OUTDOOR Nebraska
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY NEBRASKA GAME, FORESTATION AND PARKS COMMISSION Editor: Dick H. Schaffer Managing editor: J. Greg Smith Associate editors: Pete Czura, Mary Brashier Photographer-writer: Gene Hornbeck Artist: Claremont G. Prilchard Circulation: Lillian Meinecke APRIL 1960 Vol. 38, No. 4 25 cents per copy $1.75 for one year $3 for two years Send subscriptions to: OUTDOOR NEBRASKA, State Capitol Lincoln 9 Second Class Postage Paid at Lincoln, Nebr. NEBRASKA GAME COMMISSION George Pinkerion, Beatrice, chairman Robert H. Hall, Omaha, vice chairman Keith Kreycik, Valentine Wade Ellis, Alliance LeRoy Bahensky, St. Paul Don C. Smith, Franklin A. I. Rauch, Holdrege DIRECTOR M. O. Steen DIVISION CHIEFS Eugene H. Baker, senior administrative assistant; engineering and operations Glen R, Foster, fisheries Lloyd P. Vance, game Dick H. Schaffer, information and education Willard R, Barbee, land management Jack D. Strain, state parks FEDERAL AID CO-ORDINATOR Phil Agee (Lincoln) PROJECT AND ASSISTANT PROJECT LEADERS Orty Orr, fisheries (Lincoln) Dale Bree, parks (Lincoln) Bill Bailey, big game (Lincoln) Frank Sleight, operations Clarence Newton, land management (Lincoln) (Lincoln) Delvin M. Whiteley, land management (Lincoln) Chester McLain, land management (Lincoln) Frank Foote, parks division (Lincoln) Robert Killen, parks (Lincoln) Raymond Linder, upland game birds and small game (Fairmont) Dudley Osborn, boating (Lincoln) George Schildman, waterfowl (Lincoln) AREA MANAGERS Eugene D. Miller, fisheries, (Lincoln) Melvin Grim, Medicine Creek, Enders, Swanson (McCook) Ralph Craig, McConaughy Reservoir (Ogallala) Carl E. Gettrnann, Lewis and Clark Lake (Bloomfield) Richard Wolkow, Cowles Lake (Omaha) Harold Edwards, Plattsmouth Waterfowl Management Area Richard Spady, Sacramento Wildlife Development Project (Wilcox) DISTRICT SUPERVISORS DISTRICT I (Alliance, phone 412) L. J. Cunningham, law enforcement Lem Hewitt, operations John Mathisen, game Harvey Suetsugu, big game Keith Donoho, fisheries Robert L. Schick, land management DISTRICT II (Bassett, phone 334) John Harpham, law enforcement Delmer Dorsey, operations Jack Walstrom, game Bruce McCarraher, fisheries Gerald Chaff in, land management DISTRICT III (Norfolk, phone FRontier 1-4950) Robert Downing, law enforcement Leonard Spoering, operations H. O. Compton, big game George Kidd, fisheries Jim Hubert, land management. DISTRICT IV (North Platte, phone LE 2-6225) Samuel Grasmick, law enforcement Don Hunt, operations Robert Thomas, fisheries DISTRICT V (Lincoln, phone HE 5-2951) Norbert Kampsnider, law enforcement Robert Reynolds, operations Earl Kendle, fisheries Karl E. Menzel, game RESEARCH BIOLOGISTS Marvin Schwilling, grouse (Burwell) David Lyon, pheasants (Fairmont) James Norman, pheasants (Fairmont) John Sweet, waterfowl (Stuart) Leo H. Dawson, fisheries (Valentine) Dave Jones, fisheries, (North Platte) Neil Henry, fisheries (Red Cloud) AREA CONSERVATION OFFICERS William J. Ahern. Box 1197, North Loup, phone HY 6-4232 Robert Ator, 356 East 6, Wahoo. phone GI 3-3742 Cecil Avey. 519 4th Street, Crawford, phone 228 Robert Benson, Commodore Hotel, 24th & Dodge, Omaha, phone JA-7755 William F. Bonsall, Box 305, Alma, phone 154 H. Lee Bowers, Benkelman, phone 49R Dale Bruha, 1627 No. 28, Lincoln, phone GR 7-4258 Loron Bunney, Box 675, Ogallala,. phone 28-4-4107 Wayne S. Chord, Lakeview Route, Hay Springs, Phone ME 8-5220 Lowell I. Fleming, Box 203, La Dona Motel, Apt. 1, Fremont, phone PA 1-3679 Raymond Frandsen, Box 373, Humboldt, phone 5711 Richard Furley, Box 221, Ponca, phone 56 John D. Green. 720 West Avon Road, Lincoln, phone ID 4-1165 (SPECIAL OFFICER—PILOT) Ed Greving, 313 W. 30th, Kearney, phone 7-2777 William Gurnett, Box 225, Plattsmouth, phone 240 H. Burnham Guver, Box 108, Lexington, phone FA 4-3208 Donald D. Hunt, Box 301, Oshkosh, phone PR 2-3697 Larry Iverson, Box 201, Hartington. phone AL 4-3500 Jim McCole, Box 268, Gering, ID 6-2686 Jack Morgan, Box 603. Valentine, phone 504 Roy E. Owen, Box 288, Crete, phone 446 Paul C. Phillippe, Syracuse, phone 166W Fred Salak, 2304 West 1st St., Grand Island, phone DU 4-0582 Herman O. Schmidt, Jr., 1011 East Fourth, McCook, phone 992 Harry A. Spall, 615 E. Everett St., Box 581, O'Neill, phone 637 Joe Ulrich, Box 492, Bridgeport, phone 100 Bruce Wiebe, P. O. Box 383, Hastings, phone 2-8317 Lyman Wilkinson, R. R. 3. Humphrey, phone 2663 Gail Woodside, Box 443, Stromsburg, phone 5841 NEBRASKA FARMER PRINTING CO.. LINCOLN. NEBRASKAWhat fisherman hasn't stretched out in the warming spring sun and let the rest of the world and its troubles go by? The young'un still is serious about his angling, and probably will wake Dad up when Ihe fish takes his bait. Pete Czura's cover chuckler introduces an issue chock full of fishing facts and tips that will get you off right on this summer's fishing. Brush up on lines, choose your clothes and wading gear, study the walleye and sauger feature— then start after some record-busters.
NEBRASKAland "COMING OUT"
TO SOME 120,000 Kansas Citians, the lure of the ceremonial buffalo skull that fronted the colorful 10-foot-wide travel display was more than enough to entice them to "NEBRASKAland —where the West begins." Here, at the Kansas City Boat, Sports, and Travel Show, they were getting a sampling of the Old West as it can only be seen and enjoyed in Nebraska.
"Can we still see the ruts of the Oregon trail?" they asked of the two western-clad Game Commission men working the booth. "Is there a place where we can camp while we look over the Indian battleground?"
The same was true in Wichita. There, 60,000 sports-show visitors were intrigued by the possibility of catching northerns like the two lunkers on display. Chiding questions like "Where can you fish in the prairie?" quickly changed to "Why travel north when you folks have such fishing? Where are those 2,300 lakes?"
In St. Louis, another 100,000 potential Nebraska vacationers pressed close to the booth. They wanted to know more about the fabulous upland gunning they'd heard so much about. Six live grouse preening in cages prompted their questions.
One lady, when told there were some 50 public camping areas in Nebraska, asked, "Where does one camp, in the cornfields?" Her impression of Nebraska was that it consisted of nothing but cornfields, and was typical of that of many persons who obviously knew little if anything about the state. To some people the exhibit represented their first exposure to the Cornhusker State.
A whopping half-million recreation-eager outdoorsman in Chicago were alerted to the prospects of hunting, fishing, camping, and
APRIL, 1960
3
boating in a state "only 500 miles away." In Nebraska, they discovered, they could have their, cake
and eat it, too. Pheasant, quail, and grouse hunting
was theirs for only $16 in license and bird-stamp fees.
Two species of deer could be gunned. Hundreds of
fishing lakes and rivers producing everything from
northerns to rainbows were open year-round.
Launching their big boats would be easy in a host
of reservoirs.
"This is the mecca I've been dreaming about," was an immediate reaction.
The same was true in Des Moines where another 60,000 outdoor enthusiasts discovered a variety of vistas and recreation opportunities "just across the river." By the time the out-of-state travel circuit was completed, over one million Americans had their appetites whetted to the possibilities of vacationing here.
Participation in these five travel shows as well as the Omaha, Lincoln, and other state shows and a national advertising program directed at last year's hunters together represent Nebraska's first bid to an outdoor-eager America. Though the promotional campaign is concentrated, it cannot be considered a major program. A $30,000 legislative appropriation for the present biennium has its limits. But the Game Commission, following the directive of the legislature "to advertise and promote the scenic, historic, and outdoor-recreational values and attractions of the state . . ." has taken a healthy step forward in developing what could be one of the state's greatest economic assets—the tourist trade.
By all standards, the $30,000 fund is pitifully small. Neighboring Wyoming, for example, budgets $325,000 a biennium to operate its travel agency. Participating in 21 travel shows from coast to coast and carrying out a full-scale advertising and public-relations program, its travel agency has been successful in making touring the second largest if not the largest business in the "cowboy state". In dollars and cents, its investment pays off in millions. South Dakota and Colorado enjoy similar returns from their tourist programs.
"Whoa, now," you might say. "Nebraska isn't Wyoming, Colorado, or South Dakota. We don't have a Yellowstone, Grand Teton, or Black Hills."
No, Nebraska isn't like its neighbors. It's chockfull of its own brand of scenic vistas and outdoor fun areas. It's a living history book telling one of the world's greatest epics.
The state need not take a back seat to anyone.
Incomplete data show a $17 return in license funds
for every advertising dollar invested by Nebraska
last year. Add money spent by the hunter for lodgings,
food, equipment, gas, and entertainment (a figure which would easily reach $145 per hunter) and
the original investment becomes small indeed, the
returns, most encouraging. The advertising to attract
hunters to Nebraska is simply a prelude to what
can be done for fishing and vacationing.
Still apprehensive about what the state has to offer? Then take a look at "Nebraskaland", the free 28-page brochure given to travel-show visitors and all interested in the state. Look, too, at a map of the United States. Nebraska sits as a ripe plum, smack in the middle of the super-highway route that has always been the trail of America on the go.
Within the "where-the-West begins" booklet a host of vacation opportunities unfold. From it, out-of-staters have discovered that the West that they see on television was and still is a vital part of Nebraska. Shadows of Lewis and Clark, trader and mountain man, Sioux chief and Omaha brave, Oregon immigrant and Texas cattle drover, Pony Express rider and Concord stage driver, Iron Horse track layer and Western Union line stringer, Pawnee scout and plains trooper still linger, the mementos of their passing reflecting at every turn.
For sportsmen, "Nebraskaland" holds still another interest. Chicagoans, for example, found it hard to believe that Nebraskans couldn't come close to harvesting the state's surplus of pheasants and quail. To them, bird hunting has been an expensive, limited, and often fruitless affair, with gunning pretty much confined to controlled-hunt areas. Wichita people saw in Nebraska a water paradise where they could fish, boat, and ski to their heart's content. The Sand Hills caught the St. Louis outdoorsman's eye, a place where he could enjoy grouse hunting and top bass fishing. Kansas City sportsmen were pleased at the aspect of taking northerns and having a crack at two species of deer. Many were excited over the state's turkey and antelope restoration programs.
A map of the state's parks and recreation areas proved enticing to the whole family. These were places where mothers could corral their children while their husbands were fishing or hunting. Many asked for routes to these sites as well as a run-down on the facilities at each.
What does this kind of interest mean to Nebraska? You've already seen the increase in nonresident license sales. And this is the least expensive of the out-of-staters' long list of expenditures while in the state. Returns to motel, service-station, and restaurant operators as well as hardware, drug-store, curio-shop, and other retail outlets are even more dramatic. Every dollar spent increases income and helps Nebraskans either directly or indirectly.
There are many problems yet to be solved before Nebraska becomes a top touring state. Local groups and Chambers of Commerce must develop their tourist-interest spots. There isn't a town or city that doesn't have many attractions to offer, be it historic site, prime hunting area, or productive waterway. Considering the potential, Nebraskans have only begun to scratch the surface of discovering ways of attracting tourists. The Game Commission, though in an accelerated park program, has much to do if all scenic, recreation, and historic sites are to be utilized. Money and time are the limiting factors. Both can be overcome.
The legislature's desire to advertise Nebraska to "attract the nonresident trade" took a big first step when promotional funds were appropriated. Results have been most encouraging, pointing the way to a more energetic program. Nebraskans, long proud of their state, have ever been willing to show it off to anyone who will come take a look. Theirs is a tremendous heritage, a mass of raw tourist resources and exciting history just begging to be seen and utilized. There's no doubt that there are envious millions more than willing to take them up on their offer.
THE END
BOTTOMS UP for WALLEYE
THE COMING of nightfall brought a quietness to the lake, broken only by the whishing spinning line as it followed its lure to the haunts of the walleye. The fisherman had picked his time and place well to do battle with this nocturnal prowler of the shallows. The little bay of water opened into the main lake about 50 yards away.
Time after time the lure, a yellow flatfish, plunked into the water, settled, and was retrieved in a slow, broken motion, just inches off the gravel bottom. The fish struck twice before the hooks could be set. Then in the shroud of darkness, the battle began.
The thin line hissed as the fish raced for deeper water, and the angler responded by turning the fish, holding his rod high, to keep the line from fouling. The walleye dug in in a bottom-hugging battle. Unlike some game fish, this bulgy-eyed species doesn't go for fancy aerial displays. He runs his biggest show of strength on the bottom.
After five arm-tiring minutes, the long limber spinning rod proved strongest as the webbing of the net slipped under the four-pounder. Holding him against the night sky, the angler admired the sleek silhouette of this big member of the perch family.
It's surprising that so many fishermen swear by Slizostedion vilreum vilreum. That's the Latin name for this morsel, alias marbleye. Although walleyes are tough to find, many Nebraskans prefer to chance their luck than to fish for the more plentiful and easier-to-catch species.
I've fished the walleye in some of its best hangouts, including Canada's Lake of the Woods, Michigan's Little Bay de Noc, and Wisconsin's Wolf River. When someone asks why I spend so much time dragging the bottom for this unpredictable fish, I tell them that I'm too lazy to cast, so I just troll a gob of worms behind the boat and catch walleye.
The walleye, along with his blood brother, the sauger, is just about the finest-eating piece of fish flesh that ever graced a platter. And although trolling with bait is highly productive, many other methods can be equally effective.
To be a successful angler, one has to haVe a knowledge of both species' habits and habitat. Here are some pointers that might pay dividends.
Both the walleye and the sauger have nocturnal habits. This becomes obvious, once you look at their large luminous eyes. Both fish are bottom-dwellers and seldom are caught near the surface. Their diet consists largely of minnows, crayfish, and large aquatic nymphs. Both are found in or around gravel covered bottoms, rock ledges, and along sharp drop offs. They prefer deep cool water. Some, however, are caught in turbid waters during the day.
The sauger has a limited range in Nebraska. His stronghold is the Missouri River from South Sioux City upstream to the South Dakota border. Large numbers can be found below Gavins Point Dam while limited numbers inhabit the tailraces at Milburn Dam and the Loup River Power Canal at Columbus.
The walleye is more widely distributed. Maloney, Sutherland, Jeffery, McConaughy, Johnson, Midway, Plum, and Box Elder reservoirs on the Platte River watershed have substantial populations. Swanson, Harlan, and Medicine Creek reservoirs on the Republican are also good, as are Whitney Reservoir in Dawes County and Lake Minatare in Scotts Bluff County. Eastern Nebraska anglers take a few in the Missouri River upstream from South Sioux City.
March to June affords the most productive sport.
Early morning, late evening, and nighttime fishing
are best fishing times. Walleye and sauger sometime
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OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
take a streak where they hit during the day. Then,
the sky is generally overcast, and it may or may
not be raining. Late fall will bring on another upswing of activity. Then, larger fish are often caught,
although fewer fish are creeled.
Time-of-day has an influence on where the fish can be found. Both walleye and sauger follow a fairly regular timetable. Daylight hours find them loafing in deep water. As light diminishes, they move to the shallow, more productive feeding areas. Often, both remain there through the night, returning to deeper water as the morning light increases. This routine very often starts earlier in the evening and continues later in the morning if the day is overcast.
For any angler to be successful, he must know the water he's fishing. The best bet to learn how to fish a specific area is to do lots of line-wetting. One possible short cut is to question local anglers.
Trolling is perhaps the most productive method in Nebraska, especially in the reservoirs. It enables the fisherman to locate the fish which are usually schooled in a favorite area. Once a school is found, the angler should troll the area well, trying different lures and baits until the hottest offering is found.
Tackle for trolling is varied. My preference is a medium to heavy-action casting rod and level-wind reel, loaded with 18-pound-test lead-core line. For terminal tackle, I use 24 inches of 10-pound-test monofilament and a snap swivel. This lead-core line, although in the heavy-strength class for walleye, gets the lure down on tlfce bottom.
Spin fishing is another exciting way to whip walleye and sauger. When'in-shore fishing, select gravel or rocky-bottomed waters to work your lures, particularly during the twilight hours. Incidentally, the fly-rod fan would do well to try in-shore angling.
Dam spillways and stilling basins are walleye hot spots. Here again, the spin and fly fisherman can get lots of action on either bait or artificials.
Any fishing has its best lures and baits. Such is the case here. The first thing to look for in a lure is its ability to hug the bottom without getting too many snags. The semi-deep-running lures produce well for evening fishing in the shallows. Then the fish are really on the prowl for food.
The yellow, lead-headed jig has been taking lots of walleye and has been a top producer this winter on sauger at Gavins Point. This lure comes in many colors, and at times white, red, or combination colors are top go-togethers.
Lures like the flatfish "Lazy Ike" are excellent for trolling. Some anglers have found that a couple of worms draped on the hooks of this lure add extra fish to the stringer. The same is true with many of the spoons. Although attaching a garden hackle will cut down the action of a lure, it does, at times, make a difference in the catch.
Other deep-running plugs such as the "River Runt", "Bassmaster", "Sonar" spoon, and "Sonic" plug have proven consistent producers. Yellow, yellow and white, and black and white streamers tied on No. 2 to 6 hooks are favorites of the fly fisherman. These big streamers are fished very slowly. Often split shot is used to carry them down. They are retrieved in short jerky six-inch spurts.
Either night crawlers or minnows work best for bait fishing. I've had more success trolling the crawler—June-bug spinner combination than any other. Minnows produce better for still fishing in lakes, dams, and in the reservoirs proper. Crayfish bait at the end of spinning outfit has worked well on schooled walleye. Normal casting gets the bait out away from the boat, and the shot carries it to the bottom. Use a very slow retrieve, just enough to inch the crayfish along the bottom.
The Game Commission will continue to stock many reservoirs with these very desirable game fish. Over a million were planted last year, insuring increased walleye fishing in the future.
Before heading out for a day of angling, take a look at the state records for these lunkers. Last June, a giant 16-pound, 1-ounce tackle-busting walleye was taken from McConaughy. Gavins Point gave up a 7-pound, 14-ounce sauger in 1958. Bigger fish are still lurking in Nebraska's waters, and with these records to shoot at, you might just be the one to latch onto the biggest yet.
THE END APRIL, 1960 7
BRIDGEPORT Recreation Grounds
THE BRIDGEPORT Recreation Grounds is situated in a land of contrast. Located in the broad, fertile valley of the North Platte River in the state's panhandle, this area has strong links to the early pioneer days of our country. To the southwest stand the Wildcat Hills, a realm of great heights and rugged beauty. Rising to the north are the rolling Sand Hills, a unique domain of cattle and grass.
The recreation area is 165 acres of cottonwood splendor, fronting on the North Platte River. Only a short distance from the town of Bridgeport, the site is heavily used. Last year an estimated 35,000 people visited the grounds, more than double the 1958 attendance figure.
Bridgeport has plenty of drawing attractions. Five sand-pit lakes provide top fishing and boating. The largest pond is 52 acres and the smallest three. Trout are stocked in the northwest pond while the others have a variety of fish to tempt the angler. Wildlife abounds in the immediate area. Quail, pheasants, squirrels, cottontails, muskrats, and frequently deer are there for the seeing. The Bridgeport grounds are open to hunting in season from October 1 to April 1.
The picnic area, spacious and shady, is well equipped and a cool haven on warm summer days. There are fireplaces, picnic tables, benches, sanitary facilities, and well water. And, to keep the young fry busy while dad goes fishing, there is plenty of playground equipment, including a merry-go-round, swings, horizontal bars, and teeter-totter.
Camping facilities are excellent, offering the outdoorsman the chance to enjoy all that the area has to offer, and at the same time, giving him the opportunity to capture a bit of the Old West. A man can hitch a ride on a prairie schooner of the Oregon trail, venture forth on a Concord stage to the gold rush of the Black Hills, or hold a powwow with an Indian tribe searching for buffalo, once he unlooses his imagination.
Here he can stand near the old immigrant highways
to the West and relive the opening and settlement
of the Bridgeport area. Robert Stuart, traveling from Fort Astoria in Oregon Territory to the
East, was one of the first white men on record to
view this area. Stuart, a fur company agent, realized
that the trail he was blazing along the Platte would
make a good western route for pack trains and wagons to transport furs from the wilderness. Even he,
however, could never realize how vital his trail
soon would become. Stuart and six other weary
travelers camped near what is now the town of
Bridgeport on a cold, bleak day in December of 1812.
His party was impressed with the region's vastness
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OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
and they reported seeing herds of buffalo and wild
horses.
In 1847 Brigham Young led his advance party of Mormons up the trail, looking for a religious haven. The party camped north of the river, opposite the vicinity of the present recreation grounds. On the south side was a large encampment of Sioux Indians. Many of the Dakotas crossed the river to visit the Mormon camp. It is believed that this area was a favorite Indian camping spot because of the many artifacts found near there.
The Bridgeport area also played an important role during the Black Hills' gold-rush days. It was near here that Henry T. Clarke built a 2,016-foot bridge across the North Platte River. Remnants of the span are still visible. Timbers for the structure, which cost an estimated $10,000, were cut in the Wildcat Hills. Pilings for the bridge were shipped in from Illinois.
Opening-day traffic in May 1876 practically paid for the span as a jam of wagons and people piled up on both sides of the narrow bridge. People were allowed to cross from the south side in the morning and from the north side in the afternoon.
A blockhouse was built on an island near the north side of the bridge, and for a time soldiers were stationed at each end of the span to protect it from hostile Indians. A post office, store, saloon, stage barn, and other buildings were located at the south end of the bridge. Unfortunately, all were destroyed by a sweeping prairie fire in 1910. The town of Bridgeport didn't come into existence until 1900, even though the area was heavily traveled.
Development of the recreation area during the past year has included the planting of 565 trees and shrubs. The site is covered with many varieties of trees and shrubs including cottonwood, pine, sand cherry, plum, Nanking cherry, quail brush, chokecherry, and Chinese elm.
Swimming is allowed in the ponds, but is not encouraged since there is no supervision. These waters are extremely cold and deep, making them unsafe for any but experienced swimmers. Future beach developments may see a change in this situation.
Such historical sites as Jail Rock, Courthouse Rock, Chimney Rock National Historic Site, and Scotts Bluff National Monument are within easy driving distance of the Bridgeport area, making it a natural as a top-notch vacation site. The Nebraskan who likes his outdoor fare spiced with scenic and historic wonders will find the Bridgeport recreation area will more than meet his every interest.
THE END APRIL, 1960 9
WHAT'S YOUR LINE?
SELECTING THE right line, whether you're pitching it to a doll or a dolphin, will have a direct bearing on the end results. Try the wrong one on a doll, and you could end up with a lump on your head. Select the wrong one for fishing, and you may end up with the lump in your throat, as that once-in-a-lifetime trophy swims away.
Selecting the right fishing line to do the job at hand is a fairly simple matter. Catfishing in our Nebraska rivers, for example, calls for a heavy line that can handle a fish in the 20 and 30-pound class. Bait and terminal gear often weigh 2 to 6 ounces. Catfishing is a waiting game, requiring a minimum of casting. All these things add up to the fact that a 20-pound-test line is none too heavy.
Knowing and using the right line will provide the angler with more kicks and more fishBass fishing, on the other hand, often calls for lots of accurate casting. The lures and terminal gear will seldom exceed V2 ounce. The fish are not as big, nor the snags as frequent. A 20-pound line used for catfish is almost impossible to cast, and there is little accuracy, so to be successful the bass fisherman must drop down to 10 or 20-pound-test line.
When talking of lines, remember lure, weight, and rod must match the line in use. The catfish angler needs a heavy-action rod. The bass fisherman, following the same line of reasoning, can use a light to medium-action stick.
This is graphically illustrated by the story of the fisherman who enthusiastically rushed in and bought an extra-light line for his casting outfit, thinking it would enable him to cast a country mile. Spooled on his level-wind reel with a heavy-action rod, he attached one of his favorite %-ounce lures. His first cast was the longest he'd ever made, the only trouble being that the lure traveled most of the distance without the line attached.
Bait-casting lines are made from a variety of materials. Silk lines, for example, are braided around a core of silk fiber, the outside having a squarish appearance; it can be either hard or soft-braid. The hard-braid line wears longer and withstands severe use. The soft-braid is used with light lures, and for tournament casting.
The entire picture of the bait-casting field was changed with the advent of nylon. Braided nylon lines are an angler's bargain, and will cast as "smooth as silk". They require no care, yet won't rot or mildew. They soak up very little water, have tough knot strength, and tremendous shock-absorbing resilience.
Monofilament bait-casting lines have made their appearance on the angling scene in the past two years. These are single-strand lines. Possessing a tough pliable thinness, they are very useful for making extremely long casts. A word of caution for the tyro who cannot cope with monofilament's rapid reel-off. It can cause over running and backlashes which could damage the line. Many experts agree that the development of present-day spinning line played an important part in that growth of this form of angling. The old-timers remember lines that popped off the reel like spring steel. These are a far cry from the super-limp monofilament in use today.
Monofilament spinning lines come in either single-strand or braided styles. Both work well, but the single-strand casts better. It has less friction on the reel and guides, and its smooth surface also picks up less water on the retrieve.
10 OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
Fine-diameter monofilaments have been used to a good advantage in ultra-light spinning. Ultra-light line, of course, must be used with ultra-light rod and reel. Many of these rods weigh only one to two ounces and are designed for the astute angler that wants as much sport as possible out of even the smallest pan fish.
Modifications in fly lines have by no means been neglected by the manufacturers. Today's nearly unsinkable lines are a vast improvement over the old oil-impregnated type. The latter is still on the market and does make a good line, if the angler continually dries and applies line dressing.
The newer coated floating lines offer the average fisherman a good buoyant line with very little upkeep. Even though some manufacturers claim that their "unsinkables" never need line dressing it is still a good practice to grease the line before each outing. Make sure you apply the dressing over all line that comes in contact with the water, and then wipe it off with a clean soft cloth. There will be enough remaining on the line to float it well.
When buying a fly line the angler is confronted with at least three distinct types—the level, the double-taper, and the torpedo or bug-taper. Each has its place in fly fishing. The level line has the same diameter throughout its length. It's used primarily in fishing bait, wet flies, and nymphs. The double-tapered line is the work horse of the fly fisherman. It's tapered from a heavy center section designed for casting weight to lighter sections on both ends. When one end wears out and doesn't float well the line can be reversed; thus the fisherman actually buys two lines in one.
The line supplies the weight for fly casting. Each fly rod has a particular weight line that works best on it. The fly-line diameters are designated by letters from A to H with the latter being the smallest. If a rod calls for a "D-level" it means that it must have this much weight to properly bring out the action of the rod. When going to a tapered line you must still maintain this weight so you use an HCH taper. The C line gives you the weight, and the H the finer, easier-to-handle fishing end.
The weight-forward, bug, or torpedo-tapered line was created for extra weight in that section of the line that springs or works the rod. This line has a short, light-level section, tapered to a heavy large diameter section supplying the proper casting weight. From there on back the diameter is reduced to a long, level section which serves as a shooting line. An example would be a C-tip, B-casting, and F-shooting combination. This line has all the advantages of a double-taper except it cannot be reversed. It has the additional advantage of having the casting weight forward to obtain maximum casting distance even in high winds or when using bulky lures.
A good line for bank and cane-pole fishing should be highly rot-resistant, small diameter for the pound test, and have enough elasticity to absorb some of the shock of the fighting fish. One other feature to look for is its ability to remain submerged in water for a long time without swelling.
Dacron, one of the new "miracle" fabrics, has lent itself very well to all of these requirements. A setline fisherman must use heavy lines because there isn't a rod to take up the shock of the fighting fish, nor a reel to give line. Thus, a 50-pound-test dacron line is none too big. It gets the lure down to the bottom-feeders such as the walleye without the extra cumbersome sinkers. This line has little stretch, and the strike of the fish is readily telegraphed.
There is a fishing line made for every type of fishing. The fisherman must only remember that the rod, reel, lure and line are all a part of the casting team. Select the line to do the job, and it will return the satisfaction of catching fish with the maximum of enjoyment.
THE END
FIT FOR FISH
by Mary Brashier No Paris creations here, but some sound advice on what garb to wearRECOMMENDING fishing garb is a thankless task. No two anglers will admit agreement on even the basics—rods, lines, and lures. They carry this raging individuality over to their attire clad as sport-shop Beau Brummels or as bare-toed blue-jeaners.
So, at the risk of offending the old-timers, disregarding fashion critics, and fighting tradition, the following points are offered to the first-time angler.
The fish do care what you wear. Leave the white shirts at home; if you show up on your favorite trout stream outfitted in white, you can bid the wary quarry goodby—they've lit out for the deep pools. A "brownie" is suspicious enough anyway, and white or bright colors will make your sudden movements even more conspicuous. A more subdued color might pass as a tree's shadow. Stick to a somber hue such as khaki or drab green, or try a patterned fabric for even better blending with the background.
You'll also select your clothing with two other ideas in mind—the time of year and the thickness of your pocketbook. During Nebraska's broiling summer days you could try tennis shoes and shorts for wading, and not mind a dunking at all. But in cooler weather your purse becomes thinner and your figure bulkier.
Wool is the universal stand-by of fishermen except on the hottest of days. The cloth is porous enough, but keeps a warm layer next to your skin when needed. Long sleeves are a must—you can always roll them up.
Most anglers consider a fishing vest necessary. Jackets are going out as too cumbersome. The lighter and thinner the vest, the better. Popular with Nebraska fishermen is a water repellent, zipper-closing vest with large tackle pockets, an oversize breast pocket, and a zippered rear pocket to use as a creel. A built-in rod holder frees your hands for emergency action, and a wool-skin fly patch holds your most-used flies. A landing net "D ring" is on the back.
Save one of those pockets for a rain cape or coat. The new plastic kinds come wrapped in a walletsized bundle. Reserve another vest pocket for some insect repellent—the mosquitoes and gnats swarm in when the sun goes down. Tight wristbands on your shirt help some, but other than the repellent, wear something the mosquitoes can't bore through—a lightweight wool or cotton shirt is no good. A serious bass fisherman finds a light jacket and a head net ward off the cold and the pests.
Hats are good for an argument. Most fishermen prefer soft canvas hats with a rolled brim. But, in the words of one angler, "I wouldn't even kill horseflies with one of them." He wants a felt hat, and says that although he can't stuff it in his pocket or use it for a washbowl, it isn't a piece of tent, and it fits his cranium. A light-colored hat with a medium width brim apparently pleases most anglers. It shades the eyes, protects the ears and neck, and keeps the rain and insects off.
As for the basics, don't be ashamed to wear
woollies, if the weather acts a little sullen. You'll be
warm, and save yourself the misery of leg cramps.
Woolen socks are a must. Under waders or boots you
can save trouble by wearing a pair of lightweight
woolen socks next to the skin and a heavier pair over
12
OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
them to rub against the cold rubber of the boot. During a day's fishing, it's said, your body pores can
give off a quart or more of water. The oversocks take
care of this, leaving the inner socks practically dry
and easy to remove.
A rough 90 per cent of Nebraska fishermen go for hip boots, rather than breast or waist waders. They're probably the handiest for sportsmen who don't walk too far, are lighter, and easier to remove if they're the loose-ankle type. A belt strap helps keep them up, and adjustable take-up straps keep them snug against your legs.
There's times when you just can't reach lake bass without breast-high protection. Serious bass anglers insist on waders of some kind. Wading gear, incidentally, comes in three lengths—thigh, waist, and breast. If the thigh lengths have built-in boots, they're termed hip boots. All three lengths are available in boot and stocking feet, giving you six choices.
Each of the six comes in two fabrics:—heavy rubber-based and the thinner plastic, as well as grades in-between. The plastic is light and compact when folded, but doesn't last as long. Plus that, it's easily torn going through brush and is more prone to spring pinhole leaks.
You may choose a fishing boot that fits the ankles snugly. These are designed not to slide up arid down when you're walking. There's a real drawback though, once the fishing day is over. If you've sweated a little or slopped some water over the top, they're almost impossible to pull off. There's another style of boot that has very large ankles. These fit over your street shoes and are fine for incidental fishing.
Boot-type waders don't give your foot the support you may want for long fishing expeditions. A chain or strap around the ankle takes care of a little of this, but makes the boot less flexible. So, to save chafing and rubbing your foot with the unyielding boot and to avoid over-tiredness, you might try wading stockings, with either brogues, sandals, or boots over them. These all lace up as tightly as you wish, and make you more nimble and sure footed. Also, there is a cushion between the feet and the stream bottom. You'll find waders, and stocking-foot ones at that, on most expert fishermen.
Keep in mind the type of wading you intend to do when buying boots or waders. Rubber-cleated soles will get you by in most sandy or mud-bottomed streams. But if you're heading for rocky territory, felt soles or hobnails are best. Both are expensive and short-lived. Buying waders takes time, for you need to choose carefully. Try them on, take no size for granted. Shun those too short in the crotch they can hobble you seriously, and make fence climbing a trial.
A creel may be the best way to carry your fish, but it can become an in-the-way item when you latch onto a big one in midstream. If you can manage it, get a big one with plenty of air holes. Keep it clean and tackle-free.
Nets are handy. They're also cumbersome. Get one that's big enough, and then carry it as best you can. You might prefer a "French snap" or a leather thong to throw the net over your shoulder, or an elastic cord used the same way. Some anglers dangle the net from their wrist on an elastic band.
If you find some offbeat angling apparel that suits you to a "T", then wear it, no matter what others in the fishing fraternity may say. Advice and suggestions to the wind, what matters to you is the good or bad day you have on the water. You have to dress as you, and the fish, see fit.
THE END
COMEDY OF ERRORS
by Neale CoppleIF THE fishing hadn't been so doggoned bad, I never would have done it.
But the fishing was really bad. It was worse than that. It was the most biteless, strikeless, non-catchingest day a fisherman could hope not to have to lie about.
Of course, southeastern Nebraska is no great shakes for bass fishing, as is in the Sand Hills. You don't expect to go out and get your limit every time. In fact, you don't expect to get your limit at all. You're a pretty pleased guy if you can count three or four of the big-mouthed characters on your stringer at the end of the day.
But after you have plotted and timed a trip to your best spot you are entitled to expect just a little action—other than that of your wrists as you cast and retrieve, cast and retrieve, and cast and retrieve some more.
That was all the exercise I was getting—outside of a little vibration of the vocal chords as highly descriptive phrases slipped through now and then.
And who can blame me? I had been saving this series of little, but deep, sand pits along the Platte River. I had waited patiently for just the right time to hit them.
Earlier in the spring there had been action in shallower waters, streams, farm ponds, and the like. But as the rising temperature of the Nebraska summer sun had slowed the fishing in these places, I had prepared for my coupe de grace, which is French, I claim, for "a sure spot to nail a fighter".
For in these deep sand pits the water is much slower to warm. That had been my insurance against the summer fishing slump.
But apparently the slump had got the jump on me this time. Conditions seemed perfect. Whispering cottonwood trees strained the summer sun just enough so that it warmed but did not heat my back. Soft breezes whisked ripples back and forth across the water, cooling my face and hiding me just a little from the bass I knew waited at the edges of fast-growing weed patches.
But there the stinkers waited, no matter what I
dragged before them. All the dependable fly-rod
favorites got their turn. Poppers popped. Tiny silver spoons and spinners glinted enticingly. Streamers
slipped through the water. An array of fly-rod-size
OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
14
plugs wiggled, bobbed, and hulaed for an unappreciative audience.
I'll admit that the "Catastrophe" had been in the back of my mind even as I had started that morning, "just in case . . ."
I'm not an abnormally proud man. Especially am I not a proud fisherman. The fly rod was my first love, but I'm getting mighty attached to my second spinning rod, and there's the companion piece—a casting rod with a well-worn grip. And I'd prefer to use artificials, but they can disappear into the tackle box in nothing flat if the bait of the day turns out to be minnows, crawdads, worms, or about any of Mother Nature's own.
Nor do I imagine myself a "Fancy Dan" among fly tiers. But I never can slip my creation furtively out of the fly book and tie it quickly on the tapered leader without blushing just a little—even if I'm alone. Perhaps I hate to admit that any fish is fool enough to take Copple's Catastrophe.
But as dusk began to take some of the meanness out of the summer sun I reached that final point of desperation that, I'll admit, I have reached too many times in the past.
All my reputable lures struck out against old mossy. That's when I blushingly sent in the "It." The rest is historyIt was time. I snipped the lovely creation with which I had been flaying the water off the leader and reached for the ridiculous thing.
Despite myself, I grinned as I tied on that awful mess of feathers. The Catastrophe is probably the most miserable fly ever tied. It resembles no insect that ever lived. It resembles no pattern.
Born as a joke and perpetuated as a fish-getting necessity, this bad apple on the family tree of fishing lure artistry was conceived several years ago.
It happened at the end of a practice fly-tying session as an illustration of all I had learned not to do. The tail was a bit of red feather taken from the kind of feathers they pass around on days Nebraska's Cornhuskers are playing in Lincoln. The body was a sloppily, over-wrapped bit of peacock herb The hackle was dirty white and much too large for the hook. To remedy this I simply gave it a fuzz cut until it looked like something a brush salesman might pass out to clean the inside of a soda straw. To top off a bad job, I used too large a thread. When I tied off the head, the result was a lumpy black wad that gave the whole, horrible thing a top-heavy appearance.
I had chuckled after tying the blob and tossed it without thinking into the fly book.
Now, after recovering from momentary embarrassment, I chuckled again as I sent the great, great, great, great grandson of that original shameful thing out to the edge of the weeds, where no fish had risen.
The Catastrophe landed near an overhanging bush. It floated as I twitched it a time or two, and then sank. Then it bounced to the surface again. The Catastrophe acts in the water like a cross between a popper and a wet fly—if that makes any sense.
I twitched it again and there was a lovely swirl as the Catastrophe did its graceless work. It was not a bass, but a big bluegill doing those delightful things the flat fellows can do (continued on page 25)
APRIL, 1960 15
ITCHY FINS
You move when they move and you II make the annual migration for food and spouse pay off in bonus creels by Eugene D. Miller Area Research hAanagerTHE OLD angler, sitting in wait against a stream-side tree, was just about right when he said, "Heck, boy, I don't look for fish, they come to me." Though none of Nebraska's fish have been known to jump out of the water and into a creel, they do migrate from one place to another. The knowing angler can, with a little more effort than the old timer, make such movements pay bonuses in fuller creels.
Rainbow, brook, and brown trout as well as channel catfish, sauger, walleye, northern pike, carp, eels, and suckers migrate to some degree. The reason— they're on the move for food or spouse. Like most anything else, fish will move to spots where food is abundant. They are also selective in spawning sites.
Sometimes such fish movement seems to have no reason. Take the carp. In late spring, many will swim up tiny rain-fed streams. At times, the water is so shallow they seem to be crawling on their stomachs, making them sitting ducks to spear and bow-and-arrow fishermen. Suckers also fall prey to the Robin Hoods since they, too, move into such waters to spawn.
Why carp move upstream is a mystery. They can and do spawn very successfully in the shallow water of lakes void of outlets. And it's doubtful that the food supply is more abundant.
Some sportsmen have the idea that channel catfish pack up lock, stock, and barrel, come winter, and desert Nebraska rivers for the "warmer" waters of the lower Missouri. It just isn't so. Hundreds of catfish, for example, have been tagged in the dead of winter in waters many miles from the Missouri.
Channel catfish do migrate, however. In the
spring many move upstream prior to spawning. The
distance they travel varies, but it is this movement
that is largely responsible for the large concentrations of "cats" below obstructions across flowing
streams. Again fishermen use this trait to advantage,
taking plenty of these prized morsels from the tailraces of dams. Some say that a catfish will vacate
16
OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
one portion of a stream for greener pastures, his
place taken by another that began his migration
farther downstream. This is probably true, but as
yet has not been verified by research. By the way, if
you notice a period in the late spring or early summer when you can't creel cats, no matter how hard
you try, it could be they're spawning. During this
time the fish are pretty well occupied in nest building, mate finding, and, if males, guarding the nest.
The eel has one of the most pronounced migration habits. It lives in fresh-water streams, reaches sexual maturity, and then moves down river to the Gulf. From there it travels unerringly to the Sargasso Sea, spawns, and then dies. The young ascend the rivers, feed, and reach sexual maturity to complete the cycle. At Gavins Point last year I stopped a man for creel censusing who had caught an eel on a hook baited with worms. Surprised at such a catch, he said, "Darn funny when you can catch a bigger worm with a smaller one!"
The northern pike, with a southern appetite, furnishes both summer and winter angling. The fighters would seem almost impatient to begin the spawning run—they move upstream almost before the ice goes out. Northerns begin their swim to the shallow, vegetated upstream spots here during the last two weeks in March. Once spawning is over, they abandon their young (they return on their own) and head back to the main body of water. The fish culturist's job of collecting ripe northerns for egg stripping is simplified when they take advantage of this spawning habit. The northern pike can also spawn successfully in lakes, provided that such waters have vegetated shallows. Because gravel pits often lack this habitat, northerns are only occasionally recommended for stocking in such sites.
The walleye and yellow perch follow right at the heels of the northern, moving upstream shortly after the pike complete their run. Migration is most evident in a lake with feeder streams. In large rivers, such as the Missouri, spawning movements are a bit obscured, but is attested to by the congregation of walleye below obstructions. Both walleye and perch will spawn on reservoir rock rubble.
The sauger, "kissin' cousin" of the walleye, is more of a stream dweller. Again, the presence of large numbers below dams' show an upstream movement.
Most people are familiar with the migration of trout. Depending on the species, the run will occur in the winter or fall. Trout seek out cold, oxygen-saturated water. And once they find gravel beds, they deposit their eggs. Gravel is a must. The eggs are buried four to eight inches deep, and only gravel will allow the water to continually bathe the eggs.
There are other Nebraska species that could show some form of migration pattern. So little is known about them, however, that anything said would only be conjecture. The sturgeon, paddlefish, flathead catfish, mooneye, and goldeye fit into this bracket, since they congregate in large numbers below obstructions.
You might follow the old-timer's advice to let the fish come to you. But don't lay there. Have rod or spear ready so when they make their move you'll be on hand to make yours.
THE END
KICKOFF FOR PARKS
by Jack D. Strain Chief, Division of State Parks Accelerated program geared to greet visitor boom with new high in added facilitiesTHE OUTDOOR RECREATION boom which began throughout the country with the close of World War II has steadily increased and shows no signs of faltering. More Americans with more leisure time and money utilizing ever-improving transportation methods almost guarantee that there will be no change in this trend.
In Nebraska the Game Commission is shooting for its fifteenth straight record year in park attendance and a new high in added public facilities, pointing the way to the hottest year yet for outdoor-loving Nebraskans.
This widespread and insistent demand for more
and better state park facilities has resulted in a national awakening to the need which has been evidenced by expanded state park projects, the "Mission
66" program of the National Park Service, and the
greatly improved programs of many municipalities.
18
OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
The impact of the public demand for more outdoor-recreation opportunities is nowhere better reflected
than in the recent history of the various state park
programs.
In 1945, the 39 states that conducted park programs of consequence spent a total of approximately $10.5 million on their parks, and had an annual visitation of about 571/2-million people.
In 1950, 40 states spent over $36 million. Nationwide, state park attendance rocketed to a 114-million-visitor total. In 1958, the last year for which there is a complete record, all 48 states had state park systems. Over $73 million was spent on parks which accommodated over 237 million visitors. There is no doubt that figures for 1959 will show an equally dramatic increase for expenditures and visitations. Both Hawaii and Alaska are now progressing in the park field, and will help push these national totals even higher.
Although Nebraska got a comparatively late start in "beefing up" its state park agency, a decisive and progressive step forward was taken by the 1959 Legislature in the passage of L.B. 408. It provided the basic legislation required to conduct a modern operation, and established a .13 mill levy for a 10-year period to finance the program.
While not of sufficient income potential to accomplish the job that must be done, the levy marks the first time in the state's history that the Commission has had a calculable source of revenue available for park planning and development over an extended period of time.
The text of the legislation, in addition to laying out the format for a long-range development plan, establishes four classifications of state park areas: (1) state parks, (2) state historical parks, (3) state recreation areas, and (4) state wayside areas.
Basic criteria and purpose of these area classifications are as follows:
State parks must have substantial area and state-wide significance with a complete development potential. The factilities of such parks will be directed toward serving family vacation needs.
State historical parks may include sites of various sizes and types but must be of notable statewide historical significance. The purpose of these areas will be to preserve and perpetuate certain historical areas, and to interpret each sites significance.
State recreation areas might well be called secondary state parks. In general, they will neither be as large nor as extensively developed as the primary parks. Facilities will be largely of the day-use variety.
State wayside areas will be small tracts located immediately adjacent to the major highways. The primary purpose of these areas will be to provide rest stops and picnic areas for the traveling public.
Although it may be understandably difficult for many to see any real difference between certain area classifications at the outset, the purposes of the various types of areas will become better defined as development progresses.
A basic requirement for a state or historical park category, for instance, is that such an area must be of unique state-wide significance in one or more of several qualifications. On the other hand, a state recreation area is expected to serve only local or regional needs. Facilities or features would be similar to other such sites over the state.
Actually, the four basic area classifications and criteria have long been standard in many other states with progressive park programs.
Our first big job under the new program is the classification or reclassification of all existing Commission-owned or operated areas into one of the four categories. In addition, an over-all recreation plan must be developed. Any areas that do not fit into one of the four categories—and there will be many—will be designated as state special-use areas. Usage at such sites will revolve primarily around wildlife-management activities. They will not be financed by state park monies, but rather from fish-and-game funds.
Since it was evident that the new mill levy would
not yield income in any significant quantities until
the end of the 1959 calendar year, the Legislature
voted an interim appropriation for park operation
and maintenance purposes, and to "get the ball rolling" on development in the period following the
APRIL, 1960
19
expiration of the last fiscal appropriation on June
30, 1959.
The Commission lost no time in putting these funds to work.
Plans for much-needed development on a number of areas which had long been held for financing were initiated. Following are areas scheduled for improvements to be completed in 1960:
Ponca State Park now boasts a new 16-unit cabin area. Sites for eight of the cabins have been selected and cleared, two new units are near completion, and two more will be ready for occupancy this spring. A new administrative-residence building also has been completed. In addition, work will soon start on relocation and improvement of group camp facilities. Also important in getting the park ready for increased use will be the hard surfacing of a critical 1 1/2 miles of the major interior park road. About 170 acres of desirable land has been added to the popular site. This addition is extremely important since Ponca is near the state's population center.
Chadron State Park at the opposite end of the state is of equal importance because of its extensive size and typical representation of the Pine Ridge area. The park—long considered a major vacation site—has a running start in the new program. It has been steadily developed as funds become available.
A modern swimming pool to meet the requirements of vacationers and to complement the popular group camp which annually accommodates many hundreds of young people has long been a major need. The pool now is in the advanced planning stage and will be completed sometime this summer. Also scheduled are major improvements to the group camp area, and the construction of adequate facilities to meet the growing requirements of tent and trailer campers.
Research and archeological work will soon be initiated at Fort Kearny State Park. Both are necessary in the development of the famed immigrant trail outpost, and represent Nebraska's first step in state historical park development.
Niobrara State Park has risen in popularity since the completion of Lewis and Clark Lake on the Missouri River. The new lake is within easy driving distance of the park, and a general lack of overnight facilities there has placed a premium on the modern rental cabins.
Half of the old single cabins at Niobrara are presently being altered to modern "doubles" to meet the demand. The remainder will be remodeled in the near future as funds become available.
Routine maintenance operations will be carried out at other state park sites, as well as the many recreation areas. Parks include Arbor Lodge, Fort Robinson Park Facility, Stolley, and Victoria Springs.
Reservoirs in the southwest portion of the state are also scheduled for continued development with work begun last fall to be completed this spring. This involves new interior roads, beaches, shelter houses, improved parking areas, additional latrines, and boat ramps.
Improvements are scheduled for other areas as well, although generally of less extent as far as any individual site is concerned. Of major interest, however, is news that all Commission areas will "blossom out" with new signs this year.
Attractive metal signs have been designed in co-operation with the Department of Roads. These will be installed on highways adjacent to all park and special use areas. In addition, newly designed entrance signs will be erected at all major Commission areas throughout the state.
Even with the improvements scheduled at the park areas over the next several years, it will be impossible to meet all the public requirements at peak load periods. It's a shame, for instance, that many of the fine vacation cabins stand vacant in late May and early June, then become overloaded, with people sometimes turned away during the school vacation period. Actually, the late May-early June and early September periods are often the best times for vacations, especially for those interested in fishing. Anyone who can take advantage of these slack periods may well find it a rewarding experience.
Vacationers planning to utilize state recreation sites this summer will find in those areas mentioned many exciting signs of progress. These long-awaited developments, initiated through the passage of L.B. 408, are a big first step toward a modern state park program. And as more funds become available, Nebraskans will see even more dramatic changes, affording a host of recreation opportunities they so well deserve.
THE END 20 OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
Outdoor Elsewhere
Beaver vs. BiologistsNEW JERSEY . . . Fisheries biologists draining Lake Ocquittunk for a population study ran up against four determined beaver this winter. The beaver family became perturbed when the water level began to drop. Hastily they extended their home farther out into the lake, at the expense of a few Stokes State Forest trees. They finally must have realized that the future looked pretty bleak, and decided to put a stop to this nonsense. Since the flow of water was reduced at night, the beaver took their revenge then. For three days the "Battle of Lake Ocquittunk" raged. It consisted of (1) beaver and family plugging the valve at night, and (2) the draining crew unplugging during the day. During the three-day period the lake was lowered a total of only six inches. Finally the draining crew resorted to dirty tactics and stayed at the lake all night. Summing up the battle scars the following day were two tired biologists and four angry beaver. Also included in the statistics were approximately 60 birch and alder trees up to two inches in diameter, which were cut and used by the beaver, along with many pounds of mud and weeds.
MISSOURI ... A buck deer killed last season achieved a measure of fame as the long-distance champion among deer in Missouri, when he traveled 140 miles from his release site. Number 1881 was trapped and transported to north Missouri. Evidently not satisfied with his new home, he moved south, outdistancing the previous record of 83 miles. The bagged buck also had the distinction of having had his antlers sawed off to fit him into the transfer crate back in 1955.
TENNESSEE ... A drunken motorboat operator recently was fined $100 for reckless and negligent operation as a result of a wild ride on Dale Hollow Lake, a U. S. Army Corps of Engineers impoundment in Tennessee. The operator and a companion also were fined $24.25 each on charges of public drunkenness. At the helm of a 14-foot run about, the pair "buzzed" several boats and forced swimmers to the shore. Herded to shore themselves by county law enforcement personnel the pair was taken into custody by the Tennessee Highway Patrol. On the strength of testimony by several persons, Coast Guard officials assessed the $100 fine under provisions of the Federal Boating Act of 1958.
* * * Lucky LadNEW HAMPSHIRE . . . Recently Leslie Seamans of Grafton heard a commotion and his dog barking loudly. Upon investigating he saw his five-year-old son sprawled on the ground poking at something under the barn with a shingle. He asked what the boy had. "Got a big cat," was the answer. And indeed he did—a bobcat. The boy's face was within two feet of the cat; luckily the animal didn't take a swipe at him with its claws. Seamans shot the cat, and somewhat shakenly collected the $20 bounty.
* * * Gadget SmellsMISSOURI . . . The Missouri Conservation Commission thinks inventors have surpassed themselves. The latest, they say, is a mechanical gadget that exudes a human smell to scare animals away from a farmer's crops. Used in Europe, it is called a "Vilden Schaden Uhr" (game damage clock). It winds up like a clock, and at 15-minute intervals for some eight days throws out a human scent. It's effective at 300 yards on red deer, roe deer, and wild boars. So if you're troubled by boars, here's your answer.
* * *Go Bear BOWFISHING THIS YEAR
FIND THE VIOLATIONS
You're the sleuth after Sam and Joe. Can you spot their fishing infractions?THE BIG man was making a lazy May-day waltz of mowing the lawn. Halfway through, he was thinking of cooler climes and much more pleasant things to do than playing plow horse to a brokendown lawn mower. Sam was a fisherman, first, last, and always, and anything that kept him from his sport was held in complete disdain. 1
Know your game laws? These anglers didn't. See if you can find their 17 errors, then compare your answers with those on page 24"Rather go fishing?" his neighbor, a Nebraska resident since late March asked tauntingly, picking this moment to cross the crew-cut greenery that separated their homes. "I've been laying there, thinking you're not so eager to show 'Old Joe' those great Nebraska waters you've been bragging about."
"No, I'd rather stay here and cut the lawn," Sam answered the smaller man, going along with the kidding. "Some of our lunkers might pull you in, and I'd hate to lose a friend. We don't fish for minnows here like you did in your home state. We go after the big ones." 2
"Scared to show me what you have," Joe challenged. 3
The fishing fever had really taken a grip on Sam. "There's always some fine early-spring angling at the federal migratory waterfowl refuge," he mused, rubbing his chin. "Some refuge lakes are open after the spring waterfowl migration passes through. Okay, I'll call your bluff. That thing," he pointed at the lawn mower, "can sit there till it snows. Do you have a fishing permit?" 4
"You bet," Joe commented. "I bought one of those bargain $4 combinations. Sure a lot cheaper to hunt and fish in this state than back home. What are we going to do about bait?" 5
"Grab your gear, and I'll worry about the bait," Sam said. "I have my fishing gear already in the car. And bring your .22 pistol, we might see some young cottontails. They are real good eating this early in the spring." 6
Once under way, Sam said that he knew a spot where they could stop off to seine minnows. The place, he said, was full of rough fish and they wouldn't have to worry about breaking the law by taking game fish. It didn't take long to get several buckets of carp and buffalo minnows, once they reached the pond. 7
At the waterfowl refuge they stopped at a small lake Sam knew was teeming with bass. Quickly they put on the minnows and flipped their offerings into the lake. The bait had no sooner touched the water than a strike jarred Joe's rod. The fish put up a real battle, but Joe was soon the winner over a nice four-pound bass. 8
Parting company, the pair started to work around the lake. They tried weed beds, drop offs, and debris areas. The action was fast, and both men had a number of strikes. When they met several hours later, Joe had five largemouth bass and Sam four. 9
"I'll have to take back what I said about Nebraska fishing," Joe quipped. "This is some of the best I've enjoyed. But there are a few carp. I caught a couple and tossed them up on the bank." 10
The sun at high noon was too warm for fishing
but just right for eating and resting. The pair reeled
22
OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
in their lines and retreated to the shade of a big
oak. 1 1
"Ever do any night catfishing?" Sam questioned as he got out his lunch. 1 2
"No, but I would sure like to try," Joe said, gulping down a sandwich. 13
"I've got a bait that can't be beat on 'old Whiskers'," Sam confided. "Discovered it when I was vacationing in Kentucky a while back. The lodge owner where we were staying sold me some goldfish for bait. I brought some home and started raising them in my aquarium. The last time out, I caught a 30-pounder in Sutherland Reservoir with one." 14
"What kind of catfish gear do you use?" Joe queried. 15
"I usually fish small rivers and set banklines," Sam said. "I put out six or seven lines with five hooks on each rig. The law allows five hooks on each line. If the fishing is slow, I pass the time with a flashlight and spear. You can spear rough fish here. I've had a lot of fun walking along the bank, shining the light and trying to spear carp in some of the shallow water." 16
"My wife sure wanted to come fishing today," Joe commented. "How about your spouse? Is she the outdoor type?" 17
"Never owned a hunting or fishing license, but I think she's getting the fever," Sam replied. "We had a picnic last week and went out to a good bluegill pond. I put several lines out and walked back to the car to get the lunch. My wife was supposed to call me if a bobber went under. Well, both bobbers disappeared at the same time, and my wife got excited. Instead of calling me she ran down and landed two bluegills. Boy, she was fit to be tied." 18
"From the looks of the sun, would say it's time we started fishing," Joe remarked. "We still have a couple of hours before we check in." 19
"No, I don't want to miss supper," Sam replied. "There's a couple of grouse I shot last fall thawing."
The two returned to the lake. Within two hours Sam had added two more bass to his creel. His companion took the honors with seven bass. 21
"Tell you what I'm going to do." Sam offered as he stowed his gear, "I have six more bass at home so, if you'll join us, I'll throw a fish fry tomorrow."
It wasn't long before they hit the highway and headed home. 23
"Careful with the speed," Joe warned. "You promised me a cottontail. At this rate you'll never be able to slow down in time for a shot." 24
"Oh, we'll be okay," Sam said, "the pistol is loaded and ready to go. It's against the law to carry a loaded shotgun in a car but you can carry a loaded pistol. It's a lot easier, too. All you have to do is jump out of the car and blast away." 25
"There's a cottontail," Joe yelled. "Stop the car."
The car squealed to a stop and Joe piled out on the road, taking a quick shot at the fleeing bunny. The bullet kicked up dirt at the animal's heels as it disappeared over a small hill. 26
"Tough luck," Sam laughed. "There'll be another day." 27
The two friends were soon home and agreed it had been a fine day of fishing. In the not too far future, they would try Sam's secret on Nebraska catfish.
THE END APRIL, 1960 23
SPORTSMAN SHOPPER
An improved model of the camp-cot mattress widely used by school camps and youth groups is now ready for the individual camper also. Advertised by Forest City Products, Inc. as the only truly hygienic camp-cot mattress on the market today, the new model is completely waterproof covered, with double-reinforced seams stitched with vinylcoated tape. The mattress is sanitary, stain proof, odorless, mold and mildew proof, and rodent and pest proof. It is flame resistant, extra long (30 x 74 inches) and lightweight (6 pounds).
Model K-l Sentinel polyether camp-cot mattress consists of a solid extra-firm piece of polyether foam, a new multicellular plastic material having exceptional strength and long life. The polyether slab is sealed in a ticking triplecoated with a rugged blend of Dupont vinyl resin compounds.
The mattress is sold direct from the factory, and is priced at $15.40. Cost is lower when purchased in quantity. Forest City Products, Inc., 722 Bolivar Road, Cleveland 15, Ohio, is the maker.
A moderately priced target version of thet22 caliber Model 69 rifle is being offered to beginning marksmen by the Winchester-Western Division of Olin Mathieson Chemical Corporation.
The new rifle, a refinement of the standard Model 69, is designed for those who wish the accuracy and accessory equipment necessary in a target rifle without investing in the type of firearm used by advanced marksmen. The Junior Target Shooters Special Model 69 has Lyman 57 receiver sights—with 1/4-minute micrometer adjustments for elevation and windage—combined with Marine Corps-type post sights. A 1 l/4-inch fore end sling swivel is included.
The stock is designed for four position shooting and can readily be cut down to fit junior shooters. Later the cut-off piece may be refitted to proper length as the youngster grows.
ANSWERS
Find the ViolationsParagraph 5: "I bought one of those bargain $'4 combinations." A person must reside in the state for 90 days before applying for a resident permit. Joe moved to the state in late March and the action took place in May. Military personnel, upon satisfactory proof that such person has been actually present for duty in the state for a period of 30 days or more, can get a resident permit.
Paragraph 8: "they put on minnows . . ." through ". . . nice four-pound bass." Four violations. The two men (1) transported carp and buffalo minnows to the lake and (2) were using them. A new regulation reads: "Bait—It shall be unlawful to use for bait, or to sell or transport or offer for bait, any carp, carpsucker, buffalo, gar, goldfish, quillback, or dogfish, and any minnows or fish of any of these species taken shall not be returned to any waters of the state, but shall be destroyed."
Violation No. 3 is the fact that it was unlawful for the two men to use for bait any minnow, fish or parts thereof, either alive or dead, or have in possession any such bait, or any seine or net that may be used for capturing minnows on the federal waterfowl refuges in the state. When Joe tossed out his line (4) he was breaking the law as it is illegal to angle for or take or attempt to take any kind of fish while in the possession of a resident permit illegally obtained.
Paragraph 10: "there are a few carp in your lake. I caught a couple and tossed them up on the bank." It is unlawful for any person to leave any fish, either game or non-game, on the banks of any stream, lake, or other body of water in this state.
Paragraph 14: Sam was talking about using goldfish and said, "... I caught a 30-pounder in Sutherland Reservoir." Two violations—using goldfish for bait and transporting them to the lake.
Paragraph 16: ". . . six or seven lines with five hooks on each rig." It is unlawful to angle in any inland water with more than 15 hooks in aggregate.
Paragraph 16: ". . . shining the light and trying to spear carp . . ." Spearing is only legal between sunrise and sunset from April 1 to December 1.
Paragraph 18: ". . . she ran down and pulled out two nice fat ones." He had stated his wife had never owned a fishing license. So she was fishing without a permit.
Paragraph 20: "... a couple of grouse I shot last fall thawing." Grouse season closed in October. It. is unlawful to possess any game bird at any time except during open season, and for 90 days thereafter.
Paragraph 22: "I have six more bass . . ." The implication being six more largemouth bass. With the five he caught, Sam had in his possession 11. The possession limit on largemouth bass is 10.
Paragraph 26: ". . . piled out on road, taking a quick shot at the fleeing bunny." Four violations. It is (1) unlawful for a nonresident to hunt for, kill, shoot at, pursue, take, or possess any kind of game birds or game animal while in the possession of a resident permit illegally obtained. Also, (2) he was shooting from the road and it is unlawful to shoot from any public highway at any bird or animal protected by game laws. The moment Joe shot from the road, the gun (3) became an illegal device and subject to seizure and confiscation. Also, (4) Sam was an accessory and could be arrested.
THE END 24 OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
SPEAK UP
Send your questions to "Speak Up/' OUTDOOR NEBRASKA, Stale Capitol, Lincoln 9, Nebraska "My Minnows are Dying""I have some bait minnows which I can't seem to keep alive. I keep them in a galvanized tub with water running slowly into it from a hose. I feed them goldfish food, but they seem to die in a few days. Another question I have is, do fish spawn more than once a year? I recently caught a catfish, and it seemed to have eggs forming. Last year I caught a carp that also had eggs in October."—M. J. Timms, David Cily.
There may be several reasons you can't hold minnows for any period of time. You say your container is galvanized. The zinc coating is very toxic to fish, and they cannot be exposed to it for any length of time. Possibly another reason is that you are using city water which is chlorinated. This also will take its toll. Minnows should be held in a pond large enough to produce microscopic food—animal and food plankton. As to eggs, catfish and carp as a rule spawn but once a year. The eggs that you found are ones that will be released next spring or summer. Soon after a fish spawns, the eggs for the following year begin forming.—Editor.
* * * Prairie Dogs"Where can a 13-year-old boy get 20 or 25 shots per day at prairie dogs in Nebraska under 150 yards with a .22 or .222? I would like to try for them some week end."—George Mangold, Bennington.
There are no dog concentrations in your part of the state. The Sand Hills, of course, are the stronghold of these animals, particularly along stream courses. You will, however, find a few patches of them in Thayer and Webster counties. A fairly good-sized town is located in northern Sioux County.
If you wanted to make a camp-out of your week end of hunting, you might try the Game Commission's Pressy Recreation Grounds south of Broken Bow. Firearms are prohibited there from April 1 through September 30. If you shoot on private land, remember to ask permission.—Editor.
* * * Bald Eagles in Alaska"I read with interest your January article on the bald eagle and the fantastic statement that there were only 1,000 pairs alive on the North American continent. If this is true, the Chilkat Valley near Haines has almost all of them. It is possible any Sunday afternoon to drive up the Haines Cutoff Highway and see three or four hundred within a stone's throw of the road. They concentrate here during the fall and winter months to eat the salmon and their spawn. Actually, though, almost every river in southern Alaska can boast the same number of the big birds, so your estimate would have to be multiplied many times." Phillip H. Jones, M.D., Haines,
Our reference to the eagle population was taken from the November, 1957, issue of the Atlantic Monthly. In it Edwin Way Teale, author and naturalist, says, "In all of the 48 states of the Union today probably fewer than a thousand pairs of these great birds are still alive." Mr. Teale obviously had reference to the United States at that time, but now since Alaska is a fellow state the number of eagles has multiplied considerably, since your state is one of the last strongholds of the bird.—Editor.
* * * Camp-Stove Maker"In reference to your 'Sportsman's Shopper' in the February is sue, I would like very much to buy the Swedish camp stove described there. It is distributed by Rexo-Therm, Inc., but no address is given."—Carl Gustafson, Cozad.
This camping stove is apparently so new that few local sports stores handle it yet. The American distributor, Rexo-Therm/Sievert Sales, Inc., is located in Naperville, III., and they would be very glad to help you.—Editor.
* * * Opening Days and Trespassers"I have two questions. First, why do the pheasant and quail seasons open on a Saturday? Wouldn't it be better to have them open on Sunday and give the farmers a chance to get in on opening day hunting? This is the harvest season, and many farmers are in the fields that day.
Second, what should a person do when he finds people deliberately hunting on posted property? On opening day, I posted my father's property because we were harvesting. Less than an hour after posting the land, we found a party of hunters on it. When we came up to them they were abusive. Since we didn't know what to do, we only requested that they leave."—Wayne Hahn, Lincoln.
When setting hunting seasons, the Game Commission must consider all sporting elements. Many city dwellers count on opening week end, for this may be their one chance to get out in the field. We try to give them as long an opportunity to hunt as possible. The farmer has two very important advantages over the town hunter— he knows where the birds are on his own property, and he can pick up his gun and go out any time during the season, often when hunting conditions are much better.
As to your second question, remember that a person with permission can hunt on posted property. If you don't want hunters on your own land the only legal recourse you have is to go to town and sign a complaint against the particular party you found there. —Editor.
* * * Travels of a Coot"I would like to know when, where, and how the mud hen or coot migrates. I never see them flying south or north in flocks as the other species do."—Gene Moody Purdum.
Our biologists say that the coots start arriving in mid-March, with the big build-up a little later. They move south in September and early October with the early waterfowl migration. At these times they are seen mostly in small parties, or often singly. Most of their traveling is done after dark. They breed in the northern states, including Nebraska, and winter in the swampy parts of the southern states where they gather in large flocks.—Editor.
COMEDY OF ERRORS
(continued from page 15)to a rod. With the fly you don't fish for any particular species. You sort of toss it out there and let it, in its ungainly way, see what's crazy enough to make a pass, and hope for the best.
While the next strike was a small bass—a pound or so—most of the rest were nice, spread-hand-size bluegills, each reminding you that they can lay an honest claim as contenders in the lightweight division for fly rods. But they're suckers for the Catastrophe. I don't know why, and I've wondered many times since that moment of unseeming levity v/hen the fly was born. But many months and a dozen full platters of crisply-fried pan fish have been conscience salve enough to send me back time after time to the vise to create more Catastrophes.
THE END
Notes on Nebraska Fauna
SPOTTED SKUNK
Hold your nose and retreat if you happen upon this critter in the wilds. Hes small but potent if you arouse his ire. Handsomest of the skunks, hes said to be on the decline in parts of countryWHEN the spotted skunk, Spilogale pulorius, presents his backside, look out! Once his body whips into a U-shaped firing position, he's on target. And when his tail arches stiffly toward the sky— as significant as the hoisting of a red and white hurricane flag—he's ready to unloose a stinging smell that will carry a good half mile, and momentarily blind his most unfortunate victim.
It may be hard to believe, but the spotted skunk has a more potent spray than his "polecat" cousin. Fortunately, the odor doesn't have the lasting power of the striped skunk. As everyone knows, all skunks enjoy a wide, unmolested path in the wild, with usually only the great horned owl willing to subject himself to such a degrading spray for a meal. Audubon had it right when he said:
"There is no quadruped on the continent of North America, the approach of which is more generally detested than that of the skunk. Even the bravest of our boasting race is, by this little animal, compelled to break off his train of thought, hold his nose, and run—as if a lion were at his heels."
The spotted skunk is
one of the most interesting members of the musk
carrying family, which runs from the small-but-tough weasel to the wolverine, one of the meanest
animals in the wilds today. Others in the Mustelidae
family include the mink, otter, marten, fisher, ferret,
striped skunk, and badger. Most find the spotted
variety far more interesting than its cousins, the
striped and hog-nosed skunks. It's smaller, prettier,
and more lively. Weighing between one and two
pounds and reaching 14 to 22 inches in length, the
small slender animal is about half as large as a
house cat. It has a small head, short legs, and a
bushy tail. The skunk's fur is long, soft, and black
26
OUTDOOR NEBRASKA
with a number of long narrow stripes which tend to
break up across his body.
There are 22 different varieties of spotted skunks. The eastern is common here. The small animal is not as plentiful as the striped skunk, and according to recent Nebraska fur-harvest records, about four polecats have been taken for every spotted skunk. Some wildlife authorities here are concerned about its status, believing that it is on the decline.
Called everything in the book by those subjected to its spray, this skunk has been named a "civet cat" and "phobey", or "hydrophobia cat". Both are erroneous. The spotted skunk is not related to the Old World civet, nor is it any more likely to carry rabies than any other susceptible animal.
During mating, males may go a bit wild, probably one reason they are called phobey cats. During one such occasion, one scented straight into a bull's face, driving the big animal out of his dusty bed. Another is said to have invaded a wolf's nursery and shook the young wolves by the ears. This "mating madness" has led to many false stories of hydrophobia.
Not too much is known about the species' breeding habits. The male selects his mates in late winter. The air at such times is a little more than blue as the hopeful males growl, paw the ground, and generally stink up the entire countryside in their excitement.
The young arrive in early spring. The average litter is four. Young skunks are almost naked, weigh a third of an ounce, and are four inches long. Although finely haired, their black-and-white pattern can be plainly seen. The young skunks' eyes and ears are closed, and they are toothless. When hungry, they cry continuously like a nestful of baby birds. At such a tender age, they squeal every time they are disturbed. As they grow older, they endure their discomforts in silence.
By five weeks the young skunks are walking clumsily. Their eyes have been open for several days. Weighing five ounces each, they measure five inches from nose to tail. They are the size of their parents at five months and emulate their every move as they grub for food.
The spotted skunk eats almost anything available. In the summer and fall insects serve as the main course. At all seasons, but especially in the winter and spring, he'll prey on various rodents. He's one of the best mousers you can find. The skunk doesn't lift his nose to carrion, nor does he hesitate when a salamander, lizard, crayfish, or snake presents itself. Fruits of all kinds prove tasty morsels. Ground-dwelling birds are a delicacy, and he'll eat adult birds, chicks, or eggs. Barnyard fowl as well as quail, doves, and meadow larks all are taken.
The pelt of the spotted skunk is much prettier than that of his cousins, although it has no more value. The fur is used as coat trimming but does not bring much money to the trapper.
The little animal is nocturnal, doing most of his snooping at night. He's much more agile than his cousins. Thanks to his hind legs, he can easily climb trees and takes to them often when the occasion arises. Unlike the polecat, the spotted skunk prefers brushy places. In the southeastern part of the country he can be found in gullies and waste areas. Abandoned woodchuck and badger holes, hollow logs and stumps, brush piles and buildings all serve well as den sites.
It doesn't take long to discover a skunk when he sets up housekeeping under a building. To get rid of the smell and the animal, place about a pound of moth balls in the den. Fortunately, there are smells that even the skunk can't stand. If you get a direct hit, bathe your eyes in water to speed relief.
Every outdoorsman has his own idea of how to take care of "skunked" clothing. Some say to wash the contaminated articles in vinegar. Others point out that hanging them over a smoking fire works well (if you don't mind the smell of smoke). One went so far as to suggest that all sprayed apparel be buried in the ground for several days, then sent to the dry cleaners. And of course there are always those that just plain burn their garb and forget the whole stinking affair.
That "even your best friends won't tell you . . ." TV commercial that makes all of us shudder doesn't bother the spotted skunk in the least. His smell is his defense, and even if he could, he wouldn't be willing to rid himself of such a potent weapon. Man and animal must accept their fate, ever destined to put up with the skunk and his smell.
THE END APRIL, 1960 27
