Tag Archives: Arizona Game and Fish

Extra trout stockings in White Mountains lakes to provide great fall fishing

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white-mountain-fishingPINETOP — The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) has recently stocked thousands of catchable size rainbow trout into many of the White Mountain lakes. This gives anglers an extra incentive to get out to the lakes this fall.

Show Low Lake was stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout. Bear Canyon and Willow Springs Lake received 5,000 fish each. Another 7,000 trout went into Woods Canyon Lake. Fool Hollow Lake and River Reservoir each received 8,000 trout.

The AZGFD hatcheries had a surplus of fish that needed to be stocked into lakes to make room for next year’s trout. These fish were all stocked within the last 2 weeks, and the fishing should be great—especially with the cooler temperatures of fall.

This time of year, try fishing for rainbow trout using green, garlic scented PowerBait or worms. Tiger trout were also stocked for the first time in Arizona this year into Willow Springs and Woods Canyon lakes. Catch tiger trout using lures—they are more aggressive than rainbow trout. Bear Canyon Lake is a hike-in-only lake, but worth the short, steep hike. All others are easily accessible.

Happy 20th anniversary to Arizona’s endangered black-footed ferrets

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ferretPHOENIX — Arizona’s endangered black-footed ferret population celebrated the 20th anniversary of its reintroduction to Arizona with the release of more animals into a new privately-owned reintroduction area. Through a new Safe Harbor Agreement, the Double O Ranch outside of Seligman yesterday became the third reintroduction site in Arizona.

‘This release was made possible by a Safe Harbor Agreement, a newer conservation option that aims to enlist the help of non-federal landowners to conserve species. We hope our new partnership with the Double O Ranch will lead to the establishment of Arizona’s third population and contribute to national recovery goals,” said Jennifer Cordova, the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s black-footed ferret program supervisor.

The species was thought to be extinct until a small colony of ferrets was discovered in Wyoming in 1981. Disease outbreaks reduced this population to about 18 individuals, which were captured to begin a captive breeding program to save the species. Before reintroduction, the last black-footed ferret in Arizona was found in 1931 in an area between Williams and Flagstaff.

The descendants of the original 18 ferrets have now been introduced into reintroduction sites across the west, including the Aubrey Valley outside of Seligman, Ariz. In 2008, Aubrey Valley was declared a successful reintroduction site by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as the population had become self-sustaining and no longer required augmentation.

Today, biologists estimate there are a minimum of 800 to 1,000 individual ferrets living in the wild.

While they resemble domestic pet ferrets, black-footed ferrets are a different species and are the only ferret native to North America. They can grow to be up to 2 feet long and can weigh up to 2 ½ pounds. One ferret can give birth to three to five kits each year.

The Arizona black-footed ferret reintroduction program is a joint effort of the Arizona Game and Fish Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Phoenix Zoo, U.S.D.A. APHIS Wildlife Services, Hualapai Nation, Navajo Nation, Arizona State Land Department, Babbitt Ranches and the Cholla Cattle Company.

Deadline to apply for 2017 spring hunt permit-tags is Tuesday, Oct. 11

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PHOENIX — Time is running out to apply for 2017 hunt permit-tags issued through the draw process for spring turkey, javelina, bison and bear.

To apply online, visit https://draw.azgfd.gov/ and scroll down to “Apply for a Draw.”

The deadline by which the Arizona Game and Fish Department must receive all applications – online or paper – is 11:59 p.m. (MST) Tuesday, Oct. 11. Postmarks do not count. Paper applications can be dropped off at the department’s headquarters in Phoenix or any regional office statewide.

As a reminder, all Game and Fish offices will be closed Monday, Oct. 10, in observance of Columbus Day. Offices will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on deadline day, Tuesday, Oct. 11, but applications still will be accepted until 11:59 p.m.

The “2017 Spring Turkey, Javelina, Bison and Bear Hunt Draw Information” booklet is available online at www.azgfd.gov/draw. Printed booklets are available at all Game and Fish offices and license dealers statewide.

As a reminder, applicants must possess a valid Arizona hunting license to apply online for a hunt permit-tag. That license must be valid on the last day of the application period (Oct. 11). Licenses now are valid for one full year from date of purchase. Licenses are available online, as well as all Game and Fish offices and license dealers statewide.

For more information, visit www.azgfd.gov/draw, or call (602) 942-3000.

Meanwhile, PointGuard is available to applicants who apply online for a hunt permit-tag. PointGuard, the newest benefit for AZGFD Portal customers, ensures that if a successful applicant is unable to participate in a hunt for any reason, the accumulated bonus points that were expended to draw that hunt permit-tag will be reinstated.

All applicants must sign up for a free AZGFD Portal account to purchase PointGuard (visit www.azgfd.gov, click on the “Sign in to Account” button in the upper right-hand corner of the home page, then select the “Create an Account” option). PointGuard is $5 per species, per applicant, purchased at the time of completing the online application, or prior to the application period deadline.

Fatal ATV rollover a reminder to practice OHV safety

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DSC_4103_-_reduced_flippedPHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department reminds all off-highway vehicle (OHV) drivers and passengers to ride safely by remembering to always wear a helmet.

The reminder comes after an 81-year-old man died when the ATV he was driving rolled end-over-end while attempting to climb a 70-percent incline hill southeast of Meadview early Friday afternoon, according to the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office. Neither the man nor another rider on a separate ATV were wearing helmets.

“Our condolences go out to the family,” said Kim Jackson, AZGFD OHV Safety Education program manager. “It is absolutely imperative that everyone wears a helmet whenever they head out on an OHV. Many of these tragic accidents are survivable, but only if you wear a helmet.”

There were 28 OHV-related deaths in Arizona last year, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Helmets are required by law for all riders under the age of 18 regardless of the off-highway vehicle type. They are also strongly recommended for all riders, regardless of age. In addition, riders should remember to:

  • Wear a seat belt at all times, if equipped.
  • Wear riding goggles, a long-sleeved shirt, pants, riding gloves and over-the-ankle boots.
  • Never ride alone.
  • Be prepared and equipped with a map, a first aid kit, whistle and have basic tools on hand.
  • Stay on designated trails.
  • Take an OHV safety education course designed to teach off-road motorists how to ride safely and responsibly.

For more information about the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s OHV program and safety course options, visit www.azgfd.gov/ohv.

Silver Creek seasonal trout fishery opens today

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silver-creekSHOW LOW — The seasonal catch-and-release fishery at Silver Creek opens Saturday, October 1.

This upper catch-and-release section of Silver Creek requires trout to be immediately released unharmed, and is artificial flies and lures only with single barbless hooks. This segment of Silver Creek is open for fishing from Oct. 1 through March 31 of each year.

See blog article of this announcement.

Contributions of hunters, anglers benefit everyone

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Free fishing clinic October 1 at Kinnikinick Lake

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

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

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

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

Participants should bring food and dress appropriately for fall weather.

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

Investigators seek tips to catch cow elk, calf poacher near Happy Jack

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operation_game_thief_footerFLAGSTAFF — The Arizona Game and Fish Department is investigating the poaching of a cow elk and her calf sometime between Sept. 7 and 9 in Game Management Unit 5A near Happy Jack.

Game and Fish officers received information that the cow elk and calf had been shot from Highway 87 near Happy Jack, which is about 40 miles south of Flagstaff. The poaching was reported in an effort to help the department catch the suspected poacher(s).

“We hope the public will again come forward to help us bring this poacher to justice,” said Game and Fish Wildlife Manager Garrett Fabian. “Poaching isn’t hunting. It’s a crime against all Arizonans, and our sportsmen and women have shown a long, committed history of helping the department combat poaching.”

Anyone with information about the case can call the Department’s Operation Game Thief Hotline toll-free at (800) 352-0700 or use the online form at www.azgfd.gov/thief. Callers should reference case number 16-003184.

Callers may remain confidential upon request. A reward of up to $1,500 is being offered in this case for information leading to the arrest of the violator(s). To learn more about Operation Game Thief, visit www.azgfd.gov/thief.

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of endangered California condors in Arizona at a public release on Sept. 24

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condorPHOENIX — Endangered California condors will be released to the wild in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in northern Arizona at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24. The public is welcome to observe the release from a viewing area where spotting scopes will be set up, and experts will be available to answer questions.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the reintroduction of condors to Arizona. In December 1996, six captive-bred condors were released. It was the first time condors had been seen in the state since the early 1900s. Now more than 73 condors fly free in the Grand Canyon region and southern Utah.

“Arizona is recognized as a national leader in wildlife conservation, as the California condor reintroduction project demonstrates,” said Arizona Governor Doug Ducey. “This is another great example of the Arizona Game and Fish Department forging successful ‘boots-on-the-ground’ conservation partnerships for the benefit of all Arizona wildlife.”

The release also coincides with National Public Lands Day, the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance America’s public lands.

The world’s total population of California condors is 430, with more than half gracing the skies of Arizona, Utah, California and Mexico. Condors were reduced to just 22 individuals in the 1980s when a program was started to save the species from extinction.

“The department began discussing the possibility of reintroducing endangered California condors in 1985. It’s amazing to now see more than 70 birds flying free in northern Arizona-southern Utah, and the success of our adaptive management efforts along the way,” said Larry Voyles, director of the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

Condors are hatched and reared in captivity at The Peregrine Fund’s World Center for Birds of Prey in Idaho, Oregon Zoo, Los Angeles Zoo and San Diego Wild Animal Park and transported to Arizona for release to the wild.

Recovery and reintroduction cooperators include The Peregrine Fund, Arizona Game and Fish Department, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Kaibab and Dixie national forests.

To view the condor release, drive north on Highway 89 out of Flagstaff. Turn left (west) onto Highway 89A toward Jacob Lake and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Drive about 40 miles past Marble Canyon until you turn right onto House Rock Valley Road (BLM Road 1065). Travel about three miles to a shaded viewing area on the right. On top of the cliffs to your east will be the location where the condors are released.

Condors have been federally listed as endangered since 1967. The condor is the largest flying land bird in North America. The birds can weigh up to 26 pounds and have a wingspan of up to 9 1/2 feet.

Volunteers needed for Mule Deer Foundation project Oct. 1-2

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WICKENBURG — The Mule Deer Foundation’s Arizona Southwest Chapter is seeking volunteers Oct. 1-2 for a water distribution project at Date Creek Ranch, north of Wickenburg.

Date Creek Ranch is a 38,000-plus-acre working cattle ranch in Game Management Units 20C and 44A. Like many ranches in the Southwest, it faces water distribution challenges to some of the farthest reaches of its lease. A helicopter with a longline will be used to place several water-storage tanks and necessary pipelines throughout the property to benefit the cattle and resident wildlife.

A planning meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Sept. 30. There is a need for some volunteers who can depart from ranch headquarters as early as 5 a.m. Oct. 1, in order to be at various sites to receive the water-storage tanks from the helicopter crew. All volunteers are welcome any time Oct. 1-2. It is not mandatory to attend the planning meeting, or be available by 5 a.m. Oct. 1, to volunteer. No experience is necessary.

For more information, or to R,S.V.P., contact: Doug Clark, (623) 293-2371; Jeff Thurman, (623) 293-1727; Jim Lawrence, (623) 764-0249.

Camping is available (no recreational vehicle hookups) between U.S. Highway 93 and ranch headquarters. The project location is just north of highway milepost 178 (for a map, visit https://goo.gl/maps/FyVNdXHWKUt).

The foundation and Date Creek Ranch were brought together through the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s “Adopt-A-Ranch” program. Through this program, the foundation and AZGFD will be assisting the ranch in completing mutually beneficial projects.