North American Fishing Club Connecticut

selling gear

capt kerry — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:08:53 GMT

imselling some gear, takl box with 200 new spoons with lazer hooks..multi colors most 3-4" long.....ill try to post pics

Connecticut Members Sign-In Here ...

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 16:37:48 GMT

Originally posted by: BigDog68 on 7/15/2007 1:31:17 PM

Connecticut Members List:

01.OHMYGOD ...Suffield
02.matt5456 ... Location ?
03.Gaubatz,Bob ... Location ?
04.P.W. ... Location ?
05.mikerog719 ... Middlebury
06.DAVEF ... Simsbury
07.ctesox...Middletown

If you need to be added to this list or have changes that need to be made to this list, just reply to this post and it will be taken care of. Thanks & Have a great day...

DEEP Commissioner Bringing “Commissioner in Your Corner” to Quinebaug Valley Trout Hatchery, Central Village

tcarrier — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 12:42:02 GMT

DEEP Commissioner Bringing “Commissioner in Your Corner” to Quinebaug Valley Trout Hatchery, Central Village

Public invited to take a tour of the hatchery and speak with Commissioner on Thursday, April 5

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Commissioner Daniel C. Esty is bringing his “Commissioner in Your Corner” series to the Quinebaug Valley Trout Hatchery in Central Village at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 5, 2012.

After a speaking program and Q & A session, Commissioner Esty will lead a tour of the hatchery with fisheries biologists. One focus of the tour will be energy efficiency improvements planned for the hatchery. The public is invited to participate in these events – and there will be an opportunity to discuss energy and environmental issues of interest.

5:00 p.m. – Speaking Ceremony and Q & A by Commissioner Esty
5:30 p.m. - Tour of hatchery

Commissioner Esty said, “Quinebaug Valley Trout Hatchery is tucked away in the ‘quiet corner’ and provides 549,000 trout for stocking Connecticut’s waterways each year. As one of three hatcheries in Connecticut it conserves and protects fish and their habitats for the benefit of people in Connecticut.”

“The ‘Commissioner in Your Corner’ events are designed to highlight the tremendous natural resources our state enjoys and also make certain that I am available to meet and hear from the public. The ‘Commissioner in Your Corner’ initiative is a way to accomplish both these goals. It gives me the opportunity to visit and tour an important location such as the Quinebaug Valley Trout Hatchery, and to talk with residents about energy and environmental issues,” added Esty.

2012 RECREATIONAL FISHING MEASURES

tcarrier — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:43:49 GMT

Notice to Recreational Fishermen

March 14, 2012

2012 RECREATIONAL FISHING MEASURES
Under authority of Sections 26-25 and 26-159a of the Connecticut General Statutes and Section 26-159a-22 of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies, the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection is authorized to establish or adjust, by declaration, closed seasons, length limits, creel limits, trip limits and trip limit adjustment values in order to meet the harvest level for efficient management and to comply with interstate fishery management plans adopted by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC).
Regulations governing recreational fishing are amended as follows:
Black Sea Bass:
Open Season: June 15 to December 31, inclusive, Minimum Size: 13 inches, Creel Limit: 15 fish;
Scup:
Open Season: May 1 – December 31, inclusive, Minimum Size: 10.5 inches, Creel Limit: 20 fish;
except that on vessels holding a party/charter registration with DEEP, the minimum size is 11 inches and from September 1 to October 31 the possession limit for paying passengers is 40 fish.
Summer Flounder:
Open Season: May 15 to October 31, inclusive, Minimum Size: 18 inches, Creel Limit: 5 fish;
Tautog:
Minimum Size at all times: 16 inches.
Open Season: April 1 to April 30, inclusive, Creel Limit: 2 fish;
Open Season: July 1 to August 31, inclusive, Creel Limit: 2 fish;
Open Season: October 10 to December 6, inclusive, Creel Limit: 4 fish;
Enhanced Opportunity Shore Angler Program:
At 42 public fishing sites (the list will be posted soon atwww.ct.gov/deep/fishing by clicking on "saltwater recreational"), the minimum sizes are adjusted as follows:
Summer flounder: Minimum Size: 16 inches, (Open Season: May 15 to October 31, 5 fish limit);
Scup: Minimum Size: 9 inches, (Open Season: May 1 to December 31, 20 fish limit).
Striped Bass Bonus Fishery Program:
The striped bass bonus fishery introduced on the Connecticut River only in 2011 is expanded to all state waters in 2012. During May and June, anglers possessing a valid 2012 Connecticut Bonus Striped Bass Voucher may possess one striped bass in the designated slot of at least 22 inches but less than 28 inches total length for each voucher possessed, up to two bonus fish per day, provided the angler immediately fills out the voucher recording the date caught and the total length in ink. The vouchers must be kept with the fish until the angler returns home then the voucher must be mailed back to Marine Fisheries (the vouchers are pre-addressed and postage paid on the reverse side). Vouchers will be distributed at selected DEEP facilities, by EnCon Officers, Marine Angler Survey creel agents and other outlets. Further details on this program will be announced in a subsequent notice.
In addition, anglers are reminded that the possession limit for winter flounderis 2 fish and for weakfish 1 fish. Refer to the 2012 Angler’s Guide for complete Marine Recreational Fishing Regulations. The Guide is expected to be delivered from the printer to licensing outlets beginning April 4.
For further information, contact the DEEP Marine Fisheries Division by email atdep.marine.fisheries@ct.gov, by mail at P.O. Box 719, Old Lyme, CT 06371 or by telephone at 860.434.6043 between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and service provider. In conformance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, DEP makes every effort to provide equally effective services for persons with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities who need this information in an alternative format, to allow them to benefit and/or participate in the agency’s programs and services, should call 860-424-3051 or 860-418-5937 or e-mail Marcia Bonitto, ADA Coordinator, at dep.aaoffice@ct.gov . Persons who are hearing impaired should call the State of Connecticut relay number 711. Requests for accommodations must be made at least two weeks prior to the program date.

Norwich angles for bigger boat launch

tcarrier — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 01:45:50 GMT

Norwich, Conn. —

If the Harbor Management Commission has its way, the city’s boat launch at Howard T. Brown Memorial Park would be relocated to a larger site off Shipping Street with direct access to the Thames River.

Officials next week will tour two parcels at the former industrial site with property owners, state leaders and others in hopes of striking a deal that could free up land for a new launch

Time to prepare for fast-approaching fishing season

tcarrier — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 01:42:24 GMT

If this is the first fishing column in 2012, and it is, then it must mean fishing season is neigh, as the horses say.

And neigh it is, with the newly energized folks at the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection having begun their stocking program more than a month sooner than usual due to the unusually -- not to say bizarrely -- warm winter.

Pike spots

striped pike — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 11:58:19 GMT

Want to know where to catch Pike in CT from shore. Anywhere in the state will help. In return I will give some prime striper spots and even be willing to show you myself.

DEP Reports Didymo Discovered in the West Branch Farmington River

tcarrier — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:39:35 GMT

DEP Reports Didymo Discovered in the West Branch Farmington River
First Confirmation of this Invasive Species in Connecticut

The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today announced that the highly invasive freshwater alga, Didymosphenia geminata, known as "didymo", has been discovered in the West Branch Farmington River, a very popular trout stream in northwestern Connecticut.

One of the numerous clumps of didymo

found in the West Branch Farmington River.

The presence of didymo was first confirmed in the northeastern United States in 2007, and has since spread to other popular trout streams in a number of northeastern states (New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia and Virginia). This is the first report of didymo in Connecticut.

DEP first learned of the possible presence of didymo in the West Branch Farmington River from several anglers on March 18th. One of these anglers also provided an initial sample to DEP. Following initial review by DEP staff, samples were sent to the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation where biologists have direct experience identifying didymo. Late last Friday, Vermont officials confirmed that the sample was indeed didymo.

"This find is very troubling," said DEP Deputy Commissioner Susan Frechette. "Extensive blooms of this organism can harm the river ecosystem and decrease its recreational and economic value. In an effort to confirm identification, staff from DEP’s Bureau of Water Protection and Land Reuse surveyed a number of sites in the river and a major tributary along a seven mile stretch of the West Branch Farmington River in Hartland and Barkhamsted. Unfortunately numerous clumps of didymo were found at all the surveyed sites in the river downstream of the Riverton Bridge. Once didymo has spread, there’s no practical way to remove it from a river."

Didymo is most frequently found in cold, relatively shallow streams and rivers having a rocky bottom, characteristics that are also typical of good trout habitat. During blooms, didymo can form thick mats of material that feel like wet wool and are typically gray, white and/or brown, but never green in color. These mats form on the bottoms of rivers and streams and can potentially smother aquatic plants, aquatic insects and mollusks, impact fish habitat, and alter aquatic food chains. Dense mats of didymo can also reduce the recreational and aesthetic value of the affected river. Since didymo also prefers areas open to sunlight, it is not anticipated that this species will become problematic in smaller headwater streams as long as they have well shaded riparian and naturally forested riparian areas.

Humans are the primary vector responsible for the recent spread of didymo. Anglers, kayakers and canoeists, boaters and jet skiers can all unknowingly spread didymo. The microscopic cells can cling to fishing gear, waders (felt soles can be especially problematic), boots and boats, and remain viable for months under even slightly moist conditions. To prevent the spread of didymo to additional waters, DEP asks that anglers, especially those who also fish the Farmington River or streams outside Connecticut, and other users practice CHECK, CLEAN, DRY procedures.

CHECK: Before leaving a river, stream or lake, remove all obvious clumps of algae and plant material from fishing gear, waders, clothing & footwear, canoes & kayaks, and anything else that has been in the water and look for hidden clumps. Leave them at the site. If you find any later, clean your gear and dispose of all material in the trash.

CLEAN: Soak/spray & scrub boats and all other "hard" items for at least one minute in either very hot (140°F) water, a 2% bleach solution, or a 5% dishwashing detergent solution. Absorbent materials such as clothes and felt soles on waders should be soaked for at least 40 minutes in very hot water (140°F), or 30 minutes in hot water (115°F) with 5% dishwashing detergent. Freezing thoroughly will also kill didymo.

DRY: If cleaning is not practical, after the item is completely dry to touch, wait an additional 48 hours before contact or use in any other waterway.

The above procedures will also be effective against other unwanted organisms.

Didymo is just one of a number of aquatic invasive species that have either invaded the state or are threatening to do so. DEP will continue its work to combat the spread of invasive species, focusing on prevention, education and early detection. DEP is an active member of the Invasive Plants Council and supports both an Invasive Plant Program and an Aquatic Nuisance Species Program in collaboration with the University of Connecticut. When available, DEP has provided funding from a variety of sources to educate the public on the threats posed by invasive species and to combat specific invasive species including fanwort, water chestnut and hydrilla. In addition, the DEP has recently proposed new regulations to prohibit the possession or importation into the state of a number of invasive invertebrates.

Since its discovery in the northeast in 2007, DEP has taken additional precautions to prevent the introduction and/or spread of didymo (and other invasive species). DEP’s Inland Fisheries Division instituted an operational "Biosecurity" policy for its own field operations, including elimination of the use of felt-soled waders. Also, as part of its invasive species outreach efforts, informational fliers on didymo were distributed to many of the state’s bait & tackle shops and information about didymo has been prominently displayed in the CT Anglers Guide and on its website.

Individuals wishing to report possible sightings of didymo and other aquatic nuisance species can contact DEP’s Inland Fisheries Division at 860-424-3474. More information on didymo and other aquatic nuisance species can be found on the DEP website (www.ct.gov/dep) or in the CT Angler’s Guide (www.ct.gov/dep/lib/dep/fishing/anglers_guide/anguide.pdf). An excellent source for detailed information on didymo is the Biosecurity New Zealand web site (www.biosecurity.govt.nz/didymo).

xmas

duckman — Fri, 24 Dec 2010 04:15:18 GMT

merry xmas to all from mo

evening

duckman — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 16:29:43 GMT

evening all from mo

Shetucket River

Sun, 17 May 2009 12:15:00 GMT

Anybody fish the Shetucket River in CT. Anybody with any expierence on it please tell me ur expierences there. Thank you!

"Give a Man a Fish, Feed Him For a Day. Teach a Man to Fish, Feed Him For a Lifetime"

Fishing

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 01:58:56 GMT

Fishing is great! As you all know our permits went electronic last year.Well Miss Jodi must have seen how many of us there were. Well it doubled to $40 a year. I can get an out of state permit in Mass for $37.50.The waters better be stocked better this year!!!!! I feel most people will start fishing illegally, and it's a shame. I mean come on it's FISHING ! STOCK THE WATERS

rockville elks icefishing derby

tcarrier — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 22:27:48 GMT

WOO HOO!!! first time on the ice this season,it felt great.i dont know why i didnt make time this year to get out more,but there still time left this year we got t crystal lake at 5 am,there were alot of guys already there.we couldnt get to the spot were we normaly are.there was aready a group there. [IMG]http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h142/bigoutdoors/100_0965.jpg[/IMG] so we ot a spot alittle farther in the cove.set out our traps where we wanted holes and waited for the 7 oclock gun to go.as the sun came up you could see there were alot more fishermen than years past.our group in passed years have put in an entry ,and placed,but looking around this was going to be a challange. [IMG]http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h142/bigoutdoors/100_0968.jpg[/IMG] the gun went off and the whole lake was buzzing with augers,the game began.we drilled our hole and found out we were in water 4-8 feet,not what we were looking for, frank got a trap in and was going to put the second one in and he got the first flag.this is something that happens every year.he pulls up a small bass.nothing to weighe in [IMG]http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h142/bigoutdoors/100_0966.jpg[/IMG] i got all mine in without a flag going up.when i got back to the group i turnd,and had a flag,it was a broun trout dead middle of the slot limit 12-16".by noon we had many flags with just about all being trout in the slot,a few small bass,and a perch [IMG]http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h142/bigoutdoors/100_0967.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h142/bigoutdoors/100_0969.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h142/bigoutdoors/100_0970.jpg[/IMG] shortly after the group that beat us to the spot we wanted started yelling,they pulled up a bass that weighed 4lb8oz.it was the biggest bass i have seen come out of the lake.by 2 oclock the ending gun went off,we still had nothing for the scale.we had alot of flags,and landed alot of trout. we went back to the elks lodge to hear who won the turny,and see if our names were called for the raffles, a salmon won the turny it weighed 4 lbs 10 oz.there were over 200 entries,they also had a youth turny,this was new,and they plan on keeping the youth turny going for next year.they also told use,that they are in the works for a youth pan fish turny this spring,,and also nexts year ice derby was going to be bigger and better.and to keep an eye out on their website for the details.http://www.ctelks.org/LocalLodges/Rockville.htm

dep MARINE FISHING REPORT(2)

tcarrier — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 09:24:01 GMT

MARINE FISHING REPORT Water temperatures in Long Island Sound (LIS) are in the low to mid 60’s °F. Check out the following web sites for more detailed water temperatures and marine boating conditions: http://www.mysound.uconn.edu/stationstat.html http://marine.rutgers.edu/mrs/sat_data/?nothumbs=1 http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/ http://www.wunderground.com/MAR/AN/330.html STRIPED BASS and BLUEFISH fishing remains good throughout LIS! Fishing spots include the Watch Hill reefs, Napatree Point, Ram Island Reef in Fishers Island Sound, Thames River, the Race, Sluiceway, Pigeon Rip, Plum Gut, outer Bartlett Reef, Hatchett Reef, lower Connecticut River, Long Sand Shoal, Cornfield Point, Crane Reef, Southwest Reef, Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, the reefs off Branford, New Haven Harbor, Charles Island to Milford Point, Housatonic River, Bridgeport Harbor, Penfield Reef, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground, the reefs around the Norwalk Islands and Stamford Harbor. SNAPPER BLUEFISH fishing is winding down. TAUTOG (blackfish) fishing is also good on the local reefs and rock piles. Green crabs, hermit crabs and Asian shore crabs work well on three way bottom or slider rigs. HICKORY SHAD fishing has picked up in the lower Niantic River and Connecticut River (DEP, Marine Headquarters fishing pier and the fishing pier under Baldwin Bridge). LITTLE TUNNY (false albacore) and ATLANTIC BONITO (green bonito) fishing remains good off the Watch Hill area, south side of Fishers Island, Pine Island area, Race Rock (the Race), Little Gull Island, Sluiceway, Plum Gut, Bartlett Reef, Millstone Point area, Black Point, Hatchett Reef, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground area and off the Norwalk Islands. WHITE PERCH can be found in many of the tidal rivers, coves and creeks. Remember to check the 2009 Connecticut Angler’s Guide for tidal information (page 52) and pages 49-51 for saltwater trophy fish award information. For regulation updates, please check our website www.ct.gov/dep/fishing DEP WEEKLY FISHING REPORT CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION 79 Elm Street, Hartford, CT 06106 www.ct.gov/dep _________________

DEP Fishing Report Number 27, 10/22/2009

tcarrier — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 09:13:29 GMT

FISHING REPORT NUMBER 27 10/22/2009 IMPORTANT REMINDER TO SPORTSMEN Pursuant to the recently adopted state budget (Public Act 09-3 – June Special Session): FISHING, HUNTING AND TRAPPING LICENSE AND PERMIT FEES HAVED INCREASED (effective October 1, 2009). This includes both recreational and commercial fishing fees. Among the other fees that increased on October 1, 2009, are state park and forest fees, including parking fees, season passes and camping fees. Fishing & hunting license and permit fees are available at www.ct.gov/dep INLAND REPORT 2009 FALL BROODSTOCK ATLANTIC SALMON STOCKED LAST WEEK DEP’s Inland Fisheries Division stocked 1,100 2-5 lb broodstock Atlantic salmon into the SHETUCKET RIVER and the NAUGATUCK RIVER. An additional 200 salmon were released into CRYSTAL LAKE (Ellington) and MOUNT TOM POND (Morris/Litchfield/Washington), 100 fish into each lake. All the broodstock Atlantic salmon available for stocking in Connecticut this fall were stocked last week (October 13th-16th). This is a departure from previous years of the program, when smaller batches of salmon were stocked on multiple occasions from mid-October into late November. This change was necessitated by the need to conduct essential maintenance of hatchery ponds at the Kensington State Fish Hatchery. For the third consecutive year, DEP has stocked several lakes with broodstock Atlantic salmon. This fall, DEP stocked two lakes, one in western Connecticut (Mount Tom Pond) and one in eastern Connecticut (Crystal Lake). Beach Pond and Mashapaug Lake are the other lakes that have been stocked with broodstock salmon at least once since 2007. Broodstock atlantic salmon regulations and areas summary: Regulations for broodstock on the Shetucket and Naugatuck Rivers. In rivers, angling for Atlantic salmon is restricted to CATCH-AND-RELEASE ONLY through November 30. From December 1, 2009, through March 31, 2010, the daily creel limit for Atlantic salmon will be one. During the open season in the rivers, the legal method for taking Atlantic salmon is limited to angling using a single fly, or an artificial lure with a single free swinging hook and no additional weight can be added to the line above the fly or lure. On the Shetucket River, anglers can fish for salmon downstream from the Scotland Dam (Windham) to the Water Street Bridge in Norwich (the first bridge upstream of Norwich Harbor). The salmon are stocked into one designated Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Area, from the Scotland Dam to the Occum Dam. Anglers are allowed to fish for salmon in the Naugatuck River from the confluence of the East and West Branches (Torrington) downstream to the Housatonic River (Derby). Anglers may also fish for Atlantic salmon in the Housatonic River downstream of Derby Dam. The salmon are stocked into two designated Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Areas on the Naugatuck River, the “Campville Section” of the upper Naugatuck River from Route 118 downstream to the Thomaston Flood Control Dam (Litchfield-Thomaston) and the “Beacon Falls Section” of the lower Naugatuck, from Prospect Street (Naugatuck) downstream to Pines Bridge Road (Route 42 bridge, Beacon Falls).Note that in the Beacon Falls area, DEP is no longer stocking the area along the RR tracks in Naugatuck State Forest due to safety concerns. From October 1st through March 31st, fishing for other species in these designated Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Areas is restricted to the gear legal for Atlantic salmon. The regulations for broodstock Atlantic salmon released into lakes and ponds are different from the regulations for salmon on the Naugatuck and Shetucket Rivers. In each lake, the regulations for methods, seasons and minimum lengths for salmon will be the same as for trout in that specific water body but the daily creel limit will be one salmon per day. (Please refer to the 2009 CT Angler’s Guide for trout regulations). ATLANTIC SALMON – The recently stocked broodstock salmon are already providing some good action for anglers. A number of catches (and lots of strikes) have been reported from the Naugatuck River, and jumping salmon are reportedly putting on a show for anglers at Crystal Lake, with at least five 2-5 lb salmon weighed earlier this week. Some action is also reported from the Shetucket River, but nothing’s been heard from Mt Tom 2009 DEP Fishing Report Number 27, 10/22/2009 Pond yet. Several recent catches have also been reported from two lakes stocked last spring, Mashapaug Lake and Beach Pond. TROUT Fall trout stocking update- This week DEP is stocking a total of 6,200 adult-size brown trout into nine lakes and ponds located throughout CT. Bashan Lake (450), Beach Pond (1,650), Coventry Lake (1,000), Mohawk Pond (500), Mt. Tom Pond (650), Stillwater Pond (400), Tyler Pond (600), West Hill Pond (500) and West Side Pond (450) all should be stocked for the weekend. Rivers & streams - It’s mid fall and anglers are starting to find some really aggressive trout. Conditions for fishing this weekend will again be variable. Flows and temperatures are currently moderate, but rain, possibly heavy at times, is forecast for the start of the weekend. Streamers (try 2X tippet, 9 am-1 pm, low light periods/overcast days) and nymphing are working for many anglers. Streamer patterns (try white, yellow & brown colors) include White Wooly Buggers, Muddlers, Micky Finn, and Grey or Black Ghosts (#4-10). Nymphs to bottom-bounce include Caddis pupa (#14-16), Serendipity (#14-16), Pheasant Tail (#12-20), Prince (#6-1, Golden Stoneflies (# and Hare’s ear (#8-20). Good reports last week from the Housatonic River, Naugatuck River, West Branch Farmington River, Hammonasset River and Willimantic River (TMA area). Farmington River – Fishing has been getting better. West Branch flows remain clear, moderate and quite fishable, 120 cfs at Riverton, plus an additional 120 cfs from the Still River. The increase in Still River flows is due to the current drawing down of Highland Lake, and inputs may increase further as rain is forecast for early this weekend. Morning water temperatures are in the upper 40’s to low 50’s °F. Hatches/patterns include Isonychia (#10-14, parachute style), Blue Wing Olives (#18-26, mid-late afternoon), Ants (#14-20 on rainy days), Caddis (tan #18-22, all day; brown #16-1, Midges (#22-32, morning) and Rusty Spinner (#26-2. Housatonic River – Fishing continues to be very good. Flows remain clear, moderate and very fishable, currently 580 cfs at Falls Village and 710 cfs at Gaylordsville. Water temperatures are in the upper 40’s to low upper 50’s °F (mornings). Flows may increase this weekend as rain is currently forecast for Friday night and Saturday, with a potential for 1-3 inches. Anglers can call FirstLight Power at 1-888-417-4837 for updated flow information. Hatches/patterns include Blue Wing Olive (#18-26, early morning; spinner fall in evening), Isonychia (#10-12 evening), Sulfurs (#16-1, Midges (#20-26) and Black caddis (#14-18, early morning & evening). Lakes & Ponds – Fall trout is variable, with good to very good reports from Crystal Lake (very good, lots of browns and rainbows being seen, up shallower), Saugatuck Reservoir, East Twin Lake (look close to shore), and Quonnipaug Lake (try trolling the deeper end), and fair fishing reported from Beach Pond (near the beach and north point, Shore Road area). Catches have been really hard to come by at Mashapaug Lake and Candlewood Lake. LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing is generally fair to slow, with the better reports from Crystal Lake (recent catches here include several bass in the 4-6 lb range), Candlewood Lake, Lake Lillinonah, Highland Lake, Mudge Pond, Rogers Lake and Mansfield Hollow Reservoir. Mixed reports for East Twin Lake, Coventry Lake and Bashan Lake, and it’s been slow for bass at Gardner Lake, Quonnipaug Lake and Mashapaug Lake. SMALLMOUTH BASS - A very mixed bag for anglers looking for smallies. Good reports from Candlewood Lake (very good action, try around 30 ft near structure) and Highland Lake (catches here include a 4.4 lb smallie, but…note that an 8-ft drawdown is in progress), fair action reported from Lake Lillinonah and Squantz Pond, and it’s been hard finding fish at Mashapaug Lake, Gardner Lake and Quonnipaug Lake. NORTHERN PIKE – Temperatures are dropping, and pike fishing is beginning to pick up. Some nice catches reported from Winchester Lake and anglers are also finding some fish at Quaddick Reservoir (but nothing big yet) and in the upper Housatonic River. Other areas to try include Pachaug Pond, Hopeville Pond and Lake Lillinonah. WALLEYE fishing is also improving, with fair to good reports from Squantz Pond (catches up to 6 lbs), Saugatuck Reservoir and Lake Saltonstall. Some action also reported from Coventry Lake. Few reports lately from Mashapaug Lake and Beach Pond. 2009 DEP Fishing Report Number 27, 10/22/2009 CONNECTICUT RIVER – CARP provided some excellent action for last week’s Tournament of Champions. The “Catch-And-Release Professional Carp Tournament Series” 6th annual Tournament of Champions yielded over 1,670 pounds of fish during the 72-hour continuous event. Anglers from Europe, England and the U.S.A. participated. The big fish weighed 36 lbs 7 oz and was caught by the team of Karen Howland/Carol Howland. The Big 4 category weight was 110 lbs 9 oz. won by Chris Jackson/Paul Jackson. The Jackson team also won the total weight category with a whopping 614 lb 4 oz total on 34 fish. Congratulations to all. NORTHERN PIKE fishing is fair, with catches up reported from the coves, but nothing over 30 inches. BLACK CRAPPIE continue to keep fall anglers occupied in many coves, fish up to 15 inches, try jigging small shiners. STRIPED BASS action is good in the lower river (try just after dark on hickory shad and tube & worm). SMALLMOUTH BASS are surprising some anglers, with several 3-lb plus smallies caught in the Cromwell area. Tips & Tricks: AUTUMN ATLANTIC SALMON Trolling for Salmon - Trolling is one of the most effective ways to fish for salmon and remains one of the top techniques because of water coverage. Try using your favorite trout lures in a larger size and increase your trolling speed. You will see fish in the air if you hook up. Drift fishing has been one of the most successful techniques for salmon fishing. Drifting a water craft while fishing for salmon can be a very relaxing method of getting out on a cool fall day. Jigging For Salmon - Jigging for salmon in freshwater systems is becoming very popular among anglers seeking the ever illusive salmon in freshwater rivers. Remember to use a free-swinging setup such as a swivel with a micro-jig on it. Pink is your go-to color. Cast upstream with a noodle rod or other light rod held high and follow the current with your rod. Maribou jigs work great. Flyfishing - Catching a trout on a fly rod is one thing, but when you multiply what's on the other end by 10 or more it is easy to see the appeal of it. Try flashy flies, streamers or weighted nymphs. Centerpin – Centerpin fishing involves a special reel which is designed to ‘free wheel’ easily. This will cause the least amount of drag on the water and lure when fishing for high strung salmon & helps reduce scaring the fish. Bottom bouncing for salmon has really come a long way in the world of salmon anglers and is a very productive way to fish. Try casting a weighted nymph up and across stream. Let it bounce on the bottom and repeatedly raise and lower it as the current takes it downstream. NOTICES: An 8 foot drawdown of HIGHLAND LAKE began last week (October 15th). “Winter” drawdowns (2-4 feet) of a number of Eastern CT lakes began last week (October 15th) at GARDNER LAKE, LOWER BOLTON LAKE, PICKEREL LAKE and MASHAPAUG LAKE. Drawdowns begin this week at BASHAN LAKE and BESECK LAKE, and next week at MIDDLE BOLTON LAKE. LAKE ZOAR is currently drawn down 5 feet with refilling scheduled to begin October 25th. LAKE LILLINONAH is scheduled to be drawn down 3-5 feet beginning October 24th and ending November 1st. To facilitate dam maintenance and repairs, an extensive drawdown of RAINBOW RESERVOIR has been ongoing and the state boat launch may be unusable due to the low water levels. Normal operations are expected to resume next week. ASPINOOK POND continues to be drawn down 30 inches to facilitate dam maintenance. Areas such as the Butts Bridge lot used by many anglers/boaters to access the impoundment may be difficult to impossible to use by trailered boats. The STATE BOAT LAUNCH ON THE HOUSATONIC RIVER IN MILFORD at the MOSES WHEELER BRIDGE area is now closed to public use while bridge reconstruction occurs. This closure is expected to last possibly 8 years. Anglers are reminded that the fishing season will close October 31st at several lakes and ponds throughout the state, including LAKE WONOSCOPOMUC, BATTERSON PARK POND and SHENIPSIT RESERVOIR. Please refer to the 2009 CT angler’s Guide for additional locations. 2009 DEP Fishing Report Number 27, 10/22/2009

encon september highlites

tcarrier — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:53:02 GMT

SEPTEMBER HIGHLIGHTS MARINE DISTRICT Boating Accidents On 9/3/09 at approximately 9:30 p.m., the Guilford Police Department notified the EnCon Police of a report of a serious boating accident that occurred in the area of Old Quarry Rd. An open power boat had struck a sea wall and there were injuries reported. Officers Mieldzioc, Persico, Ruggiero and Chemacki initially responded to the scene. Upon arriving, they found that one of the vessel occupants had been pronounced dead on the scene and three other persons had been transported to area hospitals, one with critical injuries. Sgt. Healy, Lundin and Capt. Overturf responded to the scene while Officers Hey and Reilly were dispatched to the hospitals where the accident victims were taken. Guilford and Branford Fire Departments were on scene along with the U.S. Coast Guard conducting a water search of the area for more victims. Initially it was not known how many persons were on the vessel when it struck the sea wall. When Officer Reilly was able to confirm with the vessel’s owner that there were only four persons on board when the accident occurred the search was discontinued. The vessel was seized and transported to Old Lyme Headquarters so the Boating Accident Reconstruction Unit could examine the vessel. The investigation into the cause of the accident is continuing. On 9/6/09 at approximately 7:30 a.m., the EnCon Police were notified of an on-going search for a missing kayaker in Long Island Sound off of Milford near Charles Island. The report indicated that two males had taken a kayak out to Charles Island around 1:00 am and had swamped it returning to shore. One of the occupants was able to swim to a sailboat but the other occupant was missing. A water search was being conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard, Milford Fire Department and West Haven Fire Department. Acting Sergeant Kane and Officers Samorajczyk and Logiodice responded to the scene. Acting Sergeant Kane and Officer Samorajczyk assisted with the water search and Officer Logiodice was dispatched to the hospital to interview the other occupant. The search continued through the day with no results and was called off the next day around noon. The other occupant has not been recovered. The EnCon Police are investigating the accident. Interfering On 9/1/09, EnCon Police Officer DeFelice was checking for fishing and crabbing activity along the East River in Guilford where he observed two men crabbing from a small boat near Rt. 1. Officer DeFelice signaled for the men in the boat to come to shore so he could inspect their catch. The operator of the vessel ignored Officer DeFelice and headed north up the river past a small marina just north of the Rt. 1 Bridge. Officer DeFelice went to the marina where the owner met him complaining about the wake and speed of the boat that just went by. The marina owner agreed to give Officer DeFelice a ride in a vessel in an attempt to locate the vessel that had fled. Officer DeFelice found the vessel and the two occupants hiding under the I-95 overpass. The operator immediately began swearing at Officer DeFelice, and threatening him. The operator finally agreed to bring his vessel to a nearby marina. When they arrived at the marina, the vessel operator refused to give his name to Officer DeFelice and refused to get off his boat. Officer DeFelice told him he was under arrest and attempted to escort him off the boat. The operator refused, began swearing at Officer DeFelice and threatened him. Officer DeFelice began struggling with the subject in an attempt to handcuff him but the subject resisted and began fighting with Officer DeFelice. Officer Chickos arrived on scene and the two officers were able to subdue the subject. The subject was transported to Troop F for processing. He was charged with Interfering with an Officer, Disorderly Conduct, Failure to Stand By for Inspection and Violation of Boating Regulations. Scup Violations On 9/22/09, EnCon Police Officer Tavares was on vessel patrol of Fisher’s Island Sound in Stonington. He observed three males fishing from a vessel and upon inspection noticed two coolers with a large quantity of scup. Officer Tavares counted the scup and found the three to be in possession of over 80 scup, which is 50 over their possession limit. There were also numerous fish that measured less than the minimum legal length. All three subjects were issued infractions for the violations and the fished seized. EASTERN DISTRICT Fatal Boating Accident On 9/11/09 , two individuals were fishing in Lake Terramuggus in Marlborough. One of the individuals was let off of the rowboat they were fishing from to warm up in the car, while the other individual continued to fish the lake. After approximately 1 hour the individual that was on shore attempted to summon the man in the boat without success and saw the rowboat anchored on the Western shore, unoccupied. EnCon Police Officers, Connecticut State Police, Marlborough and Colchester Rescue Units were called to the scene and immediately began a search for the missing 56 year old man. He was later found deceased in close proximity to the vessel by the State Police Dive Team with the aid of side scan sonar. Captain O’Connell, Sgt. Dwyer and Officers Ruggiero and Marvin responded. The accident is under investigation. Suspected Arson 9/28/09, EnCon Police Officer Lindo was dispatched to Bolton Notch State Park to a report of a car fire. Upon his arrival he was greeted by Connecticut State Police who advised that the operator of a car was in custody and was committed to the hospital on an emergency basis. He was found near his burning vehicle, unresponsive and is a suspect in the arson of that vehicle. Responding K-9 units reacted positively for accelerants and the Connecticut State Police Major Crime Squad is investigating. Public Safety/Medical Assists Eastern District EnCon Police Officers responded to numerous safety and medical incidents in September. On the 9/6, Officer Ruggiero was at Haddam Meadows State Park and was advised that a child near the launch area was in medical distress. He ascertained that the child experienced a near drowning and was pulled from the Connecticut River after being submerged for about a minute. The child was transported to Middlesex Hospital in Middletown after experiencing breathing problems. On 9/13 and 16, Officer Ruggiero assisted Connecticut State Police with two incidents; one in Middlefield that was a domestic violence incident and the other incident in Haddam involved searching for a vehicle that struck a pedestrian. On the 9/18, Officer Lindo assisted with the successful rescue of a lost hiker in Nehantic State Forest in Lyme and on the 9/22 with a medical assist of a motorcycle accident in Meshomasic State Forest in Glastonbury. The subject in that crash was treated at Middlesex Hospital for numerous suspected leg fractures. On the 9/19, Officer Danielson responded to a medical assist of a woman who was thrown from her horse at Natchaug State Forest requiring her evacuation by Life Star Helicopter and Officer Williams assisted with the search and rescue of two people who were lost in Old Furnace State Park in Killingly on the 9/27. Disorderly Conduct On 9/5/09, EnCon Police Officer Rose was dispatched to an incident in Pachaug State Forest in North Stonington where a witness observed an individual who was shooting an AK-47 assault rifle in the forest. A suspect vehicle registration was obtained, empty shell casings were seized and a suspect was developed. The case is still under investigation pending location of the suspect. WESTERN DISTRICT Sturgeon Arrest On 9/4/09, EnCon Police Officer Wojcik checked the Windsor Meadows State Park and observed a vehicle parked across from the boat launch. The owner of the vehicle was known to Officer Wojcik through past fishing violations. Approximately two hours later Officer Wojcik observed the subject paddling a raft to the river's edge just below the launch area. The subject then walked up to his vehicle carrying a fishing pole and a 5 gallon bucket filled with bags and tackle. Officer Wojcik approached the subject and asked if he had caught any fish. The subject replied "No" and shook his head also indicating he did not catch any fish. Officer Wojcik then checked the bucket and found a federally protected Short nose Sturgeon, approximately 1 foot long, in a plastic bag at the bottom of the bucket with numerous fishing tackle on top. Officer Wojcik then informed the subject that he had caught a sturgeon and that it was federally protected. The subject, who had a limited understanding of English indicated that he did not understand. Officer Wojcik arrested the subject for Illegal Possession of a Sturgeon. The Special Agent for US Fish & Wildlife was contacted but declined to pursue Federal charges against the subject as he only had one small fish in possession. Fall in State Forest On 9/24/09 at 7:30pm, EnCon Police Sergeant K. Schneider and Officers K. Williams and Hey responded to the High Rock area of Naugatuck State Forest in Beacon Falls for a report of a person who fell off the steep rocks in the area. Two men and a woman had been hiking in the forest during the afternoon and while trying to make their way back out to their vehicle had slipped and fell down the steep slope. One of the men and the woman fell approximately fifty feet off of a rock cliff and tumbled over sixty feet before finally stopping. The other man was able to grab onto a tree to prevent him from going over the edge. The man and woman who fell off the cliff were rescued by the Beacon Falls Fire Department and transported to Waterbury Hospital for treatment. Officer Williams determined from the three individuals that they had been drinking alcohol provided by one of the men prior to the accident. The woman was under 21 years of age and as a result, the subject that provided her with the alcohol was arrested for permitting a minor to possess alcohol. EnCon Police Extradite Wanted Person from New York State In November 2008, EnCon Police Officers Stanko and Hilli arrested a New Milford resident on charges related to illegally killing a 13 point buck in the town of Washington. On 5/1/09 when the subject went to trial on the charges, the subject’s 25 year old nephew, also of New Milford, testified under oath as a defense witness in court in Bantam Superior Court. The subject testified that although he never hunted a day in his life, nor fired a rifle, he shot the 13 point buck in question in his uncle's trial. The subject testified he used a "223 rifle" to shoot a deer in Washington. As the subject was a convicted felon, he was advised by court personnel that he could face a minimum penalty of two years in prison in the state of Connecticut for possessing a firearm and he was asked if he wanted to continue to incriminate himself. The subject stated he wanted to continue and testified that he shot the deer and gave further details. On 5/8/09 the trial against the original subject found him guilty and the court convicted him of probation violation and illegal hunting violations which resulted in a sentence of 9 months in prison. As a result of his testimony, an arrest warrant was issued in June of 2009 for the subject’s nephew for the charges of: Negligent Hunting; Hunting/Discharge firearm from Public Highway; Illegal Hunting of White Tail Deer; Hunting without a License; and Criminal Possession of Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Officers Stanko and Hilli attempted to locate the subject throughout the summer of 2009. In September of 2009, the EnCon Police officers assisted by the New Milford Police Department learned that the subject was in custody in the state of New York on a 45 day jail sentence for motor vehicle and reckless endangerment charges relating to a high speed pursuit in Warren County New York and was being held at the Warren County Sheriff's Office in Lake George New York. EnCon Police officers requested that extradition proceedings begin for the subject which was granted by the Superior Court in Bantam. On 9/24/09 the subject was released from the Warren County New York correctional center and taken into custody by Officers Stanko and Hilli. The subject was returned to Connecticut where he was held on a $10,000.00 bond pending trial. Tranquilized Moose On 9/9/09 a moose sighting was received via phone regarding a young bull on Route 8 near the water treatment plant in Winsted. Six additional website reports and a few phone calls of a young bull came in over the next two weeks from the towns of Watertown and Middlebury. As reported sightings indicated the moose was apparently near Interstate 84, DEP staff was prepared to immobilize the moose at the earliest opportunity, to prevent the possibility of a moose-vehicle collision. On 9/25 the moose was sighted in an office park 150 yards north of Route 84 in Southbury. EnCon Police officers arrived on the scene and warned motorists and onlookers of the potential concerns regarding the moose. The EnCon Police Tranquilizer team was fortunate to get the moose in a safe location where it could be immobilized. The DEP Team, which also included staff from Wildlife, and several local police officers carried the bull from the woods to the back of a pick-truck where it was prepared for transport. The five point bull that traveled over 20 miles, was estimated to weigh over 600 pounds based on body measurements and was fitted with a GPS collar and ear tags (#6). The moose was transported to Northern Connecticut where its movements will be tracked on a weekly basis. Coordinated efforts between local police, EnCon police and wildlife staff was critical to the success of these efforts __________________ Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection Connecticut State Environmental Conservation Police Captain Raul Camejo raul.camejo@ct.gov

encon august highlites

tcarrier — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:49:23 GMT

MARINE DISTRICT Sexual Assault On 8/6/09, EnCon Police Officer Schreiner, while on patrol of Hammonasset Beach State Park, received a complaint of an attempted sexual assault in the park. Officer Schreiner met with the complainant who stated that a male subject had invited him into his motor home in one of the day use areas of the park. While inside the motor home, the owner fondled the complainant who escaped from the motor home. The complainant got the registration of the motor home, which was registered out of Florida, but it could not be located inside the park. A BOLO was put out to surrounding Troops. The last known Connecticut address of the registered owner was in Branford and Capt. Overturf had the Branford Police Dept. respond to that address to see if the motor home was there. Branford Police Dept. confirmed the motor home was at the residence and Capt. Overturf and Officer Reilly responded to Branford. Capt. Overturf interviewed the registered owner who admitted to being in the park and admitted that the complainant was inside his motor home. He claimed he never touched the complainant. Officers Schreiner and Lewin transported the complainant to Branford who positively identified the subject as the person who assaulted him. The subject was taken into custody and transported to Troop F where he was charged with Sexual Assault in the fourth degree. He was released on a promise to appear. BUI/Interfering On 08/15/09 at approximately 1830, EnCon Police Officer Samorajczyk and Acting Sergeant Kane were conducting boating safety checks as part of a Boating Enforcement Initiative at the Devon State Access Area on the Housatonic River in Milford. The officers observed a vessel approach the boat ramp with four persons on board. The operator of the vessel appeared intoxicated and was uncooperative. As Officer Samorajczyk and Acting Sergeant Kane attempted to obtain information from the operator and attempt to conduct the standardized field sobriety tests, the operator became combative. After a brief struggle and assistance from officers from the Milford Police Dept., the operator was taken into custody and placed under arrest. A criminal history check revealed the operator was a convicted felon with 19 prior arrests. The subject was transported to Milford Police Dept. for processing. He was charged with operating a vessel while under the influence and interfering with a police officer. Scup Violations On 8/31/09, EnCon Police Officer Chickos was patrolling Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison. While on patrol he observed two individuals fishing from the jetty at Meigs Point. He watched the subjects for a period of time and saw them catch and keep several scup which Officer Chickos believed were less than the minimum length of 10.5 inches. Officer Chickos approached the fishermen and found them to be in possession of twenty-five scup, five over the daily creel limit and seven that were less than the minimum length. Officer Chickos escorted the subjects back to their vehicle to retrieve their identification and saw a bag of fish in plain view in their vehicle. The bag contained twenty-seven more scup, twenty of which were less than the minimum legal length. The subjects were issued infractions for the violations and the fish seized. EASTERN DISTRICT Boating Accidents Eastern District Officers responded to seven boating accidents in August. On 8/1, Sgt. Lundin, Officers Vroman, Pyznar, Johnson and seasonal Officers Graves and Thompson were dispatched to a boating accident on Quaddick Reservoir in Thompson. Two vessels that were approaching each other from opposite directions tried to evade collision and in doing so a female who was being towed on a tube was struck by the approaching bass boat. The unconscious victim was transported to UMass Medical Center in Worchester by Life Star helicopter where she was admitted with blunt trauma injuries to her head and a collapsed lung. She died one week later from complications. The EnCon Police Boating Accident Reconstruction Unit is investigating the accident. On 8/23, a tuber was involved in an accident on the Connecticut River. Valley Shore EMS transported the victim with non life threatening injuries and Acting Sgt. Dwyer and Officers Golet and Ruggiero responded. The investigation is ongoing. There were two other boating accidents involving injuries where both vessels struck rocks while underway. The accident on the 8/13 in Hamburg Cove in Lyme is being investigated by Officer Ruggiero and the accident in the Thames River in Montville is being investigated by Officer Rose. Another accident involving an injury happened on the 8/30 on Coventry Lake where Officer Danielson responded to a jet skier who suffered a broken leg. Narcotics Arrests There were two narcotics arrests in Eastern District State Parks in August. EnCon Police Officer Johnson arrested an individual in Mansfield Hollow on the 8/3 for possession of marijuana and paraphernalia and turned the individual over to the Willimantic Police for an active arrest warrant. On the 8/15, EnCon Police Officer Ruggiero arrested an individual at Miller’s Pond who was in the act of smoking a “blunt” marijuana cigar. He was also found to be in possession of 25 small packaged bags of suspected marijuana and was charged with intent to sell narcotics as well as other related charges. Drowning On 8/14/09, EnCon Police responded to a drowning at Green Falls Pond in Pachaug State Forest. The victim and his two companions were swimming outside the regulated swim area when the victim had trouble breathing and was unable to swim back to shore. Officer Williams was nearby with a vessel in tow and launched within minutes of the emergency call prior to EMS arrival. Capt. O’Connell, Acting Sgt. Begley and Officers Rose and Lindo also responded and aided the numerous local fire departments and dive teams with the recovery of the victim, who was airlifted to Rhode Island Hospital in Providence where he was pronounced dead. Disorderly Conduct/Breach of Peace EnCon Police Officers in the Eastern District responded to an unusually high number of incidents involving unruly patrons in recreational activities in August. Approximately 60 incidents of disorderly conduct and breach of peace were reported in campgrounds and beaches. A majority of those were at Hopeville Pond State Park in Griswold. Officer Arsenault handled an incident at Hopeville Pond Campground on the 8/13 where a male was described as argumentative, intoxicated and bloody and had a dispute at the camp office. The male was arrested for Disorderly Conduct, Threatening and Criminal Mischief among other charges and was processed at Troop E in Montville. On the 8/15, Officer Golet was involved in numerous incidents at Hopeville Pond. Troopers from Troop E in Montville assisted in arresting an individual for Assault so that Officer Golet could return to the campground for multiple complaints of disorderly conduct and noise. On the 8/26, Officer Arsenault and Ruggiero responded to Hopeville Pond beach to a report of a large fight in progress. Upon their arrival they were greeted by Troopers who also responded. The outcome of the melee was two arrested for Assault 2nd Degree and one arrested for Interfering with an Officer. The weapons involved were a belt buckle and a spatula and the injuries sustained were numerous lacerations to the head of both victims/combatants who had to be transported to Troop E from Backus Hospital after emergency medical attention. The two combatants failed to make arrangements for bond and were arraigned the next day in court. WESTERN DISTRICT Abandoned Caiman On 8/9/09, EnCon Police were notified of a 1 ½ foot long Caiman (relative of crocodiles/alligators) found in a driveway at a home in Hamden. The Caiman was secured and turned over to a reptile rehabilitator in Massachusetts. Officers were not able to determine who left the abandoned Caiman in the complainant’s driveway. Evading Boat Accident On 8/16/09, EnCon Police Officer Ray Ramos responded to a complaint of a boating accident involving a pontoon boat striking a moored vessel at a dock. After the pontoon boat struck the moored vessel it left the scene of the accident. Officer Ramos was able to develop enough information to identify the pontoon boat and its operator. The operator of the pontoon boat was located and arrested for Failure to avoid a collision and for failing to stand by after a collision. Injuries in State Parks & Forests On 8/6/09, EnCon Police Officer Dean Wojcik responded to Talcott Mountain State Park in Simsbury for a report of a person falling off of the cliff. A 19 year old had been climbing on the cliff face attempting to gain access to the King Phillip cave when he fell approximately 20 feet onto rocks below, suffering severe injuries. The victim was transported to Hartford Hospital for treatment by Life Star Helicopter. Officer Wojcik determined that the subject was under the influence of and in possession of drugs at the time of the accident. After the subject was treated for his injuries, Officer Wojcik arrested him for possession of a controlled substance. On 8/24/09, EnCon Police Officer Erin Crossman responded to Enders State Forest in Granby for a report of an injured person. Officer Crossman determined that a 14 year old male who had been swimming in the stream at Enders had jumped off the waterfall and suffered head and neck injuries. The injured person was transported to Hartford Hospital by Life Star helicopter for treatment. Drowning On 8/31/09, EnCon Police Officer Sean Buckley and Special Conservation Officer Willy Williams were on duty at Squantz Pond State Park in New Fairfield when a call was received regarding a missing 8 year old boy. The boy was eventually located in the swim area in approximately 4 to 5 feet of water. The boy was pulled from the water and transported to Danbury Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officer Buckley determined that the victim had left his family who were picnicking at the park and without parental supervision, entered the swim area where he had been playing with other children earlier. __________________ Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection Connecticut State Environmental Conservation Police Captain Raul Camejo raul.camejo@ct.gov

DEP MARINE FISHING REPORT

tcarrier — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 22:39:24 GMT

MARINE FISHING REPORT Water temperatures in Long Island Sound (LIS) range from 60 to 65 °F. Check out the following web sites for more detailed water temperatures and marine boating conditions: http://www.mysound.uconn.edu/stationstat.html http://marine.rutgers.edu/mrs/sat_data/?nothumbs=1 http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/ http://www.wunderground.com/MAR/AN/330.html STRIPED BASS fishing is good to excellent with many large bass (40 pounds and larger) being taken in the recent week. The approaching October New Moon on the 18th should provide anglers with the best striper action, with many opportunities to catch a large “cow” bass. The bait of choice for trophy size “linesiders” (40 pounds and larger) are eels, hickory shad, bunker, butterfish and chunks of menhaden. The best times are during dawn and dusk, including nighttime and daytime periods of overcast low light conditions. The Race, Long Sand Shoal and Outer Bartletts being the hot spots, loaded with striped bass in the mid-30 inch to low 50-inch range. Other fishing locations include the Watch Hill reefs, Ram Island Reef (Fishers Island Sound), the Sluiceway, Plum Gut, inner Bartlett Reef, Hatchett Reef, Crane Reef, Connecticut River between the Baldwin Bridge and the Amtrak RR Bridge, Southwest Reef, Sixmile Reef, the reefs off Branford, Charles Island to Milford Point, the Norwalk Islands and the reefs off Stamford. Three 50 plus pound trophy striped bass were landed this week. Please use circle hooks to avoid gut-hooked fish. Large “cow” bass are susceptible to hooking mortality from stress. See page 41 of the CT Angler’s Guide for tips on Catch & Release Fishing. 2009 DEP Fishing Report Number 26, 10/15/2009 Page 5 of 5 These large striped bass are very important fish, providing superior genetics (offspring), which maintains a healthy striper population and fishing for years to come. BLUEFISH the best action of the 2009 season with larger “Alligator Blues” showing up and feeding voraciously on prey (butterfish, menhaden and hickory shad) fish. Fishing is consistent throughout LIS. Hot spots include the Race, Long Sand Shoal, Milford Harbor to Greenwich Point Park, with many “alligators” in the 8-15 pound category. Bluefish in the mid-20’s to low 30 inch range can be caught off the major current breaks during the day. Other good fishing locations include the Sluiceway, Plum Gut, Bartlett Reef, Hatchett Reef, Connecticut River between the Baldwin Bridge and the Amtrak RR Bridge (incoming tide), New Haven Harbor, Milford Harbor, Lower Thames River, and lower Housatonic River. Bunker (chunks) and fish–imitating lures are providing fast and furious action with many anglers coming home with great memories, along with sore and tired arms. HICKORY SHAD (“Connecticut Tarpon”) fishing remains good in the Niantic River and fair in the Connecticut River (CT DEP dock and Baldwin Bridge fishing pier) and Clinton Harbor. Incoming tides are best. Shad approaching 20 inches have been caught on willowleafs, shad darts and leadhead jigs with plastic curly tails. Chartreuse, white and copper are the colors of choice. Go out and enjoy some great shore-based fishing action. BLACKFISH is rated good. Fish weighing 4-12 pounds are common with a few bruisers weighing 15 pounds have been landed. Look for “Reef Bullies” in shallower water (10-20 ft) near structure (reefs). Hermit crabs, green crabs, Japanese (Asian shore) crabs and conch are your best bets to score. Patience and mobility is the key with these finicky fish. BLACK SEA BASS fishing is rated good at any of the major and minor (smaller) reefs and wrecks in Long Island Sound. Fish weighing 2-4 pounds are common with a few “bucketmouths” weighing in at 6 pounds have been taken this week. Popular spots include Norwalk Islands, Stratford Shoal/Middle Grounds, Charles Island, Townshend Ledge, Branford Reef, Brown’s Reef, Faulkner’s Island, Kimberly Reef, Ram Island Reef, lower Thames River, Southwest Reef and Black Point in Niantic. Hermit and green crabs, squid strips, peanut bunker and conch are your baits of choice to catch this prized gamefish. Its white flesh is excellent eating. ATLANTIC BONITO/LITTLE TUNNY are off Watch Hill and the eastern tip of Fishers Island, Wilderness Point, the Race, Pine Island, and Millstone Point to Pleasure Beach. BLUE CRAB - Crabbing is rated good, after a few years of low catches. Get them before they head-off into deeper water and migrate south. Any tidal creek, (especially the lower Connecticut River) along the coastline is offering some good opportunities and family fun crabbing for these tasty morsels. Look for “Jimmies” (male crabs) further inshore up tidal creeks, into freshwater. Female crabs (“Lemon Bellies”) will be found in the estuary along the coastline. Just as a reminder, blue crab regulations are as follows: Open season is from May 1-November 30; minimum size is 5 inches for hard shell and 3 1/2 inches for soft shell measured across carapace from spike tip to spike tip. Possession of uncooked blue crabs without the body shell attached is prohibited and only two claws per body may be possessed. Blue crabs measuring less than the minimum size and all egg bearing females must be returned to the water unharmed. Legal method of take is by scoop net, hand line/trot line, star crab trap and circular topless trap not exceeding 26 inches in diameter, and semi circular cylindrical trap 12 inches or less in diameter. Crabbing gear must be attended at all times. Remember to check the 2009 Connecticut Angler’s Guide for tidal information (page 52) and pages 49-51 for saltwater trophy fish award information. For regulation updates, please check our website www.ct.gov/dep/fishing DEP WEEKLY FISHING REPORT CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION 79 Elm Street, Hartford, CT 06106 www.ct.gov/dep

DEP FISHING REPORT NUMBER 26

tcarrier — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 22:31:45 GMT

FISHING REPORT NUMBER 26 10/15/2009 IMPORTANT REMINDER TO SPORTSMEN Pursuant to the recently adopted state budget (Public Act 09-3 – June Special Session): 􀂾 FISHING, HUNTING AND TRAPPING LICENSE AND PERMIT FEES HAVED INCREASED (effective October 1, 2009). This includes both recreational and commercial fishing fees. 􀂾 Among the other fees that increased on October 1, 2009, are state park and forest fees, including parking fees, season passes and camping fees. 􀂾 Fishing & hunting license and permit fees are available at www.ct.gov/dep. INLAND REPORT 2009 FALL BROODSTOCK ATLANTIC SALMON ARE BEING STOCKED THIS WEEK 􀂃 DEP’s Inland Fisheries Division is stocking 1,100 2-5 lb broodstock Atlantic salmon into the SHETUCKET RIVER and the NAUGATUCK RIVER. An additional 200 salmon will be released into CRYSTAL LAKE (Ellington) and MOUNT TOM POND (Morris/Litchfield/Washington), 100 fish into each lake. 􀂃 All the broodstock Atlantic salmon available for stocking in Connecticut this fall will be stocked this week (October 13th-16th). This is a departure from previous years of the program, when smaller batches of salmon were stocked on multiple occasions from mid-October into late November. This change is necessitated by the need to conduct essential maintenance of hatchery ponds at the Kensington State Fish Hatchery. 􀂃 For the third consecutive year, DEP will stock several lakes with broodstock Atlantic salmon. This fall, DEP is stocking two lakes, one in western Connecticut (Mount Tom Pond) and one in eastern Connecticut (Crystal Lake). Beach Pond and Mashapaug Lake are the other lakes that have been stocked with broodstock salmon at least once since 2007. 􀂃 The regulations for broodstock Atlantic salmon released into lakes and ponds are different from the regulations for salmon on the Naugatuck and Shetucket Rivers. In each lake, the regulations for methods, seasons and minimum lengths for salmon will be the same as for trout in that specific water body but the daily creel limit will be one salmon per day. (Please refer to the 2009 CT Angler’s Guide for trout regulations). 􀂃 Regulations for broodstock remain the same on the Shetucket and Naugatuck Rivers. In rivers, angling for Atlantic salmon is restricted to CATCH-AND-RELEASE ONLY through November 30. From December 1, 2008, through March 31, 2009, the daily creel limit for Atlantic salmon will be one. During the open season in the rivers, the legal method for taking Atlantic salmon is limited to angling using a single fly, or an artificial lure with a single free swinging hook and no additional weight can be added to the line above the fly or lure. 􀂃 On the Shetucket River, anglers can fish for salmon downstream from the Scotland Dam (Windham) to the Water Street Bridge in Norwich (the first bridge upstream of Norwich Harbor). The salmon are stocked into one designated Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Area, from the Scotland Dam to the Occum Dam. 􀂃 Anglers are allowed to fish for salmon in the Naugatuck River from the confluence of the East and West Branches (Torrington) downstream to the Housatonic River (Derby). Anglers may also fish for Atlantic salmon in the Housatonic River downstream of Derby Dam. The salmon are stocked into two designated Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Areas on the Naugatuck River, the “Campville Section” of the upper 2009 DEP Fishing Report Number 26, 10/15/2009 Naugatuck River from Route 118 downstream to the Thomaston Flood Control Dam (Litchfield-Thomaston) and the “Beacon Falls Section” of the lower Naugatuck, from Prospect Street (Naugatuck) downstream to Pines Bridge Road (Route 42 bridge, Beacon Falls).Note that in the Beacon Falls area, DEP will no longer be able to stock the area along the RR tracks in Naugatuck State Forest due to safety concerns. 􀂃 From October 1st through March 31st, fishing for other species in these designated Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Areas is restricted to the gear legal for Atlantic salmon. TROUT Fall trout stocking update- DEP stocked over 5,800 adult-size rainbow trout into Amos Lake (300), Bigelow Pond (300), Black Pond (Meriden/Middlefield)(400), Black Pond (Woodstock)(250), Cedar Lake (400), Crystal Lake (1,000), Gardner Lake (1,000), Long Pond (400), Mashapaug Lake (700), Quonnipaug Lake (400) and Rogers Lake (400) earlier this week. Rivers & streams - Conditions for fishing this weekend will be variable. Flows and temperatures are currently moderate but extended periods of rain and showers are forecast for the next five days. Fall is generally streamer and nymphing time, with late morning and early evening often the best times. White, yellow and brown are good streamer colors, patterns include White Wooly Buggers, Muddlers, Micky Finn, Grey or Black Ghosts (#4-10). Nymphs to bottom bounce include caddis pupa (#14-16), Serendipity (#14-16), Pheasant Tail (#12-20), Prince (#6-1 and Hare’s ear (#8-20). Good reports last week from the Housatonic River, Naugatuck River, Hockanum River, Salmon River and West Branch Farmington River Farmington River – Fishing has been good, although anglers do have to work a bit. West Branch flows remain clear, moderately low and quite fishable (120 cfs at Riverton, plus an additional 40 cfs from the Still River). Still River inputs may increase, depending on rainfall amounts during the next 4-5 days. Morning water temperatures are in the upper 50’s to 60 °F. Hatches/patterns include Isonychia bicolor (major hatch, #12-14, fast water, afternoon/evening), Blue Wing Olives (Drunella & Baetis sps., #16-24, mid-late afternoon), Caddis (tan #14-18, all day; green #22-26, evening; summer pupa #18-20 morning), Midges (#22-28, morning), Black Ants (#16-18, mid day in fast water), Flying Ants (#18-22, mid day,) and Golden Stonefly (#16-16). Housatonic River – Fishing was good to very good last week. Conditions remain good for fishing. Flows are clear, moderate and very fishable, currently 560 cfs at Falls Village and 680 cfs at Gaylordsville. Water temperatures have cooled to the upper 40’s to low upper 50’s °F (mornings). With an extend bout of rain and/or showers forecast, flows may increase this weekend. Anglers may wish to call FirstLight Power at 1-888-417-4837 for updated flow information. Hatches/patterns include Blue Wing Olive (#18-26, early morning; spinner fall in evening), Leadwing Coachman (#10-12 evening), Cahills/Summer (#12-14), and Brown caddis (#16, early morning & evening), Black/Cinnamon Ants (#14-18, mid day in fast water), Sulfurs (#16-1 and Flying Ants (#16-18, mid day, when windy/humid). Nymphing the pockets, deeper riffles and pool heads will also be productive. Lakes & Ponds – Fall trout fishing is generally fair to good, with reports from Highland Lake (third basin, look to the edges), Mashapaug Lake, Bigelow Pond, Crystal Lake (Ellington, 4 colors of lead line), Mohawk Pond, East Twin Lake (5 colors) and West Hill Pond. LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing slowed this past week, with the best reports from Quaddick Reservoir, Moodus Reservoir, Winchester Lake, Wyassup Lake, Mudge Pond, Saugatuck Reservoir and Candlewood Lake. Fair to slow fishing reported from many other areas including Long Pond, Beseck Lake, Gardner Lake, Highland Lake, Mansfield Hollow Reservoir, Hatch Pond, Pachaug Pond, Lake Housatonic, Rogers Lake, Coventry Lake, Halls Pond, Bishop Pond, North Farms Reservoir, Bashan Lake. SMALLMOUTH BASS - Fair to slow fishing for smallies reported from Gardner Lake, Wyassup Lake, Lake Housatonic, Highland Lake, West Hill Pond, and Mashapaug Lake. Good reports from Candlewood Lake, and anglers are still finding some action in the upper Housatonic River. NORTHERN PIKE – The fall bite is beginning. Anglers can target Winchester Lake, Pachaug Pond, Mansfield Hollow Reservoir, Quaddick Reservoir and Lake Lillinonah. 2009 DEP Fishing Report Number 26, 10/15/2009 WALLEYE fishing is improving, with reports from from Saugatuck Reservoir, Lake Saltonstall and Squantz Pond. CONNECTICUT RIVER – STRIPED BASS action in the lower river is good just after dark on hickory shad. Recent catches include a 52-incher at the DEP pier. BLACK CRAPPIE are still providing some fall action in many coves. Small shiners work well. With water temperatures dropping, NORTHERN PIKE fishing is picking up with a number of pike up to about 10 lbs being caught. CHANNEL CATFISH continue to provide anglers with some nice action. Fish cut-bait and worms on outside edges of channels and in coves. Some good action for LARGEMOUTH BASS in coves and the slower moving areas from just below Hartford to Chapman Pond. A number of nice CARP have been caught recently, and with the “Catch-And-Release Professional Carp Tournament Series” 6th annual Tournament of Champions currently (October 13th to 17th) being held from the shores of the CT River in Hartford/East Hartford, there should be some outstanding catches in the Hartford area this week. NOTICES: 􀂃 “Winter” drawdowns (2-4 feet) of a number of Eastern CT lakes begin this week (October 15th) at GARDNER LAKE, LOWER BOLTON LAKE, PICKEREL LAKE and MASHAPAUG LAKE, and Drawdowns of BASHAN LAKE and BESECK LAKE will begin next week. 􀂃 LAKE ZOAR is scheduled to be drawn down 5-10 feet starting October 17th with refilling scheduled to begin October 25th. LAKE LILLINONAH is scheduled to be drawn down 3-5 feet beginning October 24th and ending November 1st. 􀂃 To facilitate dam maintenance and repairs, an extensive drawdown of RAINBOW RESERVOIR is ongoing and the state boat launch is currently unusable due to the low water levels. Normal operations are expected to resume within one to two weeks. 􀂃 ASPINOOK POND has been drawn down 30 inches to facilitate dam maintenance. Areas such as the Butts Bridge lot used by many anglers/boaters to access the impoundment may be difficult to impossible to use by trailered boats. 􀂃 The STATE BOAT LAUNCH ON THE HOUSATONIC RIVER IN MILFORD at the MOSES WHEELER BRIDGE area is now closed to public use while bridge reconstruction occurs. This closure is expected to last possibly 8 years. TIPS & TRICKS: FISH FINDERS -Putting More Fish In The Boat 􀀹 Fish finders are sonar devices that can help anglers to be more productive. 􀀹 Using a fish finder can help you spend more time catching fish and less time looking for them. 􀀹 A fish finder isn't going to make fish jump on your hook, but they can make locating them a whole lot easier. 􀀹 A good fish finder will soon be your best friend when it comes to tracking down that next big catch. 􀀹 These devices use sonar technology to scan beneath your boat and determine the bottom structure and composition, water depth, locate where schools of fish could be hiding, locate reefs, shipwrecks, and other large underwater objects. 􀀹 They can even help identify thermal changes in the water where fish are likely to congregate. 􀀹 They generally consist of an LCD display panel that's mounted topside and a sensor fixed to the bottom of the boat. 􀀹 Finally, you'll want to read the instructions carefully and test the unit out on the water a few times. Like most electronic devices, these fish finders can take a while to get used to, and to understand what you're looking at on the display. But be patient, learn how to read those underwater features, and pretty soon you'll be catching more fish than ever before. IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ANGLERS AND ALL OTHER USERS OF OUR AQUATIC RESOURCES- CHINESE MITTEN CRAB ALERT Please be on the lookout for this invader. Beginning in 2006, a small number of these crabs have been found on the east coast from Maryland to the Hudson River in New York. Report any sightings to DEP (Inland Fisheries: 860-424-3474, Marine Fisheries: 860-434-6043). The Chinese mitten crab, a non-native species from East Asia, is a costly and environmentally damaging invader. THESE CRABS MAY BE FOUND IN BOTH FRESHWATER AND SALT WATER. They are walking crabs that can emerge from the water to move upstream of barriers and are capable of moving several hundred miles upstream from saltwater. They spend most of their lives in freshwater rivers, migrating to brackish or salt water to reproduce. MARINE FISHING

The Atlantic salmon are coming

tcarrier — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 22:18:51 GMT

Fishing Column: The Atlantic salmon are coming By Martin Armstrong Correspondent Updated: 10/16/2009 11:51:00 PM EDT Last week the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced its schedule for its annual fall stockings of surplus broodstock Atlantic salmon. This fall the DEP's Inland Fisheries Division plans to release a total of 1,100 salmon into the Shetucket River and the Naugatuck River. An additional 200 salmon will be released into two lakes, Crystal Lake (Ellington) and Mount Tom Pond (Morris/Litchfield/Washington). The broodstock salmon stocked in Connecticut are raised in state and federal hatcheries to provide eggs for the Connecticut River Atlantic Salmon Restoration Program. Surplus and spawned fish are then made available to provide a recreational fishery for Connecticut anglers. Anglers should expect that the salmon stocked this year will not be as large as many of the salmon stocked in the last several years. Typically, the fish released in Connecticut are two to five years old, and weigh from 2 to 20 pounds each. The 1,300 fish that are being released this week are younger fish, all between two and three years old, that range in weight from 2 to 5 pounds each. For the third consecutive year, DEP will stock several lakes with broodstock Atlantic salmon. DEP began stocking surplus Atlantic salmon in 1992, and until 2007, all fish had been stocked only into the Naugatuck and Shetucket Rivers. However, in October 2007, salmon were stocked into Beach Pond (Voluntown) and Crystal Lake. Data collected following these stockings indicated that that salmon fishing in lakes might be popular. In 2008, the DEP stocked Mashapaug Lake and Crystal Lake on an experimental basis to collect additional data, which also indicated that stocking these salmon had created a popular fishery. This fall, two lakes will be stocked, one in western Connecticut (Mount Tom Pond) and one in eastern Connecticut (Crystal Lake). In addition, anglers may occasionally catch salmon that have held over from previous stockings of Beach Pond and Mashapaug Lake. Be aware that the regulations for broodstock Atlantic salmon released into lakes and ponds are different from the regulations for salmon that are in the Naugatuck, Housatonic and Shetucket Rivers. In each lake, the regulations for methods, seasons and minimum lengths for salmon are the same as for trout in that specific water body but the daily creel limit is one salmon per day. As such, specific regulations for salmon fishing in Crystal Lake, Mount Tom Pond, Mashapaug Lake and Beach Pond can be found in the 2009 Connecticut Angler's Guide and are provided below. Atlantic salmon broodstock stocked in the Shetucket and Naugatuck rivers are released into three designated Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Areas: 1) between Scotland Dam (Scotland) and Occum Dam (Norwich) on the Shetucket River; 2) the "Campville Section" of the upper Naugatuck River from Route 118 downstream to the Thomaston Flood Control Dam (Litchfield-Thomaston); and 3) the "Beacon Falls Section" of the lower Naugatuck from Prospect Street (Naugatuck) downstream to Pines Bridge Road (Route 42 bridge, Beacon Falls). Anglers should be aware that the section of the Naugatuck River in the Beacon Falls area along the RR tracks in Naugatuck State Forest is no longer stocked due to safety concerns. Anglers are allowed to fish for salmon in the Naugatuck River from the confluence of the East and West Branches (Torrington) downstream to the Housatonic River (Derby). Anglers may also fish for Atlantic salmon in the Housatonic River downstream of Derby Dam. On the Shetucket River, anglers can fish for salmon downstream from the Scotland Dam (Windham) to the Water Street Bridge in Norwich (the first bridge upstream of Norwich Harbor). In the Naugatuck, Housatonic and Shetucket Rivers, angling for Atlantic salmon is restricted to catch-and-release only through November 30. From December 1, 2009, through March 31, 2010, the daily creel limit for Atlantic salmon will be one. During the open season in the rivers, the legal method for taking Atlantic salmon is limited to angling using a single fly, or an artificial lure with a single free swinging hook and no additional weight can be added to the line above the fly or lure. Also, from October 1 through March 31, fishing for other species in the designated Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Areas is restricted to the gear legal for Atlantic salmon. q "Fly Fishing the Housatonic and Farmington Rivers" is the topic of the Tuesday, October 20th meeting of Trout Unlimited's Nutmeg Chapter at Fayerweather Yacht Club, 51 Brewster St., Black Rock, Bridgeport. The meeting, starting at 7:30 p.m., is free of charge and open to the public. Rich Strolis is the featured speaker and, as a fly-fishing fanatic, he is also an expert caster and fly tier. Strolis especially enjoys guiding on the Connecticut's Farmington and Housatonic Rivers and he will talk about areas to target, flies and hatches, and give a presentation of his fishing adventures on those rivers. For more info about Strolis, please go to his website at www.catching-shadows.com. For more information on Nutmeg Chapter visit www.nutmegtu.org , call 203-856-2004, or email vicepres@nutmegtu.org. q Fall fishing is super. Saltwater anglers are catching lots of striped bass, bluefish and blackfish. Freshwater fans are enjoying some excellent trout angling thanks to the recent stockings in local waters. The largest striped bass reported last week was a nice 44-inch fish caught by Randy Sala while fishing off Shippan Point. The big fish weighed 29-pounds and was taken using fresh bunker for bait. Sala also caught a 40-inch, 24-pounder on the same trip. On a second trip to Shippan Point, he caught five more linesiders including one that measured 37-inches. Freddy Bonilla also caught some nice stripers off Shippan Point. His largest linesider measured 33-inches. Bonilla also caught some bluefish weighing up to 12-pounds. All of his fish were taken on fresh bunker. Tim Hughs caught some nice stripers while fishing off Fairfield before the storm. He caught two 36-inch fish and a 34-inch fish. He was using bunker chunks and eels for bait. A fellow known as Capt. Nemo caught a 33-inch striper and a limit of blackfish while fishing the Stamford Cows.. He was using fresh bunker and green crabs for bait. Paul McFarland also did well at the Cows. He caught a limit of blackfish and a couple of blues. His largest blackfish weighed 5-pounds and was taken on a green crab. The bluefish were taken on fresh bunker. The largest blackfish of the week was reported by Scott at Fisherman's World. Dave Deboer brought in four keepers to be weighed. His biggest fish tipped the scales at 11-pounds, 8-ounces. It was taken at Greens Ledge using green crabs. Terry McPartland caught a couple of blackfish including a 7-pounder while fishing at the Great Reef. He also caught some black sea bass. Kevin Miller from Sportsman's Den reported that Pat Vagnone boated a 7.62-pounder while fishing at Buoy 34. Vagnone was using green crabs. Kevin Miller took some time off from behind the counter at Sportsman's Den to fish with his boss, Mike Noyes. Fishing in Greenwich waters they caught and released lots of porgies and a few keeper blackfish. Later in the week, Noyes fished off Playland and jigged up some bluefish including a hefty 14-pounder. John Sudell tried his luck bottom fishing off Playland. Using green crabs he caught several blackfish. His fish, with the exception of one, were too small to keep so they were returned to the water unharmed. Karina Adams, age 7, and her sisters, Isabella, 6, and Sophia 2, fished with their father Mike Adams and their friend, Mary Kanos, 6, off Cummings Beach last week. All of the girls caught bluefish weighing up to 10-pounds using fresh bunker. Last week we detailed the DEPs fall stocking report. This week we heard about two local anglers that did so well on the Norwalk River that they don't want their last names used. Ernie and Keith fished the river at a location they don't want disclosed and here's why. Ernie reeled in a 5-pound 14-ounce rainbow trout along with 4 smaller fish using 2-pound test line. Keith landed four trout measuring between 14 and 16-inches. All of the fish were taken on nightcrawlers. Martin Armstrong is a member of the Fisheries Advisory Council, a lifetime member in Trout Unlimited and a member of the Outdoors Writers Association.