One of the most popular days on big-game hunters calendars will soon be here!
Opening day of deer season arrives on Nov. 17, and will run until Dec. 9. The long-range weather forecast predicts cooler weather, with temperatures in the 40's dropping into the 30's in the evening.
Those individuals who make a living predicting peak deer-movement times indicate that the bucks should still be actively chasing around in the woods looking for does. Hunters who are able to place themselves in the right place at the right time will be successful. Provided their aim is true.
Article Photos
OBSERVER photo by Gene Pauszek
Firearms season for big game opens Saturday. Both deer and bear season will be open.
With a lack of snow cover on the ground, the deer have the advantage blending into their surroundings. Playing the waiting game, often called being on post, will be the preffered tactic, at least for the first few hours of the hunt. I have always made note of when the first gunshot rings out and where most of the gunfire seems to come from.
Safety never takes a day off, so always make sure of your target and what is beyond before firing. The OBSERVER ran a nice advertisement during the week reviewing safety rules. Just a few more to add: Some of you hunters are like me, not getting any younger and carrying a few more pounds than we care to have. Take it easy and pace yourself. If you need assistance, carry a cell phone (make sure it is charged) and call if you need help.
Stay out of unfamiliar tree stands, especially if they are wooden ones. If you come across someone in need of assistance, lend a hand. They will remember and may return the favor. Keep off private property. If you wander on and are asked to leave, do so without argument.
We at the sports page would like to continue with the 'Tags of the Week.' If you take a deer and would like to share your photo or story, call at 366-1772, 467-2079 or 366-3000 ext. 5, after 5 p.m. If you elect to take your own photo, try not to display the cavity and minamize any blood. Treat the animal with respect. And smile, you got your deer!
Offshore boaters are changing boats for firearms in most cases. Rick Miller, in Irving, reports that perch seekers were finding success off of Cattaraugus Creek in 50 feet of water when the lake calmed down.
The 'Cat' is still running muddy, but smaller hard-bottom creeks should give up some trout. At the NY Walleye Association meeting on Tuesday, some of the members divulged they had good luck with big perch near the Lewiston boat ramp in 15 feet of water, using fresh-dipped emerald shiners. Jim Markham, from the Department of Environmental Conservation Fisheries Station, reports that there were a number of perch fishermen off Sturgeon Point in about 50 feet of water on Wednesday. Launching might be tough because of a sand bar, so bring an oar or push pole.
Calendar:
The SAREP Youth Fly Fishing Program will begins its 14th season of free fly tying and fly fishing classes on Monday evenings from 7-8:30 p.m., at the Fredonia Middle School Cafeteria. Field trips will occur shortly afterwards. Classes are free and are open to children and community members. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The classes will continue to meet every Monday until early summer.
The Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club also will host free fly tying instruction compliments of Willie Fedrick, Jeffrey Rasmus, Ken Hollander and Monte Kennedy on Monday evenings starting at 6 p.m. All are welcome.
The Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club will resume its annual Hunters Helping the Hungry program. On Tuesdays, Con Club members are urged to bring a non-perishable food item with them. All donations will be distributed to the needy in the community through the efforts of the Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Youth Organization during the Christmas season.
Fly tying classes have resumed on Monday evenings from 6-8 p.m., at the Sinclairville Free Library. Classes will continue until May. All tools and materials are provided free. For more information, call 962-3635 or 485-3919 or log on www.countrykidsonthefly.blogspot.com.
Gene Pauszek is an OBSERVER outdoors columnist. Send comments to sports@observertoday.com.
