WILDLIFE ALMANAC

Nevada Department of Wildlife Fall Issue - September 2010

Hunting for the

Perfect Shot
Learn how to take
wildlife photos from the
pros. (Page 8)
1 Nevada Department of Wildlife
 WILDLIFE ALMANAC
Nevada Department of Wildlife • Fall Issue • September 2010

Table of Contents
Quail Offer Hunters a Mixed Bag of Opportunity 3

Hunters Have a Number of New Regulations to be Aware of This Fall 4

Shooting Parks Nearing Completion 5

Hunting for the Perfect Shot 7

Volunteering with NDOW 13

Chukar Forecast 14

Archery Education Program on Target 15

Fall Fishing Forecast 17

Doing Your Homework Key to Hunting Success 25

Southern Nevada’s Fall Stripers 26

Published by the Nevada
Department of Wildlife
State of Nevada
Jim Gibbons, Governor
Nevada Department of Wildlife US Fish and Wildlife Service
Kenneth Mayer, Director Division of Federal Assistance
4401 North Fairfax Drive
Edit and Design Mailstop: MBSP-4020
Aaron Meier, Publications Coordinator Arlington, VA 22203

State Board of Wildlife Contributing Staff You may also write to the following:
Commissioners Chris Cheff, John Elliott, John McKay,
Scott Raine, Doug Nielsen, Martin Olson, Jon Director
Chairman Sjoberg, Kim Tisdale and Kim Toulouse Nevada Department of Wildlife
Dr. Gerald Lent, 1100 Valley Road
Vice Chairman This program or publication receives Reno, NV 89512-2817
Daryl Capurro funding through the Federal Aid in Wildlife
Thomas Cavin Restoration program as educational COVER PHOTO of an adult female
Charles Howell material. Federal Laws prohibit Redhead was taken by wildlife
Michael McBeath discrimination on the basis of race, color, photographer Tim Torell. To see more of
Hal Shrum national origin, age, disability, and sex. If his wildlife photos, go to his website at
Henry “Hank” Vogler you believe you have been discriminated http://digitalwildlifeimages.com.
Grant Wallace against in any NDOW program, activity, or
facility, please write to the following:

Nevada Department of Wildlife 2

Quail Offer Hunters a Mixed Bag of Opportunity
By Doug Nielsen

If they haven’t done so already, hunters who are anxious Quail tend to be more vocal and active during the cool
to get out in the field may want to add quail to their list of morning hours. This is a good time to stop and listen for
hunting options. These speedy birds love to run and hide but the easily recognizable gathering call of scattered quail. You
will explode from cover when crowded enough. And because may want to try your hand at using a commercially produced
they hit their top flight speed within three feet of the ground, call and waiting for the covey to answer. This will help you
quail provide a challenge to the most experienced shooter. locate a covey of quail to pursue. The different quail species
Nevada is home to three species of quail, including make a variety of sounds. You will want to learn how to
California, Gambel’s and mountain quail. This provides identify their sounds.
hunters with a mixed bag of hunting opportunity; however, Once you find a covey of birds split them up by applying
based on population numbers alone California and Gambel’s enough pressure to make them fly. They generally won’t fly
quail provide hunters with the best chance to put some meat far before landing and running again. If possible split the
in the freezer. Hunters looking for a challenge may want to covey again. The birds will then tend to hold in cover and
try their hand at bagging a brace of mountain quail. you can come back and
At one time the work the area for singles
Nevada Department of or doubles. This is where
Wildlife released scaled a well trained bird dog
quail in several areas, comes into play. Their
but remnants of the last nose is much better than
known population may yours or mine and they
have been seen in Nye will often find birds you
County as late as the or I can’t. Having a dog
1980s. If you happen to will also help to recover
come across scaled quail downed birds.
in your wanderings, folks If the quail outrun
at NDOW would like to you and you lose them,
know. take a seat and wait.
California quail are Usually the covey will
primarily found in the start calling for the others
northwestern part of within a half hour or so
Nevada though hunters and let you know where
may find some birds as they are. Then you
far east as western Elko can start your hunt all
County. Gambel’s quail over again. In sparsely
are a southern bird with vegetated areas quail
populations scattered will generally stick to
throughout Clark, Lincoln their ground game and
and Nye counties. often outrun you and
Mountain quail are found your dog. That’s why it’s
only in a handful of a good idea to focus on
places including remote areas with brush and
locations along the cover where the birds
California-Nevada state can hold and hide. They
line from Esmeralda will feel more secure and
County to Washoe be more likely to stay put
County. while you hunt ‘em up.
“The key to finding Quail, and other
quail in Nevada is finding game for that matter, can
water sources – both provide tasty table faire if you take the time to care for them
natural and manmade,” said Martin Olson, Southern Region in the field. When you down a bird it needs to be cooled off as
Hunter Education Coordinator for the Nevada Department of soon as possible. Take a couple of minutes and remove the
Wildlife. “Generally the birds are going to be within a couple entrails, which will hold heat and lead to spoilage. Remove
of miles of water. Also look for areas with good cover like you the crop as well. Then put the birds on ice as soon as you
might find in brushy draws.” can. You want to keep them clean, cool and dry.

3 Nevada Department of Wildlife


Hunters Have a Number of New Regulations to
be Aware of This Fall
Apprentice Hunting License Now Available
By John McKay
Nevada hunters have a new type of license available
and a host of new regulations to contend with for the 2010/11
hunting season. What species, where and/or how they’re
hunting will determine if any or all of these regulations apply.
However, regardless of where, when, how or what’s hunted,
it’s always the hunter’s responsibility to know the law before
they go afield.
Apprentice Hunting License - An apprentice hunting
license designed to entice more people to try hunting is now
on sale at Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) offices
statewide. The apprentice license allows anyone 12 and
older to hunt upland game and waterfowl (no tagged species)
for one season without first completing a Hunter Education
course. The apprentice must have never previously held
a hunting license in any other state or country and always
be accompanied by an adult mentor 18 or older who
holds a valid Nevada hunting license and signs a mentor
affidavit accepting legal responsibility for the apprentice
while hunting. The license is free, but the apprentice must
pay some associated fees and purchase applicable upland
game or duck stamps.
Wildlife Commission General Regulation (CGR) 374
– Amends Chapter 503 of the Nevada Administrative Code
(NAC) by adding a new section that reads “each person who
shoots and wounds any wildlife while hunting shall make
a reasonable effort to take that wildlife, including, without
limitation, pursuing and tracking it.” CGR 374 also makes it
legal to use illuminated nocks on arrows while hunting.
An artist’s rendition of one of the five recently constructed NDOW/NDOT wildlife
safety crossings along Hwy 93 in northeast Nevada.
Nevada Department of Wildlife 4
2010 Fall Wildlife Almanac
CGR 377 – Creates a process where a person with a
visual disability can apply for a scope permit that will allow
them to use a 1x magnification on a muzzleloading rifle during
muzzleloader only seasons. Hunters who wish to obtain
a scope permit must submit an application to an NDOW
license office with a physician’s certificate that certifies the
applicant has a visual disability that is not crrectible with
glasses or contacts. The permit is valid for one year from the
date it is issued.
CGR 380 – Outlines the procedures and deadlines for
withdrawing big game tag applications. This regulation, set
to go into effect for the 2011 tag application period, spells
out the details of withdrawing and resubmitting applications,
applying for bonus points after the application deadline under
certain circumstances and other matters related to applying
for big game tags.
CGR 383 – Strictly pertains to hunting near five recently
constructed NDOW/NDOT wildlife safety crossings along
Hwy 93 in northeast Nevada. Hunters are not allowed to
hunt or take any big game animal within a half-mile radius
of any of these crossings. Additionally, it is prohibited to
discharge a firearm from, upon, over or across a highway
wildlife crossing.
These descriptions only briefly describe and paraphrase
the actual regulations. Hunters should read all applicable
regulations in their entirety. Links to the full text of all Nevada
wildlife laws and regulations can be found on NDOW’s
website at http://www.ndow.org/law/regs/.

Shooting Parks Nearing Completion
Hunter Education Classes Now Held at New
Clark County Shooting Park
By Martin Olson
After 24 grueling years in which citizens and politicians
worked together to create public shooting range for residents
of Southern Nevada, the Clark County Shooting Park is now
in its eighth month of operation. Drive through on any open
day and you’ll find the public shooting ranges busy with
recreational shooters.
There is also a good chance you’ll find Nevada hunters-
to-be learning the ins and outs of safe and ethical hunting
practices at one of the Department of Wildlife (NDOW)
Hunter Education classes held regularly at the park.
The Clark County Shooting Park (CCSP) is located on
2,900 acres at the extreme northern end of the Las Vegas
Valley and stretches nearly three miles wide and 1 1/2
miles deep. Behind the park the Sheep Mountains create
a spectacular backdrop to the facility. Development of the
actual shooting areas, however, covers a much smaller area.
At full build out, including buildings and ranges, the entire
facility will utilize approximately 900 acres. The remaining
undisturbed land will serve as a noise buffer around the
shooting areas and provide increased safety for customers.
Currently, the 178-acre Public Module is the only portion
of the planned park to reach completion and includes the
Education Center, which serves as the on-site home of the
NDOW Hunter Education program. The Education Center
boasts three state of the art classrooms, featuring ceiling
5 Nevada Department of Wildlife
Clark County Shooting Park
mounted projectors along with built-in computers and
DVD players. Though the three rooms are primarily used
individually, they also can be combined to accommodate
larger groups or activities and seat up to 100 people.
Also available at the Education Center are three
lighted shooting ranges that are intended for basic training
exercises and future NDOW education workshops. Those
will include introductory-level archery, muzzleloading and
rifle-shooting courses. The three Education Center shooting
ranges include a 50-yard archery range, a 50-yard pistol
range and a 100-yard rifle range, and these ranges can only
be reserved by a qualified user group through the Shooting
Park administrative office. Reservations are not required
for the public shooting ranges located elsewhere on the
property.
“One of the impressive features of the Education
Center is the Hunter Safety Trail,” said Doug Nielsen,
Conservation Education Supervisor for NDOW’s Southern
Region. “Actually, there are two separate trails that provide
Hunter Education students with an opportunity to learn and
demonstrate safe gun handling skills in an outdoor setting
that replicates field conditions.”
The lighted Hunter Safety Trail includes a simulated
automobile and a real boat suspended on springs. There
is also a series of fences and a safe-zone-of-fire practice
station.
Each of the three Education Center classrooms has a
theme and carries a moniker that identifies the theme. One
is the Big Game Room, another is the Furbearer Room and
the last one is the Avian Room. In the appropriate classroom

is found indigenous mounted animals that reflect the room’s
name. Each classroom denotes indigenous mounted
animals found throughout Nevada.
Teaching tools available on site include the new non-
functioning training firearms produced by Remington and
the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA).
These training arms present a real life feeling and handling
experience for students. Instructors are also finding the new
training firearms very helpful due to the working safety and
action.
NDOW contributed $240,000 in Hunter Education
Section 10 funds over three years to help get the range
started.
New Humboldt County Shooting Park a Hit
with Shooters
By John McKay
Following the closure of the Humboldt County Shooting
Range in 2006, area sportsmen were left looking for a place
to shoot safely. Shortly after the range closed, the Humboldt
County Board of Commissioners sanctioned a committee of
concerned citizens and law enforcement officials to identify
sites for a new shooting facility.
After a lengthy search the commission approved a
suitable site on county owned land adjacent to the regional
landfill and a plan for two 50 yard pistol ranges, 100 yard and
400 yard rifle ranges and parking area in January 2008. With
land and plan in place the next step was securing funding to
build the range. $10,000 was appropriated by the county to
Humboldt County Shooting Range
2010 Fall Wildlife Almanac
build an access road and $40,000 raised from individuals,
local businesses and sportsmen’s organizations to start
construction. The first phase of the range opened to the
public in June 2008, but much more money was needed to
complete the project.
Enter the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) and its
shooting range grant program. Each year NDOW dedicates
up to $80,000 in federal Hunter Education Section 10 funds
for constructing or enhancing shooting ranges across
Nevada. Through this program the Humboldt Shooting
Range Committee, led by Winnemucca businessman Kent
Arrien, applied for and received an additional $80,000
towards the Shooting Park.
The NDOW grant funds made possible the construction
of a solar powered 1,800 sq. ft. education building, public
restrooms and other improvements. In its first two years
of operation the shooting park has received a tremendous
amount of use and strong community support. A second
$60,000 Section 10 grant from NDOW this fiscal year will
fund additional building and range improvements, including
a perimeter safety fence and signage that will help finish the
project and make it a place shooters and archers can use
and enjoy for many years to come.
Photo by Tim Torell
 2010 Fall Wildlife Almanac

Hunting for the Perfect Shot

Wildlife Photo Tips from the Pros
By Aaron Meier

Step by step you creep closer to your unsuspecting

prey. When you are as close as you can get without alerting
the animal, you prepare to take your shot, but that is when
you step on a twig...and snap!...the deer is off and running,
the shot is gone, and all that is left to do is kick and curse the
twig that ruined it all.
You probably shouldn’t take it so hard, there will be other
opportunities...but you just know it would have been a great
picture.
Most of us who enjoy the outdoors have come upon
scenes that we thought would have made for a nice picture.
Some of us have even tried to go out and capture a nice
wildlife picture only to have one, two, or 20 things go wrong
and wind up with a camera full of “interesting” photos.
The Nevada Department of Wildlife is fortunate enough
to have several talented photographers contributing images
to our publications and website. We thought it might be nice
to ask a few of these professionals to give a few tips to us
less experienced photographers. That way, maybe the rest
of us will be able to get away from having to explain to our
friends that the little blur in the right corner was a coyote.
Larry Neel is a 28-year veteran with NDOW who has
served most of those years as a nongame biologist in the
Wildlife Diversity Program. Larry bought his first camera, a
Canon AE-1, with savings from his first year of paychecks
from Spring Creek Rearing Station in 1983. Larry has
sold wildlife photos to Audubon Magazine, and exhibited
his prints at the Fallon Cantaloupe Festival, Shooting the
West, juried art exhibits at Oats Park Art Center in Fallon,
and three recent one-man shows in Reno. One of Neel’s
Nevada landscapes was recently selected to illustrate the
cover of the inaugural issue of The Nevada Review. He also
donates framed prints to various worthwhile fundraisers,
including Churchill Arts Council, Lahontan Audubon Society,
the Reno Pops Orchestra, Spring Wings Birding Festival,
and the Klamath Bird Observatory. Check out the full range
of his work at www.larryneelphoto.com.
Tim Torell has been a professional wildlife photographer
for more than eight years and has been named Photographer
of the Year by the Reno Photo Club several times. A native of
Nevada, Torell is currently under contract with NDOW. His
images can be found in many NDOW publications as well
as on the department website at www.ndow.org. Torell also
teaches several photography classes and group workshops.
To view more of his images, you can visit his website at
www.digitalwildlifeimages.com.

Story Continued on Following Page

Nevada Department of Wildlife 8

Photo by Tim Torell
Kim Toulouse is a 25-year veteran with NDOW and has
served 20 of those years with the Department’s Conservation
Education Division. Toulouse bought his first 35 mm camera,
a Yashica SLR while serving with the U.S. Air Force in 1976.
Kim has had photos published in a variety of publications
including the New York Times, Reno Gazette Journal and
magazines such as Nevada Magazine. Some of his sage-
grouse photos have been utilized in several government
publications. His photos also grace a number of websites.
WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
What are some of the things a person should do before
ever heading out to increase the chance of success on
a wildlife photography trip?
Neel: Know your target landscape, its habitats, the wildlife
community likely encountered, and their habits. Decide
your trip’s objectives – are you specifically out to “bag” some
great wildlife photos? Or are you out for other reasons
but hoping to snag a few wildlife photos if opportunity
arises? Are you interested in particular species that require
specialized preparation and search? Or are you just looking
for a quality wildlife encounter with premium photo quality
potential irrespective of species? I do a lot of wetland bird
photography, so I make a lot of trips to the wetlands through
the year knowing pretty much what the species encounter
potentials are on any given day – but once I get to the habitat,
I’m ready and content to take advantage of whatever quality
encounter presents itself. I don’t pass up an opportunity
to get close to an American avocet and get new captures
simply because I have a whole hard drive of avocet pictures
at home already. With photography, you are not talking
“heads on a wall”, or even “life list” – the opportunity to create
new art more exciting than anything you have in your image
library is always there.
Torell: The first thing I do before a wildlife photo outing is
do a “life history” search on the chosen subject. The more
I know about the subject the easier it will be to locate and
predict where the animal will be and what it will be doing.
9 Nevada Department of Wildlife
Once that is done and I feel comfortable with the subject I
view the chosen area on Google Earth. If I understand the
terrain it makes it much easier for me to locate the animal. If
I’m traveling alone I print a map of the area and leave it with
my wife. Should I get stuck, break down or injure myself and
not return home when I was supposed to, my wife will know
where to send help. It’s very important to stick to the map
and not wander away from the predetermined area.
Now it’s time to think about your camera equipment. Do
an equipment check the night before the outing. Make sure
the batteries are charged and you have plenty of memory on
your memory cards. If you are shooting film, make sure to
bring plenty.
Arrive at the chosen location at least 45 minutes before
sunrise. Set yourself in position with the sun at your back so
your subject will be front lit. Sit quiet and wait for the show to
begin.
Birds are a great subject to photograph. You don’t have
to go any further than your own back yard. Put up a bird
feeder and the birds will do their part, show up and eat the
food. If you place a perch next to and above the food the
birds will normally land on the perch then drop down to feed.
When on the perch of your choice that’s the time to take the
image.
Another great place to create images is your local park.
One trick to create stunning images is to lie down on the
ground and get to the ducks eye level or ground level.
Toulouse: Prepare. Make sure you have the correct lenses,
clothing, memory cards, etc. Go out with a specific subject in
mind, but be prepared to shoot anything at any time. Make
sure you are used to your camera and its format and size.
Know that what you see is not necessarily what you get.
Are there specific items a person should bring along
that they might not think of?
Neel: Extra camera batteries, extra flash batteries (you
might find yourself using a lot of fill flash under forest canopy,
etc.), extra digital cards, lots of water, bug spray, toilet paper.
Torell: Dress for success. Dress for the occasion. I usually
 2010 Fall Wildlife Almanac
wear earth tone clothing. to success is “get close and
Don’t wear bright white or Photo by Larry Neel get invisible”. Most of the
bright colors. You want to best wildlife photographers
blend into the surroundings in the world will tell you get
as much as possible. a big lens (300mm minimum,
During the summer 400-500mm and up better),
don’t forget sunscreen a tripod (to keep the big lens
and bug repellent. Getting stable), and a blind system
sunburned and fighting bugs (portable or floating or
all day can take the fun constructed on site). I don’t
out of a photo shoot. Bring use a blind much because I
plenty of drinking water and am basically lazy and don’t
a lunch. During the winter like packing around a lot of
months dress in layers. I find gear. But I have learned a lot
my mind only works as long about approaching wildlife
as my body is comfortable. and “removing my persona”
from the set-up to the point
Toulouse: Numerous small memory cards (around 4gb) that, although I would never argue against using a blind, I
rather than one or two big ones. It is easier to manage the don’t always need one to achieve the desired intimacy. For
smaller cards. A hat and gloves. Hat to keep the sun off and instance, if you see a western grebe working a certain water
gloves because morning light is cold. Don’t forget lots of structure because there are fish concentrated in oxygenated
extra batteries. Always have more than you think you need. stream flow, then you might temporarily spook the grebe
Once out in the field, what are some of the important when you approach your set-up spot, but if you approach
factors that would help in capturing a good picture? slowly and respectfully, lower your profile and avoid standing
Should a person find a nice spot and wait...should they out against a horizon, then get absolutely quiet and still for a
walk around until they find something? while, pretty soon that grebe is going to 1) be anxious to get
back to its hunt, and 2) even a little bit curious about what
Neel: Depends on your trip objectives. If you want something you are doing. The subject will let you know when it has
specific, like a kit fox, you’ll probably have to have done become comfortable with your presence by reoccupying its
your scouting or taken a tip from someone and set up on space and resuming its activities. After a while, you can even
an active den where the likelihood of a close encounter is move your arms s-l-o-w-l-y to work your camera, relieve your
high. If you are working a wetland, you might have to move cramped muscles and circulation, etc. as long as you don’t
around until you find something interesting, then you want to do anything quick or otherwise threatening to the subject. It
get down, get still and quiet, and let your subject get used is when you have achieved this “harmony” with the subject
to your presence. Sitting and waiting without scouting and/ that the best photos come and you eventually walk away
or a specific expectation of something coming by is not a from the encounter saying, “Man, that was cool…!” I live for
particularly productive strategy. those moments.
The other element of wildlife photography that is critical Story Continued on Following Page

Photo by Larry Neel

 Photo by Kim Toulouse
Torell: For the most part I Toulouse: Try to take candid
like to use a hunting blind. shots where and when
There are many hunting wildlife is relaxed. Some
blinds to choose from. I of the best shots are when
use a chair blind for many wildlife is unaware of the
species of birds. Figure out photographers presence. In
where the birds want to be. other words, not looking right
Upon arrival, the birds will at the camera. Sometimes
flush. Set up your chair you have to “stumble around”
blind and wait for them to to find your subject. But, do
return. It will take a few not approach wildlife head
minutes (30 minutes or on; get downwind, approach
so) but they will return. If on a diagonal line, don’t look
you sit quietly they will go directly at the animal, they
about their normal activity. stay more relaxed. Scout
Many of the same techniques used in hunting prove to be ahead of time and know where you want to be and when
successful during a photo hunt. you want to be there. Set up a blind several days ahead of
Spot and stalk is a hunting technique used by many time if possible.
hunters. It can be very successful for photographers as well.
I use binoculars or a spotting scope to locate my species of If you had to come up with the most important piece
choice then determine the best way to approach. of advice for having an enjoyable day taking wildlife
There are several things to consider: photos, what would it be?
• Wind- try not to let the animals pick up your scent.
• Line of sight - Try not to let them see you. Stay off the Neel: My most precious piece of advice for enjoying your
ridge tops. You stand out on a ridge top. day afield with camera is to take whatever Nature gives you
• Lighting - Its all about the lighting. Keep the sun at your and do your best to make art with it. Don’t cuss the killdeer
back. because it isn’t a mountain plover, or the three-year old
• Things not to do... Animals have a very acute sense of bighorn ram because it isn’t a Boone and Crockett monster.
smell, sight and hearing. Sure, you may not be able to sell your three-year-old ram
• Don’t slam the door on the car or truck. photo to a magazine, but it is the opportunity that presented
• Don’t talk loud, if you must talk use a whisper. itself that day and the thrill of the experience will stay with
• Don’t wear perfume or scented deodorant. you forever; in addition, the things you learned getting close
• Don’t smoke. will inform your approach next time when it may indeed be
• Do walk slow and observe the surroundings. the “life bird” or “monster rack.” Never pass up a chance
• Most of all enjoy our great outdoors. to work on approach technique and camera technique. It is

Photo by Kim Toulouse


Photo by Larry Neel
during those times when you have less at stake in subject
matter that you learn to focus your attentions on your
exposure to maximize your image quality. Relax and work
on your technical discipline to fine-tune your subconscious
routine that kicks in by default when that “magazine cover”
is in your viewfinder.
Torell: Be prepared, luck favors the well prepared.
Toulouse: PATIENCE! One of my biggest problems is a
serious lack of time and everything having a deadline. Relax
and take your time.
Do you have any interesting or amusing stories from
photo trips you have taken?
Neel: I was driving between Penticton and Oliver, British
Columbia in April of 2009. As I approached the bridge
across the Okanogan not far north of Oliver, something told
me I should be on the lookout for special birds around the
bridge, and I swear, the thought popped up that this part
of the world might be a good place to be on the lookout
for red-necked grebes. As I crossed the bridge, I became
aware of two sleeping waterbirds on the dam pond below the
bridge (on the right) sitting in the pool between the dam and
its protection booms (floating telephone poles), and sure
enough, I could tell they were red-necked grebes. There
was a bit of a pullout on the south side of the bridge and
there seemed to be public access down to the boom pond,
so I parked the car, grabbed the camera, and shinnied down
to the water’s edge, sat and got quiet.
The birds remained on the other side of the booms, and
it took them a while to stir. I took a few shots of the male even
though it was pretty far away and I knew they wouldn’t be
great shots – but it was a red-necked grebe and I didn’t know
when I would get any other chance. After a few minutes, the
male began to get curious about me, and he moved down to
the gap between two of the boom poles where he waited for
the female to become aware of what was going on. Soon
enough, she responded to some kind of silent signal and
moved down to the gap with the male where she finally (I
Nevada Department of Wildlife 12
2010 Fall Wildlife Almanac
might say reluctantly) took the initiative to put her head down
close to the water and “sneak” through the gap first with the
male hunkered down behind her, obviously using her for
“cover”. They moved into the near pond to within about 15m
(50 ft) of me before the female had seen enough and was
reluctant to come any closer. They more or less stopped in
place and both began to preen. By this time I was shooting
away.
After preening, they settled back into their “asleep”
posture, but of course, they weren’t asleep – they were intently
watching me. They drifted around for several minutes before
the male began to get “jumpy” – that is, he was hopping a
bit over his paddling rhythm as if restraining some energy
surge from within. In his growing excitement, he bumped
the female from behind, which startled her into a heads-up
“That DOES IT!” alert and the two of them then engaged in
a short calling display in which they sat up facing each other
on their haunches and twisted in opposite directions for less
than ten seconds. I was ready and shot five or six images of
the modest but still electrifying interaction.
Torell: In July, I set up a blind with a friend of mine near a
spring in the Nevada desert east of Reno. While we knew that
the spring was a popular destination for the area’s wildlife, I
would never have guessed just how popular it was. During
the next three days I was able to capture some of the most
amazing images. Patiently waiting for Nevada’s wildlife to
come visit me at the spring, I was able to capture hundreds
of images of chukar, desert bighorns, and antelope.
That weekend spent at the water hole with my friend
will be with me for the rest of my life. For me photography
makes me slow down and see life as it really is. Each day
spent observing wildlife makes me a wiser person. There
is a lesson to learn from all creatures large and small if you
only take the time to observe.
Toulouse: Some of the best shots I ever got were totally
by accident. In other words TAKE YOUR CAMERA
EVERYWHERE! When you don’t have it with you is when
you will have the opportunity for that award winning shot.
Volunteering with NDOW
By Kim Toulouse
Ever since the beginning of what is called the Nevada
Department of Wildlife, volunteers have provided incredibly
valuable services for the citizens and wildlife of the state. The
agency’s first Annual Report to the Governor in 1877 makes
reference to volunteer help from the Virginia and Truckee
Railroad, the Central Pacific and numerous individuals in
saving the state money and providing services.
So, why do people volunteer and who are these crazy
people who work for free? I recently sat down with Bob
Inscho, one of NDOW’s long-term volunteers and asked him
a series of questions; the questions and answers are here.
Why do you volunteer?
Inscho: I volunteer for a variety of reasons, but one of the
first and foremost is to get
away from the “to do” list of
things that are not normally
done by other people.
How long have you
been volunteering with
NDOW?
Inscho: I started
volunteering in 2000 with a
seed collection project near
Bordertown. It was right
after the fires of 1999 and it
was being done to assist in
the restoration efforts. Just
seemed like a good idea at
the time and I have kept at
it ever since.
What activities have you
volunteered or participated in for NDOW?
Inscho: I have participated in seed collection (not my
favorite by the way!), elk capture, sheep captures, antelope
captures, fish spawning, fin clipping (in other words cutting
off their little arms and legs!), sage grouse lek surveys, and
bear work. I have also captured lots of quail over the years.
You mention seed collection is not your favorite; what
is and why?
Inscho: I would say my favorite is bear capture work. I
get the opportunity to find out if the bear is smarter than the
NDOW volunteer. It’s kinda like having your own adventure
TV series. I get to be out and about on someone else’s
dime, get to go lots of interesting places and go by locked
gates (with permission, of course!)
As a volunteer, where are some of the places you have
been and which is your favorite?
Inscho: I have had the opportunity to travel to Mt. Jefferson
on sheep captures, the Sheldon, McGee Mountain and
13 Nevada Department of Wildlife
some pretty cool places in the Pinenuts. My favorite place
is Little Valley because of the cool things you can see; like
Hannah’s Hideaway, Red House, and of course a secret
Artesian water spring only a few people know about. I get
the opportunity to do things and see things that most people
don’t even know exist.
Sometimes volunteering is not very convenient; how
does your wife feel about it?
Inscho: Well, she still lets me go, so it must be okay. Maybe
she enjoys it more than I do, because I am not in the house!
Do you have any interesting stories about volunteering?
Inscho: Well, I guess one of the best is how I got roped
in to taking temperatures on
sheep captures. Looked
like a pretty simple job so
one of my co-volunteers
“volunteered” me. After they
handed me the thermometer
they handed me a glove and
said “we only need you to
collect a few pellets while you
are at it!”
What have you learned from
your volunteer experience?
Inscho: I have learned a
ton of stuff about wildlife; it’s
really cool to talk to people
who have a clue about what
is going on with and in wildlife
management. Another
thing I did not know prior to volunteering is just how much
sportsmen support wildlife; not only through the purchase of
tags and licenses, but through all their other activities and
donations. They build guzzlers, provide financial support for
captures and other scientific work. I also enjoy meeting and
working with all the people and doing new things.
Bob Inscho is a retired Rocket Scientist and is 76 years
old. During his illustrious career, he worked on the Gemini
and Apollo manned space flight programs and the Hubble
space telescope. He is married and lives with his wife in
Spanish Springs, north of Sparks, NV. During his tenure as
a volunteer, he has contributed almost 7,000 miles and more
than 900 hours of time to the Department.
While our hats go off to Bob, he is just one of the many
dedicated volunteers participating in a wide variety of NDOW
activities. We salute each and every one of our volunteers
and appreciate their contributions to Nevada’s wildlife. If you
would like more information on volunteering, please visit our
web site at http://ndow.org/learn/vol/recruiter/.
 2010 Fall Wildlife Almanac

Chukar Forecast
By Jake Sunderland

Every year as fall gets closer chukar hunters start getting

antsy. They look towards the hills, clean their guns and start
working with their dogs. They know they have to to wait until
October before opening weekend, but they also know the
Nevada Department of Wildlife’s (NDOW) annual Chukar
Hunting Forecast will be released in early September and
will tell them what to expect for the upcoming season. This
year, they have something to be excited about.
“For the most part, results look pretty positive. I expect
for Nevada hunters to have a better season than last
season,” said Shawn Espinosa, upland game specialist at
NDOW.
Based off of helicopter and ground surveys, Nevada
bird numbers are above the long term average in terms of
number of birds counted per square mile. The 2010 – 2011
chukar hunting season is set to be better than the previous
two seasons.
When forecasting the chukar hunting season it’s
important to look at what has happened over the entire
year. In 2009 Nevada saw increased production which gave
its chukar population a good place to start, Nevada also
experienced a wet October.
“That really helped set the stage for what happened
in November, December and January; precipitation really
dropped off during those months, but we had fall “green-up”
going into the winter and then pretty mild conditions through
March,” said Espinosa. “Then in April things turned around
again and we saw precipitation events and winter like
conditions through June. That probably held off production
and nesting, early nesters were probably subject to some
pretty harsh conditions which affected production and
those birds that chose to nest later or re-nested were more
successful than earlier birds.”
Because of these favorable conditions, hunters will be
pleased to hear that for most areas chukar hunting will
be good and even excellent in some. The key will be
finding the right spots to hunt.
“There is a bit of a mixed bag to expect,” said
Espinosa. “As is the case with most hunts, scouting
the area you are considering hunting will be
crucial. There is also the youth hunt. What better
excuse for people with kids to get out and look
around and get an idea of what to expect for the
season while getting their kids out of the house.”

Santa Rosas: Conditions in the Santa Rosas

look good for this season. While a difficult place to hunt, with

Continued on next page

Nevada Department of Wildlife 14

87 birds observed per square mile, hunters can expect to do
well there if they wait until the snow falls and pushes birds
down to the lower elevations.
Double H: NDOW biologists saw decent numbers in
the Double H range with 62 birds per square mile. However,
only a few young birds were observed in this area so hunting
may be more difficult.
Jackson Mountains: Jackson Mountain populations
are down approximately 47% compared to last year
with 56 birds per square mile. Hunting is expected to
be poor.
Pine Forest Range: “Things look
pretty good in the Pine Forest Range,
although the numbers were down
there compared to last year and
with the hunter congestion
here we suggest that hunters
look for alternative places
to hunt just because of
Archery Education Program on Target
By Chris Cheff
When the Nevada Department of Wildife (NDOW) first
launched its Archery Education Program in late October of
2009, there was much anticipation as to how it would be
received by the community and schools. The National
Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) is the largest
component of the Archery Education Program. NASP is a
4 - 12 grade in curriculum P.E. program offered in 47 states
across the country with over 1.5 million participants last year
alone. Students learn the skills of international style target
archery in their physical education classes while shooting in
their school gym. Schools that become involved with Nevada
NASP are directed on how to start up their own after school
archery program in order to allow for more practice time and
to allow those students who don’t have P.E. an opportunity
to become involved.
Most participating states conduct a state tournament
for NASP schools. NDOW conducted its first Nevada
NASP State Tournament on Feb. 18, 2010 at the Riviera
Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas in conjunction with the
15 Nevada Department of Wildlife
the sheer number of hunters that go there,” said Espinosa.
“It may be the most popular hunting destination for chukar
hunters in the United States.”
Washoe County: Parts of Washoe County continue to
have high populations of birds. Due to fire in the Granite Range
earlier in July the high numbers may be artificial and as the
season progresses birds may move away from water sources
and hunting conditions will likely be similar to last year.
Pershing County: Due to dry conditions,
hunting opportunity and covey sizes looked
average.
Eastern/North Central Nevada: Areas
around Battle Mountain and Lander County
should provide really good hunting opportunities
for hunters looking to travel. The General Rim area
and Rock Creek look very good this year.
Those interested in reading the entire chukar
forecast can find it online at ndow.org/hunt/resources/
Wildlife_Heritage/upland_game/.
National Field Archery Association’s
World Archery Festival. This was
accomplished just four months after
the introduction of the program to
schools. The tournament hosted 130
student participants representing six of
the nine, at that time, active NASP schools.
From those 130 shooters, 30 qualified students made their
way to Louisville, KY to represent their respective schools
and the state of Nevada, at the NASP Nationals during the
first weekend of May.
By the end of May, there were 24 schools in Nevada
currently participating in NASP. Twenty-one of those schools
are from Clark County. The 2010-11 school year shows
great promise for bringing many more schools into the
Nevada NASP. The 2011 Nevada NASP State Tournament is
scheduled for Feb. 10 again at the Riviera Hotel and Casino.
Now with the start of a new school year upon us, NDOW
is seeking out schools to join the fun and excitement of this
 2010 Fall Wildlife Almanac
great program. Once the Warden and U.S. Park
students pick up a bow Ranger to ensure
Target practice during a
in their P.E. class, they everyone is familiar with
have a hard time putting bowfishing clinic at Veteran’s the stipulations involved
it down. Memorial Park Pond. with their new found
NDOW also sport.
facilitates classes for the Finally, the
community members students are provided
as part of the Archery two hours to utilize
Education Program. the provided NDOW
Introduction to Archery equipment to try their
affords those who either hand at shooting
have very little, or no submerged carp targets
archery experience at along a designated
all, a chance to come out shoreline of the pond.
and learn about standard Here’s what one
archery equipment, form, and technique in a classroom participant had to say about the class:
setting. Afterwards, the participants will have just over two
hours to apply their skills on the archery range. These Dear Mr Cheff,
classes are currently being offered at the Clark County I wanted to thank you again for the bowfishing class
Shooting Park Education center in Las Vegas. Saturday morning. I did not expect such a thorough
Another popular class being offered is Introduction to presentation on the laws, description of equipment and
Bowfishing. Currently conducted at Boulder City’s Veteran’s training that was provided. Not only am I aware of how I can
Memorial Park Pond, students learn about all different types legally go about this hobby (special thanks to the Fish and
of bowfishing equipment; arrows, rest, points, and retrieval
Game officer), but I feel confident enough to successfully
systems. Safety and ethics are also a keynote discussion
during the class. Nevada and U.S. Park Service bowfishing bowfish even though I have very little archery experience!
regulations and statutes are covered by an NDOW Game
Sincerely,
Greg E. (43, Las Vegas, NV)

Students take part in the first ever National

Archery in the Schools Program Nevada
State Championship Tournament, Feb. 18.

Nevada Department of Wildlife 16

Fall Fishing Forecast
By John McKay, Kim Tisdale, Jon Sjoberg
and John Elliott

Fall fishing in Nevada is some of the best fishing of
the year, with both brown and brook trout heading into the
spawn with absolutely brilliant colors that match the autumn
leaves. Other fish are getting ready for winter by putting on
the feedbag in preparation for colder or ice-covered waters.
Some anglers believe the secret to fall fishing is to
think big and go slow. While many bait anglers swear by
PowerBait©, worms can be more effective floated off the
bottom either with something like a marshmallow or by
inflating them. Presentation of lures, spinners and flies
should be slowed down just a bit, especially if targeting warm
water species. Here are some of the waters that Nevada
Department of Wildlife fisheries biologists are recommending
in Nevada this fall.
EASTERN NEVADA
Cave Lake
Fishing should remain excellent throughout the fall at Cave
Lake. The reservoir has been at capacity throughout the
year and is scheduled to receive 10,000 catchable rainbow
trout from August through the end of October. Worms,
PowerBait©, and spinners should work for the spin fishermen
while wooly buggers and traditional nymphs should be
productive for those with a fly rod. Anglers after trophy
brown trout should try fishing the south end near the Cave
Creek inlet in November.
Illipah Reservoir
Water levels are extremely low. The reservoir has remained
at or near minimum pool since early-July. That being said,
fishing has remained very productive and anglers can
expect water levels to increasingly improve throughout fall.
Depending on water conditions, the reservoir is scheduled to
receive 7,500 hatchery-reared rainbows in October. Spring-
stocked rainbows are averaging 12 inches while carryover
fish are in the 14-18 inch range. Brown trout numbers and
size in the reservoir have shown notable increases in recent
years. Keep an eye out for big caddis and mayfly hatches at
dusk. Recent survey work showed high densities of brown
trout in Illipah Creek above the reservoir.

17 Nevada Department of Wildlife


Comins Lake
The illegally introduced population of northern pike has
effectively decimated populations of both trout and bass at
the reservoir. A few adult bass are still available, but trout
have not been observed in two years. Average length of
pike is shrinking and survey data suggests the population is
currently in the midst of a crash. Most pike run in the 18-24
inch range. Flashy, colorful lures will get the attention of pike
as they are ambush predators.
Cold Creek Reservoir
Water levels have remained stable throughout the summer
and should remain so into fall. The reservoir is scheduled
to receive 1,500 hatchery rainbow trout in October. Fishing
should remain good for recently stocked, as well as carryover
trout. In addition, a number of largemouth bass have been
augmented at the reservoir in the past couple years as a
means of control for the nuisance population of chubs.
Remember that the limit for bass is five with a 10-inch size
limit.
Nevada Department of Wildlife 18
2010 Fall Wildlife Almanac
White Pine County Streams
Creeks in White Pine County to fish include Cleve, Steptoe,
Cave and White River. Dead drifting grasshoppers or worms
through the pools and runs is often very effective. Small
spinners can be used in sections where there are adequate
flows. As for flies, start with terrestrials and then switch to
nymphs such as Zug Bugs, PT’s, Prince and Hare’s Ears.
In deeper stretches nymph droppers below a hopper or a
beetle is a good way to keep the nymph off the bottom.
Ruby Lake NWR
Following a productive summer of quality largemouth bass
fishing, bass fishing will be winding down this fall as water
temperatures begin to drop. The south lake, south springs,
and the collection ditch have been stocked with rainbow
trout, tiger trout, and brown trout for the last couple of years
and trout fishing should be good. In the south lake, targeting
deeper water and spring sources will increase your chances
of contacting some larger trout. Spinners, spoons, and
Continued on next page
lures are productive for spin fishermen, while dark wooly
buggers, leach patterns, and nymphs are popular with fly
fishermen. The south spring ponds are easy to access and
can be fished with anything from PowerBait© to fly rods.
The collection ditch has an artificial lures only regulation
and can regularly produce trout over 3 pounds. Spinners,
lures, leech patterns, and nymphs are very popular in the
collection ditch and getting out and walking stretches of the
ditch can get you into areas of less pressure and large fish.
South Fork Reservoir
Many anglers wait for fall to plan their fishing trips to
South Fork Reservoir, as fishing can be excellent from
late September to the end of November. Recently anglers
have been producing limits of 16 to 20-inch fish with the
occasional 23 or 24-inch fish being taken. Nightcrawlers
floated off of the bottom are the ticket for shore anglers, while
Rapala type lures or flashers tipped with a worm produce
for trollers. Flyfishers should use wooly bugger or leach
patterns fished on an intermediate sinking line from a float
tube or canoe. Blood or brown appear to be the best colors
in the fall, followed by olive, purple and black. Don’t forget
to add streamer type patterns such as muddler minnows or
clousers to your fly box when heading to South Fork. Black
bass are on structure and crankbaits, as well as swim baits
should be effective. Many of the local bass fishermen in the
area like to use darker patterns and colors.
Wildhorse Reservoir
This water has quality fish (trout, wipers and catfish) as
anglers regularly catch trout up to 20-inches. The best time
for fall fishing is mid-September until early November, with
shore anglers catching as many fish as boat anglers and
larger fish often showing up in the fall. Like South Fork,
Rapala type lures and flashers tipped with worms are working
for trollers, while gold spoons and spinners as well as worms
floated off of the bottom are working for shore fisherman.
Wildhorse Reservoir
Flyfishers should use much the same arsenal as South Fork.
Perch are doing well and many fish are in the 10 to 12 inch
class. The secret is finding them; if you don’t get perch within
a half hour of fishing, move to a new spot. Most fish can be
caught with a small jig tipped with a worm or just a worm on
a red hook. Jigs should be brightly colored with chartreuse
or fluorescent orange being popular. Flyfishers can catch
perch with small flies like Zug Bugs, prince nymphs or small
crystal buggers.
Wilson Reservoir
This out of the way reservoir is another good body of water
to hit, though fishing tends to slow down earlier than other
waters. The upside is that you can hunt chukar in the area
and have a weekend of cast and blast. This water should
be fished much the same way and with the same gear as
South Fork.
Elko County Streams
Many Elko County streams are very fishable this time of
year. Falling leaves are a Catch 22; it makes it easier to
get to streams through the riparian brush, but sometimes
there are mats of leaves covering very productive water.
Most streams that hold fish will produce until the water
temperatures dip too low, generally by the end of October
or the beginning of November depending upon the location.
Popular streams include Lamoille Creek, Tabor Creek,
Owyhee River, south fork of the Humboldt River, Bruneau
River and the Jarbidge River. If any terrestrials are present,
start with those patterns, otherwise any nymph made with
peacock herl should be productive. Using a real grasshopper
or worm without any weight through runs or riffles is another
good technique. Small spinners can be effective in larger
runs or pools.
SOUTHERN NEVADA
Lake Mead
Lake Mead has year-round fishing for
a variety of species including striped
bass, largemouth and smallmouth bass,
channel catfish, bluegill, rainbow trout,
tilapia, bullhead catfish, black crappie,
and green sunfish. Despite low lake
levels, Lake Mead continues to have
high angler success rates averaging
over 1 fish per angler hour and 4.7 fish
per angler day, according to 2009 creel
census data. Striped bass angling this
fall and winter should be good for 15
to 16-inch fish due to an increase in
shad production in the Las Vegas Bay
this past spring. Striper are often taken
in the Boulder Basin area from Boxcar
and Pumphouse Cove northwest to Las
Vegas Bay. In the Overton Arm area,
Stewart’s Point and Meathole are favorite
sites for catching striper. As winter
approaches, striper will move to deeper
Nevada Department of Wildlife
waters. They can be caught
using anchovies, shad and Lake Mohave
top-water plugs as well as
lures such as Sassy Shad
and Kastmasters. Rainbow
trout stocking will start in
November and continue until
March at Hemenway and
Crawdad Cove. Trout fishing
is expected to be good on
the day of the plants and fair
on days after. Stocking days
will be on Tuesdays for the
months of November and
December and on Fridays
for the months January
through March. Anglers
should be aware that
because of very low water
levels in Lake Mead this Adams-McGill Reservoir
fall, access may be difficult and adjustments may have to Adams-McGill Reservoir is a man-made reservoir located on
be made to release locations for trout stocking. Black bass the Kirch WMA that maintains a self-sustaining largemouth
fishing should be average with smallmouth bass catches on bass fishery, as well as a put-and-take rainbow trout fishery.
the rise with many fish caught near Callville Bay and The Bass angling is slow until water temperatures reach 60°F,
Narrows. Catfish angling should slow as water temperatures which occurs about mid-May and continues to be good
cool, however, these fish are still taken during the winter by through October, when angling success drops off due to
fishing the bottom with baits like anchovy, liver, and prepared colder water temperatures. Trout fishing starts in February
catfish baits. and continues through June, slowing in the summer, and
Lake Mohave then picking up again in mid-September through November.
Striped bass fishing on Lake Mohave will likely be below Approximately 8,000 9-inch rainbow trout will be stocked this
average this fall. Although large striped bass are still fall. Artificial lures (artificial worms) are the most popular bait
occasionally caught in the reservoir, poor recruitment has for bass, while artificial flies and lures as well as PowerBait©
limited the number of smaller striped bass available for works best for trout. Anglers have reported great success
anglers. Largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing should for rainbow trout up to 20 inches in length. Largemouth bass
be fair to good. Smallmouth bass continue to increase in populations have responded well, but large bass are rare.
numbers in Lake Mohave. The channel catfish fishery has Using a float tube to access deeper water areas in the lower
been a consistent producer through the years and should reservoir has often yielded the largest trout.
continue to be good to excellent this fall. Excellent fishing Cold Spring Reservoir
for bluegill can be found anywhere on the lake you find Cold Springs Reservoir is another reservoir located on Kirch
brush and aquatic vegetation, the exception being the cold WMA that also maintains naturally reproducing largemouth
waters of Black Canyon. Rainbow trout fishing will be fair bass and stocked rainbow trout fisheries. Artificial lures,
to good in the vicinity of stocking locations. Willow Beach spinner baits and rubber worms are the most commonly
is stocked year-round and is the primary trout fishing area. used methods for bass. Water temperatures drop below
Trout stocking at Placer Cove and Aztec Wash will begin in 60°F in October and the bass fishing slows. Rainbow trout,
November as surface waters cool. on the other hand, are available year-round, with the best
Colorado River below Davis Dam months (highest success rates) being March through June
Fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass should be and September through October. If and when ice becomes
fair in backwater areas along the river, Laughlin Lagoon thick enough to support anglers, winter trout fishing can
in particular. There is an abundant population of redear produce fish. Angling should be good for largemouth bass
sunfish in the river and backwater areas, some of which 10-inches or more in length. Trout fishing should be good
grow to a pound or more. Anglers also have had success this fall and coming spring. Water storage should be about
fishing in backwaters and lagoons for bluegill. Striped bass average this year with good success for boat anglers. Shore
fishing in the river can be hit or miss in the fall as striper are angling access is best off the lower dike south of the boat
migratory. Generally striper move upriver in the spring and ramp.
by fall most of the fish have moved back down river towards
Lake Havasu, but there are always a few fish around. Continued on next page

Nevada Department of Wildlife 20

 Eagle Valley Reservoir

Dacey Reservoir
Dacey is the smallest of the four fishable reservoirs on Kirch begin picking up again in the fall, after the normal late
WMA and is managed to maintain a natural bass fishery summer doldrums. Aquatic vegetation can pose a problem
and waterfowl nesting area. Trout were stocked into Dacey during summer months. Fishermen can look forward to
for the first time in any number in 2004 and have been catching 8-10 inch rainbow trout with an occasional tiger
experiencing excellent growth rates with fish over 12 inches trout or largemouth bass. Anglers fishing from a boat or float
common. Angling for largemouth bass is good August tube should do well.
through September. Artificial lures, spinner baits and rubber
Echo Canyon Reservoir
worms are the most commonly used methods for bass.
Echo Canyon Reservoir is located within Echo Canyon State
Water temperatures drop below 60°F in October and the
Park, approximately 10 miles downstream from Eagle Valley
bass fishing slows. The fishing for the stocked rainbow trout,
Reservoir. The fishery is made up of rainbow trout, brown
on the other hand, picks up mid-September is good through
trout, white crappie, largemouth bass and a few bullhead
November. If and when the ice becomes thick enough to
catfish. A total of 13,000, 9-inch rainbow trout were planted
support anglers, winter trout fishing can produce fish. Trout
over this past spring and 4,000 rainbow trout are planned for
fishing should be fair this fall after water temperatures
stocking in the fall, although low water level may delay fall
decrease, with 15 inch or larger fish present.
stocking.
Haymeadow Reservoir
Nesbitt Lake
Slightly larger than Dacey; Haymeadow Reservoir is
Nesbitt Lake is located on the Key Pittman Wildlife
the fourth reservoir open to fishing on Kirch WMA. This
Management Area, one mile north of Hiko. The lake is
reservoir is managed at a full, stable level to promote the
primarily managed for waterfowl, with secondary concerns
natural bass fishery and stocked rainbow trout fishery. The
for the fishery which consists of black bullhead catfish and
best months for trout fishing are March through June and
largemouth bass. The lake also contains fathead minnows
September through October. Ice fishing in winter can also be
that serve as a prey base for the bass. Fishing is best
quite productive. Growth rates for the trout are excellent and
between February and June. Largemouth bass generally
fish up to 20 inches in length are periodically taken. Trout
range in length between 8 and 10 inches with a maximum
are captured on lures, flies and with PowerBait©. Trout
size near 13 inches. Most anglers used jigs, spinner baits,
fishing should be good and there should also be carryover of
rubber worms and top water plugs. The black bullheads
approximately 30 percent from last year. With growth rates of
range in size between 10 and 12 inches. Black bullhead
up to 1-inch a month, rainbow in the 15 to 17 inch size range
anglers use worms and some prepared catfish baits. Fishing
should be common. Average water levels should prevail.
should only be fair this year for largemouth bass, bluegill and
Eagle Valley Reservoir bullhead. Water levels are predicted to be normal. Aquatic
Constructed in a narrow canyon below several miles of weed growth increases in the summer, making shore fishing
meadow within Spring Valley State Park, Lincoln County, difficult. A boat or float tube remedies the weed problem.
Eagle Valley Reservoir has a maximum depth of 43 feet. The
Upper Pahranagat Lake
fishery is made up of rainbow, tiger trout (brown trout x brook
Upper Pahranagat Lake is located on the Pahranagat
trout hybrid) and brown trout, which are stocked annually.
National Wildlife Refuge just south of Alamo in Lincoln
Approximately 5,000 tiger trout and 32,000 rainbow trout
County. Angling opportunities will be limited in fall 2010
were stocked between March and June. In the fall, 7,000
because the reservoir was recently drained for repairs
rainbow trout are scheduled for stocking. Fishing should
to the dam and has not been re-stocked with game fish,

21 Nevada Department of Wildlife


Anglers have reported some success for bullhead catfish
using worms and catfish bait, especially fishing off the dike
between the upper lake and the north marsh. Common carp
are also easily caught from the same areas.
Streams and Small Reservoirs in Nye, Lincoln and
Esmeralda Counties
In Nye County, streams including Barley, Mosquito and
Pine creeks in Monitor Valley were stocked with catchable
rainbow trout earlier in 2010, as was Sportsman’s Park Pond
near Tonopah. Chiatovich Creek and Trail Canyon Reservoir
in Fish Lake Valley, Esmeralda County, were also stocked
multiple times this year. In Lincoln County, Beaver Dam
Wash received only very limited stocking with rainbow trout,
but the upper wash in the vicinity of Beaver Dam State Park
contains a robust population of small, wild rainbow trout. For
all of these waters, fly fishing may be productive or anglers
can try small spinners or salmon eggs. Anglers should be
aware that for all these small streams, dry conditions in
summer 2010 may result in very low stream flow in the fall,
and access may be difficult because of dense vegetation
along the banks.
Urban Fisheries
For those who prefer fishing opportunities closer to home, a
variety of urban fisheries are available in the Clark County
metro area including Sunset Park Pond, Floyd Lamb Park
at Tule Springs, Lorenzi Park Pond, Boulder City Fishing
Pond at Veterans Memorial Park in Boulder City and Hafen
Park Pond in Mesquite. All these urban ponds are stocked
monthly with channel catfish through early October, and
winter trout stocking with catchable sized rainbow trout will
commence in late November depending on the advent of
cooler water temperatures with twice-monthly releases
scheduled through March 2011. Because of pending
construction activities by the City of Las Vegas, Lorenzi Park
Pond may not be stocked with rainbow trout this winter, but
Truckee River
2010 Fall Wildlife Almanac
will remain open for fishing until construction activities start
sometime this fall or winter.
WESTERN NEVADA
Truckee River
The Truckee is the most popular fishery in northern Nevada
and continues to offer excellent opportunities for trophy
rainbow and brown trout. Population surveys last fall
indicate that trout over 14 inches are common and brown
trout up to 8 pounds are available to the astute angler. Trout
stocking in the Truckee River typically begins in February
or March and continues through the end of October. Each
year NDOW stocks the Truckee River with approximately
30,000 Lahontan cutthroat trout and 30,000 rainbow trout.
Stocked trout should provide plenty of opportunity for anglers
throughout the Reno/Sparks area during the summer and
fall. In addition to hatchery trout, the Truckee supports a
robust population of wild rainbow and brown trout that reward
anglers with a good fight and beautiful coloration.
Western Nevada Streams
Anglers looking for a quality fishing experience should not
overlook the small streams scattered in major mountain
ranges of Western Nevada. NDOW stocks a number of
these waters each year with hatchery trout. These include:
Thomas, Whites and Galena creeks near Reno, Desert
Creek southwest of Yerington and the streams in the Martin
Creek basin north of Paradise. Many of these streams
hold wild populations of trout as well. There are also many
other small streams which support wild trout throughout the
region. Fishing these small waters can be a very enjoyable
experience as the fish are eager to take a wide variety of
baits or lures. The easiest way to locate these waters is
to obtain a Western Region Fishable Waters Map at any
NDOW office.
Continued on next page

Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe
With a depth of over 1,600 feet, Lake Tahoe is more resistant
to drought than some of the shallower Nevada reservoirs.
Anglers can catch rainbow, brown and lake trout as well
as kokanee salmon. Favored angling techniques include
top-lining and deep-lining. July and August are the most
productive months, in fish per hour, although deep-liners
catch lake trout all year. NDOW stocks approximately 40,000
catchable sized rainbow trout annually, split between Cave
Rock and Sand Harbor in the spring and summer.
Lahontan Reservoir
Lahontan contains 273,000 acre-feet of water when full. As
of mid-August, the reservoir contained only 119,000 acre-
feet of water. Access for larger boats at the improved boat
ramps is available until the reservoir drops below 90,000
acre-feet. Fishing for walleye, white bass and wiper is
expected to be fair this season. At Lahontan, some of the
best fishing of the year occurs in September and early
October for anglers fishing off points. These anglers use
bait to intercept wandering schools of white bass, walleye
and wipers. Fishing can also be productive in the narrows or
at the Truckee Canal entrance near the dam. The reservoir
has produced state records wipers and there have been
many others caught over 20 lbs. Wiper fishing is best in
June and September. In recent years, many anglers have
also capitalized on large carp which are plentiful in the
reservoir. These fish fight hard and can be easy to catch
with flies or corn.
NOTE: The Nevada Division of Health is advising consumers
to refrain from eating fish caught from the Carson River in the
vicinity of Dayton downstream to, and including Lahontan
Reservoir and all waters in Lahontan Valley. Studies
performed by the State Division of Environmental Protection
and Department of Wildlife have shown that a public health
problem exists due to elevated levels of mercury in game fish
23 Nevada Department of Wildlife
and carp from these waters. Women who are pregnant
or are planning on being pregnant should be especially
careful in limiting consumption of fish.
Walker Lake
Located north of Hawthorne on Highway 95; water
levels at Walker Lake have continued to decline during
the last 10 years, consequently fishing has declined
sharply and few anglers are reporting any success.
Boat launching is also becoming very difficult, with
continual maintenance of the Nevada State Parks boat
ramp near the town of Walker Lake providing the only
safe launching conditions.
Topaz Reservoir
Located south of Gardnerville on Highway 395, Topaz
is a gem located on the Nevada-California border.
Access for larger boats is available at Douglas County
Park near the dam and Topaz Marina on the west side of
the lake. Boat anglers will do well trolling Rapalas and
flash rigs at varying depths. Shore anglers should fish
with PowerBait and worms as far out as they can cast
for the best success. Most trout are averaging 15 to 17
inches. As nighttime temperatures drop, trout fishing
should heat up at Topaz. Bass fishing is becoming more
popular and in the fall anglers can target bass in shallower
waters where they will be moving in to feed on bait fish and
crayfish. Fishing season closes on September 30 at Topaz.
East and West Walker Rivers
Winter fishing has been fair to good during low winter flows.
Afternoon fishing has been most productive when insect
activity is at its peak. On the East Walker, anglers should
be aware that the upper 2.5 miles of the river in Nevada has
been closed to public fishing. The section from the Rosaschi
Ranch down offers seven miles of catch and release water.
Beyond this stretch, fishing regulations change to general
limits and bait fishing is allowed. There are big brown trout up
to 20 inches everywhere on the East Walker down to Raccoon
Beach. As there are some private lands interspersed along
the river, anglers are advised to obey any “No Trespassing”
signs. Conditions are now good and it is best to fish prior to
spring runoff or late fall when flows subside again.
The best waters on the West Walker River are located
next to the highway in Wilson Canyon, in Hoye Canyon just
above Wellington and the Topaz canal. All of these areas are
regularly stocked by NDOW’s Mason Valley Hatchery. There
are also big brown trout in the West Walker, but in fewer
numbers. Anglers can expect most of the catch to be brown
and rainbow trout in the 10-12 inch range. Public access is
difficult between Hoye Canyon and Wilson Canyon as most
of the river is privately owned.
East Carson River - Carson City Area
East Carson River below Ruhenstroth Dam is strongly
recommended. The area holds white fish, rainbow and
brown trout in good numbers and is stocked regularly.
Anglers are reporting good trout fishing in the East Carson
above the confluence of Bryant Creek to the California state
line. Horseshoe Bend is also a good place to try fly fishing
for wild trout.
 2010 Fall Wildlife Almanac
Dufurrena Ponds well. Special regulations exist at Knott Creek Reservoir with
Fishing for largemouth bass, sunfish, yellow perch, and a limit of one trout, minimum size 18 inches and artificial
crappie should be excellent this fall. Anglers fishing the lures with single barbless hooks.
ponds during the summer months reported good fishing Chimney Reservoir
using small streamers, soft plastics, and spinners. A boat NDOW is taking advantage of low water levels at Chimney
or float tube can be very helpful to reach the deeper tule Reservoir to improve the fishery for coming years. Chimney
edges that are not accessible from shore. Areas near the is currently being drained and will be treated this fall to
dam provide the best fishing opportunities for shore anglers. remove carp from the system. Prior to treatment, game fish
Rye Patch Reservoir will be salvaged and moved to other Nevada warmwater
Rye Patch Reservoir has recovered after low water levels at fisheries. If low water conditions persist, the reservoir may
the end of 2009 and approximately 900,000 walleye fry were be drained again next fall to ensure the carp population is
planted in mid-April to provide future fishing opportunities. eliminated. Chimney will then be refilled and restocked with
Fishing throughout 2010 has been slow for most anglers warmwater fish including walleye, wiper, bass and white
with cooler than normal water temperatures. Anglers have crappie. As a result, no fishing opportunity is currently
been catching 10-12 inch wipers trolling along the steep available at Chimney Reservoir.
shorelines. Throughout 2010 anglers have been catching Urban Fisheries
fewer walleye, but most of the walleye have been in the 5-6 A variety of urban fisheries are available throughout western
pound range with main lake points offering the best walleye Nevada including Sparks Marina, Davis Creek Park, Wilson
fishing. Currently flows are very high below the dam for Common, Marilyn’s Pond, Paradise Pond, Liberty Pond in
fishing. Fallon and the Derby Canal in Fernley. Carson City will see
Blue Lakes the opening of their much anticipated new urban fishing
High water levels have made for great fishing at Blue Lakes pond in Fuji Park this October, with a Kids Fishing Day event
this year. Anglers are reported catching a variety of rainbows, scheduled for October 23. During September and October,
bowcutts, tiger trout, and brook trout. Flies, lures, and bait as soon as surface waters cool, catchable trout will be
fishing have all been productive. Early morning and evening stocked at all these waters.
offer the best fishing as trout move into the shallows. For Western Region Fall Fishing Season Closures
those willing to hike in with a float tube, fishing can remain On September 30 the fishing season closes on the following
productive all day long as you fish the deeper water. waters: Mason Valley Wildlife Management Area, Fort
Onion Valley Reservoir Churchill Cooling Ponds, Hobart Reservoir, Marlette Lake
The water level reached within five feet of spilling this year, and Topaz Lake.
which is the highest in many years. Carryover fish were On November 15 the fishing season closes on the
observed during the summer with 17-19 inch trout being following waters: Catnip Reservoir, Onion Valley Reservoir,
caught. Over 12,000 trout were planted in June, which Blue Lakes, and Knott Creek Reservoir.
provided excellent fishing throughout
the summer and these fish should
continue to grow during the fall
months. The shoreline near the camp Knott Creek
sites and near the dam has provided Reservoir
consistent fishing this season for
anglers using bait, lures, and flies.
Knott Creek Reservoir
Access into Knott Creek Reservoir is
still slow going with many exposed
boulders and ruts in the road. Water
levels remained exceptionally high
through mid-July when water releases
began for irrigation. The high water
levels and cool water temperatures
delayed the vegetation growth along
the shorelines which increased
opportunities for shore anglers. Float
tubes and small boats increase the
amount of water anglers can fish. Fly
fisherman continue to have success
with a wide variety of tactics. Anglers
using conventional gear can also do

Nevada Department of Wildlife

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