Weekly News Archives

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       New Product  Archives

Major lure manufacturer suspends shipments to Canada

Lurenet.com, home to 12 of world�s  storied lure brands such as Bomber, Heddon, Arbogast, Creek Chub and Rebel has suspended shipments to Canada due to exorbitant duty fees that are being levied by customs on their Canadian customers.

In a recent notice posted on their web site at www.lurenet.com the company says "The North Country is some of the most beautiful in the world and a lot of us carry the memory of throwing a Jitterbug to hard-fighting smallies or floating along on a clear, gentle current while a

Wally Diver buys dinner. We value our Canadian customers and are regretful for the inconvenience, but temporarily we will not be able to process orders from Canada due to exorbitant duty fees that are being levied by customs on our Canadian customers."  

The company adds "We will resume shipments to Canada as soon as a sensible solution to this issue is uncovered. We very much appreciate our loyal Canadian customer base and are truly sorry for this temporary interruption in service. As soon as a solution is in place we will make an announcement that business has returned to normal."

Frabill�s Hiber-Net transforms into a boat paddle

When Being Up A Creek Isn�t Such A Bad Thing

 Better to be up a creek than left without a paddle in the middle of a lake, right? For any craft that floats, having a trusty paddle aboard isn�t just a wise move, in some locales, it�s the law. But who wants to rob their boat of valuable space with a big clunky oar? Well, you can leave the paint-chipped oar in the boat house. Better yet, hang the antique in the porch to enhance the nautical theme.

New from Frabill comes another ingenious idea that renders a brilliant solution to an all-too-common dilemma. The Hiber-Net� Paddle accessory snaps into place at the end of any Frabill Hiber-Net, transforming your landing net into a functional boat paddle. Hiber-Net, often called �the most stowable landing net ever devised,� sports a net that actually collapses and vanishes into its heavy-duty aluminum handle. When stowed it�s so compact that the entire Hiber-Net fits inside a rod box, consuming no more

space than a broomstick. When you need it, a simple

push on the slide-grip opens the net and locks it into place. Pulling back on the grip disengages the net and draws it back inside the handle. Brilliant!

Brilliant is the best way to describe the Hiber-Net Paddle accessory, too. At 6-1/2 inches wide by 14-inches in length the rugged polypropylene Paddle blade fits easily into most boat storage compartments. When you need it, the Paddle simply slides over the open end of the Hiber-Net, locking into place with a heavy-duty steel pull pin.

�This handy Paddle accessory makes carrying a spare oar easy for any angler,� says Frabill New Product Manager Andy Schmelzer. �It�s made of heavy-duty non-corrosive material and snaps securely into place on any Hiber-Net or Hiber-Net XL. Throw one into your boat�s storage compartment where it�s out of the way, but always ready to spring into action when you need it.

Winchester adds two new models to 94 Line

In 2010 Winchester Repeating Arms brought back the long time popular Model 94 lever action rifle to their line of rifles.   For 2011 two new Model 94 rifle models will be added to the line, a Sporter rifle and a handy Short rifle.

Model 94 Sporter

The new Winchester Sporter 94 will feature a 24-inch half-round, half-octagon blued barrel.  The rifle has a traditional straight grip stock with a crescent butt and blued steel buttplate.  The satin oil finished walnut stock is finely checkered in the familiar pattern with double-lined bordering.  The Sporter 94 has a semi-buckhorn rear sight and a fine gold bead on the front.  Each receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts and the hammer is drilled and tapped for a spur extension.

The Sporter comes in either 30-30 Winchester or 38-55 Winchester.   Both have a magazine capacity of 8 rounds.   The 30-30 model has a 1 in 12 inch rate of twist 

and the 38-55 has a 1 in 18 inch rate of twist.  Both havean overall length of 42 � inches.  

The Winchester Short Rifle Model 94 was a favorite for many hunters and shooters and the new model is sure to be a popular addition to the new line of Model 94 rifles.   The Short Rifle 94 is fast to the shoulder, quick-swinging, lightweight and a pleasure to shoot.  It was and will be popular with the range rider who needs to snatch the gun from a saddle scabbard and fire quickly.

Model 94 Short Rifle

The Short Rifle 94 has a compact 20-inch deeply-blued round barrel and straight grip walnut stock.   It has a rifle-style forearm, black grip cap and full-length magazine.  The sights are traditional with a semi-buckhorn rear and Marble Arms� gold bead at the muzzle.  The rifle is also drilled and tapped for scope mounts. 

The Short Rifle 94 has an overall length of 38 inches and weighs 6 � pounds.   It is available in 30-30 Winchester.

About $1199.99 - 1299.99

800-333--3288

www.winchesterguns.com

Burris Fullfield E¹ Riflescopes

Burris has announced the introduction of its new Fullfield E¹ Riflescope line. Retaining popular features of the Fullfield II riflescopes, the new E¹ line offers a sleek profile with upgraded ergonomic windage/elevation knobs, a matching power ring and an eyepiece that accepts flip-up lens caps. Precision and accuracy of the new Fullfield E¹ scope line has been enhanced with the addition of the Burris Ballistic Plex E¹ reticle.

Until now, this proprietary wind-compensating reticle has only been available on the Burris premium SixX scope line. Now featured in the Fullfield E¹ Series, the Ballistic Plex E¹ etched reticle provides a simple, uncluttered method for determining both trajectory and wind compensation. The reticle is a series of cascading .25 MOA dots to the left and right of the reticle that help compensate for crosswinds. The dots represent bullet drift from a 10 mph crosswind (+/- 1.5 inches at 400 yards) for most hunting

cartridges. For a 5 mph crosswind, halve the distance between dot and reticle. Likewise, for 20 mph crosswind, simply double the distance.

Internally, the new Fullfield E¹ scopes feature precision ground lenses that are larger than the lenses comparable scopes for better light transmission. The lenses are index-matched with Burris HiLume Storm multi-coatings. The Fullfield E¹ Series also feature double erector springs and positive steel-on-steel adjustments for repeatable accuracy.

Available at retailers nationwide, the new Burris Fullfield E¹ riflescopes will retail for: 2-7x35mm  $179; 3-9x40mm $199; 3-9x50mm $299; 4.5-14x42mm $349.

About $179.00 - $349.00

[email protected]

www.burrisoptics.com

Heritage Rough Rider SA Big Bore Revolvers

Rough Rider ... the very image conjured up is of the rugged men led by Theodore Roosevelt charging up Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill over 100 years ago during our war with Spain. That same image of ruggedness might also be applied to the newest Big Bore Rough Rider Revolvers from Heritage. Almost the "spitting image" of the Single Action Army was carried by some troops during the Spanish-American War.

This latest six-shooter comes chambered for the legendary .45 Colt cartridge but is also available in .357 Magnum. This fine handgun can be had in the traditional 4.75", 5.5" or 7.5" barrel lengths, just like the original. Blue, nickel and case hardened steel finishes are available. Each gun is fitted with an attractive one-piece cocobolo grip. The action features a frame mounted inertia firing pin and transfer bar for added protection. The Piettas of Italy, Old World gun makers, manufacture the parts plus they are a family run operation just like Heritage. These Big Bores are fully assembled in our good old USA.

This time tested, Western Tradition is now made affordable 

to shoot and purchase in a scaled down 22 LR and 22 Magnum size. Outstanding workmanship, accuracy, and quality is just the beginning of the value you receive with our Heritage Rough Rider Revolvers.

Perfect for the exciting sport of Western Action Shooting, our Big Bore Rough Rider embodies the flavor of the Old West but will also serve anyone who wants an accurate and reliable sidearm for other outdoor activities. As with all of the Heritage handgun line, this new six-gun offers both quality and affordability ... an American Tradition!

About $ 239.95 � 359.95

www.HeritageMfg.com

Simmons adds five models to ProSport Binocular Line 

Simmons has introduced five new models to the Simmons ProSport binocular line for 2011. The new models feature a new ergonomic design for added comfort during extended periods of viewing.

ProSport binoculars feature multi-coated, high quality optical glass with BAK-4 prisms that produce bright, sharp images in full detail. The five new models all feature twist-up eyecups and the roof prism system, with four models available in black - 8x 42mm, 10x 42mm, 10x 50m and 12x 50mm  - and one unit available in ATAC camo - 10x

42mm.

The ProSport line is nitrogen purged for fully waterproof and fog proof performance. Encased in tough, durable rubber armor, the ProSport binocular is designed to withstand rugged conditions and inclement weather.  Click here to view spec chart.

For more info about the Simmons ProSport binoculars, visit the ProSport section online.

About $115.95 � 152.95

800-423-3537

www.simmonsoptics.com

GLOCK celebrates 25 Years in the U.S. with 2,500 Limited-Edition Pistols

This year, 2011, GLOCK is commemorating its 25th Anniversary in the United States with a Silver Anniversary, Limited-Edition, 25th Anniversary GLOCK 17 Gen4 (9x19) pistol.  The 2,500 pistols are part of a year-long celebration that will be supported with a commemorative logo, advertising, promotions and various other activities.

The company opened its U.S. headquarters, GLOCK, Inc., in Smyrna, GA, in 1986.  At the time, the introduction of the semi-automatic GLOCK 17 pistol revolutionized the law enforcement industry in the United States.  Today, 65% of Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in the United States chooses GLOCK pistols, making GLOCK the world�s largest pistol manufacturer.

The 25th Anniversary, Limited-Edition GLOCK 17 Gen4 features a custom, silver 25th Anniversary logo inset on the grip.  It also features inscription on the slide.  The pistol comes in a silver colored GLOCK pistol box, a departure from the signature black GLOCK pistol box, to commemorate the Silver Anniversary.  The 25th Anniversary Logo is laser cut into the foam insert, and the set comes with a commemorative key chain.

In keeping with the Gen4 model, the pistol�s design is centered on ergonomics and the dual recoil spring assembly.   The Gen4, just like any GLOCK pistol, has the same tested �Safe Action� system, durable exterior finish, cold hammer forged barrel, reliability and lightweight that has made GLOCK firearms famous. All GLOCK pistols are backed by the GLOCK Limited Lifetime 

Warranty and world-class customer service and support that is second to none in the firearms industry.

GLOCK�s Gen4 model pistol brings revolutionary design changes to the world�s most popular pistol.  Most noticeably, the basic grip size of the Gen4 is smaller compared to the previous generation designs, due to the fact that the new generation offers a multiple backstrap system that allows the user to change the circumference of the grip to fit their individual hand size. The grip which has a new Rough Textured Frame (RTF) surface designed to enhance grip traction, offers three options: a short frame version, medium frame or large frame that are easily changed and secured with a single pin. The trigger mechanism housing has also been dimensionally adapted to fit in the smaller sized grip space.

The magazine release catches are also significantly enlarged and reversible for the ambidextrous shooter. To utilize the swappable magazine release feature, the Gen4 magazines have two notches cut on both sides of the magazine body, allowing users to switch access of the catch to the left or right side of the pistol with no additional parts.

Internally, the original recoil spring has been replaced with a dual recoil spring assembly, which noticeably reduces the recoil while simultaneously increasing the life cycle of the part. The slide and barrel shelf have been resized due to the larger diameter of the spring assembly. The front portion of the polymer frame under the slide has also been widened and enlarged internally in order to accommodate the dual assembly.

Support 'Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting

Sports Protection Act' � S. 838 & H.R. 1558
Help stop unreasonable bans on fishing tackle
On April 14, the Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting Sports Protection Act (S. 838 and H.R. 1558), was introduced by the chairs of the Congressional Sportsmen�s Caucus - Senators Jon Tester (D-MT) and John Thune (R-SD) and Representatives Jeff Miller (R-FL) and Mike Ross (D-AR). The Act will prevent a federal ban on lead in recreational fishing tackle and help to ensure that any future regulations on fishing tackle are established based on scientific data instead of unjustified petitions.

Due in large part to industry and angler response, last November the USEPA denied a petition to ban lead fishing tackle under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Despite the EPA's ruling, this issue is not yet fully resolved. The groups who filed the petition are now turning to a lawsuit to force the EPA to ban lead fishing tackle and ammunition.

The American Sportfishing Association is asking us to rally behind legislation to ensure further bans are not possible. Please, contact your Members of Congress today urging them to co-sponsor S. 838 and H.R. 1558, the Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting Sports Protection Act.

Act Now!
ASA encourages you to FAX a letter to your Members of Congress on your company, club or individual letterhead in support of the Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting Sports Protection Act. A template message is included below for your reference. Please be sure to include specific information on your organization. You can find your legislators� FAX numbers by going to ASA�s Legislative Action Center and entering your zip code. It is important that industry members, angling & hunting groups and anglers & hunters send comments!

For more information, contact Gordon Robertson, vice president and Government Affairs lead, 703-519-9691 x237, or Alyssa Hausman ASA Policy Fellow, x244.

You may also click here to send your message electronically.

Sample Message For Your Letterhead

Dear Senator/ Representative _______:

I am writing to ask for your support of the Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting Sports Protection Act, S. 838 and H.R. 1558. This legislation will put a stop to unwarranted petitions seeking to ban lead fishing tackle by establishing an exemption for traditional fishing tackle

under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and clarifying the exemption that already exists for the shooting and hunting sports.

My group, ________, is located in __________ and has a membership of ___ people. As a member of the sportfishing industry, we are dependent on clean waters with healthy and abundant fish and wildlife populations and supports science-based initiatives that will help protect the aquatic environment.

Last November the EPA dismissed a petition from the Center for Biological Diversity seeking to ban all lead in fishing tackle and ammunition under TSCA. In its response, the EPA stated that that the petitioners did not demonstrate that such a ban is "necessary to protect against an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment." Despite the EPA�s clear ruling, the petitioners continue to attempt to push the ban by filing a lawsuit to force the EPA to regulate lead fishing tackle and ammunition. The Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting Sports Protection Act is needed to protect traditional fishing tackle and ammunition from unjustified bans that will harm the economy and reduce participation in outdoor activities.

Although the petitioners aim to reduce waterfowl death from lead sinker ingestion, a study by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has shown that less than one percent of bird mortalities are the result of ingesting lead sinkers. Lead fishing tackle does not present a population-level threat to any bird species. In fact, loon populations - the primary species cited when bans are proposed - are increasing throughout their breeding range. If a particular body of water is of concern, the issue is most effectively addressed by a local science-driven process headed by the state fish and wildlife agency, not a national ban by the federal government.

Lead is used not only in sinkers, but in a wide variety of fishing lures and other tackle components. Contrary to claims made in the current petition to the EPA, alternatives to lead fishing sinkers and jigs are not readily available, and these alternatives are considerably more expensive and do not perform as well. The resultant decrease of fishing tackle purchases will hurt recreational fishing-dependent businesses and diminish the dollars available for fisheries conservation through fishing license sales and the federal manufacturers� excise tax on fishing equipment. Something our country can ill afford.

I urge you to support the Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting Sports Protection Act, because it will ensure that future regulations on fishing tackle are established in response to sound science instead of unjustified petitions.

Thank you for your consideration.

Coast Guard wants permanent Safety Zone in Electronic Barrier system

Proposing 77 mile zone from Brandon Road Lock and Dam to Lake Michigan

 The U. S. Coast Guard is proposing to establish a permanent safety zone from Brandon Road Lock and Dam to Lake Michigan. This proposed safety zone will cover 77 miles of navigable waterways in the Chicago area and is intended to restrict vessels from entering certain segments of the navigable waters of the Des Plaines River, the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal (CSSC), branches of the Chicago River, and the Calumet-Saganashkee Channel (Cal-Sag Channel).

The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking was posted April 27 in the Federal Register: Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 165, [Docket No. USCG�2011�0228] RIN 1625�AA00: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2011/pdf/2011-10194.pdf

The Federal Register states "This proposed safety zone is necessary to protect the waters, waterway users and vessels from hazards associated with a myriad of actions

designed to control the spread of aquatic nuisance speies.  Because the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee (ACRCC) may take such actions at any time and in any segment of the waterways covered by this proposed safety zone, this proposed safety zone would provide the Captain of the Port, Sector Lake Michigan, the ability to take targeted and expeditious action to protect vessels and persons from the hazards associated with any Federal and State efforts to control aquatic nuisance species."

You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG�2011�0228 using any one of the following methods:

(1) Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.regulations.gov.

(2) Fax: 202�493�2251.

(3) Mail: Docket Management Facility, (M�30), U.S. Department of Transportation, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12�140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590� 0001.

The telephone number:  202�366�9329.

To view Federal Register posting:  http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2011/pdf/2011-10194.pdf

Study Board Updates IJC on Progress, Public Input Plans

A progress report recently submitted to the International Joint Commission (IJC) during meetings in Washington, D.C., offers updates on the work of the International Upper Great Lakes Study.

The co-chairs of the Study Board and its Public Interest Advisory Group (PIAG) presented a progress report late last month to members of the IJC. Members of the U.S. Congress also were briefed on the Study, which is investigating the causes and impacts of fluctuating Great Lakes water levels.

Phase 2 of the Study is examining whether the regulation plan for Lake Superior outflows at Sault Ste. Marie can be improved to provide additional benefits for important interests and consider a changing climate.

Phase 2 also includes an exploratory look at the impacts of water level restoration options for Lakes Michigan and Huron, namely structures in the St. Clair River to raise levels by 10 centimeters, 25 centimeters, 40 centimeters or 50 centimeters. The analysis also will examine multi-lake regulation in the context of climate change.

Highlights of the Ninth Semi-Annual Progress Report, submitted April 13, 2011, include:

• Two workshops were conducted on institutional aspects of adaptive management and the ecological impacts of structures to restore Upper Great Lakes water levels;

• Exploratory investigations have been performed

regarding lake level restoration options including structural alternatives placed in the St. Clair River, estimated costs, and upstream and downstream hydrological, ecological and economic impacts;

• The Study Board is participating in decision exercises to prepare for its selection of an alternative regulation plan for Lake Superior later this year;

• Work has begun a draft of the final Study Report.

You can download a PDF of the April 13 Progress Report from this link.
 

On April 14 and 15, Dr. Gene Stakhiv of the Study Board and Kay Felt of PIAG briefed members of Congress and their staff regarding the findings and recommendations of Phase 1 and the status of various Phase 2 activities, including Lake Superior regulation, restoration and multi-lake regulation.  A PDF of their presentation is available at this link.

In other developments, the Study Board and a Public Interest Advisory Group recently approved a public engagement plan for this summer to provide information and seek input regarding the status of the Study�s work in Phase 2.

We plan to post a peer-reviewed, technical report on water level restoration options in early June, and launch a 45-day comment period on our full Study in mid-July, with meetings in the U.S. and Canada and opportunities for comment by e-mail and traditional mail.

More information on the engagement plan is forthcoming.

Midwest-Specific Hunt/Shoot/Fish Programming available

With Chicago Comcast Xfinity On Demand

Hyper-local, Seasonally-Specific programming only available with Chicago Comcast 24/7

New Berlin, WI � April 22, 2011 � If you are a hunter, shooter or angler in the Chicago area and subscribe to Comcast Xfinity service, then you are in luck with the best hyper-local, seasonally-specific on demand programming now available with Sportsman Channel, the leader in outdoor TV for the American Sportsman.

�Sportsman On Demand Illinois� has the best how-to, where-to programming spotlighting Chicago-area fishing waters and hunting grounds. From Angling the Great Lakes to Midwest Whitetail with Bill Winke and Midwest Outdoors Magazine, Sportsman Channel has selected the most informative shows to help Comcast Chicago hunters and anglers.

Currently, �Sportsman On Demand Illinois� is highlighting whitetail hunting shows in Illinois and Wisconsin, salmon and bass fishing on the Great Lakes and dove hunting in

Illinois, to name a few.  Also included are expert tips, gear 

guides, field news and much more.

To access Comcast Xfinity on Demand in Chicago, select channel 1, Get Local and then select Sportsman Channel.

Sportsman Channel is available on Comcast Chicago on channel 416. For more information, visit http://comcast.com or call 800-630-2142

About Sportsman Channel: Launched in 2003, Sportsman Channel is the only television and digital media company fully devoted to the more than 82 million sportsmen in the United States, delivering entertaining and educational programming focused exclusively on hunting, shooting and fishing activities.  Sportsman Channel is now available in HD, check with your local cable or satellite provider.

The Sportsman Channel reaches 27 million U.S. television households and is a part of the nation's largest multimedia company targeted exclusively to serving the information and entertainment needs of outdoors enthusiasts. Visit www.thesportsmanchannel.com

Weekly Great Lakes Water Levels for

April 29, 2011 

WEATHER CONDITIONS

 A lot of moisture has been moving into the Great Lakes basin over the last month.  Precipitation for the basin has been 180% of the average for April which has caused all of the Great Lakes water levels to rise considerably.  Increased precipitation in combination with increased runoff due to melting snow has caused the water levels in a number of rivers across the region to rise significantly.  Temperatures have fluctuated this week, going from above seasonal averages to currently below averages in most areas.  Western areas of the basin will have clear weather on Friday with precipitation returning on Saturday.  The rest of the basin should have clear skies on Saturday with chances of scattered showers returning to start the next week.

LAKE LEVEL CONDITIONS

Currently, Lakes Superior and Michigan-Huron are each 4 inches below their levels of a year ago.  Lake St. Clair is currently 3 inches above its level of a year ago, while Lakes Erie and Ontario are 7 and 14 inches, respectively, higher than last year's levels. Over the next month, Lakes Superior and Michigan-Huron are each expected to rise 3 inches.  Lakes St. Clair, Erie, and Ontario are all predicted to rise 2 inches from their current levels during the next thirty days.  See our Daily Levels web page for more water level information.

FORECASTED MONTHLY OUTFLOWS/CHANNEL CONDITIONS

The outflow from Lake Superior into the St. Mary's River is projected to be below average for the month of April.  The

outflows from Lake Huron into the St. Clair River, and from

Lake St. Clair into the Detroit River, are expected to be below average throughout the month of April, while Lake Erie's outflow through the Niagara River is expected to be near average.  The outflow from Lake Ontario into the St. Lawrence River is predicted to be near average.

ALERTS

The water levels of Lakes Superior and Michigan-Huron are below chart datum.  Lake Superior is forecasted to remain below chart datum until August, and Lake Michigan-Huron is expected to be rise above chart datum over the next month.  Users of the Great Lakes, connecting channels and St. Lawrence River should keep informed of current conditions before undertaking any activities that could be affected by changing water levels.  Mariners should utilize navigation charts and refer to current water level readings.

Posted land limits angler access

Nearly 16 % of United States anglers found one of their fishing spots closed to their use last year, and of that group, the single leading reason cited for that closure was that the area was posted as "no trespassing." The findings were part of a monthly survey of recreational fisherman conducted by AnglerSurvey.com.

Just over 32 percent of survey respondents said the water they fished or the land they used to access a particular body of water had been posted preventing them from fishing that location. The government no longer allows fishing at the location was the second most cited reason, claimed by 23.8 percent of survey respondents. That cause of closure was followed by development of the area by 15.7 percent and then pollution by 7.2 percent. An assortment of lesser or "other" reasons was collectively cited by 32.8 percent. Respondents could provide more than one answer to the question as some anglers may have lost access to more than one fishing location last year.

"These findings should sound an alarm that lost access to the waters they fish is a very real problem for a number of our nation's anglers," said Rob Southwick, president of Southwick Associates, which designs and conducts the surveys at HunterSurvey.com, ShooterSurvey.com and

AnglerSurvey.com. "New lands posted as no trespassing are the top reason, but government closures of boat ramps or waterways due to lack of funds or environmental reasons and development along shorelines also greatly factor into limiting angler access. Once these areas are lost to fishing, it's usually permanent."

Those who hunt, fish and target shoot are invited to participate in the surveys conducted on HunterSurvey.com, ShooterSurvey.com and AnglerSurvey.com. Each month, participants who complete the survey are entered into a drawing for one of five $100 gift certificates to the sporting goods retailer of their choice.

Launched in 2006, AnglerSurvey.com, and HunterSurvey.com, ShooterSurvey.com are non-scientific surveys designed to help the outdoor industry, government fisheries and wildlife officials and conservation organizations track consumer activities and expenditure trends. The information above represents only a small sample of the vast amount of data collected from the complete survey results and available to government agencies, businesses, the media and other interested parties. Results are scientifically weighted to best reflect the attitudes and habits of anglers and hunters across the United States.

Cabela�s opens in Springfield, Ore. May 5

Celebrates 50^th anniversary with 33^rd store opening

SPRINGFIELD, OR-- Cabela�s will officially open the doors of its Springfield, Ore., store � the first in the state � May 5. The opening day festivities, which will begin with live music by local country band Bump in the Road around 2:00 PM., are only the beginning of the company�s celebration of its 33^rd store.

Cabela�s, which this year celebrates its 50^th anniversary, will also hold several giveaways beginning opening day to run through May 15. The company will award more than  $35,000 in prizes, including a New Mexico elk hunting trip, an Alaskan fishing trip, a Cabela�s drift boat, a Browning Citori Cabela�s 50^th anniversary 12-gauge shotgun and other hunting, fishing and camping gear.

The Springfield location is the second of three Cabela�s

stores to open during the outfitter�s golden anniversary year. The Allen, Texas, store opened on April 14 to a large, enthusiastic crowd, and the company expects a similar scene in Springfield. Cabela�s will also open a store in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, this summer.

The 58,000-square-foot Springfield store at 2800 Gateway Street anchors the west side of Gateway Mall in retail space previously occupied by Ashley Furniture. The building�s exterior reflects Cabela�s traditional store model, while the inside highlights the company�s efficient next-generation layout featuring murals of well-known natural features in Oregon such as Crater Lake, as well as trophy animal mounts, including a record-breaking Roosevelt elk taken in Benton County in 2002.

Visit www.cabelas.com/Springfield

May 7 & 8 are Ohio Free Fishing days

A chance to experience Ohio�s great fishing

COLUMBUS, OH - Ohioans are encouraged to take advantage of "Free Fishing Days" on May 7 and 8 and experience the great fishing Ohio has to offer, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. For these two days only, Ohio anglers may fish in any of the state's public waters without having to buy a fishing license.

During the rest of the year, anglers 16 years of age and older are required to have a valid fishing license to take fish, frogs or turtles from Ohio waters. An Ohio fishing license is one of the best recreation bargains available, costing only $19 a year for residents.

Ohio residents born on or before December 31, 1937 can obtain a free fishing license at any license vendor. Residents age 66 and older who were born on or after January 1, 1938 are eligible to obtain a reduced cost ($10) senior fishing license. A one-day fishing license is also available for $11, an amount that later can be applied toward the cost of an annual fishing license. Fishing licenses are available at bait and tackle stores, outdoor outfitters, major department stores, as well as on the Internet at wildohio.com.

Ohio's Free Fishing Days were established in 1993 to promote fishing and allow Ohioans to experience fishing before buying a license. The offer is open to Ohio residents, and extends to all public waters including Lake Erie and the Ohio River. An estimated 1.3 million people fish each year in Ohio.

Great fishing exists around the state and throughout the year. In late winter and early spring, anglers reel in 

excellent catches of steelhead trout and walleye from northern Ohio streams. Spring also means great saugeye and crappie fishing. During the summer months, the fishing heats up on Lake Erie for yellow perch, walleye, and smallmouth bass, while anglers on the Ohio River enjoy excellent striped bass fishing.

The Free Fishing Free Days weekend offers Ohioans of all ages the chance to experience the fun of fishing. For anyone taking a young angler, there's nothing more rewarding than teaching a kid to fish.  Here are some helpful tips:

• Keep it simple. Consider the child's age and skill level. If this is their first time, shore fishing is recommended.

• Kids like to catch fish. The size of fish doesn't matter to kids. But catching a fish�any fish�does. Choose a pond, lake or stream where they will easily be able to catch a few fish.

• Use simple tackle. A good rod and reel for kids costs between $15 and $30.  A spin-cast reel is easy to use and, after a few practice casts, kids usually have mastered it.

• Bring along a camera. Children love to show off pictures of their "big catch." Share your fishing photos at wildohio.com.

• Keep the trip fun-and short. Let the child have a good time, even if it means taking a break. Take time out to explore and enjoy the time together.

• Be patient. Plan on spending some time untangling lines, baiting hooks, landing fish, and taking pictures of big smiles and wiggling fish. By concentrating all your attention on your young angler, you'll likely be developing a fishing buddy for a lifetime.

Hunter's Bag 7,744 Wild Turkeys in first week of season

Season continues until May 15

COLUMBUS, OH - Ohio hunters harvested a preliminary total of 7,744 bearded wild turkeys during the first week of the spring turkey-hunting season, which is open statewide through May 15, according to the Ohio DNR. Top counties for wild turkeys killed last week were: Tuscarawas � 259; Guernsey � 247; Ashtabula � 241; Knox � 238; Harrison � 224; Adams � 213; Coshocton 210; Muskingum � 207; Licking � 199; and Columbiana � 191.

The Division of Wildlife estimates that more than 70,000 people will hunt turkeys during the four-week season. Legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise until noon from April 18 to May 1, 2011. Hunting hours May 2-15 will be a half hour before sunrise to sunset. Ohio's wild turkey population was estimated at 200,000 prior to the start of the spring season.

Only bearded wild turkeys may be taken during the spring hunting season. A hunter is required to check in their turkey by 11 p.m. on the day of harvest. Hunters with the

proper permits may take a limit of two bearded gobblers during the four-week season, but not more than one wild turkey per day.

Hunters must still report their turkey harvest, but they are no longer required to take their turkey to a check station for physical inspection. Instead, hunters have three options to complete the new automated game check:

► On the Internet at www.wildohio.com  or www.ohiogamecheck.com

► By phone at 877-824-4864; this option is only available to those who are required to have a turkey permit to hunt turkeys.

► At all license agents. A list of these agents can be found at www.wildohio.com  

Game-check transactions will be available online and by telephone seven days a week and during holidays.  License agents� locations will be available for turkey check-in during normal business hours.  Please call the license agent for specific hours of operation.  All turkeys must be checked in by 11 p.m. the day of kill. 

Chinook harvests up 47 % in 2010, outlook good for '11

MILWAUKEE -- Lake Michigan anglers had a banner year of chinook fishing in 2010, with favorable winds and other factors helping to increase harvest 47 %, state fishery officials say.

"It looks like our chinook salmon harvest by Wisconsin anglers was really good in 2010," says Brad Eggold, the DNR supervisor for southern Lake Michigan, who just completed analyzing surveys of what anglers caught on that water in 2010. "I don't see any reason that 2011 would not be another solid year."  Eggold found that anglers harvested 315,294 Chinook salmon from Lake Michigan in 2010, up from 214,621 in 2009 and 256,796 in 2008. More good news for Wisconsin anglers: they accounted for the bulk of the lake-wide haul.

"Total Chinook salmon harvest reported by all Lake Michigan state agencies was 531,170 fish. Wisconsin angler harvest comprised 60 % of the total, so we did extremely well in 2010," Eggold says. "It looks like it was very good fishing on our side of the lake in 2010 with favorable wind conditions throughout most of the summer.

"If we get westerly winds and cooler water like we did in 2010, we're going to see good harvests of salmon and trout in 2011."

The 2010 harvest is lower than the average chinook harvest in the preceding five years (344,077) but is much higher than the average from 1988-2001.

Eggold says that the chinook salmon may have benefitted from a large number of young alewives produced in 2010; recent years have seen smaller year-classes of the invasive species. Because of the smaller year-classes of alewives and the overall decrease in the forage base, all the agencies around the lake reduced chinook salmon stocking starting in 2006. "This lakewide reduction in stocking looks like it was a good move and is paying off with better chinook growth and survival," he says.

DNR and counterpart agencies cut stocking levels by 25 percent to better match the number of predators in the lake with the declining forage base. In 1989 the estimated

combined lake-wide biomass of four forage species in Lake Michigan hit a peak of around 770 million pounds, most of it bloater chubs. Today, the total is less than one-seventh that.

In the 1970s, the prime suspect in the decline of native species was alewives where today quagga mussels and zebra mussels are usually blamed for changes in the ecosystem.  The invasive mussels feed on plankton at the base of the food chain. Quagga mussels are considered even more damaging than zebra mussels because they can live in a wider range of water temperatures, water depths, and they feed most of the year, even in winter when zebra mussels lie dormant.

The lake-wide stocking reduction is also showing up in improved condition of the chinook handled at the Strawberry Creek egg collection facility during fall, according to Scott Hansen, DNR fisheries biologist in Sturgeon Bay.  "The lake-wide reduction in stocking has taken full effect now and it seems to be working," he says. "We've started to see the weights creep back up again."

The condition stayed about the same or was slightly down from 2009, but is still significantly better than in 2007, "when we hit historical lows for weight at age for females," Hansen says.  The average weight for 3-year-old-plus females in 2010 was 5.9 kilograms (13 lbs), down slightly from 6.08 kilograms in 2009, but up from 2007's 4.87 kilograms (10.74 lbs).

Fish hatched in the same year the stocking reductions started taking place are now leaving the fishing through harvest or through natural mortality. With fewer mouths to feed, the existing forage base is stretching farther. Sport angler harvest results, also called "creel survey results" are available for other species caught from Lake Michigan on the Lake Michigan management reports pages of the DNR website.

Get e-mail updates with weekly Lake Michigan fishing reports.  Anglers interested in fishing Lake Michigan can see what's biting when by signing up for free e-mail updates from the DNR or by directly visiting the Lake Michigan Outdoor Fishing Report.

Late date for inland fishing opener a keeper for anglers

MADISON - Wisconsin's inland fishing season opens as late as it can possibly on the 2011 calendar -- May 7 -- and that's setting up nicely for anglers, particularly people who fish from shore, and for many mothers across Wisconsin.

"The later opener should lead to warmer temperatures, lower stream flows, and more active fish than typical years," says Mike Staggs, Wisconsin's fisheries director.  "Looks like things are coming together for a good outing Saturday -- and then take your mother fishing for Mother's Day on Sunday!"

The later start this year gives walleye, musky and other game fish a little more time to wrap up spawning and get ready to put on the feedbag, fish biologists say. They'll be

in close to shore, giving shore anglers a chance to find

them in the weeds.  DNR fish crews out on lakes and rivers in recent weeks to assess fish populations are reporting nice catches. The crews weigh, measure and tag fish they capture in nets or by using electro-fishing boats before returning them to the lake or river.

"We've been on Lake Wissota sampling and we've marked a lot of fish and have seen a lot of nice fish out there, a lot of walleye in the 20-plus inch range," says Bob Hujik, fish supervisor for west central Wisconsin. "There's going to be a lot of good action this year."

Fishing forecasts for specific waters are available in the 2011 Wisconsin Fishing Report. These reports, filed by fish biologists, use past survey results to predict the kind of fish populations anglers will find in many of their favorite waters.

New one day fishing license available

New this year Wisconsin is offering a one-day fishing license that allows people to try fishing, and if they like it, to upgrade to an annual license. The one day license is $8 for residents and $10 for nonresidents.

"This is a good entry level license that lets you do everything but fish for the premium species of trout and salmon," Staggs says. "It's a great way to introduce a friend or family member to the fun of fishing." The one-day license is good until midnight on the day it is purchased.

People can buy this new license and the 20 other different

fishing licenses DNR offers in three convenient ways:

1. Over the Internet through the DNR Online Licensing Center;

2. From one of the 1,500 DNR license vendors/; or

3. By calling toll-free 1-877-WI LICENSE (1-877-945-4236).

Wisconsin residents and nonresidents 16 years old or older need a fishing license to fish in any waters of the state. Residents born before Jan. 1, 1927, do not need a license and resident members of the U.S. Armed Forces on active duty are entitled to obtain a free fishing license when on furlough or leave.

Governor�s Fishing Opener in Chippewa County

The 46th Governor�s Fishing Opener, officially kicking off Wisconsin�s big game fishing season, takes place at Lake Wissota in Jackson County on Saturday, May 7. Gov. Scott Walker has been invited to reel in a fish at his first opener as governor -- a feat that has eluded many previous governors since Governor Warren Knowles started the tradition in 1965.

The angling event is held at various locations in western and northern Wisconsin each year and is sponsored by the Wisconsin Indianhead Country Tourism group. This event is also by invitation only to key people in the media and state and local government officials.

Wild Rose Renovation

After carrying up to 50 tons of fish every year for more than 100 years, Wild Rose was showing its age. With much needed renovation now underway, the historic memories are being preserved and a new era is beginning.  Wild Rose is a reliable workhorse that's been delivering fishing fun and enhancing and restoring fish populations in Wisconsin for more than a century.

Wild Rose State Fish hatchery grows more trout and salmon than any other and will eventually produce musky, sturgeon and walleye to test anglers statewide.  With the completion of the new coldwater facilities, Wild Rose is currently producing brown trout, Chinook and Coho salmon and in the near future, rainbow trout. With the cool-water facilities completed, Wild Rose resumed production of northern pike, walleye, lake sturgeon, tiger and great lakes spotted musky, in addition to raising suckers and minnows for forage.

Wild Rose State Fish Hatchery is critical to Wisconsin's $2.75 billion sport fishery. The hatchery is particularly important to great Lake Michigan fishing; 100 % of the coldwater fish (trout and salmon) raised at Wild Rose are stocked into the big pond. Lake Michigan has been considered a "world-class" fishery and thanks to the renovations of Wild Rose, we can be confident that it will live up to its reputation.

Year in, year out, Wild Rose produces more than 2 million trout and salmon for stocking; and it's one of only 3 hatcheries to raise both cold and cool-water fish.

For more info:

• Hatchery renovation is coming up roses

• First sturgeon stocked from renovated Wild Rose Hatchery