AUGUST 2019 $4.

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Woods-n-Water News
Michigan’s Premier Outdoor Publication

SUMMER
BUCKS
HOT BITE
'EYES
CISCOES
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MAKE YOUR
HUNTS
PRODUCTIVE
• Michigan Continues Early Detection Efforts for Invasive Carp
• Greatest Smallmouth Lure • Crankbaits Summer and Fall
• Life Before Wireless Electric Motors • Rails to Trails for All
www.woods-n-waternews.com • www.outdoorweekend.net
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 3
 By Tom Campbell

NRC approves CWD deer regulations

T
he NRC approved sev-
eral major deer hunting
regulations for this season
(2019) at their July meet-
ing. Obviously the regula-
tions are in an attempt to slow the
spread of chronic wasting disease
(CWD). The regulations were cre-
ated with public input and by evalu-
ating and using the best available
science.
A brief reminder; “CWD is a
fatal neurological (brain and nervous
system) disease found in cervids
(deer, elk and moose). The disease
attacks the brain of an infected ani-
mal and produces small lesions that
result in death. There is no cure; once
an animal is infected, it will die.”
According to the DNR, “Public
input is an extremely important part
of any discussion surrounding the
care of Michigan’s natural resourc-
es,” Vicki Pontz, NRC chairperson
said. “We want to thank the hunt-
ers and others who took the time to
all Deer and Deer Combo licenses
for these counties. According to the
DNR, “This is part of an experimen-
tal APR to determine the impacts of
APRs on deer populations in an area
of known CWD occurrence. Require
that established department goals for
management of antlerless deer be
achieved, if this experimental APR is
to continue.”
Of course baiting and feeding
deer is a major concern for many
hunters and the NRC will continue
a ban on baiting and feeding in the
entire Lower Peninsula that took
effect at the end of January 2019.
(There is an exception to this ban
for hunters with disabilities during
the Liberty and Independence hunts.
Qualifying hunters are allowed to use
two-gallons at a time of single-bite
baits during deer seasons).
Now, in the Upper Peninsula the
DNR will, “Allow baiting and feed-
ing in the Upper Peninsula except for
a ban, effective immediately, in the
where additional regulations will
apply.
• Move the Liberty Hunt to the
second weekend in September. Based
on this change, the 2019 Liberty
Hunt will be held Sept. 14-15 instead
of Sept. 21-22 as it was previously
scheduled. The early antlerless sea-
son – held on private land in select
counties – will continue to be held
the third weekend in September
(Sept. 21-22).
• Change the deer baiting start
date for hunters with disabilities who
meet specific requirements. Baiting
for these individuals can occur five
days before and during the second
Saturday in September.
• Require that scents placed to
entice deer, whether composed of
natural or synthetic materials, be
placed so that they are inaccessible
for consumption by deer and placed
in such a manner to prohibit any
physical contact with deer.
• In the Upper Peninsula, rein-
state the antlerless option during ar-
chery deer season for hunters hunting
on the Deer License or Deer Combo
License in areas open to antlerless
licenses.
• In the Upper Peninsula, elimi-
nate antler point restrictions in the
Core CWD Surveillance Area, and
allow the use of crossbows in the late
archery season in the Core Area.
• Require that deer collected with
a salvage permit as a result of colli-
sion with a motor vehicle may not be
removed from the county where the
animal was killed to prevent poten-
tial spread of CWD.
More information about these
new deer hunting and baiting regula-
tions also will be posted next week
to the Michigan.gov/CWD webpage.
For additional questions, contact the
DNR Wildlife Division by email at
DNR-Wildlife@michigan.gov or by
phone at 517-284-9453.n

Michigan’s new
attend a public meeting or write an Core CWD Surveillance Area. This
email and share their ideas about core area comprises some 660 square
how best to strengthen Michigan’s miles, defined by major roadways

conservation officers
wildlife populations for future gen- within portions of Menominee,
erations.” Delta and Dickinson counties around
“Chronic wasting disease first the single case of a CWD-positive
was discovered in Michigan in a deer found last year in the Upper
free-ranging deer in May 2015. Peninsula. (Consistent with regula-
To date, more than 60,000 deer in tions in the Lower Peninsula, there
Michigan have been tested for CWD is an exception to the baiting ban in
and it has been confirmed in 120 the U.P. Core Area for hunters with
free-ranging deer in nine Michigan disabilities during the Liberty and
counties: Clinton, Dickinson, Eaton, Independence hunts).
Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Jackson, Other changes approved by the NRC
Kent and Montcalm.” and posted on the DNR website
One noticeable new hunting include…
regulation in Mecosta, Montcalm • In the Lower Peninsula, add
and Ionia is the implementation of a Barry, Lenawee and Midland coun- Several communities throughout Michigan are gaining new conservation
4-point antler point restriction across ties to the CWD Management Zone, officers from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Since graduat-
ing in December from the DNR’s 23-week Conservation Officer Recruit School
#9 in Lansing, the officers have traveled the state completing their field training
SEASONS program and gaining diverse experience as probationary officers.
“The process for becoming a Michigan DNR conservation officer includes
Open All Year – Pike and walleye season on Lower Peninsula Great Lakes, Lake St. several phases,” said F/Lt. Jason Wicklund. “We want to ensure that our new
Clair & St. Clair & Detroit Rivers officers are able to apply what they learned in the academy and use those skills
Open All Year – Salmon and trout season on Great Lakes, St. Marys River, Lake St. in real-life scenarios, in addition to learning new skills from the field training
Clair & St. Clair & Detroit Rivers officers they are partnered with.”
Open All Year – Catch-and-immediate-release bass season on all Michigan waters
open to fishing
The new conservation officers received their permanent county assignments
Now - Aug. 1 – Fall Turkey Hunt application period prior to graduating from the academy. After graduation, conservation officers
Now - Aug. 15 – Antlerless Deer License application period must complete three phases of probationary training before they move into their
Now - December 31 – 2020 Pure Michigan Hunt application period permanent county assignments.
Now - March 15 – Walleye, pike season on Lower Peninsula inland waters. While their primary mission is to enforce fish, game and natural resource
Now - Sept. 30 – Salmon and trout Inland type 1 and 2 streams and type A and D lakes protection laws, conservation officers serve a unique role as certified peace of-
Now - March 15 – Walleye, pike season on Upper Peninsula Great Lakes, inland ficers with authority to enforce all of Michigan’s criminal laws. Because of their
waters and St. Marys River. specialized training and equipment, conservation officers often are first respond-
Now - Dec. 31 – Bass catch and keep season on all waters, including Great Lakes, ers to situations involving medical emergencies, missing persons and public
Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River and Detroit River. safety threats.
Now - March 15 – Muskie season on all Great Lakes, inland waters and St. Marys The academy involved off-road training to operate specialized vehicles,
River. such as four-wheel-drive trucks, ORVs, snowmobiles and patrol boats – every-
Now - Dec. 31 – Muskie season on Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River and Detroit River. day tools used by conservation officers to patrol Michigan’s natural resources.
Now - March 15 – Otsego Lake sturgeon hook and line season. Recruits took several trips to specialized training locations throughout Michi-
Now - March 15 – Detroit River sturgeon catch-and-immediate-release. gan, including the Camp Grayling Training Center, the GM Proving Grounds in
Now - Sept. 30 – Lake St. Clair and St. Clair River sturgeon hook and line season Milford and the Ingham County Jail, in addition to completing scenario testing
Sept. 14-15 – Liberty Hunt: Youth and Hunters with Disabilities
Sept. 15 - Mar. 31 – Cottontail and Hare Season
at several parks.
Sept. 21-22 – Early Antlerless Firearm, specific areas and regulations Founded in 1887, the DNR Law Enforcement Division is Michigan’s oldest
statewide law enforcement agency. Learn more about the work of conserva-
*Consult the Michigan Hunting and Trapping Digests, Fishing Digest, or other species-
specific hunting digests for a more complete list of dates and regulations regarding each tion officers and explore the Recruit School #9 weekly blog posts and photos at
season or hunt period. Michigan.gov/ConservationOfficers.
4 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 5

Fly-fishing Lessons...Roll Cast
William T. Mangan page 84
TURKEY
POACHERS
Jeff Pendergraff...page 10
HUNTING
The world’s most prolific doe
John Ozoga page 33
2018 Deer Harvest
and Hunters Down
Richard P. Smith page 34
Improving your Accuracy
Darin Potter page 38
Dog Training...
Pointing, Flushing,
Retrieving Breeds
Len Jenkins page 40
Cover Story...
SUMMER BUCKS
Kenny Darwin page 42
World class bowfishing
adventures on Saginaw Bay
Tom Lounsbury page 66
FISHING
Sandra Clark/Kathleen Lavey
My Greatest Smallmouth Lure
Kenny Darwin page 12
CISCO...
It’s what’s for dinner
Mark Romanack page 22
Keep the Summer Bite Hot
Gary Parsons/Keith Kavajecz
page 26
Mid-summer into fall...
a crankbait can do it all
Mark Martin page 30
Warm Weather Walleyes
George Rowe page 32
COVER PHOTOS
By Kenny Darwin
6 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
Life before Wireless TRAIL CAM PHOTOS Friends of the
Electric Motors page 80 Shiawassee River
Mark Romanack page 36 Nathan Miller page 58
Sporting Collectibles...
Summer’s Fiery Fishing The Style C, William Comanche
John Bergsma page 46 Shakespeare Jr.’s first reel Darryl Quidort page 64
Terry McBurney page 82
River Rockets! Dear Fish Diary...
Mean, Lean and Green New Invasive Species Alert!
Joe Bednar page 54 NEWS and this one is a doosy...
Northern Michigan’s Ron St. Germain page 68
Michigan continues early
Prime Walleye Waters detection efforts for
Mike Gnatkowski page 56 Coexistence and
Invasive Carp Situational Awareness
page 8 Jonathan Schechter page 70
FEATURE
Rails to Trails
Benefit Everyone
Tom Huggler page 14
Two State Park Gems
John Pepin page 19
Outdoor Weekend 2019
Randy Jorgensen page 20
2018 Deer Harvest
and Hunters Down
Richard P. Smith...page 34
Manufacturers restricted
by dog food labeling rules OPINIONS
Make your hunts
Tom Carney page 28
New Commercial Fishing
Bills in Michigan
Earn a hunter safety certificate
more productive
Mark Sak page 74
during summer break
page 31
Wind Turbines:
Consumers Energy Funds Threat to the Great Lakes
Adam Lewis...page 16
Habitat Improvement Project Guest Column
to raise more walleye Capt. Tom Marks
Commemorating 100 years of page 62 page 75
the Pigeon River Country
CO pulls hypothermic woman Michigan applauds
page 48 from Pere Marquette River Wildlife Act Legislation
page 86 page 76
OUTDOOR WEEKEND
September 6-9
page 50-51 PERSPECTIVE GUNS/AMMO
A National Bass Gun Chat...The Pin Shoot
Fishing Powerhouse Michigan Outside... Lee Arten page 41
Bob Vogel page 52 Rebuilding the Habit
Drew YoungeDyke page 24 Black Powder Shooting Sports
“I shot good today...”
AUGUST 2019 $4.00
Dennis Neely page 72
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PRODUCTIVE
• Michigan Continues Early Detection Efforts for Invasive Carp
• Greatest Smallmouth Lure • Crankbaits Summer and Fall
• Life Before Wireless Electric Motors • Rails to Trails for All
P.O. Box 278, Imlay City, MI 48444
www.woods-n-waternews.com • www.outdoorweekend.net
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 7
 Michigan continues early
detection efforts for
INVASIVE CARP
R
esults are in for the
first round of en-
vironmental DNA
testing for invasive
bighead and silver
carp in tributar-
ies of Lake Michigan. None of the
336 water samples collected in the
Kalamazoo River, Spring Lake and
Lake Macatawa tested positive for
the genetic material (eDNA) of
invasive carp.
The eDNA surveillance pro-
gram – a collaborative effort be-
tween the Great Lakes states and
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
– samples high-priority locations for
the presence of bighead and silver
carp genetic material. Results from
additional monitoring efforts in
Michigan will be available later this
summer.
Since 2013, the DNR has
coordinated with the USFWS to
implement the eDNA surveil-
lance program in Michigan’s major
tributaries to all the Great Lakes
except Lake Superior, because it
has been deemed very low-risk for
the introduction and establishment
of invasive carp. Results of these
If a lake or river tests positive for invasive carp genetic material, biolo-
gists use electrofishing and intensive netting to look for invasive carp.
MDNR photos
8 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
surveys are available on the USFWS
website FWS.gov.
Testing for eDNA involves col-
lecting water samples throughout
a river or lake and analyzing each
sample for silver or bighead carp
genetic material.
The 2019 sampling locations
this year include Spring Lake and
Lake Macatawa, both drowned river
mouths of Lake Michigan. Accord-
ing to Kelly Baerwaldt, USFWS
Region 3 Asian carp and eDNA
coordinator, these lakes provide the
type of habitat and food resources
that invasive carp prefer and can
hold eDNA longer than a high flow-
ing river.
What if Positive
Results are Found?
In May, eDNA testing on Lake
Calumet in Chicago, just 6 miles
downstream of Lake Michigan,
resulted in six positive detections U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff test water samples from rivers and
– three each for silver carp and lakes throughout the Great Lakes region for evidence of invasive carp.
bighead carp.
In response to these findings, three days. No live silver or bighead fish population surveys, increas-
the USFWS and partners dispatched carp were collected through this ing awareness among anglers, and
two crews to carry out intensive effort. maintaining an invasive carp report-
electrofishing in Lake Calumet for “A positive eDNA sample in ing website for anglers to share any
Michigan’s waters would trigger a suspicious catches or observations
similar response,” said Seth Herbst, that occur during their outings,” said
aquatic species and regulatory af- Herbst.
fairs unit manager with the DNR. Michigan’s management plan for
“The state is prepared to implement invasive carp outlines the actions to
a response appropriate to the indi- be taken if invasive carp are found
cated risk level. Response actions in Michigan’s waters.
would include intensive monitor- The state of Michigan is a part
ing to locate fish populations, and of the Asian Carp Regional Coordi-
netting and electrofishing to capture nating Committee, which develops
and remove the invasive fish.” and supports the annual Asian Carp
It’s important to note that Action Plan, directing sampling
positive eDNA results don’t always and removal efforts and testing
mean live fish are present. Other technologies to deter invasive carp
sources, such as boats or angling movement.
equipment that have been in an area Michigan continues to push the
where invasive carp are established, implementation of the U.S. Army
also can deposit eDNA into unin- Corps of Engineers’ plan to recon-
fested water bodies. struct the Brandon Road lock and
dam near Joliet, Illinois, to install
What is Michigan technologies to lessen the possibil-
Doing to Prevent
ity of invasive carp entering Lake
Michigan from the Mississippi
Invasive Carp? River.
“Along with our participation For more information about in-
in the eDNA surveillance program, vasive carp and the threats they pose
we continue to be diligent with early to Michigan’s waters, visit Michi-
detection efforts, such as conducting gan.gov/InvasiveCarp.n
 Michigan Trappers & Predator
Callers Association Rendezvous
August 16th & 17th
Osceola County Fairgrounds in Evart, Michigan
• Camping is $17 per night or $25 for the entire
weekend with full hook ups
Admission: Adults $5 • Kids 16 and under free
• Showers are available • Friday night meal 5:00pm--Donation-Proceeds go to
• Four building full of vendors, plus tailgaters outside. Kids Trap Program--Joe Pugliese Coordinator
• Greg Schroder from Fur Harvesters Skinning demo • Live Auction Friday 6:00pm
Friday & Saturday • General membership meeting Saturday 5:00pm
• Kids raffle 3:00pm at the rabbit barn • Trap setting contest Saturday at noon (Near the bigtop)
• Saturday 4:00pm Major raffle
DEMO SCHEDULE Host Hotel
FRIDAY SATURDAY Osceola Grand hotel in Evart • (231) 734-0470
10:00am – Harry Nestle 10:00am – Ed Schnieder (let them know you are with the Trappers to receive discount)
Cable restraints Coyote & Bobcat
11:00am – Jeff Hagerty 11:00am – Gary Schuman Convention Information Contact
Mink/Muskrat Muskrat/Table Fare Joe Velchansky (616) 894-6214 or jvelchansky@mtpca.com
12:00pm – J.R. From J.R. & Sons 12:00pm – Jeff Dunlap
Coyotes Q&A Coyotes
1:00pm – Lesel Reuwsaat 1:00pm – Ernest Winter
VENDORS
F&T Trading post, PCS Outdoors, Shooter Girl Jewelry, J3Outdoorz,
Canine Trapping Winter Trapping Dobbins Products, Winter Wildlife Lures, J.R.& Sons, Mark Spencer, Jeff
2:00pm – John Caretti 2:00pm – Trent Masterson Dunlap, Barnes Hide & Fur, Backwater Bait, East Fork Predator Bait, Joe
Otter Trapping & Zach Corradi Goodman Prints, Montcalm County Pheasants Forever, Pat Stefanik
3:00pm – Jim Tate Muskrat Stretchers, Wolf Creek Products, Superior Furs, Kain’s Fur Shed, Wolfen
Land Trapping Techniques 3:00pm – Bruce Rhodes Bait & Lures, Reuwsaat Bait & Lure’s, Kansas Trapline Supply, Herb Boyd
4:00pm – Mark Earl Iowa Coon Methods Traps, JK Fur Exchange, Michigan Bow Hunters Association, Welch’s
Beaver Lures, Burts Furs, David Karon--Tubari Ltd. and more to come.

RAFFLE PRIZES 6 Tickets for $20 License # R50203

1. $2000.00 Shopping Spree at Jay’s 10. Rapid River Knife 19. Double Bull Deer Blind
2. Ruger American 450 Bushmaster 11. ION 8” Ice Auger 20. Hunting Buddy Heater
3. 3-Man Fishing Charter-Reel Live Action Charters 12. Mossberg-Maverick 20 ga. 21. RRKW Redi-Axe Combo
4. Shootergirl Ammunition Jewelry, Ladies Package 13. Fox-Pro Hammer Jack 22. 1 DZ WC #2 CB Dogless Traps
5. 1 DZ Freedom Brand DP’s 14. 1 DZ WC 552 Conibear 5 x 5 23. Night Snipe Hunting Light
6. Lead Sled 15. Rapid River Knife 24. Savage M-42 .22/.410
7. CVA Hunter 450 Bushmaster 16. Bright Eyes Hunting Cap 25. LEM Sausage Kit
8. 1 DZ WC Eliminator #1 DJ Traps 17. Ruger 10/22 DXL Sporter 26. 1 DZ Freedom Brand DP’s
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Bob’s Gun & Tackle • F n T Fur Harvesters • Gold Star Outdoors • PCS Outdoors • Jay’s Sporting Goods
PRIZES SPONSORED by: Rapid River Knife Works • Reel Live Action Charters • Shootergirl Ammunition Jewelry

Michigan Trappers Predator Callers Association , Say’s “ THANK YOU” to all our, “Sponsors,
Vendors, Osceola County Fairgrounds, Osceola Grand Hotel, Volunteers and many others”.
MTPCA Fur Sale Dates Important Up Coming Dates
2019-2020 Season July 26-27
December 14, 2019 UP Trappers Rendezvous • Escanaba, MI
Jay’s • Clare MI September 23-25
February 15, 2020 NGLFH • Kinross, MI
Expo Center • Kalamazoo, MI June 18-20, 2020
April 11, 2020 FTA National Convention • Charlestown, IN
Eaton County Fair Grounds • Charlotte, MI July 23-25, 2020
NTA National Convention • Kalamazoo, MI
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 9
TURKEY POACHERS
Face Stiff Fines and Penalties…By Jeff Pendergraff
A
fter this past winter I was sur-
prised how many turkeys sur-
vived, especially in northern
Michigan. I was glad to see so
many moving around where I live
during the mating season of April
and May. Several times I had to stop my truck in
order to let roaming toms cross the road in front of
me while in pursuit of a hen.
I was equally surprised as to how many people
felt they have to break the rules in order to get
themselves a wild turkey and the lengths they go
to in order to do so. Hunting over bait, hunting in
the wrong zones, trespassing, hunting from a motor
vehicle, hunting before the season opens just to
mention a few.
Below are just a few of the reported cases that
our Michigan Conservation Officers handled this
past spring.
CO Jenni Hanson received information of
possible illegal turkey baiting activity prior to the
opening day of turkey season in Gogebic County.
CO Zach Painter and Corporal Dave Painter
worked the complaint and located a blind with
several kernels of corn on the ground and decoys in
an area that had been scratched up by turkeys. The
next morning, the two officers returned to find a
subject hunting over a large amount of corn and us-
ing an electronic turkey call. Citations were issued
for hunting turkey over bait and using an electronic
turkey call.
COs Michael Evink and Robert Freeborn re-
sponded to a complaint of road hunting for turkeys.
The suspect had left the scene earlier in the day;
however, the complainant had taken photos of the
truck and the license plate. The COs contacted the
suspect the following day. He had turkey parts in
the bed of his truck, and they were tagged with his
girlfriend’s tag. Interviews of those involved were
conducted. A report is being submitted and pros-
ecution is being sought for using tag of another and
failing to immediately validate and attach kill-tag.
CO Curtis was on ORV patrol on state land
near Indian Reserve Road in Alpena County when
she observed a subject turkey hunting. CO Curtis
checked the turkey hunter who was hunting three
days before his hunt period started. A ticket was
issued for the subject hunting before the license
hunt period.
CO Collins received a complaint of a subject
who shot a turkey close to a neighboring residence
in Montmorency County. CO Collins found that
the hunter was at fault for shooting in a safety
zone. When confronted, CO Collins found several
other violations with the turkey hunter including
not tagging the tom turkey. A ticket was issued for
possessing an untagged turkey.
CO Josiah Killingbeck initially received a
complaint of a baited turkey blind on state land.
CO Killingbeck investigated the complaint and
found a total of three blinds expected to be owned
by the same owner due to the proximity, the same
blind manufacturer, and same bait material used at
each blind. CO Killingbeck shared the complaint
with CO Publiski and PCO Reed. CO Publiski and
PCO Reed patrolled the area the next day to make
contact with the owner. The COs located a vehicle
and followed boot tracks leading to a turkey hunter
hunting over the baited area. The hunter explained
10 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
that the blinds were his father’s and that his father
had shot a turkey the previous evening. The COs
followed the turkey hunter back to his residence
and contacted the father. The father admitted to
putting 50 pounds of sunflower seeds in front of
all three blinds, as well as shooting a turkey over
bait. The COs explained to the individuals that
they would be submitting a report to the prosecutor
seeking charges for taking a wild turkey over bait.
CO Jeff Ginn and PCO Andrea Dani were
following up on a turkey bait in Newaygo County
when they observed a side-by-side parked in the
woods near a pop-up blind. The COs waited until
the hunter emerged from the blind which happened
to be 22 minutes after hunting hours. The hunter
was observed leaving the area on the ORV when
they made contact. The hunter was found to be
transporting a loaded/uncased firearm in the ORV.
The hunter was also found to be hunting turkey
in the wrong hunt unit at the time of the contact.
Upon further investigation, the pop-up blind was
positioned less than 20 feet from a large amount of
cracked corn, bird seed, and sunflower seeds. The
hunter was cited for the violations.
CO Mike Wells, along with PCOs Josh Reed
and Andrea Dani, worked a turkey baiting com-
plaint just over the county line into Montcalm
County. COs set up on the property on opening day
of the first season and located the suspect vehicle
backed into the two-track leading into the property.
COs decided to walk into the property after waiting
for first light and located the suspect sitting in a
pop-up blind with a significant amount of shelled
corn on the ground and a hen turkey decoy set in
the middle of the corn. The suspect admitted to
knowing that baiting turkey was illegal. While
walking the suspect out of the property to his ve-
hicle, another area that had been baited with corn
was found. The suspect was issued a citation for
hunting turkeys over bait.
Sgt. Brian Olsen checked a turkey hunter while
patrolling Roscommon County. The man was hunt-
ing a couple days before his license was valid. A
citation was issued for hunting turkey outside the
hunter’s valid season.
CO Jeff Panich and PCO Anna Cullen received
a complaint of an individual who shot a turkey
from a vehicle in Alcona County. The COs re-
sponded and met with an eyewitness who was able
to obtain a license plate from the suspect vehicle.
The COs also located a spent shotgun shell at
the scene and determined the vehicle owner was
licensed for a different turkey hunting unit. With
assistance from CO Joe Deppen, contact was made
with the hunter at his residence in Macomb County
on the same day. A full confession was obtained.
Charges are being sought through the Alcona
County Prosecutor’s Office.
CO Todd Thorn and PCO Nathan Beelman
received a Report All Poaching (RAP) tip about a
possibly illegally taken wild turkey that was killed
the day before the season opened. The suspect
posted a picture on Facebook the day before the
wild turkey season opened and claimed to have
shot the turkey that day. CO Thorn and PCO Beel-
man conducted an interview with the suspect who
admitted to shooting the turkey the day before the
season started and admitted to not having a license
when he shot the turkey. The turkey was seized,
The author, Retired CO Captain, Jeff Pend-
ergraff is surprised how many people turn to
poaching to take a turkey.
and a citation was issued for possessing a wild
turkey out of season.
CO Andrea Albert recently testified in a jury
trial regarding an investigation from last fall of
a turkey hunter who shot a turkey with the aid
of bait. During the trial, the hunter stated he put
the bait out for deer and not turkeys. He claimed
he never intended to attract turkeys with his bait;
therefore, it was legal for him to shoot a turkey
near the bait. The jury found the subject guilty
of taking a turkey with the aid of bait and was
sentenced to three days jail, four days community
service in lieu of eight days in jail, one year proba-
tion, $1,625 in fines and costs, $2,000 reimburse-
ment for the bearded turkey, and revocation of
all hunting privileges for the current year and an
additional five years.
COs Patrick McManus and Dan Liestenfeltz
were contacted by the Leelanau County Central
Dispatch regarding an early morning road hunting
complaint. The COs contacted the complainant,
who was not only able to obtain a license plate
number off the suspect’s vehicle, but witnessed
a suspect exit their vehicle with a shotgun and
shoot a large tom turkey on property owned by
the complainant. After contacting the suspect, the
COs gained a full confession and seized the turkey,
along with the shotgun they used to take it. Charg-
es have been submitted to the Leelanau County
Prosecutor’s Office for review.
As you have read some folks will go to no end
to kill a turkey, even if it’s illegally done. Myself,
I can’t understand why someone would want to
poach any type of animal and in many cases show
it off like they worked really hard to take it legally.
Keep in mind, poaching a turkey over bait,
during the closed season or taking one without a
license carries some very stiff penalties. At least
five days in jail, loss of hunting for up to four
years and restitution of $2,000 for the turkey, not
include your fine, lawyer fees and possible loss of
your firearm. Plus, the embarrassment. I hope that
anyone would feel embarrassed!
If you know of anyone who is poaching please
report it to the REPORT ALL POACHING HOT-
LINE at 1-800-292-7800. You can even text in a
complaint.
Author is Jeff Pendergraff, retired Captain from
the Department of Natural Resources Law En-
forcement Division.n
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 11
My Greatest Smallmouth Lure
By Kenny Darwin
I
t was my third cast to the
Great Lakes honey hole
stacked to the hilt with
monster tiger fish. I let the
lure sink, touch bottom
and I gave a couple jiggles
and WHAM! It got nailed big time
and when I set the hook a six-
pound monster smallie leaped out
of the water like a Polaris Missile
gone amok. KERSPLOOSH! She
splashed back down as I frantically
reeled slack line and tried to keep
up with the speeding bullet but the
runaway fish was too fast, the line
went slack and the hook shook from
the gaping maw. No problem I told
myself as I retied the frayed leader
and when I looked at the lure I had
to ask myself–Is this the greatest
smallmouth lure of all time?
You know fishing has changed
more in the last few years than in all
of recorded history. Better technol-
ogy, more information and superior
products. Today anglers are using
modern technology to compete
against each other and fish, not just
local tournaments but against each
other every day on most Michi-
gan waters. It’s a challenge and an
ever-changing one with a variety of
combinations that cause or trigger
a fish to strike. So, it’s in this arena
today the competition of fishing
transpires and skillful manipulation
of new lures means you fool more
fish, create more strikes and produc-
tive lures suddenly evolve.
Looking at this in another way,
the savvy angler’s goal is to fool
fish, by skillful manipulation, into
thinking a lure is something to eat.
Well, perhaps the fish thinks the pre-
sentation is worthy of a second look,
a nip, a blow or a curious sampling
with the mouth. That’s the game we
play at the presentation level with
great variety in choices and creativ-
ity, but it all boils down to how fish
react. Eventually the fishing masses
determine which lures become the
most popular based on their catch-
ing success. Then, out of the blue
a new lures arises and fishermen
begin landing fish like never before
and the old standby lures fast take
a second seat, I mean a back seat
or bottom row in the tackle box. In
addition, the new fancy lure often
spawns a new style of fishing, a
specific technique or presentation
making it work like dynamite.
First, it goes without saying the
hottest smallmouth baits are plas-
tics. Sure you can jam some major
12 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
Smallmouth bass absolutely inhale tube jigs. The strike is ferocious
and sometimes setting the hook is difficult because smallies grab
and hold the tube. Best color is of course green pumpkin but this
one has some purple or watermelon flakes mixed in.
numbers casting cranks, and stick-
baits will fool some fish too, but the
vast majority of smallies are fooled
by plastics.
I’ve been fortunate to scrutinize
the rise and fall of many plastics and
seen the transition from all kinds of
worms and lizards to frogs, shin-
ers and craws. One thing is certain;
plastics have made the transition to
a softer, suppler lure, yet they are
stronger and will catch more fish.
But after casting all the plastics, one
has risen to the top of the charts and
held the crown for catching smal-
lies like no other: grubs. A grub’s
wiggling auger tail outsmarts every
fish swimming, big walleyes, large-
mouth, pike and many more. But
few match the all-out ballistic strike
of smallmouth bass. From the straits
of Mackinac to the depths of Grand
Traverse Bay to Thunder Bay and
the Charity Islands, nothing catches
smallies like grubs.
Some lures are only productive
during certain seasons but grubs
catch smallies spring, summer and
fall. The top producer for smallies
is a 1/8 oz. jig head with a 5-inch
green pumpkin grub. Of course if
you are working the depths in Tra-
verse Bay you need to go with a 3/8
oz. and use a variety of colors.
Casting and retrieving grubs is
the bread and butter tactic on Michi-
gan waterways. You can use them
on the weeds edges, on shallow
reefs, hop ’em over rocks, flip ’em
into log jams or fallen trees and in
clear water when the water is calm
and conditions are sunny. There
is something magical, attractive,
and mesmerizing about the auger
tail causing smallies to smash the
presentation. No plastic has the hyp-
notic power of grubs. While cranks,
topwater or spinner baits catch fish
the most consistently, success with a
grub is achieved by making a steady,
slow, horizontal swimming presen-
tation. You can work them shallow,
pull them through weeds and let ’em
sink deep into smallmouth lairs.
But wait, what about whacky
worms? Well, this technique has
come a long way in a short period of
time and become extremely popular
for anglers interested in boating zil-
lions of smallies. Smallmouths often
take up position in particular loca-
tions and gather in schools. This is
the ideal scenario for whacky worms
when you can pitch the worm, let
it sink directly into the strike zone
and by twitching your rod tip you
make the plastic wiggle like crazy
in the exact strike zone. But if fish
are suspended just below the surface
this strategy falls flat.
Then, all of a sudden tubes hit
the market and the world of small-
mouth fishing was turned upside
down. Many anglers learned how to
hop the presentation or inch it along
bottom. The enticing action mimics
forage and smallies rush toward the
wiggling tentacles moving in a life-
like manner and engulf the presenta-
tion.
My first indoctrination to tubes
was off Charity Islands in Lake
Huron. We pitched 3/8 oz. tubes to
shadowy smallie lairs found around
boulders. The day was calm, seas
flat, sun bright as I located boul-
ders the size of a Volkswagen and
pitched offerings into the shadows.
POW! I was greeted with savage
strikes and boated some four to six-
pound monster tiger striped beauti-
ful Great Lakes smallies. But I lost
many because the fish would chomp
down so hard on the tube that you
could not get them to open their
mouth just enough for a hook set.
That’s when I learned how to double
and triple hook set and I also learned
of all the soft plastics on the market
a tube is by far the most effective.
To make it even simpler, I learned a
2 3/4 or 3-inch green pumpkin was
the hottest color going and still is to-
day. However, there are some green
pumpkin color variations catching
smallies like green pumpkin goby,
green pumpkin with red flake, green
pumpkin with purple flake and
green pumpkin magic. Scientific
evidence suggests bass can see the
colors best in the green spectrum,
which explains their attraction to
green presentations.
My next outing was in east
Grand Traverse Bay during the dog
days of summer when fishing was
super tough. I put the boat over
some rocks, grabbed eight-pound
Seaguar Abraz-X and dropped a
whacky worm to bottom. Smallies
would charge the presentation but
reject and return to the cover on
bottom. That’s when I rigged up a
tube, sent it deep and inched it along
Tubes can be used in deep or shallow water during spring, summer and fall. The poles on the back of
this boat are used to drive down stakes and hold the craft in a stationary prime casting position.
bottom. Immediately I had a solid
strike and hooked up with a four-
pounder. The next cast was a bust
but soon the tube brought another
strike but this fish was different. It
hugged bottom like a lake trout and
I had a tough time getting the fish
where I could see its color. Man, it
was a monster smallie and looked
like an eight-pounder in the clear
water but just as I reached to grab
the prize it leaped out of the water
and tossed the hook.
Michigan’s smallmouth explo-
sion is a relatively new phenom-
enon. Primarily the explosion was
created by excessive amounts of
food; I’m talking about the Great
Lakes goby population explosion.
Gobies are bottom dwellers and
zillions are found throughout the
Great Lakes. They hide in the sand
and puff up debris as they escape
from bottom dwelling predators
like smallmouth bass. The smallie
population boom coincided with the
massive availability of goby, which
is basically smallie food. Michigan
is blessed with the vast Great Lakes
all of which are loaded with gobies
and smallmouth populations are
increasing at a monumental rate.
Looking for smallmouth fishing
that is world class? Give the rocky
shoals in the Traverse City area a
try. I predict eight-pound monster Author is convinced Michigan’s booming smallmouth population will
smallies with distended bellies full provide trophy six to eight-pound unbelievable huge brown fish to
of gobies will soon be commonplace those tossing tubes.
catches. Smallies are showing up in
catches all along the Lake Michigan and pier head, Grand Haven pier, smallies found near gravel bars and
gold coast at drowned rivermouths lower Grand River, lower Kalama- the multitude of large rocks from
like Betsie Bay, Manistee Lakes, zoo River and more. Michigan’s Sebewaing to Harbor Beach. Excel-
Pentwater Channel, Muskegon Lake Thumb is overrun with monster lent catches come from the Charity
Islands, Gull Island and adjoining
rocky shoals.
If I had to choose just one lure
for catching boat loads of beer belly
monster smallmouth bass it would
be a tube. I’d want at least a 5/16
oz. size rigged with a three-inch
tube colored green pumpkin. I’d
use it with an Eagle Claw TroKar
Tube Jighead with eye angled at
60 degrees for maximum straight
line control. I use Seaguar AbrazX
fluorocarbon 20-pound line tied
directly to the jig. My goal is to cast
long distances. Hop, swim, creep
the tube to imitate bottom dwelling
critters like goby or crawfish. When
I feel the take I hit ’em hard, maybe
a second time to get the hook into
the hard upper mouth bone of a run-
away tiger with his jaws slammed
shut from the fierce crushing strike.
I crank ’em out quick to the boat
and try to keep control of those
high flying jumpers that will rip
line off the drag and get your heart
pounding.n
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 13
Rails to Trails benefit everyone
“There is a more than 22,000 miles nationally.
Recently while attending a panel
growing movement discussion during the annual Out-
in Michigan and the door Writers Association of America
nation to increase our conference in Little Rock, Arkansas,
I learned how the rail-trails initia-
recreational trails tive is a modern-day civics lesson
system….Abandoned that breaks down barriers and brings
communities together. Because
railroads can help many trails cut across lines of race,

I
fill that need.”
wrote those words more
than 40 years ago, 10 years
before Woods-N-Water
News began publishing.
In the same column I also
wrote, “Probably 2,000
miles of track now lie aban-
doned or may be marked
for future abandonment in
Michigan alone, and some
of these would be ideal for
trails.” (From “Michigan
Meanders,” Michigan Out-
of-Doors, September 1978).
Fast forward four
decades, and guess what?
According to
the Rails to Michigan Meanders
Trails Conser-
vancy (www. By Tom Huggler
railstotrails.
org), Michigan now has 129 rails-
trails totaling 2,458 miles, more
than any other state. Another two
dozen projects could add more than
200 miles to the total.
Like many readers, I’ve been
fascinated by trains and railroads
as long as I remember. As kids,
my brothers and I placed pennies
on the busy track that ran past our
grandmother’s home in Alpena and
waited for monster locomotives
to flatten them. As a young crow
hunter, many a frigid winter morn-
ing found friends and I hauling a
toboggan crammed with decoys and
our bedsheet blind two miles down a
Genesee County rail line that led to
the City of Flint garbage dump.
Even now my setter and I enjoy
hunting grouse along abandoned
tracks, the iron rails reclaimed years
ago, in northern Michigan and the
Upper Peninsula. Closer to home,
my family and I frequent the paved
Paul Henry-Thornapple Trail in
Middleville while toting binoculars
in hopes of spotting red-headed
woodpeckers and other songbirds.
I could hunt there, too, in the
fall when hunters have exclusive use
of the trail. The rest of the year, it
attracts hikers, bicyclists, and cross-
country skiers among other outdoor
enthusiasts.
That’s the beauty of the rail-
to-trails system, which now claims
14 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
age, income, landscape and govern-
ment jurisdictions, they promote di-
versity and political bipartisanship.
Rail-trails promote economic
development while delivering access
to the outdoors for people of all ages
and interests, including the disabled
and elderly. To my mind, they offer
the ultimate in recycling,
providing new life to a
purpose long thought
dead. The fragmentation of
wildlife habitat has already
occurred; so why not create
a phoenix from the ashes?
In short, this is one of
the best conservation sto-
ries of the 21st century.
There are
some three
dozen trail
groups for the
public to join
as volunteer supporters and get in-
volved with important issues such as
trail maintenance, decision making
and monetary help. A few years ago,
the former executive director of the
Michigan Trails and Greenway Al-
liance was asked to identify the top
10 state trails.
Upper Peninsula
• Iron Ore Heritage Trail in
Marquette County is 30 miles long
and consists of crushed gravel and
asphalt. It is popular with road and
mountain bikers, cross country ski-
ers and snowmobilers.
Northern Lower
Peninsula
• Little Traverse Wheelway
runs through Charlevoix and Emmet
counties for 26 miles. Paved, except
for a half-mile of wooded board-
walk and sidewalk through the Bay
View historic neighborhood, the trail
connects to Petoskey State Park and
links to the Little Traverse History
Museum.
• Leelanau Trail runs from Tra-
verse City to Suttons Bay, a distance
of 15-1/2 miles, through rolling
countryside and scenic woods. The
paved trail connects to wineries
within biking distance and other
hiking trails.
• Pere Marquette Trail wends
its paved way for 21 miles through
Traverse thousands of miles of trail by foot, bike or boat as you ex-
plore Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. Summit Mount Lookout and
be rewarded with breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the vast
Keweenaw forestland. MDNR photo
Lake, Clare, Midland and Osceola
counties with scenic stops along the
Tittabawassee River and the Dow
Historical Museum in Midland.
West Michigan
• Kal-Haven Trail features
varied topography that includes
farmland, rolling terrain and some
woods. A covered bridge and small
towns dot its 34-1/2 mile length
through Kalamazoo and Van Buren
counties. One of Michigan’s first
rails-to-trails conversions, the path
has crushed limestone, which is suit-
able for bikers.
• Muskegon Lakeshore Trail
journeys for 12 miles through
Muskegon County and connects to
the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail
to the north and Musketawa to the
south. The non-motorized trail is
paved except for a long boardwalk
that traverses marsh and forest.
Mid-Michigan
Lansing River Trail is fully
paved for 13 miles as it follows the
river through Ingham County and
passes through the state capitol.
East Michigan
• Bay City Loop Trail is a
17-1/2 mile adventure on paved
asphalt through historic Bay City
and connects to Bay City Recreation
Area on Saginaw Bay and the Fred
Anderson Nature Trail.
Southeast Michigan
• Downriver Linked Green-
ways is about 50 miles long and
links several metro parks with the
Detroit River International Wildlife
Refuge. It joins the I-275 Metro
Trail to offer another 36 miles of
pathway through Wayne and Oak-
land counties.
• Detroit Riverwalk is 3-1/2
miles long to provide residents and
visitors with access to the Detroit
River. It links to Michigan’s first
urban state park, the Milliken State
Park and Harbor.
These are only a few of the
scores of excellent trails waiting
for Michiganders and visitors to
discover. For more information,
go to www.michigantrails.org. You
can also order the 2019 print edition
of Michigan Trails Magazine for
$19.88, which includes postage/han-
dling and state sales tax, at
www.TrailsMichigan.com.
That’s the kind of common
ground that hunters and non-
hunters can share for mutual
benefit. And involved people
tend to care.n
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 15
 MAKE YOUR HUNTS
PRODUCTIVE
By Adam Lewis

M
any times hunters are
faced with the same
challenging question,
with seemingly no
answer: why aren’t
my hunts being pro-
ductive? This is a legitimate ques-
tion. The problem is, many times
we cannot find the answer, or are
unwilling to see it.
Below are some blunt answers I
have come to realize through years
of hunting (and learning the hard
way) that can and will make hunts
more productive. However, there is
one crucial caveat - IF you can be
honest with yourself. Many times
this is a tough pill to swallow, es-
pecially for me, but if you are up to
the challenge, read on. I’m confident
you will see the benefits. If not, then
just continue with the same old ap-
proach, but be forewarned, you can
expect the same old results.
1) YOU GRIPE Going with your gut is usually not the best option, and a big reason many hunters aren’t
Ok, we’ve all been there, our
hunting season has been poor (your successful as they could be. Intel should be the deciding factor for hunting choices.
buddy is killing it) and you just
can’t help but whine about it. If your The list could be long: change ture off on some new public land, all and blindly walk into the woods.
hunting land is all you’ve got, and stand locations, find new property, knock on some doors, get creative, However, this is not going to lead to
the deer herd is down (this could be change your entry/exit routes, em- but don’t let yourself get caught in productive hunts consistently over
due to outside hunting pressure, dis- ploy a new strategy you just learned the rut of hunting the same old spots time. The main goal should be to put
ease, your bad hunting habits, etc.) about, etc. To make your hunts more and the same old stands out of a the odds in your favor as much as
you may have a hard time seeing productive though, one thing is for sense of nostalgia. possible, and going off intel about
deer. Most hunters’ natural incli- sure: you have to stop passing blame You can always circle back to your deer is the best way to do this.
nation is to complain and whine. and start looking for any possible the old tried and true spots later and It does not mean for certain that you
They talk about this or that, about solution. Those that do this allow see if they have heated up with fresh will have success, but it drastically
the neighbors, and attach blame to the chance for success. Literally sign, but if it’s not there currently, increases the odds, especially over
anything they possibly can. one fresh idea, one action, can take avoid the urge to hunt it. Always time.
Now some of these reasons a season from terrible to terrific. be willing to try, scout, and explore When I speak of intel I mean
may be correct, however, whether You’ve got to stop griping, and start new areas. It will take more effort, sightings, fresh scat, tracks, trail
they are true or not really does not doing to get more productive sits. but realize that’s what it may take to cam pictures, active rubs, scrapes,
matter. You see, most hunters stop have productive hunts. Ask yourself, and any other observable data you
here. They are content to complain, 2 ) YOU’RE IN A RUT “Would I rather hunt a couple times
and bag that big buck, or hunt most
have to tell you where the deer you
are after are active. This is crucial,
whine, and moan, and be unsuccess- The rut is only good if it’s the
ful as a result. This is simply a no whitetail in the “rut,” not you. The the season and not see much at all?” and all I go off. I need to know, not
win response, and a big reason why rut I’m talking about is an easy one You have to be able to let go of the feel that an area is good, and the
many hunters are not as productive to get into: hunting the same spots past, and take the risk of the new. only way is with intel.
as they could be. Successful hunt- over and over. If I don’t see the sign Get out of the rut, and make effort, The 2018 season in Ohio was
ers focus on what they can control, or deer I want within two hunts at it’s the cost of having more produc- tough for me. Trail cam pictures and
and do something, not focus on a location, I know it’s time for me tive hunts. scouting did not show more than a
what they can’t control. The fact is to move on. I need to know I have couple potential shooter bucks on
we all can do something to improve a good chance of seeing or getting 3) YOU GO my main property. One big 7-point
fell to a neighbor’s arrow early in
our situation, and need to in order something I’m after on each sit.
to have more productive sits. We Maybe it’s a personal thing, but I WITH YOUR GUT October. As season progressed,
another potential shooter was found
must resist the urge we’ve all felt to think it makes good sense to avoid Going with your gut in hunting
wallow in self-pity, think about how being stuck hunting in a poor area is one of the worst things you can poached across the road. The only
“other hunters have it better,” or get because it’s easy (I’m being lazy), do. It relegates your chance of suc- remaining buck I would have taken
green-eyed jealous of the success of or just because I don’t have other cess to luck, when it could be based was a nice nine that I only had
others. If you say “there is nothing spots. If this is you, stop making on hard facts or data, which I call two trail cam pictures of – one in
I can do,” you’re not thinking hard excuses, get off the couch, and find ‘intel.’ A gut feeling might be all a
enough. areas with better sign to hunt. Ven- hunter has if they do no scouting at Productive hunts page 18
16 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 17
Productive hunts:
from page 16
September, and one in late October.
He was simply not frequenting the
property. Meanwhile on my other
property, I had a close encounter
with a nice 8-point the weekend
prior, and had several recent trail
camera pictures of him and another
wandering 10-point. The problem
was I was pressuring this spot quite
a bit.
With just two days left in my rut
hunt, my “gut feelings” told me to
hunt the property with little sign, to
give the hot spot a rest and also due
to the allure of a fresh rut spot to
hunt (I had success in past years here
and this was very tempting). This
was a hard decision at the time, but
looking back really should not have
been. On one hand I had a property
with no shooters showing consis-
tently, and neighbors telling me the
same, and on the other hand had a
property that had current intel of
activity. So what did I do? You bet,
I resisted my “gut feeling” to hunt
the first property and went with the
intel. The rest is history, as the next
night I arrowed the nice 8-point intel
told me was frequenting the area. To
have more productive sits, don’t go
with your gut, go with intel.
4) YOU HUNT
TOO HARD
Some people think that just
hunting more, hunting harder is
the key. This usually translates into
hunting the same stand or same
location over and over. Wearing out
spots is never good, however hunt-
ing frequently in different locations
that you have good intel for can be.
A key example of this principal is
my 2018 season. In arguably one of
the most challenging states to hunt
good bucks (Michigan), I had three
shots on very good bucks before I
was three weeks into the season, all
on public land.
One of the bucks I encountered
was October 5, a near miss on a
very nice split G2, 8-point that
would have gone about 130 inches.
The second was a slightly smaller
8-point I took on a different piece of
public ground, and the third was my
biggest yet in Michigan (27 years
hunting) which scored 132 inches.
ALL of these shots were taken in the
first sit at these locations, only after
I had substantial intel telling me to
hunt there, and none of the locations
were hunted hard (pressured). They
Regular encounters with this 8-point gave intel, and trumped
the “gut feeling” to hunt elsewhere.
were hardly hunted, not hunted
hard.
In the first case (the miss), I had
observed a group of bucks coming
out of some overlooked CRP just
before season started. On October
4 I decided to do a non-intrusive
hunt/scout that proved to be a great
observation sit. I was able to con-
firm from a distance that the bucks
indeed were still bedding in this
clump of CRP, and also get some
vital information. They liked to exit
the CRP to feed with the wind at
their backs (I believe due to the fact
they could see in front, and smell
anything behind them in the CRP).
This proved critical.
The next night the wind was the
same, so I pushed across the field
to a point I had seen them pass the
day before, and set up. Within an
hour, because of direct and valuable
intel, I had a shot at this awesome
buck. The fact that I misjudged the
distance is a sad one, but does not
negate the fact that hard intel told
me where and when to hunt, and al-
lowed a very productive sit.
Intel is king, and if you do not
have it, you should resist the urge to
hunt and do more scouting until you
know exactly where you should.
This is the biggest factor to mak-
ing each hunt a productive one, and
cannot be emphasized enough. The
more you talk to highly and consis-
tently successful hunters, the more
you’ll realize this crucial and often
overlooked fact. They scout, scout,
scout, get intel, then hunt and kill.
It’s a vital key to making their hunts
very productive, and it’s key for
making yours productive too.n

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18 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
 Two State Park Gems
Michigan State Parks Centennial Celebration…By John Pepin-MDNR
I
n southern Schoolcraft Coun-
ty lie two fantastic Michigan
state parks, each situated
along the shores of the Upper
Peninsula’s fourth-largest
lake – the 8,400-acre Indian
Lake, which is located north of
Thompson and west of Manistique.
Indian Lake State Park – which is
divided into a south and a west unit
– offers a total of 217 campsites.
Palms Book State Park, located 15
minutes away, along the northwest
corner of the lake, is home to Michi-
gan’s largest free-flowing spring.
Combined, these two state parks
offer visitors beautiful scenery,
places for picnicking, camping, ice
cream and star gazing, boating, kay-
aking and fishing, hiking, swimming
and beachcombing. Visitors are also
well within range for a day trip from
here to Fayette Historic State Park
in neighboring Delta County.
Though large, Indian Lake is
shallow with a maximum depth
of 18 feet, with almost all the lake
measuring 15 feet deep or less.
Once referred to as M’O’Nositique
Lake, Indian Lake measures six
miles north to south and three miles
across. Despite the shallow depth,
anglers – especially those with small
boats – come here to try to catch
some of the nine species available,
which range from sturgeon and
brown trout to muskies, panfish,
walleye and northern pike.
At one time, American Indians
lived near the outlet of the lake in
log cabins.
Original land for the south-shore
unit at Indian Lake State Park was
acquired in 1932. Development of
the park started a year later with
the help of labor provided by the
Depression-era saviors from the
Civilian Conservation Corps and the
Works Progress Administration.
Campsites and other park
features were constructed along the
lakeshore here.
In 1939, land was acquired for
the west-shore unit of the park,
though development didn’t start
here until more than two decades
later, in 1965. Campsites at the west
side of the lake are situated farther
back from the water, about a quar-
ter to a half-mile, providing a more
secluded atmosphere for camping.
The state park is located four miles
west of Manistique. Palms Book
State Park is found at the northern
end of M-149.
“It is a rewarding side trip for
the vacationer touring the Upper
Peninsula, for here can be seen one
of Michigan’s alluring natural at-
tractions – Kitch-iti-kipi, ‘The Big
Spring,’” a park brochure reads.
A raft takes park visitors across
the surface of the spring. A viewing
well in the watercraft allows views
of sand boiling out of the bottom of
the spring, the pool cast in an emer-
ald green color due to the minerals
present.
“Ancient tree trunks, lime-
encrusted branches and fat trout
appear suspended in nothingness as
they slip through crystal waters far
below,” a brochure reads. “Clouds
of sand kept in constant motion by
gushing waters create ever-changing
shapes and forms, a challenge to the
imagination of young and old alike.”
Top: Campers at Indian Lake State
Park have a fantastic view of the
four th-largest lake in the region.
Left: Boaters get ready to launch
their boat at Indian Lake State Park.
Below: Huge brown and lake trout
are suspended in the waters of the
Big Spring at Palms Book State Park.
The spring maintains a con-
stant 45-degree water temperature
year-round, with more than 10,000
gallons of water per minute gush-
ing from cracks in the underlying
limestone.
Early proponent of the spring
John I. Bellaire found it as a logging
camp dump and persuaded Frank
Book of the Palms Book Land Co.
in Detroit to sell 90 acres around
the spring to the state for $10 to
preserve the area as part of a state
park. Additional land acquisitions
and exchanges brought the park to
a total of 308 acres. Work crews
constructed the first raft here over
the oval-shaped spring. recreational opportunities within the south to Escanaba, Menominee and
There is a concessionaire’s store Hiawatha National Forest. the Wisconsin border.
at the park, along with swings and Cool day trips from here include Whether you’re a camper, a
grills for picnicking. No camping is the nature drive and other wildlife sightseer, a picture taker, painter,
permitted here. viewing opportunities at the Seney stargazer, angler, boater, biker, pad-
Bellaire and an American Indian National Wildlife Refuge, history dler or hiker, these two beautiful
friend created Indian legends about and ghost hunting at the Seul Choix state parks are places that should be
the spring to attract more visitors to Point Lighthouse, shops and restau- experienced – whether for a day, a
the site he visited almost daily. rants in Manistique, as well as plac- week or more.
In addition to the two state parks es to walk along the shell-encrusted The emerald waters of the big
in this part of the peninsula, there beaches of Lake Michigan. spring await, like the sweeping
are other attractions in the area to Indian Lake State Park is situ- vistas found across Indian Lake, a
visit, including the state fish hatch- ated along Schoolcraft County Road place for beautiful sunsets, peaceful
ery at Thompson, shoreline board- 442, not far north of U.S. 2, which contemplation, fun with a fishing
walks with a picturesque lighthouse winds along Lake Michigan east to rod, a kayak or family and
at Manistique, along with more the Mackinac Bridge and west and friends.n
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 19

It’s time to think about bruiser bucks and nocking arrows, which
meansKirksit’s also 1time
Supply.pdf
05/08/2016 the PM Outdoor Weekend, Sept. 6-8.
‘The Outdoor
Weekend’
Celebrate our outdoor heritage
with the Woods-N-Water News
I
like familiar places and things, I
like to stay familiar...if you know
what I mean. This, I know, doesn’t
happen.
Although it’s a little early to
notice the darkness falling a little ear-
lier on us in the evenings, our morn-
ings seem to be getting just a touch
cooler. Of course you know what’s
coming. I can imagine it and for me,
those are sure signs that fall is just
around the corner, and so is the sea-
son of harvest.
A time to
reflect on our
family, our out-
door heritage, a
time to cele-
brate it and pre-
serve it.
for 1:18:49
By Randy Jorgensen
It’s a change I’ve always looked
forward to.
It’s time to nock an arrow and
prepare for the fall archery season.
Thoughts of bruiser bucks walking
into my shooting lane are more fre-
quent now.
Going on 33 years now, I’ve
found myself at the Eastern Michigan
State Fairgrounds in Imlay City the
weekend after Labor Day.
For just as long, I’ve been writing
a column very similar to this one
about the Outdoor Weekend.
We’ll soon be putting up fences to lay
out the fairgrounds for the Woods-N-
Water News Outdoor Weekend. This
being our 33rd straight year, at the
same place, and on the same week-
end.

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20 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
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For most of those years, Tom
Campbell, my business partner and
brother-in-law, has been there too.
Thank goodness that hasn’t changed.
Tom has been the key to our success.
He keeps track of details I’m apt to let
slide.
My son Keil has also worked hard
to earn a spot on the same stage as his
Uncle Tom. He helps carry out some
of the plans Tom has laid in place.
Woods-N-Water News and the
Outdoor Weekend is better because of
them both.
This year’s dates of the Outdoor
Weekend is September 6, 7 and 8.
Same place, same times.
The layout will be a little differ-
ent, the fairgrounds has made some
changes which allows us to expand
the exhibitor and display area. We will
have a few additional exhibitors for
you this year, thanks to the changes in
the fairgrounds.
The fairgrounds has expanded its
parking by a few acres, so finding a
spot to park will be easier. We hope to Byron Ferguson is widely recognized as one of the greatest traditional archers alive. He has performed for the
get you in and out faster. crowned heads of Europe, as well as on national TV on the Tonight Show. His accuracy is so great he qualifies
as superhuman. He’ll be back at this year’s Outdoor Weekend demonstrating his amazing talents!
Some things just don’t change and
we wouldn’t want to change them Of course the other things you can a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 8, 9 my treestand, looking to bag a big old
anyway. The annual Outdoor Weekend count on that have not changed are the a.m. to 5 p.m.) and kids under 12 are whitetail, and if I don’t.....well like I
just wouldn’t be the same without Puppy Tent, frontier encampment, Civil free. said, some things just don’t change at
many outdoor personalities, chili War reenactors, wild animal display I hope you get a chance to visit all.
cook-off contest, seminars, dog train- and increased activities for the kids. this year’s Outdoor Weekend, we’ve
ing, ATVs, boats, bows, treestands and So it’s the same place (Eastern changed it just enough to make it even For more information about the
a wide selection of fair-style food ven- Michigan State Fairgrounds, Imlay better. Outdoor Weekend visit:
dors. Not to mention venison sticks City) at the same times (Friday, Sept. The only other changes I plan to www.outdoorweekend.net or
and Rotary’s refreshment tent. 6, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 7, 9 make will be from the semi-comfort of call 810-724-0254.

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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 21
 Cisco: It’s what’s for dinner
T
he Great Lakes cisco
is one of those fish
that is known by
a number of alias
names. Chubs, lake
herring, tullibee are
just a few of the names that anglers
have tagged onto the cisco.
History of Ciscoes
in Lake Michigan
At one time ciscoes were consid-
ered one of the most abundant spe-
cies in Lake Michigan. As many as
eight million pounds were harvested
annually by commercial fisher-
men. By the late 1950s the cisco
population in Lake Michigan was
showing serious signs of collapse.
In the 1980s the commercial harvest
dropped to around 2,000 pounds a
year!
Recently stocking efforts provid-
ed by the Little Traverse Bay Band
of Odawa Indians has helped the
cisco enjoy a comeback in certain
waters. Nearly a million dollars in
federal grant money has been pro-
vided as part of Great Lakes Resto-
ration Initiative aimed at studying
ciscoes and lake whitefish in an
effort to reestablish these species in
Lake Michigan waters.
About Ciscoes
A native Great Lakes species,
ciscoes have done something no
other fish in Michigan can claim.
Up until recently the cisco were
considered a forage fish. These days
a growing number of anglers are Cisco are a great family fish because they are so abundant and easy to catch. Fish with Jim Outfitters photo
targeting ciscoes as a sport fish!
The interesting thing is that growing bigger these days, but some aquatic insects and small fish to feed tackle,” says Chamberlin.
for reasons biologist simply can’t research biologists feel it has some- upon.
explain, cisco are growing to much thing to do with the decline Small trolling spoons such as Casting Methods
larger sizes than were noted of the lake whitefish. A the Wolverine Tackle Jr. Streak and Once an active school of ciscoes
historically. Smaller cisco niche seemingly has opened Mini Streak trolled with the help are located, switching from trolling
are of course an important up in the Great Lakes and of downriggers, lead core line and to casting gear makes a lot of sense.
forage species for lake cisco are filling that niche planer boards like the Off Shore Casting blade baits, in-line spin-
trout, salmon, steelhead and and creating a brand new ners, swimbaits and small wobbling
Tackle Side-Planer are the most
brown trout. Once these sport fishery in the process. popular methods for pinpointing spoons can literally yield a fish on
fish grow up a bit, it’s an- The decline of the every cast! The trick is to allow
glers that are targeting them schools of ciscoes.
lake whitefish seems to be “Because ciscoes grow to these lures to sink down into the
for food. linked to an invasive spe- school before starting the retrieve,
In Grand impressive size, targeting them and
By Mark Romanack
cies, the zebra catching them on trolling gear is then hold on because ciscoes are as
Traverse Bay, and quagga aggressive as white bass and twice
Litte Traverse surprisingly fun,” says Jake Ro-
mussels, that as large!
Bay, Lake Charlevoix and other lo- manack of Fishing 411 TV. “The
have penetrated nearly every hard Medium to medium/light action
cations ciscoes in large numbers are typical ciscoes we catch are about spinning rods are ideal for cisco
bottom area in the Great Lakes. 20 to 22 inches in length and they
being caught that stretch 20 to 26 These mussels have covered critical casting applications. An eight to
inches in length! Cisco that size not fight like a similar sized coho or
spawning habitat, making it difficult 10-pound test braid makes the ideal
only have earned game fish status, for whitefish to spawn successfully.
brown trout!” main line. Because ciscoes live in
they fight like no other. Both open To maximize the fun when exceptionally clear water, it’s rec-
water and ice fishermen are start- Trolling Tactics trolling for ciscoes, a lot of anglers ommended to add a 36-inch leader
ing to realize how much fun cisco Because ciscoes are members of are downsizing their gear to match of 10-pound test fluorocarbon line at
fishing can be. Because these fish the salmonid group, they are pelagic these fish. Jim Chamberlin of Fish the terminal end.
travel in huge schools, catching one creatures that are in constant mo- with Jim Outfitters uses light
just about guarantees you’ll catch a tion. Trolling is often the best way action kokanee rods for trolling Ice Fishing
bunch. to find these fish which are always ciscoes. “Ciscoes are literally a Not only do ciscoes feed ac-
No one knows why ciscoes are on the move in search of plankton, riot to catch on light action tively in open water, they are easily
22 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
 caught under the ice as well. Lake
Charlevoix is becoming a hot spot
for winter cisco action. In Lake
Charlevoix, ciscoes feed on young
of the year alewife. That’s right, one
forage fish is preying on another.
Other drowned river mouth
lakes up and down the Lake Michi-
gan shoreline including Portage,
Betsie, Manistee and Pere Marquette
all have potential for winter cisco
fishing action.
The same spoons and jigging/
swimming lures used by winter
walleye fishermen produce great
results when targeting ciscoes below
the ice. “I enjoy fishing ciscoes in
the winter because they are normal-
ly found in deep water,” says Jake
Romanack. “When you hook a cisco
the fight lasts a long time and often
you can watch the fish struggling
through your ice hole! The action
is also fast and catching limits is
almost a given.”
Conclusions
The growing interest in fishing
for ciscoes has not gone unnoticed.
“If you would have told me 10 years
ago that half of my charter trips
would be targeting ciscoes, I would
Swine - Woods and Water.indd 1
have thought that was crazy talk,”
says Jimmy Chamberlin of Fish
With Jim Outfitters. “These days I
spend a ton of time targeting ciscoes
in open water and also with my ice
fishing clients. Folks love the fast
fishing action and ciscoes are great
on the table as well.”
Tribal fishermen are also target-
ing ciscoes commercially as an al-
ternative to the traditional whitefish
these commercial operations have
depended upon for generations.
Tribal stocking efforts with ciscoes
are no doubt a big part of the reason
this species has enjoyed such a rapid
rise to fame. Approximately
300,000 ciscoes approximately
6 to 7 inches in length have been
stocked to date.
At this point no one seems to
know if stocking efforts, environ- Above: Paige Romanack poses with a typical
mental changes in the Great Lakes, cisco caught while trolling a Jr. Streak spoon
lack of competition from other behind a 4 inch Yakima Bait Fish Flash using
species or other reasons we simply a downrigger. Trolling for ciscoes is becoming
don’t understand are contribut- very popular on the Grand Traverse Bay and also Little Traverse Bay. The
ing to the explosion of ciscoes in cisco action star ts in the fall and runs right up until ice locks down the
Lake Michigan and other northwest ramps in the fall. Right: Anyone who is familiar on how to use sub surface
Michigan waters. What we do know temperature probes to find trout and salmon will find cisco trolling simi-
is this fishery is brand new and it is lar. Ciscoes are members of the salmonid group and they tend to prefer
seemingly expanding to new waters water temperatures in the low to mid-50 degree range. When you find
every year.n this critical water temperature, chances are ciscoes will not be far away.
TAKE THE
TIME
REPORT
FERAL
SWINE
TO REPORT FERAL SWINE OR
FOR
MORE INFORMATION PLEASE
CALL: USDA WILDLIFE
SERVICES AT
517.336.1928
OR
WWW.MICHIGAN.GOV/
FERALSWINE
FERAL SWINE
DAMAGE AGRICULTURE,
NATURAL RESOURCES,
PROPERTY, PEOPLE AND
CULTURAL SITES
This project was funded by the Michigan Invasive Species
Grant Program (www.michigan.gov/invasives).
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 23
5/16/2019 9:28:33
 Michigan Outside - Finding fitness in the outdoors
Rebuilding
the Habit by Drew YoungeDyke
T
he evidence was
unmistakable. When
my colleague at the
National Wildlife
Federation, Aaron
Kindle, showed me
the photo he took at the Outdoor
Writers Association of America con-
ference while I was shooting trap at
our steel shot demo, the size large
Hunt To Eat t-shirt I was wearing
stretched tight over the spare tire I
had burned off two years ago; now it
was back.
In early 2015, I was in the worst
shape of my life at age 35. At 5’8”
I weighed 230 pounds and ate the
standard American diet of fried
food, bread, and sugary drinks, and
stretched out X-large t-shirts. Two
years later, I was down to 175, in
the best shape of my adult life, eat-
ing clean, competing in the national
championships for Train To Hunt,
won a 5K race, and size medium
t-shirts fit just right. Right now,
I’m somewhere in between but the
trajectory is trending in the wrong
direction. I need to do what I did
back in 2015 and rebuild the fitness
habits that helped me get in my best
shape since high school. I know how
to do this. I’ve done it before.
It can happen subtly; your five
workouts a week become three, then
two, then you miss an entire week.
For me it wasn’t subtle at all: When
my son Noah was born in February,
the around-the-clock attention he
deserved left me with little time or
energy to focus on my fitness goals.
It was a win if I was able to clock in
a short three-mile trail run two days
a week, while I had been running
six to twelve-mile distances three
to four days a week training for an
ultramarathon before he was born. (I
later skipped the ultramarathon for
trout camp.) I sputtered along trying
to keep my workouts up, but then
two multi-day work conferences in
June left me feeling weak, old, and
tired.
Where to start, though? Since
2015 I’ve done multiple workout
programs, from trail-running and
ultramarathon prep to CrossFit and
Train To Hunt. CrossFit is varied
in itself, so within a CrossFit box
(what the gym is called) athletes
cycle through multiple different
fitness programs utilizing the core
movements – the idea is to keep it
24 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
The author competing in the 2017 Train To Hunt Nationals. Getting
back in Train To Hunt shape requires rebuilding the fitness habit.
constantly varied. The two CrossFit
boxes I trained at – Spartan CrossFit
in East Lansing and CrossFit Tree-
town in Ann Arbor – are certainly
responsible for getting me into that
peak shape two years ago, and if
I had the budget I would go right
back right now. But with my son,
any money I would otherwise put
into a CrossFit membership is going
to diapers, wipes, formula, onesies,
books, and learning development
toys. However, I have a basic set of
weights in my garage gym setup that
those years of CrossFit have taught
me how to use.
Before I can even think about
launching into a programmed work-
out plan, though, I have to get my-
self back into the habit of just work-
ing out. Before my son was born,
I had a compulsion to work out. If
I didn’t get my run in, I didn’t feel
right. I’ve lost that, and that’s why
I weigh 200 pounds and size large
t-shirts are getting tight. “Dadbod”
happens for a reason. That compul-
sion to work out has to be regained,
the habit rebuilt. Back in early 2015,
I started this fitness habit by work-
ing out every day. At first it was
trail runs, since I hated to run before
that. I ran one mile one day, then
the next, then the next. I gradually
While Scientific American sug-
gests things like group runs to make
working out social, I don’t really
like to run in a group unless it’s a
race. However, I’ve enlisted my
wife in the effort, and her support is
crucial because she makes sure I can
take at least a half hour to work out
each day while she watches our son,
and I return the favor to allow her
the time to go to her Pure Barre fit-
ness classes. I also enlist my Insta-
gram (@michiganoutside) followers
to hold me accountable by posting a
photo from each day’s workout. If a
day goes by without a workout post,
I want to hear about it.
July was the perfect month to
start, because the weather isn’t
generally a barrier to any of the
outdoor workouts I do, and if I keep
it up I’ll be back in prime shape
for the fall hunting seasons, like
busting through thick upland cover
for grouse and still hunting Pigeon
River Country hills for deer. August
would be a great month to start, too,
for the same reason.
Getting in shape, for me, is
increased my distance, but for two about so much more than how a
straight weeks I ran every single t-shirt fits. The birth of my son has
filled my daydreams with us run-
day. I allowed only a single rest day
each week after that for another twoning trails together, hiking into
weeks, and by then I was hooked. backcountry fly fishing camp, and
It generally takes at least a teaching him how to still hunt public
month for something to become a land hills when he’s much, much
habit, and after that first month, Iolder, just how my dad taught me.
didn’t just make myself run: I had To do any of that, I need to maintain
to run. Scientific American lists four
my fitness level to keep up with him
factors that can help form habits, as he grows up. I have to teach him
and in addition to lasting a month, how to live a healthy lifestyle. And
they suggest making it social, pick-I have to rebuild my fitness habit.
ing the right timing to start, and Starting now.n
setting a goal.
My goal is to work
out every day in the
month of July. I know
that if I do, I will have
rebuilt the habit that
will carry me forward.
Workouts can be any-
thing: a three mile trail
run, doing the workout
of the day from the
CrossFit website in my
garage gym, running
two miles to work and
two miles back, going
for a bike ride, taking
a hike with my son in
the backpack or front The author shooting trap during the Outdoor
carrier, or paddling the Writers Association of America conference in
river – with a fly rod. June 2019. Aaron Kindle photo
ROSY BROTHERS INC.
5727 DRYDEN ROAD
DRYDEN, MICHIGAN 48428
810-796-3770
rosybros@yahoo.com

WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 25

 A TRUE
HEAVYWEIGHT
B52
2 5/8”
9/10 oz
12 Colors
KEEP THE
YO
SUMMER BITE HOT
Yellow & NEXT BITE...BY GARY PARSONS/KEITH KAVAJECZ
A
Orange
s walleye anglers, there are
Silver back several adaptations and varied
techniques that can keep the fish
coming to the net as summer
walleyes change feeding patterns.
Here are five ideas of what to
change and where to relocate to build a top-notch
pattern this summer.
LOOK FOR SUSPENDED FISH
As the water warms the walleyes are free to
move about the water column – we call these
“suspended” walleyes. It is very common in
about every lake and reservoir to have some
population of walleyes suspended over vast flats,
searching for food. With eyes on top of their
Genuine silver, 24k gold head, walleyes can only see ahead and up. When
and copper finishes suspended, they hover at a depth where they can
look up for roving schools of bait, so your bounc-
SBLU SCH SOR ers and cranks on the bottom could go unnoticed
– you need to position your baits above where
you are “marking” them.
Fortunately, because they are off the bottom,
suspended fish stick out like sore thumbs on 2D
sonar. With a Lowrance HDS Live unit we can
typically cruise at 20 mph or so and locate a
group of fish or bait. Next, we use the Precision
Trolling App to spread lures above the fish or bait
while trying to piece together what depth, bait,
and color will entice them to bite. In this situa-
tion, we employ Off-Shore Tackle planer boards
to put out a spread of crankbaits or spinners both
to reduce spooking and cover more water in the
expansive flats.
/williamslures
LOOK DEEPER ON STRUCTURE
Walleyes will continue to use structure in
www.williams.ca summer but will move deeper or shallower
26 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
depending on the food sources. In spring, there
was a narrow range of temperature comfortable
depths forcing the fish into predictable areas.
With a wider temperature range spreading out
the fish, the angler needs to be a bit pickier about
where to drop a line.
Summertime walleyes will also be more
inclined to spread out and cover different parts of
the structure, so it is important to find fish or at
least find great looking habitat. Fish that are 15
foot or deeper show up well on 2D sonar and new
models like the Lowrance Live units can iden-
tify fish at ever increasing speeds. You can move
quickly (10-15 mph) to find potential marks, but
then slow down to verify potential targets.
Side Scanning is a great tool for locating
good haunts for walleye. Walleyes tend to love
rock, so finding a band of rock bottom or a
secluded large boulder can often put you on fish.
Transitions from rock to sand or mud are also
areas that tend to concentrate fish populations.
On our Lowrance HDS Live units it is easy to not
only see, but mark the transitions by dropping
waypoints on the target areas.
Once you find a potential area, fish it to see if
fish are present. If the spot is small – pitch a bait
or two around the target. If the area is large, drag
bottom bouncers or cranks to determine if fish are
present.
TROLL MORE AGGRESIVELY
With warmer water also comes higher fish
metabolism, so walleyes need to eat more, and
therefore are more willing to chase down baits.
What this means is that presentation can go faster.
Spinners and Slow Death presentations that were
trolled at 0.8 to 1.2 mph in spring can now be
pulled at 1.5 to 1.8 mph.
 Typical springtime speeds for crankbaits is
0.8 to 1.2 mph – often slow enough that even our
bow mount Xi5 will pull us fast enough. In warm
water these speeds can be bumped up so an out-
board will be needed (we use the new Mercury
15hp EFI 4 Stroke Kicker on our 20 and 21 foot
Nitros). Increased speed does two things. First,
higher speeds cover more water thus increas-
ing the chances of contacting a school of active
eaters. Secondly, fast moving baits can provoke
reactionary strikes. The bait is coming by fast
enough that the fish doesn’t have time to analyze
it and so it swipes at it before it swims away.
We do something called “pushing the enve-
lope” to determine how fast we can go. Start at
2.0 mph. When you start getting bites, bump up
to 2.2 and see if they will still bite. If so, 2.5, 2.8,
3.0…. occasionally even as fast as 3.5 mph. Just
remember if you bump up and they quit biting
– you’ve pushed the envelope to the max. Drop
back down to the last speed that produced and
get after them!
JIG MORE AGGRESSIVELY
The increased metabolism affects jigging too.
In summer, for us, live bait is pretty much dead.
All of our jigging is done with artificial tails. We
even go away from tails that mimic live bait (e.g.
Gulp! Minnows) and stick with “action” tails.
Our favorite action tails include Berkley
PowerBait Ripple Shad, the new PowerBait
Power Swimmer, MaxScent Flatnose Minnow
and Powerbait Ribworm. Cut off the 1/8-ounce
jig head that has been on the line in early season
and bump that up to 1/4 or 3/8-ounce for aggres-
sive jigging even in shallow water. The heavier
jig allows you to fish faster because they sink
quicker, but also the extra weight imparts a better
action on action tails.
The typical jigging stroke this time of year is
to lift the jig quickly off the bottom with enough
speed to get the fishes’ attention – baits with a
paddle tail or twister tail will vibrate on the way
up. Then at the top of the stroke, hold the rod tip
still. The heavier jig will sink fast enough to keep
the tail “swimming” on the way down which
often produces a great bite.
The other aggressive jigging tactic is the use
of a glide bait – for us summertime is Shivertime.
The Moonshine Shiver Minnow is a lure that can
actually entice walleyes that are in an off mood,
to bite. The key is to make the Shiver Minnow
jump and glide to provoke them.
The jigging stroke for a Shiver Minnow is
much different than for a jig. Pop it aggressively
off the bottom (which makes it jump) then imme-
diately return your rod to the starting position (do
not hold your rod still at the top of the stroke).
This will give the lure slack line and allow it to
glide back to where it started. Walleyes will often
see the Shiver Minnow darting back and forth as
it pops randomly and glides, start chasing it, but
then eventually pin it to the bottom to prevent
it from escaping. When you stroke again – Fish
On!
EASY IS OFTEN EFFECTIVE
Do not count out Slow Death – it’s easy and
super effective in summer. A bottom bouncer
with a 4 foot snell of Berkley 10 lb. 100% Fluo-
www.kwcycle.com
rocarbon to a Berkley Fusion 19 Slow-Turn hook
at 1.2 to 1.5 mph is still one of the simplest ways
to catch walleyes. Experts and beginning anglers
(especially kids) with the right bottom bouncer
weight can hold the rod, feel the bottom, and
detect a bite. If they get tired of holding the rod,
put it in a rod holder and watch it double over
when a fish bites.
The boat control is fairly straightforward.
Pick a depth (hopefully one where you marked
a bunch of arcs), pull the boat using your bow
mount trolling motor along that depth at a nice
consistent speed with gradual turns and you will
be Slow Death fishing.
The Fusion 19 Slow Turn hook has aggres-
sive bends in it to form the half crawler and make
it spin. Use the #2 sized hook with live night-
crawlers and the #1 sized hook with artificial
tails like the Berkley Gulp! Killer Crawler (a tail
made specifically for Slow Death fishing). You
can also try Berkley Gulp! 3” Fry and Berkley
Gulp! 4” Crawler for a different spin and profile.
The nice thing about the Slow Turn hook is that it
has a built-in bait keeper (a small inverted wire)
that will help keep the half crawler or artificial
tail correctly positioned.
GET AFTER THEM
Warmer water expands the areas where
walleyes live and eat and anglers need to
adjust. Fortunately, increased metabolism
means the fish feed more often and chase
faster lures. Searching for fish, speeding up
and fishing aggressive are key ways to get...
The Next Bite.n
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at the 33 rd Annual
Woods-N-Water
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September 6 th, 7 th, & 8 th
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 27
 Manufacturers restricted
by dog food labeling rules
A
bout an
hour’s drive
northwest
of Dayton,
Ohio, sits
Eukanuba
pet foods’ Pet Health and
Nutrition Center (PHNC).
Recently, the folks from
Eukanuba invited a
group of journalists,
veterinarians, dog By Tom Carney
trainers and breed-
ers to visit the center for a “Eukanu-
ba Immersion,” a day established to
teach them about nutrition concerns
in dog food. The more we were
immersed, however, the more it felt
like drowning.
That’s mainly because the
Eukanuba people constantly had to
stop short in their explanations. It
seemed that the rules they must fol-
low regarding nutritional claims also
work perfectly well in holding the
heads of consumers under water.
The first notes presented were
Eukanuba’s take on its role in dog
food development: “We’re about
Deer
Processing
Open 7 Days
Mon-Thur 8-6 • Fri 8-7
Sat 9-6 • Sun 10-4
28 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
science and advocacy, solv-
ing nutritional problems
through science. We maxi-
mize performance …”
Further, the “nutritional
philosophy at Eukanuba is
based on these concepts:
1) Dogs are not people
– “nutritional expertise
matters”
2) Use the
expertise to create
customized diets
3) Superior palatability, digest-
ibility and a better nutritional ex-
perience based on the RSS value of
food (Relative Super Saturation)
All of this sounds great. But how
useful is it to the common, everyday
consumer?
Eukanuba isn’t the only dog
food company to lay tough-to-digest
ideas on us. Check out the follow-
ing from a recent Pheasants Forever
post:
“When choosing a food, it’s
best to determine your dog’s energy
needs, the most critical part of his or
her diet other than water,” says Pu-
According to the representatives of Eukanuba’s Pet Health and
Nutrition Center near Dayton, Ohio, an ingredient label on dog food
tells us nothing about the food’s quality, and the AAFCO notice be-
neath it says the food merely meets minimum standards.
rina Research Nutritionist Christina uptake…
Petzinger Germain, PhD. “The higher the VO2 max, the
“Energy fuels a dog’s perfor- more intense a dog can exercise.
mance. When a dog food provides This is due to the supply of energy
the right levels of energy nutrients from fat to the muscles, sparing the
– carbohydrates, fats and protein liver and muscle glycogen stores,
– a dog is more likely to achieve a and the body’s use of amino ac-
high VO2 max, or maximal oxygen ids…”
Feeding Tips for the Hunting Dog
Russ Kelley, Science Lead/Service & Working Dog
Research Manager at the PHNC Kelley advises, “Water
is often ignored, but it is the most important required
nutrient.”
Kelley’s tips for feeding dogs on hunting days:
• Morning: If the dog will be hunting right away and
you want to give it a little food or a snack, give a
cupful or less; if there is at least a two-hour wait be
fore the hunt begins, give a little more.
• After the hunt: Maybe ½ cup of food and as much
water as you can get them to drink.
• “You don’t want to feed a hot dog until they cool off.”
H i f i ve Ke n n e l s
Wild Bird Dog Training
The • Proven Training Program
’s
Hunter • All Pointing Breeds
Choice
• Pups & Star ted Dogs
Bruce & Neal Minard Hifivekennels.com
Hifivekennels@aol.com
231-499-3060 Michigan - Georgia
 So, how many of us can deter-
mine our dog foods’ RSS, right lev-
els of energy nutrients, VO2 max;
and can gauge the levels of liver and
muscle glycogen stores as well as
the body’s use of amino acids?
How about something simple
to add to the confusion? Arguably,
many of us devote much more time
and energy trying to figure out the
best food for our dogs than we do
on food for ourselves. But the decks
are stacked against consumers when
we try to determine the values of
something as simple as the use of
chicken or corn.
Depending on which dog food
brand is doing the selling, any one
of these ingredients is better than
the others: real chicken, chicken
meal, or chicken by-product meal.
Industry standards define each one,
but a company’s take on each might
be different. For example, Dr. Jill
Cline, Site Director at the PHNC
says chicken by-product meal
includes the heads, feet, intestines,
livers and hearts of the birds.
Just when you’re convinced that
chicken meal is the best and chicken
by-product meal is icky, she adds
that the liver and hearts are rich in
nutrients dogs need, so by-product
meal isn’t so bad after all.
Here’s another one. Any number
of dog foods advertise themselves
best and you’ve tested for digestibil-
ity, but the writers among us need
some conclusive facts to present to
the readers. What can you say that
proves Eukanuba is the best?”
From opposite sides of the
speaking area, Kelley and Cline
stared blankly at each other, like two
deer caught in a crossfire of head-
lights.
“These questions are a waste of
my time,” one person spoke up from
behind me. “I’m a veterinarian, and
I just tell my clients what the best
dog food is. I don’t need to hear
about all this.”
“Same here,” said a person
who identified himself as a breeder.
“People come to pick up a puppy
from me, and they see a pallet
loaded with Eukanuba. They know
what dog food I recommend.”
I explained that my job is to
present viable facts and not to sell
people on a product based solely
on a manufacture’s claims. But the
problem is, the facts can be jumbled
up, as with the use of chicken or
corn explained above. Just looking
for some clarity. So we turned to the
AAFCO notices.
Vets usually advise dog owners
to make sure the dog foods we pur-
chase have the AAFCO (Association
of American Feed Control Officials)
statement on their packaging. What
ence Lead/Service & Working Dog Says Kelley, “There’s no way
Research Manager at the PHNC, “is anyone can look at a label and tell
a vague term. But that’s as far as the anything about the quality of the
FDA will let you go,” on packaging dog food.”
and marketing claims. “Doesn’t it sound as if the FDA
For Eukanuba foods, “joint is protecting the small manufacturer
health” means joint support gets a who might be producing less than
boost. The “support” doesn’t exist at healthy food rather than the con-
the “therapeutic level” in the food, sumer who needs the information to
says Kelley, but rather it works to make educated choices,” I asked.
repair joints from a day’s work and Neither Cline nor Kelley dis-
to prevent long-term injury. But agreed.
that information is not allowed on Note: In Part II next month,
packaging. we’ll take a look at the AAFCO and
The law also forbids companies another group that supposedly exists
from adding the digestibility rating to help consumers understand dog
of foods to the packaging. nutrition better.n
What’s in a Name?
Ever wonder how “Eukanuba” came to be?
Eukanuba was originally a spin-off brand from Iams. Now
it is part of Mars Petcare, the largest division of Mars, the
candy bar people. Iams brand dog food was developed
after World War II by Paul Iams, a self-taught nutritionist.
The area west of Dayton was known for its mink farms. He
developed a mink food, and on visits to some of the farms
he noticed the dogs looked very healthy with shiny coats.
Farmers told him the dogs were eating the mink food. And
so … he started developing dog foods. The term eukanuba
comes from American jazz and means “supreme,” “top of
the charts,” you know, “swingin’.”

as “grain free.” But Eukanuba
proudly proclaims, “A grain, such
as corn, is one of the most impor-
tant ingredients in high quality dog
food. … While there is no stated
biological need for carbohydrates in
dogs, there are studies that show the
benefits of a diet containing carbo-
hydrates/grains.”
Just about at the point in the
immersion where Cline and Russ
Kelley, Science Lead/Service &
Working Dog Research Manager at
the PHNC, were parsing the roles
of the different dog food ingredients
sitting in jars on a lab cart before
us, I asked, “What can you tell us
specifically about the quality of your
food? You say your science is the
MICHIGAN E-BIKE
the statement means, however, as
Cline explained, is that the food
meets the minimum standards.
“It means the food is sufficient,
not optimal,” Cline said.
Eukanuba claims its tests are 1000 Watt 750 Watt Folding Bike
more stringent than those performed Rear Hub Drive with front and back suspension
by AAFCO. However, Cline said,
the law forbids a dog food company $1,999 $1,699
from putting “Exceeds AAFCO weight: 48 lbs
standards” on a bag of dog food.
“And the ingredient list offers little
guarantee on how the dog food
performs.”
Another way the food quality
remains a mystery to the consumer
lies in how much detail pet food
manufacturers are allowed to give.
“Joint health,” says Kelley, Sci-

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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 29
 Mid-summer into fall...
a crankbait can do it all
Casting or trolling, my favorite lure is a crankbait...By Mark Martin

A
flip of the lid of any
of my tackle totes will
prove that; they’re
almost all filled with
Rapalas of all shapes
and sizes, each model
with a specific action of its own. I
use them often, late summer through
fall, no matter what species I am
targeting; whether it’s in reservoirs,
rivers, natural lakes or the Great
Lakes.
But not every crankbait is per-
fect for every situation.
Take the lures I use through-
out the transition of mid-summer
through early fall, for example.
While one lure may take more
fish due to its shape, size and dive
curve during the month of July, for
example, a totally different one may
work better by September.
And with the loads of lures on
the market today, the consideration
of choosing the right one for the
time of year you’re fishing can be
overwhelming. But it’s not as dif-
ficult as you may think.
With that said, I’ll dissect the
basic mid-summer through fall
seasonal patterns of walleye, and
how choosing the right crankbaits
will help you catch more no matter
where and how you fish.
The author, Mark Mar tin, holds a great walleye that was caught on a crankbait trolled along a steep
In The Now, In The Know break. David A. Rose photo
By midsummer the majority of
walleyes have moved to main-lake Because I never know what boards allows me do just that; all the fished along steep breaklines that
basins. They’re here because most speed will trip a fish’s trigger day to while never tangling. And when us- have rock, wood, and weeds, and
of the forage is here, as well. day (sometimes hour to hour), I like ing in-line boards, my crankbaits are can be rip-jigged like a bladebait.
Baitfish this time of year will to employ lures that can run both at pulled out to the side of the boat’s If the walleyes are up in the
oftentimes suspend high in the water slow speeds, say, 1.5 MPH, as well path and in front of fish that may weeds or in water 6 feet or less,
column over deep water. Some, as ripped at 2.5 MPH. have been spooked. I’ll cast a crank that runs shallower
however, can be found along weed Rapala’s number-2 Deep Tail yet… And the Rapala Shadow Rap
lines in the shallows. And one crank Dancer, for example, has a great ac- The Waning World (also considered a jerkbait) does just
may work better than the other in tion at both sluggish and rapid rates, As summer wanes and the fall- that, diving only 2 to 4 feet. This is
these two different situations. and dives to 15 feet with 100 feet ing nighttime air temperatures start a great lure for casting during the
In general, I like to troll when of 10-pound-test monofilament line cooling the water, the majority of twilight hours as the unique opaque
fish are suspended as it allows me out. (Berkley’s Trilene XT is my forage begins to move shoreward colors reflect light, making the lure
to cover as much water as possible preference for this technique). Oth- and the walleyes pursue. This is easy for fish to zone in on in low-
and get my lure in front of as many ers in the Deep Tail Dancer series the time of year I start casting light conditions.
actively feeding fish as feasible. The dive to 20 and 30 feet. crankbaits around shallow structure After dark in the late-summer/
key to catching success, however, is Another Rapala that trolls well is during the daylight hours and troll early-fall, I’ll often deploy my bow-
getting a lure into the same section the Scatter Rap series of crankbaits. small baits at night. mounted electric trolling motor and
of the water column as the baitfish. These lures don’t dive nearly as Rapala’s Shad Rap RS, for pull small crankbaits along the first
Before even letting out a line deep as the Deep Tail Dancer, thus example, is a plastic version of the breaklines off shore. The electric
from within the gunwales of my they work well if the walleye are original Shad Rap. I like using them motor is a must for this technique as
Lund Pro-V, I’ll watch the screen of in 5 to 15 feet of water. The Scatter this time of year as they are slightly I am trying to pull my Lund along as
my Lowrance sonar, all the while Rap has an erratic, darting action heavier, which allows me to cast it stealthily as possible.
taking note of where I’m seeing that emulates a minnow or shad farther into the wind. Other cranks The number-5 original Shad Rap
forage. This is usually within the top scurrying for its life. that are overlooked are the Rattlin’ is regularly clipped onto my Fire-
third of the water column. Once de- When trolling, I like to use as Rapala and Slab Rap - lipless crank- Line when employing this method,
termined, I’ll pick out lures I know many lines as the law allows, and baits that vibrate madly and rattle on as well the number-7 Minnow Rap
dive into that same realm. using Church Tackle in-line planer the retrieve. Both work well when and the number-6 X-Rap Shad. I let
30 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
 Earn a hunter safety certificate during summer break
Summer is the perfect time to prepare for fall
hunting seasons. Take the time now to complete a
hunter safety education course before school re-
sumes. We offer hunter safety education in a tradi-
tional classroom setting and as a self-paced, online
course (with one required field day). Don’t fall
behind by waiting until the fall – earn your hunter
safety certificate today!
In addition to being available online, hunter
out just enough line so the afore- safety education will be offered in the traditional
mentioned lures just tap the bottom classroom setting in 25 counties during July.
every so often.
Find a class near you and register at Michigan.
Fall’s Fanfare gov/RecreationalSafety.
By fall, both the forage and
walleye have migrated shallower,
sometimes in mere inches of water,
on rock-strewn or weedy points.
And after dark is when the bite re-
ally gets going.
But the water’s getting colder
and the fish can’t move as quickly
as they once could; so I cast lures
that suspend and can be fished super
slow. The Rapala Husky Jerk is my
go-to lure for this situation.
My fall casting technique is
unique; it employs a cast, followed
by a quick reel in of only about
three feet of line, and then letting
the lure set on a taught line, as if I
were fishing with live bait.
Once the lure has been sitting
motionless, up to a minute, is when
a walleye usually strikes it. After
a few moments without a hit, I’ll
twitch the lure, then reel it in slowly,
allowing for several long pauses
before it get back to the boat. Often,
it takes me up to five minutes to
retrieve from start to finish in this

Up north
situation.
Overall
When casting any of these
crankbaits, I use a 1-piece 7-foot

land loans.
medium-action Fenwick Walleye
Elite spinning rod and ABU Garcia
spinning reel filled with 10-pound-
test Berkley FireLine. The longer
rod allows me to cast further, no
matter the lure, and the FireLine’s
thin diameter permits the lure to Escape to a place where your options are as wide open
dive to its maximum depth. The as the views. At GreenStone, we’re experts in financing
low- to no-stretch properties of Fire- properties of all sizes and are ready to help you explore your
Line also help me achieve a great opportunities.
hook set.
Change is Crucial Contact your local GreenStone branch to learn more or visit
As you can see, there’s a crank- us online to submit a loan request.
bait made for every walleye-fishing
situation under the sun (or moon). 800-444-3276
Cast ’em, troll ’em; fish them fast
or slow; deep water, shallow and all
points in-between.
The key is understanding the
transitions walleye make from sum-
mer through fall. Just follow the
migration, and use the lures that get
into the fish’s strike zone.
Mark Martin is a touring wall-
eye tournament professional and www.greenstonefcs.com
instructor with the Fishing/Vacation
Schools (fishingvacationschools.
com). For more information, check
out Martin’s website at markmar-
tins.net.n
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 31
 Warm Weather
WALLEYES
S
ome of the very best
walleye fishing of the
entire year is avail-
able in the hot weather
months: July and Au-
gust. The fish have fully
recovered from the rigors of spawn-
ing and they are truly fat and sassy.
The favorite food items for walleyes
are in abundance and these
predators feed voraciously
every day.
As usual, the challenge
is not so much catching the
fish as finding them. Once
you have them located, they
rarely fail to hit the right
lure when it is offered right
in front of their
noses. Finding
the fish is sim-
By George Rowe
ply a matter of locating the current
food favorites and that might be
one of three menu items. Crayfish
are always high on the list and they
are abundant in many sizes in the
32 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
hot summer months, especially the
smaller sizes - the young of the year.
Crayfish are usually found in good
numbers on bottoms covered with
rock, rubble or thin bottom weeds.
Wigglers are a significant source
of protein in June and July, especial-
ly when the big Hexagenia mayflies
hatch. While some anglers feel that
the Hex hatch ruins fishing
for a couple of weeks that
has not been my experience.
In Northwest Michigan,
walleyes begin feeding on
wigglers in May, when the
first small mayflies begin to
hatch in the area lakes. They
feed even more heavily in
June and July
when the larger
flies hatch and, at
times, the fish you catch seem to be
stuffed with fresh wigglers. When
the walleyes are feeding on wig-
glers, it makes sense to fish over the
shallow flats that produce wiggler
This nice summer walleye still wears the light char treuse jig that attracted it.
hatches. If the fish are there, they
will hit jigs, live bait and trolled
all day.
With a great deal of food and
nightcrawler harnesses and plugs. different sorts of food available, the
Minnows are another important fish are often well scattered in the
food item and perhaps the most hot summer months. Once you dis-
important entrée in the hot summer cover, however, which sort of cover
months. They move about in big seem to hold fish, you can look for
schools that can readily be marked similar spots all over your favorite
on your fish-finding graph and they lake and take a fish here and there
are often seen right up close to the all day. While the smaller, sub-legal
surface. If you fish the shallow flats ’eyes may be ganged up, the larger,
at dawn, you can even get some- legal fish probably won’t be.
thing close to sight-fishing. The If you cast the jig and min-
walleyes can be seen or at least their now, you are apt to catch other
feeding swirls can be seen as they fish, besides walleyes, as a bonus.
take minnows close to the surface. Those will include pike, perch,
This action can take place in as bass and even the occasional brown
little as three or four feet of water or rainbow trout. Since the trout
but it is more likely to occur in six generally retreat to depths that we
or eight feet of water. It is difficult don’t fish in the hottest weather,
to get a hook-up on a fish that you they are more likely to be taken in
see feeding because, by the time June or September than in July or
you can get your cast in the air, the August. The pike are always in the
fish is ten feet away and you don’t same sort of waters, however, and
know which way it went. The fact they are frequently caught on lures
that you saw feeding fish, however, cast for walleyes. By late summer,
is enough to keep you casting in that some of the perch are getting to an
area, catching the occasional fish as interesting size and it is always nice
long as they remain on the flat. to take home a few perch in the ten
Deep-running wiggle plugs are to twelve-inch bracket to add to the
great for this situation, choosing walleyes.
one that will get down there within The best tackle for casting the
a foot or two of the bottom. A small jig and minnow will be a light spin-
leadhead jig may be an even better ning rig with a fast tip and enough
choice. My personal preference is backbone to transmit messages up
to cast a one-eighth ounce jig, with from the line to the rod. A wimpy
a plastic skirt added and tipped with rod is not likely to be satisfactory
a small minnow. Favorite colors for for this fishing – you need one stiff
the jig and skirt include pearl white enough to permit you to feel that
and chartreuse. subtle tap when the walleye picks
It is always a good practice to up your jig as it is falling back down
fish shallow, at least at the beginning after the jigging action. Limited
of the day, starting off in water only stretch line is also an asset, for fish-
six or eight feet deep and moving ing of this sort. Some of the new
out to ten or twelve feet by mid- braided line can be used, if you add
morning. On cloudy days, the fish a short leader of monofilament or
may stay in water only ten feet deep fluorocarbon.n
The world’s most prolific whitetails
N
utrition typi-
cally controls
the growth, rate
of physical and
behavioral matu-
rity, reproduction,
and survival of deer. Also, older,
fully-mature does produce more
twins and triplets, and are more suc-
cessful in raising them, as compared
to younger does. But even so, not
all female whitetails are equally
prolific, even when assured long life
and top quality food and the reasons
why aren’t always clear.
Understandably, it’s not often
that anyone gets the opportunity to
follow a free-ranging doe’s behavior
and reproductive performance, with
any degree of precision, for more
than a few years. Nonetheless, there
are three interesting exceptions,
well-documented in the Journal of
Mammalogy, that track the re-
productive history of a few truly
prolific whitetail does.
Diana of the
Tomhegan Camps
Ralph S. Palmer presented an
especially enlightening chronicle
of a semi-tame doe named Diana
that was supplementally fed, but
wandered freely about the unhunted
grounds of Tomhegan Camps,
Maine. According to the
published account (plus
some additional notes sup-
plied by Palmer), Diana
was born in 1934 and died
in 1952; she died when 18.5
years old, presumably due
to wounds inflicted by a
buck’s antlers. During her
lifetime, she was known to
have produced 30
fawns, including By John Ozoga
one singleton, seven
sets of twins, and five triplet lit-
ters. Interestingly, 14 of her first 15
fawns were males, whereas in later
years she produced a preponderance
of females. In all, Diana success-
fully raised 20 male and 10 female
fawns.
Nancy of the
Hiawatha Club
Louis Verme related a simi-
lar story concerning a northern
Michigan doe named Nancy. Nancy,
orphaned when only a few days old,
was hand-reared by Dr. and Mrs.
Southwick at the Hiawatha Club,
Mackinac County, in Upper Michi-
gan. As with Diana, Nancy was also
supplementally fed and allowed to
roam at will.
According to records maintained
by the Southwicks, Nancy produced
her first fawns (twins) when two
years old. During a 10-year period
(1951-1960), she was observed
annually with twins, thus rearing
20 fawns in 10 years time. Unfor-
tunately, the sex of her fawns was
not determined. In February 1961,
in her 12th year, Nancy was found
dead. Neither the cause of death
nor whether she was pregnant was
determined, but she was apparently
in poor health prior to death.
Y-16 of the
Cusino Enclosure
To my knowledge, the most pro-
lific female whitetail ever reported
in the scientific literature was Y-16,
a doe that lived most of her life in
the square-mile enclosure located
at the Cusino Wildlife Research
Station, in Upper Michigan. As part
of the experimental herd at Cusino, Larry Piotrowski provided this trail cam photo of another set of
from 1971 to 1984, Y-16 was live
trapped and examined each March,
southern Michigan triplets, ten miles from his other triplets photo
at which time she was X-rayed to on the cover of July’s issue.
determine the number and ap- Remember, also, that such fawn- fully explains the species’ ability to
proximate age of fetuses she carried.
Later, field observations permitted
rearing excellence may be common-
place among well-nourished white-
multiply rapidly and, in no time at
all, exploit every favorable niche
me to determine how successful tail does throughout their extensive during times of abundant food, good
she’d been in raising her fawns, and range. The whitetail’s prolific nature cover, and adequate protection.n
subsequent live-trapping allowed
me to identify her fawns.
Each year, Y-16 bred between
RANDY'S HUNTING CENTER 27TH ANNUAL
USED GUN AUCTION
November 5th and 20th, conceiv-
ing her first litter (twin males) when
about 17 months old. In all,
during 12 breeding seasons,
she conceived four sets of
twins and eight triplet lit-
ters, raising 31 of 32 fawns
she carried to weaning age.
Make sure to mark your calendar for our
During her lifetime, she annual GUN AUCTION during the
Woods-N-Water News
raised 13 males, 17 females,
and one fawn of undeter-
mined sex, her final litter
Outdoor Weekend
being raised outside
of the enclosure af-
ter her release. She at the Imlay City Eastern Michigan State Fairgrounds
was finally shot by poachers when
13.5 years old. Sunday, September 8TH, 2019
Conclusions
There are no doubt records of Ø More Rifles BIGGER
does held in small pens that reared &
as many or possibly more fawns –
but not when faced with predation
Ø More Shotguns BETTE
THAN
R
and other natural calamities of free-
ranging deer. Ø More Pistols EVER!
There are many lessons to be YEARLY GARAGE SALE FEATURING
learned here. Y-16’s successful rear- Look for the complete
ing of 31 fawns, Diana’s 30 fawns, $1, $5, $10 TABLES OF
listing of guns to be
and Nancy’s 20 fawns stand out
as excellent examples of just how OUTDOOR MERCHANDISE
including ammo, knives, holsters,
sold in next months
productive some healthy whitetails
can be. Moreover, their ability to clothing & lots of "stuff"! Woods-N-Water News
conceive and raise fawns at old age
– when 12 to 16 years old – clearly FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL
RANDY'S HUNTING CENTER
debunks the “old-dry-doe” myth.
Given favorable nutrition, even old
does are quite capable of breeding
(989) 269-GUNS • www.randyshuntingcenter.com
and raising fawns.
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 33
 2018 Deer
Harvest and
Hunters Down
T
he decline in the number
of deer hunters in Mich-
igan continued during
2018 along with the
deer harvest, according
to preliminary figures
released by the DNR. Although the
total deer harvest was down during
2018 compared to the year before,
more whitetails were actually taken
by hunters in the southern Lower
Peninsula or Region 3 and the Upper
Peninsula or Region 1. Those increas-
es were offset, however, by a larger
decrease in the kill in the northern
Lower Peninsula or Region 2.
On a statewide basis, deer
hunter numbers were down by 3%
for all seasons combined and the
kill dropped by 4%, according to the
2018 Deer Harvest Report com-
piled by DNR statistician
Brian Frawley. An estimated
554,331 hunters hunted deer
in the state last fall, accord-
ing to the report, compared
to 574,127 for 2017. Hunt-
ers claimed an estimated
360,666 deer of both sexes
last fall versus 376,365 the
year before.
The kill was
actually up for By Richard P. Smith
all seasons in Region 3 by almost
10,000 deer and increased for all
seasons except archery in Region 1,
but was down by more than 24,000
in Region 2, dragging last fall’s total
down below the tally for 2017. Hunt-
ers in Region 3 tagged an estimated
197,080 whitetails of both sexes for
2018 versus 188,505 in 2017. Totals
for the U.P. were 35,438 last fall and
35,289 the year before. The Region
2 harvest dropped to 128,148 from
152,570.
The number of deer hunters also
declined the most in Region 2 be-
tween 2017 and 2018, being a major
factor contributing to the reduced
harvest. An estimated 240,871 hunt-
ers hunted whitetails in the northern
Lower Peninsula last fall, according
to the DNR, compared to 259,459 the
year before, a drop of 18,588 for all
seasons. Almost 14,000 fewer bow-
hunters hunted the region (121,729
versus 135,485) and the number of
firearms hunters was down by almost
12,000 (205,964 and 217,422).
The archery season deer harvest
went down by approximately 20,000
in Region 2 between 2018 and
2017 (37,385 for 2018 and 57,180
in 2017). The gun kill decreased
by more than 6,000 (74,013 versus
80,724).
Increased participation in the ear-
34 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
ly and late antlerless and liberty hunts
in Region 2 helped offset the declines
during archery and firearms seasons.
The number of late antlerless hunt
participants were up by more than
6,000 last December (15,163 versus
8,833) than the year before. Liberty
hunt participation was up by more
than 2,000 (11,386 and 9,167). The
deer kill increased by about 1,000
for each of those hunts as a result of
more hunters.
Even though more deer were
harvested in Region 3 during 2018
than 2017, hunters still declined in
the southern one third of the state, but
not by as much as Region 2. There
were about 5,000 fewer bowhunters
(167,355 and 172,368) in Region 3
last year and gun hunters were down
by about 6,000 (221,855 versus
227,877). There were small
increases in hunter numbers
during muzzleloader, early
and late antlerless, liberty
and independence hunts,
however.
The deer kill was down
by almost 5,000 in Region
3 during archery season
(67,984 and
72,574), ac-
cording to
preliminary DNR estimates, but up
by more than 8,000 for gun season
(92,099 and 83,628). More deer were
also taken in Region 3 during the
remaining hunts.
The estimated deer harvest in-
creases for the U.P. during 2018 are
significant because they occurred in
spite of the most stringent harvest
restrictions in the state and a reduc-
tion in the number of deer hunters.
Antlerless deer have been off limits
to U.P. bowhunters since 2015, unless
they possess an antlerless permit,
while bowhunters in the rest of the
state can shoot deer of either sex on
their regular licenses. Crossbows
are also illegal during the December
archery hunt in the U.P. as opposed to
being legal over the rest of the state.
Both buck tags on U.P. combination
deer licenses, which are purchased by
the majority of U.P. hunters, are also
restricted. In the rest of the state, one
buck tag is unrestricted on combina-
tion licenses.
According to preliminary figures
from the DNR, an estimated 79,571
hunters hunted deer during all sea-
sons in the U.P. in 2018 compared to
79,936 for 2017. The fact that there
was only about 150 more deer of
either sex bagged during all seasons
last fall in the U.P. than the year
before is deceiving. The kill actu-
Last year Michigan deer hunter numbers were down by 3% and the
deer total har vest dropped by 4%.MDNR photo
ally increased for all seasons except
archery. Reduced harvest of white-
tails during bow season helped offset
increases for other seasons.
An estimated 6,248 deer were
tagged by archers in the U.P. during
2018 versus 7,305 in 2017. The num-
ber of antlerless deer taken by bow-
hunters in the U.P. last fall actually
increased (1,269 versus 1,052), but
that increase was offset by a reduced
buck kill (4,979 versus 6,255). The
bow kill was down in every region of
the state during 2018. DNR statisti-
cian Brian Frawley blamed a wet
October for the decreased bow kill.
“…The decline in harvest during
the archery season likely reflected the
above normal precipitation received
in the U.P. and NELP during October
2018,” Frawley wrote in the 2018
deer harvest report. “Precipitation in
these areas was at least 200% above
normal (National Oceanic and Atmo-
spheric Administration 2018).”
The number of bowhunters who
hunted deer in the U.P. was also
down significantly during 2018.
An estimated 22,080 bowhunters
tried their luck in the U.P. last fall
compared to 24,673 during 2017.
There was a slight increase in hunter
numbers in the U.P. during firearms
season (71,659 versus 71,585 during
2017).
Even though hunter numbers
were similar both years during the
U.P. gun hunt, the buck harvest in-
creased by 3%. Gun-toting deer hunt-
ers in the U.P. bagged an estimated
23,522 bucks during 2018 compared
to 22,833 in 2017. There was a slight
decline in the firearms antlerless har-
vest, however (2,570 versus 2,874).
The U.P. buck kill during
muzzleloader season also increased
during 2018 when compared to the
year before even though there were
fewer hunters, going up by 69%. An
estimated 1,409 antlered bucks were
tagged in the U.P. last fall compared
to 833 for 2017. There were only
13,652 hunters who took part in the
U.P.’s black powder deer hunt last
fall, according to the DNR, compared
to 14,879 who participated in that
season during 2017.
When all seasons are considered,
the U.P. buck kill during 2017 and
2018 were almost identical, accord-
ing to DNR figures. Estimates for
both years were 30,519 (2017) and
30,517. An increase in the number
of antlerless permits available for
the U.P. during 2018 resulted in the
harvest of more does and fawns. The
U.P. antlerless tally for 2018 was
4,900 compared to 4,762.
The U.P. deer harvest will make
a major jump this fall if proposed
changes in harvest regulations to ad-
dress CWD are finalized. The DNR
recommended that antlerless deer be
legal for bowhunters again starting
this fall, at least in deer management
units where antlerless permits are
issued. Natural Resources Com-
missioner Chris Tracey also made
amendments to this year’s regulations
that were approved by the Commis-
sion to eliminate mandatory antler
point restrictions from DMU 122 in
the U.P. CWD Management Zone and
to make one tag on combination deer
licenses unrestricted.
“Statewide, nearly 49% of hunt-
ers harvested a deer in 2018,” the
report states. “About 22% of hunters
took an antlerless deer and 35% took
an antlered buck. Approximately 15%
of deer hunters harvest two or more
deer of any type. About 5% of hunt-
ers statewide harvested two antlered
bucks.”
The level of satisfaction among
deer hunters statewide for a variety
of criteria was down slightly and
the level of dissatisfaction was up
slightly. Fifty-two percent of hunt-
ers were satisfied with their overall
deer hunting experience during 2018,
according to the DNR, compared to
53% in 2017. Twenty-six percent
were dissatisfied last year versus 25%
for 2017.
Fifty-one percent of hunters
were dissatisfied with the number
of antlered bucks they saw in 2018
compared to 49% the year before.
The percent of hunters who were
satisfied with the number of antlered
bucks they saw was 30% last year
compared to 31% in 2017. Forty-four
percent of hunters were satisfied with
the number of deer they saw in 2018
as opposed to 45% for 2017.n
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 35
 Life before
WIRELESS
ELECTRIC
MOTORS
It’s simply amazing how
technology has impacted fishing...
By Mark Romanack
N
ot long ago my
youngest son Jake
and I were doing
a little pre-fishing
on Lake Erie in
hopes of putting
together a solid trolling program
worthy of taping a television epi-
sode for Fishing 411 TV. Early in
the day we lost battery power due to
a failed deep cycle battery, killing
our MotorGuide Xi5 wireless elec-
tric motor in the process.
Without the wireless electric
motor to serve as a navigation aid
and also to tweak trolling speeds,
we had no recourse but to go “ol’
school” and troll with the gasoline
kicker motor. I pulled the electric
motor and stepped back to the tiller
handle on the gasoline kicker. Jake
looked at me and said, “How are we
going to make this work?”
It dawned on me that Jake is
young enough that he has never
had to troll with a tiller outboard
and without the benefits of a wire-
less electric motor. Throughout his
whole fishing career he has enjoyed
the fruits of technology that GPS
guided electric trolling motors pro-
vide. That realization made me start
to thinking about how fishing has
changed thanks to these amazing
technologies.
Two Motor Trolling
For many years now virtually
all of my open water trolling has
been conducted with a system I call
two motor trolling. A small gaso-
line kicker motor is used to provide
the primary forward thrust and a
wireless electric motor is in turn
used to steer the boat and also to
tweak trolling speed. I use the tiller
tension adjustment on the kicker
motor to keep the outboard locked
in the straight forward position.
Meanwhile, I use the key fob on the
36 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
electric motor to steer, maintain a
course heading, return to a produc-
tive waypoint and also to fine tune
adjustments to trolling speed.
My boats are also rigged with
another technology known as “Gate-
way” that allows all of the electric
motor functions to also be conduct-
ed on a touch screen sonar unit such
as the Lowrance HDS Live series of
sonar/GPS units. Essentially Gate-
way is a hard wiring system that
allows the electric motor and sonar
units to be linked.
Armed with these combined
technologies, I can maintain precise
trolling speeds, navigate around
other fishing boats, set desired troll-
ing courses and duplicate productive
trolling passes with little more than
a few key strokes on the fob or my
sonar unit.
Digital Throttle Controls
For those anglers who want
the ultimate in speed control, after The author uses wireless electric trolling motor technology not just
market digital throttle controls can for trolling, but for vir tually all of his fishing needs.
also be mounted to the four stroke
kicker motor. These throttle con- electric motors that feature auto- electric motors are called “hybrids”
trols bypass the traditional linkage matic deploy, stow and trim fea- because they can be operated with
controls and use a rheostat to dial in tures? Minn Kota was the first to hit traditional hard wired foot controls
virtually any desired trolling speed. the market with an electric motor or with wireless key fobs and also
Digital throttle controls are accurate that at the touch of the key fob will by means of touch screen sonar
down to 1/10th of a MPH making automatically deploy and stow the units.
them highly useful for walleye troll- electric motor. This clever feature
ing applications where speed often prevents the angler from having to Bigger is Better
makes a huge difference in fishing go up onto the bow in bumpy seas. Not only are electric trolling
success. Not only can the unit be de- motors evolving into sophisticated
Evinrude’s 15 HO E-Tec kicker ployed and stowed at the touch of a navigation systems, they have be-
motor includes a factory supplied button, the power head can be raised come much more powerful over the
digital throttle control mounted or lowered to avoid the electric years. For those anglers with heavy
right on the tiller handle. A simple motor coming in contact with the boats electric trolling motors with
rocker switch allows the operator bottom or submerged rocks or wood up to 112 pounds of thrust are avail-
to increase or decrease RPM levels, when fishing in shallow water. able.
in turn allowing the kicker motor to Minn Kota pioneered this tech- I recommend a 12 volt electric
purr at literally any trolling speed. nology, but by the time this article is motor for 15 to 16 foot boats, a 24
printed MotorGuide, Lowrance and volt electric motor for boats 17 to 18
Auto Deploy and Stow potentially Power Pole and Garmin feet in length and a 36 volt electric
If all this trolling technology will all have “hybrid” style electric motor for boats in the 19 to 22 foot
hasn’t impressed you, what about motors on the market. These new class.
 The shaft lengths on modern
electric motors have also enjoyed
improvements. One of the most un-
nerving things associated with using
an electric trolling motor is having
the power head blow out when the
boat bobs up and down in rough
water. The solution to this problem
is longer shafts.
Most deep V style multi-species
fishing boats are best equipped with
a 72-inch electric motor shaft. Bass
boats are in turn best equipped with
a 54 to 60 inch trolling motor shaft.
Powering all
This Electronic Gear
If modern electric trolling mo-
tors have any shortcomings it would
be the fact they require a lot of
electric power. The primary reason
anglers are using two motor troll-
ing strategies is because an electric
trolling motor alone generally will
not have enough juice to operate all
day long. For some slow trolling
applications the electric motor can
be used alone to provide eight to
10 hours of fishing time. However,
for faster trolling speeds needed for
fishing spoons and crankbaits, an
electric motor is only going to pro-
vide about six hours of service.
This is precisely why I strongly
recommend that anglers invest in the
biggest and highest amp hour deep
0% for 42 months
$3,599.00
3995 Fairgrove Rd.
Fairgrove, MI
cycle batteries they can find. Most
manufacturers of deep cycle batter-
ies offer three grades including a
24, 27 and 31 group batteries. The
larger 31 group batteries have more
reserve power and deliver more amp
hours of service than the smaller 24
and 27 group models.
Digital Charging Units
Of course deep cycle batteries
will need to be charged daily and
the only practical way to accom-
plish this is to invest in a multi-bank
digital charger. Hard wiring these
charging units into your boat makes
it easy to charge all the batteries by
simply plugging in one electric cord.
A growing number of anglers
these days are using multi-bank
charging units to not only charge
their deep cycle batteries, but also
to put maintenance charges into the
cranking battery as well. A four-
bank charger can be used to charge
three deep cycle batteries and also
one cranking battery by simply
plugging into shore power.
On my boats, I run not one, but
two cranking batteries. In this case
I have five batteries that need to be
charged after each long day of fish-
ing. I accomplish this by rigging in
one three bank charger for the deep
cycle batteries and a second two
bank charger for the cranking bat-
teries. The extra cranking battery is
Visit our booth at
the 33rd Woods-N-Water
News Outdoor Weekend
Sept. 6, 7 & 8
www.kirks-mi.com
989-693-6741
The first thing the author puts in the water at the beginning of every day
on the water is a wireless electric trolling motor and it is also the last
thing he takes out of the water at the end of the day. Wireless electric
motors have changed the way we fish forever and the future is bright as
new motors and technology hit the market just about every year.
handy for powering multiple sonar because I can recharge my batter-
units, electric downriggers, electric ies faster and get back on the water
start kicker motors and a host of quicker. It’s also important to note
other accessories including double that digital battery chargers are
bilge pumps, live well aerators, live programmed to lower the amps go-
well recirculation systems, live well ing into a battery once the battery
pump outs, LED fishing lights, VHF reaches peak charge. This important
radios, etc., etc. function prevents damage to the bat-
In short, it takes a lot of battery tery from overcharging.
juice to run all this gear and digital
battery chargers are the obvious Summing It Up
means of maintaining all these bat- The technology rigged onto my
teries. Most manufacturers of digital current fishing boat is astonishing
battery chargers produce multi-bank to say the least. Gear like a wireless
units featuring 5, 10 or 15 amps of electric motor is the first thing I put
charging power. All three of these in the water at the beginning of the
choices will adequately charge bat- day and the last thing that comes out
teries, but the 5 and 10 amp chargers at the end of the day. I sometimes
simply take more time to completely ponder how we ever caught fish
charge a dead battery. without the benefits of a wireless
I prefer the 15 amp chargers electric motor.n
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 37
 Improving your
ACCURACY
I
t is no secret that in bow-
hunting there are numer-
ous challenges that we
oftentimes find ourselves
up against every single
archery season
that are out of our control.
These can include weather,
hunting pressure, timing,
and equipment failure.
However, one of the things
in bowhunting that we
can control is improving
our accuracy. With the
archery season just
By Darin Potter
around the corner
38 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
now is the time to grab your bow ous animal targets to fling arrows
and improve your shooting skills. at, which are typically set up at a
However, before you head to a 3-D variety of distances. Many courses
range or your backyard consider have elevated wooden platforms and
the following tips to avoid becom- ground blinds that simulate shooting
ing complacent with your from a treestand or on the ground. A
practice sessions. 3-D range benefits the bowhunter by
allowing them to practice while also
3-D Range judging distances and choosing shot
One of my favorite placement when there is no bull’s-
places to improve my
eye present, which is essential when
shooting skills with my hunting deer with stick and string.
bow is by visiting a 3-D
These types of courses challenge
archery range. Three-D the shooter by oftentimes position-
courses provide
ing the targets with obstacles or a
archers with numer- natural feature nearby. One course
There are numerous factors
that are out of our control when
entering the deer woods. How-
ever, improving one’s accuracy
isn’t one of them.
that I shot a few years back had a
tire suspended about five yards in
front of a deer, which I had to shoot
through in order to hit the vitals.
During the summer months 3-D
leagues and organized shoots are
often available to archers for a few
dollars, which is a great way to
spend your time with your friends
and family while improving your
shooting accuracy.
Backyard Practice
With time restraints and busy
schedules it can sometimes be dif-
ficult to find time to drive to a 3-D
course. However, purchasing your
own 3-D target or a portable target
with either a bull’s-eye or another
small definable target and placing
it in your backyard is a convenient
way to improve your accuracy. Tak-
ing shots at these types of targets
will help tighten your arrow groups
and develop more consistent arrow
placement.
However, be careful not to
become complacent during your
practice sessions. It is easy to fall
into the routine of shooting at the
same distances and the same shoot-
ing positions. I’ve been guilty of
this as I’m sure many of you have as
well. If you want to develop preci-
sion shooting try switching things
up a bit. In the months leading up to
the archery season I prefer shooting
from an elevated position because
I hunt out of a treestand. You can
achieve this by shooting either from
a ladderstand, rooftop, deck, hill,
or any other place where you can
shoot down at the target. If you can,
set up two to three targets at various
distances such as, 20, 30, 40 yards.
Use a range finder to help you de-
termine the distances and see where
you’re hitting the targets.
When I’m shooting off of my
roof I like to alternate targets and
the angle I’m shooting at in order to
help challenge myself and increase
my shooting accuracy. As you’re
taking shots from the elevated posi-
tion, make sure to get into the habit
of bending at the waist while shoot-
ing at the downward angle rather
than lowering your bow arm. Often-
times, this is the cause of shooting
over a deer.
Another thing to consider while
practicing is to have your shots vid-
eotaped by someone using a phone
or camera. This will allow you to re-
view your shooting form and make
any necessary adjustments. Some
of the things you should analyze
include proper stance, anchor point,
release, follow-through and bow
grip.
Simulate the Hunt
If you want to simulate an actual
hunt while practicing with your bow
put on the clothes that you plan on
wearing during the early season.
Practicing in the summer months
with shorts and a t-shirt is a totally
different feel than when you have
your actual hunting clothes on. You
might discover that your string is 3-D courses provide archers with numerous animal targets to fling arrows at, which are typically set
slapping against your coat’s sleeve up at a variety of distances. Author photos
and need to make adjustments to angle while your fingers are point-
your bow grip or clothing. It will ing slightly toward the sky. Position-
for a shot is trying to hold their sight
pin rock-steady on the spot they
During the Season
also help you determine if your Many bowhunters spend count-
ing your hand like this should allow want to hit on the target or worse less hours shooting their bows in
clothes make too much noise when your bow to fall into the natural yet, deer. Many think that this is the weeks leading up to the archery
coming to full-draw and are bet- pocket that you formed. When you the key to shot accuracy, however season making sure that their groups
ter off left at home than in the deer come to full-draw it is essential that
woods. doing so can quickly lead into over are tight, however once the sea-
you keep your grip as relaxed as thinking the shot, better known as
Another thing that you can do to possible so that you can maintain son begins they head to the woods
simulate a hunt is to take a shot at target panic. This typically results in without taking any practice shots.
the “V” position for the shot. When timing issues when the pin settles in
a target with a broadhead. Certain you release an arrow the bow should In order to maintain your shooting
broadhead companies manufacture on the spot. The best cure, create a muscles and form throughout the
move forward out of your hand. To surprise release. Instead of trying to
practice broadheads that won’t avoid catching the bow after the season it is essential that you take at
damage your target if you would hold steady on the spot you’re aim- least a shot or two before heading to
shot you should consider installing ing at let the sight-pin float around
prefer to save your hunting arrows a wrist sling. This will allow you to your stand. Not only does it accom-
for the deer woods. Arrows with a and over the area. This will help you plish these two things, but it also
focus on the proper grip and follow-
broadhead shoot entirely different through.
avoid trying to time the shot. If you gives you confidence in yourself
than those with a field-tip so it is incorporate this into your practice along with your bow. Rarely do you
essential that you take a few shots Moment of Truth sessions before long it will become get a second shot in the deer woods
with them to see how they fly before One of the biggest mistakes that routine and you should be shooting so it is important to make that first
hunting. bowhunters make while preparing tighter groups. shot count.n
The majority of bowhunts occur
during the early morning hours or
later in the day, therefore what bet-
ter time to practice then during these
timeframes. In the summer months
I sometimes find myself practicing
during the middle of the day. Sure
this is fine several months before
the season, however as the season
approaches it is beneficial to shoot
during the above times to simulate a
bowhunt.
Bow Grip
It may sound simple, but how
you grip your bow can have a major
effect on your accuracy. Holding
the grip too tightly as if you were
“shaking hands” with someone or
catching the forward movement of
the bow can result in the bow twist-
ing (torquing). These two things
could cause your arrow to miss the
bull’s-eye or worse yet a mature
buck. In order to combat torquing
while at full-draw, make a “V” with
your forefinger and your thumb
while your arm is fully extended.
QUESTIONS? PLEASE CALL
Next, turn your hand clockwise
THE BAY CITY STATE PARK
(if you’re right-handed) at about a
(989) 667-0717 OR EMAIL
20-35 degree angle. At this point
MASSUNGJ@MICHIGAN.GOV
your knuckles should be facing op- OR
posite of your riser at a downward SAGINAWBAYWATERFOWL@GMAIL.COM

WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 39

 Pointing,
Flushing,
Retrieving
Breeds
Gun Dog Training...By Len Jenkins
S
Pointing Breeds
tart by doing a little ba-
sic discipline with your
dog and reviewing his
other skills such as
quartering, responding
to the whistle, getting
excited, and searching for birds as
you say “ Get the birds.”
While you are doing this, have
your assistant go out into the field
and set out the three launchers so
that they will be upwind of the dog
as you work back to them. Keep the
launchers at least 100 feet apart and
staggered. They should also be some-
what covered with grass so as not
to be excessively visible to the dog.
Make sure your assistant identifies
the location by placing a brightly-
40 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
colored tag near each launcher.
After the birds are set, you can
work your dog back to them, work-
ing in their direction, moving toward
the identifying tag, saying “bird,
bird, etc.” By this time, your dog be-
lieves you because in the past we’ve
always produced birds for him when
we said bird. As he approaches the
first launcher whoa him and get him
on a good stylish point and have your
assistant hold or step on the check-
cord. Then look your dog right in the
eye, extend the flat of your hand, say
“whoa” again, go in and flush the
bird by stepping on the lever.
As the bird goes up, shoot it,
letting it drop in front of the dog so
he can see it fall and learn to mark
a shot bird. Then enthusiastically
say, “Dead, dead get the dead bird,”
If your dog does it right in training, he’ll learn to handle wild
birds. Teach him the basics in a controlled setting.
urging him forward. He’ll mouth He’ll keep getting better and better
the bird. As he does this be quick provided we keep all further experi-
because timing is of the essence here ence constructive and consistent
if you want a natural retrieve. As through proper training and hunting
he gets the bird in his mouth, say simulations. After a little more work,
“fetch,” pull in his cord gently as your dog will be ready for wily Iowa
you blow the whistle to make him pheasants, flighty Michigan grouse,
come in. Don’t jerk him. Be firm and or explosive Georgia quail. We’ll be
steady. When he brings in the bird, ready for the real thing!
make a big fuss over him, telling him
to give as you take the bird from his
Flushing
mouth. Retrieving Breeds
Then for practice, throw the bird If you are using a flushing dog
out and up a few feet, letting it drop such as a springer or one of the
in front of your pup. Say “dead,” retriever breeds, you’ll have to adjust
urge him out, say “fetch” as he picks the training process since your dog
up the bird, and call him in on come must wind the bird and then proceed
and a long whistle blast. Praise him toward it to make the flush. Since
as you say “give.” you’ll want the bird to flush just
Do this three or four more times before your dog gets to the launcher,
so that your dog learns to mark the you’ll have to tie a 20 foot string to
falling bird’s location and to know the spring release lever so that you
the meaning of dead, the only com- can bend down and pull the string
mand on which it is permissible for before the dog gets to the launcher.
him to put the bird into his mouth. You might want your assistant to
Next go on to the second and do this as well as hold your dog’s
third birds which you placed in the checkcord so you can concentrate
field and repeat the process. Your on making the shot. It’s crucial that
dog should be very enthusiastic hav- the timing is right and that you shoot
ing had so much exposure to birds the bird so concentrate on what’s
which were actually shot over him, happening. Take your time as neces-
bringing the hunting experience to sary to assure that this simulation is
fruition. consummated to perfection. Once the
Assuming that all went well and bird is shot, send the dog out on the
that your dog was steady to wing and command Dead.
shot (thanks to your spiked force col- When he mouths the bird, com-
lar and previous effective training); mand “Fetch,” then “Come” and give
you can start the whole cycle over one long whistle blast while gently
again if you wish by setting out three pulling the checkcord to bring the
more birds. dog in. Command “Give” and praise
First, however, take the dog ecstatically for retrieving to hand.
out into the field to search for more Throw the bird up and out again,
birds, wild ones this time. Work on commanding “Dead, Come, Fetch,
basic discipline again if the excite- Give,” and repeat this process a few
ment has made him a little difficult more times. Then go on to the other
to manage. Then rest your dog a bit, birds you have set, repeating the
get him a drink and indulge and talk process. With a little more practice,
to him so you can both savor the you and your dog will be ready for
pleasure and satisfaction you’ve just the crafty birds out in the wild. The
experienced. After a brief rest you simulation is like the real thing in
can start training again, knowing that slow motion. The real thing, though,
you’ve got three more birds waiting is a lot of fast, furious action. If your
for your dog to find, point, remain dog does it right in training, he’ll
steady to wing and shot, mark where learn to handle wild birds. Teach him
they fall, locate them once hit, and the basics in a controlled setting.
retrieve to hand. Let the wild birds teach him the rest.
You now have a bird dog which He’ll have to be smart and well-pre-
has tasted the pleasures of the hunt. pared to handle that!n
 Gun Chat...
The Pin Shoot
“You can’t miss fast worked fine. It was ported so the
recoil was low as well. With my
enough to win.” First Remington I really needed to wear
heard at the original a recoil shield. With his gun there
was no problem shooting without
Second Chance one. I talked to this shooter for eight

I
Bowling Pin Shoot...
proved the truth of that
saying at the 2019 Pin
Shoot in Central
Lake, MI this
year. The match
was held from
June 7-14 beginning with a
free man-against-man shoot
off, and continuing with a
variety of events featuring
bowling pins, steel plates,
pistols, rifles, shotguns
and, in a few events,
dealer-owned subguns.
By Lee Arten
Because of a last-
minute family reunion in 2018, I
missed the second Pin Shoot. A long
winter, and the closure of the only
local indoor range, made it difficult
to practice. I wasn’t in shape for the
match and resorted to saying, “I’m
days a year back in the 1980s, then
did not see him for 18 years. When
we met again at the new shoot, we
picked up right where we left off.
The first two days of
the match were warm and
a bit humid. I spent the
time shooting events on
the edges of the range. The
first, called “Ruger .22,”
had white-painted steel
pin cutouts against a black
background. Shooting was
off a bipod. The distances
started at about 50
yards and went out
to 75 or 80. The first
pins, on the left side of the set, were
larger. Others were almost the same
height but about half the width, or
less. I can’t confirm the rumor that
the small pins moved when fired at,
but they were hard to hit. The sup-
The AR .22 conversion was a lot of fun to try.
I will probably shoot the same above.) I thought I could dominate
revolver in the event next year. I’ll the wobble for the 90 seconds the
have to reload more ammo for it. I event was supposed to take, but
shot up almost all the .41 reloads I couldn’t. Maybe next year I’ll have
have at this year’s shoot. found a way. A better trigger for my
I also tried the “.223 x 39”
AR might help.
event. In this team event two shoot-
Although The Pin Shoot is set up
ers address 39 pins with .223 rifles.
to last a full week, several shooters
One shoots offhand and one off the
arrived on Tuesday, and some who
bench. I’d developed a wobble by
arrived on June 7 left early. The Pin
then and it made problems in both Shoot is worth attending, either way.
offhand and off of bags. It may
have been due to fatigue, too much
Registration information is available
at www.pinshoot.com. Deals on the
fresh air, or the medications I have
price of registration are available for
to take. (Or a combination of the
those who sign up early.n
Randy’s Hunting Center
22” RUGER AMERICAN

NE W
plied .22 was a Ruger Precision with
here to have fun,” often. I did have a scope that went up to 12 power. I

fun. And also learned what I need to
practice for next year.
One of the most fun things I did
was shoot a Browning Automatic
Rifle, an M16 carbine, and an AR
.22 conversion made by Lakeside
Machine. The conversion used a
miniaturized Browning M19 ac-
tion in .22 added onto an AR lower.
It ran like a sewing machine, was
quiet, and had almost no recoil. I’d
like to shoot all the full auto guns
again but, if I had to shoot just one,
it would be the .22 conversion.
An advantage of attending a
major match is the people met there.
The Pin Shoot draws from the same
pool of shooters who went to The
Second Chance Bowling Pin Shoot.
I registered for the first new Pin
Shoot in 2017 and ran into several
people I knew from 18 years ago
on the range. This year I met a man
who was six when I attended the old
shoot. He was a registered shooter
in 2019 and did well.
After missing the match in 2018,
it felt very good to be back shoot-
ing pins in Central Lake. When my
1100 shotgun failed to extract dur-
ing an event, one of my pin shooting
friends loaned me his shotgun. De-
spite using nine pellet buck, instead
of his eight pellet load, his shotgun
350 LEGEND
shot the event three times and did
better on the last two tries. Still did
not meet the 180 second time limit,
however.
Other events I shot early in the
week included one called “Four
Play.” A shooter used a .223 rifle,
and a shotgun, on small steel plates
about 25 yards away. A .45 caliber Randy’s Hunting Center again has exclusive
H&K subgun was supplied for use models in the 350 LEGEND including 16” OR 22” barrels,
on six pistol plates. The last set of standard or compact stocks in black, FDE or assortment of camo
six plates was shot with the shoot- stocks, walnut and laminated stocks including thumb holes variations.
er’s pistol or revolver. The plates
were 12 or 15 yards out. Leupold CDS scope with the 350 Legend dial,
I shot this event three times and
did better on the later tries. On the Winchester ammo in 145 FMJ, 150 gr. deer season
last run I shot the pistol plates with a extreme point and 180 gr. power point
three-inch M657, a .41 Magnum re-
volver. It cost me some time speed- ALL IN STOCK!
loading after I missed one plate.
I had ammo problems in “Stock AND OF COURSE we still have the largest
Gun.” Although I had tested all the selection of 450 BUSHMASTERS in the WORLD
.45 ammo I brought at the practice
range, it didn’t feed well in competi- OVER 200 different models of 450’s on
tion. I think I cleared one or two of display and several thousand on hand!
the five pin tables, but was really
slow.
After testing my .41 Magnum Randy’s Hunting Center
reloads at home, I had no feeding 721 E. Huron Ave.
or other problems with them. When Bad Axe, MI 48413
I hit the pins, they left the tables
quickly. The event I’d brought the (989) 269-GUNS (4867)
.41 for was “Concealed Carry.” www.randyhuntingcenter.com
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 41
 COVER STORY -- BY KENNY DARWIN

SUMMER BUCKS
M
ichigan hunters
love the endless
entertainment of
bucks in velvet
and when scout-
ing trips turn up
impressive results with sightings of
huge racked megabucks the outing
becomes a whitetail slam dunk. Just
one glimpse of a bruiser is guar-
anteed to get your heart pumpin’,
juices flowing and fuel the hunting
spirit the rest of the entire year. If
your goal is to enjoy the adrenaline
rush of seeing whitetail bucks, sum-
mer is the time to plan trips afield
and the results can bring impressive
results. Here’s why.
First, summer is a time of re-
laxation for whitetail deer and they
tend to congregate into bachelor
groups and become more visible. It
is not unusual for groups to congre-
gate in area fields and agricultural
locations as the bright, hot sun of
a summer sizzling day comes to a
shadowy conclusion. This is a time
for grazing, relaxation, socialization
and bucks are somewhat docile and
will stand as you focus binoculars
or snap photographs. Warm weather
dog days of summer is when deer
testosterone levels are low and they
are busy eating to encourage antler
growth and fatten up for the coming Summer bucks with huge velvet crowns are impressive animals and the window of oppor tunity to catch
of fall rutting activity. them in the open only takes place for a few shor t weeks. Come late August when the moon phase shifts
Now is the time to go deer and days begin to shor ten bucks become more difficult to spot. Kenny Darwin photos
scouting. Savvy hunters make this world. His tines and beam mass
nightly treks in search of velvety looked to be as big around as a beer
prizes. Some hike back forties but can. I snapped telephoto pictures
the majority travel Michigan coun- as he slowly waded through the tall
try roads as the setting sun brings grass and eventually disappeared
long shadows and cool breezes that into a small depression, never to be
draw bucks into the open. Bucks in seen again. My heart was pounding
full velvet can provide jaw dropping at the sight of the megabuck. POW!
entertainment and summer is a time Just like that I had a slam dunk sum-
when you will see the largest racks mer buck sighting. The impressive
of the entire year. However, keep spectacle was burned into my mem-
in mind a buck’s antlers will shrink ory and fueled my hunting ambition
in size considerably during velvet throughout the season. The sighting
shedding in early fall. Perhaps the gave me hope and helped me remain
most rewarding fact about summer on stand even through late season
bucks in velvet is you have an op- cold and blizzards as I daydreamed
portunity to take inventory of your about the monster caribou-looking
herd, finally get a visual of your ma- whitetail rack.
ture bucks, and evaluate antler size This year will go down in the
and age bucks on your hunting turf. books as a year of extreme wet
With fond memories I recall a weather and farmers had a tough
summer monster that showed up in time planting spring crops. Further
a tall grass field. His velvety crown the weather was cool with nights in
was absolutely huge and in the set- the 30s throughout May and does
ting sun the massive golden crown didn’t drop fawns until June warm
resembled the sky high antlers on a weather arrived. Most importantly,
caribou. His G2s looked 17 inches the landscape was slow to green up
Locating a big buck can be a difficult task but summer offers an tall, the main beams were at least 30 and grasses and leaves were late
excellent oppor tunity to spot a trophy when deer are active and inches long and extended past his growing this spring. The impact is
frequent Michigan fields and open areas. roman nose and the mass was out of many bucks had slow start antler
42 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
growth. Once warm weather ar-
rived and grasses and greenery grew
like crazy bucks quickly developed
velvety head gear. It is my opinion
that antler growth is at least four
weeks behind normal growth but if
we have continued wet weather and
grasses remain green and succulent
the racks could fast become impres-
sive.
Summer scouting can produce
colossal results. I’ll never forget a
sizzling summer day when a brutish
buck suddenly came out of a ravine
into broad daylight. He was a mon-
ster in every sense of the word, huge
mature body, long nose, sway back
and tummy to match. But it was the
brush pile on his head that set him
apart from other deer. He simply had
points going everywhere, a maze of
thick tines outlined by kicker points,
sticker points and a non-typical rack
that made him unique, impressive. A
classic example of the many sur-
prises found in Michigan’s deer ter-
ritory during summer. Non-typical
bucks are rare but they do crop up
come ideal summer conditions and
large bucks wander into open areas,
become visible only for a few short
weeks. Don’t miss an opportunity
to check out your scouting area this
summer.
Some Michigan sportsmen use
trail cameras to record summer
bucks. Sure plenty use minerals, salt
licks, apples and other goodies to
lure deer to camera locations. But
keep in mind the baiting laws re-
strict use of such items and use can
Deer love water and often congregate during summer where there
is a source of good, clean, fresh water.
be risky business, even on private
land where you pay the taxes.
My favorite stealth cam loca-
tion overlooks apple trees. Come
summer I shake down apples on a
regular basis and bucks go bonkers
for the fresh fruit even if the apples
are still green. Other productive cam
locations include open field edges,
primary runways, watering locations
and open fields where deer congre-
gate to feed and many more. Food
plots are ideal locations for wildlife
cams.
Perhaps the biggest advantage
of modern trail cameras is they
give accurate images of your herd
on your hunting turf. This provides
Michigan hunters with buck to doe
ratios, age of deer and buck cen-
sus regarding age, health and buck
numbers. It has been my experience
that wise old bucks tend to stay out
of sight, even during summer when
they are busy feeding. However,
sooner or later they eventually will
show themselves on trail cameras.
Trail cameras are the benchmark
of scouting reliability and modern
features and revolutionary designs
help thousands of hunters identify
and put tags on dandy bucks. Savvy
hunters are quick to learn how to
customize how they capture game
on cameras by selecting image reso-
lution, night detection range, videos,
photo bursts, field scan functions, Don’t miss the oppor tunity to catch bucks in velvet when testos-
ultra-fast trigger speed, time-lapse terone levels are at an all-time low and bucks congregate in social
setting and compatibility with groups. Often mature bucks lead bachelor groups, maintain social
smartphones. order and show dominance over other deer on their home turf.
The ultimate slam dunk deer
scouting event is when you find sev- a 160 inch, 10-point heavy beamed
eral large adult bucks in one loca- rack. He seemed to be the leader of
tion. While this is a difficult task in the pack and every deer in the field
Michigan due to poor deer manage- acknowledged his presence, stature
ment policies, over-issuance of buck and it was clear he was the herd pa-
tags and over-hunting, private land triarch. I watched through my 10-50
owners are fast discovering how Nikon binoculars as every subordi-
to maintain a healthy herd through nate buck approached the boss, they
proper management. licked his face, groomed his flanks
If you want big bucks, wise and followed his every move. Made
whitetail hunters have learned to me laugh about the CWD scientists
pass on smaller bucks and allow that have no whitetail field experi-
them to grow to trophy status. The ence to see deer are social animals
average buck to doe ratio in Michi- and grooming, licking, kissing and
gan is simply disgusting at around greeting nose touches are very much
25 to 1. However, some private a part of whitetail contact and so-
properties hold solid numbers of cialization on a daily basis. It is my
bucks and in summer it is exciting opinion close social contact is part
to come across a herd of deer with of the reason CWD is uncontrollable
impressive head gear. Frequently, and it has nothing to do with feeding
smaller bucks tend to join larger or baiting.
mature bucks and summer is a key Big bucks bring social order to
time to get a peek at bucks that are the buck herd and teach younger
very difficult to see once the velvet deer how to respond around preda-
falls off and bucks disperse. tors like coyote and hunters. Spot-
Last summer I came across a ting a big boy also gives you hope
group of 14 bucks all together in when long hours on stand produce
an alfalfa field in Jackson County.
The boss buck of the herd carried Summer bucks page 44
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 43
 Summer bucks:
from page 43
few sightings. Years ago North
American Whitetail magazine
queried several trophy hunters and
discovered the biggest difference is
big buck slayers tend to put more
time afield than the average Joe
interested in fresh venison.
If your goal is to slam down a
dandy buck this coming season, I
suggest you spend time scouting
this summer. Unfortunately if you
are hunting public land I don’t have
good news with years of over-issu-
ing doe permits and buck tags. Last
winter when I hunted state land for
coyote I was appalled at how few
deer existed on public land.
Now, don’t get me wrong there
Visit our booth at the are parts of Michigan that are sim-
Woods-N-Water News Outdoor Weekend
September 6th, 7th & 8th
ply over-run with deer. Last summer
I visited farms near Clare and saw
an amazing 200 deer in only two
fields. Most were small does and in
Grand Rapids, MI 49509 fact there were only two little six-
616.550.8483 point bucks in the massive herds.
It is clear the local private club is
harvesting bucks and the doe popu-
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lation is out of hand.
Savvy hunters have learned how
to pass on small bucks and make
certain to only harvest does for fresh
venison or to bring the buck to doe
ratio back to normal. Hunters who
shoot every buck they see are in
many ways their own worst enemy
and soon only grunt spikes and fork
horned bucks remain.
Deer love water and often con-
gregate during summer where there
is a source of good, clean, fresh
water. Ditches, ponds, small lakes
and a multitude of waterways make
Michigan a whitetail haven. Bucks
love to wade in water, swim in it
and when bugs are bad they will
even submerse their entire body.
Don’t think for a minute deer are not
excellent swimmers. I’ve seen them
cross the fast current of the Tren-
ton Channel and the entire Detroit
River. I chased bucks on the banks
of the Tittabawassee in Midland
County, Shiawassee, and Cass and
even had a dandy 8-point swim from
Manitou Island in the middle of
Lake Michigan to the beach at Glen
Arbor where I was fishing steelhead
in December.
Deer use water to shake off
predators like coyote and those
would quickly swim to the opposite
bank the instant they encountered
hunters. Bucks love water and along
most creeks, rivers, streams and
ditches there is always plenty of
tall grass and brush, which provide
excellent cover. When sizzling sum-
mer weather causes drought-like
conditions big bucks never venture
far from a good water source.
Capturing images of a summer
slam buck is fun using modern cam-
eras, smart phones or a standard still
photography camera. Some savvy
SPRINGS COMING AND SO ARE WE!
The Geese will be back!!
Time to think of prevention of those
beaches, golf courses, condo
grounds, parks and recreation areas.
ULTRA CONCENTRATED CONTROL
will solve your goose problems!
It’s time to order your Spring Control
to rid those pesky geese problems.
Remember when the grass starts
turning green its time to apply
ULTRA CONCENTRATED CONTROL
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hunters record the event on video
and later review footage to help es-
timate the exact size and dimensions
of racks. I love my 500mm tele-
photo but when light levels dimin-
ish come sunset camera jiggle and
blurred images become a challenge.
This summer I plan to drone Michi-
gan bucks in velvet. It should be
interesting to see how they respond
to a drone and what kind of quality
photos I get.
I’m a southern Michigan farm
country big buck junkie and have
literally seen deer on just about any
turf. But if I had my pick of food
sources it would be young alfalfa.
Don’t overlook the drawing power
of hayfields providing sweet suc-
culent plants to food crazed bucks
needing endless chow to supply
their appetite. Soybeans are also a
great attractant as well as corn espe-
cially when soft fiber tassels spout.
Some strains of soybeans will bring
deer for miles. Bucks love to gobble
the soy flowers and will often stick
to certain fields like glue until the
beans dry and harden. I’ve also
learned big bucks require plenty
of scouting time and frequently
are found on private land where
savvy sportsmen manage local
herds.
Summer bucks with huge velvet
crowns are impressive animals and
the window of opportunity to catch
them in the open only takes place
for a few short weeks. Come late
August when the moon phase shifts
and days begin to shorten bucks
become more difficult to spot. When
September arrives bachelor groups
break up as testosterone levels begin
to rise, antlers shed velvet and bucks
suddenly become less social and
quickly disappear into Michigan’s
vast landscape. Then the spotting
game comes to an abrupt end and
chances of making a slam dunk
finding big bucks becomes much
more difficult. Now’s the time to get
out there, locate a dandy, which can
help you fill your tag on opening
day.n
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Essexville, MI 48732
989.415.0825
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 45
 Summer’s
Fiery Fishing
O
Lake Huron-Tawas Area you put both out, and let the fish talk
to you. Try a set of two Offshore
ne of the most boards per side rigged with #1 or 2
productive areas of Tadpoles. Let out enough line to hit
northeast Michi- your target depth, this is usually 15-
gan, Tawas north 30 feet down. I’ll then set a couple 3
to the Au Sable ounce bouncers off the back corners
provides excellent of the boat. I’ll then simply troll
fishing opportunities. Tawas Bay downwind at 1.2 to 1.5 mph. The
and the lower Au Sable River offer speed is dependent on many things
prime walleye and small- but this a great range.
mouth bass fishing in addi- When it comes to colors
tion to several other warm I go with “bright on sunny
water species. days and darker or fluo-
There are many ways rescence on cloudy days.”
to fish this stretch of water, Remember to move the
so let’s touch a few. Drift- baits around until you find
ing crawlers and spinners the right recipe for success.
is an awesome way to If you head north

By John Bergsma
capitalize on the towards the port
walleye. There of Oscoda to
are two schools try for offshore
of thought here: suspended walleye fishing, you will not be disap-
on boards and bottom bouncers right pointed. An abundance of Lake trout Mid-summer fishing in Muskegon offers up some great op-
pegged to the bottom. I suggest that and salmon are at your fingertips. portunities to get out and chase many different species.

with your host

n B e r g sm a
Jo h Now on...
CBSSN: Saturday’s at 7:30 a.m January-March
Fox Sports Detroit: Sunday’s at 7:00 a.m January-June
Online viewing at: www.fishermansdigest.com
Visit our website and find out about . . .
• Destinations • Fishing Reports •
• Our Show • Cooks Corner •

46 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS

Huge lake trout to 20-plus pounds
and the adrenaline packed Atlantic
salmon and steelhead can give you a
memorable vacation. The best way
to experience this amazing opportu-
nity is to hire an experienced charter
captain. My friend Gene at Ca-
lypso Charters has been catering to
customers for almost 30 years. For
a memorable trip contact Captain
Gene Kirvan, 989-739-2313, calyp-
socharters@yahoo.com. Or visit his
website at www.calypso2.com
Lake Michigan Tawas north to the Au Sable provides excellent fishing opportunities.
Muskegon area
Mid-summer fishing in Mus- caught throughout the summer but Glows towards the bottom at a slow To get the best intel on the
kegon offers up some great oppor- are as unpredictable as the weather troll will get you on the lake trout. Muskegon fishery stop in and visit
tunities to get out and chase many this time of year. Starting in 80-100 The “greasers” of the past are not so my friends at Snug Harbor Outfit-
different species. On Lake Michigan feet and continuing to work out greasy anymore. With cleaner water ters in North Muskegon. With a
the steelhead will tend to be deeper deeper is the best strategy. A meat comes cleaner fish, if you are an old very knowledgeable staff and a huge
(150-300 feet) and feed in the top rig behind a Dream Weaver Spin school “Laker Hater” it’s time to selection of tackle, live bait, beer,
third of the water column. Finding Doctor is a “go to” bait as the water give them another chance. snacks and camping supplies, this is
scum lines and/or surface tempera- starts to warm up. Keep in mind that Muskegon Lake walleye fishing a must stop if you find yourself in
ture breaks is a good place to start the baitfish are getting bigger now rekindles in July when the baitfish Muskegon.
targeting. Orange is the color of so adjust your presentation to match. start clearing out. Trolling a crawler Want to book a charter? Jeff at
choice along with a faster troll from And remember…when in doubt harness along the weed edges is Trident Sportfishing is conveniently
2.6-3.3 mph. King salmon can be fish trout! Spin Doctors with Spin N your best chance at netting a world located at Pointe Marine only a mile
class Muskegon Lake “eye!” Perch, and a half from the Muskegon State
bluegill and pike can also be found Park. He offers half and full day
Chef Grant’s Country Smoke House “Recipe of the Month” along the weed edges, out in front fishing excursions on Lake Michi-
AWESOME CHIPOTLE CHICKEN MAC N CHEESE
of the Bear Lake Channel, by the gan. Contact him at 616-607-6326
Milwaukee Clipper and Johnson’s or online at www.tridentsportfish.
Ingredients: Point. com. As always, Fish Safe!n
1 package of Country Smokehouse “Chipotle Chicken Brats”

TROPHY SPECIALISTS
1 diced Spanish onion
1 diced green pepper

FISHING CHARTERS
1 diced red pepper
1/4 cup oil or 1/2 stick of butter
1 Tablespoon salt
1 Tablespoon pepper
1 Tablespoon chili powder CHARTERS STARTING AT ONLY $400 - GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!
1 Tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon cumin Captain Mike Veine focuses on Saginaw Bay, which
Preparation Instructions: many consider to be the Walleye Capital of the World.
Heat oil or butter on med/high heat. Once hot put dry ingredients in and
give the pan a little stir to mix spices together then immediately put the rest
of the ingredients in and sauté till tender and you have a little char on them. Saginaw Bay Walleye
Then simply mix in with your favorite macaroni and cheese recipe and enjoy!
Works great with boxed mac and cheese also. All through spring and
summer our charters produce
This recipe was provided by Chef Grant Bergsma at Fisherman’s Digest TV. consistant, world class fish-
For more recipes and excellent video fishing reports check out ing. Both eaters and lunkers
www.fishermansdigest.com or on Facebook@Great Lakes Fishermans Digest. are typically caught on most
charters for the perfect mix.
Early Spring yields larger
sized walleyes with some
trout and salmon mixed in for
good measure. Late spring
and summer produces limit
catches on most charters
with more pleasant condi-
tions and some perch, bass
and pike mixed in. We fish
both the inner and outer por-
tions of the Bay including the
Charity Islands.

734-475-9146
www.trophyspecialists.com
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 47
 Commemorating 100 years of the
PIGEON RIVER COUNTRY
By Sandra Clark/Kathleen Lavey
Michigan Department of Natural Resources
O
n July 26, 1919,
Ernest Heming-
way – then a
young man re-
covering from his
experiences in
the Spanish-American War – said of
Michigan’s “Pine Barrens” east of
Vanderbilt, “That Barrens Country
is the greatest I’ve ever been in.”
A hundred years later, we call
the place where Hemingway loved
to fish and camp “Pigeon River
Country.” And thanks to the pas-
sion, work and stewardship deci-
sions made by many people over the
decades, it remains an extraordinary
outdoor treasure.
At 107,600 acres, Pigeon River
Country is the largest block of con-
tiguous undeveloped land in Michi-
gan’s Lower Peninsula — 12 miles
wide and 20 miles long — half the
size of New York City. This is a for-
est where logging, hunting, camp-
ing and horseback riding occur, and
yet a “Big Wild” where you can
sometimes sense only the sounds of
nature and the smells of earth, sky
and water.
PIGEON RIVER
UNIQUENESS
The 100-year history of the
Pigeon River Country is told in the
forest’s Discovery Center, opened
a year ago by a group of dedicated
volunteers. The interpretive center is
housed in a historic home that was
used as a residence for the forest
supervisor until the early 2000s.
“We knew we wanted to tell
the history, because the history is so
important,” said volunteer Sandra
Franz, who was on the committee
48 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
that brought the Discovery Center
to life. “We also wanted to inform
people who come out that it’s not
a state park. It’s a state forest, and
here’s what makes the Pigeon River
Country unique as a state forest.”
One of those things is the elk
herd. Many people visit hoping to
see elk and hear their bugle-like
calls. The Pigeon River Country’s
rich history also makes it unique,
while tying into the overall fabric of
Michigan’s lumbering and natural-
resources heritage.
A century ago, Michigan set
aside the 6,468 acres of tax-reverted
lands that would become the nucleus
of the Pigeon River Country State
Forest. The land had been logged,
some of it burned by forest fires,
some of it cultivated by farmers who
soon learned that it was not good
cropland. The forest continued to
expand, mostly with lands pur-
chased with deer license revenue.
Elk disappeared from Michi-
gan in the late 19th century due to
unrestricted hunting and loss of
their habitat. In 1918, seven Rocky
Mountain elk were brought to the
area that would soon be the Pigeon
River Forest.
The herd grew steadily, but
poaching and diminished habitat
quality reduced its numbers from A Michigan bull elk is shown. Many people visit the Pigeon River
1,500 in the early 1960s to 200 in Country hoping to see elk and hear their bugle-like calls. Rocky
the mid-1970s. Since then, careful Mountain elk, originally brought by rail from the western U.S., were
management of the open areas and introduced to nor thern Michigan three times between 1916 and
forests that the herd needs to thrive 1918. The last release of seven or eight animals near Wolverine
has helped it grow to more than was the foundation of today’s Michigan elk herd of more than
1,100 animals. 1,100 animals. Pigeon River Country Discovery Center photo
THE FOREST’S
FIRST CHAMPION champion of the “P.R.” as he called University of Michigan’s School of
P.S. Lovejoy was the first it. One of the first students in the Forestry, he advocated for the forest
long before he became the state’s
first Game Division chief. “Don’t
we all want, yen for, need, some
considerable ‘getting away’ from the
crowds and the lawnmowers and the
tulips? … Isn’t that [the] yen for the
Big Wild feel and flavor? I claim it
is. … I figger [sic] that a whole lot
of the side-road country should be
left plenty bumpy and bushy … and
some so you go in on foot – or don’t
go at all. I don’t want any pansies
planted around the stump.”
Lovejoy’s legacy is large within
the forest, Franz said. His influence
extended not only to the overall
concepts that led to how the for-
est was developed, but also to the
smallest details. Look overhead at
the beams in the Discovery Center,
for example. Lovejoy came around A trail through the Pigeon River Country State Forest leads to this scenic view.
as it was being built by members of
the Civilian Conservation Corps in their axes and put chop marks in FOREST MANAGEMENT sations like those of early conser-
the 1930s. On one visit, he objected those beams to make them look AND PUBLIC INPUT vationists Herman Lunden and P.S.
to the fact that the beams were ma- more rustic,” Franz said. “He had From its beginning, the Pigeon Lovejoy. There’s a lot more to see
chined rather than hand-hewn. large ideas about land use but also River Country forest has presented here too. An elk peers out from a
“He had the carpenters take small ideas about details.” its managers with conflicting inter- box car. The small office of the park
ests and hard decisions on how to forester has artifacts donated from
balance recreation, economic devel- his family, and the kitchen – large
opment, good forestry and natural enough to cook for a family of
resource preservation. People have seven, guests and work crews – now
always taken an interest in the forest houses hands-on activities for chil-
and played a role in its management. dren of all ages.
When lawsuits were filed over The family’s bedrooms tell the
oil and gas drilling in the forest in stories of Hemingway, the rich ex-
the early 1970s, the Michigan De- periences offered by the forest and
partment of Natural Resources put the memories that have been made
a special management plan in place there.
for the forest. Starting in 1974, the And from there, in the words
DNR appointed a citizens’ advisory of Ford Kellum, who quit his job
council to provide input on manag- working for the Michigan DNR
ing the forest. to fight against oil drilling in the
Those who love the forest cel- Pigeon River Country: “You’ve got
ebrate its diversity, from upland de- your free-flowing rivers. … You’ve
ciduous forests to lowland conifers, got lakes that have no cottages
from remote swamps to grasslands. around them. You’ve got trail roads
But at the heart of their passion is that are just two ruts. You’ve got
the peace and solitude of the forest, the big trees; virgin or not, they’re
its moments of bright sunshine and big. … It’s pretty. And you can get
Renowned conser vationist Aldo Leopold said, “P. S. Lovejoy sired dramatic storms, its ability to inspire back into some of these places and
connection to a wider world and to have solitude. People need a little of
more ideas about men and land than any contemporary in the that.”
conser vation field.” Here, Michigan Depar tment of Conser vation heal.
Find out more about the Pigeon
officers gather at Lovejoy’s 1942 memorial ser vice in the Pigeon PIGEON RIVER River Country at PigeonRiverDis-
River Country. His stone monument, along the Towerman’s Watch DISCOVERY CENTER coveryCenter.org or the Pigeon
Interpretive Pathway, is one of the forest’s iconic locations. Pigeon Inside the Discovery Center, the River Country Advisory Council
River Country Discovery Center photo welcoming fireplace invites conver- webpage.n

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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 49
 33rd Annual Woods-N-Water News

Outdoor Weekend
Imlay City • Eastern Michigan Fairgrounds
September 6th, 7th and 8th Sponsored in par t by . . .

For more information...

www.OutdoorWeekend.net

Perhaps the most popular place with kids

of all ages is the Puppy Tent. It’s filled
with hundreds of hunting breed dogs look-
ing for a new home.

Cer tified in-

structors will
be on hand
to introduce
archery to
the youth
Brothers, Ron and Don Foss have spent a lifetime collecting the most incredible who attend
locked antler display found anywhere. During your visit stop by to see their collection the entire
and hear their enter taining stories of how they became par t of their collection. weekend.

If it is treestands or elevated blinds the Always a crowd favorite is Milt Wilcox’s Ultimate Air Dogs. On Friday bring your dog to
Outdoor Weekend has a wide variety to tests his skill against some of the countries very best dogs. Shows are Friday night,
choose from. Plus much, much more. all day Saturday and Sunday. Maybe you’ll see records broken, maybe by your dog?

50 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS

Chainsaw Reg Pettiebone
car ving and his family
demonstra- enter tain visi-
tions are tors with Native
available lore and dance.
and the The Pettie-
works of ar t bones have
will also be been a popular
offered for attraction for
sale on both years and their
Saturday demonstrations
and Sunday. are not only
enter taining
but also infor-
mative. Don’t
miss a chance
to see this
hands on show
both Saturday
and Sunday.

Dennis Neely steps back in time for you with his frontier
encampment. Dennis and others are available all weekend.

Woods-N-Water News Outdoor Weekend mascot,

Thousands enjoy displays, seminars and fair-style food and drink at the “Bucky” is a kids favorite to see, touch and have
Outdoor Weekend each year. their picture taken with.

At the Judges for the

Outdoor Chili Cook-Off
Weekend you taste test dozens
might even of camp chili’s
see a live made on the spot.
taping of If you would like
an outdoor to enter this event
radio, pod- visit our website at:
cast or TV outdoorweekend.net
show. You or call 810-724-
might even 0254.
be asked to
join in!

WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 51

 A small Michigan College is building a reputation as…
A National Bass Fishing Powerhouse
By Bob Vogel
C
ollegiate level bass
fishing is growing
each year in Michigan.
Colleges and Univer-
sities including West-
ern Michigan, Central
Michigan, Michigan State, Northern
Michigan, Grand Valley, Lake Supe-
rior State and Northwood University
offer bass fishing as a club sport. The
college that has led the way over the
past five years in national rankings
and national success is Adrian Col-
lege, a private, liberal arts college
located in southeastern Michigan.
Dr. Jeffery Docking came to
Adrian College as that institution’s
17th president in 2005. Soon after
his arrival, Dr. Docking named Mike
Duffy as the school’s athletic direc-
tor. Mike was a 20-year veteran
administrator at Adrian prior to this
promotion. When the two began
working together Adrian offered
16 teams; 8 men’s and 8 women’s
sports. Today they boast 16 men’s
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52 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
varsity teams, 13 women’s varsity
teams, 9 men’s club sports, and 7
women’s club sports for a total of 45
teams. Bass fishing is one of these
men’s club sports.
The idea to include bass fish-
ing as a club sport began as a joke.
After a board meeting one evening
a member showed Mike an article
about collegiate fishing. The trustee
laughed and said, “We are adding so
many sports teams you might as well
take a look at this.” Mike did look at
it. He and Dr. Docking agreed there
could be great interest and opportu-
nity in this growing sport. To best
take advantage of the growing inter-
est they would need to hire a quality
coach to guide this new program.
They found their man right under
their nose.
Seth Borton grew up in Morenci,
a small rural community in Lenawee
County. He attended a private pri-
mary school in Adrian. Seth grew up
working with his father in the family
landscaping business. From his
father he learned that hard work is
the key to success. When not work-
ing or playing school supported team
sports Seth was fishing. He fished in
creeks and ponds near his family’s
home. The creeks mainly supported
carp and suckers. One day, almost by
accident, Seth caught a smallmouth
bass. That catch changed and shaped
his life. It was now that Seth was
hooked. He went through his father’s
entire tackle box of lures trying to
solve the bass fishing puzzle.
When about 12 years old, Seth
took a train to Chicago to visit an
uncle who was a tournament bass
fisherman. The uncle opened the
door to more equipment and knowl-
edge. By the time he was in high
school, Seth was fishing five or six
days a week crafting his bass fishing
skills.
Seth attended college in Adrian
at Siena Heights University where
he played basketball and majored
in sport and business management.
Throughout his college years fish-
ing remained his passion. He fished
in local club events, the Bass Fish-
ing League as a co-angler, and the
FLW series where he had several top
finishes. Seth has personally landed
an 8-pound, 8-ounce largemouth in a
tournament in Florida.
Seth did his required college
internship at Bass Pro Shop where he
later became the assistant manager
of the fishing department. Seth began
investigating ways he could turn his
passion into a profession. He fished
in tournaments for prize money and
even won a couple of bass boats. He
was now making a name for himself
in the bass fishing world but sought
a more stable career associated with
fishing. In 2010 he became a regional
merchandiser and pro staff member
of Pradco Outdoor Brands.
Seth applied for the job as bass
fishing coach at Adrian College prior
to their start in February of 2015.
The first time they met, athletic
director Mike Duffy knew he had
found his coach. Seth’s passion,
drive, and work ethic were exactly
what Adrian College was looking for
to lead their bass fishing program.
Seth’s fishing knowledge and his
network of potential sponsors and
partners made the decision to hire
him easy.
In their first year of existence
Seth guided the Adrian Bulldog bass
fishing team to a number one na-
tional ranking (Cabela’s/ Association
of Collegiate Anglers). Seth has also
coached 10 students to All-Ameri-
can status and has had 32 national
championship qualifying teams.
Since their beginning the Bulldogs
 Since their beginning the Adrian
College Bulldogs bass team has been
consistently highly ranked nationally and
currently ranked number one by the
Association of Collegiate Anglers.

have been consistently highly ranked half are from neighboring midwest-
nationally. At the time of this writ- ern states (Ohio, Indiana, Illinois,
ing they are currently ranked number Wisconsin, Minnesota, Kentucky and
one by the Association of Collegiate Iowa). One of their student athletes
Anglers. has come from as far as Montana.
Bass fishing tournaments are Recruiting fishermen from southern
sanctioned by three governing bod- states is a challenge for northern
ies at the collegiate level. They are schools such as Adrian. Southern
the FLW (named after Forrest L. anglers can and do fish year around,
Wood, the founder of Ranger boats) and typically are not fans of our
B.A.S.S. or Bass Anglers Sportsman severe winters. Many of the tourna-
Society and Bass ProShops Associa- ments are held in southern states
tion of Collegiate Anglers. Rules and giving the southern fishermen and
scoring vary slightly depending on schools a “home field advantage.” The recruit must have that stick to it dents, sponsors and partners. Also,
the sanctioning body. However, most These challenges make Adrian’s attitude that pushes him to practice like most coaches Borton says his
tournaments are based on two fisher- success and status as a national fishing nine hours a day. They must least favorite part of the job is the
men in one boat as a team. The team powerhouse even more remarkable. have an attention to detail personality travel and time away from his young
fishes for one or three days (depend- The club has four boats, trailers, all that all great fishermen and hunters family. But, unlike most of us Seth
ing on the venue) and weighs in their associated equipment and tackle. have. It is this spirit that separates a Borton is making a living fulfilling
five fish catch each day. Sponsors provide some of the equip- competitive angler from a pleasure his lifelong passion.
Adrian College sends four to ment and funds. More importantly, fisherman. Coach Borton claims he Athletic Director Mike Duffy is
seven teams to each tournament and the sponsors provide invaluable can tell quickly if a recruit has the proud of his fishing team and coach
will fish in twenty or more tourna- name promotion and branding for the attitude and experience needed to cut Borton. He feels competitive fishing
ments during the long season. Their school leading to more sponsors and it as a successful collegiate angler. in high schools and colleges across
season begins in February and goes partnerships. His advice to would be competi- the nation will continue to grow.
through October. The tournaments The ideal recruit will have the tive fishermen is become a student He is also confident that bass fish-
are naturally in the southern states rare combination of skill, knowl- of bass fishing and prepare yourself ing at Adrian College will someday
early in the year. Competitions move edge, and the competitive person- mentally. This is a much tougher become a varsity sport and continue
north as the weather warms through ality needed to be an elite angler. sport than it appears. to get better and better.
the spring and summer. The same skill set required of any Like most coaches, Borton says Congratulations to Mike, Seth,
Coach Borton decides which of collegiate level athlete. Skills include the most enjoyable part of his job and their Bulldogs. Good luck in
his anglers compete in what tour- boatmanship (can the angler keep the is the relationships he has built this current season and seasons to
nament based on their experience. boat on fish in rough conditions?), with school administrators, stu- come.n
Experience such as: Has the angler accuracy in casting and presentation OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
fished this lake before? Does the an-
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 53
 RIVER ROCKETS!
Mean, Lean and Green…By Joe Bednar
W
hen most of us few others in the Northwest Upper
think of river and and U.P. So I’m not too worried
stream fishing about increasing exploitation of
in Michigan, river pike, knowing most anglers
it’s probably the will still fish for anything but them.
famous seasonal But for the other pike fans out there,
salmon and steelhead opportunities, even if there’s not many, espe-
the ever popular walleye, of course cially targeting rivers, hold tight to
the smaller resident stream trout, your rod grips because when these
maybe smallmouth bass as well as streaking furious missiles hit, it’s
largemouth, panfish, heck even cat- arguably the most explosive strikes
fish may come to mind before what you’ll ever experience. They hit not
gets my vote as the greatest river just to eat it seems like, but to ut-
fish of them all – the northern pike. terly destroy an enemy!
These angry brawlers dwell in many I was discussing this recently
rivers all over the state, and often with one of the few other anglers
grow to very nice sizes given that I’ve met along the way who adores
they thrive on neglect. Give pike pike as much as I do, as we floated
decent habitat, enough to eat, ignore a river with no pike anglers to be
them for the most part and presto! seen as usual. We were ponder-
It’s ‘River Rocket’ time! ing once again why we love them
It’s been too long since I wrote so much, and mystified why more
about pike in rivers, celebrated them people don’t. They strike and fight
is more like it, but even when I did hard, especially in rivers, they are
in the past, it sure didn’t look like relatively abundant on the right
many others, or maybe any others, waters, which are plenty of Michi-
were actually targeting them on the gan rivers, they grow to large sizes
rivers I fish. And it’s been quite a given the chance, but the best fish
few rivers over the years, mainly in still are plenty challenging… All
the Southwestern Lower but also a these are great reasons but then my
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54 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
buddy nailed it when he said “It’s
the violence!”
Yes that’s it, and we love it!
Almost not to be admitted out loud
anymore, but not unlike big smash-
ing hits in football or hockey, build-
ings being blown up in war movies,
mixed martial artists knocking out a
foe with a giant kick in the face, you
know what I mean. So c’mon now,
be honest with yourself – you love it
too. So, you should love pike.
But enough celebrating and
admiration of my favorite fish. How
’bout some strategies for enjoying
them on our rivers?
As always, pick the right waters
to fish; all else doesn’t matter much
if you don’t. DNR District Fisher-
ies Biologists will gladly help, as
well as plenty of other sources like
tackle stores, it’s not complicated in
part because it’s rarely like some-
one protecting their secret trout
holes. If you enjoy just analyzing
and exploring what tends to offer
a good pike fishery like I do, that
works too. Even very small streams
will surprise you. One of my fa-
vorites features ample brown trout
stockings – very effective big pike
chow, thank you for funding that.
I’ve caught pike over 40 inches in
that stream you can jump across in
places, and easily cast across any-
where on it. But entirely faster small
streams, classic trout water, aren’t
usually good. Pike need slower to
still water refuge areas, and most
definitely spawning habitat, usually
adjacent marsh areas, at least in the
high waters of spring. That’s about
it, and the more of their habitat the
better, which tends to not be tiny
streams, but small to medium or
even big rivers.
Part of the fun if you choose
to do mainly your own recon is
candidate rivers consistently have a
diversity of other predators – you’re
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Truly big river pike like this 42-
inch beast caught solo out of a
small canoe can be tough to photo-
graph with only a cell phone.
going to get bit if you just cast lures
fairly well. I sure never complain
about bronze brawler smallmouth,
for example, I’d say my second
favorite fish ever (OK I’ve prob-
ably said that about muskies too, so
maybe it’s just whatever I caught
last that is my favorite).
For tackle, yes it’s not ground-
breaking news but I’d really suggest
you please don’t skimp. The best
you can afford, with ample attention
to the details. I like bait cast and
spinning gear not super heavy like
muskie gear, because I want to en-
joy smaller pike and other fish too.
But enough strength to get the job
done, for me a medium-heavy bait
caster in at least 20-pound mono or
50-pound braid, and medium-heavy
spinning in at least 12-pound mono.
The latest in mono offerings like
the stuff from Sunline offer great
strength for its low diameter and
invisibility, and has low memory.
I’ve been using it more than braids
the last few years.
Leaders of course are a must
for toothy beasts; I usually use
40-pound single strand stiffer wire
which has the diameter of mono of
less than 10-pound test. Fish of all
species seem to care less, even in
very clear water conditions, though
it may be because river fish are just
aggressive a lot of the time. That
buddy I mentioned likes fluorocar-
bon leaders in 50-pound test, also
nearly invisible, and he starts with a
longer one and just trims and reties
as toothy fish beat it up.
In what’s often the close quarters
combat of river fishing with logs,
limbs and other obstructions in the
water and over it, I use rods around
six-foot give or take six-inches, for
better accuracy. High speed retrieve
ratios of at least 6 to 1 in my view
really help. It’s not that you’ll need
blazing lure speeds, it’s to gain line
fast in the exciting drama of big
pike running at you or heading for
big piles of wood, and burn in lures
to maneuver or start another cast
as your lure or boat is heading for
trouble.
The advice above on tackle in-
cluding reel speed is mainly because
boat control, important everywhere,
is even more critical on rivers. It
might be better termed as boat out
of control, since that is what hap-
pens quickly if you don’t manage
the current and hazard situations
well, which for me is usually via a
paddle or oars, but sometimes an
electric motor on bigger rivers. It’s
a constant and yes sometimes tiring
effort of in and out around obstacles,
usually giant trees well out into the
river or even completely across it on
the small rivers. It can be work, but
well worth it.
Even after lots of practice the
boat maneuver crises are still com-
mon. This is most often a big fish
with heavy cover nearby that she’s
trying for, and with the current
pushing everything at it, or snags
as your boat is about to get pinned
against a log. Thrilling or frustrating
depending on how well the day has
been going, usually some of both
and hopefully more of the first.
Second to boat handling is no
doubt casting well. I’ve stressed
this before, the closer to targets the
better and if you aren’t snagging
up some you’re likely catching few
river pike too. But too much of that
sure can lead to a long day, includ-
ing fishing rod between the knees as
I fight a strong current to get back
to a favorite lure hung on a tree
branch on my solo outings in the
canoe or kayak. One plus with river
pike though, and especially in good
water clarity, is their strike zone
can often be farther out than other
species. So close enough works fine
on the good days, which are many.
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They will rocket out of
a tangle of tree limbs
in a greenish blur and
pounce on that lure in a
blink from easily over
10 feet away at times.
Very exciting stuff,
who could not like it?
Lure choice is not
surprisingly down the
list of the most impor-
tant factors with these
often aggressive river
rockets that gladly
annihilate a variety of
baits with a vengeance.
Minnow style baits like
Rapalas and Rebels,
spinnerbaits, in-line
spinners, spoons espe-
cially weedless spoons
can be helpful in the
snaggiest situations.
For quite a few years
I told myself topwater The author finds pike nor th of 30” more common in Michigan rivers than most
wasn’t so good for pike, lakes.
it was just a coincidence
since it seems to be on rivers than probably anywhere So you can add fine table fare in
making a comeback for me now. I else. They aren’t targeted much responsible doses, to the long list of
used to get the occasional topwater including usually no or very little great qualities offered by the great
pike on buzzbaits or body baits with winter take, and growth rates also northern pike in our state’s rivers.
small spinners on the end or both seem better than lakes, replacing Now get out after them and enjoy
ends like a Tiny Torpedo or Devil’s adult fish at a better rate, I believe. the violence!n
Horse. But popping-style lures
mainly intended for bass have been
absolutely crushed by many pike in
recent years for me. Plus one major
benefit of topwater is floating over
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 55

N
orthern Michigan
has a multitude of
top-notch walleyes
lakes that are well
known among the
Wolverine State’s
angling fraternity. Places like South
Lake Leelanau, Burt Lake and
Houghton Lake are recognized as
being some of the top walleye fish-
eries in the state.
But there are others that produce
equally good fishing for walleyes,
but are up-and-coming or are more
popular for other species.
Following are some prime wall-
eye fisheries in northern Michigan
that need to be on your hit list this
summer.
Hubbard Lake
“Hubbard Lake is one of our
best walleye lakes in northeastern
Lower Peninsula,” shared Northern
Lake Huron Unit Fisheries Biolo-
gist Tim Cwalinski. “A recent adult
walleye population estimate con-
ducted by our fisheries unit found
an adult population of about 3.0 per
acre, and that was likely a bit con-
servative. These are all wild fish.”
Alcona County’s 8,850-acre
Hubbard Lake is kind of a mor-
phologic hybrid of Burt and Mullet
lakes, first class walleye fisheries
in their own right. The fishery was
predominantly a perch-fishing venue
since the 1980s and was famous for
giving up the 15-inch jumbo yellow
bellies.
But the MDNR started planting
walleyes in Hubbard from 1980 to
1991, and those plants have resulted
in a burgeoning, self-sustaining pop-
ulation of walleyes. Although the
walleyes are gaining more and more
attention, the bulk of the fishing
effort on Hubbard has traditionally
been for perch and smallmouths.
The MDNR survey efforts estimated
more than 36,000 adult walleyes
in Hubbard Lake with a substantial
number in the 15- to 21-inch size
range. It’s quite likely that the lake’s
walleye population has benefited
greatly from zebra mussels that have
made the water clearer, the infesta-
tion of gobies and the sustained
perch population.
Hubbard Lake has depths in
excess of 70 feet, but the bulk of the
walleye can be found in North, East
and South bays
or off Doc-
tors, Churchill
and Harwood
points. There
are boat
By Mike Gnatkowski
56 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
NORTHERN
MICHIGAN’S
PRIME
WALLEYE
WATERS
Hubbard Lake has depths in excess of 70 feet, but the bulk of the
walleye can be found in Nor th, East and South bays or off Doctors,
Churchill and Harwood points.
launches on the east and south side
of the lake.
During most of the year it’s
pretty hard to beat a crawler harness
and a bottom bouncer for walleyes.
The same rig will catch some of the
lake’s jumbo perch and smallies,
too. Later in the summer some wall-
eyes will suspend over deeper water.
Planer boards pulling stickbaits
and spoons behind Snap Weights or
short lengths of lead core will catch
walleyes then. Try 20 to 25 feet
down over 40 feet of water.
For bait and tackle, contact Side
Door Bait and Tackle at 989-736-
6418 or Blue Water Bait and Gifts at
989-727-2700.
Van Etten Lake
Iosco County’s 1,320-acre Van
Etten Lake was always known as
a place you could go and catch
enough decent-sized perch for din-
ner. Those perch have also support-
ed a pretty fair walleye fishery over
the years.
“Van Etten Lake in Iosco County
is another good walleye lake” shared
Fisheries Biologist Tim Cwalinski.
“The population is made up of both
wild and stocked fish. Walleyes can
grow a bit larger in there with the
turbid and shallower water, river
channel, and occasional migrants in
and out of the lower Au Sable River.
In fact, some of the walleye may
likely be from Lake Huron. Fish up
to 25 inches were collected in the
2010 survey. A nighttime electro-
fishing session we conducted in fall
of 2016 found a large number of
older age groups, with legal-size fish
quite common. Due to its proximity
to the military base, there are some
fish consumption advisories on wall-
eye at Van Etten Lake, with reduced
meals for walleye in the advisory,
but fishing can be good.”
Van Etten Lake is quite shallow
with few places over 25 feet, but
the in-flowing Pine River and out-
flowing Van Etten Creek provide a
steady flow of nutrients.
Walleyes can concentrate in very
specific spots. Points found directly
off the boat launch, the state forest
campground and Air Force Beach on
the lake’s south side are prime loca-
tions to find schools of walleyes. An
unnamed point just to the east of Air
Force Beach has a hole off the end
of it that reaches 33 feet. The wall-
eyes relate to it, making a good spot
to anchor and pitch jigs. Between
Loud Island and the shoreline is a
sharp contour, or pinch point, that
can be exceptional.
Contact Iosco County at www.
iosco.net for information on ameni-
ties, bait shops and things to see and
do in the area.
Lake Margrethe
“Lake Margrethe is a very good
walleye fishery,” Mark Tonello
stated matter-of-factly. “It was again
stocked in 2017 with 40,353 spring
fingerlings,” the Central Michigan
fisheries management biologist
continued. “It struggled a few years
back when we were forced to not
stock due to the Viral Hemorrhagic
Septicemia (VHS) disease issues,
but it is definitely back now.”
“The walleye population in
Lake Margrethe also appears to be
extremely healthy,” Tonello said.
“While a few walleye were present
from non-stocking years, the vast
majority were from year-classes
where walleye were stocked. There-
fore, the walleye fishery in Lake
Margrethe appears to be heavily
dependent on stocked fish. Although
walleye were growing below the
state average, the population is well
balanced with individuals present
from seven different year-classes.
Nearly 80 percent of the walleye
caught in the 2016 survey were of
legal size (more than 15 inches).
The somewhat slow growth exhib-
ited by Lake Margrethe walleye
should not be a cause for concern,
as this phenomenon is common in
walleye populations in Michigan
inland lakes.
“Of particular interest are the
large numbers of walleye from the
2006 and 2002 year-classes, both
of which were stocked. Clearly the
stocked walleye are surviving for
many years. The survey also showed
that Lake Margrethe has a healthy
population of prey species that
include mimic and blunt-nose min-
nows, sand and spot-tailed shiners,
Iowa and Johnny darters, log perch
and assorted panfish.
Crawford County’s 1,930-acre
Lake Margrethe has depth in excess
of 60 feet and abrupt contours, par-
ticularly in the southern part of the
basin. Prime walleye locations are
off Big Bear and Little Bear points
and along the contours found on the
lake’s east side. Early spring finds
walleyes concentrated off Eagle
Point on the north end of the lake.
Pitching jigs tipped with a minnow
or piece of crawler will tempt wall-
eyes, plus a host of other species
found in the lake. Slip bobbers and
leeches are another good bet.
For bait, tackle and fishing
reports contact Skip’s Sport Shop at
989-348-7111.
Manistee Lake
“Manistee Lake in Manistee
County is another good candidate
for walleye,” Fisheries Biologist
Mark Tonello declared. “We don’t
stock it, but it gets lots of natural
reproduction from the Big Manistee
River. It is overlooked by most for
walleye, since most anglers think
salmon and steelhead. It seems
to have gotten several good year
classes recently, as we’ve gotten re-
ports of anglers catching lots of 13-
to 14-inch walleye. Anglers report
doing well after the opener, fishing
the channel between Manistee Lake
and the harbor by floating with the
current and jigging, Detroit River
style. As with all walleye fisheries,
the real gurus fish it after dark and
do very well.”
For bait, tackle and fishing
reports contact Tangled Tackle
Company at 231-887-4242.
since 2010 and won’t be in there
anytime soon, unfortunately,” said
Tonello. “One of the reasons for
conducting the 2010 survey of Ham-
lin Lake was to evaluate the walleye
stocking program. Walleye have
been regularly stocked in Hamlin
since 1989, although there was a lull
between 2006 and 2011. During that
time, only limited walleye stocking
was conducted in Michigan due to
the threat of VHS. By 2011, walleye
testing and rearing practices had
been refined enough that the threat
of stocking infected fish had sub-
sided and stocking was resumed.
“While the walleye catch in the
2010 survey was not overly large
at 37 fish, seven different year-
classes were represented. Also, the
walleye catch per unit effort in gill
nets was 3.7 walleye per net per
night, indicating a good abundance
for an inland lake in Michigan. Of
those seven year-classes found, four
were years in which walleye were
stocked, while three were not. The
presence of fish from non-stocked
year-classes indicates that low-level
natural reproduction continues to
occur in many years. While this is
of the lower lake and
between the South and
Middle bayous on the
south end of the lake.
Dragging live bait rigs
with leeches can be pro-
ductive in 15 to 30 feet
of water off the dunes
and east of The Narrows.
For bait, tackle,
fishing reports and maps
contact Captain Chucks
II at 231-843-4458.
Lower
Herring Lake
Benzie County’s 450-
acre Lower Herring Lake
has a hodgepodge of spe- Lower Herring Lake doesn’t have any
cies that includes trout abrupt contour changes, so it’s an ideal
and salmon, but walleye place to troll with bottom bouncers and
have become one of the crawlers or leeches.
more dominant species
in recent years. “In the ideal place to troll with bottom
November 2015 electro-fishing ef- bouncers and crawlers or leeches.
fort, the only species captured was Try off the in-flow and out-flow of
walleye,” Fisheries Biologist Mark Herron Creek.
Tonello said. “A total of 152 walleye For more information on bait
from 4 to 20 inches were caught. shops and amenities in the area con-
The majority were fish that had been tact the Benzie County Convention

Hamlin Lake
Mason County’s 5,300-acre
Hamlin Lake has a good population
of walleyes in it. They’re just tough
to catch for a couple reasons. For
one, a lake the size of Hamlin can
be a little imposing for first-time an-
glers. Where do you start looking?
Secondly, the structure on Ham-
lin Lake is very abrupt. You can be
in 50-feet one second and two-feet
the next. Finding more gradual con-
tours is the key. And lastly, there’s
so many other species in Hamlin
that it’s tough sometimes to get your
bait or lure past other species to
target walleyes. Try leeches to keep
pesky panfish from stealing your
bait. You might be surprised how
much jumbo perch and slab blue-
gills like leeches.
“We haven’t been in Hamlin
encouraging, the strongest year-class
represented was the 2006 class,
which had been stocked. Clearly,
stocking continues to play a critical
role in the walleye fishery. There-
fore, the DNR should continue to
work with the Mason County Wall-
eye Association to stock walleye into
Hamlin Lake on a regular basis.”
“It is a decent walleye fishery,
but again, those few who fish at
night catch the majority of the fish,”
Tonello noted. “At 5,300 acres, I
think it’s probably tough for new-
bies to figure out, too.”
Walleye move into the shal-
lows under the cover of darkness.
Targeting the 10- to 20-foot depths
with in-line planers and stickbaits
or crankbaits can be very productive
for walleye that will average two
to six pounds. Try along Ludington
State Park on the northwest side
stocked in 2015, or were the result
of natural reproduction. Six other-
year classes were also represented.
Up to age one walleye from this
portion of the survey were growing
1/2 inch below the state average.
The walleye that were stocked in
Lower Herring Lake in 2015 were
marked with oxytetracycline, which
leaves a mark on skeleton structure
of the fish, allowing researchers to
determine whether a fish is stocked
or of wild origin. Approximately 43
percent of the age 0 walleye caught
in the November 2015 effort were
marked and presumably stocked.
The remainder were unmarked and
presumably of wild origin.”
If anything, the walleye popu-
lation in Lower Herring Lake has
gotten stronger since then. Lower
Herring Lake doesn’t have any
abrupt contour changes, so it’s an
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 57

 Friends of the
Shiawassee River
I
was raised on the Shiawassee
River in southern Michigan;
maybe even conceived there.
Every year of my life has a
memory in this river, from
chasing carp or catching
summer smallies, to cracking wood-
ies at first light, and mallards
and giant Canadas in the late
December snow and ice. It is
a resource I love and cherish.
Wading in this river you
may find a tire, bike, or even
an oil drum lying in its bed.
It is not at all uncommon.
As a kid it was normal to
By Nathan Miller
see these things. I
would pass by all
the debris and litter
along and in the river and never bat an
eye, but I never knew the effect it all
had on the river and its ecosystem. I
guess it was a way of this river’s life;
most any river’s life, if you have ever
noticed. As I grew and matured ever
so slowly through life, I started to take
notice into the resource I loved and
cherished so much. Luckily, for my-
self and others, and most importantly
the river, others took notice as well.
Friends of the Shiawassee River
(FOSR), aka Friends, is a non-profit
organization dedicated to the Shiawas-
see River system and its watershed.
I started following FOSR on social
media about a year ago and had been
looking into their website to
learn more about them. They
have a good story and an
even better vision. I had the
privilege of sitting down with
some of their lead members
to hear more about it. This is
a story similar to many other
small organizations around
our country that
share similar pas-
sions for our natural
resources, but it is this organization
and their mission that hits home with
me. We must give credit where credit
is due.
In 1996, the first newsletter was
published, called The River View,
declaring the objective of Friends of
the Shiawassee River: “to identify and
engage all those residents who care
about the river so that we can share
The Stream Team is a great program getting kids outside, in the
river, getting dir ty, and most impor tantly, learning about our amaz-
ing natural resources. Author photos
our concerns, our knowledge, and our
energies to make the Shiawassee River
an even greater source of pride for
our community.” Originally headed
up in previous decades by Jim Miner,
this recent small group of locals saw
reason to restart this organization
to enhance and maintain this water
resource and recreational opportu-
nity and continue the path of Mr. Jim
Miner. Although, there is much work
yet to do, FOSR is a clear example of
how slow and steady wins the race.
Nick Tereck, the President of
Friends, expressed his love, compas-
sion, and knowledge of the river; this,
no doubt, his reason for partnering and
now leading the Friends Organiza-
tion. He expressed how receptive the
community, local businesses, and even
state/federal businesses have been,
throughout the Shiawassee River Wa-
tershed. Nick shared how donations
from local sponsors and grants from
the DNR, Consumers Energy, and the
MI Stem Program have helped keep
FRIENDS Organization going and
growing. These donations and grants
help drive and fund The FRIENDS
Organization in reaching out to the
communities throughout the river’s
watershed with volunteer river clean-
ups, fundraisers, river sampling and
promotional tools. Putting forth care
is one of their mission points (CARE).
Preserving and enriching the overall
health of this river leads the top of this
list, and Nick’s.
Sarah Baker (Stream Team Co-
ordinator) also spoke with me about
their involvement and grants received
from the MI STEM program and
how the FRIENDS Stream team has
become a part of it. This really perked
up my ears. The Stream Team is part
of FRIENDS organization. They

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organize river samplings of benthic
macroinvertebrates to help determine
the overall health of the river in the
location being tested. Best yet, they
partner with the local schools and
local communities. With these school
partnerships, they mostly recruit
high schoolers in the science class.
They are getting these communities
involved away from the living room
and into one of our natural resources.
With so much criticism on parents
and children not being involved or
connected outside because of electron-
ics and social media, I’d say this is
one of their greatest wins. The Stream
Team is a great program getting the
kids outside, in the river, getting dirty,
and most importantly, learning about
this amazing natural resource we have
in our small towns. Over the winter
the FOSR and DNR were able to set
these students up to rear 200 chinook
salmon in the classroom and later
release the young salmon into the
Shiawassee River. It is not whether the
fish will survive after their release into
the river, but the education, science,
and, most of all, the experience of the
river these kids were shown. This is a
huge educational showpiece.
Gary Burk, one of the board
members, Tom Cook, former presi-
dent, and one of the founders of FOSR
shed some light on their involvement
of the dams and obsolete dam re-
moval. Most, or nearly most, of them
between Byron to the Shiawassee’s
end are non-functioning dams. They
have been extremely proactive in
moving things along by sharing their
knowledge of the river’s ecosystem as
well as advantages and disadvantages
dam removal can cause. Many of the
impoundments created by these old
dams have become harmful to the
river itself. Yet releasing decades of
sediment collected in these impound-
ments can be destructive downstream.
FOSR is helping municipalities
delegate and overcome these obsolete
dams with sharing information and the
appropriate contacts. Gary and Tom
went on with what will go in when the
dams come out. Securing the river’s
banks and creating riffles or rapids in
a dam’s place pays several benefits Friends of the Shiawassee River is a non-profit organization dedi-
in the river’s ecosystem. This creates cated to the Shiawassee River system and its watershed.
higher oxygen levels and in the
stress of the summer heat helps most importantly they are being taken place we should hold the deepest
keep the water in these areas advantage of yet not being taken for respect and sympathy for. For me
much cooler than in one of an granted. They have become a privilege the Shiawassee holds my heart and
impoundment. to the recreational user and has opened soul. I have laughed and cried at her
Lorraine Austin (Executive Direc- an even bigger eye into the river’s banks. I have had some of the most
tor) and the FRIENDS team went watershed. phenomenal days of smallmouth bass
on with more initiatives they helped FOSR is a unique and humble and northern pike fishing a fisherman
put into place, canoe/kayak landings. organization. Their many efforts of might dream of. The FRIENDS team
Throughout most of my life up until restoring conservation, removal of was kind enough to give me a better
the last decade if I was going to float invasive species, dam removal, fun- look into who they are, what they are
the Shiawassee River, I was going to draisers, river cleanups, stream team. about and where they stand along this
launch at one bridge and end my float The list goes on and on. They are watershed.
at a select other. Within many stretch- appreciated and if they are not then If you would like to become a
es between the points it could lead up they should at least have the recogni- member/sponsor or would like more
to over a four-hour float. With some of tion they deserve for promoting good information of The Friends of The
these new landings, a quick two-hour health of a watershed. Our waters are Shiawassee River you can reach out to
float is achievable. FRIENDS and what we are known for in this great Lorraine Austin – Executive Director,
other organizations have had a huge state and any organization willing to Office Phone: 989-723-9062, email:
hand into making this river more ac- give back to it is one that deserves this info@shiawasseeriver.org, website:
cessible for recreation. These landings publicity. shiawasseriver.org, Facebook: Friends
have become widely accepted and Our rivers in Michigan are a of the Shiawassee River.n
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 59
 Two Nonagenarian and a Centenarian
still influencing our angling and hunting
pursuits in the State of Michigan
By Rick Fowler
I’ve been lucky enough to interview
three ninety-plus-year-old gentle-
men in my career as a freelance
outdoor writer. Each have signifi-
cant impacts on the forest, the water
and future outdoor enthusiasts in
the state of Michigan. Even today
their passion for fishing and hunt-
ing is evident in their eyes and their
responses.
Joe Zofchak
When my 95-year-old father-in-
law Joe Zofchak (One of the four
brothers who saw action in WWII)
returned from the service he headed
north to Higgins Lake to hunt and
fish. Soon he and three of his broth-
ers had purchased lots just up from
the lake and constructed cabins.
For decades, Joe and his siblings
fished and hunted together. In fact,
for thirty-four consecutive years
they, along with friends and other
family members made the trek to
Armstrong, Ontario every early
June. Also, for more than sixty years
they would hunt deer on public land
near the Grayling/Houghton Lake
area. From these experiences they
would compile an array of memo-
ries and knowledge about the woods
and waters of Michigan which
they passed down to their sons and
grandchildren.
Yet this outdoor knowledge is
not his only gift. Joe is a talented
woodworker who has a penchant for
carving wooden, miniature sailing
vessels and also lure making which
can be seen in the hundreds of cow-
bells he has made for trolling lakers
and browns. His talents are on full
display at our U.P. cottage. The fire-
place mantel and nearly every inside
window sill has one form or another
of his craftsmanship.
Joe is a soft-spoken gentleman,
who doesn’t like a lot of attention to
be given towards his achievement.
I once asked him why he didn’t
take his unique gifts to art shows.
“Naw, I don’t want to do that. I just
like making stuff with my hands
and giving it away to family and
friends.”
Sage advice to be sure and an-
other reason why my generation and
my children’s generation need to
listen to these heroes of battle, and
ethical outdoorsmen.
If I hadn’t listened to Joe
Zofchak likely I would never have
60 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
known how to make cowbells for
trolling, crawler harnesses, reload-
ing shot, distinguishing the differ-
ence between a coyote track and a
dog print. I wouldn’t have experi-
enced the thrill of smelt dipping,
smelt cleaning, and smelt eating. I
would never have learned how to
attach a tippet, listen for the drum
of a grouse, the snort of a buck and
emulate the call of a turkey.
Joe isn’t as active in his creative
talents anymore. The last time he
made it to an opening day of rifle
season was seven years ago. The last
trip to Canada was 2010. He doesn’t
ply the woods for birds anymore,
but he enjoys OUR thrill of the hunt.
He looks forward to telling stories
to, “you young guys, but it’s also
your turn to make tales.”
Harry Whitely
“We are both lucky men aren’t
we Rick? We are both still alive and
we write about Michigan’s outdoors.
Yep, we are lucky!” (Harry White-
ley, 100-years-old, interview with
author, June 2018)
The State of Michigan has clean-
er water, more fish, better parks,
more game for hunters and a more
conducive environment due in large
part to Harry Whiteley’s unselfish
devotion to these vital elements Top left: Harry Whiteley, Chairman of the National Resources Com-
and our quality of life. Whiteley’s mission for an unprecedented six years. Top right: Howard Tanner,
drive to better Michigan’s outdoors the “Father of Great Lakes Salmon Fishing.” Bottom: Joe Zofchak
coincided with his twenty-five years surrounded by family and friends who have been influenced by his
of service on the Natural Resources tutelage.
Commission (NRC), including six tions, improvements and legislation of the state buildings after me (the
terms as Chairman, which is more introduced to make Michigan’s Harry Whiteley Educational Build-
than any other person in the 97-year outdoors desirable for all. We have ing) at the RAM Center in Higgins
history of the commission. these magical places to visit, to hike, Lake in 2013 was a pretty humbling
Whiteley once wrote, “The hap- to hunt and to fish, due in large part experience for which I will always
piest people are those who are more to Whiteley’s leadership during his be grateful.”
concerned about other people than commission tenure. That says a lot considering the
about themselves.” Indeed, Harry Whiteley has plaques, photos, newspapers and
With the DNA of public ser- met a lot of people, made a lot of various other memorabilia that
vice instilled in his pedigree it is friends, traveled extensively and adorn his walls and the desk tops of
no surprise he led the way for so has served his state and its populace his current home office.
many positive events in Michigan’s admirably, but one of the highlights Another significant event in
recreational pursuits. The late Grand of his career was being appointed Whiteley’s long life was being a
Rapids Press newsman, Ray Voss to the Great Lakes Fishery Com- member of the Michigan Outdoor
stated, “Harry Whiteley is the real mission by President George H.W. Writer’s Association (MOWA). “I
balance between the preservation- Bush. was so proud to be president. I made
ists and the exploiters. He reduced “It was a surprise when the so many wonderful friends with this
complicated problems to basics.” FBI checked me out. I guess that’s organization. The people I hunted
Harry says that, “My stint on routine.” Harry also explained and fished with for so many years
the Conservation Commission was “how wonderful it was to be given were these outdoor writers. This
indeed an adventurous and educa- Lifetime Achievement awards from organization made possible many
tional part of my life. I made won- both the city and Chamber of Com- long-lasting friendships and per-
derful friends and learned a great merce in my hometown of Rog- haps some accomplishments, and of
deal about our state.” ers City. Plus, to have the Natural course, some fun times.”
To say nothing of the regula- Resources Commission name one Whiteley retired from the
 newspaper business in 1984 and the
Michigan Conservation Commission
in 1985. Yet he wasn’t going to just
retire and do house chores.
“Instead I rented a small office,
had a phone, my typewriter and the
morning newspaper delivered and
a plush chair. I was very contented,
kept involved in community affairs
and never looked back.” commented
Whiteley.
Memories and reflection are
abundant to this vibrant writer,
statesman, politician, caretaker of
Michigan’s outdoors and adventurer.
He added, “I feel all my experiences
were made possible by being in the
right place at the right time. I had
more great experiences than anyone
could imagine.”
Four years ago, when he com-
pleted his memoirs, he offered this
statement, “It’s been a long journey
and a great ride but it’s not over.”
It is abundantly clear to me that
I am far luckier than Harry Whiteley
after our conversation. I had been
able to accompany him on these
adventures through our interview
and viewing his archives. Harry still
writes a column now and then. A
few months ago, he published one
titled, “A Fighter to the End.” It
was a tribute to a very good friend
who had recently passed. Ever the
constant, he is still concerned more
about other people than himself.
Dr. Howard Tanner
Dr. Howard Tanner’s recently
published book titled, “Something
Spectacular: My Great Lakes
Salmon Story,” is truly spectacular
and the storyteller is extraordinary.
Indeed, Tanner, now 95-years-old,
is referred to by many as the father
of Great Lakes salmon fishing. As
the new Chief of the Department
of Conservation’s Fish Division in
1964, Tanner was challenged to “do
something spectacular.”
He met that challenge by leading
the successful introduction of Coho
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salmon into the Michigan waters
of the Great Lakes. Tanner uses his
knowledge-based, humorous and
inspiring experiences to lead read-
ers into the “insights of Michigan’s
salmon legacy.” His tireless work in
this field has been labeled as, “the
most significant bio-manipulative
program in the history of fishery
management.”
Howard’s love of fishing was
sparked by his father. He remembers
his first opening day of trout season.
He was on the Cedar River with his
father and caught his first trout. His
passion for fish and fishing hasn’t
waned. Even at 95 Tanner still pur-
sues trout at a couple of his ‘favorite
spots’ around Mancelona.
Even with all the accolades, the
notoriety and overwhelming success
with his chosen career he realizes
his work could not have been ac-
complished alone.
“I am proud of what we have
achieved with the salmon fishery in
Michigan. I am thankful for all of
the co-workers, friends and family
who helped me fulfill the reality of
bringing sports fishing back to our
state. It was such a radical decision
I had to make in my career then. I
realized that I could alter the bod-
ies of the Great Lakes forever with
my decision to become the Salmon
Director.” Dr. Tanner got it right.
Today, Tanner is dedicated to
recruiting the newest generations to
take over as watchmen of the Great
Lakes. “What I worry about, what
keeps me up at night, is that a lot of
people don’t think about the Great
Lakes. Michigan needs leaders of
our public waters. The word public
means it belongs to the people, not
the state, but it doesn’t really belong
to anyone; the responsibility to keep
them great belongs to the public …
belongs to you.”
He is currently a very active
member of PROJECT FISH which
is the Involvement of youth in a
long term and continuous, com-
munity supported, sport fishing and
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aquatic resource education program.
“This,” he says “is my effort to be
part of the future.”
In June The Michigan Outdoor
Writers Association (MOWA)
and the DNR were proud to intro-
duce Dr. Howard Tanner as a new
member of the Michigan Outdoor
Hall Fame at Crystal Mountain in
Thompsonville, Michigan. Letters
of appreciation and congratula-
tions accompanied Dr. Tanner’s
award such as this one from Dennis
Grinold, Chair, U.S. Committee of
Advisors to the Great Lakes Fishery
Committee who wrote…
“I am really pleased to serve as
a reference for Howard A. Tan-
ner’s nomination for the Michigan
Outdoor Hall of Fame. Dr. Tan-
ner gained statewide regional and
national/international significance
for his work on developing and
expanding the recreational fishery
of the Great Lakes. Many people
today aren’t aware that we didn’t
have much of a recreational fish-
ery before he took the initiative to
introduce Pacific salmon in Michi-
gan waters. I’ve served as a citizen
advisor to the Great Lakes Fishery
Commission and that has given me
the opportunity to learn about and
appreciate the entire Great Lakes
fishery. I take real pride and satis-
faction in knowing that Dr. Tanner
started something in Michigan that
folks throughout the region now
enjoy.”
At the end of the book Tanner
poses a question for his readers and
indeed all who partake in one of
Michigan’s most popular recreation-
al experiences, “Who will be fishing
for Great Lakes salmon fifty years
from now? Time will tell of course,
but I do hope that succeeding gen-
erations will value what we started
some fifty years ago–the largest and
most valuable freshwater sports fish-
ery in the world–and will make the
commitment to keep it great.”
In his closing words to his fel-
low Michigan Outdoor Writer’s
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Tanner repeated his oft quoted ad-
age, “I have been able to do what I
wanted to do. In all my experiences
I survived.”
It seems it is our time to do what
we can for Michigan fisheries. We
will survive too.
The years are starting to take
their toll on this exclusive society of
influential outdoorsmen, this ‘band
of brothers!’ Their legacy can be de-
fined by this statement from a WWII
vet, “I lived a good life. Not with
riches and money. I love to teach. I
love to help people.”
A fitting tribute to three guys
who just wanted to teach. As an-
other generation, we need to realize
that thousands of these libraries are
closing daily. We need to tap into
them.
Joe Zofchak, Harry Whiteley
and Howard Tanner are proud men
who needed few accolades. Indeed,
they are ordinary people, but yet
the foundation of the American way
of life. Our job is to listen to their
stories, learn from their experiences
and know what they are teaching
us needs to be passed on to another
generation of hunters, anglers and
outdoor enthusiasts before it’s too
late.n
Visit our booth at the
Woods-N-Water News Outdoor Weekend
September 6th, 7th & 8th
Grand Rapids, MI 49509
616.550.8483
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 61
 Consumers Energy Funds Habitat Improvement
Project to raise more walleye for Michigan anglers
U
pgrades funded by Con-
sumers Energy will help
the Muskegon River Wall-
eye Pond produce 300,000
more walleye yearly for anglers and
significantly reduce expenses to
operate the Michigan Department of
Natural Resources facility.
A multi-year $140,607 grant
from the Habitat Improvement Ac-
count (HIA) has been used to install
a permanent power source and pro-
vide three new pumps at the pond
where walleye fingerlings are reared
for stocking in the Muskegon River
and other Michigan waters.
“It’s exciting to see how these
funds are applied and to know they
help increase recreational opportuni-
ties and enrich outdoor experiences
for Michigan residents and visitors,”
said William Schoenlein, Consum-
ers Energy’s manager of hydro and
renewable generation.
Having a permanent electric-
ity source and reliable pumps will
allow precise, automatic water level
control at the 15-acre pond located
in the Muskegon State Game Area.
A high water level is optimum dur-
ing the rearing period for the health
of the young walleye. Keeping the
water level low during the non-
rearing period helps control vegeta-
tion and unintended species such as
crayfish and frogs from taking up
residence which reduces the number
of walleye fry that can grow in the
pond.
Also as a result of the project,
MDNR personnel will save travel-
ing from Plainwell, Mich. offices to
fuel the World War II vintage diesel
generator and keep the pumps run-
ning.
The MDNR estimates the up-
grades will increase walleye finger-
ling production by 300,000 and save
108 hours of labor costs per year.
“These upgrades are a real boom
to Michigan anglers, as they will
help make more walleye available
for stocking,” said Ed Pearce, fisher-
ies technician supervisor with the
MDNR. “As a bonus, the work will
result in significant savings in our
costs to operate the Muskegon River
Walleye Pond.”
Historically, the number of wall-
eye reared has varied based on the
amount of maintenance performed
at the Muskegon River Walleye
Pond. The number of walleye fin-
gerlings reared there dropped from
an average of 700,000 per year from
1997- 2001 to a low of 124,800 in
2014, due to reduced staffing and
mechanical issues with the pump
system.
Crews installed a mile of electric
lines underground to the Muskegon
River Walleye Pond in November,
2018. The new pumps are expected
to be installed and controlling water
levels at the pond this summer.
Consumers Energy funds the
HIA, which is administered by
the MDNR, as part of its license
agreement with the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission to operate
its 11 hydro generating facilities on
the Au Sable, Manistee and Mus-
kegon rivers. When deciding which
initiatives receive funding from the
HIA, a MDNR fisheries manage-
ment team reviews project proposals
to determine the positive impact a
project may produce.
Since being implemented into
the hydro project licenses in 1994,
Consumers Energy has contributed
more than $9 million to the account.
Three other projects totaling
$421,019 were funded this year
through the program for fisheries
research, habitat improvement and
stream restoration:
• $88,070 to the Manistee River
Restoration Committee to conduct
a survey on the Manistee River
between M-72 and the Yellow Trees
Landing to prioritize future erosion
control projects.
• $147,906 to Huron Pines
organization to remove small dams
and replace culverts from Au Sable
River tributaries in Oscoda County
to allow fish to access important
spawning and winter cover.
• $185,043 to a joint venture
among the MDNR, US Forest Ser-
vice, and Trout Unlimited for habitat
improvement and erosion control
downstream from Tippy Dam on the
Manistee River.
Also $30,490 was directed to the
Mason-Griffith Founders Chapter
of Trout Unlimited for evaluation,
planning and prioritization of future
stream habitat improvements on the
Au Sable and Manistee rivers.
Consumers Energy, Michi-
gan’s largest utility, is the principal
subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE:
CMS), providing natural gas and
electricity to 6.7 million of the
state’s 10 million residents in all 68
Lower Peninsula counties.n

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 Comanche
M
1862? - 1891
onroe, Michigan,
was the home
of George Arm-
strong Custer,
the famous U. S.
Army officer and
Cavalry Commander in the Civil
War and the American Indian Wars.
He certainly led a colorful life. It is
well known that General Custer and
his entire regiment lost their lives at
the Battle of the Little Bighorn on
June 25, 1876.
Although badly wounded, one
Army Cavalry horse from
Custer’s unit survived that
terrible battle. Found by
reinforcement troops after
the battle, he was nursed
back to health and retired
with military honors. For
years thereafter, Comanche
was reputed to be General
Custer’s horse
and the sole
survivor of the By Darryl Quidort
most famous
Indian battle of all time. Comanche
lived to become a symbol of the
American West, the favorite horse of
a generation of Americans, and one
of only two horses in U. S. history
to receive a military funeral after his
death.
To dispel a couple of misconcep-
tions, Comanche was not Custer’s
horse. The army and government
of that time let people “assume” he
was Custer’s horse and that he was
the sole survivor of the Little Big-
horn Battle because they needed the
public’s backing while they contin-
ued to subdue the American Indians.
Also, Comanche was not the only
surviving Cavalry horse at the Battle
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64 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
of the Little Bighorn. Many other
horses survived and were taken by
the Indians as spoils of war. Badly
wounded, Comanche was prob-
ably too weak to travel and was left
behind.
The birthplace and early history
of this famous horse are unknown,
but Army records show that the
gelding was purchased by the U. S.
Army for $90 on April 3, 1868 in
Saint Louis, Missouri. He was then
branded U. S. on his left shoulder,
with the letter C for cavalry, and
sent to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Captain Myles Keogh, a dash-
ing, hard drinking Irish-
man, liked what he saw in
the 15 hand high, claybank
colored horse with a small
white star on his forehead.
Keogh bought the horse for
his own personal mount.
On cavalry marches he rode
his regular horse, Paddy,
saving Coman-
che to be ridden
only in battle.
Most U.
S. Army horses had numbers,
not names, but while fighting the
Comanche Indians on the Cimar-
ron River near Fort Dodge, Kansas
in 1868, the horse was wounded
by an arrow. Heroically, he carried
Captain Keogh faithfully through
the remainder of the battle. After the
fight, when a broken arrow shaft and
point were removed from the horse’s
right hind quarter, he was given the
name, “Comanche,” to honor his
bravery. Exhibiting the same tough-
ness, Comanche continued to carry
Captain Keogh fearlessly into battle
even after being wounded again in
1870 during a skirmish near the Sa-
line River in Kansas. Captain Keogh
HUNTING SOUTHEASTERN
MICHIGAN ON
PRIVATE PROPERTY
The war horse, Comanche, 7th Cavalry U. S. Army, sole sur vivor of
the Battle of the Little Bighorn.
was understandably very proud of
his war horse.
That fateful day in June of 1876
when Captain Keogh rode Coman-
che into battle with General Custer,
the 7th Cavalry was devastated and
the entire detachment was wiped
out. When reinforcement troops
arrived, two days after the terrible
battle, they faced a gruesome scene
of the remains of soldiers and horses
rotting in the hot sun. The faithful
horse, Comanche, was said to have
been found standing beside the body
of his owner, Captain Myles Keogh.
The horse was very weak, barely
able to stand, and had four serious
bullet wounds. He was carefully
transported to Fort Lincoln aboard
the steamer, Far West, with his body
suspended in a sling. After a long
convalescence, Comanche again
recovered from his wounds and was
officially retired from the army.
In April of 1878, Colonel
Samuel Sturgis issued the order,
“The horse known as ‘Coman-
che’ being the only living represen-
tative of the bloody tragedy of the
Little Big Horn, June 25, 1876, his
kind treatment and comfort shall be
a matter of special pride and solici-
tude on the part of every member of
the Seventh Calvary to …see that
a special and comfortable stable is
fitted up for him, and he will not be
ridden by any person whatsoever,
under any circumstances, nor will he
be put to any kind of work. Hereaf-
ter, upon all occasions of ceremony
of mounted regimental formation,
‘Comanche,’ saddled, bridled and
draped in mourning, and led by a
mounted trooper of Company I, will
be paraded with the regiment.”
Thereafter, Comanche was
led, as a riderless horse, in official
military parades with Cavalry riding
boots reversed in the saddle stirrups
to honor fallen Cavalrymen. Other
than that duty, he had the run of
the post at Fort Riley, Kansas. He
became a favorite of all and, like
his former owner, Captain Keogh,
developed a taste for beer due to the
many toasts made to his heroism
and valor in battle.
In this day of using satellite im-
agery and drone technology to fight
wars, we have forgotten just how
valuable, and necessary, the horse
was in all American wars up to and
including World War One.
A faithful war horse had the
will to carry his rider dependably
through the thunder of gun fire, to
withstand the eye and lung burning
clouds of black powder smoke, even
to receive painful wounds and gal-
lantly “soldier on.”
The bond between man and
horse was a powerful union. In
Horse Latitudes, Deanne Stillman
wrote, “Who knows what draws a
man to a particular horse? ...Some
unspoken message that passes be-
tween humans and the animals that
have been placed in our service? If
deciphered, might it say ‘I will carry
you into hell and back’ and might
not the human emit a scent, a vibra-
tion that says, ‘I know, and I will
take care of you always.’”
The four legged U. S. Army
troops are perhaps the unsung he-
roes of war.
Comanche died of colic No-
vember 7, 1891. The battle scared
veteran bore the marks of seven
wounds received in the service of
the U.S. Army. He was given a
military funeral with full military
honors.
Strangely, his hide was then
taken to the nearby University of
Kansas Natural History Museum to
be mounted. However, the officers
from Fort Riley never bothered to
return for him, or to pay the taxi-
dermy bill. Comanche is still there
today, on display in a humidity
controlled glass case, wearing his
U.S. Cavalry blanket and saddle as
issued.
The war horse, Comanche, was
reputed to be the sole survivor of
the Battle of the Little Bighorn.
Well, the men of that day are gone,
and the other horses of that day are
all gone and have been forgotten.
I guess, in a sense, Comanche is
the sole survivor of an era gone by
when gallant horses carried brave
men into battle.n
 For more than 25 years Mike Avery has
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 65
 World class bowfishing
adventures on Saginaw Bay
T
his spring and sum-
mer here in the Thumb
has been the wettest
and most unpredictable
weather I’ve ever seen
in my day. I recently
talked to a 90-year-old resident who
said the same thing. However, the
first weekend in July looked like
it might be a dandy when my sons
Jake and Josh joined me for a night-
time bowfishing charter out of Bay
Port, one of my favorite fishing (and
duck hunting) ports in the Thumb. I
had reserved our joint adventure for
the three of us with Matt Anthony
who runs Extreme Bowfishing Char-
ters (989-912-2332).
We met Anthony and
his 10-year-old son Jackson
(who is truly a great and
dependable First Mate) at
the Bayport Marina and
had an opportunity to view
the very special boat while
it was being unloaded at
the launch. Anthony had
By Tom Lounsbury
purchased it
in Louisiana
66 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
where it had been used for alligator
hunting in the bayous which often
feature very shallow water. It is a
20 ft. Go-Devil Boat powered by a
special 35 horse Go-Devil outboard
with the long extended prop, which
can ease matters through as shallow
as 4 inches of water, and even over
obstacles submerged just below or
just above the surface.
Anthony has constructed a stable
shooting platform at the bow of the
boat that places the shooter’s feet
3 feet above the water, offering a
great view of swimming fish down
below. For nighttime bowfishing
the gunwales are equipped with
several large LED lights
powered by a gas genera-
tor, and it all combines for
very effective bowfishing.
Typically, Anthony prefers
to keep it usually to no
more than three clients
per trip for the ease and
convenient use with bows
and arrows on the shooting
platform, which
also features
Brothers Josh (lt) and Jake Lounsbury at the ready while nighttime
bowfishing in Saginaw Bay near Bay Por t.
two tall pedestal chairs that swivel AMS compound bows are set at
around. Daytime charters are avail- around a 40 lb. draw weight and do
able also, but nighttime charters by not need to be brought back to “full
far are the most popular. draw” to fully function, which is
The archery tackle is provided beneficial when bowfishing, where
by Anthony, which are fishing reel things usually can happen quick and
equipped AMS bowfishing bows obtaining a full draw sometimes
using barbed fiberglass arrows. The is often impossible to accomplish
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(this also works great with the
various draw lengths of multiple
people). Fingers are used to draw
the bowstring back and it is a purely
instinctive shooting style because
of the quick shooting action that
typically occurs. Anthony describes
it as being very similar to shooting a
slingshot (another definition is what
I call “snap-shooting” a bow).
Folks can certainly bring their
own archery equipment if they so
choose, but heavy draw weight
bows are really not necessary, be-
cause shots at fish rarely exceed 20
feet. Anthony has noticed that bows
brought to be used often feature
heavy draw weights for deer hunt-
ing, with the only accomplishment
being arrows getting buried deeper
in the mud (my favorite bow for
bowfishing is actually a 35-pound
recurve that has done the trick for
many years).
I can assure you this is nothing
like “shooting fish in a barrel,” and
it is actually extremely challenging
because the fish are usually mov-
ing and so is the boat, with missing
being a very common experience,
but it sure is a whole lot of fun, and
generally with plenty of action too!
The key to hitting fish in the water
with an arrow is to aim low and the
deeper the fish is in the water, the
lower you aim, but it is usually a
guessing game in the end.
It was a splendid and very calm
evening with clear skies when we
set out on our bowfishing adven-
ture, and the last weather report I
had heard said there were “possible
spotty showers.” A weather check
on a smart phone also didn’t show
anything on the radar as we slowly
worked along close to the shoreline
through the reeds and shallow water.
With the LED lights on, the clarity
of the water was spectacular, with
a myriad of flying insects fluttering
all around just above the water’s
surface creating a surreal and beauti-
ful setting. Seeing fish happened at
the get-go and lots of them too. Our
quarry being sought was carp, gar-
pike, dogfish, catfish and even gold-
fish which actually can get quite big
in the Great Lakes. When a goldfish
was spotted in the LED lighting, it
often appeared as a glowing ball of
fire. As was expected we had more
misses with our arrows than hits, but
the action was fast and continuous.
With it being the 4th of July
weekend and involving festivities
here and there, we were also blessed
with the occasional fireworks going
off along the distant shoreline. Our
plan had been to keep bowfishing
into the wee hours of the morning
and we were about two hours into
our fine adventure when my periph-
eral picked up a flash in the southern
sky that I thought might have been
lightning instead of fireworks. I also
noticed clouds were gathering up in
the night sky in that direction and
heading our way, while the bowfish-
ing remained fantastic. The Go-
Devil boat was doing a fantastic job
working its way through the mixture
of reeds and even over a floating
dead ash tree.
Then I thought I felt a drop of
water hit my cheek, which was
confirmed when more raindrops
began coming down a few minutes
later. This went on for awhile and
was quite pretty entailing absolutely
no wind with huge raindrops com-
ing straight down, but not in a real
Josh with a nice gar he arrowed
while nighttime bowfishing.
heavy manner. That however, would
change shortly, with the big rain-
drops suddenly seeming like a solid
wall of water coming down with it
even driving right through my cap
brim and running down my face
and even into my eyes. It was liter-
ally impossible to see anything in
the water, with the only good news
being it was actually a warm rain
soaking us all down (with it
being such a good evening and all,
my sons and I had inadvertently
left our rain gear in my Jeep). The
rainstorm had literally come out of
nowhere and had caught us flat-
footed.
Then a lightning bolt flashed
across the sky, not close though, but
it was a clear signal to head back to
the launch site as quickly as pos-
sible. It is not wise to be caught out
on Saginaw Bay in an open metal
boat during a lightning storm, no
matter how close you are to shore,
and we weren’t far at all. The Go-
Devil however made it quickly
back, and despite the LED lights, I
could hardly see the dock in the hard
driving rain. I was sure glad Matt
Anthony was at the tiller and got us
all back in fine order. So much rain
had come down so quickly, the wa-
ter in the parking lot when I walked
to my Jeep was ankle deep.
Although our bowfishing
adventure was on the short side, it
was truly sweet, and we’ll be back
for more. Saginaw Bay is truly a
dependable and fantastic hotspot for
world class bowfishing.n
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 67
 New Invasive Species Alert!
AND THIS ONE IS A DOOSY…
I
Dear Fish Diary:
t seems in the past
fifteen years or so, the
list of invasive species
here in Michigan steadily
continues to climb. We
are getting hit from the
air, ground and water.
Plants, bugs, disease,
birds and fish have all
steadily begun to creep into
our mitten borders. It seems
the only thing we haven’t
been hit with is an influx
of reptiles. Oh wait, yes
we have. In the last week
of June a six-foot alliga-
tor was hit on
a busy road in
Lansing. Less By Ron St. Germain
than a week
later one was discovered in Jackson.
Car/deer accidents are quite com-
mon here in Michigan, but if you
want to get a real laugh out of your
insurance agent, tell them you hit an
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68 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
alligator here. I’m sure the insurance
fraud paper work will soon follow.
Finding alligators in Michigan is
not a new thing, hitting one in traffic
in the middle of a busy city actually
is. Believe it or not, piranhas, boa
constrictors, exotic spiders, pythons
as well as lizards have all been
found or reported in our
state. It doesn’t mean they
will survive a Michigan
winter, but the jury is still
out on whether alligators
actually could.
Unlike Florida and
some other southern states
where large snakes, lizards
and unfriendly fish have
kind of taken
over, we don’t
have to worry
too much about these tropical invad-
ers taking a foothold. Not like New
York or California where snakes
come up your toilet. But I do kind
of worry about this ’gator thing
95
A face only a mother could love? Or possibly over 5,000 Michi-
ganians that keep them as pets and since they either outgrow or
outlive their owners, they are unfor tunately released into the wild
at some point.
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“THE RIGHT TO HUNT”
though. We are prepared for a bear
encounter but not a large lizard. I’m
prepared to unhook a pike, but I’m a
bit unsure about unhooking a gator.
Studies have shown that alliga-
tors can actually dig a den and go
into a type of hibernation during
freezing temperatures even though
their preferred temperature is around
70 degrees. My preferred tempera-
ture is around 70 degrees too, but
I won’t eat your poodle. Piranhas
and other tropical fish have been
found congregating near hot water
discharges in our rivers but eventu-
ally their luck runs out. But what if
a male and female alligator some-
how found each other and started a
Michigan population?
To put this into perspective it
does pose some questions. These al-
ligator sightings are because people
have released their pets, or their
pets have gotten away. For instance,
the six-footer that was recently hit
in Lansing escaped. Who has an
alligator as a pet? Well first, define
“pet.” Webster’s defines a pet as
“a domesticated animal kept for
pleasure rather than utility.” So, if
you have an animal that you’ve kept
for pleasure and it can’t read a tape
measure or use power tools then it’s
a pet. If it truly is a pet…you release
it? The only pleasure I see coming
from a ’gator is sadistic pleasure.
You simply like keeping something
in a cage and genuinely like seeing
live animals get eaten alive. It’s not
going to crawl up on your lap; flip
over on it’s back and let you rub
its belly while you watch outdoor
television shows.
Secondly, if you have a 6-foot
’gator or bigger, how does it “es-
cape?” In the case of the ’gator hit
in Lansing, the people had it for 21
years. After 21 years, the 200-pound
’gator named Wally finally figures
out the lock and key system to its
cage, unlocks the front door after
decoding the alarm, somehow goes
undetected onto a busy road, where
it’s tragically hit by a motorist? I’m
just having a hard time envisioning
an alligator escaping without help
from the pet monkey.
As I’m doing research about
northern ’gators, I find a family
that had gotten an alligator for their
young son as an emotional sup-
port animal. So, how does a 7-foot
alligator serve as an emotional
support animal to a child? Because
alligators do not cuddle, they are not
affectionate, and in fact, their entire
purpose in life is to stare down prey
with those freaky, beady eyes. They
are stalking every second of every
minute of every hour of every day
with two thoughts… “If I get close
enough to that thing, can I eat it?”
“If I can’t eat it, should I at least
try?”
I found another incident where a
woman was convicted for trapping
feral cats and feeding them to her
alligator. This is why you don’t just
let your pets run around outside!
Estimates say that over 5,000
alligators live in Michigan and there
are no restrictive laws prohibiting
people from keeping them. At the
rate that people seem okay with just
chucking their unwanted pets into
the environment, maybe we need to
be even more careful when trounc-
ing around our lakes, rivers, streams
and ponds. Those in the Lake Erie
and lower Lake Michigan water-
sheds should be worried. Those in
the Upper Lake Michigan and Lake
Superior watersheds should only
continue to worry about the Lock
Ness Monster and Big Foot. There
was an old saying – “If you love
something, set it free. If it returns, it
was meant to be.” Just to be specif-
ic, this does NOT include your pets,
especially your 200-pound, 7-foot
alligator. To just release a domestic
animal that you have cared for into
the unknown is a pretty horrific and
inhumane act. If you’re guilty of
this, you should have to spend some
time behind bars, with an alligator,
that just stares at you with those
freaky, beady eyes every second of
every minute of every day with two
thoughts on its mind.
Funny Fish Stories Wanted:
Strangest Thing
You’ve Ever Caught?
Send a short description of your
“best or worst” fishing day, or worst
fishing-related adventure, or strang-
est thing you’ve caught to me. You
don’t have to write the entire story,
just a brief outline of what hap-
pened. If it has some humor to it
I’ll be getting in touch with you and
we’ll work on the completed story
together.
Contact - Woods-N-Water News
columnist Ron St. Germain by
calling (517) 626-2814, emailing
DaPhotoDude@aol.com. Visit the
author’s Facebook page www.Face-
book.com/BearwaveBooksn
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 69
Coexistence and Situational Awareness
The fable of Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf...
I
t happens every summer
when people spend increased
time outside. A coyote is
noticed for a fleeting mo-
ment or seen in the same area
day after day and suddenly
fireside chats and neighborhood
Facebook chat groups explode with
sensationalized reports of a coyote
that is ‘lurking’ about.
Words have power. “A deer was
lurking in the woods and watching
me” would be a laughable sentence.
But when it comes to coyote sight-
ings, ‘lurking’ seems to be a word
that makes its way into a descriptive
sentence. Coyotes don’t lurk. They
watch. They listen. They sniff. They
observe. They act. And they respond
to human behavior.
It is natural to have apprehen-
sion about or fear of what we do not
understand. But all too often when it
comes to the eastern coyote, manu-
factured fear and irrational hatred
thrives without even trying to under-
stand the witnessed behavior. One
thing is certain; coyotes in rural and
urban areas are learning from and
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adapting to our behavior far more
quickly that we even try to under-
stand their behavior. That should not
surprise us for coyotes are highly
intelligent and possess great curios-
ity tempered by caution. Our worlds
overlap.
With those thoughts in mind,
and the reminder of the power of
that single word ‘lurking,”
I’m sharing the story of a
coyote I came to know well
that will perhaps set minds
at ease. He is the coyote
pictured in the accompany-
ing image. It was captured
on South Manitou Island, a
wilderness gem of Sleep-
By Jonathan Schechter
ing Bear
Dunes
National
Lakeshore.
During May and June I was
the National Park Service’s volun-
teer lighthouse keeper and almost
always had my camera with me as
I meandered the trails, climbed 100
feet up to the catwalk of the 1871
lighthouse tower or traversed across
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the windswept perched dunes on the
island’s western shore. The entire is-
land is coyote habitat. Every county
in Michigan is coyote habitat.
I saw that coyote at relatively
close rage more than dozen times
and on a few occasions we were just
separated by about 30 feet. Some
of the encounters were during the
day, others towards dusk. I
am certain based on tracks
observed in the sand he saw
me many more times than I
saw him without me being
aware of his presence. I am
also convinced he came to
know my behavior very
well for we shared the same
habitat and
our paths
frequently
crossed for I was living in his hunt-
ing and foraging habitat. The coyote
was never lurking, but simply going
about his daily routine just I was.
Naming wildlife is not some-
thing I do but I initially referred to
the coyote as the “breakwall coyote”
for the majority of our crossing path
encounters occurred at or within a
few hundred feet of the breakwall
that protects the 1871 lighthouse
tower from storms and rising waters
on the Manitou Passage.
The most dramatic encounter
which I will always cherish oc-
curred early one morning while I sat
on the steps to the entrance of the
lighthouse. I was casually watching
herring gulls that build their nest
on the breakwall when suddenly
the gulls sounded alarm calls and
took flight as a female common
merganser paddled away from the
breakwall. My assumption was a
bald eagle flew overhead or people
were approaching for a tour of the
lighthouse and perhaps walking on
the breakwall. I was wrong.
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Seconds later the coyote
emerged from the water side of
the breakwall and climbed up
to the closest gull nest and with
what seemed like an extraordinary
amount of care took an egg in its
mouth. He spotted me as I raised my
camera, gave me a passing glance,
and trotted down to the end of the
breakwall and then into the woods
to enjoy his breakfast treat. I was
delighted at his slow retreat for it
told me that he did not consider me
a threat, just a human to be wary and
watchful of when it was time for a
morning omelette.
Several days later while up on
the catwalk I watched him emerge
from the woods, pause, look about,
sniff the air and then proceed to
the water’s edge to scrounge for
alewives that had washed ashore
during a stormy night. He kept
glancing upwards at the catwalk and
I presume he noted my movement
and perhaps then thought to him-
self, “He’s lurking about again.” I
have no doubt that just as I came to
recognize him by his behavior, gait,
and rather thick coat, he recognized
me by my behavior, my attire, my
scent and my daily routine for if
other humans came near he would
do his vanishing act.
I believe that coyote practiced
situational awareness of intruder
humans and realized I was not a
clear and present danger, just some-
one to be watchful of when he went
about his routine when foraging for
berries, eating gull eggs, hunting
snowshoe hares or just “patrolling”
and scent marking his territory.
I always respected the fact the
“breakwall coyote” is a wild animal
but one windy day while walking
down the remnants of what was
once a road during the late 1800s,
during the era of sailing ships and
steamers coming into the harbor,
that coyote and I almost met on a
curve. That encounter left me smil-
ing. We spotted each other at the
same moment and he rapidly moved
way off to the side and climbed
a small bluff but continued his
purposeful walk passing me about
40 feet away. We both turned back
to look at each other at the same
time. From that moment on the”
breakwall coyote” became “Brother
Coyote” to me.
Occasionally in the closing days
of June I would notice him when
he was in the foredunes hunting for
wild strawberries. Yes strawber-
ries; and I did the same. His scat
confirmed that observation. Coyotes
are omnivorous creatures and South
Manitou provides many seasonal
treats in addition to the abundance
of herring gull eggs, chipmunks and
snowshoe hares.
I tried to understand ‘my’
coyote’s behavior and wander-
ings and reached the point where I
could easily differentiate him from
others I had fleeing glimpses of on
several occasions while hiking the
high dunes or walking the shore at
sunrise. I emphasize that point since
no two coyotes behave exactly the
same and they are territorial crea-
tures. In the world of nature there
are few certainties but I am certain
that “Brother Coyote,” which I first
encountered last summer during that
long term island stay, came to know
my behavior rather well and did not
look at me as a threat, just a human
to be wary of.
Although my official role with
the National Park Service was as a
lighthouse keeper I often morphed
into ‘the nature guy’ when day
visitors and campers tossed wildlife
questions my way. I shared some of
the coyote encounter details with is-
land visitors who heard coyote yips
1-800-700-2628
at night or on rare occasions had a
fleeting glimpse of the coyotes of
South Manitou. Most were delighted
to know that coyotes lived on the
island; a few expressed concern, and
that’s when I slipped into my educa-
tor role, and preached coexistence.
The conversation often started
when they inquired about tracks
on the shore that “look like dog
tracks.” I mentioned that dogs are
not permitted on the island for
many reasons and even the pres-
ence of a single dog living on the
island would alter coyote behavior
in response to the canine intruder.
With a constant presence of even a
single dog, the possibly of territorial Coyotes are omnivorous creatures and South Manitou provides
conflict soars and even more seri- many seasonal treats in addition to the abundance of herring gull
ously just one dog coming onto the eggs, chipmunks and snowshoe hares. Author photo
island as a human companion could
introduce ticks that are not native to
the region as well as diseases overflowing bird feeder that attracts a story to share and not report a
not present on the island that mice and rabbits, or even then scent lurking coyote with fear-mongering
could threaten the lives of the of a compost pile or pet food left content akin to the fable of Little
coyotes, a keystone species of the outside. Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad
islands. Facts overcome fear and make Wolf.
It’s time to reemphasize coy- coexistence easy. Perhaps the next Jonathan Schechter lives in Oak-
otes do not lurk on South Manitou time you have a chance sighting of land County. Email: oaknature@aol.
Island or anywhere else in the state. a coyote, you will come home with comn
Coexistence is very easy by practic-
ing situational awareness and being
aware of the diversity of wildlife in
a given area. Coyotes are not picky
eaters and their opportunist feeding
behavior allows them to not only
survive, but thrive on wilderness
areas such as South Manitou Island
and in urban-suburban areas across
all of Michigan.
Coyote sightings are on the
uptick because we are out and about
more now and sometimes as a direct
result of humans providing a food
sources, intentionally or acciden-
tally. Rumors of ‘packs of coyotes’
are unfounded and most likely are
based on a coyote or two paying
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 71
 BLACK POWDER SHOOTING SPORTS...BY DENNIS NEELY

“I SHOT GOOD TODAY...”

“T
he sign is on
the left,” the
scribbled note
read. “Follow
the road by
the fort to the
range,” was the last instruction from
Jack Lee.
Sun showered through the half-
leafed-out hardwoods. The board-
and-batten-sided scoring shed came
into view. A Ford Ranger pickup and
a Chevy SUV, both backed up to the
covered firing line, occupied the first
two parking spaces. A few minutes
later, a blue Ford F-150 followed the
two-track, raising no dust.
Jack Lee and Mike Painter
admired an enlarged photo of Jerry
Murray’s monster spring gobbler.
Yellow, embroidered letters on Mur-
ray’s camo ball cap displayed his
service in the Korean War. The three
chatted about hunting, family and
local happenings.
A ways away, Terry Lindeman
hefted a shooting box from the shiny
F-150 and set it on a weathered Most black powder clubs shoot one match at a time. The third match of that early-June Sunday afternoon re-
loading bench. As he prepared for quired five shots at 50 yards using cross-sticks. Wild River tree photos
the afternoon’s shooting, he slipped sports. Match offerings vary from at Lijewski’s house. Word spread, Clan’s 60th Annual Fort Rendez-
a Traditions .50-caliber percussion club to club, determined by member and the club grew. In 1960, the vous, also called “Shoot Time at
pistol from its case. preference. Most hold at least one organization purchased 39 acres on Manistee,” was held in late June,
Don Miller carried his spot- club shoot a month. Some clubs Camp Road, southeast of Manistee. 2019.
ting scope and tripod to one of the publish a newsletter, which includes The spacious range accom- At one p.m. sharp, competitors
concrete benches. Aisha Mills-Hen- important member information modates matches from 25 yards to posted targets for the first relay. The
drix rested a left-hand, percussion and announcements, plus the prior 100 yards. The facilities include the Manistee Clan monthly shoot began
muzzleloading rifle in a notch in the month’s shoot results. “Fort Rendezvous” building, the with a black powder pistol match at
wooden loading bench, three posi- “We have muzzleloading shoots “Trading Post,” target scoring shack, 25 yards.
tions to Lindeman’s right. the first and third Sundays of the camping area and a large play- “We’re trying to get our muz-
“New gun? I see you found a month from the end of April into ground for children. The Manistee zleloading pistol program going
lefty,” Lindeman said, as he stepped September,” Mike Painter, the presi-
back from the bench.
“Yes, a .50-caliber, Thomp-
dent of the Manistee Clan, said. “We
follow the National Muzzle Loading Muzzle Loading State Events
son/Center Renegade. I named her Rifle Association safety rules for
‘Millie.’ I’m excited to see how she those shoots. The weather is a part Aug. 1-4—54th Annual Frontier Shoot: Grand Valley Cap n Ballers™
shoots,” Mills-Hendrix said. of the scheduling, and the members 616-681-0164 or 269-792-4384
“You’ll have fun with that rifle,” want to stop shooting when the Aug. 9-11—Primitive Rendezvous: Columbiaville Sportsman’s Club
Lindeman added as Mike Painter small game season opens. 810-793-7799 or 810-223-3956
walked over to join the conversa- “The second and fourth Sun- Aug. 11—Memorial Shoot: Clinton River Muzzle Loaders: Detroit
tion. Pleasantries highlighted the days we shoot single shot, which
Sportsman Congress: 586-292-6821
arrival of black powder shooters at is the Schuetzen-style rifles that
the Manistee Clan Muzzle Loading use smokeless [powder]. For those Aug. 15-18—MSMLA State Shotgun Championship: Grand Valley
Club on the first Sunday in June. shoots we follow the American Cap n Ballers™: 269-370-0095 or 616-836-5760
Michigan is blessed with about Single Shot Rifle Association rules. Aug. 16-18—NMLRA Michigan Rifle/Pistol Territorial: Beaverton
thirty clubs that shoot black powder “We hold ‘sight in days’ before 301-256-7784
on a regular basis. The Michigan opening day of deer season, which
State Muzzle Loading Association are open to the public. We provide Aug. 17—Blanket Shoot: White River Muzzleloaders: Rothbury
maintains a directory of state clubs targets and club members are avail- 231-861-5265
on their website: http://msmla.org/. able to assist with adjusting sights Aug. 17—Center Fire Pistol Woods Walk: Clinton River Muzzle Loaders:
For most Michiganders, a local and scopes. We host a Wednesday Detroit Sportsman Congress: 586-292-6821
muzzleloading club is less than an night ladies pistol league and a
hour’s drive away. The website also Monday night men’s pistol league, Aug. 23-25—33rd Annual Rendezvous: Benzie Sportsman Club: 231-378-2145
includes the MSMLA Shoot Sched- too. The National Rifle Associa- Aug. 24-25—Fun Tyme at the Range (Women only):
ule, which lists shoots open to the tion’s rules apply there,” Painter Grand Valley Cap n Ballers™: 269-792-4384
public. added. Aug. 31—Sporting Clays (modern shotgun): Grand Valley
Local clubs like the Manistee In 1953, two friends, Bob
Cap n Ballers™: 616-307-7728 or 616-836-5760
Clan, located at 3125 Camp Road in Adams and Dick Lijewski, kicked
Manistee, Michigan, are the back- around the idea of forming a muz- Aug. 31-Sep 1—Fall Shoot Rendezvous: Lansing Muzzle Loading Gun Club
bone of the black powder shooting zleloading club while playing pool 517-393-2772
72 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
again,” Terry Lindeman said. “We
try to do everything we can to burn
black powder.” He began to smile
and shake his head as he poured a
measured charge down the pistol’s
rifled bore. “I bought a Hopkins and
Allen pistol kit in 1966,” he added
with a chuckle, “that was before I
could drive.”
Three shots into the match, Jerry
Murray withdrew. “The sear bar
isn’t working properly,” he said, a
bit disgusted. “The gun is clear and
safe. I don’t have the tools to fix it
here, so I’ll look into it at home.”
“Terry, you won the pistol
match,” Jack Lee said as he handed
Jerry Murray counted out round
balls for the next relay. “You have
to be prepared,” he said with a
smile. Each relay is different at the
Manistee Clan monthly club shoot.”
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the target to Lindeman.
“We don’t have any prizes,”
Lindeman said. “We’re here for fun
and bragging rights until the next
shoot.”
The Manistee Clan’s monthly
rifle program combines the five-shot
scores from four matches: offhand
at 25 and 50 yards, and cross-sticks
at 50 and 100 yards.
“As a club, we shoot mostly
percussion muzzleloaders,” Mike
Painter explained. “There are flint-
lock shooters who attend the Fort
Rendezvous, but this area of the
state is heavy to percussion shoot-
ers.”
“I normally shoot a percussion
rifle,” Henry Rozmarek said as he
benched a long, slender rifle. “This
flintlock is a .32-caliber, southern
mountain style. I thought today
would be a good day try it out.”
At 50-yards offhand, the cap
on Terry Lindeman’s 50-caliber
Hawken-style rifle snapped, but the
powder charge did not go off. “If
you had a flintlock, it would go off,”
Rozmarek chided as Lindeman kept
the muzzle pointed downrange and
recapped the nipple.
“BOOM!” Orange flame
belched from the barrel’s muzzle,
but with a slight delay. “That
hang fire didn’t help my score,”
Lindeman said, shaking his
head.
Such good-natured kidding
is common among black powder
shooters. Sometimes a comment
will weave its way through mul-
tiple monthly gatherings. Now and
again a notable incident will become
legendary among club members, im-
mortalized with a framed target or
perhaps a hastily scrawled quotation
tacked up in a clubhouse or target
shack.
Aisha Mills-Hendrix was new to
the black powder side of the Manist-
ee Clan. “I shoot in the Wednesday
night women’s league,” she said. “I
knew they shot black powder. That’s
Aisha Mills-Hendrix fired her third shot at the position #6 target, posted
at 50 yards. “I’ve got lots of room to improve,” she said. “I try to shoot
better than the target before.”
something I always have been inter- and pushed the button with great
ested in. I came out a month ago and ceremony.
the guys loaned a rifle and helped “Did everyone adjust their
me shoot. I fell in love with black sights?” Don Miller asked as the
powder.” members settled in at the 100-yard
When the range closed after range. Murray opened the brass
the 50-yard offhand match, Mills- patch box and checked the piece of
Hendrix glanced downrange as Jerry paper with the reminder of elevation
Murray approached the target back- adjustments used on his .50-caliber
ers. “Well that’s embarrassing,” she Hawken rifle. Despite rivalries,
said with her hands on her hips. “We friends help friends in the black
make the veteran go down range to powder shooting sports.
pull and post the targets?” After the With the last relay complete,
next relay she walked downrange to everyone moved into the scoring
help. shack. Jack Lee took off his glasses
For cross-stick matches, the and set to work. Murray helped
shooter sits at the shooting line with record scores on the monthly sum-
the rifle supported on two crossed mary sheet.
sticks, bolted together, driven in “Well, how did the old guy do?”
the ground and adjusted to his or Don Miller asked when Lee pushed
her personal shooting height. Most back from the steel office desk.
shooters sit on a pad or rug. At “The old man is back,” Lee
87-years-young, Murray sat on the said. “Jerry won at 163. You were
ground like the rest of the competi- next at 144-1X.”
tors. Everyone congratulated Murray.
After his fourth shot, Murray “I was the top shooter out here for
rolled onto his left side as he got up. six or seven years,” he said, “then
“BEEP! BEEP! BEEP…” The red I taught Jack how to shoot and he
Ford Ranger’s horn blared and the beat me for five years. But I shot
lights flashed. Murray just laughed. good today…”
“Give me a minute to get up, it’s not Give the black powder shooting
as easy as it used to be.” He stood, sports a try, be safe and may God
benched his rifle, pulled out his keys bless you.n
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WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 73
 My Thoughts, My Views, My Opinion...
New Commercial Fishing Bills in Michigan
B
ills are emerging fast and
furiously regarding new
commercial fishing laws
in Michigan. Instead of
merely imparting my own
opinion regarding these new bills I
am going to try to collect the main
points that differentiate these bills
from each other and present
them as they are. Educated
anglers can make up their
mind on what they feel is
best for our state moving
forward.
A little overview of
commercial fishing in
Michigan: The first com-
mercial fishing regulation
was developed in 1929.
Since that time many By Mark Sak
things in the industry have changed.
According to the DNR, there were
thousands of commercial licenses is-
sued. Today, there are approximately
50 licenses issued throughout the
Great Lakes. Parties on both ends
of the spectrum understand that the
regulations need to be updated. That
is the main reason we are seeing
these bills being introduced in both
the Michigan House and Senate. An-
National Wildlife Refuges boost
local economies by $3.2 billion
U
.S. Secretary of the
Interior David Bernhardt
announced last month
that 53.6 million people
visited national wildlife
refuges in 2017, which had an eco-
nomic impact of $3.2 billion on local
communities and supported more than
41,000 jobs.
The figures come from a new
economic report by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service titled Banking on
Nature 2017: The Economic Contri-
butions of National Wildlife Refuge
Recreational Visitation to Local
Communities. The report is the sixth
in a series of studies since 1997 that
measure the economic contributions
of national wildlife refuge recreational
visits to local economies.
“The National Wildlife Refuge
System continues to be a strong eco-
nomic engine for local communities,
supporting tens of thousands of jobs
across the country. President Trump
is committed to expanding public
access to these natural resources and
improving recreation infrastructure,
so more people have the opportunity
to experience our world class refuges
and enjoy the great outdoors,” said
Secretary Bernhardt.”
74 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
other important part of this equation
is tribal fishing rights. The United
States District Court enforced an
1836 Treaty giving tribes the right
to net certain Michigan waters. This
Consent Decree was updated in 2000
and is up for renegotiations in 2020.
Defining “total allowable catch;”
is a term used that defines
how many pounds of a total
fish population can be har-
vested in any lake or region.
The total allowable catch
is divided between tribes,
commercial fishers and sport
anglers.
There is a lot of infor-
mation in all these bills.
Every bill introduced
deals with some
basic details of commercial fishing.
Licenses, boundaries, the working
condition of nets and gear, oversight
by the state, packaging of fish etc. It
also creates an advisory board made
up of commercial fishers from every
great lake, one from the Michigan
Fish Producers association, a mem-
ber who is a wholesale fish dealer,
the President of the Michigan Char-
ter Boat Association, and a member
The report analyzes recreational
visitation at 162 national wildlife
refuges around the country to estimate
the economic role refuge visitors play
in local economies. This report uses
the individual refuge results to esti-
mate the local economic contributions
of the entire Refuge System.
“Millions of visitors are drawn
each year to the Refuge System’s
world-renowned wildlife-related
recreation opportunities, generating
local economic benefits,” said Marga-
ret Everson, Principal Deputy Direc-
tor, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
“National wildlife refuges demon-
strate that in addition to conserving
our nation’s wild heritage like bald
eagles and bison, migratory waterfowl
populations and some of our nation’s
most important waterways, these
public lands and waters add real value
to local economies.”
National wildlife refuges gener-
ate many individual and societal
benefits, including fish and wildlife
conservation, open space, science and
education, water quality improvement
and flood resilience. The thriving
fish and wildlife populations of the
Refuge System also attract millions of
recreational users. Some visitors take
of the sportfishing community.
There are also very different propos-
als that specifically deal with game-
fish. Specifically, these gamefish are
walleye, lake trout and smallmouth
bass.
Senate bill 389 sponsored by
Sen. Kevin Daley as well as the com-
panion House bill 4790 sponsored
by Rep. Sara Cambensy will allow
commercial netters to harvest a mini-
mum of 10% up to 20% of the total
allowable catch of these gamefish.
In Saginaw Bay, this bill mandates
a minimum of 20% up to 30% of
the total allowable catch of walleye
specifically.
The alternate bills introduced in
the house are HB 4567 sponsored
by Rep. Jack O’Malley, HB 4568
Sponsored by Rep. Pauline Wendzel
and HB 4569 Sponsored by Rep. Jim
Lilly. All three of these bills need
to pass in order for any to become
law. These bills will not allow the
harvest of walleye, lake trout and
smallmouth bass by commercial
fishermen.
The ‘bycatch’ issue is a big part
of these bills and another reason this
has been a hot topic. Bycatch in this
part in heritage sports, such as hunting
and fishing, where those activities are
compatible with refuge management
goals and other recreational activities.
Others enjoy hiking, paddling, wild-
life viewing or nature photography.
Wildlife-related recreation fuels
the economy throughout the nation.
The National Survey of Fishing,
Hunting and Wildlife-Associated
Recreation, published every five years
by the Service, informs the Banking
on Nature report. The most recent
survey found that more than 103 mil-
lion Americans, or 40 percent of the
United States population age 16 and
older, pursued wildlife-related outdoor
recreation in 2016 and spent nearly
$156.9 billion.
The Banking on Nature study also
found:
• National wildlife refuges are
seen widely as travel-worthy destina-
tions: 83 percent of refuge spending
was done by visitors from outside the
local area — an increase of 9 percent
from the 2011 study.
• Trip-related spending generated
$3.2 billion of economic output in
regional economies — an increase of
20 percent from the 2011 report.
• More than 41,000 jobs (up 18
instance refers to other, non-targeted
species found in the nets. Current
law states all bycatch must be re-
turned to the water. Commercial fish-
ers want to be able to keep bycatch.
Bycatch obviously varies in each net
that is pulled on our Great Lakes.
All five bills have been referred
to respective committees at this
point. Some hearings began in June
and will resume in September. Work
groups consisting of various conser-
vation groups, commercial anglers
and the DNR will provide feedback
related to their various member
and agency positions on the issue. I
would urge every person, no matter
where your stance may be to contact
the sponsors of these bills or work
through these various work groups to
make sure your voice is heard. I will
be following this closely and will
keep all informed. One thing I have
been informed by most participants
on this issue is it will be important
to get the State of Michigan’s
Commercial fishing regulations
up to date and settled before the
state starts renegotiations on the
Consent Decree with Tribal fishers
in 2020.n
percent from 2011) and $1.1 billion in
employment income (up 22 percent)
were generated.
• The combined economic contri-
bution to communities nationwide is
more than six times the $483.9 million
appropriated by Congress to the Ref-
uge System in FY 2017.
• This edition of Banking on
Nature is the most comprehensive
to date, representing a 70 percent
increase in the number of refuges
sampled, compared to the 2011 report.
The report contains case stud-
ies of 162 national wildlife refuges.
The Refuge System is an unparal-
leled network of 567 national wildlife
refuges and 38 wetland management
districts in all 50 states and five U.S.
territories. There is a national wildlife
refuge within an hour’s drive of most
major metropolitan areas. National
wildlife refuges provide vital habitats
for thousands of species and access to
world-class recreation, from fishing,
hunting and boating to nature watch-
ing, photography and environmental
education.
For more details and a full listing
of each refuge’s economic impact,
read the Banking on Nature report and
explore the visual data online.n
 My Thoughts, My Views, My Opinion...
Wind Turbines: Threat to the Great Lakes
I
much prefer to write about fishing.
Unfortunately lately all my time
is being consumed by “fighting”
to keep industrial wind develop-
ers from building wind projects in Lake
Erie. In all my life I could never have
imagined being in such a dire place.
“My lake,” Lake Erie, is about to be
turned in to an industrial power com-
plex. Lake Erie is a National Treasure
which is supposed to be held in Public
Trust by the government for the benefit
of everyone, not an industrial power
project.
For ten years I’ve been fighting wind
turbines in the Great Lakes. Projects
like the New York Power Authority
(NYPA) to build industrial scale wind
turbines in Lakes Erie and Ontario. The
proposal at the time was called “Great
Lakes Offshore Wind,” (GLOW), which
proposed about 130 wind turbines; the
primary site was to be in Lake Erie.
Almost concurrent to our fight against
GLOW there was another project being
proposed in Lake Erie off Cleveland,
Ohio. Lake Erie Energy Development
Company (LEEDCO) called their pro-
posed project Ice Breaker. Ice Breaker
is a six to nine industrial scale wind
turbine project to “test the feasibility”
of constructing wind turbines off shore
in Lake Erie, however, the broader goal
by LEEDCO is to build another 1,400 to
1,500 wind turbines in Lake Erie. And
most recently Diamond WTG, LLC
a wind energy development company
owned by Mitsubishi, has proposed a
wind project in eastern Lake Erie. The
proposal is for 50 industrial scale wind
turbines with 4 megawatt generators.
So far we’ve been successful in fighting
these projects.
Developers and supporters of al-
ternative energy sources make a lot of
claims about the benefits of their proj-
ects such as we need green energy to
reduce CO2 emissions. We must reduce
our dependence on fossil fuels. The
developers will also claim that putting
wind turbines in the lakes will add fish
attracting structures that will improve
fishing. Developers and politicians who
support such projects claim that wind
turbine projects create jobs. Develop-
ers will tell us that they are “tapping” a
free energy source to make inexpensive
electricity. There is a lot that develop-
ers don’t say about these projects in the
lake that are real important. So, let me
tell you why I think wind power project
development is “bad” in the Great
Lakes.
Reducing CO2 emissions is a myth.
How the power grid “works” can be a
bit complicated but here is a simplified
explanation. There is base load power
usually supplied by nuclear plants,
hydro, or coal. Base load power is the
power that is “always” there so you
can flip a light switch and your lights
come on. When businesses and factories
Guest Column By Capt. Tom Marks
start up in the morning there is a surge
in demand. Natural gas plants kick in
to meet this peak in power demand.
These plants ramp up through the day
as the demand increases. This is a
simplistic explanation but it is how the
grid “works.” Now you will be able
understand the myth that there is a net
CO2 reduction when wind generation
is incorporated into the power grid.
Wind energy is intermittent, variable in
intensity, out of sync with demand and
unpredictable. Wind energy is weather
dependent. Wind energy has no capac-
ity value as other forms of energy have.
We can rely of nuclear power, hydro,
and natural gas to produce power on
demand, thus these sources have capac-
ity value. Wind cannot promise delivery
of power; it requires backup 24/7/365
and the backup source for wind in most
cases is natural gas or another fossil
fuel. These backup plants can’t be shut
off when the wind is blowing because
you cannot predict when the wind will
not be able to produce electricity. Thus
wind turbine generating power plants
do not replace any existing fossil fuel
electric generating plants.
Do wind turbines create fish attract-
ing structure?
I do not know! The wind develop-
ers are being very dishonest if they
claim that they know. There are no wind
power plants the sizes being proposed
in any freshwater body in the world.
There is no data to support their claims.
I do know that wind turbines on land
create vibrations that are harmful to
humans and animals. There is plenty
of research to support that infrasound
generated by turbines cause deformities
in animals living near these structures.
There is certainly lots of data confirm-
ing human health as well as quality of
life is impacted by wind turbines. The
power transmission cables connecting a
wind project to the grid will lay on the
lake bottom. Power cables have mag-
netic fields around them when power
is traveling through them. Fish can be
impacted by magnetic fields which may
disrupt important migration patterns,
and forage activity but we don’t have
the data for large projects in freshwater
lakes to be certain.
The Great Lakes were once a reposi-
tory for our industrial pollution. The
solution to pollution was thought to be
dilution. Sadly we found out there was
only so much pollution the Great Lakes
could handle before damages occurred.
After the 1972 Clean Water Act we
became “enlightened” and stopped pol-
luting the Great Lakes. Since then bil-
lions of dollars have been spent by the
federal government and the surrounding
states to restore the Great Lakes. We are
still spending huge amounts of money
for Great Lakes restoration. Construc-
tion of large wind turbine projects will
disrupt the buried industrial pollution
legacy. It is best to leave those deep
contaminated sediments undisturbed.
If not, once again we risk the health of
the fishery and make fish unsafe to eat.
We certainly will negatively impact the
source of drinking water that 35 million
people depend upon.
Wind turbine projects create jobs,
well only temporary jobs. The good jobs
are very specialized and those workers
will likely be workers from overseas. A
wind power project once built is very
automated and controlled from a distant
location. It takes only a few techni-
cians at a computer. The turbines do
require maintenance, again these are
specialty jobs and crews travel around
the country as contracted maintenance
crews. Jobs created will be minimal.
Our economy is booming, right now we
are almost at full employment, so we re-
ally don’t “need” these jobs that is why
when foreign workers come in to build
turbines you never hear any uproar.
There is some boost to local businesses
but it is again only temporary.
Free energy, it reminds me of the
promises made by another energy
source back in the 1950s that never ma-
terialized. The states that support “green
energy development” mandate that the
power grid operators buy electricity
produced by Wind Power Projects. The
wind power company negotiates power
purchase agreements with the grid
operators. It is hardly fair to the electric
customer because the grid operator is
forced to buy the electricity produced
regardless of the cost. The power
purchase agreements often extend for
the life expectancy of the wind power
project, about 20 years, to make the
project profitable. The power purchase
agreement that LEEDCO negotiated
recently in Ohio, for the Ice Breaker
project will charge customers 30 cents
per kW hr., the current customer rate
from conventional sources is 5.5 cents
per kW hr. That free source of power is
mighty expensive. Wind power plants
are not financially sustainable without
power purchase agreements, property
tax breaks, and project subsidies from
the government.
Here is what the wind developer
doesn’t tell you. The reason they want
to build offshore in the lakes. They pay
no property taxes to a town, county or
school district. For the developer it is a
real cost savings that is not passed on
to the consumer. The wind developer
doesn’t tell you what happens when the
wind turbine outlives it usefulness.
Who is responsible for decommission-
ing?
Companies are putting up “bonds”
to pay for the decommissioning but
who can predict the cost 20 or 25 years
into the future. Often the company that
builds the project sells it to another
company, and when it becomes obsolete
the last owner goes out of business leav-
ing useless wind turbines rusting and
falling apart. When I asked NYPA what
were the plans for GLOW at the end of
its “life” they were just going to knock
the turbines over and leave them on the
lake bottom. The typical wind turbine
contains 400 to 500 gallons of oil. It
is not uncommon that within a wind
turbine project that several will leak oil.
The last thing we want is oil leaking
into our source of drinking water. Wind
turbines kill tens of thousands of birds
and bats every year. The Great Lakes
and especially Lake Erie is in a major
migration route. Any wind turbine proj-
ect will be deadly for migrating flocks
of birds. Infrasound from wind turbines
has been associated with health impacts
to humans and livestock living near
projects. It is undetermined if these low
frequency sounds will have the same
or worse impact on the Great Lakes
ecosystems.
The presence of wind turbines in
the Great Lakes will be hazardous for
helicopters hampering search and rescue
operations for boaters in trouble on the
lakes. Wind turbines potentially could
interfere with radar and air surveillance
monitoring for illegal crossings of the
border on Lake Erie and Ontario. The
turbine towers will incorporate designs
to break ice that is pushed around them
it is hard to predict the impact it will
have on reefs when the ice potentially
could be scouring the lake bottom all
winter as opposed to just the during the
spring melt. There is no data; it will
be an experiment on the Great Lakes.
There will certainly be a visual impacts.
I believe most people will find sunsets
viewed through a maze of wind turbines
less than pleasing. There is a value of
the wide open expanse of the lake view.
Shore front property is valuable, a wind
Wind Turbines page 76
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 75
 Hot Topics In Our Great Outdoors...
Michigan applauds reintroduction, strong support
of Recovering America’s Wildlife Act legislation
O
n-the-ground wildlife
and habitat conserva-
tion in Michigan and
around the country
earned critical sup-
port this week, with
the reintroduction of Recovering
America’s Wildlife Act – bipartisan
federal legislation that would provide
a $1.4 billion solution to the decline
of the nation’s fish and wildlife and
their natural habitats. U.S. Reps.
Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Jeff
Fortenberry (R-NE) today announced
the updated RAWA bill in Washing-
ton, D.C.
The bulk of the funding –
roughly $1.3 billion – would be
shared among all U.S. states with an
approved, congressionally mandated
Wildlife Action Plan that clearly
defines their conservation goals and
strategies. The remaining $97.5 mil-
lion of the national total would be
designated for Tribal nations’ conser-
vation efforts. Under this legislation,
Michigan would receive approxi-
mately $27 million annually.
Passage of the Recovering
America’s Wildlife Act would help
Michigan:
• Keep common fish and wildlife
species common.
• Prevent extinction of fish and
wildlife species currently listed as
threatened or endangered.
• Have cleaner air, water and
land, supported by healthier fish and
wildlife habitats.
• Connect people with nature.
• Implement a strategic approach
for priority conservation actions.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer praised
the legislation as a smart, creative
and much-needed step for the nation
and for Michigan.
“Michigan is known for its
Great Lakes and natural areas, but
invasive species, climate change
and disease have led to declines in
Wind Turbines: Threat to the Great Lakes:
project in its view will certainly reduce
this value and potential property tax
revenue.
President Bush declared these lakes
a National Treasure. How can anyone
allow a National Treasure be desecrated
by an industrial project? We would
never allow a wind developer to build
wind turbines on the National Mall or in
Yellowstone National Park. Why would
we allow the Great Lakes to become an
industrial park? The Great Lakes are
held in the Public Trust for all Ameri-
76 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
Michigan wildlife and their habitats.
One-third of our country’s fish and
wildlife species are at risk of becom-
ing threatened or endangered unless
we proactively implement on-the-
ground conservation measures,”
said Whitmer. “This bill, along with
proper funding, is key to preserving
Michigan’s environment. By protect-
ing what makes Michigan unique,
we’re investing in our future, creat-
ing jobs and continuing to bolster our
economy.”
Department of Natural Resources
Director Dan Eichinger pointed to
the recovery of the state’s Kirtland’s
warbler population as clear evidence
that such proactive efforts work. The
beloved songbird, which nests in
young jack pine forests in northern
Michigan, had once fallen to just
167 nesting pairs in the early 1970s.
Today, the DNR is proud to say that
count sits at more than 2,300 nesting
pairs – well above the established
recovery population goal.
“The Kirtland’s warbler come-
back truly is a Michigan wildlife
management success story, aided by
efforts from the DNR, the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest
Service, conservation groups and
many individual volunteers,” Eich-
inger said.
“Funding provided under the
Recovering America’s Wildlife Act
is a once in a generation opportunity
for wildlife conservation,” Eichinger
said. “That level of support will
enable Michigan to help and protect
more of the unique fish and wildlife
communities that are intertwined
with Michigan’s outdoor heritage
and natural landscape.”
Amy Trotter is the executive
director of Michigan United Conser-
vation Clubs. The organization is the
National Wildlife Federation affiliate
here in Michigan, as well as a long-
time partner on many DNR wildlife
cans to benefit, not foreign industrial
wind developers.
When I first started opposing wind
projects in the Great Lakes it was by
project proposal by proposal but the
developer likes this tactic they know in
time they will wear down the opposition
and that they will prevail. In Ontario,
Canada there has been a moratorium
on construction of wind turbines in the
Great Lakes for over ten years. It is time
we do the same in the United States.
Our Great Lakes are too valuable of an
The lake sturgeon is Michigan’s largest fish species, growing up to
well over 6 feet in length and more than 200 pounds. There are
only 24 populations throughout the state; 12 of those populations
are at risk of being lost for good. Additional work is needed for
recovery.
conservation and habitat improve-
ment projects.
“Conservation is a team sport.
It isn’t something only a hunter or
angler partakes in – it is an endeavor
shared by all residents of a com-
munity to better their forests, waters
and wildlife,” Trotter said. “Instilling
an ethic of conservation stewardship
and volunteerism in Michigan resi-
dents ensures that the next generation
will enjoy all the splendor that we
have been afforded. This legisla-
tion would help Michigan carry that
conservation message and education
further, to engage even more resi-
dents.”
Michigan’s Wildlife Action Plan
is a key piece of the puzzle in suc-
cessfully conserving fish and wildlife
and their habitats, and a required
component for RAWA funding eligi-
bility.
asset and natural wonder to risk an ex-
periment by industrial wind developers.
Once these projects are built in the
lakes there is no going back and we
will have opened the doors to all
developers.
One last bit of information, wind tur-
bines are pitiful when it comes to their
productivity. New York State has 1,987
megawatts of installed wind generating
capacity. All of New York State’s wind
turbines were producing only 136 mega-
watts to the grid as I wrote this article.
In developing the plan, con-
servation partners across the state
worked together to identify priori-
ties and goals for a 10-year period
(2015-2025). They first selected
priority habitats – like water and land
habitats on which to focus, and then
identified the priority species within
those habitats, needed actions, and
links to other Michigan wildlife con-
servation and restoration plans.
The resulting Wildlife Action
Plan provides the framework for
these resources’ long-term protection
and health, which are a big part of
Michigan’s history, identity and ap-
peal. The plan would help determine
prioritization of RAWA funding.
Learn more about the Recover-
ing America’s Wildlife Act legisla-
tion and associated benefits at the
National Wildlife Federation website
NWF.org.n
from page 75
That is a productivity level of 6.8% of
their full potential, this is typical. Its
NYS’s goal to replace all of its fossil
fuel generation with wind and solar. If
we were to rely on just wind we would
need at this hour 51,455, 3MW wind
turbines to replace all our fossil fuel
sources for the state. New York State
is 54,556 square miles in area. We do
not need more wind turbines we need
a better plan. Please support a morato-
rium on wind turbine construction in the
Great Lakes.n
 Woods-N-Water News
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

TROPHY PAGE
Maycee
Cortright’s
first king
salmon. It
weighed
in at 28
pounds
and was
caught on
the
Gulkana
River in
Alaska on Dana Blake of Dryden along with
a recent her son, Matt, and her trophy large-
trip. Alicia Renner’s first salmon catch! mouth bass she caught fishing in
Lake Orion!

Left: Amy Czajka with her Lake Huron

lake trout. Right: Darryl, Kentucky Air
Leah Barrett, four-and-a-half- Guardsman, with his first lake trout!
years-old with her recent catch!

Jackson
Bratton, 6,
Joe Harper of Imlay City had a caught his
first fish,
great day of fishing on Lake
an 11-inch
Huron off the ‘Tip of the Mitt.’ bluegill, on
his second
cast from a
kayak fish-
ing Grand
Traverse Jeff Lozon of Romeo caught this beautiful
Co. 30-inch monster walleye fishing the Detroit
River in early May!

SEND US
Katrina
Richard Van Den
Fleming Boom of
YOUR from Lex-
ington.
Royal Oak
took her
Afternoon
TROPHY hunt on
May 14th.
first tom
off her
grand-
PHOTOS
A couple firsts: Lucas Chriss, 7, took his 8 1/4 inch
first gobbler with his new 20 gauge Moss- beard with father’s
berg on the last hour of the last day of the 7/8 inch farm in
season in Lapeer Co. And Jack Ellerbrock, 8, email:
wnw@pageone-inc.com spurs. Munger.
took his first deer with a crossbow last fall.
78 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
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 TRAIL CAM/OUTDOOR PHOTOS
Join us in sharing interesting and sometimes rare
trail cam and/or outdoor photos with our readers.
Send your photos to: wnw@pageone-inc.com

Lauren Trainor’s trail cam caught this unusu-

ally marked coyote with white-socked paws and
white band around its neck, almost dog-like. And Joe Misiak, Macomb Co., backyard trail cam never disappoints him in the springtime; a
below an unexpected bear visitor next to their couple fawns and two hens with nine poults.
cabin bedroom window in Oscoda County.

An extremely unique visitor to the

Saugatuck State Beach. The pictures
and video were taken by 13-year-old
Larry Piotrowski Aubrey Papke.
trail cam with
a couple young
Oakland Co.
Curt and Deb Mastos had a couple of visitors to bucks
their property in Hessel!

Kraig Staples
has bobcats
and bears Tom Spillane trail cam has lots of
regularly on This young jake was photo- nice fawn photos at his cabin near
his trail cam in graphed while watching itself! St. Helen.
Millersburg.
Kayla Koresky
has been busy
taking some
terrific photos
with her Can-
non T7. Left:
An adult bald
eagle and her
baby taken
near Sanford
Lake. A doe
and buck taken
in Macomb Co.
80 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 81
 The Style C, William
Shakespeare Jr.’s First Reel
E
very year or two I
find something ex-
traordinary, a piece
of Michigan’s fishing
history hidden away in
someone’s attic or in
an old tackle box. This time it was
a remarkable fishing reel that good
friend, Don Stone, brought me to
see and photograph. It was a Style
C level wind casting reel, William
Shakespeare Jr.’s first fishing reel.
Don had recently purchased the reel
in Kalamazoo where it had been
originally manufactured over one
hundred years ago, most likely in
either 1901 or 1902. It was in decent
condition considering its
age, and it retained much of
its original finish, a black
oxidized silver plating.
William Shakespeare
Jr. was born on September
21, 1869 in Kalamazoo.
He worked in a dry goods
store after high school,
and at the age of nineteen
went to work
for George Sporting Collectibles
F. Green, the
inventor of the By Terry McBurney
electric street
car, electric drill bit, and a pneumat-
ic photo shutter. Within a year, he
formed a successful partnership with
Garrett Low and founded the Ka-
lamazoo Shutter Company in 1889
and built precision camera shutters.
Sometime between 1890 and 1893,
Shakespeare starting making bait
casting reels for his friends in his
spare time.
He was quoted in “Fine Reels,
Left: The Style C Level Wind Reel was William Shakespeare Jr.’s first production reel. It was made between 1897
and 1902 and retailed for $15. It came with a chamois-lined leather case and a rosewood handled Shakespeare
screwdriver. Right: This Style C reel’s serial number was “1100” and was probably made in 1901. Its black oxi-
dized silver-plated finish was supposed to cut down on the glare that might scare the fish. Don Stone collection
82 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
and Baits that Catch Fish,” the 1903
Shakespeare fishing catalog, as say-
ing: “I am an enthusiastic bait-cast-
er. I have learned what a good reel
is expected to accomplish. In former
years I made reels for the love of
it – not for profit. I made them as
an artist makes his pictures, as the
sculptor finishes his statue - careful-
ly and lovingly - to see how much
merit could be incorporated in them.
Sometimes, I made one as a gift to a
friend who appreciated such work.
Soon, I had a great many friends!”
He continued working on his
design for a level winding bait cast-
ing reel throughout this period, and
he applied for his “fish-line
reel” patent on May 13,
1897. Patent #591086 was
granted to him on October
5, 1897.
Up until this period,
almost all bait casting reels
were made without a level
wind mechanism. The level
wind device was supposed
to replace
the fisher-
man’s fingers
in winding
retrieved line
evenly and smoothly back onto the
spool by the moving line guide. Sev-
eral inventors had previously pat-
ented a level wind device. However,
some of them never made it into
production, while others that were
manufactured did not work well.
Shakespeare’s design did work, and
he has been credited with the inven-
tion of the level wind. His creation
consisted of a line guide with a large
A photo of 33-year-old William Shakespeare Jr. from the 1902 com-
pany catalog. Eric Jeska photo
oblong slot held between two rotat-
ing shafts cut with spiral grooves.
The line guide automatically moved
back and forth powered by these
two parallel shafts as the handle was
turned. The biggest disadvantage to
his dual worm drive was that it took
up a lot of space inside the reel’s
housing resulting in a smaller spool
that held less line. His reel was the
size of a comparable “100-yard reel”
of the day, but it only held 60-yards
of braided silk line!
The shutter company was
housed in a four-story building on
Water Street in Kalamazoo that
had once housed the Hanselman
Candy Company, and sometime
in 1897 they started producing not
only camera shutters but the Style
C Level Wind Reel, Shakespeare’s
first commercially sold fishing reel
. . . with “all parts made to a toler-
ance of less than 1/1000 of an inch.”
The original retail in 1897 was $15,
a lot of money that long ago and
certainly more than the average
worker’s weekly salary! The Style C
reel’s level wind worked, and it was
beautifully built with a black oxi-
dized silver-plated finish with nicely
turned pillars and its attractive
counterbalanced handle. The intent
in making a reel with a black metal-
lic finish was to reduce the reflective
glare off of the reel on the water so
as not to scare the fish. Apparently,
the fishermen of the day, as well as
today’s reel collectors, did not like
darker finish, and many reels were
polished up nice and shiny after re-
moving the Style C’s black oxidized
finish.
Shakespeare historian, Eric
Jeska, estimates that there were
approximately 1,500 Style C reels
produced between 1897 and 1903
when the Style C was replaced by
the Style B Level Wind Reel. The
Shakespeare 1902 catalog not only
introduced the Style C reel but three
other reels – all non-level wind
models. There were nine versions of
the “Service” Reel, a nickel-plated
brass model ranging from $3 to $5
retail; nine versions of the “Stan-
dard” Reel, a brass, oxidized silver-
plated model retailing from $5 to
$7; and nine versions of the “Pro-
fessional” Reel, made from Ger-
man silver and retailing from $10
to $12. The catalog also including
nine bamboo and lancewood fishing
rods, four lures including the highly
coveted Shakespeare Revolution,
the Worden’s Bucktail, the Evolu-
tion rubber bait and the Shakespeare
hard rubber Tournament Frog, as
well as a small selection of fishing
lines.
Shakespeare’s Style B Level
Wind Reel replaced the Style C in
1903. It also retailed for $15, and
like the earlier Style C reel came
with a chamois-lined orange leather
case plus a rosewood handled
Shakespeare screwdriver. There
were a number of significant chang-
es made between the two reels,
though the dual worm drive level
wind remained unchanged. The new
Style B reel was made of heavy
satin nickel-plated brass rather than
the black oxidized silver plating, an
attractive finish that did not tempt
the owners to polish it. The new reel
also included the improved patented
Shakespeare/Marhoff “Harmonic
Click” and “Graduated Drag,”
which helped to eliminate the dread-
ed backlash common to bait casting
reels. Both features were controlled
by “thumb wheel” adjusters as com-
pared to the older “sliders” found on
the earlier Style C reel.
Another improvement was the
change from the cumbersome level
wind cover on the Style C’s tail
plate to two small caps covering the
level wind mechanism on the Style
B’s tail plate. The smoother Style B
tail plate was more comfortable by
far in the angler’s hand.
The Style B reel remained in
production for at least sixteen years
through 1918. The reel came with
an imprinted serial number on those
made by 1912, and over 5,000 were
Top Left: The improved Style B Level Wind Reel was introduced in
1903 and was made through at least 1918. It was made of a heavy
satin-finished nickel-plated brass. Top Right: The Style B reel had
the patented Shakespeare/Marhoff “Harmonic Click” and “Gradu-
ated Drag,” which supposedly helped eliminate the dreaded back-
lash. Both features were controlled by “thumb wheel” adjusters
instead of the older “sliders.” Tony Myers collection Bottom Right:
The extremely rare Style A Level Wind Reel was introduced in 1904.
It was the same basic reel as the Style B except that it was made of
German Silver. Eric Jeska collection
except that it was made from Ger- them. Perhaps his original “Style A
man silver instead of heavy satin and B” reels were hand-made mod-
nickel-plated brass. None of them els that he made for his friends, so
apparently were serialized, though he named his first production reel, at antiquefishing@comcast.net with
so few of them were made that this the “Style C.” Another possible rea- your questions. Photographs are im-
is not definitive. Earlier versions son to use the “Style C” designation portant, so please send them. They
came with side plates that simply was a marketing gimmick to give help me with identification and give
stated “Shakespeare” and “Level his first production reel the impres- me an idea of the condition of the
Winding Reel, No 3 - Style – A”. sion of success. Eric Jeska, Shake- item.n
Later versions came with similar speare historian, suggests several
wording, as well as a good-looking other possibilities: “that there prob-
engraving of a jumping bass. The
Style A reel retailed for an astonish-
ably were two unsuccessful proto-
types (A and B) prior to the Style C IT’S SPORT SHOW
TIME AGAIN....
ing $35 and came with a chamois- reel. Then for marketing purposes,
lined orange leather case along with the later reels were designated as
a rosewood handled Shakespeare “B” and later “A” to emphasize to
screwdriver. Supposedly, William the angling public that the improve-
Shakespeare Jr. hand assembled ments were unique and substantial,
each of the Style A reels at his own and worthy of the price increase”.
workbench in the Shakespeare reel [Or] “Perhaps he named it “Style C”

made during this time period. No
one knows how many more were
produced after Shakespeare stopped
serializing the Style B reels.
Shakespeare’s Style A Level
Wind Reel was introduced in 1904,
and it truly is the “Holy Grail” of
all Shakespeare reels today. It was
simply the same reel as the Style B
This rare photo shows the Shakespeare reel assembly room in 1907 or
early 1908. William Shakespeare’s bench is in the foreground, and he
probably stepped away from his bench to take the photo. Eric Jeska photo
assembly department!
Reel collectors have been
puzzled why William Shakespeare
Jr. first introduced the Style C reel
in 1897, the Style B reel in 1903 and
finally the Style A reel in 1904 in-
stead of the other way around. Many
explanations have been offered over
the years, and here are a few of
. . . in an attempt to disguise the fact
that his level wind reel would only
hold 60 yards of line instead of the
standard 100 yards that other non-
level reels of that size could hold.
Or maybe he named the “Style C”
after his young bride, Cora.” I have
given this quite a bit of thought why
Shakespeare introduced his level
wind reels in reverse order and have
come up with nothing new . . . so I
leave my readers to choose the best
explanation!
I would like to thank Eric
Jeska, Shakespeare historian, for
his help in writing this article and
acknowledge his many excellent
articles on Shakespeare, especially
“Shakespeare Style – A Closer Look
at the Changes,” published in the
November 2018 issue of The Reel
News, the bimonthly magazine
of O.R.C.A. (Old Reel Collectors
Association). I would also like to
acknowledge Steve Vernon’s book,
Antique Fishing Reels, especially
his chapter on level wind reels. I
would also like to thank Don Stone
and Tony Myers for allowing me to
photograph their Shakespeare reels.
Feel free to contact the author
OUTDOOR
WEEKEND
September 6-8
Eastern Michigan State
Fairgrounds, Imlay City
Terry McBurney, Woods-N-Water
News staff writer and fishing tack-
le historian, will be at the Woods-
N-Water News Outdoor Weekend
held at the Eastern Michigan
Fairgrounds in Imlay City, Septem-
ber 6-8. He will be displaying some
of his “Made in Michigan” collec-
tion of old fishing tackle, talking
to readers, as well as offering free
appraisals. Terry will be located in
the west end of the Blue Building.
Bring in your old fishing tackle -
reels, rods, lures and accessories
to see if there is a treasure hidden
away in your old tackle box.
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 83
 ROLL
Rod back to between 1:00 to 2:00 star t position
This will form D-Loop

Bring rod forward slowly & smoothly until 12:00 position

CAST
Without hesitation upon reaching 12:00
Apply power after 12:00 with a smooth
acceleration to a crisp stop
D-Loop Stopping the rod between 11:00 to 10:00 position
Pin fly to ground

It can save a day Author demonstrating the star t position of the Roll Cast
of fly-fishing!
William T. Mangan Figure 1 -- Star t position of the roll cast. Note: 1:00 to 2:00 rod position to form D-Loop, no slack in

A
line, three finger width distance between rod butt, wrist and thumb. Reel pointed towards target.
s a (FFI) Fly-fishers subsurface flies and a sinking fly day just using a roll cast. Or in those slowly when forming the D-loop.
International Certified line, how do you get your fly and spots where you find you have a If you pull the line back too fast the
Fly-casting Instructor, line up through the water column to little room for a back cast you can rod tip will wiggle and end up wrap-
one of the very first the top of the water, which is needed make a roll cast pickup, then make ping the line around the rod tip.
casts I teach a student to make a back cast? No problem, your back cast. Along with a D-loop you need a
is the roll cast. It is a with a roll cast! This cast will lift As a guide I do not get to fish small portion of the front of the line
very versatile cast that quite often the end of the line and fly higher to as often as would I like, because to remain on the water. Think of the
can save a day of fly-fishing, for the surface. You may need to make usually I’m taking others out to fish. water as glue. You need some of the
many reasons. Anyone who fly- more than one roll cast to get it all One thing I do get to do a lot of is line to stick on the water, which also
fishes has had many, if not all these up to the surface, at which time it get clients flies unsnagged! Since I causes resistance against the rod,
situations arise while fishing. will be easy to make the back cast. do not charge clients for flies, the also helping it to load.
You’re on your favorite stretch How about those times, you roll cast has saved me money. There You must not cross your line;
of river, with a strong wind com- decide to head to your secret small are several ways to get a fly unstuck, this is called crossing the railroad
ing from over your back, making it narrow brookie stream, with its and roll cast is a very important tool track. Imagine a train traveling away
difficult to make a good back cast. cooler water temps and tight brushy in my arsenal for retrieving stuck from you in the direction you are
With the roll cast there is no need banks and its sporadic overhang- flies. In fact my record to date is 19 going to cast. Think of the fly line
for back cast, you simply roll the ing tree branches, not allowing any flies unsnagged in a row. on the water as the right train track,
cast into the forward cast. leeway for a back cast. No worries, The next time you have a fly the left train track is where you are
When fly-fishing with big heavy you can fish those tight streams all stuck on an object, gingerly pull going to cast the fly line. As a right
your line back to form a D-loop, handed caster I must always make
then roll cast your line past the stuck my roll cast to the left of the line
BOOKS/DVDS BY RICHARD P. SMITH fly. More often than not, the fly will that is on the water. If I cast to the
release, due to the loop of line being right of the line on the water I will
cast past the fly. This pulls the fly tangle. The only way a right handed
Great Michigan Deer Tales in the opposite direction that it was
stuck.
caster can cast to the right of the line
on the water, is if they make an off
MORE BIG BUCK STORIES One of the first rules of fly-cast- the opposite shoulder roll cast.
ing is that you can’t make a good The loop formed by the roll cast
cast until you make the fly move. If should be elliptical and narrow,
you make the fly move, that means usually no higher than head height
Tracking Wounded Deer the fly line has no slack between the
fly and your line hand, which means
(figure 2). An elliptical tight nar-
row loop will be more accurate, cast
Lots of NEW INFORMATION and ALL COLOR PHOTOS that the fly rod is now loaded, or in farther and be more wind resistant,
Quantity Cost simple terms the rod is bent. When than a big circular loop.
____ *NEW* Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 7 ($16.50) _______ a loaded (bent) rod is pulled against The majority of the fly-casting
____ Tracking Wounded Deer - 3rd Edition ($25) _______ a tight line, on either a forward or lessons I teach are at my home.
____ Black Bear Hunting - 2nd Edition ($40.00) _______ back cast, the bent fly rod has stored Although I do have a pond on my
____ Walking with Whitetails DVD ($24.00) _______ energy. At the end of the cast the rod property, and I do teach a few casts
____ Deer Hunting - 4th Edition ($35.00) _______
____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 6 ($16.50) _______ is stopped, causing the rod to unload on the water, most casts are easier
____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 5 ($16.50) _______ (straighten), releasing that stored taught on the grass. This includes
____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 4 ($16.50) _______ energy. This causes the fly line to the roll cast.
____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 3 ($16.50) _______ continue in the direction of the cast, On the grass, to simulate the
____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 2 ($16.50) _______
____ Great Michigan Deer Tales - Book 1 ($15.50) _______ forming a loop that travels over the sticky effect of the water, pin the
____ Deer Tales Set - 2/$28; 3/$40; 4/$50; 5/$60; 6/$72; 7/$82 _______ rod tip. end of the fly to the ground. For
Please specify which books sent to the same address.
There are several things that are example: You can wrap the fly
____ Stand Hunting for Whitetails ($19.00) _______
____ Understanding Michigan Black Bear - 2nd Edition ($20.00) _______ a must in making a good roll cast. and leader around a screwdriver
SEND FOR YOUR ____ Animal Tracks & Signs of N.A. ($23) _______ You must have what it is called a and push the screwdriver into the
AUTOGRAPHED COPIES TODAY. ____ TOTAL _______ D-loop (figure #1). The D-loop is ground. If you do not secure the fly
Name essential because you need some to the ground, the line sliding along
weight of line behind your rod, the grass will not offer enough resis-
Address which helps load the rod during tance, to help load the rod making
City State Zip the cast. It is nearly impossible to it very difficult to practice good roll
Phone # execute a proper roll cast without a casts.
Please remit by MasterCard, Visa, Check or Money Order. good D-loop! Also, practicing the roll cast on
Circle card type: The roll cast is a great way to the grass makes it easier to remove
MC/Visa # remove slack. When you pull the all the slack out of the line before
Expiration Date Signature line back to form a D-loop, the slack executing the cast. You simply
Make checks payable to: SMITH PUBLICATIONS is removed and you are now causing reach the fly rod back behind you,
814 Clark St. • Marquette, MI 49855 the fly to move. This is important to which pulls the line taut against the
www.RichardPSmith.com remember, you must pull line back screwdriver, removing all the slack.
84 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS

You then return the rod to the start-
ing position, which will result in a
sufficient D-loop formed behind the
rod (Figure 1).
Although, with the fly being
pinned down, you will not be able
to make the line roll out completely
straight, you will be able to prac-
tice making good loops. If you are
casting elliptical narrow, head high,
or lower loops, rest assured the line
would have rolled out nicely, had it
not been pinned down.
Also note, when casting you
should always have a fly tied to the
end of your system. When practicing
cut the hook barb off or better yet do
what I do, tie on a piece of poly yarn
for a fly. It’s all about safety!
Fly-casting students are all
individuals, and not all students
learn the same way. That’s why it is
important, as a FFI Certified Fly-
casting Instructor, to know several
different methods of teaching a
particular cast. You want about three-finger width
There are several methods of
teaching the roll cast. With all the
methods you will end up getting to
a starting position for the forward
cast, with a good D-loop, and no
slack in the line. The starting posi-
tion is when the D-loop is formed,
and the caster is at the position
where the execution of the forward
cast begins. The starting position
can vary, from the rod tip more ver-
tical, or even off shoulder, to the tip
out to the side. The casters starting
hand position can vary also.
One method I use to teach the
roll cast is to use the analogy of a
clock face, with midnight (12:00)
position indicating the fly rod
straight up above the caster’s head.
As a right handed caster, when
looking at your right hand, when
you bring the rod out back behind
the shoulder or outward away from
your body, it will be at the (1:00,
2:00 etc.) position. In front of the
shoulder would be the (11:00, 10:00
etc.) position. The clock face, for
left handed casters would be just the
opposite.
1) Start with your rod tip down,
it’s important to start any type of
cast with the rod tip low. The lower
your rod tip is towards the water or
ground, the less slack you will start
off within your system. If you start
with the tip high, the belly of the
line between the rod tip and where
the line meets the water is all slack.
The rod will not load when there is
slack in the system.
2) Tilt the rod tip outward to
the side, to about the 1:00 to 2:00
position, before you start and as you
lift the rod up and back behind your
shoulder.
3) Lift the rod slowly until your
rod hand is anywhere between
shoulder and ear level. As stated
On forward cast
stop rod between 11:00 to 10:00
Apply power
after
midnight
Author demonstrating the roll cast
Figure 2 -- Forward cast of the roll cast. Note application of power after midnight, rod stop between
11:00 to 10:00, head high elliptical loop, screwdriver to pin down fly.
earlier, if you lift the line too fast,
the rod tip will wiggle, and the line
will tangle around the rod.
4) Starting position. Once you
have your rod hand between shoul-
der and ear level, you now check for
all the following: You have a good
D-loop. Point your rod hand thumb
and reel in the direction of the cast,
which will help with your accuracy.
distance between your wrist and rod
butt (handle), this is a perfect wrist
to rod butt angle to start your cast.
Midnight being straight up, make
sure to recheck that your fly rod tip
is pointed outward, from your body,
to approximately 1:00 and leaning
backward over your shoulder to
approximately 1:00. With the rod
tip outward to 1:00 to 2:00, you
eliminate the possibility of running
the line into your rod during the
execution of the cast. If the rod is
too vertical the line will hit the rod.
Having the rod back to about the
1:00 to 2:00 position helps to create
the D-loop behind you (Figure 1).
5) Apply acceleration/power af-
ter midnight. During the entire for-
ward movement of the fly rod, keep
the rod tip angled outward away
from your body at approximately
the 1:00 position. Now, from the
over the back 1:00 to 2:00 position,
start moving the fly rod forward
slowly without accelerating faster,
to the midnight position. Once the
rod tip reaches the midnight posi-
tion without hesitation start applying
the acceleration/power of the cast.
When making the power phase of
the cast you move the fly rod in a
smooth consistently faster accelera-
tion, until you reach the crisp stop
point of the cast.
Power after midnight, seems to
be one of the hardest concepts for
students to understand. One thing
to keep in mind, as with any type of
cast, is that the line follows or mim-
ics what the rod tip does. With this
in mind, if you start applying power
before midnight, the fly rod tip will
go in an upward direction before it
starts going in a downward direction
or trajectory. This will then result in
a larger more circular loop.
The key thing to remember here
Head height
elliptical loop
is that from the start of the applica-
tion of power the rod tip must travel,
to some degree, in downward trajec-
tory (figure 2).
6) Make a crisp stop of the fly
rod. The crisper the stop, the tighter
and narrower the loop will be. Make
the rod stop approximately at the
11:00 to 10:00 position. This will
vary depending on the length of line
you’re casting and loop shape you
desire (figure 2). Bill Mangan is the owner/opera-
When the rod is stopped at the
11:00 to 10:00 position, the rod tip
will flex forward, then flex back and
straighten back to the 11:00 to 10:00
position, respectively. The crisper
Tom Carney
Among the Aspens
To purchase: $34.95 (Michigan residents, please add $2.10 sales tax) plus
$6.35 postage/handling
Send check or money order to: Partridge Pointe Press, 2470 Strawberry
Farm St. NE, Belmont, Michigan 49306.
Purchase online at www.tomcarneywriter.com
Pin fly to ground
the stop, the less the rod tip travels
after the stop. Crisper the stop, the
tighter and narrower the loop.
7) After the rod stop, lower the
rod tip to the water, at the same pace
as the line is falling.
The roll cast has saved my day
of fly-fishing many times, learn to
make a good roll cast, and it will for
you too.
Tight Lines!
tor of Mangan’s Cast a Fly, a (FFI)
Certified Fly-casting Instructor and
Michigan DNR Certified Fly-fishing
Guide, his website: www.mangans-
castafly.comn
Award-winning nature and outdoor
writer Thomas Carney returns to
form in his latest collection of
essays, Among the Aspens: Stolen
Moments in Secret Coverts.
As with his previous collections,
Sun-Drenched Days, Two-Blanket
Nights; and Bird Dogs and Betty
Cakes, Tom employs a variety of
perspectives and presentations
as his writing glides effortlessly
across the lines that delineate
serious writing, humor, nostalgia,
analysis, description and storytelling.
Different this time around: Instead
of moving from activity to activity
with the progressing seasons as he
did in his first two books of essays,
in Among the Aspens Tom delivers
the goods through a single form
of outdoor recreation: upland bird
hunting.
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 85
 Conservation officer pulls hypothermic
woman from Pere Marquette River
M
ichigan Department of Nat-
ural Resources Conserva-
tion Officer Kyle Publiski
was the first emergency
responder on the scene recently, as-
sisting a 30-year-old woman whose
kayak overturned while paddling the
Pere Marquette River in Lake County,
near the east border of Mason County.
The woman, showing signs of hypo-
thermia, had been stuck in the cold
water for roughly 45 minutes.
Receiving the initial dispatch
call Saturday at 2:27 p.m., Publiski
was told that a stranded kayaker had
overturned in the river and stated that
she could not swim. The woman was
kayaking with a friend, who was able
to make it to shore.
“With the river’s water level be-
ing very high, swift currents and cold
water temperatures made the situation
more difficult,” said Publiski.
When Publiski arrived, he saw
the woman clinging to a tree that had
fallen into the river.
“She kept saying that she
couldn’t swim and that she didn’t
have a life jacket,” Publiski said. “She
also said that she could not feel her
hands or feet.”
Publiski created a lifeline by toss-
CBM’s Official 11th edition
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www.michiganbiggamerecords.com
OR MAIL CHECK PAYABLE TO:
WILLOUGHBY PRESS
P.O. Box 306, Owosso, MI 48867
Call with questions 989-723-6850
86 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
ing a throw bag to the woman and
instructing her to wrap the rope under
her arms and around her torso.
A throw bag is a rescue device
consisting of a bag with a rope inside
of it. The rope extends out of the bag
while one person holds onto one end
of the rope and is pulled by a person
from the opposite side.
Once the woman was able to grab
the rope, Publiski threw her a life
jacket, but she was able to get only
one arm through it. During this time,
U.S. Forest Service Law Enforce-
ment Officer Doug Beringer and Lake
County Sheriff’s Department Sgt.
Brad Nixon and Deputy Craig Mayo
arrived.
As the officers used the rope to
pull the woman toward shore, she
released her grip on the tree she had
been holding onto. When the woman
let go of the tree, the strong cur-
rent pulled her downstream and she
became entangled on a different log.
Physically exhausted from being in
the cold water for almost 45 minutes,
the woman did not have the strength
to climb over the log to allow the of-
ficers to continue pulling her toward
them.
CO Publiski jumped in the fast-
includes
55
shipping
& taxes
flowing water and was able to get
the woman unstuck from the log and
safely move her to shore.
“From the time that I arrived at
the river to the time that we were able
to get the woman safely to shore, it
was about six to seven minutes total,”
Publiski said.
Observing that the woman
displayed extreme signs of hypo-
thermia and was unable to walk, the
first responders put the woman in an
emergency Stokes basket and carried
her about a quarter-mile, up a 5-foot
embankment, where a Life EMS Am-
bulance was waiting. The woman was
transported to Ludington Hospital to
be treated for hypothermia.
“Conservation Officer Kyle Pub-
liski made a quick decision to enter
the river to help this woman, risking
his own life to save her,” said Chief
Gary Hagler, DNR Law Enforcement
Division. “Conservation officers re-
ceive extensive water training and are
prepared to respond to situations like
this. I’m glad that Publiski and the
other law enforcement agencies were
able to help in what could have been a
tragic situation.”
Publiski, a Michigan DNR con-
servation officer since 2004, patrols
What’s In Your
?
Ol d Tac k l e B ox ??
?
??
Terry
McBurney,
Woods-n-Water
News staff writer
and fishing
tackle historian,
will be setting up
his antique fishing
tackle display at
the Woods-N-Water
News Outdoor
Weekend held at the
Eastern Michigan
State Fairgrounds in
Imlay City, September
6-8. With a lifetime of
experience in the fishing
industry and author of
many magazine articles
on antique tackle, he will be
answering questions and offering
free appraisals at the show.
COME IN AND MEET TERRY MCBURNEY
WEST END OF THE BLUE BUILDING AT THE
33RD ANNUAL WOODS-N-WATER NEWS
OUTDOOR WEEKEND
SEPTEMBER 6TH-7TH-8TH, 2019
Eastern Michigan State Fairgrounds in Imlay City • www.OutdoorWeekend.net
MDNR Conser vation Officer
Kyle Publiski
Mason County.
Lake County Sheriff’s Depart-
ment, Carr Fire Department, Life
EMS Ambulance and U.S. Forest Ser-
vice personnel assisted in the effort.
The DNR issued a press release
on Wednesday about high water lev-
els, urging boaters and water enthusi-
asts to use caution when on the water.
Michigan conservation officers
are fully commissioned state peace
officers who provide natural resources
protection, ensure recreational safety
and protect citizens by providing
general law enforcement duties and
lifesaving operations in the communi-
ties they serve. Learn more at Michi-
gan.gov/ConservationOfficers.n
Joining him
will be Dick
VanRaalte
of Starboard
Marine
Restorations,
Grand Haven,
Michigan who
will exhibit part
of his collection of
vintage outboard
motors. With
over 25 years of
experience restoring
old outboards, as well
as wood and fiberglass
boats, VanRaalte will
also be answering
questions and offering
free appraisals. They are also
interested in buying old sporting
collectibles for their collections.
 Woods-N-Water News Classified Section
WANTED FISHING HUNTING HUNTING HUNTING HUNTING
TIMBER: Buying all types of tim- CANADA FISHING: WESTERN KENTUCKY BIG ROOSTER RANCH - ALBERTS BEAR GUIDE
ber, 5 acres or more, top price paid. Want to go fishing? Come to BUCKS: Hunt for really big bucks great pheasant hunting, 15 SERVICE: Bergland and Baraga GUIDED U.P. BEAR
Cash in advance. Improve wildlife Northern Walleye Lodge for on both sides of the Kentucky different farms! Excellent cover. Units. Federal license. 27 years HUNTS OVER BAIT.
habitat. Patco Forest Products, Great Walleye, Small Mouth, Tennessee border. Every year we Your dogs or ours. Field hunt or experience. Cell 906-231-9136 Amasa, Gwinn and Baraga
989-539-7588 after 6 p.m. W-11- Northern, Jumbo Perch, Lake have farms that never get hunted European style. Meals, lodg- Home 906-827-3731. H-6-3 units. With great results.
12/18 Trout for 6 nights $450 U.S. per because we have so many thou- ing, dog training. Half, full or .............................................. Over 20 years experience.
.............................................. person with 4 or more. Includes sands of acres. These farms are multi-day hunts. Open 7 days Call Rick at 231-464-1077
remote lake front cabin with some of the best hunting anywhere, a week, now through April DEER HUNTING or 231-690-3164.
come visit us before deer season
FOR SALE own dock, 2 people per boat,
15hp electric start Yamaha and see for yourself. We now offer
30th. Any size group. Gift cer-
tificates available. Since 1986.
BALDWIN/GRANT
MICHIGAN. Rifle season
www.mountainridgeoutfitters.
com H-7-3
motors, fish finders and swivel five day hunts with a two buck limit. roosterranch.com 989-658- deer hunting. 80 acres private
POND SUPPLIES: Live game- Prices start at $900. Text or call for
fish for stocking. Large selection of seats. Upgrade boats available. 2332. H-11-TFN property butts up to state land.
Black bear hunts available. information. 270-348-4281. H-8-3 Call 239-470-0113. H-8-2
lake, pond and watergarden sup- ..............................................
plies. Free catalog! Stoney Creek, 3.5 hours North of Sault Ste. UP BEAR & DEER
Marie. See web site for specials 2019 MICHIGAN BLACK TWO BUCK HUNTING HUNTS: Manistique area, all
Inc., Grant, MI (800) 448-3873, BEAR HUNTS. Baraga unit. GONZO BEAR CAMP - Bear
www.stoneycreekequip.com FS-4-7 and more info . . . (ALSO SMALL GAME) seasons, great success. Lodg-
www.northernwalleyelodge.com Contact Chris at 734-765-9325 or HUNTING CLUB Specialist - We had 80% success. ing available. Also UTV guided
email: fishingtrips@outlookcom chris@keweenawbearhunts.com. MEMBERSHIPS. WEST Baraga, Gwen and Amasa Units - rides. Starts July. 231-620-
Classifieds Toll free 1-877-434-2440 Visit www.keweenawbearhunts. BRANCH - HALE AREA. One Modular hunts start at $995. 7 days 0398. H-7-3
work! F-12/17TFN com for more information. H-8-2 of N.E. Michigan’s finer hunting lodging included. Write for more
(810) 724-0254 .............................................. areas. Quality hunting, facilities, information on how to apply for bear
Monday- BEAR HUNTS NEWBERRY and cammaraderie. Non profit club permits on May 1st - 2730 S. Dort
UNIT. Over bait, bow and rifle
Friday
9am-5pm Subscribe welcome. $950 per hunt, 100% suc-
offers maximum value that defies
comparison. Stag $1,175 per year.
Hwy., Flint, MI 48507 or call Dale at
(810) 814-8936 days 9-4 or eve- BAIT
or try our Today! cess. Call Jim at 989-600-8672.
H-8-1
See dynamicra.com. Call Dan 989-
893-5819. H-7-3
nings John at (989) 257-2725 for
more information www.gonzo- BAIT & FEED: Sweet Cherries
website
woods-n-waternews.com (810) 724-0254 .............................................. .............................................. bearcamp.com.
Facebook. H-4-5
Like us on with syrup in barrels, cherry syrup
in barrel or 250 gal. tote. Cherries
.............................................. blended with wheat midds, a moist
NORTH FORK CUR-
To reach an immense outdoor market use the . . . feed or bait. Also a limited amount
RAN, MI Gun and Bow 1,000
of dry ground cereal with granola
Woods-N-Water News Classified acres. Best deer and bear
hunting in Michigan! Modern
BEAR HUNTS: Baraga
unit. Be our guest at AA Lodge.
bars. Call/Text for more info. 616-
862-0122. B-7-3
Classified ad rates: $30 for the first 20 words bunk house that holds 8 hunt- All inclusive 5 day hunt. 1st
..............................................
Every word over 20 is .25¢ per word -- Box your classified, $5 additional charge ers, full kitchen, 2 full baths, hunt $1,500. Call Roy at 810-
This effective advertising is simple to do, place your ad by . . . heat, air, large TV and rec 691-3373. H-8-1
• Calling 810-724-0254 Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm
• Email your ad to wnw@pageone-inc.com
room. Deer hunting includes
big, home cooked meal every
HUNTING LEASE
• Faxing your ad 810-724-8552 night. Good deer blinds with RAY’S U.P. HUNTING – Over 40 ACRES FOR LEASE in
• Complete your Classified online at www.woods-n-waternews.com 25 years experience guiding for
food plots for all hunters. $950 Manistee County by Kaleva. 3 box
• Mailing your ad to Woods-N-Water News, P.O. Box 278, Imlay City, MI 48444
per hunter/week for deer. Call deer and bear. Baited stands in blinds, trails and alleys cut, good
Classifieds MUST be paid in advance of publishing; MasterCard, Visa accepted. Make for bear hunting with baited Amasa, Baraga, and Bergland deer hunting. $900 for the whole
check/money orders payable to Woods-N-Water News. Classified ads can not be lines. $2,000.00 Book early, will Units. Lodging Available. Call Ray deer season. 231-883-9832. L-8-1
billed and once a classified is processed no refunds can be made. Limit of 75 words. at 906-265-9420 or cell 906-284-
sell! Call Rich at 734-341-7397. ..............................................
All classifieds posted to our website FREE! H-5-5 2216. Licensed and Insured. H-1-
Use one of these useful classified categories... 12/19
FOR LEASE: 150 acres
..............................................
A = Archery FP = Food Plots HW = Help Wanted SM = Snowmobiles
TROPHY WHITETAIL DEER on Coldwater River, Isabella
ATV = ATVs FW = Firewood M = Miscellanous T = Taxidermy
B = Boats G = Guns RE = Real Estate TK = Trucks HUNTS AVAILABLE IN County. Excellent deer hunting,
ATTENTION U.P. BEAR 4 miles North of Weidman, MI
D = Dogs H = Hunting RR = Resorts/Rent TR = Trailers
F = Fishing HL = Hunting Leases RVC = RV’s/Campers W = Wanted
SOUTH CENTRAL OHIO. HUNTERS: Top of the Line on Battle Rd. $4,000 yearly.
We have over 8,000 private acres, Guide Service offers excellent
F = Free Call 517-881-0128. L-8-1
strictly managed for world class hunting opportunity for black
SEPTEMBER 2019 CLASSIFIED DEADLINE AUGUST 5, 2019 deer! There are limited openings bear hunters in Newberry man-
available to join this elite group of agement area. Fully licensed
CLIP AND MAIL
deer hunters in one of the best guide offers unlimited day hunt-
Woods-N-Water News Classified Advertising areas of the Mid-West. Tree stands
are in place and ready to hunt, tons
ing. Lodging available. High REAL ESTATE
(Please print clearly. We are not responsible for unreadable orders.) success rate. For information
Make sure phone number is included in your ad! of trail camera pictures and care- or references call Bruce at 906- BULL DOZER, JOHN
fully managed farms. Contact 477-6983 or 616-566-0183. DEERE 450 B.C. 3085 hours.
NAME Heartland Hunting Consultants 810- H-7-3 Serial number: 330041, 88” 6 way
223-4587. H-7-3
ADDRESS blade with root rake, 16” pads.
$12,500. Ideal for fixing hunting
CITY                                           STATE                      ZIP 2019 MICHIGAN BEAR ELK & DEER GUIDED property roads and trails. 810-664-
HUNTS: Newberry/Gwinn. HUNTS 100% success, Northeast 8911. RE-8-1
DAYTIME PHONE NO. Just outside of Seney Wildlife MI no license needed. Plus, great ..............................................
Refuge. High success rate. fishing for bass and bluegills, cabin 3 BEDROOM/ 2 BATH, 9/10
VISA/MASTERCARD#                                                       EXP: 35 years. State and Federal with boat and motor. Text or call ACRE, ON COUNTY ROAD
licensed and experienced. 989-493-2909. H-9-12/18 135, 12 west of Newberry. TLC
CLASSIFICATION OF AD                      MONTHS TO RUN ..............................................
Guaranteed active baits. 6 needed. Great location for outdoor
nights, 5 day hunt includes NORTHERN ONTARIO enthusiasts! $54,900 ready to make

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) BEAR HUNTS
lodging and meals. Start at a deal ! 906-287-0987 for appoint-
$750. Bow and rifle deer hunts. GUARANTEED TAGS! ment. RE-8-1
(7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) Booking now for September 2019 &
$125 per day. 906-439-5242. ..............................................
www.bucksportinglodge.com. 2020 starting May 10th and May

(13) (14) (15) (16) (17) (18)
H-6-4 25th. No fall hunts this year.
Includes comfortable cabin, boat 30 WOODED ACRES/
(19) (20) $30.00 $30.25 $30.50 $30.75 CABIN AND 32X40X12
and motor, baited stands. Very
ATTENTION BEAR experienced guides. High success POLEBARN. Well/septic,
$31.00 $31.25 $31.50 $31.75 $32.00 $32.25 Hunter's paradise. Poss. Hunt
HUNTERS: Red Oak Unit Guide rate. 3 hours from the Soo.
Service. Experienced. Call Michigan References on request. $1,650 U.S. Camp. Carsonville area. RLKR,
$32.50 $32.75 $33.00 $33.25 $33.50 $33.75 Washington. Martha Niemc-
Bear-N-Elk Adventures 231-250- single hunter, including taxes and
2103. H-7-2 non-resident bear license/tag. zura, 586-255-8555. RE-7-2
$34.00 $34.25 $34.50 $34.75 $35.00 $35.25
.............................................. Cheaper rate for more than one
BERGLAND UNIT: Guided hunter. $650 deposit required. Call
More Classifieds
$35.50 $35.75 $36.00 $36.25 $36.50 $36.75
bear hunts over bait. State and 705-869-3272. www.texasandsons.
Enclosed is $                                               for Federal licensed bear guide. Call com H-8-12/18
words to run                     months. BOX MY CLASSIFIED - $5 Extra Rich 715-663-0459 or upbearhunt. .............................................. Next Page
com H-6-3
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 87
 Woods-N-Water News Classified Section
REAL ESTATE
BEAUTIFUL 3BR/2BA
HOME situated on 147’ of East
Lake in Luce County. Huge detach-
able garage. Once in a lifetime
opportunity! Must be seen, make
your appointment! Turn key priced
at $269,900. 906-287-0987. RE-8-
1 RE-8-1
..............................................
77 ACRES. 70 acres mostly
hardwoods. The investment that will
pay you back. Call Debb. The Home
Office Realty 209 W Main St
Owosso. Cell 989-295-2540.
RE-8-1
..............................................
300 ACRE HUNTING CAMP.
Eastern U.P. Call Jeff. 989-494-
8929. RE-8-1
..............................................
GREAT BUILDING SITE ON
THIS 18.99 ACRE PARCEL
IN HILLSDALE CTY. Located
just outside of Pittsford. Take a look
at this property. Priced to sell below
$3,500 per acre. $64,900. Call Jim
at Faust Real Estate, LLC 517-902-
6655. RE-8-1
..............................................
40 ACRES NICELY WOOD-
ED PARCEL IN GOOD
DEER COUNTRY with all oil,
gas, and mineral rights included.
$75,000. Call for more details. Call
Koske Realty Co. 989-732-1012
Gaylord, MI RE-8-1
..............................................
 
36 Acres of
Vacant Hunting Property
Sears, MI
AUGUST 13
ONLINE ONLY AUCTION
Starting bid of $25k
231-347-1179
88 AUGUST 2018 WNW NEWS
REAL ESTATE
10 ACRES WOODED PAR-
CEL with hardwood trees and lake
access. Also has a driveway. Good
deer country. Ideal for camping or
your new home. $26,500. Land
Contract terms. Call Koske Realty
Co. 989-732-1012 Gaylord, MI
..............................................
LAKEFRONT WITH A close to a swamp and creek. All of
CAMPER AND 12’ X 16’
GARAGE WITH ELECTRIC
DOOR OPENER. Driveway
and gate on 2.69 acres. Ideal place
for camping. $32,500. Call Koske
Realty Co. 989-732-1012 Gaylord,
MI RE-8-1
..............................................
10 ACRES BEAUTIFULLY
WOODED with 1885 acres of
state land across the road.
Excellent deer country. Ideal place
for camping. $23,900. Land
Contract terms. Call Koske Realty
Co. 989-732-1012 Gaylord, MI
RE-8-1
..............................................
LUCE COUNTY: 20 acres of
U.P. hunting land with many nice
cabin sites. Deer, bear, grouse and
more. Excellent snowmobiling and
ATV area. Property has good sea-
sonal access and borders State
Land $22,900 231-689-2067
RE-8-2
..............................................
PAGES 88 - 97
REAL ESTATE
18.52 WOODED ACRES
LOTS OF DEER, TURKEY
AND OTHER WILDLIFE.
Ideal hunting and camping. Terrain
is sloping to very steep. Excellent
filtered valley views. Driveway and
cleaned building site already
installed along with an additional
cleared site at the bottom of the hill,
this on a county black top road with
power and phone along the road.
$59,900, $2,000 down, $700/mo,
11% land contract.
www.northernlandco.com
Northern Land Company 231-258-
5100 Kalkaska, MI. RE-8-2
..............................................
CAMPGROUNDS FOR
SALE One in the U.P. with Great
Lake frontage $485K. One in North
Central Michigan $700K. Briggs
Realty www.briggsrealtyonline.com
616-942-1071. RE-8-1
..............................................
UNBELIEVABLE PRIME
HUNTING/FISHING PAR-
CEL CLOSE TO THE CITY.
154 acre haven in St. Clair County
with Mill Creek traversing through
property. 2 homes, numerous large
updated pole barns. Teeming with
deer, turkey and fish. 50 acres till-
able for extra income. $695,000 for
all. Call Glen at Professional Real
Estate Group, Ltd., 877-362-7930
RE-7-3
7 Acres of Industrial/
Commercial Property
West Branch, MI
AUGUST 15
ONLINE ONLY AUCTION
Starting bid of $59k
8 Acres, Home and Buildings
Boyne City, MI
AUGUST 29 • 4PM LIVE AUCTION
Starting bid of $25k
REAL ESTATE
A HUNTER’S PARADISE:
Well maintained, one owner, cus-
tom home sitting on 77.5 Acres of
wooded hunting acreage. The home
has an open floor plan, vaulted ceil-
ings, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, bonus
room, heated workshop & much
more. Finish features include
Australian Cypress floors, hickory
cabinets, generator & pellet stove.
This home is a MUST SEE! https://
www.realestateone.com/home-for-
sale/15239_13_Mile_Road-Battle_
Creek-MI-49014/19004541_
MISWMRIC RE-7-2
..............................................
160 WOODED ACRES WITH
900’ FURNISHED CABIN IN
IOSCO COUNTY NEAR
EAST TAWAS. Cabin has fur-
nace and wood stove with well
water, cell phone and internet ser-
vice available. Prime hunting, 2
ponds with Kunzy Creek running
through the back of the property.
Lots of deer and other wildlife
including partridge, coyote, bobcat,
coon and more. Also listed on Zillow
with many photos. Asking $289,000.
989-225-0362. RE-6-3
..............................................
Classifieds Work!
(810) 724-0254
DOGS DOGS
BIRD DOG TRAINING BY
RYMAN ENGLISH SET-
THE BEST! David Grubb has re-
TERS whelped 6/16/19. Both
tired from major field trials and is now
parents OFA hips and elbows
concentrating on training hunting
cert. good/normal. Both par-
dogs for the foot hunter. Now work-
ents pointing grouse 1st sea-
ing on wild birds in the Thumb, only
son. These are close work-
$500 per month and that includes
ing grouse dogs of excellent
everything. We train Labs too. David
pedigree. Pics and pedigrees
Grubb 248-860-1009. D-8-2
available upon request. $1,000
..............................................
Mikado, MI (989) 335-3247.
BRITISH LABRADOR PUP-
D-8-2
PIES! Looking for your next hunt-
ing companion? We offer pups from
some of the best lines in the UK,
Ireland and Austria. Call Songdog
Kennel for more information. (989) Subscribe Today!
858-1846. D-8-2
woods-n-waternews.com
..............................................
FOR SALE! GERMAN WIRED
HAIR PUPS, Hunting Blood Lines.
Parents are on the Premises. Located LLEWELLIN ENGLISH
in Valparaiso, IN Call Terry Owens SETTER PUPS F.D.S.B
(219) 531-1989. D-8-1 Registered. We are proud to
announce our Patch/Danny
GERMAN SHORTHAIR litter born May 23rd. 8 pups
POINTER PUPS: Males available. If you are looking for
and females available. Excel- a smart, gorgeous, birdy, close
lent hunting dogs and superb working hunting companion
family pets. Close working dogs then please call 989-550-8595.
with strong point and retrieve Both parents available to see.
instincts. Reasonably priced for Pups will weigh approximately
the sporting family. Money back 50-55 pounds at maturity.
guarantee. Eulenhof Kennels,
Gladwin, MI.
Loving and incredibly gentle
family dogs as well as ex-
http://www.eulenhof.com cellent hunters. Find us at www.
989-426-4884 D-8-2 gouldgundogs.com D-8-1
Whitetail Realty,
Lake City, MI
231-839-8142 or
office@lakecityrealestate.com
lakecitymirealestate.com
E. Missaukee • MLS# 201802658 • $39,900
• 24 x 32 Garage w/ 10 x 12 Shed
• Electric, Well and Septic installed
• 5.7 Acres bordering State land
• Wood Stove for heat in Garage
McBain Area • MLS# 201802322 • $94,900
• 40 Acres of Recreational Property
• Rustic older House used a for Hunt Camp
• Butterfield Creek runs along West side
• Property has Open, wet & wooded areas
• Several Hunting blinds included
N. Missaukee • MLS# 21124646 • $89,000
• Wooded sq 40 acre recreational parcel
• Includes 2 campers with hookups for more
• Electric ,Well and Septic already on site.
• Includes two permanent tree stands
Dyer Lk Area • MLS# 201802884 • $35,900
• 13.9 Acres for recreation or building
• Artisan well and small stream on property
• Nicely wooded and good hunting area
• Trails thru the property
Lake City Area • MLS# 201801290 • $23,900
• 12.5 open & wooded acres
• ATV & snowmobile trails close by
• Private drive off blacktop road
• Electricity available, State land close
 15+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
& 70+ MILLION IN
MICHIGAN LAND SALES

SELL YOUR PROPERTY WITH US!

• FEATURED PROPERTIES •

21 Acres, Newaygo County, Awesome

Mecosta County, 50 Acres, 1,377 ft.
of Muskegon River Frontage,
Great Build Spots, Mature Timber,
Terrain, Great Hunting & Fishing.
$259,000
Deer Hunting, Successful Tract Record,
Tillable Acreage, Loaded With Deer &
Turkey, And Other Wildlife,
B/W Grant And Newaygo.
$76,000
Newaygo County, 88 Acres, 2,300 ft.
of Muskegon River Frontage,
Very Impressive Pole Barn Style
Lodge, Great Hunting & Fishing.
$525,000
Oceana County, 149 +/- Acres, 1 Mile
Away From Lake Michigan, Multiple
Building Sites, 40 Acres Wooded,
Great Deer And Turkey Habitat!
$295,000

Osceola County, 80 Acres, 2 Trout
Streams, Tillable Acreage, Mature
Timber, Great Wildlife Habitat,
Priced To Sell!
$145,000
. Presque Isle County, 1,500 Acres,
50,000 sq. ft. Log Home, Guest
Houses, Pole Barns, 500+ Deer Inside
Fence, Turn-Key Hunting Operation,
Rolling Terrain, Timber Value.
$5,900,000
Roscommon County, 480 Acres,
Family or Corporate Retreat,
Private Lake, 3,200 sq. ft. Lodge,
2,400 sq. ft. Man Cave, Trails,
Near Houghton Lake, Turn-Key.
$2,850,000
34.32 Acres, Wexford County,
Perfect Property For All Types
Of Recreation, Nice Timber, Great
Hunting, Trail System, Food Plot
Locations, State Land Nearby!
$75,000

BLAKE VER WOERT: 616-308-3122

JAKE DYKSTRA: 616-916-8354
CURT BRYAN: 616-745-2759
MAX WIERDA: 616-834-2010 WWW.WILDLIFEREALTY.COM
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 89
 1790 ACRES – ALPENA & PRESQUE ISLE COUNTIES
Available in two separate parcels.

40 ACRES OF HUNTING BLISS

Ranch home with a full walk out basement, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths,
CLOSE TO M-32 & M-65– WELL STOCKED FOREST – EXCELLENT WILDLIFE HABITAT –
gourmet kitchen. All season Sun room with separate entrance.
Attached 3 car garage plus a 32’ X 48’ Pole Barn (can fit 2 semi trucks)
UPLAND BIRDS FOUND THROUGHOUT THIS WELL MANAGED HUNTING GROUND.
14 ft doors. Deer, rabbit & turkey are
MORE INFORMATION CONTACT • HURON CONSULTING bountiful. There also is a small pond
and swamp area on the property.
T JACQUES 989-329-8079 BROKER/ FORESTER Hunters Paradise is at 2152 Five Lakes
ON WEB AT HTTPS://WWW.HHPROPERTIES.US/ Rd, Metamora, MI 48455 $459,900

160 State Wide Real Estate of Mio

Acres on BEAUTIFUL WATERFRONT

Sugar HOME - Mio, 96 ft of great

frontage on Mack Lake, large

Island lawn, 3 bd, 2 ba, fireplace, newer

windows, fantastic sunroom
Surrounded by the Great Lakes and St. Mary’s River! In Sault off the kitchen, kitchen island,
Sainte Marie Michigan! Shopping, hunting, you name it you master suite, central air, generator
have it all! Privacy and a store right across the street from your backup, detached garage, steel
property! $144,000 roof, well cared for waterfront
home. $149,900 D-391
D’Anna Dettore-Keeble, Realtor
310.667.1838
dannadettore@gmail.com Tom Galbraith • 989-826-3292

CALL 300 Acre

223 W. Main, Edmore MI 48829
223
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MIMI48829
MI
www.eaglerealtymi.com
www.eaglerealtymi.com
Main, Edmore 48829
48829
Licensed
888-967-4140
www.eaglerealtymi.com
888-967-4140
888-967-4140
www.eaglerealtymi.com
www.eaglerealtymi.com
Deer
888-967-4140
888-967-4140
888.967.4140 810-724-0254 Farm
TO PLACE YOUR Located between Charlevoix
and Traverse City.
AD TODAY! 10 foot x 3 mile fence.

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P.O. Box 278 • 594 N. Almont Ave. • Imlay City, MI 48444
Phone: (810) 724-0254 • Fax: (810) 724-8552
$700,000
231-330-9210
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$140,000 # 318701
13Acres
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and27
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13 wildlife
13 Acres Tillable and 27
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bunkhouse
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acres
acres wooded
wooded with
with trails
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acres woodedwithwith trails
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andfood
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and outbuildings
andfood
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Wooded
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workshop Wooded Acres
24X32 finished heated
13 Acres Tillable and 27
bunkhouse STATE WIDE REAL Check out our web site for
additional properties of all types.
$224,900.00
$224,900.00
$224,900.00
$224,900.00
acres wooded with trails $229,900.00
$229,900.00
$229,900.00
$229,900.00
and food plots
35 Mixed Tillable &
Wooded Acres
ESTATE OF HAWKS www.statewideofhawks.com
OF HAWKS FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT ONE OF OUR AGENTS: 989.734.4840
90 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
$224,900.00 $229,900.00
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 91
 Offices Serving Lower &
Upper Michigan
Bringing people and places together since 1945
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TODAY!
statewiderealestate.net

• Houghton

Marquette
• Newberry
Curtis •
Crystal Falls • Manistique •
•
• Gladstone
Escanaba • Onaway
• Powers • • Hawks
Menominee • Hillman
• Alpena
Marinette •
• Atlanta
Mio • • Harrisville

• Almont
Linden •
Howell •

Contact Your Nearest State Wide Real

Estate Office To Buy or Sell In Michigan

ALPENA
1100 W. Chisholm, 49707
email: alpswre@speednetllc.com
989-356-2142 • Fax: 989-356-2144
HARRISVILLE
430 S. US-23, 48740
email: sold@anjstatewide.com
989-724-5711 • 800-655-5735
Fax: 989-724-6833
SUMMER CLEARANCE
MARINETTE, WISCONSIN
1460 Marinette Ave., 54143
email: statewidemarinette@yahoo.com
715-735-9964 • Fax: 715-732-1107
SUMMER CLEARANCE! • DISCOUNTED PRICES! • SUMMER CLEARANCE! • DISCOUNTED PRICES! • SUMMER CLEARANCE!

ALMONT
844 Van Dyke Road
lafrancesharon@yahoo.com
810-798-8591 • Fax: 810-798-8079
CRYSTAL FALLS
225 Superior Ave
Crystal Falls, MI 49920
PH: 906-874-3500
PH: 906-396-3002
email: steve@statewide.estate
CURTIS/NEWBERRY
Main Street, P.O. Box 305, 49820
email: swcurtis@sbcglobal.net
906-586-9606 • Fax: 906-586-9607
HAWKS
8383 Hwy. 451, 49743
email: rita8383@yahoo.com
989-734-4846
HILLMAN
14938 State Street, P.O. Box 98, 49746
email: statewidehillman@yahoo.com
989-742-4523 • 800-228-7856
Fax: 989-742-3931
HOUGHTON
500 Shelden Ave., 49931
email: dick@statewideofhoughton.com
906-482-6955 • 800-676-6323
Fax: 906-482-7699
One-10 ACRE SAND BEACH LOT (this lot has it all):
60 miles east of Sault Ste. Marie. 300’ frontage on Bright
MARQUETTE Lake near Hwy 17 East (lake area approx.. 24 sq. miles),
856 W. Washington, 49855 year-round access with power to property. Inland lake
email: sw@statewiderealestate.org has Perch, Bass, Walleye and Northern Pike. Priced to
906-228-9312 • Fax: 906-228-8069
sell at $109,900 US.
1,350 ACRES: Prime hunting property - 50 min. East of
International Bridge. Hunt camp, hardwood 900,000
board feet, and also some softwood. Timber info avail-
MENOMINEE able on request. Miles of trails thru-out. Beaver ponds
3631 10th Street, 49858 and streams. Small amount of open area. $799,900 US.
email: statewideone@newbc.rr.com MACDONALD PROPERTY: 759 acres with hunting
906-863-9905 camp, 25 miles east of Sault St. Marie Ontario, property
is gated, isolated and wooded, with an insulated 4 bed-
Fax: 906-863-7935 room, 2-story cabin. Generator wired. 20-acre lake and 2
streams. Great Bear Hunting! Two Deer plots! Five
deeds, no guide required, underpriced at $239,900 US.
MIO WOW ONLY $316 PER ACRE. Terms available, excel-
lent buy!
102 West 8th St., P.O. Box 395, 48647
email: info@statewidemio.com SPORTSMAN’S PARADISE: 115 acres of softwood and
989-826-3292
hardwood bush uncut with creek flowing into lake huron.
Fax: 989-826-2108
Shoreline is three-quarters mile facing south with a
2-bedroom cabin with a well, solar generator power and
several outbuildings. ASKING $249,900 US.
SUMMER CLEARANCE! • DISCOUNTED PRICES! • SUMMER CLEARANCE! • DISCOUNTED PRICES! • SUMMER CLEARANCE!
EXCLUSIVE LAKE HURON WATERFRONT & WATER-
VIEW ESTATE LOTS LOCATED IN THESSALON,
ONTARIO 50 MILES EAST OF SAULT STE. MARIE,
ONTARIO ON HIGHWAY 17 EAST: Lighthouse Point
serviced with hydro, telephone, sewer, water, gas, cable
on paved street. Airport, marina and hospital in area.
No time limit for building. Waterfront lots 100’– 478’ front-
age, waterview lots 80’ frontage. Prices from $10,000
US and up.
140 ACRES HARDWOOD AND SOFTWOOD UNCUT
BUSH ON HWY 17, 48 MILES EAST OF SAULT,
ONTARIO: this is in a great hunting area and close to
bruce mines for supplies etc. Power at the property line
with fields adjacent to this parcel. ASKING $52,900
O.B.O.
400 ACRES OF ROLLING HARD-AND SOFTWOOD
HILLS: Large beaver pond and creek runs thru property,
next to above property if more acreage is required.
Property is great for bear hunting, white tail and grouse.
Four miles off year-round maintained road. $99,900 US.
ONLY $250 PER ACRE.
160 ACRES HARDWOOD & SOFTWOOD: Large bea-
ver pond. Only 2 miles off year-round maintained road.
35 minutes East of Sault, Ontario. $48,900 US.

ONAWAY FINANCING AVAILABLE O.A.C.

ESCANABA
2209 Ludington Street, 49829
email: escanaba@statewiderealestate.net
906-786-1308 • 800-900-0777
Fax: 906-786-1388
GLADSTONE
1401 Delta Ave.,
Gladstone, MI 49837
906-825-9000
email: judy@statewiderealestate.net
M-33 & M-68,
CANADIAN PROPERTY CLOSE TO
HOWELL/LINDEN
1285 S. Michigan Ave., Howell, MI 48843 P.O. Box 478, 49765
email: statewid@earthlink.net
517-546-9060 • 800-531-4449
email: bigdan@frontier.com
989-733-6522
SAULT STE. MARIE, MICHIGAN BORDER
Fax: 517-546-9148 Fax: 989-733-2427 OTHER PROPERTIES AVAILABLE!
NO GUIDE OR OUTFITTER REQUIRED!
MANISTIQUE
10 N. State Highway M-149
POWERS
W3776 US2 & 41, 49874 LAJAMBE OFFICE: (705) 248-9663 CELL: (705) 941-8355
FAX: (705) 248-1110
Cooks, MI 49817
906-644-2304
email: dekeysermary@yahoo.com
906-497-4190
Fax: 906-497-5328
holly@statewiderealestate.net
ENTERPRISESINC. Frank Lajambe
flajambe@lajambe.com
715 Finns Bay Road www.lajambe.com
Echo Bay, Ontario CAN POS 1C0 *Prices subject to change.

92 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS

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

Local: 989-345-2662 Local: 989-728-2540 Local: 989-345-0315

Toll Free: 800-535-6520 www.CAHANES.com Toll Free: 800-495-2540 www.CAHANES.com Toll Free: 866-345-0315

“UP NORTH” HOMES AND COTTAGES

ALL
SPORTS
493 ACRE
LAKE!!
Enjoy access
to Long Lake
w/this move-
POPULAR SAGE LAKE!! ACROSS FROM NAT’L FOREST!! ACROSS FROM RIFLE LAKE!! in ready ACROSS FROM STATE LAND!!
Spacious 4-bdrm, open floor plan, FP, a bath on Almost an acre w/3-bdrm home with freshly Cute and updated 2-bdrm home w/views of 3-bdrm home Beautiful 4-bdrm in Clear Lake area on just over
each floor, walkout bsmt, upper deck, covered painted interior, custom cabinets & more! all sports lake and just steps to public lake w/open floor plan, appliances, main floor AN ACRE w/ garage, workshop, convenient up-
patio, breezeway to garage, boat dock, 155’ of With some outside work, this would make a access! Knotty pine interior, hickory cabinets, master, front & rear decks, furnishings & lots per level bath, master suite, lots of storage in
water frontage on 785 acre all sports lake!! great getaway or year round residence! front porch, covered rear porch & more!! of household items! kitchen and deck w/gorgeous views!!
$235,000 1860613 $45,900 1848661 $79,500 1847245 $69,900 1862670 $139,900 1860562

CLOSE TO LAKE AND RIVER!!
3-bdrm home in need of some updates and
bedroom flooring w/FP, garage and shed.
Over a half acre of property and would make a
nice Up North getaway or spacious yr round!!
$49,900 1861619
BEAUTIFUL RIVER FRONTAGE!!
3-bdrm Saltbox style home on a large lot with
72+ feet of frontage on gorgeous Rifle River!
Back deck w/nice views, appliances, newer
furnace, water heater & roof!!
$149,900 1861915
YEAR ROUND OR GETAWAY!!
Nice 3-bdrm home w/large windows, nice
views, AC, new furnace in 2017, garage,
appliances, level lot and both front and rear
decks, with view of Lake George from front!!
$79,000 1863388
COUNTRY LIVING AT ITS FINEST!!
5.9 ACRES, partly wooded w/stream running
thru, and spacious 4-bdrm home, fantastic
views, full bsmt w/2nd kitchen & wood stove,
2 garages, small vineyard & more!!
$139,900 1861901
ALMOST ¾ ACRE!!
Cute 2-bdrm home on 5 wooded lots for plenty
of elbow room and a garage for storage! Also
not far from many lakes for swimming, boating
& fishing and near State lands for the hunter!!
$34,900 1858769

LONG SPACIOUS ACREAGE

LAKE CHALET ON RIFLE
WATER- ON 10 RIVER!!
FRONT!! ACRES!! Gorgeous
Beautiful, 3-bdrm w/ 3-bdrm, 1.7
mostly fur- open floor bath Chalet,
nished, 3-bdrm plan, ap- 5.26 ACRES,
HENDERSON LAKE!! BEAUTIFUL INSIDE & OUT!! w/floor to ceil- pliances, floor to ceiling
Neat and clean 2-bdrm mobile home with deeded 3-bdrm, 1.5 bath home on paved road w/ga- ing windows, spectacular views, office, up- beautiful views, FP, office or 4th bdrm, partly windows, beau-
access to 171 acre all sports lake! Open floor plan, rage, large living area, super nice kitchen w/is- dated kitchen, AC, FP, large deck & 2nd deck insulated 30x40 pole bldg, whole house tiful views, open
appliances, screened porch & several outbldgs in- land, pantry & newer cabinets, flooring & appli- & shed at water’s edge, aluminum boat dock generator, large deck & property backs up to floor plan, master suite, loft, trails thru-out
cluding heated garage w/washer and dryer!! ances, wrap-around deck, landscaping & more!! & so many more great amenities!! State land!! property & frontage on the Rifle River!!
$32,000 1862230 $139,900 1862681 $306,000 1863615 $159,999 1863471 $169,900 1862631

IMMACULATE LAKEFRONT!!
Beautiful, completely remodeled 3-bdrm, 1.5 ba
home w/detached garage & 75” on all sports Peach
Lake. Tons of updates, appliances, deck, sunroom,
gas fireplace, beautiful views & much more!!
$244,500 1858694
LOTS OF RECENT UPDATES!!
Cozy one bedroom home w/approximate $15K in up-
dates, including remodeled kitchen and bath, newer coun-
ter tops and appliances, newer flooring, newer oak pan-
eling, newer pumps, newer doors, newer vinyl & more!!
$57,500 1858471
BEAUTIFUL LAKEFRONT HOME!!
Over 2100 square feet & 3-bdrm home on pleasant
Big Williams Lake! Master suite, large open kitchen/
dining area, fireplace in living area, on demand wa-
ter heater, sunroom, deck, fantastic views & more!!
$92,000 1842289
SECLUDED FOR PRIVACY!! NEAR POPULAR CLEAR LAKE!!
Spacious 4-bdrm, 3 ba home nestled on 25 3-bedroom, 1.7 ba home w/garage located
ACRES! Open floor plan, beautiful views, full, fin- in fantastic recreational area near all sports
ished bsmt, large deck & covered porch, above- lake & state lands! FP, porch, main floor
ground pool, 45x60 outbldg & so much more!! master & more!!
$229,000 1864155 $59,000 1859595

CUTE AND CLEAN!!
2-bedroom, 2 bath ranch-style on two lots!
Well-maintained, open floor plan, appliances,
sunroom, wooded back yard, garage & ac-
cess to all sports private Lake Ogemaw!!
$59,900 1859169
GEORGE LAKE!!
Cute 2-bedroom, move-in ready home w/
access to all sports George Lake w/newer
metal roof, newer well, appliances, deck,
sheds and also near all sports Rifle Lake!!
$54,900 1858789
YEAR ROUND!!
2 large bedrooms, open floor plan, some ap-
pliances, full bath, garage, fenced yard for
your pets, shed with fireplace & screens for
relaxing & near lakes & State lands!!
$58,000 1859683
HARDWOOD LAKE!!
Cozy 2-bedroom cottage w/large living area,
some furnishings & appliances, sunroom
with spectacular sunsets, garage, shed,
sandy beach, roll-in dock & more!!
$154,900 1859766
SIX WOODED ACRES!!
Newer 2-bdrm home w/attached garage near
thousands of acres of Nat’l Forest for hunting &
riding trails. Year round home w/open floor plan,
AC, 1300+ square feet & pleasant setting!!
$125,000 1864076

VACANT LAND - WATERFRONT

FOREST LAKE!!
Nice wooded lot w/65’ of water frontage on
all sports 330 acre lake! Great subd w/secu-
rity, community boat docks, waterfront parks,
lovely manicured common areas & more!!
$35,000 1863300
RIFLE RIVER!! ALL SPORTS LAKE OGEMAW!! 2.07 ACRES & CREEK FRONTAGE!! FLOWAGE LAKE!!!!
Two lots with frontage on the beautiful Rifle Over a half acre with frontage on all sports Beautiful property in nice subdivision with Beautiful lot with water frontage on Flowage
River and potential site for building your Lake Ogemaw and a gentle slope to water. 151+ feet of water frontage on Ogemaw Lake. Potential building site and just minutes
vacation or dream home. Great location to On paved road, potential bldg site and LC Creek and great site for building your new from town for dining and shopping. Several
enjoy excellent fishing & kayaking!! terms available!! home or weekend getaway!! other sites also available!!
$29,900 1860204 $59,900 1790612 $76,000 1855912 $101,000 1763733

FOR MORE LISTINGS

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.CAHANES.COM
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 93
 TARGET REAL ESTATE SPECIALIZES IN
WATERFRONT HOMES AND HUNTING PARCELS
“WE REPRESENT BUYERS AND SELLERS”

EAST TAWAS WHITTEMORE

Turn-key hunting camp with 160 acres of prime Whitetail 39 wooded acres with Mongo Creek running thru
habitat. Located near Tuttle Marsh the property includes it. Property includes a pond, food plots, box blinds,
several food plots, 3 elevated box blinds, Kunze Creek in the shed, a small cabin that needs finishing and borders
rear, and a nice cabin with full kitchen, bath and bunk room. hundreds of acres of state land.
MLS #1862886 $294,900 MLS #1863078 $99,000
WHITTEMORE-$7,000, 3.11 acre vacant parcel near the corner of Nile and Keystone
Road on a county maintained paved road. Located in an area of larger parcels in a country
setting, this cleared parcel would make a nice place to build. MLS #1835861
GREENBUSH-$11,900, 3 acre potential building site with pond. Well covered with large
White Pine, a few oaks and some apple tree’s. Great wildlife in the area and close to federal
and state land, several golf courses, Lake Huron and the AuSable River. MLS #1862059
HARRISVILLE-$19,900, Twenty acres +/- located in a country setting outside of
Harrisville. Open ground with a small pond in the middle. Lots of wildlife and deer in the area.
Golf courses, Lake Huron and several other recreational opportunities are just minutes from
this location! MLS #1862061
HARRISVILLE-$29,900, Nice 10 acre parcel minutes from Harrisville and the harbor.
Elevated views compliment this well wooded property. There are hardwood ridges and
planted pines. Potential area for walkout basement and pond. MLS #1848888
WHITTEMORE-$110,000, 33+ well wooded acres on M-65 just south of town fronting
2 roads. Includes a 2 bdrm/1.5 bath 1360sf home with a 2 car garage, plus an additional
structure on the adjoining road to finish as desired. Great deal at this price, come take a look
today. MLS #1857910
MORE PARCELS ARE AVAILABLE . . .
CALL TODAY FOR MORE DETAILS
866-496-4400
TARGET REAL
ESTATE COMPANY
701 W. Bay Street, East Tawas, MI 48730
Office (989)362-4400 • Cell (989)370-2152
info@TargetRealEstate.com
www.TargetRealEstate.com

Heritage Exclusive Marketing Agents for Northeast

House Michigan Properties
RealtyPC Located in the Heart of the Huron National Forest, on the
“Personalized Service is the Difference”
Shores of Lake Huron and the banks of the AuSable River

4215 N US 23 Britt Rd 3315 AuSable St

This is your chance to walk 1800 sf, 4 bed, 1 bath with 1270 sf, 3 bed, 1.5 bath with
into a well-established attached oversized garage attached garage and a
Antiques and Furniture store plus 52+ acres to hunt/roam breathtaking view you won’t
with several detached all year long. Ideal hunting see anywhere else. House
commercial rental units and location or just your northern sits atop a hill overlooking 23
10 residential rental units retreat, close to all the areas acres and one of the best
with good history including recreational activities. This is views of the AuSable river
almost 5 acres. Priced to a definite MUST SEE! you will ever find. $179,900
sell at $625,000 NEW $195,000

E F-30 4210 E Rolling Hills Rd 4625 River St

This is a true Outdoorsman’s 1022 sf, 3 bed, 2 bath with
Paradise, 80 acres with full basement, garage and
flowing creek allowing for large deck overlooking 10+
ample hunting and fishing acres offering privacy and all
opportunities all year long. the outdoor recreation
Camp is all set for you to activities you can think of.
enjoy for as long as you want Call today to view this Move-
to stay. $189,900 in-Ready beauty! $199,000
1248 sf, 2 bed 1 bath with
attached garage and soon
completed new roof. Enjoy
all the wildlife that visit the
area daily while still having
the convenience of being in
town. $89,900

316 4th St 430 Sitzmark Dr 1535 E Spruce Rd

690 sf, 2 bed, 1 bath fully 1750+ sf, 2 bed, 2 bath with
remodeled with plenty of full finished basement,
space to add a garage. attached garage and easy
Convenient location in town access to Hubbard Lake.
close to shopping/dining and Enjoy watching wildlife from
access to AuSable River and in front of your fireplace or off
Lake Huron. This one won’t your deck. Call today, this
last long! NEW $53,000 won’t last. $139,900
1500 sf, 3 bed, 2 bath with
attached garage is move in
ready for you today. Ideal
location in town keeps that
rural feeling but still only
minutes away from Alpena.
REUDCED $75,000

406 E Fowler Rd 4998 Cedar Lake Rd 405 E Church St

1770 sf, 3 bed, 1.5 bath with 2 acres of beautiful frontage 1750 sf, 4 bed, 2 bath
40 acres ideal for the on Cedar Lake would make Historic Victorian in
upcoming hunting seasons ideal building location for Downtown Harrisville. This
or just to enjoy as your new that dream home you have is your chance to own a
getaway. This is one of always wanted. Sites this piece of history with this
those hidden gems that large are rare to come Move in Ready home. You
doesn’t come along very across, especially ones that must see to truly appreciate
often. REDUCED $137,900 have not been touched. all this has to offer!
$110,900 REDUCED $109,900

Call 800-650-5566 - Glennie or 800-982-0102 - Harrisville - www.HeritageHouseRealty.com

94 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
 C oventry R ealty LLC
CAROLE PORRETTA, GRI, BROKER-OWNER
810.678.2288 Office / 231.818.2157 Cell
www.CoventryRealtyLLC.com

Like the Weather, Our Listings are HOT!

3485 SUTTON - $525,000 5675 PHILLIPS - $439,900

• Beautiful 4 bed/4 bath home, 10 acres.
• Metamora Hunt Country! Owner-built!
• Open foyer w/Oak floors & formal dining.
• Kit. w/granite, thermidor cooktop, Cherry/Oak!
• Htd sunroom, indoor greenhouse, study!
• LL w/o w/kit, frplc, Billiards rm, Pine wet bar.
• Heated garage drywalled w/epoxy flooring.
• Barn w/electric, water & overhead storage.
• 2 Tiered ponds, creek, woods & trails!!
• Custom-built Red Pine log home!
• Beautiful appointments & woodwork.
• Spacious kitchen. Hickory cabinets.
• Newer appliances & large island!
• Bentwood railings, open staircase!
• 20 acres with breathtaking views!!
• 8 acres of hardwoods for hunting.
• Morton barn! 42 X 75, radiant heat.
• Horse barn, run-ins, pastures, fenced.

LAKE GEORGE RD VL - $1,150,000 BOWERS RD VL - $329,900

• 40+ Acres in Metamora Hunt Country!
• Rolling hills, pastures, hay fields & pond!
• Heavy woods, trails, riding or hunting!
• Land Contract terms, More land available.
• Electric; Property split from larger estate.
• 71+ acres, paved rd, nat’l gas, rolling.
• E of Lapeer, close to schools & shopping.
• Rent or farm for $3000+ yearly income.
• Great Solar Field opportunity in place.
• Develop a subdivision or private estate.

LEVALLEY RD VL - $194,000 DRYDEN RD VL - $172,900

• 60 acres total! Beautiful wooded parcel.
• 58 acre nature preserve w/10 acre lake!
• 2 acre building site on Levalley adjoins.
• Private, fruit trees, serene trails, wildlife.
• Perfect for photographers/nature lovers!
• 24 acres of woods fields and rolling hills.
• Beautiful Metamora Hunt Country.
• Perfect for horses, farming or hunting.
• Nat’l gas, paved road, schools of choice.
• Original family farm with easy commute.

Grand Rapids - Lansing - Kalamazoo

Sells abs
Tremendous
hunting! 100 Acres - Timber - Cabin - Pond after min
bid!
olute
imum

At Auction!
September 17th at 6 pm
Directions: North of Hastings MI on 43, 2 miles to Willits
Sellers: Brandon and 3661 N Hammond Road
Road. Then left 1 mile to Hammond Road. North on
Gretchen Cropsey Hammond (follow jogs) 1 mile. Hastings MI 49058
Open Houses: Public is welcome to inspect property on August 17th and 31st from 1 to 4 pm. Parcel One
•24 +,- acres with frontage on Hammond Road
•If purchased separately from Parcel 2, a 66
foot easement will be given across parcel
one to provide access to parcel 2.
Parcel 1
Parcel 2 •Gorgeous cabin recently remodeled
•Large whitetails
•Pond stocked with fish
•Fountain in pond
•In qualified Forest Program if purchased with
parcel 2, but not if purchased separately
•Minimum bid $239,000 then sells without
reserve.
Interior of cabin
Cabin-recently remodeled with kitchen, Private st
Both parcels have some mature Timber including: ocked
bath, and bedrooms Parcel Two pond and
•White Oak foun-
•75 acres +,- tain!
•Red Oak
•Large whitetails
•Cherry
•In Qualified Forest Program
•Maple
which provides tax breaks
And more..
•Minimum bid $3,000 per acre then sells
2 parcels that may be purchased seperately or as •Rolling Ridges
without reserve.
a combination •Lots of Trails
Auctioneer’s Note: Outdoorsman’s •Parcels may be purchased separately or as a Cabin
paradise on earth! This getaway is locat- combination. •Rustic log cabin in
ed almost equidistant to Grand Rapids, 10% down night of auction (nonrefundable). Balance mint condition
Well and stocked pond is due at closing in approximately 60 days. Both •Hot water
Kalamazoo, and Lansing.
parcels must meet the advertised minimums or •New shower
Each Mossy Oak Properties office is independently owned and operated. seller has right to keep both. •New LP wall heater
Co-listed with:

Call Eugene: 260.350.8953

Loren Beachy Eugene Hochstetler Nathan Lehman Jesse Riegsecker
574.825.0704 260.350.8953 574.349.8570 574.612.7277
AU10500161 AU11400005 AU11000090 RB14046169

WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 95

 10,700 Sq. Ft. Mansion on 10 Acres 57 ACRES IN NW OAKLAND COUNTY
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
ONLINE AUCTION UP NORTH FEEL WITHOUT THE DRIVE
Tuesday, August 20 – 2404 W 10 ½ Mile Rd., Irons, MI 2370 Granger Road in Ortonville
Enjoy the Peace and Tranquility of your private
residence overlooking beautiful Perry Lake w/
mature forests, Hay Fields, 900’ frontage on
Perry Lake & abundant wild life; Deer, Turkeys,
Ducks, Geese & Game fish. Imagine a horse
farm, a hunting or game lodge, a children’s
camp or retreat or even a Subdivision with
• 4BD & 5BA, beautiful custom-built home on 10 acres Lake Access. This is a truly secluded paradise
where the possibilities are endless.
• This well-designed and built home has been recently remodeled
• The main floor: formal dining room, large kitchen, completely remodeled game room with • 57 Scenic acres with an authentic modern log/stone
a bar area, living room, full bath, additional room used as a bedroom and office. The main cabin featuring 4 bdrms, 2.5 baths & a finished
floor leads you to a large pool room with a sauna room, hot tub, and large swimming pool lower level walkout set back from Granger Road
• The upstairs features 2 large bedrooms with a shared bathroom and master suite, • Approximately 3/16 miles by ½ mile
2 extra-large bedrooms with a shared bathroom and walk in-closet, bath with a tiled • Property has a 70’ drop in elevation in rolling hills
shower, and beautiful views of the property through the windows from Granger Rd to Perry Lake
• The house has a 2-stall attached garage and an additional 8 stall garage • 4-Car garage and 4-Run Kennel
• Situated on The 10 acres, the home lies adjacent to the Manistee National Forest • 900’ on glacial Perry Lake
• The 10 acres has a hunting blind on the property, wildlife throughout • Picture your country home in harmony with this
spectacular landscape
Surrounded by thousands of acres of state land, snowmobile trails, and many • Brandon Township’s famous trail system & outdoor
more attractions make this a great home, retreat, or northern get away! amenities are close by
• Easy access to DTE Music Theatre, Great Lakes Crossing
and many other city amenities
• 3 miles SE of Ortonville; close to I-75 and M-15

SEE OUR LISTING BY ADDRESS ONLINE

SEE PICTURES, A VIRTUAL VIDEO
Open Houses: & DRONE SHOTS
Perry
For detailed information & to bid
visit LASTBIDrealestate.com SHOWINGS BY APPOINTMENT
Aug. 2 & 14 or call/text Jordan at 616-460-8936.
GO ONLINE OR CALL C. WARREN:
248-755-1233 Lake
from 12pm-2pm CALL FOR SCHEDULED OPEN HOUSES

3 BD, 1 BA mobile on 10 acres.
It has been used as a deer
camp, yet has all the comforts
of home. The mobile can be
lived in all year with great ac-
cess on a nice private road.
Has a 10x14 shed for storage
and plenty of room to roam.
MLS 18031425 $34,900
10 wooded acres with an
older 1 BD, 1 BA trailer, well
and septic. Access to the
beach is right up the road
and federal land is only a
1/4 of a mile away. Nice
area to enjoy everything the
great up north has to offer!
MLS 18043192 $39,900
10 Acres of the PERFECT
hunting property with Federal
land in the back and front. The
1 room ‘’rustic cabin’’ needs
a little TLC but has possibil-
ity. The property is beautiful
with a nice mix of trees on a
county maintained road.
MLS 18050484 $45,000
Located on an ORV Full Ac-
cess road close to trail sys-
tems and State land! 2 BD, 1
BA mobile home has washer,
dryer, pellet stove tied to the
ducts and an addition for extra
storage. Garage has a work
room area and more storage.
MLS 19000585 $46,900
3 BD, 1 BA cabin located on
a paved road in the Big Star
Lake area. Sits off the road far
enough to feel at ease. Nicely
wooded lot with no neighbors
in the back and a 2 stall garage
for toys and storage. Bank
owned property - sold as is!
MLS 19026453 $49,900

Great Place to Camp in un-
zoned Cherry Valley Twp,
has paved road frontage,
approximately 142’ frontage
on the Sanborn Creek, and
easy access yet still has a
feeling of seclusion. Close to
trails and State Land.
MLS 19008409 $12,900
96 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
5+ Acres on both sides of M-37.
With Cedar Creek running through
it to the east and 160’ from Federal
Land to the west, you get the best
of both worlds! Great access and
potential building site overlooking
Cedar Creek. Walking distance to
trails and hunting.
MLS 19001772 $16,900
Gorgeous frontage on Blood
Creek! Just under an acre
of beautifully wooded prop-
erty with a 3 BD mobile home.
Great place to get away and
enjoy the peace and quiet.
The mobile is being sold as is.
Schedule your showing today!
MLS 19023532 $34,900
Nicely wooded lot on great fishing
Watermill Lake! Fronts on a paved
county road for easy access. 125
feet of frontage, it is unimproved
but wouldn’t take much to make
it into something nice. Ready
for the summer, this would be a
great, affordable getaway spot!
MLS 19019284 $17,000
66 ft on Mill Lake! This
parcel comes with a 20 ft
camper with an attached
screened in porch. Per-
fect spot to get away and
enjoy the great up north!
Call to schedule your ap-
pointment today!
MLS 18033873 $29,900
 W 23 Mile Rd

4
Red Clay Ranch

S Pea Line Rd
1
Town Line Rd

OUT
2 3
BOUNDARIES
APPROXIMATE
©Pictometry.com

440± ACRES
We are offering a highly-productive hay and cattle operation
in tracts ranging from 40 to 160 acres. This is a great opportunity
for investment in a fertile hay farm, recreational ground, and a
reputable farming operation in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

ONLINE AUCTION: AUGUST 6

BIDDING ENDS AT 1PM
Inspections (12 noon-5pm):
Tues, July 23 & Mon, August 5
5696 W Town Line Rd
PICKFORD, MI (517) 676-9800
SheridanAuctionService.com

Woods ‘N’ Water News

August
3 Bdrm, 1 bth, lake home.
Big Stevens Lk. Well kept
1/4 page = $400
1 Bdrm, 1 bth, camp. Could be on 4.84 acres with 278’ frtg. 1 Bdrm, 1 bth, 160 Acres. Elect,
x’s 1 run(s) = $400
year around! 7 Acres, park-like, Great hunting/fishing. Snow- well, septic, built in 2000.
private. Stephenson. mobiling! Gar. Wetmore. 30x40 Pole barn. Hermansville.
$75,500 1114891 $145,900 1112478 $225,000 1114399

THOUSANDS OF
ACRES AVAILABLE
FROM $12,900 TO $325,000. 2 Bdrm Cozy Camp on 2 Bdrm, 1 bth, log home. On 1 Bdrm, 1 bth cozy cottage near
Escanaba River in Marquette Cedar River. Large garage. Steven’s Lake. Elec. Generator
Escanaba Co. Rock. Cedar River. included. Deck. Gar. Wetmore.
2209 Ludington Street $40,000 1115492 $199,000 1112404 $54,500 1113683
(906) 786-1308

Powers
W3776 US 2 & 41
(906) 497-4190

Gladstone 1 Bdrm, 1 bth home. 157 Acres on

1401 Delta Ave.
the Rapid River. 50x60 Steel Bldg
(906) 825-9000
with 1000 Sq Ft living space.
Solar in-floor heat. Rapid River.
$475,000 1113016
1 Bdrm Camp. 4 Acres. Elec- 1 Bdrm, 1 Bth cottage.
tric. Yr round access. Great Gorgeous sand beach
location. Cornell. swimming. Stonington.
$33,000 1112567 $109,900 1115685
WNW NEWS AUGUST 2019 97
 33 rd Annual Woods-N-Water News

Outdoor Weekend
September 6 - 7 - 8 th th th

OVER

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Outdoor Exhibits!
Seminars, Puppies
Gun Auction & More

r O u t d o o r H e r i t a g e !
eC leb ra t i n gO u
Eastern Michigan State Fairgrounds in Imlay City
www.OutdoorWeekend.net
98 AUGUST 2019 WNW NEWS
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Pontoon Sale!!!

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