02 19

FEBRUARY 2019 $4.
00
Woods-n-Water News
Michigan’s Premier Outdoor Publication
Late Season
GEESE
2018
BEAR
More HARVEST
TROPHY
BUCKS
Siana
Stanton WALLEYES
• Infant Antlers • Bottom-Bouncing Below Ice • Trolling
• The Spinner Bite • Winter Trout • Running Rough Water
• New MDNR Director Appointed • State Forest Road Inventory
www.woods-n-waternews.com • Like us on facebook Follow us on
Pay only
$
250.00
$
50.00
DOWN 9 MONTH MINIMUM
MERCHANDISE
PURCHASE.
L AYAWAY
Then only *Som e exclusions
$
20.00/ apply
MONTH
*Payments can be made Good for in-stock
by phone or mail
JANUARY ONLY
GOOD FOR IN-STOCK REGULAR-PRICED GUNS, BOWS & OPTICS ONLY
items only!
9-MONTH LAYAWAY ON SPECIAL ORDERS FROM DATE OF ORDER WITH 25% DEPOSIT
* Deposit is non-cancellable, non-refundable.
SPECIAL PURCHASE
BEST FIREARM SELECTION
OVER 2,000 GUNS IN STOCK!
Escort Xtreme Magnum

AR-556 450 Bushmaster Semi Auto 12 Ga. Semi Auto
18” Barrel 28” Barrel; 3” Chamber w/Set of
IN STOCK NOW!
STU08522
5 Choke Tubes & Stock Shims
WE STOCK THE BEST BOW BRANDS!

• Hoyt • Mathews • Bowtech • Mission
Great 3- MO NT H
Waterfowl
9MM 115 Gr. • Diamond LA YA WA Y AT
CROSSBOW BRANDS! Gun!
SA LE PR ICE
FMJ
Case of 500 Rounds • Ravin • Killer Instinct • Excalibur
Sale
$
8999
• Tenpoint • Wicked Ridge • Horton
• Carbon Express • Barnett • Centerpoint
15 %
OFF
Sale
$
299 99
All Scent•Lok Apparel

Thunderbolt
22LR
Bulk Pack of 500 Rounds
Revenant Carbon
Alloy Coat
Fleece (Quiet!)
Realtree Edge
Neverwet (Repels water)
Revenant Carbon
Alloy Pants
Fleece
Realtree Edge
Sz. M, L, XL
20% OFF
Most New Ruger American Bolt
$
1599
Sz. M, L, XL
Only Action Center Rifles* & Mini 14 &
Sale Only
$
249 99 6-Month
Layaway
or Cash &
$
24999
(SZ. 2X, 3X ONLY $10 MORE)
Mini 30 Semi-Auto Rifles & M77/357
& M77/44 Bolt Action Rifles
5.56MM 62 Gr. SCE83912 Carry SCE83920
FMJ
Case of 1000 Rounds
(Bulk Pack) BEST PRICES EVER!
REG. $389.99
Sale
6-Month 20% OFF
$
349 XM855
99 Layaway
or Cash &
Carry
All Sitka Apparel
(Starting February 1st)
3-M ON TH LAY AW AY AT
SA LE PR ICE S
*Excludes 450 Bushmaster models
FREE 9- M ON TH
TenPoint
Hard Case
w/purchase.
LA YA W AY Helix 9- M ON TH
LA YA W AY Vertix 9- M ON TH
LA YA W AY
Triax
New!
179.99 value
$
Shadow NXT
With Rope Cocking Sled
instead of AcuDraw
Sale
9- M ON TH
LA YA W AY
$
109999
TENCB18018-5824 From Only
$
109999 From Only
$
99999 From Only
$
99999
FREE 9- M ON TH
TenPoint
Hard Case LA YA W AY RX-3 2 Miles West of Hastings
w/purchase.
On M-37 & M-43
New!
179.99 value
$
2208 W. M-43 Hwy.,

Shadow NXT Hastings, MI
With Pro View 2 Scope,
Acudraw, Quiver, 3-Arrows. 269/945-4106
Sale STOP IN OR SHOP ONLINE
AT BOBSGT.COM
9- M ON TH
LA YA W AY
$
129999
TENCB18018-5822
From Only
$
159999 Limited quantity available on all items. Not responsible for printing errors. All items subject to prior sale.
*Discounts off regular everyday selling prices.
BOAT SHOW INCENTIVES
UP TO $2,500
2018 1875 2018 1600 2018 220
SPORT ANGLER ALASKAN TILLER FISH/CRUISE
115 Mercury & 9.9 Pro Kicker 60 Mercury

Shorelander Trailer Shorelander Trailer 115 Mercury
2019 1875 2019 2019 1875

IMPACT XS 1900 TYEE CROSSOVER
115 Mercury 200 Mercury 150 Mercury

Shorelander Trailer Shorelander Trailer Shorelander Trailer
2000 2019 1675 2019 1625

ALASKAN TILLER ADVENTURE SS FURY XL SS
115 Mercury 60 Mercury 115 Mercury

Shorelander Trailer Shorelander Trailer Shorelander Trailer
DON’T WAIT! SELECTION GOING FAST!!

SALES: 810-653-0490
5605 Davison Rd., 4 miles east
of Downtown Davison
Open 6 Days: Monday - Friday 9am-5pm;
Saturday 9am-2pm
www.chapmanssports.com
WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2019 3
MDNR’s new director,
By Tom Campbell...
Outdoor Reminders
Spring Turkey Permit
Reminder to all spring turkey hunt-
Daniel Eichinger
ers; the application period ends Feb. FIRST Gov. Gretchen Whitmer recently
announced appointments for sev-
1. This hunt is one of the best hunts
to introduce a new hunter or mentor a BUCK eral state agencies, including Daniel
young hunter. The 2019 spring turkey Eichinger, who joins the DNR as the
season runs April 22 through May 31, department's new director.
with several hunt periods to choose Eichinger most recently served as
from. You can purchase your applica- executive director of Michigan Unit-
tion online at E-license or anywhere ed Conservation Clubs, the nation’s
hunting licenses are sold. Application most effective state-based conserva-
fee is $5. Drawing results will be avail- tion organization. In that role, he led
able online March 4. Leftover licenses MUCC’s return as a driving force for
will be sold over-the-counter beginning
conservation and our outdoor heri-
March 11.
tage. Under his leadership, MUCC
Report Your Deer Hunting revamped its organizational structure,
Now that many have finished their Drew Stewart has only been hunting for grew membership and launched new
deer hunting for this year, the DNR seven years and in those years he’s taken programs to connect people with
invites you to report your deer hunting three does. He’s certainly seen plenty of 6-8
point bucks, but always thought to himself, nature.
activity online (https://www.misurvey- From 2007 to 2012, he worked in various capacities with the De-
dnr.com). The information you provide “What would they look like next year? Let’s
let them grow.” partment of Natural Resources, first as legislative liaison, where he was
will help the DNR evaluate hunter
success and total number of deer taken. He’s learned all about deer, deer hunt- heavily involved in passing the innovative Recreation Passport to fund
ing, and buck activity from his three hunting state parks. Later, he helped establish the first Policy and Regulations
If you still plan to hunt deer during mentors; brothers Nate and Roy and Chuck
the January Urban deer management Unit for the agency’s Wildlife Division.
Willette. Gov. Whitmer called Eichinger "a trusted leader in the conserva-
archery season in Oakland, Wayne and The evening of Nov. 17 on the Willette
Macomb counties, please do not report family property in Tuscola County, Drew tion of Michigan’s abundant natural resources and outdoor heritage"
until after you are done hunting for the watched a very large doe trotting with her and someone who "has the broad experience needed to bring innovative
entire year. Remember, it’s important tongue hanging out as if she had been run- ideas and also successful implementation of conservation efforts and rec-
for all deer hunters to participate, even ning for a significant distance. Sure enough reation opportunities here in the state.”
if you do not hunt or harvest a deer. about 100 yards behind her was a beautiful Eichinger, who holds bachelor’s and master's degrees in fisheries and
The DNR survey results will be posted buck in hot pursuit. Drew let the doe pass wildlife from Michigan State University, as well as a master’s of public
on their website as soon as they are and put a perfect shot on the buck with the
feeling his heart was beating out of his chest!
administration, is eager to get started in this new role.
available. “Conservation is a team sport," he said. "I look forward to working
Drew realizes there are certainly lots of
Winter Show Season bigger bucks harvested but for his first buck, with our partners to continue the thoughtful stewardship of the extraordi-
Woods-N-Water News will be par- this 200-pound 9-point with a 20-inch spread nary natural and cultural resources that so deeply define us as Michigan-
ticipating in the following shows this and 9-inch tines is amazing. ders.”
winter, be sure to stop by and check
Lake sturgeon season on Black Lake

out the subscription specials...
January 25-27: Huntin’ Time Expo,
Delta Plex Arena, Grand Rapids
Feb. 28-March 3: Outdoorama,
Suburban Collection Showplace, Novi One of Michigan’s for anglers to pick up
March 8-10: O.L./Field & Stream Expo most anticipated an- their fishing identifica-
Lansing Center, Lansing gling opportunities – tion flags and talk with
March 14-17: Ultimate Sport Show, the annual lake sturgeon DNR staff about season
Devos Place, Grand Rapids fishing season on Black logistics and sturgeon
Lake in Cheboygan populations,” said DNR
SEASONS County – will start at 8
a.m. Saturday, Feb. 2.
fisheries biologist Tim
Cwalinski.
Now – Jan. 31 -- Urban deer management archery sea- The 2019 total season Anglers are strongly
son is in Oakland, Wayne and Macomb counties. (On limit on Black Lake is encouraged to take
public and private lands open to hunting).
Now - March 15 – Walleye and pike open in Lower seven lake sturgeon. To advantage of the early
Peninsula inland waters reduce the chance of registration Friday, but
Now - March 15 – Walleye and pike open in Upper
Peninsula Great Lakes, inland waters & St. Marys River exceeding that limit, officials will close the those unable to do so may register the next
Now - Mar. 31 – Squirrel; Fox and Gray (black phase season if one of two scenarios occurs: day at the registration trailer at Zolner Road
included) Season • The sixth fish is harvested. ending on Black Lake. Morning registration
Now - Mar. 31 – Cottontail and Snowshoe Hare Season
Now – Mar. 1 -- Fox (gray and red) hunting state- • Five fish have been harvested at the begins at 7 a.m. each day of the season.
wide. Coyote hunting season is open year-round end of any fishing day. Anyone who successfully takes a lake
Now – Jan. 31 -- Spring Turkey Hunt Application
period
Daily season fishing hours are 8 a.m. sturgeon must contact an on-ice DNR
Jan. 26 – Feb. 11 – South Zone; Dark and light goose to 2 p.m. The season will end either at 2 employee and register the fish at the
season p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 6, or when one of the Zolner Road trailer registration site.
Feb. 2 – Black Lake sturgeon season (see boxed infor-
mation for details) above scenarios is met, at which point DNR Registration may include an examination
Open All Year – Pike and walleye season on Lower personnel on the lake will notify anglers to of the fish’s internal organs and removal
Peninsula Great Lakes, Lake St. Clair & St. Clair & immediately stop fishing for lake sturgeon. of a piece of fin tissue for DNA analysis
Detroit Rivers
Open All Year – Salmon and trout season on Great Registration is required to participate in and aging.
Lakes, St. Marys River, Lake St. Clair & St. Clair & the season. The DNR Onaway field station Questions? Call the DNR’s Gaylord
Detroit Rivers
Open All Year – Catch-and-immediate-release bass
(approximately 5 miles north of Onaway on Customer Service Center at 989-732-3541,
season on all Michigan waters open to fishing Route 11) will host early registration 2 to 7 visit michigan.gov/fishing or contact Tim
*Consult the Michigan Hunting and Trapping Digests, Fishing Digest, or p.m. Friday, Feb. 1. Cwalinski, 989-732-3541, ext. 5072 or
other species-specific hunting digests for a more complete list of dates
and regulations regarding each season or hunt period. “Early registration is a great opportunity Elyse Walter, 517-284-5839.
4 FEBRUARY 2019 WNW NEWS
Another Bucket List Destination
HUNTING
Drew Porter’s deer
John Bergsma page 54
Trolling Speed
WINTER
TROUT
season of a lifetime Mark Romanack page 56
Mark Sak page 8
Plan your fishing
Bill Brown’s -- BIG BUCK Michigan calendar...
Mark Sak page 18 36 Hotspots
Mike Gnatkowski page 74
Cover Buck...Siana Stanton
The Saturday
before Thanksgiving FEATURE
Jerry Lambert page 20
Infant Antlers
A very successful fall John Ozoga page 25
page 41
Black Capped Chickadee Jim Bedford...page 22
Unlucky Buck Jonathan Schechter page 30
Darryl Quidort page 60 Cover Story... Withstanding an assault of
Help design 2019 deer patch 2018 Bear Harvest “WIFE LOGIC”
page 37 Richard P. Smith page 38 Tom Carney page 50
Tawas Point Lighthouse $3.6 million to help Michigan Meanders...
Keeper Program battle invasive species Giants in the Earth
page 37 page 61 Tom Huggler page 52
Be prepared for winter The U.P. fight Dog Training...

page 71 against CWD continues It’s easier to train than to retrain
John Pepin-MDNR page 64 Len Jenkins page 70
Boat Smart...
Boat insurance
Capt. Fred Davis page 72
OPINIONS
Guest Column...
MDNR’s reflections on 2018 The Michigan Pheasant
MUCC’s Report: page 80 Hunting Initiative
page 66
Michigan is Number One NEWS Dear Fish Diary...
...page 32 Price to stop Asian Carp
February Free Fishing Weekend goes up again
page 21 Ron St. Germain page 67
Remembering that deer hunt
George Rowe page 76 Muskie harvest registration Mackinac Straits Corridor
page 21 Authority Line 5 agreement
Michigan Deer Camp Traditions
The Pigeon River Patriarch
New smelt regulations
WINTER GOOSE MDNR page 68
Jake Dykstra page 78
page 21 TACTICS New Governor investigates
legality of Line 5 deal
FISHING 24 New Conservation Officers Kenny Darwin...page 12 Guest Column page 68
page 29
Bottom-bouncing below ice
Mark Martin page 14 GUNS/AMMO
MUCC Report: Trotter MUCC’s new director
NEXT BITE... Michigan is number one! page 66 Black Powder Shooting Sports
Running rough water Jobs created from Not a passing fad
Dennis Neely page 58
Gary Parsons/Keith Kavajecz
page 16
hunting, fishing purchases
page 32 PERSPECTIVE
Gun Chat...
Waxwings in Winter M1 Carbine
THE ‘SPINNER’ BITE State forest road inventory Jerry Dennis page 40
Mark Romanack page 26 Kathleen Lavey-MDNR page 36 Lee Arten page 73
Double Up On Walleyes
Kenny Darwin page 42
FEBRUARY 2019
Woods-n-Water News
$4.00
DEPARTMENTS...
Required reading Trophy Pages. . . 62-63 Classifieds . . . . . . . 83
Late Season
GEESE
for finesse success
Dave Mull page 49 News/Op-Ed. . . . 66-68 Real Estate . . . . 84-89
2018
COVER PHOTOS
BEAR
1-810-724-0254
More HARVEST
TROPHY
BUCKS
Winter Goose-Kenny Darwin...page 12 www.woods-n-waternews.com

Siana’s Buck-Jerry Lambert...page 20 Siana
Stanton WALLEYES P.O. Box 278, Imlay City, MI 48444
Bear...Richard P. Smith...page 38 • Infant Antlers • Bottom-Bouncing Below Ice • Trolling
• The Spinner Bite • Winter Trout • Running Rough Water
www.facebook.com/woodsnwaternews
• New MDNR Director Appointed • State Forest Road Inventory
Walleyes-Kenny Darwin...page 42 www.woods-n-waternews.com • Like us on facebook Follow us on


Your Hunting
& Fishing Hookup
Set your sights on our latest special section for targeted information,
advertising and special offers geared toward outdoor enthusiasts
like you, just in time for hunting and fishing season!
Subscribe Today and Enjoy Michigan’s Best Outdoor Publication

NAME  New Subscription
 Renewal
ADDRESS
 One year $29
CITY
 Two years $55
STATE ZIP (Please attach mailing label)
 Check/Money Order  Visa/Mastercard
Card# Exp. Date

Send to:
Woods-N-Water News Or Call (810) 724-0254
P.O. Box 278
Imlay City, MI 48444 www.woods-n-waternews.com
Drew
Porter’s
deer
season
of a
lifetime!
By Mark Sak
D
rew Porter had quite
a year. He married
the love of his life,
Hailey, in September,
received a promotion
at work then went out
and shot, not one, but two, trophy
whitetails with his bow. He is on
quite a roll. The 27-year-old Man-
chester man loves to hunt with his
father Mike and they have worked
Two giant bucks taken in one Michigan deer season, both by bow
and arrow, and the biggest buck, dubbed “The Ghost Buck,” was
taken during the late bow season, which is especially sweet for hard
core bow hunters like Drew Por ter of Manchester.
very hard to improve their family one lone picture of a very heavy
property and adjoining lease to ac- 9-pointer. The buck carried good
commodate their love of whitetail mass throughout his rack and would
hunting and it’s working. be named “Bullwinkle” by Drew for
This is a story of not one, but obvious reasons. Unfortunately, it
two giant bucks taken in one Michi- would be the only picture he would
gan deer season, both by bow and get until he shot the buck on Octo-
arrow, and the biggest buck, dubbed ber 13, 2018. Thinking this big nine
“The Ghost Buck,” was taken dur- was just a wanderer during the rut,
ing the late bow season, which is Drew’s focus went back to other
especially sweet for hard core bow deer including the Ghost Buck,
hunters. As the story line goes with which he had seen on trail camera
all four whitetail stories I have cov- every July since 2014.
ered this year. Hard work and per- On October 13, 2018 he climbed
sistence are the common threads in into his furthest treestand situated
harvesting these magnificent trophy on the edge of a big hardwoods
whitetails. Again, this story begins and swamp that worked as a nice
years before the harvest. Four years funnel area. It was a sunny 40-de-
on the Ghost Buck and a year before gree afternoon and the hunter was
on the 11-pointer. enjoying the day when he first heard
In October of 2017, Drew Porter
checked his trail cam and found Drew Porter bucks page 10
Drew Porter’s deer:
said he actually had dreams of see- trotted in. The buck stopped briefly
ing this buck on the hoof. and presented the only chance to
Four years of trail camera shoot and Drew released on the tro-
pictures can do that to a guy. He phy. The arrow totally disappeared
from page 8 had one July picture of this buck in the buck’s vitals. He jumped sev-
in 2018, then he did his disappear- eral logs and went down, bulldozing
some movement through the leaves. in disbelief but thought he may ing act until December 13 when the another 45 yards until he could go
Although he couldn’t initially see have heard the buck crash. When buck again showed up on his trail no more.
how big the deer was, he stood and he started tracking, he found good camera. The clock on the camera Drew was out of his deer
grabbed his bow and waited to see blood and the blood trail increased recorded at 7:47 a.m., A daylight loving mind at this point, he
what was headed his way. as he got closer to the dead deer. picture! On December 17, Drew first kept telling himself, “This isn’t
It didn’t take long for him to He found the buck approximately opted to muzzeload hunt a soybean real, this isn’t real!” After regain-
see the big rack coming through 50 yards from his stand. The field as that is a high percentage ing his composure, he was able to
the trees. Amazingly the buck came buck’s green score was 154 4/8 late season bet. As fate would have text his dad Mike. “It’s finished.”
right in and when he walked under and it dressed out at 224 pounds. it, his dad wanted to hunt and they Drew waited for his dad to come
the canopy of a close maple tree it It had an inside spread of 20 3/8 share the same smokepole, so Drew to recover the Boone and Crocket
provided Drew the opportunity to and its longest beam measured grabbed his bow and settled into whitetail.
draw his bow. The buck cleared the 23 2/8. A big, mature Michigan his stand a little after 4 p.m. He was The buck scored 179 1/8. This
canopy at 20 yards and he could whitetail. taking in some squirrel action when buck has it all; 12 scorable points,
see the great width of the rack. He Any hunter across the country he heard the distinctive sounds of a 19 6/8 inch inside spread with his
stopped facing Drew’s stand at would be happy to have a 154 4/8 deer moving to the north of him. It longest main beam measuring 25
8-yards and began raking a tree. Af- during their deer season, but of was evident the deer was trotting in inches. Brows almost matched at 5
ter just a few seconds the big buck course Drew still had the Ghost at a good pace so instead of stand- 4/8 and 5 6/8 inches, three tines over
either caught a current or just could Buck in the back of his mind and ing he clipped on and pulled from a ten inches and of course the deep
sense something was wrong and he still had a tag. He and his father seated position so he wouldn’t get heavy splits on both sides.
froze, then turned and made two big named this buck the Ghost Buck busted by the animal. The biggest One of the best things about the
bounds back the way he came. Drew because they only saw him on trail rack he ever has seen crested the harvest is how Drew valued his fam-
immediately grunted, and the buck camera pictures and never saw this ridge in front of him and they were ily and loved the tradition provided
stopped to look back and was still buck live on the hoof. He was a eye to eye at 60 yards, but the buck to him by his father. Tradition came
under 20 yards away. He put the pin respectable ten-pointer back in 2014 didn’t pick him up. up several times in this story which
tight behind the buck’s shoulder and and then developed a nice split G3 Drew thought he may angle to shows how important our actions are
released making a good hit right in on his right side and a split G2 on the north but at the last minute he upon our family and friends. Con-
the boiler room. his left side in 2015. Every year he angled directly towards his stand gratulations on marrying the love of
The arrow snapped as the big got some good early pictures then he location. He came in quartered your life, congrats on the promotion,
deer ran for the cattails and Drew’s was gone until late November and it towards him at 30 yards and Drew and congrats on a great deer season
adrenaline took over. He sat down always made Drew’s head spin. He was able to stand unnoticed as he Drew.n
Spring Fever Boat Sales Event
FIVE YEARS COVERAGE ON ALL NEW OUTBOARDS!

Purchase a new 2.5hp to 350hp Mercury outboard between January 1 and March 31, 2019 and get a
total of five years of Mercury factory-backed limited coverage. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS.
www.DandRSports.com | 8178 West Main St., Kalamazoo, MI 49009 | (269) 372-2277

10 FEBRUARY 2019 WNW NEWS 1/19/2 - MI
WINTER GOOSE TACTICS
F
or a few seconds I could hundred birds feeding the day before
not hear anything except opener. But there is more to decoy-
outrageously loud geese ing wise geese than simply finding
honking and the raspy their dining area. Here’s why.
sound of huge wings Just take a peek at winter geese
zipping overhead just in a field during winter. The first
a few yards away. That’s when I thing you notice is very few birds
shouldered my Benelli, picked out are standing. Most are lying on their
a giant Canada, and bellies with legs and
dumped him with the feet pulled tight into
first shot. The second their downy feathers
shot was a complete to keep extremities
miss. But the third warm. Next you will
shot knocked the heck see birds in a feed-
out of a big gander ing, resting or relaxed
and he fell from the position rather than
skies along with with heads up. This
others my shooting means come winter
friends were boom- you can leave your
ing. From a distance alert, upright, bull,
our shooting challenger, sentry
probably sounded
like the Spartan By Kenny Darwin and callers decoys
in the shed. The
drum line on foot- idea is to mimic
ball Saturday, booming nine loud flocks of live birds, make your
rounds at hellish fast speed. decoy spread look realistic, alive,
As I rushed to retrieve huge and natural. This is achieved by
geese my mind drifted back to the using shell decoys and others with
fast paced shooting action. It’s the feeding, resting, sleeping or relaxed
hottest gunning of the New Year and profiles. Lifelike decoy spreads are
the thrill of monster geese flying important for shooting success and
point blank is exhilarating. You can modern decoys with precise feather
hear the whoosh of their wings. Try detail and flocked bodies will bring
this brand of waterfowling, expe- wild birds kissin’ close.
rience the heart pounding action Just about any decoy will get
first hand and you will quickly be their attention if you scouted and
impressed with the warm fun filled know exactly where to set up.
outdoor adventure. But there is more
to scoring on winter geese than
simply setting decoys in a field. If
your quest is to sample winter goose
hunting or you want to score on
more birds, listen up, I’ve got some
hot tips.
Michigan’s winter goose season
opener is January 26 this year and
runs through February 11. You will Above: One advantage of wearing
need a small game license, a Michi- snow camouflage is birds cannot
gan waterfowl stamp and a Federal see your outline. Plus when the
waterfowl stamp as well as a plug in shooting star ts you can aim and fire
your shotgun to keep shell capacity in any direction. Left: Set decoys
at 3. Your stamps and license used relatively close together 1-5 ft.
for fall hunting are good for the apar t in family groups with feeder
decoys at the end of a long “J” pat-
special late season. Only southern tern. Avoid stand up or aler t decoys
Michigan (Zone 3) has the late sea- in winter. Geese in snow are relaxed
son and the daily bag limit this year or feeding and seldom alarmed.
has been changed to five birds.
Our morning hunt began days One trick is to match your spread to
before the opener as we scouted the number of geese landing in the
area fields and found a honey hole area. If there are only a few, just a
loaded with geese. In the morning couple dozen decoys will work. If
headlights you could see thousands you are hunting pressured geese and
of goose tracks in the snow as we there are other hunters in the area
drove into the frozen cornfield and with decoys, go with a large decoy
set out decoys. We placed decoys spread.
exactly where we had seen several The way you set up decoys in a
field has a big impact on results. Try When weather turns nasty I keep
placing them in a long “J” shape or warm as toast by putting toe warm-
fishhook pattern with stand up or ers in my boots and finger warmers
upright heads facing into the wind in my gloves. Keep in mind some
at the main spread. This gives the days I set up decoys before dawn,
impression birds are walking toward take a quick lunch break and stay
the main decoy feeding area. Now, in the spread until sunset sends me
make certain to kick snow to bare back to the ranch.
ground, tear up the field to make Rookie hunters make the mis-
it look like snow was disturbed by take of using too high pitch cheap
feeding geese. This makes your calls rather than raspy adult goose
feeding circle at the bottom of the calls. If you want to get the atten-
“J” look like wild geese rooting tion of wary flocks, bring ’em close
through corn stubble in search of and finish them with ease, you need
kernels. One of my deadliest late a quality goose call. Savvy hunt-
season tactics is to drive my old ers refrain from over-calling gun
van in tight circles where I set out shy seasoned geese. Most use a few
decoys. I spin the tires, make donut loud greeting calls, wait to hear a
turns and rough up the soil surface reply from incoming birds and stick
and expose bare dirt. This becomes with only a few clucks and relaxed
the bottom of the “J” where birds noises. On high windy days you
are feeding. Place decoys relatively need a goose call with good volume
close together in the feeding zone, to get the attention of wild geese.
about 1-5 feet apart and have them During calm, quiet weather it is a
facing in every direction with the good idea to call like crazy when Sunset flock of geese moving ahead of a winter snow cloud.
long arm of the “J” facing the birds are coming but once they get
feeding area. Geese attracted to the close stop calling and let the realis- of a wild bird like a shiny black isn’t fantastic winter goose hunting
spread will fly downwind, glide the tic decoys bring them into easy gun barrel complete with gloss finish on water. Sure I’m a cornfield
length of the “J” and attempt to land range. You will discover more wary walnut stock. Some geese look for goose slaying nut but when ponds
in the feeding zone. Also try to keep birds will decoy if you sparingly use hunter’s faces. Few colors in nature and lakes ice over I can find plenty
your decoys in a relatively tight area realistic calls. are brighter red than a human face of geese on the Grand River close
which makes them look like a tight Can you tell I’ve spent decades in subzero temperatures. Still other to Lansing. Other rivers holding
feeding group. lying in the snow hunting Michigan birds are checking out blinds to geese include the Tittabawassee,
Some hunters rely on flagging honkers? I love the sport; enjoy the make certain they blend with the en- Muskegon, White, Kalamazoo, St.
to get the attention of distant flocks fresh air of winter and long to hear vironment and not sticking out like Joseph and many other open water-
and bring them toward decoys. the distant cry of incoming geese a sore thumb. Other things to correct ways.
Others rely on motion stake decoys headed to my location. Sometimes include a coffee thermos setting out- Hunters who work the big rivers
that provide movement when wind they simply see my decoy spread, side a blind, a decoy knocked over often let geese fly into surrounding
makes ’em waddle. During windy hear my loud single greeting call by a dog on the last retrieve, rookie fields to feed and then they set up
weather wind socks catch the air and cup wings, lower landing gear hunters that cannot control move- decoys along waterways. Full body
flow and waddle like live birds mov- and make the long glide to touch- ment, use of stand up alert decoys decoys are placed on shelf ice with
ing in your spread. Some move- down. Other times they react to the and poor camouflage. floater models close to where geese
ment can keep birds funneling into spread by staying slightly out of There will always be hunters roost come dark. When birds return
your spread. shotgun range as they slowly circle who argue the only load to use on from fields the shooting fun is top
Before you go outdoors you the spread, eyeball every detail, geese is #2 because they pattern notch.
need to consider how you will look high and low for telltale sign the best at 30 yards. That’s true but Hunting geese in snow squalls
conceal your position. Most savvy of hunters and from the flock comes plenty of late season shots are 40 is a riot. First, the crazy weather
hunters use layout blinds and match a single deep-throated honk which yards and further. I like to use BBB gets them fired up and they become
the camouflage to the environment. means danger in goose language and shot and often follow up the first active. Smart old birds like to sneak
Snow camo works like dynamite the flock fades away. I hate it when I two shots with a number “T” pellet. under cover of snowflakes to feed-
when fields are covered with snow. spend hours lying in freezing condi- While patterns are not tight with ing locations. They use the blowing
Perhaps the biggest advantage of tions and when birds finally arrive bigger shot the knockdown power snow and swirling flakes as camou-
blinds is you are protected from they give me the thumbs down and is off the hook. As for the T-shot it flage to conceal their approach. Plus,
wind, snow, sleet and rain. A wa- swing out of range. is simply the best when you need fresh snow that creates a whiteout is
terproof floor keeps you dry and So, what’s happening when wild follow up shots on cripples over 45 when you wear pure white cam-
a polyester shell keeps you warm geese come close but seem to hang yards away. When it comes to pass ouflage. Your human form is fully
when winter winds send most for up and intensely check out your shooting birds in marginal range the hidden from the watchful eyes of
the comfort of the truck heater. spread? I can tell you from experi- Ts will reach out and break a wing wary flocks that have survived all
But I’m an old gunner and spent ence the birds are hunter shy and or put a hole in the boiler room at the hunting seasons.
a lifetime wearing camouflage cloth- looking for decoys that don’t look unbelievable distances. If I could pick the weather for
ing and laying in the decoy spread. realistic or hunters not fully cam- I’ve killed zillions of geese with winter goose hunting I’d like a
Snow camouflage is the trick for ouflaged. I think some birds are on 2 ¾-inch 12 gauge shells. Now I winter thaw with strong southern
unbelievable winter gunning and to stationary decoys and when they know any waterfowler worth his winds to bring birds from the south.
it conceals your human outline. I get close they expect to see natural salt is dusting birds with 3 ½-inch Then I’d like cold weather to freeze
also wear water resistant clothing movement like birds feeding, magnum loads from a Benelli Black fields and make them solid to drive
covered with a Texas white throw walking or stretching wings. Eagle. As for me I view big guns on with my van full of decoys.
over. You’d laugh at my white goose But if decoys are dead still the in- and super magnum shells as macho Last I’d like fresh snow producing
hunting suit with custom tan spray coming wary birds bounce overkill. Give me 3-inch shells and a blanket of pure white to conceal
design and blood stains on the knees elsewhere. my fast shooting Winchester SX3 my outline and make decoys stand
and legs. I also wear my ice fishing Some hunters will flare wary and I’ll dump my limit at lightning out for miles. Hope I remember hot
boots, extra heavy stocking hat and geese because their gun is not cam- speed. coffee, licenses, shotgun and plenty
thick gloves. Now, here’s the kicker. ouflaged. Nothing gets the attention Don’t think for a minute there of shells.n
Bottom-bouncing below ice
Smack it and the fish will come…By Mark Martin
F
or anglers, the term line, and I join the two via a small
“bottom-bouncing” is Berkley Ball-Bearing Swivel. And
typically associated when ice fishing, I always connect
with an open-water my lure to the fluorocarbon by a
tactic of pulling crawler Berkley Cross-Loc Snap, rather than
harnesses or live bait a snap swivel, as the latter adds too
very near bottom. But the term can much hardware and bulk to the rig.
most definitely be used for ice fish- Banging on bottom works well
ing as well, no matter what species with all my favorite lures, whether
you’re after. they are metal jigging spoons or
This is because, besides how a hard-bodied baits.
fish’s lateral line picks up the tiny One of the many spoons I like is
vibrations sent out from objects Northland’s UV Macho Minnow –
through water displacement, fish Kickin, which comes painted in six
also use their otoliths (ears) to zone different ultra-violet hues, includ-
in on forage; especially those next ing glow-in-the-dark. It’s a heavy
meals that are floundering on bot- lure and raps well against bottom.
tom. And speaking of rapping, Rapala’s
Overall, when ice fishing, you Jigging Shad Raps and Jigging Raps
are extremely limited in the areas work wonders for creating chaos
you’re able to fish within a water- on hard bottoms, as well. And I’ve
way - only the very spots directly caught a lot of fish of all species on
below the holes you drill, to be Rapala’s newer Slab Rap, which
exact. To get the attention of a fish gives off a lot of vibration in the
that may be swimming nearby, your water.
lure has to make a lot of racket. And So, when’s the right time for
whacking bottom and stirring up a whacking bottom with your bait?
little sediment really works won- I like to thump bottom every few
ders. minutes until a fish is either spotted
I’m sure you realize there are The author, Mark Mar tin, caught this big walleye on a small Rapala on my Lowrance or on the MarCum,
lures of many makes and models Shad Rap that was lured in by bouncing the bait on bottom. and then fish it as I normally would
hanging on the pegged walls of your off bottom. But tapping hard bottom
favorite bait-and-tackle shop; some for the environment to settle down brightly-colored line on the color works well when a hole’s gone dry
manufactured with noise-making de- under me well before the sun rises readout, whereas soft is thicker and and the fish have seemingly left the
vices built within them, while others up over the horizon. muted. And, of course, I can figure area, or when I get a strike but the
are boisterous in shape alone; some To increase the efficiency of out which way the bottom falls off fish missed the lure.
even share a little of both. walking on ice, as well my own by paying attention to the depth In the case of a missed strike,
But sometimes it takes more safety, I use ice cleats on the soles of each hole. But with an SD card I’ll drop the lure immediately and
than just a lure’s systematic wiggle of my boots; all the while keeping filled with Navionics mapping in the rap it on bottom quite a few times,
and jiggle to get a fish to notice my footsteps as quiet as can be. unit’s card reader, that process is a then lift it up and let it set for a few
them. And that’s when you have to Although the traction on the sole of no-brainer. seconds; most of the time, fish will
hit rock bottom… literally. most boots is excellent, the added Once the bottom transition areas either hit it as the lure flounders
grip of spikes of any easy-on/easy- and is kicking up silt, or, as it sits
Quiet Counts off traction aid allows me to be the
are found on my sonar, I can con-
firm what, exactly, it’s made up of motionless afterwards.
Early on in the day, before get- most proficient I can be. Especially via my Quest HD Underwater View-
ting loud with my lures, I’m careful on a smooth, slick icy surface. And ing System – with a 1080p camera Bottom-Bouncer
to be the opposite of noisy. Instead, cleats with short spikes are much paired with 7-inch waterproof high- Drawing attention to your lure
I try to be as stealthy as can be. quieter than the large fang-like resolution color screen. is often as easy as bouncing bottom
Before the crack of dawn, I spears found on some ice walking With the MarCum, I can see with it. But remember to be stealthy
crank up my new, ultra-quiet Strike- aids. firsthand the composition of the in your approach, and then let your
Master Lithium 40v Auger and drill lake’s bottom. What I’m often look- lure be the loud device.
as many holes as I can muster. This Now, Rather Than Later ing for, especially in dingy water, or, Drill lots of holes right away,
insures me I’ll have at least one hole As quickly as possible, I’ll walk when the bite’s been off and the fish check for depth and bottom compos-
punched over structure before the hole to hole and check for depth and are known to be lethargic, is rocks, ite, then fish. If the fish leave or you
bite starts. to see if there are any fish below be it gravel or large boulders. get a strike but miss, drop your lure
The Lithium 40v Auger with an me with my Lowrance HOOK² Ice The reason? Simple, really. I’m to bottom and let it bounce around.
8-inch cut only weighs 24 pounds, Machine - a portable sonar and GPS looking to get as close to structure The strike that occurs next might
and the 10-inch cut model only made with the avid ice angler in as I can. just rock your world.
weighs 27 pounds, yet has a lot of mind. Mark Martin is a professional
torque. The 8-incher will bore up What I am looking for besides Lured by Lures and Line walleye tournament angler and
to 100 holes on a single charge, fish (obviously) is where hard Overall, when jigging, I use line instructor with the Ice-Fishing
while the 10-incher will slice 70. and soft bottoms meet, especially with very little or no stretch. And Fishing Vacation/Schools (fishing-
Couple its lightness and power with adjacent to a drop off or a hump, as that’s one of many reasons I use vacationschool.com), who lives in
the ultra-sharpness and shape of these borders are what fish will most 12-pound-test Berkley FireLine, the southwest corner of Michigan’s
StrikeMaster’s blades and I’m able often use to swim along. which I use as my main line. To Lower Peninsula. Check out his
to drill holes quickly, efficiently and These areas are easy to find as that, I’ll connect a 1-foot leader of website at markmartins.net for more
quietly; essential in allowing time hard bottom shows up as a thin, Berkley 10-pound-test Fluorocarbon information.n
Next Bite...By Gary Parsons and Keith Kavajecz
Running Rough Water
I
t won’t be long before fisher- is the direction the waves are run- 45-degree turn and talk about quar- will come with experience.
men start to get “the itch.” ning and the second is the equipment tering into the waves. The problem If you make one last turn and run
Cabin fever has set in, the to handle them. Again, the types of with quartering the waves is that they with the waves, you might think it is
ice is getting thin, and they lakes you fish will dictate the amount hit the front side of the boat hard. going to be easy from here on out be-
all know that a great spring of equipment you need to handle the Because the waves are not hitting the cause the waves are pushing behind
bite is just around the corner. types of waves you will come up bottom of the boat first, not only will the boat. In smaller waves that’s the
For many, the “cure” for this itch is against. the waves be hitting hard, but the case, but on big waves each one turns
getting serious about buying a new There are several different water will be pushed ahead and out into jumping ramp. Your boat will
boat or putting something new on directions that you can take a wave right into the wind, so you will be go up and the bow will lift into the
their current boat. on from. The first is going into the running into the spray. air and then come down hard! This is
One thing to consider as you waves. As you are choosing a boat, So, to get a better ride when also where the most potential comes
begin to think about the best boat and you will want to take into consider- quartering waves you’d like to be for spearing the next wave (the bow
additional equipment needed to fit ation if you will be fishing large bod- able to lift the side of the boat that is pushed into – not over the next
your needs is how rough the bodies ies of water such as the Great Lakes. is getting hit. To do this in the past wave). So how do we cope with
of water you fish can get. Having the On lakes like these, there tends to be you would move people around the traveling with the waves? You can
right equipment and knowing how to longer spans between waves, which boat to weigh down the opposite literally try to keep the nose up by
handle the boat in waves is essential means that a 21-foot boat would be side of the boat. A much better ap- trimming the engine up slightly. This
to prevent a pounding and to stay dry best suited for your needs. Shorter proach is the use of trim tabs. We use will help keep your bow on top of
during the ride. boats will handle waves in smaller PowrTran’s Pro Tabs. Trim tabs are the water because the engine is push-
Maintaining control of the boat bodies of water. Now, that doesn’t two plates mounted on the transom, ing it up. You will have to slow down
is critical when you are in waves. mean you can’t take your 18 or 19 they tip down into the water and in this situation though because the
This is where the WavePro boat seat foot boat out in big waves, but as make the bow of the boat tilt one bow will also be pushed higher into
pedestal comes in. These pedestals soon as you can’t span the waves and way or the other. These work won- the air on top of the waves.
absorb the “shock” from the wave as “run the tops” you will have to slow ders because you are able to change Some boats, like the Nitro ZV21
seat goes down, but it has a soft rise down. the left or right attitude of the boat have a very buoyant/wide bow, so
that doesn’t spring you from the seat The other thing you have to without moving people! when it hits the water, it will tend to
on the way back up, allowing you to worry about when running into the The tilt is significant enough to rebound quickly and not spear.
maintain control. waves is keeping the boat as flat as have these quartering waves hit more Now, if your boat tends not to spear
When a lot of people look at possible. The more you can do to of the bottom of the boat. On a boat waves, one way to travel on follow-
boats, especially a deep-v walleye keep the attitude of the boat level, like the ZV19 and ZV21 and even ing waves more quickly is to try to
boat, they worry about hull weight. the better your ability will be to run the aluminum Tracker Targa’s the keep the boat tight on the wave by
However, in rough water, weight is in waves. hulls have built in reverse chines and using trim tabs. In this situation, put
your friend! The boat will stay in the So how do you keep it level? One strakes which throw the water out them both all the way down so the
water and cut the wave instead of thing that all boats have the ability flatter (thus a drier ride) and give the bow follows the wave instead of
hopping it. Even if it cuts off six- to do is trim the engine down. One hull multiple re-entry points (thus a hopping it. You can also raise
inches of the wave, you will have a extra piece of equipment you can softer ride). By tipping the boat with your jack plate a little bit. It should
smoother and drier ride. Be sure if add to your boat is a jack plate. On trim tabs, these hull features can kick be noted if you try to do too much
you are buying a heavier boat you our Nitro ZV21 we use the Atlas HD in and do their thing. by giving it too much horsepower,
are also buying a motor with the Hydraulic Jack Plate to mount our If you turn the boat another you can still spear a wave. You need
maximum horsepower it is rated for. Mercury 350 Verado. 45-degrees you will now be run- to know your boat and the accelera-
The boat is going to need horse- A lot of times when people think ning the troughs (running the waves tion and trim tab combos that work
power to power through waves and of jack plates, they think they are sideways). How well you run the best.
in the worst case scenario, so it won’t used to lift the engine to get it out troughs is really dependent on the Running rough waves takes good
stall as it is traveling up a very large of shallow water or for getting to skill of the driver, because you have driver skill, the right boat and is eas-
wave. top end speed (a couple extra miles to look ahead and see flat spots ier with the aid of some accessories.
To handle a larger engine, good per hour). These are both valid uses between the waves. This is where But no matter what, is also important
transom strength is also important of a jack plate, but we like to use it horsepower comes into play and it is to always wear a PFD while running.
when considering what boat to buy. as a tool to keep the attitude of the why you want max HP on your boat There are a lot of inflatable versions
The new trend in fiberglass boats is boat flat by using the plate to lift the (on our boat it is a 350hp Mercury that fit nicely and will inflate when
to no longer have a wall in the back engine up while keeping the engine Verado), so when we see the hump of you hit the water. In addition, always
to mount the motor on, but instead trimmed under the boat. This is key the wave we can back off, get over it, be sure your kill switch is on when
there is one solid piece to mount because not a lot of people use a jack and then accelerate on the flat spots. running so the boat stops if you find
either the engine or a jack plate for plate for this. It really helps in rough You can also use trim tabs in these yourself in trouble.
the engine. water and more people would buy conditions. Just tweak them down a Remember, you can never be too
When traveling in waves there them if they realized this. little to put the down side away from careful when running the waves on
are two things to consider. The first Now we are going to take a the wave. Learning to run the troughs your way to your Next Bite!n
Che
Met ck Out
a
Lod Lake
Nakina FAC ge On
EBO
OK!
Ontario Canada
LAKE LODGE AND
OUTPOST CAMPS
EXCELLENT
WALLEYE, PIKE &
PERCH FISHING!
"Fly into the Arctic

watershed for
world class
Walleye and
Northern Pike CARIBOU ISLAND &
fishing! Meta
Lake Lodge is CHANNEL VIEW OUTPOSTS
a time tested
full service
wilderness resort
that boasts over an
80% repeat cus-
tomer base. Make
2019 the year you
visit Meta Lake
Lodge or one of
our outpost camps
and experience top
quality Canadian
wilderness
fishing."
Call Toll Free: 24 HR ELECTRICITY (GENERATOR)

1-866-330-META (6382) WIRELESS INTERNET (SATELLITE)
231-464-5179 SKYPE PHONE • LIVE BAIT • GUIDE SERVICE
HOUSE KEEPING AND AMERICAN PLANS ARE AVAILABLE
5766 E. Bennet Road • Free Soil, Michigan 49411
www.metalakelodgefishing.com
Your Hosts, John & Cheryl e-mail: metalakelodge@aol.com EXTENSIVE REFERENCE LIST AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
Bill Brown’s
BIG
BUCK
I
t’s been a stellar year for
harvesting trophy bucks
in Michigan. Just ask Bill
Brown of Lapeer. Listen-
ing to Bill tell the story of
harvesting this great buck,
it becomes very evident that every
one of us can and should learn from
this hunt. Bill harvested his spec-
tacular 177 5/8, 13-point Boone and
Crocket buck on his own property
near Lapeer on December 14 during
Michigan’s muzzleloader season.
Bill first saw this brute on Oc-
tober 2, 2017, and he never gave up
Bill Brown’s buck 13 pointer and has some outstanding character; 6 ½ inch circumference on the
hunting this trophy, even though he bases and brows that were over 8 and 9 inches and tines that almost touch at the tops.
experienced long periods with no pearances at the right time, includ- what buck fever is all about as she saw the buck’s big body and antlers
signs of the big deer. In fact, he never ing dropping part of his rack which was the first to officially shoot the sticking up about 100 yards away
saw the buck during the Bill found in March of last buck, even though it was a camera in some weeds. A wave of emotions
2018 bow or gun season and year, to keep his hopes shot. swept him as he sat in his blind and
had no trail camera pictures up that this buck was still It had to be very difficult to started to pack up to get his hands on
of him. Many hunters would around. In one encounter in sit through the 2018 bow and gun this buck that he had hunted for 14
have probably thought the November of 2017, Bill’s season with neither hide nor hair of months.
big deer was long gone and wife Carmen was headed this buck that had been a common The buck is a main frame 11
settled on a smaller animal. to work and driving down sight on their property in 2017. Bill pointer and has some outstanding
Most of us then would have their driveway when the held out hope that the buck was still character; 6 1/2 inch circumference
spent less time in stand buck stepped out and stood around, telling Carmen, “Those big on the bases and brows that were
once we had one in the in front of her car. deer have great hiding places,” and over 8 and 9 inches respectively
freezer. The odds of
shooting a trophy obvi- By Mark Sak Bill happened to be
in stand that morning
he continued to pass other deer in
hopes the big 13-point would move
really grab attention. The length of
the longest beam was 24 5/8 inches.
ously go way down and watched her hit the back through checking does. The rack is deceivingly big as it has
with less time spent in the stand. brakes and sit in the driveway for a On December 14, it happened. a beautiful curve that almost brings
Bill stated there is a lot of hunt- minute or two. She even took two Mid-Michigan was experiencing the spread of G-2s G-3s and G-4s to-
ing pressure in his area, and he pictures of the buck standing in the several days of moderately foggy gether on top. Bill said the buck de-
doesn’t have a huge tract of land, cut grass along side of the driveway. weather, which is great deer hunting stroyed an eight-inch diameter pine
but the buck made just enough ap- Needless to say, Carmen found out as it makes moving around unde- tree that lined the Brown’s driveway,
tected ideal for both deer and hunter. so those antlers were very functional
Wind is usually close to dead calm as well as beautiful.
on these foggy days which allowed I have to say I am proud to do
Bill to get into his stand without this story for Bill as he is an old
spooking anything. At 8:10 a.m. friend and I have known both Car-
he spotted a doe at approximately men and Bill since grade school in
50 yards. She was walking slowly Imlay City. I have always known Bill
milling about and grazing a bit when to be good natured and he loves to
the big buck came into view. The pull your leg a little. He didn’t let
antlers stood out clearly in the thick anyone down here. Bill jumped down
fog. He also was walking slowly as from his stand and walked back to
Bill got his muzzleloader raised and his house telling Carmen he just
ready. He was tempted to shoot while harvested a small 8-pointer. Carmen
the buck was walking but luckily went back with him to look at the
the buck stopped right in front of a buck and as they walked closer Car-
pine tree giving him a great silhou- men saw the big buck. “You got the
ette and broadside shot in the heavy big one!” Same old Bill. Congrats
fog. He squeezed the trigger and as on the buck of a lifetime and driving
most muzzleloader shots go, he lost home the point that we as hunters
the buck through the smoke of the need to stay patient and focused. We
powder igniting. Bill started scan- will see you in the CBM record book
A comparison of the buck’s shed to this year’s rack. ning the area with his binoculars and my friend.n
World Class
Whitetails
A 5,000 square foot lodge located in
the heart of Michigan’s Northern Lower
Peninsula. We are proud to offer some of
the best whitetail deer in the country. Our
herd consists of several bucks that gross
over the 200” mark, with a few that net
over 200” typical!
For hunters we offer hunt-of-a-lifetime
opportunities.
Our hunts are in a heavily forested area,

located along Lake Huron with Canada
just across the lake to the north east.
800-756-5459 21948 US 23N

www.worldclasswhitetails.com Millersburg, MI 49759
Cover Buck...Back-to-Back Trophy Bucks...2017 and 2018
The Saturday before Thanksgiving

I
t was the Saturday before continued to hunt her river-bottom
Thanksgiving, 2017, when stand and before long it was once
Michigan State University again the Saturday before Thanks-
senior Siana Stanton was giving. Siana naturally remembered
doing what most college her good outcome from the previous
students do who have a pas- year and was hoping to duplicate the
sion for hunting, sneaking in a deer feat in 2018.
hunt while home on break. She was only in her stand for a
Siana was hunting private few minutes before she saw a buck
property in Branch County when approaching. She quickly identified
her proverbial “buck of a lifetime” him to be the wide 8-point from bow
stepped out of thick cover. Even season and thought to herself, “Holy
though she could clearly see that he crap, there he is.” The neighbor had
was a very big buck and she was obviously shot another wide buck.
gripping a Remington 12-gauge Stanton raised her gun and the
shotgun, the buck was well out of buck trotted off in the opposite di-
shooting distance and the anxious rection. Her thoughts now turned to
hunter had to hope that the big buck “Crap, I just blew it. I’m the worst
would close the distance before it hunter in the world.”
got too dark to shoot. Oh, the roller coaster of emo-
After a nerve-rattling hour tions that can develop when a big
of torturous waiting, the heavy- buck walks in and out of one’s life.
antlered brute slowly made his way Fortunately, the buck turned
into a shooting lane in front of the around and started coming directly
college co-ed and she took the shot. back towards her. She quickly got
The massive buck dropped her crosshairs on the buck
in his tracks and Siana and waited for him to give
harvested her once in a her a broadside shot. 2018 Record Book
lifetime buck. This magnifi- He eventually turned 8-point buck
cent 10-pointer carried an slightly and was quartering
incredible amount of mass towards her. Siana pulled
through its heavy wide rack the trigger and made a good
and ended up with a gross hit on the deer’s left side.
score of 150 Boone and She then watched him jump
By Jerry Lambert
Crockett points. over a log along
Fast-forward the river and dis-
to 2018, and appear in thick
Siana, now a college graduate, has cover. She got down, found blood,
a little more time on her hands and and marked the spot.
decides to take up bowhunting. On Her dad heard her shoot, and
the second day of the archery sea- quickly called. Soon thereafter the
son, the novice bowhunter has a doe father-daughter duo took up the
approach her stand and she decides blood trail and one hundred yards
to shoot if given the opportunity. later they walked up on the beauti-
Eventually, the doe is standing fully wide 8-point. This incredible
twenty yards away and Siana draws buck sports an incredible 22 ½-inch
her bow without being detected and inside spread. Who would have
releases an arrow. The shot is good thought that there would be two
and the doe only goes seventy yards. ultra-wide 8-pointers in the same
Siana said, “I wanted to get area?
one deer under my belt to prove to Siana’s 2018 trophy scored close
myself that I could get one with my to her last year’s buck. Whatever
bow. It was a rush and I am now the score, this deer is aesthetically
hooked on bowhunting.” beautiful.
In early November, Siana was Siana had one more blessing
bowhunting along the St. Joe River occur during this year’s deer season.
when she saw a beautiful symmetri- She learned that she got accepted
cal 8-point with an incredibly wide into Michigan State’s Veterinary
spread. This got her blood pumping School. Obviously, she has a strong
and became her number one target love and desire to help animals.
buck. I specifically asked her how she 2017 Record Book
On opening day of shotgun sea- would respond to people who could 10-point buck
son, she had high hopes of shooting be confused with how a future vet-
this buck but news came in that the erinarian could also be a hunter. resulting in a quick humane kill. I is very demanding of one’s time, I
neighbors across the river had shot She responded, “I think that love that hunting is something that am quite confident that Miss Siana
him. Pictures soon confirmed that hunters care about wildlife more my dad and I can do together. It’s Stanton will find a way to make it
the wide 8-point was dead. than anybody. Hunters are true con- so relaxing sitting in nature among out deer hunting the Saturday before
There were other “good” bucks servationists and the ones I know God’s wonderful creatures!” Thanksgiving 2019. Will she have a
observed along the river so Siana all strive to make a good clean shot, Even though veterinary school three-peat? To be continued.n
Mandatory muskie February 16-17
#MiFreeFishingWeekend
harvest registration Ready to experience some of the finest fishing around? Check out the
W
2019 Winter Free Fishing Weekend Saturday, Feb. 16, and Sunday, Feb.
ith Michigan’s ice- helping them better manage those 17. Those two days, everyone – residents and non-residents – can fish
fishing season well fish populations. without a license, though all other fishing regulations still apply.
under way, the DNR The general possession season During this weekend, the DNR also will waive the regular Recre-
reminds anglers who for muskellunge is open through ation Passport requirement for vehicle access to Michigan’s 103 state
harvest a muskellunge that there is March 15 for all Great Lakes and parks. Several locations may be hosting official Winter Free Fishing
mandatory registration. The muskie inland waters and the St. Marys Weekend events perfect for anglers of all skill levels.
harvest limit is one fish per angler River. For more information, check Michigan has celebrated winter’s #MiFreeFishingWeekend every
per license year. out the 2018 Michigan Fishing year since 1994 to build awareness of the state's vast aquatic resources
A muskellunge harvest must Guide at michigan.gov/fishingguide and fishing opportunities. With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes
be reported within 24 hours of the or contact Cory Kovacs, 906-293- shoreline, tens of thousands of miles of rivers and streams, and 11,000
catch. Reports can be made online 5131, ext. 4071 or Elyse Walter, inland lakes, Michigan and fishing are a natural match.
through the DNR’s Harvest Report- 517-284-5839.n Learn more at michigan.gov/freefishing.
ing System (michigan.gov/regis-
terfish), toll-free by calling 844-
345-FISH (3474), or in person at
any DNR Customer Service Center
during normal state business hours
and with advanced notice of arrival.
Fisheries managers use the
registration information to evalu-
ate muskie harvest across the state,
New
smelt
fishing
rules
If you’re fishing for smelt this

year, make sure you know about a
legislative change, signed at the end
of 2018, that alters how anglers can
target smelt in Michigan.
The previous state statute let
people use any number of hooks at-
tached to a single line, while fishing
for smelt, alewife or other bait fish
in the Great Lakes or recognized
smelt waters. Now, anglers fishing
for those species can use no more
than three lines per person, with
no more than six hooks or lures on
G A Y L O R D
all lines. All hooks attached to an
artificial bait or “night crawler har-
MARCH ULTIMATE ellison
ness” are counted as one hook (note:
for crappie/perch rigs and umbrella
15-17 HUNTING place
EXPO2019
rigs, each hook is counted as part of
the total six allowed). This means
anglers may use up to six hooks on
one line or spread the six hooks out g ay l o rd h u nt i n g ex p o.co m
over up to three lines.
For more information on fishing
regulations, see the current Michi-
gan Fishing Guide, available at
fishing license vendors and online at
michigan.gov/fishingguide.n
WINTER
TROUT By Jim Bedford
W
hen the wind is howling, the
temperature is in the single
digits, and the snow is com-
ing down heavy, trout fishing
is usually not on the mind of
even a die-hard river angler.
But every winter we have many days when the air
temperature rises to near freezing or above and The author, Jim Bedford, admires a beautiful winter brown.
the itch to be on a trout stream becomes strong.
Luckily Michigan anglers have lots of trout water Some options are described and, of course, many year. Browns are stocked just below Pontiac and
that is open to year around angling. trout streams also receive runs of steelhead. there are steelhead smolts that didn’t migrate
As I write, this winter has already arrived. We will concentrate on the Lower Peninsula and became resident rainbows along with a few
While there have been some good sized steelhead because often river ice prevents fishing in the UP browns that probably moved down from Paint
this past fall, their numbers have been below par even when the weather breaks. Creek. Like many streams we will describe, the
based on the fishing of my steelhead buddies and The Clinton River in southeast Michigan is Clinton receives a run of steelhead and this is the
myself and the various fishing reports. So if you primarily a warm water stream but the reaches prime reason the river is open all year.
are finding the steelheading slow, it might be time just below Pontiac and the confluence with Paint Moving north on the east side, the Rifle River
to give winter trout fishing a more serious try. Creek down to Ryan Road does hold trout all is open all year for trout fishing below Sage Lake
CALL THE
HOTLINE
REPORT
FERAL
SWINE
TO REPORT FERAL SWINE OR FOR
MORE INFORMATION PLEASE
CALL: USDA WILDLIFE SERVICES AT
517.336.1928
OR
WWW.MICHIGAN.GOV/FERALSWINE
FERAL SWINE
DAMAGE AGRICULTURE,
NATURAL RESOURCES,
PROPERTY, PEOPLE AND
CULTURAL SITES

Road in Ogemaw County. This river is prone to
freezing in the winter but it will open up during
extended thaws, especially the upper reach which
also happens to offer the best trout fishing. The
size limit on all trout is 15 inches. Similar regula-
tions exist on the East Branch of the Au Gres
which flows parallel to the Rifle about 20 miles to
the east. The best trout fishing is found in the first
few miles below M-55, which is the upstream
limit for winter fishing.
All of the flies-only reaches of the Au Sable
and its branches are open to fishing all year.
Catch and release rules are in effect in the winter.
These reaches of the mainstream, North and
South Branches tend to stay ice free except dur-
ing very cold weather. Brook trout are present
in all three and they tend to be a bit more active
than the browns in the cold water.
At the top of the Lower Peninsula there are
three more trout streams open for catch and re-
lease winter brown and brook trout fishing. The
Ocqueoc River in Presque Isle County is open
from Barnhart Lake all the way to Lake Huron.
The best trout fishing is found in its middle reach
but you must wait for mild weather to thaw it out.
Ice is much less of a problem in the Pigeon and A February brown... Michigan anglers have lots of trout water that is open to year-round angling.
Sturgeon Rivers. The Pigeon is open from M-68
down to Mullett Lake in Cheboygan County and Dam south of Dam Road down to Lake Charle- freeze.
offers fishing for browns along with a few brook voix. More water is open on the pristine Jordan The Platte River in Benzie County is open
trout. Just to the west, the Sturgeon River is open River where you can fish from Graves Crossing from the US-31 bridge downstream. There is a
in the winter from Afton Road down to Burt down to the lake. It is catch and release for both good population of resident brown trout between
Lake. Brown trout are the main resident species browns and brookies in these streams but you can the upstream limit and Platte Lake. Single hooks
here but you will also encounter many small keep a rainbow or two for a winter trout dinner. are required here and the browns must be re-
rainbows and maybe a large one that has moved Further south, the Rapid River offers similar leased. Just to the south the Betsie River flows
up from Burt Lake. fishing. It is located just north of Kalkaska and is through Benzie and northern Manistee Coun-
Continuing our counterclockwise circle, two open from Antrim Pond down to its confluence ties. The best trout fishing is found between the
Lake Charlevoix tributaries are open in the win- with the Torch River. All three of these streams
ter. The Boyne River can be fished from the P. H. have strong groundwater influx and seldom from page 24

Steelhead water: from page 23 The Sable River is open in the
winter for catch and release an-
gling downstream from Freesoil
tively easily you can catch browns
in the first few miles below
Hesperia during mild spells. Its
Road with the best fishing near the North Branch is less prone to icing
upstream limit for winter fishing at dam and High Bridge. Large num- upstream limit. The Pere Marquette up and there is catch and release
Kurick Road and U.S. 31. You will bers of browns are planted at Tippy is open to year around fishing below winter angling from Arthur Road to
find browns, rainbows and occasion- and there is a 15 inch size limit. M-37 as is its Big South Branch. its mouth.
al brook trout here. Unlike the upper Upstream there is catch and release It is flies only down to Gleason’s The Muskegon River between
Platte, river ice can be a problem angling for browns and brookies Landing and good trout fishing Croton Dam and Newaygo offers
here when we have prolonged cold in two long sections. It is lures and continues down to Walhalla. Check ice-free conditions for good winter
weather. flies only between County Road the Fishing Guide for special regula- trout fishing. You can keep fish here
There are many miles of water 612 and flies only from M-72 to the tions below Gleason’s Landing. that are over 15 inches in length.
open to the winter angler on the CCC Bridge in Kalkaska County, The mid reach of the Big South Upstream, two of its tributaries, the
Manistee River. The lower river be- while you can use any method Branch offers the best winter catch Little Muskegon River and Tama-
low Tippy Dam is open all year and between U.S. 131 and M-115 in the and release angling for brown trout. rack Creek are open to catch and
the best trout fishing is between the middle part of the river. While the White River freezes rela- release winter trouting.
Moving south there are several
Grand River tributaries that are open
“One-Stop” Service, Sales, Parts, and Supplies! all year. The Rogue River is one of
the best bets and is located north of
Grand Rapids, The best fishing is
in and the few miles just upstream
from Rockford. Crockery, Buck,
Coldwater, Fish, and Prairie Creeks
are smaller tributaries that you can
615 RW Harris Drive fish in the winter for trout. These
are all catch and release and
Manton, Michigan 49663 you should check the regulations
for the sections that are open.
In southwest Michigan the
Dowagiac River is the only sizable
Contact Jason or Kim Lutke stream where you can fish for trout
in the winter. You can keep browns
Phone: 231-824-6655 greater than 15 inches below the
dam near Niles but the upper river is
Fax: 231-824-9421 catch and release. Some additional
small streams where you can wet
a line for trout in the winter in this
www.LutkeEquipment.net part of the state are Augusta and
Portage Creeks and the Gun River
near Kalamazoo.
Lutke offers all types of harvesting like short wood, tree length, Winter water temperatures will
always be below the most active
thinning, clear cuts, and whole tree chipping designed and range for browns and brookies.
But these fish still feed through the
planned for YOUR type of timber and YOUR terrain. winter. Fishing mild periods when
the water temperature is on the rise
is very important to your success.
606 RW Harris Drive Plan your trip for the later part of
www.LutkeEquipment.net a January thaw so that the shelf
Manton, Michigan 49663 ice will be gone or reduced. And,
Great Prices and concentrate your fishing on the
warmest part of the day from mid
Quality Products! Email: lutke_hydraulics@yahoo.com to late morning to late afternoon.
This is one time of year when sunny
Phone: 231.824.9505
days are often better than cloudy
Fax: 231.824.9506 ones. Pick lures or flies that will be
a substantial meal for the trout and
Please Contact give the browns and brookies a long
look at them.
Jim Sutterfield or Always dress in layers, wear a
warm hat, and make sure the top
Lonnell Lutke garment is a wind and waterproof
hooded jacket. Boot foot neoprene
waders are ideal for ice water wad-
ing. Using a wading staff will help
prevent a frigid dunking.
You can get recent information
on stream conditions and fish activ-
ity by calling the DNR Management
Unit for the stream or streams you
are interested in fishing. The phone
numbers are listed in the Michigan
Fishing Guide that you get with
your license. You can also visit the
DNR on the web at www.michi-
gandnr.com.n
Infant
Antlers
B
ucks typically start grow- resemble those by which subsequent
ing their first antlers in sets of antlers are regenerated each
spring, when about 11 year, the process is not an example
months old. However, of regeneration because there has
some buck fawns grow been nothing lost to be replaced…In
prominent pedicles topped with this respect, the fawn’s initial antler
small button (“infant”) antlers less is a unique zoological structure.” Some buck fawns grow prominent pedicles topped with small but-
than one-half inch long, during au- Most buck fawns grow promi- ton (“infant”) antlers less than one-half inch long, during autumn,
tumn, when six or seven months old. nent pedicles by four or five months when six or seven months old.
The infant antlers, which of age. In the wild, how-
are essentially mineralized ever, only five to 10 percent I found the incidence of infant harsh winter season.
tips of the pedicle, are cast of them reportedly grow antlers much higher in Upper Michi- Clearly, infant antlers are indica-
during winter before new polished button antlers. The gan’s Cusino deer enclosure, where tive of an advanced rate of maturity
antler growth starts. incidence of infant antlers 84 percent of the supplementally-fed and achievement of puberty. Only
The growth of infant tends to be considerably buck fawns achieved polished ant- well-nourished buck fawns that
antlers is a process totally higher for well-nourished lers. Unlike in the South, however, achieve some critical threshold
different than antler regen- pen-raised animals. the Michigan fawns polished their level of body weight and testes
eration. “Because it is such Harry Jacobson report- antlers from late November until development ever produce enough
ed that 20 percent
By John Ozoga
a gradual process,” early January, then cast them by late male hormones to accomplish such
says Richard Goss, of the buck fawns February. advanced sexual development.
“it is impossible raised in the deer Reasons for the north to south Those that do so probably exhibit
to pinpoint the exact point when research facilities at Mississippi difference in the timing of infant velvet shedding, limited antler rub-
pedicle growth gives way to antler State University grew infant antlers. antler development is unknown. bing, and other behavior patterns
development. The origin of the first He noted, however, that none of the Quite likely, however, the accelerat- typical of young sexually active
antlers is a phenomenon that is not buck fawns “rubbed out” before the ed physical development of northern bucks. Given the opportunity,
conveniently classified. Although end of January, and most not until fawns is an adaptation that enhances they are probably capable of
the histological events undoubtedly February or March. their prospects for surviving the breeding.n
“Hunt your PASSION, not a price point!”

Central Michigan’s premier hunting destination is waiting for you to make lasting memories, now and for the seasons to come.
Whether hunting for your passion or making

NOW BOOKING memories with those you love, FAMILY
DISCOUNTS
2019 HUNTS! the Refuge Ranch can help you accomplish both.
AVAILABLE
Call today for more information!
Book your hunt today! Paul Wyman (616) 460-8100 The Refuge Ranch
info@therefugeranch.com • HUNTYOURPASSION.COM 9999 – 70th Ave. • Mecosta, MI 49332
By Mark Romanack
Fishing 411 TV
slowly trolled along bottom.
Slow is the operative word here as lethargic
walleye are not in the mood to chase down food
at this point. I like to go as slow as possible and
still keep the spinner blade rotating. The best
speed for triggering strikes from these fish is
about 1.2 to 1.3 MPH on most days.
The early spring bottom bouncer bite is also
a game best played with smaller blade sizes. My
most productive blades are Colorado styles in
sizes 2, 3 and 4. These smaller blades spin well
at slow speeds and seemingly give off the “just
right” amount of flash and vibration to trigger
strikes from post-spawn walleye.
Suspending Fish
The bottom-bite on Lake Erie lasts through-
out the spring and summer months. My experi-
ence suggests that some walleye are always going
to be more comfortable on the bottom. As water
temperatures begin to warm, it becomes obvious
that more and more fish are found suspended in
the water column. In general, suspended fish are
active fish and the fastest bite is normally associ-
ated with these fish.
A bottom bouncer is the single best way to
target bottom loving walleye, but when these
fish opt to suspend in the water column, anglers
have lots of viable options for targeting these
fish. Snap weights are clip-on style trolling sink-
THE
ers that marry up to special line clips produced
by Off Shore Tackle Company. The OR16 snap
weight clip looks like an ordinary pinch pad style
line release, but upon closer scrutiny a small
plastic pin is positioned between two rubber
pads. When the clip is opened and the fishing line
placed behind this pin, the weight is temporarily
‘SPINNER’
pinned in place on the line.
This simple but critically important feature
allows anglers to place the snap weight anyplace
on the fishing line they desire. Separating the
weight from the trailing harness helps to create a
“stealthy” presentation. Where the snap weight
BITE
is placed on the line influences how deep the rig
will fish, but most anglers opt for controlling
fishing depth by simply using different size snap
weights.
Snap weights can be fished directly out the
back of the boat, but this unique slow trolling
presentation comes into its own when combined
with in-line planer boards. An in-line board is an
affordable and easy way to fish two or more snap
weight lines out each side of the boat.
Old and New Twists on the Erie Spinner Scene The weights produced by Off Shore Tackle
T
for use with this trolling system are known as
guppy weights and can be purchased in kits or
hanks to several years of produc- its day, but spinners work day in and day out. sold separately. Guppy weights are added to the
tive year classes, walleye fishing snap weight clip using the provided split ring.
on Lake Erie has never been better. The Bottom Bite The guppy weights can also be used as a “keel
This fisheries is so good in fact, The first spinner bite of the year takes place sinker” by attaching the main line to the front of
fans of walleye fishing are catching on the bottom. Immediately after spawning on the guppy using a small snap and a 60 to 72 inch
their limits on all sorts of lures and the shallow water reefs and in tributary streams, long spinner rig to the tail of these weights with a
live bait presentations. The age old favorite, drift- the larger female walleye move out to the deep snap swivel.
ing and casting weight-forward spinners is even water flats. Anglers who are targeting these fish Snap weights have been on the market for
enjoying a comeback on Erie. don’t have to go far. Some of the best action takes many years and a host of anglers use them rou-
Spinner fishing in its many forms has always place on flats directly adjacent to the most popu- tinely to target suspended walleye with spinner
been and will continue to be one of the best lar spawning reefs. rigs. Tadpole Divers, also produced by Off Shore
ways to target walleye in the spring and summer A lot of this action takes place in Ohio waters Tackle, are resettable diving weights that are
months. The “spinner” bite typically gets going near the Davis Bessie Nuclear Power Facility, but popular among spinner fishermen. The Tadpole
when the water temperatures get to about 50 to post-spawn females can also be caught in Michi- dives and takes the trailing spinner rig along for
55 degrees in late April or May. All summer long gan and Ontario waters. A two or three ounce bot- the ride. Similar to fishing the keel sinker version
spinners continue to be the “go to” presentation tom bouncer sinker matched up to a 40 to 45 inch of the guppy weight, a 60 to 72 inch spinner rig is
of countless anglers who know that every lure has spinner rig is lights out effective when drifted or added to the back of the Tadpole Diver.
Tadpole Divers are molded of non-toxic zinc.
A tow arm is molded into the head of the Tad-
pole. A round snap is in turn tied to the main line
and clipped onto this tow arm of the Tadpole.
When the snap slides into the elbow of the tow
arm the Tadpole will dive much like a crankbait
dives. When a fish is hooked, the snap slides
to the forward position on the tow arm and the
Tadpole stops diving and starts planing towards
the surface.
This unique design not only prevents anglers
from having to fight the diver while fighting fish,
if the fish escapes during the fight, the Tadpole
can be reset simply by giving it some slack line.
When fishing with spinner rigs it’s always a good
idea to reel in the Tadpole and check the bait if a
fish escapes. When using other lures like spoons
and shallow diving crankbaits, the resettable fea-
ture on the Tadpole comes in very handy.
Like snap weights, the Tadpole fishes best
when used in combination with in-line boards
used to spread out lines and cover the maximum
amount of water. Tadpole Divers are used like
snap weights to saturate the water column with
gear. The biggest difference between these two
bait delivery systems is the Tadpole is actually
diving, so they achieve more depth with less
line out than snap weights which simply achieve
depth based on lead length, weight size and troll-
ing speed. The first warm days of spring put post-spawn walleye on the bite and nothing catches
more fish than spinner rigs. Jake Romanack of Fishing 411 TV shows off a pair of Erie
How Deep Does That Dive? walleye that got too close to his custom tied spinner rigs. Mark Romanack photos
If this conversation regarding snap weights
and Tadpole Divers leaves you wondering how rigged as a segment or pre-determined amount lected. A little known fact about lead core trolling
deep does this stuff fish, the answer to that of sinking line tied between a backing line and is that by simply playing out more backing line,
always important trolling question is available a leader material. Modern lead core fishermen a modest lead core rig can be fished much deeper
in an affordable phone app known as Precision don’t agree on the best backing line options. Both than most anglers realize.
Trolling Data, LLC. Precision Trolling uses scuba super braids and monofilament can be used as For example a two color lead core rig that
gear and tactics to visually confirm how deep var- backing line. runs on average about 12 to 15 feet down can
ious lures and trolling gear are fishing on select Fans of super braids state that these lines are be made to fish 20 feet down by simply playing
lead lengths and trolling speeds. All the common thinner in diameter allowing more backing line to out more backing line. Using a line counter reel,
sizes of the snap weight and Tadpole Divers are be spooled onto smaller “walleye friendly” reels these longer lengths of backing line can be ac-
included in this handy phone app that is available than possible with monofilament. Proponents of curately monitored and duplicated.
for sale at the Google Play and iTunes stores for monofilament line fire back that monofilament The multi-species angler can rig up lead core
Android and iPhone users respectively. is less expensive and more user friendly to the segments that are not only productive for trolling
App users can purchase individual “Dive planer board releases commonly used in open spinner rigs for walleye, these same set ups can
Curves” for select lures or devices for a nominal water trolling applications. be used for targeting trout and salmon. Rather
fee. Precision Trolling Data also sells a more ex- The most common segmented lead core rigs than having “walleye” and “salmon” lead core set
pensive “Lifetime Package” that includes all the include 2, 3 4 and 5 color segments. It’s best to ups, I use 20 pound test monofilament as backing
data currently available in the app, plus published run a 2 and 4 color set up on one side of the boat line and 20 pound test fluorocarbon as leader ma-
updates are offered at no additional fee. Currently and the 3 and 5 color on the other. Setting the terial on 27 pound test lead core. This allows me
the PTD app has over 850 Dive Curves for a host shallower running 2 and 3 color rigs respectively to fish the same lead core rigs for walleye, trout,
of lures and popular trolling gear. To learn more on the outside board lines, makes it possible to salmon and steelhead without the need to make
about this app visit the www.precisiontrolling- hook a fish on an outside board line and reel in any modifications.
that fish without having to clear the inside board
data.com web page.
line. This is possible because the shallower run- A Word on Blades
A Few New Twists ning outside line will pass over top of the deeper Walleye fishermen tend to live and die by one
blade design. The Colorado blade is hands down
Bottom bouncers, snap weights and Tadpole running inside line.
Divers are all very popular and productive ways Lead core is a fish catching system, but not the most popular blade shape among walleye
to target open water walleye. Using lead core without limitations. Fishing with segmented lead fishermen. The No. 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are the most
line is yet another way that anglers can get their core requires designating reels to that specific popular sizes, but there are many other blade
favorite spinner rigs to depth. Lead core is a sink- presentation, which of course requires a greater types that can help anglers catch more fish. On
ing line that features a soft lead wire core, with a investment in trolling reels. Line counter reels my boat I carry a wide assortment of Colorado
braided line coating that gives the line strength. are not necessary for fishing segmented lead core blades in different sizes and colors. I also carry
Like monofilament lines, lead core comes in in most circumstances because each reel has a a smaller assortment of Indiana blades, Willow
various break strengths. For walleye fishing ap- pre-determined amount of line spooled. Instead, style blades and Spin-N-Glo bodies for different
plications the 18 and 27 pound test sizes are the less expensive round-frame style level wind reels trolling applications.
most popular. Lead core line is “metered” by us- are often the most popular choice for lead core The Colorado blade does a very nice job
ing color bands every 10 yards so that anglers can trolling. when trolled from 1.2 to about 1.6 MPH. If troll-
easily determine how much line they are deploy- A line counter reel can be handy for some ing speeds exceed 1.6 MPH a Colorado blade
ing. Often referred to as “colors” a filler spool of unique lead core trolling applications. Lead core is going to start rolling and creating line twist
lead core contains 10 colors or 100 yards of line. line achieves diving depth based on how much
The most efficient way to fish lead core is line is deployed and also the trolling speed se- The ‘Spinner’ Bite page 28
The ‘Spinner’ Bite:
from page 27
issues. On a recent filming adventure in
For slightly faster trolling Lake Erie our Fishing 411 TV staff
applications ranging from 1.6 to noticed that using double blade rigs
2.0 MPH the more narrow shaped produced fewer bites, but the fish
Indiana blade in the same sizes are we were catching were larger than
an excellent choice. Willow blades rigs with single blades. “It’s hard to
can be trolled at even greater speeds say that double blade rigs will al-
ranging from 1.6 to 2.5 MPH with- ways produce bigger fish, but based
out line twist issues. on our experience it sure seems
At the other extreme, if troll- like a safe bet,” says Captain Jake The author’s boat is ideally set up at the back for spinner trolling
ing super slow is needed to trigger Romanack of Fishing 411. “Our best applications. Spinner trolling is a game that can be as slow as 1.2
strikes, nothing beats the iconic double blade set ups were custom mph or as fast as 2.5 mph depending on the situation and blades
Yakima Bait Spin-N-Glo. A Spin- tied harnesses using blades we being incorporated.
N-Glo is a foam body with mylar robbed from Rooster Tail Spinners.
wings that spins at the slowest pos- The nice thing about Rooster Tail ensures those fish will end up in the the sharpness category. Lazer Sharp
sible speeds. Available in a ton of blades is they are genuine silver and boat.” octopus hooks are also available in
different sizes and colors, walleye gold plated so they have maximum Open water spinner rigs fall into a host of color options. The pow-
fishermen will find that the No. 8, 6 flash.” two categories. Rigs equipped with der coating finish on these hooks is
two No. 2 size octopus style hooks more durable than anodized hooks,
and 4 sizes are ideal for slow troll-
ing applications. Roll Your Own are best when fishing the bottom giving walleye fishermen lots of
A lot of fishermen prefer to tie with bottom bouncers. When target- choices when it comes to adding a
If One is Good... up their own custom spinner rigs. ing suspended fish, a harness that touch of color and that custom look
A growing number of anglers are The ability to select specific pre- features a No. 2 octopus hook in the to their harnesses.
using multiple blades on their wall- mium quality blade types, finishes front and a No. 6 treble hook at the
eye trolling harnesses. I guess the and hooks is huge for those who back do a better job of landing the Summing It Up
theory is that if one blade is good take great pride in creating their fish that bite. Walleye fishing and spinners are
than two blades must be better? own rigs. Hands down the Eagle Claw a match made in heaven on Lake
Creating more flash and vibration by “The blade and the hooks are Trokar has the sharpest octopus Erie and just about anywhere else
adding a second blade to a walleye the two most important parts of any and treble hooks on the market. walleye are abundant. Nothing is
harness makes sense when fishing spinner harness,” says Captain Jake. Described as “surgically” sharp, the more basic than spinner rigs, but
in turbid waters or when fishing at “Premium blade finishes make a Trokar hooks are wicked sharp. these days, anglers are fishing spin-
deeper depths where light penetra- huge difference in how many bites The Lazer Sharp series of oc- ners in more creative ways than ever
tion is limited. we get and using the right hooks topus hooks are a close second in before.n

24 New COs
T
wenty-four new conservation selects the most highly qualified candi-
officers have joined the ranks dates to receive additional training that
of some of the most highly no other law enforcement agency in the
trained law enforcement pro- state offers. Our officers are molded into
fessionals in Michigan. quality people who are embedded within
One of the most selective law the communities they serve.”
enforcement academies in Michigan, “Conservation officers must be hon-
the Michigan Department of Natu- est with their actions and with the pub-
ral Resources Conservation Officer lic, passionate about helping Michigan’s Twenty-four new Michigan COs graduated in December.
Academy held graduation in December natural resources and humble in their
at the Michigan State Police Training authority as an officer,” said Conserva- heritage that I was taught at a young age several trips to specialized training loca-
Academy in Lansing. Thirty candidates tion Officer Anna Cullen, a Recruit – especially today, with technology con- tions throughout Michigan, including the
initially were selected from nearly 500 School #9 graduate. suming most young people’s time,” said Camp Grayling Training Center, the GM
applicants to be a part of Recruit School While their primary mission is to Conservation Officer Jesse Grzechows- Proving Grounds in Milford and Ingham
#9 – the DNR’s 23-week training acad- enforce fish, game and natural resource ki, a Recruit School #9 graduate. County Jail, in addition to completing
emy. protection laws, conservation officers The academy began each morn- scenario testing at several parks.
“This is the hardest academy in the serve a unique role as certified peace ing with physical training, building the Next month, Michigan’s newest
state of Michigan – not many people get officers with authority to enforce all of recruits’ strength to prepare them for conservation officers will begin their
selected and fewer make it through,” Michigan’s criminal laws. Because of physical fitness testing and the career probationary field training, partnered
said Conservation Officer Timothy Bar- their specialized training and versatility, demands of a conservation officer. with veteran officers, and receive addi-
boza, a Recruit School #9 graduate. conservation officers often are first re- Following physical training and room tional training prior to reporting to their
The graduating six women and 18 sponders to situations involving medical inspections, recruits received classroom permanent county assignments.
men were challenged mentally and emergencies, missing persons and public instruction and various skills training. “There are people who have lived in
physically as they underwent training to safety threats. Each week recruits were tested through a county for generations and know more
qualify for the Michigan Commission “This job will give me the oppor- both written exam and mock scenarios. about it than a new conservation officer
on Law Enforcement Standards testing, tunity to talk to people who have been In the scenario testing, recruits entered would,” said Recruit School #9 graduate
in addition to specialized training in hunting and fishing for longer than I staged situations in which they had Nathan Beelman. “These contacts can
conservation law. have been alive and learn from them,” to demonstrate their learned skills to be a good way to learn about my new
“Conservation officers have chosen to Barboza said. “It will also allow me to resolve a conflict. community.”
not only protect our people and local help improve the public’s view of law The academy involved off-road Founded in 1887, the DNR Law
communities as first responders – they enforcement.” training to operate specialized vehicles, Enforcement Division is Michigan’s
have devoted their career to being front- “I am very passionate about being such as four-wheel-drive trucks, ORVs oldest statewide law enforcement
line defenders of our natural resources,” able to teach younger generations to and patrol boats – everyday tools used agency. Learn more about the work of
said Chief Gary Hagler, DNR Law enjoy and respect our natural resources, by conservation officers to patrol Michi- conservation officers at michigan.gov/
Enforcement Division. “Our division as well as passing on the traditions and gan’s natural resources. Recruits took conservationofficers.n
Randy’s Hunting Center

EXCLUSIVE
77 Hawkeye 450 Bushmaster
“STAINLESS” Walnut
VALID TIL 12/31/2016
%
Three position safety, controlled round feed, BURDICK STREET EQUIPMENT
10 10OFF
%
OFF
Must present ad to Must
receive offer.
present
See dealer
ad toOffer
offerfordetails
complete
subject
receive to change
offer. Offer
offer
ONE ATTACHMENT
WITH ONE
NEW CUB
ATTACHMENT
PURCHASE
orchange
subject to
OF
WITH PURCHASE
cancellation
details and restrictions.
CADET RIDER
NEW CUB CADET RIDER
without
or cancellation
OF
notice.
without notice.
10%1
full length extractor, what an elegant rifle!
See dealer for complete and restrictions.
OXFORD Must present ad to M

r
BURDICK STREET EQUIPMENT
BURDICKSTREET.COM
VALID TIL 12/31/2016 See dealer for compS
OXFORD VALID%
TILVALID TIL 12/31/2016
12/31/2016 PARTS & LABOR
10 OFF
%10%% OFFONEPARTS
(ONE SERVICE VISIT)
BURDICKSTREET.COM & LABOR
$ 10 10OFF ATTACHMENT
899.99
Must present ad to receive offer. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice.
%1
FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 15 MILES See dealer for complete offer details and restrictions.
(ONE SERVICE VISIT)
% OFF
VALIDWITH PURCHASE OF
TIL 12/31/2016 ONE ATTACHMENT
FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 3 MILES
FREE DELIVERY
OXFORDFREE
FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 15Must
DELIVERY
Burdick WITHIN
WITHIN
Street Equipment
MILES
315
Must present ad to receive offer. Offer subject to change
present ad to Must
receive offer.
present
MILES
ad toOffer subject
receive
%
MILES NEW CUB
to change
offer. Offer
See dealer for complete offer details and restrictions.
NEW CUB
WITH ONE
WITH
ONE
VALIDNEW
subject toorchange
cancellation
PURCHASE
or cancellation
CADET
10 10OFF
CUB CADET RIDER
TIL 12/31/2016
without
or cancellation
PURCHASE ATTACHMENT
WITH PURCHASE
CADET RIDER
NEW CUB CADET RIDER
without
OF
OFF
OF
OF
without notice.
RIDER
ATTACHMENT
notice.
notice.
See dealer for complete offer details and restrictions. 10 M
S
Must present ad to r
See dealer for comp
See dealer for complete offer detailsVALID
and restrictions. See dealer for complete offer details and restrictions.
TIL 12/31/2016
BURDICKSTREET.COMOXFORD
Over 190 different exclusive VALID 43 East Burdick St. Oxford, MI 48371
VALID TILTIL 2/28/19
12/31/2016
BURDICKSTREET.COM
248-969-2800 Burdick
%VALID
VALID TILTIL
Street
ONE ATTACHMENT• burdickstreet.com
% 10 OFF(ONEPARTS
2/28/19
12/31/2016 PARTS & LABOR
&Equipment 10 OFF VALID TIL 12/31/2016
10%10OFF
SERVICE VISIT)
%
10 10OFF
PARTS LABOR
& LABOR
Ruger models in 450 Bushmaster

% %
(ONE SERVICE VISIT)
FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 15 MILES WITH ONE
OFF ATTACHMENT
PURCHASE OF
OFF
PARTS & LABOR See dealer for complete offer details and restrictions.
WITH PURCHASE OF
FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 15 NEWMILES
NEW CUB CADET RIDER 43 East Burdick St.
(ONE Oxford,
SERVICE VISIT)
(ONE SERVICE VISIT)
MI 4 Must present ad to receive offer. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice.
FREE DELIVERY
FREEWITHIN 3 MILES
CUB CADET RIDER
248-969-2800 • burdickstreet.c
Must present ad to Must
receive offer.
ad toOffer subject to change
subject toorchange
cancellation without notice. Must present ad to receive offer. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice.
3,000 ON HAND
BURDICK STREET EQUIPMENT DELIVERY WITHIN 3 MILES
present receive offer. Offer or cancellation without notice.
See dealer
See dealer for complete offerfordetails
complete offer
and details and restrictions.
restrictions. Must present
See dealer for complete offeraddetails
to receive
andoffer. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice.
restrictions.
OXFORD
BURDICKSTREET.COM
10Burdick
%
OFF Street
Burdick
PARTS Equipment
Street
& LABOR Equipment
%
(ONE SERVICE VISIT)
Randy’s Hunting Center
FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 15 MILES
721DELIVERY
FREE E. Huron WITHIN Ave.3 MILES
10 OFF
43 East Burdick St.VISIT)
(ONE SERVICE
248-969-2800
PARTSBurdick
43 East
Oxford, MI 48371 & LABORSt. Oxford, MI 48371
• burdickstreet.com
248-969-2800 • burdickstreet.com
Bad Axe, MI 48413

(989) 269-GUNS Burdick (4867)Street Equipment
www.randyhuntingcenter.com
43 East Burdick St. Oxford, MI 48371
248-969-2800 • burdickstreet.com WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2019 29
Forest Warrior or Suburban Feeder Flirt?
BLACK-CAPPED
CHICKADEE:
O
ur boisterous black- any habitat that has trees or woody
capped chickadees shrubs, from hardwood forest and
are well adapted cedar swamps and cattail marshes
to life in the deep to residential neighborhoods with
winter parks and golf courses, and
woods they are not strangers to ur-
of northern Michigan and ban lots with weedy fields.
quite comfortable living a With the arrival of the
suburban lifestyle. Some snows of winter they seem
of these inquisitive little to favor mixed deciduous-
birds have never even seen evergreen forests, espe- Patience may be necessary but it won’t take long for these clever and
a human, while others think cially near trailside forest inquisitive birds to fly in for a snack right from your hand. Author photo
nothing of landing on a edge; but perhaps I say that the matter is clear; chickadees are snack on frozen berries and search
human hand to snack on because that’s a habitat I of- opportunists when it comes to habi- out the eggs and pupa of insects
sunflower
seeds. The By Jonathan Schechter ten wander
in winter
tat and housing opportunities and
Michigan is very much their home.
and explore nooks and crannies in
search of seeds they cached away
secret of and share Small flocks of black-capped earlier. Even a decaying deer carcass
their success is adaptability and their companionship. chickadees, also known as bandit- is treat to tear at, a feast often shared
inquisitiveness, and during the cold When spring arrives, the hollows ries, enliven our winter woods with with eagles and coyotes. Chicka-
months a few tricks bestowed upon in cottonwoods, birch trees and the cheery-sounding chick-a-dee-dee dees of course are common diners
them through eons of evolution. abundance of dead and dying ash call notes as they fly from tree to at bird feeders and display a clear
Chickadees may be found in trees beckons for nesting. Fact of tree and hop about the branches to preference for black-oiled sunflower
BE READY THIS
SEASON!!
517.617.6786
Steven L. Lamier huntin.it.info@gmail.com
Owner/President www.huntin-it.com
Come see us for Banks outdoor blinds
Manufacturer of Fine Northern Hardwoods
Firewood
Buyers of by the Semi-Load
Standing Timber
and gravity feeders
Buyers of Standing Timber
SFI Trained Loggers and Forest Consultants
SFI Trained Loggers and Forest Consultants
Wildlife and
Wildlife andTimberland Improvements
Timberland Improvements Call us at:
Select Cutting;
Select
Mechanized
Clear
cutting; Clear
logging and
cutting
cutting
handcutting
Mechanized logging and handcutting
517-617-6786
Contact
Contact one
one of our buyers
buyerstoday
today
of our
brad@billsbylumber.com or jim@billsbylumber.com
brad@billsbylumber.com or (989)
jim@billsbylumber.com
Huntin-It, LLC
(616) 634-1522 or 544-9342 9851 West
2725 Larch Rd. • Harrison, MI 48625
(616) 634-1522 or (989) 544-9342
Territorial Road
2725 Larch Rd.
www.billsbylumber.com
Montgomery, MI 49255
FIREWOOD BY T H E
Harrison, MI 48625
(East of Clear Lake, IN)
www.billsbylumber.com
SEMI-LOAD WWW.HUNTIN-IT.COM
30 FEBRUARY 2019 WNW NEWS HuntinIt_70824 Hunting Guide 6/29/17 dr/dr/dr KPC Media Group PROOF
Corrections must be made by 2:00
Full Page #43 Machele 4-COLOR p.m. Thursday, June 22 or ad will be
assumed correct and run as is.
seeds and suet and provide endless studied bird biology and behavior down in abandoned woodpecker nouncements of “chickadee-dee-
entertainment to humans as they for more than a quarter century at nesting cavities, knotholes on the dee” while other times they sound
feed on suet clinging to it sidewise Cornell University and Mount Holy- leeward side of trees and nesting off in a boisterous fashion as if they
or sometimes hanging upside down oke College, explained it this way to boxes built for other species. And are locked in a room with dozens of
to dine. the National Wildlife Federation in a they sometimes excavate their own hungry high-strung house cats. One
And for those who doubt their 2007 interview that still holds true. shelter in soft rotten wood for both thing is certain; when chickadees
inquisitive nature, simply find “Carefully hidden food items, dense winter roosting and spring nest- are moving about in small flocks
yourself a quiet spot in the wood- winter coats, specially selected ing. During mild winter nights, and singing their song, look to see
lands, or near a feeder that is almost winter roost cavities and, perhaps flocks may hunker down in thickets, what they see, for they pay close at-
empty, and hold your hand out with most remarkable of all, the ability swales and cedar groves that offer tention to their surroundings and are
a handful of seeds. Patience may be to go into nightly hypothermia, thus shelter from the winds, but when the rarely silent when two legged, four
necessary but it won’t take long for conserving large amounts of en- mercury really plunges they tend to legged or larger winged creatures
these clever and inquisitive birds to ergy, greatly increase the chances of sleep alone in whatever cavity they enter their habitat. Nature-savvy
fly in for a snack. The feeling of tiny survival.” Smith went on to explain can find. tree stand archers take note that
claws clinging to fingers or resting that the chickadee’s ability to go Walk the snowy woods of chickadees announce the presence
on the palm of the hand is unforget- into regulated hypothermia– some- Michigan in chickadee habitat, of almost all wildlife, be it an opos-
table. times referred to as a state of torpor– and that is most anywhere in sum strolling on a sunny winter
Winter is taken in stride by these enables it to actually lower its body Michigan, and observant follow- day, a Cooper’s hawk at the forest’s
hardy birds for they are well dressed temperature, in a controlled manner, ers of nature’s way are sure to hear edge, or the proverbial ‘monster’
for the occasion with the ability to to about 12 or 15 degrees F below their characteristic chick-a-dee call buck scratching about for acorns
puff out their plumage, giving the its normal daytime temperature of notes as the dawn of February draws or stretching upwards to browse on
impression they need to go on a diet. 108 degrees F. “This allows the bird near. Some naturalists claim that the white cedar.
That’s a heat conserving mechanism to conserve almost 25 percent of its intensities and number of ‘dees’ – One fact needs to be confirmed;
with air trapped around the downy hourly metabolic expenditure when the end notes of the chickadee’s call our blusterous black-capped chicka-
feathers which increases insulation the outside temperature is at freez- – indicate how dangerous a preda- dees are not the fluffy little subur-
and prevents the loss of body heat. ing.” The lower the outside temper- tor may be with more ‘dees,’ such ban feeder wimps that some people
When darkness falls and the woods ature, Smith found, the more energy as in “chickadee-dee-dee-dee-dee,” claim. They are in fact mighty
fall silent - except perhaps for the the bird conserved. an indication of a more threatening forest warriors of the woodlands of
hoot of owls and yips of coyotes With winters in Michigan warm- danger. Michigan.
- they settle in for the evening. ing, and their habitat opportunities I remain skeptical of that fact, Jonathan Schechter is a natural-
Outdoor adventurers, birders and expanding because of our land use for I have trudged through cedar ist living in Oakland County who
biologists often wonder how these practices, the black-capped chicka- swamps thick with chickadees and spends far too much time wandering
tiny birds do more than just survive dees in our midst will continue to sometimes the chickadees barely the winter woods of Michigan in
in winter—they thrive. thrive as long as they find sheltered pay any attention to me and let me the accompaniment of chickadees.
Biologist Susan M. Smith, who roosting sites. Many of them hunker pass with just a few cheerful an- Email: Oaknature@aol.comn
JOE THOMAS PRO SERIES ROOSTER TAIL

®
DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY
FOR BASS Classic Rooster Tail w/HD

Split Ring & Pre-Sharpened
Black Nickel Hook
Pulsating Hackle/Tinsel
Dressed Hook Attracts Fish
Genuine Silver,
Brass and/or
Painted Blades
Save big when you bundle a Mahindra tractor with

Mahindra implements. Or, enjoy special year-end financing!
SAVE UP TO 0 DOWN
9,600
$ 0% INTEREST or
72 MONTHS
Save big when you bundle a Mahindra tractor with
This new Rooster Tail was designed with
Mahindra implements.
when you Or,
Save TRACTOR
SMITH big enjoy
bundle special year-end
a Mahindra tractorfinancing!
with
input from professional angler Joe Thomas
SAVE UP TO 0 DOWN
0000 Street Name .Town Name
and built specifically for bass and schooling Mahindra implements.
000.000.0000 Or, enjoy special
.dealersite.com year-end financing!
9,600
stripers. Special components make it extra
$ 0% INTEREST
Customer savings of up to $9,600 off MSRP are available on qualif ying cash or standard rate finance
SAVE UP TO
strong to handle the toughest fish, and it features all the bundle is
a Mahindra
Save big when
tractoryou
with
bundle aSave
Mahindra
or
purchases of select new Mahindra Tractors from participating dealers’ stock inventory when bundled with
Saveimplements.
big when youRebate big when
tractor
you bundle
withfinancing.
a Mahindra tractor with
0 MONTHS
DOWN
select not available with 0% A.P.R. or other promotional Some exceptions
72
apply. Offer expires 3/31/19. See us or go to MahindraUSA.com for more information. Optional equipment
9,600
Mahindra implements. Or, enjoy
Mahindra
specialimplements.
year-end financing!
Or, enjoy
Mahindra
special
implements.
year-end financing!
Or, enjoy special year-end financing!
attributes that make Rooster Tail so productive. Available in two sizes, may be shown.
½ and ¾ ounce for long casts and fast retrieves, the Joe Thomas Series
$ SAVE UP TO or 0% INTEREST
SAVE UP TO SAVE
0 DOWN UP TO
0 DOWN 0 DOWN
9,600 $or 0% INTEREST

9,6009,600
Rooster Tail comes in 12 finishes hand-selected by Joe Thomas. $ or 0% INTEREST
$Ellens Equipment or 0% INTEREST
72 MONTHS 72 MONTHS
72 MONTHS
5297 W Stoney Corners Rd • McBain MI 49657
72 MONTHS MahindraUSA.com © 2019 Mahindra USA Inc.
SMITH TRACTOR SMITH TRACTOR 231-825-2416

SMITH TRACTOR
0000 Street Name .Town 0000
Name Street Name .Town Street Name .Town Name
000.000.0000 .dealersite.com www.ellensequipment.com
0000
Name
000.000.0000 .dealersite.com
Customer
SMITH TRACTOR
participating
savings
Customer savings oftoup$9,600
of up
dealers’
select implements.
to $9,600
Rebatestock
off MSRP
inventory
is not available
offareMSRP
when
with 0%
areonavailable
available
Customer
purchases of select new Mahindra Tractors from participating
bundled
A.P.R.
select or
qualifying
savings of
purchases dealers’
with
implements.
ontoorinventory
cash
up
of selectstock
qualifying
select
other promotional
Rebate
$9,600
standard
new Mahindra
is
cash
offrate
MSRP
Tractors
implements.
financing.
not available
Somewith
orpurchases
finance
when bundled
are
from
standard
Customer
available
with
Rebate
exceptions
0%
select
A.P.R.
on rate
savings
participating
of finance
qualifying
of select
dealers’
orisother
implements.
upcash
new stock
or purchases
to $9,600
standard
Mahindra
notforpromotional
available
off MSRP
inventory
Rebate is not
Tractors
with
of
rateare
whenfrom
0%
financing.
available
select
availablenew
finance
bundled
A.P.R.
Some
with 0%
participating
with
or other
exceptions
A.P.R.
Mahindra
on qualifying Tractors
cash or standard from
rate finance
dealers’ stock inventory when bundled with
promotional
or other financing.
promotional financing. Some Some
exceptions
0000 Street Name .Town Name

apply. Offer expires 3/31/19. See us or go to MahindraUSA.com
apply. Offer expires
for more
3/31/19.
information.
See usOptional
or go toequipment
MahindraUSA.com
apply. Offer expires 3/31/19.
more information.
See us orOptional
go to MahindraUSA.com
equipment for more information. Optional equipment
exceptions
may be shown.apply. Offer expires 3/31/19. See may beusshown.
or go to MahindraUSA.com formaymore information. Optional equipment may be shown.
be shown.
MahindraUSA.com © 2019 Mahindra USA Inc. MahindraUSA.com © 2019 Mahindra USA Inc. MahindraUSA.com © 2019 Mahindra USA Inc.
Customer savings of up to $9,600 off MSRP are available on qualifying cash or standard rate finance
WNW
purchases of select new Mahindra Tractors from participating dealers’ stock NEWS
inventory whenFEBRUARY 2019
bundled with 31
select implements. Rebate is not available with 0% A.P.R. or other promotional financing. Some exceptions
apply. Offer expires 3/31/19. See us or go to MahindraUSA.com for more information. Optional equipment
may be shown.
MUCC report…Michigan is Number One!
Jobs created from hunting, fishing purchases
Statewide economic impact supports 171,000 jobs, generates $11.2 billion annually!
A
first-of-its-kind study booking hotel rooms, buying meals
released Monday by and more.
Michigan United Con- “This is information the conser-
servation Clubs shows vation community has long needed
Michigan ranks first to improve our understanding of
among the Great Lakes the financial importance of outdoor
states for jobs created from hunting- recreation,” Eichinger said. “MUCC,
and fishing-related purchases – and Michigan State University and the
generates more than $11.2 billion C. S. Mott Foundation deserve credit
annually. for their valuable scholarship that
The data also show 171,000 jobs quantifies more clearly than ever
are created and supported annually how hunting and fishing are essential
across Michigan by hunting and fish- ingredients in Michigan’s diverse
ing, putting those related activities economic stew.”
in the top 10 percent of the state’s The report shows that for every $1
job-creation industries. The greatest million spent on hunting- and fishing-
impact occurs in Southeast Michigan. related purchases in Michigan, 19.61
The economic overall effect is and in the future,” said Amy Trotter, news media teleconference that jobs are created for state residents.
more than twice as much as previ- MUCC executive director. included Trotter; Eichinger; Dennis Michigan tops the Great Lakes states
ous estimates from the U.S. Fish and Findings from the MUCC-MSU Eade, executive director of the Michi- by this measurement, followed by:
Wildlife Service, according to the study were released during a news gan Steelhead and Salmon Fisher- • Ohio, where every $1 million
report. conference at MSU’s Demmer Center men’s Association and a member of spent on hunting- and fishing-related
Michigan United Conservation in Lansing that in addition to Trotter the Tourism Industry Coalition of purchases creates 19.58 jobs
Clubs commissioned the ground- was attended by Michigan Depart- Michigan; state Rep. Gary Howell, • Minnesota, where every $1 mil-
breaking study in partnership with ment of Natural Resources Director R-North Branch, chair of the House lion spent creates 19.48 jobs
the Michigan State University Eli Daniel Eichinger; state Sen. Curtis Natural Resources Committee; and • Pennsylvania, where every $1
Broad College of Business and with Hertel Jr., D-East Lansing; Bill state Rep. Leslie Love, D-Detroit, million spent creates 19.35 jobs
funding support from the C. S. Mott Demmer, director of MSU’s interna- co-chair of the Michigan Legislative • New York, where every $1 mil-
Foundation. The project’s goal was to tionally acclaimed sports shooting Sportsmen’s Caucus. lion spent creates 18.89 jobs
more accurately quantify the impact training facility that was the site of The MUCC report is believed to • Indiana, where every $1 million
sportsmen and sportswomen have on the news conference; Jeff Poet, presi- be the most comprehensive effort to spent creates 15.13 jobs
Michigan’s economic well-being. dent and co-owner of Jay’s Sporting date measuring the annual statewide • Illinois, where every $1 million
“The research results reflect that Goods and a member of the Michi- economic impact by Michigan’s spent creates 15.03 jobs, and
the economic benefits for local com- gan Wildlife Council; and leaders in 700,000 hunters and 1.1 million • Wisconsin, where every $1 mil-
munities in every region of the state Michigan’s business, conservation anglers: $8.9 billion from hunting and lion spent creates 15.01 jobs
by those who hunt and fish are vital to and tourism sectors. $2.3 billion from fishing stemming Previous estimates in Michigan
continuing Michigan’s prosperity now MUCC also hosted an afternoon from purchasing gear and clothing, and other states are based on a nar-
row formula that was applied most
www.ROOSTERRANCH.com recently in 2011. Those estimates
were derived from survey results of
Open Since 1987 just 187 Michigan households and
showed hunting and fishing contribut-
ed $4.7 billion annually to Michigan’s
economy and supported 72,000 jobs.
The MUCC report is based on
2016 spending data and uses a new,
LLC. state-of-the-art economic modeling
7480 Germania Road • Ubly, Michigan 48475
formula to clarify in more precise
Visit us on the Web: WWW.roosterranch.COM detail the contributions of hunting and
989-658-2332 fishing to Michigan’s economy. The
findings are based on a more robust
No Membership Required!
analysis of data from the DNR and
OPEN August 15, 2018 – April 30, 2019 the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Inspired by the report, members of
Field and European Hunts! European Hunt Dates: Michigan’s conservation, small busi-
ness, tourism and legislative sectors
 Pheasant and Mallard –Saturday, 11-3-18
 1000 Cover filled Acres w/ Many Ponds called for state government leaders to
 Pheasant – Saturday, 12-1-18
 10 Different Farms to Hunt
 4000 sq. ft. Hunting Headquarters
 Pheasant – Saturday 1-5-19 launch a bipartisan push in 2019 that
 2 Overnight Lodges
 Super Shoot – Saturday 2-23-19 prioritizes more funding to:
 Many Hunt Packages to Choose From
 Pheasant – Saturday 3-2-19 • Prevent chronic wasting disease
 Your Dogs or Ours - (German Short Hair Pointers
 Pheasant – Saturday 3-9-19 from spreading among Michigan’s
 Pheasant – Saturday, 3-30-19 deer herd
or Black/Yellow Labs, Flushers or Pointers
 Pheasant – Sunday, 4-7-19
• Contain and remediate per- and
Premium Dog Training Fields
 Pheasant – Saturday, 4-20-19
 Pheasant – Sunday 4-21-19
polyfluoroalkyl substances – contami-
nants known collectively as PFAs that
– Shorter Cover NO Small Game License Required!
Hunter Orange REQUIRED!
have worked their way into Michi-
gan’s lakes, rivers and groundwater
Individual Partners, Groups Or Private Shoot Dates For Your Group Or Company. We Can Customize Your Hunt! – to ensure the state’s game, fish and
NOW BOOKING FALL, WINTER & SPRING HUNTS! QUALITY PHEASANT HUNTS waterfowl populations remain healthy
Friends • Family • Corporate and safe for human consumption, and
• Increase the number of people for most of the wildlife conservation by more than half. In Nebraska, for example, a grass-
who hunt and fish in Michigan by and habitat restoration work done “Hunters and anglers foot virtu- roots education campaign is success-
promoting the sports’ benefits and by the DNR. But as the number of ally the entire bill for conservation fully utilizing a variety of hands-on
by appealing to more diverse audi- people hunting and fishing continues in Michigan and across the nation. activities, programs and Spanish-lan-
ences. to decline with an aging population, A continued decline in that base has guage messaging to engage families
“Because of the MUCC analysis, state leaders are concerned how the huge implications for how we manage in high-density Latino communities
people who never hunt or fish should resulting revenue loss will affect conservation of our forests and fields, and encourage them to become fish-
have a new appreciation for the eco- Michigan’s economy – and natural wildlife, our lakes, rivers and streams ing enthusiasts.
nomic power Michigan’s sportsmen resource conservation efforts. today and in the future,” Eade said. “We must work together to better
and sportswomen deliver and that A recent demographic analysis While the DNR, sporting groups promote the joys and opportunities of
helps make our state a great place to conducted by Michigan Technologi- and the state’s Pure Michigan cam- hunting and fishing in the Great Lakes
live, work and recreate,” Howell said. cal University shows the number of paign are expanding their outreach State to younger and more diverse
All told, hunting and fishing firearm deer-hunting licenses sold to attract younger hunters, minorities audiences if we want to grow partici-
licenses generate about $62 million a in Michigan has dropped nearly 21 and women, Howell and Love said pation and ensure these sports remain
year for wildlife and natural resources percent over two decades – from a they are committed to ensuring Mich- a key cog in Michigan’s economy,”
conservation projects in Michigan, 1998 high of 785,000 deer hunters to igan will explore more innovative Love said.
with more than $40 million coming 621,000 in 2017. By 2035, projections strategies to adjust to the state’s aging A copy of the MUCC-MSU report
from hunting license sales. By law, are that the late-’90s rate will be cut hunters and fishermen population. is available at mucc.org.n
that money is entirely dedicated to
wildlife management and conserva-
tion activities.
Michigan is one of the top states
in the nation for hunting license
purchases.
In comparison with all states
in the U.S., Michigan ranks 11th in
terms of job creation, resulting from
hunting and fishing expenditures by
residents and 15th nationally with
respect to job creation arising from
hunting and fishing expenditures by
out-of-state residents, MSU research-
ers found.
The MUCC report was authored
by Professor of Business Dr. Roger
Calantone, Demmer Legacy Profes-
sor Dr. Shawnee K. Vickery and Dr.
Joyce Wang, all within MSU’s Eli
Broad College of Business.
In Michigan, every region feels
the effect of hunting and fishing ex-
penditures, according to the report:
• Southeast (Wayne, Oakland,
Macomb, Monroe, Washtenaw, Liv-
ingston, Genesee, Lapeer, St. Clair,
Sanilac, Tuscola and Huron counties):
Find your escape.

$3.7 billion
• South Central (Lenawee, Jack-
son, Kalamazoo, Ingham, Hillsdale,
Branch, St. Joseph, Calhoun, Eaton,
Barry, Kent, Ionia, Clinton, Shiawas-
see, Saginaw, Gratiot, Montcalm,
Newaygo, Mecosta, Isabella and No matter where your passion for the outdoors takes you,
Midland counties): $3.2 billion GreenStone can help you get there. We’re experts in
• Southwest (Muskegon, Ottawa, financing homes off the beaten path and properties
Allegan, Van Buren, Cass and Berrien of any size.
counties): $1 billion
• Northeast (Bay, Arenac, Iosco, Contact your local branch office to learn more,
Alcona, Alpena and Presque Isle or visit us online to apply today.
counties): $451 million
• North Central (Emmet, Che- 800-444-3276
boygan, Charlevoix, Antrim, Otsego,
Montmorency, Kalkaska, Craw-
ford, Oscoda, Wexford, Missaukee,
Roscommon, Ogemaw, Lake, Osceo-
la, Clare and Gladwin counties): $960
million
• Northwest (Grand Traverse, Lee-
lanau, Benzie, Manistee, Mason and
Oceana counties): $440 million
• Upper Peninsula: $681 million
“It’s clear that small businesses
throughout the Great Lakes State rely
on hunters and fishermen to keep their
cash registers ringing all year long,” www.greenstonefcs.com
said Jeff Poet, president and co-owner
of Jay’s Sporting Goods and a mem-
ber of the Michigan Wildlife Council.
Additionally, license fees and
surcharges on hunting and fishing pay
DARE TO
COMPARE!
Tony
LaPratt Tony LaPratt’s Original Ultimate Land
22
Management and Whitetail Boot Camp
with 2017
Michigan Ultimate Land Management
Bow Buck
- Whitetail Boot Camp -
WITH ANY OTHER LAND MANAGER AND WHITETAIL CLASSES
IMPORTANT QUESTIONS YOU NEED TO ASK

YOURSELF BEFORE YOU SPEND YOUR MONEY AND YOUR TIME
#
1
How many properties have they Gordon Whittington says “There is
laid out? nobody doing anything like this. You are
I have done over 1,800 white- the first!”
tail land management properties. Stan Potts says “Tony, you don’t know
Ranging from 5 acres to 6,000 acres. what you just did, this will change every-
Gary Clancy Outdoor writer says, “Inten- thing in the whitetail world. The way we
sity. You can see it in the eyes of anyone
manage and hunt forever.”
who is totally focused on the task at hand.”
#
2
How many states have they
done land managements in?
As of today’s date, Tony
LaPratt’s ultimate land manage-
#
9 What do the top deer hunters
and writers think of them?
I take great pride knowing all
these individuals talk highly of
ment has been in 28 states. me and my business. Whitetail experts
like, Ted Nugent, Stan Potts, Gordon
#
3
How long have they been in Whittington, Steve Bartylla, Ron Spomer,
whitetail land management on Richard P. Smith, Dave Henderson, Gary
their own?
For 26 years I have been Tony Clancy, Fred Abbas, Craig Dougherty, Ed
Spinazzola, etc.
designing world class hunting
properties.
LaPratt Ted Nugent, says “Tony LaPratt is my
with 2018
4
new whitetail deer hunting guru, and I
# How many acres total managed? Michigan have been to the mountain top!”
#
10
I have walked over 300,000
management acres. Buck How long have they been
7
speaking for major deer
#
#
5
How long have they been at the How far have hunters trav- shows?
cutting edge of whitetail infor- eled to attend their whitetail For 26 years I have been
mation? classes? a Keynote speaker at major deer shows
I have been leading the nation in Hunters have come from 40 across the country, from Minnesota,
cutting edge information, manipu- Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Florida,
lating and influencing the habitats and bed- states and Canada to attend my Ultimate
Whitetail Boot Camps. Indiana, Pennsylvania, Illinois,
8
ding areas, to attract large mature bucks
#
Kentucky, etc.
for over 26 years.
#
11
Steve Bartylla Outdoor writer says, “Tony How many paid classes have
LaPratt, is the godfather of modern day they had? How long have they been
habitat improvements.” I have had over 118 paid written about?
6
classes. It is the most extensive My successes and discov-
# How many years have they

done paid classes?
For over 16 years I have had
whitetail boot camp in history. No other
organizations or individuals come close
eries have been featured,
and I have been the focus of multiple
articles for 28 years.
to presenting the material I present.
paid, scheduled classes that are
photographed and documented.
There is nothing out there even comparable to this amazing whitetail boot camp.
So if record book bucks are TRULY YOUR DREAM, THEN IT’S A NO BRAINER!
e c k O u t Our CALL LESA LaPRATT (AKA THE ALPHA DOE) TODAY!
Ch w
All-Ne e! Call 517-238-4566 or 1-269-832-0990
We b s i t 310 S. Angola Road • Coldwater, MI 49036
www.tonylapratt.com tony@tonylapratt.com
THE ULTIMATE BUCK ZONING SYSTEM
...has set the whole whitetail world on fire again!
There has never been in the History of Whitetail Deer or Tony will be speaking at the
Whitetail Land Management anything this BIG! PERIOD! following 2019 shows . . .
MICHIGAN Gaylord Ultimate
“BUCK ZONING - Going To Change Everything!” Huntin’ Time Expo Hunting Expo
- Exclusively by Tony LaPratt Grand Rapids, MI Gaylord, MI
Mar. 15-16-17
12 #
15
Jan. 25-26-27
# What major publications
have they been featured in?
Have they ever been recog-
nized for their farming and Hillsdale
Conservation District
OHIO
Buck Master, Deer & Deer conservation practices? Northeast OHIO
Hunting, North American In 2000 Tony was recog- Hillsdale, MI Sportman Show
Whitetails, Michigan nized as Conservationist of the Year. Jan. 30 Jan. 17-18-19
Sportsman, Buck Fax, Whitetail Monster Outdoorama
#
16
Bucks and countless newspaper articles. Novi, MI
What kind of facilities do
13
aste
# Have they ever been fea-
tured on T.V. or radio?
they have?
The Whitetail Habitat Re-
Feb. 28, Mar. 1-2-3
Field & Stream: D o n’ t Wh e r
Anot !
search Center is a world Outdoor Life
Season
Michigan Out of Doors and
Pure Michigan as well as class facility. It is the only one of its kind Lansing, MI
countless radio interviews across to devote all of its resources and creative Mar. 8-9-10
the country. thinking into new discoveries and tech-
#
14
niques.
17
What have they accom-
# #
19
plished on their own per- What kind of equipment do
sonal hunting land? Have they ever been asked
they personally own? to represent hunters?
The Whitetail Habitat Re- Our equipment is from the
search Center unleashed the Ultimate Yes, “Pure Michigan” con-
basic hand spreaders to the tacted me to promote and
buck Zoning System at my amazing
Whitetail Habitat Research Center, which most advanced planting equipment assist hunters.
20
out there.
#
encompasses only 52 acres, with only 23
#
18
acres of that being woods. In the spring How long have they been
of 2014, we found 44 sheds, in 2015 – 46 How many acres do they consistent on trophy class
sheds, that’s 90 sheds in just 2 years! personally own? whitetails??
There is no other system that can come I own 52 acres with only Since 1987 I have been
close to this. 23 acres of woods. consistent on quality whitetails. That is
over 31 years in all, using my unique
2019 BOOT CAMP DATES

hunting and ULTIMATE Land Manage-
ment System.
• February 8-9 • April 5-6 • May 10-11

#
21
What have they harvested
(Friday and Saturday) (Friday and Saturday) (Friday and Saturday) on their own property?
• February 15-16 • April 12-13 My top ten whitetails are
(Friday and Saturday) (Friday and Saturday)
from the Whitetail Habitat
Research Center Property. The average
• March 22-23 • April 26-27 rack is from 150-160 inches.
(Friday and Saturday) (Friday and Saturday)
#
22
How many big bucks to
2019 COYOTE CAMP their credit?
• July 12-13 • August 2-3 I have taken 50 big bucks
(Friday and Saturday) (Friday and Saturday) in 31 years.
For complete answers go to...
“You Will Never Regret It!” www.tonylapratt.com
TONY HAS BEEN CONSISTENT FOR 31 YEARS ON TROPHY CLASS WHITETAILS,

50 IN ALL, USING HIS UNIQUE HUNTING AND ULTIMATE LAND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.
Here is a small example of the Ultimate Buck Zoning System. Here, at the amazing Whitetail Habitat Research Center which encompasses
only 52 acres, with only 23 acres of those woods. In the spring of 2014 we found 44 sheds, in 2015 - 46 sheds, thats 90 sheds in just two
years! In 2016 I had 22 different bucks come under my stand on the same day! There is no other system that comes close to this!
- Tony LaPratt
By Kathleen Lavey - MDNR
State forest road inventory completed

A
fter two years of
mapping and review-
ing the condition
of state forest roads
maintained by the
Michigan Department
of Natural Resources across both
peninsulas, an initial inventory that
provides a snapshot of the road
network is complete.
One significant result of that
work is a compilation of interac-
tive maps showing where off-road
vehicle use is allowed on Michi-
gan’s state forest roads, which will
be published online (michigan.
gov/forestroads) and updated each
spring after that.
“Forests roads are a resource
to help people get out and enjoy
Michigan’s public forests,” said
Deb Begalle, chief of the DNR’s
Forest Resources Division.
The inventory and road as-
sessment were required by Public
Act 288 of 2016, which provided
a time frame for inventory and
classification of roads. The law fo-
cused particularly on which roads
should be open to off-road vehicle
traffic.
Roads in the northern Lower
A state forest roads inventory was recently completed which created an online map source for the pub-
Peninsula were inventoried during
lic showing which roads are open and closed to off-road vehicle traffic statewide. MDNR photo
2017, and roads in the southern or closing certain roads to ORVs. 6,308.6 miles (84 percent) of roads ress and will be updated annually
Lower Peninsula and the Upper Various roads or road seg- open to ORV use, while 1,213.6 as DNR staff in the field monitor
Peninsula were inventoried during ments were proposed to be opened (16 percent) miles of road were road conditions or find mapping
2018. or closed to ORV use. Members closed by a land use order of the errors. There are some proposed
“Roads have always been of the public could drop a pin on DNR director. More than 2,000 changes currently under consid-
important to forest management, one of the maps to mark an area members of the public weighed in eration for the northern Lower
whether you are figuring out how and express their concern about it. on that decision. Peninsula, with a decision pending
to get forest products out of the They also could comment by email “We had hundreds of pin by the DNR director and Michigan
woods or if you’re trying to get out or mail. drops with people telling us every- Natural Resources Commission.
there for recreation and all of these Thousands of miles of state thing from, ‘This is a great idea, I Roads that are currently open
activities that people love,” said forest roads are now open to ORV can’t wait’ to ‘You guys are crazy, could be closed to ORVs or other
Scott Whitcomb, unit manager of use. this is going to cause problems,’” vehicles in the future if erosion
the Pigeon River Country State A total of 84 people com- Whitcomb said. threatens the forest or fish habitat
Forest in the northern Lower Pen- mented on nearly 5,600 miles of DNR road evaluations consid- in nearby waters, for example.
insula, who has been instrumental forest roads in the Upper Penin- ered user conflicts, the condition “Getting our forest roads into
in the road inventory. sula. There, 5,582.06 miles (99.1 of the road and a review of current an inventory system on the map
The inventory didn’t involve percent) of roads are open year- land use orders. An example is the gives us a baseline that we can
getting out and driving over every round; 50.28 miles (0.89 percent) Pigeon River Country State Forest. begin working with to manage the
mile of road – there simply wasn’t of roads are closed year-round and It’s home to Michigan’s elk herd forest better,” Whitcomb said.
time for that. Instead, the effort to 0.48 miles (0.01 percent) of roads and focuses on quiet recreation. Comments from the public
catalog the roads used computer are closed seasonally. “There’s a lot of public land will be evaluated each year. Sev-
mapping technology to consolidate There were 77 comments where ORVs are the best use,” eral criteria will be used to make
previously mapped roads into a regarding nearly 370 miles of for- Whitcomb said. “The Pigeon River evaluations, and recommendations
single, comprehensive database. est roads in the southern Lower management plan differs from will be reviewed by DNR staff
“We’ve been collecting infor- Peninsula. In that region, 8.95 other state forests in that it empha- members and the public before the
mation on roads for a very long miles (2.43 percent) of roads are sizes quiet recreation and scenic DNR director makes decisions.
time,” Whitcomb said. “What we open year-round; 285.92 miles values.” The goal is to have forest roads
did here was flip them into a new (77.67 percent) of roads are closed A few other northern Lower that are safe and provide access
platform online.” year-round and 73.25 miles (19.9 Peninsula areas that are focused on to various users, while ensuring
An interactive map and print- percent) of roads are closed sea- quiet recreation also are closed to that forests and waterways aren’t
able maps were provided online, sonally. ORVs. Those include Jordan Val- negatively impacted.
which were used to solicit public There are more than 7,500 ley, the Mason and Deward tracts Take a look at the road maps
comment on the road inventory miles of state forest roads in the and the Sand Lakes quiet area. and learn more about Public Act
and issues connected with opening northern Lower Peninsula, with The maps are a work in prog- 288 at michigan.gov/forestroads.n
Help create design for
2019 Deer Cooperator Patch
S
ince the early 1970s, the year with over 200 submissions,” data about the state’s deer popula- signs may be done in any medium,
Michigan Deer Manage- said DNR outreach assistant Emilie tion for a given season – things like but must be hand-drawn or printed
ment Cooperator Patch – O’Grady. “We’re expecting this the age and sex of the deer taken, and include a maximum of seven
with a new look and design year’s contest to bring in even more locations where hunters have been colors.
every year – has been a collector’s creative designs.” successful, and an overall look at Complete contest information
item for many hunters around the The DNR provides the patch as herd health. and submission guidelines are avail-
state. The DNR again is asking the a thank you to hunters who bring The contest is open to everyone. able at michigan.gov/deer under
public’s help in designing the next their deer to check stations during Those interested in participating in Cooperator Patches.
patch. hunting seasons. At check stations, this year’s contest should submit The winner will be contacted in
“We had a great response last DNR staff members collect valuable their designs by Feb. 1. Patch de- early March.
Tawas Point THE ULTIMATE WOOD HEAT

Lighthouse
Models available
for any size home or
application.
More comfort for your entire home
Keeper
Program
T
Keep the fire and mess outside - EPA-Certified
he Tawas Point Lighthouse long burn times (24 hours or more)
Classic Edge™
Keeper Program is now Titanium HD Series
Outdoor Wood Furnaces
accepting applications for
keepers for May 1 through Features a Titanium-Enhanced
Stainless Steel Firebox
Oct. 29. Those selected will get to
live in the restored keeper’s quarters
at the historic Tawas Point Light-
house, located in Tawas Point State More convenience,
Park off Tawas Bay in Lake Huron. safety and savings than
Each participant pays a $75 per- any other method of
person fee and provides roughly 35
hours of service each week in and
Burn less wood than an indoor stove,
deliver more heat
wood heat.
around the historic lighthouse that
attracts visitors from all over the Call a Central Boiler dealer near you today!
world.
Keeper duties include greeting Valentine Enterprise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bannister, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 989-862-5972
visitors, giving tours, providing in- Beaverton Outdoor Wood Furnace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Beaverton, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 989-435-9240
formation about the lighthouse and Gauthier Heating & Cooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Black River, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 989-471-2478
routine cleaning and maintenance. SOS Property Maintenance LLP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Caledonia, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 616-554-8669
Keepers stay in the second story of Snowbelt Stoves LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chatham, MI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 906-439-5161
the keeper’s quarters attached to the Nature Trail Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fremont, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231-924-7946
lighthouse. Accommodations in- Hettinger’s Backyard & Power Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Galesburg, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 269-484-9273
clude two bedrooms sleeping up to Harbor Hardwoods Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harbor Springs, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231-526-8405
four adults, a modern kitchen, bath Able Heating & Cooling Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Homer, MI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 517-568-5522
and laundry. Keepers must commit Greenstone Renewable Energy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lake Linden, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 906-296-0417
to a two-week stay at the lighthouse. B&S Wood Boilers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lapeer, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 810-664-5060
The lighthouse keeper program White Pine Outdoor Boilers Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marion, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231-282-3194
looks for teams of two, three or Midwest Outdoor Furnaces LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Newport, MI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 734-755-2005
four adults – especially those with P & J Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sagola, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 906-396-7136
K & A Boilers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sault Sainte Marie, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 906-635-9571
knowledge of lighthouse lore or
Alternative Outdoor Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . St. Clair, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 586-709-7165
Great Lakes maritime history – but
Twin Ponds Alternative Heat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stanton, MI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 989-831-4890
there is no requirement for such a Double L Tack Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tower, MI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 989-733-7651
background. Prospective keepers Northwoods Outdoor Stoves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Traverse City, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231-676-0659
should be physically able to climb C.H.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ubly, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 989-658-4328
up and down the 85 lighthouse stairs Matt Simerson Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vassar, MI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 989-233-1420
and have excellent customer service D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wayland, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 616-877-4081
and public speaking skills. Westmoreland Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Webberville, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 517-468-3685
The application and additional Timberland Outdoor Boilers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wellston, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231-862-3134
information are available at the
Lighthouse Keeper Program web-
page. For more information, con- VIDEO: How It Works
tact dnr-tawaskeepers@michigan. CentralBoiler.com >
It’s important that your outdoor furnace and system be properly
gov. The application period is open Explore > How it Works sized and installed. See your local dealer for more information.
through Feb. 1.n ©2018 Central Boiler • ad7514 CentralBoiler.com
he Michigan bear how many bears are present in the
harvest by hunters state, as DNR bear specialist Kevin
during 2018 was the Swanson explained at a Bear Forum
lowest it has been for held in St. Ignace on December 14.
the past four years, “A word about desired harvest
according to prelimi- here,” he said near the beginning of
nary registration figures released by the meeting. “It could be referred to
the DNR, but the low harvest does as a goal harvest and exceeding that
not mean there has been a decline goal is a good thing as long as the
in the bear population. In fact, there abundance estimate and indicators
are now more bears in the state than continue to be positive and support-
there have been for many years, ive of that harvest.”
according to DNR estimates. An The bear harvest goal for 2018
abundance of natural foods and less was 1,555. This is the first time in
than ideal weather conditions during a number of years that the number
parts of the seasons contributed to of bears registered has been lower
the decline. than the predetermined goal. The
Hunters only registered 1,489 same harvest goal was in effect for
bears in Michigan during 2018 sea- 2017 and it was exceeded by 357. In
sons, according to the DNR, com- 2016, the harvest goal of 1,362 was
pared to 1,912 in 2017, 1,615 for exceeded by 253.
2016 and 1,718 during 2015. State That doesn’t mean too many
licensed hunters tagged bears were taken by hunt-
1,432 of the bruins regis- ers during 2016 and 2017.
tered during 2018 versus 57 It means that hunters were
by tribal hunters. A total of more successful than
1,141 of the bears regis- expected due to a growing
tered last fall were taken bear population and lower
in the Upper Peninsula natural food supplies in
(UP) and 291 were shot in parts of the state. In other
Lower Peninsula (LP) bear words, even though the
management units (BMUs). harvest goal was exceeded,
By Richard P. Smith
Most of the more bears
state’s bears were added to
live in the UP. the population
On September 1, 2017, the DNR through reproduction and recruit- Michigan’s black bear har vest was lowest in the past four years.
estimated that there were 10,799 ment than the number removed
black bears more than a year old in through hunting, allowing the popu- looking for food when what they to about 175 in 2017, but were back
the UP compared to 8,000 in 1992. lation to continue increasing. want is easy to find. Bruins simply up around the 200 mark again for
Growth of the UP bear population Whenever natural foods are don’t cross as many roads under 2018.
really accelerated starting in 2012 abundant, the vulnerability of bears those circumstances. Another factor that plays a role
in response to a major reduction of to hunters is reduced because the There’s also usually a reduction in reducing the bear harvest in the
the number of bear licenses issued animals prefer fruits, nuts, berries in bear nuisance complaints associ- LP even when bears are abundant
by the state, which has remained and grains (corn and oats) that don’t ated with a good food year for bears. besides abundant natural foods and
in effect since then. The number of have human scent associated with This correlation was obvious in the weather is the short season. Bear
bears in the UP more than a year them versus some of the same foods UP over the last two years. More season was only open for nine days
old increased by more than 2,000 or placed at bait sites by hunters. There than 200 nuisance bear complaints in most LP BMUs. Some of those
24% since 2012. were plenty of blueberries, raspber- were recorded in the UP during days are reserved for bait hunting
The LP bear population in- ries, wild cherries, feral apples and 2017 compared to about 100 for and others for hound hunting. UP
creased at an even higher rate, acorns available for bears to choose 2018. bear seasons allow hunters to hunt a
according to the DNR, going up by from during 2018 and there’s always Due to the presence of almost month or more, if they choose.
72% between 2012 and 2017. There a selection of corn and oat fields twice as many bears in the LP, Weather can really impact suc-
were approximately 1,600 bruins in agricultural areas. So bears visit nuisance complaints remained high cess during short seasons if heat,
more than a year old in LP BMUs hunters’ baits less frequently when there in spite of abundant natural heavy rains and/or strong winds
during 2012 compared to an esti- there’s a bumper crop of natural foods. affect one or more days of the hunt.
mated 2,957 by September 1, 2017. foods than they otherwise would. “The northern Lower Peninsula When it’s hot, bears tend to be less
Bear numbers have almost doubled And when they do visit baits, it’s had to implement an on-call sys- active during daylight hours. The
in that part of the state over a 5-year more often under the cover of dark- tem to deal with nuisance bears in same is true during high winds and
period. ness instead of during legal hunting 2016 because bear complaints have downpours. Many hunters don’t
The DNR sets a bear harvest hours. become almost unmanageable,” like to hunt under these conditions
goal by BMU to help them deter- Since most hound hunters rely DNR bear specialist Kevin Swanson either.
mine how many bear licenses to on baits to locate bears to chase, commented during the Bear Forum Extended periods of poor
issue for each. That goal is simply reduced reliance on baits by bears in St. Ignace. “A dozen commer- weather for bear hunting can also
a guideline to help control hunting reduces the success rate of both cial beekeepers called this week to reduce success in the UP. Tempera-
pressure. A number of variables bait and hound hunters. Dog hunt- express concern over bear numbers tures were hot during the first five
other than bear numbers can influ- ers who rely on finding the tracks in the Lower Peninsula.” days of the UP bear season last fall,
ence the harvest, as mentioned of bears where they cross trails also Approximately 200 nuisance for instance, which probably influ-
above. Whether or not the harvest end up with lower success rates bear reports were recorded in the LP enced the number of bears killed
goal is achieved has no bearing on because bears don’t travel as much during 2016. They dropped slightly that week.n
Made by John
Chagnon & Family
Lenon Lure’s - $6.50/1 oz. - $20.00/4oz. Bottle
AuSable Brand “Superior” Two Handled

Fleshing Knife
-AuSable Brand Knives are Designed & Made in
the U.S.A.-
PcsOutdoors has partnered with Dex-
ter Russel to bring you the ultimate in
fleshing knives.
13” blade with one edge sharper than
the other for fleshing your animals. It
features textured, slip-resistant, easy-
to-clean, polypropylene handles and
an impervious blade-to-handle seal
provides the utmost in carbon
steel. Made of
DEXSTEEL™.
Darton Terminator II Special

Crossbow Package $450.00
Darton Terminator II Crossbow
Package includes: Terminator
II Crossbow, 4x32 scope, scope
rings, Lynx four-bolt quiver, E-Z
Draw cocking rope, crossbow
rail lube, 3 carbon bolts.
• Trigger-forward design enhances balance for steady shooting

PcsOutdoors • Shoots bolts up to 340 fps
is an Authorized • Dampeners and silencers create an ultraquiet shot
Darton Archery Dealer
Michigan Sportsman
Essexville, MI
A Division of PcsOutdoors
Authorized Traditions Dealer with complete Line of Muzzleloading Rifles and Accessories

Waxwings
in Winter
O
ne of the Bridge.
day in Nobody was
early surprised when
Febru- we told them
ary last year, my that the birds
wife Gail and I were gone the
went for a drive, next day and that
just to get out of we had not seen
the house for a them since.
while. It was the Why did it
height of cabin- thrill us? What is
fever season, and it about encoun-
we were starved tering unusual
for novelty. At wildlife that
the last moment electrifies us? In
we grabbed our winter it might
binoculars and a be partly relief
camera in case from routine.
we ran across any The buttery yel-
interesting birds. low and cream
We didn’t expect bellies of the
to. In midwinter Cedar Waxwings
in Michigan the and the rufous-
bird palette is usually pretty limited. colored undertail coverts of the
We were on our way home after Bohemians—as if they had sat in
exploring ice floes that had piled up raspberry juice—were delicious to
along the shore of Lake Michigan our famished eyes. It reminded me
when we noticed a flock of birds of one of my favorite passages from
flying in and out of trees beside the Willa Cather’s novel My Ántonia,
road. There was something unusual about cabin fever on the Great
about them, so we wheeled into Plains:
the driveway of the Baptist church “In the winter bleakness a
under the trees and stepped out to hunger for color came over people,
take a look. like the Laplander’s craving for fats
What we saw was the birding and sugar. Without knowing why,
highlight of the year. In the tops of we used to linger on the sidewalk
the maples and birches on both sides outside the church when the lamps
of the road and especially in the were lighted early for choir prac-
big shade trees above the cemetery tice or prayer meeting, shivering
were flocks of Cedar and Bohemian and talking until our feet were like
Waxwings. Hundreds of them. We lumps of ice. The crude reds and
couldn’t have been more surprised. greens and blues of that colored
Cedar Waxwings are among our glass held us there...”
favorite songbirds, but we had never Biologists say we’re hardwired
seen a Bohemian. They’re common to notice the unusual. It’s how we
across northern Canada and can be survived for the tens of thousands
found in the U.P., but are quite rare of years before we invented rifles
here in the Lower Peninsula. The and refrigerators. We glimpsed the
flocks were about evenly divided be- twitch of a saber-tooth’s ear through
tween the two species, with perhaps the underbrush and knew it meant
more Bohemians than Cedars. Many danger. We saw spots of red on the
were feeding ferociously on leaf hillside across the valley and knew
buds in the maples and red berries in it meant berries for dinner.
shrubs along the road. That gray winter day Gail and I
Later, when we told our birder were famished not just for color, but
friends about the incident, they were for variety. When it came to us like
surprised. Most of them had never an unexpected gift from a stranger
seen a bohemian waxwing in the we did what any sensible person
Lower Peninsula. The consensus would do: tucked in and enjoyed the
was that frigid feast.
weather and Writer and artist team Jerry Den-
a shortage of nis and Glenn Wolff have been col-
food in Canada laborating on books that celebrate
and the U.P. nature and the outdoors for nearly
had driven the thirty years. See what they’re up to
birds south at bigmaplepress.com.n
By Jerry Dennis
A very successful fall
William Clayton of Salem ‘loves hunting in Michigan!’ He

had his best fall hunting season by far. He tagged out
on his doe permit and combo licenses with two very nice
eight-points, plus a fall Tom turkey with an 11 inch beard.

DOUBLE UP ON WALLEYES Wham! The hungry walleye smashed the jigged
spoon like a bulldog crunching a leg bone. I
reeled frantically to take up slack line when I
noticed on electronics another walleye eyeball-
ing my dead stick lure. I gave the set rod a little
jiggle and POW! I was into a double header with
five-pound walleyes on the end of both lines. It
was an ice fisherman’s dream come true...
By Kenny Darwin
O
r was it? I quickly there is a precise science to Don’s
discovered how proven double rod winter walleye
difficult it is to land mastery. He has discovered how to
one big walleye attract and hold walleyes in his area
while fighting an- and how to put them on the ice at
other. Fact is hook- lightning speed while other anglers
ing two can lead to double trouble are still struggling to hook their first
with no fish landed and your lines fish.
tangled and heart pounding. You When I got into the sport I was
know, I’ve been to this circus before busy setting IGFA World Records
and learned to simply set the second using light line tactics discovered
rod in the rod holder and land the by the late famous guide rod maker
first fish. Next, I crank loose line Dick Swan. I iced an eight-pound
on the second and eventually put walleye using two-pound leader that
that fat five-pounder on the ice too. set a world record for one year. I
Yahoo! Two dandy walleyes fought eventually switched to 54-inch fly
successfully, top shelf ice fishing rod tip blanks rigged with 10-pound
action that produced double wall- spinning reels and I began tuna
eyes flopping on the ice at lightning fishing walleyes, landing them all,
speed. catching hundreds and winning
So, what was my secret? The Shiver-On-The River contests with
answer is easy, I’m fishing with two 10-12 pound monster fish. Part of
rods and have an understanding of my success had to do with a two
how to attract and catch winter wall- rod jigging technique that I still use
eyes two at a time. If your goal is to today.
experience ice fishing for walleyes There’s more to this strategy
at an accelerated excitement level, than simply keeping two baits in the
or you want to fill the box at light- water, it offers an opportunity to use
ning speed I’ve got some ice fishing contrasting lures and different jig-
secrets that will produce fish like no ging styles. Sure, two rods enhances
other. your opportunity to catch multiple
My big water walleye ice fish- fish but multiple lure appeal is one
ing training began over 30 years huge advantage when ice fishing.
ago when Saginaw resident and Some days they want it big and bold
ice fishing guru Don Leuenberger and other days they will only nip
took me under his wing. Don is the tiny presentations tipped with live
brand of outdoorsman who appreci- minnows.
ates and respects the resource and is Some folks think the trick is to
never flamboyant, loud or bragging simply keep a second rod rigged
about his record book catches. Don and ready to drop when you miss a
sneaks up on winter walleyes using strike. The idea is to keep two lures
a stealthy approach, keeping noise at in the strike zone and give walleyes
a low level and secretively slipping a varied food source to choose from.
baited lures into the strike zone. Fishing two rods simultaneously is
From day one Don taught me how to simply the best! Fishing two rods
read the ice, identify unsafe cracks side by side with lines in adjacent
and safety was a priority. But when holes will produce more walleyes
he would drill in and make holes for overall. The simple overriding factor
fishing walleyes, he taught me how is you have two baits in the water at
and why to make three holes. The one time, which tends to draw and
center hole was for electronics and hold the attention of more fish than
the two side holes were for fishing. a single line.
Sounds simple, you just make First, you gotta use electronics.
Author proudly displays 10-pound ‘hawg ’eye’ that fell prey to double rod tactics. two holes and fish two lures. But This is sight fishing at its finest and
requires electronics that show the are fishing blind.
bottom, your lures and any fish in If I get on the ice in the middle
the immediate vicinity. There are of the afternoon and the bite is
many quality ice fishing electron- slow I use small #3 and #5 1 1/2
ics available today like: Marcum to 1 7/8-inch Swedish Pimples and
Technologies, Vexilar, Hummin- lively perch minnows. Drop them
bird, Garmin and more. Once you to bottom and raise 12-18 inches
are drilled in, have electronics and and set the rods in rod holders. I’m
lures in the water you center your effectively dead sticking but instead
attention on the electronics screen, of using plain hooks I recommend
searching for the slightest clue that small Swedish pimples. The trick
walleyes are near. Your electronics is two or three perch size lively
will also show you any walleyes minnows on each lure, drop ’em to
near the lures and indicate how bottom, raise and allow the lures to Winter walleyes are lethargic, move toward lures slowly and frequently
they respond to different lures and stay motionless while the minnows only nip minnows dangling on a lure hook. You feel the take and set the
jigging techniques. When you have struggle on the hook. The mass of hook but the hooks are outside the fish’s mouth and he strips minnows.
fish following your presentation the struggling minnows twitching on If you miss the strike and fish gobble your bait, quickly put the second
electronics will help you to keep the hooks draws walleyes from long rod to work and get the fresh minnows in the walleye’s face.
lure in the strike zone slightly above distances. Wary clear water walleyes
marks and help you to know when will swim under this presentation on the electronics as a bottom flicker bottom giving off loud vibrations
to pause from jigging and prepare by gliding slowly along bottom, fins that changes to a thickening band and sending flashes long distances.
for a strike. Without electronics you barely touching the sand. They show that soon changes to a full band As darkness approaches, switch
slowly rising off bottom. Avoid the to two jigging lures and pump the
temptation to lift the rod out of the heck out of them. Dance ’em one to
rod holder and begin jigging, which five-feet off bottom and allow them
will spook fish. Instead slowly lift to fall and crash to bottom, which
the rod from the holder and keep the mimics baitfish bottom feeding and
lure stationary at the same depth and stirs up sand and debris. If a large
simply jiggle the tip to get the min- red band indicates a big walleye is
nows swimming radically. in your spread try to get a lure in its
Now, hold steady and watch face. Jig it, then stop and use tiny
your electronics to see if the wall- wiggles to make the minnow bait
eye rises to sniff the minnows. If he dance in the strike zone. Again use a
comes off bottom but does not strike stair step jigging style to bring ’em
avoid the impulse to radically jig the off bottom. Most of my strikes are
lure and once again only jiggle the two to six-feet off bottom but some
rod tip but this time slowly raise the crazy walleyes will chase the offer-
lure another foot. If the fish follows ing within a few feet of the surface
but does not strike keep using a stair ice.
step lifting action to draw walleyes In past years when darkness fell
off bottom, get’em standing on their and the bite slowed I’d pack gear
tail in feeding position. Sometimes and motor for distant lights along
you have to bring fish several feet shore. But today I break out my
off bottom before they snap the bait. Energizer head lamp and Moonshine
If fish nip off your minnows simply Super Glow 3/8 oz. lures in Bloody
switch rods and get the second lure Nose, Crab Face, Glow Perch and
rigged with live minnows in their more. I charge ’em up with the head
face pronto. lamp and send them near bottom.
Many times you will hook one Night walleyes on the prowl are at-
fish and suddenly a second appears tracted to the new super-glow colors
on the screen. That’s when you get and slam offerings. Some nights the
the second lure in the strike zone by hot bite on super glow lures begins
watching electronics and positioning as darkness falls and heats up until
the lure slightly above the mark on around 11 to midnight.
the graph. Jiggle it, wiggle it and When the bite is going big guns
slowly stair step upward and POW! fishing two rods can be a pain in the
You’re into a double header. butt. Several outings last year found
When afternoon light dimin- me cranking a second lure out of
ishes, walleyes become active the way and only fishing a single
and that’s when I switch to bigger rod because walleyes were snappin.’
spoons and begin jigging. I use an But I still rig two rods and keep the
erratic two-foot jigging lift and al- second lure barely in the water to
low the flashy lure to wobble toward keep the minnow bait fresh, lively
bottom. My lure of choice is a #1 and ready to send down to the strike
1 3/4 inch Bay de Noc Do Jigger. zone when the main rod is not in
Author’s ice fishing mentor Don Leuenberger, Saginaw, with fat 12-pound- When I pull up a Do Jigger it has a use. The best approach to catching
er he caught mid-day using skilled jigging tactics. Don loves ice fishing swimming action walleyes will fol- limits of walleyes is to determine
from his heated shanty using custom rods, wearing cleated boots, latest low and when you let it fall the lure
electronics and floor carpet to silence his movement and keep feet warm. flips on its back and flutters toward Double up page 44
Double up on Walleyes:
from page 43
if fish are active. If the bite is slow electronics quickly moves toward
use double dead sticks, when the the dancing spoon give it a light
strike begins, jig one rod and leave twitch, then pause and jiggle rod
the other stationary. If fish heat up tip to get the bait wiggling in his
keep both rods jigging and when the face and pause and wait for the bite.
strike goes bonkers you will dis- Sometimes walleyes will gulp your
cover more fish can be caught if you presentation but more frequently
use only one rod and have a second they will inhale the minnow bait and
rigged, ready, on standby. hook by venting water through their
Two rods give you a big advan- gills. Many times the lure is dan-
tage when ice fishing walleyes. If gling outside the walleye’s mouth
fish show on the screen and don’t as the fish pin point nabs the bait
bite you know to change lures or and snatches it between its teeth.
put on a fresh lively minnow. Some The strike is often a light tap and a
days a rattlin’ spoon like Northland sensitive rod tip is an advantage to
Buckshot will get them going or a detect nipping strikes. If the walleye
big flashy lure will cause aggressive is only holding onto the minnow
strikes. Given Michigan’s frequent and you feel the pressure and set the
cold front conditions you will hook you will miss the strike and
quickly learn the fine art of coerc- the fish gets a free meal. However,
ing non-biting walleyes to nip at a that’s when you place the second
small lure with subtle action. Oh lure slightly above the active fish,
yes, there are days when walleyes jiggle the rod to make the minnows
go into a negative mode and you come alive and wait for a second
simply can’t get them to bite. strike. With the two rod system you
Determining the right presenta- can even get strikes from neutral or
tion is very important and working negative walleyes. Erik Furseth, Okemos, with rod bent double fighting a bruiser walleye,
two rods gives you an advantage We all love hawg ’eyes that reaches down to gill his prize. Note his custom gold Do Jigger lure and
in selecting which lure and jigging are 30-inches long and show up on conduit rod holders attached to the side of his pop-up shanty. The large
black minnow bucket is used to keep minnows lively and prevent bait from
style is best. Keep the dead stick electronics like a nuclear submarine freezing. Kenny Darwin photos
below the jigging lure. Often active as they boldly march up to the lure
walleyes will swim kissin’ close and gulp the spoon with an arm automatically makes you violently evening because you are doubling
to the dead stick with live min- jolting tug on the rod. You know the jerk back. This frequently occurs your fish-drawing power and attract-
nows, get excited and charge the kind of strike that sends an adrena- when fishing two lines during prime ing the most active, aggressive fish.
jigging spoon. When a red band on line rush through your system and bite hours of early morning and late The idea is to attract as many fish
as possible when the light is low
and walleyes are actively roaming
Church Tackle Co. ALL MADE
IN THE USA
in search of food. During periods of
high activity you will up your odds
New for 2016!
WE DIDN’T INVENT THE PLANER BOARD, WE JUST PERFECTED IT! Locking Arm
Locking Arm
easy to open & close
of catching more and bigger fish if
Lock-Jaw
Adjustment Adjustment Screw
easy to open & close you use two rods rather than one.
Mini Lock-Jaw
Screw
For drop weights & Release Release Hole for drop weights
or other applications
Your goal is to send maximum flash
Prevention Prevention
This clip may be mini but when it comes to holding power it’s second other applications and vibration through the water
only to it’s big brother, the original Lock-Jaw! Holds mono, super
braids, power pro, lead core or copper lines without damaging the line!
column and get the attention of
The Mini Lock-Jaw fits The Walleye Board, TX-44, TX-22, TX-12 & TX-6 1 7/8” Long
Replaceable Pad monster fish from long distances.
Pad
planer boards, but we recommend the full size Lock-Jaw for the TX-44. 1/2” Wide Locator holes for Line Protector inside
keeps line from making
Locator holes for
attaching to side-planers
To get ’em fired up use a radical
The Mini Lock-Jaw is designed to fit other side planers, drop weights and attaching
to side-planers
WE DIDN’T INVENT CLIPS, contact with screw
Stingray jigging motion interspersed with
works for many other applications.
WE HAVE PERFECTED THEM! frequent pauses as you wait a
Part# 40620, 2pk Color - yellow Replacement Pads part# 40701 6/pk Diving Weight few seconds for a strike. Another
TX-007 Stern Planer & TX-005 Mini Stern Planer TX-44 Tournament Series Unique error-proof design allows anglers to put
more fish in the boat! Water strikes top surface, trick is to jig one spoon close to
The TX-44 is the first and the only in line planer to pull the large Divers,
(10 1/4” long, weighs about 3 oz) (7” long, weighs about 1.5 oz) Lead Core, Wire or Copper Lines and Heavy Weights. The size of the TX-44 forcing the Stingray downward. A fish on will bottom and the second two to
An all new type of planer! makes it harder for fish to pull the board under, however it is still easy to force the nose upward & Stingray to the surface.
Available in unpainted or painted. 2 snaps for
four-feet off bottom. Stair step
retrieve. The Vise Clip comes standard with the TX-44; especially
rch Tackle Co. designed for lead core & copper, makes accidental each weight included lures and watch for fish to slip
Chu E-Z Store Famous
release almost impossible. snaps off & on in seconds Lock-Jaw beneath the duo of dancing
TX-44 Tournament Series now Clip Size #1 - .7 oz
Easy to attach and remove.
for easy removal & storage
#40300
presentations. Once you notice
available which comes with a
Great for trolling in congested areas and more effective contour trolling along
Lock-Jaw Clip, Stainless Steel unpainted #40302 black fish coming slowly up, keep
drop offs contour lines, reef edges and weed lines in rivers, lakes or the ocean. Rear Pin and E-Z Store for easy moving the lure higher to entice
Effective for all species. Run more lines out the back of the boat by staggering
the Stern Planers. Run any distance from the boat yet maintain desired depth.
tow-arm removal. Part# 30630
(14” x 4 1/4” x 7/8”)
Size #2 - 1.4 oz fish completely off bottom. The
Standard TX-44 Part# 30610 Stainless Steel Rear Pin
further walleyes follow a lure above
EZ Store! For Your Planer Board Allows for easy Tournament Series bottom the more vertical they be-
#40303 unpainted #40304 orange
planer storage! Change
-22 SCop
RIGHT
ecia
l Upgrade Kit come and eventually their predatory
tow-arm & clips in a snap!
TXChurch Tackle odus, MI
strike instinct forces them to bite.
.S
Size #3 - 2.7 oz
hurchtackle.com
www.c
for TX-44, TX-22 &

Optional E-Z Store devise easily
TXChurwcwhwT.acchkulrchtackleo.codusm, MI
I hope you find time this season
The Walleye Board
-22 eSCop .S l
ecia
attaches to the Walleye Board, TX-44

LEFT
& TX-22 side planers. Slide the tow-arm off for storage or change Includes a Lock-Jaw Clip
to give ice fishing for walleyes a try.
to another tow-arm & clip then slide back on when you’re ready to E-Z Store & Stainless Please follow my suggestion and
fish again. Part# 40519 sold 2 per package 1 left & 1 right Rear Pin Assembly. (Part# 30640) #40305 unpainted #40306 chartreuse double your pleasure, double your
Please checkcheck
Please with your
withlocal
yourtackle shop first,
local tackle shop if first,
they don’t
if theycarry
don’tour products
carry visit us at
our products www.churchtackle.com
visit Like
us at www.churchtackle.com to us
view all
fun, catch more and bigger fish us-
to view all of our of our American
great great American made fishing
made fishing gear, orgear, or at
call us call us at 269-934-8528
269-934-8528 to request
to request a catalog.
a catalog. on facebook ing two rods.n
Celebrating Michigan’s Great Outdoors!
Bigg
e
Than r
OUTDOORAMA • NOVI
SPECIAL PULL OUT
Ever
!
FEB 28-MAR 3
Celebrating Michigan’s 12 MILE RD .
TWELVE
FREE Crossover Admission to
EXIT
Great Outdoors!
160 EXIT
OAKS MALL 12th Annual
Special Bonus!
162
96
BECK RD.
Adults $10; Children (6-14) $4; 5 & Under Free

NOVI RD .
SHOW
PLACE
SHOW HOURS GRAND

RIVER Cottage &
Lakefront Living Show
AVE.
Thursday February 28 1pm-9pm 10 MILE RD.
Friday March 1 11am-9pm
Saturday March 2 10am-9pm Suburban Collection Showplace - Detroit™
Sunday March 3 10am-5pm Grand River One Mile West of Novi Road
NoviCottageShow.com
Outdoorama.com
Novi, Michigan–Detroit Market
FEB Produced
28-MAR 3, 2019
by ShowSpan FEB
with Paid 28-MAR to
Admission 3, 2019
Outdoorama
BOAT SUPERMARKET!
The best place to buy a boat!
BOAT LINES! DEALERS!
Alumacraft Misty Harbor Bee’s Sports
Apex Pontoons
Bayliner Nitro Bass Boats Chapman’s Sport
Bennington Polarcraft
Bentley Pontoons Premier Pontoons Center
Berkshire Pontoons Ranger Club Royale
Biscayne Bay Sea Swirl
Pontoons Smokercraft Freeway Sports Center
Calabria South Bay
Crest Pontoons Starcraft
Rose Marine
Crestliner Stingray Boats Wilson Marine
Crownline Stratos
Excel Sun Chaser Wonderland Marine -
Fincraft Pontoons West
Fish Rite Suncatcher
Gator Trax Boats Sweetwater
Glastron Pontoons
OUTDOORAMA • NOVI
G3 Sylvan Fishing Boats

Harris Deckboats Sylvan Pontoons
SPECIAL PULL OUT
Headwater Tracker Fishing

Larson Boats
Lowe Trophy
Lund Boats War Eagle
Manitou Pontoons Yamaha Jet Boats
Mirrocraft Yamaha PWC
And More!
CUTTING
EDGE
GEAR!
Take advantage of
Outdoorama only specials!
BOOK
THE TRIP
OF A
LIFETIME!
Lodges, charters, fly-ins,
camps and guided trips!
Schedules & Details: www.Outdoorama.com

SEMINARS AT THE
HUNTING & FISHING ACADEMY
MARK MARTIN MARK ROMANACK JAKE ROMANACK ED SPINNAZOLA TOM RICHARDSON

WALLEYE FISHING WALLEYE FISHING SALMON FISHING FOOD PLOTS DEER CALLING
OUTDOORAMA • NOVI
WAYNE CARPENTER FRED ABBAS JOHN EBERHART KEVIN BACKUS TONY LA PRATT
BASS FISHING DEER HUNTING DEER HUNTING MUSKIE FISHING LAND MANAGEMENT
SPECIAL PULL OUT

LUMBERJACKS ARE BACK!
BIG BUCK The Great Alaskan IRONJACK Timber Team will be
battling it out in the Olympics of the Forest at this
NIGHT year’s Outdoorama Show. Two top Alaskan Lumber-

jacks will be going head to head in Chopping, Saw-
ing, Axe Throwing, Hot Saw, Tree Climbing and Log
THURSDAY NIGHT ONLY Rolling. These men have honed their skills all sum-
mer long doing competitions for the Cruise Industry
Presented by Michigan Out-of-Doors TV on the Alaskan island town of Ketchikan. These
Show. Celebrity hosts Jimmy Gretzinger rugged woodsmen are two of the worlds best timber
and Jenny Olsen will interview the lucky athletes and have been featured on
the OUTDOOR CHANNEL. When not cutting logs in competition you can find these
Michigan hunters who bagged some of the men in the wilds hunting bear or mountain goats and catching halibut or king salmon
largest whitetail deer of the season. on the ocean. The action and stories provided by these men will captivate the crowds
on stage at Outdoorama.
DEER
PROCESSING
DEMO
Sponsored by
Presented by
Country Smoke House
3pm Saturday
on the Main Stage
BRING YOUR DEER ANTLERS

TO THE SHOW AHD HAVE
THEM SCORED!
You can display them for all to see on the buck
boards for the duration of the show!
Schedules & Details: www.Outdoorama.com

FOLLOW US ON
FACEBOOK &
TWITTER!
SPECIAL FEATURES
ANTIQUE & CLASSIC FISHING TACKLE PELLET
Terry McBurney, Woods-N-Water News staff writer, will be on hand SHOOTING
all four days of the show exhibiting some of his “Made in Michigan” RANGE
fishing tackle collection. Outdoorama visitors are welcome to bring
in their old fishing tackle and talk to Terry, who will be answering A Pellet Shooting Range will
questions and offering FREE appraisals. thrill plinkers and shooters of all
ages. Certified instructors teach
COMMEMORATIVE accuracy and safety.
BUCKS OF MICHIGAN
FLY FISHING AREA
Commemorative Bucks of Michigan Presented by
will be at the show to score your Michigan Fly Fishing Club
deer, turkey, bear and elk. They will Outdoorama has teamed up with the best
also have Boone and Crockett / local fly fishing stores to create a huge
Pope and Young measurers to assist you. Bring fly fishing area! With continuous free fly
your trophies to Booth 6013 and have them casting lessons and non-stop fly tying
scored while you enjoy the show. demonstrations, this area will offer the
best in information and products to fly fishing anglers of all ages and
VINTAGE BOATS & all skill levels. Other activities include book signings and expert advice
OUTBOARD MOTORS on local fishing opportunities from guides, professional instructors,
OUTDOORAMA • NOVI
Dick VanRaalte, from Starboard Marine Restorations of Grand Haven, outfitters and pros.
SPECIAL PULL OUT
MI, who restores wood and fiberglass boats, will be on hand all four
days of the show exhibiting one of his restored classic boats as well SPORTSMEN’S GRILL
as a display of vintage outboards. Outdoorama visitors are invited to A large dining area has been designated
come in and talk to Dick about boat restoration projects or to bring in as the site of the Sportsmen’s Grill food
old outboard motors for him to appraise. Visit Starboard Marine on the court. After rave reviews last winter, the
web at www.boatrestorations.com. area has acquired “Ultimate” status with
an expanded menu, a family entertainment
TROUT POND area and a large bar popular with
Operated by Michigan B.A.S.S. sportsmen. A basket of fish fillets breaded
Federated Clubs as a fundraiser, in a special breading mix will be served
you and your kids are invited to up with fries and slaw at a “family price”
come and try your hand at one of throughout the show.
the state’s best trout ponds. It only
costs $5 to give it a try.
ARCHERY RANGE
VIRTUAL FISHING Presented by
Michigan Bow Hunters
SIMULATOR
Presented by This is a great activity intended
Michigan Charter Boat Association to get kids started in the sport of
Take the trolling rod in hand, watch Archery. Representatives from the
the video screen and get ready! The Michigan Bow Hunters will be on
salmon takes that lure like a freight hand to give the proper instruction
train and your job is to land that fish. to get your kids involved in this great
Top scores for the weekend will win Sport!
charter trips on the Great Lakes.
er
Epping
r ed with world
Special thanks to Woods-N-Water News for producing this flyer. pan ha
sp a r tn e
ator of
ShowS cturing, cre to give away to
the
Man u fa le , res
Visit the Woods-N-Water News booth, Michigan’s Dardev dition lu
famous tive, limited e Thursday
mora
comme t 500 attend e Show.
ees on
fir s y o th
premier outdoor publication, at Outdoorama and online the f
& Frida
www.woods-n-waternews.com.810-724-0254
810-724-0254
Schedules & Details – Outdoorama.com
A ShowSpan Production
Required reading
for finesse success
I
f you watch YouTube vid- casting gets. It’s a simple concept Six and 4-pound are
eos and read enough articles with a whole lot of nuances that lead super light lines for most
about finesse bass fishing, to greater success. Basically, you just bass situations, but Charlie
you get a lot of different rig a 4-inch Slider Worm on one of even explains how you
ideas of what people consider the flat Slider jigheads, cast it on 4 or can lead a fish away from
“finesse” to be. Lots of guys 6-pound test monofilament and count its cover before sweep-
have different definitions, and I’m not it down to the depth you want it to ing back to set the hook
here to say anyone is wrong. But for travel. Then you reel slowly enough and fight the bass in open
the sake of this column, here’s how I to keep the worm and jighead at the water.
define it: desired depth, focusing on not adding I plan to stick with the
“Finesse bass fishing covers any any action. same spinning combos
presentation wherein the artificial lure Brewer came up with the tech- I’ve been using for Ned
looks, acts, sounds and nique after observing Rigs and other “modern”
feels like what a bass is minnows as they went finesse presentations:
conditioned to eat MOST about their daily business. 7-foot medium-light Shi-
of the time.” He noted how they move mano Convergence rods Charlie Brewer on Slider Fishin’ for
Think of it as the op- smoothly, with little tail with the inexpensive Sedona spin- $6.95, plus shipping at the Charlie
posite of getting a reaction action. He wanted his ning reels. I’ll probably keep using Brewer Slider Company’s e-com-
strike with a spinnerbait or lures to do the same, and the braided Power Pro and 8-pound merce site, www.sliderfishing.com. To
crankbait. It’s more akin to notes that it’s not easy to Seaguar AbrazX fluorocarbon leader save shipping, you can order enough
“matching the hatch” like keep your rod tip perfectly I’ve been using the last few years, jigheads and soft plastics to push your
trout anglers try to do with still and reel your lure too. But I might spool up one rod order to more than $50, which makes
hand-tied flies. Finesse
bass fishing might be By Dave Mull back without impart-
ing any action and that
with 6-pound mono to see if
straight monofilament works
shipping free. That’s, of course, what
yours truly did.
more akin to fly fishing you need to practice. better for the Slider technique. Even if you decide to stick with
for trout, but it’s not exactly the same Sometimes you drag them through a After reading his book, I can’t wait heavy line, jigs, crankbaits, chatter-
thing. The trout angler wants his flies school of suspended fish; sometimes to start casting some of those baits baits and the rest of modern-day gear
to look as much like the insects a fish you, “polish rocks” as Brewer calls and trying the main techniques that that bass guys use to power-fish and
is eating as possible. The finesse bass it, reeling your Slider Worm steadily Charlie Brewer teaches. cover lots of water, this book is still a
angler is more concerned that his rig along the bottom, occasionally mak- You can get your own copy of fun and enjoyable read.n
ACTS like what a bass has been eating bottom contact.
ing. His book details how to alter his
One gentleman who I think would Slider jigheads with pliers and side-
agree with that assessment if he were cutters to make them lighter for shal-
still alive is Charlie Brewer, creator low fishing, and also explains how to
of the Slider Worm and proponent of fish light jigheads and his method to
Slider fishing. reach fish down 30 feet and beyond.
This winter, I bought the book Hint: You reel really, really slowly.
Charlie Brewer on Slider Fishin’. For You also can rig one of Brewer’s
me, it was a true page-turner and I de- worms on an open-hook jighead or
voured its 112 pages within the space rig it so it’s weedless on a Slider head
of 24 hours. I plan to read it at least that features an offset hook. While the
one more time before next spring. only lure that Brewer mentions in the
As mentioned in last month’s book is a Slider Worm, the com-
column, the author, the late Char- pany now makes flat-tail grubs and I
lie Brewer, belongs on the Mount think Michigan bass will smash the
Rushmore of finesse bass anglers. He company’s 3-inch Bass Grubs on the
developed the original Slider head open-hook Slider heads.
and worm in the 1960s, and promoted As readers of this column might
it as an easy way to catch fish. First recall, I’m a big proponent of using
published in 1978, his book extols the the 2 3/4-inch Z-Man TRD worm
“Do Nothing” method of fishing with on a 1/20- or 1/15-ounce mushroom
light line and the unique, flat jigheads jighead, and one of the effective ways
that Brewer developed to fish the to catch bass and other species with
reservoirs around his home in Law- that lure is to just reel it slowly back
renceburg, Tennessee. to you. Charlie Brewer has been doing
The book is written as if Charlie just that with his Slider Worms since
Brewer were sitting in the boat with the 1960s.
you, just laying out as much informa- The Slider gear of Brewer’s day
tion as your brain can absorb about included short spinning rods—5 feet
his style of fishing. He emphasizes the long at the longest—and small spin-
“fun and enjoyment” that fishing is ning reels, chosen because they are
supposed to be all about, and is pretty lightweight and comfortable to use.
convincing that Sliders can catch lots Charlie recommends taping the reel to
of fish. He mentions “fun and enjoy- the all-cork rod handle, (known as the
ment” a lot, sometimes twice on the Tennessee handle) to keep the combo
same page. With its instructive text lighter and more comfortable in the
and “hero” pictures, the book is a hand.
great throwback to the days (not that He also recommends using 4,
long ago) when guys brought chain 6 and 8-pound monofilament, with
stringers full of big bass back to the 6-pound the choice 75 percent of the
launch and everyone approved. time and 4-pound about 23 percent of
Slider fishing is as basic as bass the time. Eight-pound is rarely used.
Withstanding an assault of
“Wife Logic”
F
ootfalls approached “You mean to tell me you don’t
from the rear. Too late. know how many guns you own?”
I had been discovered, “Well, now I do.”
and I knew what I was “Don’t you think if you have so
in for if this scene many that you need to refresh your
continued unabated. So, memory on how many you have by
I did the only thing I could do and counting them that you have too
closed my eyes real tight in hopes I many?” As hunters, we sometimes face the difficult task of convincing our
wouldn’t be seen. No help. “Huh?” better halves of our need to have a specific firearm for each type
SHE was there. “Sell some.” of game we pursue. Tailfeather Communications, LLC. photos
“Whatcha’ doin’, Tom?” my “I can’t. I need each one.”
wife Maureen asked. “For what?” needed to buy the same model gun I stand guns or hunting, but, you see
Still gazing at the open gun “Well, that black semiauto had borrowed there.” my dear, it’s nicer to own a gu––”
vault, I replied, “Nothin’” with 12-gauge Weatherby––” “Sell it. What about that one?” “Sell it. What about that one?”
enough emphasis to put the matter “I have no idea what you’re “That’s for pheasants.” She pointed to another matte
to rest. At least that’s what I thought. talking about. Just point.” “When’s the last time you went black 12-gauge, this one a pump
“No, you’ve been down here “Well that matte black one pheasant hunting?” with a shorter barrel and customized
for ten minutes just staring into that there I need for duck hunting.” “2013?” with a flashlight installed beneath
gun cabinet.” Then excitement built “Mmm hmm! And when is the “Couldn’t you use the same the muzzle and a shotshell holder
in her voice, “Are you thinking of last time you went duck hunting?” one for pheasants as you use for screwed into the side of the receiver.
selling some?” “Umm … I don’t know. I think ducks or for your other hunting?” “Zombie apocalypse.”
“Sell? What? No! I can’t do it was 2011 when I went to Alberta. Wife logic in action. “Sell.”
that. I was just counting how many But that was mainly for geese. “Well, I guess that seems rea- This line of questioning could
guns I have.” Anyway, I had such a good time I sonable to one who doesn’t under- have gone on interminably had I not
Mid Thumb Game Ranch

Southeast Michigan Bowhunters Chapter - SCI
28th Annual
Fund Raiser
Banquet
& Outfitter’s Party
545 West Burnsline • Melvin, Michigan 48454
M-90 between M-53 & M-19 -- Approx. 50 Miles North of Detroit
Saturday, March 23, 2019
Laurel Manor  39000 Schoolcraft Rd. in Livonia
4:00 pm - Raffles, Silent Auctions & Exhibits Open 4:30 pm - Cocktails Begin
6:30 p.m. - Dinner followed by Live Auction
Contact at 810-378-5632
OVER 700 Attendees SERVED Dinner  Open Bar
DAILY 7 AM - 10 PM
30+ Outfitter & Exhibitor Booths
$250,000 Live Auction  Silent Auctions  Huge Raffles
80+ Hunting & Fishing Trips  Wildlife Art
Guns & Bows  Hunting GEAR  TAXIDERMY& More!!!
80 ACRES, MOSTLY
Dinner: Filet Mignon  Boneless Breast of Chicken 
ON-LINE LIVE AUCTION AVAILABE AT WWW.MYHUNTINGAUCTIONS.COM

Potato  Vegetable
(See Chapter Website for Auction Details after February 15th)

 Salad  Dessert  & More
WOODED-HEAVY COVER
All proceeds go to further SCI's wildlife conservation, education, humanitarian and governmental affairs
programs to ensure the future of North America's great wildlife management system and proud hunting
heritage. The Southeast Michigan Bowhunters Chapter of SCI is on guard to assist with funding and
manpower wherever animal-rights extremists threaten our sport. Your support helps us build a solid
NO LICENSE
future for sportsmen and wildlife. If you enjoy our sport as much as we do, we welcome you to attend this
gala event and to join Michigan’s most effective organization in protecting your “Right To Hunt”.
Mail Order Form to: Rich DeLisle / SCI-Tickets, 4810 N. Fleming Rd., Fowlerville, MI 48836
Email: 3839rich@gmail.com, Phone: (517) 545-4642, Cell (248) 345-1986
REQUIRED
------------------ SCI BANQUET Ticket Order Form -----------------
Ticket orders must be received by March 15th for advance ticket pricing!
$50 Deposit (personal check)
Please send ______ Fund Raiser Banquet Individual Ticket(s) only $85.00 per person .............. $__________
Please send ______ Fund Raiser Banquet Reserved Table(s) of Ten $800.00 per table* ........... $__________
Table Reservation Name: ________________________________________
Mail to:
TOTAL: $__________
WWW.MIDTHUMBGAMERANCH.NET
Name_____________________________________________
 Check Enclosed (payable to: SCI- SE Michigan Bowhunters)
Address___________________________________________
City__________________________ St____ Zip___________
 Charge to: __VISA __MC __Discover Exp. Date:_______
__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__
Card No.
Rams & Goats $325
Phone (________)___________________________________
E-mail Address_____________________________________ Signature_____________________________________
*Table purchasers will be entered into a limited drawing for $250 cash or a Henry .22 rifle!
Hogs Fallow Bucks $1,000
Mention code WW2019
Call For Availability
Fallow Does • Red Stag Does
to receive $500 OFF per ticket! PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE!
fiercely objected. “That’s how it came when I got ment.
“It’s not fair for you to tell me it.” “OK, then. How many
to sell these guns.” I made a pre- “You shoot it like that?” have you shot in the past
emptive flinch away from her. You “No. That’s how the factory five years?”
know, better safe than sorry. “I need sends them these days.” I took a moment to
them.” “What? You bought a gun and calculate.
“Need them for what?” have never shot it?” “One. But if you asked
“Just in case. Like this one.” “The appropriate venue hasn’t about the past six years it
I showed her another 12-gauge yet presented itself.” would be two. The grouse
semiauto. “How many more have you not gun and the replacement
“This one fits me better than shot?” grouse gun I bought but
any of my other guns do. I can hit “Let’s see … One … Two …” can’t hit anything with that
anything with it. So, I can’t sell this I stopped at six. I quit using. The last time I
one. I need it in case I no longer “Why do you buy all these shot it was six years ago.”
own the others.” guns that you don’t use?” “So, why don’t you
“So, why don’t you just sell “I didn’t buy all of them. Four sell the second one?”
all of them except that one, then?” of them I accidentally won at Ruffed You see? More wife
Maureen asked. Grouse Society and Pheasants For- logic meant to daze and
Oh my goodness! You see that? ever banquets.” confuse. But I parried her
Trying to sneak in some more wife “‘Accidentally’? How does that with some logic of my own.
logic in an effort to convince me work?” “But what would I use
to talk myself into thinking it’s my “I was just sitting there mind- if something goes wrong
idea to sell – Egad! She’s making ing my own business. Not my fault with the first one?”
me a headache. if they drew my ticket numbers.” Maureen’s glare told Beloved shotguns are not like clothes you
But if she thinks she’s going to She shifted gears again. me I had stumped her throw out if you haven’t worn them in a year.
get me to fall for that one, she’s got “Let’s look at it this way, then, beyond her willingness to be I haven’t shot yet. In Alberta, I
another thought coming. Tom. How many guns have you shot stumped. She took a moment herself borrowed a gun like that from the
“Tom, I’ve got another thought. in the past year?” to calculate. And then through lips guide, and I haven’t gone duck hunt-
How many guns do you own?” “One. My grouse gun. But as tight as a ventriloquist’s she spat, ing since then, as I previously said.
“You stopped me at twenty- shotguns are not like clothes that “And I suppose if I ask how many You never listen to me!”
seven.” you throw out if you haven’t worn of these guns you’ve shot in eight “That’s it, Tom! Just keep your
“Oh … my … goodness! Are them in a year. You need to adjust years, you’d say ‘three’ because guns. I give up.”
you kidding me? You really think for the “opportunities for diverse of that black one you used when “OK, thanks! Now if you’ll
you need all of those? All twenty- hunting experiences presented over you were duck hunting in Alberta. excuse me, I have to head to the
seven? What about this one? Why time” variable. Right?” garage and count fishing rods. Care
is there a zip tie holding the lever It took some rolling of her eyes, “Well … not actually,” I help- to join me?”
thingy open?” but she was able to make the adjust- fully offered. “That’s one of those “NO!”n
Fishing... Hunting... Or Just Simply

A Getaway Cabin To Enjoy Nature!!
Solid Logs with Perma Chink between
Cedar or Pine
• Fully Insulated
• Front Porch or Side Porch Styles Available
• Custom Built to Your Ideas!
• Stained & Preserved
• Delivered to Surrounding States
• Sizes from 8’ to 36’ Long!!
• Single and 2 Story Styles
• Delivered & Priced Fully Assembled
From jumbo perch to mighty pike, you’re sure to catch just what
you’re fishing for on the majestic Betsie and Platte Rivers or one of
the 57 pristine inland lakes in Benzie County. Plus, guided ice and
river trips are available as are all of your fishing needs.
Relax In Style! For information about ice conditions, supplies, guides and
accommodations, go to visitbenzie.com.
visitbenzie.com
1205 N. SR 5
Shipshewana
260-768-7511
Open:
Monday-Friday • 8-5
Saturday • 8-3:30

GIANTS in the
EARTH
A
chain saw snarling wood to a nearby splitter.
in the neighborhood For a moment I imagined a
one winter morn- hunting party from the distant past.
ing prompted my They had killed a huge animal and
curiosity. the tribal village would
Who was have meat for weeks. The
cutting? What were they scene of triumph and joy
cutting and why? before me brought to mind
Deciding to snoop, I those flickering black-and- Mastodon skeleton at the University of Michigan’s Museum of Natural History.
arrived to a buzz of activ- white travelogues of my
ity. A half-dozen people youth: memories of pyg- date, the oldest discovery is bones was recording his own history
were swarming over an mies cutting up an African from a mammoth that roamed Mid- halfway around the world, Michigan
enormous beech they had elephant, Eskimos butcher- land County some 24,000 years ago, mastodons might have been in their
toppled. The ing a whale. between the third and fourth glacia- last stage of existence.
growl of not
one chain saw,
Michigan Meanders Similar
events prob-
tions that blanketed Michigan.
Radiocarbon dating suggests that
I recall reading a selection of
scientific papers called “Michigan’s
but two, filled
the air. One
By Tom Huggler ably occurred
right here
mammoths became extinct here, as
well as throughout the world, about
Ice Age Behemoths” that appeared
in Michigan Academician some
man lopped in southern 8,000 to 10,000 years ago. Some years ago. It was a fascinating com-
naked branches while another dis- Michigan in the days when giants researchers think that mastodons pilation of what is known about the
sected the massive tree’s gray trunk. walked the land. The giants were might have survived another couple hairy elephant-like creatures with
Other workers dragged away the mastodons and mammoths, and the of thousand years. long curving tusks.
limbs and rolled the heavy wheels of hunters were Ice Age natives. To Imagine: About the time man Mammoths were as tall as 14
Tom Carney
Open Mon thru Fri
9am-7pm • Sat 9am-6pm
Sun 9am-4pm
1380 N. Cedar
Among the Aspens

(517) 699-0597
(½ Mile South of Holt, 127 to
Cedar St. exit, North 2 Miles)
Over 2,000 Guns in Stock
INDOOR GUN RANGE
Award-winning nature and outdoor Hand Guns, Long Guns, Muzzleloading,
writer Thomas Carney returns to Reloading Supplies, Ammo, Archery & Accessories
form in his latest collection of
• CASH FOR USED GUNS • INDOOR GUN RANGE
essays, Among the Aspens: Stolen • GUNS, NEW & USED • CCW COURSE • GUN SAFES (In Stock)
Moments in Secret Coverts.
Full Line of Gunsmithing • NRA Certified Instructors
As with his previous collections,
Sun-Drenched Days, Two-Blanket Full Line Archery & Fishing Tackle • Live Bait & Tackle Available
Nights; and Bird Dogs and Betty
Cakes, Tom employs a variety of 2018 GUN & KNIFE SHOWS
perspectives and presentations For information call (517) 676-4160
as his writing glides effortlessly
across the lines that delineate Jan. 26-27 . . . . . . . 250 Tables . . . . . . . . . . Manistee Mar. 9-10 . . . . . . . . 450 Tables . . . . . . . Grand Rapids
serious writing, humor, nostalgia, Feb. 2-3 . . . . . . . . . 400 Tables . . . . . . . . . . Port Huron Mar. 16-17 . . . . . . . 700 Tables . . . . . . . . . . . Birch Run
analysis, description and storytelling.
Different this time around: Instead Feb. 8-10 . . . . . . . . 440 Tables . . . . . . Lansing/Mason Mar. 23-24 . . . . . . . 250 Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . Cadillac
of moving from activity to activity Feb. 16-17 . . . . . . . 400 Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . Monroe Mar. 30-31 . . . . . . . 275 Tables . . . . . . . . . . Kalamazoo
with the progressing seasons as he
did in his first two books of essays, Feb. 23-24 . . . . . . . 900 Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Novi Apr. 6-7 . . . . . . . . . 440 Tables . . . . . . Lansing/Mason
in Among the Aspens Tom delivers Mar. 2-3 . . . . . . . . . 450 Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flint Apr. 13-14 . . . . . . . 350 Tables . . . Detroit/Brownstown
the goods through a single form
of outdoor recreation: upland bird Sport Shows Promotions, INC.
www.migunshows.com • sportshows@gmail.com
hunting. P.O. Box 404 • Mason, MI 48854
To purchase: $34.95 (Michigan residents, please add $2.10 sales tax) plus Ph: (517) 676-4160 • Fax: (517) 676-6824
Frankenmuth
Credit Union Manistee Little River Casino Lansing/Mason Ingham Detroit/Brownstown
$6.35 postage/handling Intersection
Port Huron
500 Thomas Edison Pkwy County Fairgrounds Brownstown Sport Center
Event Center 21902 Telegraph Rd.
I-75 @ Exit 136 US.31 & M-22 Blue Water Convention Center 700 E. Ash
Send check or money order to: Partridge Pointe Press, 2470 Strawberry
Brownstown Charter Twp, MI 48183
Dort Federal Event Cntr. Novi
Cheboygan Ice Arena Suburban Collection Showplace Cadillac: Wexford Arena
3501 Lapeer Rd.
Farm St. NE, Belmont, Michigan 49306. 480 Cleveland Flint, MI 48503 46100 Grand River 131 & 13th St.
Monroe County Alpena (New Location) Kalamazoo County Grand Rapids Harrison
Fairgrounds 751 Woodward Ave. Expo Center 4 Mile Rd Showplace Clare County Fairgrounds
Purchase online at www.tomcarneywriter.com MBT Expo Center Alpena, MI 49207 2900 Lake St. 1025 Four Mile Rd. N.W. Grand Rapids 418 Fairlane

feet at the shoulder and weighed species-specific. All locations have As the weather cooled, spruce There is no “smoking gun”
eight to 10 tons. They ate as much as occurred south of the 44th parallel forests appeared and then were evidence that humans in Michigan
700 pounds of vegetation each day of latitude, or roughly below a line followed by pine and oak-hickory. actually hunted either beast. Howev-
and lived to be 60 to 80 years old. from Ludington to Standish. These changes allowed mastodons er, cut marks on bones and arrange-
Mastodons were smaller, weighing Originally subtropical animals, and mammoths to live together for ment of skeletons and other evidence
four to six tons and standing eight to the huge mammals wandered into about 4,000 years following the indicate they butchered the animals,
10 feet at the shoulder. Oddly, mast- North America from Europe and glacial retreat. perhaps when they were already
odon skulls were larger. Besides Asia across the Bering Land Bridge Mastodons, though, had a trapped and dead or dying.
size, scientists are able to tell apart as long ago as 18 million years. In broader tolerance for diverse habi- But there is no doubt that early
the two species by studying their time they spread across the conti- tats, ranging from needle-bearing natives in Nebraska hunted mammals
different tooth structure and shape of nent from the Arctic to Florida. The and broadleaf forests to swamps with Clovis spear points designed for
ivory tusks. arrival of their cold-loving descen- and open grasslands mixed with killing big game. Researchers have
You can see a skeletal mount of dants in Michigan coincided with the meadows. Mammoths, on the other found similar “fluted” spear points in
a female mastodon at the University retreat of glaciers from the southern hand, roamed more treeless habitats southern Michigan. If active hunting
of Michigan Exhibit Museum in Ann Lower Peninsula. including prairie, tundra and taiga. occurred here, it could have led to
Arbor. A larger mastodon, thought Maybe the last ice wave hung on For this reason, mastodons may the animals’ demise.
to be male, is at the Highland Lakes too long for the right mix of plants have outnumbered mammoths in About 40 years ago an Ionia
Campus of Oakland Community to grow in northern Michigan. An- Michigan by a five-to-one ratio. In County man found a mastodon molar
College in Union Lake. other theory suggests the creatures prairie Nebraska the opposite is true: from the bank of a drainage ditch
Whole and nearly whole skel- were attracted to salt deposits (as are Mammoths had the upper hand by a a few miles north of my property.
etons like these are rare indeed. modern-day elephants), which are ratio of eight to one. Twenty years before that most of a
Typically, researchers have only a abundant in Michigan south of the Most mastodon remains have mastodon skeleton was excavated
few bones and in some cases a single 44th parallel. been found in swamps and bogs as- only two miles south of my home.
tooth to go on. Pollen studies from soils un- sociated with peat, marl and muck. I know these very giants, and
Since the state’s first discovery earthed with bones tell researchers Attracted to these lowland sites for others like them, had to walk my
along Calhoun County’s Rice Creek a great deal about climate changes shelter and food in winter, the heavy land.
in 1834 or 1835, scientists have and vegetation. About 13,000 years animals probably broke through and To be sure, there were no chain
documented more than 200 mast- ago when the first humans arrived in could not free themselves. The partly saws then. There may have been no
odon finds from 41 counties and Lower Michigan, ponds and sedge frozen mats of vegetation in these beech trees for them to rub against
about 50 mammoth remains from marsh dominated the landscape, “quaking bogs” became traps and or strip clean of leaves. All the
25 counties. Other finds from these and forest cover was scattered and then graves. Acid conditions helped same, imagination insists the neigh-
and other Michigan counties are not sparse. preserve the hapless creatures. borhood will never be the same.n
Hello, this is Charlie Morse.

I don't have a lifetime to wait!
Air pruned containerized
plants, equals RESULTS SOONER!
Visit MI.DUCKS.ORG for more information, or contact

Dean Noble, MI DU Volunteer Chairman (989) 414-0981
Jim Toth, MI DU State Chairman
(810) 869-5323 • jagermeisterjt@gmail.com
Another
Bucket List
Destination!
By John Bergsma
I
absolutely love going to Canada and
experiencing the pristine scenery and
unspoiled lakes that it offers. Last spring,
I was invited to visit a place that is truly
unique, Kesagami Wilderness Lodge.
This famed Northern Ontario lodge has
long been on my radar as a place I wanted to go.
It’s been known for decades as one of the best
“Big Pike” lakes anywhere in Ontario.
My trip began at Cochrane Air Service, and
after a very pleasant flight, I arrived to the service
that Charlie McDonald and the staff at Kesagami
are famous for. As we got off the plane we were
immediately greeted by Charlie and a gang of
attentive staff. They took all our gear directly
to our cabins while we took a scenic stroll up to
the main lodge for a fresh homemade breakfast The author, John Bergsma with a monster nor thern pike taken on this bucket list trip.
then we were shown our cabin and our guide was
waiting there to take us out for an exciting first the lake inside and out. This was the first of many pleasant surprises on
day of fishing! Jake, our guide, was flat out awe- I was here to just relax and catch fish. We this trip. Walleye fishing at Kesagami is as fast
some. He, like all the guides at Kesagami, knew warmed up on 20-30 walleye at the first stop. and furious as I have ever experienced. The cool
with your host
n B e r g sm a
Jo h Now on...
CBSSN: Saturday’s at 7:30 a.m January-March
Fox Sports Detroit: Sunday’s at 7:00 a.m January-June
Online viewing at: www.fishermansdigest.com
Visit our website and find out about . . .
• Destinations • Fishing Reports •
• Our Show • Cooks Corner •

Country Smoke House’s
Awesome Chili
Ingredients
thing about it was that it was simple fishing. swim bait style plastics like the Strike King 56 oz diced tomato
No live bait, we simply dragged small jigs and Swimming Shiner. Top water lures, like the Sexy 24 oz tomato juice
brightly colored grub bodies. Our best bait ended Dog were tons of fun when fishing over top of the 15 oz whole kernel
up being a Strike King crappie body called a cabbage. But by far the best bait was the Strike corn
Shad Pole in the 2-inch size. The best colors were King 4.5-inch Rage Craw in white. I’ve come to 15.5 oz red beans
Green/White, Pink/Green and the ever reliable label this the “best pike bait” in the world. 15.5 oz can kidney beans
Chartreus/Green. Here’s how I rig it: I use a #4/0 or 5/0 offset 4.25 oz chopped black olives
I used 1/8 oz. jigs. That is another awesome worm hook, I rig the Rage Craw to fish weed- 14 oz white mushrooms (chopped)
thing about Kesagami, it’s not a deep lake. This less. There’s a groove already in the bait to help 1 Vidalia onion diced
makes for easy fishing as you’re not having to you with this. You can fish it weightless in very 8 oz banana peppers
search the depths for fish, but rather just back- shallow water or peg some weight (1/8 to 1/2 oz.) 1.25 lb fresh ground pork
trolling or fast drifting the edges of rock and directly in front of the bait. How much weight 1.25 lb ground beef
gravel flats. The numbers here are flat out amaz- depends on how deep you want to get. This setup 1 lb Country Smokehouse sausage
ing. The one day we kept track of our fish count, can be fished through any cover and pike and big of choice. quartered and diced
we stopped at 176 walleye and many medium walleye simply crush it! ½ stick of butter
sized pike mixed in. While advertised as a great This is by far the best and easiest pike setup 2 oz garlic powder
pike lake, this may well be one of the best wall- I’ve ever tied on. The best colors are white or red. 2 oz salt
eye lakes in Ontario as well! I fish this setup using a 24 inch 30 lb. Seagar flu- 4 oz chili powder
The northern pike is the king of Kesagami, orocarbon leader. It’s durable and I’ve only been 1 oz pepper
and I got my fill of catching 30 to 43-inch pike. cut off twice in two years of fishing this setup. 1 oz crushed red pepper flakes
This fishery is very exciting because it is a shal- The quality of the pike fishing was awesome. 1 tsp allspice
low water presentation, and there are so many Our group caught dozens of pike from 30 inches
Directions
spots to fish. Basically, the entire lakeshore is all the way up to my 43 inch behemoth. Most
Begin by melting butter in a large pot on
covered with pencil reeds and cabbage. Anyone came in the shallow reed beds, but we did catch a
high. Once melted, add ground beef, pork,
who knows pike fishing would just salivate at all few in the deep weeds that scatter throughout the
diced sausage and onions, and cook these in-
the perfect pike habitat. Miles and miles of shal- lake. My best day for size was a 34, 36, 39 and a
gredients on high for 5 minutes. Add the rest
low weeds, reeds and rock points and gravel bars 43 incher. From the crazy attentive service, to in-
of the ingredients and bring back to a simmer.
make for an endless number of great spots to fish. credible food, to the best shore lunch, Kesagami
Stir occasionally while simmering for an ad-
There are a few baits that you should bring Wilderness Lodge and it’s amazing fishing is a
ditional 15 minutes. Then reduce to low and
with you. My top three producers were 4-6-inch “Sure Thing” bucket list adventure. n
serve to your guests as they desire.
This recipe was provided by Chef Grant Bergsma at Fisherman’s Digest TV. For more recipes and excellent
video fishing reports check out www.fishermansdigest.com or on Facebook@Great Lakes Fishermans Digest.
Weller Auto
Huntin’
OV E R 1 0 0
Time Expo
FREE Delta Plex Arena,
Quality Parking Grand Rapids
Exhibits
January 25 - 27
TH TH
F R I DAY
3pm – 8pm Friday 1pm-9pm, Saturday 9am-7pm,
Sunday 9am-5pm
S AT U R DAY For more info go to...
10am – 7pm www.huntingshows.net or call 616-887-7210
Admission $12 • Kids 5-12 $5 • Kids FREE On Sunday • FREE PARKING
S U N DAY Woods-n-Water News

10am – 4pm Michigan’s Premier Outdoor Publication
www.woods-n-waternews.com

TROLLING SPEED
Monitoring trolling speed both at the
surface and below the surface is how elite
anglers dial in trolling presentations. All
modern sonar/GPS units give excellent
Speed Over Ground trolling speeds, but
to get sub-surface trolling data requires
investing in a sub-surface probe such as
produced by Fish Hawk Electronics.
N
ext to target ing path is essentially speeding up any given day. The problem is be- can’t be idled down slow enough for
depth, the most baits pulled on the outside turn and cause the trolling speed is constantly many fishing applications.
important vari- at the same time is slowing down fluctuating, it’s tough to pin down
able associated those baits on the inside turn. exactly what speed is triggering the GPS Guided
most strikes.
with trolling
can be summed
If while trolling the lazy “S” pat-
tern more bites are occur- The solution to this Electric Motors
up in two ring on the outside turn, this kicker motor problem is to The gasoline kicker motor is the
words... boat speed. Ironically most is an indication that speed- invest in an after-market workhorse of small boat trolling, but
avid trollers don’t fully understand ing up the overall trolling throttle control. Both wire- increasingly more and more anglers
how boat or trolling speed pro- speed is in order. On the less and hard-wired models are also incorporating GPS guided
foundly influences fishing success. other hand, if more bites are are on the market that use electric motors in their trolling
Understanding trolling speed is coming on the inside turn a rheostat to stabilize the regiment. The advantages of these
also essential for anglers who plan this is suggesting that slow- speed and also to make electric motors are profound. For
to mix two or more common fishing ing down the overall speed precise changes to trolling one, because electric motor thrust is
presentations in the same trolling is in order. speed. Panther controlled by a rheostat switch, it’s
pattern. Say for example you want
to fish bottom hugging lake trout
On any
given day on
By Mark Romanack Marine Prod-
ucts is an in-
possible to make and maintain very
precise changes in trolling speed.
using the classic dodger and Yakima the water the most productive troll- dustry leader in developing throttle Secondly, because these elec-
Spin-n-Glow combination. This ing speed is a mystery. The only controls for outboard kicker motors. tric motors can be set to follow a
rig fishes best at 1.7 to 1.9 MPH. compass heading it’s possible to
Mixing this presentation with a lead
way to determine this variable is by
experimenting with speed until a Two Stoke Kickers duplicate productive trolling passes
core and spoon program wouldn’t productive pattern emerges. Thanks Many anglers might think that in a way never before possible with
work out well as most spoons have to modern GPS technology it’s the age of the two stroke kicker conventional trolling technology.
their best action at speeds above 2.0 possible to monitor and also adjust motor has passed. The only two Thirdly, GPS guided electric
MPH. trolling speed down to variables of stroke kicker still on the market is motors also allow anglers to set
Understanding what trolling just 1/10th of a mile per hour. produced by Evinrude, their 15 HO down specific waypoints and pro-
speeds produce best with specific E-Tec. Heavy duty, this engine was gram the electric motor to navigate
trolling hardware is important, but Making Small built on the 25 HP E-Tec frame and
modified to create a kicker motor
from waypoint to waypoint. This
feature essentially allows the angler
there is a lot more to understand
about trolling speed. Speed Changes that would bring to market some to follow meandering weed edges or
Historically, most open water critically important features. drop-offs like a beagle following a
Triggering Strikes trolling chores have been conducted The 15 HO has a push button rabbit track!
Most serious anglers agree that with the help of a small gasoline throttle control right on the tiller The MotorGuide Xi5 uses the
trolling speed is a decisive strike outboard commonly called the handle. With a touch of a button, unique Pinpoint GPS tracking
triggering element. Because lure “kicker.” Kicker motors these days the engine RPMs can be changed technology that allows anglers to
action changes as boat speed is are largely four stroke outboards in 50 RPM increments. This feature benefit from several critical trolling
increased and decreased, anglers can that are noticeably finicky when it makes it easy to dial in a specific functions including Heading Lock,
fine tune a trolling bite by mak- comes to running at a consistent trolling speed and also to change Route Playback and Cruise Control.
ing controlled adjustments to the RPM range. speeds quickly as needed. In the Heading Lock mode the unit
trolling speed. Often it only takes a Because four stroke outboards The 15 HO also features a will follow a course and maintain
minor change in speed to literally don’t idle and slow troll at a con- reverse thrust prop that allows the that course precisely. In the Route
light up a bite! sistent RPM range, trolling speeds RPMs to be kept high, while at the Playback mode up to eight different
This is precisely why many tend to vary constantly while fish- same time keeping trolling speeds trolling routes can be programmed
trollers lecture to avoid trolling in a ing. Some might imagine this is an slow, slower yet and still slower. and duplicated again and again.
straight line, but rather to troll in a advantage in terms of finding the This is one of the biggest problems The Cruise Control mode allows
lazy “S” pattern. A wandering troll- “most productive” trolling speed on with four stroke kickers, they simply for a trolling speed to be precisely
maintained while in Heading Lock
or Route Playback mode compensat-
Trolling
ing for the effects of both wind and Speed at Depth
current. The trolling speeds indicated by
Two Motor Trolling a GPS unit are of course the speed
over ground the boat is maintain-
Since the invention of GPS ing at the water surface. Below the
guided electric motors, a growing surface things can be and often are
number of anglers are incorporating much different.
both a gasoline outboard and elec- Subsurface currents are a
tric motor into their daily trolling common problem associated with
regiment. Depending on the target trolling in the Great Lakes and other
trolling speed either a kicker motor deep water natural lakes. The Great
or a primary outboard can be used Lakes are actually a huge river
to generate the desired speed. The system, with the water flowing from
GPS electric motor is in turn used Lake Superior in the western Great
to tweak trolling speed and also to Lakes to where they drain into the
provide GPS navigation chores. Saint Lawrence River.
The Fishing 411 crew uses this Flowing steadily from a west-
two motor trolling option routinely. erly to easterly direction, Great
For salmon, trout, pike, musky and Lakes anglers are faced with some
warm water walleye fishing where amazingly strong surface and also
trolling speeds are 2.2 to 3.0 MPH subsurface currents. To complicate
the primary outboard is generally matters, layers of water in the Great
used in combination with the GPS Lakes tend to stratify further creat-
guided electric motor. ing subsurface currents that are
Many modern V6 outboard impossible to monitor without the Retired Marine Jason Ostrander caught this impressive rainbow on
motors have special throttle con- help of a subsurface probe. the author’s boat by paying close attention to both surface and
trols that make it easy for anglers to The Fish Hawk X4 Plus Depth is sub-surface trolling speeds. Mark Romanack photos
dial in specific trolling speeds. The a probe that mounts to a downrigger
Evinrude G2 fly by wire throttle ball that effectively provides anglers X4 is it requires the use of a down- also show temperature preferences.
controls can deliver amazingly re- trolling speed, depth and critical rigger to deploy the probe. Fish A growing number of walleye an-
fined throttle adjustments. A digital temperature information at depth. Hawk recently released a portable glers are also convinced that trolling
gauge clearly shows the percent- The system functions via a trans- sub-surface speed and temperature speed at depth is one of the most
age of throttle making it possible to ducer based signal eliminating any probe called the X2. This unit uses overlooked aspects of big water
make adjustments as refined as 1% need for special downrigger cables the same trustworthy probe used walleye fishing.
of throttle! on the X4, but uses a short/stiff rod
For slower trolling speeds com-
to transfer data.
By monitoring the trolling speed
with a line counter reel to deploy the Summing It Up
monly used for targeting cold water probe. Braided line is loaded onto Trolling speed is one of those
at depth it’s possible to detect sub-
walleye, brown trout or lake trout, the reel and a special transducer fishing variables that seems straight
a gasoline kicker motor is used in surface currents and make sure that slips over the line and runs about a forward, but in truth is a highly
combination with the GPS guided trolling gear at depth is fishing at the foot under the surface. complex subject. Those anglers who
electric motor. proper speed. Without the help of The transducer communicates embrace trolling speed as a means
When trolling at ultra-slow electronics like the X4D unit an an- with the probe for critical tem- of triggering strikes are in the fast
speeds such as cold water crankbait gler is literally guessing what speed perature and trolling speed at depth track to fishing success. To the
trolling walleye or live bait rigging, his gear is fishing at depth. information. This data is displayed anglers who ignore trolling speed
trolling with just the GPS guided Because a lot of trolling gear is on a portable LCD monitor. The and the impact it has on open water
electric motor is the ticket. A typical highly speed sensitive, it’s critically whole X2 unit is small enough it trolling, maybe they would be more
36 volt electric motor will troll a important to know how fast gear is packs up into a handy carrying case, successful at golf?
20 foot “walleye boat” for about 12 trolling at depth. For example, most making it ideal for the small boat Mark Romanack is the host of
hours on a full battery charge. trolling spoons have their best ac- angler. Fishing 411 Television that broad-
Between the primary outboard, tion at speeds from 1.9 to 2.5 MPH. The X2 not only provides the casts nationally on Sportsman Chan-
kicker motors and GPS guided If at depth these lures fall below this small boat angler with critically nel and World Fishing Network.
electric motors, there are virtually threshold, the baits will have little important trout and salmon fishing Fishing 411 TV can also be viewed
no trolling situations that can’t be action and produce poorly. data, this same information is being for free online at www.carbontv.com
mastered with these products. The down side of the Fish Hawk used to target trophy walleye that and at www.myoutdoortv.com.n
DOUBLE REBATES ON
All Remaining 2018’s in Dealer Inventory
BUY $
64,095
THE ULTIMATE DEEP-V MACHINE
WX 2060
with VF250XA Engine 250 Horsepower
Includes Yamaha T9.9 Kicker Engine
and Minn-Kota 112# Ulterra Trolling Motor
FOR **Plus freight, prep and sales tax.
$
6,000 in standard equipment. **After $1,500 rebate
Always
Service After 10 Miles East of Bay City on M-25 in Quanicassee
the Sale 989-893-9931 • www.lindyssales.com
Black Powder Shooting Sports...
Not a passing fad

A
n inquisitive finger She nodded, then answered with a
tapped. “What can knowing grin. He worked his way
you tell me about this through the flow of people at the
gun?” the fifty-some- 2018 Woods-N-Water News Out-
thing gentle- door Weekend, held at the
man asked as Eastern Michigan State
his index finger slid along Fairgrounds in Imlay City.
the walnut stock of the “You’re a bird hunter, I
percussion, double-barrel gather?” I said as his wife
shotgun on the table. joined him.
“You’re a doubles “Yes, waterfowl, grouse
shooter, aren’t you?” I said and woodcock…and
with a smile. sometimes rabbits, too. I’ve
“Yes, I grew thought about try-
up with a Stevens
double 20-gauge.
By Dennis Neely ing grouse hunting
with a muzzleload-
The double-set trigger on a custom-made Dicker t rifle facilitates
quick ignition once the sight picture centers on the intended point
How did you er. Is that possible? of impact. After the shot, this new shooter exclaimed, “I gotta have
know? Is this gun for sale?” How Do I Get Started? one of these!” Wild River tree photos
“An educated guess. And no, This is a common question
it’s not for sale. We display these forty clubs that hold monthly black Learn Safe Handling
asked of folks in the black powder powder shoots. Some events are Another advantage of seeking a
muzzleloaders to show what’s avail- shooting sports. Everyone’s answer
able.” open to the public, others to club mentor is your shooting will start at
is a little different, but as the en- members only or prospective mem- an established muzzleloading range.
Not a minute before, the fellow thusiasm for burning black powder
in the camo hunting jacket with the bers. For most locales, a muzzle- Shooting on the “back forty” is fine;
bubbles forth, the explanations loading club exists within an hour’s however, the preferred method of
use-darkened suede patch on the touch on the same suggestions, in no
right shoulder gave a second, seri- drive or less. learning muzzleloading care and
specific order. The Michigan State Muzzle safe handling is at a range under the
ous glance at the table as he walked
by. He stopped quick, tugged at his Find a Mentor Loading Association’s website guidance of a qualified range officer
wife’s left elbow and spoke to her. Michigan is blessed with nearly (http://msmla.org/) compiles a and/or instructor. Just like modern
“State Shoot Schedule” with club firearms, the front-loading guns
locations and contact informa-
e n
have specific requirements for both
n J ki ns
tion. Each club has one or more loading and safe use.
e
knowledgeable individuals who Most Michigan clubs adhere to
L
concentrate on helping newcomers. the NMLRA’s “Rules and Regu-
A “loaner gun” for first-time shoot- lations,” which address not only
ers is never far away. In addition, match competition requirements, but
HUNT CLUB
the National Muzzle Loading Rifle also present safe handling standards
Association (812-667-5131) has a in a simple, easy-to-understand
network of field representatives in format. A designated range officer,
each state ready and willing to assist often holding NMLRA certification,
newcomers and veterans alike. will be present for further assis-
Relying on a mentor smooths tance.
out the learning process and avoids Reasonable Expectations
the frustrations and pitfalls of the Regardless of past experience
“trial and error” route. A mentor is a
Custom Gun Dog Training English Setters valuable resource when questions or
or marksmanship ability, embarking
on a black powder odyssey means
problems arise, or when searching venturing into unfamiliar territory.
4989 Abbot Road • Reading, MI 49274 for a black powder rifle, shotgun or Allow for failures and setbacks, and
pistol to purchase. don’t expect pinpoint accuracy on
Hunts Conducted On
HARD-FLYING PHEASANTS
In Good Cover (Including Blues)
We Don’t Fool Around,

GUN DOG TRAINING • Drive-in housekeeping camp for Walleye, Pike & Smallmouth
EVERY SUNDAY • ATV-in island outpost on Wenebegon Lake for Walleye & Pike
Your Dog & You Will Be Great (Lunch Provided)
• Train-in outpost on Goldie Lake for Pike & Smallmouth
QUALITY ENGLISH • Black Bear hunting in an area over 300 sq.

miles, excellent success rates, all baiting,
SETTERS
From 47 Years Of Selective Breeding
retrieval, skinning and quartering included. Tree
stands and ground blinds provided. ATV’s highly
Farm Raised, Exposed to Gun Fire and on Pheasants recommended. Boat and motor provided for fishing.
705-864-0201 Chapleau, Ontario

CALL NOW! 517.283.1559 Web: www.fivemilelake.com  Email:fivemilelake@xplornet.com
the first shot. Burning charcoal is an investigate the black powder shoot- that were popular with the advent Keep a Shooting Journal
acquired habit that requires patient ing sports, they are “looking for of the muzzleloading deer seasons. Once an individual’s curiosity
practice to achieve a satisfactory a change,” just as the upland bird Barrel dimensions and bore diam- is tweaked, an “exploratory stage”
level of success—which is defined hunter was on that pleasant Septem- eter determine a gun’s weight. This begins. This is a time of discovery,
by each individual. ber Saturday. holds true for rifles, smoothbores a time for listening, learning and
Modern rifles, shotguns and Sights attract immediate and pistols. taking notes. A blank-page jour-
pistols all possess different ballistic attention when a novice shoulders The gun builders of two centu- nal, recipe cards, folded computer
properties. They have strengths and a muzzleloader for the first time. ries ago were conscious of weight paper or sticky notes placed in a file
weaknesses, advantages and limita- With a few exceptions, state and and use, just as manufacturers are folder all work. The idea is to record
tions. Arms that use black powder as national competitive matches today. A classic Pennsylvania rifle fresh knowledge, both after the first
a propellant have similar pluses and require sights that are consistent with a 42-inch swamped octagon shooting session and as the journey
minuses. with the original arms as they were barrel (large at the breech and begins.
For example, a Civil War musket produced. Each category of historic muzzle with a thinner waist) offered After purchasing that first muz-
or slug gun might be accurate to 500 arms—bench rifles, chunk guns, a balanced alternative to the earlier zleloader, notes are invaluable when
yards or beyond; a heavy bench gun military muskets, trade guns—were straight barreled designs. one builds up his or her load and
or a German Schuetzen rifle is ca- made with a specific style of sight. A If a chosen style muzzleloader learns about the foibles associated
pable of a “50” at 200 yards; a fine heavy reliance on open iron sights, includes a heavier barrel, today’s with a specific black powder gun.
Pennsylvania longrifle might group or some variation, is common. For shooter quickly adapts and meets What’s Right For You?
well at 150 yards; a choked, double- modern shooters who rely on scoped this challenge. When shooting For the upland bird hunter, a
barrel shotgun will break birds at 40 arms, open iron sights are an adjust- offhand the added weight becomes a reproduction double-barrel shotgun
yards; and a French, smooth-bored ment. positive asset for those folks willing was the best choice. The guiding
flintlock pistol will produce tight Some front-loaders employ to allow time to adjust their shooting question is always, “What modern
groups at 25 yards. The capability a “set trigger,” either single- or styles. arm do you like to shoot?” That
of each gun and the marksman who double-set in nature. A set Cleaning is another area that inquiry often leads to an overlooked
controls it are the governing factors trigger is a mechanical device draws criticism from those outside answer, “Then pursue your passion
when it comes to accuracy, just as for releasing the lock by applying the sport. Experienced muzzleload- with a muzzleloader!”
with modern arms. a minimum of pressure, maybe ing fans consider the cleanup a part From there, the search for an
Expect a Slower Pace six ounces, on the trigger itself. of the nostalgia, just as modern appropriate black powder arm can
Plinking away with a .22-caliber This is a vast improvement over shooters take time to swab out the begin. But realize that once the
rifle, swinging a favorite over-and- the simple trigger with a pull of bore and oil the action after a shoot- plunge is taken, the black powder
under on a true pair at the sporting three pounds. ing session. Most mentors include shooting sports will become a long-
clays range or pinging steel silhou- Trigger mechanisms vary, and step-by-step instructions that sim- term journey…not a passing fad.
ettes with a couple clips of pistol the intricacies of operation must plify the learning process, and for Now is the time to give the black
ammo relaxes and cleanses one’s be studied before the first charge many, cleaning is a time for social- powder shooting sports a try, be safe
inner being. The same is true for of black powder tumbles down the izing and good-natured kidding, too. and may God bless you.n
muzzleloading, but that exhilara- bore. The advantage of the set trig-
tion is spread over 20 or so shots in ger system is it allows the shooter
an afternoon. The time spent is just a quick, consistent dispatch of the
as beneficial, but the pace is slower shot when the sight picture is per-
and more deliberate. fect.
Be Ready For The notion that all muzzleload-
New Challenges ers are “heavy” comes from the bar-
When many modern shooters rel weight of the Hawken-style rifles
Muzzle Loading State Events

Feb. 2 - MSMLA Annual Meeting: Eaton Rapids CC: 11 a.m.: 989-746-0723
Feb. 8-10 - Hog Rendezvous: Sauk Trail Long Rifles: Tecumseh: 517-879-3096
Feb. 10 - Woods Walk: Clinton River Muzzle Loaders
Detroit Sportsman Congress: 586-292-6821
Feb. 17 - Numb Skull Shoot: Bridgeport: 989-746-0723
For a complete 2019 shoot schedule, send a SASE or email to: Ron Fernwalt,
16808 Peach Ridge, Kent City, MI, 49330, or email Ron rbfern@triton.net
NO TIME
FOR A WEEK
AWAY?
CALL FOR GREAT
1/2 WEEK
SPECIALS!
Grand Rapids, MI 616-538-5000

Kalamazoo, MI 269-381-9490 • South Bend, IN 574-282-2900
• New, Surplus, and Recycled Auto Parts
• Remanufactured Engines and Transmissions
• New, Recycled, and Rebuilt Driveline Components
• Quality Parts Guaranteed
www.wellerauto.com
Unlucky Buck
By Darryl Quidort
I
understand that over 60 with traditional gear on a well con-
percent of Michigan bow- ducted hunt is a trophy. My family
hunters are now using a likes venison, and year after year
crossbow. Most of the rest I’ve taken bucks with my simple
shoot a compound bow. I traditional archery gear. In fact, I’ve
guess that makes me the kind of quit writing about it because
oddball old guy that still hunts with I’m not doing anything new or dif-
his old Black Widow recurve bow. ferent; just bowhunting the way I Lucky hunter.
But that’s okay, I kinda like that prefer to do it. Unlucky buck.
description. The ideal situation for me is a
For me, bowhunting is a close completely relaxed, broadside deer movement ends during mid-morning range when she became
range, intimate type of hunt. It’s at close range. The preferred shot ing. In the evening it seems like deer tired of the game, turned and
hunting that I actually prefer to do is just behind the shoulder. A sharp movement just gets started when the slowly headed for the state land.
alone. It takes time, sometimes quite broadhead arrow that pierces both hunt is ended by darkness. Besides, The buck, however, advanced
a bit of time, to get within close lungs will cause a quick ending. I’d much rather shoot a deer when on my trail for a few more steps.
range of an unalarmed buck with a I don’t like to watch a deer die. there is plenty of time to track it, This was getting good. Then he
clear flight path for an arrow. That’s Hopefully, they run just out of sight recover it, take photos, drag it out, stopped and stared longingly at the
part of the challenge that causes to crash. After giving them enough and hang it up without the need for a doe as she walked away. I figured
me to slow down and enjoy the time for a dignified death, I follow flashlight or lantern. that he would turn and follow her…
whole hunting experience of sun- up and recover my deer. A buck I One morning last fall I was and I was ready.
rises, green pines, blue skies, falling took this past fall was kind of un- hunting in an area where deer travel I drew my bow as he slowly
leaves, first frosts, and of course usual though; not the deer itself, just as they leave private ground and turned and shot when he was broad-
buck rubs and scrapes. Successfully the situation. cross over into a large tract of state side. I shoot with both eyes open
taking a deer adds a sweet reward to There is some sort of magic in land where they bed down for the and I clearly saw the arrow in flight.
the enjoyment of bowhunting. morning hunts. It just feels “right” day. Why they do that is a mystery The shot looked good, until he sud-
With my bow, I’m not a trophy to be out there at daylight to watch to me. They’d be safer if they stayed denly dropped down and spun away
hunter. I make no excuse for the the sunrise for another day in the fall on the private land. from me at the sound of the string.
small size of some of my buck’s woods. I’ve taken far more bucks in Anyway, by daylight I was in my The razor sharp arrow, that would
antlers because I don’t need a mea- the morning than on evening hunts. stand in the middle of a thick area have hit him in the chest, passed just
suring tape to determine if they are It seems that after daylight the hunt- that deer naturally move through. over his shoulder as he spun away
a trophy. I feel that any deer taken ing gets better and better until deer It wasn’t long before a big doe and and hit him solidly in the back of
two fawns came through. I didn’t the head. To my astonishment, the
move a muscle as they went by me buck dropped like a heavy stone.
ED'S NEW DVD at close range and continued on I expected that he might jump up
without a clue I was there. That was and run, so I quickly drew a second
ULTIMATE good, because other deer might then arrow and shot him again. He never
CORN-BASED follow the same route. regained his feet.
DEER KILL PLOTS After a while three more ant-
lerless deer approached. As they
Some say it is better to be lucky
than good. Even though I felt that I
Takes you to a new concept of deer attraction. casually passed on the other side of had made a good shot, it was pure
Deer will freely enter your kill plot during daylight due
to the security and endless variety of forage deer prefer me that wise old doe noticed where luck to get that deer. More than once
I had walked to my stand. That was I’ve had them jump the string at that
Send Check or Money Order
ORDER Made Out to:
bad. But, a buck came along just distance and cause a complete miss.
YOUR Edward Spinazzola then and distracted her. That was This time dumb luck handed me a
COPY 4986 Winewood Lane good. However, she soon decided to punched tag, meat for the freezer
TODAY! Commerce, MI 48382 solve the mystery of the track and and a successful hunt. All I can say
began to follow me to my tree stand. is, thanks!
New DVD ~ $25 includes shipping That was bad. However, the buck The buck did everything right.
decided to follow close behind her. His senses were true, his reflexes
That could be good if she brought
Name
Address
were quick and his escape action
City State Zip
him within range. She advanced un- was sure. He was simply one un-
Phone # til she was getting into good shoot- lucky buck.n
ULTIMATE LAND MANAGEMENT FORAGE & COVER SEED FOR MICHIGAN PLOTS
Tony Lapratt and associate Chris Pierson The Brassica Blend provides both summer feed and winter forage. The Ultimate Blend is
an excellent mix that includes both annual and perennials. The Wildlife Cover and Forage Blend
Enjoy
with new associate Ed Spinazzola
WEBSITE -- tonysulm.com
is designed to keep deer on your property by providing them a bedding area and food in close
proximity. Go to deerattraction.com for a full list of ingredients and detailed planting instructions. Upland Bird Hunting
ULTIMATE DEER FOOD PLOTS OR CALL ED AT 586-784-8090 FOR MORE INFORMATION August 15—April 30
BOOK & DVD Seed Cost # Bags Total
Michigan Brassica Blend
ORDER YOUR (6lbs)
Michigan's Ultimate Blend

$25
COPY TODAY (6lbs) $35

Wildlife Cover and
Send Check or Money Order
No Hunting
Forage Blend (6lbs) $50
Made Out to:
Shipping and handling – $11.00 first bag $7.00
License
Book $25 “DEER ATTRACTION” Lower Peninsula Michigan each additional bag
then mail to:
Required!
Shipping and handling – $12.00 first bag $8.00
DVD $20 Upper Peninsula and the each additional bag
Includes Deer Attraction rest of the Continental US
4986 Winewood Lane TOTAL
REMIT BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER
Commerce, MI 48382 MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO:
Ed Spinazzola • 24150 31 Mile Road, Ray Twp, MI 48096 Michigan Association of
Check the Following: Book @ $25 each DVD @ $20 each WEBSITE: deerattraction.com
Name Name
Gamebird Breeders & Hunting Preserves
Address Address
For information & listing of our preserves near you go to:
City
Phone #
State Zip City
Phone #
State Zip
www.michiganhuntingpreserves.com
$3.6 million to help
battle invasive species
Several promising new developments to fight
invasive pests on land and in water...
T
he Michigan depart- the invasive alga will reduce its
ments of Environmen- spread.
tal Quality, Natural • Increasing retailer adoption
Resources, and and consumer awareness of the
Agriculture and Rural Reducing Invasive Pet and Plant Es-
Development an- capes (RIPPLE) campaign through- Didymo (also known as “rock snot”), first documented in the St.
nounced that more than two dozen out the state. Marys River in 2015, is spreading and could be affecting fish habi-
projects will share $3.6 million in Descriptions and photos of the tat in the area. MDNR photo
Michigan Invasive Species Grant referenced terrestrial and aquatic
Program funding. invasive species (and many others) invasive species. These CISMAs $9 million in funding. Thirty-seven
The full list of grant recipients, are available on the Michigan Inva- provide service to all 83 counties applicants responded to the full
project descriptions and award sive Species website under Species throughout the state. Proposed out- proposal invitation, requesting $5.4
amounts is available on the Michi- Profiles and Reporting Information. comes of CISMA projects receiving million in grants. Applicants were
gan Invasive Species Grant Program Grant program background and funding this year include: asked to commit to providing at
website. progress • Surveying 11,000 acres of land least 10 percent of the total project
Since its start, the program has In 2014 Gov. Rick Snyder and and water. cost in the form of a local match.
targeted four key objectives: the state Legislature designated $5 • Treating at least 3,000 acres to Learn more about invasive
• Preventing new introductions million in annual funding to ad- eliminate invasive species. species – including control efforts,
of invasive species through outreach dress invasive species. This support • Directly reaching more than species identification and educa-
and education. substantially enhanced Michigan’s 20,000 residents and visitors tion and outreach opportunities – at
• Monitoring for new invasive Invasive Species Program for through workshops, site visits and michigan.gov/invasivespecies.
species and the expansion of exist- aquatic organisms, supported a for- education programs. Michigan’s Invasive Species
ing invasive species. mal program for terrestrial species, More than $9 million sought Program is cooperatively imple-
• Responding to and conducting and initiated the Michigan Invasive • In response to a May 2018 mented by the Michigan depart-
eradication efforts for new findings Species Grant Program. request for grant pre-proposals, 63 ments of Agriculture & Rural Devel-
and range expansions. This cycle marks the fifth year applications were received in June, opment, Environmental Quality and
• Strategically managing and of program funding. To date, $18.5 seeking a total of approximately Natural Resources.n
controlling key colonized species. million has been awarded to sup-
This year’s grant awards pro- port 109 projects undertaken by
vide funding for several projects units of government, nonprofits and
involving promising new methods institutions. Because of Michigan’s
of reducing the effects of terrestrial Invasive Species Grant Program:
(land-based) invasive species: • More than 285,000 acres of
• Using new techniques to land and water have been surveyed
increase development of beech trees for invasive species.
that are resistant to beech bark dis- • Over 18,000 acres have been
ease. These trees will be planted in treated for invasive terrestrial and
the Upper and Lower peninsulas. aquatic plants.
• Grafting selected ash trees that • 147,000 people have been
have survived the emerald ash borer reached with invasive species edu-
and testing them for resistance, with cation and promotion through direct
the goal of developing stock that contact, including face-to-face inter- predator hunnting doesn’t need to end once the sun
could be used for restoration plant- actions at boat washes, workshops,
ings. trainings and other events. goes down. with our exclusive nightsnipe hunting
• Testing a newly approved • An additional 10,042,072 peo- lights you can safely and effectively target
biological control, Hypena opulenta ple were reached through grantees’ coyotes, foxes, bobcats, raccoons, wild hogs and
– a moth from the Ukraine whose “passive impression” efforts in areas other predators at night.
larvae primarily feed on invasive including mail, newspapers, social
black and pale swallow-wort vines –
to determine its ability to establish,
media and handouts.
“It’s clear that Michigan’s Expertise and sales in all Hunting
Invasive Species Grant Program is
reproduce and help control these
vines in Michigan.
Some of the grant dollars also
accomplishing many of the goals
set for the program at the very
Lighting, Thermal / Night Vision scopes
will support a range of efforts to
prevent and manage aquatic (water-
start,” said DNR Director Keith
Creagh. “The fight to stop, contain
and handheld scanning devices.
based) invaders:
• Understanding the effects of
and eradicate invasive species from
Michigan’s woods and water is criti- Contact us today! • 1(855) 766-4364
European frogbit on Great Lakes cal to the long-term protection of www.predatorhunteroutdoors.com
coastal wetlands and gauging the these valuable natural resources, and
success of hand-harvesting as a this grant program is helping in that
www.predatorthermaloptics.com
management tool. fight.” Paul@predatorhunteroutdoors.com
• Determining if the presence of Support in every Michigan county
didymo (also known as “rock snot”)
in the Upper Peninsula’s St. Marys
This year’s grants also will sup-
port 21 regional Cooperative Inva-
Preadtor Hunter Outdoors
River affects spawning locations or sive Species Management Areas, the 166 S. Lake Pleasant Rd
success for salmon, trout and white- network of partnership organizations
fish, and if scraping and removing that work to manage and control Attica, MI 48412

TROPHY PAGE
Keeping it Alleysha
traditional; Gee took
Ralph her first
Kotecki Sr., buck on
72, of the second
Fruitport day of gun
took this season
nice 10- hunting
pt. Nov. 1 Atrium
hunting Co. This
state land 6-pt. beast
in Mecosta weighed
Co. with 200
climber pounds
tree stand with an
and 18 ½ inch
recurve inside Mike Lecklider took this monster
bow. spread. 8-pt. Dec. 8 in Huron County
Mark
Jahn of
Jeddo
took
this 6-pt.
north-
west of
Escana-
ba on
Father/Son success on the family farm in Nov.16.
Montcalm County; Brad Wilson of Livonia
took a pair of bucks; a 9-pt. on Nov. 15
and an 8-pt. on Nov. 16. Richard Wilson
of Northville took his 8-pt. with a cross- Kriss Hahn of Midland took this
bow on Nov. 3. 8-pt. on Nov. 27.
Conner Garett
Dove, 11, Hyde,
of Avoca hunt-
took this
Tate
Gerald ing with
nice 7-pt. Caverly his dad
Dove Mike,
during
Jr. from took
the took
Avoca this 8-pt. his first
youth
hunt took opening deer, a
with one this nice day of 6-pt.,
8-point using a
shot from firearm .44 mag
a Rem- buck on during
ington Nov. 18 season.
the
870 youth Matt Perkowski of
12 hunt. Clay took this buck
gauge. with his bow.
Niko
Voutsaras
took this
8-pt. in
Eaton
County at
Brother/Sister Successful Bear Hunts: Victoria
221 yards and Christopher Kavanaugh each took black
using bears this fall thanks to the help of their Grand-
his .450 parents who made sure their blinds were set up
Trevor Franks, 13, of perfectly and they picked them up every day af-
Seven-year-old twin Eldridge brothers of Bushmas- ter school in Petoskey to take them out hunting.
Paw Paw took this
Mt. Pleasant took a pair of bucks; (left) ter. Victoria, 13, took her 260 lb. bear during the first
6-pt. hunting VanBu- season. Brother Christopher, 14, took his bear,
Jaxson a 6-pt. and Jaydon an 8-pt. ren Co. Nov. 15. 175 lb. with a bow during the second season.

TROPHY PAGE
Rick Casey of Paw Paw had this

Trace Stolecki, 8, is now dandy buck on trail cam photos in
hooked for life on hunt- velvet and on Nov. 15 he took the
Andy Clouse took this nice ing after taking his first 140 inch, 10-pt. buck.
8-point hunting during the Nate Nielsen of Brigh- deer, this nice 7-pt. in
Macomb Co. Oct. 19
archery season Nov. 9 near ton took this tall tined with the help of his dad,
Decker in the Thumb area. 8-point. uncle, papa and cousin.
Noah James
Kuenker, Shevock,
14, took 13, of
this nice Cedar
7-pt. Spring
hunting took his
Nov. 15 biggest
with his buck Anthony Jekielek with his first career
ever this bow buck, a 9-pt. taken Nov. 11 and
grand- on Nov. 17 he took this wide 8-pt.
pa. year.
with rifle in Alcona Co. First time tak-
Brynn Anderson, Amanda ing two mature bucks. Management
12 of Grand Ledge Mortensen, 16, took paying off on his private land and is
took her first buck her first buck, a 6-pt.
hunting Eaton Co. in Montcalm Co. blessed and thankful for opportunity.
Matt
Eichorn Emily
took Jonathon Lantzer,
this 7-pt. Kepich took 14, took
hunting a spike
this nice horn, 5
opening 8-pt. buck minutes
day of on Nov. 24 later
firearm in Mason took a
season in County. doe with
Gratiot a cross-
County. bow.
Keith
Apple-
bee, 72,
took
his first
turkey
with a
cross-
bow.
And it’s
a rare Parker Mitchell
Elena Williams caught and smoky
released this 38” tiger muskie Paige Moyle of Alma gray! took this nice look-
while fishing Anchor Bay John Koresky, caught this caught this huge salmon ing 8-pt. hunting
with boyfriend Joe Raska, giant 50-inch muskie on in the bay of Sheboygan,
the best guide ever. Wisconsin.
Isabella County.
beautiful Lake St. Clair.
The U.P. fight against CWD continues
W
By John Pepin - MDNR
hen a 4-year-old doe was con-
firmed positive for chronic wast-
ing disease in Dickinson County
in October, it was the first time and best management practices. Not long after those
this deadly disease affecting por- discussions, which were taped and provided on the
tions of Michigan’s white-tailed webpage, the Michigan Natural Resources Commis-
deer herd had been found in the Upper Peninsula. sion and the DNR announced the creation of a nine-
For many, including hunting groups and govern- member CWD Working Group.
ment officials, who had been involved in cooperative “This group was charged with developing recom-
efforts over the past few years to inform the public mendations on additional actions to take to sub-
and prepare hunters for CWD’s potential arrival, this stantially mitigate CWD in Michigan,” Mason said.
eventual detection was anticipated. “They reported their initial findings in January.”
However, for many others, news of the presence For the next six months, the NRC and DNR took
of the disease was unexpected and shocking. to the road to solicit information from hunters and
“This was no longer obscure and distant, some- others on deer regulations and management of CWD
thing affecting only parts of the state below the in Michigan.
Mackinac Bridge,” said Terry Minzey, Michigan De- “We collected feedback at 11 public engagement
partment of Natural Resources U.P. regional wildlife meetings held in cities across the state,” said Sara
coordinator. “This was now here in their backyard.” Thompson, a DNR wildlife biologist and CWD logis-
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal nervous system tics coordinator. “We also gathered comments from
disease found in animals from the family Cervidae, the public through an online survey and comment
including deer, moose and elk. The disease attacks periods at NRC meetings and other venues.”
the brain of infected animals, creating small lesions, Having collected and considered this public input,
which result in neurologic symptoms. The disease is gathered scientific data and evaluated the CWD
always fatal in animals that contract it. management approaches of other states, the DNR
The announcement had come five weeks before presented a series of recommendations to the NRC
the Nov. 15 opening day of the firearm deer huntin June. In August, the NRC approved several deer Laboratory – a pace set to break last fiscal year’s total
ing season, followed by an initial flood of questions hunting regulations aimed at slowing the spread of of 19,818.
from hunters, farmers, meat processors and others. chronic wasting disease. To efficiently handle high-volume CWD testing
Many people wanted to know whether the DNR had Two months later, when the deer confirmed with without impacting turnaround time of other tests,
checked to see what other states had done to confront CWD was discovered in Waucedah Township in the veterinary disease lab created a dedicated CWD
CWD. In fact, Michigan is recognized as a leader in Dickinson County, the DNR took several immediate testing area this hunting season and trained additional
battling the disease. steps to get a CWD response plan on the ground and personnel to increase testing capacity. The laboratory
“While chronic wasting disease might be new to moving. began planning for the 2018 hunting season several
some people, it’s by no means new to the DNR,” said “The first thing we needed to do was to get a lot months in advance, due to the anticipated increase in
Russ Mason, DNR Wildlife Division chief. “Since more deer heads to test to find out how far the disease surveillance and submissions from hunters.
2015, when the first free-ranging deer was found with may have spread,” Minzey said. “To do this we set up “Our partnership with the Michigan Department
CWD in Ingham County, we’ve been taking action two concentric surveillance areas centered around the of Natural Resources, especially our close relation-
based on our surveillance and response plans devel- site of the infected deer.” ship and proximity to the Wildlife Disease Labora-
oped in 2012.” A roughly 10-mile-radius core surveillance area tory co-located in our building, has been essential
In the U.P., DNR wildlife biologists had been – encompassing 661 square miles – was created. to providing the support needed for the DNR’s
conducting disease testing in Michigan counties bor- Outside the core CWD surveillance area, the DNR surveillance efforts,” said Rachel Reams, lab direc-
dering Wisconsin, testing the heads of deer collected created a 75-mile-radius expanded surveillance area. tor. “Regular updates from them helped us to plan,
from roadsides, found dead or shot on farms through The DNR set goals to test 600 deer heads for purchase adequate supplies and arrange for staffing to
deer damage shooting permits. CWD from the core surveillance area and 300 more handle the number of samples this year. Even on the
“It was part of this testing surveillance effort from the wider area. busiest days, when our technicians were processing
we had been working on for about three years that Landowners located within 2 miles of the infected up to 1,200 samples, they felt equipped to handle the
led to the infected doe being discovered,” said Craig doe (index case) were offered free disease control volume and turnaround time.”
Albright, the DNR Wildlife Division’s U.P. field permits to shoot deer on their properties. Private land No new regulation changes were imposed for
operations manager. “There have also been publicity antlerless deer licenses were also available in select the 2018 hunting seasons in the U.P., following the
and information efforts, including billboards erected, deer management units. October CWD detection. A decision on supplemental
television programs and radio spots produced, and “We urged hunters to test their deer voluntarily,” feeding of deer for this winter was postponed pending
fliers and other materials developed.” Albright said. “We needed to get a statistically viable results of the surveillance effort.
A U.P. CWD Task Force created roughly three sample large enough to help us reliably predict our “In the weeks ahead, we will be looking at the
years ago by Michigan Natural Resources Commis- conclusions about how far the disease has spread.” path forward to determine whether any emergency
sioner J.R. Richardson of Ontonagon was convened The DNR increased hours at check stations within measures are necessary that would produce changes
to help hunting groups, lawmakers and others under- the surveillance areas and constructed several drop to hunting or feeding regulations for the U.P.,” Pontz
stand CWD, its effects on deer and measures – such boxes for after-hours deer head submissions. said. “We are currently in the second year of a three-
as mandatory deer testing or restricting of baiting and “The response from hunters was tremendous,” year cycle for deer hunting regulations. We wouldn’t
feeding – that might potentially be ordered should Mason said. “We were able to meet and surpass our regularly consider changing anything until after three
CWD arrive in the region. surveillance goals.” years.”
The task force drafted recommendations to the As of Dec. 7, lab staffers have tested 758 deer Whatever is eventually decided, those decisions
DNR and NRC, suggesting measures taken in the from the core surveillance area and 675 from the will be made with the latest science, the informed
U.P. should vary from those implemented in Lower expanded surveillance area, with no additional CWD- recommendations of DNR wildlife biologists and the
Michigan, based on a variety of differences in geo- suspected positive deer found. continued valuable input of hunters, the U.P. CWD
graphic and deer-herd dynamics. “Numerically, we reached our goals, but geo- Task Force and the general public.
“The task force delegates also serve as messen- graphically, we have some gaps we need to fill to gain “We’ve all worked together as a successful team
gers to their members and constituencies,” said NRC a better understanding of the situation,” Minzey said. thus far,” Mason said. “The best way forward is to
Chairwoman Vicki Pontz. “Their getting out ahead of Disease lab personnel produced a monumental ef- maintain that cooperation to help keep Michigan rec-
everything was very helpful. Their proactive involve- fort to process thousands of deer throughout the year. ognized among the country’s leading states in battling
ment has been extremely important.” At the DNR’s Wildlife Disease Laboratory, per- this disease.”
A webpage containing multiple tools for CWD sonnel have tested nearly 22,000 deer for CWD this Learn the answers to some frequently asked ques-
education was created at michigan.gov/cwd. year. tions about chronic wasting disease. Visit the CWD
In the fall of 2017, a CWD symposium was held Meanwhile, since July, just over 16,000 deer webpage for the latest updates, video lectures from
in Lansing, bringing experts together from around the from across the state have been tested for CWD at the symposium, surveillance area maps, the CWD
world to talk about the latest science on the disease the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic response plan and more at michigan.gov/cwd.n
MICHIGAN'S
NUMBER 1
OUTDOOR
RADIO SHOW !!!
Be sure to listen to Mike
Avery’s Outdoor Magazine
on one of the following
radio stations each week! Air Time
Frequency SA (9 AM)
City 102.3 FM SA (5 AM) Mike Avery’s
Station HOUGHTON
WHKB
95.3 FM SA (5 AM) Outdoor
BATTLE CREEK 1260 AM SA (7 AM)
WBCK HOLLAND 1090 AM SA (7:30 AM)
Magazine
WPNW MUSKEGON 1490 AM has a
WKBZ SA (7 AM)
ADRIAN 1460 AM
WABJ BIG RAPIDS 1240 AM
SA (6 AM) tradition
SA (5 AM)
WBRN ISHPEMING 96.5 FM SA (6 AM) of keeping
WIAN HOLLAND
WPNW
1320 AM SU (6 AM) his listeners
MARQUETTE 98.5 FM SA (7 AM)
WDMJ HOUGHTON LA
KE
1380 AM SA (7 AM)
and viewers
WUPS PO RT HU RO N
1400 AM informed
WPHM AR IE SA (6 AM)
UL T ST . M 1450 AM
WKNW
SA
IRON MOUN TA IN
790 AM
SU (9 AM) and
SU (7 AM)
WMIQ SAGIN AW
1450 AM SU (5 AM) entertained.
WSGW ALPENA
WATZ LANSING
1320 AM SA (7 AM) Don’t miss
1480 AM SA (7 AM)
WILS TAWAS 94.9 FM SU (9 AM)
any
WIOS ST. JOE 1450 AM of his
WSJM SA (9 AM)
NEWBERRY 100.5 FM M-W-F (12 PM)
WNBY SAGINAW 1360 AM
programs.
WSGW FM SA (7 AM)
CARO 98.7 FM SU (9 AM) Outdoor
WKYO LU INGTON
WLDN
D

580 AM SU (1 PM) Magazine
TRAVERSE CITY 1570 AM SA (5AM)
W TCM

FLINT 1600 AM SU (7PM)
is brought
WWCK ANN ARBOR 1340 AM to you by
WAAM S SA (5AM)
GRAND RAPID 1600AM
WJRW An n Arbo r
1340AM
SU (7PM) these fine
WAAM Grand Rapids companies.
do ors.com
Aver yOut
WJRW
w.M ike
ww
Check us out on Facebook:

facebook.com/OutdoorMagazine
SCAN FOR RADIO APP
Woods-N-Water News
Hot Topic...My Thoughts...My Views...My Opinions
Trotter MUCC’s new executive director

Dan Eichinger appointed to Director of MDNR...
I
n late December, Michigan because of Trotter’s institutional our natural resources and protect our
United Conservation Clubs knowledge and policy background outdoor heritage.”
Executive Board named with the organization. Trotter started with MUCC in
MUCC Deputy Director “Amy has dedicated most of her 2007 as a resource policy specialist,
Amy Trotter the next execu- professional career to conservation then policy manager and has served
tive director of the orga- and Michigan United Conservation as deputy director since 2015. Prior
nization. Dan Eichinger submitted Clubs,” Lindquist said. “The board to joining MUCC, Trotter was a
his resignation and was appointed is confident Amy will continue to consultant for natural resources at
as the new director of the Michigan build on the foundation Eichinger Public Sector Consultants, a non-
Department of Natural Resources built and help to make MUCC a partisan public policy research firm
by Governor-elect Gretchen Whit- 21st-century conservation leader.” in Lansing.
mer, effective January 1. He served Trotter said it is always hard Trotter earned a Bachelor
as MUCC executive director since to lose someone as passionate as of Science from Michigan State
2014. Eichinger, but she looks forward to University in Lyman Briggs School-
“We are honored to have one working with him in his new posi- Environmental Science and Man- Amy Trotter, the next executive
of our own be selected to such a tion to help promote and enhance agement and an additional Bachelor director of MUCC.
prestigious position like DNR direc- MUCC’s position regionally and of Science in Resource Develop-
tor,” said MUCC President George nationally. ment-Environmental Studies and her family in the outdoors, includ-
Lindquist. “Dan’s passion for policy “I look forward to leading the Applications. She also completed ing camping, waterfowl hunting
and conservation is something we organization I have been dedicated the Natural Resources Leadership and is dabbling in native plants and
are sure he will carry to his new ap- to for the last 11 years,” Trotter Project and the Michigan Society of perennial gardening. She is also a
pointment, and we look forward to said. “Dan and I have known each Association Executives’ Academy of longtime member and volunteer for
working closely with him in his new other for at least a decade, and we Association Management. Ducks Unlimited.
post.” are both committed to ensuring that Trotter is from Cheboygan, Since 1937, MUCC has been
Lindquist said the transition the agency and conservation and Michigan and resides in Haslett with committed to protecting the rights
from Eichinger to Trotter as ex- hunting, fishing and trapping groups her husband Marc and two daugh- of hunters, angler and trappers in
ecutive director will run smoothly are working together to conserve ters. She enjoys spending time with Michigan.n
The Michigan Pheasant Hunting Initiative

O
yearly.
Guest Column By Carl Griffin
ne small group of
sportsman has suc- Ken is also working with the
cessfully worked state legislature on a plan for a
with our state pheasants as he did when he was convince state representatives and Michigan Pheasant Stamp. His vi-
government and a boy. This led to his forming the senators that his ideas made sense. sion is a program in Michigan that
the Michigan DNR Michigan Pheasant Hunting Initia- Working with MUCC, wording was is like Pennsylvania’s where 50,000
to put in place a change that could tive (MPHI) with a goal of estab- drafted that found its way to the state pheasant hunters buy a $26 stamp
ultimately greatly increase hunting lishing a state sponsored pheasant legislature where, as part of an ap- for the right to hunt 220,000 pheas-
opportunities for small game hunt- release program so that experienced propriations bill, it passed both hous- ants that are released on 90 state
ers in our state. Our story starts or beginning small game hunters of es. When Governor Snyder signed game areas every year! The benefits
with one man named Ken Dalton, average means could successfully SB 601 it contained $260,000 for a will be tremendous and include more
a retired GM auto worker living in bag pheasants on state land in South- two year pilot to release pheasants new hunters, older hunters going out
Attica, Michigan. ern Michigan. on public land for Michigan hunters again, increased business for sup-
A lifelong hunter, Ken saw the Ken reasoned if 20 other states to pursue. pliers and more money staying in
number of ring neck pheasants from Washington to Rhode Island, These special hunts could start Michigan. The list can go on and on.
steadily decline from the 1970s including California, released pheas- as early as 2019 but there is more to The lesson we should take away
until now. With that he saw that the ants for their hunters Michigan the story. When the pilot program from the MPHI success story is that
number of people hunting pheasants could as well. Making this a reality proves to be successful it can grow we, as hunters, can control our own
on public lands drop as well. Michi- became Ken Dalton’s mission. He to include more pheasants planted destiny when we work together
gan pheasant hunters were going to started a grass roots movement of on additional state game areas. This toward a goal and never give up. Our
other states when they could not find hunters who agreed with him and will require additional funding and state legislature, the DNR and the
enough birds here, even on private went on to get the endorsement of Ken is already working on getting it. NRC are not isolated unapproach-
land. many local sportsmen’s organiza- In 2017 the Unites States Fish able bodies that we have no control
Many groups including Pheas- tions and the Michigan United Con- and Wildlife Service authorized over. Ken Dalton proved that. Be it
ants Forever had programs to create servation Clubs (MUCC). using Pittman-Robertson money wolf hunts, dove hunts or sand hill
or improve pheasant habitat and Ken faced many obstacles and for the stocking of pen raised game crane hunts, longer seasons, shorter
though these efforts were somewhat was told countless times that he birds as long as doing that enhances seasons, or antler point restrictions,
successful the downward trend for would never succeed but with the hunter recruitment, retention or if an idea is sound and has enough
pheasant hunters seemed to con- help of individual members from reactivation (3-Rs). It is classed as support it can become a reality.
tinue. To counteract this Ken de- organizations like Pheasants Forever, Basic and Enhanced Hunter Educa- For more info on The Michigan
cided to do something. He could not The Michigan Hunting Dog Federa- tion funding and Michigan currently Pheasant Hunting Initiative go to
stand the thought of young people tion, and Safari Club International receives around $4 million of these www,mphi.info or call Ken Dalton
today not being able to chase rooster he forged on. He worked hard to dollars from the federal government the Pheasident at 810-358-9373.n
My Thoughts...My Views...My Opinions...My Humor
Price to stop Asian Carp goes up again

T
he “new” anti-Asian Corp’s structure was going to work? predators that would in turn prey you. Once the public takes on a T-
carp plan is now up to I think I’d rather bet on the Lion’s on Asian carp and other unwanted Rex mentality with these fish they’ll
$778 million. Three making a Super Bowl than bet on guests. The only fish that consistent- be gone…forever, and that’s another
times the original us stopping the Asian Carp. Illegal ly dines on the alewife is the salmon, thing we’ve proven throughout his-
estimate given by the immigrants might not make it over which is also an invasive species tory. We can’t stop anything unless
Army Corps of En- Trump’s wall, but I’m waging a bet since it’s not native. Stop planting we eat them. And it’s FREE… All
gineers less than a year ago. Quote that the Asian carp would as they salmon and the alewife population FREE… If people weren’t eating
me: we’ll stop the Asian carp from have already crossed land barriers to will explode, further destroying them, then how can the commercial
entering the Great Lakes region with unconnected waterways. perch, walleye and other native fishing companies afford to pay $26
the same efficiency as the Wolverine What is more likely to happen to predator populations. It’s a vicious an hour for entry-level jobs?
defense stopping a Gator touchdown the average Michigan citizen? They never-ending unwinnable cycle. Hmmmm, how ironic, we bail
drive. We’ll score on these jump- hit a monster pot hole and do dam- The solution to the Asian carp out the auto industry and they thank
ing gems like the Spartan offence age to their vehicle or to themselves problem isn’t exploding bubbles, us by moving to China, while the
against a Duck defense. or others, or… they get smacked in fast currents, electricity, chemicals Chinese fish move here. The Chinese
By the way, if you’re not a the face by a flying Asian carp? or face recognition harvests. The have to import them back to their
football fan, neither of those two Every year I like to ask the ques- solution is to get rid of the alewives, country because their waters are so
things is very good. Actu- tion at least once. Every something we’ve been unable to do polluted they couldn’t survive there
ally, they’re really bad, aw- year I never get an answer. since their arrival in the 1950s. No any longer. They took our jobs now
ful in fact. But hey, we’re Since the 1800s when alewives could mean no salmon, but depend on us so they don’t starve.
not talking about a measly invasive species began to our predator base would rebound Nobody sees a bargaining tool here?
$30-million that the Univer- infiltrate the Great Lakes, and become the best defense against We are supposed to trust that
sity of Michigan has paid how many of the 180 have the Asian carp and many other prob- our leadership is going make sound,
Harbaugh to go 2-6 against we actually stopped? lem causing invasive species. educated decisions with our money
the power schools and 1-3 My answer is 0. Or, change the Asian carp’s based on ours and the environ-
in bowl games. I guess Am I wrong? name…I’ve been screaming about ment’s best interest. While science
for $778 million someone I don’t understand then this for 10 years. Call them the is still producing conflictive studies
thinks we can finally defeat why we continue to waste St.Germain Silverfin for all I care, as to whether the Asian Carp could
Mother Nature. money that could go to just take carp out of it. Educate the survive the cold waters of the Great
It’s estimat-
ed that it would By Ron St. Germain better use on
trying to stop
public on the edibility and nutrition-
al value of the Asian carp, because in
Lakes, I can tell them with convic-
tion that they won’t survive a hot
take about 3.3 something that no way do they mimic the common grill, fork and butter.
billion to fix our roads. Add to that history has already proven is out of carp that has given the word carp a Funny fish stories wanted:
deteriorating bridges, underfunded our control. bad name at the dinner table. Most Strangest thing
schools, tainted drinking water, I’m not a financial wizard. In people at this point are not going to you’ve ever caught...
tainted fish and wildlife, a growing fact, I struggle to do my taxes. I still put anything called a carp in their Send a short description of your
list of displaced workers and de- stupidly pay for 270 channels when mouth. Then, charge McDonald’s “best or worst” fishing day, or worst
prived senior citizens and here we sit I only actually watch about 10 of to come harvest them for their Mc fishing-related adventure, or strang-
worried about a single fish and about them. The good news for you is that St. Germain Silverfin or Filet O’ est thing you’ve caught to me. You
to spend upwards of a billion dollars I’m not in charge of our state budget. flying fish sandwiches. Start charg- don’t have to write the entire story,
to stop it. But when I see us giving away mil- ing Nestle a fair price for harvest- just a brief outline of what hap-
Recently the Governor gave lions of gallons of water to Nestle ing our water. Then take that $778 pened. If it has some humor to it
away $500,000 to three idealists for $200 during a time our Flint resi- million and spend $55 million of it I’ll be getting in touch with you and
who presented ideas to stop the dents were begging for clean water; to fix Flint’s water crisis and spend we’ll work on the completed story
Asian carp. The problem is, nobody when we’re going to spend millions the remaining millions on schools, together.
has a clue if these ideas will actually to keep probably the only safe eat- law enforcement, homeless vets, our Contact - Woods-n-Water News col-
work. These ideas consisted of ones ing fish in decades out of the Great strapped retirees, roads, bridges and umnist Ron St. Germain by calling
such as using deadly, harmful chemi- Lakes; when we can give away whatever suitable issue we face. I’m (517) 626-2814, e-mailing DaPho-
cals that will kill “all” fish, including $500,000 to ideas that are unproven sorry, but if I’m in charge, I’m tell-
toDude@aol.com. Visit the author’s
the protected ones in a lock chamber. and most likely won’t even be used; ing people how edible they are and
Facebook page www.Facebook.com/
How about propelled high even my simple little non-numbers then I’m turning the public loose on BearwaveBooks.n
velocity exploding bubbles, strong mind see’s a huge problem. these things and they’ll be gone in
currents and my personal favorite, Especially when the cost effec- no time… FOR FREE!!!
a face recognition sorter. Like the
Asian carp won’t soon realize that if
tive answer is to allow the Great
Lakes a chance to reestablish a sig-
In Nestle’s defense, I will state
that they have donated over 6-mil- My Thoughts,
they swim directly beside a common
carp, bass, or walleye they can get
nificant natural predator base, which
costs next to nothing. But, while
lion bottles of water to Flint since
2015 and are on board for more My Views, My Opinions
past the monster collection device we continue to manage the lakes donations this year. However, this
and sneak into Lake Michigan. They for other preferred invasive species, agreement didn’t come without a lot Share your thoughts, views, opinions or short
won’t figure out that if they swim specifically salmon, it hampers the of negative public pressure, and I’d stories with Woods-N-Water News readers by
real fast before the face recognition chances of ever establishing a native still charge them more than $200 a
detects them, or even faster so the predator base that would attack the year.
emailing: wnw@pageone-inc.com or mail to:
sorter can’t catch them that they can invasive carp as well as gobies and Think about this…you’re hiking Woods-N-Water News,
squirt through? other unwanted invasives. down a trail that leads to food and PO Box 278, Imlay City, MI 48444
I’m not even convinced the What we have is an impos- you’re hungry. Along the path you
Army Corp’s overpriced lock sible strategic issue that stems from encounter exploding bubbles, strong Questions regarding Woods-N-Water News sub-
system is actually going to work. the sole fact that “we” cannot stop winds, lightning strikes, a face scriptions, newsstand sales, Outdoor Weekend,
Fish did get through their last idea. a single invasive species, not for recognition harvest machine and a T-
Why would the Governor’s office $100 and not for $778 million. The Rex dinosaur. Which of these things
stories, trophy page, contact our office
throw away $500,000 and conduct invasive alewife has greatly contrib- are more likely to stop you from Mon.-Fri. 9 am-5 pm 810-724-0254
a contest of unproven ideas if they uted to the decimation of our native finishing your hike? That’s right, the www.woods-n-waternews.com
were 100 percent on board that the predators. Alewives prey on native T-Rex, because the T-Rex will eat
Hot Topic in the Outdoors
Mackinac Straits Corridor Authority approves agreement to

build multi-use tunnel, remove pipelines from bottom of Straits
T
he Mackinac Straits Cor- against an oil spill through a solution • Ensure the state bears no cost a significant population in southeast
ridor Authority (MSCA) we know will work,” said Snyder. for design, construction, operation Michigan.
approved an agreement “Today’s actions will result in and maintenance of the tunnel. • Instituting accelerated risk-
with Enbridge Energy the removal of the oil pipeline from • Ensure that any privately reducing measures at 13 priority
Limited Partnership to the bottom of the Straits of Macki- owned portion of the project – in- Line 5 water crossings, in addition to
build a multi-use utility tunnel nac, maintain critical infrastructure cluding the above-ground entrances requiring actions at 68 other cross-
beneath the Straits of Mackinac. connections between our peninsulas, and any utility lines within the tun- ings as identified with state input in
The tunnel will house a replacement provide energy security for residents nel – is subject to taxation. a previous Enbridge report.
segment for the Line 5 pipeline that of the Upper Peninsula and northern • Reimburse the Mackinac • Assuring the Straits pipeline
sits on the bottom of the Straits and Michigan and create good-paying Bridge Authority for any net loss of is not operating when high waves
other utilities. jobs,” he said. “Enbridge will pay profit for leasing space for telecom- would severely hamper response to
In addition, the authority, which 100 percent of the costs for design, munication lines. a potential oil spill. Enbridge staff
held its inaugural meeting in St. construction, operation and main- The Tunnel Agreement contains must be present at the Straits to shut
Ignace, approved the transfer of a tenance of the tunnel, and will shut milestones for construction progress down the line within 15 minutes –
property right that will allow En- down the current Line 5 segment in as well as financial penalties for even if power is lost – when wave
bridge to construct the tunnel in the Straits once the tunnel is com- Enbridge for missed deadlines, pro- heights hit 6.5 feet for at least an
bedrock beneath the Straits. plete.” vided delays are within Enbridge’s hour. The state will provide a new
Also Gov. Rick Snyder and lead- Public Act 359 required the control. Once the tunnel is complete, radar system to supply better, real-
ers of the departments of Natural MSCA to enter into an agreement to ownership will be turned over to the time wave-height data at the Straits.
Resources and Environmental Qual- build a tunnel, provided the agree- MSCA, which will be able to lease • Assuring that at least $1.8
ity signed a separate agreement with ment met certain criteria. In keeping space within the tunnel to additional billion in financial assurance be
Enbridge. This Third Agreement car- with those criteria, the agreement ap- utilities. provided by Enbridge to respond to
ries forward provisions of two previ- proved by the authority will: The increased stewardship a potential oil spill in the Straits or
ous agreements with the company • Include a plan for recruiting, mandated in the Third Agreement anywhere along Line 5 in Michigan.
– one in November 2017 and one in training and using Michigan workers between the state and Enbridge will • Paying for cameras to be
October 2018. The Third Agreement for the tunnel project. apply unless there is a delay beyond installed at the Straits to support
requires Enbridge to undertake an • Allow for multiple utilities to Enbridge’s control as defined in the new regulations from the U.S. Coast
enhanced inspection and steward- use the tunnel. agreement. The Third Agreement Guard prohibiting ships in the area
ship regimen. The agreement also • Provide that the tunnel is built also requires that as soon as possible from dropping their anchors – one
includes interpretations of the 1953 to last and will contain potential oil upon completion of the tunnel and of the most serious threats to Line 5
easement for the dual pipelines on spills in the Straits of Mackinac. construction of the Line 5 replace- and other utility lines on the bottom
the bottom of the Straits, as well as • Limit liability for the state, ment segment, Enbridge will deacti- of the Straits.
ongoing financial assurance require- the authority and members of the vate the dual pipelines in the Straits. • Prohibiting heavy crude oil
ments for the pipelines. authority. Previous agreements charge En- from running through Line 5 and not
The approved agreements will • Require that all necessary gov- bridge with: increasing the volume or type of pe-
soon be posted on the mipetro- ernment approvals be obtained for • Replacing the portion of Line 5 troleum products that move through
leumpipelines.com website. the tunnel. that lies at the bottom of the St. Clair the line.n
• Prohibit the use of eminent
“From the beginning of this four-
year process, our fundamental goal domain to acquire property for the
River near Port Huron with a new
pipe in a tunnel beneath the river to Submitted By
has been to protect the Great Lakes project. protect drinking water supplies for Michigan DNR
Groups encouraged by Governor Whitmer’s

investigation into legality of Line 5 deal
M
ichigan Gov. Gretchen “The National Wildlife Federa- terests of the Great Lakes, Michigan welcome news for anyone who cares
Whitmer requested tion welcomes the announcement businesses, and our drinking water about protecting the Great Lakes
an opinion from new from Governor Whitmer and ahead of a foreign oil company. from Enbridge’s dangerous, high
Attorney General Dana Attorney General Nessel that Fortunately, feasible and cost-ef- risk oil pipelines in the Mackinac
Nessel on the consti- they will be reviewing the fective alternatives exist for the few Straits. Independent legal experts
tutionality of the recent legislation constitutionality of the Snyder/ services Line 5 provides Michi- who have examined this deeply
passed in December’s lame duck Enbridge legislation. The last-min- gan, as outlined in detail by recent flawed and misguided law passed
period and signed by former Gov. ute, lame duck legislation should London Economics International re- by a lame duck legislature believe it
Rick Snyder. The National Wildlife be scrutinized from every angle, ports. This action is a good first step cannot withstand the kind of inde-
Federation applauded the move as as many steps were missed in toward fulfilling Gov. Whitmer and pendent scrutiny that the attorney
the potential first step to fulfilling rushing to finish a backroom Attorney General Nessel’s campaign general’s office is expected to bring
the campaign promise made by both deal that leaves Line 5 open pledges to decommission Line 5.” to its review.n”
Gov. Whitmer and Nessel to shut indefinitely. We now have leaders David Holtz, communications
down Line 5.
Beth Wallace, conservation part-
committed to protecting the
Great Lakes by moving toward
coordinator for Oil & Water Don’t
Mix said: Submitted By
nerships manager for the National decommissioning Line 5 in a rapid “The decision by Gov. Whitmer National Wildlife
Wildlife Federation Great Lakes
Regional Center, issued the follow-
manner. We look forward to work-
ing closely with the Whitmer and
to request that Attorney General
Dana Nessel conduct an indepen-
Federation and
ing statement: Nessel administrations to put the in- dent review of Public Act 395 is Oil & Water Don’t Mix
It’s easier to train
than to retrain
Dog Training...By Len Jenkins
I
t’s always easier to train is satisfying to you and your pup
than to retrain. If you want because you both gain satisfaction
to develop a quality gun with each task learned. Because all
dog, analyze the training complex activities build from the
process and start from the basics, thorough yard training is Star t training from the beginning and build a firm foundation of
beginning and progress crucial to long-term success. behaviors which are reviewed, reinforced and rewarded.
toward the finished product one step
at a time. Sounds easy, right? Heel manded heel. Do this over and over whoa instead will facilitate teaching
Well, it is, provided you really The best way to teach your dog again, praising frequently when the the next lesson.
to heel is to let him learn that the dog properly responds to the com-
start from the beginning and build a
firm foundation of behaviors which collar and lead will not hurt him. If mands heel and whoa. If the dog Whoa
he is a pup, let him wear the collar doesn’t want to stop on whoa, apply Every good pointing dog must
are reviewed, reinforced and re-
and simply drag the lead around for pressure by tightening the spiked whoa on command. This is ini-
warded. The time to begin is when
you first get your dog and teach him a while. Once you’re satisfied that force collar. If he doesn’t want to tially taught in conjunction with
the lead doesn’t distress him, you get moving on heel, give a slight tug heel, but it also has applicability for
as an individual, thereby imprint-
can hold the end and walk your dog on the lead. Just be sure to check the teaching a dog to hold point, back
ing on his mind the notion that his
around, making sure that he enjoys collar, making certain that it loosens another dog, or simply halt when
purpose in life is to nurture and
preserve this acceptance. the experience. up each time the dog complies. told to do so. Once whoa has been
When you start training your Do not jerk harshly on the collar taught while heeling, the handler
After he knows his name and re-
dog to heel, use a conventional because your dog will soon respond should be able to take a few steps
alizes that he belongs to you, begin
leather or nylon collar. Then switch when given slight tugs caused by away from the dog and command
the yard raining in which you focus
to the spiked force collar provided your wrist action. You don’t need to him to “Whoa!” In order to do this
on teaching your dog to heel, whoa
your dog is big and strong enough pull and jerk hard with your whole you must establish eye contact with
and come when called. All the while
to handle this device, a wonderful arm or body unless yours is a gross- your dog and maintain a serious,
you’re doing this, however, you’re
means by which you can keep your ly undisciplined older dog who was no-nonsense, facial expression while
building a relationship with your
dog from lunging ahead, balking never taught to heel. Always apply holding out the flat of your hand in
dog which is based on love, accep-
and reacting to distractions around just enough force—not too much. commanding, authoritative man-
tance and fulfilled expectations.
him. Try to keep your lessons enjoyable ner. If the dog remains stationary on
Each step of the training process
It is customary to heel the dog for both the dog and yourself. whoa, return to him and praise him,
on your left if you’re right handed During this stage it is impor- resuming heel and whoa together
 and on the right if you’re left tant that the dog learn the he must as a way of relieving pressure by
 handed. To get your dog moving
forward, give a slight tug on the
always comply with your orders and
reap the satisfaction of your praise
returning to familiar learning.
If the dog will not stay in place,
4 Birds $85 per gun

lead. You want to make sure that the when he heels and whoas nicely for catch him and briskly put him back
collar stops causing discomfort once you. To obey routinely is vital be- in the original location. If this does
the dog complies. For this reason it’s cause future training sessions will be not work satisfactorily, use the whoa
TOWER SHOOTS important that the collar be properly more complex. Let your dog get into stake, a device which you can push
On Select Weekends!
See Web For Rates and Dates
put on the dog. The collar should the habit of abiding by your orders. into the ground and thread a check-
slide through the end ring in such This is tremendous carry-over value cord through. Take the dog to the
Affordable pheasant hunting on 317 acres of a way that the collar will loosen up in all subsequent lessons. vicinity of the whoa stake and the
switch grass, dwarf-milo sorgrum, and corn.
Traditional Ringneck Pheasants • Extra birds shot are free.
once pressure is relieved. If yours is a flush dog (retriever pull the cord through, commanding
Morning or afternoon hunts. • Bird Cleaning is available. When you start heeling, give or spaniel other than a Brittany) you the dog to “whoa” after you walk
Excellent dogs and guides - $60 per 1/2 day. the command “Heel” to get the dog can have the dog sit when you stop. away. Once again, be authoritative
Brass or Steel shot loads only.
moving forward. Proceed several If you wish to teach the command and establish a serious tone and eye
www.affordablepheasanthunting.com steps this way. When you plan to Hup to a spaniel, you can give this contact.
Walkiewicz Farms stop, command “Whoa,” thereby command in place of whoa or you Once your dog knows that whoa
6115 Chapin Road • Deford, Michigan 48729
reinforcing (through repetition) your can command sit. In no case, how- and halt or stay where you are,
1-989-683-2749 command that the dog stop on whoa
and then resume walking when com-
ever, should you encourage a point-
ing dog to sit at this stage. Teaching
you’re ready to teach come or come
here.n
Premium Wildlife SPORTSMAN AUCTION Hot Shot Outfitters

Habitat Creation Ray Hoody
YOUR PROPERTY IS OUR PRIORITY 
• Food Plots
• Brush Hog Serving SATURDAY
• Trail Creation Lower MARCH 2ND AT 10 AM Goose Hunts
Youth Deer Hunts
• Hinge Cutting Michigan Coldwater, MI Turkey Hunts • Coyote Hunts
• Soil Testing Whitetail Hunts
Selling hundreds of firearms from
• Free Quotes modern to antique and will include
military and foreign weaponry. Also 6900 Huron City
Mention This Ad For $50 OFF selling hunting related items to

include ammunition, knives, scopes,
parts, accessories and collectables.
For more information go to
Port Hope, MI 48468
Mon - Fri: 989-428-5071

www.BelcherAuction.com. Weekends: 989-670-4336
John Wittig 586-255-7676 DeerMeadows4U@gmail.com Internet bidding is available thru www.hotshotoutfitters.com
Proxibid on all firearms.
Be prepared for winter
By Theresa Neal-MDNR
D
ealing with mild winter everyone to the relative safety of the or polypropylene socks are soft, warm to deal with nature’s elements.”
conditions is sometimes more embankment. and lightweight. They don’t bunch up Not all of Michigan’s 103 state
challenging than preparing “Fortunately, this situation has inside boots and will keep feet warm, parks have the steep terrain of the Por-
for a whole lot of cold and a positive ending. Park rangers are even if sweating. Winter boots or cupine Mountains, or the inherent dan-
snow. A trio of visitors to Tahquame- familiar with the terrain and were able waterproof hiking boots are necessary. ger of the Upper Tahquamenon Falls,
non Falls State Park in the eastern to organize the search efficiently by Ice-traction devices can be invaluable but all the parks possess the potential
Upper Peninsula were reminded of this asking the right questions to figure out during mild winters, which are often for serious challenges for visitors who
recently when a hike on a relatively where the men were along the trail,” characterized by icy conditions. arrive unprepared to deal with a variety
mild winter day turned into a hazard- said Tahquamenon Falls State Park • Snow pants or gaiters: Snow pants of changing weather-related conditions.
ous situation. Manager Kevin Dennis. “Without park are great for cold weather, but some Visitors should make sure vehicles
The incident underscores the rangers assisting with the search, these people opt to wear gaiters, which fit are packed for an emergency during
importance of being prepared for the visitors would have been exposed to over boots and cover pants up to the winter adventures. Bring a shovel,
location and the wintertime conditions. the cold even longer, with potentially knee. Gaiters keep snow and water out blankets, a bucket of sand or cat litter
Early winter rain showers had dire consequences.” of boots without the bulkiness of snow for traction, a flashlight, water and
produced a sheet of ice that covered Even mildly cold environments pants. snacks. These items can help drivers
4 inches of snow. This frosty glaze can lead to hypothermia. Symptoms of Beyond dressing properly, tell remove a vehicle from a ditch or snow-
encased park features, including the exposure to cold conditions develop someone where you are going and bank or make the wait for help to arrive
4-mile-long trail between the spectacu- quickly, including shivering, shallow when you plan to return. Leave a note, more tolerable.
lar Upper and Lower Tahquamenon breathing, confusion and loss of coor- a text or a voicemail. “Our park is open year-round, so
Falls. Three young men who attempted dination. “Visitors to the most wintry of people can experience the waterfalls in
the trail hike became stranded along All these concerns can be avoided our Michigan state parks should be the winter,” Dennis said. “We encour-
the banks of the wide, winding river. by wearing proper clothing and layer- prepared for conditions when they age visitors to do their part and come
After sliding down an embankment, ing. Use the following checklist to arrive, even if they only plan to stay a prepared for winter conditions. This
they were unable to get back up. dress before winter activities: few minutes,” said John Pepin, DNR way, they can enjoy their visit, and
Their call to 9-1-1 from the remote • No cotton touching skin: The key deputy public information officer. “A everyone can stay safe.”
location went through. With flashlights is to avoid cotton materials. Cotton will quick walk to a scenic vista could be- The River Trail at Tahquamenon
in hand, park rangers and emergency absorb sweat and water and stay wet, come a serious situation if unexpected Falls State Park is now closed due
personnel soon began their own trek causing a person to become cold. Start circumstances occur, perhaps leaving a to unsafe conditions until further
to try to rescue the men. Sheriff’s with a polyester-blend, or merino wool, person injured or stranded, unprepared notice.n
deputies and EMS workers were there, as a first layer, which will provide heat
TROPHY SPECIALISTS
along with state police troopers and the even when wet.
U.S. Border Patrol. All were risking • Fleece or wool sweater: Follow
that first non-cotton layer up with one
FISHING CHARTERS
their own safety to affect the rescue of
the men. or two layers of insulation, such as a
“The trail was covered in glare fleece or wool sweater.
ice, especially the stairways,” said Eric • Wind/waterproof jacket: The top
Johnson, a park officer who led the layer should be waterproof or water CHARTERS STARTING AT ONLY $400 - GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!
rescue effort. “Despite walking slowly resistant. A rain jacket, that can be
and carefully, we all fell multiple unzipped after warming-up during Captain Mike Veine focuses on Saginaw Bay, which
times. The ice, plus pitch darkness and outdoor activity is ideal.
cold temperatures, made for a treacher- • Hat, gloves or mittens: A hat and many consider to be the Walleye Capital of the World.
ous situation.” gloves are important for any winter
After two hours, the three men were
located, stranded at the bottom of an
activity. Mittens are best for those who
tend to get cold fingers. If a people get
Saginaw Bay Walleye
icy ridge. One man was showing signs warm, they can always take their hat All through spring and
of hypothermia, including confusion and gloves off for a few minutes – they summer our charters produce
and fatigue, and was struggling to may be amazed at how quickly they consistant, world class fish-
move. Emergency personnel formed cool off. ing. Both eaters and lunkers
a human chain to pull the men away • Warm footwear: Footwear should
from the river. They used ropes to get also start with a non-cotton sock. Wool are typically caught on most
charters for the perfect mix.
DETROIT RIVER WALLEYE FISHING

Early Spring yields larger
sized walleyes with some
trout and salmon mixed in for
good measure. Late spring
Experience some of the best and summer produces limit
walleye fishing in the country. catches on most charters
This year’s walleye run is going with more pleasant condi-
to be one of the best in years. tions and some perch, bass
and pike mixed in. We fish
DON'T MISS OUT. both the inner and outer por-
Reserve your date today. tions of the Bay including the
Morning & afternoon trips Charity Islands.
734-475-9146
(5 hours) available.
Up to three people.
313-319-0100 or Greatlakesbassfishing.com www.trophyspecialists.com

Boat insurance
Boat Smart...By Capt. Fred Davis
T
his article may sound like it The question was, “Who would
may be boring BUT I am shar- pay?”
ing information with you that is Boat insurance can be confusing.
very important! Boats may be insured for various cover-
A call came in to my office from a ages - in various ways, with various
boat owner requesting salvage service companies. Boat owners need to take
for a vessel beached in a sandy area. the time to question and understand the
I suggested an on-scene evaluation to insurance they purchase. Boat values Shallow water groundings are unforgiveable. Do you have coverage?
determine equipment needs and action (even small boats) are in the thousands
to take. of dollars. The small print in your boat 3) Wreck removal is interpreted replacement. Often the insured have
Upon my arrival, waves were break- policy needs to be understood. differently and boat owners are unaware no idea what coverage they have until
ing over the stern of a small craft and Many people add insurance for their of their responsibility. In most cases, a claim occurs. Insurance coverage
immediate action would be necessary boat to a homeowner’s policy where it they are held responsible for removal is not an item you should skimp on.
to save the boat from being destroyed. may be called “Yacht” coverage. Doing of a wreck or any debris. Some insur- Pennies saved on a cheap policy could
The owner said he had worked for hours this offers a savings but many home- ance companies pay all cost; others do cost you your boat if you encounter a
with a large group of friends and neigh- owner policies provide very limited not cover wreck removal at all. Some major claim. In addition, you could
bors attempting to recover the boat. I coverage. A few dollars saved on an may pay off a total loss claim on the be left with a big bill to add to your
quoted an hourly rate for labor and insurance policy can seriously jeopar- boat, but leave an owner responsible problems.
equipment to recover and tow his boat dize coverage needed. for removal of the wreck or any further If you own a high priced vessel,
to the nearest ramp area. He responded Below are examples of descriptions liability caused by it. even though it’s only a run-about, it
he had insurance and filled out the work of various boat policy coverages: If a wreck breaks up and its debris would be wise to purchase a standard
order contract. 1) Most policies state “It is the re- floats into the path of another vessel, yacht policy and avoid adding it to
My company removed and towed sponsibility of the owner to immediately liability can be extreme. your homeowners insurance. Boaters
the damaged boat to the nearest harbor. take necessary action to protect their 4) Towing coverage has been added spend a lot of money on a boat, than
I gave the owner his bill and he left, property from further damage.” to most policies (usually to the nearest buy the cheapest insurance they can find
believing all he had to do was send it 2) Some companies refer to harbor). Carefully check your policy thinking (and hoping) they won’t need
to his insurance company. Later, the removal from a hard grounding as tow- because some companies offer no cov- it. They may feel secure because they
owner’s wife called and said they did ing but in some cases, towing could erage especially on small boats. are well schooled on safe boating and
not have coverage. An adjuster advised severely damage a grounded vessel. There are many other variables proper navigation, but the unforeseen
them and their attorney had another Others correctly regard a hard ground- in marine insurance coverage. If you can and does happen. Good insurance
opinion but said the bill had to be paid ing as salvage; to avoid further damage, purchase a full coverage policy, ask provides peace of mind as you enjoy
because a contract was executed. special action was required. if replacement means “new” or “like” your watercraft.n
BOOKS/DVDS BY RICHARD P. SMITH

What’s In Your Great Michigan Deer Tales
?
??
Ol d Tac k l e B ox ??
? MORE BIG BUCK STORIES
Terry Joining him

McBurney,
Woods-n-
will be Dick
VanRaalte
Tracking Wounded Deer
Water News of Starboard Lots of NEW INFORMATION and ALL COLOR PHOTOS
staff writer and Marine
fishing tackle Restorations, Quantity Cost
historian, will Grand Haven, ____ *NEW* Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 7 ($16.50) _______
be setting up his Michigan who will ____ Tracking Wounded Deer - 3rd Edition ($25) _______
antique fishing exhibit part of his ____ Black Bear Hunting - 2nd Edition ($40.00) _______
tackle displays at collection of vintage ____ Walking with Whitetails DVD ($24.00) _______
the Outdoorama outboard motors. ____ Deer Hunting - 4th Edition ($35.00) _______
in Novi and the With over 25 years of ____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 6 ($16.50) _______
Ultimate Sports experience restoring ____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 5 ($16.50) _______
Show in Grand Rapids. old outboards, as well ____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 4 ($16.50) _______
With a lifetime of as wood and fiberglass ____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 3 ($16.50) _______
experience in the fishing boats, VanRaalte will also ____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 2 ($16.50) _______
industry and author of be answering questions ____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 1 ($15.50) _______
many magazine articles and offering free ____ Deer Tales Set - 2/$28; 3/$40; 4/$50; 5/$60; 6/$72; 7/$82 _______
on antique tackle, he will appraisals. They are also Please specify which books sent to the same address.
be answering questions interested in buying old ____ Stand Hunting for Whitetails ($19.00) _______
and offering free sporting collectibles for ____ Understanding Michigan Black Bear - 2nd Edition ($20.00) _______
SEND FOR YOUR ____ Animal Tracks & Signs of N.A. ($23) _______
appraisals at each show. their collections.
AUTOGRAPHED COPIES TODAY. ____ TOTAL _______
COME IN AND MEET THE EXPERTS Name

Novi Outdoorama Grand Rapids Ultimate Sports Show Address
Booth 5150 Booth #50 in The Grand Gallery City State Zip
Feb. 28 - March 3, 2019 March 14-17, 2019 Phone #
Suburban Collection Showcase DeVos Place Please remit by MasterCard, Visa, Check or Money Order.
Novi, Michigan Grand Rapids, Michigan Circle card type:
MC/Visa #
Expiration Date Signature
Make checks payable to: SMITH PUBLICATIONS
814 Clark St. • Marquette, MI 49855
www.RichardPSmith.com
Gun Talk: M1 Carbine
T
he first M1 Carbine I version, it was made by Universal
saw was in a house in in Hialeah, FL. Universals haven’t
Papua New Guinea. always had a good reputation for
PNG was so humid reliability. Mine is an early one and
that linens, and things has always worked well with fac-
that had to be kept tory ammo, but not as well with my
from mildew and rust, were kept in lighter reloads.
closets with lighted incandescent After plinking with it for a
bulbs in them. We were visiting at a while, I tried an NRA High Power
Lutheran Mission station down the Rifle Match with the carbine. The
coast from where we lived. targets were set at 200 yards. I’d The M1 Carbine is fun to shoot and good to train people with. It
In the humidity controlled seen claims that the carbine is only can also work for match shooting.
closet was an M1 Carbine and some a 100 yard gun. The bullets I fired at bines were retrofitted with the new carbine has mostly been used for
loaded magazines. The carbine was the match all went through the target sights and other improvements. fun shooting. It’s also a good gun to
a remnant of World War II, and was point first, and my score wasn’t At the end of World War II a train young, or small, shooters and
slick with oil. The rounds in much different than those selective fire carbine, the M2, was those who aren’t ready for the noise
the magazines might have I fired with the Garand. I fielded. A 30 round magazine was and recoil of a .308 or .30-06.
been as well. The light in shot another High Power developed to feed it and the maga- One Fourth of July I went to a
the closet made the carbine Match before going back zine catch was redesigned to hold sandpit in the morning. My target
and the mags gleam. The to the Garand. I noticed the heavier 30 round magazines se- was a bowling pin that had been
carbine made a big impres- that there was a distinct lag curely. The larger magazine did not worked over with a .45 pistol in pre-
sion on me. between the pop of the Uni- completely replace the original 15 vious practice sessions. I set the pin
Back home, the Army versal firing and the slap of rounders. Both are still available on at the base of a pile of sand, stepped
Surplus Store in a neighbor- the bullets hitting the target the surplus and the new magazine back 15 yards, and fired one .30
ing town had the usual boards. Also, in prone market. I’ve never fired an M2 but carbine round at it. At the shot the
canvas gear, knives,
and boots. In the back
By Lee Arten position, some of the
carbine brass flew over
it is on my list of full auto firearms I pin split in two. One half remained
still want to try. on the ground, the other half flew up
on the wall was an M1 Carbine. I my head and landed in the small of M2s tend to climb in full auto and over the berm. I’ve shot a lot of
must have looked at it 100 times and my back. That made me laugh. If I fire. They and M1s are sometimes pins with handguns, rifles, and shot-
the price was $79. The store is still was in shape for match shooting I decried as ineffective in combat. guns. But I’ve never gotten the same
there but there have been no car- wouldn’t hesitate to use the carbine They are recognized as easy to reaction from a pin with anything
bines there for years. I don’t go in as again. carry, but said to be lacking in but the carbine.n
much as I used to. The M1 Carbine was developed power compared to full battle rifles.
While in high school, I met a during World War II to replace the Those who could shoot well com-
gun collector who had a large group Colt pistol in .45 ACP for officers plained less than those who couldn’t Be sure to
of carbines. I only got to see a few and support troops. Six million it appears.
but he told me about the various were produced, more than any other Lt. Col. John George wrote check out the
makers of the carbines. One that US rifle made during the war. My Shots Fired In Anger. The original
intrigued me was the jukebox maker father was in the Army Air Corps in version contains a description of a Woods-N-Water News
Rockola. Italy during World War II. He made fight on a jungle trail when George
A bit later, someone tried to sell oxygen for the bomber crews, and was with Merrill’s Marauders in OUTDOOR
me a carbine that had been issued did the books for his detachment. Burma. A former match shooter,
to the Coast Guard. It was in good
shape and I should have bought it.
He had a carbine issued to him, on
paper, but said, “I never saw it.”
who spent time at Camp Perry,
George called his shots as he re-
WEEKEND
As usual then, I was short of funds. After the war M1 Carbines were treated down the trail. Several of the Sept. 6-7-8, 2019
My gun collection was growing given to U.S. allies and used around Japanese troops that tried to flank
but leaned toward .22s, grouse guns, the world. The original carbines had him died in the attempt. Eastern Michigan
and deer rifles. Carbines didn’t fit a flip up rear sight, a push button George was carrying an M1
into any of those groups but I still safety, and no bayonet lug. Carbines Carbine and shot it well enough to State Fairgrounds
looked at them. My wife made me produced later had a lever safety, an get clear of the Japanese and back to
happy by buying me a carbine as an adjustable sight, and a mount for the his own lines. Imlay City
anniversary present. An aftermarket bayonet. Most of the original car- Since the matches I shot, my

Plan Your
H Fishing
alf the fun of a fishing vaca- Houghton Lake Panfish
tion is in the planning. If Last ice can produce some great ice
it’s a new destination you’ll fishing. Look for bluegills, sunfish and
have to get maps, brochures,
Michigan
crappies to concentrate in the four to 10-
recommendations on lures foot depths on the south end of the lake
and equipment and sugges- where you find cabbage beds. Work the
tions on the best time to go. If it’s a entire water column with spikes or wax
Calendar
place you’ve been to before you begin worms for the bluegills and minnows
to reminisce about the big ones you for the crappies.
caught or that got away and the people Contact the Houghton Lake Area
you met along the way. Either way the Tourist & Convention Bureau at 800-
anticipation builds long before you actu- 676-5330 or online at www.roscom-
ally take the trip. moncounty.com.
Following is a list of destinations
old and new that you’ll want to consider APRIL
for this year. New Buffalo Cohos
This sleepy port is on fire for cohos
JANUARY in April. Shallow water, thermal input
Saginaw Bay Walleyes from factories and runoff concentrates a
Cold weather locks up Saginaw Bay hodgepodge of cohos and other salmo-
by mid-January. A hot first-ice bite oc- nids. Target the 10 to 30 foot depths.
curs in depths from six to 12-feet all the In-line planer boards and divers pulling
way from Linwood on the west around spoons, body baits and crankbaits all
to Sebewaing to the east on the inner score. Orange is a favorite color. Try
bay. First and last light produce the hot- small dodgers or flashers trailing black
36 HOTSPOTS
test action, although on overcast, cloudy flies too. The cohos will average one to
days fishing can be good throughout the three pounds and feature flame red flesh.
day. Hotpots are all along the shoreline
Jigging is the most productive from the pump house south of New Buf-
method. Drill lots of holes and keep falo all the way to Warren Dunes State
moving until you make contact with Park. There is a DNR launch near the
the roaming schools. Jigging spoons, mouth of the Galen River.
like Swedish Pimple and Do Jiggers, in For more information contact the
gold/orange, blue/silver and glow colors Southwest Michigan Tourist Council
are hot when tipped with a minnow or at 1-269-925-6301 or online at www.
minnow head. Anglers also score with swmichigan.org.
lead head jigs, Jigging Rapalas and does, ice anglers catch a mixed bag of Burt Lake Walleyes Belleville Lake Crappies
similar lures. A lift and drop cadence lake trout, whitefish, perch and smelt. Look for Cheboygan County’s Burt Impoundments of the Huron River
seems to work best. Most ’eyes will run The lake trout action starts in 70 to Lake to produce some hot walleye ac- begin warming in April and crappies
from two to eight-pounds, but double- 90 feet and moves deeper as winter tion in February. Most fish will average head for the south-facing bays to spawn
digit specimens are common. progresses. Live smelt, or blue or gray 15 to 20 inches, but fish pushing six- and feed. Minnows school in the tepid
For live bait, tackle and fishing shiners suspended below conventional pounds are fairly common. Try tip-ups water and the specks aren’t far behind.
reports contact Frank’s Great Outdoors and Slammer tip-ups work best. The with shiners or jigging spoons and Contact the Ypsilanti Convention &
at (989) 697-5341 online at www. trout will average two to three-pounds, minnows. Try 15 to 45 feet of water off Visitors Bureau at 734-483-4444.
franksgreatoutdoors.com. but leviathans topping 20 pounds are Kings and Colonial points. Menominee Brown Trout
Lake Independence Pike taken each winter. Browns and rainbows For more information contact the Brown trout fishing has declined
Lake Independence is one are available too. Indian River Chamber of Commerce around Menominee, but there are
of the state’s premier locations Three to six-pound white- at 1-800-238-9325 or online at www. enough browns to make things interest-
for giant pike. This Marquette fish can be caught right along irchamber.com. ing. In addition to brown trout the catch
County destination regularly with the trout. Anglers chum a
gives up northerns that will hole with corn, rice or spawn MARCH is likely to include splake and walleyes.
Try off Hennes Park, Stony Point and
top 20 pounds. Hotspots are and then fish the bottom with Big Manistee Steelhead off the mouth of the Cedar River. Try
off the mouth of the Yellow slip bobbers or jigs. Smelt can The “Big M” gets an early run of body baits off flat lines or behind in-line
Dog River, in Alder Bay on be caught at night on teardrops steelhead. Steelheads blast upstream boards in five to 20 feet of water.
the south side of the lake. Big and wax worms. Use a light to with the first hint of spring run-off. Contact Nest Egg Marine at 715-
suckers sus- attract microor- Some will be dark holdover fish; others 732-4466.
pended below
tip-ups take
By Mike Gnatkowski ganisms that at-
tract the smelt.
will be bright silver and fresh from Lake
Michigan. Fishing can be hot if we get MAY
some monsters Perch numbers a short melt. Prolonged snowmelt will Tittabawassee River Walleyes
in January. are high in Higgins, but the size is small send the river sky high and send steel- A cold spring finds plenty of post-
For information contact the Mar- right now. Use wigglers, wax worms or heads blasting up to Tippy Dam. Work spawn walleyes still in the Tittabawas-
quette Gander Mountain store at 906- minnows on bottom for the perch in 25 the slow pools and runs downstream see come May. Most will be males that
226-8300. to 50 feet of water. from spawning areas. Good access will average one to three-pounds, but
Lake Mitchell Crappies To book an ice-fishing charter on points are at Tippy Dam, High Bridge, fish up to eight pounds are available
Crappie numbers have exploded on Higgins Lake contact- John’s Frozen Bear Creek and Rainbow Bend. some years. Slipping-the-current to ver-
Lake Mitchell. Fish up to 17 inches are Charters at 1-989-422-6745. Contact Captain Mark Chruma at tical jig is a proven tactic. Dragging jigs
not unheard of. Locate green cabbage Lake Margrethe Bluegills 231-864-4051 for charter information. across shallow flats works too. Some
weeds that provide food and oxygen. Lake Margrethe’s 1,920-acres near Pere Marquette River Steelhead anglers troll with crankbaits upstream
Try off Big and Little Coves in six to 10 Grayling have been hot for good-sized The PM gets an early run of steel- with good success.
feet of water. Minnow are the favorite bluegills the past few winters. A good head. Without any dams the river warms Good access points are at Center
bait. location is 300 yards out from the state quickly. Fall-run fish will be fanning Street, Imerman Park and Wicks Park
Contact Pilgrim’s Village & Resort park in five to eight-feet of water. beds on bright, sunny days in mid- on the Saginaw River. A good location
at 231-775-5412 or www.michiweb. Look for a defined weed line. Other March. The flies-only section from is just upstream from where the
com/cadillac. hotspots include South Bay and off M-37 to Gleason’s Landing is popular Tittabawassee joins the Saginaw River.
Eagle Point. with fly fishermen. Drift fishermen and Try near West Michigan Park, above
FEBRUARY For more information contact the drift boaters pulling plugs will have the Gratiot Street Bridge and near
Higgins Lake Smorgasbord Grayling Visitors Bureau at 1-800-937- good success farther downstream near State Street. Expect to catch a bunch
It’s often February before 9,600-acre 8837 or online at www.grayling-mi. Branch, Sulak and Walhalla. Contact of other species too. For more informa-
Higgins Lake offers safe ice. When it com. Baldwin Bait & Tackle at 231-745-3529. tion contact the DNR’s Southern
Lake Huron Management Unit at 1-989-
684-9141.
St. Joe Kings
The warm waters of southern Lake
Michigan attract salmonids. Many target
the silvery cohos that average one to
three-pounds. Anglers wanting bigger
game will find kings around the color
line where the St. Joe River spills into
Lake Michigan.
Contact the Southwestern Michigan
Tourist Council at 269-925-6301.
Detroit River Walleyes
In recent year walleye fishing on
the Detroit River has been as good in
May as it is in April and you don’t have Lake Margrethe near Grayling has been hot for good-sized bluegills the past few winters.
to contend with nasty weather and boat
traffic. Most of the fish are smaller 17 to with minnows or cast gold and orange at first light and again in the evening. dence serves up hot walleye action just
19-inch males, which are perfect for the Rapalas. Anglers can gain access to the river before the lake freezes. Two to three-
fry pan. Craig Lake State Park at Insta-Launch campground, Bridge pound walleyes are the norm, but bigger
JUNE Craig Lake’s 6,900-acre wilderness
area that’s worth the hike. Seven lakes
Street, Rainbow Bend or Bear Creek. A
daily fee is charged to launch at several
fish are common. Key is to troll slowly
with bottom bouncers trailing body
Lake of the Clouds Smallmouths make up Craig Lake State Park and they of these accesses. Find a deep run and baits like Rapalas and ThunderSticks.
It’s worth the hike to fish Lake of are loaded with muskies, pike, walleyes wait for the salmon to move through. Best colors include perch and fire-tiger
the Clouds in Porcupine Mountains and smallmouths. Catch-and-release Position your baits to block their up- patterns. The ’eyes can be found relat-
Wilderness State Park. You can access fishing only. Artificial lures only. Use stream movement. ing to the 25- to 30-foot contours. Try
the lake via North Mirror Lake Trail. spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jigs. For more information contact Insta- out from the public launch and near the
Bring your float tube or portage a canoe. Contact Baraga County Tourism at Launch Campground at 1-231-723- mouth of the Yellow Dog River. Look
There is a cabin for rent on the lake. 906-339-4461. 3901. for humps and subtle contour changes
All fishing is catch-and-release only.
The most fun way to catch the smallies AUGUST Lake Erie Perch
Perch move into the shallows and go
that concentrate fish.
Muskegon Lake Walleyes
is on top water lures. Use a stop-and-go Ludington Kings on a feeding binge. Use a perch spreader Stealth trolling with stick baits
retrieve. The fish will average two to If there is salmon fishing happen- and minnows and drift until you make produces trophy walleyes on Muskegon
three-pounds. ing on Lake Michigan it’s happening at contact. Limits are common. Purchase Lake in November. Troll ultra slow
Contact the park office at 906-885- Ludington. Schools of kings converge an Ohio license just in case. along the 12 to 17 foot contours. Rip
5275. on Ludington in August. The focus is Contact DoubleJay Sport Fishing 2 the lure forward and watch for a subtle
Onekama Steelhead on Big Point Sable north of Ludington. (517) 715-3620. strike on the fallback.
Current, wind and upwelling create Chinooks and boats congregate on the Greenwood Reservoir Contact Shoreline Services at 231-
scum lines that collect bugs and at- structure there. First and last light is Northerns & Walleyes 759-7254.
tract steelhead off Onekama. Use your the best time. Use flashers and flies, Cooling water makes for hot fishing Tawas Whitefish
temperature gauge and Coast Watch plugs and magnum spoons. Fish the on Greenwood Reservoir in Septem- Whitefish move into the shallows of
temperature maps to locate breaks. Fish 90 to 130-foot depths. When fishing ber. Northerns and walleyes put on the Tawas Bay in November. Anglers line
will be in the top 20 feet. Use in-line slows head west for a potpourri of coho, feedbag in early fall. Look for pike off the piers to catch the tasty whitefish.
boards, short cores and Slider Divers steelhead and lake trout. South off the Humenne Island and right off the boat Use slip bobbers and tear drops baited
with hot colored spoons. Look for birds Consumer’s Energy Project can be good launch. with wax worms. The fish average two
OCTOBER
and surface activity. Expect rainbows up too. to five-pounds. Limits are generous.
to 16 pounds. Contact Captain Chuck’s II Inc at Contact the Tawas Bay Tourist &
Driggs River Brook Trout 231-843-4458. Lake Cadillac & Mitchell Pike Convention Bureau at 800-558-2927.
June is a great time to catch some Stannard Rock Lake Trout Big pike go on the prowl on
brookies for the frying pan on School-
craft County’s Driggs River, if you can
Stable weather in August makes it
the perfect time to make the long run to
Mitchell and Cadillac as waters cool in
October. Northerns in the 38- to 40-inch DECEMBER
range are common. Key is to locate Houghton Lake Panfish
tolerate the bugs. The Driggs gives Stannard Rock. You can head out from
still-growing vegetation. Cast Husky Shallow 20,000 acre Houghton Lake
up limits of 8- to 10-inch brook trout Marquette or the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Jerks and big spinnerbaits over and freezes early and provides some great
to anglers using worms, spinners and Watch the weather, make sure your boat
first-ice panfish action. Bluegill and
flies. Access can be gained off M-28 or is seaworthy and use common sense. Jig around the weeds. Mitchell is better for
numbers; Cadillac produces better fish. crappies populations have rebounded af-
Driggs River Road. with 2-ounce jigs with sucker meat or
JULY Giant smallmouths are an added bonus. ter the weeds were killed off a few years
troll for trout in excess of 30 pounds.
For more information contact ago. Try off the south shore and the area
Contact the Marquette County
Lake St. Clair Smallmouths Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800- Pilgrim’s Village & Resort at 231-775- known as “The Heights” in as little as
Lake St. Clair is a fixture in the top 544-4321. 5412. 4 feet of water for slab ’gills. Look for
10 of the B.A.S.S. Top 100. Smallmouth Lake St. Clair Muskies crappies to 14 inches in the same area,
Pickett Dam Backwater Bass
fishing is on fire in July on Lake St. An impoundment of the Sturgeon Muskies begin migrating back into but slight deeper water. Minnows work
Clair. Look for weed beds and channel the U.S. waters of Lake St. Clair in best for the specks and larva for the
River, Baraga County’s Picket Dam
edges to concentrate fish. Try a tube jig Backwater is loaded with largemouths October. Fall is a great time for trophy bluegills.
in pumpkinseed or silver glitter color. fish. Speed trolling with giant plugs Hamlin Lake Bluegills
and smallmouths. Try the drop-offs near
Try off the Metro Beach access south of covers water and produces fish. Expect Hamlin Lake’s first ice bluegill ac-
the myriad of islands and weed beds in
the mile roads. On calm mornings top muskies in excess of 30 pounds. tion is incredible. Try off Wilson Park
10 to 30-feet of water for bass that will
water action can be fantastic. Expect 30 St. Marys River Salmonids in six to eight-feet of water. Wax worms
top five-pounds. Use top water lures.
fish days with many in the two to four-
SEPTEMBER The St. Marys offers a hodge podge work well early. Try orange or char-
pound range. of trout and salmon in October. Fish the treuse teardrops. Spot a tip-up for bonus
Contact Lakeside Sports Shop at Manistee River Chinooks rapids below the International Bridge. pike and walleyes.
586-777-7003. Bronze-colored kings rush into the Access via the Canadian side of the Contact Captain Chuck’s II at 231-
Lake Michigammee Walleyes Manistee River in September headed for river. Use caution wading. Expect 843-4458.
One of the U.P.’s premier walleye Tippy Dam. Anglers can intercept them steelhead, Chinooks, lakers, Atlantics, Lake Gogebic Perch
lakes. July finds Michigammee walleyes in the lower reaches of the river. Many and more. Perch to 16 inches are not uncom-
mon on first ice. Work the 20 to 30 foot
NOVEMBER
feeding heavily. Try off the mouth of the anchor at the head of a run and let Flat-
Peshekee River on the east end of Van fish or Hot-N-Tots wiggle in the current. depths with slip bobber with minnows
Riper State Park. Troll with bottom- Others toss spinners or back-bounce Lake Independence Walleyes for jumbo perch and bonus walleyes.
bouncers and crawler harnesses, jig with spawn. The best fishing is usually Marquette County’s Lake Indepen- Limits are common.n
Remembering
that deer hunt
D
eer hunters often want a wide spectrum of length, diameter
to keep the antlers and conformation. If you look at
from the deer they the antlers from a deer that a fellow
take each year. Hung hunter has taken, the eyes will light
on the wall, those up and that hunter will be able to
antlers will bring back tell you how, when and where that
pleasant memories of the deer was taken and you
hunt. The antlers, after all, will soon know more than
are the reason we prefer you ever wanted to know
to take bucks, rather than about that deer hunt. The With one screw in place, position the antlers carefully before drilling
does, even though we rec- bottom line is, the antlers for the second screw. George Rowe photo
ognize that we must harvest preserve the memories of
some does every year and those hunts so we do what you didn’t save the cape or hide with a stiff brush, removing all the
even though we know that we can to save and display from the deer – the taxidermist can dirt and at least some of the stains
the doe might produce bet- those antlers. come up with a replacement cape, left by hooking branches and trees.
ter eating. All does If the deer which, of course, will cost you a The cleaned antlers will be
By George Rowe
look alike but ev- is a truly grand little more money. The taxidermist somewhere between white and tan
ery buck is distinc- specimen, you can also prepare a handsome mount in color and they won’t be uniform,
tively different. might want to get of just the antlers, putting them on a being marked by many scars and
While they may look the same, the head mounted. You will have wooden plaque with appropriate in- stains. Be sure all the matter next to
deer antlers are really unique. While to part with some important bucks formation inscribed on a little metal the bone has been removed or the
two fork-horns might look very for that but if the deer has once-in- plate. The going price for a basic antlers will be a bit whiffy while
much the same, closer inspection a-lifetime antlers, you might want or standard head mount these days this material dries out naturally. You
reveals that they are quite different. to consider it. You can do this even will be at least $500. The tab for an can usually satisfy this requirement
Even spikehorns show growth over if all you have is the antlers and antler mount will run from $75 to $ by simply putting the antlers in an
150, depending on the quality of the unheated garage for a few weeks,
materials selected. being careful not to put them where
A skilled taxidermist can make mice or other rodents can get at
Superior Game Ranch repairs to a set of antlers, if a tine

or even a whole side gets dam-
aged or knocked right off the skull.
them. The little guys will nibble
away at the bone and can ruin a set
of antlers in a hurry.
Route 3 Box 163 • Cornell, MI 49818 The repair can be done so well that The little bits of flesh and sinew
you won’t be able to detect it. You and gray matter will freeze and dry
Incredible U.P. of Michigan can buy an antler-mounting kit for out quite naturally and can then be
around twenty dollars or, you can do brushed away. If the skull plate has
Hunting Opportunities it yourself. been cut right, you should have a
Private farmland in south Marquette The first step is to clean up the nice covering of deer hair over the
antlers. Make sure your processor part of the skull that will show. If
County Michigan, fully guided has made the two cuts right so that you prefer, you can remove that hair
bow and firearm hunts in the back of the vertical cut will be and cover that area with a piece of
hunting preserve for: Elk, flush against the plaque. If not, you soft leather or fabric. The hair will
may have to cut it anew, using a last for decades, however, if you
Whitetail Deer, Buffalo, Wild Large Russian Boar carpenter’s hand saw or a band saw. give it a spray of moth-killer once or
Boar, Red Stag & Fallow Deer. Hunts Available! Using dish-washing detergent in twice a year.
the laundry tub or a suitable bucket, The next step is to prepare a
scour the antlers and the skull plate plaque. Chose a good flat piece of
Trophy Elk,
Trophy Red Stag & H i f i ve Ke n n e l s
Wild Bird Dog Training
Trophy Fallow Deer
Lodging available for
groups of up to 12 people.
Still Booking Hunts!
• Proven Training Program
Call (906) 238-4482 or
• All Pointing Breeds
(906) 630-1617 • Pups & Star ted Dogs
for more information and reservations. Bruce & Neal Minard Hifivekennels.com
Hifivekennels@aol.com
www.superiorgameranch.com 231-499-3060 Michigan - Georgia
Family Hunting Success
almost any kind of wood. If you ture, so you will have to compensate
want to get fancy, choose oak or with your anchoring screws to make
maple or birch but pine will do the mount look as nice as possible.
about as well, if you stain the piece. It is a rare rack that is entirely sym-
Using a hand-held jigsaw, coping metrical.
saw or a bandsaw, cut an attrac- It is nice to put at least a bit of
tive shape out of the piece of wood. information on the plaque. You can
You might choose a shield, a circle, get fancy and put this on a metal
an oblong or even the heart-shape plate on the front or just put it on
that suggests the track of a white- the back with a felt pen. The infor-
tail deer. Sand the piece smooth, mation might include the date, the
remove the dust carefully, stain it name of the hunter and where it was
if you wish and then apply two or taken and perhaps the weight of the
three coats or polyurethane, sanding deer and any significant details (i.e.
lightly between coats. Junior’s first deer or Dad’s first bow
Put a hang-up hole in the center and arrow buck).
of the top of the plaque. Mounting If the hunters in the camp or the
the antlers is a bit tricky. Place the household use a variety of weap-
antlers on the finished plaque and ons to hunt deer, it might be nice
draw lines lightly around the outer to identify the weapon on the front
edges of the skull plate. Then, turn- of the plaque. This can be done
ing the skull plate over, see where by drilling a hole and sticking in
the screws must be placed in order a piece of the arrow or crossbow
to hold the plate to the plaque. Mea- bolt that took the deer or by drill-
sure the placement of the needed ing a half-inch hole and sticking
hole on the plate and transfer that a patched ball or sabot in the hole
measurement to the wooden plaque. or by cutting off the back end of a
Do just one hole first and then brass cartridge case and sticking that Rick Adlen and his niece, Autumn Pratt had great success
put that screw in and tighten it in a hole, showing that the deer was
taken with a 30-06.
bowhunting Macomb County. Rick took a dandy 10-point on
just enough so that you can get the
antlers positioned just right on the Mounted on a wall in the family Halloween and Autumn took a pair of 8-points, the first during
plaque. Now you can drill the hole room or den or even in the shop the youth hunt and the second hunting on Oct. 12, both with
for the second screw and fasten it or garage, the antlers never stop her crossbow. Rick’s nephew, Jake Adlen added to the family’s
in place. The antlers are very often reminding the hunter of that very success by taking a bear out of the Dead Stream Swamp.
skewed one way or the other, in na- special day in the woods.n
THE RINGNECK Bay View Your

RANCH, LLC. Resort & Motel

Woods-N-Water News
Upland Game • Open Year Round
Day or Week Affordable, Fly-in Fishing on 6 Remote Lakes
Wing Shooting in Jackson County, MI
RINGNECKS - Dogs & guides available.
• HUBBARD LAKE
is
Just a Click Away!
Excellent cover. Full and half day hunts. No membership
fees. One hour or less from Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Home Of The New Record
Lansing, the Indiana and Ohio State lines. Small Mouth Bass.
Gift certificates • A family and pet friendly
AVAILABLE. resort with 5 cottages and 3
motel rooms located on the lake. • Subscriptions
517-524-8294 For more information Call
• Email the Editor
FIELD HUNTS AND
EUROPEAN STYLE SHOOTS
989-727-2341 • Classifieds -
www.bayviewresort.info
www.theringneckranch.com
Buy, Sell, Trade
• Send Photos
or Story Tips
MAG-NA-BRAKE • Advertising
Information
• Reduce Recoil
• Reduce Muzzle Jump
• Quality Porting Since 1971
woods-n-waternews.com FishBuckLake.com
41302 Executive Dr., Harrison Twp. MI 48045-1306

It’s Easy . . .
VISIT TODAY!
Ph: 586-469-6727 · Fax: 586-469-0425
705-534-1991
Email: email@magnaport.com
www.magnaport.com

Michigan Deer Camp Traditions
A series of stories about Deer Camps
in the Great State of Michigan...
The Pigeon
River Patriarch
B
ehind every successful tra- them, and they too pass along their
dition stands someone that traditions to the next generation.
was brave enough to take Often these way-makers don’t real- Ed, Chuck, John, and Joe at the original tent camp in the 1980s.
the first step. Someone ize the impact that they are making
was daring enough to try at the time, but the results Navigating the Pigeon River was also a useful lesson for the
something completely new often shape the lives of State Forest was difficult in the early up-and-coming hunters. Aside from
or venture down a path that many for years and years to days. Low temperatures and signifi- a tarp as the roof, these blinds were
still had yet to be blazed. come. cant amounts of snow would make constructed and concealed strictly
Success isn’t a destination. This is certainly the the main trail very difficult to travel. with forest materials.
Rather, it’s a journey. It’s case with the deer camp tra- With a previous knowledge of the Each hunting spot was named in
a journey that involves the ditions started many years area, Uncle Joe drew upon past such a way that over time, every-
sharing of the blessings that ago by Uncle Joe. When experiences and set up camp along one could both relate to the blinds
have been rightfully earned visiting family in Gaylord, a trail that was centrally located in or the trails leading there. Some
a single square mile block outlined of these include the Elk Trail, The
By Jake Dykstra
(through much trial Joe had stumbled
and error) with oth- upon the Pigeon by multiple logging trails and two Logging Trail, Sleepy Hollow Trail,
ers. In turn, these River State Forest. tracks. This location would come to The Pine Needle Trail, and the Fred
grateful recipients
show a deep-rooted
Wildlife Realty In awe of the vast
spans of forest,
serve its purpose well if one were to
lose their way —all they would have
Bear Stand. Many of these make-
shift ground blinds were fortified
appreciation for the serenity of the to do is continue to take all right amongst thick evergreens, dense
the path that has been paved before river, and the incredible amount of turns or all left turns and they would hardwoods, or unchartered swamps.
wildlife, Joe vowed to return some find themselves back in the middle Uncle Joe’s decision to set up camp
day to enjoy this slice of paradise. of camp. and to name these trails accordingly
Come stay at Joe returned shortly thereafter. Deer camp started as a 9 by 15 greatly eased the burden of learning
foot canvas tent waterproofed by new territory for his young hunters.
Whispering Cedars Lodge Armed with no hunting experience,
no camp life, and no mentor of his blue tarps. Once the tent was in
place, ropes were strung between
Ed was first to capitalize on the
lessons shared by his uncle. A well-
Your home away from home! own, Joe returned with nothing but
trees with a PVC skeleton erected placed shot with the 20 gauge pro-
a burning desire to become a deer
hunter in the Pigeon River State beneath. This would serve as the duced a nice six-point buck. There
Year-round outdoor sportsmen’s structural support for a large aw- was much to learn on one’s first
Forest.
lakefront paradise just 20 minutes It took Joe several years and ning. On the bitterly cold evenings, deer, and under the direction and
from Alpena. Beautifully decorated, it’s countless solo hunts in the woods Uncle Joe and his deer campers supervision of Uncle Joe, Ed was to
a 4,400 sq ft luxurious home with all before he harvested his first deer. As would spread straw beneath the tent field dress it himself. There is also
the modern comforts – that sleeps 14! time progressed, through trial and for additional warmth and insula- a sense of satisfaction that one feels
error, Joe became quite an experi- tion. It took half a day to set up when the work of dragging their
enced hunter. This became evident camp, and in addition a pit for the harvest back to camp is complete.
when Joe’s sister requested that he latrine was to be dug. An outhouse This too, was a lesson that Joe felt
take her two boys, Ed and Chuck, blind sat over top for privacy and a his young nephews must learn as he
on his annual retreat. Not knowing shield from the wind. once had.
what to expect, Uncle Joe reluctant- A larger tarp was also draped Once back a camp, a very tired
ly agreed to take his two nephews to around and partially over top of the but an extremely proud Ed stood
deer camp that year. fire pit. This would be where all gazing beneath his trophy that he
non-hunting related activities were had worked so hard to earn. This
spent. A few years later Coleman would be Ed’s first and last deer.
Hunters, snowmobilers, ice- gas stoves and lanterns would be His love for shooting with a camera
used, but a campfire was always and camp life led him to other du-
fisherman and winter lovers come blazing as the sole provider of both ties such as the camp chef (much to
enjoy this majestic space on the heat and a means for cooking good everyone’s excitement)!
shores of Hubbard Lake, an 8,850 food. On one of the earlier ventures
acre lake known for its excellent
Licensed Shooting Uncle Joe took the success of his to the Pigeon River State Forest, a
bass, trout, walleye and yellow perch Preserve apprentices very seriously. He was vehicle had pulled up alongside of
fishing and as a winter ice-fishing
Mayville, MI
sincerely gratified when the young Uncle Joe as he walked along one of
(989) 843-6576 Chuck and Ed took to hunting and the trails. The party joyfully relayed
spot. Access to 450 acres of hunting camp life. This marked the begin-
• Dogs with Guides Available • Clubhouse that a young man (Chuck) had
land included in rental. • Open 7 Days A Week • Bird Cleaning ning of their journey to becoming downed a deer about a mile away,
• Fields With Excellent Cover & • Morning And Afternoon true sportsmen. Uncle Joe always and they would gratefully offer their
For more information Safety Fields In Between Hunts made it known that any deer taken services to help. Uncle Joe, never
and rental details visit: • Birds Released After You Arrive • Extra Birds Shot are Free on pressured state land was a true one to set aside an opportunity to
• No Gun Or Membership Fees • Gift Certificates Available trophy, and they should be treated as teach a lesson to his nephews, po-
https://www.vrbo.com/3934142ha Located 17 Miles North of Lapeer such. Because treestands were not litely declined the offer and offered,
legal at the time, the art of blend- “Your first deer is the one that is
or Call 989.916.7280 www.jankspheasantfarm.com ing in a weather-resistant box blind always remembered!”
Quite some time later, Chuck, himself more comfortable, someone
proud as could be, came into camp rushed him over the medicine bottle.
huffing and puffing, a good size deer With a large swig, the pain was
in tow. This was the start of Chuck promptly lifted from Joe’s face and
becoming an exceptional hunter, leg and he began to chuckle. Black-
one of the best Uncle Joe has ever berry Brandy sure does cure all the
known. “ailments” one may have, even if it
Over the years, many friends was just the cold that bit!”
and family members have also tried There was always a good time to
the camp, but many didn’t stick. be had at deer camp!
John did stick. Another family mem- Chuck’s schedule has made
ber of Joe’s, John became an accom- annual hunting trips difficult, but
plished hunter harvesting numerous he always made it a priority to
deer, even with a bow. Mark, a spend what little time he could
friend of Ed and Chuck growing up, in the woods with his Uncle Joe.
also began attending the annual deer Sometimes, Chuck would arrive late The original campsite configuration back in 1985.
camp. Originally, Mark had spent after dark, only to leave the next
several years doing his own thing afternoon for another work trip. His frozen vacuum-packed venison ago by Uncle Joe continue to guide
before succumbing to the callings of What was uncanny, however, was processed by Uncle Joe is shipped to others through the great outdoors,
Uncle Joe’s deer camp. Mark is now Chuck’s ability to produce with such him every year. Joe has considered now deep into a second genera-
a crossbow expert and has almost little time. Without question, before this as part of the hunt and it brings tion of hunters. Chuck, Ed, Mark,
every gadget and convenience that a Chuck would leave, there was a him great satisfaction to be able to and John are so grateful for the
hunter could possibly use. nice buck hanging on the buck pole. share his hunting success with his willingness of one man to share his
As Uncle Joe’s deer camp began Such good fortune warranted Chuck family yet. knowledge about the outdoors and
to grow, so did their reputation with the nickname BBC (Big Buck Mark and John have started especially his love for the Pigeon
the locals. Joe would always ar- Chuck). bringing up their boys to the Pigeon River Forest. The time spent and the
rive in an old and tired Oldsmobile, As time marched on, setting River now, and so a new genera- memories made along the Pigeon
deemed “The White Elephant,” a up camp became more cumber- tion of up-and-coming hunters has River are priceless, and they owe
few days early to claim the campsite some and difficult. In 2009 Chuck begun. The tradition that started de- it all to Uncle Joe, the Patriarch of
and get all set up. After Joe would purchased an old log cabin just cades ago by a man with a burning their Pigeon River deer camp tradi-
have the canvas and tent erected, 10 minutes away from the origi- desire to hunt and the drive to start tions.
there was no mistaking that the nal campsite. In rather dire shape, a deer camp of his own continue to “To many more years enjoying
“Blue Tarp Bunch” had returned Chuck spent a significant amount of flourish. The paths paved so long the Pigeon with you, Joe”...Chuck.n
for yet another year of hunting the time renovating the new deer camp.
Pigeon River State Forest. The Blue Chuck replaced damaged logs, put
Tarp Bunch camp life also had a a new roof on, upgraded the elec- Your chance
tric, added a glass door wood stove,
reputation to be reckoned with.
A campfire was always roaring, created a semi modern outhouse, to win has never
regardless of the time of day. Break- hung interior lighting, constructed
fast was always eggs, toast, and a a loft storage area, and built a long been better!
3rd annual
meat of some kind. Corned beef was
an occasional treat that everyone
kitchen counter.
The hunting traditions have aged BETTER THAN
looked forward to. Usually after a tremendously since the acquisi- 1 in 34 chance to win!
morning’s hunt, lunches would be tion of the cabin… in a good sense
burgers cooked on the fire grate. though, much like the aging of the Prizes of guns and other merchandise from quality manufactures such as:
Dinners, however, were fit for kings. cherished fine wine that was always
Steak, baked potatoes, and veg-
etables were grilled over the fire. A
enjoyed at the Blue Tarp Bunch
dinner table. Some impressive deer
Ruger, Smith & Wesson, Benelli
Dutch oven in the fire pit provided mounts adorn the cabin walls, each and much more.
$11,200 in prizes
many years of memories of Cornish with their own unique story from the
hen feasts that were piping hot at
a day’s end. The evening dinner
Pigeon River Forest. The addition
of a microwave and toaster are just
over
setting situated the table and chairs a few of the simple pleasures that Eagle Eye Country Club • Bath, Michigan
around the fire pit; the table adorned are gratefully welcomed both before
with a bottle of wine that would set and after time spent in the woods. March 23rd, 2019
the tone for a hearty evening full of The cabin has become a warm and $20.00 per ticket
fun and laughter. comfortable camp dwelling that is
Cold beer complimented the now used year-round. A day camp Prize List
evening with storytelling. On is still used at the original campsite, 1. Savage 220 Slug 20ga Slug 12. Mossberg 500 Combo/Bantam 25. Ruger American 450 Bushmaster
nights where one of the campers for staging, lunches, and a warm Blued BBL 13. Marlin XT-22M 22 Mag 26. Stoeger P3500 12/26” MAX5
had scored a successful hunt that fire, but it is a joy to retreat back 2. Ruger LCP II 380ACP 14. Nikon Binoculars Pmp
day, beer can candles would be lit to the cabin on cold fall and winter 3. Remington 870 express 12/28” 15. Walter P22QD Pistol 27. T/C Compass 30/06
to illuminate the buck pole. These evenings. 4. Marlin 336W 30-30 16. Moss 715T 22LR 28. Stihl Chainsaw
homemade lanterns would provide After decades of hunting, while 5. Stihl Chainsaw 17. Ruger American 243 Blued 29. Stoeger P3500 12/28” Pump
enough light for more storytelling Uncle Joe has slowed a bit, his en- 6. Ruger 10/22 Takedown Blue 18. T/C Compass 30/06 30. Savage MKII 22LR Heavy BBL
7. Savage Model 64 w/Scope 19. Stihl Chainsaw 31. Traditions G4 Ultralight Muzz
and toasting. One of these stories thusiasm for hunting remains strong. 8. Benelli Nova 3.5” 12/28” Matt 20. Ruger American 308 Predator 32. Nikon Binoculars
has gone down as legendary. The last deer that he harvested he 9. Henry Goldenboy 22 L.R. 21. Ruger AR556 33. Stoeger P3500 12/28” Pump
“One day Uncle Joe came hob- gratefully accepted the offer to assist 10. Bushnell Trophy Cam 22. Savage 93 .17HMR w/Scope 34. Benelli Nova 12/28” MX5 Camo
bling into camp, clutching his leg, dragging it back. Ed, although living 11. Reminton 870 express 12/20” 23. Bushnell Trophy Cam 35. Bushnell Trophy Cam
hollering “Snake Bite!” Crying out in Seattle, has only missed just a Rifled BBL 24. S&W SD9VE Pistol
in agony, he instructed the green- few years in the Pigeon. Chuck, now *Commemorative Bucks of Michigan reserves the
horns in camp to find the medicine living in Texas, has less time than he call (517) 679-6226 to order tickets right to substitute prize of equal value if unforeseen
bottle from the box that resided be- Visit: www.buckfax.com for more info
would like to spend up at the cabin event occurs and prize is not available
*Need not be present to win - License # R38163
neath the camp table. As Joe made in the Pigeon River State Forest.
MDNR’s reflections on 2018
F
or the Michigan De- designated trails and pathways – one In October 2018, the Ralph C.
partment of Natural of the largest, interconnected trail Wilson Jr. Foundation announced
Resources, 2018 has systems in the country – Michigan a $100 million investment of parks
been busy. The DNR, is known as The Trails State. This and trails in Southeast Michigan,
with the help of many trails system offers plenty of social, including segments of the Iron Belle
partners, has made great economic and health benefits, cater- Trail.
strides in its ongoing efforts to take ing to a variety of users, including With the creation of a new State
care of the state’s natural and cultur- bicyclists, hikers, ORV riders, cross- Water Trails program, the DNR
al resources and provide outstanding country skiers, snowmobilers, horse- announced this month that eight
outdoor recreation opportunities. back riders, paddlers and others. waterways, totaling 540-plus miles
Here are a few highlights of how The system also includes the flowing through more than a dozen
the DNR spent 2018. Iron Belle Trail, Michigan’s signa- counties, have been selected as the
Providing Quality Outdoor ture hiking and biking trail extend- first state-designated water trails in
Recreation Opportunities ing more than 2,000 miles from the Michigan.
The DNR continued its work to far western tip of the Upper Penin- DNR Parks and Recreation
ensure excellent opportunities for sula to Belle Isle in Detroit. Chief Ron Olson said that water
hunting and fishing, both of which There was renewed interest trails are an increasing trend in
contribute billions of dollars to the sparked in 2018 in the Iron Belle Michigan and nationally, as interest
state’s economy each year. Trail Fund Campaign, marked by an in paddle sports and other water-
Fourteen state-record fish have event in Ann Arbor where more than based recreation continues to grow.
been caught in Michigan in the last $10.5 million in private donations Water trails feature well-devel-
10 years, pointing to the abundance was announced. oped access points, often are near
and health of our fish populations. “Quality outdoor recreation significant historical, environmental
The DNR stocks more than 25 resources and opportunities mean a
million fish each year, in more than lot to the people who use and value
1,000 locations across both peninsu- them, and to the communities they
las. Forty percent of all recreational serve,” DNR Director Keith Creagh Brandonn Kramer poses with his
fishing in Michigan depends on said. “The Iron Belle Trail offers so state record black buffalo, taken
stocked fish. many beautiful places where people while bowfishing on the Grand
In 2018, the DNR expanded the make memories, improve their River in Ottawa County this past May.
recently created Fishing Tournament health, and recharge their energy. Four teen state-record fish have been
The state and our many partners are caught in Michigan in the last 10
Information System – a statewide, years, pointing to the abundance and
online registration and reporting tool on an ambitious time line to get the
remainder of these connected miles health of our fish populations.
that makes it easier for tournament
managers to meet the requirement of in place.”
having all bass fishing tournaments To date, the DNR and partners included expanding parking, adding
registered – to include all bass and have built and engineered more than new handgun shooting stations and
walleye tournaments. To date, the 100 miles of new trail to complete installing a well to provide potable
system has received more than the Iron Belle Trail’s 1,422 miles water, with construction of new
2,000 bass tournament registrations of existing hiking and biking trails, accessible parking and walkways
and results reports. with just over 600 remaining to be planned at three ranges in 2019.
The DNR is continually improv- connected. Looking to get outdoors in
ing habitat on the 4.5 million acres 2019? Check out michigan.gov/dn-
of public hunting land it manages. rcalendar.
Hunters can explore seven managed Previous Pure Michigan Hunt Winner Taking Care of Michigan’s
waterfowl areas, 19 grouse en- Jim Bosscher of McBain, on opening Woods, Waters and Wildlife
hanced management sites (known as day of waterfowl season at Fish Point The “Good Neighbor Authority”
GEMS) that allow walk-in hunting, State Game Area in Tuscola County. allows state natural resource agen-
and more than 180 state game and So far this year, hunters have con- cies to assist the U.S. Forest Service
wildlife areas. These locations also tributed almost $200,000 to wildlife and the federal Bureau of Land
offer abundant wildlife watching management by purchasing Pure Management on timber and water-
opportunities. Michigan Hunt applications. shed restoration projects across the
So far this year, hunters have country.
contributed almost $200,000 to or cultural points of interest and In 2018, the DNR increased its
wildlife management by purchasing often have nearby amenities like res- Good Neighbor Authority efforts
Pure Michigan Hunt applications taurants, hotels and campgrounds. from the previous year, preparing
that give them a shot at a prize pack- “These state-designated water 2,400 acres for timber sale and pro-
age valued at over $4,000, as well trails will encourage close-to-home ducing 38,500 cords of wood from
as licenses for elk, bear, spring and outdoor recreation and healthy life- the four national forests in Michigan
fall turkey and antlerless deer, and styles while boosting local econo- – the Huron and Manistee national
first pick at a managed waterfowl mies, giving even more reason to forests in the Lower Peninsula and
area. The application period ends at call Michigan The Trails State,” said the Ottawa and Hiawatha in the Up-
midnight Dec. 31. Paul Yauk, the DNR’s state trails per Peninsula.
Michigan’s 103 state parks coordinator. This state/federal partnership
continue to provide the scenic The DNR’s staffed shooting will grow to more than 7,500 acres
spaces, natural resources and access ranges, located in southern Michi- in 2019.
to outdoor recreation opportunities In 2018, the DNR has been intensely gan state parks and game areas, In 2018, oversight of the state’s
that attract tens of millions of people focused on mitigating impacts from made improvements to accommo- Registered Forester program trans-
every year. chronic wasting disease on Michi- date a growing number of shooting
With 12,500-plus miles of state- gan’s white-tailed deer population. sports enthusiasts. Updates this year DNR’s 2018 page 82
Ever wanted to be on the cover of the
Woods-N-Water News?
Yes, you can have your August 2018
outdoor photo on a
mock cover of the
Woods-n-Water News
Michigan’s Premier Outd
oor Publication
Woods-N-Water News...
Headline
• first deer • biggest fish
• fondest outdoor memory
...captured for the entire family to enjoy!
Great Gift Idea! Optional
secondary
Email (wnw@pageone-inc.com)
your photo with your suggested
headline
custom headline, optional sec-
ondary headline and any addi-
tional text. Or complete the
form below and mail your photo.
Must be paid in advance. More
info please call 810-724-0254
Sent ready for matting and framing Additional Text Here

on 11x14 card stock
Woods-N-Water News reserves the right to refuse any order if it is considered to be in poor taste or unethical.
$
15
Mail to: Woods-N-Water News, PO Box 278, Imlay City, MI 48444
Please write in your Headline, Optional Secondary Headline and additional text below.
#1) Custom Headline

ONE PHOTO
ADDITIONAL $5.00 FOR EXTRA PHOTOS
#2) Optional Secondary Caption
We will design and
#3) Additional Text mail a customized
(Please complete information below) Number of Photos: Woods-N-Water News
1 photo included in $15 charge. Any additional photos, $5 per photo.
Name Number of Covers: Total Price:
cover of your favorite
$15 per cover with 1 photo. Additional covers $5 each. outdoor photo of you,
Address City State Zip your child, your
hunting or
Phone # Email fishing buddy.
Full color, (11” x 14”)
MC/Visa Expires Check delivered to your home.
(Add $5 per additional photo. Please allow four weeks to process your order, be specific on your order, date and text.)

eradicate and control invasive pests our natural resources. The 252
MDNR’s Reflections 2018

on the land and in the water. officers budgeted for the 2019 fiscal
Because of this grant program, year is an all-time high.
more than 285,000 acres of land Connecting People
and water have been surveyed for With The Outdoors
from page 80 invasive species; more than 18,000 Since the beginning of the 2018-
acres have been treated for inva- 2019 school year, over 1,000 educa-
ferred to the DNR from the Michi- provide valuable nesting, brood- sive terrestrial and aquatic plants; tors have received the DNR’s free
gan Department of Licensing and rearing, foraging and winter habitat and millions of people have been wildlife curricula for their class-
Regulatory Affairs. The move was for a wide range of wildlife, includ- reached with educational informa- rooms, information that helps give
part of a restructuring process for ing deer, turkeys, pheasants, ducks, tion about invasive species. students an understanding of Michi-
this voluntary program that encour- rabbits, songbirds and pollinators. “It’s clear that Michigan’s gan’s wildlife and their habitats.
ages higher standards for Michi- This year, the DNR has been Invasive Species Grant Program is Kindergarten through high school
gan’s foresters. intensely focused on mitigating im- accomplishing many of the goals set educators can get these resources for
Changes to the program include pacts from chronic wasting disease for the program at the very start,” use in the second half of the school
an up-to-date online database and a on Michigan’s white-tailed deer said Creagh. “The fight to stop, con- year. Featured species include wa-
new complaint review process. population. This fatal disease has tain and eradicate invasive species terfowl, black bears and elk.
“The new program is the ideal been found in free-ranging deer in from Michigan’s woods and water is The DNR recently – after two
source for landowners to find highly Clinton, Dickinson, Eaton, Gratiot, critical to the long-term protection years of mapping and reviewing the
qualified foresters to help them Ingham, Ionia, Jackson, Kent, and of these valuable natural resources, condition of the state forest roads it
manage their forest land,” said Deb Montcalm counties. and this grant program is helping in maintains across both peninsulas –
Begalle, chief of the DNR’s Forest Following public engagement that fight.” completed an initial inventory used
Resources Division. meetings and surveys, hunting Protecting The State’s to create interactive maps showing
Nearly two-thirds of Michigan’s regulations were changed for the Natural Resources/Citizens where ORV use is allowed on these
20 million acres of forest are pri- 2018 deer hunting seasons to ad- Located in every county of roads. The maps will be available
vately owned; the state manages an dress concerns of CWD. The DNR the state, Michigan conservation online at michigan.gov/forestroads
estimated 4 million acres of public also provided additional staffed officers are first responders who and updated each spring.
forest. deer check locations as well as drop provide lifesaving operations in the Look for an early 2019 “Show-
The DNR also manages 360,000 boxes for hunters to submit their communities they serve. They are casing the DNR” story detailing the
acres of state game areas. At game harvested deer for testing. More fully commissioned state peace of- efforts to map state forest roads, a
areas throughout Michigan, DNR than 30,000 deer were checked and ficers who provide natural resources resource to help people get out and
staffers have been harvesting timber tested this year. protection, ensure recreational safe- enjoy Michigan’s public forests.
to create early successional forest The coming year will see contin- ty and protect citizens by enforcing The DNR’s work in providing
habitat. ued efforts to maintain the health of Michigan’s laws and regulations. GIS products and services gained
The selective cutting of mature Michigan’s deer herd. For the latest “A conservation officer has cho- national recognition at the annual
pine and aspen stands encourages information and updates on chronic sen to not only protect our people Esri User Conference, when the
the growth of young forests, which wasting disease, visit michigan.gov/ and local communities as first department earned a Special
provide vital habitat for ruffed cwd. responders – they have devoted their Achievement in GIS Award for its
grouse, American woodcock, deer, The DNR also keeps a close career to being front-line defenders innovative application of mapping,
elk and golden-winged warblers. eye on the health of Michigan’s of our natural resources,” said DNR data analytics and thought leader-
“This important work may look fish, working continuously with Law Enforcement Division Chief ship.
destructive while in progress, but Michigan State University’s Aquatic Gary Hagler. “Within the past 20 years, the
the result is outstanding habitat for Animal Health Lab to be at the As community first respond- DNR has implemented an enterprise
many game and non-game wildlife forefront of disease identification, ers, several conservation officers GIS system to support the grow-
species,” said DNR Wildlife Divi- but also regularly analyzing groups were involved in lifesaving actions ing needs and challenges of caring
sion Chief Russ Mason. of wild fish to test for diseases and during 2018, including saving a for Michigan’s natural resources
Late in 2018, in partnership with performing fish health inspections woman from drowning, rescuing and connecting the public to those
Pheasants Forever and the Hal and at state hatcheries and on hatchery- people involved in snowmobile and resources,” said Dave Forstat, DNR
Jean Glassen Foundation, the DNR reared fish. kayak accidents and those stranded GIS manager and chief data stew-
launched its new Adopt-A-Game- In 2018, the DNR’s Office of the in Lake Huron and on the edge of a ard.
Area program, which encourages Great Lakes completed restoration cliff overlooking Lake Superior. As “As web GIS has become more
individuals and organizations to of historical environmental impacts a result, eight conservation officers prevalent, we’ve leveraged the bene-
sponsor grassland habitat projects on the Menominee River, started the received the Michigan DNR Life- fits of increased communication and
on state-managed lands they use and Saginaw Bay Fish Reef restoration saving Award. data accuracy to provide customers
value. project and made strides in imple- The DNR Conservation Officer with the best possible data on trails,
“Grasslands give important menting goals established in the Academy graduated 24 new conser- water, minerals, trees, wildlife, fish
benefits to both wildlife and people. Michigan Water Strategy. vation officers in 2018. The new of- and other areas.”
In addition to providing habitat and The OGL staff also worked in ficers were selected from nearly 500 This includes online tools – like
food resources for many wildlife communities to protect coastal re- applicants to be a part of Recruit the Open Data Portal, interactive
species, grasslands also improve wa- sources, helped establish an alliance School No. 9 – the DNR’s 23-week maps, story maps and customized
ter and air quality,” said Al Stewart, of Great Lakes island communities training academy based in Lansing. apps – aimed at connecting outdoor
DNR upland game bird specialist. and facilitated the development of “Our division selects the most enthusiasts and natural resources
Stewart said grassland pollina- shared harbor visions in waterfront highly qualified candidates to professionals with the information
tors, like bees and monarch but- communities. receive additional training that no they need.
terflies, help to generate crops that As it has each year since its other law enforcement agency in the This is just a brief glimpse of a
keep the country fed. Throughout introduction in 2014, the Invasive state offers,” Hagler said. “Our of- year in the life of the DNR. More
Michigan, many grasslands are Species Grant Program – imple- ficers are molded into quality people information about the department’s
being converted to agriculture and mented by the Michigan depart- who are embedded within the com- broad range of work to ensure
development. Grasslands now are ments of Agriculture and Rural De- munities they serve.” healthy natural resources and out-
one of the rarest habitat types in the velopment, Environmental Quality As Michigan’s oldest statewide door recreation is available on the
world. and Natural Resources – provided law enforcement agency, the DNR DNR website, redesigned in 2018 to
Expanded support of this pro- roughly $3.6 million in 2018 for Law Enforcement Division contin- make it easier to use, at michigan.
gram, through sponsorships, will projects designed to prevent, detect, ues to expand its abilities to protect gov/dnr.n
Woods-N-Water News Classified Section
MISC. MISC. FISHING SPEARING HUNTING REAL ESTATE
AN ADJUSTABLE BED with LOG BUNK BEDS. $495. CANADA FISHING: ICE SAWS, complete line of TROPHY RANCH HUNT FOR SALE: Hunting, fish-
queen iComfort mattress included. Amish lodge furniture. Call Dan Want to go fishing? Come to spears, decoys, M/M & Bunny HOGS, Rams Longhorns, Big ing, trapping, camping on these
New in plastic, As Seen On TV. 989-832-1866. M-4-14-TFN Northern Walleye Lodge for boots, Pike Busters, the battery Lodge, Butcher Shop. Call for 63 acres in southern Sanilac
Cost $3,800. Sell for $975. 989- .............................................. Great Walleye, Small Mouth, powered decoy system and open dates and free tours. 989- Co. All pines and hardwoods
923-1278. M-3-18-TFN Northern, Jumbo Perch, Lake more. www.dream-outdoors. 658-8634. www.trophyranch. surrounding stream that runs
SERVICES
.............................................. Trout for 6 nights $450 U.S. per com 269-330-6422. 12-3 com. H-2-3 year-round through the proper-
A TEMPUR-PEDIC person with 4 or more. Includes ty. $255,000 call 810-712-1175.
M E M O RY FOAM remote lake front cabin with RE-2-2
MATTRESS SET. Clean. Never MS WHITETAIL HABITAT
own dock, 2 people per boat,
used. As seen on TV. Cost $1700. MANAGEMENT. I have a
15hp electric start Yamaha
GUNS REAL ESTATE
Sell for $695. 989-832-2401. M-4- unique background in forestry
and planning and I can create motors, fish finders and swivel
BERETTA SHOTGUNS – Ag-
14-TFN
.............................................. and implement a strategic manage- seats. Upgrade boats available.
Black bear hunts available.
ing hunter must downsize. A390 160 WOODED ACRES DOGS
AN AMISH LOG ment plan for your property. Visit Deluxe, $700; 686 Silver Pigeon WITH 900’ FURNISHED
MSWhitetailHabitatManagement. 3.5 hours North of Sault Ste.
HEADBOARD AND QUEEN I: 12 ga., NIB, $1,800; 20 ga., GC, CABIN IN IOSCO COUNTY
com or call 231-679-1294. S-12-6 Marie. See web site for specials NEAR EAST TAWAS. Cabin F.D.S.B. LLEWELLIN
pillowtop mattress set. New. Sell all lightly used, $1,500; 28-ga., LN,
and more info . . . has furnace and wood stove with ENGLISH SETTER
for $275. 989-923-1278. less than two boxes shot through
www.northernwalleyelodge.com well water, cell phone and internet PUPS BORN NOVEM-
it, $1700. Grand Rapids area. Cash
M-4-14-TFN
..............................................
WANTED email: fishingtrips@outlookcom
only, please. Call or text: 248-321- service available. Prime hunting, 2 BER 13, 2018. Excellent
Toll free 1-877-434-2440 ponds with Kunzy Creek running bloodlines. See us at www.
AMISH LOG BEDS, ANY 0475. G-1-2
TIMBER: Buying all types of tim- F-12/17TFN through the back of the property. gouldgundogs.com or call 989-
SIZE $199. 5 drawer log chest ..............................................
ber, 5 acres or more, top price paid. Lots of deer and other wildlife 550-8595. Assorted colors,
$199. Good quality. Lowest prices
Cash in advance. Improve wildlife including partridge, coyote, bobcat, close working, great tempera-
in Michigan. 989-839-4846. M-4- Subscribe Today!
14-TFN
habitat. Patco Forest Products, HUNTING coon and more. Also listed on Zillow ment, beauty, drive. Located in
..............................................
989-539-7588 after 6 p.m. W-11- (810) 724-0254 with many photos. Asking $289,000. the thumb of Michigan. D-2-1
12/18
ROOSTER RANCH - 989-225-0362. RE-2-3
great pheasant hunting, 15 ..............................................
THREE BEDROOM, 1.5 GERMAN SHORTHAIR
To reach an immense outdoor market use the . . . different farms! Excellent cover. POINTER PUPS: Males
Your dogs or ours. Field hunt or BATH, 2 STORY HOME, 2305
Woods-N-Water News Classified European style. Meals, lodg-

ing, dog training. Half, full or
sq. ft. on 28 picturesque acres in
Western Lenawee County MI.
and females available. Excel-
lent hunting dogs and superb
family pets. Close working
Classified ad rates: $30 for the first 20 words multi-day hunts. Open 7 days Large country kitchen. Appliances,
Every word over 20 is .25¢ per word -- Box your classified, $5 additional charge dining room, hardwood & ceramic dogs with strong point and
a week, now through April retrieve instincts. Reasonably
This effective advertising is simple to do, place your ad by . . . 30th. Any size group. Gift cer- floors, family room with fireplace.
• Calling 810-724-0254 Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm Barn with stables. Approx. 4.5 acre priced for the sporting family.
tificates available. Since 1986. Money back guarantee. Eulen-
• Email your ad to wnw@pageone-inc.com
roosterranch.com 989-658- pond, amazing garage on state
• Faxing your ad 810-724-8552 highway. Immediate Occupancy!! hof Kennels, Gladwin, MI.
• Complete your Classified online at www.woods-n-waternews.com 2332. H-11-TFN http://www.eulenhof.com
$239,900. Call Diana at Faust Real
• Mailing your ad to Woods-N-Water News, P.O. Box 278, Imlay City, MI 48444
Estate, LLC 517-270-3646. RE-2- 989-426-4884 D-1-3
Classifieds MUST be paid in advance of publishing; MasterCard, Visa accepted. Make RAY’S U.P. HUNTING – Over 1
check/money orders payable to Woods-N-Water News. Classified ads can not be 25 years experience guiding for ..............................................
billed and once a classified is processed no refunds can be made. Limit of 75 words. EXPECTING VALEN-
deer and bear. Baited stands in
TINE’S DAY LITTER
All classifieds posted to our website FREE! Amasa, Baraga, and Bergland PRIME HUNTING, 50 OF BLACK & WHITE
Units. Lodging Available. Call Ray ACRES, 40x70 barn with
Use one of these useful classified categories... at 906-265-9420 or cell 906-284-
TICKED AND LIVER &
heat, bathroom, shower. Bor- WHITE AND TICKED
A = Archery FP = Food Plots HW = Help Wanted SM = Snowmobiles 2216. Licensed and Insured. H-1-
ATV = ATVs FW = Firewood M = Miscellanous T = Taxidermy ders federal land. Near snow- GERMAIN SHORT-
B = Boats G = Guns RE = Real Estate TK = Trucks 12/19 mobile and ORV trails, garage HAIRED POINTER PUP-
D = Dogs H = Hunting RR = Resorts/Rent TR = Trailers .............................................. doors 14' high to back your PIES. Now taking deposits.
F = Fishing HL = Hunting Leases RVC = RV’s/Campers W = Wanted R.V. inside and enjoy northern
F = Free Outstanding family companion,
BEAR PAW TRAIL Michigan all year! $199,000.00 good with kids and great hunt-
MARCH 2019 CLASSIFIED DEADLINE FEBRUARY 4, 2019 CAMP NORTHERN ON- O.B.O. Call or text 989-329- ing dogs. Louis 734-770-6109.
TARIO. Excellent bear hunt- 1526, Ogemaw. RE-1-2 D-2-1
CLIP AND MAIL ing service. Baited stands,
Woods-N-Water News Classified Advertising preparation meat and hide for
you to take home. Average CAMPGROUNDS FOR
LABRADOR RETRIEV-
(Please print clearly. We are not responsible for unreadable orders.) SALE One in the U.P. with Great
Make sure phone number is included in your ad! size bear 200 pounds, we’ve ER PUPPIES READY
taken 500 pound bears before. Lake frontage $485K. One in North
NOW! Sire has master hunter
NAME $1200 U.S., $200 deposit, book Central Michigan $700K. Briggs
bloodline, mother of pups has
now for spring and fall. Over 25 Realty www.briggsrealtyonline.com
very calm nature - $1,000.00.
ADDRESS years of experience, call Willie 616-942-1071.
For more information call
705-369-2013, PO BOX 149 RE-2-1
Jonas Yoder at 517-543-7015.
CITY STATE ZIP Opasapika, Ontario Canada ..............................................
D-2-1
POL-1Z0 H-2-3 18.52 ACRE BEAUTIFULLY
DAYTIME PHONE NO. WOODED PARCEL primarily
wooded with mature White Pine and
VISA/MASTERCARD# EXP: ELK & DEER GUIDED
HUNTS 100% success, Northeast
Maple Trees. The terrain is essen-
tially gently rolling to very steep with Classifieds
CLASSIFICATION OF AD MONTHS TO RUN
work!
MI no license needed. Plus, great a ridge that has a 100 elevation
fishing for bass and bluegills, cabin drop which offers a tree-top valley

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) with boat and motor. Text or call view from the building site. A drive-
(7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)

989-493-2909. H-9-12/18
..............................................
way with a culvert leading to the
clearing that can be used for either
(810) 724-0254
Monday-
NORTHERN ONTARIO camping or building, electric and

(13) (14) (15) (16) (17) (18) telephone lines are underground at
BEAR HUNTS
the roadway. This parcel also fea-
Friday
GUARANTEED TAGS!
(19) (20) $30.00 $30.25 $30.50 $30.75 tures a second access to the lower
Booking now for spring of 2019.
Includes comfortable cabin, boat portion of the property and an addi-
9am-5pm
$31.00 $31.25 $31.50 $31.75 $32.00 $32.25 tional large clearing. This part of
and motor, baited stands. Very
experienced guides. High success the property is an ideal hunting spot
$32.50 $32.75 $33.00 $33.25 $33.50 $33.75 as the southern boundary has
rate. 3 hours from the Soo.
springs. Land Contract terms for
or try our
References on request. $1,650 U.S.
$34.00 $34.25 $34.50 $34.75 $35.00 $35.25
for single hunter, including taxes $59,900 with $2,000 down and
and non-resident bear license and $700 per month at 11% interest, no
website
$35.50 $35.75 $36.00 $36.25 $36.50 $36.75
tag. Cheaper rate for more than one balloon payment and no penalty for
Enclosed is $ for hunter. $650 deposit required. Call early payoff. www.northernlandco.
com Northern Land Company, 231-
woods-n-waternews.com
705-869-3272 www.texasandsons.
words to run months. BOX MY CLASSIFIED - $5 Extra com H-8-12/18 258-5100. RE-12-3
.............................................. ..............................................
Real
Estate
Serving Oscoda, Tawas City, East Tawas, Glennie, Mikado, Greenbush, Harrisville, and
surrounding areas in Iosco and Alcona Counties! Let us guide you to your new home!
River
Waterfront on
52 acres
Property borders Au
Sable River and the
bayou. 2,658 feet of river
frontage, 746 feet of
33 ACRES OF Pages
bayou. Monster Bucks
taken yearly. Steelhead
NATURES BEAUTY
and walleye holes right
from the shoreline,
fenced and gated at one
border with waterfront
on the other. You have to see to believe! 70% wooded in Iosco County.
84-89
$190,000 081-18-0061WW
Unique
Northern
Michigan 111 N Sylt Road
Hunting Camp Lake Leelanau, MI
VACANT LAND – 33 ACRES: Untouched
All seasons hunting hardwoods, flowering brush, ferns and
and sporting lodge wildflowers. Natural habitat to local
on 120 acres and wildlife, including whitetail deer,
fully surrounded by bobcat, turkey, rabbit, and grouse.
thousands of acres of Excellent hiking and hunting! Beautiful
Federal land. This is the landscape of hill and valley, lowland
only privately owned and highland, woods and clearing.
property in sec 32. 1,700 GREAT
square foot lodge built POTENTIAL:
in 1991 sits at 1,150 feet above sea level—the 3rd highest point in a wonderful
Alcona County. Spectacular view of the woods in the valley below. homestead,
86 feet of covered porch faces south and west for great sunsets. A hobby farm,
generator provides power for the whole house. The refrigerator, lights or ‘up north’
and cook stove are propane. Water collection system provides 1100 hunters
gallons of water to service house and full bathroom. Up to 20 people paradise!
$279,400
have slept in lodge at one time. 120 acres of hardwoods, pines and
poplar. Many 4-wheeler and snowmobile trails. The deer hunting is
great. Truly a one of a kind property in Alcona County! Possible land
contract with 1/2 down and 5 yr balloon. Carolyn Telgard
$289,900 081-18-0076WW Realtor
Cell: 231-642-7117
Affordable carolyn.telgard@cbgreatlakes.com
Waterfront
Atlanta, Michigan 599-18-0060 - 1 bedroom; 1 bath; 1 story;
Home 1500 sq ft. This is a unique piece of property! 40 acres with state
Great cottage on Lake land on 3 sides and an 800 acre hunt club on the north border. There
Huron! Like the one is a 50 x 100 solid built pole barn with a 1500 sq ft self sufficient
you visited growing up home built inside, which is run on solar, and an LP generator and it
has a flowing well. There is a well maintained apple orchard that is
that Mom or Grandma fenced. Beautifully wooded property with a building site that has
owned. Get your slice an additional 1000 gal septic tank that will allow for a lodge looking
of paradise for little over the Blue Ribbon Trout Stream, the Gilchrist Creek of which there
is over 1000 feet of frontage. The Gilchrist Creek and the Greasy
$$ in Alcona County.
Creek meet on this property. There are 5 deer blinds set up for your
Open layout, 2 bedrooms, large sunroom. hunting pleasure. This property has produced numerous Big Bucks.
$110,000 081-18-0081WW The property also holds ample wildlife such as deer, bear, turkey,
partridge, bobcat, rabbits.... Don’t miss out on this one! $239,900
WWW.LIGHTHOUSEREALTYOSCODA.COM 12631 State St., P.O. Box 663
335 S State St, Oscoda, MI 48750 Atlanta, MI 49709
989-739-2050 989-785- 2600 aerorealestate.usa.mls.com
15+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
& 70+ MILLION IN
MICHIGAN LAND SALES
52+ Acres, Benzie County,

Alcona/Alpeana County, Arenac County, Au Gres, 773.42 Acres, Near Interlochen and Traverse City,
408+/- Acres, Incredible Retreat, Arenac County, 40-acre parcel has Arenac Co, 167+/- Acres, 3,500+/- ft Whitetail Paradise, Road/Trail System, Great Road Frontage, Beautiful Calhoun County, 74 Acres,
3 Lodges, Large Pole Barn, Beaver over 550 ft. of frontage on Lake Huron, 6 Bedroom Lodge, Guest Large Pond, 10 Gun Shacks, Build Spots, Great Hunting, 1/2 Tillable ,1/2 Wooded,
Creek Frontage, Tons of Wildlife Lake Huron/Saginaw Bay. Cabin, Great Duck & Deer Hunting. Awesome Deer Hunting Property. Nation Forest Adjoins Property! Trophy Buck Genetics
$1,400,000 $185,000 $550,000 $1,850/Acre $99,000 $275,000
Jackson County 38.14 Acres,

Calhoun County, 67+/- Acres Calhoun County, 80 Acres, Big Buck Gladwin, 142 Acres, Isabella County, 80+/- Acres, Duck Log Home/Cabin, Tillable, Jackson County, 105+/- Acres, WRP
300 ft. All Sports Prairie Lake, County, Lots of Deer Sign, Fully furnished Deer Ranch. and Deer Hunter’s Paradise, Over Timber Value, and 30 year old Program, Mature Hardwoods, Great
Tillable Acreage Oak Ridges, Rolling Hills. The Rack Ranch a mile of Pony River Frontage. Walnut Timber Stands! Deer, Turkey & Waterfowl Hunting
$275,000 $275,000 $835,000 $160,000 $255,000 $199,000
I NG 6+ Acres, Mis-
ND
saukee County,
P E Secluded 34’x16’
Pole Barn - Deer
Camp! This is a
MUST SEE with
an incredible
track record of
Jackson County, 537 +/- Acres, harvesting
Excellent Duck, Deer & Turkey Hunting. Lake County, 7 Acres, Little Manistee Lapeer, 102 Acres, This property offers 40+/- Acres Mecosta, Fenced Midland County, 80 Acres MATURE
Area of Other Large Property Owners. River Frontage, Cozy Cabin, room for multiple building sites and is in pastureland and pond. Perfect for 12 Miles to Mount Pleasant, Whitetails!
“Man Cave” w/Game Cleaning Station. Great Hunting and Fishing just 3 Miles from the city of Lapeer. equestrians and cattle owners! Excellent Hunting Price Right!!
$1,074,000 $125,000 $340,000 $97,900 $176,000 $55,000
38 Acres, Newaygo County, 80 Acres, Newaygo County, Newaygo County, 88 Acres, 2100 ft. Oceana County, 67 Acres, Great Deer
Newaygo County 4+/- Acres White Cloud Cabin/Home, Five Food Plots, Mature Timber Value, Pristine Muskegon River frontage. Newaygo County, 125 Acres, Three and Turkey Hunting, Tillable,
Muskegon Riverfront, New cabin, Mile Creek Frontage, Deer, Loaded With Deer And Turkey, Excellent hunting. spring fed lakes, Excellent Deer, Thick Forest Floor, Food Plots, Pond,
Beautiful landscaping, Secluded woods. Bear, Turkey, and Seclusion! Economically Price! Fully furnished living quarters. Turkey and Waterfowl hunting Hunting Shack and Pole Barn.
$220,000 $169,000 $160,000 $575,000 $349,500 $159,000
I NG
END
P
Osceola County, Evart, 278 Acres, Presque Isle County, 1,500 Acres, Roscommon County, 480+/- Acres,
Osceola County, 120 Acres, Trail Osceola County, LeRoy Twp, Osceola County, 163+/- Acres, Great Major Deer Sign, Multiple Food Plots, High Fence Deer Ranch, 50,000+ sq. ft. High Fence Deer Rach, First Class
System, Near Reed City, Tons of 141 +/- Acres, Easy access Trail System, Awesome Hunting, Rolling Terrain,. Thick Bedding Cover, lodge, rolling hills, caretakers Lodge and House, 120’x60’ Pole Barn,
Deer and Turkey Sign, Food plot areas to US-131, Large Pond Rolling Hills, Must See! Near State Land, Great Deer History. house, and pole barn. Quality Deer Herd.
$255,000 $211,500 $245,000 $517,000 $6,400,000 $2,900,000
SELL YOUR PROPERTY WITH US!

BLAKE VER WOERT: 616-308-3122
JAKE DYKSTRA: 616-916-8354
CURT BRYAN: 616-745-2759 WWW.WILDLIFEREALTY.COM
223 W. Main, Edmore MI 48829
www.eaglerealtymi.com
888.967.4140
LAKE ISABELLA: Cute 2009 Built Ranch w/
lots of storage. Includes deeded lake access to
Lake Isabella. MLS#18043948 - $218,000
TUBBS LAKE: Mobile Home w/75 Ft. of Private

Channel Frontage to Martiny Chain of Lakes in
Mecosta County. MLS#18031555 - $59,900
EDMORE: Doublewide on Sixth Lake. This larger ranch home

sits on an acre with channel/lake frontage. Great fishing and
you will be one of only a few with access. POLEBARN. $159,900
LEROY: 2010 Built 4 Bedroom Ranch home on the

Eastern shore of McCoy Lake in Osceola County.
60 Ft. of Water Frontage. MLS#18041901 - $98,900
BARRYTON: A total of 4 lots (one waterfront) come

with this seasonal cottage w/67 Ft. of Frontage to
Martiny Chain of Lakes. MLS#18034651 - $59,900
BASS LAKE MONTCALM COUNTY: Multiple lakefront and

lake access parcels owned by one of the original developers
of the area. Go to www.EagleRealtyMi.com for more detail.
VESTABURG: Log Cabin Cottage on shaded East bank

of all sports Rock Lake. Enjoy the beautiful panoramic
view of the lake. +Back Lot. MLS#18046701 - $117,500
EAGLE REALTY REALTORS® DO NOT CHARGE NO
ADMIN FEES OR MAINTENANCE FEES.
CALL US TODAY “WE WILL WORK FOR YOU”
Thinking of Buying or Selling?
CALL BRANDON | BROKER, LAND SPECIALIST (office) 269.357.7036 or (cell) 269.816.3010

MOSSYOAKPROPERTIES.COM
ALLY ING IV
E ING ICE ED
STICUCED LIST T LIST PR UC
R A
D ED NEW AC NEW D
R RE
Cass County Branch County Berrien County

Barry County 67.6 +/- acres 80.31+/- acres 94 +/- acres
99.6 +/- acres List Price $258,400 - An List Price $649,000 - List Price $279,000 - 94 +/- Ontonagon County
List Price $549,000 - exceptional mixed use 67.6+/- 40+ acres are tillable, acres of primarily wooded 80 +/- acres
Beautiful cabin parcel of ground in Cass County, woods, a pond, and EXCELLENT hunting property List Price $124,900 -
overlooking a spring Michigan with EXCELLENT a 4 Bed 2 full bath in Berrien County, Michigan Wooded acreage in the
fed fish pond on Hunting, potential building home with 2900 sq.ft. just South of I94, and directly Western Upper Peninsula
rolling wooded sites, and tillable ground of living space, and across the road from Point O’ with beautiful turn key
acreage generating farm rent yearly outbuildings Woods Golf Course D-style log cabin
EACH MOSSY OAK PROPERTIES OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

WEST BRANCH HALE WEST BRANCH
R S ALE R S ALE
M-33/M-55 OFFICE F O OFFICE F O LOOP OFFICE
1953 S. M-33 3160 North M-65 2575 S. I-75 Business Loop,
West Branch, MI 48661 Hale, MI 48739 West Branch, MI 48661
10 miles north of I-75 exit 202 “Gateway to Huron National Forest” 1 mile north of I-75 Exit 212
Local: 989-345-2662 Local: 989-728-2540 Local: 989-345-0315

Toll Free: 800-535-6520 www.CAHANES.com Toll Free: 800-495-2540 www.CAHANES.com Toll Free: 866-345-0315
“UP NORTH” HOMES AND COTTAGES
LITTLE CLEAR LAKE!! OVER 3000 SQUARE FEET!! WELL-MAINTAINED!! AN ACRE OF PROPERTY!! 20 ACRES!!
Lovely 3-bdrm, 2 bath home that is move-in ready w/little This spacious 4-bdrm, 2.7 bath home is beautiful & well- Move-in ready 4-bdrm ranch-style home on 30 ACRES, Updated 3-bdrm on full bsmt w/laminate floors, newer 3-bdrm home on full basement with garage!! Some
updates needed and 90 feet of canal frontage leading to maintained. So many fantastic amenities, full walkout w/garage, full walkout bsmt, 9x11 bonus room or office, stainless steel appliances, family room, maintenance- recent updates include updates to kitchen and
30 acre private lake! Open floor plan, newer appliances, bsmt, 2.5 ACRES, finished garage, large deck, privacy family room, master suite, deck, porch and beautiful free lighted Trex decking, newer windows, newer doors & bath. Outside there is a large covered deck w/
master suite, 31x15 deck with fantastic lake views!! fence, tasteful landscaping & above ground pool!! wooded views of property and your very own pond!! newer siding and a 30x24 garage plus shed for storage!! beautiful views and trails for walking or the hunter!!
$59,900 1853977 $199,900 1837404 $167,900 1853504 $134,900 1850717 $154,900 1840412
FANTASTIC LOCATION!! WELL-INSULATED!! AMISH REMODELED!! 6.41 ROLLING ACRES!! 2.36 ACRES!!
This 2-bdrm home with attached garage sits on AN ACRE Nice 3-bdrm home located in great recreational area near Gorgeous 3-bdrm w/custom cabinets, mobile Beautiful 3-bdrm, 2 full bath home with great Spacious brick and vinyl 2-bdrm home with 1674 square
of property and is just a short distance to all sports Lake many lakes and state land! Would make the perfect year kitchen island, Amish built furnishings, FP, 2 room, AC, FP, master suite, garage, 3 sea- feet of living space, formal dining, some appliances, family
George. Has wood flooring, large front deck, full base- round home or an excellent weekend or vacation getaway! covered porches, oversized garage and all NES- son room, outdoor gazebo & stocked ponds room w/its own entrance, huge 72x39 heated 5-car garage
ment, paved driveway and a second 24x28 garage!! Large fenced yard for your pets & deck for relaxing!! TLED ON 20 ACRES w/groomed trails & 4 blinds!! w/artesian wells!! plus 24x32 pole bldg, both wired for electric & much more!
$69,000 1844224 $59,900 1851030 $249,900 1855393 $139,900 1848506 $134,900 1848848
WEST BRANCH OF RIFLE RIVER!! BEAUTIFUL LAKEFRONT!! ACROSS FROM NAT’L FOREST!! 38.84 ACRES!! COZY GETAWAY!!
Beautiful 4-bdrm, 3 bath home on 10 ACRES!! Over SPACIOUS CUSTOM BUILT 3-bdrm, 3 bath This 3-bdrm home sits on a deep lot with some shade Immaculate ranch-style manufactured home w/3-bdrms, 2 2-bdrm home on two lots w/garage that has
500’ of frontage on the gorgeous Rifle River for excel- home, large lot, full walkout bsmt, garage, trees and has been freshly painted. On almost an acre full bath, open floor plan, formal dining, mudroom, master finished heated upstairs! Located in great
lent fishing and kayaking. So many great amenities, open floor plan, wood floors, AC, gorgeous of land and located in great recreational area and not suite, 30x40 garage and more. This property would also recreational area and has vinyl windows,
including 2 garages! A must see home and property!! kitchen, master suite & so much more!! far from lakes. Exterior of home does need some TLC!! make a great place for a hunting club or church retreat!! covered & enclosed porches & more!!
$339,500 1852070 $232,500 1854973 $45,900 1848661 $176,000 1851925 $27,900 1855290
ACROSS FROM LAKE!! SPACIOUS CHALET!! LOTS OF UPDATES!! 1.25 ACRES!! LARGE DOUBLE LOT!!
Well-maintained 2-bdrm home with a beautiful view of Over 2300 square feet of living space, 3-bdrm, 2 full bath Nice 3, possible 4, bdrm home on OVER 1/2 ACRE, w/ga- Affordable 2-bdrm, 2 bath home w/large rooms, appliances, Cute 3-bedroom, vertical log home in great
all sports RIFLE LAKE and just across the road from 20 and 4-car garage. Home has beautiful views from multiple rage, newer metal roof, remodeled bath, newer windows, lots of kitchen cabinets, generator, 16x14 sunroom, paved recreational area not far from lakes and State
foot access spot! Spacious living area, hickory cabinets, decks & is located in great subd w/access to 2 all sports newer well, laminate floors, gas log FP, appliances, snack circular drive, breezeway from home to 24x24 garge, newer lands. Wood stove, garage, screened porch
knotty pine interior, carport, deck, covered porch & more!! lakes, golf course, tennis courts, trails, camping & more!! bar area, large yard w/fire pit & 3 miles from town!! windows & newer roof & you can walk to State land!! and mostly furnished!!
$79,500 1847245 $143,900 1846541 $79,900 1853056 $49,900 1849274 $49,900 1850311
WATERFRONT LOTS AND WATERFRONT ACREAGE
1.9 ACRES!! BEAUTIFUL WATERFRONT!! RIFLE RIVER!! EXCELLENT FISHING!! 9.82 ACRES!!
Beautiful wooded property with frontage on Nice partly wooded lot with vegetation to wa- Mostly cleared lot with some shade trees and Nice lot with frontage on the beautiful Rifle Great hunting acreage with property fronting
Turtle Lake, an 8 acre small fishing lake. ter’s edge and 80” of frontage on private “no gorgeous views of the Rifle River. Great spot River and fantastic views or potential site for on Nester Creek and a perfect spot for your
Also not too far from many other all sports motor” Fawn Lake. Also near other lakes and for excellent fishing, kayaking and canoeing building your new home or vacation or week- home or hunt cabin. Electric at road with a
lakes and near State lands!! the beautiful Rifle River!! and potential site for building!! end retreat. Adjacent lot also for sale!! driveway and shed already at the property!!
$14,900 1835692 $15,900 1850114 $22,900 1843574 $22,900 1843577 $35,000 1851406
ELBOW LAKE!! BEAUTIFUL LAKEFRONT LOTS!! SUPER SUBDIVISION!! 2.4 ACRES!! PLEASANT LAKEFRONT LOT!!
Nice waterfront lot and a fantastic spot for Over a half acre of waterfront property front- Almost 3 ACRES, with 250+ feet of water Nice property with frontage on Ogemaw Nice property and potential site for building
building your dream home or vacation get- ing on popular, all sports Lake Ogemaw with frontage on Ogemaw Creek. Located in great Creek and in super subdivision with many your new home or vacation or weekend get-
away with 94 feet of frontage on 42 acre all gentle slope to water. Located in fantastic area and in subdivision with many fantastic nice amenities like natural gas and municipal away in great subdivision and with frontage
sports lake. Elec at road!! subd & potential bldg site!! amenities!! well & sewer and great spot for bldg!! on FLOWAGE LAKE!!
$54,900 1846598 $69,900 1790612 $76,000 1855915 $81,000 1855918 $101,000 1763735
FOR MORE LISTINGS

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.CAHANES.COM
YOOPER SPECIAL!
15 ACRE FARM. Well maintained 1500 sf, 3 28 ACRES ADJ. STATE LAND! Remodeled with
bedroom home with a full basement. 28x160 BH&G style décor. Over 2100 sf featuring 4 bed-
pole barn w/workshop, concrete floors and rooms and 3 full bathrooms. Stone fireplace, all
12’ doors plus a 40x100 storage barn. Land seasons sun room, stone & stained-glass accents!
is open and tillable with a 1+ acre pond. Includes a 30x40 pole barn with a sauna and
Great deer, duck, goose & turkey hunting. 28x32 man cave-studio w/an 8’ covered patio.
Splits available. $184,900 #316893 Great hunting!! $236,000 #316334 (Cheboygan)
E6809 E SANDENE • IRONWOOD TWP 49911

80 Wooded Hunting Acres Renovated
GRAYLING LOG HOME ON 17 ACRES! Nearly 3000 149 SECLUDED ACRES! Trail roads, 11 estab-
4 Bdrm, 2 Full Bath, 2200 Sq Ft. Farm House. sf of living space, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, finished walk lished blinds, small clearings for food plots, trail
PRICE REDUCED $279,900 out basement w/family room & 2nd kitchen, wrap
around deck, 3-1/2 car garage w/heated workshop,
roads and a creek. Nicely wooded with a mix
of evergreens & hardwood, mostly high ground.
1 car storage garage, RV station w all hook-ups. Ex- Abundant game. Close to Hammond Bay Har-
cellent hunting! $329,500 #313950 bor. $159,000 #313641 (Millersburg area)
Near W
N
3,960 ft
Marlette S
in Sanilac 121
County Acres
$ LOG HOME ON 15 WOODED ACRES. 13 ACRES W/PRIVATE LAKE & 380’
326,700 All the bells & whistles! 2 baths, stone ON THE OCQUEOC RIVER. Beauti-
40 acres of Hunting Bliss. Ranch home OR fireplace, covered porch, 2 side decks, ful rolling parcel in a secluded setting.
with a full walk out basement, 3 bedrooms, Will $ private setting, 2 ponds, a 2.5 garage There’s a small cabin roughed in, a hunt-
2 full baths, gourmet kitchen. All season consider 2,700 per acre with finished/heated workshop and ing blind overlooking the lake with its own
2nd floor PLUS a 30x50 pole barn too! deck, a well and electric hook ups for your
Sun room with separate entrance. Attached 1,320 ft $188,800 #300943 (Millersburg) camper. Fantastic hunting. $99,900
all offers.
3 car garage plus a 32’ X 48’ Pole Barn (can RE/MAX NORTH
fit 2 semi trucks) 14 ft doors. Deer, rabbit Carol Steiger, Associate Broker
& turkey are bountiful. There also is a small (231) 627-9991 Office
pond and swamp area on the property. (989) 351-0110 Cell
Hunters Paradise is at 2152 Five Lakes Rd, email: carol.steiger@remax.net
846 S. Main, Cheboygan, MI
Metamora, MI 48455 $460,000 www.liveupnorth.com

APPROX. 186 RANDY MINTO
NEW
250 DEER
ACRES Always Working Hard for You!
REALTOR
SANILAC COUNTY APPROX. 100 ELK Direct:
Amazing Applegate Hunting Preserve! 1/2 Million+ 810.449.1286 170 ACRES GENESEE COUNTY
Dollars Worth Deer/Elk Inventory Included in Sale. - OR - Amazing Ranch Home & Guest House,
Ranch Home & Lodge - Several Outbuildings Office:
Private Lake
*DV 810.653.4500
$1,250,000 *DV $1,650,000
SPECIALIZING IN UNIQUE, LUXURY AND LARGE RECREATIONAL PROPERTIES
DEER & NATURE LOVER’S DREAM PROPERTIES
NE LAPEER COUNTY 66 ACRES 370 ACRES

W
Beautiful Banquet Hall 10,000 SQ FT Fantastic Development Opportunity. Drummond Island - Cabin
Tuscola County Engineered Drawings Available & Cottage on Lake Huron
*DV $299,500 $419,000 $949,000
*DV *DV
COMMERCIAL BUSINESS/LAND
TUSCOLA COUNTY
LDCLUB
PARADICE HUNT
NEW
10 ACRES
SO
4.36 ACRES
$3,950,000
LAPEER COUNTY
Excellent Commercial New Construction, 2000 sq ft Open Floor
Landscape Business building site Plan, 4 BD, 2.5 BA, Covered porch
$129,500 *DV $49,500 *DV $309,000
1,120 ACRES
LAPEER COUNTY
OGEMAW & ROSCOMMON
COUNTIES
N D I N G CLARE COUNTY
PE
192 ACRES 60+/- ACRES
Beautifully renovated historic Victorian Bed Deer Hunter’s Dream Property, Multiple Cabin & 2 Mobile Homes,
and Breakfast with horse facilities. lodges-Homes-Pole Barns, 2 Private Lakes 1 Mile+/- on Muskegon River
*DV $1,490,000 *DV 15 Miles of trails, 11 heated Blinds *DV $149,000
NEW NEW
GENESEE COUNTY 36 ACRES
NEW
SANILAC COUNTY
GENESEE COUNTY
6 ACRES
5 Pole Barns, 2-Story Home, 55 acres + 38 Bonus Hunting acres,
Beautiful Home, Private Lake Great Business Opportunity Gorgeous Home plus Hunting cabin
*DV $425,000 *DV $450,000 *DV $459,000
30 ACRES LAPEER COUNTY 289 ACRES
SANILAC COUNTY 5-8 ACRES LUCE COUNTY

Deer Hunters Dream Property Great Building sites 1,800 SQFT Cabin, Completely Solar
Commercial Properties in Davison 700 acres of state land From $69,900 to powered, 90% Wooded
*DV $85,000 - $595,000 $119,000 *DV $89,900 *DV $349,000
D
SOL ACRES
24 LICENSED DEER RANCH SANILAC COUNTY
PRICE
REDU
TUSCOLA COUNTY 34 ACRES 60-80 DEER CED
Log Home, Pond, 30x40
GENESEE COUNTY 10-15 TROPHY BUCKS 40 ACRES
10 Acres+/- Pole Barn, Watertown Woodland Deer Ranch in Davison, 6-car garage, Gorgeous 3270 Sq Ft Ranch with
St. Clair County Township pond, 5 blinds, 3 lg feeders, Lg polebarn, 4BD, 3BA loft, built 2011, 2 Pole Barns.
*DV $139,900 *DV $249,900 *DV $849,900 *DV $399,000
DRONE
*DV VIDEO GO TO: MIDREAMPROPERTIES.com
OR CALL 810-449-1286
GET IT! There’s only one place to get the best in
outdoor news, information and entertainment!
$4.00 JULY 2015
ews Woods-N
JANUARY 2016 $4.00
JUNE 2015
d s- -Water N -Wat Woods-

ER 20
1 5
N-Water News
$4.00
Woo
Woods-N-Water News OCTOB
er News
$4.00
N n ’s Prem
ier Ou
tdoor
Public
ation
2014
Michig
an’s P
rem ier Ou
a
Michigan’s Premier Outdoor Publication tdo
Michig or Pu
blicat
WALLEYE
ion
S li p p in ’ in ’
k
WISDOM And Chuc
Small STEELIES he
Stream Get Ready
For T CHRONIC
DISEASE FWOASTING
RUTG!
Bo n
Sandi Larry Kreps Jr.
BUo
LaFountain Crossbow
CKeSr 2015 BUCKS

Crossbow
in g s .. .
UND!
h
To S ta r t T
Rattle
ROCKIN Game Warren Walton
& S m a ll
IEW Sweet
Muzzleloader
Grunt 2 0 1 5 B ig
I N G P R E V Plus...
Wheeze HUNT Improve Lake
e a n s .. .
Smallies • Coyotes Close
TROUT
• Gogebic Perch
DEER TALK M ic h ig a n ’s
F a ll A ls o M
US K I ES Productivity Sandi
LaFountain
Cory
Williamson • Icy Hotspots
M
ne
No-Fly Zoogs
BIG
Shotgun Rifle
bl e? • Duc• k-
Grea t La
Th e D
lth P os si ut ke s
ll A•boTh StorTryifecta • Proj
• Is 10 0% Stea Dinners • It’s A Su cc e Ms-1 Whi
es ect Apples • Killer Moves For Steelies • Sizzling Cottontail Hunting • Handling Your Fish
tetail
• U.P. To Close Deer Season? • Walleyes For Warriors • Engraving A Legacy Stay Safe ent • Good Fish w anoada Goose • Staying eed •
on• MoreRifle • Embracing The Jig Pitching • Beaver
• Heat Loss Mechanisms • Modern Ice Fishing Electronics • Seasonal Memories
Ways To em gan’wswC.w ods-n-wFaollow Housoked
• Bear Hunters Short Changed • Swim Jigs For Bass -- Work! • Harnessing The Bite• 5 oodcock Manag y Bass • Michi k ternews Food Plot O Po
Tips • Trai ther Side • Crankb nd Brookies
• The Ned Rig • Bowhunting The Gun Opener • Deer Stories • Muskie Plants
• W ’s H un gr c eb o o .c om • Lik l Cam Phot aits le
• Food Plots That Can Compete With ‘Mother Nature’ • Manistee Trout • October • L ik e us on fa e us on o of A Mis Ruwww.woods-n-waternews.com
July • Like us on facebook Follow us on
www.woods-n-waternews.com • Like us on facebook Follow us on ws.com fa cebook se d Opportu
ods-n -waterne Fo
ollow us
nity!
www.wo on
Woods-N-Water News
 New Subscription  Renewal
(Please attach mailing label)
 One year $29  Two years $55

NAME  Check/Money Order  Visa/Mastercard
Card # Exp. Date
ADDRESS
Send to: Woods-N-Water News
P.O. Box 278 • Imlay City, MI 48444
CITY Or Call (810) 724-0254
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
STATE ZIP Date Ck# $

SPECIAL PACKAGE PRICING
FOR THE BOAT SHOW!
Angler Qwest Angler Qwest Angler Qwest

824 Pro Troll, 824 Family Fish, 822 Pro Fish,
200 hp four-stroke and Trailer 200 hp four-stroke and Trailer 150 Suzuki and Trailer
Holding Power
Retrievability • Durability The Chene Anchor
201 Industrial Way, Fenton, MI • 517-202-2949
or available at...
THE KNOWLEDGEABLE BOATERS A BETTER
SPORTS
CENTER
BEST CHOICE MOUSE TRAP
Visit us at www.freeway-sports.com for a complete listing of boats!
FULL SERVICE PARTS & ACCESSORIES
Service Department • Indoor & Outdoor Storage
(810) 629-2291 Hours: FLINT FREEWAY
SPORTS CENTER
SPORTS
3241 Thompson Rd. Mon.-Fri. 9am - 6pm EXIT 84
59

FENTON
CENTER
Sat. 9am - 5pm
PONTIAC
Fenton, MI 48430
23
w w w. f r e e w a y - s p o r t s . c o m
Closed Sunday's
96
Exit 84 on US-23 ANN ARBOR DETROIT sales@freeway-sports.com
Full Line of Galco
Holsters In Stock!
Proudly made in the USA since 1969.
31516 Harper Avenue
Michi-GUN
Available at: Layaways Welcome
St. Clair Shores, MI 48082
Phone (586) 296-2360
Fax (586) 264-8307
STORE HOURS: 
Mon. - Fri: 10am-7pm;
Sat: 10am-4pm; Closed Sunday www.michigunandtackle.com

02 19

Uploaded by

Copyright:

02 19

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

02 19

Uploaded by

Copyright:

FEBRUARY 2019 $4.

Escort Xtreme Magnum

WE STOCK THE BEST BOW BRANDS!

All Scent•Lok Apparel

2208 W. M-43 Hwy.,

115 Mercury & 9.9 Pro Kicker 60 Mercury

2019 1875 2019 2019 1875

115 Mercury 200 Mercury 150 Mercury

2000 2019 1675 2019 1625

115 Mercury 60 Mercury 115 Mercury

DON’T WAIT! SELECTION GOING FAST!!

Lake sturgeon season on Black Lake

Be prepared for winter The U.P. fight Dog Training...

Winter Goose-Kenny Darwin...page 12 www.woods-n-waternews.com

Walleyes-Kenny Darwin...page 42 www.woods-n-waternews.com • Like us on facebook Follow us on

Subscribe Today and Enjoy Michigan’s Best Outdoor Publication

 Check/Money Order  Visa/Mastercard

Card# Exp. Date

Spring Fever Boat Sales Event

FIVE YEARS COVERAGE ON ALL NEW OUTBOARDS!

www.DandRSports.com | 8178 West Main St., Kalamazoo, MI 49009 | (269) 372-2277

Running Rough Water

"Fly into the Arctic

Call Toll Free: 24 HR ELECTRICITY (GENERATOR)

Our hunts are in a heavily forested area,

800-756-5459 21948 US 23N

The Saturday before Thanksgiving

If you’re fishing for smelt this

22 FEBRUARY 2019 WNW NEWS

WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2019 23

“Hunt your PASSION, not a price point!”

Whether hunting for your passion or making

28 FEBRUARY 2019 WNW NEWS

Randy’s Hunting Center

VALID TIL 12/31/2016

OXFORD Must present ad to M

(ONE SERVICE VISIT)

Ruger models in 450 Bushmaster

Bad Axe, MI 48413

JOE THOMAS PRO SERIES ROOSTER TAIL

FOR BASS Classic Rooster Tail w/HD

Save big when you bundle a Mahindra tractor with

9,600 $or 0% INTEREST

SMITH TRACTOR SMITH TRACTOR 231-825-2416

0000 Street Name .Town Name

Find your escape.

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS YOU NEED TO ASK

# How many years have they

2019 BOOT CAMP DATES

• February 8-9 • April 5-6 • May 10-11

TONY HAS BEEN CONSISTENT FOR 31 YEARS ON TROPHY CLASS WHITETAILS,

State forest road inventory completed

Tawas Point THE ULTIMATE WOOD HEAT

AuSable Brand “Superior” Two Handled

Darton Terminator II Special

• Trigger-forward design enhances balance for steady shooting

WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2019 39

William Clayton of Salem ‘loves hunting in Michigan!’ He

WNW NEWS FEBRUARY 2019 41

for TX-44, TX-22 &

attaches to the Walleye Board, TX-44

Celebrating Michigan’s 12 MILE RD .

Adults $10; Children (6-14) $4; 5 & Under Free