Category Archives: shooting

Most brown trout in the Deerfield River are wild, not stocked

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For the past four years, MassWildlife has been conducting extensive mark-recapture electrofishing surveys on the Deerfield River to assess the brown trout population. The surveys were focused on the upper section of the river from the Fife Brook Dam to the Route 2 bridge crossing in Charlemont. Results from this work show that over 80% of the brown trout in this section of the Deerfield River are wild. These wild trout were born in the Deerfield or a nearby tributary, not stocked as adults from the hatchery. Based on these findings, MassWildlife has decided that brown trout stocking is no longer necessary in this section of the river since there are many wild fish present.

“Fishing in the Deerfield River is better than ever, and anglers will not notice much of a change from the stocking adjustments,” says Adam Kautza, MassWildlife’s Coldwater Fishery Resource Project Leader. “We will continue to stock rainbow trout in this section of the river. Also, the typical allotment of hatchery-raised brown trout usually stocked upstream of the Route 2 bridge will still be stocked further downstream.” The combination of stocked trout and wild brown trout along with two catch-and-release only areas make the Deerfield a premier destination for all kinds of anglers.

Consistent with the last four years of the survey, MassWildlife biologists will continue to clip the adipose fin of all hatchery-raised brown trout released into the lower section of the Deerfield. “This will enable us to continue monitoring this area and we will know if any hatchery trout make the trip upstream,” says Kautza. “We will continue to monitor the trout population and reassess as needed.”

This survey, along with other fisheries research, allows MassWildlife to manage fish populations more effectively and to provide a variety of fishing opportunities to the public. This project was made possible by ongoing support from the Deerfield River Watershed Chapter of Trout Unlimited and the Greater Boston Chapter of Trout Unlimited. These groups were instrumental in getting this project started and provided physical and financial assistance along the way. “We commend MassWildlife for taking this huge step toward protecting and expanding the wild brown trout population in the upper Deerfield,” says Eric Halloran, president of the Deerfield River Watershed Chapter of Trout Unlimited. “We have known for years that this part of the Deerfield has a significant population of wild brown trout. We hope that through our working relationship with MassWildlife the wild trout population in the Deerfield Watershed will continue to expand.”

Proposed change in goose hunting season

A couple of months ago, it was mentioned in this column that certain waterfowl regulation changes were going to be recommended at a public hearing on April 26.  One of the proposed changes would have affected the goose hunters by listing the Berkshire Late Goose season from December 15 to January 30.  However; based upon the minutes of the April 2023 Fish & Game Board, they approved a different proposed season which would run from January 1 through February 15.

In response to my inquiry for reasons for the change, MassWildlife answered that they did so in response to public comments from hunters, both written and in person at the hearing, Hunters commented that the February portion of the season provides an important opportunity to hunt at a time, and in places, where there is little other activity or conflict with other users. Basically, the Board approved the dates that they felt gave the best opportunity for Berkshire goose hunters.

Ice fishermen expect cold temperatures at that time of year.  They need plenty of ice for safety reasons.  To counter the cold, they can walk around, chase the tip-ups, cook some warm grub on a hibachi, socialize with other ice fishermen, etc.

But hunkering down and staying still in a small goose blind in February? No, no, not for me.

Pittsfield Sportsmen’s Club youth fishing event

The PSC is sponsoring a kid’s fishing event at Reynolds Pond in Cheshire on Saturday June 17 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. It is for kids 12 and under and their parents don’t have to be club members.

There will be snacks for the kids and 5 prizes for kids who catch a tagged trout.

For more information, contact Sandra and Ed Bushey at (413) 443-9371.

Mass Firearm Law Seminar

 

The Lenox Sportsmen’s Club (LSC) is hosting an educational seminar for both License to Carry Firearms (LTC) holders and non-holders.  The Massachusetts Firearm Law Seminar is being held Tuesday, June 13 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 am at the Lenox Sportsmen’s Club, 258 New Lenox Road, Lenox, MA.

Taught by Jon Green, Director of Education & Training for the Massachusetts Gun Owners Action League (GOAL), this 3-hour long seminar reviews and explains both state and federal laws and regulations in simple-to-understand language. The seminar will clarify applicable Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) and Code of Massachusetts Regulations (CMR) regarding;

  • Firearm definitions
  • Firearm purchase and sale
  • Proper and legal firearm and ammunition possession, transport, and storage
  • Record-keeping requirements
  • Recommended best practices for firearm owners

The cost is $15.00 per person for Lenox Sportsmen’s Club members and their guests and $20.00 for non-members.

Light snacks and soft drinks will be provided. Every attendee will receive a complimentary copy of the Massachusetts Gun Owners Action League firearms law booklet.  A License to Carry Firearms (LTC) is not required to attend this seminar.

Pre-Registration is required for this event. People can register on the LSC website.

Hunter education course

Basic hunter education is mandatory for all first-time adult hunters. The Lenox Sportsmen’s Club has scheduled a Hunter Education course at its clubhouse with MassWildlife on August 20. These classes fill up quickly, so if you are interested in taking it, call MassWildlife at (508) 389-7830.

Summer wild turkey survey

Help MassWildlife with its annual summer wild turkey count. Every year from June 1 to August 31, wild turkey reports from the public help their biologists determine productivity, compare long-term reproductive success, and estimate fall harvest potential. Reports are welcome from all regions of Massachusetts, from the most rural communities to more densely-populated areas. The summer wild turkey survey is a fun way for people to connect with nature while contributing valuable data to MassWildlife biologists.

 

You are encouraged to report wild turkey sightings in your area.  Contribute to the annual wild turkey survey by reporting observations of hens (female turkeys), poults (newly-hatched turkeys), jakes (juvenile males), and toms (adult males). Click onto the MassWildlife web page to learn how to tell the difference between male and female turkeys.

Turkey sightings can now be submitted online using a form which can be downloaded.   The form has been updated for the 2023 to include a map that allows collection of more accurate location information. Users have the option to zoom to their location on the map or type in an address.

Carp Palooza

This year’s Carp Palooza event will take place on Onota Lake in Pittsfield on June 24. There will be cash prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, pending the number of entries.  Sign-up will take place at the boat ramp between 1:00 and 3:00 pm.  Fishing ends at 12:00 am.

 

Two person teams, $50 per team.  Awards will be given for the best combined weight, 2 carp.  Lunker Pool optional at $20 per team.  Championship belts will be awarded to the first-place team.  There will also be a 50/50 raffle.

 

For information on the event, contact Joshua Christman at (413) 770-7111.

 

 

A note from the Environmental Police

According to Lieutenant Tara Carlow of the Massachusetts Environmental Police, officers are patrolling by boat and ATV for violations as well as increasing their presence in the DCR parks as their campgrounds and day use areas become busier.  They can always reach out to us for violations or to chat.

Recently they were out with the trout stocking trucks on a couple of occasions and one officer was at the youth stocking event which was recently held at Onota Lake.

So, boaters and anglers take note.

More deer/deer hunting information disclosed

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Last week’s column dealt with a report DFW Moose and Deer Biologist Martin Freehan made at the June 22, 2022 Meeting of the Fish & Wildlife Board.  In addition to the amendment to the Antlerless Deer Permit allocations, he reported the following:

He and other staff continue to work with communities to open more private and municipal lands for hunting, particularly of deer. He noted that the Town of Harvard Conservation Commission has doubled the number of properties open to hunting and that the Town of Brewster approved a 3-week December Archery season in the Punkhorn area, as two examples of recent fruits of those efforts.

He also reported that MassWildlife collaborated with the USDA Wildlife Services to test deer for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and active-virus during the 2021 Shotgun and Primitive Arms deer seasons as part of a national surveillance program in 28 states.

He reported that MassWildlife staff sampled 558 deer (just over the USDA’s goal of 500 for the state): 86 were positive for antibodies, with the Delta detected as the active variant. He also stated that he will be working again this fall with the USDA on further surveillance.

Mr. Feehan reported that he is planning to disseminate a survey to hunters this summer, in coordination with the USGS’s Coop Unit at UMass/Amherst, to measure baseline knowledge about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and about misinformation that might be circulating. This will allow staff to develop an effective communication plan to improve knowledge about CWD and guide future management. He stated that MassWildlife has also joined the SOP4CWD project, to collaborate with states across the country to predict areas of high risk for new invasions of CWD.

Possible Expanded Archery Hunting Season

Feehan commented on the DFW analyses of past deer harvests by sex to show the trends in a couple of sample zones, He then outlined a proposal for the Board’s consideration to unify the Archery deer season statewide by extending the Archery season 2 weeks earlier in zones 1-9 (which includes our area) to match that already established in zones 10-14, with the change to begin with the 2023 season.

He explained that this proposed change simplifies the regulations, the seasons, and enforcement; would allow hunters to spread out their effort and therefore creates more hunting opportunity; and addresses feedback staff receives from many Archery hunters wanting more hunting opportunity.

Discussing the impact of the existing extended Archery season in zones 10-14, Mr. Feehan reported that the extended season in zones 10-14 did not increase the harvest beyond the established trajectory but rather redistributed the harvest based on hunter preference and was very popular with Archery hunters who don’t want to overlap with pheasant season.

Feehan closed his presentation with a request to the Board to endorse the ADP allocations and to direct staff to develop specific regulations that would extend the Archery season statewide to match the current extended season in zones 10-14 and take those proposed regulations to a public hearing for public feedback and comments.

The Board approved the development of specific draft regulations to extend the Archery deer season statewide and take them to a public hearing to solicit comments.

Youth Pheasant Hunt Program

The Massachusetts Youth Pheasant Hunt Program was developed by MassWildlife to provide an opportunity for Hunter Education graduates aged 12 to 17 to practice firearms safety, develop shooting skills, and participate in a special pheasant hunt under the guidance of experienced adult hunters.

The program is divided into multiple parts:

  • Seminar and Range Practice: Participants get hands-on instruction in shotgun shooting fundamentals and firearm safety, learn upland hunting basics, and focus on how to have a safe and fun hunt.
  • Pheasant Hunt: Participants get to experience a real pheasant hunt under the supervision of an experienced hunter on 1 of the 6 Saturdays prior to the regular pheasant season. This year, the pheasant hunting season starts on October 15, 2022.

Requirements

  • Be between the ages of 12 to 17

Steps

  1. Make sure you meet all the requirements above
  2. Register for the Programby August 31, 2022
  3. Complete the Seminar and Range Practice
  4. Have a great day hunting pheasants.  Please note, all other regular pheasant hunting regulations apply including bag limits, hunting implements, hunter orange requirements,

In our area, the Lee Sportsmen’s Association has tentatively scheduled such a course on September 24 from 9:00 am to 11:00 am and on October 8 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at its clubhouse on Fairview Street in Lee.

The youth pheasant program is designed to provide young hunters with specialized pheasant hunting training and instruction, as well as reinforce what they learned in Basic Hunter Education. Young hunters will have the opportunity to practice firearms safety, develop shooting skills, and participate in a special pheasant hunt under the guidance of a safe, experienced adult hunter. This program, held by Lee Sportsmen’s Association, is more than just a day in the field pheasant hunting and is divided into multiple parts including hands-on instruction in shotgun shooting fundamentals, a pheasant seminar, and a mentored pheasant hunt. In addition to the seminar and hunt, participants are required to attend mandatory range days. The date and time of these range days will be based on participant’s availability

Keeping with the LSA and pheasants, the Board reported that the pheasant pen located adjacent to the Main Clubhouse has been stocked with about 400-500 pheasants, which LSA raises for the state of Massachusetts.  Every year, MassWildlife stocks an average of 40,000 pheasants on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and other lands open to the public.  These birds are stocked for recreational hunting and are paid for by revenue from license fees; however, the cost of raising the pheasants is the responsibility of LSA, and the caretakers are all Club volunteers.  Members are asked to not allow their dog(s) to wander unattended over near the pen, and if you witness any suspicious or abnormal activity in/on/near the pen, to please contact President Doug Frank at (413) 822-0720 as soon as possible.

 

New pheasant hunting regulations take effect this year 

 

Remember, a Pheasant/Quail Permit is now required for resident and non-resident hunters, there is no season bag limit (2-bird daily limit), and hens can be hunted statewide. Registration for Saturday hunting at Martin Burns WMA is no longer required. The permit this year is $4.00 for residents and $6.00 for non-residents.  Don’t forget!

 

Gun Safety Course

 

Pete’s Gun Shop is holding a LIVE FIRE NRA & Massachusetts State Police Certified LTC Safety Course. This will be a one day all inclusive, live fire class on Sunday September 11 at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club. The class starts at 9:00 am.

 

Call the shop at (413) 743-0780 to inquire availability of a seat. A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your seat at the time of registration. They do accept credit cards in person at the shop or by phone.

 

This course is a live fire class where time is spent at the range and you get to shoot. You are also given an NRA Basic Pistol Safety textbook which is included in the class cost. This is to qualify MA residents and non-residents alike for the MA License To Carry or FID Card. This will be a hands-on, LIVE FIRE course. You will also receive a $10 gift certificate to Pete’s Gun Shop in appreciation for taking the course. The cost is $100 and covers use of the range firearms, ammo, safety gear, class materials, certificates, and the NRA Safety Textbook.

 

Interested parties are asked to pre-register by calling or stopping in at Pete’s Gun Shop at 413-743-0780, as space is limited. This live fire course fills up very quickly so call or stop in early to pre-register.

 

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Richmond Pond book is a gem

In a joint project, the Richmond Pond Association and the Richmond Historical Commission produced a book entitled, The Gem of Richmond:  A History of Richmond Pond. The editor was Ken Kelly, of Lenox and Richmond, the attractive cover was designed by Valeri Reynolds and Jennifer Coughlin.  Many writers contributed to the book and it was published by Troy Book Makers. Although the 160-page book is soft cover, it and the ensuing pages are top quality, glossy paper, capable of being passed on from generation to generation.

There is something in this book for everyone, especially if you are a local history buff. It covers the period from the Holocene Glacial Retreat, some 12,000 years ago to present day. Richmond Pond (formerly called South Pond) began as a 98-acre glacial pond, scraped from the limestone and marble bedrock by advancing glaciers thousands of years ago. At the time, it was about 30 feet deep near the center. Over the years, a dam was built, breached, raised and rebuilt a couple of times arriving at the point where it is today, encompassing 218 acres and over 50 feet deep. Some 120 acres of what was prime farmland now comprises part of the lake floor.

It is believed that the first inhabitants in the area were Paleo-Indians, and later the Mohicans. According to the book, by the late 1700’s, the pond would have been in mesotrophic condition (medium amounts of nutrients present). As the nutrients, temperature change and oxygen levels all worked in balance, the pond became a great habitat for fish and wildlife. In the 1700’s the settlers arrived and built the first dam for industry use, and the process of eutrophication (increasing plant growth) began.

The book covers everything that happened after that – the farming and later selling of surrounding farmland, the building of nearby railroad tracks on the western side of the pond, the conversion of various sections of land into camps, residence areas, beaches and a boat ramp, and the people who were directly involved along the way.

Chapter Three of the book deals with the fish and wildlife. In the mid to late 1860’s large catches of pickerel took place, and “most of the fish were of good size.” Around that time, non-native black bass (largemouths) and white bass (white perch?) were stocked. With the 50+ feet depth of the lake and its cold water in some areas, rainbow, brown and brook trout were stocked and they seem to thrive there. Now, there are 10 species of freshwater fish found in that pond, most of which were at one time or another legally stocked.

But not all. In 1979 a 20 lbs. 42.5 inch northern pike was caught out of it by Lois Kelly (Ken’s mom). According to Ken, it was probably the result of “sleuth private stockings” or “bait bucket introductions.”  The book illustrates a couple of pictures of other successful anglers.

It makes reference to The History of the County of Berkshire, Massachusetts published in 1829, which included a listing of animals, fish, birds, reptiles and plants that existed near Richmond Pond in those days. With the exception of the wolf, lynx and mountain lion all are still there. Wild turkey had disappeared by then, but as you know the State has reintroduced them and they currently are thriving. The book lists an impressive array of migrating waterfowl that visit the pond annually.

There are chapters entitled “Old Times” and “Early Settlers.” They mention, in quite detail, the early inhabitants, (Mohicans) and how they were displaced by European colonization and what they in turn did with the land. One chapter addressed the expansions of the pond over the years, another the effects of the railroads.

The chapter covering ice harvesting is quite interesting. Gray haired folks like myself well remember the blocks of ice delivered by the ice man who put them into our “ice boxes”. That was before the Frigidaire came onto the scene. There are pictures of people hand sawing ice blocks, of ice chutes used for loading the blocks onto the nearby railroad and of ice houses, one being the Shaker Village Ice House.

Some eight summer camps existed on that lake at different times, starting in the 1890’s and the book covers each one.  Ah!  The memories of local teenage boys fishing and swimming the lake back then, always trying to scheme a plan to penetrate the perimeter of the girls’ camps.

The book covers the various community associations that currently exist there as well as some of its notable business neighbors.

There is so much more I could mention about the book but I don’t want to give away all of the secrets contained in it. Suffice it to say that it is a good read and I highly recommend it.  Ken, and his team did a great job.

I understand that the book is in its 3rd printing already. It can be purchased at Bartlett’s, Balderdash Cellars, Shaker Mill Books, Hancock Shaker Village and The Bookstore in Lenox.

At $20, it’s a steal.

Spring Fishing Derby

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club is sponsoring a spring fishing derby on Sunday, May 22 at the Stockbridge Bowl Boat Ramp.  It will run from dawn until 3:00 pm.  Cash prizes of $100 will be awarded to the lucky anglers who catch the heaviest trout or salmon, pickerel, bass and bullhead.  There will be free lures for all kids 12 and under.  The pre-registration fee is $10.00 and post-registration is $15.00.

Tickets are available at:  Minkler Insurance Agency at 31 Main Street, Stockbridge or (w) 413-644-3590, (h) 413-298-4630 or contact any club member.  Official rules may be picked up at the boat ramp.

Trout Stocking

I was away last week and was not able to obtain a listing of local waters stocked before I left.  To find out the most recent waters stocked, click onto: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/trout-stocking-report.

Endangered Species Day coming up

Join MassWildlife on May 20 to recognize the 432 plants and animals that are considered rare in Massachusetts. These rare species play an important role in keeping the Commonwealth’s natural communities thriving. MassWildlife’s Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program (NHESP) focuses on conserving rare species and their habitats throughout Massachusetts.

On Endangered Species Day and every day of the year, you can make a difference in rare species conservation.  Here’s how:

  • Report rare species – Help MassWildlife monitor rare plants and animals by telling them when you see the species. If you have information on the location of a rare species or a vernal pool and would like to help NHESP keep its database current, submit your observations through the Heritage Hub.
  • Donate to support rare species – You can make a big impact by donating directly to NHESP. You might consider making a donation of $4.32 on May 20 to honor the 432 animals and plants on the MA Endangered Species Act List. All money donated goes towards conserving the rare animals and plants that call Massachusetts home. Your donation goes toward equipment and services needed to give these species a fighting chance.

Massachusetts Pistol License Course

On Sunday, May 22, from 8:30am until 1:30pm the Lee Sportsmen’s Association will be sponsoring a Massachusetts Pistol License Course which qualifies participants to apply for a Massachusetts FID or LTC, plus pistol licenses in Connecticut, Florida, etc.  This comprehensive one-day course includes information for federal and state firearm laws, operation and safe handling of firearms, shooting fundamentals, care and cleaning, concealed carry methods, a live fire session on the LSA Indoor Pistol Range, and much more.

Course fee is $160 due in cash on the day of the course. State license application fees and processing are not included. Participants will receive a course certificate, application forms, other resources and supporting documents.  Participants will also receive new Walker’s earmuffs and safety glasses that are theirs to keep.  Club membership applications will be available at the course.

To register, visit www.NRApistolinstructor.com and use the Contact form; providing your full name including middle initial, date of birth, course date, course selection, address, telephone, and email contact information.  For questions or concerns, and if you require assistance to register for a course, contact Robert McDermott at (413) 232-7700 or email robmcdermott@verizon.net.

2020 marks 30 years of the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act

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Through the implementation of MESA, MassWildlife’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) conserves and protects the most vulnerable native animal and plant species of Massachusetts and the habitats upon which they depend. Currently, there are more than 400 native plants, vertebrates, and invertebrates that are officially listed as Endangered, Threatened, or of Special Concern.
Many rare species have benefited from the protection afforded under MESA and the work of NHESP over the years, including the restoration and conservation of several notable species such as the peregrine falcon, bald eagle, and northern red-bellied cooter. However, there is still a lot to do and in the face of habitat loss, emerging diseases, invasive species, climate change, and other threats, this work is more important than ever!
NHESP staff are diligently working to recover rare species and their habitats. NHESP’s conservation efforts include targeted restoration and active management of habitats; collection, management, and analysis of statewide biological data; conducting regulatory reviews; and the development of educational programming, publications, and conservation tools to connect residents with nature and help guide state and partner conservation priorities.
NHESP’s work is primarily funded through grants, regulatory review fees, and donations from supportive citizens. Donations to NHESP are received through a voluntary check-off o
the state income tax form and direct donations throughout the year. NHESP donations go directly into the Endangered Wildlife Conservation Fund, which can only be used for administering NHESP programs.
These donations are critical to ensure the dedicated NHESP staff can continue to perform important conservation work, including field research and surveys, regulatory review, habitat management, land protection, and education. Without such support, NHESP cannot protect, manage, and restore the Commonwealth’s most imperiled animals and plants and the sensitive communities and habitats on which they depend. In addition to donations, citizens can help by reporting the location of a rare species or vernal pool to help NHESP keep its database current.
MassWildlife suggests that you go to Mass.gov/30MESA throughout the year to learn about MESA and how you can support NHESP.

The pictures of the two adult bald eagles (beneficiaries of MESA/NHESP) were photographed by Mark Thorne of Pittsfield. He said that he went to Onota Lake for a couple hours on January 5 and easily found the adult pair that has been residing at the Point for the past several years. The male was sitting on the nest and went out a couple times to the west for sticks, and the female was a couple hundred feet away just watching a few people ice fishing on the lake. The eagles occasionally called to each other, and finally the male came over to roost with the female. Lots of preening and head scratching (tricky with those claws), but no other activity.

After a while the male got closer to the female, both calling loudly to each other, and Mark really thought they were going to mate. But he’ll never know because it was noon and he had to leave to do errands.

Before leaving, he got a good look at the leg bands colors/numbers and, to no surprise, it’s the same pair he had been watching in prior years. She is 18 years old this coming spring, and he’ll be 14. This year will be their 7th year together. Mark first identified her tag 9 years ago, but he’s sure she’s been here much longer.

Thank you, Mark for sharing the terrific picture.

Congratulations to the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club Skeet Team
According to the most recent SSC newsletter, the club won the coveted Tri-Club Championship this year, edging out Sheffield by 13 birds, and “leaving Lee in the rearview mirror.” After the Championship, the attendees enjoyed a delicious BBQ chicken dinner.
Basic Hunter Education courses being offered
By state law, if you are 18 years of age or older and you want to purchase your first-ever hunting license, you must complete a Basic Hunter Education course. Hunters 12 to 17 years of age must adhere to the regulations which are specific to their age. While minors are not mandated to complete a Basic Hunter Education, it is a prerequisite for certain youth programs and it allows minors 15 to 17 years of age to hunt without direct supervision.
In a Basic Hunter Education course, students receive instruction in the safe handling and storage of hunting arms and ammunition, hunting laws and ethics, care and handling of game, and wildlife conservation. Courses are typically 15 hours in length and are offered in different formats to meet the public’s needs. Students under the age of 18 will need a parent or legal guardian’s permission to attend this course. All courses are free of charge and open to the public.
The Cheshire Rod & Gun Club will be conducting a 6 session Hunter Education Course at its clubhouse on 310 Curran Road, Cheshire. The sessions will run Mondays and Fridays for three weeks from 6:00 to 9:00 pm on February 24, 28, and March 2, 6, 9 and 13.
To enroll, call (508) 389-7830.
Massachusetts Junior Conservation Camp
At the last Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) meeting, the delegates voted to sponsor two camperships this year to the Massachusetts Junior Conservation Camp (MJCC) one for a boy and one for a girl. The MJCC is a two-week program designed to teach teens between 13-17 years old various outdoor recreation skills as well as educate campers about conservation of natural resources and responsible use of the environment. (Click onto www.mass.gov/service-details/junior-conservation-camp for more information).
This year’s dates are from August 2 to August 14. The camp tuition is $1,000 for the full two weeks and covers lodging expenses, food, and activities.
The total cost to send both kids is $2,000. Fortunately, $1,000 of that amount was donated by: $500 from BCLS Vice President Bob McCarthy (he was awarded that amount by the National Grange for his civic duty in Williamstown) and $500 from Whitetails Unlimited. The remaining $1,000 will be picked up by the BCLS. (In the past, the late George “Gige” Darey sponsored one or two kids a year.)
If you know a kid who is interested in the outdoors and who truly wants to attend the camp, have him/her send a letter to Berkshire County League of Sportsmen, 150 Phelps Ave., North Adams, MA 01247 explaining why he/she wants to attend.

Incidentally, there a couple of other area local sportsmen’s clubs that also sponsor kids for the MJCC. If the League has too many applicants, I’m sure it will pass the letters on to them.

Upcoming Ice fishing derbies
On Saturday, February 8, the Ashfield Rod & Gun will be holding its 29th Annual Children’s Ice Fishing Derby on Ashfield Lake. It is free and runs from 8:00am to 12:00 pm. All school ages are welcomed to participate. Prizes will be awarded to fish caught legally during derby hours and checked in at derby headquarters (The Ashfield Lake House). After the fishing derby there will be a spaghetti dinner held at the Sanderson Academy. The price is $5.00 for adults and children eat for free. Following the dinner there will be a presentation given by Tom Ricardi on birds of prey.
The 34th Annual Jimmy Fund Ice Fishing Derby will be held the following day, Sunday, February 9 at the Frank Controy Pavilion at Onota Lake, Pittsfield from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm. Tickets are available at the Onota Boat Livery (413)443-1366 and Maces Marine @ (413)447-7512. Admission: Adults $15.00, Kids $5.00. Trophies and prizes for kids, young adults and adults. Free with ticket will be dogs, burgers, chowder and soft drinks.
I am including these ice fishing derbies a week early in order to have more space available for an interesting column coming up next week. On February 2, 1954 there was some exciting ice fishing news that became the talk of the community. If you were around, do you remember it? If not, can you guess what it was? Make sure to read next week’s column.

Large black bear taken in Sheffield. Is it a state record?

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It was a pleasant afternoon on November 5 and after work, Mike DiGiovanni of Sheffield decided to go hunting for bear on a local farmland. He hunted out of a tree stand with a crossbow. (Due to a permanent disability, he had permit to hunt with a crossbow). After a while he saw a deer (doe) in the nearby field acting oddly and then ran off. Then Mike saw why. A bear approached the field, hugged the edge of it and headed right toward him. He held off his shot until the bear was about 10 yards away and let the bolt fly. The first bolt hit him high in the shoulder and the second shot was a lung shot and down he went.
He knew it was a decent sized boar, perhaps around 300 lbs, but it wasn’t until he climbed down from the tree stand and approached it that he realized how big it was. Mike described himself as being “dumbfounded”. Then came the realization of what to do now. He took a picture on his cell phone and sent it to his wife Molly saying, “I’m going to be home a little bit later than expected”.
Then, he called a couple friends while Molly called his brother-in-law for help. Mike also reached out to the farmer for an extra set of hands. The farmer had a 4-wheeler to help him get it out of the woods and into the field. Dragging a bear of this size is no small feat and the more help he could get, the better. It took 6 guys, the farmer’s 4- wheeler and a pick-up truck. Thank goodness it was only 10 feet from the field, said Mike, because if it was deeper in the woods, there was no way to get him out…..not without equipment. With permission from the farmer, they were able to drive a truck into the field to get to him.
Can you imagine what it was like lifting that bear onto Mike’s truck?
After getting the bear out of there, they weighed it at a gravel bed truck scale and the weight they came up with was 540 lbs. Roughly a day and a half after, they got it to the DFW Headquarters in Dalton and it weighed 535 lbs. on those scales. Perhaps the day delay could have made the 5 lbs. difference (drying out). Anyway, the official weight stands at 535 lbs. Mike has been bear hunting for 12 to 14 years and never got a bear this large.
One of the biologists at the DFW headquarters guessed it weighed around 640 to 650 lbs. live weight and estimated the age as being between 7 and 12 years old, but it could be older. They can’t know until a tooth is sent to the DFW labs for analysis.
Is it a state record? Not sure. Massachusetts doesn’t keep official state bear records; however, they do maintain a database of the largest bears on record. I am not aware if there has ever been a larger bear checked in with DFW so it is quite possible that it is the record. If the DFW wants to establish a state record for black bears, may I suggest that they start with this one.
Mike said that he lost some of the meat due to the weather, but will salvage as much as he can to eat. “It’s quite good”, he said, “if I didn’t like the meat, I would not shoot a bear.”
He is going to get a whole rug mount done by Kevins’s Taxidermy of Middlebury, CT. Incidentally, the taxidermist measured the hide from nose to the tail at 86 inches and girth at 65 inches. The unofficial Green Score skull came in at 21 ¼ inches. To make the Pope & Young record book, it has to be 18 inches; however, cross bow kills are not recognized.
The farmer was ecstatic over getting rid of that bear. Not only because he kept destroying his crops, but also once a week the boar was flipping dumpsters over on his property.
Mike met a couple of neighbors who live on the same street and they were very grateful that that bear is gone. They were intimidated by the size of it. Bears are opportunistic, wherever the food is, that is where they are going to be, whether it is at your house or somewhere in the woods. They are going to eat whatever they want and you are not going to stop them, said Mike. He has heard stories of bears taking livestock, goats, pigs and all sorts of animals (not to mention the deer fawns).
Mike was adamant that the names of the helpers be included in this column for without them, he could not have gotten the boar out of the woods. (They were: Jameason Russin, Tony Bleau, Kolby Bleau, Dave Ullrich and the farm owner Bob)
That feat was” something I’ll never forget”, said Mike.
A Patriotic Turkey Shoot

The Murphy-Leary American Post 298 and Adams-Budz VFW Post 8183 of Housatonic will be jointly sponsoring a Turkey Shoot at the Great Barrington Fish and Game Association Club, 338 Long Pond Road, Great Barrington on December 1 starting at 12:00 noon. The purpose of this event is to raise funds to help the organizations foster strong national security, provide help for disabled and needy veterans and their families and promote Americanism by educating our communities in patriotism.

Also, they sponsor and provide scholarships to civic programs such as the Boys/Girls State Program, Student Trooper Program and to local students. In addition, their fund-raising initiatives also allow them to offer academic and vocational scholarships to selected graduates from local High Schools.

The turkey shoot is billed as a great opportunity to come out and compete for a turkey, pork, steak, beef, or maybe a money prize as well as enjoy a barbecued hamburger, hot dog, fries, and refreshments. You don’t even have to shoot to win a prize. There are many people that will be there who will shoot for you.

You are invited to come out and have some fun with family and friends in one of the most picturesque locations in the Berkshires. In addition to having some old-time outdoor fun, you will be helping our Housatonic American Legion and VFW to raise money so that they may give back to the youth in our community.

MassWildlife’s Habitat Management Grant Program

Thirteen municipalities, conservation organizations, and private landowners were recently awarded a total of $341,396 for habitat management projects to improve habitat for rare or declining populations of wildlife. The grants will fund 13 wildlife habitat improvement projects totaling 698 acres in 14 communities across the state.
In its fifth year, MassWildlife’s Habitat Management Grant Program provides financial assistance to private and municipal landowners of conserved lands to improve and manage habitat for wildlife deemed in greatest conservation need and certain game species. The projects are also designed to complement ongoing habitat management efforts on state lands and expand opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor recreation.
“Fish and wildlife habitat management for both rare and common species and to enhance wildlife-related recreation opportunities is a top priority for MassWildlife,” said Dr. Mark Tisa, Director of the DFW. “Because 80% of Massachusetts is in private ownership, working with committed municipal and private landowners is a no-brainer. These grants help protect everyone’s investment in wildlife, habitat, and the enjoyment of outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, or watching wildlife.”
Congratulations to the following local recipients of the 2019 MassWildlife Habitat Management Grants:
• Great Barrington: The Nature Conservancy was awarded $28,576 to create and improve old field and shrubland habitats at the Schenob Brook Preserve.
• Lenox: The Town of Lenox was awarded $26,810 to remove the invasive hardy kiwi plant at Kennedy Park and Mass Audubon’s Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary.
• South Lee: South Lee Associates was awarded $13,655 for efforts to control invasive species on Housatonic River properties.

Apprehensions over the new proposed coyote hunting regulations

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Apprehensions over the new proposed coyote hunting regulations
Last week, this blog listed the proposed new MA coyote hunting regulations. For a review of them, click onto https://www.mass.gov.

The MA Fish &Wildlife Board voted 6 to 1 in favor of forwarding them for public hearing. Only Board member Robert Durand had opposed the motion because the Board had not yet been provided with the parameters of the regulation.

He had other issues, too. He pointed out to the Board that most states won’t touch “wanton waste” because it is hard to enforce and leaves it up to the discretion of law enforcement. He noted that the state of ME excludes coyotes from their wanton waste provision and the VT Commissioner said at a legislative hearing that wanton waste regs are “fraught with peril”.

Board member Brandi Van Roo is reported to have said that (banning) coyote hunting contests means standing up for a core value of the organization (DFW). But Durand reminded the Board that that the core constituency are the sportsmen and women of the Commonwealth, who pay for MassWildlife, and yet they continue to put in more regulations that hurt this constituency. “If it’s not broke don’t fix it. While I have tremendous respect for the (DFW) staff, they too can get it wrong. I believe this is the case.”, he said. Bob is not alone in this belief.

Bob Durand is no babe in the woods when it comes to environmental and sportsmen’s issues. He formerly served as MA Executive Secretary of Environmental Affairs from 1999 to 2003. He is highly respected in the sportsmen community and his opinions carry a lot of weight.

Because of the 4 listening sessions held across the state (none of them in the Berkshires, by the way) sportsmen knew that coyote hunts would probably be banned. What they didn’t know was that they could be made lawbreakers (wanton waste segment) for doing what they believed was a good thing, reducing the numbers of the coyotes thereby giving the deer, snowshoe hares, partridge and other critters a better chance for survival.

Sportsmen are aware of wanton waste and are taught the importance of ethics in the basic hunting education course. Of course, hunters shouldn’t shoot a duck, deer or other game animal for no reason and leave it in the woods. Give them credit for that at least. But when it comes to predators, that is a different matter. If they see a pack of coyotes chasing a doe and her fawn, for example, chances are good that they will take steps to protect those deer. And I suspect that they are not about to stop their day in the field to drag the animal out and check it in. If the State is going to ban coyote hunts, then ban them, but don’t make criminals of the good intentioned hunters.

The definition of “wanton waste” that I am aware of states “to intentionally waste something negligently, inappropriately for no apparent reason.” And the term is usually associated with edible food – deer, ducks, pheasants, rabbits, etc. In the coyote example used above, it is doubtful that hunters consider that wanton waste, because they killed that animal for a reason….to save another animal. Perhaps many, if not most, hunters would agree with that. I personally don’t believe the coyote hunts came about for any reason other than to relieve the deer herd from being decimated. Any prize winnings are negligible.

I am not a lawyer, but if I was, I would have a field day in court arguing this wanton waste issue.

So how does one sell the notion of wanton waste to the public? That’s easy. Tell them that the deer population doesn’t need the help from the hunter; that coyotes don’t adversely affect the herd, that coyotes don’t chase down and kill healthy adult deer. Well, try telling that to an experienced hunter or someone who owns or lives near a field and frequently sees the carnage for themselves. Our observations in the woods and fields yield different conclusions than DFW’s.

MassWildlife seems to have a handle on the numbers of deer and coyotes that are in MA They feel that the coyote populations are stable, healthy, and abundant with an estimated statewide population of between 9,500 and 11,500 animals. They estimate that there are 95,000 deer in Massachusetts. (Probably the vast majority of them are in the Eastern part of MA where hunting is not allowed in some towns). Each year tens of thousands of antlerless deer permits are issued there to try to control the herd size. There aren’t those kinds of numbers here in the Western District, especially in Wildlife Zones 2 and 4.

But when it comes to the estimated number of fawns born each year, DFW is mum. All that is said is that annually, biologists estimate that coyotes kill about 20–30% of them. That is meaningless unless you know how many fawns are born each year. Does a herd of 95,000 produce15,000 fawns each year? I don’t know, but DFW should. Assuming it is 15,000, then are we talking about a coyote kill of 3,000 to 5,000 fawns a year? Could it be that DFW doesn’t want to shock the general public with such numbers of fawns killed? Then add the kills made by bears which may also be quite high and the kills of adult deer and you are talking some high numbers.

And what about the coyote effect on the snowshoe hare population. They have nearly been decimated here in the Berkshires. Many hunters believe that there is a direct correlation of the rise in the population of the coyote to the decline of the hares.

I have particular concerns of coyotes attacking my beagles while rabbit hunting (happened on 3 separate occasions over the last 30 years) and sought clarification from Board Member Steve Sears. His understanding is that if I shoot a coyote after my dog, I am protecting my property, which the regulations permit. I hope he is right.

But, according to DFW WD Supervisor Andrew Madden, if I shoot a coyote trying to chase down and kill a deer and/or a fawn, it is legal to shoot it, during the combined coyote and deer hunting season, but it must be removed from the woods and checked in, with an explanation as to what I will do with it.

And what if I didn.t report it and left it in the woods? What are the penalties? I see no mention of them in the proposed new regulations. Will there be financial penalties? Will my gun be confiscated? My FID card?

After the Board voted to go to public hearing, DFW Director Mark Tisa is quoted by the Worcester Telegraph-Gazette as saying “The proposed regulations would make the State one of the leaders in banning hunting contests”. The article did not say that he was only referring to coyote hunts. My immediate concern was about the bunny hunts that we have here in the Berkshires. The general public may not be aware that the rabbit meat from these hunts is not wasted but rather brought home to eat or donated to an organization, such as the Adams Outdoor for Youth, that puts on game suppers in order to raise funds to support youth programs.

On two occasions, I emailed Director Tisa to see if he was misquoted or wanted to clarify that statement, but to date I have received no response. Could the bunny hunts be the next target? Big buck contests? And later fishing derbies?

Space does not allow me to express more concerns regarding this proposed regulation. There is supposed to be a public hearing sometime in September with a date to be announced. I encourage sportsmen to weigh in on this whether or not they hunt coyotes.

One parting comment of this subject. A former high-ranking state environmental official commented to me that Gige would be “turning in his grave” over this. He was referring to the late George “Gige” Darey of Lenox, the long-time Chairman of the MA Fish & Wildlife Board.

There is no question that Gige was a strong advocate for the coyote, fighting hard to not allow year-round hunting of them (unlike some neighboring states) and supporting DFW’s findings. The lively monthly discussions between him and Berkshire County League of Sportsmen Board member Robert McCarthy, who is not a big fan of coyotes, were legendary, with neither giving an inch.

But Gige also had a very high regard for the outdoor sportsmen and always had their backs. He fought hard to protect their rights. He was particularly proud that he had their trust.

I’ve got to believe that he would have handled this coyote issue much differently.

Firearms Class

The Lenox Sportsmen’s Club will host an LTC – UTAH and Multi State Firearms class on Sunday, August 11th from 10:00 am to 2:00 p.m. If you or someone you know would like to register for this class contact Tom Nadolny at tnadolny1@gmail.com or call him at 413-822-6451.

Fishing Derby
The Berkshire Hatchery Foundation in Hartsville-New Marlborough is having its next free children’s fishing derby on Saturday, August 10 from 9:00 to 10:30 am at its lower pond. Children aged 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Conte banquet honors four

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There was a nice crowd at the Silvio O. Conte Awards Banquet at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club last Saturday night to honor the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) 2018 award winners. Past President, Mark Jester, did his usual yeoman’s job as emcee. As readers may recall from my column of March 31, 2019, four people were selected to receive the awards: Virginia Dubois, Jason Sniezek, Jane Winn and Lou Robesch. There were write-ups of each person’s achievements in that article.

The banquet was also dedicated in honor of George “Gige” Darey who passed away in December, 2018. There was a moment of silence for Gige before the festivities began.

MA Fish & Game Commissioner Ron Amidon gave a short talk about the statewide trout stocking program and the great shape the fish are in this year. He mentioned proposed legislation of interest to the outdoor sportsmen, particularly the “archery setback” change. This change would allow DFW to manage wildlife in places where it hasn’t been able to do so up to now. Excessive deer density is not a problem here in the Berkshires but from Rte. 495 east there is a lot of wildlife out there and (DFW) is having a difficult time managing it because of the existing setbacks. If they are able to change the setbacks to 250 feet in many of the eastern communities it will help control the deer herd as well as open up huntable land.

Virginia Dubois of Lee received the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award for support, dedication and preservation of the outdoor shooting sports, hunting and fishing. She thanked the BCLS, the Lee Sportsmen’s Association officers, Board of Directors, all of the coaches and the Gala Fundraising committee. ”I couldn’t do what I enjoy doing so much without all of your help and support. I truly get back much more than I give when I see the friendships that I have made and see the smiles on the children’s faces at the wonderful programs that we are so grateful to be able to offer at the LSA.

Jason Sniezek of Adams received the Outstanding Achievement Award for his efforts to introduce the youth of Berkshire County to the vast wonders of the outdoors. He thanked the BCLS, CR&G and particularly Mark Jester and Karen Kruszyna who were instrumental in introducing the National Archery in the School (NAIS)program to Hoosac Valley. He said that this program is a very rewarding class to teach and the students embraced it and enjoyed getting out into the woods. Discussing some of the highlights of the class was a very rewarding class for him and he hopes he can continue that in the future and make it better.

Jane Winn of Pittsfield received the Lifetime Achievement Award. (The award was not just for Jane but also for her hubby Bruce, for BEAT and its team of volunteers). It was awarded for the years of work preserving open space, majestic ridge lines and vulnerable wetlands and streams within Berkshire County. Jane, in her acceptance speech, said that “this award means so much to me. BEAT’s mission is protecting the environment for wildlife and I think a lot of the times environmental groups don’t really understand your (outdoor sportsmen’s) depth of support of wildlife and the part that you all do”.

Incidentally, much of Jane’s staff that evening was at the other end of the state accepting an environmental action award. If I may interject, this shows the importance of BEAT and the wonderful work it does…………to be receiving awards from environmentalists in the eastern and from sportsmen in the western part of the state on the same evening. That really says something about the importance of the work they are doing.

Louis Robesch of Pittsfield received the Sportsman of the Year Award for his lifelong dedication and leadership to the sportsmen and the youth of Massachusetts. In introducing Lou Robesch, Mark Jester commented thatLou has been a hunter education instructor for 45 years teaching in Pittsfield and other locations. In accepting the award, Lou thanked “all of the Berkshire County sportsmen for presenting me this award. I really appreciate it very much and accept it with the most gratitude”.

Trout stocking

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week. Rivers and Brooks: Clesson Brook in Ashfield and Buckland, South River and Swift River in Ashfield, Potash Brook in Russell and Blandford, Westfield River (East Branch) in Savoy, Windsor, Cummington and Chesterfield; Westfield River (Middle Branch) in Cummington, Worthington, Middlefield and Huntington, Westfield River (Mainstem) in Huntington, Montgomery and Russel; Swift River in Cummington and Goshen, Housatonic River in Hinsdale and Dalton, Wahconah Falls Brook in Dalton, Stones Brook in Goshen, Windsor Brook in Hinsdale, Hop Brook in Lee and Tyringham, Goose Pond Brook in Lee; Housatonic River (C&R) in Lee and Stockbridge, Trout Brook in Peru, Buck and Clam Rivers in Sandisfield, Larrywaug Brook in Stockbridge, Windsor Brook in Windsor and Trout Brook in Worthington. Lakes: Pontoosuc, Greenwater Pond, Laurel Lake, York Lake and Norwich Pond in Huntington.
Fishing Derby
The Berkshire Hatchery Foundation in Hartsville-New Marlborough is having a free children’s fishing derby next Saturday, May 11 from 9:00 to 10:30 am at its lower pond. Children aged 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Wild Acres Fishing Derby

The free Wild Acres Fishing Derby for children ages 14 and under will take place on Saturday, May 11 from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. Bait will be provided, and a limited amount of fishing poles will be available for use on a first come, first serve basis to those who do not own one.

Trophies will be awarded at 12:00 pm to those who catch the largest fish (length & weight).

The event will be hosted by the City of Pittsfield Parks and Recreation Commission with volunteer support provided by the Onota Fishing Club which will assist with dressing fish, providing fishing tips and techniques, baiting, etc. Anyone from the community who needs accommodations for handicapped vehicle access is asked to contact (413) 822-2193.

Art of Concealed Carry
On Thursday, May 9 from 5:00 to 9:30pm, the Lenox Sportsmen’s Club will be hosting a Gun Owner’s Action League (GOAL) training entitled the Art of Conceal Carry. Conducted in the Main Clubhouse upstairs, it costs $90, and you must be a GOAL member to attend. To become a GOAL member or renew your membership, click onto https://goal.org.

The Art of Concealed Carry is a 4-hour concealed handgun seminar designed for individuals who are currently carrying a concealed firearm or those who are considering firearms for self-defense. Please contact Shawn Sullivan at ssullee@icloud.com with any questions or for more information.

Coyote Listening Session

In response to concerns about coyote hunting contests, MassWildlife is holding a Listening Session on May 9 at the Mohawk Regional High School, 26 Ashfield Road in Shelburne Falls from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. The session is designed to share information about coyote management and coyote hunting regulations, and to hear input and concerns from the public.
The Listening Session is an important part of the process that MassWildlife employs when reviewing policy and regulations. As a first step in this review, MassWildlife professional staff will examine the best available science, consult with other outside professionals, solicit input from stakeholders, and if warranted, prepare recommendations for the Fisheries & Wildlife Board to consider.
This is the second in a series of Listening Sessions to be held in the state. The first session was held in early April in Barnstable. These sessions provide more opportunities for the public to share input with MassWildlife staff and the Fisheries and Wildlife Board.
Anyone unable to attend a Listening Session can provide feedback and comments by emailing mass.wildlife@mass.gov or sending written correspondence to: MassWildlife, Attn: Coyote Feedback, 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough, MA 01581.
Life Jackets
Just a reminder. In Massachusetts, life jackets must be worn by canoeists and kayakers from September 15 through May 15. Youth under 12 years old, personal watercraft users, waterskiers and stand-up paddleboard users must wear them all the time.
Accidental Shooting Death
As you may be aware, there was an accidental shooting death during the Youth Turkey Hunting Day. I hope to have more information/comments on this unfortunate accident in next week’s column.

Spring turkey hunting season opens tomorrow

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The season opens tomorrow and runs through May 25. Hunting hours begin ½ hour before sunrise and end at noon. Hunters can harvest up to 2 bearded birds in the spring (1 per day).
MassWildlife predicts this spring turkey season will be a productive one for hunters across Massachusetts. In 2017, there was a record high spring harvest, and 2018 was the third highest spring turkey harvest ever. These continued high harvest years indicate a strong, resilient turkey population across all Wildlife Management Zones.
Spring and summer brood productivity can locally influence turkey populations, but overall brood success has been strong over the last several years. Winter severity may sometimes reduce turkey populations in northern climates, but habitat conditions are very good across the state and help buffer the effects of winter.
But don’t let the high abundance of turkeys fool you, says MassWildlife, it’s still very important to scout pre-season. Turkey hunting is very popular in the spring, especially during the first week of season, so scouting will help you identify multiple areas where hunting may be productive.
As always, remember to be respectful when hunting on private and public lands, watch out for ticks and be careful.
Rainbow trout liberated
The skies were leaden colored and there was a chilly wind which whipped across the lake into our faces, at the Stockbridge Bowl boat ramp on Thursday, April 18. But that didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the 50 or so people who were gathered there to witness or take part in the great trout liberation. Little tykes along with their siblings, parents and grandparents helped the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) release about 800 rainbow trout (which had a total estimated weight of approximately 1,000 lbs).
Everyone was focused on getting those trout into the lake. They were beauties, averaging around 14 inches with brilliant reddish pink bands along their sides
Aquatic Biologist Leanda Fontaine trucked the fish in from the McLaughlin Hatchery in Belchertown, MA. Prior to releasing the fish, she gave a little talk about the DFW and the various functions it provides. She talked about the 5 state hatcheries, the number of fish that are stocked statewide (500,000) and in our area (100,000), how long the stocking will take place this spring and other tidbits of interesting information. The overall reason for the event was to get kids, their parents and the general public aware of MassWildlife and its activities.
Leanda and her boss, DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden then netted some fish from the truck fish holding tank, put them into buckets and had the kids rush them to the water’s edge and toss them into the lake. Some of those kids weren’t much taller than the buckets but there were plenty of adults to help them. When everyone got tired of racing to the water’s edge with the buckets of fish, Leanda and Andrew flushed the remaining hundreds of fish directly from the truck to the water.
I am happy to announce that there were no casualties, all the fish survived the ordeal and no buckets were accidentally tossed into the lake with the fish in them. I’m not sure who had the most fun, the adults or the kids.
Warning to the parents/grandparents: Many of these kids are old enough to remember where those fish were stocked and you can safely bet that they will be looking to you to bring them back to catch some of them. Perhaps you may want to catch a few yourself.
Look at that cute girl in the photo. The look of joy and excitement in her face tells it all. Don’t you just love seeing happy kids enjoying the outdoors. Who knows, maybe she was so inspired that someday she will become an aquatic biologist.
Trout stockings
The following local water bodies were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week.
Rivers and Brooks: Bronson Brook in Worthington, Depot Brook in Washington, Factory Brook in Middlefield, Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington; Little River in Worthington and Huntington, Mill Brook in Plainfield, Walker Brook in Becket and Chester, West Branch Brook in Chesterfield and Worthington, Westfield Brook in Windsor and Cummington, Westfield River (East Branch) in Cummington and Chesterfield, Williams River in West Stockbridge and Great Barrington and Yokum Brook in Becket.
Lakes and Ponds: Big Pond in Otis, Lake Buel, Lake Garfield, Goose Pond, Greenwater Pond and Otis Reservoir.
Firearms Safety Course
The Cheshire Rod & Gun Club will be hosting a scheduled live fire NRA & Massachusetts State Police Certified Firearms Safety Course next Sunday, May 5. This is to qualify MA residents and non-residents alike for the MA License-To- Carry or FID Card. It will be a hands-on live firing, one day course. A full lunch and a $10 gift certificate to Pete’s Gun Shop will be provided.
The cost is $100 which covers all ammo, safety gear, class materials, certificates, an NRA Firearms Safety textbook and the food. The class starts at 9:00 am and lasts until about 4:30 pm. Interested parties are asked to pre-register by calling or stopping in at Pete’s Gun Shop at 413-743-0780, as space is limited. This live fire course fills up very quickly and you should call or stop in early to pre-register. They also ask you to be there by 8:45 am to sign in.
New Land Protected

MassWildlife recently acquired 13 acres in the town of Worthington on Sam Hill Road. This small but strategic acquisition provides greatly improved access to the part of the Fox Den Wildlife Management Area which is in Worthington. Beware, Sam Hill Road is an unpaved dead-end road which can get very muddy at times.

Map, Compass & Survival Course

On Saturday, May 11, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, MassWildlife will be conducting a Map, Compass, & Survival course at the DCR/Mass Park’s Visitor Center, 740 South Street, Pittsfield. This course is not recommended for students less than 12 years of age. To enroll call (508) 389-7830 Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00pm.
Let’s not take this anymore!
What’s going on with those aggressive wild animals lately? Not too long ago, a young girl from Norwell was chased into her house by a coyote. It bit her arm and ran off with one of her shoes. Then there was the bear incident in Hinsdale a couple of weeks ago where a family’s small horse was killed. Now comes news of gangs of wild turkeys becoming aggressive, intimidating and pecking people near Boston.
Lock em up! That’s what I say. Build a wall! They’re thugs, bad actors! They’re intimidating us. Let them know that they are not welcomed in our neighborhoods. Round them up and drop them off in a sanctuary town, like Ripton!
Or we could take a more sensible approach by taking down those bird feeders to help keep the bears and turkeys away. We could put our garbage pails near the curbside in the morning instead of the night before. We could cover windows and shiny objects to keep turkeys from responding aggressively to shiny objects and their own reflections while they’re trying to assert dominance within their flock.
Pardon the levity this morning, but I think you get the point.

Small game hunting season closing for the year

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According to the MA fishing and hunting regulations, last Thursday, February 28, marked the end of cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare and fox hunting seasons until they reopen next fall. This week, March 8, the bobcat and coyote hunting seasons end.

You must report your fox and coyote harvest within 4 working days of the end of the season by reporting them at official check station or online. If you report your harvest online, write the confirmation number on a tag and attach the tag to the carcass or pelt. These confirmation numbers must stay attached to the pelt or carcass until that pelt or carcass is prepared for mounting or sold or tanned.

While we are on the subject of regulations, please be aware that there are several hunting season date errors in the printed version of the 2019 Guide to Freshwater Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Laws involving the bear, snowshoe hare, and furbearer seasons. While all digital versions of the Guide have been corrected, hard copy versions distributed at state offices, retailers, and other license vendors contain hunting season date errors. Click onto https://www.mass.gov/files/documents to find a 1-page hunting season summary with corrected season dates.

Jimmy Fund Ice Fishing Derby
The winners of the 33rd Annual Jimmy Fund Ice Fishing Derby which was held on February 10 were as follows:
Kids Division: 1st Place – Levi Starbird, a 9.25 lbs Pike; 2nd Place – Ricky Rando a 9.25 lbs Pike; 3rd Place – David Bonomi an 8.75lbs Pike.
Young Adults Division: 1st Place – James Lambert a 3.75lbs Brown Trout; 2nd Place – Andrew Clement a 2.75lbs Pickerel.
Adult Division: 1st Place – Ralph Wendling a 14.75lbs Pike; 2nd Place – Jake Burke a 12.25lbs Pike and 3rd Place – Jeff Kucka a 9.75lbs Pike.

Congratulations to all!

Public Meeting on the Conservation and Management of Hoosic River Fish

The Hoosic River Watershed Association (HooRWA) will be having a State of the River Conference on March 11 at 6:00 PM on the campus of Williams College, Williamstown, MA. The event will be held in Room 3 of Griffin Hall. A campus map is available at: https://map.williams.edu.

This year’s conference will feature presentations from three state fisheries biologists from Massachusetts, Vermont, and New York. They will speak on the status and conservation of the fishery resources of the Hoosic River. Following their talks, HooRWA will moderate a panel discussion to enable in depth question and answer, and discussion.

The Hoosic River is known as an outstanding trout fishery through most of its passage from its headwaters in Massachusetts down river into New York. In the lower New York reaches, it also provides excellent smallmouth bass and panfish angling.

Yet the River has challenges, including long-term warming trends, disturbance to the banks of the River causing erosion and siltation, presence of harmful environmental contaminants, and on-going development pressures throughout the watershed.

The HooRWA, with the assistance of the Williams College Center for Environmental Studies, will provide the public an opportunity to ask fisheries experts about the status of the fishery and the current management challenges. By bringing together agency professionals from all three states, the HooRWA seeks to cultivate a tristate discussion that could lead to a greater level of collaboration and cooperation in efforts to monitor the status of the fishery resource, and to adopt appropriate conservation measures to ensure long term benefits for our citizens.

Light refreshments and snacks will be provided

Archery Tournament

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club will be having its Berkshire Championship Archery Tournament on March 16 and March 17. It is a 450-Round Archery Shoot for the benefit of its Scholarship Fund – Aim for Higher Education at the Buckhorn Archer’s Indoor Range, 24 West Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge, MA. The classes of competition are: Adults: compound, freestyle men, compound freestyle women; Bow Hunter Compound Men (Release and Fingers combined); Bow Hunter Compound Women (Release and Fingers combined); Traditional Longbow or Recurve. Choose any one of 3 shooting times: Saturday March 16 at 4:00 pm, Sunday March 17, 9:00 am or 1:00 pm, Youth Shoot 11:00 am Sunday.

There will be a Chinese Raffle and Silent Auction.

Tickets Only – Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner Saturday at 6:00 pm – Adults $25 and 12 & Under $10. a Pancake Breakfast on Sunday 7:30 to 11:00am – Adults $8 and 12 & Under $5.
For tickets to dinner, preregister, directions or questions, contact John Mange (518)794-7868 or John Davis (413) 446-9062.

They really take archery seriously at the SSC. This winter, they are having the biggest youth league that they have seen with more than 70 people taking part. The shooting takes place on Saturday mornings.

Keeping with the SSC, congratulations go to Bob Cameron for winning the Red Nose Skeet Championship which was held on December 30. This win follows up his Club Championship last fall.

Its “Déjà Vu” for our Onota Lake Bald Eagles

A message from local wildlife photographer Mark Thorne is as follows: “Its that time of year again for the eagles to be setting up “house” in preparation for another (hopefully) successful year. Same pair as the past several years: female (blue band T98) now in her 17th year, and her mate (gold band WR8) now 13 years old. They have been a pair nesting here since 2014. The female has been at this lake for much longer. I’ve been photographing her since 2007, although I was only able to confirm her identity in 2011”.

“As always, the female is very tolerant of my presence; the male less so. If I pretend that I’m going about some activity he stays, but if I stop and look up at him, he bolts within a minute or two. She will sit watching me for hours without moving.”

“I never tire watching them every year”, Mark said.

Thank you, Mark, and we never get tired of admiring your outstanding photos.

Fly-fishing Film Festival

The Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited invites you to enjoy its fly-fishing film festival at the
Chrissy Farm at the Barrington Brewery in Great Barrington on March 7 at 6:30 pm.
There are 9 award winning film shorts that take you to Alaska, French Polynesia, Yellowstone, the South Fork, and Australia to witness fly-fishing adventures in full color and sound. Trout, sharks, salmon and steelhead are found in some of their grandest habitats.

Taconic TU organizer Bill Travis encourages you to get there early and have a meal and/ or sample their on-location homemade beers. There will be an opportunity to enter a silent auction to win Costa sunglasses, Scientific Angler line, Simms Guide nippers, a Thomas and Thomas Avanti Rod, Yeti Roadie, Ross Reel and other items. (Ooh, bring some cash. This is high quality stuff!)

Tickets are $15 on-line and $20 at the door. On-line tickets are $15 and are available at: https://flyfilmtour.myeventscenter.com/event/Great-Barrington-Ma-31230.

Club Turkey Shoots

The Lenox Sportsmen’s Club and Lee Sportsmen’s Association will be having turkey shoots at their respective clubhouses starting today and running every Sunday through March 31. The hours for the Lenox shoots are from noon to 3:00 pm and the Lee club shooting hours are from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Both clubs will be offering the winners NY strip steaks, turkeys, pork loins and spiral hams.

The “Greek” now fishes beyond the riverbend

John Kastrinakis, of Lenox, formerly of Lee, fondly referred to as “the Greek”, passed away this past week at the age of 84. A Taconic Chapter TU founding member and its treasurer for the first four or five years of existence, he was a long-time TU Board member. He was also a member of the Atlantic Salmon Federation and he took frequent salmon fishing trips to New Brunswick fishing for the “king of fish”. with friends from the Springfield area. He taught fly tying and fly fishing classes and developed his own well-known killer trout fly called the Greek Grabber. He was a recipient of Taconic TU’s prestigious Crooked Staff Award. He was a valued member of the ROMEOS (Retired Old Men Eating Out).

Our sincerest condolences go out to John’s wife Joyce and family who also recently lost a son/sibling Paul.

Its ice fishing time

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Now that the weather has finally turned cold, the ice on our lakes should now be safe to go ice fishing. Most ice fishermen that I know have been chomping at the bits waiting for this time. They already dug out their heavy clothes and ice fishing equipment. Their power augers are tuned up and ready to start drilling holes. Some folks probably rummaged through their freezers for deer burgers. All they have to do is purchase some hamburger rolls and live bait, grab a kid or two and head out onto the lake. Of course they already purchased their 2019 fishing or sporting licenses……..right?

I’m guessing that the ice thickness is somewhere between 6 and 12 inches thick, depending where you go. The higher up in elevation, the more ice on the lakes.

Actually, MassWildlife doesn’t want us to guess the ice thickness. They caution us to always consider ice to be potentially dangerous. One can’t judge ice conditions by appearance or thickness alone; many other factors like water depth, size of waterbody, water chemistry, currents, snow cover, age of ice, and local weather conditions impact ice strength.

New ice is stronger than old ice. Four inches of clear, newly formed ice may support one person on foot, while a foot or more of old, partially thawed ice may not. Ice doesn’t freeze uniformly. They caution you to continue checking ice conditions frequently while venturing out onto the ice.
Stay away from ice formed over flowing water. Avoid traveling onto ice-bound rivers and streams, as the currents make ice thickness unpredictable. Many lakes and ponds may contain spring holes and other areas of currents such as stream inlets that can create deceptively dangerous thin spots.
MassWildlife cautions that before heading out onto the ice, tell someone your plans, including where you are going and when you expect to return. Carry a cell phone in case of emergency and always carry ice picks and rope with you on the ice.
They suggest that you wear a life jacket because it will keep you at the surface and can provide insulation against the effects of cold water. (I suspect that for most of us wearing a life jacket is not practical. We are bundled up so much that we can’t fit the life jacket under or over our bulky clothes. Lately, ice fishing clothes manufactures are making parkas with flotations built inside them. That may be the way to go when you purchase your next parka).
The guidelines below are for clear, blue ice on lakes and ponds. White ice or snow ice is only about half as strong as new clear ice and can be very treacherous. Use an ice chisel, auger, or cordless drill to make a hole in the ice and determine its thickness and condition.
The general rule is that if there is 2 inches or less, stay off the ice. Four inches should support an individual on foot, 5 inches for snowmobiles or ATV’s and a foot or more for a small pick-up truck.
If you fall through the ice try not to panic. Call for help if there are people nearby. Don’t remove winter clothing as air trapped in your clothes can provide warmth and help you float. Turn in the direction from where you came because ice previously walked on should be the safest. Place your hands and arms on an unbroken surface and kick your legs. If you have ice picks or a pair of nails, use them to pull yourself up onto the ice while kicking. Lie flat and roll away. Once your torso is on firm ice, roll toward thicker ice to distribute your weight.
Find shelter and get warm: Change out of wet clothing and find warm, dry coverings. If you are in a remote area, get to or start a campfire. Otherwise, get to a car or house. Seek medical advice from your physician on medical attention.
If someone else falls in: Remember the phrase “Preach-Reach-Throw-Go.” Preach: Call 911 if you can. Shout to the victim to reassure them help is on the way. Reach: If you can safely reach them from shore, extend an object like a rope, jumper cables, tree branch, or ladder to them. Throw: Toss one end of a rope or something that will float to the victim. Go: If the situation is too dangerous for you to perform a rescue, call 911 or go to find help. Untrained rescuers can become victims themselves.
If your pet falls in, don’t attempt to rescue it. but rather go for help. You could become a victim yourself when trying to assist your pet. Always keep pets leashed while walking on or near ice.
For years the group that I ice fish with had a tongue-in-cheek rule that the oldest guy should go out on the ice first. What the heck, we would laugh, he had lived the longest life. Now that I am the oldest in the group, it doesn’t seem so humorous anymore. Lately, for one reason or another, I just haven’t been able to show up at the lake as early as the others. Darn! There’s usually someone out on the ice by the time I get there.
Firearm Course
The Lee Sportsmen’s Association (LSA) will be having a Multi-License Firearm Course next Saturday from 9:00am until 4:00pm for a proprietary LTC course that qualifies for licenses in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Florida, Utah, Arizona, etc. This comprehensive one-day course includes information for federal and state firearm laws, operation and safe handling of firearms, shooting fundamentals, care and cleaning, concealed carry methods, a live fire session on the pistol range, and much more.
Course fee is $180 for the entire course or take just the MA/CT segment for $150, with live fire. State license application fees and processing are not included. Participants will receive a course certificate, application forms, an informative student resource CD, and supporting documents. All firearms, ammunition, and eye and ear protection will be provided, including lunch as well.
To register, visit https://nrapistolinstructor.com/contact, and provide your full name including middle initial, date of birth, course date, course selection (Multi-License Firearm Course at Lee Sportsmen’s Association), address, telephone, and email contact information. Payment is due in cash at the course. Contact Robert McDermott at (413) 232-7700 or email robmcdermott@verizon.net.

Pheasant Fundraiser Dinner
The LSA will be having its Annual Turkey Shoot and Pheasant Fundraising Dinner next Sunday beginning at 1:00pm. Turkey shoots will be conducted from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Prizes include: NY Strip steaks, turkeys, pork loins, and spiral hams. Dinner is served at 5:00pm. The cost is $15 per Adult and Children 12 and under are $7. For any questions or if you are interested in helping, contact John Polastri at (413) 822-8278.
Bunny Hunt
The Berkshire Beagle Club will be having its rabbit hunt next Saturday. It is advertised as a fun time with good food and raffle prizes, as well as prizes for largest hare and cottontail rabbit. Participants must the bring their game to the Beagle Clubhouse for the 5:00pm check-in. Hunting takes place on your own, away from clubhouse and grounds. The entrance fee is $20 which includes raffles and dinner. For more information, contact Hunt Chairman John Demary, at (413) 441-2253.
Incidentally, the club held its election of officers for 2019. Al Costa of Westfield, MA was elected President, Dick Kalisz of Adams as Vice President, Tim Cahoon of Pittsfield as Treasurer and Pat Barry of Pittsfield as Secretary.