MassWildlife staff honored

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Several staff from the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) were recently honored with awards for their public service to fisheries, wildlife, and conservation.  Dr. Mark Tisa, Assistant Director of Fisheries, Dr. Jon Regosin, Chief of Conservation Science, from MassWildlife and Rich Lehan, General Counsel for the DFG were part of a multi-agency group honored by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) New England Regional office with a Bronze Medal Award.  This medal is EPA’s third highest honor and is presented by regional offices to recognize exceptional, distinguished, or heroic individual and group achievements.  It is uncommon for recipients of this award to be given to non-EPA staff

The multi-agency team consisted of representatives of EPA New England and EPA Headquarters, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, Massachusetts DFG, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and the Connecticut Attorney General’s Office.  EPA and the states of Massachusetts and Connecticut discussed potential approaches to clean up the Rest of River portion of the GE Housatonic River site.

The team focused on the need to address the risks from PCBs to humans, fish, wildlife, and other organisms while avoiding, mitigating, or minimizing the impacts of the cleanup on the unique ecological character of the Housatonic River.  As stated in the nomination application by EPA staff, “Thanks to the partnerships formed during this process with the states, the program and the public can be assured that this difficult cleanup decision will be made based upon sound science and the best available information and in an open and transparent manner.”  *****

The 22nd Annual Harry A. Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby will take place on Saturday, June 7, 2014 at the Frank Controy Pavilion at Onota Lake in Pittsfield, MA. from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.  No fishing license is required (Free fishing weekend for the state) The derby is open to the public and its purpose is to raise money for the Jimmy Fund – Dana Farber Cancer Institute For Children. All of the proceeds will be donated to the Jimmy Fund in memory of Harry A. Bateman a former member of Berkshire County Jimmy Fund Council, 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 are given away to the winners of the fishing derby (8 for the Children 4  Adults and 3 that can be won by adults or children)  There is a special category for those fishing with a bow & arrow.  All fish must be weighed in at noon. and can be caught at Onota Lake from  boat or shore.  Fee, which includes food and beverage, is $10 for adults and $5 for Children 14 years and younger.  There is a ticket raffle and many other great prizes.  

 

For any information contact Steve Bateman at 413-464-5035 or by email home:iggnatz@msn.com. *****

 

The picture?   Well, three and a half year old Hunter Proper has been having a good year of fishing, catching some 9 rainbow trout.  But nothing compared to the lunker carp he latched onto recently.    While fishing at the Onota Lake Causeway, using his little Spiderman fishing pole with a low weight line test and worms, he hooked a 14 lb 14 oz carp which immediately took off and fought him for a half hour.  His dad Justin had to help him hold the pole lest the fish yank it right out of his hands, but Hunter caught it all by himself.  Don’t you know, there were 10 other fishermen there witnessing the battle and not one had a net.  So he just dragged it up on shore.  It turned out to be a 30 inch fish with a 19 inch girth.  Rather than mount it, they will have a carved reproduction made of it.  *****

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:  Westfield River in Becket, Chester, Huntington, Middlefield and Russell; Housatonic River in Hinsdale, Dalton, Stockbridge and Lee; Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida, Hoosic River in Clarksburg, Ashfield Pond, North Pond, Onota Lake, Upper Highland Lake, Otis Reservoir, Goose Pond and Laurel Lake. *****

Over this long weekend, you might want to take a moment or two to remember and thank those who sacrificed so much in defense of our country.

 

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

 

Efforts being made to welcome the Common Loon in Massachusetts

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The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) is interested in receiving loon sighting reports this spring and summer.  Reports of birds with chicks are of particular interest.  For years, DFW has been monitoring loons nesting in the state.  Common Loons, listed as a Species of Special Concern in the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act, returned to nest in Massachusetts in 1975 after being absent as a breeding bird in the state for almost a century.

According to the DFW, from 1975 to 1983 loon pair activity was only observed on the Quabbin Reservoir.  In 1984, loon activity was also observed on the Wachusett Reservoir.   By 1986, loon nesting activity began to spread to other water bodies in the state.  In 2012, thirty five territorial loon pairs were documented on 13 lakes and ponds in the state.  Submit loon pair sighting reports via MassWildlife’s electronic Vernal Pool and Rare Species VPRS Information System, an online data submittal and mapping application, or email: mass.wildlife@state.ma.us, or send by postal mail to “Loon Survey”, DFW, Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program, 100 Hartwell Street, Suite 230, West Boylston, MA 01583.

In addition to monitoring loon activity, DFW has been partnering with other agencies and organizations to improve nesting sites for loons.   Recently, the Biodiversity Research Institute (BRI), based in Gorham, Maine provided funding for 18 loon rafts to be placed on reservoirs where loons have been attempting to nest.  Common Loons cannot walk well and are very awkward on land. They only come on to land in spring to breed and build their nest within a few feet of the shoreline. This is not a problem in water bodies with constant water levels, but for loons nesting on reservoir shorelines, fluctuating water levels can be a problem. If water levels rise, the nest and eggs flood and will not hatch. If water levels drop more than 6 to 12 inches the nest will be abandoned because the loon cannot reach the nest.

To reduce losses on reservoirs, loon rafts are constructed of cedar logs, foam floatation, and wire with vegetation placed on the raft to appear as if the raft is a small island.  Predator canopies are added to protect the nests from predation by other birds.  The raft is floated and anchored in the loon territory. Because the raft floats, it protects the nest and eggs from being flooded or stranded.  Some loons utilize the rafts immediately; others may take a few years to use the raft.  This month, loon rafts will be deployed at the DCR Wachusett and Quabbin Reservoirs and on reservoirs operated by the Fitchburg and Pittsfield water departments where loon pairs have been reported.

There is no mistaking the sound of a loon at twilight.  Late last summer, I had the thrill of having one diving close to my boat as I was bass fishing.   Seeing and hearing that bird was the highlight of my fishing last year.  *****

In his monthly report to the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen, Andrew Madden, DFW Western District Manager noted that the Division recently acquired 75 acres of land in the Town of Windsor.   The parcel consists of wooded wetlands with some hardwoods on the uplands.  It should be very good habitat for moose, deer, bear and snowshoe hare among other species, he said.  The property, which is located on Rte 8A between Rte 9 and Rte 116, abuts the Savoy Wildlife Management Area (WMA) on three sides and will improve access to existing protected lands.

When added to the existing Savoy WMA, the total protected acreage amounts to about 970 acres, all of it open to the public for passive recreation – hunting, fishing, trapping, hiking, bird watching, etc.   No motorized vehicles allowed on WMA’s. *****

Free fishing days, no licenses required, are coming up:  In ME they are May 31 and June 1, in MA they are June 7 and 8, in NH it is June 7, in VT it is June 14 and in NY the days are June 28 and 29.   Good chance to try some of those fabled waters that you have always wanted to fish – the Beaverkill, AuSable, Battenkill, Penobscott and others .  Sorry, CT and RI free days have already come and gone. *****

Chris Porter, spokesman for the Onota Fishing Club reported that they had over 200 people participating in the Wild Acres fishing derby which took place on April 26.   Approximately 15 members from the Fishing Club were on hand for the event and they assisted some 150 kids with baiting, catching, netting, cleaning, etc., as well as providing poles for kids that needed them.

Over 50 trout were caught with some large rainbows included in that number.  Twelve tagged fish were caught with each young angler receiving a trophy for it.  All of the fish were again donated this year by Lyon Aviation.  Over 400 hamburgers, hot dogs and breakfast sandwiches were served.  All involved had a great time in spite of the rainy weather.  Incidentally, the entire event was free to the public, much to the amazement of many parents.   *****

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:  Hoosic River in Cheshire and Adams, Walker Brook in Becket and Chester, Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and  Florida; Westfield River in Chester, Chesterfield, Cummington, Huntington, Middlefield and Worthington; Hubbard River in Granville, Littleville Lake and Norwich Pond in Huntington, Pontoosuc Lake, Goose Pond, Laurel Lake, Lake Buel, York Lake, Windsor Lake in North Adams, Otis Reservoir, Onota Lake, Stockbridge Bowl, Windsor Pond in Windsor, Housatonic River in Pittsfield(SW), Lee and Stockbridge (C&R), Hop Brook in Lee and Tyringham, Konkapot River in Monterey, New Marlborough and Sheffield;  and the Buck and Clam Rivers in Sandisfield. *****

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

 

Youth turkey hunters have a successful opening day

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The rain didn’t dampen the spirits of a number of youths who took to the woods last Saturday to bag a wild turkey.  That day marked the opening of the Youth Turkey Hunt day which was reserved just for youths 12-17 years of age.  Several sportsmen’s clubs in our area including the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club (SSC), Lee Sportsmen’s Association (LSA), Cheshire Rod & Gun Club (CR&G) , East Mountain Sportsmen’s Club and the Worthington Rod & Gun Club  participated in the youth hunt program.  This year I covered the LSA.

 

Of the 7 youths that participated in the LSA hunt, 4 of them were successful and bagged one jake (sexually immature male wild turkey) and three toms.  The largest tom weighed 22 ½ lbs and was bagged by Hunter Briggs.   His dad Rob was quite proud of him because two toms were so close together, he could have taken both with one shot.  Instead, he waited until the two separated to take his shot.  That’s the type of sportsmanship that is taught in the Youth Turkey Hunt Program.   Matt Driscoll weighed in a respectable bird, one weighing 20+ lbs which had an 8 inch beard.  He took it with a 40 yard shot using a 20 gauge shotgun.  Other hunters included Brian Dubois, Travis Bush, Connor Larock, Liam Shields and Andrew Murray.  Mentors included Rob and Cliff Briggs, Matt Ranzoni, Todd Bush, Bob Jones, Mark Bartini, and Stone Burdick.  Apologies if I missed anyone.

One team got stuck up on Beartown Mountain and rescuers had to be dispatched.  When they arrived at the clubhouse, they were razzed by fellow hunters saying. “You know they close roads for a reason, don’t you?”

 

Once everyone returned, they were treated to a tasty lunch, had their pictures taken and learned how to process the birds.  Not much of the bird was wasted.  In addition to the meat, feathers were saved for decorations, fly tying; etc., the beards and feet were saved for display, some bones were saved to make turkey calls, and the spurs were saved to make necklaces.

Meanwhile, the folks at the SSC also had a great hunt.  Of the twelve young hunters there, eight were successful.  The other four took shots at turkeys but missed. Participating in that hunt were Ryan Havel, Zachary Stoll-Tinker, Nick Bryant, Nick Errichetto, Jackson Cunningham, Michael Buffoni Jr, Ryan Smyth, Jack O’Brien, Kade Groeber, Nick Puntin, Nick Powers and Chris Massini.  Click onto Berkshireoutdoorsman.com to see their picture.

No word was received as to how the other local clubs did.  Similar events were conducted all across the state and according to Andrew Madden, DFW Western District Manager, some 43 birds were checked in electronically that day and surely others were probably checked in physically.  *****

 

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:  Westfield River in Becket, Chester, Cummington, Huntington, Middlefield, Russell, Savoy and Windsor; Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Greenwater Pond, North Pond, Upper Highland Lake, Town Brook in Lanesborough, Laurel Lake, Goose Pond, Lake Garfield, Big Pond, Otis Reservoir, Onota Lake, Richmond Pond, Stockbridge Bowl, Green River and Hemlock Brook in Williamstown.  Tiger trout were stocked into Big Pond, Otis Reservoir and Stockbridge Bowl.

 

Thanks to Elna Castonguay for providing the stocking information.  She is the very pleasant and helpful receptionist at the DFW Western District Headquarters in Dalton.  After 30 years of dedicated service, she is retiring from the Division on May 16.  Maybe some of us should stop up there this week and hassle her one last time. *****

 

Next Sunday, from dawn until 3 PM, the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club will be having its annual spring fishing derby at the Stockbridge Bowl boat ramp.  $100 prizes will be awarded for the heaviest trout or salmon, pickerel, bass and bullhead.  Free lures will be given to all kids 12 and under.  Pre-registration fee is $10, post-registration is $15.Tickets are available at the Minkler Insurance Agency in Stockbridge. *****

 

The Lee Sportsmen’s Club will be conducting a basic pistol class on May 19.  Contact Larry Karlquist at (413)-442-7807 for more information.

 

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

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Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club youth turkey hunters. Top of stairs to bottom; Ryan Havel, Zachary Stoll-Tinker, Nick Bryant, Nick Errichetto,
Jackson Cunningham, Michael Buffoni Jr, Ryan Smyth, Jack O’Brien, Kade Groeber, Nick Puntin, Nick Powers, Chris Massini (not in picture)

Four honored at BCLS Conte Banquet

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The Cheshire Rod & Gun Club banquet hall was packed for the Silvio O. Conte Awards Banquet which was held on the evening of April 19.  The award winners included: John Mange of Stephentown, NY- 2013 Sportsman of the Year, Fran Majchrowski of Dalton- John Zuber Lifetime Achievement Award, Dennis Regan, Berkshire County Director of the HVA – Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award and the late Sarah (Sally) Bell, – posthumous Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award.  They were nominated by the various sportsmen’s clubs which make up the BCLS.  All of the recipients were selected because of their long time dedication and commitment to preserving our open spaces, preserving our clean waters or their willingness to teach future generations about the outdoors and outdoor sports. Their individual feats were highlighted in my March 16 column.

Mange’s award was in recognition of his dedication, leadership and committal to the sportsmen of Massachusetts. In his acceptance speech, John mentioned how fortunate he was to have friends and family supporting him in his efforts. Deflecting praise of himself, he complimented his fellow sportsmen for being very generous with their time. “There are a lot of dedicated sportsmen who also give a lot of their time. Someone has to do it…..all of the time” he said. (If I may add, it is the example that John sets that inspires the others). John also received citations from State Senator Benjamin Downing representing the Senate and State Rep William “Smitty” Pignatelli representing the House.

Regan’s award was in recognition of his dedication to providing leadership and assurance to provide a clean and vibrant watershed along the Housatonic River. In his acceptance speech, Regan thanked the League and commented that he had worked with it on several occasions and that he had a great deal of respect for it and all that it does.

Majchrowski’s award was in recognition of his unwavering dedication to the introduction and perpetuation of the ideals of sportsmen in Berkshire County.   He mentioned that there were a lot of people/organizations who helped his school outdoor club over the years, such as the folks at the DFW, John Pickwell of Wohrles, Jeff Diefendorf from Friedman Steel, the Dalton American Legion, Wayne Walton from LP Adams, John Ferris, Chuck Landon and the many sportsmen who donated wild game for the meals.

In honoring the late Sally Bell, BCLS President Mark Jester read a very complimentary letter which was written by Tad Ames of the Berkshire Natural Resources Council. “If a Berkshire Outdoor Hall of Fame is ever created, Sally will be the unanimous choice on the first ballot”, he wrote. Fish and Wildlife Board Chairman George (Gige) Darey accepted the plaque on Sally’s behalf. Speaking on behalf of Sally and the Berkshire County sportsmen, he gave perhaps his greatest talk that this scribe has ever heard him give, one that was totally unscripted and from the heart. *****

The Berkshire Hatchery Foundation will be holding a kid’s fishing derby at the lower pond next Saturday, from 9 to 10:30 AM.   Please let them know if you are coming by emailing http://www.berksfish.com/events.html and giving the number of children attending.  Children under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult. *****

The following waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout by the DFW last week:  Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington; Ashfield Pond in Ashfield, Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Chickley River in Charlemont and Hawley, Cold River in Charlemont, Florida and Savoy; Westfield River in Chester, Chesterfield, Cummington, Huntington, Middlefield and Worthington; Housatonic River in Hinsdale, Dalton, Lee and Stockbridge, Hoosic River in Clarksburg, North Pond in Florida, Williams River in West Stockbridge and Great Barrington, West Brook in Lee and Great Barrington, Bennett Brook and Plunkett Lake in Hinsdale, Littleville Lake in Huntington, Beartown Brook and Greenwater Brook in Lee, Goose Pond Brook  in Lee and Tyringham, Konkapot River in New Marlborough, Monterey and Sheffield, Lake Buel and Lake Garfield in Monterey, Farmington River in Otis and Sandisfield, Trout Brook in Peru, Larrywaug Brook and Stockbridge Bowl in Stockridge, and Windsor Pond in Windsor.

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

 

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Pictured left to right:  Mark Jester BCLS President, Dennis Regan, George”Gige” Darey, Fran Majchrowski, John Mange and Karen Kruszyna.  As mentioned in my April 20 column, Jester and Kruszya received important Mass Sportsmen’s Council awards..

Spring turkey hunting season opens tomorrow

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Hard to believe the turkey hunting season is beginning its 34th year in Massachusetts. The spring season runs from April 28 to May 24.

At the time of colonial settlement the wild turkey was widespread in Massachusetts, ranging from Cape Cod to the Berkshires. As settlement progressed; however, hardwood forests were cut and the range of the turkey began to shrink. By the early 1800s turkeys were rare in the state, and the last known native bird was killed on Mt. Tom in 1851. Fortunately, conservation and wildlife organizations intervened, and the wild turkey made a dramatic recovery. Between 1972 and 1973, 37 birds were captured in New York and released in southern Berkshire County. The new flock grew slowly at first, but expanded rapidly after about 1976 with the estimated fall 1978 population totaling about 1,000 birds. Supplemented by an overflow from adjacent states, turkeys ranged throughout most parts of Massachusetts west of the Connecticut River. In-state transplants of the birds, conducted from 1979 to 1996, expanded the range of the bird into the central, northeastern and southeastern parts of the state.

Back in 1980 there was an estimated 1,250 turkey hunters and 72 turkeys were harvested.  Last year some 21,115 hunters applied for turkey permits and they bagged close to 3,000 birds. (2,778 in the spring and about 200 in the fall seasons).  The estimated fall population of turkeys now exceeds 15,000 birds.  The wild turkey was designated the official state game bird of Massachusetts in 1991.

Here are some reminders from MassWildlife: A permit is required to hunt them. An official green safety sticker must be attached to the firearm such that it is visible to the hunter when sighting down the barrel. Spring hunting hours are ½ hour before sunrise to 12:00 noon. .The annual bag limit is 2 turkeys per year either by: (a) 2 bearded birds in spring season (1 per day) with NO fall turkey hunting allowed, or (b) 1 bearded bird in spring season and 1 bird of either sex in fall season. No hunter may take 2 birds in the fall season.

Turkey hunters can check their harvested bird online. Immediately after harvest, the hunter must fill out and affix the tag from the turkey permit on the harvested turkey.  The turkey must be officially “checked” either online via the MassFishHunt system or at a traditional check station within 48 hours of harvest and before the bird is processed for food or for taxidermy. One can find a check station near you at mass.gov/dfw/checkstation.

 

If checking your game online, the MassFishHunt system will generate a confirmation number after you submit all information; this confirmation number must be written on the harvest tag that is attached to the turkey. (The confirmation number serves as the official seal)  The tag with confirmation number (or metal seal) must remain on the bird until it is processed for food or for taxidermy.

Turkey hunters should read the regulations (Page 32 of the Fish & Wiildlife Guide) for more information.

It will be interesting to see how the hunters do this spring because many claim that the turkey flock is down this year.   Remember, turkey hunting is one of the most dangerous forms of hunting.   Use your noggin! *****

 

The Stockbridge Police Department will present an NRA Home Firearm Safety Course on Monday, May 5 at 6:00 PM in the Community Room at the Town Hall. This free course is exclusively for women who are residents of the Town of Stockbridge. If there are firearms in your home owned by family members, or if you think you may be interested in learning more about firearm safety and the shooting sports, this course is a great way to get started.

The four hour non-shooting course teaches students the basic knowledge, skills, and explains the attitude necessary for the safe handling and storage of firearms and ammunition in the home.  Students are taught NRA’s three rules for safe gun handling, primary causes of firearms accidents, firearm parts, how to unload certain action types, ammunition components, cleaning, care, safe storage of firearms in the home and more

The application deadline is 8:00 AM on May 1 and applications are available at the Stockbridge Police Dept. *****

The Greylock Bass Club reports the following 2013 Results: Angler of the Year was Bill Gates, 2nd – Chip Mcann, 3rd – -Dave Benham, 4th – Jim Underhill and 5th – Joe Chague. The lunker largemouth for the year weighed in at 4 lbs 9.5 oz, caught and released by Bill Gates.

In 2014 they will be fishing 6 tournaments in Mass and New York. They also will host a 2 person Open Bass Tournament on June 1 at Pontoosuc Lake. Check local sporting good stores for more information   *****

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week: Hoosic River in Cheshire and Adams, Clesson Brook in Ashfield and Buckland, South River in Ashfield, Westfield River in Becket, Chester, Chesterfield, Cummington, Huntington, Middlefield, Russell, Savoy and Windsor; Potash Brook in Blandford and Russell, Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Dry Brook and South Brook in Cheshire, West Branch Brook in Chesterfield and Worthington, Sackett Brook in Dalton and Pittsfield, Swift River in Ashfield and Goshen, Stones Brook in Goshen, Kinderhook Creek in Hancock, Little River and Norwich Pond in Huntington, Hop Brook in Lee and Tyringham, Pontoosuc Lake in Pittsfield and Lanesborough, Yokun Brook in Lenox, York Lake in New Marlborough, Windsor Lake in North Adams, Big Pond and Otis Reservoir in Otis, Berry Pond, Housatonic River (SW) and Onota Lake in Pittsfield; Mill Pond in Plainfield, Richmond Pond in Richmond, Buck and Clam Rivers in Sandisfield, Westfield Brook in Windsor, and Bronson Brook in Worthington.

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

 

 

Massachusetts Sportsmen’s Council honored Jester, Kruszyna

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The Massachusetts Sportsmen’s Council (MSC) is a statewide umbrella organization serving as a strong, unified voice to preserve the rights of Massachusetts’ sportsmen and women and other conservationists with a shared interest in protecting and enhancing our natural resources.
The MSC is currently comprised of fourteen member organizations (Berkshire County League of Sportsmen is one) representing approximately 300 sportsmen clubs and thousands of sportsmen and women concerned with man’s fragile relationship with the out-of-doors.

It was formed in 1929 by a handful of foresighted sportsmen who recognized the need to organize under one statewide body.  It laid a strong foundation by working for the creation of the independent state Fisheries and Wildlife Board, securing dedicated funding for the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, and guaranteeing access to the Great Ponds of the Commonwealth.
Today, it continues to build on that strong foundation to insure that the future of hunting, fishing, trapping, and other forms of outdoor recreation in the Commonwealth is preserved for our children and future generations

Last Saturday evening, at its annual Banquet and Awards Night, the MSC awarded the Raymond L. Gribbons Award to Mark Jester of Pittsfield.  This award recognizes a sportsman who exemplifies the values and respect for our natural resources that Ray held and demonstrated for nearly a century.    Jester has been a delegate to the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) for 32 years and served as its President for 16 years.  He was an officer of the Lakewood Sportsmen’s Club and is currently the Vice President of the Lenox Sportsmen’s Club.   He sits on the Board of Directors of the Gun Owners Action League, is a member of the State Zebra Mussel Committee, is a delegate to the MSC, and much more.  He is the driving force in getting the Archery in the Schools Program established in our local schools.  He was named the BCLS Year 2000 Sportsman of the Year.

Karen Kruszyna, of Cheshire received the Lillian Gribbons Award.  This award is given in recognition of the tireless efforts of a sportswoman who has dedicated her time quietly and unnoticed for the benefit of all sportsmen of the Commonwealth.  She is a member of many organizations including the Adams Outdoor for Youth (AOFY), Adams Agricultural Fair Committee and is a Board member of the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club.  She does much to get kids of this county outdoors.  She is always there to help out at the annual Youth Outreach Fishing Derbies at Reynolds Pond in Cheshire, the BCLS functions such as the Conte Banquet, the AOFY fund raisers and more.  She received the BCLS year 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award.

Congratulations to both for the well deserved recognition. *****

Recently, my wife Jan and I were away on a cruise to the eastern Caribbean area with friends  Michael  and Claire Shepard of Dalton.  No chance for fishing off the ship as we were on Deck 10 and 11 and traveling at a speed of 20 knots.  The only successful fishing that we saw was on St John Island near St Thomas Island.   As we walked along its shore something whizzed over our heads and exploded not more than a dozen feet in front of us. No it wasn’t incoming mortar but rather a pelican that slammed into the water and nailed a nice fish.     It and several other pelicans had good fishing that day.

I asked a local guide if the fishing was any good in that bay and he said yes but one couldn’t eat the fish.  The cove was too shallow and contained too much salinity, so much so that the fish there were actually toxic.  Fishermen had to fish outside the cove in deeper water in order to catch edible fish.  He said the only way the natives knew if a fish was edible was to cut a piece  off  and toss it to their dogs.  If the dogs ate it, the fish was edible, if they didn’t, it was toxic. Somehow they knew by the smell.*****

While I was away, the DFW had stocked the following waters with trout through April 11:  Hoosic River (South Branch) in Cheshire and Adams, Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington; Westfield River in Becket, Chester, Chesterfield, Cummington, Huntington, Middlefield, Savoy, Windsor and Worthington; Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Housatonic River (Southwest Branch)in Pittsfield, Williams River in West Stockbridge, Konkapot River in Monterey and New Marlborough, Farmington River in Otis and Sandisfield, Lake Mansfield in Great Barrington, Plunkett Reservoir in Hinsdale, Windsor Lake in North Adams, Goose Pond, Laurel Lake, Pontoosuc Lake, Onota Lake, and Stockbridge Bowl.

Subject to alterations or cancellations, the following additional waters were scheduled to be stocked last week:  Ashfield Pond in Ashfield, Greenwater Pond and Yokum Brook in Becket, Walker Brook in Becket and Chester, Housatonic River in Hinsdale and Dalton, Wahconah Falls Brook in Dalton, Pelham Brook in Charlemont and Rowe, North Pond  in Florida, Upper Highland Lake in Goshen, Littleville Lake in Huntington, Town Brook in Lanesborough, Housatonic River (C&R) in Lee and Stockbridge, Factory Brook in Middlefield, Dunbar Brook in Monroe, Lake Buel and Lake Garfield in Monterey, Pelham Lake in Rowe, Depot Brook in Washington, Green River and Hemlock Brook in Williamstown, and Windsor Brook and Windsor Pond in Windsor.  *****

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club is offering the Ultimate Firearm License Course on April 27 to benefit youth activities at the club. This one course qualifies participants to apply for licenses in MA, CT, UT, FL, ME and NH, which makes them legal in 39 states.  For information, visit www.StockbridgeSportsmensClub.org. *****

The Wild Acres Free Fishing Derby for children and seniors will be held Saturday, April 26th at Wild Acres from 8:00am – 2:00pm.  This years’ event is sponsored by Lyon Aviation and will be hosted by The Onota Fishing Club.  Onota Fishing Club members will be on hand to help out participants with baiting, catching and cleaning all fish.  Poles and bait will be available for all children who need them.  Trophies will be given to all participants who catch a tagged fish.  Beverages, breakfast sandwiches, hot dogs and hamburgers will be free to all children (14 and under) and seniors (65 and older).  All participants must park in upper level at Wild Acres Pavillion.  Handicap parking will be available.  Please call Robert Van Der Kar at 499-9359 with any questions. *****

 Lastly, to the mentors and youths who will be participating in the Youth Turkey Hunt next Saturday, have a safe and enjoyable hunt. 

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

 

Spring trout fishing is upon us

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Close to 500,000 brook, brown, rainbow and tiger trout will be stocked this spring from the DFW five hatcheries located in Sandwich, Palmer, Belchertown, Sunderland and Montague.  The Western District should get about 100,000 of them.  It has been a challenging year for the Division’s trout hatchery managers between the drought conditions that prevailed much of last summer and the extremely cold, icy and snow conditions that have prevailed this past winter.

Nevertheless, close to 500,000 fish will be stocked this spring, coupled with the more than 67,000 12+ inch trout stocked last fall should provide some excellent fishing in the coming months.  Due to the delayed spring thaw, trout stocking could not begin until the last week of March or the first week in April, beginning with the Cape area and then moving westward as the ice and snow melts. 

Here are some 2014  trout stocking facts provided by Mass DFW: 41% of the fish average over 14 inches, 71% of the fish average over 12 inches, 195,000 rainbows will average over 14 inches, 71,000 rainbows will average over 12 inches, 12,000 rainbows will average between 9 and 12 inches, 500 brown trout will be over 18 inches, 43,000 brown trout will average over 12 inches, 81,000 brown trout average between 9 and 12 inches, 1,250 brook trout will average over 15 inches, 31,200 brook trout will average over 12 inches, 38,200 brook trout between 9 and 12 inches, 10,000 brook trout between 6 and 9 inches and 4,700 tiger trout that will average over 14 inches.

Anglers can check the DFW weekly trout stocking schedule pages for information about stocking in each district, or contact individual district offices. The schedules will be updated every Friday between March and Memorial Day.

.The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked last week subject to alterations or cancellations:  Pontoosuc Lake, Onota Lake, Laurel Lake, Stockbridge Bowl and the Farmington River.

Get your fishing equipment ready, oil the reel, replace the old line, patch up the boots, etc.  Don’t forget to print out your fishing license.  Pick up a copy of Trout Unlimited’s Anglers Guide to Trout Fishing in Massachusetts to find out where to go and what to use.  (The Bookstore in Lenox has a new supply of them).  Tell the kids, mom and gramps to get ready, too, because you are taking them this year.  There will be an awful lot of trout out there to catch and a lot of hours may have to be devoted to catching them.  It’s tough, but hey, somebody has to do it. *****

This Thursday evening, Rich Strolis of Catching Shadows Custom Flies will be the guest speaker at the Taconic Chapter of TU meeting at the Bass Water Grill in Cheshire. For him, fly tying is as much of a passion as fly-fishing, and this is something that he truly believes is an integral part of becoming a solid angler.  He will offer a fly tying demonstration and talk about a variety of styles and types of fly patterns from both simple to complex that will accommodate tiers of all skill sets.  Whether you are a beginner who wants to learn the basics, or a seasoned veteran who wants to brush up on some of your skills he will have something for you. *****

 

The event is free and open to the public.  Social hour starts at 5 PM, the presentation at 6 PM and dinner off of the menu (optional) to follow at 7 PM.  For more information, contact Ron Wojcik at (413) 684-4141 or rwojcik@bcn.net.  *****

The Berkshire Hatchery Foundation will be holding a kid’s fishing derby at the lower pond next Saturday, from 9 to 10:30 AM.   Please let them know if you are coming by emailing http://www.berksfish.com/events.html and giving the number of children attending.  Children under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult. *****

MassWildlife reminds us that black bears are emerging from their winter dens and seeking food and it’s time to take down bird feeders. In many cases, bears will ignore natural foods such as skunk cabbage and instead head to the nearest birdfeeder for a good meal. To avoid this problem, they are asking property owners to be proactive by removing bird feeders and other potential bear foods promptly and taking other preventative measures. 

 

The bear range is expanding eastward and some residents in eastern Massachusetts may notice bear activity in the coming months and years. Taking action now, by removing feeders and securing trash, will help avoid conflicts with bears now and in the future. “If food such as bird seed, pet food, unsecured trash or dumpsters are easy for bears to find, conflicts can occur that pose hazards to both bears and people.” says Laura Conlee, DFW Wildlife Biologist. Removing bird feeders will not create a problem for birds as feeding stations only supplement available natural foods.

 

 Click onto the MassWildlife website for more tips on preventing bear conflicts. *****

 

Parting reminder:  Falling into cold water (less than 50 degrees) can cause a cold shock response that makes breathing difficult and can lead to rapid drowning, even for experienced swimmers.  The wearing of a dry suit when kayaking in cold water is recommended as well as wearing a personal floatation device (PFD).  Kayaking with a buddy is also recommended.  In Massachusetts all canoe and kayak occupants must wear a US Coast Guard approved PFD from September 15 to May 15.  Readers are probably getting sick of reading this message every year and but I ask your understanding.  Each year there are new people taking up the paddling, fishing and hunting sports and may not be aware of the regulations and potential dangers involved with them.

 

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