|
|
  Fishin' with Capt. Gus! ~ North Carolina Angler Recognition Program
April 20, 2008
Much has been said and written about the “fish that got away.” Everyone has heard at least one such tale, often preceded by a qualifying statement such as, “This is no lie”, or “I know you won't believe this, but it’s the truth.” The tale usually ends when the giant fish gets away!
Not all of the big ones get away. The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission has an ongoing Angler Recognition Program for fishermen who land trophy fish that aren't state records, but still worthy of note.
According to information provided by the NCWRC, anglers who catch a fish exceeding the minimum weight or length, receive a “Trophy Fish” certificate featuring artwork representative of the species caught and suitable for framing. Those who catch six trophy fish of the same or a different species, receive a “Master Angler” certificate and a patch. Since either the length or weight can be used to certify the fish, anglers can practice catch and release.
Mountain trout, walleye, bass, perch and sunfish are among the thirty-five species included in the program. With so many types of eligible species, it is possible for an angler to receive one or more trophy citations this year.
The NCWRC minimum trophy fish weight an/or length requirements:- Largemouth Bass - 8 pounds or 24 inches
- Striped Bass - 10 pounds or 27 inches
- White Perch - 1 pound or 12 inches
- Bluegill - 1 pound or 11 inches
Details and application forms are available where fishing licenses are sold, online at www.ncwildlife.org or by calling the Division of Inland Fisheries at 919 682 2632. The application fee is $5.00.
Tips from Capt. Gus:
According to the NCWRC, “Fish length is determined by measuring a straight line (in other words, not along the curvature of the body), the distance from the tip of the closed mouth to the tip of the compressed caudal (tailfin).”
Upcoming Events:
“Introduction to Bass Fishing” - This free seminar conducted by Capt. Gus Gustafson will be at Gander Mountain, Exit 36, Mooresville, NC at 6:30 P.M. on Wednesday April 23, 2008. Call 704 658 0822 for additional information.
The Hot Spots of the Week: Bass and striper fishing has been very good in the backs of creeks and coves where fish are striking the surface at dawn and dusk. Shallow banks, points, and boat docks are holding bass throughout the day. Striper fishing has been excellent after dark around lighted boat docks.
The water level is currently 1.9' below full pond and dingy in spots. Water surface temperatures are in the upper fifties and low sixties.
Captain Gus Gustafson of Lake Norman Ventures, Inc. is an outdoor columnist and a full time professional fishing guide on Lake Norman, NC. Visit his web site, Fishin' With Gus! at www.FishingWithGus.com or call 704-617-6812.
For additional information e-mail Gus at Gus@LakeNorman.com
|
|
|
|
|
