Lone Star Outdoor News 052424

Oldfashioned fun

Bluegill on beds at Fork

By Nate Skinner

For Lone Star outdoor newS

Danny Holder was targeting bass when his anglers started getting bites from bluegill on the Brush Hogs they were throwing. He knew that meant the bream were moving up on their beds, spawning. A few days later, he took longtime customer and friend, Chris Kelly, out with the intent of targeting bluegill, sunfish and perch — on purpose.

The fish did not disappoint. Holder and Kelly found the fish in large numbers over beds in 2-3 1/2 feet of water. They caught several just under a pound in size, and landed 75-100 bream in a few hours, while fishing in a single spot.

“The bluegill are loaded up on beds in the backs of pockets and

Desert bighorn numbers drop by half

By Mike Bodenchuk For Lone Star outdoor newS

Desert bighorn sheep in Texas are on the decline — by as much as 50 percent. But this time, the culprit is different, it’s a bacterium which weakens the immune system and makes the sheep susceptible to pneumonia.

Desert bighorns were eliminated from the state with the last observations of native sheep around 1960. Competition with livestock, disease and predation were the causes of the extirpation.

Through the efforts of West Texas landowners and the funding by hunters, along with the Texas Bighorn Society and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, bighorns were restored and reached a 2020 estimate of 1,500 desert sheep in 11 different herds, one of the state’s most recognized conservation achievements.

However, over the past three years, significant declines in desert bighorn numbers have been observed and officials say the reason is pneumonia caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma ovipneumonia, also known as MOVI among sheep biologists. MOVI weakens the immune system and makes them susceptible to other bacteria which cause the pneumonia. The pneumonia primarily affects lambs and adults that survive and can become chronic carriers, infecting subsequent generations of sheep.

MOVI can be found in a number of species including deer and cattle, but is most often associated with domestic sheep and goats. In Texas, MOVI has been documented in exotic aoudad and it’s the aoudad that pose the risk to desert sheep populations. In other states, declines in wild sheep populations due to MOVI have been documented for decades, and sheep biologists have been working on research, policy to provide adequate separation between domestic and wild sheep and management options for years. To date, no effective treatment has been found and, in many cases, removal of infected sheep or entire herds has been necessary.

The Texas declines began to appear in 2021, with the most recent counts indicating a 50-percent decline in overall numbers. Most telling is the decline

Personal best specks, back to back

By Nate Skinner For Lone Star outdoor newS

It’s not every day when an angler catches his personal best speckled trout. To top the feat on the next cast, though, is unheard of.

That’s what happened to Freddy Cisneros on a recent fishing trip near the mouth of

the Arroyo Colorado. Cisneros and his son, Freddy Jr., were fishing with his nephew, Capt. Aaron Cisneros, when the excitement took place. He and his son had recently returned to their home near Brownsville from working out of state, and they seized an opportunity to plan a family fishing trip.

“Freddy Jr. and I were wading in about waist-deep water over a hard, sandy bottom with scattered grass beds,” Cisneros explained. “I was throwing a top-water and he was chunking a soft plastic. We were catching a few fish here and there, but the action was not hot and heavy by any means.”

Texas’ Largest Hunting and Fishing Newspaper

Chris Kelly had a busy day catching bluegill on Lake Fork while fishing with his friend. Photo by Danny Holder.

Desert bighorn sheep populations have taken a nosedive, and officials say it’s because of a bacterium that causes pneumonia. Photo by David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoor News.

Freddy Cisneros caught and released his personal best trout on back-to-back casts while wade-fishing near the mouth of the Arroyo Colorado. Photo by Freddy Cisneros Jr.

FROM WORK TO PLAY

WHATEVER YOUR ADVENTURE IS, WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED.

By Craig Nyhus outdoor newS

Oklahoma hunting fees skyrocket for Texans

longtime family lease in his native state, just 2 1/2 hours away from Frisco.

ers about license plates from out-of-state trucks dotting the hunting landscape.

Mike Wilson is an Oklahoma native who has hunted on a family lease since he was 12 years old. Now living in Frisco with two sons, he said new nonresident fee increases have him reconsidering whether he will continue returning to the

Other Texans, especially from the northern part of the state, have taken advantage of lower hunting lease rates in the state across the Red River.

The Oklahoma legislature took notice, likely in response to complaints by local hunt-

The legislature created what was penned the Wildlife License Modernization Act, sponsored by state Sen. David Bullard, of Durant, and Rep. Ty Burns, of Watchorn.

“After more than 20 years, we have finally simplified our

hunting and fishing licenses, and given residents more for their money,” Bullard said. “We also were able to get out-of-state licenses up to the regional average. This is a big step forward for Oklahoma outdoorsmen, especially residents.”

The bill, which was signed by Gov. Kevin Stitt and takes effect July 1, was touted as combining

Big crowds at NRA meetings

By David J Sams one Star outdoor newS

While thunderstorms delayed some exhibitors heading to the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center to attend the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, it didn’t deter the crowd by the time the show opened May 17.

One woman’s flight was delayed and later canceled, but as a vendor, she was determined to get to the show. She rented a car and drove 13 hours to get to Dallas. On the way, her vehicle hit a deer, tearing the bumper off. Her daughter helped pull the deer away and they continued their trip.

The show, which used about 90 percent of the convention center, saw heavy and steady crowds. Visitors ranged from countless people wearing T-shirts, overalls or MAGA caps to the suits, ties, dresses and jewelry worn by those who attended the fancy evening galas, and then the characters claiming to be influencers.

Former President Donald J. Trump and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott headlined the speakers at the NRA Leadership Forum the night of May 18. The Trump speech had as many people as could fit in the hall, with many standing wherever there was room. Trump began by telling staff to turn the teleprompter off, then commencing to telling stories to the audience for 1 1/2 hours.

“They want to take away your rights,” Trump told the crowd. “Well, I know that better than anybody. They want to take away my rights better than anybody.”

On the show floor, the crowds stretched the halls, visiting booths from the 3,000 square-foot gun manufacturers to the 10-foot booths with specialty products.

One husband and wife were pushing a stroller as

Looking on the bright side

Changing weather can help quail numbers

Lone Star outdoor newS

Altering weather patterns could bring about unforeseen advantages for quail populations, and may serve as a positive catalyst for the resurgence of quail populations, according to Rolling Plains Quail Research Foundation Executive Director Ryan O’Shaughnessy.

Changes in temperatures and precipitation patterns can make previously unsuitable habitats conducive to quail survival, he wrote in a recent report.

“Warmer temperatures could extend the range of quail habitats farther northward, providing new territories

for colonization. Moreover, alterations in precipitation regimes might create favorable conditions for vegetation growth, offering ample cover and food sources for quail.”

Positive fluctuations in weather patterns also increase breeding, through earlier breeding seasons, allowing them to capitalize on optimal conditions for nesting and rearing offspring.

“Furthermore, a longer growing season resulting from warmer temperatures can enhance the availability of insects and seeds, crucial components of quail diets during breeding periods,” O’Shaughnessy said.

While excessive droughts pose significant challenges, intermittent periods of heavy precipitation can stimulate vegetation growth, leading to the prolifera-

tion of grasses, forbs and shrubs favored by quail. Changing weather patterns also can disrupt the foraging behavior of predators, potentially alleviating pressures on quail.

O’Shaughnessy said recognizing the potential benefits of changing weather patterns for quail populations underscores the importance of collaborative conservation efforts, and stakeholders can implement adaptive management strategies aimed at enhancing habitat resilience and fostering quail-friendly landscapes.

“By embracing the complexities of climate dynamics and adopting proactive conservation measures, we can strive to safeguard quail and their ecosystems for future generations to enjoy,” he said.

Mike Wilson, an Oklahoma native, hunts with his sons on a family lease a few hours north of his Frisco home. Increased nonresident fees have him wondering if he’ll continue. Photo from Mike Wilson.

Gun enthusiasts steadily moved through the halls at the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Dallas. Photo by David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoor News.

After drought, improved weather patterns can spur a resurgence in quail, including expanding the birds’ range. Photo from Rolling Plains Quail Research Foundation.

Costs of fighting wildfires

Over the last decade, wildfire suppression has cost the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service and the Department of the Interior an average of more than $3 billion per year.

The Forest Service said the numbers are expected to increase in the future after analyzing 10 future climate scenarios.

According to the analysis, a central estimate across the 10 future scenarios shows that lands in the National Forest System would experience a near doubling of the area burned by mid-century, increasing suppression costs by an estimated 42 percent.

Understanding and reducing wildfire risk is a key focus of land management strategies, the Forest Service said. One of the most effective tools for this strategy — prescribed fire — also is essential to the health of many forest ecosystems.

MT7 Ranch receives Leopold Conservation Award

Mike and Mary Terry, owners of the MT7 Ranch near Breckenridge, are this year’s recipients of the state’s highest honor for private land conservation, the Leopold Conservation Award.

“The MT7 Ranch and its owners, Mary and Mike Terry, exemplify everything we look for when selecting a winner for this prestigious award,” said Kevin Mote, Private Lands and Public Hunting Director for Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. “The Terrys and ranch staff are not only dedicated to being great land stewards inside the MT7 fences but have been excellent ambassadors for wildlife habitat conservation to other landowners, as well as great partners to TPWD over the years. Their willingness to implement new management practices, learn from their successes and failures, and share that knowledge with other like-minded conservationists are all qualities we are proud to recognize and honor.”

Longtime ranch manager Ty Bartoskewitz oversees MT7 Ranch’s approach to land stewardship, employing a variety of habitat, grazing, crop, water retention and wildlife population management practices.

Perhaps most notable has been the creation and maintenance of 55 quail management areas scattered across the ranch. They range in size from 10 to 100 acres and are situated within riparian corridors and ridges where mesquite and other shrubs could not be easily cleared in the past. Each area provides quail with cover and food sources of seeds and insects from a patchwork of disked strips planted annually with a mix of grains and forbs that mature at different times of the year.

The Terrys also use their ranch as an outdoor classroom for other ranchers, local school and civic groups, state and federal conservation agencies and nonprofits, and graduate students conducting research.

The Terrys will be presented with a crystal trophy, a gate sign and a $10,000 cash award provided by the Sand County Foundation at the Lone Star Steward Awards banquet later this month.

—Sand County Foundation

Desert bighorns and disease

Continued from page 1

in lamb survival, slipping from an average of 43 percent pre-2020 to an average of 25 percent since 2021.

“In Texas, it’s an aoudad problem,” said John Silovsky, TPWD’s wildlife division director. TPWD said it has undergone efforts to keep aoudad away from bighorns in critical breeding populations like the Elephant Mountain WMA, but on a large scale, such as the Sierra Diablo Mountains, it’s very difficult. A single aoudad intermingling with a herd of ewes and lambs can infect the herd.

Managing the risk and dealing with outbreaks is a huge task and entire working groups are addressing it across western North America. Research is ongoing and developing selective management methods is being tested in numerous sheep herds across the U.S. and Canada.

In Texas, TPWD is working to protect existing populations and has initiated an effort to establish a new population in Franklin Mountain State Park outside of El Paso — and also outside of the existing range of aoudad.

Eliminating the expanding aoudad population isn’t a practical solution at this point in time, but ways to prevent bighorn deaths due to MOVI are needed. In the interim, sheep researchers and landowners will be fighting to keep the wild sheep conservation story alive in Texas.

—U.S. Forest Service

Prescribed fire can be one of the most effective ways to avoid costly wildfires. Photo from Tall Timbers.

Declines in desert bighorn lamb survival has dropped from 43 percent to 25 percent since 2021. Photo by David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoor News.

Guns and more guns

Continued from page 4

they walked the floor. The husband was overheard arguing with his wife about how the baby needed a 9mm Gatling gun. His wife kept shaking her head, saying “No, no, no.”

One vendor said they had issues with foreign visitors who were slyly trying to photograph their thermal products, ostensibly to gain information.

Awards

At the convention, recipients of the Golden Bullseye Awards were presented, including two special awards.

The Golden Bullseye Pioneer Award recognizes person(s) responsible for the development and introduction of shooting equipment that has made a profound, positive and enduring impact on the way Americans shoot and hunt.

Selected for the 2024 Pioneer Award was Brandon Maddox, the founder and chief executive officer of Silencer Central, and honored for opening up the world of silencers to the masses.

The A1F Freedom Award for a standout defender of Second Amendment freedom in business, politics and/or American culture, was presented to Larry and Brenda Pottterfield, founders and owners of MidwayUSA.

Other award winners:

NRA Women Golden Bullseye

Handgun of the Year Ruger Security-380 LiteRack

Accessory of the Year The Headrest Safe Industry Woman of the Year Karen Butler, Shoot Like a Girl

Shooting Illustrated Golden Bullseye

Handgun of the Year Springfield Armory Echelon Rifle of the Year S&W FPC

Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol

Shotgun of the Year

Optic of the Year Holosun SCRS

Ammunition of the Year Speer Gold-Dot for PCCs

Accessory of the Year Magpul DAKA Grid

Suppressor of the Year Silencer Central Banish Speed K

American Rifleman Golden Bullseye Rifle of the Year Springfield Model 2020 Rimfire

Shotgun of the Year CZ 712 G3

Handgun of the Year EAA MC P35 Ops

Optic of the Year Trijicon RCR

Ammunition of the Year Federal Force X2 Shorty

Tactical Product of the Year Trailblazer Firearms Pivot

Accessory of the Year MDT 3-Round AICS Magazine

American Hunter Golden Bullseye Rifle of the Year Marlin 336

Shotgun of the Year TriStar Lever Action .410

Ammo of the Year Remington 360 Buckhammer

Optic of the Year Burris Veracity PH

Gear of the Year Hornady Security Mobilis

Board elections

After the conclusion of the show, on May 20, the NRA Board of Directors meeting took place. Bob Barr was elected president, Bill Bachenberger was elected first vice president, Mark Vaughn second vice president, and Doug Hamlin executive vice president.

Photo by Lone Star Outdoor News

By Nate Skinner For Lone Star o

FISHING

White bass consistent, hybrids mixed in

Schools of white bass, as well as hybrids, have been providing anglers with consistent action on many lakes. The fish have been found schooling along the surface, as well as over deeper structure in a variety of water depths. Artificial presentations and live bait have both been producing plenty of hookups.

bass bite has been incredible. The sandies have been schooling out in open water under birds early in the mornings, and then concentrating around deep structure later in the day.

“During the first couple of hours of the day, the schooling action taking place along the surface in open water has been pretty random,” Taylor said. “The fish are chasing schools of shad along large flats adjacent to

Texan tops national Fish Art Contest

By Meghan Sharber

For Lone Star outdoor newS

A Pasadena Independent School District student has gained attention after winning Best of Show at the national Fish Art Contest.

Mia Macias’ painting of a black crappie won the state competition in the grades 10-12 category, and later was selected as the Best in Show winner on the national stage.

“It was during my early teenage years that I observed my sis-

ter’s passion for drawing,” Macias said. “But I found joy at the time participating in track and crosscountry. My dream was to become an Olympic athlete.”

Macias described how talented her sister was and how she encouraged her to just give art a try. Her talent was instantly evident, but it was not until her freshman year of high school she entered her first art course.

“I never seriously considered pursuing art until I met my teacher, Mr. Alvarez,” Macias said.

down, Taylor has been finding large schools of white bass in 10-30 feet of water over humps, points and ledges with hard bottoms.

“The fish have been following the bait,” Taylor said. “Wherever the largest concentrations of shad are is where the biggest schools of white bass are going to be.”

When the fish have been up top under the birds, Taylor’s anglers have been catching

them on crankbaits and soft plastics. Out deep, jigging spoons have been working the best.

Richland Chambers Reservoir guide Michael Houston said his anglers have been catching plenty of white bass and hybrid striper. The hybrid striper bite has been great, with limits coming quickly. Houston has been having to work a little harder to put numbers of white bass in the boat.

“The hybrid action is as good as it gets right now on the lower end of Richland

Big turnout for Shallow Sport tourney

By Tony Vindell For Lone Star outdoor n

The 24th annual Shallow Sport Owners fishing tournament was a big success and organizers said an abundance of game fish was brought in by anglers.

Favorable weather conditions helped produce a better-thanexpected turnout, with a total of 239 teams and 1,300 people par ticipating in the event held May 10-11.

In 2023, a tornado swept through the nearby community of Laguna Heights, killing one person and destroying dozens of homes. Lightning and dark clouds prevailed the morning of the tournament, making some anglers nervous.

This year, however, things were different and almost every par ticipant caught a fish.

“We had tons of anglers par ticipate in our live catch and re lease,” said Kelly Groce, spokes woman for Shallow Sport. “We had an overwhelming amount of anglers participating in conservation this year.”

In the redfish division, the 162 anglers that were registered

After winning the state competition, high school senior Mia Macias won Best in Show at the national Fish Art Contest for her painting titled “Black Crappie.” Photo from Mia Macias.

Team XD Outdoor won Grand Champion in the Amateur Division at the South Padre Island event. Photo by Kelly Groce.

Anglers have been finding schools of white bass and hybrid striped bass with a few black bass mixed in. Photo by David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoor News.

Pilot Point team wins HS bass event

Aiden Hamblin and Austin Brown, seniors repre senting the Pilot Point Bearcats Bass Team, gathered a five-bass limit of 18 pounds, 2 ounces to win the Bassmaster High School Series at Sam Rayburn Res ervoir.

The team edged Ridge Mabile and Evan Aucoin, of Napoleonville, Louisiana’s Assumption Mustangs Bass Club, by more than 2 pounds.

Earning the $2,214 team prize, Hamblin and Brown claimed a spot in the Series scheduled for Ten nessee’s Chickamauga Lake, Aug. 1-3.

Hamblin and Brown stayed on the lake’s west side and fished coves in Caney Creek. They rotated through three main spots and targeted flooded bushes, trees and stumps.

Gulf shrimp season closed

Commercial shrimping season closed May 15, and applies to Gulf waters from the coastline out to 9 nautical miles. Federal waters also are closed to shrimping to conform to the Texas closure.

The shrimp fishery is closed annually to allow brown shrimp to reach larger and more valuable size prior to harvest.

“We fished another event on Rayburn in March and it was 6 feet low at that time,” Hamblin said. “We finished fifth in that event and we figured out what was going to be under water (when the lake rose), so that helped us.”

The team fished a Texas-rigged black/blue Strike King Rage Menace, wacky-rigged 5- and 6-inch Yum Dingers (black/blue and junebug, respectively) and a Spro Bronzeye Popping Frog.

“The bluegill the bass were feeding on had bright (chartreuse) tips on their tails, so that frog imitated them really well — it stood out on top of the water,” Brown said.

The team’s two largest bass came off the same tree, although a few hours apart.

“I cast the same frog and the strike was identical to our first big fish,” Brown said. “That tree won it for us, for sure.”

Boat crash ejects, injures two

Texas game wardens are investigating an accident in which a boat ran aground and crashed into a large dirt pile at Lake Sam Rayburn, ejecting the two people aboard, seriously injuring one man and causing minor injuries to a second.

The incident occurred about 3 p.m. May 17. According to Lake Rayburn Fire Chief Brett Holloway, the boat went aground between the east end of the dam and the Umphrey Family Pavilion. According to Chief Holloway, the boat operator lost control of the boat due to apparent mechanical issues.

An older man sustained a broken femur just above the knee and he was flown by a medical helicopter, while a younger man had minor injuries and he was taken by ambulance to a hospital.

—Staff report

“The goal of this closure is twofold,” said Robin Riechers, TPWD’s Coastal Fisheries Division director. The closure is to allow shrimp to migrate into Gulf waters and to give them time to mature and grow before commercial fishermen begin the summer season in July.

Red snapper to open June 1

The private recreational angler red snapper season in federal waters opens June 1. Red snapper fishing is open year-round in Texas state waters.

Regulations for red snapper in federal waters consist of:

• Two fish per person per day with a 16inch minimum size limit

• Red snapper caught in federal waters counts as part of the state bag limit of four fish

• No more than two red snapper can be in possession while in federal waters

Regulations for red snapper in state waters:

• Four fish per person per day with a 15-inch minimum size limit

• No more than four red snapper can be in possession in state waters while fishing

“As always, our goal is to give Texas anglers as many days as possible fishing in federal water for red snapper while still maintaining our traditional yearlong fishery in Texas state waters,” said Robin Riechers, Coastal Fisheries Division Director.

Per the 2022 DESCEND Act, all commercial and recreational anglers must possess a venting tool or a rigged descending device on their boat while fishing for reef fish in federal waters.

Photo by Lone Star Outdoor News

Photo by B.A.S.S.

TEXAS FRESHWATER FISHING REPORT

ALAN HENRY: Water clear; 70 degrees; 4.15’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics. Crappie are good on jigs and minnows.

AMISTAD: Water stained; 81 degrees; 66.18’ low. Largemouth bass are good on Texas-rigged senkos, Ned rigs, and shaky heads. White bass are good on small swim jigs, underspins, blades and spoons. Striped bass are fair on live bait.

ARLINGTON: Water stained; 75 degrees; 0.44’ high. Catfish are fair on shad.

ARROWHEAD: Water lightly stained; 74 degrees; 5.69’ low. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs. Catfish are fair on shad and punch bait.

ATHENS: Water lightly stained; 78 degrees; 0.66’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on jigs and shaky-head worms. Crappie are good on jigs and minnows.

AUSTIN: Water stained; 73 degrees; 0.63’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on swimbaits, wacky rigs and shaky heads.

B A STEINHAGEN: Water stained; 70 degrees; 0.04’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on Texas-rigged worms and crankbaits. Catfish are good on cut bait and prepared baits.

BASTROP: Water stained; 78 degrees. Largemouth bass are good on flukes, crankbaits, top-waters and swimbaits.

BELTON: Water lightly stained; 74 degrees; 11.35’ high. White bass are good on slabs. Hybrids are good on slabs and swim baits. Catfish are good on fresh shad.

BENBROOK: Water stained; 64 degrees; 4.93’ high. Largemouth bass are slow. Catfish are slow.

BOB SANDLIN: Water lightly stained; 64 degrees; 0.49’ high. Largemouth bass are good on Texas-rigged worms, crankbaits and chatter baits. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on worms and cut bait.

BRAUNIG: Water stained; 79 degrees. Largemouth bass are fair on plastic worms. Redfish are slow. Catfish are fair on cheese bait and liver.

BROWNWOOD: Water stained; 75 degrees; 4.52’ low. Largemouth bass are good on chatter baits, shaky heads and crankbaits. Crappie are good on jigs. White bass are good on crankbaits and small swimbaits. Catfish are fair on cut or prepared bait.

BUCHANAN: Water lightly stained; 80 degrees; 14.71’ low. Striped bass are good on live shad and top-waters.

White bass are good on live bait, jigging spoons and topwaters.

CADDO: Water stained; 61 degrees; 1.68’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on senkos, top-waters and flukes.

CALAVERAS: Water lightly stained, 80 degrees. Redfish are good on crawfish, shrimp, soft plastics and spoons. Catfish are fair on cheese bait and cut bait.

CANYON: Water stained; 80 degrees; 22.67’ low. Largemouth bass are good on chatter baits and drop shots.

CEDAR CREEK: Water lightly stained; 76 degrees; 0.12’ high. White bass are good on slabs. Hybrids are good on spinner baits, slabs and jigging spoons. Catfish are fair on cut shad.

CHOKE CANYON: Water stained; 82 degrees; 28.89’ low. Largemouth bass are good on shad-colored moving baits, Texas rigs and Carolina rigs. Crappie are good on minnows and grubs. Catfish are good on cut bait and stink bait.

CONROE: Water stained; 77 degrees; 0.24’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits, jerkbaits and worms. Hybrids are good on slabs, swimbaits and minnows. Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. Catfish are good on shad.

COOPER: Water stained; 68 degrees: 1.00’ low. White bass are good on slabs. Catfish are good on shad.

CORPUS CHRISTI: Water stained; 70 degrees; 9.54’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. Drum are good on nightcrawlers. Crappie are slow. Catfish are good on nightcrawlers and cheese bait.

EAGLE MOUNTAIN: Water stained; 72 degrees; 0.41’ low. White bass are good on slabs and minnows. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on punch bait and shad.

FALCON: Water stained; 75 degrees; 46.78’ low. Largemouth bass are good on crankbaits, football jigs and drop shots. Crappie are slow. Catfish are good on fresh cut bait.

senkos. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on prepared bait.

GRANBURY: Water clear; 74 degrees; 0.29’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits and soft plastics. White bass are good on slabs and spinner baits. Striped bass are good on live shad and trolled umbrella rigs.

GRANGER: Water lightly stained; 65 degrees; 5.43’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on spinner baits. Crappie are good on jigs. White bass are fair on slab spoons. Catfish are good on cut bait.

GRAPEVINE: Water clear; 62 degrees; 9.62’ high. White bass are good on slabs. Catfish are fair on cut bait.

GREENBELT: Water stained; 65 degrees; 46.06’ low. Largemouth bass are good on soft plastics. Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. Sand bass are good on slabs. Walleye are slow.

HOUSTON COUNTY: Water clear; 67 degrees; 2.90’ high. Largemouth bass are good on frogs, wacky worms and weightless Texas rigs. Crappie are good on minnows. White bass are fair on beetle spins and super spoons.

HUBBARD CREEK: Water stained; 67 degrees; 12.08’ low. Crappie are slow.

JACKSONVILLE: Water stained; 78 degrees; 0.43’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits, soft plastics and Carolina rigs.

JOE POOL: Water lightly stained; 65 degrees; 5.65’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs.

LAKE O’ THE PINES: Water stained; 71 degrees; 4.41’ high. Largemouth bass are good on creature baits. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on cut bait and worms.

FAYETTE: Water stained; 75 degrees. Largemouth bass are fair on spinner baits and crankbaits. Catfish are fair on stink bait.

FORK: Water stained; 70 degrees; 0.51’ high. Largemouth bass are good on top-waters, flukes and

LAVON: Water lightly stained; 5.50’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on spinner baits. White bass are good on paddle tail swimbaits, slabs and top-waters. Crappie are slow. Catfish are fair on punch bait, chicken, liver and shad.

LBJ: Water stained; 75 degrees; 0.43’ low. Crappie are fair on jigs. Catfish are good on punch bait.

LEWISVILLE: Water stained; 74 degrees; 3.84’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits, spinner baits and soft plastics. White bass are fair on slabs, jigs and live bait. Hybrid stripers are fair on slabs and jigs. Catfish

are good on shad.

LIMESTONE: Water lightly stained; 76 degrees; 0.20’ high. Largemouth bass are good on crankbaits, spinner baits and soft plastics. Crappie are good on minnows. White bass are fair on beetle spins and super spoons.

LIVINGSTON: Water stained; 67 degrees; 0.80’ high. White bass are fair on jigs. Catfish are good on shad.

MARTIN CREEK: Water stained; 76 degrees; full pool. Largemouth bass are fair on frogs, swimbaits and redbug worms. Crappie are good on minnows. Catfish are good on live bait.

MEREDITH: Water stained; 64 degrees; 45.89’ low. Largemouth bass are good on minnows and artificials. White bass are good on jigs and swim baits. Walleye are good on minnows and grubs. Catfish are fair on crawlers, minnows, chicken liver and frozen shad.

MILLERS CREEK: Water stained; 70 degrees; 3.15’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. Crappie are fair on jigs. Hybrids and white bass are fair on trolling crankbaits.

crappie jigs. Catfish are good on cut carp and shad.

PALESTINE: Water lightly stained; 74 degrees; 0.86’ high. Largemouth bass are good on frogs and soft jerkbaits. Crappie are fair on jigs. Catfish are fair on cut bait.

POSSUM KINGDOM: Water clear; 76 degrees; 0.22’ low. Striped bass are fair on live bait. White bass are slow. Catfish are good on cut shad.

PROCTOR: Water stained; 65 degrees; 7.93’ low. Catfish are good on cut shad.

RAY HUBBARD: Water stained; 74 degrees; 0.05’ high. White bass are good on jigs. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on stink bait.

RAY ROBERTS: Water lightly stained; 70 degrees; 3.86’ high. White bass are good on shad imitations. Crappie are good on minnows. Catfish are good on shad.

RICHLAND CHAMBERS: Water lightly stained; 78 degrees; 0.67’ high. White bass are good on slabs. Hybrid stripers are fair on live shad. Catfish are fair on shad.

NACOGDOCHES: Water stained; 68 degrees; 4.26’ high. Largemouth bass are good on topwater frogs, spooks, and swim jigs. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on cut bait and live shiners.

NACONICHE: Water lightly stained; 74 degrees; 2.00’ high. Largemouth bass are good on underspins, jerkbaits and drop shots. Crappie are good on live bait and jigs. Catfish are slow.

NASWORTHY: Water lightly stained; 78 degrees. 0.55’ low. Largemouth bass are good on chatter baits. Crappie are good on chartreuse jigs. Catfish are fair on cut bait and stink bait.

NAVARRO MILLS: Water lightly stained; 70 degrees; 12.20’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics.

O H IVIE: Water lightly stained; 74 degrees; 30.11’ low. Largemouth bass are good on top-waters. White bass are good on top-waters and lipless crankbaits. Crappie are fair on jigs. Catfish are good on cut shad and live bait.

OAK CREEK: Water lightly stained; 76 degrees; 16.31’ low. Largemouth bass are good on creature baits and stick baits. Crappie are fair on

SAM RAYBURN: Water stained; 75 degrees; 2.15’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on Carolina and Texas rigs. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. White bass are good on minnows, jigging spoons and small crankbaits. Catfish are good on cut bait, minnows and worms.

SOMERVILLE: Water stained; 76 degrees; 1.05’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits and spinner baits. Crappie are fair on minnows. White bass are good on pet spoons and jigs. Hybrids are good on cut shad and large jigs. Catfish are fair on stink bait.

SPENCE: Water stained; 75 degrees. 47.85’ low. Largemouth bass are good on jigs. Crappie are slow. Catfish are fair on cut bait.

STILLHOUSE: Water stained; 72 degrees; 4.48’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics. White bass are slow.

TAWAKONI: Water lightly stained; 73 degrees; 1.34’ high. Largemouth bass are good on soft plastics and shallow running crankbaits. Hybrid striper and white bass are good on slabs and live bait. Crappie are good on minnows. Catfish are good on cut shad or punch bait.

TEXANA: Water stained; 68 degrees; 0.99’ low. Large-

21

mouth bass are fair on soft plastics. Crappie are slow.

TEXOMA: Water stained; 67 degrees; 4.91’ high. Largemouth bass are good on live shad and top-waters. Striped bass are good on live shad. Crappie are good on brush piles. Catfish are good on live shad and cut shad.

TOLEDO BEND: Water lightly stained; 75 degrees; 0.78’ high. Largemouth bass are good on top-waters, wacky worms, light Texas rigs and shallow-running crankbaits. Crappie are slow.

TRAVIS: Water stained; 70 degrees; 48.61’ low. Largemouth bass are good on swimbaits, jerkbaits, topwaters and soft plastics.

TWIN BUTTES: Water stained. 78 degrees; 33.70’ low. White bass are good on live minnows and artificial baits. Catfish are good on cheese bait.

TYLER: Water stained; 72 degrees; 0.36’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits, spinner baits and trick worms. Crappie are fair on minnows. Catfish are fair on shrimp and nightcrawlers.

WALTER E LONG: Water stained; 75 degrees. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastic worms. Crappie are good on jigs.

WHITE RIVER: Water stained; 70 degrees; 19.99’ low. Crappie are fair on minnows. White bass are fair on crankbaits. Catfish are fair on cut bait, minnows and worms.

WHITNEY: Water stained; 73 degrees; 8.28’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics. Striped bass are fair on live shad. Crappie are fair on small jigs and minnows. White bass are fair on jigs. Catfish are good on cut shad. WORTH: Water stained; 72 degrees; 1.92’ low. White bass are good on slabs and minnows. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on punch bait and shad.

WRIGHT PATMAN: Water stained; 74 degrees; 1.49’ high. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are fair on range cubes and cheese bait.

Bream on beds

Continued from page 1

coves, as well as near the mouths of creeks across Lake Fork,” Holder said. “There are really a lot of good-sized ones out there. We caught quite a few that were about three quarters of a pound.”

Holder and Kelly were throwing small beetle spins and caught bream on nearly every cast.

“I had never caught bream that large before,” Kelly said. “I’ve also never caught as many at one time as we did that day. You could cast in all directions around the boat and get a bite. It was a blast.”

Holder said they were able to find a large bluegill bed and stayed around the edges of it all morning long.

“The area was full of pan-sized bream,” he said. “They were super aggressive and were bit-

ing like crazy.”

The bream were so aggressive that Holder and Kelly didn’t catch a single bass while fish ing the bluegill beds.

“Bream are some of the best eating fish out there,” Holder said. “If somebody wanted to load a cooler full of large bluegill, this would be the time to do it.”

Holder said targeting bream has really be come a lost art.

“Not many people fish for them on purpose anymore,” he said. “It’s a style of fishing that can really take anglers back to their roots. So many of us started fishing by catching perch and bluegill in a pond or lake on crickets or nightcrawlers. It’s just plain, good-old-fash ioned fun.”

Big day on the water

Continued from page 1

Then Cisneros had an aggressive fish explode on his surface-walking lure. The fish seemed to have some weight to it and started running to the left. He thought it was a redfish, but before he could get a look at it, the fish came unhooked.

“I fired another long cast in the same area where I had just gotten a bite,” Cisneros said. “After a few twitches, another fish blew up on my top-water plug. This fish started running to the side, just like the previous one. Again, I thought it was a redfish, and I was surprised when it came to the surface to see that it was a big trout.”

Cisneros landed this speck, which ended up measuring 28 inches — his new personal best. His son took some photos and videos of the fish before releasing it.

The father-son duo then began wading back in opposite directions from one another. Cisneros made another long cast in the same direction. After just a few twitches of his lure, he got another strike from what seemed to be another heavy fish.

“This fish didn’t explode on the surface the way the previous one did,” Cisneros said. “It just sort of sucked the plug down below the surface. It was fighting a lot like the trout I had just caught and released, and I began to won der if I had just hooked a redfish or another big trout.”

The fish came up to the surface within about a fishing rod’s length away, and he saw that it was another hefty speckled trout.

“This fish was a lot fatter than the one I had just released,” Cisneros said. “She ended up measuring 28.25 inches, and she swam away healthy when I released her.”

Cisneros said it took a little bit for things to set in before he realized what he had just done.

“I couldn’t believe I had just caught the two biggest speckled trout of my life on back-toback casts,” he said. “That trip is going to be hard to beat.”

After the trip, Cisneros and his son noticed the time stamp on the photos of the fish, showing the photos taken of each fish before they were released were just 6 minutes apart.

ter. The fish have been hanging within 10 feet or so of the bottom.

“Slabs have been the ticket for catching the sand bass,” Thorn said. “White and chartreuse slabs from 1 to 2 ounces have been drawing the most strikes.”

Most of the fish have measured from 12-14 inches with a few pushing 15 inches.

Marc Bushboom landed this 7-pound hybrid striper while fishing on Richland Chambers Reservoir.

Photo by Michael Houston.

END OF WATCH FOR K9 RUSTY

In 2013, K9 Rusty came to the Texas game warden K9 team and with warden Royce Ilse completed their training at the Utah POST K9 Program. Their canine career lasted for 8 years, traveling all over Texas tracking down bad guys, finding missing persons and locating evidence in all types of cases. In one case, K9 Rusty located a pistol in the crawl space under a house. During an operation in the Fort Davis Mountains, Rusty tracked and located three individuals up two sides of a canyon including the driver of a bailedout vehicle and several smuggled persons. K9 Rusty became a local favorite during Port Aransas spring break when he helped officers locate illicit drugs among partygoers. On April 30, K9 Rusty, born May 29, 2012, passed away at home.

HAUL OF ILLEGAL FISH, SHRIMP AND CRABS

San Patricio County game wardens received a tip via the Operation Game Thief hotline regarding several individuals suspected of illegally taking large quantities of fish and other aquatic resources with illegal means. The caller reported that the individuals

GAME WARDEN BLOTTER

WARDENS, COAST GUARD ASSIST AFTER BARGE STRIKES BRIDGE

On May 15, a 321-foot barge struck the bridge connecting Galveston and Pelican Island. Game wardens assisted national, state and local agencies in securing the scene and keeping recreational boat traffic safe and away from the accident. The barge was reported to be carrying 30,000 barrels of vacuum gas oil, and 3,000 feet of containment boom was deployed in the vicinity. The intercoastal waterway was closed from Pelican Cut to the Galveston Causeway. No injuries were reported. Game wardens will continue to remain on scene as crews work to remove the barge. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Kills and Spills Team will monitor and assist in assessing the situation in terms of wildlife and fisheries impacts.

were hiding coolers in the brush. Wardens contacted the suspects and discovered they had used an illegal oversized cast net to catch approximately 60 pounds of shrimp, undersized redfish, undersized blue crab and several other species. Citations and OGT reward are pending.

CREW FINDS SHARK FINS, MORE

The Coast Guard boarded 13 commercial fishing vessels and issued 25 safety and living marine resource violations during a late April patrol off the Texas coast.

The crew of the cutter Hawk, an 87-foot coastal patrol boat,

boarded the vessels to review the vessels’ documentation, examine the captains’ permits and inspect the vessels’ required safety equipment, fishing gear and, when applicable, the on-board catch. The 25 infractions observed by the cutter’s boarding teams included illegal possession of two shark fins and providing false information to a federal officer. Crew members also issued violations for expired hydrostatic releases for life rafts and emergency position indicating radio beacons, uncertified fire extinguishers, hazardous conditions of material, failure to maintain oil pollution programs and improper

stowage of life rafts.

The possession of shark fins is a class B misdemeanor and currently under investigation by Texas game wardens.

PARK VISITORS DISCOVER SUICIDE ATTEMPT

A couple at Brownwood State Park, while walking to the fishing pier, noticed a vehicle with a person passed out inside. The woman inside was barely conscious, and what appeared to be a suicide note sitting was propped up on the passenger seat. The woman was barely responsive, and the visitor tried to keep her awake by rubbing

on her chest and talking loudly with her. Park officials, the Lake Brownwood VFD and the sheriff’s office were notified. EMS personnel removed the woman from the vehicle. Personnel found a fishing license, a day permit on the windshield, a backpack full of pills and medication bottles and half empty bottle of Everclear alcohol in the vehicle, along with what appeared to be a suicide note addressed to her father. The woman was transported via CareFlight to a hospital in Brownwood.

PARK BIKE RIDER BITTEN BY DOG At Palmetto State Park, an out-ofstate visitor walked into the park headquarters and said he was just bitten twice by a German shepherd dog while biking. The park superintendent observed a wound on the man’s calf of his right leg which was bleeding and bruising. First aid was given and the Gonzales County Sheriff’s Department was notified. The visitor elected to self-transport to an urgent care facility. Later, he reported that he received a tetanus shot and has made a full recovery.

AND

FOR THE FIELD OR BACKCOUNTRY

WHATEVER YOUR ADVENTURE IS, WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED.

exotics texas

Red stag, exotics in the perfect setting

Do you dream of hunting a big red stag? At the Reserve Ranch, you can achieve your dreams right here in Texas.

According to owner John Ed Stepan, mature red stags are a key focus at the ranch.

“I started breeding them with New Zealand genetics, and we have some outstanding trophies to offer,” Stepan said. “A large, multi-tined stag is a sight to behold.”

Through a strategic relationship and years of breeding from some of the top bloodlines in the world, Reserve Ranch offers world-class red deer hunting at the expansive ranch north of La Pryor, about an hour and a half from the San Antonio International Airport, where you’ll see stags ranging from 300 to 500-plus inches!

Stepan, a lifelong hunter who also operates Ranch Investments, began guiding exotic game hunts in the early 1980s in the Texas Hill Country, and purchased his first hunting ranch in 1993, building it from the ground up. In 2000, he purchased 3,300 acres in South Texas, and added another 3,800 acres two years later, all of which he managed for big game.

Fatherhood eventually took priority in Stepan’s life, leading him to sell the ranches to focus on his growing children.

However, a decade later when his children were off to college, the Reserve Ranch property became available once again. Stepan, with his avid hunting wife, Debra, purchased the ranch with the goal of turning it into the premier hunting ranch in Texas.

The Reserve Ranch encompasses 5 square miles of some of the best habitat in South Texas and is bordered by 2 1/2

In addition to white-tailed deer, more than 20 species of exotics are managed on the ranch, and dove and upland bird hunting is available, too.

“Our dedication is to the preservation of big game animals through the funds generated by hunting,” Stepan said. “This is a proven method of game management utilized by governments and private nature reserves around the world.”

The Hacienda

The Stepans had a vision to create a destination in South Texas that embraces

along with the dreams exemplified by so many Texans. Styled after the historic mission at Goliad, the Hacienda, with its inviting colonnade, courtyards and fountains, takes you to another place in time — Texas in the 1800s. Massive, ancient pecan trees draw you toward the lawn, flanked by the swimming pool and veranda before entering one of the 10 private guest rooms. Also off the colonnade sits an expansive trophy room displaying more than 250 species from around the globe, a card room and 25-seat theater. The dining hall seats 30,

bar, welcoming guests to a gourmet meal coupled with a “Texas flair” after a day in the field, followed by a relaxing evening by the fire pit to share tales of the hunts. The ranch serves individuals, families and corporate groups.

RANCH

(512) 756-6445

Joshua Creek Ranch

THE NEW, COMPACT SUPER BLACK EAGLE

Since its introduction more than 30 years ago, the Benelli Super Black Eagle has set the standard for what an unfailing semi-auto hunting shotgun should be. For 2024, Benelli expands the third generation SBE series with the SBE 3 Compact.

Boasting the same mechanical features and design that has made the SBE 3 the perennial leader in hunting shotguns, the new SBE 3 Compact models present a shotgun that is shorter and lighter for improved handling, better fit, and a more comfortable shooting experience for shooting and hunting enthusiasts with a shorter length of pull.

To begin, the SBE 3 Compact — boasting a 26-inch barrel — has an overall length of 46 1/4 inches. That is 3 1/4 inches and 1 1/4 inches shorter than the standard SBE 3 28- and 26-inch barrel models, respectively. This shorter overall length comes courtesy of a reduced-length buttstock, which shortens the length-of-pull to 13 1/8 inches. Weight is also decreased with the SBE 3 Compact thanks to the more compact stock and 26-inch maximum barrel length.

The SBE 3 Compact shotguns are available in 12- (6.7 lbs.), 20- (5.7 lbs.), and 28-gauge (5.4 lbs.), and chambered for 2 3/4and 3-inch shotshells. All models come with a black synthetic stock and standard features that include Benelli’s Inertia Driven system, extended (IC, M) and flush (C, IM, F) Crio chokes, Crio-treated barrels, Comfort Tech 3 recoil pads, Combtech pads, drop and cast shim kit, and a custom-fitted hard case. MSRP for all models is $1,949.

THE ULTIMATE HUNTING EXPERIENCE

The Bretting Texan Ranch was established in 2020 in Olney, 100 miles northwest of Fort Worth and 90 miles northeast of Abilene. The ranch is in the north central Texas district and the Cross Timbers and Prairies Region.

The B-Tex Ranch offers a premium hunting experience with a focus on trophy whitetail and a variety of exotic animals such as elk, nilgai, fallow, axis, rams and aoudad. The ranch prides itself on creating a family-oriented atmosphere where hunting is more than a sport. The ranch also highlights its dedication to preserving the hunting heritage and fostering outdoor values. They collaborate with numerous sponsors and support programs that aid soldiers and promote outdoor activities among the youth.

The guides at B-Tex are an integral part of the ranch’s operations, having extensive knowledge of wildlife behavior, habitat and ethical hunting practices. The guides not only help in locating and tracking game but also focus on providing a safe, legal and responsible hunting experience. They play a crucial role in educating hunters about conservation efforts and the importance of sustainable practices.

Victor and Ronda Bretting are both native Texans and have been hunting since their early teens. Victor shot his first Texas exotic more than 25 years ago. The couple started hunting internationally 10 years ago and have harvested more than 125 species over six continents. This is all on display in B-Tex’s beautifully designed trophy room which serves as a showcase of hunting accomplishments, where each mount tells a story of the adventure.

The facilities include a 4,100 square-foot, five-star lodge ideal for both corporate and family hunting retreats. Relax around the fire pit under the star-studded Texas sky with fellow adventurers to share tales of the day’s exploits. You can also use the 50-, 100and 200-yard target ranges to enhance your shooting skills.

Culinary delights await at every turn, and the cooking experience at the ranch embraces outdoor methods like grilling and smoking, enhancing flavors with the smoky aroma of open fires, making every meal a memorable part of the ranch experience.

TEXAN RANCH

(214) 869-0567

DOMINATE THE SKIES

Claiming 17,000 acres of soil between the Hill Country and the plains of South Texas is a slice of hunting heaven unlike any other. RecordBuck Ranch boasts incredibly diverse habitat across a blend of rolling hills and grasslands, making it a perfect place for large herds of animals to thrive.

White-tailed deer and elk call the property home, as do more than 50 species of exotics, from axis to zebra. Hunting is a year-round activity at RecordBuck.

Guests return every year for the same enjoyment of the facilities, the service and, of course, the incredible hunting.

Lifelong friendships are formed with guides and employees, both new and experienced. Knowledgeable guides are eager to get their hunters on the biggest trophies. World-class accommodations, including home-cooked meals each day, cozy lodging, an open bar and a friendly staff, make every stay an experience worth repeating. Come for the hunting and stay for the laughter and good times. RecordBuck is still booking for summer, but book soon.

Even after you upgrade to a new HK VP9, with its best-in-class trigger pull and ergonomic, customizable grip, you’re not quite done yet. You still need a couple of important accessories. And we’re not talking about holsters, lights and optics either. Training and Practice – They are two different things and we all need more of both. Look into it … and go do the work!

www.hk-usa.com • 706-701-5554

Field guide for everything exotics

By Craig Nyhus Lone Star outdoor newS

In 2007, Elizabeth Cary Mungall authored what is considered the best field guide for exotic animals, called Exotic Animal Field Guide: Nonnative Hoofed Mammals in the United States.

A lot has changed in the last 17 years, and soon, a new edition of the book will be available, a must-have for any rancher who has obtained or is considering obtaining exotic wildlife for their ranch, for wildlife biologists who study them and for anyone who is interested in exotic species.

“Some animals weren’t an issue in 2007 when the first book came out,” Cary Mungall said. “For example, there weren’t any Hartmann’s mountain zebra in the U.S. at that time, but now some ranches have herds. There also are white-lipped deer, gerenuk and other species in the U.S. now.”

The new edition, published by Texas A&M University Press, will debut at the Exotic Wildlife Association’s Congressional Fundraiser in August, and includes information about more than 10 additional exotic species not included in the first edition.

“Much more than a field guide, Cary Mungall’s book is a long-awaited repository and data source on the ecology, technology and management of more than 80 species of nonnative hoofed animals,” said James G. Teer, founding member of the Texas Chapter of the Wildlife Society. “Anyone with exotics on his or her property will require Exotic Animal Field Guide.”

“It’s very close to being out,” the author said. “The cover shows a scimitar cow in full chestnut and white and the tan calf.”

The 368-page guide better serves the growing industry of raising exotics and related conservation efforts and includes a fully updated photography guide encompassing the latest technology in digital photography.

“We have detailed photos of springbok, including what the animal’s hair is like when they expand the patch on their back, something that’s rarely seen,” Cary Mundall said.

Also included are chapters about the history of exotics in the United States, where to see them, and hints on exotic animal ownership. Each animal profile includes native range maps, information about food habits, habitat, temperament, breeding and birth seasons, fencing needs, and photographs of the animals.

“The goal is to do good things for the animals,” Cary Mundall said. “Each have special characteristics, and people who have them need to keep these in mind. Other sections show what people are getting into when obtaining exotics and how to reliably and ethically work with them.”

Elizabeth Cary Mungall is a science officer at the Second Ark Foundation and adjunct professor in the Department of Biology at Texas Woman’s University. She is the author of The Dama Gazelles and senior author of Exotics on the Range. She lives on a ranch near Kerrville.

The book will be available through Texas A&M University Press and at online retailers.

EXOTIC ANIMAL FIELD GUIDE

Nonnative Hoofed Mammals in the United States

ELIZABETH CARY MUNGALL

Foreword by Charly Seale

SECOND EDITION

With a contribution by Christian Mungall

CONSERVATIONISTS SAVE SCIMITARS,

By Craig Nyhus Lone Star outdoor newS

Exotics ranchers in Texas are playing a role in bringing back endangered species — and want to do more.

The scimitar-horned oryx, once considered extinct in the wild, has been reintroduced in the Republic of Chad in northern Africa and is doing well in a large preserve, and researchers are looking to bring the oryx to other areas of its native range.

The dama gazelle, though, hasn’t been faring as well in its native habitat, with only 250-300 left in the wild.

“They used to be present from the Atlantic to the Nile in North Africa,” said Elizabeth Cary Mundall, Science Officer at the Second Ark Foundation and an adjunct professor in the Department of Biology at Texas Women’s University. “The population has gone so far down it has spurred concern. A big focus has been on keeping dama gazelle from going extinct.”

Texas ranches hold between 1,000-1,500 dama gazelle, and a workshop, the third in a series to be held in September, is aimed at understanding and helping initiatives in the native range countries.

“We are planning on having people from the range states at the workshop,”

Cary Mundall said. “They, including representatives from the preserve in Chad, will provide updates on initiatives, and we’ll discuss what might be helpful. We don’t know enough about what’s happening inside all of the range countries — that’s why we’ve invited them to the workshops.”

Cary Mundall said the Chad preserve is one area where exotics ranchers may be sending dama gazelles in the future to help bolster the population.

“They have one of the better populations, but there aren’t that many,” she said. “West Africa has some, but they are in enclosed areas.”

Dama gazelles, both the eastern and western subspecies, are more fragile creatures in the wild, especially when faced with predators.

“In Tunisia, some were moved from a fenced area into a reserve, but the jackals got them all,” Cary Mundall said. “In other areas, wild dogs are problem predators of the animals.”

Scimitar-horned oryx and addax, another endangered species, aren’t impacted to that level by dogs and other smaller predators.

“Scimitars are large, and addax are ex-

tremely aggressive and protective of their young,” Cary Mundall said.

Texas ranches hold an estimated 12,000 scimitar-horned oryx, 5,000 addax and 1,500 dama gazelle, and hunting plays a significant role in keeping them healthy and abundant.

“You have to have some source of money to pay taxes, keep the fences and keep the staff,” Cary Mundall said. “These aren’t zoos — people aren’t paying admission to come and look at the animals. The hunting keeps everything going. We have a lot more biological diversity by keeping the animals alive and fed here. Plus hunting targets only certain animals. Doing that carefully helps keep healthy herds going.”

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Above, a herd of scimitar-horned oryx keep watch. Photo by David J. Sams. Below, a dama gazelle buck greets his offspring as the fawn’s mother grazes. Photo from Elizabeth Cary Mundall.

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Levi Knight dropped this boar with his .270 on his first hog hunt at his friend’s property in Wood County.

Thomas Wooton, of Cullman, Alabama, caught a nice red near the jetties at Port Aransas.

Elaina Shetler, 7, shot her first turkey with her .410 during the youth weekend while hunting with her grandpa.

Cameron Ricci caught this catfish at a pond near his home in Haslet. He had set his rod down and the fish dragged it into the pond. His fishing buddy cast a few times and caught his rod and reeled it in. Then Cameron reeled in the catfish.

P R Cates shot this 10-pointer on his ranch.

27

30

TEXAS SUN, MOON AND TIDES

08:16 2:20a 2:19p

01 Sat 1:33 7:45 1:57 8:09 06:21 08:17 2:51a 3:24p

02 Sun 2:16 8:28 2:40 8:53 06:21 08:17 3:23a 4:30p

03 Mon 2:59 9:12 3:25 9:38 06:20 08:18 3:57a 5:38p

04 Tue 3:46 9:59 4:13 10:27 06:20 08:18 4:35a 6:48p

05 Wed 4:37 10:52 5:06 11:21 06:20 08:19 5:18a 7:57p

06 Thu 5:34 11:49 6:03 12:18 06:20 08:19 6:07a 9:03p

07 Fri 6:34 12:19

Jun

Sabine Pass, north

Galveston Bay entrance, north jetty

Freeport Harbor

Port O’Connor

Nueces Bay

Matagorda

National champ

“He introduced me to the world of art through a contest.”

Challenges occurred at the beginning of Macias’ career, but she said she grew into it and embraced her skills. This was when she made the decision to strengthen her gift in art and leave running behind.

An international conservation education program uses the Fish Art Contest to encourage interest in fish, fisheries and fishing among youth.

The program encourages K-12 students to submit original artwork of any fish and an essay or poem (grades 4-12) about the participant’s fish entry, its habitat, or efforts to conserve it.

Macias explained she did not grow up fishing, but this opportunity impacted her in a very positive way as this is not her first art competition.

“I have won scholarships and awards for my artwork, including drawings of a skull, a bull, a boat, two fish and even of my cousin,” Macias said.

The process of Macias’ art piece titled, “Black Crappie,” took three weeks to complete and she admitted she endured some pressure.

“I was kind of in a hurry to complete it because I was also working on another piece for an entirely different competition,” she said. “Both pieces had deadlines, so I would stay up very late at night to complete both.”

When Macias completed her artwork for the Fish Art Contest, she said she felt good about it.

“I was really surprised when I found out I won, but I also expected to do well because of how confident I felt about my work,” Macias said.

After graduation, Macias said she wants to become a fashion illustrator as she knows her talent and patience in the art world would bring success in this field.

“Art not only enhances my perspective, but also introduced me to wonderful friends,” she said. “I am grateful to God for giving me this skill and the support my parents and friends give me.” Macias wasn’t the only Texan to do well on the national stage. Caroline Sullivan, of Spring, finished second in grades 7-9 with her red snapper painting, and Luke Zhang, of Katy, took second place with his rainbow trout painting in grades 4-6.

Coastal tourney

brought in a total of 655.17 pounds of fish. A similar number in the specked trout entry weighed in 214.05 pounds. Finally, the 161 anglers who registered and caught flounder checked in a total of 30.91 pounds.

The tournament raises money for scholarships, with $1,000 going to 15 area students. Brownsville resident Joey Lopez fished both this and last year. “It was a fun tournament,” he said. “Last year’s weather was horrible.”

Winners:

Mia Macias has competed in and won several art contests, and she plans to become a fashion illustrator. Photos from Mia Macias.

LONE STAR OUTDOOR PUZZLER

Solution on Page 22

ACROSS

3) Feared by the turkey hunter

5) Sinker type

7) A border lake

9) Bass boat brand

10) Safari destination

11) Coastal bay

14) West Texas lake, ___ Henry

16) Group of pheasants

17) A tom’s mating ritual

19) Trout species

20) Offshore species

24) Fly rod brand

25) Crankbait brand

29) Site of NRA’s annual meetings

31) A Great Lake

32) The elk hunters’ org.

35) Austin County’s seat

37) Turkey decoy maker

39) The male mallard

41) Famous slot-limit bass lake

42) Fishing hook brand

43) DeWitt County’s seat

44) An African antelope

45) One of the divers

12 lasagna noodles

4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsps. chopped parsley

Meat sauce:

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 yellow onion, chopped

1 1/2 lbs. ground venison

1/2 lb. sweet Italian sausage

1 1⁄2 tsps. Italian seasoning

1 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. garlic powder

3⁄4 tsp. salt

3⁄4 tsp. ground black pepper

1⁄4 tsp. red pepper flakes

1 tbsp. minced garlic

DOWN

1) Thermal optics brand 2) North Texas lake (two words) 3) Shotgun brand 4) Large group of bees 5) Top-water lure 6) Greenville’s county 8) Group of donkeys 9) One of the sunfish 12) Plainview’s county

13) The tail fin 15) They make up reefs

17) Rifle brand

18) Cousin of the redfish

21) Bow type

22) Namibia’s capital 23) Hunting boot brand

26) Pike-fishing province

27) The red tractor

28) New Braunfels’ county

30) Fishing line brand

33) Group of ducks

34) Lamar County’s seat

35) The angry furbearer

36) Central Texas river

38) Group of vultures

40) Liked by deer, quail, hogs

2 tbsps. tomato paste 36-48 ounces marinara sauce

Cheese mixture:

1 (16 oz. bag) coleslaw mix

2 cups ricotta cheese

1⁄4 cup parmesan cheese

1⁄4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 large egg, beaten

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil then cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and run the noodles under cold water. Set aside.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-6

Sales reps hired

NEXTORCH Industries retained Elite Outdoor Sports as its sales representatives among U.S. retailers, wholesalers and distributors.

CEO for CSG USA

Czechoslovak Group (CSG) appointed Paul Lemke as chief executive officer of CSG USA, the company’s Virginia-based U.S. division.

Agency for GPO

German Precision Optics retained Mountain State Sports Marketing for sales representation in the Western states.

Position at SDS Imports

SDS Imports is looking to hire a director of product management.

European expansion

EXPLR of Sweden, a distributor and retailer of paddle sport products in Scandinavia, was appointed to oversee expansion in Finland and Denmark.

Benelli names logistics officer

Benelli USA named Chris Binion to the position of chief logistics officer.

Brand manager for Pnuma

Pnuma Outdoors and Heated Core named Amber Liljestrand as brand manager.

Sevcik promoted

Derek Sevcik was promoted to executive vice president of operations of Outdoor Sportsman Group.

New distribution center opens

Marine products distributor SeaWide Distribution opened a new distribution center in Dallas to serve customers and suppliers in the South-Central region.

Kona Bikes sold

Kent Outdoors sold Kona Bikes to a group led by Kona’s original founders, Dan Gerhard and Jake Heilbron.

minutes. Add ground venison and Italian sausage to the pan, and cook until mostly browned. Drain if needed. Add in seasonings, minced garlic and tomato paste and mix well. Let tomato paste cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring as it cooks. Add marinara and stir well. Bring to a simmer and stir occasionally. Stir together the ricotta, Parmesan cheese, parsley and egg until completely combined. Set aside.

Spoon a thin layer of the meat sauce onto the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with an even layer of 4 noodles. Top the noodle layer with a third of the meat sauce. Dollop half of the ricotta over the sauce and use a spoon to spread evenly. It will be a thin layer and may swirl with the sauce. Top the ricotta with 1 cup shredded moz-

zarella. Repeat with four more noodles, half of your remaining sauce, another layer of ricotta and another cup of mozzarella, then four more noodles, remaining sauce, and sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella evenly over the top, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Cover lasagna with foil. Spray the side of the foil facing the lasagna with cooking spray to avoid sticking. Bake for 25 minutes, remove the foil, then bake for another 25 minutes. Let the lasagna rest for 15-30 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

—Moultrie Mobile

Puzzle by Craig Nyhus, Lone Star Outdoor News

e world leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and promoting sustainable-use wildlife conservation worldwide is thrilled to be celebrating our grand opening in San Antonio, Texas!

SATURDAY, JUNE 29TH 3:00PM – 7:00PM

OK fees spike

Continued from page 4

multiple licenses, cutting red tape and modernizing the license-purchasing process.

For nonresident deer hunters, fees increased to $299 per season for a general hunting license, plus $500 for each deer season (archery, rifle and primitive).

Wilson said if he hunts archery (his preferred method), rifle (a 10-day season) and primitive (muzzleloader), he’s looking at $1,500 plus the general license for himself and his sons, who are now over 18 years old.

“I have two boys who hunt,” he said. “They aren’t making it friendly for young people who want to hunt. Instead, they are making it where they can’t afford to do it.”

On the Texas Hunting Forum, BOBO described himself as a Texas resident who owns land in the Oklahoma Panhandle.

“It’s going to cost me roughly $2,800 if I hunt all seasons on my own land,” he posted, noting he hunts pronghorn as well and the Texas rate for nonresidents is far less, with a Super Combo license less than $400.

“I normally get two pronghorn doe rifle depredation permits each year,” he wrote. “It now will cost me (or my kids killing them) $1,016 to kill two pronghorn depredation does.”

Texans who hunt in Oklahoma remind new hunters in the state to keep something else in mind, especially in that first year. Since the state’s hunting licenses run for the calendar year, when seasons extend into January, a new license is required.

Wilson said the changes could cause his family and other Texans to search for somewhere else to hunt.

“I don’t think it’s right to just target the nonresidents,” he said.

Smith joins CKWRI Advisory Board

Carter Smith, the former executive director of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for nearly 15 years, was named to the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute’s Advisory Board. The institute said Smith brings a unique perspective and it is fortunate to have him share his time and passion with the Institute.

In 2023, Smith also joined the board of directors of AgriCapture, a company that collects property-specific data to submit for verification and credit issuance under the Climate Action Reserve. By purchasing grasslands conservation carbon credits, corporate partners offset their emissions and incentivize landowners to protect underground carbon storage within their grasslands.

—Staff report

UTAH

Funds for mule deer

The Mule Deer Foundation contributed a record $2.2 million to support critical habitat projects statewide. The funding boost is part of a partnership with the Utah Division of Wildlife Watershed Restoration Initiative, which works to improve conditions for mule deer, big game and other wildlife.

The funding will support more than 100 proposed projects under the WRI framework. These initiatives span all five regions of Utah to ensure impactful outcomes for ecosystems and communities.

—MDF

MINNESOTA Tackle company going lead-free

Lindy Legendary Fishing Tackle has become the first major U.S. fishing tackle manufacturer to pledge to get the lead out of its products within three years, signing an agreement with the National Loon Center to become lead-free.

Lindy is launching a new line of products under the name “Lindy-Lead Free,” providing four styles of lead-free fishing jigs available in 144 variations.

Lindy officials say they have developed a unique blend of nontoxic materials, including bismuth, that will look, feel and fish like lead.

—Lindy

MONTANA Stemler named Conservationist of the Year

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation presented longtime biologist and avid hunter Casey Stemler with the Conservationist of the Year Award at its 40th Anniversary Celebration on May 4.

Stemler is the force behind the Department of Interior’s 2018 Big Game Winter Range and Migration Corridors Initiative to improve habitat in western migration corridors.

“Casey’s dedicated efforts led to unprecedented focus and support over the last decade for the conservation of western big game species resulting in millions of dollars in committed funding for mapping, research, barrier removal and land and wildlife conservation,” said Blake Henning, RMEF chief

—RMEF

Two coastal record fish

Two anglers set new state records for their catches in early May. Jason H. Rich, 40, of McRae-Helena, reeled in a 23-pound, 15.04-ounce almaco jack on May 2, while fishing offshore between the South Ledge and Navy Tower R3. The catch shatters the previous record of 19 pounds, 10.53 ounces set in March 2024. Rich used a spinning rod with

a vertical jig to entice the record-breaking almaco.

On May 4, Molly M. Strickland, 27, of Lumber City, hooked a 30-pound, 14.24-ounce blackfin tuna, tying the state record. Strickland was fishing with a daisy-chain rigged with ballyhoo.

—GDNR

MARYLAND

Congress with shotguns

Members of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus and industry partners gathered at Prince George’s Trap and Skeet Center for the annual bipartisan Congressional Clays Competition. Made up of nearly 250 members of the House and Senate, the caucus is the largest and most active bipartisan caucus in Congress.

CSC has spearheaded several critical pieces of legislation, including the EXPLORE Act, America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act and the Protecting Access for Hunters & Anglers Act.

Sponsors of the event included Bass Pro Shops, Outdoor Sportsman Group, Richard Childress Racing, Dallas Safari Club, Hornady, National Shooting Sports Foundation, Shimano, Silencer Central, Safari Club International and Vista Outdoor.

Congressional winners:

Top Gun Member of Congress: Rep. John Rutherford (FL)

Top Gun Republican: Rep. Jeff Duncan (SC)

Top Gun Democrat: Rep. Mike Thompson (CA)

Top Skeet: Rep. Bill Huizenga (MI)

Top Trap: Rep. Richard Hudson (NC)

Top Sporting Clays: Rep. Gabe Vasquez (NM)

ARKANSAS

Mack’s Prairie Wings, Bass Pro partner

Mack’s Prairie Wings and Bass Pro Shops announced a new partnership between the outdoor brands. Founded in 1944, Mack’s Prairie Wings is based in Stuttgart, Arkansas, and home to the World’s Championship Duck Calling contest each November.

Mack’s Prairie Wings founder M.T. “Mack” McCollum, and his son Marion McCollum, started their shop from humble beginnings and grew their businesses.

Mack’s Prairie Wings is a 125,000 squarefoot waterfowl mecca and has long been a great destination for waterfowl hunters.

Details of the partnership terms were not provided.

—Bass Pro Shops

TEXAS SALTWATER FISHING REPORT

SABINE LAKE: 72 degrees. Black drum and redfish are fair on live shrimp under a popping cork along the edges of rocky banks and shell. Speckled trout are fair on Carolina-rigged live shrimp near the jetties and Intracoastal waterway.

BOLIVAR: 72 degrees. Sand trout, black drum and speckled trout are fair on live shrimp along the jetty. Black drum are fair on cut bait in the surf.

TRINITY BAY: 76 degrees. Speckled trout are slow. Redfish are slow due to low salinity. Black drum are fair on shrimp near the Fred Hartman bridge.

EAST GALVESTON BAY: 78 degrees. Speckled trout, black drum and redfish are fair on live shrimp in isolated pockets of fishable water along the south shoreline.

GALVESTON BAY: 76 degrees. Black drum and speckled trout are fair on live shrimp near Moses Lake.

WEST GALVESTON BAY: 79 degrees. Speckled trout are good on live croaker. Black drum are fair on live shrimp over shell reefs.

TEXAS CITY: 77 degrees. Speckled trout, redfish and flounder are fair on soft plastics. Speckled trout, redfish and black drum are fair on live shrimp at Galveston Jetties.

FREEPORT: 81 degrees. Speckled trout and redfish are good on soft plastics and live shrimp under the birds in Bastrop Bay, Christmas Bay and Chocolate Bay.

EAST MATAGORDA BAY: 72 degrees.

Speckled trout are fair on croaker and live shrimp under a popping cork. Redfish are fair on live shrimp and cut bait.

WEST MATAGORDA BAY: 72 degrees. Black drum are good on live shrimp and cut bait near pods of shell. Redfish are good on cut mullet over mud flats.

PORT O’CONNOR: 74 degrees. Speckled trout are good on live shrimp at the end of the jetties. Redfish are good on shrimp and cut bait. Black drum are good on fish bites, crab and dead shrimp.

SAN ANTONIO BAY: 75 degrees. Redfish are good on cut mullet. Black drum are good on dead shrimp. Speckled trout are fair on live shrimp under a popping cork.

ROCKPORT: 76 degrees. Speckled trout are good on live croaker and live shrimp under a popping cork. Redfish are fair on shrimp, cut menhaden and cut mullet. Black drum are good on dead shrimp.

REDFISH BAY: 75 degrees. Redfish are good on shad, menhaden and mullet. Speck led trout are good on croaker near Dagger Island. Black drum are fair on shrimp.

PORT ARANSAS: 76 degrees. Redfish are good on shrimp, blue crab and cut bait. Speck led trout are good on croaker and shrimp.

CORPUS CHRISTI: 75 degrees. Redfish are good on shad, menhaden and mullet. Speck led trout are good on croaker. Black drum are fair on dead shrimp.

BAFFIN BAY: 75 degrees. Speckled trout and redfish are fair on shrimp, top-waters and soft plastics.

PORT MANSFIELD: 85 degrees. Redfish are good on top-waters. Flounder are good on soft plastics. Speckled trout are fair on soft plastics and top-waters.

SOUTH PADRE: 75 degrees. Speckled trout are good on live shrimp under a popping cork near Gas Well Flats. Redfish are fair on cut mullet.

DATEBOOK

NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION

MAY 31

DELTA WATERFOWL

Coastal Prairie Dinner

Braman Winery, Richmond (972) 921-1855

deltawaterfowl.org

JUNE 1-2

TEXAS GUN & KNIFE SHOWS

Abilene Convention Center (830) 285-0575

texasgunandknifeshows.com

JUNE 3

DUCKS UNLIMITED Northeast Texas Raffle Night Stonehouse, Colleyville (202) 361-7674 ducks.org

JUNE 7 OPERATION GAME THIEF

Austin Area Claystoppers Shootout Hog Heaven Sporting Club (512) 389-4628 ogttx.org

DUCKS UNLIMITED

Guns & Bugs Clay Shoot

Providence Plantation, Rosharon (713) 471-8854 ducks.org

JUNE 8

TEXAS BIGHORN SOCIETY

Annual Roundup

Odessa Marriott Hotel (806) 745-7783 texasbighornsociety.org

Women in the Outdoors Hilliard Ranch, Davilla (254) 760-8012 nwtf.org

JUNE 13

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION

East Texas Banquet

Tyler Rose Garden Center (254) 707-0081 rmef.org

JUNE 20

DUCKS UNLIMITED

State Convention Moody Gardens, Galveston ducks.org

JUNE 22

DSC FOUNDATION

Annual Gala Sheraton Dallas Hotel (972) 980-9800 dscf.org

JUNE 29

NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION

Montgomery County Banquet The Grand Plaza, Spring (417) 540-6035 nwtf.org

JUNE 29

SAFARI CLUB INTERNATIONAL

Grand Opening of Headquarters San Antonio safariclub.org/Texas

MOBILE SPORTING CLAYS FOR HIRE!

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HUNTING & CATTLE RANCH FOR SALE

2200+ ACRESGREER COUNTY, OKLAHOMA UCHuntingproperties.com (click on Oklahoma) Video, photos, interactive map, and more! Stacey Greb (580) 678-0662

Furnished Cabin With Water, Septic, Electric $410,000 Matus Properties (512) 658-7114

SOUTHWEST RANCH SALES 3625 acres (2400 aces high fenced) Stephens County, OK Hunt year round, 200 class whitetails

SWRANCHSALES.COM click on Oklahoma Scott Johnston (405) 249-8241