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Commentaries and Sound Offs
from Kansas Anglers

 Practice Catch & Release

This Page is in response to a number of our visitors that expressed the desire to keep the fishing reports page limited to fishing reports. This page is for postings from Kansas Anglers that don't fall into the classification of a fishing report.
The views expressed on this page are the views of the person submitting and not of Kansas Angler Online. This page is meant to serve as a "Public Forum" so people's opinions may be heard. We ask that you to not make personal attacks. Debate topics, not people please.

Fishing Reports from Kansas Anglers

Send in your comments, questions or answers

December 6, 2006 - KDWP site discussion - I just explored KDWP site and thought it would be nice to bring this up since when there was a discussion about the fishing reports and there was one part that wasn't explored and it was a comment from KDWP themselves. Well here it is. http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/news/fishing/anglers_invited_to_contribute_online_fishing_reports

250 lakes is a lot of lakes to have to update every week. Read it and really give it a thought. And I have even seen people report on the same day at the same lake and one caught nothing and the other did pretty good.

Still getting some decent days to do some cold water fishing if anyone gets the chance.

Dominic

November 6, 2006 - Free Snake Booklet - The Great Plains Nature Center now has a free booklet titled "A Pocket Guide to Kansas Snakes". I'm sure that I'm not the only angler who has encountered snakes while fishing and would like to know better whether they are venemous or not. I'm not always ready to give up my fishing spot to a reptile. The guide is also available for viewing online with large color photographs: http://www.gpnc.org/snakes.htm

Dean B.

October 18, 2006 - Glen Elder Response - In regards to all the reteric about current fishing reports, it's allways been my expeience that by the time you read about a hot bite on any body of water, it's usually to late to get in on any of the action. Therefore I try to pay closer attention to the current trends for a particular body of water to use only as a starting point when I'm actually going to fish it. Take into account all the variables that dictate the location and mood of the fish you're after. Has the weather, water conditions, or baitfish loation changed ? Adjust your strategy accourdingly. After all, most reports come from anglers who have spent enough time on the water to figure out what the best pattern is. Not by someone who read about how someone else caught fish. Reports are a good tool to get us started but adjusting your stradegy and achieving success is what makes us all better anglers ! Don't be afraid to experiment or vary from the normal aproach, I catch most of my fish by giving them a look at something different than what everyone else is giving them.

Tight Lines,
Ks. Fisher

October 16, 2006 - Glen Elder Response - I guess I will put my input in. I have fished a same body of water in two days and one day the fishing action would not stop and then the next day I couldn't even catch a bluegill. The only thing I have to say is when you control numerous counties just think of it as a regional manager. They can visit the store in say butler one day and everything is going perfect. Maybe the day the KDWP was there the fishing was on. I have talked to two officers and they seemed rather on the money with what they say. One officer I confirmed his report with other anglers.

I don't have the chance to plan a big trip any where either so yeah it's just a risk, but the other thing is you fish a body of water enough you can catch fish no matter what the scenario is. Otherwise the fishing guides won't be doing too well if they can't find the fish.

My philosophy on fishing is this. You want to catch fish with the most ease... go to farm ponds... That area has tons of ponds in the Fishing atlas up for grabs and I would love to get in that area to fish them. The farm pond I have been going to for 20 years can always give me a bass or two to dozens if you fish it long enough.

When I don't land a single fish I still make my day worthwhile. What else would I be doing? Sitting at home... on the computer or watching a movie. But I just enjoyed a full day outdoors floating in the cool air or wading. Just getting away from city life. That alone is a worthwhile trip.
I have checked other states for reports and some of their wildlife and parks sites don't even have reports posted and usually have to go to landbigfish or other sites to find them.

I do agree though it would be nice to know how often they visit a body of water. I know when it says last updated it just means thats when they typed the reports not when they got the report.

Well enough from me... I think tomorrow I will go do some shore fishing in my waders.

Dominic

October 14, 2006 - Glen Elder Response - I couldn't agree with you more Jordan. I do believe it's more than sitting back looking for reports then trying to plan your fishing trip around them. I simply put this on there to let fellow fishermen know to be cautious about reading such reports. I was already out there fishing and I made my rounds to the bait store, local fishermen and the KDWP before I went out into the water. Not one of these places had a clue about the fishing (the main theme was they were slow and they thought it had to do with the water being down.) This didn't stop us from going fishing and we did manage to catch a few whites when we spotted sea gulls diving at shad. I would rather KDWP just not update their lake location rather than post something that was way off.

Unlike you Jordan, some of us don't have all the time in the world to go fishing and when we have that small window of opportunity, I try to hit the lake where I think we can do the most damage. If in fact KDWP was doing their job, don't you think they would offer the same information they posted on the web site, when I asked them about the fishing in person? Again, I wasn't complaining about the fishing, because we did in fact catch a few whites but to actually see the report displayed on the website was disheartening especially after visiting with all the locals and KDWP themselves.

Good luck fishing,

Jeff

October 11, 2006 - Glen Elder Response - 10-11-06- You cant just look at this webpage, go out to a place like Glen Elder or anywhere else for that matter, and expect to catch fish just because Joe Shmoe said he caught a catfish on a hotdog...my point is that's not fishing. Guys need to get out there and learn some things.And just because you weren't catchin fish doesn't mean this report isn't kept up, or KDWP isn't doin their thing, it's because you need to learn how to fish..............I think KDWP offers a fishing clinic for people like that.....thanks to anglers like you MY belly's been full of fish all year!........Jordan Beard

September 29, 2006 - Glen Elder Response - I also agree with a few of you who are disgusted with the "fish reporting" in Kansas! Clinton Lake, in Lawrence was giving excellent reports on catfish, at the feeders! We rushed down there for 3 days ­ and caught nothing! It is very frustrating ­ to think we can trust what these reports say! With the price of gas, the price of fishing license, parking, camping fees, taxes on boats and campers ­ in Kansas ­ you would think we could at least get a good fishing report, up to date and accurate! For years, we drove to Missouri to fish. We caught more, because the reports were accurate! We decided to try Kansas this year, due to the price of gas ­ but it's the same ol' tired stories that aren't true! It's to bad. I think KDWP needs to do more to make it accurate! Kren

September 24, 2006 - Looking for ponds with snapping turtles - I know this is a little off for a fishing report but, I would like to know of some ponds that have been taken over by any kinds of turtles.....snappers are what I'm after, and I'm tryin to help out any local ponds I can...I know how most anglers feel about turtles eating their trophy fish's food, so posting your comment could definitly help out your chances for that angler award!......Thanks for all the reports over the summer...it really helps a guy out when he can look at the report and get somewhat of a head start...you'll be hearin from me.....................Jordan Beard

September 23, 2006 - Glen Elder Response - Concerning the posts about the KDWP fishing reports, I share your frustrations. I called them this spring and talked to the head of the fisheries division. I complained about the way the fishing reports are done. Some reports are the same information fora couple of months with only the dates changing. Others just give some general seasonal info, such as this time of year the crappie are usually here etc. A few lakes like Cedar Bluff, give a good report and update it regularly. The answer I got was that The biologists are supposed to send in a report at least once a week. He said some were better at it than others. He was very friendly and told me I might try calling some of the biologists directly. I have noticed that the reports have been the same as always. With the price of gas, it would be nice to have some good, timely info to plan your trips with.

Gary

September 22, 2006 - Glen Elder Response - Hey everyone, I kind of agree about the last comment posted. There are so many variables that play into it that I quit following the KDWP report a long time ago. A guy just has to get out and fish to know. The KDWP report reminds me of a guy I work with who brags about catching stringers of 20lb. catfish every weekend. For what I pay to camp, fish, and tax my boat in this state, it's a huge dissapointment. Missouri and Oklahoma offer so much more for a fraction of the price. I know KDWP does the best they can, it just seems like the system is broke. If anyone has been having luck at cheney, could you let us know. Eric

September 22, 2006 - Glen Elder - I just noticed the fishing report for Glen Elder that is posted on the KDWP web-site dated 9-20-06. Do not believe everything you read. The white bass story is so far off. I just spent 3 days on the lake and we caught a few small whites. Nobody in the area had a clue about the fishing conditions including KDWP themselves. When I asked questions about the fishing, they didn't think much was going on or they haven't heard any reports of anything. I talked to several locals and they too said not much going on because of the water conditions. I've requested the contact info that KDWP uses for Glen Elder, but I doubt they'll send it my way. I was going to Glen Elder anyways to take my Dad fishing but it's very frustrating to see this report come from KDWP, especially since none of them at their office at Glen Elder had nothing to say about the fishing.
 
Good luck fishing,
 
Jeff

September 19, 2006 - This is to add to the discussion regarding fee fishing opportunities in Kansas. I discovered that Hartley Fish Farms (www.hartleyfishfarmsinc.com) of Kingman offers a trout stream for lease. It is catch and release, holds up to 8 lb rainbows and 3 lb browns. The annual lease is around $1000. They no longer lease any of their warm water ponds, nor do they offer fee fishing services.

I am still interested in fee fishing opportunities where you pay for what you catch or pay a short-term lease if not a daily fee. For those around Topeka, you may want to try Lessman's. They offer fee fishing according to their entry in the Kansas Aquaculture Association directory (www.kansasaquaculture.org).

Dean

August 14, 2006 - Comment About Summer Striper Fishing Comment -
From the point of view of someone who gets to fish on a regular basis, I see where it'd be easy to say just close striper fishing in the summer. But what do you tell the folks whose only chance to striper fish is the once a year family summer vacation? It's important to get more families and kids involved in the outdoors and fishing if we want our sport to grow and improve, or be protected from those who would like to see it go away. Makes since to have more opportunities to fish, not fewer. Summer vacations when the kids are out of school is the only chance for some people. And what about the economic impact to marina owners, motels, etc-  might cut into their revenue quite a bit where it's already tough enough to scratch out a living. DH

August 9, 2006 - Summer Striper Fishing Comment - I would state my feelings on some wishing KDWP to close Striper fishing in the summer and still others wanting the same with spring Walleye, ( i don't fish during the spawn anyway) but won't on this site. I prefer this one on one. Mark.

August 9, 2006 - Summer Striper Fishing Comment - Greetings Fellow Striper Fisherman!
As a life long striped bass fisherman who loves the species I think there is a need to share my experience with others who are not as knowledgeable with the species. Once the water temperatures hit the mid-70's the survival rate of caught and released stripers decreases drastically. Studies have been done in many southern states including Lake Texoma which shows that as high as 50% of striped bass caught and released in summer months will die! ODWC encourages anglers to move off of schools of larger stripers 20 inches or larger once there 2 fish limit is reached. This and more info. is available at http://www.wildlifedepartment.com/research/Texomastripedbassmanagementresearch.pdf Here in the state of Kansas it is my experience that stripers in the 5 pounds and up class have a much higher than 50% mortality rate in the heat of the summer. Once those fish hit the 10 pound and up mark I doubt if 1 out of every 10 fish released ever survives. I have been out on days when the fishing was great with many stripers caught and released that day, only to return the next day to find many of those released floating on top! What a sad sight to see.

Personally I would like to see Wildlife and Parks close striper fishing during the hot months so I do not have to witness this fish kill. As a guide I will not guide during the heat of the summer unless my clients agree to catch there limit and quit fishing for stripers. With the tough economic times of late this has hurt my income but I refuse to kill stripers needlessly.

Sincerely, Jack Hoskinson
Madd Jack Striper Guide
President Kansas Striper Assoc.

July 20, 2006 - Request for fishing partner (non-boater) in BASS Jayhawk - Hi folks,
I'm from CO and looking for a non boater to link/register for bassmaster weekend series, Jayhawk division, Sep 10. Would also split lodging, travel, prefish etc...Can to pass this on to your clubs?
Thanks
Billy Armour
barmour5812@msn.com or billy.armour@lmco.com

cell (303)349-0774 - hm (303)750-5812

July 5, 2006 - Queston on Milford Blue Cat - I would like any info anyone might have about the blue cat bite at Milford. I am planning a trip for mid-July. Any info would help-where to go and depth, fishing style and bait type. Thanks for the help.

June 27, 2006 - Answer to Question on El Dorado - The submerged railroad bed is in the Walnut River arm (the west arm of the lake). It starts at the very northwest corner of the dam, very close to the boat ramp nearby, and runs along the NW shore, then gradually makes a turn to the NE. The depths of the tracks closer to the dam run 14'-16', about a mile north they get deeper 20'-22', then gradually get shallower the further northeast you go. Most people fish the north end of the tracks, but fish can be caught all along them. Fishing on them close to trees seems to produce more fish. Trolling hot-n-tots works well. Good luck.

Brian

June 23, 2006 - Question on El Dorado - I am pretty new at fishing El Dorado lake and was wondering if someone could point out where the Flooded Railroad tracks are located? I was going to take my father and nephew over there sometime, but wasn't quite sure of where they were exactly, or proximity they were located other then I am sure looking for all of the other boats. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks again,

Tyson Woolsoncroft

June 20, 2006 - Fishing Milford or Places close to Salina - Hey guys....I will be over in Salina on the 4th weekend. I will be taking my father in law out fishing in my boat. He is not much of a fisherman....He is excited to go but not much experience and I was wondering if anyone new of any places we could go where I could put him on some fish. We planned to go to Milford, but I dont know much about that lake. Any help on Milford or if anyone else has any other suggestions that would be great!

Thanks,

Chad Dick

cmdick@winningstreaksports.com

June 15, 2006 - Milford - This is my 1st time writing to Kansas Angler and want to let all of you know the reports are great. I have been living and fishing in Kansas since 1986. I have seen a couple of down years during this time, but nothing like the last couple of years at Milford. Have no problems catching walleyes, but, where has the quality gone. The pressure on this lake from tournaments, recreational boaters, perhaps mortality from new gill nets/handling spawners has taken its toll. I believe its time to take a real hard look at this fishery in particular and find a happy medium to bring walleye year classes back in balance. I did not mean to make this into a forum type question, but any insight would be greatly appreciated. Maybe all the pressure has changed the habits of the larger fish. Last trip out June 6 caught 22 walleye on the flats(jig and leech was the ticket) but not one fish measured. Fun day on the water but had to dip into the freezer for white bass fillets caught off dam mid in may. By the way, late summer/fall fishing for whites this year should be awesome judging by the size fish we caught off the dam this spring. Come out and give it a try. Bite is usually hot and heavy all the way through mid-october and not many folks on the lake. Well, thats all for now. Hope to read some replies soon and also hope to see some of you out enjoying the fall blitz. Thanks and Good Fishing,

EYECROSSER

June 14, 2006 - Looking for a boat - Hello everyone,

I am looking for a bass boat and was curious if anyone knows of a Tracker or a fiberglass boat for sale around $3,000 to $4,500. Don't have very much to spend but I am really interested in a good used boat in that price range. Please contact me at ttunnell@cox.net if someone knows or has one for sale. Thanks! -Moose

June 4, 2006 - Cheney Catfish Problem - There has been some recent conflicts concerning anglers at cheney taking to many of the big channels out. I personaly love fishing for the cats a cheney myself, but the fish that are over 8 pounds are with out a doubt, catch and release fish. the lake needs those fish in there. why do you think that there are so many new regulations there for the wipers and walleye. the channels need to be respected just as much as the other fish. keep the smaller ones but let the big ones go back. they help with the perch problem more than any other fish in there.

Walleye Back

May 18, 2006 - Free Fishing Days in Kansas and surrounding states - Below is an alphabetical list of free fishing dates by
state with sources. You might want to publish it on the commentaries by KS anglers page. Feel free to reformat/edit as you see fit.

Free Fishing Days Arkansas (including non-resident anglers):
Noon Friday, June 9 midnight Sunday, June 11
More Info

Free Fishing Days Iowa (resident anglers ONLY): June 2 4
More Info

Free Fishing Days Kansas (including non-resident anglers): June 3, 4
More Info

Free Fishing Days Missouri (non-residents anglers should check w/ MDC): June 10, 11
More Info

Free Fishing Days Nebraska (non-resident anglers should check w/ NGPC): Sat, May 20
More Info

Free Fishing Days Oklahoma (including non-resident anglers): June 3, 4
More Info

Free Fishing Days Texas (including non-resident anglers): Sat, June 3
More Info


Dean B.

May 15, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Discussion - Walleye Lover from up North made a lot of sense.  I want to thank him for his input since I introduced this discussion.  I would hazard a guess that the South Dakota Fish and Game people might be a little more knowledgeable than our boys in Kansas about the Walleye fishery.  I would like to see a 3 under 18, 2 over 18, and only one over 21 instituted on El Dorado.  That would still be a five fish creel limit and would do more to preserve the " Hawgs".  Incidentally, I have a funny little story to share. You will recall that I put forth my opinion that Walleye were not much of a fighter.  My buddy and I were fishing El Dorado Sat, when I heard some splashing on his side of the boat. Now normally when he sets the hook on a fish you can hear him quite a ways away.  I questioned him about this, and  he sheepishly admitted " I thought I was pulling in a limb until it rolled around by the boat."  "Wally"

May 10, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Discussion - As a recent transplant from South Dakota, I am impressed with the diversity of fishing opportunities that there are in this area of the county. I am particularly pleased that there are walleye fishing opportunities here in Kansas. I have been able to fish many fine waters that support walleye, perch, bass, crappie, catfish and pike. Some lakes were better suited for one species while others favored yet another. A few even had fishable populations of all of those species. I guess what I am trying to say is that the management plans in place in South Dakota are tailored to the needs of the body of water. The whole state recently went to a statewide "one over 21" rule for walleye that keeps harvest of the larger fish down. Lakes have creel limits ranging for 2 walleye to 10 walleye with various slot limits and minimum length limits enforced that are dependant to each specific water. It is not a simple case of "one size fits all" for fish management....no matter what species it is

As far as fish populations go, there are always more of the smaller ones than there are of the larger ones. That is just the way it is. why not focus limits to take advantage of the more numerous smaller fish of a species and save the less numerous brood stock/trophies for the future. and by the way......what is the benefit of closing the season during the spawn? No scientific evidence supports this theory that I know of. It is "People Pleasing" thing rather than a management thing. Besides what is the difference if I keep four 8 pound hawgs in March or August? They still will not be available to spawn the following year!!! Make any sense?

Walleye Lover from up North

May 5, 2006 - Wichita Chisholm North Lake Response -There are good people out here, but it's just easier to experience the bad ones. That's sad to hear about your rod. I too have had an experience, but mine was even worse. I was down at Lake Fork in Texas. My dad and I rented a boat and were about to launch when my dad needed to make a pit stop really quick. We drove to a station not too far away from the launch site. I had my three rods in a rod carrier that I had on the boat since we were about to launch. One rod had my lucky craft pointer lure on it as well. Well sure enough the small trip to the station my carrier bounced out of the boat and within minutes of turning around it was gone. We went to the little posts and asked if anyone turned it in. So I lost three rods/reels, a lucky craft lure, and the carrier and we were just about to start fishing. I ended up buying a rather cruddy baitcasting reel with some big game line that I really don't use. It was frustrating, but that's how life teaches us. Once we were on the lake it really didn't matter any more. It just wasn't worth staying upset over. My dad felt really bad and blamed himself, but I had to tell him everything was fine. It was material possessions. Heck buy a new car and drive it off the lot and you just lost a few thousand dollars you just spent. I have caught a trout at Philmont New Mexico with a stick and some fishing line and hook that I found on the ground so no biggy about loosing my fancy fishing stuff. Just know that if you stay being a good person that you will get your pay back with something nice.

Happy fishing all,

Dominic.

May 2, 2006 - Wichita Chisholm North Lake -Went fishing with my 3 year old son on Friday the 28th at "Wichita Chishom North Lake" for a hour or two, it was cloudy with the possibility of rain. But I had the "fishing itch" so we went to try to catch some Crappie. After about 20 min it started to rain (hard) and I was so worried about getting my son back to the car and into a new change of cloths I left my rod ($150) outside my car and left!!!!!! When I remembered (about 30 min) I came back and it was gone. Now I know this was my fault but gee wiz are there no honorable people out there????? If it was me I would left it or taken it to KDWP office across K-96. If the person who took it is reading this report I'm not calling you a thief but man that isn't not cool. Mark    

May 3, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Discussion - It was a broom handle and well rope. I'd rather catch hard fighting, challenging fish that require bait casting gear, heavy line, casting skills, and the ability to fight fish out of cover (and sometime the fish wins), than drag bait or troll for perch with a fairy wand and sewing thread.

May 2, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Discussion - The person that wrote in about the 8.5 lb walleye. This person apparently is not a walleye fisherman. and does not eat fish. walleye and crappie are best fish to eat.
I have been fishing for 37 years and caught allot of kinds of fish. Now most of the time I am fishing for walleye. This person must fish only for bass. HE NEEDS TO GO TO TEXAS TO FISH. HA HA

May 2, 2006 - Wichita Chisholm North Lake -Went fishing with my 3 year old son on Friday the 28th at "Wichita Chishom North Lake" for a hour or two, it was cloudy with the possibility of rain. But I had the "fishing itch" so we went to try to catch some Crappie. After about 20 min it started to rain (hard) and I was so worried about getting my son back to the car and into a new change of cloths I left my rod ($150) outside my car and left!!!!!! When I remembered (about 30 min) I came back and it was gone. Now I know this was my fault but gee wiz are there no honorable people out there????? If it was me I would left it or taken it to KDWP office across K-96. If the person who took it is reading this report I'm not calling you a thief but man that isn't not cool. Mark   

May 1, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Discussion - I have fished walleye now in this state for a dozen years now and I agree the 18inch limit must be changed somewhat based on what is happening to most of the bigger fish currently. You can catch 100 fish under 18 inches on almost any day in almost any of the lakes in the eastern part of the state. 6 years back prior to the massive gill net project the game and parks are doing you could catch 4 to 6 lb walleye every trip out. Now your lucky to get 1 or 2 a day. Limits should be changed to be able to keep at least 2 fish from 16-18 and maybe a few over 18 inches. Or ensure the games and parks do not continue to kill all the big fish after the milk them dry of all the egss that usually support the fish after spawning. I have documented proof of many dead large walleye after the gill net operations. I have to give the game and parks tremendous credit however for ensuring the success of the walleye populations. You cant find any better walleye fishing unless maybe you go to lake erie in late June

As far as the comment that walleye don't fight is probably because your using a pool cue for a rod and 15 lb test. Or you haven't caught many big walleye.

TK

May 1, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Discussion - I disagree with all of you that want to keep the small walleye. You guys are being selfish. Think of that 8.5 lb. fish that got caught on a spinner bait. What if that was your son, grandson, a kid's first time fishing or even that guys girlfriend that was out there spending time doing something they normally wouldn't be doing. That would have mad their day. Even if the fish doesn't fight that well for people that fish all the time. It will fight for someone that doesn't get all the opportunities that some of us are fortunate to get. Guys there are plenty of fish out there and don't get that big that is good eating. I am all for closing down the walleye season during the spawn, keep these fish in the Kansas waters for people within the state to catch and have fun. Have fun with catching a lot of fish rather than being greedy and just want to eat every fish that your catch.

Light Tackle

May 1, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Discussion - I accidentally caught a walleye that weighed nearly 8.5lbs the other day. It hit a spinner bait on an the outside of a weedline in about 4ft of water. It was like reeling in a wet sack. About as much sport as folding towels. And didn't taste that great either, kind of muddy. Crappie beat it tenfold. I wish KDWP would concentrate more (at least some) on black bass management. Central Kansas needs a destination bass fishery, and all of the reservoirs should at least be "decent" for bass. Kansas is losing a lot of revenue to surrounding states as bass clubs venture out for productive waters. ALso, a 10-in minimum on crappie would do wonders for crappie fishing. Black bass for sport, crappie for meat. Both reproduce naturally, without having to spend a bunch of time and money to ensure successful reproduction like for walleye. And one is more sporting, the other better to eat. I agree with "Wally" whole heartedly.

April 28, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Length Discussion - I've been following this discussion since it started and would like to throw in my two cents. Definately not intended to start a argument or offend anyone. One of the wonderful things about living in this country is that we are all offered free thought and to have our own opinion. That being said, the 21" length limit is a good thing. Drop that length or put a slot in and in a few years we'll all be asking where the fish went. Remember about five years ago when Cheney was 5 fish at 18"? We all caught fish like there was no tomorrow and look at us now. Walleye are sportfish. Ask the guys that go out to deep open water and pick the monsters off structure. As far as wipers go, look at the hugh mudline you have to trim out of those. Great fish to catch, but not much of an eater. I know some guys disagree, but I just think there's better tasting fish in the water. Why not release those fish to put a dent in the perch? Kind of like people complaining about no more stripers in the lake. Wrapping this up, why does KDWP allow fishing the dam during the spawn? Everyone knows what goes on there. It makes me want to puke to hear guys bragging around town about the big fish they snagged. I didn't write this to piss anyone off, so take it as my opinion. Good fishing, Eric

April 28, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Length Discussion - April, 28, 2006. Responds to Eldorado Walleye/Controversy. Cheney has a length limit of 21" on both Walleye/Wipers. I catch well over 100 of them combined between the two of them a year at that lake. Most over 21". I'd say through out the year 85 percent I throw back. Why, Wipers I don't like to eat. Walleye I love to eat. I'd rather eat at Long John Silvers or Red Lobster for my fish. One huge benefit fisherman have they can catch and release. I Deer hunt with my boys each year and get one or two a year but don't like the Deer meat. Hunting you don't have that benefit of catch and release. But I love to Deer hunt. So, I end up giving the Deer away each year. I just love to catch those big fish and enjoy the experiences each trip. KEEP THE LENGTH LIMIT AT CHENEY AT 21". It will provide HUGE fish for years to come.

April 28, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Length Discussion - I for one fully agree with "Wally" and would like to add my two cents worth. A few years ago I was so fed up with throwing back 171/2 inch walleye at Marion that I sat down and wrote a gripe letter to the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks. In response, I got a nice letter and a visit from their fisheries biologist for Marion. I cannot remember his name, but he proceeded to try to convince me that what they were doing would eventually pay off with more "keepers", not less. Well, its been several years and I'm still waiting. Amazingly, his argument was centered on walleyes needing to be about 18" long before they can reproduce. I pointed out that this then forced us to keep the only fish capable of replenishing our waters, but I guess that makes too much sense. Now they increased the length limit at Cheney to supposedly help control the white perch population. This makes a "keeper" walleye at Cheney extremely rare and is the main reason I won't fish there anymore.

Another thought is that whenever there is an overabundance of crappies, they become stunted. The state then wants us to keep as many as possible to thin them out. (Remember Howard city lake about 10 years ago) In closing, Wally, if you ever run for state commissioner of KDWP, you've got my vote.
Denny

April 27, 2006 - El Dorado Walleye Length Discussion - Fished El Dorado 04-26. Caught a mixed bag of Walleye, Wipers, and Drum. It was frustating, pertaining to the Walleye. 1- 17 3/4 inch, 2- 17 1/2 inch, 2 17 inch, 5- 16 inch, 5 between 12-15 inch, and 1- cigar. Now I am going to probably stir up some controversary. To me the Walleye is the most mis-managed fish in Kansas. Let;s face it. It is not much of a fighter. It is however the second best eating fish in Kansas, coming in behind the Crappie. However, the Walleye starts getting a mud-line, when it gets much over 16 inches. So if it is not much of a fighter, and is great table fare, why must they have to be 18 inches before you can keep them? It does not take much finess to catch them, much like a catfish, or a carp. So if you want a good fight, get back in the coves, out of the wind, and pretend you are fishing for Walleye, and catch some carp, that fight twice as much as a Walleye. What I am getting at is, the Walleye is a eating fish, not much of a sport fish. So why not put on a slot length limit, 5 fish between 14-17. Anything bigger must be released. That way, you would still preserve the big ones, for those that think the Walleye is such a great sport fish. I threw back more meat today that I could have got off of five Walleye, than I could hace got off of 30 10-12 inch Crappie. "Wally"

April 23, 2006 - Cheney/El Dorado - Sounds as if the wiper fishing is doing good at Cheney. El Dorado has been hit and miss. Pick up 6 at lookout point last week, kept 1 to grill. Keep in mind there is a posession limit on most species of 3 times daily limit so lets' pratice a little catch and release so this good fishing will continue into the future. MH

April 4, 2006 - Lowrance Question - I have a Lowrance LX-19 Color sonar. Two years old. Factory has a improvement add on to owners for the background light. This is to improve direct sunlight viewing. Has anyone had this addition done and if so is it worth the $100 Lowrance is changing for the upgrade? I believe now all new Lowrance color sonar's have this new feature. As it stands now in direct sunlight my visibility is very poor. At times unviewible.

March 20, 2006 - Answer to Florida Bass question - I've fished for Florida strain bass in Texas lakes most of my life, and have found that when the big girls are on the nests, down sizing to a small 4in lizard with an 1/8 oz. weight is hard to beat. Watermelon seed or watermelon with red flake is dynamite on east Texas lakes, especially Fork (cotton candy if the water is unusually clear). Pitch the lizard in there and just leave it. This takes an extreme amount of patience, but the subtle movements created by the water look most natural and will eventually drive them nuts. And remember, if you can see them they'll likely see you first. So if the fish are leaving the nest when you make your presentation, mark the spot, leave, and come back. Sneak up with a push pole and stay off the trolling motor. Stay far enough away not to spook the fish (tie up if necessary but don't use the trolling motor); then, make your presentation. If the water is stained to murky, and your casting for spawning bass instead of site fishing, a 6in lizard with gold flake in it can be good. Zoom's mossy pumpkin color will get you tore up on Fork. If you're not having any luck getting the bedding bass to bite, leave 'em alone. Move out to 8ft deep in the mouths of spawning coves or secondary points up the creeks. Tie on a Gene Larew Hawg Craw (the big one) in black w/ blue claws, fish the trees, and hold on to your rod. Shorter trees with some broken-off limbs (laydowns) or horizontal limbs just beneath the surface in 8ft of water are best. This pattern put a 13.86 in the boat for my partner one early spring. One last comment- please do not use shiners or other live bait for bass, especially for trophy bass in the spring, as fish mortality is higher with live bait rigs. Best of luck.

March 17, 2006 - Questions on LaCygne - Hey all, I will be making a trip down to LaCygne next week to do some fishing....Primarily Bass, but will go after Crappie or Whites as well. I have never been there, but everything I read says to stay near the Power Plant. Does anyone have any suggestions on location related to the power plant, or techniques that work well there? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, Chad chadku@hotmail.com

March 16, 2006 - Answer to Florida Bass question - My answer will stay simple since each body of water is different as well as each day and down to each hour fishing can be different, but there is one method of fishing that can offer up excellent bass fishing

The secret is to simply fish at night. You only need to try a few lures to make night fishing a success. One is the buzzbait, the next will be a single big cupped bladed spinnerbait, and then you can stick with a big black juicy worm. And night fishing can be done at the shore. Only thing is it will be dark, but fishing can be very successful. Bass move to the shallows to eat, there are very few if any other fisherman out on the water as well.

Just scope out a good spot that has plenty of weeds or other cover and fish there. If you don't get a fish in ten minutes then move on. But once you get a good spot you can catch fish after fish.

Good luck.

March 14, 2006 - Answer to Florida Bass question - If you are primarily sight fishing in clear water you need to be able to make repeated 100% accurate casts. When I sight fish i like to be able to cast to where the bass can't see the lure comming until it comes in front of the fishes face getting a reaction strike. you will have to experiment to know what to use whether it be crankbait, worm, jig. From my experience, i can usually find a jig that will work in any condition. you just have to modify weight and trailer size for balance and drop speed.

March 10, 2006 - Answer to Florida Bass question - try to use a big shiner on lite line and a bobber if you are in thick vegitation use fire line 15-25 lbs test also try plastics with a lot of salt jiging for them if they are agressive and not much vegitation try a rattlie trap

March 8, 2006 - Answer to Florida Bass question - what about water clarity? If it is very clear maybe they are getting to good of a look at your bait. if this is the case i would probably use a mostly clear bait and fish a little faster possibly getting more reaction strikes.

February 26, 2006 - Question from Florida on catching bass - Can you help my brothers and I catch bass? Heres the problem, we see a lot of bass here in central Florida, but they just wont bite our bait! They just sniff it and swim away, and our hands dont have anything like oil or anything that will repel the bass! Can you please help us by giving us some tips and telling us what tackle to use on bass? Thank You so much. Send us and answer and we will post it.

February 23, 2006 - Boat for Sale 1989 Champion Tournament Bass Fishing Boat, 150HP Mariner Engine, with trailer, 2 fish finders, trolling motor, 2 mounted seats and two swivel seats front and back, 3 batteries, two live wells, runs excellent! Don'tlet the year fool you, this boat is in great condition, was well maintained every year. $5,500 email me (Scott) at sshea@cox.net

February 22, 2006 - Looking for a boat - Hey everyone.  Does anyone know of a used Lowe or Tracker Aluminum Bass Boat that is for sale.  I dont have a huge budget so I am looking for something in the $4-5k range.....Anyone who knows of anything feel free to email me at chadku@hotmail.com
 
Thanks, Chad

January 19, 2006 - Kite Fishing Question - Hi, all - Not a report, but a question.
I've read about salt water fishing using a kite to hold a live bait right on the surface and tantalize fish into striking. Usually done from a boat, but I think this could work on our Kansas lakes from the shore as well. On the salt, it's used for lots of species that attack a struggling baitfish.

Anybody tried this? Could be effective when wipers, stripers, or whites are chasing schools of shad.

Russell Groves

January 17, 2006 - Looking for a small boat bass club - Does anyone know of any bass clubs that use small boats (2-man boats, Bass Raiders, Canoes, etc.) to compete in tournaments on local lakes? I would like to get involved in tournament fishing but have only an electric powered two man boat to use and would really like to get involved in a bass club. If anyone knows of any bass clubs that use small boats, please let me know.
 
Thanks! 
Moose

 

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