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by Jan Cox The spring and summer months bring gun club shoots to this Mountain Valley area whether you live in Westwood, Susanville, Chester, Portola, Quincy, or nearby areas. Autumn brings hunting season for utilizing the skills practiced all summer. But what about winter? If you live in a household like mine, this down time is great for preparing next year’s shells. It is a good hobby for those cold winter days. I asked my husband why he reloads shells. I thought the answer would be that by reloading shells, you can save a lot of money. But he reported that the main advantage is to get the particular load he wants. He explained that numbers 1 and also 7/8 are hard to find and that by loading his own he can use a particular shell size and create a certain velocity. What is needed to reload:
When you are reloading, there are tables in the literature that come with a reloading machine that show the amount of powder and shot to use with which type of primer. These tables are set up for different gauges (10,12, 16, 28, and for a 410) and for attaining the desired velocity. Some people reload their shells 2-3 times while others up to 5 or 6 times. By Googling “Reloading Shells”, you will find numerous articles of advice, and information on reloading your own shells. Or check out the stores in the area that carry reloading supplies and manuals. In Reno, try either Cabelas or Sheels, two major sporting good stores. Cabelas in located off I-80 at 8650 Boomtown Road, while Sheels is at the corner of 1-80 and Sparks Blvd in Sparks, NV at the Legends at Sparks Marina. Reloading supplies can also be found in some of the smaller stores found in the yellow pages or on-line by Googling “Sporting Goods Stores that carry reloading supplies.” Photo by Jan Cox — Reloading Shells
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Well, we are having a good winter. Let’s hope the snowfall is enough to fill the lake. It has a long way to go. Last year was a good fishing year. An early run on salmon started the season followed by rainbows and browns all the way up until the end of my guide season – the last of November. Now what do I do in December, January and February? In December I hunt turkey, ducks and geese. But January and February, with conditions just right and a lot of cold weather, the lake freezes in some areas and then I can ice fish. Try ice fishing for something different. Talk about fun and different, this is it!! There are a few things you need to know however. If you are fainthearted at all —- don’t read this. You have to really like fishing and be a little bit nuts— I guess that covers me. But, I’m careful, really careful, knowing the ice is crucial. I prefer 3″ or more rock hard slick ice. The thing to watch for is pressure cracks. You can hear the ice move and crack all the way across the lake. That usually indicates good ice. As long as the weather stays cold, the ice will keep freezing. Always take a long rope with you and tie off to the log boom or dock or anything else that is solid. This is your lifeline in case of an ice failure. Use an ice auger to cut a hole no bigger than 8″. Keep your rope next to you or tied to you for safety. You don’t need to go out very far, only about as far as you can cast or just a bit further. Use a short 4 ft. rod with six# line and a spinning reel. A variety of bait worms, mealworms, red & white eggs, roe and yellow and white small 1/16 oz jigs. Fish about 2-3 ft. off the bottom. Note: Fish bite short in the cold water, so the best thing to do is let them have the bait well before you set the hook. Fish bite all day long as schools pass by. Along the East Shore the wind blows and doesn’t let the ice freeze solidly. Be careful of snow on the ice, for this covers up the thin ice. The best thing to do is use you head. I’ve been fishing the ice for more than 40 years and as much as I know, I just fish offshore sometimes and don’t venture out on the ice at all. You know you just get that feeling: it’s called “good common sense.” Never attempt to walk clear across the lake anytime. And when ice shifts and goes up on top of another layer it can be very dangerous. Just the other day, the ice shifted and took down a buoy — that is a sign of becoming bad ice. Places to ice fish are along the west shore and down by the dam. For the rest of the years’ fishing, I would say it’s going to be good. More fresh water and a good population of bait fish (smelt) are in the lake. Good fish plants were made in 2007. For more guiding information, give me a call at (530) 259-2051. This is my 45th year of guiding on Lake Almanor. Hope to see you soon. Good Fishing. Doug D’Angelo
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In early November, DFG delivers the 50,000 trout to Hamilton Branch where volunteers separate them into 10 submerged cages near the PG&E powerhouse. Through snow and ice, 28 Almanor Fishing Association volunteers feed the Eagle Lake Trout every day, using 15,000 pounds of food donated annually by Kokanee Power grow into the catches that bragging rights are made of. Almanor Fishing Association Treasurer, Paul Garrido, was kind enough to take MVL on a peaceful boat ride to tour the cages at Hamilton Branch. I was very impressed by the true enjoyment Mr. Garrido experiences being a part of this community active organization. He is genuinely proud of the public fishing and picnic area, also at Hamilton Branch, that was created for our enjoyment thanks to the dedication and hard work of the members of the Almanor Fishing Association. This is a favorite picnic spot for our family since it is one of the few spots with a wheelchair accessible ADA approved restroom. The association’s pride shines through in the care given to this shady, forest recreation area. rrido for the great afternoon and hats off to the volunteers for giving us 50,000 good reasons to fish Lake Almanor.
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Approved 2009 Deer Seasons – Additional Hunts
Hunt Number- Hunt Title- Tag Quota
G-1 Late Season Buck Hunt for Zone C-4 24-Oct-09 – 01-Nov-09 2,710 G-3 Goodale Buck Hunt 05-Dec-09 – 20-Dec-09 35 G-6 Kern River Deer Herd Buck Hunt 05-Dec-09 – 13-Dec-09 50 G-7 Beale Either-Sex Deer Hunt (Military Only) 15-Aug-09 – 01-Nov-09 20 Military G-8 Fort Hunter Liggett Antlerless Deer Hunt 10 Military and 10 Public G-9 Camp Roberts Antlerless Deer Hunt 31-Aug-09 – 07-Sept-09 15 Military and 15 Public G-10 Camp Pendleton Either-Sex Deer Hunt (Military Only; Hunt Day Restrictions) 05-Sept-09 – 06-Dec-09 400 Military G-11 Vandenberg Either-Sex Deer Hunt (Military and DOD* Only) 31-Aug-09 – 31-Dec-09 500 Military and DOD* G-12 Gray Lodge Shotgun Either-Sex Deer Hunt 19-Sep-09 – 27- Sept-09 30 G-13 San Diego Antlerless Deer Hunt 24-Oct-09 – 15-Nov-09 300 G-19 Sutter-Yuba Wildlife Areas Either-Sex Deer Hunt 26-Sept-09 – 31-Dec-09 25 G-21 Ventana Wilderness Buck Hunt 14-Nov-09 – 06-Dec-09 25 G-37 Anderson Flat Buck Hunt 28-Nov-09 – 06-Dec-09 25 G-38 X-10 Late Season Buck Hunt 17-Oct-09 – 01-Nov-09 300 G-39 Round Valley Late Season Buck Hunt 24-Oct-09 – 08-Nov-09 5 M-3 Doyle Muzzleloading Rifle Buck Hunt 21-Nov-09 – 29-Nov-09 20 M-4 Horse Lake Muzzleloading Rifle Buck Hunt 24-Oct-09 – 01-Nov-09 10 M-5 East Lassen Muzzleloading Rifle Buck Hunt 24-Oct-09 – 01-Nov-09 10 M-6 San Diego Muzzleloading Rifle Either-Sex Deer Hunt 19-Dec-09 – 31-Dec-09 80 M-7 Ventura Muzzleloading Rifle Either-Sex Deer Hunt 28-Nov-09 – 13-Dec-09 150 M-8 Bass Hill Muzzleloading Rifle Buck Hunt 24-Oct-09 – 01-Nov-09 20 M-9 Devil’s Garden Muzzleloading Rifle Buck Hunt 24-Oct-09 – 08-Nov-09 15 M-11 Northwestern California Muzzleloading Rifle Buck Hunt 14-Nov-09 – 29-Nov-09 20 MA-1 San Luis Obispo Muzzleloading Rifle/Archery Either-Sex Deer Hunt 28-Nov-09 – 13-Dec-09 150 MA-3 Santa Barbara Muzzleloading Rifle/Archery Buck Hunt 28-Nov-09 – 13-Dec-09 150 J-1 Lake Sonoma Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 07-Nov-09 – 08-Nov-09 25 J-3 Tehama Wildlife Area Apprentice Buck Hunt 28-Nov-09 – 29-Nov-09 15 J-4 Shasta-Trinity Apprentice Buck Hunt 28-Nov-09 – 06-Dec-09 15 J-7 Carson River Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 17-Oct-09 – 25-Oct-09 15 J-8 Daugherty Hill Wildlife Area Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 05-Dec-09 – 31-Dec-09 15 J-9 Little Dry Creek Apprentice Shotgun Either-Sex Deer Hunt 19-Sept-09 – 27-Sept-09 5 J-10 Fort Hunter Liggett Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 10 Military and 75 Public J-11 San Bernardino Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 21-Nov-09 – 29-Nov-09 40 J-12 Round Valley Apprentice Buck Hunt 05-Dec-09 – 20-Dec-09 10 J-13 Los Angeles Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 21-Nov-09 – 29-Nov-09 40 J-14 Riverside Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 21-Nov-09 – 29-Nov-09 30 J-15 Anderson Flat Apprentice Buck Hunt 28-Nov-09 – 06-Dec-09 10 J-16 Bucks Mountain/Nevada City Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 26-Sep-09 – 01-Nov-09 75 J-17 Blue Canyon Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 26-Sept-09 – 01-Nov-09 25 J-18 Pacific/Grizzly Flat Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 26-Sept-09 – 01-Nov-09 75 J-19 Zone X-7a Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 03-Oct-09 – 18-Oct-09 25 J-20 Zone X-7b Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 03-Oct-09 – 18-Oct-09 20 J-21 East Tehama Apprentice Either-Sex Deer Hunt 19-Sept-09 – 01-Nov-09 50 * DOD = Department of Defense Oct 3, 4, 10, 11, & 12-09
Season Dates
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By Carrie Wilson CA Dept. of Fish and Game Question: Answer: If you hit an animal at sundown but it doesn’t immediately go down, you should then mark the location of the hit, let the animal bleed out and recover it in the morning. You cannot take another shot that day after legal hours have passed or you will be in violation. Whenever possible, try to plan your hunt so that you will not be pushing the envelope right at the end of hunt hours and can leave ample time to track and retrieve the animal legally.
Hunters must plan their hunts to include ample time for tracking and retrieving their animal during legal shooting hours.
Carrie Wilson is a marine biologist with the California Department of Fish and Game. Her DFG-related question and answer column appears weekly at www.dfg.ca.gov/QandA. While she cannot personally answer everyone’s questions, she will select a few to answer each week. Please contact her at CalOutdoors@dfg.ca.gov.
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Question: I have a couple of questions regarding deer killed on roadways. First of all, if a deer is accidentally hit and killed on a roadway, can it be collected and utilized so as not to go to waste? Secondly, if I have a valid California hunting license and deer tag, and while coming back after dark from a day of hunting, if I accidentally hit and kill a deer on one of the back roads, how is that handled? Do I wait until morning and shoot it, or is that considered a “bag?” What are the laws pertaining to animals accidentally killed on the highways? (James M.) Answer: Photo © Carrie Wilson Road-killed wildlife may not be retained by the driver of the vehicle that hits the animal, nor anyone else associated with the accident or not. Only authorized personnel of state and/or local agencies are permitted to dispatch and remove injured or dead animals. In regard to your second question, even if the driver of the vehicle is a licensed California hunter who has the appropriate tags to take the deer that is accidentally hit by their car, that hunter cannot legally tag that deer and take it home. Deer may only be taken with rifles, shotguns, pistols and revolvers, muzzle loaders and archery equipment. Motor vehicles are not included in this list of legal methods of take. Although Fish and Game Code section 2000.5(a) states the accidental taking of game by a motor vehicle is not a violation of the law, it does not authorize the possession of animals taken by a collision with a vehicle. You may wonder why this is the case since it seems like it would be a waste of a deer to not be able to place a tag on it and perhaps save another from being taken. The reason is that some poachers would use the “collision” excuse to take deer at night with their vehicle and just attach their tag to justify the action. Question: Why does California’s deer archery-only season start in the middle of the summer right when it’s already so blazing hot? (Jamie W., Anaheim) This is a very good question and there are actually a number of reasons why the archery seasons begin so early in California. First, the setting of deer seasons in California is a balance between providing adequate hunting opportunity and a harvest that will not have a negative effect on the buck segment of the herd (low buck ratios). Therefore, general (rifle) hunting seasons are set to end prior to the peak of the rut (breeding season) when bucks are more vulnerable to harvest. The rut in California’s Deer Zones differ by their location (e.g., A Zone rut occurs in late September and the B Zones peak rut begins in early/mid November. This balance provides the maximum hunting opportunity (hunters in the field) with a reasonable expectation of killing a deer. Once the general seasons are set, the archery season is then established prior to the beginning of the rifle season. By regulation (Fish and Game Code Section 4370), the archery deer season must end three days prior to the opening of the general season. Thus, if you look at the calendar you can begin to see why the archery season begins in the summer. Another variable biologists consider when establishing the beginning of the archery season is the age of the fawns. DFG strives to begin the archery season at a point where fawns are old enough to not be negatively affected by disturbance. As an example, let’s look at the A Zone. The general rifle seasons for A Zone begin on the second Saturday of August (Aug. 9, 2008) for 44 days ending before the peak of the rut. DFG has determined that fawns are old enough to withstand disturbance by the beginning of July because they are born in late spring. Therefore, the archery season begins the second Saturday in July (July 12, 2008) and extends for 23 days (Aug. 3, 2003). This season framework accommodates the biology of the deer, hunter opportunity and the law requiring a three day separation between seasons. Another factor that has also influenced the timing of the deer seasons in general is hunter preference. A number of years ago, DFG proposed shifting the A Zone season later where the weather would be cooler. This proposal was summarily rejected by the local hunting organization in A Zone because they wanted to maintain the tradition and they liked the ability to hunt early in A Zone and then later in other zones. (Thanks go to our DFG staff in the Deer Management Program for their assistance with this one!) Bookmark to:
NASP: Teach archery to your students in grades 4-12The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) is an international-style archery program for students in grades 4-12. NASP is delivered to students by teachers as an in-school lesson plan through a joint venture between the DFG and the California Department of Education. NASP is very popular in physical education classes, but other disciplines use the program as well. Teachers are trained by the DFG and are asked to undergo an 8-10 hour training class to become a NASP-certified instructor. There is a class material fee of $55 per participant which includes one year of NASP membership. DFG is offering training classes for educators to deliver the NASP program to elementary, middle and high school students. After school program instructors or other youth organizations are also welcome to apply. If you are interested in implementing NASP at your school, please read the FAQ and apply online. At the time of application, you may sign up for any of the current trainings being offered or you may request to be notified of a future training. When your application is submitted, you will receive an email response with detailed information. Class material fee of $55 must be paid two weeks prior to class date. Contact Lesa Johnston, NASP Coordinator Bookmark to:
Massive German Brown Trout caught in North Yuba River
Mr. Jerry Hayden of Penn Valley caught this incredible 45 inch long German Brown weighing 12.5 lbs on 6-17-09 in Downieville. The trout was weighed at Sierra Hardware in Downieville, California. Bookmark to:
Fishing for Children’s Miracles A.J. Casella is one teen who has definitely made a difference for plenty of kids helped by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Since setting up his first fishing tournament at Lake Almanor, Casella has raised over $100,000 for the cause. Last year the event drew more than 300 people and brought in close to $42,000. The event is held each year at Big Cove Resort on the Lake Almanor Peninsula. This year’s event is on Saturday, August 1st. The entry fee for adults is $50. For kids under 16, it is $25 with a separate big fish contest entry at $15. The event begins at 6 am with weigh-ins at noon, followed by a complementary lunch. There will also be a raffle and silent auction at 12:30. Raffle tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. All fees are tax deductible. Casella, a 17 years old, became inspired several years ago when the Make-A-Wish Foundation granted a wish to his friend John, with Leukemia. They sent John to Fenway Park to see a major league baseball game. Casella said he saw just what that meant to his friend, who, when he needed a happy thought to help him get through it all, thought of his trip to Fenway Park. A.J.’s love of fishing and his drive to organize motivated him to plan his first fishing tournament. The money raised at this year’s tournament is slated to help send a 6 year old child with leukemia to Hawaii to swim with dolphins, and a 9 year old, also with leukemia, to attend the National Football League’s Pro Bowl. Casella was honored by the Make-a-Wish Foundation for his efforts and he hopes to make this year’s tournament even bigger and better than ever. The Fish For A Wish Tournament is held at Big Cove Resort at 442 Peninsula Drive at Lake Almanor. Applications are available at the resort or you can call 530-596-3349 to enter the competition or to make a donation. To refer a child to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, call 415-982-9474. Bookmark to:
Gold Discovery Days
State Park Holds 50th Anniversary Celebration
in the Cool of Plumas County
July 18 and 19
JOHNSVILLE, CA – Cool off, camp and sample the life of a gold miner this summer during Gold Discovery Days at Plumas-Eureka State Park.
This year, California State Parks, the Plumas-Eureka State Park Association, and the Johnsville Historical Society are hosting an extra special celebration marking the parks’ 50th Anniversary on July 18th and 19th from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. both days.
“We have two reasons to celebrate this year.” said Pam Armas, Sierra District Superintendent. “The gold discovery 158 years ago, and the establishment of this property as a state park 50 years ago.”
Along with a barbecue lunch, visitors will get to meet characters from the old west as volunteers will be dressed in period costume performing their roles as the mine’s blacksmith, assayer, mill operator, and town residents. Self-guided tours and guided tours are also available, including the guided tour of a 19th century miner’s cottage, exhibiting what life was like for a family in the mining era. A guided architectural tour of Johnsville will be available on Saturday afternoon. The Johnsville Historical Society’s church museum will be open both days, and they will have a bake sale on Sunday. Horse and buggy rides will also be available through town.
Features available through out the year will also be available including gold panning in a trough. The park museum and store will be open, a barbeque lunch will be available, and Sunday morning is the park’s annual pancake breakfast..
Visitors who reserve a campsite early can stay overnight not far from the fun in one of the park’s 67 camps sites in the forested canyon along Jamison Creek. Then, on Sunday, they can wake up to the smell of pancakes being served on the outdoors on the lawn behind the museum for anyone who wants to come.
The park is located off of the beaten path just three hours from Sacramento, or 1 ½ hours north of Truckee.
The Plumas-Eureka area was mined heavily beginning in 1851, following an initial gold strike in that year. Several townsites were established to support the mining operations which continued until 1943. In 1959, the State of California established the park on lands that had been acquired after the mining operations dissolved. Today, the park features over 5,000 acres of forested, high Sierra terrain. Several old mining ruins remain, including the Mohawk Stamp Mill and the miner’s bunkhouse, which now serves as the park’s museum and ranger station.
The event is free and open to the public. Meals are available for a donation both days. Barbecue lunch starts at $5. Pancake Breakfast: $8 for adults, $5 for children 10 and under. Proceeds will benefit the non-profit Plumas-Eureka State Park Association which is dedicated to the interpretation and education of the park’s rich cultural and natural history.
Camping reservations in the Upper Jamison Creek Campground can be made by contacting Reserve America at 1-800-444-7275 or at www.reserveamerica.com.
For more information on the event, please contact the park at (530) 836-2380.
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CALIFORNIA OUTDOORS Question: Question: Anglers under 16 are not required to purchase a California sport fishing license and are allowed to fish with two rods in inland waters without the stamp, as long as they are fishing in an area where it is legal to use two rods. Bookmark to:
CALIFORNIA OUTDOORS Question: Question: Anglers under 16 are not required to purchase a California sport fishing license and are allowed to fish with two rods in inland waters without the stamp, as long as they are fishing in an area where it is legal to use two rods. Bookmark to:
(DFG photo by Carrie Wilson.) California Department of Fish and Game News Release NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 4, 2009 Contact: Carrie Wilson, Communications Office, CalOutdoors@dfg.ca.gov
California Outdoors Q&As: Putting fish on granddaughter’s line
Question: I have a question about putting fish on another person’s hook. My son-in-law takes his daughter (my granddaughter) fishing but she does not have much luck. Is it legal for me to place fish on her hook while I am under water scuba diving? We will be camping this summer and this would allow her to experience the thrill of catching a fish when she goes out fishing with her dad. I would even purchase fresh fish at the market to place on her hook while fishing, if needed. Only her father and I would know. Please advise. Thanks. (Brian K.)
Answer: I applaud your creativity and desire to ensure your granddaughter will enjoy her fishing experience! This sounds pretty difficult though and perhaps dangerous depending on how hard she may yank her line, but it is not illegal.
Whether you are fishing in fresh water or saltwater, any fish you put on her hook must either be dead or have been caught in the same waters where you are fishing. It must also be a legal species to take, meet any minimum size limits and it must count against your own bag limit for the day. If you plan to be fishing in freshwater, you may not catch fish by hand to put on her hook.
You may purchase fresh fish at the market to place on her hook but you cannot transport them alive.
One thing I’d suggest is to check out the California Fishing Passport Program online at www.dfg.ca.gov/fishingpassport. This Department of Fish and Game (DFG) program is designed to promote sport fishing throughout the state and may be ideal for helping your granddaughter develop a greater interest in fishing. Hopefully, it will also motivate her to want to do more fishing with you and her dad. If you have any questions after viewing the Web site, please contact DFG at Passport@dfg.ca.gov.
(Photo available at www.dfg.ca.gov/QandA/2009/20090604.asp)
Question: Are rattlesnakes legal to keep as pets in California? I’ve browsed the Internet and have not found the answer online. Thanks. (Cyle W.)
Answer: California Fish and Game law does not prohibit keeping live rattlesnakes you have taken from the wild. However, the laws do prohibit buying or selling live rattlesnakes and also prohibit importing or exporting rattlesnakes.
According to DFG Capt. (ret.) Phil Nelms, you do not need a license to take rattlesnakes from the wild, but there is a limit of two per species. California has five different species of rattlesnakes: Crotalus viridis (Western rattlesnake), Crotalus atrox (Western diamondback rattlesnake), Crotalus ruber (Red diamondback rattlesnake), Crotalus scutulatus (Mojave rattlesnake), Crotalus mitchelli (Speckled rattlesnake) and Crotalus cerastes (Sidewinder). The California regulations regarding reptiles and amphibians can be found in Sections 5.05 and 5.60 of the 2009 Freshwater Fishing Regulations booklet or online at www.dfg.ca.gov/regulations.
Be aware, however, that local city or county ordinances may prohibit keeping live animals that may be dangerous. I suggest you check with the local law enforcement officials for any restrictions in your area.
Question: I got a citation from a DFG game warden recently for fishing without a license. I had a fishing pole but I didn’t have a line in the water. Can the game warden really give me a ticket when I wasn’t literally fishing? (Janice B.)
Answer: Yes, you can get a ticket for fishing without a license if a warden made previous observations of you fishing, even if you don’t have a line in the water when the warden approaches you.
If you feel you were cited unfairly, you have every right to look at how the law is written and take your case to court. Fish and Game Code Section 7145 discusses license requirements, Section 15 defines “angling” and Section 86 defines “take.”
Question: I’d like to buy fallow deer to raise on my property for hunting purposes. Is this legal? (Darrell W., Paso Robles)
Answer: No. You may not possess, transport, import, propagate, transfer, buy or sell any live fallow deer for the purpose of hunting. This is also true for many other species. Fallow deer may be raised for venison to be sold to markets provided you have the proper permits from DFG. However, native deer or their meat may never be sold (FGC Sections 2124 and 4301).
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Carrie Wilson is a marine biologist with the California Department of Fish and Game. Her DFG-related question and answer column appears weekly at www.dfg.ca.gov/QandA. While she cannot personally answer everyone’s questions, she will select a few to answer each week. Please contact her at CalOutdoors@dfg.ca.gov.
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Carrie Wilson, Office of Communications, CalOutdoors@dfg.ca.gov California Outdoors Q&As: I was wondering how Fish and Game plants fish in high elevation lakes and ponds in the Tahoe National Forest, where you can only reach them by hiking? (Bradley G.)
The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) uses a variety of methods to release fish into waters designated for receiving fish. In high-mountain waters that our planting trucks cannot reach, approximately 95 percent of the fish are planted by air. We also transport fish for planting by horse, mule and backpack. DFG is very selective in planting high mountain lakes. Lakes that are planted do not receive plants every year. According to Dr. William Cox, DFG Program Manager for Fish Production and Distribution, that is not necessary because the fish grow very slowly and the successive year plants would not produce fish with notable size differences. Usually they are planted every second or third year. At lower elevations most planting is done by trucking fish to designated sites. Bears and Kids Question: I have a question about bears and kids. We live on 10 acres where we have a large garden, fruit trees, berry bushes and two horses. We definitely have bears that come around as our fruit trees (and those of our surrounding neighbors) have claw marks on them as evidence. My concern is for my six-year-old-son who enjoys playing outside. Although I keep an eye on him, there are times when he plays unsupervised.
My question is: If children encounter bears should they follow the same advice as adults – stand still, face the animal but don’t stare, make noise and try to appear as large as possible? I understand to teach him not to run, but if a bear comes up close he would be so much smaller than the bear and so vulnerable. There is no way he could make himself bigger than the bear or have a loud and deep enough voice to scare it off. Shouldn’t I also teach him to back away slowly and get inside? Is standing there looking at the bear and calling for me the best thing to teach him? I need some advice on how to teach my child exactly what he should do. Thank you. (Kelly, Crescent City) Answer: I certainly understand your concern. According to Department of Fish and Game (DFG) Senior Wildlife Biologist and bear expert Doug Updike, children should follow the same procedures as those given for adults, which you mentioned. Bears are more attracted to fruit, food and garbage, however, than to people, but the very best situation is that your children not find themselves in a vulnerable or unsupervised position in the event of a surprise visit. If you have wild animals in your area, you need to closely supervise your children. Mountain lions and coyotes pose a much greater threat than a bear. Still, the likelihood of having your child attacked by a bear, mountain lion or coyote is extremely low as wild animal attacks, while tragic, are not common. For more on living safely with bears, lions and coyotes, please visit DFGs Keep Me Wild Web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/education/living.html. Carrie Wilson is a marine biologist with the California Department of Fish and Game. Her DFG-related question and answer column appears weekly at www.dfg.ca.gov/QandA. While she cannot personally answer everyones questions, she will select a few to answer each week. Please contact her at CalOutdoors@dfg.ca.gov. Bookmark to:
Watch Out For Ice Out!  Brian Shontz of Davis CA with a 20 pound Mackinaw caught at Bucks Lake on the first day a boat could be launched. Many anglers eagerly await several events each year in hopes of hitting the water for some premier fishing. For some, who enjoy fishing moving water, opening day of stream season gets marked on the new calendars only seconds after the cellophane wrapping is removed. Others will block out time centered around a lake’s opening day or a particular species season on the ocean. These are usually dates set by the state and can be found in the current regulations, but there are other times that lake anglers look forward to each year that are much more illusive. The dates are not found in any regulation or set by state departments, these dates are determined by Mother Nature. What avid angler can forget about the fall trip when they timed it right and were on the water when all the conditions came together for a lake to “turn over” and the fish feeding frenzy that ensued. This time of year many of us are impatiently waiting for a favorite lake’s ice cap to recede, and access to be granted, to what can be the ultimate fishing experience. This is known as “ice out”. Ice out is an important time of year for the fish, signaling a time of new food sources. During the winter months while the lake is capped with ice, fish are left to forage food found only in the lake and as winter wears on many of these sources can dwindle. With the melting ice comes melting shore line snow creating run-off that brings all sorts or new food as well as nutrients that replenish the lakes food chain. The sun warmed surface waters further promote the food chain’s life cycle. The warmer surface waters also attract the fish and begin to spur their metabolism and their feeding drive.  Rick Kennedy of Davis CA with an early season Brown caught at Bucks Lake right after ice out. Ice out can also be a great time for the fisherman. It should be readily apparent that we have almost a “perfect storm” of conditions. 1) Fish have had several months of limited to non existent fishing pressure. 2) The fish are hungry and they are actively searching for food. And 3) They spend a lot of time at or near the surface making them easier for fishermen to target. With all of these conditions present, its no wonder the fishing can be so incredible. If there is a negative or a down side it would have to be comfort for us the anglers. Many times access to these waters is far from easy. Shore anglers may have to trudge through deep rotting snow to get to the water’s edge. Boat anglers may have it even worse, with winter like road conditions not to mention snow covered boat ramps. Many boaters choose to use smaller more portable boats and slide them across the snow to gain access. All of this to experience a magical time called “ice out” A word of caution; dealing with some of these conditions can be very hazardous. You should be prepared to deal with any and all situations and even though the calendar says spring, in most of these remote locations it is still very much like winter. You should dress properly and bring plenty of supplies and it is always a good idea to let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.  The author Capt. Bryan Roccucci displays a large Bucks Lake Mackinaw before it is released. About the author: Bookmark to:
Question: Answer: According to Department of Fish and Game (DFG) Associate Wildlife Biologist Jeff Cann, you should first remove all attractants from your yard such as pet food, dropped fruit, old garden vegetables, and securely close all garbage cans and compost heap containers. Even water can be an attractant this time of year, so if you have a fountain or fish pond, try to make it off limits (e.g. electric fence or dry it out). If the raccoons are coming in through holes in the fence, block those entry points with wire, wood or some other barrier. Keep in mind that raccoons are excellent climbers and are capable of gaining access to yards by climbing fences or using overhanging limbs to bypass fences altogether. Cutting overhanging limbs may help to keep them from dropping in. If the raccoons are climbing over your fence, one deterrent could be to line the top with spikes or sharp tack strips. An easy way to do this is via carpet tack strips which are essentially a lot of little nails anchored in wood that carpet installers use to stretch carpet over. If you completely line the top of the fence with these then the raccoons will not use the top board as a transit way either. A “hot wire” from an electric fence charger at the top of the fence will greatly increase the effectiveness of a fence for excluding raccoons but you’ll need to find a way to properly ground it. While these may all seem like extreme measures, the point here is to make your yard less hospitable than your neighbors so the pesky critters will move on. DFG Senior Wildlife Biologist Terry Palmisano also offers that if you’re thinking about chemical detractors, there are no registered toxicants or fumigants that we are aware of available for control of raccoons, but Capsaicin (a chile pepper extract) is registered as a repellent for raccoons. It may be useful in deterring trash-raiding raccoons. A great place for more information is the University of California Integrated Pest Management Program page on raccoons: www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74116.htm. Good luck! raccoon (Procyon lotor) Raccoon (Procyon lotor) Question: My brother and I have two burning questions we have been wondering about. Is it legal to use licorice to fish with as bait? Also, we observed a man with a syringe injecting air into his bait worms so they would float off the bottom. Is this legal? (Marcus O.) Processed food, such as licorice, are legal under bait regulations for inland waters found beginning in section 4.00 CCR, Title 14. It is also legal to inject air into a fishing worm and many such kits are found at sporting goods outlets. This method can be a very effective way to keep a worm off the bottom of lakes with heavy bottom vegetation. Bookmark to:
California Hunter Education Program
In a continued effort to reduce firearm accidents, the State of California requires all first time resident hunters, regardless of age, to complete hunter education training or pass a comprehensive equivalency test before purchasing a hunting license.
The California Department of Fish and Game conducts training throughout the state. Each year approximately 30,000 students complete the state’s ten-hour minimum hunter education course. Statistics show hunter education training is a success.
Hunting accidents of all types have declined substantially since the start of the program. The California Hunter Safety Program began on January 1, 1954 with the passage of the Davis-Abshire Hunter Safety Training Law. The initial law required all junior hunters to take a Hunter Safety Class prior to obtaining their first hunting license.
For information on classes and on-line classes, contact:
Hunter Education Program 1416 Ninth Street, Room 1326 Sacramento CA 95814 (916) 653-1235 Bookmark to:
This time of year, deer hunters are on the move in Northeastern California, each in search of the big buck. It turns out they spend a lot of bucks doing so too. With deer being the most popular and accessible big game animal in the state, hunters stimulate the economy. According to California’s Department of Fish and Game (DFG), 150,000-plus deer hunters spend millions of dollars in licenses and deer tags, which is important for wildlife management programs. In addition to funding general wildlife management activities, 54% of all deer tag fees are funneled specifically into deer projects via the Deer Herd Management Program which was created by law and enacted in 1984. According to DFG statistics, hunters also spend millions of additional dollars on equipment, travel, provisions and lodging. One study by CA DFG estimates that deer hunters help support nearly 8,000 jobs in the private sector. Local businesses in the northeastern region are eager to welcome hunters. Deer hunting season comes just after the summer tourist season has wound down. Bookmark to:
There is nothing like a visit to the great outdoors.
 Fresh air, water and sunshine and kickin’ it in the woods are my favorite part of the mountain summer. However, there are a few things we all need to remember to keep camping safe and the wildlife wild. Always keep food items locked up and/or out of reach. Bear, mountain lion, bobcat, raccoon, chipmunk, squirrel and many other animals are opportunistic feeders and will try to get anything they can smell and reach. Continue reading Keeping Camping Safe and Wildlife WildBookmark to:
Wishes Come True Thanks to One Local Teen “FISH FOR A WISH” FISHING TOURNAMENT – August 2
Sixteen year old A.J. Casella has been busy organizing his fourth annual fundraiser for the Make A Wish Foundation, Fish For A Wish, held annually at Big Cove Resort on the Lake Almanor Peninsula. A.J. was inspired ten years ago when his friend, a victim of leukemia, was granted his dream of visiting Boston’s Fenway Park by the Make A Wish Foundation. Since then, before the ’08 tournament, A.J.’s project had raised over $35,000 for the cause. Wishes granted average costing around $6,000 each. Funds are provided for families to be able to take part in the fun too, without financial worry. Last year’s tournament hosted 52 fishermen and women and sold $1,600 in drawing tickets. Prizes and trophies are awarded at a luncheon each year, courtesy of Big Cove Resort. Motivated by the kids he is helping, Casella handles all aspects of the tournament, from selling sponsorships and advertising to signing in participants and weighing the fish. He has participated in several radio and news interviews. His dedication to fundraising for the cause has won him honors from the Make A Wish Foundation. The 2008 ‘Fish for a Wish’ tournament held Saturday, August 2 at Big Cove Resort. The entry fee for adults is $50 with kids at $25. For information on the tournament or making a donation, contact A.J. Casella at 530-596-3349.
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In 1980 a group of concerned fishermen, business people and the Chester/Lake Almanor Chamber of Commerce formed the Almanor Fishing Association. This organization is “dedicated to the enhancement and preservation of a high quality fishing resource in Lake Almanor and assuring its continual availability to everyone wishing to enjoy the sport of fishing.” It is now more than 300 members strong and what a dedicated bunch. For over 14 years, volunteers of the Almanor Fishing Association have raised 50,000 Eagle Lake Trout to supplement the Department of Fish & Game plants.
