Saturday, April 25, 2015

Detroit River Fishing-Still Good But Slowing Down

According to the people that fish it regularly, the Detroit River is one-of-a-kind. "We have a world-class fishery here," tournament angler Bob Luellen said.
"The Detroit River is always good," former touring pro Mark Sak said. "I admire those guys that go out and handling," he added.
According to Sak, "There's a secret about the Detroit River. It's phenomenal after dark." Just be sure you know where you are at and where you are going. The river isn't a place to take chance or get caught with little or no experience.
These past several weeks have yielded many catches of fish in the nine-pound- plus range. Those five-pounders and "eater size" are barely getting any recognition.
Even though the spawn is over for the most part, there are still fish in the river. Catching them is another thing.
"There are so many white bass that for every walleye you hook, you catch 100 white bass," Sak said.
But this time of year, other seasons; trout, bluegills, bass, salmon and other species are beginning to bite.
A great way to gain both experience and confidence for fishing the river is to get out and practice. Launch in one of the many inland lakes then tool around with the trolling motor to get the feel of using it and concentrating on your electronics.
Granted, you won't be dealing with a fast current, but at least you'll get some time in the operation mode.
Ask someone who fishes the river regularly to go with you in your boat, allowing you to be the operator.
That way, you'll get on-the-spot corrections and advice while learning at the same time. The Detroit or St. Clair River systems are no place to be for beginners.
Dealing with boat and freighter traffic, waves and wind are just some of the problems. You must be on constant watch for debris; large logs, barrels, stumps and about anything else you can imagine, floating down bound.
Get your boat inspected courtesy of the Oakland County Sportfishing Club on May 20 at Oakland County Sportmens Club, correct any issues then get your boat in the water!
Nick DeShano of Offshore Tackle, holding a huge crappie. Contributed photo

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

New nests being built-birds singing

Just above my garage door light hangs a weedy next connected to the top of the light and the expensive vinyl siding we installed a few years ago.
Long tendrils of weeds, cloth and whatever else Mrs. Robin could carry in her beek to build the next hang down several inches below the next proper.
Soon, the inside of the nest will be lined to accept several powder or soft blue eggs. Mother robin will sit on the nest, devoting her time to keeping those eggs warm and warding off any intruders.
I usually sneak up to have a look when I know she is off and in search of feed. I never touch anything and get out of the area quickly.
But we have discovered a problem with one robin and one sparrow. Pecking at our windows. We had them tinted a couple of years ago to cut down on the damage the sun does when it moves to that side of the house.
This side, the west side, receives sunlight for several hours each day. The affect is finish fading on furniture and drapes and curtains becoming brittle.
These two birds peck all day and well into the evening. Even the rain doesn't slow them down. Experts say it's the tint that gives off a reflection making the birds think there is an intruder nearby.
I hate to take the tint off but don't know of another solution.
But back to the birds in the next. The DNR reminds us to leave young wildlife where you find it. Bird parents are aware when young fall from a next and have the ability to get them back.
When the scent of humans is transferred to any living wildlife chances are it will be abandoned. Fawns are a great example.
I've actually stumbled across them while traipsing through the woods. I come upon them all of a sudden.
Those white spots help make them blend in to most any background. Mom usually leaves them during the day to feed but is close enough to hear them cry if they are inn danger.
Deer especially are sensitive to scent and may abandon young offspring if you get too close. The best scenario is to back off and take a long way around that fawn.Don't worry, his mom will return to care for him.