March 2006
March 26, 2006
Fish Fever
I can feel it in the air. Many people around me have it. I know I must have given it to them. It is very contagious. It can make you sweat and reel with pain. You should be very careful if you feel you are coming down with it. It has been known to make the afflicted spend enormous amounts of money to cure it. Unfortunately, the cure is only temporary.
The only cure I know of is to catch one. After catching one, those afflicted will notice that symptoms will subside for a day or two. As with most fevers, the degree of severity can fluctuate from one individual to another.
I first encountered it when I was eight years old. My Uncle Donald had taken me fishing for bass and I had caught Catostomus clarkii. It was a terrible thing…..the scales, the whiskers! I felt different after that incident. I thought the feeling would go away. But after several days the feelings became worse and the desire grew stronger; I was aching for another one.
As I walked through the playground, I became infatuated with finding a way to satisfy my desire. While the other kids were throwing balls and playing jacks, I was wondering which bug would make a satisfying meal for my underwater pals. And after school, I would make my way to Kauf Kauf's hardware store and ponder which tackle setup I would be able to call my own.
The Zepco rod and reel combination is what I decided on; it came with a price. I would have to give up part of my afternoons to a paper route, a paper route that, coincidentally, took me by one of my favorite spots - Sleep Brook. I spent many an afternoon and morning chasing for Salvelinus fontinalis, which has been known to temporarily cure the fever.
And today, as I ponder my forty-seventh birthday, I’m in constant search of a cure to the addiction that was past on to me by my Uncle Don.
This Saturday I will search for Salmo salar which provides relieve for the fever, but Salmo salar also carries the risk of making the fever much worse. It is a risk I must take; a risk that could alter my mental state for weeks on end.
And if the fish gods smile on me……oh, what a thrill!
March 25, 2006
Baitcasters and KTP
Test Your Fish Sense
When first learning to use a bait cast reel, it is best to use which of the following lines A) 15 pound mono, B) 10 pound mono C) 20 pound braided D) 20 pound mono. answer at end of post.
I followed the crowd to the Kittery Trading Post for the kick off of SpringFest on Thursday. The typical KTP deals are being offered with your forth lure for just a penny. Also, various gear is for sale at steep discounts.
I attended the bait casting seminar and picked up a few pieces of information that I hadn't previously heard about. Some of the information I knew about but was using in the wrong way.
First, remember that if your new to bait cast reels, you have to set the spool adjustment knob for each different lure you cast. Even the most basic bait casters include a spool adjustment knob. It’s located on the same side as the handle. This adjustment allows you to add tension to the spool. It's like a mini brake that allows the spool to slow down.
This adjustment enables newbees to slow the reel down and avoid the bail tangles that are associated with bait casters. If you haven't tried a bait caster before, you will become familiar with those nasty tangles that occur when the spool keeps letting out line after the lure has slowed down or hit the water and stopped. You may sacrifice a little distance by tightening down on the adjustment knob; but it will enable you to develope your technique instead of throwing your bait caster in the dump. Many people refuse to read the directions that come with their reel. And because of that they have given up on these reels completely. They just don't understand the basic adjustments involved.
I knew about the tension adjustment knob, but it never seemed to work for me. And now I know why.
Continue reading "Baitcasters and KTP"
March 21, 2006
LL Bean & Hamlin's Marine
Test Your Fish Sense
True or False........The most often targeted fresh water species in the State of Maine is the A) Brook Trout, B) Brown Trout, or C) Landlocked Salmon answer at end of extended post
I stopped into Hamlin's Marine to pick up my boat on Monday. I had requested for it to be ready for the last week in March. Hamlin's was ahead of schedule, and I decided to pick it up.
While I was there, I noticed LL Bean spinning tackle. I've never seen spinning tackle with the LL Bean name on it. Dan Higgins plunked one in my hand for a look. The reel had a smooth action and the rod loaded to near perfection as I bent it in two.
It's no surprise that LL Bean teamed up with Dave Hamlin to help introduce its new line of spinning tackle. Dave believes in customer service. And once you receive Dave's good deal handshake, you’re in for years of great service after the sale.
Hamlin's is located in Waterville, Maine, but if you’re from the Bangor area, Dave's got a little surprise for you. He expects to be giving the Bangor area a new level of service. I didn't get all the details but if you’re from up north, you're in for a treat.
I just can't wait to get my boat in the water. And if Mother Nature obliges, that is going to be sooner rather than latter.
While I've been waiting for Mother Nature to oblige, I've spruced up some of my gear.
Continue reading "LL Bean & Hamlin's Marine"
March 19, 2006
Maine IFW pages of interest
Test Your Fish Sense
How many bodies of water in Maine hold Northern Pike? A) 6, B) 8, C) 12, D) 16, E) 19
I was digging through the Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Department's web-site last week and found some interesting information. Maine's managed fish species have strategic management reports associated with them. Those reports shed light on some of the fish's breeding, predator and feeding behaviors. If your interested in a specific species check out this link. I found that if you read through the reports, there is some interesting information.
Another interesting area I reviewed was last year's fish stocking report. It gives me a heads up as to where and when fish may be showing up on local waters.
If you want to buy your license on line, the department is raffling off a 1957 warden's truck. You’re going to have to buy your license anyways. You might as well get a chance at the truck.
Reviewing the fish identification page is fun for people that are new to fishing. I just like clicking through it and viewing the drawings to see if they are different to what I have seen in a lake or stream.
The answer to Test Your Fish Sense is D) 16 bodies of water.
According to Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Management Plan for Northern Pike, Prepared in November of 2001, there are 16 confirmed waters that contain Pike. Sebago Lake is not on the list. I asked the Department about the possibility of Pike in Sebago last fall (2005). I was told by John Boland "We still have not observed any juvenile pike at Sebago, and we'll keep our fingers crossed that the population does not explode. In the case that it does, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it."
March 17, 2006
Baxter Expansion
I was listening to the news and heard the hubbub about the Baxter State Park expansion. Here we go again, outdoor recreational types fighting each other.
What's wrong with Baxter expanding anyway? Do we really need every available acre of the North Woods open to hunting? I've been a fisherman my whole life and a hunter since I was sixteen! When the State started imposing different rules on my fishing rights did you here me complain? No!!!! I figured we needed some ponds that had horse power restrictions to slow things down. And when the fly fishers wanted all the best trout streams, did you hear me say anything? No!!!! I felt the management officials were trying to limit the kill factor and preserve some of the fish for trophy size.
Now, we have the opportunity to expand a State Park that was given to us by Governor Baxter as a gift, and what do I hear? Growling! We finally can give back something to an area that was given to us in the first place.
I think the expansion of Baxter State Park should be looked upon as a gift to Governor Baxter. What's wrong with paying a little homage to a man that helped preserve a spectacular area? We currently have the opportunity to provide a gift that would preserve an area Governor Baxter earmarked for preservation; but, due to the constraints of his mortal life, he wasn't given enough time to make it materialize.
I think the Nay Sayers should be ashamed of their shouts and let Baxter Park move on to its full glory. And, while doing so, we will be saying thank you to Governor Percival Baxter for taking the first steps!
March 15, 2006
Open Water Preperations
While we wait for open water fishing season to fall upon us, there are a few things we can do to get ready. One thing is checking our gear and organizing.
While Bass fishing last year, I became frustrated looking for soft plastic baits. I looked things over and decided the Plano boxes were not working for me. I was constantly taking out boxes as I switched between sencos, worms and tubes.
I thought about my dilemma. I wanted to have the baits readily available while keeping the floor space clear. I needed a storage solution that was accessible and visually organized.
The front bow of my boat has netted storage areas on the inside of the gunnels. I use them to store bumpers and miscellaneous gear. But after thinking about it, I decided this would be the perfect spot to store my soft baits. And the storage medium that fit perfectly was a loose leave binder.
I had seen this type of storage system in the Bass Pro Catalog last year. Being impatient, and wanting to get the project done, I found some old product folders in my office and decided to make my own. The project ended up using four binders and four packages of Ziploc Easy Zipper heavy duty freezer bags.
I broke the soft baits down into four categories Senkos,Tubes, Worms, Creatures.
These are the baits I use most often. I do use others; but I find myself grabbing for these more often than not. I gave each category its own binder filled with my favorite colors.
The final product was very efficient and this is how I made it
Continue reading "Open Water Preperations"
March 10, 2006
Marine Tackle Box Installation
I'm still on course with making alterations to my boat in preparation for April 1st.
This post deals with the installation of an onboard tackle system.
First, you must decide where the tackle system makes the most sense for you. I purchased this boat at the beginning of last season. While fishing last year, I noticed the there was minimal tackle storage for the aft section of the boat. When you’re fishing in the rain, a good storage system can make a huge difference.
I decided to insert my system into the side of the front consol where the arrow is pointed above. I made sure the cover of my center rod compartment would open once I installed the system. Once you have chosen the area, you have to find a tackle storage system that will fit into the area. The web has a multitude places to choose from. I used Google to help me find what I needed.
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Get your measurements right. I measured the area then subtracted an inch from what I thought I could fit. The only box I could find was two inches shorter.
It was a good thing I went with a smaller system. The system that I originally wanted to install was three boxes high. It would have been a very tight fit. Once you have the right box and location, double check it before you make any cuts.
I made a small pilot hole. I then readjusted my desired position after looking where the drill ended up in the recess behind the consol wall.
I then drew an outlined of the desired hole with a pencil and drilled the four corners. This aided me in making a few minor adjustments. Use a small drill when making pilot holes. This way you can hide them by brushing the carpet if things don't work out the way you imagined.
Once confident I had the correct position, the next thing I did was retrace the outline of the hole with a dark marker and drilled the corners with a larger bit
that would allow for the use of a jig saw blade. You may have to drill wood, but I was drilling aluminum. Wear safety glasses and follow your lines exactly.
Once the hole is cut, try a test fit. There may be something that was larger than you thought on the box. Trim the hole if necessary.
Now place the container in the hole. Try all doors or other items that may come in contact with it and make the necessary adjustments.
Now that the box is in place, drill pilot holes for your screws. Use a drill that is the same size as the core of the screw. I like to line them up and make sure I pick a drill larger that is the same or larger than the core of the screw and smaller than it's threads.
Attach the box and you’re done!
Test Your Fish Sense
How long do you have to get yourself out of the water once you fall through the ice? A) 2 minutes, B) 3 minutes C) 5 Minutes D) 10 minutes E) 15 minutes
If you have the time, I really advise checking out these two links on ice safety.
Manitoba University Ice Safety Video
US Army Research Data
The answer is C or D) Five to ten minutes, depending on the individual. If you don't believe me, watch the video.
March 07, 2006
Vehicle Ban Continued
I really hit a nerve when I suggested a new law banning vehicles from Maine's lakes and ponds. There seems to be strong opinions on each side of the issue. I hope the debate does not end with this article.
Do not to confuse the issue. When I mentioned how such missions tax our search and rescue crews, I was referring to there ability to respond to other life saving emergencies, not the financial burden it places on them . When they are engaged in trying to locate a vehicle, they are not as readily available to respond other life saving emergencies.
My heart goes out to the families that have lost individuals to accidents on the ice. If a law banning vehicles from the ice would save one life, my walk to a fishing destination would not be in vane.
I feel such a law would save more than one life. It would also challenge outdoorsmen to use the fortitude instilled in generations of the past. Take out yours snow shoes, have the proper cloths and get a work out that will keep you fit. It may save your life in more than one way.
Join me in the support of this cause. The life it saves maybe yours!
For more information on ice safety check these out:
Manitoba University Ice Safety Video
US Army Research Data
March 06, 2006
Time for Laws to Change
This weekend's trouble at Sabatus Pond reminds us of how dangerous the ice can be. The driving of vehicles on the ice has been allowed in Maine since days past. Sometimes it’s hard to let go of a tradition that has been so long standing. But the time has arrived to let go and make it an illegal activity!
How can we sit back as numerous vehicles punch through the ice, endangering good Samaritans and taxing search and rescue resources? This past weekend’s incident ended with the loss of life. If you have ever driven on the ice with a vehicle, that live could have been yours.
Don’t put me in the category of new thinkers that are not familiar with the traditions of the past. I’ve driven on the ice and am increasingly made aware of the risk drivers take even when precautions are taken. Ice is not of consistent strength on lakes and ponds.
Sunday Morning I took a ride to Sabatus Pond to view the ice fishing activity for myself. It was around 10:30 when I arrived. I counted six vehicles on the ice. This was the day after a man lost his life in this very pond. Somehow the common sense of past generations has not been forwarded to the generations of today. With this in mind, I’m calling for a change.
If people cannot control themselves, then it is our responsibility to make laws that control people. The time has arrived to make driving a vehicle on the ice in Maine illegal. I’m not talking about ATV’s and snowmobiles but vehicles that were designed to be driven on the road. How many people will lose their life before this law is put into affect?
It’s time to take action and make it illegal to drive on the ice before it is too late and another life is lost.
Join me in voicing your opinion on the matter. Post replies to Marc@maineheat.com. I will the post your replies to The FishHead Blog at MaineToday.com.
March 04, 2006
Lure Storage
Test Your Fish Sense
The more time spent on the water usually equates to more fish on the end of the pole. Time on the water is crucial to catching fish. And when fishing season hits, I’m always in a rush to get my boat up from behind the house and into the water. Many times this rushed approach has left me dead at the dock or in the water. And even when you take the appropriate time to check all systems, things can go wrong.
This first weekend of March, will be my last ice fishing weekend of the season. After this weekend, I’m on the open water fishing rampage.
One of the things I’m doing to get ready for open water season is organizing my boat. To do that I’ve added a few storage areas to keep gear handy and neat.
The first project entails adding a spinner lure storage area to my rod compartment. For this project I used adhesive foam sheets, a small bungee cord and a drill.
I used an area in my rod compartment to hold the lures, but the area could be the inside of my tackle box or on the transom of my boat. First, you have to find a place that is convenient.
I found an area between two hinges in my rod cabinet that looked appealing.
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This photo shows one of the hinges that I’m going to drill.
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I selected a drill size to match the tip of the bungee cord that I will be inserting.
The adhesive backed foam is positioned to hold the hooks and the bungee cord is positioned to hold the spinner bodies.
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This technique can be used for a variety of lure types. You may have to use several bungee cords or foam strips. Just be creative and use what works best for the spot your putting it in.
March 03, 2006
Ice Fishing Layers
Test your Fish Sense
True or False.....When ice fishing for Bluegills, a heavy line is better to horse them to the hole quickly.answer at end of post
I want to tip my hat to you ice fishermen sitting in your cozy little camps. I’m sure the road has been long and hard for you. With all the wood stoves burning, propane heaters blowing and ice cold beer chugging, I’m sure you had a hard time balancing the sport with the occasional wrist movements.
While you guys where nice and cozy by the wood stove, I was freezing my little butt off tramping around lakes taking soundings and trying to stay warm. Oh….by the way, I pull my sled, I don’t have another sled to do the job for me.
This brings me back to the topic of ice fishing clothing. Whether you’re a newbie like me, or are an old hat to ice fishing, clothing has to be the most important part of the mix. Even if you’re snug and tight in that shack, you’re going to have to make trips a yonder; well, that's if you want to fish the area properly.
I believe in putting several layers of clothing on rather than dressing to the occasion. Seems the occasion is always changing too fast for bulky suits. High wind / low wind, no sun / plenty of sun, brisk walking / sedentary sitting, these all make up parts of an ice fishing trip.
I began layering my clothing when working for the National Park Service in Wyoming. I really couldn’t afford any high-tech gear and had to make use of what I had. Plus the back-country survey I was conducting meant weeks away from Park Headquarters. All provisions had to be carried in and all un-burnable waste brought out.
I owned L.L.Bean chamois shirts, Levi's dungarees, Duo fold underwear and a Poncho at the time. And on occasion I did see it snow at high elevations. My feet were cold but the wool socks I had begun wearing in college seemed to help.
Now my winter gear is made up of three to four layers. I start with Under Armour , add a layer of Smartwool and then one optional layer of Hot Chillys. This is all covered with a wind breaking layer of Gortex or similar. (See my previous articleThe Post - Gortex and Gortex
When I get to the pond I’m fishing, I have already decided on how many lower layers I will have on for the day. No wind above 0*F is a 3 layer day if the sun is out. If the sun won’t be out, three layers only protects to 15*F. If high winds are forecast for the day, I usually put my forth layer on if the highs for the day will not reach 30* F.
My top layer is variable. When I get out of the truck, I throw my top layers on the sled and start walking. The first three to four minutes is cold. After that, I start to warm up; I’ve been known to strip down to my Under Armour when I get too warm. But my lower layer remains intact. I don't like taking my pants off on the ice. But I will if I have too!
Once my holes are drilled and the heavy work is done, I’ll start to put on my layers. I try to wait until I feel the cold. The longer I wait, the warmer I will be. This longer amount of time allows my perspiration to evaporate before I put my layers on. The dryer I am, the warmer I am.
As far as boots go the sky is the limit. My feet have always perspired a lot, and I bought some boots that have internal vents to carry moisture away. Another technique I find helpful for long treks in the cold is to spray your feet with an antiperspirant before you head out. Remember the dryer you are.....the warmer you are.
This brings me to the topic of head dressing. They’ve always said if your feet are cold.....your head is cold. Make sure to wrap your head up well. I nice wool cap and some type of pull over are a plus. Make sure whatever you use comes off easily to help control body temperature. My hat is the first thing I take off when feeling a little warm. Most off your body heat is lost through your head and I find this a quick way to help regulate my body temperature.
As far as mittens go, use something that can be pulled off and put on quickly. It comes in handy when you’re dealing with a fish and bait.
Just remember layer, layer, layer.....you won't be sorry. And if you have a large down jacket or favorite hunting suit, save it for the coldest days. You'll be happy you did. When the winds are howling over twenty miles per hour, I bring a down jacket. I still throw it on the sled for the walk out.
Dress properly and you'll make memories that delight you. Dress poorly and you’re sure to make memories you'd rather forget.
False....The lighter wieght lines seem to work better. Bluegills can be lite bitters and a four pound test line should do the trick. Some swear by two pound test. I prefer to start with four pound test and work my way down to two pund test if four pound is not working.
March 02, 2006
Hamlin's Marine Called
Test Your Fish Sense
True or False.....Northern Pike have been known to spawn before ice out.answer at end of post!
I just got a call from Hamlin's Marine in Waterville. They've been working on my boat and things seem to be looking up. They found the problem in the chairs mounting assembly and have replaced a defective sending unit in the trolling motor. All I have to do is wait for the ice to melt!
Everyone's been ice fishing while I’ve been secretly getting ready for open water fishing. And, if Mother Nature cooperates, opening day is less than twenty-seven days away. I can feel the motor humming and my rod throbbing as I pull my first salmon of the season into my boat. I can’t wait!
Which brings me to my next series of posting’s “Boat Rigging and Boat Safety”. Let’s face it, the more time you spend getting ready for open water fishing season, the more time you are going to actually spend fishing. And with the boat show’s already starting, it’s not too early to call your marina and make an appointment for any services you need.
When I spoke to Greg at Hamlin’s today, he told me they were getting ready for upcoming boat shows. I purchased my boat at a show last year. What I like about boat shows is the friendly atmosphere and opportunity to talk shop with some of the salesman and owners.
See you soon with some advice on storage!
True…..Northern Pike are one of the first spring’s first spawners and have been seen spawning under the ice..
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