the major links in a chain that reaches back to Theodore Gordon, long considered by many as the father of dry-fly fishing in this country. Established in 1928, it is claimed that Dette Flies is the oldest family run fly fishing shop in the world.

** The 2-headed trout sign reads as following: “Legend holds that a trout swam to Juncture Pool where the Beaverkill and Willowemoc meet. Unsure of which way to go, it started left and right. Remaining in one spot so long, the trout grew a second head. To this day, people say they have seen it, but no one has caught it.”

Exciting times fly fishing in the Catskills

Posted on July 19, 2024 by Gene

As noted in last week’s column, this and next week’s columns will be devoted to Paul Knauth’s and my June flyfishing trip to the Catskills in NY. I was hoping to have another chance at catching a large brown trout in the Beaverkill River that I missed several times last year.

We arrived at the Roscoe Motel in Roscoe, NY around 3:00 pm on Sunday, June 2 and there to greet us was Dwight Atkinson of Virginia who we first met last fall and have since developed a close friendship. He’s the guy described in my February 24, 2024 column entitled “You meet the most interesting people while fly fishing in the Catskills” as a person who fishes anywhere and anytime he wants. He made it a point to be in Roscoe for the rematch with that fabled big brown trout known as Iron Mike. On his way to the Catskills, Dwight stopped at a roadside pie store and purchased 4 homemade pies for the fishermen staying at the motel, which included people from MA, NY, NJ, VA, PA, Washington DC, MI, ID, Canada and Germany. Hey, the Catskills is the place for fly fishermen to be in early June.

Also there to greet us was motel owner, Rachael Yeager and her dog named Chuck. He is a very friendly old Yellow Lab who keeps an eye on the anglers and if someone should perchance leave their motel room door open, Chuck just goes in and helps himself to whatever food is on the table.

Incidentally, the motel is not more than 30 feet from the Beaverkill River. One can simply look out one’s motel room window and determine the river condition, flies that are hatching, whether fish are rising, etc.

After settling into our room, Paul and I headed for Iron Mike’s last known location on the Beaverkill River, the place where he cleaned my clock last fall. Luckily, no one was fishing that spot. Try as I might to entice Iron Mike to make an appearance and grab my fly, I wasn’t able to do so. The only fish in that stretch of water were 5-6 inch trout. If Iron Mike was around, those fish would surely not be there for he would have munched them up like potato chips.

In the 3 hours we were there, Paul caught a couple of nice sized brown trout downstream from me, but there was no sign of Iron Mike. Perhaps someone caught him since we were last there, or maybe he simply died of old age. We did manage to catch 4 trout each that evening. When we got back to the motel the usual group of flyfishermen was not there outside their rooms, gabbing, drinking, etc. We thought for sure Dwight would be there with some pie but he wasn’t. So we turned in early.

The next morning around 7:00 a.m. we chatted with Nick Cobler from PA who was already sitting outside his motel room tying flies. He is one superb fly tyer and we marveled at his work.

After breakfast on Day 2 (Monday) we visited a local fly shop to pick up some stuff and then headed out onto a Willowemoc River pool behind a rest stop on Rte. 17 near Roscoe. Not knowing the name of that pool, we simply called it the Rest Stop Pool. It was getting hot, so instead of wearing chest waders, Paul opted to go wet wading. (No chest waders, just shorts, wading shoes and wading socks). He fished upstream from me.

When we concluded fishing and met up, Paul commented that on the other side of the river from where he was fishing, the whole bank was covered with Rhododendrons and that when they bloom, that place must be absolutely gorgeous.

While eating lunch, we discovered that the lid on a jar of yellow peppers was loose and the pepper juice leaked into Paul’s cooler affecting the taste and texture of our sandwichs and everything else in it. We could smell it every time we opened the cooler.

After lunch and resting, we headed for Ferdon’s Pool on the Beaverkill, a place we fished last year and had good luck. Paul fished upstream with tandem nymphs near the bottom while I fished the bumpy head waters leading into the large pool using my favorite fly, the AuSable Wulff dry fly. We both ended up catching and releasing 8 trout that evening. When we returned to the motel, once again Dwight was nowhere to be seen. We learned that some sort of vertigo or dizziness had overtaken him and it was so bad that he was bed-ridden Sunday afternoon and Monday. What a shame, for he planned the trip for months only to have that happen.

On Day 3 (Tuesday) we fished upstream of the Covered Bridge Pool on the Beaverkill River. That part of the river was too rapid, rocky and slippery for me. I couldn’t stand in it even while using my wading staff. Walking the path alongside it wasn’t much better. (I should mention here that in addition to having neuropathy in both feet, I also have balance issues going on these days.) Despite Paul’s offer to help me cross it, I opted to sit on a shaded rock and cast from there. Paul crossed and fished upstream.

picture provided by Gene Chague

It was terribly hot that day, and every now and then I had to dip my fishing hat into the water to cool my noggin. But I was content sitting in the shade and I even managed to catch and release a couple of trout.

While fishing there, an older gentleman passed behind me on the trail heading upriver. Good for him, I thought, for I couldn’t even walk on that difficult trail. When I looked upriver a few minutes later, I saw him attempting to cross an area of fast moving water about 70 yards away. Oh no! After making another cast, I turned to see how he was doing and there he was on his hands and knees in the middle of the river trying to get up. Each time he tried to stand he went down again. Ooh, this is not good! Fortunately, the river wasn’t so deep that he was in too much danger of drowning, but his waders must have filled with water and he was in a dangerous situation. The thought of him possibly having a broken hip or leg crossed my mind.

picture provided by Gene Chague

With no way for me to help him, I decided to call Paul, who was fishing further upstream out of sight, to see if he could come downstream to help him. Unfortunately, I accidentally left my cell phone in Paul’s vehicle. (I subsequently learned that there was no cell service there anyway).

I was beginning to panic, possibly more so than the old gent himself. After a fairly long time, he was able to get to his feet. Thankfully, it appeared that no body parts were broken. Now all he had to do was to work his way to the other side, not an easy task at all. Gradually, he made it. After he finally got to the other side and checked his flyrod for damage he looked toward me and we exchanged “Hooray!” signals.

When Paul returned and helped me get out of the river, up the bank and back to the park area, we sat at a picnic bench and ate overstuffed sandwiches with a slight tinge of yellow pepper juice. Paul had some good fishing upstream catching a 15 inch rainbow trout and a 16 inch brown trout along with several other nice fish.

Just before leaving, we met another older gent who had just stopped fishing. He told us how he used to fish the area with his father and grandfather. In fact, his great grandfather used to camp on some farmer’s land around there way back when. Over the years, he made it his mission to fish every one of the areas about which his grandad spoke. He was able to fish them all, except one place which he could never find, a place that his grandad called Rhododendron Pool. When Paul told him about that pool behind the service area where he saw all the rhododendrons, the old gent was elated and said he said he couldn’t wait to fish that place.

To be continued next week.

eregrine falcon numbers continue to grow in Massachusetts

Posted on June 7, 2024 by Gene

Being an outdoor sports columnist, I frequently write about ducks, geese, woodcock, pheasants, grouse, turkeys, etc. But last week, a MassWildlife Media Advisory was received entitled: “State Officials Band Rare Peregrine Falcons in Newburyport.” The public was invited to view the banding, but unfortunately, the advisory came in too late for me to include in last week’s column. It was scheduled to take place on May 29. So, why not write about these beautiful raptors anyway?

Information regarding these birds on the MassWildlife web site revealed the following information:

The peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) is the fastest bird on earth, capable of diving from great heights at speeds of up to 240 miles per hour. Males are 15–18 inches in length with a 35–42-inch wingspan; females 18–20 inches in length with a 42–48-inch wingspan.

Before 2017, peregrine falcons were listed as endangered in Massachusetts. In 2019, their status in the state was improved to Special Concern, a status they still have today. Peregrine falcons were removed from the Federal Endangered Species List in 1999.

Peregrine falcons have long, pointed wings and long, slightly rounded tails. Adults have a bluish-gray to slate-gray backside and a buffy white underside that is speckled with black. Adults also have a black crown and black mustache-like markings that look like sideburns. The throat is white. The bill is dark except for a prominent yellow fleshy base called a cere. The legs and feet are yellow. Immature peregrines have a brown backside and a heavily streaked underside.

Adults generally live about 10 years. The longest known lifespan of a peregrine falcon was 17 years. Most peregrine falcons nest at 2 to 3 years old. Once they are established, adults remain in their territory throughout the year. By March 1, adult pairs choose their nest site for the season. By the beginning of April, 4 or 5 eggs are laid. The chicks hatch in early May and fledge (leave the nest) in mid-June. By the beginning of August, chicks become independent of their parents. During their first fall and winter, young peregrine falcons disperse around New England finding territories of their own.

Peregrine falcons are specially adapted to capture birds in flight. In Massachusetts, they almost exclusively hunt for other birds. The most frequent prey species include pigeons, blue jays, and European starlings. Their best known hunting strategy is to soar high over their territory and wait for a bird to fly past far below. They then dive straight down in a controlled dive called a stoop, where they can reach speeds over 240 miles per hour. The small bird flying below does not even know that it was targeted.

Historically, peregrine falcons nesting sites, (called eyries), within Massachusetts were located on rocky cliffs but today they also nest on tall man-made structures like buildings and bridges. Buildings that have consistent peregrine falcon nests can be found in Boston, Chelsea, Cambridge, Watertown, Lawrence, Lowell, Worcester, Amherst, and New Bedford. They nest on bridges in Charlestown, Fall River, West Springfield, and Northampton.

To boost nesting success, MassWildlife and MassDOT have installed several nest boxes across the state. Leg banding provides MassWildlife biologists with useful information about the birds’ movements, lifespan, and injury recovery.

In the late 1940s, the effects of the pesticide DDT began taking their toll on peregrine falcons. Accumulation of DDT caused falcons and other birds to lay thin-shelled eggs that broke under the weight of incubation. By 1955, due to the widespread use of harmful pesticides like DDT, there were no nesting peregrine pairs left in Massachusetts.

Restoration efforts began in 1972, coinciding with the ban of DDT and attempts to release captive-bred chicks occurred in 1975–1979 with no success.

In 1984 and 1985, MassWildlife and partners released young falcons in downtown Boston, successfully leading to the first modern Massachusetts nest in 1987 on the Customs House Tower in Boston. There are now nearly 50 territorial pairs of peregrine falcons in Massachusetts. This is more than triple the 14 pairs that nested in Massachusetts in the pre-DDT era of the 1930s.

This year marks the 38^th year of peregrine falcon restoration efforts in Massachusetts, and over 1,077 wild-hatched chicks have fledged from nests in the state since restoration efforts began.

Do we have to travel to eastern Massachusetts to see these amazing birds? Absolutely not. If you are patient, lucky, and know where to look, you will see them on Monument Mountain.

Berkshire National Fish Hatchery youth fishing derby

Bring your children aged 13 and under next Saturday, June 8 to the monthly Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery Youth Fishing Derby at the Hatchery’s Derby Pond at 240 Hatchery Road, New Marlborough.

It runs from 9:00 to 10:30 am. Watch them learn to fish and compete for prizes. No child goes away empty handed.

Pittsfield Sportsmen’s Club youth fishing event

The Pittsfield Sportsmen’s Clubs (PSC) is sponsoring a free, kids fishing day at Reynolds Pond in Cheshire off Fred Mason Road on Saturday June 8 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. It is for kids 12 and under and their parents don’t have to be PSC members.

There will be three tagged fish, poles and bait available, also snacks and juice boxes for the kids.

For more information, contact Sandra and Ed Bushey at (413) 443-9371.

Housatonic River Cleanup

Volunteers are invited to help clean up the west branch of the Housatonic River with Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT) and Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) at one of their annual river cleanups on Sunday, June 9, from 9:00 am to Noon. After the cleanup, volunteers will be provided a free lunch from a local restaurant. Volunteers must RSVP in advance to reserve a free lunch.

Participants should meet at Wahconah Park, 105 Wahconah Street, Pittsfield, at 9:00 am. Cleanup teams will disperse to nearby locations, gathering miscellaneous trash from the river banks and bottom. Canoes will be used to transport the trash. Old clothes, a hat, sunscreen, old sneakers or waterproof boots/waders, a full water bottle, and sunglasses are recommended. In the event of pouring rain or lightning, the cleanup will be postponed to Saturday, June 29.

Cleanups make a considerable difference in the health of the Housatonic River. Over the years, BEAT and HVA have collected a startling array of debris — including mattresses, shopping carts, inflatable pools, bicycles, televisions, tires, construction materials, metal barrels, and all kinds of everyday trash. Once, they even found an empty ATM. Since beginning annual cleanups, their efforts have made a noticeable difference, with the piles of trash getting smaller. BEAT feels that this wouldn’t be possible without the help of their volunteers.

You are invited to join BEAT and HVA at a cleanup this summer to see what else may be in the River and make a difference for the environment. Register at www.tinyurl.com/Housatonic-River-Cleanups-2024. For more information, visit thebeatnews.org or call (413) 464-9402.

West Branch Housatonic River Cleanups are organized by Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT) and Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) and co-sponsored by Blue Q, Panera Bread, and the City of Pittsfield.

Possible “pin” fish caught at the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club fishing derby

Posted on May 29, 2024 by Gene

Last Sunday, April 19 was a beautiful day for the SSC Fishing Derby with temperatures in the 60’s. The derby, which ran from dawn to 1:00 pm was organized and run by Club members Tim Minkler and George Chasse. There were 44 anglers entered into the contest which was lower than past years, but some nice size fish were caught. All fish were released after being weighed and measured. The following information was provided by Tim Minkler:

Adult Winners ($100 dollars)

Largest Pickerel: Mike Soncini, Housatonic, MA 4 lbs., 8 oz., 25 ½ inches long. If the weight and length held up on state certified scales, it qualified for a sportfishing award pin in the catch and release category. It was the heaviest fish of the day.

Mike Soncini with large pickerel. Picture provided

Largest Trout: Conner Casey, Housatonic MA, 1 -lb., 15 oz, 14 inches long

Largest Bass: Tim Fogerty, Lee MA, 3 lbs., 10 oz., 18 ½ inches long (He caught another bass slightly smaller)
Tim Fogarty with 2 bass. Picture taken by Gene Chague

Largest Bullhead: Tom Methe, Washington MA, 1 lb., 5 oz., 13 ½ inches long

Age 12 and Under Winner:

Mya Methe, Washington MA, Bullhead: 10.4 oz, 10 ½ inches long

This year they had a food trailer on site for the first time (Laura’s On The Go). The variety and quality of food was great.

Trout Stocking

The following waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week. This is the last of the scheduled spring 2024 weekly trout stockings.

Ashfield Pond, Goose Pond, Laurel Lake, North Pond, Onota Lake, Pontoosuc Lake, Richmond Pond, Stockbridge Bowl and Upper Highland Lake.

Many thanks go out to Deb Lipa and Leanda Fontaine from the DFW Western District Headquarters in Dalton for providing the weekly trout stocking information to us. I’m sure it resulted in more work for them and they did not have to do it. If you are in their neighborhood, you may want to stop in and thank them.

Youth Artist from Acton Wins Junior Duck Stamp Contest

Meghan Li from Acton won Best of Show in the 2024 Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp (JDS) Contest. Her colored pencil and soft pastel drawing of a hooded merganser was selected from 267 entries. Li’s award-winning work will represent Massachusetts at the National JDS Contest.

Meghan Li’s picture provided by MassWildlife

Students from kindergarten through grade 12 from across the Commonwealth submitted original works of art depicting waterfowl in their natural habitats, demonstrating both artistic talent and a knowledge of the value of wetlands for wildlife. In March, a panel of judges selected the top works of art in each of four age groups. A combination of the top artworks will be exhibited throughout Massachusetts in the coming year.

The Massachusetts JDS Program is sponsored by MassWildlife and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with support from the Massachusetts Sportsmen’s Council. Please support the JDS Program and wetland conservation by purchasing Junior Duck Stamps featuring national winners from previous years. Stamps can be purchased at duckstamp.com.

Congratulations Cindy Delpapa

In a recent press release, The Wild & Scenic Westfield River Committee awarded Cindy Delpapa, of Becket MA. the Bob Thompson award for her dedication to the river and the breadth of knowledge she shared for the benefit of all. “Her high standards and clarity of focus guided the committee through an update of the strategic plan, development of a website focused on action, and a model for funding culvert replacement across the watershed that improves safety and river habitat at the same time.”

“Cindy was instrumental in launching two new initiatives, “Rooting out Barberry” and exploring “Brine for Pretreatment” to prevent ice from forming on our Hilltown roads in winter. Cindy brought Action Research in to assist the committee with developing campaigns that speak directly to the audience we are trying to reach in a manner that is clear, inspiring and motivating.

If you are interested in the Committee’s work or participating in its initiatives visit https://westfieldriverwildscenic.org/.

Spring turkey hunting ends today

Sorry, if you haven’t bagged a wild turkey yet, then you will have to wait until the fall turkey hunting season to get another chance. The fall season opens on October 7 in our zone.

Help MassWildlife with its annual summer wild turkey count. Every year from June 1 to August 31, wild turkey reports from the public help their biologists determine productivity, compare long-term reproductive success, and estimate fall harvest potential. Reports are welcome from all regions of Massachusetts, from the most rural communities to more densely-populated areas. The summer wild turkey survey is a fun way for people to connect with nature while contributing valuable data to MassWildlife biologists.

You are encouraged to report wild turkey sightings in your area. Contribute to the annual wild turkey survey by reporting observations of hens (female turkeys), poults (newly-hatched turkeys), jakes (juvenile males), and toms (adult males). Click onto the MassWildlife web page to learn how to tell the difference between male and female turkeys.

Turkey sightings can now be submitted online using a form which can be downloaded. The form was updated in 2023 to include a map that allows collection of more accurate location information. Users have the option to zoom to their location on the map or type in an address.

Basic Hunter Education course

Basic hunter education is mandatory for all first-time adult hunters. MassWildlife offers Basic Hunter Education in two formats, in-person or blended.

A blended course is being offered at the Ashfield Rod & Gun Club, 161 North Street, Plainfield on Saturday, June 15 from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

To enroll, call 508-389-7830 or click onto: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/basic-hunter-education-course for all the details

All courses are free of charge and open to the public.

United States Practical Shooting Association

USPSA is a fun and fast action shooting sport where participants balance accuracy, power, and speed into a winning combination. Multiple targets, moving targets, targets that react when hit, penalty targets, or even partially covered targets, obstacles, movement, and other techniques are all used to keep USPSA shooters challenged and spectators engaged. USPSA matches are held all over the US with local clubs holding matches practically every day of the week. You probably already own everything you need to compete in USPSA. The cost is $20 and they are held at the Lee Sportsmen’s Association. Cold Range Rules apply.

The times and dates are as follows for 10:00 am shoots: Registration 8:30 am, safety briefing 9:30 am. on the following dates: June 2, July 7, August 4, September 1, October 6 and November 3.

The times and dates are as follows for the 12:00 pm shoots: Registration 10:30 am, safety briefing 11:30 am on the following dates: June 16, July 21, August 18, September 15 and October 20.

They also have a “Steel Challenge.” Check the LSA web page for those details.

There’s music in the air

Beagle music, that is. On June 8, the Berkshire Beagle Club, 380 Sleepy Hollow Road in Richmond, is sponsoring a SPO (Small Pack Option) derby on rabbits and hares. It starts around 8:00 am. The Club has two fenced in running grounds.

If you want to see what it is all about, just drop over. You can contact Chris Wilser (845)489-6554 or Jeffrey St. John (413)441-0744 for more details.

Memorial Day Weekend

It’s that time again when we honor those who have fought, suffered and/or died in defense of our nation. Look around and see the beautiful, peaceful woods and waters that we have here in the Berkshires and compare that to what is going on in so many other parts of the world. There was a price that had to be paid to have this and the people we honor this weekend paid it. Please, let us not forget that.

Wild Acres Youth Fishing Derby had another great turnout

Posted on May 22, 2024 by Gene

Last Saturday, May 11, the Wild Acres Youth Fishing Derby took place with over 100 children registered. The age range was from 2 1/2 to 14 years old. The weather was very cooperative and it was a lovely morning.

This was the 10th year that the City of Pittsfield Conservation Commission and Lyon Aviation sponsored the event. Representing the City of Pittsfield were Maddy Brown, Recreation & Special Events Coordinator and Rob Van Der Kar, Pittsfield Conservation Agent. Assisting the anglers were Onota Fishing Club volunteers. Dave’s Sporting Goods Store, Onota Boat Livery and Parks and Recreation provided bait, fishing poles and tackle; Lyon Aviation provided the brook trout which came from the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery in New Marlborough. Ozzie’s Steak and Eggs provided free food vouchers to 100 people from their food truck. Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) and the Onota Boat Livery donated a number of fishing poles that were raffled off throughout the morning.

Only 1 of the 400 stocked brook trout was caught as bass were the most popular catches of the day. Actually, the largest fish caught was a 17 inch, 2.2 lbs. largemouth bass, which was caught by Troy Sparrow.

Troy Sparrow’s bass. Photo provided by Maddy Brown

Mylles Tagole caught the sole trout. Some pumpkinseeds, bullhead and pond shiners were also caught.

Mylles Tagole with the only trout caught. Picture provided by Gene Chague

I can’t tell you how many folks commented on the fond memories they had of their dads or granddads bringing them to this little pond to learn how to fish. Today, the tradition continues and now they are bringing their kids and grandkids.

One notable person missing this year was the late Clem Caryofilles of the Onota Fishing Club who recently passed beyond the riverbend. For many years he was heavily involved in this event and we really missed him. Incidentally, age is taking its toll on the Onota Fishing Club membership and its numbers are shrinking. Perhaps its time for the next generation of folks to step up to the plate to keep this tradition alive.

Our hats are off to Lyon Aviation, the City of Pittsfield, the Onota Fishing Club, BRPC and everyone involved to make this event a great success.

A huge thank you goes to Maddy Brown for providing information on the derby winners and other pertinent information.

Trout stocking

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week, subject to change: Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont, and Florida, Green River in Alford, Egremont, and Great Barrington, Housatonic River C&R in Lee and Stockbridge, Housatonic River East Branch in Dalton and Hinsdale, Konkapot River in Monterey and New Marlborough, Littleville Reservoir in Chester and Huntington, North Pond in Florida, Westfield River East Branch in Chester, Cummington and Huntington, Westfield River West Branch in Becket, Chester, Huntington and Middlefield, Onota Lake, Richmond Pond and Stockbridge Bowl.

MassWildlife staff honored

In a recent public announcement, current and former MassWildlife staff were recognized for their contributions to fisheries and wildlife conservation.

The Robert McDowell Award

This is the highest honor presented by the Directors of the Northeast Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies to honor career professionals who have made significant contributions to advance fish and wildlife conservation in the Northeastern United States and eastern Canadian Provinces. Jim Cardoza, retired MassWildlife Biologist, was presented with this award at the 79^th annual Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference hosted by MassWildlife on Cape Cod in April.

Cardoza’s accomplishments during his long tenure as a wildlife biologist in Massachusetts are impressive. Notably, he was the key architect of the restoration of wild turkeys in the Northeast. Turkeys were absent in Massachusetts until reintroduction efforts began in the late 1960s. Today, Massachusetts’ wild turkey population is estimated at around 35,000 birds! Jim also pioneered innovative methods for studying black bears and became one of the country’s leading experts on this species. He shared his expertise by publishing dozens of peer-reviewed articles and presenting at professional conferences ensuring that other wildlife professionals had access to the latest wildlife management methods and research results.

This honor took on special significance since Mr. Cardoza accepted the Robert McDowell Award at his 50^th Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference.

William T. Hesselton Memorial Award

Every year, a group of wildlife professionals from 13 Northeast states nominate an individual who has made significant contributions to wildlife conservation and to wildlife management and hunter training programs. Susan Langlois, MassWildlife’s Hunter Education Program Administrator, received the William T. Hesselton Memorial Award at the Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference. Langlois has dedicated her career to the conservation of Massachusetts wildlife and to providing top-notch instruction to the sporting community. Drawing on her expertise as a biologist, Susan has become an advocate for science-based wildlife management and a national leader in developing modern hunter education program standards. She helped develop a national trapper education course and is an instructor and advisory member for the national Conservation Leaders for Tomorrow program.

Berkshire County League Sportsperson of the Year

The third award recipient was Leanda Fontaine, MassWildlife’s Western District Aquatic Biologist, who was named (BCLS) 2023 Sportsperson of the Year. The award was given by the BCLS at the Silvio O. Conte Memorial Banquet on April 13. During her nearly 20 years with MassWildlife, Fontaine has been involved with a variety of statewide fisheries research and conservation projects. In her current role, she oversees fisheries projects in western Massachusetts, plans trout stocking activities and public stocking events, and supports learn-to-fish classes in the Berkshires. Leanda has implemented several successful invasive water chestnut removal projects, contributes her knowledge to lake and pond management discussions, and is the MassWildlife representative on the interagency scientific dive team.

All three were also honored by the MA Fish & Wildlife Board at its May 15 meeting.

Annual Harry A Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby coming up

The 32nd Annual Harry A. Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby will take place on Saturday, June 1, (rain or shine), 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.

This fishing derby is perhaps the most important and largest of our local fishing derbies. Open to the public, its purpose is to raise money for the Jimmy Fund – Dana Farber Cancer Institute. All 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.

Many 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 carp 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.

The fee, which includes food and beverage, is $10 for adults, $5 for children 14 years old and younger. Advanced tickets may be purchased at Avid Sports, 201 West Housatonic Street, Dave’s Sporting Goods, 1164 North Street and Onota Boat Livery, 436 Peck’s Road, all in Pittsfield. Everyone needs to register at the Frank Controy Pavilion. Even if you can’t make the derby, donations to the cause will be graciously accepted.

June 1–2, is Free Freshwater Fishing Weekend

Mark your calendars for this year’s Free Freshwater Fishing Weekend on June 1 and 2. No license is required to fish any public lake, pond, reservoir, stream, or river in Massachusetts from 12:00 am. Saturday, June 1 until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, June 2.

For saltwater anglers, Free Saltwater Fishing Weekend is June 15–16.

Other than on Free Fishing Weekend, you need a license to fish in fresh water if you are 15 or older. If you’ are 15–17 or 70 and older, your license is free.

All other regulations, including catch limits, apply during Free Fishing Weekend. Before heading out on the water, make sure you know the rules.

Funds from fishing license sales support MassWildlife’s fisheries research, fish stocking programs, and angler education programs.

Beagle Club Field Trials proved successful despite recent storm damage

Posted on May 7, 2024 by Gene

Last weekend the Berkshire Beagle Club held its Small Pack Option (SPO) Licensed spring field trials. According to Club spokesman Jeffrey St John, they had 97 entries for the weekend. The popularity of the beagle club’s field trials is self-evident. Just look at the distances from whence the winning dog owners came.

“The air was filled with sounds of beagles on the chase all weekend,” said St John, “Judges were busy as they worked to come up with the winners”.

Chris Wilser, Trial Chairperson received many compliments from judges and the gallery on the condition of the grounds, participation from the members and the venue at the club house. Nice compliments when one considers the condition of the 86-acre grounds just a couple of weeks earlier. Wind damage brought down trees all over the grounds which in turn brought down fences (including electric fences) which keep the bunnies on the property. On property rabbit breeding pen fencing also sustained damages. Club members volunteered many days of hard work repairing the damage in order to have the grounds ready for the field trial.

On Saturday, April 20 there were 37 male entries. The winner in the 13” class was Duda’s Sock it to Them Santino, owned by Salvatore Amato of McAlisterville, PA.

The winner of the 15” class was Easy Streets Black Momba, owned by Amanda and Justin Dean from Shushan, NY, (former members of the Berkshire Beagle Club). Special congratulations to the Deans because, pending AKC approval, Momba will attain Field Champion Gun Dog Status. To obtain that status a dog must have 3 field trial wins and 120 points. There is a complicated formula in determining points which I will not attempt to explain in this column. Field Champion Gun Dog Status qualifies entry into any national trial, large pack and small pack. (More explanation follows below).

On Sunday April 21, there were 60 female entries. Winner of the 13” class was Garra, owned by Mirsad Ferhatouic from Utica, NY. The winner of the 15” class was Cold River Tessa, owned by Keith and Addison Brick from North Concord, VT.

A little history: In the 1970’s, The American Kennel Club, determined that a need existed for a real gundog, or hunting beagle field trial. They did not believe that the Large Pack was the most acceptable method to pursue the cottontail rabbit. Instead, they chose to use a running standard that was already in the AKC Rules.

This was the Small Pack in which hounds were run on rabbits in packs of from three to seven hounds, with the judges selecting the outstanding performers to be run in a second series and then finally in a Winners Pack. To prove beyond a doubt that they were competing with “hunting beagles,” the AKC permitted the additional testing of their hounds for gun-shyness and searching ability in what became known as the Small Pack Option.

Local trout stockings

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked last week by MassWildlife, subject to change due to unforeseen conditions: Buck River in Sandisfield, Chickley River in Charlemont and Hawley, Clam River in Sandisfield, Clesson Brook in Ashfield and Buckland, Clesson Brook (Upper Branch) in Ashfield, Cold River in Charlemont and Florida, Green River North in New Ashford, Green River South in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington, Greenwater Pond in Becket, Hemlock Brook in Williamstown, Hoosic River South Branch in Adams and Cheshire, Housatonic River (C&R) in Lee and Stockbridge, Housatonic River East Branch in Hinsdale and Dalton, Hubbard River in Granville and Tolland, Konkapot River in Monterey and New Marlborough, Pontoosuc Lake, South River in Ashfield, Wahconah Falls Brook in Dalton, Windsor Brook in Windsor and Hinsdale, and Windsor Lake in North Adams.

Kids fishing derby and more at the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery

Next Saturday, May 11, the Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery Board invites you to join them for a free pancake breakfast to kick off derby day at 7:30 am, at the hatchery, 240 Hatchery Road, New Marlborough, MA. Board member Dean Hutson suggests you fill up on delicious pancakes before heading down to the Derby Pond for some exciting fishing action.

At 9:00 am, the derby (for kids ages 13 and under), kicks off with even more tagged fish added to the pond, guaranteeing an exhilarating fishing experience. Don’t miss out on the chance to win great prizes and snag one of their exclusive derby t-shirts. The derby ends at 10:30 am.

Hutson also invites you to check out their raffle for a Traeger smoker grill on display and to browse through a variety of items for sale under the tent, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, water bottles, and car stickers.

Hutson promises a fantastic day of fishing, fun, and delicious food.

Incidentally, the April 20 Fly Tying/Fly Casting class which was held at the Hatchery was quite a memorable experience for a couple of attendees. That morning, two newcomers to fly fishing attended and learned how to tie a trout fly in the fly tying class. Following that, they were taught how to fly cast. Then they proceeded to the Hatchery Derby Pool, learned how to attach the fly to the line and, guess what, both caught a rainbow trout. Is that cool or what?

Free Fishing Derby for Youths

The City of Pittsfield Conservation Commission has announced that they and Lyon Aviation will sponsor a Free Fishing Derby (rain or shine) for youths aged 14 and under next Saturday, May 11 at the Wild Acres Conservation which is located off of South Mountain Road in Pittsfield next to the airport. The accessible trail down to the pond is now open.

Volunteer support will be provided by the Onota Fishing Club to assist with dressing fish, providing fishing tips and techniques, baiting, etc. Bait will be provided. The derby will run from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm. Trophies will be awarded at 12:00 pm to those who caught the largest fish (length & weight).

The first 100 kids will receive a free food voucher. Food will also be available for purchase from Ozzie’s Steak & Eggs.

For more information, contact Maddy Brown, Recreation & Special Events Coordinator, at (413) 499-9371.

Fishing Derby on Stockbridge Bowl

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club is sponsoring its annual Spring Fishing Derby on Sunday, May 19 at the Stockbridge Bowl Boat Ramp. It will run from dawn until 1:00 pm. Cash prizes of $10.000 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 $15.00 and post-registration is $20.00.

Food and drinks will be available.

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.

Proof of fishing license is required

Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) Officer Tara Carlow wants fishermen to remember to have a paper copy or a screen shot/picture of their fishing license available for MEP Officers or landowners to check. Personally, last week she checked eight fly-fishermen on the Deerfield River and five of them could not produce a license for her, due to the cellular coverage in that area. Two of them were commercial float guides and after checking when she got back in service, two of the five did not have licenses at all. One was a fishing guide. (Ooh! That’s a good way to lose a guiding license).

MEP has one dispatch center, sometimes with one dispatcher working, for the entire state. They also handle traffic for their busy coastal missions. They cannot be continually running fishing licenses, and tying up the radio for fishermen who are supposed to have a legible copy on their person. The civil fine for not being able to display your license is $120. She is working with club presidents to help get the word out to the fishing community. It may seem like a minor problem, but for her to check five people in a row with the same violation, is not minor and something has to change.

Berkshire Outdoorsman

Hunting and fishing in the Berkshires, MA

Category Archives: Trout fishing