The Lakecaster - Dec. 2009

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March 2010 • Lakecaster • 2

3 • Lakecaster • March 2010

2010 Schedule 1st Series

$15,000 Guaranteed for 1st place-1st Series January 16 February 13 March 6 April 10 May 15

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2nd Series June 5 July 10 August 7

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March 2010 • Lakecaster • 4

SAM RAYBURN & TOLDEO BEND

Editor’s Notepad Oh my goodness, I can’t remember when it’s been this cold this long! I’ve talked to several people about it, and no one can remember when it has. Finally, someone explained it perfectly. Global warming. Yes, we’ve been hearing about it for years, and I guess I just didn’t put enough stake in it! All of the tournament circuits are in full swing now, keeping everyone very busy. Busy is GOOD! All of the area businesses are bustling with guests and patrons. Fishing has been tough, though. I asked Todd Driscoll, Texas Parks & Wildlife Biologist, what his thoughts were on why it has been so tough on everyone. He said, “My theory is, that because of the sustained cold water temperatures under 50 degrees, the bass aren’t having to work very hard for their meals. Threadfin shad, for instance, go into shock when the water temps are under 50 degrees, and when those temperatures remain for long periods of time, they start dying. The bass can eat all they want without having to work very hard for it.” Water temperatures have been in the lower 40s, and some areas even registered in the 30s. That makes sense, and even helps explain why one tournament was won with a gold rogue occasionally twitched — like a dying shad! I’ve been anxious to go chase white bass and crappie, but have to admit I pulled the “just-a-

girl” card and let cold, wet weather chase me off. Our guides who try to keep us up to date each month in The Lakecaster have been keeping me informed as to what the fish are doing, and I am chomping at the bit to get out there. The Stump has seen a lot of great karaoke contenders, and the competition continues through March, so go enjoy the show! Jackson Hill is moving and shaking with several fun things and sending in their updates each month. Huxley Bay Marina will be hosting their annual Take A Kid Fishing event soon. It is open to any kid who wants to participate and is always a lot of fun for everyone. We are still wanting to see all of your great outdoor photos! Everything from beautiful to unique, odd to neat, to use on the front pages of the magazine. We hear from our soldiers abroad who receive the magazine, compliments of Ft. Polk, who tell us they’d love to see more pictures of home. Go enjoy everything outdoors, and until next month — keep a tight line! By PATTy LENDERMAN Managing Editor

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Jacksonville, Texas pro outfishes star-studded field on Sam Rayburn By Patrick Baker, FLWOutdoors.com

JASPER, Texas — In tournament fishing, it’s almost a sure bet that winners will say their dreams have come true. But when that sentiment was uttered Saturday by rookie Cody Woods, relatively unknown in professional circles, his sincerity was palpable, leaving one to wonder if some dreams are just bigger than others. So many facets of the Jacksonville, Texas, pro’s story magnified his FLW American Fishing Series win at stop No. 2 of the 2010 Texas Division on Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Woods doesn’t have sponsors; he was fishing in only the third FLW Outdoors event of his life; he was fishing against some of the biggest names in the sport of professional bass fishing like Tommy Martin, Larry Nixon and Bud Pruitt; and he was so nervous this morning he poured a gallon of oil in his boat’s gas tank. America loves its underdogs, so Woods’ win was well received by the weigh-in crowd — and not just his family and friends. “This is a dream come true,” Woods said, seeming almost shocked by his victory. “I may wake up tomorrow and be mad if this is just a dream. Somebody might have to drive my boat in, because I’m afraid I’ll wreck it.”

last year, so the win was even more special for Woods. Woods, who works a little more than half the year as a construction foreman, strung together weights of 15 pounds, 11 ounces on Day 1, 11-5 on Day 2 and 5-10 on Day 3 for a three-day total of 32-10 and winner’s check for $24,680. “I can finally get my milk out of lay-away,” Woods joked. Though many resorted to fishing deep this week in cold, windy conditions that made for a tough tournament, it didn’t work well for Woods in practice. When he caught a 5-pounder shallow in a creek before the tourney, he decided to commit to a shallow pattern. The vast majority of his bass this week were caught on a gold Rogue stickbait and 15-pound-test line. “I stuck to my game plan,” he said. “I just had to slow down and get real methodical. You could throw it out there and forget about it — count to 10, twitch it, count to 10, twitch it.” Woods would fan-cast the bait along grass lines, as shallow as he could get it, in the mid-lake area. He said he also caught a few of his fish on a red Rat-L-Trap with red Gamakatsu treble hooks. Pro Randy Cisler of Mesquite, Texas, converted a phenomenal daytwo catch into a runner-up fifinish nish and a check for $8,391. He weighed the heaviest sack of the tournament — 24½ pounds, including a 10½-pounder Friday — and bookended it with tiny sacks of 3-9 on Day 1 and 2-15 on Day 3 for a tournament total of 31 pounds. Despite missing what would have been his first win with FLW Outdoors, Cisler was still pumped. “I’ve had a wonderful, awesome week … I’m just glad to be here,” he said. “That’s the biggest fifish sh I ever caught.” Cisler caught his fish this week in the Norris Creek channel at a depth of about 27 feet. He caught them with Carolina rigging with • Keith Honeycutt of Temple, TX, a 7-inch Zoom Trick Worm in watermelon-candy color on a 1-foot won the Co-Angler division by leader anchored by a 1-ounce weight. over a 4-pound margin. Cody Woods said his father Pro Charles Bebber of Willis, Texas, weighed one of the heaviest Woods stands with the Co-Angler winner as the Pro champion. used to guide on Toledo bags of the day — three bass for an adjusted weight of 6-5 — to Bend Reservoir back come in third despite a penalty for a late return. Added to his Day when Martin and Nixon 1 weight of 8-10 and Friday’s 15-4 sack, his three-day total of 30-3 did the same, and when he was a boy, Woods would sometimes clean earned him $5,923. their fish when they returned to the marina. He said he was so star“I made two mistakes this week: being late today and making a struck at the top-10 meeting for pros Friday evening he could barely wrong choice as to where to go the first day,” he said. “Mental errors believe he was standing next to them, and though he was excited, he — they cost you.” was even more nervous. After trying to force a Rat-L-Trap bite — normally a go-to tactic But rattled nerves obviously didn’t stop Woods from claiming his on Sam Rayburn — Bebber tried pulling a ChatterBait through first major title this week from his father’s boat. His dad passed away deeper grass, which produced more keepers. Most of his keepers in competition came on black, green-pumpkin or white ChatMORE RESULTS Sonny Kopech, Troup, TX terBaits rigged with a swimbait as Rounding out the top 10 pro finalists of the AFS: 4th - 19-7 - $1,729 a trailer on 20-pound line, though 7th - 29-9 - $3,455 Kenneth Pellerinm Pasadena, TX he was finally able to catch two on a Buz Craft, Vidalia, LA 5th - 19-6 - $1,482 Rat-L-Trap. 8th - 29-7 - $2,962 Danny Cherry, Kountze, TX Veteran pro Tommy Martin of Robert “Speedy” Collett, Zapata, TX 6th - 18-10 - $1,235 Hemphill, Texas, started the day 9th - 23-9 - $2,468 Clint May, LaPorte, TX in ninth place, and caught the Bud Pruitt, Houston, TX 7th - 15-11 - $988 only five-bass limit Saturday to 10th - 23-5 - $1,974 Brent Broussard, Nacogdoches, TX help move him up the standings to Mike Moody, Alba, TX 8th - 15-0 - $889 fourth and earn $4,936. His weights Co-Angler Final Standings: Michael Taylor, Sam Rayburn, TX this week were 11-5, 9-15 and 8-13, 1st - 24-6 - $9,882 9th - 14-7 - $791 for a three-day total of 30-1. Keith Honeycutt, Temple, TX Bob McKeithen, Baton Rouge, LA “It’s been a tough tournament; 2nd - 20-0 - $3,953 10th - 12-13 - $692 today was especially tough,” he said. Bo Standley, Silsbee, TX Jeff Sprague, Forney, TX “But I do better in a tough tourna3rd - 19-14 - $1,976 ment. It seems like ones like Falcon Lake, where everybody catches limits,

• Excited, flabbergasted at his win, Cody heaves his trophy to the crowd.

it’s harder to separate yourself.” Before this week’s AFS Texas Division tourney started, Martin “found a lot of fish off in deep water” and said he wanted to be where the greatest numbers were. He fished many spots over the course of the tourney, but all week he fished deep with Zoom Trick Worms or Zoom finesse worms. His best colors were purple-smoke and black-emerald. Another veritable legend of the sport and good friend of Martin, pro Larry Nixon of Bee Branch, Ark., stayed with Martin during the event, and he said Martin had clued him in to what type of water to look for at the onset of competition. Nixon found such a spot in the mid-lake area, which produced limits weighing 9-4 and 18-12 over the first couple days. When he landed a 10-pounder and another fat Largemouth there Friday, fishing at a depth of 32 to 34 feet, Nixon said he thought he had a decent shot at winning it. “I came back to reality today,” he said of his lone bass that weighed 1-11. “All the shad got blown way out, and when they do that, all the bass follow and won’t come back to structure.” Nixon’s total weight of 29-11 was good enough for fifth place and $4,442. Friday’s Pro leader Keith Caka of Huntsville, Texas, also only managed one keeper bass today for 1-5, dropping him to sixth place. His

• Day 2 leader Keith Caka was the last to weigh in. Cody Woods watched nervously until the moment when his Pro win was declared, and he was dubbed champion.

limits over the first two days weighed 13-11 and 14-9 for a three-day total of 29-9 and $3,949. Caka thought sun could help his pattern, but when it finally came today, it was accompanied by a cold front and pressure system that he believes shut down his fish in the Buck Bay area. All week he fished on the inside of grass lines in 2 to 6 feet of water with a whitechartreuse ChatterBait with a swimbait trailer, concentrating on old lily pad patches. The FLW American Fishing Series Texas Division competition will resume June 17-19 for the third and final stop of the season at Toledo Bend in Many, La.

5 • Lakecaster • March 2010

FLW American Fishing Series Texas Division, Feb. 4-6

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 6

National Guard FLW College Texas Division, Feb. 6

Lamar U. wins on Sam Rayburn Reservoir By Chad Gay, FLWOutdoors.com

Top five teams from each Regional will advance to National Championship Justin Royal of Vidor, Texas, and Troy Luce of Beaumont, Texas, from Lamar University caught two bass weighing 8 pounds, 7 ounces, Saturday to win $10,000 in the National Guard FLW College Texas Division tournament on Sam Rayburn Reservoir, on Feb. 6. All prize money is evenly split between the school and Lamar University’s bass fishing club. NOTES: Schools competing in this week’s tournament included: Angelo State, Baylor University, Lamar University, Louisiana Tech University, LSU, LSU-Shreveport, Northeastern State, Oklahoma State University, Sam Houston State, Southeastern Louisiana University, Stephen F. Austin, Tarleton State Texas, Texas A&M, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, Texas A&M-Galveston, Texas A&M-Kingsville, Texas State University, University of Louisiana, University of North Texas, University of Oklahoma and University of Texas. The top five teams from each tournament will qualify for a Regional Championship, where the 1st place team wins $25,000 cash for the school and a Ranger 177TR bass boat for the fishing club. The top five teams from each Regional will then advance to the National Championship, where the 1st place team wins $50,000 for their school and $25,000 cash, and a Ranger 177TR bass boat for their fishing club.

THE REMAINING TOP 10 TEAMS

• Luce and Royal earned a $10,000 check for 1st place. The check will be divided equally between the college and the club.

• The top five teams: (Top) 1st: Troy Luce and Justin Royal of Lamar University; (L-R) 2nd: Jacob Heath and Kennedy Schwartzburg, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi; 3rd: Derek Doyle and Seth Peugh, Tarleton State University; 4th: Zach Sears and Brandon Dickenson, University of North Texas; 5th: Zach Caudle and Joe Landry, LSU-Shreveport.

2nd-Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Jacob Heath and Kennedy Schwartzburg, both of Corpus Christi, Texas, three bass, 8-6, $5,000 3rd-Tarleton State University Derek Doyle of Stephenville, Texas, and Seth Peugh of Grandview, Texas, two bass, 8-3, $4,000 4th-University of North Texas Zach Sears of Corinth, Texas, and Brandon Dickenson of Flower Mound, Texas, three bass, 7-7, $3,000 5th-LSU-Shreveport Zach Caudle and Joe Landry, both of Shreveport, La., one bass, 7-1, $2,000 6th-Texas A&M Paul Manley of Orange, Texas, and Andrew Shafer of Bryan, Texas, two bass, 6-2 7th-Angelo State Josh Seale and Austin Adcock of Leander, Texas, two bass, 3-13 8th-Oklahoma State University Nathan Gonsoulin of Blanchard, Okla., and Tripp Elliott of Stillwater, Okla., two bass, 3-13 9th-LSU Travis Laurent of Gonzales, La., and T.J. Goodwyn of Center, Texas, two bass, 3-2 10th-Texas A&M Kyle Bates of Missouri City, Texas, and David Doonan of Caldwell, Texas, two bass, 2-12

A complete list of results can be found at: collegefishing. com/tournament.cfm?tid=6510&t=results

• Troy Luce holds up the winning catch by him and partner Justin Royal of Lamar University.

Sam Rayburn hosts first S.E. Region By Nicole Corley

• John Cure caught the biggest bass of the men. It weighed 5.56 lbs., helping with a 3rd place finish for him and Christie Cure.

“The 2 of Us” Couples S.E. Region held its first event at Mill Creek Park. Nineteen couples participated. Fortyfour bass were brought to the scales with a total weight of 117.01 lbs. The average weight was 2.66 lbs. Mike and Donnell Greer placed first with five fish weighing 17.08 lbs. Donnell also had Ladies’ Big Bass with a whopping weight of 10.61 lbs. Mike and Brenda Atchley came in second with five fish weighing 16.06 lbs. John and Christie Cure were third with five fish weighing 15.32 lbs. John also had men’s big bass weighing 5.56 lbs. Ken and Sue Denney came in fourth with five fish weighing 12.76 lbs. David and Tina Bozarth were fifth with five fish weighing 8.58 lbs. We want to say thank you for everyone who fished with us, and we would like to thank our wonderful sponsors who made this possible: Cox Contractors Inc. for our plaques; Mill Creek Grocery; Gary Yamamoto; Ritter@Home; Sure Life and Rat-L-Trap. Our March tournament will be at Mill Creek on Sam Rayburn. For additional information, call 409-787-1712 or e-mail [email protected].

• Donnell Greer won Ladies Big Bass with this whopping 10.61pounder. It also anchored a 1st place win for her and Mike Greer.

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7 • Lakecaster • March 2010

The 2 of Us Couples, Jan. 24

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 8

Bass N Bucks East Texas series, Feb. 13

Rambo and Clark top the field to win By Patty Lenderman

Fishing is still tough, but it’s getting better! Bass N Bucks East Texas series anglers discovered better quality bass than has been seen in quite a while on Sam Rayburn Feb. 13. Three sacks over 20 pounds were weighed in, with Cory Rambo and Rusty Clark coming out on top by a nose. Snow one day, sunshine the next. For the second time this year, East Texas saw snow Friday morning before the tournament. By Saturday morning, the weather had made a change, starting in the 30s, with not a breath of wind. Overcast skies gave way to bluebird conditions by 11 a.m. and a gentle breeze, rippling the water. Among the first to weigh in was Chris Fontenot and Jaret Latta, having the first five-bass limit to come in with 21.22 lbs. Several other teams came through with weights in the teens, leaving them in lead position until Cory Rambo and Rusty Clark crossed the scales. They had one shy of a limit, but their weight nudged ahead of Fontenot and Latta by ounces, having 21.49 lbs. They also took over Big Bass for a while with their 7.68 lb. kicker. Big Bass honors were taken from them when John Lafitte and Chad Cole brought in their sack that included an 8.22 lb. sow. Stephen Johnston, fishing by himself in this event, challenged leaders with his limit weighing 20.14 lbs., marking the third and last sack over 20 lbs. to come in. When it was all said and done, Rusty Clark told the winning team’s tale. “Mostly we fished main lake drains 12-16-foot deep with Carolina rigs. We had three spots picked out and just ran a milk run, hitting each of them two or three times.” It was a slow bite, the team only had three fish in the boat by 10 a.m. “We caught our biggest bass around noon, and after that Cory broke off on our fifth fish using a football-head jig. We felt like it was a pretty good one.” As it turned out, they didn’t need that fifth fish to win. Bass N

• Holding the lead for a short while, Chris Fontenot and Jaret Latta won 2nd place with 21.22 lbs. Their five-fish limit included a 7.13 lb. kicker.

• Rusty Clark and Cory Rambo hold up their entire four-fish creel weighing 21.49 lbs., winning 1st place by ounces and over $15,000.

Bucks presented the team with the guaranteed 1st-place purse of $15,000. Ranger Boats is the premier boat sponsor in Bass N Bucks team trails, and offers a Ranger Cup bonus for the highest finishing qualified Ranger boat owner. Cory Rambo won the $2,500 bonus in addition to their 1st place winnings. They would like to thank Texas Marine, Castaway rods and Golden Triangle Equipment Rental for their support.

Chris Fontenot and Jaret Latta took front row seats in the crowd with their fingers crossed after weighing in their 21.22-lb. limit. They were bumped to a 2nd place win. “All of our fish were in deep water,” they explained. Having three spots picked out, they stuck to their plan all day using a

BassNBucks continued on P. 9

• Stephen Johnston missed his regular partner Danny Iles, taking on the field alone to win 3rd place.

drop shot with a straight tail worm. “It was tough — and cold! Our fish were in water 25-30 feet deep, at bare main lake ledges, and bit well until the sun came out around 11. Then they just shut down.” They were able to cull up twice before day’s end. Their sponsors include Terry’s Marine, Ranger Boats and Shock Wave Rods.

RESULTS Top Teams

1st $15,000 - 21.49 lbs. Cory Rambo and Rusty Clark 2nd $2,000 - 21.22 lbs. Chris Fontenot and Jaret Latta 3rd $1,000 - 20.14 lbs. Stephen Johnston (and Danny Iles)

4th $1,000 - 15.63 lbs. Tyler Bearden and Tommy Dickerson

5th $1,000 - 15.35 lbs. Chris Harvey and Sammy Atchison 6th $800 - 14.52 lbs. Chad Cole and John Lafitte 7th $800 - 14.47 lbs. Marc Woolems and Butch Hollis 8th $800 - 14.03 lbs. Brandon Crouch and Glenn Thibodeaux 9th $600 - 13.95 lbs. Gary Miettinen and Alan Miettinen 10th $600 - 13.34 lbs. Mike Atchley and Paul Shirley … and last in the money … 17th $500. - 12.71 lbs. Yarri and Wendy Schreibvogel Big Bass $1,000 - 8.22 lbs. John Lafitte and Chad Cole Bonus Cash winners

Ranger Cup - $2,500 Cory Rambo Cabela’s - $250 Mike Atchley

• Chad Cole holds up the 8.22 lb. bass, winning Big Bass honors for him and partner John Lafitte as well as one other nice catch.

Stephen Johnston took on the field by himself and won 3rd place. “I sure could have used the kid today!” He was referring to his son and partner Danny Iles. “Danny is fishing another college event today. I’m real proud of him, he’s doing well.” His plan was just to try for bites. “I started out in 15-18 feet of water with a football-head jig. I got a limit, but it probably only weighed about 10 pounds.” He decided to head north to another area using a Sebile Koolie minnow. “I caught three bigger ones on it, 4, 5 and 6 pounds. When the sun came out they quit. I didn’t catch another fish after 11.” Johnston is sponsored by Ranger, Mercury, Sebile, Foster Fence, Humminbird, MinnKota, Power Tackle, Costa, Grade Bass, Navionics, Falcon Lures and Gamakatsu. While everyone else seemed to be putting their efforts into deeper water, Chad Cole and John Lafitte went shallow. “We tried fishing deep, and caught a lot of short fish. Something just told me to move up,” John recalled. Heading to shallow water, 1½ feet deep, he caught the 8.22 pounder on a spinnerbait. “Muddy water was the real key.” Unlike others, their better fish did not turn on until after noon. The team won Big Bass honors and 6th place overall. There is a lot of money to be won in Bass N Bucks events this year. Three events remaining in the East Texas 1st series, the next to be held on Toledo Bend on March 6. Anyone can enter one or all Bass N Bucks tournaments. For more information, call 409-727-8941 or visit www.BassNBucks.com Thank you to all 2010 Bass N Bucks sponsors: Ranger Boats, Mercury, MotorGuide, Cabela’s, American Rodsmiths, V & M, Cyclone Baits, Vicious fishing, Lowrance, Tiremax, Wulf Outdoor Sports, ProRule, Snagproof, Jasper Chamber of Commerce, and FishingWorld.

• Top – 1st place: Rusty Clark and Cory Rambo, (L-R) Big Bass: Chad Cole and John Lafitte; 2nd: Chris Fontenot and Jaret Latta, 3rd: Stephen Johnston, flanked by Tournament Director Dave Concienne.

9 • Lakecaster • March 2010

BassNBucks continued from P. 8

• Cory Rambo received the $2,500 Ranger Cup bonus for being the highest finishing qualifed Ranger Boat owner

• Mike Atchley won the $250 Cabela’s bonus fishing with partner Paul Shirley.

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 10

American Bass Anglers compete on Toledo Bend for the 2nd 2010 event Courtesy of FishingOnAString.com

first step to the $680,000 championship and a slot in the Bassmaster Classic. Andrew Upshaw won the Boater side of the • Andrew Upshaw won the Boater’s weekend series with 16.85 pounds using a Talon side of the Weekend Series with football jig. 16.85 lbs. Congratulations to John Gillard for claiming 2nd in the Boater’s division this weekend; John brought in a sack of fish that weighed 14.27 pounds. The Big Bass in the Boater division was caught by Glynn Reid, weighing 6.33 lbs. The Co-Angler winner of the Bass Weekend Series was Brandon Lejeune, who could only weigh in three fifish, sh, and boy did he make the most of it. Brandon said he had fifive ve bites, and he kept the best three. Big Bass in the Co-Angler division was caught by Jacob John Meyer weighing 8.91 lbs. He also secured a 3rd place overall win with his single catch. The anglers took very good care of their fish. All were weighed in alive, and all were released back into Toledo Bend in good shape to be caught yet another day. The next event will be held March 20 at Grand Ecore ramp on the Red River. This will mark the third of fifive ve events for this division. For more information, call 888-203-6222 or visit www. The Bassmaster Weekend Series Louisiana Division District AmericanBassAnglers.com. 13, presented by American Bass Anglers, held their second 2010 event on Toledo Bend Feb. 13 at Cypress Bend. Fifty-three boaters fishing with 52 Co-Anglers overcame cold weather and a tough bite to procure precious pounds toward winning checks in this Boater Division Points leaders tournament as well as points toward future championships. Anglers have the choice of fishing either the Boater or Co390 Eric Jeansonne Angler divisions. Boaters are allowed a five-fish limit whereas 384 Brett Sellers non-boaters are only allowed three. Fishing this division is the 382 Bill England 380 Eric Gilcrease 375 Connie Edwards

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th

• John Gillard claimed 2nd in the Boater division with a sack of fish that weighed 14.27 lbs.

16.85 lbs. 14.27 lbs. 12.62 lbs. 12.14 lbs. 11.34 lbs. 9.90 lbs. 9.53 lbs. 9.31 lbs. 8.71 lbs. 8.38 lbs.

Top 10 Co-Angler Division

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th

Co-Angler Points Leaders

387 378 377 375 372

Top 10 Boater Division

Andrew Upshaw John Gillard Benji Duma Darold Gleason Brett Sellers John Travis Merritt Randy Clark Eric Jeansonne Glynn Reid Brian Shook

Brandon Lejeune Seccroco Guillory Jacob John Mayer Joel Mayer Michael Greer Jr.

• Co-Angler winner of the Bassmaster Weekend Series was Brandon Lejeune with a three-fish limit of 14.41 lbs.

Brandon Lejeune Richard Earle Jr. Jacob John Maye Bill Fountain Michael Greer Jr. Dwight Minogue Larry Beauboeuf Russell Craig Lewis Mark Richard Floyd Pittman

14.41 lbs. 10.95 lbs. 8.91 lbs. 7.36 lbs. 6.33 lbs. 5.78 lbs. 5.33 lbs. 4.93 lbs. 3.71 lbs. 3.20 lbs.

11 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Bassmaster Weekend Series, Feb. 13

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 12

FLW-BFL Cowboy Division, Feb. 20

George Jeane Jr. wins BFL season opener on Toledo Bend Robert Moore wins Co-Angler division

By Patty Lenderman

The Cowboy Division of the FLW-BFL tournament trail is now under way with its season opener on Toledo Bend. A draw tournament in a Pro/Am format, 126 boats launched from Cypress Bend Marina, Feb. 20. The lineup included several well-known heavy hitters, but George Jeane Jr., of Evans, LA, took the win in the Boater division. Gorgeous day It was a gorgeous day. The morning started out overcast and cool, graduating to a perfect springlike day with bluebird skies and barely a ripple on the lake. Water temperatures are slowly climbing as the big bass are staging in deep water ready to move to the shallow beds when the temperature gets just right. When the scales opened up at 3 p.m., anglers filed in to weigh their catch. Several bags were seen, with just one keeper in them. Steven Johnston registered the first double-digit weight, soon bested by Glen Freeman. As more anglers came in, weights continued to climb.

• George Jeane Jr., topped a field of heavy hitters to win the BFL Cowboy division season opener with 18-03.

Top weight The top weight of the day was caught by George Jeane Jr., catching 18-3 lbs. His day started out with a bang, catching the Big Bass of the tournament on his third cast. Pitting his efforts on the south end of the lake, he started his day using a crank bait in 20-30 feet of water. Wetting his livewells with a 10-9 sow, he stayed on the move looking for his limit.

“I probably hit 10 spots; three produced. I caught some on a crank bait, the rest on a redbug wacky crawler drop-shotted in up to 35 feet. The fish bit best for me between 10 and 11. I caught around 12 fish during that time,” he said. Ranger Cup contender George won 1st place in the Boater division, and was the top-ranking qualified Ranger Cup contender, winning an additional $2,000. He would like to thank Ranger, Yamaha, Lowrance, Berkley, Abu Garcia, Kool Well, and Fenwick rods for their support. • Fishing his first BFL tournament, Robert Moore caught a sack of solid chunks, weighing 17-12 to win the Co-Angler division.

Boater’s 2nd place Second place in the Boater division was won by Brian Brandon, with a 17-11 total. Brian had a nice 7-5 kicker in his bag, but was one short of a limit. “I’d have won if I had that fifth fish,” he said. Brian had found some fish during practice, but by tournament day conditions had changed and

BFL continued on P. 13

13 • Lakecaster • March 2010

BFL continued from P. 12

• The Big Bass of the tournament was caught by George Jeane Jr., weighing 10 lbs., 9 oz.

his tactics had to change, too. “I looked around and saw a lot of dying shad,” he said. Trying to emulate the baitfish, he chose a Wareagle ¾-oz. spinnerbait with double-willow blades in a silver-shiner color. “I had a lot of confidence in that bait,” he said. “I caught three nice ones on it, but the spinnerbait bite was over by 9:30.” Fishing in 50-degree, dirty water, he switched to a Carolina rig

• Second-place winner in the Boater division was Brian Brandon, with 17-11 on four fish.

• Co-Angler Larry Beauboeuf wins 2nd place with his 16-13 lb. limit.

at deep humps and ridges to catch his fourth and final fish. “I’d like to thank Jim Criswell at Amistad Marine. I had some motor issues, and he got me back on the water. I would also like to thank my wife, Diana, for hauling the boat for me to get it fixed,” he said. Fishing in his first BFL tournament, Robert Moore won the Co-Angler division with 17-12 lbs.

“I drew Dicky Newberry as my boater,” Moore explained. “I threw a ½-oz. red rattle trap all day. We fished three different spots, but only one produced. It was a grass flat, about 11 feet deep. I just kept jerking my trap through it.” He had a solid kicker in his bag weighing 6-6 to anchor his

BFL continued on P. 14

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BFL continued from P. 13 win. “The main reason I am here is for my 13 year old son. I am getting some pointers that I can teach him,” he said. Robert has always loved to fish, but when his son was 5 years old he was diagnosed with a high allergy to fish. Upon this discovery, Robert immediately sold his boat and all of his fishing equipment to assure there would be no issues aggravating his

son’s allergy. At 10 years old he was tested again and found he had grown out of the allergy. Robert began building his fishing arsenal, but had been out of the game for a long time. Entering this tournament to have the opportunity to fish with more experienced anglers to get him back in the saddle to teach his son the things he learned was his driving force. There will be five regular season events for the BFL Cowboy

Top 10 Boaters

Top 10 Co-Anglers

1st 18-03 - $4,394 George Jeane, Jr., Evans, LA 2nd 17-11 - $2,197 Brian Brandon, Elgin, TX 3rd 16-09 - $1,464 John Bowen, League City, TX 4th 16-08 - $1,025 Nick Diberardino, Huffman, TX 5th (tie) 15-09 - $842 Rick Rickman, Gainsville, TX Jerrel Pringle, Hemphill, TX 7th 15-04 - $732 David Waller, Fort Worth, TX 8th 15-02 - $659 Dean Lee, Longview, TX 9th 14-06 - $586 Jeremy Guidry, Opelousas, LA 10th 14-04 - $513 Glen Freeman, Converse, LA … and last in the money … 25th 10-08 - $256 Aaron Simmons, Shreveport, LA

Division, and the next stop is Sam Rayburn on March 6. Click to www.flwoutdoors.com for more information. • A tournament dedicated to his son, Robert Moore wields the trophy for the Co-Angler division.

1st 17-12 - $2,197 Robert Moore, Leesville, LA 2nd 16-13 - $1,098 Larry Beauboeuf, Natchitoches, LA 3rd 15-05 - $733 Brian Tolley, Katy, TX 4th 13-10 - $513 Ronnie Talbot, Mexia, TX 5th 11-10 - $439 Clay Henry, Many, LA 6th 11-03 - $403 Keith Rose, Harleton, TX 7th 10-03 - $366 Rick Schroeder, Fayetteville, TX 8th 10-02 - $330 Warren Whitaker, Woodville, MS 9th 9-15 - $293 Randy Pewthers, Pearland, TX 10th 9-09 - $256 Charles Goins, Anacoco, LA … and last in the money … 25th 6-01 - $128

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Bob and Yoli Narron battle ‘Tough Sam’ for the win on Lake Sam Rayburn By John & Jennifer Anderson

Cassell-Boykin Park, on beautiful Lake Sam Rayburn, was the host for the Feb. 6 C.A.S.T. Southeast opening tournament of the season. C.A.S.T. Southeast was greeted with very cool temperatures, 20 mph winds, and partial overcast then bluebird skies. There were 42 teams that fished the event. Bob and Yoli Narron of Hemphill, Texas, came to the scales with the winning three-fish stringer weighing in at 11.62 lbs. Bob and Yoli targeted the south end of the lake. This team utilized Texas-rigged baby brushhogs in watermelon candy colors to coax their fish to bite. Bob and Yoli were fishing in 2 to 3 feet of water. Yoli commented that it was just too cold to fish, but they kept at it. Congratulations to this team on their win!! Second place goes to new C.A.S.T. Southeast team members, Hau Nguyen and Dusty Rowland, of Minden, Louisiana. Hau and Dusty had a three-fish stringer that tipped the scales at 9.61 lbs. Hau and Dusty ran their Skeeter Boat, powered by a Yamaha outboard, south of the 147 bridge to start their day. Hau and Dusty used spinnerbaits and chatterbaits in off-color water to catch their three fish. Congratulations go out to this team on their second-place finish. Third place also goes to new Southeast team members, Clay Legg and Norma Cooper of Lufkin, Texas. This was the only team to bring a five-fish limit to the scales weighing in at 8.48 lbs. Clay and Norma fished mid-lake creek channel bends with grass lines in 2 to 4 feet of water. They were pitching soft plastics. Clay and Norma would like to give more details, but have a few more tournaments coming up. A job well done goes out to this team on their third-place finish. E2baits Big Bass Award goes to the firstplace team of Bob and Yoli Narron, who brought a healthy female that weighed in at 5.66 lbs. Congratulations on their Big Bass catch. Southeast would like to thank all of our past members for showing up to fish with us and extend a warm welcome to the following new members of C.A.S.T. Southeast: Hau Nguyen and Dusty Rowland, Clay Legg and Norma Cooper, Kevin Mason and Tacha Velasques, David and Molly Atwell, Ernie Provasek and Tommy Domingue, Sharon Stone, Shelby Reed, Mark and Amanda Finch, Sharon Withers, Josh and April Gunter, Daniel and Kathy Christopher, Donald and Mona Manning, Johnny Clawson and Dalene Felder, Karl Kellar and

• Bob and Yoli Narron win the “cold battle” and the tournament with a three-fish limit of 11.62 lbs.

• Yoli Narron brought in a healthy Rayburn sow that weighed in at 5.66 pounds, which won them Big Bass honors.

Melody Kellar, Richard and Marinna Carpenter, and Becky Ware. Thank you again for joining C.A.S.T. Southeast, and we welcome you to the C.A.S.T. family. A special thanks goes to Ashley Glenweinkel for helping with the picture-taking venture. C.A.S.T. Southeast would like to thank Texas Marine and Justin Mattingly for bringing out a Skeeter 21 I-class boat for show and tell. If you are in the market for a new Skeeter Boat/ Yamaha outboard, give Texas Marine a call. They have three locations in the East Texas area to serve you. Keep in mind that the C.A.S.T. championship, which will have regions from all over the state of Texas competing, will be on Lake Sam Rayburn, Oct. 22-24. We will be giving away a brand new Skeeter/Yamaha Outboard as a draw boat, and you are entered just by making the championship. You still have time to get joined up and qualify through you local region. C.A.S.T. Southeast would like to recognize our sponsors that make C.A.S.T. the greatest couple’s fishing trail: Skeeter Boats, Yamaha Outboards, Texas Marine, Castaway Rods, Academy Sports and Outdoors, Howard and Patricia Etue with E2baits, Monarch Trophy and Awards, Catch and Release, ProRule, Just Keepers Zip Weigh-in bag, www.fishingworld.

Current top six standings are: 1. Bob and Yoli Narron 2. Hau Nguyen and Dusty Rowland 3. Clay Legg and Norma Cooper 4. Mike and Kelly Gaubatz 5. Larry and Joyce Coleman 6. Johnny and Jolyne George

com, and The Lakecaster. Please support all of our sponsors. Next tournament information Our next tournament will be on Lake Conroe, out of Stowaway Marina, on March 6. Registration will be at the tournament site that morning. Registration will be between 5-6:45 a.m., while start time will be determined that morning before registration. We will allow trailering for the tournament and Stowaway Marina has plenty of ice, drinks and snacks for your on-the-water needs. Also there is an Academy Sports and Outdoors in Conroe for all you fishing needs. If you need directions or more information, please call tournament directors John and Jennifer Anderson at 832-514-0839 or e-mail them at [email protected].

• New Southeast team members Hau Nguyen and Dusty Rowland had a threefish stringer that tipped the scales at 9.61 lbs., which won them 2nd place.

15 • Lakecaster • March 2010

C.A.S.T. Southeast Opening Tournament, Feb. 6

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 16

Anglers Quest Rayburn Individual Series No. 2, Feb. 7

Bill Burns wins two in a row! By Bill and Barbara Long

Anglers Quest 2010 Sam Rayburn Individual Series No. 2 out of Mill Creek Park in Brookeland, TX, began this event with five anglers showing up to fish for the $675 purse. This 2ndsecond event of 2010 was started after the playing of the National Anthem at 6:45 a.m. The weigh-in time was conducted at 3:15 p.m. This Rayburn Individual Series, after all nine events, will provide the Angler of the Year with free entries to all 2011 Rayburn Individual Series events. The anglers entering all nine Rayburn Individual series events will automatically qualify for the two-day Tournament of Champions championship, Nov. 13-14, on Lake Palestine. A special highest-point Top 10 group of anglers will qualify to go to the Tournament of Champions, with a minimum of six events entered. Anglers Quest Tournament of Champions will guarantee $35,000 to 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. Sam Rayburn water was in good shape and about 1¾ feet below normal pool level, with water temps running 50-51 degrees. The weather at takeoff was a calm 32 degrees with a warming to 55 degrees by weigh-in time. The fish catching continues to be slow on Big Sam, as there was only one limit brought to the Individual continued on P. 17

• 1st: Bill Burns fought the tough fishing conditions to bag a five-fish limit, weighing 9.38 lbs., which won him 1st place and $600 for his day on the water.

• Gary Miettinen placed 2nd with his three-fish limit thatweighed 8.61 lbs. which included a nice 4.98 pounder, which netted him the Big Bass honors.

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scales, for a total of 12 bass at 25.57 lbs., making the average bass brought to the scales weigh 2.13 lbs. Bill Burns from Brookeland, TX, ran his bass rig to Black Forest lake points around grass to catch his bass jerking 1-oz. jigging spoons in 35 feet of water. He only managed to catch five keepers to finish in 1st place with 9.38 lbs. and made him $600 for his day on the water. Gary Miettinen from Channelview, TX, ran his Ranger bass rig to south-lake areas to finish in 2nd with his best three bass, caught on drop shot worms in 30-foot water around humps and ridges that tipped the scales at 8.61 lbs. Gary had the big bass of the event, a fine 4.98-pounder. He took home the Santone Lures and ZZ Lures gift certificates for his day on the water and $50 for the Big Bass. The entire results from this and all A/Q events put on by Anglers Quest can be viewed at www.anglers-quest.com. A/Q would like to give a special thanks to our sponsors who offer the incentive bonus dollars for our anglers in the Anglers Quest Tournament Trail, Tiremax, Bass

Guard Culling Systems, Bowden Marine, Santone Lures, ZZ Custom Lures, PAA Payday and the 2X Stratos Bonus. Please read the qualifications for these great incentives on our Anglers Quest Web site. Anglers Quest will be at Kickapoo Bait & Tackle on Lake Livingston on Saturday, February 13th & 14th for the 2nd of 9 Lake Livingston Saturday & 8 Individual Series events. On January 20th & 21st Anglers Quest will be at Lake Houston Marina on Lake Houston for the 2nd of 9 Houston Saturday & Individual Series events. Anglers Quest is now accepting credit cards. Call Mr. Bill or Barbara Long at 281-852-8842 for any information or entry. 2010 schedules & results for all Anglers Quest series events are now available online at www.anglers-quest.com. Anglers Quest suggests the use of these sponsor products and services: American Rodsmiths, Antex Roofing, Automated Mailing Solutions, Bass Guard Culling Systems, Big State Fabrication, Bowden Marine Sales & Service, Custom Built Awards, Check-It Stik, City of Jasper, TX-Chamber, Don McGill Toyota of Katy, Double ZZ Custom Lures, El Dorado Jacks, Executive Security

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17 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Individual continued from P. 16

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 18

Area Club Updates

Pictured from left to right are: 6th place - Brian Phelps, 5th place - Steve Burks, 4th place - Brad Lewing, 3rd place - Will Sylvest, 2nd place Weighlon Sylvest, 1st place - Louis Rouleau.

The Sportsman’s Bass Club of Southwest Louisiana The Sportsman’s Bass Club of Southwest Louisiana held its annual awards banquet on Saturday, Jan. 23, to recognize the top finishing anglers of the 2009 season. The top six anglers are: 6th place - Brian Phelps, 5th place - Steve Burks, 4th place - Brad Lewing, 3rd place - Will Sylvest, 2nd place - Weighlon Sylvest and 1st place - Louis Rouleau. These top six anglers will represent the Sportsman’s Bass Club in the ALBC Best of Six Tournament, held on Toledo Bend on April 30, May 1-2. Also recognized for Big Bass of the Year (8.46 lbs) and Heavy Stringer of the Year (20.14 lbs.) was Carl Hanchey. If you are interested in joining the Sportsman’s Bass Club, please visit their Web site at www.sportsman-bassclub.com to find out how.

Get Reel Bass Anglers Congratulations to our tournament winners — James Merrill took first place with a 14.92-pound stringer.

5 lbs., but Sam managed to take the big bass pot with a 5.74 lb. large mouth. Nice fish, Sam!

Second place went to Sam Lofton with a 14.40-pound stringer, and third place went to Roy Belknap with a 12.10 limit. Our tournament was held at Preacher Ray’s on lake Sam Rayburn, Feb. 20.

Our next tournament will be March 13, at Cassells Boykin at 6 a.m. To join our club, please call Craig Booth, 409-344-2011 or Bernie Shiflet, 936-897-9061. You can also join us on tournament day, but you must be 30 minutes early for sign-in.

Out of the 17 anglers who attended the event only a few were able to hit double digits. Our winners reported the bite was slow and scattered throughout the lake and working a pattern was out of the question. The fish were responding to Senkos if worked slowly in the shallow water. James Merrill and Sam Lofton both had fish over

Top 10 Standings: Eric Peveto - 41.73 Sam Lofton - 35.02 Roy Belknap - 28.48 Craig Booth - 25.41 Dale Gore - 23.30

Leslie Hicks - 22.03 Johnny Dewald - 21.40 Larry Nichols - 21.35 Brian Adams - 21.16 Danny Cherry - 20.79

Beaumont Bass Anglers Beaumont Bass Anglers had their Toledo Cypress Bend Federation Tournament on Feb. 6th. There were 13 anglers that fished the tournament.

Our next meeting will be March 1st at 6:00 p.m. in the lodge at Gander Mountain. The next club tournament will be Saturday, March 6th out of San Augustine Park on Sam Rayburn.

Dean Morgan won the tournament with 14.07 lbs. John Hatton came in second with 12.66 lbs. and Mark Jackson came in third with 10.41 lbs.

If you have any questions or for more information, contact Jon Erb at [email protected]

Sabine Bass Club January Results Our club fishes one of the last two weekends of the month. This month the dates were Jan. 23 and Jan. 30. Three of the guys chose to fish the first weekend having 70 degree weather and mild winds. Five of the others had to fish on Jan. 30 in the sleet and snow. Several of the members chose not to fish this month at all. Dave Laborde won 1st place with five fish that weighed 12.5 lbs., Tammy Davis (who fished in the snow!) had five fish that weighed 9.42 lbs., and came in 2nd. Third place went to Monty Arthur with threee fish that weighed 8.14 lbs., which included the big bass of the tournament that weighed 3.8 lbs. Tim Braud came in 4th with two fish weighing 4.4 lbs., and Keith Jenske finished out the top five with 1.12 lbs. All fish were released back into the lake alive.

SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2010 6 A.M. - 3 P.M.

(must be in weigh-in line no later than 3 p.m.)

CASSELS-BOYKIN PARK ON LAKE SAM RAYBURN REGISTRATION

Friday, April 30, 2010, Noon - 8 p.m. & Saturday, May 9, 5 a.m. - 6 a.m. Entry fee $200 per team (1 or 2 person team)

5 fish limit with culling allowed $2500 guaranteed first place (based on a minimum of 90 teams)

KID FISH

Off the bank (area will be designated) Two Divisions 5-8 year old, 9-12 year old • Life vest must be worn at all times. $10 entry fee • 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Registration will take place before competition begins. For entry forms and more information contact Lindsey Mott at Memorial Health System of East Texas 936/639-7613 • memorialhealth.org

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19 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Benefiting families in need at The Arthur Temple Sr. Regional Cancer Center in Lufkin

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 20

GET READY!

Is coming to Sam Rayburn April 13-18 Full product demo’s @ Powell Park Marina During the McDonald’s Big Bass Splash! More ex citin informat g ion coming n ex t month!

For directions to Powell Park Marina call 409-584-2624

AM 8:31 – 10:31 PM 8:56 – 10:56

Sun: 7:10 am – 7:32 pm Moon: 6:20 pm – 5:54 am

AM 2:11 – 4:11 PM 2:41 – 4:41

Sun: 7:19 am – 7:27 pm Moon: 10:40 am – 12:23 am

AM 8:56 – 10:56 PM 9:16 – 11:16

28

21

AM 9:16 – 11:16 PM 9:41 – 11:41

Full Moon

Sun: 7:09 am – 7:32 pm Moon 7:28 pm – 6:30 am

AM 3:11 – 5:11 PM 3:36 – 5:36

Sun: 7:17 am – 7:28 pm Moon: 11:37 am – 1:23 am

AM 9:31 – 11:31 PM 9:51 – 11:51

New Moon

Sun: 7:27 am – 7:22 pm Moon: 6:34 am – 6:36 pm

Daylight Savings Time Begins

AM 4:46 – 6:46 PM 5:11 – 7:11

Sun: 6:35 am – 6:18 pm Moon: 1:58 am – 12:06 pm

AM 10:41 – 12:41 PM 11:11 – 1:11

Sun: 7:26 am – 7:23 pm Moon: 7:02 am – 7:30 pm

7

8

1

29

22

15

MONDAY Sun: 6:43 am – 6:13 pm Moon: 7:45 pm – 7:01 am

14

AM 3:56 – 5:56 PM 4:21 – 6:21

Last Quarter

Sun: 6:36 am – 6:18 pm Moon: 1:05 am – 11:13 pm

SUNDAY

AM10:01 – 12:01 PM 9:41 – 11:41

Sun 7:08 am – 7:33 pm Moon 8:36 pm – 7:06 am

AM 4:11 – 6:11 PM 4:41 – 6:41

First Quarter

Sun: 7:16 am – 7:28 pm Moon: 12:39 pm – 2:20 am

AM 10:16 – 12:16 PM 10:41 – 12:41

Sun: 7:25am – 7:24 pm Moon: 7:30 am – 8:25 pm

AM 5:31 – 7:31 PM 5:56 – 7:56

Sun: 6:33 am – 6:19 pm Moon: 2:45 am – 1:02 pm

AM --PM 11:36 – 1:36

Sun: 6:42 am – 6:14 pm Moon: 8:52 p.m. – 7:37 am

9

2

30

23

16

TUESDAY

AM 11:01 – 1:01 PM ----

Sun: 7:06 am – 7:33 pm Moon: 9:43 pm – 7:45 am

AM 5:06 – 7:06 PM 5:36 – 7:36

Sun: 7:15 am – 7:29 pm Moon: 1:46 pm – 3:12 am

AM 11:06 – 1:06 PM ----

Sun: 7:24 am – 7:24 pm Moon: 8:00 am – 9:22 pm

AM 6:16 – 8:16 PM 6:41 – 8:41

Sun: 6:32 am – 6:20 pm Moon: 3:27 am – 1:58 pm

AM 12:06 – 2:06 PM 12:31 – 2:31

Sun: 6:40 am – 6:15 pm Moon: 9:59 pm – 8:14 am

31

24

17

10

3

AM 6:01 – 8:01 PM 6:26 – 8:26

Sun: 7:14 am – 7:30 pm Moon: 2:55 pm – 3:59 am

AM 11:31 – 1:31 PM 11:51 – 1:51

Sun: 7:22 am – 7:25 pm Moon: 8:32 am – 10:21 pm

AM 7:01 – 9:01 PM 7:21 – 9:21

Sun: 6:31 am – 6:20 pm Moon: 4:03 am – 2:54 pm

AM 1:01 – 3:01 PM 1:26 – 3:26

Sun: 6:39 am – 6:15 pm Moon: 11:04 pm – 8:53 am

26

19

6

AM 7:41 – 9:41 PM 8:06 – 10:06

Sun: 7:11 am – 7:31 pm Moon: 5:12 pm – 5:18 am

AM 1:16 – 3:16 PM 1:41 – 3:41

Sun: 7:20 am – 7:26 pm Moon: 9:51 am – None

AM 8:21 – 10:21 PM 8:41 – 10:41

Sun: 6:29 am – 6:22 pm Moon: 5:06 am – 4:42 pm

AM 2:56 – 4:56 PM 3:26 – 5:26

27

20

13

SATURDAY Sun: 6:37 am – 6:17 pm Moon: 12:06 am – 10:22 am

AM/PM = Best Fishing Times

AM 6:51 – 8:51 PM 7:16 – 9:16

Sun: 7:13 am – 7:30 pm Moon: 4:04 pm – 4:40 am

AM 12:21 – 2:21 PM 12:46 – 2:46

Sun: 7:21 am – 7:26 pm Moon: 9:09 am – 11:22 pm

AM 7:41 – 9:41 PM 8:01 – 10:01

Sun: 6:30 am – 6:21 pm Moon: 4:03 am – 3:48 pm

AM 2:01 – 4:01 PM 12:31 – 2:31

5

12

FRIDAY Sun: 6:38 am – 6:16 pm Moon: None – 9:35 am

= Best Fishing Days

25

18

11

4

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

March 2010 Outdoor Calendar

21 • Lakecaster • March 2010

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 22

2nd annual Take a Soldier Fishing event scheduled for March 26-28 Jackson Hill Park and Marina to host the weekend outing To all of you, We would like to thank those who supported our first annual “Take a Soldier Fishing” event held last spring. The event was a great success because of what you and the other sponsors, boaters and community members who contributed to give our soldiers a peaceful and funTo help make our 2010 event a sucfilled weekend. We are very happy to announce the cess, we are looking for donations. 2010 “Take a Soldier Fishing” weekend The projected cost for 40 soldiers and to be held March 26–28 at Jackson Hill Park and Marina.

soldier-focused weekend. We have enclosed the agenda for you. We will have a more casual weigh-in procedure to give the soldiers and boaters time to do what they came for — to fish and relax. We also have opened this year’s event to families and will have some special activities for them. We know that transportation is a problem with these events, and no-shows have been high at many of the events. We have hopefully corrected these problems by providing bus transportation from Fort Hood. In addition, each soldier will be contacted to confirm their commitment, since some making a reservation several months in advance simply forget about it or allow other things to keep them from showing up.

Simple goal Our goal is simple: “to help our soldiers during their time of recovery by giving them access to the beauty and serenity of our home; beautiful Sam Rayburn Lake.” To help make our 2010 event a success, we are looking for donations. The projected cost for 40 soldiers and family members is $9,500 for the weekend. We have enclosed a projected budget for your review and sponsor list we have acquired to date.

Key areas We need your help in three key areas — donations, boaters and promotion. First, we have enclosed last year’s sponsor list and would like to see if they would consider donating again this year. Since some of you helped with this last year, we may not have contact information for them. Second, if any of you can help encourage boaters to volunteer, have them call me or stop by the marina. We would like to get as many local boaters as we can and expect to need pontoon boats for perch jerkin’ or river rides. Third, please pass this information along to anyone you think would be willing to help promote our event. God bless you, our military men and women, and God bless America.

family members is $9,500 for the weekend. We have enclosed a projected budget for your review and sponsor list we have acquired to date.

Lessons learned We have learned from our first year’s event and by researching the experience of other similar events. This has helped us make some changes to our agenda that reflect what we believe is a more

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By Jim Binns

It’s always great to work with nice people. I recently had the pleasure of visiting with Terri Ward, the new owner of Fin & Feather Resort, and we talked about some of the new and exciting things that are taking place at the resort. Terri is a multi-talented lady who has background in many areas that cannot help but make Fin & Feather Resort one of the showplaces of our state. She has been involved in other operations that include Tranquility Bay in Louisiana, a resort business at Lake Livingston, Auburn Chateau in Houston and a number of others, so she knows her stuff. Terri is very open-minded Christian lady who basically loves what she is doing. It is a breath of fresh air to listen to her talk about the changes she wants to do at Fin & Feather Resort that would not only benefit our community and help it continue to grow. According to Fin & Feather Resort manager Kim Hill, many of the immediate plans involve family activities, attracting conventions and bass tournaments, and the addition of a first-class restaurant that is now open for business. The size of the restaurant bar and grill area was doubled in a recent remodeling, and it looks absolutely great. The newly remodeled restaurant will seat 120 folks and in the near future a liquor license will

be in place so you can enjoy your favorite adult beverage with your meal. The restaurant will soon be changing from winter to summer hours, so be sure to call (409-579-2056) ahead to verify the hours the restaurant will be open. Fin & Feather Resort has no shortage of sleeping facilities. There are 30 motel rooms, 16 cabins and 17 RV stations, with more RV hook-up areas planed for the near future. And what a beautiful area it is. Majestic pine trees and beautiful Toledo Bend Lake make this a picturesque area that will fit any occasion. Add to this the flowering dogwoods, azaleas, bluebonnets and wisteria, and you have a spectacular display of Mother Nature’s handiwork. A fully equipped Convention Center that seats 300 can easily handle events such as the recent Professional Anglers Association Tournament, weddings or large family reunions. State-of-theart cooking facilities also are connected to the Convention Center. Want to play a game of pool? … Then check out the adjoining game room. And don’t worry about bringing all that “stuff” from home because the office/store has a fully stocked area with grocery and personal items, cold drinks, bait and most anything else you need. Bring your swimsuit during the warmer months, because the swimming pool and hot tub

will be the place to be. Twenty boat stalls are available for safe storage of your boat during your stay, and two boat ramps are available to make launching that boat quick and easy. If you need a good fishing guide, there are a number available such as pro angler Stephen Johnston, Mike Haimen and Bill Fondren, to help you catch those big bass or crappie. Toledo Bend is the South’s largest man-made lake with sparkling waters that provide 1,250 miles of shoreline, and lots of fish. In fact, some folks state that Toledo Bend is the bass fishing capital of the world. Future plans are to provide boat and bicycle rentals, possibly expand the parking area and do

whatever it takes to make Fin & Feather the No. 1 resort facility in our state. Another item we discussed was Fin & Feathers possible involvement in a future women’s professional fishing circuit. As most of you now know, the women’s professional fishing circuit was recently cancelled. Terri and I discussed the possibility of helping to form a new women’s circuit that could be available in the future. More about this issue as additional folks are contacted and plans are formulated. What a great idea to have a women’s professional fishing circuit based here at Toledo Bend Lake. So there you are, a brief look at what I consider to be one of the finest organizations in our community — Fin & Feather Resort. Drop by and

cial r i f f O e unk on l e r Sha g stati in hold cales S d e Certifi

The Best Pla ce To Stay For You r Sam Rayburn Adv enture, Call For Your Reservation s Today

Park & Marina

12183 Texas State Hwy 63 West Jasper TX. 75951 East of HWY 255 @ Exxon Station

FREE DRINK! Ask for details

409-489-9333

• Open fisherman’s hours • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner • Lodge available for private gourmet dinners and parties • New waterfront stage, weigh-in and festival area available for your tournament, company, club or benefit • Country Home Cooking and Catering CALL FOR ADDITIONAL SPECIALS AND AVAILABILITY

www.jacksonhill.us

936-872-9266 • Broaddus, Texas

23 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Fin & Feather Resort — A sparkling diamond in the Pineywoods

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 24

Sam Rayburn Tournament Schedule EVERY THURSDAY 5-8 PM - JACKPOT TOURNAMENT AT PUBLIC BOAT RAMP

DATE

SQUIRREL TAIL WORM & KRIET KREATURE

TOURNAMENT

LOCATION

MARCH 2010 6 BFL Cowboy 13 Bassmaster Weekend Series 13 Anglers Quest Saturday Series #3 13 Get Reel Bass Anglers (Club) 14 Anglers Quest Individual Series #3 20 Media Bass 20 Goodyear 20 TX Super Team Championship 26-28 Take A Soldier 27 Bass Champs 28 2 of Us APRIL 2010 3 Zavalla Project Celebration Team Tournament 3 Anglers Quest Saturday Series #4 10 Bass N Bucks 10 Get Reel Bass Anglers (Club) 10 Media Bass 11 ABA Distr. 53 16-18 McDonald’s Big Bass Splash 24 Bass Champs MAY 2010 1 Dr. Sheldon’s Totally Awesome Fishing Adv. 1 Anglers Quest Saturday Series #5 1 Little Cypress Lions Benefit Bass Tournament 1-2 Houston Plumbers 2 Anglers Quest Individual Series #4 8 Media Bass 8 Anglers Quest Individual Series #5 12 PAR Bass Club 14-15 Coburns Fish Fest 15 PAR Bass Club 15 CAST Couples 15 Benefit Tourn - Gary Frank Wilkerson 16 2 Of Us 22 Media Bass Super Team 22 Youth Fishing League 29 Media Super Team 29-30 ABA Distr. 53 - Championship JUNE 2010 5 Bass N Bucks 5 Anglers Quest Saturday Series #6

Twin Dikes Marina Umphrey Family Pavilion Mill Creek Park Cassells Boykin Mill Creek Park Jackson Hill Marina Jackson Hill Marina Umphrey Family Pavilion Jackson Hill Marina Umphrey Family Pavilion Mill Creek Park Monterrey Park Mill Creek Park Umphrey Family Pavilion Caney Creek Jackson Hill Marina Mill Creek Park Umphrey Family Pavilion Umphrey Family Pavilion Cassells Boykin Mill Creek Park Mill Creek Park Jackson Hill Marina Mill Creek Park Jackson Hill Marina Mill Creek Park Mill Creek Park Umphrey Family Pavilion Mill Creek Park Cassells Boykin Mill Creek Park Mill Creek Park Jackson Hill Marina Jackson Hill Marina Jackson Hill Marina Mill Creek Park Umphrey Family Pavilion Mill Creek Park

KNUPPS KORNER STORE LAKE SAM RAYBURN

ROJAS FIGHTING FROG

MOTEL • BAIT & TACKLE • BEER GROCERIES BOAT STORAGE • GUIDE SERVICE GAS • SANDWICHES

NEW OWNERS: Morty & Carole Knupp

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“For the best food in Jasper, I eat at the Lone Star Buffet!”

“Big Rich” Courville Southeast Texas Award-Winning Chef & Caterer

Homemade Southern Comfort Food, Fried Catfish and Chicken Fried Steak 7 Days a Week!

5915 STATE HWY. • HWY. 147 • ZAVALLA, TX 75980

HILTON’S GUIDE SERVICE LAKE SAM RAYBURN, TX

BASS ONLY! Hm #337-625-0576 Cell #337-936-9895

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Near Umphrey Pavilion

(409) 698-3002

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Electric outlet at each well-lighted space. Boat can be kept attached to vehicle when parked. Two miles east of Sam Rayburn Dam on Hwy. 255 near Twin Dikes Park. Two Queen size beds in each room. Restaurants and convenience stores nearby.

Lunch Every Day 11 - 2:30 Dinner Thurs., Fri., Sat. 5-8:30 Hwy. 96 N. • Jasper, Texas (4/10 of a mile past 190 intersection)

409-381-8688 www.lonestarbuffet.com

www.rayburncountry.com [email protected] • Home 936-897-3400 • Cell 979-220-0251

SAM RAYBURN LAKE FISHING REPORT

Lynn Atkinson, Licensed Professional Guide

Lake level information updated daily at www.lakecaster.com Lake levels as of 2/23/10 (164.21´)

can find to get a hit. There will be a lot of fish scattered over the grass flats and a lipless crankbait comes to mind here. Try working one over the grass edges, around the points and pockets.

Remember, if your bait hangs in the grass, you rip it free, then you get hung again, sometimes it’s one of the larger crappie. There are a lot of big fish that move up this time of year, so be ready. Remember these fish are in the spawn. Please practice catch-and-release so they can get back to their nest and finish what they started. They are the future of fishing for everyone. Sometimes there are a few large crappie in the grass. Remember, if your bait hangs in the grass, you rip it free,

then you get hung again, sometimes it’s one of the larger crappie. Before you rip it free again, put a little pressure on the rod and try to feel if anything is there. I have caught some great big crappie this time of year, and they’re good eating. If you need some help learning the lake or just want to get out and have a great time on the water, give me a call and we’ll get something set up for you. We do have a new pontoon that can handle up to eight anglers for fishing with family and friends. I want to thank my sponsors and many friends that have helped make this a great year. Stanley Jigs, American Rodsmiths, E2 Bait Company, El Grande Lures, Big D Outdoors and BassCat. Terry and Connie at Jackson Hill Park and Marina, Jerry and Glenda at Bass Strike Tackle, Knupps Corner Store and Larry at Tri lake Tackle, I would like to welcome WT Signs & Graphics, a new business here in the area. Wayne & Tammy Fagen are just getting started here in Zavalla. Good luck and God Bless.

Sam Rayburn & Toledo Bend [email protected] • Ph. 409-698-3491 • Cell 409-381-1397 • Sam Rayburn & Toledo Bend

Temperature (low to mid-50’s) For lake level updates and generation schedules, call 409-384-5716.

March and spawning bass go hand in hand around “Big Sam” most years. Things haven’t been normal around here for the first couple of months this year. Goofy weather and water temperature staying well below normal haven’t helped at all. Hopefully warm weather will kick the spawn into high gear and turn the fishing from “catching a few” to having an awesome time on the water. There should be a lot of male fish in the shallows working on nests. The females should start coming in as things warm up. There should be plenty of buck brush in the water for these bass to move back into for protection for their nest. These male bass are busy trying to clean up an area, hoping some big old female will come and join them. The female will hang back in deeper water until everything is just right before she moves up to do her thing. Then she’ll move back out and disappear. When you find these males in the shallows, lots of different baits will work. Senkos and soft plastics come to mind. Pitch them into any opening you

Bill Fondren, Tejas Guide Service Professional Guide — Licensed and Insured

Global warming my foot, it has been so cold that I saw some crows standing around a fire to keep themselves warm. The water temperature is really low for this time of year. The river is high and about 45 degrees. I can’t remember it being that cold this time of the year. It seems like every time we check the weather there is rain or a wintery mix in the forecast that really makes it hard on an “ole fishing guide.” On the other hand, the bass fishermen are catching a few pretty good fish, the tournament weights have been down but there have been some real nice fish brought in. I think if we get a little bit of warm weather we could see some real good sacks. The lake is full; I sure would like to see it stay that way for a while. There is a lot of new work going on around Rayburn Country. We really hope this will help bring some new people as well as corporate business to our part of the lake. Any time we get new stuff it will help, so when you come to the south end of the lake,

please take a look around there is really a lot going on. Now let’s fish! The bass have been deep; maybe with a warming trend they will move up to spawn. Please remember, don’t eat, or otherwise harm these big ole sow bass. They are the future of our bass fishing. Weigh them, take a picture and then put them back in the water. The big bass guys tell me they are catching fish in 25 to 35 feet of water on drop shot and jigs as well as a Carolina rig. Some are being caught on deep cranks as well. With the water warming, lipless crankbaits will be hot soon as well as the old standby, the Stanley spinner bait. When the bass get on the beds you might try the new Y-not or the ITS-A-BUG. Check them out at your local tackle store. The white bass are picking up speed now. They are a little late this year due to the cold weather, but March is really going to be fun. Folks, this is a real fun trip if you want to catch a lot of fish. We still have room, so give us a call.

The crappie are still deep and up the river. Won’t be long until they are on the grass and it will be on then. You know I hate to brag, but we really have a nice place up here on Tiger Creek. We have some great guides, good food and just a really good place to stay. Give us a call. On a more somber note, we lost a great lady as well as a top crappie guide and a dear friend last month. Momma Sue Duff left us, and I can speak for all who knew her, she will surely be missed! That’s about all from here for now. Please remember to be careful on the water. It’s cold and you wouldn’t last long if you fell in. And by all means please buy from our local merchants. We would like to thank everyone who comes by to see us and fishes our lake. Remember Ms. Ann is rolling along, The Stump is still stumping, Needmore Tackle store has Raymond, and check out the Black Sheep Saloon. Remember if we can be a help, just call.

25 • Lakecaster • March 2010

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27 • Lakecaster • March 2010

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27 • Lakecaster • March 2010

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Anglers Quest Rayburn Saturday Series No. 2, Feb. 6

Rusty Clark and Cory Rambo win By Bill and Barbara Long

Anglers Quest 2010 Sam Rayburn Saturday Series # 2 out of Mill Creek Park in Brookeland, TX, began this event with 92 teamed anglers showing up to fish for the $6,205 purse. This event was started after the playing of the National Anthem at 6:45 a.m. The weigh-in time was conducted at 3:15 p.m. This Rayburn Saturday Series, after all nine events, will provide the Team Anglers of the Year with free entries to all 2011 Rayburn Saturday Series events. The teams entering all nine Rayburn Saturday series events will automatically qualify for the two-day “Tournament of Champions” championship on Nov. 13-14, on Lake Palestine. A special highest point Top 10 group of teams will qualify to go to the “Tournament of Champions” with a minimum of six events entered. Anglers Quest “Tournament of Champions” will guarantee $35,000 to 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. Sam Rayburn water was in good shape and about 1¾ feet below normal pool level with water temps running 50-51 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather at takeoff was a calm 52 degrees with a warming to 63 degrees by weigh-in time. The fish catching was not good on Big Sam today as there were only four limits brought to the scales, for a total of 66 bass at 162.22 lbs., making the average bass brought to the scales today weigh 2.45 lbs. The team of Rusty Clark from Sam Rayburn, and Cory Rambo from Orange, TX, ran their Skeeter/ Yamaha bass rig to a mid-main lake areas to catch bass using Castaway Rods. They managed to catch five keepers to finish in 1st place with 19.10 lbs., and made them $2,000 for their day on the water. They also wanted to thank their sponsors Castaway and Golden Triangle Industries for their support. The team of Greg Crawford and Jesse Johnson from Huffman, TX, ran Greg’s BassCat/Mercury bass rig to the south-lake areas to finish in 2nd with their best five bass, caught on rattletraps around the grass, that tipped the scales at 12.66 lbs. They had a limit in the boat by 10 a.m. and then culled two more times throughout the day. Their day on the lake paid them back $1,000 for their efforts. Chris McCall from Jasper, and Pete Shivers from Kirbyville, TX, ran their bass rig to mid-main lake on a milk run to various places throughout the day to finish in 3rd place with a total of five bass at 11.96 lbs., fishing with rattletraps around scattered grass. They took home $800 for their day on the water. They would like to thank their sponsors, American Rodsmiths and Santone Lures for their support. The Tiremax team of Ricky Guy and Larry Cotten ran Ricky’s BassCat/Yamaha bass rig to mid-lake areas to probe the grass with traps and bring in five bass at 10.51 lbs. to garner 4th place and collect $600. Bubba Frazier and George Kimball brought three bass to the scales that weighed 10.01 lbs. to garner 5th place and take home $425. The last money at $160 and 9th place was gathered up by Kevin Wolford and Guy Peco with two bass at 7.37 lbs. caught throwing senkos in 15-foot water with grass. One of their bass was the Big Bass of the event at 5.91 lbs., and made them an additional $200. The entire results from this and all A/Q events put on by Anglers Quest can be viewed at www.anglers-quest.com. A/Q would like to give a special thanks to our sponsors who offer the incentive bonus dollars for the Anglers Quest Tournament Trail: Tiremax, Bass Guard Culling Systems, Bowden Marine, Santone Lures, ZZ Custom Lures, PAA Payday and the 2X Stratos Bonus. Please read the qualifications for these great incentives on our Anglers Quest website. Anglers Quest is now accepting credit cards. Call Mr. Bill or Barbara Long at 281-852-8842 for any information or entry. 2010 schedules and results for all Anglers Quest series events are now available online at www.anglers-quest.com. Anglers Quest suggest the use of these sponsors, products and services: American Rodsmiths, Antex

• Rusty Clark and Cory Rambo won 1st place with their five-fish limit of 19.10 lbs., which earned them $2,000.

• Team of Kevin Wolford and Guy Peco won the Big Bass honors. With their “beauty” that weighed 5.91 lbs., this added $200 to their winnings.

• Top places at the Anglers Quest 2010 Sam Rayburn Saturday Series # 2 out of Mill Creek.

Roofing, Automated Mailing Solutions, Bass Guard Culling Systems, Big State Fabrication, Bowden Marine Sales & Service, Custom Built Awards, Check-It Stik, City of Jasper, TX-Chamber, Don McGill Toyota of Katy, Double ZZ Custom Lures, El Dorado Jacks, Executive Security Integrators, FishingWorld.com, Gullo Yamaha Motorsports, Kickapoo Bait & Tackle, Lake Houston Marina, Lake Livingston Area Tourism Council, Lake Palestine Area Chamber/Tourism, Lone Star Buffet, Mill Creek Grocery, MSD Building Corp., Rayburn Country Resort, Royal Purple Synthetic Oil, Santone Lures, Stratos 2X Bonus, www. StyleTile.net, Sign Designs Now, Superior Paint Works Inc., The Stump Restaurant & Club, TIREMAX of North America and Vincent Turf Farms. God Bless & Good Fishing to All …

POWELL PARK MARINA

ON LAKE SAM RAYBURN RT. 1 • BOX 123/ BROADDUS, TX 75929 VISIT OUR WEB SITE/ SEE PICTURES OF OUR NEW CABINS www.powellpark.com STAN & LINDA LINDSEY

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Open year ‘round Bring the family, come by & visit and have a burger

E-MAIL: [email protected]

Keeping anglers informed by pro guide, Joe Joslin

Fishing is slowly improving as we and the fish recover from the coldest winter in recent memory. Even though we are entering early spring, cold fronts slow action down for a day or two, but it soon rebounds. The main challenge has been high winds, which takes many fishing options off the table plus adds a huge safety concern. Most of us who have fished Toledo and Rayburn for any amount of time have a major respect for these enormous bodies of water. They also present to us many safety challenges hence the safest and smartest approach is to not push the limits of yourself or your equipment. Whether your boat is built in Kilgore, Flippin or Nashville, it is no match for extreme high winds and waves on exposed sections of Toledo and Rayburn with 180,000(Toledo) and 130,000- (Rayburn) surface acres. If you get caught on one side of the lake in a storm or frontal high winds and feel you have to cross back on the open lake, please make sure you evaluate the situation and always come down on the side of caution. You don’t have to cross back as you can make a call and tell friends/family the situation and wait it out till winds subside or have someone bring your trailer to you.

Bilge system in Skeeter’s 21FX with the large white unit a 1,500 gallon per hour automatic, and the smaller red bilge on the left is an 800 gph manual unit. The two red units in foreground are pumps for livewells.

Seventy-five percent of boaters will not look back before they turn as they just assume there is no one anywhere near them … big mistake. This scenario is where serious accidents can and do happen. Look before turning! One of the most common and dangerous mistakes anglers/boaters make is sharp turns both left and right without looking to see if anyone is behind them and getting ready to pass. If you are going to pass someone, make sure they see you before you pass them unless you have plenty of room to avoid them in case they make a sudden change of direction. Always, ALWAYS be extremely cautious when following another boat and preparing to pass someone. Seventy-five percent of boaters will not look back before they turn as they just assume there is no one anywhere near them … big mistake. This scenario is where serious accidents can and do happen. Big on bilge pumps! Also, make sure your boat has two large capacity bilge pumps, one auto and one manual. Bilge pumps are cheap, and they can save your life. If you get a big wave in your boat, one pump is not enough to quickly get the water/weight out. If your boat is weighted down with water, the chance of getting another wave is highly increased and two large waves can sink you. Trust me, you need to get that water out of there in a hurry. Pardon me for being so blunt but it is not smart … yes dumb … to launch your boat without bilge pumps in working order. Make sure they are not clogged with paper/plastic worms. Check your bilge pumps on a regular basis. Stay pumped!! They can save your life! If your boat goes down in cold-water conditions, it will not matter if you have your life jacket on. With current water temperatures you will not live but a few minutes before hyperthermia lowers your body temperature to a point where life is not possible. Obviously, always have a life jacket on and buttoned as well as your engine safety stop lanyard (kill switch) working and attached to the driver.

This boater has an engine safety stop lanyard (kill switch) working and attached to the driver.

I still am amazed at how many people I see running down the lake from 40 to 75 mph with no life jacket. If you are in my boat, and we are moving, you will have a life jacket on. I do not want to be the one who tells your wife or family that you just drowned while we were fishing. I want to do everything in my power to minimize the possibilities of such an occurrence. Catch a lot of fish this month … March is one of my favorite times to fish. Oh yeah … please be safe! AUTHOR INFO: Joe Joslin is a syndicated outdoor columnist, tournament angler and pro guide on Toledo and Sam Rayburn. Contact him at 337-463-3848, or [email protected] or visit www.joejoslinoutdoors.com.

29 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Dangerous sport, this fishing

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 30

Horse Scorching I a

he From T

steak

936-328-2594

By Mike Atchley 936-328-2594 [email protected]

A big, thick, char-grilled T-bone or ribeye, a pile of hot garlic or blue cheese mashed potatoes, a hot buttered sourdough biscuit and an ice-cold Lone Star beer — that’s my idea of Texas cowboy cuisine. Lots of highly trained chefs wouldn’t be caught serving this kind of simple, old-fashioned food, but I get away with it because I’m not really a chef, I’m just a cowboy in the kitchen. I once had the privilege of having an editor of a food magazine eat at my wagon during a catering job. We served three meals a day for four days at a ranch’s cattle sale. This lady was from up North. She was shocked by all the red meat, butter, cheese and cream in my recipes and by the way we heaped things on a plate. Nobody eats like this in New York or Chicago, she stated. “Your menus are such a throwback it would seem new,” she told me. She was right; chuckwagon cooking really is a throwback. Steak and potatoes, brisket, pork chops, stew, sourdough biscuits, cobblers and bread puddings — these were all standards on Texas tables as well as chuckwagons. Everyone likes these foods — even the magazine lady cleaned her plate at every meal. That I really never set out to become a chef has turned out to be an advantage in some ways. All I ever wanted to be was a chuckwagon cook. I learned what I know about food from being in the kitchen of my grandmother, mother and aunt.

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What I know about chuckwagon cooking and Dutch ovens was learned from hanging around campfires with cowboy cooks. Scorching a steak over hot coals was their idea of gourmet cooking. The old dough punchers had a different way of thinking about cooking. They called black Southern cooking “soul food” because they never had all the ingredients they needed, so they always had to add a little bit of their soul to make up for what was missing. What they had was a lot of beef and simple staples like flour, potatoes, beans and cornmeal, plus whatever they could find along the trail. What they didn’t have was just about everything else. Western cooking evolved from this short list of ingredients. Granted, steak and potatoes are not on anybody’s health food hit parade, but that’s another part of tradition. Cowboys lived on beans and biscuits and other such health foods most of the week. When a cowboy went into town for dinner he was looking for a big, thick steak. If you eat a low-fat, high-fiber diet yourself most of the time, I’m sure you know the feeling. Steak isn’t for every meal. It’s a special event, a big treat. So while you’re eating one of these steaks, think of it as your reward for eating beans and biscuits all week. On the grill Remember, on the chuckwagon, the heat source is wood,

and most of our cooking comes from that — something grilled over a wood fire. That’s not just Texan; whether you’re in Tuscany or Argentina or whatever, it’s a traditional method of cooking. We use native woods — oak, hickory, pecan and mesquite — because it is native Texas wood. We cook with the coals, which means we take a pile of wood, burn it down to coals and then shovel it underneath the grill. What determines the method of cooking is the height of meat above the coals. If you’re cooking a steak you want it on a grill right above the coals, and I believe in cooking a steak with a little bit of flame, because you don’t want a gray steak. Keep it hot enough so it sears the outside of the steak, and gives good grill marks and a little char, which adds a tremendous amount of flavor. This really complements the flavor of your beef. Clean your grill with a wire brush and then, once it gets hot, oil it with a little vegetable oil or steak fat. Let your steaks reach room temperature before putting them on the fire; cold meats will really stick to a hot grill, but after cooking a bit will release some. So don’t feel like you have to tear it off as soon as it starts to stick. Use a pair of tongs to flip it because you don’t want to puncture it with a fork. We like to cut our steaks a good inch-and-a-half thick, so they average 16 ounces. Season the meat with steak seasoning

Chuckwagon continued on P. 31

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Hangover temperature It’s important to remember that all meat has a hangover or carryover temperature, and the bigger the cut the more hangover temperature. A steak doesn’t stop cooking as soon as you pull it off the grill; it retains a lot of heat and takes a little while to cool down. A steak that is an inch-and-a-half thick will cool down quickly, compared to a 15-pound roast. So you want to take it off a little before it’s really ready. A lot of people cook a piece of meat until it reaches the desired temperature, take it out and say, “everything’s fine,” and then cut into it a half an hour later and it’s well done. They think they overcooked it but they didn’t, they just didn’t, take the hangover temperature into account. Cuts of steak Ribeye – The ribeye is a steak with quite a bit of marbling. It’s really the same cut as the prime rib, only it’s cut into steaks and

It’s important to remember that all meat has a hangover or carryover temperature, and the bigger the cut the more hangover temperature. A steak doesn’t stop cooking as soon as you pull it off the grill; it retains a lot of heat and takes a little while to cool down. A steak that is an inch-and-a-half thick will cool down quickly, compared to a 15-pound roast. So you want to take it off a little before it’s really ready. grilled, instead of roasted and sliced. Filet — The filet is cut from the tenderloin and it is the leanest cut of meat. It’s a dainty steak, and also the tenderest. Strip — The strip is a good, lean cut, but you pay a price for that leanness, which is flavor. Sirloin — The sirloin is a larger cut of meat with wonderful flavor due, in part, to the bone in it. Porterhouse or T-Bone — A porterhouse is your classic cut of steak and it’s like having two steaks in one. There’s a bone running down the middle and on one side you have the strip and on the other side you have the filet. This steak needs to be cut at least 1½ inches thick. Beef Tenderloin 5 pound beef tenderloin Olive oil Steak rub or seasonings Preheat oven to 475 degrees. Brush meat with olive oil – completely coat with rub. Insert meat thermometer. Place in oven for 10 minutes at 475 degrees – lower oven to 425 degrees – continue cooking for 20–25 minutes or until thermometer reads 130

TToledo Bend Pro Shop

degrees for medium rare. Remove from oven. Let stand 10 minutes and slice. Remember the hangover time. Serves 12 to 16. Ribeye Steaks with Horseradish Sour Cream 4 ribeye steaks 2 Tbsp olive oil Steak rub 1½ cups Horseradish Sour Cream (recipe follows) Heat grill until hot – place steaks on grill and cook for 3½ minutes on each side for medium rare. Serve with Horseradish Sour Cream. Horseradish Sour Cream 1½ cups sour cream ¼ cup prepared horseradish Pinch of paprika kosher salt to taste Combine all ingredients and stir well. This is our way that we scorch a steak. Hope this helps you out. Don’t forget about the hangover time! Until next time……. Adios! •

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31 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Chuckwagon continued from P. 30 on both sides before grilling. It is not a big project, no need to marinate for hours, just rub them and put them on the fire. You need to turn a steak only once. Put it on a really hot fire and leave it alone for a couple of minutes. Then it’s just a question of how long to cook. On the trail, they might cook meat pretty well done so it would keep, but when you cook a good steak beyond medium you’re really jeopardizing the quality of the steak, because you cook the juices out and that’s where the flavor is, and you’re making it tougher. I personally like my steak medium rare. Honestly, most people over cook their steaks, and it’s a shame because they miss out on a wonderful steak and wonder why it’s tough and doesn’t have any flavor, or they blame the cut or they think they don’t know how to grill it.

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 32

Prescribed fire: Why are the woods being set on fire? By Robert Baker, TPWD

Many people driving along East Texas highways have seen portions of the woods that are on fire or recently burned. These were prescribed fires ignited intentionally as part of forest habitat management. These fires helped accomplish many goals including removing dangerous fuel build-ups, maintaining forest habitat in a suitable condition for wildlife, reducing competition for native plants and returning nutrients to the soil. First, I would like to define exactly what a prescribed fire is. A prescribed fire is a planned fire that is conducted under a strict set of conditions to achieve a certain goal such as site preparation for tree planting or to achieve a desired type of wildlife habitat. Some of the conditions monitored include temperature, fuel moisture, wind speed/direction, manpower, humidity and smoke-sensitive areas (roads, homes, business, pipelines, etc). If these conditions are not inside the range of acceptable levels, the burn does not occur. A forest fire is not a planned fire and occurs whenever the conditions are right for the habitat to burn and an ignition source is added. The ignition source can be man-made (match, cigarette, etc.) or of natural causes (lightning). These fires normally occur during the worst conditions (drought, high winds, etc.). This is not a good situation and usually results in large fires that require massive amounts of manpower and money to get under control. These have the potential to cause extensive damage to habitat and infrastructure (bridges, homes, businesses, etc.). Forest fires are going to happen as part of nature, but they don’t have to be the massive, highly destructive fires that make the 6 o’clock news. Prescribed fire can reduce the intensity of these natural fires by removing excess dead and highly combustible fuels. Areas with low fuel levels will not “carry” or support a fire and serve as a natural fire break or barrier to the wildfire. This is accomplished through the use of frequent low-intensity fires during times when the fire damage can be minimized or eliminated, and the fire behavior can be predictable and controllable. Fire is important for many of the native wildlife and plant species in East Texas. These species have developed strategies to deal with fire and thrive as a result. Plants and animals handle this situation differently and gain different benefits. Plants use fire to reduce competition, open areas to sunlight, remove old growth and promote new growth, among others. Animals use fire for creation of open areas for ease of travel, promoting grass growth for nesting cover, ease of food/prey location, and creation of snags (dead trees), to name a few. Without fire many of these species are not able to compete with other species or occur in restricted numbers. Fire helps to reduce plant competition in the area by removing plants that are not fire adapted and providing native plants a head start. Many plants that have been brought into the area for landscaping, agriculture or other reasons, have taken control of many areas and displaced our native plants. Many of these invaders are not able to survive in the presence of fire, and can be removed or controlled by prescribed fire. With this little bit of help the native plants are able to establish a foothold in the area, and hold their own against or out-compete the invaders. Fire is a key factor in the cycling of nutrients in forest habitats. Many nutrients are tied up in old or dead plant growth. Fire can take this nonproductive plant material and turn it into ash, which is high in potassium and phosphorous and easily absorbed back into the soil, where it can be used by plants for new plant growth. Prescribed fire is necessary for good forest health and to maintain high levels of plant and wildlife diversity. Fire serves to create an environment where plants and animals can thrive. When it is done under conditions specific to meeting a goal, it can be one of the most useful tools available to the land manager. So don’t be alarmed when you see smoke rising from the woods; it is just a forest manager trying to help the land become more productive. For more information contact your local natural resource professional. •

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33 • Lakecaster • March 2010

COWBOY CATERING

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 34

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In March, the bass will be moving to the beds, will be on the beds and will be moving back off the beds. On the north end of the lake, a number of variables and factors will determine the pattern and lures to use. If the lake is at or close to high pool, concentrate on flipping and pitching the flooded buck brush with jigs, tubes, craw-worms and various plastics. Work the shallow flats and backs of the feeder creeks with spinner baits, stick baits,

traps, shallow-diving crank baits, top-water plugs, soft plastics and finesse plastics. Also work the points and bends of the creeks as the bass move in and out of the spawning areas. The more cover and structure you can find, the better. If we receive a lot of rain, the north end will muddy up pretty quickly, and the fish usually will be holding tight to cover and the bite will be slow. Red colors work well in muddy to stained water, and you will need to fish slowly. March also is one of the best months for catching white bass (Sandies) and yellow bass (Bar fish) as they move into the river proper

above Circle Drive all the way to Longview, if there is enough water in the river. Slab spoons, Road Runners, chrome Traps, shallow-diving crank baits, tail spinners and live crawfish will fill a cooler of fish in short order when located. If the river is high, work the flooded sloughs. If the river is low, work the sandbars and the eddies along the main river sandbars. If the river is falling and water is flowing from the flooded sloughs, work the mouth of the cuts flowing into the river. The Crappie will be moving into the creeks heading toward the shallow spawning areas and moving onto their beds. Jigs, shiners, and beetle spins can all be productive.

Mid Toledo Report

Darrell Lyons • DW’s Guide Service for Rayburn & Toledo 409-625-4585 • [email protected] • www.toledo-bend.net/guide

BASS: Excellent. Both pre-spawn and spawning fish being caught. Prespawn fish being caught in 8-15 feet of water on crawfish-colored crank baits and Carolina rigged E2 baits, 6-inch curl tail lizards in green-pumpkin seed with dipped tail (in red) and watermelon red. Spawning or shallow fish being caught on white and chartreuse spin-ripper spoons and black-chrome rogues when the bite slows, go to a watermelon/red or watermelon/gold Senko in

1-4 feet of water. When site fishing try a recoil rig with a white lizard. During the full moon at the end of the month should be the most productive. Don’t forget to spray all your baits with Kick N Bass. BREAM: Good. Over brush piles in 12-16 feet of water on worms and Berkley power maggots. Near the end of the month look for bream to start moving toward shallower waters. CRAPPIE: Good. Being caught in 2-8 feet of water toward the backs of creeks on orange beetle spins and black/chartreuse or white/blue tubes rigged on a 1⁄16-oz. jig head fished under a slip cork.

CATFISH: Excellent. In 2-4 feet of water toward the backs of creeks and flats. Being caught on cut liver and prepared wiener baits. WHITE BASS: Excellent! The run is in full swing in upper river, being caught on beetle spins and 1/4-oz. red ripper spoons in pink and white colors. On slow days use live crawfish. And if you want to try something different, how about catching white bass on a fly rod? Book a trip now!! Sponsored by: Temple Fork Outfitters, Fins line, Nemire Lures, E2 Bait Co. and Secret Weapon.

South Toledo Report

Joe Joslin, Professional Guide • 30 years experience on Toledo Bend Ph. 337-463-3838 or 409-565-1288 • [email protected]

Hello, Angler. March is finally here and everyone I know has had enough cold weather … enough already! If I had any leanings at all toward global warming theories, I’m afraid those left with the feeling I once had in my toes. However, spring 2010 is here, and birds are starting to sing more, the fish are hitting better, my heating bill is finally going down, my wife still loves me and I have a new Skeeter 21FX and Yamaha 250 SHO. For fishing this month, my suggestions include Stanley’s 3⁄8-ounce Vibrashaft spinnerbait with double willowleaf blades and a combination white/chartreuse skirt as well as Bill Lewis’ Rat-L-Trap in Toledo Gold, Red Shad, White Crawfish and Silver/Blue Back. Work both the spinnerbaits and traps along the edge as well as across the top of submerged grass on 2- to

10-foot depths. Berkley’s Frenzy Mid-Divers and Deep Little Ns are also catching bass along the outside edge of grass in 8-14 feet. A Carolina or Texas rigged Berkley Power Lizard is a go-to pattern/presentation for spring bass on The Bend. If I had to have only one bait and one presentation it would probably be a Carolina rigged lizard. This year has also been a super year for jigs, as anglers have been catching quality bass both on deep brush (15-25 feet) as well as fishing them (jigs) in the edge of grass. For deep-jig fishing, the new football-style jigs have gained strong angler usage. Two of the top football jigs are Berkley’s Gripper Series as well as Stanley Lure’s Bugeye Series. Also, Stanley’s new Itzabug (4-inch) has been awesome fished Texas or Carolina rig. By the end of this month, depending on weather, as water temperatures rise to mid-60s, top-water presentations such as weightless worms (Senkos/Berkley Sinking Minnows),

plastic frogs (Ribbits) and your favorite topwater bait also will be very successful as well as a blast for anglers. Spring on The Bend is a special place and a huge blessing to experience. If you are too busy to go fishing, then you are just too busy. See ya on the water! Crappie are also moving shallow and are in ditches and deep points leading into spawning areas. Some are moving all the way back into the creeks after two to three days of warm weather. Road Runners on 6-8 lb. test Berkley Fluorocarbon and spinning tackle are the way to go. Make sure your drag is set properly, as bass, catfish and drum love that Road Runner. AUTHOR INFO: Joe Joslin is a syndicated outdoor columnist, tournament angler and pro guide on Toledo and Sam Rayburn. Contact him at 337-463-3848, or [email protected] and www.joejoslinoutdoors. com.

35 • Lakecaster • March 2010

North Toledo Report

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 36

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Open: 9-4, Tues.-Fri. • 9-12, Sat. 318-565-9540 • 888-565-9540

Patroon

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Hawthorne !

T S 87

Texas Harborlight Resort Campground & Marina

Prettiest campground on Toledo Hotel • RV Spots • Store Fantastic Waterfront Cabins Gas on Water & Highway!

409-787-3212 www.harborlightmarina.com

San Augustine £ ¤ S T

Sabine Tire

96

147

Alignments - Brakes - Oil Changes NEW & USED TIRES -

Custom Wheels

Fords Corner

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Email [email protected] [email protected] OrOr Email

T S 103

Rebecca !

HUXLEY BAY MARINA on Toledo Bend Lake

CCERTIFIED ERTIFIEDDSSCALES CALES FORRLAKE LAKEERRECORDS ECORDS FOR Visit our Visit webpage webpage www.huxleybay.net

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T S 184

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Stricklan Crossing

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Plainview

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Pineland

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McElroy

96

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1.25

2.5

5

7.5 Brookeland

Mile 10

Data for boat launches provided by SRA state of LA and SR Base map layers from various sources Map produced by SRA of TX !

51

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175

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T S

84

Stanley

Double-Wide & Single-Wide Homes

481

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346

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Hunter

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T S

Choose from Inventory or Custom Order Top Quality Brand Names At Competitive Prices See Randy Sandel or Diane Anthony

171

539

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Pelican

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T S 191

Converse T S

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Converse ! 174

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Mitchell

Spring Ridge

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Huxley

175

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T S 483

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T S 121 8

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120

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East Hamilton

T S 191

The Fisherman’s Galley

T S

171

14934 Texas Hwy., Many, LA 71449 Located On Hwy. 6

San Miguel

Many

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121 5

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Cypress Bend Park

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191

Indian Mounds Toro

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Hemphill, TX

Alpine

Located in Hemphill off Hwy 3121 on FM 242 @ End of the Road Esto

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Zwolle

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Vinyl Skirting • Anchors Complete Repairs & Renovation Mobile Home Roof Covers Installed Metal Carports Sold & Installed RV & Mobile Home Parts

3704 Texas Hwy., Many, LA 4 Miles West of Many

Noble

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T S 392

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T S 111

Toledo Bend / Six Mile Loop (409) 579-9898 Hemphill, Texas [email protected] toledo-bend.net/sixmile After Hours: (409) 579-3193

37 • Lakecaster • March 2010

T S

Toledo Bend S Reservior T T Launches S Public Boat

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 38

DW’s GUIDE SERVICE TOLEDO BEND • SAM RAYBURN

BASS • BREAM • CRAPPIE • STRIPER PHOTOGRAPHY • SIGHTSEEING TAKE A KID FISHING & REMEMBER .... IF IT TUGS ON YOUR LINE “SET THE HOOK!!!”

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Jasper Lake Sam Rayburn Chamber of Commerce Banquet

91st annual chairman’s banquet held at Wesley Center in Jasper By Sharon Kerr

The 91st annual Chairman’s Banquet for the Jasper Lake Sam Rayburn Chamber of Commerce opened to a packed house on Friday, Jan. 29. Angel San Juan and his Channel 4 news crew surprised guests by showing up to film the chamber banquet as a shining example of a small city succeeding in a sagging economy. Legislators Senator Robert Nichols and Representative Wayne Christian also showed up to honor area leaders and businesses who received awards for their contributions to that growth. Jasper Mayor Mike Lout, who won last year’s Citizen of the Year award, drew chuckles when he said, “You think they were scraping the bottom of the barrel when they named me? Wait’ll I lay this one on you.” He then named Bob Sealy as the new recipient of the Citizen of the Year award for creating the McDonald’s Big Bass Splash, the largest fishing tournament in the world, and a business that brings millions to the local economy every year. Keynote speaker was Alan McGraw, mayor of Round Rock, which was recently named the second fastest-growing city (after New Orleans) in the country. Little did McGraw know the real reason he was asked to address the chamber banquet was so he could be awarded the Hometown Hero award, which is given each year to someone whose roots are in Jasper but who has gone on to achieve success in the world. He is the son of Bill and Catherine McGraw, who still reside in Jasper. He received his award from last year’s winner, Vincent B. Adams; the pair attended Jasper High School in the 1980s. The big hit of the evening was The Hope Family, a group of merry-making clowns founded by staff and volunteers of Lakes Area Hospice. The clowns lighten the spirits of folks in local nursing homes and also perform for schools and clubs to help people understand the benefits of hospice care. LAH compliance officer Paula Moore knew that LAH director Jeanette Coffield would be receiving the small business of the year award and tried to convince her not to dress up as one of the clowns, but Coffield would not think of missing a chance to dance in her oversized shoes. Besides, Coffield thought that her longtime associate was the one receiving an award. Moore was surprised and speechless when her name was called as Embassy Envoy of the Year for her work promoting the chamber. Coffield’s son also was in on the conspiracy and brought his band from Shreveport to provide entertainment for the evening. Professor Pork Chop and the Dirty Dishes may be engaged for an encore performance if KJAS’s Debbie Foster can work out the details for the Independence Day celebration this July. Last year’s Young Person of the Year Amber Stroman Lynch named this year’s winner Michael Sarver of “American Idol” fame. Sarver thanked the chamber by telephone from a Nashville recording studio. Daniel Havert, who does the animated Christmas light show on Live Oak, received the Newcomer of the Year award from artists Bill and Carol Wise. Milam Gallery owners Ken and Marsha Nabors presented the Chamber Member of the Year award to Christus Jasper Memorial Hospital; Debra Wigand and Mark Durand accepted the award. John Bryan, chamber chairman for 2009, received recognition for his service from the U.S. House of Representatives in a certifi cate certificate presented by a representative from U.S. ConPHOTO BY SHARON AND CHARLES KERR gressman Kevin Brady’s office. Marcus Dickerson is the incoming president for 2010. Liz Street continues to serve as Last year’s Citizen of the Year, Jasper Mayor Mike the chamber’s executive director and Mary Lout, hands Bob Sealy the Citizen of the Year award Ann McCoy as membership chair. • for creating the McDonald’s Big Bass Splash.

Shamrock Cake

White or yellow cake mix One package of pistachio pudding Green food coloring 3 or 4 mini-heart-shape pans (whether you want a 3- or 4-leaf clover) One rectangle mini-loaf pan White frosting

Prepare cake mix according to directions. Add pudding and several drops of green food coloring. Grease heart-shape cake pans with shortening. Dust the bottom of the pans with flour, shaking all over until evenly coated. Pour batter into each pan. Bake according to directions and allow to cool. When cakes have cooled, shape 3 hearts into the shape of the shamrock on a serving dish. Add the mini-loaf pan as the stem. Prepare frosting by adding green food coloring to

white frosting. For a minty flavor you can add 1⁄8 teaspoon peppermint extract to the frosting. Frost your shamrocks and enjoy your St. Patrick’s Day recipe.

¼ teaspoon peppermint extract 4 drops green food coloring ½ cup mini semisweet chocolate chips In a saucepan, combine eggs, milk, sugar and salt. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture reaches 160 degrees (with candy thermometer) and coats a metal spoon. Cool to room temp. Stir in cream, vanilla, peppermint extract and food coloring if desired. Chill for two hours. Stir in chocolate chips. Fill ice cream freezer cylinder 2⁄3 full; freeze according to directions. •

Leprechaun Dessert

½ gallon of mint chocolate chip ice cream Hershey’s syrup Oreo cookies or chocolatesandwich cookies

Soften ice creamby leaving out for a few minutes. In 9-by-12 cake pan, crumble Oreo cookies over bottom. Spoon ice cream on top. Arrange Oreo cookies along side of pan. Drizzle lines with chocolate syrup on top and refreeze.

Some St. Pat’s Wisdom Why should you never iron a four-leaf clover? You don’t want to press your luck. — Daryl Stout

Mint Ice Cream

St. Patrick’s Day is an enchanted time — a day to begin transforming winter’s dreams into summer’s magic.

3 eggs, lightly beaten 1¾ cup milk ¾ cup sugar pinch of salt 1¾ cup whipping cream 1 teaspoon vanilla

East Texas Guns ‘‘Pistols, Long Guns and Ammo’’ ‘‘The friendliest gun store in East Texas’’ www.easttexasguns.com John and Jalane Andrews - Owners

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American Owned & Operated – Ronny & Sharon Miller

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~

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Friday Night Crops 1st & 3rd Fridays of Each Month 6 p.m. to Midnight

Enjoy the day in Historic Downtown Hemphill, Texas ~ Come join the fun!

39 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Be sweet to the green on St. Patrick’s Day

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 40

Warming water temperatures trigger sport-fish spawn By Todd Driscoll, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Sabine Property Shoppe 12235 Texas Highway Many, Louisiana 71449 Located at Toledo Town

If You are Buying or Selling Property on Toledo Bend Lake GIVE ME A CALL!

Bubba Werner Registered Agent C (318) 554-8927 H (318) 645-6113 O (318) 256-0775

[email protected]

Although air and water temperatures still are relatively cool, longer days and increasing air temperatures are slowly warming area lakes. Increasing lake temperatures begin to stimulate natural spawning instincts of many area sport fish. In preparation for the upcoming spawning season, most sport fish undergo increasing levels of activity. When one mentions increased fish activity, anglers are never very far behind. Those that pay attention to spawning requirements of targeted species can better their springtime fishing success. There are several fish reproduction characteristics common to many fish. For fish that spawn in shallow water, which include crappies, black bass, sunfish and catfish, the males of the particular species are the more devoted parents. They usually construct some sort of nest, fan the eggs to provide oxygen and reduce siltation, and guard and protect the fry (larval fish) after hatching. Open-water spawners, which include white bass, do not construct nests and provide no protection for the eggs or fry. Regardless of the species, as a rule less than 5 percent of fry will survive their first year. Therefore, the females of most species produce extremely high numbers of eggs to combat the high-mortality rate. For a particular species, age of sexual maturity varies and depends on growth rates and population densities. Given these generalities, let’s examine the specific spawning requirements of several of the popular sport fish of the area. One of the earliest spawners in the area is the white bass. When the water temperatures approach 53-55 degrees Fahrenheit (typically late-January and February), this species makes spawning runs up accessible rivers. The males migrate first, sometimes a month before the females. Often, spawning takes place at the surface as fish are observed splashing and rolling. Several males attend one female, and the eggs are scattered in midwater. On average, each female produces about 500,000 eggs. White bass eggs are adhesive and sink to the bottom. The eggs are not protected by either parent. Spawning in a given area usually takes place over a period of 5-10 days. Some white bass reach sexual maturity by age 1 and most by 2 years of age. In the spring, crappies (both black and white) start spawning when water temperatures reach 56 degrees F, and activities usually peak around

62 degree F (March-April). Nests are constructed by males near some form of cover (usually hydrilla in Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend) in shallow-protected areas absent of wave action. The depth of nests depends on water clarity; in stained and turbid water they will be relatively shallow. Females contain 10,000 to 160,000 eggs and spawn repeatedly in the nests of several males, which defend the nest until the fry dis-

perse. Most crappies mature at age 2 or 3. Largemouth bass may spawn when water temperatures range from 60 to 75 degrees F (Marchearly May), and peak time usually occurs during a full moon when water temperatures range from 65-70 degrees F. Nests are constructed by the males on firm substrate in shallow water in areas of no current or wave action. A male seeks out a ripe female and induces her to spawn through repeated physical contact. The spawning pair makes repeated passes over the nest, depositing eggs which sink and adhere to the bottom. Several females may spawn in the nest of a single male. Males devote considerable time to guarding the nest, sometimes for several weeks and do not feed during this time. Sexual maturity usually is reached within 2 to 3 years. A female may produce 2,000 to 145,000 eggs. Two sunfish species, which may be of interest to area anglers, are redear sunfish and bluegill. The redear sunfish spawn usually peaks around 68-70 degrees F (April-May), while bluegill starts later in the season and peak around 72-78 degrees F (May-June). Both species may spawn more than once each year. Colonies of nests, which are round depressions about twice the diameter of the constructing male, are found in shallow water in various substrates, though gravel is preferred. Females spawn in the nests of several males. The males guard the nest only until the eggs hatch. Both species sexually mature at ages 1 to 2, and each female produces 2,000-80,000 eggs. Blue catfish, channel catfish, and flathead catfish all require a shaded depression, cavity, or some form of shelter to construct a nest. Typically, undercut banks, hollow logs, barrels, or rodent burrows are selected and prepared by the male. All three species usually spawn from May-July, and blue catfish usually spawn first when water temperatures range from 70-77 degrees F. Channel catfish spawn when water temperatures range from 72-80 degrees F. Flathead catfish usually initiate spawning when temperatures reach 75 degrees F. Males of all three species guard the nest; age at sexual maturity usually ranges from 2 to 5 years. Each female may produce 2,000-100,000 eggs. Contact us with questions or concerns about area fisheries by phone 409-384-9572 or e-mail ([email protected]). Good luck and good fishing! •

Sunday, March 14 Spring forward for daylight saving time Set your clocks one hour ahead when you go to bed Saturday night, so you can be sure to make it to your Sunday commitments on time! If you don’t, you’ll be an hour early! Don’t forget to change the clock in your car and your watch, too. Most cell phone clocks will reset themselves. If yours doesn’t, turn the power off, then back on again. That should do it.

Species Bass, Largemouth Bass, Palmetto Bass, Spotted Bass, White Bass, Yellow Bluegill Bowfin Buffalo, Bigmouth Buffalo, Smallmouth Bullhead, Black Bullhead, Yellow Carp, Common Carp, Grass Catfish, Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Flathead Crappie, Black Crappie, White Drum, Freshwater Gar, Alligator Gar, Longnose Pickerel, Redfin Shad, Gizzard Shiner, Blacktail Shiner, Golden Sunfish, Longear Sunfish, Orangespotted Sunfish, Other Hybrid Sunfish, Redbreast Sunfish, Redear Sunfish, Spotted Warmouth

Wt. 16.80 11.58 5.50 3.25 1.24 0.75 10.13 65.00 84.00 1.46 2.51 27.00 84.00 83.50 12.32 84.06 2.15 2.94 6.20 244.50 41.00 0.55 0.24 0.04 0.07 0.30 .01 0.34 0.57 0.60 0.06 0.40

Date 5-31-97 4-06-05 2-14-87 3-16-96 4-19-07 4-28-08 10-23-95 8-02-05 8-17-05 2-17-07 5-27-97 4-18-04 5-08-08 1-15-01 6-13-05 3-17-03 5-01-07 3-28-95 3-24-07 8-04-05 6-01-02 4-06-09 6-02-06 5-07-06 5-07-06 6-04-02 6-05-06 6-17-06 4-10-05 3-05-06 6-09-07 3-28-08

All-Tackle Records for Toledo Bend

Species Bass, Largemouth Bass, Palmetto Bass, Spotted Bass, Striped Bass, White Bass, White x Yellow Bass, Yellow Bluegill Bowfin Buffalo, Bigmouth Buffalo, Smallmouth Carp, Common Carp, Grass Catfish, Blue Catfish, Channel Crappie, Black Crappie, White Drum, Freshwater Gar, Alligator Gar, Spotted Pickerel, Redfin Sunfish, Longear Sunfish, Redbreast Sunfish, Redear Warmouth

Wt. 15.32 15.81 3.40 33.22 4.25 0.22 1.66 0.86 19.00 75.00 84.76 26.81 53.50 84.00 7.94 4.00 2.88 31.50 181.00 8.00 0.66 0.33 0.50 0.80 1.09

Date 7-03-00 5-25-87 2-07-09 2-08-80 9-17-83 5-17-01 6-24-09 4-30-07 1-03-75 8-07-85 9-09-06 7-26-09 8-02-06 4-13-07 4-25-09 12-05-02 3-13-98 3-03-95 7-27-09 4-11-04 2-10-09 6-05-02 5-07-07 9-05-08 4-14-95

Junior Angler Records for Sam Rayburn

Species Bass, Largemouth Bass, Palmetto Bass, Spotted Bass, White Bluegill Catfish, Channel Crappie, Black Drum, Freshwater Gar, Alligator Sunfish, Longear Sunfish, Redbreast Warmouth

Wt. 11.57 2.95 1.12 2.18 0.71 1.63 2.12 0.89 192.00 0.10 0.45 0.40

Date 4-23-05 6-21-07 6-12-08 4-20-08 6-14-07 8-08-07 5-30-09 7-18-09 4-21-07 7-02-03 6-14-08 3-28-08

Junior Angler Records for Toledo Bend

Species Bass, Largemouth Bass, White Bass, Yellow Bluegill Buffalo, Smallmouth Carp, Common Cat sh, Blue Crappie, Black Crappie, White Sunfish, Redbreast

Wt. 11.48 2.24 0.82 0.85 49.84 23.87 10.62 1.94 2.02 0.50

Date 3-06-07 5-12-08 11-25-07 4-10-06 7-14-09 3-21-08 3-09-09 2-28-08 8-18-07 5-07-07

Angler Tommy Shelton John Olive Curt E. Smith Wesley Cargal Randall Bradfield Robert Biskamp Sr. Lewis Byers Keith Riehn Kevin LaForge Randall Bradfield Willis Francis Jr. Jim Welborn Scott Henslee Michael Crochet Gary Ritnour Donald Latham Ricky Ethridge Paul Burleson Randall Bradfield Keith Riehn Robbie Woods Douglas Wright Randall Bradfield Randall Bradfield Randall Bradfield Kenneth Thyssen Randall Bradfield Randall Bradfield Randall Bradfield Randall Bradfield Randall Bradfield Blane Morrow

Method Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Pole & Line Rod & Reel Bow & Arrow Bow & Arrow Rod & Reel Trotline Rod & Reel Bow & Arrow Trotline Trotline Trotline Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Bow & Arrow Bow & Arrow Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Fly Rod Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel

Angler Eric Weems Johnny Pritchett Larry Upshaw James Kent Jr. Danny Statler Billy Autery Carl Gantt Robert Kinberger George E. Lord Joe Walker Miles McDaniel Steven Sallee Tontie Pennock Thomas Allcorn Clint Walker Hazel Bolton Geneva Daniels Freddie Keel Michael Hughes Larry McDowell Jr. Bill Ritzell Kenneth Thyssen Dylan Lyons Robert Prejean William Tawney

Method Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Fly Rod Rod & Reel\ Rod & Reel Trotline Trotline Bow & Arrow Bow & Arrow Rod & Reel Trotline Rod & Reel Cane Pole Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Bow & Arrow Float Line Rod & Reel Fly Rod Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel

Angler Brandon Adams Nicholas Montano Susan Muncrief Hunter Muncrief Tyler Hutchison Hunter Muncrief Ross Brusenhan Hunter Muncrief Ariel Drewery Travis Ellington Hunter Muncrief Blane Morrow

Method Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel

Angler Dylan Lyons Dylan Lyons Dylan Lyons Kevin Johnson Heather Taylor Ben Rumery Ross Leavins Dylan Lyons Nicholas Hirsch Dylan Lyons

Method Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Bow & Arrow Bow & Arrow Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel Rod & Reel

Records are kept and provided by Texas Parks & Wildlife in a newly formed cooperative relationship with Louisiana Parks & Wildlife. These records may change over the next several months as this cooperative effort evolves. The Lakecaster will strive to keep the most updated information available in each publication.

Certified Scale Locations

SAM RAYBURN Jackson Hill Park Marina 936-872-9266 American Angler 936-872-3451 Powell Park 409-584-2624 Shirley Creek 936-854-2233 Sam Rayburn Marina 409-698-2696 Piney Point Store 409-698-2309 Tx Parks & Wildlife 409-384-9572 Brookeland/Sam Rayburn KOA 409-698-3422

TOLEDO BEND Lowe’s Creek Park 409-787-2600 Mid Lake Kampground 409-625-4611 Holly Park 409-625-4424 Pendleton Harbor Marina 409-625-4912 Pleasure Bend Store 409-579-2203 Toledo Tackle 318-256-5613 Fin & Feather Resort 409-579-2056 Bass Haven Resort 318-286-9239

41 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Current Lake Records

All-tackle records for Sam Rayburn

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 42

Don’t Miss the McDonald’s Big Bass Spash in Alabama Waterfront Tackle & Grill at Goose Pond Colony site of two-day event Sealy Outdoors invites you to make plans to come be a part of the annual McDonald’s Big Bass Splash on Lake Guntersville, March 20-21, at Waterfront Tackle & Grill at Goose Pond Colony. Come win your share of more than $155,000 in guaranteed cash and prizes. It will be two days of fishing, family and fun, with cash and prizes such as a Triton Bass Boat powered by Mercury Marine and equipped with Minn Kota trolling motor, Power Pole, Lowrance Electronics and Navionics. Eight places will be paid in cash each hour for the eight single-heaviest bass brought to the scales. Be the first person to weigh in a 3- or 4- exact weight bass each day and win $1,000. You also can win a new Triton Bass Boat in the elimination drawing, or a Stealth ATV in the open drawing to anglers and spectators 18 years of age and older. You also have a chance to win one of five $200 Academy Sports & Outdoors gift certificates in the early bird drawing. Early bird mail-in deadline is March 5. Don’t forget about the special “bonus” drawing — The

It will be two days of fishing, family and fun, with cash and prizes such as a Triton Bass Boat powered by Mercury Marine and equipped with Minn Kota trolling motor, Power Pole, Lowrance Electronics and Navionics.

recipient of the 2009 Big Splash $25,000 Giveaway! Children ages 12 and under may participate in the Little Anglers Division and win Academy gift cards, and ribbons for their winning catches of bass, perch, crappie or catfish. For more information, stop by your local Academy Sports & Outdoors store for a “Splash Times” official entry form, call 888-698-2591 or go online to www.sealyoutdoors.com. The McDonald’s Big Bass Splash events are the world’s largest amateur big bass fishing tournaments as featured on “National Geographic.” Proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House and select McDonald’s Children’s Charities. The Lake Guntersville McDonald’s Big Bass Splash is hosted by Greater Jackson County Chamber of Commerce in Scottsboro, AL.

Big Splash $10,000 Giveaway! For each 2010 Big Bass Splash event you enter from Feb. 16, to the early-bird deadline, you will receive one entry into the special bonus drawing. For complete details, please visit our Web site. Congratulations to Sandra Sumner of Guntersville, AL,

Sponsors Sponsors of the 2010 McDonald’s Big Bass Splash include Triton Boats, Mercury Marine, Academy Sports & Outdoors, Shimano, Lowrance, Minn Kota, Navionics, Power Pole, Weaver Motors of Kirbyville, TX; Texas Fish & Game, Stealth 4 x 4, T-H Marine and FishingWorld.com. •

ACTION INVESTMENTS & CONSTRUCTION ★ Any type of New Home ★ Barns ★ Garages ★ Sheds ★ Horse Stables We specialize in log siding homes that give you the look of a log home at a fraction of the cost

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We invite individuals or groups. Book your stay 409.381.1397

Te ja

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ervice

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Fishing Guide Service on: Sam Rayburn - Toledo Bend

Individual - Corporate Family Trips Specializing in Black Bass, White Bass & Crappie

409-698-3491 or Cell 409-381-1397 Sponsors: Stanley, Wedge Tail, G3 Boats, Yamaha, Skeeter Boats, Shakespeare, Pflueger, X-Tools, Rat-L-Trap, Cowboy Dodge

Lake Livingston, Sam Rayburn, Conroe, Houston Entry Fee - $155* Begins January

LAKE HOUSTON SERIES

Every Tuesday evening 6pm-9:15pm Team Entry - $90* Begins March 30

LAKE CONROE WEDNESDAY SERIES Every Wednesday evening 6pm-9:15pm Team Entry - $85* Begins March 31

SATURDAY SERIES Four Circuits:

Lake Livingston, Sam Rayburn, Conroe, Houston Team Entry - $155* Begins January

T-MATCH SERIES

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One match every 3 weeks until finished. Begins April 4. All events take place wherever teams choose. Double eliminations. One-Time Team Entry - $500

Top Teams will qualify to fish the

TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS

Nov 13-14 at Lake Palestine for a guaranteed purse - 1st $20,000 - 2nd $10,000 - 3rd $5,000 *Add $10 for credit card payments

For more information & full schedules

www.Anglers-Quest.com

281-852-8842

Thanks & God Bless—Mr. Bill & Barbara Long

43 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Tiger Creek Lodge

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 44

R

Guide Ser N m u l vic ee Come join me for a fun and enjoyable fishing trip on legendary Lake Sam Rayburn for Bass or Crappie. Checkout the latest in Sonar Technology with New Lowrance HDS 10 & New StructureScan Or The Humminbird 997 with Side Imaging Take The Bass Class on The Water Lynn Atkinson (979) 220-0251 www.rayburncounty.com [email protected]

R1-BASS Rod Repair

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YOU CAN MAIL YOUR REELS TO THE ADDRESS BELOW Please remember to provide us with your name, phone number and return address. List the problem you are having with your reels. We will call you with the cost of the repairs before making repairs.

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409-898-2277

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o Serve You Better 2 Locations t 323 E. Gibson

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715 S. Magnolia Woodville, TX 409-283-2246

Monday – Friday 9am-6pm • Saturday 10am-2pm

702 S. Wheeler, Jasper, TX 75951 409-384-3441 E-mail at [email protected]

Publisher: Jeff Reedy Managing Editor: Patty Lenderman Sales: John Condon • Patty Lenderman Tammy Vaughn • Gay Norton Production: Houston Chronicle

Contributing writers: Joe Joslin • Greg Crafts Jim Binns • Lynn Atkinson • Rober Baker Bill Fondren • Dan Ashe • Mike Atchley Darrell Lyons • Scott Jordan

THE LAKECASTER is published once monthly and is distributed throughout Lakes Sam Rayburn / Toledo Bend and surrounding areas, including Shreveport, Bossier City, Center, Dallas, Huxley, Shelbyville, Bronson, Milam, Hemphill, Burkeville, Leesville, Many, Zwolle, Converse, Lufkin, Newton, Kirbyville, Buna, Nacogdoches, San Augustine, Jasper, Woodville, Beaumont, Orange, Bridge City, Lake Charles, Kingwood, Texas City, League City, Houston and Humble. THE LAKECASTER is also distributed at Boat, Sport and Trade Shows. The opinions expressed by the writers are theirs and theirs alone, and do not necessarily represent the view of THE LAKECASTER.

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45 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Cedar Tree

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 46

Annual Economic Value of Tournament and Non-tournament Angling at Sam Rayburn Reservoir Funded By Jasper County Development District #1 Todd Driscoll, Jeremy Leitz, and Randy Myers, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Executive Summary Sam Rayburn Reservoir has consistently provided high quality angling opportunities for multiple fish species and is regarded as one of the premier fishing destinations in Texas. It is among the largest reservoirs in the southeast U.S. at 111,422 acres, and is located in a relatively rural area along the TexasLouisiana border. The cities of Jasper (population 7,276) and Lufkin, Texas (population 33,522) are located less than 0.5-hour drive from the reservoir and the Houston, Texas, metropolitan area is located 130 miles to the southwest. Unlike many central and west Texas reservoirs, Sam Rayburn has not experienced droughtinduced, low water levels, which have been shown to negatively affect fisheries resources. Demand for water in Texas is increasing to support the state’s rapidly growing human population, and inter-basin transfer of water from East Texas locations, including Sam Rayburn Reservoir, has been proposed to alleviate water deficits projected elsewhere (TWDB 2006). Water transfer from Sam Rayburn Reservoir, however, could yield a lower water level, which in turn would negatively impact the reservoir’s fisheries resource. Therefore, it is vital to determine the economic value of angling at individual reservoirs such as Sam Rayburn so that angling interests are appropriately considered when compared to municipal, industrial and agricultural water uses. Largemouth bass tournaments comprise a substantial component of the reservoir’s fishery. An estimated 52% of all Sam Rayburn Reservoir anglers participate in tournaments (Bohnsack and Ditton 1999). Tournaments at the reservoir vary greatly in magnitude, ranging from small local club type single-day events having less than 50 participants to highly-publicized multi-day events attracting thousands of anglers, of which some are from distant locations. Previous research identified that tournaments have not had a negative biological effect on the largemouth bass population at Sam Rayburn Reservoir (Driscoll et al. 2007). Angler expenditures for things such as lodging, food, fuel and tackle can generate substantial revenue for communities located near popular waters and help support angling-related businesses and jobs. The economic contribution of tournament anglers relative to non-tournament anglers at Sam Rayburn Reservoir is unknown, and the amount, type, and location of expenditures likely differ between the two angler types. Information describing these differences would be useful to local communities for identifying and prioritizing funds and activities to improve infrastructure and promote economic development associated with recreational angling. The Jasper County Development District #1 funded this study which was conducted by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. From November 2007 to October 2008, a census of tournaments and a creel survey were conducted, with Sam Rayburn Reservoir anglers completing questionnaires concerning their angling trips and expenditures. This data was used to determine 1) the total annual angling expenditures, recreational value, and economic impact of recreational angling, 2) the annual number of black bass tournaments and associated participants at Sam Rayburn Reservoir, and 3) the annual direct expenditures, recreational value, and economic impact of black bass tournaments. Expenditures were examined by location of expense (Jasper County, other 5 counties surrounding Sam Rayburn Reservoir, other counties in Texas, and out of state) and angler residence (local, non-local and out of state). A summary of results follows. Should you have questions concerning this study or to obtain a copy of the full report, please contact:

Todd Driscoll Texas Parks and Wildlife Department 289 Fish Hatchery Road Jasper, TX 75951 409-384-9572 [email protected] Summary of Study Results • The total economic value of the fishery was estimated at $47.1 million. • Angling expenditures totaled $32.3 million for all angler types. • Angling expenditures for only tournament anglers totaled $23.7 million which comprised 73% of all angler expenditures. The total economic value of tournament angling was $31.0 million. • Angling expenditures by tournament anglers resulted in $39 million in output to the state of Texas from direct, indirect and induced effects. These impacts include $12.8 million in labor income, $23.6 million of value added, and 486 full or part-time jobs. • Angling expenditures for non-tournament anglers totaled $8.6 million. The total economic value of non-tournament angling was $16.1 million. • Angling expenditures by non-tournament anglers resulted in $13 million in output to the state of Texas from direct, indirect and induced effects. These impacts include $4 million in labor income, $8 million of value added and 159 full or part-time jobs. • Annual angling days were 76,418 for tournament anglers and 119,856 for non-tournament anglers. • For tournament anglers, 53% of their angling days (40,508) were made specifically to prepare for tournament events scheduled to occur within 30 days (i.e., practice days). • A total of 405 tournament events were held with 25,396 total participants. Of these, 304 were conducted by “bass clubs” (< 50 participants), 82 by “lower open organizations” (> 50 participants with entry fee < $130), and 18 by “upper open organizations” (> 50 participants with entry fee > $130). • On average, “bass club” tournament anglers spent $120 and $86, “lower open” tournament anglers spent $165 and $69, and “upper open” tournament anglers spent $190 and $88 per tournament and practice day, respectively. On average, non-tournament anglers spent $68 per fishing day. • Of all tournaments, The Sealy Outdoors McDonald’s Big Bass Splash 3-day event had the most participants at 3,892 and accounted for the largest angling expenditure for a single event at $6.3 million. Total economic value of the event was estimated at $8.0 million. • Average overall expenditures per tournament event were $306,593 for “upper opens”, $109,419 for “lower opens”, and $9,409 for “bass clubs”. • Tournament anglers spent $12.3 million (52% of total) in Jasper County, $7.1 million (30%) in the other five counties surrounding the reservoir, $3.7 million (15%) elsewhere in Texas, and $0.6 million (2%) out-of-state. • Including direct, indirect, and induced effects expenditures by tournament anglers resulted in $16 million in output to Jasper County ($5 million in labor income, $9.5 million of value added, and 294 full or part-time jobs) and $10 Economic continued on P. 47 million in output to the five counties

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47 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Economic continued from P. 47 surrounding Sam Rayburn Reservoir (excluding Jasper County) ($3 million in labor income, $6 million of value added and 153 full or part-time jobs). • A total of 70% of tournament anglers were residents from outside the local six-county area (13% were out-of-state). These non-local tournament anglers accounted for 78% of the total tournamentrelated angling expenditures. • Tournament anglers spent $5.8 million for tournament entry fees, $5.2 million for automobile operation, and $3.9 million for boat operation. These were the three highest categorical expenses for tournament anglers, which accounted for 63% of all expenses incurred by tournament anglers. • Non-tournament anglers spent $4.1 million (48% of total) in Jasper County, $2.3 million (27%) in the other five counties surrounding the reservoir, $1.7 million (20%) elsewhere in Texas and $0.4 million (5%) out-of-state. •Including direct, indirect, and induced effects, expenditures by non-tournament anglers resulted in $5 million in output to Jasper County ($1.5 million in labor income, $3 million of value added, and 87 full or part-time jobs) and $3 million in output to the five counties surrounding Sam Rayburn Reservoir (excluding Jasper County) ($1 million in labor income, $1.9 million of value added, and 48 full or parttime jobs). • Of the non-tournament anglers, 45% resided in Texas, but outside the local area (Jasper and 5 other counties), 41% were local anglers, and 14% were out-of-state anglers. • Non-tournament anglers spent $2.3 million for automobile operation, $1.4 million for boat operation, and $1.1 million for lodging. These three categories represented 56% of all non-tournament angler expenses. Acknowledgements

Funding for this study was provided by the Jasper County Development District #1 (JCDD). Fred Barnett was the point of contact for JCDD and was instrumental to the success of this We are also grateful for the cooperation and participation of Get Reel Bass Anglers (Joe Murphy and Johnny McKee), Texas Forest Country Bass Circuit (John Salamone), Bass N Bucks (Dave and Tricia Concienne), Bass Champs (Jeff Welch), Sealy Outdoors McDonald’s Big Bass Splash (Bob and Nicole Sealy) and all Sam Rayburn Reservoir anglers who returned economic questionnaires. John Taylor provided assistance with consumer surplus analyses. Local TPWD staff (Dan Ashe, Mike Ratcliff, Joe Moorhead, and Ray Lenderman) assisted with over 7,000 individual mailings. Craig Bonds and John Dennis provided helpful reviews. Lakecaster editor Patty Lenderman provided tournament-related contacts and encouraged angler participation with this research. •

“Fishing” is genderless and peaks the interest of the very young to the very old. Whether just relaxing on the banks wetting a hook or competing against other anglers, people come from all over the world to enjoy Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend.

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March 2010 • Lakecaster • 48

BIG BASS contest update We are only a few very cold weeks into our winter BIG BASS contest, but Kelly Whitley has already weighed in three fish over 6 lbs. The contest runs until March 31. Anyone weighing in a double-digit fish will receive a free 2010 launch pass. The biggest fish turned in under 13 lbs. will receive a free replica mount. Fish over 13 lbs. qualify for Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Sharelunker program, and a replica mount is provided to the lucky angler by TP&W. All you need to do is bring your Rayburn-caught Large Mouth to Jackson Hill and weigh her in. If you catch a 13plus bass, Jackson Hill will certify it and complete the needed paperwork for the state fish hatchery in Athens. Jackson Hill is an official weigh-in and holding site for Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Sharelunker program. Note: The Texas Parks and Wildlife Sharelunker program extends to April 30. Click to http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/ spdest/visitorcenters/tffc/sharelunker/ for more information. •

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Kelly Whitley has already weighed in three fish over 6 lbs.

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New water body record for Jasper City Park Pond Do you remember the Jasper Trout Derby held at the City Park pond in January? When they stocked 1,800 rainbow trout? Guess what? There were a few great big ones in there! Calvin Little of Newton, Texas stopped by the pond for a little relaxation Feb. 16. He picked up some minnows on his way there, and caught several fish. Among them were two great big rainbow trout. Calvin was amazed at his catch, and being new to the area wasn’t sure exactly what he had caught. Someone who was also at the pond advised him to come to the Lakecaster office, where we were able to take pictures of his fine catch and suggested it may be a new water body record. With one simple phone call to the Texas Parks & Wildlife office, 409-384-9572, Dan Ashe confirmed that there had been no entries for Rainbow Trout from the City Park Pond, and that it would establish a new water body record. Ashe made the catch official, weighing 4.7 pounds and measuring 22 inches long. This catch is much larger than was seen at the Derby. “This year we put several large ones in the pond. Glad to see someone catch them!” •

Calvin Little of Newton, Texas caught this 4.7-pound 22-inch trout at Jasper City Park Pond in January and captured the water body record in the process.

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A0962

Lots 150, 151 Toledo Village Section 5 • Offered at $238,000

One of a kind with spectacular views! Beautiful waterfront setting for this comfortable lake front home. 3 bedrooms and 2 baths with fireplace and lots of windows to the lake. Come and sit on this awesome deck with a hot tub! This home is “move in” ready and offers a pier, floating dock, boathouse and large outbuilding.

A0948

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337-433-7019

Your own waterfront get-a-way! Affordable 2 bedroom and 1 bath comfortable mobile home on 2 Toledo Bend lots. Super nice, really neat, and partially furnished! Come sit and enjoy the covered porch. Includes a pier, dock, fish cleaning station, storage garage and much more! Better hurry on this one!

See our website for more listings

www.TexasToledoBendRealty.com

49 • Lakecaster • March 2010

Feature your goods or services in The Lakecaster! Just call 409-384-3441or e-mail [email protected] to find out more!

March 2010 • Lakecaster • 50

H T E LAK D N U O AR CLASSIFIEDS ES RENTALS

FISHERMAN’S HOUSE — New 1-bedroom in Westwood, Sam Rayburn. One block to boat ramp & swimming area. Covered parking, satellite TV. Completely furnished. No pets and no smoking in house. Call 409-384-7645 or 409-4892065 (July-10) TOLEDO BEND, LA — Green Acres Fishing Lodge and Bed & Breakfast. Located on San Miguel Bay, offering safe, secure, & private lodging on 6 acres of waterfront property for couples, families & small groups (bass clubs). Gated property with boat launch, covered parking, outside electricity, pool table, ping pong table and floating swimming dock. Call 318-6457444 www.GreenAcresFishingLodge.com (July-10) NEW FISHERMAN’S VILLAGE LODGE — Book now for 2010 tournaments. Located just 1 mile west of Pendleton Bridge on Toledo Bend. Close to 3 boat ramps. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, completely furnished including kitchen. Sleeps up to 12. (409) 787-3138 or (409) 698-7027 www.fishermansvillage.us (March-10) DAILY, WEEKEND, WEEKLY Rental on Sam Rayburn, South end near San Augustine Park area. Sleeps 4, maybe more. Nice, clean house. Satellite TV, water, lights. Call & make reservations! $80 daily, $525 weekly. (409) 584-9005 or [email protected] (Aug 10)

CABIN FOR RENT on Sam Rayburn across from Mill Creek boat ramp. 3/2 on four acres and right on the water. Fully furnished. Weekend and weekly rates. Ready to go! Call (337) 515-4098 (Apr 10) CEDAR CABIN FOR RENT – Weekends or vacation. Fishermen, hunters, birdwatchers or just get-a-way. 1 hour from Sam Rayburn – 45 min. from Toledo Bend, Burkeville area. Wooded, secluded, beautiful. Sleeps 5, porch on 4 sides, fireplace, TV w/DVD player (No satellite or channel reception). Easy in/out for boats/trailers. Firewood provided. (409) 565-4416 (March 10) THE FISH CAMP @ MILL CREEK, Sam Rayburn Lake – Located next to park. Older, but nice. Sleeps 6-8. Covered parking for 1 boat with electricity. Dish TV, fully furnished. Summer rate $70 per night. 409-698-2199 or 936-2757879 (Feb 11) NICE HOUSE ON LARGE LOT near Cypress Bend Park – Waterfront, 3 bedroom, 2½ baths, brick & wood floors, S/S appliances, icemaker, outdoor kitchen. $995 to $1,295 weekly or daily rates available. (337) 263-6181 (Aug 10)

FISH OR HUNT — 1 bedroom, 1 bath, carport, new metal roof, fresh paint on 3.17 acres surrounded by National Forest. 2 miles from East Hamilton boat ramp on Toledo Bend $45,000 (936) 368-2553 after 5:00pm (July-10) BRICK HOME ON ½ ACRE, Lakeview lot on Toledo Bend. Built in 2007. Granite countertops, 30x30 shop on slab. Paved drive. Extras. Call 936468-8408. Asking $225,000 (March-10) CAMP in Big Bass Marina area on Toledo Bend. 2 BR, 1 bath on 1 acre next to water. 10x40 covered porch plus 2 RV sights with full hook-ups. $65,000. Call 1-337-783-8281 or 1-337-581-1279 (Apr 10)

GUIDE SERVICE

COON’S GUIDE SERVICE on Toledo Bend. Specializing in Crappie and Bass. Fishing out of Cypress Bend. Just bring your fishing license, we’ll provide everything else. Fishing season is here – book early, let’s catch ‘em! With 2 pontoon boats, can have up to 4 trips daily. www.coonsguideservice.com call 318-3041066, 318-590-9881 or 318-7488408 (May 10) SERVICES

BOAT CARPET INSTALLED. No boat too large or too small. Also install bilge pumps, aerators, lights, locks, latches, etc. Call (318) 645-2644 or email Wallace [email protected]. Can pick up or deliver. (Apr-10)

Fill form out and mail-in

Mail-in Classifieds are $7.50 for 5 lines Use this form and mail to:

REAL ESTATE

WATERFRONT acreage for sale on Sam Rayburn. 2 cleared acres with water meter in the Concord Ridge edition. $140,000; 409-381-8484 or 409-781-0397 (July-10)

702 S. Wheeler, Jasper, TX 75951 409-384-3441

No call-in Classified ads accepted. Deadline is 15th of each month.

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51 • Lakecaster • March 2010

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