Mike Clifford

Something to keep in mind is that each individual river will likely have a different forage base. What is the predominant species (family?) of crayfish for one place is not the case in another stream- even when they are connected, for example. I sometimes venture up into the Des Plaines from the Kankakee and change tactics altogether. Same for the IL river, which is connected to both of these as well. Just a thought. I've got a library of books next to me detailing the forage bases for all of our local streams if you'd like to know the differences- just say the word. = )

That is really something. What did it fall for?

I'd just like to say that "doing the right thing" in this instance is doing the "legal" thing, as smallies must be released during the spring closed season. I'm hoping the signs in that region are what made the difference in this case. The ISA put MUCH effort and expense into them.

Indeed Marc. That one got by me in the article. It doesn't diminish all the work you do, regardless. I do know the ISA has a history of participation in this program, and hope that continues to be the case. Here ya go, gang: www.CleanWater.il.gov

This may not be smallie related, but it teaches quite few good lessons in environmental stewardship. Take a load off, slow down for 10 minutes or so and watch this through. The scenery is breathtaking, and the message a good one. #6 on this page- "Rising From the Shadows" http://www.podcast.net/show/51737 Or the direct link to the video: http://opi.mt.gov/Streamer/FWP/PodCasts/CutThroat_iPod.m4v

Wow- I close on a house Friday morning and instantly add 25 miles to my daily commute (55 miles each way to/from work soon). BUT- I'll be 5 minutes from the Kankakee River. Priorities, ya know? Actually, this is with the intention that I'll be changing careers soon and working from my home (fingers crossed).

This comes from a Bob Maciulis column in the paper:

It isn't smallmouth related, but it does serve to educate as to the importance of habitat preservation and maintaining a sustainable environment. A video presentation of Tim Gallagher very similar to the one I saw at last years Prairie Rivers dinner follows. Video footage (at 1/2 speed and 4x magnification) of an ivory-billed woodpecker taken by M. David Luneau Jr. in the Cache River National Wildlife Refuge, Arkansas, on 25 April 2004, as the bird fled from his approaching canoe. The footage: View The Tim Gallagher Presentation View Presentation There is much debate as to whether this bird was mistaken for a Pileated Woodpecker, which is very similar. Any thoughts after seeing the 2 videos?

A friend of mine goes along on the shocking boat most times for that river, and the last I heard was that the Smallie stocking project was a near total disaster. They shocked up a total of one smallmouth on a particular trip a couple years ago. I've been told that they simply aren't spawning much at all. Things may have changed in the last couple years, but it never hurts to try regardless.

That name doesn't ring a bell, but I'll definately look further. Thanks Chris.

Well, it was refreshing to see so many divergent groups able to put aside differences in philosophy and get together in one room for a common goal- making the Kankakee River more sustainable. Basically, there were tables set up with each group presenting their latest agendas with brochures, posters and photos. I talked at length with quite a few people, and look forward to working more with them. The Openlands group has an especially attractive program on one of the feeders to the Kankakee in Trim Creek. There was a nice spread of finger food as well as some hot meatballs and other stuff. Was able to talk with one gentleman that does quite a bit of streambank restoration and native plantings, and plan to look more thoroughly into the catalogue I received from him. It was neat to run into people that I had only heard about through mutual friends in conservation, so we were able to share some stories in that regard. Of course everyone that I spoke with was well aware of the ISA and what we are about, and many said they appreciate our dedication to the resource.

As I don't care to use a baitcaster unless I'm in a boat under tournament conditions (which is very rare anymore), I've adapted my pitching method to spinning gear pretty well. Rather than get too technical with it, I simply experimented with whatever felt natural. It takes a soft trigger finger, that's for sure- but it can be done. Heck, there are pros that still prefer spinning gear over casting, as surprising as it sounds- and they do quite well.

I've made it a point to attend this meeting. Any others care to help me represent the ISA's interests in this watershed?

I got 4.7 lbs. on various calculators. Sounds about right to me.

Thanks again for introducing me to Bill at the Blowout, Rich. The kit Bill gave me has some interesting creations in it, and I can say they have definately caught fish for me already.

I got it Jim. Thanks for all your hard work already!

I'll be working on the calendar within 24 hours.

We continually seek volunteers for various conservation projects and count on members like you to help meet our goals and commitments throughout the year. We achieve our goals in the most efficient manner possible by spreading the many tasks involved among a greater number of people. Please take a moment to fill out a short questionnaire on the following page: http://illinoissmallmouthalliance.com/cons...ion_signup.html The form can be accessed at any time by clicking on the "Conservation" link as well, located above the header on every page of the website. Thanks for your help.