Moodus Sportsmen's Club

State pheasant hunting in jeopardy

2012-02-17T10:54:00.001-05:00

Copied directly from Connecticut Sportsman's Coalition email newsletter:
This issue impacts Every Sportsman! A question I've been asked is "What's Next - Hatcheries?" COMMUNICATE! Most won't know what you want unless you tell them! Many won't know the basics of the program unless you inform them. There will be no Public Hearing on this issue. DO IT NOW- Communicate as you did on the License Fee Reduction issue. Be polite.

In the Governor's Midterm Budget Adjustments under DEEP p.67, the following statement is found: "Reduce Funding for Sportsmen's Programs - Funding is eliminated for the pheasant stocking program $ - 160,000."

After convincing the Legislature in 2010 that a 100% license fee increase would severely impact license/tag/permit sales/recruitment reducing revenue to both the state and DEP, we are now faced with presenting similar arguments. Someone, OPM (Office of Policy and Management), the Governor's Office, or budgetary officials clearly don't understand the funding, economic impact, and detrimental effect on licensing/recruitment of this proposal. In the opinion of many, the Elimination of the Pheasant Program action is a uninformed budgetary rip-off that benefits neither the state or its citizens.

The Pheasant Stocking Program is Sportsmen funded and is self sustaining - NOTHING comes from the General Fund. Elimination of the program saves the state nothing and in the future reduces revenue to DEEP through reduced license sales, and to the state in terms of economic impact. The methodology is to count revenue generated from Pheasant Stamps ($28) and Small Game licenses ($19/$11 Junior) from those who purchased the stamps to get a total revenue. This number then determines the number of Pheasants that will be stocked in the following year. The $160,000 to be cut is the revenue generated last year and constitutes the stocking program for 2012.

Pheasant Hunting is a Gateway Activity for new hunters. Youngsters and some adults (particularly women) who have completed the mandatory Hunter Safety Course and purchased their Small Game License (mandatory for All hunting) look for a hunting activity. Hunting on state Pheasant Program stocked lands is the least expensive and a traditional family activity for new hunters. Other species available in the past have been Rabbits, Grouse, and Woodcock, but are no longer due to state lack of funding for habitat management. The Pheasant Program is THE new hunter entry vehicle and is used as such in DEEP Junior Hunting Training Day to increase hunting participation.

The economic impact of eliminating Pheasant Hunting is substantial. ALL Resident hunters averaged 12.2 trips and nonresidents 3.0 trips in Connecticut. Pheasant hunters number 4000-5000. Based on 2010 hunting licensees, resident hunters undertook 770.0 thousand trips and nonresident hunters 9.8 thousand. Total Hunting expenditures in Connecticut are impressive at $109.3 million in 2010 dollars. http://www.ct.gov/dep/lib/dep/outdoor_recreation/2011economicimpactstudy.pdf Table 3.2.3. Using a few of the most common costs (in 1,000s $): Food and Lodging 2,801.5; Hunting Equipment 29,266.3; Transportation 5,365.5, with approximately 60,000 hunters in the state and dividing the totals by 4-5000, economic loss to retail sales is substantial.

It is imperative you write, call, e-mail your state Senator and Representative and all the members of the Appropriations Committee expressing your position. E-mail addresses for the complete Appropriations Committee can be found at http://www.ctsportsmen.com Under "Legislation". To find your legislators with their addresses, tel numbers, etc. go to "How to Find Your Legislators" on the Legislative page. Contact Gov. Malloy "Share Your Opinion" http://www.governor.ct.gov/malloy/cwp/view.asp?a=3998&q=479088 . Contact the Commissioner DEEP Dan Esty (860) 424-3001 and Deputy Commissioner Susan Frechette (860) 424-3005.

A different kind of ice fishing

2012-01-31T21:24:00.000-05:00

Gathering mussels under the ice, in Kangiqsujuaq, Quebec, Canada.

Closer to Moodus, Lake Champlain the liquid border between Northern New York and Vermont, has been ice-free from Crown Point to up by Rouses Point; and in Saskatchewan, only this

past Sunday [01/29/2012] a truck lost battle with the ice while trying to pull their fishing shanty off Last Mountain Lake.

A - Moodus, CT
B - Lake Champlain
C - Kangiqsujuaq, Québec, Canada
D - Last Mountain Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada

So, we are still figuring out what will happen on February 12th, but with warm weather again the rest of this week, the ice fishing derby does not seem promising.

Ice Fishing Derby again postponed ~ until February 12th

2012-01-26T06:11:00.003-05:00

IMAGE CREDIT: US Army Corp of Engineers - Might as well be Moodus reservoir

As you can see from the predicted weather posted below, there will be no ice this weekend. Therefore the ice fishing derby is postponed again to February 12th.

Wednesday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 25. Light north wind.

Thursday: A slight chance of rain after 3pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 42. Light north wind. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Thursday Night: Rain likely, mainly after 10pm. Cloudy, with a low around 34. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Friday: Rain likely, mainly before noon. Cloudy, with a high near 45. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Friday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 29.'

Saturday: Partly sunny, with a high near 41.

Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26.

Here is a revised schedule of events

January 28 - This Saturday - Squirrel hunting day? meet at the club at 7:30 and return by noon? or let Jim V know if you are in and show up at noon for lunch. Just one rule - if you hunt, you have to help clean the squirrels!
Lunch - venison chili, eggplant parmesan, beverages.
WHO IS IN ?- CALL JV OR THE CLUB THIS FRIDAY 5PM TO 7PM.

MSC Calendar for 2012 ~ 1st Quarter

2012-01-22T12:56:00.000-05:00

JANUARY

2 Monthly and Annual Board of Directors Meetings
14 Game Dinner 6:00 p.m.
22 Ice Fishing Derby Rain Date – Jan 29

FEBRUARY

5 Super Bowl Sunday
6 Monthly Meeting
11 Sat. & 12 Sun. NEW ICE FISHING DERBY DATE
18 Game Dinner 6:00 pm
25 Archery Course 8 am – 4 pm

MARCH

5 Monthly Meeting 10 Game Dinner 6:00 pm
23/24/25 DEP Hunter Safety Course
Fri. 6 pm – 9 pm, Sat. 8 am – 5 pm, Sun. 8 am - 2 pm

30 Project Graduation - Friday

APRIL

2 Monthly Meeting
7 Town Wide Clean Up
14Game Dinner - 6:00 pm - Annual Raffle
15Spring Work Party 9 am

Ice Fishing Postponed BUT Squirrel Hunt is on

2012-01-20T10:39:00.001-05:00

Ice Fishing Derby has been postponed to January 29th

Bashan Lake and Lake Hayward have just a skim coat on it now and tonight's snow will insulate the ice. Saturday's snow will further cover over what is safe & not safe. Get the word out to your friends and family.

Squirrel Hunting - Saturday am - If the snow starts according to NOAA then it looks like a good morning. Of course this is subject to change. We plan on going as long as the heavy snow starts after noon. If it is snowing hard at 6 am then the squirrels will sleep in.

We are cleaning game Friday night at the club - stop by or call if you are interested.

Tri-Lake Ice Fishing Tournament ~ Reset to January 29th

2012-01-09T09:42:00.001-05:00

Click on this and print or save to your computer. It must be MAILED TO our P O Box address for entry OR dropped off at the club before the Tournament date.

MSC's Annual Tri-Lakes
Ice Fishing Tournament
Sunday, January 22, 2012 :
6 am – 1 pm

Weather/Ice decision: 4:00 pm Saturday 1/21, please call 860-873-3381 to confirm || Rain / no ice date: January 29th

Tournament Sponsor Moodus Sportsman’s Club

Tournament Fee: $20.00 per adult || $5.00 per child under 16 years old

ALL ADULT PARTICIPANTS
MUST HAVE VALID CT FISHING LICENSE

LICENSE MUST BE PRESENTED TO RECEIVE AWARDS

Registration Forms:
• Available at the Moodus Package Store

• Right-click on the image to your right, save as a JPG file, print it, fill it out and mail it.

• Send an e-mail to MSC Webmaster who will e-mail a PDF document back to you that you can print out and mail to us ||

•   Snail Mail applications must be postmarked by Monday, January 16, 2012
•   Email applications must be received by Thursday, January 19, 2012
• Hand Deliver to the Sportsman’s Club Jan 21st 4-6pm

NO REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED AFTER 6 PM Saturday, January 21st

Locations:
      • Lake Hayward || East Haddam
      • Bashan Lake || East Haddam
      • Moodus Reservoir || Moodus ~ [You can still fish there, but see note below]

Verification: The official weigh-in will be held at the Moodus Sportsman’s Club at 1:10 pm sharp!

Party Festivities: The Moodus Sportsman’s Club will host one of it's famous lunches after the weigh-in [1:15 pm] with prizes and our usual activities to follow.

Tournament Finish: Please return to the Club by 1:00 pm for final tally, lunch and awards.

Regulations: Fish must conform to Connecticut fishing regulations for the area being fished
         • Click here for the CT DEP lakes regulations

CAUTION!!!!!!!!!!: The Moodus Sportsman’s Club does not represent that the ice is safe in all places on these lakes. All participants are responsible for their own personal safety.

NOTICE: Pay attention to the channel in the Moodus Reservoir.
With the lowering of the water level, certain areas may not be safe!.

D + D Tackle Shop opens up in Moodus

2011-05-28T08:50:00.004-04:00

Where: 102 Clark Gates Rd, Moodus, CT 06469
Date: May 28, 2011
Time: 7:00am–5:00pm

D + D carrys night crawlers, eels, shiners and sandworms. Also, light tackle. If you are looking for something specific-call us ahead of time!

On Saturday (that is today) they will be serving coffee and donuts to all of the patrons!

PARKING: Please remember ~ our parking area CANNOT accommodate BOATS - OR - TRAILERS. Come to the shop in advance to purchase bait for early morning trips. The bait is guaranteed to stay fresh and lively or it will be replaced-at no charge.

UPDATE : CANCEL MAY 21st - Fishing and Picnic this Saturday

2011-05-19T12:58:00.004-04:00

The river is running 30 time higher than normal; It's still raining. We can regrouup and reschedule at the next meeting, May 6th.

May 21st - Fishing Day and Members' Picnic

2011-05-14T09:41:00.005-04:00

At the last meeting May 21st was set asidefor a club fishing day with a picnic to follow. So far a dozen have signed up.

We were planning on going to the Salmon River for a mixed bag of fish - stripped bass, large mouth, catfish, bullhead, white & yellow perch, calico, and maybe another walleye. We can travel by boat and canoe.

Itinerary: meeting at the club at 6:30 am and heading to the boat launch at 7 am.
We still need a boat / canoe count.
We can catch both sides of low tide and get back to the club around 1 - 1:30 pm

If you are interested - let Jim V - guests welcome.

fishing derby CANCELLED

2011-01-29T10:25:00.002-05:00

The Annual MSC Tri-Lakes Ice Fishing Derby ~ which would have taken place tomorrow, January 30th ~ has been CANCELED due to lack of access to lakes AND uncertain conditions of ice underneath.

Believe me, we at the club are as disappointed as you [more, probably].

reading ~ magazines for sale

2011-01-21T10:54:00.008-05:00

It has come to our attention that Tylerville Country Market has begun stocking some titles on the magazine rack that may be of interest to members.

     The other day there were fresh editions of:
      • Petersen's Hunting
      • Field and Stream
      • Guns & Ammo

Mind you, other vendors, like Nathan Hale Pharmacy in Moodus, sell hunting, archery and shooting sport magazines as well. By the way, both stores have them stocked on the lower magazine shelves - a decision made by the 'zine distributors not the stores.

And don't assume that you can find what is printed in the magazine on the title's web-page. Increasingly, each offer things the other doesn't. The real point being, show these vendors your support. Go buy a copy of a magazine even if you already subscribe so they will keep them on the racks ...and our pastimes in the public eye.

game dinner ~ Saturday January 15

2011-01-12T08:58:00.013-05:00

There are some openings for this Saturday's game dinner.

A seven course gourmet dinner at a fast food price, only $35, wine or beer [or soft drinks] included.

This picture is a candied pear with pheasant in a flaky pastry crust, garnished with blue cheese; a sample for a past menu.

e-mail the MSC site maintainer ASAP to confirm availability.

UPDATE for MEMBERS: The parking area will not be plowed until late Friday morning. Unless you want to use snowshoes or skis, take this in mind before coming to the club for anything, including prep work for the Saturday night game dinner.

ice fishing derby - January 30, 2011

2010-12-26T09:46:00.024-05:00

CANCELLED
heavy snow | lack of lake access | uncertain ice conditions underneath

MSC's Annual Tri-Lakes
Ice Fishing Tournament
Sunday, January 22, 2012 :
6 am – 1 pm - New Date!!!!

Weather/Ice decision: 4:00 pm Saturday 1/21, please call 860-873-3381 to confirm || Rain / no ice date: February 6th

Tournament Sponsor Moodus Sportsman’s Club

Tournament Fee: $20.00 per adult || $5.00 per child under 16 years old

ALL ADULT PARTICIPANTS
MUST HAVE VALID CT FISHING LICENSE

LICENSE MUST BE PRESENTED TO RECEIVE AWARDS

• Click on the image to your right to enlarge, then you can print it, fill it out and mail it || Snail Mail applications must be postmarked by Monday, January 24, 2010

• Send an e-mail to MSC Webmaster who will e-mail an MS-Word [2003] document back to you ||   Email applications must be received by Thursday, January 27, 2010
• or at the Moodus Sportsman’s Club Jan 29th 4-6pm
NO REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED AFTER 6 PM Saturday, January 29th

Locations:
      • Lake Hayward || East Haddam
      • Bashan Lake || East Haddam
      • Moodus Reservoir || Moodus
        [You can still fish there, but see note below]

Verification: The official weigh-in will be held at the Moodus Sportsman’s Club at 1:10 pm sharp!

Party Festivities: The Moodus Sportsman’s Club will host one of it's famous lunches after the weigh-in [1:15 pm] with prizes and our usual activities to follow.

Tournament Finish: Please return to the Club by 1:00 pm for final tally, lunch and awards.

Regulations: Fish must conform to Connecticut fishing regulations for the area being fished
         • Click here for the CT DEP lakes regulations

about hunter safety courses at MSC

2010-12-26T05:47:00.020-05:00

We've been getting a number of questions from folks about being in the Connecticut Conservation Education/Firearms Safety courses that are offered and held on the MSC grounds every Spring and Autumn.
     In part, people are asking to sign up, but you ought to know that the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection [DEP] wants all sign ups be done through the local DEP office, not through the site where classes are held, like those held at our club. The closest offices to MSC are in Marlborough or Franklin. You could also sign up online once that option on the DEP site is opened again.
     The DEP provides - in advance - the names and contact information to the certified instructors holding the classes. At the MSC, all those certified to teach are MSC members.
     This "restriction" is really to help our instructors know how many are expected to attend. Good training works best when classes are a certain size; besides, we need to know how many copies of training manuals, targets, [and other handouts] will be needed. It's an important consideration.
     We try to figure some folks might just show up on the class day; but we cannot guarantee if you do this there will be room for you to attend. Folks signing up in advance, not walk-ins, will be given first priority.
     The DEP Hunter Safety Course Spring 2011 series dates to be held at the club for the Spring 2011 series are:

FEBRUARY: Wednesday 23rd, Thursday 24th, Friday 25th
MARCH: Thursday 3rd, Friday 4th and Sunday 6th

Our class series is usually filled. Be considerate and sign up in advance, and don't assume that we have kept a separate list; we don't. All of us do this because we are interested in helping others become knowledgeable, responsible hunters. And part of good hunting practice is planning ahead.
As of December 26, 2010] sign-up for classes is not yet available. Keep checking the CT-DEP website for when the classes will be posted. However, Pre-Registration for all classes is Mandatory. All firearms hunting courses are 16 hours or longer. You must attend all scheduled class times.

IMAGE SOURCE: Connecticut Department of Environmental Preservation

wildlife management ~ "Growing Deer"

2010-12-26T04:18:00.013-05:00

We recently stumbled upon a new website, Growing Deer TV. Describing it is perhaps best done by quoting the words of the site's principal speaker, Dr Grant Woods:

     GrowingDeer.tv’s mission is to provide current, useful information about hunting and growing white-tailed deer throughout the year. Each episode will show what we are focusing on that week as we manage properties for growing and hunting whitetail deer. GrowingDeer.tv episodes will include action packed hunts, proven hunting tactics, food plot and trail camera techniques, and the gear it takes to get it all done.
     GrowingDeer.tv is a creation of Dr. Grant Woods, a lifelong hunter with 20+ years of experience in managing whitetails throughout their range. Grant’s goal is to use this web site to provide real time information for men and women that are passionate about deer, deer hunting, and management programs. Grant loves to hunt turkeys also — so expect a few turkey episodes during the spring!
     Episodes are designed to help you resolve the common problems that are encountered while hunting or the daily tasks associated with improving your hunting property — real time — week to week with no repeats.
     You can keep updated between episodes by reading Grant’s blog, “Thoughts from the Field.” He will share some insights into his thoughts of the daily events that are of interest to folks that are passionate about hunting and wildlife management — everything from hunting, trapping, frustrations and blessings from weather patterns, all the way to how a change in legislation may affect hunter interests.
     All the content on the site is free of charge, paid for by the sponsors. So please support them as best you can. The GrowingDeer.tv Team looks forward to sharing current hunts and information with you!

hunting books for kids

2010-12-19T23:32:00.011-05:00

It may be too late to order these books and have them by Christmas, but it's never too soon to get youngsters interested in hunting and the outdoors. I'm also glad to see that books like this are available.

My First Deer Hunt by Curtis and Michael Waguespack. A photo book where a boy goes out hunting with Dad, learns how not to scare off the deer and gets to see what it's like. Available through Amazon.com, Charting Nature and other booksellers.

Shawn Meyers' Hunt with a Kid website offers two titles, Conner's Big Hunt and Conner's Spring Gobbler. The illustration artwork, by Reed Sprunger, in both these books is superb! Also available through Amazon.com.

Also available at Amazon.com is Will's First Hunt by Kerri Busteed with illustrations by Leon Byers. It's been said that this book "...is a fabulous introduction to the world of Hunter's Safety and all that it entails...[and] that it opens the door to speak to our own children about the importance of guns, gun safety and hunting. This story is easily relatable to hunting and non-hunting families alike".

Even if you aren't certain your kids [or grandchildren, or nephews and nieces] are interested in hunting, getting them to learn about outdoor sports when they are young, is worth the effort.

basic trapping video

2010-12-19T23:01:00.006-05:00

This video appears to be made to show a youngster how to make a snare trap for small game. It is also useful to show a youngster [...or another interested adult, for that matter] things to be aware of when placing a trap, and other tips as well.

VIDEO CREDIT: Ryan J. Cus. Ryan produces other interesting videos as well, including basic knot techniques. Of his efforts, he says: "You can watch as many videos as you want about survival skills, but I can't stress enough the importance of practicing those skills."

ice fishing blues

2010-09-27T10:15:00.002-04:00

From the Bluesberry Jam, performed at our annual Summer Harvest Picnic, held at the Club's grounds near Moodus reservoir.

September 18 - Harvest Feast

2010-09-08T07:47:00.010-04:00

It's that time again!

Summer Harvest Picnic
September 18, 2010 ~ rain or shine
4:00 to 6:00 pm

Donations: Adults - $15; Seniors - $13; Kids under 12 - $6

A rich repast of grilled chicken, pork, venison chili, clams and chowder, salads, desserts along with good company and entertaining activities

Tickets available from any member or at the Moodus Package Store

Autumn Hunting Seasons near

2010-09-06T09:07:00.006-04:00

Deer archery and turkey bow hunting season will be here sooner that you think.

In Connecticut, bow/archery season starts on the
15th of September.

Depending on whether you hunt in the north [9/1/10] or south [9/15/10] zone, the September hunt period for Canada Geese may have started already.

Check the charts.

A NOTE TO LANDOWNERS: Hunters appreciate when you offer permission to hunt on your land, but an oral agreement is not sufficient. If you are allowing someone to harvest those nuisance deer gobbling your landscape, please give us a note in writing. We have to carry it with us. Thanks.

Lost Dog

2010-08-19T01:16:00.003-04:00

UPDATE: The pup was found and returned home safely.

About MSC Club Rentals

2010-08-03T10:43:00.001-04:00

Any rental must be sponsored by a club member!
The sponsoring club member must be present at the event. No exceptions.

     We have so many weekends reserved, the dates listed here are those that are available.
     • August 15th / Sunday
     • September 4th / Saturday
     • October 30th / Saturday
        pending Oct 9th, 23rd

LISTINGS
SUBJECT TO CHANGE

ALL Sundays from September 2010 thru March 2011 are booked

Any reservation date MUST be cleared by Nic in advance. [Don't start inviting folks until you know the club is available.] Nic keeps track of the scheduling.

Animal Tracks

2010-08-03T10:40:00.003-04:00

Fall Fishing Trip?

2010-08-03T10:11:00.006-04:00

At August's meeting Dave raised the question of renting a charter fishing trip on the Long Island sound.

Talk was enthusiastic.

But what is needed are commitments to sign up.

Stay in touch with Dave and let him know if you want to be on the trip.

Details to follow as I get them. Watch here for them.

IMAGE CREDIT: hot pepper fishing charters

2010 Fall Skeet League

2010-08-03T09:18:00.009-04:00

Fall Skeet League shall begin on Sunday, September 12th. Opening rounds start at 9 a.m.

The cost is $35 for the season, or $5 per round. This covers the cost of the clays only. Participants are expected to bring their own firearms and shells. [Yeah, this might seem obvious but last year one person seemed surprised]

Non-members may participate if accompanied by a member. The fee for participation is the same.

Hunter Safety Course

The DEP Hunter Safety Course starts on 22nd September, a Wednesday. Anyone wising to enroll must do so through the DEP regional office in Franklin, CT.

FRANKLIN WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA - 391 Route 32, North Franklin
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. | Phone: (860) 642-7239

Pre-Registration is Mandatory. All firearms hunting courses are 16 hours or longer. You must attend all scheduled class times.

everyday life - towing

2010-06-28T10:54:00.004-04:00

When your car breaks down and it has to be towed in for repair, the event can be immensely frustrating. So how frustrating is this? the tow truck that needs a tow after pickup up a couple of clunkers?

2010-06-27T23:53:00.001-04:00

Shad Bake - June 27 - starts at noon

2010-05-30T14:41:00.008-04:00

Plank baked shad, bluefish and other goodies at out annual spring Shad Bake. Sunday, June 27th.

Advance tickets available from any club member or at the Moodus Package Store.

Adults: $18 / $20 at the gate
Children under 12; $5 / $6 at the gate
Seniors: $15 / $17 at the gate

EVENT HELD RAIN OR SHINE

We have plenty of space under the pavilion and inside the clubhouse.

Horseshoes, fishing at the pond for the kids (bring your own equipment), good company and more!

PARKING: Pay attention to the parking guides. This is a popular event; overflow parking may be at the town beach in a designated area.

NOTE: The range will be closed that Sunday.

May 2nd - Chidren's Fishing Derby

2010-03-27T14:13:00.004-04:00

Sunday, May 2 : Children's Fishing Derby ~ 8:00 A.M. UNTIL NOON.
Open for all children ages 12 and under ~ accompanied by an adult.

The Club is located on the ridge above the south part of the Moodus Reservoir, and you can enjoy one of the finest scenic vistas in town.

This is a free event. Bring your kids, your grandchildren or your nephews and nieces. A great opportunity to find out how to do things hands-on, away from video games, TV and the stuffy indoors. A good time to get out and enjoy the outdoors.

Come fish in our trout-stocked pond. Tired of fishing? You can hike on the trail up from the pond and roam the woods; or bring your sketch pad or camera and save nature on paper, film or digital upload.

The event is fun for the grown-ups as well.

Afterward, hot dogs and soda for the children.

The Moodus Sportsmens' Club is located on 299 East Haddam-Colchester Turnpike, just uphill from the East Haddam Town Beach and the Moodus Reservoir causeway.

April 3rd: Town Wide Clean-up - Picnic to Follow

2010-03-22T00:08:00.011-04:00

Saturday, April 3 : Town Wide Clean-up ~ Tired of seeing that rotting mattress on the back road from Norwich? ...or the smashed up computer monitor in front of the old town landfill on Route 151?
     The Moodus Sportsmen’s Club, and the East Haddam Scout Troops are sponsoring the Annual East Haddam Town Wide Clean Up Day to be held on Saturday, April 3, 2010. The goal of these organizations is to coordinate an annual effort to pick up the streets, lakes, streams, and other public access areas in the Town of East Haddam. Would your organization or individuals in your organization be willing to participate? We are still in search of families and groups to pick up sections of the streets in which they live on. Is there a section of town that you or your group would like to take over the stewardship? Could you and your neighbors adopt a street?
     The Sportsmen’s Club members will concentrate on State and Town boat launches and Babcock Wildlife Management Area. The Scouts will be working on Rte 82 from the East Haddam swing bridge to River Road. East Haddam Scout Troops have also been contacted to assist in picking up these other designated areas.
     Pickup starts at 8:00 a.m. If you wish to join our groups, meets us at the East Haddam Town Hall on Town Street at 8:00 a.m. or start from your own street.
     Lunch starts at noon at the Moodus Sportsmen's Club. Traditional picnic items such as hot-dogs, baked beans, coffee and iced tea and lemonade will be served along with the seasonal bounty only a sportsmen’s club could serve.
     We can inventory the items collected and talk about ways to reduce these problems. We'll also have educational information about the Town’s natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities.

PHOTOS: Recycling containers in Eagle Lake, Maine; Litter piles in another town.

game dinner repast

2010-03-14T15:14:00.006-04:00

Another sold out event, even with pouring rains coming down. The beaver stew was excellent, as was the oriental venison kabobs; for that matter, everything was fine - our chefs have out done themselves again!

saltwater fishing rules - news item of interest

2010-03-10T11:37:00.007-05:00

Public input period for federal fishery strategy has ended. Robert Montgomery writes at ESPN Outdoors that:

"The Obama administration will accept no more public input for a federal strategy that could prohibit U.S. citizens from fishing some of the nation's oceans, coastal areas, Great Lakes, and even inland waters."

"Some of the potential policy implications of this interim framework have the potential to be a real threat to recreational anglers who not only contribute billions of dollars to the economy and millions of dollars in tax revenues to support fisheries conservation, but who are also the backbone of the American fish and wildlife conservation ethic," said CSF President Jeff Crane.

Morlock, a member of the CSF board, added, "There are over one million jobs in America supported coast to coast by recreational fishing. The task force has not included any accountability requirements in their reports for evaluating or mitigating how the new policies they are drafting will impact the fishing industry or related economies.

"Given that the scope of this process appears to include a new set of policies for all coastal and inland waters of the United States, the omission of economic considerations is inexcusable."

For a complete list of articles about this topic: see the ESPN outdoors archives

IMAGE CREDIT: ESPN Outdoors, in an article by Robert Montgomery.

Special Member Notices

2010-02-27T10:37:00.011-05:00

Just a reminder to members, the special legal fee assessment of $150 is due this coming meeting. If you are unable to attend the meeting, get in touch with one of the club officers in advance.

Members who have reservations for the March 13th game dinner should confirm your numbers. We look to be sold out again this month. If you are planning on attending the April Game buffet, it will help if you can give Jim V your estimated count for that event, too. Make sure that Jim has written down your reservation numbers; don't leave them on voice mail.

Finally, the Spring Hunter Safety and Archery courses begin this week. You do not need to be a member to participate in this class. Now's a good time to get your kids signed up. Anyone who is interested must sign up through the Department of Environmental Conservation website.

Humor

2010-02-26T22:28:00.006-05:00

Okay. What's amiss with this situation? Was the deer tagged? Is it road kill? Is it dressed out? I don't see the guy's license. Where's his bow or rifle? Anything else?

Connecticut DEP Deer & Bowhunting Surveys

2010-02-26T12:24:00.006-05:00

A message from the CT DEP to all Connecticut Deer and Bowhunters:

This is a reminder for you to respond to the 2010 January Bowhunter Survey. If you have already completed the survey, you can ignore this message.

If you have not completed a survey, please do so at your earliest convenience. Your input is important.

You should complete the survey even if you did not hunt deer this January.

While doing surveys, If you bought a deer hunting permit in 2009, please complete the survey about your 2009 deer hunting activity. The survey will only take a few minutes to complete and will help with the management of Connecticut's deer population. To take the survey, you will need to enter your Connecticut Conservation ID number that is printed on your license. Take the 2009 Deer Hunting Survey Now

You will need to know your Connecticut Conservation ID Number to complete the survey. Your Conservation ID Number is printed on your license.

If you have any questions about either of the surveys, you can contact the Deer Program at 860-642-7239 on weekdays between 8:30am and 4:00pm. The DEP thanks you for your time and input.

Information provided by: Howard J. Kilpatrick, Deer Program Biologist
DEP - Wildlife Division; Connecticut DEP Hunting and Trapping Website: www.ct.gov/dep/hunting

laws + legislation

2010-02-11T09:12:00.006-05:00

Click here for details on the Hunting License cost bill.

When contacting your legislator, make sure to refer to proposed bill #115, which is before the Environment Committee.

Don't be a target, be ON target

OTHER BILLS OF INTEREST:
S.B. No. 26 AN ACT CONCERNING THE EXPENDITURES OF THE BOATING ACCOUNT. Sen. John McKinney, 28th Dist., Rep. Lawrence F. Cafero, 142nd Dist. To implement the Governor's budget recommendations. REF: Finance, Revenue and Bonding. OPPOSE. Eliminates the Boating Fund.

Proposed S.B. No. 82 AN ACT REPEALING INCREASES IN HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSE FEES. Sen. John A. Kissel, 7th Dist. To repeal the increase in hunting and fishing license fees that is part of the recently enacted state budget. REF: Environment.

Proposed S.B. No. 115 AN ACT REDUCING THE RECENT INCREASE IN HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSE FEES AND INCREASING CERTAIN MOTOR VEHICLE FEES. SEN. STILLMAN, 20th DIST. To reduce the recent increase in hunting and fishing license fees and offset the reduction in such revenues with an increase in certain motor vehicle fees. REF. ENVIRONMENT. SUPPORT.

Proposed H.B. No. 5080 AN ACT CONCERNING THE INCREASE IN HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSE FEES. Rep. Penny Bacchiochi, 52nd Dist. To reduce the increase in hunting and fishing license fees that was made in the current state budget. REF: Environment. SUPPORT.

Proposed H.B. No. 5038 AN ACT CONCERNING SPORTSMEN AND CAMPING FEES. Rep. Bryan Hurlburt, 53rd Dist. To reduce the recent increase in hunting, fishing and camping fees. REF: Environment. SUPPORT.

Thanks to Robert Crook, at the Coalition of Connecticut Sportsmen

Ice Fishing Derby Winners

2010-02-11T09:03:00.003-05:00

Winners:
Largest Fish:
1st place James Bohara, Pickerel, Moodus Reservoir, 5.39 pounds $600
2nd place: Rich Urban; Largemouth Bass, Moodus Res; 4.25 lbs $200
3rd place: Mike Wrobel, Yellow Perch, Lake Heyward, 1.19 lbs $200

Junior winners - received trophys
Austin Urban: Bass, Moodus Res, 3.75 lbs
Cameron Gonzales, Bashan Lake, 1.60 lbs
Chris Czekala, Perch, 1.34 lbs

Ice Fishing Day

2010-02-07T07:42:00.002-05:00

You should be signed up by now. We'll see you around weigh-in time.

Coming Up: February 7th

2010-02-01T10:22:00.006-05:00

Get ready folks. We have the Ice Fishing Derby in the first part of the day, and Super Bowl on the big screen later on. Pot luck will feed us fine. More to follow

IMAGE CREDITS: 1- The Super Bowl official logo; 2- Yukon Historical Fishing Gallery, Ice fishing, ca. 1930's. (YA, Claude B. Tidd Coll., #7298); a service of the Canadian Government, Oceans, Habitat and Enhancement Branch.

Doubled hunting fees causes more problems; yet solves none

2010-01-30T09:16:00.009-05:00

Friday's Hartford Courant had a thoughtful article in it by Dale May, certified wildlife biologist, recently retired from state service with the DEP. In it he says:

"...the changes affect sportsmen most directly, [and] the public should understand that license and permit fees paid by recreational fishermen and hunters, in combination with federal excise taxes they also pay, represent nearly all of the revenue devoted to Connecticut's fish and wildlife, including non-game species. For nearly a century, this user-pay model has been enormously successful in generating predictable annual budgets that have been used to restore and manage our wildlife.
"The public should understand that license and permit fees paid by recreational fishermen and hunters, represent nearly all of the revenue devoted to Connecticut's fish and wildlife, including non-game species".
"In the face of an aging sportsmen demographic and broadening wildlife-related mandates, state and federal initiatives have been underway for nearly two decades to expand and strengthen the model by including other constituency groups. Less than a handful of states, however, successfully direct other sources of funding to wildlife — and Connecticut is not one of them. With the gloomy fiscal forecast, it appears Connecticut's wildlife will depend almost solely upon sportsmen for the foreseeable future.

"So, now is not the time to discourage hunting and fishing in Connecticut. Given the budget crisis, most sportsmen would have accepted (albeit unhappily) a fee increase of 20 percent to 25 percent. The 100 percent increase, however, is indefensible. [You can find the complete article here]

Seems he's being immensely diplomatic, while our politicians chose not to be. Now there is an effort being put forward to correct this rank injustice. Contact the governor's office as well as your local legislator [even if he or she is not in favor of hunting] and make your voice heard on this important matter. [here's a set of guidelines on speaking before the legislature.

Don't know your local state representatives? Fird them here.

IMAGE CREDITS: 1- How Stuff Works, with an entry about hunting licenses, special regulations, poaching, and other hunting lore; 2- Terrirman's Daily Dose, the image was used there to a link where one can purchase hunting licenses for most of the lower 48 states.

Fish Derby re-set to February 7th

2010-01-29T12:32:00.009-05:00

Bad news folks. We checked the ice this morning and while it is - sort of - walkable in places, it isn't really safe enough to hold the event this week-end.

So we plan on having in next Sunday, February 7th, 2010 instead. This means that the NEW deadline for turning in your entry application at the club [299 East Haddam-Old Colchester Turnpike, Moodus, CT] is next week, Saturday, February 6th between 4 to 6 pm. OR by e-mail to Will by Saturday morning.

By the way, we plan on coming back later on for the Super Bowl Sunday afternoon/evening.

IMAGE CREDIT: New York Times, in an article about what happens when the ice becomes unstable.

MSC Upcoming Events

2010-01-22T08:57:00.009-05:00

#1 - Ice Fishing Derby Sunday Jan. 31st Sign up by Saturday 4-6pm at the club.
Ice Fishing Derby Rain Date – Feb 7

#2. Sausage making - ordering pork & spices on Monday - 1/25, cutting & spicing Friday pm 1/29, Sausage making 1/30. If you have not contacted JV and are still interested - let him know!

#3. Game Dinners - Feb 20, March 13, maybe April 17
a. We have collected additional waterfowl so with a few more squirrels and a few hind quarter, we may be able to make a run at an April game dinner - squirrel season is open until Feb 27th.

b. Reservation - JV will be calling the people who have typically reserved spots in the past before the Feb meeting. Get your ducks in a row.

#4. Smelt trip - Feb 13th & 14th If you are still interested - let JV know

#5. Word is the cod fishing has been hot and heavy in R.I. Take a look at http://www.francesfleet.com/inshore.html Is anyone interested?

#6 Super Bowl - Feb 7th Jets? Colts? / Saints? Vikings? What does a Giants or Pats fan do? At least the Cowboys are out! Potluck dinner - details to be ironed out at the Feb meeting.

#7 Hunter Safety or Bow Course - sign up now!

IMAGE CREDITS (1) The Food Museum, (2) Bucks County [PA] Courier Times

Game Dinner openings - January 16

2010-01-10T10:43:00.005-05:00

We still have 30 spots to fill. The date is this coming Saturday. Please remember we are not having an April Game Dinner this year so if you usually attended that one, you need to reschedule.

Please email Jim Ventres or leave him a message on his voice mail at 860-873- 8581 to fill out the spots.

2010 MSC calendar of activities

2010-01-05T11:52:00.003-05:00

Members ~ and others interested ~ can now check our 2010 yearly calendar of events. It's located toward the bottom of the column on the right side of this page/screen

ice fishing tournament : January 31, 2010

2010-01-05T08:58:00.023-05:00

MSC's Annual Tri-Lake Ice Fishing Tournament
Sunday, January 31, 2010 : 6 am – 1 pm - New Date!!!!
_______________________________

Weather/Ice decision: 4:00 pm Saturday 1/30, please call 860-873-3381 to confirm || Rain / no ice date: February 7th

Tournament Sponsor Moodus Sportsman’s Club

Tournament Fee: $20.00 per adult || $5.00 per child under 16 years old

ALL ADULT PARTICIPANTS
MUST HAVE VALID CT FISHING LICENSE

Prize Fish Types: Bass – Largemouth/Smallmouth, Chain Pickerel or Yellow Perch

Prizes: Adult Division $1000.00 total purse; First Prize $600.00 for heaviest fish of the three species || $200.00 each to the largest fish in the two other species listed
       Children Division Trophies to be awarded in all three categories

Registration Forms:
• Available at the Moodus Package Store,
• Click on the image to your left to enlarge, then you can print it, fill it out and mail it ||   Snail Mail applications must be postmarked by Monday, January 25, 2010
• Send an e-mail to MSC Webmaster who will e-mail an MS-Word [2003] document back to you ||   Email applications must be received by Friday, January 29, 2010
• or at the Moodus Sportsman’s Club Jan 30th 4-6pm
NO REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED AFTER 6 PM Saturday, January 30th

Locations:
      • Lake Hayward || East Haddam
      • Bashan Lake || East Haddam
      • Moodus Reservoir || Moodus

Verification: The official weigh-in will be held at the Moodus Sportsman’s Club at 1:10 pm sharp!

Party Festivities: The Moodus Sportsman’s Club will host one of it's famous lunches after the weigh-in [1:15 pm] with prizes and our usual activities to follow.

Tournament Finish: Please return to the Club by 1:00 pm for final tally, lunch and awards.

Regulations: Fish must conform to Connecticut fishing regulations for the area being fished
         • Click here for the CT DEP lakes regulations

CAUTION!!!!!!!!!!: The Moodus Sportsman’s Club does not represent that the ice is safe in all places on these lakes. All participants are responsible for their own personal safety.

trapping / litigation

2009-11-14T09:57:00.009-05:00

The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation reports the following updates on legislation affecting trapping:
•   Maine Trappers Win Major Court Victory - Federal District Court upheld the state’s trapping practices and blocked the establishment of a precedent that could be used by anti-hunting and anti-trapping groups nationwide.
     In 2008, the Animal Welfare Institute and the Wildlife Alliance of Maine filed a lawsuit against the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (DIFW) seeking a permanent injunction that would have essentially prohibited trapping in the state. The lawsuit claimed that Maine’s trapping regulations violated the Endangered Species Act (ESA) because Canada lynx, a threatened species under the ESA, could be incidentally caught in traps causing “irreparable harm” to the population.
     Throughout the case, the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation (USSAF), along with the Maine Trappers’ Association, Fur Takers of America, National Trappers’ Association, and several individual sportsmen, argued that the anti-trapping plaintiffs had to show that Maine’s trapping practices were a threat to the Canada lynx population as a whole. The plaintiffs insisted that harm to one individual lynx was sufficient for the Court to prohibit trapping in the state.
     On November 10th, Federal District Court Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. ruled that Maine’s trapping practices did not irreparably harm the Canada lynx and denied the injunction sought by the anti-trappers. Further, the Judge agreed with the state and the USSAF that “irreparable harm” is harm to a species as a whole and not simply one individual member.
     “Although the plaintiffs may appeal the ruling, the Federal Court’s decision is a monumental victory for the trappers in Maine and sets an excellent precedent that will make it harder for the antis to misuse the ESA in their attempts to ban hunting and trapping in other states,” states USSAF Vice President for Government Affairs Rob Sexton.
     “We knew the evidence was on our side and are thrilled with outcome,” said Skip Trask, executive director of the Maine Trappers Association. “The USSAF’s legal assistance was invaluable to the favorable outcome.”
     Chick Andres, President of the Fur Takers of America commented, “Trappers nationwide should be grateful that the court saw through what the anti’s were trying to do.”
     In 2008 the USSAF’s legal arm, the U.S. Sportsmen’s Legal Defense Fund, was granted permission to intervene in the lawsuit. The case came on the heels of similar case, also in Maine, that was settled in late 2007 when the DIFW agreed to restrict trap sizes in areas where Canada lynx exist.

•   Massachusetts Pro-Trapping Bill - In July Massachusetts House Bill 736 made it over the first BIG HURDLE it made it out of committee, FAVORABLY. This is the first time for a very long time a significant trapping bill has made it out of the Joint Committee on the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture. It can help put Massachusetts back on track to responsible wildlife management.
     This bill will allow the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MDFW) to regulate and allow for use during the established furbearer harvest seasons certain live restraint and “quick kill’ devices that adhere to internationally developed ”Best Management Practices (BMPs). These BMPs have been developed over years of field and laboratory testing under the auspices of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies (AFWA).
     The Original bill HB736 "Protecting our Natural Resources" (NOW HB4172), currently in the House Ways and Means Committee, has been amended to a point where it will not effectively, proactively address beaver, fox or coyote population management and aid in the reduction, or provide a timely proper reaction to wildlife attack. The amended bill is a simply a bureaucratic nightmare and continuation of unreasonable restrictions. Herb Bergquist resides in Shelburne, MA and is president of a new conservation organization here in Massachusetts called the "Committee for Responsible Wildlife Management". As a group, we are extremely concerned about the rising incidence of animal/human conflicts and attacks going on across the Commonwealth.
     Ever since 1996, when the Question One Ballot Initiative took away the ability to proactively manage our wildlife populations using the most effective devices available; beaver, coyote, fox and raccoon populations have increased dramatically... creating the foundation for much of the issues we are seeing today. Current trapping laws in Massachusetts are excessively restrictive and do not allow for the use of the most advanced, effective, and safe devices by licensed and trained individuals. CCS urges ALL MA sportsmen to visit this website and communicate with legislators in support of the original bill.

THANKS TO Robert Crook's newsletter list for providing the links; PHOTO CREDITS (1) Dead Creek Outfitters, (2) Fernando Urrutia

work party ~ sunday 11 october

2009-10-06T03:53:00.005-04:00

     Come on... it'll be fun! Lots of things to get done are finished faster with many hands.
     Check the list on the back of this month's meeting agenda sheet; then come volunteer for a task that suits you best ...or to dig into something that no one wants to do but has to be done anyway.
     In the unlikely possibility you don't know where we are meeting, it's at the Moodus Sportsman's Club grounds. Start after skeet league.
     Football junkies don’t panic – The Giants are playing Oakland at 1 pm - Pats are on at 4 pm so the second half is workable, and the Jets play on Monday [so great to have that big screen handy].
     We can probably even rustle up something tasty to eat!
     So whether you can cut down some overhanging saplings [don't forget your chain saw], plant new trees in the property buffer area, or finally be the one to make a cheat sheet for all the remote control devices, there's still enough time for making the work load seem like a party.
     See you there on Sunday after skeet league.

migratory bird hunting season

2009-09-12T10:21:00.008-04:00

Now is the time to go after all those resident Canada geese. Last week the Connecticut DEP released the new regulations:

The September Canada goose season will be held in the North Zone (portion of the state north of Interstate 95) from September 8 - 30, 2009. The season in the South Zone (portion of the state south of Interstate 95) will run from September 15 - 30, 2009. The daily bag limit remains at 15 geese. A new change for 2009 is the allowance of unplugged shotguns during the September goose season only. This should result in greater harvest of resident geese.

For more info check out the Connecticut DEP website: Fall 2009 Migratory Bird Hunt Regulations

upcoming events

2009-04-17T10:34:00.011-04:00

• 18 April/Saturday : Fishing Season begins in Connecticut. You can get your license online at the DEP Fishing license web link. Please note the link will tell you other places where you can buy a license as well. You'll also be able to download a copy of the 2009 Angler's Guide.
NOTICE! DEP staff will be stocking at various Trout Parks on opening day. People are encouraged to join them. A great way to introduce your children to outdoor activities.

• 18 April/Saturday : MSC April Game Dinner. We'll start serving at 6:00 pm [1800 hours] but you want to get there earlier to get your seat and meet and greet one another. As of 10 a.m. today, a couple of seats have opened up. But you want to be quick about it. Call us at the club [the phone number is on the right] but be quick about it.

• 22 April/Wednesday : 1st Annual Sportsmen’s Day, Connecticut State Capitol Building, Hartford. 1030 am to 500 pm. Connecticut’s sportsmen spend $339 million a year on their recreation, which helps support 5,500 jobs in the state [Why else would Cabela’s open a retail store in the middle of our state?]. The event will be hosted by the Connecticut Sportsmen’s Caucus. Caucus members include state Senator Eileen Daily and Representative Linda Orange.

• 26 April/Sunday : Major Work Party. Members especially, but anybody who wants to join us for wood splitting, scrape-and-paint, improving the target range backstop and other work around the club are welcome.

• 3 May/Sunday : Children's Fishing Derby, at the pond, which has been stocked again. - 4 cooks needed, 4 pond monitors needed - 7:30 am to 12:30 pm

• 28 June/Sunday : The Shad Bake. Our annual spring festival. Come hungry, you won't leave hungry.

laws and legislation

2009-04-17T08:46:00.020-04:00

Don't be the target, be on target!
Your legislators need to hear from you regularly!

On the downside: the effort to ban leg hold traps is still alive and active. On the up: saving trapping has positive economic benefits to the state

In Haverhill, Massachusetts, a sewage pipe sustained damage as trees fell on a beaver dam, causing it to collapse. [Ron Trainor, KC8CEV, Photo]

Thanks to some deceptive emotionally based lobbying, anti-hunting activists have been pretty successful pushing to ban trapping, including prohibiting Conibear traps, which are not leghold traps. Presented with strong approval before the Connecticut Environmental committee Senate Bill No. 994 "An Act Concerning Leghold Traps." In essence, the bill effectively proposes to ban trapping altogether.

If enacted, the ban would take effect on July 1, 2009.

Banning trapping would have an almost immediate impact on the environment, especially where beaver populations build dams. A late entry to the discussion deals with adverse economic impact on state revenues and costs associated with varmint control.

We cannot afford to have wildlife management tools banned because of ill-informed emotional appeals. It is vital you let legislators know what impact such a ban would have on good land conservation management practices.

If you don't know who your legislators are, click on the Connecticut Sportsmen's Association link learn who to contact and how and let them know NOW! You can also find your legislators, and what committees they serve on at the Connecticut General Assembly web page.

Massachusetts has already had the experience of finding out the immense cost of removing traps as a wildlife management tool. The state is now trying to find other ways to deal with beaver damages. Since the habitat range of the beaver is widespread, the potential for damage is extensive.

Read more about the impact of this proposed legislation, as well as more on the Conibear trap at Jeff Serena's Nature Examiner web page.

UPDATE : As of Wednesday, 15th April, I'm told that "...The leghold trap bill died for lack of action in the Judiciary Committee on Wednesday afternoon. There may be an effort to revive it as an amendment, but legislators REALLY don't want to vote on it..." Let's remain vigilant, for the session is not over until it's over and you never know who will tack parts of this bill onto something else as a "Rat" amendment. [A legislative "Rat" is a bill or an amendment slipped in quietly to favor a friend or special interest].

THANKS TO: Bob Crook with the Coalition of Connecticut Sportsmen for keeping us all informed about this subject. I also want to thank another, unnamed, lobbyist for additional tracking of Bill 994.

firearms trainings

2009-04-07T09:31:00.010-04:00

This coming Saturday, 11th April 2009, Defense Associates staff are holding a pistol course, Concealed Carry Realities at the Blue Trail Range in Wallingford, CT. Here's a description of the class:

As part of the process to obtain a concealed carry permit, most states now require the applicant to complete some form of training, usually a NRA Basic Handgun Course or the equivalent.
     While these courses do teach the fundamentals of handgun operation and their safe handling on a target range, they do not come close to preparing the student for carrying a weapon in public. Inappropriate display (even unintentionally) or use of a weapon can result in consequences ranging from a simple loss of your permit to bankruptcy and/or prison time.
     CCR is an informal, one day seminar which combines material from both the 3 Day Defensive Handgun Course and Massad Ayoob's LFI1 to provide permit holders with an understanding of the skills - physical, tactical and intellectual - needed by those who carry a firearm for self-defense.
     Included are a wide variety of topics including weapon selection and carry techniques, the use of deadly force, shooting techniques, interacting with the police and much, much more. Includes both classroom and live fire range work.

The cost of the course is $135. Download and print out the registration form, complete it then fax it [1-203-261-8719] to Defense Associates when completed.

Thanks to Emmett for bringing this to our attention. PHOTO CREDIT: Defense Associates website

laws and legislation

2009-03-31T08:31:00.011-04:00

Don't be the target, be on target!
Your legislators need to hear from you regularly!

On the downside: hunting license fees may double; there's an effort to ban leg hold traps. On the up: a renewed effort to add Sunday hunting

Stay informed and do not be shy about contacting your legislator and important committee members. Let them get to know you by your first name. If you have local legislator who doesn't understand out perspective, take they time to educate them, nicely. They don't have to agree with all your points, as long as they realize the importance of protecting hunting rights.

Bookmark the Connecticut Sportsmen's Association web page on legislative updates, then check it frequently during the legislative session.

After that, call, e-mail and/or write your legislator about these bills.

Here are those URL addresses again if you want to write them down:

CONTACT: http://www.ctsportsmen.com/legislation/alert_message.htm
UPDATES: http://www.ctsportsmen.com/legislation/2009%20other_proposed_bills1.htm

upcoming activites at the club

2009-03-29T20:53:00.009-04:00

1. Attendance to the April 6th monthly meeting is very important.

2. Town Wide Clean Up - April 4th
     a. Can someone post signs - possibly use the Town's signs - we need a reminder.
     b. Help needed Friday afternoon - we should clean our own facility - has anyone checked metal prices or should we just take the excess to the Transfer Station? We also have to prep food and set up tables for Saturday. We need to set up a white board so individuals can sign in.
     c. Participation by as many as possible would help.
     d. Four cooks needed for Saturday - 9 am to 2 pm

3. Fish Stocking - if anyone wants to help - 4:30 am - this Thursday

4. April Game Dinner - 4/18 confirm your reservations

5. Reminder - Project Grad - prep Friday 4/24, Cook Sat - 4/25 - 5 or 6 cooks needed,

6. Sunday - April 26 - Major work party

7. Children's Fishing Derby - New Date - May 3rd - 4 cooks needed, 4 pond monitors needed - 7:30 am to 12:30 pm

East Haddam clean-up day

2009-03-16T09:29:00.016-04:00

Coming up!

WHEN ?: Saturday, April 4, 2009 - starting at 8:00 a.m [earlier if you'd like]
WHERE ?: Meet at the East Haddam Town Hall/Grange, on Town Street across from First Church Cemetery. There you can get large garbage bags and help coordinate clean up by either getting an assigned area or let organizers know where you plan on cleaning up.
WHO ?: Me. You. Your family and friends. Anyone can help out. It's a town-wide event

HELP TURN A MESS LIKE THIS:

INTO A PRISTINE WOODLAND AGAIN

This is an illegal dump pile somewhere in the woods of East Haddam.
   Too bad it is not the only place like this to clean up.
   You can help by picking up litter from the roadsides, pulling an old fridge or stack of broken computers from underneath some brush; all of it is fair game to pick up and bring to the Transfer Station.
   On Earth Day, for those helping with town clean-up, Transfer Station drop-off fees are waived for such junk.

All those working hard at cleaning up the garbage [including you] are invited around noon to the Moodus Sportsmen's Club for lunch. [Check to the right side of this page for directions]

at the game dinner

2009-02-22T21:18:00.015-05:00

Menu
Smoked Bluefish - from Long Island Sound, dry rubbed and infused with apple smoke.
Served with onions, peppers, sour cream, caviar & crackers
Seafood Bisque - a blend of fresh Connecticut seafood, heavy cream, sherry and a touch of Indian Saffron
Rabbit Confit over Salad - slow poached rabbit over a bed of mirco greens with dressing
Venison Carpaccio - seared venison flank drizzled with virgin olive oil and shaved parmesan,
mushrooms, pepper and balsamic vinegar
Venison Perogi - thoughtfully done ground venison with onions, butter and array of spices.
Served with a sage sauce and sour cream
Pheasant Cannelloni - crepes stuffed with pheasant, prosciutto, leeks, cheese,
and a dazzling choice of herbs
Sour Cream Pumpkin Pie - with a cinnamon rum sauce and maple creme fraiche

Coffee; Tea; Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon; Beer; water; soft drinks

As usual, gourmet foods in abundance; one of Moodus' greatest secrets right here.

laws and legislation

2009-02-18T22:59:00.018-05:00

Don't be the target, be on target!
It's not enough just to vote in elections
your legislators need to hear from you regularly!

Several proposals are before the legislature to ban or otherwise restrict legal firing ranges in Connecticut.
In addition, this year 2009, is the year Hartford's politicians wrangle with the governor about the state budget. One thing certain to be debated this session is Governor Rell's wish to double all license fees. So my hunting license costs next year, if enacted, might be $180 instead of $90 [not including duck and pheasant stamp fees, for example].

Budget issues and attempts to shut down shooting ranges are not the only things under debate this year. Some other proposals being debated this year include:

• An Act Concerning Firing Ranges ATTORNEY GENERAL bill). REF. PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECURITY. Not yet in Print Requires any person who owns or operates a firing range to register with the Department of Public Safety and requires such person maintain and operate such firing range in safe manner, comply with environmental laws and limit noise (60 db) emanating from such ranges. Affects ALL ranges except police. Gives DPS broad authority
• Proposed S.B. No. 353 SEN. LOONEY, 11th DIST. 'AN ACT CONCERNING THE MICROSTAMPING OF SEMIAUTOMATIC PISTOLS', to facilitate the linking of used cartridge cases to the firearm that fired them by requiring the microstamping of semiautomatic pistols.
• Proposed H.B. No. 5209 REP. MINER, 66th DIST. 'AN ACT CONCERNING STATE LAND WHERE HUNTING IS PERMITTED', to maintain the amount of state land where hunting is permitted. REF. ENVIRONMENT.
• AA PROHIBITING THE USE OF BODY-CRUSHING AND LEGHOLD TRAPS. TO BE RAISED.
• S.B. No. 839 SEN. MCKINNEY, 28th DIST.; REP. CAFERO, 142nd DIST. 'AN ACT CONCERNING MERGERS AND CONSOLIDATIONS OF VARIOUS STATE AGENCIES', to implement the Governor's budget recommendations. Transfers the previously independent Board of Firearms Permit Examiners, to the Department of Public Safety, Sec 30. REF. GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION AND ELECTIONS
...and these are only a few items under review.

     How can you find out about bills like these?
     Connecticut Sportsmen are fortunate to have a hard-working Legislative consultant by the name of Robert Crook who works tirelessly at keeping us informed on issues important to us. He helps to keep us informed by keeping the Coalition of Connecticut Sportsmen website up to date with prospective legislation.
     You can also ask to be added to his e-mailing information list by writing to Robert Crook at info@ctsportsmen.com and ask to be added to updates bulletin e-mail list. You'll get more than legislative info, but what he sends is always informative.

     Who are our politicians, and how do we contact them?
     In the East Haddam/Moodus area, our state senator is Eileen Daily, our state representative is Linda Orange. Incidentally, both are on the legislature's Public Safety Committee, which has some oversight authority over firing range issues anyway.
     Frankly, it is often better to call rather than e-mail. Senator Daily's phone number is 1-800-842-1420; Representative Orange can be reached at (860) 240-8585, 1-800-842-8267 or locally at (860) 537-3936.
     If you live in another town you can find your local state senator and representative and make sure you let your legislators know how you feel about these ideas and issues.

activites of interest

2009-02-18T20:53:00.021-05:00

• Saturday, Feb 21 Wood Duck Box Building Day. 10:00 am to 3 pm. Lunch Provided. This year the event will be at the Deerborn barn (shop) at Flaherty Field Trial Area in East Windsor. If you want to attend, click here for directions. Participants are asked to please bring your own portable drills and hammers.

• Friday thru Sunday Feb 20 to 22 2009 Springfield Sportsmen's Show at the "Big E," the Eastern States Exposition, West Springfield, Massachusetts. This year's 'Super Show' will include hunting, fishing, boating and outdoor recreation all bundled together. Admission: adults - $12; children 6 to 12 $5.

DEP Firearms Hunting Course and DEP Bowhunter Course
• February 25, 26, 27, March 5 & 6 (6:00 PM- 9:00 PM), and March 8 (9:00 AM- 4:00 PM) DEP Firearms Hunting Course at the Moodus Sportsmen's Club. Pre-Registration is Mandatory. All firearms hunting courses are 16 hours or longer. You must attend all scheduled class times. To register call Franklin WMA at 860-642-7239 or e-mail the Franklin DEP office at dep.franklinwildlife@ct.gov. Office hours are 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM

• March 7 DEP Bowhunting Course (9:00 AM- 4:00 PM)at the Moodus Sportsmen's Club. Pre-Registration is Mandatory. All bowhunting courses are 6 hours or longer. You must attend all scheduled class times. To register call Franklin WMA at 860-642-7239 or e-mail the Franklin DEP office at dep.franklinwildlife@ct.gov. Office hours are 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM

Who should take courses?
• All first time hunters at least 11 years old and trappers of any age.
• Those hunters who have not held a resident license within the past five years from another state or country.
• After January 1, 2002, all persons who wish to hunt with a bow and have not taken the CE/FS bowhunting course or its equivalent.
• Those individuals who have never taken the course and want to participate in a controlled hunt.
• Individuals who want to learn more about outdoor safety, hunting and wildlife management.

Fishing Derby Winners

2009-02-12T14:38:00.008-05:00

Austin and Rick Urban are in this picture. Rick is on the right.

* Biggest Bass - Rick Urban 5.35 pounds. I think from Moodus Reservoir
* Biggest Perch - Austin Urban - 1.11 pounds. Possibly Bashan Lake
* Biggest Pickerel - James Campbell 3.435 pounds - Moodus Reservoir

Left to right: Soup Campbell [whose pickerel catch weighed 3.055 pounds] and James with James's catch

The day was a good one for fishing, warm weather with a solid ice shelf that ranged between 12 and 17 inches thick, depending. Lake Hayward was covered with fishing enthusiasts, some trying to put their lines in between other people's augured holes. But the competition fish seemed to be best found in Bashan Lake and Moodus Reservoir.
     A sudden, brief, thunder and lightening storm around 1100 hours had everybody spooked. Reports from weather stations later in the day noted that this phenom didn't happen anywhere else in the state. Were we in danger? Well, a woman riding her four-wheeler on Moodus Reservoir reported that she saw lightening strike real close to her. Lucky for everybody the storm lasted only a few minutes.
     There were about 170 entrants, and when weigh-in time arrived, parking at the club almost became a spot all it's own. Luckily Bill and Will were able to cram a lot of 8 foot bed pick-ups into the upper parking lot and along Old East Haddam-Colchester Turnpike. Even when vehicles got double parked it seemed to be no problem.
     After the weigh-in, there was plenty of venison stew, corn chowder, fresh fried perch and a passel of other tasty morsels for all.

MSC Annual Ice Fishing Derby: February 8th 2009

2009-01-03T15:59:00.004-05:00

The Moodus Sportsman's Club's annual Ice Fishing Derby is on for this year Sunday, February 8th [The "ice out" reschedule date is 2/15/09]. Fishing starts at 6:00 am through 1:00 p.m. Fun for everyone of all ages from those fishing as well as those who just want to come along to take pictures or enjoy the brisk winter weather.

ALL ADULT PARTICIPANTS MUST HAVE VALID CT FISHING LICENSE. Connecticut state fishing regulations shall be followed. Do not bring fish for weighing that are under the State Fisheries minimum legal length for any reason.

Tournament Fee.; $20.00 per person – Children welcome with a supervising adult.

Fishing will be on:
Lake Hayward – East Haddam || Bashan Lake – East Haddam || Moodus Reservoir – Moodus
Verification: Official weigh-in at the Moodus Sportsman’s Club the day of the event at 1:10 pm sharp! – Please return to the Sportsman’s Club by 12:50 pm for final tally, and lunch to follow. Awards to be presented after weigh in - Following awards, all are welcome to stay for another of the MSC's famous buffet lunches!
Prize Fish Types:
     Bass – Largemouth/Smallmouth, Chain Pickerel or Yellow Perch
     Bass Sp. Regs – Moodus Res 1 fish 18” or>, Bashan & Hayward 2 fish 16”
Prizes:
     $1000.00 total purse; First Prize $600.00 for heaviest fish of the three species
     $200.00 each to the largest fish in the two other species listed
Registration Forms: Available anytime at the Moodus Package Store, through any member of the Moodus Sportsman's Club, Ask for one by e-mail [in MS Word or .rtf formats only] or stop by at the Club's Building on East Haddam-Colchester Turnpike on Saturday, February 7th between 4 and 6pm || Mailed applications must be postmarked by Feb. 2nd - NO REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED AFTER 6 PM FEB 07, 2009 - Clubhouse phone number 860-873-3381.

(Rain or “ice out” date Feb 15th) || CAUTION! The Moodus Sportsman’s Club does not represent that the ice is safe in all places on these lakes. All participants are responsible for their own personal safety.

Annual Game Dinners

2009-01-03T15:19:00.009-05:00

Our Annual Game Dinners are by invitation only but generally, if you know one of the members, you have an "in" - but even at that, the seats fill quickly. I can't recall when the dinners were not sold out, so let a member know if you are interested

These are held the months of January, February, March and April of each year. The menu varies depending upon what we have been able to harvest during the hunt season. The meals are always a gourmet treat and our chefs [also members] can easily hold their own against any team of fancy restaurateurs.

Each dinner has 90 guests, served seated at the table - a contrast from the spring and summer public events, which get served buffet style.

This year we look forward to better acoustics in the dining room.

There are still seats available for January 17th's game dinner

Club Rental Schedule & Maintenance Needs

2008-07-11T02:38:00.005-04:00

A note from Jim V:

     This weekend 7/12 & 7/13 and next weekend 7/19 & 7/20 the club is being rented.

     The rental committee and the grounds committee need to step to the plate to make sure the club is mowed, trimmed, clean, and restocked. Running out of TP is never fun.

     "I will pick up gas this afternoon and start some of it on Friday but have to bale hay at the Cone's Farm. Next week I will be on vacation."

     Anybody who can pitch in to spruce the place up is welcome to show up and help whittle down the chore list. And no, you won't have to use a push mower.

Showing support for Durham's Blue Trail Range

2008-07-11T01:51:00.004-04:00

     There will be an organizational meeting to promote a fundraiser held for the benefit of the Blue Trail Range, in the Durham/Wallingford area, to insure the continued operation of essentially the ONLY public outdoor range in the state.
     The meeting will be held 7PM, July 11 at Blue Trail Range [BTR]. The BTR is looking for people with food contacts, ticket sellers, those who can solicit raffle items for the event, and participation on the Set-up Committee, Finance Committee, Clean-up Committee, etc.
     In comparable situations [such as the lawsuit against the Metacon Gun Club in Simsbury] lawsuits involving ranges can be extraordinarily expensive as well as the improvements required. Supporting a retail operation is unusual, but BTR and Dave Lyman have been staunch supporters of gunowners in the state for decades.

Other things that can ve done include:
   •   Write letters to the editor of all your local newspapers supporting the Blue Trail Range.
   •   Call your local radio and television stations supporting the Blue Trail Range.
     The Blue Trail Range asks if you can help, your support would be greatly appreciated.

For more information see: Save the Blue Trail Range

The Moodus Sportsmans' Club Shad Bake

2008-06-04T09:54:00.000-04:00

Part of the view from the Sportsman's Club

Sunday, June 22nd, 2008 food begins to be served at noon. Come early and visit with friends and neighbors. Meet new people in town. Enjoy the view.
     If fish is not your favorite, not to worry. We'll have plenty to eat in addition, including chowder, chicken, smoked turkey, coleslaw, venison chili and much more! You won't be going away hungry.
     Tickets are $20 adults; $17 seniors; $6 for kids under 12 or stop at the Moodus Package Store for tickets. Contact any MSC member in advance and get a [slightly] reduced price.
Getting to the Sportsman's Club
     Click on this link for directions from the Connecticut River. For directions from Colchester, CT and East Hampton, CT [or anywhere from Route 2] check this mapquest directional guide.
     Once you get to the club we ask you follow the directions of our parking crew when you get there. The shad bake is our best attended event and we plan the parking accordingly. Don't park in senior / handicapped parking without speaking with the parking crew.

January's Game Dinner

2008-01-16T00:41:00.000-05:00

Saturday, January 19th

That's this coming Saturday night!

On the menu: Venison carpaccio, braised rabbit, crab ravioli with Blue Crab sauce, and eider sausage along with Smoked Shad, Beaver Pot Pie, and Apple Tart

We still have open seats - for a $30 donation you get a great gourmet multi-coursed meal that you'd pay more than $100 a head at some upscale trendy restaurant... though you wouldn't get the quantity nor the quality.

Contact me via e-mail [that's will.brady@gmail.com] before Friday night to reserve a seat.

Oh, It'd be easiest if you are within relatively close travel distance to Moodus Connecticut

about the club

2008-01-16T00:03:00.000-05:00

The Moodus Sportsman's Club is just east of the East Haddam Town Beach on the Moodus Reservior in Moodus, Connecticut.

Established in 1942, it's purpose is to promote the ancient traditions of hunting, fishing and trapping.

The club supports wise use of the land, good sportsmanship, conservation practices and preservation of open spaces.