Share Your Fishing Ideas with the DWR no later than June 1

Is there a fishing regulation in Utah that you’d like to see change? Or do you have an idea for a new rule?
If so, biologists with the Division of Wildlife Resources want to hear from you.

The biologists are already working on possible fishing changes for 2011. They need your ideas no later than June 1 to consider them for next year.

“2011 is still months away, but our biologists need time to consider your idea and determine whether or not it might work,” says Drew Cushing, warm water sport fisheries coordinator for the DWR.

“Please get your ideas to us by June 1.”

After examining the ideas they receive, biologists will present their final recommendations to the public in September.

“We don’t hear from as many individual anglers as we’d like to,” Cushing says. “We hope those who don’t belong to a fishing group will share their ideas with us too.”

Three ways
You can share your ideas with the DWR three different ways:

- e-mail your ideas to DWRComment@utah.gov

- mail your ideas to:

Sport Fisheries Coordinator
Division of Wildlife Resources
Box 146301
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6301

- attend your upcoming Regional Advisory Council meeting. You can share your ideas at any of the following meetings:

- attend your upcoming Regional Advisory Council meeting. You can share your ideas at any of the following meetings:

Southern Region
May 11 at 7 p.m.
Beaver High School
195 E. Center St.
Beaver

Southeastern Region
May 12 at 6:30 p.m.
John Wesley Powell Museum
1765 E. Main St.
Green River

Northeastern Region
May 13 at 6:30 p.m.
Uintah Basin Applied Tech College
450 N. 2000 W.
Vernal

Central Region
May 18 at 6:30 p.m.
Springville Civic Center
50 S. Main St.
Springville

Northern Region
May 19at  6 p.m.
Brigham City Community Center
24 N. 300 W.
Brigham City

Reduced bass limits

One of the ideas the biologists are considering should result in more bass anglers and larger bass for anglers to catch.

Reducing the total number of bass limits in Utah—from eight major limits down to three—is their idea. Specifically, biologists are recommending the following for 2011:

- A limit of six bass—with no size restrictions—at most of the Utah’s bass waters.

- Five reservoirs—Jordanelle, Quail Creek, Sand Hollow, Gunlock and Huntington North—would also have a six-bass limit. But only one bass in that six-bass limit could be longer than 12 inches.

- Biologists would also like to simplify the bass limits at Lake Powell and Flaming Gorge. But they need to do additional work with biologists in Arizona and Wyoming to make that happen.

It’s likely the bass limit at Lake Powell and Flaming Gorge in 2011 will be similar to the limits in place now at those waters.


New anglers, larger bass
Biologists believe the new limits would be a good change for bass and bass anglers in Utah.

“Right now, Utah’s bass waters are facing a challenge: they’re overpopulated with smaller bass,” Cushing says.

At every bass water in Utah except Lake Powell, anglers are keeping four percent or less of the total adult bass population each year.

They’re releasing the rest of the bass they catch. “What anglers are ending up with are tons of bass in the nine- to 12-inch range,” Cushing says. “Many anglers aren’t happy with these smaller fish. But if they want larger bass, then they need to remove some of the smaller fish.”

Cushing says the new limits should benefit all bass anglers, ranging from those who are new to bass fishing to those who have fished for years.

“Beginning anglers aren’t as concerned about the size of the bass they catch. They’re happy with smaller fish. And they want a chance to keep some fish,” Cushing says.

Cushing says it’s tough to recruit new anglers to bass fishing with eight different bass limits, including some that are fairly restrictive. “If we can reduce the number of bass limits, make the limits easier to understand and give anglers a chance to keep some fish, we think more anglers will give bass fishing a try.”

The new regulations would also help experienced bass anglers.

“More of the smaller bass need to be removed to make room for bigger fish. These smaller fish are eating most of the food and utilizing most of the cover that’s available in these waters,” Cushing says. “Imagine Utah’s bass waters are a big cookie jar. You can fill the jar with large cookies or with crumbs, but there isn’t enough room in the jar for both.”

Cushing says Jordanelle, Quail Creek, Sand Hollow and Gunlock are four waters biologists believe have the potential to grow large bass. Allowing anglers to keep six bass—but limiting them to not more than one bass longer than 12 inches—should keep plenty of big bass in these waters for anglers to catch.

Cushing says that won’t happen, though, unless those who fish these waters are willing to keep bass that are less than 12 inches long. “If they don’t take some of these smaller bass, it will be difficult for the bass grow to a larger size,” he says.

Cushing says the regulation at Huntington North is designed to provide the bass in the reservoir with extra protection. “The water level at the reservoir fluctuates a lot,” he says. “In fact, water levels in all of our bass waters are the limiting factor facing bass in the state. Good water years mean great fishing. Poor water years mean poor fishing.”

For more information, call the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources office or the DWR’s Salt Lake City office at (801) 538-4700.

Melting Ice, Hot Fishing at Scofield Reservoir

Scofield -- Fishing that will keep your kids excited—and you pulling fish out of the water from the comfort of your lawn chair—is about to begin at Scofield Reservoir.

Scofield is one of Utah’s best trout fishing waters. And it’s less than two hours from the Wasatch Front.

The easiest way to reach the reservoir is to travel on U.S. 6 out of Spanish Fork. At Colton, turn west off of U.S. 6 and travel about 10 miles on state Route 96 to the reservoir.

Fast fishing
Fishing at Scofield is usually best just after the ice has melted. That's when hungry trout, trapped under a sheet of ice all winter long, finally gain access to the water's surface and to food.

A fishes' metabolism surges in the spring. That surging metabolism stimulates a feeding frenzy of sorts in the fish. But the insects trout eat aren't active until early summer. So the nightcrawlers, salmon eggs and other commercial baits you toss to the trout are even more enticing to them.

From late April until June, the water temperature is comfortable near the shore, so the trout move in close to shore to school. It's a great time for lawn chair anglers to compete successfully with anglers who are fishing from boats, float tubes and pontoon boats.

Fishing from the shore is especially good for energetic youngsters who get bored easily and need to run around a bit. It's easier to entertain your kids if they're not confined to a boat!

Fishing tips for Scofield Reservoir, including the best baits to use, the best times to fish and how to create the “Scofield Special”—a bait that lures in big cutthroat trout—are available at www.j.mp/ctM5sG.

The tips are also available in a Division of Wildlife Resources news release at www.wildlife.utah.gov/dwr/news.html .

Simple equipment
In early spring, you can catch trout easily using just about any kind of tackle. A "Barbie" rod and reel tipped with a worm is as sophisticated as you need to get!

Although nightcrawlers are the best all-around fish catchers, you may want some additional insurance. Take along some PowerBait and cheese hooks. A jar of salmon eggs is a good bait to take with you.

A dead minnow is another good bait to try in the spring. You can catch redside shiners and Utah chubs at Scofield using a minnow trap. You can also catch Utah chubs on a rod and reel using small hooks and nightcrawlers.

After you’ve caught some minnows, please remember that the minnows must be dead before you can place them on a hook and use them as bait.

If you like to use artificial lures, Jake's Spin-A-Lures, Kastmasters and Triple Teasers are the best to use at Scofield. Spinners and crankbaits are also effective for the tiger trout and Bear Lake cutthroat trout in the reservoir.

The best spring fly pattern for Scofield is a brown or green sparkle leech in a size six to 10.

Fish in the morning or evening
As a general rule, you'll find more success if you fish during the early morning or late evening hours. Trout suffer from a midday slump. When the sun is high, the trout rest. Like many wild animals, trout feed most actively at dawn and dusk.

The time of day you fish is important if you want to "hook" your kids on fishing. You need to fish only when the bite is fast and frequent. Kids can develop patience elsewhere. Fishing should be non-stop fun!

The "Scofield Special"
Sergeant Stacey Jones, a Division of Wildlife Resources conservation officer who works at Scofield, says many anglers catch a lot of big fish at Scofield using a bait called the "Scofield Special."

Jones says the "Scofield Special" is an egg sack created from the eggs of a pregnant female trout. Once you’ve harvested a pregnant fish and counted it as part of your daily bag limit, you can remove the eggs and use them as bait.

To create a "Scofield Special," wrap the eggs in a small piece of netting. Then attach the netting to your fishing line with the hook buried inside the sack. (This is much like placing a chunk of PowerBait on your hook.)

Jones says it's critical that you make your egg sack the size of a marble. Anything larger is a waste and a turnoff to the fish.

Jones says the natural predatory nature of trout bring them right to this bait. It’s especially deadly for larger cutthroat trout.

If you're going to use fish eggs as bait, please remember that you must keep the fish you harvest the eggs from. It is illegal to "squeeze" a fish for eggs, and then release her. The trout will die.

The only lawful way you may use fish eggs is to keep and count the fish the eggs are removed from as part of your bag limit.

Use single hooks
An unfortunate aspect of spring fishing at Scofield is the high amount of "hooking mortality" that takes place.

Hooking mortality happens when anglers catch fish using treble hooks and then release the fish. As long as the fish is legal to keep, it’s very important that you keep and include any fish you catch on a treble or a barbed hook as part of your bag limit. Using barbed hooks greatly increases the chance that any fish you catch and release will swim off and die.

"Anglers need to understand that when they throw a fish they caught on a barbed hook back into the water, it’s the same as wasting wildlife,” Jones says. “It’s very important that anglers either change hook types when fishing with bait or egg sacks, or keep the first four legal fish they catch."

If a fish has been deeply hooked, Jones says it’s better to clip the fishing line and leave the hook inside the fish. “Hooks that are left inside a fish will quickly rust and disappear,” she says. “Clipping the line greatly increases the chance the fish you catch and release will live to be caught again another day.”

Three kinds of trout
Rainbow, cutthroat and tiger trout are the three trout in Scofield Reservoir.  DWR biologists introduced tiger trout to the reservoir in 2005. Some of these fish are five pounds or larger now. The DWR stocks 80,000 seven- to nine-inch rainbow and Bear Lake cutthroat trout, and 120,000 four- to five-inch tiger trout, every year.

Please remember the trout limit at Scofield:
- You can have four trout in any combination. But not more than two of those fish can be cutthroat or tiger trout less than 15 inches long. And not more than one can be a cutthroat or tiger trout over 22 inches.

- All cutthroat and tiger trout from 15 to 22 inches must be immediately released.

- You can keep rainbow trout of any size.

- You may not fillet fish, or remove their heads or tails, until you get home.

- The tributaries flowing into Scofield Reservoir are closed until the second Saturday in July to protect cutthroat trout that spawn in them.

Take your family fishing
When was the last time you took your family on a fishing trip? For most of us, it's been too long.

“A family retreat to a lake, pond or stream is a great way to strengthen family ties and ease tension,” Jones says. “We live in a hustle-and-bustle society. Often times, we get so busy that we put off having fun.

“There are so many obligations that seem to take a higher priority,” she says. “But time slips away. Kids grow up and leave home.

“Give your kids some of childhood's sweetest memories. Take them fishing!”

Utah Water Named 'World's Best'

BEAVER, Utah (AP) — It's sweet and has a perfect PH balance — water from southern Utah's Tushar mountain range. The spring water was judged the world's best for bottlers in a prestigious contest.

The Tushar water beat out 43 global competitors in a February contest sponsored by a Berkeley Springs, W. Va., resort, The Country Inn.

General Manager Trent Graves of Tushar Mountain Bottling Inc. says the water tastes so good because it gets filtered through miles of volcanic rock before surfacing in a series of 15 springs, which also supply Beaver's municipal water.

His company bottles the water for some 50 private labels.

One of those labels, Roscommon, Mich.-based Ecoviva, grabbed the Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting award.

Catch Big Brown Trout on the Weber River

DWR Aquatics Biologist Aaron Webber shows a huge brown trout biologists caught during an electrofishing survey on the Weber River last summer. Photo courtesy of Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.

Ogden -- The temperature isn’t the only thing that’s heating up right now—fishing on the Weber River is heating up too.
“Fishing is better than it’s been in years,” says Paul Thompson.

Thompson should know. In addition to serving as the Northern Region aquatics manager for the Division of Wildlife Resources, he fishes the Weber River regularly.

“I’ve caught several brown trout in the 18- to 20-inch range this spring. And the mountain whitefish numbers have rebounded in reaches that were hit hard by the drought a couple of years ago,” Thompson says.

In addition to catching browns and whitefish, if you fish in the Henefer, Peterson or Mountain Green areas, you might catch a nice Bonneville cutthroat trout.

“We saw numerous Bonneville cutthroat trout during electrofishing surveys we did last summer,” Thompson says. “Some of the fish were up to 18 inches long. We even found a few that were over 20 inches.”

Thompson has landed three Bonneville cutthroats so far this spring. The fish he caught were between 15 and 16 inches long.

You can watch a video of one of his Weber River fishing adventures at www.youtube.com/UDWR.

Time to catch some fish!
If you want to get in on the action, Thompson provides the following tackle tips. He also provides information about river conditions:

Flies and lures
Nymphs – Thompson prefers to use two nymphs in tandem. Hares ears and pheasant tails (including flashback and copper johns) are his favorite nymphs this time of year. He places the nymphs about 18 inches apart. A bead head is the type of nymph he usually places on the top of his line. Depending on how deep the water is and how fast it’s flowing, you may want to add some split shot about 8 inches above the bead head fly.

Streamers – Brown trout are extremely aggressive in the Weber this time of year. Darker colors (black, olive or brown) are good colors to try.

Lures – Jigs, spinners, and crank baits also work well, especially in the spring. These lures will often entice strikes from some of the larger brown trout.

River conditions
Even though the Weber has been generally low and clear this spring, conditions can change on a daily basis. As the snow melts, the water level rises. The rising water level can cloud the water. And that can make it difficult for the fish to see your fly, lure or bait.

The irrigation season, which begins in mid-April, can change the water level too.

Fortunately, the Weber is a long river. If the water is off color in the first area you visit, you can often find clear water by moving upstream. A good place to find consistently clear water is the stretch between Echo and Rockport reservoirs.

And even if the water is cloudy, you can still catch fish. You just need to change your tactics. For example, if you’re fly fishing, switch to streamers or larger nymphs that are in the same patterns as the streamers.

These bigger flies are easier for the fish to see.

Lots of places to fish
In addition to using the right techniques, you also need to find a place to fish. Fortunately, the Weber River provides lots of choices!

Much of the Weber River flows over land that’s privately owned. For years, DWR biologists have worked with private landowners, municipalities and non-governmental organizations to get anglers access to the river. And they’ve found a lot of success.

DWR Blue Ribbon Fisheries Biologist Paul Burnett lists access points to the river, starting at the bottom of the river and moving upstream:

- One example of the cooperative effort mentioned above is the lower Weber River near Ogden. The DWR and its partners have developed a non-motorized pathway—which also provides access for fishing—along the stretch that flows from Riverdale to where the Weber and Ogden rivers join. This stretch is about 5 miles long.

- Access points from the Adam’s Ave. toll bridge upstream to the mouth of Weber Canyon are limited because of the alignment of I-84. However, you can access the river at the Lower Weber River Diversion and then fish upstream and downstream from there. You can also access the river at the rest area on eastbound I-84.

- It’s difficult to find public access as the river flows through the Morgan Valley. However, you can fish through the town of Morgan and upstream through the Morgan County fairgrounds property.

- Just upstream from Round Valley, several access points are available along the stretch between Taggart and Devil’s Slide. (Much of the river through the canyon is within the I-84 right-of-way and is open to the public to wade in or raft on.)

For example, if you exit I-84 at Exit 108 (the exit to Taggart) you’ll find several access points just off the frontage road.

You can also access the river at the Devil’s Slide pullout on I-84 and by exiting I-84 at Exit 111 (the exit to Croydon).

You can wade the river upstream from Croydon. A deep channel in the river can make this walk dangerous, though.

NOTE: One thing you don’t want to do is park your vehicle on I-84 and then walk to the river. Parking on I-84 is illegal; you might get a ticket.

- Several access points also await you if you want to fish the portion of the river that flows through the Henefer Valley. Much of this section is within the I-84 right-of-way and is open to the public.

The DWR owns an angler access area at Exit 112 (the first exit to Henefer). From the angler access area, you can fish for about one mile upstream to the I-84 bridge. (One you reach the bridge, you must have written permission from landowners to fish farther upstream.)

The frontage road along I-84 also provides some access points for anglers. You’ll know you’ve found one when you see a wooden fence crossover built by the DWR.

The Coalville area also offers several access points. Just look for the fence crossovers, and you’ll know you’ve found one.

If you want to fish upstream from Rockport Reservoir, you must have written permission from landowners.

For more information, call the DWR’s Northern Region office at (801) 476-2740. Updated fishing reports for the Weber River are available at www.wildlife.utah.gov/fishing/reports.php .

Rusty Crayfish Capture the Attention of Utah Water Users

Photo courtesy of the United States Geological Survey.

Vernal -- News from Colorado is capturing the attention of biologists, anglers and water managers in Utah.
The Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) recently reported finding rusty crayfish in the Yampa River Basin.

The Yampa flows into the Green River in northeastern Utah.

In response to their discovery, the CDOW has issued an order prohibiting the removal of live crayfish from the Yampa River and any streams, lakes, canals or rivers that adjoin it.

Utah already has a similar rule for the crayfish species found in the state.

In Utah, live crayfish are on the state’s prohibited list. Live crayfish cannot be collected, imported or transported anywhere without a valid Certificate of Registration from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.

Anglers may use crayfish as bait, but only at the same water where the anglers collected them. Crayfish caught for human consumption must be dead before they’re removed from the water where they were harvested.

A major threat
The rusty crayfish is an invasive species native to the Ohio River drainage. It’s had negative effects on fisheries and aquatic ecosystems in the Great Lakes region, in at least 17 other states and in southern Canada.

Elizabeth Brown, invasive species coordinator for the CDOW, says the discovery of rusty crayfish in the Yampa Basin is the first time the species has been found in Colorado.

Rusty crayfish are large and aggressive. They can affect a fishery or an aquatic ecosystem two major ways:

- They consume a wide variety of forage that fish depend on. This forage includes small fish, fish eggs, vegetation and aquatic invertebrates—including many insects and other forage species that are highly desired by fish. By consuming aquatic plants and plant beds, they remove critical forage and cover needed by the fish and the invertebrates on which the fish feed.

- Their aggressive nature will also displace native crayfish and other aquatic species from their hiding places—making them more susceptible to predation by fish. This won’t affect the fish much at first because their usual prey will be easier to catch. Later, however, they’ll have to deal with the rusty crayfish, which can rotate its large claws over its back to defend itself.

Why rusty crayfish are spreading
People have moved the rusty crayfish well outside its native range.

No one has found the rusty crayfish in Utah. But Colorado’s recent discovery indicates the crayfish is moving westward. Crayfish are moved several ways:

- as bait transported by anglers from one water to another or bought by anglers commercially and then introduced to a water,

- through school supply houses by teachers who raise the crayfish in class and then give them to students or release them into a nearby water,

- dumping from home aquariums,

- intentional releases by misguided anglers wanting to increase forage for their favorite fish, and

- intentional releases by commercial harvesters who want more waters in which to catch crayfish that the harvesters can later sell

What you can do
Everyone in Utah has a responsibility to keep rusty crayfish and other invasive mussels, fish, snails, wildlife and plants from spreading into Utah’s waters and wild areas. Doing so is easy. It comes down to two simple things:

- Never move any species or species parts—plant or animal—from one body of water to another body of water, or from one wild area to a different wild area.

- Make sure you clean, drain and dry your boat and any recreational or fishing equipment that’s come in contact with the water before placing it in the water again.

This simple clean, drain and dry process is available at www.wildlife.utah.gov/mussels/decontaminate.php .

Celebrate the Cosmos with Clark Planetarium and University of Utah during Astronomy Day

SALT LAKE CITY (April 22, 2010) — Join Clark Planetarium, the University of Utah and Salt Lake Astronomical Society (SLAS) on Saturday, April 24 to celebrate Astronomy Day, a nationwide celebration of the passion for astronomy.

This entertaining and educational event gives the public an opportunity to view the sun and stars through telescopes, participate in space science demonstrations and see astronomy presentations in the Hansen Dome Theatre at Clark Planetarium. Many activities are free and shows can be enjoyed for as little as $1 per person.

“Astronomy Day is all about encouraging individuals and families to learn about space and science and generally gain a greater appreciation for the cosmos and our place in it,” said Seth Jarvis, planetarium director. “It’s so easy to forget that every night we have an amazing astronomy program, live, right above our heads. All you have to do is look up. Astronomy Day is a national reminder that the universe is filled with beauty, mystery and wonder.”

In addition to the many planned activities, Clark Planetarium will be giving away a Celestron 50th Anniversary “FirstScope” telescope with a chance to win a NexStar 6SE computer-controlled telescope as a grand prize, courtesy of Celestron Telescopes. Astronomy magazine has also donated complimentary magazine issues that will be available to those who attend, while supplies last.

Astronomy Day Schedule: Saturday, April 24 from 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

SLAS Activity:
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.  Sun Party at Winchester Park (6400 S. 1100 W.)

Clark Planetarium Activities:
Showtimes listed below feature $1 ticket pricing at the ticket window the day of event.
12:30 p.m. Attack of the Space Pirates
1:30 p.m. "The Universe for Newbies" Lecture by Clark Planetarium Director, Seth Jarvis
2:30 p.m. Ultimate Universe
3:30 p.m. Black Holes
4:30 p.m. "Nighttime Observing Techniques" Lecture by Clark Planetarium Programs Manager, Mike Murray
1 p.m. – 5 p.m.  Complimentary activities and science demonstrations in the lobby of Clark Planetarium


University of Utah Observatory Activities:
5:30 p.m. – Dusk  Solar Observing at the South Physics Observatory (125 S. 1400 E.)
Dusk – 11 p.m. First Light Star party – weather permitting.

About Clark Planetarium: Clark Planetarium’s mission is to create and present stimulating educational programs that effectively share astronomy and space exploration information with Salt Lake County residents, Utah students, educators and families, and visitors from around the country and the world. Visit them on the web at http://www.clarkplanetarium.org/ .

About University of Utah Observatory: For 33 years, the South Physics Observatory has been providing Astronomy outreach to the Salt Lake Valley. Today, the Observatory is home to a number of telescopes and equipment to help further the education of students in the University of Utah and to the public. Visit them on the web at http://web.utah.edu/astro/ .

About SLAS: Salt Lake Astronomical Society is a private nonprofit organization comprised of hundreds of local amateur astronomers who enjoy the pleasures and benefits of an association of persons interested in astronomy. Additional information can be found at http://slas.us/default.asp .

Post-Wildfire Rehabilitation Efforts Taking Place

Photo courtesy US Forest Service

Salt Lake City, UT- Last summer the Big Pole fire was the biggest fire of the season, making resource specialists concerned about damage to soil, watershed and vegetation. The specialists developed steps to prevent further damage on affected areas. As the snowpack starts to melt, soil scientists, botanists and wildlife biologists have started to assess the speed and extent of recovery in the burned areas. Initial observations reflect positive results.

“The damage doesn’t end when the wildfire stops,” said BLM West Desert District Manager Glenn Carpenter. “Mud and floods were an immediate threat following the extreme severity of Big Pole. Now we’re entering a season where we can measure results through monitoring efforts.”

Immediately following the wildfire, ranchers, public land managers, and regional cooperatives like the Utah Partners in Conservation and Development took swift action to minimize erosion by creating check dams in drainages, building water bars and using felled trees to slow water runoff. Throughout the winter, native seed species mixture was deposited over the burned area in an effort to out-compete non-native plants and invasive weeds. Allowing vegetation to grow and thrive will be critical for recovery, land managers will continue to monitor to ensure rehabilitation plans are encouraging desirable plant growth.

US Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Rehabilitation (BAER) team monitors regrowth of native vegetation and assesses overall soil conditions in the burned areas of the Big Pole Fire. During this first visit, several species of native seedlings were visible at monitoring locations. Last fall, once the 27,000 acre Big Pole Fire was out, the BAER team set to work in assisting the return of native habitat to limit soil erosion and to protect species and community water supplies. In November 2009, the BEAR team seeded the burned area with a native seed mix to out‐compete non‐native species. The monitoring will continue at regular intervals throughout the summer.

For more information on wildfire rehabilitation, http://www.utahfireinfo.gov/ .

Utah Prehistory Week, May 1 – 8, 2010

Utah Prehistory Week celebrates the vast and unique prehistory of our state. Did you know humans have lived in Utah for at least 13,000 years? Did you realize there are significant and important ancient archaeological sites even under the modern streets of Salt Lake City? Events during Prehistory Week are for young and old and include:

May 1 – Prehistory Week Open House. Rio Grande Depot (300 S. 450 W., Salt Lake City), 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Admission is free. Visitors will be able to throw a spear with an atlatl, grind corn using stone tools, make crafts, see how spearheads and baskets were made, buy Navajo tacos, and much more.

May 4 – “Ask An Archaeologist.” Rio Grande Depot, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
State archaeologists will be available to examine any artifacts you may have. Have you always wondered how old that arrowhead you found as a kid might be? This is a chance to find out. We won’t do any appraisals, but we might be able to tell you what you’ve got.

May 5 – “The Bioarchaeology of Utah: What skeletal remains tell us about the lives of the prehistoric peoples of Utah.” Rio Grande Depot, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Bioarchaeology includes the study of human skeletal material from archaeological and paleontological sites. Physical Anthropologist Derinna Kopp of State History’s Antiquities Section will talk about what human skeletal remains from archaeological sites here in Utah teach us about the past. How healthy were ancient people in Utah? What diseases did they have? Skeletons do tell stories. This presentation is free and open to the public.

May 6 – “What is Archaeology?” A workshop for kids ages 9 - 13. Rio Grande Depot, 5 – 6 p.m.
Do you want to become an archaeologist? Come and see what archaeologists do, see some ancient artifacts, and find out why archaeological sites are important. You must pre-register for this workshop by contacting Ron Rood at 801-533-3564. The workshop is free, but space is limited.

May 8 – Tours of Danger Cave and Jukebox Cave
Visit two of Utah’s premier archaeological sites with staff from State History’s Antiquities Section. Danger Cave has a record of human use dating back more than 13,000 years. Space is limited, and you must preregister by contacting Ron Rood at rrood@utah.gov  with CAVE TOUR in the subject line or by calling 801.533.3564.

For a complete listing of statewide events, go to http://www.history.utah.gov/ , or call 801.533.3564. http://history.utah.gov/archaeology/i_love_archaeology/prehistory_week/index.html

Sediment Slowly Filling Utah’s Reservoirs

Salt Lake City, Utah -- A first-of-its-kind, comprehensive overview of sediment accumulation in Utah reservoirs is now available. The Utah Division of Water Resources (DWRe) announced the completion of the latest in a series of reports under the title of “Utah State Water Plan.”

The report, Managing Sediment in Utah’s Reservoirs, warns of the serious negative impacts of reservoir sedimentation, and offers several proven strategies to address the problem. “The report is written primarily for those who own and operate reservoirs in Utah,” said Dennis Strong, DWRe Director. “We hope it will encourage them to assess how sedimentation is impacting their reservoirs and to take the necessary actions to protect the future availability of Utah’s critical water storage facilities.”

The report addresses:
*How the traditional approach to dam building and reservoir operation disrupts the sediment balance in a stream and ultimately leads to the demise of most reservoirs

*The estimated rate of storage capacity loss in Utah’s reservoirs due to sediment accumulation

*How much of Utah’s reservoir capacity has already been lost, and will continue to be lost, if nothing is done

*Various strategies that have been used to decrease sedimentation rates

*Case studies from reservoirs in Utah and other locations

*Recommendations for future action at the state and local levels

“The report is definitely an eye-opener,” said Todd Stonely, River Basin Planning Chief. “Reservoir sedimentation is a challenge that threatens the sustainability of our water supplies. It is a problem we cannot afford to ignore.”

A copy of the report is available at the division’s web site: http://www.water.utah.gov/
http://www.water.utah.gov/Planning/ReservoirSedimant/Managing%20Sediment%20In%20Utah's%20Reservoirs1.pdf

The Division of Water Resources plans, conserves, develops and protects Utah’s water resources.

Spring conditions on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

SALT LAKE CITY, April 21, 2010 – Late winter storms have covered the mountains with several new feet of snow affecting recreation opportunities within the Forest. As the weather warms and snow melts, recreationists are beginning to think about getting out on the forest roads and trails.

“In the spring, road and trail surfaces become saturated with moisture and most often they will not sustain the weight of motorized vehicles, bicycles and livestock,” Brian Ferebee, Forest Supervisor, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. “Recreating on wet muddy roads and trails causes resource damage and it is essential that enthusiasts minimize their impact on the land.”

Forest users are responsible for knowing which roads and trails are open to motorized use. Travel Plans and Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which show the roads and trails open to motorized vehicles, are available at all Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest offices. More information is available the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache website at www.fs.usda.gov/uwcnf  .

Keep safety in mind while traveling on the Forest. Before heading out, check the weather forecast and call ahead to ranger stations for current conditions. Always pack the ten essentials: map, compass, flashlight, extra food and clothing, rain gear, first aid kit, pocket knife, matches/fire starter and cell phone. Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. Also, remember that in late spring many roads and trails are still under snow. Some popular hikes typically have dangerous avalanche conditions this time of year.

For the most current information, please contact the Ranger District Offices listed below:

Evanston/Mt. View Ranger Districts  (307) 789-3194 or (307) 782-6555
Heber-Kamas Ranger District (435) 654-0470 or (435) 783-4338
Logan Ranger District (435) 755-3620
Ogden Ranger District 801) 625-5306
Pleasant Grove Ranger District  (801) 785-3563
Salt Lake Ranger District Public Lands Information Center (801) 466-6411
Spanish Fork Ranger District (801) 798-3571

DWR Offers Free Shooting Clinics May 1

Photo courtesy RaLynne Takeda, The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.

Salt Lake City -- Does learning how to shoot a shotgun at a target that’s sailing through the air sound like fun?

How about learning how to shoot a bow and arrow?

Or, have you wanted to shoot on a shooting range but you haven’t because you’re not sure what the rules are?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may want to attend one of the free clinics the Division of Wildlife Resources is offering on May 1.

The clinics will be held at the same time—from 9 a.m. until noon—so you’ll need to choose which clinic you want to attend. And you’ll want to register soon. Each clinic is limited to the first 20 people who register for it.

You can register by contacting RaLynne Takeda at (801) 538-4753 or ralynnetakeda@utah.gov .

The DWR will hold the free clinics at its Lee Kay Public Shooting Range in Salt Lake City. The range is at 6000 W. 2100 S.

DWR instructors will provide all the equipment you need. But if you have your own equipment, please bring it.

What you’ll learn
Depending on which clinic you attend, you’ll learn and do the following:

Shotgun
You’ll learn basic shotgun shooting techniques. Then you’ll get a chance to shoot at plenty of flying clay targets on the shotgun shooting range!

Archery
You’ll learn about various bows, arrows and the latest archery equipment. Then you’ll shoot arrows at a variety of targets.

Learn about shooting ranges
You’ll learn basic firearm safety, including how to identify and unload various types of firearms. You’ll also learn how shooting ranges operate and basic procedures to follow. Then you’ll get a chance to shoot on the range!

Northern Region Fishing Report

Photo Courtesy Big Fish Tackle

BLACKSMITH FORK RIVER: (April 15) Conservation Officer Matt Burgess reports that you'll find good fishing for browns on the river and at the dam. Use worms or spinners.

BOUNTIFUL LAKE: (April 15) Although the fishing at Bountiful Lake has been slow, you'll find fair to good fishing at some of Davis County's other community fisheries. Conservation Officer Brandon Baron reports that fishing is fair at Maybe, Jensen and Kaysville ponds and good at both Steed and Farmington. Remember, there's a two-fish limit at all community ponds.

CAUSEY RESERVOIR: (April 20) Conservation Officer David Beveridge reports that the ice is coming off fast. The North Arm has open water, there is some open water off of the dam and the Skull Crack side is opening up too. Anglers report good fishing on the Skull Crack arm with standard baits.

EAST CANYON RESERVOIR & STATE PARK: (April 20) The lake ice is melting and Park Ranger Jeff Dale reports seeing signs of open water. There are more shore anglers, although the fishing is hit or miss. The mouth of the Weber River, Taylor Hollow and Dixie Hollow have all been popular. (Winter day use fees apply to the Dixie Hollow park area.) Dedicated Hunter Jeremy Willden reports success fishing the bottom 20 to 40 feet off shore with yellow and green PowerBait and worms. Floattubers are seeing great action next to the dam. Conservation Officer Jonathan Moser recommends trolling with popgear and a worm for rainbow trout. There is a lot of litter in many of the popular fishing and parking areas as the snow melts, please pack out your trash. If you're fishing from a boat, don't forget to fill out the Aquatic Invasive Species checklists that are on the boat ramp.

ECHO RESERVOIR: (April 20) Dedicated Hunter Jeremy Willden reports light pressure. One angler caught a 16-inch rainbow.

HYRUM RESERVOIR & STATE PARK: (April 20) Park Ranger Steve Bullock reports the Hyrum State Park courtesy boat dock is in and the reservoir is at capacity. Anglers report slow fishing but are catching good-sized Rainbow Trout at the east and west ends of the reservoir.

LOGAN RIVER: (April 06) Conservation Officer Matt Burgess reports that fishing is slow at the Logan River First Dam. Anglers are catching a few trout from the docks.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: (April 20) Conservation Officer Jonathan Moser reports that the ice is almost off. Only a few large ice sheets are left. After a few more days and some windy weather, Lost Creek should be open to boating. Shore anglers report success near the dam with different colors of PowerBait. Try your favorite color. If you're fishing from a boat, don't forget to fill out the Aquatic Invasive Species checklists that are on the boat ramp.

MANTUA RESERVOIR: (April 15) Biologist Ben Nadolski reports that boats can launch and fish the southern and western portions of the reservoir for rainbow trout. There should be many rainbow trout left over from when we stocked the reservoir last fall.

NEWTON RESERVOIR: (April 15) Conservation Officer Matt Burgess reports that the reservoir was still frozen around most of the lake as of April 8. Some areas have opened on the edges.

OGDEN RIVER: (April 15) Biologist Ben Nadolski reports that the water flows are pretty low, which makes the fish skittish. Fishing has been fair for browns, using small dry flies like blue wing olives (size 18 or 20 works well). You'll also have success with small nymphs like Copper Johns, pheasant tails and hare's ears (size 18 or 20).

PINEVIEW RESERVOIR: (April 20) Dedicated Hunter Jeremy Willden reports light pressure.Try using worms and marshmallows. One angler caught-and-released three bullheads.

PORCUPINE RESERVOIR: (April 15) Conservation Officer Matt Burgess reports that the edges are open around the reservoir.

ROCKPORT RESERVOIR: (April 20) Dedicated Hunter Jeremy Willden reports great fishing. He used a variety of PowerBait colors and fished on the bottom from 15 to 30 yards out. The ice should melt by the weekend; the water temperature is between 25 and 30 degrees. The peak fishing times at Rockport are between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and in the evenings between 4–5 p.m. Rainbows are averaging 14 to 18 inches. Conservation Officer Bruce Johnson reports the boat ramp is accessible and that all of the shorelines have fishable water. The water levels are rising slowly. If you're fishing from a boat, don't forget to fill out the Aquatic Invasive Species checklists that are on the boat ramp.

WEBER RIVER: (April 20) Biologist Paul Thompson reports that, between Echo and Rockport reservoir, the water clarity improves as you move upstream toward Rockport. The water is cloudy near Coalville, which may make it more difficult to catch fish. From Echo Reservoir downstream to Morgan, flows are low and the water is mostly clear, so fishing should be good. Brown trout are extremely aggressive in the Weber this time of year. Try using darker colors like black, olive or brown. Conservation Officer Jonathan Moser reports that the water is cloudy downstream from about Morgan.

Please notify the Division if you see any violations or problems. Also, remember to please pack out your garbage. Not all the garbage on the river is due to anglers. Garbage gets dumped by many who are just traveling through. However, if every anglers took a few minutes to pick up and pack out garbage, it would certainly improve the area.

WILLARD BAY RESERVOIR: (April 20) Mike Bolinski reports that fishing is slow, but anglers are beginning to catch a few black crappies and wipers. The water temperatures have risen to 55 but have been fluctuating with the weather. Fishing pressure has increased significantly. Anglers are lining the shores of the north marina and several boat anglers are fishing the inside and outside of the marina. Try targeting black crappie with small jigs and bait underneath a float. A very slow retrieve has been the most effective method. Some anglers report limited success targeting wipers along the dykes. Try working crank baits erratically. Fishing may slow down this week because of the upcoming cooler weather.

Upcoming Utah State Parks Events

May 7 -8 Escalante Petrified Forest State Park - Escalante
International Migratory Bird Celebration: Enjoy beautiful photography and learn to identify birds of prey during a presentation by the local U.S. Forest Service raptor biologist Friday, May 7 at 8 p.m. Go bird watching with the park naturalist on Saturday, May 8 at 8 a.m. Kids can enjoy bird games and activities on Saturday, May 8 from 10 a.m. until noon. Prizes and fun for all! Meet at the visitor center for all events. (435) 826-4466

May 7 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Up in the Night - Intro to Bats: Join Wildlife Biologist Keith Day at 7:30 p.m. and learn more about bats and who's up in the night. You might get a chance to 'see' their calls recorded on an Anabat detector! (435) 628-2255
May 8 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Snow Canyon Geology Hike: From volcanic activity and lava flows to petrified sand dunes, learn about the shaping power of geologic forces. Join geologist Janice Hayden on this two-mile, roundtrip hike at 9 a.m. Program registration is held two days preceding the scheduled event. All programs are free and open to the public. (435) 628-2255

May 12 Antelope Island State Park - Syracuse
Volunteer Project - Weed Control: Weeds are a big problem on Antelope Island and we need help controlling them. Join park staff for a day of weed control beginning at 8 a.m. at the park’s headquarters (near bison corrals). (801) 807-9456 or (801) 209-4678

Lake Course at Wasatch Mountain open for Season

Midway -- The Lake Course at Wasatch Mountain State Park Golf Course is now open for play. Though April, greens fees are $37 for 18 holes with cart. The Mountain Course will open as soon as weather and snow conditions permit.

The Soldier Hollow Silver Course, also at Wasatch Mountain State Park, is open for play at a limited-time rate of $27 for 18 holes with cart.

For more information or for tee times, call Wasatch Mountain Golf Course at (435) 654-0532 or (801) 266-0268. For Soldier Hollow Golf Course, call (435) 654-7442 or (801) 261-4733.

Boating Safety Tip of the Week

Salt Lake City – Safe boating includes making sure your boat and equipment are in top condition and safe to operate on Utah’s waters.

Boating managers encourage boat owners to seek professional help from a reputable marine dealer or repair shop for all repairs. Inspect the following items before heading out for the season:

Motor
- Change oil and oil filter
- Check spark plugs and plug wires
- Check fuel filters
- Replace hoses and clamps as needed
- Check fuel tank, fuel lines and fuel level; replace primer bulb if cracked
- Ensure engine oil, power steering, and power trim levels are full
- Remove obstructions from the water intake
- Verify operation of bilge pump
- Check and change coolant, store extra onboard
- Test belts for tension and condition
- Check transmission fluid level
- Clean backfire flame arrestor

Trailer
- Inflate tires to proper pressure, replace low tread or cracked sidewalls
- Repair rollers and pads as needed
- Inspect brakes
- Repack bearings and hubs
- Clean and lubricate tongue jack and winch
- Inspect brake lights and turn signals

For more information on boating safety, please visit stateparks.utah.gov or call (801) 538-BOAT (2268). Wear it Utah!

A Field Day for National Park Collectors

WASHINGTON – Pssst…philatelists, numismatists, parkies – you know who you are. National Park Week has good things in store for you.

If it’s the cha-ching of change or shiny, new things that capture you, check out the first coin in the America the Beautiful QuartersTM series, released in Arkansas. Hot Springs National Park graces this stunning quarter and blazes a beautiful trail for a Yellowstone National Park quarter in June, Yosemite National Park in July, and Grand Canyon National Park in September. You can purchase the coins from the United States Mint at http://www.usmint.gov/ .

Prefer your paraphernalia gummed and perforated? The Grandest Things: Our National Parks in Words, Images, and Stamps made its debut when Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, Postmaster General John E. Potter, and National Park Service Deputy Director Dan Wenk unveiled it at the Smithsonian’s Postal Museum. The 116-page hardcover book, produced by the U.S. Postal Service and the National Park Service is unique in its inclusion of both famous parks and smaller gems – plus, it includes nine mint stamps—including the 1972 Old Faithful, Yellowstone.

And, if all this isn’t enough to throw your collecting instinct into primal-overdrive – the United States Postal Service revealed Scenic American Landscapes premium stamped postcards in a first-day-of-issue-ceremony. The set of 20 stamped cards showcases 10 spectacular national park photographs originally featured on Scenic American Landscapes stamps issued over the past decade.

The Grandest Things and the Scenic American Landscapes postcards are available now at http://www.stampproducts.com/parksbook/  and soon at select national park bookstores.

Jon Jarvis, National Park Service Director said, “For people who love their parks or love collecting, these commemoratives will bring memories of fun times with family and friends; for those who are just learning about their national parks, this book, the postcards, and series of quarters is a great way to get acquainted. I hope everyone will discover a new national park this National Park Week.”

In honor of National Park Week (www.nps.gov/npweek ), entrance is free at national parks from April 17-25, 2010.

Southern Region Fishing Report

Photo Courtesy Big Fish Tackle

BAKER RESERVOIR: (April 16) The water level is rising quickly and the Division has stocked catchable-sized rainbows. Shore anglers are having slow to fair success with bait. One angler reports good success trolling with rapalas. Float tubes should also help. A few anglers have caught nice browns.

BARKER RESERVOIRS (NORTH CREEK LAKES): (April 16) All of the Boulder Mountain lakes will open to fishing on April 17, except for Dougherty Basin Lake which is closed until July 10. Access is very limited by deep snow. There is very little pressure.

BEAVER MOUNTAIN LAKES: (April 16) You can access most of the lakes with a snowmobile. Fishing pressure is light throughout the winter, with Little Reservoir and Kent's Lake receiving the most pressure. The ice is starting to soften at Little Reservoir.

BEAVER RIVER, LOWER: (April 16) The irrigation season began on April 1 and flows can increase at any time. As of April 12, irrigation releases had not yet begun. Unlike some other tailwaters, irrigation flows on the Beaver River do not hinder fishing as much. Recent surveys found that trout numbers are down from the past few years. There is not much fishing pressure.

BEAVER RIVER, UPPER: (April 16) The ice is gone from most of the river, except for the highest reaches. Major runoff has not started yet, so flows are low and clear.

BOULDER MOUNTAIN: (April 16) All Boulder Mountain lakes will open to fishing on April 17. The snow pack is very high and access is limited to snowmobiles.

CLEAR CREEK: (April 16) The lower section in the state park is murky with runoff. There is clear water above the narrows.

CORN CREEK: (April 16) The gates are closed at the National Forest boundary on Corn Creek, Chalk Creek and Oak Creek.

DUCK CREEK POND / ASPEN MIRROR LAKE: (April 16) Duck Creek and Aspen-Mirror will open again on April 17. Deep snow is making it difficult to access Aspen-Mirror. Catchable-sized rainbow trout will be stocked in May. Until then, fishing will be slow to fair for holdover rainbows. The early season is the best time to target brook trout. Try fishing dark-colored marabou jigs and wooly buggers close to the bottom.

EAST FORK SEVIER RIVER IN KINGSTON CANYON: (April 16) The water level is low and a little murky. Tread lightly to avoid spooking fish. The irrigation season starts April 15 and flows can increase any time after that. It is more difficult to fish when the irrigation flows are active.

EAST FORK SEVIER RIVER, BLACK CANYON: (April 16) The flows are generally low and clear but can get murky at any time from localized runoff—especially on warm afternoons. One angler reports fair success with a pheasant tail or a blue-wing olive during a small afternoon hatch.

ENTERPRISE RESERVOIR, UPPER: (April 16) The ice is gone, the upper reservoir is filling and access is good. The water is a little murky because of the rapidly rising lake level. One angler reports fair to good fishing for rainbows with nightcrawlers, and slower success with flies. A recent sampling showed that the rainbows stocked in 2009 have survived well and will be growing fast. There are a lot of 10- to 12-inch fish, with good numbers reaching 14 to 15 inches. Catchable-sized rainbows have been stocked in the lower reservoir.

FISH LAKE: (April 16) Access is getting better because the snow drifts next to the highway have started to melt down. The snow has been blown off the ice. The recent warm weather is creating some slush on top, especially in the afternoon. There is a lot of open water around Twin Creek and a little at the other tributaries as well. If the present mild weather pattern holds, the ice will likely start to deteriorate within 2 or 3 weeks.

Fishing pressure has really dropped off, but fishing is fair to good for most of the anglers that make the trip. You will find the best fishing at 30 to 35 feet. Try tipping jigs with perch meat and fish near the bottom for splake, as well as a few rainbows and perch. Anglers have caught some nice rainbows down 20 to 30 feet over deep water. Some anglers are finding success for perch and small trout in more shallow water, in the 15 to 20 foot range. The bite is usually very light, so attentive anglers are having the best success. You can pick up small lake trout at 80 to 95 feet on large tube jigs tipped with fish meat. Catching large lake trout is rare and requires a lot of patience. Please do not discard perch on the ice, it is illegal to abandon or waste any fish.

FORSYTH RESERVOIR: (April 16) The ice is softening and unsafe. Open water is appearing at the inlets. The ice should be completely off within two weeks. One angler reports slow fishing in the open water.

FREMONT RIVER: (April 16) The road from Mill Meadow to Fish Lake is not plowed. Winter fishing can be fair to good in the Bicknell Bottoms.

GUNLOCK RESERVOIR: (April 16) The reservoir is filling. Largemouth bass were restocked in 2009 and got off a very successful spawning season. There will be a lot of small fish this year, up to 10 inches. There are not many large brood fish, so don't plan on targeting them. Bass fishing usually doesn't pick up until late April.

IRON COUNTY COMMUNITY FISHERIES: (April 16) Rainbow trout have been stocked in Parowan Pond. Leigh Hill Reservoir in Cedar City will open to fishing on July 1, 2010.

KOLOB RESERVOIR: (April 16) Access is limited to snowmobile. There is little ice fishing pressure because of the poor access. Ice fishing can be good if you can get to the reservoir. Remember that the new limit for 2010 is two trout less than 15 inches or over 22 inches. All trout from 15 to 22 inches must be released. Fishing with bait will not open until the third Saturday in May.

KOOSHAREM RESERVOIR: (April 16) The reservoir is still ice-covered, but the ice is starting to get soft. There is no fishing pressure.

LOWER BOWNS RESERVOIR: (April 16) The ice is starting to come off, but access is difficult because of the snow. If you can get in on a snowmobile or ATV, ice-off fishing could be good.

MILL MEADOW RESERVOIR: (April 16) The ice is nearly gone. We have mixed reports on fishing. A few anglers are doing well for browns by casting lures from shore. Others report slower success with bait. Anglers are encouraged to harvest perch in order to help the population stay in balance with the available food. Remember that the perch limit has been increased to 50.

MINERSVILLE RESERVOIR: (April 16) There is light fishing pressure. Fishing is generally slow with scattered periods of good fishing. Most anglers are using nymphs, midges and wooly buggers—with about the same success for each pattern. Fish are often cruising right next to the bank, so long casts and extensive wading are usually not necessary. Target points and bays with gravel shorelines. Recent surveys found that trout are making a comeback. There are good numbers of 12- to 14-inch rainbows available, as well as a fair number of larger fish up to 21 inches. Trout should grow fast this year with an improved reservoir water level and quality. Remember that the use or possession of bait, including scented lures, is prohibited at Minersville Reservoir.

NAVAJO LAKE: (April 16) There is plenty of ice but access is limited to snowmobile. Recent angler reports indicate good fishing for splake. Try light-colored jigs or flashy spoons tipped with cutbait (like chub or sucker) or half a minnow.

NEWCASTLE RESERVOIR: (April 16) Recent surveys found good numbers of 10- and 14-inch rainbows, as well as both medium and large wipers. Wipers are schooling fairly close to shore. Trout fishing is slow to fair with bait. We have no reports of anglers catching wipers being so far this season.

OTTER CREEK RESERVOIR & STATE PARK: (April 16) The ice is gone and fishing pressure has increased dramatically, although fishing success is fairly spotty. A few anglers are finding fair to good success, but fishing is slow for most. The few fish that anglers are catching are good-sized and in great condition. Recent surveys found that rainbow trout numbers are still as high as ever, though the population has shifted a little toward smaller fish. There are a lot of 10- to 12-inch fish present, but these fish should grow quickly this year. There is also a good number of larger rainbows—between 16 and 20 inches—available, but not in the abundance we've seen in recent years. Heavy fishing and harvest pressure have likely contributed to the shift in size structure, and to the spotty fishing success many anglers experienced over the last year. Good water levels this year should result in fast growth and more quality-sized fish.

PANGUITCH LAKE: (April 16) Altogether, the ice is about three feet thick with some slush layers in the middle. There is very little pressure because of the deep snow around the lake. The snow on top of the ice has mostly frozen or blown off. One angler reports good success with PowerBait. Remember that cutthroat and tiger trout 15–22 inches must be released. For help with fish identification, refer to page 40 in the Utah Fishing Guidebook.

PINE LAKE: (April 16) Access is still limited by snow. The ice should be coming off soon.

PIUTE RESERVOIR: (April 16) The ice is gone and shore fishing pressure has increased, though success is slow. Recent surveys found that the fish stocked last fall after the reservoir refilled have survived well. There are decent numbers of 12- to 14-inch rainbow trout present, as well as a few brood rainbows and browns. The Division also stocked 8- to 10-inch rainbows recently. This year's improved water levels should result in fast growth. In addition, extra fish from the hatchery will be stocked in Piute as often as possible.

QUAIL LAKE: (April 16) The recent cold weather and cold water from upstream have meant the water temperature is rising very slowly. Daytime temperatures are still hovering in the low to mid-50s and bass are staying deep. Continue using coldwater bass techniques until the water gets into the 60s. Make sure you fish during the warmest part of the day and use a very slow retrieve—dead-sticking is often the best technique. Many bass anglers prefer drop-shot rigs in cold weather. Don't be afraid to use larger plastics or even hardware. Fish are usually deep, in the 20 to 30 foot range.

SAND HOLLOW RESERVOIR: (April 16) The storms and cold weather over the last couple of weeks have slowed how much the water temperature is rising. The water is still just reaching the upper 50s in the afternoon. Look for the temperature to reach 60 as soon as we get a few warm days strung together. Anglers have seen a few large bass moving into the shallows in pre-spawn mode. These fish are spooked easily, however, and most anglers are finding better success fishing deeper. Action should start to really pick up over the next couple of weeks, if the warmer weather prevails.

SEVIER RIVER IN MARYSVALE CANYON: (April 16) The irrigation season starts on April 15, so flows can increase at any time after that.

THOUSAND LAKE MOUNTAIN: (April 16) Access is limited. (The best access is from I-70.) Ice fishing can be good to excellent in Solomon Basin.

WASHINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY FISHERIES: (April 16) Rainbow trout have been stocked regularly and fishing is fair to good. Beginning Jan 1, 2010, all Utah community fisheries have a new limit of 2 fish, in any combination of species. (For example: two trout, or one trout and 1 bluegill, or 2 bluegill, etc.)

WIDE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: (March 04) The reservoir has been drained so that the dam can be rebuilt. It will be filled again in 2011.

YANKEE MEADOW RESERVOIR: (April 16) Access is limited to snowmobile. Fishing is slow.

Central Utah Region fishing report

DWR Biologist Jordan Nielson shows the huge northern pike biologists found in gillnets during survey work at Yuba Reservoir on April 14. After taking a couple of photos, the pike was released back into the reservoir.

Photo courtesy of Scoot Root, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

BURRASTON PONDS: (April 16) The pond is stocked weekly with trout and fishing is good. Most anglers are using traditional baits and lures.

CANYON VIEW PARK POND: (April 16) There is open water. The pond is stocked weekly with trout.

DEER CREEK RESERVOIR: (April 16) There is open water and the water level is high. Walleye success should pick up in near future. Trout success is fair.

DIAMOND FORK RIVER: (April 16) Anglers report slow to fair success. You can use bait, but most anglers prefer using flies.

GRANTSVILLE RESERVOIR: (April 16) The reservoir was recently stocked. Anglers report good success with using traditional baits and lures.

HIGHLAND GLEN PARK: (April 16) The pond is stocked weekly with trout.

JORDANELLE RESERVOIR: (April 16) There is open water. Fishing success is fair with any method from a boat, float tube or the shoreline.

KIDNEY POND: (April 16) The pond is stocked with trout every week.

MIDAS POND: (April 16) The pond is stocked with trout every week.

MILL HOLLOW RESERVOIR: (April 16) Highway 35 may still be closed or unplowed. If you can access the reservoir, please use caution and check the ice.

NINE MILE RESERVOIR: (April 16) Angler Perry Bunderson of Moore, Utah brought in a lunker 9-pound tiger trout a couple of weeks ago. Try using traditional baits and lures.

PALISADE RESERVOIR & STATE PARK: (April 16) Angler Scott Hansen reports that there is no ice on the reservoir, but there is still snow on the banks. It snowed while he was there and probably again this week. Scott caught two 15-inch tiger trout and his son caught one rainbow.

PAYSON LAKE: (April 05) Gate to canyon is closed for the season.

PROVO RIVER, LOWER: (April 16) The tributaries west of I-15 are closed to fishing until 6:00 a.m. on May 1st. Anglers report good success with small (size 20 or smaller) midge imitations above I-15 and up to Deer Creek Dam. Sow bugs are also a good pattern.

PROVO RIVER, MIDDLE: (April 16) Try using size 20 or smaller midges, sow bugs and small and dark-colored nymphs. There special regulations on much of the Provo River, read the Utah Fishing Guidebook for details.

SALEM POND: (April 16) Salem Pond is stocked with trout every week.

SETTLEMENT CANYON RESERVOIR: (April 16) The reservoir is mostly open water. Angler report fair success with traditional baits.

SPANISH OAKS RESERVOIR: (April 16) The reservoir is stocked with trout weekly. Anglers report fair to good success with baits and lures.

SPRING LAKE: (April 16) The lake is stocked with trout on weekly basis. Anglers report slow fishing for catfish.

STRAWBERRY RESERVOIR: (April 16) Anglers report that the ice is over two feet thick. But it's often a layer of hard slush that can have some wet slush underneath. Wear waterproof boots on warm days. Fishing success is fair. Several parking areas are plowed but you can't drive past the Strawberry Marina turnoff. Try bait tipped jigs or dead minnows. If you aren't finding success, move locations. Read the Utah Fishing Guidebook to learn about Strawberry's special regulations.

THISTLE CREEK: (April 16) Anglers report slow to fair success. You can use bait, but most anglers prefer using flies.

TIBBLE FORK RESERVOIR: (April 16) There is open water and fair success with traditional baits and lures.

UTAH LAKE: (April 16) Walleye anglers report slow success this week, but fishing should pick up again soon. The tributaries west of I-15 closed to fishing on March 1 and won't open again until 6:00 a.m. on May 1.

VERNON RESERVOIR: (April 16) Anglers report fair with traditional baits and lures.

VIVIAN PARK POND: (April 16) Anglers report fair success.

WILLOW POND: (April 16) Anglers report good success. Willow will be stocked on a weekly basis this year.

YUBA RESERVOIR & STATE PARK: (April 16) There is open water. DWR Biologist Jordan Nielson found—and released—a 43-inch, 17-pound northern pike in a recent gillnet survey. (That pike is still in the reservoir, so you still have a chance to catch him!) Other than Division biologists, there wasn't anyone else on the reservoir during the gillnet survey. The walleye and northern pike are very healthy looking. May and June are usually the best months to fish Yuba. Visit www.stateparks.utah.gov for current conditions.

Southeastern Region Fishing Report

Two boys cleaning up at the end of their ice fishing trip to Scofield Reservoir.

Photo by Brent Stettler

 
ABAJO MOUNTAINS: (April 16) Sergeant J. Shirley reports that Recapture Reservoir, Blanding #3 and Blanding #4 are all open water. Loyds Lake, Monticello Lake and Foy Reservoir are either frozen or inaccessible.

GIGLIOTTI POND: (April 16) Two weeks ago, this Helper area pond was stocked with retired brood trout, which are using for spawning purposes, from the Eagan Hatchery. These trout averaged about a pound in size—although some two pound fish were among those planted. Try a variety of spinners and baits until you find a winner.


HUNTINGTON GAME FARM POND: (April 16) This pond, located at the Division's Huntington Game Bird Farm, was stocked with 1,000 catchable-sized (8- to 10-inch) rainbow trout on April 15. So fishing should be good." Huntington Reservoir,Brent Stettler,Slow,"The ice is still too thick to penetrate.

HUNTINGTON NORTH RESERVOIR: (April 16) The reservoir is ice-free. Aquatics Program Manager Paul Birdsey encourages anglers to fish along the rocky face of the dam when the water temperature is over 50. Once the water hits that temperature, largemouth bass will be vulnerable to plastic baits. As the water temperature climbs, the weedy north end should provide good bass fishing with spinnerbaits.

HUNTINGTON RESERVOIR: (April 15) The ice remains too thick to penetrate.

JOES VALLEY RESERVOIR: (April 16) The ice is weak and beginning to recede from the shoreline. That means that ice fishing season is over. It may be a week before shoreline fishing becomes productive.

LA SAL MOUNTAINS: (April 16) Conservation Officer TJ Robertson reports slow fishing at Kens Lake, despite the recent trout stocking.

MILLSITE RESERVOIR & STATE PARK: (April 16) This reservoir is ice-free. Aquatics Technician Randall Stilson spoke with an angler who found fast fishing anchoring 75 feet from the dam and using a black marabou jig. The angler mostly caught 14- to 15-inch cutthroat trout. Another angler reported good fishing trolling with a red and silver Triple Teaser. His biggest fish was a two pound cutthroat.

On April 8, Tom Ogden flyfished from a tube and caught 14 trout, ranging from 12 to 16 inches. Tom caught the fish within casting distance from shore in 6 to 14 feet of water with a medium sink line and a size 8 beadhead black and green tinsel soft hackle fly.

Lieutenant Carl Gramlich fished Millsite last weekend and reported slow fishing from a boat and the bank. Gramlich spoke to an angler who caught a three pound fish on the north shore by the dame the day before. Gramlich recommends baits for best results.

SCOFIELD RESERVOIR: (April 16) On April 10, Desert Lake Superintendent Roy Marchant reports good success for tiger trout, cutthroats and rainbows. He caught a number of cutthroat and tiger trout ranging from 14 to 20 inches. The rainbows averaged 12 inches. Most fish were taken from the bottom. Marchant used a chartreuse jighead tipped with minnows. He fished in the dam cove and estimated the ice was 30 inches thick. He best action was between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

The ice pack remains thick, except at the inlet. Water is not being released. The lake is filling only slightly, but that is still causing the edges to soften and leading to some open water.

One angler reported fast fishing. He said he had so many hits that he couldn't keep both of his poles in the water at the same time. Another angler reported fast fishing on April 11.

Scofield has special regulations. Read the Utah Fishing Guidebook for details.

Utah’s Tastiest Fish? Try Walleye!

Scott Root has talked to hundreds of anglers during the 20 years he’s complied fishing reports for the Division of Wildlife Resources. Without hesitation, he says most of them list walleye as Utah’s “tastiest” fish.
Other great-tasting fish include perch, catfish and bass.

“Personally, walleye are my favorite because the fillets don’t taste fishy or oily,” Root says. “They’re light, mild and flakey. I’ve never had anyone tell me they didn’t enjoy them.

“Fish are an important part of a healthy diet, and more and more people are including fish in their meals,” he says. “There’s a lot of interest right now in trying new types of fish.”


Spring: a popular time to catch walleye
Roots says Utah Lake, Lake Powell, and Willard Bay, Deer Creek, Yuba and Starvation reservoirs are Utah’s major walleye waters.

Walleye spawn in the spring, so spring is a great time to catch them. They’ll be heading to tributaries and spawning areas within the main body of water.

April is a popular month to target walleye. Lake Powell is among the exceptions, though. The lake tends to produce its best walleye fishing in May and June. Fall fishing can be excellent at all of these waters too.


Try these techniques
If you’re ready to catch some of these tasty fish, Root provides tips and techniques to try:

- The most effective technique is to cast a lure that imitates a minnow. Then retrieve (or troll) the lure very slowly along the bottom of the water you’re fishing.

Unlike most fish species, walleye often strike lures softly. When a walleye strikes, you might think you just ran your lure through some vegetation. Actually, you may have a walleye on the end of your line!

- Another effective technique is to cast dead minnows or worms, and then let them settle on or near the bottom of the water you’re fishing. Make sure you watch the tip of your fishing rod closely to detect any movement.

- Walleye are predators. They usually feed at dawn and dusk, and throughout the night. Those are the best times to catch them.

Fishing at Utah Lake
Root reminds you that the tributaries to Utah Lake are closed to fishing until May 1 to protect walleye that are spawning in them.

Popular walleye fishing spots at Utah Lake include both jetties at Utah Lake State Park, the “bubble up” area near Lindon Harbor, Lincoln Beach at the south end of the lake, lake areas where tributaries feed into the lake, and along the edges of shallow areas that provide the fish with structure and vegetation.

Fishing reports for Utah Lake and all of Utah’s major fishing waters is available at www.wildlife.utah.gov/fishing/reports.php .

Catch Big Pike at Yuba

Nephi -- Want to know what it feels like to catch a fish that’s more than three feet long and weighs almost 20 pounds?
You might find out if you grab your fishing gear—including a foot or two of metal leader—and head to Yuba Reservoir in the next few months.

On April 14, Division of Wildlife Resources biologists were conducting gillnet surveys at this reservoir in central Utah. What they found when they pulled one of the nets out of the water took their breath away.

Inside was a huge northern pike. The fish was more than 43 inches long and weighed over 17 pounds.

That puts this pike close to the current Utah state record. The current record was caught at Yuba in 2002 by Henry Fenning. That pike weighed 25 pounds and was 43½ inches long.

The official Utah “catch-and-release” northern pike record is a 49¾-inch fish caught by Logan Hacking at Lake Powell in 1998.

Hacking’s fish was not weighed.


Not the only big pike!
The huge pike biologists caught and placed back in the reservoir on April 14 isn’t the only big pike biologists have caught at Yuba during gillnet surveys this spring. Other big and healthy pike—and big and healthy walleye—have been caught at the reservoir too.

Biologists conduct gillnet surveys by setting nets in the reservoir for an hour or two and then pulling the nets back to the surface. After measuring and weighing the fish, the fish are released back into the water.

Tips
May and June are usually the best months to catch northern pike and walleye at Yuba. To catch pike, DWR biologists suggest the following:

- Fish in water that’s five feet or less deep. Fishing from the shore works great!

- Use lures that imitate minnows. These lures include plugs (crank baits), jigs and spoons.

- Tie a foot or two of metal leader between your fishing line and your lure. Northern pike have sharp teeth. Using metal leader is a good way to keep the pike from biting through your line!

Getting there
Yuba Reservoir is just off I-15, about 30 miles south of Nephi in central Utah. For more information about fishing at the reservoir, call the DWR’s Central Region office at (801) 491-5678. Updated fishing reports for Yuba are available at www.wildlife.utah.gov/fishing/reports.php .

Utah County Gleaning Program seeks Volunteers

Photo Courtesy Arbor Day Foundation

If you are like many in our times you have driven by a beautiful fruit tree with its bounty on the ground and thought of all the people that could have benefited from this wasted fruit.

 The Gleaning Program promoted by the Utah County Food Bank has a solution to assist both the landowner and those seeking to have a more secure long term food supply, and also those who are concerned with the plight of others around them.

Those who are willing to volunteer their time can benefit in a few different ways. Unlike other Food Bank programs, the volunteers themselves are allowed to keep what is harvested due to their efforts.

Often, they will also contribute to the stores in the Food Bank itself.

In 2009 a local apple orchard was put into the program. Over 1500 trees of Red Delicious apples were harvested into the hands of Utah County residents also assisted by volunteers from UVU and BYU.

This is an exciting, development as it allows the economy to grow when residents have more self security within their own homes. Participants are also invited to join in classes teaching canning and dehydrating for long term storage, also preventing waste of the bounty we share.

In April 20l0 we are recruiting volunteers to assist in pruning this orchard.

We are continually looking for trees/produce that members of the community would like to be harvested .

There are many different ways that you can become a part of this effort!

Interested?

To learn how you and/or your group can participate in this exciting event, please email Fauna Smith at utahcountygleaning@gmail.com

Optimal Nutrition from Purina for the Working/Sporting Dog

For everyone of us that has ventured afield with a canine companion, we know the value of having a well-bred dog that has strong hunting deisre, is healthy, and well trained. All of these traits contribute to the overall performance of the dog in the field. Yet, there is one underlying factor that can undermine or optimize all of these traits either directly or indirectly, and that is the food the dog eats and the nutrients it receives.

I think you would all agree that the ultimate goal with any hunting dog is to optimize its performance, which can mean learning faster, hunting longer, finding more game, or many other things that lead to hunting success. We all know that hunting success with our dogs is intricately linked with training and conditioning of the dog, along with time in the field hunting. What may not be obvious is that our hunting dogs are essentially elite canine athletes. Lets briefly think about what they do during a hunt; they willingly run prolonged distances, possibly up, down, and across difficult terrain, over and under obstacles, sprint periodically or often, swim periodically, and occasionally carry something in their mouth, likely while running. The only thing that is missing is bike riding, but then it would be called an Irondog event. Strenuous exercise is inherent in hunting and training and can be physically and mentally challenging to the dog. Therefore, one strategy for addressing these physical and mental challenges is to "optimize the nutrition", which can optimize endurance and ultimately promote "optimal performance".

We hear everyday that if we eat "better", we can be stronger, leaner, healthier, and/or more alert. This logic can be applied to our dog's well-being and hunting performance, but what does "better" mean? When you think of "better" nutrition, think of optimizing nutrition. This is the consumption of key nutrients in an optimal balance that provide optimal benefits. The six basic nutrient groups are water, protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, and minerals. They can all be found in any dog food, but the optimal levels and balance of these nutrient groups are what separate different types of dog food for targeted applications. For example, a maintenance food is different from a senior food is different from a weight management food, because of differences in the balance of nutrients and nutrient groups. Likewise, performance food for hardworking dogs is different than a maintenance food, and for a variety of reasons.

For this discussion, I am defining a performance food as a formula with 28-30% protein and 18-20% fat, compared to a maintenance food that has 24-26% protein and 12-16% fat. A dog can adequately hunt and live an active and healthy lifestyle with the maintenance food, but the key here is optimal performance. With a performance food, some examples that are worth discussing are how protein and fat optimize endurance, optimize mental alertness, and promote optimal body condition.

Nutrition studies with dogs have shown that feeding a food with higher levels of fat will result in more fatty acids being present in the blood before exercise, and these levels will increase more after exercise compared to a food with lower fat and higher carbohydrates. Fatty acids are important for hardworking and hunting dogs because these are the nutrients that are critical for endurance based exercise. Ultimately, more fatty acids in the blood means more nutrients to promote endurance metabolism, as they are present and ready for use by exercising muscles.

These fatty acids get used by the muscles to make energy for movement, which occurs in the "furnaces" of the cells called mitochondria. In dogs fed a high fat food, their muscles have more mitochondria, which means more capacity to use or "burn" the fatty acids. Finally, dogs on high fat foods also have a greater capacity to metabolize oxygen, which also occurs at the mitochondria. Elevated dietary protein complements the benefits associated with the increased fat metabolism, as a greater abundance of protein building blocks (ie. amino acids) from the food promotes a state of muscle growth that enables increased mitochondrial biosynthesis and increased vascular capacity. For prolonged endurance, efficient use of oxygen is critical, which is why is it called aerobic-based exercise. If you have ever watched a marathon, you don't typically see any runner breathing very hard, primarily because they are conditioned, but equally important is that they can efficiently use the oxygen they are breathing at the moderate speed and intensity that they are running.

So what does all this mean? That a performance food can deliver more fat and protein nutrients, promote an increase in capacity to metabolize the fat, and promote a higher oxygen use capacity, all to increase metabolic capacity and energy generation. In short, this means that the food can "metabolically prime" our dogs to promote optimal endurance.

Now, let's flip this rational on its head and describe why feeding a performance formula all year long is optimal. For some of you reading this article, dog training and conditioning may be a year-round process, so feeding performance all year may be part of your regimen. For others, training/conditioning may begin in August or September to get the dogs ready for the upcoming season.

If having our hunting dogs on a performance food during the hunting season provides the metabolic benefits for promoting endurance, then switching to a maintenance food in the off-season will reverse the effects. So, when February/March rolls around and a person decided to make this switch because the dog is not hunting or training, this is basically "de-training" your dog metabolically. This is in addition to the fact that the dog is likely not as active as in the hunting season. It is worth mentioning that this process of metabolic transition takes about 2-3 months. Therefore, anyone that decided to start training again in August and made the switch back to a performance food at that same time, optimal metabolic endurance may not be achieved until the end of September or October. This is 2-3 months of sub-optimal training, and if the food switch occurred later, then this could possibly overlap with part of the hunting season, depending on where in the country you are located.

We have all had dogs that have gone beyond their limit during training, and focus and trainability are reduced. Our goal is to avoid this and provide opportunities to help the dog retain its focus and trainability. No food ever takes the place of proper training and conditioning, but having a feeding strategy of using a performance food all year can allow the dog to be metabolically primed and at a better starting point once training/conditioning begins.

Now, every strategy comes with a condition and this is no exception, but it is easy and critical for success. Like every person, every dog is an individual. Therefore, the amount of food to be fed should be directly related to the individual dog's body condition and adjusted based on the calorie needs. When dogs consume excess calories, they gain weight. When they consume less, they lose weight. The key is to feed an amount that is appropriate to maintain a healthy body condition, and thus stable body weight during the hunting season and in the off-season. So, that is the bottom-line to the "strategy". In the off-season when your dog is less active, hunting less, sleeping the summer days away...feed less performance food to maintain an ideal body condition. To determine your dog's ideal body condition, I suggest you discuss this with your veterinarian, who will likely have Nestle Purina body condition charts or literature for you to take home. In addition, I have included a website that provides an overview of how to assess your dog's body condition -(http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx ) There are simple things you can evaluate and regularly monitor to ensure that your dog is getting the right amount of food to maintain a healthy weight.

Finally, performance formulas can also provide a benefit to promote optimal mental alertness, and is another way to get a little more out of early training sessions or keep them going stronger towards the end of the hunt. One of the ways fatigue sets in with people and pets is the depletion of blood glucose levels during exercise. Glucose during exercise mostly comes from body stores of glycogen in muscle and liver. Glucose released from the liver is critical for brain function. As blood glucose levels start to decline, fatigue sensation occurs and mental alertness is reduced. To address this, the foods with higher fat promote a situation where the body stores less and uses less glycogen from the muscles during exercise. Therefore during exercise, the blood glucose from liver glycogen is more readily available to support brain function for promoting mental endurance, whereas the fatty acids from the performance food are available for the muscles to promote physical endurance.

Performance formulas give our dogs those extra calories they need during the hunting season when working hard and temperatures drop. But, there are many more benefits than just providing the extra calories. Optimizing these benefits all year long can help to make every hunt and every season the best it can be for you and your hunting.