Massachusetts State Wildlife Action Plan

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

State Wildlife Action Plan Draft -- Comments accepted through July 31, 2015

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) is soliciting public comment on the draft Massachusetts State Wildlife Action Plan.
Congress requires each state to complete a State Wildlife Action Plan, or SWAP, and to update it at least every ten years.  The SWAP focuses on the animal and plant species of greatest conservation need for the state and on the actions proposed to conserve those species. DFW completed the last SWAP in 2005.

We welcome any comment on the draft of 2015 SWAP.  We are particularly interested in comments on the following:

• The list of species of greatest conservation need (found in chapter 3).  Are there species that should be added to or dropped from this list?
• The habitats of the SWAP species and the threats to those habitats (found in chapter 4).
• Proposed conservation actions, both for each habitat (in chapter 4) and statewide (in chapter 5).  Are there other actions that should be added?  Are there proposed actions that should be dropped?
• Is your conservation organization completing or planning conservation actions or monitoring efforts (chapter 6)? If we didn’t mention your efforts, please tell us; conserving the biodiversity of the Commonwealth cannot be accomplished by DFW alone – it will take all of us together.

Submit your comments to John O’Leary, Asst. Director of Wildlife at:

John.Oleary@state.ma.us

OR

SWAP
DFW Field Headquarters, 1 Rabbit Hill Rd.
Westborough, MA 01581

Please include your name, address, and phone number or email address, so we can contact you if we have any questions.  If your comments represent the views of an organization, agency, or municipality, please include that information as well.

Three informational meetings are planned to present the draft SWAP:

• July 8, 2015, 6:00- 8:30 P.M., in the University of Massachusetts Cranberry Station, 1 State Bog Rd., East Wareham, MA 02538
• July 14, 2015, 10:00 A.M.- noon, at the DFW Western District Office, 88 Old Windsor Rd., Dalton, MA 01226
• July 18, 2015, from 10:00 A.M. - noon, at the DFW Field Headquarters, 1 Rabbit Hill Rd., Westborough, MA 01581

Thank you for your interest and your comments!
Source: Mass. DEM. Media Press Release

Maine: Note to anglers: New striped bass regulations in effect !

 Posted by Wayne G. Barber

             Use circle hooks for live bait, be aware of the new 28-inch minimum.

Adam Martins at Fishermans Park

    Our readers — both conservationists with the health of fish stocks in mind — also took the time to urge anglers to reduce their impact on stripers.
Jeremy Antworth passed along a link to new striper regulations that went into effect in May, and which outlaw some of the techniques that were previously used.
“Mainers targeting stripers must now remove one of the treble hooks from all their lures, if using a plug with three trebles, for example,” Antworth wrote. “I recommend removing the middle hook, as they typically hit the head of the lure.”
    Both Antworth and Fred Kircheis — a fisheries biologist who served as executive director of the Maine Atlantic Salmon Commission — stressed that a returning run of fish in the Penobscot doesn’t mean the species is thriving.
   Instead, they say stripers still need our help. To that end, another new state regulation has protected more fish.
  

Adam Martins at Fishermans Park

  “It is nice to see stripers back in the Penobscot and that anglers are beginning to be attracted to them,” Kircheis wrote in an email. “You should perhaps have mentioned that the new [Maine Department of Marine Resources] regulations on stripers required a 28-inch minimum length, which is a departure from the slot limit that we used to operate under.”
   Under the new rule, an angler can keep one fish per day, provided that the fish is longer than 28 inches.
  Another major rule change: Anglers using live bait, like blood worms, are no longer allowed to use treble hooks at all. Instead, they are required to use a non-offset circle hook when using live bait.
That circle-hook regulation — which is designed to reduce the number of fish that are deeply hooked and injured or killed — is particularly important to Antworth.
   “I am praying they enforce this and [that] you help to get word out to protect these great fish,” Antworth wrote. “I consider them a true heritage fish and obviously I love them so much more than a fish meal.”
 
    Kircheis also said anglers could do more to avoid injuring fish by adjusting their fishing methods.“You might also mention that angling for sub-legal fish (which the vast majority of stripers in the Penobscot are) with live bait, including worms, has the potential of injuring, and perhaps killing, a significant number of fish being handled,
  ” Kircheis wrote. “Fishing with lures carries a much lower mortality rate among released fish.”
                      Source: BDN Maine, John Holyoke and photos by Dominique Hessert.

Ten Mile River Project Welcomes More Herring

Posted by Wayne G. Barber
  

A  ribbon-cutting ceremony recently celebrated the completion of the Ten Mile River Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Project, designed to restore river herring to the watershed and provide river connectivity for other fish species.
The June 19 event took place at the Hunt’s Mill Dam historic site, one of the three dams where fish ladders were built along the river. The 56-square-mile Ten Mile River watershed originates in Massachusetts, crosses into Rhode Island, flows through East Providence and then enters the Seekonk River — one of the headwaters of Narragansett Bay — at Omega Pond Dam.
  The project was built in two phases. Construction of fish passages at Turner Reservoir and Hunt’s Mill Dams began in unison and finished in September 2012. The Omega Pond Dam started later and was completed in April 2015.
   The 4-foot-wide fish ladders are concrete waterways with wooden baffles that allow fish to swim to their natural spawning habitat. Migrant slots also were cut into the existing spillways at Omega Pond and Turner Reservoir to facilitate downstream migration of juvenile fish. A fish trap was installed at Hunt’s Mill Dam to relocate excess fish to other watersheds.
  The restoration project provides access to more than 340 acres of spawning and nursery habitat, and about 3 miles of riverine spawning habitat for river herring.  Based on Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) projections, these habitat areas have the potential to support a fish run of more than 200,000 river herring.

   Historically, the Ten Mile River, along with the Blackstone and Pawtuxet rivers, all hosted large runs of anadromous fish — fish that live as adults in salt water, but spawn in the fresh waters where they were born. After dams were constructed, these fish runs dwindled greatly. Each dam created a new obstacle for the returning fish and as a result, by World War II, many of Narragansett Bay’s largest fish runs were barely a memory.
  Ten Mile River in East Providence was dammed at its mouth early in the 20th century to create Omega Pond, an industrial water supply. Thanks to the efforts of local fishermen, however, remnants of the original fish runs have remained intact. Every spring, adult river herring have returned to the base of the dam, and local fishermen and volunteers from the Ten Mile River Watershed Council and the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association have caught them and hauled them over the dam to spawn in the waters of Omega Pond.
   The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries and the Middleboro-Lakeville Herring Fishery Commission also have led critical stocking efforts in the upper regions of the watershed, which helped sustain fish populations throughout the years in both states.
  DEM currently manages 21 fish runs, and the state agency is working with various partners on other proposed anadromous habitat restoration projects on the Pawtuxet, Woonasquatucket and Pawcatuck rivers. River herring are an essential part of Rhode Island’s ecosystem and their protection is important to the natural resource landscape of the state, according to state officials.
  The Ten Mile River project brought together a diverse community that included the Army Corps of Engineers, DEM, the R.I. Coastal Resources Management Council, the city of East Providence, EPA, NOAA, Ten Mile River Watershed Council and Save The Bay.
  The total project cost is nearly $9 million, including real-estate credits and work in kind. Federal funding paid for about 65 percent of the cost.Source: ECO/RI News

2015 NH Moose Permit Auction Now Open!

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

The Wildlife Heritage Foundation of New Hampshire announces the launch of the 2015 NH Moose Permit Auction, its primary fundraiser to support the programs of the N.H. Fish and Game Department. Official bid guidelines and documents can be found on the Foundation's website at http://www.nhwildlifeheritage.org or call 603-496-2778. Sealed bids are due by August 6, 2015.

2015 marks the seventh annual auction run by the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of New Hampshire. For the second year in a row, the Foundation is authorized to auction only two permits, due to the impact of ticks on the moose population and Fish and Game's reduction in the number of moose hunt permits.

The two highest bidders in the auction will receive 2015 N.H. hunting licenses, as well as 2015 N.H. moose hunting licenses. In case of a tying bid, the earliest postmarked signed bid will prevail. Successful bidders in the 2015 auction will be able to harvest one moose of either sex in a Wildlife Management Unit of their choice.

Proceeds from the auction help support critical fish and wildlife conservation initiatives and education programs of the N.H. Fish and Game Department, such as Barry Conservation Camp, Owl Brook Hunter Education Center, Law Enforcement's Canine Unit and Dive Team, the Great Bay Discovery Center, Operation Game Thief, Karner blue butterfly restoration, aerial stocking of remote ponds, Operation Land Share, Wildlife Recreation Access Program, and Wildlife Management Area signs and kiosks.

Foundation Chairman Steve White states, "Every year, the auction provides the Foundation with a way to support Fish and Game programs. For the youth of New Hampshire, who are the future stewards of our natural environment, it is critical we find ways to sustain wildlife conservation, education and outreach programs."

Last year, the auction garnered seven bids from five states, with the highest bid at $12,000. Winners came from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New York, Wisconsin and Washington. "Receiving bids from five states continues to speak to how hunters view the quality of the hunting experience here in New Hampshire," said White.

A portion of a winning bid may be tax deductible as a charitable donation; potential bidders should check with their tax advisors to determine eligibility. Individuals who received a permit in the 2015 New Hampshire moose hunt lottery are subject to the rules of the lottery, and are not eligible to participate in the auction.

Additional information on moose hunting in New Hampshire, including rules, licenses and a gallery of photos from successful N.H. hunts, can be found at http://www.huntnh.com/hunting/moose.html.Since its establishment in 2006, the Wildlife Foundation of New Hampshire has supported many Fish and Game projects through grants, donations and sponsorships. The Foundation accepts tax-deductible donations throughout the year from individuals as well as institutions. To learn more about the Foundation and how you can help preserve New Hampshire's outdoor gifts, visit http://www.nhwildlifeheritage.org or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/wildlifeheritagenh.



CONTACT: Gail Huntting, Wildlife Heritage Foundation of New Hampshire
(603) 496-2778; admin@nhwildlifeheritage.org       

NH Unit L And M Antlerless Deer Permits Available Soon

               Posted by Wayne G. Barber
    Hunters who want the chance to take additional antlerless deer in Wildlife Management Units L and M in southeastern New Hampshire during the fall hunting seasons will soon be able to buy special permits from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. Special permits for Units L and M will be available online and at Fish and Game headquarters in Concord after 9:00 a.m. on July 1, 2015.

Again this year, a total of up to 4,000 hunters will be allowed to purchase Special Antlerless Deer Permits for Unit M. All Unit M permits will come with 2 deer tags at a cost of $26. This change was made last year in an attempt to increase harvest rates in WMU M without increasing hunter density and potential safety concerns.

A total of up to 500 hunters will also be allowed to purchase Special Antlerless Deer Permits for Unit L. These permits will all come with 1 deer tag at a cost of $13.

After 9:00 a.m. on July 1, interested hunters can purchase permits:

• Online at http://www.nhfishandgame.com;
• In person at Fish and Game headquarters in Concord;
• By mail - print a mail-in application from the Fish and Game website at:
o Unit M Permits - http://www.huntnh.com/hunting/deer-um-permits.html
o Unit L Permits: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/hunting/deer-ul-permits.html
• Or call 603-271-3422 to request permit applications by mail.

Hunters can purchase either an L or M permit or both. Both permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and cost $26 for an M permit (2 tags) or $13 for an L permit (1 tag). Applicants also must hold a current New Hampshire hunting or archery license. Note that there is an additional transaction charge of $2 for Unit M and/or Unit L permit purchases at Fish and Game headquarters, or $3 for online purchases.

Archery, muzzleloader and firearms hunters may use these special permits on any day during those seasons for which they are legally licensed. Youth hunters are eligible to buy Unit L and/or M permits.Special Unit M permits have been issued in New Hampshire since 1997. This will be the second year Special Unit L permits have been made available. These permits reflect a long-term objective, outlined in the state's Big Game Management Plan, to reduce deer numbers in southeastern New Hampshire in order to sustain regional herd health and to minimize deer-human conflicts, such as vehicle collisions and destructive browsing of agricultural and ornamental plants. High human densities and associated levels of development in southeastern New Hampshire result in greater potential for deer-human conflicts and complicate deer population control efforts.

Links to more information about Unit M and L permits, and other deer hunting opportunities in New Hampshire, can be found at http://www.huntnh.com/hunting/deer.html.

CONTACT:
Dan Bergeron, Wildlife: (603) 271-2461
Sue Perry, Licensing: (603) 271-2743
Jane Vachon: (603) 271-3211       

Connecticut Fishing Report Fresh and Salt Water 6-25-15

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing is reported as good to very good. Places to try include Mashapaug Lake, Colebrook Reservoir, Congamond Lakes, Lake Saltonstall, Lake McDonough, Highland Lake, Winchester Lake, Bantam Lake, Candlewood Lake, Lake Wononskopomuc, Batterson Park Pond, Black Pond (Meriden), Lake Lillinonah, Breakneck Pond (great hike in location), Griggs Pond, Lake Waramaug, West Hill Pond, Park Pond, Crystal Lake (Ellington), Gardner Lake, Moodus Reservoir, Still Water Pond, Winchester Lake, Squantz Pond, Maltby Lake 2 & 3, Wood Creek Pond, Pachaug Pond, Ball Pond, Quonnipaug Lake, Silver Lake (Meriden) and Halls Pond. Tournament angler reports are from Ashland Pond (excellent with a 5.5 lb lunker), Aspinook Pond (fair to good, with a 3.52 lb lunker), East Twin Lake (fair fishing), Pattagansett Lake (good fishing, average of 2 lbs per fish for one club, 4.90 lunker).

SMALLMOUTH BASS are reported at Mashapaug Lake, Lake McDonough, Highland Lake, Bantam Lake, Candlewood Lake, Lake Lillinonah, Naugatuck River, Housatonic River and Gardner Lake. Tournament angler reports are from CT River (a few caught, 2.76 lunker), East Twin Lake (not much action).

NORTHERN PIKE fishing is reported to be good in Winchester Lake, Bantam Lake (fish to 30”) and Upper Housatonic River

KOKANEE are being caught at East Twin Lake (18’+) and West Hill Pond (3 colors). Beads, Mooselook Wobblers, DB Smelt, Flash King lures (blue & silver) are producing. Try fishing corn over lights at nights.

WALLEYE
are being reported from Batterson Park Pond, Squantz Pond and Lake Saltonstall.

TROUT-LAKES & PONDS – There may still be a few more big trout around this week for anglers to catch. Some lakes to try include: East Twin Lake, Mashapaug Lake (riggers @ 20-25’), Colebrook Reservoir (riggers @ 25’+, Mooselook silver/blue) , Lake McDonough (7-8 colors), Valley Falls Park Pond, West Hill Pond, Highland Lake (4 colors), Beach Pond (early @ 20-25’), Long Pond (Kobra 14), Crystal Lake (Ellington; 7-8 colors, troll @ 2mph), Mohawk Pond, Beach Pond, Black Pond (Woodstock) & Bigelow Pond.

TROUT- RIVERS & STREAMS - Recent rains have increases flow levels in some of the bigger rivers and streams. In the smaller areas flows are already settling down. This season’s weather conditions have created excellent river/stream fishing conditions and provided anglers with some superb fishing. Cooler evening temperatures forecasted this weekend are keeping the day time waters cooler than normal for this time of the year. Success is being had on morning nymphing and evening dry/wet/nymph presentations. The standard lure, worms, & corn/mealworm combinations are consistently producing fish as well. Virtually every insect in the river is active and many are hatching right now. It’s “Crazy Bug Time”. With these fishing conditions, anglers can expect big fish to be caught through June.

Farmington River - Fishing continues to be very good to excellent with an angler landing a 20.5 inch brown trout. Conditions should be good for the weekend despite some showers forecasted for Saturday evening. West Branch flows are clear and moderate (currently 318 cfs at Riverton, with the Still River adding another 161 cfs). Water temperatures are in the low 60’sF.

Hatches/patterns include: Isonychia (#12-14), Vitreus [a.k.a. pale evening dun] (#16-18, from 5:00pm to dark), Tan Caddis (#16-18, good all day), Sulfurs, (Invaria #16-18, hatches mid-day and Dorothea #16-18). The fish show a preference for the males (#18). Successful patterns include: Light Cahill (#10-14), March Brown nymphs (#10-12), Gray Fox (#14, afternoon), Blue Wing Olives (#18-24, mid-late afternoon), Caddis (tan #14-18, all day; green #22-26, evening), Midges (#20-32), Blue Quill (#16-18) and Pale Evening Duns (Epeorus vitreus #16-18, afternoon and early evenings).

Housatonic River - Conditions have improved and should be fair to good for the weekend. Water clarity is stained but levels are dropping and beginning to clear. Water temperatures are currently in the high 60’s with 1,810 cfs at Falls Village and 2,690 cfs at Gaylordsville.

Hatches/patterns: Major insect hatches are here and are providing excellent fly fishing. Alder/Zebra Caddis (#8-10)

 Additional bugs include the Sulphurs (#14-18, evening), Blue Wing Olive (#16-18, cloudy days, early morning; spinner fall in evening), Isonychia (#10-12 late afternoon & evening, just starting), Light Cahill (#12-14, evenings), Adams (#12-16, evening), March Brown (#10-12, afternoon) and Gray Foxes (#14-16). Black Caddis, Green caddis (#16-18, early morning & evening) are on the water. Midges and early golden stoneflies (#6-10) are also being seen at the mouths of tributaries.

Anglers are reminded that the thermal refuge areas on the Housatonic, Naugatuck and Shetucket Rivers are now closed to fishing (as of June 15). These areas will reopen on September 15. There is no fishing within 100 feet of signs indicating such closure at or near the mouths of tributaries to these rivers.

CONNECTICUT RIVER

Top water catches of STRIPED BASS in the lower river continue with some fish good size coming to net. Multiple catches are occurring for some exciting catches. Anglers in the Middletown area have been catching CATFISH in the holes.

  CARP are being caught the Harbor Park area.

 

  SMALLMOUTH BASS are putting on a good show in the northern part of the River. Try top water plugs and 4”, Mr. Twisters, Wacky Style salted worms in motor oil or chartreuse for these feisty jumpers.

NOTES & NOTICES:

BASHAN LAKE (drawdown) A drawdown of Bashan Lake for dam repairs is ongoing. Bashan Lake is drawn down approximately 14-16 feet. Additionally, the state boat launch is closed for renovations.

CANDLEWOOD LAKE (fireworks display) The annual fireworks display is scheduled for Saturday evening, June 27, in the Danbury Arm.

CONNECTICUT RIVER (Windsor). An Antique Outboard Motor Club, Inc. Club will be conducting a meet to display and run boats and antique outboard motors at the Bissell Bridge state boat launch on the Connecticut River on Saturday, June 27, from 9 am to 4 pm. Although the event will be conducted from the state boat launch, room will be available to the general public to park and launch. Boaters should however use additional caution on the river near the launch.

COVENTRY LAKE. Triathlon training will be conducted from 7:00 am to 9:00 am on Saturday, June 27^th. The course will run from Patriots Park to the island at the northwestern end of the lake. Boaters should use additional caution on the lake.

MARINE FISHING REPORT

 
STRIPED BASS fishing continues to impress…with some large “cow” stripers being caught by anglers using live or chunk Menhaden (bunker). Folks are starting to do well with bucktails and diamond jigs for stripers on the larger reefs at the beginning and end of the tides. Finding the schools are a challenge but if found most are being rewarded…. The usual striper spots include the Watch Hill reefs, lower Thames River, the Race, Plum Gut, Pigeon Rip, outer Bartlett Reef, Black Point, Hatchett Reef, lower Connecticut River (Great Island), Long Sand Shoal, Cornfield Point, Southwest Reef (outer), Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, the reefs off Branford, New Haven Harbor (including Sandy Point), Charles Island area, Housatonic River, buoys 18 and 20 off Stratford Point, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground, Penfield Reef, around the Norwalk Islands, Cable and Anchor Reef, and the Cows off Stamford.

BLUEFISH fishing is slow. Early morning and evening times are best especially for some top-water fishing action. Bluefish spots include the Race, Sluicway, Plum Gut, Pigeon Rip, Long Sand Shoal, Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, New Haven Harbor, buoys 18 and 20 off Stratford Point, Stratford Shoal/Middleground, Penfield Reef, and Cable and Anchor Reef. SNAPPERS will soon arrive in the tidal creeks and rivers.

SUMMER FLOUNDER (fluke) fishing remains fair to good. Anglers targeting fluke report that skates, sea robins, and dogfish appear to be in plentiful supply. Fluke spots include the typical locations: south shore of Fishers Island (Isabella Beach, Wilderness Point), Napatree Point and along the beach, off the Stonington breakwater, mouth of the Mystic River to Groton Long Point, Thames River channel, Twotree Island Channel, Black Point/Niantic Bay/River, Long Sand Shoal, Westbrook-Clinton area, Falkner Island area, New Haven Harbor including by the breakwaters, off the mouth of the Housatonic River, Bridgeport harbor and around the

Norwalk Islands. Pink and green teasers seem to be producing best. The traditional “fluke sandwich” (long squid strip and spearing) is working as well as mackerel strips….

Minimum size is 18 inches and the daily creel limit is 5 fish per person. Note: New York has the same summer flounder regulations as Connecticut. However, Rhode Island is already open with an 18 inch minimum length and an 8 fish daily creel limit. Since Rhode Island has a higher daily creel limit than Connecticut and New York please make sure you abide by the state with the most restrictive regulation when crossing (by boat) state boundaries.

SCUP (porgy) fishing is improving…with “Reef Slammers” measuring 10-17 inches (“hubcap size”) in length still being reported at every fishing pier, reef or rock pile. Try Gardners Island, Milford (Charles Island), Montauk and Niantic (Bartletts Reef). Porgy fishing has also been reported at these very accessible shore fishing locations: Calf Pasture beach, Jennings and Penfield beach, Seaside Park, Rocky Neck State Park, Meigs Point Hammonassett State Park and Fort Trumbull State Park. Locate your favorite Enhanced Shore Fishing Opportunities for these excellent eating “Reef Slammers”. These “Panfish of the Sea” are easily caught on sandworms/cut squid/conch or any other small piece of bait. Contact your local bait and tackleshop for updated fishing information (see page 14 of the 2015 CT Angler’s Guide).

BLACK SEA BASS fishing is short of awesome. The hot spot continues to be Falkner Island. Fishing over deep water structure in 80 to 120 ft around slack tide will produce some trophy-sized “humpbacks”. Fish shallower and you will catch plenty of keeper-sized sea bass. Angler’s reporting “shorts” everywhere…including on sand flats/shoals. It’s important to continue to move from structure to structure and fish around slack tide to find these beautiful and awesome eating fish. Remember, CT black sea bass regulations are as follows…14 inch min. length, 3 fish daily limit from June 1st to August 31 and a five fish daily limit from September 1 to December 31st. Berkley Gulp (swimming mullet) on a spro jig and also squid with a spinner works great for these “Bucketmouths”.

BLACKFISH (TAUTOG) fishing season reopens July 1 in Connecticut waters. The daily creel limit is 2 fish per person and the minimum size is 16 inches. Anglers please note: CTDEEP and Marine Fishing Clubs have been tagging blackfish with yellow American Littoral Society Tags to determine their movements and growth rates. This critical information will help us understand and manage this important resident species. Please record Tag Number, Location (Lat/Long), Length and weight of Blackfish and Date of Capture. www.littoralsociety.org 18 Hartshorne Dr., Ste.1, Highlands New Jersey 07732. Thank you very much for your cooperation and participating in Marine Fisheries Management.

STRIPED SEA ROBIN fishing is very good. “Poor-Man’s Lobster” are found wherever one is fishing for summer flounder (fluke) or sea bass (bottom fishing). With fish measuring over 20 inches and “barking up a storm” (grunting noise). West Haven sand bar and your favorite local beach have been producing for shore anglers. They love sandworms and squid.

HICKORY SHAD fishing is fair in the Black Hall River, lower Connecticut River by the DEEP Marine Headquarters fishing pier, Clinton Harbor and the lower Housatonic River.

WHITE PERCH fishing is good for this species which is closely related to striped bass. Perch are found in most of the tidal rivers and coves along the Connecticut shoreline. Productive spots include the Pawcatuck River, Mystic River, Thames River, upper Niantic River, lower Connecticut River (DEEP Marine Headquarters fishing pier), Black Hall River, Lieutenant River, North/South Cove and Hamburg Cove. Grass Shrimp and a small piece of sandworm fished on the bottom are the keys to success. Another trophy 13.5 inch, 2 pound white perch was caught at Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme on a sandworm this past weekend under the railroad bridges.

Jonah Crab

BLUE CRAB fishing is improving in the tidal creeks. All sizes of crabs continue to be found…a good sign for the upcoming summer months of crabbing. There have been some very large “jimmies” (male crab with its T-Shaped apron) reported (seven inch carapace width) in lower tidal creeks and rivers. The “Sooks” (mature female crab) will soon be following. Remember…all egg bearing females must be released with unavoidable harm. Min. carapace length is 5 inches for a hard shell crab. Looks to be a very good crabbing season...contact your local bait and tackle shop for update information, crab traps and bait.

SHARK SPECIES YOU MAY ENCOUNTER IN COASTAL WATERS OF CONNECTICUT: Sand Tiger and Sandbar (Brown) Shark are protected and prohibited species and must be released unharmed. IF YOU DON’T KNOW, PLEASE LET IT GO! Please visit the NMFS coastal shark information page for more information.

NOTABLE CATCHES:

• SUMMER FLOUNDER, 7.75 LBS, 29”, CLINTON - GEORGE MICHAEL WHITE.
• Source Connecticut DEEP Media Press Release

  
 

Vermont Adds Nine Species to Threatened and Endangered List

Rusty Patched Bumble Bee, Photo by Johanna James Heinz

Posted by Wayne G. Barber
  


The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources recently added nine species to the list of state threatened and endangered species.  The listing included four plants, three bumble bees, one amphibian, and one bird.

 

Three pollinators were listed - the rusty-patched bumble bee, yellow-banded bumble bee, and Ashton cuckoo bumble bee.  Pollinators such as bees, moths, and butterflies are critically important to Vermont’s agriculture, but many are in decline nationwide.  According to a survey by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, beekeepers reported losing 42 percent of their honeybee colonies between April 2014 and April 2015. 

 

Vermont’s bumble bee species appear to be in decline due to a parasite infestation.  Another concern for pollinator conservation is the widespread use of a group of systemic insecticides referred to as ‘neonicotinoids.’  These pesticides are used on agricultural crops, and are also used in concentrated doses on home gardens, lawns, and ornamental trees.  Several types of neonicotinoids are highly toxic to bees, in addition to making them more susceptible to parasites and pathogens.  The federal Environmental Protection Agency is currently considering legislation that would limit the use of these chemicals.

“Pollinators are essential to our farms and also to our meadows and wild orchards,” said Deb Markowitz, Secretary of the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources.  “Adding them to the endangered species list is only one of many steps we can take to help protect them. Additional techniques, such as integrated pest management and planting more native flowering plants, are others.”

 

The bumble bee listings do not come with restrictions against currently legal activities such as applying pesticides in accordance with state and federal regulations, although the Secretary may notify a landowner that a permit is required in cases where one of these bumble bee species is likely present.  More information on pollinators, including a list of pesticides for homeowners to avoid, is available on The Xerces Society’s website at www.xerces.org.

 

In addition to pollinators, the Fowler’s toad and rusty blackbird were listed as endangered in Vermont. 

 

Fowlers Toad

The Fowler’s toad is dependent on scoured sand banks along the Connecticut River, a limited habitat type in Vermont, and has always been extremely rare in Vermont.  However, the toad had been detected in the state with infrequent regularity until 2007 when the toad was last heard.

 

Rusty blackbird populations have declined regionally by more than 90 percent during the past five decades, according to the North American Breeding Bird Survey.  Vermont is at the southern edge of the bird’s boreal forest breeding habitat.

Four plant species were also listed as endangered in Vermont. These include the dwarf birch, tulip tree, whorled milkweed, and green mountain quillwort.  These plants were previously not thought to exist in the wild in Vermont, but single specimens or single populations of all four species were found recently in the state.  

 

“While we are delighted to have located these rare species, their endangered status reminds us that many of these plants can only survive where there is habitat to support them,” said Markowitz.  “We are fortunate in our state that Vermonters value the bees, birds, and plants that enrich our experience of nature and have worked to conserve lands so that future generations might enjoy them as well. It is critical that we continue to protect not only endangered species but the places where they thrive.”

 

Vermont currently has 51 state threatened and endangered animals, and 163 state threatened and endangered plants.  Three well-known birds were removed from the list in 2005 –the peregrine falcon, osprey, and common loon –following the birds’ recovery as a result of conservation efforts.

Source: Vermont DEM Media Press Release

 

New Hampshire Lakes Region Fishing Report 6-24-15

Posted by Wayne G. Barber
  The big lakes have seen a ton of rain the last few days and the water is a bit cloudy. Rainbow trout fishing has been good, especially Lake Winnipesaukee.  Fish are anywhere from surface (at early light) down to the 20-25 foot depths.  Landlocked salmon are in the same depth zone, even a bit deeper, 30-35 feet.  I still like to fish with a sinking fly line (trolling line 50 yards long) and this gets my flies down 20 feet.  I use a 20 foot leader with a small barrel swivel 5 feet in front of the fly.  I just hate to switch over to lead core and downriggers, but that time is coming soon.

Rivers and streams are still being stocked in the White Mountains, and flows are great for this time of year.  Ditto for trout ponds.  They are producing well right now, with a number of hatches occurring, mostly mayflies, but I have seen black caddis starting to appear on Lake Winnisquam recently.  Speaking of Winnisquam, I “ran into” a school of adult herring (alewives) this past weekend, as I was snorkeling by my camp.  Quite a sight to see, about 30 herring, moving in synchrony, 10-12 inches long!  They are the adults that fellow biologist’s Matt Carpenter and Ben Nugent recently stocked in the lake.  Now I just have to wait until the juveniles are big enough to become prey for salmon and rainbow trout!  These post-spawn fish are preparing to head back down to the ocean via the Winnipesaukee and Merrimack Rivers along with their offspring.

Smallmouth bass are generally off their nests now. While they might not be at the nest, if they haven’t been caught, they are generally in the area guarding the black fry.  I try to fish away from nests even if a bass is not apparent.

I’ve enjoyed writing fish reports these many years, and after 38 years with New Hampshire Fish and Game, I’ll be hanging up my work hat for good next week and going fishing! -- Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist    Source: Donald Miller NH DEM Media Press Release

 P.S. I will have Donald Miller as a call in guest on the award winning "Outdoor Scene" on WNRI.COM on Sunday 6-28-15 at about 9:15am.waynewnri@yahoo.com with any questions or congratulations to Don.

You can E-Mail from now and during the broadcast at
waynewnri@yahoo.com

Block Island Rhode Island Fishing Report 6-24-15

         Posted by Wayne G. Barber
   

Ray, with a 48 inch Striper
photo by Buzzards Bay Outfitters

The shore based angling scene is picking up, with more and more catch reports surfacing from around the island. The early season hotspots of the Coast Guard Channel and Charleston Beach are still producing with moderate numbers and some larger 20-pound class stripers have been reported and weighed in. Getting lucky at these spots, however, has more to do with getting a parking spot than it has to do with catching fish. Catching fish at light change in these areas pretty much requires just a simple, slender profile lure, be it a sluggo, SP Minnow, or most effective, a fly. The fish are there.
For those anglers equipped to handle the more challenging surf zone areas of the island, they are seeing their rods bend with mid-teen class weighted bass and a few fish in the mid- to upper-20 pound class. Night time is the right time! Swimming lures, such as Bombers and SP Minnows, are seducing the best fish to bite. Reports have come in to us here from every side of the island, be it the North rip, down through Clayhead, to the South East light and around through Black Rock, and all the way back up the west side from the red can at Southwest Point to the dump. The primary adversity of angling from shore on Block Island is the wind. If the wind is fishable, and allows for good presentation, one's angling efforts are more often being rewarded with quality bass.
For those new to the night fishing game, a valuable piece of advice is to acquire a headlamp or flashlight that has either red or green color modes. These modes do not affect night vision. White light however, at even the dimmest brightness, will cause an eye acclimated to the dark many minutes to readjust to seeing in the dark. If arriving at a spot after sunset and full dark in a vehicle, allow your eyes a few minutes to adjust in total darkness. Then get comfortable using the colored light to operate. This not only helps you to see in the periphery of your light source better, it also is more courteous to other anglers already fishing and acclimated to the dark. There is nothing more disconcerting than to be in a spot fishing, and have a newcomer walk up and shine a white light in your eyes! Regardless of how light may or may not affect the fish, white light shining in other anglers’ eyes, certainly negatively affects their angling experience.

Tourney recap

  The inaugural Striper Kings catch and release striped bass tourney, sponsored by Newport Storm, ran June 12 to June 14 and featured teams from around New England, pitting some of the sports best sharpshooters against each other in the 42-hour event. Ten teams were issued custom rulers and were required to catch, measure, photograph, and release their bass. Live updates via social media were posted throughout the weekend to keep teams informed on the fish to beat. Not 30 minutes into the tourney, the first 36-inch fish was tallied — with several fish following that were up to 42 inches in length. The bite was on! At 7:06 p.m., one hour in, the bar was set real high by Buzzards Bay Outfitters when they released an impressive 48-inch fish! The teams definitely had their work cut out for them. At the 3 a.m. mark on Sunday, Dave Cunningham’s team, Doc Holiday, nearly dethroned the leader with a 46-inch beauty leaving the Buzzards Bay Boys a little rattled with the close call. On the beach Hank Allen posted a 37-incher, all around a solid fish from the beach this time of year, but he was bested by Mark Mollicone’s 42-inch fish — a nice reward for 24 hours of night fishing time put in. At the closing of the tourney, teams met at Yellow Kittens to crown Buzzards Bay Outfitters and team Fish Block Island, the first Striper Kings. Source: Hank Hewitt and Capt. Chris Wills

American Shooting Journal Cover July Issue

Shyanne Roberts

Posted by Wayne G.Barber, Shayanne was a great guest caller on the "Outdoor Scene" and we will have her back on a future episode, Enjoy your Summer Shyanne ! Wayne

I am sooooooo blessed smile emoticon Just found out I could tell everyone, Im on the cover of the patriotic July issue of American Shooting Journal !!! There's a whole article inside, including my friend Cheyenne Dalton - Competitive shooter about the next generation of shooters. Watch out, the Cheyenne's/Shyanne's are taking over the World ! LOL. American Shooting Journal is having a special... with this issue, one year subscription for 17.76 get it ? 1776 :):) Hits newstands in a week or two. HUGE thanks to Oleg Volk for taking such incredible pictures.

Rieger, Papalia Win Masters Walleye Qualifier on Kinzua Reservoir ,Penn.

                  

           Posted by Wayne G. Barber
Bradford, Penn.—Pennsylvania's Ryan Rieger and Joe Papalia sacked a two-day, 10-fish limit weighing 15 pounds, 6 ounces to win the Cabela's Masters Walleye Circuit's Kinzua Reservoir qualifying tournament presented by Zippo Outdoors June 19-20.
 "It's an amazing feeling," Rieger, of Belle Vernon, said of his first MWC victory. The win was worth over $13,000 to the pair including, $7,400 in cash along with the $1,000 Ranger Cup contingency and $200 Okuma bonus. He and Papalia, of Warren, also pocketed $2,520 in cash from the option pot, and a $1,000 Cabela's National Team Championship Prize Package, including paid entry into the 2016 NTC, travel stipend, team jerseys and plaques.
   Because all 2015 Cabela's MWC tournaments are designated as "State Championship Qualifying Events," Rieger and Papalia also earned the title of Pennsylvania State Walleye Champions. Besides Keystone bragging rights, they claimed a $1,000 prize package including custom trophies, custom State Champions rings by Tight Lines Jewelry, a berth in the Cabela's NTC, decals and a spot on the MWC website's Wall of Fame.
   Rieger and Papalia primarily pulled slow death-style nightcrawler rigs along the tops and edges of offshore humps in 10 to 23 feet of water on day one for a 7-pound, 1-ounce total. They added Berkley Flicker Shads to the program on day two and put 8 pounds, 5 ounces in the basket.
  "This is the greatest thing ever," grinned Papalia after the weigh-in. "It was a grind because inconsistent weather made the bite challenging, but all of our efforts paid off."

Rounding out the top five were:
2nd: Mike Maholic, Scott Hotelling, 13-09, $3,800 cash
3rd: Dewayne Cawley, Steve Colley, 13-03 $2,500 cash plus $1,680 from the option pot
4th: Dan Johnson, Larry Rhoads, 11-11, $2,000 cash
5th: Glenn and Matthew Boser, 11-11, $1,600 cashBig-fish honors and the $200 Zippo Hot Hand
Award went to Terry Zampogna and Toney Avenali for a 6-pound, 7-ounce walleye. In 7th place, Jesse and Dylan Nussbaum collected the $500 Lowrance Electronics contingency. In all, the Cabela's MWC awarded a payback of $33,540 in cash and prizes.
  Weigh-ins were held at the Richard E. & Ruth McDowell Sport & Fitness Center Arena. The 47-team field brought a total of 210 walleyes weighing 300 pounds, 14 ounces to the scales during the event, including 18 five-fish daily limits. The Cabela's MWC, National Professional Anglers Association, Pure Fishing and Zippo Outdoor Brands presented a Youth & Family Fishing Clinic immediately after the day-one weigh-in, with participating youths receiving rod-and-reel combos courtesy of the NPAA.
   Under the umbrella of The Walleye Federation (TWF), the Cabela's MWC is open to avid walleye anglers from all walks of life. The 2015 schedule spans nine states and includes 11 regular-season qualifiers plus the 2015 World Walleye Championship. Source: The Outdoor Wire Media Press Release

Trout Unlimited to Unveil 'Definitive' State of the Trout Report

                Posted by Wayne G. Barber
 On Tuesday, June 23, at 11 a.m. ET, Trout Unlimited will unveil its new report titled, "State of the Trout," the most comprehensive look at the health and viability of American trout and char populations ever compiled. Details of the report will be discussed on a media teleconference by Jack Williams, TU's senior scientist and chief author of the report, and Chris Wood, TU's president and CEO.

Trout and char across America are imperiled and face continuing threats to their long-term persistence. The report is perhaps the most extensive effort ever to detail the well-being of native trout in America. It examines the myriad threats facing our nation's coldwater fish, and the impact those threats are having today on our prized trout populations from coast to coast. In addition, it lays out a roadmap for trout and char recovery in America, an ambitious plan that, if followed and supported by anglers, state and federal agencies and elected officials, can ensure trout will be a part of our children's future.

What: Media teleconference announcing the release of the definitive report, "State of the Trout."

When: June 23, 11 a.m. ET. Representatives of the media can participate by dialing (888) 523-4162. When prompted, enter the code 71719842. You'll be asked to state your name and media affiliation, and an operator will place you into the conference.

Who: Jack Williams, Trout Unlimited senior scientist, and Chris Wood, president and CEO of Trout Unlimited.

RSVP: Please e-mail Chris Hunt, TU's national communications director, at chunt@tu.org, to confirm your attendance on this call.

NOTE: The call will begin at 11 a.m ET, sharp. After brief introduction, Wood and Williams will discuss the report, which will be available for viewing and download at the time of the call on the TU website (tu.org). There will be time for questions and discussion with Wood and Williams after their brief remarks. Source: the Outdoor Wire      

Commercial Atlantic Dolphin Harvest to Close June 24

       Posted by Wayne G. Barber
The commercial harvest of Atlantic dolphin from Maine through the east coast of Florida will be closed, effective 12:01 a.m. (local time), June 24, 2015. Commercial harvest will reopen at 12:01 a.m. (local time) on January 1, 2016. Reports indicate that landings are approaching the 2015 catch limit for the commercial sector.

The operator of a vessel with a federal commercial permit for dolphin-wahoo that is landing dolphin for sale must have landed and bartered, traded, or sold such dolphin prior to 12:01 a.m. (local time), June 24, 2015. The prohibition on sale does not apply to sale or purchase of dolphin that were harvested, landed ashore, and sold prior to 12:01 a.m. (local time), June 24, 2015, and held in cold storage by a dealer or processor.

During the closure:
Harvest or possession of dolphin is limited to the recreational bag and possession limits.
Sale and purchase of dolphin is prohibited.
The closure applies in both state and federal waters.
This closure is necessary to protect the dolphin-wahoo fishery.
Source the Outdoor Wire

Connecticut Fishing Reports Fresh and Salt Water 6-19-15

Our Grand Daughter Miss Brenna Francis Barber

        Posted by Wayne G. Barber
LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing is reported as good for large mouth. Places to try include Lake McDonough, BantamLake, Lake Saltonstall, Highland Lake, Candlewood Lake, MudgePond, Cedar Lake, Shetucket River, Lower/Upper MoodusReservoir, Lake Lillinonah, Winchester Lake, Rainbow Reservoir,Pachaug Pond, Quaddick Reservoir, Wood Creek Pond, MonoPond, Congamond Lakes, Burr Pond, Lake Wononskopomuc,Hopeville Pond, Silver Lake, Batterson Park Pond, Gardner Lake,Pickerel Lake, Mashapaug Lake, Billings Lake, Maltby Lakes,Stillwater Pond, Ball Pond, Red Cedar Lake and West Hill Pond. Tournament angler reports are from Aspinook Pond (fair togood, with 3.75 lb and 3.4 lb lunkers), Beach Pond (good forlargemouth, 4.25 lb lunker), Mashapaug Lake (fair action, “nobig fish caught”, 1.99 lb lunker), Pattagansett Lake (good fishing,nice size with an average of 2 lbs per fish for one club, 4.17 lband 3.03 lb lunkers), Candlewood Lake (good for largemouth,some 4-5 lb lunkers), East Twin Lake (fair fishing, but mostly 1-lbfish), Highland Lake (good for largemouth, 3.58 lb lunker) andLake Lillinonah (not bad for largemouth, 5.3 lb lunker



My Dad George and Brother Joe 6-19-15

   CARP were reported from Mirror Lake, Squantz Pond, Lake Lillinonah and the Shetucket River.

   SMALLMOUTH BASS are reported at Mashapaug Lake, LakeMcDonough, Highland Lake, Bantam Lake and Candlewood Lake.Tournament angler reports are from Beach Pond (not manycaught), Mashapaug Lake (hard to find fish), Candlewood Lake(fair for smallmouth, lunkers around 3 lbs), East Twin Lake(tough to catch fish, but a 4.55 lb lunker), highland Lake (a fewin the bags, 2.83 lb lunker) and Lake Lillinonah (fair to good for smallmouth, 4.12 lb lunker).

   NORTHERN PIKE fishing is reported to be good in Bantam Lake (including a 34 inch pike) and Winchester Lake,fair at Pachaug Pond and tough at Quaddick Reservoir.

   KOKANEE are being caught at East Twin Lake (trolling red beads).

   WALLEYE are being reported from Batterson Park Pond, Squantz Pond and Lake Saltonstall.

      TROUT-LAKES & PONDS - It’s big fish time, anglers canexpect big trout to be caught through mid-June. Goodreports from Squantz Pond, Highland Lake (4-5 colors,silver lure at 18-20 feet), East Twin Lake (rigger at 20feet, copper/silver Mooselook, Kobra # 118; 6.5 lbsbrown trout on salmon beads, additionally, a bass anglerfishing a tournament managed to catch a 8.5 lb brown), Colebrook Reservoir (riggers at 20-23 feet, orange/copper Flash Kings), Mashapaug Lake, Crystal Lake (Kobra #2, black/white Huey, 7-8 colors), Lake Wononskopomuc (11.5 lbs brown trout on a tube jib), Stillwater Lake, Beach Pond (#18 blue minx Huey, rigger at 20 feet), Long Pond (streamer on wire at 20 feet), West Hill Pond and Lake McDonough.

    TROUT- RIVERS & STREAMS - Conditions should be fairly good for the weekend (note that some rain is in the forecast for Sunday). The rains earlier this week refreshed flows throughout the state and flows have now dropped back to very comfortable levels for fishing in most areas (see stream flow graphic on page 4) and moderate temperatures are forecast. Just about any method is putting fish in the net, with good action being found on lures, flies, worms & corn/mealworm combinations. It’s “Major Hatch Time” with just about every bug on the water (hatch times fluctuate with the water temperatureFair to good reporrts last week from the West Branch Farmington River, Farmington River, Salmon River (OK action, some good report from below the Comstock Bridge), Blackledge River, Five Mile River (Thompson-Putnam-Killingly, steady fishing reported), Hammonasset River (easy to fish with flows on the lower side with some nice fish holding out) and the Naugatuck River
  TMA.Farmington River - Fishing has been very good to excellent, and conditions should be good for the weekend. West Branch flows are clear and moderate (currently 301 cfs at Riverton, with the Still River adding another 122 cfs). Water temperatures are in the low 60’sF.Hatches/patterns include Isonychia (#12-14), Vitreus [a.k.a. pale evening dun] #16, from 5:00pm to dark, Tan Caddis (#18-22) good all day, Sulfurs, (Invaria #16 hatches mid-day and Dorothea #16-18), Light Cahill (#12-18), March Brown nymphs (#10-12, during the day), Gray Fox (#14, afternoon), Blue Quills (#16-18), Blue Wing Olives (#18-24, mid-late afternoon), Caddis (tan #18-22, all day; green #22-26, evening), Midges (#20-32) and Pale Evening Duns (Epeorus vitreus #14-16, afternoon & early evenings). March Brown, Sulphur and Rusty Spinners are falling in the evenings.

   Housatonic River - Fishing was good last week but rains earlierthis week increased flows to difficult to fish levels. Conditionsare now beginning to improve and should be fair to good forthe weekend as the river is slowly clearing and dropping(currently 1,690 cfs at Falls Village and 2,340 cfs atGaylordsville). Morning water temperatures are currently inthe mid-60’sF.Hatches/patterns:  Major insect hatches are here and areproviding excellent fly fishing. Alder/Zebra Caddis (#8-10) isunderway (should last up to 4 weeks) and will produce somegreat fishing. Alder flies are very active during hot days. Additional bugs include the Sulphurs (#14-18, evening),Blue Wing Olive (#16-18, cloudy days, early morning; spinner fall in evening), Isonychia (#10-12 late afternoon & evening, just starting), Light Cahill (#12-14, evenings), Adams (#12-16, evening), March Brown (#10-12, afternoon) and Gray Foxes (#14-16). Black Caddis, Green caddis (#16-18, early morning & evening) are on the water. Midges and early golden stoneflies (#6-10) are also being seen at the mouths of tributaries

  STRIPED BASS fishing continues to impress, with very large bass being reported (55 inches). Doesn’t matter what time of the dayy, daytime fishing under bunker schools is hot. We are transitioning to a nighttime/dawn and dusk bite. The western and central sound is the place to be. Buoy 18 (Stratford) has been a hot spot. The bass fishing will improve in the east as we speak. Legal size Porgies or trolling a Tube and Worm (red) have produced. Striper spots include the Watch Hill reefs, lower Thames River, the Race, Plum Gut, Pigeon Rip, outerBartlett Reef, Black Point (15 to 25 feet), Hatchett Reef, lower Connecticut River (Great Island to Essex), Long Sand Shoal, Cornfield Point, Southwest Reef (outer), Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, the reefs off Branford, New Haven Harbor (including Sandy Point), Charles Island area, Housatonic River, buoys 18 and 20 off Stratford Point, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground, Penfield Reef, around the Norwalk Islands, Cable and Anchor Reef, Stamford Harbor and the Cows off Stamford.
   BLUEFISH fishing is fair. Still no real consistent action for trophy “choppers” yet. Early morning and evening times are best especially for some top-water fishing action.  Try Millstone and mouth of the CT River for “Harbor Blues” (16 to 22 inches). Other bluefish spots include the Race, Sluicway, Plum Gut, Pigeon Rip, Long Sand Shoal, Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, New Haven Harbor, bouys 18 and 20 off Stratford Point, Stratford Shoal/Middleground, Penfield Reef, and Cable and Anchor Reef.  SNAPPERS will be here in 2 – 3 weeks, arrivingin the tidal creeks and rivers.
    SUMMER FLOUNDER (fluke) fishing is good and getting better with a lot of flatfish to be had. You got to spend some time getting “keepers,” there are a lot (I mean a lot) of “shorts”. A good sign for the future. The summer flounder have transitioned from feeding on squid to now feeding on mantis shrimp. LIS anglers reported fluke from 3 to 4 lbs being common, with a 12 pounder being the largest to date. Anglers targeting fluke report that searobins are extremely plentiful (bait stealers)..       Time to start fishing deeper ( 30 -70 feet).  Fluke spots include Page 4 of 72015 CT DEEP Weekly Fishing Report No. 10, 6/18/2015the typical fishy locations: Montauk (best spot), south shore of Fishers Island (Isabella Beach, Wilderness Point), Napatree Point and along the beach, off the Stonington breakwater, mouth of the Mystic River to Groton Long Point, Thames River channel, Two Tree Island Channel, Black Point/Niantic Bay/River, Off Seaside and Waterford beach, Long Sand Shoal, Westbrook-Clinton area (Clinton Harbor), Falkner Island area, West Haven to Woodmont, New Haven Harbor including by the breakwaters, off the mouth of the Housatonic River (Milford), and around the Norwalk Islands. Try drifting with a white or pink Bucktail Jig and attach a Berkely 3”- 5” Gulp (Swimming Mullet) in chartreuse, green, white or pink. Pink colored imitation squid have also been producing well…add a spinner to your fluke rig to create a flash, attracting those big flatfish.Minimum size is 18 inches and the daily creel limit is 5 fish per person.Minimum size is 18 inches and the daily creel limit is 5 fish per person. Note: New York has the same summer flounder regulations as Connecticut.  However, Rhode Island is already open with an 18 inch minimum length and an 8 fish daily creel limit. Since Rhode Island has a higher daily creel limit than Connecticut and New Yorkplease make sure you abide by the state with the most restrictive regulation when crossing (by boat) state boundaries.
   SCUP (porgy) fishing is good…with large “Reef Slammers” measuring 10-18.5 inches (“hubcap size”) in length still being reported at Gardners Island, Milford (Charles Island), Montauk and Niantic (Bartletts Reef).  Porgy fishing has also been reported at these very accessible shore fishing locations: Calf Pasture beach, Jennings andPenfield beach, Rocky Neck State Park, Meigs Point Hammonassett State Park and Fort Trumbull State Park. Locate your favorite Enhanced Shore Fishing Opportunities for these excellent eating “Reef Slammers”. These “Panfish of the Sea” are easily caught on sandworms/cut squid/conch or any other small piece of bait.  Contact your local bait and tackleshop for updated fishing information (see page 14 of the 2015 CT Angler’s Guide).
    BLACK SEA BASS fishing is really getting better. The hot spot is Falkner Island.  Fishing over deep water structure in 80 to 120 ft around slack tide will produce some trophy-sized “humpbacks”. Fish shallower and you will catch plenty of keeper-sized sea bass. Anglers are reporting “shorts” everywhere…including sand flats/shoals. It’s important to continue to move from structure to structure to find these awesome eating fish. Remember, CT black sea bass regulations are as follows…14 inch min. length, 3 fish daily limit from June 1st toAugust 31 and a five fish daily limit from September 1 to December 31st. Berkely Gulp (swimming mullet) on a jig and also squid with a spinner works great for these “Bucketmouths”
   HICKORY SHAD fishing continue to be slow after the recent rains. Few fish reported at the DEEP Marine Headquarters fishing pier.  It’s anybody’s guess as to where they go. Connecticut Tarpon (Hickory shad) can be found mixed in with schoolie striped bass, menhaden and harbor blues. Flood or Ebb tide is best and lures of choice are a willow leaf (silver), kastmaster (single hook), small plastic jigs (white or chartreuse), and or shad darts in various colors.
   WHITE PERCH fishing is good for these tasty panfish related to striped bass. Perch are found in most of the tidalrivers and coves along the Connecticut shoreline. Productive spots include the Pawcatuck River, Mystic River, Thames River, upper Niantic River, lower Connecticut River (DEEP Marine Headquarters fishing pier), Black Hall River, Lieutenant River, North/South Cove and Hamburg Cove.  Grass Shrimp and a small piece of sandworm fished on the bottom are the keys to success.  Another 14.5 inch 2.3 pound white perch was caught at Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme on a sandworm this past weekend under the railroad bridge.
  

BLUE CRAB fishing is fair in the tidal creeks. All sizes of crabs continue to be found…a good sign for the upcoming summer months of crabbing. There have been some very large “jimmies” (male crab with its T-Shaped apron) reported (eight inch carapace width) in the lower CT River. The “Sooks” (mature female crab) will soon be following. Remember…all egg bearing females must be released with unavoidable harm.  Min. carapace length is 5 inches for a hard shell crab. Looks to be a very good crabbing season.

America’s Oldest Bald Eagles Dies, Sets New Record

         
Posted by Wayne G. Barber
The oldest wild bald eagle in America has died, according to the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The agency reported that the 38-year-old male eagle—designated 03142 by researchers—was found dead alongside a road in Monroe County earlier this month. The cause of death is suspected to be a motor vehicle.
“When we banded 03142 on August 5, 1977 and had no idea how very special and significant this young bald eagle would become to our nascent bald eagle restoration program,” said retired DEC biologist Peter Nye, who once oversaw the banding of eagles like this long-lived bird. “Based on his recent recovery near this site, we have to assume he has been the resident male, breeding here for the past 34 years. That’s quite a stretch, and likely a record in itself. His longevity, 38 years, although ingloriously cut short by a motor vehicle, is also a national record for known life-span of a wild bald eagle. All I can say is, hats off too you 03142; job well done!”
The DEC said that the bird was first found as a nestling brought over from northern Minnesota in the early days of the agency’s Bald Eagle Restoration Program. At the time, 03142 was only one of a handful of young eagles in the state and was released into the Montezuma Wildlife Refuge along with four others. Over time, biologists watched on as the eagle fathered and raised young eaglets, eventually making a significant contribution to the return of bald eagles in the state.
   Newsday reported that 03142 surpassed the age of the previous oldest eagle—which died last year in Wisconsin—by more than five years. Wild eagles have an average lifespan of around 15 to 20 years, although certain individuals can live much longer. Captive eagles can live well past 30 years if given the right care.
New York once had a sizable eagle population, but the effects of DDT and other factors drove the species from the state in the 1980s. Shortly after 03142 was banded, the state’s last native breeding male was found shot dead by poachers. Over the next few years biologists would work diligently to release 198 young eagles into state forests as an attempt to restore the species.
  As of today, New York boasts 350 pairs of breeding couples and the eagle program is considered an overwhelming success.“This record eagle is a testament to the diligent conservation and restoration work done under New York’s Bald Eagle Restoration Program,” said DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner, Marc Gerstman. “This record eagle is a testament to the diligent conservation and restoration work done under New York’s Bald Eagle Restoration Program,” said DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner, Marc Gerstman. “It’s truly noteworthy that this eagle lived a long life and thrived in New York, returning to his New York nest site to continue breeding. DEC’s work to conserve habitat and ensure clean air and clean water for bald eagles and many of the other fish and wildlife is ongoing, including participation in many research programs to ensure these species continue to thrive in New York State.” Source: Daniel XU Outdoor Hub Media Press Release

Conn.DEEP DESIGNATES FATHER’S DAY, SUNDAY, JUNE 21 AS A “FREE-FISHING LICENSE DAY”

                      Posted by Wayne G. Barber
Get free one-day fishing licenses to fish on Father’s Day, take dad (and the whole family) fishing for FREE !

Miss Brenna Francis Barber

   Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has designated Father’s Day, this Sunday, June 21, as the first of two “Free Fishing License” days scheduled for 2015. A second “Free Fishing License Day” is scheduled for Saturday, August 15.To fish legally in Connecticut, anyone 16 years of age or older must obtain a fishing license. Thanks to legislation passed in 2014 (Public Act 14-201) DEEP can now designate up to two dates per year as a “Free Fishing License Day”. To fish on these days, anyone, resident or non-resident, can obtain a free one-day fishing license good for both the inland and marine districts.
    The free license to fish on this Sunday is now available and the license for August 15 will be available on July 25, three weeks prior to the second “Free Fishing License Day.” These licenses can be obtained through the DEEP online sportsmen licensing system(www.ct.gov/deep/sportsmenlicensing)
or at any venue that sells fishing licenses.
These designated “Free Fishing License” days are another of DEEP’s initiatives developed to connect people with outdoor activities and Connecticut’s natural resources. “Studies have shown that people who are hesitant about trying fishing often cite the license fee as a primary reason. The intent of each Free Fishing License Day is to encourage anyone who is considering taking up fishing, but is unwilling to make the commitment to purchase a license, to give fishing a try,” said Susan Whalen, Deputy Commissioner of DEEP. “We’re confident that as people try fishing, they’ll experience the many benefits fishing offers and will be hooked on the sport.”
 Source: CONN. DEEP.Media Press Release & Photo Wayne G. Barber