HuntingNY-News

A writer relies on skills he learned as a hunter. View the full article

One involves an effort to stop the spread of hydrilla; the other, water chestnuts. View full sizeHydrilla clogs up a tributary that flows into the Cayuga Lake Inlet.Robert Johnson photo Invasive aquatic plant species continue to be a threat on Central New York waterways. Two efforts - one this past week, and another next month - will help make a difference. The presence of hydrilla, a plant that tends to clog and overtake a waterway was first discovered in the Cayuga Lake Inlet in August 2011. Since that time, a multi-agency task force has tried to stop its spread into the lake. One chemical herbicide treatment was applied in 2011 and two more in 2012. Two treatments are again planned for this year, using two different chemicals . The first chemical application this year took place Tuesday in an area stretching from the DEC's fish ladder upstream to Allan H. Treman Park, said James A. Balyszak, Hydrilla Program manager. To ensure the chemical would have its maximum effect, officials closed down the Inlet to water craft from 8 a.m. Tuesday to 8 a.m. Wednesday., he said. The game plan, Balyszak said, is to contain and wipe out the plant in the Inlet. "At this point, it has not been found rooted or growing in the lake," he said. Balyszak said it's not clear how the plant got in the Inlet. Best guesses at this point involve a boater launching his craft with a plant fragment picked up from another body of water, or someone dumping the contents of their aquarium in the Inlet. For more on hydrilla adn the task force's efforts, see stophydrilla.org. Mike Cusano has been involved in fighting the spread for several years. In this 2008 photo, he's shown harvesting the plant from the Oneida River.Mike Greenlar | [email protected] Next month, the Salt City Bassmasters and the Gold Old Boys Bass Club are teaming up for 10 straight days of harvesting water chestnut plants on Oneida Lake in an effort coordinated by the New York Bass Chapter Federation. Like hydrilla, water chestnuts can clog up and overwhelm a waterway, or at least stretches of it. The work, which involves getting in the water and pulling out the plants by hand, will take place during the evenings of Aug. 5-14. Volunteers will have use of the federation's conservation vessel, said Mike Cusano, of Clay, who is leading the effort. Cusano said volunteers will meet between 5:20 and 5:35 p.m. each evening at Big Bay Marina, 155 Camic Road in Central Square, with the boat departing at 5:45. "We will cruise the lake pulling and looking for water chestnut plants for about 2 ÃÂÃÂÃÂý hour each evening," he said. Cusano said the owner of the marina is allowing the bass anglers to dock the boat, and keep it charged free of charge. The plan is to have a crew of five individuals going out each evening. "That includes a boat captain (drives boat, runs trolling motor), two individuals harvesting plants with rakes and two individuals bagging plants up in bags donated by Bass Pro Shops of Auburn," he said. To volunteer, email Cusano at [email protected]. For more information about water chestnuts and other invasive plant species, see the DEC website at dec.ny.gov. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

Exams slated for Aug. 16. Exam applications due Aug. 2. Ken Aubin with "Jade", one of the Harris's Hawks that he and his wife Melissa hunt with. Dick Blume/The Post Standard The following is a DEC press release: Examinations for individuals seeking an Apprentice Falconry license, Wildlife Rehabilitator license, or Leashed Tracking Dog Handler license are scheduled for Friday, Aug. 16, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced today. All exams will run from 10:00 a.m. to noon at DEC Regional offices across the state (exams will not be offered in the Long Island City Office, Region 2). The list of Regional Offices can be found on the DEC website. The deadline for registering to take any of these exams is Aug. 2. Apprentice Falconry License Falconry has a rich history and tradition throughout the world. Falconry is a demanding sport which requires a significant commitment in time and effort. The novice must be prepared to accept the responsibility that is part of falconry. Apprentices are limited to possessing one bird, either an American kestrel or a red-tailed hawk. For more information about Falconry License, visit the DEC website. A falconry study guide and examination manual are available to applicants at no cost. The cost of a five-year falconry license is $40. There is no charge to take the written falconry apprentice exam. To qualify for the DEC Apprentice Falconry license, applicants must: • score 80 percent or higher on the written exam • be at least 14 years of age • possess a valid New York State hunting license which authorizes the hunting of small-game and • maintain DEC-approved facilities for housing falconry raptors. Wildlife Rehabilitator License Wildlife rehabilitators provide the volunteer service of caring for injured, sick and orphaned wild animals, with the ultimate goal of preparing the animals for their return to the wild. A degree of technical skill and a significant commitment in time, money and effort are required to be a wildlife rehabilitator. Prospective applicants are encouraged to gain experience by serving as an assistant to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. For more information on the Wildlife Rehabilitation Program, visit DEC's website. A wildlife rehabilitator study guide and examination manual are available to applicants for $15 a set. There is no fee for the five-year wildlife rehabilitation license. There is no charge to take the written wildlife rehabilitation exam. To qualify for the Wildlife Rehabilitation license, applicants must: • score 80 percent or higher on the written exam • be at least 16 years of age • submit two character references along with their application • have no convictions for violations of the State Environmental Conservation Law and • be interviewed by a DEC regional wildlife staff person. Leashed Tracking Dog Handler License Leashed tracking dog handlers use their dogs to track and recover dead, wounded or injured big game. Leashed tracking dog handlers provide an invaluable service in aiding hunters in locating wounded big game that otherwise may have gone unrecovered. More information regarding the Leashed Tracking Dog License can be found on the DEC website. A leashed tracking dog study guide is available to applicants at no cost. There is a $50 license fee for the five-year license, and a $25 non-refundable application fee. To qualify for a Leashed Tracking Dog Handler License, applicants must: • score 80 percent or higher on the written exam • possess a valid New York State hunting license which authorizes the hunting of big-game and • have no convictions for violations of the State Environmental Conservation Law To apply for any of these exams, contact DEC's Special Licenses Unit by calling 518-402-8985, emailing the Unit or by writing to NYS DEC Special Licenses Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4752. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> The Lake Ontario chinook fishing scene is picking up. </p> <p><strong>CNY FISHING REPORT</strong></p> <p><strong>INLAND TROUT STREAMS/LAKES:</strong> Local waterways that have been stocked are: <strong>Cayuga County:</strong> North Brook, Owasco Inlet, Salmon Creek and Fall Creek; Cortland County: Otselic River; <strong>Cortland County:</strong> Little York Lake, Merrill Creek, East Br. Tioughnioga River, West Br. Tioughnioga River, Casterline Pond and the Otselic River; <strong>Madison County</strong>: Lebanon Reservoir, Eaton Brook Reservoir, Upper Lelands Pond, Stonemill Brook, Beaver Creek, Canastota Creek, Limestone Creek, Payne Brook, Chittenango Creek, Canaseraga Creek, Chenango River, Cowaselon Creek, Old Chenango Canal, Oneida Creek, Sangerfield River, and the Otselic River; <strong>Onondaga County:</strong> Nine Mile Creek, Onondaga Creek; West Br. Onondaga Creek, Tannery Ceek, Spafford Brook, Furnace Brook, Fabius Brook, Limestone Creek, West Br. Limestone Creek, Geddes Brook, Carpenters Brook, Butternut Creek, and Skaneateles Creek. (Hotline number is (315) 689-0003); <strong>Oswego County:</strong> Light House Hill Reservoir, Black Creek, North Br. Salmon River, Rice Creek, East Br. Salmon River, Salmon River and West Branch of Fish Creek; <strong>Tompkins County:</strong> Enfield Creek, Virgil Creek, Buttermilk Creek, Salmon Creek, Fall Creek and Sixmile Creek and Cayuga Lake.</p> <p><strong>LAKE ONTARIO</strong><br />Fishing picked up a little last week for chinook salmon and they were being found 50 to 90 feet down over 300 to 400 foot of water. Spoons and flashers and cut-bait in shades of green have been working. A few steelhead are also being taken over the 300-400 depths on red spoons fished 10-20 feet down. Brown trout are being found in 40 to 50 feet, down 20 to 35 feet from the surface taking flutter spoons and stingers off downriggers. Lake trout are on the bottom in 120 to 130 feet of water and are taking fire plugs and peanuts with cowbells, as well as spoons. Bass are hitting crayfish and minnows in 20 feet of water around Mexico. Fishing two feet or more off bottom will help avoid some of the bait-stealing gobies.<br /><strong><br />SALMON RIVER</strong><br />. Fishing has really slowed down on the river, which is usual for this time of year. But there are a few Atlantic salmon and Skamania strain steelhead being taken in the upper river. The lower river is yielding some smallmouth bass and rock bass.<br /><strong><br />OSWEGO RIVER</strong> <br />Anglers are targeting catfish and sheepshead (freshwater drum). Try using crayfish or night crawlers as bait.</p> <p><strong>ONEIDA LAKE </strong><br />Walleye fishing continues to be very good. Walleye are still being taken in both shallow and deep water, from 10 to 30 feet, but the most consistent action has been in the 20 to 30 foot zone. Try the area just west of Shackelton Shoals. Good baits have been black & purple bucktail jigs tipped with nightcrawler, blade baits and perch colored stickbaits all working. Pickerel are being caught in good numbers on the lake. Bass fishing has been good, particularly in and around Big Bay.</p> <p><strong>CAYUGA LAKE</strong> <br />Weeds and water fleas are beginning to make trolling more difficult on the lake. Trolling down 60 to 90 feet over 80-120 feet of water with spoons or flasher and flies, fished off downriggers, copper wire, or Dipsey divers is working for lake trout. Vertical jigging is also working for lake trout in 85-105 feet of water. Atlantic salmon are being taken on spoons fished 30 to 50 feet down over 60 to 120 feet of water. Lures in a variety of shades of green have been working well for the trout and salmon. Bass and panfish are being caught on the north end.</p> <p>The lower Cayuga Inlet was scheduled to be chemically treated this week to control hydrilla, an invasive plant species. This meant parts of the inlet and the Allan H. Treman boat launch were to be closed to boating during the treatment.</p> <p><strong>SENECA LAKE</strong><br />Water fleas and weed mats are beginning to make trolling more difficult. The early morning bite has been better for anglers trolling down 30-50 feet with wire and Dipsey and is producing some salmon and lake trout. Lake trout are also being taken 40-80 feet down over 80 to 110 feet of water on spoons and flasher and flies. Vertical jigging with plastics is also still working in 50 to 135 feet of water.</p> <p><strong>OWASCO LAKE</strong><br />Water fleas are beginning to make trolling more difficult on the lake. Anglers trolling down 45 to 60 feet with spoons or flasher and flies are getting some lake trout, along with an occasional rainbow trout. More bait is being marked in the mid-lake area then on the north end.</p> <p><strong>OTISCO LAKE</strong><br />Some walleye are still being taken by anglers trolling down 25 to 30 feet on crankbaits, stickbaits or worm harnesses . Look for bass near shore and along the weed edges. A variety of baits should work this time of year from spinnerbaits, jigs, plastics to topwaters. There has been a lot of litter left along the Causeway recently. Remember to "Carry in and Carry Out" and respect the environment.</p> <p><strong>SKANEATELES LAKE</strong><br />The brown drake hatch is winding down, but fishing with flies just before dark should still be productive for rock bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch and rainbow trout. Smallmouth bass are also being taken on tube jigs, spinnerbaits and topwaters. If not catching fish though, move slightly deeper, and try drop-shot rigs or live bait such as minnows, night crawlers or crayfish.</p> <p><strong>SANDY POND:</strong><br />A few walleye and northern pike are still being caught on the pond. Anglers are also getting bluegills and a few yellow perch. Largemouth bass are also being caught regularly, try using plastic worms, Texas rig worms and spinner baits.</p> <p><strong>ST. LAWRENCE RIVER</strong> <br />Bass continue to be caught in deeper water, around 25 feet. Best bait has been crayfish. Northern pike bite continues to be strong. Many successful anglers are using minnows, fishing in the weeds in 15 to 25 feet of water.</p> <p><strong>SODUS BAY</strong><br />Panfish are being taken on small jigs, minnows and worms. Bass fishing continues to be good for anglers using bass jigs, plastics and topwaters.</p> <p><strong>WHITNEY POINT RESERVOIR</strong> <br />The reservoir is still high. The walleye bite had been good for anglers fishing worm harnesses, jigs and crankbaits before the high water. White crappie and smallmouth bass fishing was also good before the reservoir rose. When conditions settle out, try fishing small minnows and jigs for the crappies and crankbaits for the bass.<br /></p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> "We took you up on one of your challenges and visited Pratt's Falls for the first time with our dog Lucy. The best part for us was definitely the short hike to the falls. We had a great time," said Mike Ranieri, of Camillus. </p> <div id="asset-13101223" 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/13101223-large.jpg" class="adv-photo" alt="prattflass.jpg.jpg" /><span class="photo-data"><span class="caption">zThe Ranieris and their dog, Lucy, enjoyed Pratt's Falls. </span><span class="byline"></span></span></span> </div> <p>The weather has taken a turn for the better lately and there's no better time to get outside and visit the 15 outdoors destinations I've outlined in The Figura Challenge at the beginning of the summer.</p> <p>As an added incentive, the first person to visit all 15, and can send me at least 7 pictures or some other proof from half of the locations, will win a free copy of the recently published book, "New York Wildlife Viewing Guide," which was recently released by the state Department of Environmental Conservation..</p> <p>Meanwhile, Mike Ranieri, of Camillus, wrote me: </p> <p>"We took you up on one of your challenges and visited Pratt's Falls for the first time with our dog Lucy. The best part for us was definitely the short hike to the falls. We had a great time. </p> <p>"We had a great time and hope to cross a few more off the list this summer. Thanks!"</p> <p>Paul Pflanz, of Syracuse, made it up to the Sterling Nature Center. He wrote:</p> <div id="asset-13104120" 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/13104120-large.jpg" class="adv-photo" alt="Pearl Crescent Butterfly.JPG" /><span class="photo-data"><span class="caption">A pearl crescent butterfly at the Sterling Nature Center.</span><span class="byline"></span></span></span> </div> <p>"My wife and I decided to check out the last of the herons at the Sterling Nature Center rookery. The Interpretive Center was open and we learned that the water level in the rookery was very low. A heavy rainstorm (over 8 inches in one storm) hit about 5 weeks ago (same time as the rest of CNY was getting innundated) and the resulting flooding destroyed much of the beaver dam that created the rookery pond. <br /> <br />"There were about a dozen herons still in nests with at least that many empty nests that had been vacated by the heron parents and their fledged young. Those remaining will depart by the end of the month. There may have been young among them but, by now, they are similar in size and appearance to the adults.<br /> <br />"But, as usual, there was much to see at sterling including a lone resident bald eagle perched in a tree across the rookery from the viewing platform."</p> <p><a href="http://blog.syracuse.com/outdoors/2013/05/take_the_figura_challenge_and.html">Check out my list.</a> Do yourself and your family a favor. Mother Nature has been generous to this area and she does not disappoint.</p> <p>Send your comments and photos to [email protected] so I can include them in my weekly updates. Looking forward to hearing from you.</p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

There's a 3-D archery competition Sunday at the Pompey Rod and Gun Club. CNY OUTDOORS CALENDAR 3-D archery shoot: Sign up from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Sunday, Pompey Rod and Gun Club, 2035 Swift Road, Pompey. Cost is $15 for adults. Call 656-8810. 3-D archery shoot: Sign up from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. July 29. Cortland Field Archers, Route 41-A, Cortland. Cost is $15 for adults. Call 685-7083. 3-D archery shoot: Sign up from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Aug. 4, Fayetteville-Manlius Rod and Gun Club, 4545 Whetstone Road, Manlius. Cost is $15 for adults. Call 256-3235. Free fishing clinic: 1 p.m. Aug. 10, Lake Neahtahwanta. Hosted by local author Spider Rybaack and McGrath &Associates Carp Angling Services. For more, contact McGrath at [email protected] or at 882-1549 or Rybaack at [email protected]. SAFETY COURSES:. Bow: 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday (July 24, 25) at the Nedrow Sportsman's Club, 3878 Cherry Valley Turnpike, Marietta. Pre-register. Call 432-8422, extension 11. Bow: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. July 28, Stillbrook Fish and Game, 184 CC Road, Williamstown. Pre-register by calling 963-7530 or email [email protected]. Bow: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Aug. 25, Albion Fish and Game, 2770 State Route 13, Altmar. Pre-register by calling 963-7530 or email [email protected]. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

Follow me on Facebook. See PS Outdoors. What a scorcher it's been this week. I'm sure it's had all sorts of impacts on the outdoors scene. If you're out, don't forget the sunscreen! It may sound like a little thing now, but it could end up being a big thing later on. Here's what I've been working on this week: - How the SAFE Act has resulted in a surge at local rod and gun and other shooting clubs. - Willow Bay -- a CNY shoreline fishing hot spot. - The three ponds at the north end of the village of Homer (Casterline Pond and Durkee Park), another shoreline hot spot. - The DEC boot camp for new environmental conservation officers and forest rangers. - The Bordwells, of Tully - and how the kids and the father are making their marks on the competitive archery scenes. - An upcoming water chestnut pull on Oneida Lake. Other stuff I'm working on: - Panfish lesson: How do tell a sunny, from a bluegill, from a pumpkinseed? - The increase in program offerings this summer in the local Women in Nature Program. - The CNY triathlon culture. I was blown away recently covering the Ironman 70.3 Syracuse competition. Triathlons, and the people who do them, are a big thing and more and more people are getting into them. - An update on the Cornell Ornithology lab and its most recent compilation of recordings of more than 4,000 bird calls from across the world. - Which fishing rod do you use for bass fishing? The choices today are numerous and ever-growing. - The Cornell Vet School emergency room, and all the strange cases of domestic and wild animals that it deals with on a daily basis. - The marked increase of memberships at local rod and gun clubs in the wake of the SAFE Act.. or.. the marked increase of attendance at such things as pistol shooting competitions. THE FIGURA CHALLENGE I laid out the "The Figura Challenge" over the Memorial Day weekend -- challenging readers to to check out 15 Central New York outdoors destinations during the summer. Several readers have already taken me up on it and I'm getting comments and pictures. It's not too late to get started! Each Thursday on this blog through the summer, I'll give an update on reactions, stories and photos submitted by readers about their travels to these destinations. Send your impressions and photos of the places you visit on the list to [email protected], 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

See the updated league standings. CNY TRAP LEAGUE RESULTS (Week 14, July 14) Northern Division South Shore (194) at Central Square (193) Pathfinder (200) at North Sportsman (187) Toad Harbor bye Southern Division Skaneateles (200) at Pompey (200) Bridgeport (195) at Dewitt (194) Camillus (200) at Three Rivers (193) Standings North Pathfinder - 20 points, 2178 clays Toad Harbor - 17 points, 2178 clays South Shore - 12 points, 2156 clays Central Square - 6 points, 2161 clays North Sportsman - 1 point, 2068 clays Standings South Pompey - 22 points, 2767 clays Camillus - 20 points, 2745 clays Skaneateles - 17 points, 2753 clays Twin Rivers - 14 points, 2685 clays Bridgeport - 11 points, 2714 clays Dewitt -0 points, 2637 clays SHOOTERS WHO HIT 25 OUT OF 25 CLAYS (Where 100, 75 and 50 are indicated, that means the shooter hit 25 out of 25 for four straight, three straight or two straight weeks, respectively) Bridgeport 50, Mike Bloss,25's Joe St.Pierre,Matt Carr Camillus 100, Tim Corrente,50, Len Kallfelz,25's, Dave Shipman, Conrad Hess, Bob Karker, Mark Doneburgh, George Boulet, Al Reich Central Square 25's, Kurt Brown, Myron Johnson Dewitt 25's, George Panarisi, PETER Catalano Jr, Joe Sacco North Sportsman 25's, Gary Rizzo Pathfinder 25's, Travis Bush, Alex St.Louis, Daniel Gregory, George Davies, Joe Pietrowski,Jessica Wirth, John Wallace, Mark Cole Pompey 50's Ralph Barker, 25's, John Messbauer, Jack Waldron, Jim St.Pierre, Mark Schmid, Mike Latocha, Dick Elliott,Alex Wisniewski, Taylor Marcy, Wayne Wilcox Skaneateles, 50's Jim Dries, Chad Landon, 25's, Jeremy Connors, Dave Bean, Frank Bozeat, Nate Perkins,Brian Perkins, Justin Slater South Shore 25's, Bill Detore, Mike Kirwin Three Rivers 25's, Mickey Novak, Doobee Freytag Toad Harbor, Bye Results courtesy of Dick Masterpole. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> I'm just getting settled in, but got out on the creek this evening and caught one, 20- inch pink salmon to show for my efforts," he said. </p> <p><br />Baldwinsville native Morgan Noffey sent me these pictures and the following email:</p> <p>"I'm currently in Alaska for 6 weeks doing a rotation for my final year of pharmacy school at the Air Force base.</p> <div id="asset-13097980" 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/13097980-large.jpg" class="adv-photo" alt="alaska.jpg.JPG" /><span class="photo-data"><span class="caption"></span><span class="byline"></span></span></span> </div> <p>Thought you might like to see some pictures of the fishing in the Anchorage area. This is ship creek which is literally in downtown anchorage,(not like the city of Syracuse..... That's for sure) with some of the best fishing you can ask for</p> <p>"I'm just getting settled in, but got out on the creek this evening and caught one, 20- inch pink salmon to show for my efforts. Still waiting on the silvers to start running. Hopefully I'll have more pictures to follow in the coming weeks !"</p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

"It's the intersection of two fishing worlds. You can catch fish from the lake and fish from the river," said Daher, who works at Mickey's Bait and Tackle shop in North Syracuse. James Daher calls it one of the "prime shoreline public fishing locations" in Central New York. It's Willow Bay, the stretch at the northeastern section of Onondaga Lake that begins off a rock jetty and stretches up the Seneca River to the Route 370 bridge. "It's the intersection of two fishing worlds. You can catch fish from the lake and fish from the river," said Daher, who works at Mickey's Bait and Tackle shop in North Syracuse. "The fishing is quite lucrative. Very infrequently do anglers leave this area without catching something. " The popular, picturesque area is contained within Onondaga Lake Park and split by Long Branch Road. There's picnic tables and bathrooms. In addition, there's a constant flow of walkers, joggers and roller bladers on the paved path that winds through it. Daher noted it costs nothing to fish there. The top two fish caught are carp and bass, but anglers also reel in all types of panfish (bluegills, sunfish, perch, rock bass), along with bullheads, catfish and the occasional northern pike, pickerel or tiger muskie. Yamil Rivera, 10, of Baldwinsville, holds up a nice bluegill he caught on a worm.David Figura | [email protected] "The most popular method is casting out a worm and letting it sit on the bottom," he said. Daher noted the smallmouth bass fishing from shore at times can be "phenomenal," particularly durin the early spring and fall as the fish migrate back and forth from the lake and river following the bait fish. The stretch has been the location of numerous carp-fishing tournaments, in addition to the Free Fishing Weekend derbies, which has been held for the past nine years during the state's two free fishing days in late June. Richard Zoll, of Solvay, who was Willow Bay on Tuesday with his camera taking pictures of wildlife, said he grew up in the area and constantly fished the lake from shore as a kid. "Back then, it was mostly carp and bullheads," he said. "But with the cleanup of the lake, you're seeing more bass, pike and lots of other species of fish." Tuesday afternoon, several youngsters escaped the hot, humid weather by fishing in the shade underneath the state Thruway bridge along the stretch. They were using worms and catching bluegills and round gobies. "There's a lot of gobies here on the bottom," said Brandon Lucio, 12, of Lakeland. "You can use them to catch bass. There's a lot of bass in here. I've caught them as big as 3 to 4 pounds. I caught a 5-pounder once using a gobie as bait." "And on the other side I've caught a lot of pickerel," he said. The youngster noted there's "a lot" of carp constantly moving through the area lately.. "The carp are spawning and going nuts jumping in the water," he said. SUGGESTIONS NEEDED: I've profiled 11 CNY shoreline hot spots since beginning this series last summer. Have a suggestion for a location I should visit and write about? Send your ideas to me at [email protected] View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> The Canal Corporation and the DEC have been receiving complaints recently about shore fires and trash being left at the location at the northern end of Cayuga Lake. </p> <p>The state Canal Corporation recently announced that an area adjacent to the gates at Mud Lock at the north end of Cayuga Lake is off-limits to fishing.</p> <p>"That has actually been the policy for some time," said Colin Brennan, a spokesman for the Canal Corporation. Brennan added, however, that fishermen have routinely been ignoring the ban.</p> <p>The area in question is about a quarter of an acre on the west side of the lock. It is surrounded by a 6-foot high fence. Nevertheless, anglers have been climbing the fence, Brennan said.</p> <p>Brennan said both the Canal Corporation and state Department of Environmental Conservation have been receiving complaints about shore fires and trash being left at the location.</p> <p>"We asking people to abide by the Canal Corporation policy and to not enter a restricted area," he said.</p> <p>Brennan said fishing will still be allowed on the shoreline above the lock near the DEC boat launch, and below the lock near the lower approach wall.</p> <p>"But fishing is never allowed in a lock - ever," he said.<br /></p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> The fish measured out at 22 inches and weighed 5.6 pounds. </p> <p></p> <p>Sean Horton, of Syacuse, holds up a lunker largemouth bass he caught over the weekend at Green Lake in Tully. Talk about a bucket mouth. Wow!</p> <p>He wrote: "I caught it using a rubber worm and a bullet sinker. The fish measured out at 22 inches and weighed 5.6 pounds."</p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

He won first place at archery competitions held in Indiana, Pennsylvania and Ohio. The Bordwell family of Tully continues to make news on the state and national competive archery scene. Jeff and Melissa Bordwell own the Legends of Fall outfitters storee in Tully, which includes an attached, indoor archery range and league for shooters of all ages. The father and the Bordwell's three children, Dillion, 21. Glen, 18 and daughter, Katlin, 15, have been shooting competitively for years, winning their share of medals, ribbons and trophies. Last weekend, as a result of his first place finish at an archery shoot in Marengo, Ohio, Glen won the International Bowhunters Organization's national "triple crown" for 3-D archery competition for his age group (15-18). He logged two other first place finishes in 3-D competitions earlier this year at Bedford, Indiana (March 17-19) and Erie, Pa. (June 14-16). Also last weekend, Katlin finished eighth last weekend the women's 13-18 age bracket and finished fourth overall during the women's national triple crown competition. Glen will be a senior this coming fall at Tully High School; Katlin will be a sophomore. The father explained a competitive 3D archery competition involves shooting a single arrow 40 different scenarios at foam targets in the woods at distances of up to 40 yards. The targets can represent as many as 20 different species of animals. "Animals such as deer, wolverines, wild sheep, bears, mountain lions, bison, elk, turkeys -- even alligators," he said. Bordwell said he and all three of his children are shooting in the IBO's World 3-D Championships set for Aug. 7-10 in Seven Springs, Pa. Other archery-related accomplishments logged so far this year by the Borwells include first place finishes for the father, Glen and Katlin in their respective age categories at the New York Bowhunters and Field Archers Association championships (paper targets) held in March in Oneonta; and at the IBO state 3-D championships held in May at the Seneca Duck Hunters sportsmen's club in Seneca, near Rochester. What about the oldest son? Dillion was been busy at school this spring, the father said. He recently graduated from the Pittsburgh Gunsmithing School, and has moved back home with the intent of expanding the firearms part of the Legends of Fall store. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

For those seeking a change of pace, there's the Vigil Forest Frolic, which consists of 7 and 15K trail runs through state forestlands in Cortland County. This weekend's Central New York running scene this weekend offers the choice of three, 5K races Saturday. For those with an adventuresome spirit, there's the Vigil Forest Frolic, which consists of 7 and 15K trail runs through state forestlands in Cortland County. 1). Run for the Border 5K Run/Walk, starts at 9 a.m. Saturday, Liberty St., Mexico. Fundraiser for cystic fibrosis research. Cost is $30 adult; $23 for youth (18 and under). For more, see the event's website at runfortheborder5k.com/race. 2). Welch Allyn 5K and Family Fun Run, 9 a.m., one mile fun run; 9:30 a.m., 5K run. Saturday, Welch Allyn, Mottville Road, Skaneateles. All proceeds to benefit Dogs2Vets program Pre-register before Thursday, entry fee for 5K is $20; race day, $25. Free for 12 and under. For more see event website at welchallyn5k.com 3). HEF Homer Hustle 5K Run/Walk, 8 a.m. Saturday, Homer Intermediate/Junior High School, Clinton St., Homer. Proceeds go to Homer Education Foundation. Cost is $20. For more, see event website at homercentral.org/foundation/hef.htm, call (607) 423-1856 or email , [email protected]. 4). 25th annual Virgil Forest Frolic, 7K and 15K trail runs. Begins at 9 a.m. Sunday, on Vigil state forest lands. Starting line is at Hauk Hill primitive campsite on Hauck Hill Road, which is .4 miles east of Bleck Road. The course consists of 50 percent narrow hiking path, 30 percent logging roads and 20 percent dirt roads. Sponsored by the Finger Lakes Running Club. Cost is $15. For more, see the Syracuse's Fleet Feet store event's calendar at fleetfeetsyracuse.com. For more race outside the area, see the Fleet Feet calendar. Last weekend's races: 1). Elbridge Fire Dept. Family Fun Days Cross Country 5K run. Final results were not available Monday. 2). Musselman Half-Iron Triathlon weekend. The weekend kicked Friday at Geneva's Lakefront Park with the Musselkids Triathlon (50-yard swim, 1.2 mile bike, ÃÂü mile run for ages 6-14) followed at 7 p.m. with the microMussel Super-Sprint Triathlon (100 yard swim, .6 mile bike and .2 mile run). The action continued at 9 a.m. Saturday with the sprint or mini-Musselman Triathlon (750-meter swim; 16.1 mile bike, 3.1-mile swim). The featured event, the Musselman Half-Iron Triathlon (1.2 mile swim 56-mile bike and 13.1 mile run) was held Sunday. For photos and results of local competitors, see Syracuse.com . 3). The Boilermaker. The 35th annual edition of this popular event, which ha runners coursing through the streets of Utica, began Sunday morning with the 5 K race, followed by the wheelchair division at 7:45 a.m. - and finishing with the featured 15K race, which this year had more than 14,000 runners. For photos and results of local competitors, see Syracuse.com View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> It was 50 inches long and weighed 43 pounds. </p> <p><br />Paul Calkins, of Baldwinsville, caught this massive muskie (50 inches, weight of 43 pounds) on the St. Lawrence River while staying at his camp at Chase Mills.</p> <p>"I caught it on a minnow with 30 -pound test line. It took about 15 minutes to land."<br /></p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

It was caught just off the shoal in front of his cottage. Chris Cote holds up a nice, fat smallmouth bass (5.25 pounds) that he caught and released recently while fishing on the St. Lawrence River (off Wolfe Island, on the Canadian side). He caught it on a plastic worm. He was fishing with his father, Dick Cote. He wrote: "Fish was caught in 5 feet of water, just off the shoal in front of the cottage. Jumped 3 times before being netted!!! Spectacular fish!!!!!! " View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

The boy caught fish measuring 18, 18, 16 and 14 inches. Max McKee, 10, of Manlius, caught this 18-inch largemouth bass on a worm. He was fishing with his father from a canoe on Lake of the Pines in Brantingham in the northern Adirondacks. The boy caught fish measuring 18, 18, 16 and 14 inches. Sounds like a great day of fishing! View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

He limited out (five fish) and the two 20-inchers were his biggest. Brian Davis, of Baldwinsville, holds up a pair of 20-inch smallmouth bass he caught recently on Skaneateles. Davis limited out (five fish) and the two 20-inchers were his biggest. He caught them all on a Mepps lure, he said. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

They finished second in their division -- fifth overall. Their time was 46 hours, 25 minutes - a feat that earned the team certificates, finishing pins and $600. A team of seven paddlers -- the majority from the Central New York area -- placed second recently in their division of the Yukon River Quest, a 444-mile canoe race that took competitors through wilderness areas of the Canadian Yukon. Touted as "The race to the midnight sun," the Yukon River Quest was held June 26-30. The local team competed in the Mixed Voyageuer Class, 7-person canoe. The local team, using a 28-foot, wooden canoe made of beech, consisted of Jon and Ashley Vermilyea, of Syracuse; Holly Crouch, of Syracuse; Lorraine Turturro, of Watertown; Kerry Newell, of Heuvelton; Paul Repak, of Boonville and Teresa Stout, of Warren, Pa. Vermilyea said his team finished 5th overall in a field of 67 canoes and kayaks. They did it by keeping a grueling pace, finishing in 46 hours, 25 minutes. The feat earned them certificates, finishing pins and $600. He said his tea varied in age from 29 to 65. They broke the race into three stretches. They started off by paddling more than 20 straight hours, covering nearly 200 miles. . "We were on the water from noon to nearly 9 a.m. the next morning," Vermilyea said, adding they stopped for seven hours afterward at Carmacks, a small village, where they ate a meal and got some sleep. They left Carmacks at 3 p.m. that same day and paddled until 6 a.m. the next morning to Kirkman Creek, a safety checkpoint. "We stopped there for about three hours and pretty much just talked and ate. Only two to three of us caught any sleep," Vermilyea said. The team paddled 100 miles for the final stretch, leaving at 11 a.m. and staying on the water until 8:25 p.m. that evening. The days were long and sun-filled, Vermilyea said. "The sun would set and come right back up. There was only about 3 to 4 hours of dusk-like light each day. Other than that, the sun was out - and it was relatively hot (about 85-90 degrees ). Several teams dropped out as a result of the heat," he said. Apart from the meals eaten at the two stops, the 7-person crew downed snack food, power bars and cans of Ensure meal drinks while in the canoe, Vermilyea said. There were few, if any potty stops while on the water, Vermilyea said. They carried "a device" to urinate in, which was used by both male and females in the boat. "For anything else, we basically just 'held it,' " Vermilyea said, adding. "Yeah, we're pretty nuts." The crew received help from a support crew of Vermilyea's father, Terry; Pam Repak (Paul's wife), Reana Inez (Kerry Newell's wife) and friend Kitty Leonard, of Syracuse. They prepared meals at the stops and drove the team's vehicles from the start to the finish line. Vermilyea, 43, a registered nurse at St. Joseph's Hospital in Syracuse, said there was one scary incident during the competition. "The second night we came across this tremendous lightning storm," V said. 'We considered pulling out of the water, but didn't. We were in a section with steep canyon walls and stayed close to them. It was pretty eerie." For more on the Yukon River Quest, see yukonriverquest.com. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

<p> The state Department of Environmental Conservation is taking public comments on the proposal until Aug. 16. </p> <p><br />The state Department of Environmental Conservation said earlier this week it is considering a two-mile stretch of Nine Mile Creek for a "no kill, catch-and-release" zone.</p> <p>Nine Mile Creek runs north from Otisco Lake into Onondaga Lake. The stretch being considered is roughly from the Amboy Dam down to Route 690, in the towns of Camillus and Geddes. It is close to the lake and downstream from the creek's heavily fished areas.</p> <p>Most of the land along the stretch is owned by Honeywell, the company that is spear-heading the Onondaga Lake cleanup project. There are also several other parts owned by others. The stretch has been off-limits to anglers for years. This spring, though, Honeywell opened one section to public fishing.</p> <p><script type="text/javascript" charset="utf-8" src="http://static.polldaddy.com/p/7246186.js"></script><br /><noscript><a href="http://polldaddy.com/poll/7246186/">Do you favor a 'No Kill, Catch-and-Release' fishing zone on Nine Mile Creek?</a></noscript></p> <p>Nine Mile Creek is among the most heaviest fished and stocked trout streams in the state. It's stocked by the Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery in Elbridge. This spring, nearly 20,000 brown and brook trout were put into its waters.</p> <p>"The DEC received a lot of angler requests for (a no-kill stretch) on Nine Mile Creek over the years, but felt public support from one would not be high enough due to the popularity of this stream with a variety of anglers," said DEC spokeswoman Linda Viera.</p> <p>Viera said with a portion of the Honeywell land being opened to public fishing this spring, the DEC felt now was the time to act on a no-kill zone - with no impact to anglers who are already catching fish upstream. If approved, anglers could only use lures and artificial flies in the stretch. Live bait would not be allowed.</p> <div id="asset-13075102" 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/13075102-large.jpg" class="adv-photo" alt="2013-07-11-mjg-AmboyDam2.JPG" /><span class="photo-data"><span class="caption">Jonathan Gratien age 8 of Syracuse had a snagged line while fishing in Nine Mile Creek at the Amboy Dam on Thursday evening. </span><span class="byline">Mike Greenlar | [email protected]</span></span></span> </div> <p>The proposal is one of several changes the DEC is considering to state freshwater angling regulations that were announced this past week. Based on public feedback and further evaluation this summer, DEC will decide on Nine Mile Creek and other changes. Public input will be accepted through Aug. 16.</p> <p>Currently, there's two catch and release sections of streams within a 30-minute drive of Syracuse. One is on Skaneateles Creek; the other, on Chittenango Creek.</p> <p>David Seifritz, president of the Iroquois Chapter of Trout Unlimited, favors the proposal on Nine Mile, noting the stream empties into Ononondaga Lake, which the trout move into and out of from on that part of the stream. He said while his group has no official position on catch and release fishing, most of its members practice it.</p> <p>"With the restrictions on keeping and consuming fish from the lake, it makes even more sense," he said.</p> <p>The matter will come up before the Onondaga Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs at its delegate meeting Monday at the Dewitt Fish and Game Club, said Stephen Wowelko, the federation's president.</p> <p>Mike Cusano, chairman of the Onondaga County Fisheries Advisory Board, said his panel will discuss the proposal Tuesday.</p> <p>"We'll be interested in looking at feedback from a sportsmen's perspective," he said. "It was previously off limits and it does increase access for anglers. Does it warrant stocking? I would assume it would."</p> <p>Jake DeCapio, owner of the Wayfarer Co., a fly and spin fishing supply store located upstream on Nine Mile Creek on Route Route 174, is an enthusiastic supporter of the proposal.</p> <p>"Even after the cleanup of Honeywell, the fish aren't the safest to eat," he said. "A lot of other streams have 'NO Kill' sections - why not Nine Mile?</p> <p>"Sure, there may be a few disappointed people. But look at the bright side. In a few years, anglers will be getting trophy fish out of that stretch."</p> <p>For more on the Nine Mile Creek proposal, other changes to the state's freshwater regulations and how to submit comments <a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/91959.html"> visit the DEC website </a> at dec.ny.gov.</p> <p>Hard copies of the list of changes being considered, as well as instructions on how to submit feedback by regular mail, can be obtained by contacting Shaun Keeler, at New York State DEC, Bureau of Fisheries, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4753.</p> View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

Bridgeport's Vince Valois and Skaneateles' Urb Wormer have both hit 25 out of 25 clays for four weeks in a row. CENTRAL NEW YORK TRAP LEAGUE RESULTS Week 13 (July 9) NORTHERN DIVISION TOAD HARBOR (200) AT PATHFINDER (200) CENTRAL SQUARE (195) AT NORTH SPORTSMAN (187) SOUTH SHORE (bye) SOUTHERN DIVISION BRIDGEPORT (195) AT CAMILLUS (196) POMPEY (200 ) AT DEWITT (192) THREE RIVERS (184) AT SKANEATELES (198) Shooters who hit 25 out of 25 clays (Where 100s, 75s and 50s are indicated, that means the shooter hit 25 out of 25 four , three or two weeks in a row, respectively) Bridgeport 100 Vince Valois; 25's Mike Bloss, Ron Falkowski Camillus 75's Tim Corrente; 25's Ben McIntyre,Tom Anthony,Len Kallfelz Dewitt 25's Brian Erdmann North Sportsman 25's Henry Gass Pathfinder 75's Bob Weldin, Bill Chillson; 25's Claudia Jenks, Paul Anderson, Paul Clarke, John Fish, Ed Mason, John Barney Pompey 50's Joe Wilcox,Tim Wilcox; 25's Todd Way,Bob Fallert,Brad Mierke,Ed Baker,Joe Pistello, Ralph Barker. Chuck Haaf Skaneateles 100 Urb Wormer; 50's Pat Logan, 25's Bill Main, Jim Dries, Chad Landon, Justin Slater South Shore Bye Three Rivers 25's Jared McClellan Toad Harborr 50's Rich Kissellstein,Nick Ranalli,Craig Chesbro; 25's Pete Kostyk 1st,Glen Adams, Mark Cowlin Sr., Gary O'Dell, Joe Macewicz, Ray Cole Results courtesy of Dick Masterpole View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

Send your comments and photos to [email protected] so I can include them in my weekly updates. Looking forward to hearing from you. Here I'm pictured with my dog Cali at a waterfall at Fillmore Glen State Park in Moravia, one of my favorite spots.Katie Figura The summer is nearly half over and there's still time to take in the 15 CNY outdoors destinations that I highlighted when I first issued "The Figura Challenge" on Memorial Day Weekend. I know the rain put a damper on the weekend plans of many last month. Staff writer David Tobin's story today, though, gives hope that we'll see sunny weather this weekend and beyond. In recent weeks, I've heard from folks who've visited locations Taughannock Falls, Bear Swamp, the Sterling Nature Center (with its eye-opening great blue heron rookery), Chittenango Falls, the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and Pratt's Falls. I'd like to hear from others about their trips. Reader David Baldwin wrote me recently: "I like your 15, Taughannock Falls is maybe our favorite. Years ago, with the kids, we walked the Taughannock Falls Creek. Camped and picnic there too, many times. You have to add Watkins Glen and also Robert G. Wehle State Park. "Robert G. Wehle is near Sackets Harbor on Lake Ontario. The park, named after Mr. Wehle an avid dog lover, breeder and artist who dedicated his life to sculpture, conservation and English Pointers. Contained on the park are monuments to his prize dogs and a vistor center about raising show dogs." Check out my list. Do yourself and your family a favor. Mother Nature has been generous to this area and she does not disappoint. Send your comments and photos to [email protected] so I can include them in my weekly updates. Looking forward to hearing from you. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

After anglers leave, the debris left on the bridge includes fish line, bait cups, dirt dumped from bait cups, used hooks, leftover lunch, dead fish, dead bait and assorted other unsightly litter, she said. Maysel Markham, of Baldwinsville, read with interest my story on the Baldwinsville bridge, which I called a CNY shoreline fishing hot spot. She felt the following was left out of the story: "As a resident of the village of Baldwinsville I truly appreciate you putting our wonderful village in your newspaper. You are right that the number of people fishing at certain times of day has increased & because you named it "Hot Spot # 10" there will be even more people there. "But the main thing that your picture fails to show is all the people that try to fish on The Red Mill Inn property which is private & Paper Mill Island where there is no fishing allowed. "However, my main gripe is with the condition of the bridge where all the people fish (also not in your picture). After they leave, the debris left on the bridge includes fish line, bait cups, dirt dumped from bait cups, used hooks, leftover lunch, dead fish, dead bait and assorted other unsightly litter. "With the naming of this as "Hot Spot # 10" I can on;y assume there will be more out of towners drawn to our lovely village where they will leave more trash not only on the bridge but on the surrounding parking lots which truly makes this a "lovely fishing mecca." Thanks for your comments, Maysel -- specifically about the areas where people shouldn't be fishing. I also believe, like you do that, that fishermen should clean up after themselves. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

Hot spots for walleye on Oneida Lake have been Lewis Point, Billington Bay and around Shackelton Shoals. CNY FISHING REPORT INLAND TROUT STREAMS/LAKES: Many sections of area streams and lakes have been stocked. They include: Cayuga County: North Brook, Owasco Inlet, Salmon Creek and Fall Creek; Cortland County: Otselic River; Cortland County: Little York Lake, Merrill Creek, East Br. Tioughnioga River, West Br. Tioughnioga River, Casterline Pond and the Otselic River; Cortland County- Little York Lake, Merrill Creek, East Br. Tioughnioga River, West Br. Tioughnioga, Casterline Pond and the Otselic River; Madison County: Lebanon Reservoir, Eaton Brook Reservoir, Upper Lelands Pond, Stonemill Brook, Beaver Creek, Canastota Creek, Limestone Creek, Payne Brook, Chittenango Creek, Canaseraga Creek, Chenango River, Cowaselon Creek, Old Chenango Canal, Oneida Creek, Sangerfield River, and the Otselic River; Onondaga County: Nine Mile Creek, Onondaga Creek; West Br. Onondaga Creek, Tannery Ceek, Spafford Brook, Furnace Brook, Fabius Brook, Limestone Creek, West Br. Limestone Creek, Geddes Brook, Carpenters Brook, Butternut Creek, and Skaneateles Creek. (Hotline number is (315) 689-0003); Oswego County: Light House Hill Reservoir, Black Creek, North Br. Salmon River, Rice Creek, East Br. Salmon River, Salmon River and West Branch of Fish Creek; Tompkins County: Enfield Creek, Virgil Creek, Buttermilk Creek, Salmon Creek, Fall Creek and Sixmile Creek and Cayuga Lake. LAKE ONTARIO Fishing continues to be slow for brown trout and very slow for chinook salmon. Some stable weather would really help to improve the fishing. Brown trout are in shallow water 40-50 feet, down 20-35 feet from the surface taking flutter spoons and stingers off downriggers using lead-core lines. If you can find some off-colored water try fishing stickbaits and small spoons in the area during the early morning. As the day gets brighter, moving to deeper water has been helping to extend the brown trout bite. Lake trout are on the bottom in 120 to 130 feet of water and are taking fire plugs and peanuts with cowbells as well as spoons. Some chinook are being taken in 150 feet of water on flashers with cut bait and dodgers and flies. SALMON RIVER There are a few Atlantic salmon and Skamania strain steelhead still being taken in the upper river. There are also some smallmouth bass and rock bass being caught in the lower river. OSWEGO RIVER The river is quite high with the recent heavy rain. This makes for tough fishing. However, there still should be catfish and sheepshead (freshwater drum) in the river Try using crayfish or night crawlers as bait. ONEIDA LAKE Walleye bite really turned on this week. Successful anglers are catching using Dixie spinners with night crawlers and fishing along weed lines in about 10 feet of water. Hot spots have been Lewis Point, Billington Bay and around Shackelton Shoals. CAYUGA LAKE Anglers are catching lake trout trolling down 70 to 90 feet in 100 to 150 feet of water with spoons or flasher and flies, fished off downriggers, copper wire, or Dipsey divers. Vertical jigging is also working in 70 to 90 feet of water. Atlantic salmon are being taken on spoons fished 25 to 40 feet down. There is a lot of bait being marked in 100 feet of water. Bass and panfish are being caught on the north end. (New development: Fishing will no longer be permitted in the area adjacent to the gates at Mud Lock on the north end of Cayuga Lake. Abuse of the site by anglers, including leaving trash and having shore fires has prompted the Canal Corporation to close the area to fishing. There are also safety concerns at that location. There is no problem using the DEC fishing access site just upstream of the lock, however.) SENECA LAKE Fishing continues to be good for lake trout with anglers getting them 40 to 70 feet down over 90 feet of water. They're hitting spoons and flasher and flies. Vertical jigging with plastics is also still working in 50 to 135 feet of water. OWASCO LAKE Anglers trolling down 30 to 50 feet with spoons or flasher and flies continue to get lake trout on the north end. Yellow perch and bluegill are also being caught on the north end. OTISCO LAKE Walleye fishing has slowed down but a few walleye are still being taken by anglers trolling with stickbaits or spinner rigs during the day. Look for bass near shore and along the weed edges. A variety of lures and artificial baits should work this time of year, including spinnerbaits, jigs, plastics and top water lures. SKANEATELES LAKE Fishing near shore with tube jigs, spinnerbaits, or topwaters would be a good starting point for the smallmouth bass. If not catching fish, move slightly deeper, and try drop-shot rigs or live bait such as minnows or crayfish. SANDY POND: A few walleye and northern pike are still being caught on the pond. Anglers are also getting bluegills and a few yellow perch. Largemouth bass are also being caught regularly, try using plastic worms, Texas rig worms and spinner baits. The higher water level has helped the fishing and boating conditions. ST. LAWRENCE RIVER Bass are being caught in deeper water, around 25 feet. Best bait has been crayfish. Northern pike bite continues to be strong. Many successful anglers are using minnows, fishing in the weeds in 15 to 25 feet of water. SODUS BAY Panfish are being taken on small jigs, minnows and worms. Bass fishing continues to be good for anglers using bass jigs, plastics and topwaters. WHITNEY POINT RESERVOIR The lake level is up about 4 feet with the recent heavy rains. Be sure to check that the launches are usable before driving here. Meanwhile, the walleye bite has been good for anglers fishing worm harnesses, jigs and crankbaits. White crappie fishing continues to be good with most of fish being found away from shore. Smallmouth bass are hitting on crankbaits near shore View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog

It's unclear at this point how many are still out there in the wild locally or statewide, officials say. In this 2010 photo, Joe Watkins stands next to a wild boar that he shot on Saturday near his home in the Cortland County town of Scott. The boar had one-inch tusks and weighed about 475 pounds. Itâs being held up by a backhoe. Legislation that would give wildlife biologists and other officials a new weapon in the war against wild Eurasian boars in this state is awaiting Gov. Andrew Cuomo's signature. The legislation -- A3767, and its Senate companion, S5733 -- gained approval from state Legislators in the final days of this year's legislative session. The legislation, if approved by Cuomo, would take effect Sept. 1, 2015. It would ban the possession, sale, distribution or transportation of wild boar. In addition, it prohibit their importation, breeding and release into the wild. The legislation is in response to state and federal wildlife officials who say such actions are key to taking these animals, which can grow up to nearly 500 pounds, off the state's landscape. The wild swine, mostly Russian wild boars, have a tendency to escape from private hunting preserves and proliferating quickly. Areas where that has happened include parts of Onondaga, Cortland, Tioga, Sullivan, Clinton and Delaware counties. Feral swine, which have been described as "Bad News for New York" by the state Department of Environmental Conservation, are a harmful and destructive invasive species. They're omnivores and their menu is expansive. They'll disturb and prey on ground nesting birds and their eggs, young deer fawns, snakes, lizards, rodents -- even road kill. In addition to native plants, they dine on just about any agricultural crop. They like to wallow in wet areas, where they destroy the local vegetation, cause erosion and negatively affect water quality. They have razor sharp tusks and according to the DEC "can be aggressive toward humans, pets and livestock." These wild pigs can also carry and transmit at least 30 different diseases. In recent years, the job of getting rid of these animals locally has been passed back and forth between federal and state wildlife biologists. DEC spokeswoman Lori Severino this week said since enclosed (private) shooting facilities do not have to be licensed, the exact number of how many places have wild boar is not known. She added, though, "We know of 12 such facilities in New York that offer boar hunts. Four of them are in DEC Region 7." Last summer, a three-person team from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, upon getting cooperation from property owners in the northern Cortland/south Onondaga counties, used a combination of trapping and hunting to take out 40. It's unclear at this point how many are still out there in the wild locally or statewide, officials say. "Since Jan. 1, we've been working with the state Department of Environmental Conservation, actively searching for feral swine," said Justin Gansowski, who led last summer's local effort by the USDA. "If anyone sees any, please report them" Gansowski said. He said to call 1-866-487-3297. View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog