Use this article to comment on any fishing issue in Region 4 or Southcentral Kansas. Keep discussions polite and appropriate. Any inappropriate comments will be deleted.
To view or add a fishing report, CLICK HERE.
Use this article to comment on any fishing issue in Region 4 or Southcentral Kansas. Keep discussions polite and appropriate. Any inappropriate comments will be deleted.
To view or add a fishing report, CLICK HERE.
165 comments:
Put an end to this before someone gets hurt.
http://blogs.kansas.com/outdoors/
agreed...let some of the local non-rich residents have some opportunities..I know there are special hunts available for draw, but most are youth and mentor,..not saying getting youth involved is a bad idea but what about the existing hunters..you lose most of them do to the lack of opportunity..well the ones who can't afford to buy or lease land for $10 an acre I know I can't and I have a pretty decent job..well anyways just saying you should open some of the special hunts to everyone..proof was in the pudding on the fall draw, most of the youths were not filled the first go around if you opened them up I guarantee they would all be filled
Can we not pour thousands of pounds of catfish into KDOT this year? About half of them die in the first week and their bloated bodies line the shore for the rest of spring and early summer. Needless to say, the echo system cannot support that many catfish and it makes wading along the shoreline disgusting. I understand that it is hard to get natural channel catfish recruits, but this is clearly overkill. If you cut back, you would have a much more efficient fishery with much bigger catfish and not as much waist.
Instead of pouring money into the catfish stalking program, you should find a way to rid the lake of over grown shad and put in some/a rock pier. The overgrown shad compete with many newborn game fish for plankton and pretty much cannot be caught using traditional fishing methods. Rock peirs allow bank fisherman acces to deep water and would diversify the type of cover at KDOT (it only has brush right now). Another good addition would be water willow. You guys did a great job of introducing water willow to El Dorado, and I think that it could make a huge impact at KDOT.
But seriously, i dont care if you take the catfish money that you save and spend it at Cheney, just don't defile the lake by pumping in so many doomed cats.
I'm refering to KDOT West. KDOT East is already doomed with the dead trout.
i agree thats really grose
Joe, Thanks for your comments about the KDOT lake(s). I appreciate you taking the time to voice your concerns. I do spend quite a bit of my time at the KDOT lakes during the Trout and Channel Catfish stocking seasons, and have not personally witnessed large number of dead trout or channel catfish at either lake in the past. That said, I am currently evaluating our stocking rates at all of our Urban Channel Catfish stocking locations using fish population sampling data and data collected from the anglers fishing at the KDOT lakes in particular, and will be using both data sets to make decisions about future stockings.
I also appreciate your concerns about the habitat conditions at these lakes and will continue to evaluate this as well. Both lakes have been anywhere from 6-8 feet higher than "normal" for the past 2 years. By "normal" I am referring to the level that the lakes both remained at for at least 10 years prior. This increased water level has certainly changed the habitat types available to the fish at these 2 lakes, and will have to be considered for any plans to make changes or additions to the available habitat and structure.
Jessica Mounts
District Fisheries Biologist
Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks
Mrs. Mounts,
I probably came off too negatively. KDOT is an excellent fishery and you guys have done a great job managing it. Those are just a few problems i had with it last year and a few suggestions that i think could make it better. The only thing i really want to change about it is the closed boat ramp. I wish that there was a no outboard or idle only rule instead of a locked boat ramp. I understand why you don't want allot of boat traffic tearing up the lake, but it is a very hard lake to fish from the bank. The only technique i can get away with is flipping and pitching a texas rig. Any other type of presentation would be too expensive because i would lose too many baits. I think that it is more than big enough to support an occasional bass boat that only uses an electric trolling motor. The fish arent always shallow and you can't really fish for them effectively from the bank when they arent up in the brush. The only time i can catch them consistently is during the spawn. On top of making the lake more fishable, it would be a nice spot in the wichita area to take the boat out. The next closest place is 30 minutes away. Please reconsider this policy.
Thanks,
Joe
Joe,
No problem. I really do appreciate your input, and I can see where you're coming from. There have been an increasing number of anglers with an interest in a wider variety of fishing opportunities in Wichita - and so we have started to adapt and change some of our management strategies to meet these needs.
Thanks again,
Jessica Mounts
District Fisheries Biologist
Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks
Jessica and/or anyone else:
I realized I probably should have posted this on the "dick squawk" instead of the other one, whoops!
First off, I think you're doing an AWESOME job, Jessica, of responding to us on this site!
My question to you and/or the other posters is about what to look for or where to fish for wiper on a smaller pond (Sedgwick Co. Park or Watson Park). I'm very interested in trying to fish for wiper this year, but hopefully I can get some more insight from someone. Thanks in advance!
Happy Fishing!
haha joel "dick squawk"
Whoops, sorry about that. The "o" and "I" are right next to eachother. Plus I used my iPod and have fat fingers! You know what I meant!
Joel,
If you know anyone who will let you fish at Crystal Lake in NW Wichita, they have one of the best wiper fisheries in the state.
Other than that, i hear that you can catch wiper in sedgwick county park.
www.kansasbass.blogspot.com
KBR,
Thanks for that bit of info! I'm not sure I know anyone that lives out there, but I'll try making more friends now :) Thanks again!
Are there any plans to stock Harvey County Camp Hawk with catfish this year. It was fished pretty heavy last year due to the Sand creek overhaul in Newton. The local caretaker at the park said the heavy rains may have washed everything over the banks in a flood. In any event I have had no luck out there since last fall.
KBR's mention of Crystal Lake is spot on. I was doing some landscape work at a clients house one morning (who lived on the lake) several years ago when a neighbor lady came down to her dock and started throwing bread into the water. The water started to boil with activity so I asked her if she was feeding the carp. She replied, "Nope. Wipers." I figured she was probably confused because wipers 1) eat fish not bread and 2) they probably aren't in that lake. So I walked over to take a gander and sure enough... wipers alright and big ones too. Will never forget that.
RE: Stocking Channel Cat at Harvey County's Camp Hawk pond
Yes - Channel catfish are stocked yearly at this pond.
Jessica
Jessica,
Is there any hope for another wiper program at Marion Co Lake? I, and others like myself, have found that the population has declined over the past few years and the white bass have become much more predominant.
Rory, FFF
Rory,
Our sampling at Marion County Lake in the last few years has shown some decline in the wiper population. To improve recruitment, we've gone from stocking fry to fingerling wipers. This strategy should give the wipers there a better chance of survival - and we should have a better idea if that strategy is working this fall when we sample the lake agan. Thanks!
Jessica
Thanks for the response Jessica. Inquiring minds appreciate the information.
Rory
I tried my luck at the Chisholm lake complex in Clearwater, and it was slow (to say the least). I used a wide variety of proven baits, along with fishing both on the bottom and with floats all over the place, and all I caught was 2 teeny juvenile channel cat. (Oh, and a gizzard shad that flipped right out of the water and landed at my feet.) I was pretty disappointed.
Whoops, I posted this to the wrong area...sorry about that!
Are small electric-only jon boats allowed on the Wichita city lakes such as KDOT east/west?
Jessica -
I'm curious as to what the regulations are on Floatline/trotline fishing. I read this on the kdwp website:
Each trotline, setline, tip-up, floatline and unattended fishing line shall have a tag or label securely attached, designating the name and address of the operator. No trotline, floatline or setline shall be set within 150 yards of any dam. All floatlines must be under immediate supervision of the angler and must be removed from the water when fishing ceases.
Is it just me, or is that paragraph contradictory? Maybe I am misunderstanding something, please advise.
Thank you,
Ryan
Ryan,
RE: Floatline fishing, I understand your confusion. If we said it this way, maybe it will clear it up:
The following must have a tag or lable securely attached, designating the name and address of the operator:
1.) Trotlines
2.) Setlines
3.) Tip-ups
4.) Floatlines
5.) Any unattended fishing lines
Floatlines must be tagged as indicated above, must ALSO be under immediate supervision of the angler and must be removed from the water when fishing ceases.
In other words, there are several types of equipment that must be marked with your name/contact info, including anything that you leave unattended. HOWEVER, Floatlines are one type of equipment that CANNOT be left unattended.
I hope this helps,
Jessica
RE: Are small electric-only jon boats allowed on the Wichita city lakes such as KDOT east/west?
Carry-in craft (such as float tubes, kayaks, small jon boats, etc) are allowed on most of the Wichita City Lakes and on the KDOT East/West lakes. Motors of any type are typically not allowed, and you must be able to carry the boat down to the water - meaning the boat ramps are not open to the public for launching boats.
Jessica,
How come every report that has your name on it has said the same thing for months. Sounds like someone needs to do thier job.
Anonymous,
Thanks for your input. I appreciate that you're taking the time to remind me to do my fishing reports.
That said, my reports do rely on information from anglers like yourself... it's impossible for me to actually "do my job" and fish all 45 of the lakes in my district myself every week to get this information you're interested in.
Please give me a call sometime, I'd love to talk about fishing with you, or any other angler willing to help me out by fishing the lakes and sharing the information with the other anglers of Kansas.
Jessica
316.683.8069
my opinion about wipers at marion co. lake. If you haven't seen any 12 to 15 pounders or bigger caught or floating dead, they are probably still in there.
i agree with above i have not caught a wiper over 6 lbs since 2005 at marion co . lake but i have still caught dozens, but they were small , white bass might be coming on strong there , i also noticed i havnt caught as many saugeye either in the last 2 years but the ones i would catch would be 18-21 inches overall marion co lake is one of my favorites ...fishin pal jer
Fishin pal jer- only seen marion lake one time. It was early spring or fall (no leaves on trees). Drove down a road behind what I think was the dam. What I saw was a NORTH wind causing rollers but no white caps. I have a lake close to me similar to what I saw, and those conditions spell connections with fish. It was cloudy. Not that you need another fishing tip, but watch for pieces of vegetation this fall floating with the waves hitting the dam. I'd fish that with jig/nightcrawler (walleye/hybrids) from the shore until mid-November. After that, it's fishing at night wherever the marina lights or other street light shine on the water at night. (for walleye) slim profile crankbait or suspending crankbait using fireline. I don't see why saugeye would be any different, but they might hang closer to the white bass.
What pound# wire leader do you use for pike at Kingman?
What is the best natural bait to use for pike, or what methods work the best.
:pike at kingman:
I've used just regular steel leaders but 30# steel/wire leaders should be find. Just something the pike won't chomp through. I've had one almost get away because he almost bit through my nylon landing net.
As for bait, I've had them hit from rapalas to cut bait to live bait.
If any Harvey County East Lake staff reads this blog, the spillway area could use a little attention. There’s quit a bit of trash around the pool which is pretty unsightly.
It’s unfortunate that people can bring all that stuff with them but can’t seem to carry it back out.
Gosh darned varmits.
to fisherman above yes i noticed that to it wouldnt be to hard to clean up some of that trash, i should of when i was there months ago, harvey co east has some nice white bass and saugeye if u can catch em and the dam area is one of the best spots on that lake .. , also has anyone caught any nice saugeye at harvey co east lately...fishin pal jer
cookies, cookies, cookies
Just a suggestion for the trash problems: Have the sheriff's deputy bring a few minimal security inmates or people who owe some community
service time to clean up the area(s).
But I wouldn't offer any cookies.
Here is a recipe for those big Kingman lake carp.
1 can of tuna with the oil.
1 decent handful of wheaties or similar.
Mix both together until it feels like it will stay on the hook.
Add a small amount of fruit punch, but not so much that you will mess up the consistency. Refrigerate for awhile. Next- don't lose a rod/reel combo by not paying attention while fishing. Go this year before the first good front comes in from the north. (dove season)
Recipe is from a Missourian named Mr. Miller.
Fellow fisherman,
I recently found the fishing report form, and just now stumbled across this forum. For the ones that hasn't read my post in the other forum. I'm picking up fishing again from a hiatus. I'm still new to kansas fishing.
Now that is out of the way. Anyone here like going after Walleye, Saugeye, and Smallies? I've recently got the itch to try and catch other beside Largemouths.
I don't have a boat, nor do I know anyone that does. Hopefully, Wife willing, Ill be getting a Kayak to fish from in the next few months. So that will broaden my horizon.
I'd like to be able to hook up with some more experienced Kansas anglers for a little fishing. I don't really have any friends that fish. Or atleast anyone that has knowledge. LOL.
Thanks for the Space.
Andy from SC
Andy from SC,
If your wife will let you spend a few bucks, I know a place in Wichita where you could spend a few more and get a really nice deal on a pretty nice boat. I wish there were an IM system on this report page, but you can email me at rwiske1@cox.net, and I can send you some pics of said boat.
Rory in Wichita.
Rory, wow I thought I was the only one that roamed the sites at night. Thanks for the offer, but my delimma is that I have a Subaru Wagon. And a Kayak is really my only option due to not being able to tow a normal boat. Plus its cheaper on maint. as well.
I appreciate the offer.
Andy
Instead of a kayak get a canoe. Getting a canoe will enable you to utilize a fish finder. While using your new rig, find and memorize underwater topography. Make note for places that are reachable from shore. Only reason I can think of using a kayak for fishing is that you will stay physically fit while paddling, but the down side- there's no room for tackle or other equipment for fishing. Doing it this way, kayak/canoe, will probably take 4-5 years to consistently catch fish, so good luck with that.
The Sit On Top Kayaks have ample storage and are extremely stable. You can even mount a fish finder, and Scotty Rod Holders. Check them out.
www.oceankayaks.com
Ocean Kayaks are on the upper end of the spectrum on Price. Personally I'm looking at a Malibu Mini X Kayak. And for my gear, I have everything I need in 1 normal school backpack. Put a Crate in the storage behind the seat with a few PVC Pipes attached to it to store the rods and I'm good to go.
Plus, I can fit the Kayak in my Shed or Garage with ease, and put it ontop of my car by myself.
Thanks for making sure I explored all my options.
Andy
Andy where in the state are you located?
I'm in Wichita. Specifically, SE Wichita.
Question for the Biologists,
Are the 2 lakes behind Southlakes Stocked as well? I walked the entire lake today and I saw those 2. I didn't know they were back there. The one on the Southwest side is covered in green snot. And the One on the Southeast side is very stained.
Thanks.
Andy,
RE: South Lake
The main South Lake (at 55th and Seneca) is open to public fishing, and is stocked monthly with Channel Catfish. I've heard differing stories from anglers about the other 2 lakes, but according to the city of Wichita, those are not open to public fishing.
Jessica
Is there a boat ramp down stream of Licoln on the Arkansas River? I have been to the Oxford ramp but that is a good haul just to put a boat on the river.
Thanks,
Cody
Cody,
There are carry-in sites with parking located at Lincoln street, Garvey Park (just west of 135 and Hydraulic), and east of 71st street south and Hydraulic. These sites are suitable for carry-in craft such as canoes and kayaks - which means that there is no place to back a trailer down.
The only existing boatramps suitable for launching larger motorized craft are at the Gander Mountain parking lot and at Oxford.
Jessica
I hear the Asian carp are great bait for wipers/sripers as well as catfish. They're coming unless drastic actions are taken now!!!!Stop the spread of ANS. Ban the bait.
Go find a spot and dig a hole when you find a substantial amount of asian carp. Bury them back up when done filling with carp.
OK lets bury Cheney since it's full of ANS. Wake up, we've got a REAL problem headed our way. The ostrich approach doesn't work, look at the white perch problem. The carp invade and conquer. Ban the bait!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'll tell you this now- Where the most recent KWPD video was shot I could dig a hole big enough to last all day and fill it with net/bucket loads of asian carp. The walk to and from the hole is approx. 25 ft. each way. You get a few people doing that there everyday, you'll put a dent in the population at that location. To do it that way we'll need warm weather and water levels similar to what was shown. Those carp are probably temperature sensitive like the others and shad that we have here meaning they will vacate the shallows here pretty quick.
As for white perch problem at Cheney if they are still a problem there. Definitely utilize more channel cat and adult smallmouth if possible. I know that area isn't native largemouth bass range, but if they are establishable use them too. If someone can heard alot of perch together for a period of time you guys could utilize river otters and maybe beaver to do some chowing. If the problem there is getting better there, thanks for reading.
I talked with the comm. fisherman some years back, he said buffaloes remain in 12' or less year long. Maybe we could get some of those gulf coast boys up here and give them a job, since BP has killed the gulf.
if b.p. is paying them for lost wages etc. why leave?
last i heard the commercial fishing was being done on council grove reservoir.
kanopolis could probably use a commercial or contract fisherman to remove some of the rough fish such as drum and carp ...that lake is full of them ..i wouldnt doubt if there are more drum and carp in kanopolis than any other species ..but i wonder what happens to the fish they remove ...do they sell to over seas..lol...or they should make all natural dog food out of the removed fish ..or they should throw them in a large pond or small lake just for roughfish ..lol..ive caught nice catfish on trout gizzards..guess they could use drum and carp guts and make gizzards and jar it and sell it to catfisherman ..lol
Well I'll tell you what they do with the rough fish. Carp are just disposed of at $0.30/#, Buffaloe are big $$$, they are sold back East and the state receives a % in return. The gar can go either way.
Now drum really aren't as bad as you think, first they're excellent
forage, second don't knock em till you try em, third they are/will be excellent zebra mussel controllers Your right about Kanop. in the mornings the Buffaloes are up and active, porpoising by the 100's, I love to watch some guys get excited thinking they are wipers.
Cut the red meat from the drum and mix the fillets with white bass. You might get a funny look from others while eating, but no one should say anything. If you leave the red meat intact you might be asked never to bring them home again. Schooling buffalo are good sport in late March in the north reservoir coves. Ultra light and jigs is what I use when I can find them.
thanks for the info , i tried to clean a 4 pound drum and eat it but when i cleaned it there was hardly any meat cause it was so skinny .. and the meat looked kinda different like greenish blue .. i heard drum are decent to eat and i would give it a try , guess i need to catch a bigger one and try cleaning it ..lol...fishin pal jer
At least a 5 pounder. They are a temperature sensitive fish though. One method we use is to take a crawdad and step on it to disable him and find a flat rock and set him on top and don't move when the drum get close. Another option is use crawdads on a flat where they do prowling. It's a good way for the kids to catch a big one and show them how the drag works on the reel.
i just use nightcrawler to catch my drum somedays during the hot summer drum is all that bites my jig/nightcrawler and no walleye.. i caught a 15 pound drum at marion co . on a ultra light rod but i gave to some asians fellows from salina they were so happy ..lol
to someone at kdwp , just wondering did there use to be good northern pike and smallmouth bass fishing in cheney lake back in the 70s i heard this from someone, also i heard pike use to be in marion county lake, now kingman is the only lake with pike are there any bodies of water in NE kansas with pike ..thanks for any info ...fishin pal jer
I caught a 12 pounder (drum) once at the spillway at Redmond. An oriental lady gave me 7 dollars for it. I was tickled to death.
Here's some ways I use to attempt to catch dog day hot water walleyes. Usually look for fish on the bottom in 24-28 ft. deep. A split shot 3-4 ft. above a full nightcrawler. A piece of cutbait on a hook or leadhead. You'll more or less have to drop it on their nose. A slip bobber rig with cutbait. Black crappie works the best. I knew of one person who would SLOW troll with lead core line real slow with the yozuri style minnow baits. His fish would come from 38-40 ft. depths. Now that the water is starting to cool, it's time to start hitting exposed weed/vegetation areas at night or low light times in the middle areas of the lakes. Not the upper flats, not the dam areas- the middle sections.
good info ..thanks it helps ...fishin pal jer
cotton cordell wally diver's are the crankbaits I use at this time of the year.(sept.) I know there are others but the rattling chamber in that brand is the difference for me. trolling or cast/retrieve
There is a boat ramp on the Walnut in Arkansas City. How far North can a person go before they are on private property?
Thanks,
C
Andy I have fished one of those lakes that is connected to the main lake. I wouldn't really call it a lake, but an overflow because it doesn't seem to be deep at all. I have caught some nice bass out of there. Better than the main lake. I think there is even three around south lake. There is another I believe close to the vegetation covered lake. The other one I have fished is in the other corner of the what I consider to be the dam. It's more like the a runoff pond. It is much deeper and I have caught bass and crappie in that one.
Jessica, I didn't know the city says they are not to be fished... that's just silly!
Asian Carp. From what I understand is they grow fast and large which then means there is no species that predates them. And if they are good bait that would be the worst idea for small asian carp because that will just get them to spread like the perch problem growing in lakes due to peeps using them as bait and releasing them. They spawn three times a year and the density of carp on a small area can be 100 all stacked on top of each other. They feed on the small feed that baitfish eat and that kills off the supply chain at the bottom, which will then kill off the rest. Asian carp also prefer the cold water and that is why the great lakes is in great fear since they are established in Illinois river right now.
Asian Carp would be like Zebra Mussels are here, but each zebra mussel instead of being the size of a nickel be the size of a basketball. And then any lake with sport boating would cease to exist as well for having a carp fly out of the water hitting a skier at 50mph can easily kill someone.
Fished Butler a few weeks back. I had my chest waders on. High sun. I used my crappie rod to pry in the slop trying to find some panfish for a meal, but kept on getting 1lb bass. I then hit up the first rock pier walkway thing and waded out in the rocky shoreline and cast a lake fork craw tube and drug it over the rocks slowly and caught about six bass doing so. I didn't see anyone else catching any fish, but they needed to slow down! Bad thing about fishing from a boat too many times it's nonstop trolling. You can miss lots of prime fishing spots. I also caught a decent bass of one of the points at the last pier.
Dominic,
Thanks for the info. I've just been hitting Emery lately with my boy. Mainly cause I know that he can catch some small ones there. I'l try out those back ponds soon. Maybe drag a SPRO Frog on the green scum one.
Jer,
Let me know when you start planning a Smallie trip. I really wanna try my hand at those Bronzebacked beasts. I'm even trying to get the wife to get me a nice Spinning Reel for the Smallies. My email is escogins@cox.net
Thanks
Whats up at Marion Res. anybody been fishing it?
Seen newspaper article about 50 to 70 pound blue catfish being caught with asian carp for bait recently. Missouri or Kansas rivers- can't remember. I know a 40 pound blue can eat a 15 pound fish of any species. I seen it before. Blues will eat the carp, but probably not more than 20 pounds a week. Just my opinion. The next 5 years or so will be interesting seeing how to go about dealing with the changes the ans cause in our waters.
ok dominic sounds good i will let u know..to marion res question u can catch wiper and white bass trolling right now when theres a south wind ...and marion co lake wiper biting good there trolling, but u need to know the right spot u cant catch the wiper and saugeye all over the lake ,heated dock always has fish around it ...fishin pal jer
Any size to the whites or wipers?
wiper very in size at both lakes..i know marion co lake has some 8 pound wiper i have caught a few there at night time during the summer ,now is the time to troll. when there is a south wind ...and marion resivor has more white bass and they are nice size keepers ...fishin pal jer
And there's no limit. If you can stand to catch a hundred of them, go for it.
not true ..lol.. wiper limit is 2per day ..now white bass i think there is no limit
anyone in their right mind already knows that jer. Go gettem'.
haha..i know just makin sure
KS C.c Fall Crappie Classic
Oct 10
Marion Res.
6:45am Check-in
$25 Entry- 100% payback
2:00pm weigh-in 10 fish
3rd member allowed if 14 and under
3 man teams allowed 1 add. fish
More details on Crappie.com state
message board for KS. Everyone is
welcome.
anyone wanna challenge fishin pal jer or be on my team for the fall crappie classic , im young and in shape . ...lol hahaha
Tip: no one remembers the losers- good luck.
yep you are right
Just a tip from an old teacher/coach. I think we finished last that year.
That is sort of a "crappy" moon phase period to fish for crappie. Wait for the wind, if any, on the tournament day and make decisions after giving a good effort in the morning hours.
i know fishing pal jer and i think hes just playing ..but i do know he does catch alot of fish
KS C.c Fall Crappie Classic
Oct 10 Marion Res.
$25 Entry 100% payback
Contact Jeff Ensz (785)823-7927
jeffensz@yahoo.com for details
Are there any small lakes in the Wichita area where small boats with trolling motors are allowed?
Southlakes is the only one I know of. I've seen Kayaks in KDOT Lakes.
Thanks
Did fishin pal jer win the fall classic crappie tournament this past weekend? How many turned out to fish?
The tournament was cancelled Fri. only 2 teams had entered
no i didnt make to that tournament either myself ..lol..i guess i should of cause i would of won with only 2 teams, i didnt know only so little teams entered or i would have ..hehehe, ive been catchin some walleye in pratt lake
Are there weeds under water for the walleye to hide in? That would be tough for them to see with a 10 ft. maximum depth in Pratt. How did you catch them and what was average size? One thing I need advice with is working weedbeds for walleye during daytime hrs. thanks
no i catch em along the rock jetties usin rattletraps or jigs they are all good size most r over 18 inches, i also catch huge bass on rattletraps some i can put my whole fist in there mouth they are good average size and bigger ..lol
Does anybody fish Marion? We fished French creek for 4 hrs and didn't have a bite. Somebody told us that the dam and the broken bridge you can catch some fish. Where are they at, and can you catch fish there, and what?
I'm interested in trying jugline fishing next Summer. Any suggestions on making "closed cell" floats? I'm assuming this means normal jugs are illegal.
Normal jugs can be filled with expanding styrofoam in a can. Swim noodles cut into pieces are good too.
Colorful "swim noodles" are what I would try. A 2-3 ft. length using live shiners would be a way to start. Someone who fishes the Ozarks might offer up the ideal cut length to use. Mid-May to early July would be the time to try in the bigger reservoirs. I wouldn't try using them in moving rivers because of the current and gar.
to above yes the dam and broken bridge at marion is good for crappie and sometimes white bass and wiper ...but they seem to be on the small side u can catch em on small jigs or live minnows ....fishin pal jer
Hey, does anyone know where walleye island is at cheney
No but I can tell you from experience the one with the most nightcrawlers wins. (walleye)
how am i suposed to catch walleyes with nightcrawlers if the white perch are just going to eat them all
The way to do it is to motor towards deep water in the dam area. If the walleye there make runs up the river there, you could check the river channel coming into the lake. Look for areas with sharp drop offs going deep. 24-40 ft. If the depths not there I wouldn't fish it but you never know. If you are seeing big pods of fish on the fish locator I would guess those as white perch, shad or crappie. If you're seeing sporadic fish showing up at 17-27ft along/slightly above the bottom I'd stop and lower/cast out a jig/crawler. If they are walleye drop anchor 50 ft away preferably with the wind to your back. You'll stay warmer and casting will be easier. Before picking up anchor cast out a cicada type bladed lure and work back to the boat, working it however you see fit but before lifting it up, lower it so that it's right off the bottom and don't move it. Wait 10-15 seconds before bringing it back up. Over time on the same lake you'll find places that produce walleye on sunny days with a south wind, sunny days with a north wind or days with little wind. Try to keep these places as close together as possible to save time and fuel. I can't remember using jig/crawler during the late fall with rainy, cold drisley weather with results but if I caught any it didn't amount to much. The reason for finding deep water is because it's about 10 degrees warmer on the bottom and with the clarity of the water the walleye really don't care for sunlight but a nightcrawler usually gets them interested in playing for a while. Use 4# line and keep in mind there are other lakes for walleye if the perch just ain't worth the hassle. Have a safe time on the water if you go.
Get yourself a topo map and start there. The walleye we've been getting at other lakes are shallower than 20' with 10' being consistent. The walleyes are going crazy RIGHT NOW and you're gonna have to look for YOUR fish, there ain't nobody gonna GPS their walleye spots for you, just give out a few hints. It takes time and experience to "get on the walleye" so go pay your dues, and when you find them you'll feel much better.
If these recent post's aren't motivating I don't know what would be. It appears going fishing where white perch aren't established is the thing to do. If Cheney was my only choice and the perch were ruining fishing with nightcrawlers I'd more than likely resort to a slip-bobber rig and cutbait. If the white perch are cannibalistic (hitting the cutbait) without walleye showing up I'd try the lit up areas at night (marinas) with a good size crankbait. Night fishing at this time of year makes one wonder if this is a right thing to do here in Kansas but some big walleye an be caught going into December if you're careful and dressed comfortably. With this rain we just received will bring the nightcrawlers up for a few days. A couple hundred worms are possible if it doesn't freeze in the next few days.
We are fishing lakes with white perch and they are not bothering us. We are fishing baits that emulate them and the walleyes are flat smacking them. We have caught some smaller "perch" and they have teeth marks on their tails.
Anyone catching anything at marion or cheney
I would like to know the boating rules on Sand Creek in Newton? trolling motor? does my jon boat need to be registered?
If I remember right you can use your boat without current year registration only if you use oars or paddles. Use of a trolling motor or outboard means you need proof of ownership or if recently bought a homemade bill of sale listing who you are and who you bought the boat from. If it was a freebee then put down 1 dollar. I got a notary public stamp the last time but that was over 10 years ago and may of not been necessary to do that. Seemed like the thing to do. Next, find a KDWP office and register your boat-(if you are going to use a motor). A 16 ft. or bigger you'll need a fire suppressor of some sorts. Any enclosed compartments-ditto. Don't forget to put a life jacket in the boat. If you choose the oar/paddle route, pick the oars. You'll get there faster and the fish won't spook as much. I never heard of Sand creek. A boat like that would come in handy during a white bass run if they run there. Just find the right bend/sand bar and tie off or anchor. These days there might be property taxes to pay if you own a boat. It might not be a statewide deal yet, though.
For boating regulations on Sand Creek in Newton, contact the city of Newton at http://www.newtonkansas.com/
Jessica
I checked with the Newton Police Dept. on the regulations of fishing from a boat in Sand Creek about 4-5 years ago. The regulations were read to me and they specifically stated that no engine or motor of any kind is allowed. Oars only. I don't know if there have been any recent changes, but I would doubt it.
Fishin' Pal Jer,
I'm getting stir crazy this Winter not fishing. So, I'm starting to plan some trips away from Wichita for the spring. I was wondering if you could share some info about that stream/river in Pratt that you was pulling Smallies and such out of. What I'm looking for is areas to fish, lure selection guidence, time of year I should be hitting that area for Smallies or Saugeye/Walleye, or what ever you was catching.
Thanks.
Andy
to andy.. that stream/river is on north side of pratt lake alls u need is small jigs with nighcrawlers or minnows ..when it gets warmer...but, i have heard of pratt co lake offering good crappie fishing through the ice ...and im thinkin about trying for pike through the ice at kingman lake if its safe enough....hope this helps some ...is anyone ice fishing anywhere yet ....please post reports here ...fishin pal jer
Ok i have a question for the game warden,
Here is my question.
When I go to a lake and catch my legal limit of fish and have them in my livewell and I leave the lake do I have to drain the water out of the livewell because of the fear of transporting zebra mussels accidently? If I am headed straight home to clean my legal catch of fish I can leave the lake water in my livewell to keep my fish fresh and alive until I process them at my house right? I understand that I can not take a livewell full of one lakes water and take it to another lake for fear of accidental transporting zebra mussel to another lake, but I can take lake water home in my livewell to keep my legal limit fresh for processing at home right? After I get home and process my fish I would dump the lake water out onto the ground at my house.
Thanks in advance for your reply,
A concerned Angler who does not want to get a ticket.
yes the sounds right to above , u can take fish home in livewell to keep fresh ..just make sure you clean livewell afterwards , even bilge pumps can get mussels in them also, before going to another lake so no accidental transporting of mussels occur ....good fishing ...
In response to the question posted 1/15/2011 8:19 PM.
All water should be drained from your boat before leaving the lake. It is illegal to transport zebra mussels in Kansas. Draining water from livewells will reduce the possibility that you are moving zebra mussels.
Fish can be kept fresh and the chance of spreading zebra mussels reduced by icing fish in a cooler for the ride home and draining all lake water from your livewells, bilge, and other water holding areas of your boat and equipment.
CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY Every lake...Every time.
Very good question!
For more info see pages 30 & 31 in the 2011 Kansas Fishing Regulations Summary or go to http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/news/Fishing/Aquatic-Nuisance-Species
So Andy has cabin fever- I can help a little bit. I see where you posted you reside in s.e. Wichita and you want a plan for springtime. First, assuming early trout fishing isn't your thing, I would start out in early March at Kingman right after iceout. Fish the warmest water and hide the hooks if natural bait is to be used. For early, early season channel cat in the Wichita city lakes- find the shallow flats that have the sun on them all day. I use small pieces of chicken liver starting 45 minutes before dark. I haven't read where you've fished for white bass. If you don't, you're really missing out. That goes for anybody for that matter, including myself. If the water level remains the same or rises towards the last week of March- 1st week of April at Toronto and/or Fall River reservoirs, start there. The main feeder river/creek is where to start. The whites run farther than most fishermen know so anywhere upstream can be a possibility if there is current for a run. If they're not flowing, don't fish them. I'll drive the country roads in Mar/early April and when I see the first white buds on roadside bushes, that reminds me to get it together immediately/soon if I want to catch white bass. Fishin' Pal Jer may be able to offer information about Marion reservoir or others close to you but fishing during a few white bass runs can be a life changer IMO. I started white bass fishing on the Neosho river right below John Redmond reservoir. That's an experience in itself there but I realize that may be a little far to go. Now is the time to be cleaning/respooling reels and pouring leadheads if equipped to do so. If you go for white bass an ample supply of mister twister shad bodied plastic or twisty tails are good enough. Use of a chain stringer seems the easiest for me and make sure the boots or waders don't have any holes in them.
Before I forget.... If you show up when everything points to the white bass are running and should hit but they don't, try this- drag the jig across the bottom without raising it up slowly. Find a snagfree area preferably right down the middle of the channel to do this. It means the white bass have just arrived, an influx of cold water has turned them off, or a coldfront has moved in. If regular or the above mentioned method of dragging the jig doesn't work, I'd say you're there to early or you need a higher water level. We could be talking about a few hours to a few days timewise or a 1/2 inch higher level of water. Here's an example on how to go about it. One week it'll be El Dorado and then the following week it'll be Council Grove, Marion, or the upper Neosho Rapids areas producing white bass. Two weeks later, it'll Tuttle Creek or Perry. Why, because southern Kansas will have warmer water than the northern part of the state for those not in the know because of latitude/longitude locations.
Cabin fever? Yes, as long as that cabin is no where near Ned Beatty and the Chattooga River. (Cahulawassee River in the movie)
I've been doing some things to stay busy. Getting a new spinning rod tomorrow and a spinning reel soon for my first Smallmouth expedition out in Pratt as soon as it warms up.
I've already stripped line off, re-organized tackle boxes, and started buying things for the new season. Mainly Smallmouth lures. Tubes, and such. I'm even going to take a Skitter Pop I have and repaint it, to try it out. Since Clown is hard to come by I think I'll try to replicate it. Or maybe go with a Red/White like some of the bigger Skitter Pops, and Zara Spooks I've seen.
I haven't fished for White Bass. It's something I've also been thinking about since I've picked up fishing again. Being a bank fisherman, in a place that your not too familiar with is tough sometimes. I'm glad I got some place to turn like this forum.
As far as "ice out" Never heard that term before moving out here. South Carolina lakes don't freeze. I'm anxious for everything to thaw so I can get back out there.
Does the streams and smaller rivers thaw before the lakes do? I've never had to deal with it before.
I'm thinking about selling one of my reels since I'm getting a new Spinning reel soon. It's a Shimano Citica 200D. Few nicks here and there, but operates smooth. Anyone want it, pipe up.
Thanks for the info.
And HURRY UP WARM WEATHER!!!!
I can relate to being at a place I'm not familiar with for fishing. I thought I knew a lot about fishing before I relocated to the Lower Keys of Florida for a year. Turns out I didn't know jack squat about fishing. That's just me though. But one can learn a lot in a years time, I surely did.
About the spring thawing of creeks and rivers- When they're frozen over it can be a long drawn out process waiting on them to melt. When the ice starts moving it will build up and slow thawing down if there's a log jam or a bridge abutment or two down stream towards the lake holding things up from flowing. The third week of March is when it's close to being melted here in n.e. Kansas most years, but where you're at it should be happening earlier. There have been times I was ready to fish the walleye run in upper rivers in March only to discover for myself that I'm here to early because of ice. Scouting around or phone calls can pay off in March sometimes before venturing out. If you can find open water on the shore of a lake with a lot of ice present, it can pay off to try the unfrozen/frozen edge areas depending if the wind is blowing into the ice and you need to really go fishing. Don't walk on the ice in those conditions.
Got a question for anyone with Eldorado Lake knowledge.
I was talking to a guy at Gander Mt. And he was telling me about smallie fishing at Eldorado. He was telling me about a place called "Fingers" from what I gathered it's like smaller rock jetties. He said near the dam. Since I'm not from here, nor have I even seen Eldorado (except from turnpike). I was wanting to know where he was talking about. He said that it's accessable on foot and is good place for bank fishing like I do.
Thanks
Andy,
"The Fingers" are located on the far western end of the dam. There is a boat ramp there and two the jetties/fingers serve as wave breakers for the ramp. There are three more 'piers' adjacent to the ramp. These extend out in to the lake and provide good rocky habitat for smallies (as well as other fishes).
The area is easily accessible by car and it is a very short walk to the 'fingers'.
Mr. Johnson,
Thanks for chiming in on this. Not being from Kansas is really difficult, since I know nothing about anything to do with this place. I will be heading that way as soon as the ice melts. Maybe try tossing a hair jig at them.
Thanks again.
Heck, Andy, that's probably what my great grandfather/grandmother said back in the 1860'-70's. Were they on their way to California during gold rush years? I don't know but they got as far as Meade county. What did they have for fishing? Probably nothing that would amount to much unless they went about it like Festus would on a Gunsmoke episode every once in a while. For your fishing you're trying to figure out- the more you go, the more you know.
That's so true. As soon as the ice melts I'll be heading out that way for some smallie action. Even if I come up empty handed, I still want to get out there and scope out for later in the season.
In South Carolina, I've always had a boat to fish from. Almost all the guys I fished with owned one. So it was easy to get out and get on submerged humps and such. Now I'm out here, I'm stuck on shore. So I'm trying to figure out where I can access and where I can't. I'd love to get a Kayak that I can use to just get out on the water a little bit. I don't own a truck, or anything I can pull a boat with. I can throw a Sit on Top yak ontop of my Subaru and take off. But that will have to wait.
I do have a question for one of the Biologists or someone more knowledgeable. Where would I go to keep tabs on the current water temp in Eldorado Lake?
Thanks
Here's something you can put into perspective however you see fit. I've noticed the when crappie show up shallow right before they start thier spawn, sometimes largemouth bass will be present ruining the crappie fishing. Usually around the last 10 days of April. I know smallmouth bass spawn before crappie and after white bass. Are smallmouth already spawned out and males guarding the nest when crappie move close? Probably, but how close are they to crappie that are close to the banks before May? One thing to keep in mind when fishing those finger areas at El Dorado or wherever is to fish the sides that have sun on them most of the day, particularly in April. When it's crappie spawn time in May, it's safe to assume the smallmouth have moved to feeding areas. Remember that if no smallmouth are present when you're trying to catch some. Those areas are close to where shad would be spawning about the same time as largemouth bass or slightly there after. Remember to fish the sun warmed areas from shore in April I guess is what I'm trying to say here.
Here's my recommendation for early ice out fishing- buy the state trout permit. This early in the season trout and channel catfish are your only options for the most part. If you find a place for catching both of those above mentioned species and they both actually hit your offerings, that will be a good start to the upcoming fishing season. You can do this everyday until you're tired of fishing and/or the freezer gets full. The trout can be found easier than the channel cat but channel cat will be real shallow. Towards the end of March the largemouth and/or smallmouth will start showing up shallow 1-3 ft. Nightcrawlers are a good bet for bait. Also for early spring crappie I've had success with a 1/32 or 1/16 lead head jig with a 1" to 1 1/2" piece of nightcrawler for a trailer. No need for plastic. It's a good presentation for quite a few early spring species now that I think about it. Andy- if you can't find the smallmouth after ice out, go for the trout and catfish or use the jig/crawler piece method for crappie at the fingers area at El Dorado.
The junction of where a feeder creek meets a river is a place to try early season fishing. Depending on the width of the creek/river area and temperature dictates how far from the river they'll be. In my opinion getting to a warmer place than the river is top priority for the fish after a cold winter. Then metabolism rises some and then the fish will take offerings. I use pieces of big minnows but lures might work. A sun warmed section of the feeder creek is where to try and the distance up the creek from the river/creek junction should be within 75 yards or less for starters. Look/find the first potential rest area from the river that you'd think the fish will use. It may be only 20 ft. from the river.
Jessica Mounts, I would really love to see a downloadable version of the fishing areas around Kansas for GPS devices (something similar to the hunting version that has WIHA for GPS). Thanks for any time spent on the issue, John S.
John,
I'm working on finding an answer for you on the GPS coordinates for fishing locations. I'm not sure if we have plans to do that or not - but I'll let you know as soon as I find out.
Jessica
Well the time is almost near for the Pre-Spawn run. I'm getting anxious!!! Even more so now that my beautiful wife suprised me with a NEW KAYAK!!!! Yep, you heard me right. Shore fisherman no more. ;) I got some cross bars coming for the Subaru, and then It will be sitting in my garage. ;) I can't wait.
Any other Kayak Fisherman roaming around here yet? I don't think there was any last time I mentioned it. I feel this is going to help me with my new found smallie addiction as well.
I picked up a Falcon Bucoo, and a Pflueger President Spinning Reel as well. So I'm about ready. I'm gonna do a custom paint job on a couple baits too.
For all the regulars, and the new people posting, how do you fish? Got a Motorized Bass Boat? 2 Man Bass boat with trolling motor? Canoe? Float Tube? Kayak?
Andy
I do all my fishing from the bank these days but I did spend a lot of time in a boat previous years learning quite a bit during the process. I found out that fish can be caught from the shore after learning when and where they are at from the boat. What I do miss the most these days is post spawn walleye in late May and June. I fished each season then on average 200 days, probably more. What I missed the most after I got a boat was catfishing lakes and rivers from shore. I didn't realize that until after I sold my boat. It sure was a relief not having to take care of that third child (boat) anymore.
18' Stratos Bass boat with 175hp Evinrude, only way for me to fish!! Can't cast far enough to get to the fish so I have to have a 10K+ dollar fishing boat!:) Well thats what I tell my wife...;) Back to a serious note, I fish 5-10 bass tournaments a summer, including several on Eldorado, and you have picked a great location to search out the smallies.
Good luck with the kayak, just watch the wind and boat traffic on Eldorado, as the weekends can get very BUSY there!
Yeah I bought a 16 ft Tracker last year and love it. I took my buddy and his 7 yr daughter to Cheney last year a couple days after Memorial Day and caught close to 30 walleyes between the three of us. We didn't catch any that were long enough but it was sure fun. Did end up with 4 whites and 1 crappie that were of size. Best part was watching his girl muscle in the 18 inch wiper on her Tigger pole.
You want quantity of quality smallies go to Wilson tons of 2-3 lbs, trophy capability go to Milford, I accidentally caught nice smallie at Milford while fishing the Walleye spawn about 8 years ago, I released her, but she was 4.5 lbs full of eggs and about 23". ElDorado is a close third in my opinion to the first 2, I've seen some decent ones caught but the fishing pressure on them is a lot higher there. There are a couple other good smallie lake around I think near Topeka and I think Glen Elder has some good ones, but I've just fished along the I70, I135, and 77 routes between Manhattan, Salina, and Wichita.
Anyone started in with Walleye Spawn catches yet? I've been sick and there has been Ice cover otherwise I usually start the first week of Feb and haven't been out yet. You don't have to say where, just wondering if there was anywhere turning on yet.
I got 2 fat hungry females at the lake yesterday with rapala minnow lures, horray!! the walleye season has begun! If you want to catch them be out early or late in the day. Also another time to go is on windy cloudy days any time. Good Luck!!!
Walleye Chaser
Where did you catch those 2 fat hungry females at? Walleye Chaser... I'm just catching lots of males that are to small to keep with my X-rap and numerous wipers.
Walleye fishing was outstanding last night on the Dam at Cheney. Only three other people were there and we all had our limit by 10:30. Sore feet but planning on going back tonight
clay ....I caught them at cheney lake on march 2nd.....I have not had much luck since...
walleye chaser
Right place right time Walleye Chaser. I ve been picking up a few on the upper end of Eldorado Lake. Ive got some pretty special spots.I'm going to hit it hard next week Temps are going to be nice
Question for the Cheney Lake Biologist. I hear people all the time say, that they have caught Stripers from Cheney. I know there are wipers in Cheney. Are they confused or am I missing something. Is KDWP stocking stripers in Cheney? Are this left over fish from previous years?
Stripers are in cheney and no many folk are not confused with the difference. Cheney has both and nice size of each. Stripers do get stocked every year at Cheney for they have very little reproduction on their own being a saltwater fish.
Andy... I just got myself a kayak so add me to fishing from a kayak. I do have a boat as well, but I took it out very little last year. Going out on my own and the places I fish I am thinking a kayak will be a nice addition. Less hauling costs and other issues. And some lakes really need some type of vessel to get to some prime fishing spots. But I have caught plenty of quality fish from most of the lakes around here from the shore. But yes very little if any other kayak fisherman out there. But those that do fish from a kayak elsewhere do love it!
Dominic,
That's great, we need to get together sometime. Maybe get a trip together in the works. I know it would make my wife more at ease with my safety. What yak did you end up getting? And where are you planning on going?
Jessica,
I'd provide you with more fishing reports if I could email them. Business hours aren't really that good of time for me to communicate, and I really hate phone calls anymore. Some bio's are on other blogs and others have somewhat reliable sources. But just posting them here can lead to other problems. There are many "calibers" or experience levels and it's just best to avoid these controversies.
I'd love to hear your fishing reports. You can email me at:
Jessica(dot)mounts(at)ksoutdoors(dot)com
Hello fellow kayak fishermen and shore fishermen, I'm curious as to whether I would be more productive at cheney for the spawning walleye from kayak or from shore. I just got a kayak for Christmas and have been out in it several times already. But I was wondering if casting x raps and 1/8oz. jigs from the shore would produce just as many fish along the dam as it would in the kayak? I'm new to walleye fishing and cheney has been too windy to kayak the last few times I've been by it.
Anon-
When the walleye are spawning along the dam at Cheney, personally, the best bet is to fish on the shore. They will roll right in front of you as you stand on the edge of the dam, so it's not like they're a far distance from you. Exciting stuff! I can't wait for the end of the week. I think it's gonna get real good out there! Good luck to all!
Stiped bass fingerlings have been stocked into Cheney three times in the last 10 years (50K in 2001, 100K in 2007, and 4.5K in 2009). Cheney doesn't have the deep water habitat it once had and stipers no longer thrive in the lake. As such, stripers are only stocked when our hatchery system has a surplus of fish. Wipers are much more hearty and fill a similar niche to striped bass in the lake. We sample very few striped bass, but anglers occasionally catch one, although a skinny wiper is very difficult to tell from a deep-bodied striper.
Keep trying for walleye Andy. During your pursuit of that species there will be many days of fishing for walleye that will make you wonder what it takes to be successful or what are you doing wrong. Then there will be the day when you finally connect with a walleye. It took me a good 3-4 months before I caught a walleye using tried and true walleye catching tactics. What I thought was a snag that day turned out to be a walleye. What a relief. Some short time afterwards I found that nightcrawlers presented in various ways was my ticket for walleye catching success. Others use jigs or crankbaits but using worms was the ticket for me. I haven't caught any over 6 pounds but I've caught several 4 pounders and 2 over 5 pounds. To tell you the truth I caught so many walleye I have become "burned out" on fishing for them but at the time I couldn't get enough going out pursuing them. Most will run from 16 to 19 inches but when you find them schooled up on the prowl the fishing can't be beat when they decide your offerings are "good enough".
Thanks "Anonymous". I surely will keep trying.
For anyone interested, Gander Mtn had some St Croix Triumphs, Premier, and 1 Avid 25% off. There was some Shimano Clarus and Gander Mtn GSX as well.
Jeff, Thank you for your answer on Striped Bass inm Cheney. It is what I expected. Seem like people should learn the difference. Though I will agree it is very difficult to tell the difference on a youg wiper. Continue the good work. You have a great fishery in Cheney.
Awesome Action on the Dam...Alot more Small Walleye this year than I ever remembered in the past.
What's the running lures on the dam? Jigs tipped? Cranks?
I just got done rigging some Rod Leashes on my kayak. Was gonna head out to Eldorado this morning but the wind was too much. And now this afternoon, the wind is down, its a beautiful day. And I have to bowl in 2 hours. :( Oh well, I'm gonna head out Sunday to try my hand at Eldorado's Smallie action. Got some hair jigs, tubes, select jerkbaits, and flukes. I just hope to catch one.
Hello all. I'm going to try the walleye fishing at Cheney and could use some help with where to park and get access to the dam. Are ther several parking areas? Would like as short a hiking distance as possible. Thanks
Go up 399th north of 32st street to the spill way parking lot. That is the area that everybody has been catching fish...Not much action after 9 p.m. though when that big moon shows up
I have a question for one of the Biologists. It pertains to Zebra Mussels. I understand why they are bad for waters that operate with power plants. But, other than that, why are they so frowned upon. As a fisherman, I see them as a savior kinda. They are the reason why Lake Erie is what it is today. One (if not THE) best fishery in North America. The benefits of water clarity for sight hunters are immense. Please shed a little more light on the subject for me.
I will continue to obey the "Drain, Wash, Dry" to help prevent the spread.
Thank you
Andy,
Since the discovery of zebra mussels at El Dorado in 2003 I've had conversations with anglers that once thought that zebra mussels would be beneficial to the reservoir...they quickly changed their minds as the zebra mussels reached their peak densities in 2006.
Through their filter feeding, zebra mussels can cause increases in water clarity but this clarity comes at the expense of the loss of food for young of the year sportfish and gizzard shad. Gizzard shad fuel the sportfisheries in our reservoirs. Without the gizzard shad populations of crappie, white bass, walleye, wiper, and others suffer. In short, zebra mussels disrupt the whole food chain by removing the 'biological soup' from the water column that usually nourishes young game fish and forage fish that our sportfish rely upon for food.
Spawning areas are disrupted by massive colonization of zebra mussel shells which can add to decreases in sportfish populations. Increases in water clarity have been shown to allow increased UV damage to developing fish eggs (this was in the Great Lakes region). Habitat quality can be compromised by heavy encrustation by zebra mussels. All of these conditions caused by zebra mussels create problems for the fish species that anglers pursue.
I've just touched the tip of the iceberg on the effects of zebra mussels on the Kansas angler. I didn't mention the negative impacts that zebra mussels have upon on our native mussel species, aesthetics, and other outdoors uses.
Feel free to check out the Aquatic Nuisance Species Page at the KDWP website at http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/news/Fishing/Aquatic-Nuisance-Species
Went to Marion yesterday and caught a good stringer of white bass. They're starting to head up the rivers. Biggest 1 was close to 3 lbs
Did some walleye fishing at Cheney today and I'm wondering what happened to the buoy marker where the "rock pile" is up in the north end to keep boaters from running into the shallow area?
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