HuntingNY-News

<p> After a lull, salmon are starting up the Salmon River again. Many are in the middle to lower river. Fish from Pineville on down. The lower fly fishing-only stretch opens Sunday. </p> <p><strong>CNY FISHING REPORT</strong></p> <p><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=100355764367821392533.00048c1449e56444f07e7&z=7">Bait stores (list and map).</a></p> <p><strong>LAKE ONTARIO</strong><br />Salmon are gathering around the tributaries getting ready for the their spawning runs. Fishing has been tough lately on the lake because of high winds. When anglers can get out they've been doing well. It's been spotty, though, as far as depth. Good baits continue to be spoons, flashers and cut-bait, and flashers and flies. At the mouth of the tributaries, good lures have been Red Eyes or Moonshine lures.</p> <p><strong> SALMON RIVER</strong><br />Fish are starting up the river again. Many are in the middle to lower river. Fish from Pineville on down. The lower fly fishing-only stretch opens Sunday.</p> <p><strong>OSWEGO RIVER </strong><br />The river is down. Smallmouth bass are biting crankbaits, minnows, crayfish and spinnerbaits. There have been a few early salmon reported in the river but things remain slow at this time.</p> <p><strong>ONEIDA LAKE </strong><br />The perch fishing has been the highlight lately. They're biting on fathead minnows and worms. Try fishing in 12 to 18 feet of water off the shoals and points, anchor and fish vertically with your bait down about a foot off the bottom. No reports on anglers catching walleyes from shore on stickbaits yet. It's still too early.</p> <p><strong>CAYUGA LAKE</strong> <br />Vertical jigging has been working for lake trout with fish being found in 65 to110 foot of water. Trolling down 70 to 80 feet over 250 to 300 foot of water with spoons or flasher and flies is also producing some lake trout.</p> <p><strong>SENECA LAKE</strong><br />Lake trout are being taken 80 to 120 feet down over 130 to 200 feet of water on spoons and flasher and flies. Running Dipseys back 230 to 270 feet has been a good starting point, as is running copper out 300 feet. Brown trout and Atlantic salmon are being caught 50 to 70 feet down on spoons or flasher and flies. Perch are being caught by anglers using fathead minnows in about 20 to 30 feet of water.</p> <p><strong>OWASCO LAKE</strong><br />Smallmouth bass are hitting crayfish or drop-shot rigs fished in 25 to 30 feet of water. Some yellow perch are being taken on minnows and night crawlers. A few lake trout are being taken by anglers trolling spoons or flasher and flies in 90 feet of water. Vertical jigging is also producing a few lake trout.</p> <p><strong>OTISCO LAKE</strong><br />Some bass are being caught on crayfish off the causeway and also on stickbaits at the north end. Stickbaits are also producing a few tiger musky on the north end.</p> <p><strong>SKANEATELES LAKE</strong><br />Live bait (crayfish and night crawlers) are working well for smallmouth bass, yellow perch and rock bass in 12 to 18 feet of water. Crayfish are working the best.</p> <p><strong>SANDY POND:</strong><br />Fishing continues to be slow on the pond, but fishing early or late in the day is still producing some largemouth bass.</p> <p><strong>ST. LAWRENCE RIVER </strong><br />Anglers are catching lots of northern pike on Rapala Huskie Jerk lures or live bait (minnows) just outside the weed beds in about 20 feet. Bass are being in 25 to 30 feet of water on crayfish. Walleye bite has picked up lately along "the humps." A good lure for them is the Reef Runner or green Jigfish.</p> <p><strong>SODUS BAY</strong><br />Fishing the outside weed edges has been working for largemouth. Good baits have been crankbaits and plastic worms. A few northern pike are also being caught.</p> <p><strong>WHITNEY POINT RESERVOIR </strong><br />Water is clearing. Anglers report catching lots of channel catfish. Lots of small walleyes and panfish are also being caught. Bass anglers are also having a lot of luck fishing the shorelines, casting plastics and crankbaits.</p> <p><strong>** The DEC is looking for participants in its Angler Diary Cooperator Program - particularly those who fish Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles and Otisco Lakes. For more, call 1-607-753-3095, extension 213.</strong></p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

It's being held on National Hunting and Fishing Day. In addition to a tour of the facility,k the hatchery is offering all sorts of family-oriented activities. The state Department of Environmental Conservation's Salmon River hatchery in Altmar, Oswego will be hosting its 18th annual open house on Sept. 28. The event is being held in conjunction with National Hunting and Fishing Day. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., families can enjoy a full day of children's activities, fishing seminars and outdoor programs. Some of these activities include: • Access working parts of the hatchery with a personal tour • Watch migrating salmon in the fish ladder through the underwater camera Learn about rare and endangered fish • Enjoy fun games for children, such as the popular "Backyard Bass" and "Hook and Ladders" fishing games • Learn how to cast a fishing rod, tie flies, and fly cast and fly fish along the beautiful scenery of the Salmon River Corridor. Guests can also visit the near the nearby Salmon River Falls, a DEC Unique Area located four miles from the hatchery. The 110-foot waterfall offers trails and viewing areas with spectacular scenery. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

The annual fall gun show hosted by the New York State Arms Collectors Association and the annual fall ski and snowboard sale are being held. Two events are scheduled this weekend at the state Fairgrounds in Geddes that should appeal to the shooting and skiing crowds. The annual fall gun show hosted by the New York State Arms Collectors Association is set for Saturday and Sunday in the Center of Progress Building Show organizers tout it as "the biggest show" in the state, and note this year it's celebrating its 50th anniversary in Syracuse. "More than 1,000 tables featuring things for sale, exhibits and displays will be provided by our collectors and dealers from all over the United States and Canada," said Sandy Ackerman, the show's manager. Admission is $6 per day, $5 for senior citizens and children under 12, with parents, free. The show will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Mike Quirk, right, and 5- year-old son,Nathan Quirk, skiing last winter at Song Mountain, Preble, Dick Blume | [email protected] If firearms aren't your fancy, check out the annual fall ski and board sale set for Friday, Saturday and Sunday in the Horticulture Building. The show is being sponsored by major ski and snowboard shops in Central and Western New York, local ski and snowboard resorts and a number of ski and snowboard companies. Admission is free. The show is scheduled for 4 to 9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. The event will feature more than 2,000 items priced under $99. In addition, there will be a trade-in booth where persons can bring in old items and receive a credit to use at the sale. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

Wilson said the event went smoothly and there were no anti-hunting types around. He said more than $5,000 was raised by the event that will be donated to charity. Remember Joe Wilson, the president of Squirrels Unlimited I interviewed recently? Well, his group held its World Championship Squirrel Cook-Off in Bentonville, Ark. and the Wall Street Journal took note. "This year's culinary creations ranged from squirrel with cashews and spring rolls to Caribbean jerk squirrel and fried plantains. The dishes were a step up in sophistication from last year's fare, which included squirrel jalapeÃo cheese poppers and minced squirrel brains with cream cheese in pastry dough," the WSJ article said. "Still, the same winning duo as last year, brothers Brandon and Blayne Estes, once again took home the $500 prize and bragging rights with a simpler, more countrified entry: squirrel sausage.," I talked to Wilson this afternoon and he said the event went smoothly, noting there were no anti-hunting types or protests at the scene. He said more than $5,000 was raised. It will be donated to charity, he said. See the full story. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> The pheasant hunting season begins on Oct. 1 in northern and eastern portions of New York, Oct. 19 in central and western portions, and Nov. 1 on Long Island. </p> <p></p> <p><strong>The following is a DEC press release:</strong></p> <p>Approximately 30,000 adult pheasants will be released on lands open to public hunting for the upcoming fall pheasant hunting season, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced today.</p> <p>The pheasant hunting season begins on Oct. 1 in northern and eastern portions of New York, Oct.19 in central and western portions, and Nov.1 on Long Island.</p> <p>For the seventh consecutive year, junior hunters (12-15 years old) have the opportunity to hunt pheasants the weekend prior to the regular pheasant hunting season.</p> <p>In western New York, the youth pheasant hunt weekend is Oct.12-13. In northern and eastern New York, the youth pheasant hunt weekend is Sept.28-29, and on Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk counties) it is Oct.26-27.</p> <p>Pheasants will be released on a number of selected release sites across the state to provide ample hunting opportunities for junior hunters. All current pheasant hunting rules and regulations remain in effect during the youth hunt.</p> <p><strong>Note that a 2012-13 hunting license is required to hunt during September, and a 2013-14 license is required starting October 1.</strong></p> <p>All release sites for pheasants provided by state-funded programs are open to public hunting. Pheasants will be released on state-owned lands prior to and during the fall hunting season, and thanks to a partnership with New York City Department of Environmental Protection, at a number of sites on New York City Watershed lands.</p> <p>Pheasant hunting opportunities have also been augmented by private landowners who have opened their land to public hunting. DEC is grateful for their help in providing a high quality hunting experience for New York's sportsmen and sportswomen. A list of statewide pheasant release sites and sites receiving birds for the youth-only pheasant hunt weekends can be found on DEC's website.</p> <p>The Day-old Pheasant Chick Program provides additional opportunities for pheasant hunters. This program was developed in the early 1900s to provide day-old pheasant chicks to cooperating 4-H groups and sportsmen and sportswomen.</p> <p> The chicks are distributed to program participants in May and June, and cooperators incur all costs associated with rearing the birds, including feed, water, utilities and facility construction. The birds are raised to adulthood and released on lands open to public hunting before the season opens. </p> <p>This year, more than 41,000 pheasant chicks were distributed statewide as part of this program. Anyone interested in raising and releasing pheasants to expand next year's hunting opportunities should contact DEC's Reynolds Game Farm at (607) 273-2768.</p> <p>Boundaries for pheasant hunting zones conform to Wildlife Management Units used for management of other upland wildlife. Wildlife Management Unit boundary descriptions can be found on the DEC website.</p> <p>In addition to knowing these unit boundary descriptions, hunters should review the 2013-14 New York Hunting & Trapping Guide for complete regulations and other important information before going afield. Hunters who plan to use private lands should ask permission from the landowner.</p> <p>For more information, <a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/37136.html">visit the DEC website</a>:<br />2013-14 New York Hunting & Trapping Regulations Guide.</p> <p>See more information on <a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/8363.html">pheasant hunting</a>.</p> <p>See more on <a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/29453.html">pheasant hunt seasons</a>.</p> <p>See more on <a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/9349.html">pheasant release sites.</a><br /></p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> The club is training and certifying IDPA sanctioned safety officers to run matches which will be hosted every second Sunday of the month. Plans are also underway to add an introduction to IDPA seminar for the growing number of women who are now first time firearms owners. </p> <p><strong>The following is a press release:</strong></p> <p>BERRYVILLE, Ark. - The International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) has added a new club, Pathfinder Fish & Game located in Fulton, N.Y.</p> <p>Pathfinder Fish & Game is well known among Mid-Atlantic area competition shooters who have frequented the club to compete in the variety of shooting sports it hosts. Adding the very popular IDPA expands the club's offerings to better support the local shooting community.</p> <p>"Pathfinder Fish & Game is excited to add another great recreational shooting activity for our members," said Bob Russell, the club's IDPA contact. "With the rapid growth of IDPA, coupled with the increase in the number of concealed carry permit holders, there is a real need for a defensive-style competitive shooting format for those looking to test their skills."</p> <p>The club is training and certifying IDPA sanctioned safety officers to run matches which will be hosted every second Sunday of the month, April through November. In addition to monthly competition, plans are underway to add an introduction to IDPA seminar for the growing number of women who are now first time firearms owners.</p> <p>This club will be the closest IDPA club within a 90-minute drive from Syracuse.</p> <p>For additional information <a href="http://www.pathfinderfishandgame.com">visit the club's website</a> or contact Pathfinder's IDPA Club Coordinator Bob Russell at <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the International Defensive Pistol Association, or to join its 22,000 members, <a href="http://www.idpa.com">visit the group's website</a>.<br /></p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

A total of 27 teams competed (115 birders in all) in the competition that began at 7 p.m. Friday and ended 7 p.m. Saturday. Watch video The results are in from this past weekend's 17th Annual Montezuma Muckrace held at the Montezuma Wetlands Complex. A total of 27 teams competed (115 birders in all) in the competition that began at 7 p.m. Friday and ended 7 p.m. Saturday. The event is a fundraiser for habitat restoration in the wetlands complex or projects that increase access for birders. The final tally for the amount of money raised won't be available until the end of the month. See the story from this past weekend. The winner in the prestigious competitive division was the Terradromas (Benjamin VanDoren, Ben Barkley, Andy Johnson,Hope Batcheller, Luke Seitz) who saw or heard 139 species during the 24-hour period. See the top teams and team members in all the categories, which include competitive, recreational, lo-carbon and family. list_MuckraceStandings_13.pdf View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

The DEC website describes this species as a "living fossi." Submitted photo Bob Kuzawski, of Oswego, holds up a longnose gar he caught recently while fishing on Little Sodus Bay on Lake Ontario. Breezy AuClair, who was with him at the time, wrote: "Bob caught what is according to the DEC website a living fossil. " I personally in fishing for 50 years have only seen one and this is the first one I've ever seen caught. It was approximately 2 feet long and was released after this photo was taken." View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

The Bubble Blast Run Saturday at Onondaga Community College features obstacles like "the human washing machine", the "sudsy slip and slide" and bubble blast laser tag. This weekend's running scene offers competitors their pick of 5K races, beginning Friday evening and continuing through Sunday. There's also a 3K run at Onondaga Community College featuring lots of bubbles and an 18- mile relay around Otisco Lake. THIS WEEKEND'S RACES 1).The Vineyard 5K:, 6:30 p.m. Friday, 312 Lakeside Road, Geddes. For more, see vineyardny.org or call 407-8463. Fun run for children at 6 p.m. 2). Little Moe 5K Walk/Run to benefit horse rescue at the CNY SPCA:, 9 a.m. Saturday, Lorenzo Historic Site, 17 Rippleton Road, Cazenovia. For more, see skandaequine.com. 3). Rod Squad Relay: 10 a.m. Saturday, Otisco Lake Community Center, Marietta. 18-mile relay race around Otisco Lake. Competitors can either race individually or as a team. For more, email [email protected] or see histio.org/rodsquadrelay. 4). Baldwinsville Oktoberfest 5K Run/Walk: 5 p.m. Saturday, Tappan Street (Near Paper Mill Island) in Baldwinsville. For more, see baldwinsvilleoktoberfest.com/race. 5). Bubble Blast Run: 10 a.m. Saturday, Onondaga Community College. A wacky, sudsy, 3K fun run that includes obstacles like "the human washing machine", the "sudsy slip and slide" and bubble blast laser tag. For more, see bubbleblastrun.com. 6). Strathmore Parks Run 2013: 11 a.m. Sunday, Onondaga Park (Strathmore Neighborhood). A 4 mile run. For more, see, strathmoreparksrun.com. 7). Tuff eNuff Challege: 9 a.m. Sunday, Greek Peak, Mountain Resort, Virgil. Features 5 and 10 K courses with obstacles. For more, see tuffenuff.greekpeak.net. . Cortland Chiro 5K: 9 a.m. Sunday. Course starts near entrance of SUNY Cortland. For more, see cortlandymca.org. 9). Breathe Deep CNY 5K: 10 a.m. Sunday, 371 Long Branch Road, Long Branch Park, Liverpool. For more, see lungevity.org. LAST WEEKEND'S RESULTS 1). Dunkin Run ARC Race: A 5K, half marathon and half marathon for wheelchairs held Saturday morning at Long Branch Park, Liverpool. For results, see fleetfeetsyracuse.com. 2). Cazenovia County Trail Run: A 4,800-meter trail run through woods, fields and small streams held Saturday at Fenner Road Athletic Complex, Cazenovia . For results, see the event website or link on syracuse.com/outdoors. 3). Mustang Stampede: Featured 5 and 10 K runs held Sunday at Onondaga Lake Park (Willow Bay end). For results, see fleetfeetsyracuse.com View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

Wildlife biologists from the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and DEC will discuss items of interest to waterfowl hunters in an informational and interactive forum. The state Department of Environmental Conservation has scheduled an informational meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the Montezuma Audubon Center in Savannah. The meeting will focus on topics of interest to waterfowl hunters in the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge region. Topics will include: - Highlights of waterfowl management and research programs at Montezuma NWR and Northern Montezuma WMA: - Regional and statewide waterfowl news and updates; - Atlantic Flyway news; - Waterfowl population status survey results; - New York waterfowl hunting season-setting process; and, - Tentative 2013-14 duck and goose hunting seasons. Wildlife biologists from the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and DEC will discuss items of interest to waterfowl hunters in an informational and interactive forum.They will present results of local and international surveys of waterfowl breeding populations and discuss habitat conditions and habitat management efforts. Updates of waterfowl management issues in the Atlantic Flyway will also be presented, and this year's tentative waterfowl hunting seasons and bag limits will be discussed. The Montezuma Audubon Center is located at 2295 Route 89 in Savannah. The center's phone number is (315) 365-3580. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> "There. A black-billed cuckoo just flew into that area with the tent caterpillar nests. I can see its tail," said one competitor. </p> <p><br />Jim Norwalk pointed toward the top of several locust trees on a wooded path near the Montezuma Audubon Center in Savannah.</p> <p>"There. A black-billed cuckoo just flew into that area with the tent caterpillar nests," he said. "I can see its tail."</p> <p>A little further down the trail, Chuck Gibson spotted a ruby-throated hummingbird perched on a branch about 10 yards off the path.</p> <p>"Good eye," Norwalk said.</p> <div id="asset-13367582" class="entry_widget_large entry_widget_right"><span class="adv-photo-large"><img src="/static/common/img/blank.gif" class="lazy" data-original="http://media.syracuse.com/outdoors/photo/13367582-large.jpg" class="adv-photo" alt="yellow (1).jpg" /><span class="photo-data"><span class="caption">A common yellow throat spotted on the grounds of the Montezuma Audubon Center.</span><span class="byline">Jonathan Kresege photo</span></span></span> </div> <p>Norwalk and Gibson, along with friends, David Schneider , and Steve Benedict, are members of the Bobolinks, one of 27 teams competing in the 17th annual Montezuma Muckrace at the Montezuma Wetlands Complex. The 24-hour competitive birding competition began at 7 p.m. Friday and ends at 7 p.m. today.</p> <p>The event is a fund-raiser put on by the Friends of the Montezuma Wetlands, the state Department of Environmental Conservation, Audubon New York and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Money raised by the competition will go toward improving habitat or bird-watching opportunities in the area.</p> <p>The teams are entered in under several categories (competitive, recreational, low carbon, family and Youth). The goal is to see or hear as many bird species as possible during the contest. Last year's winner, Gallinagos, sponsored by the Cayuga Bird Club, logged 134 species. </p> <p>The event was made possible by more than 25 sponsors. Money was also raised through pledges sought by participants. Prizes are awarded to the team that raises the most money and to those teams that record the highest number of species.</p> <p>The competition is limited to the 242-square-mile Montezuma Wetlands Complex, which is also referred to as the Montezuma Focus Area. It includes federal, state and Nature Conservancy-owned lands, with the largest tract being the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.</p> <div id="asset-13367599" class="entry_widget_large entry_widget_left"><span class="adv-photo-large"><img src="/static/common/img/blank.gif" class="lazy" data-original="http://media.syracuse.com/outdoors/photo/13367599-large.jpg" class="adv-photo" alt="2013-9-7-montezuma3.jpg" /><span class="photo-data"><span class="caption">Trumpeter swans spotted in a pond at the Montezuma Audubon Center.</span><span class="byline">Jonathan Kresege photo</span></span></span> </div> <p>The Bobolinks, competing in the recreational division, started their tally Friday evening. Gibson and Benedict got out for a couple of hours on land near the Montezuma Wildlife Refuge. They counted 18 different birds.</p> <p>"We were hoping to see a black-crowned night heron, but we never saw it," Gibson said. "We may get one, though, before today is over."</p> <p>The full Bobolink team assembled at 7 a.m. this morning at the Montezuma Audubon Center, walking through the wooded area, and afterward alongside two ponds and a large field. They talked quietly along the way, but often stopped to look and listen - constantly pointing their binoculars and spotting scopes where they saw movement or felt a bird might be.</p> <p>Along the wooded path, they passed Team Sittidae (a species of nuthatch) comprised of Anita Messina, of Port Byron; Jackie Bakker, of Stanley and Linda Potter, of Skaneateles. The three women were competing in the Lo Carbon division.</p> <div id="asset-13367610" class="entry_widget_large entry_widget_right"><span class="adv-photo-large"><img src="/static/common/img/blank.gif" class="lazy" data-original="http://media.syracuse.com/outdoors/photo/13367610-large.jpg" class="adv-photo" alt="2013-9-7-montezuma4.jpg" /><span class="photo-data"><span class="caption">Anita Messina, of Port Byron, and Jackie Bakker, of Stanley, members of Team Sittidae, check out the birds at the Montezuma Audubon Center.</span><span class="byline">David Figura | [email protected]</span></span></span> </div> <p>"We don't drive anywhere," said Messina. "We're just walking around."</p> <p>In one of the ponds, Parker spotted a green heron.</p> <p>"Nice," Schneider said.</p> <p>Soon after, a pair of trumpeter swans flew in and landed on the water.</p> <p>Benedict then spotted a small marsh hen. Other birds noted by the team on the ponds included lesser yellowlegs, a pied-billed grebe, semipalmated sandpipers, semipalmated plovers and a snipe.</p> <p>Gibson trained his spotting scope on a dead tree several hundred yards away. "I just got a northern flicker," he said. "You can't miss it with the white patch on his rump."</p> <div id="asset-13367617" class="entry_widget_large entry_widget_right"><span class="adv-photo-large"><img src="/static/common/img/blank.gif" class="lazy" data-original="http://media.syracuse.com/outdoors/photo/13367617-large.jpg" class="adv-photo" alt="2013-9-7-montezuma1.jpg" /><span class="photo-data"><span class="caption">Chuck Gibson cups his hands around his ears to check out a bird he just heard.</span><span class="byline">David Figura | [email protected]</span></span></span> </div> <p>From there, the Bobolinks hopped in Norwalk's SUV and drove toward Howland's Island, stopping at several spots along the way - including in front of a house in a residential area in Savannah with a well-used bird feeder. There, they saw a house finch, a goldfinch, a nuthatch, a downy woodpecker and a mourning dove.</p> <p>They were rewarded at Howland's Island, adding to list such birds as a kestrel, purple martin, cedar waxwing and a magnolia warbler.</p> <p>"This is a good place to look for warblers," Norwalk said. "There's plenty lots of old deciduous trees and and wetlands with lots of bugs."</p> <div id="asset-13367690" class="entry_widget_large entry_widget_right"><span class="adv-photo-large"><img src="/static/common/img/blank.gif" class="lazy" data-original="http://media.syracuse.com/outdoors/photo/13367690-large.jpg" class="adv-photo" alt="2103-9-7-montezuma5.jpg" /><span class="photo-data"><span class="caption">A black-capped chickadee seen on the grounds of the Montezuma Audubon Center. </span><span class="byline">Jonathan Kresege photo</span></span></span> </div> <p>The highlight of the morning was the sighting of an olive-sided flycatcher.</p> <p>"That will probably be our best one all day," Gibson noted, showing his teammates a close-up, frontal look of the bird on his spotting scope.</p> <p>The Bobolinks shared their find with the Mad- Capped Chicadees, a three-woman team who happened to be nearby. The ladies, who described themselves as "The DEC Girls," were Bonnie Parker, of Manlius; Jenny Landry of Livonia and Kathy Kirsch, of Canandaigua.</p> <p>The ladies said their highlight was not the seeing, but the hearing of a great horned owl.</p> <p>"We heard it in the woods getting mobbed by a bunch of other birds," said Parker, noting her team was in the competitive division.</p> <p>This year's contest was a bit more comfortable for the participants. The reason, Gibson said, was there was seemed to be less bugs.</p> <div id="asset-13367644" class="entry_widget_large entry_widget_right"><span class="adv-photo-large"><img src="/static/common/img/blank.gif" class="lazy" data-original="http://media.syracuse.com/outdoors/photo/13367644-large.jpg" class="adv-photo" alt="2013-9-7-montezumatrophy.jpg" /><span class="photo-data"><span class="caption">The winning team in the competitive division wins this trophy/plaque, which must be returned for next year's competition.</span><span class="byline">David Figura | [email protected]</span></span></span> </div> <p>"The cold snap may have chilled the mosquitos," he said. "I few years back they'd get you as soon as you got out of the car."</p> <p>The teams have until 7 p.m. to submit their lists at the Montezuma Audubon Center, where competitors will grab a bite to eat and enjoy recapping highlights of the day. The winning team in the competitive division will win a trophy/plaque and the first opportunity to pick from a table of prizes supplied by sponsors.</p> <p><strong>TEAM NAMES</strong></p> <p>There's 115 birder competing in this year's Montezuma Muckrace. Part of the fun of competing is the camaraderie and all the funny team names:</p> <p>This year's teams include: The Bleary-eyed Vireos, Bobolinks, Buffleheads, County Crows, Fuddy Ruddies, Lookin4Hooters, LoonAtics, Mad-Capped Chicadees, Mottled Mucks, Mucky Ducks, No rEgrets, Stork Raven Mad, Team Geneseedeaters, Mommazuma & Malerds, Team Sittidae, Terradoma, The Decarbonated Swamp-Warblers, The Lime Howlers, The Plucky Mucksters, The Shutterbirds, The Tanagers, Tyrannus Tyrannus, Craniacs, What The Flock!, Wing Birders, Winging It, Woodscocks and Volunteers at the MAC</p> <p> </p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> It's a bryozoan colony. </p> <p>Each week I get a lot of questions from readers about fish, wildlife and the outdoors in general. Sometimes I can answer the questions. Sometimes I have to do a little research or tap into one of my expert sources to get the answer.</p> <p>This week's question comes from Robert Schotthoefer, of Solvay, concerning a photo taken by his daugher, Lisa Kimball, of Liverpool.</p> <p>Schotthoefer wrote: "My daughter took this picture today on Oneida Lake. Any ideas?"</p> <p>Frankly, I had no idea. I emailed a source of mine in the state Department of Conservation.</p> <p>"Its a bryozoan colony," he responded. </p> <p><a href="http://www.bio.umass.edu/biology/conn.rive">According to a University of Massachusetts website</a> that my source referred me to, bryozoa are small, microscopic marine animals that group together in colonies, forming masses like those shown in the picture. They appear to be coral-like, but are "ecological analogs. Bryozoans and corals are in different phyla and are unrelated." </p> <p>The bryozoa (also called zooids or moss animals) are aquatic invertebrates typically measuring about 0.5 millimetres (0.020 in) long. They're filter feeders that take tiny food particles out of the water using a retractable lophophore, a "crown" of tentacles lined with cilia.</p> <p>"The colony is gelatinous, firm and slimy to the touch," the website said. "The inner gelatinous mass is 99% water. The surface appears divided into rosettes, each with 12-18 zooids. Massive colonies may exceed 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter, although more typical sizes are 1 foot or less. The colonies form on submerged logs, twigs, even wooden docks."</p> <p><a href="http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/bryozoa/bryozoalh.html">According to a UC Berkeley website,</a> "They feed on small microorganisms, including diatoms and other unicellular algae."</p> <p>One more interesting fact. These little critters have both ovaries and testes, meaning they can reproduce sexually or asexually. </p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

All the fish were caught off the son's boat fishing out of Fair Haven. Michael Juskow and his 30-pounder.Submitted photo Michael Juskow, of Pennellville, sent in these photos of nice salmon and he and his mother caught on two separate trips in his boat out of Fair Haven on Lake Ontario. In the first one, Juskow is pictured holding a chinook that weighed 30.09 pounds. "It hit a White custom taped Spin Dr/ATOMMIK Hammer fly on a 120 rigger over 150 feet of water. I was fishing with my uncle and my father on this day. It was one of six we caught that day. Pat Juskow and her 26-pounder.Submitted photo The other picture is of Juskow's mom, Pat Juskow of Cicero, with her first ever chinook, also caught out of Juskow's boat near Fair Haven on a separate trip. "This fish weighed 26.5 pounds and was one of two she caught that night," he said. "This fish also came off a downrigger at 90 down over 230 feet of water and hit a green flasher green fly. The other fish she caught was 22 pounds and came off a 600-foot copper pulled off a board." View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

This weekend's offerings include a fur trappers rendezvous, a sportsmen's day and a picnic/fundraiser by the Crossbow Coalition group CNY OUTDOORS CALENDAR Fur trappers rendezvous: Begins at 10 a.m. Sunday, Solon Sportsmen's Club, Route 41, east of McGraw. Activities include trapping and fur-handling demonstration, games and auctions. Call 607-756-6763. Sportsman's Day: Sunday, Fayetteville-Manlius Rod and Gun Club, 4545 Whetstone Road, Manlius. Register for 3-D archery competition from 8 to 11 a.m.; barbecue from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., .22 silhouette shoot, raffles. For more, see fmrgc.com. Crossbow Coalition picnic/fundraiser: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Baldwinsville Rod and Gun Club, 1405 Kingdom Road, Baldwinsville. Will include crossbow demonstrations and open shooting. Try one of the demonstration crossbows. Cost is $20 per person, $35 per couple; 12 and under $5 and 6 and under free. Call 882-1540 or 247-5141. Birds of Africa lecture: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Manlius Public Library, 1 Arkie Albanese Way, Manlius. Jeffrey Freedman, avid birder, traveler, photographer and associate professor of physiology at Upstate Medical, will discuss the ecological niches filled by some of the birds he has photographed in Africa and the similar niches filled by birds here in the northeastern U.S. See onondagaudubon.com. Women in Nature seminars: 1). Fly fishing -- 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 14, 15, Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery, Route 321, Elbridge. Cost is $50. To register, call 558-2464 or email [email protected]. 2). Outdoor Self Protection - 6 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 19, Camillus Sportsmen's Club, Devoe Road, Camillus. Rain date is Sept. 26. Pre-register by emailing [email protected]. SHOTS banquet: Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Rusty Rail, Route 5, Canastota. The SHOTS (Sportspeople Helping Others Through Sharing) banquet features the awarding of prizes and raises money for children and handicapped sportsmen. For more, call 716-2373 or see SHOTSinc.org. Syracuse Pistol Club open house: 6:30 p.m. Sept. 18. Starts with a tour of the facility, followed up by review of membership requirements and question and answer period. The club is located at 8042 Henry Clay Blvd, Clay. For more, see syracusepistolclub.net. Waterfowl identification course: 2:30 to 6 p.m. Sept. 21, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. This class is for both youth and parent/guardian who wish to participate in the up-coming youth hunt at the refuge. Space is limited to the first 30 participants to sign up. To register, call the refuge at 568-5987. Proof of course completion is required to hunt waterfowl on the refuge. The refuge is located at 3395 U.S. Route 20 East, Seneca Falls. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

There's always a rush to sign up for these courses this time of year. My recommendation: Don't wait or you'll miss out. I always get questions on safety courses this time of year. Here's what I know at this point. My recommendation: Don't wait or you'll miss out. Trapper: 8 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Mad River Club, County Route 15, Lacona. Pre-register. Call 387-6559. Bowhunter: 8 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Wildwood Sports Center, Fikes Road, Memphis. Pre-register. Call 689-1066. Hunter: 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 10, 8 a.m. until done Sept. 15, Vernon National Shooting Preserve, 3291 Burns Road, Vernon Center. Pre-register in person at the preserve at 7 p.m. Sunday. Hunter: 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 12 and 8 a.m. until done Sept. 14, Canastota Conservation Club, 8324 Warners Road, Canastota. Pre-register at the club between 10 a.m. and noon Saturday. Hunter: 5:55 to 9 p.m. Sept. 13 and 8 a.m. until done Sept. 14, Mountainside Outdoor Supply, 5972 Rte. 11, Homer. Pre-register! Call 607-749-5714. Hunter: 6 to 9:30 a.m. Sept. 17 and 19 and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 21, Fayetteville-Manlius Rod and Gun Club, 4545 Whetstone Road, Manlius. Pre-register in person at the club between 10 a.m. and noon Sept. 14. Class size is limited to 50. Hunter: 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 17, 19 and 8 a.m. until done Sept. 21, Lansing Rod and Gun Club, 55 Salmon Creek Road, Lansing. Pre-register in person at the Lansing town clerk's office, 29 Auburn Road, Lansing. Class size is limited to 40. Hunter: 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 18 and 19 and 8 a.m. to completion Sept. 21, Redfield Fish and Game Club, Harvester Mills Road, Redfield. Pre-register. Call 652-7095. Trapper: 5 to 9 p.m. Sept. 18 and 19, Deerfield Fish and Game Club, 11400 Cruikshank Road. Pre-register. Call 735-1902. Trapper: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 21, Camp Zerbe, Route 104, Williamstown. Pre-register. Call 343-6953. Hunter: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 21, Boonville Rod and Gun Club, 9845 Smith Road. This is a home study course. This class requires five or more hours of homework before the class sessions. Pre-register at the Boonville Town Clerk's office between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. up until Sept. 13. Hunter: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 21 and 8:30 to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 22, Eatonbrook Rod and Gun Club, 4900 Wilcox Road, West Eaton. Pre-register at the club between 6 and 8 p.m. Sept. 16. Bowhunter: 9 a.m. until done Sept. 21, Archery By George, 901 Floyd Avenue, Rome. Pre-register. Call 339-5223. Bowhunter: 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Sept. 22, Deerfield Fish and Game Club, 11400 Cruikshank Road. Pre-register. Call 724-7864. Hunter: 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 23, 26 and 8 a.m. to noon Sept. 28 McGraw Sportsmen's Club, 3154 Ridge Road, McGraw. Pre-register. Call 607-836-6136. Hunter: 6 to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 24, 26 and 8 a.m. until done Sept. 28, Peterboro Conservation Club, 5155 Old County Road, Canastota. Pre-register between 6 and 8 p.m. Sept. 16 at the club. Bowhunter: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 28, Pompey Rod and Gun Club, 2035 Swift Road, Pompey. Pre-register at the club between 10 a.m. and noon Sept. 21. Hunter: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 28, Camillus Sportsmen's Club, 5801 Devoe Road, Camillus. This is a home study course. This class requires five or more hours of homework before the class sessions. Pre-register in person only from 10 to 11 a.m. Sept. 14 at the Camillus Town Hall, 4600 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Class size is limited to the first 50 in line. Doors will open at 9:30 am and course registration will begin at 10, starting with the first individual in line. Hunter: 7:30 to 2:30 p.m. Oct. 12, Elbridge Rod and Gun Club, 6275 Laird Road, Jordan. This is a home study course. This class requires five or more hours of homework before the class sessions. Pre-register at the club between 6 and 7:30 p.m. Sept. 27. Hunter: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 19, 8 a.m. until done Oct. 20, Leatherstocking Club, State Rte. 104 (1.5 miles West of New Haven). Pre-register. Call 343-1558 between 6 and 8 p.m. For more, see the DEC website. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> The Federation is the largest local sportsmen's group in Central New York, representing nearly 40 sporting clubs in with well over 5,000 members. Wowelko, of Syracuse, has been its president since 2007, longer than any of his predecessors </p> <p><br />Stephen Wowelko is stepping down as president of the Onondaga Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs at the end of this year.</p> <p>The Federation is the largest local sportsmen's group in Central New York, representing nearly 40 sporting clubs in with well over 5,000 members. Wowelko, of East Syracuse, has been its president since 2007, serving longer than any of his predecessors.</p> <p>In addition to serving on a wide variety of local and regional fishing and hunting advisory boards, Wowelko was nominated by The Post-Standard as a "Hero of Conservation" in 2009, and in 2010 was inducted into the New York State Outdoorsman's Hall of Fame.</p> <p>When chosen by The Post-Standard for the Hero of Conservation Award, the following was written:></p> <p>"When the news broke that the county was going to close the Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery this fall, Stephen Wowelko stepped up and led the charge of local outdoorsmen and women.</p> <p>Wowelko, president of the Onondaga County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, wrote guest columns about the issue for this newspaper and other publications. He spoke on radio and TV programs. He met with county lawmakers, while directing others to send their feelings to County Executive Joanie Mahoney.</p> <p>"Whether it's a question of angler access to Cazenovia Lake or a youth hunting bill, Wowelko, of E. Syracuse, tackles the issue in a respectful, common-sense way.</p> <p>"An avid hunter and fisherman, Wowelko is chairman of the Region 7 Fish and Wildlife Management Board. He's been past president of Friends of the Carpenter's Brook Hatchery (presently vice president) and on the Citizen Task Force for Deer Management (Region 7F). He has also been chairman of the Sportsmen's Days at the hatchery."</p> <p>Wowelko, 54, said his decision to not seek another term as president of the Federation was prompted by a new job.</p> <p>"At the end of September I will retire from Syracuse University where I worked for nearly 33 years," he said. " I have accepted another position from an IT company based out of Toronto ,Canada. With my work schedule and travel, I do not know how much time I will be able to devote to the Federation."</p> <p>He said he'll remain active in the local sportsmen's scene.</p> <p>"I feel that it is time for someone else to step up and get all of the glory of being president. I would like to continue on the board and help in the transition," he said. "With the hard work from the board and our Federation members, I feel that I will be leaving the Federation better than when I took over.</p> <p>"I would also like to spend some time on other conservation projects," he said.</p> <p>Wowelko's successor will be elected by the Federation's board at the end of this year and installed at the annual president's dinner in January.</p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

Meanwhile, live crayfish continue to be very productive for catching bass on many local lakes. CNY FISHING REPORT Bait stores (list and map). LAKE ONTARIO Salmon are being caught 90 to 135 feet down over 100 to 150 feet of water. Salmon are starting to stage around river mouths like the Oswego and Salmon rivers. Good baits continue to be spoons, flashers and cut-bait, and flashers and flies. White colored lures have been productive. Anglers are getting baits down with variety of methods such as wire and Dipsey divers (about 300 to340 feet back), copper (500 feet) and downriggers. SALMON RIVER There are a few salmon being reported in the lower river. This early salmon fishing is extremely "hit or miss", so try various spots. After several impressive early runs recently things have slowed a little this week. The coming cool weather and rain, though, should speed things up. OSWEGO RIVER Smallmouth bass are biting crankbaits, minnows, crayfish and spinnerbaits. Catfish and sheepshead (freshwater drum) are hitting on crayfish or night crawlers. There have been a few early salmon reported in the river. ONEIDA LAKE Anglers report that the perch bite has picked up lately, particularly around Dunham's or Frenchman islands. Many of the fish are being caught on fathead minnows. Walleye bite has tapered recently. No reports of late evening success by shore fishing at this point. The blue green algae blooms took its toll the past several weeks on the bass fishing, but the water has been clearing up lately and the bass fishing has improved. CAYUGA LAKE Fishing has been slow on the lake over the last few weeks and little has changed again this week, trolling down 70-100 feet over 100-250 feet of water with spoons or flasher and flies, fished off downriggers, copper wire, or Dipsey divers is still working for lake trout. Vertical jigging is also working for lake trout in 85-115 feet of water. Bass and panfish are still being caught on the north end in 10-15 feet of water. SENECA LAKE Lake trout are being taken 80 to 120 feet down over 130 to 200 feet of water on spoons and flasher and flies. Running Dipseys back 230 to 270 feet has been a good starting point, as is running copper out 300 feet. Brown trout and Atlantic salmon are being caught 50 to 70 feet down on spoons or flasher and flies. Perch are being caught by anglers using fathead minnows in about 20 to 30 feet of water. OWASCO LAKE Anglers report that lots of perch and smallmouth bass being caught, along with a few lake trout with mooneyes. They're using fathead minnows and worms for the perch. Bass are down deep, about 25 to 30 feet. Many are being caught on live crayfish. OTISCO LAKE Bass are being caught off the Causeway, many of live crayfish. Some anglers are catching some walleye fishing down 25 to 30 feet with crankbaits, stickbaits or worm harnesses. A few tiger muskies are also being caught on stickbaits. SKANEATELES LAKE Live bait (crayfish and night crawlers) are working well for smallmouth bass, yellow perch and rock bass in 12 to 18 feet of water. Crayfish are working the best. SANDY POND: Fishing continues to be slow on the pond, but fishing early or late in the day is still producing some largemouth bass. ST. LAWRENCE RIVER Bass continue to be caught in deeper water, 35 to 40 feet. Northern pike bite continues to be strong, with many being caught on the edge of weed lines in water anywhere from 18 to 30 feet deep. Try a Rapala Huskie Jerk or a purple Reef Runner lure. Many successful bass anglers are using live crayfish. Walleyes are still being caught in the early morning or evening. A popular lure has been the Jigfish. SODUS BAY Fishing the outside weed edges has been working for largemouth. Good baits have been crankbaits and plastic worms. A few northern pike are also being caught. WHITNEY POINT RESERVOIR Anglers are catching a lot of bullheads, channel cats and smallmouth bass at the north end of the lake. Reservoir is up and off-colored at this point. More rain could put a negative spin on the fishing. ** The DEC is looking for participants in its Angler Diary Cooperator Program - particularly those who fish Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles and Otisco Lakes. For more, call 1-607-753-3095, extension 213. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

I'm looking for someone who's really into the September Canada goose hunting season. Call me at 470-6066 or email [email protected]) Labor Day weekend has passed and the outdoors activities across Central New York are kicking into high gear. Here's what I'm working on this week: - There's been problems lately at the DEC-owned, but town of Skaneateles monitored boat launch. Last weekend the lot was so crowded that the front bumper of one guy's truck was nearly ripped off by a passing vehicle/trailer, folks are parking illegally along Route 41A because of lack of packing spaces and no one is telling boaters that the lot is full at the launch's entrance lately --- and several "fights" were reported. What gives? - Competitive birding? No fooling. It's the 17th annual Montezuma Muckrace, a competition entailing 24 hours of straight birding, with teams vying to see who can record the greatest number of different birds during that period. - My predecessor, J. Michael Kelly, has a new book, "Fishing the Finger Lakes." Mike taps into his years of experience and contacts to give readers not only numerous tips, but history and the fisheries biology facts about why the local lakes are they way they are. I learned a lot and so will you. - Fall trout fishing on local inland streams. Don't put that fly rod away just yet. There's a few weeks ahead of fall fishing and the streams are great shape. - The 50th annual fall gun show at the New York State Fairgrounds is set for the weekend of Sept. 14-15. - The September Canada goose hunting season. (I'm looking for someone who's into this to take me out. Call me at 470-6066 or email me at [email protected]) Also: - So, what's the deal with how the water level on Lake Ontario is regulated. A new plan dealing with that issue is quite controversial. - More on the urban deer problem.. including how the Democratic mayoral candidates in Syracuse view the problem. ANYTHING ELSE READERS OF THIS REPORT WOULD LIKE TO SEE ME WRITE ABOUT? The effectiveness of this report is two-fold. First, it lets readers know what's coming up story-wise. It also allows readers a chance to affect coverage and provide sources for upcoming stories. Bottom line: Keep in touch and give input. You could make a difference as to what appears week to week on the outdoors page! Email me at [email protected] or call 470-6066. If you want to join The Post-Standard's Outdoors Group and get this emailed directly to you, subscribe here.. FIGURA ON FACEBOOK: For those who are on Facebook, I also have a PS Outdoors page, which I check several times daily for feedback and story ideas. I also post personal fishing and hunting and other outdoors-related photos from time to time and I ask members to do the same. When you join, please be sure and hit the "like" button. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> The Syracuse Pistol Club is a bullseye pistol shooting club with more than 500 members, and offers both 12 position indoor and 50 position outdoor ranges. </p> <p><br />Interested in learning how to shoot your handgun safely and competitively? The Syracuse Pistol Club, which is holding its annual fall open house on Sept. 18, may be the answer.</p> <p>Tours of the facility will begin at 6:30 p.m. A brief overview of the club, membership requirements and a Q &A session will be presented at 7 p.m.</p> <p>The Syracuse Pistol Club is a bullseye pistol shooting club with more than 500 members, and offers both 12 position indoor and 50 position outdoor ranges.</p> <p>The club is located at 8042 Henry Clay Blvd. in the town of Clay, approximately 1 mile North of Wetzel Road.</p> <p>For more information, visit the club's website at <a href="http://www.syracusepistolclub.net">syracusepistolclub.net</a></p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

Cpmpetitors take the 24-hour competition, which is a fund-raiser for bird conservation in this Finger Lakes hot spot, very seriously. The contest starts at 7 p.m. Friday night and lasts until 7 p.m. Saturday. Birders take your mark. Get set. Go. Ok, this weekend's 17th annual Montezuma Muckrace at the Montezuma Wildlands Complex doesn't start that way. However, the competitive birding event, sponsored by the Friends of the Montezuma Wetlands Complex, features the state's top birding teams. They take the 24-hour competition, which is a fund-raiser for bird conservation in this Finger Lakes hot spot, very seriously. The contest starts at 7 p.m. Friday night and lasts until 7 p.m. Saturday. Teams will be spread out throughout the 242-square-mile Montezuma Wetlands Complex, which is also referred to as the Montezuma Focus Area. It includes federal, state and Nature Conservancy-owned lands, with the largest tract being the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. The area was highlighted under the North American Waterfowl Management Plan as critical migratory bird habitat. Teams register under several categories (Competitive, Youth, Low-Carbon, Family/Mentor, or Recreational) and their goal is to locate as many bird species as possible during the 24-hour period. A record number of participants will participate in the 17th Annual Montezuma Muckrace, including the No rEgrets team from the Montezuma Audubon Center. Submitted photo Winning teams over the past several years have identified as many as 148 species, and collectively, as many as 192 species have been seen by the 90-100 birders on the 20 to 27 teams, in a single day. The winning competitive team in 2012, Gallinagos, sponsored by the Cayuga Bird Club, logged 134 species. Many other birders of all ages and experience joined in on the fun under the recreational category. This event, now in its 17th year, is made possible by over 25 sponsors, including top sponsors: Wild Birds Unlimited, Nucor Steel (Auburn), Bass Pro, Avinet, Inc. (Dryden) and Seneca Meadows Landfill. Other contributors include: Merritt Seed, the Cayuga Bird Club, Ernst Conservation Seeds, Montezuma Winery, Marsh Creek (Geneva), Wolffys Grill, Abigails, Parker's Grill, The Brick Oven, Ducks Unlimited, Swarovski Optics, WomenMade Products, Old Lyons Hardware and the Montezuma Audubon Center. Money is also raised through pledges sought by participants. Prizes are awarded to the team that raises the most money and to those teams that record the highest number of species. Event organizers include the Friends of the Montezuma Wetlands Complex, N.Y.S. Department of Environmental Conservation, Audubon NY and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Montezuma Audubon Center, 2295 Route 89, Savannah, NY will serve as the event headquarters, with participants returning to this site at the finish on Saturday to compile their checklists, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy recapping highlights of the day. The 2012 competition raised over $13,000, which built an observation deck on a newly developed wetland area, and continues to fund other habitat restoration projects. This year's competition features a total of 115 birders, with 27 teams. Teams in the competitive division generally have 3-4 members; recreational teams can have as many as 10 members. Winners in the competitive division get a trophy, which must be brought back year and passed on the following year's winner -- in addition to getting their pick from a table of prizes donated by sponsors of the contest. For more information, visit the Friends website. Friends of the Montezuma Wetlands Complex President, Chuck Gibson, can be contacted for additional information at (315) 945-2167 or at [email protected]. Photo caption: A record number of participants will participate in the 17th Annual Montezuma Muckrace, including the No rEgrets team from the Montezuma Audubon Center. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

There's two race venues on Saturday and one on Sunday. Mae Lankes of Skaneateles, was the first female across the finish line on E. Genesee Street at Saturday's SkinnyMan triathlon in Skaneateles. The event included an 800-yard swim, an 11-mile bike ride and a 3-mile run. David Lassman | [email protected] 1).Dunkin Run ARC Race. Saturday morning at Long Branch Park, Liverpool. Features a half marathon, 5K run, 3K family fun walk and kids one mile fun run. The half marathon begins at 9 a.m., followed by the 5K at 9:05 and the 3K walk at 9:10. The kids fun run begins at 8:30 a.m. For more or to register, see arcon.org. 2).Cazenovia County Trail Run. Saturday morning at Fenner Road Athletic Complex, Cazenovia. A challenging 4,800-meter trail run through woods, fields and small streams. Men's race starts at 9 a.m.; women's race at 9:45 a.m. For more or to register, see caz.cnyric.org/athletics and then click on "Cazenovia X-C Trail Run Information." 3). Mustang Stampede. Begins at 9 a.m. Sunday at Onondaga Lake Park (Willow Bay end). Features a 10 K run, 5 K run/walk and children's fun run. For more or to register see mustang-stampede.org Last weekend's races: 1). Ultimate Towner. Held Saturday at Long Branch Park, Liverpool. The 4-mile race featured25 obstacles. For results, see ultimatetowner.com/liverpool-ultimate-towner. 2). Van Buren Park Alpine Challenge Cross Country Race. Held Saturday morning at Van Buren Park in Baldwinsville. For final results, fleetfeetsyracuse.com. 3). Labor Day Race Weekend in Skaneateles. Races were held Saturday and Sunday. The SkinnyMan sprint triathlon took place on Saturday. Sunday's schedule included the Escape from the Judge (swimming), the Coon Hill Grind (biking) and a 5K road race. For final results, see skanraces.com. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

Show organizers tout it as "the biggest show" in the state, and note this year it's celebrating its 50th anniversary in Syracuse. Jim Noll of Rochester at right gets his Winchester 22 caliber rifle tagged by a gun checker before entering the April 2013 Gun Show held in the Center of Progress at the fairgrounds.Mike Greenlar | [email protected] The annual fall gun show hosted by the New York State Arms Collectors Association is set for Sept. 14 and 15 in the Center of Progress Building at the New York State Fairgrounds. Show organizers tout it as "the biggest show" in the state, and note this year it's celebrating its 50th anniversary in Syracuse. "More than 1,000 tables featuring things for sale, exhibits and displays will be provided by our collectors and dealers from all over the United States and Canada," said Sandy Ackerman, the show's manager. Ackerman said the show will feature displays and tables on U.S. Military arms, Colt revolvers, high-grade double barrel shotguns, Remingtons, muskets, Smith and Wesson firearms, Kentucky rifles, gun parts and accessories, Native American items, frontier and western paraphenalia, swords, Springfields, Winchesters, bowie knives, powder horms, civilian and military weapons from many nations, custom-made and factory-made knives, military relics and equipment from before the Revolutionary War to the present. Admission is $6 per day, $5 for senior citizens and children under 12, with parents, free. The show will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 14, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 15. The show will follow "Model Gun Show Procedures" announced earlier this year by New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, Ackerman said. The procedures were followed without problems at spring gun shows held this year by Ackerman's group at the state fairgrounds and at the Empire State Plaza in Albany. The procedures include a rule that ensures all guns brought into the show by private sellers are tagged so that the show operator can determine whether those guns were sold and a proper background check performed before the weapons leave the premises. The procedures also require gun show operators to: - Post conspicuous signs throughout the shows and give written notice to all dealers that state law requires a National instant Criminal Background Check be completed before the transfer of a gun at a show. - Provide access to a dealer who is authorized to conduct such a background check at cost. - Limit the number of access doors at the show so sellers and buyers have to enter and exit through an area where the NICS procedures can be monitored. - Use reasonable means to prevent illegal gun sales outside of the building, including the parking lot. - Alert law enforcement that a show will be held in the area, request periodic patrols in the parking lots to deter illegal sales and call law enforcement if illegal sales are observed or suspected. For further information, call Ackerman from 1 to 6 p.m. at 607-748-1010. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

It was her second time out fishing on the Seneca River, she said. Submitted photo Danielle Connor, 23, of Syracuse, holds up a 26-inch tiger muskie she caught recently on the Seneca River. She said it was her second time out fishing on the river. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

I'd like to connect with some veteran anglers who can help me put together a story entitled "Fall Trout Fishing 101." Is anyone planning on getting out either Tuesday or Wednesday of this coming week? I'm planning on doing a story either this week or next on fall, inland stream trout fishing. I'd like to connect with some Central New York veteran anglers who can help me put together a story entitled "Fall Trout Fishing 101." To reach me, email [email protected] or call 315-470-6066. Meanwhile, is anyone planning on getting out either Tuesday or Wednesday of this coming week? View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

The group has introduced more than 1,700 young bow hunters into the sport. However, some responded to this milestone critically, noting the group's long-standing resistance to the use of crossbows during the archery season has prevented others from enjoying the sport, too. The following press release by New York Bowhunters touts a noteworthy accomplishment about the group's summer camp program and all the young archers over the years that have been introduced into bowhunting. However, several readers have responded critically to it, noting the group's long-standing resistance to getting crossbow legislation passed during the archery season. At this, point, crossbows are illegal as far as their use as hunting instruments in this state. The press release follows: "New York Bowhunters Inc. (NYB) announces over 1,700 youths have been exposed to bowhunting and archery through NYB Annual Summer Youth Camps. "As the summer of 2013 comes to an end, NYB is proud to announce another 85 youths throughout New York State attended their summer youth camps bringing the total to 1710 since its inception. "This program is provided at no cost to any young person in New York State aged 11 through 16 years of age. "NYB began its Youth Camp program in the summer of 1993. "Camps are generally held over a weekend and although the main focus is bowhunting (including plenty of time on tree stand safety), ethical behavior and other topics are covered as well. Activities vary from region to region and may include; basic tuning of equipment and arrow construction, effective use of maps and compasses when afield, bow fishing, seminars on turkey hunting and scents/lures, as well as talks by local Environmental Conservation Officers. "Over the course of the two to three days, campers typically take their NYS Bowhunter Certification course. "All campers spend time on the archery practice range. NYB provides food, lodging, equipment as needed and instructors. "NYB, founded in 1991 exists to promote and protect bowhunting throughout New York State. The Youth Camp is one of many programs which help NYB achieve that objective. All programs are funded by member dues and donations. For more information or to learn how you can help NYB simply by becoming a member check out the group's website." What's your feeling on the NYS Bowhunter group's accomplishment with its summer camp program? It's impressive. I'd like to see some testimonials from those who benefitted from it. Meanwhile, I received the following emails Thursday shortly after the press release came out. "Just think how many senior and handicapped folks you could help participate if you supported legalizing the crossbow in NY." - Mike Zagata "And people like me who have had major reconstructive shoulder surgery." - Todd Mead "It is to the shame of NYB that in one hand they have one of the best youth programs in the nation (I have taught at the Cortland Camp for over 17 years, watching it work in action), while in the other hand through reckless Hitler style propaganda, fear mongering, they have help to deny not only a legitimate weapon/tool for the sportsmen, but for an entire older class of hunters, and those afflicted with various injuries but cannot meet the BS definitions currently in place for a permit. I believe it that very reason they have so few numbers. 2000 or so? Not sure what it is for 2013 If they were truly an advocate for the sportsmen, the bow hunters, archery hobbyists, you would think they would surpass the tens of thousands mark. How is it that a state that reports over 200,000 bowhunters are so called represented by such a small group. Again, the very stances they take, and elitist positions they have are the very reasons for their limited success when viewed through the lens of what they could be. It is a damn shame that we have such a divisive group in our ranks. I have been subject to their harassment first hand by their leadership just for supporting a contrary proposal or having a different opinion. Very sad that one group feels they must dictate the opinion of the entire sportsmen's community. I started out as a bowhunter, and I don't see myself inclined to every be a member of NYB." - Mike Joyner "Nicely stated Mike... Amen!!! "I am a strong supporter for our veterans of this state and in no way does the NYSB views on crossbow hunting support, or even take into consideration, those veterans who do not quite qualify for the special crossbow license issued by this state. " - Walter D. Weirich, Jr. (Bow Hunter, DEC Hunter Safety Firearms Master Instructor, Vietnam/Cold War Veteran, American Legion Rider and Patriot Guard Rider... STILL SERVING!) What's your feeling on the NYS Bowhunter group's accomplishment with is summer camp program? I'd like to see some testimonials from those who benefitted from it. Meanwhile, I received the following emails Thursday shortly after the Bowhunter press release was released. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog