First, a warning. Don't be fishing any flies tied with moose hair this weekend. Some sharp-shooting hunter may drop it dead in the air, or some love-hungry-moose might just pay you a visit. Yes, 'tis the "Swamp-Donkey Season".

Moose hunters will be out and about, so take some care while traveling to your favourite pools. Wearing some hunter orange might not be a bad idea, just to be on the save side.

The Miramichi Salmon Association which operates the hatchery, is one of the sponsors of this column, and has the unique notoriety of being the longest continuously operating fish hatchery in North America.

Hatchery manager Mark Hambrook emphasized that the role of the hatchery is "simply to help preserve and conserve the salmon stocks. We push for the conservation of Atlantic Salmon, and yet we also want anglers to be able to enjoy the sport of angling and so we strongly urge every angler to carefully return all salmon back to the river so they can spawn," said Hambrook. He has often referred to the work of the hatchery as "An insurance policy for the salmon stocks in the Miramichi."

As September moves along, the MSA will be collecting their brood stock for the hatchery. They have collected on the Cains River, the Northwest and at Burnt Hill on the Main Southwest. On Wednesday of this week, they had the community college of Miramichi helping with brood collection at Mooselanding and Smith Forks on the Little Southwest. They will be covering the rest of the rivers as the month progresses. This ensures a certain number of eggs will be raised at the hatchery and then put back as fry into the rivers from which they came.

Hambrook said that the MSA will also be sweeping selected pools to look for tagged salmon and grilse.

If anyone would like to join the field work crews, he or she is welcome. Just call the hatchery at (506)622-1781 to make arrangements.

Hambrook noted that the MSA is completing its electro-seining project for the year, and says there are very encouraging results.

"With all of the high water last fall, a good number of salmon were able to go up into the brooks to spawn. We are finding fry in areas where we haven't seen them in years. That's very encouraging and bodes well for the future," said Hambrook.

Bass Update: Hambrook said the MSA is still monitoring the bass in Miramichi Lake. He said there has been spawning by the bass because young fish are showing up in their Fyke Traps (small traps similar to eel traps). MSA is continuing electro-seining at the mouth of Miramichi Lake and the blocking barriers are still in place.

There was a conference call between DFO and the various people concerned with the bass in Miramichi Lake. Hambrook said that there is an established population in the lake, and spawning has taken place. They are catching bass from very small up to six year-olds, so there are several generations. At present, the population is confined to Miramichi Lake with a fence blocking the outlet. Hambrook said that with the low density, they bass will probably remain in the lake, but if the population grows and becomes too dense, then they are more prone to migrate to find feeding areas.

He said that the MSA cannot eradicate the population from the lake because NB is not on the federal list that allows the use of fish toxins, and going through the legal steps to procure one would take about two years to obtain the legal frame-work to eradicate the bass from the lake as they are a threat to the salmon population.

In the meantime, MSA is trying to control the population as best it can by using trap nets for the very small bass, and gill nets for the larger ones. He noted that pretty well every day they are catching small bass in the trap nets, and about one a day, give or take, in the gill nets.

He said it is difficult to establish accurate population numbers, but normally they would tag the fish and use those as trackers, but it is more pressing to remove every bass that they can catch. He said as of this week, they are still catching some bass.

The trout ponds will be open only Mondays to Fridays, and closed on weekends.

Hambrook noted that the MSA dinner in Fredericton was a great success with over 500 in attendance. He said it was the largest live auction that he can remember. Congratulations to all who made it a success.

Another sponsor this week is the Moncton Fish & Game Association. They do much to help promote a love and respect of the outdoors and the sports of hunting and fishing. They encourage and teach Fly-Tying to both adults and the younger generation. The club is involved in working closely with the Atlantic Salmon Federation and the Petitcodiac River-Keepers and their efforts to restore and conserve the fish populations.

The club has two annual fun-raisers which are their annual dinner in November and a Pig-Roast in the spring. They use the funds for projects and to send kids to outdoor summer camps. They have about 100 members and welcome anyone who loves the outdoors. Membership is only $20 a year plus $50 if members want to use the Shooting Range which they have. They also have a speaker at every meeting. So get out and become involved in the Moncton Fish & Game Association. Contact club president Clarence Donelle at 506-388-3175 or 506-381-3165 for more information.

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said angling was slow, but some were catching fish. However, they hard to work hard for success. Catches were mostly salmon and older fish that have been in the system for a while, but there were a few fresh fish starting to appear this week. Although the water is low, the temperatures are good and fish are congregating in the deeper holding pools. A good day's rain is needed to really shift gears to get the fall run into over-drive.

Flies of choice were small dark wet flies such as White-tailed Green Machines, Undertakers and Bear Hairs on nos. 8 & 10 hooks, along with small shrimps and Bombers.

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said they were picking up some fish, but mostly salmon in the mid-20-pound range, and mostly old fish that had been around for a while. They did catch a few grilse this week. A party of four hooked six on Saturday. There were also a few fresh fish.

Flies of choice were no specific pattern, but anglers were using small Undertakers, Ally's Shrimps and Bombers

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb's Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said anglers were getting some fish, but no spectacular numbers. Most were salmon in the 25-30 pound range. The water was very low and rain is desperately needed.

Flies of choice were Ally's Shrimps and General Practitioners.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said they were starting to hear of a few fresh fish entering the system, although most catching was older fish, with most being salmon. The water was low and clear, but a good temperature.

Flies of choice were Blue Smurfs, Almost Always, Wouf-Woufs, Undertakers, Sugarman's Shrimps and Blue Bombers.

George Routledge of George's Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said angling was very, very slow. The water was extremely low and stale. A good rain is needed to put oxygen back into the water to get more fresh fish moving.

Flies of choice were Shady Ladies, White-tailed Green Machines, Ally's Shrimps, Cascade Shrimps, General Practitioners and L.T. Specials.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported angling as slow with only the odd fish taking. The water levels were low, but cool. A good rain is needed. There were a few fresh fish being reported.

Flies of choice were Bombers, General Practitioners, Ally's Shrimps and White-tailed Green Machines.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said angling was quiet, with only the clubs catching a few. The water was low, but cool. He said fish were coming in until they found a spring, got a drink of fresh water, and were heading back out. He noted anglers had to work hard for any fish caught. He was getting ready to go for some "Swamp Donkeys". He noted the Northwest was closed from Little River up and trout season was over.

Flies of choice were White-tailed Green Machines, Shady Ladies, and Bombers in Green & orange, and white & orange.

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said they were starting to pick up a few fish, which included both salmon and grilse. Bonnie Wright caught one and lost one last Friday and Betty Ward caught one. The water was low, but cold. The trees were starting to turn colours, so it was just a good time to be out.

Flies of choice were White & Orange Bombers.

With fall officially here and the colours beginning to change, some fresh fish starting up the rivers, it is time to get out and "on the water".

Be sure to drop into Eskape Anglers in Riverview for all of your fishing needs, and pick up a few Carter's Bugs (this is the time for them), get some fall patterns such as Ally's Shrimps and General Practitioners, and a few good stories from Bryant Freeman.

Another sponsor this week is Fredericton Outfitters & Anglers, operated by Chris Munn. He is the "authorized Dealer" for ORVIS fishing gear. It is also a good time to stock up on fall patterns here as well. We encourage anglers from that area, and those passing through, to drop into the shop located on 285 Canada St. Call (506) 450-4044 or contact chrismunn@frederictonoutfitters.com

All of these businesses and organizations support us, so let's support them.

We also would like to thank a SECOND donor who made a contribution to keeping the column going. On behalf of me, Terry Matchett who does technical and business end of the column, and all who enjoy the column, we give a hearty THANK YOU for the support!

Thought for the Week: "Calling fishing a hobby is like calling brain surgery a job."
Paul Schullery

(In case you missed it last week) Concern over proposed changes to Crown Reserve

This past week I have received several e-mails and a lot of street feed-back about the government's plan of not managing the Crown Reserve camps and stretches. The crown

reserve draw puts everyone on an equal playing field, and that opportunity must not be taken away. WE are the ones who elect politicians "to serve OUR wishes". But so often once the election passes, "the elected" seem to forget who their real bosses are: The People. New Brunswick is not owned by politicians. It is owned by the people who live here, pay taxes here and who choose those who are supposed to listen to them. And it is WE who should determine how our resources are managed.

Government is always talking about creating jobs, but they continue to cut back on jobs related to the angling and hunting areas. We need more wardens, improved accommodations and road work to the sights done. Consider the money brought into the province via hunting and angling, and yet the number of wardens to over see it all is ridiculously low.

Governments are so quick to bring in foreign business ventures and finance them to create jobs. So often this money is mis-used and the province is left to pay the bills and forgetting the loans. Hiring 50 to 100 wardens across the province would cost much less than some of the projects which are supported. Even with seasonal work, these people would be putting the money back into the economy of NB and probably be bringing in some "UI" or EI as it is known today from federal coffers as well.

Creating work for 50 to 100 people usually is a great photo-op for government officials, so why not do it this way? This would be putting people to work and would be protecting our resources as well.

Look at what has been done to camp owners across the province by not listening.

The message is loud and clear: WE WANT IT KEPT AS IS, with some improvements to boot. Or come election time, we may have to use "The BOOT". Contact your local MLAs and make your wishes known. Talk to them at EVERY OPPORTUNITY, e-mail them, write them and call their offices. Wear them down, or throw them out! If enough do this, maybe, just maybe the message will be heard.

I received a good number of calls and e-mails in support of keeping the Crown Reserve Waters under provincial jurisdiction.

Reminder:

---

Congratulations are in order for 2009 Salmon Hall of Fame Inductees

The Atlantic Salmon Museum, Doaktown, N.B. will host its annual Hall of Fame Awards Banquet on Friday, September 25th, with a "meet and greet reception" at 5:30pm, followed by dinner at 6:30pm.

Inductees for 2009 are as follows:
read more on our website www.atlanticsalmonmuseum.com

Donald and Hudson (Tompy) MacKay, father and son (both deceased) will be inducted in the GUIDE category, where both gentlemen were employed as guides for many years. Donald was also a caretaker at Burnt Hill.

William Basco (Willy) (deceased) born in Hungary. He guided and worked as a caretaker for Wades, and later for the Campbell's and Keenan's pools in Blackville. He will be inducted in the GUIDE category.

The Rev. Walter Chandler Lynch, lives in Miramichi. He learned "fly tying" from a couple of friends but mostly self-taught. He will be inducted as both an ANGLER, and a FLY TYER.

Jacques Heroux (Dieppe) A member of the N. B. Salmon Council, and the N. B. Wildlife Association. He has been a guest tyer at some of the major Fly Fishing Shows in Canada and in 1999 he was the winner of the Atlantic Provinces Fly Tying Championship. He will be inducted as a FLY TYER.

The Guest speaker will be Doug MacDonald of Moncton. Doug is well known on the Miramichi, and is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Miramichi Salmon Association.

A limited number of tickets are available; please phone (506) 365-7787 for your ticket today. $35.00 each.

The angling community sends condolences to the family and friends of the late George Hubbard, long-time angler who passed away this week. George loved to fish, especially for bass, with Bernard Geikie and others at Strawberry Marsh and at the mouth of the Barnaby River. So long old Friend!

TIGHT LINES...
Doug

As per last week, we are still waiting for a good rain to bring in the fall run of fish. On the positive side, cooler weather has made the existing fish a bit more active and there has been an increase in the numbers being hooked, although there are still a lot that seem to have lock-jaw.

The Miramichi Salmon Association which operates the hatchery, is one of the sponsors of this column, and has the unique notoriety of being the longest continuously operating fish hatchery in North America.

Hatchery manager Mark Hambrook emphasized that the role of the hatchery is "simply to help preserve and conserve the salmon stocks. We push for the conservation of Atlantic Salmon, and yet we also want anglers to be able to enjoy the sport of angling and so we strongly urge every angler to carefully return all salmon back to the river so they can spawn," said Hambrook. He has often referred to the work of the hatchery as "An insurance policy for the salmon stocks in the Miramichi."

As September moves along, the MSA will be collecting their brood stock for the hatchery. They collected on the Cains River last week, and will be working on the Northwest today and at Burnt Hill on Friday, as well as covering the rest of the rivers as the month progresses. This ensures a certain number of eggs will be raised at the hatchery and then put back as fry into the rivers from which they came.

Hambrook noted that the MSA is completing its electro-seining project for the year, and says there are very encouraging results.

"With all of the high water last fall, a good number of salmon were able to go up into the brooks to spawn. We are finding fry in areas where we haven't seen them in years. That's very encouraging and bodes well for the future," said Hambrook.

Bass Update: Hambrook said the MSA is still monitoring the bass in Miramichi Lake. He said there has been spawning by the bass because young fish are showing up in their Fyke Traps (small traps similar to eel traps). MSA is continuing electro-seining at the mouth of Miramichi Lake and the blocking barriers are still in place.

There was a conference call between DFO and the various people concerned with the bass in Miramichi Lake. Hambrook said that there is an established population in the lake, and spawning has taken place. They are catching bass from very small up to six year-olds, so there are several generations. At present, the population is confined to Miramichi Lake with a fence blocking the outlet. Hambrook said that with the low density, they bass will probably remain in the lake, but if the population grows and becomes too dense, then they are more prone to migrate to find feeding areas.

He said that the MSA cannot eradicate the population from the lake because NB is not on the federal list that allows the use of fish toxins, and going through the legal steps to procure one would take about two years to obtain the legal frame-work to eradicate the bass from the lake as they are a threat to the salmon population.

In the meantime, MSA is trying to control the population as best it can by using trap nets for the very small bass, and gill nets for the larger ones. He noted that pretty well every day they are catching small bass in the trap nets, and about one a day, give or take, in the gill nets.

He said it is difficult to establish accurate population numbers, but normally they would tag the fish and use those as trackers, but it is more pressing to remove every bass that they can catch.

The trout ponds will be open only Mondays to Fridays, and closed on weekends.

Another sponsor this week is the Moncton Fish & Game Association. They do much to help promote a love and respect of the outdoors and the sports of hunting and fishing. They encourage and teach Fly-Tying to both adults and the younger generation. The club is involved in working closely with the Atlantic Salmon Federation and the Petitcodiac River-Keepers and their efforts to restore and conserve the fish populations.

The club has two annual fun-raisers which are their annual dinner in November and a Pig-Roast in the spring. They use the funds for projects and to send kids to outdoor summer camps. They have about 100 members and welcome anyone who loves the outdoors. Membership is only $20 a year plus $50 if members want to use the Shooting Range which they have. They also have a speaker at every meeting. So get out and become involved in the Moncton Fish & Game Association. Contact club president Clarence Donelle at 506-388-3175 or 506-381-3165 for more information.

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said angling was slow, and a good rain was needed to bring in fresh fish. The water temperature was good and there were a few fish being caught, mostly in the cold-water pools. Anglers were reporting a lott being seen and jumping, but getting them to take was a challenge.

Flies of choice were small wet flies such as Green Machines and Black Bugs on nos. 8 & 10, along with No. 4 Bombers with brown bodies.

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said angling was better this week than last. His clients had hooked 12 fish between 10 rods on Tuesday and had hooked four or five on Saturday between two rods.. However, none of the fish were fresh.

Flies of choice were small wets such as Green-butt Squirrel Tails and White-tailed Green Machines on nos. 8 & 10 hooks along with Bombers in blue & white and brown & orange.

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb's Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said they had been getting a few fish this week, some of which were big salmon. There was one unconfirmed report of one salmon that hit the 40 pound mark on the scoop-net which registers the weight. However, all of the fish were dark and had been in the system for a while, but started taking as the water cooled. Still, anglers were seeing good numbers even if it was a challenge to get them to take.

Flies of choice were the Red Francis, Ally's Shrimp, Red Abby and Tippett Shrimps.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said the water was very, very low, but clear and cool. There were good numbers of old fish around, but there was not a lot of catching taking place.

Flies of choice were the Red Francis, L.T. Special, Almost Always, White-tailed Green Machines, Wouf Woufs, and Bombers

George Routledge of George's Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said angling was very poor at best with not a lot of fish moving. A good rain was needed to bring in the fresh ones in the Fall run.

Flies of choice were mostly the fall patterns such as Ally's Shrimps, Tippett Shrimps, Cascading Shrimp and General Practitioners.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported angling as slow. There were good numbers of fish jumping and showing, but not taking. These fish were primarily old fish that have been in the system for a while. A good rain was needed to bring in the fall runs. Anglers were trying small wets and Bombers.

Flies of choice were small White-tailed Green Machines, Shady Ladies and Undertakers on no. 8 hooks, along with the fall patterns such as Ally's Shrimps, General Practitioners and a variety of Bombers.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said angling was quiet. The only bright spot was the report of one angler who had landed a grilse and hooked two others by stripping his fly across the pool. The Crown Reserve stretches are now closed and trout season is finished. The water was low, but cool. The salmon numbers were staying up in comparison to grilse.

Flies of choice were Undertakers, Yellow-winged Butterflies, Shady Ladies, Black Ghosts in wets, and Bombers in the dry.

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said angling was pretty slow with only the odd one slipping by. The water was low and cold.

Flies of choice were big Bombers.

With the fall foliage beginning to turn, the nights and days cooler, the fish slightly more active, it is time to get out and "on the water".

P.S. Thanks to the large number of people who have signed up for the column and to those who have graciously agreed to sponsorship, as well as to those who have given feedback. We can still use more support and more sign-ups, so tell your friends. Send along your stories and photos.

Be sure to drop into Eskape Anglers in Riverview for all of your fishing needs, and pick up a few Carter’s Bugs (this is the time for them), get some fall patterns such as Ally's Shrimps and General Practitioners, and a few good stories from Bryant Freeman.

Another sponsor this week is Fredericton Outfitters & Anglers, operated by Chris Munn. He is the "authorized Dealer" for ORVIS fishing gear. It is also a good time to stock up on fall patterns here as well. We encourage anglers from that area, and those passing through, to drop into the shop located on 285 Canada St. Call (506) 450-4044 or contact chrismunn@frederictonoutfitters.com

All of these businesses and organizations support us, so let's support them.

We also would like to thank a SECOND donor who made a contribution to keeping the column going. On behalf of me, Terry Matchett who does technical and business end of the column, and all who enjoy the column, we give a hearty THANK YOU for the support!

Thought for the Week: "Fly fishing needs to have a touch of magic about it if we are to enjoy it to the full".
Conrad Voss Bark

Miramichi loses a fine gentleman and a lover of fishing

Miramichiers, and the fishing community in particular, lost a long-time friend and supporter in the person of Bruce Whipple. Bruce was a retired teacher from NSER, an avid sports fan, a long-time coach, a loving father, grandfather and husband, and friend to many along the river. He was also very active in promoting salmon conservation.

Part of his obituary reads as follows:
"Over the years, Bruce has been involved with and volunteered with many groups and organizations including: Northumberland Salmon Protection Association, Miramichi Salmon Association, Atlantic Salmon Federation, MREAC, Fish Friends, Miramichi Literacy Council, District 16 Track and Field Meet, Relay for Life, Alumni & Friends of NSER, NBTA and Miramichi Retired Teachers. He served two years on the New Brunswick Wildlife Trust and was honoured with several awards for volunteerism. Besides coaching Bruce also played baseball for a number of teams in Sillikers and Sunny Corner, played hockey every week with the Retired Teachers Hockey Team and attended many sports events."

He volunteered his time for meetings, as a guide for angling events, in organizing salmon dinners, brood stock collection, parr and fry release and a host of other activities associated with the salmon conservation. Our sympathies go out to his family and friends. Always witty, and always the gentleman, Bruce will be missed by many. I'm not sure of how people go into the here-after, but if Bruce had his way, it might just be on the back of a large fall hook-bill. Tight Lines here after, MY FRIEND!

Concern over proposed changes to Crown Reserve

This past week I have received several e-mails and a lot of street feed-back about the government's plan of not managing the Crown Reserve camps and stretches. The crown reserve draw puts everyone on an equal playing field, and that opportunity must not be taken away.

WE are the ones who elect politicians "to serve OUR wishes". But so often once the election passes, "the elected" seem to forget who their real bosses are: The People. New Brunswick is not owned by politicians. It is owned by the people who live here, pay taxes here and who choose those who are supposed to listen to them. And it is WE who should determine how our resources are managed.

Government is always talking about creating jobs, but they continue to cut back on jobs related to the angling and hunting areas. We need more wardens, improved accommodations and road work to the sights done. Consider the money brought into the province via hunting and angling, and yet the number of wardens to over see it all is ridiculously low. Governments are so quick to bring in foreign business ventures and finance them to create jobs. So often this money is mis-used and the province is left to pay the bills and forgetting the loans. Hiring 50 to 100 wardens across the province would cost much less than some of the projects which are supported. Even with seasonal work, these people would be putting the money back into the economy of NB and probably be bringing in some "UI" or EI as it is known today from federal coffers as well.

Creating work for 50 to 100 people usually is a great photo-op for government officials, so why not do it this way? This would be putting people to work and would be protecting our resources as well.

Look at what has been done to camp owners across the province by not listening.

The message is loud and clear: WE WANT IT KEPT AS IS, with some improvements to boot. Or come election time, we may have to use "The BOOT". Contact your local MLAs and make your wishes known. Talk to them at EVERY OPPORTUNITY, e-mail them, write them and call their offices. Wear them down, or throw them out! If enough do this, maybe, just maybe the message will be heard.

Reminder:

---

Congratulations are in order for 2009 Salmon Hall of Fame Inductees

The Atlantic Salmon Museum, Doaktown, N.B. will host its annual Hall of Fame Awards Banquet on Friday, September 25th, with a "meet and greet reception" at 5:30pm, followed by dinner at 6:30pm.

Inductees for 2009 are as follows:
read more on our website www.atlanticsalmonmuseum.com

Donald and Hudson (Tompy) MacKay, father and son (both deceased) will be inducted in the GUIDE category, where both gentlemen were employed as guides for many years. Donald was also a caretaker at Burnt Hill.

William Basco (Willy) (deceased) born in Hungary. He guided and worked as a caretaker for Wades, and later for the Campbell's and Keenan's pools in Blackville. He will be inducted in the GUIDE category.

The Rev. Walter Chandler Lynch, lives in Miramichi. He learned "fly tying" from a couple of friends but mostly self-taught. He will be inducted as both an ANGLER, and a FLY TYER.

Jacques Heroux (Dieppe) A member of the N. B. Salmon Council, and the N. B. Wildlife Association. He has been a guest tyer at some of the major Fly Fishing Shows in Canada and in 1999 he was the winner of the Atlantic Provinces Fly Tying Championship. He will be inducted as a FLY TYER.

The Guest speaker will be Doug MacDonald of Moncton. Doug is well known on the Miramichi, and is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Miramichi Salmon Association.

A limited number of tickets are available; please phone (506) 365-7787 for your ticket today. $35.00 each.

TIGHT LINES...
Doug

Generally, a lot hasn't changed from last week. The fall run has not started, the water is low, but the water temperature is reasonable, so there is no danger to the fish. There are good numbers of fish being seen, but they are not fresh fish. Some of the cold/low water pools are producing some fish, but mostly, one has to really work to get one.

The Miramichi Salmon Association which operates the hatchery, is one of the sponsors of this column, and has the unique notoriety of being the longest continuously operating fish hatchery in North America.

Hatchery manager Mark Hambrook emphasized that the role of the hatchery is "simply to help preserve and conserve the salmon stocks. We push for the conservation of Atlantic Salmon, and yet we also want anglers to be able to enjoy the sport of angling and so we strongly urge every angler to carefully return all salmon back to the river so they can spawn," said Hambrook. He has often referred to the work of the hatchery as "An insurance policy for the salmon stocks in the Miramichi."

The MSA will be holding its Annual Fredericton dinner on Wednesday, September 16 when they will honour Dr. Jack McKay. Tickets are $100 with all profits going back to salmon conservation. For more information and tickets, contact Joanne Linton at (506)457-2220.

As September approaches, the MSA will be getting ready to collect their brood stock for the hatchery. They will be collecting on the Cains River today, and covering the rest of the rivers as the month progresses. This ensures a certain number of eggs will be raised at the hatchery and then put back as fry into the rivers from which they came.

Hambrook noted that the MSA is completing its electro-seining project for the year, and says there are very encouraging results.

"With all of the high water last fall, a good number of salmon were able to go up into the brooks to spawn. We are finding fry in areas where we haven't seen them in years. That's very encouraging and bodes well for the future," said Hambrook.

Bass Update: Hambrook said the MSA is still monitoring the bass in Miramichi Lake. He said there has been spawning by the bass because young fish are showing up in their Fyke Traps (small traps similar to eel traps). MSA is continuing electro-seining at the mouth of Miramichi Lake and the blocking barriers are still in place.

There was a conference call between DFO and the various people concerned with the bass in Miramichi Lake. Hambrook said that there is an established population in the lake, and spawning has taken place. They are catching bass from very small up to six year-olds, so there are several generations. At present, the population is confined to Miramichi Lake with a fence blocking the outlet. Hambrook said that with the low density, they bass will probably remain in the lake, but if the population grows and becomes too dense, then they are more prone to migrate to find feeding areas.

He said that the MSA cannot eradicate the population from the lake because NB is not on the federal list that allows the use of fish toxins, and going through the legal steps to procure one would take about two years to obtain the legal frame-work to eradicate the bass from the lake as they are a threat to the salmon population.

In the meantime, MSA is trying to control the population as best it can by using trap nets for the very small bass, and gill nets for the larger ones. He noted that pretty well every day they are catching small bass in the trap nets, and about one a day, give or take, in the gill nets.

He said it is difficult to establish accurate population numbers, but normally they would tag the fish and use those as trackers, but it is more pressing to remove every bass that they can catch.

The trout ponds will be open only Mondays to Fridays, and closed on weekends.

In terms of releasing salmon, make sure you do it properly, especially as the water temperature increases. Do NOT play a salmon for a long time. Yes, we want the photo, but given the choice, it is better to break off the leader or lose the fish than play it too long and have it go belly-up.

Although most know how to revive a salmon, it is worth mentioning again. Move it gently back and forth making sure its nose is pointing UP-RIVER, so oxygen can get to its gills. Holding it down river is drowning it.

As well, when reviving the fish, make sure it is rested enough before you release it. Sometimes it will swim away immediately, but there are times when it will turn on its side. Some use the rule of thumb that "If you can hold it, it's not ready." A big salmon may jerk free on the first try, but if it doesn't, give it more time. It will let you know when it's ready.

Have the camera ready for the photo BEFORE the fish is lifted from the water. Then make it quick and get it back. If possible, do not drag the fish ashore over the rocks to remove the hook as this can damage internal organs and scrape off protective scales. Try to keep it in the water if possible.

Another sponsor this week is the Moncton Fish & Game Association. They do much to help promote a love and respect of the outdoors and the sports of hunting and fishing. They encourage and teach Fly-Tying to both adults and the younger generation. The club is involved in working closely with the Atlantic Salmon Federation and the Petitcodiac River-Keepers and their efforts to restore and conserve the fish populations.

The club has two annual fun-raisers which are their annual dinner in November and a Pig-Roast in the spring. They use the funds for projects and to send kids to outdoor summer camps. They have about 100 members and welcome anyone who loves the outdoors. Membership is only $20 a year plus $50 if members want to use the Shooting Range which they have. They also have a speaker at every meeting.

The next meeting is on September 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the Rotary Lodge when they will host a barbeque. The speaker for the Sept.14 meeting will be "Charlie Leblanc, speaking on the Yukon and the New Brunswick Wildlife Federation".

So get out and become involved in the Moncton Fish & Game Association. Contact club president Clarence Donelle at 506-388-3175 or 506-381-3165 for more information.

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said angling has been quiet in the past week or so, with only the holding pools producing some fish. The water levels are low, but not dangerously so. However, a good rain is needed to bring up the levels and to bring in new fish. Fortunately, water temperatures have been reasonable. There was a report of a 35-pound salmon landed in the Doaktown area on Tuesday.

Flies of choice were small dark flies such as Undertakers, Shady Ladies and Green Machines in nos. 8 & 10 hooks, along with Bombers.

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said the water was getting low, but the temperature was good. There were no fresh fish entering the system and only a few of the older ones were taking. They were averaging maybe two a day between six rods. He was waiting for the fall run for angling to pick up.

Flies of choice were Bombers with a lot of blue on them.

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb's Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said angling was very slow with no fresh fish coming in. The water was low and a bit warm. He said they were catching the odd fish below Blackville and above in Howards, but they were old fish, and even then, the numbers of takers were slim.

Flies of choice were Killer Whiskers along with some of the fall patterns such as Ally's Shrimps, Sugarman's Shrimp and Tippet Shrimps.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said angling was not the best, with only a few older fish being caught. There were no fresh fish to speak of. Anglers were seeing good numbers of fish, but getting them to take was another story.

Flies of choice were Bombers and some of the fall patterns with orange such as Ally's Shrimp and General Practitioners. Some were even trying Stone Flies.

George Routledge of George's Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said angling there was very quiet with only the odd fish, at best, being hooked. The water was low, but a decent temperature. He said a good rain was needed to bring some life back into the river and to bring fresh fish in.

Flies of choice were some fall patterns such as Ally's Shrimps, and Tippet Shrimps, along with Bombers and some small white-tailed Green Machines and White-tailed Shady Ladies.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported angling was "pretty slow", with the only odd fish being caught being one that had been in the system for quite a while. Anglers were seeing good numbers, but they simply would not take a fly. Water levels were low and a good rain is needed to bring in the fall run.

Flies of choice were mostly Dry Flies such as Wulff's and Bombers with green & brown.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said angling was quiet, with only the odd fish being taken from the holding pools. The rest of the pools were simply not fishing. The water was low, and anglers were waiting for the fall run after a good raise in water.

Flies of choice were Bombers and small dark flies such as Undertakers on no. 10 hooks. He felt the better odds were with the Bombers.

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said there was the odd fish being caught here and there, but in no numbers and certainly not fresh fish. It was spotty at best. She was waiting for a good rain and the fall run to start.

Flies of choice were small flies on nos. 8 & 10 hooks, Bombers, and small White-tailed Green Machines made to float.

In e-mails this week, Fr. Leon Creamer had some luck, and wrote the following:
"Thanks for the report. I was fishing on the Sullivan stretch on Aug 27th. No fish the first evening. Then I came out on the 28 to speak at the funeral of "Skip" Stewart. Skip was a great fisherman, so it was an easy task to speak of his love of the river and his Camp at mile 30.

On the last morning I did get one nice grilse on that stretch. My partner caught two grilse.

The next week, Aug. 31st I was invited to [a club in the Doaktown area]. I was fortunate enough to get another nice grilse. There were 16 fish hooked and released on that day. The last morning it turned warm and no fish were taking. Wonderful days! I wrote on my report that the government should leave the camps and the roads in the hands of the wardens. It's invaluable to us who love to fish and can only walk short distances through the woods to a fishing pool. All the best, Fr.Leon."

A second e-mail came from John Brennan:
"I suspect you get way too many photos to even look at, but if you want to use any of these, feel free. They are from a recent trip to the MapleLeaf Lodge in Blackville. There were a lot fish present, but they were slow to take. We had 8 rods fishing for 4 days (3 nights) and landed 4 grilse and one salmon (12 lbs). As I said, I took these photos, so feel free to use any of them.
John Brennan"

I also had a nice chat by phone with my good friend Dale Sutherland.

So the waiting game is on. With generally cooler weather, and with a few of the leaves beginning to change, take a canoe or kayak, and of course the old fishing rod and get out and "on the water".

P.S. Thanks to the large number of people who have signed up for the column and to those who have graciously agreed to sponsorship, as well as to those who have given feedback. We can still use more support and more sign-ups, so tell your friends. Send along your stories and photos.

Be sure to drop into Eskape Anglers in Riverview for all of your fishing needs, and pick up a few Carter’s Bugs (this is the time for them), get some fall patterns such as Ally's Shrimps and General Practitioners, and a few good stories from Bryant Freeman.

Another sponsor this week is Fredericton Outfitters & Anglers, operated by Chris Munn. He is the "authorized Dealer" for ORVIS fishing gear. It is also a good time to stock up on fall patterns here as well. We encourage anglers from that area, and those passing through, to drop into the shop located on 285 Canada St. Call (506) 450-4044 or contact chrismunn@frederictonoutfitters.com

All of these businesses and organizations support us, so let’s support them.

We also would like to thank a SECOND donor who made a contribution to keeping the column going. On behalf of me, Terry Matchett who does technical and business end of the column, and all who enjoy the column, we give a hearty THANK YOU for the support!

Thought for the Week: "Only those become weary of fishing, who bring nothing to it but the idea of catching fish".
Rafael Sabatini

Reminder:

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Congratulations are in order for 2009 Salmon Hall of Fame Inductees

The Atlantic Salmon Museum, Doaktown, N.B. will host its annual Hall of Fame Awards Banquet on Friday, September 25th, with a "meet and greet reception" at 5:30pm, followed by dinner at 6:30pm.

Inductees for 2009 are as follows:
read more on our website www.atlanticsalmonmuseum.com

Donald and Hudson (Tompy) MacKay, father and son (both deceased) will be inducted in the GUIDE category, where both gentlemen were employed as guides for many years. Donald was also a caretaker at Burnt Hill.

William Basco (Willy) (deceased) born in Hungary. He guided and worked as a caretaker for Wades, and later for the Campbell's and Keenan's pools in Blackville. He will be inducted in the GUIDE category.

The Rev. Walter Chandler Lynch, lives in Miramichi. He learned "fly tying" from a couple of friends but mostly self-taught. He will be inducted as both an ANGLER, and a FLY TYER.

Jacques Heroux (Dieppe) A member of the N. B. Salmon Council, and the N. B. Wildlife Association. He has been a guest tyer at some of the major Fly Fishing Shows in Canada and in 1999 he was the winner of the Atlantic Provinces Fly Tying Championship. He will be inducted as a FLY TYER.

The Guest speaker will be Doug MacDonald of Moncton. Doug is well known on the Miramichi, and is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Miramichi Salmon Association.

A limited number of tickets are available; please phone (506) 365-7787 for your ticket today. $35.00 each.

Menu:

• 6oz Salmon with egg sauce, mashed potatoes, fiddleheads, carrots, homemade roll, coffee/tea, and dessert.

Activities that evening include:

• Silent Auction
• Chinese Auction
• 50/50 tickets

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TIGHT LINES...
Doug