Hmmm. this may turn out to be interesting….

From this article posted at New West Travel & Outdoors:

Cabela’s Desecrating its Own Brand

By Bill Schneider, 11-22-07

It has taken Cabela’s a long time to move into Montana, but now that iconic retailer of hunting and fishing goods finally has a stake in the sand down in Billings, it might be wondering if it was the right decision.

Cabela’s has become accustomed to being revered by hunters and anglers, but in Montana, many sportsmen and women now have the opposite attitude, disdain-and they’re sending back their catalogs with promises never to spend another penny there. When opening a new store, Cabela’s expects the local hunters and anglers who have lusted for years to have a store nearby to more or less knell on the doorstep, but if Cabela’s doesn’t stop endorsing the loss of public hunting, the corporate VIPs might see people picketing the Billings store opening with anti-Cabela’s placards.

Here’s the rub. Back in June 2004, Cabela’s went public and is now listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol CAB. Such initial public offerings are always accompanied by plans on how to use all the new money for aggressive growth. And sure enough, Cabela’s launched into a major expansion, which primarily involving more and faster store openings.

No problem so far, the more and faster the better as far as I’m concerned, but a small part of that growth plan, a real estate marketing division called Cabela’s Trophy Properties might hurt Cabela’s bottom line and stock performance (already down to about half of its opening price) more than it helps. In Montana, the ruckus over the real estate division has already tarnished the best brand in the business, and it looks like it could get much worse and spread to other states.

I personally don’t want to see this happen because I’m one of those who grew up revering Cabela’s. I’d probably live in a Cabela’s store if they’d let me-at least for a few days until I had to leave to file for bankruptcy. And I bet the company’s brass and shareholders want to prevent damage to their brand even more than I do. If so, they need to act quickly and decisively instead of doing what they’re doing right now, which is seriously underestimating the potential of the problem.

The controversy erupted when Cabela’s Trophy Properties opened an office in Montana and started listing what the Montana Wildlife Federation (MWF), the state’s largest group of hunters and anglers, calls “traditional public hunting properties.” Those listings shot up a warning flare to the MWF’s 7,000 members, and the result was a strongly worded letter from executive director Craig Sharpe going to Dennis Highby, president & CEO of Cabela’s. In the letter, Sharpe warned of a “strong response” to the real estate marketing, such as mailing back or burning catalogs, unless Cabela’s addressed the group’s concerns and agreed to a meeting to discuss the issues.

A flash point in the controversy was the sale, planned subdivision and eventual closure to public hunting of two large ranches in central Montana by Cabela’s Trophy Properties. “Is this in line with Cabela’s mission?” Sharpe asked in his letter.

Read the entire story at the link above

Just when I was starting to build momentum again…. arrggghhhh

Anyway, unexpectedly, I have to move this weekend. Preparations started on Wednesday. We’ll be out by Saturday or Sunday. This was unplanned, and we’ll be in temporary housing until just after Christmas. I don’t anticipate having much internet access until the New Year.

I have access at work, but there I’m supposed to be umm… you know….. working.

Happy Holiday everyone!

I’ll do what I can.

From a USFWS press release.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today released the complete 2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation. The report serves as the baseline for examining how Americans are spending their time and money outdoors.

The National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation has been conducted every five years since 1955 and is one of the nation’s most important wildlife-related recreation databases. It is considered to be the definitive source of information concerning participation and expenditures associated with hunting, fishing and other forms of wildlife-related recreation nationwide.

The 2006 survey shows that 87.5 million U.S. residents 16 years and older participated in wildlife-related recreation – a 6 percent increase from 2001. The number of hunters and anglers fell from 37.8 million in 2001 to 33.9 million in 2006. The most recent survey also showed an 8 percent increase in the number of wildlife-watchers since 2001 but little change in total expenditures for that activity. This report provides a broader and more in-depth look at the data than the Preliminary Findings report issued in May 2007.

The full survey – and additional reports and earlier surveys – can be downloaded at: http://federalasst.fws.gov/surveys/surveys.html

I have my own theories, but I would be interested in hearing thoughts on why our numbers are dwindling….

Morons. Idiots like this are working as fast to end our right to hunt as the antis are. The public does not understand that these are not hunters.

From AZGF

Leads sought to solve vandalism incident near Klondyke

The Arizona Game and Fish Department is seeking the public’s help to identify the culprit who wantonly shot multiple holes in a water tank located along the Rattlesnake Mesa Road near Klondyke in southeastern Arizona sometime between Sunday, Oct. 21 and Thursday, Oct. 25.

The damaged water tank provides a crucial watering spot for wildlife and cattle. Plus, this ranch provides crucial access for hunters and other outdoor recreationists to a huge expanse of wild and rugged country.

“Such acts of wanton vandalism can not only impact wildlife, but injure long-standing relationships with ranchers who cooperate by providing continuing access to vast tracks of public land,” said Wildlife Manager John Bacorn.

Hunters can help by becoming the watchdogs to help stop such vandalism. Anyone with information on this case, or others, is asked to call the Game and Fish Department’s Operation Game Thief at 1-800-352-0700.

Al Eiden, with the Game and Fish Department’s Landowner Relations Program, said improving relationships between the landowners and the hunting community is a top priority for the Game and Fish Department.

“Through the relationships this program has established, the Game and Fish Department has ensured that hundreds of thousands of acres of property remains open to hunters, while simultaneously working with sportsmen and hunting organizations to encourage ethical use of lands open to hunting and respect for landowners and their operations,” Eiden said.

I will say it again - this behavior must be eradicated. Hunters need to push for legislation that hammers these people. Sign shooters, litterers, vandals, poachers - nothing will say “we don’t want these people among us” louder than pushing for laws that suspend their rights to hunt and fish - for life.

From “The outdoorwire.com”:

Yesterday, after Chief Justice John Roberts said a correct reading of the Second Amendment was “still very much an open issue” the United States Supreme Court granted Writ of Certiorari to the District of Columbia’s appeal of a U.S. Court of Appeals decision that found the District’s handgun laws unconstitutional. This sets the stage for a Supreme Court interpretation of the Second Amendment, more specifically an interpretation of the Amendment as an individual or collective right. Anti-gun groups have long held the Second Amendment was only applicable to government-appointed militias and organizations. In this morning’s edition of The Shooting Wire, editor Jim Shepherd takes a long look at the decision and its implication for firearms ownership. If you’re not already a Shooting Wire subscriber, you can read the story at The Shooting Wire

More in this article at the Washington Post.

Justices To Rule On D.C. Gun Ban
2nd Amendment Case Could Affect Laws Nationwide

By Robert Barnes
Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 21, 2007; Page A01

The Supreme Court announced yesterday that it will determine whether the District of Columbia’s strict firearms law violates the Constitution, a decision that will raise the politically and culturally divisive issue of gun control just in time for the 2008 elections.

The court’s examination of the meaning of the Second Amendment for the first time in nearly 70 years carries broad implications for gun-control measures locally and across the country.

The District has the nation’s most restrictive law, essentially banning private handgun ownership and requiring that rifles and shotguns kept in private homes be unloaded and disassembled or outfitted with a trigger lock. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit declared it unconstitutional last year, becoming the first appeals court to overturn a gun-control law because of the Second Amendment.

For years, legal scholars, historians and grammarians have debated the meaning of the amendment because of its enigmatic wording and odd punctuation: “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Gun-rights proponents say the words guarantee the right of an individual to possess firearms. Gun-control supporters say the words convey only a civic or “collective” right to own guns as part of service in an organized military organization. The Bush administration said in 2002 that it supports the individual-rights position.

This sounds like another great project from AZGF, along with Chandler Rod and Gun

Robbins Butte workshop teaches youth, adults about wildlife, conservation

The Arizona Game and Fish Department is partnering with Chandler Rod and Gun Club to offer a weekend workshop, Nov. 30-Dec. 2, for youths and adults who want to learn about wildlife, conservation, stewardship and how to hunt small game in Arizona.

The workshop will be held at Robbins Butte Wildlife Management Area (west of the Phoenix Metro Area). Youths must be accompanied by an adult. The cost is $40, which includes meals and hunting equipment. Registration is required; visit www.azgfd.gov/smallgamecamps for more information and to download a registration form.

This workshop offers beginners, youths age 10 and older, and adults interested in the outdoors, a great place to start. There will be hands-on hunting opportunities for dove, quail and rabbits with experienced mentors.

Participants will learn about firearm safety, hunting opportunities, game care, camping, and how to get permission to access private lands.

“The expertise of the mentors was impressive; the staff and volunteers were friendly and helpful; and the campfires at night were great fun,” reported a father and daughter about their experience at last year’s camp. “We are better ‘new’ hunters as a result of this experience, and we look forward to future programs the department offers.”

The Robbins Butte Wildlife Area is located approximately seven miles southwest of Buckeye, Arizona, comprising approximately 1,681 acres. It was selected as one of two areas along the Gila River with the greatest potential for waterfowl habitat enhancement. Wildlife that can be found in the area includes mourning doves, white-winged doves, Gambel’s quail, and cottontail rabbits. Other wildlife includes Sonoran collared lizards, coyotes, diamondback rattlesnakes, greater roadrunners, and great blue herons. For more information, directions and a map visit http://www.azgfd.gov/outdoor_recreation/wildlife_area_powers_butte.shtml

I don’t have a stance on the wolf reintroduction, but I do enjoy reading the monthly reports that are released by AZGFD. It is interesting to see the information that is gathered and analyzed.

From AZGFD:

MEXICAN WOLF REINTRODUCTION PROJECT NEWS

Monthly Status Report: October 1 - 31, 2007

The following is a summary of Mexican wolf reintroduction project activities in Arizona on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (ASNF) and in New Mexico on the Gila National Forest (GNF), collectively known as the Blue Range Wolf Reintroduction Area (BRWRA). Additional information can be obtained by calling (928) 339-4329 or toll free at 888-459-9653, or by visiting the Arizona Game and Fish Department Web site at http://www.azgfd.gov/wolf or by visiting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Web site at http://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/mexicanwolf. Past updates may be viewed on either Web site, or interested parties may sign up to receive this update electronically by visiting http://www.azgfd.gov/signup. This update is a public document and information in it can be used for any purpose. The reintroduction project is a multi-agency cooperative effort among the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD), New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF), USDA Forest Service (USFS), USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services (USDA APHIS WS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the White Mountain Apache Tribe (WMAT) located on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation (FAIR). Other entities cooperate through the Adaptive Management Work Group (AMWG) that meets quarterly in Arizona and/or New Mexico, including private individuals, organizations and tribes.

To view the weekly wolf telemetry flight location information or the 3-month wolf distribution map, please visit http://www.azgfd.gov/wolf. On the home page, go to the “Wolf Location Information” heading on the right side of the page near the top and scroll to the specific location information you seek.

Please report any wolf sightings or suspected livestock depredations to: (928) 339-4329 or toll free at 888-459-9653. To report incidents of take or harassment of wolves, please call the AGFD 24-hour dispatch (Operation Game Thief) at 800-352-0700.

Numbering System: Mexican wolves are given an identification number recorded in an official studbook that tracks their history. Capital letters (M = Male, F = Female) preceding the number indicate adult animals 18 months or older. Lower case letters (m = male, f = female) indicate wolves younger than 18 months or pups. The capital letter “A” preceding the letter and number indicate alpha wolves.

Definitions: For the purposes of the Monthly Update, a “wolf pack” is defined as two or more wolves that maintain an established home range. The Interagency Field Team (IFT) recognizes that wolves without radio telemetry collars may also form packs. If the IFT confirms that wolves are associating with each other and are resident within the same home range, they will be referenced as a pack.

CURRENT POPULATION STATUS

At the end of October, the collared population consisted of 25 wolves with functional radio collars dispersed among 11 packs and five single wolves. This number is different from last month because the IFT captured an uncollared female pup of the Rim pack, assigning it studbook number f1104, and also discovered the remains of F1048 of the Rim pack in Arizona. Other uncollared wolves are known to be associating with wolves having radio collars, as well as being separate from known packs.

At the end of 2006, there were an estimated 59 wolves throughout the BRWRA in New Mexico and Arizona. Of those, 46 were born in the wild.

IN ARIZONA:

Bluestem Pack (collared AM806, AF521 and F1042)
During the first part of October, the IFT located the pack on the FAIR. On the October 15, 23 and 29 telemetry flights, the IFT located the pack on the ASNF.

Hawks Nest Pack (collared AM619 and uncollared AF486)
Throughout October, the IFT located AM619 in its traditional home range in the north and central portion of the ASNF.

Rim Pack (collared AF858 and f1104)
Throughout October, the IFT located the pack within its traditional home range in the central portion of the ASNF. On October 17, the IFT observed one adult-sized wolf and one pup. On October 19, the IFT captured a female pup, fitted it with a radio collar, assigned it studbook number f1104, and released it on site. On October 21, the IFT recovered the remains of F1048 west of Hannagan Meadow in Arizona. The USFWS suspects the wolf died of natural causes and is investigating the cause of death. On October 27, the IFT heard one adult and two pups howling.

ON THE FAIR:

Bacho Pack (collared AM990)
Throughout October, the IFT located AM990 on the FAIR.

Lofer Pack (collared AF1056)
Throughout October, the IFT located AF1056 on the FAIR.

Paradise Pack (collared M1044, M1045 and M795)
Throughout October, the IFT located the pack on the FAIR.

IN NEW MEXICO:

Aspen Pack (collared AF667, AM863 and F1046)
On the October 15, 23, and 29 telemetry flights, the IFT located the pack north of their traditional home range area in the vicinity of the Durango pack. On October 15, 22 and 31, the IFT determined that AF667, AM863 and F1046 were involved in confirmed depredations of three calves resulting in the third, fourth and fifth depredation incidents for AF667, AM863 and F1046 (see “Incidents” below). As a result, the USFWS issued a Removal Order on October 26 for AM863 and F1046.

Durango Pack (collared AM973)
Throughout October, the IFT located AM973 in the northeastern portion of the GNF. During October, a permittee located tracks and scats near a residence, likely belonging to AM973. As a result, the IFT reinitiated hazing efforts. On the October 15, 23 and 29 telemetry flights, the IFT located AM973, with F1047 of the Luna pack, in the northeastern portion of the GNF.

Luna Pack (collared AM583, F1047 and uncollared AF562)
Throughout October, the IFT located the Luna pack in the central portion of the GNF. On the October 15, 23 and 29 telemetry flights, the IFT located F1047, with AM973 of the Durango pack, in the northeastern portion of the GNF.

Middle Fork Pack (collared AM871 and AF861)
Throughout October, the IFT located the pack in the northeastern portion of the Gila Wilderness. During the first and second week of October, the IFT made attempts to count and trap potential pups in the Gila Wilderness, but were unsuccessful.

San Mateo Pack (collared AF903)
On the October 9 and 15 telemetry flights, the IFT located AF903 in central portion of the Apache National Forest (ANF). On the October 23 telemetry flight, the IFT located AF903 over 30 miles east of the previous week’s location and approximately nine miles outside of the BRWRA boundary. On the October 29 telemetry flight, the IFT located AF903 within the BRWRA in eastern Arizona.

F923 (collared)
Throughout October, the IFT located F923 with M992 in the central portion of the GNF.

M992 (collared)
Throughout October, the IFT located M992 with F923 in the central portion of the GNF.

M1038 (collared)
During October, the IFT located M1038 in the northwestern portion of the ANF in the San Mateo pack territory.

M1039 (collared)
The IFT was not able to locate M1039 on the October 1, 9, 15 or 23 telemetry flights, despite search efforts. On October 17, the IFT located M1039 south of U.S. Highway 60, near Alegres Mountain, outside of the BRWRA. On the October 29 telemetry flight, the IFT located M1039 approximately 45 miles outside of the BRWRA, near the Acoma Indian Reservation.

F1040 (collared)
Throughout October, the IFT located F1040 in the southeastern portion of the Gila Wilderness. On the October 15 telemetry flight, the IFT located F1040 northwest of the Aldo Leopold Wilderness.

INCIDENTS

On October 1, the IFT discovered a dead sheep in Apache County, Arizona. The IFT investigation revealed that the sheep died of natural causes and was not a wolf-related mortality.

On October 2, the IFT received a report of a dead cow on the FAIR in Arizona. The IFT investigation determined that a coyote killed the cow.

On October 15, 22 and 31, the IFT confirmed that AF667, AM863 and F1046 of the Aspen pack were involved in confirmed depredations of three calves in Catron County, New Mexico. This marks the third, fourth and fifth depredation incidents for this pack. Based on all available evidence, the IFT assigned the depredations to AF667, AM863 and F1046. This is the third, fourth and fifth depredation incidents for the pack within a 365-day period. As a result of these incidents, the USFWS issued a Removal Order on October 26 for AM863 and F1046 in an effort to stop the pack from preying on calves. If the IFT captures AF667 or pups during these removal efforts, they will be fitted with radio collars, if necessary, and re-released within the reintroduction area.

CAPTIVE MANAGEMENT

On October 10, Ladder Ranch Wolf Management Facility project personnel transferred M904 from the facility to the New York Wolf Conservation Center for retirement. M904 was the former Francisco pack alpha male that the IFT removed for depredation incidents in the summer of 2005.

On October 16, Sevilleta Wolf Management Facility project personnel gave annual exams to M1019 and F886 and transferred them to the Ladder Ranch Wolf Management Facility. Project personnel separated M730, M731 and F638 from their pack due to aggression issues. Additionally, project personnel separated male and female wolves that were not selected for breeding for the upcoming breeding season. However, due to limited space at the Sevilleta and Ladder Ranch facilities, project personnel administered Deslorelin, a drug that temporarily suppresses the reproductive endocrine system, to F638, F797 and F886, thereby allowing them to remain together with their pack mates.

On October 31, Ladder Ranch Wolf Management Facility project personnel transferred M636, formerly a Bluestem pack offspring of 2000, to the Dakota Zoo in North Dakota.

COMMUNICATION AND COORDINATION

On October 4, Dan Groebner provided a presentation on wildlife viewing opportunities and potential economic benefits related to the Mexican wolf and other endangered species, to 12 participants at the Watchable Wildlife National Conference in Tucson, Arizona.

On October 6 and 7, Shawna Nelson and Dan Groebner contacted approximately 275 members of the public while working a wolf project information booth at the Second Annual Woodland Wildlife Festival in Pinetop, Arizona.

On October 12, Dan Groebner talked with 90 Blue Ridge Junior High students at their Career Day program in Pinetop, Arizona, about what is required to become a wolf biologist.

On October 13, Dan Groebner and Shawna Nelson provided a Mexican Wolf Natural History Workshop to 25 local participants at the Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area in Arizona.

On October 13 and 20, NMDGF employees provided Gaining Access Into Nature (GAIN) programs in New Mexico to participants spending a day with a wolf biologist in the field.

On October 16, Dan Groebner provided a wolf project presentation to 260 third and fourth-grade students at the 2007 Heritage Fair in Show Low, Arizona.

On October 16, Shawna Nelson provided a wolf project update and addressed issues and concerns with 10 employees of the Wilderness Ranger District in New Mexico.

On October 18, Dan Groebner provided a wolf project presentation to 23 fifth-grade students in Show Low.

On October 25, John Oakleaf answered questions about the wolf project for 100 participants at the Southwest Consolidated Sportsman Group in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

On October 27, Dan Groebner provided a wolf project presentation to 150 attendees at a fund-raising event of the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary Annual Zoofari in Prescott, Arizona.

On October 27, John Oakleaf provided a wolf project update near Alpine, Arizona, to 15 wildlife management students from the University of Arizona.

PROJECT PERSONNEL

On October 15, Jeannine Carlin, former USFWS volunteer, completed her temporary position with the wolf project.

On October 23, the AGFD completed interviews for the Wildlife Specialist I position and are now reviewing the candidate selections.

On October 27, J. Brad Miller, USDA APHIS WS, provided his two-week termination notice. J. Brad has been working as the Apache County agent for the past 12 years and has been the Wolf Depredation Specialist since 2004. J. Brad has been an asset to the project and will be sorely missed. Thank you, J. Brad, for all of your hard work with the wolf project!

REWARDS OFFERED

The USFWS is offering a reward of up to $10,000, the AGFD Operation Game Thief is offering a reward of up to $1,000 and the NMDGF is offering a reward of up to $500 for information leading to the conviction of the individual(s) responsible for the shooting deaths of Mexican wolves. A variety of non-governmental organizations and private individuals have pledged an additional $33,000 for a total reward amount of up to $44,500, depending on the information provided.

Individuals with information they believe may be helpful are urged to call one of the following agencies: USFWS special agents in Mesa, AZ, at (480) 967-7900, in Alpine, AZ, at (928) 339-4232, or in Albuquerque, NM, at (505) 346-7828; the WMAT at (928) 338-1023 or (928) 338-4385; AGFD Operation Game Thief at 1-800-352-0700; or NMDGF Operation Game Thief at 1-800-432-4263. Killing a Mexican wolf is a violation of the Federal Endangered Species Act, and can result in criminal penalties of up to $50,000 and/or not more than one year in jail, and/or a civil penalty of up to $25,000.

Rory Aikens from AZGF puts together a great fishing report every month:

Fishing Report

Nov. 14, 2007

Been Fishing?
Tell us about it. Your comments may be added to the weekly fishing report.

Report editor:
Rory Aikens, (602) 789-3214

Regional editors:
Pinetop Region - Richard Dreyer, (928) 367-4281
Flagstaff Region - Chuck Benedict, (928) 774-5045
Kingman Region - Andy Clark, (928) 692-7700
Yuma Region - Brad Jacobsen (928) 342-4051
Tucson Region - Don Mitchell, (520) 388-4451
Mesa Region - Diana Rogers, (480) 324-3544

Other ways to get the fishing report:
Internet home page: azgfd.gov
Recorded public call-in line: (602) 789-3701

Rory’s Tip
It looks like another weekend of sunny, warmer weather. If it feels like summer, you might as well fish that way too, you just don’t have to go far to catch a trout if you don’t want to.

This is the week – the Urban Program Lakes are being stocked with trout on Thursday for the first time this season.

Also, grab your fishing pole and your party hat for the Welcome Back the Trout party at Tempe Town Lake from 3-5 p.m. on Nov. 20, which is the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. It’s a fun annual fishing celebration – where you get to catch fish.

If you are looking for a fishing adventure, take a trip to Willow Beach (below Hoover Dam) for stocked trout, huge stripers (that feed on trout) and maybe some bighorn sheep watching as well. This is the leading edge of the bighorn lambing season, so you might see some wobbly-legged baby bighorns sticking close to water.

For the huge stripers (like 40 and 50 pounds) at Willow Beach, use some trout-like swim baits on heavy line. Many anglers use salt-water rigs for these monster, line-breaking stripers.

We also have some decent reports of stripers chasing shad at the surface at both Lake Mohave and Lake Mead. This may be the last hurrah for the surface action.

With the warmer-than-normal weather, there are still plenty of opportunities to fish the high country for trout. My top tip is to try for native Apache trout in Silver Creek, and maybe visit our Silver Creek Hatchery as well just five miles east of Show Low along Highway 60 (just follow the signs). For more information on the hatchery, click here. http://www.azgfd.gov/h_f/hatcheries_silver_creek.shtml

The Mogollon Rim lakes should provide you with a great trout fishing expedition right now. Anglers report easily catching a limit of trout. Take along a jacket for the chilly mornings. Get reacquainted with how great the sun feels when standing in the sun (versus hiding from it) while fishing along the shoreline.

If you want the trout fishing trip of a lifetime, get to Big Lake in the White Mountains. Check out the reports from anglers this week. However, the brook trout have apparently NOT entered the spawning mode yet. At the rate we are going, maybe by . . . Christmas?

Don’t waste this great weather. Good luck. Maybe I’ll see you out there.

Fishing News
We still need volunteers at Canyon Lake
We still need volunteers to help build Pisces pyramids at Canyon Lake to help improve this classic fishery along the Salt River. The department has an immediate need for some more people for Sunday, Nov. 18. To volunteer, contact Natalie Robb with Game and Fish at (480) 324-3541.

Volunteers are needed to help at Canyon Lake from Nov. 17 to Dec. 16 when the Arizona Game and Fish Department will be installing artificial habitats at strategic locations on the lake bottom while the water level is down 50 feet for conducting routine maintenance on the dam.

Volunteers will be helping move tree limbs, cement blocks, and wooden pallets to construct Pisces pyramids (artificial habitats). Work hours will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

On Oct. 30, the department bolstered Canyon Lake’s smallmouth population by stocking some bronzebacks imported from Illinois. In mid November, Canyon will also receive its first installment of largemouth bass.

Another part of the Salt River Lakes Project was stocking Saguaro Lake with largemouth bass this week.

Central Arizona
URBAN LAKES – Andrew Huynh fished Alvord using raw shrimp and caught his largest fish ever – a channel catfish. “I took lots of pictures with the fish, got measurements and then released it. Its head was six-inches wide and from mouth tip to the tip of the tail it was 25.5 inches.”

The trout stocking is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 15 in the Phoenix and Tucson Urban Lakes. They range from 10 to 12 inches and will be stocked at rates of 80-100 fish per lake surface acre for urban lakes and at lower rates for urban ponds. Trout stockings will continue at two-week intervals throughout the winter. More than 100,000 trout from Colorado have been ordered for delivery to the Urban Fishing Program lakes during the four-month stocking season. With the colder temperatures at Payson’s Green Valley Lakes, trout stocking started on Oct. 17 and will continue every other week for seven months.

The best bait for trout include Power Bait, salmon eggs, worms and small spinners. A light weight pole with 4 to 6 pound test line is optimum. The lighter the line, the better the sensitivity and the trout won’t see the line as easily. Another FYI for trout fishing in general, the more flexible rod you have the least likely you are to rip the lip of the trout. This is a function of the low test line and the rod “giving” as opposed to the trout’s lip ripping. Setting the hook real hard isn’t a real good idea with trout; you end up loosing your fish.

Don’t forget the 2007 Class U Urban fishing licenses will be available at half price for $9.25 for the period from November 1 through December 31, 2007. License dealers may be unfamiliar with this so bring your fishing regulations if they need verification.

TEMPE TOWN LAKE – The Welcome Back the Trout celebration is from 3-5 p.m. on Nov. 20, the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. Come catch some trout, bluegill, bass or carp and celebrate the return of the rainbows for the new season.

Let us know how you do!

Remember no gas motors are allowed (trolling motors are) and you must have a boating permit, which can be obtained at the Town Lake operations center.

LAKE PLEASANT – Water elevation is 1,648 ft which is 46% full.

The bite was off this last weekend. That is typical with cooler weather and changing water temperatures. Keep trying, it will pick up again as soon as they adjust. Keep an eye on the weather, high pressure is usually when they bite. . as long as the water temps are stable.

Our research shows that striped bass tyically congregate in the Agua Fria arm of the lake in winter. When you graph lots of fish, try chumming with frozen anchovies (small pieces) and fish using the same-sized bait with little or no weight.

ROOSEVELT LAKE – Water elevation remains at 2,099 feet, which is 45-percent full.

Mark Dornbusch fished Rose from Friday through using Rat-L-Traps worked before sun up and buzzbait at sunrise. He suggests following the baitfish! “Look for the birds perched along the shallows and you will find the baitfish and the bass. No birds - move on! The bite then died an hour after sunrise. Bass have been feeding during periods of moonlight. With the new moon things will improve during the day.”

Steve and Amber Owens from Flagstaff fished Saturday and Sunday and finally found the in the back of the coves at about 2 feet of water. “We picked up some Bass with pumpkin-colored spider jigs. We then went out to deeper water, finding no fish until about 20 feet deep off of the steeper rocky shores. We then had another great bite on deep-diving crankbaits. My Wife landed an 18-inch largemouth, 3-plus pounder!! Weather was great and we caught a total of 24 Bass.”

APACHE – Water elevation is at 1,908 feet, which is 94-percent full. Canyon Creek hatchery had 21,000 surplus rainbows. They were stocked at Apache Lake Nov. 6 and 7 last week, half at the main launch and half at Burnt Coral. The water temperature at the time of stocking was 60oF and the pH was 8. They averaged around 6 1/2 – 7 1/2 inches. Tonto also had some surplus rainbows and they stocked them in Apache last week as well, but they were a little smaller. Although the trout are a little small, I’m sure they are getting the bass and walleye a little excited. Try throwing out some “trout looking lures” to nab the big ones. Also don’t forget the yellow bass in Apache. . . they like to hang near the drop offs at the points. Try KastMasters and spoons.

We re-stocked Apache with some smallmouth bass recently– please practice catch and release on any smallies. Hopefully, these fish will be the founding parents for millions of future bronzebacks in this scenic lake along the Salt River. Let’s give them a chance to mature, spawn, and spawn again (and again and again).

During a recent survey, Game and Fish biologists turned up some pretty nice looking largemouth bass. All were real plump and healthy looking. Biologists caught them along the shoreline at night while the bass were cruising for food (doing the same at Saguaro this week).

CANYON – Closed to boaters – lake elevation is 1604 which is 29 % full. Drawdown started Sept. 29 and will last until Jan. 26, 2008.

Game and Fish will be installing fish habitat at Canyon Lake this weekend as long as we have enough volunteers. It looks like we have a good group of volunteers for Saturday, Nov.17, but we are in need of volunteers for Sunday; only three people have signed up. If you are interested in helping please call Natalie Robb at (480) 324-3541.

Other dates we need help are Nov. 24, 25, 29, and 30. December work days are December 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 14, and 16. If we don’t get enough volunteers, that work day will be cancelled. Work duties will involve moving construction materials, tree limbs, cement blocks and pallets from a fenced storage yard to the lakeshore nearby, then transport of these materials across the lake to the pre-selected habitat development sites. Items will then be off loaded lakeside and materials will need to be moved to the exact location for actual construction. There will be some light-duty machinery available for moving materials to and from the shoreline, but a majority of items will need to be moved by hand due to the proximity and loading weight of the pontoon boats/barges involved.

Work hours will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers are asked to bring their own beverages, meals and appropriate clothes to suit the weather. AGFD will have gloves available at the work site in addition to bottled water.

Your volunteer time and effort not only helps build new habitat for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, black crappie and channel catfish but also counts as “match” for the department to receive more Federal Sportfish Restoration dollars.

SAGUARO – Lake elevation 1,526 feet at 94 percent full.

One angler, who didn’t give his name, tried fishing topwater for 30 min with no luck, then switched to spinner and golden spoon and for a little over one hour. “It was heaven. We caught 12 yellow bass including a 1-pound, 5-ounce; seven 1-pound largemouth bass, and one bluegill the size of my hand. We also lost about a dozen other fish. My partner sat down to eat a granola bar and before he finished I caught two yellows and a largemouth. What a fantastic day out on the lake.”

Arizona Game and Fish stocked 6-8 inch largemouth bass with the help of several fishermen. Thanks to the fishermen for all your help distributing the fish around the lake.

The stocking went well although there was some mortality that occurred at the hatchery, probably due to the stress of moving the fish from Texas, tagging the fish last week at the hatchery and the crowded raceway conditions. We used wire-coded tags in the nape of the neck so we will be able to tell stocked fish versus naturally spawned fish in subsequent surveys and creels.

There are still some good sized largemouth bass in there; try some of the vegetated coves. A recent survey showed lots of yellow bass, including record-size ones. I suggest you go after the yellow bass by using KastMasters and spoons around the Butcher Jones area. Yellows are quite prolific, so keep some for dinner (they are great eating). Cast toward shore and lead it into the deeper water. They like to hang out at the drop offs and grab the lure as it goes into the depths.

BARTLETT – Manti Galbraith said he took Paul (10) and Josh (11) Plumb from Casa Grande fishing at Bartlett Lake. “Their father is a friend of mine and is serving in the military. They really wanted to go fishing, so I took them. We were in my boat fishing about 50 yards from one of the fish habitats near Rattlesnake Cove when Paul snagged a monster from the deep. He set the hook and a fight ensued. He was using a night crawler and fishing on the bottom in about 40 feet of water. He struggled for about 5 minutes to get the fish to the surface. His brother Josh was jumping around and nearly capsized the small 14-foot boat. We finally netted the beast (a catfish) and stood in awe. It was more than my 10-pound fish scale would measure. I put the fish at about 13 pounds. They can’t wait to go back.”

Water elevation is 1,753 ft, which is 44-percent full. Bass are hitting crankbaits and buzzbaits. Water dogs are good for catfish and not too bad for bass as well. Also try tolling minnows or 2-inch grubs in 17-20 feet of water for crappie.

With a waning moon and unseasonably warm (darn hot actually) conditions, this might be the last opportunity to fish at night under lights for crappie. Is this really November? Wow.

This is also a superb time to target flathead catfish. Try using live bluegills or small carp as bait in the deeper holes up-lake passed the No Wake buoys.

HORSESHOE LAKE – Water elevation is 1954 ft, which is 3-percent full (no pool). No reports from anglers. Not even sure if this area will produce any decent duck hunting this year.

VERDE RIVER – No reports. Verde River flow at Tangle is 168 cubic feet per second (CFS) and it’s 53 CFS at Camp Verde.

LOWER SALT RIVER (below Saguaro Lake) – Trout are being stocked at Phon D Sutton and Granite Reef.

Lori Firestone wrote that she used night crawlers with a small weight and let them float downstream and although she did not catch any trout, she caught seven catfish, with two over 3 pounds, and three small bass. “The catfish were biting all day. Would have liked to see some trout, though!”

Try some Power Bait or worms. Fishermen are also reporting successful largemouth bass fishing in the slower, deeper water using night crawlers or jerk baits. Crappie jigs are producing some results in the faster water.

In the upper reaches (below Saguaro Lake), it is still possible to catch bass, catfish and bluegills in the deeper holes. Live bait such as worms or flashy lures, such as inline spinners, are best. On angler caught a 3-pound bass on Monday morning.

GREEN VALLEY LAKE, PAYSON – This is an urban program lake has been stocked with rainbow trout. This is a great lake for the kids – give it a try.

HORSETHIEF BASIN LAKE – Mike Parks said the only thing he caught was a sunburn, but the weather was so perfect it was worth it. “Saw several largemouths. Lake is real low, lots of deer and javelina in the area.”

This tiny lake can be found up in the Bradshaw Mountains near Crown King. The lake sits in the pines and is good for a canoe or car topper. There are also improved campsites near the lake. During a recent survey, lots of largemouth bass averaging a pound and red ear sunfish nice pan size were observed. Redears love mealworms and night crawlers. No recent angler reports.

CREEKS – Haigler, Canyon, Tonto, East Verde and Workman are not currently being stocked, but they have plenty of fish and are still worth visiting. Browns should be staging for the spawn and there are plenty of rainbows to catch. Try Pheasant tail nymphs, copper Johns, big wooly buggers and semi-seal leaches. Spin anglers should try night crawlers or salmon eggs.

Colorado River Northwest
LEES FERRY – Today’s Fly Fishing: Good reports, the water came up slow so fishing the tail-outs was O.K. until the water peaked. Those who drifted did well after noon. Same old flies San Juan worms, zebra midges and the laser is picking up fish as well.

Spin Fishing Tips: Had a good report today, some anglers fished the rubber worm bouncing off the bottom and did well. Back-trolling is still working well too. Don’t get many spin fishing reports so, if you are a spin fisherman and have a report to pass on PLEASE stop in.

Walk In: I have to tell you this area is still fishing very well. Move around a bit to find where the fish are. Reports I have had in the past few days were very positive; fishing is good in this section. You must have your fly right on the bottom if not you won’t catch fish so you may have to adjust your weight some to find the perfect rig. And that in itself can be ever changing as the water rises and the flow increases. Tight lines!!!

Fishing Synopsis and Forecast by Terry Gunn. Our recent fall weather has been almost perfect, with the exception of a couple windy days. The ramp rates in October have been more favorable than those we saw in September. The water has been slowly rising in the morning and peaking at a lower rate than last month. The trout have slowly been moving into the riffles to feed on the small (size 28) midges that are hatching most days. Most of the guides are having their best fishing by drifting out of the boats in the deeper water (3 to 8-ft deep). Bead head zebra midges are producing best in sizes of #18 to #20. When fishing these small midges it is critical to go down to 7X tippet, anything larger will not produce fish. I recently saw a rare sight for Lees Ferry, a fairly prolific hatch of mayflies! The water flows are near perfect for wading most of the popular spots on the river as well as the walk-in section. There will be a slight flow increase in November, but will not be a large enough increase to impact the wading angler. The fish continue to look good, are strong, and in great physical shape. The weather is finally cooling off. We are seeing a tremendous number of fingerling trout in the river. This is a result from the terrific spawn that we saw this past spring, which bodes well for the future. The downside is that these fish will not be of catchable size until after next summer.

Note from Arizona Game and Fish: Whirling disease has been detected in the rainbow trout population here. Please take the following steps.

Never transport live fish from one water body to another (this is illegal in Arizona).
* Dispose of fish entrails and skeletal parts properly. Never discard fish parts in or near streams or rivers. Do not discard fish parts in a kitchen disposal. Whirling disease spores can survive most wastewater treatment systems. Instead, discard in dry waste that would go to a landfill.
* Rinse all mud and debris from equipment and wading gear, and drain water from boats before leaving an infected drainage. This is good practice for preventing transfer of other aquatic hitchhikers as well.

Although the above precautions will remove most spores from your gear, you may want to consider the following if fishing in heavily infected waters:

1) Rinse, and then thoroughly dry your boots, waders and other fishing equipment. This is generally sufficient to kill the TAM stage of the whirling parasite.

2) Chlorine (regular household bleach) is a very effective disinfectant, and one of the few that can kill all stages of the parasite if used at the proper concentration. However, chlorine is a very strong chemical and can harm your equipment with prolonged exposure, so make sure you rinse the chlorine off your waders and other equipment after you disinfect, and dry in the shade.

3) To kill the TAM stage, use 1 part chlorine to 32 parts water. It must stay in contact for about 10 minutes to assure disinfection.

4) To kill the mature spores that may be found in the mud from an infected stream is much more difficult and hard on equipment, such as 50% solution (1 part chlorine to 1 part water) - dip waders into a solution of the bleach or wipe or spray it on or 10% solution (1 part chlorine to 9 parts water) and soak your equipment for 10 minutes.

5) Quaternary ammonium compounds are also effective in killing both parasite stages. These disinfectants are commercially available for disinfecting fishing equipment (Bright Water TM) or for the pet/veterinary trade (Roccal-D TM, Parvosol TM).
Equally effective is water heated to nearly boiling (200°F) poured over your gear and allowed to cool.

LAKE MEAD – The striper fishing at Lake Mead has slowed a little, but is still pretty good. Trolling crankbaits along steep shorelines in Greggs Basin was yielding stripers. Catfish have been biting all day and night on anchovies and liver. The ramp is open at South Cove, but it is a gravel ramp. Be careful when launching here. The lake elevation remains fairly steady around 1,111 feet. State and Federal Biologists sampled fish populations in Lake Mead during the month of October. During this sampling gizzard shad were found for the first time in Lake Mead. This is not a surprise since they have been found in Powell since 2000.

Important notice: With the recent discovery of invasive quagga mussels in Mead, Mohave and Havasu, proper cleaning of all watercraft is critical to help prevent the spread of these invaders. Please drain and dry your livewell and bilge on land. Drain all the water you can from your engine. Also, inspect your vessel and trailer, removing any visible mussels, but also feel for any rough or gritty spots on the hull. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see.

For more information, go to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s web pages at azgfd.gov or visit http://100thmeridian.org/.

LAKE MOHAVE –The striper bite has been good in spots. I have received multiple reports of fat stripers full of shad and schools of shad being chased by striped bass. If the shad are making a comeback, we may see more mid-size stripers in the basin. If you can find schools of shad throw a small crankbait. I’ve also received reports of largemouth being caught in 25 to 35 feet of water on drop-shots.

There is a wheelchair accessible fishing pier just south of the main launch ramp at Katherine’s Landing. If you fish Mohave and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.

Important notice: With the recent discovery of invasive quagga mussels in Mead, Mohave and Havasu, proper cleaning of all watercraft is critical to help prevent the spread of these invaders. Please drain and dry your livewell and bilge on land. Drain all the water you can from your engine. Also, inspect your vessel and trailer, removing any visible mussels, but also feel for any rough or gritty spots on the hull. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see.

For more information, go to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s web pages at azgfd.gov or visit http://100thmeridian.org/.

WILLOW BEACH - Trout are stocked every Friday. The fishing for trout has been good from shore immediately following the stocking. As the water temperature falls in the basin, some of the stripers will return to the open water, but many of the big stripers remain in the vicinity of Willow Beach year round. The water level has begun to drop for the winter. Look for the surface elevation to drop to around 12 feet below full.

Important notice: With the recent discovery of invasive quagga mussels in Mead, Mohave and Havasu, proper cleaning of all watercraft is critical to help prevent the spread of these invaders. Please drain and dry your livewell and bilge on land. Drain all the water you can from your engine. Also, inspect your vessel and trailer, removing any visible mussels, but also feel for any rough or gritty spots on the hull. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see. If you fish Willow beach and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.
For more information, go to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s web pages at azgfd.gov or visit http://100thmeridian.org/.

TOPOCK MARSH – Water level is down, so be careful launching. The bass are in the vegetation outside the channel. Try using quick movements to trigger strikes through the thick vegetation. Catfish have been excellent. Try using mackerel, anchovies, worms or shrimp in the early morning or night.

Kenne Probst caught 25 catfish, with most in the one-pound range, using frozen anchovies. He said one angler caught a 15-pound striper.

On Oct 13, 45 kids participated in a fishing clinic at Five Mile landing that produced carp, bass, channel catfish, and 1 green sunfish. One little girl caught a 10-pound carp her first time fishing.

Game and fish biologist sampled lots of largemouth bass the middle of January throughout the marsh. The bass numbers were great and the crappie and catfish populations looked really good as well. You can access the marsh by boat at North Dike, Catfish Paradise, and Five-Mile Landing. All three also provide plenty of area for shoreline fishing too. For more information on the marsh, contact the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge at (760) 326-3853 or go to http://www.fws.gov/southwest/refuges/arizona/havasu/index.html.

Important notice: With the recent discovery of invasive quagga mussels in Mead, Mohave and Havasu, proper cleaning of all watercraft is critical to help prevent the spread of these invaders. Please drain and dry your livewell and bilge on land. Drain all the water you can from your engine. Also, inspect your vessel and trailer, removing any visible mussels, but also feel for any rough or gritty spots on the hull. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see.
For more information, go to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s web pages at azgfd.gov or visit http://100thmeridian.org/.

COLORADO RIVER BELOW DAVIS DAM – Trout stocking resumed in October. Fishing has been good below Davis Dam, but look for it to be even better following immediately following the trout stockings. Fish and Wildlife Service stocks once a month in this area.
The fish are stocked in two locations; Davis Camp and near The Riverside.

Kenne Probst said he found fishing a little slow but did manage to catch some catfish float-fishing from Davis Camp along Casino Row. Water levels on the river fluctuate, so be careful. You can check the Bureau of Reclamation Web site for flow predictions http://www.usbr.gov/lc/riverops.html before you go. If you fish the river below Davis Dam and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.

Important notice: With the recent discovery of invasive quagga mussels in Mead, Mohave and Havasu, proper cleaning of all watercraft is critical to help prevent the spread of these invaders. Please drain and dry your livewell and bilge on land. Drain all the water you can from your engine. Also, inspect your vessel and trailer, removing any visible mussels, but also feel for any rough or gritty spots on the hull. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see.
For more information, go to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s web pages at azgfd.gov or visit http://100thmeridian.org/.

Southwestern Arizona
LAKE HAVASU – Striped bass boils continue to be sighted in the middle of coves, scattered in the basin of the lake and the shorelines near Windsor Beach. These fish are primarily staying in the main lake basin and down south as far as Skiers Island. Quantities of small bass can be caught on cut anchovies and the larger striped bass are being caught in early mid-morning and late afternoon. If fishing the boils, the R2S Rover 128 in Okie Shad, Chrome black or chartreuse shad are working well as is the bone-colored Vixen, and the Okie shad and bone-colored Zara Spooks. From the shore use Rat-L-Trap type baits like the R2S tungsten vibe in chartreuse shad, chrome/black or similar crankbaits in chrome/blue that can be ripped and retrieved quickly through the grass beds. If using bait, try using anchovies in the deeper water.

Smallmouth and largemouth bass are being caught through out the day with the early morning bite being the best. The larger fish tend to feed early in the morning and topwater baits are working quite well right now to get these bigger fish. They are hitting bone-colored Vixens, bone-colored Zara Spooks, or small Storm Chug Bugs in chrome blue and phantom chartreuse. After the early morning, switch to smaller plastic baits. The slip-shotting and drop-shotting methods tend to be working very well right now in and on the outside edges of weed beds near the deeper water or along the rocky points in the main basin in 15- 20 feet. Use a 4-inch straight tail Robo Worm in bold blue gill. If drop-shot rigging, wacky style works great! The 4- to 6-inch bold blue gill curly tail works well if split-shotting it through the weeds and out deep on rocky points.

FORTUNA POND – The water level at Fortuna Pond is low at the due to construction on the outlet structure and the well. Exactly how long this condition will exist is not known. As for the fishing, it has been excellent for channel catfish. If you go to Fortuna Pond there are several special regulations in effect there. The limit for trout is four trout (first stocking will be in December); the limit is two bass, minimum size 13 inches; the limit four catfish in any combination; the limit is 10 sunfish.

ALAMO LAKE – Our normal report provide, Mark Knapp, is recovering from neck surgery (get well soon). The trickle of reports from anglers still indicates that his is one of the better places for fall action on bass and crappie. Let us know how you do. Fishing should be great due to this mild weather.

Parker Strip (Colorado River): Water releases from Parker dam have dropped off along with the daytime temperatures and boat traffic. Fishing has picked up over the past month as local species start bulking up for the colder winter months. The smallmouth bite has been good. Local anglers report that crank baits with shad colors (black and white) are working well. Smallmouth can be found throughout the Parker strip and down river but prefer the rockier shorelines.

Look for largemouth to be actively feeding in the morning hours.

Catfish have slowed down with the cooler weather, but the bite may be coming earlier in the evening or right around first light. Night crawlers and goldfish are always good bets, but sunfish make good live bait too.

You will find sunfish near shore in the weedy habitat. As aquatic vegetation thins out this fall, anglers should look for redears or bluegills around brush piles or docks. Dinner plate size redear-hybrids are not that uncommon on the Parker Strip. Small earthworms work well as do live crickets are good bait.

Important notice: Quagga mussels have been found in Lake Havasu so proper cleaning of all watercraft is critical to help prevent the spread of these invaders. Please move to the parking lot, DRAIN your live-wells and bilge where the water does not return to the lake. Drain all the water you can from your engine. Also, INSPECT your watercraft and trailer, removing any visible mussels, but also feel for any rough or gritty spots on the hull. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see.

Fall Outlook (2007)

Alamo Lake:

The lake elevation has dropped to 1,111.67 msl. Largemouth bass are present in all sizes and fishing is expected to be excellent this fall. Crappie fishing is expected to be fair to good throughout the fall and winter. Channel catfish continue to look good and fishing should be good also. There are other fish present such as bluegill, redear sunfish and carp that are a lot of fun to catch this fall. All types of bait should work right now and as the weather cools off a shift to slowly working plastics in deeper water for bass could improve your catch. For channel catfish any of the prepared catfish baits as well as chicken livers and anything else you can think of should work.

In addition to the good to excellent fishing, both of the boat ramps are useable at this lake elevation.

The store at the lake has closed so you need to bring everything with you. If you run short of anything you might be able to pick it up at the Wayside Inn or in Wenden. The certified scale that was located at the store is now located at the Alamo State Park Office and the park office also has live bait for the crappie fishermen.

Lake Havasu & Topock Gorge:

Largemouth bass, as well as smallmouth bass are expected to be good to excellent. The size will range from 13 inches and up with an occasional fish greater than 4 pounds. Striped bass will continue to be excellent for small fish (12-18 inches) with occasional fish over 8 pounds. Channel catfish as well as bluegill and redear sunfish will be fair to good. Flathead catfish fishing should be fair at the lower end of the lake (Bill Williams River Arm) through the fall. Sizes of flathead catfish can reach as high as 40 pounds. When fishing for them, select the interior points in the coves and the areas where artificial structure has been placed.

The cooler weather causes the bite to slow down so it is important to work your lures slower and in deeper water. Put away your topwater lures and switch to plastics, crankbaits, spinnerbaits and jigs.

Colorado River (Parker Strip Area):

Smallmouth bass with fish over two pounds are expected to be good this fall. In addition, redear sunfish should also be good in the pound-plus sizes. Channel and flathead catfish are always fair in this section of the Colorado River. Below the dam, striper fishing should also be fair using anchovies this fall.

Colorado River (between Palo Verde Diversion Dam and Walter’s Camp):
This area should be fair for both smallmouth bass (in the channel) and largemouth bass (in the backwaters) throughout the entire area. Channel and flathead catfish are always fair to good in this section of the Colorado River. Most flathead catfish will be in the 2- to 5-pound size range with an occasional fish over 30 pounds. The time for fishing for both species of catfish is in the evening to midnight.

Colorado River (between Walter’s Camp and Picacho State Park):

This section of the Colorado River is relatively remote and can only be accessed by boat from either end. Fishing is expected to be fair to good for flathead catfish with sizes over 40 pounds. The best time for fishing for both species of catfish will be in the evening to midnight. Largemouth bass and bluegill are also present in the various backwaters and slack water areas. Other species available in the main river are smallmouth bass, and striped bass.

Colorado River (between Picacho State Park and Imperial Dam):

This area is expected to be fair to good for largemouth bass, channel catfish, and flathead catfish. Bass and channel catfish in excess of 5 pounds are present along with flathead catfish as large as 40 pounds. Bluegills are also present in the various backwaters and an occasional striped bass will be caught in the main river channel.

Colorado River (between Laguna and Morelos dams):

This area will be fair for largemouth bass and flathead catfish. Bass in excess of 5 pounds is common and flathead catfish over 20 pounds is a good bet. In this area accessibility to the river is dependent on the amount of water being released. Usually shallow draft boats work the best. The lower end has had some dredging work done and the larger boat will be able to get on the river in that area.

With the increase in border issues and illegal activity on the lower end of this area I would away from that area (Pilot Knob to Moreles Dam).

Regional Hot Spots:

Alamo Lake will be the hot spot for Largemouth bass and channel catfish.

Lake Havasu and Parker Strip will be good for striped bass, smallmouth bass, and redear sunfish.

Colorado River below Walter’s Camp will be fair for flathead catfish, channel catfish in the main river channel, and largemouth bass in the backwater areas.

For those looking for a tremendous watchable wildlife opportunity this winter, try a visit to the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge where you might see thousands of geese and hundreds of sandhill cranes.

If you need any additional information or additional don’t hesitate to contact the Yuma Regional office at (928) 341-4051 and I will be happy to accommodate you.

North Central Region
Channel Catfish were stocked into Stone Dam, Santa Fe, City and Kaibab lakes. Remember that the catfish limit on Stone dam, Santa Fe and City Lakes is four catfish per day. The trout limit on City Reservoir is also four trout. Trout fishing is improving as the weather cools.
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WILLIAMS LAKES:
KAIBAB LAKE — Campground area is closed. Main parking lot and boat launch open for day use only. Fishing was good to excellent using any color Power Bait.

CATARACT LAKE — Campground is closed. Stocked last week. Lake is open for walk in fishing. Fishing was good to excellent using any color Power Bait. The water level has increased to near the spillway.

CITY RESERVOIR — Open. Fishing was good last week. Any bait that will float off the bottom seemed to work well. Water level is good.

DOGTOWN LAKE — Jared Pensinger caught-and-released 50 rainbow and brown trout using Panther Martins, Rooster Tails and Power Bait.

The picnic area, main parking lot and boat launch are open for day use only. Fishing is good to excellent using any color Power Bait. Some browns are being caught on lures.

JD DAM — Anglers are catching brown trout fly-fishing.

RUSSEL TANK - No reports.

SANTA FE — Fishing was good to excellent using any color Power Bait..

WHITEHORSE LAKE — No report from anglers. Campground is closed. Lake is open for walk in fishing. Because of low water levels the lake will not be stocked anymore this year.

FLAGSTAFF LAKES:

LOWER LAKE MARY —The lake is dry.

UPPER LAKE MARY — The lake is 17-percent full. No report from anglers, but this lake has walleye and northern pike.

ASHURST LAKE — No report. This lake has plenty of rainbows and pike.

FRANCIS SHORT POND – No reports.

KINNIKINICK LAKE — No reports.

MARSHALL LAKE — Low water. Has not been stocked since spring.

OAK CREEK — Fishing is slow. A few small rainbow trout are being caught on flies.

LONG LAKE — Lake is open. Water level is very low.

SOLDIERS & SOLDIERS ANNEX — Lake is open. No report.

BEAVER CREEK — Has been stocked recently. Fishing is good using night crawlers.

WEST CLEAR CREEK — Has been stocked recently. Fishing is good using night crawlers.

STONEMAN LAKE — NO FISH.

MINGUS LAKE –Trout were stocked last on the week of Oct 15. This is the last scheduled stocking for the year. The Forest Service gate is open. Try bright-colored Power Bait like chartreuse, salmon eggs, or various spinners. Someone illegally stocked yellow bullhead into Mingus several years ago. These fish compete directly with the trout and keep growth rates very low. If you witness anyone, anywhere, moving fish like bass, bluegill, catfish and stocking them, please report it to our Operation Game Thief Hotline. Illegal stockings cost YOU money!

DEAD HORSE STATE PARK – Trout were stocked last week, the week of Nov. 5, and are scheduled to be stocked again next week. Look for the fishing to be good to excellent following the stocking. Try using small spinners or Power Bait.

Catfish were stocked the week of Sept. 24, for Verde River Days festivities, so look for the catfish fishing to be good.

Several largemouth bass, including a 10-plus pounder have been caught this summer in the middle lagoon. In-line spinners, plastic grubs, and small crankbaits have been the ticket. The bluegill fishing has been good using a salmon egg or small worm on a small bait hook below a bobber. The bluegills are plentiful in both the middle and lower lagoons, so between trout and catfish stockings try your luck with the bluegill.

VERDE RIVER (throughout Verde Valley) – Although trout have been stocked, Ian Tabeling did well using small gold Z-rays to catch seven smallmouth bass.

Trout were stocked last week, the week of Nov. 5, and are scheduled to be stocked again next week. Trout will be stocked at all five sites. Stocking sites are at Tuzigoot Bridge outside of Clarkdale, the bridge that leads to the Dead Horse State Park, at Dead Horse State Parks access point called the Jacks, at the White Bridge in Camp Verde, and at Bignotti Beach. The department stocks trout in these waters from November through March, when the water temperature can support a trout fishery. Cold winter water temperatures keep the other game fish fairly inactive until about mid-March.

Tuzigoot Bridge (leading to Tuzigoot National Monument) has decent rainbow trout fishing early and late in the day. Most fishermen concentrate near the bridge, but the pools and currents downstream within 300 yards of the bridge hold lots of trout and do not see much fishing pressure. Small spoons such as Z-rays, Mepps and Panther Martin spinners, and Power Bait all work well.

LYNX LAKE — Rainbows were stocked last week (Nov. 5). Trout fishing should be good following the stocking. Brook trout were stocked in September. The brooks were in the 5-inch range, but hopefully they will be catchable size for the fishing in the spring. Rainbows were stocked the week of Oct. 12.

Game and Fish stocked catfish the week of June 4. There were 200 pounds of bluegill stocked on March 29. Try using worms or mealworms on a bobber. Small spinners may work as well. Game and Fish biologists surveyed Lynx in May and found that the brook trout stocked in September 2006 were still present.

FAIN LAKE — Rainbows were stocked last week, (Nov. 5) Prescott Valley Parks and Recreation held the annual Gold Fever Days at Fain Lake in mid October, were nearly all of the kids that participated in the fishing clinic caught fish. Five-inch brook trout were stocked in Sept. 24 and rainbows were stocked Oct. 12 & 15. Rainbows are scheduled to be stocked again the week of Nov. 5. Catfish were stocked on June 4. There were 150 pounds of bluegill stocked on March 29. These fish were hand-sized and should be easily caught. Try using worms or mealworms on a bobber. Small spinners may work as well.

GOLDWATER LAKE — Trout were stocked Oct. 1 and are scheduled to be stocked this week, the week of Nov. 12. I have not received any information the last few weeks on the fishing. Spinners should be a good bet (small black Mepps). Fishing should pick up following the stocking this week. You may try using spinners, jigs, worms and rainbow Power Bait no deeper than 25-feet in the early mornings.

Game and Fish Biologists surveyed Goldwater during the middle of May and found the trout and sunfish plentiful. While the number of catfish and bass was low, the quality was exceptional. One 16-pound catfish was sampled and released. The bass averaged about 3.5 pounds. On March 29, 400 pounds of bluegill were stocked. These fish were hand-sized and should be easily caught. Try using worms or mealworms on a bobber. Small spinners may work as well. If you fish Goldwater and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.

Mogollon Rim
CHEVELON CANYON LAKE — The lake is full but not spilling. Fishing is fair. Anglers are catching a few rainbow trout on lures and flies. Keep in mind that brown trout spawn in the fall, so this may set the stage for good fishing in a month or two for the big bruisers. Some anglers are catching trout on dry flies.

This is a hike-in lake (the trail is steep) and is best fished with float tubes or other inflatables. Chevelon Lake is open to artificial lure and flies only, with a six-trout bag and possession limit. Trout between 10 and 14 inches may not be possessed and any trout kept outside this slot must be killed immediately and retained as part of the bag limit. Try lures such as spinners, Z-rays, Super Dupers, and Rapalas, and flies such as wooly worms or buggers, semi-seal leeches, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, and zug bugs. Some fly-fishermen are catching trout on dry flies. Try dry flies such as Adams, parachute Adams, humpies, and royal wulff. Chevelon Lake is a remote hike-in lake with difficult access. The lake is open to 10 hp gas motors.

BEAR CANYON LAKE — Fishing is fair to good and the lake is nearly full (down about 1 to 1.5 feet).

This is a walk-in lake. There is a short but very steep hike down to the lake (and back up), but there is plentiful shoreline access and some pretty nice hiking trails. This lake is very popular with float tube anglers. You might even hear elk bugling. This is in prime squirrel hunting territory.

Try worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, Z-rays, Super Dupers, and Rapalas, and flies such as wooly worms or buggers, semi-seal leeches, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, and zug bugs. If trout are taking insects on the surface try dry flies such as Adams, parachute Adams, and midge patterns.

The lake is open to electric trolling motors only. Bear Canyon Lake is a steep hike in lake with moderate (north side and south side trail) to difficult (west side trail) access.

BLACK CANYON LAKE — The lake is down approximately 6-7 feet and the boat ramp is very low, so use caution when launching a boat. Fishing is fair. Try fishing with worms off rocky areas for bass and sunfish. The most recent water temperature was 77 degrees.

Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, Super Dupers, Z-rays, KastMasters, crankbaits, and Rapalas, and flies such as peacock ladies, wooly worms or wooly buggers, prince nymphs and zug bugs. The lake is open to electric motors only. Try fishing with worms off rocky areas for bass and sunfish.

BLUE RIDGE — Fishing is best from a boat. There is limited shoreline access. Fishing from a boat or float tube is the best way to go using small crayfish imitating plugs and black spinners. Shore fishing was slow and shore access is limited.

Dan Goodwin and his wife took two or their grandchildren fishing for the third time in their lives and the nine-year-old, Vicky, caught a 19.5-inch rainbow weighing around 4 pounds using worms.

There are some large brown trout is this reservoir and browns spawn in the fall. Once the water temperatures drop some, expect the brown trout to start staging for the spawn.

Mark Miconi hooked and lost three rainbows on Sept. 8 during the first hour of daylight, but the bite seemed to die after that. He did see lots of small fry in the water along the shore, but his depth finder showed the water temperature stratified (thermocline) and the surface temperature was 73 degrees.

Mike and Nancy said they trolled using small red and silver “dime-a-dot” lures and caught 10 trout in 5.5 hours, with the largest measuring 11.5 inches. “Nice day of fishing in such a beautiful lake.”

KNOLL LAKE — A father and two sons report catching-and-releasing 60 trout in three days of fishing, while also harvesting lots of tree squirrels, seeing elk, and watching wild turkey.

WILLOW SPRINGS LAKE — Fishing is fair to good, depending on the day. Two large rainbow trout, weighing 6.4 and 8.2 pounds, were caught near the dam in July on yellow Power Bait and worms. The lake is down 2 feet and the boat ramp is accessible.

Anglers report catching limits of trout, including some larger fish up to eight pounds.

This lake does have some brown trout. Browns spawn in the fall. Let us know if you catch any.

Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, Super Dupers, Z-rays, KastMasters, and Rapalas, and flies such as wooly worms or wooly buggers, black or brown semi-seal leeches, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, and zug bugs. The lake is open to 10 hp gas motors. This lake also has largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and crappie.

WOODS CANYON LAKE — Arnold S. and his two sons caught-and-released 61 trout in about six hours fishing shallow rocky areas two weekends ago. Most were small but a few in the 14-inch range. “First light before the sun hits the water is prime; 17 fish between the three of us in about 45 minutes on Saturday. Once the sun hit the water it was like someone flipping a switch. We had to head to the other side of the lake where it was deeper and had more shade. Plus, then came the wind, horrible, horrible wind. Sunday the kids stayed in the truck because it was too darn cold and windy. I fished from about 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and landed 9 rainbows. One of them was a 23-inch 4 pounder. It was awesome. Biggest trout I ever caught.”

This lake has received bonus stockings of rainbow trout this summer. Fishing is good. The lake is nearly full.

Try worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, Super Dupers, Z-Rays, and Rapalas, and flies such as peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, wooly worms or wooly buggers. Try trolling cowbells, lures, or flies with worms. The lake is open to electric trolling motors only. The store is open and boat rentals are available.

White Mountains
ACCESS (with some recent changes): State Highway 261 is open to Big Lake and Crescent Lake.

State Highway 273 on the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest is undergoing reconstruction and realignment and the following closures are in effect.

State Highway 273 from the Forest and Fort Apache Indian Reservation boundary to Gabaldon Campground is closed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and will remain closed until the road construction project is complete.

The southern part of State Highway 273 from Crescent Lake to Gabaldon Campground is closed each week beginning Mondays at 6 a.m. through Thursdays at 6 p.m.

Access from Crescent Lake to Gabaldon Campground will only be open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. There is no longer any access to Lee Valley Lake.

BECKER LAKE — The boat ramp is accessible. Fishing is fair to good. Anglers have been catching 10-13 inch rainbow trout with an occasional fish over 15 inches. Try lures such as spinners, Super Dupers, and Z-rays, flies such as wooly worms and wooly buggers, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, Hares ear nymphs, dragonfly imitations, midge imitations, and brown Montana stone nymphs. The lake is open to artificial lure and fly with barbless hooks only, with a two trout bag and possession limit. No bait fishing is allowed. The lake is open to electric trolling motors or up to 10 hp. gas motors.

BIG LAKE — Joe Guin said the brooks are not anywhere close to spawn yet. Fished all day, did not catch single brook, which is very unusual for us at Big Lake. Got there at 9 a.m., started by store for two hours, not one nibble. Moved to far south cove of lake and from 12:30 to about 3 p.m., could not keep a worm in the water. Best part was my son caught two 18-inch rainbows that were around 1.5-2-pound range. The rest were about 8-12 inches, and all of them were very fat. Store operator also said brooks are not spawning yet, weather was too mild, that they haven t even started coloring yet. Overall caught limit of 9 (my son is 13), released a lot more, over 20 fish caught in that span. Also saw bald eagle right in front of us catch his lunch. Truly incredible day.

Robert Spikes and his wife caught-and-released around 30 trout, including a 19-inch, 3-pound one, using salmon eggs fished from the bank at South Cove. “The fish were striking before it would hit bottom. Everybody seemed to be doing well at South Cove.”

Tracy Vincent Long used red, white and blue rainbow Power Bait and pretty much caught a fish with every cast. “Best trout fishing trip in a long time.”

Fishing is good for 10-12 inch trout. Fishing is about as good as it gets and could remain this way right until ice-up.

Try worms, meal worms, Power Bait, salmon eggs, lures such as spinners, Super Dupers, Z-rays, KastMasters, Rapalas, and flies such as wooly worms or wooly buggers, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, and brown Montana stone nymphs. Boat anglers may want to try trolling worms on lures, flies or behind cowbells. The lake is open to electric trolling motors or up to 10 hp gas motors.

ACCESS: State Highway 261 is open from Eager. State Highway 273 will be closed throughout the year for road construction. State Highway 273 from Crescent Lake to Gabaldon Campground will be closed each week from Mondays at 6 a.m. through Thursdays at 6 p.m. Access from Crescent Lake to Gabaldon Campground will only be open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The boat ramps are low, but still usable.

CARNERO LAKE — The lake is weedy. Fishing is fair. Try small spinners, jigs and spoons, and flies such as wooly worms, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, and small brown, black or green nymphs. Carnero is open to artificial lure and fly only with barbless hooks and a two-trout limit. No bait fishing is allowed. This lake doesn’t have a boat ramp, so most float tubers launch at the fence line. The lake is open to electric trolling motors only.

CLEAR CREEK RESERVOIR — Fishing is fair for bullheads and sunfish, fair for bass, and poor for trout. Try fishing off the bottom with worms. Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures (spinners, Z-rays, and spoons, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and Rapalas), and flies (wooly worms or wooly buggers, zug bugs, prince nymphs, and peacock ladies). The northeast boat ramps are usable but the middle boat ramp is steep and has soft sand. There is also an old concrete dam structure across from the middle boat ramp so use caution when motoring on the lake. There are no motor restrictions on the lake when using larger watercraft. Clear Creek Reservoir has largemouth bass, sunfish, black bullheads, and channel catfish.

CONCHO LAKE— The lake is low and weedy. The boat ramp is very low. Fishing is poor. Try worms, meal worms, Power Bait, salmon eggs, and lures such as spinners, spoons, Super Dupers, Z-rays, and flies such as wooly worms and wooly buggers, prince nymphs, zug bugs, and hares ear nymphs. The lake is open to electric trolling motors or up to 10 hp. gas motors.

CRESCENT LAKE — Fish netting surveys on Oct.17 resulted in fair numbers of good sized rainbow trout. Trout ranged in size from 14.6 inches to 19 inches, averaging 16.5 inches. No brook trout were caught. Fishing is poor to fair. The lake is down about 8 feet. The boat ramps are low but accessible except the north boat ramp, which is very low and muddy. Access to the north and west boat ramp is only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The south boat ramp is open seven days a week. The Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, Super Dupers, Z-rays, and flies such as peacock ladies, wooly worms and wooly buggers, prince nymphs, zug bugs, brown Montana stone nymphs.

ACCESS: Highway 261 is open from Eager. Highway 273 will be closed for the year for road construction. State Highway 273 from Crescent Lake to Gabaldon Campground is closed from 6 a.m. Mondays through 6 p.m. Thursdays, but will only be open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The lake is open to 10 hp motors. The store is closed.

FOOL HOLLOW LAKE — The lake is down about one foot. All boat ramps are accessible. Fishing has been fair. Anglers have been catching trout, smallmouth bass, crappies, and sunfish. Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, Super Dupers, Mister Twister worms (chartreuse green, brown or gray with silver specks) on ¼-ounce lead head jigs, crankbaits, and Rapalas, and flies such as peacock ladies, wooly worms and wooly buggers and semi-seal leeches. Boat anglers may want to try trolling lures or flies with an attached worm. Fish near structure such as rocks, trees, weed beds, and fishing piers. Fool Hollow State Park has excellent camping facilities. Anglers wishing to fish the lake for free must use the southwest side boat ramp and parking area. A fee is charged for use of the other facilities including the east side boat ramp. The lake is open to electric trolling motors or up to 10 hp. gas motors.

GREER LAKES — All reservoirs are very low. Bunch and River Reservoir boat ramps are not usable. Tunnel Reservoir’s boat ramp is usable but very low. Please use caution when launching a boat. Canoes or float tubes are recommended. Fishing is poor to fair. Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners and spoons, and flies such as wooly worms and wooly buggers, peacock ladies, and small nymphs. Bunch and Tunnel Reservoirs are open to electric trolling motors only. River Reservoir is open to 10 hp. gas motors.

HULSEY LAKE — Fishing is poor to fair. Anglers have been catching trout on night crawlers. Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as small spinners and spoons, and flies such as woolly worms, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, and zug bugs. During the summertime, weed growth is present along the shoreline areas. The lake is a short hike (moderately steep) in fishery.

LEE VALLEY RESERVOIR — The lake is inaccessible until further notice, due to road construction.

Access: State Highway 273 from Sunrise Lake to Gabaldon Campground is closed for the year for road construction.

LUNA LAKE — Fishing is fair. The lake is nearly full. The boat ramp is accessible. Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, small spoons, Z-rays, or flies such as wooly worms or wooly buggers, prince nymphs, zug bugs, and other small nymphs in brown, green or black. The lake is open to electric trolling motors or up to10 hp gas motors.

LYMAN LAKE —The left boat ramp is accessible. Fishing is fair. Anglers have been catching channel catfish on hot dogs, chicken livers, and prepared baits. Try worms, meal worms, and catfish prepared baits. The Lyman Lake Recreation Area is managed by Lyman Lake State Park and camping is available. There are also some new cabins for rent. There is a fish consumption advisory here. Consult the fishing regulations or contact the Arizona Game and Fish Regional office in Pinetop for more information. The lake has no motor restrictions.

NELSON RESERVOIR — The bag limit for rainbow and brown trout is unlimited at Nelson Reservoir from Sept. 1 through March 31, Statewide fishing gear restrictions still apply. The lake is down about 2 feet. The boat ramp at the dam is recommended. The upper boat ramp is usable but weedy. The middle boat ramp and road is closed. Fishing is fair. Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners and Z-rays, flies such as wooly worms or wooly buggers, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, and other small brown, green, or black nymphs. The lake is open to electric trolling motors or up to10 hp gas motors.

RAINBOW LAKE — The lake is weedy and down about 6 feet. The fishing pier is being disassembled. Fishing is poor to fair. Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, Z-rays, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and Rapalas, and flies such as wooly worms or wooly buggers, semi-seal leeches, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, and brown Montana stone nymphs. We are encouraging anglers to keep all northern pike that are caught. Northern pike are not desirable in Rainbow Lake because they eat stocked rainbow trout and small bass and we want them removed. The lake is open to electric trolling motors or up to10 hp. gas motors.

SCOTT’S RESERVOIR — The reservoir is down about 8 feet. The boat ramp is now usable due to gravel placement from the concrete boat ramp to the water’s edge. The water is slightly murky. Fishing is fair to good. Boat and shore anglers are catching a few trout, bass and sunfish on lures, flies, and worms. One northern pike was caught during spring gill net surveys. Please report anybody that is moving fish from one location to another. It is illegal to stock any fish in public or private waters without a proper stocking permit. This illegal activity spoils angling opportunities for most other anglers. Try worms, meal worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, Z-rays, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and Rapalas, and flies such as wooly worms or wooly buggers, brown Montana stone nymphs, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, and zug bugs. The lake is open to electric motors only. Recent gill net surveys produced lots of largemouth bass, trout, and a few channel catfish and sunfish.

SHOW LOW LAKE — The lake is down about 5-6 feet. Fishing is fair to good. Try worms, salmon eggs, mealworms, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, Z-rays, ¼-ounce lead head jigs (chartreuse green, and brown, or gray with silver specks), Rapalas, and flies such as wooly worms and wooly buggers, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, and semi seal leeches for trout. Anglers have been catching trout trolling cowbells and lures with worms. Shore anglers have been catching trout and walleyes on Rapalas and night crawlers. Walleyes, trout, and smallmouth bass are being caught by anglers trolling Rapalas and casting jigs with an attached night crawler along rocky shoreline areas early in the morning and in the evening. The lake is open to electric trolling motors or up to 10 hp. gas motors. The store is open. Boat rentals are available.

SILVER CREEK — Silver Creek on the Arizona Game and Fish Department property is now open to catch-and-release fishing, artificial lure and fly only and barbless hooks only from Oct. 1 through March 31. The upper section (big fence boundary) is open to fishing. Fishing is good. Try small lures such as Mepps, Rooster Tail, and Panther Martin spinners. Fish upstream or downstream.

Fly-fishing anglers may want to try peacock ladies, beadhead black or green wooly buggers, prince nymphs, zug bugs, bead head nymphs, mayfly and caddis fly nymph imitations, and shrimp patterns. Fish your flies upstream and dead drift them downstream or cast your fly downstream and retrieve the fly slowly upstream. Try small dry flies such as Adams, parachute Adams, midge imitations, and caddis fly patterns in sizes #16 or #18 or # 20. Night crawlers, Power Bait, and mealworms work well. The stream was stocked the first week in October.

WOODLAND LAKE — The boat ramp is usable but weedy. The lake is down about 6 feet. The lake is weedy. The water is slightly murky. Fishing is poor to fair. The lake is experiencing high pH levels. Fish early in the morning when water temperatures and pH are low. Try worms, salmon eggs, meal worms, Power Bait, lures such as spinners, Z-rays, small spoons, and Rapalas, and flies such as wooly worms and wooly buggers, prince nymphs, zug bugs, and other small nymphs. Anglers have been catching largemouth bass off the fishing pier on lures. Woodland Lake is a city park with picnic tables, Veranda’s, restrooms, volleyball and softball courts, hiking trails, boat ramp, and a fishing pier. The lake is open to electric motors only.

WHITE MOUNTAIN STREAMS:

WEST FORK OF BLACK RIVER –The stream was last stocked with catchable size Apache trout just before Labor Day. Try worms, meal worms, and salmon eggs, lures such as small spinners and spoons, and flies such as wooly worms, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, and small black, brown or green nymphs.

EAST FORK OF BLACK RIVER –The stream was last stocked with catchable size apache trout just before Labor Day. Try worms, meal worms, and salmon eggs, lures such as small spinners and spoons, and flies such as wooly worms, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, and small black, brown or green nymphs.

SHEEPS CROSSING – Not accessible. Highway 273 is closed for the year due to road construction.

LITTLE COLORADO RIVER – GREER –The stream was last stocked with catchable size Apache trout just before Labor Day. Try worms, meal worms, and salmon eggs, small lures such as spinners and spoons, and flies such as wooly worms, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, and small black, brown or green nymphs.

Southeastern Arizona
TUCSON URBAN — Channel catfish are being stocked this week.

RIGGS FLAT —The road to the lake will be closed for the season on Nov. 15. The lake has been stocked recently and fishing has been good. Be prepared for cold temperatures though!

CLUFF RANCH — Fishing for warmwater species is slow with a few reports of largemouth bass being caught. For lake information call (928) 485-9430.

ROPER LAKE — Fishing for all warmwater species is slow with early morning and late evening being the best opportunity. For lake information call (928) 428-6760.

DANKWORTH POND — No reports on success. For lake information call (928) 428-6760.

FRYE MESA RESERVIOR – The fishing should begin to pick up with cooler temperatures. The road to Frye Mesa is in fair condition and is currently passable with a two-wheel drive vehicle. Use caution because the road is steep and narrow in places.

KEARNY LAKES — This lake remains fishless due to golden algae.

ARIVACA — The water levels remain high while the aquatic vegetation remains absent. The fishing has been good to excellent. The Department is aware of the algae bloom and will monitor water quality. Remember, powerboats on Arivaca Lake are restricted to the use of a single electric motor only, and all bass must be immediately released back to the water.

The mercury advisory for all fish is still in effect. Also, be aware of the boating regulations, specifically those pertaining to personal flotation devices. If you are not in compliance, you are subject to receiving a citation and being ordered off of the water until the problem is corrected.

PENA BLANCA – Yosh Packard said the lake is still very weedy until you get passed concrete walkway by the old resort. Shore anglers are very limited with access. Trout fishing was slow for most, but I was able to get consistent bites throughout the day.

Repairs to the boat ramp have been completed and the ramp is now open to the public. Efforts have now turned to removing the aquatic vegetation prior to the start of the trout stocking. The best bet for shore anglers is the area toward the dam, where the weed growth is minimal. The mercury advisory for all warm water fish is in effect. Bass less than 13 inches long must be immediately released. The daily bag limit for bass is four. Also, be advised that Pena Blanca is not an urban lake; therefore an urban fishing license is invalid to fish at this lake. Trout stocking will begin the first week of November.

PATAGONIA — Fishing for largemouth is beginning to slow with cooler temperatures. Spinner baits remain the bait of choice for bass anglers. The lake is full. Trout stocking will begin the first week of November.

Karl Reinartz said fishing was great, he caught 10 bass between 4 and 6 pounds. The bite was subtle but the bigger fish were biting. All fish were weighed. Saw a guy that was pulling in the crappie

PARKER CANYON — The lake is full. The department is aware of the algae bloom occurring at the lake and will monitor water quality. The lake has been stocked with trout. Fishing remains fair for all species but is expected to slow with cooler temperatures. Some nice bluegills continue to be caught on night crawlers and meal worms. Recent reports are that bass are hitting spinner baits.

PICACHO RESERVOIR — No Report.

ROSE CANYON LAKE — Recent reports suggest low oxygen conditions at the lake. No dead fish have been reported at this time. Water quality will be checked this week although there is not much that can be done to prevent these conditions at this time. The access road was closed Oct. 31. Anglers can still access the lake by walking in. The lake was stocked last week. Anglers have been catching fish with power bait of various colors. Fly anglers are also having success in the early morning and late afternoon as fish feed at the surface. In addition to the normal catchable rainbow trout, the lake was also stocked with some smaller brown trout during this last stocking. It is expected that these fish will over-winter and be of larger size next fishing season.

From AZGFD:

New Web page launched on Kofa bighorn sheep management efforts

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has launched a new Web page that provides information about ongoing activities intended to restore the desert bighorn sheep population on the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge in southwestern Arizona. The Web address for the page is www.azgfd.gov/w_c/bhsheep/index.shtml

For 50 years, the 435 square miles of Kofa desert bighorn sheep habitat has been a critical source of animals used to restore and sustain bighorn sheep populations throughout Arizona, as well as in Texas, New Mexico and Colorado.

The results of the last triennial population survey in 2006 revealed that the declining population noted during the 2003 survey had deteriorated to only 390 animals, the lowest number recorded under this survey program. The resulting joint Department-U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service “Investigative Report and Recommendations on the Kofa Bighorn Sheep Herd,” documented those agencies’ long-term commitment to restoring this resource.

“The Kofa National Wildlife Refuge has friends and fans all over the world,” said Gary Hovatter, public information officer in the Department’s Yuma office. “This website will be a place to find information, reference materials, and monthly program updates, and to provide those who love the Kofa a way to contribute their thoughts, suggestions, and photographs.”

Reader Ron Kearns has contacted me to let me know that he has contacted G&F regarding some errors that need to be corrected on the new site. Ron is a former Kofa biologist and frequently comments on this site, particular on topics related to management practices such as this one. I suspect that Ron will chime in here, at some point.

From AZGFD:

Volunteers need to build Pisces pyramids fish habitat at Canyon Lake

Come help build Pisces pyramids at Canyon Lake to help improve this classic fishery along the Salt River.

Volunteers are needed to help at Canyon Lake from Nov. 17 to Dec. 16 when the Arizona Game and Fish Department will be installing artificial habitats at strategic locations on the lake bottom while the water level is down 50 feet for conducting routine maintenance on the dam.

Volunteers will be helping move tree limbs, cement blocks, and wooden pallets to construct Pisces pyramids (artificial habitats). Work hours will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To volunteer, contact Natalie Robb with Game and Fish at (480) 324-3541.

On Oct. 30, the department bolstered Canyon Lake’s smallmouth population by stocking some bronzebacks imported from Illinois. In mid November, Canyon will also receive its first installment of largemouth bass.

Canyon Lake, along with Saguaro and Apache lakes, has had fish die-offs the last several years due to golden alga blooms. The department is conducting a multi-year effort to improve these fisheries.

OK, some miscellaneous notes….

I spoke with Brenda quite awhile back - late August actually. I had it in my head that I was going to post some other interviews first; unfortunately life got in the way. Finally, I got this posted. I’ll get back to the other interviews in the coming weeks.

I don’t get “starstruck” very easily. When I spoke with Brenda, I was stammering like a schoolboy, and nervous as heck. I don’t know if it was because she is one of the most recognizable hunting celebrities out there, or because she’s pretty as all get out. It may be because she can hunt circles around me. That cool southern accent definitely had something to do with it. All in all, I loved talking with her, and she really is down to earth, funny, and intelligent as well. I hope to meet her face-to-face one of these days.

After some scheduling via e-mail, I finally had a chance to speak with Brenda one morning (via telephone). She was in her Puryear, Tennessee office. After some pleasantries were exchanged, the interview began.

1) First, I asked Brenda “How did you get here?”

Brenda told me that she “couldn’t take much credit” for where she is today. She said that her success was a product of some luck, and good timing. She told me that she thought the hunting industry was ready to allow a lady hunter into the industry, and that she offered genuine credibility. Brenda was busy in the late 80s and early 90s shooting archery - IBO tournaments and 3D matches in her town. She was doing well, and as Brenda put it “Word got around”. The PSE rep bumped into her at some point - eventually he paid her a visit and offered her a sponsorship. Up until now, Brenda had never been out of Tennessee. The following year, PSE approached her and asked her to join a National Team. In 1991 she was a part of a 3-lady team that one the National Title. Shortly after that the VP of PSE called her to let her know about Browning. In 1995, representing Browning, Brenda was sent to an event at Bass Pro Shops. There she ran into Bill Jordan of Realtree, who offered her a job, on the spot. Brenda’s popularity continued to snowball. Today, she is a writer, TV personality, photographer, videographer, seminar speaker, and more.

2) I asked Brenda of all her career areas (writing, tv, radio, seminar speaker, etc.) - What did she enjoy doing, the most?

Brenda replied “I like them all - because there is a mixture, you don’t get so burnt out. I do like seminars - I get to meet a lot of people.”

3) “Being a country girl, how have you adjusted to all of the fame?”

“Nothing has changed. I still gain friends and fans, one at a time. I try to personally answer every phone call, and every e-mail. I still hoe my tomatoes. I still clean my stalls. I still plant food plots. I mow the yard. I live pretty simply.”

4) Next I asked her “Can you ever just “go hunting”?

Brenda told me that it’s hard. For example from the 1st of September until mid-January, she was going on thirteen different big game hunts. She did tell me that she had just recently gone squirrel hunting with her grandson. Her husband did take the video camera along, but it was mostly for fun and her grandson had a great time.

5) I asked Brenda if she prefers hunting with her bow, her rifle, or her muzzleloader.

“Mostly, I prefer bowhunting. But TV shows require hunting in a variety of seasons, so I have to use them all. I probably like shotguns the least.”

6) What is your favorite animal to hunt?

“Whitetail deer”, Brenda replied without hesitation. “Day in, day out - nothing matches the challenge of hunting whitetails.”

7) I was curious about what Brenda thought was her most memorable hunt.

“Oooh - I’ve had a lot of memorable hunts. One of my most memorable was hunting bear and mountain lions in Northern Idaho, with hounds. I think that this is one of the toughest hunts in North America. I did a 16-day horseback huntin Alaska that was real cool. Once I went on a 7-day float trip in Northern Alberta - that was a real adventure!”

8 ) “Any hunts that you haven’t been on yet, that you want to do?”

“I haven’t hunted big coastal grizzlies yet. I’m not usually interested in the goats and sheep, but I have a Dall tag in Alaska next week. That will be a first. I love Africa - you never know what is going to show up. I’d like to hunt elk in Arizona, and mountain lion, too.” I asked her if she’s hunted Coues deer yet. “Nope, not yet - they’re little!” Brenda teased me about Arizona and how “stingy” we are with tags. That treatment isn’t exclusive to non-residents, I assured her.

9) I have always been intrigued by sponsorships. “Are sponsorships something you work at? Or do they come to you? Tell me a little about sponsorships..”

“I learned early on that in order to be successful, I needed to set criteria for the relationship between me and the companies. First - I need to really believe in the the product. If you don’t believe in it, it will be hard to promote it. The public will sense it too. That doesn’t do you or the company making the product any favors. Second - the people who own the company have to be good, decent people. Most of the time this has worked, and I have ended up staying with companies for years.

10) “So, what’s left in your career? What next?”

“Hmm - I don’t know, there’s a lot left to do. The direction in which I am leaning is promoting the lifestyle and industry. I’m trying to impress on people just how fragile things are. The antis are chipping away at us.” I commented to Ms. Valentine how I bristled when I saw hunters putting down other hunters - hunters against baiting, crossbows, inline blackpowder rifles, etc. “I agree”, she said. “Hunters are notorious for division. Everyone who is against us counts on that. Keep separating us, and attack what is left.”
“I love getting kids involved”, she continued. “I think it is important for hunters to stay aware of legislation. They need to research political candidates. We need to preserve our heritage and continue passing it down to future generations. I think hunting is valuable in that it provides a sense of normalcy to the world; hunting is the right thing, it is inborne in people. Hunters are active in preserving wildlife. I’m going to continue to work on projects that raise money for habitat conservation.”

11) “Does it ever feel like work?”

“Sure, but not the hunting part. I’m tired of airports. I have days where I’m tired of sitting out somewhere, in a wall tent in the rain. I get tired of packing and unpacking. Once I’m back out in the field though - on a stalk or in a treestand waiting for that big buck - I’m doing something I love.”

12) I asked how her book was doing.

“Well, it’s been out for a couple of years, and it is doing fairly well. I haven’t had much time to promote it though. It still sells out at sports shows. I wrote it mostly for my own self-satisfaction, but it is still nice to see it doing well.”

Brenda has a great website set up here. She has a ton of interesting stuff there. You can order her book here. I hope to be able to post a review in the future. I have 2 missions now - to get Brenda Valentine here on a Coues hunt, and to get her to sign a copy of her book for me, next time she’s in town!

What a classy lady, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to have spoken with her. I wish her all the best!

We have all heard about or witnessed the power of the internet… often for bad things. Whether it’s a horror story about an internet stalker, or the bloodbath that ensued after Jim Zumbo’s fated blog post - there are lots of examples out there.

Now let’s see an example of good. Read this thread on the HuntingPA message board. It will make you mist up, guaranteed. Bravo to those folks over on that board.

A peek at how it all started:

Good morning Gentlemen- I am a pair of hunters’ mom- and am looking for members of the club , that is located just south of the camp ground north of Kittaning. My grandfather was raised there- and my fifteen year old son (his great-grandson) is squirrel hunting with the .410 side by side that he used when he was fifteen. Is there anyone who knows who owns that land now? I would love for my sons to squirrel hunt there- just once- we live in Maryland- so it couldn’t be a regular thing. Anyone out there who can help?

Thanks for the good luck wishes- My boys lost their Dad in January 2006- to leukemia- but he left them with a powerful love of the outdoors and a respect for hunting traditions. We were in PA two weekends ago for a family gathering- and I took my youngest to see the woods where his Great-Grandpa was raised- and he totally gets it- made me stop the car- so he could take pictures. He doesn’t know that I’m trying to get him access- I’m just hoping that if I put this out there- if it is meant to be- the right person will read this. So thanks- and good hunting to you!

Go take a look here and make sure you read the whole thing!!