Week of  January 18, 2010

Word to Ponder
Misc New Fishing-Boating Products
Hunting & Shooting Products/Issues
Regional

Michigan
New York
Ohio
Other Breaking News Items
  • Herb Gray departs IJC frustrated by inaction on Great Lakes
    On the eve of Gray's departure after eight years as Canadian chairman of the International Joint Commission that oversees transboundary waters, he expressed frustration at the lack of formal negotiations to modernize and strengthen the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.

  • Illinois tries united front against fish and lawsuit
    Federal and state officials from Illinois on Tuesday defended their efforts to ward off Asian carp, a voracious, nonnative fish that could threaten the ecosystem of the Great Lakes, even as they reported new evidence that the fish may be near Lake Michigan.

  • Durbin says Illinois' not in denial' on carp threat
    Senator Dick Durbin urged better cooperation among Great Lakes states to keep Asian carp from entering Lake Michigan, something he said would create "economic and ecosystem devastation."
     

  • Carp DNA found closer to the lake
    Environmental DNA samples taken in recent weeks reveal that Asian carp apparently have infested another waterway just below the shores of Lake Michigan, this time north of downtown Chicago, the Journal Sentinel has learned.

 

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Word to Ponder

Words to Ponder

Life is tough, but it's tougher when you are stupid.

John Wayne


Misc New Fishing-Boating Products

Rescue Tape

Rescue Tape is a self-fusing silicone repair product with infinite uses. First used by the US Military and now seen at consumer and industrial  trade shows across America, this is the most versatile and easy-to-use emergency repair product available. You can repair leaks on plumbing  and hoses in a flash, use to insulate electrical wiring or as shrink wrap, wrap tool handles, and much, much more.

 

Rescue Tape is a unique, self-fusing, non-adhesive silicone tape that quickly seals common leaks in water lines, fuel lines, hoses and repairs

When stretched and wrapped under tension, Rescue Tape instantly begins curing into one piece of silicone, creating an air-and-water-tight  seal resistant to salt water, fuel, oil, acids, solvents and UV rays.

 

Unlike self-amalgamating tapes or other rubber and silicone products, Rescue Tape fuses faster and recently tested at more than 920 PSI  breaking strength, is the strongest repair tape on the market. Resistant up to 8,000 volts per layer, Rescue Tape also repairs critical electronics  such as VHF radios, fish finders and navigation equipment, onboard electrical wiring, waterproofs electrical connections and protects battery  cables and terminals. Wrap it around fishing rod handles for a nice grip that is non-slip, even when wet.

 

With the unique Clear Rescue Tape, anglers can wrap electrical connections and waterproof them, while still being able to visually inspect the  connection to assure there is no corrosion or damage, view the color and the print on the wiring. This is especially beneficial for coax cables  for VHF

antennae, or installation of marine electronics.

 

Rescue Tape takes just minutes or even seconds to permanently fuse together and never comes unraveled. Easily removed with a knife or  scissors, Rescue Tape never gets gummy or sticky like duct tape or electrical tape and leaves no residue. Resists temperatures up to 500 F  (260 C). Available in eight colors and various sizes for a variety of onboard repair applications.

 

Rescue Tape is the Ultimate Multi-Purpose Self-Fusing Repair Tape!  It really works.

 

Rescue Tape . . .

� Is Self-Fusing!

� Waterproof

� Airtight

� Resists fuels, oils, acid, UV rays, saltwater

� Incredible 950 PSI Tensile Strength!

� Insulates 8,000 Volts per layer!

� Withstands 500� F Degrees of heat!

� Remains flexible to -85� F! (-60� C)

� Standard roll 1" x 12' long, 20 mil thick

� Industrial roll 2" x 36' long, 30 mil thick

� Available in 8 colors

� Comes in 2, 6 or 12-roll paks, or industrial roll

� Custom Orders available

 

About  $24.95 per 2-roll pak

 

Available online at Bass Pro Shops, Amazon or at Ace Hardware, True Value, Pilot & TA Travel Centers, etc.

 

877-847-2628       www.rescuetape.com/


Hunting & Shooting Products/Issues

Browning Maxus Selected as Shotgun of the Year

by American Hunter Magazine

Now in its eighth year, NRA Publications recently announced its selection for its coveted Golden Bullseye Awards for the finest products available in the shooting sports industry. This years honors for �Shotgun of the Year� go to the Browning Maxus.

 

�With its new Power Drive gas system, Vector Pro �

 

lengthened forcing cone and innovative Speed Lock Forearm, the Browning Maxus was a natural choice for this award�, said a very proud Charles Guevremont, CEO of the Morgan, Utah based Browning. �It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award.�

 

To learn more about the Browning MAXUS, visit www.browning.com


Crimson Trace Announces Green Laser Modular Vertical Foregrip

Wilsonville, OR - Crimson Trace announces an addition to the revolutionary modular vertical foregrip, the MVF-515 G that now utilizes both a green laser and a white light in one unit. Both light sources follow the Crimson Trace mantra of instinctive activation for ease of use.

 

Given the popularity and usefulness of green lasers, the Crimson Trace engineering team was able to solve the two banes of green laser technology: The first one, heat, which shortens the laser diode life and second, high power draw, rendering green lasers useless in a matter of minutes. The engineers at Crimson Trace have overcome both of these detriments by utilizing the latest technologies into the new MVF-515 G. In addition to solving the heat and energy issues, Crimson Trace has been able to devise a way for the laser to operate in temperatures that other lasers can't compete with. Our green laser was tested from 16�F to over 120�F. Up until the new technology that Crimson Trace engineers have developed, this range has been unobtainable in consumer grade green lasers.

 

The MVF-515 G brings speed, accuracy and effectiveness of heads-up sighting to those that require the tactical advantage available with this new product. The MVF-515 G provides three tools in one. A laser, white-light, and a robust vertical foregrip in a single, modular package. The polymer grip panels are mounted onto an aircraft grade, 6061-T6 aluminum, hard-anodized tang and contain activation switches on each side that control the light and the laser independently. (The MVF-515 G can be programmed in seconds for momentary laser or light, strobe or constant-on. The white light is adjustable from 150 to 200 lumens.) Two CR-123 batteries provide over 4 hours of light illumination and over 6 hours of green laser illumination.

 

Beam Intensity - 5mw peak, 520-540 nm, Class 3R laser

Dot Size - Approximately 0.5" diameter at 50 feet

Batteries - Two CR123 batteries; over 4 hours of light

illumination. Minimum 6 hours of laser illumination

Activation - Side-located integrated pressure switches with master on/off function

Warranty - Three-year full warranty

Weight - 10.2 ounces [with batteries]

This product complies with title 21 CFR 1040.10

 

[MVF-515 G] Specifications:

Fits Picatinny 1913 or Similar Accessory Rails.

> Polymer Grip Panels With Overmolded Activation Pads

> Dual-Side Activation Switches

> Independent Momentary, Strobe And Constant-On Programmability For Laser & Light Components

> Tested from 16�F to Over 120�F Operating Range

> Full Length 6061-T6 Aircraft Aluminum, Hard-Anodized Tang

> Custom, Two-Screw Rail Mount

> Replaceable, 150/200-Lumen LED Light Module

> Rotating Light Bezel Selects High/ Low Light Output

> Pin-Locked, Channel-Fitted Butt-Cap Attachment

> Rugged, Proprietary Grip Texture

> Parkerized Steel Recoil Lugs And Hardware

> Patent-Pending Design

 

The MVF-515 G is anchored in place by a two-screw rail mount that fits most standard Picatinny rails. All electrical components fit into the vertical foregrip, which is ergonomically designed for comfort and built for hard use.

 

The texture of the MVF-515 G is aggressive and can be used with or without gloves. Batteries and electronics are kept dry and functional by a water resistant O-ring built into the grip panels of the foregrip.

 

The MVF-515 G tang is also compatible with the Red Laser Module (MVF-515 MOD R). Sold separately, available at MSRP $249.

 

All Crimson Trace laser sights have both windage and elevation adjustments for shooters to make adjustments on their own. All Crimson Trace laser sighting systems come with an accessory pack that contains batteries, hex wrenches for laser adjustments and several cleaning swabs. A limited three-year warranty is standard.


Block Fusion Crossbow Target Available

SUPERIOR, WI -- With blistering speeds, hair-splitting accuracy and bone-crushing energy, the latest generation of crossbows has become

extremely popular. So much so, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Texas have approved the use of crossbows for the 2009-hunting season,

bringing the total to 11 states that allow crossbow hunting.

 

The new BLOCK Fusion Crossbow Target was designed specifically to top stop 400+ FPS crossbow bolts. The

 

PolyFusion design in the BLOCK Fusion Crossbow Target

provides even longer target life and increases ease of arrow removal. It is black with white targets and  features the new BLOCK Game Face on two of the four shooting sides. This feature offers archers six game species (elk, deer, moose, pronghorn, bear and turkey) in various sizes, thereby simulating both short- and long-range shooting.

 

The Block Fusion Crossbow Targets also features the ever-popular deer vitals. Available in an 18x18x16 and 16X16X12, these new targets will be available immediately at retailers nationwide at retail prices of $159.99 and $109.99, respectively.

 

www.fieldlogic.com


Freedom Group Acquires Barnes Bullets

Freedom Group Inc. through a wholly owned subsidiary has entered into a purchase agreement to acquire Barnes Bullets. The transaction closed on Dec. 31. Barnes Bullets will

 

continue day-to-day operations at their Mona, Utah-based location under the guidance of company founder, Randy Brooks.


Winchester To Celebrate Oliver Winchester�s 200th Birthday

In 2010, Winchester Ammunition will pay tribute to Oliver Winchester�s 200th birthday by introducing the new Oliver F. Winchester commemorative line in 22 Long Rifle, 45 Colt and .30-30 Win. A limited edition Model 1894 centerfire rifle will be introduced in 2010 in honor of the Winchester name as well.

 

The Oliver F. Winchester limited edition cartridges feature a nickel-plated shell casing bearing a special �OFW� head-stamp. All of the offerings come in collectable vintage packaging and a biography of the man that helped �Win the West.�

The 22 LR is a 40 gr. plated lead round nose, the 45 Colt cartridge is a 250 gr. lead round nose and the .30-30 Win is a 150 gr. power point.

 

Oliver Winchester was born November 30, 1810, in Boston, Mass. He began his career as a clothing manufacturer and a politician in New York and Connecticut. In 1850, he purchased the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company and later relocated the company to New Haven, Conn.

 

In 1866, Winchester changed the name of his company to Winchester Repeating Arms and the first Winchester rifle, the Model 1866, was designed.


Winchester Announces New Fragmenting Varmint Load

Winchester� Ammunition is taking varmint hunting to a new level, using fragmenting copper core technology, to incorporate a lead-free  bullet in both .223 Rem and 22-250 Rem in the Ballistic Silvertip� line.

 

This truly innovative lead-free load brought to you by Winchester and Nosler� features a plastic tip to reduce tip damage and promote  long-range performance, and a gilding metal jacket. The fragmenting copper core is engineered to explode on impact.

"The technology behind this bullet is evident on impact," saidBrett Flaugher, vice president of domestic and international marketing and  sales. "Winchester and Nosler continue to work together and offer the most innovative ammunition, and this bullet will clearly stand out in  2010."

 

20 rds. per box - 200 rds. per case, the Winchester Ballistic Silvertip lead-free bullet will meet the increased customer demand in regions with  lead-free regulations, as well as the growth of varmint hunting across all parts of North America. For more information about Winchester and  its complete line of products, visit www.winchester.com.


Winchester is Proud to be a Leader in the Shooting Sports

Winchester Ammunition pledged $500,000 to permanently endow the NRA's Marksmanship Qualification Program, thus becoming the  exclusive sponsor of the officially renamed Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification Program.

 

The Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification Program is a self-paced shooting development program. Open to adults and youngsters  alike, the program measures an individual's

shooting proficiency against established par scores in 13 courses of fire across three disciplines:  pistol, rifle and shotgun.

 

By supporting the Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification Program, Winchester is providing everyone the chance to explore the  benefits that hunting and the shooting sports have to offer. To learn more about the Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification Program,  please call 800-672-3888 ext. 1505 or visit www.nrahq.org/youth.


 

Regional

U.S. Coast Guard approved Captain classes

USMA Chicago is offering U.S. Coast Guard approved Captains classes, starting February 16, 2010 at Chicago�s Columbia Yacht Club.  1st Night Registration and information meeting is Thursday, February 11th, 7 PM.  Free to all interested parties

 

The tuition of $1,250 includes all texts, application preparation and Training Certificates for both 100 ton 6-pack and Masters licenses).  The program is Veterans Administration  (VA) approved.

 

Classes are open to the Public

 

The Yacht club address is 111 N. Lake Shore Drive Chicago,

 

Ill. 60601. Free parking is available

 

For more info: www.chicagocaptainsclasses.com 

 

Contact info:

Captain Al Grigalunas    312-259-5125  

[email protected]

 

Captain Fred Swastek   773-578-6852

[email protected] 

 

USMA Home Office   360-385-4852

 

Click here for the class Registration Form  Registration Form


Ice Safety Tips

� Always remember that ice-covered water is never completely safe.

� Anyone new to ice fishing, or interested in learning how to safely ice fish, should seek out a licensed ice-fishing guide. A list of certified guides is available at www.wildohio.com or by calling the ODNR Division of Wildlife, Sandusky office at (419) 625-8062. Ask at local bait shops about known areas of thin or dangerous ice.

� Always go out with friends, letting others know when you will be on the ice and when you will return. Whenever possible, wrap a mobile phone in a plastic bag and take it with you.

� Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket or float coat. Life vests provide excellent flotation and protection from hypothermia.

� Use safe alternatives to local streams or lakes for skating or sledding. Check with your local, state or metro park district to see where conditions are suitable for skating. Some state parks, including Delaware State Park in Delaware County and Dillon State Park in Muskingum County, offer free access to designated ice-skating areas.

� Understand wind chill factors are relative temperature guides. Although a thermometer may read 40 degrees, a wind speed of 20 miles per hour can cause a body to lose heat as if the temperature was actually 18 degrees.

 

� Carry two ice picks, screwdrivers or large nails to create leverage for pulling yourself out of the water. They are much more effective than bare hands. Also, carry a whistle or other noisemaker to alert people that you are in distress.

� Dress in layers and add extra clothing for the head, neck, sides and groin, which are the primary heat-loss areas. Wool and modern synthetics are good fabric choices for clothing; cotton is slow to dry when wet.

� Keep an extra set of clothes in your car in case you need dry clothing.

� Avoid alcoholic beverages. In addition to reducing reaction times, alcohol lowers your internal temperature and increases your chance of suffering hypothermia.

� Never drive a vehicle, snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle onto ice. Leave this to professional guides. This is extremely dangerous and most insurance policies will not cover the vehicles of ice fishermen that have dropped through the ice.

 

With the lowest temperatures of the season sweeping across the country, many may be tempted to venture out onto the ice. If you're headed onto ice, even if you're experienced as an ice angler, you should continue to observe basic safety tips, including being prepared for an emergency. Lives may depend on your preparation.


New Chicago Outdoor Show

Big Change comes to Rosemont

Under new management and ownership, the 31st Annual America's Outdoor Fishing & Hunting Show - the New Chicago Sportshow - will be held January 27-31 at the Rosemont Convention Center. Besides a new owner, the show has a new attitude and a new look. 

 

Once billed as the largest sport show in the country, new owner Jim Sugarman promises to rebuild it to its former reputation - for hunting and fishing.  Sugarman promises a back to basics show of hunting, fishing camping and outdoors, no more "flea market" scenes.

 

McHenry�s Spence Petros is on the advisory board for America�s Outdoors Show and is one of the show�s key speakers. Other big-name draws to the show are Babe

Winkelman, Bassmaster champion Mike Iaconelli, Ted Takasaki and Jim Saric.

 

There will be $100,000 in give-a-ways including: a $10,000 Grand prize package Fly-In to Ganglers North Seal River Lodge in  Northern Manitoba, a $5,000 (Value) Big Game African Safari Trip, $3,500 (Value) Grandt Custom Split Bamboo Casting Rod, $2,500 (Value) Air-Dale Flying Service for 2 to remote outpost camp in Northern Ontario, $1,200 (Value) Canadian Waters Seven day canoe trips, plus more.

 

Each day of the show, a lucky student will win $300 Cash as will the School for the best essay.

 

Visit The Web site for more information: http://www.americasoutdoorshow.com/


Michigan

Humphries named Director of New Department

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm, on January 13 announced Rebecca A. Humphries as director of the new Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE),

effective January 17, 2010.  Created by Executive Order 2009-45, the DNRE will assume the powers and functions of the departments of Natural Resources and Environmental Quality, both of which are abolished by the executive order.


New York

NY DEC announces changes to bait fish regulations

Anglers Now Have 10 Days to Use Purchased, Certified Bait

Alewife and Rainbow Smelt Allowed in Certain Western New York Waters

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Pete Grannis, earlier this month announced revised regulations that extend the time period for anglers to legally possess and use certified bait fish from seven to 10 days after purchase, and also allow the use of some bait fish in certain Western New York waters that had previously been prohibited. The new rules became effective immediately.

 

The movement of uncertified bait fish can be a principle avenue for the transmission of fish diseases. In an effort to protect New York�s fisheries from the introduction of invasive species and diseases, DEC enacted rules to restrict bait fish use including limiting the use of certified disease free bait fish to within one week of purchase. www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/47282.html  After receiving requests and input from anglers seeking to extend that time period, DEC is providing an additional three days to allow certified bait fish to be used in state waters.

 

With the extension to 10 days, anglers can potentially use the bait fish over consecutive weekends, depending on the date of purchase. The 10-day period will extend from the date of purchase indicated on the required, dated bait fish receipt.

�This change will enhance the opportunity for anglers to use certified bait fish, but still maintain our efforts to protect fisheries from the potential release of uncertified or diseased bait fish into New York waters,� Commissioner Grannis said.

 

In addition, the new regulation allows for the use of two bait fish species in additional waters of the state where their use is currently prohibited. Alewife may now be used in Hemlock Lake (Livingston County), Canadice Lake (Ontario County) and Waneta Lake (Schuyler County). In addition, use of rainbow smelt as bait will also be allowed in Hemlock Lake and Canadice Lake, as well as Honeoye Lake (Ontario County). These species are being added to the acceptable list of bait fish species that can be used because reproducing populations of alewife and smelt currently exist in these lakes and their use as bait fish poses no biological threat to the waters� fish communities.

 

While DEC is expanding the list of waters where the use of alewife and rainbow smelt is permitted, use is still subject to the statewide regulations pertaining to the use of bait fish, including the prohibition against the overland transport of uncertified bait fish. Information

about these requirements and other freshwater fishing regulations can be found at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7917.html  on the DEC website.


Ohio

Use Extra Caution On the Ice

COLUMBUS, OH - Ohioans are reminded to use extreme caution during winter while venturing onto frozen waterways and to be prepared to handle an emergency should someone fall through the ice, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

As some of the lowest temperatures of the winter arrive, some people may be tempted to venture out onto the ice and should be aware of basic safety tips, including being prepared for an emergency. ODNR offers these ice safety tips; additional tips can be found online at www.ohiodnr.com and through various other Internet web resources.


Winter Activities Offered Across Ohio

COLUMBUS, OH - The Ohio DNR welcomes Ohioans and out-of-state guests to celebrate the cold days of winter with an array of outdoor events and activities across the state.

 

Ohio's 74 state parks are offering dozens of fun, family-oriented outdoor events this winter. From Malabar Farms State Park in Richland County to Lake Hope State Park in Vinton County, there will be plenty of winter recreation including cross country skiing, winter hikes, sledding and more. These family favorites are highlighted this year by some new features and events.

 

The anticipation for substantial snowfall always runs high this time of year. Be ready for winter fun once the white blanket of snow arrives. This year, sled down one of the thrilling hills found at many of Ohio's state parks. Each region boasts several locations. Or, join a pre-scheduled winter hike, but remember, come prepared for cold weather by dressing in layers and wearing appropriate footwear. To find a state park near you, visit  www.ohiodnr.com/parks.

 

There's plenty of action in January and February for those who like to spend their outdoor time hunting or trapping. Depending on the game species, Ohio's furbearer hunting and trapping season is underway or will soon begin. Safety is the number one issue when entering the woods to hunt. Hunter education courses are in full swing this time of year

with courses being offered all around Ohio. All first-time hunting license buyers in Ohio must complete a hunter education course. To learn more, visit www.ohiodnr.com/wildlife .

 

With Ohio's ever changing temperatures, an ice fishing season can come and go as quickly as a trophy fish at the end of your line. Because of the need for consecutive days of freezing weather, it's hard to say when (or if) safe ice fishing conditions will surface. Savvy anglers know that preparation is the key to grabbing their chance to enjoy this fleeting fishing opportunity or else to be left, quite literally, out in the cold. To learn more about ice fishing in the Buckeye state, visit www.ohiodnr.com/wildlife.

 

Like your winter getaways a little warmer? Ohioans are invited to enjoy the comforts of the lodge rooms or cozy cottages at Ohio's state parks. Special packages featuring discounted rates make winter state park getaways even more appealing. Ohio State Park lodges offer a variety of seasonal packages. To learn more, visit  www.ohiodnr.com/parks.

 

For more information about ODNR events and activities throughout the state this winter, visit www.ohiodnr.com and click on Winter Escape. Additional winter events throughout Ohio can be found at www.discoverohio.com  or by calling 1-800-BUCKEYE.


 

The opinions expressed here are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the GLSFC, its officers or staff. 

Reproduction of any material by paid-up members of the GLSFC is encouraged but appropriate credit must be given. 

Reproduction by others without written permission is prohibited.

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