Trail to:
 Webmaster's Books: Deer Hunting in the Adirondacks  Click here to order  Available in bookstores and by phone or mail order Click Here For Inf- Where's Dan?  (Follow Dan on Facebook)  Webmaster's Uncle killed this 18-point Adirondack buck in the late 1960's.  Read Webmaster's articles in these publications     OUTDOOR PERSPECTIVES Press Republican Plattsburgh, NY --------------- NEW YORK OUTDOOR NEWS CLICK HERE DETAILS Have you donated? Please support Venison Donation Coalition   Bad News: Emerald Ash Borer hits the Catskills  New York's New Outdoor APP 
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Change in the Air: Many
small game seasons wrapped up on Feb. 28 throughout New York. Still, in
the Adirondack region seasons continue for cottontail and snowshoe
rabbits as well as coyotes. Don't forget, ice shanties need to be off
local lakes by March 15, regardless of ices conditions. Trappers,
meanwhile, should take note of the DEC's 10-year Fisher Managment proposal, (below). Be sure to read and submit comments to DEC on this by March 21. Click here for 2014 deer sesason reportsOver the course of the Spring and onto the warm weather months we will be making some changes to the ADKHunter.com website. It's going ot be an experimental process as we check out different formats and look for ways for the website to be more tablet and phone friendly while still being a desktop-style site. During the rebuild some things may come and go and may come back again. We're just giving regular readers a heads-up as our goal is to get everything in top working order by deer season, which is by far our busiest. Thanks in advance for your patience. -Webmaster, March 2, 2015
 Lookin' South:
This is primarily and Adirondack-themed website. We're proud of where
we live, where we hunt and why we do what we do up here. As this
website has grown over the years time restrictions have forced us to
omit hunts and photos of hunts that happen outside the Adirondacks, or
at least the Northern Zone. That said, we have a few Southern Zone
photos that come in from fans of this website and we usually try to get
them up some time during the winter when things are less busy. Well,
they're never less busy, but that's OK. One thing about hunting in the Southern Zone these days is the fact that more big bucks are being taken. This is obviously due to the fact that hunters are passing up smaller bucks more often then ever before. Whether it's by choice, by regulation or as part of a QDM-coop; there are more nice bucks being taken in the south every year. When you look at the photos we've posted you'll see for yourself. In the meantime, it's ice fishing season in the Adirondacks and there are still some small game seasons open, including coyotes. If you get out, be safe and have some fun and maybe we'll see you out there or at one of the events we've got listed here. Latest Adirondack & Northern Zone
Hunting Photos
Click here for more photos from 2014
Adirondack Bucks: Through the years - Click here for more Best Of photos from 2000-2013 NEWS Draft Fisher Management Plan Now Available for Public Review and Comment
The
10-year draft fisher management plan is out for public review and
comment through March 21, the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced today. The draft plan
describes the goals, objectives and strategies that will guide DEC's
actions and decisions related to management of fisher populations in
New York over the next ten years (2015-2025). The plan advances two
primary goals for managing fisher populations in New York:
The fisher is a large, dark, long-haired member of the weasel family that inhabits forested and semi-forested land throughout much of New York State and the northern United States. Historically, their numbers declined sharply during the late 1800s and early 1900s due to over-exploitation and loss of forested habitat. Restoration programs, re-forestation and the regulation of trapping have allowed fishers to become well established and people have enjoyed sustainable harvest opportunities for this species since the 1950s in northern New York and the 1980s in southeastern New York. In addition to trapping opportunities, many citizens have enjoyed observing these predators in their natural habitats across the state. Over the past 20 years, populations have expanded into central and western New York and sightings in these regions are now common. The plan summarizes existing data on fisher populations and harvests and defines more specific objectives and strategies for each of the following fisher management zones: Northern; Southeastern; and Central/Western New York. New York City and Long Island are excluded because historically fishers did not exist in that region of the state and populations do not currently exist there. A fundamental part of the plan is that fisher populations can generally sustain annual harvest rates of approximately 20 percent. Therefore, the plan proposes the following adjustment to current fisher trapping regulations, beginning in 2015: Reduce the fisher trapping season from 46 days to 22 days in selected Adirondack Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) in Northern New York, where harvests may be exceeding 20 percent and populations have declined in recent years. Establish a limited 9-day open trapping season, with a one-fisher seasonal limit, in selected WMUs in Central/Western New York to provide new opportunities for sustainable use of this natural resource. Surveys by DEC staff in collaboration with researchers at Cornell University used trail cameras at more than 600 locations to document that fishers are now well-established throughout the southernmost WMUs in this region. The proposed changes to trapping regulations would remain in effect for at least three years and then be evaluated to determine if additional changes are warranted. No changes are proposed for Southeastern New York at this time because the current regulations provide ample trapping opportunity, harvest rates remain below 20 percent, and populations are stable or increasing. The draft management plan is available on the DEC website. The comment period on the draft plan runs through March 21, 2015. Comments may be submitted in writing to: NYSDEC Bureau of Wildlife, Fisher Management Plan, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4754 or by e-mail to wildlife@dec.ny.gov (type "Fisher Plan" in the subject line). DEC ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR PHEASANT RELEASE PROGRAM
(3/2) The
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced
today that the application period has begun for its cooperative Day-Old
Pheasant Chick Program, which enhances opportunities for pheasant
hunting in New York. The program provides pheasant hunting
opportunities through a partnership with sportsmen and sportswomen, 4-H
youth, and landowners who are interested in rearing and releasing
pheasants.
The Day-Old Pheasant Chick Program began in the early 1900s. DEC provides day-old chicks at no cost to participants who are able to provide a brooding facility, a covered outdoor rearing pen, and an adequate release site. Approved applicants will receive the day-old chicks in April, May, or June. No chicks obtained through the Day-Old Pheasant Chick Program can be released on private shooting preserves, and all release sites must be approved in advance by DEC and must be open for public pheasant hunting opportunities. The program is funded through the State Conservation Fund from license fees paid by hunters, trappers, and anglers. The birds require daily care to monitor the health of the birds and to ensure there is adequate feed and water for the rapidly growing chicks. The pheasants may be released beginning when they are eight weeks old and no later than Dec. 1. Individuals interested in these programs should contact their nearest DEC regional office (please refer to offices listed below) for applications and additional information. In 2014, DEC distributed 37,500 day-old pheasant chicks to qualified 4-H and sportsmen applicants. Applications must be filed with a DEC regional wildlife manager by March 15, 2015 - see contact information below. R5 - Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties: 1115 Route 86, PO Box 296 Ray Brook, NY 12977 (518) 897-1291 R6 - Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida and St. Lawrence counties: 317 Washington Street Watertown, NY 13601 (315) 785-2263 A “Pheasant Rearing Guide” is available on the DEC website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7271.html. Draft Conservation Plan for Bald Eagles in New York State Now Available for Public Review and Comment Comments Accepted Until April 10 (3/2)
A proposed conservation plan to manage New York’s population of the
bald eagle is now available for public review and comment, New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe
Martens announced today. The Conservation Plan for Bald Eagles in
New York State describes the historic and current status of the bald
eagle in the state and provides guidelines for future management
actions.
“New York State was instrumental in the restoration and recovery of the bald eagle in the northeast United States and continues to play an important role in providing suitable habitat for our nation’s symbol,” Commissioner Martens said. “Since the bald eagle depends primarily on freshwater rivers, lakes and streams for its food, a flourishing eagle population is a good indicator of New York’s high quality water ways. Conservation of the bald eagle and its habitat plays an important role in preserving our biodiversity and ecosystem health. The plan aims to maintain the bald eagle’s geographic diversity and ultimately ensure a healthy population within the state.” The bald eagle, currently listed as a threatened species in New York, continues to make a remarkable recovery across the state. The Conservation Plan serves as a guide for landowners, resource managers, local government agencies and other stakeholders to manage and perpetuate the bald eagle and its habitat in New York. This plan is also intended to inform the public of actions recommended to achieve the goal of a continued healthy bald eagle population, including its essential habitat and the ecosystems it depends upon. The plan establishes objectives for bald eagles in New York and lays out actions to accomplish those objectives. Key objectives include:
Key actions to meet these objectives include:
-Land clearing;
-Increased human disturbance; -Collisions with cars, trains, electric lines, wind turbines and other structures; and, -Environmental contaminants including lead and PCBs.
DEC will accept comments on the draft plan until Friday, April 10, 2015. Comments or questions should be addressed by email to wildlife@dec.ny.gov (note “bald eagle” in the subject line), or by phone, contact Dan Rosenblatt at 518-402-8884. Comments can also be mailed to DEC’s Wildlife Diversity Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4754. DEC REGIONAL NATURAL RESOURCE SUPERVISOR TOM MARTIN HONORED AS NYSAF “FORESTER OF THE YEAR” (3/2) The
New York Society of American Foresters (NYSAF) honored state Department
of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 5 Natural Resource
Supervisor Tom Martin as its 2014 Forester of the Year. The award
recognizes outstanding contributions to the practice and profession of
forestry, the conservation and stewardship of forest resources in New
York and the objectives of the Society of American Foresters.
In addition, NYSAF presented DEC Private Forest Stewardship Program Manager Sloane Crawford with its Distinguished Service award and DEC Region 6 Natural Resource Supervisor Fred Munk received the Chair’s Commendation award. “DEC is committed to preserving the health and vitality of New York’s forest lands and our talented staff has been instrumental in achieving this goal,” DEC Commissioner Joe Martens said. “I congratulate Tom Martin, Sloane Crawford and Fred Munk on receiving well-deserved recognition from NYSAF and thank them for their many years of service in managing state-owned forest lands. Their work protects and enhances New York’s natural resources, which helps ensure our forested lands offer exceptional opportunities for outdoor recreation and provide economic benefits to regional communities.” NYSAF Chair Mariann Johnston said, “NYSAF is proud to recognize these individuals for their services and contributions to the profession. The willingness of Mr. Martin, Mr. Crawford and Mr. Munk to serve their colleagues at the professional level is a hallmark of the collegiality and engagement that makes NYSAF a great organization. The words and actions of this year’s awardees have distinguished them as leaders in the forestry and natural resource profession in New York State, and we are particularly pleased to recognize and thank these three DEC employees for their efforts.” Tom Martin has been directly involved in significant Adirondack forestry initiatives and policy decisions for the past 16 years. He previously served as a Regional Forester for DEC Region 5, and was subsequently named Regional Natural Resource Supervisor, where he oversees forestry programs and the divisions of Fish and Wildlife, and Minerals. Martin helped to lead New York’s effort to acquire over a million acres of land within the Adirondack Park. He regularly meets with local officials to discuss conservation issues, which is critical to building local community support for specific forest objectives, while also incorporating regional needs into forest planning. He has developed key partnerships with Adirondack towns and counties, the Adirondack Mountain Club, regional rod and game clubs, Adirondack Trail Improvement Society and others to maintain roads, trails, parking areas and other public use infrastructure that provides access to the beautiful lands and waters in the region. Sloane Crawford received NYSAF’s Distinguished Service Award, which honors a NYSAF member for his/her outstanding professional service, dedication and long-standing contributions to the New York Society of American Foresters. Crawford manages DEC’s private forest owner assistance program and is an expert on the state’s forest resources and the importance of sustainable management of these resources. He has been a tireless advocate for science-based forestry in New York for decades, and his knowledge and guidance have served as the foundation for NYSAF’s advances in forest policy, including the recent series of NYSAF Position Statements and work with the Council of Forest Resource Organizations (CFRO). He regularly provides information and guidance to industry, organizations and local officials to ensure New York’s forests provide sustainable forest products, abundant wildlife, access to open space and outdoor recreation, and other valuable opportunities. Fred Munk was presented with NYSAF’s Chair Commendation, which recognizes a person or organization for special assistance, contributions or service to the Chair of the NY Society. Munk has served as treasurer for the NYSAF Annual Meeting the past four years, which enables the program committee to focus on meeting planning and logistics. His willingness to take this responsibility also allowed the committee to maintain a clear accounting of meeting expenditures separate from its operating expenses. He was specifically recognized for providing a consistent wealth of sound advice and guidance to the organization’s leadership over the years. The New York Society of American Foresters (NYSAF) was chartered in 1918, just 18 years after the founding of the forestry profession and our parent organization, the Society of American Foresters. There are currently over 300 members in NYSAF. The Society of American Foresters (SAF) is the national scientific and educational organization representing the forestry profession in the United States. Founded in 1900 by Gifford Pinchot, it is the largest professional society for foresters in the world. The mission of the Society of American Foresters is to advance the science, education, technology, and practice of forestry; to enhance the competency of its members; to establish professional excellence; and, to use the knowledge, skills, and conservation ethic of the profession to ensure the continued health and use of forest ecosystems and the present and future availability of forest resources to benefit society. 2014 MARKS THE SECOND BEST YEAR FOR SAFE HUNTING IN NEW YORK
(2/2)
The 2014 New York hunting season closed with the second lowest number
of hunting related-shooting incidents on record, State Department of
Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe Martens announced
today.“Hunting is a tradition in New York State that continues to be safely enjoyed by many,” said Commissioner Martens. “Governor Cuomo’s NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative recognizes all the benefits the sporting community brings to New York’s economy and commends hunters for continuing their safe hunting practices. I thank our hunters for following the safety guidelines and for making this past year a successful hunting season.” New York’s hunting incident rate (incidents per 100,000 hunters) has fallen by more than 75 percent since the 1960s. The past five-year average is down to 4.3 incidents per 100,000 hunters, compared to 19 per 100,000 in the 1960s. A total of 22 hunting incidents occurred in 2014, including one unfortunate fatality which occurred while hunting small game. Eight of this year’s accidents were self-inflicted, eleven involved members of the same hunting party and only three occurred where the victim and shooter did not know each other. This was the first year on record without an incident occurring during the spring turkey season. The lowest total number of hunting incidents in any year occurred just a year ago (19 incidents in 2013). All incidents are thoroughly investigated by trained Environmental Conservation Officers. The findings of these investigations are used to improve New York’s Hunter Education Course to ensure that the most common causes of incidents are addressed and emphasized during instruction. Only incidents involving firearms, bows, and crossbows are included. Incidents involving tree stand use or other hunter health-related mishaps are not. “These declining statistics prove that New York has a safety-conscious generation of hunters. This is due in part to the committed efforts of more than 2,500 volunteer Sportsman Education Instructors who are trained and certified by DEC,” added Commissioner Martens. Sportsman education is an essential background to have in the field and teaches future sportsmen and sportswomen how to be safe, responsible and ethical hunters and trappers. All courses are offered free of charge. While hunting is safer than ever, accidents happen, and it is important to remember that every hunting-related shooting incident is preventable. Many, if not all of these incidents could have been prevented, if only the shooter or victim had followed the primary rules of hunter safety to:
The NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative is an effort to improve recreational opportunities for sportsmen and women and to boost tourism activities throughout the state. This includes streamlining fishing and hunting licenses, reducing license fees, improving access for fishing and increasing hunting opportunities in New York State. In support of this initiative, $10 million in NY Works funding has been dedicated to fish hatchery repairs and 50 new land and water access projects such as boat launches, hunting blinds, trails and parking areas. Under the initiative, the 2015-16 Executive Budget proposes to establish a new capital account, the Habitat Conservation and Access Account. The bill would provide up to $1.5M annually from the State Fish and Game Trust Account and all proceeds from the sale of the Habitat Stamp to a new Habitat Conservation and Access Account to ensure that DEC has funds available for management, protection and restoration of fish and wildlife habitat, and for the improvement and development of public access for fish and wildlife related recreation. For more information, including the 2014 Hunting Safety Statistics, visit the Sportsman Education Program page on DEC’s website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7860.html.  DEC REGION 5 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION POLICE 2014 HUNTING SEASON REPORT (1/12) New York State Department
of Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) ticketed numerous
poachers for violating hunting and firearm laws and regulation during
the big game hunting season. “Enforcing hunting and trapping
laws helps to ensure suitable populations of deer, bear and other
wildlife in the region and throughout the state,” said Regional
Environmental Conservation Police Captain Daniel Darrah. “It also
ensures that the large majority of law abiding hunters are provided are
fair opportunity to pursue game that these poachers are taking. DEC and
the Environmental Conservation Police appreciate the thousands of
hunters who consistently adhere to hunting regulations and guidelines,
and who pass on the traditions of safety, responsibility and
conservation to the next generation.” ECOs charged 152 individuals with a total of 270 total charges. The charges included 91 misdemeanors and 179 violations. The breakdown of the charges include:
DEC REMINDS ANGLERS TO PUT SAFETY FIRST
WHEN ENJOYING ICE FISHING
(1/12) The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
(DEC) today reminded ice anglers to enjoy the ice responsibly. Three to
four inches of solid ice is usually safe for anglers accessing ice on
foot. Ice thickness can vary on every body of water or even
within the same body of water. Anglers should be particularly
wary of areas of moving water and around boat docks and houses where
bubblers may be installed to reduce ice buildup. The presence of
snowmobile tracks or footprints on the ice should not be taken as
evidence of safe ice conditions. Individuals are strongly encouraged to check ice conditions and avoid situations that appear to present even a remote risk. Testing the thickness of ice can easily be done with an auger or ice spud at various spots. “Ice fishing is a very popular sport in New York State and interest in the sport is increasing,” said DEC Commissioner Joe Martens. “Unlike other fishing techniques that may require a boat or special equipment, ice fishing is relatively simple and inexpensive. All one needs is a warm pair of boots, a good ice auger, some tip-ups or a jigging rod and the willingness to walk a bit to have success.” Based on DEC’s last statewide angler survey, more than 800,000 days are spent ice fishing New York’s waters annually. For more information ice fishing visit DEC’s website: http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7733.html. The use of fish for bait is very popular when ice fishing and bait fish may be used in most but not all waters that are open to ice fishing. Visit the DEC website for a list of special regulation by county to find out where bait fish can and cannot be used, and for other regulations that apply to baitfish at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/71546.html. Anglers are reminded to take these important steps when using baitfish while ice fishing:
NYSOWA Opens Nominations for New York M. Paul Keesler Outdoor Citizen Award (2/2)
The NYSOWA M. Paul Keesler New York Outdoor Citizen Award will be
presented to an individual or organization that effectively has raised
the public’s awareness of outdoor recreational opportunities and
conservation issues in New York State. The award recipient will
be officially announced at the annual conference of the New York State
Outdoor Writers Association (NYSOWA) this spring.The award was created to honor worthy individuals and organizations, at the same time perpetuating the name of one of NYSOWA’s dearest members. The late M. Paul Keesler spent nearly five decades promoting and conserving the outdoor wonders and recreational opportunities within New York State. Beginning with outdoor columns for the Utica Observer Dispatch and progressing to the founding of The Mid-York Sportsman, which grew into the New York Sportsman, Keesler, and his magazine’s contributors, enlightened and educated readers statewide and beyond to the wild treasures of the Empire State. In addition to his newspaper and magazine accomplishments, Keesler wrote books on canoe fishing New York waterways and on his beloved West Canada Creek and Mohawk Valley, the latter perhaps the most comprehensive book ever written on the area. Previous recipients of the award were William (Bill) Lloyd of Newport, N.Y. (2007), Dennis Money of Canandaigua (2008), Bill Hilts, Sr. of Lockport (2009), William Schwerd of Saratoga (2010), Nina Schoch of Saranac Lake (2011), Ed Feldmann (posthumous) 2012, Stan Pascoo (2013), and Leo Maloney (2014). Anyone may submit a nomination of 350 words or less and have it endorsed by an active member of NYSOWA. To review award criterion and the nominating process, visit http://www.nysowa.org. To learn of a NYSOWA member in a nominator’s area who might endorse such a nomination, contact, Will Elliott (585) 502-5207, or check the web site. Nominations must be received by April 1, 2015. Send Nominations to Will Elliott, 777 Bernd Rd., Pavilion, NY 14525 or e-mail at mailto:odrswill@gmail.com DEC ADVISES BACKCOUNTRY VISITORS OF WINTER CONDITIONS THROUGHOUT MOST OF THE ADIRONDACKS (12/11) The recent snowstorm provided great conditions for winter outdoor recreation in the Adirondack backcountry the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reports today. Backcountry visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for snow, ice and cold to ensure a safe and enjoyable winter experience. “Now that snows have arrived in the Adirondacks, winter recreationist can take advantage of all that the Park has to offer during the upcoming holiday vacation period,” said DEC Commissioner Joe Martens. “However, recreationist must be aware that winter can also present troublesome – even perilous – conditions to the unprepared. Visitors exploring the backcountry should dress for cold weather and use snowshoes and skis to navigate trails.” Snow depths range from 6 to 20
inches or more. The deepest snows are in the eastern Adirondacks with
the thinner depths in the western portion. Snow depths are deeper in
the higher elevations like the High Peaks and other mountains over
3,000 feet. Seasonal access roads are closed. Motor vehicles should not
be driving on seasonal access roads that serve as snowmobile trails in
the winter such as the Moose River Plains Road. Most gates and
designated snowmobile trails are or will be open by the weekend.
Snowmobilers should check on local trail conditions before heading out.
Skiers and snowshoers using designated snowmobile trails should keep to
the side to allow safe passage of snowmobiles. Snowmobiles should slow
down when passing skiers and snowshoers.
Visitors to the Eastern High Peaks are required to use snowshoes or cross-country skis for their safety and the safety of other backcountry users. It is strongly recommended that visitors to other parts of the Adirondacks do the same. Snowshoes or skis ease travel on snow and prevent “post holing”, which can ruin trails and cause sudden falls resulting in injuries. Ice crampons should be carried for use on icy mountaintops and other exposed areas. In addition, backcountry visitors should follow these safety guidelines:
Traveling through snow takes
more energy and time than hiking the same distance, especially in
freshly fallen snow. Plan trips accordingly. Ice has only
recently formed on most waters especially on large waterbodies.
Alternating periods of freezing and thawing have occurred over the past
month weakening any ice that is present. Always check ice thickness
before traveling across it. Avoid ice over running water, near inlets
& outlet and near boathouses & docks - especially those with
"bubblers" or other ice prevention devices. Ice that holds snow will
not hold the weight of a snowmobile at this time and may not hold the
weight of a person. Skiers and snowshoers are reminded that the
Avalanche Pass Slide in the Eastern High Peaks is closed to public
recreation of any type during the winter.
Call the DEC Forest Ranger
Emergency Dispatch at 518-891-0235 to report lost or injured people or
other backcountry emergencies. The DEC Adirondack Trail Information web page (http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7865.html)
provides current trail condition information and links to current
weather, snow cover and other important information to help ensure a
safe and enjoyable Adirondack backcountry winter experience. <>
DEC SEEKING LANDOWNERS TO ASSIST WITH WILD TURKEY RESEARCH “Wild turkey populations have changed dramatically in New York over the past decade,” Commissioner Martens said. “This project will provide valuable information on turkey survival rates and harvest to help guide management of this important game species. I encourage landowners that have wild turkey on their property this winter to consider participating in this study.” Over the past 10 years wild turkey populations have declined in many parts of New York State. To better understand the factors influencing population changes and how these changes affect turkey management, DEC is beginning the third year of a four-year study. This project will provide wildlife managers with current estimates of harvest and survival rates for female wild turkeys, or hens, in New York and guide management efforts. Beginning in January, DEC will embark on a statewide effort to capture wild turkey hens and fit them with leg bands to obtain accurate data on survival and harvest. A small number of these birds will also be tagged with satellite radio-transmitters. All of the work will be done by DEC personnel on both public and private lands from January through March. The research will be concentrated in DEC Regions 3 through 9, across the state from the Hudson Valley to North Country and Western New York. DEC is looking for landowners in DEC Regions 3 through 9 interested in allowing birds to be trapped on their land, as well as alerting project coordinators when they see turkeys on their property on a regular basis. Once turkeys are trapped and banded, they will immediately be released at the same location. Not all locations are suitable for deploying capture equipment, so landowners should contact their regional project coordinator to discuss the suitability of their property. Observations of turkey flocks during January through March can be reported to the project coordinator for that region or can be reported using the Winter Flock Survey form found on DEC’s website at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/48756.html. Governor Cuomo’s NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative is an effort to improve recreational activities for in-state and out-of-state sportsmen and sportswomen and to boost tourism opportunities throughout the state. This initiative includes the streamlining of hunting and fishing licensing and reducing license fees, improved access for fishing at various sites across the state, and increasing hunting opportunities in various regions. For more information on this project, contact DEC by e-mail at mailto:wildlife@dec.ny.gov. “Turkey Study” should be listed as the subject line in any e-mails. FISHING NEWS 2014 banner year for Lake Champlain salmon restoration
(2/2) ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. – Officials
from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, U.S. Fish &
Wildlife Service and the New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation today announced that 2014 assessment results show
continued gains in the Lake Champlain landlocked Atlantic salmon
fishery restoration program.
“It’s extremely encouraging to see the collaborative efforts of New York, Vermont and federal agency staff fostering the long-term sustainability of the Lake Champlain fishery,” said Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Joe Martens. “Our staffs have made great strides in controlling sea lamprey, benefiting anglers and surrounding communities. However, we must remain vigilant in combatting the invasive sea lamprey so the fishery can continue to rebound and flourish.” The three groups, which work collaboratively on restoration efforts and make up the Lake Champlain Fish and Wildlife Management Cooperative, reported a number of highlights from recent evaluation activities that indicate further improvement to the lake’s salmon population. “We’ve seen several indicators from our 2014 assessments that make it very clear that sea lamprey control and our other salmon restoration initiatives, are continuing to be effective in strengthening the salmon population in Lake Champlain,” said Brian Chipman, fisheries biologist with Vermont Fish & Wildlife. “This is a great sign for the salmon, for the health of Lake Champlain’s fisheries and for anglers.” One primary indicator is the strength of annual spawning runs – which produced several record or near-record numbers in 2014. Some of the key data points include:
Lamprey wounds on salmon declined from 19 wounds per 100 fish in 2013 to 15 wounds per 100 fish in 2014, meeting the Lake Champlain Fish and Wildlife Management Cooperative’s target wounding level for salmon. Lamprey wounds on lake trout also declined to 30 wounds per 100 fish in 2014, from 54 in 2013. In stark contrast to the 2014 results, sea lamprey abundance was near its peak in 2003, as indicated by a rate of 93 wounds per 100 salmon. That year, salmon returns were very low, with only 84 collected from Hatchery Brook, 21 from the Lamoille River, and 14 from the Winooski River. “The reduction in lamprey wounding rates indicate an overall decrease in sea lamprey abundance in Lake Champlain, and highlights the continued success and improvements in the sea lamprey control program,” said Bradley Young, sea lamprey control program supervisor with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. “Through technological advances in survey and treatment methods and the inclusion of newly identified lamprey population infestations, the control program has gained more ground and become more comprehensive in its approach.” As a result, lamprey are having less of an impact in Lake Champlain which is beneficial to a range of fish species including northern pike, walleye and lake sturgeon, in addition to trout and salmon. Ultimately, these forward steps are expected to translate into better fishing on Lake Champlain in the coming years. DEC SHARES DRAFT PLAN TO MODIFY IMPERIAL DAM
(1/12) A draft plan to modify
the Imperial Dam on the Saranac River is available for public review,
state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Regional Director
Bob Stegemann announced. The plan protects human health, private
property and public infrastructure while improving natural habitat for
aquatic and wetlands species. “DEC is seeking to inform the
public and gather input on the preliminary plan addressing the Imperial
Dam’s safety issues,” said Director Stegemann. “DEC’s plan will protect
people that live, work and travel downstream of the dam. The proposal
will also provide access to nine miles of upstream habitat for salmon
and trout, while continuing to serve as a barrier to breeding sea
lamprey.”
A public availability session on the preliminary plan will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, January 21 at the Town of Plattsburgh Town Hall at 151 Banker Road. Staff from DEC and its consulting firm will present information on the preliminary plan for the dam and the process for moving the project forward. DEC will also answer questions and accept comments from the public. The meeting facility is wheelchair accessible. Please provide any requests for specific accommodation in advance to DEC at 518-897-1248. “I am exceptionally pleased at this long-awaited news,” said Derrick Miller, President of the Lake Champlain Chapter of Trout Unlimited. “Our members and many people throughout the North Country are delighted that the historic Atlantic salmon spawning habitat in the Saranac River will be restored. This is great news for conservationists and anglers alike.” The preliminary design for the dam modification includes decreasing the height of the spillway by 8.5 feet and constructing a concrete fish ladder on the left bank (northern side) of the dam. Work will require permits and other approvals, including an Army Corps of Engineers Permit, a DEC wetlands permit and a DEC water quality certification. The proposed project will increase the dam’s spillway capacity and bring it into compliance with dam safety regulations. The lowered spillway will achieve the required spillway capacity of 45,650 cubic feet per second. The fish ladder will allow landlocked salmon and trout access to nine miles of the Saranac River upstream of the dam providing a significant increase in spawning habitat for these species and enhance efforts to restore the Lake Champlain fishery. The fish ladder is designed to prevent lamprey from moving upstream. The plan involves dredging 91,600 cubic yards of material behind the dam to prevent those sediments from being washed downstream and into Lake Champlain. Dredging will create a 200-foot wide channel following the existing river channel approximately 3,800 feet upstream from the face of the dam.
Comments may be mailed to DEC Regional Fishery Manager Lance Durfey, P.O. Box 296, Ray Brook, NY 12977; or e-mailed to mailto:Reg5fish@dec.ny.gov. Comments should be submitted by COB Friday, February 6, 2015.
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2014 Weekly Reports (12/11) Snow & Smokepoles: If
there's one thing that's been inconsistent this deer season it has been
the weather, and that continues to be the case. There isn't a big woods
deer hunter out there who doesn't get ancy to go hunting when fresh
snow hits the ground but some times it can be too much of a good thing.
Just as some of us saw on Thanksgiving, we've got a good blanket of
fresh snow on the ground for the weekend hunt. Depending on the depth,
that can make walking in the woods a real chore, but the road map that
deer leave behind can lead to the day's venison, or that of days or
seasons ahead.
Here in the southeastern ADKs we've had a pretty good acorn crop and after last Saturday's storm we had snow in higher elevations. Deer were feeding heavily, pawing the ground where acorns lie underneath. In one spot I saw the imprint of a buck's antlers in one of these pawing. If only I could find the buck that made it. Perhaps this weekend as we with muzzleloaders, bows and crossbows have a few more days to hunt and we'll make the best of it. It may not be easy in the snow, but sometimes you just get lucky. It won't happen, however, if you're not out there. Hopefully, wet weather that is predicted for Saturday will hold off. Otherwise, we'll have to literally keep our powder dry. Good luck. 12/3) Last Shot: Six weeks and seven weekends sure passes quickly. Such is the Northern Zone big game season that is about to close this weekend (Sunset on Sunday). Many of us are still looking to fill our tags, and I am among them. Deer have not come easy this year but in just the past week encounters have increased, lending hope to the weekend that lies ahead. I may not be a pretty one, at least for Saturday, as the forecast calls for rain in much of the southern Adirondacks. We'll see how it plays out and perhaps it will be more snow-like instead. We've also got another full moon approaching on Saturday which could jump-start some rutting activity. Common sense tells us to hunt food sources, and given the acorn crop in parts of the region, that could be just about anyplace. Still, many of us have experienced seeing bucks still with does during the later part of the season. Here's hoping that if we find the deer, we find the bucks before time runs out. The late muzzleloading season (as well as for crossbow and archery) gives many of us another chance from Dec. 8-14. Not all WMU's are open, so be sure to check the regulations guide. Good luck this weekend. (11/25) Happy Thanksgiving: With the holiday bearing down upon us, and a snowstorm for the southern and perhaps, eastern Adirondacks, what better time to be hunting than right now? The late season is the great season when all the conditions are right, at least that's this hunter's opinion. We're in the middle of a busy hunting vacation and just wanted to take the time to let you know what we're seeing in the woods. Rubs and scrapes have dwindled off and trail camera activity has also decreased. The bucks hunters are seeing, and shooting, are still hanging around does and it appears plenty of breeding is still going on. Our own group's observations reflect that. For many hunters it is tough going and we are not seeing a lot of deer, I can relate to that too. Still, quite a few bucks, and some nice ones at that, are being taken. We'll catch up on some photos after the holiday weekend. As of this post there are 12 days left in the season. Be sure to make the best of it. Have a Happy Thanksgiving! (11/19) The Meat of the Rut - Part II: Once again, mid-November is proving to be productive for Adirondack deer hunters. Take a look at the photos below and you'll see evidence of that. Nearly every hunter we've heard from that has seen a buck as reported them to be following does. This is the time to be in the woods. If bucks are breeding does there will be other bucks nearby and when that doe is bred the bucks will be on the move looking for another doe. No matter your hunting technique, if you know where some does reside then be sure to "check in" on them and see if they have any company. Meanwhile, we're doing some hunting ourselves and will post updates when we can. Good luck! (11/12) The Meat of the Rut: The heart of the Northern Zone deer season is upon us and if there is a time to hunt, it is now. Yes, the Nov. 6 Full Moon and all that surrounds it has produced some fine bucks, but the action is far from over. This hunter has always felt that the middle and later parts of November are the very best part of the gun season. Sometimes it gets real cold, other times we gett more much snow than we bargained for, but there are still plenty of bucks out there to chase for those of us willing to go after them. Right now, it should be all about the ladies as bucks will be pursuiing does as they come intot their estrous cycles. If you've got some known doe hangouts be sure to spend some time there no matter what hunting technique you'll use. Between now and the end of the month we'll be hitting the woods hard ourselves and will be in the woods and/or at deer camp. Southern Zone opens Nov. 15 which should take a little pressure off the Adirondacks. And, the colder weather should get deer moving. Here's wishing everyone a safe and successfull rut hunt. Go get em'! (11/5) Hunter's Moon: If you've been in the woods recently you'll see (hopefully) that they are literally opening up visibly and with good buck sign. Bucks are making rubs consistently now and in many areas scrapes are becoming more common. Photos of successful hunters are rolling in as are reports of bucks being spotted on the move. Although we'd like to see things just a little cooler, a pretty good weather weekend is anticipated and some areas may even see some snow! Thursday's (Nov. 6) full moon is bright in the sky also and is what many hunters center their activities around. Many of us have most of our hunting time in the days ahead. Good luck, and keep us in the loop. (10/29) Week 2: This coming weekend is shaping up to be a good one, as it should be when the calendar says it's November. It looks like the warmer weather is finaly going to break and that is good news for deer hunters. Any drop in temperature should get deer moving and it looks like that is going to happen throuought the weekend, espcially by Sunday. Recent rain and wind has brought down some leaves but there is still quite a bit of underbrush, especially on the fringes of the Adirondack region and to the south. One good sign many hunters, including our group, found during the opening weekend was active scrapes. Along with some rubs showing up it appears the bucks are gearing up. Moon theorists say things are going to happen early around the Thursday, Nov. 6 Full Moon and after. We shall see. Some folks have had some luck already (see photos below). Congrats to those who got off to a good start and good luck in tehe days ahead. (10/22) Here we go: Another Adirondack muzzleloading weekend has come and gone, with some rain to follow. While this wet weather has altered many of our hunting plans this week, the rain is much needed. Although, it may change some plans for those who have been strategizing their hunts around water sources. We had an interesting few days of hunting, letting a young buck pass and missing an opportunity on a much bigger one. Mainly, we tried to cover some ground and do some in-season scouting which revealed a solid, but not over-estimated acorn crop here in the southeastern ADKs. Some oaks are raining acorns while others are barren of them. Buck sign in the form of rubs is starting to show up and many hunters are reporting finding numerous rubs, especially farther north in the region. It will be interesting to see what this mid-week storm does for visibility as there is still a lot of green on the underbrush, especially where there is beech. Our 44-day Big Game season opens Saturday, Oct. 25. Good luck and please hunt safely. (10/15) Change in Seasons: First off, let me say that I love archery hunting, and archery shooting. Since Sept. 27 I've spent plenty of time in the woods either on stand with my compound bow, or going for a walk/stalk with my recurve. This crossbow thing is brand new to me. For the past decade I have followed closely the crossbow debate with really no opinion one way or the other. It's hard to take a stand on something that you know little about.  As time went on, I found myself favoring crossbow use. The more I talked with people who simply could not shoot a bow - and I know there is adaptive archery equipment - the more I realized they deserve an opportunity to hunt outside of gun season just like anyone else. Also, as someone who follows the hunting inudustry closely I saw the crossbow gaining in popularity across the country. It was only a matter of time before it became a reality in New York. And now, it has. I also knew that as an outdoor communicator I would need to learn about the crossbow if I'm going to write about it and interact with readers who use, or choose note to use it. And so I've acquired one. Before shooting it I watched the assembly and safety videos and have since learned as much as I can up to this point. I don't know if I'm going to be a long-term crossbow hunter or not, but I'm going to find out; just like thousands of other New York hunters. The Crossbow Season is here, it opened today and I spent the wayning part of the day in a ground blind where there were more bugs than bucks. It was 78-degrees today, too warm for Adironack hunting. But, there's only one "opening day" and I wanted to check it out. I hope to get out again before the end of the week. The funny thing is, my effective range, in my mind, is 30-yards. About the same with my compound. I'll be elaborating on this a bit more in two upcomming newspaper columns: the Thursday, Oct. 9 issue of The Chronicle, and the Sunday, Oct. 19 issue of the Press-Republican. With Muzzlelaoding Season opening Saturday, Oct. 18, many of us won't be using our crossbows too much. Although I'm not much of a Southern Zone hunter, I may venture over that way in November when there is a two-week season there and get a little more time in with this new impliment. That said, hunters throughout the Adirondacks are primed for the muzzleloading season. Visibility is minimal in places and where there are oaks, there seem to be plenty of acorns. Deer are spread out and there is some early buck sign showing up. It's a tough call as to whether to hunt the food, the buck sign, or hopefully, both! Good luck with both the crossbow and the smokepole in the coming days. (10/8) Columbus Day: Right now, hunting in the Adirondacks is all about small game - including turkeys - and bowhunting. Things are about to change as the long-anticipated Northern Zone Crossbow season opens Wednesday, Oct. 15. While that is exciting and will surely put more hunters in the woods (some of us consider that a good thing) we've also got New York's third annual youth deer hunt this weekend, Oct. 11-13. We at ADKhunter wish all the young hunters and their mentors out there a safe and successful hunt. The weather is looking a bit warm with temps in the 60s in some areas, which is a little warm for hunting comfortable for stand hunters. In the woods things appear to be all about food. In the foothills and permitter of the ADKs where oaks are present there are plenty of acorns. With so many food options deer seem to be scattered and hard to pattern. They're showing up on trail cameras at different times and may be under one oak tree one day, another the next. At least they're getting in good shape for a potentially long winter. The best thing about hunting in the Adirondacks around Columbus Day is the scenery, which is spectacular nearly anywhere you go. Enjoy your long weekend, if you have it, and let us know how the hunting goes. (9/24) The End of an Era: The Northern Zone early archery season opens this Saturday, Sept. 27 and has be en traditionally a four-day hunt using a leftover tag from the previous license year, should you have one. That's all coming to end after this year's hunt. The sporting license year in New York is now Sept. 1 - Aug. 31, rather than Oct. 1 - Sept. 30. With this year being an overlap between the the two license years, we can still use our tags from the 2013-14 if we have them, but next year you'll have to use your 2015-16 tags for both early bear and early archery (deer) as they'll become valid on Sept. 1, 2015. Tha  t said, I'm still
not sure which licensee, not tag, I'm supposed to carry with me in the
woods this weekend so I'll carry both. But, I've still got my yellow
tags from last year to tie to a deer if I'm fortunate enough to kill
one. As for the weekend, and the four-day hunt, things are looking pretty warm. Parts of the Adirondacks, especially to the south, could see temps in the '80s this weekend with it not being much cooler elsewhere. To this hunter, warm weather is the absolute worst hunting conditions there are. I just like traditional fall weather. But, the calendar says it's "deer season" and I'm ready to go hunting. The mornings should be cool and enjoyable over the next few days but some us may be swatting mosquitos are cranking up our ThermaCell units for our afternoon outings. Scouting reports from hunters are indicating some buck rubs (left) showing up already and while apples are in short supply there is an acorn crop out there this year where oaks are prevalent. What I'm finding in my haunts is that some, but not all of the oaks, have acorns. Many are still premature. The early bear season remains quiet but we do have some reports of success from the western Adirondacks, Lewis County, and over towards the Tug Hill area. We've also heard that two females were killed on the highways in that region. Whether you're after deer, bear, waterfowl or other small game this weekend; have a good time, be safe and let us know if you have some luck and what you're seeing for deer sign in the woods. Big Deer TV: Earlier this summer, in July, a group of Adirondack hunters were featured on Big Deer TV, on the Sportsman Channel.
Many of us missed the episode but are sure it will re-air in the
future. We'll keep an eye out for it and let you know when it comes
around again. Meanwhile, here's a story about the show from the Leader-Herald newspaper in Gloversville.
9/17 Cold Start: Bear
season has been open for less than a week and so far we haven't heard
of any luck yet. In fact, the only guys who are having success is DEC
nailing bear-baiters. If you have been in the woods chasing bears,
please let us know how you are doing and also what you are seeing for
deer sign, mast cropts, etc. Grouse season opens this weekend
(Sept. 20) in the Northern Zone. Nothing better than a little "wild
chicken" in the frying pan. We're also looking at a cold snap that
could put an end to the growing season and perhaps kick-start the
foliage season into high gear.
COMING SOON
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