Looking for fish variety? Try Onota Lake

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In the most recent issue of Massachusetts Wildlife Magazine, Richard Hartley, DFW Warm/Coolwater Project Leader wrote an excellent article entitled 50 Years of Fishing Pins. It is a history of the MA Sportfishing Awards Program wherein “pins” are awarded to anglers who haul in trophy fish. These pins are awarded for 22 categories of fish species in two age categories (adult and youth). At the end of each year, the angler who caught the largest fish in each category is presented with a gold award pin and a plaque from DFW. The following information comes from Hartley’s article.

Of the nearly 3,000 named lakes in the Commonwealth, Onota Lake holds top honors for having produced pins for the most eligible species (17 out of 22). Pontoosuc Lake didn’t do bad either, coming in 4th in the State (numbes not available).

Over the 50 years, nearly 26,000 fish entries have been submitted from over 4,000 individual anglers. Largemouth bass holds the number one spot with over 3,100 pins awarded, followed by trout with approximately 2,860 pins, pickerel with 2,600, smallmouth bass with 2,400 and yellow perch with about 2,200.

The top bass water in the Commonwealth is Samson Pond in Carver with 89 pins and Onota Lake is 5th with 59 pins. Quabbin Reservoir/Swift River has garnered the most pins for trout with 334 of them. In second place is Onota Lake with 116.

77% of the pins were recorded during open water season followed by ice fishing (tip-up) with 21%. Fly fishing and bowfishing comprised the remaining 2%. Most of the pin fish (75%) were caught on live bait or worms while lures and plastic baits accounted for 15%. Most of the pin fish were caught in May followed by the month of April and then June.

So there you have it folks, some of the best fishing is right here in the Berkshires. Grab a rod, a kid or two and “go git ‘em.*****

Fishing is good for you. At least that’s what Dame Juliana Berners wrote in 1496 in her book Treatyse of Fysshynge with an Angle. She wrote: “Youre aige maye more flowre and the more lenger to endure”. I think that means fish and you will live a longer and happier life.

I love those old fish sayings. Apparently you do too based upon the positive response I received from listing some in my April 15, 2012 column. Well, here are a few more: “ The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope. ~John Buchan. “Only when the last tree has been felled, the last river poisoned and the last fish caught, will man know, that he cannot eat money.” – A Cree Indian saying. Anonymous wrote, “Bragging may not bring happiness, but no man having caught a large fish goes home through an alley.” He also wrote, “ An angler is a man who spends rainy days sitting around on the muddy banks of rivers doing nothing because his wife won’t let him do it at home”. Also, “Nothing makes a fish bigger than almost being caught.” This “Anonymous” character is a busy writer. Lastly, one for the ladies: “Give a man a fish and he has food for a day; teach him how to fish and you can get rid of him for the entire weekend”. ~Zenna Schaffer *****

Congratulations to Taconic High teacher Ron Wojcik of Windsor for concluding another successful after-school flyfishing class for six Taconic students. Last week they put their training to good use and fished an undisclosed pond. Ron thought of everything; not only did he provided pizza, but solicited a great mentor, Dr Herb Rod of Pittsfield, for his one lefthanded young fly flyfisher.

Dr. Rod is one of the best southpaw flyfisherman in the Berkshires. He had young Alex Kent casting his fly better than I could ever do on my best day. Other participating students were: Adam Delphia, Adam Sperlonga, Michael Boc, Joe Kozlowski and AJ bowman. In addition to Dr Rod, and Wojcik other mentors included TU members William Travis, Allen Gray and me. *****

The following local waters were stocked with trout last week: Konkapot River in Monterey, New Marlboro and Sheffield and the Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida. This could very well be the last of the spring stockings. *****

On May 7, I received an e-mail from Dennis Regan of the Housatonic Valley Association informing me that a Simon’s Rock student had discovered didymo in the Green River off of Boice Road in Great Barrington. As of this writing (Thursday morning) no public announcement has been issued confirming the finding; however, I learned that signs are posted there informing the public of its presence.

Didymo (also called “rock snot”) is an invasive freshwater alga that can form massive blooms in rivers and streams and potentially disrupt an ecosystem. They look slimy, but feel like wet cotton or wool and can damage the habitat by choking out bottom-dwellers and removing food organisms for fish and other aquatic species. They can be unwittingly spread by anglers and outdoor enthusiasts from one waterway to another through contaminated boots, fishing gear and boats.

Anglers and boaters are advised to help prevent its spread by scrubbing dirt and debris from anything that comes into contact with it. Equipment can be disinfected with a five percent salt solution or by scrubbing well with dish detergent. If disinfection is not possible, let equipment dry completely for at least 48 hours. (much longer for felt soled boots). You may want to consider having two sets of boots in order to move safely from one spot to another.

Fly Fishing season swinging into high gear

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For the fly fishermen, this is the time they have been waiting for, when the mayflies and various caddisflies start hatching in our waters. Anglers are anxiously awaiting the appearance of flies such as the Gray Fox, March Browns, Light Cahills, Sulphurs and others. Hatching as duns (sub-imagos with smoky or colored wings) most float on the water surface for a short time before flying to nearby vgetation before the birds get them. They will be around only a few days, transform into spinners (imagos with long tails and glassy clear wings), do their in-air mating dances, mate, drop their eggs into the waters, spread their wings fall into the water and die.

Thus begins the new cycle, the eggs hatch into nymphs which crawl along the river bottom hiding under rocks and woody or leafy debris for the next 360 days before they emerge again. When it is their time, they come up from the bottom and hatch in the surface film or climb onto rocks and branches and hatch there.

These insects don’t have mouths or stingers and are harmless so there is no need to swat or zap them. Trout feed on them as well as the birds. I don’t know which excites the fly fisherman more, actually catching fish or the mere sight of these delicate insects.

Flyfishermen are well aware of these life cycles and have flies that imitate each phase. They fish with weighted nymph flies along the river bottom, with emerger flies that imitate the nymph as they swim to the top just before hatching into duns, with dry flies which float on top of the surface that imitate the duns and with spent wing spinners flies.

To be a good fly fisherman, one has to become an entomologist of sorts, one who knows when the flies emerge, their habitat, size, color, traits, etc. They already know everything that I have mentioned above and are probably critiquing my every word. But the comments are directed primarily to the person who knows nothing about the sport and may be contemplating taking it up. If you are one, may I suggest that you tag along with an experienced flyfisher who would be more than happy to teach you about the sport. That will save you a lot of time of trial and error. But be careful, flyfishing can be extremely addictive. *****

The Twenty-first Annual Harry A. Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby will take place next Saturday at the Frank Controy Pavilion at Onota Lake in Pittsfield from 6:00 AM to noon. No fishing license is required because it is Free Fishing weekend in MA. Open to the public, 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.

Many trophies and prizes are given away to the winners of the fishing derby, 8 for the Children 4 for 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 a boat or the shore. Fishing tackle is given with the trophy prizes and two $100 cash prizes for heaviest trout. A sportsman award is given out to a child which includes a tackle box full of stuff. Fee is $10 Adults $5 for Children 14 years old and younger. Fee includes food & beverages. All children receive a free gift and a chance at winning a Mountain Bike. There is a raffle for other great prizes. For more information, contact Steve Bateman at 413-464-5035 or email iggnatz@msn.com. *****

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Clubs Fishing Derby was held on May 18 at Stockbridge Bowl. Largest Salmon was caught by Lino Dus of Pittsfield, 2 lbs, 18”, Largest Bullhead – Seth Slemp of Lee 1 lb, 5oz, 13 ½”, Largest Bass – Tim Fogarty, Gt Barrington, 3 lbs., 3oz, 18”, Largest Pickerel – Lucas Trumps, South Lee 2 lbs., 12oz, 22 ½”. Mike Soules, of Lee won the $300 raffle.

Age 12 and Under Winners: Largest Pickerel – Mason Colli, Stockbridge,1 lb. 13 oz., 20 ½”, Largest Trout- Brady Whalen, Gt Barrington 1 lb., 6oz, 15”, Largest Bullhead – Seth Slemp, Lee 1 lb., 5oz, 13 ½”. *****< The Lee Sportsmen’s Association will be conducting a NRA Basic Pistol Course on June 3 and June 6 from 5:30 to 9:00 PM. Graduates can then apply for their MA LTC Class A after successful completion. Pre registration required. The Cost is $100 which includes a one year membership in LSA. Learn pistol parts and operation, gun safety, shooting fundamentals, MA. laws, and more. Contact Larry K (413) 442-7807 for more information. ***** The following waters were scheduled to be stocked last week: Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington, Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Westfield River in Chester, Chesterfield, Cummington, Huntington, Middlefield, Russell, Windsor and Worthington; Housatonic River in Hinsdale, Dalton, Lee and Stockbridge; Walker Brook in Becket and Chester, Wahconah Falls Brook in Dalton, Bennett Brook in Hinsdale, Trout Brook in Peru, Greenwater Pond, North Pond, Littleville Lake, Goose Pond, Laurel Lake, Otis Reservoir, Big Pond, Onota Lake and Stockbridge Bowl. ***** This weekend, you might want to put down the fishing rod and spend a couple minutes remembering those who paid the ultimate price in defending our nation, especially the local men we lost this year.

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Fly Fishing season swinging into high gear
 
For the fly fishermen, this is the time they have been waiting for, when the mayflies and various caddisflies start hatching in our waters.   Anglers are anxiously awaiting the appearance of flies such as the Gray Fox, March Browns, Light Cahills, Sulphurs and others.  Hatching as duns (sub-imagos with smoky or colored wings) most float on the water surface for a short time before flying to nearby vgetation before the birds get them.  They will be around only a few days, transform into spinners (imagos with long tails and glassy clear wings), do their in-air mating dances, mate, drop their eggs into the waters, spread their wings fall into the water and die.  
 
Thus begins the new cycle, the eggs hatch into nymphs which crawl along the river bottom hiding under rocks and woody or leafy debris for the next 360 days before they emerge again.  When it is their time, they come up from the bottom and hatch in the surface film or climb onto rocks and branches and hatch there. 

These insects don’t have mouths or stingers and are harmless so there is no need to swat or zap them.  Trout feed on them as well as the birds.   I don’t know which excites the fly fisherman more, actually catching fish or the mere sight of these delicate insects. 

Flyfishermen are well aware of these life cycles and have flies that imitate each phase.  They fish with weighted nymph flies along the river bottom, with emerger flies that imitate the nymph as they swim to the top just before hatching into duns, with dry flies which float on top of the surface that imitate the duns and with spent wing spinners flies. 

To be a good fly fisherman, one has to become an entomologist of sorts, one who knows when the flies emerge, their habitat, size, color, traits, etc.  They already know everything that I have mentioned above and are probably critiquing my every word.  But the comments are directed primarily to the person who knows nothing about the sport and may be contemplating taking it up.  If you are one, may I suggest that you tag along with an experienced flyfisher who would be more than happy to teach you about the sport.  That will save you a lot of time of trial and error.  But be careful, flyfishing can be extremely addictive. *****

The Twenty-first Annual Harry A. Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby will take place next Saturday at the Frank Controy Pavilion at Onota Lake in Pittsfield from 6:00 AM to noon.   No fishing license is required because it is Free Fishing weekend in MA.   Open to the public, 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.

Many trophies and prizes are given away to the winners of the fishing derby, 8 for the Children 4 for 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 a boat or the shore.  Fishing tackle is given with the trophy prizes and two $100 cash prizes for heaviest trout. A sportsman award is given out to a child which includes a tackle box full of stuff.  Fee is $10 Adults $5 for Children 14 years old and younger. Fee includes food & beverages. All children receive a free gift and a chance at winning a Mountain Bike. There is a raffle for other great prizes.   For more information, contact Steve Bateman at 413-464-5035 or email iggnatz@msn.com.   *****

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Clubs Fishing Derby was held on May 18 at Stockbridge Bowl.  Largest Salmon was caught by Lino Dus of Pittsfield, 2 lbs, 18”, Largest Bullhead – Seth Slemp of Lee 1 lb, 5oz, 13 ½”, Largest Bass – Tim Fogarty, Gt Barrington, 3 lbs., 3oz, 18”, Largest Pickerel –  Lucas Trumps, South Lee 2 lbs., 12oz, 22 ½”.  Mike Soules, of  Lee won the $300 raffle.

Age 12 and Under Winners:  Largest Pickerel – Mason Colli, Stockbridge,1 lb. 13 oz., 20 ½”, Largest Trout- Brady Whalen, Gt Barrington 1 lb., 6oz, 15”, Largest Bullhead –  Seth Slemp, Lee   1 lb., 5oz, 13 ½”.  *****

The Lee Sportsmen’s Association will be conducting a NRA Basic Pistol Course on June 3 and June 6 from 5:30 to 9:00 PM.  Graduates can then apply for their MA LTC Class A after successful completion.  Pre registration required.  The Cost is $100 which includes a one year  membership in LSA.  Learn pistol parts and operation, gun safety, shooting fundamentals, MA. laws, and more.  Contact Larry K (413) 442-7807 for more information. *****

The following waters were scheduled to be stocked last week:  Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington, Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Westfield River in Chester, Chesterfield, Cummington, Huntington, Middlefield, Russell, Windsor and Worthington; Housatonic River in Hinsdale, Dalton, Lee and Stockbridge; Walker Brook in Becket and Chester, Wahconah Falls Brook in Dalton, Bennett Brook in Hinsdale, Trout Brook in Peru, Greenwater Pond, North Pond, Littleville Lake, Goose Pond, Laurel Lake, Otis Reservoir, Big Pond, Onota Lake and Stockbridge Bowl. *****

This weekend, you might want to put down the fishing rod and spend a couple minutes remembering those who paid the ultimate price in defending our nation, especially the local men we lost this year.

Fly Fishing season swinging into high gear

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For the fly fishermen, this is the time they have been waiting for, when the mayflies and various caddisflies start hatching in our waters.   Anglers are anxiously awaiting the appearance of flies such as the Gray Fox, March Browns, Light Cahills, Sulphurs and others.  Hatching as duns (sub-imagos with smoky or colored wings) most float on the water surface for a short time before flying to nearby vgetation before the birds get them.  They will be around only a few days, transform into spinners (imagos with long tails and glassy clear wings), do their in-air mating dances, mate, drop their eggs into the waters, spread their wings fall into the water and die. 

Thus begins the new cycle, the eggs hatch into nymphs which crawl along the river bottom hiding under rocks and woody or leafy debris for the next 360 days before they emerge again.  When it is their time, they come up from the bottom and hatch in the surface film or climb onto rocks and branches and hatch there. 

These insects don’t have mouths or stingers and are harmless so there is no need to swat or zap them.  Trout feed on them as well as the birds.   I don’t know which excites the fly fisherman more, actually catching fish or the mere sight of these delicate insects. 

Flyfishermen are well aware of these life cycles and have flies that imitate each phase.  They fish with weighted nymph flies along the river bottom, with emerger flies that imitate the nymph as they swim to the top just before hatching into duns, with dry flies which float on top of the surface that imitate the duns and with spent wing spinners flies. 

To be a good fly fisherman, one has to become an entomologist of sorts, one who knows when the flies emerge, their habitat, size, color, traits, etc.  They already know everything that I have mentioned above and are probably critiquing my every word.  But the comments are directed primarily to the person who knows nothing about the sport and may be contemplating taking it up.  If you are one, may I suggest that you tag along with an experienced flyfisher who would be more than happy to teach you about the sport.  That will save you a lot of time of trial and error.  But be careful, flyfishing can be extremely addictive. *****

The Twenty-first Annual Harry A. Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby will take place next Saturday at the Frank Controy Pavilion at Onota Lake in Pittsfield from 6:00 AM to noon.   No fishing license is required because it is Free Fishing weekend in MA.   Open to the public, 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.

Many trophies and prizes are given away to the winners of the fishing derby, 8 for the Children 4 for 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 a boat or the shore.  Fishing tackle is given with the trophy prizes and two $100 cash prizes for heaviest trout. A sportsman award is given out to a child which includes a tackle box full of stuff.  Fee is $10 Adults $5 for Children 14 years old and younger. Fee includes food & beverages. All children receive a free gift and a chance at winning a Mountain Bike. There is a raffle for other great prizes.   For more information, contact Steve Bateman at 413-464-5035 or email “mailto:iggnatz@msn.com”>iggnatz@msn.   *****

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Clubs Fishing Derby was held on May 18 at Stockbridge Bowl.  Largest Salmon was caught by Lino Dus of Pittsfield, 2 lbs, 18”, Largest Bullhead – Seth Slemp of Lee 1 lb, 5oz, 13 ½”, Largest Bass – Tim Fogarty, Gt Barrington, 3 lbs., 3oz, 18”, Largest Pickerel –  Lucas Trumps, South Lee 2 lbs., 12oz, 22 ½”.  Mike Soules, of  Lee won the $300 raffle.

Age 12 and Under Winners:  Largest Pickerel – Mason Colli, Stockbridge,1 lb. 13 oz., 20 ½”, Largest Trout- Brady Whalen, Gt Barrington 1 lb., 6oz, 15”, Largest Bullhead –  Seth Slemp, Lee   1 lb., 5oz, 13 ½”.  *****

The Lee Sportsmen’s Association will be conducting a NRA Basic Pistol Course on June 3 and June 6 from 5:30 to 9:00 PM.  Graduates can then apply for their MA LTC Class A after successful completion.  Pre registration required.  The Cost is $100 which includes a one year  membership in LSA.  Learn pistol parts and operation, gun safety, shooting fundamentals, MA. laws, and more.  Contact Larry K (413) 442-7807 for more information. *****

The following waters were scheduled to be stocked last week:  Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington, Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Westfield River in Chester, Chesterfield, Cummington, Huntington, Middlefield, Russell, Windsor and Worthington; Housatonic River in Hinsdale, Dalton, Lee and Stockbridge; Walker Brook in Becket and Chester, Wahconah Falls Brook in Dalton, Bennett Brook in Hinsdale, Trout Brook in Peru, Greenwater Pond, North Pond, Littleville Lake, Goose Pond, Laurel Lake, Otis Reservoir, Big Pond, Onota Lake and Stockbridge Bowl. *****

This weekend, you might want to put down the fishing rod and spend a couple minutes remembering those who paid the ultimate price in defending our nation, especially the local men we lost this year.

John Manikowski, a man of many talents

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Earlier this year, friend Craig Moffatt of Stockbridge and I were driving  to Becket to make the final salmon fry stockings into the Westfield River watershed, when we struck up a conversation about cooking fish and wild game.  I had some venison, rabbits and perch that I wanted to cook up.  Usually, I would just toss some butter into the frying pan and fry the stuff up.   This time I wanted to spend some time and cook it up right.   Craig mentioned a book entitled Wild Fish & Game Cookbook written by John Manikowski, and he later lent it to me.

 Upon opening the book, several things caught my attention.  The first was that it had some really unique recipes, like sautéed woodcock with oyster mushrooms, grilled wood duck with dried cherry sauce and grilled venison kabobs with Satay sauce.  This was a gourmet’s cookbook.

 The second thing was how the chapters were put together.   Interspersed among the various chapters were very interesting personal hunting or fishing stories about various trips the author and Moffatt had taken over the years to different parts of North America.   They were very well written and a joy to read.  There were also wonderful drawings and artwork, created by the author himself, interspersed throughout the book, including the outer hard cover. 

 The last thing that caught my attention was the fact that John Manikowski is a local fellow living in Mill River.   He is an outdoorsman, fisherman, wildlife artist, former partner in excellent restaurants specializing in game meals.  (Konkapot Kitchen Restaurant in Mill River, and the Charleston Restaurant in Hudson, a 4 star restaurant).  His illustrations have appeared in Field & Stream, Fly Rod & Reel and other outdoor magazines and newspapers.  Here I was reading a book filled with great recipes, great artwork, and great outdoor sports stories all prepared by a local author.  How cool is that? 

 I have not yet tried the recipes and refrain from evaluating them but I can say that I enjoyed everything about the book.  I loved his suggestions for side dishes and drinks to accompany the main courses.  If you can collect the recipe ingredients, this book is for you.  I believe the book printings are sold out but you can obtain some used books from Amazon.com.

 He then authored a second book and I borrowed that one also from Moffatt.   It is a soft -cover book entitled Fish, Grilled and Smoked.  It has 150 recipes in it.  I wondered how to obtain it so I clicked onto John’s web-site at johnmanikowski.com.    I was in for another surprise.  It turns out that he not only has written the cookbooks, but makes custom knives –  art knives, hunting and fishing knives, chef’s knives.   Though totally functional, his knives are painstakingly shaped works of art and are one of a kind.

 Some of his work is on display today at the United Church of New Marlborough, 243 Norfolk Road, Southfield, MA this weekend from 10AM to 6PM.  There will be carved knives, sculptures, drawings, magazine illustrations, etc., with the theme based mainly upon nature, streams, rivers and trees.   There might still be time to go there today and check them out. *****

 Free fishing days, no licenses required, are coming up:  In MA they are June 1 and 2, in NH it is June 1, in VT and ME it is June 6 and in NY the days are June 29 and 30. *****

Recently, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rick Sullivan honored 22 energy and environmental education programs at the 19th Annual Secretary’s Awards for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education.    The awards credited programs in the categories of energy conservation, environmental protection and recycling.   Winners were awarded $100 to $400 prizes. Paid for by the Massachusetts Environmental Trust, the awards are intended to fund further environmental education initiatives at the schools.     Congratulations to Morris Elementary School in Lenox, Grade 4, Teacher Julie Nelson for receiving an award.

Secretary Sullivan also recognized four U.S. Department of Education (USED) Green Ribbon Schools from Massachusetts. The award honors schools that are exemplary in reducing environmental impact and costs; improving the health and wellness of students and staff; and providing effective environmental and sustainability education.   One of the awardees was the Berkshire School. *****

The Pittsfield Conservation Commission has announced it and Lyon Aviation will sponsor a Fishing Derby for youths 14 and under next Saturday at Wild Acres.  Volunteer support is being provided by the Onota Fishing Club to assist with dressing fish, providing fishing tips and techniques, baiting, etc.  The derby runs from 8:00AM to 3:00PM.  Trophies will be awarded to those who catch a tagged fish.  Bait will be provided, and a limited amount of fishing poles will be available for use on a first come, first serve basis to those who do not own one.

 Michael Lyon, President of Lyon Aviation, said that he and his family participated regularly in fishing derbies and decided to “give back” to this event so that other children may continue to enjoy this time-honored tradition”.

Wild Acres is located off of South Mountain Road in Pittsfield.  For more information, contact Rebecca Tefft at 499-9370*****

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:  Hoosic River in Clarksburg, Cheshire and Adams, Westfield River in Becket, Chester, Chesterfield, Cummington, Huntington, Middlefield, Savoy and Windsor; Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Ashfield Pond, Upper Highland Lake, Plunkett Lake, Laurel Lake, Lake Buel, Windsor Lake, Otis Reservoir, Pontoosuc Lake, Goose Pond and Windsor Pond .*****

More local open spaces are being protected

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In a March 13 press release, the Patrick-Murray Administration announced the awarding of two grants under a new Landscape Partnership Program.  The grant in our area is called the Long Mountain Conservation Project.  That program will allow the Department of Fish and Game to permanently protect a 906 acre parcel from Lyme Northern Timber Fund as a Wildlife Management Area (WMA).  The property was highly threatened by development but it will now remain a productive forest.  In addition, an abutting private landowner is donating a conservation easement on a 597 acre parcel to the Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC).  Collectively, approximately 1,500 acres will be protected, which has important significance for landscape conservation, wildlife habitat, public access and climate change protection.

Then in his April report to the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen, DFW Western District   Manager Andrew Madden reported that the Division recently completed projects in Berkshire, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties as follows:  Windsor – 190-acres connecting the Moran WMA and the Savoy WMA.  This property includes wetlands, forests, and shrubland with extensive road frontage.  Chesterfield – 369-acres along the East Branch of the Westfield River.  This property protects one of the larger remaining parcels along the river and connects two previously protected areas in the lower Pork Barrel area.  Access can be gained from Wilkin Rd.  He also reported a 26-acre acquisition in Chester, which contains wetlands and access abutting the Hiram Fox WMA.

Lastly, in a recent town meeting, Lenox residents voted to grant a conservation easement giving an additional layer of protection on some 948 acres of land on Lenox Mountain that comprises the Town watershed area surrounding its reservoirs.  The CR will be held jointly by the Lenox Conservation Committee and the BNRC.  The purpose of the CR is to preserve the scenic and natural resources of the land while allowing for any future expansion of the town waterworks.  That means the entire Yokun Ridge will now be protected from possible development.  Other lands on that mountain are owned by the BNRC, Mass Audubon and Lenox Kennedy Park.  With the exception of the BNRC owned lands, no hunting or fishing will be allowed on that ridge but that’s ok, it never has been allowed.    At least future generations are assured of having Yokun Ridge for its scenic and natural resources value. *****

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club (SSC) will be holding its annual Spring Fishing Derby next Saturday from dawn until 3:00 PM at the Stockbridge Bowl boat ramp.  There will be $100 prizes for the heaviest trout or salmon, pickerel, bass and bullhead.  Free lures for all kids 12 and under.  Pre-registration fee is $10 and post registration fee is $15.  Tickets are available at the Minkler Insurance Agency in Stockbridge (413)298-3741 or from any club member.

The Onota Fishing Club will be holding it’s annual trout derby next Sunday from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Onota Lake.  Sign up will be at the Controy Pavillion.  Cash prizes will be awarded for heaviest trout and salmon and trophies will be awarded for children’s prizes.  There will be food and raffles.  There will also be a $10 all-you-can eat fish fry after the derby.  The fish fry is free with paid entry.  $10 for adults, $5 for children. 

This year the Onota Fishing Club will also be holding a tag sale at its derby event.  Anyone interested in donating any old fishing/camping/hunting equipment (no guns or ammo) can contact Chris Porter at 413-496-0105.  All proceeds from this raffle and derby benefit Pittsfield Little League.  A separate table will be set up for those that would like to sell their own items, with a small donation made to the events. 

Also next Sunday the SSC will be holding a firearms safety course 8:30 AM in its main hall.  The 5 hour classroom course meets requirements for FID/LTC.  The fee is $75 and is due at the course.  To register, call 413-232-7700 or e-mail robmcdermott@verizon.net.  Provide your legal name, middle initial and date of birth.

 Also next Saturday, the Lee IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Assn) will be holding matches at, the LSA.  New shooter orientation is at 11:30 AM, sign-in and stage review at 11:45 and start time is noon. The cost is $15.  Cold Range rules apply, 50 rounds, 3 magazines, holster, eyes & ears protection, concealment vest.  For scheduling information, click onto http://www.berkshireidpa.us.

 The Lee Sportsmen’s Association is starting up a new youth shotgun team formed through the SCTP (scholastic clay target program) for youth development through the shooting sports. Currently it has 5 athletes and 4 coaches.  The LSA Buckshots are training in trap, skeet, and soon, sporting clays.  Their first competition is Trap on June 8 in Burlington, MA.   If you know an athlete that would like to join, check out their website at http://www leesportsmen.com.  *****

 The following waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:  Hoosic River in Clarksburg, Cheshire and Adams, Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington; Green River in Williamstown,  Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Williams River in West Stockbridge and Great Barrington, Housatonic River in Pittsfield (S/W), Lee and Stockbridge; Hop Brook in Lee and Tyringham, Hudson Brook in Clarksburg and North Adams, Buck and Clam Rivers in Sandisfield, Potash Brook in Blandford, Town Brook in Lanesborough, Westfield River in Russell, Greenwater Pond, Littleville Lake, Norwich Lake, Laurel Lake, York Lake, Windsor Lake, Windsor Pond, Onota Lake, Richmond Pond and Stockbridge Bowl.  The Deerfield, Littleville Lake and Laurel Lake stockings also included tiger trout.

Weather was perfect for the youth turkey hunt

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SSC Youth Turkey hunt 2013 Last Saturday young hunters and their mentors took to the woods to bag a turkey.  It was a special day reserved just for youths 12-17 years of age who successfully completed the Youth Turkey Hunt Program.    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 SSC. 

 Of the 14 youths that participated in the SSC hunt, 6 of them were successful and bagged 5 jakes (sexually immature male wild turkeys under two years old) and one tom.  The largest turkey weighed 20 lbs and was bagged by Chris Massini.   In addition to taking a jake, Scott Stringham saw a moose.  Mike Buffoni, Chairman of the SSC program said that the number of jakes taken showed that the adult males were preoccupied with the hens.   Everyone had the same story, the toms were “henned up, meaning the hens were not going to their nests and the toms were hanging around them.    Perhaps it was due to the cold spring causing late breeding.

 The SSC youths and their mentors are as follows:  Kadin Shafiroff – Mark Borghi,  Silas Lockwood – Bob Spence, Ryan Havil – Jeff St John,  Ryan Smyth – Don Langille, Nick Errichetto – Mike Buffoni/John Mange,  Nick Puntin – Chris Puntin, Nick Bryant – Josh Grayworth, Brittany Collins – Chris Puntin/ Brian Korte, Michael Buffoni Jr. – Jay Raifstanger, Max Buffoni – Ed Noble, Chris Massini – Tom Reynolds,  Sam Harding – Brian Korte/Matt Sawyer,  Zack Tinker – Dave Gilmore, and Scott Stringham – Greg Middleton.

 Following the hunt, they were treated to a delicious meal prepared by club manager Peter Delgrande.   It consisted of bear meat loaf, venison stew and scalloped potatoes and ham.  I had some and boy was it good.  Following lunch, the youths were taught how to dress the birds and preserve the turkey tails, beards, feathers and spurs.

 The LSA had ten young hunters participating and they bagged 5 turkeys, two toms and three jakes.  Their largest bird was also 20 lbs taken by Connor Larock.  Other youth participants at that club were Paddy Sullivan, Matty Kelly, Sam Polastri, David Belanger Zachary Richardson, Mathew Leprovost, Ryan Reuf, Chip Consolati and Tanner Hill.  (Sorry, I did not get the names of the mentors).  According to project chairman, Matt Zamboni, they had lunch prepared by John Polastri and they also learned how to process their birds.

 Details were not available as to how the other club hunters fared. ******

Nest Saturday, the Berkshire Hatchery Foundation will be holding a youth fishing derby at the lower pond at the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery.  The derby, which is for kids under the age of 12, will be held from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM.   Parents are asked to call ahead (413-528-9761) to ensure that there is room for their young anglers.  At 9:30 AM at the Hatchery, Simon Winchester will be having a book signing of his best-selling book Skulls: An Exploration of Alan Dudley’s Curious Collection.  “Skulls” is a beautiful spellbinding exploration of more than 300 different animal skulls—amphibians, birds, fish, mammals, and reptiles.*****

 The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:  Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont, Florida; Westfield River in Chesterfield, Cummington, and Windsor; Chickley River in Charlemont, Hawley and Savoy; Cold River in Florida, Savoy and Charlemont,  Little River in Huntington and Worthington, West Branch Brook in Chesterfield and Worthington, Farmington River in Otis and Sandisfield, Hubbard River in Granville, Kinderhook Creek in Hancock, Mill Brook in Plainfield, Westfield Brook in Windsor, Bronson Brook in Worthington, Ashfield Pond, North Pond, Upper Highland Lake, Berry Pond, Plunkett Reservoir, Littleville Lake, Pontoosuc Lake, Laurel Lake, Goose Pond, Lake Garfield, Otis Reservoir, Big Pond and Onota Lake. *****

 The CR&G Club is once again having its monthly shoots on Saturdays starting at 10AM.   The entry fee is $10 for 1st shoot and $5 for the second.  Winners split ½ of the take.  Next Saturday they will have centerfile – 4×4 wood block shoots. *****

The LSA is having its Steel Challenge next Saturday.  Sign up is at 11:30 and matches begin at noon.  The cost is $15.

Four honored at annual Conte banquet

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conte dinner 2013 winners About 150 people attended the 29th annual Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) Silvio O. Conte Memorial Sportsmen’s Banquet which was held last Saturday evening at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club.  Michael Buffoni of Stockbridge received the 2012 Sportsman of the Year Award, Karen Kruszyna of Cheshire received the Lifetime Achievement Award; The Berkshire Natural Resources Council received the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award, and Mike Moss, President of the Mass Sportsmen’s Council, received the new John Zuber 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, or fighting for sportsmen’s rights or their willingness to teach future generations about the outdoors and outdoor sports. Their individual feats were highlighted in my March 24 column. 

In his acceptance speech, Mike Moss spoke about how he was truly humbled and honored to receive the John Zuber Award.  He spoke of how John fought his whole life to uphold the sportsmen’s way of life while protecting our wildlife and rich resources.  He noted that John took the lead in getting people out of doors, and left footprints for us all to follow.  He spoke of the great friendship that the two of them had developed over the years while serving on the Mass Sportsmen’s Council. 

 BCLS President Mark Jester stated that although she is not that old, Karen Kruszyna has accomplished so much in such a short time that it would be considered a lifetime achievement for others.  In accepting her award, Karen stated that she was grateful that her parents got here interested in the outdoors and grateful for the opportunity to help the local sportsmen and BCLS in getting kids out of doors fishing.  Referring to the BCLS Youth Outreach Fishing Day, she said, “These are kids who would never have such an opportunity.  That makes them better kids at the end of the day”.  She loves taking kids, any kids, outdoors.

Tad Ames, Executive Director of the Berkshire Natural Resources Council, accepted the award on its behalf.  He praised Narain Schroeder for his work in putting the land deals together, former Executive Director George Wislocki, for started the whole conservation movement in the Berkshires, and others.  Most of all he thanked the landowners for their “ethic and compassion” to preserve the open spaces, for without them, the protection of over 8,000 acres in Berkshire County would not have happened.   He cautioned us that as time goes by, more and more pressure will be brought to bear to take land away and use it for other purposes.  “Make sure”, he said, “that these endowments stay intact and remain available for conservation and enjoyment”.

 In introducing Michael Buffoni, Jester commented that when his name was received as a possible recipient for Sportsman of the Year, no one else was even considered.  That’s an indication as to how much respect his fellow sportsmen have for him and his many accomplishments in getting kids involved with outdoor sports.  After a standing ovation and receiving the Conte Award and citations from the State Senate and House of Representatives, Mike said that he was overwhelmed and honored to follow in the footsteps of those who got him involved in outdoor sports.  He specifically named Sean Smith, Tim Minkler, Gary Johnston, Martin Salvadore, John Mange, Skip Whalen, Chuck Jones, George Darey and the late Ernie Beckwith, all well known and highly respected local outdoor sportsmen.  He also thanked his parents, wife and family for their support.

 He commented that he was only 5 years old when he attended his first Skip Whalen Ice Fishing Derby and now he is its co-chair and is helping other kids get to enjoy the derby and other outdoors sports.  *****

 Weather and equipment permitting, the following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:  Clesson Brook in Ashfield and Buckland, Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida, Westfield River in Chester, Huntington, Middlefield, Russell and Worthington; Housatonic River in Dalton, Hinsdale, Lee and Stockbridge; Swift River in Ashfield and Goshen, Pelham Brook and Pelham Lake in Rowe and Charlemont, Konkapot River in Monterey and New Marlboro, South River in Ashfield, Sackett Brook in Dalton, Stones Brook in Goshen, West Brook in Great Barrington, Beartown Brook and Greenwater Brook in Lee; Yokun Brook in Lenox, Dunbar Brook in Monroe, Sackett Brook in Pittsfield, Larrywaug Brook in Stockbridge, Goose Pond Brook in Tyringham and Lee, Ashfield Pond, Greenwater Pond, North Pond, Upper Highland Lake, Littleville and Norwich Lakes in Huntington, Lake Garfield, York Pond and Otis Reservoir.

Spring turkey hunting season opens on April 29, with changes

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New this year, turkey hunters can check their turkey harvest online this spring season.  Here are some important reminders regarding turkey tagging and online game checking:

 • As in the past, you must tag your bird with your permit immediately after harvesting it. 

 • Within 48 hours of harvest and before the bird is processed for food or for taxidermy, you   must check your bird on the MassFishHunt web site.

 • After submitting your report, turkey hunters must write the MassFishHunt assigned confirmation number on the turkey tag that is on the bird. (The confirmation number is the official seal.)

 •           The tag with confirmation number must remain on the bird until it is processed for food or for taxidermy.

  Turkey hunters still have the option of bringing their bird within 48 hours of harvest to a traditional game check station.  

  New this year, the regulations on shot size for turkey hunting have changed.  The legal shot sizes for turkey hunting are now is # 4 – #7 shot.

 Also new this year, Youth Turkey Hunt Permits will not be mailed to youth hunters.  All youths participating in the hunt must obtain their permit through the MassFishHunt website.  Also, all youths who harvest a turkey on the Youth Turkey Hunt date of April 27, must check their turkey either online on MassFishHunt or at a traditional game check station within 48 hours of harvest.

 MassWildlife reminds turkey hunters that the bag limit is: (a) 2 bearded birds in spring season (1 per day) with no fall bird 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.  The printed version of the 2013 MA Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping omitted information regarding the bearded bird requirement in the spring turkey season. The bag limit information has been corrected in the online version of the 2013 Guide.  *****

  Congratulations to the Southern Berkshires Regional School District in Sheffield for incorporating the National Archery-in-the-School (NAIC) Program into its curriculum at its grammar/middle school.  Thanks go to the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS), Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation, Pittsfield Cooperative Bank and the Berkshire Taconic Foundation for providing the funding, and to MassWildlife for training the instructors.  Recently, I joined Mark Jester, President of the BCLS,  Astrid Huseby Project Leader from DFW, Janet Latuda and Kimberly Rock of the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation in attending the rolling out of the program. 

  Some 190 kids in Grades 4, 5 and 6 are enrolled in the program.  Assistant Elementary Principal Tom Nadolny, himself an outdoor sportsman, was instrumental in getting the program into the school system.   The instructors, Joshua King and Kelly Milan (both physical education teachers), received instructor training from four DFW personnel including Huseby.  Two high school teachers, Jessica Tomich and Susan Tomich also received instructor training and will be teaching it in the high school next year.

  Teachers applied for the grants and received funding from The Taconic Foundation’s Janet and Eagle Funds, and the BCLS received funding from the Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation, which in turn received funding for this project from the Pittsfield Cooperative Bank.

  The shooting takes place in the school gymnasium under the watchful eye of instructors King and Myland.  There is no danger of harming the floor, as there are no sharp points on the arrows.  The program, which appears evenly divided among girls and boys, is well received by the students.  They compete on their own level, not against the person next to them.  According to Nadolny, they are on their best behavior because they want to be in this program.   Feedback from parents has also been very positive.     

 “It’s great to see these kids excited about the program”, said Jester.   Nationwide, 48 states have incorporated the NAIC program and by 2017 there will have been 9 ½ million kids who went through this program in 15 years.  “I can’t wait to try archery myself”, said Nadolny, as we watched the kids hit bulls eye after bulls eye. *****

 Weather and equipment permitting, the following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:  Hoosic River in Cheshire and Adams, Westfield River in Becket, Chester, Cummington, Huntington, Middlefield, Savoy, and Windsor; Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Farmington River in Otis and Sandisfield, Goose Pond, Onota Lake, Richmond Pond, Stockbridge Bowl Windsor Pond , Windsor Lake, Yokum Brook and Walker Brook in Becket, Dry Brook and South Brook in Cheshire, Factory Brook in Middlefield, Housatonic River (SW) in Pittsfield, and Depot Brook in Washington.  Broodstock salmon were also stocked into:  Goose Pond, Onota Lake, Stockbridge Bowl, and Windsor Pond.

 

Stockings of salmon fry into the Connecticut River Watershed are coming to an end

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If you have never experienced stocking Atlantic salmon fry into our local rivers and streams, you have one last chance.  The final salmon fry stockings will take place in our area as follows: West Branch Westfield River, in Becket on April 10; East Branch Westfield River, in Chesterfield on April 11; East Branch Westfield River, in Windsor on April 12; East Branch Westfield River in Cummington on April 26 and West Branch Westfield River in Chester on April 29.  No date has been set for the final school stockings.

If you wish to participate in the fry stocking click onto the MassWild website at http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/fisheries/anadromous/salmon_fry_stocking.htm.  There you will be able to find out times, contacts, meeting places, etc.

At a meeting of the Connecticut River Atlantic Salmon Commission last July, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) announced that it will no longer culture salmon for restoration efforts in the Connecticut River Basin. The agency has supported salmon restoration for 45 years, but current low return rates and the science supporting salmon restoration have caused the USFWS to focus its efforts on other anadromous fish in the basin. The salmon program has resulted in many significant ecological benefits, for the Connecticut River watershed and other anadromous fish species.

The USFWS will continue to work with state agencies represented on the Commission and other conservation interests to restore and sustain other fisheries in the river basin such as American shad, American eel, river herring, and shortnose sturgeon.

As a result of the Service’s decision, White River National Fish Hatchery, which has been closed since August 2011 due to flooding damage from Tropical Storm Irene, and Dwight D. Eisenhower National Fish Hatchery, both in Vermont, will no longer rear salmon. The Service is also evaluating the future role of the Richard Cronin National Salmon Station in Massachusetts. The agency will continue to support education and outreach programs that build awareness about Atlantic salmon.

The effort to restore the salmon fishery was spearheaded by the late Congressman Silvio O. Conte, who was referred to as the father of the return of the Atlantic Salmon to the Connecticut River.  For about 25 years, my wife Jan and I and several members of the Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited have participated in these stockings.  We are saddened to see the program end, but understand the reason for being discontinued.   Several local schools had salmon egg rearing programs and they will end after this spring’s salmon stocking, too.

MassWildlife will still be monitoring the Connecticut River salmon returns for the next 5 years. That’s how long it takes for them to grow up in our rivers, migrate out to the sea and then return up our rivers to their spawning grounds. 

Incidentally, did you know that Mass DFW stocks about 10,000 fingerling landlocked salmon in the Quabbin Reservoir every spring?   These salmon are raised in the Roger Reed Hatchery in Palmer, MA. *****

The recent drowning in the Glendale stretch of the Housatonic River is a sad reminder that Massachusetts boating regulations require that all persons aboard canoes and kayaks between September 15 and May 15 wear a Coast Guard-approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times.  In addition, children under 12 are required to wear PFDs in boats of all types throughout the year. *****

Over the winter you may recall that I listed some ice fishing derbies that benefited football programs, scholarship funds, etc.  Well recently I received the following: First, the Stockbridge Sportsman’s Club sponsored an “Aim for a Cure” Archery Benefit Shoot for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation on March 16 and 17.  Archers came from all over for the weekend long event.  Saturday’s shooting was followed by dinner, live band, dancing, and a silent auction.  On Sunday morning there was a pancake breakfast, 3 more archery lines, and ended with a Chinese raffle.  This event raised over $6,000!    The club wishes to thank the many people and businesses who donated raffle prizes and their time to make this event successful.

Secondly, do you know Bill Drumm of Hinsdale?   He worked in local Archery/Gun shops and more than 20 years ago harvested a buck with his bow that qualified for Pope & Young recognition and is believed to be one of the first officially measured bucks in the Berkshires.  Well, he suffered a stroke this past November which led to complications including blindness in one eye and dialysis every other day at home.  He has been unemployed as a result of the stroke and has been denied disability.

His close friend and sports shop owner, Tom Philips, reports that a fund raiser will be held for Bill next Sunday from noon to 8 pm at the ITAM Lodge in Pittsfield.  There will be 6 bands, a 4-wheeler raffle, 50/50 raffle, Chinese raffle, great food and more. All proceeds raised will go directly to Bill to help defray his mounting medical expenses.  For more info contact Michelle Rachielle 413-281-2499, Lisa Duda 413-441-6077 or Tom Phillips 413-655-2505.

It is really nice that our local sportsmen, businesses and concerned citizens come together to help out at such times. *****

The following area waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:  Hoosic River 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; Williams River in West Stockbridge, and Great Barrington; Konkapot River in New Marlboro, Monterey and Sheffield; Farmington River in Otis and Sandisfield; Mansfield Lake in Great Barrington, Plunkett Reservoir in Hinsdale, Lake Garfield in Monterey, Windsor Lake in North Adams, and Onota Lake in Pittsfield.  Tight Lines!