25TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL EDITION

25 T H A N N I VE R S A RY S P E C I A L E D I T I O N Annual ATV Preview: From Arctic Cat to Yamaha! W ods& Waters W &ds Waters 4097'%0)2(%63*)...
Author: Ruth Austin
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25 T H A N N I VE R S A RY S P E C I A L E D I T I O N Annual ATV Preview: From Arctic Cat to Yamaha!

W ods& Waters

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October 2005

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u Waterfowl Hunt // December 6 Whistling Wings, VA v Goose Hunt // December 27 Magnum Fields, MD w Upland Bird Hunt // January 4 Summerleas Farm, VA Want to go? See pg. 37 for details!

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Waterfowling

Q&A

Wood Ducks Early Season Opens Oct 6

WITH

KAINE & KILGORE

BONUS BIG GAME

FRESHWATER

Going After Hogasaurus!

Winter Tactics For Big Fish

Who Is The Sportsman’s Candidate?

DESTINATION FILE:

DEER HUNTING

Winter Haven Bird Hunt

Gear Check

Blue Marble Oil?

Set Yourself Apart When The Woods Get Busy

SMALL GAME

Caring For Your Trophy

with Don Jones & Chuck Dent CALENDAR MD OUTDOORS TOURNAMENT RESULTS OUTDOOR DIRECTORY JAMES, POTOMAC & BAY TIDES

SHOOTING

The Guns Of Deer Season

Put Some Rabbits In The Pot!

Deer Hunting

Day on the Water with PLUS

W2 Adventure Hunts

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or Worl do

SALTWATER

Battle The Elements For Winter Tautog

Outdoor Shows u Maryland Bass Expo January 8-11, Timonium v Fishing Expo January 16-18, Richmond w Nation’s Sportsmen’s Show January 23-25, Chantilly x Fredericksburg Outdoor Expo Feb. 20-22, Fredericksburg y Western Virginia Sport Show Feb. 27 - March 1, Fishersville

Destination File

W2’s African

Adventure Part III

TOURNAMENTS

Lake Anna Cup Results

www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com *SVQETWZMHISW FSSOWKSXS[[[[SSHWERH[EXIVWQEKE^MRIGSQ

PLUS: CALENDAR OF EVENTS /// TIDE CHARTS /// TOURNAMENT RESULTS /// WHAT’S NEW?

SPECIAL

ISSUE

Out

Of

Of

September 2005

or Worl do

THE REGION’S TOP OUTDOOR MAGAZINE SINCE 1987 /// OCTOBER 2007

DEER SEASON!

Fishing Maryland Reservoirs with Jerry Sauter...

Getting Off The Stand...

Special Report:

Hound Hunting In Virginia Under Scrutiny?

Go Now For

Big Fall Crappie!

Of

MAGAZINE

Day Water Kurt Dove

Bow Hunting

Introduction To Crossbows Gear Check

Shooting

W2 Tests The FnR Prop

A Practical Guide To Area Hunting Preserves

Maryland & Virginia Hotspots

Rocky Gorge Revealed!

Fishing

Bow Season Warm Up Time

Serious Saltwater...

Hot Weather Trips OUTDOOR CALENDAR MARYLAND OUTDOORS TOURNAMENT RESULTS BOARD OUTDOOR SERVICES DIRECTORY JAMES, POTOMAC & BAY TIDES

OFFSHORE ADVENTURE!

for Dolphin, Tuna & Wahoo

W2’s Annual

Duck Season

How To Succeed As A Beginner W2 Goes On Tour...

FLW Style

ATV Preview

Tips For Getting Past

The Fall Turnover

www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

Products & Dealers!

Virginian Makes BASS Masters Classic

Bird Hunting

Dove Shoot Essentials

PLUS

Out

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W o d s& Wate rs

1987-2007

Join Us In Celebrating 20 Years Of Adventure...

See pg. 8 for special events!

on the with

PLUS

What’s The VDGIF Doing About The Shenandoah?

Woods & Waters magazine

or Worl do

Dedicated To The Regional Angler & Hunter

A

W ods & Waters

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W ods& Waters

July 2004

or Worl do

Out

S A LT WAT E R

OUTDOOR CALENDAR MARYLAND OUTDOORS TOURNAMENT RESULTS BOARD OUTDOOR SERVICES DIRECTORY JAMES, POTOMAC & BAY TIDES

Destination File

W2’s African

Adventure Part II

www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

For maps, videos & books go to www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

JuLY 2012

JuLY1987 W2 ADVENTURES ACTIVITIES: SEPT. 23 BOAR HUNT & OCTOBER 14 PHEASANT SHOOT

Change Your Tactics With The Season

Out

Getting Ready For Hunting Seasons

W2s’

GREAT

FROG TEST

GOOSE SEPT. 1 DOVE SEPT. 2 SQUIRREL SEPT. 2

Who Won?

W ods & Waters or Worl do

Maryland’s Top

tPattern Your Shotgun

Counties

tRig A Kayak For Fishing & Hunting

Dove Season

Where To Find

Early Goose Hunting Spots

W2’s Top

5

Wilderness Trips

DEER SEASON!

Female Hunters & Their Gear...

W2’s Goes Rail Hunting

Trophy Rockfish

How A Jonny House Should Work

Back Bay

tMake Your Dog Listen

SALTWATER // Cobia On The Chesapeake DESTINATION FILE 79 // Canaan Valley Getaway FRESHWATER FISHING // Tidal Potomac Tournament Debate SHOOTING // Is There A Perfect Turkey & Deer Gun? HUNTING // Get Into Low Impact Hunting

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95-Pound RECORD CATFISH CERTIFIED!

Exclusive I.C.A.S.T New Tackle Report!

Do You Smell?

#1 Chincoteague, Va. Magnum Fields Waterfowling

Taking Scent Control To The Next Level

It’s Back!

SALTWATER // Cobia On The Chesapeake, Part II BASS FISHING // Top Fall Bass Tactics For Area Waters W2 SPECIAL INTERVIEW // Virginia’s Candidates For Governor SHOOTING // The Challenge Of The Single Shot Rifle CONSERVATION // Virginia Bass Anglers Give Back

4097'0%77-*-)(7398(3367)6:-')7(-6)'836=398(3364634)68-)7

Captain’s Tips

Doug Deats DESTINATION FILE 80

1987-2007

THE REGION’S TOP OUTDOOR MAGAZINE SINCE 1987 /// NOVEMBER 2007

Double Destination File Issue!

Gun Dogs With

tLead Birds

Woods & Waters magazine

Join Us In Celebrating 20 Years Of Adventure...

How To:

Doug Deats

Of

Gun Dogs With

Of

Your Best Source For Outdoor Information Since 1987

Deer Hunting

W2’s Guide To ATVs & UTVs

Our 19th Year!

Magazine

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What is

d

u Lake Anna Cup, Nov. 8, High Point Marina, Virginia

Marsh Hen Madness?

PLUS: CALENDAR OF EVENTS /// TIDE CHARTS /// TOURNAMENT RESULTS /// WHAT’S NEW?

September 2006

Outdoor Events

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W2’s Guide To Hunting Preserves & Outfitters

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SPECIAL REPORT: Potomac River

Charles Co., Md. Lake Anna Cup 2007

New Off Limit Areas, Grassbeds, the Wilson Bridge & The Return of Nanjemoy? CALENDAR OF EVENTS • TIDE CHARTS • TOURNAMENT RESULTS & MORE For maps, videos & books go to www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

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Outdoor Shows 2008

Fishing Expo & Boat Show - January 10-13 Chesapeake Fishing & Outdoor Expo - Jan. 19-20 Richmond Fishing Expo - Jan. 25-27 Fredericksburg Outdoor Expo - Feb. 8-10 Western Virginia Show - Feb. 15-17

Hunting Run Is Hot!

We Fish The Region’s Newest Fishery

Big Fall Crappie! Virginia Hotspots

For maps, videos & books go to www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

W2 Ranks The Region’s Top Rivers Our Guide To Greatness Returns

HUNTING: Top Youth Gun Picks

2008’s RECORD SETTING MONTH:

Maryland’s Forgotten Eastern Shore Rivers

Coyote Hunting 101

Pursuing The Region’s Smartest Game Animal

DESTINATION NEW RIVER

An Early Spring Adventure With Tangent Outfitters

Where To Go First

Virginia

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THE REGION’S TOP OUTDOOR MAGAZINE SINCE 1987 /// APRIL 2007

Spring Fishing Special

W2’s Top Spring Lake Destinations

Where To Go For The Best Fishing

SPECIAL REPORT

Jeff Little’s Trophy Smallmouth Tactics: Slow Rollin’ Spinnerbaits

or Worl do

New Marks For Rockfish And Largemouth

Spring Gobbler Warm-Up The Shad Are Coming...

W ods & Waters

PLUS: CALENDAR OF EVENTS /// TIDE CHARTS /// TOURNAMENT RESULTS /// WHAT’S NEW?

Out

1987-2007

THE REGION’S TOP SOURCE FOR FISHING & HUNTING ADVENTURE

THE REGION’S TOP OUTDOOR MAGAZINE SINCE 1987 /// MAY 2007

River Fishing Special

Riverkeeper Jeff Kelble Speaks His Mind

Woods & Waters magazine

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May , WV Franklin



Shenandoah River Update

W &ds Waters

P L U S : CA L E N DA R O F E VE N T S / / / T I D E C H A R T S / / / TO U R N A ME N T S / / / W H AT ’ S N E W

MARCH 2008

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PLUS: CALENDAR OF EVENTS /// TIDE CHARTS /// TOURNAMENT RESULTS /// WHAT’S NEW?

Reader Views On Hound Hunting

W2 Takes Safe Boating Course

Super Shad & Herring Tactics

Fishing:

Stories Of Man’s Best Friend

Where To Go & What To Use

Spring Gobbler Hunting 101

You Will Too, Soon!

W2’s Guide To The Region’s Trout Fishing

Spring Crappie Secrets

TOW VEHICLE PREVIEWS Capt. Karl’s Top Picks For 2007 Lures & Gear

Hog Bust Update

Post Trial Recap And The Future Of Pig Hunting In The Region

For maps, videos & books go to www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

W &ds Waters

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PANFISHING

W2’s Top Lake Fishing

Early Season Crappie

10

Destinations

Tips For Anna, Gaston, Buggs & Potomac

Virginia & Maryland

Part II

BASS FISHING

Try These Secret Lures & Techniques!

DESTINATION FILE 72

BUGGS ISLAND & LAKE GASTON

SALTWATER

SPRING FLOUNDER BIRD HUNTING

Recall Pens For Quail HUNTING

Spring Gobbler

Hunting Forecast, Top Counties & Tactics, Part II 4097'0%77-*-)(7398(3367)6:-')7(-6)'836=398(3364634)68-)7

For maps, videos & books go to www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

For maps, videos & books go to www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

*SVQETWZMHISW FSSOWKSXS[[[[SSHWERH[EXIVWQEKE^MRIGSQ

For maps, videos & books go to www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

1

The Silverado Truck is made for ______ a)

Haulin’ b) Towin’ c) Workin’ d) Playin’

all of the Abovin’

e)

A 2012 Best Buy!

“Visit the dealership and ask about the 25th Anniversary Woods & Waters Off-Road Edition Silverado Package!” - Steve Myers

As the area’s #1 used vehicle dealer, as well as North Virginia’s #1 Chevy dealer, we take pride in providing a level of service you can’t find just anywhere. At Country Chevrolet, your Warrenton and Culpeper Chevrolet dealer, we make every customer feel welcomed. For the best selection of Chevys from Maine to Florida, look no further than Country Chevrolet in Warrenton!

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SALES (540) 905-4083 SALES (540) 905-4083 SERVICE (540) 905-4501 SERVICE (540) 905-4501 1111 East Lee Hwy, East Lee Hwy, Warrenton, VAVA 20186. Warrenton, 20186.

S 2012 Shenandoah River Rodeo

Shenandoah River Keeper Jeff Kelble has announced the annual Riverfest & Rodeo will be held Saturday, July 14 at the Low Water Bridge Campground (192 Panhandle Rd., Rt. 613 off Route 340) on the ‘Doah near Bentonville, Virginia from 5pm - 9pm. The Shenandoah River Rodeo is a celebration of the Shenandoah Valley’s best resource: the river!This is the 5th year Shenandoah Riverkeeper Jeff Kelble is bringing people together for an afternoon on the river! The Shenandoah River Rodeo is a party with paddling, fishing, live music, and camping...all on the banks of the South Fork! Join us on July 14 for a monster BBQ, door prizes, and a live blue-grass band, Uncle Henry’s Favorites! IndividualTicket- $30 (After July 8th, $40). Couple Ticket- $50 (after July 8th, $70). For more information, monitor www.shenandoahriverkeeper.org.

River Rodeo 2012 July 14

Low Water Bridge Campground Bentonville, VA

Come camp and fish along the Shenandoah River with us!

Plenty of activities for children at a FREE family event from 10-3 BEFORE ticketed event from 4-8 pm. For more information and/or tickets:

$30/person $50/couple

July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

3

tournament results “Where tournament anglers can always find gear for a limit”

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On June 2 the teams of the LAPR Bass Potomac River Saturday Division met at Leesylvania State Park to see who would take event number five of the 10-tourney season. When all fish were weighed it was Jim Donegan and Mickey Pettry with the heaviest five fish limit that took home $1,400 for 20.15 pounds of bass. Rob Grike and Eric Nelson were second with 17.90 pounds and won $725. Gary Schembs and Jared Jenkins were third with 17.62 pounds, good for $500. The day’s big fish money of $625 went to Johnny and Jerry Schaefer for a 6.31 bass. Sixty-two boats were in this event with most reporting they were sight fishing for late spawning largemouths in grass beds from Greenway Flats down to Aquia Creek. After five events, the team of Grike and Nelson lead the Team Of The Year standings with 86.43 pounds and winnings of $2,335. Donegan and Pettry are second with 79.40 pounds and $1,975. The next two events will be held July 14 and 28. On May 19 the teams of the Castaway/SurfnTurf Tournament Trail met on the Chickahominy River to see who would claim event number three of the season. 72 boats entered and spread out into the James and Chickahominy Rivers. When all fish were weighed it was SamuelYates and Steve Colgin that emerged victorious with 20.60 pounds, good for $1,200. Larry Lester and Barry Tucker were second with 18.80 pounds and won $800. Richard Addy and Kelly Pratt were third with 17.80 pounds and won $700. Paul and Walter Shattucks took home $700 for their big fish of 6.15 pounds.

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

On June 10 the teams of the LAPR Bass Potomac River Sunday Division fished out of Leesylvania Park with even better results. Fiftyeight boats found fish still spawning and willing to bite. Bryan Schmitt and Dave Wilders won with a five bass limit of 24.66 pound and took home $2,000 for the day. Lenny Baird and Marty Faulhaber were second with 19.52 pounds, good for $1,680 since they also had the biggest fish of the day at 6.70 pounds. Mike Hoskings and David Williams were third with 19.30 pounds and won $700. After six of 10 tournaments, the Team of the Year standings were lead by Shawn Phipps and Brandon Garraway with 115.82 pounds and $4,125 of earnings. Scott Rogers and Butch Conner were second with 112 pounds and $2,915.

Addy and Pratt are leading theTeam of theYear race with 594 points.Yates and Colgin

The next two events will be held July 8 and 22. The teams of the LAPR 150 Bass Series launched from Hope Springs Marina on the Potomac River on June 16 for the beginning of the summer leg of the circuit on the river. In the end it was Scott Conners andTroy Perry with the heaviest five-fish limit at 16.60 pounds and event big fish at 4.22 pounds. They won $675. David Cook and Bill Deeds were second with 15.06 pounds and won $315. John Doyle and Eugene Carter were third with 14.69 pounds and won $210. The Team of the Year standings for this circuit are lead by Jeff Parrish and Clayton Gatewood with 66.18 pounds and $1,005 of earnings. Christ Stanley and Matt Seale are second with 58.87 pounds and $1,092. The next LAPR 150 Bass Series event will be held August 18. For more information, standings and photos on any LAPR tournament circuit, visit www.laprbass.com.

are second with 583. Bo Boltz, Jr. and Mickey Anderson are third with 569. The final two regular qualifying events will be held July 28 and August 18. For complete standings, photos and more, visit www. castaway-surfnturf.com.

Samuel Yates and Steve Colgin.

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5

Woods& Waters

The Area Sportsman’s Authority For Over 25 Years

Vol. XXV Issue I

July 2012

Staff Editor-in-chief C.C. McCotter

12

Destination Tangier 12

There’s a place in the lower Chesapeake teeming with fish this month for you. Capt. Kevin Josenhans

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Classic Web Design

Our Favorite Trips 20 A look back at the crazy things we’ve done over

REGIONAL EDITORS Steve Chaconas Toby Newcomb Bobby Edwards Jeff Poling Dave Fauntleroy Mike Puffenbarger Kevin Josenhans Ryan Rogers Stacy Knighten Chris Wade

the past 25 years with you. C.C. McCotter

Long Days, Hot Fishing 22 So it’s hot? Stop whining and get out on the Bay

CORPORATE OFFICE & ADVERTISING

before you miss a great summer. Capt. Ryan Rogers

Who’s Who of W2 27

phone (540) 894-5960 • fax (540) 894-5973 email [email protected] www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

Meet the talented folks that help us bring you Woods & Waters each month. W2 Staff

W2 Reader Survey 28 We want to get to know you better and will

DEADLINE for August edition is Monday, July 16.

1.50

reward you for your effort.

6

TOURNAMENT RESULTS FIRST CAST MARKETPLACE READER LETTERS WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT REAL ESTATE/RENTALS TOURNAMENT TALK WINGSHOOTING DOGS WITH DEATS CATCHOFTHEDAY CHICK/JAMES TIDES POTOMAC RIVER TIDES OUTDOOR SERVICES DIR. OUTDOOR CLASSIFIEDS CALENDAR OF EVENTS

$

Woods and Waters Publishing, L.C. is not responsible for any injury or damage received as a result of any technical information or advice in the magazine.The contents do not necessarily represent the views of Woods & Waters Publishing L.C. GMCO Maps used with permission.

Plus... 16 18 25 26 30 32 37

Flounder In The Pan Protect Your Food Cabins For Rent Bent Rod Fishing Gun Mounting Tips Retrieving Solutions Green Top Moving?

Cover 25th Anniversary Collector’s Edition.

Regionals 33 35 36 38 40

42 Buggs Island/Lake Gaston 46 Saltwater 48 Richmond/James 49 Chickahominy Lake/River Upper James/Central Virginia 50

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

EDITORIAL STAFF C.C. McCotter - Freshwater Bobby Edwards - Archery Tom Scanlan - Firearms Doug Deats - Dogs Doug Erck - Shooting STAFF WRITERS

Woods & Waters timeline. W2 Staff

4 8 9 10 18 25 26 30 32 34 39 47 52 53 54

PUBLISHER Woods & Waters Publishing, LC

Walter Claxton • Steve Chaconas Doug Deats • Doug Erck

Milestones of W2 14 Some of the more notable points along the

Departments

MANAGING EDITOR Christine McCotter

Lake Anna Potomac River Lake Moomaw Shenandoah Valley Smith Mountain Lake

Woods and Waters Publishing, L.C. assumes no responsibility for delivery after magazines are mailed. All delivery complaints should be addressed to your local postmaster. Send change of address to: WOODS & WATERS MAGAZINE, 75 Edgewood Drive, Mineral, VA 23117.

Home Office (540) 894-5960. Woods & Waters Magazine is a monthly publication owned and published by Woods and Waters Publishing, L.C., 75 Edgewood Drive, Mineral, VA 23117. Copyright © 2012, Woods and Waters Publishing, L.C. All rights are reserved. U.S. subscriptions - $14.50 for 12 issues, $24.50 for 24 issues. Back issues $2.50. Manuscripts, photos, and letters should be addressed to: The Editor, Woods & Waters Magazine, 75 Edgewood Drive, Mineral, VA 23117. Editorial material is welcome but cannot be guaranteed unless exclusive.

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As the area’s #1 used vehicle dealer, as well as Northern Virginia’s #1 Chevy dealer, we take pride in providing a level of service you can’t find just anywhere. At Country Chevrolet, your Warrenton and Culpeper Chevrolet dealer, we make every customer feel welcomed. For the best selection of Chevys from Maine to Florida, look no further than Country Chevrolet in Warrenton!

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SALES (540) 905-4083 SERVICE (540) 905-4501 11 East Lee Hwy, Warrenton, VA 20186. July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

7

first cast 25 Years Of Woods & Waters After 25 years of looking around the next bend, one more cast and hunting one more ridge, we’ve reached a major milestone together. We’ve come a long way since July 1987 when a husband and wife team decided to start their own outdoor publication and call it Woods & Waters. Along the journey we’ve done just about everything one can do in the woods or on the water and tried to bring you the story. We’ve had how-to’s, where-to-go’s, gear reviews, conservation reports, special reports, W2 personalities, contests, tide charts, calendar of events, tournament results and regional reports in 300 issues published in the last 25 years. This month we offer you a few retrospective articles; a look back at 25 Years of Milestones, our Favorite Adventures, Dear W2 Letters from our readers and a Meet Our Talent piece. We also focus a bit on saltwater with two great pieces; one from Capt. Kevin Josenhans and another from Capt. Ryan Rogers. Both men are expert guides on the Chesapeake and I think you’ll find their words inspiring enough to go fishing. Doug Deats offers more tips on how to solve retrieving issues with your dog. Doug Erck writes about how to aim better when wingshooting.

Steve Chaconas offers a fairly controversial but insightful view on tournament angling you’ll want to read. We even have our monthly piece on Wildlife Management and our popular Game Prep recipe squeezed in somewhere! There’s all this plus the Tide/Moon Charts, Tournament Results Page, Regional Focus Reports, Calendar of Events and Outdoor Services Directory. It’s been a great ride with you, and we thank you for the honor of your attention. Here’s to another 25 together exploring the possibilities. Until next time, remember to cherish, protect and conserve the outdoors while sharing it with others.

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woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

Outdoor Books In Pursuit Of Trophy Smallmouth by Jeff Little $1695 Signed Copy

The ultimate guide on how to catch trophy river smallmouth using a kayak. Signed. 60 color photos,130 pages.

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Reveals the best angling spots, every rapid and access point and much more. 192 pgs., 12 maps.

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The New River Guide by Bruce Ingram 12 $

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Covers fishing the river from the highlands of NC to the valleys of VA to the gorges of WV. 174 pgs., 8 river maps.

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Complete guide to all public lakes in Virginia. Contour maps, access points and more. 152 pgs.

Virginia Fishing Guide NEW! $ 95 by Bob Gooch 19

This second edition has been updated by M.W. Smith with more information on southwestern Virginia. It’s still THE book for your collection. 244 pages.

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To order any item, check the products you want, cut out the page and send it with name, address, check, money order or credit card information to: Woods & Waters Marketplace 75 Edgewood Drive, Mineral, VA 23117 or call 540/894-5960. July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

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dear Dear W2, I feel like one of those people that hide somewhere along route of a marathon and then just jump in and run to the finish line with those who started at the beginning. Congratulations to all the people at W2 for putting out such a great magazine, and thanks for letting me run with you for a while. Doug Deats Rasawek Hunting Preserve Dear W2,

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I have been a huge fan of Woods & Waters since I read my first one in 1989. I was working at a tackle shop in Woodbridge Va and just was getting started in the world of bass fishing. The articles and fishing reports came in handy every time I was on the water. I can honestly say that Woods & Waters has helped me go from the novice bass angler to the guide that I am today! Thank you Woods & Waters and here’s is to another 25 years! Chris Craft, CCBASSN Lake Anna Guide Service Dear W2, Woods & Waters is great because it promotes local destinations, trends and personalities. You can’t get that any where else. I’ve been a fan for many years. Steve Myers Country Chevrolet

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The Woods & Waters Big Fish Contest runs through December 31, 2012. The heaviest fish in the largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, rockfish and catfish categories submitted to us will win a hat, golden fish hook and W2 sticker. Catch a lunker or bag a trophy? Write us a note or send an email to: The Editor, Woods & Waters Magazine, 75 Edgewood Dr., Mineral, VA 23117 or [email protected]. If we print your Reader Letter, we’ll send you a Woods & Waters Truck/Boat sticker.

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I want to congratulate Woods & Waters on their upcoming 25 year anniversary, keeping people informed and entertained for 25 years. Keep up the good work guys, and I look forward to being with you for the next 25. Tight lines and get out on the water! Capt. Ryan Rogers The Midnight Sun Dear W2, I read every Woods & Waters. I hope to get my picture with the big striped bass I caught with Chris McCotter it weighed six pounds and I have never got my picture in the magazine! Larry Boykin Richmond, VA

For a look at the new ATVs see these local Arctic Cat dealers: Well, Larry, now you can say you’ve had two pictures in W2! Enjoy. - ED

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*Offer valid 4/1/12 - 6/30/12 at participating U.S. dealers to U.S. residents on new and unused 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 Arctic Cat ATVs, excluding Demo and Special Services models. See dealer for details. FREE FUN UNTIL JANUARY (NO MONEY DOWN, NO INTEREST, NO PAYMENTS UNTIL JANUARY 1, 2013) and 6.9% FINANCING FOR 60 MONTHS are financed through Sheffield Financial and are subject to credit approval; not all applicants will qualify for credit. Each consumer will be charged a $100 Consumer document fee. Financing promotions void where prohibited. Minimum financing total of $700, amortized up to 60 months. REBATES UP TO $1,000 vary by model purchased. Offer subject to change without notice. Excludes tax, freight and dealer setup. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety always wear an approved helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing. Never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. Never engage in stunt driving; riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix and could cause serious injury or even death. Avoid excessive speeds and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Arctic Cat recommends that all riders read and understand their operator’s manual before operation. Along with concerned conservationists everywhere, Arctic Cat urges you to “Tread Lightly” on public and private lands. Ride only on designated areas or trails. Preserve your future riding opportunities by showing respect for the environment, local laws, and the rights of others when riding. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV. Only ride an ATV that is right for your age. Supervise riders younger than 16. ATVs are only recommended for users over 12 years old. Arctic Cat recommends that all riders take a training course. For safety or training information in the U.S., call the ATV Safety Institute at (800) 887-2887 or see your dealer. Do not shoot from or lean firearms or bows against the ATV. ®™ are trademarks or registered trademarks of Arctic Cat Inc. ©2012 Arctic Cat Sales Inc., Thief River Falls, MN 56701. Arctic Cat ATVs and Side by Sides are world-class products from Arctic Cat Inc.

LEAVING A GOOD IMPRESSION

“C’mon honey? Every fish you hook is a monster!”

July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

11

destination file

TANGIER

red drum

By MATT REILLY

W

Island Time

Speckled trout or “specks” are perhaps the most overlooked species to swim these waters. Though not widely known, for close to 20 years a 16-pound behemoth, taken just south of here at Mason’s Beach, Virginia, was the IGFA all tackle world record.

BY CAPT. KEVIN JOSENHANS Locals have a saying, “when the gnats are biting, so are the drum.” Judging by the cloud of tiny no-seeums jockeying for position around my head, we were here at the right time. It was mid-May on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and my dad and I were 12

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

trying to snag a speckled trout along the bank of the Manokin River – a tributary to Tangier Sound and part of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. We had anchored-up on a point of land jutting into the main river. A dozen lively peeler crabs were our

bait of choice that evening, as the water temperature was still somewhat cool for good lure fishing. As the tide began to ebb the trout came to life. First, a fat four-pound female, laden with roe, came to the boat. We gently slipped her back overboard

Love The Fish

just as a second rod went down. A feisty, head-shaking fish cleared the water, as the silvery three-pound male tried to dislodge the razorsharp hook lodged in his jaw. Two more specks fell for our offerings and then, suddenly, the bite died. An eerie calm engulfed our surroundings, where just moments before, the thrashing antics of my beloved speckled trout had shattered the stillness of the night. Suddenly, the starboard rod tried to jump from its holder. Line peeled from the reel as the drag screamed in protest. After a dogged ten minute battle the huge fish was brought boatside, the coppery hues of the fish’s back reflecting in the setting sun. A quarter-sized black spot just forward of the tail confirmed our initial hopes and I slid the rubber-coated net under a beautiful forty-pound red drum. For the briefest of moments, we might have been anchored in the back bays of North Carolina or along the Texas Gulf coast; the setting was

cause sleepless nights and bragging rights at the local breakfast grills.

so similar. But this was Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay, in a place where we could experience a touch of the south. After several photographs and a congratulatory handshake, we made short order of reviving the bull red for a quick release. Striped bass are, of course, king here on the Chesapeake Bay; but in Crisfield, Maryland, its speckled trout and red drum that cause sleepless nights and bragging rights at the local breakfast grilles. More often associated with warmer climes to the south, these two cousins in the drum family provide some fantastic action beginning in May, that lasts right through to early fall. Tangier Sound lies at the midpoint of the Chesapeake Bay, equally bisected by the Maryland-Virginia state line. Comprised of a vast area of shallow, grassy flats, this watery jewel is interspersed with dozens of uninhabited, marshy islands, along with the historic island communities of Smith Island, Maryland and Tangier, Virginia. This low-lying

speckled trout

rockfish IF YOU GO:

Speckled trout and red drum

The area of the Chesapeake aroundTangier Island is vast and can be treacherous to the uninitiated. Seriously consider hiring a guide like the author to familiarize yourself with navigation and fishing areas. 443.783.3271

marshy landscape plays host to a large number of local and migrating waterfowl, including one of the northernmost nesting populations of the brown pelican. The primary jumping-off spot for shallow water fishing in this area is Crisfield, Maryland. Located just thirty minutes south of the town of Salisbury this small waterman’s community has all the amenities needed for a short or extended fishing trip. Although the Crisfield area might be best known for its fantastic bottom fishing, this area is fast being discovered as one of the premier shallow water fly fishing destinations on the Chesapeake Bay, if not the entire east coast. The topography gives the appearance of fishing the Carolinas, or the Florida backwaters further south. In addition to acres of eel grass flats, there are many sunken stumps from long-since-downed walnut and cedar trees. Much of what was once land is now a submerged stumpforest of fish-attracting structure. Care must be taken when navigating the shallow flats, as the stumps are not visible from the water’s surface. A good guide with local knowledge is a worthwhile investment for the first trip or two. Though treacherous to navigate, it is this underwater minefield that attracts numerous game fish species to the shallows. It is here that spring begins with a flurry of fishing activity chasing spots and stripes. Speckled trout or “specks” are perhaps the most overlooked species to swim these waters. Though not widely known, for close to twenty years a sixteen pound behemoth, taken just south of here at Mason’s Beach, Virginia, was the IGFA all tackle world record. That record was bested by 1-½ pounds with a Florida fish in 1995, but it shows you the quality of fishing this area has to offer. continued on page 17 July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

13

25th anniversary A LOOK BACK

Milestones Along The Way 1987 Woods & Waters is founded when Tony and Faith Balita break off from Fish Finder Publications and create their own product.

record largemouth bass caught from Briery Creek Lake with photo.

1990 Woods & Waters hits 100+ pages.

1995 W2 circulates petition supporting the public right to float the Jackson River and advocates for no private ownership of rivers.

1992 C.C. McCotter hired as graphic artist and Regional Editor.

1996 W2 reports on the closure of Lake Manassas to the public.

1993 McCotter is named Associate Editor.

1997 Balita founds W2 Archery Institue and starts a 3D archer circuit that helps promote this new aspect of the sport.

1994 W2 documents near miss on Virginia

1998 W2 website created and magazine publishes the first of many subsequent interviews 14

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

with Virginia’s candidates for governor.

Dave Fauntleroy and Jeff Poling.

2000 W2 sold by FTB Publisher to Woods & Waters Publishing, LC.

2003 W2 advocates for restocking of the Chickahominy River with Concerned Bass Anglers of Virginia.

2001 Creation of the popular Destination File Series promoting trips and adventures around the region. 2003 Woods & Water’s Outdoor Marketplace created where readers can purchase maps, books and DVDs. Woods & Waters Adventures formed offering trip packages to readers. 2005 Capt.Ryan Rogers and Capt. Steve Chaconas join W2 as columnists. 2007 First Woods & Waters Pro Team formed consistening of Rob Grike, John Hutchins, Rich Newton,

2009 W2 travels to Back Bay and notes a thriving bass fishing. Doug Deats and Doug Erck join W2 as regular columnists. 2010 W2 advocates for the reopening of Lake Manassas to the public but all attempts are blocked. 2011 Woods & Waters joins Facebook. 2012 W2 marks 25th Anniversary of publishing with new stickers, the Woods & Waters Edition Country Chevrolet Silverado truck and a new all-color format.

Dear W2, Long before I started writing a wingshooting column in W2 I have enjoyed the magazine’s excellent coverage of the outdoors. I look forward to seeing what new adventures are being covered in the new edition. And one of the things I like most is the magazine’s diversity. By that I mean the editors cover a very wide range of interests. So even though I am not a big game hunter and I don’t get to fish as much as I would like, there are always articles and tips about things that interest me. Finally, C.C. McCotter and his staff have been a big supporters of our products and our marketing goals. Exposure in W2 has helped our business grow and begin to develop a recognizable brand in the outdoor community.

[email protected]

dear

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Doug Erck Wingshooting Instructor To the Folks at Woods & Waters, I wish to congratulate you on your 25th anniversary. I have had the pleasure of having a great affiliation and relationship with you since 1989 and the fond memories are many. Just think of all the fishing reports, articles, outdoor shows, photo shoots, and ads we have collaborated on over the years. The list is long and I realize how blessed I am to have played a small part in the growth during that time. Chris, Chrissie, Maggie and Mitch, I think the world of you guys and I wish you many more years of producing the region’s premier outdoor magazine. My best to you. Dave Fauntleroy Anna Point Marina

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www.mountainmeadow.net July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

15

tablefare

Summer’s Favorite Fish? BY MIKE PUFFENBARGER

P

erhaps the tastiest fish that swims the area’s coastal waters is a flounder. As summer progresses, the flatties get aggressive and the fishing gets better and better in the the Chesapeake Bay. Here’s one of our favorite recipes for you to try! 4 flounder fillets 1/3 cup cornmeal 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 egg lightly beaten 1 tablespoon water 1/2 cup vegetable oil

16

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

Rinse fish and pat dry. Combine cornmeal, flour, salt, paprika, onion powder and pepper on sheet of wax paper. Combine egg and water in shallow dish or pie plate. Dip fish in egg mixture then coat with cornmeal mixture. Heat oil to 365 in electric skillet or heavy skillet. Fry fish for seven minutes on each side then drain on paper towels.

Recipes like this can be found in the Woods & Waters Cooking For Outdoor Sportsmen Cookbook, on sale now for $10, s & h included! Call 540.894.5960 to order yours or vist www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com.

tangier continued from page 13

The specks begin feeding when the water temperature reaches sixty degrees, with peak activity occurring around seventy-two. In an average year, these early fish are of good size, as they are pre-spawn fish with all of the females loaded with roe. The average spring speck will run two to four pounds, with the occasional six-pound fish thrown in for good measure. Larger specimens are boated every year. There has been a marked increase in the speckled trout population during the past two seasons, due primarily to above-average spawns and warmer weather in their wintering grounds of North Carolina. Trout can’t tolerate sudden drops in water temperature very well and a sudden heavy snow, or an extended period of cold weather, can trap the fish in the creeks of Carolina’s sounds causing massive die-offs. There has been no such occurrence during the past two winters. Tangier Sound anglers are currently experiencing some of the best speck fishing in the past twenty years! The first of the springtime specks are caught in the tidal rivers that feed the main body of the sound. During the early part of the season, the rivers maintain a more consistent water temperature than the flats and they are full of baitfish and crabs that speckled trout relish. Once spring cold fronts diminish, the grass flats of the main body of Tangier will produce some fantastic lure and fly-fishing opportunities for the shallow water angler. Techniques include casting onequarter to three-eighth ounce lead heads with pearl or chartreuse Bass Assassin Sea Shads, Storm Wildeye Shads and Bass Kandy Delight’s (BKD’s). Medium weight spinning rods of six to seven feet spooled with fifteen-pound braided line is the preferred tackle. If the specks are running big, a short piece of twentypound shock tippet is recommended, as the violent head shakes of the

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continued on page 19 July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

17

wildlife & land management Trial and error revealed the best way to protect a food plot was to install an electric strip fence.

Protecting Your Work By ADAM KORMAN As we slip into early summer most of your spring annuals have been installed or you are wrapping them up. As we see very often in our neck of the woods, as soon as quality vegetation begins to pop, animals begin to hammer it. And if we don’t protect it,... well, you won’t have anything reaching maturity. Meaning no corn or soybeans for hunting season. And that could mean the difference between a bare spot on the wall or an empty freezer. Now, I have tried a few different things to protect my food plots from over grazing. I’ve used traditional methods that have been passed down to me from my great grand Pappy, such as human hair, pie pans on strings attached to posts. I have also tried the canvas tape systems that you apply deer and rabbit repellant directly to. They work to a point with deer. If 18

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

you are in a higher deer density area, then you can expect them to only work 40-50%. If rabbits are a problem as well, then you might try adding another lower string of tape, but just the single line won’t do you any good to keep both deer and rabbits out, mainly because of the height differences of the two animals. Rabbits won’t smell the tape at 32 inches high. I say rabbits, and some folks will wonder, asking: “Rabbits over grazing my food plots?” Absolutely! Many times we don’t really notice them because we don’t relate rabbits to feasting on our hard work in that amount. Shooting them is not an option. Do we really

want guns going off in our plots this early, especially when we want as little pressure as possible in these areas all year long? The only true, tested, 100% sure way to keep animals out for an appointed time is either a high fence system that would cost you a ton on man hours and cash, or a high quality electrical fence system. Now with that said, what are the options? Well, you can visit a local farm or tractor store and buy some random parts and piece one together yourself and end up with parts and pieces, or take a look at Gallagher USA’s line of fencing systems created just for food plots and all the animals that they attract. I was skeptical my first time and so are my customers when I recommend them for their applications. Just recently we had a rabbit problem and it was soybeans that were getting hit very hard. Fortunately we had a fence already in place, and all I did was lower the outside bottom level to about three inches. The customer reported, “No more bunnies.” Problem solved. Once purchased, I own it for life, and I can install and remove it in about an hour. Nothing works like they do. I use it and I will never go back to tapes or pie pans. The lesson here; protect your plots with the right method so you can get the most out of your hard work.

Welcome to W2’s Wildlife Habitat & Land Management. This section is dedicated to our growing number of readers interested in managing their property, hunting leases and even back yards. If you have a product, service or tips you would like to promote in W2, contact Edwards at 434.664.7163 or [email protected]. This month’s submission was written by Adam Korman of Patriot Outdoors. Email him at [email protected]

tangier

toothy trout will more often than not slice through a light leader. For the fly fisherman, an eightweight rod with a 175-250 grain sinking line will do the trick. You will be fishing waters averaging two to eight feet deep, and the weighted line will allow the fly to work deeper into the water column, thus spending more time in the strike zone. When fishing the more shallow flats, or over grass, an intermediate will suffice. A five to six-foot piece of twenty-pound mono or fluorocarbon leader works well. Three basic fly patterns will work for all species; Lefty’s Deceivers, Clouser Deep Minnows and poppers. The Clouser is the fly of choice, as the hook rides upright and fouls less. The dumbbell eyes also cause the fly to dip and dart, which is very effective on the specks. Many times the strike will come as the fly sinks in between strips. Flies should be tied full and with ample flash. The shallow-waters can sometimes become slightly off-colored and the extra bulk will push more water, which helps the fish locate the fly through their lateral line. Favorite colors include chartreuse/white, olive/white and a local favorite, fluorescent yellow with gold flash. Joe Bruce’s crab-colored clouser; a mixture of tan, olive and white buck tail with copper flash, is also popular. Tie these patterns on 1/0 or 2/0 stainless hooks in two to six-inch lengths. This best represents the size of the Atlantic Silversides, the most prevalent baitfish inhabiting the shallows. While trout are the bread and butter fish of spring anglers, it is the red drum (don’t say redfish in these parts) that cause grown men to act child-like during the spring run. These are big fish by anyone’s standards. Averaging twenty to forty-pounds, the drum arrive around the first of May. This Destination File is continued on our website:

www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

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continued from page 17

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19

25th anniversary OUR FAVORITE ADVENTURES

25 Years Of Fun And Adventure With You By C.C. MCCOTTER After 25 years of looking around the next bend and bringing you the story, we’ve had a lot of adventures. We’ve stayed in horrible motel rooms, amazing cabins, enjoyed fantastic hospitality and not so fantastic hospitality, caught thousands of fish, bagged everything from antelope to waterfowl, traveled from Maine to Florida and driven some great 4x4 tracks in Chevys, Nissans and JEEPs. Our Destination File Series is at 100+ stops, so that alone would keep you busy for a while. What do we do for the next 25 years? Time will tell and we’re open to suggestions. See

our Reader Survey on page 28. Here we offer you our favorite adventures of all time. Perhaps you’ll remember some of them from our coverage. Even if you don’t we hope to inspire you to head into the woods or waters in the coming months. Canadian Fishing Trip We traveled to KO Lodge for 11 years straight with readers and friends and enjoyed amazing adventures. We caught smallmouth, northern pike, muskellunge and walleye, as well as sturgeon, yellow perch, largemouth bass, pumpkinseed, red eyes and some

Chincoteague Rail fish we don’t even know the name of over the years. If you have the means, go on a Canadian fishing trip with your family and friends. The memories will last a lifetime. Remember, your first year up is the learning year. It gets easier every year after that. Ko-riverlodge.com Chincoteague Rail Chincoteague is located in the extreme

Ross Lake Camps 20

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

northeast corner of Virginia’s eastern shore. Oysters and hunting are what made Chincoteague famous in days of old. While these tasty shellfish are not as plentiful these days, the hunting is still good and the local businesses have tried very hard to market “The Island” as a vacation destination. What makes it special to me, though, are plenty of hidden beaches and places

accessible only by boat or kayak, great flounder and channel bass (red drum) fishing and many species of ducks and geese for hunters. There’s also the rail hunting. Captain Pete Wallace is your rail hunting guide and local expert. He has a 20’ Carolina Skiff he uses as a landing craft to access the “tumps” of mud and grass that double as marsh hen habitat. Each is

Rustic cabins, slogging through marshes, floating rivers, meeting good hosts and bad.... we’ve done some stuff!

covered usually by at least an inch or so of water at low tide (totally covered except for the grass at a good high tide) and harbor literally thousands of minnows, snails, worms, bugs and birds. It smells rank, too, but that just means it’s full of thousands of years worth of life. Capt. Pete has a saying about rail: “They hide, run, swim and only then fly.” Rail season begins September 10. If you call quickly, I think Capt. Wallace might be able to find room for you on the boat for a hunt. He’s a lot of fun and really knows the marsh around Chincoteague. You can hunt in the morning and then dine on oysters in the evenings at Don’s Restaurant. (www.chincoteaguehunt-fish.com or 757.894.8148). I always stay at the Island Motor Inn (www.islandmotorinn.com and 757.336.3141). It’s a wonderful hotel located right on the water of Chincoteague Bay. All rooms look out from a private balcony, and ducks and seabirds often serenade you if you leave the sliding door open. Back Bay While we’ll know for sure if Back Bay is truly back next month (we have a trip scheduled) from all indications it’s well on it’s way. Now some of you might remember 30 years

ago when this 50,000 acre, brackish bay was considered one of the best largemouth bass fisheries in the county. Unfortunately something went wrong and the fishery collapsed. Not any more. For the past five years, there have been whispers that the grass was back, the water clear again and the bass were plentiful. You might recall our trip to Ram Island Lodge three years ago in September when we found plenty of milfoil and bass fishing from kayaks. Conditions are so favorable, in fact, the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries are stocking Back Bay with largemouth bass, something they don’t do unless things are just right. We predict Back Bay is going to be one of the hottest bass fisheries in the east for the next 25 years, so make plans to visit soon. Stay tuned for our recap in next month’s issue. Get a jump start and order the new Back Bay/North River GMCO map on page 9. The Tall Oak Farms Experience If you’ve always wanted to enjoy fine southern hospitality at a hunting and fishing destination, call Bill Hetzel of Tall Oak Farms after you read this and book a few days. Hetzel has created an incredible place to

hunt and stay down near Buggs Island Lake on the border of Virginia and North Carolina and you must experience it before you get too old to carry the gun or rod I went last year with my son and Brittany spaniel

New River Float

continued on page 41

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saltwater

lines DOWN

Longer Days, Hot Fishing

Bluefish, Spanish Mackeral, Spadefish, Flounder, Croaker, Drum and Rockfish Are All Biting Now. By CAPT. RYAN ROGERS

The secret about summer fishing on the Chesapeake Bay is that if you can manage the heat you can enjoy some of the best fishing of the year. From bottomfishing for croaker to jigging for flounder, saltwater captains can show you some great days.

Summer On The Bay It always amazes me during the hottest months of the year the lack of fisherman I see on the Bay. I know it’s hot, and there’s vacations, baseball games, and everything else under the sun that needs to be taken care of during the summer 22

months, but this is the time to get your light tackle sticks out and go to work.

down, and the hot conditions make it almost unbearable at times, that’s why the smart angler is Hit ‘Em Early and up before the sun. Stay Out Later In all my experiI agree during ence with summer the middle; and time fishing it the hottest part of seems right at sunthe day, the fishrise and a couple ing generally slows of hours afterwards

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

the fish seem to be most active, and this holds true for whatever type of fish you’re targeting in the Bay. So many times on

those pretty slick mornings leaving Smith Point Jetties I’ve seen flock after flock of birds and fish thrashing on the surface. Mack-

erel, blues, and rock all feeding on silver side minnows and not one of these species can turn down jig, casting spoon or even a top water lure pitched at them. Fish are just like us they get lazy as the day heats up, but the same deal holds true in the afternoon. Usually from five o’clock on as the sun starts getting low on the horizon the bite heats back up, and for bottom fisherman some of the best fishing of the day is after the sun goes down behind the trees. I don’t know what it is about the night time that the croaker like so much, but as of late some of my best croaker fishing has been after sunset. What Should I Look For? In July and August; as I mentioned earlier, it’s the best time of the year for breaking fish. These schools are usually located by birds working the water over large schools of baitfish. In early July Taylor blues are generally the predominate species but later in the month Spanish mackerel mix in with the blues, and in Maryland portions of the Bay it’s not uncommon to catch keeper rockfish in these schools as well. When bait is in abundance in the bay it’s highly possible to have a run in with the big redfish, and you talk about a guy that can tear up some tackle. Both Virginia and Maryland have tight regs. on the red drum

so make sure you know the rules and carefully release the ones that are over the size limit. For bottom fishing in the evening I like to look around structure for some of the larger croaker. Stone piles, wrecks, and fishing reefs are your best bet for these guys, and you have no boat; no worries, croakers can be caught off the dock and the beach this time of the year as well. Fishing piers are also good places to try for croaker and other bottom dwelling species. How Do I Get ‘Em? Running a charter boat I’ve got to produce numbers, so with that being said most the time I troll with light rods. Trolling several rods in your spread leads to multiple hook ups, and more fish in the box. Number one and number two planers as well as small, inline sinkers trailed by a small spoon or bucktail will catch just about any species in the Bay that time of the year. One key factor to remember when trolling is to circle the school of fish and let your lures run through them instead of running right through the middle of the school. Not only will this cost you on your fish catch, you won’t be very popular with fellow anglers in the area as well. The light tackle guys like to ease up to the school shut their continued on page 24

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Longer Days, Hot Fishing continued from page 23

catching a nice bluefish on a light casting rod or ultra-light, but the only down fall is moving a lot and trying to stay out of the trollers’ way. Courtesy is always the best policy, and even after the birds and boats leave the area you’re working you can usually still mark the fish on the fish finder and still catch them jigging. Bottom fisherman rely on their two old standbys this time of the year - blood worms and squid, and if you’re able to obtain peeler crab from your local tackle shop or crabber, that’s even better. Throw a piece of each on a double-hooked, bottom rig and you’re in business, croakers beware. What Else Is There This Time Of The Year? For shallow water fisherman this is one of the best times of the year for speckled trout, puppy drum, blues and small rockfish that congregate near marshes and other shoreline structure. A Berkley Gulp! and small Bass Assassins are deadly baits for shallow water and anything swimming will bit them. Further out in the Bay besides the species I’ve already mentioned, it’s not uncommon to run across spade fish. The spades

love to hang around structure, and they don’t hang out alone. Again wrecks and reefs hold these fish, and a small piece of clam on 1 or 2/0 hook will get ‘em. You will need a small split shot to get your bait down, and when they hit hold on, pound for pound there is no fish that fights harder than a spade, and they’ve been nicknamed “a bream on steroids.” Flounder fishing heats up during the summer months. The lower Chesapeake is the best place to target the flatties, around the bridge tunnel as well as the buoy 42 and Cell area, but we’ve had some banner catches around Tangier Island in the middle bay, as well as Cornfield Harbor in the Potomac River. My most important tip is relying on local knowledge, befriend the guys at the tackle shop or local charter boat captains and don’t be scared to ask questions. With what you’ve learned in this article it should make your summer time fishing much more enjoyable, and remember get out of that bed early and get on the water.

TRIP SUGGESTIONS

If you are ready to go saltwater fishing this summer, see pages 34-35 for the Woods & Waters Charter Captains ready to take you. Call in the evening and leave a message with your trip date request.They will get back to you as soon as they can. When you go, don’t forget to tip the mate! Good luck.

Book Me Now If You Want To Get A Big Summer Flounder!

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Former Virginia State Record Holder

804.349.3898 James River

www.nightstalkerfishingcharters.com 24

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

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tournament talk In spite of an effort over the winter, by a few, to “ban” big tournaments from the Potomac River, FLW’s All American above the Wilson Bridge and the Tour event below the bridge went off without a hitch. National Harbor is a spectacular site for showcasing bass fishing and visitors were exposed to the sport. Now, if we get the local media to take interest. That’s the good news. The bad news was shared by bad moves. First bad move. A “kids” fishing event... really a fishing trip for the school’s donors with a few kids tossed in for good PR…took place on the tourney’s second day. While the event was well-intended, the boat “captains” (with a small c) made it two years in a row to chose to fish the same waters as the pro anglers. These guys should know better. According to FLW, after last year, it was brought to their attention that these boaters were interfering with the pro event. These boaters were told to stay in the offlimits area. Some did. Those who did not abide by this common sense rule undercut

BENT ROD FISHING

the opportunities of the pro anglers who had enough to worry about just catching their fish. This only did not make sense, it was senseless! Most of these boaters fish tournaments, or have even fished in some of the major events. How could they intentionally interfere? FLW and the school needs to lay down

Capt. Steve Chaconas, Potomac bass fishing guide, BoatUS “Ask the Expert” (http://my.boatus.com/ askexperts/bassfishing/) Potomac River reports: www.nationalbass.com.

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woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

the law! Common sense needs to prevail. There are plenty of fish in National Harbor, especially after the first day release of over 1,000 fish! There was no legitimate reason for the boaters to have left the harbor! None! In addition to these boaters, there was another group that needs to revaluate their fishing actions during tournaments. While they have every “right” to fish during these events, it is poor etiquette for them to “bent rod” the pros who are fishing for a living. The message being sent isn’t a lack of respect for top-level pro tournament anglers. It is instead disrespect for the sport of bass fishing. It is a clear message from bass anglers that tournaments are not a sporting event, rather a game. Skill is supplanted by luck and good fortune. Interfering is just part of the game and some bass anglers don’t appear to be invested in the future of the sport, rather

In Pursuit Of Trophy Smallmouth Bass My Life In A Kayak JEFF LITTLE “Over 130 pages of insight into Mr. Little’s brilliant smallmouth mind offers readers new appreciation for a grand way to enjoy area rivers. An instant classic. The photos alone are inspiring.” - C.C. McCotter, Editor, Woods & Waters Magzine

Mail payment to: Woods & Waters Magazine 75 Edgewood Dr., Mineral, VA 23117 Please add $3.50 s&h, plus 5% sales tax if VA resident.

25th anniversary

MEET OUR STAFF

Who’s Who of W2 Meet Our Team Of Talent

Chaconas

With 25 years of adventures behind us, Woods & Waters wanted to show our continuing commitment to covering the outdoors with a new look for 2012 and a re-introduction of our fine staff. Each member of our team is a valuable piece of a bigger tool that collects and dispenses outdoor information intended to entertain, inform and educate you, our reader. We encourage you to send your favorite staffer an email when they give you something particularly enjoyable or interesting in the coming months. If you are ready for a subscription, please turn to page eight and fill out our form today. We hope you have a happy and healthy 25 more years questing in the woods and on the water. If you are interested in joining our staff, contact us by email and tell us about yourself. We have Regional Editor openings for Saltwater

Deats

(Tidewater area), Central Virginia, Northwestern Virginia (Winchester area) and Southwestern Virginia. Steve Chaconas Is a Staff Writer for W2 penning his Tournament Talk and contributes to the Potomac River Regional Focus each month. He is a U.S. Coast Guard Captain, licensed by the Potomac River Fisheries Commission and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Steve has been featured in local and national publications: BASSMASTERS, BASS TIMES, BASSIN’ Magazine, Boat US Magazine, The Washington Post, The Washington Times, The Los Angeles Times, National Geographic, ESPN and others. He’s been: emcee of the St. Jude Children’s Hospital Tournament the past 15 years, a member of Boat U. S. Speakers Bureau and the Southeastern Outdoor Press

Planning a Trip To Lake Anna this summer?

Edwards

Erck

Association and American Sportfishing Association. Steve has been awarded an Excellence in Craft award from SEOPA and was the recipient of the Mount Vernon–Lee Chamber of Commerce 2002 and 2003 Home-Based Business of the Year Award. Prior to fishing, Steve’s careers included teaching high school algebra and sales of cars, computers and surgical products. He also hosted the longest running all-financial morning radio show in the country in Washington, DC and is considered to be “The Father of Business Radio”. [email protected] Doug Deats Is our Dog Training Editor and sage of all things about bird dogs. He writes Dogs With Deats each month and mused on many things, all with a connection to his passion for working with bird dogs.

Wade

He lives in Goochland County where he operates The Kennels at Mill Creek Farm and the nearby Rasawek Hunting Preserve. He’s been a dog trainer for over 50 years and enjoys grouse hunting when he can get away. deats@yahoo. com Bobby Edwards Our Hunting Editor and Smith Mountain Regional Editor, Edwards is a talented writer that regales us during the hunting season with his Hunting With Bobby Edwards regular feature. He’s written dozens of articles on everything from scout cameras to hunting the edges for big bucks. He operates Capture Outdoors and knows volumes about food plots, deer behavior, archery and hunting in whitetails all over the state. If you have a question about deer hunting or the gear he uses, Edwards continued on page 29

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reader survey It’s been a few years since we last asked for your feedback. The information you provide on this survey will help us be a better information provider to you. We encourage you to take a few moments to thoughtfully answer this questionare and either mail it back to us (75 Edgewood Dr., Mineral, VA 23117), fax it back to us (540.894.5973) or scan and send it back to us as a PDF or JPEG file ([email protected]) . Those that do AND include their return address will receive the new W2 Sticker. Two lucky responders will receive a complimentary one-year subscription.Your personal information will not be shared outside our office. We are looking more for readership trends.

I am a __ hunter, __ angler, __ camper, __ paddler. I like to __ bow hunt, __ gun hunt, __ crossbow hunt. I hunt __ deer, __ upland game, __ ducks/geese, __ turkey, __ varmints, __ small game, __ dove. I spend __ days a year hunting. I like to fish __ freshwater, __ saltwater, __ brackish water. I like to __ paddle rivers, __ wade rivers, __ boat on rivers. I spend __ days a year fishing. I own a __ pick-up truck, __ SUV, __ ATV, __ boat, __ kayak, __ canoe, __ camper. When I vacation I go to __ the lake, __ the river, __ the Bay, __ the mountains, __ the bar, other ______________. I am __ 18-25 years old, __ 26-35, __ 26-45, __46-55, __ 56+. My income is __ less than $30k, __ $30-$50k, __ $50k-$75, __, __ $75-$100K, ___ I’m makin’ bank. I own __ handguns, __ shotguns, __ rifles, __ a bow, __ crossbow. I shop at __ local outdoor shops, __ big box shops, __ both. I prefer shopping at __ local outdoor shops, __ big box shops. My favorite outdoor shop is _____________________________. My favorite part of reading W2 is ________________________. Woods & Waters Magazine should have more coverage of __ bass fishing, __ saltwater fishing, __ deer hunting, __ guns, __ tournaments, __ new gear, __, local personalities, __ boats, __ opinions. __ destinations, __ girls in bikinis posing with fish. If I owned Woods & Waters I would ________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________. How many people on average look at your Woods & Waters? _____ Do you visit the Woods & Waters website? ___ yes, __ no. Do you visit the Woods & Waters Facebook site? __ yes, __ no.

28

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

Who’s Who Of W2 continued from page 27

is an email away and a great resource. [email protected] Doug Erck Is W2’s Wingshooting Editor and writes a monthly column filled with tips and advice. He’s a certified National Sporting Clays Association Level I Instructor, a certified National Rifle Association Shotgun Instructor, an Associate Member, Institute of Clay Shooting Instructors, Great Britain and a certified 4-H Shotgun Coach. Erck became a shooting instructor because he wanted to share his love of the shotgun sports with others and hopefully bring more people into the tradition. He says “It brings me great pleasure to take a brand new shooter and have them breaking targets in the first session. It’s almost as enjoyable as taking an experienced wingshooter and by just tweaking continued on page 31

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July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

29

wingshooting We talk about the “move and mount”, and say it just like that because we must move first, get our hands moving in tempo with the bird, and mount the gun towards the end of the move and just before we pull the trigger. We should not mount the gun first, and then try to find and chase the target. Because the gun mount occurs at the end of the “move and mount”, the gun is out of your field of vision until just the instant the mount finishes and we take the shot. We have mentioned many times the advantages

GUN MOUNTING TIPS

of keeping the gun out of your face as long as possible. The longer the gun is in your field of vision, the more likely you are to look at the bead or the barrels and the gun slows and we miss behind. Far and away, the mounting error we see the most is the gun is pointed and mounted at the bird first. But aren’t we supposed to be shooting at the bird? Well, sort of. We are actually shooting in front (usually) of the bird in order to hit it. So why don’t we mount the gun

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in front of the bird from the beginning? What ends up happening when we mount directly at a crossing bird is the gun is going “up” while the target is going “over”. The target gets a big jump on you and the chase is on! The correction is to move the barrels towards the kill point as the very first move the barrels make. This is especially a problem when the ready position is such that the gun is not pointing in the general vicinity of the breakpoint in the beginning. Lots of new shooters adopt a ready position with the gun pointing down. Remember, the birds are in the air, the gun should be pointing in the air as the move begins. Another thing that causes misses is the back hand (trigger hand) moves too fast or is jerky. If the back hand makes a strong finish as the gun is mounted, the barrels will see-saw down using the front hand as a fulcrum. This causes the barrel to get off line and miss under. So as you finish the mount, concentrate on keeping the back hand moving smoothly and slowly just enough to bring the gun to the face and pull the trigger! Especially critical to keep the back hand moving smoothly on quartering targets and targets going straight away. And then there is the “death grip”. New shooters, and many times experience shots, have a life and death grip on the gun with both hands, often more so on the back hand. We can see the blood rushing out of your knuckles! Relax, they ain’t shootin’ back!! The grip should be just firm enough to hold the gun up. Especially just before calling “pull”, keep the hands and arms relaxed. Your muscles will be able to respond to the target quicker if they are already relaxed when the move starts. When you mount the gun, you are bringing the gun up to the face/cheekbone. Again, bring the gun up to the face. Do not stick the gun in your shoulder and then place your head on the stock, as this will cause a multitude of issues. Bring the gunstock firmly under your cheekbone and then roll your shoulder into the butt of the gun to finish the mount. Fortunately, most of these gun-mounting issues can be worked on at home for free. Practicing your gun mount 25-30 times each night will really smooth out the process. We know from experience and from working with some students who actually do the mounting practice

Who’s Who Of W2

continued from page 23

them ever so slightly, we can make their total approach to the process drastically more efficient and relaxed – and therefore more consistent.” [email protected].

risonburg area and works at Rockingham Cooperative. He started as Regional Editor in the spring of 2012 and enjoys bow hunting and fishing. [email protected]

Stacy Knighten Knighten is W2’s new Shenandoah Regional Editor and contributor of reports and articles focused on his love of fishing and the Shenandoah River. Knighten lives in the Har-

C.C. McCotter McCotter is the Editor In Chief of W2 and resides in the Lake Anna community. He was hired in 1992 as a Regional Editor/Designer by Woods & Waters, was named Associate Edi-

tor in 1997 and bought the publication in 2000. He has written over 1,000 articles and been featured in many fishing magazines. He has received nucontinued on page 51

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dogs with deats There’s an old story about a little boy going down the road pulling a rope. When asked why he was pulling that rope down the road, he paused for a minute, took his hat off and scratched his head, and replied matter-of-factly. “I tried pushing it and it didn’t work worth a hoot.” Getting to the bird is usually the pull that drags a good dog down the road. In spite of that, every once in a while you get one that will sniff a downed bird and walk away. I even saw one lift his leg and hose one down once. Of course, his owner had some rude habits, too. Although this looks like a tough problem, it usually can be cured. We’ll start easy and go hard. The first solution is not to allow your dog to go look for a new bird until the first one has been dealt with. You can over-do this by spending too much time with a

RETRIEVING PROBLEMS

downed bird, but don’t let the dog decide when to move on. This is a team effort, but you are the team leader. Second, go to the bird and act like a nut with excitement. Shake the bird above your dog’s head throw it in the air a little ways and catch it, now throw the bird a short distance. This is often enough to get the ball rolling. Sometimes a little competition with another dog will get the juices flowing, too. Here’s a bit of bonus info for you. One of the best dog trainers I ever worked with liked to start his dogs young. He started early, went slow and kept it light. When he had a young pup that wouldn’t pick up a bird he would get down on all fours, hold the bird in his mouth by the wing, make growl-

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woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

ing sounds, and shake his head back and forth. The puppies though it was a great game and would want to play tug-a-war. The next thing you know, having a bird in their mouth is a good thing. Hey, it’s your call on this one. I like my dogs to swim and get them used to water young. If your dog is a strong swimmer, clip the wings on a pigeon and throw it into calm water. The pigeon will make a real fuss trying to swim. Send your dog out to get him. There are very few dogs that can resist this one. If nothing else works, force-break the dog to retrieve. I don’t like force breaking but will do it if I have to. I do not feel that force breaking is harsh. I just feel it masks poor breeding. I have trained both timber wolfs and coyotes. Wolfs are a pack animal and believe in teamwork. A juvenile wolf will kill a rabbit and carry it for miles to share with a litter of puppies that are not even his. Coyotes pack up as Author Doug Deats is a noted dog trainer that operatesThe Kennels at Mill Creek Farm.He’s also a manager of Rasawek Hunting Preserve in Goochland, Virginia. He welcomes your emails at dougdeats@ yahoo.com.

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REGIONAL FOCUS

For maps of Buggs Island or Lake Gaston see page 9.

Lake Country

July is a busy month on beautiful Buggs Island. While there will be quite a bit of boat traffic – the fishing will still be good! I will be the first to admit that I am no super bass fisherman, but in July at Buggs Island if you are not fishing deep structure you are going to catch few bass, and the fish you catch are going to be smaller. This time of the year you need to be fishing in the 12’ – 22’ range. That is where the better bass will be. Longer points with brush or defined breaklines will work as will individual rock piles or stumps. Early and late day you should still be able to catch fish shallow with Pop-Rs, spooks and buzzbaits but when the sun gets up – especially if it’s a clear day – you need to look deep. Large Texas-rigged worms with 5/8th ounce or ¾ ounce bullet weights will be the ticket. I always try to anchor in

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the shallower water and cast into the deeper water and fish back up the slopes. This allows you to keep in better touch with your offering. If and when things get really tough – go to the shaky head. As far as crappie go – my buddy Chris Bullock has been whacking them. he told me that you can catch them on deeper docks and deeper brush. Casting bucktails is a good way to get on some fish in the summer. The 3/32 or 1/16 ounce bucktails will work best. You can pick these up at Bobcats as well as anything else you may need. July 20, 21 and 22 is the Annual Lakefest Festival in Clarksville. If you come to town or fish I would steer clear of the main lake around Clarksville as there will be thousands of boats on the water. After you fish Saturday, it's always fun to watch the fireworks show from the water. Come enjoy the summer in Lake Country! Toby Newcomb

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DAD'S GOT THE BLUES catchoftheday This is the 13th year I’ve had the it’s not the size of the fish or how privilege to participate in Ken Peryou catch them, it’s all about rotte’s and the Free Lance Star’s action. So on Sunday May 10th “Why I Want toTake Dad Fishing” I loaded up six kids with their contest for Father’s Day. fathers and off in the Bay we Kids are to write an essay on headed. why dad deserves to go fishing, I decided to try some stone piles and the winners get to spend a in an area in the middle bay called day on the bay with us aboard Capt. Ryan the Sou’west Middle Grounds. the Midnight Sun. I do several These stones have always held Rogers trips a year for kids and different blues, rock, croaker and some red charities but when you read the stories that these little guys write about drum in the past, and I felt this would be a why their father deserves to go fishing. It good place to start looking for some fish. will have tears running right down your We started deploying planers, small cheeks. spoons, and rubber hoses; surgical tubes, In the past we’ve had military families who for bluefish and trolling from stone pile to just don’t get the time to spend with kids stone pile looking for the fish. as they would like, families that have lost We hadn’t trolled long at all before I got a loved one who used to be Dad's fishing some good marks on the fish finder and buddy and Dad hasn’t fished since the loss, one, two, three rods went down, “Fish and stories of grandfathers, close friends, on.” We had found the bluefish, one to or other family members stepping up to three pound blues were jumping out the take the role if Dad’s not around. water, lines crossing, and wreaking havoc This year the fishing has been up and in the cockpit. Smiles filled the boat, and down in the Bay to say the least. With the watching the Dads help their kids fight fish warm temperatures the rockfish made an and enjoy the time spent with each other early departure, and the blues and croaker was priceless. hadn’t really gotten going good yet, which Great weather, good fishing, and kids kind of left me in a di- getting to spend time with their heroes is lemma of how I could what the rest of the day was about. I know I say it in every column, but don’t get these families on ever miss the opportunity to spend time some fish. I’ve found with kids on the water with your family. If you ever get the chance to volunteer for young 804-436-1500 ones in outdoor activities, by all means KILMARNOCK,VA take advantage of it. The smiles and the appreciation they have can’t have a dollar amount put on it. It's Time For Fishing out of Rt.we’ll 1 Box 576 Until next time tight lines, and see Croaker! Deltaville, VA you on the Lottsburg, VA 22511 huck's water.

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woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

Chesapeake Bay fishing with Capt. Chuck O'bier

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REGIONAL FOCUS

For maps of the Chesapeake Bay see page 9.

Saltwater I have been guiding clients on the waters of Tangier Sound now for 20 years and we are currently in the midst of one of the best spring speckled trout runs that I have ever experienced. As of this writing (first week of June), during the past week we have been averaging catches of 20 specks per day. It’s usually during the fall months when we see such outstanding numbers. While a few very big fish are around, most of the specks are from the past three season’s recruitment classes and are averaging 16” to 23” in length. Nice specks to be sure. Most of the catching is done by casting 4” Bass Assassin Sea Shads on 3/8 ounce lead-heads around shoreline structure of stumps, rocks and submerged eel grass beds. Look for a good current flow, coupled with clean water. Specks don’t like dirty water. Pearl and chartreuse colored shads have produced best. Flounder fishing is just getting started at the lower portion of Tangier Sound. We drift-jig for the flatties with ½ to ¾ ounce bucktailed jigs, sometimes with a Berkley Gulp! Swimming Mullet twister tail added as a bit of extra enticement.

Chesapeake Bay

My favorite lure is a ½ ounce Li’l Jimy bucktail in gray/white. These are handtied by George Lenard of Specialized Baits fame. You can’t find a better bucktail jig. Drift channel edges, or near submerged structure in 15’-30’ depths and be ready to set the hook at the first sign of any tell-tale tap.The flounder will inhale the lure and if you’re not ready with the hook-set they will spit it out at the blink of an eye. Big stripers can be caught along the shallows of Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay casting large surface poppers, such as the Storm Chug Bug or Stillwater Smack-it!This is a low-light activity and fishing generally slows once the sun rises more than a hand over the water’s surface. Early risers will see the best of the popper fishing. I hear the upper bay and Choptank River are just plan crammed full of juvenile stripers.This is obviously a result of last season’s exceptional spawn. Pan fishermen are having a hard time keeping six to eight-inch rockfish from hooks baited for white perch and croaker. Please release these fish gently, and it might be a good idea to use barbless

REGIONAL EDITOR POSITION

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hooks to facilitate a safe release. These small fish are our future when it comes to striper fishing on the bay. As to the larger brethren of these youngsters, I hear the action has been spotty. In the mid-bay area between Chesapeake Beach and Solomons there have been some good catches of stripers made by anglers jigging BKD’s and Bass Assassin soft plastics along channel edges in 30’ – 40’ depths.Those adept at reading a fish-finder have had the most success. Slowly cruise likely areas looking for striper marks (inverted arches) on the scope, usually hugging the bottom or possibly suspended under ‘bait-balls.’ Summer is just getting started and as the weather warms things should really ‘heat-up!’ Capt. Pete Wallace is now taking reservations for the September Virginia rail season. If you are a bird hunter and have never experienced a Chincoteague hunt, Pete Wallace style, you need to book a morning. He transports you from marshy island to marshy island via his Carolina Skiff and you flush rail. You are walking in water up to your knees

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www.nightstalkerfishingcharters.com James River July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

35

Richmond

For a map of the James River see page 9.

REGIONAL FOCUS

If the hot, humid, sticky, miserable days of summer ever get here there are a few ways to beat the heat and get a few hours of great fishing in area waters. First of all, consider fishing the tidal James River. Tidal flows refresh the fishing twice a day. Tidal fish are definitely more frisky than their freshwater counterparts, especially when the tide is running. Normally during the summer the heat doesn’t slow me down. I have been known to go out fishing at dawn and stay until late afternoon. Consider fishing during these key feeding periods as well. Another idea that makes a lot of sense is to fish at night. If that is the route you’re going to take a few precautionary steps should be taken. If fishing from a boat, it will require “running lights”. Depending on the size of the boat the requirements change, so the best way to be completely informed is to check the regulations. It is always a good idea to wear some kind of floatation device. Anglers fishing from bass boats are used to wearing them. Most boats are equipped with a “kill

Tidal James River • Lake Chesdin

switch”. For the uninformed this is a switch that if thrown shuts off the Here's a nice bass engine. It is usually connected to caught last month the boat driver’s floatation device by by an angler using the new Phoney a cord. Should the cord get yanked Frogs. Photo from and the switch thrown, like if the Surfside Bait & driver falls overboard or gets thrown Tackle. out of the boat, the engine will shut down. Without the motor shutting off outboards typically will turn to the left if the steering wheel releases and will continue to circle left with the possibility of running baits and spinnerbaits with big blades are over whoever is in the water. Inboards perfect for nighttime fishing. Remember no matter what time or how and stern drives if trimmed properly will continue down the body of water leaving dark it is, bass will be located around forage. A very wise man once told me you behind in the boat wake. Lastly it is always a good idea to let the key to catching more fish was not to someone know where you are headed study bass, but to study the prey they to and when you expect to be back, just feed on. Anglers plying the James River for catfish in case. For the bass angler fishing at night can be are reporting fair catches with numerous awesome, especially on a place like Ches- fish in the 30-pound range caught. Large din that tends to be rather busy during the chunks of cut up shad and eels are good day. Bass that will hang out under docks, choices for bait. Areas with current are close to cover, or in deeper water will move good places to start. Bass fishermen are catching good fish shallower and cruise looking for an easy meal during the hours of darkness. Darker but as you would expect they are not lures and lures that make more noise or holding in schools of fish like they might put out stronger vibrations increase the be in a lake. It is more common to catch odds of hooking a decent fish. Topwater a fish here and there instead of sitting in

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36

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

one spot loading the livewell.When you catch a fish it is a good idea to go back in an hour or so and give the spot a try again. Often it doesn’t take long for other fish to replenish a spot. With the finicky fish in the James River anglers often come up with a “milk run” and hit the same spots at different times and tides throughout the day. Debbie at Surfside Bait and Tackle in Mechanicsville says they are wellstocked with the new Zoom LL Mag OL Monster baits. They also have a huge selection of Big Bite Baits, in all the popular colors. Big Bite Baits has been one of the innovators in the industry for the last couple of years and have come out with one winner after another. According to Debbie, they have a good selection of Calcutta T shirts in all sizes for those who like to look good but to be comfortable at the same time. To go along with your newT shirt you might want to pick up a pair or two of Bimini cargo shorts that are on sale for $16.99. There's big news coming out of Green Top Sporting Goods in Glen Allen.... the Gander Mountain store is closing and Green Top is going to move into the building! That's right, GreenTop Sporting Goods is going to evolve again, this time into a huge building visible from Interstate 95. W2 was told the move should be

complete by the last quarter of 2012. Pope’s Bait andTackle in Sandston has a great supply of fresh and saltwater baits. If you are having trouble finding the bait you are looking for when headed for the excellent saltwater fishing we have in Virginia give them a try. It’s not too early to start getting ready for the upcoming hunting season. I enjoy getting out and shooting a box or two of shells every now and then. Bob Moats Sports Shop on Hull St. is a great place to pick up any ammo or supplies you need and to get an update on what is going on in the gun world around our area. Castaway Sporting Goods is a great source of information for what is happening on the James River and the Chickahominy River. They co-host tournaments that go out of both locations and always have up to date information. If you want to step up to tournament

fishing their “team” tournaments are some of the better ones around the area. Their attendance rivals some of the bigger name groups. Chris Wade

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July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

37

REGIONAL FOCUS

For a map of the Chickahominy River or Lake see page 9.

Chickahominy

A blast of summer heat raised water temperatures into the 80s quickly last month, so you’ll want to keep this in mind when fishing in the region. Tidal rivers like the Chickahominy are less affected by hot temperatures, and the fishing actually improves as the summer progresses. If you’ve never been to Chickahominy River and Lake, picture something right out of the old south complete with cypress trees, hundreds of hidden bays and creeks and plenty of aquatic vegetation. It’s the perfect lake and river system to explore with a small boat or kayak. A bass boat makes it even better. July is a great time to visit because there’s something for the entire family. You can fish, swim, relax and then go the nearby Williamsburg attractions and restaurants. Here’s what you can expect for your visit this month as far as the fish,

Conway's River Rat Guide Service Capt. Art Conway

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R

IVERSIDE CAMP

Lake & River

straight from the area fishing camps and tackle shops. Down on the river you’ll want to use Riverside Camp or River’s Rest as your base camp. Riverside Camp is run by the Johncox family and is located about three miles below Walkers Dam, which separates the river and lake. Riverside is the ONLY place on the entire river you can rent a jon boat and motor as well as a kayak. You can also stay riverside in a rental cabin or tent/rv/trailer camp in the riverfront campground. There’s a fine boat ramp, tackle shop and grill, too. Mike Johncox reports excellent bass fishing for visitors recently. There’s a fantastic surface frog bite going on as well as a plastic worm pattern. Both tend to work best around lily pads and hydrilla found in the upper portion of the river. Small Chatterbaits and crankbaits are also worth tossing at the mouths of up river creeks. Plenty of crappie are available in the little creeks near the dam and in Diascund Creek. Try a 1” tube jig about halfway back where you find water

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cabbage growing on the bottom. Further down river, near theThoroughfare, you’ll find River’s Rest Marina, Motel and Blue Heron Restaurant. This is the only motel on the river and it’s a great place to stay when fishing the river. River’s Rest offers a concrete ramp, the best restaurant on the river, clean rooms that overlook the river and great middle Chickahominy River access. Bass fishing in the middle and lower Chickahominy River will revolve around grass this month. Seek out creeks with hydrilla growing in them and fish over them with topwaters and buzzbaits at high tides. Try the edges of the grass at low tide and creek mouths at dead low when it begins to turn around. Duck blinds in creeks like Yarmouth, Shipwreck and Blackstump can also hold concentrations of bass. The back of Morris Creek in the lower river holds plenty of bass in the summer. Access here is good through the Chickahominy Wildlife Management ramp. continued on page 41

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38

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

Eagleson Chickahominy Landing Lake!

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ING FISH KS! A Y A K

1 7:47am 8:24pm 2 8:46am 9:20pm 3 9:43am 10:14pm 4 10:36am 11:05pm 5 11:28am 11:55pm 6 12:18pm ---7 12:42am 1:07pm 8 1:29am 1:55pm 9 2:16am 2:44pm

LOW

1:52am 1:51pm 2:50am 2:50pm 3:44am 3:46pm 4:35am 4:41pm 5:23am 5:34pm 6:10am 6:26pm 6:56am 7:17pm 7:40am 8:09pm 8:25am 9:02pm

HIGH

10 3:04am 3:35pm 11 3:53am 4:27pm 12 4:46am 5:21pm 13 5:40am 6:15pm 14 6:35am 7:07pm 15 7:27am 7:56pm 16 8:16am 8:41pm 17 9:02am 9:23pm 18 9:44am 10:03pm

LOW

N E W

9:10am 9:57pm 9:58am 10:53pm 10:47am 11:50pm 11:39am ---12:45am 12:32pm 1:36am 1:23pm 2:24am 2:11pm 3:07am 2:58pm 3:48am 3:42pm

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August Tides 1

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LOW

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James River All corrections taken from Newport News Chickahominy +4:55 Mt. Airy -0:12 Jordan Point +1:22 Richmond Deepwater Terminal +3:45 Ferry Point +4:25 Wright Island +5:20 Lanexa +1:23 Petersburg +1:57 Richmond City Locks

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HIGH

19 10:26am 10:42pm 20 11:06am 11:21pm 21 11:47am ---22 12:01am 12:29pm 23 12:43am 1:14pm 24 1:28am 2:03pm 25 2:18am 2:58pm 26 3:14am 3:58pm 27 4:16am 5:02pm

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39

REGIONAL FOCUS

For a map of the upper James River see page 9.

Central Virginia The sweet days of summer are in full swing and they bring with them many opportunities to get outside and enjoy all that our region has to offer. We are blessed with a multitude of choices when it comes to rivers, lakes, streams and reservoirs. At our end of June press time Brian “Razor” Bodine of Razorback Guide Service reported that fishing the James has been “pretty good”. Water levels have dropped to just below the four foot average depth mark and very clear. “Fish have been active below ledges and up on the banks,” reports Bodine. “We have been concentrating on wooden structure near deeper holes and creek mouths.” Razor is averaging 30-40 fish per full day trip and has actually had a few in the 40-plus range. “We have been throwing a lot of plastic with finesse worms to find the most action.” Don’t know how to fish the finesse worms? No worries as Bodine notes good success on a Rapala broken-back minnow. Also to note, “the bigger fish have responded well to Case Salty Shads and tubes”. Razorback Guide Service offers their

REGIONAL EDITOR POSITION OPEN For more information on Emotion’s extensive line of fishing kayaks or any other family and recreational kayaks, call Lake Anna Outfitters at 540.894.3540 or visit emotionkayaks.com

540.894.3540 40

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

Charlottesville • Upper James

popular “Businessman’s Special”. Fish with a partner Monday through Thursday evenings leaving the Scottsville Boat Ramp at 5pm and fish until dark for just $150 for two anglers. Bodine knows that an evening on the river is a lot less stressful than chasing a little white ball around the golf course. He reports that many gentlemen end up selling their golf clubs after experiencing an evening of fishing when the top-water bite is on! July is the month for big kitties, too. Catfish anglers know that if you’re going to bring a kid catfishing, this is the time to do it! Kids love reeling in a fighting flathead from the depths of the river and these bottom feeders will bite just about anything. Try live and/or cut bait, liver and even worms. Set out multiple lines with different bait choices and see what works best. Once you know, be sure to use your heavy tackle as James River cats can typically be in the 20-30 pound range. Hunting season will be here before you know it, really it will! Keep your skills up this summer by participating in the various archery shoots that are offered

in our region. High Tech Outdoors & Archery has a 25 yard outdoor shooting range and owner Brecht Sprouse can evaluate your form and give you some pointers so that when your shot really matters you’ll be right on target! You can also see the complete line of BowTech bows for all ages and skill levels. Need practice with your gun? You will be a farmer’s best friend and sharpen your shooting skills if you get permission to go ‘hog hunting on area land. Groundhog hunting is something that many farmers don’t have time for and they are always thankful to have some help getting rid of those pesky holediggers! Woodbrook Sports & Pro Shop has it all when it comes to firearms and hunting gear. You may want to ride over to Montpelier, VA and try out the CentralVirginia Family Archery Shoot which is on the 28th this month. The Hunt n Shak sponsors this family friendly shoot at the exclusive Cavalier Rifle & Pistol Club and word is spreading fast that this is an event not to miss. See our Calendar of Events in the back of the magazine for more information and visit the Hunt n Shak’s

Central Virginia Regional Editor. If you would like to have fun while making extra money in the outdoor field email us at [email protected]. Generous compensation, part time work.

Woodbrook

Sports & Pro Shop 1877 Seminole Trail

Woodbrook Shopping Center, Charlottesville

Archery Supplies Reloading Supplies New & Used Guns Buy, Sell & Trade Gunsmithing Services On Premises Dealer Direct w/ Kimber, Beretta, Benelli, Franchi, Stoeger, Uberti & Sig Arms. Stocking dlr. for Glock and Smith & Wesson.

We Outfit Hunters!

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Over 75 safes in stock!

COMPLETE CUSTOM GUNSMITHING with D&R Gunsmithing - double barrel restoration work - stock making, refinishing, bedding & checkering - hot blueing & slow rust blueing on double barrels - rifle chambering & barrel replacement - professional engraving/ gold & silver inlays - trap & skeet shooter's stock fittings "Now selling fly-tying supplies!" All Repairs & Custom Work Done On Premises

Dominic Rago - American & European w/40 yrs. experience

540 967-1054

329 Berry Lane, Louisa, VA -

follow signs to Small Country Campground

Chickahominy continued from page 39

Wildlife Management ramp. Up on the lake anglers will often fish at night and find aggressive largemouth bass in shallow water. From Eagles Landing comes word that the lake was about 6” down, clear and in the mid-80s. There are tournaments out of Eagles Landing just about every week. Check our Calendar of Events for dates.This fish camp has a concrete launching ramp, live bait, great tackle shop, outboard repairs and jon boat/motor rentals.   Ed Allen’s Boats & Bait is located on the lake just up from Walkers Dam. This facility is part of the Allen family business that includes Ed Allen Campground. You can camp in a tent, RV, trailer, pop-up or rent a cabin at this wooded sanctuary along the shores of the lake and take your meals at the Lakeside Restaurant. Ed Allen’s Boats & Bait has a fleet of jon boats and motors for rent, plus a fine boat ramp, while the campground has four rental kayaks – two tandems and two single sit-ins for fishing and exploring. While you are in the area, you’ll want to stop by Absolute Outdoors. This is a fishing and hunting shop located on the north side of I-64, about five miles from Providence Forge with some truly inspired ideas inside. Besides carrying shotguns, rifles, handguns, assault and personal protection items, fishing gear, live and frozen baits, black powder and archery stuff, Absolutely Outdoors has a two-chair barber shop inside! This shop is close to five rivers – the Chick, James, Mattaponi, Pamunkey andYork and offers everything you’d need for hunting. They even have Emotion kayaks – aTemptation sit-on-top, a Stealth fishing sit-on-top and a Glide Angler sit-in. Headhunters Headquarters at Little Creek Park is now open weekdays from 7 am to 8 pm and Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6 am. to 8 pm. The water temp is 83 degrees with 14 feet of visibility. Small bass are holding on shoreline cover and some topwater action can be hade early and late. For the most action go deep. Ledges, humps and points are  holding fish at 15 to 20’ depths. Striper are holding on those same points in the North end of the lake most were caught on herring. As the water heats up the fish are still there you have to slow down and fish deeper. Headhunters has rental kayaks, jonboats and electric motors. Both Adam's Sports Mart and Haupt's Country Store welcome your visit to the region this month. Use them for fuel, food

Favorite Adventures

continued from page 21

we had a ball. We started out with some red hot dove shooting, then did some bass fishing, retired to the immaculately restored log cabin lodge on the property and then enjoyed touring the acreages and shooting stands for deer and turkey. I wish had more time to spent down there. The nice thing about Tall Oak Farms is that you can reserve any one of the six properties for all kinds

of hunting. It’s like having your own hunt club! Hetzel will have dove shoots on Saturdays in September, so call or email him ASAP if you want to participate. 336.504.5247. [email protected]. Maine Grouse Hunt

You'll find even more of our Favorite Adventures at

www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com

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434.923.9305 or visit www.razorbackguideservice.com

25-yard Outdoor Shooting Range!

High Tech Outdoors & Archery LIVE BAIT AMMO, GUNS Gunsmith (off premises) FULL SERVICE ARCHERY DEALER NEW & USED GUNS • GAME CHECKING STATION FEDERAL & WINCHESTER AMMO ic Featuring the Largest Selection Now, a Grayline Bait lectr ay E for R of ZOOM plastics in the area! Tank Dealer! r le Dea

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KNOX FORT SAFES

New Location: 3688 Richmond Rd., Charlottesville, VA, next to Easton Furniture July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

41

REGIONAL FOCUS

For a map of Lake Anna see page 9.

Lake Anna

A brief foreshadowing of summer last month has raised water temperatures to near 90 degrees in some parts of Lake Anna. July is when we often experience the hottest water of the year on Anna and that tends to make fishing predictable. Here’s what to except during a July visit and some news from around the lake. Guide C.C. McCotter notes striper were dispersing from the Rt. 208 region by the end of June. Some went down lake and others went up. There are so many striper in Anna now, it’s difficult not to bump into them during a day of fishing. Areas they should be in this month include fromThe Splits up to the mouth of Plentiful Creek, The Splits up to Rose Valley and down around Dike I to the mouth of Sturgeon Creek. Some might also linger in the 208 region. In July McCotter and his Associate

NEW BRIDGE

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Guides will be This happy group of young using a vari- anglers fished out of High Point Marina and came back with ety of tactics a nice bunch of stripers with to put clients on fish includ- MLAGS Associate Guide John Chadduck. ing vertically jigging Toothache spoons, live bait on down lines, even some trolling of deep diving plugs with bucktail or grub droppers and umbrella rigs. A good depth finder is critical when striper fishing Anna in the summer. The Lowrance Elite 5x and Mark 5x are good choices and available from Anna’s Marine Center. Go big and opt for the new Lowrance HDS Gen 2 units that offer 3D views of the lake bottom and side scanning so you can track schools of fish. If you want to learn the art of deep water fishing, July is the right month. Largemouth bass are biting crankbaits in the upper North Anna and Pamunkey

McCotter s Lake Anna Guide Service "Let's go get some bass, striper and crappie this summer!" C.C. McCotter

19 Years Guiding on Lake Anna

75 Edgewood Dr., Mineral, VA 23117

Kayak Sales & Rentals

new mini golf

540.894.9144

www.mccotterslakeanna.com Check out our daily catches & videos at www.mccotterslakeanna.blogspot.com

For fishing reports, directions and photos go to highpointmarina.com

High Point Marina We have all your fishing needs... The Lighthouse Inn

540 895.5249

Call 540.894.3540 for info located at High Point Marina

Dickinson's Country Store

Where Lake Anna Hunters & Anglers Go!

VISIT OUR NEW BEER CAVE!!! Come On In And Try Our New Coffee Bar & Deli Menu Premium Dealer Open Early & Late For LKA WEAR

Striper & Bass Lures, At the 208 Bridge Guides, Launching, Tackle, Gas, Lake Anna's ONLY Waterfront Motel! Retailer for Live Bait, Boat Slips, Boat Parking • Electric hookups Dry Storage l Color T V • Telephone • Private Patio LKA Ethano WEAR Refrigerator and Microwave FREE Gas! & Tournament Facilities

Your Convenience Deli - Fuel - Groceries - ATM - 24hr Fuel

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5072 Zachary Taylor Hwy. • Corner of 208 & 522

Call 540.895.5249 for reservations

42

Branch sections of the lake. Small plugs that dive 10-15’ are ideal like the Bandit 100 or Rapala DT series selection. Find points that touch the channel and there should be rocks. Scrape the rocks with your bait and you’ll have a good chance to catch a bass or two. You can also deep water worm in the lower up lake region using a shaky head and a six-inch straight tail worm. The extreme upper ends of the lake are worth checking this month as the water is cooler and still flowing there. Pitching jigs, worms and spinnerbaits is what you do for this pattern.

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

540.894.5769

McCotter's Lake Anna Guide Service's Associate Guide John Hutchins put these clients on a 30-bass day. All fish were released after the

From High Point Marina comes word of the Friday NightTournament Season. It began June 1 and will run through August. After two weeks (the first week was cancelled due to thunderstorms) the team of Hawkins and Theis are leading with 29.35 pounds. Larry Wollersheim and Preston Cox are second with 28.76 pounds, followed by the team of Villa/ Gibson with 28.11. The team of David Chisholm and Wilson Bradley won the week of June 8 with five bass weighing 15.93 pounds. Villa and Gibson won the week of June 15 with 15.54 pounds. This event averages 42 teams per week, so it’s very competitive. Check www. highpointmarina.com for weekly results and standings. High Point Marina has obtained an exclusive run of Cotton Cordell deep diving redfins in color #917, silver sides, light blue back and yellow belly. This was the #1 selling trolling lure until it was discontinued accidently some years back. High Point will have them in July so stop by and check them out! Over at Anna Point Marina the Tuesday Night Tournaments commenced in May and will run through August. Sunday morning tournaments are also underway at APM. Dave Fauntleroy and Chris Craft have the Fish Tales shop looking great heading into the height of the summer season.There’s a good selection of bass gear like Paycheck Repo Mans, Castaic swimbaits, Scrounger heads, deep diving crankbaits of all sorts, plus towables, marine parts/supplies and the full line of LKA Wear. Sturgeon Creek Marina’s next Youth Series event will be held August 15. Make plans now to fish with your son or daughter and spend a fun day on the water together.

Family Owned & Operated Since 1963

540 967.0470 www.lakeanna-va.com

Located on Main St., Louisa, not far from Lake Anna

Formerly The Shore Store @ Anna Point Marina

Lake Anna's Fishing Headquarters We Are Ready For The Exciting 2012 Fishing Season With A Great Selection Of The Hottest New Fishing Tackle CCBASSN Lake Anna Guide Service 540.894.6195 Pick Up Location for McCotter's Lake Anna Guide Service 540.894.9144

Damiki • Burton Baits

Dave's Tournament Tackle Great JJ's Magic Scent • Izorline selection of Pay Check Bait's Repo Man LKA apparel Topwater Rattling Lures Stick Jacket Rod Covers and Toothache Spoons souvenirs Crazy Blades

Lew's Rod & Reel Combos!

Lucky Craft Jerkbaits Captain Gary's Marine Care Products

EXPANDED SELECTION OF ... Gary Loomis Signature Series Rods & Team Lew's Reels

540.895.5900

www.annapoint.com

e-mail: [email protected]

continued on page 44

13721 Anna Point Lane, Mineral, VA 23117 July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

43

Lake Anna Report Sturgeon Creek’s website, www.sturgeoncreekmarina.com has more tournament dates and fishing pics for you to review, plus an extensive tournament listing. This marina has a large fleet of pontoon boats for rent and for sale, the new line of Prince Craft fishing boats, Evinrude and Mercury outboards and a great tackle shop, as well as non-ethanol gasoline on the water and off. It is the only marina on the lake with a 24hr. fueling. Dee Kidd from Anna’s Marine Center wanted to thank his customers for an ex- Congratulations to Dean and Trey Perrin who won cellent spring season. His TRACKER and the Sturgeon Creek Marina Elite Series May 20 Nitro sales were the best in several years. event with this 18.62 -pound limit of largemouths

Now that it’s pontoon and pleasure boating season the Bennington and SunTRACKER pontoons at Anna’s Marine Center are also top-sellers on the lake. It is with sadness we note the passing of Ed Whitlock, patriarch of the Whitlock family and the creator of Louisa Boat & Motor. Ed was an excellent fisherman that loved to jig and troll Anna. His knowledge of the lake was vast and he spent many years trying to figure out how to consistently catch walleye from Anna. He will be missed by many anglers, but not by many fish! Christine McCotter

anchored by a 7.46 pounder.

Minnows • Bait • Tackle

2012 NITRO Z8 IS HERE!

Hellems & Son Sporting Goods Feed & Seed

Serving the upper end of the Lake Anna community and Blue Ridge Shores

We have a FULL line of Parker Bows & Crossbows, T.C., Traditions & CVA Muzzleloaders, Leupold & Nikon Optics & Summit Treestands, plus a complete line of archery supplies

AMERICA's BEST VALUE IN FISHING BOATS! TRACKER Pro 175

SUPER DEALS ON REMAINING 2011 MODELS!

Anna's Marine Center formerly Anna Point Boat Sales

Rt. 208, Lake Anna • 540.894.9222

Sales: [email protected] Service: [email protected] Visit our website for current inventory!

www.annasmarinecenter.com

44

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

Hunting Season Specials GPS Dog Tracking System

Garmin Astro DC 40 Collar - $220 Garmin Astro DC 40 Unit & Collar - $609

Hunter's Special

Dog Food

Purchase Any SunGlo Collar... Regular Collar $6.95 •Reflective Collar $8.95 And Get A FREE Name Plate!

540.967.2364

4948 Ellisville Dr., Louisa

Fishing Guides • Rental Pontoons • Boat Slips • Boat Storage • Fuel • Tackle Shop • Boat Repairs

Sturgeon C reek Marina Celebrating 40 Years of leadership... SALES & RENTALS OF PONTOON & FISHING BOATS!!

RENT A PONTOON BOAT FROM US THIS SUMMER!

Pontoons & Tritoons Available in 19'-30'

NEW FOR 2012 ... Pro 165 Models!

2012 Tournament Schedule August

Wednesday 15

Lake Anna Youth/Adult Series

540-895-5095

You can see our complete calendar at our website.

Parts & Service For...

• Pay At The Pump Fuel On The Water • Covered On The Water Boat Slips • Lake's Largest Boat Launching Facility • Separate Jetski Launch Ramp • On & Off-The-Water Boat Storage • Marine & Trailer Parts • Boat & Motor Service • Tackle Shop

AsYou Can See We're Ready For Any Season!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Give Us A Call At 540.895.5095

www.sturgeoncreekmarina.com 5107 Courthouse Road Spotsylvania, Va. 22551

July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

45

REGIONAL FOCUS

For a map of the Tidal Potomac River see page 9.

Potomac River The water in the tidal Potomac is clearer and the grass well-established in the southern part of the river, basically south of Dogue. The wrecks and concrete in Spoils, Fox Ferry, the point known as North Point on Smoot Bay (National Harbor) and South Point are pretty much now always loaded with fish. Groups of bass are on docks in Dogue Creek, Broad Creek, Mount Vernon and Swan. Otherwise anglers should just fish grass patterns from Greenway Flats on south. You go to main river grass early, before big boats come through and look for clear water. One of the keys for fishing the river this month is to focus on scattered grass away from the hard grass edge. Try pitching Mizmo green pumpkin tubes with copper flake or Arkansas Craw, Texas-rigged on a 3/0 Mustad Ultra

Anglers Point tube hook. Pitch, then shake slowly, watching your line, feeling around the region will for weight. If you prefer fishing hard miss Steve Bradcover, docks, letdowns, riprap, etc are shaw who passed also good targets now. Remember to away last month. stop your bait for long periods… five Photo courtesy of seconds or more, because fish have Sportsman's been hitting when sitting still or right when the bait comes over cover. As Marine Center. baits drop, get ready for bites. You can also now crank hard cover drops with deep diving crankbaits Split shot Work black/blue or black/brown jigs in rigs work in the same deeper areas. Stay with 10-pound test GAMMA Copoly. A stained water and green pumpkin where 3/16-ounceWater Gremlin Bullshot bullet– water is clearer. For trailers, use Black/ shaped split shot comes through cover. Blue or green pumpkin orange. Swim jigs GAMMA Edge Fluorocarbon lines help you and 5-inch Mizmo tubes in white, black/ feel bites and get baits down faster. Rig blue, black/brown at various depths, just stickworms like Mann’s HardNose Freefall below the surface to out of sight on grass worm soaked in garlic Jack’s Juice on a 3/0 edges and drop. The topwater bite is strong around Mustad Ultra Point Mega Lite hook. grass and wood. Walking baits like Lucky

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46

MOTORGUIDE TROLLING MOTORS!!!

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woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

703.799.1621

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

6:35am 7:15pm 7:33am 8:12pm 8:28am 9:06pm 9:22am 9:58pm 10:14am 10:50pm 11:05am 11:40pm 11:56am ---12:30am 12:47pm 1:21am 1:40pm

12:39am 1:52pm 1:44am 2:48pm 2:45am 3:41pm 3:42am 4:32pm 4:37am 5:20pm 5:29am 6:06pm 6:21am 6:51pm 7:12am 7:35pm 8:04am 8:18pm

10 2:13am 2:35pm 11 3:06am 3:31pm 12 3:59am 4:28pm 13 4:52am 5:24pm 14 5:44am 6:17pm 15 6:33am 7:07pm 16 7:19am 7:54pm 17 8:02am 8:36pm 18 8:42am 9:16pm

8:57am 9:01pm 9:51am 9:45pm 10:46am 10:32pm 11:41am 11:23pm 12:34pm ---12:16am 1:25pm 1:08am 2:12pm 1:59am 2:57pm 2:47am 3:39pm

NEW

1

FULL

Craft’s Gunfish are great when water is clear and you have cloud cover. Buzzbaits with black skirts have been working when water is lower over grass and around shallow wood and rock cover. Try 1/4-ounce size with a clacker like Mann’s Classic Buzzbait. The hollow frog bite is awesome whenever the water is low…better with some light! Punch through grass with a Premiere Pro Tungsten ¾ -1 ounce weight on 65-pound test Spiderwire and a stout 7’6” rod like the Quantum Tommy Biffle Signature series has power to pull them out. Look for hydrilla with stalks of milfoil growing in it. Pitch, shake and let drop. Most fish hit on the drop. Mann’s HardNose craws stay on the hook and a drop of PRO’S Soft Bait glue secures the Premiere Pro Tungsten weight to the bait, so I don’t have to peg. This tactic works best on sunny calm days! Did you know that Hoyt Archery is offering a $50 rebate on Rampage bows purchased through October 1, 2012? These hot, new bows are normally $599, so you can either pocket the rebate or get some accessories otherwise not in the budget. B&B Archery in Manassas is your area Hoyt dealer. They also have recurve bows for sale that can be outfitted to also serve as bowfishing rigs. Robert Bowe at Bowes & Arrows near Ft. Belvior is a bowfishing devotee. His annual Skate Smash was held last month and we’ll have the results in our August edition. If you still want to keep drawing and firing your bow at quarry, consider bowfishing this summer. There are plenty of snakeheads, carp and gar in the tidal Potomac River for you to target. Bowe will be happy to set you up. Another area shop offering a popular bit of gear is Sportsman Marine Center inWoodbridge.This shop sells and installs the Power Pole anchoring system as well as the Minn Kota Talon version. Sportsman Marine is also a Lowrance and Humminbird dealer and installer, so if you want to upgrade your electronics, give them a call. Lastly, Steve Bradshaw succumbed to cancer last month after a fiercethree year battle. He LOVED fishing and enjoyed fishing with his friends and family. Thanks for the smiles,

19 9:19am 9:52pm 20 9:55am 10:27pm 21 10:33am 11:03pm 22 11:13am 11:43pm 23 11:58am ---24 12:26am 12:46pm 25 1:15am 1:40pm 26 2:09am 2:41pm 27 3:08am 3:48pm

3:33am 4:18pm 4:17am 4:56pm 5:01am 5:33pm 5:46am 6:10pm 6:33am 6:48pm 7:24am 7:29pm 8:21am 8:16pm 9:23am 9:10pm 10:28am 10:12pm

28 4:13am 4:56pm 29 5:19am 6:01pm 30 6:22am 7:02pm

11:34am 11:22pm 12:36pm ---12:31am 1:35pm

August Tides 7:21am 7:57pm 8:17am 8:50pm 9:09am 9:40pm

1 2

1:34am 2:29pm 2:33am 3:20pm 3:28am 4:08pm

Tides for Chain Bridge, one mile below DC.

Sportsman Marine

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Our in-store Hooter Shooter can perfectly tune your bow. 9114 Mathis Ave., Manassas Shopping Center 703.335.6320 July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

47

REGIONAL FOCUS

Lake Moomaw

July means fireworks, watermelons, cookouts and summer heat. Fishing is slowing down some but boating activity and recreational sports are on the increase with water temperature being around 79 degrees at Lake Moomaw. By the Fourth of July all campgrounds should be open with new restroom facilities on the upper end of Lake Moomaw. The past several weeks the lake has produced some nice brown trout in the four to seven-pound range. The most successful anglers are trolling small spoons in 12-30’ and fishing native baitfish on downlines. Yellow perch activity in the lake picked up slightly with a few citation fish being taken and occasional schools of smaller fish being located. Moomaw’s largemouth and smallmouth bass are in the summer patterns with most of the action coming on jigs and worms

Puff’s BBQ & Deli

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On the Corner of Rt 39 & 42 Millboro

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SHOP HOURS: M-F 10a-8p. Sat: 9a-3p

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1105 Laurel Hill Rd., Verona, VA 24482

48

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

Highland, Bath & Augusta Counties

fished deep or after dark. Some largemouth linger in the upper end where the cooler water of the Jackson River enter the lake. Channel catfish should make a strong appearance this month as well as some filleting size bluegill that have been providing some great action all day long. Water levels are still holding up fairly well on Moomaw at about two foot below full pool at the time of this report. Thanks to recent thunderstorms lake and stream levels throughout the area are holding up fairly well. Trout stockings have stopped for the spring but area trout streams should be holding some fish. Caution should be used in catching and releasing trout during the hot months of the year in lakes and streams. The Jackson River above and below Gathright Dam offers visitors some

WARM SPRINGS INN LODGING & RESTAURANT

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Access to Lake Moomaw & Jackson River WiFi & Satellite TV All rooms have private bath Some w/micro fridge & mircowave

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email: [email protected]

12968 Sam Snead Hwy., Warm Springs, VA 24484

Lake Moomaw Marina, LLC

Your One-Stop Shop!

Craigsville Complete line of deli items available - hot & cold

We're the only fully stocked Nite Light dealer in the area!

Game & Bear Check Station

Groceries - Gas - VA Lotto - Hunting & Fishing Licenses - Tackle - Guns & Ammo Rt. 42 Craigsville, VA 24430

(540) 997-5011

Open: M-Thurs. 8-8, Fri. & Sat. 8-9, Sun 10-7

Guided Fishing TRIPS ON LAKE MOOMAW

Deer Turkey Bear

Located on the upper end of the lake at Bolar Flats!

Gas, Boat Rentals, Dry Storage for Campers & Boats, Live Bait, Camping & Fishing Supplies & Grocery Items Open 7 Days A Week GAME CHECKING STATION

540

of the best trout fishing in Virginia. The Hidden Valley fly fishing only stretch above the lake is a great place to trek into and camp at this month. The Jackson below the dam down to Covington is full of rainbow trout now. You can wade or float certain sections accessed by VDIGF-owned access points. Irvin Miller of Millers Fishing Pond in Stuarts Draft, Virginia says the water temperature stays cold year round and fishing is always good. So gather up a load of young folks and introduce them to pond trout fishing. This sure beats reruns on TV and tastes a lot better too. There have been numerous bear sightings at Lake Moomaw this year so keep your groceries in a safe place and put your trash in the dumpster. Check out all the other great US Forest camping facilities throughout the Alleghany Highlands including

279-4144

with Maple Tree Outdoors

Call 540.468.2682

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www.mapletreeoutdoors.com

7738 Big Valley Rd., Bolar, VA 24484

REGIONAL FOCUS

For maps of the mountain region see page 9.

Shenandoah Valley Shenandoah anglers have noted fishing in the river has been spotty until recently. I floated two days in a row from Port Republic to Island Ford and Island Ford to Elkton at the end of May. We caught some encouragingbass, both largemouth and smallmouth. The water temperature at the time (early June) was still a little cold, I think. The Shenandoah should be coming into prime season now with water temperatures in the upper 70’s and clear. You’ll catch plenty of fish using small stickbaits like a 3” Case Magic Stick or a Jack’s Worm rigged wacky style with a small insert weight in one end. Topwater fishing is also good in the morning and evenings. The fly fishing is excellent now, too. The annual Shenandoah River Rodeo will be held July 14, once again at the

Low Water Bridge Campground near Check out C.L. Bentonville. You can camp, enjoy a caWill and his son tered BBQ dinner, music, dancing and Chase with a river float with some of the region’s his very first top smallmouth guides. Shenandoah bass, caught Riverkeeper Jeff Kelble has been a on a white vigilant steward of the lake and at rooster tail this event you can show your thanks. fishing Lake Tickets are $40 at the door and $30 Shenandoah. at www.shenandoahriverkeeper.org/ rodeo. Bring your family and camp along the river bank. Float down to Andy Guest State Park and have the to turn on for catfish as they have staff at Low Water Campground bring come off spawn and water temperayou back up river. tures increase. As of June 15th lakes and streams Dubby Carr at Dubby’s in Harrithat are designated stocked trout sonburg has the River Rock Baits and streams can now be fished without the Helgripede is an excellent choice a trout stamp. This will continue until st for the river as it looks very much October 1 when water levels permitlike a hellgramite. Dubby’s is the area ting, stocking will resume. Some of headquarters for firearms and Airsoft. these areas actually have excellent If you need ammo, scope or a special catfish populations. July should start order, stop by and Dubby will place it for you. He also carries a full line of Airsoft guns. Bowfishing is in fullext. Hunting • Fishing • Live Bait 540.337.2941 100 Licenses • Check Station General Sporting Goods 540.896.9991 112 Mason St., Broadway, VA

Live Bait located about 2 miles past Swift Run Gap on Rt. 33

BAR-B-Q Ranch

EXPANDED MENU ITEMS • BBQ PORK BREAKFAST/LUNCH/DINNER ITEMS

Call in orders welcome

540/298-9826

Miller's Fish-

Trout Fishing, Pay-By-The-Inch Live Bait - Minnows - Worms Tinkling Spring Rd. Stuart's Draft, VA Exit 91 off I-64

540-434-3296

Family Restaurant & Caterer

Open Mon. - Thurs. 11 am - 8 pm Fri. - Sat. 11 am - 10:30 pm • Sun. Noon - 9 pm

Highway 11, North, Harrisonburg, VA

Where You Go In Harrisonburg For Fishing AND Hunting Gear!

2575 Stuarts Draft Hwy. Stuarts Draft,VA

We now accept VISA and MASTERCARD et Range 40 3D Targ tion! at our loca

Nail's Full Line of Archery Supplies

SALE on Oneida & Parker Bows!

Full Stock of Parker Bows

IBO Pro Shop, Easton ACC Arrows, Dealer for Oneida Eagle and Parker Bows Indoor

20-Yard Range!

Custom-made rustic

Low Water Bridge

Game Checking Station

VALLEY LAND

www.acemarineva.com

Call 540/888-3945

540.480.7641

Hardware/Convenience Store

Sport Boats & Personal Watercraft Powered By

WELCOME HUNTERS!

HOT BREAKFAST & LUNCH TO GO Plus... Delicious Daily Specials!

We OFFER FULL farm & auto TIRE SERVICE & SALES Rt. 259 • Fulks Run,Va. • 540/896-8828

We have the biggest selection of bass fishing gear in the Valley!

Game Checking Station

Open 10-7 T-Th., 10-6 F and 8-5 Sat.

Buying, Selling & Trading New & Used Guns

Hornaday Zombie Max .45, .308, .223 & .40 cal.

540.574.3474

100 Waterman Dr., Harrisonburg, VA 22802

Campground

(540) 635-7277

On The Shenandoah River

lowwaterbridgecampground.com

192 Panhandle Rd., Bentonville, VA 22610 July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

49

REGIONAL FOCUS

Smith Mountain Lake

For a map of Smith Mountain Lake see page 7.

Striper fishing has been inconsistent so far on Smith Mountain Lake. This is probably influenced by the warmer than normal temperatures experienced this past winter. The huge striper surface breaks, a pattern many look forward to each year in the spring, have been noticeably absent. These breaks normally follow the striper false spawn each year as the stripers chase baitfish to the surface to feed aggressively after spawning. The striper “topwater night bite” has been spotty as well with the shad often coming to the shoreline late and not saying up as long as usual. In the mid lake area the alewives haven’t been moving up to the shoreline in significant numbers until around 11:00 p.m. Many anglers fishing for bass and stripers at night are finding both species are hitting soft plastics and crankbaits as well or better than the traditional topwater jerkbaits (Storm Thunderstick, F-18 Rapala, Cordell Redfin, LC Pointer) and chuggers.   Striper fishing continues to be mixed during the day and has proven to be

The

tough at times. Many of the stripers that were in the lower lake a month ago have moved out and headed further upstream into the middle sections of the lake and have moved down in the water column. Live bait anglers continue to catch stripers pulling nose-hooked live shad on shot lines behind planer boards and floats with their trolling motor. Anglers are also having success presenting shad and alewives on downlines in areas where balls of baitfish and stripers are found using electronic fish finders. As the water temperatures continue to rise and the stripers move deeper in the lake the downline bite will become more prevalent. A few anglers are reporting success catching stripers and catfish fan casting points with cut bait from an anchored boat. If you do not have cast nets and all the equipment needed to catch and keep shad healthy and active, you can also use the shiners available in one of the local tackle shops. If healthy when purchased, they are hearty baits requiring far less equipment to keep alive and active than do the alewives or gizzard

TACKLE BOX Full Line Tackle Shop

Featuring ZOOM baits • IZOR Line • Frogg Toggs • Plus, Rod & Reel Repair On Site! Minnows, Worms & Goldfish

We have Bass Pro fishing & boating products & ordering.

434.239.1710

Marvin & Jean Ponton

New River Valley

shad and they have accounted for a number of nice stripers.   Striper fishermen and women continue to report success trolling with umbrella rigs (U-rigs), three-way rigs, soft plastic swimbaits and individual diving crank and jerkbaits. A number of live bait anglers also pull one or more lures behind their boats while searching for stripers with their electronics. For years one of the most experienced striper guides at the lake has caught stripers on two small bucktails rigged on a “tandem rig” and pulled behind his boat while looking for fish. Anglers have found that the “Donkey Rig” with belly weighted EWG hooks and flukes or small bucktails (with small, curl tail trailers) is another effective rig that can be cast as well as trolled successfully. If you need a little help with these rigs, just stop by your favorite tackle shop for a little assistance or look them up on the Internet. I encourage you to try rigging one on a medium-heavy bait casting rod and reel and putting it out behind your boat in a rod holder the next time you are riding around looking for fish.

Exceptional Hunting/Habitat Management Products

Credit Cards Accepted

519 Crowell Lane • Lynchburg, VA 24502 Visit The Tackle Box Grill for delicious sandwiches!

Scout Cameras

Land Management

Capture Outdoors, LLC 434.664.7163

Captain John Goyne's

Full Service Archery Pro Shop Hunting / Fishing / Guns / Muzzleloaders 35-yd, indoor archery range Big Game Check Station www.ogdenoutdoors.net

434.946.0002

207 South Main St., Amherst, VA 24521 50

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

SML STRIPER FISHING IS GREAT!

Stone Mountain Guide Service on Smith Mountain Lake!

Guiding for Largemouth & Striped Bass Using Only Artificial Lures

540.297.6898 or 434.665.6042 Beginners Welcome!

Full time, resident USCG licensed guides with 37+ plus combined years of experience. Two completely equipped 22ft. deck boats Accommodating parties of up to 6 each. All equipment provided, plus photos of the day's catch & your fish filleted/packaged. WATERFRONT VACATION RENTALS!

540.297.5611 [email protected] www.spikesprimetimefishin.com

Who’s Who Of W2 numerous awards for design and writing. When he’s not in the office, McCotter can be found on Lake Anna where he has guided for the past 19 years. He greatly enjoys kayak fishing, wilderness hiking and bird hunting, especially when he’s able to do so with his wife, daughter and son. [email protected] Chrissie McCotter Managing Editor and Regional Editor for Central Virginia and Lake Anna, Chrissie has been with W2 since 2000. She’s also the Editor’s Assistant come production week and makes certain we don’t make more mistakes! She is a runner and completed several half marathons. Other interests include hiking, boating and the beach. [email protected] Toby J. Newcomb Toby Newcomb was born in Virginia, and other than college and few years thereafter, Newcomb has lived in southside Virginia. He grew up in Chase City, Virginia and spent time as a teenager playing baseball, basketball, golf and fishing. He attended Longwood College and graduated in 1998. Once he graduated, Newcomb was introduced to river fishing for smallmouth bass by a good friend, and it has been a passion ever since. Newcomb resides very near Buggs Island Lake and has fished it regularly for largemouth, catfish and striper since he was a child. He says he is very fortunate to be in a work situation that allows him to fish most weekends in some capacity and also allows him to take many overnight river trips each year. His focus the last couple of years has been seeking out larger smallmouth bass all year, locating and catching smallmouth in winter, and winter striper fishing. tnewcomb@smokeandfireprevention. com Mike Puffenbarger Highlands Regional Editor, Mike Puffenbarger is a hunting guide, fishing guide, farmer, maple syrup baron, caterer, gourmet chef and fine author of our monthly Lake Moomaw Regional Focus and his Game Prepa-

continued from page 31

ration column. His Highland County point of view puts everything in perspective and reminds us of the importance of family and our connection to the land. [email protected] Ryan Rogers Is a Coast Guard licensed Captain that runs charters on the Chesapeake Bay and writes our monthly Catchoftheday column on his adventures and observations. Fishing is his life and his parties are full of adventure and camaraderie. He provides instruction and anecdotal examples for an entertaining visit to the Northern Neck each month. [email protected] Chris Wade Wade is W2’s Richmond Regional Editor and took up his post in late 2011. He’s an accomplished tournament angler that has fished all over Virginia and beyond. He was once a camera operator for a major fishing show, a free-lance outdoor writer, an award-winning body builder and world traveler. Today, his resides in the Richmond area, fishing club tournaments and compiling the information for W2. [email protected]

NEW RIVER FISHING TRIPS OVERNIGHT TRIPS • CABIN RENTALS MOUNTAIN BIKING • FISHING from Drift Boats, Kayaks, Rafts, Canoes and Paddle Boards!

"I hope to see you on the river this season!" - Shawn Hash

TANGENT OUTFITTERS

for more information on trips go to:

www.tangentoutfitters.com

540-731-5202

16503 Booker T. Wash. Hwy., Suite D (lower level) Moneta, VA 24121

Lowrance, Hunting & Garmin, Cannon Fishing Supplies & Humminbird Boat/Kayak/ Sales & Install Tube Rentals Authorized Service Center

NEW LOCATION: 5200 Burnt Chimney Rd. Wirtz, VA 24184

[email protected]

540-719-1549

www.smithmountainmarine.com

New Boat Launch Home of Boats & Rv's FOR SALE By Owners.

NOW OPEN 24/7 TO THE PUBLIC!! Wash and Vac, too!

We have 43 buyers. We need boats!

Smith Mountain Lake Boatyard

540 297.7070

Near Hales Ford Bridge!

16700 Moneta Rd., Moneta, VA 24121

www.smithmountainlakeboatyard.com July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

51

OUTDOOR SERVICES DIRECTORY HUNTING LODGES/ OUTFITTERS GUARANTEED ELK, BEAR & DEER TAGS Openings available for 2012! Elk • Black Bear • Mule Deer • Grizzlies Whitetails • Mt. Goat • Mt. Lion • Wolf Moose • Big Horn Sheep Guided big game hunts on over 1,400 sq. mi. in the heart of British Columbia's Rocky Mts. For info contact Neil Clatterbuck, owner/agent at 775/851-5080 or 540/421-9777 or email us at [email protected]

REEL REPAIR You Can Mail-In Or Drop Off Your Reels!

R

EEL REPAIR & CLEANING 11084 Rockville Rd., Rockville, VA 23146

UPHOLSTERY REPAIR FOR ALL YOUR UPHOLSTERY NEEDS! BOAT, TRUCK OR CAR....

Parrish's Auto Upholstery 804.516.0197 Serving Central Virginia Since 1987

SPECIALTY TACKLE White Marsh Bait Company

Be a chummer this summer and try our new Dry Pelletized Chum. Made with Menhaden fish & Menhaden oil. No more mess or stink will be on your boat!

Look for our line of liquid attractants including; shrimp, squid, bunker, shad, crawfish, cheese, anise & garlic.They make lures smell & taste real!

For the nearest retailer call 410/256-3157

Call 540/894-5960 to learn how to put your outdoor business here! TAXIDERMISTS Now Accepting Deer! NTA Member

Committed to Quality and Professional Excellence

RAPALEE TAXIDERMY Since 1970

Ph/Fax 804-457-4138 Visit our Showroom

email: [email protected] 804.749.3786 shop 804.387.5564

Island Rod & Cleaning and Repair on

Fresh & Saltwater Reels Line Respooling • Custom Rods & Rod Repairs

Custom Gunsmithing, Inc. CUSTOM RIFLES • HANDGUN ACTION JOBS BLUEING • BELGIUM BLUEING SIGHT & SCOPE MOUNTING • GENERAL REPAIR CUSTOM FIBERGLASS STOCKS • ENGRAVING

"Craftsmanship with Pride"

John Myer, Certified Gunsmith

(540) 837-2598

11876 Lord Fairfax Hwy. Boyce, VA 22620

RV/CAMPER REPAIRS

[email protected] • 804.725.2602

804/798-1433

• Service and repairs to all types of recreational vehicles • On-site repairs • Parts & Accessories 12297 Washington Hwy., Ashland, VA 23005

[email protected]

www.rvserviceofva.com

MARINE REPAIRS drop off or mail in

Larry's Rod & Reel Repair FREDERICKSBURG, VA

clean/service/repair all brands rod repairs/restoration

540.419.3896

[email protected]

TROLLING MOTORS

MOTORGUIDE SUPER CENTER

Virginia Trolling Motor Services, LLC 804.233.6726

3502 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Richmond, VA 23234

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July July2012 2012 52 woodsandwatersmagazine.com 52

AMISS

MARINE

Repair & Restorations

Specializing in Fiberglass Boat Repair & Refinishing MAKE YOUR OLD BOAT LOOK NEW!

Insurance & warranty work welcome

804-769-8807

call toll-free 1-877-231-6847

ON 360 EAST, 2 MILES EAST OF RT. 30 IN AYLETT, VA

4975 River Road West Goochland, VA 23063

www.rapaleetaxidermy.com

GUN WORK

Shimano

VA State Licensed

Located in Catlett, VA 540.788.1323 • 540.272.6610

Licensed with 30 yrs. experi-

LABAN'S TAXIDERMY We do fish replicas!!! Game animals & saltwater fish, too!

6-10 wk turnaround time

540.967-0980 or 703.314-7228 175 Scott Lane, Louisa, VA 23093

Jim's Taxidermy

25 Years Experience

mounts

er Fish • Big Game • Birds De a specialty! 703.497-2919 [email protected]

Conveniently located for drop-off in Woodbridge.

ADVENTURE TAXIDERMY

Where Taxidermy Is Our Passion... Not Just A Job! 3688 Richmond Rd., Keswick, VA www.adventuretaxidermy.net 434-244-5622

Creative Wildlife Taxidermy

State & Fed Lic. Birds, Deer, Fish Big Game

2277 Poplar Rd., Stafford, VA 22556

540.752.1212 • 540.809.2054 www.creativewildlife.com

CASTING LESSONS Get ready for your Alaska trip or just get better with

FLY CASTING LESSONS From Andrew Stiles; A Certified Flycasting Instructor that will travel to you!

Call for an appointment in DC, MD, VA, WV & NC

804.389.0812 [email protected]

www.mobileflycastinginstruction.com

OUTDOOR SERVICES DIRECTORY FISHING VA

with Wayne Nugent & Team Krank Bait

half & full day rates for bass & crappie

Lake Gaston • Buggs Island Chickahominy & James Rivers

804/796-3926

13309 Bermuda Plc., Chester, VA

James River

#1 On The Water

www.nightstalkerfishingcharters.com

Eberwein's Catfishin' Citations

James River Trophy Blue Catfish

Life's Revenge Fishing Guide Service

Saltwater trips for striper, flounder, drum, tog, spadefish, seabass & trout. Freshwater trips for blue and flathead catfish, smallmouth bass, shad & ring perch. 804.357.8518 [email protected] www.lifesrevengefishing.com

www.jrcgs.com

Guaranteed Blue Cats!

James River Catfishing

Coast Guard Capt. Kevin Salmon Licensed Chester, VA Full Time 804 991-2319 Guide

Specializing in 50lb+ blue cats!

1-888-588-6171

[email protected]

Magazine

'12 Legend Model 191 w/Mercury 225 Pro XS. Best fit and finish in the industry. $39,900 804/752-2054 '12 Triton 18 Explorer w/Mercury 150 OptiMax, 24 volt TM, includes freight, rigging, and cover. $28,600 804/752-2054 '12 Boston Whaler 170 SS, Ski tower, bimini Top. $27, 800 804/752-2054

Featuring Float Trips on the James River & tributaries for Fly & Spin Anglers [email protected] www.hatchmatcherguideservice.com

Guiding on the James, Potomac, Pamunkey, Chickahominy and Rappahannock!

Canoe Camping Adventures

Join us for canoe camping and fishing trips in the Dismal Swamp and Lake Drummond! You’ll never forget the beauty, fishing and fun!

757.328.9292 or 757.855.9213

email: [email protected] www.canoe-camping-adventures.com

$14,800

804/752-2054

DOCKSIDE MARINE, INC. - We service I/O & O/B. Install new electronics and accessories. New & used parts. Used motors & outdrives. 804/752-2054 '11 Sea Ray Model 240, Sundeck. $59,900

Bentonville, Virginia Join us for a day on a superb bass fishery! www.downriver.com 1-800-338-1963

Outdoor Classifieds

Woods & Waters

'12 Boston Whaler Model 13SS.

Hatchmatcher 434 286-3366 Guide Service

Check out our website for more info!

Shenandoah River Trips via Canoe, Kayak, Raft or Float Tube!

Guaranteed!

804 449-6134

• Guided trips on Lake Moomaw for trout, yellow perch and other species. • Day or overnight trout trips in Hidden Valley. • Jackson River trout & smallmouth bass. 540/468-2682 www.mapletreeoutdoors.com • Saltwater striper fishing.

804/752-2054

'11 TRACKER Grizzly 2072 CC w/Merc 90 OptiMax, MK iPilot TM, 2 Lowrance DFs, batt. chrgr., trlr., all extras. $18,999 AVAIL 10/12 540/894-9144 '10 Sweetwater 20' pontoon w/Yamaha 60. $16,900 540/297-7070 '10 New TRACKER Pro Team 170 TX w/Merc 50 4-stroke, MG TM, Lowrance DF, batt., trlr. $13,445 540/894-9222 '10 New TRACKER Pro Team 190 TX w/Merc 90 OptiMax, MG TM, Lowrance DF, batt., trlr. $18,096 540/894-9222 '10 New TRACKER Panfish 16 w/Merc 30 4-stroke, MG TM, Lowrance DF, batt., trlr. $9,595 540/894-9222

'10 SeaRay, 205 Sport. $32,995

804/275-0250

'10 SeaRay, 175 Sport. $18,997

804/275-0250

'10 Boston Whaler 19 Montauk. $35.997

804/275-0250

Our boat launch at Smith Mountain Lake is now open to the public! Also, lease space available at $400/year with launch privileges. 540/297-7070 '08 Aqua Lodge 42'x12' Houseboat w/Yamaha 115. Loaded! $59,000 540/297-7070 '08 Nitro NX 750 SC. Mint Condition, 115 Mercruy Optimax, 12 volt/ 40lb thrust Motor,Lowrance fishfinder, Black/White. $13,995 540/288-9923 '07 Triton TR186 DC w/Merc 150 EFI, less than 78 hours. Garage kept. $21,995 804/275-0250 '07 SeaRay Model 195, 30 hours. $23,495

804/275-0250

'07 SX180 SKEETER w/115 Yamaha, 2 Lowrance DF, Minn Kota 70-lb. TM, chrgng. systm. $12,500 OBO 540/462-0957 '06 Nitro 591SC w/Mercury150. $14,900

540/297-7070

'05 Gambler 2200 DC w/225 Merc Pro XS, 2 Lowrance DFs, 1 GPS unit, tndm trlr, 82lb MG TM, 10" setback. Ext. warr. Loaded! $33,500 703/590-4862

W2 Classified advertising is easy! Monthly listings are just $10/mo. (min. 3-mo. insertion) prepaid via check, money order or credit card. Just call (540/894-5960), fax (540/894-5973) or send your information (75 Edgewood Dr., Mineral, VA 23117). You must call, fax or email us by the 15th of the month prior to run month to continue the ad. Limit your listings to three lines or @25 words. Be sure and include your phone # or email.

July July 2012 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com woodsandwatersmagazine.com

53 53

HUNTING PRESERVES

FOREST GREEN Shooting Preserve, Inc

Featuring guided & non-guided hunts for pheasant, chukar & quail on over 500 acres of wildlife habitat in Spotsylvania County (near Lake Anna).

Call for reservations 540/582-2566

www.forestgreenshootingpreserve.com forest [email protected]

NO LIMIT QUAIL HUNTING!

Spacious fields to train your dogs or just to hunt.

434.246-5986 • 804.691-8809 c

www.huntsgamepreserve.com

Overnight lodging avail.

6 mi. W of I-95 in Sussex Co., VA Book a deer, turkey or bird hunt with us in Bath County! Hunt wild grouse or upland game: pheasant, chukar, quail or huns in natural habitat. Guides & dogs provided Bath County, Virginia or use your own dog. Lodge Accommodations

Call for info & prices 540 996-4134 www.greenvalleyhuntersparadise.

Shenandoah Valley Sportsman www.wvbirdhunt.com

Hunting & Fishing Club 304 229-7715 • Upland Game Birds • Whitetail Deer Hunts 1.5 hrs. from D.C! No Memberships • Trout Fishing • New Dog Kennels & No Dues • Lodging & Meals

2473 Arden Nollville Rd., Inwood, WV

Whitetail Deer Hunts at...

Cl ver Creek Farm

in Bedford,

Archery - Muzzleloader - General Firearms

434 832-1178

www.clovercreekfarm.com

Great lodging, meals and atmosphere

Outdoor Calendar Event listings are free for advertisers and non-profit organizations or clubs. Deadline is 14th of the month before the month to appear. Please send, email or fax information you want to appear to: Woods & Waters Notebook, 75 Edgewood Dr., Mineral, VA 23117. Fax to 540/894-5973. Emails to: [email protected]

Fishing Tournaments Every Tuesday Night – Lake Anna Tuesday Night Bass Series – Anna Point Marina, 6-9:30pm. Call 540/840-6772. Every Friday Night – High Point Marina’s Friday Night Tournament – Lake Anna, 6:30-9:30pm. Call 540/895-5249. July 1 – Lake Anna Sunday Morning Bass Series – Anna Point Marina. 6-10:30am. Call 540/840-6772. July 5 – Eagles Landing Thursday Bass Tournament – Chick Lake, 5:30-8:30pm. Call 804-966-9094. July 7 - Potomac Teams Open Bass Tournament – Leesylvania State Park, 6am-3pm. Call 703/491-3321 or email [email protected]. July 7 & 8 – Eagles Landing Night Tournament – Chick Lake, 11pm-7am. Call 804-966-9094. July 8 – Lake Anna Sunday Morning Bass Series – Anna Point Marina. 6-10:30am. Call 540/840-6772. July 8 – Potomac River Bass Series (Sunday division) – Leesylvania Park, 6am-3pm. Call 540/840-6772. July 12 – Eagles Landing Thursday Bass Tournament – Chick Lake, 5:30-8:30pm. Call 804-966-9094. July 14 – Potomac River Bass Series (Saturday division) – Leesylvania Park, 6am-3pm. Call 540/840-6772. July 15 – Eagles Landing Sunday Tournament – Chick Lake, 6am-2pm. 804/966-9094. July 15 – Lake Anna Sunday Morning Bass Series – Anna Point Marina. 6-10:30am. Call 540/840-6772. July 19 – Eagles Landing Thursday Bass Tournament – Chick Lake, 5:30-8:30pm. 804-966-9094. July 21 – Potomac Teams Open Bass Tournament – Leesylvania State Park, 6am-3pm. Call 703/491-3321 or email [email protected]. July 21 & 22 – Eagles Landing Night Tournament – Chick Lake, 11pm-7am. 804/966-9094. July 22 – Lake Anna Sunday Morning Bass Series – Anna Point Marina. 6-10:30am. Call 540/840-6772. July 22 - Potomac River Bass Series (Sunday division) – Leesylvania Park, 6am-3pm. Call 540/840-6772. July 26 – Eagles Landing Thursday Bass Tournament – Chick Lake, 5:30-8:30pm. Call 804-966-9094. July 28 – Eagles Landing Saturday Tournament – Chick Lake, 6am-2pm. Call 804-966-9094. July 28 – Potomac River Bass Series (Saturday division) – Leesylvania Park, 6am-3pm. Call 540/840-6772. July 28 – Castaway Sporting Goods/SurfnTurf Series – Chickahominy River, Riverview Park, 6am-3pm. Call 804/706-9100. July 29– Lake Anna Sunday Morning Bass Series – Anna Point Marina. 6-10:30am. Call 540/840-6772. Community/Archery & Other Events July 6-8 - Big Buck Expo - Greensboro Coliseum, NC., Meet R.J. and Jay Paul Molinere from TV's Swamp People Friday & Saturday. www.southerntrophyhunters.com. July 14 – Shenandoah River Rodeo – Shenandoah Riverkeeper Jeff Kelble is back again with a celebration of the river. Live music, BBQ, fishing & camping. Visit potomacriverkeeper.org/

LAND MANAGEMENT

TROUT/FLY FISHING Stream fishing by appointment only Pond fishing 8am-5p, Sat. & Sun.

's orffPond Or ndTrout

PLOTMASTER DEALER

Rainbow, brook & golden trout

Patriot LWM Outdoors

Cedar Creek Valley - 20 miles outside of Strasburg, VA

www.patriotlwmoutdoors.com

& Stream Fishing

540.436-3384

54

woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012

July

240.687.7228

World Class

Now Booking Our 2012 Seasons!

HUNTING & FISHING

Leasing & Day Use Opportunities Available!

Open To The Public

Wild Turkeys // Deer //Dove // Trophy Bass Ponds!

Our Farms Are Located In NC ., Halifax Co,VA & Person Co

Located 20 Minutes From Kerr Reservoir email [email protected]

Tall Oak Farms, LLC Southern Virginia's Premier Hunting Land

Call 336.504.5247

July 2012 woodsandwatersmagazine.com

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woodsandwatersmagazine.com July 2012