Conditions:
As of this writing we have had significant rainfall and warmer temperatures melting all remaining snow and putting the tribs at extremely high and muddy conditions. Caution is advised to those anglers attempting to fish these conditions as changing bottom conditions and fast moving water can be a dangerous combination. Any fishing in these conditions is best done from shore. This heavy precipititation will help the low clear conditions that we have had over the last few weeks. As levels fall, the access areas at Walnut and Elk will be worth a try with the possibility of fresh fish. Fishing has been excellent at lower Elk just south of the boat launch with blood dots, sucker spawn and most egg patterns nailing them. Fish have been scattered in the upper stretches of the tribs but fishing still remains good. Crooked creek has been producing and should remain so as current water levels subside.

Burbot
Anglers are beginning to target Burbot along the North Pier. Most Burbot are accidentally hooked by unsuspecting Perch anglers using minnows and perch rigs. Anglers specifically targeting Burbot will typically use the largest shiners they can get, often using two on one hook and fish them on the bottom. Burbot are a fresh water cod that enjoy the coldest depths of Great Lakes. As water temperatures drop, Burbot will move into shallower water and can often be caught from the North and South piers. Burbot has a mild taste and can be enjoyed fried, baked, broiled or as Officer Bowser prefers, fixed as a "mock lobster" and served up with drawn butter.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS

Erie Forecast:
Wednesday: Cloudy skies with wintry precipitation likely during the afternoon. High around 35F. Winds ENE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of precip 50%.
Wednesday night: Snow, sleet or freezing rain in the evening turning to all snow late. Low near 25F. Winds NE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of precip 60%. Snowfall around one inch.
Thursday: Some snow flurries in the morning may become a bit heavier during the afternoon. Temperatures steady in the upper 20s. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 30%.
Thursday (24 hours): Snow showers at times. Highs in the upper 20s and lows in the mid 20s.
Friday (24 hours): Occasional light snow. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the low 20s.
Saturday (24 hours): A few snow showers. Highs in the upper 20s and lows in the low30s

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY, WARREN COUNTY / WCO Mark Kerr

Cliff Notes:

If you're just biding your time, the lengthy version can be read in its entirety below. However, if you want the quick and dirty ... here it is:

Increased temperatures + Heavy snow melt X +/- 48 hours of rain = BAD FISHING!

East County Tributaries:

Yeah right, not with Mother Nature being up to her old tricks again. The only thing that appears to be consistent about the weather is that it has not been consistent … and that’s all I’ve got to say about that!

Seems we had two or three good days (Friday through Sunday); then, all went downhill. Patrols today showed moderate to exceptionally high conditions with, still, increasing water levels, due to the, almost, continual rain we have been receiving since Sunday evening. Heavy concentrations of fog were present from I-90 northward. Weather forecasters are calling for a drop in temperatures starting this afternoon (12-31-02), with a continued chance of snow/flurries through Friday. Hopefully, the colder weather will slow up some of the run-off entering the streams, bringing them down to a more agreeable level in the days to come. However, looking at the "silver lining", the increased water levels may, perhaps, entice higher numbers of steelhead into the tributaries, during this next week.

Ice Conditions:
Not today, folks. Some of the local impoundments contained +/- 2" of the stuff, through this last weekend; however, since Sunday night that has been steadily decreasing. Most are now top covered by a couple inches of water, with exceptionally poor levels of ‘ice’ (more like ‘slush’) underneath.

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake and Conneaut Lake- I have not been in the district for the last week and a half to know what is biting right now, however driving back here tonight (12/31/2002) I drove through about 2 hours of rain and there is 4 to 6 inches of rain in my front ditch so I can’t imagine the ice is any good at this time. It is also very warm, probably mid 40’s. I will have more on fishing conditions next week I promise.

Fresh run male from the Project Waters

Lots of room on the North Jetty

Best of Holidays ... Western Erie County PFBC Officers wish all of you a great holiday season.

CENTRAL ERIE / WCO TOM EDWARDS & DWCO BRYAN BRENDLEY
Presque Isle State Park:
The waters are somewhat open in the marina and there have been some perch taken from the docks. Not a lot of action seen on the Bayfront.

Edinboro Lake:
The lake is now back up to normal pool level and is ready for the freeze.

Nothing much to report for the past week I've just been enjoying some leave around the holidays.

Best holiday wishes to all from the BLE officers in Central Erie!

EASTERN ERIE / WCO MARK KERR
Erie Forecast:
Wednesday: Snow likely. Temperatures steady in the upper 20s. ENE winds shifting to NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snow may accumulate 2 to 4 inches.
Wednesday night: Cloudy with snow. Low around 25F. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 70%. 1 to 3 inches of snow expected.
Thursday: Flurries and some snow showers diminishing late in the day. Temperatures steady in the upper 20s. Winds W at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 30%.
Thursday (24 hours): Snow showers at times. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the low 20s.
Friday (24 hours): A few snow showers. Highs in the upper 20s and lows in the low 20s.
Saturday (24 hours): Cloudy. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the mid 20s.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL

WHOPPER WHITE BASS IS NEW STATE RECORD When Robert Hornstrom of Meadville headed out to nearby Conneaut Lake on November 8, he had high hopes for a good day of fishing. Considering that he came home with the new state record white bass, one could say: “mission accomplished.” Hornstrom was jigging with a quarter-ounce spoon when the fish struck. Once in hand, the fish measured just over 19 inches with a 15 ˝-inch girth. A trip to the meat department of a local grocery store to have the bass weighed on a certified scale revealed that not only was the fish big, it was actually the biggest on record for its species in Pennsylvania. The new record, 3 lbs, 15.7 oz, surpasses the previous white bass benchmark by a little more than an ounce and a half. David F. Hornstein, also of Meadville, caught that 3 lb, 14 oz fish - at Conneaut Lake. The state record white bass prior to Hornstein’s 1996 catch also came from Conneaut Lake. Pennsylvania certifies state records based on total body weight. Potential record fish must exceed the established mark by at least one ounce, as weighed on a certified scale. To be considered for state record certification, a fish must be caught using legal means, in season, from Pennsylvania waters open to the public without charge or fee. Fish taken from farm ponds, fee-fishing lakes, ponds or streams or in waters restricted to use by club members or their guests do not qualify. A biologist or Waterways Conservation Officer from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) must examine the fish. The PFBC is the only entity that can certify an official state record fish in the Commonwealth.

Conditions:
The tribs have begun to drop some after a heavy run off and we seem to have settle in to slushy mornings and nice conditions during the day. Much of the recent ice has melted and many areas are open as of this writing. Local reports have indicated a good number of fresh fish in many of the lower stretches of Elk and Walnut Creeks. The high water and the seasonal swings in temperatures seem to have stirred up some movement. Minnows and eggs have been popular with the bait crowd. The crowds have continued to thin with plenty of elbow room in most areas especially on weekdays. Fish are being caught although the numbers of fish in the tribs has thinned out some. Good fishing bets this time of year are typically the areas of the tribs south of route 20. With the high water levels we are experiencing fish will be coming in from the lake randomly and targeting the Walnut and Elk Creek Access areas may yield fresh fish for the smoker.

Walnut Creek Access Office:
Friday, December 20th will be the last day the WCAA office and restroom facilities will be open for the season. (Portable facilities will remain throughout the winter) The office has all of the popular PFBC publications, books and posters as well as 2003 licenses, all of which make great last minute stocking stuffers. Sherri, Beverly, & Marilyn (the office staff at Walnut) give their best wishes for a great holiday and thank everyone for a wonderful season.

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO MARK KERR

As of yesterday (12-16-02), the majority of the tributaries had dropped a
little but were still running a bit high. Color has turned 'greenish', but
I have not noticed any large runs of fresh fish entering the streams.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS

ERIE FORECAST:
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy with drizzle developing in the afternoon. High 44F. Winds SE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of precip 30%.
Wednesday night: Cloudy during the evening. A few showers developing late. Low 39F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Thursday: Rain showers, with increasing winds in the afternoon. High 51F. Winds S at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Thursday (24 hours): Windy with showers at times. Highs in the low 50s and lows in the low 40s.
Friday (24 hours): Showers possible. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the upper 20s.
Saturday (24 hours): Chance of a few snow showers. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the mid 20s.

Legion Park area of Elk Creek

State Line Pond getting a covering of ice

Conditions:
Gradual snow melt off and daytime temperatures approaching the forties have kept the tribs high and nicely colored. This is the time of year that the tribs get that beautiful deep green color that seems to be so desirable (Between ice overs of course). Cold temperatures at night will yield ice and slush at day break but the late mornings and afternoons have produced great conditions in most areas. Upper stream areas are where to look for fish. Follies End, Streuchen, The Girard and Legion Park on Elk should all be opening up from the recent ice. Fish are up on Walnut on near the Millcreek Mall and some catches have been made at the McKean hole. High water levels should bring additional late staging fish into the tribs making lower Walnut and Elk worth a try. Crooked Creek has good flow and color with fish scattered throughout.

CENTRAL ERIE / WCO TOM EDWARDS & DWCO BRYAN BRENDLEY

A recent patrol around Presque Isle State Park showed ice all along the park side of the bay. Duck hunters were breaking ice to set out decoys. With a Warming trend this week it may be fishable in the upcoming days but that is up to mother nature.I spoke recently with a boro employee in Edinboro and they informed me that the repairs on the spillway were complete and that normal dam level will be regained once again pending mother nature and runoff. Since these repairs are complete Edinboro will be ready for ice fishing once the ice is favorable.

EASTERN ERIE/ WCO MARK KERR

Wednesday: Cloudy with a mixture of light rain and snow developing in the afternoon. High 38F. Winds light and variable. Chance of precip 30%.
Wednesday night: Cloudy with rain and snow showers in the evening. Remaining cloudy late. Low 31F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precip 30%.
Thursday: Partly cloudy skies. High 43F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday (24 hours): Partly cloudy. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the low 30s.
Friday (24 hours): Mostly cloudy. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the mid 30s.
Saturday (24 hours): Mix of rain and snow showers. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the low 30s.

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL

Pymatuning Lake- Ice season has started here at the lake with a few fishermen venturing out on the ice already. Several guys were spotted by the outboard motor club fishing just out from shore however I have to warn you that the ice is still not safe in several areas and with the snow covering the ice you wont know it is a bad area until you go through. They are predicting warmer weather with possible rain for the next couple of days so that will not help either. If you are going bring a buddy or let someone know where you will be in case you have problems. Another real good idea is a staff or walking stick, you can turn it sideways if you start going threw and prevent yourself from going all the way in. Ice hand augers are another life saver should you go threw to help you drag yourself out.
Conneaut Lake- The main body of the lake is still open water with only the back bays and most of the edges being iced in. This does limit being able to put a boat on though because you can't get to the open water right now.
2003 Fishing Licenses are on sale now and what a great Christmas gift they would make for your loved one. They are an entire year of fun at a very inexpensive price so buy them now before the beginning of the year rush.

The steelhead runs had a slow start on many of the southern shore Lake Erie tributary streams this fall due to a lack of precipitation. The exception was the Cattaraugus River in New York, which had excellent runs of fall chromers in late September and October due to its large watershed, and spring feed sources. Run-off conditions improved tremendously during November and many of the Pennsylvania tributaries like Elk, Walnut and 20 Mile Creeks got large runs of steelies and enough water to move them quite a distance upstream. The Ohio tributaries have had moderate runs of steelhead so far, primarily because of the Little Manistee strain steelhead implanted in those tributaries. This steelhead is primarily a late winter, early spring run fish, but some will begin their upstream migration as early as January. Ohio still gets a small number of stray steelies from Pennsylvania, New York and Michigan waters. Cold and snowy weather conditions have put the brakes on steelhead fishing right now on many of the tributaries. But this early freeze should be temporary, with a thaw expected soon. The freeze/thaw cycle is a normal occurrence on the tributaries during the winter months. The steelheader should watch the weather and stream conditions and plan his trips around open water conditions. During ice-over conditions there can still be a few open areas. Look for faster runs and pocket water in the bottom third of the tributaries near the lake. If worse comes to worse, steelheaders have been known to break surface ice in their favorite pool or run and come back later. Surprisingly, winter steelies settle down pretty quickly after this commotion and can become cooperative fly takers. Be careful though, broken ankles and sprained wrists are not worth the effort, especially in really thick ice conditions. When there are open water opportunities in the winter, the bulk of the steelhead will be wintering over in pool eddies and tail-outs, slower runs that have good depth, along shale ledges and in shale streambed troughs. These are prime areas for the steelheader to look for winter steelhead because they provide the slow current flows that lethargic winter steelies are seeking prior to their spawning in late winter. Classic winter steelhead water temperatures are considered at 38 degrees F or below.

____________________________________________________

... Stop Sign Hole in the Project Water Section

... Manchester Hole on Walnut

... Mouth of Trout Run

Ice Caution:
Anglers intent on breaking up ice, especially in the larger pools such as Manchester, can be putting themselves in danger and most often end up doing little more then spooking the fish they are after. If you must break up an icy pool, do so from the edge and work in small sections to avoid large ice flows. A good rule of thumb is that it takes a good solid 3 inches of ice to safely support one person. Anglers wading in ice water are urged to use felt bottom waders for good traction in ice and snow. Open top rubber chest waders can be a hazard this time of year as they will fill quickly with ice water upon falling. With harsh fishing conditions that winter brings it is a good idea to fish with a buddy or at least carry a cell phone, especially when fishing the more remote areas.
CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / DWCO BRYAN BRENDLEY
Erie Forecast 12/4/02:
Wednesday: Cloudy. High 28F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday night: Cloudy. Low 23F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday: Cloudy. Temperatures steady in the upper 20s. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.
Thursday (24 hours): Overcast. Highs in the upper 20s and lows in the low 20s.
Friday (24 hours): Snow showers. Highs in the upper 20s and lows in the low 20s.
Saturday (24 hours): Overcast. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the upper 20s.

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO MARK KERR
(reprinted from the PFBC Website)
A Safety Checklist for Ice Anglers

See complete WCO report

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL
Pymatuning Lake- Unfortunately I have not been around for the last week to see if anyone has been catching fish.

Conneaut Lake-
I have not had any reports forwarded to me this week from here and as I said I was gone for the week so nothing to report from here.

WCO Tom Edwards / Central Erie County
Wednesday: Scattered flurries and snow showers. Temperatures steady in the low 30s. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 30%.
Wednesday night: Mostly cloudy. Some flurries or snow showers are possible. Low 21F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 30%.
Thursday: Off and on snow flurries are possible along with variably cloudy skies. High 32F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 20%.
Thursday (24 hours): Cloudy with flurries. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the upper 20s.
Friday (24 hours): Mostly cloudy with snow showers. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the low 30s.
Saturday (24 hours): Snow showers. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the low 30s.

EASTERN-ERIE/WESTERN-WARREN COUNTIES / WCO Mark Kerr...
UPPER 20-MILE ACCESS QUESTIONS:
Since last week's report regarding anglers' fishing the 'Snakehole'
area of Twentymile, I have received some questions on access... Hopefully,
this will answer the majority of those queries posed.
That area immediately to the south of the SR 20 railroad tracks is
still posted against trespass/fishing. However, this stretch of water
extends for only a short distance upstream of the 'tubes'. Anglers can
still access the 20-mile gorge by parking along the west berm immediately
after the second set of tracks on Gulf Road (please DON'T park in the
vineyard!). These tracks are approximately 1/4 mile south of the first
set, which are immediately south of SR 20. Trespass is forbidden over the
railroad trestle in this area; however, there is a path which extends south
along the west rim of the gorge. This path allows the 'careful' angler to
gain foot traffic access to the upper reaches of Twentymile, extending well
into the State of New York. It's a long way to the bottom of the gorge, so
watch your step!! Fishing pressure is generally light in this area, as the
walk to the bottom (or, more importantly, the walk back to the top!!) is
not for everybody. By this time of year, steelhead have, through the
convenience of several significant precipitation's, generally been able to
conquer the 'falls' under SR 20 and have moved well into New York.
Concentrations of steelhead will not be as numerous as those witnessed
between the lakeshore and the 'iron bridge' south of SR 5, but they are
there; and, more importantly, these fish haven't received quite the
'intense' angling pressure as their counterparts to the north. If you have
a New York fishing license take it with you, as some of the best holes for
steelhead activity, at this time of year, are more than a mile into our
neighboring state. Good luck and good fishin'!!

EAST COUNTY TRIBUTARY UPDATES:
Welcomed precipitation, taking the form of 'white-out' conditions, on
11-22-02 have substantially increased the volume occurring within the Erie
tribs. As of Sunday morning (11-24-02), most east county tributaries were
running high, swift and just a touch off-color. However, these streams
historically drop back to 'enjoyable' fishing conditions in relatively
short order. If we don't receive any more heavy precipitation, these
streams will be at 'peak' conditions by no later than the first of the
week. Additionally, this newest round of precipitation should increase the
level of steelhead activity within the east county tributaries.
Areas of steelhead concentrations:
20-mile-- Fish are scattered throughout the stream. Most
anglers concentrate on the stretch from the mouth through just south of SR 5; however, don't overlook the lesser hit sections at Hirtzel's, I-90, Gulf
Road and just over into New York State.
16-mile-- Heaviest concentrations occur from the mouth through the intersection of SR 5 & SR 89.
12-mile-- Historically, the falls immediately south of SR 5 keep all angling pressure confined from this area north to the lake shore.
8-mile-- Only ever see one, two or three anglers playing on this stream and 99.9% are within 50 yards +/- of the mouth.
7-mile-- Access is by 'walk-in-only', by parking on SR 5
and 'hoofing' it through the Glinodo Center property. Fall steelhead fishing activity is present; however, it appears that the best runs come in the Spring.
4-mile-- Biggest concentrations are present from the
footbridge at the Lawrence Park Golf Course through the mouth, with the best opportunity occurring at the large pool just south of the lake shore. DON'T scale the fence of the Lawrence Park Hunting/Fishing Club property. Access to the east side of the mouth hole can be attained by simply walking immediately to the south of the fence and following the east bank.

WESTERN CRAWFORD / WCO JOE RUSSELL

Pymatuning Lake- Walleye and perch are still being caught from boats on the South end by jigging sonar's. The numbers are not all that great but the sizes have been averaging 16" to 20". Chanteuse seems to be the color of choice and late afternoon to early evening seems to be the best time frame. Lake levels are still extremely low so if you are boating be extra careful and take a little extra time to get there safe.Conneaut Lake- a fisherman E-mailed me this week to let me know he caught a 44" Muskie while trolling out here this week. I have reports that white bass are still doing well also. This is the time of year to fish this lake because you will probably have the entire lake to yourself.
Public Meeting - A public meeting on the possible increase of horsepower on Pymatuning Lake was held on 11/21/2002 with 145 people in attendance. People were given 2 to 3 minutes to stand up and give their opinion on the proposed increase. Open for discussion was the possibility of 25 horsepower, 18 horsepower, or leaving it as it was. The people that stood up and commented numbered 46 with 33 being against any increase at all and 13 for an increase to 25 horsepower. Several individuals represented large groups. West Bay boat sales, Navigation Company boat sales, Keystone Bass Buddies Circuit (600 members), all spoke in favor of the increase. Opposed to the increase were groups such as Muskies Inc. Cleveland chapter (1500 members), Pymatuning Yacht club, Pymatuning Lake association, Shenango boat club, Pymatuning Outboard Motor club, and Century boat club. Several issues were cited for reasons why opinions were formed, people opposed to the increase were worried about increased accidents on the lake, another increase if this one is to go threw, increased erosion, increased noise, and deterioration of the general aesthetics of the lake. People for the increase cited increased safety to get off the lake in a storm, increased revenue to the lake from a wider user group, increased economy in sales, changes in the dynamics of the lake from fishing boats to pontoon boats. Issues raised during the meeting were an inability to contact a ranger (or officer) if a violation is occurring, a need for increased boater safety and education classes, a need for more officers and patrols, and not enforcing current laws by checking for violations of the 10 horsepower limit that currently exist by pulling peoples motors and seeing who has changed their stickers. A question was raised as to how many deaths and accidents had occurred on the lake last year and I reported that there were no deaths and 12 accidents or swampings most of which occurred due to improper loading or overloading. Written comments are being taken up to 11/29/2002 and then all the material will be compiled along with the written transcript from this meeting and that in turn will be presented to the legislators if they are going forward with an increase. If you want to comment you can send me your message and I will print them and take them to the park. My E-mail is fishcop@alltel.net

CENTRAL ERIE / WCO TOM EDWARDS & DWCO BRYAN BRENDLEY
Perch: Still spotty on the Bayfront at the public dock and S. Pier have patience and determination.

Crappie: Finally saw some crappie caught at the Viking/Landsdowne area.

Steelhead: Nice run in 4-mile behind the Lawrence Park Fishing Club.

EASTERN ERIE / WCO MARK KERR
EAST COUNTY TRIBUTARIES:
Due to this past weekend's rain and snow, both Sixteen & Twentymile
Creek(s) are running a bit high, however color hasn't been too awful bad.
Twentymile has begun to receive more Steelhead, after their almost
'magical' disappearance act of the last week or so. Good concentrations of
fish were present this weekend near the mouth and, given the attention that
anglers have been paying to its southern reaches (I-90 through
'Snakehole'), it would appear as if these little critters are finally
making a concerted move towards the New York State Line. We observed no
less than 12 anglers playing last weekend through this southern stretch;
only one fish was seen on a stringer, but the folks sure seemed to be
having fun. Two of the majority choices of this week seem to be live
minnows and egg sacs. Throughout today, 11-19-02, we received light to
moderate ... well, let's say 'drizzle'. If things calm down over the next
day or so, conditions should be quite pleasant by this next weekend.

FRENCH CREEK WALLEYE:
Glad to be off that heavy subject above. Guess what?... Seems the're
starting to catch Walleye again along many reaches of French Creek. As
usual, the hotter spots seem to be at the mouth(s) of Woodcock and the
Conneauttee (Crawford County); and, in addition, north and adjacent along
SR 19 from the Crawford Line through the junction with LeBoeuf Creek. Also
you may want to try just south of the bridge on Himrod Road; seems there's
a 'monster' of sorts lurking thereabouts. I've had numerous reports of
many lines being taken clean through. No sightings yet, but we'll keep you
posted.

Forecast:
Wednesday: Cloudy. High near 50F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday night: Cloudy skies. Low 42F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday: Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers developing later in the day. High 49F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Thursday (24 hours): Showers developing by evening. Highs in the upper 40s and lows in the low 30s.
Friday (24 hours): Rain and snow showers. Highs in the mid 30s and lows in the low 30s.
Saturday (24 hours): Overcast. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the mid 30s.

Anglers enjoyed tons of hookups and harvested many Angler Award Steelhead

Trophy Steelhead

A gun carried by a juvenile weekend suspect caused some tense moments along the stream. It was discovered in a pat-down after the four suspects denied having any weapons on them. Prior surveillance caused officers to suspect the presence of a weapon which luckily turned out to be a CO2 Beebee gun.

The Steelhead fishery is in full swing now. Fresh fish came in with the Sunday rains. Officers have been busy round the clock with several over-limit & netting violations as well as the usual landowner requests, snagging, littering, and parking violations. Even though it has been rather hectic and patience sometimes runs a bit thin, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many anglers that have voiced words of appreciation for our efforts either in person or via email. I guess it would be best compared to getting in that good nap in the middle of the day that erases the tiredness and allows you to continue your efforts refreshed. Thanks from all the Erie officers.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards & DWCO Bryan Brendley
Perch: A recent walk of the S. Pier checking perch anglers showed very poor catches. No person was even close to a limit and all were under 5 in the creel. Public dock was showing small catches also but the perch were definitely larger in size. If you want to catch perch and you have a boat head down towards the East side of the Erie Yacht Club for good results.

Bass: The bay is wide open for those willing to put the boat in. Recent weather has given us a couple of decent days with calm conditions and the catches seem to be pretty fair.

Crappie: I keep hearing rumors but nothing certain, people were observed fishing across from Cascade condos but they had just started when I had gotten there. If you have any good crappie spots and you don't mind sharing give me an email.

Steelhead: Cascade still shows no activity but that may have changed with the recent rains. 4-mile has good fish behind the Lawrence Park Fish Club and the pressure is fairly light.

Edinboro Lake: Still in the draw down mode for dam repairs.

Western Erie County / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake- Walleye are being caught with regularity now on the south end of the lake especially around the handicap point where we placed all the gravel beds this year. Almost all the activity has been limited to the south west side of the lake but fishermen tell me they are catching fish just about every time they go out. Jigs and minis are still the bait of choice and some sonar's are being productive as well. I have also checked fishermen at the spillway who informed me that they have been having limited success at the wall just outside the spillway using jigs. Perch are also being caught here and closer to the wire using jigs as well. Most of the activity here is taking place at night. Tipping your jig with a mini also seems to be a favorite trick of the trade for these guys who are having luck.
Conneaut Lake- White bass are hitting well now and they are running in fairly big schools. Luck for the sea gulls to flock to a certain area and start diving on the baitfish and that is were you want to be. The bait fish will be jumping out of the water as the white bass are under them looking for a meal. Cast into them with a shiny silver spoon or silver lure that represents a fish and you should have pretty good luck. You will need a boat though as they seem to migrate throughout the lake.

Conditions:
Very low and clear water conditions on all the tribs have provided a real challenge to area anglers. Many areas along the West side tribs are only knee deep with some sections only ankle deep. Fish are holding in the pools along Walnut, the Manchester Hole and up to the bridge on Millfair road. Fish are scattered throughout Elk Creek up to the Legion Hole in Girard and small numbers can be found up to Folly's End. Water levels are low enough to allow casting from shore in most areas to avoid spooking fish. 4 lb., and as light as 2 lb. line along with hooks no larger than the 14 to 18 range are all but a necessity to land fish. Anglers were having good success on lower Elk Creek on Saturday with shiners and single eggs. The Walnut Creek Access basin is very low but has been producing some great fish for the patient anglers with success coming in time blocks. The basin opening has thinned the upstream crowds considerably leaving nice elbow room. We have had a number of calm lake days, allowing anglers good fishing opportunities along the lakeshore at Trout and Godfrey runs.

Eastern Erie County / WCO Mark Kerr

Wednesday: Rain showers in the morning becoming more intermittent in the afternoon. Temperatures steady in the mid 40s. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Wednesday night: Cloudy with a few showers. Low 36F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Thursday: Showers during the morning, followed by partly cloudy skies in the afternoon. High 43F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Thursday (24 hours): A few morning showers. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the upper 30s.
Friday (24 hours): Cloudy. Highs in the low 50s and lows in the upper 30s.
Saturday (24 hours): Cloudy. Highs in the mid 50s and lows in the mid 40s.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards_& DWCO Bryan W. Brendley

Perch: Moderate catches taken from Public Dock on the Bayfront. N. Pier on Presque Isle State Park and Waterworks on the Park.
Crappie: Catches being reported from Marina Lake on Presque Isle State Park.
Steelhead: Nothing to report in Cascade walked it down to the Bay and not a single fish was seen.

4 - Mile has decent numbers behind the LP Fish Club.

Edinboro Lake has been drawndown apx 6 feet, haven't seen anyone attempt to fish.

Western Crawford County / Joe Russell

All east county tributaries are now showing signs of Steelhead presence. Best color of choice this week has been white, regardless of what you choose to use; followed by anything in black. Egg sacs, single eggs, wooly-buggers & fly sucker spawn have been producing well; additionally, good results have been obtained by using 4-6# test, with small hooks and a flouro-carbon leader.

SIXTEENMILE FISH KILL REPORTED:
Reports have been received regarding numerous dead Steelhead on Sixteenmile Creek. Although the causes of this kill are, at present, unknown, investigations are underway in attempts to determine its origins. More information is to follow as it is received.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS & DWCO BRYAN BRENDLEY
Perch: Lights catches being taken from the N. Pier on minnows and some small ones at waterworks. Bay should be heating up good for perch in the next few weeks.
Crappie: Some catches being taken at the marina on Presque Isle State Park. If you have the time check the lagoons, but be advised I don't have anything solid to report from that area.
Steelhead: Being taken from the N. pier and East and West pier in Presque Isle State Park. Still good number of fish up 4-mile behind the Lawrence Park Fish Club. Respect the clubs property by cleaning up your litter and others. A special thanx to Bill Blackman for providing the, "crappie" info.

WESTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO JOHN BOWSER

***Walnut Creek Boat Basin Opens for fishing this Thursday***
October 31 @ 4:00 PM

Erie Forecast:
Wednesday: Cloudy with a few showers. Temperatures steady in the low 40s. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Wednesday night: Showers in the evening, then cloudy overnight. Low 36F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Thursday: Mostly cloudy with a mixture of light rain and snow developing in the afternoon. High around 45F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precip 30%.
Thursday (24 hours): Late day rain and snow showers. Highs in the mid 40s and lows in the upper 30s.
Friday (24 hours): Snow showers. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the upper 30s.
Saturday (24 hours): Mostly cloudy and windy with snow showers. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the low 30s.

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL

Pymatuning Lake- With the onset of cold weather this week and snow today the Walleye fishing has started to pick up again. Several boaters could be seen fishing the south end down by the dam and they are reportedly having luck. Bait of choice seems to be minnies drifting but I have also heard good results are being had using sonar's and hot-n-tots. Average sizes seem to be between 16" and 20". Don't expect the number of fish that you would get in the spring time but the fish are still there to be had if you can spend the time and go after them.
Conneaut Lake- Not much activity to be seen here this week as a matter of fact in a weeks time I have only seen one boat out there fishing, and I didn't get a chance to find out if they were doing any good. Definitely a good time to come try this lake now that the recreational boating is pretty much over for the year. If you do any good let me know so I can include you in future reports.

The cooler water of Lake Erie has made for some fantastic steelhead fishing near shore the end of October.

Friday the 25th was, as another boat put it "PHENOMENAL". The frosty morning began off Trout Run with each pass yielding two to three fish. We were 5 for 5 before we lost one. Red was hot and these tackle-busting steelies were hitting hard and dancing on the water.

Many places were good from Trout to Walnut. The day ended 20+ for 35+ Shore anglers were also having a super day.

Saturday morning light rain and north west rollers started another great day. Action started slower but finished as Friday began. The silver bullets fought hard and continued to dance on the waters.

Friday was all steelies but Saturday some Coho made the cooler.

Another day of 20+ for 35+ makes for another fantastic day.

Lure colors Saturday were green, red and black.

Each passing cold front just makes the fishing better.

It's a shame the docks will be removed in a few days!!!!

Catching the fish by boat is super in it self enjoying the free space to fight your tackle-busting steelie.
Limit catches are very common.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS & DWCO BRYAN BRENDLEY
Presque Isle Bay:
Perch action is starting to pick up in the bay, these past few days have shown good catches coming from the East and West Pier in the park. Also off of the N. Pier they are starting to pick up a few Steelhead.

4 Mile Creek through 8 Mile:
4 Mile has fish up to the falls and 6 has a good number of fish 7 and 8 don't bother with. Rains should have helped with the extreme Eastern tribs.

Edinboro Lake:
Bass still producing at a decent catch rate and if you can get on the perch you should do fair.

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO MARK KERR
Erie Forecast"
Wednesday: Partly cloudy skies. High 48F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday night: Partly cloudy skies. Low 33F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday: A mix of clouds and sun in the morning followed by cloudy skies during the afternoon. High 47F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday (24 hours): More clouds than sun. Highs in the upper 40s and lows in the low 40s.
Friday (24 hours): Showers possible. Highs in the mid 50s and lows in the low 40s.
Saturday (24 hours): Few showers. Highs in the mid 50s and lows in the low 40s.

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL
Pymatuning Lake:
The walleye fishing is starting to pick up again with the water cooling off. The last measurement taken I believe it was at 59 degrees. Sonar's are supposedly what is working best right now in the deeper water and sizes have ranged from 17" to 23." The fall run is usually a lot less active than the spring run but after such a long stretch with no activity anything seems good right now. Water levels are still extremely low so boaters should beware of where they are boating to avoid hidden obstacles.

Conneaut Lake:
has been slow so far this week with very little or no activity to speak of so not much to report from there.

Conditions:
The tribs remain very low and very clear with the lack of rainfall. Forecasts over the next week are indicating several days of rain which should help. In the mean time, the best fishing remains close to the mouths mainly north of route 5. The Walnut Project holes are full of fish and anglers are doing well off the wall. White Maribou jigs twitched while floated under a bobber has been the hottest fish catching method. Elk Creek north of the access area to the mouth has been very productive with decent water levels. The lake shore at Trout and Godfrey runs is producing fish when the lake is calm. A few Steelhead are being caught in Presque Isle Bay..probably by accident this early in the season. The Bay is a great place to target Steelhead in the winter months, both by boat and on the ice. The Legion Park and the areas by the water treatment plant on Elk creek in Girard are holding some fish, but water levels are very low.

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO MARK KERR

As East County tributaries go, TWENTYMILE Creek is the primary producer. All tributaries are quite low and clear; and, just as the remainder of the county goes, rain would certainly be a blessing.
Crocodiles and Cleo's are still the best producers, with Power Bait and egg sacs following close behind. With calmer lake conditions, stream mouths' are producing the most catches. TWENTYMILE has fish dispersed from the mouth to approximately I-90; however, they are widely scattered.

EAST COUNTY LAKE UPDATE:
Perch are still being taken, during calm days, on the New York/PA Line in approximately 62 feet of water.

EATON RESERVOIR:
Walleye are occasionally being taken along the North shore, in the cove area about midpoint of the reservoir.

FRENCH CREEK:
With cooler temperatures arriving, French Creek is starting to produce more walleye catches. That area from French Creek's junction with the South Branch south through the Crawford County Line would be one section worth checking out.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / DWCO Bryan W. Brendley

Forecast:
Wednesday: Periods of rain. Temperatures steady in the low 50s. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall near a half an inch.
Wednesday night: Cloudy with a few showers. Low 41F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Thursday: Cloudy with a few showers. High near 50F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Thursday (24 hours): Occasional showers. Highs in the low 50s and lows in the upper 30s.
Friday (24 hours): Mix of rain and snow. Highs in the upper 30s with temperatures nearly steady overnight.
Saturday (24 hours): Partial sunshine. Highs in the low 50s and lows in the mid 40s.

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL

Pymatuning Lake-The Lake is still 2 feet low at this time do to lack of any sizable rain and quite a few of the boats moored around the edge of the lake are sitting high and dry on land. Duck hunting pressure after the first day has been really light with only the occasional hunter launching a boat and taking to the islands to test their luck. Remember if you are hunting on the lake all safety equipment has to be present and you have to be on the on the proper side of the lake for where your license is for. Unlike fishing where you are allowed to use a Pa. license to fish from an island, while hunting you have to have the correct state license. Fishing pressure has been extremely light on the lake this week possibly do to all the wind and cold fronts that have come through. The spillway seems to be picking up though with fishermen but I haven't been able to check any fish there yet.

Conneaut Lake- I received an E-mail from Roy this week who told me he thoroughly enjoyed fishing at Conneaut Lake and it was an interesting lake he wanted to find out more about, he also stated he got into some Bluegills around 35' and saw some Crappies taken by other fishermen. This is definitely the time of year to start hitting this lake, do to the decrease in boat traffic. Let me know how you do and I will mention you in future reports.

Steelhead are plentiful throughout the area although bigger runs and more fish are expected with additional rainfall. Overnight temperatures in the 40's and reasonable water levels, considering the lack of precipitation, have sparked additional incoming fish. The Project Waters at Walnut Creek have been producing lunker fish with 8 LB to 12 LB being common. Anglers are finding that light line and small hooks are a necessity to landing fish with any consistency. Steelhead are up as far as Route 20 on Walnut Creek and at least as far as the Legion Park Hole on Elk Creek. Lake shore anglers continue to have great success at Trout and Godfrey Runs. The Trout Run Marina is now holding a fair number of fish for anglers looking for shelter from the wind and waves.

Perch fishing should continue to be good weather and waves permitting off of Walnut Creek and the Peninsula Lighthouse.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards & DWCO Bryan Brendley

Perch: Still productive when the wind and wave action is cooperative. Try all the usual hot spots.

Bass: I checked some fishermen on the Bayfront and they said that everyone can fish the Steelhead because the bass are biting and they like the room.

Steelhead: Eastside tribs are running low and clear. Four Mile has some fish behind the LP Fish Club but not in the numbers that I had originally expected since the last rain. Six and Eight Mile are low and clear also with very few fish in Six and none in Eight.

A reminder to all Steelhead anglers, foul hooking fish and placing them on a stringer is an illegal act which will result in a fine if observed. Giving fish to fellow anglers counts against both anglers creels.

Rain is forecast in the upcoming seven day forecast. Hopefully this will bring up the East side tribs to a level which will sustain a decent run. Good luck.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake- With the opening of duck season on Saturday we saw an increase in small boat traffic. I wound up patrolling with a game officer using a small boat and checking the islands up north and I am very happy to report that out of the 20 or so boats that were checked only 2 minor violations were noted, it would appear that the message is getting out about the required safety equipment needed to boat on Commonwealth waters. Thank you all this makes our job much easier. Fishing activity has started to pick up and the water is cooling off, last night we had frost warnings so the fall run for walleyes though not as active as the spring run should be starting any day now. This is definitely the season for short notice on storms though so please keep your eyes to the sky and watch for them, also bring extra clothes and dress in layers to guard against HYPOTHERMIA. Wool works the best and even when wet it will still retain your body heat. I was also asked this week who monitors the marine radio for Pymatuning Lake and my answer is no one. If you have a problem the best bet is a cell phone and 911. Next month there will be a public meeting on the horsepower increase in Pymatuning held somewhere in this area, I will put the date, time, and place in future reports when I get them. This is your opportunity to voice your concerns or opinions over this issue and will be attended by myself, my boss, Ohio division of Watercraft, Ohio Parks and Pa. Parks management. No one has set anything in stone or made up their minds yet so I would strongly urge you to be there if you have an opinion on the matter because once it is changed it will be to late to do anything about it.
Conneaut Lake- Northerns continue to hit just about anything that is thrown in the water and are really being active around the weed beds in the back bays and on the North end. Bluegills are still being caught with regularity as well as crappies in the 10 to 12 inch range. Fish either the weed beds or around structure for best results and try tipping your jigs with a piece of live bait, worm, maggot, or anything that they can taste or smell seems to increase your chances

Eastern Erie County / WCO Mark Kerr

Sunday most were Male Coho.

The group caught the limit before 11:00 as the wind switched from the south to the northeast. These tackle-busting steelies were full of energy this day. Breaking lines, ripping the hooks off the lures and jumping for freedom was all part of it this day. Many doubles were battled but never more than one made the net each time.

The group had an excellent catch to loss rate this Sunday (11 for 16). Catching their limit was easy before lunch on red and black lures. The limit was just too heavy for all to be held in the picture. Fished the usually 5 to 10 feet depth.

The stream are low, water clear, lots of fish and a good many being caught.

Mouth of Trout Run was crowed Sunday with lots of fish caught from shore. An angler fishing out of a tube caught many fish.

Action on Sunday the 29th of September was fantastic. The nine fish pictured were only a small amount of the many hooked. The steelies are full of fight, reels sing and the fish jump in search of freedom trying to spit the hook.

Black and red shallow running lures do the trick trolled in front of the many streams. Walnut Creek and Trout Run have been the recent hot spots. Fished 5 to 10 feet depth all day.

The Steelhead runs continue with fresh rainfall urging them farther upstream. Elk has fish present at Legion Park while Walnut has them at least to Rt. 20. East side streams have little angling pressure and smaller amount of fish. Forecasted rains this week should make for a prime weekend.

Yellow Perch catches continue off of the point and northeast of Walnut. Best catches for all species are taking place in the mornings as a rule.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards
Forecast:
Wednesday: Scattered showers in the morning, then variable clouds during the afternoon with scattered thunderstorms. High 78F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Wednesday night: Partly cloudy with scattered thunderstorms. Low 63F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Thursday: Variable clouds with a chance of thunderstorms, especially in the morning. High around 70F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Thursday (24 hours): A few thunderstorms possible. Highs in the low 70s and lows in the low 60s.
Friday (24 hours): Showers possible. Highs in the upper 70s and lows in the low 60s.
Saturday (24 hours): Few showers. Highs in the upper 60s and lows in the low 50s.

Eastern Erie & Western Warren Counties / WCO Mark Kerr
STEELHEAD:
East county waters are beginning to show signs of increased Steelhead presence; however, water conditions continue at levels that are both low and clear. Twelvemile has minimal numbers present around the mouth, Sixteenmile is absent of activity & Twentymile has moderate numbers in that area from the lakeshore south through the iron bridge upstream of State Route 5. Reports indicate that your best opportunity for catches arise from fishing into the lake at the stream mouths’ and using spoons; best color combinations are blue/silver, green/silver and fluorescent orange/silver. Highest activity, at this time, is early morning as well as in the evening just before dusk.

Additional catches have been made using ‘power bait’ and egg sacs are occasionally producing results. One report indicates that a gentleman landed a Steelhead weighing in at 13# +/— while using ‘power bait’; additionally, that same report stated that a pink salmon, weighing 4 lb. 4 oz., was landed on Twentymile—this just misses that state record.

EAST COUNTY LAKE UPDATE:
Walleye, Perch, Steelhead & Lake Trout are still being taken in East County waters. Earlier in the week, charters reported catches on the South side of the mountain while trolling with spoons. Perch are still present in the Freeport area, taken at a depth of 49’ through 55’ of water.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake- The good news is the water is starting to cool off, the bad news is it still isn't cool enough for the fish to be biting really well yet. There was some electrofishing done by DEP over the last several days up around the stumps on the North end and some fantastic warm water species were taken including Bass and Crappie. The word they gave me is the only place they were able to find fish was right on the structure and after several days of shocking no Walleye were taken. Best guess is that most of the Walleye are in deeper water, primarily on the South end or in the channel off of Manning were it is cooler. I haven't been able to speak to anyone this week who has any luck here from a boat or land but I don't think it will be long if the cooler nights continue. The lake level remains at approximately 2 feet below normal pool despite the little rain we received at the end of last week.

Conneaut Lake- Northerns continue to plague fishermen here hitting just about anything that moves according to one fisherman I talked to today. Although most of them were sublegal some were in the keeper range however they were just fishing for fun. Panfish continue to do very well here as well with fishermen limiting out in about an hour on average. Check the weed beds and back bays for these guys if you are looking for a lot of action. Bass are also biting well this week primarily on the weed beds but along any structure as well.

Best fishing in the tribs west of Erie was by fisherman wading offshore by Trout Run.

Fly Fishing for Fall Steelhead in the Lake Erie
Tributary Streams

By John Nagy

As the water temperatures drop to 68 degrees F along the southern shoreline of Lake Erie and the days become shorter (in mid to late September), mint-silver steelhead begin congregating along the Erie tributary mouths. This initial steelhead movement is the beginning of a spawning run which closely mimics the migratory behavior of steelhead in the Pacific Northwest (the original range of Lake Erie steelhead).
When cool fall rains create silty run-off (that dumps into a relatively warm Lake Erie) it triggers a steelhead movement up the tributaries in the fall and the opportunity for the fly fisherman to catch one freshwaters most elusive and magnificent game fish.
Since most of the southern shore Lake Erie tributaries are normally low and clear, it is critical that they get run-off (from either rain or snow-melt) to both facilitate movement of migratory steelhead upstream and create more fishable water for the fly fisherman.
In recent years, consistent, early fall rains have been more a rarity than the norm on the Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York tributary streams. This has limited steelhead movements upstream in the tributaries with most action in the lower large, deep pools (and along the lakeshore). The exception has been the Cattaraugus River in New York which fish’s exceptionally well in the fall. This is due to a good water flow a result of a power plant dam release and substantial spring sources in a huge watershed that encompasses 436 sq. miles.
When heavy fall rains due occur, Pennsylvania tributaries like Elk, Walnut, Crooked, 20 mile, 16 mile and 12 mile Creeks are the place to be for great action for fresh run fall “chromers”. After peak run-off from rainfall or snowmelt these tributaries can quickly clear to fishable levels in a day or two depending on the tributary.
The Ohio steelhead tributaries of the Rocky River, Chagrin River, Grand River and Conneaut Creek can provide good action also in the fall, but are primarily a winter and spring run steelhead fishery (although they get there share of fall running Pennsylvania steelhead). This is due to the late running Little Manistee strain steelhead that is almost exclusively stocked in these waters by the Ohio Division of Wildlife (a small number of London strain rainbows are stocked also by the ODW).
During the fall, Lake Erie tributary streams are relatively warm (in the 45 degrees F plus range) making the steelhead very active and aggressive. They enter the tributaries looking for holding water prior to their spawning. In warm water run-off flows this means the heads of pools, pocket water, fast runs and chutes as well as the lower ends of pool tail-outs where the current flow picks up speed.
Steelhead will use these locations until the water drops below 40 to 45 degrees F (late October to early November) which forces them to seek slower current areas. Many steelhead at this time lose their bright coloration’s and begin to darken up which is a sure sign that they are maturing sexually and getting close to spawning.
Fly fisherman will find that a more dynamic approach in his presentation (as opposed to just strictly dead-drifting flies) can result in a surprising number of hook-ups in the fall. Stripping and jerking wooly buggers and streamers (on the drift and retrieve) through pools and runs can result in some incredibly hard-hitting strikes at this time.
Aggressive fall steelhead will actively move out of holding locations to chase and strike these flies with seeming abandon. These fish not only strike flies hard, but also fight hard; with drag screaming runs and cartwheel jumps not out of the norm.
A traditional downstream fly swinging technique (with either a sink tip or floating line) also works well at this time of year. This method is effective at covering large amounts of water such as the long, wide pools and runs of the Cattaraugus River in New York and the Grand River in Ohio. Popular swinging flies include wooly buggers, streamers and traditional wet flies and spey fly patterns.
As water flows cool down in late October to early November steelhead become more lethargic and less able to hold in strong currents. They seek slower current areas at this time and also seem to key in on drag-free presentations such as achieved with floating indicators and long leaders or strictly bottom-bouncing without a float. Effective dead-drift flies include egg patterns such as sucker spawns, glow balls, scrambled eggs and blood dots as well as bead-head nymphs such as princes, pheasant tails, lightning bugs and copper johns.
Fly equipment for the steelheading fly fisherman includes both traditional fly rods (stiffer, shorter blanks) for stripping and swinging flies and long, soft action fly rods. The latter fly rods allow for maximum line and leader control and mending when dead-drifting flies as well as big fish playing ability when using light tippets.
Fly reel selection includes finding a reel that has both a light-end setting with multiple fine adjustments and slow initial start-up inertia. Both these features help to protect light tippets from the surges and runs of fall steelhead. Large arbor fly reels are ideal for quick line pick-up (which comes in handy when a “hot” fall steelhead decides to come straight toward you after being hooked!)
______________________________________________________

Steelhead:
The tribs have dropped to very low clear conditions with long range weather forecasts predicting cooler temps for the end of the month. Fish will be moving mostly at night with the best chances for success at dawn or dusk. Fish are scattered throughout the Walnut Project waters and the Manchester Hole as well as lower Elk Creek although the biggest runs are still yet to come. The Lakeshore at Trout and Godfrey Runs are producing fish at night and at dawn. Low clear water and very line shy fish will dictate the lightest of presentations. Fly anglers should do well with fluorocarbon tippets. Conventional anglers will do best reducing line strength to 4 lb. and even 2 lb. fluorocarbon line at times. Very light floats and small baits such as sucker spawn flies and single eggs may be the ticket. Anglers are reminded again that fishing from the East bank of the Manchester Hole is not permitted nor is fishing the West side of Walnut Creek from the end of the wall North to the mouth.

Walnut Creek Boating:
Boaters have had success trolling and casting just off the mouths of Walnut Creek and Trout Run. Boaters are again reminded to "hug the wall" due to shallow gravel bars near the basin exit. Boaters do have the right of way over wall fishermen but very few are sounding their horns to alert anglers to retrieve lines. This jetty is the favorite of elderly & handicapped anglers and some cooperation on both sides will assure everyone has an enjoyable experience.

Trout Run Marina:
The Trout Run (Avonia) Marina will be open for business as usual on Thursday, September 26th. This is a great place to introduce youngsters to Steelhead fishing and is very convenient for the handicapped and elderly. Fishing the Marina (for a small fee) can provide sanctuary from rough wind and wave conditions. Food and hot beverages can be purchased at the Marina as well.

Perch:
Anglers are still slamming perch in big numbers weather permitting off of Walnut Creek and the Presque Isle light house in 50' to 55' of water. Perch fishing was good into November last year and this year appears that conditions will be as good.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS
Perch: Still good in all of the hotspots, get in on the action before the weather gets too bad.

Bass: Picking up in the bay, fish early.

Catfish: Still good in the early evening at the S. Pier.

Steelhead: Cascade has nothing to report. four-mile has some fish up behind the Lawrence Park Fish Club but no great numbers yet, check it out after another blast of rain. 8-mile unknown.

Edinboro: Recent reports are that the crappie are hitting fair on minnows but you have to find them, Perch are being caught but head for Lake Erie if possible. Bass anglers stated that they were having good results.

SEPTEMBER 28 DESIGNATED AS FISH FOR FREE DAY

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY/ WCO JOE RUSSELL
Pymatuning Lake- The lake is still low right, 2 Feet below normal pool, now do to lack of any rain and water temps remain high but some walleye are still being caught on the southern end by fishermen late at night, fishing from shore. Rappallas and lures that imitate minnows seem to be working the best. Bluegill and Crappie are still being caught along the edges and if you can find any structure to fish around. Live bait and small jigs are the hot ticket for these guys.
Conneaut Lake- A bass tournament was held here this last weekend by western Penn bassmasters and I was lucky enough to get there right at weigh in to get a chance to talk to some of the anglers from the competition. The big winner was Keith Kristoff with an impressive lbs. 7 oz. lunker that measured 21 inches. He said the secret to his success was in fishing the weed beds using lures that you could work the top 1 foot of water. His impressive fish was caught on a pumpkin seed rubber worm, but all the anglers were telling me worms and lizards on top was the way to go. They also mentioned that a "BOAT LOAD" of pike were caught during the day and they couldn't keep the pike off the lines. Some of the pike were legal but most were sublegal but that just means there will be plenty for next year. The water temp on Saturday was 71 degrees and the 18 fishermen that registered for this tournament told me they had a great day after the bad weather in the morning cleared out. Bluegills are also being caught in droves right now with fishermen telling me that they are catching there fifty in an hour just by fishing the weed beds. Small jigs and live bait are what they are hitting on here as well.

Thank you, I would appreciate this information

WALNUT CREEK ACCESS RULES & NEWS...

The recent high water has deposited debris at the exit from the boat basin and the end of the East Jetty near the creek mouth. Boaters should trim up the outdrives as much as possible and exercise caution exiting straight out into the lake.

Steelheadpalooza:
The 5" plus of rain this past weekend swelled the tribs enough to get the Steelhead season off to a great start. A good numbers of fish are in the Manchester hole and up to Rt. 5. Fish are also scattered throughout out the Project waters and throughout the channel. Fish are also up to at least the bend by the Access area at Elk Creek. The Walnut Access Area was jammed on Tuesday of this week with anglers weighing in a fair number of fish. Fish are also being caught at mouth of Elk Creek in the "Mudhole" area as well as along the Lake Shore at Trout and Godfrey Runs. All the local news stations were on hand through out the day on Tuesday to capture the fishing frenzy. Additional rain and cooler temperatures will be necessary to keep the fish in the tribs but for now they are here and the fun has started. With the tribs being heavily stained by the recent rain, anglers have been successful with the powerbaits and micro jigs. The tribs should be pretty clear by the weekend based on the long term weather forecast

Perch continue with record catches. Boaters hitting the school due North of Walnut had 3 anglers limiting out in 90 minutes.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO Tom Edwards
Weather Forecast:
Sep 18 Mostly Cloudy 82°/66° 10 %
Sep 19 Partly Cloudy 81°/66° 20 %
Sep 20 Scattered T-Storms 79°/58° 40 %
Sep 21 Mostly Sunny 77°/60° 10 %
Sep 22 Partly Cloudy 75°/57° 30 %
Sep 23 Mostly Cloudy 74°/58° 20 %
Sep 24 Mostly Cloudy 75°/56° 10 %

EASTERN-ERIE/WESTERN-WARREN / WCO Mark Kerr

TWENTYMILE STEELHEAD:
As of Saturday, 09-14-02, Steelhead, as well as a few anglers, were present at the mouth of Twentymile Creek. The rains we received on Sunday the 15th should certainly boost not only the activity but their numbers as well.

EAST ERIE LAKE UPDATE:
Perch—McCord’s Point through the W’s in 53’ of water

Walleye—Due north of North East Marina in 85’ through 105’ of water

Smallmouth Bass—Along the entire eastern lakeshore in 25’ through 40’ of water

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning lake-The water is about 3 feet below normal pool right now so it is making for difficult boating if you don't know where you are going. The good news is I have seen Walleye being caught after dark down off the dam from shore fishermen on rappallas. The key seems to be to wait till after dark when the water starts cooling down. Water temps are still up there during the day right now but hopefully that will change when we start getting colder nights. Jamestown/Turnersville boat access is open once again and what a great job they did. The dock is much nicer and easier to get in and out of your boat and they now have more ramp, I believe three wide. Stop in and let the park know what you think they appreciate good news once and a while.

Conneaut Lake-The white bass are feeding in schools and guys are having really good luck targeting them. I heard from one fisherman this week that if you watch the gulls and see were they are diving for the bait fish that is where you want to be. Just cast under them with something shiny that resembles a minnow and you will have luck. Perch, Crappie and Bluegills are also going crazy right now with several of the fishermen that I checked over the weekend telling me they could only stay out for about an hour before they limited out.

Steelhead:
Steelhead have been moving closer to shore as evident by the number of fish caught from the wall at Walnut and at the mouths of Trout and Godfrey runs. A "few" Steelhead have moved into the tribs (no big numbers yet) and have worked their way up to the Walnut Project waters. The Project waters clean out is complete and the holes look great. Even with the low water conditions the pools look deep and green. Needed rainfall and a week of cold nights should help make the Project waters a prime area. Long term forecasts for the next week indicate the possibility of rain and cooler temperatures.

Walleye:
Walleye have begun to scatter with limited numbers of fish being brought in. Charter captains familiar with the walleye patterns are still bringing in a few, but no big numbers. Best action was observed by the Ohio Line in 65'-70' of water.

Perch:
I think we've said it all. Fish are holding in 50' of water due north of Walnut Creek and north of the Presque Isle light house. Action has also been good just over the Ohio line (80.31.10 on the Loran) in 62' of water.

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY / (provided by North East Marina's Pam & Tim Truitt)

Perch: 55' of water 2-3 miles west of the marina. Minnows or nightcrawlers.

Walleye: 85' of water due north of the marina. 65' down.

Steelhead: 85' - 110' of water due north of the marina along the edge of the mountain. 75' - 90' down.

Lake trout: 130'-135' of water 85' - 110' down.

Bass: 25'-40' of water, suspended.

( WCO's Mark & Joe were experiencing computer problems & unable to submit a report this week)

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS

Perch: Continues to be a very good year in the previously reported areas N. of the Lighthouse. We should start seeing catches increase in the Bay in the upcoming weeks.

Bass: Nothing of note in the past week but that doesn't mean that they weren't being caught.

Catfish: S. pier is really producing some nice Bullheads and the occasional Channel Cat in the early evening (7-10 P.M.)

Walleye: Catches are modest 2-3 per boat but still worth a shot, if your luck is faltering go after perch.

Edinboro Lake: Some questions regarding the jelly fish like creatures can be answered with this response from Andy Shiels PA Fish and Boat Commission Biologist:
"Bryozoans are animals related to jellyfish and other primitive invertebrates. The animal itself is actually a colony of many individual bryozoans. The green color is due to the algae that also colonize the bryozoans. In fact just the name itself gives a clue as to the relationship between these two organisms; "bryo" refers to plant and "zoan" refers to animal. Bryozoans are usually attached to the substrate, often around submerged twigs or sticks. Sometimes they break away and then may settle wherever they come to rest. Breaking the colony up can result in new budding and growth and result in new colonies forming. They eat microscopic plankton and protozoans."

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO MARK KERR

Smallmouth Bass... From Archer's Field through the New York Line, in depths from
8' through 22'

Perch... In that area north of North East Marina in 50' of water.
WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL

Pymatuning Lake- The Lake is in sad shape right now for fishing, at nearly 40" down from normal we need some rain bad. A lot of damage has been reported lately by the liveries on the lake because people are tearing up lower units from not knowing where they are going. If you are unsure go easy it might save you some serious money in the long run. Some small perch and Bluegill have been caught from shore this week and Carp at the spillway but until the water cools off I am afraid that might be it for a while.

Conneaut Lake-The white bass have been being caught here lately and I have a tip from a fishermen, if you are targeting them look for the schools of minnows jumping out of the water and throw into that area, (they are jumping out for a reason they are being chased). Anything that resembles a minnow will work using this tactic and should help you in gain a few more fish for the creel. Bluegills are supposedly doing real well right now as well and they have been catching some with nice size.

Steelhead:
Signs of Steelhead season have been evident with high winds and waves and cool nights. Tributary levels are at all time lows and apparently adversely affecting the early exploratory runs of late August. Anglers have started fishing the trib mouths, especially at Trout Run, hooking an occasional jack or two but nothing of any size. Those that just can't wait might try the "Wall" at night at Walnut Creek. Glow in dark Cleos and the Power baits are good night choices. A lighted float can help detect those subtle strikes. Anglers trolling the East end of the First Trench have been nailing 10#'ers on N/K Spoons but nothing like the numbers last year. With a little cooperation from Mother Nature it won't be long.

Perch:
Wind and waves permitting, perch fishing just seems to get better and better. This past weekend saw countless anglers bringing in limits in only a few hours. The perch packs off the light house beach and Walnut creek numbered in the hundreds this past Sunday.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS
Bass: Good catches taken off of the public dock and Chestnut fishing pier.

Perch: Limits being taken daily at the usual hot spots N. of Lighthouse.

Walleye: Same story as last week spotty at best go for the perch.

Crappie: Fishing pier at Chestnut still producing some good size fish but not many.

Musky: 5,500 fingerlings were recently stocked in Presque Isle Bay.

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL

Pymatuning Lake-The water is still really warm this week so warm water species are still doing well, Bass Bluegills and carp are being caught in abundance if you work the edges and any available structure. Light tackle and jigs or live bait is definitely the way to go and don't fish during the heat of the day and get upset because nothing is biting, fish in the evening just before sun down and you will have much better luck. Manning boat ramp is once again open and operational with an all new A. D. A. accessible dock that is far better and much more stable than what was there before. Jamestown/Turnersville should be getting close to completion and will be open very soon.
Conneaut Lake-Bluegills and Bow fin are being caught like crazy here. Fish the edges of the weed beds and you will do well for Bluegills (nice size ones are being caught as well) using a small jig or live bait under a bobber. Bass are also getting caught but at a much lower rate than the rest of the fish. work rubber worms and lures deep around structure for these guys right now. Night fishing has picked up quite a bit with a lot of fishermen hitting the water and shores after sundown when the boat traffic has subsided and they are having luck.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards
Perch: Nice catches are still being taken when the lake is cooperating. Prime spots are north of the lighthouse, east of the cribs.

Crappie: First nice ones I've seen in a while off of the fishing pier at Cherry St. marina.

Walleye: Nothing good to report so I will not say anything.

Catfish: Still being taken off of the S. Pier in the early evening.

Smallies: Nice catches taken in the Bay.

Forecast:
Wednesday: Mostly sunny early, then becoming partly cloudy later in the day. High 81F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday night: Partly cloudy skies early then becoming mostly cloudy later at night. Low 69F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday: Cloudy early. Scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day. High 82F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Thursday (24 hours): Afternoon thunderstorms. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the mid 60s.
Friday (24 hours): Mix of sun and clouds. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the upper 60s.
Saturday (24 hours): Mostly cloudy with scattered thunderstorms. Highs in the mid 70s and lows in the low 60s.

Eastern Erie County / WCO Mark Kerr
Lake conditions have been pretty rough throughout much of the last week; however, here's a quick look at what we've got going on...

Perch:
Well, looks like they're back again! Anglers have been catching Perch again in approximately 46' of water from McCord's Point through Freeport. Many catches have been averaging 10"-12" in length.

Bass:
Try for these, suspended, in 25' - 40' of water in that same area as Perch as well as north of North East Marina.

Walleye:
'schools'... Give them a try in 45' - 50' of water throughout East County waters.
Many anglers have reported catches in the 18" - 22" range.
'deep water'... Look for these catches in 105' - 110' of water.

Steelhead:
Reports are beginning to come in referencing catches in 118' of water and at a depth of 65' below the surface. Baits of choice appear to be black/purple spoons as well as those which are chartreuse and chrome.

This morning the south west wind was stiff with three foot rollers out of the west. The first half hour was dead. Nothing! Very unusual after the past week or so.

The wind was slowly shifting to the west and increasing. A week cold front was minuets away. Rods were in hand, with a tight to the bottom jig, and then it happen with a light rain on the water.

Fish on!

One on !, Three on !, Four on ! , Three on !, Two on ! Four on ! ETC.

They just kept coming. Most were walleye, but the cats were big and full of fight along with those world class sheephead. Perch also were adding to the cooler. The usual junk fish of white bass, white perch, gobies and rockies were also on the hook.

Small mouth were also active adding to the excitement this morning on Lake
Erie.

The three ticket holders had their limit quick this morning of good size walleye!

Action on Saturday resulted in a good many walleye in the cooler and some of good size.

The early morning southwest wind brought Rory one of his best days on Lake Erie. This was also his fifth attempt to catch a walleye on a Lake Erie charter. The group was new to the "SEAWOLF" but caught on quick to the hands-on self fishing technique used aboard the "SEAWOLF" . Within minuets the jigging action paid off. The walleye started to bite and the rods were a bending. Crawler harnesses were the bait of choice tipped with a big crawler.

Rory not only caught his first walleye, but the biggest and also the most. This was one day he will never forget.

The hole group had quite a day on Lake Erie catching 24 walleye, smallmouth, perch, catfish and those world class sheephead.

The shoreline storms made for excellent weather conditions this day.

The week has seen many nice catches of walleye and smallmouth. Their is a lot of satisfaction in seeing youngsters catching their first walleye. The hole family had some good fishing.

First Trench Walleye

Good catch of walleye on the north side of the trench, These guys also caught 64 good size perch fishing for walleye. The perch just seem to be everywhere.

Yes mom, its my Walleye!

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY/ WCO TOM EDWARDS
Perch:
Nice jumbos have been taken over the last couple of days directly out from the lighthouse and west of the condos.& limits are the norm coming in to East Ave. launch. Nothing in the form of walleye seen taken in those areas.

Walleye: This year remains to be slow, but a few are being taken due north and deep, (85-95 ft.)

Bass:
The tournaments have really slowed down so I can't give good info on smallies but I would assume that east of the peninsula toward the cribs would be the place to go.

Catfish:
Nice cats being taken from the South Pier in the late evening, they are hitting about anything that is being thrown at them.

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO MARK KERR
Forecast:
Wednesday: A mix of clouds and sun, then a slight chance of thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 91F. Winds SSW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Wednesday night: Mostly cloudy skies. Low near 70F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday: Partly cloudy with isolated thunderstorms possible. High 82F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Thursday (24 hours): Slight chance of a thunderstorm. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the upper 60s.
Friday (24 hours): Plenty of sun. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the mid 60s.
Saturday (24 hours): Mix of sun and clouds. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the mid 60s.
West Nile Virus Info:
Pennsylvania Residents Should Report and Submit Dead Birds
1-877-PA-HEALTH

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL
Pymatuning Lake-
The walleye are hitting if you know how to get there attention. I checked several boats over the last couple of days and all had fish. The secret seems to be trolling Hot n Tots down deep, anywhere from 12 to 16 feet. The area straight across from the manning boat launch north of the causeway seems to be where all the action is. Bluegill and bass are still hitting and the water is still pretty warm, it was 84 as of Sunday the 11th. Jamestown/Turnersville ramp is closed now and is well under way with the much needed repairs and upgrades.

Conneaut Lake-
Bowfin have started picking up and are being caught more now. Bass and Blue gill are also being caught but not in great numbers. Just about anywhere on the lake is as good as any place else right now. The big thing right now is timing early or late before or after the boat traffic picks up.

The past week walleye fishing near shore has gotten much better.
Action on Monday was good near shore, Godfry area, all the way to the south side of the first trench.

Drifting around the perch fishermen in 50 feet yielded many nice size walleye.

The smallmouth were also present in the same area.

All my walleye trips continue to catch many nice size perch while walleye fishing. This day 33 made the cooler for a lake treat to go with all those walleye caught this day.

Fish were 40 feet and down.

WALLEYE

WALLEYE

BASS

WALLEYE

PERCH

BASS and JUMBO PERCH

WALLEYE

CROOKED CREEK STREAM IMPROVEMENT PROJECT PHOTOS - DONE 8/2/02

Building the Crooked Creek diversion dams

One of many completed diversion dams

Dan Pastore pitching in on his tractor

A cooperative effort on Crooked Creek

Staking the logs at Crooked Creek

Conditions:
The past several days the lake has been more conducive to surfing than fishing with waves peaking at 6 feet or more. Not to fear, as there is plenty of summer left for perching and walleye chasing. Last reports indicated good walleye catches off Godfrey Run (halfway between Trout Run and Elk Creek) in 34 to 40 feet of water. Small dipseys 75 to 100 feet back or flatlining 150' back has been successful at these depths. Worm harnesses in a variety of colors have been successful with most anglers sticking to purple, chartreuse, and watermelon.
Perch fishing continues to thrive with schools holding in 50' off the light house, condos, and due north off Walnut Creek. As we round the corner of the summer season anglers and boaters are advised to pay close attention to marine weather reports and official USCG severe weather announcements on marine band channel 16. Most boaters are aware that our weather patterns come from the west and are officially forecast by the NOAA weather service out of Cleveland. Forecasting weather in our area is in fact rocket science and one should never rely of hearsay or second hand information as a reliable source. As Summer blends into the early fall season, wind and wave conditions can change dramatically in a short time placing an inexperienced boater in jeopardy. When in doubt, head for shore.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards

Weather Forecast:
Wednesday: Sunny. High 72F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph.
Wednesday night: Starlit skies. Low 53F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday: Sunny. High near 75F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday (24 hours): Abundant sunshine. Highs in the mid 70s and lows in the upper 50s.
Friday (24 hours): Plenty of sun. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the low 60s.
Saturday (24 hours): Mostly cloudy. Highs in the mid 80s and lows in the mid 60s.

EASTERN-ERIE/WESTERN-WARREN COUNTIES

Eastern Erie County /WCO Mark T. Kerr
(814) 796-1378 [office] - (814) 673-4650 [cell]

Walleye—reported catches in the area of the mountain [42-16.250N & 79-57.200W, give or take] in 60’ of water. As well as just West of North East Marina in 95’ of water.

Perch—The boat pack was set in pretty heavy, on Sunday morning, North of Freeport Beach (Sixteenmile) in approximately 52’ of water. Of all the activity on the East-side this last week, Perch was the most sought after and most numerous catch.

Bass—Catch reports have been slower this week; primarily due, it is believed, to the recent abundance of Perch activity.

Kids enjoy winding these big walleye in as they twist and turn, dive and finally make the net.

The hump between the trenches has given up some nice walleye.

Steelhead have been present on the hump.

The western end of the hump was good early in the week for steelies and walleye.

Tuesday the 29th the fellows on the boat caught many walleye on the north side of the hump size here continues to be large. Following these big old walleye around is not easy but they are fun to catch and hunt down.

Tuesday evening right after the storm the shallow waters from Elk to Walnut were hot with action. The 30 foot level contained walleye and smallmouth danced on the calm waters when hooked. The smallies have been found in the shallows fairly often. The evening was cut short with another nasty storm.

Action on Wednesday: The guys on the boat caught a good many large walleye and lots of perch

Perch: good north of trout run in 50 feet many boats limited today.

Yellow Perch schools are hiding but a few are being picked up yet

Fishing Conditions:
This is the hardest time I ever had with this section... one boat brought in a limit of walleye and said they were in 90' of water. (guessing I would say they must have been about 20 miles out of Walnut at a 030 heading on the compass)
Yellow Perch are a bit spotty after the storm but 50' of water off of Trout Run is still probably the best bet to start fishing.
Steelhead were picked up with "Stingers" straight off of Elk heading north through the trench and up onto the "hump".
Unless you are strictly hunting for meat ... just enjoy the day & the challenge of finding them.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS

Weather Forecast:
Wednesday: A few clouds from time to time. High 86F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday night: A few clouds from time to time. Low 69F. Winds light and variable.
Thursday: Partly cloudy skies. High near 90F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph.
Thursday (24 hours): Partly cloudy. Highs in the low 90s and lows in the upper 60s.
Friday (24 hours): Partial sunshine. Highs in the mid 80s and lows in the mid 60s.
Saturday (24 hours): Partly cloudy. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the low 60s.

EASTERN-ERIE/WESTERN-WARREN COUNTIES / WCO Mark T. Kerr
(814) 796-1378 [office]
(814) 673-4650 [cell]

Fishing Update
Unfortunately, due to fickle East & Northeast winds as well as rough lake conditions and cooler lake temperatures, catches have been slow in coming since about Tuesday of last week. As the weather and lake conditions begin to improve we’ll be sure to keep you updated.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake-The lake is still pretty warm right now with temps in the low 80's so fishing is still real slow. I have had reports that some anglers are picking up walleye trolling "hot-n-tots" at the 14' to 16' depth at the south end of the lake but after checking numerous boats I have not seen any fish besides Bass and Bluegills. That's not to say they are not catching them I just haven't seen them. If you are going to have any luck at all you are definitely going to have to go deep. Jamestown/ Turnersville boat ramp is closed as of yesterday the 29th of July and will remain closed for repairs for the next 6 to 8 weeks. The good news is Manning boat ramp is almost done and should be opening soon.

Conneaut Lake- Bass and Bluegills are still doing well here and are being caught regularly. work the back bays and weed beds for the most luck and go with lighter tackle for the Bluegills to have the most success. Early morning or late at night is still your best time do to boat traffic so keep that in mind when planning your trip.

Bass:
Smallmouth fishing is still very productive in the bay as well as from the channel to six-mile CK.

Perch:
Water depth is still about 45-55 feet off of Seagull Point and east of 4-mile.

Walleye:
Fishing is fairly consistent in apx 65-75 ft of water due north of the Lighthouse.

Channel Cats:
Are being caught off of the S. Pier in the evening hours. One angler reported 9 hook-ups in one evening with some very good sizes.

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO MARK KERR

Lake Trout:
Being caught in 135' of water at a depth of 65' due North of North East Marina

Walleye:
In 103' of water at a depth of 40' between McCord's Point & Freeport and in 130' of water to the northeast of the marina. Both places report black & purple worm harnesses are the best lure choice.

Yellow Perch:
The 45' water depth off of Charlie's Boat Livery are producing perch. Walleye are also being landed in this area ranging from 18" to 21".

Smallmouth Bass:
The hotspot is 18' of water from McCord's Point west to the "Triple W's"

WESTERN ERIE COUNTY / DWCO RANDY LEIGHTON

Conditions:
Perch fishing continues to be good although catches vary from day to day. The type and availability of minnows continue to be a factor in catch numbers. The largest school of perch remains just west off of Walnut creek in 48 to 50' of water. Average sizes are 8 to 14" and many are tipping the scales over a pound. Walleye action has begun to peak with good number of steelhead being brought in along with the walleye. Several nice "kings" were brought into the Walnut Creek Access Area this past weekend. Trolling spoons for walleye will often net the bonus steelhead or King.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake- The lake is getting very warm now with the lack of any consistent rain and the very warm days so walleye are all but shut down right now. If you do manage to find one it is going to be deep and probably towards sundown before it will hit. If however you are just looking for some fun fishing or action for the kids I would suggest Carp at the spillway with dough balls, or Bluegills at just about any place around the lake. The best time with these guys will be had on light tackle and with small jigs, and who knows if you get enough of them you can have some pretty good eating.

Conneaut Lake-The warm weather has not affected Conneaut lake as bad as pymatuning because it is spring fed and so much deeper but it has slowed fishing down. Bass and bluegill are still the fish of the hour here and guys are telling me they are still hitting if you catch them at the right time. Early morning and late evening after boat traffic has died down will work. fish just about everything you have until you find what work then keep using it. The fish this time of year are getting real picky so you have to find what works. Small jigs tipped with some bait for the bluegills was the hot ticket this last week and spinner baits seemed to work for a few of the bass fishermen but they even said it was slow.

Perch have been best targeted northeast of the light house on Presque Isle and north west of Walnut Creek in 45 - 50' of water. Good Walleye action has been reported in 60 to 65' of water north of the light house and along the South edge of the first trench west of the Walnut Creek Access Area.

Local tip:
Can't promise this works, but several local perch anglers swear that a white trout worm (yes the kind seen on the tribs during Steelhead season) cut in half will make and excellent substitute for a live shiner on a perch rig. It also eliminates constantly rebaiting the hooks.

EASTERN-ERIE/WESTERN-WARREN COUNTIES
WCO MARK T. KERR— (814) 796-1378 [OFFICE] & (814) 673-4650 [CELL PHONE]

WALLEYE & STEELHEAD: Both are being taken due north & North-North-East of North East Marina in 105 through 130 feet of water. Walleye seem to be located in the upper-30 feet and Steelhead are approximately 45 through 50 feet down.
Anglers are doing well on black/purple worm harnesses with ‘crawlers’, purple ‘Crystalina’ Plugs- fished 130’ back with purple ‘divers’.

LAKE TROUT: Throughout East County waters in approximately 130’ of water and fished at a depth of 75’ down.

SMALLMOUTH BASS: Contacts & reports indicate that the Smallmouth action has exploded in that area from approximately Twelvemile through North East Marina and within ˝ mile from shore.

PERCH: They're still present within East County; however, the activity has begun to drop-off. Anglers may wish to try their luck in that area immediately surrounding North East Marina and, additionally, from Eightmile (Shade’s Beach) east towards Fourmile & in the general location of the ‘cribs’.

LAKE STRATIFICATION: At present, East County lake stratification appears to be setting in at 48 to 53 feet. Take it for what it's worth and use it to whatever advantage you can.

Western Crawford County ... WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake-The lake continues to warm up this week with hot sunny days and no rain in sight, the water temp is ranging from high 70's to low 80's. This is unfortunate for walleye fishermen however the Carp fishing has become fantastic. Just about any where on the lake if you have a dough ball you can find a carp, especially around the spillway area. Bullheads and Channel cats are also picking up with a lot being caught from the handicap pier on the north end of the lake near Linesville marina. The key to fishing these guys are very late at night and using a good bait (chicken livers seem to be a favorite). Bass and Bluegill are still being caught around the lake at just about any place you find shore line structure, the best time being early in the morning or late in the day. Manning boat ramp is also currently closed and under construction so if that is you ramp of choice you will need to make other plans. They should be done in 5 to 7 weeks and will then be moving to Jamestown to do upgrades there.
Conneaut Lake- Bass are hitting well here also with largemouth's and Smallmouth being taken around most of the docks. and some have been getting lucky fishing the edges of the weed beds at the north end of the lake near our access ramp. A large rubber worm or lizard seems to be working well fished with a weight in front of it will work really well. I am told that a slow retrieval and allowing it to sink to the deeper water where the fish are seem to be the key. Early morning and late evening are also the key to having any luck here at all. White bass have been hitting well this last week also so you may hook into one of them as well. Bowfin are starting to pick up again as well with a few fishermen telling me they caught them, just remember they need to be immediately released to the water unharmed. They are a candidate species in Pennsylvania for the Threatened and Endangered Species List and need to be protected.

Pictured above Lori caught a nice 8.75 pound 29 inch walleye. Felt good to set her own line and fight this big fish from the depths. Just after the picture
was taken, Then it happen the rod just bent over and Lori held on.

The fish pulled side to side and up and down. Then this 12.25 pound 30.5 inch monster showed its colors. Walleye!!! and what a walleye it was. Hitting a watermelon harness was its down fall with Lori on the other end of the line. The slow forward drift/troll allows for some real walleye fighting. Don't let anybody tell you a walleye don't fight.

The family had a good day on the water with lots of good memories.
Lori had the touch setting her lines and caught most of the fish.

Water temp today was 73 degrees

The past week fishing was exciting with good catches of walleye and perch.

Each day a good many big perch made the cooler while walleye fishing. They just seem to be everywhere. Just some places have more. It's not unusual to end up with 15 to 40 perch in the cooler to go with the walleye for appetizers.

Most of the early week fishing was 5 miles north of the condos. The mid week blow just moved the fish north.

Ladder added to Walnut Creek Basin

Great boating weather the past week.

Yellow Perch & giant Walleye are making for the start of a great year on Lake Erie

Nice giant walleye.

Perch:
Perch fishing has slowed up lately, but there are still limits being taken east of Presque Isle in about 55 feet of water and due north at about the same depth.

Walleye:
The pack still seems to be due north of the lighthouse off of Presque Isle in about 60 feet of water and not too far away off of the condos.

Western Erie County / DWCO Randy Leighton
Conditions:
Perch action continues to dominate the area fishing news. Four and one-half miles due north of Trout Run in 48 feet of water is the most recent hot spot. Area bait shops have been doing their best to keep up with the demand for shiners. Most of the shops have been running out by mid-morning on the weekends. Fathead minnows are readily available and will work nearly as well. Large shiners can be cut in half or even thirds to increase your bait supply. The eyes from the perch you have caught also make great bait. Many anglers from out of town are bringing their own shiners.

Walleye:
Walleye action has been increasing daily with more fish being brought in from the trenches. Willowleafs and stinger spoons are hooking them. Lake Erie water temperatures have finally reached the high 70's. This should continue to activate the eastern Walleye migration to our area.

Several nice catches of Rock Bass and Catfish have been noted off "the wall" at the Walnut Creek Access Area.

EASTERN-ERIE/WESTERN-WARREN COUNTIES / WCO MARK T. KERR
PHONE: [OFFICE -- (814) 796-1378/ CELL -- (814) 673-4650]

INLAND BASS OPPORTUNITIES:
Eastern-Erie County offers some excellent inland Bass fishing opportunities for anglers wishing to ply their luck. Many of these areas have been reported in the past, however, it never hurts to refresh your memories from time to time.

SEIGEL MARSH (SGL 218)- Those impoundments located in the southwestern portion of the Game Lands [East of Barton and North of Turner Road(s); Greene Township] offer excellent habitat in the form of aquatic vegetation and flooded timber.
These impoundments are located on Game Lands. Therefore, access is walk-in-only and regulations prohibit the use of motors (including electric). Additional regulations regarding the use of watercraft on SGL impoundments may be acquired by calling the Pennsylvania Game Commission's Regional Law Enforcement Headquarters at (814) 432-3187.
Top water lures, tube jigs and live bait appear to produce the best results.

UNION CITY RESERVOIR (PFBC ACCESS AREA)- This reservoir is located off SR 6 (Union Township), approximately two miles East of the junction of SR(s) 6/8 (borough of Union City).
Recent angler contacts have shown the best areas of attack to be along the eastern shoreline and within the East Cove. The majority of harvests are occurring in less than eight feet of water. Additionally, most catches are within the 14- to 16-inch range (Large-mouth).
Rubber worms are still producing catches, however, I wouldn't hesitate in using your favorite lure or live bait of choice.
This access is governed under PFBC property regulations; additionally, as this impoundment is a domestic water supply reservoir, the use of motorized watercraft (including electric motors) is prohibited.

EATON RESERVOIR (BULL DAM) [PFBC ACCESS AREA]- This reservoir is located adjacent to Black Road and straddles both North East & Greenfield townships. Easy access may be obtained by traveling SR 89 until reaching the recently built race track (South of I-90/North of I-86), then travel east on Rich Hill Road until reaching the 'T' intersection (approximately two miles). At this intersection turn left, onto Black Road, and head north for approximately ľ mile; the reservoir will be immediately to your right.
Recent angler contacts have shown harvests to be light. Don't be fooled, however, this impoundment holds good numbers of bass- many in the four and one-half to five pound range.
This access is governed under PFBC property regulations. Electric motors ARE PERMITTED.

LEBOEUF CREEK- This waterway, from its headwaters at the Lake LeBoeuf outlet until its junction with French Creek, over three miles to the south, holds respectable numbers of Small-mouth Bass.
Access is best gained by use of a canoe with the prime launching point being at the SR 19 bridge (South of the SR(s) 19/97 split, located just outside the southern limits of Waterford borough). Retrieval is best accomplished at the SR 6 bridge, which is located along French Creek approximately two miles south of its junction with LeBoeuf Creek. All totaled, this canoe excursion is approximately six miles in length. Rapids, in general, are not a problem; however, this area holds numerous deep pools and 'strainers' are to be expected.

FRENCH CREEK- SOUTH BRANCH (Trout & Walleye):
Reviews of the 'Fisherie' discussion board (Northwestern PA) have shown angler requests for both Trout and Walleye information regarding the South Branch of French Creek. Hopefully this snipit will help address those requests.
Having its source northeast of Spartansburg, approximately two miles inside the Erie County line, the South Branch of French Creek has an overall westerly course which meanders just outside the Corry limits and through Union City before joining with French Creek (proper) a little over three miles west of the latter's location.
His stream is listed by the PFBC as 'Approved Trout Waters' and is stocked with PFBC trout for over 12 miles [Washington Street (west of Corry) through the Union-LeBoeuf Road bridge (west of Union City)].
Numerous choice spots exist for the trout enthusiast, even into the 'dog days' of Summer. Those sections of stream adjacent to Riley-Siding and O'Neil Road(s)- extending downstream through Blystone Road [Eastern limit of Union City], generally, keep cooler temperatures and contain good numbers of hold-over trout.
As for Walleye… well, there are a few still around-primarily in that area extending West from the Union-LeBoeuf Road bridge through the junction with French Creek and then upstream along the latter's course. My local sources, all who have been fishing that area since before I was around and some even before my father came to be, say that both Walleye and Muskellunge were much more prevalent (in the area of the South Branch/French Creek junction) a generation ago. Additionally, if you're looking for Walleye and the like, you may want to try along French Creek (both upstream/downstream of the Flatt Road) through it's junction with LeBoeuf creek and then downstream along the former through SR6. Good luck!!

LAKE ERIE WATERS (EAST COUNTY)…
WALLEYE:
Walleye are being taken in all areas surrounding North East Marina. Hook-ups are occurring in 105 feet of water, with the upper 30 feet being the target zone. Planer boards and big dipsies are working well.

STEELHEAD:
Harvests are occurring NNW of North East Marina in 105-110 feet of water and approximately 52 feet down. NK's and Stinger Spoons (black/purple & chrome/blue in color) are producing well.
BASS:
Bass are being taken from Freeport (Sixteenmile) and the "W's" in approximately 18 feet of water. Tube jigs and live bait are choice at this time.
LAKE TROUT:
Lake trout are being taken in East County in 110 feet of water at 55-60 feet down. Chrome colored spoons appear to be producing the best results.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell

The first three days of last week Steelhead were on the line each day.

The steelies could be found along the south side of the first trench.

Walleye catches have been averaging in size of 20 to 26 inches with an occasional one up to 31 inches.

The smallmouth still can be found near shore with the majority of the big ones now in deeper water on the west side of town. East side still good fishing close to shore.

Perch fishing is fast with many limit catches daily north of walnut creek 49 feet. Many boats are limited by 9:00 am

The numbers of perch caught eash day while walleye fishing has been record breaking with most being jumbo size perch.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards
Perch:
Fishing for perch is still fair to good from East Avenue to 6 Mile Creek with daily limits being taken. The South Pier is producing fair numbers of perch for the patient angler.

Walleye:
Walleye fishing east of Presque Isle seems to be running a little deeper than the western portion of the shore. Depth is ranging from 60 feet due north of the lighthouse to 110 feet north of North East.

Bass:
Bass fishing is still very productive in the bay, mainly toward the entrance to Presque Isle State Park.

WCO Mark Kerr / East Erie County
Perch are being taken in 45 to 55 feet of water from Archer's Field to McCord's Point. Shiners are in short supply although most reports indicate that fish are hungry enough to take fat heads.

Walleye are being caught in 75 feet of water from McCord's Point east through due north of North East Marina. The walleye are being taken in the upper 30 feet of water. Anglers are also doing well for Steelhead in the same areas at a depth of 50 feet.

Bass... Best bet is in the Freeport area in 12 to 30 feet of water. Tube jigs in chartreuse, pumpkinseed and silver bounced off the bottom are working. Hot n' Tot crank baits are doing well in the shallower depths with spinners working in areas where the fish have cover available.

estern Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake: The water is warming up and the fishing has slowed down somewhat, at least for walleye anglers. The warmwater species, however, have gone mad with Bluegill, Bass and Crappie hitting well. I've been having good luck fishing a night crawler under a bobber just about sundown. That's managed to keep a 5- and a 9-year-old entertained,. (For those of you who have kids, you know what I am talking about -- if they aren't hitting, they are not interested.) If you want to have fun, just use lighter tackle and an ultralight, pound for pound the Bluegill has to be the best fighting fish there is. Perch have been hitting along with nice size Crappies near the mouth to the new marina in Jamestown. The dam is now open as well and construction has been completed. However, the bad news is the Manning boat ramp will be closed starting July 8 so alternate ramp choices should be made.

Conneaut Lake: It appears that the dead carp have slowed down and things are returning to normal. Bass have been doing exceptionally well here with one angler telling me he caught the biggest bass he had ever caught in his life this last week on a tube jig. The edges of the weed beds and any available structures are the place you are going to have luck and just keep throwing lures at them till you find what works that day. Bluegill also are being caught in large numbers on the edges of the weed beds and especially around Heudikuper Bay. Small jigs under a bobber that are tipped with a piece of worm or maggot are what seem to be producing. Accidents also have gone through the roof in the last two weeks with three serious boat accidents. The most recent was a jet ski running over the head of another jetskier after he had fallen in the water. Luckily, he only recieved minor lacerations and refused treatment, but it could have been worse. There seems to be quite a bit of confusion as to what a reportable boat accident is. Guideline may be obtained by contacting any WCO, regional office or on our Fish and Boat web site at www.fish.pa.us

Perch:
Perch fishing has been slow during the last couple of days but we expect it to pick up again due to the current weather conditions. The packs have moved to 25-30' of water east of the Sunoco cribs. Packs are also forming in about the same depth just North of the lighthouse.

Walleye:
Walleye packs are forming for the first time this year. Latest checks of boats have shown them in 50' of water apx. 2 miles due north of the Lighthouse. Success has come in the form of downrigging and planer boards with some decent catches of big eyes.

Northern Pike:
Pike are still being taken in the bay, mainly by those fishing for smallies, topwater lures are working best.

Many boat accidents occur from not maintaining a proper lookout. While operating a boat be aware of your surroundings including the area of operation and of course the operation of other vessels around you. Don't be a statistic.

There will be a team of local Department of Health persons sampling Bullheads in Presque Isle Bay this week, results will be posted as they come in.

Western Erie County / WCO John Bowser & DWCO Randy Leighton

Fish Kills ... have been observed the entire length of the lake this month. Post spawning stress, rapid temperature changes, oxygen depletion from plant growth, and more recently, botulism. Patrols have noted a large number of Mud Puppies floating on the Eastern side of Lake Erie. Lake Erie Research Unit & the Erie County Health Department are investigating.

Yellow Perch & Smallmouth fishing have been phenomenal and the Walleye & Steelhead are being landed by boaters as well. Looks like a great summer ahead. Be sure to take the time to check your safety equipment before you go out after these tasty fish. It's a lot cheaper if you do it than if you come in off the water & an officer does.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake-The fishing has slowed quite a bit now with the lake warming up but the smart angler have taken to targeting the fish later in the day to have a little success. Bass (white and Smallmouth) have been doing really well off the causeway towards sunset and right after dark. Minnie's and worms seem to be doing really well. The fish for the weekend though was all the muskies that were caught around the Jamestown beach area trolling with large lures. One fisherman stated when checked that this was by far the best year he had ever had and if we wanted to see one we should wait around only a couple of minutes because he would have another that quick. Crappies and Bluegills are still doing good in the shallows especially around structure however if you want to have fun catching them think light tackle and rods. Don't forget as reported earlier the Manning boat ramp closes this week for upgrades and will be closed for 5 to 6 weeks and after that the Jamestown launch will be done, if you use these ramps usually you need to make alternate plans.

Also to give the thrill of the catch was a large catfish. 29 inch 10+ pounds.

This is a good time to night fish for the cats in the first hole on Elk Creek. Some huge cats come in thru the 4th .

Water temp 61 degrees

Thursday action was mostly the same with some nice fish caught. Soft shelled crayfish worked best. 15 to 25 feet was the hottest.

The lake was mostly flat all day. The larger female were beginning to show signs that the spawn was on.

Saturday the 22nd a post spawn bite was on. The morning was flat and the fish were biting. Here again soft shells worked great catching the big ones.

Late morning the breeze began making a great drift but it seemed to shut the fish down.

Noon the lake went flat and the bite was on until we quite.
Depth was 25 to 9 feet.
Water temp 65 degrees

Water temp 61 degrees

Thursday action was mostly the same with some nice fish caught. Soft shelled crayfish worked best. 15 to 25 feet was the hottest.

The lake was mostly flat all day. The larger female were beginning to show signs that the spawn was on.

Saturday the 22nd a post spawn bite was on. The morning was flat and the fish were biting. Here again soft shells worked great catching the big ones.

Late morning the breeze began making a great drift but it seemed to shut the fish down.

Noon the lake went flat and the bite was on until we quite.
Depth was 25 to 9 feet.
Water temp 65 degrees

Conditions
Lake temperatures have struggled to reach the mid 60's making the West Basin migration to our area later than usual. Perch continue to school, but are moving around. 25' - 40' of water due north of Walnut Creek. Similar depths north of Seagull Point continue to produce. Anglers have been having fair to good success from the shore at Walnut, Chestnut Street and the East Avenue launches. Bass action has been great with regular bass season in effect. Trolling the lake shore at various depths until they are located and then jigging when you locate them is most productive. Tube baits and jigging blade baits have been hot. Walleye action has been sporadic but is picking up. Patrols this Tuesday noted Walleye in the 20" range being caught just east of Crooked Creek. The water was slightly discolored by the 6-8' waves the previous day so depths may increase as water clarity improves. Early Walleye target areas will be the "triangle" area east of the Ohio line and south of the Canadian line and along the second trench. Carp fanatics have been doing well in Misery Bay and the Lagoons area. These monsters can put up a great fight and are easy to catch. Strong line and a rod with a stiff back along with minnows, dead or alive and crawlers fished on the bottom are the ticket. Carp are the number one game fish in many European countries and have just started to gain popularity here. The weedy areas near shore in the Lagoons, particularly near the canoe livery at Presque Isle is a good place to try. ...rgl

CENTRAL ERIE / WCO TOM EDWARDS
(Tom was out of town for training so is acting as the guest weatherperson with the Erie Forecast))

Thursday: Sunshine. Highs in the mid 80s and lows in the upper 60s.

Friday: Isolated thunderstorms. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the mid 60s.

Saturday: Mostly cloudy. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the mid 60s.

Sunday: A few thunderstorms possible. Highs in the upper 70s and lows in the mid 60s.

Monday: Considerable cloudiness. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the low 60s.

Tuesday: Scattered thunderstorms. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the low 60s.
Wednesday: Partly cloudy. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the low 60s.

Thursday: Partly cloudy. Highs in the upper 70s and lows in the mid 60s.

EASTERN ERIE & WESTERN WARREN COUNTIES / WCO MARK KERR

UNION CITY RESERVOIR BASS:
The opening weekend of the regular bass season yielded nice harvests of bass from the Union City Reservoir. Plentiful numbers of Largemouth Bass were being taken in as little as 4'-5' of water. Bait of choice seemed to be none other than rubber worms. The majority of those fish caught were from 14-16 inches in length.

LAKE ERIE BASS (EAST COUNTY WATERS):
Bass are being caught in waters ranging from 8'-25'. Off those taken, many are juvenile males with some large females mixed in. Reports seem to indicate that the bass are still on the spawning beds.

EAST COUNTY WALLEYE:
Reports show that Walleye are beginning to show up in east county waters in some numbers. Try your luck in 50'-60' of water from McCord's Point on through the inside of the 'mountain', north of the North East Marina. North East Marina employees weighed one Walleye in today (06-18-02)that went 11#'s.

EAST COUNTY LAKE TROUT:
Lake Trout are still being caught in 110' of water, fished 90' down, in that area north of the 'mountain'. NK spoons (silver with green stripes) are still choice picks.

EAST COUNTY PERCH:
Yes, I said Perch in East County waters. Some are being caught in 28' of water just north of the North East Marina Walls, with the major school still moving east and located off Sixmile Creek and the Sunoco Cribs.

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL

Pymatuning Lake- The fishing pressure still seems to be going strong on the lake however the success rate seems to have dropped off slightly for legal walleyes. Most of the luck seems to be centered on the southern and western side of the lake with several nice keepers being taken from the pines area, the handicap point just south of Jamestown marina. I personally went out on the boat this evening (6/19/02) and used the fish finder in the area of the gravel beds that were just placed there and the number of fish in relation to other areas I checked was unbelievable. I saw large school of fish around most of the entire point and the gravel piles were definitely evident. Bass seem to be picking up in numbers and fishermen are picking up more of them from shore as well. The bait of choice remains night crawlers, with Minnie's and creek chubs not doing much at all. Bluegills and small perch have been picking up in the shallows however you have to find the structure that is holding them. My 9 year old and I had a lot of fun this evening with ultralights landing quite a few of these bait robbers on the south end around Ackerman Island and with an ultralight the kids think you have hooked a whale. I have also heard that some fishermen are having limited luck trolling Wallydivers and Hot & Tots in the north end near the stumps but as of yet I haven, to seen any fish from there. I also had reports of boats out of Manning catching numerous sub-legal 13.5 to 14.75 inch range which isn't really a bad thing because at least we know there will be some there for next year. I have included some tips to help you trigger a strike for bass now that bass fishing is picking up, hopefully you will find something that you didn't already know and turn your success around.

HOW TO TRIGGER A STRIKE. Some lures on some days may attract bass but not trigger a strike. There are no simple rules so you have to let the bass tell you what makes them strike on a given day. Experiment. If one technique is not working, try something different. Some days a plastic worm or lizard on a Carolina rig worked slowly is the best bass fishing to be found. Other days this just does not work. Maybe the bass are not actively feeding or they are not relating to the bottom. Some days bass seem to only look up. Try a faster moving lure like JERK FLASH, SOFT JERK or a FLASH RUNNER SPINNER BAIT run over the fish. Use an erratic retrieve. Make the bass react. The bass has to strike before this flashing thing gets away. Keep these lures even with or just above the depth the bass are holding. Give the bass something that is just too easy to pass up. Tie on a SOFT JERK OR FLASH RUNNER SPINNER BAIT and erratically let it fall right in front of the bass's nose. Work the lure and then kill it and let it fall just as it passes bass holding cover. Often bass only follow a lure but not hit it. Stopping the lure and letting it fall often triggers a strike. Try letting your crank bait or spinner bait pause for just a moment then start cranking again. This works very well just as the lure passes bass holding cover. If you cannot see the cover, just stop the lure every few turns of the reel. Often the pause triggers a strike.
Fishing Tips Complements of www.bassfishinglures.net

Conneaut Lake- Crappies and white bass are hitting really well according to one of the rangers from Pymatuning who lives over there. He says he is having luck just about every night after work so it might be worth a try before it gets to busy with the summer boat traffic. Evenings right before dark and early mornings are always best here. fish the edges of the weed beds on the north end for the best luck. Also a word of caution, Diquat was applied this week to kill some of the weeds so if you go you may have a problem locating you favorite weed bed. Jigs and Minnie's seem to be working the best so far.

PAN FISH EXTRAVAGANZA:
Anglers frequenting the Siegel Marsh impoundment (west of the junction of SR 8 and Barton Road, Greene Township) have been rewarded with excellent blue gill harvests. Many have limited out and fair numbers of those fish caught have been half the size of pie plates.

EAST COUNTY BASS UPDATE:
Anglers have been reporting bass hookups in as little as 10' of water throughout east county waters. Additionally, Twentymile Creek has begun to see large numbers of bass migrating their way upstream, already to areas south of SR 5.

BASS SEASON OPENS JUNE 15TH!!:
The opening of the regular bass season begins this Saturday, June 15th.
Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay & Peninsular Waters… 15" minimum size & 4 limit (combined species)
Commonwealth Inland Waters…
*12" minimum size & 6 limit (combined species) [through October 31st]
*15" minimum size & 4 limit (combined species) [November 01st through December 31st]

LAKE LEBOEUF WALLEYE:
High water levels have been causing problems for anglers at Lake LeBoeuf; however, with the levels beginning to recede it's a good bet that this lake will again begin to produce nice catches of walleye. We'll keep you posted!!

EAST COUNTY PERCH:
Few and far between much east of Sixmile Creek; however there have been some boats and sporadic reports of catches in the area around Eightmile (Shade's Beach). Average depth has been hovering between 22'-25' of water.

EAST COUNTY LAKE TROUT UPDATE:
Catches of Lake Trout are being reported due north of North East Access in 110' of water. MK Spoons fished at 90' down seem to be choice.
One fish was weighed in at 27#, just missing the state record of 27#-13 oz. At least 1/2 dozen fish have been weighed in at between 23-24#.
..................................................................................................................................................................................................................

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO Tom Edwards
Perch fishing is well under way at various locations on Lake Erie. The cribs east of East Ave. Launch are producing nice catches as well as right out in front of East Ave in about 15 feet of water. Persons are catching perch along the rock jetty of the launch as well. Late report in on limits being taken all along the shoreline in 8-10' of water from the Coke Plant to Sixmile Creek.

The South and North Pier are producing catches of Yellow Perch and Rock Bass for those without a boat.

Smallmouth Bass are picking up along the Erie shoreline but with increased results between Hammermill and Eight mile (Shades Beach).

Walleye fishing really hasn't started from the boats yet. One gentleman at Walnut Creek had a 6.5# one the other day.

WESTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO John Bowser & DWCO Randy Leighton

Perch have begun to school off of the point and in 25' of water due north of the Walnut Creek Access area. Anglers have been limiting on nice size perch in only a few hours. Small shiners on perch rigs are the ticket as usual. These early season perch seem to be fussy...accepting only live minnows and turning away from the dead ones. Shiners are in abundant supply and readily available at all the bait shops. Early morning hours or at dusk have been the hot times.
Hot Tip: One veteran angler, Jimmy Dallas, said the trick is to drop the bait to the bottom & wait 2 seconds, then drag it a couple inches & lift. He said that they are hitting so light that you can't feel them but if you follow this method you will score doubles.

Bass fishing has been good off Raccoon Creek with the best success coming in 10' of water using jerk baits. Patrols observed one boat landing their 42nd Bass of the morning using this method.
Elk Creek Access has Bass present akin to a Steelhead Run and 24 soft shell crabs will yield 24 Smallmouth. Most of these are in the 12" to 15" range but still fun on light tackle.

Walleye catches have been sporadic. The few walleye that have been caught are probably still "resident" fish with the big migration from the West still a ways off. A Delaware angler came in with an 8.75# Walleye this week but failed to share any info on the where or how.

Miscellaneous — A few Steelhead have been caught in the colder waters of the first and second trenches however catches have not been consistent. A number of nice catfish have been pulled out of the Walnut Channel.
WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake- The walleye fishing has picked up significantly recently with large numbers of fish being taken off the Jamestown main swim beach. Boats that start around the shoal just north/west of the beach and drift south to about Gum picnic area seem to be having the most luck. Worms (night crawlers) are still the bait of choice fishing suspended up off the bottom with a floating jig head while you drift appears to be the most productive. A fishermen and his buddy also showed me a stringer full of nice walleye taken up north around the stumps trolling walley divers so that may be another option to try. Shore fishermen are also picking up nice (16"-23" range) walleyes around carp point just north of the gate house to the handicap area where the new gravel beds were placed just south of Jamestown marina. Night crawlers continue to produce the most fish here as well. Perch and Crappie continue to be slow however some are being caught around the Islands on the North end. Minnie's or worms under a bobber seem to be working best for these. Work is to begin this next week (6/24/2002) on the manning boat ramp and access area. The entire project will last 5 to 6 weeks to upgrade this facility. During that time the ramp and the access area will be closed and alternate access areas will need to be utilized. After completion of that project the contractor will move to the Jamestown/Turnersville ramp/access area to upgrade it. I will let you know when this will take place when it gets closer. The project calls for a better dock system and making it handicap accessible, it will be a good improvement for all when finished and only a slight inconvenience while underway.

Conneaut Lake- I spoke with several fishermen who had quite a bit of fun catching Northern Pike and small Smallmouth over the weekend. Spinner baits were the lure of the day and the biggest producer. They did tell me though that on several occasions that they were waked and a couple of times they were worried about their safety. Unfortunately we can't watch every boat 100% of the time and be there around the clock. Should you run into this situation though get the bow numbers from the boat and as good of a description as possible and contact me and I will address the problem. You should remember though that unless you want to get involved and testify if charges are filed then there is not much we can do. I am listing ways to contact me below, and should you have a problem please feel free to contact me.

My phone numbers and ways to contact me are as follows:
CELL PHONE- (814)720-1246
OFFICE PHONE- (724)932-5661
REGION OFFICE- (814)337-0444 *Monday through Friday 08:00 to 4:00
E-MAIL - fishcop@alltel.net you will notice my e-mail has changed due to problems with not enough space with the other provider this email has no size limit so receiving mail should not be a problem.

Fishing success has been hard to accurately judge on the West Side due to the small number of boats trying it. Rough lake conditions and a cold spring that doesn't seem to end just doesn't have boaters enthused yet. Bass are in about 15' of water near the Ohio Border while the hot Yellow Perch are off of 4 Mile Creek.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards
Small mouth bass fishing continues to be productive in the area between Hammermill and Eight-mile Creek. Edinboro Lake smallies continue to be picked up in the early afternoon hours.

Perch fishing on the piers, North and South, has steadily been increasing with numerous limits for those who wish to put in the time. Boats launching from Lampe Marina at 5 AM have limits back at the dock by 8 AM if they have small shiners.

Large mouth in the lagoons are laying in wait for those who wish to enter.

Muskellunge at Edinboro Lake are starting to pick up. One angler recently spoke of a light morning of musky with success. I did notice a very large musky washed up on the shore line which probably measured somewhere in the mid forties.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell
Joe's computer went down from a triple hit of viruses. He should be back online next week.

Venango County / WCO Thomas J. Tarkowski
All spring stockings have been completed, and because of the high water
we had in late April and early May, there are exceptional numbers of
trout still in all the streams, especially the larger ones, like Sugar,
Sandy, Oil Creek and East Sandy. Caddis flies of various descriptions
are working well at times for Fly Fishermen, and Bait Anglers are doing
well with powerbait, live or salted minnows and red worms. Silver and
black Rapala's are producing some larger Trout in Oil creek, and the
Panfishing is picking up at Justus and Kahle Lakes.

French Creek and the Allegheny River water levels are both on the drop,
and the slight discoloration that remains should help the walleye
fishing pick up soon. Try larger baitfish for larger fish, and a
sensitive rod tip is always a big help.

The smallies could not be found in the 18 to 30 foot depth.

Moved in to the 8 to 12 and started catching small bass at a good pace on any size minnow and a few on tubes.

Continued to work east, the wind by now was dead and slowly shifting to the west.

At the moment of the shift the bite began with a 20+ incher.

Then a big bellied 19.75 incher 6.25 pounds. What a fish!

The fish just kept coming one after another. This was now a great day!

Then the second 20+ incher of the day made it's power jumping and diving battle to the net.

The fish were all of good-sized and many put on a good air show.

The day end up fantastic with west is best. Gobies green tubes and any size minnows working great. Very few boats out today. Mainly just us and the one in the background.

Best depth ended up 14 to 17 feet on the rocks. Snags were heavy.

Late morning gave no wind. Kept moving but the fish were still 14 to 15 inches.

Noon seem to turn on the big ones.

The power pull of a 20 inch 5.5 pound smallmouth is quite a thrill. Up and back down it goes until the net scoops it in.

Before we know it a 19.5 inch 5.75 pound awesome smallie was battled to the net.

Good all day action today!

Minnows large and small worked well
12 to 30 feet
Water temp:54

The hour or so before dark provided some non walleye action. Trolled for many hours in the dark with no action (7 to 20 feet near shore three to four miles both sides of Walnut)

At 11:30 PM, the wind began picking up briskly from the southwest, waves began building and it was getting cold.

12:30 AM The decision to quit in 10 minuets was made. Two minuets later the fire drill began. Walleye on! Got off!

Turned to go back through the same spot, hats flew and the wind wrapped us up with a huge tangle in the dark. The night was ended, but with a walleye on one of the non tangled lines as we drifted through the hot spot.

That after noon a decision to fish for smallmouth on the east side was made. Wind was calming from the northwest and the bass began to bite.

Continued to drift east with good results in the 20 foot depth.

Doubles began coming in like crazy.

The doubles were all big smallies hitting minnows. Big or small didn't matter.

Conditions:
Smallmouth fishing in Presque Isle Bay and along the shoreline east of the Erie Channel has been spectacular. Anglers targeting bass have been doing well close to shore off of International Paper in 12 to 15' of water. Caution should be used in shallow water anywhere along the lakeshore due to large submerged rocks and scattered wreckage. Fish in the 4-5 LB. range have been caught with 2 and 3 LB. fish being the norm. Salted tubes on weighted jigs are the bait of choice with pumpkin seed, chartreuse, purple, and the brown shades being most popular. Carolina rigs fished off the bottom will work well too. When the fish are finicky, try changing to your crank baits in chartreuse and silver. Rattle Traps (The weighted type) are a good all around crank bait and can be found in a variety of colors. (Patrols this Monday & Tuesday found anglers with 100+ Bass hookups in 15' of water close to the Ohio Line around 80:30.9 on the GPS.

Pike angling has been great. Not many fish put up a better fight pound for pound. Presque Isle Bay offers some of the best Pike fishing in the country with plenty of trophies waiting to be caught. Pike generally aren't too fussy...generally anything shiny will attract their attention. Silver flatfish lures and chrome rattle traps are great choices. Pike also love live shiners (the larger, the better) suspended under a float. Strong line or a steel leader is a good idea to keep their razor sharp teeth from snapping your line.
The area in front of the Chestnut Street launch and outside the Cherry Street Marina have been hot Pike spots.

Fish for Free Day - Saturday, June 1, 2002
Take a child fishing... the thrill of their first fish will have you remembered for the child's lifetime.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards
Smallmouth Bass are being targeted north of Hammermill and east to Shades Beach with some good success. One fisherman that I spoke with the other day stated that he had caught a couple in the 5 pound class.
Edinboro Lake was producing excellent catches of Smallmouth during the midmorning hours on Saturday. One person indicated catching over 40 during that time frame and all of decent size.

The Perch packs are forming again off of the point of Presque Isle. A recent check of several boats indicated that the fishing is quite good with perch in the 14 inch area.

Largemouth Bass are still being caught in the lagoons on Presque Isle State Park by those bold enough to electric motor back to the Lilly pads.

A new sighting for the year is the number of Carp bowfisherman seen not only on the Bayfront but also in Horseshoe Pond and Misery Bay. These boats were equipped with raised platforms attached to the bow for an elevated shooting platform.

Northern Pike are still being picked-up in the bay and in horseshoe pond and lagoons.

And now for the weather.
Wednesday: Variable clouds with a chance of thunderstorms. High around 74F. Winds SSW 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Wednesday night: Variable clouds with a chance of thunderstorms. Low around 62F. Light SSW winds. Chance of rain 60%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch.
Thursday: Variable clouds with a chance of thunderstorms. High near 75F. Winds SW 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch.
Thursday (24 hours): A few thunderstorms possible. Highs in the mid 70s and lows in the upper 50s.
Friday (24 hours): Partly cloudy, chance of a thunderstorm. Highs in the mid 70s and lows in the low 50s.
Saturday (24 hours): Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s and lows in the mid 40s.

Eastern Erie County / WCO Mark Kerr
THEFT ALERT!!:
Anglers need to be made aware of recent thefts of personal belongings, from locked vehicles, at Eaton Reservoir. No description of suspect/vehicle is known at present. It is advised that while out and about you make periodic inspections of the condition of your vehicle.
Currently, we are only aware of this type of activity occurring at Eaton; however, in year's past, theft's have occurred at other locations as well. Suspect appears very adept at entering locked vehicles, primarily pickup trucks and vans, quickly taking wanted items then relocking vehicle and departing without any noticeable sign of entry.
Facility users who experience loss of property, or who may have any information regarding this subject, are encouraged to file a report with the Pennsylvania State Police (Lawrence Park) at (814)898-1641; additionally, please contact my office at (814)796-1378. All information received by this office will be held in strict confidence.

EASTERN-ERIE BASS UPDATE:
Catch reports, through the Eastern Basin, indicate that the bass are continuing to move closer to shore. Most catches are now being reported in 22'(+/-) of water; differing from two weeks ago when 27'-31' was reported.

LAKE LEBOEUF WALLEYE:
Over the Memorial Day weekend, contacts with anglers at Lake Leboeuf have shown an increase in the harvest of walleye; with one angler, fishing in the vicinity of the PFBC launch ramp, landing one measuring 23".

EARLY SUMMER TROUT HOT SPOTS:
Anglers wishing to spend a day fishing for trout are encouraged to not overlook the Brokenstraw Creek and Blue Eye Run, both are approved trout waters(stocked).
Blue Eye Run [accessed off of SR27, just east of the junction of SR(s) 426/27 (Garland, Warren County)]maintains cooler water temperatures due to the heavy forest canopy afforded by SGL #143. This stream is stocked, by the PFBC, with Brook Trout and offers ample opportunity for harvest of holdovers.
Brokenstraw Creek, with its varied stream topography, offers several sections of nice trout water; which only begin to reach their peak after mid-May. Those areas around Horn-Siding [walk-in-only](SR 426), Garland and Pittsfield (SR 27)are excellent choices at this time of year.

NORTHERN PIKE UPDATE:
Recent contacts have shown both Benson Swamp(SGL #309)and Kidder Pond(s)[off Kidder Road], adjacent SR 6 in Columbus Township, Warren County, to be producing nice catches. Additionally, Brokenstraw Creek along Scrambling Road, north of the village of Columbus, has traditionally produced nice harvests of Northern Pike.

FISH FOR FREE DAY!!
Anglers are reminded that June 1st (this Saturday)is a scheduled Fish For Free Day. No license is required for those wishing to enjoy a day of recreational angling on Pennsylvania's waters. Seasons, sizes and creel limits still apply; those with questions on these areas are encouraged to retrieve a 2002 Summary Regulation brochure from any Commonwealth Issuing Agent.

Pennsylvania Basic Boating Course:
The Boat Store - Northeast - 6/1/02 - 9:00 AM - ask for Ron

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake- The lake was overflowing this weekend with campers, boaters and shore fishermen and fisherwomen and even though every ramp was packed and there was not a parking space to be had, we had no major incidents. I witnessed at least 4 fishermen towing boats who had broke down and on separate occasions and the friendliness between everyone was unbelievable. I am not sure if it is due to the good weather on Sunday and Monday or a renewed sense of patriotism or what, but whatever it was this was an enjoyable holiday weekend for this officer. Even people that we pulled over for violations out on the lake thanked us for being out there. Whatever it was I know myself and my fellow Western Crawford County officers would like to thank the angling and boating public for making our job easier. The biggest violation (most occurring) this weekend seemed to be a toss up between unserviceable fire extinguishers and bow riding on pontoon boats. Please check your safety equipment before you go out and if you have your pontoon in motion no one can go beyond the hand rails (that doesn't include the little 3" ones on the very front or bow). Perch and crappie are picking up now that the water is warming with a lot of activity being seen along the North end and anywhere there is structure along the shore and you have shallower water that is warmer. The walleye catch is remaining about the same with some boats coming in with several nice fish and others not catching any. The fish that are being caught are bigger but there are fewer of them. Worms on the bottom seem to still be the biggest producers for walleye and jigs or minnies under a bobber seem to be working for perch and crappie. The muskies seem to have slowed down or at least I haven't had any reports of catches in the last week. I have included the pictures I mentioned last week in my report of the habitat project in action. A special thanks to Dave Houser, Dave Keller (both P.F.B.C.), The Pymatuning Lake Association, Ohio Department Of Wildlife, and Pa. State Parks for all the work that has gone into making this a better fishery. The boat that is shown is the one of a kind for the nation that will dump a ton of rocks at a time to make gravel piles. The operators shown in the picture are our own Dave Houser and Dave Keller in action. The other photo is several people in action on manning boat ramp making the 50 porcupine cribs to be placed.

Walnut Creek Access Area:
Improvements are being made to the Walnut Creek Access area. Most noteworthy is the addition of an extensive handicapped accessible area along the end of the wall along with additional handicapped parking nearby. The Sunset Garden at the access is being well maintained and looks beautiful. The addition of a watering system for the garden should keep the area fresh and green throughout the summer. The channel has been fully dredged and currently averages a 5' depth. Anglers should note that parking in the far north west parking lot near the wall now requires a parking permit to be displayed in the windshield. This area is designated for marina slip holders only.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards

Bass:
Catches have been seen recently in the area north of Hammermill (IP) near shore and on a recent patrol through the boat livery area on Presque Isle State Park and the lagoons fishermen reported boating a high of 12 bass for an afternoon.

Northern Pike:
The area of horseshoe pond is producing some small pike but some good action. Nothing that is going to break a State record but enough fight to keep your interest up.

Yellow Perch:
The North and South Pier have been picking up as of late and the Bayfront is back to its old self. An inspection of a boat today showed a limit of perch caught on the Northern end of the Bay with some fairly good size to them.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake- The Lake is still high this week and that is causing some problems for anglers in being able to catch fish. We are still better off than Shenango Lake that is supposedly 9 feet above normal pool so the foot that we are up right now doesn’t look too bad. All of the access areas are open and usable however some of the ends of the docks are under water so boots are a good idea. Some lucky anglers have been able to land a few nice size fish however most of the boats coming in are reporting very light if any catches. Worms bounced off the bottom are still the hot producer on a chartreuse jig head. Depths seem to be varying from 7 to 15 feet. Should you happen to see the Fish and Boat Commission pontoon boat on the lake this week take notice of it because it is a one of a kind. They are using a hopper on the end of a pontoon boat to make gravel beds for fish habitat. In speaking with Mr. Dave Houser this is the only pontoon of its kind in the nation for this type of work. They can load gravel from shore then take it out and dump it in large piles, and it will haul up to a ton at a time. It is very ingenious and extremely helpful. I will have pictures next week of the operation. For those interested the gravel piles are going in around the handicap area at the southern end of the lake by the pines. We are also doing porcupine cribs for habitat and those are supposed to be sunk on the North side of the causeway towards the Ohio side of the lake.

Conneaut Lake- High water continues to be problem here with a lot of private docks and our access under water. Hopefully by this weekend the water will recede enough for some boating and fishing activity. Warmer weather would certainly help also. I haven't seen much activity here yet so I can’t report on any fish caught but with the cold temps we have been having I am not surprised.

I spoke with WCO Morris this afternoon and as of Tuesday 5/21/2002 all of the ramps at Shenango Lake except for the recreation area next to Route 18 are closed due to high water. This is supposedly the case at Kinzu Dam as well where all the accesses are under water. Looks like Pymatuning right now is the only safe bet for access unless we get a lot more rain before the holiday weekend.

Presque Isle Bay provided for good catchin of perch and rock bass just east of the West Pier outlet into the bay. The bit was heavy but the fish were small only a few keepers. 8 to 12 feet drop was best.

The lake started to settle as the wind dropped at 10:30.

Fished the Cribs area and caught a few nice smallies.

By 1 PM the wind was just right for good drifting and small waves. The bite became steady for the remainder of the day. The smallies wanted the golden shiners today. Lake temperature 51 degrees now. Best depth 20 to 25 feet.

Ok, truth be told... I really don't have one. 'Cause last time I looked
out the window, everything looked like one big puddle. 3+ inches of rain
in less than two days time can really get the water flowing. Be that as it
may, I'll give ya what I got...

IN-SEASON STOCKINGS:
Are done!!!! Yep, that's right, all East County stockings are completed
until December.

LAKES/IMPOUNDMENTS ARE YOUR BEST BET:
Given the incredible amount of rain which we recently received, all streams
are running above, at or close to flood stage. So, if you just got to get
out there and fish, I'd try the local lakes/impoundments...
Trout: Hirtzel Pond or Lake pleasant
Crappies: Union City Reservoir
Walleye: Eaton Reservoir
Yellow Perch: Lake Leboeuf (west cove)
Bass:
Lake Erie (average 29' depth) [Limit: 1 @ no less than 20"]
Siegel Marsh [Limit: 0 (no harvest) until June 15th]
Northern PIke: Eaton Reservoir, if you don't mind tossn' most
of 'em back; however, if you can wait until the waters
subside, just for a change of scenery, I'd try
Brokenstraw Creek (north of the village of Columbus, Warren County).

WESTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO JOHN BOWSER & DWCO RANDY LEIGHTON

Fish for Free Day 2002 - June 1st
Fish For Free Day allows EVERYONE - not just license holders - to fish for species currently in season in Pennsylvania.

Family fishing Event - 6/1/02
10:00 - 2:00 Presque Isle State Park Walk-ins welcome
Call Ed Kissell with questions @ 814-453-2270 S.O.N.S. of Lake Erie

Fishing Tackle Loaner Sites
Presque Isle State Park
Stull Nature Center
Peninsula Drive (Rt 832) Wed-Sun 10 AM-4 PM
March-October
Randy Neyer - 814-833-0351
Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake- The Lake was once again busy this weekend with a large number of tournament fishermen and recreational boaters. Saturday was a nice day if you could stand the wind but fishermen were reporting less than normal catches due to the water temps still only being in the high fifties and the water was still about a foot above normal pool. Some of the bass fishermen did manage to land really nice fish near Meyer’s parking lot just south of the spillway using a variety of tube jigs (seemed to be the preferred bait). The fishermen that did catch walleye were still fishing the bottom and using night crawlers in about 24 feet of water. I am told also that a few feet of difference either up or down from there meant the difference between catching fish and going home without. Drifting a jig head along the bottom or a Carolina rig with a suspended worm was by far the most productive. That was Saturday before the rain hit, now after 2 days of rain and over 3 inches total I have a feeling that the fishing will slow down even more. Muskies were also quite active this weekend with 1 boat informing me that they had caught one while trolling and not trying for them and had 2 others following their boat. Shore fishermen are also still catching Muskies from the shore while trying for Walleyes on the South end of the lake. Don’t forget the dam is still closed and you have to detour around and the Jamestown Livery is now open for business with bait, boat rentals and gas.

Conneaut Lake- This Lake has also been hit by high water with the recent storms and as of today, 5/14/2002 our Fish and Boat Commission access ramp was completely under water. I have heard of no one catching any fish over here and I imagine the water is still pretty cold. If you have had success here lately let me know I’ll share it with other fishermen.

Tragedy was nearly averted yesterday in eastern Crawford County when 5 canoeists decided to take to the high waters and do some white water rafting in their canoes. Four of them made it out without incident but the fifth was not so lucky and was pinned in a strainer until a dive rescue team was able to free him. He was rescued without injury and was extremely lucky, however a lesson should be learned from, Respect The Water. This is not the time of year to be experimenting and if the water doesn’t get you hypothermia could.

Saturday morning the south wind at Shades gave a good drift. Action was good with a couple doubles. 20 to 30 feet was the best. Water was murky after yesterdays gale force winds.

8:00 AM the wind dropped and so did the bite.

The wind picked up but was now out of the northeast which today made the truth of "East is Least" A few fish were caught.

A nice sized Rock Bass was caught at Shorewood.

By after noon the wind dropped some, but action was still slow until we tried 12 feet. Here the water was clear and the fish were biting with doubles again and a triple. Jigging small minnows worked the best.

Time was now short but some nice fish were caught in the final hour.

Fished Shades Beach all day Saturday. Many doubles with the fish found 22 to 35 feet. Jigging minnows worked well as usual.

11:30 to 1:00 the fishing slowed, but after that the wind picked up and there were still big ones to cast and jig for.

Sunday morning found many small perch north of the red can off Dobins Landing in the bay, not too many keepers, depth 5 feet.

Conditions
With docks and launch ramps in at Walnut Access and most other areas, boaters and anglers are taking to the water. May 1st is traditionally the unofficial start of boating season in our area. Anglers are already out looking for the perch schools although success has been limited. Perch anglers are having some success north of the Conneaut harbor in Ohio. Perch and crappie fishing in Presque Isle Bay has been good. Bass anglers are having success in the Bay as well as in the lake near the International Paper Company west of the.

A few anglers have been spotted night fishing for Walleye off of the Walnut Access shoreline and near Godfrey run. Many anglers question the success of night time shore fishing and in fact it is an art. It can be done many fish have been put on the stringer for those willing to try. Anglers targeting shoreline Walleye typically have the most success with 6 to 8" floating Rapellas in the rainbow, silver and perch patterns. Cast the Rapella as far as possible and let it lie, giving it only an occasional twitch to simulate and injured fish. Walleye coming in this close to shore at night are easily spooked making silence and no artificial light a must. Successful anglers often say that a clear moon lit night makes the best conditions.

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO MARK KERR
EASTERN-ERIE/WESTERN-WARREN STOCKINGS:
As of last Saturday (05-04-02), all Eastern-Erie County inseason stockings
were completed. In Western-Warren County, both Spring Creek and the Little
Brokenstraw were stocked this week; that only leaves Blue Eye Run, which is
scheduled for next week.

LAKE PLEASANT:
Stocked with a 50/50 mix of browns and rainbows (2000 total) on 05-04-02,
those anglers present were immediately rewarded for their trip. Within
minutes of getting placed, these fish were almost jumping into many of the
creels which lined the east shoreline. Orange 'power bait' and any
blue/silver spinner combination seemed to do the trick.

FRENCH CREEK WALLEYE:
More and more are now being caught in that area extending from the Union
City Dam (outflow) through to the Erie/Crawford County Line(s). Haven't,
as yet, firmed down the most all around useful bait; however, spinners,
light in color (whitish), seem to be producing some good strikes.

EAST COUNTY TRIBUTARIES:
Twentymile Creek received its final inseason stocking on 05-03-02. My
apologies for the erroneous info on last week's post. Seems there was a
bit of confusion, mainly on my part, regarding the exact date... I made it
though! All the little critters got into the water just fine. Activity
has been steady from the SR20 bridge downstream to the mouth.
Additionally, there still seems to be a few Steelhead lingering in many of
the eastern tributaries.

EAST COUNTY BASS:
Anglers are beginning to report good numbers of small-mouth catches within
the Eastern Basin. The majority of activity seems to center on the 27'-31'
depth range. Catches are averaging 4lb +; and, the largest I heard
reported, during this last weekend, was 6 1/4 lb.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS
HOT SPOTS have been producing fair catches of bass in the recent week:
Chestnut St. public access pier and S. Pier, (remember 1 Bass measuring at least 20 inches).

Crappie fishing has dropped off considerably at the boat livery on Presque Isle and at the condos across from Cascade. Small catches are still being taken at the West Pier and by boat at the head of the park.

Perch fishing is still pretty decent for those who wish to put the time into it at the North Pier and at Dobbins.

Northern Pike were being caught in the lagoons and at Horseshoe Pond as of late, nothing huge but most all above the size limit.

Water temperature is still in the low 50's (52) so be sure to have your PFD's onboard.

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL
Pymatuning Lake- The first nice weekend in a while and several tournaments made for some very crowded boating this weekend on the lake. The bass anglers had a mixed bag with some doing really well and others not landing a fish. Water temps continue to rise (it was 56-58 this weekend) and they tell me they think the bass angling will get much better when it warms up some. Walleye were biting this weekend as well and some of the bass anglers even landed big walleye with spinner baits, and rattle traps. Worms continue to be the best bait of choice and the bottom seems to be were most of the feeding is being done. Shore fishermen that are targeting the walleye on the southern end of the lake are telling me that they are having quite a bit of trouble with the amount of muskies that they keep catching, and the rest of the fish shut down when they are around. The crappies and perch have been hitting as well but not in huge numbers but the fish they are catching are good sizes. Fishermen and boaters should remember to keep an eye on the weather as it can change quickly this time of year, and we have already had 4 boat accidents/swampings/capsizings. Luckily we have had no one seriously hurt and only equipment has been damaged or lost. Remember to check all of your required safety equipment before you go out just in case you might need it

Conneaut Lake- I haven't made it over to Conneaut Lake this week because Pymatuning has kept me so busy, so unfortunately I don't know how the fishing is over there right now. If anyone has any success stories they are always appreciated.

Conneaut Creek-Very little if any pressure has gone to this stream lately and if you are looking for a quiet trout stream with trout left in it I would suggest this one.

Sevenmile Creek:
This tributary still hold fair numbers of Steelhead as well as stocked trout (planted by the Wesleyville Conservation Club). When fishing Lake Erie/Tributaries, keep in mind that of the eight (8) trout/salmon permitted in possession, regulations allow for only three (3) to measure 15" or larger.

Union City Reservoir:
Both crappies and blue gill continue to be available to anglers. The largest concentrations appear to be in the far northern shallows.

Eaton Reservoir:
Action on this impoundment continues to improve. Northern Pike as well as Walleye are showing up in greater numbers than in week's prior, the greatest concentrations appear to be in the weedy shallows along the western perimeter.

French Creek-South Branch:
This stream was last stocked on 04-26-02. Float stocking of trout was accomplished in that area from Riley-Siding downstream to the Boy Scout Camp, located off of O'Niel Road.

Lake Pleasant Stocking:
This water area is scheduled for stocking on Saturday, May 4th, at 9:00 AM.

Twentymile Stocking:
This water area is scheduled for its final in-season stocking during the week of 05-04-02.

WESTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO JOHN BOWSER & DWCO RANDY LEIGHTON

Hot Trout Locations for this Weekend:
Crooked Creek - Fairview Gravel Pit - Lake Pleasant

WALLEYE SHORE FISHERY:
Anglers can start this Saturday to try their luck along the Erie shoreline at night. Remember that these fish are extremely light sensitive and even the moon coming out from behind a cloud will shut them off. In other words, the novice that may head down to the water with a Coleman lantern or flashlight may get pelted with rocks by his fellow anglers.

WALNUT CREEK:
The dredging operation is complete with a record 3500 cubic yards of material being removed from the channel. The West jetty has sand built up to the end on the West side and littorial drift may be a problem as the season goes by. Perch & Bass anglers should be utilizing the channel soon. The docks are in place at this time.

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL

Pymatuning Lake- Another detail was held this last weekend for those of you that were on the and thought that there was a lot of officers around. Believe it or not though out of all the officers around for the last two weeks there have been no short fish cases which corresponds with what fishermen have been telling me that, they are not catching the number of walleye they did last year but the walleye they do catch are large. Most of the fish that we checked over the weekend were in the 16” to 20” inch range with a few over, and some up to 24". Most of the fishermen that were having luck were in boats in 7-10 feet of water and using jig heads with night crawlers. There have been numerous reports to myself, the state park and to the hatchery concerning a foul smell and sometimes a funny taste coming from walleye after they have been filleted or prepared. We believe we have the answer it also happened in 82 or 83. Back in Feb. of this year when we had such unseasonable temps ranging into the high 80's the city of Sharon noticed foul smelling water in the cities drinking water supply. It was test and found that the outflow to Pymatuning and the Shenango River had a large amount of Algae in it and that was the cause. What we are experiencing now is the effects of that algae bloom. When it occurred the small shad ate the algae as a food source and absorbed it into there system, now as the walleye are eating the shad they are absorbing the same thing into there bodies from the shad. I have spoke with the hatchery and they informed me that it was a natural occurrence and it will just take a little time to work out of their systems, possibly a couple of months. It is not harmful to humans and is definitely not a pollution event. It is also only affecting the walleye as best we can tell as we have no reports of any other fish being affected but that would seem to go along with the shad being a major forage fish for the walleye. I have included pictures of the hatchery crew on Pymatuning, thanks to Freeman Johns, taken during a work day checking the nets. I am told they have had a real good year with some very large numbers and sizes of fish. Richter's Sporting goods is having a grand reopening on May 4th with activities and food and drawings all day. They are a license dealer, Grocery store, Bait store, and have all the equipment you could possibly need for a day of fishing or hunting. I know a lot of you told me you missed them over the winter when they burned down so stop and show you support them reopening and thank them for rebuilding. Conneaut Lake- Crappies and Northerns are still hitting on the lake right now in the back waters and the shallows. Live bait (minnies) and Rappalas seem to be the hot ticket so far. Boat traffic is still extremely light due to the weather but then again so has the fishing pressure. Conneaut Creek- We stocked here again on the 25th with 2300 Brook and Brown trout being put in and as of yet I have seen little or no pressure from anglers other than opening day. This is an easily accessible stream and a very good place to take young ones or anyone who might have a little difficulty getting around.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS

Started at Shades Beach area with a double on the 18 to 25 foot drop off. 19.75 inch bass and a big gobie.

The action the next hour was slow until we got a wind shift from the east. Action picked up with lots of big smallies. As the wind picked up so did the bite. Many doubles and a good many triples of large smallies
were caught.

"East is least" NOT TODAY!

Bait: Multi sized minnows all worked good.

Water Temp: 46

There were a couple of other boats in the area and they were using tubes and jigs also doing well.

By early afternoon the wind was stiff and cold. Tried the bay but it was dead.

Great day on the water!!!!!

Conditions
Slab crappie are the hot target in and around Presque Isle Bay. Action has been hot on the West end of the bay along Presque Isle. Anglers have been doing great wading from shore as well as by boat. Other good areas include the lagoons, the West end of Marina bay, and Horseshoe pond. Hot baits have been twisters in chartreuse and white jigged under a float as well as live shiners. Limits have been common with many fish in the 1 to 2 LB range.

Action is still good for stocked trout at the Gravel Pit and in the Struechen flats and Legion Park areas of Elk Creek. Suckers have moved into the tribs in large numbers and can provide easy action for the youngsters. Angling has been fair to good along the North and South Piers for Perch and Rock Bass using shiners.

For the angler that likes to get away from the crowds, the Stateline Ponds along Interstate 90 in East Springfield have been producing nice crappie and panfish.

Walnut Creek Access
Dredging continues in the Walnut Creek Access channel in preparation for this year's boating season. Docks and launch ramps should be up and ready no later than May 11th and most likely will be in earlier ...weather permitting. The Walnut Creek access office is a certified weigh station and is currently open on weekends providing information, fishing licenses, ice, and restroom facilities. The office will be open 7 days a week beginning on May 10th.

* Officer Award *
Officer John Bowser is in Portland, Maine this week at the Northeast Law Enforcement Chiefs conference. John is being honored as the Waterways Conservation Officer of the year from Pennsylvania for his outstanding performance and dedication this past year. This is out of a field of over 100 officers throughout the state. His commitment on and off the clock in law enforcement and public relations along with a genuine love of his work have paid off in the receipt of this prestigious award. John is always the first to credit his success to the team effort of the officers and management staff of the Northwest Region. Manager Gary Deiger and Assistant Manager Bob Nestor have often allowed John to "think outside the box" helping to contribute to the successful management and promotion of our unique area. John also credits neighboring WCO's Mark Kerr, Joe Russell, Tom Edwards and especially his dedicated deputy staff with giving him the well balanced support that has been the key to his success. Strong area law enforcement, countless hours of angler communication via the Internet and land line, key improvements and promotion of the Walnut Creek Access Area, along with a 24 / 7 availability to the public are only a few of the issues that have put John on top. On a personal note, it was John that drafted me as a deputy and I consider it a privilege to serve the PFBC and the Commonwealth along side him. We all wish John the very best for the future and continued success for years to come. RGL

Eastern Erie County / WCO Mark Kerr

Eastern-Erie/Western-Warren Stream Conditions:
Mother Nature still can't seem to settle on a predictable pattern... first it's sun then it's rain (lots of rain-- marble plus size hail too!!); for a while it's warm (very warm) then it's cold (could be snow-- might be rain, we'll call it "snain"). Anyhow,
water conditions have been quite variable over the last week or so; however, as of Sunday night, most seemed to be
evening out in color and flow. As long as we don't get any good rains in the next day or so, conditions should be optimal in the next day or two.

Regulation tip:
When fishing Approved Trout Waters (streams/rivers) please keep the following tid bit of info in mind...
>From the opening day of trout season until the first Saturday in May, the Trout/Salmon Permit is REQUIRED even if you do not intend to take and/or harvest trout/salmon from these waters. From the first Saturday in May through the end of the extended season, the Trout/Salmon Permit is only required when one takes, kills and/or possesses these species.

Opening Week Summary:
Were you one of the hardy souls who braved the weather and stuck it out to the end on the opening day this last weekend? If so, more power to ya...and, oh yeah, just like most WCO's, there's a really good chance you're a little bit
off keel (know what I mean?). Wow, could you believe that weather. Rain would seem to stop for just long enough to tease you into believing it was going to quit... then BAM!! Now you're soaked. Regardless, streams across
the district were the color of chocolate milk and, by late afternoon, most had rapids like the Youghiogheny. Even so, more than a handful of anglers reported that they had done "better than average". Throughout much of the first half
of the opening week, Lake Pleasant was the spot of choice. We estimated that just over 500 people were there on opening day and 50 + boats were on the water. By Friday (04-19-02), the South Branch of French Creek seemed to be
receiving the most pressure. Many anglers were doing well on (1) live minnows, (2) meal worms and (3) green power bait. All total, it appeared that the average catch for district waters (+/- 90% are 'inland' regulated) was 3 per
angler/trip.

Union City Reservoir:
Good news for the panfish angler, Union City Reservoir (located on SR 6 just east of Union City) has started to produce nice yields of both blue gill and crappies, with some crappies topping off in the 11" plus range. Ok, now for
the less than perfect news... the Reservoir doesn't officially open until 05-02; that means that until then the gate is closed and locked. However, you are allowed to park outside the gate (don't block road access) and walk in... I
figure it to be about a +/- 1 mile stroll. Good fishing and exercise-- no excuses permitted on this one!

Union City Dam:
Often confused with the Reservoir, the dam (situated on French Creek, upstream of its junction with the South Branch) is located just north of SR 97 between Middleton and Hare roads, and is maintained/operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Under normal conditions, no pool exists; however, given the recent rains, a pool is currently present, extending north and east to quite a distance beyond the Old Waterford-Wattsburg Road (Juva area). Several local
anglers have been present trying their luck. Some have reported catching bass, others walleye and several are harvesting panfish (not nearly the size of those in the Reservoir); the panfish are being taken in that area just to the East
(left side looking downstream) of the outflow. All reported catches, other than bluegill, have been sporadic.
Additionally, once again, we just wanted to put the word out that the operation of motorized vehicles on USACE property, other than that main access road and parking area(s) located off Middleton Road, is prohibited. ATV's and/or motor
vehicles are NOT AUTHORIZED to operate upstream and/or downstream of the dam breast or in that area adjacent the old visitor's center and its surrounding fields.

Twenty Mile Creek and Steelhead:
Although Twentymile Creek has recently been stocked with over 1500 Brown Trout, anglers can still try their luck at Steelhead; which are sporadically present along its course. One hole, located between SR 20 & I-90, was observed to have several of each-- trout/steelhead. Twentymile will receive one more in-season stocking; which is set to occur during the week of 05-04-02. Keep in mind that the regulations here are different from 'Inland'-- 8 per day w/ minimum size of 9".

Northeast Minor Pollution:
Anglers frequenting Hirtzel's Pond, and that section of Twentymile Creek just north of I-90, owe a degree of gratitude to the quick response of local property owners who, last Sunday (04-14-02), reported both a sheen as well as strong odor of diesel fuel entering the pond from a tributary. Follow-up investigation revealed that a relatively minor quantity of diesel fuel appeared to have escaped during refueling procedures; slipping into the stormwater sewer system, only to be deposited into the tributary/Pond/Twentymile/Lake Erie... and so on and so on and so on... Enforcement actions were taken against the responsible party and, furthermore, discussions centering on long-tern solutions for minimizing this type of
discharge are currently underway. High water volume helped to swiftly flush the product and no 'fish kill' occurred as a result of this discharge.

Eastern Erie / Western Warren Trout Stockings Week of 4/20/02
* Brokenstraw Creek
* French Creek--South Branch

Any Questions, Comments or Concerns or to Report a Violation
Call the office (814) 796-1378 or the cell phone (814) 673-4650. Leave your name, number and message and I will return your call as soon as my schedule permits. MK

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards
Action has been good along the North and South Piers for Perch; especially at day brake. Crappie, Perch, and other Panfish have been hitting well off of Perry's and Dobbins Landing along the Bayfront. A few Burbot have been caught off the North Pier using large live shiners. Boaters putting in on Presque Isle Bay are reminded to check that all safety equipment is on board, serviceable and up to date.

Weather Conditions
Wednesday: A few clouds from time to time. High near 63F. Winds S 10 to 15 mph.
Wednesday (24 hours): Times of sun and clouds. Highs in the low 60s and lows in the low 40s.
Thursday (24 hours): Occasional showers. Highs in the low 50s and lows in the low 40s.
Friday (24 hours): Times of sun and clouds. Highs in the mid 50s and lows in the low 40s.

Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake
The “Thin Green Line” got a little wider this weekend as I am sure you are aware, if you were on the lake on Sunday. In a Joint effort between Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Pennsylvania Game Commission (deputies), Ohio Division of Wildlife, and Ohio Division of Watercraft, nearly 20 officers were on the lake utilizing 3 patrol boats and numerous vehicles to watch each ramp and due boat safety checks. Even with all these officers only a couple of fishermen reported being checked more than once. A few citations were written and numerous warnings were given (probably 5 or 6 warnings to each citation). This was the first such detail this year in this area but I am sure it will not be the last, if you see us out there in great numbers just remember we are only trying to keep you safe. Fishing this week slowed down with the recent cold front that came through last Saturday but the seasoned die hard anglers were still catching some fish. Most of the success seems to be in deeper water, 7-15 feet, for both Crappie and walleye. Night Crawlers and minnies seem to be the bait of choice. Successful anglers are telling me that they are not getting the number of fish they did last year but the fish they are getting are large 17-23 inch range. Fishermen and boaters should also remember that the road across the dam is now closed and will remain closed until the beginning of July.

Conneaut Lake
Crappies are still hitting in the channels but they have slowed down as well with the cold front that is here. Fishermen are also telling me they are picking up quite a few smaller Northerns in the shallows and back bays on minnies. Boat traffic is still real light due to the bad weather so anyplace you go on the lake is halfway decent right now.

Conneaut Creek
There is still a good number of trout in this stream due to the high water on opening day and the lack of pressure since then. The few anglers I have spoke to here have reported having very good luck. The bait of choice seems to be whatever you throw at them because they are hitting on just about anything. And should you be looking for a good place to take the kids fishing this weekend I would highly recommend bringing them here especially this weekend as it is being stocked again this week.

Repairing water lines & replacing sewer pumps. Unexpected costs on some items but striving to please our "customers"

Stocking of the Fairview Gravel Pit by tube

Stocking remote areas by pickup truck gets help from local businesses & anglers.

The PFBC appreciates this teamwork... thanks guys

Fairview Gravel Pit boaters on Opening Day

Steelhead from Walnut was the choice of this Opening Day angler from North Huntingdon, Pa.

Conditions
Steelhead season is winding down with only a few big ones left. Record warm temperatures have almost insured the lack of a major spring run. I think all will agree that this past year's Steelhead season will be memorable. Plenty of stocked trout are scattered through out the tribs. The Fairview Gravel Pit has been busy and catches have been good. Added stockings will keep trout fishing good for a while. Baits of choice are maggots, grubs, and shiners fished 3 to 5 feet under a float. Anglers continue to hammer nice slab crappie at Presque Isle in the lagoon area, Misery Bay, and Horse Shoe Pond. Small mouth fanatics have been successful just east of the entrance to Marina Bay, near the Perry Monument and just outside the entrance to Horse Shoe Pond (watch for shallow water and large rocks in this area)

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO Tom Edwards

WATERWORKS POND AT PRESQUE ISLE STATE PARK HAS BEEN STOCKED FOR THE SECOND TIME WITH TROUT AND THE CATCH HAS BEEN VERY GOOD. ALONG WITH TROUT ANGLERS ARE CATCHING GOOD NUMBERS OF SMALL BLUEGILL.
THE WATERS ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE PARK ENTRANCE HAVE BEEN PRODUCING VERY GOOD NUMBERS OF LARGE BLUEGILL AS WELL AS CRAPPIE. BOATERS ARE REMINDED TO CHECK THEIR SAFETY EQUIPMENT BEFORE LAUNCHING.
MARINA BAY AND THE BOAT LIVERY CONTINUE TO PRODUCE VERY NICE YELLOW PERCH AND CRAPPIE. THE WEST PIER IN THE PARK IS ALSO DOING VERY WELL.

BAYFRONT:
THE SAME OLD HAUNTS ON THE BAYFRONT ARE PRODUCING WELL IN THE NUMBERS OF CRAPPIE CAUGHT OFF OF THE CASCADE CONDOS AND YELLOW PERCH ON THE REST OF THE BAYFRONT.

CASCADE CK:
THIS TRIB HAS BEEN STOCKED FOR THE SECOND TIME ALSO SINCE LAST WEDNESDAY AND ANGLERS ARE SEEING DECENT CREELS. THE CLASS 3 RAPIDS WHICH WERE SEEN FROM THE HIGH RAINS ARE NOW GONE AND THE WATER IS FLOWING NICELY.

EDINBORO:
CONNEAUTTEE CK IS PRODUCING GOOD TROUT CREELS FOR THE PATIENT ANGLER, THIS STREAM WILL RECEIVE ANOTHER STOCKING IN ROUGHLY TWO MORE WEEKS.
THE FINGERS (PENINSULA PARK) HAS DIED DOWN FOR THE MOST PART WITH LIMITED ANGLER PRESSURE.

A SPECIAL THANKS TO THE LOCAL SCOUT TROOP WHICH PROVIDED CUT RATE PRICED COFFEE, HOT DOGS AND OTHER VARIOUS GOODIES AT WATERWORKS PONDS ON THE OPENING DAY, IT WAS APPRECIATED BY ALL.

THE STEELHEAD FISHING IS SEEMINGLY AT AN END WITH MOST OF THE FISH ALREADY MOVED OUT. I WOULD LIKE TO REMIND ANGLERS OF STOCKED TROUT TO PLEASE BE GENTLE WHEN RELEASING SMOLTS CAUGHT ON YOUR TRIPS.

Eastern Erie County / WCO Mark Kerr

Wednesday: Partly cloudy early. Scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day. High around 77F. Winds SW 15 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Wednesday night: Isolated thunderstorms during the evening, then partly cloudy overnight. Low near 57F. Light WSW winds. Chance of rain 40%.
Thursday: A few clouds from time to time. High near 81F. Winds SSW 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday (24 hours): Mix of sun and clouds. Highs in the low 80s and lows in the mid 50s.
Friday (24 hours): Chance of showers. Highs in the mid 70s and lows in the mid 40s.
Saturday (24 hours): Partial sunshine. Highs in the upper 50s and lows in the upper 30s.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake- Walleye fishing is finally here with the water warming up into the fifties, fishermen are having all sorts of luck both wading and out of boats. I checked several very nice catches at Espyville ramp on Friday night before the rains came and the average fish probably was in the 18” range. The recent rain has made it a little more difficult though to catch them with the lake being over a foot above normal pool. Shore fishermen seem to be having good luck using creek chubs or minnies, and the waders are doing real well with Rappalas. Sonar’s are continuing to be the big producers out of boats. The place that seems to be producing constantly right now seems to be the shallows or the spillway but you better come early there if you want to get a spot. If you are boating the lake the Espyville and Linesville marinas are open and in full operation and Jamestown Livery should be opening soon. As of April 22, to the beginning of July fishermen should be aware that the road going over the dam (Dam Road) at the South end of the lake will be closed for repairs and you will have to go around. Work will also be starting soon on the Jamestown/Turnersville and Manning boat ramps and they will be closed but I am not sure yet as to the exact date so I will let you know that later.

Conneaut Lake- Crappies seem to be the fish of choice here with the channel at the North end being hit real hard. I am not sure if it is producing as many fish as what the pressure reflects but it is getting fished very regularly.

Conneaut Creek- As I am sure you are all aware the opening of trout season was this last weekend, April 13 at 08:00 am. The water was rather high with the inch of rain we had the night before and it was running rather muddy, however even with all this against them I still counted 170 people on the stream. This weeks fishing moment of mention has to be a little girl by the name of Wendy Latsko who is 6 years old and came from Cleveland with her brother Joe, who is 10, and Luke who is 8 and dad. This was this young ladies first time to fish camp (she was the first girl to ever go), and even with all that was against her with the weather, water conditions, and the 17 other avid anglers out of this camp she was the first to land a nice 10” brown trout (also the first trout I saw caught of the season). The excitement and pure joy of watching her land this fish, as if it were a 28” Steelhead, was incredible and it made standing in the rain all day well worth it. It was definitely one of the better aspects of this job. As soon as she landed it though she promptly turned to dad and exclaimed “YOUR NOT FRYING THAT.” Her brothers didn't get skunked either with Joe landing a brown trout (and falling in) and Luke landing a brook. The other 2 youngsters in camp Corey Delmastro age 11 and Tommy Bohm age 9 hadn't landed fish yet while I was there but if determination was any indication I am sure they did not get skunked either. Thanks to this camp for letting me share in this moment with them and GOOD JOB Wendy. Sorry I don't have any pictures but the digital camera died a while ago.

Erie Shoreline @ Rudd Road

Erie Shoreline @ Rudd Road

A young "Crappie Catchin' Machine" at the State Line Ponds

A "Swamp-chuck" ... ran across the road toward a swampy area. He found a dry house in a hollow tree.

Sarah Russell - (Joe's daughter) loves the kid's derbies... yours will too

Conditions
Recent rains have kept the tributaries at nice levels however, the Steelhead have become very scattered. Some fish remain in the Manchester hole and only a few stray fish remain in the Walnut Project waters. Remaining fish are either in the far upstream areas or have returned to the lake for now. The Struechen flats area, Folly's end, the McKean hole along I-79 and the areas behind the Millcreek Mall may still be worth a try for the big ones. We don't mean to be redundant, but anglers should be careful when hooking smolts. These infant Steelhead are fragile and extra care should be taken to release them unharmed. They are easy to distinguish from the stocked trout. Stockies typically are of legal size to keep (nine inches). Smolts are generally in the 6 to 7 inch range. Early weather reports are predicting dry conditions with a possibility of some rain for the opener. Trib conditions should remain clear and will dictate a variety of bait possibilities. Shiners, singles, grubs, waxworms and very small jig and fly presentations will be good bets combined with 2 to 4 LB test line. Crawlers or red worms may be the ticket if rain clouds up the tribs.

Alternative Fishing
Spring crappie fishing is in full swing around Presque Isle. Good numbers of boats crowded Marina bay, Misery bay, and Horseshoe pond this past weekend. Action has been great from both shore and by boat. Shiners on crappie rigs and micro tube jigs have been hot. Good shore fishing can be found near the canoe livery on Presque Isle and along the lagoon shores. Boats were crowding the "stink hole" just past the second parking lot on Presque Isle . Boaters were jockeying for position all weekend to find that "hot spot" in Misery bay. Bass action is picking up in the Bay and should be prime in another couple of weeks.

Stateline Ponds
A nice alternative to get away from the crowds with lots of exploring for kids to do. Bluegills are always available and Crappies are starting to appear. Small Bass are being hooked regularly but the waters also hold some lunkers. Musky have been reported in a few of the ponds and offer a big surprise to the dozing angler.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO Tom Edwards

Fishing on the Bayfront in the morning continues to produce decent catches of perch and the Public Dock. Pressure on the South Pier has picked up some but there is still plenty of room for everyone, take advantage of this before the weather warms up.
Crappie across from Cascade condos is the same as it has been in recent weeks.
Presque Isle State Park boat livery and horseshoe pond continue to produce crappie in decent numbers and size.
Steelhead fishing has dropped off considerably. Two recent anglers down from north of Toronto were frustrated by the number of smolts in the stream. Of course they realize that they are the future. They also commented on what an excellent fishery we have here in Erie County compared to the Georgian bay. They want more Steelhead up there and less salmon.
Trout season is upon us. Wednesday the 10th I will be stocking waterworks ponds on PISP with roughly 1000 trout for each. Meeting place will be the Niagara Boat Launch at 1000. Friday the 12th will be the big stocking day for the Erie WCO's with Cascade, 20-mile, Elk and Crooked Creek being stocked. Meeting Place is the McKean Exit of I-79 @ 10 AM.

EASTERN-ERIE/WESTERN-WARREN COUNTIES / WCO Mark Kerr

Excerpted from PFBC 'Press Release' [03-22-02]
PFBC ANNOUNCES OPENING OF BROWNS POND, WARREN COUNTY
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) has announced the opening of Browns Pond, Warren County for community fishing.
The pond, located near the village of Lander, is a 30-acre impoundment owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for use by the PFBC. The Commission originally used the pond for warmwater fish propagation, but recently determined that it no longer has need of the impoundment for hatchery uses. As a result, and with the encouragement of State Representative Jim Lynch, the Commission has now opened the pond for public use.
Fishing opportunities exist for panfish and bullhead catfish. The waterway is relatively shallow, approximately 10 feet at the deepest point. The surrounding wetlands are home to many amphibians and birds.
PFBC property regulations apply to the use of the pond. Specifically, open fires are prohibited, no swimming is allowed, vehicles are restricted to the public roadways, dogs must be leashed or under the immediate control of their owners and no trees or vegetation can be cut or picked. Parking at the property is limited to that which is available along adjacent roadways. Likewise, there is no developed boat launch at the site, but small car-top boats, canoes and kayaks may be used to explore the pond.
DIRECTIONS:
From the village of Lander (Farmington Twp., Warren County), which is located on SR 957 mid-way between Sugar Grove and Russell, travel south on SR 1005 for almost one (1) mile. At this point Cemetery Road will intersect SR 1005 on your right. Follow Cemetery Road for approximately 1Ľ miles and Brown's Pond will then be immediately on your right.

THE MINNOWS HAVE RETURNED
Although not as widely touted as the ritual return of swallows to Capistrano, many local anglers will be pleased to learn that scores of smaller tributaries within the Southeastern-Erie/Northwestern-Warren area are now teeming with baitfish activity.

WESTERN CRAWFORD COUNTY / WCO JOE RUSSELL
Pymatuning Lake- The water is getting warmer and so is the fishing here at the lake. Walleye were few in numbers this weekend with only 8 being checked by me on Sunday but they were all very nice fish ranging from 17-22 inches. I have talked to some waders though since then and they tell me they are picking more up now than they have been and if the weather stays warm it should be excellent for walleye this weekend. Fishermen are also having luck with nice crappies and perch both on the North end near Wilson boat launch and down south by Ackerman Island. Fishermen have been telling me they are doing real well on the spillway also however you have to get there early or wait forever to get a spot. The open house was a success this last weekend with over 2500 people coming threw to see the different exhibits and sample the fresh fish that was filleted right there.

Conneaut Lake- fishing has started to pick up here again, crappies are hitting in the canal and along the weed beds nears the North end of the lake. Several boats that I have checked over here have had some nice catches in their live wells. If you plan on fishing here this is the time of year to do it before the boating season gets underway

TV Sports Reporter Tom tried to get an interview with some of the smolts in the truck with his underwater microphone (only to find out that the station doesn't have any underwater mikes)

Smolts are the future trophies - release them carefully

Lower Walnut Creek on Tuesday 4/2/02

Walnut Creek on Tuesday 4/2/02

Scene from lower Walnut Creek on Tuesday 4/2/02

Conneaut Creek...
The West Branch was stocked on Tuesday & Wednesday this week at the Griffey Road Bridge) with 50,000 Steelhead smolts. The Main Branch will be stocked (at Ackerly Road) on Thursday with 25,000 smolts. This will match the 75,000 that Ohio DNR is putting in & make for some great fishing for those trying to shake the crowds

Conditions
Although temperatures are indicative of winter, the occasional sunny days and temperatures reaching the high forties and low fifties we have actually produced some indication of spring on the Erie tribs. Moss has appeared on the rocky trib beds making footing very slippery at times. Felt bottom wader boots will solve this problem. Suckers have begun to move into the tribs and can make for easy action for the younger anglers. 6 lb line, a number 10 or 12 hook, some split shot and a night crawler are all that is needed. Let the crawler drift along the bottom. The suckers will take care of the rest and they can put up a pretty good fight.

Steelhead fishing is still good with some fresh fish being caught in the 24" range. One lone angler was observed this past weekend on the lake shore at Trout Run with a calm lake all to himself catching fish after fish. Single eggs, sucker spawn patterns, egg sacs, and minnows are all popular spring baits. Time will only tell if we are going to enjoy a strong spring Steelhead run. Now is the time to check that tackle for opening day. Reels should be spooled with fresh line, and hooks should be checked for sharpness.

Smolts are all through out the tribs now and should not be confused with the stocked trout. Smolts are normally in the 6 to 7 inch length and are the future of our Steelhead fishing. Hooked smolts should be handled carefully and gently released unharmed as quickly as possible.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards

Easter Sunday was a lot busier than I had anticipated but I got around to many different spots, here we go.
The public dock continues to produce very good catches of perch in the morning. One gentleman had a perch that measured roughly 15 inches and went better than a pound and a half.
Pier 1 across from Cascade Condos showed a small catch of Crappie. So all of the regular haunts of the Bayfront are producing in the morning.

Presque Isle State Park.
Perch fishing at marina bay was fast and furious while I was there but a large number of the catch were undersize perch, not that there were not keepers in between. Same for the west pier in the park.
Crappie fishing at the boat livery was very productive with some limits being taken.
All of this info regarding catches does not apply after about 1:00 p.m. I got a chance to go and patrol the park later on in the afternoon on Easter and the fishing had remarkably dropped off.

Two recent bass tournaments at PISP have shown poor results. Last weekend there was a catch of 1 Bass which landed the fisherman first, second and third place. This weekend while I was present there were no reported catches. I should say that I did not stay until all of the boats were in but it didn't look good.

Edinboro Lake.
The fingers in Peninsula Park continue to be hit and miss for panfish but it is always a good place to try.

ERIE FORECAST
Tuesday night: Cloudy with rain likely. A thundershower is possible as well, especially early. Low near 35F. Winds WSW 10 to 15 mph. Rainfall around a half an inch.
Wednesday: A steady light rain in the morning tapering to showers and becoming mixed with snow in the afternoon. High near 39F. Winds WNW 15 to 20 mph. Chance of precip 70%.
Wednesday night: Rain and snow showers in the evening tapering to snow showers late. Low near 25F. Winds WNW 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precip 40%.
Thursday: A few clouds from time to time. High around 37F. Winds NW 10 to 15 mph.
Thursday (24 hours): Partial sunshine. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the mid 20s.
Friday (24 hours): Chance of a few snow showers. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the mid 20s.
Saturday (24 hours): Chance of a few snow showers. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the mid 20s.

EASTERN-ERIE COUNTY FISHING REPORT / WCO Mark Kerr

Stocking duties in Northwestern-Warren County continue to take a big bite out of the weeks routine. However, here's a bit of information regarding the East-side tributaries…
Given the amount of rain that fell on Friday (03-29-02), all the tributaries were running swift, high and very muddy. As of today (04-02-02) there appears to be some improvement in the conditions of the streams. Information I have received from local anglers seems to point to a slackening of Steelhead activity. Many anglers report that their recent catches have long been in the streams and evidence of fresh runs are diminishing. Also, many anglers have begun catching suckers, in addition to the smolts that were recently placed in many of the streams.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake- Fishing has returned to the lake this week with crappies and walleye being caught. The water still isn't warm enough for a major spring run, it was 42 degrees as of today (4/2/2002) but some lucky anglers have reported limiting out. The place to be right now seems to be the spillway for walleyes and anywhere around structure or warmer water for the crappies. Walleye are hitting on minnies and sonars being jigged at the spillway and the crappies seem to be finding minnies and jigs tipped with bait under a bobber appealing. Fishermen are reminded that Linesville creek from the mouth to the railroad bridge north of route 6 and Findley/Paden creek from the mouth to route 6 are designated as nursery waters and you are not even allowed to possess fishing gear on the banks. Boaters should also remember that the registrations for 2002 are now expired and you should have the new 2004 displayed. If the weather stays good I would look for this weekend to be very productive for fishing all around the lake, also don't forget to stop and see me and say HI at the open house at the hatchery on Saturday.

Conneaut Lake- No activity to report from hear as I was gone over the weekend for the holiday and when I checked it tonight there was no one there. The canal at the North end should start picking up for crappie as long as the weather keeps getting warmer.

Hook: Daiichi #1530, sizes #14-#8

Thread: Danville, fluorescent red, 6/0

Body: For a size #10 hook, secure a piece of chartreuse Glo Bug Yarn and one piece of flame Glo Bug MicroYarn together just behind the hook eye. The exact thickness of the chartreuse Glo Bug Yarn piece used will vary according to the hook size (less for a smaller fly, more for a larger fly). Each piece is about 3 inches long, with the flame piece positioned on the top of the chartreuse. Working backward, starting just behind the hook eye, make three segments out of the yarn with the thread finishing at the bend. Next, take the thread and work forward, wrapping diagonally over each segment once (creating the scrambled eggs effect), and whip finishing at the eye. Cut surplus yarn at the hook eye and bend to form “head” and “tail”. The addition of flame Glo Bug Micro Yarn to this fly creates an appealing bloodline effect.

Comment: This fly is especially effective in high, stained-colored water and can be tied in a number of color combinations such as flame/steelhead orange, flame/baby pink and flame/egg.

STEELHEAD TIP

When using a floating indicator it is often necessary to “fine tune” the drift of the fly depending on the water conditions (flow, clarity, depth and temperature). This is accomplished by adjusting the amount of split shot used, split shot to fly distance, floating indicator to fly distance, tippet size and floating indicator size. These slight changes can keep your fly drifting naturally (at or just above the stream bottom) resulting in more steelhead hook-ups.

20 Mile Creek

20 Mile Creek at Rt. 20

20 Mile Creek at Rt. 5

Mouth of 4 Mile Creek

Fresh Steelhead taken by Harrisburg angler fishing single eggs.

High winds continue to hit the lake shore.

Lake-effect snows don't stop the fishermen.

Click report title for complete WCO Report

Current Conditions
Recent severe weather has again swelled the tribs. Snow melt off and predicted rain and mild temperatures should keep most areas high and stained for the next few weeks. Anglers have been doing very well at the "mud hole" at the Elk Creek access all the way up to the boat launch. When water clarity permits, single eggs and single egg artificials have been producing fresh fish. Anglers are still crowding the Manchester Hole. Fresh fish are scattered through out the Project waters at Walnut all the way to the end of the wall. Anglers will now be hooking smolts and are asked to use all the care possible to release them safely.

Some opening day suggestions:
Tackle:
Light or ultra light spinning or spincast reels filled with two to four lb. test line are best suited for our area streams. Closed faced reels work best for the kids to avoid tangles. Rods should be no longer than six feet (five feet is better) so you can keep your bait out of trees and away from others while casting. Tie a short shank, size 10 to 14 hook and add one or two small (size BB or bird seed) split shot 12-18 inches above the hook. The removable type split shot works better as it allows you to change weights easily. If you are using larger baits like whole nightcrawlers, larger hooks (size 6 or 8) might work better. Float the bait under a small float just large enough to carry the bait. Large floats do little more than spook the fish and make it difficult to detect strikes. Adjust the float to keep the bait near the bottom, or as deep as possible at the Gravel Pit Pond

Bait:
Popular trout baits include corn, red worms, nightcrawlers, crickets, salmon eggs (fresh cured or jarred types in different colors), the powerbaits, marshmallows and emerald shiners (everyone has a favorite secret weapon). Try a variety of baits in case the trout are finicky (and they usually are.) Put just enough bait on to just cover the hook, but do not go overboard. For example, on a size 10 hook use: a) one or two pieces of corn or, b) one cricket or, c) one red worm d) one or two salmon eggs or, e) one-third to one-half of a nightcrawler or a single minnow. Typically the smaller the presentation, the better. It doesn't hurt to watch what the guy catching all the fish is using either (My favorite technique).

Techniques:
The key to catching trout is to "read" a stream for good spots and then "present" your bait in a natural manner. "Read" the water for spots that offer trout a place to hide from predators while watching for food to drift by. Trout are usually found near the bottom in pools and in slower "pockets" around rocks, boulders. or submerged trees.
Stand downstream of a spot you think a trout might be. "Present" your bait by casting several feet upstream of the target area. Let the bait drift downstream into the target area while slowly reeling in the slack line. If your bait does not tick along the bottom, add more weight to the line. If your bait hangs up on the bottom. take some weight off. Cast two or three times into the same spot. If you do not get a bite, change baits or try a different area if possible. A stop in the downstream drift of your line along with a sharp tap in your line signals a bite. Give the fish a second or two at most to take the bait, then pull back on the rod and set the hook. A strong set is not necessary if you are using sharp hooks. The Gravel Pit Pond in Fairview is literally a mined out gravel pit and as such is quite deep and pending weather, very clear. Small baits with very light line should be fished deep under a float or without any float at all. With a little patience, you may be rewarded with a tough fight from a beautiful brown trout!

Etiquette
Cooperation and consideration in crowded fishing areas will make for a great day of angling for all. Be especially considerate of younger anglers .....we were all young once.....and please police your area for litter before leaving.
Good Luck!!

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO TOM EDWARDS
Well, that time of the year is just about upon us. Preseason stocking is well underway and trout season is within reach. Recently I assisted WCO Kerr with a preseason stocking on Brokenstraw Ck in Warren County. I will not leave Erie again to help WCO Kerr in Warren County because it was the worst possible day in the world to stock fish. Three degrees above zero when we met in Spring Creek and virtual white out conditions. Now that Kerr knows he is on his own next year let us get down to the fishing report.
Once again the weather is all over the place. Fishing for crappie has pretty much shut down on the Bayfront with this cold snap. Early morning perch at the Dobbins Landing remains productive. I did receive reports of crappie being caught at the canoe rental in Presque Isle. As always if you are willing to brave the cold Steelhead fishing remains open and productive, (for the most part). I wish I had more to report as far as hot spots but everyone knows what the weather has been like.

ERIE FORECAST
Wednesday: Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. High near 35F. Winds WNW 15 to 20 mph.
Wednesday night: Partly cloudy. Low around 22F. Light SSW winds.
Thursday: Partly cloudy. High around 42F. Winds SSW 10 to 15 mph.
Thursday (24 hours): Partial sunshine. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the low 30s.
Friday (24 hours): Mix of rain and snow. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the upper 20s.
Saturday (24 hours): Mostly cloudy with snow showers. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the mid 30s.

EASTERN ERIE COUNTY / WCO MARK KERR

SPRING HAS SPRUNG??
OK, just to be sure ... it is spring, right?? Officially and the like too,
right??!! 'Less something changes real soon, you can forget about that 'in
like a lion...out like a lamb' ditty.
Anyhow, given my schedule this last week, I really haven't had much
opportunity to be streamside [firearms instructing, meetings/programs and,
'lest I forget to mention, trout stocking. Yes, trout stocking ... don't
forget, I have part of Warren County too. I can, however, pass on that
the Eastside tributaries are still producing numbers of nice Steelhead and
anglers at Lake Pleasant have been catching healthy amounts of both rainbow
and brown trout. Many of those fishing Lake Pleasant have been doing so
from shore and have been seeing best results at a depth of 8'-13' +/-.
Additionally, I have noticed the most of the trout harvesting appears to be
happening from early morning until around lunch or so.

Western Crawford County / WCO JOE RUSSELL
Pymatuning Lake- Mother nature has played a cruel trick on all the spring fishermen here at the lake this week with the 4"-6" of snow that we got and all the cold weather the fish have shut right down. I spoke to the hatchery today as well and they have had very slow results as well with all the nets they have out today's catch totals were 8 walleye, 2 crappie, and 1 perch. The shore fishermen and boaters I have checked have also had the same results, I haven't checked any fish in over a week. I have checked numerous boats however and had multiple violations due to the fact that "this was our maiden voyage and we just needed to get out" this time of year more than ever you should have all your safety gear and equipment, that water is extremely cold. If you are in the area on April 6 I will be at the hatchery for open house doing a law enforcement display, stop by and say Hi.

Conneaut lake- I checked some fishermen here on sunday who had gone out at first light and were just coming in around 4 pm, they relayed that not only had they not gotten a single hit all day long but they had to break the ice out of the channel at the north end of the lake before they could try to fish. Needless to say they were not happy and fishing has slowed down here as well.

STEELHEAD REPORT (by John Nagy) (3/20/02):

The Walnut Creek Boat Basin has been supplying a great area to fish for steelhead with easy access & wheelchair accessibility.

A packed house of 75+ at the Steelhead Association meeting with Erie officers & Joe Russell from Western Crawford County PFBC giving a presentation on the need for a Fishing License increase.

Time restrictions still exist in the yellow area being closed to fishing from 10PM till 5 AM until the Trout Opener. The white sections are open 24/7 except for 32 hrs. prior to the Opening of Trout at 8 AM

Will your Boat be registered for Trout Season Opener??
Boat registrations run for a two year period but expire on March 31st. Every year, anglers go to use their boat for the opening day of trout season only to find that they forgot to send in their renewal. The calls I usually receive state that they never got the form in the mail... I usually tell them to check on top of the refrigerator where most are placed & forgotten. If this has happened to you... the quickest way to be legal for Opening Day is to phone the PFBC's toll-free number at 1-866-262-8734 and pay for the renewal by credit card. Do it now while there is still time.

CENTRAL ERIE COUNTY / WCO Tom Edwards
This week has been quite productive on the bayfront. Checks of Sassafras Street pier have shown nice catches of perch, not fast limits but they are there if you want to put some time in. Niagara pier on the other hand is producing some crappie and most recently the hotspot is the lagoons by the canoe rental. Watch for an increase in temp for the crappie to turn on at that location. Edinboro Lake or more so Peninsula Park is showing a continuing trend in the production of panfish, with increased catches of perch. Of course the Steelhead fishing is still open and doing well.

Western Crawford / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake- Walleye were being caught from boats on Saturday by some die hard fishermen who went out first thing in the morning and fished all day until they were checked by me at sunset. Out of 4 boats 2 had fish one had a 19 incher and the other had 2 15 inchers. Both reported the fish were taken at about 16 feet of water and both were using sonars when they got lucky. Crappies and perch were also being caught on Saturday at both the spillway and the rock wall in front of the entrance to the Game Commission Museum parking lot. The preferred bait seemed to be floating a minnie under a bobber. Since Saturday and with the storm and cold front that came through with it the fish have shut right off and I haven't seen any fish taken in the last 3 days. The hatchery just started setting trap nets in the main lake on Monday and after only one day and 8 nets being set they were able to catch 55 walleye and 5 musky, as well as some other species. 85% of the catch were 15 inches with the largest measuring 19". The musky were much larger with the size ranging from 33 inches to 391/2 inches. I also spoke to the state park and as of Friday all boat docks should be in for easier access and quite a few of the restroom facilities are open. The question of Horsepower limit was also decided on and I have included a copy of the news release.

Included in complete WCO Report.

Conneaut Lake- Crappies, Perch, and Blue gills were being caught on the northern end of the lake by fishermen in the canal. The bait of choice here was varied from minnies, mealworms, and jigs but all were being floated under a bobber. These fish have also shut down since the last cold front came through and it doesn't look like it will be getting much better with highs in the 20's predicted for Friday.

Click title for complete WCO Report

Sandbar at the mouth of Walnut Creek

Close up view of sandbar

Channel sandbar

Wall Cloud from front moving in

Seagulls hunkering down in storm

Debris washed on shore at WCAA

Click report for complete WCO Report

Conditions
Milder temperatures are closing in on a potential spring run. Fish are highly scattered throughout all the tribs with a good sprinkling of fresh fish on their exploratory runs. A true spring run may be just around the corner with some warm days and a little rain. The tribs are at good levels and water clarity is about perfect. This time of year dictates a little more walking to find the fish but once they are located the angling can be spectacular. Good fishing can be found behind the Millcreek Mall off of Interchange Road, at the McKean Hole off of I-79, and the Struechan Flats areas. The access areas at Elk and Walnut creeks are still producing with very good fishing at the "mudhole" area at the mouth of Elk Creek.
Eggsacs in a variety of colors, shiners, and the powerbaits have been popular this past week. Higher water levels and current water clarity will allow heavier test line and slightly larger hooks to land that wallhanger.
The mud line along the lakeshore is still present and can hinder fishing the Trout Run and Godfrey Run beaches, however as it subsides fishing activity should be very productive.

Eastern-Erie / WCO Mark Kerr
Mother Nature still can't seem to make up her mind; isn't that typical for
here in northwestern PA. Last Saturday, 03-03-02, I located one ice-hut on
the far eastern edge of Eaton Reservoir and, I believe, there were about
three on Lake Pleasant. Additionally, in recent weeks I encountered two
ice fishemen on Lake Leboeuf, in the center of the lake, near the island.
This Saturday, 03-09-02, both Eaton and Leboeuf were void of ice fishermen.
However, as Spring approaches both these lakes hold promise. Eaton has
plentiful numbers of pike, bass and walleye. All three species seem to
favor the weedier areas surrounding much of the reservoir. Walleye seem,
of the three, to be the least plentiful; yet, several of the locals have
good luck during the spring casting plugs. I've checked several bass,
usually later in the spring, that play out in the 4 to 4.5+ # range. As
for pike, I must be honest, the vast majority appear to be in the 19"-21"
range; however, there seems to be more of the beggars' than you can shake a
stick at. How many's that?? I don't know... but I'm guessin' lots!!

Central Erie County Weekly Fishing Report / WCO Tom Edwards
Once again the weather is all over the place and so is the fishing. On our recent 70 degree day there was a fair number of crappie being caught at the #1 pier on the Bayfront. I checked two of the people who were fishing that day and they said that it has now shut off. Perch at Dobbins Landing has been hit and miss in the morning and the South Pier had a limited number of fisherpersons as well as a light catch. Edinboro lake is for the most part now ice free. One person this morning had caught a largemouth but nothing else. Now for the good news. The Steelhead fishing is still fair with all central county streams open and fishable. Four Mile creek has seen an increase in the number of anglers and the take has not been too bad. Just a reminder that in Edinboro this Wednesday at 9:15 at the F.D. Walker building we will be meeting for the first central county pre-season stocking. The stream will be Conneauttee Ck which will receive some rainbow and brown trout.

Western Crawford / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake- Crappies were the fish of the day Saturday with a live well of six being checked on a boat out of Wilson launch. The lucky fisherman said he also caught several others but only wanted to keep enough for a meal. One of them that I measured was over 14 inches and well over a pound and the rest was very close. Green and red tube jigs that were very small in size were the bait of choice. Today (Tuesday) several fishermen were having luck with perch in the 5 to 6 inch range at the spillway using jigs (sonar’s) in chartreuse and lime green. No real walleye activity as of yet the water temp on Saturday at 10 feet was 39 degrees and the surface temp was 42. Still a little cold but the trap nets just went in the nursery lake so we are getting close to walleye season.
Conneaut Lake- No real activity here yet, only a few shore fishermen and no reported catches yet. Some Crappie activity was reported around the north end however that was short lived after the last cold front came through.

Weather / Stream / Fishing Conditions...
We have experienced it all from 50 mph winds, lake effect snow, rain, ice, sun (that was all this afternoon) Should be great for the weekend, Erie tribs remain open to angling and temps forecast in the 60's should melt the snow cover perhaps prompting some fresh runs.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards
(Tom was a bit burnt out from working his first show this past weekend so we made him the "weather man")
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy skies early will become partly cloudy later in the day. High around 49F. Winds SW 20 to 25 mph.
Wednesday night: Cloudy. Low around 38F. Winds SSW 10 to 15 mph.
Thursday: Cloudy with occasional rain showers. High near 45F. Winds S 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precip 60%.
Thursday (24 hours): Chance of showers. Highs in the mid 40s and lows in the mid 30s.
Friday (24 hours): More clouds than sun. Highs in the mid 50s and lows in the low 40s.
Saturday (24 hours): Mostly cloudy, periods of rain. Highs in the low 60s and lows in the upper 20s.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake- The Lake has been slow of activity this week due to inclement weather, and I have seen no boat activity at all since my last report. The recent cold front that has moved through and is currently in the area has also put a fresh layer of skim ice on the lake so boating will be hampered until we have a little warmer weather.

Conneaut Lake- I did get a chance to interview two of my more die hard fishermen on Conneaut Lake, Saturday at the southern end of the lake, and they relayed to me that they had caught a few nice crappies during the week however with the new front moving in all the fish had shut right down. I have to give them credit though even with as cold as it was they were still out there trying. The recent cold snap has also played havoc with this lake as well and as of today (Tuesday 3/5/2002) the lake is about seventy-five percent frozen over with very thin ice.

Crystal Lake- As of today is completely frozen over however it is only at most a half an inch of ice, just enough to hamper boating.

Go to report for complete WCO Report

See the WCO's at the March Sportsmen meetings to learn what anglers can do to help stop this activity.

Perch anglers on Marina Lake piers / Presque Isle Park

"Flying Saucer" on the Erie Bayfront (Erie Transmodal Hub)

Walnut Creek behind the Millcreek Mall

Fresh Steelhead being caught on lower Walnut

Fresh fish continue to come in

Tribs
Steelhead have been observed well into the upper ends of the tribs. While numbers of fish there don't compare to the lower ends, there is minimal activity there. The area behind the Millcreek Mall has some fish with the large hole just upstream of the old Ames Store being the best spot. Nice fish are at the McKean (I-79) Hole on Elk. Anglers should know that the hole is 17' deep and fish it accordingly.

March Fishing
This is usually an exciting month for the tribs. While the Approved Trout Waters close throughout PA, the tribs remain open until 32 hours prior to the start of the Trout Opener. A few people have mentioned on the discussion boards that the streams being open detracts from the excitement of Opening Day. In past years, there was a 2 week closure where it was "worms only/suckers only". Officer observations found only a handful of actual sucker anglers with the balance being "fly fishing trout anglers being forced to use worms". The other flaw in this practice was that technically, anglers could fish right up to the 8 AM opener start time if they were using worms and stating they were fishing for suckers. Through public comment & the PFBC's committment to provide the maximum fishing opportunity to our license buyers, the regs were changed to give us these extra weeks of terrific steelheading. True, there is a lessening of the "hype" but would you go without eating anything for two weeks just so your next meal would seem extra special?
Lake Pleasant & the Fairview Gravel Pit remain open to fishing until April 1st when they then close until the Opening Day of Trout.

March Activities
This Saturday (March 2nd) is a litter clean up of the tribs. Volunteers are meeting at the Walnut Access Area at 10 AM. Many plan some angling afterwards with free wings & drinks at the Avonia Tavern for the workers compliments of the "FishUSA" website. The Erie Outdoor Expo is also running this weekend (March 1,2,&3) and offers a nice diversion after fishing.
A public meeting will be hosted by State Representative John Evans on Monday, March 4 at Fairview High School. This event, held from 7 to 9 p.m. at Fairview High School, Route 98 South, will provide an excellent opportunity for anglers to acquire details about the Fish and Boat Commission's operations, which are funded almost entirely from sales of fishing licenses and boat registrations.
March 13th is the Pa Steelhead Association meeting with Erie WCO's & DWCO's along with WCO Joe Russell from Western Crawford giving a presentation on reporting violations, the Deputy Program, and the proposed license increase needs. These topics will also be presented at the Elk Valley Sportsmen Club meeting on March 14th & the S.O.N.S. meeting on March 25th. We are looking forward to direct questions & discussion on a wide array of items. Hopefully, these will provide an insight into conservation law enforcement, provide a better understanding of the PFBC financial needs, and secure some deputy applicants.

Safe Boating Courses
If you missed the class held this week, a list of upcoming classes may be found on the PFBC website.
http://sites.state.pa.us/PA_Exec/Fish_Boat/pfbchom2.html

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards
Early morning fishing at the public dock and at Marina lake has been sporadic for perch as of late. Waterworks dock continues to produce steelhead in the morning. Four Mile remains open with limited pressure observed. With March here we should see increased runs of steelhead and plenty of fishing opportunity while the rest of the state sleeps. Lake temp is currenty in the low forties and lake effect snow is forecast for the next few days. For those interested the Erie Sports Show will be March 1, 2, and 3rd - stop out and see your local WCO's. March also brings about pre-season stocking of trout. The central district pre-season stocking will be that of Conneauttee Creek and Waterworks pond. Edinboro Lake is still seeing some limits of panfish especially bluegill taken in the fingers, check ice conditions before your trip. Mother nature is playing games with us again but the water is still too cold to swim in. Safety Tip - Wear Your PFD While Icefishing.

Erie Forecast
Wednesday: Cloudy with occasional snow showers more frequent later. Quite windy. Temps nearly steady in the upper 20s. Winds W 25 to 35 mph and gusty. Chance of precip 60%. Snow may accumulate near one inch.
Wednesday night: Occasional snow showers. Low near 18F. Winds W 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precip 60%. Snow accumulations less than one inch.
Thursday: Becoming partly cloudy later with any flurries or snow showers ending by noontime. High around 30F. Winds SW 15 to 20 mph. Chance of precip 50%.
Thursday (24 hours): Snow showers early. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the upper teens.
Friday (24 hours): Snow showers. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the low 20s.
Saturday (24 hours): Rain mixed with snow. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the mid 20s.

Eastern Erie County / WCO Mark Kerr
Many Eastern-Erie tributaries continue to hold good populations of
Steelhead, especially Twentymile in its upper reaches nearer the New York
State Line.
Eaton Reservoir has produced some harvests of Crappies, particularly in
that area nearest the east end of the impoundment.
Lake Pleasant, stocked with trout again just last week, has been producing
good numbers of browns. Lake Pleasant, as of its last stocking, had an ice
covering of 4"+; in my opinion, the best conditions of the season thus far
for that immediate area. However, given this week's rising temperatures,
that thickness, as well as for all local impoundments, has been
significantly reduced. Good news though, the ole' weather channel is
calling for much colder temperatures throughout the remainder of this week
and into the weekend. No doubt a welcome change of pace for all you
ice-fishing enthusiasts.
French Creek has continued to draw some Walleye fishing attention; however,
contacts have shown minimal numbers in terms of harvest at this time.
At a recent meeting, the subject of the 2002 Salmon/Steelhead smolt
allocation for the Eastern-Erie area was brought to the floor. Numbers are
not yet final; however, it appears that Twentymile is set for reallocation
with increased numbers scheduled for planting. As the Bureau of Fisheries
issues a release, more details shall follow.
Pollution reports have begun to increase within the far-eastern portion of
the district. Personnel have been actively pursuing remediation to a 3+
mile stretch of Winton Run, within Concord Township, which was temporarily
affected by sedimentation run-off. Restitution efforts are currently in
progress; and, the 'responsible party' has been actively involved in a
cooperative effort to abate further erosion and sedimentation occurrences.

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake- The ice is gone and boating has started however I haven’t seen to much activity or success. The only ones out so far braving the cold have been the die hards and people with cabin fever. A lot of phone calls have been coming in about dead fish floating around the edge of the lake and in the out flow, these are gizzard shad and this is a yearly occurrence due to the change in temperature. These are basically forage fish and are not as able to take the change as other fish are. It is definitely nothing to worry about though.

Conneaut Lake- No activity has been noted here for the last week and I have heard from no fishermen with tales of success so not much to report for here this week.

Shenango River/ Pymatuning Outflow- I have seen a couple of walleye taken here so far, both of which were legal fish. The female was full of eggs however they were hard and green yet and not ready for a spawning run. The bait of choice is definitely Minnie’s here or jig heads tipped with Minnie’s.

Fishermen are reminded that as of this Friday / March 1 the Linesville Creek and Paden/Findley Creek are designated as nursery waters and fishing is prohibited. This remains in effect until April 14.

Additional picture of elbow room on upstream stretches of Walnut Creek

Additional picture of elbow room on upstream stretches of Walnut Creek

Project Waters

Manchester Hole

Photograph & release anglers in a snowstorm

Public Hearing on Fishing License Increase...
Learn about the wealth of fishing in Pennsylvania and discuss the importance of its role from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission at public meeting hosted by State Representative John Evans Monday, March 4 at Fairview High School.
This event, held from 7 to 9 p.m. at Fairview High School, Route 98 South, will provide an excellent opportunity for anglers to acquire details about the Fish and Boat Commission's operations, which are funded almost entirely from sales of fishing licenses and boat registrations.
The meeting format will include an overview of the agency highlights, fiscal needs, and explain the benefits of raising licensing and trout/salmon stamp fees. There will be ample time for audience members to comment and ask questions.
Our rich water resources benefit more than just those seeking recreation - they also support related businesses in Pennsylvania with $2 billion each year.
Anglers, local business owners, environmentalists, and the general public all benefit from the Commission's programs … your presence & comments are needed on this critical license increase issue.

Safe Boating Class...
The scheduled class for the 25th & 26th of February is full & closed to any further registration. If you missed your chance, call 814-336-2426 for additional classes that may be scheduled in your area or to find out about alternative methods.

Erie County...
We have World Class Steelhead, Smallmouth, & Walleye fisheries that draw thousands into our county on a regular basis. This draw provides business revenue through the sales of bait, fishing gear, gasoline, ice, hotel rooms, meals, groceries, alcohol, etc... These sales thus provide jobs in the service industry. Even through financial hard times of its own, the Fish & Boat Commission has recognized the value of the Erie resource and invested into the area.
As a WCO assigned to Western Erie County, I recently reviewed the investments made here as well as across the state while pondering my thoughts on the proposed license increase. Off the top of my head I came up with the following:
... support to the cooperative nurseries supplying Steelhead, put & take trout, perch, etc...
... improvements in the Walnut Creek Access Area
... support in the Walnut Creek Project Waters
... additional stockings added for Waterworks Pond & Cascade Creek
... development of the North East Marina
... purchase & improvements to the Elk Creek Property
... developing Conneaut Creek as a Steelhead water with future stockings planned
... on the front lines in maintaining public access to our waters
... providing youth programs at no charge (P.L.A.Y.)
... providing free Boat Safety Classes
... providing officers the latitude necessary to maximize their effectiveness
... providing assistance in fish habitat projects for Presque Isle Bay
We all tend to remember negative things in looking back ... the least we can do are think of some positives that were perhaps taken for granted.

FAQ's...
Q: When do the Gravel Pit & Lake Pleasant close to fishing?
A: Both close at the end of March as they are in the Winter Stocked Lakes Program providing an extra month of fishing opportunity

Q: When do the Lake Erie Tributaries close?
A: The tribs only close for the 32 hours immediately preceding the Trout Opener. This provides anglers some fantastic spring run Steelhead fishing while all other trout waters are closed from Mar. 1 till the opener.

Q: When will the Walnut Creek Channel be dredged?
A: Dredging usually is completed immediately prior to May 15th. Earlier attempts to dredge have usually found the channel to fill up again from spring storms. New equipment of the PFBC should provide a quality job that will last the season.

Q: If I see a violation, how can I report it to an officer?
A: There are a variety of ways. To get a complete answer, attend one of the following sportsmen club meetings in March: Pa. Steelhead Assoc. / March 13th, Elk Valley Sportsmen Club / March 14th, or the S.O.N.S. of Lake Erie / March 25th. Topics will be violation reporting, Deputy Program, and PFBC Proposed License Increase.

Fairview Gravel Pit ...
is scheduled for stocking this week. The size limit is 7" and a total of 3 trout may be taken. This water & Lake Pleasant will be open through the month of March.
The Gravel Pit has open water and is suitable for boating. PFD requirements will be rigidly checked & enforced. They should always be worn but especially in a small boat in cold water.

Eastern Erie County / WCO Mark Kerr
Lake Pleasant is stocked this week. Observations are that ice thickness is 5" but rain & warm temperatures can quickly erode it. Use caution, fish with a buddy, & wear a PFD

Eaton Reservoir has some shore ice of questionable quality but open water is present in the middle.

French Creek is open with anglers trying for walleye at it's juncture with Conneautee. No catches have been personally observed by officers.

Erie Forecast...
Wednesday: Rain likely. High near 50F. Winds S 15 to 20 mph. Rainfall around a half an inch.
Wednesday night: Showers early becoming less numerous late. Low around 36F. Winds SSW 15 to 20 mph. Chance of precip 50%.
Thursday: Showers in the morning tapering to some sprinkles in the afternoon. High around 39F. Winds WSW 15 to 20 mph. Chance of precip 40%.
Thursday (24 hours): Showers ending by midday. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the low 20s.
Friday (24 hours): Snow showers ending by midday. Highs in the mid 30s and lows in the upper teens.
Saturday (24 hours): Mix of rain and snow showers. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the mid 30s.

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards
Conditions ...
Erie Tribs in the central district remain open to Steelhead fishing; current trips to 4 Mile have shown very light fishing pressure.
Dobbins Landing is producing perch in the very early morning hours and then again in the late evening
Presque Isle State Park @ the Water Taxi Dock is producing Steelhead in the morning along with small Perch.
Ice on Edinboro Lake is moderate at best. The fingers are fishable and if you want to get out and enjoy some ice fishing the panfish (bluegill) catch has been fair along with smaller perch.
Be advised that keeping Gizzard Shad or more so throwing them up on the ice not only counts toward your creel but is also a violation concerning unlawful disposition. These are a part of the Northern Pike, Musky and Walleye forage base. Please return them unharmed if you are not going to keep them.

Snowmobiles & ATV's
There is now a new toll-free number to call with questions on registration of these vehicles. 1-866-545-2476

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell
Pymatuning Lake- there is just enough ice to prevent boating and not enough to allow ice fishing on the lake right now. A couple of fishermen were interviewed at the spillway just before writing this and they relayed that they have had no success at all yet. Good news for all anglers using the lake, RICHTERS on Rt. 322 just south of the lake is open again for business. They have a supply of baitfish and are getting more store supplies in every day.

Conneaut Lake- This Lake is mostly open water however I have not witnessed anyone on it fishing at all. If you have been fishing there and have a story of success or failure please feel free to let me know so I can pass it on.

Shenango River- Outflow to Pymatuning Lake has been really slow lately with only a couple of guys saying they caught fish here last week. Prior to writing this I interviewed over a dozen people on the stream and no one had any fish or reported having fish on, they all say it has been real slow.

Ice Free Presque Isle Bay

Conditions
West County tribs remain swollen and with predicted precipitation should remain high for a while. The Walnut Project waters again have good numbers of fish in all the holes and the Manchester hole has been producing some fresh fish. Anglers are fishing the wall and the marina basin at the Walnut access with success. Popular baits seem to change daily with tipped mini foo jigs, skein, and live shiners doing the job. Action has been very good at the hole near the Mckean exit on I-79. A good crowd was observed there this past Sunday. The far upper reaches of both Elk and Walnut Creeks should be producing nicely now with fish scattered throughout all the popular areas. Calm days at the mouth of Trout Run leave plenty of elbow room for those that enjoy fishing the lake shore. Spinner baits along with Cleos are a good choice along the lake shore when the fishing pressure is light. Perch and panfish are still a good choice along the Bayfront on the south side of Presque Isle bay especially near Dobbins landing with live shiners the choice presentation.

Safe Boating Course - Only a few weeks left to sign up, and its filling up fast.
A PFBC Basic Boating Course is scheduled for February 25th and 26th. (Mon. & Tues.) from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. at the Nature Center on Presque Isle (Stull Interpretive Center). This looks as though it is going to be a large class with provisions being made to handle all that are interested. This is an eight hour course that covers the basics of boating safety. Materials are provided and there is no cost for the class. This is a great course for the beginning boater or to freshen up your boating skills. Successful completion of the course earns the participant a boaters safety certificate as required for personal watercraft operation. To register you can email Officers Bowser or Leighton at Jwb014@aol.com or Rglerie@aol.com or you may call 774-0928 leaving your name, # of people attending, & a return phone #.

Erie Outdoor Sport and Travel Expo 2002
The Erie Outdoor Sport and Travel Expo will be held March 1, 2nd, and 3d at the Family First Sports Park...Interstate 90 at the Peach Street exit. This is the largest event of its kind in the Erie area always delivers a wealth of exhibits, information, and the latest in hunting and angling products. Local area sports clubs along with state and national organizations round out the displays assuring a great way to break out of the cabin fever. Local officers from the Erie and surrounding areas will be on hand throughout the weekend manning the PFBC booth. Take the opportunity to stop by with your questions and comments or just to say hello. For more information you can email info@eriepromoandexpo.com or go to www.eriepromoandexpo.com/sportandtravel01.htm for show times, directions and details.

Fishing License Increase Needed... (Straight Talk)
No one likes price increases. WCO's & deputies also have to buy their own licenses (despite some rumors to the contrary) I did a little research on the Internet to check out the consumer price index to see how licenses compared.
Here are a few items and their percentage increase in price since 1962:
Hershey bar 1180%
New York Times 1100%
First class postage 700%
Hamburger (McDonald's double) 861%
Chevrolet (full size) 790%
License prices fell behind all of these. Your help is needed !! This isn't to say that you have to agree with all the programs and actions of the Commission. ( We all have our own focuses & pet projects.) Decisions are made for the common good always considering public comment, staff input, and the future of the resource. The way I see it ... the bottom line is this: Our fathers & Grandfathers did their part to make sure that this resource was here for us ... we have an obligation to make sure it is here for our kids and grand kids. Do your part ... call or write your local Legislator or Senator to tell them you support a Fishing License increase. ... jb

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards

Local Forecast:
Wednesday: Partly cloudy skies. High around 26F. Winds W 10 to 15 mph.
Wednesday night: Starlit skies. Low around 18F. Winds SSW 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday: Sunny early then partly cloudy later in the day. High around 38F. Winds SW 15 to 20 mph.
Thursday (24 hours): Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the low 30s.
Friday (24 hours): Mix of rain and snow showers. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the mid 20s.
Saturday (24 hours): Chance of a few snow showers. Highs in the mid 30s and lows in the low 20s.

Presque Isle Bay...
is ice free with only skim ice at the head. Burbot are being taken from the Erie Cannel on some days. This opportunity should continue the next few weeks. Several large shiners fished toward the bottom is the best bet for these great tasting fighters.

EASTERN ERIE / WESTERN WARREN FISHING REPORT / WCO Mark Kerr

PRESEASON STOCKING LIST **(correction from last report)**
[start time(s) needed to be adjusted, due to program error]

DATE WATER AREA MEETING PLACE & TIME

03-14 FRENCH-SOUTH BRANCH CORRY HATCHERY @ 8:30 AM

03-22 BROKENSTRAW CREEK SPRING CREEK VOLUNTEER FIRE HALL (SR 0426) @ 8:45 AM

03-25 SPRING CREEK SPRING CREEK VOLUNTEER FIRE HALL (SR 0426) @ 8:45 AM

03-27 LITTLE BROKENSTRAW LOTTSVILLE (SR 0957) @ 9:00 AM

04-01 BLUE EYE RUN COLUMBUS VOLUNTEER FIRE HALL (SR 0957) @ 8:45 AM

04-01 COFFEE CREEK COLUMBUS VOLUNTEER FIRE HALL (SR 0957) @ 8:45 AM

04-03 LAKE PLEASANT LAKE PLEASANT (SR 1001) @ 9:00 AM

04-12 TWENTYMILE CREEK EXIT 39 OFF I-79 (McKEAN) @ 10:00 AM

IN-SEASON STOCKING LIST:

WEEK OF WATER AREA SPECIES

04-15-02 TWENTYMILE BROWN

04-22-02 BROKENSTRAW BROWN & RAINBOW

04-22-02 FRENCH-SOUTH BRANCH BROWN & RAINBOW

04-29-02 LAKE PLEASANT BROWN & RAINBOW

04-29-02 TWENTYMILE BROWN

05-06-02 SPRING CREEK BROOK, BROWN & RAINBOW

05-06-02 LITTLE BROKENSTRAW BROOK, BROWN & RAINBOW

05-13-02 BLUE EYE BROOK & BROWN

12-02-02 LAKE PLEASANT BROWN & RAINBOW

02-10-03 LAKE PLEASANT BROWN & RAINBOW

ANTICIPATED EASTERN ERIE COUNTY COHO/STEELHEAD
STOCKING ALLOTMENT FOR 2002:

SPECIES WATER AREA ALLOTMENT (APX.)
COHO TWENTYMILE 5,000

STEELHEAD ORCHARD BEACH 25,000

STEELHEAD PECK RUN 5,000

STEELHEAD TWELVEMILE 25,000

STEELHEAD TWENTYMILE 20,000

TWENTYMILE STEELHEAD CONCERNS

During the month of January concerned anglers reported dead/distressed Steelhead within Twentymile Creek, especially in that area from the railroad tubes (Gulf Road) north to the I-90 overpass. Responding to those concerns, I would first like to thank those who reported their findings; continue with your observations, they are appreciated as well as investigated. Continuing, I have personally walked that entire section from inside New York and ending north of the I-90 overpass, below Hirtzel's Pond; additionally, I have reviewed that section remaining at various points. During this investigation there was no more than a handful of Steelhead that were found dead. This is not to say that the reports received were unfounded, only that at the time of my initial overall review, on 01-16-02, that mortality finding were minimal. Additionally, within several stretches, I observed numerous Steelhead scurry off, seemingly quite active and healthy.
I can report no findings of any apparent pollution -- be it sedimentation, industrial or residential discharge, etc. Water color, clarity and flow is/has been consistent with expected levels; given weather characteristics during this last month.
In short, I can offer no reason outside of normal environmental stresses (i.e.: water temperature variance, ice formation, genetics, etc.) that would be causing the type of behavior reported (i.e.: mortality and/or stiff, sluggish behavior).
If anyone has additional comments/concerns, or if anyone has information which would further investigation regarding this situation, please feel free to contact me at (814) 796-1378; or, you may e-mail WCO Bowser and I will, if requested, return reply as soon as possible. Thanks!!

Blizzard

Anglers can see where the saying "You should have been here yesterday" comes from.

And the Ice

Connellsville anglers George Roskos & Roy Thayer landed some real beauties last Sunday at Walnut Creek

White out conditions with high winds made for alot of elbow room. (mouth of Walnut)

Anglers calling it quits

Conditions
Winter is back with partial ice on most of the tribs although plenty open water is available at most all of the popular west county spots. The Manchester Hole and the Walnut basin have begun to ice over again with limited angling available. The Project waters remain somewhat ice free and are holding fish. A good number of fresh fish have been caught along the wall at the Walnut access...perhaps indicative of a good spring run. Lower Elk near the access is producing fresh fish as is the Lakeshore at Trout and Godfrey Runs..weather and waves permitting. Water clarity is good most everywhere there is open water. Popular baits this past weekend included skein, single eggs, and shiners.

Forecast for Erie
Wednesday: A few clouds from time to time. High around 38F. Winds SW 15 to 20 mph.
Wednesday night: Mostly clear early then partly cloudy overnight. Low around 31F. Winds SSW 10 to 15 mph.
Thursday: Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. High near 41F. Winds W 10 to 15 mph.
Thursday (24 hours): Clouds giving way to sunshine in the afternoon. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the upper 20s.
Friday (24 hours): Mostly cloudy. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the low 30s.
Saturday (24 hours): More clouds than sun. Highs in the mid 40s and lows in the low 30s.

Safe Boating Course - Only a few weeks left to sign up
A PFBC Basic Boating Course is scheduled for February 25th and 26th. (Mon. & Tues.) from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. at the Nature Center on Presque Isle (Stull Interpretive Center). This looks as though it is going to be a large class with provisions being made to handle all that are interested. This is an eight hour course that covers the basics of boating safety. Materials are provided and there is no cost for the class. This is a great course for the beginning boater or to freshen up your boating skills. Successful completion of the course earns the participant a boaters safety certificate as required for personal watercraft operation. To register you can email Officers Bowser or Leighton at Jwb014@aol.com or Rglerie@aol.com or you may call 774-0928 leaving your name, # of people attending, & a return phone #.
The PFBC has other convenient options to obtain a certificate ... you can check them out on line at: http://www.boat-ed.com/pa/index.htm

Other scheduled Erie Boating courses:
Erie USCG Auxiliary Boating Safely Poreco Center Erie 3/2/2002 8:30 AM Pat or Beth (814) 836-1955
Erie USCG Auxiliary Boating Safely Poreco Center Erie 3/16/2002 8:30 AM Pat or Beth (814) 836-1955
Erie USCG Auxiliary Boating Safely Poreco Center Erie 3/30/2002 8:30 AM Pat or Beth (814) 836-1955

Preseason Stockings / Western Erie County
Date ....................... Water Area ................... Meeting Place & Time
4/11/2002 Upper Gravel Pit Fairview Fish Culture Station - 09:45AM
4/12/2002 Crooked Creek I-79 at McKean Exit - 10:00AM
4/12/2002 Elk Creek I-79 at McKean Exit- 10:00AM

Central Erie County / WCO Tom Edwards

Fishing
Braving the coldest winter temperatures so far, anglers have been spotted on the North and South piers along the Erie Channel targeting Perch and Burbot. This can be a great alternative to our winter steelhead fishing and can produce some mouthwatering table fare. The bait of choice is shiners, especially the larger ones when targeting Burbot. Weighted perch or crappie rigs with tandem hooks work well. Perch and other panfish are being caught on calmer days along the Bayfront near the Dobbins Landing especially at daybreak and just before sunset. Crappie and other panfish can be targeted along the dock areas in Marina Bay at the park and off the wall near the Perry Monument.

Preseason Stockings / Central Erie County
Date ....................... Water Area ................... Meeting Place & Time
3/13/2002 Conneauttee Creek F D Walker Building , Erie St., Edinboro - 09:15AM
4/10/2002 Waterworks Pond Niagara Launch, Presque Isle State Park - 10:00AM
4/12/2002 Cascade Creek I-79 at McKean Exit - 10:00AM

Eastern Erie County -WCO Mark Kerr
Due to the constant temperature variations these past few weeks, many anglers whom I have spoken to have expressed considerable consternation over not being able to determine whether ice-huts or waders are the appropriate gear to utilize when heading out for a day of angling on area waters. Perhaps Mother Nature will even out her temperament and help remedy this dilemma in the near future.
Regardless, there have been areas of opportunity for the diligent angle. East County tribs, especially Sixteen and Twenty Mile Creeks, are still holding good numbers of Steelhead. Limited angling pressure can be found south of Route 20 through, and extending well into New York State. Sixteen Mile holds active numbers throughout the usual haunts, especially in that area around the falls, just northeast of the treatment plant on North Mill Road.
For those interested in casting their lines at the old fashioned inland trout, Lake Pleasant has been producing some success. Several Browns were harvested just prior to the warm up of last week. Additionally, this lake is scheduled for stocking with Rainbow Trout during the week of 02/18/2002. Heavy rains and snow melt have caused substantial increases to the water level of many local streams and impoundments. Many, at this time, are swift high and off color. Leboeuf, both the Lake and Creek, from Waterford through the junction with French Creek, has spread well into the flood plain. However, this has seemed to peak the interest of some local Walleye fishermen, as several have been seen as far south as the Crawford County line. Success, in terms of harvest, appears low; yet the opportunity for increased days afield has certainly presented itself. Additionally, PFBC personnel have been busy preparing for upcoming preseason stockings. Lastly, a minor timber harvesting operation along Orchard Beach Run, within Northeast Township, produced complaints from concerned citizens. Investigation revealed environmental/nursery water violations. Summary charges were filed against one party and recommendations for contact with the Erie Conservation District regarding implementation of appropriate environmental controls were addressed.

Preseason Stockings / Eastern Erie / Western Warren County
Date ....................... Water Area ................... Meeting Place & Time
3/14/2002 French Creek-South Branch Corry Hatchery - 08:30AM
3/22/2002 Brokenstraw Creek Spring Creek Volunteer Fire Hall (SR0426) - 08:45AM
3/25/2002 Spring Creek Spring Creek Volunteer Fire Hall (SR0426) - 08:45AM
3/27/2002 Little Brokenstraw Lottsville (SR0957) - 09:00AM
4/01/2002 Blue Eye Run Columbus Volunteer Fire Hall (SR0957) - 08:45AM
4/01/2002 Coffee Creek Columbus Volunteer Fire Hall (SR0957) - 08:45AM
4/03/2002 Lake Pleasant Lake Pleasant (SR1001) - 09:00AM
4/12/2002 Twenty Mile Creek I-79 at McKean Exit #39 - 10:00AM

Western Crawford County / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake- the winter festival was semi-successful with a fairly good crowd over the weekend unfortunately we had no snow or ice. As of last week we got open water on the entire lake due to the unseasonable temperatures and heavy rain. Some boats went out on Saturday but I haven't heard how anyone did. A lot of the old timers are telling me that when ice is off this early that it will make for poor spring fishing but we will just have to wait and see. Should you decide to boat remember to plan to prevent hypothermia and keep an eye on the weather because winter storms can come up quick here. I don't think winter is over yet but we are having a hard time making good ice due to the heavy winds we have been getting here. If we get ice again before the end of the season I will be sure to let you know.

Ice Free Niagara River

Niagara Falls

Bronze Plaque for the Walnut Creek Garden Anchor donated by Jim Rutkowski Sr.

Trout Run Photo

Trout Run Action

Although trib levels are high, the water is generally still clear making small presentations and light line a necessity. Live shiners continue to produce strikes but now is the time to try a variety of small jigs (jigs are made to imitate minnows). Maribou jigs in white, brown, chartreuse and olive are good choices. Trout worms in white and pink on a small jig hook can be deadly in the colder temperatures and can be jigged to trigger strikes. Glo balls and sucker spawn patterns are a good choice as well.

Safe Boating Course Reminder
A PFBC Basic Boating Course is scheduled for February 25th and 26th. (Mon. & Tues.) from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. at the Nature Center on Presque Isle (Stull Interpretive Center). This is an eight hour course that covers the basics of boating safety. Materials are provided and there is no cost for the class. This is a great course for the beginning boater or to freshen up your boating skills. Successful completion of the course earns the participant a boaters safety certificate as required for personal watercraft operation. To register you can email Officers Bowser or Leighton at Jwb014@aol.com or Rglerie@aol.com or you may call 774-0928 leaving your name, # of people attending, & a return phone #.

Employees honored for helping save boater
Five employees of the Walnut Creek Access Area & Erie County PFBC received awards Saturday in Harrisburg. The employees were recognized for their roles in saving an Altoona area man who was burned when his boat caught fire in Lake Erie off Walnut Creek in August.
Pennsylvania Waterways Conservation Officers Thomas Edwards and Mark Kerr were on patrol when they noticed smoke. The two officers pulled Samuel DelGrande of Cresson, Cambria County, from the water and transported him back to the Walnut Creek Access Area. Edwards and Kerr received the Fish and Boat Commission's Lifesaving Award which is the PFBC's highest honor.
Three others, including Waterways Conservation Officer John Bowser and Marilyn Soltis and Beverly Leighton, who both work in the office at Walnut Creek, will receive the commission's Outstanding Service Award for helping with the rescue. Soltis is an emergency medical technician and helped the others determine the medical needs of the fishermen during the rescue.
The accident happened when DelGrande and two companions were fishing. DelGrande was splashed with gasoline while he worked on the boat's fuel tank, and the gas ignited. An explosion set DelGrande on fire and sent flames throughout the boat. DelGrande suffered burns over 40 percent of his body.

Lack of ice ...
Warm temps have virtually cleared any ice from the lake. A recent trip to Canada found open water all the way to Niagara Falls. Open tribs and the late start to the runs have made it a great Steelhead season. The steady rains received this Tuesday will raise water levels and probably deliver fresh fish from the lake. The lake of protective ice dunes may cause beach erosion problems but these should be minimized by the low lake levels.

Walnut Creek Garden Project...
The project is gearing up for spring. The plaque was just completed for the anchor, a sign has been made & ready for installation, design has been completed for the wall, pavers sales continue to move along. If you haven't ordered your stone yet with your family or business name you can request an order form by contacting WCO Bowser at jwb014@aol.com and supplying your mailing address. One will be mailed to you for completion.

Western Crawford County Report / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning ...
Tuttle Point is closed do to weather & ice conditions. There is 2" to 3"
of ice on the reservoir but about half of that is slush. No fish are being caught according to my observations.

Conneaut Lake ...
From the Park to the South end is all open water. Boats were out over the weekend. A 100 yard patch of ice around the shoreline is very thin and basically unfishable.

Common Flies used for Steelhead but live minnows are the hot bait this week

Tim Heater & Kenny Bassinger of Connellsville both limited using minnows

Rege Grabowski & Larry Hilsem of McKeesport limited with live minnows

Huge Gravel Bar at the Mouth of Walnut Creek

Steelhead Fishing...
Current high temperatures have the streams open & flowing well. The 40" + of snow cover has been doing a slow melt off which will no doubt help the water table. Current observations (1/22/02) show that only anglers using live minnows were catching fish. The fish are all the way up the tribs and fresh runs will be making their way intermittently. A huge gravel bar is nearly blocking the mouth of Walnut but there is still plenty of room for incoming Steelhead.

Pa. Fishing Licenses ... Recreational fishing is important to Pennsylvania's economy. Its economic impact has been conservatively estimated at $1.35 billion per year. Recreational fishing supports nearly 17,000 jobs in Pennsylvania, and it contributes more than $50 million to the state’s General Fund in state sales and income taxes each year.
The year 2002 will be the seventh consecutive year where the cost of a fishing license has remained unchanged. It will be the twelfth consecutive year with no increase in the price of a trout stamp.
The Commission plans to participate in 10 to 15 sportsmen’s forums, some hosted by members of the General Assembly, during the first half of 2002. The Commission is committed to working with the sportsmen, the Administration and the General Assembly to fashion a reasonable and responsible fee schedule.

Late Winter Stocking of Trout... Both Lake Pleasant & the Upper Gravel Pit will be stocked the "Week of" February 18

Safe Boating Course Reminder
A PFBC Basic Boating Course is scheduled for February 25th and 26th. (Mon. & Tues.) from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. at the Nature Center on Presque Isle (Stull Interpretive Center). This is an eight hour course that covers the basics of boating safety. Materials are provided and there is no cost for the class. This is a great course for the beginning boater or to freshen up your boating skills. Successful completion of the course earns the participant a boaters safety certificate as required for personal watercraft operation. For more information or to register you can email Officers Bowser or Leighton at Jwb014@aol.com or Rglerie@aol.com or you may call 774-0928

Winter Sportsmen Club Meetings...
Officers are putting together a presentation on "How to report violations more effectively." It will roughly cover the type of evidence needed for successful prosecutions, information gathering, contact methods, and an informal question & answer period. This will be a chance to ask any of the questions you may have on how we do our job & improve the way we work together to clear the poachers and slobs from our waters. This is a great place for inquiries about the PFBC Deputy Program. Announcements will be made through the media as to times, dates, places, etc...

Western Crawford County WCO Report / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake- The ice season has started on Pymatuning and with the opening of Tuttle Point fishermen are finding it much easier to get to that favorite fishing hole. A large number of fishermen were out this weekend with the nice weather and several were lucky enough to catch fish. Walleye and Crappies were the big winners with a very few perch taken. The hot spot seems to be off of Tuttle Point along the edge of the old river bed (just south west of the boat ramp in Tuttle camp), however people were having luck out from Manning Boat ramp as well. Live bait and jigging sonar's seems to be the most productive, just remember to buy your bait ahead of time as the shops right on the lake are closed right now. Ice was anywhere from 4 to 6 inches depending on where you were and I have been receiving numerous letters asking is the ice safe, to answer that question my response is always going to be "NO ICE IS SAFE." I don't want the responsibility of you taking a swim or worse, just because I said the ice was safe and you didn't pay attention. Pymatuning State Park also has numerous programs coming up in the next few months that I told them I would pass on to you all, they are listed below.

Schedule of upcoming events for Pymatuning State Park:
1. Winter Fun Days Feb. 2 & 3- free horse drawn hay rides, trail rides, ice boat races, wood carving, kids sled rides (with snow), kids train rides (without snow), ice fishing demonstrations, hole in one contest, snow mobile displays, breakfast served from 7:00am to 11:00 am, wiener roast Saturday night at 6:00 pm. Event will be held snow or no snow.
2. Join Ed Vorisek Wildlife Management Technician, on Saturday Feb. 16th from 1:30pm to 3:00pm at shelter #4, for a program on Bear And Human Conflict Management in Alaska and a slide program focusing on the natural history of Grizzly bears in interior Alaska. Ed works for the National Park service at Denali National Park and has been monitoring bear/human conflicts since 1995.
3. Pymatuning Lake Shore line clean up, April 6th 8:00am to 12:00noon, the clean up coincides with earth day celebrations and includes shoreline and litter cleanup of all areas around the park. Lunch is provided for all volunteers and pre-registration is required by 3/29/02
4. Amphibians and Reptiles presented by April Claus on April 27th from 1:00pm to 2:30pm at shelter #4. Learn the importance of reptiles and amphibians to our environment with several native western Pennsylvania species present. Learn to identify various frog calls and join the frog watch program to determine the status of our local species.
5. After a long drab winter enjoy a WILDFLOWER SLIDE PROGRAM. During this slide program we will look at some of the wildflowers found around Pymatuning and the preferred habitat for these early bloomers.
6. A WILDFLOWER WALK will take place on May 4th at 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm at the ranger station on Adams rd. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
7. Mother's Day Victorian Tea on May 12th 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the rangers station on Adams Rd. (registration Requested) Join us on mothers day as we visit the historic past through culinary delights and stories of the local area during this interesting era.
8. Pymatuning Pioneer Arts Festival, July 27th and 28th, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Sunday. Displays, demonstrations, historical programs, arts and crafts, jelly making, ice cream making, musical entertainment, and civil war re-enactors. This event is held in the day use area near the dam.

Conneaut Lake- Conneaut just saw its first skim of ice this last weekend over the entire lake and there were still spots of open water near our access at the northern end. Definitely not good for fishing just yet but as soon as it is I will let you know.

Crystal Lake- Several Ice fishermen have been using this lake so far and with some good results. This is an excellent fishing hole to bring young ones or if you want a little more action, you just don't get the larger fish like you do on bigger bodies of water. Small panfish and bass seem to be the main species caught here on just about every bait you can come up with.

Conneaut Creek downstream from Rt. 20

Raccoon Creek near the mouth

Crooked Creek Upstream from Ables Road

Elk Creek @ the Girard Twp. Access Area

Conditions
A gradual melting of our winter blast has raised the tributary levels as high as they've been in a long time. Since the melt has been slow, the tribs have not washed out yet, however the waters are stained. This can produce excellent fishing. The Manchester Hole is still loaded with fish and the high water level spreads from bank to bank. Hardy anglers are back out in good numbers although wintery conditions still leave plenty of elbow room on all the tribs. The Project Waters at Walnut are high and fast moving with fish holding in all the pools. Ice jams at the mouth of Walnut and Elk Creeks have melted. The Basin at Walnut is ice free and very fishable. The Holes at the Legion Park in Girard have filled in nicely and should be holding good numbers of fish. High water levels are allowing fish to move freely and up stream areas such as Folly's End and the Streuchen Flats should be holding fish though upstream areas are iced in some places. Stained waters can be best fished with egg sacs, especially the colored ones, along with live or salted minnows and the brighter colored micro jigs tipped with wax worms or grubs. High water levels can make wading tricking and caution is advised.

...Safe Boating Course reminder
A PFBC Basic Boating Course is scheduled for February 25th and 26th.
(Mon. & Tues.) from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. at the Nature Center on Presque Isle (Stull Interpretive Center). This is an eight hour course that covers the basics of boating safety. Materials are provided and there is no cost for the class. This is a great course for the beginning boater or to freshen up your boating skills. Successful completion of the course earns the participant a boaters safety certificate as required for personal watercraft operation. For more information or to register you can email Officers Bowser or Leighton at Jwb014@aol.com or Rglerie@aol.com or you may call 774-0928

Elk Valley Sportsmen Reverse Raffle...
A great time to be had for couples. Your ticket gives you a chance at the $2,000.00 Main Prize, dinner, drinks, music, games, & dancing. It is being held on Feb. 9th @ St. John's Social Hall / Girard with Happy Hour starting at 5:30 ... Dinner @ 7:00 ... Dancing from 9:00 to Midnight.
All this for the price of $60.00/couple it is one of the best buys out there + is the only Fund Raiser held by the Elk Valley Sportsmen Club for the year. This helps to fund the Kid's Fishing Derby & improvements at the Girard Boro Pond as well as Turkey Feeding, Hunter's Safety Courses, and many other community projects. Tickets are available by contacting Grettler Meats or a Club Officer. Tickets are limited to 200 couples so get yours now !!

New Officer assigned to vacant Central Erie District ...
WCO Tom Edwards will take over the duties of the Central Erie County District starting January 22, 2002. WCO's Kerr & Bowser have been sharing coverage of the area since the resignation of WCO Ann Caretto last fall. This will bring the county back to a full complement and provide better coverage. Tom has worked extensively in the area as a Seasonal WCO and is familiar with the demands of the county. We will be dragging him around to the club meetings this winter to give everyone a shot at him. .... jb

Western Crawford / WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake-As of this weekend people were out in droves fishing the
northern end of the lake, around the Manning area, however there was only
about 4 inches of ice and since then we have had 40 degree temps and rain so
I don't believe any ice we have left would be any good. Tonight, Tuesday the
15th, it is snowing and any bad ice we have is going to be insulated by that
and it probably won't be making any new ice. The fishermen that were checked
by me on Saturday were saying that it was extremely slow and of all the guys
checked we saw only one WALLEYE and he said that was caught first thing in
the morning and the entire rest of the day they didn't even get any bumps.
Fishermen were very spread out as well, another sign no one was doing any
good, if someone would have been hauling in fish they would have gathered
around them.

Conneaut Lake-Most of Conneaut Lake is still open water, with at least half
of it being open. There is just enough ice that a boat is out of the
question but not enough to fish from. There has been no activity here this
week for just that reason.

Four pictures conditions at Lower Walnut Creek (Monday 1/7/02)
2
3
4

Elk Creek Access Boat Launch

Elk Creek at Whiteman's Bridge

Elk Creek at Whiteman's Bridge

Elk Creek at Whiteman's Bridge

Conditions
Anglers are still fighting icy conditions on the tribs but are catching fish in the open pockets of water..especially at the Manchester hole and the Project waters at Walnut Creek. Jigs and shiners can be deadly this time of year. Fishing will continue to be good along the shorelines at Trout and Godfrey runs when the lake is calm and if the "mudline" / loose ice subsides. Anglers are venturing out on the ice on Presque Isle Bay mainly within a few hundred yards of Dobbins Landing and to some extent on Misery Bay. Officers have reported ice conditions ranging from 1" to 3" which is still considered unsafe ice. Extreme caution is advised until the ice thickens. Weather reports for the next week indicate a sporadic warming trend which can make ice conditions unpredictable. If there are any doubts as to ice thickness...don't take the risk. Anglers are advised to wear PFD's and carry a pair of "ice awls" and never ice fish alone (its more fun with a friend anyway).

Winter Trib Tips
1) Frozen water and shorelines are best negotiated with ice cleats or felt soled
wading boots. The rubber lug boots can be very slippery.

2) Frozen lines and eyelet's can really be annoying. Try a little lip balm or petroleum
jelly on your rod eyelet's to prevent freezing. A little silicone sprayed on the line
spool can slow down ice build up on your line.

3) Loose layered clothing will do best to keep you warm. Pocket handwarmers can
make the day more enjoyable as well,

4) There are many types of glove options available from neoprene diving gloves to
mittens. I prefer the "fingerless" rag wool gloves. Wool will retain its insulating
value even when wet.

5) Taking frequent breaks to snack or just warm up and walking will help to keep
circulation moving.

6) Keep your catch in the water to keep it from freezing. Tossing the fish on the
bank in freezing weather will take the meat from cold to frozen adversely affecting
the meat.

7) In the extreme winter weather, its a good idea to let someone know where you
expect to fish and how long you expect to be gone.

8) Avoid getting your reel wet. Water and ice will ruin the effect of your drag system.

9) Keep eggs and minnows from freezing. Keeping containers of eggs in your
pocket will help and keeping minnow
buckets in the water will help keep the bucket water from freezing.

10) Avoid alcohol as it does little to keep you warm and can impair good judgment
in poor weather and ice conditions.

Cabin Fever??...Safe Boating Course
A PFBC Basic Boating Course is scheduled for February 25th and 26th
(Mon. & Tues) from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. at the Nature Center on Presque Isle (Stull Interpretive Center). This is an eight hour course that covers the basics of boating safety. Materials are provided and there is no cost for the class. This is a great course for the beginning boater or to freshen up your boating skills. Successful completion of the course earns the participant a boaters safety certificate as required for personal watercraft operation. For more information or to register you can email Officers Bowser or Leighton at Jwb014@aol.com or Rglerie@aol.com or you may call 774-0928

Western Crawford County ... WCO Joe Russel

Pymatuning Lake - The ice season has started with one or two brave souls (or
foolish) venturing out onto the ice. Today (Jan 7th)I went to check the
condition of the ice and along the shore fell through up to my knees. In
most of the spots it looks like there is only at the most two to possibly
three inches however it is the real milky punky ice and it is not very safe.
There are also numerous spots where the water is coming up through the ice
and melting the snow cover so there is pools of standing water. I spoke with
the park today and they agreed with me that the ice was not safe and are
going to leave the gate to Tuttle Point Campground closed until conditions
improve. The news is also calling for warm weather and rain in this area for
the next couple of days so that will not help conditions at all.

Conneaut Lake - Open water still is exists on most of the southern end of the
lake and I have yet to see anyone go out here and try drilling holes.
Unfortunately there is enough ice that boating is out of the question here
as well.

As soon as we have conditions change I will let you all know, but it looks
like we are in that in between period where it is just better to get the
jobs done around the house and keep the significant other happy.

Only fish observed in the Bay on New Years Day.

Local Dive Teams practicing for Ice Rescues on New Years Day

Cascade Creek

Conditions
Fishing conditions have become difficult with nearly 40" of snow and freeze over setting in. Most all of the tribs are frozen with minor areas of water flow. Some open pockets will produce fish however landing them can be a challenge. Anglers have been spotted attempting to break up the ice at the Manchester hole as well as the Project Waters. This often does little more than severely spook the fish and can be very dangerous to the angler. With the unpredictable weather we have in our area, it only takes a week or so of above freezing to melt off the ice on the tribs. Fishing the shore at Trout Run will continue to be productive ice and waves permitting.
Presque Isle Bay currently has 1.5" to 2" of ice on it.

Wading
With water levels being high and the possibility of drifting ice on the tribs, wading safety is important. We have seen so many types of waders and boots that it would be difficult to describe the pros and cons of all of them. Personally, I am a fan of the neoprene type waders. They typically come in 3 and 5 mm insulation and for my money are the safest all around wader. They provide warmth, fit snug around the chest preventing large amounts of water from getting in, and they provide some floatation and cushion if you fall. Rubberized fabrics, coated nylon or the new breathable waders present a real risk of rapidly filling with water if you slip or fall. This can even make standing back up in shallow water very difficult. These types of waders should never be worn without a properly adjusted wader belt to minimize water entry. The belt helps to trap air in the waders as well. Think of it like a seat belt and always use one. Boots, whether a separate item or built into the wader are mostly a matter of preference in our area. Felt bottoms do nicely on algae covered rocks and ice however, the rubber cleated type will fair better in the mud.
If you fall in fast moving water, the best thing to do is ride it out till feet first downstream until you can get your footing. Since most of our tribs are relatively shallow, the most important thing is to get safely out of the water quickly to avoid hypothermia. Anglers will often stand for hours in ice water often joking about the cold and how numb their legs and feet get. Dressing appropriately, taking frequent breaks, and taking along food and non alcoholic beverages can often safely extend your angling time and help avoid over exposure to the cold.

Hypothermia and Frostbite
Hypothermia simply stated is the lowering of the body's core temperature below 95 degrees. Frostbite simply stated is freezing of ones flesh.

Signs of Hypothermia include:
1) Trembling
2) Uncontrollable fits of shivering
3) Slurred and slow speech
4) Poor judgment
5) Skin color ranging from cyanosis to waxen; skin often appears gray and blood
6) Increased blood pressure, heart, and respiratory rates at first; decreased heart and
respiratory rates, irregular heartbeat, weak, shallow or absent pulse and respiration
as hypothermia progresses.
6) Low blood pressure

Emergency care for Hypothermia

1) Activate EMS - 911
2) TOP PRIORITY - never allow the person to stay in a cold environment.
3) Obtain body temperature using a thermometer with a minimum reading of 70
degrees.
4) Keep the person in a horizontal position; it helps to prevent shock.
5) Handle the patient very gently and do not allow the patient to exert himself.
6) Jostling a hypothermia patient can cause a heart attack.
7) Check vital signs -- measure for one full minute due to the slowness of the body
functions
8) Insulate the head due to rapid heat loss
9) Start with active external warming -- warm blankets, coats, layers of clothing, body
heat transfer from person to person.

Frostbite often accompanies Hypothermia. Factors that contribute to Frostbite include:

1) Any kind of trauma; always check for frostbite in trauma victims who are injured in
cold weather.
2) Age - the elderly and the newborn are most susceptible
3) Use of alcohol during exposure to cold (alcohol acts as a vasodilator and lowers
the ability to conserve heat)
4) Wet clothing
5) High Altitudes
6) Loss of blood
7) Race - African Americans are 6 times more likely to get frostbite.

Treatment for frostbite:

1) Remove the patient immediately, if possible, from the cold environment.
2) If the tissue is still frozen, keep it frozen until you can initiate care. Never initiate
thawing procedures if there is any danger of refreezing.
3) Protect the injured area from friction or pressure. Remove any constricting clothing
or jewelry.
4) Thaw the tissue as rapidly as the patient can tolerate the pain. Use water just
below body temperature (90o). Never reheat the water just continue to a warm
water to the existing water.
5) Rewarming is extremely painful.
6) Keep rewarming until the color no longer improves. The affected should turn deep
red or bluish, and the skin should be soft and pliable. Rewarming may take as
long as 30 to 40 minutes. Never attempt to rewarm the area by rubbing or
massaging, and never rub a frostbitten area with snow or alcohol.

Information on Hypothermia and frostbite in part from various web sources

Crawford County - WCO Joe Russell

Pymatuning Lake- I have received a lot of e-mails this week asking about the
condition of the ice on the lake. Unfortunately until this morning Jan 1,
2002 there was no ice on the southern end of the lake. I did check today
though and the ice has started forming so I guess it is finally time to get
the boats put away for the year and get out the ice shanties. So far we only
have about enough ice to support the waterfowl sitting out there but if we
keep getting these cold nights we should have good ice soon. As to where the
best spots to fish through the ice, that remains to be seen but the channel
off Tuttle Point really produced last year and that is as good a place as
any to start. Give it a while though because the ice is still not thick
enough to support anyone yet. For those of you that have been writing asking
about Richter's Sporting Goods that burnt down, construction has come along
nicely and they should be open to selling bait by the beginning of next
month. I spoke with them this afternoon and this was a setback but they will
be open again soon which is really good news with ice season coming up, and
yes they will be a license dealer again this year.

Conneaut Lake- I have been on vacation this week and have not made it up to
check on the conditions here, and no one has sent me any reports so I am not
sure about how this lake is doing this week.

For those of you that think there is nothing to do around here during the
winter, you couldn't be more wrong. Next month Feb 2nd and 3rd the " WINTER
FUN DAYS " will take place at Pymatuning State Park Beach 2, Shelter #4 near
the dam. This is a really great family event with rides, games, learning
events, and yours truly doing an ICE FISHING display. The times are 9:00 AM
to 6:00 PM on Saturday and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Sunday, with a wiener
roast and torch ride on Saturday evening. This is an excellent time had by
all and a really good break to the winter blues. It is also a good time to
meet me face to face should you have any questions that I may be able to
address for you. Please plan on attending if you can, you won't be sorry.