Hi, ADN Iditarod fans, After coming close twice before, Jessie Holmes is on the cusp of his first-ever Iditarod win. The Nenana musher was the first to reach White Mountain this morning with a solid lead, a position that sets him up to be the first across the finish line in Nome. Holmes finished third in the Iditarod in both 2022 and 2024. Jessie Holmes talks with race fans in downtown Anchorage ahead of the Iditarod's ceremonial start in 2024. (Marc Lester / ADN) The race requires teams to stay in White Mountain for eight hours before setting off on the last 77-mile stretch before Nome. Holmes had a 24-mile lead on his closest competitor, Two Rivers musher Matt Hall, when he arrived at the checkpoint at 8:39 a.m. Holmes has managed to keep that lead in spite of stopping for periods of rest in the Koyuk and Elim checkpoints.... Read more →

by Dana DiFilippo, New Jersey Monitor March 3, 2025 There have been few things more reliable in Trenton in recent years than Republicans trying to loosen New Jersey’s famously tough gun restrictions — and those proposals going nowhere, year after year, in a Legislature controlled by Democrats. GOP bills now stalled in the Statehouse range from exempting veterans from gun permit application fees, codifying the right of school and college cops to carry on campus, and clarifying that BB guns are not firearms under the law. But two Republicans leaped off the party bandwagon last fall to introduce a package of bills that would establish new gun crimes and add several other new firearm restrictions. The proposals were such a detour from the GOP’s usual Second Amendment fealty that the Democrats subsequently introduced a near-identical package of bills, prompting GOP gripes earlier this month that the majority party hijacked their... Read more →

By Zachariah Hughes Published: February 27, 2025 THE ANCHORAGE DAILY NEWS The 53rd Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race kicks off this weekend, with a number of major adjustments for mushers and spectators alike. Low snow across Southcentral Alaska this winter was looming over the event for weeks, and race organizers ultimately decided to shift the race route north to Fairbanks shortly after reports emerged from snowmachiners and trail crews that a challenging stretch of the trail north of the Alaska Range was completely bare, down to the dirt and rocks. “We’ve had so much work to do to move us to Fairbanks,” Iditarod CEO Rob Urbach said Wednesday. “It was six months of work in six days.” The event has moved to Fairbanks three times in the past, in 2003, 2015 and 2017. But this year’s route is slightly different from any precedent. As the result of a loop bringing... Read more →

By Slim Randles | CNBNews Contributor They are getting ready now, wondering if the race will bring prize money, glory to their dogs, or just some quiet laughter from the other mushers. The Iditarod Trail. It has come to mean “The Trail” to dog mushers and kennel owners all over the state of Alaska and in a lot of other places. There are other long distance dogsled races now. We know that. But the Iditarod started all that “long, cold camping trip” stuff. And I was lucky to be a part of that very first Iditarod in March of 1973. Strangely enough, each musher has a list of life-saving equipment and food on that sled. Unfortunately, when they check a musher’s lungs and heart, they forget to test the brain. The race would probably be run quicker and more efficiently, but it undoubtedly wouldn’t be as much fun. In my... Read more →

By Slim Randles | CNBNews Contributor “This is ‘bout the best time of year,” said Steve, “to get out and do something fun, like go to a rodeo.” “Awful cold out there right now, Steve,” said Doc, who has more degrees than a thermometer. “I guess it’s a good thing they have all those building rodeos these days.” “Well, that would take all the sport out of it, wouldn’t it?” Steve said. “Dud, pass the sugar please.” Dud passed the sugar. “Don’t know what you mean, Steve. Why would it take all the sport out of rodeo if the folks in the stands were comfortable?” “Cold factor,” he said. “What?” Now Steve was our resident cowboy here at the Mule Barn truck stop’s philosophy counter. He still worked on ranches and lived in bunkhouses and saddled his horses one at a time, but his rodeo days were far behind him.... Read more →

William E. Cleary Sr. | CNBNews Suspect Christopher Blevins, 45, of Gloucester City Captured in Mexico GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (CNBNEWS) (January 10, 2025) – Authorities in New Jersey have charged a man from Gloucester City in connection with a tragic and disturbing case involving the discovery of a woman's body. The remains were found on December 22, 2024, in the secluded Belleplain State Forest, located near Dennis Township in Cape May County. Multiple sources have identified the accused as Christopher Blevins, 45, a resident of Gloucester City, who now faces serious charges, including the desecration of human remains and hindering law enforcement. The victim, Laura Hughes, was reportedly in a relationship with Blevins. The investigation into her death has revealed unsettling details. Law enforcement utilized two distinct tattoos on Hughes, alongside a coin and a yoga mat located near the scene where her body was found inside a refrigerator, to... Read more →

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Fish & Wildlife will lead a multi-state partnership to help restore Eastern brook trout to waterways in parts of New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, by administering a $3.5 million National Fish and Wildlife Foundation America the Beautiful Challenge grant. The grant is designed to enhance forested waterway habitats that support this hallmark fish species and others that depend on clear and cold streams and lakes. Prized by anglers and New Jersey’s only native trout species, the Eastern brook trout, also known as brookies, is the official state fish species for all three states and is considered an indicator of good water quality. It was named the official state fish of New Jersey in 1992. Eastern brook trout, however, along with other fish species in these areas, are experiencing population declines due to degradation from habitat fragmentation, warming water temperatures, sedimentation and other threats.... Read more →

William E. Cleary Sr. | CNBNews GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (December 27, 2024)(CNBNews)--Most people like birds; they are pretty to look at. Plus, listening to a bird sing is soothing and relaxing. However, the majority of people never give any thought to how harmful bird droppings are to a person's health. So harmful in some cases a person could die by inhaling the air where the dung is located. The source for this article, MedicalNews Today, issued a warning to people about those large green goose droppings that you find at many parks; in particular, they warned dog owners to keep their pet away from it and don't allow them to eat it. Listed below are examples of transmissible bird diseases associated with pigeons, geese, starlings and house sparrows: Just one of the flocks of geese that inhabit the Johnson Blvd jogging track in Gloucester City. (CNBNews photo) RELATED: CNBNews Oct.... Read more →

By Slim Randles “When you been maturinatin’ ‘long as I have, they’s a few ultimatum facts about life that jest can’t be ignored,” With that, our favorite old-time camp cook, mule packer and occasional predictor of things that haven’t happened yet, Windy Wilson, stirred the sugar in his coffee and looked at the rest of us. Wisely. Well, as wisely as old Windy ever gets. We knew we were in for another dose of campfire education, even if it’s totally wrong. We smiled. Some people need cable TV to find this kind of fun. “Like them measurementals we use when we’re cookin’, he said. “If you look in them recipe books, they slam a buncha measurementals on ya that you never heard of and no one to convert them into plain American, like we speak here.” “You jest take in there them bakin’ recipes,” he said. “Cups a this, then... Read more →

photo courtesy of Brandon Sheets PICKWICK COUNTY, OHIO (December 16, 2024)(CNBNews)--The top spot for big deer this hunting season is the state of Ohio, according to Field and Stream. Brandon Sheets, above, can attest to that statement as he shot the majestic 20-point buck with his bow on November 9 while hunting on private property in Pickwick County, Ohio. Sheets told Field and Stream that his first in-person encounter with the buck occurred in 2022. "I was sitting in a blind toward the end of bow season watching a couple of bucks spar in a field when he came in from some tall grass and scared them away,” he recalls. “He was probably a 150-class deer that year." "I didn't see him again until the 2023 season when I had him and another nice buck squaring off next to my mock scrape about 70 yards away," says Sweets. "Just as... Read more →

By Lauren Jessop | The Center Square contributor Dec 6, 2024 source Gary Devine Lifting Sunday hunting ban still in sight Dec 6, 2024 (The Center Square) – Pennsylvania sits on a short list of states that still have “blue laws” banning Sunday hunting. But growing momentum to lift those restrictions gives advocates reason for optimism. Sen. Dan Laughlin, R-Erie has announced plans to reintroduce a proposal after Senate Bill 67 nearly made it over the finish line this legislative session. “Since 2018, I sponsored legislation to repeal this prohibition,” said Laughlin in a press release. “Through numerous meetings and compromise, the addition of three Sundays was achieved in Senate Bill 147, now Act 107 of 2019,” continued Laughlin. “Although hunters have the opportunity to hunt on three Sundays, I continue to advocate to end the Sunday hunting prohibition.” The Pennsylvania Game Commission currently permits hunting on three designated Sundays... Read more →

MARYLAND FISHING REPORT; November 27, 2024 Chesapeake Channa, photo by Vincent Volinski. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources wishes everyone peace and renewed family bonds this holiday, as we reflect on all the things we are grateful for and hopefully enjoy a long weekend. Despite the weather getting a little chilly out there, once the sun shines there is a wonderful array of fishing to be had this week. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s (ASFMC) Striped Bass Management Board will meet in-person and via webinar on Monday, December 16 to consider changing 2025 management measures to increase the probability of rebuilding the stock by the 2029 deadline. The draft agenda, webinar information, and the Technical Committee Report with management options for consideration will be posted on the ASFMC website by December 3. The Commission will host an Informational Webinar on Thursday, December 5 at 6 p.m. to review the... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – November 20 November 20, 2024 Luca Tucciarella will certainly have fond memories of the day he caught this large northern pike at Loch Raven Reservoir. Photo by Vincent Tucciarella There are plenty of good fishing opportunities this week across Maryland and our offshore waters. Anglers are urged to get out and enjoy the action, which may provide wonderful memories to reflect on this winter. Nick Perez of Perryville recently earned a Master Angler Milestone Award under the Department’s FishMaryland program. He is the 15th Master Angler and his daughter Lucy Moore was the 10th Master Angler and the first youth and female angler to reach that milestone. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s (ASFMC) Striped Bass Management Board will meet in-person and via webinar on Monday, December 16 to consider changing 2025 management measures to increase the probability of rebuilding the stock by the 2029 deadline.... Read more →

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Atlantic Striped Bass Management Board will meet in-person and via webinar on Monday, December 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to consider changing 2025 management measures to increase the probability of rebuilding the stock by the 2029 deadline. The meeting will be held at the Westin Crystal City, 1800 Richmond Highway, Arlington, Va. The draft agenda, webinar information, and the Technical Committee Report with management options for consideration will be posted by December 3. The Advisory Panel Report and all written comments received by December 10 will be posted no later than December 13. The meeting responds to the results of the 2024 Stock Assessment Update, which indicates the resource remains overfished but is not experiencing overfishing. Short-term projections estimate an increase in fishing mortality in 2025 due to the above average 2018 year-class entering the current recreational ocean slot limit combined with... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – November 6 November 6, 2024 Frankie Goff hoists up this large blue catfish she caught at the Conowingo Dam pool. Photo by Don Goff Maryland anglers will be dressing a little warmer this month, but the fishing action is still hot for a variety of species. Forecast Summary: November 6 – November 12: Expect more moderate, breezy weather to highlight our fishing conditions this week. Salinity in Maryland’s part of the Bay above Cove Point is running slightly saltier than average. In addition, there is adequate oxygen from surface to the bottom throughout Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay. Main Bay surface water temperatures and the well mixed water column are in the low 60s with the rivers running slightly cooler. In comparison to historical Bay conditions, the main Bay water temperatures are average but all tributaries running into Maryland’s portion of the Bay are either... Read more →

By Slim Randles | CNBNews Contributor Graphic provided Ah … politics! If you’re a responsible American, as I often pretend to be, you’ll have watched and read and listened to as much hogwash on every side of every question ad nauseum, and we’ll all troop to the polls, read the names and say “Is this the best you guys can do for candidates?” And then we’ll vote, anyway. And that’s why I’d like to suggest March 4 as a new national holiday, it being the entire term of the only non-toxic President of the United States. His name was David Rice Atchison, who later on had Atchison, Kansas named for him, along with one third of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad. Never heard of him? Well, he was a pro-slavery Democrat who never met a bottle of booze he didn’t like. But back in 1849, when Atchison became... Read more →

WHAT THIS NOTICE DOES The Secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces modifications to the commercial striped bass common pool hook and line fishery. Effective 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, November 5, 2024: ● The season is open November 5, 2024, through November 6, 2024. ● The catch limit is 200 pounds/permittee/week and 400 pounds/vessel/day. ● The catch times remain one hour before sunrise through one hour before sunset. WHY THIS IS NECESSARY This action is necessary to implement the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Striped Bass. WHO THIS NOTICE AFFECTS This applies to all individuals who are permitted to participate in the commercial striped bass common pool hook and line fishery in the Chesapeake Bay. AUTHORITY Code of Maryland Regulations 08.02.15.12 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Fishing and Boating Services at 410-260-8293 Josh Kurtz Secretary, Maryland Department of Natural Resources Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – October 30 October 30, 2024 Herb Floyd enjoyed some light tackle fishing in the Chesapeake Bay recently, catching this red drum. Photo by Rhonda Floyd A change of seasons is all around us this week, vibrant colors abound, the mornings have a little more chill in them, and anglers are enjoying fishing across Maryland. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced results of this year’s juvenile striped bass survey, which tracks the reproductive success of Maryland’s state fish in the Chesapeake Bay. The 2024 young-of-year index is 2.0, well below the long-term average of 11.0, and marks the sixth consecutive year of poor reproduction. Efforts to rebuild the Atlantic Coast population of striped bass have been ongoing for several years. Although recent population estimates indicate improvement, low levels of reproduction will influence future conservation measures under consideration by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. Forecast Summary:... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – October 23 October 23, 2024 Angler Manny Gomez caught a 27.1-inch spotted seatrout, also called a speckled trout, in the Chesapeake Bay. Photo courtesy of Manny Gomez Mild weather conditions and a full spectrum of fall fishing opportunities await anglers this week from the mountains of Western Maryland to the Atlantic. With the fall fishing season well underway, anglers are encouraged to participate in the Department of Natural Resources’ volunteer angler surveys. This is a chance for anglers to directly help with fisheries management. The information you provide assists the Department’s fisheries biologists with collection of important data, including species caught, harvest (fish kept), total catches, and fish released. Forecast Summary: October 23 – October 29: For more detailed and up-to-date fishing conditions in your area, be sure to check out Eyes on the Bay’s Click Before You Cast. Upper Chesapeake Bay Don Goff holds up... Read more →

So far 392 bears have been killed in the first round of New Jersey’s bear hunt. Governor Murphy reinstated the bear hunt two years ago after stating that, “We cannot rely on nonlethal methods alone to protect New Jersey residents from a growing black bear population.” Unfortunately New Jersey has yet to follow through on effective non lethal management strategies, such as mandating bear proof garbage containers in counties with high populations of bears. “Hunting may be necessary at times to balance the ecosystem, however, without an actual bear management plan that deals with protection of habitats, garbage, and educating people in bear country, the NJ hunt is meaningless. The Murphy Administration needs to focus on the trash part of the bear problem and adequately fund bear-resistant trash containers in counties where there is a high population of bears,” said Taylor McFarland, Conservation Program Manager of the Sierra Club, NJ... Read more →

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is scoping possible regulatory changes on the following topics: BLUE CRABS - Crab Pot Lines Housekeeping HORSESHOE CRABS - Harvest on Sundays MONETARY VALUES OF FISH - Updates OYSTERS AND CLAMS - Declaration Requirement for Seafood Dealers PENALTIES - Updates to Penalty Schedules SHARKS - Shortfin Mako Creel Limit SHELLFISH AQUACULTURE - Harvest Hours STRIPED BASS - Atlantic Gill Netting During the scoping process, the department gathers suggestions and ideas from stakeholders and others about how to solve a fishery problem or address a need. The goal of scoping is to identify issues, potential impacts, and reasonable alternatives associated with the issues so that management actions can be developed. Please visit our Changes to Fishing Regulations page for more information about what the department is considering and how to submit comments. All comments must be received by 11:59 p.m. on November 5, 2024. These... Read more →

(Emmaus, Pa., October 15, 2024) - Wildlands Conservancy, the premier nonprofit land trust of the Lehigh Valley and Lehigh River watershed, together with project partners, funders, and community volunteers, celebrated the yearslong stream restoration of the Bushkill Creek and its success to date. The celebration took place at the Lafayette College dam removal site along the Karl Stirner Arts Trail in Easton. The event included a volunteer wildflower planting to complete restoration at this project site. “This yearslong effort is a win for clean water for all the communities living in connection with the Bushkill Creek,” says Christopher Kocher, president of Wildlands Conservancy. “It’s a wonderful example of the power of partnerships, and what community can do for community when nonprofits, local government, and state and federal agencies pool ideas resources to invest our treasured, natural areas.” The Bushkill Creek begins at the foot of Blue Mountain in Bushkill Township... Read more →

UPDATED WITH NEW PHOTOS/Oct. 19, 2024/7 PM William E. Cleary Sr. | CNBNews Bull Elk, October 2, 2024 (CNBNews photo, camera Apple Pro Max 15) SEE VIDEO BELOW GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (October 18, 2024)(CNBNews)--In the warm month of July, the anticipation for my upcoming 80th birthday in October began to build. Picturing myself trying to blow out 80 candles on the top of the cake didn't excite me. It had to be something different from how I celebrated my birth in the past. Reflecting on previous years, I reminisced about the exciting experiences I had undertaken to celebrate those occasions. Some I remember include sitting in the press box watching the Phillies win the 1980 World Series, soaring through the skies in a blimp with my wife, and gazing down upon the Philadelphia City Hall and the iconic statue of Billy Penn, embarking on a breathtaking flight in a floatplane... Read more →

October 16, 2024 Theodore Post has his hands full holding this large sheepshead he caught at the Ocean City Inlet. Photo by Courtney Hevner The mornings show signs of the approaching colder weather, but the daytime air temperatures and sunny weather are delightful. Trout anglers are enjoying the fall stocking of trout, while Chesapeake Bay and coastal anglers are focusing on a variety of fish. With the fall fishing season well underway, anglers are encouraged to participate in the Department of Natural Resources’ volunteer angler surveys. This is a chance for anglers to directly help with fisheries management. The information you provide assists the Department’s fisheries biologists with collection of important data, including species caught, harvest (fish kept), total catches, and fish released. Forecast Summary: October 16 – October 22: Expect moderate, sunny weather to highlight our fishing conditions this week in Maryland’s waters. Expect breezy conditions through Friday –... Read more →

Beginning October 15, obtaining a NJ Saltwater Registration requires the completion of a Child Support Certification Form. This is a legislative requirement. Completing the Child Support Certification is required when purchasing a hunting or fishing license, related permit or registration. Hunters and freshwater anglers have been complying with this requirement for years. The certification must be completed annually and covers all NJFW licenses, permits and/or registrations obtained for the respective calendar year. For those individuals who have already registered this year, you will be prompted to complete the Child Support Certification Form the next time you log into the system. CHILD SUPPORT CERTIFICATION INFORMATION For questions pertaining to the NJ Saltwater Recreational Registry Program, please contact Marine Fisheries staff at [email protected]. Read more →

written and compiled by Keith Lockwood October 9, 2024 Steve Evans caught this large flathead recently just below the Conowingo Dam pool on the lower Susquehanna River. Photo courtesy of Steven Evans Marylanders continue to see temperatures dip as we move our way through October. Fishing could hardly be better for a wide variety of freshwater and saltwater fish. To the delight of trout anglers, the fall trout stocking program has begun. Other anglers set their sights on fish like the invasive flathead catfish. With the fall fishing season well underway, anglers are encouraged to participate in the Department of Natural Resources’ volunteer angler surveys. This is a chance for anglers to directly help in fisheries management. The information you provide assists the Department’s fisheries biologists with collection of important data, including species caught, harvest (fish kept), total catches, and fish released. Forecast Summary: October 9 – October 15: Expect... Read more →

Studies indicate that firearms are used more than 2 million times a year for personal protection and that the presence of a firearm, without a shot being fired, prevents crime in many instances. (source NRA) Armed Citizen® Archives https://judge.me/ A Grayson County, Va., man is dead after allegedly breaking into a house and attacking an armed homeowner early in the morning on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022. According to police, the 41-year-old alleged intruder broke a bedroom window and entered the house while the homeowner was asleep. The resident quickly grabbed for a handgun that was in the room, when the burglar grabbed the man from behind. A struggle ensued, with both men falling to the floor. The homeowner retained control of his handgun and fired twice, striking the invader and killing him. Police say that early investigations indicate the homeowner acted within the law. (WDBJ7 News, Roanoke, Va., 12/6/22) From... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – October 2 The Casanova family enjoyed a wonderful fishing trip together for bluefish in the lower bay recently that will cement long lasting family memories. Photo by Travis Long October temperatures and hungry fish are setting the stage for fun fishing adventures. Families and friends are taking advantage of setting out to enjoy the outdoors from western Maryland to our coastal waters. Don’t miss this extraordinary time to enjoy fishing together. Forecast Summary: October 2 – October 8: As we roll into the first full week of “Rocktober,” expect moderate, sunny, calm weather to highlight our fishing conditions this week in Maryland’s waters. As reported from the NOAA buoys, shorter daylight periods and cooler day-time air temperatures have cooled main Bay surface water temperatures to the lower 70s, with rivers running slightly cooler. Maryland’s part of the Bay continues to run fresher than average. In most... Read more →

by Andrew Burnett Senior Wildlife Biologist To the deer hunter, the arrival of autumn means hunting season has arrived. (In fact, in some zones the bow season actually opens before the autumnal equinox!) New Jersey’s largest game species with an open season is the white-tailed deer, and it is targeted by more hunters than any other species. Knowing the deer’s natural ways can increase the enjoyment of the sport and the chances of success. During the anterless permit seasons hunters may harvest fawns as well as mature bucks and does. (See the Hunting & Trapping Digest for specific regulations on each season and zone.) Fawns weigh approximately 7½ pounds at birth while adults average 100 pounds (females) to 150 pounds (males). Actual weights vary depending on habitat-type and quality, age of the animal and season of the year. The maximum life expectancy of a deer could exceed twenty years. (A... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – September 25 September 25, 2024 Bluefish, photo by Travis Long Little by little, summer is losing its grip on the Maryland landscape, with cooler nights and milder daytime temperatures. Fish feel it too, and they are feeding aggressively and putting on body stores for what lies ahead. A perfect example are the bluefish in the Chesapeake Bay that are large and fat. Forecast Summary: September 25 – October 1: As we roll into “Rocktober,” expect cool, wet, breezy weather to highlight our fishing conditions this week in Maryland’s waters. Shorter daylight periods and cooler day-time air temperatures have cooled main Bay surface water temperatures to the lower 70s, with rivers running slightly cooler. Maryland’s part of the Bay continues to run fresher than average. In most places, expect areas with suitable amounts of oxygen – greater than 3 mg/liter – to extend down to at least... Read more →

Please Do Not Feed the Bears! Residents are asked to be alert and watch for black bears as the bears forage for food ahead of their winter den season. Though most of New Jersey's black bears live in the northwest portion of the State, black bears have been sighted in all 21 counties. Please take steps to secure trash cans and other potential sources of food. Bears that find food in residential neighborhoods may learn to associate people with food. These bears may then become nuisances that cause property damage, seek handouts from people, or become dangerous. Intentionally feeding bears is illegal in New Jersey and carries a fine of up to $1,000. Report black bear damage or aggressive bears to your local police department or to Fish & Wildlife by calling 1-877-927-6337. Find more safety tips and information at NJDEP Fish & Wildlife. Read more →

On Saturday, the Board of Commissioners in partnership with the Camden County Certified Gardeners and Woodford Cedar Wildlife Refuge will host Wildlife Adventures for Young Minds, an educational adventure exploring the world of animals. The day’s activities include lessons about New Jersey’s diverse wildlife, gardening activities and an interactive bee demonstration. “Promoting sustainability is a priority for the county and the best way to do that is to get our youngest residents interested,” said Commissioner Jonathan Young, liaison to the Camden County Office of Sustainability. “It is going to be a wonderful day where kids and families can learn about the beautiful animals that call New Jersey home and how to protect them.” To register for the event, click here. Read more →

Last updated at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 19 WASHINGTON STATE (September 19, 2024)--On Thursday, Sept. 12 at approximately 9:30 a.m., Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Officers received a report of a human-river otter incident that occurred at the Bremerton Marina in Kitsap County. The victim’s mother reported that a river otter pulled her young child into the water as they were walking down the dock. The child was dragged underwater, and after a few moments, resurfaced. The child’s mother was able to lift the child out of the water while the otter continued to attack and was subsequently bit in the arm. The river otter continued to pursue the family as they left the dock. The child sustained scratches and bites to the top of the head, face and legs. The child was treated for their injuries at a Silverdale hospital. “We are grateful the victim only sustained... Read more →

September 18, 2024 Angler Timothy Smith Sr. caught this 30-inch Chesapeake Channa (aka northern snakehead) in Loch Raven Reservoir. Photo courtesy of Timothy Smith Sr. September is a very special month in Maryland for anglers; the weather is pleasant, and water temperatures are slowly cooling. Fish everywhere – in the freshwater areas, the Chesapeake Bay, and the ocean waters – are becoming more active. Forecast Summary: September 18 – September 24 Moderate weather with limited rain predicted will make for comfortable fishing conditions this week in Maryland’s waters. Shorter daylight periods and cooler daytime air temperatures have cooled main Chesapeake Bay surface water temperatures to the lower 70s. Maryland’s part of the Bay continues to run fresher than average. Areas with suitable amounts of oxygen (>3mg/l) increased this week. So to find the best combination of well oxygenated, cooler water preferred by many Bay gamefish, continue to focus on fishing... Read more →

Specific Zones Open Saturday, Sept. 14 All Zones Open Sept. 28 The Fall Bow Deer Season opens this Saturday in certain Deer Management Zones. The first deer must be antlerless (except for youth hunters) through September 27. The season then opens statewide on Saturday, September 28. Refer to the Archery Deer Hunting by Season and Zones for specific bag limits and other information. Permits for all deer permit seasons, as well as Fall Turkey season go on sale September 9, 2024. Archery Deer Hunting by Season and Zones 2024-2025 Hunting & Trapping Digest Hunting & Trapping Explorer - Deer Management Zones & Units Deer Seasons & Regulations Automated Harvest Report System (AHRS) Information Report Your Harvest What Do I Need to Hunt Deer in New Jersey? Public Deer Hunting Land in New Jersey Lands Open or Closed to Sunday Bow Hunting White-tailed Deer in NJ Hunters Helping the Hungry Keep... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – September 11 Young Nathan Moyer recently got to fish the Conowingo Dam pool for the first time and caught his largest fish to date, a striped bass, all possible thanks to a dad who took him. Photo by Chris Moyer Fishing is often about the adventure of exploring a new place to fish, or the challenge of fishing for a new species, and it always helps when you have the company of family or friends. Landon Derbyshire of Eden, Maryland recently became became the 13th FishMaryland Master Angler and only the second youth angler to reach that milestone. He caught all the qualifying species of trophy fish before his sixteenth birthday. Congratulations to Landon! Forecast Summary: September 11 – September 17 Moderate weather with limited rain predicted will make for comfortable fishing conditions this week in Maryland’s waters. Shorter daylight periods and cooler daytime air temperatures... Read more →

BY Slim Randles “Mavis, dear, is that coffee HOT this morning?” “Sure is, Windy.” “Well then, slaver a bunch of it in a cup and flop it down here in front of a freezin’ guy, would you? Thanks, Hon.” “Freezing, Windy?” “Ain’t the first time, Doc, but they never seem any easier as I get older.” “You want to come in for a checkup later?” “Naw, just need to get warm, you know. Used to it at my age.” Steve set his cup down and looked at his old pard, Windy Wilson, camp cook and mule packer extraordinaire. “Don’t know how you can get cold on a summer morning like this.” “It’s the air tempa-choor, Steve. You recomlect that time you ‘n me was up in the high country and got caught in a snowstorm …” “And our slickers and jackets were back in camp? Sure I remember that. I... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – September 4 Jeremy Clark holds up a beautiful northern pike he caught in Deep Creek Lake. Photo by James Clark Glorious September is here, and although summer will sweep her hand across Maryland a few times before it is all over, we can all look forward to more comfortable weather. Water temperatures will begin to cool also and fishing in general will shift into high gear. Forecast Summary: September 4 – September 10 Cooling weather with limited rain predicted will make for comfortable fishing conditions this week in Maryland’s waters. Shorter daylight periods and cooler daytime air temperatures have cooled main Chesapeake Bay surface water temperatures to the upper 70s. Maryland’s part of the Bay continues to run fresher than average. Larger areas with suitable amounts of oxygen – greater than 3mg/l – have continued to increase again this week. However, for finding the best combination... Read more →

Everyone has his own favorite spot on Lewis Creek, I guess. Some of us favor the swimming hole below Miller’s old place, with its rope swing and the kids who frolic there on hot summer days. For Doc and Dud, it’s the big race below the rocks where the huge lunker trout lives. All our efforts to catch him have so far gone unrewarded, and he keeps getting bigger each year. But for me, there’s a little cove downstream from there, shaded by huge cottonwoods and flanked in by car-sized rocks the color of wet cement. I found it sometime during a previous lifetime, I imagine. At least I can’t remember the first time I discovered this place. It is walled off from the world by the rocks, protected from the sun by the cottonwoods. There is a blackened part of one overhanging rock where I’ve built a good many... Read more →

* These helpful bivalves clean the river and assist in a thriving riverside ecosystem * Philadelphia, PA – There’s been an exciting development for the Delaware River in Philadelphia – freshwater mussels have been found! In a survey recently conducted by the Discovery Center, Aquatic Research and Restoration Center (ARRC), Audubon Mid-Atlantic, Pennypack Environmental Center, and Riverfront North Partnership (RNP) there is confirmation that these helpful bivalves have been found near Pennypack Creek. Freshwater mussels have been scarce along the Delaware River due to multiple stressors. With the help of the 1972 Clean Water Act, community science, and multiple local science organizations, this marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to restore the Delaware River Watershed. “I’ve worked with freshwater mussels for the past six years and there’s always new things to learn and discover,” says Bria Wimberly, Senior Coordinator of Public Programs at the Discovery Center. “These filter... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report – August 28 Hopefully, all our crabbers are as lucky as John Turrall and catch a mess of jumbo hard crabs that are large and full of meat. Labor Day is upon us, and September is on the horizon, with promising cooler weather and excellent fishing and crabbing. There will be many crab feasts scheduled for families and friends across Maryland this weekend and recreational crabbers will go out on the water to provide the crabs. Photo by Rich Watts (caption by Maryland Fishing News Editor) Forecast Summary: August 28 – September 3 Cooling weather with limited rain predicted will make for comfortable fishing conditions this week in Maryland’s waters. As a result of the recent warm spell, main Bay surface water temperatures have warmed to the low 80s. Maryland’s part of the Bay continues to run fresher than average. Larger areas with suitable amounts of oxygen... Read more →

Maryland Fishing Report August 21, 2024 James Crosby got a little help from his friends during his battle with this huge bigeye tuna. Photo courtesy of James Crosby. Fishing is always better in the company of family or friends, and when an angler is successful and has their friends to cheer them on and offer encouragement it makes all the difference when battling a fish of mammoth proportions. As a reminder to all Maryland anglers, please participate in the Department of Natural Resources’ Volunteer Angler Surveys by reporting your catch of any number of species. This allows citizen scientists to contribute valuable data to the monitoring and management of several important fish species. Forecast Summary: August 21 – August 27 Moderate weather with no rain predicted will make for comfortable fishing conditions this week in Maryland’s waters. As a result of the recent rains, main Bay surface water temperatures have... Read more →

Haddon Township, NJ (August 19, 2024) — Haddon Township, one of the most dog-friendly towns in New Jersey, is celebrating National Dog Day with a photo contest to win a $100 gift certificate. Today through National Dog Day on August 26, pup parents can bring their furry friends to Goodbeet, located at 29 Haddon Avenue in Haddon Township. To enter the contest, participants will buy a delicious treat, snap a photo of their dog, and post it to their Instagram grid and tag @shophaddon and @eatgoodbeet. Each photo entry will be entered to win a $100.00 goodbeet gift certificate. The winning dog’s photo will be shared on Monday, August 26. Goodbeet is a vegan, gluten free fast casual restaurant that’s been serving the Haddon Township community since 2015. Owner Ashley Coyne, being a dog lover herself, always encourages customers to bring their own dogs into the shop. “We love our... Read more →

A popular TV host recently shared pictures of his recovery from an accident. He collided with a truck while riding his bike to pick up his toddler from school. The impact of the crash left him with a broken neck. ++++++ Nev was admitted to the intensive care unit, where he battled with nerve injuries. However, he shared videos and pictures from his hospital bed, assuring his fans that he was recovering fast and not paralyzed, as some feared. In a short video he shared, some medical staff helped him walk around just a few days after surgery. So, he seems to be doing just fine. Possible remedies for his injuries It isn’t clear what happened during his accident, but if he was indeed hit by a truck, he can sue and get compensated for his injuries. A Chicago truck accident attorney often handles such cases. But what does it... Read more →

by Slim Randles “Waal,” said Windy, stirring his coffee. “I hate to do this here, but I’m afeerd a whole bunch of it’s Doc’s fault.” This announcement coincided with Doc coming to join us at the counter here at the Mule Barn Coffee Shop and Desperate Dilemma Depository. Yeah, it’s kinda like that. “So Windy,” Doc asked, flipping his coffee mug to the upright and fillable position, “what have I done now?” “Oh, Doc,” Windy said, “ain’t so much you as it is doctorin’ in the general, you know. You guys go to school until you’re 72 and have to stick us with words we don’t know, can’t say, and don’t need.” Doc waited and looked at his old friend before adding sugar. “Ya see, Doc,” said Windy, “ever since I found my ownself approachin’ middle age …” “Yeah, Windy, but from which end?” The laughter eventually subsided a little.... Read more →

Angler Jerome Ries caught and released this 45.5″ Red Drum in the Chesapeake Bay. Opportunity is often described as a favorable or promising combination of circumstances. This certainly describes what is available for anglers in Maryland this time of the year. Hot days and the cooling effects of water with the bonus of catching fish, it’s hard to get better than that. Forecast Summary: August 7-August 13 Cooler weather with substantial rains through Friday will make for uncomfortable fishing conditions for the early part of this week in Maryland’s waters. As reported from the NOAA buoys, main Bay surface water temperatures are very warm at 87⁰F at Annapolis and near 85⁰F for the Patapsco and Goose’s areas. Potomac and Susquehanna River temperatures are holding in the upper 80’s but will likely cool in the next few days with the heavy rains. Maryland’s part of the Bay continues to run fresher... Read more →

BY Slim Randles When the world is hot and my skin is fried, scratching from the constant dry, let the clouds boil up – boil up high. And then shade the earth with the darkening sky and bring the secrets and the smell of rain. The heat and the blessed rain, again. Our land is brown but blessed, stressed in the heat, the shiny heat of day. The slender green of desert rivers slides along, striving to continue, to feed its own along the banks – the banks where the dust rises. Rises, powdery clomp by clomp as we walk – walk the shady way. Ours is the blessing of challenge, to live, to thrive in the heat. But bring us the clouds, the black bellied clouds, the clouds that softly hold the heads of gods in their moistening grasp. Let them come, with their silver tops and their bellies... Read more →

Photo: "Sunrise on the Bay" by S.C. Bridgman, submitted to Maryland DNR Photo Contest Secretary’s Message: We’re Making Progress on New Chesapeake Bay Restoration Strategy It has been one year since Gov. Wes Moore announced that Maryland was shifting its Chesapeake Bay cleanup strategy to align with the latest science that recommends focusing water quality efforts on improving shallow water habitat and increasing living resources, such as populations of fish and crabs. At DNR, we’ve made significant strides during the past 12 months to shift from a previous strategy that I’ve often referred to as “restoration by opportunity” to a more directed approach that also prioritizes co-benefits of improving water quality such as habitat creation, shoreline resilience, and climate change mitigation. Read more. Underwater Grasses Are Key to Chesapeake Bay Health Across the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, below the water’s surface, ribbons of green sway in the current. They... Read more →

July 31, 2024 Claire Toth is all smiles with her first catch of white perch. Photo by Kevin Toth The excitement of seeing a young angler catch their first fish is enough to warm the heart of anyone, much less a veteran angler. Bluegill sunfish and white perch often fit the bill for this first fishing adventure. The Chesapeake Bay striped bass season reopens August 1, and although it is legal to fish for striped bass, anglers are urged to practice the most careful catch-and-release practices possible. Water temperatures are in the low 80s this week and low dissolved oxygen levels tend to be at cooler depths, making it difficult for fish to recover effectively. The Department of Natural Resources website provides a good overview of catch-and-release practices. The Potomac River striped bass fishery (managed by the Potomac River Fisheries Commission) remains closed to recreational fishing through Aug. 20. Virginia... Read more →

By ... Slim Randles The evening was one of those that come back to you time after time, year after long year. It comes back and whispers of how good life can be when you’re well fed, enjoying life, and a good friend shares the front porch with you on a summer’s evening. It was that way with Doc and Steve the other night. Doc thought he might have to do a scientific paper on the soporific effects of ice tea, fried chicken, and corn on the cob. As long as it didn’t take any effort. So when this huge meal had been bull-snaked down, the two grinning friends came out to the porch to watch the sun go down behind the trees along Lewis Creek. The air had that orange and russet glow, and the breeze, that little one that caresses the neck, came slowly down from the hills... Read more →