Pennsylvania Fishing Reports for 2002!

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.

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

JAMESTOWN, Crawford County (Oct. 28, 2002) -- A joint public meeting to address a proposed change in the outboard motor horsepower limit on Pymatuning Lake has been planned by Pennsylvania and Ohio conservation agencies, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) announced today.

The meeting will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, at Pymatuning Valley Primary School, 191 West Main Street (Route 6), in Andover, Ohio.

Residents of both states are invited to attend and comment on proposed horsepower limits changes on Pymatuning Lake. The lake is located in both Ashtabula County, Ohio, and Crawford County, Pa.

Presently, an agreement between the two states prohibits use of boat motors larger than 10 horsepower. Pennsylvania this past spring embarked on a pilot program that increased horsepower limits from 10 to 18 at six state parks. They are: Lake Marburg, Codorus State Park, York County; Lake Wilhelm, Maurice K. Goddard State Park, Mercer County; Lake Arthur, Moraine State Park, Butler County; Lake Nockamixon, Nockamixon State Park, Bucks County; Glendale Lake, Prince Gallitzin State Park, Cambria County; and Yellow Creek Lake, Yellow Creek State Park, Indiana County.

With the exception of Yellow Creek, all lakes involved in Pennsylvania’s pilot program are larger than 1,000 acres.

At Pymatuning Lake, officials from both states now are considering an increase in horsepower limits above 10 horsepower. The purpose of any increase in horsepower would be to improve safety for boaters traveling the lake during stormy weather or windy conditions. There is no interest in changing the character of the recreational experience at Pymatuning by allowing high horsepower boats.

Boaters are reminded that should horsepower changes be recommended and approved by both states, the effective date would not occur prior to joint action by both Ohio and Pennsylvania legislators. In the meantime, the 10 horsepower maximum limit would remain in effect.

Both Ohio and Pennsylvania are requesting public comment on the proposed horsepower increase. Persons wishing to express views in favor or against any change are invited attend the meeting, or submit written comments, no later than Nov. 29, to: Pymatuning State Park, Attn: Horsepower Limits, 2660 Williamsfield Road, Jamestown, PA 16134.

For more information on boating and other features at Pennsylvania's State parks, call 1-888-PA-PARKS; or visit DCNR's web site through the PA PowerPort at www.state.pa.us, PA Keyword: “state parks.”

For details on boating regulations, safety classes, public access areas and registering watercraft, visit the Fish and Boat Commission's web site at www.fish.state.pa.us.

Now is the time to start looking for boaters safety classes for the 2003 boating season. A new bill, Senate bill 463, has been approved making it mandatory for the safe boating class to be taken before you can operate a boat on Commonwealth waters, if you were born after January 1, 1982. Don't wait till spring to find a class this is something that you can take care of over the winter months. A copy of the entire press release is listed below.

On November 12, the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee approved legislation establishing a new mandatory boater education program for the Commonwealth.

Senate Bill 463 was sponsored by Senator Richard A. Kasunic with strong bipartisan co-sponsorship. The bill will, if enacted, require operators of most motorboats born after January 1, 1982, to complete a boating safety course and have a boating safety certificate before running their boats on Pennsylvania waters. The new requirement would take effect on January 1, 2003. Operators of unpowered boats and boats powered by motors less than 25 horsepower would not be required to get certificates. Senate Bill 463 provides for a $10 fee for issuance of a boating safety certificate, good for a lifetime, and a $5 certificate replacement fee.

"The Fish and Boat Commission knows that boater safety education works, and Senate Bill 463 is an important step forward," said Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director Peter A. Colangelo. "I want to thank Senator Kasunic, Chairman Ed Helfrick and the members of the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee for their persistence and foresight in pursuing this legislation," Colangelo added.

Nearly 200,000 Pennsylvanians already possess boating safety education certificates. Since 1999, when the Fish and Boat Commission required operators of personal watercraft to obtain certificates, about 115,000 certificates have been issued. "Many boaters have taken safety courses and obtained certificates in an effort to become better informed and safer boaters," noted John Simmons, Director of the Bureau of Boating and Education. "In fact, many of those taking courses were not doing so to meet requirements to operate personal watercraft such as jet skis, but in response to a sincere desire to become better boaters," Simmons added.

"The Fish and Boat Commission is confident that, if Senate Bill 463 becomes law, boaters who need to take courses and earn certificates will be able to do so before the 2003 boating season," Colangelo stated. "It's easier than ever to find and take a boating safety course. We offer distance learning and home study alternatives through the Internet and video courses, and many classroom boating courses are offered during the winter months," Colangelo concluded.

http://sherwin.ws/Dunbar_Creek_Project/Survey/Survey.htm

It is being conducted as part of the California University
of Pennsylvania Analysis of stream progress during
acid mine reclaimation work.

Thank you.

Tight Lines, Barbless Hooks And Beautiful Fish Released From Your Line

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.

PENNSYLVANIA, OHIO HOLDING JOINT PUBLIC MEETING ON PROPOSED PYMATUNING HORSEPOWER LIMIT CHANGE JAMESTOWN, Crawford County (Oct. 28, 2002)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
With early goose season opening soon and duck season right around the corner waterfowl hunters are reminded that the requirements for hunting from a boat don't change just because summer is over. All the required safety equipment is the same, you must have 1 wearable life jacket for each person on board, 1 type IV throwable device for all boats 16' and longer, a sound producing device for all boats with motors, visual distress signals if you are on Lake Erie, fire extinguisher for all boats with secondary hulls or enclosed compartments or permanently affixed gas tanks, and a registration card onboard. With all of this equipment you will make our meeting a much more pleasant time.

The 21st Annual Pymatuning Waterfowl Expo,
sponsored by Ducks Unlimited, will be held in Linesville, Pennsylvania, September 21-22, 2002.

This two-day event will feature numerous hunting and conservation-related displays, including artwork by local and nationally renowned artists, the Pennsylvania State Duck Stamp competition, taxidermy displays and competition, and decoy carvings and competition.

Visitors are invited to compete in the annual Expo Trap Shoot, and enjoy presentations by regional biologists, outdoor enthusiasts, and many others. On Sunday, some of the state's best waterfowl callers will compete in the Pennsylvania State Duck Calling Competition, the Regional Goose Calling Competition, and the Junior Duck Calling Competition.

Linesville is located in the heart of the Pymatuning region. It is just minutes from the Linesville Fish Culture Station, Pennsylvania Game Commission Outdoor Learning Center, the Linesville Spillway, and beautiful Pymatuning State Park.

For more information about the Pymatuning Waterfowl Expo, contact the Linesville Chamber of Commerce by phone at 800-829-7811. Proceeds from the event will help Ducks Unlimited in its mission to conserve critically important wetlands and waterfowl habitat.

Where in heck is your pymy fishing report this week?

Or did I miss it somehow?

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

Boating Accidents:
Each operator of a boat involved in a boating accident must stop, render assistance and offer identification. If the accident results in a death or disappearance, the Fish & Boat Commission must be notified immediately, followed by a written boating accident report within 48 hours. If the accident results in an injury that requires treatment beyond first aid, a written boating accident report must be submitted within 48 hours. If the accident results in damage to the vessel or other property exceeding $500, a written boating accidentreport must be submitted within 10 days.
Five common types of boating accidents:
1) Collisions - most common accident, causes most personal injuries
2) Capsizing - most common fatal accident
3) Falls overboard - another common fatal accident
4) Fires and explosions - often due to improper fueling
5) Swamping and flooding - usually caused by improper loadingor overloading.

New way to contact me: Due to a lack of cellular reception in some of my district and along alot of the streams in Erie, I have a pager for anglers and boaters to be able to contact me. The numbers are:
Cellular (814) 720-1246
Pager (814) 332-1965
Office (724) 932-5661

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Shenango River/ Pymatuning outflow-With the start of inland walleye season last Saturday this area looked like Walnut Creek during the Steelhead run. Lanterns shone on both sides of the river up and down stream for as far as you could see and at midnight Friday night even the high water didn't keep people away. I haven't seen or heard of any success stories from hear yet but it sure is getting its fair share of pressure.

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.

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.

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

CHUMMING...
For waters managed under statewide regulations, chumming with corn or other bait to attract fish would be considered a legal practice, providing that anglers don't get carried away and liberally coat the bottom of the stream with corn. If this were the case, then it could be considered littering.

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.

Q: Do I have to register my canoe or other un-powered boat?
A: Unpowered boats, including canoes, kayaks, sailboards, inflatables, etc., are not required to be registered in Pennsylvania, UNLESS:
You intend to use the watercraft at Commission lakes or access areas.*
You intend to use the watercraft at a state park lake.*
You put a motor (electric, gasoline or other) on your boat.
* You can also use your boat at Commission lakes and access areas, and state park lakes, if you purchase either a DCNR State Parks Launch Permit or a Fish & Boat Commission Use Permit....go to the online list of Use Permit issuing agents.

See, Watch, Learn...
Open House At Linesville Fish Culture Station -April 6, 2002 / 12 noon - 4 PM Linesville, PA
Here's a day you won't want to miss, a day the entire family can enjoy TOGETHER. See fish spawned; view incubating eggs and newly hatched fish; watch as fishery biologists demonstrate electrofishing and other fishery management techniques; see hatchery equipment in operation; observe fish culturists sorting, sexing and grading fish; learn how to tell the age of a fish; watch demonstrations on fishing techniques, casting, filleting; learn about safe boating practices and the latest safety equipment...plus a whole lot more.
Spend a DAY AT THE HATCHERY with family and friends. It's fascinating! And it's sure to be a great experience whether you fish or not. Don't miss it!

Pymatuning Lake Shoreline Cleanup
Volunteers are needed before the start of our Open House to help with this effort. Sponsored by Pymatuning State Park, the cleanup starts at 8 a.m. and ends at noon with free lunch. Join other cleanup volunteers either at Linesville or Jamestown in the morning, and then join us at the Open House in the afternoon. Pre-registration for the cleanup is required by 3/29/02. Please call Pymatuning State Park to register: (724) 932-3142. See you there!

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.

N E W S R E L E A S E - COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

PILOT PROGRAM ALTERS HORSEPOWER REGULATIONS FOR BOATING AT SIX STATE PARK LAKES HARRISBURG (March 14) -- On behalf of Gov. Mark Schweiker, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary John C. Oliver today announced changes to boating horsepower limits at six state park lakes as part of a pilot program seeking better enforcement and better protection of the environment. “Outboard motor limits are increased from 10 horsepower to 18 horsepower at six state park lakes following intensive study by Bureau of State Parks officials, and extensive comment from boaters and anglers across the state,” Secretary Oliver said. The pilot program is effective immediately at the following state park lakes: Lake Marburg, Codorus State Park, York County; Lake Wilhelm, Maurice K. Goddard State Park, Mercer County; Lake Arthur, Moraine State Park, Butler County; Lake Nockamixon, Nockamixon State Park, Bucks County; Glendale Lake, Prince Gallitzin State Park, Cambria County; and Yellow Creek Lake, Yellow Creek State Park, Indiana County. With the exception of Yellow Creek, all lakes involved in the pilot program are larger than 1,000 acres. Lake Pymatuning at Pymatuning State Park, Crawford County, also is targeted for a 10- to 18-horsepower increase, but not before the needed approval in joint legislative action by Pennsylvania and neighboring Ohio.“It is important to keep in mind that these changes are part of a pilot project and may not be permanent,” Secretary Oliver said. “Managers at each of the affected parks will closely monitor their lakes for signs of increased shoreline erosion or other adverse effects. There will be no personal watercraft allowed, nor water skiing or recreational towing of any type.”Park officials at the affected lakes say boaters routinely circumvented posted 10-horsepower limits by altering carburetion systems, or displaying 10-horsepower motor covers on motors that actually were more powerful.Outboard motors larger than 18 horsepower may be attached to boats used in all state park lakes, but they can be operated only in those lakes approved for unlimited horsepower.“The ‘status quo’ at these lakes is not changing," Secretary Oliver said. “Now we will have the capability to enforce the posted horsepower limit on motors being used to propel watercraft. Because of their noticeably larger size, motors exceeding 18 horsepower can be spotted more easily by law enforcement officers.”Throughout a series of public meetings held across the state in the summer of 2001, a recurring issue raised by park visitors was present horsepower limits on some of the state park lakes. DCNR and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) then hosted a public meeting on the issue in Harrisburg last fall.The PFBC has adopted general and special boating regulations applicable to Commonwealth waters. At DCNR’s request, the PFBC has in the past established special boating regulations for state park lakes. These regulations maintained unlimited horsepower at seven state park lakes; motors not larger than 10 horsepower at the seven state park lakes where the test program is now in effect; and electric motors only at 35 state park lakes.“The Fish and Boat Commission defers to DCNR with respect to horsepower regulations on state parks lakes, and we support the proposed pilot program,” said PFBC Executive Director Peter Colangelo. “The Commission will pursue appropriate amendments to its special regulations and, in the meantime, we will defer to DCNR with regard to enforcement of horsepower limits. Written comment on the horsepower pilot program can be sent to Gary Smith, Chief, Park Operations and Maintenance, Bureau of State Parks, Rachel Carson State Office Building, P.O. Box 8551, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8551. For more information on boating and other features at Pennsylvania's state parks, call 1-888-PA-PARKS or visit the PA PowerPort at www.state.pa.us, PA Keyword: “state parks.” For details on boating regulations, safety classes, public access areas and registering watercraft, visit the Fish and Boat Commission’s website at www.fish.state.pa.us. # # #

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.

Deputy Applicants needed...
If you ever thought about the deputy program & if it would be right for you... now is the time to check it out. Contact any of the officers on this report to find out more information. If you live in Western Crawford County, you may email me or call the NW Region Office @ 814-337-0444 for more information.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.