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27.12.09

Frost-biters Make it into the Burlington Free Press

The Burlington Free Press ran an article today on the Frostbite Fleet of Lake Champlain. 
The article was written by Lawrence Pyne and it's titled: Serious Anglers Ignore Frostbite For Fish Bites.

Here is also a great video found on You Tube:



Fish on, fish H8 me.
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Where's the ice?

If we don't get some sustained cold weather soon, to build ice, there won't be a lot of ice fishing happening on Lake Champlain.

The weather is supposed get cold later this week...
but it did last week too.  It got real nice and cold, then, warmed up and it's been raining cats and dogs today.  Looking out my window is almost depressing.

What we need is good cold weather, the kind that makes ice form and make noises as it grows and thickens:




And...ice fishing really doesn't suck like the next title implies!



There'll be ice soon...
I hope.

Fish on, fish H8 me.
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20.12.09

Shooting and Spearing fish on Lake Champlain

It seems each year, there is controversy surrounding the shooting of fish in Vermont.
Some argue that it isn't a safe sport, others point out the absence of accidents.
I came across this interesting video and wanted to show it.

Enjoy.


Vermont fishermen along the shores of Lake Champlain are the only citizens of the US who retain the right to 'shoot' fish. Each year, pike return in large numbers to spawn in the marshes of the islands in Lake Champlain. There is a long fishing/hunting tradition of both spearing the fish at night at culverts, and of shooting the fish in the marshes. You don't actually shoot the fish but just under it, to stun it, where you can then simply pluck it out of the water. It is a cherished tradition among it's practitioners.


Fish on, fish H8 me.
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18.12.09

2010 Sea Lamprey Control Petition is Available on-line

A petition addressed to the Governor of Vermont, Agency of Natural Resources Secretary, and Vermont Commissioners of the Department of Environmental Conservation, Department of Health and Department of Fish and Wildlife is available on line.

The petition is available to read and sign at http://www.petitiononline.com/Lewis010/petition.html

This is the forth year the petition has been written and presented to Montpelier in an effort to continue the necessary control of Sea Lamprey in Lake Champlain.

I would take great pleasure in knowing my readers took the time to read and sign this valuable tool to benefit the Lake Champlain Fishery.


Above, is a large 16" Sea Lamprey caught while fishing in Lake Champlain aboard the "Digitroll".



This photo shows a large Sea Lamprey attached to a Lake Champlain Brown Trout with another older scar visible on the fish.  This photo was taken while aboard the UVM research vessel Melosira.

More information on the control of Sea Lamprey on Lake Champlain can be found here on the New York DEC website.

Again, PLEASE take a minute to read and sign the petition: http://www.petitiononline.com/Lewis010/petition.html

Thank you!


Fish on, fish H8 me.


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January Can Bring Great Ice Fishing Opportunities

News release from Vermont.gov

January Can Bring Great Ice Fishing Opportunities

WATERBURY, VT – Vermont offers great ice fishing in lakes throughout the state, and the action normally is great beginning in mid-January, depending on the weather. Vermont Fish & Wildlife recommends at least six inches of solid ice for safe ice fishing.

Vermont’s premier fishing destination, Lake Champlain, offers many ice fishing opportunities. According to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, ice anglers can find quality fishing for many species on this 120-mile long lake, including landlocked salmon, lake trout, northern pike, yellow perch, white perch, walleye, crappie, and smelt.

“Lake Champlain attracts twice as much fishing activity during the winter as during the summer, particularly in the northern third of the lake,” said State Fisheries Biologist Brian Chipman. “The plentiful yellow perch is the mainstay of the winter fishery, but many ice anglers also find good fishing for other species.”

Traditional northern pike hotspots include Lake Champlain's Kelley Bay, Missisquoi Bay, Dillenbeck Bay, Carry Bay, Keeler Bay, St. Albans Bay, the shallow flats south of the Sandbar Causeway between Milton and South Hero, and the area south of the Champlain Bridge from Addison to Benson.

Later, as more ice forms, landlocked salmon and smelt will be caught in the Inland Sea north of the Sandbar Causeway. There is no closed season for trout and salmon on Lake Champlain.

If cold weather provides good ice on the deep-water areas of the lake, lake trout will be found off the west shore of Grand Isle and in Outer Mallets Bay, Shelburne Bay, Converse Bay, and Button Bay south to the Champlain Bridge. Smelt can be caught in several of these areas, as well as at other sites between Thompsons Point and Button Bay. While walleyes can show up anywhere in Lake Champlain, the most consistent winter action can be found in the southern end of the lake off Benson and Orwell, as well as the northern end in Swanton and Alburg.

Yellow perch and other panfish are being caught throughout Lake Champlain in the bays and shallows as well as on many other Vermont waters.

Vermont’s ice fishing season for trout, salmon and bass starts January 16 and continues through March 15 on 40 other large Vermont lakes. For a list of those lakes, go to page 50 of the 2010 Vermont Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping, available where licenses are sold and at http://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/.

For more information, contact the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, 103 South Main Street, Waterbury, VT 05671-0501. Telephone 802-241-3700 or email: fwinformation@ state.vt.us.

To locate places to stay and help on the latest fishing activity, go to the Vermont Outdoor Guides Association website (www.voga.org) and click on "ice fishing."

For a list of Vermont approved bait dealers, go to http://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/Fish_baitdealers.cfm, or contact Fish & Wildlife for a copy of the list.

Source: Agency of Natural Resources


Fish on, Fish H8 me
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12.12.09

2009 "SOFT-WATER" in REVIEW

I put together this slide-show of our 2009 soft-water adventures...
We had a great year of "soft-water" fishing Lake Champlain, and gained a lot more knowledge about this great fishery.

Soon, it will be time to hit the ice for hard-water action...
Pulling Perch through the ice!

My apologizes for the long winded slide-show!



Thanks for watching!

Fish on, fish H8 me.



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5.12.09

Lake Champlain International, Inc. Succeeds in Garnering National Support for Lake Champlain Sea Lamprey Control

American Sportfishing Association appeals to U.S. Senators, Congressmen, and Governors to permanently fund management.

Click here to go to the LCI Page.


Posted using ShareThis

Fish on, Fish H8 me.
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3.12.09

9.13 Pound Landlocked Atlantic Salmon in Champlain

Recently, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service were assessing Sea Lamprey wounding rates by shocking fish in the lake.
During their efforts, they shocked (recovered and returned to the lake) this very impressive Landlocked Salmon.  The fish weighed in at 9.13 pounds and measured 26.1 inches!



Also, on the same trip, they handled this huge American Eel.  The Eel was larger than the 36" measuring board they had on board, and to my knowledge, is the largest American Eel observed in Lake Champlain.



Fish on, fish H8 me.
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29.11.09

Miller Brewing Company

I'm into supporting the Miller Brewing Company by consuming large quanities of Miller Lite Beer.

I can't drink it as fast as they can make it,
but...
I've got them working two shifts.

Anyway... I wanted to share my favorite "Old School" Miller Lite television Commercial. 
Great Vintage Stuff!





Oh, may as well post this version too!
Aahh...It's even better!




Fish on, fish H8 me.

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Miller Brewing Company

26.11.09

MY NEW FAVORITE PET!



I think I just found my new favorite pet.

I'm sure he'll fit in just fine,,,

 fishing on Lake Champlain!

How could you not LOVE this little guy?

I think I'll call him "NOT Landlocked"





Fish on, fish H8 me.


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25.11.09

Smoked Salmon


One of the ways we enjoy our catch of Landlocked Atlantic Salmon from Lake Champlain is to smoke them over a cool smoke (less than 200° F). 
For smoldering wood, I like to use apple if I can find it.  If not, I use hickory.  Either way, I soak the wood chunks and chips overnight in clean water.  This helps the wood smoke and smolder, and reduces the instances of ignition.

I soak my fillets in a brine solution (see below) overnight in the refrigerator, taking care to be sure the fillets are entirely immersed in the solution. 
After a good overnight soaking (at least twelve hours), rinse the fillets well under cold running tap water.  Place the fillets, skin side down on a drying rack.  I like to use the racks in the kitchen oven as drying racks, and I line the bottom of the oven with newspaper to catch any drips.  With the fillets spaced on the drying racks so they don't touch each other, brush them generously with pure Maple Syrup. 
Try to get real pure Maple Syrup! Being fortunate enough to be in the state of Vermont, we always have Pure Vermont Maple Syrup around the house.
Once the fillets are brushed with syrup, let them dry for at least an hour, I like to let them sit for three or four hours.

Smoke your fillets as cool as possible,  the cooler the smoke, the longer the fillets can tolerate the smoking process without becoming overdone and dry.  I monitor my smoker and don't let it exceed 200°F.  If I can smoke fillets for longer than 5 hours (depends on thickness of fillets also) I'm happy, and so are the fish!

The most recent batch will be competing with Turkey and all the fixings at the annual Family Thanksgiving Day Feast.  Two very nice Lake Champlain Landlocked Atlantic Salmon have been smoked, vacuum packed, and are awaiting being set out and served as appetizers!



Brine Solution:
Be sure to use a glass bowl for the brine solution!
2 quarts water, 1 cup white sugar, 1 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup molasses, 3/4 cup non-iodized salt.
I like to use an electric mixer to completely dissolve the salt and sugars.


Fish on, fish H8 me.

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23.11.09

Voices For The Lake Survey: Share your thoughts and ideas about Lake Champlain

Voices For The Lake Survey: Share your thoughts and ideas about Lake Champlain

Posted using ShareThis

If you love Lake Champlain, use Lake Champlain, or have concerns about Lake Champlain, please follow the above link and participate in this important survey.


Fish on, fish H8 me.
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12.11.09

Big Salmon Are Being Caught on Lake Champlain.

Lake Champlain is giving up some real nice Salmon lately. 
Check out these pigs!



Jeremy with a beautiful Landlocked that weighed in at 6.4 pounds.




Al with a real nice pig.
Big Fat and Clean!
6.2 pounds
24 inches long
14.75 inch girth!



Reggie with a beautiful 5.7 pounder




Cathy with a 5.5 and a beauty just under 7 pounds.
Congratulations Cathy.


Bill with a real pig at seven pounds!



Todd's monster at 7.6 pounds


Paul's HUGE 25" beast


Jeff with two real dandy Salmon




Mike and his six pounder


Rob's beautiful 21" salmon.
The first decent fall fish from the Inland Sea


Todd's 22" and 26-1/2"
NICE!



Bill with a beauty


Kevin's Shootout winners


Yours truly and a personal best six pounder



Fish on, fish H8 me.

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5.11.09

Frostbite Fleet Salmon Shootout a Great Success!


The First Annual Frostbite Fleet Salmon Shootout held November first on Lake Champlain was a great success.  Turn out was more than anticipated for the first year of this annual event.  Things went very smoothly from the launching of boats on a single ramp, the shot-gun start, right through the awards ceremony and "tailgate" party that followed.
If I have my numbers correct, there were 25 boats filled with nearly 70 participants.  Channel 68 on the Marine VHF was quite a buzz during the six hour tournament.
Nearly 900 dollars went out to the top three places in the event along with some very nice prizes including custom rods and salmon specific tackle and gear.  On top of the prizes for the winners, many of the participants went home with some very nice door prizes.  New "toys" for the next trip out!

The overall winner was able to take home a beautiful trophy designed by Randy Colomb.  Randy put his heart into this trophy as is very evident.  This beautiful trophy will have the winners name along with the date of the event, engraved on a brass tag.  The trophy will then be passed on each year with the latest winners name added.  Beautiful job Randy, hopefully next year you can "take it back home"!



Here are the WINNERS of the FIRST ANNUAL FROSTBITE FLEET SALMON SHOOTOUT:

First place: Kevin Favreau with 2 Salmon, total weight 7 lbs, 8 oz.
Second place: Tim Bird with 2 Salmon, total weight, 7 lbs, 6 oz.
Third place: Frank Kurant with 1 Salmon, weighing 2 lbs, 5 oz.

The biggest fish of the event went to Kevin Favreau with a beautiful Lake Champlain Landlocked Atlantic Salmon that measured 22.5 inches and weighed 4 lbs, 9 oz.

Congratulations to the winners!


The winning bunch along with Trophy creator Randy.






Kevin Favreau, the over all winner with his winning Landlocked Atlantic's.


Fish on, fish H8 me.




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25.10.09

Six Pound Landlocked Smashes Personal Best



A 24 inch, six pound Landlocked Atlantic Salmon SMASHED by personal best by more than 1.5 pounds today while fishing solo on Lake Champlain. 
Granted, I've only been fishing the lake since 2004 but this fish hit and stuck!! When the net slid under him, I'm sure my whoops and hollers where heard from one end of the lake to the other.
The fish hit a Tamiron Honeybee number 1575 at 40 feet down, over nearly 200 feet of water at 2.4 miles per hour GPS.

I didn't see the release, as I had just reset the rod after releasing a nice Lake Trout and was making corrections to my course.  The lure hadn't been in the water for more than 60 seconds when the big bruiser hit.
The fish made a magnificent jump, completely leaving the water and catapulting through the air.  He then dug, hard, for all he was worth.  At one time during the ten minute battle, I was worried he may pass the boat, out about 20 yard on the port side.  Digging, pulling, stripping line, bowing my rod and stressing my line.
I worked him, ever so gently, knowing this was a nice Champlain Landlocked.  Nice indeed, what I've been after since taking on these great, flashy, leaping fish in 2004.
After a bit, he began to tire and started to slide back behind the boat.  I began to work him up towards the stern of the boat and began to reach for my net.  I think he sensed what was inevitable and decided he wasn't ready to be conquered, not just yet.
I could see the fish... and then in the flash of an eye, he pointed his head towards the bottom, his tail waved, and the tip of my rod pulled hard toward the surface of the lake.  My reel began to scream once again and the line pulled ever so tight.  Sixty seconds or so went by and he began to relax, I could see my line rising out behind the boat and knew he was tired.  Soon he neared the surface, back 50 or 60 feet behind the boat, just under the surface, not wanting to touch the air.  I could see him, shiny, silver, beautiful!
I kept my rod tip high, worked him toward me gently, always keeping steady tension on him.  No jerks, no slack...steady as she goes.
I grabbed my net, laid it down just below the surface of the water and steadily pulled this beautiful Lake Champlain Landlocked Atlantic Salmon over it.
IN THE NET!
Safely in the boat!
My whoops and hollers then began...
Out loud, inside, and on the radio.

The fish gods owed me and my time was due. 
I've lost a bunch that "felt" the way this one did. 
But, up until today, I wasn't able to feel them...in the net!






Fish on
Fish H8 me™




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24.10.09

Frosty

Winter is on the way.
I stopped and took a couple photo's on the way to work the other day.  The air temperature was in the high twenties and the water temperature is in the mid fifties.
This is looking toward the "narrows" from inner Mallets Bay.  Frosty.  It'd be nice on the water. Fishing.


Inner Mallets Bay

Fish on
fish H8 me ™


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18.10.09

October 18th on the New York Side of the Lake

  Sunday, I had the pleasure of fishing on Rob's boat along with Bill and Mike.  We left  Burlington Harbor just before sun up with air temperature hovering around 28 degrees and headed out across the lake to the New York shoreline.  We began to set up just as the sky was beginning to show some light.
  We got set up just out side of Willsboro Bay and headed South.  Fishing was slow and we finally found some fish that would hit our lines near Ligonier Point.  We trolled around Ligonier Point  for a while and then decided to head further south towards the Mouth of the Bouquet River.  Entering the River Delta, we had a salmon hit, a "barely legal" fatty that was released to be caught again another day.  We trolled out around the shallow delta, trying to stay on the ledge and found a few more fish just south of the red buoy.  Nothing big, but enough to keep us active and happy.
  After a few passes in this area we decided it was getting near time to head back.  We pulled our lines and headed over to make a pass or two outside the Burlington Breakwater.  Rob was setting out a lead core line, only had half a color out when a salmon hit. "Hey Fish On" he yells.  We thought we'd be into them good at the breakwater but it wasn't meant to be.  That was the only fish netted on the Vermont side today.
  Time to go we agreed as Mike and Bill had other engagements to attend.  All in all not a  bad day.  We didn't "smoke 'em" but had a riot.  Great company on a Great Lake! We ended up netting 8 Salmon and 1 Lake Trout.  We lost 4 or 5 other fish that didn't want to stay hooked.  We kept a total of 3 Salmon and the Lake Trout for the grill.
Lead core set ups, 4 to 5 colors seemed to take most of the fish.  The fish were hard to find and finicky, and most of them wanted small red and white spoons today.  The laker took a larger blue and white Magnum spoon from Tamiron.

The fishing should get better from here on out.  Get out there if you can.

Fish on, fish H8 me.™
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15.10.09

Are the Salmon Beginning to Fall Back Into the Lake?

It's still early in the fall for the cold water species fishing to kick off in Lake Champlain but it looks as though it has begun.

Indications are that the Salmon are beginning to return to the lake after their annual migration up the tributaries.  Some of the local fisherman have been out since late summer, mostly catching smaller, immature fish that were stocked this spring.

However, recently some bigger, nicer landlocks are reportedly being caught.

"CrazyIvan" boated 14 legal Salmon and lost at least 10 during a recent outing.
Take a look at this beautiful 24" Landlocked Atlantic landed by CrazyIvan, fishing solo, in heavy seas!


Congratulaions to CrazyIvan on his impressive catch.

On another boat, a crew of three managed an impressive GRAND SLAM.  An outstanding catch of the four Cold Water species that Lake Champlain has to offer. Landlocked Atlantic Salmon, Brown Trout, Lake Trout, and Steel-head!  AMAZING!



Congratulaions to all!

Of the Salmon, this trio netted 22 legal sized fish. A great day on Lake Champlain.

Kicking off the fall "Frostbite Season"!


Fish on, fish H8 me.
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9.10.09

Two More Sponsors Join the Frostbite Fleet Salmon Shootout

Two more sponsors have jumped on board to help with goodies for the FIRST ANNUAL FROSTBITE FLEET SALMON SHOOTOUT.

Lake Champlain International and Fish 307 have come aboard to show thier support for what is to be a very exciting event.

Fish on, Fish H8 me.
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4.10.09

Salmon Shootout UPDATE

Apparently the projected turn out for the Frostbite Fleet Salmon Shootout  to be held on November 1st is going to be better than projected.
Preregistration is now available for participants of the tournament.

Anglers can preregister by stopping in at  Vermont Home and Marine in Williston Vermont.  Stop by and see Ron Winters (digitroll).  Ron is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 9:00 a.m to 5:30 p.m. And Saturdays 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Preregistration is not available on Tuesdays or Sundays.  Those are Ron's days off.

All participants will need to check in by radio or in person with the "staff" on site, prior to the "shot-gun" start at 7 a.m.

Tight lines to all!

Fish on, fish H8 me.
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28.9.09

1st Annual Frostbite Fleet Salmon Shootout


The 1st Annual Frostbite Fleet Salmon Shootout is scheduled for November 1st at the public launch on Converse Bay in Charlotte Vt.

First things first.  I'd like to thank Shawn Hayes of Fish Whisperer Guide service in Fair Haven Vermont for taking the bull by the horns and getting this tournament off the ground.  Also helping out is Kevin (Dragnballs) and Todd (Crazyivan).  I hope I haven't left anyone out!

This is going to be an exciting event for the salmon fisherman, as the Landlocked Atlantic Salmon will have returned to the lake from spawning in the tributaries, and will be on the feed.  Heavily on the feed!

What is the "Frostbite Fleet" you might ask?  Well, check out this video, I think it sums it up pretty well!




There are several local bait/tackle and sport shops getting involved, along with a major lure manufacturer, supporting the event, and providing  prizes.  Thanks to them!

Tamiron Sporting Goods, manufacturer of the famous Honeybee, "Home of Lures Made by Fisherman for Fisherman!"
Dockside Outdoors   Raymond Road, Colchester VT 802-891-6158
Bill's Sport Shop  US Rte 2, Grand Isle VT 802-372-4531
Midstate Sporting Goods Rte 7, Ferrisburgh VT 802-877-3776
Norm's Bait and Tackle   Bridge Road, Crown Point NY 518-597-3645
Also~Randy Colomb (Suprise), star of above video.  Randy ties some magnificent flies!  I understand he's going to provide a few of his flies, and possibly an "Ice Trophy"!  He might even throw in a Frostbite Fleet hat or two!

The entry fee for this event is only $20.00 per fisherman.  Payout is 70% of the fees received.  Back up date in case of foul weather is November 8th.
Registration is on the day of the event (again, November 1st) from 6 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. The tournament starts at 7 a.m. and ends at 1 p.m.  All participants must be within 50 yards of the launch area by 1 p.m.
Eligible species are Landlocked Atlantic Salmon, Brown Trout, and Steel-head.  Each fisherman is allowed to enter two fish with a minimum length of 18".
A couple more rules: No non-event anglers on board.  Fish must be hooked, played, and brought to the boat by one single angler. Fish may be netted by another registered angler only. A one ounce per minute penalty for each minute after 1 p.m. First come-first served at the weigh in station.  Any unsportsmanlike behaviour, either on shore or on the water will result in disqualification.
The fellas setting up this tournament aren't yet sure if they'll be able to get a "certified" scale yet.  Therefore the scale used will be agreed upon by tournament entrants prior to the start of the event.

This will be a fun event and I encourage everyone who enjoys Lake Champlain Salmon fishing to come out and participate.  Hopefully this event will continue each fall and get better and better.

Good luck and tight lines to all!!!

Fish on, fish H8 me.



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25.9.09

Lamprey Control Scheduled for Lamoille River

The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department announced today that the Lake Champlain sea lamprey control team is scheduled to begin treatment of the Lamoille River on September 30, with the lampricide, TFM.

This is the first time that the Lamoille River has been scheduled for treatment. A significant population of sea lamprey larvae was recently discovered there. The Lamoille River is the only Lake Champlain tributary to be treated this year, in a continuation of a long-term effort to protect the lake's fishery from the parasitic sea lamprey.

Sea lamprey control is a high priority component of the Lake Champlain fisheries restoration program jointly administered by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Native lake trout, landlocked salmon, the endangered lake sturgeon, walleye and other fishes in Lake Champlain will benefit.

“Sea lampreys have caused devastating impacts on fishery restoration efforts in Lake Champlain,” said Vermont Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Wayne Laroche.

In the Lake Champlain system, most immature sea lamprey live in streams for four years before descending into Lake Champlain to prey on other fish. Under the sea lamprey control program, TFM (3-trifluoromethyl-4-nitrophenol) is applied in precise concentrations to the streams in a continuous, metered manner over a 12-hour period in order to kill the immature, larval form of the sea lamprey, while having little or no effects on populations of other aquatic species. Biologists also control sea lamprey reproduction in some smaller streams by trapping and removing adult sea lampreys during their spring spawning runs.

During and following the TFM treatment, temporary water use advisories will be in effect downstream from the Peterson Dam in Milton, and in surrounding lakeshore areas. The Vermont Department of Health recommends that the treated river and lake water not be used for domestic or recreational uses for the short advisory period. Agricultural water users in the affected area are also advised not to use river or lake water during the advisory period. Fish & Wildlife has set up a toll free number (1-800-640-3714) for the public to obtain information on the treatment and water use advisories.

Fish & Wildlife staff have identified all riparian landowners in the treatment area and informed them of the planned treatments. The department also provides affected residents with a supply of water upon request for household or agricultural needs if their use of surface water in the affected areas is restricted during the advisory period.

Local television and radio stations will broadcast the dates when advisories begin and expire. The treatment schedule is subject to change by weather conditions, stream flows or technical problems that may arise during the treatment. Residents in the advisory area will be kept informed of any such changes.
Studies show that sea lamprey control decreases wounding and scarring rates on fish, and it can increase populations of lake trout and landlocked salmon. Angler surveys showed that more and substantially bigger trout and salmon were caught during the experimental Lake Champlain lamprey control program in the 1990’s.

Lamprey wounding rates on Lake Champlain lake trout and landlocked salmon have declined substantially in the past two years due to recent lamprey control efforts. Wounding rates in 2008 were the lowest since 1998. Angler reports and fishing derby results this year show that more larger trout and salmon are being caught, indicating increased survival of the fish due to the reduction in parasitic sea lamprey numbers.

Fish on, fish H8 me.
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24.9.09

U.S. Senators pushing back on ethanol

This is good news for the boating enthusiasts!

The National Marine Manufacturers' Association reports that several U.S. senators have increased pressure on the ethanol lobby by introducing strong legislation to curtail higher ethanol/gas blends than the currently marketed E10 (10 percent ethanol). The Mid-Level Ethanol Blends Act of 2009 (S. 1666) would keep new fuels off the market unless they're compatible with on-road and non-road gas engines.

The proposed legislation, if quickly passed, could block the ethanol lobby from gaining an Environmental Protection Agency waiver to sell E15. The marine industry believes E15 would adversely affect vessel engines and fuel systems. The NMMA submitted more than 30,000 comments to the EPA in July - all from boating community members opposing the waiver. The EPA has until December 1 to make a decision.

Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Ben Cardin (D-Maryland), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) and Mary Landrieu (D-Louisiana) introduced the ethanol bill on September 14. S. 1666 would require the EPA's Science Advisory Board to study fuel compatibility before granting waivers. (The Clean Air Act prohibits the sale of mid-level ethanol blends without such a waiver.)

"During these difficult economic times, equipment damage due to ethanol-gasoline fuel blends only adds to the many challenges facing our nation's farmers, fishermen, independent woodsmen, and recreational industry," Sen. Collins said in an NMMA press release. "As we pursue strategies to lessen our dependence on foreign oil, we must also take action to ensure that ethanol fuel blends are safe and efficient for small engines."

The NMMA says mid-level ethanol blends may increase air emissions and create performance, durability and warranty issues for marine engines. Currently, no recreational marine products have been designed to run on fuels containing greater than 10 percent ethanol.

Read the bill here.

Fish on, fish H8 me
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23.9.09

Lamoille River to Receive Lamprey Control Treatment!

Great news!!!

On September 10, 2009 , the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation issued Aquatic Nuisance Control Permit 2009-C05 to the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife.

This means the Vermont Department of fish and Wildlife has the "go-ahead" to treat the Lamoille River with an aquatic pesticide to control Sea Lamprey.

The "Lampricide" will be introduced into the river near the bottom of the Peterson Dam during September or October of this year. Local residents report receiving the necessary notices that the treatment is currently scheduled for September 28th.

This is great news for the much needed Lamprey Control for Lake Champlain. This is especially desired for treatment of Sea Lamprey populations affecting the Mallets Bay and Inland Sea areas of the lake.

A copy of the permit is available here.



Close-up of the adult sea lamprey's jawless, suction-cup like mouth and its rasping teeth and toothed tongue.
 credit: Great Lakes Fishery Comm.




"Local" Lake Champlain 14" Lamprey



Fish on, fish H8 me.


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15.9.09

Way too cool video

Not Champlain related for sure....
but...
Way too cool not to share!!

Tarpon and Permit fishing at it's best!

WARNING: THIS VIDEO CONTAINS LANGUAGE THAT MAY BE OFFENSIVE TO SOME VIEWERS!

Enjoy.







Fish on, fish H8 me.

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14.9.09

Check out this COOL FISH!!!

Check out this fish...
a very cool fish....
A deep water fish...
Awesome eyes...

It has a transparent head!!!




Fish on, fish H8 me.
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9.9.09

Governor Announces $500,000 in Clean & Clear Grants

News Release:
Montpelier, Vt. - Governor Jim Douglas has announced that $500,000 in Clean & Clear grants is available for ecosystem restoration projects.


"These grants will help our watershed partners improve water quality town by town across Vermont," the Governor said. "Vermonters are working together for our future environmental prosperity. That is the beauty of the Clean and Clear Program -the improvements we make on land have direct impacts on protecting Vermont's rivers, streams, ponds and lakes."


The Center for Clean and Clear is accepting one-page project "pre-proposals" until September 30. Through a competitive process, Vermont municipalities, local or regional governmental agencies, nonprofits and citizen groups can apply for the grants.


The Center is particularly interested in projects that: improve stream stability; incorporate the science of fluvial geomorphology in river corridor management decisions; protect against flood hazards and improve in-stream and riparian habitat; mitigate the effects of hydrologic modification associated with either agricultural operations or urban development; protect and restore riparian wetlands; re-establish lake shoreline native vegetation and related shoreline erosion corrections; and enhance the environmental and economic sustainability of agricultural lands.


Projects designed solely to address invasive species will generally not be considered.


Governor Douglas made water quality one of his top environmental priorities when he created the Center for Clean and Clear six years ago. Since then, the state has invested more than $40 million and leveraged an additional $40 million in federal funds to implement water quality programs that have garnered national recognition and awards.


The Center for Clean and Clear will then work with proponents to develop either more detailed proposals or project work plans for funding consideration. More information and grant guidelines can be found at: http://www.anr.state.vt.us/cleanandclear/index.htm.
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7.9.09

Perchin'

Now that the on-set of slower fishing for Landlocked Atlantic's is here, we've switched up to jigging for Yellow Perch. Our target is Yellow Perch but as luck would have it, other species sometimes join in as well.

Cathy and I were out last weekend, and did pretty well. We ended up with somewhere around 4 dozen Yellow Perch, a few dozen White Perch and two Small Mouths.

Here's Cathy with a nice summer perch.
We didn't take time to measure or weigh this smallie but I'm guessing it at 3.5 pounds.
Quickly released.
This morning, Ashley and I went out. We probably caught 5 or 6 dozen fish. They were pretty much a 50/50 mixed bag of Yellow Perch and White Perch.
Some of the White Perch were pretty good sized and very scrappy!
Ashley and I had a riot!

Ashley with a nice summer Yellow Perch.


















That's two successful trips targeting Yellow Perch since the salmon shut-down. Another time we went out, the lake was too bumpy and we weren't comfortable getting out of St Albans Bay. The Bay is just too warm, and probably has less oxygen. We couldn't locate any fish.

These fish were taken off Kibbie Point in 40 feet of water, most taken within the bottom two feet. Jigging with minnows. All released.

We noticed these two hitch-hikers on the steering wheel while we were fishing.
Fish on, fish H8 me.

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3.9.09

“WILL FISH FOR FUN” Kids Fishing Derby 2009




The free “WILL FISH FOR FUN” Kids Fishing Derby 2009 is scheduled this year for September 12th. This is a fun FREE event for Kids ages 2 through 14. Contestants get lunch and a tee shirt, as well as a "connection" with nature.

For the complete summary, visit the article at the Burlington Boat Yard Blog.

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1.9.09

Fish Hook Removal---Yikes!!!!

I'm not sure this is the correct way to remove a fish hook.
Or....
Sould I say....this probably isn't the way I'd like a hook removed from my hand.

However, if there isn't a doctor nearby, and there's plenty of whiskey, I'd give it a go!



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29.8.09

The End of the Summer Salmon Bite

With the recent cold front that has moved in, it appears that the summer Landlocked Salmon bite is pretty much over. The landlocks will now be "tight lipped" and will begin to start staging at the tributary's for their annual spawning migration. Yes, some fish will be caught, those that are aggressive and get something thrown in front of them that they feel the need to hit. Some of the tributary fisherman will get some fish, and when I hear of it, I'll post a report and hopefully have some photo's to share.
But, for the most part, it's over until late October or early November. When the time comes that the fish fall back into the lake, they'll be ravenous hungry, starved, and the fishing will be at it's best. It won't be uncommon to have a six, eight, or even 10 fish an hour day. The fishing will be non-stop, action packed, reels screaming, rods bent, silvers jumping, awesomely fun.
And....
I'll be back after them.
Until then, if I can get on the water--I'll target yellow perch.
This year was a banner year for salmon fisherman. With Sea Lamprey Control underway and the invasion of a new food source, the Alewife, the salmon are getting bigger and healthier.
Another bonus this year, especially on the inland sea, or northeast arm of Lake Champlain, was the high number of "incidental" Walleye caught by fisherman fishing for cold water species, Landlocked Salmon and Brown Trout.
I was fortunate enough to catch one this season, a nice 6.9 pound walleye that made up two delicious meals.



Here's a few more nice fish, both Landlocked Salmon and Walleye I thought I would post. Most all of these fish were again, from the inland sea.
10.5 Walleye and a nice Landlocked
11-1/2 pound Walleye
Beautiful Brown Trout and a Landlocked
Although these next two fish didn't come from the inland sea, I want to throw them in. This is the winning Landlocked Salmon taken during the LCI Derby. The anglers name is Alan Nute and this fish weighed in at 9.4 pounds. Congratulations to Alan.
Then, this season, again during the LCI Derby a huge record breaking Lake Trout was caught by 14 year old Patrick Dupont. This fished weighed an impressive 15.9 pounds and was the over-all winner. Congratulations Patrick!
The improved quality of the fish we're seeing this year is proof that lamprey control is working in Lake Champlain. Thanks to the many organizations that care about our lake and its fishery.
Fish on, fish H8 me!

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