Solving Problems with Nature - Naturally

ERIC P. ORFF
Certified Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Author - Wildlife Lecturer - Wildlife Photographer
Non-Lethal Control of Bats since 1983
nhfishandwildlif@aol.com

Fishing

Weekly Fishing Reports From The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and The Kittery Trading Post

N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- May 31, 2007

This week, big lakes biologist Don Miller is reveling in excellent conditions for bass and trout fishing. Read on for his location and tackle tips.

SPRING STOCKING: For a list of NH waterbodies stocked last week, go to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm.

Buy your fishing license and salmon permit online, any time -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. One-day licenses for New Hampshire residents are just $10, and annual licenses -- just $35 and good through Dec. 31 -- are still the best bargain around. Why not bring a new fishing buddy on your next trip! Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H.

FREE FISHING DAY! This Saturday, June 2, is Free Fishing Day in NH, the one day each year when adults don't need a license to fish! Of course, all regulations and bag limits apply. License and permit still needed for brood stock Atlantic salmon program.

For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm. Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.

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BASS, TROUT AND MAYFLIES By Don Miller, Fisheries Biologist, Region 2/New Hampton

Well, it's that magical time of year when everything in nature breaks forth! Large-lake waters have warmed to the low 60s and smallmouth bass are prowling the flats in earnest, males seeking females and sweeping out nest depressions. We netted an Upper Valley (New London) pond this past week, and largemouth bass were in the early stages of cruising the flats, in water that was 60 degrees.

Anglers are catching good numbers of bass in the big lakes, working the drop-offs where spawned-out females and non-nesting males are lurking. Suspended jerk-baits fished erratically are producing well in these areas. Bass on shallow flats are either nesting or in the process of it. I am still amazed at the tenacity male bass exhibit when guarding a small pile of eggs from anything that gets too close! Catch-and-release seasons (now through June 15) are our best bet for protecting a portion of the spawning population to maintain a robust bass fishery, so please "tread lightly" and enjoy the wonders of nature.

Trout fishing right now is fantastic, as we have seen several hatches of blue-wing olive mayflies on local waters. Reports of larger mayfly hatches have been received as well. I enjoyed a trip to Russell Pond, up in the White Mountain National forest (WMNF) with my fishing pal last week. Be aware that a WMNF parking pass is required at this facility, as well as other sites in the forest. The water temperature was 59 degrees and a few mayflies were starting to show. We trolled wet Heron flies (bronze mallard) and had a blast as chunky holdover brookies repeatedly hit our offerings, fished on sinking-tip fly lines. Russell Pond is deep, crystal-clear water, so we used longer leaders (10-12 feet), and the stop-and-go action of the canoe did the rest.

Casting flies along the shorelines produced brook trout as well. When ladyslippers and blackflies are out, trout fishing is prime-time. Ponds in the White Mountains should produce well for the next month at the very least. Upper and Middle Hall, Guinea and Black Mt. Ponds in Sandwich are great waters to fish, all accessed off Sandwich Notch Road. Upper Hall has vehicle access, while foot travel is required to reach the other (remote) ponds. The Beebe and Mad rivers are nearby and offer wonderful stream fishing for rainbows and brook trout.

The broodstock Atlantic salmon stocking program is in full swing right now, and the Pemigewasset River in Bristol and New Hampton and further down in Franklin are the top spots in the area for this fishery. River temps are in the low 60s and flows are ideal for these acrobatic fish, many in excess of 10 pounds! Remember to pick up your salmon permit before venturing out. (Info and access map: http://wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/atlantic_salmon.htm)

The recently held Winni salmon derby on Lake Winnipesaukee was met with cold east winds and rain showers, but this did not deter the thousands of anglers enjoying the annual spring event on the "big lake." Anglers registered 272 landlocked salmon that averaged 21.6" and a little over 3 pounds in weight. A Manchester angler won the grand prize with a 4.74-pound landlocked salmon! Salmon fishing will hold up well for at least the next few weeks, and as waters gradually warm, salmon will spend less time at or near the surface.

Enjoy the last days of spring, it doesn't get any better!

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If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

For the 2007 NH FISHING FORECAST, with suggested fishing waters by region, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing_forecast.htm.

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FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program

Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. --

N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- May 24, 2007

The weather is warming up and the sun is shining, just in time for a Memorial Day weekend outside! Kevin Sullivan brings news from the New Hampshire coast, where party-boaters are reeling in some impressive cod, haddock, and wolffish.

SPRING STOCKING: 170 sites stocked May 14-18! For a list of NH waterbodies stocked last week, go to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm.

For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm.

Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.

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SEACOAST? SPECTACULAR! By Kevin Sullivan, marine biologist, Region 3/Durham

Well, 100 years passes a little quicker than we thought, because it hasn't even been a year since the Mother's Day floods and we've already experienced rainfalls and flooding at near or equal levels to last year, a supposed "100 year" flood!

If it seems like déjà vu with the rainfall, the same can be said for the haddock catches this year. April started out slow for the ground fisherman, but the end of April and beginning of May have produced many overflowing coolers of haddock mixed in with a few good size Atlantic cod (15-20 lbs and bigger! See photo at the online version of this report). New Hampshire Fish and Game staff conducting at-sea creel surveys have seen individual party-boat anglers landing as many as 14 haddock a piece, although the average angler lands about two to three on a fair day. Most haddock being landed are in the 3 to 5 lb. range, with a few tipping our scales near 10 lbs.

Another repeat from 2006 seems to be an increased frequency of landed Atlantic wolffish, which the fisherman's tale says always come up in pairs. Because these fish prefer to dine on lobster (don't we all?) their meat has a taste similar to lobster, and most anglers will agree that a wolffish is prize catch.

On those days when the sea won't allow (or the wallet, with gas prices these days), the striped bass fishing is a great alternative in May and June. The annual river herring runs to the coastal rivers are in full swing in May, and even though they have had to deal with the high water flows this spring, the fish are managing to find the Fish and Game-operated fish ladders so they can make the transition from salt to fresh water for spawning.

Saltwater anglers have been landing alewives in Henry Law Park in downtown Dover, where fishing is allowed downstream of the Washington St. Bridge. Most anglers are using small spoons, sabiki rigs, or "flutter hooks" for the alewives, which are only the bait for the "real" fishing! Some giant "cow" striped bass as well as "schoolies" are following the river herring runs right up to the fish ladders in Dover and Newmarket. Try fishing these areas at a flooding tide through the peak of tide when the herring are really stacking up

. Although the striped bass fishing is pretty good now if you're at the right spot, its only a few weeks before it bursts wide open up and down the entire seacoast -- so get ready and good luck!

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FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program

N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- May 17, 2007

This week, some good North County news from Andrew Schafermeyer, and no blackflies...yet!

SPRING STOCKING: 190 sites stocked May 7-11! For a list of NH waterbodies stocked last week, go to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm.

Note to broodstock Atlantic salmon program anglers: High water has delayed most of our broodstock stocking activity so far this spring, but a few of these whopping fish have been stocked in the Franklin area. More to come!

For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm.

Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.

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EVEN IN THE NORTH COUNTRY - SPRING HAS ARRIVED! By Andrew Schafermeyer, Fisheries Biologist, Region 1/Lancaster

Anticipating the nature of a phone call to the NH Fish and Game office in Region 1 is rarely a predictable event. Someone on the other end of the line may need help with anything from an unidentified bird to a skunk stuck in a barbeque grill. For most of the year, we may be questioned on anything from ATV laws to habitat characteristics. In the beginning of May, however, when a call gets directed to the Fisheries Division, I can be almost certain of its content. Is the ice out yet on Little Diamond Pond? Have you guys been able to stock Success Pond with the road rutted-up? What is the water temperature in the Androscoggin?

Fishing season has arrived in the North Country and everyone seems ready to forget about the late winter that gripped us in April. No matter what your target species is, the fish are ready for you! I've spoken with a crew of dedicated trout anglers who have been having a fantastic season thus far. They've trolled Mirror Lake in Whitefield and found two- and three-year-old brook trout, some of them weighing over three pounds. That's a lot of brookie! They've even started fishing the brooks like the John's River and, even though water temperatures are still less than 50 degrees F, the trout have been aggressive.

I recently spoke with a serious bass fisherman who has been looking to catch some pre-spawn large and smallmouth. He found Martin Meadow Pond in Lancaster to be just what he was looking for. Fish over-wintered well and look healthy and robust. They seemed to be keyed in on light-colored plastic baits like Senkos and lizards. I've always liked white in spring, as many forage species such as aquatic insects are in a larval stage that big fish recognize.

Speaking of bass... anglers should remember that we're at the start of catch-and-release-only season for bass (smallmouth and largemouth) in NH (May 15 - June 15). Only artificial flies and lures may be used, and bass must be immediately released unharmed at the site of the catch. It's for a good cause: The male smallies are defending their nests from predators, protecting their young and ensuring the next generation's safety.

I've heard very little from my pike fishing contacts, which likely means one of two things: The fishing has been slow, or it has been hot and they don't want me writing about it. Either way, the time to catch big Northern pike is now. Spawning much earlier than bass, these voracious feeders frequent shallow water and look to maximize their energy intake. I've always had luck throwing buzz-baits or loud surface lures such as jitterbugs or torpedoes.

I've been out fishing a half dozen times this spring and my advice is to get in on the action now. Cool and high water mean that fish are everywhere, and I haven't been bothered by a black fly or mosquito yet. You can bet that they are lying in wait ... I can only hope that a fish bites your hook before the bugs bite into you. Good luck!

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If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

For the 2007 NH FISHING FORECAST, with suggested fishing waters by region, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing_forecast.htm.

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FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program

N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- May 10, 2007

This week, Fish and Game's Ben Nugent offers an array of hot spots and tackle & technique tips for locations throughout the state.

SPRING STOCKING: For a list of waterbodies stocked last week, go to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm.

Buy your fishing license and salmon permit online, any time -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. One-day licenses for New Hampshire residents are just $10, and annual licenses -- just $35 and good through Dec. 31 -- are still the best bargain around. Why not bring a new fishing buddy on your next trip! Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H.

For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm

. Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.

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Instant Summer! A quick review of what's biting in the state By Ben Nugent, fisheries biological technician

The ice has receded on virtually every waterbody in the state. Reports as far north as Pittsburg predicted that the Connecticut Lakes would be fishable this week. Like most of us, several of New Hampshire's fish species are ready to become more active after feeling a little dormant this past winter.

><> So many fish, not enough time It's difficult to decide which species to target in early to mid-May in New Hampshire. Pike, pickerel and walleye are seeking meals missed during spawning, other warmwater species are gorging themselves to prepare for spawning, and the current water temperatures and conditions mean plenty of active trout and salmon. It's time to put some miles on those boat trailer tires and hiking boots.

><> Hungry Bass, Panfish and Pike Several warmwater species are beginning to feed ravenously in preparation for their spawning period as water temps begin to rise. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, and panfish such as bluegills, pumpkinseeds, white perch, yellow perch and black crappie are beginning to seek out the warmer shallows to get some extra calories and perhaps to some scouting for nest construction. It's hard to believe it, but we've seen water temperatures surpass 60 degrees F already in places! Keep your eye out for these fish species to be in very shallow waters (sometimes less than six inches). Fish the shallow water most easily warmed by a warm afternoon sun and you should do well. Here are a couple of suggestions: try using jerk baits with very slow retrievals for bass and target tributaries and nearby gravel bars or wood structure for most panfish species. Those in search of catching a monster predator should put on a strong leader and target pike. Several pike, with the potential of exceeding twenty pounds, call the Connecticut River home. If you toss a line in the river and its impoundments from Lancaster down to the Massachusetts border, there's a good chance that one of these toothy monsters will hit. A diehard pike angler reported catching one greater than 19 pounds recently in Dalton and seeing a few more much larger. As with bass and other panfish, pike are seeking out the warmer shallows and flats right now. The difference of a couple degrees in water temperature from a hot afternoon can mean everything.

><> The Fruit of our Hatcheries All six of our hatcheries have had stocking trucks on the road every day in recent weeks. Our fish culturists in the northern part of the state have had to use a little ingenuity to stock those lakes and ponds that are still ice-covered. It appears that spring flood flows are past us, though, and current flow conditions are ideal to hold stocked trout. We've been traveling to several hatcheries to administer fin clips to stocked fish for future surveys. All fish are in great condition and size. The appearance of these fish will have the most seasoned angler guessing if the fish is wild. Check out our weekly stocking report at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm.

It's difficult to summarize all the reports we've been receiving from anglers in the state. Trout ponds such as Saltmarsh Pond (Gilford), Sky Pond (New Hampton), Mirror Lake (Whitefield), Profile and Echo lakes (Franconia), and Hot Hole Pond (Loudon), have had anglers walking away very happy. There are countless opportunities for good river fishing in New Hampshire. Some of my favorite spots for springtime casting include the delayed harvest sections of the south branch of the Piscataquog River and the Souhegan River. These rivers receive generous numbers of larger fish and have reports of fish being caught well over twenty inches in length. The upper Connecticut River from Murphy Dam (Pittsburg) to West Stewartstown is well worth the trip. Fishing small pockets in this section of river can lead to some quality brown trout and rainbow trout strikes. ><> Big Lakes Update Happy salmon, rainbow trout and lake trout anglers are everywhere in the Lakes Region. Water temps in most of the lakes managed for salmon and lake trout are beginning to exceed 50 degrees F and are quickly rising from the recent abnormally high air temps. Salmon, rainbows and lakers are still being caught in relatively shallow depths in the water column. A quick sink-tip fly line, a couple to a few colors of lead core, or up to a dozen feet or so depth on the downrigger seem to be working pretty well. Live smelt towed at very slow speeds or trolling flies and spoons with some orange color at quicker speeds seem to be pretty productive. The anglers targeting these lakes all know the tried and true path to a successful fishing adventure on the big lakes involves a lot of experimentation. Patterns and depths could vary by the hour. Local bait shops can be a valuable resource to find out the colors and depths du jour. It should be noted that John Viar, one of the lakes region's fisheries biologists, has had few a great days at Sunapee Lake recently. Aside from landlocks topping out at over five pounds, John managed to catch a monster laker. The behemoth measured in at eleven pounds, eleven ounces and 31 inches long -- go to the online version of this report to see a photo (http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing_reports.htm). Congratulations to John Viar for taking and releasing this monster on six-pound test and for battling this fish for over thirty minutes! ><> Catch a King The Atlantic salmon broodstock fish are about to enter New Hampshire's waters. Fish that at first sight that will make your jaw drop and knees tremble are soon to be loaded from the Warren Hatchery and stocked into various rivers in the Merrimack watershed. $11 permit required. More information about these enormous fish is available at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/atlantic_salmon.htm. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm. For the 2007 NH FISHING FORECAST, with suggested fishing waters by region, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing_forecast.htm. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2007 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- May 3, 2007 In today's report, Keene-based fisheries biologists Gabe Gries and Mike Racine offer some ideas for fishing in the southwestern part of the Granite State. Spring fish stocking is really rolling now! For a list of waterbodies stocked last week, go to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. THIS SATURDAY 5/5: The new "All-fish Expo" is here! Saturday, May 5, from 10 to 3 at Fish and Game, 11 Hazen Drive in Concord. Free admission. We'll help you get ready for the season -- with "how-to" workshops (striper fishing, trolling tactics, kayak fishing, lots more!), plus boats and exhibits and all kinds of gear. For a full list of seminars and vendors, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2007/News_2007_Q2/All_Fish_Expo_042307.htm. TONIGHT 5/3: If you're reading this on May 3 and you're close to Concord: Tonight! -- Get in on the "panfish craze" with fisheries biologist John Viar and his free talk on the secrets of panfishing. That's tonight (Thursday), May 3, at 7 p.m., at NH Fish and Game, 11 Hazen Drive in Concord, NH. More info: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2007/News_2007_Q2/Panfish_Craze_041607.htm Buy your fishing license and salmon permit online, any time -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. One-day licenses for New Hampshire residents are just $10, and annual licenses -- just $35 and good through Dec. 31 -- are still the best bargain around. Why not bring a new fishing buddy on your next trip! Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H. Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FISHING ACTION AND WATERS ARE WARMING UP IN NH's MONADNOCK/UPPER VALLEY REGION By Gabe Gries & Michael Racine, Region 4/Keene Fisheries Biologists Snow to rain (measured in inches) to summertime weather in the 80's and then back to cooler weather. What's a person to do? Go fishing, of course! Just because the weather isn't cooperating or consistent doesn't mean you can't catch fish. Anglers in Southwestern NH have already been having a successful fishing season. Reports from Laurel Lake (Fitzwilliam) show anglers are bagging some impressive trout including rainbows up to 19 inches and some monster 4-5 pound browns. Trout stocking has been difficult over the past several weeks due to some ponds still having ice and lots of water in the rivers and streams. However, there are trout out there with more being stocked almost every day. Keep an eye on the Fish and Game website for the latest weekly stocking information, or click through the stocking link near the top of the page. Trout ponds and fly-fishing only ponds are open as of April 28. Some good spots to try for trout include Dublin Lake (Dublin), Sand Pond (Marlow), Swanzey Lake (Swanzey), Cold River (Alstead, Walpole), South Branch Ashuelot River (Swanzey/Troy), Spoonwood Lake (Nelson), Gustin Pond (Marlow), Contoocook River (Henniker), Mont Williams Pond (Weare), Nissitissit River (Brookline), Beards Brook (Hillsboro), and Winnepocket Lake (Webster). Walleyes were starting to hit in the Connecticut River until the intense rains began. The river is relatively high and muddy now, but the fish are still around as they stage for spawning. As the river comes down and begins to warm up, the walleye bite below Vernon and Bellows Falls Dams and at the mouths of major tributaries should start again. Fishing for black crappies, perch and sunfish should also start to get good as the river levels decline and the water temps rise. As spring progresses, opportunities for great bass fishing will increase. Remember that although the air temperature may be warm, the water temperature will still be cool. Take that into account when choosing your bait/lure and retrieval technique. Bass may still be somewhat lethargic and will want a slow-moving bait/lure that looks like an easy meal. A limited number of landlocked salmon (250) were stocked into Nubanusit Lake last spring and approximately the same number will be stocked this year. Remember, we are stocking low numbers of these salmon to increase their growth and to protect the lake's smelt population, so treat each fish you catch with care. Our management goal is to have these fish reach 18" by their second fall in the lake. Fish in the 12"-13" were reported being caught last fall and anglers reported incidental catches of salmon this winter in the 16" range. So, we expect some Nuby salmon to be of legal size this spring. Please remember that length limits and creel limits are waterbody specific. In Nuby, salmon must be at least 15" if you are going to keep them, but there is no length limit on rainbow trout. If you are not sure how to tell these species apart, go to http://www.dnr.cornell.edu/ext/fish/salmon/speciesdescriptions.htm. We hope you enjoy fishing this year in the Monadnock/Upper Valley Region and don't forget to take a kid fishing anytime you can. We are always happy to talk to you about fish and fishing so please contact us at Region 4 (352-9669; reg4@nhfgd.org) if you have any questions. For a list of popular waterbodies to fish by species, please consult the Suggested Fishing Locations for the Monadnock Region/Southwest N.H, which can be found at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing_forecast/Locations_Southwest.htm. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm. For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2007 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- April 26, 2007 This week, Mark Beauchesne can hardly contain his excitement to get out on the water for the trout pond opener, after a hemmed-in, rained-out early spring! Spring fish stocking is underway. For a list of waterbodies stocked last week, go to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Mark your calendars: the new "All-fish Expo" is coming Saturday, May 5th, from 10 to 3 at Fish and Game, Hazen Drive in Concord. Free admission. We'll help you get ready for the season -- with "how-to" workshops (striper fishing, trolling tactics, kayak fishing, lots more!), plus boats and exhibits and all kinds of gear. For a full list of seminars and vendors, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2007/News_2007_Q2/All_Fish_Expo_042307.htm. And don't forget -- get in on the "panfish craze" with fisheries biologist John Viar and his free talk on the secrets of panfishing. That's next Thursday, May 3, at 7 p.m., at NH Fish and Game, 11 Hazen Drive in Concord, NH. More info: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2007/News_2007_Q2/Panfish_Craze_041607.htm Buy your fishing license and salmon permit online, any time -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. One-day licenses for New Hampshire residents are just $10, and annual licenses -- just $35 and good through Dec. 31 -- are still the best bargain around. Why not bring a new fishing buddy on your next trip! Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H. Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> TAKE AN ICE-OUT HOLIDAY AND ENJOY OPENING DAY FOR TROUT PONDS 4/28! By Mark Beauchesne, Marketing and Promotions Coordinator Ice-out was declared on Monday! We should make it an official holiday! If you haven't done it already, time to break out the fishing gear and make plans for a great season ahead. With work, family and spring cleanup at home, I'm feeling the crunch. So, this week I was on task to get the yard done. With that out of the way, I can focus on what really matters: Fishing! This spring has been odd, that's for sure. Rivers were at summer levels, then the rain/snow/sleet and floods came. Sure feels like we have been through that too many times in recent memory. I have had some calls from anglers wondering about the fish in the rivers. No, they did not get flushed out to sea -- trout and salmon (and, in fact, all river-dwelling fish) are shaped to handle fast water. The water on the surface of rivers and streams moves faster than water in the deeper depths. In times of high water, fish adapt to the changing conditions and seek refuge on the bottom, behind rocks and pools. No one knows for sure how much fish may be displaced by high, fast water. I look at it this way: Throughout the year, trout and salmon move up and down our rivers and streams on their own. With that in mind, what's the best strategy for fishing in these high-water conditions? With the water still high but clearing up, I will focus on the pools first. Taking my time, I fish the edges first. The water may be slightly warmer at the edges -- this is also where food (aquatic insects and worms) may have settled. I lean toward larger flies in early spring -- black or olive woolly buggers and larger bead-head nymphs like the hare's ear are definite "go to" flies right now. I'm not opposed to fishing a worm where it is legal -- drifting a worm on a stream of my childhood still has a certain magic that has not faded. Trout ponds open on the 28th of this month -- yeah, that's this Saturday! You bet I will be fishing this weekend. I can't remember the last time I had opening day off to go fishing. More than likely I will mix it up between fly fishing and spin fishing. Having both options will hopefully increase my success. I have a couple of trips scheduled for salmon fishing on the "big lake." From what I've been hearing, things are really rocking on Winnipesaukee. This gets me fired up to hook up with a leaping salmon. Mid-May, just a couple weeks away, brings pure excitement, from giant bluegills moving into the shallows of my favorite pond to the explosive strikes of a northern pike! White perch will also be moving in to spawn. I remember last year, giant schools of white perch roaming the shoals on Winni. When you find them you will have an opportunity not only for white perch, but yellow perch too. The yellow perch follow the schools of white perch so they can feast on their eggs. Big sunfish will also enjoy the feast. Keep only what you can use, release the rest. Great fishing!!! Mark ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> Fisheries staff are still looking for volunteers to help stock Atlantic salmon fry into the Merrimack River basin; the Upper Connecticut River watershed in northern N.H.; and the Monadnock region's Connecticut River watershed. Want to help out? Get times/dates and other information at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2007/News_2007_Q2/Fry_Stock_Vols_040907.htm. NOTE that the Merrimack River dates have changed! If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm. For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2007 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- April 19, 2007 This week, fisheries biologist John Viar says the ice is breaking up rapidly, and great fishing is on tap for New Hampshire's Lakes Region. Sunny weather ahead (finally) this weekend -- I hope you'll all get a chance to get out on the water. AT LAST! Trout stocking has really started! For a list of waterbodies stocked last week, go to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Buy your fishing license and salmon permit online, any time -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. One-day licenses for New Hampshire residents are just $10, and annual licenses -- just $35 and good through Dec. 31 -- are still the best bargain around. Why not bring a new fishing buddy on your next trip! Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H. This Saturday, April 21, from 10 to 3 at Fish and Game (Hazen Drive in Concord), it's the 19th Discover Wild New Hampshire Day! Bring the family and check it out -- we've got live fish, frogs, falcons, and more; 35 conservation exhibitors; and all kinds of hands-on activities like casting and archery for you to enjoy. For more info and a schedule of events, go to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2007/News_2007_Q2/DWNH_Day_040507.htm Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ICE-OUT IS IMMINENT, AND LAKES REGION ANGLERS ARE READY FOR SPRING! By John A. Viar, Fisheries Biologist, Region 2/New Hampton What a difference a year makes! Last year New Hampshire's large-lake anglers were treated to near complete ice-out conditions on the April 1 opener, but this year, Mother Nature appears to have confused April with January (I guess She is getting even for the mild early winter!). Although open water has been at a premium to date, a heavy northwest wind followed by a horrendous multiple-day Nor'easter (which we are still enjoying as of this writing on 4/17) has finally started to open things up, especially on Lake Winnipesaukee. Heavy winds, driving rain, and swelling tributary inflows have done their part to create considerably more room for angling from a variety of watercraft, with select launch areas opening up as well. However, until the remaining ice sheets are gone, word to the wise, be careful in planning your trip -- changing wind directions and shifting ice sheets can cut you off from your original access point. With continued wind in the forecast and warmer, sunnier weather predicted for the weekend, open water availability will only increase and ice-out will not be far off on the Big Lake. Lake Winnipesaukee water temperature is hovering in the 38-degree F range -- full ice-out usually occurs when the lake hits 40-degrees. Again though, wind direction, sun, and rain are all big players in the ice-out game. Speaking of the weather, no matter what the conditions may seem like "at home," when angling by shore or boat in the early season on NH's big lakes, dress for ice fishing conditions -- you will be glad you did. Lake Opechee/Lakeport Dam has been an early season bright spot. An 8+ lbs. rainbow trout taken here was entered into the Trophy Fish Program; landlocked salmon action was hot as well. Most of these fish are "drop-downs" from Lake Winnipesaukee. Some salmon in particular will not be in prime condition in this locale, given their drop-down/current-fighting/relative lack of forage existence, but offer decent action nonetheless. All the recent rain/snow/melting has heavy flows dumping out of the lakes. This should translate to another extended, banner year for shore anglers in the above and similar river locations, as more fish will continue to drop down and conditions should remain suitable further into the spring. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> The following is an important message to all who enjoy New Hampshire's large-lake landlocked salmon fisheries: In our annual fall netting surveys, it has become apparent that hook wounding injuries to landlocked salmon are leading to a reduction in the overall quality of the fishery, especially in heavily-fished Lake Winnipesaukee. For the last two years, 20% of the population has exhibited moderate to severe hook wounding damage (see pictures at the online version of this report, http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing_reports.htm). By age 3, hook-wounded salmon average 1 inch shorter and 0.5 lbs. lighter than their non-hook-wounded counterparts. Salmon must use precious and limited (given our infertile lakes) forage fish/calories to repair tissue damage, rather than growth. Some steps you can take to reduce these negative impacts to help preserve the quality of the fishery into the future, include the following: * Use extreme care when unhooking and releasing fish -- have pliers/hemostats/other gear organized and prepared; minimize handling and exposure time; NEVER shake a fish off the hook, NEVER attempt to unhook a fish suspended in the air, NEVER sharply pull hooks out while the fish is moving and twisting * Use rubber or other "fish friendly" landing nets when catch and releasing, whether from shore, wading, or boat -- rubber nets can even be better than no net, since they allow you to cradle the fish with less stress and quickly and efficiently remove the hook. Rubber nets also prevent loss of slime coat and scales, fin splitting, and other damage * When harvesting/keeping fish, select those more severely wounded * Consider harvesting/keeping a previously hook-wounded fish instead of a more robust fish which is lightly hooked and thus more easily released -- the latter has more potential to become a "trophy"/quality salmon in the future * Remember all hooks can cause damage -- many variables come into play, such as fish size and hooking location, as well as angler experience in proper handling/release techniques ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> Jump start your fishing season by coming to the first-ever "ALL-FISHING EXPO" at Fish and Game in Concord on Saturday, May 5, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free admission! More than 30 exhibitors will be on hand with the latest boats, rods, reels, lures, baits and fishing electronics. Seminars on fishing lures and gear, kayak fishing and hot tips for striped bass action. Everything for average Joes (and Janes) to fishing pros! More info next week. Fisheries staff are still looking for volunteers to help stock Atlantic salmon fry into the Merrimack River basin; the Upper Connecticut River watershed in northern N.H.; and the Monadnock region's Connecticut River watershed. Want to help out? Get times/dates and other information at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2007/News_2007_Q2/Fry_Stock_Vols_040907.htm. NOTE that the Merrimack River dates have changed! If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm. For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2007 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- April 12, 2007 In today's report, hatcheries supervisor Robert Fawcett presents the annual plan for growing and stocking trout throughout the state. Because of continuing winter weather, stocking is getting off to a slow start this year. These waterbodies were stocked last week (April 2-6): Silver Lake in Harrisville, Whittemore Lake in Bennington, Hunts Pond in Hancock, Mont Williams Pond in Weare and Frenches Pond in Henniker. When the stocking trucks really start rolling, we'll keep you up-to-date! Buy your fishing license and salmon permit online, any time -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. One-day licenses for New Hampshire residents are just $10, and annual licenses -- just $35 and good through Dec. 31 -- are still the best bargain around. Why not bring a new fishing buddy on your next trip! Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H. Fisheries staff are looking for volunteers to help stock Atlantic salmon fry into the Merrimack River basin; the Upper Connecticut River watershed in northern N.H.; and the Monadnock region's Connecticut River watershed. Want to help out? Get times/dates and other information at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2007/News_2007_Q2/Fry_Stock_Vols_040907.htm. Jump start your fishing season by coming to the first-ever "ALL-FISHING EXPO" at Fish and Game in Concord on Saturday, May 5, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free admission! More than 30 exhibitors will be on hand with the latest boats, rods, reels, lures and baits. Seminars on fishing lures and gear, kayak fishing and hot tips for striped bass action. Everything for average Joes to fishing pros! Stay tuned for more info. If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm. For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm. Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> WE HAVE WHAT YOU'RE LOOKING FOR: QUALITY HATCHERY-RAISED TROUT By Robert Fawcett, Supervisor of Hatcheries New Hampshire Fish and Game's Fish Culturists and Conservation Officers are releasing over 200 tons of hatchery-raised trout this spring. Whether you fish for trout in waters open to fishing year-round or trout ponds that open the traditional fourth Saturday in April (April 28 this year), Inland Fisheries Division Management will provide excellent angling opportunities. Stocking is starting later than last year; there's still some ice to melt and more winter weather on tap today for most of New Hampshire. You can follow the weekly stocking at the Fish and Game website: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. THE PLAN FOR 2007 STOCKING CALLS FOR 445,645 Eastern brook trout yearlings: 57.2% to streams, 42.8% to lakes and ponds; 15,615 two-year-olds: 34.7% to streams, 65.3% to lakes and ponds; 1,760 "three-year-pluses" (surplus brood fish): 35.8% to streams, 64.2% to lakes and ponds. Also: * 277,105 rainbow trout (RT) yearlings: about 40% to streams, 60% to lakes and ponds. * 129,600 brown trout (BT) yearlings: 88,940 to streams, 40,660 to lakes and ponds. * 5,000 tiger trout (TT). Tigers are a cross between a brook trout male and a brown trout female, and have the potential to keep growing to a trophy size if not hooked and cooked at a younger age. They are a cross between two not very closely related species, so a small percentage survive to get stocked. This year's brook trout are around 11-12 inches, the rainbows are 12-14", and the brown trout are 10-11". There will definitely be some nice big rainbow trout surprises in the southwestern region again this year. Look for four-pounders, and maybe even larger, because some of the fish in the pond have evaded the seine for a number of years. The Fish Culturist's mission is "to produce fish of the right species, size, and timing to fill the gaps in the natural eco-cycle, to contribute to management goals for a wide variety of users, and restoration of self-sustaining native fish populations." Check out the number, age and species of fish to be produced at New Hampshire's six state fish hatcheries in 2007-2008 in a chart available in the online version of this report: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/Fishing_Reports/Fishing_Reports_2007/fishing_report_040507.htm. FISH CULTURE 101: If a waterbody has plenty of natural habitat capacity to meet all phases of a fish species' life cycle, then fish populations are self-sustaining and don't need to be supplemented with hatchery-reared fish. But where there are gaps in that natural habitat capacity, hatchery resources are used to provide a fishery that would otherwise not occur for some reason -- for example, lack of adequate habitat for spawning or juvenile rearing, but plenty of habitat for grow out. "Room and board" provided by a hatchery stand in for natural habitat and food organisms. Fish culturists nurture fish eggs through the fry and fingerling stages, until they're large enough to be released and survive in lakes, ponds and rivers. This helps the cycle complete itself, and allows New Hampshire's trout and salmon fisheries to remain productive. KEEPING TROUT HEALTHY: Fish and Game's new fish pathologist, Dr. Joel A. Bader, has identified some bacteria responsible for a significant loss of fish shortly after initial feeding due to disease. We have applied for an investigative new animal drug (INAD) permit to treat with chloramine-t to improve trout survival. Fish Culturists face challenges every year, and this next year will be no exception, having to manage around pipe consolidation projects, and installation of 24-hour composite sampler vaults, valves, and buildings at Berlin, Warren, and Twin Mountain hatcheries for treatment and monitoring of discharge water. Composite sampling methods must begin at all three of these facilities after November 30, 2007. Environmental regulations limit the use of chemical treatments. Hopefully the new drug, and having Joel's expert help, will reduce some of the challenges. The department plans to construct a new water supply pipeline to Powder Mill Hatchery, and install ultra-violet treatment units to reduce our need for chemical therapeutants to control parasites and disease at our largest production facility. All of these projects are necessary for future trout production. Bryant Pond in Canaan was lost to trout management because we do not stock unless there is public access, and, unfortunately, public access was lost at Bryant Pond during this past year. Notification occurred after this year's stocking schedules went out, so 640 EBT yearlings will no longer be needed for management of that waterbody. You can help preserve access for fishing and hunting by keeping in mind basic good landowner relations. For a new "Angler's Guide to Landowner Relations," visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/anglers_landowner_relations.htm. Your local hatchery workers do a fantastic job of producing and distributing the large put-and-take trout you will have the opportunity to catch this spring. There's a lot going on behind the scenes to keep New Hampshire's fisheries healthy -- and anglers happy. Have a good year of fishing and enjoying wild New Hampshire. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2007 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- April 5, 2007 It's here at last! Welcome to a new season of the NH Weekly Fishing Report. If you're new to this list, this is the first weekly fishing report for 2007. Each week from now through September, we'll bring you fishing news and information from one of our regional fisheries staff members, along with a link to the most current stocking report (during stocking season). If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm. ***Today's report brings the brand-new 2007 Fishing Forecast for all regions of the state -- it's too big to squeeze into this e-mail, but all you have to do is follow this link to the Fish and Game website: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing_forecast.htm Fish stocking began last week, with just a handful of Rockingham County sites stocked: The Exeter River in Chester, Fremont, and Sandown; the North Branch in Candia; the Piscassic River in Fremont; and the Little and Stingy rivers in Nottingham. The regular stocking report will begin in the next couple of weeks, weather permitting. For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm. Buy your fishing license and salmon permit online, any time -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. One-day licenses for New Hampshire residents are just $10, and annual licenses -- just $35 and good through Dec. 31 -- are still the best bargain around. Why not bring a new fishing buddy on your next trip! Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H. Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for. -- Copyright 2007 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301 N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- September 28, 2006 This is it, folks: our last fishing report for 2006, with a roundup from the Lakes region and the Southwest part of NH. Thanks for reading, have a terrific fall season, and stay tuned for ice-fishing action this winter. Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. And now it's easy to bring a friend along -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FALL FISHING OPPORTUNITIES IN THE LAKES REGION By John A. Viar, Fisheries Biologist, Region 2/New Hampton Well, another banner year has gone by for Lakes Region anglers -- or has it? Fall is one of the best and most overlooked times of year to fish, so get out there and enjoy the colors of the season. In nearly every case you will also find the solitude you longed for during the busy summer recreational season! Cooling waters and hungry pre-spawn trout can make for some exciting fishing before the close of the season on October 15 in designated trout ponds and rivers/streams (before heading to your fall fishing destination, always be sure to check the Freshwater Fishing Digest for seasons and special regulations). For fly anglers, Sky Pond in New Hampton and Upper Hall Pond in Sandwich will produce plenty of brookies. For spin casting, check out Spectacle Pond in Groton or Saltmarsh Pond in Gilford. Or take a hike into one of the many remote trout ponds (http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/trout_remote.htm) for the most brilliantly colored brookies you will ever lay eyes upon -- their vivid good looks will compete with the fall foliage encountered during your adventure. Many savvy anglers know fall bass fishing means some of the largest specimens of the year -- smallmouth and largemouth are looking for calories, and lots of them, before the long winter. Many patterns emerge, often within the same lake. Winnipesaukee, Squam, or other large-lake smallies may be feasting on smelt in deep water or combing shallower haunts for schools of juvenile yellow and white perch. Largemouth are often found on the edge of remaining weedlines, looking for that last big meal -- make sure to be there to offer it up! Fall is synonymous with toothy predator time - some of the largest chain pickerel and northern pike of the season. Much to the demise of anything capable of being swallowed, the cooling temperatures put these giant torpedoes on search and destroy missions. Many of the same waterbodies containing bass will harbor excellent chain pickerel populations, including and particularly the back bays of the large lakes such as Winnipesaukee; for northerns, head to the Connecticut River backwaters and main-river weed edges in the Hanover, Piermont, and other areas. Don't overlook general regulation ponds (open to all fishing year-round), which receive stocked trout (http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/year_round_trout_ponds.htm) for a fall "combo" trip. Is there a better "Indian Summer" day than one spent trolling for rainbows in the morning hours, then switching to casting for smallmouth bass on their fall-feeding binge? Waterbodies for such an adventure include Waukewan Lake in Meredith and Little Sunapee Lake in New London. For those who do not ice fish, fall fishing memories captured and recalled will sustain you through the long winter months, so be sure to make them. For those with a growing case of "hard water fever" -- fear not, the cure is coming soon! The modernization of ice fishing, from winter clothing to transportation to fishing technology, has made winter the favorite fishing season for many experienced anglers...stay tuned for why! ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> COOLING WATERS HEAT UP FISHING IN SOUTHWEST NH By Gabe Gries and Michael Racine, Fisheries Biologists, Region 4/Keene With the approach of increasingly cooler weather, thoughts start to turn towards fall hunting opportunities. However, some of the best open-water fishing of the year is yet to come. As water temperatures start to cool, angling for many sport fish species begins to heat up. Now is the time to hit those trout ponds. The last few nights I have fished, I have seen many trout rising just before dusk. Now is the time for those of you who don't have equipment to troll deep to get out there for some great "surface feeding" action. That being said, trout are also being caught in good numbers while trolling on Granite Lake (Stoddard), Silver Lake (Harrisville) and Spofford Lake (Chesterfield). A friend recently had a fish on at Nubanusit Lake (Hancock) that straightened out the hook out on his streamer. He said it had to be a fish as he was only 10 feet down in 40 feet of water. Probably a big laker. Speaking of Nubanusit Lake, the landlocked salmon that were stocked this spring (for the first time in 25 years) as 5-6" fish have been growing well. Anglers have reported catching (and releasing) a few salmon that are running 10 - 14 inches! This is tremendous growth and means they have more than doubled their size in less than six months in the lake. A recent Fish and Game forage fish survey showed that rainbow smelt populations are at excellent levels. If growth rates and survival of these salmon continue to be high, we can expect some excellent salmon fishing in Southwestern NH in a couple years. Please remember that we are stocking low numbers of salmon (~300 per year) in order to maximize growth while still protecting the smelt population. Accordingly, it is imperative to handle all salmon with care and release them as quickly as possible. Angling on the Connecticut River should be fantastic in the coming weeks. Walleye will begin moving towards the tributary mouths and smallmouth bass will be centered on some of the deep holes. Find the right habitat and you will find some nice fish. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- September 21, 2006 With the official beginning of fall tomorrow (9/22), it's time to think about the fishing opportunities that remain to us this season, and get out there to enjoy fishing in the crisp air! Today, fall-stocking news from Bob Fawcett, our hatcheries supervisor; brood stock Atlantic salmon tips from anadromous fisheries biologist Jon Greenwood; and a terrible teddy-bear tale from Milford hatchery. Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. And now it's easy to bring a friend along -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FALL TROUT STOCKING By Robert S. Fawcett, Hatchery Supervisor Twenty-six (26) lakes and ponds are set to be stocked with trout in September or October. That will be around 6,237 rainbow trout "almost yearlings" (8 or 9-inchers) and 4,993 two-year-olds (11 to 14-inchers), 2,820 eastern brook trout (EBT) yearlings, 3,960 EBT Kennebago-strain fall fingerlings (3 or 4-inchers), 973 tiger trout (10+ inchers) and 250 brown trout (13+ inchers). FOR A CHART OF WATERBODIES managed with fall stocking, go to the online version of this report at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/Fishing_Reports/Fishing_Reports_2006/fishing_report_092106.htm. Tiger trout are stocked in Lucas and Willard ponds, and Laurel Lake also receives brown trout. Fish are stocked in the fall for a variety of reasons, though most are intended to "recruit" into the winter ice fishery. The tiger trout take longer to reach a larger size at time of stocking for better survival and a more pleasing size fish for the angler. They are very difficult to raise successfully, because they are a cross between two different genuses, and have poor initial survival in the hatchery. Those few that do survive have the potential to make up for that in growth to a trophy size with time. In terms of research, fall stocking can help the regional biologists answer questions about subsequent performance of the fish after they are stocked. They mark the fish and then perform creel surveys to figure out what percentage of what fish are caught through the ice. Gabe Gries at Fish and Game's Region 4 office in Keene (603-352-9669) can tell you that 87% of the fish caught last winter at Laurel Lake in Fitzwilliam were from spring stocking and 13% were from fall stocking. Some of those facts can be useful in making management decisions. Mostly, the fall stocking is simply to make sure you have the opportunity to catch some trout this winter. It represents a change from years ago when any trout caught in the winter ice fishery were just hold-overs from spring stocking, and no special effort was made for the ice angler. Many anglers look forward to ice fishing for trout, in waters that remain open to the taking of trout year round. Make sure and check the Fishing Digest for which ones remain open, or check: *Lakes and ponds managed for trout without a closed season -- http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/year_round_trout_ponds.htm * Rivers and streams managed for trout without a closed season -- http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/year_round_trout_streams.htm ><> FALL FISHING FOR BROOD STOCK SALMON STARTS SOON By Jon Greenwood, Coordinator, Merrimack River Anadromous Fish Restoration Program If you're looking for some challenging catch-and-release sport fishing while you're out enjoying the beautiful fall weather, head to the Merrimack and Pemigewasset rivers to hook the "King of Fish" -- Atlantic salmon. Fisheries statistics tell us that the success rate for catching salmon is higher in the fall than in the spring season, thanks to better wading conditions and cooler temperatures. This fall, Fish and Game will stock the Merrimack and Pemigewasset rivers with salmon -- about 700 brood stock Atlantic salmon averaging 2 pounds each. You might also hook into some of the brood stock salmon stocked last spring. Expect some great fishing by the first week in October. Note that the brood stock Atlantic salmon season runs year-round, but all salmon caught from October 1 through March 31 must be released immediately. Brood stock anglers need a New Hampshire fishing license and an $11 Atlantic salmon permit; both can be purchased online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from license agents statewide. All proceeds from salmon stamp permits help support the Merrimack River Anadromous Fish Restoration Program, created in 1993 by Fish and Game in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to help restore migratory fish populations to the Merrimack River watershed. FLY FISHING FOR SALMON The brood stock salmon released in the Merrimack give New Hampshire anglers an exciting recreational fishing opportunity. This fall, the fish will be stocked only in the Franklin-Bristol area. The first good spots to are below the Ayers Island Dam in Bristol along the Coolidge Woods Road, the Profile Falls Recreation Area (the access site near the Smith River confluence) and below the Eastman Falls Dam in Franklin. Because salmon are migratory, anglers should also try fishing downstream as the season progresses: in the Stirrup Iron Brook area (Boscawen), the Contoocook River in Penacook, at Sewall's Falls Recreational Park in Concord and below the Garvins Falls Dam in Bow and the Hooksett Dam. Find more information and an access map at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/atlantic_salmon.htm. Fly anglers can use traditional salmon flies or trout streamers such as Grey Ghosts, Mickey Finns or any patterns that imitate small baitfish. Fly casters pursuing broodstock salmon this fall should consider using lighter, 5- to 7-weight rods with floating or sink tip lines, depending on river flow conditions, so they can experience the feel of the fight. Some recommended flies include traditional hair wing flies and streamers. Some patterns to try are green highlander, black bear green butt, cosseboom, soft hackle marabou and muddler minnow. Fishing nymphs has also proven successful. SPIN FISHING ANGLERS As the season progresses, spin casters should try the area from the town of Bow to the Massachusetts/New Hampshire border, which is open to both fly and spin fishing. The best areas include the section of the river just below the Garvin's Falls Dam in Bow, and below the Hooksett Dam, where the river is fast flowing. Fishing success in these two areas is best angling from a boat. Excellent boat access is provided at Public Service of New Hampshire's ramp on the west side of the river in Bow and at the state-owned ramp on the east side of the river below the Hooksett Dam. Spin-casting anglers would do best to use medium 6 and a half to 7-foot rods. Recommended lures include: Little Cleo (chrome, chartreuse colors), Blue Fox Pixie, Trixie (silver, chartreuse), Rapala's CD model, and large in line spinners such as Mepps Aglia (nickel, green, yellow) and rooster tails. Remember that the use of lures for the taking salmon is by the use of an artificial lure having no more than ONE hook point! A solution for lures sold with treble hooks is to either cut off two of the hook points or replace the treble hook with a #6 bait holder hook. RECORD YOUR SUCCESS Brood stock salmon anglers can help the program by reporting their catch to Fish and Game; fishing diaries submitted by January 15, 2007, are eligible for a prize drawing. Last year's three winners took home a salmon fly rod, a salmon fly reel (both donated by Kittery Trading Post) and a framed Atlantic salmon print from Fish and Game. So get out and enjoy New Hampshire's fall colors and great fall fishing! ><> TEDDY BEAR KILLS FISH! By Robert S. Fawcett, Hatchery Supervisor On Wednesday, September 6, 2006, a TEDDY BEAR released by person or persons unknown stopped the flow of water to a circular pool at Milford Hatchery, killing 2,500 rainbow trout. WATER FLOW in hatcheries IS LIFE SUPPORT TO THE FISH! Stop that flow, which delivers the dissolved oxygen required for fish respiration, and the fish suffocate and die. RELEASE OF ANY TEDDY BEARS into fish hatchery water IS NOT PERMITTED. Please think before you act. If a teddy bear is dropped accidentally, find a fish culturist and tell them quickly, so they might save your teddy bear, and keep it from becoming a killer. Thank you. ED. NOTE: A photograph of the accused appears on the online version of this report at http://www.FishNH.com. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- September 14, 2006 This week, fish habitat biologist John Magee offers recent highlights from his work in the Fish Habitat Program. Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. And now it's easy to bring a friend along -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FLOOD IMPACTS ON FISHERIES HABITATS By John Magee, Fish Habitat Biologist The Fish Habitat Program has been busy this year. Here's an update on three recent projects: ><> NASH STREAM We have been conducting habitat, water quality, stream morphology and fish survey assessments in Nash Stream and its tributaries (Coos County) with Trout Unlimited; the US Fish & Wildlife Service; and the Department of Resources and Economic Development's Division of Forests and Lands, which owns and manages Nash Stream State Forest. From the data we collected in 2005 and 2006, it is apparent that there is very little wild brook trout production in Nash Stream; this is due to the poor habitat that was the result of the catastrophic flood that occurred when the Nash Bog Pond dam failed in 1969, and the human activities that followed. There is widespread evidence that after the flood, Nash Stream was straightened and berms were created along it using large machinery in an attempt to control future flooding. What this did was effectively preclude brook trout from reestablishing wild populations there. In contrast, the tributaries have abundant wild brook trout, although some of the culverts through which the tributaries flow block fish passage (which is necessary for brook trout, as they tend to migrate upstream just prior to spawning). Still, those wild brook trout have been able to find enough spawning habitat to keep those populations robust. We recently conducted an assessment of the ability of brook trout to migrate upstream through two culverts on Farrer Brook. We found that one culvert appears to completely block wild brook trout, and at the other culvert, only a single wild brook trout migrated through it. We intend to remove one culvert entirely, and replace the other culvert with a much larger crossing, potentially a small bridge. Overall, the restoration work for the project will entail removing or replacing the stream crossings that currently have impacts on fish passage and/or stream morphology, and instream and floodplain work that will provide suitable habitat for wild brook trout. The project will continue through 2008. ><> COLD RIVER WATERSHED We've also been working on a very large restoration project of the Cold River and Warren and Bowers brooks in the Cold River Watershed, principally in Alstead and Acworth. In early October 2005, during the heavy rains and flooding, a culvert on Warren Brook become plugged with sediment and wood (both natural components of stream ecosystems). Immediately upstream of the culvert, a pond formed in a matter of hours. Eventually, the culvert failed, and the floodwaters raged down Warren Brook and into the Cold River. Several people died in the floodwaters, and many people lost their homes and property. The flood also destroyed much of Warren Brook and the Cold River. We have been working with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), NH Department of Environmental Services (NHDES), NH Department of Transportation (NHDOT), the Towns of Alstead and Acworth and the Cold River Local Advisory Committee to develop a watershed restoration plan for the area. NRCS received a $7.7 million appropriation for the restoration of these waterbodies, and NRCS, NHDES, NHDOT and NH Fish and Game funded a study to determine which specific restoration activities should occur using the $7.7 million. It is anticipated that some restoration work, which will likely entail rebuilding the stream channel and floodplain, will begin in November 2006. Future work will continue into 2007 and possibly 2008. This particular project is moving at a very fast pace and is receiving overwhelming support, not to mention the largest stream restoration award in the state. ><> SUNCOOK RIVER During the May 2006 floods, the Suncook River formed a new channel in Epsom. The floodwaters rose as high as they did because two dams impound a section of the river in Epsom downstream of Route 4. The waters spilled over the bank about 1,000 feet upstream of the dams and flowed through a gravel pit before reentering the river another 5,000 feet downstream. Because of the highly erodable soils and the gravel pit being at such a low elevation and so close to the river, the bottom of the new channel began to erode in an upstream direction, and eventually, all the water in the Suncook River flowed through the new channel. Enormous amounts of sand eroded from this area and were deposited on agricultural fields and along the banks and in the river downstream for many miles. The Suncook River in this area is very different than it was before these floods. NHDES is taking the lead, with Fish and Game as a partner, to secure funds to assess the current condition of the river's morphology and restoration potential. We are hopeful that assessment work will begin in early 2007 with some restoration work in the same year. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- September 7, 2006 This week, walk the banks of an unnamed trout stream with biologist Andy Schafermeyer -- then go out to find a few secret spots of your own in the New Hampshire woods! Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. And now it's easy to bring a friend along -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> SIGNS OF FALL: COOL AIR, COOL WATER, THE RED BELLY OF A WILD BROOK TROUT By Andrew Schafermeyer, Fisheries Biologist, Region 1/Lancaster One of the true advantages to fishing in September is the scenery. As evening approaches and the trees on the horizon are mirrored on the water, fishing takes on a whole new feeling. One usually has to put on a jacket or sweatshirt, fingers get cold after landing a fish, and darkness completely falls by 8 o'clock. Every glimpse of a dark red brook trout belly is a reminder that fishing in New Hampshire is an awesome experience. One of my "can't-miss" fall destinations is a small and winding brook in Lancaster that usually produces some of the nicest-looking trout that I see all year. Throughout the summer, this unnamed brook is not a picturesque trout stream. Flows can be low and water temperatures reach levels that that push fish to cooler, shadier tributaries. In September and October, however, this brook picks up some volume and aggressive fish can be found with some regularity. I usually bring the smallest fly-rod I own -- a seven-foot four-weight. This allows for short, controlled casts and magnifies the intensity of the fight when I hook up. I start with attractor patterns on the surface unless I see a certain insect being eaten with some frequency. I like small Royal Wulffs and Humpys with brightly colored bellies. This approach allows me to search out feeding fish and get a grasp on what type of habitat (pools, glides, etc...) the trout seem to prefer. Walking a large stretch of stream gives me tons of opportunities for fish. I have never encountered another fisherman, and I'm always scouting out bird-hunting covers as I walk. The most important thing to bring into this stream is a particular mind-set concerning the size of the fish. Because of the micro-habitat, brook trout are only going to grow as large as the parameters let them. Therefore, a six-inch trout may be five or six years old and, by all standards, a trophy. New Hampshire's summers don't give these fish as long a growing season as other, larger New England waterbodies. Add to this the somewhat sterile conditions that arise from water flowing through a landscape dominated by granite, and the picture becomes clearer. This particular trout stream is similar to hundreds of others that snake their way through our landscape. Walking a few miles of one is a great way to connect with trout populations that are self-sustaining and yet very delicate. The fish are wily and landing one brings an honest sense of accomplishment. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- August 31, 2006 This week, fisheries biologist Mike Racine brings us a roundup of sampling results, to show what warmwater fish species you're likely to hook in five local waterbodies. Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. And now it's easy to bring a friend along -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish stocking activity is done for the summer. Get past stocking info at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ABUNDANT WARMWATER FISH IN SAMPLED WATERS By Mike Racine, Fisheries Biologist -- Region 4/Keene Some fine warmwater fishing is available to anglers in the Monadnock/Upper Valley region of New Hampshire, based on our warmwater sampling research from this summer. The goal of the NH Fish and Game Department's Warmwater Program is to sustain and improve warmwater fish populations to provide recreational fishing opportunities in an ecologically sound manner. One way we meet this goal is by conducting summertime assessments of warmwater lakes, ponds and rivers in New Hampshire. These surveys are conducted at night, using an electrofishing boat to temporarily stun the fish in a given area. We capture the fish, record the species, collect length and weight data, and then release them back into the water. Here are some of the fishing waters we sampled: ><> DREW LAKE (Hopkinton): This waterbody is part of the Army Corps of Engineers Hopkinton-Everett Lake Project and is located 15 minutes west of Concord just off of RT 9 to Upper Sugar Hill Road. Parking is limited to a few trailers and the gravel ramp is adequate for larger boats. Sport fish sampled included numerous large pickerel and largemouth bass, and moderate amounts of edible-size panfish (black crappie, bluegill, sunfish) and yellow perch. Non-sport fish sampled consisted solely of golden shiners. The channel at the south end of the lake produced fish in highest numbers. Hopkinton Lake, part of the same waterway as Drew Lake but separated by a small swamp, was sampled in 2005. Comparatively, very similar size and numbers of species were sampled in each lake with the difference being that common white suckers and brown bullheads were sampled in Hopkinton Lake. ><> FRANKLIN PIERCE LAKE (Hillsboro): This waterbody has a good-quality gravel ramp (Rte. 9 to Manahan Park) with parking for 7-10 trailers. Sportfish sampled include numerous white perch, pickerel, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, panfish (black crappie, bluegill, common sunfish) and brown bullhead. Non-sport fish sampled were common white sucker and fallfish. White perch dominated our sampling efforts. They comprised over 60% of all fish sampled. Yellow perch were also numerous, comprising about 20% of all fish sampled. The majority of white perch and yellow perch were small to medium sized. Bass tournament data consistently show that largemouth bass dominate the catch over smallmouth, and that largemouth average 2-3 pounds. Shoreline fishing is limited due to moderate development. ><> HALFMOON POND (Hancock): There are no houses on this 65-acre pond and only one camp. Expect serenity at its best. This waterbody is a fantastic yellow perch and sunfish fishery. These species comprised nearly 80% of all fish sampled and most were of edible size. Anglers can also expect good bass action. Other sportfish species sampled were largemouth bass (most were 10"-14", several around 17", and one over 20"), pickerel, and yellow bullhead. The gravel ramp has a moderate drop off. Parking is limited to a few cars and trailers. Don't overlook the channel on the far side from the ramp and the deeper holes by the bridge pylons during the hot summer days. ><> HORACE LAKE (Weare): This waterbody has a decent paved launch. The access is through a locked gate that opens at 8am and closes at 9pm. The rocky shoreline has occasional stumps and submerged logs. Sportfish sampled included abundant numbers of largemouth and smallmouth bass. We also sampled moderate numbers of panfish including black crappie, bluegill, and common sunfish. Other fish species present in this waterbody are yellow bullhead, yellow perch and stocked brown trout (the stocked trout create a popular summer and winter fishery for local anglers). Shoreline fishing is limited due to moderate development. ><> POWDER MILL POND (Hancock): This waterbody, also known as Bennington Bog, is a dammed portion of the Contoocook River and has moderate vegetative cover, few submerged logs and woody debris, and very few rocks. There is a state-owned ramp on the south side of the lake suitable for any size boat and parking for many trailers. Our sampling effort produced the largest numbers of all species for all waterbodies sampled this year. Panfishing here is fantastic! Panfish sampled were black crappie, bluegill (notable in terms of both size and numbers), and common sunfish. We also sampled yellow perch and white perch. Other sportfish species sampled were smaller numbers of medium and large pickerel and all sizes of bass. An average of about five bass tournaments are held here each year and largemouth is the predominant bass species caught. Largemouth entered in tournaments average around 2-2.5 pounds with smallmouth averaging about 2 pounds. This waterbody is relatively shallow. Beware of the frequent humps from 8 feet to less than 2 feet in the middle of the waterbody. Either your prop or your fish finder will let you know they are there. Shoreline fishing and car top access is possible along Rte. 202. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- AUGUST 24, 2006 Biologist John Viar is out straight on the Forager survey boat sampling forage fish populations in the Lakes Region at night, but he took time out to send us this report. Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. And now it's easy to bring a friend along -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish stocking activity is done for the summer. Get past stocking info at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ------------- THE KEY TO NEW HAMPSHIRE'S LARGE-LAKE FISHERIES by John A. Viar, Region 2 Fisheries Biologist When you're fixed on hooking big fish, it's easy to forget about the small fish ... the really small fish. And those are the important ones -- the forage fish smaller than your pinky. Without rainbow smelt, managing salmonids (landlocked salmon, lake and rainbow trout) in our large lakes would be difficult, if not impossible. Although lake and rainbow trout will prey on a variety of food items, salmon ultimately depend on a thriving population of smelt. The growth rate and body condition of our large lake salmonids is highly proportionate to the abundance of smelt. FISH SANDWICH Successful anglers on New Hampshire's large lakes like Winnipesaukee have reported most activity from 30-50 feet. There's a good reason for that. Experienced anglers know this band of water represents the thermocline, a layer of quickly descending water temperatures sandwiched between warmer surface and colder bottom water - a key to consistently finding mid- to late-summer salmonid action. A BALANCING ACT Smelt populations are extremely difficult to manage. A variety of natural factors such as spring precipitation and nutrient levels can affect year-class strength and overall abundance. Young-of-the-year/age-0 smelt (born this spring, about 1.5-2 inches long right now) account for the bulk of most New Hampshire smelt populations. Their availability is critical, since salmon, particularly age-1 fish stocked earlier in the year, need them for rapid growth. Another important pelagic (open water) forage fish in New Hampshire's large lakes is juvenile white perch, which are also readily consumed by salmonids. Balancing this predator/prey relationship is imperative -- which is why we need an estimate of forage fish abundance in order to stock appropriate numbers of salmon. If too many salmon are stocked, forage is decimated and salmon growth and body condition suffers greatly. When smelt populations are healthy and stable, the typical stocking rate is about 0.5 salmon per acre of surface water. In Winnipesaukee, for example, this translates to about 22,000 yearling salmon stocked each spring - again, ultimately dependent upon forage fish resources. WELCOME ABOARD The tool for the job is called the Forager, a converted 22-foot Eastern lobster boat that has been set up to survey our large-lake forage-fish populations. The boat cruises along transect lines while a sophisticated hydroacoustic unit (sonar "fish-finder") counts the number and size of fish targets. This tells us how many forage fish there are. But to verify the species and condition, we use a large trawl net designed to catch small young-of-the-year fish. As you may expect, most fish caught are smelt, but we also catch young-of-the-year white and yellow perch. Although we trawl slowly, and bigger fish are able to avoid the net for the most part, occasionally we catch adult smelt and the odd lake trout or salmon. [Editor's note: Visit the online version of this report to see what these tiny fish look like, as as well as an "echogram" reading that tells biologists how forage fish are dispersed.] All work is done at night, when smelt move into the thermocline to feed on zooplankton (tiny animals). Most smelt hold near bottom during the brightest daylight hours to try to avoid predation by salmonids (smelt are sitting ducks high in the water column). This explains why dusk and particularly dawn are usually the best fishing times. Salmonids are primarily sight feeders, so limited feeding occurs at night. By dawn, they're voracious and ready for a hearty breakfast. The first traces of daylight let them hunt effectively, slashing upward (most predatory fish prefer to feed upward, since their prey has a blind spot directly beneath them) into schools of smelt, which are just beginning to descend to the bottom, after their night of feeding. To date, we have completed sampling on Newfound Lake and nearly completed Lake Winnipesaukee. Much number crunching lies ahead, but both lakes look very good at first glance. At Winnipesaukee in particular, age-0 smelt and white perch appear to be in excellent abundance. Other lakes to be surveyed in the next several weeks include Big Squam, Winnisquam and Sunapee. For more information on New Hampshire's large-lake fisheries management, feel free to contact Fish and Game's Region 2 Fisheries Biologists John A. Viar at jviar@nhfgd.org or Donald R. Miller at dmiller@nhfgd.org. - ### - -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- August 17, 2006 It's never too soon to start reminiscing about recent fishing experiences. Mark Beauchesne gives us a summer rundown, and encouragement to toss a line in an often-overlooked river at the heart of the Granite State... Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. And now it's easy to bring a friend along -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish stocking activity is done for the summer. We'll have lots more fish for you next March... stay tuned. Get past stocking info at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> DESTINATION: MERRIMACK By Mark Beauchesne, Advertising and Promotions Coordinator Two months filled with fishing have passed since my last report. June was outstanding despite dealing with the rains. I spend some quality time in the Great North Woods. Fishing streams has always been special for me. A trip to Pittsburg to fish the upper Connecticut was just what I needed. I camped out at Lake Francis, just below the inlet -- the inlet proved to be very good fishing. I landed several fish in a short time. All of the fish were caught on an elk-hair caddis fly. In this short stretch of stream, I managed to catch brook trout, rainbows and salmon. My trout fishing continued with a few trips to Willard Pond. The "hex" hatch is what I was hoping to be part of -- this giant mayfly typically hatches during the last week of June through the second week of July. Well, this year I was too early, and the hex phenomenon happened after my trip to Willard. But, all was not lost. I spent several warm June evenings in the float tube enjoying this wonderful pond. Willard has quickly become one of my favorites -- not only because of the fish, but for the wildlife watching opportunities and pure serenity. Bass fishing lived up to its consistency and excitement on our big lakes. I fished Winni more this year than in previous Junes and Julys. June was great... between the raindrops. Catching fish on topwater baits is just too exciting. A bonus sighting added to this trip. We all know how wonderfully clear Winni is... I find myself enchanted by the water clarity, and I'm always looking into the lake. Sometimes I see fish, other times rocks, sand and the occasional turtle. This time I was taken aback by what I witnessed. I was watching the bottom of the lake. I was seeing the color of sand that ran into a darker bottom. Then the bottom moved in unison. White perch! A huge school of them. What a thrill to see so many fish! There are some that say "whities" are not as plentiful as they used to be. I disagree. I encountered several more schools of white perch that day. Later in July, I encountered more white perch. This time on the end of my line! We hooked into several quality white perch fishing a crawler on the bottom in 17 feet of water. We were after smallies, but this was even better. I made several trips on the Merrimack River in both Concord and Manchester. What a resource this river is. Our Concord trip produced a mixed bag of perch, bluegills, bass and crappies. Once we found the crappies, we focused on them. The hot lure: a small jig head tipped with a fire-tiger-colored curl-tail grub. I landed crappie after crappie on this odd-colored bait. Hey, it worked -- who care what it looks like. I fish with my friend Chris on the Merrimack in Manchester -- we fished right behind the ballpark. Soft plastic baits and the grub produced high numbers of hard-charging river smallies. This is an easy place to fish from shore. It was my first time fishing in a true "urban" setting -- but I couldn't have noticed that I was in the middle of a big city. The beauty of the river is fantastic. The trips to the Merrimack really reinforced what I already knew. The river has excellent opportunities for land-based anglers to catch quality fish. The river is in your backyard. For many of us we drive over it on our way to our fishing destinations. Don't overlook the river. I will be making several more trips there before the season has changed. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- August 10, 2006 Kevin Sullivan reports from the New Hampshire seacoast this week, where stripers are starting to pass though and winter flounder are the surprise summer hit. Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. And now it's easy to bring a friend along -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish stocking activity is done for the summer. We'll have lots more fish for you next March... stay tuned. Get past stocking info at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> RETURN OF THE BLACKBACK! By Kevin Sullivan, marine biologist, Region 3/Durham It has happened again. Summer has sped up and we are rapidly approaching fall. As the vacations draw to a close and kids head back to school, the stripers will start to head south. It's time to get out there before another season is behind us. As August fishing goes, this year has been pretty good to us. Strong numbers of stripers are providing good action on the coast for this time of year. With the onset of fall weather towards the end of the month, look for an influx of fresh stripers returning from their northern feeding grounds. In the meantime, here are some tips to increase your success. For bait fishermen, it can be very beneficial this time of year to work hard to find live bait. If you have trouble finding bait on your own, take some live eels along. You can purchase eels at local bait stores such as Taylor's Trading Post in Madbury and Suds N' Soda in Greenland. It often takes live bait at this time of year to convince finicky fish to strike. Make sure to have some wire leaders with you in case the bluefish are on the scene. Overall, the bluefishing this season has been "spotty," with reports of fantastic catches on some mornings, and when boats return the same afternoon the fish seem to have disappeared. The best tip I can give you for fishing these swimming eating machines is to CHUM! Like stripers (and many tourists for that matter), these fish are preparing for the long trip home and need to get that last meal in for every bit of valuable energy they can obtain. Periodically tossing over a mixture of chopped fish, fish oil and -- believe it or not -- corn, usually works well to grab their attention and appetite. I also enjoy "spot-fishing" blues by searching for breaking baitfish and diving terns around areas that I know tend to attract blues, such as White Island, the back side of Cedar Island, and off Rye Ledge. Get within casting distance and try throwing a floating rapala-style lure or a surface popper right into the middle of the frenzy, and believe me that lure won't last long. I have heard reports of blues being taken this year even up in the Great Bay Estuary on live eels and by anglers trolling near Goat Island and Durham Point. We don't get this opportunity every year, so get out and take advantage of it. In my opinion, the story of the year has been the winter flounder fishing. A recent article in the Hawkeye has one of our own wildlife biologists, Eric Orff, detailing a winter flounder fishing trip this season with a friend where he "limited out" on his catch of flounder aboard a vessel from Gauron's Deep Sea Fishing fleet out of Hampton. Reports from Kittery Trading Post and many local anglers say that the Pepperell Cove area in Portsmouth Harbor has been the hot spot. Other successful fishing grounds have been at the mouth of Hampton Harbor and most notably near the mouth of the Merrimack River. This spot is where our local party boats, which have in recent times focused on Atlantic mackerel and bluefish for their half-day trips, have been devoting their morning half-days to winter flounder trips. Ed Gilmore of Smith & Gilmore Charters in Hampton told me recently that it has become a popular trip this season for his customers, and most trips resulted in great success. In all the talk of flounder fishing this year, the name "fluke" has even been tossed around. Fluke is a popular common name for summer flounder, which occasionally stray this far north. They are easily distinguished from winter flounder by their squared tail, large mouth, and formidable teeth. These flounder are also more aggressive than winter flounder and will chase lures or even break the surface in a strike. Captain Mark Godfrey of Eastman's Fishing Fleet in Seabrook reports two fluke landed during an evening fishing trip at the mouth of the Merrimack River while targeting striped bass! All in all, it has been an unusual year on New Hampshire's seacoast, to say the least. We have had record rains, heat waves, hailstorms, and they even say a tornado in Exeter. So now that the fall weather is beginning to settle in, make the most of it and get out there and fish! ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- August 3, 2006 This week, fascinating findings from an ongoing migration study, courtesy of coldwater fisheries biologist Dianne Emerson. You won't believe how far a brook trout will travel! If you're going for trout during steamy weather, here's Dianne's advice: "High water and temperatures have forced fish to hunker down. Be patient -- they are in the water. Give the trout a couple of days to acclimate. Remember, hot temperatures can be lethal to fish, even if they appear to swim away after being caught and released. It's best to target warmwater fish that can handle greater than 70-degree temperatures, or hit areas that are spring-fed. And, remain aware that you are pulling these fish out of the spring and into the warm temperatures. Be gentle but quick to return them to the cool water!" Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. And now it's easy to bring a friend along -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish stocking activity is done for the summer. We'll have lots more fresh fish for you next March... stay tuned. Get past stocking info at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> AND YOU THOUGHT ONLY SALMON MIGRATED... By Dianne Emerson, Coldwater Fisheries Biologist, Region 1/Lancaster What about brook trout? It all started in June of 2005 with 34 wild brook trout that reside in the Dead Diamond River and the Magalloway River. The captured fish were weighed, measured and aged using scales -- like all of our other fish assessments. But these fish were different because they also underwent surgery. Radio telemetry tags were inserted into their belly cavities so that we could follow them around and observe where they go and when. What we found was astonishing! Research has indicated that brook trout move very little if they are in suitable habitat. Suitable habitat includes cold temperatures throughout the summer, spawning substrate for the fall, and pool habitat to sustain them through winter. Some researchers have found they move less than one mile a day under these conditions. This is the case for the Magalloway fish that we tagged. The Magalloway River flows out of Azicohos Lake and in and out of Maine and New Hampshire until it reaches the headwaters of the Androscoggin River. This river begins at Azicohos Dam, which has a bottom-fed release. This river's maximum temperature during the summer is 67°F. That is three degrees below what we consider to be a critical/maximum temperature for brook trout. These fish remained in the pools we caught them in until mid-September, moved a couple of miles downstream to spawn, and then moved further downstream to pools greater than ten feet to over-winter. Now the trout are back in the pools that we tagged them in last year! The Dead Diamond, on the other hand, is a natural river that has a long history of logging at its headwaters as well as its mainstem and tributaries. The mainstem and tributaries have been recovering as a result of management by Dartmouth College Woodlands, but the headwaters are still heavily logged. The Dead Diamond River's maximum temperature varies annually but last year it topped out at 80°F on the surface. There are sections of this river that are less than 3 inches deep, so surface temperature needs to be considered. That being said, the Dead Diamond fish that were tagged in the mainstem left the river. All of them! They went into the Magalloway River, Umbagog Lake and the Androscoggin River. Most of the fish spent their summer in the Magalloway and they overwintered in Umbagog and the Androscoggin. Unfortunately, only one of those fish returned to the Dead Diamond. He went back to the pool he was caught in and at the last tracking on July 31 he was working his way downstream again. This fish traveled 23 miles to seek coldwater refuge, spawning grounds, and winter habitat! This study is ongoing and we are hoping to gather more information on the residents of the river during this field season. New fish were tagged in the Dead Diamond River this year, despite all the rain in June. We will continue to track them, as well as those tagged in 2005, throughout the year. The objectives of the brook trout migration study are to: 1) determine if migration from the river is normal behavior to acquire "thermal refuge," or if it was the result of the high water in 2005, and 2) determine which seasonal habitats are preferred and why. The latter will provide important biological information that we can use when designing restoration projects. If you are interested in learning more about this project, feel free to contact me directly at demerson@nhfgd.org or by phone 603-788-3164. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- July 27, 2006 This week, fisheries biologists Ben Nugent and Matt Carpenter offer a short course in brook trout gear, locations, and techniques. Fish stocking activity has been winding down as the waters warm up, and will soon be suspended until spring. Get the final stocking list of the season at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. And now it's easy to bring a friend along -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> THE BROOK TROUT BASICS By Ben Nugent, fisheries biological technician; and Matt Carpenter, fisheries biologist Of all fish species in New Hampshire, the brook trout continues to be one of my favorite fish to catch. Brookies live in some of the most scenic rivers and streams in the state and to me, their coloration make them hands-down the most attractive fish. If you're looking for a way to cool off on these humid summer days or introduce someone new to fishing, going after brookies can't be beat. ><> GEAR An advantage of the equipment needed for brook trout fishing is simplicity. Mobility is key; you want to be able to move up and down the stream quickly and quietly as possible. Any basic rod and reel combo will be enough to get you started. I like to keep extra hooks (the smaller the better) and sinkers (nonlead, of course) in a small container that fits in my pocket. Instead of waders, I use an old pair of sneakers to move around the stream. If I'm fishing at a relatively open stream, I'll bring out the lightweight fly rod with tiny beaded nymphs and caddis imitations. ><> LOCATIONS Fortunately, there are opportunities in almost every town in New Hampshire to fish for brook trout. See http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm for some suggested areas on where to go. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department stocks almost 1,500 miles of streams every year. The hard work of our fish culturists and scientific advances in feed for hatchery-raised fish has made it very difficult to distinguish the taste and appearance of wild trout from stocked trout. The most crucial habitat characteristic needed for brook trout is clean, cold water (usually less than 70 degrees F). If you can find this type of water, there's a good chance brookies will be there. Mountain brooks and slow-moving streams near farmlands are my personal favorite places to fish for brook trout. Try to find deeper pools, undercut banks, small beaver dams, or submerged wood. All of these areas provide great cover for brookies. ><> TIPS Worm containers that attach to your belt make bait readily available and are well worth the few dollars they cost. Speaking of worms, you can get them using a spade shovel in fertile soil or at bait shops and convenience stores throughout the state. (Ed. note: Please dispose of worm containers in a proper trash receptacle, not at the edge of our beautiful waters!) The soil on the outskirts of a garden is a great spot to look for worms. Brook trout are used to feeding on very small insects and worms. It's better to use smaller worms (dillies or trout worms). Night crawlers are usually a little too big. Prepared hook assemblies with red beads and spinners can also be effective. If you don't have a creel basket to hold your catch, use plastic shopping bags. I like to tie a shopping bag to my belt loop. If you're going to be walking through thick areas, use two bags -- in case the outer bag tears. Put moistened ferns in the bag to keep your catch damp. Don't stay home because the water is high. Some of the best fishing can occur right after a thunderstorm. The pulse of rain flushes food into the stream, making the fish feed aggressively. The cloudy water after a storm also helps to disguise your line. Brook trout are very aware of their surroundings. If spooked, brookies will stop looking for food and seek out cover for protection. When walking along streambanks, try to be as stealthy as possible. The vibrations of a person stomping around could alarm the fish. Stay low and wear dark clothing. A big white t-shirt passing by can be easily seen by a brookie. Be prepared for a quick bite. I tend to fish pools very quickly but persistently, not staying longer than a few minutes if I don't get a bite. In most cases brookies in small streams will hit quickly. If you're lucky, you might get a second chance if the first hit is missed. Brookies can be "smartened" very quickly -- if the fish senses something wrong with the bait, it most likely won't bite again. Get out there while you can. Believe it or not, it it's almost August and the leaves will start to change color soon -- and it will be time to tune up the ice fishing gear! ><> WANT TO LEND A HAND? Brook trout populations have declined, especially in the southern Appalachian Mountains, where rural landscapes have become more urban. There are many efforts to protect and restore brook trout habitat. The largest project to date is the Eastern Brook Trout Joint Venture, which aims to document, protect, and restore brook trout populations throughout their entire range on the east coast. If you are interested in helping protect brook trout habitat, contact your local chapter of Trout Unlimited (www.tu.org), a nonprofit organization that works to protect trout and salmon fishing throughout the U.S. Joining a chapter is a great way to access the experience and local knowledge of a group of people who are passionate about trout fishing. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN SPORT FISH AND WILDLIFE RESTORATION A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm. -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- JULY 20, 2006 In the dog days of summer, break out the hot dogs! This advice and more for Southwest-region anglers, from Travis Drudi and Gabe Gries of Fish and Game's Region 4 office in Keene. Get the latest stocking report at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Buy your fishing license online, anytime -- at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. It's easy to bring a friend along, too -- New Hampshire residents can buy a one-day license for just $10. Kids 15 and under fish free anytime. Fish NH and relax... we have what you're looking for. ________________________________ HOT DOGGIN' FOR POUT AT NIGHT By Travis Drudi, Fisheries Seasonal and Gabe Gries, Fisheries Biologist -- Region 4 (Keene) Poutin' at night doesn't just have to be about the horned pout. Bass and sunfish (as well as the occasional untargeted snapping turtle) can also be caught while fishing from shore at night. Recent outings on Lake Monomonac in Rindge have resulted in this mixed bag of quality horned pout, 3 bass (two of the biggest weighing 3 lbs. and another 5 lbs.), along with a few sunfish and a snapping turtle of approximately 15 lbs. Using 10 lb. test mono and 2/0 extra-wide gap hooks baited with a good-sized piece of hot dog works well. To get the piece of hot dog to stay on, hook it through the side, turn the hook and put it through one of the ends. A floodlight over the water helps to attract small fish, which in turn brings in the bigger ones. Trout fishing on Laurel Lake (Fitzwilliam) is still amazing. Browns and rainbows in the 18-20 inch range are still being caught even though it is mid-July. These are some gorgeous fish! Trolling flies of your choice with wire or lead core line in about 20-25 ft. of water is working well. Being on the water early or at dusk is key. This time of year, bass action can be fast or slow depending on what time you are on the water. When the largemouth seem to be sluggish, try flipping a jig-and-pig or a weighted wooly hawg into pads and thick cover. Highland Lake (Stoddard), the Connecticut River, Thorndike Pond (Jaffrey), Harrisville Pond (Harrisville), Child's Bog (Harrisville) and Lake Warren (Alstead) have all been producing some nice bass. The old Greez technique of using a worm and bobber can provide some good action as well -- for kids and adults alike. For some fun smallie fishing, throw a topwater lure early or late in the day in 5-10 feet of water. A Senko worked very fast over the surface has caught the attention of some big smallies for me in the past. A tube bait should be kept handy as a backup in case the fish misses your topwater offering. If you have not fished for lunker largemouth at nighttime, you should definitely try it. When the moon is out, throw a black jitterbug or an oversized black Senko around docks, isolated weed patches or close to shore. The hot and humid days of July are the perfect time to go jigging for lake trout. We know that one normally thinks of this as a wintertime activity, but it can lead to high catch rates during summer as well. Suggested locations in Southwestern NH include Nubanusit Lake (Hancock) and Silver Lake (Harrisville). Slowly maneuver around the lake and use your fish finder to look for sudden changes in depth, such as slopes right off shore and deep holes. The lakers should be in these areas, although sometimes they will be resting right on the bottom and won't show up on your fish finder. When you find one of these areas, shut off the motor and drift slowly while jigging right off the bottom. You want a 6-7 foot rod spooled with 10+ lb test line. It is always good to use a 3-4 foot leader of fluorocarbon line. Common lures to use are Hopkins Shorty Spoons and Castmasters. A lure from 1/4 to 3/4 ounces works wel

ERIC P. ORFF Certified Wildlife Biologist Wildlife Author - Wildlife Lecturer - Wildlife Photographer Non-Lethal Control of Bats since 1983 nhfishandwildlif@aol.com

Fishing

Weekly Fishing Reports From The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and The Kittery Trading Post

ERIC P. ORFF
Certified Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Author - Wildlife Lecturer - Wildlife Photographer
Non-Lethal Control of Bats since 1983
nhfishandwildlif@aol.com