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WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 3
By Tom Campbell
Field Notes
Spring Turkey Permit
Reminder to all spring turkey hunters; the ap-
plication period ends February 1. This hunt is one of
the best hunts to introduce a new hunter or mentor
a young hunter. The 2018 spring turkey season runs
April 23 through May 31, with several hunt periods
Michigan
to choose from. You can purchase your application
online at E-license or anywhere hunting licenses BIG BULL
are sold. Left-over licenses will be sold over-the-
counter beginning March 19. Rick Murray of Macomb Co. harvested this monster 8x7 bull elk outside of Vanderbilt on Dec. 13. It scored 340 7/8 inches.
Free Fishing Weekend Left: Greg Hurlbutt of Niles har-
Winter Free Fishing Weekend is Saturday, vested this beautiful 12-point
Feb. 17, and Sunday, Feb. 18. On those two days, buck during muzzleloader
everyone – residents and non-residents alike – season. The cold weather got
can fish without a license, though all other fish- the buck up on his feet before
ing regulations still apply. In addition, during shooting hours expired. The
#MiFreeFishingWeekend, the DNR will waive the record book buck has a 20 inch
regular Recreation Passport entry fee that grants spread, scoring in mid-160s.
vehicle access to Michigan’s 103 state parks and
recreation areas. Trophy
Big Bull Elk Taken By Rick Murray Bucks!
This year marks 100 years since elk were reintro- Right: Jim Moyer Jr. took this
duced to Michigan, and the DNR will celebrate the incredible 16-point buck with
anniversary and a century of successful elk manage- his muzzleloader at 35 yards on
ment throughout 2018. Once common in Michigan, Nov. 15 hunting Ingham County.
elk had disappeared from the state in the 1800s due to The record book big buck field
unregulated take and lack of habitat. In 1918, seven dressed at 225 and will score
elk were brought from the western United States to close to 200 inches non-typical.
Wolverine in Cheboygan County. Rick Murray of
Macomb County will also be celebrating after his suc- for an elk license as long as he can remember. and dressed over 625 pounds. What a trophy! Proof
cessful December elk hunt. Once drawn, he knew he wanted to do it, as he the healthy and abundant elk population of nearly
First, Rick was lucky enough to be drawn for an called it, ‘the old fashion way,’ and he hired a guide 1,200 animals in the state today is a result good man-
‘any-elk license.’ Hunters are selected for an elk hunt- that understood and they were putting in 50 miles a agement.
ing license using a random weighted drawing system day on foot! Rick said, “I was so sore after the first Rick’s elk is truly a trophy of a lifetime. Once is-
that began in 2003. In each license drawing, those day, I lost seven pounds, but it’s the way I wanted to sued an ‘any-elk license’ a hunter becomes ineligible
who are not selected receive one additional chance for hunt.” On Dec. 13, Rick took this monster 8 x 7 bull to apply for, obtain, or purchase a future elk license
future drawings. Only one additional chance will be elk outside of Vanderbilt that scored over 340 inches for the remainder of his or her life.n
awarded in a given year. Rick said he’d been applying
BUCK
Gun Chat...
Michigan Deer Camp Traditions Honest wear
Lost in Manistee County Trapping Michigan’s weasel
John Chagnon page 72 Lee Arten page 39
Jake Dykstra page 81
Betty Sodders...page 54
FISHING OUTDOOR NEWS
Winter fisheries you must try
William Demmer honored
John Bergsma page 34
COVER STORY page 25
Monster Walleyes
Kenny Darwin page 8 Flawless Fish Mounts U.P. deer migration study
Brian Miller page 44 MDNR page 40
Ice Safety DNR welcomes 22 new COs
Mark Sak page 49 page 58
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• Whitetails' Critical Energy Balance • Crappie at Night • Our 'Red-Birds'
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Woods-N-Water News
Michigan’s Premier Outdoor Publication
Monster Walleyes
Michigan fishermen battle with a 10-pound plus monster
walleye through the ice. You don’t
love catching walleyes just flip it out of the tiny hole like
statewide and in smelt. You gotta give it time, fight
recent years the great it smart, allow it to grow tired and
keep your senses until you see an
ice fishing has come opportunity to pull its huge head
A
to a fever pitch... into the hole and attempt landing the
fish with a gator-like maw.
fter catching plenty Most fishermen fumble the ball
of eater fish many when they get a peek at a record
anglers are willing walleye kissin’ close. Adrenaline
to travel in order to kicks in big time and often sharp
land a trophy. Taking thinking anglers go numb, their
limit catches in local mind turns to mush and they often
lakes, ponds, rivers and reservoirs make the fatal mistake of forcing
soon takes a back seat to catching big walleyes at the hole. That’s
a wall-hanger over 30 inches long when lines snap like a thread,
and weighing at least 10 pounds. swivels bend, gaffs miss the fish
Big walleyes are impressive fish and hook the line and the trophy of
and fighting them on a short ice rod a lifetime is suddenly free. Some
with light line is exciting and the huge walleyes pause in the hole and
unmatched thrill of a monster ’eye provide spellbound anglers an op-
inches from your feet splashing and portunity to dive into the icy water
thrashing at the hole is an adrenaline attempting desperately to grab the
rush beyond belief. This was the prize. Only to come out of the icy
case in the following anecdote. water with empty hands and a more
I was 10 miles from shore jig- humiliated ego. The worst feeling in
ging a #1 gold/chartreuse Do Jigger the world settles into a gut churning
tipped with two crappie minnows adrenaline rush that leaves you fish-
near bottom. Suddenly a thick less and totally humiliated.
red band appeared on my Vexilar I know because I’ve farmed
electronics and I twitched the rod tip more record walleyes at the hole
and slowly stair-stepped the offering than I care to remember. Nothing is
upward when the band followed, got more depressing and the memory
larger and all of a sudden a huge fish haunts you for a lifetime, sticks like
gulped my spoon. The strike was glue and is a nasty reminder that
easy to detect and the solid thud was stabs you in the gut every time a big
followed by an immediate hook set fish nears the hole.
that bent my custom rod double. For The trick is to keep your cool,
an instant the monster was motion- ease the big fish into the hole and
less and it felt like I hooked a big put it on the ice. Years ago I was
log. Then it began violently shaking taught by Don Leuenberger from
its head as it sprinted for bottom. Saginaw how to spud a slanted plat-
Line stripped off my reel like I was form to the side of the hole where
into a big sturgeon and I had no you can beach fish with ease.
control. All I could do is desperately This fish paused midway to the
hang onto the bent double rod with ice and when it reached the surface
rod tip inches from the ice as line it went bonkers. At first it crashed
melted from the spool. For an in- into the ice and knocked itself dizzy
stant I thought I hooked a 40-pound and lay motionless across the hole.
carp but the line stripping sprint I anxiously tried to ease its head
came to a stop and once again my toward the hole only to have it turn
rod throbbed to the head shake of a upright, come back to life and sprint
big fish resembling a walleye. This for Detroit. Line sizzled from my
would be my fifth big fish for the reel’s drag but it eventually slowed,
morning but this one was different, stopped and ran under the hole again
it seemed hell bent on hugging bot- and again until its runs became pro-
tom as I slowly coaxed it toward the gressively shorter. Its energy seemed
tiny hole. drained after a long fight as I coaxed
Bringing a Master Angler the 33-inch sled to the hole and
walleye to the hole is an emotional eased its head into the tiny channel.
tug of war and when the huge body Immediately I slipped its head onto While Saginaw Bay and Saginaw River ser ve up excellent walleye catches,
sweeps past the hole less than arm’s the slanted ice and used my ice ladle the overall size has gone down from huge catches from years past. How-
length away I guarantee your heart behind his gill to pull him onto the ever, Ryan Har tland proudly displays a monster walleye caught on Saginaw
will skip a beat. There is something ice. Moments later I danced around Bay near Linwood using a Slender spoon tipped with a minnow and is proof
powerfully addictive about doing the hole like a drunken polar bear positive some big dogs still roam the Saginaw system. Author photos
8 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
holding up the 12-pound trophy
walleye.
I became a trophy walleye
hunter when I put my first 10-pound
fish on the ice near the 675 express-
way overpass on the Saginaw River.
Ever since I’ve chased big hawgs
throughout Michigan and other
states in search of trophy fish mea-
suring over 30 inches and tipping
the scales over 10 pounds.
There have been many changes
in Michigan’s trophy walleye fishery
in the last few years and finding big
dogs can be very time consuming
and expensive. So, when folks ask
me where they can catch a trophy
walleye my answer is simple, where
you find them. But the truth is you
can catch big walleyes if you learn
to cut some corners and make trips
to trophy hot spots. Here’s where
and when to go for unbelievable big
walleye catches.
First, forget fishing in Minnesota Author with prize trophy walleye that smacked his favorite #1 size green/silver Do Jigger spoon tipped
or Wisconsin. Although the trophy with two lively crappie minnows. If your quest is for a trophy fish he recommends you concentrate on
walleye fishery found in Green Bay Great Lakes’ bays and connecting waterways.
is simply impressive, most states
offer good fishing but big hawgs can fish in the waters of Michigan’s eye fishing. Average catches would had three on the ice when the trophy
be difficult to locate. Truth is your Lake Erie near Stony Point but tro- weigh around 8 pounds with plenty smashed my lure,” he says. “I’ve
home state of Michigan has more phy fish tend to concentrate east of of 10-pound plus walleyes available caught many walleyes through the
and bigger fish than many other West Sister Island. Michigan anglers for those willing to spend time on ice but one glimpse of this trophy
well-known walleye states. We are should also pay attention to the ice frozen water. However, destroyed inches below my feet was a thrill
fortunate to have the Great Lakes near Magee Marsh State Reserva- perch populations and over-harvest- I’ll never forget.” Ryan’s fish is a
and connecting waterways that are tion, which is the closest walleye ing of mature walleyes has dam- classic example that there still are
huge bodies of water rich with bait- hotspot to Michigan. The access aged the fishery. The DNR insists some trophy walleyes in Saginaw
fish that support colossal walleye site is found off Highway 2, but the the fishery shows signs of recovery Bay. This past fall when hunt-
populations on an impressive level. fantastic fishing is only available but it is my opinion the world class ing Oldsquaw at the mouth of the
There is one location relatively close if solid ice forms. Once it is solid, walleye fishery will never return un- Saginaw River the walleye fishing
to your home that serves up monster schools of large walleyes congregate less the DNR takes steps to reduce was off the hook crazy. Some boats
walleyes on a monumental scale. from 15-30 foot depths. Some savvy commercial nets in Saginaw Bay. were jigging in the Saginaw River
I’m talking about Lake Erie. anglers like to fish near the GPS Last summer I attended the AuGres downstream from Bay City, others
Just about everyone knows if buoys off the nuke plant and excel- tournament and out of over 100 were working jigs off the man-made
you want big walleyes go to Lake lent catches come from Toussaint boats the largest walleye entered island and more were trolling sticks
Erie. Come winter, the prespawn Reef, Round Reef, Crib Reef and was only 6 pounds 9 ounces. It is in the Bay and everyone was catch-
huge hens gather in enormous many more. sad to see Michigan’s outstanding ing limits. I saw several boxes full
schools that many call the world’s If ice fishing is not available this salmon fishery and the Saginaw Bay with walleyes that averaged between
best fishery for big fish and the ice year on Erie your next best bet is walleye fishery struggle at the same 3-5 pounds. So, when the Bay and
fishing is second to none. Catching to go trolling with stick baits. The time. River freezes in 2018 I expect good
a wall-hanger on Erie can be child’s warm weather last winter provided However, Saginaw Bay does fishing, limit catches and hopefully
play if you follow a few rules. Begin limit catches of monster fish on a produce some quality large fish that some trophy 10-pound plus walleyes
by centering your attention on the monumental scale all winter. The migrate from outer Lake Huron. will be mixed in.
massive pre-spawn schools congre- trick is to slow troll about 1.5 miles One look at the huge walleye caught I’ve caught 10 pounders in
gating from the islands to Toledo. an hour with long sticks like the by Ryan Hartland from Ionia and 20 foot depths off the State Park,
The migration begins in late De- popular deep diving Husky Jerk. your mouth will simply drop open. Boutell Rd., Linwood and Nayan-
cember and builds to unbelievable One out of three fish in Erie is over It was a trophy in every sense of quing Point. I’m the only walleye
fishing come late winter. 8 pounds and it is not uncommon the word with huge gut, impres- angler in Michigan to win the Shiver
I’ve seen fantastic fishing off to land your limit of 10-pound plus sive length and a head that looks contest one year and place in the
Green Island, Rattlesnake and Bass walleyes. like one of those big gators they top five with huge fish three out
islands during winter. The islands Michigan anglers can also find catch in Florida. Ryan was jigging of five years in a row. My largest
have a reputation of creating ice first excellent fishing in the Bays de Noc. a glow Slender spoon at dawn near contest walleye was 12 pounds 8
but deep water currents and shifting Escanaba and Gladstone have a long Linwood in about 20 foot of water ounces. Perhaps my best Saginaw
ice can make these locations some- history of producing limit catches when the big fish gulped his presen- Bay trophy walleye hotspot is near
what unsafe and anglers are better of walleyes with some trophy 10 tation. the Black Hole in 25 foot of wa-
off to concentrate on the open water pounders mixed in. This fishery is “It almost jerked the rod from ter off East Coggins Road. This is
ice found in the bay off Port Clin- found offshore and a snow machine my hand,” he reported. “When I set where my son Zach landed an 11
ton. Usually safe ice forms first near is needed to reach the walleye the hook it was solid and I almost pounder and my fishin’ pal Greg
the DNR boat launch at Catawba grounds. broke my rod.” Ryan was fishing Leuenberger iced a 15-pound giant.
Island in the 10-15 foot depths. The My stomping ground for big with a brightly colored Slender You have probably seen pictures in
good fishing arrives when safe ice walleyes is Saginaw Bay and the spoon tipped with a couple crappie Woods-N-Water News of Greg hold-
reaches the 20-30 foot depths. Saginaw River. At one time this minnows. “That morning the wall-
Sure, you can catch plenty of region provided epic trophy wall- eyes were snapping and I already Monster walleyes page 10
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 9
Savvy anglers
use a 3-hole
A
With a Navionics app running
in my laptop, for instance, we as
ll five Great Lakes a large group are able to pre-plan
(six, if you decided our next day’s fishing right down
to sneak Lake St. to discovering the longitudes and
Clare into the mix) latitudes of underwater humps, cuts,
are vast, and if fish points and breaklines we want to
are far off shore it fish, and can then program the spots
could be miles of travel by quad or into our GPS units. And with the aid
snowmobile—traversing cracks and of a digital projector, everyone in
heaves all the way—to get to where the group can see and get a firsthand
you think the fish will be. understanding of the types of struc-
Once to a spot where shoreline ture they will be fishing over.
is out of sight, you’ll soon compre- And when Navionics maps are
hend this is as close to being on the downloaded into your smartphone,
surface of the moon as you’ll ever the device not only turns into
experience. personal mapping for when on the
However, you want to go be- ice, but is a back-up GPS in case
cause you’ve heard rumor the bite’s the unforeseen becomes reality and
hot and big fish have been pulled you need assistance getting back to
through the ice. You crave the ac- where you started. (Tip: Remember
tion. to always let others at home know
But where do you start your where you are fishing and what time
search for fish? you’ll be home. And do not deviate
The biggest problem with ice from those plans.)
fishing any huge expanse of water,
no matter your target species, is Beeline
narrowing down the minute places One of the best things about
where the fish could be. After all, using electronic mapping is the
your time on the ice is limited and direct path you’re able to make to
you want to be drilling holes over an your pre-planned spot, and then be
area with the highest density of fish. able to immediately set up directly
The best way to figure out where over structure. It’s a real time saver
to drop a line when ice fishing big on the ice, for sure, as you can be Narrowing down large expanses of water and fishing them like they
lakes is to change your mindset and in place before the sun rises. This are small will help you catch walleyes like this one the author is
think of them as small lakes, nar- allows the environment around you holding. David A. Rose photo
rowing down the many possibilities to settle down and fish to relax to
to just a few. their natural state for prime fishing change lures while hole hopping. water. We now have more
And it’s easier than ever nowa- time. The GPS I use nowadays for Once I find the hole(s) I first accurate mapping and can get
days with modern-day electronics. driving to and from fishing spots is want to drop a lure through, I’ll set to spots likely to hold fish faster
a Lowrance Hook-5 Ice Machine—a up my Clam portable shanty, turn than ever. And as an added
Have a Plan portable sonar/GPS all-in-one unit. on my portable heater and lower the safety factor—being able to
One thing that has not changed The 5-inch color screen is easy to camera of my MarCum underwater get back to shore right where
for me over the years is pre-plan- see in both bright and dim light camera. you left, no matter how severe
ning where, exactly, I plan on fish- conditions, and the unit has a card My Marcum VS825SD has the weather, today’s electronics
ing the night before venturing out on reader for my Navionics SD cards. taught me much while on the water can save the day.
the ice. of the Great Lakes. Via its 8-inch
As an example, one of the first In Place flat-panel color screen, I’ve watched Mark Martin is a tournament
things we instructors do during the The first thing I do when I get to how fish react to the lure I’m using walleye fisherman and an
Ice-Fishing Vacation/School held where I want to fish is to start up my and can figure out whether I need instructor with the Ice-Fishing
on Lake Huron’s Saginaw Bay (this StrikeMaster power auger and drill to change styles or colors to get the Vacation/School
year February 18 through 21, 2018), all the holes I’ll need in the area. fish to strike. This is another time (icefishingvacationschool.com)
is to gather all who are fishing and Once all are made I then walk hole saver when fishing waters where which class was held on the
strategize our next day. to hole and check for depth, struc- much of the day can be eaten up frozen waters of Michigan’s
Perusing large paper maps is still ture and fish with the Hook-5. traveling to and from a spot. Houghton Lake, as well will
a way to scan the lay of the under- This unit is totally portable and be coming to Burt Lake and
water land and pin-point structure even has space for two Plano tackle Get There, Lake Huron’s Saginaw Bay
likely to hold fish. But many of the totes in which I stash a few Rapala See, and Get Back the winter of 2018. For more
hard copy maps available are not Jigging Raps and Northland spoons, Yes, modern electronics have information, check out Mark’s
very detailed. just in case I see fish and need to changed the way we fish big web site at markmartins.netn
12 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
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WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 13
Buck of a Lifetime Guest Column By Devin Benner
F
or roughly 15 years, my brother-in-
law, Scott Johnston of Washington,
Michigan has had a pretty decent
hunting career, bagging his share of
small bucks and does. None of them
came easy. Scott hunted hundreds of
hours each season and has dealt with days and
even weeks of seeing absolutely nothing. And
just like every whitetail hunter, Scott has always
dreamed of harvesting that big monster whitetail
of a lifetime.
In the beginning, Scott and I started out
still hunting on public land. This pretty much
involved showing up at state game areas and
walking or sitting in random spots hoping a deer
would walk by. We had no idea what we were
doing and never even saw a deer. But a few years
later we started hunting out of treestands, and
our success improved. We actually saw deer and
Scott shot his first buck that year.
Eventually we got our own private hunting
land, a 62-acre parcel in Parma and started using
grunt calls, hunting over scrapes, and creating
deer habitat around the property. But about that
time Scott got some bad news that he had been
diagnosed with an adult onset form of Muscular
Dystrophy (MD), which is a degenerative muscle
disorder. By 2013 climbing up a ladder to a tree-
stand had become very difficult and extremely
dangerous for Scott, so he eventually had to hunt
from a ground blind.
If there’s one thing all of us at deer camp
learned from Scott, it’s that nothing can stop you
from doing what you really love. Never once
did we hear Scott complain about his new one-
dimensional view from the ground while we all
continued to enjoy birds’ eye views from 20 feet
up. Instead, Scott has always been very grateful Scott Johnston’s buck had huge tines and a massive 22 inch spread!
for the help he gets setting up his tent or occa-
sional 4-wheeler ride to his blind. In fact, Scott is we consider a trophy animal. Around 5 p.m., as I too low. Even with the advantage of my body
just very thankful for the fact that he gets to hunt sat in my treestand on the opposite corner of the being full of adrenalin, aiming that beautiful
at all. 62 acres reflecting on our season, I was happy Ruger .44 Magnum bolt action rifle without sup-
Despite the pain he endures and the struggle with the amount of deer seen running throughout port would be impossible. My only option was
to get out in the woods, he has showed up year- the property. Our recent QDM efforts were show- to cross my legs. As I was lifting one leg over
after-year and participates in every hunt, morning ing success! I saw several does and was being the other, he must have heard the fabric rubbing,
and afternoon. thoroughly entertained by a small fork, and that’s as that huge rack and those big black eyes were
Each year becomes a little more difficult for when it happened! staring right at my tent. The tense few seconds
Scott to hunt, so the pressure to bag the big one Not a BOOM like a shotgun, but a BANG! A passed like minutes until he felt comfortable
increases every season. This year’s new challenge bang like a .44 magnum coming from the loca- enough to go about his business. With several
for Scott was how to hold the gun steady if a deer tion of Scott’s blind! I grinned from ear-to-ear years of experience hunting out of a tent, we
came into range. Unlike those of us un-afflicted remembering what we said about only shooting only open the front windows and hunt from the
with MD, Scott has had difficulty pointing the ri- a big buck. I wanted to jump out of my treestand shadows of the back of the tent. All he saw was
fle and holding it steady without falling forward. and go see what he had shot. darkness inside.
Scott has always been a great shot. He’s even Here’s how Scott describes the hunt: “I hunt ““Buck Fever” is hard to describe, but once
been referred to around camp as “The Sniper.” looking out of the tent almost due north, facing you feel it, you know what’s happening. Take a
But in light of this new challenge, he decided to the swampy sanctuary that Devin has been me- deep breath; wait for the crosshairs to land on the
utilize the back of a sturdy chair placed in front ticulously crafting for so many years. The idea is heart. I was fortunate that he gave me a long mo-
of him as a gun rest if needed. Well, that was the to give home to a typical Jackson County monster ment with a broadside view because I had to take
plan at least. that would make any of the locals proud. three of those deep breaths before I was confident
November 15, 2017 was upon us and we were During the past hunts in Parma, I have spotted of my shot. He collapsed. I wanted to leap for
excited as ever! There had been a big buck spot- what most would consider pretty big bucks. But, joy.”
ted in the swamp at the end of the pond earlier in this buck was different. I was captivated by the We still can’t believe it happened. The big
the season that we referred to as the “Pond Buck” pure majestic aura he emitted stepping through old 9-point ‘Pond Buck’ stepped out just when
and he was on our mind that morning. It was a the high grass. As he made his way out of the Scott needed him to. And from it, a valuable
long, quiet opener. We saw nothing all day, and sanctuary he suddenly stopped, swiveling his lesson was underscored. If you’re patient and
the next morning was pretty much the same. head from one direction to the next as if to antici- have a little luck, all the years of hard work, per-
Time was running out. We both had to head pate another challenge to his dominance. severance, and determination of a skilled marks-
home that evening to be ready for our real-life “As I began to prepare myself for the shot of man will eventually lead to the Buck of
responsibilities. We agreed only to shoot what a lifetime, I realized the makeshift gun rest was a Lifetime!n
14 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
Che
Met ck Out
a
Lod Lake
Nakina FAC ge On
EBO
OK!
Ontario Canada
LAKE LODGE AND
OUTPOST CAMPS
EXCELLENT
WALLEYE, PIKE &
PERCH FISHING!
W
hen winter microclimate and best travel condi- energy gained from eating woody zero and minus 34 degrees Fahr-
begins, deer tions during the coldest weather. browse. In fact, northern white enheit, as long as they had access
have not During their initial adjustment to cedar (3 to 6 pounds per deer per to corn and soybeans. Even small
yet adjusted winter, deer undergo certain physi- day) is the only browse that will amounts of high-energy food, when
for severe ological changes, including sustain deer through 100 combined with a mixed browse diet,
weather, so reduced thyroid function days of yarding. Hemlock, allow a deer’s metabolic furnace to
they respond to climatic stress by and decreased metabolism maple, ash, birch, aspen, compensate for cold-stress in poor
eating more becoming more ac- associated with a decrease and various shrubs -- of shelter.
tive and seeking protective cover in movement activity. comparatively low nutri- During early winter, deer tend
-- sometimes requiring lengthy By midwinter, they gear tion value -- suffice only to move and feed most heavily at
migration to favorable winter habitat down to an almost semi- when available in great sunrise, midday, sunset and twice
(i.e., deeryards). Low temperatures hibernating state, decrease variety and abundance, or nightly. This (5-peaked) pattern
and cold winds cause higher rates their food intake by about when consumed with more exhibited by healthy deer holds
of body heat-loss, while mounting 30 percent and their nourishing foods. throughout winter, and probably
snows increase energy expenditures
and make deer more vulnerable to
activity by at least
50 percent. These
By John Ozoga The availability of
high-energy agricul-
in all other seasons. By midwinter,
however, malnourished deer become
predation. adaptive tactics allow them to waste tural crops or supplemental feed , most active in the warmest part of
My studies in the Petrel Grade little energy when food is scarce however, is another matter. the day and greatly decrease night-
deeryard, located in Alger County, and environmental stresses are high, The amount of digestible energy time travel. This, undoubtedly is an
revealed wide differences in micro- and to coexist in a crowded, hostile in a deer’s winter diet can greatly energy-conserving adjustment to
climate within the yard. No single environment. To accomplish this, determine shelter requirements. For reduce exposure and body heat-loss,
niche provided maximum protec- however, deer must occupy safe, example, researcher Aaron Moen thus enhancing survival.
tion while still providing adequate comfortable habitat. found deer in western Minnesota On northern range, small-bodied
browse. Of the habitat types I sam- Despite an ultraconservative readily bedded in open fields even deer are at a serious disadvantage.
pled, dense, mature northern white lifestyle, the whitetail’s basic energy when exposed to brisk winds and Moen found, for example, that more
cedar offered the most comfortable requirements in winter exceed nighttime temperatures between body heat is lost during cold, windy
January 26 - 28
TH TH
THE LANSING CENTER
333 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48933
I
f you have lots of money but he took a book with him and his that he had seen a buck, apparently pedicles showed that there had been
and choose to give it to compound bow had no sights of any wounded and asked if he should try antlers there recently, this deer was
selected and specific others, kind. He couldn’t shoot well but it to track it down. There was snow on bald. Apparently, the head shot had
that’s usually called philan- didn’t matter – he wasn’t going to the ground and a check confirmed dislodged the antlers. After a short
thropy. If you are blessed shoot anything. that the deer was leav- debate, we decided to put an antler-
with time on your hands It was quite natural, ing a fair blood trail. John less tag on him. After the deer was
and you give it to those who then, for his outdoors- took the track and I circled dressed and ready to drag, I kicked
might need it, that’s volun- bound son to turn to me for ahead. After a few hundred around in the snow perhaps six feet
teering. If you have some special an introduction to the finer yards, the deer entered the in front of the deer and discovered a
knowledge or a store of experiences things in life. When I lived property of a neighbor and small, forked antler. Two feet to the
that might be valuable to others and in Florida, he came down I had to go get permission side, there was the other and John
you share it that is called teaching or to catch his first bonefish, to pursue it, which was was elated.
mentoring. If the person with whom snook and tarpon. When quickly granted. When the While there was a great deal of
you share is a son or daughter, that we returned to trail went into pleasure in sharing my lifetime of
is called ‘really special.’
My brother was blessed with one
Michigan, I called
in his first gobbler
By George Rowe some thick stuff,
I went around the
outdoor experience with the younger
man, this was not a one-way street.
son and three daughters. I had just and took him to thicket to see if the A man in his sixties needs a com-
two daughters and no son. While the woods where he took his first deer would break out to the side. panion, if just for safety concerns
my eldest loved to fish and showed buck. He quickly caught his first When the buck jumped up and it is wonderful to have a young,
an early interest in hunting, she was salmon, lake trout and stream trout from his bed in front of John, he strong guy beside you when it
grounded by physical handicaps and got hooked good on walleye snapped off a shot at the running comes time to get that big buck
and eventually succumbed to them. and perch. After he finished college target, sending it head-over-heels. from the woods to the SUV parked
While my brother was the best and took a job in the U.P., we spent When I reached him, he was down a half-mile away. While it may seem
father imaginable and supported his many a day together, fishing or on his hands and knees, holding self-serving, this is one of the best
children in every way conceivable, hunting. the deer’s head and lamenting the reasons to take on a younger person
he had little interest in the outdoors. His first buck was really a dif- fact that the deer had no antlers. “I with which to share the outdoors.
He went deer hunting with his ferent hunt. About mid-morning, saw them clearly,” he said, when You not only get the satisfaction that
young son, in the archery season, he came up to my stand and said he first spotted this deer. While the comes with teaching, you get some
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18 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
security in simply being out there Fortunately, a new companion
with a capable companion. surfaced last winter. Deciding to
That companion moved to give up ice fishing as too physically
Alaska a few years ago and while demanding for a man of 85 winters,
we have planned, several times, for an ad was put in the paper for all the
me to join him in hunting or fishing related gear. The man who called to
up there, there were always some look to the stuff (he bought some)
things in the way – the hunting des- had a beagle in his truck and, when
tination for moose was too remote we talked for a bit, we made a date
for a man with health problems and to go rabbit hunting. I know some
physical limitations or the chronic nifty rabbit covers and he had two
stomach problems were acting, beagles and we both loved hound
up, causing the cancellation of the music and rabbit stew. We hunted
halibut trip. together many times last winter
This is what John had to say, in and that kept me moving, a very
a recent email, about our relation- important factor in getting old and
ship. remaining active outdoors. The
“I am so very happy that I have phrase “use it or lose it” certainly
a father that wanted to spend time applies
with me hunting and fishing when There are two observations of
I was young, even though it wasn’t note: one is to take every oppor-
his passion. Once it became my tunity to pass along your outdoor
passion, I am so thankful that you experience and knowledge and
were there to help teach me and enthusiasm to younger people. You
mentor me in all those hunting and will find this a really heart-warming
fishing activities. Now I am able to process. Second, when you get old,
share them with my son and “pay it you need a companion. It is dan- The author’s nephew, John Rowe, with his latest Alaskan moose,
forward” as I go. I look forward to gerous for a person in their 70s or taken in September, at a range of over 300 yards.
handing my knowledge (and guns) 80s to venture off on the water or
down to Mason so he can do the in the woods without a companion. outdoorsman, you can probably from you and thus gain something
same someday. Thank you so, so It is akin to going off in a canoe help him with something from your from the experience and, if possible,
much for all the great times! I will or a kayak without a PFD. Even background. If possible, choose a choose one that is younger and
always cherish those memories.” if your companion is a seasoned companion who can and will learn stronger.n
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WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 19
ichigan hosts some the swimming minnow. The lessons
of the best night ice learned years ago regarding crappie
fishing in the coun- ice fishing still are golden today.
try and sportsmen We found that by using two
are discovering the lanterns and lighting up the shanty
fantastic action on our catch soared. The extra light
the night shift. Some panfish, inland helped to see the little bobber slowly
lake walleyes, smelt and more have go underwater on a bite. More
become active when the sun sets and importantly the added light seemed
the night is dark as black ink. Smelt to attract fish. We soon switched to
for instance are difficult to hook on double mantle lanterns that provided
Gull, Green or Higgins Lake when more light. Little did we know the
the day is sunny but come sundown extra light would draw microorgan-
their feeding activity increases and isms under our shanty which in turn
by midnight they go on a feeding brought in schools of minnows and
spree. Big slab crappie are night the crappie soon followed. We also
feeders too, and those who set up learned we would catch more fish
shanties, drill holes and get the if we placed the lantern next to the
space heater cookin’ can be in for hole on the ice rather than hanging
some midnight madness when crap- the light overhead. We would also
pie are snappin’ lures. The following put aluminum foil on the side facing
anecdote best describes the fishing the angler to reduce the bright light
fun. glowing in our eyes.
The clock struck midnight when Back then there was a huge
I noticed my Gotcha spring bobber bait shop just west of Sanford with
wiggling on my rod tip and slowly large tanks filled with minnows. We
bending down to signal a strike from would keep crappie minnows alive
a winter crappie. I lifted the rod by constantly pouring lake water
from the holder, pointed the tip at into the minnow bucket and keep-
the black hole in the ice and allowed ing ice from forming on the top. We
the fish to fully take the hook before quickly discovered that if you want
I set the hook. There is no rush to increase your catch you need to
hooking crappie, winter fish slowly use lively minnows. Minnows that
take the hook and you have plenty are lethargic draw fewer strikes
of time to set the hook. My custom Winter crappie are firm fleshed and excellent eating. If you want and dead minnows were a waste of
ultra-lite rod bent double to the fight limit catches try night shift fishing which requires gear like shanty, good fishing time. Some bait shops
of the big slab and soon the white lantern, ice auger and fishing equipment. keep minnows in relatively warm
crappie filled the hole. I grabbed water and the instant you drop them
him by his large mouth and paper is available. So, we moved to the together a fish house made for two through the hole they quiver and
thin lips that held the tiny glow center of the lake and our catch and we centered it at lightning speed die from water temperature shock.
jig tipped with a waxie. Soon my increased. over a couple hot holes that pro- The trick is to slowly add lake water
bucket was full of slabs and it was Perhaps the most important duced crappie during the day. I bor- and mix until the minnows are ac-
time for me to take down the shanty lesson I learned about ice fishing rowed my father’s red single mantle customed to the icy water. Savvy
and drive home. One glance for crappie came from a Coleman lantern and we hit the ice ice anglers keep minnows lively for
at my watch confirmed it group of anglers on Sanford with high hopes of landing fish. one simple reason; to increase their
was after midnight and I Lake. We were fishing at We were not disappointed and soon catch.
thought how amazing it a place called Coach Cove discovered the hot bite would come We also learned that if you use a
is crappie are night feed- where anglers would park around 10 and sometimes midnight. small single hook that is lightweight
ers. I also wondered how along the lake and setup Our strategy was simple; we minnows live longer. The trick to
many Michigan fishermen over deep water crappie would jump on the ice after swim fishing success hinged on how you
are missing the hot crappie lairs. One Saturday we meets or high school basketball hooked the bait. Those who stabbed
bite because they only fish were coming off the ice and fish until 1 a.m. I’d come home minnows through the spine killed
during the day. My point is at sunset when a group of whipped and dead tired from the them and they produced few strikes.
anglers carrying ice fishing adventures into the But if you barely hook the minnow
By Kenny Darwin
the best crappie
fishing takes place Coleman lanterns wee hours after midnight. But our above the spine near the dorsal fin
when the sun has asked us how we catches soared and after learning the it will stay alive longer and catch
gone down and the night is silent. did. They looked at the few fish we many benefits of night fishing our more fish. The trick is to use a super
I cut my teeth fishing crappie had in our pail and remarked that we day outings were eliminated. We sharp hook and thread it just under
through the ice on Sanford and could catch many more crappie if became crappie night owls. the skin. Oh sure, some crappie
Wixom Lakes near Edenville. My we fished at night. So we came back The best rig was simple; a long would slam the lively bait and pull it
high school pals and I would drill to the location around 10 p.m. and shank hook with a crappie minnow off the hook and swim away. But far
holes above structure and work the ran across the ice to distant shanties hooked through the back suspended more would take the wiggling min-
same areas where crappie would aglow from the light of lanterns. 8-20 inches off bottom. A split shot now into their mouth, hold on longer
school during spring and fall but we We asked fishermen if they were was placed about 12 inches from the and you would ice more crappies.
didn’t catch many fish. One lesson getting any crappie and much to our hook and we used a small bobber Today I use the same old strat-
from an old time ice fishermen and surprise anglers had hefty catches, to detect strikes. I became fond of egy but I have no bobber and only a
we discovered that winter crappie buckets full with some trophy fish using a gold hook for crappie and BB shot to take minnows deep and I
tend to school in deep water where mixed in. was convinced the light shimmered set the lively minnow at any desired
conditions are stable and more food That’s when we hammered off the metal shank attracted fish to depth by watching on my Vexilar
20 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
electronics. Most of the time I can of a strike. With the jig/waxie offer-
watch crappie slowly approach the ing I set the hook the instant crappie
dead stick lively minnow and see suck in the bait.
the take on my wiggling rod tip or Savvy Michigan fishermen who
spring bobber on the end of my rod. walk on water often pull pop-up
One of my deadliest tactics is to use style shanties that are lightweight,
two rods. Since I’m right handed warm and have enough head room
and prefer to jig with my right hand to set the hook. Some prefer the
I set a minnow near bottom and put single or two man models but for
the rod in a rod holder where I can night crappie I love the extra room
reach it with my left hand to set in my cabin style Shappell Deluxe
the hook. In the right hole I use a 400 two-man with four holes, door
spinning outfit rigged with 3 pound zippers, and marine carpeted floor,
Asso fluorocarbon line and use a pop-up ski system for dragging and
small jig tipped with a wax worm. 80-inch height to allow me to set the
I allow the jig to freefall to the bot- hook. I can set it up in minutes and
tom and slowly jig it upward using take it down and move to a new spot
a stair-step jigging cadence. The fast. Get two double lanterns glow-
entire time my eyes are glued on the ing in this baby and you don’t need
Vexilar electronics and when I see your jacket or gloves and there is
fish approaching the dancing jig I enough room for a comfortable chair
slow the jigging action. This is when and all the fishing goodies, plus you
I slowly move the offering slightly can see to bait hooks, unhook fish or
above the big red line on the graph. tie on itsy panfish hooks.
Now I twitch the jig by diddling the Some nights the fishing is
rod tip and hold it stationary. Now sizzling hot and the action is too
is the time to watch the rod tip or fast paced to use two lines. Other
spring bobber for the telltale twitch nights the action slows and you will
Dean Shippey of Eaton Rapids with rod bent double from a solid
hook up with a big crappie. Modern anglers jig with ultra-light rods,
custom reels, ice specific line and glow jigs that attract crappie
strikes all night.
spend more time waiting for strikes plastics like the Duppies or sparkle
than cranking up fish. My two rod tail colors on the paddle tail Skimp-
system can be quickly modified to ies. Again, Your Bobbers Down is
two double dead sticks with min- the source for the latest in ice fish-
nows or two jigging rods depending ing jigs and plastics.
on the mood of the fish. I always It is my opinion that on certain
begin every outing by jigging with nights crappie are somewhat lethar-
a glow Tungsten jig tipped with a gic and seem to prefer dead stick
wax worm. My favorite jig is a glow live minnow offerings. Most nights
black spots design model number you can get some active fish to fol-
E62 available from www.YourBob- low and strike a dancing jig tipped
bersDown.com or call (734) 316- with a waxie. When they are active,
7476. I like the 4mm size. At times fired up fish are attracted to plastics
you only need one rod to catch your giving you the added action to draw
limit. When you have several fish crappie long distances and entice
on the graph your best bet is to work strikes. Oh, I just want to tell you
the crappie at the top of the spindle that the above strategies sizzle when
shaped school. Fish highest in the fishing perch but for perch switch to
water column are usually the most the day shift.
active and likely to strike. Plus if There is something powerfully
you are harvesting fish from the top addictive about ice fishing at night.
of the school you are not disturbing The distant howl of coyote and
fish at the bottom that could strike constant pounding, loud snapping of
later. ice keep your senses alert. The ever
Another trick is to fish a plain present howling wind and blowing
jig on one rod and use a jig with snow is a reminder the arctic-like
scented plastic on the other. Crappie weather is one of God’s natural
like super soft scented plastic tails wonders. Ice fishing provides the
as much as bluegills. My suggestion ultimate in solitude and allows us
is to use the Little Atom soft plastics to place life’s troubles on the back
with Wolfram jigs for an unbeatable burner. Fishing changes lives for the
combination. Micro Nuggies are the better, especially those of kids. Then
Two anglers working jigs at night for deep water crappies. They ticket for bluegills and crappie love POW! You see the strike, set the
watch their electronics for the telltale bright red band of an incom- them colored white, hot chartreuse hook, and feel the feisty fish strug-
ing crappie. Once fish are spotted on electronics the lure is moved and glow. But don’t overlook the gling and another fat crappie comes
slightly above the target fish, jiggled then held stationary for a bite. attracting power of forked tail soft to the hole.n
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 21
Get “in-line” for more bites
A
vid trollers routinely and warm water masses. Scum lines
use in-line weights to are a great place to find coho, kings,
fish deeper and also lake trout and steelhead all feeding
to shorten up trolling together at or near the surface.
leads. It’s a foregone
conclusion that if you Surface
troll, sooner or later you’ll find need Wandering Walleyes
for adding weight in one fashion or Trout and salmon are not the
another to the fishing line. only species in the Great Lakes re-
The easiest means of getting gion that often feed near the surface.
popular trolling lures to run deeper Walleye are routinely found target-
is to simply add weight to the fish- ing emerald shiners which prefer to
ing line. The question becomes, live in the top 10 feet of the water
what types of in-line weights work column. Fish shaped keel sinkers
best for the different trolling situ- such as the Bass Pro Shops XPS
ations an avid angler is likely to Trolling Weights and also the Off
encounter? Shore Tackle Guppy Weights are a
great way to present nightcrawler
High Lines for Trout harnesses or what walleye guys
In the Great Lakes it’s common simply call spinners.
to find steelhead, coho, lakers and Keel sinker style weights work
even brown trout feeding near the nicely for trolling spinner
surface. Often one of the rigs. To avoid line twist,
best ways to target these it’s important to run a small
fish is by trolling a spoon, snap from the main line to
weighted using an egg the front of the keel weight
sinker threaded onto the and a snap swivel from the
line about five or six feet back of the keel sinker to
ahead of the spoon. the spinner leader.
This basic rig starts by Open water spinners
threading a plastic bead should be a Browns like this one caught by Jake Romanack are very susceptible
onto the main to wobbling plugs like this 3.5 Mag Lip. To get these lures deeper,
line followed
by either a 1/2,
By Mark Romanack little longer
than those com- the author commonly fishes them using a Sliding Sinker Rig.
monly used on
3/4 or one ounce egg sinker which is bottom bouncer rigs. The ideal open found a niche in the Great Lakes
and beyond. The beauty of the Snap
Sliding Sinker Rigs
in turn followed by another plastic water spinner rig is 60 to 72 inches Another way to fish crankbaits,
bead and then a small ball bearing long. Most spinner rigs come with a Weight is it can be placed anywhere trolling spoons and spinners near
swivel. The beads protect the rod pair of No. 2 beak or octopus style on the line the angler desires and bottom is known as the sliding
tip and also the knot that connects hooks. Many open water walleye quickly removed when fighting a sinker rig. Similar to a common
the ball bearing swivel to the leader. trollers prefer to tie their own spin- fish. three way swivel rig, the sliding
This simple rig is completed by ner rigs using a No. 6 treble hook as Separating the weight from the sinker rig allows the fish to take the
adding a five or six foot leader of 15 the tail hook and a No. 2 beak as the lure helps to trigger more strikes bait and not feel the resistance of the
to 20 pound test fluorocarbon line, a nose hook. when targeting spooky fish in clear weight.
quality ball bearing snap swivel and Spinner rigs equipped with water situations. One of the most To get started fishing a sliding
finally the trolling spoon. treble hooks do a better job of hook- popular set ups for trolling crank- sinker rig, thread a small plastic
Useful for targeting fish that are ing and landing larger and more baits with Snap Weights is a system bead onto the main line followed
within 10 feet of the surface, this powerful walleye. The ultimate recently popularized by Precision by running the line through one end
in-line weight set up is most effec- hooks for trolling open water spin- Trolling Data. “The crankbait/Snap of a barrel swivel. Next, thread a
tive when combined with either an ners are the super-premium models Weight data in the PTD phone apps second plastic bead onto the line and
in-line planer board or a dual mast like the Trokar series by Eagle consists of a standard lead length of then tie on a ball bearing swivel.
style planer system that gets these Claw. Available in the TK300 round 50 feet regardless of the crankbait The barrel swivel can now
rigs out away from the boat. Stack- bend and also the TK310 wide bend used,” says walleye pro Keith Kava- slide up and down the main line. A
ing two, three or more of these rigs series, these surgically sharp hooks jecz. “A two ounce Snap Weight is dropper lead ranging from 12 to 36
per side of the boat is especially penetrate with next to zero pressure, added to the line and then “dropper” inches is tied to the barrel swivel
deadly when targeting coho and making them ideal for slow trolling or additional lead is played off the and a barrel or pencil style sinker
brown trout that often pack up near applications. reel to control the diving depth. attached. The rig is completed by
the mouth of tributary streams that Currently the PTD phone apps adding a 60 to 72 inch leader of
drain into the Great Lakes. This sim- Snap Weighting Depths provide deadly accurate Snap fluorocarbon line as a leader termi-
ple in-line trolling rig is also a great The problem with Great Lakes Weight Dive Curves for 16 nated with a small snap for fishing
way to target steelhead and lake walleye is these fish can be found common walleye crankbaits at crankbaits and a snap swivel when
trout when these fish are using off on the surface one day and slurping three trolling speeds including fishing spinners or spoons.
shore temperature breaks commonly up gobies off the bottom the next. 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 MPH.” The sliding sinker rig is deadly
known as the “scum line”. One of the most efficient ways of The advantage of using a Snap for fishing walleye spinners in deep
In the Great Lakes, anglers will targeting structure hugging walleye Weight in combination with a crank- water. More efficient than a bottom
often encounter cold water and involves trolling a crankbait weight- bait is twofold. The Snap Weight bouncer at maintaining contact with
warmer water converging on the ed with a clip on style sinker known helps diving crankbaits achieve bottom in deep water, this same rig
surface. The temperature breaks that as the Snap Weight. deeper depths, but just as impor- can also be used to present small
are created attract a host of baitfish, Off Shore Tackle introduced the tantly using a Snap Weight allows profile wobbling crankbaits or
aquatic insects and even terrestrial Snap Weight nearly two decades anglers to reach target depths with trolling spoons in deep water when
insects that get caught in the slick ago and this simple to use and ef- shorter leads than would be possible
and debris formed between the cold fective in-line weight immediately trolling without weight on the line. Get “in-line” page 24
22 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 23
Get “in-line” for more bites:
from page 22
only to it’s big brother, the original Lock-Jaw! Holds mono, super
braids, power pro, lead core or copper lines without damaging the line!
Replaceable
The Mini Lock-Jaw fits The Walleye Board, TX-44, TX-22, TX-12 & TX-6 1 7/8” Long Pad
Pad
planer boards, but we recommend the full size Lock-Jaw for the TX-44. 1/2” Wide Locator holes for Line Protector inside
keeps line from making
Locator holes for
attaching to side-planers
The Mini Lock-Jaw is designed to fit other side planers, drop weights and attaching
to side-planers
WE DIDN’T INVENT CLIPS, contact with screw
Stingray
works for many other applications.
WE HAVE PERFECTED THEM!
Part# 40620, 2pk Color - yellow Replacement Pads part# 40701 6/pk Diving Weight
TX-007 Stern Planer & TX-005 Mini Stern Planer TX-44 Tournament Series Unique error-proof design allows anglers to put
more fish in the boat! Water strikes top surface,
The TX-44 is the first and the only in line planer to pull the large Divers,
(10 1/4” long, weighs about 3 oz) (7” long, weighs about 1.5 oz) Lead Core, Wire or Copper Lines and Heavy Weights. The size of the TX-44 forcing the Stingray downward. A fish on will
An all new type of planer! makes it harder for fish to pull the board under, however it is still easy to force the nose upward & Stingray to the surface.
retrieve. The Vise Clip comes standard with the TX-44; especially Available in unpainted or painted. 2 snaps for
rch Tackle Co. designed for lead core & copper, makes accidental each weight included
Chu E-Z Store Famous
release almost impossible. snaps off & on in seconds Lock-Jaw
TX-44 Tournament Series now for easy removal & storage Clip Size #1 - .7 oz
Easy to attach and remove. stained or off color water brighter,
available which comes with a #40300
Great for trolling in congested areas and more effective contour trolling along
Lock-Jaw Clip, Stainless Steel unpainted #40302 black flasher colors including orange, ice
drop offs contour lines, reef edges and weed lines in rivers, lakes or the ocean. Rear Pin and E-Z Store for easy pink and chartreuse are often the
Effective for all species. Run more lines out the back of the boat by staggering
the Stern Planers. Run any distance from the boat yet maintain desired depth.
tow-arm removal. Part# 30630
(14” x 4 1/4” x 7/8”)
Size #2 - 1.4 oz best choices. In clear water more
Standard TX-44 Part# 30610 Stainless Steel Rear Pin
natural chrome, pearl and silver fin-
EZ Store! For Your Planer Board Allows for easy Tournament Series ishes are the best flasher colors.
planer storage! Change #40303 unpainted #40304 orange
-22 SCop
RIGHT
ecia
l
tow-arm & clips in a snap!
TXChurch Tackle odus, MI
.S Upgrade Kit Summing It Up
Size #3 - 2.7 oz
hurchtackle.com
www.c
attaches to the Walleye Board, TX-44 ing is the most efficient method of
LEFT
& TX-22 side planers. Slide the tow-arm off for storage or change Includes a Lock-Jaw Clip covering water and contacting fish.
to another tow-arm & clip then slide back on when you’re ready to E-Z Store & Stainless
Adding weight to a trolling line
fish again. Part# 40519 sold 2 per package 1 left & 1 right Rear Pin Assembly. (Part# 30640) #40305 unpainted #40306 chartreuse
is often the best way to make an
Please check with your local tackle shop first, if they don’t carry our products visit us at www.churchtackle.com to view all already efficient fishing presentation
of our great American made fishing gear, or call us at 269-934-8528 to request a catalog.
even better.n
24 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
NRC honors William Demmer for commitment to conservation
T
he NRC presented East Lansing DNR director. impacts that the Boone and Crockett
resident William Demmer with “I’ve known Bill for 40 years, and Club has had on conservation in North
the Thomas L. Washington during this time he’s immersed himself in America.
Lifetime Commitment to Con- conservation and natural resources man- DNR Director Keith Creagh echoed
servation Award at its monthly meeting agement while advancing the concept of the others’ sentiments about the scope of
in Lansing. scientific management of these resourc- Demmer’s impact on Michigan.
“Bill’s long history of devotion to our es,” said Schlaybaugh. “He was person- “By providing our youth with count-
natural resources and scientific manage- ally responsible for a number of impact- less opportunities to engage in scientific
ment of these resources is well-docu- ful initiatives that have been incorporated management of natural resources through
mented and well-known by many,” said into the MSU College of Agriculture and training and hands-on experiences, Bill
NRC Chairman John Matonich. Natural Resources.” has helped to ensure that these resources William Demmer was honored Dec. 14 by
The award is named for the late The William A. Demmer Endowed will be here for future generations,” the NRC for his extensive contributions to
Tom Washington, a renowned Michigan Scholars Program encompasses a Creagh said. “Bill Demmer has been Michigan’s conservation effor ts. Pictured
here commission members Vicki Pontz,
conservationist and past director of the senior-level class on advocacy in natural a key conservation leader in Michigan Rex Schlaybaugh and Christine Crumbaugh;
Michigan United Conservation Clubs. resources and a 13-week internship in and his opinion is routinely sought Demmer; commission chair John Matonich;
The award recognizes lifetime commit- Washington, D.C. It is designed to articu- and valued on complex conservation commission members Chris Tracy and Louise
ment to conservation, natural resources late the history, policies and significant issues.”n Klarr; and DNR Director Keith Creagh.
management or outdoor recreation and
assisting the MDNR in carrying out
its mission by providing outstanding
volunteer, partner or professional service.
Demmer has accomplished this and much
more.
“I’ve had an opportunity to really
explore and engage with my passion for
conservation,” Demmer said. “I’ve been
able to bring a skill set from different
work environments into the world of con-
servation, helping to make a difference
in this great, beautiful state of ours. This
award signifies that my contributions
have made an impact. It’s an honor.”
From 2012 to 2014, Demmer served
as president of the Boone and Crockett
Club, a prestigious national organization
that for more than 125 years has been at
the forefront of improving conservation
issues.
Demmer was a major force in estab-
lishing the Boone and Crockett Chair in
Wildlife Conservation at Michigan State
University in the College of Agriculture
and Natural Resources, Department of
Fisheries and Wildlife. This collaboration
between MSU and Boone and Crockett
Club members helps to bridge science
and conservation policy by developing
and promoting leadership to public and
private organizations.
He also has worked tirelessly to assist
MSU in expanding its conservation and
natural resources investments, includ-
ing co-founding and funding the MSU
Flygirls Program, which offers fly-fishing
classes and experiences to the next gen-
eration of women fisheries biologists.
With the assistance of his family,
Demmer established the John and Marnie
Demmer Shooting Sports, Education and
Training Center on the campus of MSU,
a fully endowed, world-class facility
dedicated to many of the same prin-
ciples as the Boone and Crockett Club:
promotion of firearms safety, hunter
safety, wildlife management education
and shooting sports skills development.
The 24,000-square-foot facility allows
the public to learn shooting safety and
improve shooting and archery skills, in
addition to housing MSU club shooting
sports, including small bore, air rifle and
archery.
Most recently, Demmer co-chaired
the DNR’s Blue Ribbon Committee on
Southern Michigan State Game Areas, re-
sulting in a number of important recom-
mendations to make more attractive and
better utilize these vital public-owned
areas.
Demmer was nominated for the
award by current NRC member Rex
Schlaybaugh. Nominations must be
submitted for consideration by a member
of the commission. Recipients are chosen
by the NRC in consultation with the
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 25
WETLANDS
A vital resource for Michigan’s wildlife, environment, citizenry...
By Casey Warner, Michigan Department of Natural Resources
W
hen thinking about Michi-
gan’s important, valuable
landscapes, many of us first
think of the Great Lakes,
northern forests and sandy
beaches. Wetlands might
not immediately come to mind.
They certainly didn’t for early Michigan
settlers, who were less than impressed with the
state’s abundance of swamps and marshes – more
than 10 million acres of wetlands before Euro-
pean settlement.
“The banks of the Detroit River are hand-
some, but nine-tenths of the land in the Territory
is unfit for cultivation,” said General Duncan
McArthur, stationed at Fort Detroit, in 1814.
The 1816 Tiffin Report by Edward Tiffin,
surveyor general of the United States, had equally
disparaging things to say about Michigan’s land
and agricultural potential, including: “Michigan
apparently consisted of swamps, lakes, and poor,
sandy soil not worth the cost of surveying. Not
more than one acre in a hundred, or perhaps a
thousand, could be cultivated.” More than 50 percent of Michigan’s wetlands, like this one in Marquette County – now recognized
In the two centuries that followed, about for their impor tance to wildlife, people, the environment and the economy – have been lost over
half of Michigan’s original wetlands have been the last two centuries.
drained and filled.
now we’re focused on restoring wetlands to re- ist. “Some go duck hunting every year, while oth-
Wetlands Value place those impacted by agriculture, public works ers sit on their back porches and watch the annual
“Michigan was once considered a mosquito- projects and development that are also important fall waterfowl migrations. And many citizens get
infested, godforsaken swamp, and wetlands to the state.” clear drinking water from groundwater purified
were drained to establish roads and agriculture Today, we recognize the value of wetlands, by Michigan’s wetlands.”
and build communities,” said Steve Shine, who even celebrate them with observances like Ameri- In 1979, the Michigan legislature passed the
coordinates wetland mitigation banking – the can Wetlands Month in May, and the need to state’s wetlands protection statute, which recog-
process of establishing new wetland areas before conserve them. nizes the benefits and important functions and
development or other projects impact existing “Michigan residents, whether they know it or values provided by wetlands. Administered by the
wetland areas – for the Michigan Department of not, have a strong connection to our state’s wet- Michigan Department of Environmental Quality,
Natural Resources. “This historic conversion of lands and the waterfowl that rely on them,” said Michigan’s wetlands protection statute requires
wetlands has made Michigan what it is today, but Barb Avers, DNR waterfowl and wetland special- permits for construction activities in wetlands.
What Exactly is a Wetland?
Michigan law defines a wetland as “land char-
acterized by the presence of water at a frequency
and duration sufficient to support, and that under
normal circumstances does support, wetland veg-
etation or aquatic life, and is commonly referred
to as a bog, swamp, or marsh.”
More simply put, wetlands are areas where
land and water meet.
They are characterized by the presence of
water that saturates the soil or covers the land for
some or all of the year, which leads to the devel-
opment of plant and animal communities adapted
to these conditions.
The three major types of wetlands are
marshes, which have standing water from less
than an inch to several feet deep and might be
called flooded grasslands; swamps, dominated
by woody plants and best described as flooded
woodlands or shrublands; and bogs, which occur
where accumulations of decaying vegetation
form mats that eventually cover and then fill in
old ponds or lakes.
Wetlands play a critical role in managing
Waterfowl hunting trips, which take place largely in wetland areas, generate $22 million each year in Michigan. Wetlands page 28
26 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
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30 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
snowfall and a set of red fox tracks while using a firearm, which is a dis-
and I’ll be trying to “walk up” a fox tinct bonus I truly appreciate these
during the winter. Whether or not I days. Predator callers, while station-
catch up with old Reynard isn’t the ary and calling, are not required to
point, it is purely the challenge of wear hunter orange, but when preda-
pursuing and matching wits with a tor callers are on the move however,
master predator. adequate hunter orange is required.
Last but not least is predator While foxes and coyotes possibly
calling, a distinct wintertime passion may not see color to any extent,
of mine. I used to only use mouth I’ve found out they are quick to
calls (always make sure you have pick things out of contrast as well as
more than one mouth call due to the they possess an amazing peripheral
reed freezing up in subzero weather vision. Being able to blend into the
– keep the spare calls warm under surrounding cover and topography
your coat), but not that many years is always a distinct asset to predator
ago I started to use a Johnnie Stew- calling. And watch the wind direc-
art Electronic caller and became tion per your calling setup, because
smitten right away. Of course mine foxes and coyotes especially, have
is the older design that weighs near- scenting abilities par excellence and
ly 20 pounds and has its own duffel will frequently try to circle to the
bag (use the right tape cassette and downwind side before committing
it does great for crows as well), but themselves to a calling sequence.
we are now in the digital age, and Centerfire rifles and pistols of
the new digital calls are extremely any caliber have been legal for quite
compact and lightweight, and I’m awhile to hunt predators (except
seriously considering upgrading. during the firearms deer season)
The less bulk and weight I have to during daytime hunting hours in
haul into the field these days, the what was once known as the “shot-
better and all the remote electronic gun deer zone” (a favorite “coyote
systems allow the calling sequence rifle” of mine for the Thumb area
to be away from you, which is is a Marlin lever-action .30-30). A
certainly an asset. I often also use a year ago, the NRC allowed center-
battery-operated decoy that creates fire rifles and pistols .269 caliber Collin Geister of Kingston took this large 60 plus pound female Thumb
motion and a realistic focus point or smaller, as well as buckshot no coyote at night last January. Obviously, Michigan coyotes can be on the
for an incoming predator whether larger than number 3 to be used for big side. Abe Geister family photo
using electronic or mouth calls (in nighttime predator hunting (review
the old days I used a pheasant wing the 2017 Michigan Hunting and and the number 4 buckshot in a the annual deer seasons come to a
on a string and attached it to a bush Trapping Digest for details). Be- 12 ga, which are phenomenal close, predator hunting (that “other
where it would twirl with the slight- cause I prefer a shotgun for night- performing shotgun loads for season”) makes my winters a whole
est breeze). time predator hunting, my personal tough coyotes. lot shorter, not to mention extremely
My eldest son Jake requested favorites in this regard are the One thing is for certain, when a challenging and entertaining.
and recently received for Christmas number 3 buckshot in a 20 ga lot of hunters tend to hibernate after It works for me folks!n
a “Lucky Duck Rebel Predator Call”
which is the size of a lunch box, has
multiple calls (including for crows)
and even features a pop up decoy
No Electricity? Keep Your Food Cold!
that twirls about. Jake plans on ex-
periencing “the other season” with
his 14 year-old daughter McKenna
this winter.
Predator callers in Michigan
have some relatively new advan-
tages today. You can take predators
(fox and coyote per daylight hunting
hours only) from a raised platform
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“red-bird”
E
State Birds become Michigan’s winter state
bird in the Lower Peninsula, and the
very state in the United
States has an of- ruffed grouse gets crowned
ficial state bird. as the winter state bird of
The state bird the Upper Peninsula. A bit
selection is sup- of clarification is in order:
posedly made Northern cardinals are
based on the bird’s unique- year round non-migratory
ness or significance to the residents of Michigan, but
state. I’m beginning to with its striking red plumage
wonder about that. Illinois, surrounded by a sea of white
Indiana, snow, it’s
Kentucky,
North
By Jonathan Schechter in a class
of its own
Male cardinal amidst frozen berries, they are omnivores and accept
what nature or humankind offers. Jonathan Schechter photo
Carolina, Ohio, Virginia and West for stun-
ning beauty, and that would make it first noted in the southernmost part fact that human activities are fueling
Virginia all have the northern of our state in the early 1800s and global climate change. Couple that
cardinal as their state bird. I’ve got unique and significant to Michigan.
they never even made it into the Up- dose of reality with human altered
a feeling the choice is really made The Hunt for Red Bird per Peninsula until about 40 years habitat that is attractive to cardinals,
based on the bird’s popularity, and If you are out looking for north- ago. No one however disputes that and add the fact there are now more
perhaps the ease to identify, “Hey ern cardinals it’s best to concentrate northern cardinals are expanding folks feeding birds, and the perfect
look! There’s a red-bird!” your exploration in the southern their range. The northern coloniza- storm is set for cardinals heading
And if I my theory is right, counties of Michigan. Records sug- tion is most likely a combination northward and westward.
perhaps the northern cardinal should gest that northern cardinals were of factors including the undeniable Cardinals are not birds of the
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HuntinIt_70824 Hunting Guide 6/29/17 dr/dr/dr KPC Media Group PROOF
Corrections must be made by 2:00 WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 33
Full Page #43 Machele 4-COLOR p.m. Thursday, June 22 or ad will be
assumed correct and run as is.
WINTER
FISHERIES
You must try...By John Bergsma
W
ell, with all the eye and perch are readily found on
early sustained or around the expansive weedlines
cold weather, that dominate the shoreline breaks.
the ice fisher- The fish use these not only for cover
man will have but as a feeding area. The weeds
a great selec- simply hold much of the smaller
tion of awesome fisheries to choose baitfish and aquatic life that inhabits
from this winter season. I’m going it. Fishing here is as simple as small
to concentrate on excellent options jigging spoons tipped with minnow
for both perch and walleye. These heads or light line tip-up sets using
are my favorite species to fish for shiners. The bite for panfish is out
during the winter months. So, try of sight as well on Hamlin. The best
these spots for a wonderful winter spot for great bait and information is The key to fishing Hamlin Lake is directly connected to the weeds and
fishing excursion. at the local bait shop. In Ludington, breaks that are literally everywhere throughout this fun lake.
that is Captain Chucks II. If you’re
Ludington looking for a great lakeside resort,
to remember. This is a true fisher-
man’s resort. Located directly on
ing the groups of fish go through is
quite the experience. It’s the U.P.
Hamlin Lake Sunset Bluffs is very fisherman
friendly.
the bay, it’s the best access spot and so a shelter is a good idea. It can
For decades now, this has been the information you can gather there get real cold as well as breezy, so
one of the premier ice fishing lakes Munuscong Bay to ensures that you’ll be on the fish.
As far as the presentations go, it’s a
come prepared. As for the hot areas?
Drummond Island
in the state of Michigan! Hamlin The tips of the islands are always
offers a very diverse fishery and it is jigging spoons and tip-up situation. good. Finding the gravel humps and
relatively easy to have success. This is one of my favorite places I like group fishing, so that we can bars is also a plus for catch rates. If
The key to fishing Hamlin is di- to combo fish. The bite here is con- set up 6 tip-ups and still each jig for you’re looking for the best informa-
rectly connected to the weeds and sistently good and the experience of both perch and walleye. The bay is tion, Wilderness Treasures Bait and
breaks that are literally everywhere the weekends is something to see. very shallow so in most cases you Tackle in Pickford is right on the
throughout this fun lake. The wall- A trip to Dan’s Resort is a weekend can easily see the bottom and watch- turn heading towards the Resort. A
n B e r g sm a
Joh Now on...
Fox Sports Detroit • Sundays 7am
Visit our website and find out about . . .
• Destinations • Fishing Reports •
• Our Show • Cooks Corner •
FIREWOOD BY T H E
Harrison, MI 48625
www.billsbylumber.com
Doug’s Small Engine
SEMI-LOAD 5293 E. Pickard Street • Mount Pleasant, MI 48858
Phone (989)773-0059 • www.DougsSmallEngine.com
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 35
A year later...he’s still birdie!
Pittman-Robertson funds may be possibility for pheasant proposal
I
t’s been over a year now hunting in Michigan will never be
since Ken Dalton walked what it once was. “Do you know we
into our office and politely have nearly three decades of people
but sternly said, “I think it’s who have not hunted pheasants in
time for Michigan to offer Michigan?” I remember Ken telling
a pheasant hunting program me the first time we met.
that recruits young hunters into the Now don’t think for a second
world of the outdoors!” Ken doesn’t understand the reasons
He carried with him piles of why pheasant hunting is so poor
news clippings and reports on today in Michigan. He understands
pheasants and pheasant hunting. the effect of large farms, the use of
Simply put, Ken wants sports- pesticides, lack of grass lands, loss
men, young or old, to have the of habitat and increase in predators.
opportunity to hunt pheasants either Ken is a supporter of Pheasants
once again or for the very first time. Forever, The Pheasant Restora-
Ken is soft spoken but serious, tion Incentive and any and all other
he meant what he said. And he con- programs which promote pheasant
tinues his mission to make it hap- hunting.
pen. In the past year he has spoken Recently, the U.S. Fish and
to clubs and organizations all across Wildlife Service released survey
the state with his ideas. His tenac- results that show a decline of 2.2
ity has drawn many sportsmen to The newly formed Michigan Pheasant Hunting Initiative unveils its million hunters since 2011. And a
his cause. Together they formed an new logo and speaks to raise and release pheasant hunting issues. 27 percent reduction in small game
organization to help continue the hunting, with a 6 percent decrease in
work, Michigan Pheasant Hunting ergy and sometimes lots of money. feels like no one is listening, there total hunter spending.
Initiative. Well, they have lots of energy! may be some hope on the horizon. In the stacks of material Ken has
Like any organization to con- Money is another story. Ken’s passion and determination brought me over the past year, is an
tinue the struggle, it takes lots of en- Even though sometimes Ken to draw attention and help create a article written by Howard Vincent,
public land, raise and release pheas- President and CEO of Pheasants
ant program has not wavered in the Forever. Here is a portion of the ar-
past twelve months. In fact, it may ticle by Mr. Vincent. And it just may
have gotten stronger. You can still be the break Ken has been looking
hear that passion in his voice. for.
“There are twenty other states “Pheasants Forever welcomes
who have a pheasant stocking pro- U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan
gram for the use in recruitment of Zinke’s decision to expand hunting
new hunters and financial gain for and fishing, enhance conserva-
NEW AND USED FIREARMS - ACCESSORIES - AMMUNITION
the state,” he tells me. “Michigan tion stewardship, improve wildlife
TOP
TOP CA$H PRICE$ PAID FOR GUN$ could and should be one of them!” management and
TOP CA$H
CA$H PRICE$
PRICE$ PAID
PAID FOR
FOR GUN$
GUN$ Ken states. increase outdoor
And there just may be some help recreation oppor-
in the very near future. tunities.
There are many who miss the Zinke’s order
good ol’ days of Michigan pheasant seeks to improve
hunting. Most understand pheasant wildlife manage-
By Randy Jorgensen
TONY HAS BEEN CONSISTENT FOR OVER 30 YEARS ON TROPHY CLASS WHITETAILS, Check O
49 IN ALL, USING HIS UNIQUE HUNTING AND ULTIMATE LAND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. Our All- ut
N
Here is a small example of the Ultimate Buck Zoning System. Here, We b s i t e e w
at the amazing Whitetail Habitat Research Center which encom- !
passes only 52 acres, with only 23 acres of those woods. In the
spring of 2014 we found 44 sheds, in 2015 - 46 sheds, thats 90 Tony will be speaking at the
following 2018 shows . . .
sheds in just two years! In 2016 I had 22 different bucks come
under my stand on the same day! There is no other system that MICHIGAN OHIO
comes close to this! - Tony LaPratt Huntin Time Expo Field & Stream:
Grand Rapids, MI Deer & Turkey Expo
2018 BOOT CAMP DATES Jan 26-28 Columbus, OH
March 16-18
Field & Stream: Deer
• February 23-24 • March 29-30 • May 4-5
(Friday and Saturday) (Thursday to Friday) (Friday and Saturday)
& Turkey Expo WISCONSIN
Lansing, MI Tony
• March 23-24 • April 20-21 Field & Stream: LaPratt
Feb 16-18
(Friday and Saturday) (Friday and Saturday)
Deer & Turkey Expo with 2017
Outdoorama Madison, WI Michigan
2018 Advanced Whitetail and Coyote Camp
For former boot camp attendees only. Novi, MI March 1-4 April 6-8 Bow Buck
• March 9-10 • April 27-28 • July 13-14 INDIANA
(Friday and Saturday) (Friday and Saturday) (Friday and Saturday) D o n’ t W
as
Another te
• April 13-14 • May 11-12 MICHIANA Outdoor
(Friday and Saturday) (Friday and Saturday) Sportsman Show
Shipshewana, IN Season!
March 2-3
“You Will Never Regret It!”
Gordon Whittington - (of North American Whitetail Magazine and TV) -- “It’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years since we were talking
about ultimate buck and doe beds. Tony, I have talked to the best deer hunters and land managers in the country. And there is nobody
doing anything like this, you are the first!”
Stan Potts - (Legendary TV Host and Trophy Hunter) -- “Tony, you don’t know what you just did, this will change everything in the
whitetail world. The way we manager and hunt forever. Everybody is going to want a piece of this! Be careful on who you tell, lots of
people would like to take credit for something this big!”
Steve Bartylla - (Outdoor Writer) -- “Tony LaPratt , is the Godfather of modern-day Habitat Improvements. It was nearly 20 years ago
that Tony showed me pictures of his unconventional Buck and Doe bedding areas, and explained how and why they’re so beneficial.”
Dave Henderson - (outdoor writer) wrote: -- “Tony LaPratt, is the most respected authority on whitetail habitat and deer hunting that you’ve
Tony LaPratt ever heard of.” “Physics had Einstein. The deer world’s equivalent is Tony LaPratt,” “He’s definitely a genius,” “Tony is able to build a gender-
with another trophy
2017 Buck specific bedding areas, for bucks, does, and fawning area.”
There is nothing out there even comparable to this amazing whitetail boot camp.
We’re #1 In The Country For A Reason!
Check Out Ed Spinazzola’s NEW So if record book bucks are TRULY YOUR DREAM,
DVD ULTIMATE CORN-BASED
DEER KILL PLOTS THEN IT’S A NO BRAINER! CALL LESA LaPRATT (AKA THE ALPHA DOE) TODAY!
Call 517-238-4566 or: 1-269-832-0990
Website: www.deerattraction.com 310 S. Angola Road • Coldwater, MI 49036
www.tonylapratt.com tony@tonylapratt.com
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 41
Downforand
more
Dirty
WALLEYE
The one thing no
walleye fisherman
walleye into biting in stained water
are often simply ignored in clear
water.
wants to find when he Anglers who are forced to fish
for walleye in clear water compen-
gets to his favorite spot sate by using ultra clear fluorocar-
is dirty water. When bon lines, fishing in low light or
after dark and also by using Snap
targeting sight feeding Weights to separate trolling weights
species like walleye, from lures to create a more stealthy
trolling presentation.
dirty water can be the Clear water makes for tough
O
kiss of death... fishing conditions as much as dirty
water limits angling success. The
bviously when the ideal water clarity for targeting
water is dirty and walleye tends to be stained water
fish can’t see very conditions that put these fish on
well, it’s going to be the prowl, yet prevent them from
challenging to catch too closely scrutinizing the popular
them. Thankfully, lures and live bait rigs used to catch
there are a few tactics that anglers them.
can use to scratch out walleye bites Unfortunately, walleye anglers
even when the water clarity is less are not always blessed with ideal
than desirable. water clarity conditions. On Great
Lakes fisheries like Saginaw Bay
How Clear is too Clear? or Lake Erie, walleye anglers often
Before we even tackle the topic
travel great distances in search of
of targeting walleye in dingy water
the “just right” water clarity before
conditions, it’s important to discuss
setting lines.
briefly the sight feeding habits of
Satellite images are a very use-
walleye. One look at the walleye
ful tool for finding what charter Using brightly colored lures helps walleye that are sight feeders find baits
and it’s obvious this species uses the
captains often refer to as when the water clarity is poor. We’re not so sure the bright yellow sweat-
sense of sight more than a
“green” water. “Clear water shir t is helping much. Mark Romanack photos
lot of other species.
appears blue to the eye,
Walleye have large job of mitigating the problems of do is open the reel bail and let the
while stained water tends
eyes that do a great job of low water clarity. blade bait free-fall to bottom. Close
to be green in color,” says
collecting light and allow- the reel bail, reel up the slack line
Captain Ron Levitan of
ing them to enjoy a sight
R&D Sportfishing Charters.
Focus On Vibration and when the weight of the lure can
advantage at twilight, in When water clarity drops, many be felt loading the rod tip, give the
“Satellite pictures make it
the dark and also in dingy anglers turn to lures that compensate rod a sharp upwards twitch using
possible to avoid dirty wa-
water conditions. This is by providing more fish attracting your wrist.
ter, avoid water
precisely why vibration. The blade bait is perhaps
By Mark Romanack that is too clear The goal here is to lift the blade
walleye are the best example of an artificial bait about a foot off bottom quickly
and to zero in
such efficient lure that performs very well in dirty and then to follow up by dropping
on the stained or green water that
predators and also why this species water conditions thanks to an excep- the bait back to bottom on a taunt
routinely holds the most fish.”
is often most active early in the day, tional amount of vibration. line. This jigging stroke brings out
late in the day and also at night. Muddy Water Blade baits are metal lures that the vibration of the blade bait, but
It’s interesting to note that wall- As long as there are windy days, feature a minnow shaped blade controls the descent giving nearby
eye in many water clarity conditions anglers who target walleye are going punched out of a thin sheet of brass, fish a little extra time to react. Most
enjoy a distinctive sight advantage to be faced with fishing in dirty wa- with a lead weight molded onto the of the strikes on a blade bait come
over the prey species they feed ter conditions. Wind and the waves bottom. Normally these lures feature as the bait is falling or a few sec-
most often on. Unfortunately, in that result are the primary reason a line tie attachment point near the onds after the bait has pulled tight
clear water much of that advantage that popular walleye destinations of- top of the bait. against the line.
is lost because prey species have ten get whipped into a muddy froth. Some of the more popular blade The biggest mistake made with
the advantage of spotting walleye Spring and fall are the most baits on the market include the Reef blade baits is when anglers jig them
before they can get close enough for turbulent times of the year and not Runner Cicada, the Heddon Sonar too aggressively and allow the bait
an ambush. surprisingly these are the seasons and Johnson ThinFisher. Something to fall on a slack line. In this situa-
Very clear water also makes for when anglers are most likely to face that all blade baits share in common tion, the hooks on a blade bait tend
tough fishing conditions because in dirty water. It’s a forgone conclusion is a tight vibrating action that is so to foul on the main line. A sharp lift-
clear water walleye have the luxury that fishing in muddy water is going pronounced it can easily be felt even ing stroke, followed by a controlled
of seeing further and also in more to make for tough fishing, but there by novice anglers. To unleash this drop keeps the blade bait vibrating,
detail. Lures that routinely fool are fishing methods that do a good unique action all an angler needs to creates a slower drop and eliminates
42 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
line fouling problems. fact is that lures which are painted
Blade baits are very effective black or other dark shades like
when drifting and vertical jigging purple also show up well in dirty
over bottom structure. Blades can water. Dark colors feature more
also be casted and retrieved slowly contrast making them visible even
so as to keep the bait scooting along in dirty water conditions.
bottom.
The spawning reefs on Lake Erie
Color Treating Live Bait
Live bait remains a staple for
are one of the places that blade baits Bait dyes do a great job of coloring minnows so they are more visible to
anglers who target walleye in the walleye when jig fishing in dir ty water conditions.
enjoy the most popularity. From
Great Lakes region. In the early
the mouth of the Maumee River
springtime, minnows are especially been dyed produces far better than out refrigeration.
in Toledo east to the Bass Islands
region, there are dozens of reefs that
popular with walleye anglers and untreated minnows when fishing in Pro Cure produces Super Gel in
later in the spring and summer dirty water conditions. dozens of formulas, but some of the
attract spawning walleye in March
nightcrawlers become the live bait
and April.
of choice. Flash Matters most popular among walleye anglers
include Alewife, Gizzard Shad,
These reefs are clearly marked
Minnows and nightcrawlers Using bright colors helps fish
on the mapping units of most mod- spot lures and baits in dingy wa- Emerald Shiner, Smelt and the Min-
can be easily treated with bait dyes now versions. For the best results
ern sonar units, making it easy to ter conditions. Another trick is to
find these fishing hot spots. Many of
when faced with dirty water. Pro
incorporate extra flash when trolling apply a drop or two of fishing scent
Cure produces a product known as about every 20 to 30 minutes.
the most popular reefs are located walleye spinner rigs, spoons and
Bad Azz Bait Dye that comes in a
a short boat ride from Fenwick
two ounce squeeze bottle. Available crankbaits. Scented Plastics
Marina, but there are spawning reefs One of the easiest ways to ac- A number of manufacturers have
in several colors including char-
scattered throughout the region.
treuse, orange, pink, red, purple and complish this is by simply adding figured out unique ways to incorpo-
A Color Blast blue, simply squeeze a drop or two a four inch Big Al Fish Flash to the rate fish attracting scents into soft
When fishing in dirty water, directly onto minnows or night- back of popular divers including plastic baits. Some of the first scent
anglers in the know compensate by crawlers. the Tadpole Diver, Dipsy Diver, impregnated plastics were Berkley
using gaudy colored lures and baits. To achieve a richer color that is Jet Diver and Big Jon Mini Disks. Power Bait and Gulp. Yum also
Brightly colored fluorescent lures more visible and lasts longer, soak Because the Fish Flash is triangle has a wide variety of scent impreg-
are more visible and tend to produce minnows or crawlers in a container in shape and spins on its own axis, nated plastics suitable for walleye
better in dirty water than traditional with a few drops of Bad Azz Bait it doesn’t interfere with the diving fishing.
color options. Another little known Dye. Using minnows that have ability or function of these products. For those anglers who have
Adding flash when trolling with faith in Pro Cure Super Gel, Z-Man
divers works wonders in dirty to plastics have recently expanded
stained water conditions. their lineup of Elaztech plastics to
Fish Scent Makes Sense incorporate Pro Cure Super Gel.
“Unlike other soft plastics, Elaztech
When fish are forced to feed in
dirty water, they use their sense of is oil based and soaks up the natural
smell to help them home in on their fish oils found in Pro Cure like a
next meal. Adding fishing scent to sponge,” explains Daniel Nussbaum
hard baits, soft plastics and even of Z-Man.
live bait is a good way to create a The scented Z-Man Elaztech
fish attracting scent stream in the plastics are available in a curl tail
water. grub, paddle tail, leech and jerk shad
The problem with most fishing designs ideal for walleye jig fishing
scents is they are water soluble and applications.
wash off almost as quickly as they Summing It Up
are applied. Pro Cure Super Gel is Catching walleye in dirty water
made by dehydrating real forage fish is tough, but not impossible. Incor-
species, grinding it into a powder porating some of the tricks of the
and then mixing with a special gel walleye pros can help put walleye in
Getting down and dir ty with blade baits is one of the best ways to nab a that stabilizes the scent so it stays the boat even when the water is the
limit of Ohio walleye on the spawning reefs in April. put on lures and remains fresh with- color of chocolate milk.n
C
olossal, enormous,
heavyweight, mam-
moth, bad boy, reel
spinning, hefty, whop-
per in the net. Master
Angler Award. Texting
buddies, walleye selfie, man cave,
taxidermy trip on the horizon. That’s
right! Time to head to the taxidermy
to get that oversized beast mounted.
Make sure that fish makes it to the
man cave in perfect condition.
Catch a big boy and the deci-
sions pile on quickly. Keep or re-
lease; mount or eat; skin or replica;
commercial or custom. Decisions,
decisions, decisions… It’s time to
get some advice from several pro-
fessional taxidermists who special-
ize in fish mounts and reproductions
to help us decide what the best
option is and how to get your fish
delivered to the taxidermy in perfect
condition.
The first decision for a trophy
fish is to decide if you want a replica
or skin mount. Skin mounted fish
have been the norm until recent
years. Most recently, reproductions
started looking outrageously real
thus becoming more popular. When The first decision for a trophy fish is to decide if you want a replica or skin mount. Either way, good
you decide to go with a skin mount photographic evidence helps the taxidermist match your fish tones and colors. Author photo
it’s unique because the taxidermy
uses some of the parts from the actu- stringer is common practice. How- sure nothing is set on top; this important for a good replica. The
al fish and any unique characteristics ever, if you catch a trophy, keep it causes discoloration in the fish. more pictures the better. You know
remain. Over time some of the oils separate from the rest so the fish do 6) Freezer Burn: It can stay all those fish are different. Good
may leak through and cause some not beat each other up, damaging in the freezer for 3-6 months. Not photographic evidence helps the
discoloration or skin shrinkage. their fins. Do your best to retain the much longer. It’s important to taxidermist match your fish tones
Reproductions look a whole lot fish as you caught it, don’t damage ensure the fish doesn’t get freezer and colors. Ideally higher resolu-
better than skin mounts after a de- the scales, and avoid cutting the burn. tion pictures, close-up, and different
cade of age because there is gills to bleed this walleye. Replica Requirements angles. Try to take pictures that are
never any discoloration or In a live well make sure Decide on a replica instead, now not in direct sunlight, partly cloudy
shrinkage. Reproductions there is plenty of water to it’s time to decide if you want a cus- days are the best.
can be made after the fish is keep it alive and cool while tom mold or a commercial replica. 2) Length Measurements: A
released unharmed or eaten. fishing. A custom mold is a cast mold and good length measurement provides
It’s also very unique to be 2) Ice Cold: The spring rather expensive, however if you an accurate representation. Wat-
able to mount a fish caught river water is cool enough bring in the fish, an exact copy is terson tells his clients to keep a soft
in the past. I think it is cool to keep the color in your created. Ideal if you catch some- flexible tape in the tackle box to get
that the fish is still swim- fish. Heat will cause some thing really unique. Most fishermen the best measurements.
ming after you’ve of the fish discolor- prefer a commercial replica, which 3) Girth Measurement: Find
caught and released
it back into the wild. By Brian Miller ation. After fish-
ing, get the fish on
provides an outstanding quality and
can be customized to look exactly
the widest point on the fish and get
a good girth measurement. This is
Regardless of your the top of the ice. like your trophy. typically around the belly of the
decision, let’s cover what you need Place the side of the fish you want The taxidermist can make sure it walleye. No need to get multiple
to do after you catch a mammoth displayed up in the cooler. Keep it has the perfect coloration that your measurements because that can
walleye. on the top of the ice and out of the trophy fish displayed. This is impor- become confusing.
Skin Mounted Fish Handling water. Water flushes the color from tant because fish from different parts The advice provided will help
Now that you’ve managed to do the fish. of the country have very different you ensure you have the best fish
the impossible and catch a huge fish 3) The Sooner the Better: Ide- coloration. Replicas allow the fisher- mount and help decide which is the
it is time to properly handle it. It’s ally get the fish into the taxidermy man to get some pictures and release best option for you. Regardless of
important to make sure you preserve right away, the sooner the better to the fish to catch another day. If what you decide, mounting a fish
the memory and the fish so it will retain the colors. you’re interested in getting a replica is a way to celebrate and remember
last far into the future. These are 4) Freezer Time: If you can’t made there are only three simple the adventure. Reflecting back on
the 6 factors to ensure your trophy is get it in right away, wrap the fish requirements before you release that the time you spent on the water,
delivered to the taxidermy without in a white wet cloth then wrap it in monster back into the water. the fish you caught and people you
any damage. plastic. 1) Great Pictures: Not only spent time with. Each time I look
1) Keep it Separate: In the river 5) Face Up: Always face the do you want a couple pictures to at a mount it reminds me of those
hanging fish together on the same walleye face up in the freezer. Make send off to your buddies but this is memories.n
OUTDOORAMA • NOVI
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BASS FISHING DEER HUNTING DEER HUNTING MUSKIE FISHING LAND MANAGEMENT
NIGHT
a thrilling dog sport entertainment show that
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The dogs amaze audiences as they flip and fly to
THURSDAY NIGHT ONLY snatch Frisbees out of the air and race through
obstacle courses with breathtaking speed. Spectators,
Presented by Michigan Out-of-Doors TV children and adults alike leave The Marvelous Mutts’
shows with smiles on their faces…after they pick their jaws up off the ground!
Show. Celebrity hosts Jimmy Gretzinger
The Marvelous Mutts team members have appeared on ESPN’s Great Outdoor Games,
and Jenny Olsen will interview the lucky Good Morning America, The Early Show, Fox & Friends, and The Late Show with David
Michigan hunters who bagged some of the Letterman. This seasoned crew of performing canines, all adopted from shelters and
largest whitetail deer of the season. rescue groups and each with an amazing story, showcase their athleticism in a fast-paced,
high energy, action-packed show!
DEER
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Sponsored by
Presented by
Country Smoke House
3pm Saturday
on the Main Stage
Dick VanRaalte, from Starboard Marine Restorations of Grand Haven, outfitters and pros.
SPECIAL PULL OUT
MI, who restores wood and fiberglass boats, will be on hand all four
days of the show exhibiting one of his restored classic boats as well SPORTSMEN’S GRILL
as a display of vintage outboards. Outdoorama visitors are invited to A large dining area has been designated
come in and talk to Dick about boat restoration projects or to bring in as the site of the Sportsmen’s Grill food
old outboard motors for him to appraise. Visit Starboard Marine on the court. After rave reviews last winter, the
web at www.boatrestorations.com. area has acquired “Ultimate” status with
an expanded menu, a family entertainment
TROUT POND area and a large bar popular with
Operated by Michigan B.A.S.S. sportsmen. A basket of fish fillets breaded
Federated Clubs as a fundraiser, in a special breading mix will be served
you and your kids are invited to up with fries and slaw at a “family price”
come and try your hand at one of throughout the show.
the state’s best trout ponds. It only
costs $5 to give it a try.
ARCHERY RANGE
VIRTUAL FISHING Presented by
Michigan Bow Hunters
SIMULATOR
Presented by This is a great activity intended
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salmon takes that lure like a freight hand to give the proper instruction
train and your job is to land that fish. to get your kids involved in this great
Top scores for the weekend will win Sport!
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ICE SAFETY
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in the midst extremely cold weather, the angler is • Custom Built8’totoYour
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when Mother Nature de- in. Many quads today are
cides to cooperate. A good 4-strokes and can be ex-
old Michigan winter can tremely hard to start in the
provide some great access cold. They turn into a big
to anglers who don’t have block of ice. I’ve known
a boat for summer fishing, many that won’t even start
but there are some sub- with the pull start. The
stantial cautions to advise cold on big lakes is just
new and seasoned anglers poison to machines sitting
as our season unfolds. As out for several hours.
a 40 year ice angler,
I’ve witnessed many By Mark Sak Some other safety
gear that is extremely
catastrophes, near important is lifesav-
misses and unplanned problems ing tools. Ice picks to pull one’s self
on the ice. Here are some things to back on the ice after falling through
think about. are cheap, and could be the differ-
With all the new ice fishing pag- ence between living and dying. A
es popping up on line, I’ve noticed a rope with a throw cushion tied on
lot of anglers mentioning how they the end could also save a life and is
are new to the game and would like easy to haul. Extra heat sources are
a few spots to try on big water. That extremely important. The rule of
sends shivers down my spine. Under thumb is take enough to get through Poly Furniture and
no circumstances should anyone to the next morning. Also don’t
strike out on a large body of water forget extra charging sources for the
cell phone. There are dozens of very
Campfire Supplies and Rings
just because they want to give it a
go. Ice angling on big water car- reasonable portable chargers on the
ries a great deal of risk. Seasoned market that will provide up to three
anglers can find trouble quickly and full charges. Also consider taking
they fish these waters on a regular a portable marine radio. The emer- Relax In Style!
basis. gency channel will allow the user to
My answer to these folks would communicate with the coast guard if
not be to forget about ice fishing, the cell phone gets wet.
but rather line up a good guide for A life jacket is also a very smart
your first few times out. They are thing to take. There are also many
cheap when it comes to the informa- new cold weather suits made for ice
tion new angler’s will learn. Some fishing that float. Another life saver.
charge only $150 per man. That is I know several frequent ice anglers
so well worth the price of knowl- now utilizing the Nebulus EFDs. A
Nebulus is basically a floating raft
Standard Features
STANDARD FEATURES
edge and location. Guides also know • Fully Insulated
the ice better than most, and how the that when the handle is pulled auto- ••Carpeted Floor
Fully Insulated • Silent Shadow Window Systems
weather and wind affects the ice. matically inflates. There are models
••Rodent Proof
Carpeted Floor Floor • Peaked Roof
Cracks on all lakes provide the that attach to a person or larger ones
biggest hazard anglers face as slush that attach to machines. They range ••All-Aluminum Exterior• Upper And Lower Vents
Rodent Proof Floor
forms in the water between ice in price from $300 to $600. A really ••Silent ShadowExterior
All-Aluminum Window• Upper
SystemsInterior Shelf
shelves then snow blows over all of great idea for big water ice anglers. • Peaked Roof
it, making the open water invisible Remember never go out on the • Upper And Lower Vents
to folks traversing the ice. I can’t big water alone. In ice fishing there • Upper Interior Shelf
tell you how many times I’ve rolled is always safety and strength in
up on a quad upside down in the numbers. Put together a nice safety 1205 N. SR 5, Shipshewana
water and the operator experiencing kit for both personal safety and that
hypothermia while fretting about of your machine. Try to help others 260-768-7511
how to get the quad out. who are stranded even if it means -Open-
Another thing that sends the just calling 911 or calling a salvage - Open - • 8-5
Mon-Fri
caution flag up is being unprepared. company. Never let an angler who
Anglers are taking old quads or has went in the water talk you out Mon-Fri • 8-5Sat
Sat• •8-3:30
8-3:30
snow machines out on the ice and of taking him or her in. With some
the machines are not up to the task. solid safety planning it could be one
Dead batteries are the biggest issue. of the best ice seasons in years. I’ll
Unless that machine has an oper- see you on the ice.n 1205 N. SR 5, Shipshewana • 260-768-7511
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 49
Cover Story...By Kenny Darwin
GOOSE
HOT ZONE
T
he long undulating giant Canada geese falling smack
flock of giant Canada onto frozen ground and my open-
geese floated directly ing day late goose season was off
toward our decoys to a thrilling start.
as I gave them a few Soon another flock appeared Winter goose hunting can provide fast-paced shooting fun guaran-
confidence calls and on the horizon and I laid flat, gun teed to get your hear t pumping and body toasty on a cold snowy
slid my finger to the safety on across my chest and finger on the day. Most hunters use layout blinds surrounded by decoys in the
my 3 inch Winchester SX3. I let safety. This group was different, middle of large fields. If you plan on lying in the snow get a snow
several fly directly overhead so not as many, maybe a dozen birds camo throw-over outfit and use heavy ice fishing boots, warm wool
my hunting partners would have but they were absolutely huge. gloves, stocking hat and don’t forget a face mask. Author photos
easy shooting and when I sat up, Giants! I yelled to my pals as the
huge Canada goose pushing the harvest giant Canada geese, some
shouldered the gun, I had at least flock cupped and shotguns roared.
scales near 15 pounds. They are weighing over 15 pounds.
20 birds in my face. A loud thud of There’s nothing like picking up a
impressive birds but the secret to The story about giant Canada
successful hunting often hinges on geese goes back to days of old
whether or not you are in the hot when a few were transplanted in
zone. southern Michigan. Now you can
In order to have hot winter find huge geese in just about every
gunning you need to start scouting county in southern Michigan be-
now to locate where local flocks cause the population has boomed
are roosting and identify grain because of the habitat improve-
fields they are visiting. Winter ment. It seems modern man needs
Canada geese often roost on a viewing pond and secluded
area rivers and streams offering islands nestled around condos and
good water flow and waterways apartment complexes. Geese are
that remain open during freezing attracted to the water and islands
weather. Often geese sit on ice are a natural for nesting. Soon as
jams or shelf ice to avoid burning goslings are born they can begin
up calories swimming. If we get a munching on the plush green grass
winter thaw and local ponds, lakes that is regularly fertilized around
and marshes become ice free you inner city goose ponds.
can count on new arrivals from the I’ve been chasing giants for
south and the number of birds in years in central Michigan and
southern Michigan can double in a manage to harvest several yearly.
few short days. Giants are huge Canada geese
The trick to late action hinges and I’ve handled birds approach-
on how well you scout and locate ing 20 pounds. While most geese
goose honey holes. Most goose head south when snow flies, the
hunters locate stubble corn fields giant variety will stick around and
that birds are visiting. Others sometimes the last birds to migrate
resort to hunting waterways where are huge geese that can withstand
birds frequent like the Kalama- howling winds, deep snow and
zoo River, Grand River below the freezing temperatures. Find them
Grand Ledge Dam, Muskegon in winter and you will be treated to
River and any waterway that holds a wonderful spectacle when these
birds. B-52 size honkers set wings and
I was pleased to find a stubble fly in your face.
corn field not far from the Ka- OK you’ve done your scout-
lamazoo River and on opener we ing and have permission on a field
had around 400 geese come to our birds are using. Now, do you know
decoy spread. The shooting was sneaky hunting tricks to bring ’em
fabulous and everyone limited. kissin’ close? If not listen up.
Author proudly displays Giant Canada geese taken during Michi- Most importantly we didn’t just Begin by setting decoys ex-
gan’s late season. get some birds, we managed to actly where you located birds the
50 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
night before. Remember, you want
to be in the hot zone not just set up
somewhere in a huge field. Placing
decoys in the exact location birds
are visiting guarantees success. If
fresh snow fell overnight rough
up the field to make it look like a
huge flock has been feeding where
your decoys are set. One of my
deadliest tricks is to spin the tires
on my old black ford van filled
with decoys and do donuts to
expose dirt.
Next place decoys near the
exposed soil. Not just any decoys
but you need to match your decoys
to the season. Here’s why.
Winter geese tend to pull up Late season geese tend to travel in large V-shaped formations rather than small family groups. When
their feet and tuck them in fluffy, you are in the hot zone they glide into easy range and shooting can be somewhat hectic with multiple
warm down feathers found on their guns booming, birds dropping and adult geese wildly honking.
belly. They seldom stand erect
unless spooked or on guard for because you can wear snow camo any direction. kill zone before you go nuts.
predators. Therefore it is a wise from head to toe and your human Rookie goose hunters make the Goose hunters absolutely hate
idea to leave the full body decoys outline is concealed by the white common mistake of moving when the deep throated groan or grunt an
at home and replace them with background. birds are close. I’ve seen goose adult bird gives to warn the flock.
shells. A few full bodies are OK Most modern hunters rely on hunting veterans unconsciously The sound resembles the word NO
but keep away from sentinel or the comfort and protection that fidget with their gloves or gun and often is made several times,
alert models with their head high modern layout blinds provide. when they get excited. Smart birds no, no, no as the entire flock fades
in the air. Try to use semi-resting Some even use heaters to keep pick up on the movement, sound out of range. If this happens get up
full body decoys and surround extra warm when cold winter the alarm and flare off at light- and check your entire spread. Are
them with shells that best mimic winds send most hunters running ning speed. Part of the problem any decoys tipped on their nose or
geese lying on their bellies in the for the heated truck. Layout blinds is incoming flocks of geese give lying on their side? Are any green
snow. completely hide you from the wary you the impression that they are coffee thermoses or boxes of shells
If the weather is mild, wind eyes of incoming geese and you fooled, coming in on a string as in the open? Try to identify what
calm you can spread the decoys in can stay snug as a bug and wait they cup wings and slowly glide spooked the flock; don’t just lay
a J, X or L pattern with the mass until birds are in easy gun range in your direction like they are on there because chances are the next
of feeding decoys in the center and before you jump out and begin a slow escalator. Rookie hunters flock will avoid you because they
trailing decoys facing the main firing. tend to think the shooting is about also see something out of place.
mass. If the wind starts howling, Camo patterns vary for blinds to be easy and they move. Wise Often you need to better conceal
place all decoys facing into the but Farmland Corn Belt is a great old birds are constantly scrutiniz- fellow hunters and remind them
wind and if conditions are brutal pattern along with Wheatfield ing the decoy spread and the closer emphatically to not move.
tighten the spread to best mimic a camo. During winter you can add they get the more chance they pick The secret to goose hunting
flock of winter geese in survival more camouflage by stacking out your red face, see you move success always boils down to
mode. snow around your blind so it does your fingers on the call or reposi- details. You gotta find them. You
Savvy goose slayers know not stick out like a brown blob tion the gun in preparation for the gotta be set up where they want to
that success often hinges on one on a snowy field. Savvy hunt- shot. BUSTED! land and your decoys and camou-
important variable, the hide. Smart ers use blinds draped in Snow Now the afterburners kick into flaged hide must be perfect. Sure
winter geese have been through cover camo. Keep in mind success full speed escape and geese quick- with early season honkers you can
the rigors of Michigan’s hunting hinges on how well you conceal ly reverse their massive cupped hide your human outline in green
season. Flocks are commanded by your layout blind. wings and immediately push air to grass or other foliage, not so come
adult birds that have eyesight like One problem I have with escape by flopping frantically and winter. Early season you can just
an eagle and they are constantly on layout blinds is I’m too old and dash downwind out of range. The toss out any decoy and get their
the lookout for predators or hunt- stiff to have clear shooting in transformation from relaxed to attention but winter birds require
ers dressed in camo. every direction when I sit up in a frightened happens shockingly fast decoys that are set up to look like
If adult birds see you, regard- layout blind. I’m from old school and they’re out of range. live birds.
less how large your spread is or and prefer to wear complete camo The trick is to control your When it all comes together and
how good you are at calling, they clothing, face mask, white boots, emotions when giant birds are you totally fool wary wild Canada
give an alarm grunt and the entire white camo gloves and even coming at you, don’t move, al- geese the results can be impres-
flock will fade out of shooting my fancy shotgun is painted to low them to get close as possible sive. Few thrills in wild bird hunt-
range, circle and eventually fly match snow. The trick is to lie on before announcing “FIRE!” and ing compare with the loud throb-
away. Fooling the eyesight of a your back snuggled next to some jumping up to shoot. bing of huge Canada goose wings
large adult Canada honker is a decoys to hide your outline. Hold Never command fellow hunt- as they slip into easy gunning
major challenge especially after your shotgun across your chest and ers to shoot just because lead birds range. When you and your bud-
they have been shot at, seen hunt- face to further hide your presence. from a flock are inside 40 yards. dies jump into action your heart is
ers pop up from camo blinds and When birds come into range I can The idea is to allow everyone great pounding, big guns are blazing and
had their tail feathers dusted with sit up, jump up, get on my knees, shooting and this is accomplished you are caught up in the excite-
hot lead. Snow can be a blessing you name it and shoot with ease in by letting as many geese into the ment of the magical hot zone.n
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 51
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52 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
everyone in the world of college
basketball. He brought me along to
invitation-only parties and special
bia’s athletic program, compliments
of Barry; two from “Fin Addicts,”
a Michigan bass fishing club my
Rockstar Fishing!
events. Treated me to “bump-ins” nephew Steve Smith gave me; and Rock guitarist TKO Detroit travels around Michigan
with famous coaches. Another thing the one from my brother-in-law Jim- promoting the state and its fishing industry while having
he knew was where some of the side mer celebrating the 30th anniversary fun with friends. A made in Michigan rock soundtrack.
action was taking place. We got into of Bruce Springsteen’s album Born
a commercial hall where the Horner to Run in 2005. Please go to
Flooring Company from Dollar Bay, Alas, after about 16 years, my https://www.facebook.com/michiganrocksthebest/
Michigan, was handing out hand- Indianapolis shirt, like others before to subscribe to youtube and like Rockstar Fishing!
sized samples of the flooring it pro- it, arrived at the mouth of the west
duced for the tournament’s basketball branch of Phase II and started show- Detroit musicians come together for Music,
courts. In one hotel room I purchased ing signs of fatigue: fraying collar, fishing, travel, comedy and PURE MICHIGAN
734-475-9146
Starting April 1, 2018, the muskellunge harvest tag no longer will be
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time must register their fish with the DNR. For more information, visit
michigan.gov/muskie. www.trophyspecialists.com
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 53
14-year-old called him ‘Broadhead’
heard Lily’s story through same time!”
chance. A friend of mine, I asked Lily if this monster buck
Bud Thomas, stopped was a night feeder and what were
into Young’s Oldsmobile/ her expectations of getting even one
Cadillac dealership in shot at him.
Owosso and the salesman “She quickly replied; we re-
during their conversation mentioned ally never expected to see him. Dad
they had their first buck hunted all bow season and
pole deer hunting contest never saw him once but we
during the past deer season. knew where he lived and
He went on showing Bud he never went too close to
photos of a monster buck, that area of the property.
dwarfing others on display Our plan was to sit in our
and stating that a 14-year- blind and wait for at least a
old young lady had taken decent-sized buck to show
him down. up. Dad doesn’t like to
Almost imme- shoot young deer
diately, Bud called
me asking if I By Betty Sodders and wants them
to grow up and
was interested in writing the story. get old. He says we can’t shoot big
He tracked down a phone number bucks if we’re always shoot young
and talked to Lily’s Dad, Bob Kur- ones.
rle (pronounced Curley) who was I don’t feel comfortable hunting
excited for the possibility that his in a blind by myself yet so Dad was
daughter would be in Woods-N- with me opening day. I also hunt
Water News, a publication that has with my Grandpa and really enjoy
graced their coffee table over many, spending time with him. Dad told
many years. me if a buck does come out to take Four teen-year-old Lily Kurrle of Owosso pictured with her mammoth 10-point.
My next step was to meet Lily my time, focus, put the crosshairs
by phone. I was impressed. I lis- behind his front shoulder and slowly when we heard a snort-wheeze. I thought. It proved to be 125 yards to
tened to a humble teenager who was squeeze the trigger.” slowly looked over to see what it the tree he stood by. I have only ever
extremely knowledgeable about deer Now it was my place to ask a was. There was a smaller buck with shot my gun at 100 yards and we
and deer hunting that I could barely question; “Lily, what was your reac- a crooked horn that we have seen both were somewhat worried and
wait to present this story to the read- tion when this monster buck actu- for several years, a couple does and our hearts sank as well.
ers of Woods-N-Water News. I also ally came into view? fawns and ‘Broadhead’ was sneak- We got our stuff together and got
learned that along the way, this story “We knew he was a real good ing down the fencerow. We think he out of the blind to go look for blood
took on an unusual twist. And so... buck and a shooter but until we snorted at the small buck and was and when we got to the tree he had
her interview began: found him we did not know that he telling him to back off. been by, there wasn’t anything we
“This was not my first year was our 10-point. Everything hap- I told Dad, it’s a buck and I could find. Then my Dad told me to
hunting. I have been going out with pened so fast and we thought it was grabbed my gun and shooting turn around and check the tree out.
my Dad since I was five, but I didn’t probably a nice 7 or 8 point that we sticks. I was blocking Dad’s view I looked and here was blood prob-
start carrying my own gun until I saw earlier in the morning.” of ‘Broadhead’ and he could only ably six feet up the tree where he
was 11. I have only hunted deer so Lily was using a Marlin .44 mag see the crooked horn buck so Dad had turned around at. We knew then
far but I am practicing for different lever-action. She added that she has told me he was too small and not to that we had him, we just had to find
animals in the future. used that gun for two seasons and shoot. I said “No he’s not Dad, he’s where he went.
Pre-hunting preparation was before that she handled a muzzle- a giant!” Dad said; let’s just walk up the
most important to both my Dad and loader but had never shot a deer When my Dad leaned forward hill instead of following the blood;
I. We wash our clothes in scent-free with that gun. and could see him, he told me to get if he is not laying in the cut beans
soap and take a scent-free shower I asked this young lady to de- on him, but I already was. Dad put and he made it to the woods we’ll
before going out afield. I shot my scribe in depth how this hunt played my ear muffs on me and asked if I go back and follow the blood trail.”
first two deer with my gun so I am out from the moment the big buck was ready. I said, yes, he grunted We still didn’t know what he
very comfortable with it but I still came into range until she had him and the buck stopped and looked was and thought he was a 7 or 8
get in plenty of target practice prior down and found: our way and that is when I shot. He point, so we started walking. We
to the hunt. “We had four does and three jumped and turned and ran up the only went about 40 yards up the hill
Throughout the season, my Dad fawns come into our field about hill away from us. and Dad said, “There he is Lily!”
checked his field cams almost every 50 yards from us and they got Dad took my gun and set it off And then he added, “oh my that’s
week when he was done hunting spooked and ran up the hill. My to the side of the blind to get it out the big 10-point Lily!
and once he thought it would be a Dad and I were talking about taking of the way. We were both shaking I added, “NO WAY!”
good time to go mess with them. a nap because it was supposed to pretty good. When we checked the I named him ‘Broadhead.’
First time we saw him on camera start raining and it was about five range-finder and learned how far I was so happy I wanted to run
we were excited and shocked at the minutes after the does had run off the shot was...a little farther than we up to him but I didn’t know what
54 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
kind of shot I had made on him so So over and above the article on She has been a youth instructor for
we took it slow. He only went about Lily taking down this trophy buck, the last couple of years helping the
60 yards or so after I shot him. ‘Broadhead’ will also be pictured in younger kids learn safety, first and
When we got up to him my Dad and another magazine article holding a foremost, and work on developing
I were high-fiving each other then dozen or so photos of mane deer. their skills. She spends every Satur-
we hugged and started crying right Lily continued the conversation. day during the league from 8 a.m. to
in the bean field that is probably “My Dad took ‘Broadhead’ to 4 p.m. at the club helping out.
the best memory ever! My shot was Wildlife Reflections Taxidermy in I would also like to mention that
pretty good...I hit him a little far Dewitt and taxidermist Mark Esch on our property we practice APRs
back but he wasn’t totally broadside is going to mount him for us. He and never harvest young deer. Hav-
to us so I got the back of one lung, does a really nice job and has great ing the opportunity to see deer of
the top of the heart and the other references on his website. He was this quality would not be possible
lung. Dad says it doesn’t get much really impressed with my buck and otherwise. It takes time, and now
better than that and it was a long said that he loves seeing deer with our efforts are starting to show.
shot too! manes.” I really let Lily answer all of
Dad’s reaction was, “Holy’ fol- I asked, “Where did you take your questions; after all, this is
lowed by some swear words after your Hunter’s Safety Course?” about her. I totally recognize that
that he was crying tears of joy. He “Where does your Dad work?” this will be the highlight of my hunt-
still gets those tears every time he “And who did your folks deal with ing career and it is what deer hunt-
tells the story to anyone who will at Young’s auto dealership regarding ing is all about. I have had conversa-
listen. entering the buck pole contest?” I tions with my friends and this hunt
Dad mostly field-dressed it wanted to afford credits as much as is something special that will never Close-up of the bristly looking mane.
and was teaching me. I did help possible as it makes for good rela- be topped, most likely never even
to skin him and started learning tionships. Lily responded: matched. I have no problem with be your next goal?”
how to butcher the deer with Dad. “Dad works at Triton Industries/ that and I am more than blessed to “Right now I am still enjoying
He always cuts up all of our deer Manitou Pontoons. Justin Naylor have been a part of it. Hunting and Broadhead and can’t wait for him to
himself.” was the guy that measured the deer the outdoors has and always will be get back from the taxidermist. I am
Next I asked Miss Lily as to at the buck pole and it was the first a big part of our lives.” really looking forward to helping
who decided to put the big buck on time Young Olds ever did a buck My last question to this re- the young kids at youth archery. And
the Young’s Oldsmobile/Cadillac pole. markable 14-year-old young lady someday possibly hunting a bigger
dealership’s Buck Pole in Owosso. I I took hunter’s safety course was; “Now that you have taken deer or either hunt elk, black tail,
also heard that ‘Broadhead’ beat out about five years ago at the Shiawas- ‘Broadhead, a huge ‘typical’ racked pronghorn, mule deer or perhaps...
all the other entries and asked her to see County Conservation Club and 10-point buck, what could possibly even a moose!”n
fill me on that score. I also volunteer there for the youth
She replied, “My mom and step- archery league.
mom said that we should take him I love being outdoors doing Southeast Michigan Bowhunters Chapter - SCI
27th Annual
to the Buck Pole. There were about anything whenever I can and I love
9 or 10 nice bucks hanging and
actually I only beat the second place
all animals. We always go rustic
camping every summer and I really
Fund Raiser
buck by one inch.
I was the only ‘Youth Entry.’ It
enjoy being able to spend time go-
ing on hikes or climbing waterfalls Banquet
was a pretty yucky day; raining and and sand dunes. I have a really great & Outfitter’s Party
really windy. For the youth contest family and I am thankful for all of
I won a free shoulder mount. In the them and all of their support.” Saturday, March 24, 2018
adult category I won $500 in cash Lily’s Dad was next on the list Laurel Manor 39000 Schoolcraft Rd., Livonia 48150
and a $500 certificate off a car. as he tells of his daughters many 4:00 p.m. Doors open – Exhibits, Silent Auction & Raffles. Cocktails- 4:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m. - Dinner Live Auction after Dinner
And then I won the first place raffle skills and accomplishments:
which was a really nice ladder stand “I just have to say that this day OVER 800 Attendees SERVED Dinner Open Bar
and I also won another raffle, that was a pretty special and emotional 30+ Outfitter & Exhibitor Booths
being three baseball hats.” day to say the least. I never expected $250,000 Live Auction Silent AuctionS Huge Raffles
My next question was, “I under- for this deer to show up in the day 80+ Hunting Trips & Fishing Charters Wildlife Art
stand you are a freshman at Owosso time, much less when Lily was by Guns & Bows Hunting GEAR TAXIDERMY& More!!!
High, how did your school friends my side. I could not have asked for Dinner: Filet Mignon Boneless Breast of Chicken Potato Vegetable Salad Dessert & More
react to your taking down this mam- anything more and would not trade All proceeds go to further SCI's wildlife conservation, education, humanitarian and governmental affairs
moth 10- point buck?” a second of this experience for any- programs to ensure the future of North America's great wildlife management system and proud hunting
heritage. The Southeast Michigan Bowhunters Chapter of SCI is on guard to assist with funding and
“Some of my friends were re- thing in the world! manpower wherever animal-rights extremists threaten our sport. Your support helps us build a solid
ally proud of me and some of them Lily is an amazing and caring future for sportsmen and wildlife. If you enjoy our sport as much as we do, we welcome you to attend this
gala event and to join Michigan’s most effective organization in protecting your “Right To Hunt”.
thought it was fake and that it was young lady who is also quite hum- Mail Order Form to: Rich DeLisle / SCI-Tickets, 4810 N. Fleming Rd., Fowlerville, MI 48836
my Dad’s deer. When everyone ble. She has been preparing to hunt Email: 3839rich@gmail.com, Phone: (517) 545-4642, Cell (248) 345-1986
finally found out it was for real, they for quite some time before she actu- --------------- 2018 SCI BANQUET Ticket Order Form --------------
couldn’t believe it!” ally carried a weapon into the field. Ticket orders must be received by March 16th for advance ticket pricing!
Now the story takes a strange She got her first bow when she was Please send ______ Fund Raiser Banquet Individual Ticket(s) only $85.00 per person .............. $__________
twist. In talking with Lily’s father, only six-years-old and she shot them Please send ______ Fund Raiser Banquet Reserved Table(s) of Ten $800.00 per table* ........... $__________
Bob, I told him that presently I was ever since. Hopefully, next year will Please send ______ Crown Jewel Raffle Ticket(s) Limited to 100 Tickets $100.00 each ............. $ _________
Table Reservation Name: ________________________________________ TOTAL: $__________
working on a story regarding deer be her year to harvest something Mail to:
with manes...a very rare event in with her archery equipment. Lily Name_____________________________________________
Address___________________________________________
Check Enclosed (payable to: SCI- SE Michigan Bowhunters)
Charge to: __VISA __MC __Discover Exp. Date:_______
which both the buck and doe need to has shot in the youth archery league City__________________________ St____ Zip___________ __|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__
carry a recessive gene (Dating back at the Shiawassee County Conserva- Phone (________)___________________________________
Card No.
to prehistoric times when deer-like tion Club for at least six years and E-mail Address_____________________________________ Signature_____________________________________
animals sported manes) to produce actually shot out of youth program *Table purchasers will be entered into a limited drawing for $250 cash or a Henry .22 rifle!
A few moments
of simple fun
“H
ow many shots do bore of the .40-caliber percussion
you have left?” mountain rifle crafted by Richard
Jim Galiger asked Miller, a Michigan gun maker of
his grandson, fine black powder arms. The young
Jaden Wright. man, a three-time junior champion,
“This and another,” Jaden said picked up the last round lead sphere
as he sat a .40-caliber lead ball on a from the loading block on the bench.
spit-lubed, pillow-ticking At the end of the relay
patch. Galiger remained at the grandfather/grandson
the loading bench, content team retrieved their tar- Barb Hobday, “Captain Mom” of “Team Hobday,” sent a stout load of #8s
to watch Jaden take his gets. Jaden scored a 48; his after the third bird in the special five-bird match that commemorated the
shot. “How many do you granddad’s target sported 100th anniversary of Roy Keeler’s bir th. Wild River tree photos
have left?” Jaden asked. three “9s,” a “10-X” and
“I didn’t lay five balls a fifth suspicious shot that it should be feet up. Yours just ran ship—and his deep passion for
out (before I started load- almost split the large black away,” Jaden chided. the preservation of America’s rich
ing) so I need you to count moustache stamped in the “That was a lot of fun,” Jim muzzleloading heritage.
Galiger said when quizzed about The Keeler Society chose a stan-
By Dennis Neely
’em on my target. open space below
I’m glad they don’t the standing buf- the match by a spectator. “This was dard five-bull buffalo target for the
score this target,” falo. Jaden tried to the ‘Pa’ Keeler memorial match for rifle match, which was open to any
the grandfather said, glancing over sneak a good look. Galiger whisked his 100th birthday. When we turn muzzleloading rifle, pistol, smooth-
his wire-rimmed glasses. the target away. “These weren’t shot these targets in we’ll both get a bore or inline (no scope) with any
“Is yours bad?” for score, remember?” Galiger said special patch. Pa was an old friend metallic sight. The “rules” suggested
“Oh, ya, I’m sure.” with a big grin as he posed with of mine. I first met him in 1979. I two shots fired standing offhand and
“I’m not looking at mine ’til Jaden for a family photo. “Besides, used to primitive camp with him up three shots from any rest position at
I’m done,” Jaden said as he dumped your target’s upside down.” north at ‘Rusty’s Deer Camp.’ He 50 yards. Pa Keeler was known for
a charger of black powder down the “Well, I killed my buffalo, so would’ve got a kick out of seeing his handlebar moustache, so a big,
Jaden shoot.” black moustache was stamped under
1-800-700-2628
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 57
Hot Topics in the Outdoors...
M
tion officers and their county assign- conservationofficers.n
any - but not all - state ments upon completing field train-
forest roads will open to
off-road vehicle traffic,
ing are: Adam Beuthin (Monroe),
Joshua Boudreaux (Marquette), Deer hunters
asked to report
which began at the start Stephen Butzin (Delta), Jeremy
of 2018. Before riding, make sure Cantrell (St. Joseph), Sidney Col-
roads are authorized for ORV use by
hunting activitiy
lins (Montmorency), Jessica Curtis
checking online maps. The Michigan (Lapeer), James Garrett (Oscoda),
Department of Natural Resources Jennifer Hanson (Gogebic), Micah
forest roads maps are found at www. Hintze (Cass), Nicholas Ingersoll Now that many deer hunters
michigan.gov/forestroads. Final maps (Monroe), Charles Jones (Kalkaska), have finished their deer hunting
will be online by Dec. 31. Jonathan Kamps (Genesee), Keven for this year, the Department of
“Due to frozen ground condi- Luther (Wayne), Amanda McCurdy Natural Resources invites these
tions, closed roads are not all marked
(Leelanau), Kyle McQueer (St. hunters to report their deer
yet,” said Deb Begalle, DNR Forest hunting activity online. The in-
Resources Division chief. “Some Joseph), Zachary Painter (Gogebic),
Tyler Sabuda (Iosco), Cody Smith formation that you provide will
roads remain closed to balance mo- help us to evaluate hunter suc-
torized recreational access with the (Baraga), Katie Stawara (Shiawas-
see), Justin Vinson (Luce), Nicholas cess and total harvest. Report
need to protect our resources.” roads is complete; inventory on forest your deer hunting activity.
Approximately 6,300 miles of roads in the rest of the state will be Wellman (Branch), Danielle Zubek
(Oakland). If you still plan to hunt deer
roads in the state forest system in the completed by Dec. 31, 2018. during the late seasons, please
northern Lower Peninsula will open Examples of areas that will In addition to general law
do not report until after you are
to ORVs. About 1,200 miles of roads remain closed to ORV traffic include enforcement training, recruits must done hunting for the entire year.
will remain closed. the Pigeon River Country State learn skills unique to a conserva- Remember, it's important for all
Opening the roads to ORV use is Forest, Jordan Valley, Mason Tract, tion officer’s duties, such as fish and deer hunters to participate, even
authorized by Public Act 288, signed Deward Tract, and Sand Lakes Quiet game identification. They also were if they do not hunt or harvest a
by Gov. Rick Snyder in September Area, all of which emphasize quiet trained in areas including precision deer.
2016. Besides opening roads, the recreation. Other roads will remain driving, self-defense tactics, water Survey results will be
statute required the DNR to inventory closed to reduce conflict with non- safety, legal training, outdoor sur- posted on our website as soon
and map all state forest roads. An in- motorized uses and protect natural vival, firearms, handling child abuse as they are available.
ventory of northern Lower Peninsula resources.n and neglect cases, securing crime
58 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
Hot Topics in the Outdoors...My Thoughts, My Views...
T
he hunt began pleas- intently after he was out of sight, I
antly on a still, early heard him crashing away in flight.
November morning The sounds curved left, then silence,
as I pulled my re- then more crashing. The arrow was
curve bow up to my still in him and I could hear it clack-
treestand. A light rain ing on brush as he ran. I listened
the night before had left the woods until the sounds faded away in the
wet and quiet. With the rut distance. I remember think-
starting and the bucks on ing that he was heading
the move I had a feeling for where I had parked my
that something good could truck.
happen. I felt sick. I was dis-
As daylight began appointed in myself for
to light up the world, a not making a better shot.
movement out in the high “Should have tried to stop The author’s hopes soared at the sight of a small drop of blood on a leaf.
swamp grass caught my him with a grunt. Should
attention. Soon, a have waited until but, truth is, the only way to learn to Coming out on a clearing, I
track deer is to track them, and find remembered that his noisy flight
buck was quickly
walking directly By Darryl Quidort he passed for a
better shot angle. them, and help others find them. Ex- had gone silent for a few seconds,
downwind and coming right at me. Should have…should have… too perience counts. In the past, I have probably as he ran across this clear-
It wasn’t a big trophy rack, just a de- late now.” I thought. Like a single taken some satisfaction in my track- ing. Remembering that the sound
cent buck like most of us traditional frame pulled from a fast moving ing ability. Several “hard to track” seemed to curve to the left, I went
bowhunters hunt for and are satis- video, I had a mental snapshot of deer have been found for myself where my hearing directed me and
fied with when we are successful. the arrow in the buck just before he and others by diligent tracking. I’ve found a deer trail where intuition
Without stopping, or even slowing burst into flight. It looked a little far- even joked that, “When you shoot as told me he likely hit the brush again.
down, he cruised by right under my ther back than I wanted and without badly as I do, you’re gonna need to Slowly following that trail, crawling
stand. Things were happening too much penetration. develop some tracking skills.” Now under brush, and intently search-
fast! I drew, anchored, and shot as In bowhunting, the reality is that I was going to need those skills. ing for a freshly turned up leaf, a
he glided under me. it’s normal for a deer to run off after Knowing that the deer had run displaced stick, or any clue or sign
At the shot, the buck crashed being shot with an arrow. Unless a long distance and wasn’t lying of his passing, I went in the direc-
straight ahead. I had to turn around you actually see the deer go down, nearby, I quietly climbed down to tion I thought I had heard him run
to look on the opposite side of the you will have to follow its trail to look things over. What I found was, more than three hours before. I tried
tree to see him as he quickly disap- recover it. Books have been writ- nothing. It was hard to even find to think like the deer. He wasn’t
peared into thick brush. Listening ten on how to track and trail game where he left the edge of the swamp crashing through the brush on an
grass, and since he went behind my aimless death run. He was follow-
tree, I didn’t even know exactly ing deer trails and natural paths of
where he entered the thick brush. I least resistance, heading north and
combed the whole area, going down west. Then, a pin point of blood on
every faint deer trail and every a leaf! I had to inspect it closely to
natural avenue I thought he might be sure. Yes, it was blood and I was
have taken. I back tracked, climbed still on his trail. I pushed on with
the tree to look again, and even tried new determination. But, that was the
it on hands and knees. Still nothing. last blood.
I couldn’t find a single sign of his This whole area had been logged
trail. Doubt began to creep into my a few years before and had grown
mind. up in very thick little aspen trees
I remembered seeing the buck eight to ten feet tall with a heavy
bound over something way out in ground cover of dead, brown col-
the thick stuff. After climbing to my ored goldenrod. I couldn’t see very
stand again, I got a mental direc- far and couldn’t even walk through
tion to search. An hour later I found much of it. Zig-zagging slowly, I
a single drop of blood about 1/8 quietly grid searched the whole area
inch in diameter. My hopes soared! as best I could. Coming out to the
This confirmed that I was on the edge of the thick woods, I looked up
buck’s trail. The “something” he had to see my truck parked a short dis-
bounded over was a fallen tree and tance away. After hours of intently
the small drop of blood was on an searching, I felt defeated. “Prob-
oak leaf near fresh scuff marks in ably a bad shot and a lost deer,”
the wet leaves. From there I fol- I thought. I was physically and
lowed faint scuff marks down the mentally exhausted. At that point I
deer trail until they faded out. Every almost gave up the trailing job. I had
side trail and every place he might taken only three or four steps toward
have turned off was thoroughly the truck when I was shocked to see
checked, without finding another
Most impor tantly. Never give up! Author photos clue. On giving up or not page 61
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 59
My Thoughts, My Views, My Opinion...
TB, CWD, EHD: from page 60 lower the herd density seriously. Go
into these areas prior to deer season
survive and number into dozens,
release them. This is not a five year
and trap the oldest bucks but after a program it may last a hundred years
deer herd increases the presence of the state biologists find the presence few years of protecting all yearling for complete success.
TB immunity, thus less TB. of CWD, set off the alarm, put a few bucks. The antler standard should In Michigan where the CWD
You think maybe some of our rules in place to stop the transfer of be to protect 100 percent of yearling is just starting why not introduce a
deer management leaders know the live deer from any where, only meat bucks and that standard will protect different antler restriction where all
above. I hope so! and skinned heads from harvested at least 40 percent of the 2-1/2 year bucks taken need to be 8 points or
CWD is a more serious and deer from out state, lower the deer old bucks. Publish material describ- more, think Montcalm County as the
vicious subject. No deer that have herd density and shoot all bucks but ing what to look for prior to taking possible research area. Nothing ven-
contacted CWD have survived so not much else. The result for all but that buck that is hopefully 3-1/2 tured, nothing gained. I have gotten
far. So, why are our expert deer very few is the same, the incidence years old or older. These captured to know a few our MDNR Wildlife
scientists and biologists still trying of CWD just keeps on rising. This is bucks are then checked for CWD. If Biologists, there isn’t a phony in the
to control it the same way as forty unacceptable. There has to be more they have CWD give them their last bunch, now show us your moxie! If
years ago. Will you please stop beat- we can do. meal. If they are CWD free, infect you do not like the above approach,
ing your head against the wall? In heavy invested areas why not them with CWD. We are looking show us yours.
We mentioned in some seri- try something that reflects what the for the few bucks immune to CWD. Ed Spinazzola is an associate of
ous areas of CWD infection, up to above deer club did but do it in an They are there; also find a few older Tony LaPratt’s land Management
50 percent of the bucks are CWD entire county or better yet a group of immune does. Introduce a few does for more information call 586-784-
infected and it is not getting any counties. For hunters, they take no to a lucky buck. When the offspring 8090 or visit; www.deerattractiom.
better. The common experience is bucks less the 3-1/2 years old, yes, which are injected with CWD com or www.tonysulm.comn
Enjoy
Upland Bird Hunting
August 15—April 30
No Hunting
License
Required!
Michigan Association of
Gamebird Breeders & Hunting Preserves
For information & listing of our preserves near you go to:
www.michiganhuntingpreserves.com
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 61
TRAIL CAM/OUTDOOR PHOTOS
Join us in sharing interesting and sometimes rare
trail cam and/or outdoor photos with our readers.
Email your photos to: wnw@pageone-inc.com
O
n an early summer
day, in front of a
white gazebo over-
looking Lake Inde-
pendence, spirited
women who had
taken on the challenge of improving
their outdoor skills assembled on the
lawn for a group photograph.
These pink-shirted ladies, some
who were here for the first time, and
others who had returned on several
occasions, gathered for the picture The June 2017 par ticipants pose for a photo to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Becoming an Out-
to commemorate the 20th anniver- doors Woman program in Upper Michigan. The women wore pink T-shir ts in 2017 as they did the first year of
sary of the Becoming an Outdoors the Upper Michigan program in 1998. MDNR photos
Woman program in the Upper and instructor since 1997, said that meetings in Wisconsin and took women served on the initial com-
Peninsula. in life, everything gets better when part in the initial presentation of mittee, and together, we hosted the
Each year, women from across you get outside. the BOW program as designed at program at Clear Lake in 1998,
the Upper Great Lakes region and “BOW is the chance to share Stevens Point. which involved 63 participants, the
elsewhere gather at the Bay Cliff that philosophy with women of all “He came back to Michigan largest program ever in Michigan.”
Health Camp in Marquette County ages, backgrounds and experiences,” committed to getting the program Like the instructors, committee
for a summer weekend BOW pro- she said. “When we first gather on going here as well, and selected two members are volunteers. The BOW
gram in June and a winter program Friday for a BOW weekend, I tell women in the DNR Law Enforce- program has always been financially
in February. newcomers, ‘Your life will change ment Division – Mary Schurser and self-sustaining, a key ingredient in
The program is coordinated in ways you never thought possible.’ Lynn Marla – to begin the process,” its success and longevity.
through the Michigan Department of On Sunday, when we say good-byes, Feldhauser said. “Initially, some Feldhauser said some smaller
Natural Resources. those newcomers confess that learn- smaller programs aimed at specific programs continued to be held in the
During these weekends, vol- ing to shoot a gun, paddle a kayak or sports, such as hunting and shooting Lower Peninsula, but the strength
unteer instructors offer classes on even back up a trailer was more than events, were held at various loca- gained from the committee structure
a wide range of activities ranging just the skill, it was the confidence tions in Lower Michigan.” in the U.P. allowed that program to
from shooting firearms, fishing to tackle the next new challenge.” Feldhauser said that within a grow and thrive.
and cross-country skiing to paddle The BOW concept originated year, a larger, more broadly scoped “Eventually, the programs
boarding, winter camping, kayaking with Christine Thomas at the Uni- BOW event was held at the DNR’s ceased being held in the Lower Pen-
and archery. versity of Wisconsin, Stevens Point Ralph A. MacMullen Conference insula, and the coordinator position
The classes are provided in in 1991. Center near Roscommon, drawing for the program, based in Lansing,
a supportive environment where “That state’s DNR was experi- about 40 participants. Classes were was terminated,” Feldhauser said.
students are encouraged, inspired encing a notable decline in the num- offered in many areas, including “However, the U.P. program car-
and applauded for their efforts to try ber of women buying hunting and fishing, canoeing, shooting, hiking ried on, soon adding a winter BOW
new activities. fishing licenses, so the agency com- and others. program.”
“It’s been amazing to see the missioned the university system to “I had attended training at That winter program was first
growth in the women who have explore methods to get more women Michigan State University run by offered in 2002 in Iron County at
attended our program,” said Sandy involved in outdoor activities,” said the original designers of the pro- the Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp,
Kivela, an instructor and member of Ann (Wilson) Feldhauser, a former gram from Wisconsin. I then helped located outside of Crystal Falls.
the program’s organizing committee. Michigan DNR spokeswoman in- with the RAM Center program to “We quickly outgrew that facil-
“Some have started as participants strumental in establishing the BOW gain firsthand experience,” Feld- ity and moved to Bay Cliff Health
and have become instructors. Some program in the Upper Peninsula. hauser said. “When I returned to Camp,” said Sharon Pitz, one of
have made life-long friendships.” Then Michigan DNR Director Marquette, Lynn Marla, who was Feldhauser’s original BOW com-
Frida Waara, a BOW participant Rollie Harmes attended a series of the BOW coordinator at that time, mittee members, who has served as
suggested that a program be held the BOW coordinator since Feld-
in the Upper Peninsula. Our first hauser’s retirement from the DNR
sponsor 20 years ago was the Sagola in 2008.
Sportsman’s Club, where we hosted “We now also offer numerous
Pistol about 50 women for a weekend of specialized Beyond BOW events,
shooting is activities.” such as kayaking for moms and
a popular After some review and revision, daughters, hiking in the Pictured
class at BOW it was decided to hold a bigger pro- Rocks and the Porcupine Mountains,
programs gram at the Clear Lake Education and steelhead fishing on the Two-
Center in Schoolcraft County. Hearted River, among others,” Pitz
“To pull off a large-scale pro- said. “We also had a couple Beyond
gram, I developed a BOW commit- BOW events held downstate in the
tee comprised of Upper Peninsula last year.
women who all were active in the “These successful events have
outdoors and had confident leader- been taken on by our own DNR
ship skills,” Feldhauser said. “Ten Wildlife Division employees, who
64 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
have gained an interest in our pro-
gram and want to help women learn
skills in the outdoors.”
Pitz said she hopes to schedule
more Beyond BOW sessions in the
Lower Peninsula in the future.
Feldhauser said the original
concept for the program, which
has continued, called for a third of
the activities to be hunting-related,
another third fishing-related and the
remaining classes a mixture of other
pursuits.
The Marquette County chapter
of U.P. Whitetails is one example
of groups that contributed start-up
money for the program or funded
some scholarships for BOW over
the past two decades.
Monica Weis, who helps teach The first Upper Michigan Becoming an Outdoors Woman committee at the Clear Lake Education Center in School-
dog sledding, called the BOW pro- craft County in 1998. Back row, from left: Jane Gordon, Margie Burns, Penny Bacon; center row: Frida Waara,
gram “magical.” Ann (Wilson) Feldhauser, Pam Henricksen, Sharon Pitz, Sue Webster; front row: Bonnie Ryberg
“Magical in watching the friends too,” she said. “The instruc- made with women from far and committee are “amazing.”
women gain confidence in what tors are easy to love and super fun. wide are treasured.” “Sharon (Pitz) and the ladies on
they are learning,” Weis said. “The They make sure everyone has the The BOW program is now the committee care so much about
smiles, laughter and friendship that best experience that they possibly offered in several states beyond the program and creating opportuni-
we develop as the weekend moves can. It’s all about support. Michigan, including Iowa, Okla- ties for women to learn not only a
along is amazing.” “The amount of support that homa, Arkansas, Minnesota, Illinois new skill, but make connections –
Sue Petschke, a committee you can receive from a tight-knit and Wisconsin. connections that are priceless,” Zel-
member who teaches snowshoeing, group of women is amazing. You Margaret Mary Gerhard of lar said. “The passion and expertise
said she loves it when participants learn things that you have never Fence, Wisconsin has attended this committee and the instructors
tell her they are going to go back even dreamed that you would ever Michigan BOW events. She said bring to this program is inspiring,
home and snowshoe. do in your life, and the best part BOW weekends are highlights on and quite frankly, I feel blessed to
“The enjoyment you get snow- about that is being able to teach her annual calendar. be a part of it.”
shoeing with friends and family those things to your family when “I am always impressed with Zellar’s first direct involvement
is priceless,” Petschke said. “No you get back home. Bay Cliff is a the women’s enthusiasm, courage with the BOW program came during
cellphone service wanted here.” home away from home. You go to and diligence in the various classes. the February sessions in 2016.
More than 3,000 women have this program with all of your trou- I learn so much from them,” she “Months earlier I had met with
taken part in the U.P. BOW pro- bles from life and you leave feeling said. “Every woman has a story, Sharon to get more acquainted with
grams, with the summer program refreshed and ready to succeed in all and the stories are amazing. BOW the program. After meeting the
typically drawing about 100 people, that you do.” enriches my life. It is a gift to me. I committee and attending the winter
and roughly 75 enrolling in the win- Bernadette Harkness of Mid- treasure the friendships I have made workshop, it was clear we were go-
ter session. land said she didn’t grow up doing there. I am so very grateful.” ing to make a good team – a diverse
“It has been a lot of work, but outdoor things and never imagined Rosemary Plourde of Marquette group of women with like-minded
what an honor and privilege to have she would be able to ice fish, drive said all women, no matter their skill goals,” Zellar said. “From there, I
headed up such an important part of a boat, ride a snowmobile, ski or, level or age should try the program started shadowing Sharon, coordi-
the DNR’s legacy,” said Feldhauser, dogsled, shoot a rifle, paddle board at least once, calling it “a wonderful nating and facilitating these events.
who still works closely with the or do so many other things she has experience.” I am now ready to hit the ground
Michigan BOW program. “BOW experienced for the first time with “BOW has made some of the running.”
continues to be as popular, if not the BOW program. most wonderful mother-daughter The future success of the pro-
more so, than ever, and the reputa- “What’s more is that with the weekends,” Plourde said. “Origi- gram continues to lie in the coop-
tion of the U.P. program is stellar.” patient and kind guidance of the nally, a friend brought me, and I had eration and commitment of those
Past participants have also awesome instructors, I have learned such a great experience that I had competent women who have served
praised the program. and become comfortable enough to to share with my daughter. It has unselfishly over the years on the
“Going to BOW was a most own my own boat, ice shanty, auger, become our tradition whether we do U.P. BOW Coordinating Committee,
wonderful introduction to both rifle and kayak to name a few,” she one in Michigan or elsewhere.” with DNR leadership.
winter and summer pastimes when said. “And to fulfill the purpose of Pitz said the Michigan program “When we see the enthusiasm
I moved to the U.P. nine years ago,” BOW, I feel confident to do these could not continue without the pas- of the women participating in our
said Barbara Stewart-Greene of outdoor activities on my own, or sion of the volunteer BOW instruc- programs it makes us even more
Bruce Crossing. “Over the years, I with my family, enjoying these new tors and committee members. excited to put on the next program,”
learned snowshoeing, cross-country hobbies in the beautiful Michigan “Many of them have helped Kivela said.
skiing, dogsledding, snowmobiling, outdoors.” with the BOW program for the en- Tara Gluski, a committee
fishing, cooking, survival skills, Linda Burby-Evans of Chelsea tire 20 years it has been in the Upper member and instructor who teaches
first aid and much more, along with said she was invited by a friend Peninsula,” Pitz said. “Some are our women how to build winter shelters,
several fun craft projects. to her first BOW weekend over a own DNR employees, and others hike and backpack, successfully
“I got to deepen existing friend- decade ago. are just as passionate in their field distilled the aim of the program for
ships and meet new people, all in “I wasn’t really sure it would be of skill and want to pass along that instructors and students into one
the beautiful and encouraging atmo- for me, but that weekend was such knowledge.” quote.
sphere of Bay Cliff Camp.” a great experience that I’ve been Over the past several months, She said, “I love that I am
Jessica Francis of Hillsdale said going back ever since,” Evans said. Pitz has been co-coordinating the potentially inspiring people to step
she and her mom look forward to “I’ve learned so many things over BOW program in the U.P. with Mi- outside their comfort zones and
the two BOW weekends every year. the years. The best part about the chelle Zellar of Newberry. make being outdoors a lifestyle.”
“We love being able to spend BOW program is that you get to try Zellar said she decided to take Find out more on Becoming and
time together, meet up with old new things in a safe and supportive on coordination responsibilities Outdoors Woman in Michigan at
friends, and of course meet new environment. The friendships I’ve because the BOW program and the www.michigan.gov/bow.n
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 65
Northern
Workhorses
How the Beaver, Otter and other bush
planes made wilderness accessible...
R
eaders who have hunted lines on the rapid descent.
or fished in the Cana- That experience was so unsettling
dian wilderness prob- that 10 years passed before I buckled
ably got there by bush up in a bush plane again. Not all pilots A Beaver floatplane on duty in the Ontario wilderness
plane. If so, they know are daredevils like Duke but some Bush planes have taken me to wil- were built. The de Havilland Com-
the thrill of adventure certainly are. Most are highly skilled derness lakes in Saskatchewan, pany, which sold out to Hawker
and the joy of catching fish and bag- who know exactly what their air- Manitoba, the Northwest Territories, Siddeley in 1961 and later was bought
ging game that would be impossible craft can and cannot do. I remember Nunavik, Labrador and throughout by the Canadian government, eventu-
otherwise. Johnny Villaneuve, a Quebec northern Ontario to hunt caribou, ally became part of Boeing Canada
I became fascinated with pilot adept at fighting forest moose and ptarmigan and to fish for and then Bombardier. In 2005 rights
bush planes the first time I fires by pinpointing plumes lake trout, Arctic char, walleye and to out-of-production Beaver, Otter
rode in one, back in 1964 of retardant from the air. big northern pike. Those trips were and other de Havilland aircraft were
when I was a college fresh- When there were no fires dreams come true, and I cherish each bought by Viking, a British Columbia
man. A buddy and I hired a to put out, Johnny ferried and every one. company.
pilot named Duke to fly us sportsmen into remote fish- The workhorse for most of those Although bigger than the Bea-
from Hawk Lake near Wawa, ing lakes. adventures were Beaver and Otter ver at nearly 4,900 pounds empty
Ontario to Little Dosier Lake One summer day another aircraft, made by the de Havilland and with a height of 15-1/2 feet on
where we spent a week fish- friend and I hired Johnny Aircraft Company of Canada. I can pontoons and a wingspan of 58 feet,
ing for brook trout to fly us into Lac
while staying at an Michigan Meanders Framboise (Rasp-
still feel the vibration in my hunting
boots from the wide-open throttle of
the Otter can operate out of lakes only
one-third of a mile in length. Fully
abandoned trap-
per’s cabin. By Tom Huggler berry Lake), noted
for big brook trout.
the Beaver that lumbered aloft with weighted at nearly four tons, this
workhorse plane can take off from
two caribou bulls I managed to shoot
The trip turned Eyeing the mound of north of Schefferville, Quebec. First glassy water a bit more than a thou-
into a major scare when heavy fog gear we had piled onto the dock, our made in 1947, Beaver aircraft were sand feet in length.
prevented Duke from flying us out pilot told us to leave the heavy case of designed to carry up to seven pas- In spite of their Herculean ability,
on schedule. As though on cue, we beer behind, or he wouldn’t be able to sengers and haul cargo of about 1,500 these flying trucks are challenged by
ran out of food, the fish suddenly quit lift off. Even with the reduced weight, pounds. The real beauty of this plane, the same weather conditions that limit
biting, we killed and ate a seagull, and Johnny had to create a wake with his though, was its STOL (short take-off other fixed-wing aircraft. I remember,
nearly burned down the cabin due to pontoons and then run into the chop, and landing) ability. Fully loaded and for example, a fishing trip to Labrador
carelessness. When Duke finally res- all the while rocking his plane. The weighing 2-1/2 tons, the Beaver was when our single-engine Otter was un-
cued us three days later, heavy cloud trick worked and soon we were aloft. capable of taking off or landing at able to clear the Mealy Mountains
cover over Lake Superior far below I returned home from that adven- locations less than two football fields due to low cloud ceiling. Three
looked like rolls of baker’s dough, ture with a 21-inch trout, the biggest in length. With a 20 mph headwind, it times we roared aloft from the
beautiful…and frightening. With brookie of my life, and there were no needed only a bit more than 300 feet home lake and three times our
darkness coming on and Hawk Lake close calls. to get aloft. reluctant but prudent pilot had to
sealed shut by clouds, Duke relied Years later while flying around in This high-wing monoplane, which turn back. After a day wasted in
on the office dispatcher to guide him Alaska’s interior, I was photographing was nearly 10 feet tall on pontoons the motel with no prospect of clear
in. The second he punched his little a herd of caribou from our slow-mov- and sported a wingspan of 49 feet, weather ahead, our group hired a
Cessna airplane through the gloom, ing Piper Cub. When our pilot banked was perfect for negotiating wilder- trio of Bell Ranger helicopters to
the lake was in our face, but somehow the little plane so I could get a better ness lakes. Although the military whisk us just above the treetops to
Duke managed to land without flip- look through the open window, my ski relied on Beavers to negotiate short our destination lake.
ping over. Shaken but safely ashore, I cap blew out. For all I know, it’s still jungle landing strips, small fields and Like its smaller cousin, the Bea-
overheard the dispatcher tell our pilot there—a blaze-orange speck on the roadways under a thousand feet, it ver, many Otter aircraft are still flying
he narrowly missed some high power unending tundra. was designed for primary use as a sea- today. Besides transporting hunters
plane. The Beaver’s float draught was and anglers to remote places, the
only 20 inches with rudders up and 23 planes see duty for search and rescue
inches with rudders down. operations, as well as timber cruising,
A total of 1,657 Beavers were wildlife surveying, oil and mining
built during 20 years of production. exploration, charter flights and supply
Today, they are collectible aircraft, cargo.
whether for parts or restoration, and If you ever have a chance to travel
many are still flying. in one of these incredible aircraft,
I can still hear the roar of the Ot- don’t pass it up. If you hear one roar-
ter’s single-engine Pratt and Whitney ing overhead, tip your cap as many
engine that took me and 10 other sport old-timers do.
anglers above the Arctic Circle to fish A few years ago the Canadian
for giant lake trout from Chantrey Bushplane Heritage Centre in Sault
Inlet. I was riding next to the pilot Ste. Marie, Ontario hauled a disas-
on that hours-long flight from Baker sembled single-engine Otter by truck
Lake and had no ear protection. This and trailer to the Ultimate Sport Show
is a bad idea when flying in a single- at Novi, where it was a big hit. You
engine Otter, which came to market can see that plane today and learn
in 1953. Upon deplaning, I was so much more about bush pilots and
disoriented that I fell down and was their incredible aircraft at the museum
Bush planes made by de Havilland were designed to be no-frills unable to walk for several minutes. (www.bushplane.com); (705) 945-
workhorses. This is the instrument panel of a single-engine Otter. Only 466 single-engine Otters 6242).n
Woods-N-Water News
Michigan’s Premier Outdoor Publication
www.woods-n-waternews.com
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 67
Sporting Collectibles...
Extraordinary
Ed Cumings
Fly Rods
I
worked part-time in a sports the Flint Wagon Works, where he
store during my college years worked his way up to superintendent
in the mid-1960s selling of their spring and delivery wagon
everything from tennis rack- division. It was an exciting time to
ets to swim masks and fins be working in Flint, at the dawn of
to rifles and shotguns. My the automotive industry. In 1904,
favorite category, however, looking for something more chal-
was fishing tackle, which is lenging to do, he started
where I was first introduced selling “Tire-Doh,” a rub-
to Ed Cumings nets – all ber tire patching material
made in Flint, Michigan. made in Chicago. Soon, Ed
I continued selling their secured the exclusive sales
quality products throughout rights for Michigan, bought
my career in sporting goods, a gross of the cans and
and in May 2006 I wrote returned to Flint where he
one of my first “Woods-N- peddled Tire-Doh to early
Water News”
By Terry McBurney
automotive
articles entitled garages out
“Ed Cumings, of the back of
Inc. - Great Fishing Tackle from his car. Ed’s automotive accessory
Flint, Michigan.” Jeff Powell, presi- business quickly grew and he soon Ed Cumings fishing a small Michigan trout stream nicely equipped
dent of Ed Cumings, Inc. (www. added other automotive products to with his own products - a Cumings Lifetime willow creel, a Green-
cumingsnets.com), had invited me sell. Leaf bamboo fly rod, a wood trout net and lots of Cumings flies -
to go through their archives for Ed Cumings was also a conser- circa 1936. Ed Cumings Catalog Bob Davis
background material for the article vationist, an ardent sportsman, and
and to photograph some of their ear- an avid fly fisherman. Moreover, he moved his new tackle business into basic trout nets and two imported
liest products including handmade had numerous friends who were also the second story of his automotive Japanese creels, numerous accesso-
whole willow creels, laminated passionate trout fishermen. Many of wholesale company and debuted his ries plus a selection of trout flies. He
wood trout, canoe and boat nets, them had difficulties finding trout first trout fishing catalog in 1933. purchased almost every item listed
bamboo fly rods, as well as lures, fishing items suited for our Michi- The first Cumings catalog fea- in his first catalog from American
spoons, flies and poppers. gan streams, so they came to Ed tured sixteen pages of bamboo fly and English manufacturers, except
Edward M. Cumings was born with their requests. During the depth rods, steel bait casting rods, South for the domestic tapered leaders and
in Flint in 1875. After graduating of the Depression and at the age of Bend and Shakespeare fly reels, the trout flies, all which were hand-
from high school, he was employed fifty-eight, he made the decision to English fly lines and silk worm gut tied in his own factory.
by a number of area firms including open his own tackle company. Ed leaders, waders and hip boots, two He cataloged a nice selection of
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WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 71
Trapping Michigan’s weasel
W
eighing in to used to catch weasel with in the
at between winter months will also work in the
one and two summer months. Folks that raise
ounces the poultry and rabbits know why you
Least Weasel need to trap weasel in the summer
is the smallest months too well.
of Michigan’s furbearing animals. I make Lenon’s Weasel Super
And just a tad heavier we have a All Call Lure which is definitely
full grown ermine weigh- one of the oldest attractants
ing up to a whopping four ever formulated specifi-
ounces and measuring up cally for the weasel, which
to 12 inches long. Both are dates way back to 1924.
referred to as weasels by The first batch I personally
trappers, but obviously the made was in the winter of
ermine is more sought after 2016. That summer while From January to March weasels will be all white except the tip of tail which is
and at times brings a decent trapping a farmer’s pond black. All weasels turn brown in the spring and summer months. MDNR photo
price. In today’s market one for snapping turtles while
would be better talking to the other animals out of your set and be- and mice were everywhere. You are
off finding a taxi-
dermist or crafter By John Chagnon farmer a brown
weasel went right
ing extremely attractive to a weasel.
There is something about a hole in
going to find weasel where you find
food and that is mostly mice.
that wanted the weasel pelts. in front of us. Of course when the a box that a weasel just has to check At times mice will set off your
The weasel is found throughout pheasant raising farmer asked me to out. You can buy a weasel box from traps and sometimes get caught,
Michigan’s forest, fields and water terminate the weasel I said I would. a trapping supply company and use look at this situation as you just
edges. There is no closed season on My first nuisance weasel job was it for a pattern or search the web for got some free bait. With mice in
trapping weasel, but to trap for the also the first time I was to deploy instructions to construct one. Folks the area the weasel will not be far
fur it is recommended to trap them the lure I personally made. use one #0, 1, or 1.5 long spring trap behind. I find that when using Victor
from January to March when their A trap was set the first night or Victor Rat Traps inside the weasel Rat Traps I catch more mice than
fur will be all white except the tip lured with Lenon’s Weasel Lure and box. The trap is set right were the when I’m using long spring traps.
of tail which is black. All weasels to my amazement I received a call weasel will enter the box through a Remember to use dyed and waxed
turn brown in the spring and sum- from the farmer the next morning small 1.5” to 2” hole. In the other traps if possible and obviously set
mer months. The same techniques that the pheasant killing weasel was side of the box I use Lenon’s Weasel the tension light as a weasel does
caught. Super All Call Weasel Lure on a not weigh much.
Before you can quickly catch clump of dried grass to imitate a So when you’re looking for
any weasel you have to find where a
weasel has traveled for sure. Dur-
mouse nest– the number one food
source for most weasels.
something to do this winter in the
ing the winter time it is much easier For those that like to make their
outdoors consider catching yourself
a Michigan white weasel. And if
to find weasel as their tracks let us
4 Birds $85 per gun
own animal lure and bait here is you are farmer you just learned a
know exactly where they have been a recipe that Herb Lenon shared technique to protect your chickens
traveling. In fact, the best way to in his book Raccoon, Opossum, or rabbits. Also weasel trapping is
TOWER SHOOTS find where to set your weasel traps Skunk and Weasel Trapping 1946. a great way to introduce a young
On Select Weekends! is to travel trails and roads several One ounce each beaver castor and trapper to the art of trapping. I
See Web For Rates and Dates days after a snowfall and watch for muskrat musk, 6 weasel musk sacks, posted a few of our catches on
Affordable pheasant hunting on 317 acres of tracks. A weasel will almost always three ounces rotten fish, let it set one occasions when I took a family
switch grass, dwarf-milo sorgrum, and corn. return to where it has traveled; it month, stirring often. Use ten drops member or friend on the trapline
Traditional Ringneck Pheasants • Extra birds shot are free.
Morning or afternoon hunts. • Bird Cleaning is available. just may be a week or two until on fresh bait of rabbit or chicken. on our facebook page for pcsout-
Excellent dogs and guides - $60 per 1/2 day. Mr. Weasel returns. Trapping is a If you cannot find weasel tracks doors.
Brass or Steel shot loads only.
patience game. along the roadways, put your hik- As we wind down on the 2017
www.affordablepheasanthunting.com A weasel box set will outper- ing boots on and search rock piles, and 2018 trapping season I would
Walkiewicz Farms form all other weasel trapping sets, abundant farms, wood and brush like to thank all the folks that let
6115 Chapin Road • Deford, Michigan 48729 and provides several additional fea- piles, edges of swamps and trails me know they enjoy my articles
1-989-683-2749 tures including protecting your trap
during snowfall, keeping birds and
through the woods. Chances are
you will not have to hike too long
on trapping. More importantly it is
your comments on what you would
without finding a set of weasel like to learn about trapping that will
Always
Service After
10 Miles East of Bay City on M-25 in Quanicassee
the Sale 989-893-9931 • www.lindyssales.com
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 73
TROPHY PAGE
(Top photo)
Brian
Sheridan (in
front) from
Clarkston
took this nice
8-pt. during
bow season
in Roscommon
Co. hunting with
friend Ron Case.
Right; last year
Hunter Cameron, 12, bagged his first Brian won a
bear hunting with three generations of Ryan Hettle of Rochester caught this 35 inch Master An-
Cameron bear hunters. They were hunt- gler lake trout on the Au Sable River pier in Oscoda on a bronze medal in
ing the Newberry Unit with dogs. Cleo. He was up north on a fishing trip with his father. It Rio, Brazil for the
is also his first ever lake trout! U.S.A. in para-
cycling!
Jon Keppel Tate
took his first Caverly
black bear with a nice
hunting pike from
private land Muskegon
in Crawford River
Co. The bruin caught dur-
weighed 225 ing a camp-
pounds. ing trip.
Cooper
SEND
Milbourn of
Vermontville
with his first
US YOUR
turkey taken
in Ingham
Co.
TROPHY Kaylee Johnson, 10, of
Shepherd got her first
PHOTOS
buck after passing up
many this year and last
Robert Benjamin
year. She said it was well harvested this 8-pt.
Megan Sweeney with worth the wait. A 7-pt. Oct. 26. It has a 15 inch
wnw@pageone-inc.com with 16 1/4 inch spread.
a nice doe. spread.
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 75
TROPHY PAGE
Richard
Tuckey Charley
took this Dalman
dandy with his
8-pt. first deer
hunting taken on
Michi- Dec. 9 with
his uncles
gan’s muzzle-
Thumb. loader.
SEND US YOUR PHOTOS Dec. 9 was the lucky day Annalise Clark, 9. of Lowell
wnw@pageone-inc.com for Sophia Akin, she took
a nice 7-pt. with a muzzle-
took this nice 6-pt. with a
crossbow on Nov. 9 at 20
loader in Gratiot Co. yards and a perfect shot.
Kristin
Perry
with a
nice doe
Tanner Scott of Rochester taken
Hills took his first turkey,
Jim Lyons of Muskegon near
an 18 pound, bearded hen
hunting in Jackson Co. The took this 5-pt. on Thanks- Tim & Randy Nichols getting it done in Lowell.
hen had a 7 inch beard. giving Day in Manistee Co. Kansas for the 7th year in a row.
76 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
Live Bait
Vending Machines
I
n 2002, Nicholas Gomez the model so I developed our new
of Cadillac read about style in 2005.
a vending machine that “The old machine only offered
sold live bait. After doing six selections. With our new version,
extensive research in the customers can vend nightcrawlers,
years leading up to 2012, minnows, red worms, meal and wax
he decided to capitalize on the worms, and spikes, as well as all
opportunity of offering tackle and sorts of sports items, up to 43 selec-
fresh live bait 24 hours a day. “I had tions. Three years ago we developed
always wanted to own a traditional the Frozen 24-Hour Bait Box. It’s
bait and tackle store,” he said. “But our saltwater fishing bait model. It’s
I knew doing so would mean a great quickly become a big hit along the
deal of overhead in both time and coastal area.” Gary can be reached
finances. at www.livebaitvending.com.
“I felt I could extend my al- I couldn’t quite believe there
ready existing online retail was a demand for vending
presence selling fishing machine bait in Michigan,
tackle and live bait through but from conversations
vending machines. When with Nicholas and Gary, I
I purchased my first 24 learned that the days of dig-
Hour Sportsman Live Bait ging in the dirt for worms
Vending machine, I knew I is fast becoming an activity
could have the best of both appealing only to young If a fisherman wants bait or tackle after the bait shops close, a
worlds as an online retailer children. If a fisherman vending machine is the answer.
and a retail bait wants bait after
shop operator.”
Village
By Sharon Kennedy the bait shops
close, a vending
think owners might benefit from
one of our machines. I have been
nac Bridge. He wasn’t aware of
vending bait machines making it
Tackle LLC is a machine is the known to check the bait coolers this far north, but he’s always look-
family owned business with Nicho- answer. inside locations and see if we can ing for new leads.
las at the helm, his wife Rebecca as Unlike typical machines that provide a better service and product However, I have a theory. We
first mate and their 14 year old son, dispense candy bars, soda pop, and to fishermen. Many location own- Yoopers are a hardy bunch. We
Carlos, as chief inspector of worms. other snacks, the live bait vendor is ers are excited to hear our proposal don’t mind buying Snickers or Pep-
When a shop owner agrees to have built to withstand the challenges of and how we can partner together to si, a bag of potato chips, or a vanilla
Nicholas place a machine outside weather and vandals. The specs call service the fishing customer base. drumstick from a vending machine.
his store front, Nicholas sets it up, it an “Energy efficient brute weigh- “In the fall, we stock a large We might even be tempted to buy a
services and repairs it, and trouble- ing 975 pounds complete with a selection of preserved minnows tuna fish sandwich on white bread,
shoots any problems. The owner high security outdoor package, anti- and spawn bags for steelheads and but worms? Maggots? Minnows?
also gets a commission on sales. pry covers, lock cover, rain guards, salmon. Towards the first of Oc- You’ve got to be kidding. That
“April 15th through Labor Day and a credit card reader. A factory tober when fishing tapers off, our would take all the fun out of bond-
is our busiest time,” Nicholas said. installed alarm system and a heater machines give us the opportunity ing with our kids on warm summer
“We stock and service many ma- kit that allows for operation on the to stock deer scent as well as other nights, flashlights in hand, empty
chines in various counties including coldest days of the year are standard items like broadheads for the bow soup cans ready to be filled with dirt
Wexford, Benzie, Grand Traverse, features at no extra cost. Heated and arrow hunter. Basic supplies and plump, wiggly nightcrawlers
Lake, Clare, and Osceola. We buy glass eliminates fog buildup on the like hooks, bobbers, and sinkers just waiting to be plucked from the
the bait wholesale and package it front of the machine.” are always available. The primary earth and hung on the end of a hook.
in traditional blue bait cups avail- I asked Nicholas what kind of purpose is live bait and tackle, but Gary Harsel was telling me he
able in 8, 12, and 16 ounce sizes. bait he sells. “We sell a variety of other options like the ones I men- recently sold three Frozen 24 Hour
Every week I travel and restock the live bait that caters to the general tioned are worth looking into. It’s Bait Boxes in the Anchorage area.
machines as needed. On weekends fisherman including wax worms, important to sell what people want We’re talking Alaska, folks. We’re
and during the summer Carlos helps spikes, wigglers, slip float, and Ex- any time of the year and to give talking the last frontier, majestic
with quality control. He’s learning a tra Bright Maggots,” he said. “And them options. wilderness, and 34,000 coastline
lot about running a business through we change our bait selection based “With many small, independent miles. And now we’re talking frozen
hands-on experience, and I mean on the fishing seasons. The key to bait shops going out of business and bait machines?
that literally. It’s often Carlos who keeping live bait fresh and active is convenience stores lacking indoor I’m still scratching my head
opens the cups, puts a finger in, and to regularly check on the product. floor space, our machine meets the over that one and wondering when
checks for healthy worms.” Every week I meticulously check needs of the local fishing commu- all the fun of looking for worms
After hearing from Nicholas, I each bait cup to ensure that the nity. The 24 hour bait boxes have underneath rocks and boards went
immediately emailed Gary Harsel product is fresh and alive. This type been a big hit in Cadillac and the out of style. I guess I’m hopelessly
of Morgantown, PA. He’s the fellow of quality control is labor intensive, surrounding areas. I’ve placed some stuck in the 20th century. Hurry,
who sold Nicholas his first machine. but it ensures the fisherman is get- machines where folks would least somebody, and give me swift kick
Gary developed the concept and ting the best in premium fresh live expect to find them like at camp- into the new millennium. I can’t stay
configuration of live bait vending bait. grounds. For people who haven’t in 1999 forever.
machines to what they are today. “The 24 Hour Sportsman keeps seen one, they think it’s a novelty. Nicholas Gomez can be reached
He’s been in the live bait vending a constant temperature of 45 de- They’re flabbergasted but once they at 231-846-8484 or through Village
industry since 1997. He said he saw grees. Bait prices vary depending on see how convenient it is and the Tackle LLC website www.villg-
the original bait vendor advertised what customers select. freshness of the bait, they become tackle.com for further information
in a fishing magazine and as he put “It’s not unusual for me to check regular users.” on the 24-Hour Sportsman Bait &
it, “I knew I was on to something, out various locations like gas sta- As far as Nicholas knows, the Tackle or the 24-Hour Frozen Bait
but there were shortcomings with tions and convenience stores where I machine has yet to cross the Macki- Box.n
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 77
WATERFOWL POACHING
W
aterfowl managed area on Harsens Island
poaching has located in the St. Clair River to
been around another DNR managed area located
for a very long at Point Mouille which is located on
time. At one- the border of Wayne and Monroe
time water- Counties where the Detroit River
fowl was commercially hunted and meets Lake Erie. There is extensive
sold in Michigan as well as other waterfowl hunting all along the
states. As time progressed and their Lake Erie coastline all the way to
numbers dropped, laws were enact- Ohio.
ed to stop the overharvest of Being raised in Flint I
waterfowl and put bag limits had no idea of the amount
and seasons on waterfowl of waterfowl that came
and end the commercialized through this area each fall
hunting of waterfowl. and the amount of water-
My career as a conserva- fowl hunters who hunted
tion officer started in Wayne these waters. Most of my
and Monroe Counties in waterfowl hunting was done
1980. Most people wouldn’t on small bodies of water
think there was jump shooting
a lot of water-
fowl hunting in By Jeff Pendergraff ducks. I was
about to learn
metro Detroit area and they would how many people waterfowl hunted
be wrong. There is a major flyway on big bodies of water.
from Canada that covers Lake Hu- In 1980 there wasn’t a lot of
ron, the Detroit River right through deer in Wayne and Monroe Counties 58 ducks taken illegally over bait!
Lake Erie. There is a very long his- like there is today. Almost everyone
tory of people hunting waterfowl in in this area went north to hunt deer. this area (there were eight officers hunt draw.
this area, from the DNR’s waterfowl We as conservation officers working and one sergeant) spent most of The threat of lead poisoning
our deer season working waterfowl from spent shot changed the law
What’s In Your
hunters instead of deer hunters prior to 1980 making it illegal to
because there were so many people possess or hunt waterfowl with lead
hunting waterfowl during deer sea- shot shells. It took a very long time
son and the migration of waterfowl to educate hunters on this, I mean
Ol d Tac k l e B ox ??
was in full swing. Our deer season a very long time. Every day you
? ? didn’t really start until everyone
returned home from deer hunting up
worked waterfowl hunters for the
first several years you were ticketing
?? north.
There were several different
people for using or possessing lead
shot shells. Not just a few, but many
Terry Joining him methods used to hunt waterfowl in times, they would have several
McBurney, will be Dick southeast Michigan. Some would boxes and sometimes cases of lead
Woods-n- VanRaalte hunt over decoys off many of the
Water News of Starboard shot shells with them while hunting
staff writer and Marine islands in the Detroit River. Some waterfowl.
fishing tackle Restorations, hunted local ponds, lakes, some Once in the early 1980s I had
historian, will Grand Haven, used layout boats, some hunters received a RAP (report all poaching)
be setting up his Michigan who will use the DNR’s waterfowl managed
antique fishing exhibit part of his complaint about a crew of water-
tackle displays at collection of vintage hunting units such as Harsens Island fowl hunters hunting off a small
the Outdoorama outboard motors. and Point Mouille for the early island in the Detroit River just off
in Novi and the With over 20 years of morning draw or a second afternoon shore in the city of Ecorse, the bor-
Ultimate Sports experience restoring
Show in Grand Rapids. old outboards, as well der between Michigan and Ontario,
With a lifetime of as wood and fiberglass Canada. In many areas, the river
experience in the fishing boats, VanRaalte will also isn’t that wide, you could even swim
industry and author of be answering questions it, but I wouldn’t recommend it. It
many magazine articles and offering free
on antique tackle, he will appraisals. They are also has a very strong current, hundreds
be answering questions interested in buying old of boats are on it at any given time
and offering free sporting collectibles for and freighters use it.
appraisals at each show. their collections. Licensed Shooting Preserve The complaint was waterfowl
Mayville, MI
season in Michigan was closed, but
COME IN AND MEET THE EXPERTS (989) 843-6576 it was still open in Ontario. How-
Novi Outdoorama Grand Rapids Ultimate Sports Show • Dogs with Guides Available • Clubhouse ever, they were clearly hunting in
Booth 5150 Booth #50 in The Grand Gallery • Open 7 Days A Week • Bird Cleaning Michigan. I just hid my patrol car
March 1-4, 2018 March 15-18, 2018 • Fields With Excellent Cover & • Morning And Afternoon and observed the crew hunt until it
Suburban Collection Showcase DeVos Place Safety Fields In Between Hunts was dark. I watched them pack up
Novi, Michigan Grand Rapids, Michigan • Birds Released After You Arrive • Extra Birds Shot are Free and head back to the boat launch
• No Gun Or Membership Fees • Gift Certificates Available site in Ecorse. They had a great day
of hunting ducks and were very
Located 17 Miles North of Lapeer successful. I waited until they had
their boat on the trailer and out of
www.jankspheasantfarm.com the water before I approached them,
78 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
this way they couldn’t take off back officers. having boats it made this operation 35 wood ducks, 23 mallards, includ-
into the Detroit River and dump On one deer season opener CO a little more difficult. It takes a lot ing 13 hen mallards. The poachers
anything illegal they may have. Epskamp conducted a waterfowl of time to gather up your decoys weren’t using decoys or calling the
They first denied they were patrol on the Detroit River and sur- in the Detroit River, which helped waterfowl in, they were just shoot-
hunting in Michigan. Finally, they prised many waterfowl hunters who out. I was dropped off on the island ing them as they came in to feed.
owned up to it after I told them I figured with the deer opener all COs with the two crews and I contacted They shot 58 ducks in a very short
had been watching them for a few would be working deer hunters. CO the smaller group and gathered their period of time.
hours. They finally admitted they Epskamp ended up with 18 cases, driver’s licenses, then moved to the All of them pled guilty and were
were going to go to Ontario to hunt several for over limits of waterfowl. next crew. Meanwhile my partner ordered to pay $5000 each and a
when they realized some of them We had many cases of hunters headed to the other island and con- $10 conservation fee for a total of
didn’t have the proper Ontario hunt- breasting out ducks and hiding them tacted the third crew. By the time $20,040 (restitution per duck was
ing licenses. among the decoys or other places we were done it was a late night $500). They were also ordered to
After I recovered several ducks because they shot too many. Loaded for everyone. But a very reward- pay fines of $880 each and lost their
(restitution $500 per duck) I located shotguns in their boats, marine ing night, being able to catch three hunting privileges for the next three
several military ammo boxes full safety, no plugs in their shotguns crews all late shooting with boats on years. They were put on probation
of lead shot shells from the boat. and not having the correct licenses the Detroit River was a very good for 18 months and a 90-day jail
I asked why so many shells and were most common types of viola- night! sentence was held over their heads
why lead shot. They said that they tions. One type of violating that wa- in case they violated their probation.
wanted to be prepared and steel shot Shooting after hours was one terfowl hunters use that is perhaps They also forfeited their firearms!
didn’t work as well as lead shot! of the more difficult violations to the most productive is hunting over Nice job COs, prosecutor’s office
Waterfowl hunting was very big catch. There is a start time and end bait. It’s not a very common type and judge. Most important was the
during that time period. We spent time for shooting for every day of poaching but when I have caught citizen who placed the call to the
hundreds of hours working water- during the waterfowl season. The people doing it, normally they had a RAP line.
fowl hunters because there were so law was enacted to control harvest lot of ducks. Waterfowl hunting is a great
many hunters and so many birds. If numbers; closer to dark, the more In 2016 Conservation Officers sport and lots of fun with a very
you were assigned to work you most the ducks would come flying in to Dave Rodgers and Chris Simp- long history in our state. But, like
likely spent at least part if not all your decoys. son received a RAP complaint at everything else we have rules. When
day working waterfowl hunters. Twice during my eight years 7:38 a.m. of an immense amount you see someone poaching, report
Normally the season ran Sep- in Wayne and Monroe Counties I of shooting during the waterfowl it. The fish and game belong to all
tember through December and the caught three different crews shoot- opener in Michigan’s south zone. of us.
weather would be nice in September ing late at the same time. Once on Officers found four men with over Author is Jeff Pendergraff,
and early October, but it could get a small lake on the county line near 200 pounds of corn being used as retired Captain from the DNR’s Law
real nasty in November and Decem- I-275. I was working by myself bait and 58 dead ducks. There were Enforcement Division.n
ber on the Detroit River and Lake watching all three crews shoot late
Erie. There used to be a late bluebill with my binoculars. I wrote down
season for most of December. Only the time of each shot and their Your chance
to win has never
the hardest of waterfowl hunters description and how many ducks
were out because the weather could they shot. There was only one way
be bad on the Detroit River. It was
a productive time to be out if you
out and I just waited for each crew
as they made their way back to their been better!
were a conservation officer. Most
BETTER THAN
vehicles. With the aid of a Michigan
poachers would think it was too State Trooper from the Flat Rock
nasty for the COs to be out and you
could find a lot of violations.
Post I could search everyone, seize
the waterfowl and lead shot and is-
1 in 34 chance to win!
One nasty day I was out with sue citations.
CO Larry Epskamp and we were My second case was on the Guns and other merchandise from quality manufactures such as:
looking for waterfowl hunters. It
was very cold, very windy and
Detroit River and with the aid of
another CO we could watch and Ruger, Smith & Wesson, Benelli
snowing very hard. There were write down the same information and much more.
$11,200 in prizes
no cell phones then, our handheld on three groups shooting late. The
over
radios didn’t work most of the time biggest issue with this case was that
and our boats were junk compared they were on two different islands
to what is used today. in the river. With all three crews
We were on the east side of Eagle Eye Country Club • Bath, Michigan
March 3rd, 2018
Grosse Isle heading back to Point
Mouille where we launched our
boat. The wind was blowing badly $20.00 per ticket
and the snow was hitting us in the
face and it was hard to see. CO Prize List
Epskamp was driving the boat, I had 1. Savage 220 Slug 20ga 13. Bushnell Trophy Cam 25. Ruger American 30-06
my head down to keep it out of the 2. Ruger LCP 380acp pistol 14. Marlin 795 26. Mossberg 702 Plinkster
wind. I looked up for a second and 3. Remington 870 express 12ga 15. Nikon Bushmaster Scope 27. Savage A17
4. Marlin 336 30-30 16. Smith & Wesson SD9 pistol 28. EAA Windicator 357mag
we were feet away from hitting a Family Recipe since 1800s! Made in Michigan 5. Stihl Chainsaw 17. Marlin 795 29. Stihl Chainsaw
buoy which would at the very least Use as a Relish, Condiment, Sauce, Spread,
have capsized our boat. I grabbed 6. Ruger 10/22 Lasermax 18. Henry Golden Boy 22 30. Savage Axis 308
Garnish, so much more than Salsa to 7. Savage Model 64 Thread Brl 19. Remington 783 30-06 w/scope 31. Savage Model 64 Thread Brl
the steering wheel and just missed
the buoy. If the impact hadn’t killed enhance the flavor of whatever you’re eating. 8. Savage Stevens 320 12ga 20. Stihl Chainsaw 32. Ruger AR5.56
Awesome with Sample CHA CHA 9. H&R Pardner Pump 12ga 21. Remington 783 243 w/scope 33. Carbon Express 350 Crossbow
us we would have died from hypo- 10. Bushnell Trophy Cam 22. H&R Pardner Pump 20ga 34. Benelli Nova 12ga
Venison, Beef, Pork, at the Huntin’
thermia. It was the last time either
Chicken and Seafood! Time Expo 11. Reminton 870 express 12ga 23. CVA Wolf 50cal 35. Benelli Nova 12ga
of us conducted a patrol again in 12. Mossberg 500 Bantam 20ga 24. Bushnell Trophy Cam
this type of weather. Just goes to Visit our Website for recipe ideas! *Commemorative Bucks of Michigan reserves the
tell you, if the weather is too bad ORDER TODAY! MRSPRUITTSCHACHA.COM call (517) 679-6226 to order tickets right to substitute prize of equal value if unforeseen
Visit: www.buckfax.com for more info
for the poachers, it’s too bad for the event occurs and prize is not available
313-610-6724 *Need not be present to win - License # R43616
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 79
Take advantage of the post season
to scout new hunting grounds
O
n the morning of approach scouting very differently. I
November 11, I was take an extremely targeted approach
nestled into a large to scouting. I need to understand
cherry tree well the whole property and quickly fine
before daybreak. tune that to the most important loca-
The woods were tions that will hold a concentration
drenched from the previous day’s of whitetails.
rain making the woods dead quiet. When hunting property close to
After such an intense rain during the home, I have the luxury to go back
peak of the rut I knew this morn- and scout it over and over again.
ing was going to be good. With the This is extremely effective but not
wind in my favor I felt confident always feasible. Let’s get into the
that I would see some buck activity most effective ways to scout so you
this morning. With just an hour of can be in the exact right tree on the
hunting light behind me I glanced first hunt.
over my shoulder and saw a nice 10
point looking at an unusual bump
Mapping Tools
Scouting during the off season is
on the tree, me. I couldn’t believe it;
more than just a walk in the woods.
he was only 18 yards away. After a
It’s very targeted and defined around
long stare down he accepted me as
high quality locations. The off
an annoying squirrel and continued
season is a time to sort out the best
down his path.
travel routes, exactly where bucks
I did everything I could to regain
are bedded, doe bedding areas, and
my composure, this one rattled me.
deer sign that indicates a cluster of
I quickly swung into action and
deer activity.
prepared for the opportunity. The
When looking over property on Finding a couple big gnarly rubs in a tight funnel will get any white-
buck already moved through my
your couch through a mapping tool,
shooting lane and was starting to
time is on your side. You can look
tail hunter excited.
move down the hillside. Coming
to full draw I needed to quickly
over the terrain features again and
Using maps helps me look over identified. These are locations that I
again regardless of how far away have already marked as areas of in-
pick a small hole among the tangle property remotely time and time
the property is from your terest from my homework. Funnels,
of brush. Everything was again. Many mapping tools allow
home. Most often I have a points, swamps, changing terrain,
happening so fast and he me to zoom in to get a fine level of
was nearly gone, quartering
hunting partner review the
detail. I can even review neighbor- and any significant terrain features
same maps and provide his are high on my list. Walking to these
away at 30 yards. I focused ing property to see how the terrain
perspective. Combining locations and then scouting the
on his shoulder and settled on their ground impacts deer move-
several different perspec- connecting locations often proves if
my pin. ment on my side of the fence.
tives allows us to combine what I saw on the map and deer sign
The moment I squeezed
the trigger I knew my shot
our knowledge and pick the Boots on the Ground align. At times what looks good on
best locations before even One of the most exciting parts the map is not a good hunting loca-
was off. The adrenaline
stepping foot on the prop- about whitetail hunting is all the tion. In these situations the terrain,
rush of buck fever
By Brian Miller
erty. hard work done before the hunt. It’s forest cover, or hunting pressure is
got the better of me
Combining the not just shooting a buck; it’s every- often the culprit causing a location
and I clean missed.
use of topographical thing leading up to the hunt. A big to be less than ideal. Boots on the
This was my first morning of a
three-day archery hunt on a new
maps and aerial photography has part of this journey includes hours ground is the only way to confirm or
allowed me to get terrain changes, of putting boots on the ground, bust a location.
hunting property. What a moment! deciphering deer sign and terrain.
thickness of the area, and cover Once I validate a location has
Although that shot didn’t turn out
with a dead buck, the encounter
type. It’s easy to identify swamps, It comes down to narrowing down good deer traffic and rut activity I
cover change, and terrain changes. thousands of trees in the forest to follow all the sign and travel routes
came together because of the many Often aerial photography has vari- that exact one right tree to set up a
hours of scouting done almost 10 in every direction. I want to know
ous different years of photographs treestand. where the deer are going and where
months earlier. It’s always this time during both summer and winter The first moment I walk onto a
of the year that I’m assessing my they are coming from. It’s important
months. Looking at those different new property I visually look at the to do this on all the trails that are
hunting ground and thinking about pictures allows hunters to see inside terrain and cover. I want to under-
the next year, along with my an- passing through these locations.
nual hunting travels which take me
the tree canopy and how much the stand if this matches what I ex- I’m specifically looking for
forest changes between the differ- pected after scouring the maps. The clusters of sign where everything
to new hunting property in faraway ent photographs. Combine these undercover can look different and
locations both on public and private funnels down to within bow range.
views with the maps you have on land could have been changed since After three decades of preparing
chunks of ground. your smartphone to pinpoint areas the aerial photographs were taken. stands, I start to get a feeling when
Traveling to new states and that show significant deer sign when Then I jump right into walking the I’m scouting. That feeling comes
properties to hunt every year has walking the property. outer boundary. I start with the outer
taught me how to quickly and ef- when I see some significant fresh
Maybe I am a bit old school, but boundary to give me context of what sign, a thick cover, multiple terrain
fectively scout. Most hunts on the I have decades of notes, manually I will encounter inside the property.
road only last three to five days features funneling down activity,
written printed maps with tons of This also provides information on and rut sign. It’s not always all of
and usually only allow for one to details. After compiling notes, those the surrounding property, most im-
two days of scouting during the off those things combined but the more
details help you understand the portantly neighboring hunting pres-
season. There is no time to fine tune combinations along with a higher
bigger picture on how deer use the sure. While walking the boundaries
concentration of deer activity is
my stands after a couple hunts. The property. Looking at bedding areas, I’m marking anything significant on
exact right tree needs to be selected rub lines, terrain, and other features ideal. That is when I start to get ex-
my GPS and physical map.
right away or I come home empty quickly allows travel routes to begin After walking the boundaries,
handed. Because of this constraint I to form. I head for locations that I already Scouting page 82
80 FEBRUARY 2018 WNW NEWS
Michigan Deer Camp Traditions…By Jake Dykstra
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WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2018 85
HUNTING LAND FOR SALE
BRANDON CROPSEY CHUCK KEEFER EDMUND NOGASKI JAKE EHLINGER JUSTIN OLK
Broker, Land Specialist Agent, Land Specialist Agent, Land Specialist Agent, Land Specialist Agent, Land Specialist
Michigan Central Michigan Northern Michigan Southeast Michigan West Central Michigan
(269) 816-3010 (989) 600-4112 (231) 330-4107 (517) 937-2118 (616) 648-6156
MICHAEL TURNER SHAD WOODRUFF SHAWN KELLEY TONY HANSEN
Agent, Land Specialist Agent, Land Specialist Agent, Land Specialist Agent, Land Specialist
Eastern Michigan North Central Michigan Southeast Michigan Central Michigan
(248) 770-4898 (989) 330-4032 (586) 292-1812 (269) 420-9510
CONTACT AN AGENT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BUYING AND
SELLING HUNTING, FARMLAND AND TIMBERLAND
1.5 ACRES!! TRANQUIL FAWN LAKE! 20 WOODED ACRES!! ON CHANNEL TO ELBOW LAKE!! NEAR RIFLE RIVER!!
Nice and cute 2 bedroom home w/spacious garage Lovely and spacious 3 bedroom home with ac- Bedroom home on full bsmt /2 car garage. Main 3 bedroom home w/detached garage, nice This one bedroom mobile home would make a
that has a convenient lean to. Great setting with trails cess to “no motor” lake. AC, partly finished bsmt, floor laundry, recently updated kitchen & bath, kitchen w/pantry, island & breakfast nook, pleasant getaway on an ACRE of property and
at rear of prop leading to Silver Creek! Pleasant year master suite, garage, deck, newer shingles & large covered rear deck with beautiful views and master suite, nice views from wrap-around near lakes and the beautiful Rifle River for fan-
round home or enjoyable weekend getaway!! laminates!! Seller giving carpet allowance!! trails for nature walking or the hunter!! deck, on an ACRE with your own pond!! tastic fishing and superb canoeing/kayaking!!
$39,900 1833833 $158,900 1838336 $154,900 1840412 $157,000 1810533 $25,000 1831259
NEAR LAKE GEORGE!! 4 ACRES!! 1.8 ACRES!! 1300 SQUARE FEET!! RIFLE RIVER WATERFRONT!!
Recently remodeled 3 bedroom, 2 ba w/garage on 2 Spacious 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home w/garage and heat- 2 bedroom singlewide, manufactured home on partly This 2 bedroom mobile home w/garage is near Hale w/ Over a HALF ACRE & 80’ of river frontage!! Nice 2
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newer floorings and newer counter tops. Enjoy the public bsmt, paved driveway, maple & apple trees & more!! With for water activities and near acres of National Forest able weekend/vacation getaway in super recreational of windows with fantastic views, some furnishings,
access and boat ramp at this desirable all sports lake!! some TLC, this could be your year round country home!! for the hunter!! Great weekend cabin or hunt camp!! area near lakes, streams & Huron Nat’l Forest!! security system, appliances, deck & more!!
$74,900 1840493 $129,900 1839823 $35,000 1838366 $29,000 1840769 $139,900 1831481
OPEN FLOOR PLAN!! 1.44 ACRES!! NEAR RIFLE RIVER!! OVER 5 ACRES!! 1.24 ACRES!!
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Rifle River for excellent fishing and canoeing/kayaking! Open floor plan, enclosed porch, wood stove, base- newer water pump & shed with electric & hose wa- ing windows on both levels, large deck, pond & heated for swimming, boating and fishing! Perfect little “Up
Newer and windows in 2013, some furnishings & more!! ment, a bath on each floor and large garage!! ter hook-up. Great getaway also near many lakes!! garage. Beautiful setting w/RIFLE RIVER FRONTAGE!! North” getaway for year round recreational fun!!
$31,900 1830854 $84,900 1838514 $24,500 1838322 $174,900 1839528 $19,900 1840716
CUTE AND WELL-MAINTAINED!! GREAT FISHING LAKE!! BEAUTIFUL RIVERFRONT!! STATE LAND ON 2 SIDES!! NICE LAKE VIEW!!
2-bedroom home on large lot w/appliances, natural 198 feet of water frontage with nice views on 8 acre Gorgeous 3 bedroom, 2.5 ba home has heated ga- Beautiful 3-bdrm, 2 full ba home nestled on 4.54 ACRES. 3 bedroom home with a view of all sports RIFLE LAKE
gas heat, family room, storage shed, fire pit and TURTLE LAKE. Well-maintained 3 bedroom is on 2 rage w/upstairs, fenced garden area, extensive deck- Completely remodeled home is a must see and updates and newer drywall, flooring, countertops, back splash
nice deck for relaxing outdoors. Cozy year round ACRES in beautiful setting & some nice landscaping. ing, wood floors, FP, AC, 8.8 ACRES & 1170’ on AU include newer windows, furnace, doors, kitchen cabi- & updated bath. Garage, sunroom, bonus upper level
or affordable getaway in great recreational area!! Insulated pole barn and shed, both w/elec, for storage!! GRES RIVER w/breathtaking views & much more!! nets, water tank/lines & siding on both home & garage!! 16x18 room, garden area & a fenced spot for your pets!!
$37,500 1828738 $49,900 1838539 $265,000 1798150 $129,900 1840967 $90,000 1838970
CREEK FRONT GETAWAY!! SECLUDED HUNTING CAMP!! 40 ACRE HORSE FARM!! TWO FOR ONE!! ON CUL-DE-SAC!!
Just over a HALF ACRE w/2 bedroom home & 221’ of 18 WOODED ACRES w/2 bedroom home is the perfect Gorgeous rolling property perfect for horses w/like-new There are 2 homes included in this listing both w/one Nice 3 bedroom home with 2 car garage and access
frontage on Silver Creek. Newer roof in 20167, newer place to call your hunting cabin that is also ADJACENT 80x120 outbldg, riding arena, horse stalls, tack room, bath and large lot. Near several lakes for swimming, to BUSH LAKE for boating, swimming and fishing.
well & newer septic, 2 storage sheds, screened porch, TO STATE LANDS!! Propane lights, range, refrigera- alley way 30x40 heated storage bldg with workshop & boating and fishing and not too far from State lands Large kichen, FP, natural gas heat, front and rear
beautiful views and near many lakes!! tor, wood heat, gravity tank and wired for generator!! lean to, fenced pastures and owner’s 2 bdrm home!! for the hunter! Live in one, rent or sell the other!! decks, paved driveway & lake just across the road!!
$54,900 1832428 $64,900 1805656 $199,900 1827987 $26,500 1840529 $59,000 1840484
ACREAGE AND WATERFRONT!! SOOTHING MULESHOE LAKE!! LAKE GEORGE WATERFRONT!! AN ACRE OF PROPERTY!! 10 WOODED ACRES!!
210’ of sandy frontage on popular, all sports CLEAR Quaint 2 bedroom home on no motor 8.8 acre Lovely home w/frontage on allsports lake just min- Spacious 2 bedroom home or older farmhouse has tons Lovely 3 bedroom, 2 ba home w/garage! Great kitchen
LAKE and just over 2 ACRES!! 3 bedroom home, over lake!! Appliances & some furnishings included, utes from town. FP, large family room, recently re- of great amenities including newer floors and cabinets, w/island and appliances, FP in spacious living area,
2600 square feet, full walkout bsmt, skylights, gas FP, storage shed, spacious deck with beautiful modeled kitchen has newer cupboards, backsplash built in bookcase, Michigan bsmt, detached garage & master suite w/walk-in closet and private bath. Great
garage, pole bldg, boat dock, apple orchard & more!! pretty views or to enjoy the wildlife in the area!! & laminate floors and so much more to enjoy!! more!! Fantastic year round home on paved road!! location near lakes & State land w/gorgeous views!!
$139,900 1839256 $60,000 1798881 $99,000 1839413 $69,900 1837015 $129,900 1840732
616-437-7176
Concrete Overhead Door with
Walkout. Sheridan Township.
Asking $289,000
5710 Clouse Rd, Glennie Clark Rd & Hill Side Dr 1009 Zimowske Rd, Mio
990 sf, 2 bed, 1 bath with 12 Excellent building location 1500+ sf, 3 bed, 1.5 bath with
acres on dead end road. with just over 5 acres, less detached garage and barn on
Interested in having a hobby than 5 miles to downtown 25 acres. Come see what
farm? This is for you, room to Harrisville and Lake Huron. living up north is all about on
roam, some fencing, ideal Mostly open with gently your new covered porch or
location. $85,000 rolling hills could be ideal for covered deck with this Move
For more information text that dream home. $12,500 in Ready Gem. $149,000
R569702 to 52187 For More Information Text
R369989 to 52187
3464 Kimberlin, Glennie 480 acres on Mitchell Trail Tara Lane, Grayling
20 acres perfect for building Perfect investment for any Out of the way yet still close
or hunting with small pond sportsman/woman. 2 private to everything Northern
and nice mix of wooded and lakes, borders federal land Michigan has to offer.
open areas. Structures have on all sides plus it has two Perfect for that upcoming
no value and sold in “as-is” cottages on site with electric. hunting trip or building that
condition. NEW $50,000 For Hunting and fishing was dream home. 10.55 acres
More Info Text R627991 to never easier than here. only $21,000 For More
52187 $1,300,000 For More Info Information Text R529843 to
Text R505657 to 52187 52187
SOLD
COMMERCIAL W
PROPERTIES NE
*DV
20 ACRES 56 ACRES
Great Visibility from I-69 & Belsay Rd. Lapeer County, 24x24 Rustic Cabin w/ Loft,
6 Parcels, 1.6 Acres - 12.3 Acres. RECORD TURKEY shot on this property! Genesee County, Shiawassee Lake.
Genesee County. $135,000 - $495,000. *DV $219,000 *DV $395,000
NEW
CHIPPEWA COUNTY
NEW
LIVINGSTON COUNTY OAKLAND COUNTY
D UCED
ICE R E
LINDAL CEDAR HOME - A RARE GEM! 170 ACRES PR
3600+ Sq Ft Custom Log Home in Fenton. 3 Master Cozy Log Cabin, Outbuildings, 1/4 mile on Gorgeous Stone & Brick Home. Approx. 3800 Sq Ft Finished
Suites, 2.4 Beautiful Acres, 1900 Caboose Guesthouse. St. Mary’s River, Beach Front, Secluded. Living Space Including Finished Walkout. Build 2016.
*DV $449,000 *DV $185,000 *DV $359,000
D 10 ACRES 79 ACRES
SOL
72 ACRES
EW GREAT
N BUILDING SITES
OAKLAND *DV LAPEER COUNTY
LAPEER COUNTY
COUNTY 5 Parcels, $145,000 - $595,000 Amazing Home Over 5,200 sq ft of Living
Gorgeous Home on Space & Outdoor Entertainment. Gorgeous
72 Acres. Great Building Site Commercial, 1 Acre - 2.6 Acres property, 8 ponds. Very Private and Secluded.
*DV $895,000 *DV $115,000 In the Davison Athletic & Country Club Complex *DV $1,265,000
DRONE
*DV VIDEO GO TO: MIDREAMPROPERTIES.com
OR CALL 810-449-1286
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802 Ashman St. • Midland
989-832-1866
Holding Power
Retrievability • Durability The Chene Anchor
201 Industrial Way, Fenton, MI • 517-202-2949
or available at...
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