Trout Tips from Spring Creek Treasure -Temperature and Season

Trout Tips from Spring Creek Treasure

Water temperature dictates when trout will feed and it should dictate when the angler will fish.

Water has its greatest density at 38 to 39 degrees and trout seldom hit when the water temperature is below 40 degrees.

Frequently taking the water temperature tells you if it's rising or falling one degree.  Thus I take the water temperature at least once every hour.  If the temperature is slowly rising up to 63 degrees you will want to keep fishing.  However, if the water temperature drops one degree the trout usually quit feeding.  As you read further in the book you will understand the importance of this information.

Having kept thirty-four years of water temperature data I have concluded there are three significant water temperatures at which trout seem to feed best.  And, without fail the trout stream temperature will frequently range between those three significant temperatures during March, in Southwestern Wisconsin.  I have identified the three significant feeding periods as the 40 degree rise, the 45 degree rise, and the 49 degree rise.  What was most difficult was identifying why the feeding usually picked up at 40, 45, and 49 degrees.  It took more research and the application of science to figure that out.

108.  At 67 degrees trout quit feeding, therefore, you should move upstream to cooler water or quit fishing.

129.  The grasshopper is an excellent free bait for August and September fishing.  The fly angler should try a weighted Joe's Hopper.   

134.  During the last two months of the season fish the upper third of the trout stream.

135.  Use a nymph fly tied by John Bethke, the Pink Squirrel, in spring creeks.

141.  After the first leaves turn in late August brown trout become territorial and they will smash your lure even when not hungry.

143.  In late August the time of day to fish can change from early to late morning.  And in September it can change to the middle of the day.  

46.  The sun is highest in the sky from April 21 to August 21, and that is when you should fish early morning or when the sky is overcast.

48.  When approaching a pool with cover, where a big trout might be located, wade quietly like a deer on the shallow side of the stream.

49.  Fish the shadow areas of the stream when the sun hits the water.

57.  When the water temperature rises above 63 degrees trout start to shut down; and at 67 degrees they are usually dormant and refuse to hit an artificial.

62.  As the cold front approaches, when clouds appear and the air temperature is stable or rising, you can have excellent fishing.  

Crappie Fishing in Missouri

Crappie Fishing in Missouri

Crappie Killer by Blue Ribbon Lures

They're pretty much everywhere in Missouri

Crappie are common in most of Missouri's large reservoirs, rivers,
and streams, as well as many smaller public and private ponds.

When and how to catch them

Spring—fish the shallows

In spring when crappie are spawning in the shallows, anyone can cast a
minnow and bobber toward the bank and catch a ton of fish. Crappie may
spawn as early as mid-March in the southern part of the state and as
late as the end of May in northern Missouri. The spawn generally occurs
when water temperatures reach 55F. The depth at which crappie spawn
depends on water clarity. In stained or muddy water, they may spawn as
shallow as 1 or 2 feet. In exceptionally clear water, they may spawn as
deep as 20 feet or more.


During the spring spawning period, use a trolling motor to move
slowly and quietly close to the shoreline. Flip a small (1/32 to 1/16
ounce) jig into the shallow water along the shore. Move slowly and hit
every nook and cranny around rocks, woody debris and vegetation. Pea
gravel banks are also preferred spawning locations. Once you locate
crappie, stop and continue fishing that spot until the fish stop biting
or they’re not big enough to suit you. If a spring cold front sends
crappie out to deeper water, concentrate on steep banks. Crappie won't
be very far off the bank.


On waters that get high fishing pressure, try casting a tiny jig
right onto the bank, retrieving the bait with the rod tip straight in
the air, and erratically jerking the bait near cover on the bank. You
often get strikes right next to the boat after the crappie follow the
bait back.

Summer—move to deeper water or try night fishing

Post-spawn through September, crappie tend to stay in brush located
in 15 to 20 feet of water, about 10 or 15 feet down. Concentrate on
standing timber along creek channels and on brush piles out on the main
lake. Vertical jigging works well when fishing the brush.


Fishing around concrete bridge piers is a productive technique for
catching crappie in Missouri’s large reservoirs during summer. Focus on
piers in water at least 20 feet deep. Vertically jig a minnow next to
the pier beginning at a depth of about ten feet and slowly work deeper
until you locate fish. If you’re not successful in locating and catching
fish after several attempts, move to another pier.


Fish deeper brush near the thermocline (where the water suddenly gets
cooler with depth) during hot summer months with split shot, a light
wire hook and a small shiner or fathead minnow hung over the side of the
boat.


During the hot Missouri months of July and August, try night fishing
for crappie! Artificial lights such as floodlights on docks, street
lights and commercially available floating and submersible lights
attract insects and small baitfish that will in turn attract crappie.
Fish much as you would during the daylight hours with either minnows or
artificial baits, fishing at different depths until you locate fish.

Fall—try the docks

Crappie are generally very predictable and aggressive in October and
November. Docks are a prime location for fall crappie, where they can be
caught in the upper 10 feet of the water column.


Cast into the back of a boat slip or along the edges, letting the jig
sink for 2 or 3 seconds, and then retrieve slowly. Crappie will also
move into shallow water on warm days in the fall, where you can catch
them in the same brush piles they inhabit during the spawn.

Winter—enjoy some of the best fishing of the year

Unfortunately, many anglers stow away the boat and fishing tackle
before the first snow flies. Those who don’t can experience some of the
best fishing of the year and have their favorite lake all to themselves.


You can find crappie in deep water (20 to 40 feet) in the winter, but
they will move into shallower water during a string of warm days. The
key to catching crappie in the winter is to use a very slow retrieve. In
cold water, crappie will not chase a fast-moving lure like they will
during the warmer months.


In addition, winter crappie tend to congregate in large, dense
schools near structure instead of scattering in loose schools over a
large area. Casts to one side of a brush pile may yield nothing while
the other side may produce a fish on nearly every cast.

Tackle and technique

If you talk to a dozen crappie anglers, you will likely get a dozen
different opinions regarding the best way to catch them, the best jig
color, the best line to use, and so on. In reality, two anglers in the
same boat can be using two completely different techniques and baits,
and they will both be catching fish. The key is to not get stuck on any
one approach. Experiment until you find a technique that works for you. I usually begin with different colored tube jigs or the Crappie Killer.


Crappie are attracted to woody cover regardless of the time of year. A
good rule of thumb is to fish shallow during spring and fall, then fish
deep during summer and winter. However, a string of warm days in
January can send fish into water less than 5 feet deep, while a strong
cold front in April can send them to the depths for a few days. When
trying to locate crappie, target brush piles or other cover at a variety
of depths, and let the fish tell you what depth they prefer on a given
day.


When crappie are active, they will hit a bait presented in close
proximity to cover. When they are not so active, you may need to get
your bait down into the brush to be successful. The two most effective
ways to do this are vertical jigging and casting. A weedless jig works
best for these types of presentation.

Vertical jigging

To fish a bait vertically, simply drop it straight down into the
brush until it hits bottom. Then slowly reel up until you get a bite.
Note the depth at which you get a bite and concentrate on fishing at
that depth. Another productive method is to use a very small jigging
spoon. Fish vertically over deep brush and raise and lower your jigging
spoon 1-2 feet. Crappie will often hit the spoon on the fall while it is
fluttering. This is a good technique to use when you run out of minnows
or simply get tired of re-baiting your hook.

Casting

When fishing shallow brush or in very clear water, you may need to
back away from the brush and cast. Toss your bait past the brush and let
it sink to the bottom on a tight line. Slowly retrieve until you
contact the brush. When you feel your bait come over a limb, let it sink
again. Keep doing this until you clear the brush. By doing this, your
lure is actually penetrating down into brush instead of just skimming
along the outer edges.

Bobbers

These are not just for young or inexperienced anglers. There are days
when crappie will only pick up a jig or minnow that is hovering nearly
motionless. Again, you may need to experiment with the depth of your
bait to find the fish.

Trout Fishing Tips in Missouri

Trout Fishing

Trout Fishing

Want to catch more Missouri trout? Change your methods as the seasons and local conditions change. This page tells you how.

Basic Equipment

• A hand net to land a trout (which easily break the line when pulled out of the water)
• A stringer identified with your name and address
• Hemostats to remove swallowed hooks
• Waders or waterproof boots (remember that some parks allow wading
  while others do not. Make sure you know the regulation for your park.
  Also note the felt-soled wader ban under Related Information below.)
• A fishing vest to carry the essentials with you
• Polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and enable you to spot trout beneath the water’s surface
• Rod and reel. A basic spin-cast rod and reel will work fine, but
  other combinations can prove to be more effective. Ultra-light rods and
  spinning reels are more flexible and easier to feel a strike. Rods 6 to
  6½ feet long prove to be better for castability and make it easier to
  use a float. An ultra-light spinning reel is especially made for light
  line such as 4 pound test.

Rigging the Rod and Reel

Use a light leader, which makes the terminal end of your line less
visible to fish while allowing you to use heavier line on the reel. A
leader is a 2-foot section of 2-pound test (or lighter) line. Attach a
snap swivel to the original line on your reel. The leader will tie to
the snap swivel.


If using a hook, attach a split-shot about the size of a BB above the
snap swivel on the reel’s main line. Several different styles of hooks
can be used depending on the type of bait chosen. A treble hook (size
16-18) works well with most cheese and dough baits. A single hook sizes-
10-16 is the choice for salmon eggs. If using a lure or selected
artificial, simply tie the lure to the leader. Do not use a split shot
unless the water is high.

Knot Tying

1.  Run the line through eye of the hook, lure or swivel at least six
inches and fold to make two parallel lines. Bring the end of the line
back in a circle toward hook or lure.





2.  Make six turns with tag end around the double line and through
the circle. Hold double line at point where it passes through eye and
pull tag end to snug up turns.





3.  Now pull standing line to slide knot up against eye.





4.  Continue pulling until knot is tight. Trim tag end flush with
closest coil of knot. This is known as a Uni-knot and will not slip.

Flies lures and baits

The following classes of lures are authorized for use, except where
restricted. Montauk, Roaring River and Bennett Spring have divisions in
their spring branch called “zones.” Zones have specific restrictions on
flies, lures and baits. Each trout park will have a regulation pamphlet.
Rules and zones vary between parks. Refer to the pamphlet for zones,
maps and specific rules. Maramec Spring has no zone restrictions on
flies, lures and baits as defined in A, B, C, and D.


(A) Natural and scented baits—A natural fish food such as bait fish,
crayfish, frogs permitted as bait, grubs, insects, larvae, worms, salmon
eggs, cheese, corn and other food substances not containing any
ingredient to stupefy, injure or kill fish. Does not include flies or
artificial lures. Includes dough bait, putty or paste-type bait, any
substance designed to attract fish by taste or smell and any fly, lure
or bait containing or used with such substances.


(B) Soft plastic bait (unscented)—Synthetic eggs, synthetic worms, synthetic grubs and soft plastic lures.


(C) Artificial Lure—A lure constructed of any material excluding soft
plastic bait and natural and scented bait defined in (A) or (B) above.


(D) Fly—An artificial lure constructed on a single-point hook, using
any material except soft plastic bait and natural and scented bait as
defined in (A) or (B) above, that is tied, glued or otherwise
permanently attached.

Baits

Trout rely mainly on their sense of smell as well as sight to detect
food sources. For this reason, there is a variety of colored scented
baits available to catch trout. Common commercial brand brands include
Berkeley’s Power Bait and Zeke's. They both come in an assortment of
colors and utilize scent attractants. Velveeta cheese and bread are also
excellent choices. Hatchery-raised trout have fed on small brown
pellets for most of their lives. For this reason, locally made
dough-baits can prove exceptional for catching trout. This type of bait
is usually found in the park store.

Methods

Drift Fishing

This method can prove to be very effective in any condition. You can
cover a large area and present your bait to a number of trout. Start by
using a split shot approximately 12 to 24 inches from your hook. Use a
leader if fishing is slow. Adjust to water conditions accordingly
(larger split shot and longer leader for deeper fast moving water). Use a
small treble or salmon hook. If you use a treble hook , mold your bait
(Berkley’s Power Bait, Velveeta cheese, Zeke’s cheese, bread or locally
made dough bait) on the hook so that it is covered entirely. Use just
enough bait to conceal hook and no more. If you use a salmon hook simply
hook the salmon egg through the middle. Cast upstream from the fish (if
visible) and keep pace with your bait by slowly reeling in the slack
line as the current


pushes it downstream. Trout may bite lightly so be ready. Setting the
hook requires a medium pull back on the rod. A hard hook set on trout
will cause you to catch less fish. Trout can be choosy and may like one
color on a given day but not the next. Try different colors if one is
not working for you. Another helpful hint is to find out what other
fisherman are using and this may save you some time. Flies and lures may
also be used for this method.

Float Fishing

This method is similar to drift fishing with the exception of using a
floater (bobber). A small slender floater is recommended. Adjust your
floater accordingly with the depth of the trout. Set the hook when the
floater makes a sudden movement.

Fishing with Jigs

There are several different artificial lures out there; however,
marabou jigs have proven themselves year after year. They come in a
variety of sizes (1/16-ounce to 1/256th of an ounce) and colors.
Effective colors are yellow, olive, white, black, brown or a combination
of colors. You can drift fish your marabou with or without a float. No
split shot is required unless it can improve your presentation in
swift/deep water or when using light jigs. Heavier jigs may require
trimming the tail to about half or more. Experiment with different
techniques such as a slow vibration (“jigging”) retrieve. Immediately
set the hook when you feel a strike. Avoid setting the hook on sight
alone and rely more on feel. Like with bait, experiment with different
colors.

Tight lining

Bottom fishing may be the easiest method, yet it can be very
effective. Use your polarized glasses to spot trout in slow moving water
and prepare for a relatively carefree fishing experience. Rigging
consists of using the desired hook with bait and crimping the
appropriate split shot 12 to 24 inches above the hook. Cast your line
upstream from the fish and let the bait settle to the bottom. Reel up
your slack line and sit back and relax while you wait for a strike.
Watch your pole closely for the slightest movement because trout may
bite lightly. After a few minutes reel your line in and check your bait.
Freshly bait your hook and cast in a different spot. Avoid using this
method in high water.

Tips For Success

Murky Water

You can use heavier line and a heavier split shot during murky water
conditions. The murky water will help conceal heavier line. A heavier
split shot or lure is often required because the water level will tend
to be higher and swifter when murky.

Clear Water

Use clear nylon sewing machine thread or two pound test line for
leader line on a clear sunny day. Trout will often see larger line and
shy away under clear water conditions. Use your polarized glasses to
locate fish. Trout generally tend to school up in deep holes when the
spring level is low. For more detailed information about your fishing
trip such as stream conditions, directions, or any question, please
contact the hatchery office located in each park.

Big Missouri Deer visits again!!!!! Goliath Buck is back!!

The one that got away. This monster buck taunted Jerry and I for several years in Missouri.  He appeared on camera at night for approximately two weeks each year in late October.  RIP Goliath.

When turkeys attack, 35lb turkey gets violent

My Pet Turkey has had enough!! Do not underestimate a 35lb turkey!!!

Turkey fight - Missouri Pet Turkey Fight

my pet turkey decided to pick a fight !!! My decoy lost!

Big 14 point buck in Missouri.

This buck teased me all summer near Eureka MO.  Then the new neighbors decided to trespass with four wheelers and even put up a camera next to mine.  The good news - next year he will be even better!!!

Tennessee's first unassisted trout

My four year old caught his first unassisted trout in Eureka, MO.  Very fun.

Missouri Bow Hunter Takes Rare Albino Buck

It's rare to see a mature buck, much less a mature albino, while in the deerstand.  Legendary bow hunter, Jerry Kinnaman, has done just that. This amazing buck is approximately 7.5 years old.  This Southeast Missouri buck is known to some as Whitey, Casper, Ghost, and The Goat.



After years of practice, preparation, and patience, Jerry's plan finally came together on a cold December morning.  As he sat quietly 24 feet in the canopy the elusive buck crept underneath.  Jerry heard a small crunch as the buck stepped through the icy leaves. Without moving a muscle he slowly gazed to his left and spotted the buck creeping between the brush. Jerry's heart pounded. He could see his breath as it hit the bitter cold air. He slowly stood up as the buck passed behind a small tree, then as the buck passed a thick bush Jerry realized it would be his last chance to raise his trusty bow before this buck disappeared into the distance.  Jerry held his bow and focused on his target.  He said to himself, "Aim small, miss small" he quickly went through his shooting checklist.  Grip-check, anchor-check, pin-check.  He slowed his breathing and gently released the string.  The arrow was true and the shot deadly.  It pierced his heart and the great animal was down within 30 yards.

Jerry lowered his head.  He had finally been given this wonderful opportunity. All of his practice and patience was worth it.  He passed the test. He overcame the challenge.  He hung is bow and crossed his frozen fingers.  He said a prayer and thanked the Lord for blessing him with this hunt.  He looked up and smiled like a little kid.  He was filled with excitement and pride.

Shooting albino deer is somewhat controversial. Most hunters look at an albino as a rare opportunity and a trophy.  Some believe they should be left alone because they are rare, yet evolution says that this is not a favorable trait.

How rare is an albino deer?
In a December 2013 report published by USA TODAY, Wisconsin naturalist John Bates, co-author of "White Deer: Ghosts of the Forest," said albino deer are born once in about 20,000 births. Some biologists claim only one in 100,000 deer is born albino, the report said.   It is even more rare they they make it to this age. Truly amazing.

Power Bait Trout RIgs

PowerBait Trout Dough Bait

PowerBait Trout Dough Bait comes in a variety of colors and scents. Depending on your area, one color and/or scent may be preferred over others.
As a general rule, we use two in particular - Glitter Trout Dough Bait Rainbow with Garlic Scent and Glitter Trout Dough Bait Rainbow with Extra Scent.
We have discovered the extra scent and the different colors along with the glitter tend to trigger more strikes in the ponds we fish.
That said, we also bring a container of pink PowerBait Trout Dough Bait as a back up; pink is one color missing in the Rainbow offering.
To fish the PowerBait Trout Dough Bait, the Team uses four fishing rigs which are described in the sections below.
Do check them out and let us know if they work for you this Season!

PowerBait - Trout Dough Bait

List Price: $5.99

Trout Fishing Rig Components

Components for the Trout Fishing Rigs

The photo in the sidebar shows the components used for the four Trout Fishing Rigs used by the Field Team.
In addition, the following is a list of the components for your reference:

1. Three 1/8oz Bullet Weights
2. One 3/0 Split Shot
3. One #6 Split Shot
4. Three Beads
5. Two Small Barrel Swivels (or Snap Swivels)
6. Four Treble Hooks (size 14-20)

These are the basic components used to make the four Trout Fishing Rigs. However, the weight of the Bullet Weights and the size and/or number of Split Shot used can be modified based on the existing conditions such as wind, current flow, and casting distance.

4lbs Fishing Line

Fishing Line

For ease of illustration, we are using a yellow Dacron line to make the Trout Fishing Rigs described in this article.
When fishing, we use 4-6 lbs test monofilament fishing line. More often, the brand is Stren or Trilene; whatever happens to be on sale at our local sporting goods store.

Trout Fishing Rig #1 Components

Threading the Bead

Completed Bead

Trout Fishing Rig #1

Trout Fishing Rig #1

The first of the four Trout Fishing Rigs described in this article uses a Bullet Weight, a Bead, and a Hook.
To make this rig, begin by threading the fishing line through the Bullet Weight, pointed end toward your reel.
Next, thread the fishing line through the Bead from one end.
And then, double the fishing line back, and thread it through the Bead a second time.
The fishing line should pass through the same end when threaded through the Bead the first time.

^{When the fishing line is tightened, the Bead should look like the picture in the sidebar - "Completed Bead".
Also, allow for 12-18 inches of fishing line on the tag end. If you need to increase the tag end, loosen the line through the bead and adjust to the desired length.}

Finally, using an improved clinch knot, tie the hook to the tag end. Refer to the picture in the sidebar - "Trout Fishing Rig #1" to see the completed rig.
This is a quick rig to tie and allows for adjusting the tag end (leader) by loosening the loop through the Bead.
When used with an Ultralight Fishing Rod, it casts easily and makes for long cast when needed.
It also is sensitive to light strikes as the line slips through the weight minimizing drag, which will increase hook ups with finicky Trout.
The drawback... it is limited in strength because of the loop created by the Bead. It should only be used where small Rainbow Trout are stocked (9-13 inch Trout).
If larger Rainbow Trout are in the area, better to use Trout Fishing Rig #2 or Trout Fishing Rig #3.

Trout Fishing Rig #2 Components

Trout Fishing Rig #2

Trout Fishing Rig #2

The second Trout Fishing Rig uses a Bullet Weight, Bead, a small Swivel, and a Hook.
To make this rig, begin by threading the fishing line through the Bullet Weight, pointed end toward your reel.
Next, thread the fishing line through the Bead, and then, using an improved clinch knot, tie the small Swivel to the fishing line.
Then, measure 12-18 inches of fishing line to make a leader; and then, cut and tie it to the other end of the small Swivel.
Finally, tie the tag end of the leader to the Hook. Refer to the picture in the sidebar - "Trout Fishing Rig #2" to see the completed rig.
This rig takes a little longer to tie compared to Trout Fishing Rig #1 and does not readily allow for ease of adjusting the leader's length. However, it will handle larger Rainbow Trout!
It is sensitive to light strikes as the line slips through the weight minimizing drag like in Trout Fishing Rig #1.
It's drawback is when fished in rivers with a strong current the rig may slip and result in missed hook sets. When this happens, use Trout Fishing Rig #3.

Trout Fishing Rig #3 Components

Trout Fishing Rig #3

Trout Fishing Rig #3

The third Trout Fishing Rig uses a small #6 Split Shot, a Bullet Weight, a Bead, a small Swivel, and a Hook.
To make this rig, follow the same steps as Trout Fishing Rig #2.
Then, push the Bullet Weight and Bead against the small Swivel.
Finally, attach the small #6 Split Shot about two inches from the Bullet Weight. Refer to the picture in the sidebar - "Trout Fishing Rig #3" to see the completed rig.
By adding the small #6 Split Shot, the rig will handle stronger currents and lessen the likelihood of a slack line caused by the current.

Trout Fishing Rig #4 Components

Trout Fishing Rig #4

Trout Fishing Rig #4

The fourth Trout Fishing Rig is the simplest to setup, using a 3/0 Split Shot and a Hook.
To make this rig, attach the hook to the fishing line with an improved clinch knot.
And then, measure 12-18 inches from the hook and attach the 3/0 Split Shot.
That's it... refer to the picture in the sidebar - "Trout Fishing Rig #4" to see the completed rig.
This rig is the least sensitive of all the rigs described because the fishing line does not slip through the weight and the fish will feel drag against the weight.
However, it will handle larger Rainbow Trout. It uses a minimum of components (a hook and a split shot). More weight can be added as conditions require. And, it is quick to setup especially with cold fingers in freezing weather!

Missouri Summers Filled with Black Bears

While the state's black bears largely disappeared in the 1950s, since then they've mounted a steady comeback by, well, mounting each other in the woods and making more black bears. Such is nature.
The Missouri Department of Conservation estimates the present black bear population at 300, with most of the bears concentrated in the southern part of state. With black bears reproducing steadily for the first time in more than half a century, determining the rate of that population growth is the next big goal for the MDC's Black Bear Project.
"We want to know how fast that population is growing," says MDC resource scientist Jeff Beringer. "What's the population going to be like in ten years? Are we going to have five times more bears? Are we going to have the same number of bears? We really don't know."
See also: Boo Boo the Bear is Saved, Finds Temporary Home at Saint Louis Zoo after Rabies Scare
Beringer and his Black Bear Project team have been following the black bear population for the past four years, but to determine the rate of growth they first need to track a statistically significant number of reproducing bears.
To that end, Beringer and his team will crisscross the state over the next seven years in order to find, trap and radio-tag bears. He says June is the main time of the year for bear mating, and he's planning to tag and track female bears all the way to their winter dens to see how many cubs they've had.

MDC

Jeff Beringer extracts a tooth from a tranquilized black bear.

But with the animals' increased population comes the inevitable collision with humans. As Beringer puts it: "You have civilization to deal with." "There's going to be a point where you reach social carrying capacity for the number of bears on the landscape and they start to cause a lot of conflict with the people," he says. "When that happens people start to get a negative attitude about bears."
To avoid those conflicts, both the MDC and the Missouri Black Bear Foundation, a non profit, are working to educate Missourians on safe interaction with bears and efforts to conserve the animals' habitats.
"I think there is a lot of potential fear," says Jim Karpowicz, outreach coordinator for the Missouri Black Bear Foundation. "The people of Missouri need to get their head wrapped around that and take some steps as far as how they handle their garbage and how they handle food in campgrounds."

Missouri Department of Conservation

Karpowicz suggests campers or people living in heavily bear populated areas take great care when it comes to food.
"Bears will get up on people's porches for dog food and they've been known to go after bird feeders," he says. "People should just being aware that there are these huge vacuum cleaners with incredible noses that are out there, and you can't make life easy for them."
Beringer is even more blunt when it comes to people feeding bears.
"A fed bear is a dead bear," he says. "Put the food in the trunk of your car or put it in a place where a bear won't have access to it, that's going to keep the bears wild and that's going to keep the bears from causing you a problem."
However, as the bear population grows these clashes with humans may be unavoidable. States including Wisconsin, Minnesota, Colorado, California and Florida are already dealing with bears rambling near -- or into -- human areas.
Eventually, Beringer predicts that Missouri will manage its bear problems the same way it manages its other animal problems.
"We'll hunt bears at some point," he says. "There's no question."
Until then, if you see a bear DO NOT SHOOT IT. Instead, fill out this form to help Beringer in his quest to track and preserve Missouri's fledgling bear population.

By Danny Wicentowski Fri., May 30 2014 at 9:43 AM

Lake Ozark Fishing Report

On Saturday a friend and I began fishing near the dam at daylight.  The water was like glass and his boat glided across the lake.  What a beautiful way to start the day.

Lake conditions : 
Air temp was 55-75
Water temp 62-66
Slight breeze in the morning with increased wind in the afternoon.

Lures: (lures listed based on effectiveness. * indicates fish caught)

*brush hog - darker colors
*money minnow 6"
*sinko
*fluke - white
*jig - PBJ color
*spinner bait -chartreuse
shallow crank - chartreuse
medium depth crank bait - crawdad
buzz bait - chartreuse

We began the day working as a team. We both tried different lures until we figured out the pattern.  Our first fish was caught on a baby brush hog in 4-8 feet of water.  We immediately began to work the bottom with brush hogs and jigs.   Our best fish were caught while sitting in 15-20 feet while casting to the bank.  Most of the fish were caught at a depth of 4-10 feet with chunk rock on the bank.  We had very few fish in areas with pea gravel or sand.   By 830 we had six keepers ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 lbs.
By 930 the large fish simply quit.  I am not sure why they decided to shut down, but several conditions changed.  The temp began to rise, the wind picked up, then it clouded over.
It was time to try different tactics.  We tried deeper water, spinners, crankbaits, and several others, but had no luck.  We did find some large females on beds, but they refused to bite and were difficult to locate.
 
Fishing was slow the rest of the day and we called it quits when the storm rolled in around 2pm.
Overall - brush hogs were a hit in 4-10 ft on chunk rock banks.

Fish Hatcheries and Trout Parks in Missouri

From MDC
Missouri hatcheries and trout parks not only support our state’s great fishing, they’re also fascinating places to visit. Some feature visitor centers with displays, films and exhibits. Several have tour schedules or will accept appointments for special tours. Check under "Related Information" for more information about specific hatcheries and trout parks.

Cold-Water Hatcheries and Trout Parks

Missouri’s trout hatcheries are located at each of Missouri’s four trout parks and on Lake Taneycomo. They provide high-quality trout fishing on cold-water streams in Missouri.

Warm-Water Hatcheries

Missouri’s has five hatcheries that produce warm- and cool-water fish. Lost Valley Hatchery near Warsaw is one of the nation’s most advanced and largest public hatcheries. Lost Valley is known for raising paddlefish and white bass/striped bass hybrids. Chesapeake hatchery near Mount Vernon warms its water to get catfish to spawn early, producing 12- to 14-inch catfish in one growing season. Blind Pony Hatchery near Sweet Springs is known for producing the endangered pallid sturgeon, which is being used to restore populations in the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Hunnewell Hatchery raises hybrid sunfish, which grow fast and large and are used in kids’ fishing clinics. Indian Trail Hatchery near Salem produces largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish for farm pond stocking.

Trout fishing near St Louis -Maramec Spring Park and Hatchery

Maramec Spring Hatchery produces about 100,000 trout a year, and all are stocked in Maramec Spring Park. Trout are received as 3-inch fingerlings from Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery. The trout are fed three times a day and will grow 3/4 to 1 inch a month. The fish are reared in a raceway fed by the water from Maramec Spring. The fish are stocked at a rate of 2.25 fish per tag sold and are at least 12 inches in length. An additional 40,000 trout are hauled in from Montauk Hatchery each year to be stocked in the park.
Maramec is a privately owned and operated by the James Foundation. The fishery is administered by the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Area Information

Tours

Contact the Maramec Spring Hatchery office to schedule a tour for your school group or organization. Tours must be arranged in advance. Tours usually last around 45 minutes.

Directions

Maramec Spring Park is located six miles east of St. James Missouri on Highway 8. From St. Louis: I-44 west to St. James. Highway 8 and 68 run together east through St. James. Approximately three miles out of St. James, Highway 68 turns south. Continue on Highway 8 three more miles. The park is on the left.

Missouri Bears are on the rise

Bears in Missouri

During my years out west I was surrounded by these amazing creatures, but I didn't expect to come home to Missouri and see them.  Hopefully leaving my trail cams out year round will pay off.

Although black bears are native to Missouri, they were nearly wiped out during settlement. Now they're making a comeback. Use this section to follow our black bear research project, report bear sightings, camp safely in bear country and control nuisance bears.

Southeast Missouri Bears

Southeast Missouri black bear trapping to begin in May

From the MDC
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. -- Bear sighting reports are more important than ever to Missouri Conservation Department (MDC) biologists and agents in southeast Missouri. MDC embarked on a cooperative black-bear research effort with the University of Missouri-Columbia and Mississippi State University last year in Missouri’s southwest region. The study, funded through the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Wildlife Restoration program with help from Safari Club International, will bring bear trapping to the southeastern portion of the state this May.
Though black bears were found across Missouri when the first settlers arrived, unregulated hunting and habitat destruction drastically decreased their numbers. By the 1950s, black bears were considered to be extirpated from Missouri.
Arkansas completed a successful bear restoration program in the 1960s and it’s thought that many of the bears we have in Missouri are the outgrowth of that program.
Recent data indicates some bears in southwest Missouri are genetically unique and likely the result of a Missouri bear population that was never completely extirpated, according to MDC biologists.
In past years, MDC biologists conducted some bear monitoring, but the bulk of data obtained from these efforts merely showed spots where bears could be found and revealed little information about their habits and annual life cycles in Missouri. This study will provide further information, such as movement patterns, population densities, habitat preferences, male-to-female ratios and overall numbers of Missouri bears.
Conservation employees met in Ellington recently for training that will prepare them to collect the needed data. According to the training facilitator and wildlife biologist, Scott McWilliams, biologists will use hair snares and barrel traps to trap the bears.
Bears that are trapped will be tranquilized while biologists take 40 measurements and samples, which will include DNA, weight, length and other data. The bears will be radio collared with GPS monitors that will give biologists a means to track their movements.
“We will use pastries to lure bears into traps, which we will monitor daily,” McWilliams said. “We will arrive quickly after a bear enters the trap. Once our measurements are complete, we’ll monitor each bear from a distance to ensure it exits safely.”
McWilliams said the MDC is working with private landowners throughout the study to avoid trapping on public land, which will eliminate conflicts with public land use during the bear trapping process. Landowners within the southeast and Ozark regions who have witnessed bears on their property are encouraged to contact the MDC for possible participation in the study. McWilliams said landowners in the southwest region who participated gained valuable information about resident and transient bears on their properties.
To report a bear sighting or for more information about the bear study, contact your local conservation agent or the MDC’s Southeast Regional Office at 573/290-5730

Food Plots and Honey Holes - Preparing for deer season

The idea of making big, elaborate food plots that require heavy equipment and hours of labor tends to intimidate landowners. But there's a much simpler and cheaper way to join the food plot craze. Grant Woods, one of America's top whitetail biologists and head of a deer management consulting firm, creates and hunts over what he calls hidey holes. "They're just small woods openings where I sweeten the deal in a place where deer already like to go--like putting ketchup and mustard on a hot dog."
These micro food plots require few tools: a small sprayer with Roundup herbicide, one bag each of lime and fertilizer, a rake or a leaf blower, and some seed. Building the plot is simple, and you can backpack in everything you need in a trip or two.
THE PERFECT SPOT Think small. A quarter acre is as big as you'll want to go. "An excellent place is around the trunk of a big, old tree that's been lightning-struck or killed by gypsy moths," Woods says. "Suddenly there's an opening in the canopy where sun hits the ground for a good part of the day." Log landings (cleared areas where loggers have piled timber), woods roads, and natural openings also work.
Woods preps the seedbed by spraying grass or weeds with Roundup. "Woody brush will have to be girdled [the bark scarred with a knife or hatchet] first," he says. "But don't go through the headache of clearing out dead trees--just work around them. You're not creating a field here."
If leaf litter is all that covers the ground, Woods uses a gas-powered blower to remove leaves and sticks for maximum soil-to-seed contact. "A leaf blower is one of the handiest tools a food-plotter can have. Not only does it do a beautiful job of clearing out the plot itself, but it's also great for creating an entry and exit trail to your stand." If you don't have one, use a steel-tined garden rake instead.
With the debris gone, Woods applies pelletized lime and fertilizer (which breaks down more quickly than the powdered variety) with a handheld spreader. "This is an essential step," he stresses. "Nearly all woodland soils are so acidic that even if plants grow, they'll taste bitter to deer. So I spread as much lime and fertilizer as I can haul in a couple of trips."
TASTY TREATS Finally, broadcast the seed on top of the lime and fertilizer. Deciding what--and when--to plant is critical. "You have a very specific mission: having that plot at peak palatability to deer when conditions are right for you," Woods says. "Seed it too early, and deer can wipe out a plot before you hunt it."
In most areas you'll be planting about three weeks before the opening of bow season, then hunting the site a limited number of times, depending on the crop. You need to consider both its attractiveness and its durability. Deer love peas, for example, but can eat an entire plot in about a week. Clover also draws whitetails and will buy you several more days, depending on the population density. Brassica blends are another favorite, but they mature at different times and give you maybe a month to six weeks.
It takes about four hours to establish a micro plot, according to Woods. "Some folks say that given the little time you can hunt one, you'd be better off just scouting more. That's true if you have exclusive access to a large tract. But if you're hunting only a small acreage or sharing land with other hunters, hidey holes provide an edge that's worth the time."

2012 Turkey Outlook for Missouri

 

A Good Hatch in 2011 Should Increase Turkey Numbers Throughout Missouri

In 2011, relatively dry conditions and an emergence of periodical cicadas that provided protein-rich food for nesting hens and growing poults helped Missouri’s turkey population experience its best hatch in nearly a decade. Brood-survey results indicated that 2011’s hatch was 42 percent above the previous five-year average. An especially notable improvement occurred in northeast Missouri where production was more than double the five-year average. In many parts of the state, hunters have already noticed the difference a good year of production can make. Because hatch success drives changes in turkey abundance, several more years of good production would bolster the number of turkeys in the Show-Me State.

Transitional times

Missouri’s turkey population has undergone a transition during the past several decades. When the population was expanding rapidly in the 1970s and 80s, people often reported seeing flocks of turkeys that numbered in the hundreds. During this time, production was high because turkeys were taking advantage of vacant, prime habitat.
But, a basic ecological principle eventually caught up with Missouri’s turkeys. As wildlife populations grow, factors that limit their size begin to exert an ever-greater influence. Habitats become crowded, predators find easier pickings (which leads to more predators), and diseases spread quicker. By increasing deaths, decreasing production, or doing both, each limiting factor helps put the brakes on an expanding population. Missouri’s wild turkeys were no exception. Although the 2011 hatch should certainly increase turkey numbers, and the potential for continued population growth exists, it’s unlikely turkey numbers will increase to the peaks seen in the 1980s. Many factors that affect wild turkey abundance have changed over the past several decades. As a result, hunters should expect year-to-year fluctuations in turkey numbers that stem from variations in reproductive success.
Wild turkey populations are dynamic. With persistently poor spring weather—at least from a turkey’s standpoint—turkey numbers can be expected to decline. With several years of good weather and production, turkey numbers can rebound. Thus, a sizable turkey population can occur in the same area where numbers were down just a few years earlier. Although Missouri’s wild turkey population is not likely to reach the levels observed in the 1980s, a few more years of good spring weather and production should lead to a substantial increase in the number of turkeys on the landscape.

A comprehensive approach to wild turkey management

comprehensive approach to manage Missouri’s turkey population. In addition to analyzing harvest data, turkey brood surveys and archer wild turkey observation surveys are conducted each year to monitor population trends. Thousands of hunters also are surveyed annually to obtain data on hunter opinions, success and satisfaction. Each year, turkey hunting regulations are reviewed by both the Department’s Regulations Committee and the Conservation Commission. Decisions are based upon both science and public input. The Department’s approach to harvest management strikes a balance between providing opportunities for hunters to enjoy the resource and ensuring harvest is within the limits of what the turkey population can sustain.
The Department sets spring turkey season to begin after most hen turkeys have already mated. Because of this and the fact that male turkeys represent 99 percent of the harvest, spring hunting is not a limiting factor on population growth.
Although a portion of the fall harvest consists of female turkeys, fall hunting has not led to declining turkey numbers. Fall hunters currently harvest only a small percentage of the turkey population. The 2011 fall firearms harvest of just over 7,000 turkeys represents less than 2 percent of the state’s turkey population.

Missouri’s wild turkey population remains strong

Although a good hatch in 2011 will result in an abundance of jakes in 2012, the poor hatches of 2007–2010 will continue to make finding mature gobblers more challenging than in past years. Missouri is still widely recognized as offering some of the nation’s best turkey hunting. Each year, Missouri’s turkey harvest and hunter success rates are among the highest in the country. Missouri’s wild turkey population remains strong, and although this year’s harvest is not likely to top harvests of the early 2000s, hunters can expect great hunting opportunities during the 2012 spring season.