Outdoor Briefs

LEND A HAND

NDOW seeking volunteer instructors for hunting, fishing

Do you enjoy fishing, hunting or both? Do you like to share those interests with others?

If so, then the Nevada Department of Wildlife is looking for you.

The agency wants to bolster its cadre of educational volunteers. Needed are volunteers with an interest in teaching others about the basics of fishing and the principles of safe and responsible hunting.

"Some people might think they have to be an expert to teach these subjects, but that's just not the case. Knowledge and experience is a good thing, but the most important qualification we are looking for is a willingness to teach, to share knowledge with that next generation of anglers or hunters," said Martin Olson, hunter education coordinator for NDOW in the Southern Region.

Those who are interested in becoming a volunteer angler or hunter education instructor can obtain more information by calling NDOW at 702-486-5127.

Dial ext. 3503 for more information on angler education and ext. 3501 for hunter education.

THE TIME IS NEAR

Fall provides opportunities for great fishing at area lakes

Fall is arriving and that means the days will grow shorter and cooler. At Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, fall can be the most productive season for striped, smallmouth and largemouth bass.

"Because they are so large, Lakes Mead and Mohave cool down at a much slower rate than the smaller ponds around town. Fish such as the striped bass actually prefer water in the mid-60s to 70s," said Ivy Santee, aquatic education coordinator for the Nevada Department of Wildlife.

Various methods can be productive during this time of year, from bait fishing with anchovies, squid and shrimp to tossing lures, such as sassy shads, top-water poppers and rattle traps.

"Don't be afraid to try many types of lures, like my friend who caught one of the biggest fish of his life while playing with a lure that was given to him," Santee said. "If you really want to increase your chances of catching whoppers, the real success stories come from the anglers who persevere and don't give up on these great waters just because they had a slow fishing day."

The best times to hit the water are early in the morning, late in the evening and after dark.