Category Archives: Amusement

Contributions of hunters, anglers benefit everyone

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conservaationPHOENIX — Even if you don’t actively participate in the time-honored traditions of hunting or angling, National Hunting and Fishing Day is a day of celebration for everyone.

Whatever your interest in wildlife, hunters and anglers—the original conservationists—have made countless contributions over the decades to the conservation of fish and wildlife through sound, science-based management.

Governor Doug Ducey recently signed a proclamation (PDF) celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day on Saturday, as well as recognizing the role that the state’s hunting and angling community plays as an economic driver.

It’s important to understand how those outdoor pursuits benefit wildlife. Since 1939, hunters and anglers have generated more than $15 billion toward wildlife restoration through an excise tax imposed on the sale of hunting, angling and shooting-sports equipment.

Those funds are administered by the federal Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration (WSFR) program, one of the most significant programs benefiting wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation. WSFR funds, along with the sale of hunting and fishing licenses, provide a substantial portion of wildlife conservation funding for activities such as fish and wildlife population management, habitat management, research, surveys, land acquisition, hunter education, shooting and archery ranges, boating access, and more.

Who benefits? The general public gets better stewardship of natural resources. Hunters and anglers get more and better places to hunt and fish. State and federal agencies receive more funds to meet their conservation needs.

More than 786,000 Arizona hunters and anglers certainly are doing their part to keep the state in the black, spending more than $1.2 billion annually and supporting 18,220 jobs, according to the latest report (2011) by the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation. As a result, $132 million in state and local taxes, and another $155 million in federal taxes, are collected annually.

“I want to thank Governor Ducey for this proclamation that recognizes hunters and anglers as the cornerstone of conservation in Arizona,” said Edward “Pat” Madden, chairman of the Arizona Game and Fish Commission. “They are being recognized for job creation, financial impact, conservation efforts and wildlife enhancement.

“On their day, the citizens of Arizona should take a moment and thank a hunter or angler for their contributions to our state.”

As part of National Hunting and Fishing Day, the Arizona Game and Fish Department will be hosting a free public fishing event as part of “Verde River Days” at Dead Horse Ranch State Park. For more information, including a listing of additional free public fishing events statewide in October, visit https://fishazblog.com/free-public-events/.

Free fishing clinic October 1 at Kinnikinick Lake

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fishing-clinicFLAGSTAFF — Want to learn about fall fishing in northern Arizona? Join the Arizona Game and Fish Department on Saturday, October 1 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kinnikinick Lake for a free fishing clinic. The event is for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.

Approximately 50,000 rainbow trout and 10,000 brown trout have been stocked into Kinnikinick during the past two months. Game and Fish staff, along with members from the Northern Arizona Fly Casters and Trout Unlimited Flagstaff Chapter, will be on hand to assist all participants.

Those attending will learn fishing basics, types of equipment to buy on a budget, casting and catching, and what species of fish are in the lake. Participants might also get the opportunity to try fly-fishing. Loaner fishing poles and tackle will be available, and fishing licenses will not be required for those participating.

The weekend also marks the opening of fall small game hunting season. So squirrel, rabbit, dove and quail hunting tips and tricks will be shared by the Game and Fish experts. Come on out and learn about great spots for small game hunting — and maybe even pick up a recipe or two.

Participants should bring food and dress appropriately for fall weather.

To get to Kinnikinick Lake, drive 30 miles south out of Flagstaff on Forest Highway 3 (Lake Mary Road) and turn east on Forest Rd. 125, then go 4 miles to Forest Rd. 82. Turn southeast and head 5.5 miles to the lake.

Fisheries experts reclassify three native fish species as one

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1473410181403-rnau2comnz-5e72c45ae3ecacbeef050b26f9d90acaPHOENIX — A professional committee of fisheries scientists has determined that three species of chub found throughout the lower Colorado River basin—roundtail chub, headwater chub, and Gila chub—will now be recognized as one species, referred to as roundtail chub.

The decision last week by the American Fisheries Society and American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists Joint Committee on the Names of Fishes resolves a long-term disparity among scientists, as these chub populations are physically similar and have been genetically indistinguishable at the currently recognized species classifications. The inability to differentiate them at a species level made management highly complex, especially given that Gila chub is listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act and roundtail and headwater chub were proposed for listing as threatened in 2015.

Arizona Game and Fish Department biologists last year conducted a complete review of all data and scientific literature available to determine if the available science supported the recognized taxonomic designations of the three species of chub. The department’s review found no justification to support the separation of chub into three separate species, and concluded they should be classified as a single species.

Subsequently, Game and Fish formally requested that the American Fisheries Society re-evaluate the recognized taxonomic designation of the three species. The analysis was assigned to the joint committee, which conducted months of review and listened to presentations by fisheries scientists on the morphology and genetic status of chub. The committee concluded there is no morphological or genetic data that define populations of roundtail chub in the lower Colorado River basin as members of more than one species.

The committee’s decision is strongly supported by Arizona Game and Fish and will result in more effective management and conservation of roundtail chub throughout the state. Based on this decision, the species is found in more than 70 streams in Arizona alone. .

“This is a huge success for chub and for those who manage and conserve chub in the lower Colorado River basin,” said Chris Cantrell, aquatic wildlife chief for Arizona Game and Fish. “The taxonomic history of this species has been debated for decades, which has influenced our management strategies and our ability to implement conservation on a range-wide basis. We know the decision will open doors to more opportunities to protect and conserve chub in Arizona.”

The Joint Committee on the Names of Fishes is a collaborative group of the American Fisheries Society and the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists. It maintains a list of scientific and common fish species names to achieve uniformity and avoid confusion in nomenclature. Their work is important to help fisheries professionals know exactly what species or subspecies is under discussion. Fish identification is particularly important when the species is under endangered species protections.

To view the department’s 2015 letter sent to the American Fisheries Society and the joint committee’s final decision, visit In the Current, the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s native aquatic species news site.

Williams suffering chlorophyll depletion

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800-16-09-08-86WILLIAMS — Trees around Williams are hinting of the coming climate change commonly called fall. The heavy rainfall from the monsoons has filled the oaks and aspens and other trees in and around the city with lovely green leaves.

Some leaves with their yellow color which still contain some chlorophyll.

Some leaves with their yellow color which still contain some chlorophyll.

Prevailing science indicates that the leaves actually have the different colors that appear to create a picturesque fall. The trees produce chlorophyll in abundance during the summer causing the leaves to appear green. As the climate changes for fall, however, the trees stop producing the chemical and the true color of the leaves come through.
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The autumnal equinox begins September 22, but some of the trees can’t wait. During the transition you will still see wild flowers in abundance.

As summer wanes, some outsiders might believe that there is less to do in Williams. They miss the some great hiking a photographic opportunities leading us into the major holiday seasons of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Mountain Village Holiday.

Benham trail—two-miles out of Williams across Perkinsville Road from the turn to Dogtown Road—is a nice hike. The aspens at Buckskinner reservoir are popular with photographers. There is, however, another hiking trail at the day-use area of the park. It meets up with the Williams Trail at the end of Sheridan Avenue. It is a fairly stringent hike, however.

The acorns are sprouting on the oaks.

The acorns are sprouting on the oaks.

Hiking is a great way to enjoy the change of season, but the road to Bill Williams Mountain makes a lovely drive for those who cannot make the four-mile hike. The road to Dogtown Lake is also a beautiful drive.

If you drive about seven-miles east of Williams on Route 66, you will find Oak Hill Snow Play area on the left. Across Route 66 from the Oak Hill Snow Play area is a nice hiking trail which leads to the Keyhole Sink where you will find ancient petroglyphs. The hike is about a mile and is beautiful during the fall.

Even during the cooler fall weather, we recommend taking water. If you plan on hiking with your dog, or cat, take water for them and remember to keep them on a leash. Others may be hiking with their animals. Also carry bags to clean up your dogs leavings.

There are other places to hike and other things to do during the season. To find out more visit the Williams Visitor Center on Railroad Avenue.

Applications sought for Arizona Game and Fish Commission

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PHOENIX — The Governor’s Office is currently accepting applications for the Arizona Game and Fish Commission. Applications must be received or postmarked no later than 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30, 2016. Applications received or postmarked after the deadline will not be considered.

Governor Doug Ducey is seeking members who are well-informed and passionate about Arizona wildlife and its long-term conservation. In accordance with Arizona law, the Game and Fish Commission is required to be politically balanced and representative of all 15 counties (i.e., no more than three commissioners may be from the same political party, and no two commissioners may be residents of the same county).

Therefore, this Commission vacancy is NOT available to registered residents of Apache, Coconino, Pima, or Yuma counties. Residents of all other counties—Cochise, Gila, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave, Navajo, Pinal, Santa Cruz and Yavapai—are eligible and encouraged to apply.

Interested individuals may apply by clicking here: Boards and Commissions Application.

For further information about the Arizona Game and Fish Commission and its mission, visit www.azgfd.gov/commission. Individuals also may contact the Governor’s Office of Boards and Commissions at (602) 542-2449.

Paper applications for 2017 spring hunts now being accepted

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PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department has posted the “2017 Spring Turkey, Javelina, Bison and Bear Hunt Draw Information” online at www.azgfd.gov/draw.

The department now is accepting paper applications for 2017 spring hunt permit-tags issued through the draw process for spring turkey, javelina, bison and bear. The online application service is expected to be available in early to mid-September.

Paper applications can be mailed: Arizona Game and Fish Department, Attn.: Drawing Section, P.O. Box 74020, Phoenix, AZ 85087-1052, or dropped off at any department office statewide.

The deadline for all spring hunt permit-tag applications is 11:59 p.m. (MST) Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2016. Paper applications must be received by the department by the deadline. Postmarks do not count.

The printed “2017 Spring Turkey, Javelina, Bison and Bear Hunt Draw Information” booklets are expected to be available at department offices and license dealers statewide in early September.

Applicants must possess an Arizona hunting license to apply for a spring hunt permit-tag. That license must be valid through the last day of the spring hunt permit-tag application period (Oct. 11). Licenses now are valid one year from the time of purchase. Licenses can be purchased online at https://www.azgfd.com/license, or at any department office or license dealer statewide.

As a reminder, applicants should thoroughly read and understand the appropriate regulations before submitting a hunt permit-tag application or before going afield.

Dove season outlook: Expect plenty of birds

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Dove_-_White-winged_2PHOENIX — So, how’s dove hunting going to be this season?

It’s a rhetorical question in Arizona. That’s because, in any given year, an estimated 20 million to 30 million mourning doves – and another 2 million to 3 million of the bigger white-winged doves – are residing here come opening day.

“It’s going to be a good year,” said Johnathan O’Dell, a small game biologist for the Arizona Game and Fish Department. “A ‘down’ year for us is 20 million. An ‘up’ year is 30 million. I’ve never worried about doves not being here on opening day. There’s a lot of them.”

The 15-day “early” season gets underway 30 minutes before legal sunrise Thursday. The daily bag limit is 15 mourning and white-winged, of which no more than 10 may be white-winged. The possession limit is 45 mourning and white-winged in the aggregate after opening day, of which no more than 15 may be taken in any one day. Of the 45-dove possession limit, only 30 may be white-winged, of which no more than 10 may be taken in any one day. There is no daily bag limit or possession limit on the invasive Eurasian collared-dove.

O’Dell said he hopes hunters see a few more of the preferred white-winged making up their bag limit this season.

“We’re seeing big increases in white-winged doves,” O’Dell said. “They’re expanding their range, and I think that’s partially due to a lot of agricultural practices across the country. I think we have 22 states harvesting them now, compared to when there were only four or five states back in the day.

“Agriculture plays a huge part in where white-winged doves are located. They’re always looking for small grains. If we have a lot of sorghum, millet, milo, sunflowers, that kind of stuff, it really brings them in.”

The Yuma area continues to be the premier destination for what some hunters consider to be the best wing-shooting action north of Argentina. Banners welcome hunters. Yuma’s motels, restaurants and sporting goods stores look forward to doing a brisk business over the next two weeks. It has been estimated that dove hunters pump up to $5 million into the city’s economy.

A new attraction this year: The inaugural World Championship Dove Cook-off, which takes place from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Yuma Civic and Convention Center. For more information, visit www.yumadovehunting.com.

For everything else “dove,” visit www.azgfd.gov/dove. Also, check out O’Dell’s video demonstrating two techniques for field-dressing doves.

Dove hunters play an important role in conservation. Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program (WSFR) funds are comprised of excise taxes collected on the sale of hunting and fishing equipment (including 11 percent on ammunition), the benefit of which comes right back to Arizona for habitat improvements, shooting ranges, boating access and more.

Increasing numbers of watergoers trading engines for paddles

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paddleboat_1Whether it’s dipping the canoe or kayak into one of Arizona’s lakes for a quiet day of fishing or it’s just to enjoy some time on the water, studies show the number of people reaching for a paddle and heading outdoors is increasing.

Paddlesport activities, including canoeing, kayaking, inflatable rafting and standup paddleboards, are gaining in popularity nationally. In 2014, about 21.7 million people enjoyed the sport nationally – an increase of more than 3 million people since 2010, according to a report from The Outdoor Foundation.

“Paddlesports is truly finding an audience with many people and families looking to experience the quieter side of our lakes,” said Josh Hoffman, Arizona Game and Fish Department Boating Safety Education Program coordinator. “While paddlesports offers a great time on the water, the activity does offer some risk for those who are undereducated and unprepared. That is why it’s crucial for anyone heading out on a canoe, kayak, raft or paddleboard to always wear a life jacket and to take a safety course.”

AZGFD offers free boating and paddlesports safety courses in Phoenix and Lake Havasu City. Those interested in taking a course can register by visiting www.azgfd.gov/boating and clicking “Boating Safety Education.”

In 2015 nationwide, 68 people died while canoeing and 71 died while using a kayak, according to U.S. Coast Guard figures. The most common causes of fatal accidents were capsizing, the vessel overturning or someone falling overboard. More than 83 percent of those who drowned were not wearing a life jacket.

Those heading out on standup paddle boards, kayaks and canoes are reminded that each are legally considered watercraft. Users are required to have a wearable personal flotation device on board while on the water and must follow the same navigation laws pertaining to all watercraft.

“We can never stress it enough that life jackets do save lives,” Hoffman said. “If you were to fall overboard it could be several minutes until rescue arrives. That life jacket will buy you critical time.”

To better prepare for a safe and enjoyable time on the water, paddlers should consider these 10 safety tips:

  1. Take a safety course – Courses such as the free class offered monthly by AZGFD provides paddlers the information needed for canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding.
  2. Wear a life jacket – You never know when your vessel will capsize or you’ll be thrown into the water. A life jacket will help to keep you afloat until your vessel is turned upright or you’re rescued.
  3. Cold water safety – Water colder than 77 degrees can send a person into shock. Even in a healthy person, cold-water immersion can impact muscle movement, breathing and heart rate. Prolonged exposure to the water can lead to hypothermia, cardiac arrest and death.
  4. Learn and follow all navigation rules – Paddlers are each legally considered watercraft and must follow the same laws and navigation rules as any other watercraft.
  5. Safety check – Check your vessel and make sure it is properly equipped before heading out.
  6. Consider potential impacts to wildlife and habitat – Be mindful of how your day out on the water can impact wildlife areas and habitat. Avoid sensitive wildlife areas and check with land managers ahead of time to determine if certain areas are closed to the public.
  7. Know your limits – Always follow your instincts and play it safe. Avoid placing yourself into a potentially dangerous situation.
  8. Carry a sound-producing device – Make sure to bring a device such as a whistle or horn that is audible for at least a half mile. This will help to signal rescuers, if needed.
  9. Keep an eye on the weather – Follow current weather forecasts and avoid heading out if inclement weather is in the forecast. In Arizona during summer monsoon, weather conditions can change quickly and can be deadly.
  10. Have a detailed trip plan – Before heading out on the water, leave a detailed trip plan with location and contact information, and indicate when you could be expected back.

Elk hunting opportunities still available

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PHOENIX — If your heart was set on going elk hunting this fall, but you didn’t receive a hunt permit-tag through the random draw, there’s good news.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department is offering “over the counter” nonpermit-tags to hunt elk in limited population management zones, which are areas where the department does not want resident elk herds, such as the North Kaibab (Game Management Units 12A and 12B) and Arizona Strip (Units 13A and 13B). The elk nonpermit-tags are not valid in all units statewide.
There’s nothing like autumn on the North Kaibab and Arizona Strip. The nonpermit-tag hunts in Units 12A and 12B are open through Dec. 31, while the nonpermit-tag hunts in Units 13A and 13B are open through Sept. 11, then again from Nov. 4 through Dec. 31. All three hunts are for any elk.
There are several advantages to this unique, but limited, hunting opportunity: It’s a great way to hunt with family and friends, which isn’t always possible given the odds of being drawn for hunt permit-tags. It’s also an opportunity to spend time in some of the most spectacular backcountry that Arizona has to offer, particularly in those units north of the Colorado River.
Of course, elk numbers in these specific and limited hunt areas are low, which is expected to correlate to a low hunter success rate. Many of these hunting opportunities also occur at lower elevations where seasonal temperatures can be uncomfortable, making it crucial for hunters to quickly field-dress harvested game, including removing the hide before transporting. Plenty of coolers and ice are recommended to preserve the harvested game before leaving for the hunt.      
Elk nonpermit-tags can be purchased ($135 resident, $650 non-resident) at department offices and license dealers statewide. An Arizona hunting license and an elk nonpermit-tag, both valid for 2016, are required. An elk nonpermit-tag may be used for either the general or archery-only elk nonpermit-tag hunts. A hunter does not lose or accrue bonus points when purchasing an elk nonpermit-tag.
NOTE: The department recommends that hunters thoroughly review the nonpermit-tag portion, including the associated notes, of the 2016 Pronghorn Antelope and Elk Hunt Draw Information booklet.
For more information about boundary descriptions, maps of hunting areas, season dates and FAQs, visit https://www.azgfd.com/hunting/nonpermitotctags/ and click on “2016 Elk Informational Handout for over-the-counter nonpermit-tag hunts.”

Local sportsmen’s groups awarded $75,000 in grants

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sports-groupsPHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department has awarded $75,000 in grant funding for local sportsmen’s organizations to provide public, hands-on, mentored projects focused on the retention of new hunters and anglers.

Of 22 proposals submitted in this latest grant cycle, 16 were approved by a three-member panel that rated and scored the proposals. The grants were awarded through a competitive application process that closed July 14.

“The Local Sportsmen’s Group grant program is an investment in local organizations that, day in and day out, are teaching people how to be safe, ethical and responsible hunter-angler conservationists,” said Doug Burt, hunting and shooting sports program manager. “We wish we could fund them all, but the demand always exceeds our available funds.”

The department is committed to developing and retaining the next generation of hunter-angler conservationists. A growing body of science points to the need for multiple experiences, social support and the mentoring required to develop hunter-angler conservationists. The 16 projects approved meet those objectives.

Burt pointed out that these organizations represent the “boots on the ground,” or the backbone of wildlife conservation and habitat restoration in Arizona. Many are involved in the building of water catchments, making “wildlife-friendly” fence modifications, and reaching out to the public through advocacy and education.

The following projects have been awarded:

  • Anglers United Inc., “Just for Kids Fishing Festival,” awarded $4,500.
  • Arizona Deer Association, “ADA Youth Deer / Elk Hunters Camp,” awarded $5,513.
  • Arizona Elk Society, “AES Junior Elk Camp Units 6A/5B,” awarded $3,900.
  • Ben Avery Clay Busters, “Upland Bird Hunting for Women and Youth,” awarded $2,717.
  • CouesWhitetail.com, “2016 Women’s Javelina Hunting Camp,” awarded $4,300.
  • Desert Christian Archers, “Desert Christian Archers 2016 Javelina Camp,” awarded $4,700.
  • Kahuna Kids, “Mentoring Kids Fishing Derby,” awarded $2,368.
  • Mule Deer Foundation, “Mule Deer Foundation Youth Camps,” awarded $16,500.
  • Southern Arizona Quail Forever, “Southern Arizona Quail Forever Youth Quail Camp,” awarded $3,390.
  • Southwest Fur Harvesters, “SWFH November Youth Trappers Camp,” awarded $5,122.
  • Youth Outdoors Unlimited, “Junior Javelina, Small Game & Predator Camp Units 20C, 18B, and 16A,” awarded $3,900.
  • Youth Outdoors Unlimited, “Junior Deer / Javelina Camp Units 18B & 20C,” awarded $2,515.
  • Youth Outdoors Unlimited, “Unit 1 Squirrel Camp,” awarded $2,000.
  • Youth Outdoors Unlimited, “Wallow Fire Turkey Science and Hunting Camp Units 1 & 27,” awarded $6,575.
  • Yuma Valley Rod and Gun Club, “2016 Cibola Junior Waterfowl Camp,” awarded $2,500.
  • Yuma Valley Rod and Gun Club, “Youth Small Game Camp,” awarded $4,500.

To learn more about the annual Local Sportsmen’s Group grant program, as well as a listing of Outdoor Skills Network recruitment and retention events, visit www.azgfd.gov/LSG.

There is no cost to Arizona taxpayers for the Local Sportsmen’s Group grant program. The program is funded through the sale of hunting and fishing licenses, hunt permit-tags and stamps, and is an investment in the continuance of wildlife conservation efforts and outdoor recreation participation in Arizona. Game and Fish does not receive any of the state’s general funds and operates on a user-pay, public-benefit model.