About Fly Fishing In The North CountryThis page is dedicated to fly fishing in Pittsburg and surrounding locations. I will attempt to provide you with up to date fishing information. Where the fish are and what to use to catch them. I will also keep you current on the local weather, river flows for the upper Connecticut River and other useful information. Please remember that johnsnhweather.com is not affiliated with the town of Pittsburg, NH or any business in the area. The information provided is my opinion not that of anyone else, unless noted.
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Live Connecticut River Flow at 2nd Ct Lake Dam, Pittsburg NH Live Connecticut River Flow at 1st CT Lake Dam, Pittsburg NH
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The map below was swiped from Lopstick's web page, thanks Lopstick, this is a nice map of the trophy section.
You will usually find me fishing at the Bridge Pool, however, any spot from the Dam Pool to the Step Pools can be great fishing and I have fished them all.
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My granddaughter’s winning 4H poster.
Weekly Fishing Report and NH Fish and Game Information
Scroll down for more info.
News from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department
Phone: (603) 271-3211
Email: info@wildlife.nh.gov
For information and online licenses, visit http://www.wildnh.com
NH Weekly Fishing Report – September 16, 2011
Good morning, fishing fans – we’ve got 3 regional reports today. This is probably the last fishing report for the spring/summer season, so ... thanks for reading, have a wonderful autumn, and we’ll check in with you during ice-fishing time! For more NH fish and fishing info all year long, follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame. (You don't need to be a Facebook user to see our stuff!)
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><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
The recent rains in the lakes region have not affected the fishing for salmonid species at all. A recent trip on Lake Winnisquam produced some fantastic lake trout fishing! Again, the pattern of close trolling to shoreline, in water less than 50 feet deep, produced multiple catches of nice lake trout. Only a handful of trout were sublegal (under 18 inches), while most were 20 inches or better. The downrigger proved to be very important in regulating the depth (very quickly), as the bottom near shore consists of humps that rise up 20 feet in some cases. Baitfish pods were evident along the shore, again I think most were young-of-the-year white perch, with some smelt schools also evident. Lure size is critical, with the small (2-inch) Mooselook wobblers producing the majority of fish. We didn’t try flies, but I bet a small white streamer would also do the trick. We fished near numerous loons, with one brave soul approaching the boat within 15 feet! I always keep a lookout for waterfowl, such as mergansers, cormorants and loons, they reveal where the baitfish are congregating.
I’ll be fishing a bit more in the weeks to come, some trips to Winnipesaukee to try for salmon, and definitely a couple trips on Winnisquam, looking for that big laker!
The river flows south of the White Mountains are great now, and brook trout will be spawning soon in these areas. It’s a great time to get out and enjoy these days of early fall, for they will not last very long. - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
We have been busy evaluating Atlantic salmon parr survival and growth throughout the Merrimack and Connecticut watersheds. Perhaps the biggest obstacle this year is trying to plan around the weather and high flows. High flows with increased turbidity can make electrofishing very difficult to see fish when they are temporarily immobilized. As the field season winds down, we still hope to continue looking for wild brook trout populations in the southeastern part of the state, particularly within the Lamprey River watershed, before we shift gears and focus on the fall netting season in the lakes region.
Our need to collect more information on the round whitefish, a fish species of concern, took us out of southern New Hampshire this week. Recent records indicate the species may only be present in Newfound Lake and upper reaches of the Connecticut River. While we have been able to find an effective way to sample the species on Newfound Lake, the population in the Connecticut River presented more challenges. Through the use of boat electrofishing, we were able to capture close to 30 juveniles and adults within the stretch of river between Colebrook and West Stewartstown. As a bonus, we were also able to capture a 22-inch-long brown trout adorned in a great example of spawning colors. In the future, we hope to radio tag these whitefish to determine what seasonal habitats they prefer as well as the areas they tend to avoid. This information will be invaluable to the future sustainability of the species. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
This past weekend I decided to poke around Rye Harbor using a snorkel, just to see what I could see. I entered the water at slack high tide over by the boat ramp at the marina and made my way to the jetty at the state park. The visibility was good, down to about 15 feet. There were no winter flounder to be seen; these most likely abandoned the harbor a while ago due to the warmer water temps in the shallows. To my surprise, I did see a school of stripers! About halfway through my journey, I observed about 15 to 20 of them - mostly schoolies, but there were a couple that appeared to be of legal size. As I continued on, they were following me! I noticed a few anglers on the jetty and decided to take advantage of the fishes’ behavior, bringing them right to the anglers; unfortunately as we neared the jetty the stripers wised up and moved into deeper waters. Strangely, I did not see any baitfish around; the stripers must have been attracted into the harbor by the commercial boats.
Striper fishing has picked up in recent days. Anglers are reporting catching them in the rivers, bay, and ocean side. Most of these fish are being caught with live mackerel, which are also still available just outside the river. A growing number of people are fly fishing for stripers; it is becoming increasingly popular to fly fish off of bridges, just dropping the fly into the water, no casting involved.
Groundfishing is still decent, boats coming in from Jeffreys Ledge report good catches of pollock and haddock. A few of my colleagues also had luck out at Old and New Scantum at the beginning of September. - Robert Eckert, Marine Biologist FEDERAL AID IN WILDLIFE AND SPORT FISH AND RESTORATION: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program. Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more: http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2011 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
NH Weekly Fishing Report – September 9, 2011
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><> North Country
As I stood in the Ammonoosuc River yesterday, I watched leaves float by and stick to the rocks. I can't honestly tell whether they had fallen because it is mid-September or because the rain and wind have been knocking them down. Northern New Hampshire has been a dynamic place concerning the weather of the last few weeks and it has been hard to get any fishing in. Water levels are constantly changing and the heavy rain is causing temperatures to fluctuate wildly. I look forward to fishing some remote trout ponds over the next few weeks, and I'm not sure what to expect. Trio Ponds and Whitcomb Pond in the Nash Stream headwaters can both be awesome places to spend a September afternoon. I also hope to out-smart some brown trout in Connecticut River pool habitats around Stratford and Columbia. I will also make an effort to hit a few of our local bass ponds before the end of the month. I have had some great fall days on Forest Lake in Whitefield. I will approach my tackle choice as an effort to explore as much of the water column as I need to find fish. Plastic baits fished as a drop shot or Texas-rigged will get me to the deep water. A suspending jerk bait or slow-moving crank bait will cover water from 10 to 20 feet deep. I will also throw spinner baits and floating stick baits in shallower water. As mentioned, the goal is to cover varying depths. With all of these approaches, it makes me feel less guilty when I spend the winter buying fishing gear. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
We continue to experience high lake levels in the lakes region. Both Winnipesaukee and Winnisquam are above full-pool levels. The salmon bite continues to be excellent in Winnipesaukee, with the strong two-year-old age class of salmon predominant in the catch. The water temperature has stabilized at 70 degrees, so the thermocline is still down a good 35 feet at least. This is not to say that you won’t find the occasional rainbow feeding near the surface in the early morning hours. Big Squam is slow, with an occasional trophy salmon caught after several hours of fishing, but isn’t that the way a trophy fishery operates? In New Hampshire we are blessed with 15 landlocked salmon lakes to chase these beauties, and each lake brings a different fishery and attitude to the table for our anglers. Ossipee Lake is often overlooked, but we have had reports of some decent two-year olds and an occasional big brown trout (dropdown from the Bearcamp River) being caught. A little further north is Conway Lake, a real North Country gem, with tea-stained water and some nice salmon lurking in this moderately deep (50 feet) lake. Winnisquam continues to produce some nice lake trout for me and my fishing companions. The same pattern holds true - small Mooselook wobblers are just the ticket as these trout are feeding heavily on young-of-the-year white perch, along the eastern shoreline in 40-50 feet of water. Definitely try some close shoreline trolling in the vicinity of the streams and brooks, which are flowing heavily into our lakes now. A recent trip up north has revealed dropping stream water levels to the point where angling is more feasible now. Try the deeper pools, where many fish may have taken refuge during our recent heavy rain events. The Pemigewasset River is good now, water clarity has improved greatly, and conditions are excellent, especially in the Bristol/New Hampton areas. Get out and fish now, the season closes for salmon on September 30! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
In the next several weeks, we will be conducting our annual young-of-the-year (YOY) bass surveys. These electrofishing boat surveys target largemouth and smallmouth bass that were hatched this spring. Surveys are conducted on Spofford Lake, Big Squam Lake, Lake Winnipesaukee, Forest Lake (Whitefield), and two sections of the Connecticut River (Claremont and Hinsdale). The same areas of each waterbody are sampled each year, allowing us to determine year-class strength as well as fish size, species composition, and to track how these factors change from year to year within a waterbody and also how they change within a year from north to south within the state. These samples are important in that documenting a poor (or good) year-class will help us to predict and/or explain good or poor fishing success in the future. For example, a poor year-class of smallmouth bass in Spofford Lake in 2011 would help explain angler dissatisfaction with the fishery in seven to eight years as that year-class reach a size that most anglers wish to catch. Additionally, over-winter survival of YOY bass during their first winter has been shown to be positively related to their length in fall; examining YOY bass size also helps allow us to predict future success of a particular year-class. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Sorry folks, no report this week. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
Stripers are few and far between these days. While you wait for their fall migration to begin, you will have more luck fishing the coast from a boat. The migration will begin as the water cools and baitfish leave our estuaries and harbors; this is aided by all the rain we are experiencing. The river herring that ascended our coastal rivers this spring, and brought stripers up with them, deposited their eggs in freshwater; these have by now developed into three to four inch juveniles. The juvenile river herring are in the midst of their journey out of their nursery grounds and this rain should trigger more movement. Stripers are on the lookout for schools of these and other baitfish, gorging themselves before the winter ahead. A good way to simulate these schools and attract the attention of the scattered striper is an umbrella rig. Use one of these rigs while trolling the coast. These can be purchased pre-rigged or unrigged for those that have a favorite lure, be sure to use the same color lure on a single umbrella as it is simulating a school of fish. If you want to vary the color you may use two umbrella rigs, one on each side of the boat. Try to position these so they are just above the depth of the stripers you are trying to catch. When using this setup, it is easy to tangle the lines so put it in the water with ease and let your line out slowly.
Anglers are still catching mackerel and picking away at bluefish, and nice-sized pollock are being caught offshore. Softshell clam season began September 6 (everywhere except Hampton/Seabrook Estuary); the season is Saturdays only and is subject to closing due to bacteria levels or red tide. Check http://www.wildnh.com/Fishing/clam_flat_status.htm or call 1-800-43-CLAMS for the current open/closed status of NH shellfish areas. Shellfishing maps and other great resources can be found at http://www.wildnh.com/marine/shellfishing.html. There is still time to get out and enjoy all of what our lovely coast has to offer! - Becky Heuss, Marine Biologist
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN WILDLIFE AND SPORT FISH AND RESTORATION: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program. Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more: http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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NH Weekly Fishing Report – August 11, 2011
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><> North Country
If landing a brook trout on a four-weight fly rod gets your blood pumping as much as landing a smallmouth on an ultra-light spinning rod, I have a challenge for you. Why not target one of New Hampshire's most aggressive predator fish that can grow over 20 pounds and 40+ inches long? I'm suggesting a battle with a northern pike. If an angler could create a sportfish from scratch, I can't imagine that the desired characteristics would be much different from that of the northern pike. Imagine a fish that eats anything. Insects, other fish, reptiles, amphibians, ducklings, mice, and any other organism that gets near the water is at risk. This makes your fishing approach as varied as you'd like it. To add intensity to the battle, downsize your gear! A medium-light action rod and six to eight-pound test line may allow you to really sneak up on these monsters. Whatever your terminal tackle may be, you must anticipate a toothy hook-up and prepare your leader accordingly. One of my most important rules for pike fishing is simple: speed things up. I retrieve spinner-baits at a speed twice that which I use on bass. I will retrieve a crank-bait in the same fashion. It is important to remember to be ready for a strike at any moment. When your lure is a few feet from the boat and you are looking for your next spot to cast, you must still be prepared for a surface-smashing strike. The best North Country opportunities for pike include Partridge Lake in Littleton, Jericho Lake in Berlin, Moore Reservoir, and Martin Meadow Pond in Lancaster. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
Smelt surveys continue on the big lakes, and so far, everything looks good. Young-of-the-year (YOY) smelt numbers looked great at Newfound Lake recently. Newfound, by the way, is rapidly becoming a wonderful rainbow trout fishery. Reports of some rainbows over 3 pounds continue to trickle in, with numerous rainbows from this year’s stocking showing up, nearly at the 15 inch minimum. We are waiting for this lake to show some nice salmon in the catch…perhaps by this September! Recent rains have kept lake levels up, and the Hexagenia mayfly hatch lingers on the big lakes, with numerous individuals appearing on our research vessel Forager during our night-time surveys. The rains are good news for stream anglers as well. Late last week, I ventured north to “stretch” the legs on a hike in the Sandwich Wilderness area. This area encompasses a broad reach of country, Mounts Passaconaway and Tripyramid to the north, and the Sandwich range to the south. There are numerous headwater brooks in this area; I fished one in the southern end of the range up to an elevation of 2000 feet! All you need is a good pair of boots, a fly rod (I use an old Eagle Claw Trailmaster 7 ½ foot), and a reliable companion, mine is a six year old yellow lab, “Miss Penny”, who must be restrained from the pools until I’ve had a chance to fish them! I find total relaxation up here in the mountains, working my way along the rocky banks to the next crystal clear pool. I use a rather large hopper imitation size 6, in order to keep the “little guys” off the hook! Every once in awhile, you will be treated to a monster brookie at 6 inches long! My meal for the night was two trout, one male and female. At this time of year up in the mountains, brookies are nearly ready to spawn, evidenced by the mature eggs in the 6 inch female. Don’t forget the camera, these trout display colors you thought were only found in an oil painting! I wasn’t that far away (in miles) from my trolling boat tied up on Lake Winnisquam, but I was literally in a different world up in these mountains. - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
During the month of August, I am always torn between bass fishing and fishing for lake trout. I love both types of fishing and I tend to second-guess myself a lot when deciding on what to fish for on a particular day. “Will the lakers be on today or are they going to be the unresponsive to my efforts?” “Will there be a good topwater bite for largemouths today?” This past weekend, I decided to not make a decision and just fish for both. I went to Nubanusit Lake (Hancock/Nelson) on Saturday with my friend Ed, who has never fished for lake trout before. We fished from 10 to 4 and ended up landing nine lakers by trolling and vertical jigging. He was impressed with the fight and how beautiful these fish are. Lake trout in NH are not stocked and we released all these naturally produced fish. Nubanusit, Spoonwood Lake (Nelson), and Silver Lake (Harrisville) all have lake trout and are great places to get your laker fix without having to travel to the Lakes Region. Anglers have been catching some decent rainbows and salmon at Nubanusit in the past weeks as well. On Sunday I fished by myself at a small bass pond near Winchester. The hot sticky weather in conjunction with being on the water lent itself to numerous swims and a half dozen largemouth. Nothing over two pounds, but still a nice way to spend the afternoon. Fish all came on 4” plastic worms used on either a shaky jig head or a drop shot rig. I didn’t find any fish on downed trees or rocks and the fish I caught were at random spots close to aquatic vegetation. Without any real pattern to go on besides casting to vegetation, I was happy to get as many fish as I did. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Amongst other recent surveys, we've spent some time in the Lamprey River watershed documenting the distribution of bridle shiners and wild brook trout. The bridle shiner is the only state listed threatened species. (Two other fish species are at an elevated level of concern; both the American brook lamprey and shortnose sturgeon are state endangered.) Bridle shiners are an indicator species of healthy and undisturbed warmwater rivers, lakes and ponds. These fish average only two inches in length and they compensate for relatively poor swimming ability by living, feeding, and breeding in dense aquatic vegetation in waters with minimal turbidity. Without densely vegetated habitats, the species can become easy fare for countless predator fish. They have a life expectancy that rarely exceeds two years, meaning if a catastrophic event occurred, the potential for losing the species can be high. Although bridle shiners may not be considered valuable to some anglers, the presence or absence of the species can be used as a gauge on our impacts to aquatic ecosystems and water quality. Despite a variety of different stream habitats within the Lamprey watershed, the distribution of wild brook trout appears to be restricted only to very small streams. It is likely the larger stream habitats may not offer suitable spawning habitats and reach undesirable water temperatures for the species. In some times of the year, it is likely wild brook trout may occupy these larger streams but during the summer months, the brook trout need to find thermal refuge in cooler tributaries. This emphasizes the need to have aquatic connectivity. Road/stream crossings (i.e. perched culverts) and dams are examples of barriers that would prevent this sensitive species from finding necessary habitats. More and more, we are learning the value of spring-fed streams, especially in the southeastern part of the state, and the need to protect these very small (sometimes only one or two feet wide) streams. To some extent and within reason, the existing impacts to the surrounding landscape of a brook trout stream can be offset by having a steady supply of ground water recharge from springs. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
The fishing is still good on the New Hampshire coast this week. I saw flounder and pollock caught from local jetties. From the open water private boats are still bringing stripers and plenty of mackerel back to the docks.
I also had the pleasure of speaking with several spear fishermen as they returned to land. Most of them were quite successful in getting a creel full of flounder in as little as an hour! If you are going to try spear fishing, remember that fish appear larger as seen underwater. Make sure you’re confident that your quarry is of legal size before you take aim. There is no catch and release in spear fishing.
Hope to see you out there! - Jessica Devoid, Marine Biological Aide
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FEDERAL AID IN WILDLIFE AND SPORT FISH AND RESTORATION: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program. Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more: http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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NH Weekly Fishing Report - July 28, 2011
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><> North Country
New Hampshire anglers have it pretty good. Our waterbodies are healthy and fish of all different types can be found throughout. We don’t have the opportunity to catch a 100-pound catfish like the Ozark Rivers of my youth, but the trade-off seems acceptable to me. This week, I was sampling some very small brooks in the Ammonoosuc River Watershed. To the casual observer, they would not seem like an opportunity to fish. They were literally 6 inches wide in spots, looked warm and were experiencing very slow flow rates. With a touch of my electro-fishing wand, however, brook trout boiled up out of every pool. They were also in undercut banks and woody material. When fishing small brooks and considering the growth rates of these fish, it becomes important to adjust your idea of what a “trophy fish” is. Brook trout 4 or 5 inches in size may be four years old, and should be considered the bullies on their block. These types of fisheries can present some real challenges to the angler. Most are enshrouded in overhanging vegetation that can make casting difficult. Getting your bait (fly, worm, or whatever) to the fish will require some creativity and patience. An angler in these situations may also have to employ some stealth - the fish spook very easily and once they flee, it will be hard to get them to bite. If everything falls into place, the fish that end up in your net will be among the most beautiful you’ve ever seen. Still months away from spawning season, small-water brookies will still have deep and vibrant coloration and make you glad you brought your camera. - Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
Recently I took the opportunity to check out the new Fish and Game access site on Purity Lake in Eaton. The site is located on the northern end of the lake, right on NH Route 153, about a half-mile north of King Pine Ski Area. The access will accommodate small, cartop boats, canoes, and kayaks and parking for about 10-12 vehicles. The access consists of a gradually sloping set of stairs constructed of gravel and pressure treated lumber. The design of the site uses modern erosion control technology. We launched a canoe and paddled and fished a little. Purity Lake is a gin-clear but productive body of water. Among the abundant submerged and floating aquatic vegetation we observed several bass, as well as sunfish, yellow perch, a pickerel or two, and schools of shiners. There is also a decent smelt population in the lake, as the deeper waters are cold and supersaturated with oxygen. Now that Fish and Game has secured a public access here, we are considering stocking some rainbow trout for anglers to enjoy in the near future. Stay tuned! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
During the last few weeks we have been unable to do much fishing due to our warmwater sampling surveys, which occur at night. We conduct our surveys with an electrofishing boat that sends an electric current into the water and stuns the fish momentarily while we net them and put them into a livewell in the boat unharmed. We start these surveys at dark and can go on until one or two o’clock in the morning, depending on the size of the waterbody and how many fish we collect. We started our season on French Pond in Henniker where we found an abundance of small bluegills, some golden shiners, yellow bullhead, and to our surprise, fathead minnows, which only occur in a few waterbodies around the state. We were also surprised to not see any pickerel or perch, which are common throughout most ponds and lakes around the state. We electrofished Harrisville Pond in Harrisville to get a community assessment prior to us deploying Christmas trees for habitat improvement this fall. The bass we sampled were found concentrated in a certain area of the pond where there was vegetation with rocks and nearshore drop-offs. Only one of our five runs produced numbers of largemouth and smallmouth bass. We also found common sunfish, golden shiners, and black crappie. Horseshoe Pond in Merrimack was our most recent outing and it was during the hottest, most humid night of the summer, last Thursday. This pond nearly has it all - bluegill, yellow perch, pickerel, common sunfish, common white suckers, bullhead, black crappie, eel, carp, and largemouth bass. We shocked up some carp that were from 15 to 30 pounds! The bass numbers were good, fish were healthy, and there was a good mix of age classes. Hopefully we can get out on our own time soon and sample some of these waterbodies and others with rod and reel. – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
I try to fly cast for sunfish species (bluegill, pumpkinseeds, black crappie, etc.) a few times of year. Although there are no guarantees when it comes to fishing, having a successful day with these smaller predators can come close. I enjoy the simplicity of this type of fishing as well as the respect I have for these species in both fight and appearance. There isn't a need for fish finders, high quality rods and reels or a large assortment of different types of tackle, and a canoe can fish as well as another other type of larger boat. A modest but adequate fly rod and reel setup with a small box of panfish plugs/poppers are all that is needed. I prefer to use floating fly line with a rod's length long leader of 6 pound monofilament and a rod around the 5 weight range. Five weight fly rods could be considered overkill, but it will give you enough support to land a larger fish if you happen to entice a larger bass or hook a larger pickerel in the outer part of its mouth. It is important to size the poppers appropriately to your target species. There are several different kits available on the market that covers an assortment of colors and sizes. It's best to be well equipped with at least a few different options to offer. When it comes to hook size, 1/0 hooks are suitable for larger fish species (and it couldn't hurt to carry a few of these if the bass are shallow) but a #8 or #10 size popper should be suitable. If you routinely observe your popper getting struck without a hookup, try downsizing. Some of recommended ponds to try within southeastern New Hampshire include: Bellamy Reservoir (Madbury), Brindle Pond (Barnstead), Heads Pond (Hooksett), Horseshoe Pond (Merrimack), and Shellcamp Pond (Gilmanton). – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
This week we finally got some relief in the form of cool air. Thankfully the fishing is still hot! If you really want to have some fun, there have been numerous reports of bluefin tuna just past the shoals, about 8 miles out. Bluefin tuna is a highly migratory species and the fishery is regulated by NOAA Fisheries. Participation in this fishery requires a permit issued by NOAA Fisheries, for more information call (888) 872-8862 or visit http://www.nmfspermits.com. The bluefish are finally around but they have been elusive thus far, one caught here and there. We’ve had reports of them in the river and at the mouth of Hampton Harbor, but no real frenzies yet. Try something new and check out your local jetty! These are great spots to find bait as well as trophy fish. There is a list of seashore access sites on the web at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/marine/marine_PDFs/seacoast_TMF_guide.pdf. If you aren’t interested in hiking out over rocks, an easy way to catch some fish and have a great time is on a party or charter boat; these captains have years of experience and can track down where the fish are hiding. Not sure what to do with those fish once you get them home? Here are a few simple ideas on how to cook your ocean catch, from my colleague Jessica Fischer: Melt about 1/2 stick of butter and transfer to a bowl. Add 1 sleeve of crushed up Ritz crackers and stir to coat the Ritz with the butter. Place fish in a baking dish and pour the Ritz crackers over the fish. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes (depending on the size of the fillets). The fish is done when it flakes with a fork but is still milky looking. This works best with cod or haddock or cusk. If you happen to catch a flounder you can make baked stuffed flounder almost as easily. To make the stuffing take a can of lump crab meat and add Ritz to your liking. I like more crab than Ritz so I only use about a half of a sleeve. Then place the stuffing in the center of the fillet and roll the sides up around the stuffing and place in a baking dish with the seams down. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes depending on the thickness. Serve with a salad and it is a great summer meal. - Robert Eckert, Marine Biologist
><> FEDERAL AID IN WILDLIFE AND SPORT FISH AND RESTORATION: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program. Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more: http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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NH Weekly Fishing Report - July 14, 2011
Stocking report: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/Stocking/current.html
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
2012 Fishing Rules: Weigh in on proposed changes to NH fishing rules at a public hearing on July 26 at 6:30 p.m. in Concord. More info at http://www.fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2011/News_2011_Q3/fish_rule_hrg_071311.html Send the young’uns to Fish Camp! July 31 – August 5: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2011/News_2011_Q2/BCC_Spaces_062111.html
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><> North Country
Water temperatures may be the single most important abiotic condition in fish biology. It is for this reason that the most successful anglers are those who understand the relationship between temperature and fish behavior. This morning, Little Diamond Pond in West Stewartstown was 78 degrees F. At this temperature, trout are going to be existing at the upper limit of their optimal conditions. If these temperatures continue with no reprieve, fish (and fishing) will suffer. On the other hand, the Upper Connecticut River in Pittsburg has a water temperature in the mid to upper fifties. During my last visit, I saw trout rising in almost every pool. They were sipping mayflies (pale morning duns) and metabolizing at a healthy rate. As summer progresses, it is important to keep this relationship in mind as you decide which waterbody to fish. Beginning about four weeks ago, a large cream-colored mayfly began arriving on waterbodies in Northern New Hampshire. They belong to the genus Hexagenia and are some of the largest mayflies in the world. Referred to as a “Hex-hatch”, these mayflies serve as a dinner-bell for hungry fish. Almost every type of fish will rise for these flies and they are an important food in both their adult (terrestrial) and nymph or emerger (aquatic) stages. Both cold and warmwater fishermen can be seen casting these imitations. Watching a fish rise for a surface strike is as good as fishing gets for me. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
Things are heating up in the Lakes Region. Winnipesaukee water temp is running around 75 degrees. The bass have moved to cooler waters, 15-25 feet deep. Even my dusk exploits with bass poppers on Winnisquam have turned off, with only an occasional fallfish cruising the shoreline. I have some new neighbors who are renting a camp for the week on Winnisquam, but have had little luck fishing from the shoreline over a sandy flat of 6 foot deep water. This family has a great bunch of kids, all outfitted with spinning rods, and quite proficient with their casting ability. I talked with my neighbor and told him of a spot I often took a bunch of kids fishing on the lake. I steered him to Mosquito Bridge, which crosses Winnisquam near the southern end, and is the direct route for traffic heading to Laconia. Fishing near the outside bridge abutments at this time of year, from a boat, can yield a variety of fish species. Cool, deep, shaded water near the bridge is a natural attraction for schools of young-of-the-year (YOY) fish, which include yellow and white perch, sunfish, shiners and rock bass. This food supply, of course attracts small and largemouth bass and the occasional pickerel to the area. I told my neighbor to bring plenty of worms and a supply of hooks with him, as the last time I fished there with kids I ran out of worms in a half hour! I can think of many bridge crossings in the Lakes Region where this feat can be duplicated. Cover and structure are what warmwater fish thrive in, and bridges provide just that. Enjoy a day with the kids at these locations; it will bring a smile to your face! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
This is a great time of the year to spend time on the Connecticut River. Whether you like to fish, boat, paddle, swim, or view wildlife, the NH/VT border has it all. In our region, I like to spend a summer day on the river anywhere from Walpole to Hinsdale. I usually head out early if I am going to fish, because boat traffic will pick-up on the weekends during hot days. Trolling is a great way to learn and cover a lot of the river and will likely result in a mixed bag of fish like walleye, smallmouth bass, pike, pickerel, yellow and white perch. Drifting with the current and casting to near shore structure like wood, rocks, vegetation, or even current breaks are effective ways to fish the river. Once the mid-day sun starts to get to me, I look for one of the many spots on the river that are great for tying up the boat and lounging by the river. Bring a picnic lunch some chairs and do a little swimming. Not a bad way to spend a summer day! – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Anglers often jump on I-93 and head to the central or northern part of the state in pursuit of trophy bass waters. What some may not realize is that when driving, they are paralleling some quality bass fishing opportunities closer to home. The Merrimack River has several public access points from Nashua to Boscawen. Anglers can expect to encounter a variety of habitats consisting of submerged and emergent aquatic vegetation, fallen trees, rock piles, sand bars, and tributary confluences. Most of these locations can be fished with any type of vessel from a small kayak to large bass boat. One of my favorite access points is at the New Hampshire Technical Institute in Concord. This launch puts you in a section of river with a lot of different options. You can drift the current downstream and fish the habitat created by fallen maples and white pines as well some rocky sections and other habitat created by bridges. If you head straight across from the launch, you will encounter a large vegetated cove. Here, as water levels recede to sometime levels, smaller watercraft may have an advantage. There a several oxbows and shallow water sections loaded with aquatic vegetation that holds fish year round. Some of these areas have narrow and shallow entrances but then open up into large pond like areas. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
I had the opportunity to join one of New Hampshire’s headboat companies on a two-hour night fishing trip this past weekend. Nearly half of the boat had never fished before!!! The trip started off a little slow but we moved around until we found some action and lots of it. Mackerel were coming over the sides one after another; one young man was surprised to have two mackerel to a hook. We returned to Hampton Harbor as the sun was setting; what a great way to spend an evening! Everyone had a great time, especially those that had never been fishing before; I think it is safe to say they will be back! They are targeting mackerel and striped bass on the two-hour night trips right now, but usually switch over to blues once they come in strong, so pick up the phone before you head down. I highly recommend these trips. They are always a blast, not to mention short enough for a youngster’s attention span.
As of July 1, the NH Recreational Saltwater Fishing License is now $11! (You don't need a license if you are fishing from a party boat.) - Becky Heuss, Marine Biologist
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Copyright 2011 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
NH Weekly Fishing Report - July 7, 2011
Stocking report: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/Stocking/current.html
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Send the young’uns to Fish Camp! July 31 – August 5: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2011/News_2011_Q2/BCC_Spaces_062111.html
><> North Country
We were able to hike into Sheehan Pond this past week. Water temperatures were ideal for fishing (high 60s). The slight breeze was ideal to keep the horseflies down and four Canada geese graced our presence. The water temperatures, at least in the North Country, have been below average for this time of year. Rivers are still in the low 60s and ponds have been averaging in the high 60s. Perfect for catching that trophy fish you have been dreaming about. Even with the high air temperatures over the holiday weekend, water temperatures have held their own.
It is a beautiful time of year to try a new waterbody. Take a hike into one of our remote ponds. Try Sessions Pond (Dummer) or Munn Pond (Errol). I’ve heard great news on the status and health of the brook trout in these waters. You could also try your luck with pickerel in Cherry Pond (Jefferson). Umbagog is still fishing well if you’d like some bigger water for bass; and so are Profile and Streeter for brookies and rainbows, respectively. Enjoy New Hampshire! – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
This report is entitled “Hot and Cold.” It’s July and the heat has arrived! Big lake temps are running in the 72-74 degree range, and that means the landlocked salmon and lake trout are down….salmon at least 35 feet, lake trout even more. Early morning anglers (0430 hrs!) will often find salmon and especially rainbow trout a lot closer to the surface. By the end of July, as young-of-the- year (YOY) smelt gain some size, rainbows and salmon will be feeding on schools of these smelt in the surface waters, and will be noticeable by boils in the water, not unlike bluefish slashing at baitfish. You definitely want to be on the water early, as this is vacation time, and it seems that the water-skiers have learned to take advantage of the morning calm. Hexagenia mayflies are hatching on Winnisquam now, providing rainbows and salmon with a change of diet. These are the days that our salmon and rainbow trout put on weight, as food is readily available, and with the YOY smelt growing to size, it’s the “good times” out there! Streamer flies, long shank size 6 and smaller spoons will work well now. I continue to remind anglers of the “Landlocked Salmon Anglers Pledge” (http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/salmon_anglers_pledge.html) and the basic theme…protect and enjoy our salmon fishery, it is finite, and fragile, and the actions of every angler are critical to sustain it. Now the “cold” part! I recently travelled to far northern NH to stock Kennebago (Maine strain) brook trout fingerlings into a remote pond that was not stocked by helicopter. Although you can get close to this pond by 4X4 truck…I wouldn’t venture in there without a good, high ground clearance vehicle. Even then, there is a muddy slog through a swamp to gain access to the shoreline. Once there, I was amazed by the boats tied (and chained) to trees…a very good sign that this pond provides some good fishing for brookies! I was joined by North Country biologists Dianne Emerson and Andy Schafermeyer, in addition to my fellow Region 2 biologist John Viar. A special guest was my long-time hunting and fishing pal, Roger (he brought his canoe) and his friend Rich. All together, we stocked approximately 50 pounds of fingerlings (120 per lb) into this most beautiful cold-water pond (temp 65 degrees). I must tell you, the drive is long, but that country is so far removed from what we are accustomed to; we are blessed to have ponds like this to explore. And, by the way, Roger and Rich stayed and fished after the work was over, and enjoyed a summer afternoon of watching deer (doe and fawn) swimming across the pond, and also caught some nice brookies! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
We
’ve been out electrofishing and dealing with a fish kill on Spofford Lake recently, so not much to report this week from an angling perspective – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist ><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Now that the shad transfer season has wound down, our annual surveys to assess populations of wild brook trout and their habitats are about to begin. For the past three field seasons, staff from NH Fish and Game have worked to fine tune the current wild brook trout distribution in the state and also record and increase public awareness on the issues that lead to degrading of both aquatic habitat and water quality. We've learned that partnerships formed with local conservation groups and angling groups can be an invaluable resource, not only to help with the surveys but also incorporate the data collected to use in land use planning and headwater stream protection. Although local conservation groups can have different priorities, a mutual desire to identify areas that contain clean, cool, well oxygenated water and protect them is shared. This month, we plan to work with the Hanover and Bath conservation commissions to evaluate parts of the Mink Brook and Ammonoosuc River watersheds. Given that these areas will likely have intact populations of wild brook trout, it is hoped that the information collected will be used in town level planning that emphasized the protection of both wild, self-sustaining populations of wild brook trout and water quality. In August, it is expected that we will return back to the southeastern part of the state to learn more about the isolated populations of wild brook trout found there. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
This past weekend was as much hit or miss with the fishing as it was with the weather. Heavy boat traffic over the long weekend was not conducive to fishing. Mackerel are still around, but they are requiring a little more effort and people are starting to pick up bigger ones now, not just the tinkers we had a week ago. We have received our first reports of bluefish (don’t say it too loud, you might scare them away!) which could also account for the slower fishing. These are being caught a little ways offshore, so you shore fishers will have to wait a while longer for your chance at them. Whaleback is open to groundfishing as of July 1.
Here’s to low traffic, nice weather, and more fish! - Becky Heuss, Marine Biologist
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NH Weekly Fishing Report - June 16, 2011
Stocking report: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Taking a dad fishing for Father’s Day this Sunday? Good idea! http://wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2011/News_2011_Q2/fathers_day_2011.html
Fishing Camp: Know a kid age 10-16 who wants to learn how to fish or improve their skills? Sign them up for the "Let's Go Fishing" week at Barry Conservation Camp (July 31-August 5). Cost for the overnight week at camp is $475. Register at http://extension.unh.edu/4H/4HCamps.htm.
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><> North Country
The North Country seems to be feast or famine this last week. Once again the cool nights have deterred fish from moving and feeding frequently but warmer weather yesterday flicked the switch. I saw a great photo of a 5-year old holding a two-year old rainbow from Pearl Lake. The 14-inch trout was no match for the length of the boy’s smile while holding his prize. The lower portion of Indian Stream fished well yesterday, and so did the upper Connecticut. Stocking has been in full swing for the past month so most waterbodies have been stocked at least once at this point. The lower Androscoggin has been giving up some beautiful brown trout, greater than 12 inches. Weather is touch and go for this weekend, with thunderstorms in Pittsburg predicted and sunny weather in Littleton. That’s the surprise of the North Country; once you pass through Franconia Notch it’s anyone’s guess. Check the weather first, but I bet this weekend and next week are going to be hot fishing up north. Be the first to head into one of the remote ponds for 2011. You may want to check with the Regional Office (http://www.wildnh.com/Inside_FandG/Reg_Office_directions.htm) as some local roads washed out after the tremendous storms we experienced this spring. Try Umbagog Lake for some fun with bass. This time of year (post-spawn) can really be exciting. – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
We’ve just experienced a “throwback” to early spring here in the lakes region of New Hampshire. Several days of low clouds, rain/drizzle and a hard east wind (with temps in the 50s) haven’t done much for fishing in this area. The water temperature in Winnipesaukee is still hanging in the mid-60 degree range. Bass remain on the nests in the open areas of the big lakes, while the back coves, where temps may be slightly higher may see the fry around the nests, are in the early stages of dispersal. A recent electroshocking survey on Opechee Lake revealed several bass (large and smallmouth) cruising the shorelines near the sites of “old” nests. Sunfish nests were quite apparent also in the shallow water in coves. It was interesting to find several landlocked salmon still in the tailrace of the Lakeport Dam! This is highly fishable water right now, because flows out of Winnipesaukee are extremely low, 250 cubic feet per second (cfs). The salmon were definitely excited by the current field! Also, don’t forget that Opechee is a “destination” fishery for rainbow trout as it is stocked annually with yearling rainbows. Opechee is not a lake trout/landlocked salmon lake, therefore general rules apply for the rainbows, 5 fish or 5 pounds, whichever is reached first, with no length limit. There is a fine boat launch near the southern end of the lake. Trout ponds still afford some good fishing, although day-time anglers will find the fish a bit deeper, while there are some fine insect hatches occurring at dusk. White Pond (Ossipee) (fly-fishing-only), White Lake (Tamworth) and Conner Pond (Ossipee) are all beautiful ponds to fish in the southern White Mt. Area. And don’t forget Duncan Lake (Ossipee), all feature some real nice brook trout. Stream fishing is at its peak now, and water levels are dropping, so don’t waste any time in getting out there! Aerial trout stocking of our remote trout ponds will occur soon. If you like to hike and enjoy a good meal of trout by the campfire, try one of our 48 remote ponds this spring/summer, the experience is memorable! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
The recent weather pattern has been keeping trout anglers very happy. Last week’s temperatures were really starting to warm water temps up and stream flows were running at summer-time lows. These cool temperatures and scattered showers will keep streams cool and trout scattered and actively feeding. Now is the time to hit your local trout streams before the summer heat comes in full force. A few days ago I fished a local pond that is managed for brook trout, except I was fishing for smallmouth bass. It was a cold, damp day, but the bass were on fire. Fish were post-spawn and actively feeding (these fish could also have been fish in the population that didn’t spawn this year). In four hours of fishing we caught around 30 bass. Wacky-rigged worms, shaky-head worms, and tubes fished along near shore drop-offs with scattered rocks was the ticket. I need to get out and fish more of these smallmouth ponds and lakes in the next couple of weeks before water temps really warm up and the smallmouth head out to deep water for the summer, which makes them more difficult to locate and catch. – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
As with our counterparts in the Monadnock/Upper Valley area, who are working to increase spawning success of American shad in the Connecticut River, we are charged with the same restoration program within the Merrimack River watershed. To date, around 700 pre-spawn American shad have been released in the upper portions of the Merrimack River in Boscawen and Concord. This section of river has been identified as suitable spawning habitat, a location once thought to be utilized freely by American shad before impoundments restricted access here. These shad are initially trapped at the fish lift in the Essex Dam (Lawrence, Mass.). The Connecticut River inherently has a more productive shad migration than what has been observed in the Merrimack River. As of this week, over 244,000 shad have been counted in the Connecticut while slightly over 11,000 shad have been counted in the Merrimack. On a positive note, the Atlantic salmon returns for the Merrimack River are at near record numbers. Between 1982 and 2010, records indicate the best return year was 1991 with 332 Atlantic salmon returning to the Merrimack River. As of this week, already 315 salmon have been trapped at the Essex Dam. We expect to continue to see Atlantic salmon being trapped for at least three more weeks. These fish are utilized for future egg production to sustain the restoration of the species. This year, some Atlantic salmon will be tagged and released in southern New Hampshire to monitor habitat selection and evaluate efforts to establish a more natural form of reproduction and restoration. Earlier this month, the second annual McQuesten Brook and Pond cleanup was held in Manchester and Bedford. Many thanks are owed to the staff from the Department of Environmental Services, NH Rivers Council, the city of Manchester, NH Fish and Game, and volunteers from the Anheuser Busch and the Manchester Fly Fishing Association. Despite a cleanup occurring last year, I was amazed at the amount of trash and litter still found. For example, 18 tires, 27 trash bags, a full size heating oil tank, 3 propane tanks, and 2 shopping carts, amongst much more was collected this year. Both McQuesten Brook and Pond are important urban habitats for countless fish and other species associated with aquatic habitats. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
I often get strange looks when I tell people that I’m a vegetarian. “You work with recreational fisheries and you don’t eat fish!?” I know, it’s a bit odd. It’s not that I have an ethical problem with eating animals; it’s simply that I don’t like meat. This fact does make me a bit of an oddity but it also makes me a great fishing partner (please, take mine!). My fishing preferences are also affected by my aversion, as mackerel fishing is my all-time favorite. Most people think of mackerel solely as a bait fish, they catch a few macks in preparation for their striper fishing. While striper fishing is fun, unless they are hitting hard my attention span is much too short for the effort that this prized fish demands. When the mackerel are in, they will hit on any small shiny lure, but mackerel jigs and mackerel trees are most commonly used. As I am only interested in the fishing, there is no reason to catch more than one at a time so I will use a single lure as apposed to the tree. They are a small fish -- but as they are related to the much larger tuna, they put up a good fight for their size. Great Island Common in New Castle is a popular and highly productive spot for mackerel; anglers have been having good results there recently. You could also try the jetties in Rye or Hampton; the jetties at Fort Stark and Odiorne Point are seemingly underutilized as well. Mackerel fishing, it’s not just for kids (but kids like it too)! – Becky Heuss, Marine Biologist
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NH Weekly Fishing Report - June 9, 2011
NH Weekly Fish
NH Weekly Fish Stocking report: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
NH Weekly Fish Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
NH Weekly Fish Fishing Camp: Know a kid age 10-16 who wants to learn how to fish or improve their skills? Sign them up for the "Let's Go Fishing" week at Barry Conservation Camp (July 31-August 5). Cost for the overnight week at camp is $475. Register at http://extension.unh.edu/4H/4HCamps.htm.
NH Weekly Fish Kayak Fishing in Rye: Learn how to fish for striped bass from your kayak at a class on Friday, June 17, from 3:00 -7:00 p.m. Leaves from Odiorne Point Boat Launch in Rye. Participants must be 18 or older. Cost is $25. Pre-registration required. To sign up, call 603-778-0015 and ask for Kelle Loughlin.
NH Weekly Fish Ct. River Boat Access Alert: Trailered boaters should avoid using the following boat ramps on the Connecticut River until further notice: Ashley Ferry Boat Ramp in Claremont, Bedell Bridge Boat Ramp in Haverhill, and the ramp in Orford. Significant mud and silt accumulation on the ramps means you risk getting stuck in the mud. These sites are okay for cartop boat launching.
NH Weekly Fish ><> North Country
NH Weekly Fish Whoa, talk about crazy weather! It is amazing what one week can do…Last week at this time it was rainy and cold. Tornado warnings in the North Country? Yes, plus high winds and storms with large hail. Water temperatures were in the low 40s in some locations during the morning hours. This week is the exact opposite: oppressing humidity and air temperatures in the high 80s. Water temperatures in some locations hit 70. Today it is supposed to change; let’s hope. These hot, bright sunny days are not good for fishing. Fishing yesterday in Indian Stream was pretty much over by 10 a.m. when the heat started rising. When the sun is bright and river temperatures begin to rise, trout seek refuge. It could result from the depth of a pool or venturing into a completely different waterbody. They will find it and forget about feeding until they are comfortable again. When that happens, you should think about taking a break too. Warm temperatures can be lethal to trout that are caught and released, even if they seem fit as they swim away -- delayed mortality is a common occurrence during heat waves. Trout like cold water, so when the surface temperatures exceed the low 60s, their return to the water can be quite a shock. If you want to keep the trout happy, fish when the air temperatures are cool and the bright sun is hiding. Now that water levels have dropped substantially, try your luck on the Connecticut River below Murphy Dam. It stays cool and the drop in water level has really turned on the feeding. Try a bead head nymph this time of year. It mimics many different aquatic insects in their juvenile stage. The weather this weekend is suppose to be much cooler, perfect for making a few casts into your favorite pond. Streeter Pond and Martin Meadow come to mind. – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
NH Weekly Fish ><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
NH Weekly Fish The landlocked salmon fishing has started to heat up, just as our surface waters have climbed into the mid-60 degree range! Reports of some big numbers are filtering in from the area lakes. Most fish caught are two-year-olds (adipose clip) with a sprinkling of some older age-classes, especially from Big Squam. A lucky angler recently stopped by the office with a couple salmon in the 5-6 pound range from Big Squam. Now, those in the know realize this is not a common occurrence on any of our salmon lakes, but it is heartening to hear of these impressive catches. Another tremendous salmon was caught recently from Pleasant Lake/New London -- it weighed a shade over 11 pounds! All this being said, remember, the two-year-olds are the future three-year-olds (real quality salmon) that are the mainstay of our fisheries. Please take a few minutes to review our “salmon anglers pledge” at http://www.wildnh.com/Fishing/salmon_anglers_pledge.html. It details proper handling techniques for salmon, and is “good” reading for anyone who is concerned about this valuable yet fragile fishery we are blessed to have in New Hampshire. Smallmouth bass are still sitting on their beds in most of our large lakes…I expect the fry to move up and off the nests in the next week. From mid-June through the first week of July, my favorite bass fishing occurs…..fly rods and poppers on hungry bass cruising the flats! Trout ponds from the lakes region north now have some great insect hatches occurring at dusk. Profile Lake has been producing some great brook trout, as well as the “next door” lake, Echo. Weekday evenings are best, we are getting into the summer tourist season and weekends in the notch can be really busy. - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
NH Weekly Fish ><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
NH Weekly Fish Water levels in area streams and rivers are dropping at a fast rate and the weather is getting hot and steamy. With weather like this, I like to get out for some stream trout early in the day and then again right at dusk. Sunscreen and bug dope are a must, as are some old sneakers and shorts for wet wading. Based on the reports I have been getting, I am definitely getting out for trout this weekend and so should you. The trout fishing on the upper Ashuelot River in Surry, Marlow, and Gilsum is hot right now! Anglers have been calling and stopping by the office telling us about the gorgeous rainbow and brown trout they are catching. Some of the rainbows are stretching the tape at 20 inches. I passed an angler on my way to work this morning on the lower Ashuelot River in Winchester and had to stop and see how he was doing. He had just started fishing, but said that in the past week he has been doing very well on trout, even catching a few holdovers. Reports from the Cold River in Walpole and Alstead have been good as well. Trout anglers are also doing well in lakes and ponds. Anglers are having trouble keeping trout off their lines in Forest Lake (Winchester) with some of the rainbows pushing three lbs. A fly troller I know caught an 18 inch brown trout in Gustin Pond (Marlow) just a few days ago. Some other hot fishing trout lakes and ponds to try include Swanzey Lake (Swanzey), Spofford Lake (Chesterfield), and Center Pond (Nelson). – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist ><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley The intense heat from this week causing an increase of water temperatures will be pushing trout species down to cooler depths. For those who tend to reduce their efforts fishing for trout during this time of year because of the challenge of fishing deeper, there are several available options that can be used that are both effective and relatively inexpensive. These items can be used easily in all watercraft including canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. Dodgers (sometimes referred to as flashers) can be tied directly to the terminal line. A short leader (typically less than three feet) is tied to the back of the dodger and the bait, lure, or fly is then tied to the terminal end of the line. Dodgers serve several purposes. They spin erratically giving your lure, bait, or fly a lot of action. The reflective material on them attracts inquisitive predators. They also provide a method to sink the line to greater depths. It is important to check the movement of both the dodger and your lure to ensure it has the proper motion at the speed you are trolling. Another simple tool one can use to access greater depths is lead-core line. This larger sized line typically requires a larger reel. The line is color coded, allowing anglers the ability to keep track of the amount of line out and approximate depth. The rate of line descent depends on trolling speed. While trolling for trout, I prefer longer leaders tied off of the lead core line. At a minimum, I prefer 50 feet of light pound (4 or 6 pound monofilament or fluorocarbon line). A small barrel swivel tied 4 to 6 feet up from your lure, fly, or bait is essential to prevent line twist. Windy days tend to work best while using lead core because the rocking of the boat can add action to the line. Our Inland Fisheries Program Supervisor, Scott Decker, has been doing well with lead core line at Pleasant Lake in Deerfield lately. He says trout are hitting between three and four colors right now on small Mooselook wobblers, during the early evening hours. There are some disadvantages of using lead core or dodgers. Since heavier lines and objects providing resistance are being used, these types of equipment can dampen the fight. Also, more distance is needed to make turns while trolling. This can be a challenge in some of our smaller trout ponds. That being said, anglers need to be particularly careful when fishing for trout when surface water temperatures are at their summertime levels. Appropriate gear (pliers, hemostats, rubber net, etc.) should be readily accessible to avoid additional exposure to uncomfortable conditions for trout. Anglers should also avoid handling fish with dry hands and equipment. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist ><> Seacoast Area Anglers have been reporting large schools of mackerel at the mouth of the Piscataqua. These schools have attracted the attention of the stripers. I suggest fishing in Great Bay and in the Piscataqua if you want to catch a striper. The charters and headboats are still catching cod and haddock if you’re interested in deep sea fishing. Just a reminder that the headboat companies on the coast have begun their summer schedules, with half-day inshore trips targeting mackerel. This past week, two colleagues and I went scuba diving for winter flounder along the coast. Equipped with gigs and a catch bag, we dove into the cold, rough seas in an area with a sandy/muddy bottom, ideal for flounder. Once under water everything was calm and I began to see dozens of impressions in the mud were the flounder had been. It was not long before I saw a winter flounder and made a quick estimate to make sure it was larger than the 12 inch size limit and then took aim with the gig. The three of us saw a dozen-plus flounders and took a half dozen home, ranging from 14.5 inches to 18 inches. It was a great experience that I recommend to those who have the right gear and skills; just make sure the flounder is legal size before you shoot. – Robert Eckert, Marine Biologist
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ng Report - May 26, 2011
Mark your calendar and round up your friends for NH Free Fishing Day – next Saturday, June 4! http://www.fishnh.com/Events/free_fishing_day.html
Stocking report: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
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NORTH COUNTRY
Sorry folks, we weren’t able to get a report for you this week. Look for us on June 2! – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
LAKES REGION/WHITE MOUNTAINS
As I write this report, I am blinded by the sun…which has finally made an appearance here in the Lakes Region after what seems like a month! The Lake Winnipesaukee water temperature has made it into the mid-50s, with many shallow bays and coves near 60 degrees. Bass spawning has commenced at last, a bit later than usual. Remember, our catch/release season on bass is May 15-June 15, artificial lures and flies only, and immediate release at the site of capture. Try fishing on the drop-offs where many non-spawning bass may lurk. Only a certain percentage of bass in a lake spawn for a variety of reasons, those are the bass that are “off” the flats. The white perch run in the Winnipesaukee River in Laconia is still “on,” and while fishing the river, you just might catch a variety of other species. I recently met two young fishermen behind Martel’s Bait & Sport Shop in Laconia, situated on the Winnipesaukee River, who had a couple nice lake trout on a stringer, caught with worms! Laconia, “the City on the Lake,” is a great spot to spend some time fishing. The Winnipesaukee River runs right through downtown Laconia, and shoreline fishing in this area can be very exciting. Rainbow (and lake) trout are found in the river along with landlocked salmon, bass, pickerel and of course, white perch, now on their spawning run. Avery Dam, near the historic Belknap Mill, the outlet structure for Opechee Lake, creates a deep plunge pool below its turbines, where I have seen salmon caught well into late June! Further upstream is Opechee Lake, which holds stocked rainbow trout and numerous landlocked salmon that “drop down” from Lake Winnipesaukee. The outlet of Winnipesaukee, Lakeport Dam, also is home to a very popular tailrace fishery below the dam where rainbow trout and salmon are caught each spring. Further south, on Lake Winnisquam, is Lochmere Dam, another fine place to fish, where the short stretch of river flows into Silver Lake. Look for good perch action here in the spring (white and yellow) with some great smallmouth and largemouth bass thrown in for good measure. While water temperatures remain in the 50-degree range, you will also encounter rainbow and brown trout here. The Pemigewasset River is still running high; we’re waiting for a few “dry” days for this river to begin to recede. As soon as we “dry out,” hit the streams because the insect hatches are on right now! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
MONADNOCK/UPPER VALLEY
Just heard a few reports of anglers doing very well on rainbow trout in Forest Lake (Winchester) and Silver Lake (Harrisville). An angler reported catching a 19” holdover rainbow at Silver Lake this week. I also heard from an angler fishing Willard Pond (Antrim) who has been catching all three species of trout stocked there (tiger trout, rainbow trout, brook trout). Additionally, he reported landing a 17-inch tiger trout, which is definitely a holdover fish! In addition to the good fishing, Willard Pond is a beautiful place to fish. It is just under a hundred acres and undeveloped, with a totally wooded shoreline mostly owned by NH Audubon. There is a gravel ramp and gas motors are prohibited. The pond is fly-fishing only and trout pond regulations apply.
I received a note the other day from an angler I have been emailing with for a number of years and finally met this past winter while fishing Nubanusit Lake. Brian and his son, Brian, Jr., seem to get out on the water (or ice) every chance they get. They are both very interested in learning new techniques and fishing for everything that swims. Turns out that last week, predicted storms kept them close to home and so instead of fishing a lake trout/salmon lake, they fished a nearby bass pond. After striking out on one shoreline, they figured out that given the still-low water temperatures, they should be fishing the opposite shoreline as it receives the most sun. First cast on the new shoreline with a floating Rapala resulted in a nice 2-lb. largemouth. After that, it was game on, and the father and son team caught and released over a dozen largemouth. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
SOUTHEAST NH/MERRIMACK VALLEY
We expect to be able to release more broodstock Atlantic salmon soon. If flow rates continue to subside, it is expected that all of these fish will be out by the middle of next week. The watersheds of the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee rivers have taken a lot of time to drain this year. We have already received reports of multiple fish being caught in the Pemigewasset River in Bristol/New Hampton. I'd like to say thank you to our volunteers for all the help this past week while stocking trout in the Cocheco River. During the annual Cocheco River Clean Up Day, organized by Great Bay Trout Unlimited, hundreds of brook, brown, and rainbow trout were scattered in the river by the local boy scout troop and students from local schools. A trip to the Cocheco River in Dover is highly recommended. The Liberty Mutual/Measured Progress trail provides ideal access to this scenic river on the northern side of the river beginning at Watson Road. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
SEACOAST AREA
The stripers are hitting! Anglers have been reeling them in on the Town Landing in Newmarket and the Swasey Parkway in Exeter. If you have yet to try striper fishing, now’s your chance. It can be quite a thrill to have a striper on your line. If you land one you may find yourself “hooked” on striper fishing. It’s open season for winter flounder. You can try angling for these delicious flatfish from various jetties and bridges on the coast, although you may have more success from a boat. Whichever mode of fishing you choose, stay close to the mouths of estuaries and harbors for greater success. Remember that these fish have small mouths, so use small hooks. Winter flounder have a minimum length of 12 inches and a bag limit of 8 fish per day. Groundfishing has been “hit or miss” lately and many fishing attempts have been thwarted by rough seas. However, this past Sunday seemed to be an all around good day. Despite the closure on Whaleback, you don’t have to go all the way out to Jeffery’s to catch cod. Anglers have been doing well on Old Scantum, which is much closer and therefore more accessible to smaller vessels – Jessica Devoid, Marine Biological Aide
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Copyright 2011 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov. C
NH WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – September 9, 2010
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
BARRY CAMP CHALLENGE – Next work weekend is Sept. 25-26: http://wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2010/News_2010_Q3/Barry_Camp_Update_090110.html. Also – Did you attend Barry Camp as a youngster? Want to share your camp memories? See http://wildlife.state.nh.us/barrycamp/barrycamp_memories.html
Stocking report: Stocking is done for the season. Previous reports at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
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><> North Country
Ah yes, September! Crisp mornings full of dew and mountain streams full of active brook trout. Water temperatures are beginning to cool down after the tremendous heat wave. Leaves are just starting to change in some of the low lying wetlands in northern New Hampshire. This time of year is the most beautiful in my opinion. The leaves change to bright orange and red and so do the brook trout. Try attractant patterns if you are fly fishing. This time of year brook trout are getting ready to spawn and prior to the act, they can get quite feisty. Hatches are not real prominent but that’s okay because the fish attack anything that aggravates them so a perfect match is unnecessary. Warmwater fish are still active right now, too, which makes this time of year the perfect potential. Try ponds or vegetated sections in rivers that you missed over the summer. You may catch quite a thrill. We are also gearing up for some of our fall stocked waters. Akers Pond, Pearl Lake, and Martin Meadow Pond are worth a try for rainbows. These are just some of the ponds throughout New Hampshire that have no closed season that receive a load of fish in the fall. Good luck and don’t forget the kids. Just because school is back in session doesn’t mean you can’t save your time for the weekends. They may need a nice nature break! – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
As summer is on the wane and September is here, the big lake fisheries are coming to a close on September 30, for lake and rainbow trout, and of course, landlocked salmon. I have had several good reports of salmon and rainbows caught in Winnisquam Lake recently. The stomach contents of one salmon had a white perch YOY (young-of-the-year) in its gut. During our large lake forage fish studies, we often encounter pelagic (free-ranging) perch, both yellow and white in our trawls. Although our coldwater fisheries are pretty much dependent on the rainbow smelt, juvenile perch, especially in late summer/early fall constitute an important component in our salmonids’ diet. The forage fish survey on Winnipesaukee was just recently completed, and the smelt population looks to be in great shape, with a good age-class composition of YOY and older aged smelt in the samples. We will continue on to the other big lakes (Sunapee, Big Squam and Winnisquam), and hopefully have similar results. Word is out about an 8+ pound landlocked salmon caught somewhere in the lakes region. Now that is some kind of salmon!! I will be enjoying these last few days of salmon fishing with my fellow biologists, and other fishing buddies, some I haven't fished with in quite a while. It's a great time of year to look back on the past season, and relish the time left on the water with friends. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
I recently ventured out on Nubanusit Lake in Hancock in pursuit of smallmouth bass. In the year and a half that I have been working here at Region 4, I have yet to have heard much about anglers targeting smallmouth at Nuby, so I thought I would give it a try. I lucked out on this day as it didn’t take me long to find some schooled up smallies. I started on the near shore drop-offs where there was some wood and rocks. I was fishing a drop-shot rigged with a three inch Berkley Power Bait Minnow to imitate a smelt, the main forage in the lake. After fishing near shore with nothing but tiny bass that couldn’t even take the bait, I started to move to the deeper water in the cove I was fishing. As soon as I got into 30 feet of water, I started nailing the bass. They were all solid fish from 15 to 18 inches and for a short time I was hooking-up on almost every cast. What a blast! Other lakes in the Monadnock Region to give this tactic a try are Silver Lake in Harrisville, Spofford Lake in Chesterfield, and Dublin Lake in Dublin. – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
The cooler nights are slowly beginning to take a bite out of the warm water temperatures throughout the state. This, in concert with shorter periods of daylight, is triggering the spawning stages of mature trout. With only about a month left of fishing in the designated trout ponds of New Hampshire, anglers have an opportunity to catch trout with brilliant coloration that goes nicely with the soon to be changing leaves as a backdrop. Designated trout ponds close on October 15 but several other waterbodies remain open throughout the entire fall. Massabesic Lake (Auburn), Pleasant Lake (Deerfield), Beaver Lake (Derry), Catamount Pond (Allenstown), and Willand Pond (Somersworth) are just some of the examples of waterbodies that can be fished throughout the year. See http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/year_round_trout_ponds.htm for a complete list of waterbodies without closed seasons. While recently speaking with anglers at the Hopkinton State Fair, some expressed concern about their fishing experiences in 2010, particularly when targeting cold water species in rivers and streams. Up to this point, it has been a bad year to be a fish in southern New Hampshire. Record heat and lack of rain have dried rivers to a trickle. In some instances, streams that regularly have consistent flow year round are completely gone, leaving only an exposed stream bed. Other streams have a few disconnected pools with no flow where some fortunate fish have managed to find refuge. This emphasizes the need for vegetated buffers along stream corridors. Not only does vegetation provide cooling shade and habitat when trees are allowed to fall in, buffers also slow the rate of runoff, allowing flows to be released more consistently and gradually. When stream buffers are removed and replaced by impervious surfaces, the valuable rain water is flushed down a stream (along with contaminants associated with parking lots) almost immediately, causing the stream to return to low flows very quickly. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
As we all know, Earl was a bust! The storm was certainly successful in stirring up our waters. Strong northwest winds following the storm further added to the frustration of shore fishers, whereas off-shore fishers took advantage of the abundance of forage stirred up by the turbulence. With the storm and winds behind us, I suspect fishing will return to normal. The headboat companies and a few offshore anglers have reported some large pollock being caught. One angler reported that as he was reeling in his pollock, a blue shark tore through his fish! The upcoming weeks should produce some exciting offshore fishing as these large fish move into the area. Striper fishing may soon see significant changes as the fish prepare for their annual fall migration. Stripers will start to move out of the bays and rivers in pursuit of baitfish. They will begin to feed heavily as our daylight hours decrease. This heavy feeding enables the fish to bulk up for their return to their natal spawning waters in the Hudson River, and the Delaware and Chesapeake Bays. As the fish move out, look to our beaches for the action! The fish will start to congregate right off shore where you will likely see them actively feeding at the surface. If you see a surface blitz, it’s time to run and gun! A surf caster will do well using either live eels or top water plugs. Evening and early morning hours will see the most action. Good luck and tight lines! – Lon Robinson, Marine Bio-Aide
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
NH WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – SEPTEMBER 2, 2010
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
Stocking report: Stocking is done for the season. Previous reports at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
NORTH COUNTRY:
What is a heat-wave and what does it mean for trout fishing? A heat wave is a period of unusually hot weather. That is what we have been experiencing these last few days of record temperatures in August and September. It has been stifling at the very least. What does this do to fish? You think they are okay because they are constantly surrounded by water, right? Wrong! These oppressive temperatures negatively impact fish as well. The habitat that fish live in is directly related to weather. If the weather is cool and rainy, then rivers and streams flow well and remain cool. If weather is hot and dry, then rivers without cover tend to be the same. What is cover? Well cover can be any structure or thing that provides protection, in this case for the fish. It may be shade from the hot sun or a deep pool to ward off bird predation. Knowing this, one can assume fish are either going to venture into deep pools or migrate up or down the stream to areas with more shade or to cooler tributary confluences. If the fish don’t have that freedom to move, then they have to make do during the thermal stress event. If they don’t, then they die. This is what happens during the late spring/early summer when the air temperature warms up rapidly and fish don’t have time to acclimate to their new environment. We call such an event a fish kill. So with that harsh lesson, I would recommend letting things cool off before you head out fishing for trout. They are already stressed and most likely spending their energy seeking cool refuge. Try focusing on warmwater species like northern pike, large- and smallmouth bass and yellow perch. Target vegetation beds and log structures. They will be where the fish are hiding. I would try Cedar Pond, Martin Meadow, Forest Lake, Pontook and Moore Reservoirs. If you would like to fish a river, check out the Connecticut. It remains cool even in hot weather. These spots also provide some swimming opportunities if you would like to take a dip yourself. -- Dianne Timmins, Fisheries Biologist
LAKES REGION/WHITE MOUNAINS:
It looks like summer doesn't want to end here in the lakes region. Temperatures have soared back into the 90's and there is not any rain on the horizon, short of a parting blow by hurricane Earl. The big lake temps are currently hovering in the low 70's. A recent trolling excursion on Lake Winnisquam with fellow biologist Ben Nugent turned up several lake trout in the 17-19 inch range, and a fat rainbow trout. Salmon seem pretty rare on Winnisquam, I really don't know why, as the lake has been stocked continuously with approximately 2,000 yearling salmon each year. I did notice several bait pods on the upper (north) end of the lake, lending some hope that the smelt population is on the rebound. I noticed a heavy hatch of flying ants on the lake that morning; early risers should anticipate that the rainbows will begin to gorge on these ants. Trolling for salmon and lake and rainbow trout is about the only show in town; they are still about 30-35 feet down, 5-6 colors of lead core line. We used small single hook streamer flies and a small DB smelt for patterns. The smelt survey is on-going; we should wrap up Winnipesaukee in a couple nights. We are finding smelt pretty much everywhere. Last night, we worked out in the "Broads" between the Gilford and Tuftonboro shores. It was very encouraging to see a good number of older-aged smelt in the trawl sample. Only one month left to salmon season...get out there and enjoy, I'm sure we will have a long winter! -- Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
SEACOAST NEW HAMPSHIRE:
As I said last week, with the storm going through, things definitely changed. The effects of the unsettled sea were apparent this week when we went diving in Gosport Harbor on Monday for Fish and Game. We were expecting good visibility and sandy bottom -- this is the Shoals after all. Well, what we got was a mucky bottom that was easily stirred up, making visibility fairly low. We did see a few skates and plenty of lobster though! The changing seas also stirred up some bluefish this weekend. The headboat companies reported a banner day, and I talked with a few anglers on Saturday who had caught them down in the Hampton area as well, so it wasn’t just the professionals that were able to find them! One important tip I got from successful striper fishermen was to get out there early. When I say early, I mean get out before sunrise. Take your time and work your way seaward; stripers' location will move with the tide and the time of day. Poke around in all of the coves, eddies, and anywhere you find a rock pile for them to lurk behind. Things seem to be going well at the moment so let’s all hope that Earl doesn’t cause things to do a 180 on us! -- Rebecca Heuss, Marine Biologist
SOUTHEAST N.H./MERRIMACK VALLEY:
If climate change predictions are correct for the Northeast, then we may have to get used to the weather that we have seen so far this year. Most models predict more intense and more frequent rain events in the winter and spring, followed by long periods of summer drought. This year, we saw three flooding rains in early spring, and now we are enduring yet another heat wave. Anglers familiar with certain rivers, lakes or ponds have been commenting on how low the water is this summer. Summer can be a stressful time for fish, especially during prolonged periods without rain. High water temperatures, low flows, and low oxygen levels make life difficult during the hot months of summer in rivers and streams throughout the state. We experienced the effects of these low flows first hand a few weeks ago, during our electrofishing surveys on the Lamprey River. Thousands of common shiners, fallfish, longnose dace, and young smallmouth bass were trapped in pools, barely connected by a trickle. Without the ability to move, these fish are at the mercy, not only of the sun, but also of predators like mink and blue heron. While there is not much we can do about the weather, there are things we can do to help maintain healthy summer flows in our rivers. Water withdrawals for irrigation, drinking water, and other uses can impact aquatic species when too much water is removed during periods of low flow. The Ipswich River, in Massachusetts, has actually been known to dry up in the summer due to the over use of water. There is a need to support emerging legislation in New Hampshire that will protect instream flows. At the local level, you can support changes in zoning that protect riparian zones along rivers and streams, reduce the total amount of impervious surfaces like large parking lots, and encourage stormwater management that allows water to filter back into the ground instead of running directly into a river or stream. These practices will help precipitation absorb into the ground and restore groundwater, which ultimately maintains summer river flows, rather than flow as runoff directly into rivers and streams, which worsens flooding. Unlike the more developed areas of southern New England, where instream flows are already a chronic problem, New Hampshire has a chance to be proactive on this issue. If we take steps to protect instream flows now, then we can maintain healthy water levels in our rivers and streams and help prevent that prime spring fishing season from shrinking for future generations. Learn more at the NH Department of Environmental Services Instream Flow Protection Pilot Program webpage: http://des.nh.gov/organization/divisions/water/wmb/rivers/instream/index.htm -- Matt Carpenter, Fisheries Biologist
MONADNOCK/UPPER VALLEY:
Over the next few weeks, the Warmwater Fisheries Program will conduct surveys of young-of-the-year black bass (largemouth and smallmouth bass) in Lake Winnipesaukee, Big Squam Lake and the Connecticut River. These surveys are performed annually using our electrofishing boat. During these surveys, shorelines are sampled and all young-of-the-year bass are captured. Landmarks and GPS coordinates are used to ensure that the same area of shoreline is sampled each year. All captured bass are identified as to species, weighed, measured, and released. Scales are taken on larger fish in order to later age the fish to determine if it was a young-of-the-year or an age-1. The objectives of these surveys are to determine: 1) fish size; 2) relative abundance (# fish captured per hour of sampling); 3) to examine relative abundance by species among years; 4) to compare size by species among years; and 5) to compare size between species among years. These surveys are important because black bass populations in the state are managed solely by natural reproduction, and size of young-of-the-year bass during their first fall can be an important factor in their over-winter survival. Monitoring young-of-the-year bass size and catch rates allows us to gauge potential year-class strength and can provide for early detection of any needed management options. -- Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program:
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
NH WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – August 26, 2010
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
Stocking report: Stocking is done for the season. Previous reports at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
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><> North Country
The leaves are beginning to change in Coos County, days are getting shorter, and successful fishermen are again changing their approach. Fly anglers are noticing subtle differences in the insect hatches on their favorite waterbodies. In August, I always enjoy fishing large terrestrial flies like grasshoppers and flying ants. Lately, they have not been as successful. I've seen very small mayflies and stoneflies in dark greens and browns. After a whole summer of feeding on them, most fish are very wary and it takes a perfect cast to fool them. I also like to fish a lot of streamers. After an entire growing season, those fish born in the spring are reaching a size where larger fish are noticing them as a food source. An overlooked streamer is the squirrel-tail, which mimics all kinds of minnows - especially dace. My favorite standby streamer is the Black Ghost or the Coachman. When fish are rising to flies that I can't see or identify, I will usually cast a very small (#24) Griffiths Gnat. I've landed some very large fish on these and other tiny flies. When darkness approaches and visibility decreases, I go to a special fly box filled with chartreuse Wulffs that make a strike easy to see. Although temperatures are decreasing there still exists a "heat-of-the-day" fishery where fish seem to go into a period of inactivity. At these times, I flip bead-headed nymphs into fast water. For the past few seasons, I've been using a strike indicator to help notice hits. My favorite bead-headed flies include hare's ears, pheasant tails, and prince nymphs. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
Well, we have finally received a much-needed soaking rain here in the Lakes Region! We are now in the third day of a hard east/northeast wind, which is not the best weather to go trolling on our big lakes! Actually, surface temps have dropped, and this may trigger landlocked salmon to head "shoreward." I have noticed a trend the last few years where adult landlocked salmon can be seen in rather shallow water, running along sandy/gravel shorelines, as early as the first week of September! These salmon can be seen leaping out of the water, several feet into the air, and then crashing back into the water, only to repeat this tactic along the shoreline. All I can figure, is this is a pre-spawn activity, enjoyed by the salmon, as part of their spawning ritual. I have seen schools of these fish along the shorelines, and have successfully fly-casted to them with small streamers - bright colors are best. Remember, not all salmon partake of this activity, so don't completely give up on off-shore trolling. Also, early morning anglers on Lake Winnipesaukee may encounter salmon slashing schools of smelt off of Welch, Diamond and Rattlesnake islands as surface waters cool. This is an exciting time for anglers, as these fish have no respect for boaters – I’ve had them 5 feet from my boat during these times! Lake trout are "setting up" at this time of year, so try some vertical jigging on those calm mornings. Small jigs, tipped with plastic grubs, fished over or near suspended bait pods, will often have lake trout launching up from the depths after these targets. Use your electronics to locate bait pods (suspended are the best) as they’re being attacked by trout. As always, remember you are angling for coldwater fish, try to minimize fight time, and decide quickly to harvest or release fish. The southern White Mountains reveal splashes of color already, it makes me yearn to grab a fly rod and pursue the most beautiful trout, the squaretail! With some more rain, look for remote ponds to be productive. I know I will be fishing the same mountain streams after things quiet down up north, before the foliage season peaks. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
I haven’t been able to bass fish for a couple weeks but managed to get out on Saturday for most of the day with a co-worker. I had a plan going into the day as I have noticed that the majority of the time two bass anglers are in a boat together, both tend to cast in the same direction. For example, both anglers will concentrate on the shoreline or emergent vegetation or a rocky point or shoal. This weekend, we took the opposite approach. I positioned the boat within casting distance of the shoreline and one of us would cast to shore and the other would cast in the opposite direction towards deeper water. This allowed us to cover more water, find fish faster, and made it so the person fishing in the back of the boat was not casting into areas that the front angler had already fished. Another strategy we used this weekend was to throw lures to places where you wouldn’t normally fish them. For example, we threw jigs and topwaters to deeper water and casted drop-shots and small crankbaits towards shore. It is important to remember that most anglers are creatures of habit and fish can become conditioned and wary of the same old lures. While a bass that frequents a particular log on a shoreline will likely see hundreds of jigs during a summer, it is likely that this same fish has not seen many drop-shot rigs or tiny crankbaits and that might be just the advantage you need. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Southeastern New Hampshire has several multi-tiered fisheries that may be worth a try at the tail end of the summer. These waterbodies have fishable populations of both stocked trout and warmwater fish species and give the angler an opportunity to completely change tactics if things are working too slowly. Some of my recommendations are Massabesic Lake, Bow Lake, Lucas Pond, Hothole Pond, the Suncook Lakes, Pleasant Lake, and Tower Hill Pond. The accessibility of these waterbodies can vary (i.e. Lucas Pond has a no motor restriction and Tower Hill Pond is only accessible by walking in). Some of these waterbodies can be sleepers, particularly when it comes to warmwater species in the lakes and ponds more well known for their trout fishing. Multi-species rivers that I would recommend are the Cocheco River, Lamprey River, Exeter River, and Merrimack River. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
The blues are still here so they must not have read my last report or they would have disappeared for sure! These are nice sized fish, too, not the little snappers you can find in the rivers. Unfortunately we still don’t have any reports of them coming in close enough for you shore fishermen out there, but keep trying, it’s bound to happen one of these days. The most striper action lately has been down in the Hampton area, the river and harbor down there have been producing lots of schoolies and some nice keepers as well. Groundfishing has stayed pretty good, some days slower than others, but overall everyone is doing well out there. Of course it doesn’t really matter what I write because by the time this comes out that storm front will have passed through and everything will change!
These cool nights may have fooled you but there is still plenty of summer left and lots of fishing opportunities on NH’s coast! – Rebecca Heuss, Marine Biologist
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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NH WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – August 5, 2010
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
Stocking report: Stocking is done for the season. Previous reports at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
><> North Country As New Hampshire anglers watch the calendar turn to August, some serious adjustments are made in order to be successful. If you are a trout fisherman, middle to late summer is when your skills and talents are really put to the test. Water temperatures have been at levels that make coldwater fish seem to disappear. One of the greatest challenges to fishing at any time of the year is finding fish and predicting their movements. Preferred habitat now is deep, well-oxygenated, and cool water. Finding all three is rare, so fish will settle for one or two of these refugia. Once these areas have been identified, you may have to employ additional tactics like fishing early in the morning or at dusk. To complicate matters even further, fish like trout and salmon will decrease their energy expenditures when they are under stressful conditions. A brook trout, for example, will be less likely to aggressively rise for food in these warm water months. If you hope to fool one with a delicate, lifelike presentation, you could be doing battle with a fish who may not even want to feed. Good luck. August is still one of the best months to fish in Northern New Hampshire. They daylight is still quite lengthy and conditions on the water can be very comfortable for fishermen. If the deerflies don't carry you away, you can spend an entire weekend trying to figure out where fish are and, more importantly, where they are not. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
Sorry folks, no report this week but I’ll be back next week. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
Night sampling has been keeping me busy and away from fishing for the past few weeks, but reports I have received at the office from anglers have been promising. Rainbow trout are still being caught with regularity in Spofford Lake (Chesterfield; some up to 22”), Swanzey Lake (Swanzey), and Silver Lake (Harrisville). I have also heard of some very nice landlocked salmon and lake trout being caught at Nubanusit Lake (Hancock/Nelson). Bass anglers have been having a banner summer in southwestern NH. Reports of nice largemouth have come in from Highland Lake (Stoddard), the Connecticut River (Hinsdale), Warren Lake (Alstead), Crescent Lake (Acworth), and Laurel Lake (Fitzwilliam). For smallmouths, I would try Swanzey Lake (Swanzey), Dublin Lake (Dublin), Stone Pond (Marlborough), and the Connecticut River (Chesterfield/Westmoreland). If the bass aren’t biting in the shallows, try the deeper water off of reefs, deep shorelines, and secondary points. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
While there are many public boat ramps and shoreline access points for saltwater fishing, shoreline fishing opportunities on freshwater can be difficult to find in New Hampshire. Most shorelines are privately owned and access to many lakes and ponds is limited. However, if you look hard enough you can find some excellent fishing spots in southeastern New Hampshire. Swains Lake, in Barrington, can be accessed along France Road. The two small bridges are good places to cast for largemouth bass and yellow perch. The Cocheco River is known for its brown trout. It can be accessed, at a number of points, by an unpaved road that runs along the left side of the river looking downstream from the Watson Road Dam in Rochester. The Cocheco River is one of three rivers in southeastern New Hampshire that have extended catch and release seasons for trout. The other two are the Lamprey River, downstream of the Wiswall Dam to the first Railroad trestle downstream of Packers Falls, and the Isinglass River, from the Route 125 bridge to its confluence with the Cocheco River. More warm water fishing (for bass, pickerel, and sunfish) can be found on the section of the Isinglass River that parallels Route 126 and eventually crosses under Route 202 in Barrington. The black crappie in the lower Lamprey River are best approached through the ice, or by canoe, but there is shoreline access along the back side of a graveyard in Newmarket, near the confluence with the Piscassic River. If you would prefer a little peace and quiet, Northwood Meadows State Park contains a small pond with bass fishing and trout in season. Although it is not technically a shoreline access site, the UNH Rec Center on Mendums Pond, off of Hall Road in Barrington, has very reasonable rates for canoe/kayak rentals, which provide access to a smallmouth bass population that gets relatively little fishing pressure. I could go on, but the best way to find new shoreline fishing opportunities is to go for a drive. With respect for private property and careful attention to "no trespassing" signs, check all the places where a road crosses a river or runs along the shoreline of a lake or pond. With patience you might stumble onto a new fishing spot that is too good to share. – Matt Carpenter, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
Well, of course the day that I write there are bluefish is the day they disappear. One of the headboat companies reported hooking into a school of them last week, but we have not heard a thing of them since. Striper fishing hasn’t been too bad, still most of the catching has been out in the ocean, not much going on in the rivers. One thing of note on the groundfishing front this week, a lot of white hake (a member of the cod family) was brought in over the weekend. The time is approaching again with incoming tide happening at dawn and dusk, check those tide tables and get out fishing, don’t let the summer disappear without visiting the coast! – Rebecca Heuss, Marine Biologist
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
NH WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – July 22, 2010
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
Stocking report: Stocking is done for the season. Previous reports at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
><> North Country
Sorry folks, no report from the North Country this week. We’ll be back next week! –Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
This is beginning to look like the summer to break all heat wave records. Luckily, our big lakes stratify and are able to support our various coldwater species, i.e., landlocked salmon, rainbow and lake trout (and don't forget the smelt, without which we would have no coldwater fisheries!). Deep-water trolling is best accomplished through the use of downriggers, although lead-core line will get you down to the approximate depths also. Trolling small, single-hook streamer flies, in a myriad of patterns, will do the trick. For even more excitement, try pinching down the barb on your flies; this may lead to the loss of some fish, but will allow a quicker release at the boat. Reports from Winnipesaukee reveal that some fine 3 year-old landlocked salmon are being taken at depths approaching 30-40 feet. Also, lake trout seem to be "on the bite," just a little deeper, near bottom structure. Hexagenia (mayfly) hatches are still evident, as I have seen the empty nymphal cases floating in Lake Winnisquam. Early morning anglers should be able to attract rainbow trout and possibly salmon at first light with lighter lines near the surface, as these fish gorge on mayflies. As always, remember that as you bring these fish up from colder waters, they will be stressed and every precaution in handling should be exercised! My favorite hot-weather fisheries are still going strong, brookies in our mountain streams and ponds. It seems lately that we have been receiving more thundershowers; this is much needed to keep these fisheries afloat. –Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
In the past, I have generally stayed away from thick aquatic vegetation while bass fishing. It wasn’t that I didn’t realize warmwater fish species are attracted to vegetation because it provides shade, oxygen, food, and a place to ambush prey from, I just didn’t feel like dealing with all the snags and wasted time removing vegetation from my lure, as well as the fish I continually seemed to lose once hooked. That all changed a few years ago when I started using some different lures and leaning more towards the “superlines.” These superlines (Berkley Fireline and Stren Microfuse are two of those available) are fantastic for fishing in vegetation as they are incredibly strong, don’t stretch, have a thin diameter relative to the same pound test in monofilament, and cut through vegetation very easily when snagged or when fighting a fish. Any superlines in 15-20 lb. test should do the job, although I know some anglers that use up to 50 lb. test when fishing in thick vegetation. For bass fishing in vegetation, I like to use a weedless frog or 5-6” plastic worm or senko-style lure. Frogs that I have had good luck with include the SPRO Dean Rojas Bronzeye Frog and the Tru-Tungsten Mad Maxx Frog. These baits cost about $9 apiece and less expensive Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops name-brands are also available and work well. These lures are virtually snag-proof, and you can cast them a long way. Either reel them in a steady fashion or alternate between fast reels and stops. To fish a plastic worm or senko-style lure, I simply thread it onto a hook so that the lure covers the straight part of the hook, making sure the lure sits straight when I am done. I use a weedless hook such as those available from Eagle Claw in a size 1/0. By keeping your rod tip high and reeling at a moderate pace, the worm will swim across the surface of the water and over and around vegetation. A good trick with this technique is to stop reeling as the bait reaches any open spot in the vegetation and let it sink. Often, a bass that has been following the lure will take that opportunity to strike. –Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Fish community surveys are continuing in the Lamprey Watershed with an emphasis on identifying self-sustaining brook trout populations. Although the majority of the watershed tends to be warmer wetland streams, some new populations of wild brook trout have been documented. These streams appear to have the ability to stay cooler from groundwater (springs) entering them. Water temperatures at these streams have been close to 20 degrees cooler. Additionally, we spent a day last week looking at fish communities in the Winnicut River watershed. This information will likely help prioritize and guide restoration projects in the future, as much of this watershed is now free-flowing and a variety of different diadromous species (those that migrate between fresh and salt waters) have access to the watershed. American eels, redfin pickerel, and wild brook trout are some of the species we captured. These species are designated “species of concern” in New Hampshire's Wildlife Action Plan. –Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
What a week for fishing! Anglers are doing well with just about everything lately. Mackerel are back in force and with them came the stripers. Most of the reports coming in are from outside of the harbors, not much action on shore recently. While performing Fish and Game’s juvenile lobster SCUBA survey in the Piscataqua River this past week we were approached by some surfacing stripers, no doubt looking for a lobster snack. It’s nice to know they’re around, even if lobster is expensive bait! These stripers were seen on an incoming tide in Sprague Cove, the first cove downstream of Dover Point on the NH side. The groundfishing has been steady out at Jeffrey’s Ledge, unfortunately they’ve been catching a similar number of dogfish, but if you are willing to fight with the dogs it is well worth the effort. The most common question around the coast these days: Are the blues in yet? We are still getting a few reports of them from our south but have yet to see them in NH waters. –Rebecca Heuss, Marine Biologist
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – June 10, 2010
Stocking report 6/1 – 6/4: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
><> North Country
Recent heavy storms in northern NH have revitalized trout fishing in many areas. Water temperatures have dropped and flows have increased. These conditions have enabled Fish and Game personnel to not only follow the stocking schedule but actually increase numbers where possible. Surplus fish are finding homes throughout the state. – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region It seems like our long, dry spell has ended with fronts passing through every couple of days with showers and some pretty wild thunderstorms to boot! These rains were very much needed as small brooks and streams had reached low water conditions early in the season. Lake temperature is now in the high 60s (68 degrees on Winni) and bass nesting has pretty much ended. Look for adult bass roaming the shorelines, as the bass fry (jet black in color) swarm the shores looking for places to hide. This is my favorite time to fish for bass with small panfish poppers. I have caught bass during the middle of the day over rocky shoals with my fly rod and poppers. This is great sport as the bass rise up to smash the popper on the surface!
As the school year ends, it is time to take the kids fishing, and what better species to seek than our ubiquitous sunfish! Sunfish nest after the bass, so look along the shorelines for their nest depressions and drop a small fly or tiny panfish popper over their heads and watch the reaction! Sunfish populations can easily overpopulate small ponds and even some larger waterbodies, therefore, they are a great species to target with the younger set. This a great way to introduce kids to the sport of fly-fishing. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
The smallmouths haven’t gone deep yet. A recent outing to Swanzey Lake in Swanzey and Nubanusit Lake in Hancock/Nelson produced many nice smallmouths. Fish were caught in three to eight feet of water on shaky jig heads and tubes. The fish were mainly along the edges of dropoffs and anyplace there were rocks. The key was definitely rocks; where there were no rocks, there were no fish. The stocking trucks are still rolling out of the Milford Hatchery. Everything has been stocked at least once this spring and now the hatchery is putting out surplus rainbows. Trout fishing should continue to be good with the much needed rain from last weekend and cooler temperatures this week. – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Last week, NH Fish and Game partnered with staff from the Anheuser Busch Facility in Merrimack, the city of Manchester (Department of Public Works and the Urban Pond Restoration Program), the Manchester Fly Fishing Association, Merrimack River Valley Trout Unlimited, NH Department of Environmental Services, NH Rivers Council, and several other volunteers and local businesses to perform a stream and pond litter pickup in Manchester. The stream is located on the western side of the city and despite being seated in a densely developed urban landscape, has a robust wild brook trout population. It is expected that this will be the first step of many to ensure that this species, so important to our heritage and legacy, is able to remain present in our largest city. Additional restoration activities and potential funding sources will soon be prioritized and identified. In three hours, 27 tires, over 25 full contractor trash bags, 3 bicycles, a car gas tank, a home heating oil tank, 2 shopping carts, 2 computers, a television, and close to a ton of rusted metal items were gathered. In the end, we essentially found everything but the kitchen sink...wait a minute, we also found a sink. As interest for this project continues to grow, it is our hope that those who litter develop an understanding of the value of aquatic systems...even in an urban environment. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
So I hope I am not the only one that read my fishing report last week, but I took my own advice and went to Rye Harbor on Sunday. The weather was unarguably wet and cold, but the winter flounder fishing was hot! A friend and I fished for about 3 ½ hours Sunday morning and never left the harbor, but we managed to land 21 winter flounder, only one of which was under the minimum size limit of 12 inches. We took home 14 fish between the two of us, with the biggest at 19 inches, a few over 18, the rest between 15 and 17, and they were a nice rewarding dinner for enduring the rain.
Our staff in the field, speaking with anglers all along the coast and at boat ramps, say they’ve seen the striped bass catch picking up, primarily in the Piscataqua River and Great Bay, and the mackerel are still available for bait.
Finally, the “Mudhole” is still providing giant cod again this year, but it’s a long cast from shore -- so use the boat, go with a friend, or get on a charter or headboat before it slows down. – Kevin Sullivan, Marine Biologist
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
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N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT - May 27, 2010
NH Natural Leaders – Final reminder! JUNE 1 deadline for NH teens (ages 14-17) to apply for the NH Natural Leaders program. Scholarships available. Please spread the word! See http://www.wildnh.com/naturalleaders.
Stocking report 5/17 – 5/21: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
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><> North Country
Get ready. Spring is about to turn into summer and freshwater fishing in New Hampshire is about to get exciting. Trout ponds have been stocked often and early and, as insects react to warming air and water temperatures, fish respond by feeding very heavily. No one can predict what the summer will be like, but if we see warm, dry conditions, trout fishing won’t get any better than it is now. Bass are beginning to spawn and visit shallow water. They are also driven by the warming water and an increased metabolism to feed, feed, feed! Many times, predicting fish behavior is the key to successful angling. Right now, warmwater fish are following predictable patterns and offer an awesome fishing opportunity. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region
Water temps are soaring...big lake temps are now in the mid 60s, and bass are on the nests. A recent netting foray to Big Squam Lake revealed that some bass eggs have already hatched as schools of bass fry were observed along the shorelines. Trout pond fishing is still hot; try fishing in the evening from 6:00 to dark, that’s when the fly hatches (mayflies) will peak. Now is an excellent time to catch a mess of horned pout (bullheads) for a delicious meal. Any soft-bottomed cove in any lakes region water has pout. Squam has some nice ones -- we netted bullheads up to a foot long, although some prefer younger fish for a meal. Silver Lake, Tilton/Lochmere has excellent shoreline fishing for pout. Bullheads are not fussy, a generous nightcrawler fished on bottom at night will do the trick. Just be careful of the dorsal and pectoral spines, they can inflict a painful wound! – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
The phone always seems to be ringing off the hook at the regional office in Keene this time of year. Anglers want to know where the hot spots are and what to use to tempt their respective species of choice to bite. An interesting phenomenon that always presents itself is the difference in success rates among anglers. In a single week, I might get calls or emails from three different anglers that have all fished the same water with drastically different results. For example, last week it was trout anglers calling about the Souhegan River. One angler was frustrated after a couple days on the water without so much as a strike and seemingly no sign of trout activity, while the other angler was thrilled with his catch rates and the size of trout he was catching. The two anglers were fishing in the same general area of the river and both using fly tackle. After offering condolences/suggestions and congratulations to the respective callers, I began to think about the disparity between the two callers. The number of trout stocked into a waterbody each year does not typically change, and stocking location and timing generally remain consistent (disclaimers to this are extreme environmental conditions such as floods and/or emergencies that the Conservation Officer must respond to such as Search and Rescue events). It is always frustrating to not catch fish or to feel that the fish are not there; believe me, I have been there plenty of times myself. However, I always try to remind myself that the opportunities are there and that the next fishing trip might be the one where everything comes together perfectly. If you find yourself having a fruitless day, don't despair. It is likely the fish are there but perhaps weather conditions are wrong, the fish are not on the feed, you are in the wrong location, or you are using the wrong bait/lure/fly. Don't hesitate to call your regional Fish and Game office with your questions or concerns. We can offer you suggestions on where to go and what to use for tackle, but we can't make the fish bite! – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Anglers have been reporting good days at several of southeastern New Hampshire's lakes, ponds, and rivers. Several trout indicative of holdovers have been reported in Pleasant Lake (Deerfield), Stonehouse Pond (Barrington), and the Cocheco River (Dover). Anglers targeting bass have also noted both largemouth and smallmouth bass beginning to occupy early summer habitats. The recent decrease in flow in the local rivers and streams and high jumps in temperatures are beginning to be a concern. Fish kills, primarily of sunfish species, have been reported in some smaller, shallower ponds throughout this region. The examination of collected specimens indicate high algal counts and weakened immune systems associated with spawning and decreases in oxygen from spikes in water temperature. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
We were out on the Piscataqua River for most of the day yesterday during our SCUBA program for lobster monitoring. We observed several large groups of birds (terns and gulls) working the bait hard. The largest bird activity was near Henderson Point on the Kittery Side of the river near the old Navy Prison, but other flurries of activity were near the mouth of the harbor at the Coast Guard Station and by Pepperel Cove. We couldn’t get close enough to see the bait, but at nearly this time last year there were a large number of juvenile sea herring in the river, so hopefully this is a repeat. As any good coastal fisherman is likely to say, “FOLLOW THE BIRDS!” When bait are balled up in schools tight enough for terns to divebomb them, there are no doubt stripers below. We have measured some keeper-sized striped bass from the Great Bay this week, as well as some landed in Exeter near the boat ramp downtown.
The winter flounder season is open again. As always, I strongly suggest Rye Harbor for shore anglers targeting winter flounder, and Great Boars Head for those with access to a boat. – Kevin Sullivan, Marine Biologist
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT - May 20, 2010
NH Natural Leaders – Deadline extended to JUNE 1!: Do you know a NH teen ages 14-17 who is interested in a career in natural resources? ...Wants to make a difference for the environment? ...Would like to hike, camp, canoe and plan a conservation project for their community this summer? Please tell him or her about NH Natural Leaders! Applications due June 1. Scholarships available. See http://www.wildnh.com/naturalleaders
Stocking report 5/10 – 5/14: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
><> North Country
So the sun has finally kissed the North Country. The weekend started out cool but the spring sun is really efficient and by early afternoon water temperatures are rising into the 50s. Just enough to get the suckers moving to spawn and the brookies are hot on their tails. Umbagog has been fishing fantastically, with some large smallmouth bass being caught. These fish should be spawning now, so fishing may slow down a touch. Don’t forget, harvest is by artificial lure or fly only until June 20 on this interstate lake. The warm weather doesn’t take long to heat up the tannic rivers of the North Country, so get out there and fish! – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region
Our up and down spring weather continues, two to three days of blustery northwest winds followed by showers and southeast to east winds. As one would expect, this pattern has raised havoc with bass spawning this spring. Look for nesting to really commence this week as the weather pattern (seems?) to quiet down. Remember, bass are protected in NH from May 15 to June 15, with a strict catch and release policy, artificial baits only. Try deeper water drop-offs for cruising bass that may have not nested. Landlocked salmon are still pretty close to the top, we caught several with 2-3 colors of lead core in Winnipesaukee recently on trolled live shiners, lip-hooked. This technique, with a single, fine wire hook, resulted in the easy unhooking of salmon. Of the two fish harvested, one was feeding heavily on smelt. Also, some very nice lake trout have appeared, up to eight pounds in size. You will find the lakers deeper, try 40-60 feet down, in water 50-70 feet in depth. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
It’s one of my favorite times of year -- time to leave the boat at home and do some walking along the banks of tributaries that enter the Connecticut River while casting for smallmouth bass and walleye. Depending on your location, the walleyes are already there and the smallmouths should soon follow. I have found that walleye typically enter these tributaries a month or so after they spawn and that smallmouth will either be there in order to find suitable spawning substrate or to “recover” and fill their bellies after the spawn. Whatever the reason for their presence, the underlying theme here is an opportunity for some fantastic fishing from shore... the kind that would make any kid’s eyes widen, so don’t forget to bring them. If the tributary you wish to fish has a dam close (within 5 miles) to the river mouth, I would start there. If there is no dam on the lower portions of the tributary, I would suggest starting at the mouth and fishing upriver. Lures of choice include soft jerkbaits on an unweighted hook, poppers, shallow running hard jerkbaits, and 4” curly tailed grubs on a 1/8 or ¼ ounce jig head. I typically cast toward the far shoreline and then let the current do the work while slowly working the lure back towards you. Fly anglers can also have a blast with this type of fishery using weighted wooly buggers, muddler minnows and deer hair poppers. These fish are typically hungry and not particularly picky, so if you don’t get a strike with 5-10 minutes, start moving until you find them. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
We've received reports of broodstock Atlantic salmon anglers catching fish primarily at Hooksett and Sewalls Falls (Concord) in the Merrimack River as well as the Pemigewasset River along Coolidge Woods Road (New Hampton). These fish are spreading out fast. One fish has already been captured in Lawrence, Massachusetts -- it migrated this far in less than two weeks. Anglers targeting warmwater species will start to find aquatic vegetation blooming and growing quickly. Don't overlook these areas. Vegetation provides essential cover with young-of-the-year bass, perch, crappie, shiners, etc. With a high concentration of these small fish, the predator fish don't stray too far. Finally, anglers who target some of the larger lakes in southeastern New Hampshire may see some increased catch rates real soon. A hatchery surplus means a big bump to the stocking rates of rainbow trout in at least two waterbodies. I would recommend fishing Massabesic and Bow lakes. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
The reports of stripers in New Hampshire have started to become more frequent. I was told that a few anglers were catching striped bass at Henry Law Park in Dover. The groundfish have started to come closer to shore and the party/charter boats are doing very well, already starting half-day trips. The near-shore trips south of Hampton are catching a surprising number of redfish along with keeper-sized cod. The “fishermen migration” is already becoming apparent, with boats all begin to head for the “mudhole,” where large congregations of giant cod occur near the end of this month. As a note, the winter flounder fishing season has a short closure this year and cannot be taken between May 15 and May 24. There is also a closure for Atlantic wolffish in federal waters. – Kevin Sullivan, Marine Biologist
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT - May 13, 2010
NH NATURAL LEADERS – Deadline extended to JUNE 1!: Do you know a NH teen ages 14-17 who is interested in a career in natural resources? ...Wants to make a difference for the environment? ...Would like to hike, camp, canoe and plan a conservation project for their community this summer? Please tell him or her about NH Natural Leaders! Applications due June 1. Scholarships available. See http://www.wildnh.com/naturalleaders
STOCKING REPORT 5/3 – 5/7: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
SALTWATER Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
><> North Country
What a crazy spring it has been. We have experienced summer and winter weather all during the last two weeks. Twelve inches of snow one day and 70 degrees the next. The hatches have been on and off, with blue-winged olives hatching during a snow flurry. That was a sight! All in all, the water temperatures are still in the forties and trout fishing remains slow. There have been some salmon caught in the Connecticut Lakes, so don’t shut the door on us yet - grab your rod and head north for a jumper or two! – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region
The last week has been a roller-coaster ride in the Lakes Region. Cold overnight temperatures in the 20s have dropped water temps into the upper 40s again. Bass spawning has seen fits and starts this season, and now bass have moved back off the nest sites. Look for bass to cruise the flats once again as soon as temperatures stabilize. (A reminder that May 15 – June 15 is catch-and-release only for bass.) Trout fishing is the name of the game now, with great insect hatches (mayflies have appeared), look for pond fishing to be excellent now. Large lake rainbows are still cruising the shorelines of Winnisquam, Newfound and Winnipesaukee. Salmon fishing continues to be excellent with average fish of 19” and 2.5-2.75 lbs. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
The Contoocook River is a great place to fish for both cold and warmwater fish. A recent paddle on a short section of the river upstream of Powder Mill Pond made for an awesome late afternoon trip. Using light spinning gear and in-line spinners for hardware, we managed to catch five different fish species in just a few hours. We caught a bunch of smallmouth bass and yellow perch, along with a brown trout, brook trout, and a couple of fallfish. This river gets pretty warm in the summer, so now is the time to go after trout. Fish and Game stocks the Contoocook River with thousands of trout from Peterborough to Henniker each year and the stocking trucks have been very busy this spring. Get out and enjoy what these small New Hampshire rivers have to offer this spring. – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
There are some good activities for the whole family this weekend in southeastern New Hampshire. The annual Cocheco Field Day and River Cleanup Event will be held Saturday May 15 in Dover. The event begins at the lower lot of Measured Progress (off of Sixth Street) and goes from 10am to 2pm. Participants will learn about the effort to restore public access and maintain good water quality, as well as have the opportunity to help clean this scenic river. Additionally, there are several kids’ fishing derbies scheduled for southern New Hampshire this weekend; see http://www.wildnh.com/Fishing/fish_tournament_kids.htm. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
The first reports of stripers in New Hampshire have begun surfacing. I was told that a few anglers were catching ‘schoolie’ sized striped bass in Hampton Harbor, so it looks like they are starting to come a little bit farther north than the Merrimack. In a conversation this morning, I was told that someone encountered a striped bass in the Great Bay already this year as well, so hopefully it will be heating up in the coming weeks!
As a note, the winter flounder fishing season has a short closure this year; this species may not be taken between May 15 and May 24. – Kevin Sullivan, Marine Biologist
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> * * * * * * * N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT - April 22, 2010
Welcome to a new season of the NH Weekly Fishing Report!
If you’re new to the list, this is the first weekly fishing report for 2010. Each week from now through September, we’ll bring you fishing news and information from our regional fisheries staff, along with a link to the most current stocking report (during stocking season). If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.fishnh.com/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.
Here’s the stocking report for April 12-16: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm And guess what? NH Fish and Game’s now on Facebook! Link up today at http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame. ***If you’d rather get this fishing report on Facebook than by e-mail, fan or “like” us on Facebook, and click through the link at the bottom of this message to “uncheck” your subscription to the e-mail fishing report.
Happy Earth Day, and best wishes for an excellent season!
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><> North Country
We have been sampling pike out of Jericho and Partridge Lakes and they have been pretty sly. Capture rates have been low and the quick snowmelt has us wondering if we missed the spawn. We saw a huge one swirl by the net opening at Jericho and unfortunately our timing on the net adjustment wasn’t good since we scared him out of the net. DARN!!!! But at least we know they are out there. Last weekend’s snow/rain event is keeping brook and river temperatures low and water levels elevated, which is good for the trout stocking. It helps to spread the fish out. Fish have also been stocked earlier in some spots, allowing them more time to acclimate to their new environment. This helps all of you wild trout seekers. Temperatures in the rivers up north are still in the low 40s, but flows are receding and fish are hungry, so head out this weekend and try your luck. --Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region
Lake temperatures are rapidly warming up into the upper 40s and lower 50s. Smallmouth bass are cruising the shorelines and are becoming more active. Look for the white perch spawn to begin within 3 or 4 days at the usual spots -- Winnipesaukee River, Laconia, Smith River, Wolfeboro, and the Melvin River, Tuftonboro. Trout ponds open on the 24th (Saturday) and insect hatches are way ahead of last year. Some real nice rainbows are being caught in high current areas of Winnipesaukee, check out Paugus Bay. --Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
Fishing on the Connecticut River is heating up fast. Walleye have been biting below the dams and river mouths for the past month and will continue for about another month. The yellow perch have spawned in most southern NH setbacks and the largemouth bass and black crappie are starting to bite well in the coves and backwaters. --Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Trout anglers should be very satisfied when the reel in a trout at one of the southeastern designated trout ponds (these waterbodies open on Saturday, April 24). Fish are larger than previous years as indicated by recent sample counts. Yearling brook trout and brown trout will be around 11 inches and about half a pound while yearling rainbow trout will be about 12 inches and average close to a pound apiece. Some of the stocked three-year-old brook trout will be over 17 inches and 2 pounds. Anglers pursuing other species should find bass, crappie, and panfish starting to become real active now. Try fishing shallow areas in dense vegetation. --Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast
The recreational groundfishing season has begun in New Hampshire. Due to a delayed start of the federal Atlantic Cod season (April 16th this year), many anglers have been targeting and successfully landing large catches of haddock but have had to reluctantly release those keeper-sized cod with a frown on their face. Some reports have indicated that anglers are leaving the waters with as many as 15 to 20 haddock each before the 16th, but now that the Atlantic cod season is open anglers can keep 10 cod per day in addition, with a minimum length of 24 inches! Most of the cod and haddock fishing is occurring offshore near Jeffreys Ledge, but Atlantic cod CAN be found closer to shore this early in the season. --Kevin Sullivan, Marine Biologist
FISHING SEASON RESOURCES:
*Main Fishing page: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm
*Buy your license online: http://www.greatlodge.com/nh
* Saltwater angler registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
*Boating & fishing access map: http://www.fishnh.com/pubaccess_maps/pubaccess_map.htm
*Past fishing reports: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing_reports.htm
*Tournaments: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing_tournaments.htm
* Depth maps: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/bathy_maps.htm
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CONTACT: Lt. Robert Bryant: (603) 271-3127 Jane Vachon: (603) 271-3211 January 15, 2010
USE EXTREME CAUTION ON THE ICE
CONCORD, N.H. – Winter recreational activities are in full swing, but anglers, skiers and snowmobilers are being urged to use extreme caution when going out onto ice-covered waterbodies, New Hampshire Fish and Game officials warned today. Windy conditions at the outset of the season’s cold weather, and uneven temperatures since, may have affected ice formation and has left open water in some areas typically frozen over by this point in the winter. “Parts of the big lakes aren’t completely frozen yet, and we’re seeing some waterbodies with areas of open water where people might not expect to find it,” said Col. Martin Garabedian. “The bottom line is that people need to use extreme caution on the ice, and be highly aware of local conditions before snowmobiling -- especially at night -- or doing any winter sports on the ice.” One example of the unusual and potentially dangerous ice conditions is Webster Lake in Franklin, which still has open water near the Sucker Brook inlet and spans quite a distance out into the middle of the lake. These unusual conditions haven’t been seen on the lake in at least twenty years at this point in the season. It is believed that the current of the brook and the high amount of wind are the reasons the water remains open. Even after the lake does freeze, that particular area will need to be used with extreme caution. Be sure to assess ice safety before you go out by using an ice chisel or axe to chop a hole in the ice to determine its thickness and condition. Continue to do this as you get further out on to the ice, because the thickness of the ice will not be uniform all over the waterbody. Though all ice is potentially dangerous, the Cold Region Research Laboratory in Hanover, N.H., offers a "rule of thumb" on ice thickness: There should be a minimum of six inches of hard ice before individual foot travel, and eight to ten inches of hard ice for snow machine or ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) travel. Keep in mind that it is possible for ice to be thick, but not strong, because of varying weather conditions. Weak ice is formed when warming trends break down ice, then the slushy surface re-freezes. Be especially careful of areas with current, such as inlets, outlets and spring holes, where the ice can be dangerously thin.
Tips for staying safe on the ice include:
* Stay off the ice along the shoreline if it is cracked or squishy. Don’t go on the ice during thaws.
* Watch out for thin, clear or honeycombed ice. Dark snow and ice may also indicate weak spots.
* Small bodies of water tend to freeze thicker. Rivers and lakes are more prone to wind, currents and wave action that weaken ice.
* Don’t gather in large groups on the ice.
* Don’t drive large vehicles onto the ice.
* If you do break through the ice, don’t panic. Move or swim back to where you fell in, where you know the ice was solid. Lay both arms on the unbroken ice and kick hard. This will help lift your body onto the ice. A set of ice picks can aid you in a self-rescue (wear them around your neck or put them in an easily accessible pocket). Once out of the water, roll away from the hole until you reach solid ice. Ice safety should be paramount for anyone recreating on New Hampshire’s lakes and ponds. Don't assume ice is safe just because it's there.
To download a brochure from Fish and Game called "Safety on Ice," visit http://www.wildnh.com.
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-- Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
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N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- September 24, 2009
This is it, folks, our last NH fishing report of the season. Thanks for reading - we hope you had a great time on the water this spring and summer. There's more great fishing to come, as reported by three of our contributing anglers below....
Last chance: The Kids Fishing Photo Contest, co-sponsored by Fish and Game and Kidz Rule USA magazine, ends September 30. Info: http://www.fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/kids_photo_contest_2009.html And - don't forget to join us for the National Hunting and Fishing Day Expo & NH Tour, this Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/expotour for Expo exhibitor details and a map of Tour locations! Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in New Hampshire!
For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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FROM MARK BEAUCHESNE: Pick your day to go pike fishing in the next month. This is when the big ones eat. They are fattening up for winter. Ideally, you want two days of stable weather, then fish the third day -- no need to get an early start. Your best fishing is from 10:00 to 3:00.
Stick to the main river, and focus on outside turns in the river. (I'm talking about the Connecticut, but pike are found in many waterbodies in NH.) Grass and weeds beds tend to be more productive in the fall. The mouths of coves and setbacks are great ambush spots for pike. I like to make several passes at these areas. The first time by may have caught their interest... the second time by, they'll eat. Keep your eyes focused on the area of your lure or fly; pike are notorious for following your offering. If you have time and space, change your retrieve, try to take the lure away from the fish. If the fish misses, cast right back to the miss. That fish is still looking to eat. Try floating minnow baits in perch colors and flies of the same hue.
Fall pike fishing holds out into early November. That is, as long as you can stand the boat ride when the air temperature starts to dive!
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FROM GABE GRIES: Fall fishing to me means taking advantage of one of our state's greatest fishery resources: the Connecticut River. Whether you are interested in panfish, perch, bass, northern pike or walleye, the river is the place to go. There are several locations you will want to key in on, regardless of what section of the river you are fishing this fall. I start by using my depth finder to find areas with 5 to 8-foot deep flats that have deeper water around them. These are classic locations in the fall to catch smallmouth bass and walleye. Last fall was no exception, as I boated numerous smallmouth bass, walleye, and even a couple small pike on jerkbaits. Pike are generally more prevalent in the setbacks and coves as the water starts to cool. As the water continues to cool and vegetation in the setbacks and coves starts to die, try fishing where these areas and the main river meet, and also any adjacent flats. The dying vegetation will cause baitfish, which had been living in the vegetation, to move to the main river, creating an incredible feeding opportunity for bigger fish. Jerkbaits, tubes, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits will all get the job done. As the water starts to approach the low 50s, concentrate on deep, large holes. Smallmouth bass and walleye will often congregate in these areas and you can have some 20+ fish days if you find the right spot. Drop-shot rigs, tubes, and grubs are your best bet here.
Hope to see you on the river this fall!
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FROM BEN NUGENT: Time is winding down to fish most of the rivers and streams in southeastern New Hampshire. Aside from some select rivers (sections of the Cocheco, Isinglass, Lamprey, Merrimack, and Suncook rivers), the season for angling on rivers and streams ends on October 15. Anglers should take advantage of the remaining season. Recent electrofishing surveys have indicated that stocked trout are likely still present in streams at fishable levels. The cooler summer with above-average rainfalls appear to have made these traditionally warmer waters more conducive to summertime survival of stocked trout. Anglers should target deeper pools and rapids with faster water in locations that aren't necessarily close to roads. Anglers should also take note of the fall Atlantic salmon brood stock season (http://www.wildnh.com/Fishing/atlantic_salmon.htm). More than 700 additional brood stock salmon will soon be released for the catch and release season beginning on October 1.
The majority of these fish are planned to be stocked in the Bristol/Franklin area.
In New Hampshire's lakes and ponds, it was a good summer to be a fish. The above-average rainfall likely decreased angling pressure while adding additional forage for fish to feed on. Several fish species (both warmwater and coldwater) that receded into deeper water during warmer periods are slowly able to revert to shallow waters as temperatures slowly decline. These movement patterns should increase opportunities for shoreline anglers to once again catch fish. Water temperatures are close to the mid to upper 60s now, and any stretch of cold nights will quickly reduce temperatures even more.
Although designated trout ponds close to angling on October 15, several lakes and ponds in southeastern New Hampshire remain open for fishing. Results from pond surveys in 2008 indicate that some ponds, despite receiving heavy angling pressure, still have a great deal of trout after the traditional end of the open-water fishing season. These trout that still remain are likely larger but well acclimated to the ecosystem. The challenge to catch these fish is increased but those who put their time in, have the potential to be rewarded by the catch of a trophy fish. To view a list of these waterbodies, go to: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/year_round_trout_ponds.htm. Some select waterbodies are managed with a fall stocking season, but other more popular lakes and ponds not routinely stocked in the fall often receive trout this time of year, after they are utilized for hatchery production. The intent of these fish is to enhance late open water and ice fishing seasons.
One great fishing season may be nearing its finale, but Fish and Game is working to provide you with an exciting fall and winter of fishing adventure ahead. Enjoy it, and watch your in-box for more fishing reports in April of 2010.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
POSSIBLE MOUNTAIN LION SIGHTING IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
CONCORD, N.H. -- The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department today reported that one of its staff members, following up on a routine report of a mountain lion sighting, saw what is believed to be a mountain lion in a rural area of Barnstead, N.H.
Mountain lions are known to exist in the wild in states no closer than Iowa and Florida, so it is not thought to be a dispersing wild animal, but rather is most likely an illegally released pet.
"Survival of this type of animal is typically extremely low as they normally do not have the developed abilities to catch prey on a consistent basis, and/or may have been de-clawed," said Fish and Game Wildlife Division Chief Steve Weber. "If the animal does survive, we would expect to collect hard evidence of its existence in the form of a picture, tracks, scat and/or DNA evidence." Mountain lions were extirpated from their range in the Eastern United States by the late 1800s, with the exception of the endangered Florida panther. According to the nonprofit research organization cougarnet.org, there have been four confirmed reports of mountain lions in the Northeastern U.S. since 1938.
"The Fish and Game Department receives numerous reports of mountain lions every year," said Weber. "We still have no documentation to confirm their presence. While we do not believe this is a harbinger of a recovering population of mountain lions in New Hampshire, it does add one more credible report to several others we have received over the years."
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-- Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- September 17, 2009
This week, fish culture operations supervisor Bob Fawcett reveals this fall's trout stocking locations. Also, Matt Carpenter, fisheries biologist with the Anadromous Fisheries Restoration Program, gives us a preview of exciting fall action fishing for brood stock Atlantic salmon.
Mark your calendars for the National Hunting and Fishing Day Expo and NH Tour coming Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/expotour for Expo exhibitor details and a map of Tour locations!
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in New Hampshire!
For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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TROUT STOCKED FOR WINTER ANGLERS
By Robert Fawcett, Fish Culture Operations Supervisor
Winter anglers in New Hampshire will have some trout stocked especially for them once again this fall. New Hampshire Fish and Game stocks trout every year during the fall months, mostly to bolster the winter ice fishery, which should translate into some exciting action for winter anglers this year.
Anglers going after trout can find lists of waters that remain open to the taking of trout year round on the Fish and Game website:
* Lakes and ponds - http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/year_round_trout_ponds.htm * Rivers and streams - http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/year_round_trout_streams.htm
Rules for waterbodies with special regulations are listed in the N.H. Freshwater Fishing Digest, available from license agents or on the Fish and Game website.
During the fall of 2009, Fish and Game will stock trout into a total of 24 New Hampshire lakes and ponds managed for trout with no closed season -- putting in more than 11,230 rainbow trout, 6,000 eastern brook trout yearlings and 2,950 brown trout.
Following is a list of New Hampshire lakes and ponds that will be stocked during the fall of 2009 (please note that the list below is the plan for 2009. There are many more N.H. waterbodies open for year-round fishing than are included on this list):
Beaver Lake, Derry Massabesic Lake, Manchester Opechee Lake, Laconia Waukewan Lake, Meredith Winona Lake, Center Harbor Chocorua Lake, Tamworth Wentworth Lake, Wolfeboro Crystal Lake, Gilmanton Akers Pond, Errol Cedar Pond, Milan Martin Meadow Pond, Lancaster Sunapee Lake (Little), New London Stinson Lake, Rumney Pearl Lake, Lisbon Laurel Lake, Fitzwilliam Silver Lake, Madison
Fish Culturists inventory their fish as they set up for winter, and make adjustments as they head into fall, having inventoried what they have and having calculated the number needed to meet the target for stocking next spring, based on past performance data. They let it be known, and the regional fisheries biologists plan a surplus-stocking schedule for the fish declared surplus, and they are distributed and released.
Fish and Game has also issued permits for private release of trout into select waters managed for trout with no closed season (in the Isinglass, Cocheco, Lamprey, and Exeter rivers). The fly anglers are purchasing fish and stocking them for recreational fishing enjoyment.
Berry Brook is stocked in fall and spring with sea-run brown trout. Open season is from August 16 through March 1 from the Bracket Road bridge to the beginning of the prominent large rock area upstream, restricted to single-hook artificial lures and flies. Note: This brook is closed year round to all fishing from the prominent large rock area to Sagamore Rd. There may be returning true salters, plus the surplus brood stock will be stocked out after egg taking, to recruit into a winter fishery.
Happy Fishing!
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BROOD STOCK ATLANTIC SALMON OFFER EXCITING FALL FISHING By Matt Carpenter, Fisheries Biologist, Anadromous Fisheries Restoration Program
Anglers looking for some challenging catch-and-release sport fishing while they're enjoying the fall foliage should head to the Merrimack and Pemigewasset rivers to hook the "King of Fish." October and November are prime months for fall Atlantic salmon fishing in New Hampshire. Expect some great salmon fishing by the first week in October.
This fall the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department will stock the Merrimack basin with about 800 brood stock Atlantic salmon, averaging about 2 to 3 pounds. The two-year-old fish, which we stock in the fall, are smaller than the 3- and 4-year-olds, which we put out in the spring -- but the tradeoff is that fishing conditions are usually better in the fall. Salmon are in no hurry to leave the river as the water temperature cools and lower average flows provide better access for anglers.
Fisheries statistics suggest that the success rate for catching salmon is higher in the fall than in the spring season. The brood stock Atlantic salmon season runs year-round, but all salmon caught from October 1 through March 31 must be released immediately. Brood stock salmon will be stocked this fall at two sites -- below the Eastman Falls Dam in Franklin and the Ayers Island Dam in Bristol. The first good spots to try for the brood stock salmon are below the Ayers Island Dam in Bristol along the Coolidge Woods Road, the Profile Falls Recreation Area (the access site near the Smith River confluence), below the Eastman Falls Dam in Franklin and the public boat launch behind the Franklin High School on the Winnipesauke River. Because the fish are migratory, anglers should also try fishing downstream as the season progresses, near Boscawen (in the Stirrup Iron Brook area), Penacook (at the mouth of the Contoocook River), at the Sewall's Falls Recreational Park in Concord and below the Garvins Falls Dam (Bow) and the Hooksett Dam. Find more information and an access map at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/atlantic_salmon.htm. Best bets for anglers are traditional salmon flies or trout streamers such as Grey Ghosts, Mickey Finns or any patterns that imitate small baitfish. Fishing with spinning gear is allowed in the section of the river below the Garvins Falls Dam in Bow. Anglers should review the special regulations for brood stock salmon at the Fish and Game website. To fish for brood stock salmon, anglers need a current New Hampshire fishing license and an $11 brood stock salmon permit; both are available at http://www.fishnh.com or from license agents statewide. All proceeds from salmon stamp permits support the Merrimack River Anadromous Fish Restoration Program, created in 1993 by Fish and Game, in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to help restore migratory fish populations to the Merrimack River watershed. Brood stock salmon anglers can help the program by reporting their catch to Fish and Game. Please call me (Matt Carpenter) at 603-271-2612 with any questions, comments, or just to share your fishing experience. We are always interested in your feedback on the brood stock program.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- August 27, 2009
This week, marine biologist Kevin Sullivan reports on seacoast catches -- including a longstanding record broken twice this summer!
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
FISH STOCKING: Stocking is complete for the season. Check the stocking page (http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm) for sites stocked in 2009.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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1 FISH, 2 FISH, RED FISH, BLUEFISH.......BLACKFISH??
By Kevin Sullivan, Biologist II, Marine Fisheries Division/Durham
That's right, this summer in New Hampshire a rarely caught fish by recreational saltwater anglers has been making its presence known. Although quite common in the waters of our southern neighbors such as Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the tautog (called by a common name of "blackfish") is not a very abundantly caught species in New Hampshire's Atlantic coastal waters. However, last month, a new state record was set not only once, but TWICE! The previous state record tautog was landed in June of 1999, and weighed in at 3 lbs., 12.48 oz and 18 1/4 inches long. Because of their scarcity this far north, that record had stood for 10 years and one month to the day; that is, until Graham Oakes of Derry, NH came along... Graham was fishing on July 16 from the jetty situated along the inlet to Hampton Harbor that is accessible from the Hampton State Park. He fished what he referred to as "the bed" near the end of the jetty and was able to win a game of outsmarting a 4-lb., 3.8 oz, 19 1/4" tautog, which won him the title of New Hampshire state record holder. When asked about his experience seeking out these less common fish, Graham told me he likes "'tog", he "knows where they hang out," and he catches 3 or 4 each year in New Hampshire. To all of you wondering how he does it, Graham let me in on his secret and said I could share it, so he's up for the competition. Graham's approach that has proven successful was cut strips of clam that he rigs in a popular freshwater setup known as the Carolina Rig. The story doesn't end there and Graham's competition came quicker than anyone would have guessed. Only four days later, Roland Groux of Hampton, NH, landed an 8-lb., 10.8-oz. tautog that was measured at 21 3/4 inches. This prize fish was also caught in Hampton, but was landed within the confines of the Hampton Harbor. Roland now currently holds the new state record, which is a considerable jump from the previous weights. There are still a few months of prime saltwater fishing left here in New Hampshire, so if enough anglers begin setting their sights on tautog, there's a chance at a bigger one. Just ask Graham and Roland! For those anglers that are still focusing attention on striped bass and bluefish, this season has been a learning experience. Much like last year, the numbers of both fish have been more dispersed and have put our fishing knowledge to the test. Most bluefish caught in recent weeks have been landed in the waters of Hampton and Rye, but the striped bass catches have been seen at most heavily used fishing access sites. In the summer months of June, July and August, the warming waters tend to slow down the voracious feeding behavior of striped bass, and push them into a holding pattern where they hang tight to rocks and ledges waiting for the food to come to them. During these months, stripers landed tend to lower in number but increase in size. A great approach for these stripers is to use whole live fish (Atlantic mackerel, pollock, menhaden) or frozen bait on an unweighted or lightly weighted leader. Fishing from shore or in a boat, try to get near the rocky edges of one of the points along the coast, such as Rye Ledge, Odiorne Point, or Great Boars Head. Move in fairly close to the shoreline, toss the bait into the waters near the large rocks and back the boat away from the shore as you let our your line to keep the bait from being pulled away from the rocks as you move away. If there is a cow striper hiding in the crashing surf between some of these rocks, they'll take the bait as it swims or drifts down. Experienced striped bass anglers in New Hampshire also can tell you that the months of September and October bring about more opportunities to land striped bass. In these months, the striped bass that came up this far north in large groups and then spread out into our rivers, harbors, and bays are now trying to 'carpool' back to the warmer southern waters for the winter. How does this benefit us as anglers? Well, as all of the stripers begin to congregate at locations such as the mouth of the Piscataqua River, they begin to move as a large school down the shoreline of New Hampshire, no doubt feeding along the way. To take advantage of their behavior, try using live eels as bait from a sandy beach such as North Hampton State Beach, Wallis Sands, or Hampton North Beach after sunset. For those anglers that are used to landing fish by hauling them over the side of a boat, it is a whole new experience when you wade out knee-deep in the surf and land a 40-inch striper like you might expect a fly-fisherman to land a 12-inch brook trout in a raging river. Remember, if the fish aren't biting every trip, it doesn't mean that they aren't there, it means that now is the time to challenge yourself to reach for a different lure, or mark a new spot on your map that may produce the trophy fish like Graham and Roland caught already this year.
Good luck and tight lines!
P.S.: The New Hampshire legal size for haddock in 2009 has been reduced from 19 inches to 18 inches, so get busy offshore and fill your coolers.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- August 6, 2009
This week, fisheries biologist Gabe Gries tells the story of Forest Lake in Winchester, where anglers came together to solve an access problem, and are today once again able to enjoy a fantastic fishery.
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
FISH STOCKING: Stocking is complete for the season. Check the stocking page (http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm) for sites stocked in 2009.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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Community Action Brings Back Public Access at Forest Lake in Winchester By Gabe Gries, Fisheries Biologist, Region 4/Keene
Forest Lake in Winchester is a beautiful 87-acre waterbody located in Southwestern NH, 7 miles from the Massachusetts border and 12 miles south of Keene. The lake has always been a very popular fishing location for local and out-of-state anglers and for anglers that stay at the Forest Lake Campground. A privately-owned boat launch allowed boaters access to the lake for decades until it was closed in 2004. Prior to the boat ramp closure, the lake offered a wonderful two-story (cold and warmwater) fishery which was made up of largemouth bass, chain pickerel, brown trout and rainbow trout. With the boat ramp closure in 2004, trout stocking was discontinued, as the general public no longer had reasonable access to Forest Lake. The closure was followed by a huge outcry from local anglers, now unable to access one of their favorite trout and bass waters. In an effort to regain public boat access to Forest Lake, the NH Fish and Game Department made attempts in 2005 to purchase a small parcel of land containing the existing boat ramp. Unfortunately, the purchase was never finalized and it looked as if public boat access to Forest Lake would remain a memory. That all changed in 2009! Sue LaPoint, a local sportswoman, and President of the Mt. Pisgah Sportsmen's Club in Winchester, decided that local anglers had waited long enough. She began talking with the landowner, town officials, local businesses, and area residents in an attempt to have the Sportsmen's Club purchase the property surrounding the boat ramp. Sue worked tirelessly on this endeavor and was met with support and positive feedback from all she contacted. After months of meetings, discussions and planning, the sub-division needed in order to purchase the property was approved by the NH Department of Environmental Services and the town of Winchester. Effective July 17, 2009, the Mt. Pisgah Sportsmen's Club became the proud new owners of the "Phillips/Conant Public Boat Ramp" on Forest Lake. Financial assistance with the purchase was also provided by a number of area businesses and individuals within the community. "We couldn't have done this without the support of the community, the previous landowner (Margaret Conant), and various donors," said LaPoint. On July 22, brown and rainbow trout were stocked again in the lake for the first time in five years! The NH Fish and Game Department will continue to offer the Club suggestions on parking location strategies and any advice they might need on boat ramp maintenance. The Forest Lake Improvement Association and the Winchester Conservation Commission are offering their support as well. Area anglers are excited to once again be able to wet a line in Forest Lake. Sean Graves, a bass angler from Chesterfield, stopped by the office this week to make sure that the ramp had been re-opened. "I am thrilled that the Mt. Pisgah Sportsmen's Club is so supportive of local anglers. I can't wait to take my son fishing there," said Graves. The Sportsmen's Club members, of which there are 70, hold fundraisers throughout the year in order to provide support to local youth and community organizations. Among other community activities, they host a "Christmas in the Park" event, an Easter Egg hunt, two youth fishing derbies, and a "learn to fly-fish" event each year. When I talked with Sue LaPoint a few days ago, she was thrilled with the purchase. "We received overwhelming assistance, both financial and otherwise, to make this happen. This community always seems to come together to support projects like this," LaPoint said. "Happy fishing and safe boating," she added. We hope you enjoy fishing this year in the Monadnock/Upper Valley Region and don't forget to take a kid fishing anytime you can. We are always happy to talk to you about fish and fishing so please contact us at Region 4 (603-352-9669; reg4@wildlife.nh.gov) if you have any questions. For a list of popular water bodies to fish for by species, please consult the Suggested Fishing Locations for the Monadnock Region/Southwest N.H, which can be found at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing_forecast/Locations_Southwest.htm.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- July 30, 2009
This week, coldwater fisheries project leader Dianne Timmins returns to her post with a fresh outlook on fishing, reflecting on her childhood experiences and planning some fishing adventures for her family as her new baby gets older.
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
FISH STOCKING: Stocking is complete for the season. Check the stocking page (http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm) for sites stocked in 2009.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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A NEW PERSPECTIVE:
It's never too soon to plan a child's first fishing adventure
By Dianne Timmins, Fisheries Biologist, Region 1/Lancaster
I remember my mom taking me fishing on Powwow Pond (Kingston) with my brothers. We'd purchase worms and head out for a morning or afternoon of targeting perch, with the bonus being a hefty smallmouth or largemouth bass. I remember my brother Kurt's interest fading the fastest and brother Jay was not big into worms, but I could have stayed all day or night long. If it wasn't for the biplane-sized mosquitoes, I think we would have. We'd also do some fishing on Kingston Lake (Great Pond) and catch sunfish. It has been a long time since I have angled those waterbodies, but rumor has it they still provide good warmwater fisheries. Now it's my turn to pass on the tradition: I'm a new mom with a fourteen-week-old daughter. In recent months, adult conversation and thoughts of fisheries were not a part of my immediate world. Two weeks ago, I returned to my work as a fisheries biologist and Coldwater Project Leader for NH Fish and Game. Now that I am back, I see things in a whole new way... At home in the evening, when I stare down into my daughter's eyes and she flashes her full-hearted smile, I can't help but think of what it will be like to take her fishing. I will start out as my mom did, with warmwater areas like Burns Lake and Forest Lake, both in Whitefield. There's nothing like sweet success to get a child hooked on fishing. Start by targeting sunfish and then moving into more challenging gamefish like bass, pickerel and pike. Another area to try is Partridge Lake in Littleton, where Fish and Game's most recent netting results indicated populations of both smallmouth and largemouth bass, above-average sized brown bullheads (catfish/horned pout), pickerel, pike and, of course, sunfish. Then, I'll get my little girl into brook trout fishing, starting with small streams and moving into larger rivers. We can head out to the Ellis River in Jackson -- or any small headwater stream, for that matter. Electrofishing surveys show that Ellis River contains only brook trout in its headwaters. We might start there, where the stream channel is narrow, and target pool habitats. I'll explain to her the importance of various types of habitats and how each one plays a critical role in a fish's life cycle. She will most likely call me a biology nerd or something, but I will still enjoy explaining what I do for work. As my daughter gets older, I'll call on my husband to assist in teaching her how to fly-fish. He is the one who taught me, and I am still learning new bits and pieces each time I go. We can then take family trips to the Connecticut River or the Androscoggin. Perhaps we'll head south to the Pemigewasset. The East Branch parallels the Kancamagus Highway. It will be fun to show her all our favorite parts of New Hampshire as she gets older, exploring each lake, river and mountain trail in turn. All of a sudden, a coo and squeak break my concentration. I look down to a little chubba with eyes full of glee. "Hi there!" I exclaim. "I was just thinking of you."
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- July 16, 2009
This week, Marine Division staffer Becky Heuss revs up for the arrival of bluefish along New Hampshire's coast.
FISH STOCKING: Stocking is complete for the season. Last week, the Pemigewasset River was stocked in Lincoln, Thornton and Woodstock, and Russell Pond was stocked. Check the stocking page (http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm) for sites stocked over the course of the season.
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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GO FOR BLUEFISH, AND CATCH SOME EXCITEMENT! By Becky Heuss, Biological Technician
Some of my fondest memories are of the Atlantic coast and bluefish during the summertime. Anglers line the rocky shoreline, shouting, "The blues are running!" Schools of bluefish chase baitfish like Atlantic menhaden or "pogies" into the shallows, and the water erupts with excitement. Each cast brings about another struggle between man and fish. I remember this scene well, but what sticks out in my mind the most is the smell, days afterward, when "pogies" still baked in the sun, having beached themselves during the feeding frenzy. I have not experienced a bluefish "run" since my youth, but I am still able to recapture the excitement each summer aboard the party boats in New Hampshire. Toward the middle of July, we feel the anticipation of another bluefish season. Well, guess what? They're here! Bluefish, like stripers, will follow baitfish up into the coastal rivers, so they may be caught anywhere from off of the Hampton coast to up in the river by Dover Point, and even in Great Bay at times. Many qualities make bluefish a popular saltwater target. They are a voracious predator and the excitement of a feeding frenzy is hard to match. They are a schooling fish, so where there is one, there are likely to be many more. Blues also put up a good fight -- when you reel them in, watch out for their sharp teeth! Bluefish have long gotten a bad rap by picky eaters, because they really are tastiest when fresh. After you catch them, eat them within 24 hours; they are an oily fish and can taste "fishy" if left for too long. Try marinating them in milk -- I've been told this is a good way to draw out the oils. There are some that insist the best way to eat a blue is grilled fresh with lemon juice, skin side down to let the oil drip off. They are also good poached, broiled or smoked.
Want to catch some of the excitement but don't have a boat? There are many locations along New Hampshire's coast that are prime real-estate for bluefishing. Check out the new "Take Me Fishing! Seashore Fishing Guide" at http://www.wildnh.com/marine/marine_PDFs/seacoast_TMF_guide.pdf for some great fishing spots where you can catch bluefish, stripers and other saltwater fish from shore. If you are looking for a day on the water or want some help for your first time bluefishing, join one of the many party boat companies along New Hampshire's coast. They will supply you with bait and bring you right to the blues. (Party boat info: http://www.maineharbors.com/nh/nhlnk.htm and http://www.portsmouthnh.com/port/boats.cfm.)
There is no better way to shake off those rainy day blues than a day out fishing. Get out and make some lasting memories with your kids this summer.
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For more about fishing the New Hampshire coast, don't miss the July-August N.H. Wildlife Journal magazine -- Fish and Game's annual coastal issue -- with articles on striped bass, harvesting Great Bay, and more. Read sample articles and subscribe at http://www.wildnh.com/Wildlife_Journal/WJ_mag.htm.
And while you're on the shore, don't miss our Great Bay programs for children and families at the Discovery Center on Depot Road in Greenland/Stratham - http://www.wildnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/GB_Summer_Programs_062609.html.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- July 9, 2009
This week, fisheries biologist Don Miller offers his thoughts on the season in the Lakes Region, and what all this rain means for the fisheries (and the anglers).
FISH STOCKING: A couple dozen Coos County sites were stocked last week. Check the stocking page (http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm) for a list of sites stocked - this is probably the last report of the season.
DEADLINE TOMORROW FOR TEEN ENVIRO CAMP: NH Natural Leaders Program, an environmental leadership program that includes a two-week residential camp starting July 19, is now just $500 (including room and board) for New Hampshire resident youths ages 13-17. Info and application: http://www.wildnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/NH_Nat_Leaders_062409.html
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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BIG RAIN, BIG FISHING ON BIG LAKES B
y Don Miller, fisheries biologist, Region 2/New Hampton
When will the rains end? The Lakes Region received over 8 inches of rain in June, more than twice the normal amount for the month. As most of you know, July has continued this wet pattern. Let's take a look at the good and bad of high water levels. The good news is, a copious amount of food is being washed into our lakes and streams, and as far as I can tell from my trips on Lake Winnisquam, lake trout and rainbows are on a feeding spree. A local angler fishing Winnisquam recently landed a beautiful 14-pound lake trout, while Nubanusit just recently yielded a 16-pound laker. I've had a great time with lakers on Winnisquam trolling flies and lures on 4 - 6 colors of lead core line. A few rainbow trout are mixed in the catch as well. Reports from area lakes reveal that the thermocline has set-up around 30 feet deep. Although early morning fishing (5 AM) might encounter fish a lot closer to the surface, you will generally want to run your lines at or below 30 feet deep for more consistent action. Bass fishing enthusiasts report that smallmouth activity is concentrated along drop-offs, generally in water depths greater than 20 feet. Anglers may find some surface activity in the early morning and again at dusk along shorelines near rock and tree cover. One angler in Lake Winnisquam reported catching a lake trout while working the drop-offs and a nice rainbow trout followed his lure on another occasion. In other words, be prepared, you never know what will appear from the depths! High waters are a blessing for the movement of fish (whether they like it or not!). "Dropdown fisheries" is a term for periodic fisheries that are timed to high water releases. These fisheries exist throughout the Lakes Region. Lochmere Dam (the dam at the lower end of Lake Winnisquam) has been a hot area for fishing nearly all season -- April anglers were treated to some especially fine landlocked salmon fishing. Even now, although landlocks are seldom caught, some fine fishing exists for rainbow trout -- and occasionally brown trout, which are stocked in the lower Winnipesaukee River and also travel upstream to this dam site. Silver Lake (which begins below Lochmere Dam) offers some great small and largemouth bass fishing, with the smallies working the current flows at the outflow of the dam. Lakeport Dam, the water retention dam for Lake Winnipesaukee, offers some good fishing in the tailwater section below the dam and out into Lake Opechee. Opechee is stocked with rainbow trout and dropdown trout here are numerous from Winnipesaukee. When rivers run high, trout naturally move downstream; look for deeper pools that may provide relief and protection from fast water. If and when the rivers begin to diminish, fishing will be fast and furious, as the amount of fishable water increases exponentially. Check out the USGS website at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nh/nwis/rt, where you can get water level, flow, and temperature information for dozens of river and stream sites throughout the state. Remote pond trout stocking was accomplished flawlessly by Fisheries staff and an excellent helicopter pilot during the only decent day we had in mid-June! This year, pontoons were added to the helicopter, allowing for the easier dispersal of fingerling brook trout (and taking water samples for pH). The heavy rainfall made conditions in these ponds as good as I have ever seen. For those anglers itching to catch some "back-country" brookies, this year is shaping up to be one of the best. Yes, some streams and rivers are unfishably high and fast at the moment -- but hope springs eternal. The weather always changes, and there are always fishing opportunities in NH, no matter the weather!
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- July 2, 2009
This week, fisheries biologist Jason Carrier goes wacky for jerk baits.
Happy Independence Day, everybody! Have a wonderful weekend.
FISH STOCKING: As of this week, fish stocking is complete for the season. For the final list of sites stocked, visit: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm.
GOT TEENS? DEADLINE 7/10! Thanks to generous benefactors, the cost of the NH Natural Leaders Program, an environmental leadership program that includes a two-week residential camp this summer, is now just $500 (including room and board) for New Hampshire resident youth between the ages of 13-17. The summer camp, based out of Kimball Union Academy in Meriden, N.H., runs July 19 - August 1, 2009. Info and application: http://www.wildnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/NH_Nat_Leaders_062409.html Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.! Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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SUMMERTIME SOFT PLASTIC JERKS FOR BASS
By Jason Carrier, Fisheries Biologist, Region 4/Keene
There are so many different types of soft jerkbaits on the market today that it can be quite time-consuming just picking out what style, color, or size to purchase at a tackle shop. Soft jerkbaits are probably one of the most popular baits used among bass fisherman today. You would be surprised to peek into a bass angler's boat and not see at least one rod rigged with some sort of soft plastic jerkbait. The two basic styles of soft jerkbaits are the minnow style and the worm style, with many different variations in sizes and shapes. Whatever choice you make, there are multiple ways to fish that jerkbait. Worm-style jerkbaits rigged "wacky" have been the craze the last few years. This is a plastic worm, usually four to six inches long, hooked right in the middle. This is typically fished weightless; the worm falls horizontally in the water column, and is very effective on fish that are not very active, because of its slow-falling nature. This can be fished around shoreline structure, weed beds, and rocky areas. Wacky rigging is not snag-proof, because the hook point is exposed. Minnow and worm-style jerkbaits that float, sink, or have neutral buoyancy can be very effective when rigged in these four ways: Carolina, Texas, drop shot, or straight rig (no weight). I don't think I can adequately describe how to set up these rigs here, so you'll want to search the web for examples and diagrams of those you're not familiar with. "Carolina" rigging a worm or minnow bait can be very effective during the summer months; this is usually fished in deeper water near or adjacent to weed edges or main water structures like points or humps, and is slowly dragged or bounced on the bottom. Using a floating worm or minnow will raise your presentation off the bottom, giving it a different look. "Texas" rigging a jerk bait is very effective when fished in and around heavy cover. The hook point is not exposed, so the bait is practically snag proof. "Drop shot" rigs can be used shallow or deep, and are usually used with a downsized worm or minnow jerkbait, three to four inches in length. This presentation is typically, but not always, used in open water on flats or around main lake structure. Using a "straight rig" is the easiest and most snag-resistant way to rig a soft plastic worm or minnow. This rig allows the angler to really change up the cadence of the bait to let the fish know what they really want. Two of my most recent fishing trips produced some nice largemouths in and around vegetation. The mornings were calm and I just had to try top-water, but the vegetation was so thick that I needed something that wouldn't get snagged. I went with a floating minnow jerkbait, straight rigged. I just twitched it along the surface of the vegetation, making it look like a struggling minnow. I got many hits on it and managed to boat a fair number of bass once I got the timing of the strike and the hook set down. Once the bass would hit it I had to be patient and wait 2-3 seconds before setting the hook. Get out on the water this summer and experiment with these different types of rigs for your soft plastic jerkbaits. Try different jerkbait styles, sizes, and colors and find out what works best for you. Good luck!
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P.S. to anglers fishing Lake Winnipesaukee: watch for tagged largemouth and smallmouth bass; they're tagged as part of a NH Fish and Game Warmwater Fisheries Management Program study. For info or to report a tagged bass: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fisheries_management/Bass_Movement_Study.html.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- June 18, 2009
In today's report, fisheries biologist Andy Schafermeyer shares some secrets from a banner bass day, fishing Moore Reservoir in Littleton with pro angler Terry Towle. Happy Father's Day! Give your dad or grandfather a memorable Father's Day this year - take him fishing! We don't need to tell YOU that fishing is a great way to slow down and celebrate your family. Have a wonderful weekend. FISH STOCKING: Fish stocking is winding down for the season, with stocking in the southern tier almost complete for the year. Stocking in northern NH is likely to continue for a few more weeks, and aerial stocking took place this week. For a list of sites stocked last week, visit: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.! Don't forget the camera: The Kids Fishing Photo Contest is underway, co-sponsored by Fish and Game and Kidz Rule USA magazine. Info: http://fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/kids_photo_contest_2009.html. Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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BASS FISHING LIKE A PRO By Andrew Schafermeyer, Fisheries Biologist, Region 1/Lancaster
I've often written that the most appealing part of freshwater fishing is that no one has it figured out completely. Success is measured one trip at a time. Effective methods one day may be worthless the next and both angler and fish have the same chance at outsmarting one another. In an effort to turn the tables as much in my favor as possible, I went fishing with a guy who never seems to be outsmarted and comes as close as I've seen to mastering the sport. Terry Towle of Woodsville has been fishing the bass tournament scene for better than 10 years and is one of the most accomplished and dedicated guys I've met. As a member of the Central Vermont Bassmasters club, he spends most of his summers wrapping up titles all over New England. We decided to fish Moore Reservoir in Littleton because of its size, varying conditions and history of producing trophy large and smallmouth bass. When I learned that Terry once had a string of 19 consecutive tournament wins on Moore, I deemed him more than qualified a guide. I met him at 9:00 a.m. on a clear, sunny day and we quickly loaded our gear into his 20-foot Triton. After observing water temperatures in the low to mid-sixties, our plan of attack was to assume that we were fishing over post-spawn bass who may be staging on elevated substrate next to deep water. With the help of his depth-finder and a GPS system that looked cooler than my television set, we quickly found a 20-foot bump surrounded by 60-foot depths and decided to give it a try. Terry selected one of his 12 pre-rigged rods -- this one with a drop-shot setup that consisted of a 3/16-oz. egg sinker, 22" of 8 lb. line leading to a 1/0 octopus hook baited with a 4-inch green Chomper worm. In those depths, the retrieve almost resembled a vertical jigging method, but Terry worked it with the skill and anticipation of a seasoned angler. It was this very method that he used to win the 2007 Ironman Open on Lake Champlain with a six-fish creel of 32 pounds. I watched Terry catch a few smallmouth this way before he declared, "We can do better" -- and we were off to another spot. The 200-horsepower Mercury made the search process very efficient. Unlike some professional anglers, Terry never showed a sense of impatience or anxiety when catch rates slowed down. He also never showed a competitive side that can keep anglers from having fun. He enjoyed every catch and seemed just as rewarded when I caught a fish. After fishing another spot of quickly elevated depth, we started fishing large boulders in 15 to 20 feet of water. Things got very exciting as we both started landing fish and I watched Terry throw so many different baits and approaches that I could've gotten dizzy if I wasn't so amazed. He caught fish on 3" dark-colored tube baits, skillfully reading the bottom from the feel of his 8-pound line and seven-foot light-action rod. I saw him accurately pitch jigs and boomerang a 3/8-oz. spinnerbait under overhanging vegetation. I asked about color preferences and was somewhat surprised to learn that he never over-thinks the matter. "I spend most of the time trying to find the fish and then worry about colors." Once we found fish, Terry had little trouble getting them to bite. Fish were routinely outsmarted by a smoke-colored RattleTrap, 4" Senkos, and spider jigs. Most of his soft plastic baits were watermelon or green pumpkin in color and he was clearly trying to imitate the crayfish that he knows are an important bass forage in Moore Reservoir. Despite our success, we changed approaches routinely. Applying different methods kept things exciting and fun. At 11:30, we entered a shallow cove where the water temperature had warmed to 67 and we cast around woody material like downed trees and submerged stumps. We also cast over large shallow shelves where Terry threw lipless crankbaits, explaining that they are his favorite "fish locator" as they allow you to cover a lot of water. One of the most exciting approaches came when Terry decided to trophy hunt by throwing a 5-inch swimbait rigged on a 3/0, weighted worm hook. His quick retrieve kept the bait swimming in a sub-surface action that resembled a buzz-bait and we both got the feeling that this was the bait that would bring the monsters into the boat. After a few short strikes, we watched as an explosive strike cut his line in the fashion that made us both realize he'd lost a big northern pike. Our day on the lake ended at about 3:00 and we'd landed between 20 and 30 bass. I thanked Terry for an awesome education and made it clear that I wouldn't write specifically about his methods, as most tournament anglers are understandably protective of their secrets. He dismissed any of that attitude and told me to share anything with my readers, which reminded me again of his genuine love for fishing. It was a great day and I look forward to fishing with him again.
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P.S. to anglers fishing Lake Winnipesaukee: watch for tagged largemouth and smallmouth bass; they're tagged as part of a NH Fish and Game Warmwater Fisheries Management Program study. For info or to report a tagged bass: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fisheries_management/Bass_Movement_Study.html.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
GIVE DAD A TASTE OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE ON FATHER'S DAY -- TAKE HIM FISHING!
CONCORD, N.H. -- Want to give your dad or grandfather a memorable Father's Day this year? Take him fishing! There's nothing like an outdoor adventure together to remind you what families are all about. Most dads can use a break from the fast-paced world. Fishing gives you that chance -- to slow down, enjoy the natural beauty around you, match wits with trout or bass, and spend time with people you care about. Leave the work-a-day world behind and cast that line!
So give him what he really wants for Father's Day (June 21 this year). Some ideas:
* Go fishing with your father or grandfather; * Scheduling a guided fishing trip; or * Buy him a fishing license he can use all year.
You can even send or e-mail your dad a special coupon from the Anglers' Legacy website that he can use anytime to take you up on your fishing invitation; download it at http://tinyurl.com/fathersday09. (While there, become an Anglers' Legacy Ambassador -- take the pledge to take at least one new person fishing each year and go to http://tinyurl.com/NHfishpledge.)
Maybe it's been a while since you've been fishing. Not to worry - all you need is some basic gear and bait. Get ideas on places to fish in different parts of New Hampshire - either in freshwater or on the coast - on the New Hampshire e Fish and Game Department's website, http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm. You'll find directions, tackle tips and more.
Sometimes a guided fishing trip can be the best option for a family group. A list of licensed New Hampshire fishing guides can be found on the Fish and Game website at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing_guides.htm or call the local chamber of commerce. Guided trips allow anglers to concentrate on having fun together.
The gift of a fishing license works well, especially if you can't be there for a Father's Day fishing trip. It recognizes his love of the outdoors, and says you want to spend time with him. Permanent licenses are issued free to residents of New Hampshire who are 68 years of age or older, provided that they have been a New Hampshire resident for at least two years. Go to http://www.fishnh.com to find a local license agent or purchase your fishing license online. A Father's Day fishing trip can be a shared adventure and an expression of admiration and caring. Few things say it better. Recall the fun times you've had fishing with a father or grandfather, and make the day even more rewarding by creating a new adventure together. Make this a truly special Father's Day - fish New Hampshire and relax! The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department works to conserve, manage and protect the state's fish and wildlife and their habitats. Visit http://www.fishnh.com.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- June 12, 2009
Today's report comes from Kyle Glencross, biological aide for Fish and Game, offering tips for catching trout on late spring evenings and chasing stripers on the coast.
FISH STOCKING STILL GOING STRONG: For a list of sites stocked last week, visit: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.! Don't forget the camera: The Kids Fishing Photo Contest is underway, co-sponsored by Fish and Game and Kidz Rule USA magazine. Info: http://fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/kids_photo_contest_2009.html. Also -- Signups are on for the fall (Sept. 11-13) Becoming an Outdoors-Woman workshop. Lots of fishing and other wild workshops to choose from: http://www.fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/BOW_fall_reg_open_060809.html Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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THE TROUT AND STRIPERS OF JUNE By Kyle Glencross, biological aide, NH Fish and Game
You've got to love the month of June in New Hampshire, great fishing all across the state, from trout streams to stripers in the surf! This time of year allows many crazed anglers (such as myself) to sneak away in the evenings and get a couple of hours of fishing in during the week. The longer days and warming temperatures often make the last few hours of daylight the most productive. June is a great time to try some of New Hampshire's trout ponds. Try getting to your favorite pond a few hours before dark and casting or trolling small streamer fly patterns such as Brown Owls, Black Nosed Dace, 88's, and the infamous Hornberg. As darkness approaches and trout start rising, I normally switch to smaller dry fly patterns, and also a wet fly pattern designed by Ellis Hatch (former Fish and Game Commissioner) called the Hatching Pupa -- it's a killer on tough-to-fool trout! Anglers should keep their eyes open towards the end of the month for the start of the "hex" hatch. These giant mayflies bring not only some of the best dry fly fishing of the year, but also account for many anglers' largest trout and smallmouth bass of the season. They are mostly limited to cool water lakes and ponds, and often only appear the last twenty minutes before darkness sets in. Stay on the lookout! The smaller trout streams and rivers in southern part of the state are best also just fished in the early morning hours and late evenings because of climbing water temperatures. I can't talk the start of summer and leave out the striped bass on New Hampshire's seacoast. June is the real start of striper season. If you have never taken advantage of this great resource, you are missing out! The tidal creeks are often some of my favorite spots to hit; remember to fish these creeks on the first two hours of the outgoing tide and the last two hours of the incoming tide. Use soft plastics such as the Slug-Go in the Alewife or Arkansas Shiner. Fly patterns like the Half n Half, Cape and Island Minnow, and Mushmouths are top producers. Remember to plan your tides right for stripers during the morning and afternoons, switch your gear and beat it to your favorite trout pond for a great end to your day. See you on the water!
P.S. Are you just getting started fishing, or want to check out some new Concord-area locations? My fellow Fish and Gamer, Mark Beauchesne, appears in "Go Fish," a guide for fishing novices, in this morning's Concord Monitor. Check it out at http://tinyurl.com/fishconcord0609.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- May 21, 2009
In today's report, the fish are biting in the Lakes Region! Fisheries biologist Don Miller brings an update from the big lakes, rivers and ponds. Enjoy the long weekend, everyone!
STOCKING TRUCKS ARE ROLLING... 170+ sites were stocked with fish last week! Visit: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Also, all 760 brood stock Atlantic salmon slated for spring release have been stocked into the Merrimack and Pemigewassett rivers.
LAKE SUNAPEE - WILD GOOSE ACCESS SITE: The public comment period regarding the Wild Goose wetland permit application to the N.H. Department of Environmental Services Wetlands Bureau has been extended to June 26, 2009. For information about the proposed Wild Goose Boating Access Site, visit http://www.fishnh.com/access/wildgoose.
FREE FISHING DAY is just a week away - Saturday, June 6. Tell your friends! Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
All NH fishing page: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm.
If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.fishnh.com/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm. Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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COOL RIVERS - HOT FISHING IN THE LAKES REGION By Don Miller, Large Lakes Fisheries Biologist, Region 2/New Hampton
LARGE LAKES
We've enjoyed a rather cool spring in the Lakes Region, and this has resulted in cool water temps in our big lakes; the temperature at Winnipesaukee (main lake and the Broads) has been around 50 - 55 degrees F this week. The recent Winni Derby was a success, with a 4.12-lb. landlocked salmon taking the major prize and an 8.5-lb. laker taking the "togue" category. The lake trout brought in by anglers were gorgeous fish, as fat and healthy as I've ever seen. Lots of two-year-old salmon were reported, and this bodes well for the future salmon fishery in the "Big Lake." Lake trout are still in shallow water, reports from Winnisquam have bass fishermen catching lakers in water 20 feet deep. Generally, look for lakers in water around 40-60 feet deep. Trolled bait (golden shiners) fished slowly along the bottom and edges of drop-offs is the best method. Sutton 44 and 61 spoons are always a top choice, and don't forget the old-standby, Flashking wobbler in gold/fluorescent for lake trout also. The landlocked salmon fishing has tailed off a bit, but the early morning anglers will still have luck trolling 3-5 colors of lead-core line (20-25 feet deep). Periodically, salmon seem to switch off this time of year, usually concurrent with the major phantom midge hatches on the lakes. At this time of year it is essential to be on the water in the pre-dawn hours, and fish until 9 o'clock or so, in order to find the salmon -- occasionally a mid-late morning/early afternoon second bite occurs, depending on weather conditions. Rainbow trout fishing has been hot in Winnipesaukee and Squam lakes. We've caught them on a variety of small streamers (size 6), hardware and live shiners. I like to use a sinking-tip fly line, 30 foot leader (6-lb. test), and troll the shorelines out to a depth of 30 - 40 feet. Work the fly rod with intermittent pulls, and troll at various speeds, 1.5-3 mph., in a curve or zigzag pattern.
RIVERS
The Pemigewasset River in Bristol (off the Coolidge Woods Road) offers some incredible trout fishing (rainbows and brookies). This area is also a favored spot for Atlantic salmon broodstock fishing. The water flow in this river is excellent now, and the pools and riffles offer a great variety of habitats for fly, bait or spin fishing. Also try the bigger water below Eastman Falls Dam in Franklin (catch and release area). Colorful streamers work well on these salmon. Don't forget to pick up your brood stock Atlantic salmon permit and tags for this wonderful fishery. Area brooks have been stocked and the dry spell this spring has left water levels low, so don't procrastinate, get out and treat yourself to some tasty squaretails!
PONDS
Brook trout ponds in the area are producing limit catches of rainbows and brookies. Saltmarsh Pond/Gilford, Spectacle Pond/Groton and Perch Pond/Campton are great trout ponds. Hatches of caddis are in full swing on ponds throughout the area. Upper Hall Pond (Sandwich), White Pond (Ossipee), and Sky Pond (New Hampton), are fly-fishing only ponds where the angler can be treated to some fantastic dry-fly action now.
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N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- May 14, 2009
In today's report, seasonal fisheries technician Shane Eaton explains what he and the other fisheries folks are up to this summer in the Great North Woods.
STOCKING TRUCKS ARE ROLLING... 150+ sites were stocked with fish last week! Visit: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
BROOD STOCK SALMON - The time is now! All 760 brood stock Atlantic salmon slated for spring release have been stocked into the Merrimack and Pemigewassett rivers, and successful anglers are already reporting successful brood stock salmon fishing on both rivers. Info: http://www.wildnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/brood_stock_salmon_051109.html
BIG BROOK BOG in Pittsburg will not be fishable (and will not be stocked) this season - an issue with the dam has necessitated a water drawdown. Info: http://www.fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/Big_Brook_Bog_drawdown.html Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H.! All NH fishing page: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm.
If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.fishnh.com/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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MY BROOK TROUT SUMMER
By Shane Eaton, seasonal fisheries technician, Region 1/Lancaster
After a long cold winter, the ice has finally left the lakes and ponds of northern New Hampshire, the summer fishing season has begun and the Fish and Game seasonal interns have started work. These seasonal positions are hard work, fun, and key to a successful summer season for Fish and Game, and they give much-needed experience to college students and aspiring fisheries biologists. My name is Shane Eaton, and I'm a summer intern working with fisheries biologist Dianne Timmins out of Fish and Game's Region 1 office in Lancaster. My fellow interns and I will be collecting data for the Eastern Brook Trout Joint Venture (EBTJV). The EBTJV project officially starts in mid-May, but since mid-April, I've been assisting with several fisheries projects in the Great North Woods: spawning pike netting in Partridge Lake in Littleton and Jericho Lake in Berlin; smelt collection in Cedar Pond in Milan and Christine Lake in Stark; and the distribution of hundreds of thousands of Atlantic salmon into the streams of northern New Hampshire. There are any number of different projects and chores that will keep me and the other interns very busy all summer long. I'm returning to EBTJV for a second year, after being part of the crew that piloted the project last summer. The project started a few years back, in a meeting among 17 states and several independent agencies concerned over declining brook trout populations. In this meeting, participants discussed a lack of critical habitat data for this species, and New Hampshire was no exception, with many areas with no data on brook trout. Through grants and Federal Aid, existing data on brook trout in NH has been compiled and areas needing data have been identified. We're now collecting new data in three main areas: human interactions and manipulation of the habitat; natural habitat (substrate, cover, and structure of the stream); and the presence and health of the native brook trout population. Data collection is rigorous work for even the most fit interns. Many habitat sites to be studied are remote and getting there requires hiking long distances with big, heavy, and clumsy gear. After hiking out to a site, the fun begins with electro-fishing a small section of the stream. Fish in the section are collected, sampled and recorded, and a visual habitat assessment and physical characteristics of the section are recorded. Later, this data will be entered and analyzed back at the office on rainy days. With data from states up and down the east coast, a draft conservation plan is slowly coming together to deal with the current threats to the brook trout population. In addition to this, corrective measures will be suggested on a watershed-by-watershed basis. If you see the crews out there this summer, give us a wave and know that this study will ensure that anglers like you and me will be catching fat and healthy brook trout well into the future.
(Shane Eaton of Lunenburg, Vt. graduated from Unity College in 2007 with a bachelors degree in Wildlife Biology. Since graduation, Shane has been traveling and working around the country as a seasonal biologist -- starting in southern California, then making his way to the Bering Sea as a fisheries observer (an onboard biologist) on fishing vessels in the winter, and returning to New Hampshire Fish and Game in the summer.)
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News from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department
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NH Weekly Fishing Report – September 16, 2011
Good morning, fishing fans – we’ve got 3 regional reports today. This is probably the last fishing report for the spring/summer season, so ... thanks for reading, have a wonderful autumn, and we’ll check in with you during ice-fishing time! For more NH fish and fishing info all year long, follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame. (You don't need to be a Facebook user to see our stuff!)
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><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
The recent rains in the lakes region have not affected the fishing for salmonid species at all. A recent trip on Lake Winnisquam produced some fantastic lake trout fishing! Again, the pattern of close trolling to shoreline, in water less than 50 feet deep, produced multiple catches of nice lake trout. Only a handful of trout were sublegal (under 18 inches), while most were 20 inches or better. The downrigger proved to be very important in regulating the depth (very quickly), as the bottom near shore consists of humps that rise up 20 feet in some cases. Baitfish pods were evident along the shore, again I think most were young-of-the-year white perch, with some smelt schools also evident. Lure size is critical, with the small (2-inch) Mooselook wobblers producing the majority of fish. We didn’t try flies, but I bet a small white streamer would also do the trick. We fished near numerous loons, with one brave soul approaching the boat within 15 feet! I always keep a lookout for waterfowl, such as mergansers, cormorants and loons, they reveal where the baitfish are congregating.
I’ll be fishing a bit more in the weeks to come, some trips to Winnipesaukee to try for salmon, and definitely a couple trips on Winnisquam, looking for that big laker!
The river flows south of the White Mountains are great now, and brook trout will be spawning soon in these areas. It’s a great time to get out and enjoy these days of early fall, for they will not last very long. - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
We have been busy evaluating Atlantic salmon parr survival and growth throughout the Merrimack and Connecticut watersheds. Perhaps the biggest obstacle this year is trying to plan around the weather and high flows. High flows with increased turbidity can make electrofishing very difficult to see fish when they are temporarily immobilized. As the field season winds down, we still hope to continue looking for wild brook trout populations in the southeastern part of the state, particularly within the Lamprey River watershed, before we shift gears and focus on the fall netting season in the lakes region.
Our need to collect more information on the round whitefish, a fish species of concern, took us out of southern New Hampshire this week. Recent records indicate the species may only be present in Newfound Lake and upper reaches of the Connecticut River. While we have been able to find an effective way to sample the species on Newfound Lake, the population in the Connecticut River presented more challenges. Through the use of boat electrofishing, we were able to capture close to 30 juveniles and adults within the stretch of river between Colebrook and West Stewartstown. As a bonus, we were also able to capture a 22-inch-long brown trout adorned in a great example of spawning colors. In the future, we hope to radio tag these whitefish to determine what seasonal habitats they prefer as well as the areas they tend to avoid. This information will be invaluable to the future sustainability of the species. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
This past weekend I decided to poke around Rye Harbor using a snorkel, just to see what I could see. I entered the water at slack high tide over by the boat ramp at the marina and made my way to the jetty at the state park. The visibility was good, down to about 15 feet. There were no winter flounder to be seen; these most likely abandoned the harbor a while ago due to the warmer water temps in the shallows. To my surprise, I did see a school of stripers! About halfway through my journey, I observed about 15 to 20 of them - mostly schoolies, but there were a couple that appeared to be of legal size. As I continued on, they were following me! I noticed a few anglers on the jetty and decided to take advantage of the fishes’ behavior, bringing them right to the anglers; unfortunately as we neared the jetty the stripers wised up and moved into deeper waters. Strangely, I did not see any baitfish around; the stripers must have been attracted into the harbor by the commercial boats.
Striper fishing has picked up in recent days. Anglers are reporting catching them in the rivers, bay, and ocean side. Most of these fish are being caught with live mackerel, which are also still available just outside the river. A growing number of people are fly fishing for stripers; it is becoming increasingly popular to fly fish off of bridges, just dropping the fly into the water, no casting involved.
Groundfishing is still decent, boats coming in from Jeffreys Ledge report good catches of pollock and haddock. A few of my colleagues also had luck out at Old and New Scantum at the beginning of September. - Robert Eckert, Marine Biologist FEDERAL AID IN WILDLIFE AND SPORT FISH AND RESTORATION: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program. Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more: http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2011 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
NH Weekly Fishing Report – September 9, 2011
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><> North Country
As I stood in the Ammonoosuc River yesterday, I watched leaves float by and stick to the rocks. I can't honestly tell whether they had fallen because it is mid-September or because the rain and wind have been knocking them down. Northern New Hampshire has been a dynamic place concerning the weather of the last few weeks and it has been hard to get any fishing in. Water levels are constantly changing and the heavy rain is causing temperatures to fluctuate wildly. I look forward to fishing some remote trout ponds over the next few weeks, and I'm not sure what to expect. Trio Ponds and Whitcomb Pond in the Nash Stream headwaters can both be awesome places to spend a September afternoon. I also hope to out-smart some brown trout in Connecticut River pool habitats around Stratford and Columbia. I will also make an effort to hit a few of our local bass ponds before the end of the month. I have had some great fall days on Forest Lake in Whitefield. I will approach my tackle choice as an effort to explore as much of the water column as I need to find fish. Plastic baits fished as a drop shot or Texas-rigged will get me to the deep water. A suspending jerk bait or slow-moving crank bait will cover water from 10 to 20 feet deep. I will also throw spinner baits and floating stick baits in shallower water. As mentioned, the goal is to cover varying depths. With all of these approaches, it makes me feel less guilty when I spend the winter buying fishing gear. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
We continue to experience high lake levels in the lakes region. Both Winnipesaukee and Winnisquam are above full-pool levels. The salmon bite continues to be excellent in Winnipesaukee, with the strong two-year-old age class of salmon predominant in the catch. The water temperature has stabilized at 70 degrees, so the thermocline is still down a good 35 feet at least. This is not to say that you won’t find the occasional rainbow feeding near the surface in the early morning hours. Big Squam is slow, with an occasional trophy salmon caught after several hours of fishing, but isn’t that the way a trophy fishery operates? In New Hampshire we are blessed with 15 landlocked salmon lakes to chase these beauties, and each lake brings a different fishery and attitude to the table for our anglers. Ossipee Lake is often overlooked, but we have had reports of some decent two-year olds and an occasional big brown trout (dropdown from the Bearcamp River) being caught. A little further north is Conway Lake, a real North Country gem, with tea-stained water and some nice salmon lurking in this moderately deep (50 feet) lake. Winnisquam continues to produce some nice lake trout for me and my fishing companions. The same pattern holds true - small Mooselook wobblers are just the ticket as these trout are feeding heavily on young-of-the-year white perch, along the eastern shoreline in 40-50 feet of water. Definitely try some close shoreline trolling in the vicinity of the streams and brooks, which are flowing heavily into our lakes now. A recent trip up north has revealed dropping stream water levels to the point where angling is more feasible now. Try the deeper pools, where many fish may have taken refuge during our recent heavy rain events. The Pemigewasset River is good now, water clarity has improved greatly, and conditions are excellent, especially in the Bristol/New Hampton areas. Get out and fish now, the season closes for salmon on September 30! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
In the next several weeks, we will be conducting our annual young-of-the-year (YOY) bass surveys. These electrofishing boat surveys target largemouth and smallmouth bass that were hatched this spring. Surveys are conducted on Spofford Lake, Big Squam Lake, Lake Winnipesaukee, Forest Lake (Whitefield), and two sections of the Connecticut River (Claremont and Hinsdale). The same areas of each waterbody are sampled each year, allowing us to determine year-class strength as well as fish size, species composition, and to track how these factors change from year to year within a waterbody and also how they change within a year from north to south within the state. These samples are important in that documenting a poor (or good) year-class will help us to predict and/or explain good or poor fishing success in the future. For example, a poor year-class of smallmouth bass in Spofford Lake in 2011 would help explain angler dissatisfaction with the fishery in seven to eight years as that year-class reach a size that most anglers wish to catch. Additionally, over-winter survival of YOY bass during their first winter has been shown to be positively related to their length in fall; examining YOY bass size also helps allow us to predict future success of a particular year-class. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Sorry folks, no report this week. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
Stripers are few and far between these days. While you wait for their fall migration to begin, you will have more luck fishing the coast from a boat. The migration will begin as the water cools and baitfish leave our estuaries and harbors; this is aided by all the rain we are experiencing. The river herring that ascended our coastal rivers this spring, and brought stripers up with them, deposited their eggs in freshwater; these have by now developed into three to four inch juveniles. The juvenile river herring are in the midst of their journey out of their nursery grounds and this rain should trigger more movement. Stripers are on the lookout for schools of these and other baitfish, gorging themselves before the winter ahead. A good way to simulate these schools and attract the attention of the scattered striper is an umbrella rig. Use one of these rigs while trolling the coast. These can be purchased pre-rigged or unrigged for those that have a favorite lure, be sure to use the same color lure on a single umbrella as it is simulating a school of fish. If you want to vary the color you may use two umbrella rigs, one on each side of the boat. Try to position these so they are just above the depth of the stripers you are trying to catch. When using this setup, it is easy to tangle the lines so put it in the water with ease and let your line out slowly.
Anglers are still catching mackerel and picking away at bluefish, and nice-sized pollock are being caught offshore. Softshell clam season began September 6 (everywhere except Hampton/Seabrook Estuary); the season is Saturdays only and is subject to closing due to bacteria levels or red tide. Check http://www.wildnh.com/Fishing/clam_flat_status.htm or call 1-800-43-CLAMS for the current open/closed status of NH shellfish areas. Shellfishing maps and other great resources can be found at http://www.wildnh.com/marine/shellfishing.html. There is still time to get out and enjoy all of what our lovely coast has to offer! - Becky Heuss, Marine Biologist
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> FEDERAL AID IN WILDLIFE AND SPORT FISH AND RESTORATION: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program. Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more: http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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NH Weekly Fishing Report – August 11, 2011
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><> North Country
If landing a brook trout on a four-weight fly rod gets your blood pumping as much as landing a smallmouth on an ultra-light spinning rod, I have a challenge for you. Why not target one of New Hampshire's most aggressive predator fish that can grow over 20 pounds and 40+ inches long? I'm suggesting a battle with a northern pike. If an angler could create a sportfish from scratch, I can't imagine that the desired characteristics would be much different from that of the northern pike. Imagine a fish that eats anything. Insects, other fish, reptiles, amphibians, ducklings, mice, and any other organism that gets near the water is at risk. This makes your fishing approach as varied as you'd like it. To add intensity to the battle, downsize your gear! A medium-light action rod and six to eight-pound test line may allow you to really sneak up on these monsters. Whatever your terminal tackle may be, you must anticipate a toothy hook-up and prepare your leader accordingly. One of my most important rules for pike fishing is simple: speed things up. I retrieve spinner-baits at a speed twice that which I use on bass. I will retrieve a crank-bait in the same fashion. It is important to remember to be ready for a strike at any moment. When your lure is a few feet from the boat and you are looking for your next spot to cast, you must still be prepared for a surface-smashing strike. The best North Country opportunities for pike include Partridge Lake in Littleton, Jericho Lake in Berlin, Moore Reservoir, and Martin Meadow Pond in Lancaster. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
Smelt surveys continue on the big lakes, and so far, everything looks good. Young-of-the-year (YOY) smelt numbers looked great at Newfound Lake recently. Newfound, by the way, is rapidly becoming a wonderful rainbow trout fishery. Reports of some rainbows over 3 pounds continue to trickle in, with numerous rainbows from this year’s stocking showing up, nearly at the 15 inch minimum. We are waiting for this lake to show some nice salmon in the catch…perhaps by this September! Recent rains have kept lake levels up, and the Hexagenia mayfly hatch lingers on the big lakes, with numerous individuals appearing on our research vessel Forager during our night-time surveys. The rains are good news for stream anglers as well. Late last week, I ventured north to “stretch” the legs on a hike in the Sandwich Wilderness area. This area encompasses a broad reach of country, Mounts Passaconaway and Tripyramid to the north, and the Sandwich range to the south. There are numerous headwater brooks in this area; I fished one in the southern end of the range up to an elevation of 2000 feet! All you need is a good pair of boots, a fly rod (I use an old Eagle Claw Trailmaster 7 ½ foot), and a reliable companion, mine is a six year old yellow lab, “Miss Penny”, who must be restrained from the pools until I’ve had a chance to fish them! I find total relaxation up here in the mountains, working my way along the rocky banks to the next crystal clear pool. I use a rather large hopper imitation size 6, in order to keep the “little guys” off the hook! Every once in awhile, you will be treated to a monster brookie at 6 inches long! My meal for the night was two trout, one male and female. At this time of year up in the mountains, brookies are nearly ready to spawn, evidenced by the mature eggs in the 6 inch female. Don’t forget the camera, these trout display colors you thought were only found in an oil painting! I wasn’t that far away (in miles) from my trolling boat tied up on Lake Winnisquam, but I was literally in a different world up in these mountains. - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
During the month of August, I am always torn between bass fishing and fishing for lake trout. I love both types of fishing and I tend to second-guess myself a lot when deciding on what to fish for on a particular day. “Will the lakers be on today or are they going to be the unresponsive to my efforts?” “Will there be a good topwater bite for largemouths today?” This past weekend, I decided to not make a decision and just fish for both. I went to Nubanusit Lake (Hancock/Nelson) on Saturday with my friend Ed, who has never fished for lake trout before. We fished from 10 to 4 and ended up landing nine lakers by trolling and vertical jigging. He was impressed with the fight and how beautiful these fish are. Lake trout in NH are not stocked and we released all these naturally produced fish. Nubanusit, Spoonwood Lake (Nelson), and Silver Lake (Harrisville) all have lake trout and are great places to get your laker fix without having to travel to the Lakes Region. Anglers have been catching some decent rainbows and salmon at Nubanusit in the past weeks as well. On Sunday I fished by myself at a small bass pond near Winchester. The hot sticky weather in conjunction with being on the water lent itself to numerous swims and a half dozen largemouth. Nothing over two pounds, but still a nice way to spend the afternoon. Fish all came on 4” plastic worms used on either a shaky jig head or a drop shot rig. I didn’t find any fish on downed trees or rocks and the fish I caught were at random spots close to aquatic vegetation. Without any real pattern to go on besides casting to vegetation, I was happy to get as many fish as I did. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Amongst other recent surveys, we've spent some time in the Lamprey River watershed documenting the distribution of bridle shiners and wild brook trout. The bridle shiner is the only state listed threatened species. (Two other fish species are at an elevated level of concern; both the American brook lamprey and shortnose sturgeon are state endangered.) Bridle shiners are an indicator species of healthy and undisturbed warmwater rivers, lakes and ponds. These fish average only two inches in length and they compensate for relatively poor swimming ability by living, feeding, and breeding in dense aquatic vegetation in waters with minimal turbidity. Without densely vegetated habitats, the species can become easy fare for countless predator fish. They have a life expectancy that rarely exceeds two years, meaning if a catastrophic event occurred, the potential for losing the species can be high. Although bridle shiners may not be considered valuable to some anglers, the presence or absence of the species can be used as a gauge on our impacts to aquatic ecosystems and water quality. Despite a variety of different stream habitats within the Lamprey watershed, the distribution of wild brook trout appears to be restricted only to very small streams. It is likely the larger stream habitats may not offer suitable spawning habitats and reach undesirable water temperatures for the species. In some times of the year, it is likely wild brook trout may occupy these larger streams but during the summer months, the brook trout need to find thermal refuge in cooler tributaries. This emphasizes the need to have aquatic connectivity. Road/stream crossings (i.e. perched culverts) and dams are examples of barriers that would prevent this sensitive species from finding necessary habitats. More and more, we are learning the value of spring-fed streams, especially in the southeastern part of the state, and the need to protect these very small (sometimes only one or two feet wide) streams. To some extent and within reason, the existing impacts to the surrounding landscape of a brook trout stream can be offset by having a steady supply of ground water recharge from springs. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
The fishing is still good on the New Hampshire coast this week. I saw flounder and pollock caught from local jetties. From the open water private boats are still bringing stripers and plenty of mackerel back to the docks.
I also had the pleasure of speaking with several spear fishermen as they returned to land. Most of them were quite successful in getting a creel full of flounder in as little as an hour! If you are going to try spear fishing, remember that fish appear larger as seen underwater. Make sure you’re confident that your quarry is of legal size before you take aim. There is no catch and release in spear fishing.
Hope to see you out there! - Jessica Devoid, Marine Biological Aide
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FEDERAL AID IN WILDLIFE AND SPORT FISH AND RESTORATION: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program. Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more: http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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NH Weekly Fishing Report - July 28, 2011
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
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><> North Country
New Hampshire anglers have it pretty good. Our waterbodies are healthy and fish of all different types can be found throughout. We don’t have the opportunity to catch a 100-pound catfish like the Ozark Rivers of my youth, but the trade-off seems acceptable to me. This week, I was sampling some very small brooks in the Ammonoosuc River Watershed. To the casual observer, they would not seem like an opportunity to fish. They were literally 6 inches wide in spots, looked warm and were experiencing very slow flow rates. With a touch of my electro-fishing wand, however, brook trout boiled up out of every pool. They were also in undercut banks and woody material. When fishing small brooks and considering the growth rates of these fish, it becomes important to adjust your idea of what a “trophy fish” is. Brook trout 4 or 5 inches in size may be four years old, and should be considered the bullies on their block. These types of fisheries can present some real challenges to the angler. Most are enshrouded in overhanging vegetation that can make casting difficult. Getting your bait (fly, worm, or whatever) to the fish will require some creativity and patience. An angler in these situations may also have to employ some stealth - the fish spook very easily and once they flee, it will be hard to get them to bite. If everything falls into place, the fish that end up in your net will be among the most beautiful you’ve ever seen. Still months away from spawning season, small-water brookies will still have deep and vibrant coloration and make you glad you brought your camera. - Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
Recently I took the opportunity to check out the new Fish and Game access site on Purity Lake in Eaton. The site is located on the northern end of the lake, right on NH Route 153, about a half-mile north of King Pine Ski Area. The access will accommodate small, cartop boats, canoes, and kayaks and parking for about 10-12 vehicles. The access consists of a gradually sloping set of stairs constructed of gravel and pressure treated lumber. The design of the site uses modern erosion control technology. We launched a canoe and paddled and fished a little. Purity Lake is a gin-clear but productive body of water. Among the abundant submerged and floating aquatic vegetation we observed several bass, as well as sunfish, yellow perch, a pickerel or two, and schools of shiners. There is also a decent smelt population in the lake, as the deeper waters are cold and supersaturated with oxygen. Now that Fish and Game has secured a public access here, we are considering stocking some rainbow trout for anglers to enjoy in the near future. Stay tuned! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
During the last few weeks we have been unable to do much fishing due to our warmwater sampling surveys, which occur at night. We conduct our surveys with an electrofishing boat that sends an electric current into the water and stuns the fish momentarily while we net them and put them into a livewell in the boat unharmed. We start these surveys at dark and can go on until one or two o’clock in the morning, depending on the size of the waterbody and how many fish we collect. We started our season on French Pond in Henniker where we found an abundance of small bluegills, some golden shiners, yellow bullhead, and to our surprise, fathead minnows, which only occur in a few waterbodies around the state. We were also surprised to not see any pickerel or perch, which are common throughout most ponds and lakes around the state. We electrofished Harrisville Pond in Harrisville to get a community assessment prior to us deploying Christmas trees for habitat improvement this fall. The bass we sampled were found concentrated in a certain area of the pond where there was vegetation with rocks and nearshore drop-offs. Only one of our five runs produced numbers of largemouth and smallmouth bass. We also found common sunfish, golden shiners, and black crappie. Horseshoe Pond in Merrimack was our most recent outing and it was during the hottest, most humid night of the summer, last Thursday. This pond nearly has it all - bluegill, yellow perch, pickerel, common sunfish, common white suckers, bullhead, black crappie, eel, carp, and largemouth bass. We shocked up some carp that were from 15 to 30 pounds! The bass numbers were good, fish were healthy, and there was a good mix of age classes. Hopefully we can get out on our own time soon and sample some of these waterbodies and others with rod and reel. – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
I try to fly cast for sunfish species (bluegill, pumpkinseeds, black crappie, etc.) a few times of year. Although there are no guarantees when it comes to fishing, having a successful day with these smaller predators can come close. I enjoy the simplicity of this type of fishing as well as the respect I have for these species in both fight and appearance. There isn't a need for fish finders, high quality rods and reels or a large assortment of different types of tackle, and a canoe can fish as well as another other type of larger boat. A modest but adequate fly rod and reel setup with a small box of panfish plugs/poppers are all that is needed. I prefer to use floating fly line with a rod's length long leader of 6 pound monofilament and a rod around the 5 weight range. Five weight fly rods could be considered overkill, but it will give you enough support to land a larger fish if you happen to entice a larger bass or hook a larger pickerel in the outer part of its mouth. It is important to size the poppers appropriately to your target species. There are several different kits available on the market that covers an assortment of colors and sizes. It's best to be well equipped with at least a few different options to offer. When it comes to hook size, 1/0 hooks are suitable for larger fish species (and it couldn't hurt to carry a few of these if the bass are shallow) but a #8 or #10 size popper should be suitable. If you routinely observe your popper getting struck without a hookup, try downsizing. Some of recommended ponds to try within southeastern New Hampshire include: Bellamy Reservoir (Madbury), Brindle Pond (Barnstead), Heads Pond (Hooksett), Horseshoe Pond (Merrimack), and Shellcamp Pond (Gilmanton). – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
This week we finally got some relief in the form of cool air. Thankfully the fishing is still hot! If you really want to have some fun, there have been numerous reports of bluefin tuna just past the shoals, about 8 miles out. Bluefin tuna is a highly migratory species and the fishery is regulated by NOAA Fisheries. Participation in this fishery requires a permit issued by NOAA Fisheries, for more information call (888) 872-8862 or visit http://www.nmfspermits.com. The bluefish are finally around but they have been elusive thus far, one caught here and there. We’ve had reports of them in the river and at the mouth of Hampton Harbor, but no real frenzies yet. Try something new and check out your local jetty! These are great spots to find bait as well as trophy fish. There is a list of seashore access sites on the web at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/marine/marine_PDFs/seacoast_TMF_guide.pdf. If you aren’t interested in hiking out over rocks, an easy way to catch some fish and have a great time is on a party or charter boat; these captains have years of experience and can track down where the fish are hiding. Not sure what to do with those fish once you get them home? Here are a few simple ideas on how to cook your ocean catch, from my colleague Jessica Fischer: Melt about 1/2 stick of butter and transfer to a bowl. Add 1 sleeve of crushed up Ritz crackers and stir to coat the Ritz with the butter. Place fish in a baking dish and pour the Ritz crackers over the fish. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes (depending on the size of the fillets). The fish is done when it flakes with a fork but is still milky looking. This works best with cod or haddock or cusk. If you happen to catch a flounder you can make baked stuffed flounder almost as easily. To make the stuffing take a can of lump crab meat and add Ritz to your liking. I like more crab than Ritz so I only use about a half of a sleeve. Then place the stuffing in the center of the fillet and roll the sides up around the stuffing and place in a baking dish with the seams down. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes depending on the thickness. Serve with a salad and it is a great summer meal. - Robert Eckert, Marine Biologist
><> FEDERAL AID IN WILDLIFE AND SPORT FISH AND RESTORATION: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program. Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. To learn more: http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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NH Weekly Fishing Report - July 14, 2011
Stocking report: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/Stocking/current.html
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
2012 Fishing Rules: Weigh in on proposed changes to NH fishing rules at a public hearing on July 26 at 6:30 p.m. in Concord. More info at http://www.fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2011/News_2011_Q3/fish_rule_hrg_071311.html Send the young’uns to Fish Camp! July 31 – August 5: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2011/News_2011_Q2/BCC_Spaces_062111.html
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><> North Country
Water temperatures may be the single most important abiotic condition in fish biology. It is for this reason that the most successful anglers are those who understand the relationship between temperature and fish behavior. This morning, Little Diamond Pond in West Stewartstown was 78 degrees F. At this temperature, trout are going to be existing at the upper limit of their optimal conditions. If these temperatures continue with no reprieve, fish (and fishing) will suffer. On the other hand, the Upper Connecticut River in Pittsburg has a water temperature in the mid to upper fifties. During my last visit, I saw trout rising in almost every pool. They were sipping mayflies (pale morning duns) and metabolizing at a healthy rate. As summer progresses, it is important to keep this relationship in mind as you decide which waterbody to fish. Beginning about four weeks ago, a large cream-colored mayfly began arriving on waterbodies in Northern New Hampshire. They belong to the genus Hexagenia and are some of the largest mayflies in the world. Referred to as a “Hex-hatch”, these mayflies serve as a dinner-bell for hungry fish. Almost every type of fish will rise for these flies and they are an important food in both their adult (terrestrial) and nymph or emerger (aquatic) stages. Both cold and warmwater fishermen can be seen casting these imitations. Watching a fish rise for a surface strike is as good as fishing gets for me. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
Things are heating up in the Lakes Region. Winnipesaukee water temp is running around 75 degrees. The bass have moved to cooler waters, 15-25 feet deep. Even my dusk exploits with bass poppers on Winnisquam have turned off, with only an occasional fallfish cruising the shoreline. I have some new neighbors who are renting a camp for the week on Winnisquam, but have had little luck fishing from the shoreline over a sandy flat of 6 foot deep water. This family has a great bunch of kids, all outfitted with spinning rods, and quite proficient with their casting ability. I talked with my neighbor and told him of a spot I often took a bunch of kids fishing on the lake. I steered him to Mosquito Bridge, which crosses Winnisquam near the southern end, and is the direct route for traffic heading to Laconia. Fishing near the outside bridge abutments at this time of year, from a boat, can yield a variety of fish species. Cool, deep, shaded water near the bridge is a natural attraction for schools of young-of-the-year (YOY) fish, which include yellow and white perch, sunfish, shiners and rock bass. This food supply, of course attracts small and largemouth bass and the occasional pickerel to the area. I told my neighbor to bring plenty of worms and a supply of hooks with him, as the last time I fished there with kids I ran out of worms in a half hour! I can think of many bridge crossings in the Lakes Region where this feat can be duplicated. Cover and structure are what warmwater fish thrive in, and bridges provide just that. Enjoy a day with the kids at these locations; it will bring a smile to your face! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
This is a great time of the year to spend time on the Connecticut River. Whether you like to fish, boat, paddle, swim, or view wildlife, the NH/VT border has it all. In our region, I like to spend a summer day on the river anywhere from Walpole to Hinsdale. I usually head out early if I am going to fish, because boat traffic will pick-up on the weekends during hot days. Trolling is a great way to learn and cover a lot of the river and will likely result in a mixed bag of fish like walleye, smallmouth bass, pike, pickerel, yellow and white perch. Drifting with the current and casting to near shore structure like wood, rocks, vegetation, or even current breaks are effective ways to fish the river. Once the mid-day sun starts to get to me, I look for one of the many spots on the river that are great for tying up the boat and lounging by the river. Bring a picnic lunch some chairs and do a little swimming. Not a bad way to spend a summer day! – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Anglers often jump on I-93 and head to the central or northern part of the state in pursuit of trophy bass waters. What some may not realize is that when driving, they are paralleling some quality bass fishing opportunities closer to home. The Merrimack River has several public access points from Nashua to Boscawen. Anglers can expect to encounter a variety of habitats consisting of submerged and emergent aquatic vegetation, fallen trees, rock piles, sand bars, and tributary confluences. Most of these locations can be fished with any type of vessel from a small kayak to large bass boat. One of my favorite access points is at the New Hampshire Technical Institute in Concord. This launch puts you in a section of river with a lot of different options. You can drift the current downstream and fish the habitat created by fallen maples and white pines as well some rocky sections and other habitat created by bridges. If you head straight across from the launch, you will encounter a large vegetated cove. Here, as water levels recede to sometime levels, smaller watercraft may have an advantage. There a several oxbows and shallow water sections loaded with aquatic vegetation that holds fish year round. Some of these areas have narrow and shallow entrances but then open up into large pond like areas. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
I had the opportunity to join one of New Hampshire’s headboat companies on a two-hour night fishing trip this past weekend. Nearly half of the boat had never fished before!!! The trip started off a little slow but we moved around until we found some action and lots of it. Mackerel were coming over the sides one after another; one young man was surprised to have two mackerel to a hook. We returned to Hampton Harbor as the sun was setting; what a great way to spend an evening! Everyone had a great time, especially those that had never been fishing before; I think it is safe to say they will be back! They are targeting mackerel and striped bass on the two-hour night trips right now, but usually switch over to blues once they come in strong, so pick up the phone before you head down. I highly recommend these trips. They are always a blast, not to mention short enough for a youngster’s attention span.
As of July 1, the NH Recreational Saltwater Fishing License is now $11! (You don't need a license if you are fishing from a party boat.) - Becky Heuss, Marine Biologist
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Copyright 2011 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
NH Weekly Fishing Report - July 7, 2011
Stocking report: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/Stocking/current.html
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Send the young’uns to Fish Camp! July 31 – August 5: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2011/News_2011_Q2/BCC_Spaces_062111.html
><> North Country
We were able to hike into Sheehan Pond this past week. Water temperatures were ideal for fishing (high 60s). The slight breeze was ideal to keep the horseflies down and four Canada geese graced our presence. The water temperatures, at least in the North Country, have been below average for this time of year. Rivers are still in the low 60s and ponds have been averaging in the high 60s. Perfect for catching that trophy fish you have been dreaming about. Even with the high air temperatures over the holiday weekend, water temperatures have held their own.
It is a beautiful time of year to try a new waterbody. Take a hike into one of our remote ponds. Try Sessions Pond (Dummer) or Munn Pond (Errol). I’ve heard great news on the status and health of the brook trout in these waters. You could also try your luck with pickerel in Cherry Pond (Jefferson). Umbagog is still fishing well if you’d like some bigger water for bass; and so are Profile and Streeter for brookies and rainbows, respectively. Enjoy New Hampshire! – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
This report is entitled “Hot and Cold.” It’s July and the heat has arrived! Big lake temps are running in the 72-74 degree range, and that means the landlocked salmon and lake trout are down….salmon at least 35 feet, lake trout even more. Early morning anglers (0430 hrs!) will often find salmon and especially rainbow trout a lot closer to the surface. By the end of July, as young-of-the- year (YOY) smelt gain some size, rainbows and salmon will be feeding on schools of these smelt in the surface waters, and will be noticeable by boils in the water, not unlike bluefish slashing at baitfish. You definitely want to be on the water early, as this is vacation time, and it seems that the water-skiers have learned to take advantage of the morning calm. Hexagenia mayflies are hatching on Winnisquam now, providing rainbows and salmon with a change of diet. These are the days that our salmon and rainbow trout put on weight, as food is readily available, and with the YOY smelt growing to size, it’s the “good times” out there! Streamer flies, long shank size 6 and smaller spoons will work well now. I continue to remind anglers of the “Landlocked Salmon Anglers Pledge” (http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/salmon_anglers_pledge.html) and the basic theme…protect and enjoy our salmon fishery, it is finite, and fragile, and the actions of every angler are critical to sustain it. Now the “cold” part! I recently travelled to far northern NH to stock Kennebago (Maine strain) brook trout fingerlings into a remote pond that was not stocked by helicopter. Although you can get close to this pond by 4X4 truck…I wouldn’t venture in there without a good, high ground clearance vehicle. Even then, there is a muddy slog through a swamp to gain access to the shoreline. Once there, I was amazed by the boats tied (and chained) to trees…a very good sign that this pond provides some good fishing for brookies! I was joined by North Country biologists Dianne Emerson and Andy Schafermeyer, in addition to my fellow Region 2 biologist John Viar. A special guest was my long-time hunting and fishing pal, Roger (he brought his canoe) and his friend Rich. All together, we stocked approximately 50 pounds of fingerlings (120 per lb) into this most beautiful cold-water pond (temp 65 degrees). I must tell you, the drive is long, but that country is so far removed from what we are accustomed to; we are blessed to have ponds like this to explore. And, by the way, Roger and Rich stayed and fished after the work was over, and enjoyed a summer afternoon of watching deer (doe and fawn) swimming across the pond, and also caught some nice brookies! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
We
’ve been out electrofishing and dealing with a fish kill on Spofford Lake recently, so not much to report this week from an angling perspective – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist ><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Now that the shad transfer season has wound down, our annual surveys to assess populations of wild brook trout and their habitats are about to begin. For the past three field seasons, staff from NH Fish and Game have worked to fine tune the current wild brook trout distribution in the state and also record and increase public awareness on the issues that lead to degrading of both aquatic habitat and water quality. We've learned that partnerships formed with local conservation groups and angling groups can be an invaluable resource, not only to help with the surveys but also incorporate the data collected to use in land use planning and headwater stream protection. Although local conservation groups can have different priorities, a mutual desire to identify areas that contain clean, cool, well oxygenated water and protect them is shared. This month, we plan to work with the Hanover and Bath conservation commissions to evaluate parts of the Mink Brook and Ammonoosuc River watersheds. Given that these areas will likely have intact populations of wild brook trout, it is hoped that the information collected will be used in town level planning that emphasized the protection of both wild, self-sustaining populations of wild brook trout and water quality. In August, it is expected that we will return back to the southeastern part of the state to learn more about the isolated populations of wild brook trout found there. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
This past weekend was as much hit or miss with the fishing as it was with the weather. Heavy boat traffic over the long weekend was not conducive to fishing. Mackerel are still around, but they are requiring a little more effort and people are starting to pick up bigger ones now, not just the tinkers we had a week ago. We have received our first reports of bluefish (don’t say it too loud, you might scare them away!) which could also account for the slower fishing. These are being caught a little ways offshore, so you shore fishers will have to wait a while longer for your chance at them. Whaleback is open to groundfishing as of July 1.
Here’s to low traffic, nice weather, and more fish! - Becky Heuss, Marine Biologist
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NH Weekly Fishing Report - June 16, 2011
Stocking report: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Taking a dad fishing for Father’s Day this Sunday? Good idea! http://wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2011/News_2011_Q2/fathers_day_2011.html
Fishing Camp: Know a kid age 10-16 who wants to learn how to fish or improve their skills? Sign them up for the "Let's Go Fishing" week at Barry Conservation Camp (July 31-August 5). Cost for the overnight week at camp is $475. Register at http://extension.unh.edu/4H/4HCamps.htm.
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><> North Country
The North Country seems to be feast or famine this last week. Once again the cool nights have deterred fish from moving and feeding frequently but warmer weather yesterday flicked the switch. I saw a great photo of a 5-year old holding a two-year old rainbow from Pearl Lake. The 14-inch trout was no match for the length of the boy’s smile while holding his prize. The lower portion of Indian Stream fished well yesterday, and so did the upper Connecticut. Stocking has been in full swing for the past month so most waterbodies have been stocked at least once at this point. The lower Androscoggin has been giving up some beautiful brown trout, greater than 12 inches. Weather is touch and go for this weekend, with thunderstorms in Pittsburg predicted and sunny weather in Littleton. That’s the surprise of the North Country; once you pass through Franconia Notch it’s anyone’s guess. Check the weather first, but I bet this weekend and next week are going to be hot fishing up north. Be the first to head into one of the remote ponds for 2011. You may want to check with the Regional Office (http://www.wildnh.com/Inside_FandG/Reg_Office_directions.htm) as some local roads washed out after the tremendous storms we experienced this spring. Try Umbagog Lake for some fun with bass. This time of year (post-spawn) can really be exciting. – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
We’ve just experienced a “throwback” to early spring here in the lakes region of New Hampshire. Several days of low clouds, rain/drizzle and a hard east wind (with temps in the 50s) haven’t done much for fishing in this area. The water temperature in Winnipesaukee is still hanging in the mid-60 degree range. Bass remain on the nests in the open areas of the big lakes, while the back coves, where temps may be slightly higher may see the fry around the nests, are in the early stages of dispersal. A recent electroshocking survey on Opechee Lake revealed several bass (large and smallmouth) cruising the shorelines near the sites of “old” nests. Sunfish nests were quite apparent also in the shallow water in coves. It was interesting to find several landlocked salmon still in the tailrace of the Lakeport Dam! This is highly fishable water right now, because flows out of Winnipesaukee are extremely low, 250 cubic feet per second (cfs). The salmon were definitely excited by the current field! Also, don’t forget that Opechee is a “destination” fishery for rainbow trout as it is stocked annually with yearling rainbows. Opechee is not a lake trout/landlocked salmon lake, therefore general rules apply for the rainbows, 5 fish or 5 pounds, whichever is reached first, with no length limit. There is a fine boat launch near the southern end of the lake. Trout ponds still afford some good fishing, although day-time anglers will find the fish a bit deeper, while there are some fine insect hatches occurring at dusk. White Pond (Ossipee) (fly-fishing-only), White Lake (Tamworth) and Conner Pond (Ossipee) are all beautiful ponds to fish in the southern White Mt. Area. And don’t forget Duncan Lake (Ossipee), all feature some real nice brook trout. Stream fishing is at its peak now, and water levels are dropping, so don’t waste any time in getting out there! Aerial trout stocking of our remote trout ponds will occur soon. If you like to hike and enjoy a good meal of trout by the campfire, try one of our 48 remote ponds this spring/summer, the experience is memorable! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
The recent weather pattern has been keeping trout anglers very happy. Last week’s temperatures were really starting to warm water temps up and stream flows were running at summer-time lows. These cool temperatures and scattered showers will keep streams cool and trout scattered and actively feeding. Now is the time to hit your local trout streams before the summer heat comes in full force. A few days ago I fished a local pond that is managed for brook trout, except I was fishing for smallmouth bass. It was a cold, damp day, but the bass were on fire. Fish were post-spawn and actively feeding (these fish could also have been fish in the population that didn’t spawn this year). In four hours of fishing we caught around 30 bass. Wacky-rigged worms, shaky-head worms, and tubes fished along near shore drop-offs with scattered rocks was the ticket. I need to get out and fish more of these smallmouth ponds and lakes in the next couple of weeks before water temps really warm up and the smallmouth head out to deep water for the summer, which makes them more difficult to locate and catch. – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
As with our counterparts in the Monadnock/Upper Valley area, who are working to increase spawning success of American shad in the Connecticut River, we are charged with the same restoration program within the Merrimack River watershed. To date, around 700 pre-spawn American shad have been released in the upper portions of the Merrimack River in Boscawen and Concord. This section of river has been identified as suitable spawning habitat, a location once thought to be utilized freely by American shad before impoundments restricted access here. These shad are initially trapped at the fish lift in the Essex Dam (Lawrence, Mass.). The Connecticut River inherently has a more productive shad migration than what has been observed in the Merrimack River. As of this week, over 244,000 shad have been counted in the Connecticut while slightly over 11,000 shad have been counted in the Merrimack. On a positive note, the Atlantic salmon returns for the Merrimack River are at near record numbers. Between 1982 and 2010, records indicate the best return year was 1991 with 332 Atlantic salmon returning to the Merrimack River. As of this week, already 315 salmon have been trapped at the Essex Dam. We expect to continue to see Atlantic salmon being trapped for at least three more weeks. These fish are utilized for future egg production to sustain the restoration of the species. This year, some Atlantic salmon will be tagged and released in southern New Hampshire to monitor habitat selection and evaluate efforts to establish a more natural form of reproduction and restoration. Earlier this month, the second annual McQuesten Brook and Pond cleanup was held in Manchester and Bedford. Many thanks are owed to the staff from the Department of Environmental Services, NH Rivers Council, the city of Manchester, NH Fish and Game, and volunteers from the Anheuser Busch and the Manchester Fly Fishing Association. Despite a cleanup occurring last year, I was amazed at the amount of trash and litter still found. For example, 18 tires, 27 trash bags, a full size heating oil tank, 3 propane tanks, and 2 shopping carts, amongst much more was collected this year. Both McQuesten Brook and Pond are important urban habitats for countless fish and other species associated with aquatic habitats. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
I often get strange looks when I tell people that I’m a vegetarian. “You work with recreational fisheries and you don’t eat fish!?” I know, it’s a bit odd. It’s not that I have an ethical problem with eating animals; it’s simply that I don’t like meat. This fact does make me a bit of an oddity but it also makes me a great fishing partner (please, take mine!). My fishing preferences are also affected by my aversion, as mackerel fishing is my all-time favorite. Most people think of mackerel solely as a bait fish, they catch a few macks in preparation for their striper fishing. While striper fishing is fun, unless they are hitting hard my attention span is much too short for the effort that this prized fish demands. When the mackerel are in, they will hit on any small shiny lure, but mackerel jigs and mackerel trees are most commonly used. As I am only interested in the fishing, there is no reason to catch more than one at a time so I will use a single lure as apposed to the tree. They are a small fish -- but as they are related to the much larger tuna, they put up a good fight for their size. Great Island Common in New Castle is a popular and highly productive spot for mackerel; anglers have been having good results there recently. You could also try the jetties in Rye or Hampton; the jetties at Fort Stark and Odiorne Point are seemingly underutilized as well. Mackerel fishing, it’s not just for kids (but kids like it too)! – Becky Heuss, Marine Biologist
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NH Weekly Fishing Report - June 9, 2011
NH Weekly Fish
NH Weekly Fish Stocking report: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
NH Weekly Fish Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
NH Weekly Fish Fishing Camp: Know a kid age 10-16 who wants to learn how to fish or improve their skills? Sign them up for the "Let's Go Fishing" week at Barry Conservation Camp (July 31-August 5). Cost for the overnight week at camp is $475. Register at http://extension.unh.edu/4H/4HCamps.htm.
NH Weekly Fish Kayak Fishing in Rye: Learn how to fish for striped bass from your kayak at a class on Friday, June 17, from 3:00 -7:00 p.m. Leaves from Odiorne Point Boat Launch in Rye. Participants must be 18 or older. Cost is $25. Pre-registration required. To sign up, call 603-778-0015 and ask for Kelle Loughlin.
NH Weekly Fish Ct. River Boat Access Alert: Trailered boaters should avoid using the following boat ramps on the Connecticut River until further notice: Ashley Ferry Boat Ramp in Claremont, Bedell Bridge Boat Ramp in Haverhill, and the ramp in Orford. Significant mud and silt accumulation on the ramps means you risk getting stuck in the mud. These sites are okay for cartop boat launching.
NH Weekly Fish ><> North Country
NH Weekly Fish Whoa, talk about crazy weather! It is amazing what one week can do…Last week at this time it was rainy and cold. Tornado warnings in the North Country? Yes, plus high winds and storms with large hail. Water temperatures were in the low 40s in some locations during the morning hours. This week is the exact opposite: oppressing humidity and air temperatures in the high 80s. Water temperatures in some locations hit 70. Today it is supposed to change; let’s hope. These hot, bright sunny days are not good for fishing. Fishing yesterday in Indian Stream was pretty much over by 10 a.m. when the heat started rising. When the sun is bright and river temperatures begin to rise, trout seek refuge. It could result from the depth of a pool or venturing into a completely different waterbody. They will find it and forget about feeding until they are comfortable again. When that happens, you should think about taking a break too. Warm temperatures can be lethal to trout that are caught and released, even if they seem fit as they swim away -- delayed mortality is a common occurrence during heat waves. Trout like cold water, so when the surface temperatures exceed the low 60s, their return to the water can be quite a shock. If you want to keep the trout happy, fish when the air temperatures are cool and the bright sun is hiding. Now that water levels have dropped substantially, try your luck on the Connecticut River below Murphy Dam. It stays cool and the drop in water level has really turned on the feeding. Try a bead head nymph this time of year. It mimics many different aquatic insects in their juvenile stage. The weather this weekend is suppose to be much cooler, perfect for making a few casts into your favorite pond. Streeter Pond and Martin Meadow come to mind. – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
NH Weekly Fish ><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
NH Weekly Fish The landlocked salmon fishing has started to heat up, just as our surface waters have climbed into the mid-60 degree range! Reports of some big numbers are filtering in from the area lakes. Most fish caught are two-year-olds (adipose clip) with a sprinkling of some older age-classes, especially from Big Squam. A lucky angler recently stopped by the office with a couple salmon in the 5-6 pound range from Big Squam. Now, those in the know realize this is not a common occurrence on any of our salmon lakes, but it is heartening to hear of these impressive catches. Another tremendous salmon was caught recently from Pleasant Lake/New London -- it weighed a shade over 11 pounds! All this being said, remember, the two-year-olds are the future three-year-olds (real quality salmon) that are the mainstay of our fisheries. Please take a few minutes to review our “salmon anglers pledge” at http://www.wildnh.com/Fishing/salmon_anglers_pledge.html. It details proper handling techniques for salmon, and is “good” reading for anyone who is concerned about this valuable yet fragile fishery we are blessed to have in New Hampshire. Smallmouth bass are still sitting on their beds in most of our large lakes…I expect the fry to move up and off the nests in the next week. From mid-June through the first week of July, my favorite bass fishing occurs…..fly rods and poppers on hungry bass cruising the flats! Trout ponds from the lakes region north now have some great insect hatches occurring at dusk. Profile Lake has been producing some great brook trout, as well as the “next door” lake, Echo. Weekday evenings are best, we are getting into the summer tourist season and weekends in the notch can be really busy. - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
NH Weekly Fish ><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
NH Weekly Fish Water levels in area streams and rivers are dropping at a fast rate and the weather is getting hot and steamy. With weather like this, I like to get out for some stream trout early in the day and then again right at dusk. Sunscreen and bug dope are a must, as are some old sneakers and shorts for wet wading. Based on the reports I have been getting, I am definitely getting out for trout this weekend and so should you. The trout fishing on the upper Ashuelot River in Surry, Marlow, and Gilsum is hot right now! Anglers have been calling and stopping by the office telling us about the gorgeous rainbow and brown trout they are catching. Some of the rainbows are stretching the tape at 20 inches. I passed an angler on my way to work this morning on the lower Ashuelot River in Winchester and had to stop and see how he was doing. He had just started fishing, but said that in the past week he has been doing very well on trout, even catching a few holdovers. Reports from the Cold River in Walpole and Alstead have been good as well. Trout anglers are also doing well in lakes and ponds. Anglers are having trouble keeping trout off their lines in Forest Lake (Winchester) with some of the rainbows pushing three lbs. A fly troller I know caught an 18 inch brown trout in Gustin Pond (Marlow) just a few days ago. Some other hot fishing trout lakes and ponds to try include Swanzey Lake (Swanzey), Spofford Lake (Chesterfield), and Center Pond (Nelson). – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist ><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley The intense heat from this week causing an increase of water temperatures will be pushing trout species down to cooler depths. For those who tend to reduce their efforts fishing for trout during this time of year because of the challenge of fishing deeper, there are several available options that can be used that are both effective and relatively inexpensive. These items can be used easily in all watercraft including canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. Dodgers (sometimes referred to as flashers) can be tied directly to the terminal line. A short leader (typically less than three feet) is tied to the back of the dodger and the bait, lure, or fly is then tied to the terminal end of the line. Dodgers serve several purposes. They spin erratically giving your lure, bait, or fly a lot of action. The reflective material on them attracts inquisitive predators. They also provide a method to sink the line to greater depths. It is important to check the movement of both the dodger and your lure to ensure it has the proper motion at the speed you are trolling. Another simple tool one can use to access greater depths is lead-core line. This larger sized line typically requires a larger reel. The line is color coded, allowing anglers the ability to keep track of the amount of line out and approximate depth. The rate of line descent depends on trolling speed. While trolling for trout, I prefer longer leaders tied off of the lead core line. At a minimum, I prefer 50 feet of light pound (4 or 6 pound monofilament or fluorocarbon line). A small barrel swivel tied 4 to 6 feet up from your lure, fly, or bait is essential to prevent line twist. Windy days tend to work best while using lead core because the rocking of the boat can add action to the line. Our Inland Fisheries Program Supervisor, Scott Decker, has been doing well with lead core line at Pleasant Lake in Deerfield lately. He says trout are hitting between three and four colors right now on small Mooselook wobblers, during the early evening hours. There are some disadvantages of using lead core or dodgers. Since heavier lines and objects providing resistance are being used, these types of equipment can dampen the fight. Also, more distance is needed to make turns while trolling. This can be a challenge in some of our smaller trout ponds. That being said, anglers need to be particularly careful when fishing for trout when surface water temperatures are at their summertime levels. Appropriate gear (pliers, hemostats, rubber net, etc.) should be readily accessible to avoid additional exposure to uncomfortable conditions for trout. Anglers should also avoid handling fish with dry hands and equipment. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist ><> Seacoast Area Anglers have been reporting large schools of mackerel at the mouth of the Piscataqua. These schools have attracted the attention of the stripers. I suggest fishing in Great Bay and in the Piscataqua if you want to catch a striper. The charters and headboats are still catching cod and haddock if you’re interested in deep sea fishing. Just a reminder that the headboat companies on the coast have begun their summer schedules, with half-day inshore trips targeting mackerel. This past week, two colleagues and I went scuba diving for winter flounder along the coast. Equipped with gigs and a catch bag, we dove into the cold, rough seas in an area with a sandy/muddy bottom, ideal for flounder. Once under water everything was calm and I began to see dozens of impressions in the mud were the flounder had been. It was not long before I saw a winter flounder and made a quick estimate to make sure it was larger than the 12 inch size limit and then took aim with the gig. The three of us saw a dozen-plus flounders and took a half dozen home, ranging from 14.5 inches to 18 inches. It was a great experience that I recommend to those who have the right gear and skills; just make sure the flounder is legal size before you shoot. – Robert Eckert, Marine Biologist
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ng Report - May 26, 2011
Mark your calendar and round up your friends for NH Free Fishing Day – next Saturday, June 4! http://www.fishnh.com/Events/free_fishing_day.html
Stocking report: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
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NORTH COUNTRY
Sorry folks, we weren’t able to get a report for you this week. Look for us on June 2! – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
LAKES REGION/WHITE MOUNTAINS
As I write this report, I am blinded by the sun…which has finally made an appearance here in the Lakes Region after what seems like a month! The Lake Winnipesaukee water temperature has made it into the mid-50s, with many shallow bays and coves near 60 degrees. Bass spawning has commenced at last, a bit later than usual. Remember, our catch/release season on bass is May 15-June 15, artificial lures and flies only, and immediate release at the site of capture. Try fishing on the drop-offs where many non-spawning bass may lurk. Only a certain percentage of bass in a lake spawn for a variety of reasons, those are the bass that are “off” the flats. The white perch run in the Winnipesaukee River in Laconia is still “on,” and while fishing the river, you just might catch a variety of other species. I recently met two young fishermen behind Martel’s Bait & Sport Shop in Laconia, situated on the Winnipesaukee River, who had a couple nice lake trout on a stringer, caught with worms! Laconia, “the City on the Lake,” is a great spot to spend some time fishing. The Winnipesaukee River runs right through downtown Laconia, and shoreline fishing in this area can be very exciting. Rainbow (and lake) trout are found in the river along with landlocked salmon, bass, pickerel and of course, white perch, now on their spawning run. Avery Dam, near the historic Belknap Mill, the outlet structure for Opechee Lake, creates a deep plunge pool below its turbines, where I have seen salmon caught well into late June! Further upstream is Opechee Lake, which holds stocked rainbow trout and numerous landlocked salmon that “drop down” from Lake Winnipesaukee. The outlet of Winnipesaukee, Lakeport Dam, also is home to a very popular tailrace fishery below the dam where rainbow trout and salmon are caught each spring. Further south, on Lake Winnisquam, is Lochmere Dam, another fine place to fish, where the short stretch of river flows into Silver Lake. Look for good perch action here in the spring (white and yellow) with some great smallmouth and largemouth bass thrown in for good measure. While water temperatures remain in the 50-degree range, you will also encounter rainbow and brown trout here. The Pemigewasset River is still running high; we’re waiting for a few “dry” days for this river to begin to recede. As soon as we “dry out,” hit the streams because the insect hatches are on right now! - Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
MONADNOCK/UPPER VALLEY
Just heard a few reports of anglers doing very well on rainbow trout in Forest Lake (Winchester) and Silver Lake (Harrisville). An angler reported catching a 19” holdover rainbow at Silver Lake this week. I also heard from an angler fishing Willard Pond (Antrim) who has been catching all three species of trout stocked there (tiger trout, rainbow trout, brook trout). Additionally, he reported landing a 17-inch tiger trout, which is definitely a holdover fish! In addition to the good fishing, Willard Pond is a beautiful place to fish. It is just under a hundred acres and undeveloped, with a totally wooded shoreline mostly owned by NH Audubon. There is a gravel ramp and gas motors are prohibited. The pond is fly-fishing only and trout pond regulations apply.
I received a note the other day from an angler I have been emailing with for a number of years and finally met this past winter while fishing Nubanusit Lake. Brian and his son, Brian, Jr., seem to get out on the water (or ice) every chance they get. They are both very interested in learning new techniques and fishing for everything that swims. Turns out that last week, predicted storms kept them close to home and so instead of fishing a lake trout/salmon lake, they fished a nearby bass pond. After striking out on one shoreline, they figured out that given the still-low water temperatures, they should be fishing the opposite shoreline as it receives the most sun. First cast on the new shoreline with a floating Rapala resulted in a nice 2-lb. largemouth. After that, it was game on, and the father and son team caught and released over a dozen largemouth. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
SOUTHEAST NH/MERRIMACK VALLEY
We expect to be able to release more broodstock Atlantic salmon soon. If flow rates continue to subside, it is expected that all of these fish will be out by the middle of next week. The watersheds of the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee rivers have taken a lot of time to drain this year. We have already received reports of multiple fish being caught in the Pemigewasset River in Bristol/New Hampton. I'd like to say thank you to our volunteers for all the help this past week while stocking trout in the Cocheco River. During the annual Cocheco River Clean Up Day, organized by Great Bay Trout Unlimited, hundreds of brook, brown, and rainbow trout were scattered in the river by the local boy scout troop and students from local schools. A trip to the Cocheco River in Dover is highly recommended. The Liberty Mutual/Measured Progress trail provides ideal access to this scenic river on the northern side of the river beginning at Watson Road. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
SEACOAST AREA
The stripers are hitting! Anglers have been reeling them in on the Town Landing in Newmarket and the Swasey Parkway in Exeter. If you have yet to try striper fishing, now’s your chance. It can be quite a thrill to have a striper on your line. If you land one you may find yourself “hooked” on striper fishing. It’s open season for winter flounder. You can try angling for these delicious flatfish from various jetties and bridges on the coast, although you may have more success from a boat. Whichever mode of fishing you choose, stay close to the mouths of estuaries and harbors for greater success. Remember that these fish have small mouths, so use small hooks. Winter flounder have a minimum length of 12 inches and a bag limit of 8 fish per day. Groundfishing has been “hit or miss” lately and many fishing attempts have been thwarted by rough seas. However, this past Sunday seemed to be an all around good day. Despite the closure on Whaleback, you don’t have to go all the way out to Jeffery’s to catch cod. Anglers have been doing well on Old Scantum, which is much closer and therefore more accessible to smaller vessels – Jessica Devoid, Marine Biological Aide
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Copyright 2011 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov. C
NH WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – September 9, 2010
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
BARRY CAMP CHALLENGE – Next work weekend is Sept. 25-26: http://wildlife.state.nh.us/Newsroom/News_2010/News_2010_Q3/Barry_Camp_Update_090110.html. Also – Did you attend Barry Camp as a youngster? Want to share your camp memories? See http://wildlife.state.nh.us/barrycamp/barrycamp_memories.html
Stocking report: Stocking is done for the season. Previous reports at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
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><> North Country
Ah yes, September! Crisp mornings full of dew and mountain streams full of active brook trout. Water temperatures are beginning to cool down after the tremendous heat wave. Leaves are just starting to change in some of the low lying wetlands in northern New Hampshire. This time of year is the most beautiful in my opinion. The leaves change to bright orange and red and so do the brook trout. Try attractant patterns if you are fly fishing. This time of year brook trout are getting ready to spawn and prior to the act, they can get quite feisty. Hatches are not real prominent but that’s okay because the fish attack anything that aggravates them so a perfect match is unnecessary. Warmwater fish are still active right now, too, which makes this time of year the perfect potential. Try ponds or vegetated sections in rivers that you missed over the summer. You may catch quite a thrill. We are also gearing up for some of our fall stocked waters. Akers Pond, Pearl Lake, and Martin Meadow Pond are worth a try for rainbows. These are just some of the ponds throughout New Hampshire that have no closed season that receive a load of fish in the fall. Good luck and don’t forget the kids. Just because school is back in session doesn’t mean you can’t save your time for the weekends. They may need a nice nature break! – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
As summer is on the wane and September is here, the big lake fisheries are coming to a close on September 30, for lake and rainbow trout, and of course, landlocked salmon. I have had several good reports of salmon and rainbows caught in Winnisquam Lake recently. The stomach contents of one salmon had a white perch YOY (young-of-the-year) in its gut. During our large lake forage fish studies, we often encounter pelagic (free-ranging) perch, both yellow and white in our trawls. Although our coldwater fisheries are pretty much dependent on the rainbow smelt, juvenile perch, especially in late summer/early fall constitute an important component in our salmonids’ diet. The forage fish survey on Winnipesaukee was just recently completed, and the smelt population looks to be in great shape, with a good age-class composition of YOY and older aged smelt in the samples. We will continue on to the other big lakes (Sunapee, Big Squam and Winnisquam), and hopefully have similar results. Word is out about an 8+ pound landlocked salmon caught somewhere in the lakes region. Now that is some kind of salmon!! I will be enjoying these last few days of salmon fishing with my fellow biologists, and other fishing buddies, some I haven't fished with in quite a while. It's a great time of year to look back on the past season, and relish the time left on the water with friends. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
I recently ventured out on Nubanusit Lake in Hancock in pursuit of smallmouth bass. In the year and a half that I have been working here at Region 4, I have yet to have heard much about anglers targeting smallmouth at Nuby, so I thought I would give it a try. I lucked out on this day as it didn’t take me long to find some schooled up smallies. I started on the near shore drop-offs where there was some wood and rocks. I was fishing a drop-shot rigged with a three inch Berkley Power Bait Minnow to imitate a smelt, the main forage in the lake. After fishing near shore with nothing but tiny bass that couldn’t even take the bait, I started to move to the deeper water in the cove I was fishing. As soon as I got into 30 feet of water, I started nailing the bass. They were all solid fish from 15 to 18 inches and for a short time I was hooking-up on almost every cast. What a blast! Other lakes in the Monadnock Region to give this tactic a try are Silver Lake in Harrisville, Spofford Lake in Chesterfield, and Dublin Lake in Dublin. – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
The cooler nights are slowly beginning to take a bite out of the warm water temperatures throughout the state. This, in concert with shorter periods of daylight, is triggering the spawning stages of mature trout. With only about a month left of fishing in the designated trout ponds of New Hampshire, anglers have an opportunity to catch trout with brilliant coloration that goes nicely with the soon to be changing leaves as a backdrop. Designated trout ponds close on October 15 but several other waterbodies remain open throughout the entire fall. Massabesic Lake (Auburn), Pleasant Lake (Deerfield), Beaver Lake (Derry), Catamount Pond (Allenstown), and Willand Pond (Somersworth) are just some of the examples of waterbodies that can be fished throughout the year. See http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/year_round_trout_ponds.htm for a complete list of waterbodies without closed seasons. While recently speaking with anglers at the Hopkinton State Fair, some expressed concern about their fishing experiences in 2010, particularly when targeting cold water species in rivers and streams. Up to this point, it has been a bad year to be a fish in southern New Hampshire. Record heat and lack of rain have dried rivers to a trickle. In some instances, streams that regularly have consistent flow year round are completely gone, leaving only an exposed stream bed. Other streams have a few disconnected pools with no flow where some fortunate fish have managed to find refuge. This emphasizes the need for vegetated buffers along stream corridors. Not only does vegetation provide cooling shade and habitat when trees are allowed to fall in, buffers also slow the rate of runoff, allowing flows to be released more consistently and gradually. When stream buffers are removed and replaced by impervious surfaces, the valuable rain water is flushed down a stream (along with contaminants associated with parking lots) almost immediately, causing the stream to return to low flows very quickly. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
As we all know, Earl was a bust! The storm was certainly successful in stirring up our waters. Strong northwest winds following the storm further added to the frustration of shore fishers, whereas off-shore fishers took advantage of the abundance of forage stirred up by the turbulence. With the storm and winds behind us, I suspect fishing will return to normal. The headboat companies and a few offshore anglers have reported some large pollock being caught. One angler reported that as he was reeling in his pollock, a blue shark tore through his fish! The upcoming weeks should produce some exciting offshore fishing as these large fish move into the area. Striper fishing may soon see significant changes as the fish prepare for their annual fall migration. Stripers will start to move out of the bays and rivers in pursuit of baitfish. They will begin to feed heavily as our daylight hours decrease. This heavy feeding enables the fish to bulk up for their return to their natal spawning waters in the Hudson River, and the Delaware and Chesapeake Bays. As the fish move out, look to our beaches for the action! The fish will start to congregate right off shore where you will likely see them actively feeding at the surface. If you see a surface blitz, it’s time to run and gun! A surf caster will do well using either live eels or top water plugs. Evening and early morning hours will see the most action. Good luck and tight lines! – Lon Robinson, Marine Bio-Aide
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
NH WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – SEPTEMBER 2, 2010
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
Stocking report: Stocking is done for the season. Previous reports at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
NORTH COUNTRY:
What is a heat-wave and what does it mean for trout fishing? A heat wave is a period of unusually hot weather. That is what we have been experiencing these last few days of record temperatures in August and September. It has been stifling at the very least. What does this do to fish? You think they are okay because they are constantly surrounded by water, right? Wrong! These oppressive temperatures negatively impact fish as well. The habitat that fish live in is directly related to weather. If the weather is cool and rainy, then rivers and streams flow well and remain cool. If weather is hot and dry, then rivers without cover tend to be the same. What is cover? Well cover can be any structure or thing that provides protection, in this case for the fish. It may be shade from the hot sun or a deep pool to ward off bird predation. Knowing this, one can assume fish are either going to venture into deep pools or migrate up or down the stream to areas with more shade or to cooler tributary confluences. If the fish don’t have that freedom to move, then they have to make do during the thermal stress event. If they don’t, then they die. This is what happens during the late spring/early summer when the air temperature warms up rapidly and fish don’t have time to acclimate to their new environment. We call such an event a fish kill. So with that harsh lesson, I would recommend letting things cool off before you head out fishing for trout. They are already stressed and most likely spending their energy seeking cool refuge. Try focusing on warmwater species like northern pike, large- and smallmouth bass and yellow perch. Target vegetation beds and log structures. They will be where the fish are hiding. I would try Cedar Pond, Martin Meadow, Forest Lake, Pontook and Moore Reservoirs. If you would like to fish a river, check out the Connecticut. It remains cool even in hot weather. These spots also provide some swimming opportunities if you would like to take a dip yourself. -- Dianne Timmins, Fisheries Biologist
LAKES REGION/WHITE MOUNAINS:
It looks like summer doesn't want to end here in the lakes region. Temperatures have soared back into the 90's and there is not any rain on the horizon, short of a parting blow by hurricane Earl. The big lake temps are currently hovering in the low 70's. A recent trolling excursion on Lake Winnisquam with fellow biologist Ben Nugent turned up several lake trout in the 17-19 inch range, and a fat rainbow trout. Salmon seem pretty rare on Winnisquam, I really don't know why, as the lake has been stocked continuously with approximately 2,000 yearling salmon each year. I did notice several bait pods on the upper (north) end of the lake, lending some hope that the smelt population is on the rebound. I noticed a heavy hatch of flying ants on the lake that morning; early risers should anticipate that the rainbows will begin to gorge on these ants. Trolling for salmon and lake and rainbow trout is about the only show in town; they are still about 30-35 feet down, 5-6 colors of lead core line. We used small single hook streamer flies and a small DB smelt for patterns. The smelt survey is on-going; we should wrap up Winnipesaukee in a couple nights. We are finding smelt pretty much everywhere. Last night, we worked out in the "Broads" between the Gilford and Tuftonboro shores. It was very encouraging to see a good number of older-aged smelt in the trawl sample. Only one month left to salmon season...get out there and enjoy, I'm sure we will have a long winter! -- Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
SEACOAST NEW HAMPSHIRE:
As I said last week, with the storm going through, things definitely changed. The effects of the unsettled sea were apparent this week when we went diving in Gosport Harbor on Monday for Fish and Game. We were expecting good visibility and sandy bottom -- this is the Shoals after all. Well, what we got was a mucky bottom that was easily stirred up, making visibility fairly low. We did see a few skates and plenty of lobster though! The changing seas also stirred up some bluefish this weekend. The headboat companies reported a banner day, and I talked with a few anglers on Saturday who had caught them down in the Hampton area as well, so it wasn’t just the professionals that were able to find them! One important tip I got from successful striper fishermen was to get out there early. When I say early, I mean get out before sunrise. Take your time and work your way seaward; stripers' location will move with the tide and the time of day. Poke around in all of the coves, eddies, and anywhere you find a rock pile for them to lurk behind. Things seem to be going well at the moment so let’s all hope that Earl doesn’t cause things to do a 180 on us! -- Rebecca Heuss, Marine Biologist
SOUTHEAST N.H./MERRIMACK VALLEY:
If climate change predictions are correct for the Northeast, then we may have to get used to the weather that we have seen so far this year. Most models predict more intense and more frequent rain events in the winter and spring, followed by long periods of summer drought. This year, we saw three flooding rains in early spring, and now we are enduring yet another heat wave. Anglers familiar with certain rivers, lakes or ponds have been commenting on how low the water is this summer. Summer can be a stressful time for fish, especially during prolonged periods without rain. High water temperatures, low flows, and low oxygen levels make life difficult during the hot months of summer in rivers and streams throughout the state. We experienced the effects of these low flows first hand a few weeks ago, during our electrofishing surveys on the Lamprey River. Thousands of common shiners, fallfish, longnose dace, and young smallmouth bass were trapped in pools, barely connected by a trickle. Without the ability to move, these fish are at the mercy, not only of the sun, but also of predators like mink and blue heron. While there is not much we can do about the weather, there are things we can do to help maintain healthy summer flows in our rivers. Water withdrawals for irrigation, drinking water, and other uses can impact aquatic species when too much water is removed during periods of low flow. The Ipswich River, in Massachusetts, has actually been known to dry up in the summer due to the over use of water. There is a need to support emerging legislation in New Hampshire that will protect instream flows. At the local level, you can support changes in zoning that protect riparian zones along rivers and streams, reduce the total amount of impervious surfaces like large parking lots, and encourage stormwater management that allows water to filter back into the ground instead of running directly into a river or stream. These practices will help precipitation absorb into the ground and restore groundwater, which ultimately maintains summer river flows, rather than flow as runoff directly into rivers and streams, which worsens flooding. Unlike the more developed areas of southern New England, where instream flows are already a chronic problem, New Hampshire has a chance to be proactive on this issue. If we take steps to protect instream flows now, then we can maintain healthy water levels in our rivers and streams and help prevent that prime spring fishing season from shrinking for future generations. Learn more at the NH Department of Environmental Services Instream Flow Protection Pilot Program webpage: http://des.nh.gov/organization/divisions/water/wmb/rivers/instream/index.htm -- Matt Carpenter, Fisheries Biologist
MONADNOCK/UPPER VALLEY:
Over the next few weeks, the Warmwater Fisheries Program will conduct surveys of young-of-the-year black bass (largemouth and smallmouth bass) in Lake Winnipesaukee, Big Squam Lake and the Connecticut River. These surveys are performed annually using our electrofishing boat. During these surveys, shorelines are sampled and all young-of-the-year bass are captured. Landmarks and GPS coordinates are used to ensure that the same area of shoreline is sampled each year. All captured bass are identified as to species, weighed, measured, and released. Scales are taken on larger fish in order to later age the fish to determine if it was a young-of-the-year or an age-1. The objectives of these surveys are to determine: 1) fish size; 2) relative abundance (# fish captured per hour of sampling); 3) to examine relative abundance by species among years; 4) to compare size by species among years; and 5) to compare size between species among years. These surveys are important because black bass populations in the state are managed solely by natural reproduction, and size of young-of-the-year bass during their first fall can be an important factor in their over-winter survival. Monitoring young-of-the-year bass size and catch rates allows us to gauge potential year-class strength and can provide for early detection of any needed management options. -- Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program:
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
NH WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – August 26, 2010
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
Stocking report: Stocking is done for the season. Previous reports at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
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><> North Country
The leaves are beginning to change in Coos County, days are getting shorter, and successful fishermen are again changing their approach. Fly anglers are noticing subtle differences in the insect hatches on their favorite waterbodies. In August, I always enjoy fishing large terrestrial flies like grasshoppers and flying ants. Lately, they have not been as successful. I've seen very small mayflies and stoneflies in dark greens and browns. After a whole summer of feeding on them, most fish are very wary and it takes a perfect cast to fool them. I also like to fish a lot of streamers. After an entire growing season, those fish born in the spring are reaching a size where larger fish are noticing them as a food source. An overlooked streamer is the squirrel-tail, which mimics all kinds of minnows - especially dace. My favorite standby streamer is the Black Ghost or the Coachman. When fish are rising to flies that I can't see or identify, I will usually cast a very small (#24) Griffiths Gnat. I've landed some very large fish on these and other tiny flies. When darkness approaches and visibility decreases, I go to a special fly box filled with chartreuse Wulffs that make a strike easy to see. Although temperatures are decreasing there still exists a "heat-of-the-day" fishery where fish seem to go into a period of inactivity. At these times, I flip bead-headed nymphs into fast water. For the past few seasons, I've been using a strike indicator to help notice hits. My favorite bead-headed flies include hare's ears, pheasant tails, and prince nymphs. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
Well, we have finally received a much-needed soaking rain here in the Lakes Region! We are now in the third day of a hard east/northeast wind, which is not the best weather to go trolling on our big lakes! Actually, surface temps have dropped, and this may trigger landlocked salmon to head "shoreward." I have noticed a trend the last few years where adult landlocked salmon can be seen in rather shallow water, running along sandy/gravel shorelines, as early as the first week of September! These salmon can be seen leaping out of the water, several feet into the air, and then crashing back into the water, only to repeat this tactic along the shoreline. All I can figure, is this is a pre-spawn activity, enjoyed by the salmon, as part of their spawning ritual. I have seen schools of these fish along the shorelines, and have successfully fly-casted to them with small streamers - bright colors are best. Remember, not all salmon partake of this activity, so don't completely give up on off-shore trolling. Also, early morning anglers on Lake Winnipesaukee may encounter salmon slashing schools of smelt off of Welch, Diamond and Rattlesnake islands as surface waters cool. This is an exciting time for anglers, as these fish have no respect for boaters – I’ve had them 5 feet from my boat during these times! Lake trout are "setting up" at this time of year, so try some vertical jigging on those calm mornings. Small jigs, tipped with plastic grubs, fished over or near suspended bait pods, will often have lake trout launching up from the depths after these targets. Use your electronics to locate bait pods (suspended are the best) as they’re being attacked by trout. As always, remember you are angling for coldwater fish, try to minimize fight time, and decide quickly to harvest or release fish. The southern White Mountains reveal splashes of color already, it makes me yearn to grab a fly rod and pursue the most beautiful trout, the squaretail! With some more rain, look for remote ponds to be productive. I know I will be fishing the same mountain streams after things quiet down up north, before the foliage season peaks. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
I haven’t been able to bass fish for a couple weeks but managed to get out on Saturday for most of the day with a co-worker. I had a plan going into the day as I have noticed that the majority of the time two bass anglers are in a boat together, both tend to cast in the same direction. For example, both anglers will concentrate on the shoreline or emergent vegetation or a rocky point or shoal. This weekend, we took the opposite approach. I positioned the boat within casting distance of the shoreline and one of us would cast to shore and the other would cast in the opposite direction towards deeper water. This allowed us to cover more water, find fish faster, and made it so the person fishing in the back of the boat was not casting into areas that the front angler had already fished. Another strategy we used this weekend was to throw lures to places where you wouldn’t normally fish them. For example, we threw jigs and topwaters to deeper water and casted drop-shots and small crankbaits towards shore. It is important to remember that most anglers are creatures of habit and fish can become conditioned and wary of the same old lures. While a bass that frequents a particular log on a shoreline will likely see hundreds of jigs during a summer, it is likely that this same fish has not seen many drop-shot rigs or tiny crankbaits and that might be just the advantage you need. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Southeastern New Hampshire has several multi-tiered fisheries that may be worth a try at the tail end of the summer. These waterbodies have fishable populations of both stocked trout and warmwater fish species and give the angler an opportunity to completely change tactics if things are working too slowly. Some of my recommendations are Massabesic Lake, Bow Lake, Lucas Pond, Hothole Pond, the Suncook Lakes, Pleasant Lake, and Tower Hill Pond. The accessibility of these waterbodies can vary (i.e. Lucas Pond has a no motor restriction and Tower Hill Pond is only accessible by walking in). Some of these waterbodies can be sleepers, particularly when it comes to warmwater species in the lakes and ponds more well known for their trout fishing. Multi-species rivers that I would recommend are the Cocheco River, Lamprey River, Exeter River, and Merrimack River. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
The blues are still here so they must not have read my last report or they would have disappeared for sure! These are nice sized fish, too, not the little snappers you can find in the rivers. Unfortunately we still don’t have any reports of them coming in close enough for you shore fishermen out there, but keep trying, it’s bound to happen one of these days. The most striper action lately has been down in the Hampton area, the river and harbor down there have been producing lots of schoolies and some nice keepers as well. Groundfishing has stayed pretty good, some days slower than others, but overall everyone is doing well out there. Of course it doesn’t really matter what I write because by the time this comes out that storm front will have passed through and everything will change!
These cool nights may have fooled you but there is still plenty of summer left and lots of fishing opportunities on NH’s coast! – Rebecca Heuss, Marine Biologist
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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NH WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – August 5, 2010
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
Stocking report: Stocking is done for the season. Previous reports at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
><> North Country As New Hampshire anglers watch the calendar turn to August, some serious adjustments are made in order to be successful. If you are a trout fisherman, middle to late summer is when your skills and talents are really put to the test. Water temperatures have been at levels that make coldwater fish seem to disappear. One of the greatest challenges to fishing at any time of the year is finding fish and predicting their movements. Preferred habitat now is deep, well-oxygenated, and cool water. Finding all three is rare, so fish will settle for one or two of these refugia. Once these areas have been identified, you may have to employ additional tactics like fishing early in the morning or at dusk. To complicate matters even further, fish like trout and salmon will decrease their energy expenditures when they are under stressful conditions. A brook trout, for example, will be less likely to aggressively rise for food in these warm water months. If you hope to fool one with a delicate, lifelike presentation, you could be doing battle with a fish who may not even want to feed. Good luck. August is still one of the best months to fish in Northern New Hampshire. They daylight is still quite lengthy and conditions on the water can be very comfortable for fishermen. If the deerflies don't carry you away, you can spend an entire weekend trying to figure out where fish are and, more importantly, where they are not. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
Sorry folks, no report this week but I’ll be back next week. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
Night sampling has been keeping me busy and away from fishing for the past few weeks, but reports I have received at the office from anglers have been promising. Rainbow trout are still being caught with regularity in Spofford Lake (Chesterfield; some up to 22”), Swanzey Lake (Swanzey), and Silver Lake (Harrisville). I have also heard of some very nice landlocked salmon and lake trout being caught at Nubanusit Lake (Hancock/Nelson). Bass anglers have been having a banner summer in southwestern NH. Reports of nice largemouth have come in from Highland Lake (Stoddard), the Connecticut River (Hinsdale), Warren Lake (Alstead), Crescent Lake (Acworth), and Laurel Lake (Fitzwilliam). For smallmouths, I would try Swanzey Lake (Swanzey), Dublin Lake (Dublin), Stone Pond (Marlborough), and the Connecticut River (Chesterfield/Westmoreland). If the bass aren’t biting in the shallows, try the deeper water off of reefs, deep shorelines, and secondary points. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
While there are many public boat ramps and shoreline access points for saltwater fishing, shoreline fishing opportunities on freshwater can be difficult to find in New Hampshire. Most shorelines are privately owned and access to many lakes and ponds is limited. However, if you look hard enough you can find some excellent fishing spots in southeastern New Hampshire. Swains Lake, in Barrington, can be accessed along France Road. The two small bridges are good places to cast for largemouth bass and yellow perch. The Cocheco River is known for its brown trout. It can be accessed, at a number of points, by an unpaved road that runs along the left side of the river looking downstream from the Watson Road Dam in Rochester. The Cocheco River is one of three rivers in southeastern New Hampshire that have extended catch and release seasons for trout. The other two are the Lamprey River, downstream of the Wiswall Dam to the first Railroad trestle downstream of Packers Falls, and the Isinglass River, from the Route 125 bridge to its confluence with the Cocheco River. More warm water fishing (for bass, pickerel, and sunfish) can be found on the section of the Isinglass River that parallels Route 126 and eventually crosses under Route 202 in Barrington. The black crappie in the lower Lamprey River are best approached through the ice, or by canoe, but there is shoreline access along the back side of a graveyard in Newmarket, near the confluence with the Piscassic River. If you would prefer a little peace and quiet, Northwood Meadows State Park contains a small pond with bass fishing and trout in season. Although it is not technically a shoreline access site, the UNH Rec Center on Mendums Pond, off of Hall Road in Barrington, has very reasonable rates for canoe/kayak rentals, which provide access to a smallmouth bass population that gets relatively little fishing pressure. I could go on, but the best way to find new shoreline fishing opportunities is to go for a drive. With respect for private property and careful attention to "no trespassing" signs, check all the places where a road crosses a river or runs along the shoreline of a lake or pond. With patience you might stumble onto a new fishing spot that is too good to share. – Matt Carpenter, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
Well, of course the day that I write there are bluefish is the day they disappear. One of the headboat companies reported hooking into a school of them last week, but we have not heard a thing of them since. Striper fishing hasn’t been too bad, still most of the catching has been out in the ocean, not much going on in the rivers. One thing of note on the groundfishing front this week, a lot of white hake (a member of the cod family) was brought in over the weekend. The time is approaching again with incoming tide happening at dawn and dusk, check those tide tables and get out fishing, don’t let the summer disappear without visiting the coast! – Rebecca Heuss, Marine Biologist
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
NH WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – July 22, 2010
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
Stocking report: Stocking is done for the season. Previous reports at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
><> North Country
Sorry folks, no report from the North Country this week. We’ll be back next week! –Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region/White Mountains
This is beginning to look like the summer to break all heat wave records. Luckily, our big lakes stratify and are able to support our various coldwater species, i.e., landlocked salmon, rainbow and lake trout (and don't forget the smelt, without which we would have no coldwater fisheries!). Deep-water trolling is best accomplished through the use of downriggers, although lead-core line will get you down to the approximate depths also. Trolling small, single-hook streamer flies, in a myriad of patterns, will do the trick. For even more excitement, try pinching down the barb on your flies; this may lead to the loss of some fish, but will allow a quicker release at the boat. Reports from Winnipesaukee reveal that some fine 3 year-old landlocked salmon are being taken at depths approaching 30-40 feet. Also, lake trout seem to be "on the bite," just a little deeper, near bottom structure. Hexagenia (mayfly) hatches are still evident, as I have seen the empty nymphal cases floating in Lake Winnisquam. Early morning anglers should be able to attract rainbow trout and possibly salmon at first light with lighter lines near the surface, as these fish gorge on mayflies. As always, remember that as you bring these fish up from colder waters, they will be stressed and every precaution in handling should be exercised! My favorite hot-weather fisheries are still going strong, brookies in our mountain streams and ponds. It seems lately that we have been receiving more thundershowers; this is much needed to keep these fisheries afloat. –Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
In the past, I have generally stayed away from thick aquatic vegetation while bass fishing. It wasn’t that I didn’t realize warmwater fish species are attracted to vegetation because it provides shade, oxygen, food, and a place to ambush prey from, I just didn’t feel like dealing with all the snags and wasted time removing vegetation from my lure, as well as the fish I continually seemed to lose once hooked. That all changed a few years ago when I started using some different lures and leaning more towards the “superlines.” These superlines (Berkley Fireline and Stren Microfuse are two of those available) are fantastic for fishing in vegetation as they are incredibly strong, don’t stretch, have a thin diameter relative to the same pound test in monofilament, and cut through vegetation very easily when snagged or when fighting a fish. Any superlines in 15-20 lb. test should do the job, although I know some anglers that use up to 50 lb. test when fishing in thick vegetation. For bass fishing in vegetation, I like to use a weedless frog or 5-6” plastic worm or senko-style lure. Frogs that I have had good luck with include the SPRO Dean Rojas Bronzeye Frog and the Tru-Tungsten Mad Maxx Frog. These baits cost about $9 apiece and less expensive Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops name-brands are also available and work well. These lures are virtually snag-proof, and you can cast them a long way. Either reel them in a steady fashion or alternate between fast reels and stops. To fish a plastic worm or senko-style lure, I simply thread it onto a hook so that the lure covers the straight part of the hook, making sure the lure sits straight when I am done. I use a weedless hook such as those available from Eagle Claw in a size 1/0. By keeping your rod tip high and reeling at a moderate pace, the worm will swim across the surface of the water and over and around vegetation. A good trick with this technique is to stop reeling as the bait reaches any open spot in the vegetation and let it sink. Often, a bass that has been following the lure will take that opportunity to strike. –Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Fish community surveys are continuing in the Lamprey Watershed with an emphasis on identifying self-sustaining brook trout populations. Although the majority of the watershed tends to be warmer wetland streams, some new populations of wild brook trout have been documented. These streams appear to have the ability to stay cooler from groundwater (springs) entering them. Water temperatures at these streams have been close to 20 degrees cooler. Additionally, we spent a day last week looking at fish communities in the Winnicut River watershed. This information will likely help prioritize and guide restoration projects in the future, as much of this watershed is now free-flowing and a variety of different diadromous species (those that migrate between fresh and salt waters) have access to the watershed. American eels, redfin pickerel, and wild brook trout are some of the species we captured. These species are designated “species of concern” in New Hampshire's Wildlife Action Plan. –Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
What a week for fishing! Anglers are doing well with just about everything lately. Mackerel are back in force and with them came the stripers. Most of the reports coming in are from outside of the harbors, not much action on shore recently. While performing Fish and Game’s juvenile lobster SCUBA survey in the Piscataqua River this past week we were approached by some surfacing stripers, no doubt looking for a lobster snack. It’s nice to know they’re around, even if lobster is expensive bait! These stripers were seen on an incoming tide in Sprague Cove, the first cove downstream of Dover Point on the NH side. The groundfishing has been steady out at Jeffrey’s Ledge, unfortunately they’ve been catching a similar number of dogfish, but if you are willing to fight with the dogs it is well worth the effort. The most common question around the coast these days: Are the blues in yet? We are still getting a few reports of them from our south but have yet to see them in NH waters. –Rebecca Heuss, Marine Biologist
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT – June 10, 2010
Stocking report 6/1 – 6/4: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
><> North Country
Recent heavy storms in northern NH have revitalized trout fishing in many areas. Water temperatures have dropped and flows have increased. These conditions have enabled Fish and Game personnel to not only follow the stocking schedule but actually increase numbers where possible. Surplus fish are finding homes throughout the state. – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region It seems like our long, dry spell has ended with fronts passing through every couple of days with showers and some pretty wild thunderstorms to boot! These rains were very much needed as small brooks and streams had reached low water conditions early in the season. Lake temperature is now in the high 60s (68 degrees on Winni) and bass nesting has pretty much ended. Look for adult bass roaming the shorelines, as the bass fry (jet black in color) swarm the shores looking for places to hide. This is my favorite time to fish for bass with small panfish poppers. I have caught bass during the middle of the day over rocky shoals with my fly rod and poppers. This is great sport as the bass rise up to smash the popper on the surface!
As the school year ends, it is time to take the kids fishing, and what better species to seek than our ubiquitous sunfish! Sunfish nest after the bass, so look along the shorelines for their nest depressions and drop a small fly or tiny panfish popper over their heads and watch the reaction! Sunfish populations can easily overpopulate small ponds and even some larger waterbodies, therefore, they are a great species to target with the younger set. This a great way to introduce kids to the sport of fly-fishing. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
The smallmouths haven’t gone deep yet. A recent outing to Swanzey Lake in Swanzey and Nubanusit Lake in Hancock/Nelson produced many nice smallmouths. Fish were caught in three to eight feet of water on shaky jig heads and tubes. The fish were mainly along the edges of dropoffs and anyplace there were rocks. The key was definitely rocks; where there were no rocks, there were no fish. The stocking trucks are still rolling out of the Milford Hatchery. Everything has been stocked at least once this spring and now the hatchery is putting out surplus rainbows. Trout fishing should continue to be good with the much needed rain from last weekend and cooler temperatures this week. – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Last week, NH Fish and Game partnered with staff from the Anheuser Busch Facility in Merrimack, the city of Manchester (Department of Public Works and the Urban Pond Restoration Program), the Manchester Fly Fishing Association, Merrimack River Valley Trout Unlimited, NH Department of Environmental Services, NH Rivers Council, and several other volunteers and local businesses to perform a stream and pond litter pickup in Manchester. The stream is located on the western side of the city and despite being seated in a densely developed urban landscape, has a robust wild brook trout population. It is expected that this will be the first step of many to ensure that this species, so important to our heritage and legacy, is able to remain present in our largest city. Additional restoration activities and potential funding sources will soon be prioritized and identified. In three hours, 27 tires, over 25 full contractor trash bags, 3 bicycles, a car gas tank, a home heating oil tank, 2 shopping carts, 2 computers, a television, and close to a ton of rusted metal items were gathered. In the end, we essentially found everything but the kitchen sink...wait a minute, we also found a sink. As interest for this project continues to grow, it is our hope that those who litter develop an understanding of the value of aquatic systems...even in an urban environment. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
So I hope I am not the only one that read my fishing report last week, but I took my own advice and went to Rye Harbor on Sunday. The weather was unarguably wet and cold, but the winter flounder fishing was hot! A friend and I fished for about 3 ½ hours Sunday morning and never left the harbor, but we managed to land 21 winter flounder, only one of which was under the minimum size limit of 12 inches. We took home 14 fish between the two of us, with the biggest at 19 inches, a few over 18, the rest between 15 and 17, and they were a nice rewarding dinner for enduring the rain.
Our staff in the field, speaking with anglers all along the coast and at boat ramps, say they’ve seen the striped bass catch picking up, primarily in the Piscataqua River and Great Bay, and the mackerel are still available for bait.
Finally, the “Mudhole” is still providing giant cod again this year, but it’s a long cast from shore -- so use the boat, go with a friend, or get on a charter or headboat before it slows down. – Kevin Sullivan, Marine Biologist
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
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N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT - May 27, 2010
NH Natural Leaders – Final reminder! JUNE 1 deadline for NH teens (ages 14-17) to apply for the NH Natural Leaders program. Scholarships available. Please spread the word! See http://www.wildnh.com/naturalleaders.
Stocking report 5/17 – 5/21: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
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><> North Country
Get ready. Spring is about to turn into summer and freshwater fishing in New Hampshire is about to get exciting. Trout ponds have been stocked often and early and, as insects react to warming air and water temperatures, fish respond by feeding very heavily. No one can predict what the summer will be like, but if we see warm, dry conditions, trout fishing won’t get any better than it is now. Bass are beginning to spawn and visit shallow water. They are also driven by the warming water and an increased metabolism to feed, feed, feed! Many times, predicting fish behavior is the key to successful angling. Right now, warmwater fish are following predictable patterns and offer an awesome fishing opportunity. – Andy Schafermeyer, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region
Water temps are soaring...big lake temps are now in the mid 60s, and bass are on the nests. A recent netting foray to Big Squam Lake revealed that some bass eggs have already hatched as schools of bass fry were observed along the shorelines. Trout pond fishing is still hot; try fishing in the evening from 6:00 to dark, that’s when the fly hatches (mayflies) will peak. Now is an excellent time to catch a mess of horned pout (bullheads) for a delicious meal. Any soft-bottomed cove in any lakes region water has pout. Squam has some nice ones -- we netted bullheads up to a foot long, although some prefer younger fish for a meal. Silver Lake, Tilton/Lochmere has excellent shoreline fishing for pout. Bullheads are not fussy, a generous nightcrawler fished on bottom at night will do the trick. Just be careful of the dorsal and pectoral spines, they can inflict a painful wound! – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
The phone always seems to be ringing off the hook at the regional office in Keene this time of year. Anglers want to know where the hot spots are and what to use to tempt their respective species of choice to bite. An interesting phenomenon that always presents itself is the difference in success rates among anglers. In a single week, I might get calls or emails from three different anglers that have all fished the same water with drastically different results. For example, last week it was trout anglers calling about the Souhegan River. One angler was frustrated after a couple days on the water without so much as a strike and seemingly no sign of trout activity, while the other angler was thrilled with his catch rates and the size of trout he was catching. The two anglers were fishing in the same general area of the river and both using fly tackle. After offering condolences/suggestions and congratulations to the respective callers, I began to think about the disparity between the two callers. The number of trout stocked into a waterbody each year does not typically change, and stocking location and timing generally remain consistent (disclaimers to this are extreme environmental conditions such as floods and/or emergencies that the Conservation Officer must respond to such as Search and Rescue events). It is always frustrating to not catch fish or to feel that the fish are not there; believe me, I have been there plenty of times myself. However, I always try to remind myself that the opportunities are there and that the next fishing trip might be the one where everything comes together perfectly. If you find yourself having a fruitless day, don't despair. It is likely the fish are there but perhaps weather conditions are wrong, the fish are not on the feed, you are in the wrong location, or you are using the wrong bait/lure/fly. Don't hesitate to call your regional Fish and Game office with your questions or concerns. We can offer you suggestions on where to go and what to use for tackle, but we can't make the fish bite! – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Anglers have been reporting good days at several of southeastern New Hampshire's lakes, ponds, and rivers. Several trout indicative of holdovers have been reported in Pleasant Lake (Deerfield), Stonehouse Pond (Barrington), and the Cocheco River (Dover). Anglers targeting bass have also noted both largemouth and smallmouth bass beginning to occupy early summer habitats. The recent decrease in flow in the local rivers and streams and high jumps in temperatures are beginning to be a concern. Fish kills, primarily of sunfish species, have been reported in some smaller, shallower ponds throughout this region. The examination of collected specimens indicate high algal counts and weakened immune systems associated with spawning and decreases in oxygen from spikes in water temperature. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
We were out on the Piscataqua River for most of the day yesterday during our SCUBA program for lobster monitoring. We observed several large groups of birds (terns and gulls) working the bait hard. The largest bird activity was near Henderson Point on the Kittery Side of the river near the old Navy Prison, but other flurries of activity were near the mouth of the harbor at the Coast Guard Station and by Pepperel Cove. We couldn’t get close enough to see the bait, but at nearly this time last year there were a large number of juvenile sea herring in the river, so hopefully this is a repeat. As any good coastal fisherman is likely to say, “FOLLOW THE BIRDS!” When bait are balled up in schools tight enough for terns to divebomb them, there are no doubt stripers below. We have measured some keeper-sized striped bass from the Great Bay this week, as well as some landed in Exeter near the boat ramp downtown.
The winter flounder season is open again. As always, I strongly suggest Rye Harbor for shore anglers targeting winter flounder, and Great Boars Head for those with access to a boat. – Kevin Sullivan, Marine Biologist
><> Federal Aid: A User-Pay, User-Benefit Program
Researching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/SFWR_program/sfwr_program.htm.
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N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT - May 20, 2010
NH Natural Leaders – Deadline extended to JUNE 1!: Do you know a NH teen ages 14-17 who is interested in a career in natural resources? ...Wants to make a difference for the environment? ...Would like to hike, camp, canoe and plan a conservation project for their community this summer? Please tell him or her about NH Natural Leaders! Applications due June 1. Scholarships available. See http://www.wildnh.com/naturalleaders
Stocking report 5/10 – 5/14: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
Saltwater Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
><> North Country
So the sun has finally kissed the North Country. The weekend started out cool but the spring sun is really efficient and by early afternoon water temperatures are rising into the 50s. Just enough to get the suckers moving to spawn and the brookies are hot on their tails. Umbagog has been fishing fantastically, with some large smallmouth bass being caught. These fish should be spawning now, so fishing may slow down a touch. Don’t forget, harvest is by artificial lure or fly only until June 20 on this interstate lake. The warm weather doesn’t take long to heat up the tannic rivers of the North Country, so get out there and fish! – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region
Our up and down spring weather continues, two to three days of blustery northwest winds followed by showers and southeast to east winds. As one would expect, this pattern has raised havoc with bass spawning this spring. Look for nesting to really commence this week as the weather pattern (seems?) to quiet down. Remember, bass are protected in NH from May 15 to June 15, with a strict catch and release policy, artificial baits only. Try deeper water drop-offs for cruising bass that may have not nested. Landlocked salmon are still pretty close to the top, we caught several with 2-3 colors of lead core in Winnipesaukee recently on trolled live shiners, lip-hooked. This technique, with a single, fine wire hook, resulted in the easy unhooking of salmon. Of the two fish harvested, one was feeding heavily on smelt. Also, some very nice lake trout have appeared, up to eight pounds in size. You will find the lakers deeper, try 40-60 feet down, in water 50-70 feet in depth. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
It’s one of my favorite times of year -- time to leave the boat at home and do some walking along the banks of tributaries that enter the Connecticut River while casting for smallmouth bass and walleye. Depending on your location, the walleyes are already there and the smallmouths should soon follow. I have found that walleye typically enter these tributaries a month or so after they spawn and that smallmouth will either be there in order to find suitable spawning substrate or to “recover” and fill their bellies after the spawn. Whatever the reason for their presence, the underlying theme here is an opportunity for some fantastic fishing from shore... the kind that would make any kid’s eyes widen, so don’t forget to bring them. If the tributary you wish to fish has a dam close (within 5 miles) to the river mouth, I would start there. If there is no dam on the lower portions of the tributary, I would suggest starting at the mouth and fishing upriver. Lures of choice include soft jerkbaits on an unweighted hook, poppers, shallow running hard jerkbaits, and 4” curly tailed grubs on a 1/8 or ¼ ounce jig head. I typically cast toward the far shoreline and then let the current do the work while slowly working the lure back towards you. Fly anglers can also have a blast with this type of fishery using weighted wooly buggers, muddler minnows and deer hair poppers. These fish are typically hungry and not particularly picky, so if you don’t get a strike with 5-10 minutes, start moving until you find them. – Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
We've received reports of broodstock Atlantic salmon anglers catching fish primarily at Hooksett and Sewalls Falls (Concord) in the Merrimack River as well as the Pemigewasset River along Coolidge Woods Road (New Hampton). These fish are spreading out fast. One fish has already been captured in Lawrence, Massachusetts -- it migrated this far in less than two weeks. Anglers targeting warmwater species will start to find aquatic vegetation blooming and growing quickly. Don't overlook these areas. Vegetation provides essential cover with young-of-the-year bass, perch, crappie, shiners, etc. With a high concentration of these small fish, the predator fish don't stray too far. Finally, anglers who target some of the larger lakes in southeastern New Hampshire may see some increased catch rates real soon. A hatchery surplus means a big bump to the stocking rates of rainbow trout in at least two waterbodies. I would recommend fishing Massabesic and Bow lakes. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
The reports of stripers in New Hampshire have started to become more frequent. I was told that a few anglers were catching striped bass at Henry Law Park in Dover. The groundfish have started to come closer to shore and the party/charter boats are doing very well, already starting half-day trips. The near-shore trips south of Hampton are catching a surprising number of redfish along with keeper-sized cod. The “fishermen migration” is already becoming apparent, with boats all begin to head for the “mudhole,” where large congregations of giant cod occur near the end of this month. As a note, the winter flounder fishing season has a short closure this year and cannot be taken between May 15 and May 24. There is also a closure for Atlantic wolffish in federal waters. – Kevin Sullivan, Marine Biologist
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Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT - May 13, 2010
NH NATURAL LEADERS – Deadline extended to JUNE 1!: Do you know a NH teen ages 14-17 who is interested in a career in natural resources? ...Wants to make a difference for the environment? ...Would like to hike, camp, canoe and plan a conservation project for their community this summer? Please tell him or her about NH Natural Leaders! Applications due June 1. Scholarships available. See http://www.wildnh.com/naturalleaders
STOCKING REPORT 5/3 – 5/7: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
Find us on FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame
SALTWATER Angler Registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
><> North Country
What a crazy spring it has been. We have experienced summer and winter weather all during the last two weeks. Twelve inches of snow one day and 70 degrees the next. The hatches have been on and off, with blue-winged olives hatching during a snow flurry. That was a sight! All in all, the water temperatures are still in the forties and trout fishing remains slow. There have been some salmon caught in the Connecticut Lakes, so don’t shut the door on us yet - grab your rod and head north for a jumper or two! – Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region
The last week has been a roller-coaster ride in the Lakes Region. Cold overnight temperatures in the 20s have dropped water temps into the upper 40s again. Bass spawning has seen fits and starts this season, and now bass have moved back off the nest sites. Look for bass to cruise the flats once again as soon as temperatures stabilize. (A reminder that May 15 – June 15 is catch-and-release only for bass.) Trout fishing is the name of the game now, with great insect hatches (mayflies have appeared), look for pond fishing to be excellent now. Large lake rainbows are still cruising the shorelines of Winnisquam, Newfound and Winnipesaukee. Salmon fishing continues to be excellent with average fish of 19” and 2.5-2.75 lbs. – Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
The Contoocook River is a great place to fish for both cold and warmwater fish. A recent paddle on a short section of the river upstream of Powder Mill Pond made for an awesome late afternoon trip. Using light spinning gear and in-line spinners for hardware, we managed to catch five different fish species in just a few hours. We caught a bunch of smallmouth bass and yellow perch, along with a brown trout, brook trout, and a couple of fallfish. This river gets pretty warm in the summer, so now is the time to go after trout. Fish and Game stocks the Contoocook River with thousands of trout from Peterborough to Henniker each year and the stocking trucks have been very busy this spring. Get out and enjoy what these small New Hampshire rivers have to offer this spring. – Jason Carrier, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
There are some good activities for the whole family this weekend in southeastern New Hampshire. The annual Cocheco Field Day and River Cleanup Event will be held Saturday May 15 in Dover. The event begins at the lower lot of Measured Progress (off of Sixth Street) and goes from 10am to 2pm. Participants will learn about the effort to restore public access and maintain good water quality, as well as have the opportunity to help clean this scenic river. Additionally, there are several kids’ fishing derbies scheduled for southern New Hampshire this weekend; see http://www.wildnh.com/Fishing/fish_tournament_kids.htm. – Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast Area
The first reports of stripers in New Hampshire have begun surfacing. I was told that a few anglers were catching ‘schoolie’ sized striped bass in Hampton Harbor, so it looks like they are starting to come a little bit farther north than the Merrimack. In a conversation this morning, I was told that someone encountered a striped bass in the Great Bay already this year as well, so hopefully it will be heating up in the coming weeks!
As a note, the winter flounder fishing season has a short closure this year; this species may not be taken between May 15 and May 24. – Kevin Sullivan, Marine Biologist
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> * * * * * * * N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT - April 22, 2010
Welcome to a new season of the NH Weekly Fishing Report!
If you’re new to the list, this is the first weekly fishing report for 2010. Each week from now through September, we’ll bring you fishing news and information from our regional fisheries staff, along with a link to the most current stocking report (during stocking season). If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.fishnh.com/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.
Here’s the stocking report for April 12-16: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm And guess what? NH Fish and Game’s now on Facebook! Link up today at http://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame. ***If you’d rather get this fishing report on Facebook than by e-mail, fan or “like” us on Facebook, and click through the link at the bottom of this message to “uncheck” your subscription to the e-mail fishing report.
Happy Earth Day, and best wishes for an excellent season!
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><> North Country
We have been sampling pike out of Jericho and Partridge Lakes and they have been pretty sly. Capture rates have been low and the quick snowmelt has us wondering if we missed the spawn. We saw a huge one swirl by the net opening at Jericho and unfortunately our timing on the net adjustment wasn’t good since we scared him out of the net. DARN!!!! But at least we know they are out there. Last weekend’s snow/rain event is keeping brook and river temperatures low and water levels elevated, which is good for the trout stocking. It helps to spread the fish out. Fish have also been stocked earlier in some spots, allowing them more time to acclimate to their new environment. This helps all of you wild trout seekers. Temperatures in the rivers up north are still in the low 40s, but flows are receding and fish are hungry, so head out this weekend and try your luck. --Dianne Timmins, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Lakes Region
Lake temperatures are rapidly warming up into the upper 40s and lower 50s. Smallmouth bass are cruising the shorelines and are becoming more active. Look for the white perch spawn to begin within 3 or 4 days at the usual spots -- Winnipesaukee River, Laconia, Smith River, Wolfeboro, and the Melvin River, Tuftonboro. Trout ponds open on the 24th (Saturday) and insect hatches are way ahead of last year. Some real nice rainbows are being caught in high current areas of Winnipesaukee, check out Paugus Bay. --Don Miller, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Monadnock/Upper Valley
Fishing on the Connecticut River is heating up fast. Walleye have been biting below the dams and river mouths for the past month and will continue for about another month. The yellow perch have spawned in most southern NH setbacks and the largemouth bass and black crappie are starting to bite well in the coves and backwaters. --Gabe Gries, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Southeast NH/Merrimack Valley
Trout anglers should be very satisfied when the reel in a trout at one of the southeastern designated trout ponds (these waterbodies open on Saturday, April 24). Fish are larger than previous years as indicated by recent sample counts. Yearling brook trout and brown trout will be around 11 inches and about half a pound while yearling rainbow trout will be about 12 inches and average close to a pound apiece. Some of the stocked three-year-old brook trout will be over 17 inches and 2 pounds. Anglers pursuing other species should find bass, crappie, and panfish starting to become real active now. Try fishing shallow areas in dense vegetation. --Ben Nugent, Regional Fisheries Biologist
><> Seacoast
The recreational groundfishing season has begun in New Hampshire. Due to a delayed start of the federal Atlantic Cod season (April 16th this year), many anglers have been targeting and successfully landing large catches of haddock but have had to reluctantly release those keeper-sized cod with a frown on their face. Some reports have indicated that anglers are leaving the waters with as many as 15 to 20 haddock each before the 16th, but now that the Atlantic cod season is open anglers can keep 10 cod per day in addition, with a minimum length of 24 inches! Most of the cod and haddock fishing is occurring offshore near Jeffreys Ledge, but Atlantic cod CAN be found closer to shore this early in the season. --Kevin Sullivan, Marine Biologist
FISHING SEASON RESOURCES:
*Main Fishing page: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm
*Buy your license online: http://www.greatlodge.com/nh
* Saltwater angler registry: https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov
*Boating & fishing access map: http://www.fishnh.com/pubaccess_maps/pubaccess_map.htm
*Past fishing reports: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing_reports.htm
*Tournaments: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing_tournaments.htm
* Depth maps: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/bathy_maps.htm
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CONTACT: Lt. Robert Bryant: (603) 271-3127 Jane Vachon: (603) 271-3211 January 15, 2010
USE EXTREME CAUTION ON THE ICE
CONCORD, N.H. – Winter recreational activities are in full swing, but anglers, skiers and snowmobilers are being urged to use extreme caution when going out onto ice-covered waterbodies, New Hampshire Fish and Game officials warned today. Windy conditions at the outset of the season’s cold weather, and uneven temperatures since, may have affected ice formation and has left open water in some areas typically frozen over by this point in the winter. “Parts of the big lakes aren’t completely frozen yet, and we’re seeing some waterbodies with areas of open water where people might not expect to find it,” said Col. Martin Garabedian. “The bottom line is that people need to use extreme caution on the ice, and be highly aware of local conditions before snowmobiling -- especially at night -- or doing any winter sports on the ice.” One example of the unusual and potentially dangerous ice conditions is Webster Lake in Franklin, which still has open water near the Sucker Brook inlet and spans quite a distance out into the middle of the lake. These unusual conditions haven’t been seen on the lake in at least twenty years at this point in the season. It is believed that the current of the brook and the high amount of wind are the reasons the water remains open. Even after the lake does freeze, that particular area will need to be used with extreme caution. Be sure to assess ice safety before you go out by using an ice chisel or axe to chop a hole in the ice to determine its thickness and condition. Continue to do this as you get further out on to the ice, because the thickness of the ice will not be uniform all over the waterbody. Though all ice is potentially dangerous, the Cold Region Research Laboratory in Hanover, N.H., offers a "rule of thumb" on ice thickness: There should be a minimum of six inches of hard ice before individual foot travel, and eight to ten inches of hard ice for snow machine or ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) travel. Keep in mind that it is possible for ice to be thick, but not strong, because of varying weather conditions. Weak ice is formed when warming trends break down ice, then the slushy surface re-freezes. Be especially careful of areas with current, such as inlets, outlets and spring holes, where the ice can be dangerously thin.
Tips for staying safe on the ice include:
* Stay off the ice along the shoreline if it is cracked or squishy. Don’t go on the ice during thaws.
* Watch out for thin, clear or honeycombed ice. Dark snow and ice may also indicate weak spots.
* Small bodies of water tend to freeze thicker. Rivers and lakes are more prone to wind, currents and wave action that weaken ice.
* Don’t gather in large groups on the ice.
* Don’t drive large vehicles onto the ice.
* If you do break through the ice, don’t panic. Move or swim back to where you fell in, where you know the ice was solid. Lay both arms on the unbroken ice and kick hard. This will help lift your body onto the ice. A set of ice picks can aid you in a self-rescue (wear them around your neck or put them in an easily accessible pocket). Once out of the water, roll away from the hole until you reach solid ice. Ice safety should be paramount for anyone recreating on New Hampshire’s lakes and ponds. Don't assume ice is safe just because it's there.
To download a brochure from Fish and Game called "Safety on Ice," visit http://www.wildnh.com.
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-- Copyright 2010 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
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N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- September 24, 2009
This is it, folks, our last NH fishing report of the season. Thanks for reading - we hope you had a great time on the water this spring and summer. There's more great fishing to come, as reported by three of our contributing anglers below....
Last chance: The Kids Fishing Photo Contest, co-sponsored by Fish and Game and Kidz Rule USA magazine, ends September 30. Info: http://www.fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/kids_photo_contest_2009.html And - don't forget to join us for the National Hunting and Fishing Day Expo & NH Tour, this Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/expotour for Expo exhibitor details and a map of Tour locations! Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in New Hampshire!
For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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FROM MARK BEAUCHESNE: Pick your day to go pike fishing in the next month. This is when the big ones eat. They are fattening up for winter. Ideally, you want two days of stable weather, then fish the third day -- no need to get an early start. Your best fishing is from 10:00 to 3:00.
Stick to the main river, and focus on outside turns in the river. (I'm talking about the Connecticut, but pike are found in many waterbodies in NH.) Grass and weeds beds tend to be more productive in the fall. The mouths of coves and setbacks are great ambush spots for pike. I like to make several passes at these areas. The first time by may have caught their interest... the second time by, they'll eat. Keep your eyes focused on the area of your lure or fly; pike are notorious for following your offering. If you have time and space, change your retrieve, try to take the lure away from the fish. If the fish misses, cast right back to the miss. That fish is still looking to eat. Try floating minnow baits in perch colors and flies of the same hue.
Fall pike fishing holds out into early November. That is, as long as you can stand the boat ride when the air temperature starts to dive!
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FROM GABE GRIES: Fall fishing to me means taking advantage of one of our state's greatest fishery resources: the Connecticut River. Whether you are interested in panfish, perch, bass, northern pike or walleye, the river is the place to go. There are several locations you will want to key in on, regardless of what section of the river you are fishing this fall. I start by using my depth finder to find areas with 5 to 8-foot deep flats that have deeper water around them. These are classic locations in the fall to catch smallmouth bass and walleye. Last fall was no exception, as I boated numerous smallmouth bass, walleye, and even a couple small pike on jerkbaits. Pike are generally more prevalent in the setbacks and coves as the water starts to cool. As the water continues to cool and vegetation in the setbacks and coves starts to die, try fishing where these areas and the main river meet, and also any adjacent flats. The dying vegetation will cause baitfish, which had been living in the vegetation, to move to the main river, creating an incredible feeding opportunity for bigger fish. Jerkbaits, tubes, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits will all get the job done. As the water starts to approach the low 50s, concentrate on deep, large holes. Smallmouth bass and walleye will often congregate in these areas and you can have some 20+ fish days if you find the right spot. Drop-shot rigs, tubes, and grubs are your best bet here.
Hope to see you on the river this fall!
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FROM BEN NUGENT: Time is winding down to fish most of the rivers and streams in southeastern New Hampshire. Aside from some select rivers (sections of the Cocheco, Isinglass, Lamprey, Merrimack, and Suncook rivers), the season for angling on rivers and streams ends on October 15. Anglers should take advantage of the remaining season. Recent electrofishing surveys have indicated that stocked trout are likely still present in streams at fishable levels. The cooler summer with above-average rainfalls appear to have made these traditionally warmer waters more conducive to summertime survival of stocked trout. Anglers should target deeper pools and rapids with faster water in locations that aren't necessarily close to roads. Anglers should also take note of the fall Atlantic salmon brood stock season (http://www.wildnh.com/Fishing/atlantic_salmon.htm). More than 700 additional brood stock salmon will soon be released for the catch and release season beginning on October 1.
The majority of these fish are planned to be stocked in the Bristol/Franklin area.
In New Hampshire's lakes and ponds, it was a good summer to be a fish. The above-average rainfall likely decreased angling pressure while adding additional forage for fish to feed on. Several fish species (both warmwater and coldwater) that receded into deeper water during warmer periods are slowly able to revert to shallow waters as temperatures slowly decline. These movement patterns should increase opportunities for shoreline anglers to once again catch fish. Water temperatures are close to the mid to upper 60s now, and any stretch of cold nights will quickly reduce temperatures even more.
Although designated trout ponds close to angling on October 15, several lakes and ponds in southeastern New Hampshire remain open for fishing. Results from pond surveys in 2008 indicate that some ponds, despite receiving heavy angling pressure, still have a great deal of trout after the traditional end of the open-water fishing season. These trout that still remain are likely larger but well acclimated to the ecosystem. The challenge to catch these fish is increased but those who put their time in, have the potential to be rewarded by the catch of a trophy fish. To view a list of these waterbodies, go to: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/year_round_trout_ponds.htm. Some select waterbodies are managed with a fall stocking season, but other more popular lakes and ponds not routinely stocked in the fall often receive trout this time of year, after they are utilized for hatchery production. The intent of these fish is to enhance late open water and ice fishing seasons.
One great fishing season may be nearing its finale, but Fish and Game is working to provide you with an exciting fall and winter of fishing adventure ahead. Enjoy it, and watch your in-box for more fishing reports in April of 2010.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
POSSIBLE MOUNTAIN LION SIGHTING IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
CONCORD, N.H. -- The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department today reported that one of its staff members, following up on a routine report of a mountain lion sighting, saw what is believed to be a mountain lion in a rural area of Barnstead, N.H.
Mountain lions are known to exist in the wild in states no closer than Iowa and Florida, so it is not thought to be a dispersing wild animal, but rather is most likely an illegally released pet.
"Survival of this type of animal is typically extremely low as they normally do not have the developed abilities to catch prey on a consistent basis, and/or may have been de-clawed," said Fish and Game Wildlife Division Chief Steve Weber. "If the animal does survive, we would expect to collect hard evidence of its existence in the form of a picture, tracks, scat and/or DNA evidence." Mountain lions were extirpated from their range in the Eastern United States by the late 1800s, with the exception of the endangered Florida panther. According to the nonprofit research organization cougarnet.org, there have been four confirmed reports of mountain lions in the Northeastern U.S. since 1938.
"The Fish and Game Department receives numerous reports of mountain lions every year," said Weber. "We still have no documentation to confirm their presence. While we do not believe this is a harbinger of a recovering population of mountain lions in New Hampshire, it does add one more credible report to several others we have received over the years."
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-- Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- September 17, 2009
This week, fish culture operations supervisor Bob Fawcett reveals this fall's trout stocking locations. Also, Matt Carpenter, fisheries biologist with the Anadromous Fisheries Restoration Program, gives us a preview of exciting fall action fishing for brood stock Atlantic salmon.
Mark your calendars for the National Hunting and Fishing Day Expo and NH Tour coming Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/expotour for Expo exhibitor details and a map of Tour locations!
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in New Hampshire!
For past fishing reports and all your NH fishing info, visit Fish and Game's fishing page at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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TROUT STOCKED FOR WINTER ANGLERS
By Robert Fawcett, Fish Culture Operations Supervisor
Winter anglers in New Hampshire will have some trout stocked especially for them once again this fall. New Hampshire Fish and Game stocks trout every year during the fall months, mostly to bolster the winter ice fishery, which should translate into some exciting action for winter anglers this year.
Anglers going after trout can find lists of waters that remain open to the taking of trout year round on the Fish and Game website:
* Lakes and ponds - http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/year_round_trout_ponds.htm * Rivers and streams - http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/year_round_trout_streams.htm
Rules for waterbodies with special regulations are listed in the N.H. Freshwater Fishing Digest, available from license agents or on the Fish and Game website.
During the fall of 2009, Fish and Game will stock trout into a total of 24 New Hampshire lakes and ponds managed for trout with no closed season -- putting in more than 11,230 rainbow trout, 6,000 eastern brook trout yearlings and 2,950 brown trout.
Following is a list of New Hampshire lakes and ponds that will be stocked during the fall of 2009 (please note that the list below is the plan for 2009. There are many more N.H. waterbodies open for year-round fishing than are included on this list):
Beaver Lake, Derry Massabesic Lake, Manchester Opechee Lake, Laconia Waukewan Lake, Meredith Winona Lake, Center Harbor Chocorua Lake, Tamworth Wentworth Lake, Wolfeboro Crystal Lake, Gilmanton Akers Pond, Errol Cedar Pond, Milan Martin Meadow Pond, Lancaster Sunapee Lake (Little), New London Stinson Lake, Rumney Pearl Lake, Lisbon Laurel Lake, Fitzwilliam Silver Lake, Madison
Fish Culturists inventory their fish as they set up for winter, and make adjustments as they head into fall, having inventoried what they have and having calculated the number needed to meet the target for stocking next spring, based on past performance data. They let it be known, and the regional fisheries biologists plan a surplus-stocking schedule for the fish declared surplus, and they are distributed and released.
Fish and Game has also issued permits for private release of trout into select waters managed for trout with no closed season (in the Isinglass, Cocheco, Lamprey, and Exeter rivers). The fly anglers are purchasing fish and stocking them for recreational fishing enjoyment.
Berry Brook is stocked in fall and spring with sea-run brown trout. Open season is from August 16 through March 1 from the Bracket Road bridge to the beginning of the prominent large rock area upstream, restricted to single-hook artificial lures and flies. Note: This brook is closed year round to all fishing from the prominent large rock area to Sagamore Rd. There may be returning true salters, plus the surplus brood stock will be stocked out after egg taking, to recruit into a winter fishery.
Happy Fishing!
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BROOD STOCK ATLANTIC SALMON OFFER EXCITING FALL FISHING By Matt Carpenter, Fisheries Biologist, Anadromous Fisheries Restoration Program
Anglers looking for some challenging catch-and-release sport fishing while they're enjoying the fall foliage should head to the Merrimack and Pemigewasset rivers to hook the "King of Fish." October and November are prime months for fall Atlantic salmon fishing in New Hampshire. Expect some great salmon fishing by the first week in October.
This fall the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department will stock the Merrimack basin with about 800 brood stock Atlantic salmon, averaging about 2 to 3 pounds. The two-year-old fish, which we stock in the fall, are smaller than the 3- and 4-year-olds, which we put out in the spring -- but the tradeoff is that fishing conditions are usually better in the fall. Salmon are in no hurry to leave the river as the water temperature cools and lower average flows provide better access for anglers.
Fisheries statistics suggest that the success rate for catching salmon is higher in the fall than in the spring season. The brood stock Atlantic salmon season runs year-round, but all salmon caught from October 1 through March 31 must be released immediately. Brood stock salmon will be stocked this fall at two sites -- below the Eastman Falls Dam in Franklin and the Ayers Island Dam in Bristol. The first good spots to try for the brood stock salmon are below the Ayers Island Dam in Bristol along the Coolidge Woods Road, the Profile Falls Recreation Area (the access site near the Smith River confluence), below the Eastman Falls Dam in Franklin and the public boat launch behind the Franklin High School on the Winnipesauke River. Because the fish are migratory, anglers should also try fishing downstream as the season progresses, near Boscawen (in the Stirrup Iron Brook area), Penacook (at the mouth of the Contoocook River), at the Sewall's Falls Recreational Park in Concord and below the Garvins Falls Dam (Bow) and the Hooksett Dam. Find more information and an access map at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/atlantic_salmon.htm. Best bets for anglers are traditional salmon flies or trout streamers such as Grey Ghosts, Mickey Finns or any patterns that imitate small baitfish. Fishing with spinning gear is allowed in the section of the river below the Garvins Falls Dam in Bow. Anglers should review the special regulations for brood stock salmon at the Fish and Game website. To fish for brood stock salmon, anglers need a current New Hampshire fishing license and an $11 brood stock salmon permit; both are available at http://www.fishnh.com or from license agents statewide. All proceeds from salmon stamp permits support the Merrimack River Anadromous Fish Restoration Program, created in 1993 by Fish and Game, in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to help restore migratory fish populations to the Merrimack River watershed. Brood stock salmon anglers can help the program by reporting their catch to Fish and Game. Please call me (Matt Carpenter) at 603-271-2612 with any questions, comments, or just to share your fishing experience. We are always interested in your feedback on the brood stock program.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- August 27, 2009
This week, marine biologist Kevin Sullivan reports on seacoast catches -- including a longstanding record broken twice this summer!
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
FISH STOCKING: Stocking is complete for the season. Check the stocking page (http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm) for sites stocked in 2009.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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1 FISH, 2 FISH, RED FISH, BLUEFISH.......BLACKFISH??
By Kevin Sullivan, Biologist II, Marine Fisheries Division/Durham
That's right, this summer in New Hampshire a rarely caught fish by recreational saltwater anglers has been making its presence known. Although quite common in the waters of our southern neighbors such as Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the tautog (called by a common name of "blackfish") is not a very abundantly caught species in New Hampshire's Atlantic coastal waters. However, last month, a new state record was set not only once, but TWICE! The previous state record tautog was landed in June of 1999, and weighed in at 3 lbs., 12.48 oz and 18 1/4 inches long. Because of their scarcity this far north, that record had stood for 10 years and one month to the day; that is, until Graham Oakes of Derry, NH came along... Graham was fishing on July 16 from the jetty situated along the inlet to Hampton Harbor that is accessible from the Hampton State Park. He fished what he referred to as "the bed" near the end of the jetty and was able to win a game of outsmarting a 4-lb., 3.8 oz, 19 1/4" tautog, which won him the title of New Hampshire state record holder. When asked about his experience seeking out these less common fish, Graham told me he likes "'tog", he "knows where they hang out," and he catches 3 or 4 each year in New Hampshire. To all of you wondering how he does it, Graham let me in on his secret and said I could share it, so he's up for the competition. Graham's approach that has proven successful was cut strips of clam that he rigs in a popular freshwater setup known as the Carolina Rig. The story doesn't end there and Graham's competition came quicker than anyone would have guessed. Only four days later, Roland Groux of Hampton, NH, landed an 8-lb., 10.8-oz. tautog that was measured at 21 3/4 inches. This prize fish was also caught in Hampton, but was landed within the confines of the Hampton Harbor. Roland now currently holds the new state record, which is a considerable jump from the previous weights. There are still a few months of prime saltwater fishing left here in New Hampshire, so if enough anglers begin setting their sights on tautog, there's a chance at a bigger one. Just ask Graham and Roland! For those anglers that are still focusing attention on striped bass and bluefish, this season has been a learning experience. Much like last year, the numbers of both fish have been more dispersed and have put our fishing knowledge to the test. Most bluefish caught in recent weeks have been landed in the waters of Hampton and Rye, but the striped bass catches have been seen at most heavily used fishing access sites. In the summer months of June, July and August, the warming waters tend to slow down the voracious feeding behavior of striped bass, and push them into a holding pattern where they hang tight to rocks and ledges waiting for the food to come to them. During these months, stripers landed tend to lower in number but increase in size. A great approach for these stripers is to use whole live fish (Atlantic mackerel, pollock, menhaden) or frozen bait on an unweighted or lightly weighted leader. Fishing from shore or in a boat, try to get near the rocky edges of one of the points along the coast, such as Rye Ledge, Odiorne Point, or Great Boars Head. Move in fairly close to the shoreline, toss the bait into the waters near the large rocks and back the boat away from the shore as you let our your line to keep the bait from being pulled away from the rocks as you move away. If there is a cow striper hiding in the crashing surf between some of these rocks, they'll take the bait as it swims or drifts down. Experienced striped bass anglers in New Hampshire also can tell you that the months of September and October bring about more opportunities to land striped bass. In these months, the striped bass that came up this far north in large groups and then spread out into our rivers, harbors, and bays are now trying to 'carpool' back to the warmer southern waters for the winter. How does this benefit us as anglers? Well, as all of the stripers begin to congregate at locations such as the mouth of the Piscataqua River, they begin to move as a large school down the shoreline of New Hampshire, no doubt feeding along the way. To take advantage of their behavior, try using live eels as bait from a sandy beach such as North Hampton State Beach, Wallis Sands, or Hampton North Beach after sunset. For those anglers that are used to landing fish by hauling them over the side of a boat, it is a whole new experience when you wade out knee-deep in the surf and land a 40-inch striper like you might expect a fly-fisherman to land a 12-inch brook trout in a raging river. Remember, if the fish aren't biting every trip, it doesn't mean that they aren't there, it means that now is the time to challenge yourself to reach for a different lure, or mark a new spot on your map that may produce the trophy fish like Graham and Roland caught already this year.
Good luck and tight lines!
P.S.: The New Hampshire legal size for haddock in 2009 has been reduced from 19 inches to 18 inches, so get busy offshore and fill your coolers.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- August 6, 2009
This week, fisheries biologist Gabe Gries tells the story of Forest Lake in Winchester, where anglers came together to solve an access problem, and are today once again able to enjoy a fantastic fishery.
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
FISH STOCKING: Stocking is complete for the season. Check the stocking page (http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm) for sites stocked in 2009.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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Community Action Brings Back Public Access at Forest Lake in Winchester By Gabe Gries, Fisheries Biologist, Region 4/Keene
Forest Lake in Winchester is a beautiful 87-acre waterbody located in Southwestern NH, 7 miles from the Massachusetts border and 12 miles south of Keene. The lake has always been a very popular fishing location for local and out-of-state anglers and for anglers that stay at the Forest Lake Campground. A privately-owned boat launch allowed boaters access to the lake for decades until it was closed in 2004. Prior to the boat ramp closure, the lake offered a wonderful two-story (cold and warmwater) fishery which was made up of largemouth bass, chain pickerel, brown trout and rainbow trout. With the boat ramp closure in 2004, trout stocking was discontinued, as the general public no longer had reasonable access to Forest Lake. The closure was followed by a huge outcry from local anglers, now unable to access one of their favorite trout and bass waters. In an effort to regain public boat access to Forest Lake, the NH Fish and Game Department made attempts in 2005 to purchase a small parcel of land containing the existing boat ramp. Unfortunately, the purchase was never finalized and it looked as if public boat access to Forest Lake would remain a memory. That all changed in 2009! Sue LaPoint, a local sportswoman, and President of the Mt. Pisgah Sportsmen's Club in Winchester, decided that local anglers had waited long enough. She began talking with the landowner, town officials, local businesses, and area residents in an attempt to have the Sportsmen's Club purchase the property surrounding the boat ramp. Sue worked tirelessly on this endeavor and was met with support and positive feedback from all she contacted. After months of meetings, discussions and planning, the sub-division needed in order to purchase the property was approved by the NH Department of Environmental Services and the town of Winchester. Effective July 17, 2009, the Mt. Pisgah Sportsmen's Club became the proud new owners of the "Phillips/Conant Public Boat Ramp" on Forest Lake. Financial assistance with the purchase was also provided by a number of area businesses and individuals within the community. "We couldn't have done this without the support of the community, the previous landowner (Margaret Conant), and various donors," said LaPoint. On July 22, brown and rainbow trout were stocked again in the lake for the first time in five years! The NH Fish and Game Department will continue to offer the Club suggestions on parking location strategies and any advice they might need on boat ramp maintenance. The Forest Lake Improvement Association and the Winchester Conservation Commission are offering their support as well. Area anglers are excited to once again be able to wet a line in Forest Lake. Sean Graves, a bass angler from Chesterfield, stopped by the office this week to make sure that the ramp had been re-opened. "I am thrilled that the Mt. Pisgah Sportsmen's Club is so supportive of local anglers. I can't wait to take my son fishing there," said Graves. The Sportsmen's Club members, of which there are 70, hold fundraisers throughout the year in order to provide support to local youth and community organizations. Among other community activities, they host a "Christmas in the Park" event, an Easter Egg hunt, two youth fishing derbies, and a "learn to fly-fish" event each year. When I talked with Sue LaPoint a few days ago, she was thrilled with the purchase. "We received overwhelming assistance, both financial and otherwise, to make this happen. This community always seems to come together to support projects like this," LaPoint said. "Happy fishing and safe boating," she added. We hope you enjoy fishing this year in the Monadnock/Upper Valley Region and don't forget to take a kid fishing anytime you can. We are always happy to talk to you about fish and fishing so please contact us at Region 4 (603-352-9669; reg4@wildlife.nh.gov) if you have any questions. For a list of popular water bodies to fish for by species, please consult the Suggested Fishing Locations for the Monadnock Region/Southwest N.H, which can be found at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing_forecast/Locations_Southwest.htm.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- July 30, 2009
This week, coldwater fisheries project leader Dianne Timmins returns to her post with a fresh outlook on fishing, reflecting on her childhood experiences and planning some fishing adventures for her family as her new baby gets older.
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
FISH STOCKING: Stocking is complete for the season. Check the stocking page (http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm) for sites stocked in 2009.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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A NEW PERSPECTIVE:
It's never too soon to plan a child's first fishing adventure
By Dianne Timmins, Fisheries Biologist, Region 1/Lancaster
I remember my mom taking me fishing on Powwow Pond (Kingston) with my brothers. We'd purchase worms and head out for a morning or afternoon of targeting perch, with the bonus being a hefty smallmouth or largemouth bass. I remember my brother Kurt's interest fading the fastest and brother Jay was not big into worms, but I could have stayed all day or night long. If it wasn't for the biplane-sized mosquitoes, I think we would have. We'd also do some fishing on Kingston Lake (Great Pond) and catch sunfish. It has been a long time since I have angled those waterbodies, but rumor has it they still provide good warmwater fisheries. Now it's my turn to pass on the tradition: I'm a new mom with a fourteen-week-old daughter. In recent months, adult conversation and thoughts of fisheries were not a part of my immediate world. Two weeks ago, I returned to my work as a fisheries biologist and Coldwater Project Leader for NH Fish and Game. Now that I am back, I see things in a whole new way... At home in the evening, when I stare down into my daughter's eyes and she flashes her full-hearted smile, I can't help but think of what it will be like to take her fishing. I will start out as my mom did, with warmwater areas like Burns Lake and Forest Lake, both in Whitefield. There's nothing like sweet success to get a child hooked on fishing. Start by targeting sunfish and then moving into more challenging gamefish like bass, pickerel and pike. Another area to try is Partridge Lake in Littleton, where Fish and Game's most recent netting results indicated populations of both smallmouth and largemouth bass, above-average sized brown bullheads (catfish/horned pout), pickerel, pike and, of course, sunfish. Then, I'll get my little girl into brook trout fishing, starting with small streams and moving into larger rivers. We can head out to the Ellis River in Jackson -- or any small headwater stream, for that matter. Electrofishing surveys show that Ellis River contains only brook trout in its headwaters. We might start there, where the stream channel is narrow, and target pool habitats. I'll explain to her the importance of various types of habitats and how each one plays a critical role in a fish's life cycle. She will most likely call me a biology nerd or something, but I will still enjoy explaining what I do for work. As my daughter gets older, I'll call on my husband to assist in teaching her how to fly-fish. He is the one who taught me, and I am still learning new bits and pieces each time I go. We can then take family trips to the Connecticut River or the Androscoggin. Perhaps we'll head south to the Pemigewasset. The East Branch parallels the Kancamagus Highway. It will be fun to show her all our favorite parts of New Hampshire as she gets older, exploring each lake, river and mountain trail in turn. All of a sudden, a coo and squeak break my concentration. I look down to a little chubba with eyes full of glee. "Hi there!" I exclaim. "I was just thinking of you."
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- July 16, 2009
This week, Marine Division staffer Becky Heuss revs up for the arrival of bluefish along New Hampshire's coast.
FISH STOCKING: Stocking is complete for the season. Last week, the Pemigewasset River was stocked in Lincoln, Thornton and Woodstock, and Russell Pond was stocked. Check the stocking page (http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm) for sites stocked over the course of the season.
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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GO FOR BLUEFISH, AND CATCH SOME EXCITEMENT! By Becky Heuss, Biological Technician
Some of my fondest memories are of the Atlantic coast and bluefish during the summertime. Anglers line the rocky shoreline, shouting, "The blues are running!" Schools of bluefish chase baitfish like Atlantic menhaden or "pogies" into the shallows, and the water erupts with excitement. Each cast brings about another struggle between man and fish. I remember this scene well, but what sticks out in my mind the most is the smell, days afterward, when "pogies" still baked in the sun, having beached themselves during the feeding frenzy. I have not experienced a bluefish "run" since my youth, but I am still able to recapture the excitement each summer aboard the party boats in New Hampshire. Toward the middle of July, we feel the anticipation of another bluefish season. Well, guess what? They're here! Bluefish, like stripers, will follow baitfish up into the coastal rivers, so they may be caught anywhere from off of the Hampton coast to up in the river by Dover Point, and even in Great Bay at times. Many qualities make bluefish a popular saltwater target. They are a voracious predator and the excitement of a feeding frenzy is hard to match. They are a schooling fish, so where there is one, there are likely to be many more. Blues also put up a good fight -- when you reel them in, watch out for their sharp teeth! Bluefish have long gotten a bad rap by picky eaters, because they really are tastiest when fresh. After you catch them, eat them within 24 hours; they are an oily fish and can taste "fishy" if left for too long. Try marinating them in milk -- I've been told this is a good way to draw out the oils. There are some that insist the best way to eat a blue is grilled fresh with lemon juice, skin side down to let the oil drip off. They are also good poached, broiled or smoked.
Want to catch some of the excitement but don't have a boat? There are many locations along New Hampshire's coast that are prime real-estate for bluefishing. Check out the new "Take Me Fishing! Seashore Fishing Guide" at http://www.wildnh.com/marine/marine_PDFs/seacoast_TMF_guide.pdf for some great fishing spots where you can catch bluefish, stripers and other saltwater fish from shore. If you are looking for a day on the water or want some help for your first time bluefishing, join one of the many party boat companies along New Hampshire's coast. They will supply you with bait and bring you right to the blues. (Party boat info: http://www.maineharbors.com/nh/nhlnk.htm and http://www.portsmouthnh.com/port/boats.cfm.)
There is no better way to shake off those rainy day blues than a day out fishing. Get out and make some lasting memories with your kids this summer.
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For more about fishing the New Hampshire coast, don't miss the July-August N.H. Wildlife Journal magazine -- Fish and Game's annual coastal issue -- with articles on striped bass, harvesting Great Bay, and more. Read sample articles and subscribe at http://www.wildnh.com/Wildlife_Journal/WJ_mag.htm.
And while you're on the shore, don't miss our Great Bay programs for children and families at the Discovery Center on Depot Road in Greenland/Stratham - http://www.wildnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/GB_Summer_Programs_062609.html.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- July 9, 2009
This week, fisheries biologist Don Miller offers his thoughts on the season in the Lakes Region, and what all this rain means for the fisheries (and the anglers).
FISH STOCKING: A couple dozen Coos County sites were stocked last week. Check the stocking page (http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm) for a list of sites stocked - this is probably the last report of the season.
DEADLINE TOMORROW FOR TEEN ENVIRO CAMP: NH Natural Leaders Program, an environmental leadership program that includes a two-week residential camp starting July 19, is now just $500 (including room and board) for New Hampshire resident youths ages 13-17. Info and application: http://www.wildnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/NH_Nat_Leaders_062409.html
Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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BIG RAIN, BIG FISHING ON BIG LAKES B
y Don Miller, fisheries biologist, Region 2/New Hampton
When will the rains end? The Lakes Region received over 8 inches of rain in June, more than twice the normal amount for the month. As most of you know, July has continued this wet pattern. Let's take a look at the good and bad of high water levels. The good news is, a copious amount of food is being washed into our lakes and streams, and as far as I can tell from my trips on Lake Winnisquam, lake trout and rainbows are on a feeding spree. A local angler fishing Winnisquam recently landed a beautiful 14-pound lake trout, while Nubanusit just recently yielded a 16-pound laker. I've had a great time with lakers on Winnisquam trolling flies and lures on 4 - 6 colors of lead core line. A few rainbow trout are mixed in the catch as well. Reports from area lakes reveal that the thermocline has set-up around 30 feet deep. Although early morning fishing (5 AM) might encounter fish a lot closer to the surface, you will generally want to run your lines at or below 30 feet deep for more consistent action. Bass fishing enthusiasts report that smallmouth activity is concentrated along drop-offs, generally in water depths greater than 20 feet. Anglers may find some surface activity in the early morning and again at dusk along shorelines near rock and tree cover. One angler in Lake Winnisquam reported catching a lake trout while working the drop-offs and a nice rainbow trout followed his lure on another occasion. In other words, be prepared, you never know what will appear from the depths! High waters are a blessing for the movement of fish (whether they like it or not!). "Dropdown fisheries" is a term for periodic fisheries that are timed to high water releases. These fisheries exist throughout the Lakes Region. Lochmere Dam (the dam at the lower end of Lake Winnisquam) has been a hot area for fishing nearly all season -- April anglers were treated to some especially fine landlocked salmon fishing. Even now, although landlocks are seldom caught, some fine fishing exists for rainbow trout -- and occasionally brown trout, which are stocked in the lower Winnipesaukee River and also travel upstream to this dam site. Silver Lake (which begins below Lochmere Dam) offers some great small and largemouth bass fishing, with the smallies working the current flows at the outflow of the dam. Lakeport Dam, the water retention dam for Lake Winnipesaukee, offers some good fishing in the tailwater section below the dam and out into Lake Opechee. Opechee is stocked with rainbow trout and dropdown trout here are numerous from Winnipesaukee. When rivers run high, trout naturally move downstream; look for deeper pools that may provide relief and protection from fast water. If and when the rivers begin to diminish, fishing will be fast and furious, as the amount of fishable water increases exponentially. Check out the USGS website at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nh/nwis/rt, where you can get water level, flow, and temperature information for dozens of river and stream sites throughout the state. Remote pond trout stocking was accomplished flawlessly by Fisheries staff and an excellent helicopter pilot during the only decent day we had in mid-June! This year, pontoons were added to the helicopter, allowing for the easier dispersal of fingerling brook trout (and taking water samples for pH). The heavy rainfall made conditions in these ponds as good as I have ever seen. For those anglers itching to catch some "back-country" brookies, this year is shaping up to be one of the best. Yes, some streams and rivers are unfishably high and fast at the moment -- but hope springs eternal. The weather always changes, and there are always fishing opportunities in NH, no matter the weather!
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- July 2, 2009
This week, fisheries biologist Jason Carrier goes wacky for jerk baits.
Happy Independence Day, everybody! Have a wonderful weekend.
FISH STOCKING: As of this week, fish stocking is complete for the season. For the final list of sites stocked, visit: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm.
GOT TEENS? DEADLINE 7/10! Thanks to generous benefactors, the cost of the NH Natural Leaders Program, an environmental leadership program that includes a two-week residential camp this summer, is now just $500 (including room and board) for New Hampshire resident youth between the ages of 13-17. The summer camp, based out of Kimball Union Academy in Meriden, N.H., runs July 19 - August 1, 2009. Info and application: http://www.wildnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/NH_Nat_Leaders_062409.html Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.! Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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SUMMERTIME SOFT PLASTIC JERKS FOR BASS
By Jason Carrier, Fisheries Biologist, Region 4/Keene
There are so many different types of soft jerkbaits on the market today that it can be quite time-consuming just picking out what style, color, or size to purchase at a tackle shop. Soft jerkbaits are probably one of the most popular baits used among bass fisherman today. You would be surprised to peek into a bass angler's boat and not see at least one rod rigged with some sort of soft plastic jerkbait. The two basic styles of soft jerkbaits are the minnow style and the worm style, with many different variations in sizes and shapes. Whatever choice you make, there are multiple ways to fish that jerkbait. Worm-style jerkbaits rigged "wacky" have been the craze the last few years. This is a plastic worm, usually four to six inches long, hooked right in the middle. This is typically fished weightless; the worm falls horizontally in the water column, and is very effective on fish that are not very active, because of its slow-falling nature. This can be fished around shoreline structure, weed beds, and rocky areas. Wacky rigging is not snag-proof, because the hook point is exposed. Minnow and worm-style jerkbaits that float, sink, or have neutral buoyancy can be very effective when rigged in these four ways: Carolina, Texas, drop shot, or straight rig (no weight). I don't think I can adequately describe how to set up these rigs here, so you'll want to search the web for examples and diagrams of those you're not familiar with. "Carolina" rigging a worm or minnow bait can be very effective during the summer months; this is usually fished in deeper water near or adjacent to weed edges or main water structures like points or humps, and is slowly dragged or bounced on the bottom. Using a floating worm or minnow will raise your presentation off the bottom, giving it a different look. "Texas" rigging a jerk bait is very effective when fished in and around heavy cover. The hook point is not exposed, so the bait is practically snag proof. "Drop shot" rigs can be used shallow or deep, and are usually used with a downsized worm or minnow jerkbait, three to four inches in length. This presentation is typically, but not always, used in open water on flats or around main lake structure. Using a "straight rig" is the easiest and most snag-resistant way to rig a soft plastic worm or minnow. This rig allows the angler to really change up the cadence of the bait to let the fish know what they really want. Two of my most recent fishing trips produced some nice largemouths in and around vegetation. The mornings were calm and I just had to try top-water, but the vegetation was so thick that I needed something that wouldn't get snagged. I went with a floating minnow jerkbait, straight rigged. I just twitched it along the surface of the vegetation, making it look like a struggling minnow. I got many hits on it and managed to boat a fair number of bass once I got the timing of the strike and the hook set down. Once the bass would hit it I had to be patient and wait 2-3 seconds before setting the hook. Get out on the water this summer and experiment with these different types of rigs for your soft plastic jerkbaits. Try different jerkbait styles, sizes, and colors and find out what works best for you. Good luck!
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P.S. to anglers fishing Lake Winnipesaukee: watch for tagged largemouth and smallmouth bass; they're tagged as part of a NH Fish and Game Warmwater Fisheries Management Program study. For info or to report a tagged bass: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fisheries_management/Bass_Movement_Study.html.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- June 18, 2009
In today's report, fisheries biologist Andy Schafermeyer shares some secrets from a banner bass day, fishing Moore Reservoir in Littleton with pro angler Terry Towle. Happy Father's Day! Give your dad or grandfather a memorable Father's Day this year - take him fishing! We don't need to tell YOU that fishing is a great way to slow down and celebrate your family. Have a wonderful weekend. FISH STOCKING: Fish stocking is winding down for the season, with stocking in the southern tier almost complete for the year. Stocking in northern NH is likely to continue for a few more weeks, and aerial stocking took place this week. For a list of sites stocked last week, visit: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.! Don't forget the camera: The Kids Fishing Photo Contest is underway, co-sponsored by Fish and Game and Kidz Rule USA magazine. Info: http://fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/kids_photo_contest_2009.html. Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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BASS FISHING LIKE A PRO By Andrew Schafermeyer, Fisheries Biologist, Region 1/Lancaster
I've often written that the most appealing part of freshwater fishing is that no one has it figured out completely. Success is measured one trip at a time. Effective methods one day may be worthless the next and both angler and fish have the same chance at outsmarting one another. In an effort to turn the tables as much in my favor as possible, I went fishing with a guy who never seems to be outsmarted and comes as close as I've seen to mastering the sport. Terry Towle of Woodsville has been fishing the bass tournament scene for better than 10 years and is one of the most accomplished and dedicated guys I've met. As a member of the Central Vermont Bassmasters club, he spends most of his summers wrapping up titles all over New England. We decided to fish Moore Reservoir in Littleton because of its size, varying conditions and history of producing trophy large and smallmouth bass. When I learned that Terry once had a string of 19 consecutive tournament wins on Moore, I deemed him more than qualified a guide. I met him at 9:00 a.m. on a clear, sunny day and we quickly loaded our gear into his 20-foot Triton. After observing water temperatures in the low to mid-sixties, our plan of attack was to assume that we were fishing over post-spawn bass who may be staging on elevated substrate next to deep water. With the help of his depth-finder and a GPS system that looked cooler than my television set, we quickly found a 20-foot bump surrounded by 60-foot depths and decided to give it a try. Terry selected one of his 12 pre-rigged rods -- this one with a drop-shot setup that consisted of a 3/16-oz. egg sinker, 22" of 8 lb. line leading to a 1/0 octopus hook baited with a 4-inch green Chomper worm. In those depths, the retrieve almost resembled a vertical jigging method, but Terry worked it with the skill and anticipation of a seasoned angler. It was this very method that he used to win the 2007 Ironman Open on Lake Champlain with a six-fish creel of 32 pounds. I watched Terry catch a few smallmouth this way before he declared, "We can do better" -- and we were off to another spot. The 200-horsepower Mercury made the search process very efficient. Unlike some professional anglers, Terry never showed a sense of impatience or anxiety when catch rates slowed down. He also never showed a competitive side that can keep anglers from having fun. He enjoyed every catch and seemed just as rewarded when I caught a fish. After fishing another spot of quickly elevated depth, we started fishing large boulders in 15 to 20 feet of water. Things got very exciting as we both started landing fish and I watched Terry throw so many different baits and approaches that I could've gotten dizzy if I wasn't so amazed. He caught fish on 3" dark-colored tube baits, skillfully reading the bottom from the feel of his 8-pound line and seven-foot light-action rod. I saw him accurately pitch jigs and boomerang a 3/8-oz. spinnerbait under overhanging vegetation. I asked about color preferences and was somewhat surprised to learn that he never over-thinks the matter. "I spend most of the time trying to find the fish and then worry about colors." Once we found fish, Terry had little trouble getting them to bite. Fish were routinely outsmarted by a smoke-colored RattleTrap, 4" Senkos, and spider jigs. Most of his soft plastic baits were watermelon or green pumpkin in color and he was clearly trying to imitate the crayfish that he knows are an important bass forage in Moore Reservoir. Despite our success, we changed approaches routinely. Applying different methods kept things exciting and fun. At 11:30, we entered a shallow cove where the water temperature had warmed to 67 and we cast around woody material like downed trees and submerged stumps. We also cast over large shallow shelves where Terry threw lipless crankbaits, explaining that they are his favorite "fish locator" as they allow you to cover a lot of water. One of the most exciting approaches came when Terry decided to trophy hunt by throwing a 5-inch swimbait rigged on a 3/0, weighted worm hook. His quick retrieve kept the bait swimming in a sub-surface action that resembled a buzz-bait and we both got the feeling that this was the bait that would bring the monsters into the boat. After a few short strikes, we watched as an explosive strike cut his line in the fashion that made us both realize he'd lost a big northern pike. Our day on the lake ended at about 3:00 and we'd landed between 20 and 30 bass. I thanked Terry for an awesome education and made it clear that I wouldn't write specifically about his methods, as most tournament anglers are understandably protective of their secrets. He dismissed any of that attitude and told me to share anything with my readers, which reminded me again of his genuine love for fishing. It was a great day and I look forward to fishing with him again.
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P.S. to anglers fishing Lake Winnipesaukee: watch for tagged largemouth and smallmouth bass; they're tagged as part of a NH Fish and Game Warmwater Fisheries Management Program study. For info or to report a tagged bass: www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fisheries_management/Bass_Movement_Study.html.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
GIVE DAD A TASTE OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE ON FATHER'S DAY -- TAKE HIM FISHING!
CONCORD, N.H. -- Want to give your dad or grandfather a memorable Father's Day this year? Take him fishing! There's nothing like an outdoor adventure together to remind you what families are all about. Most dads can use a break from the fast-paced world. Fishing gives you that chance -- to slow down, enjoy the natural beauty around you, match wits with trout or bass, and spend time with people you care about. Leave the work-a-day world behind and cast that line!
So give him what he really wants for Father's Day (June 21 this year). Some ideas:
* Go fishing with your father or grandfather; * Scheduling a guided fishing trip; or * Buy him a fishing license he can use all year.
You can even send or e-mail your dad a special coupon from the Anglers' Legacy website that he can use anytime to take you up on your fishing invitation; download it at http://tinyurl.com/fathersday09. (While there, become an Anglers' Legacy Ambassador -- take the pledge to take at least one new person fishing each year and go to http://tinyurl.com/NHfishpledge.)
Maybe it's been a while since you've been fishing. Not to worry - all you need is some basic gear and bait. Get ideas on places to fish in different parts of New Hampshire - either in freshwater or on the coast - on the New Hampshire e Fish and Game Department's website, http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm. You'll find directions, tackle tips and more.
Sometimes a guided fishing trip can be the best option for a family group. A list of licensed New Hampshire fishing guides can be found on the Fish and Game website at http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing_guides.htm or call the local chamber of commerce. Guided trips allow anglers to concentrate on having fun together.
The gift of a fishing license works well, especially if you can't be there for a Father's Day fishing trip. It recognizes his love of the outdoors, and says you want to spend time with him. Permanent licenses are issued free to residents of New Hampshire who are 68 years of age or older, provided that they have been a New Hampshire resident for at least two years. Go to http://www.fishnh.com to find a local license agent or purchase your fishing license online. A Father's Day fishing trip can be a shared adventure and an expression of admiration and caring. Few things say it better. Recall the fun times you've had fishing with a father or grandfather, and make the day even more rewarding by creating a new adventure together. Make this a truly special Father's Day - fish New Hampshire and relax! The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department works to conserve, manage and protect the state's fish and wildlife and their habitats. Visit http://www.fishnh.com.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- June 12, 2009
Today's report comes from Kyle Glencross, biological aide for Fish and Game, offering tips for catching trout on late spring evenings and chasing stripers on the coast.
FISH STOCKING STILL GOING STRONG: For a list of sites stocked last week, visit: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Kids under 16 fish free in N.H.! Don't forget the camera: The Kids Fishing Photo Contest is underway, co-sponsored by Fish and Game and Kidz Rule USA magazine. Info: http://fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/kids_photo_contest_2009.html. Also -- Signups are on for the fall (Sept. 11-13) Becoming an Outdoors-Woman workshop. Lots of fishing and other wild workshops to choose from: http://www.fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/BOW_fall_reg_open_060809.html Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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THE TROUT AND STRIPERS OF JUNE By Kyle Glencross, biological aide, NH Fish and Game
You've got to love the month of June in New Hampshire, great fishing all across the state, from trout streams to stripers in the surf! This time of year allows many crazed anglers (such as myself) to sneak away in the evenings and get a couple of hours of fishing in during the week. The longer days and warming temperatures often make the last few hours of daylight the most productive. June is a great time to try some of New Hampshire's trout ponds. Try getting to your favorite pond a few hours before dark and casting or trolling small streamer fly patterns such as Brown Owls, Black Nosed Dace, 88's, and the infamous Hornberg. As darkness approaches and trout start rising, I normally switch to smaller dry fly patterns, and also a wet fly pattern designed by Ellis Hatch (former Fish and Game Commissioner) called the Hatching Pupa -- it's a killer on tough-to-fool trout! Anglers should keep their eyes open towards the end of the month for the start of the "hex" hatch. These giant mayflies bring not only some of the best dry fly fishing of the year, but also account for many anglers' largest trout and smallmouth bass of the season. They are mostly limited to cool water lakes and ponds, and often only appear the last twenty minutes before darkness sets in. Stay on the lookout! The smaller trout streams and rivers in southern part of the state are best also just fished in the early morning hours and late evenings because of climbing water temperatures. I can't talk the start of summer and leave out the striped bass on New Hampshire's seacoast. June is the real start of striper season. If you have never taken advantage of this great resource, you are missing out! The tidal creeks are often some of my favorite spots to hit; remember to fish these creeks on the first two hours of the outgoing tide and the last two hours of the incoming tide. Use soft plastics such as the Slug-Go in the Alewife or Arkansas Shiner. Fly patterns like the Half n Half, Cape and Island Minnow, and Mushmouths are top producers. Remember to plan your tides right for stripers during the morning and afternoons, switch your gear and beat it to your favorite trout pond for a great end to your day. See you on the water!
P.S. Are you just getting started fishing, or want to check out some new Concord-area locations? My fellow Fish and Gamer, Mark Beauchesne, appears in "Go Fish," a guide for fishing novices, in this morning's Concord Monitor. Check it out at http://tinyurl.com/fishconcord0609.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- May 21, 2009
In today's report, the fish are biting in the Lakes Region! Fisheries biologist Don Miller brings an update from the big lakes, rivers and ponds. Enjoy the long weekend, everyone!
STOCKING TRUCKS ARE ROLLING... 170+ sites were stocked with fish last week! Visit: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm. Also, all 760 brood stock Atlantic salmon slated for spring release have been stocked into the Merrimack and Pemigewassett rivers.
LAKE SUNAPEE - WILD GOOSE ACCESS SITE: The public comment period regarding the Wild Goose wetland permit application to the N.H. Department of Environmental Services Wetlands Bureau has been extended to June 26, 2009. For information about the proposed Wild Goose Boating Access Site, visit http://www.fishnh.com/access/wildgoose.
FREE FISHING DAY is just a week away - Saturday, June 6. Tell your friends! Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H.!
All NH fishing page: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm.
If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.fishnh.com/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm. Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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COOL RIVERS - HOT FISHING IN THE LAKES REGION By Don Miller, Large Lakes Fisheries Biologist, Region 2/New Hampton
LARGE LAKES
We've enjoyed a rather cool spring in the Lakes Region, and this has resulted in cool water temps in our big lakes; the temperature at Winnipesaukee (main lake and the Broads) has been around 50 - 55 degrees F this week. The recent Winni Derby was a success, with a 4.12-lb. landlocked salmon taking the major prize and an 8.5-lb. laker taking the "togue" category. The lake trout brought in by anglers were gorgeous fish, as fat and healthy as I've ever seen. Lots of two-year-old salmon were reported, and this bodes well for the future salmon fishery in the "Big Lake." Lake trout are still in shallow water, reports from Winnisquam have bass fishermen catching lakers in water 20 feet deep. Generally, look for lakers in water around 40-60 feet deep. Trolled bait (golden shiners) fished slowly along the bottom and edges of drop-offs is the best method. Sutton 44 and 61 spoons are always a top choice, and don't forget the old-standby, Flashking wobbler in gold/fluorescent for lake trout also. The landlocked salmon fishing has tailed off a bit, but the early morning anglers will still have luck trolling 3-5 colors of lead-core line (20-25 feet deep). Periodically, salmon seem to switch off this time of year, usually concurrent with the major phantom midge hatches on the lakes. At this time of year it is essential to be on the water in the pre-dawn hours, and fish until 9 o'clock or so, in order to find the salmon -- occasionally a mid-late morning/early afternoon second bite occurs, depending on weather conditions. Rainbow trout fishing has been hot in Winnipesaukee and Squam lakes. We've caught them on a variety of small streamers (size 6), hardware and live shiners. I like to use a sinking-tip fly line, 30 foot leader (6-lb. test), and troll the shorelines out to a depth of 30 - 40 feet. Work the fly rod with intermittent pulls, and troll at various speeds, 1.5-3 mph., in a curve or zigzag pattern.
RIVERS
The Pemigewasset River in Bristol (off the Coolidge Woods Road) offers some incredible trout fishing (rainbows and brookies). This area is also a favored spot for Atlantic salmon broodstock fishing. The water flow in this river is excellent now, and the pools and riffles offer a great variety of habitats for fly, bait or spin fishing. Also try the bigger water below Eastman Falls Dam in Franklin (catch and release area). Colorful streamers work well on these salmon. Don't forget to pick up your brood stock Atlantic salmon permit and tags for this wonderful fishery. Area brooks have been stocked and the dry spell this spring has left water levels low, so don't procrastinate, get out and treat yourself to some tasty squaretails!
PONDS
Brook trout ponds in the area are producing limit catches of rainbows and brookies. Saltmarsh Pond/Gilford, Spectacle Pond/Groton and Perch Pond/Campton are great trout ponds. Hatches of caddis are in full swing on ponds throughout the area. Upper Hall Pond (Sandwich), White Pond (Ossipee), and Sky Pond (New Hampton), are fly-fishing only ponds where the angler can be treated to some fantastic dry-fly action now.
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.m.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
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N.H. WEEKLY FISHING REPORT -- May 14, 2009
In today's report, seasonal fisheries technician Shane Eaton explains what he and the other fisheries folks are up to this summer in the Great North Woods.
STOCKING TRUCKS ARE ROLLING... 150+ sites were stocked with fish last week! Visit: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fish_stock_current.htm
BROOD STOCK SALMON - The time is now! All 760 brood stock Atlantic salmon slated for spring release have been stocked into the Merrimack and Pemigewassett rivers, and successful anglers are already reporting successful brood stock salmon fishing on both rivers. Info: http://www.wildnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/brood_stock_salmon_051109.html
BIG BROOK BOG in Pittsburg will not be fishable (and will not be stocked) this season - an issue with the dam has necessitated a water drawdown. Info: http://www.fishnh.com/Newsroom/News_2009/News_2009_Q2/Big_Brook_Bog_drawdown.html Purchase your fishing license online at http://www.FishNH.com, or from any Fish and Game license agent. Don't forget -- kids under 16 fish free in N.H.! All NH fishing page: http://www.fishnh.com/Fishing/fishing.htm.
If you know someone who might like to sign up for the Fishing Report, send them to http://www.fishnh.com/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.
Fish New Hampshire and relax... We have what you're looking for.
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MY BROOK TROUT SUMMER
By Shane Eaton, seasonal fisheries technician, Region 1/Lancaster
After a long cold winter, the ice has finally left the lakes and ponds of northern New Hampshire, the summer fishing season has begun and the Fish and Game seasonal interns have started work. These seasonal positions are hard work, fun, and key to a successful summer season for Fish and Game, and they give much-needed experience to college students and aspiring fisheries biologists. My name is Shane Eaton, and I'm a summer intern working with fisheries biologist Dianne Timmins out of Fish and Game's Region 1 office in Lancaster. My fellow interns and I will be collecting data for the Eastern Brook Trout Joint Venture (EBTJV). The EBTJV project officially starts in mid-May, but since mid-April, I've been assisting with several fisheries projects in the Great North Woods: spawning pike netting in Partridge Lake in Littleton and Jericho Lake in Berlin; smelt collection in Cedar Pond in Milan and Christine Lake in Stark; and the distribution of hundreds of thousands of Atlantic salmon into the streams of northern New Hampshire. There are any number of different projects and chores that will keep me and the other interns very busy all summer long. I'm returning to EBTJV for a second year, after being part of the crew that piloted the project last summer. The project started a few years back, in a meeting among 17 states and several independent agencies concerned over declining brook trout populations. In this meeting, participants discussed a lack of critical habitat data for this species, and New Hampshire was no exception, with many areas with no data on brook trout. Through grants and Federal Aid, existing data on brook trout in NH has been compiled and areas needing data have been identified. We're now collecting new data in three main areas: human interactions and manipulation of the habitat; natural habitat (substrate, cover, and structure of the stream); and the presence and health of the native brook trout population. Data collection is rigorous work for even the most fit interns. Many habitat sites to be studied are remote and getting there requires hiking long distances with big, heavy, and clumsy gear. After hiking out to a site, the fun begins with electro-fishing a small section of the stream. Fish in the section are collected, sampled and recorded, and a visual habitat assessment and physical characteristics of the section are recorded. Later, this data will be entered and analyzed back at the office on rainy days. With data from states up and down the east coast, a draft conservation plan is slowly coming together to deal with the current threats to the brook trout population. In addition to this, corrective measures will be suggested on a watershed-by-watershed basis. If you see the crews out there this summer, give us a wave and know that this study will ensure that anglers like you and me will be catching fat and healthy brook trout well into the future.
(Shane Eaton of Lunenburg, Vt. graduated from Unity College in 2007 with a bachelors degree in Wildlife Biology. Since graduation, Shane has been traveling and working around the country as a seasonal biologist -- starting in southern California, then making his way to the Bering Sea as a fisheries observer (an onboard biologist) on fishing vessels in the winter, and returning to New Hampshire Fish and Game in the summer.)
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Copyright 2009 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Comments or questions concerning this list should be directed to jane.m.vachon@wildlife.nh.gov.
Change your profile or unsubscribe: http://www.mailermailer.com/x?u=29339959d-6f88f7aa
To subscribe to other N.H. Fish and Game lists: http://www.mailermailer.com/x?oid=06969k