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Not Duck Hunting

2011-11-19T07:47:00.001-06:00

Not duck hunting due to low water levels in our area. But still able to observe a few deer.

Lake Lavon Hunting Permits Available

2011-09-14T09:56:00.000-05:00

Not sure how the upcoming Season is going to pan out. Low water levels and limited access to are favored hunting areas has us waiting for (hopefully) more rain and boat ramps reopening. Just in case, decided to renew our Hunting Permits.

For those who were issued Permits in the past, easy to update it on line. For new Hunters, you will need to check with the Area Office. See Link for more info

Till then, we are holding off on Duck Hunting but keeping a close watch on the weather!

Lake Lavon Hunting Permits Available

Season's Over But Still Nice To Observe...

2011-04-19T17:58:00.000-05:00

Was out this afternoon and noticed a couple of Ducks hanging out at a community lake! Look like Gadwall,... maybe they will hang around till the Season starts up again!

Processed and In The Freezer

2010-12-11T20:18:00.000-06:00

Been on the road this past week. Was not able to make the Season Split Opener....! Did get a call from the Butcher. Deer taken last week has been processed. Put a big dent in the freezer. Ready to enjoy some great tasting meals.

Processed and In The Freezer

Bagged a Doe for the Freezer, Next Step - Ducks!!!

2010-12-05T01:34:00.001-06:00

Been a tough season so far. Saw many undersized bucks but no shooters showed during legal shooting time. Decided to take a Doe for the freezer. Now we can get back to Duck Hunting.... at least when the Season Split ends.

Easy 50 yard shot... Used the Mossberg 100 ATR made in Eagle Pass, Texas. No issues with the rifle. Shot like it was sighted in; hold dead on at 50 yards which was interesting as the point of impact was the same at 100 yards also. Go figure....

Doe Taken with a Mossberg 100 ATR

Another Tough Go At The Lease.... No Duck Hunting Yet.

2010-11-22T01:40:00.001-06:00

Was a tough weekend trying to bag a legal Buck. Did see one six pointer that may have been legal but was too close a call to risk a mistake. Also, saw a small Buck and a Doe but it was well past legal shooting time when they showed.

Did do some Hog hunting at night! First night, saw several nice size Hogs but was not able to take a shot. Next night, had six Hogs show including a big Boar that stopped short of my blind by about 25 yards. It then began to snorting and stomping after sensing me! Kept the sights on him but opted not to shoot. Was looking for a Sow for the freezer instead.

Definite adrenaline rush....!

Boar Stopped Short At 25 Yards!

Opening Weekend Deer Season.... Tag Is Still Open But.... Ten Pointer Was Finally Found!

2010-11-07T21:17:00.001-06:00

Made it to the Lease this weekend for the start of Regular Deer Season. Tag is still open, so duck hunting plans are on hold for now!

Deer Camp 2010-2011 Season

Regardless, was a great time outdoors. Saw several bucks but none that met the 13" inside spread minimum.

Small Bucks!

Was not all a bust for our Hunting Party.... a nice 10 Point Buck, a Turkey, and a hog were taken this weekend! Of note is the Buck had an old wound that had healed....

Old Buck With An Old Wound!

Looking at our Field Notes, "an 8 or 10 Point Buck was shot high and knocked down but immediately ran off. 10" later it returned chasing a Doe.... A search of the area found no blood trail, but deer hair was found that looked like it came from the back of the Deer.... Consider the Buck lost but not mortally wounded! " The entry was dated November 6, 2005. Game camera pictures over the years noted a Buck with a slightly scarred back frequenting our feeders!

This morning, 5 years and 1 day later, November 7, 2010, a new entry was made, "a 10 Point Buck showed on the south end of the Lease shortly after sunrise. A shot was taken at about 70 yards, the Buck dropped after running 15 yards. On closer inspection, it was the Buck with the slightly scarred back.... Consider the Buck finally found!"

Ten Pointer Was Finally Found!

Tough Go... Opening Day Deer Season

2010-11-06T11:45:00.000-05:00

Tough go this start of Opening Day Deer Season. Only action came last night with a Buck that may or may not have met the minimum 13" inside spread. Oh well, hoping to fill my tag and get back to Duck Hunting!

Regular Duck Season Kicks Off This Weekend In Our Area!

2010-10-26T14:34:00.000-05:00

Regular Duck Season kicks off this weekend in our area! We wish everyone good luck and good hunting this Season.

Not going to make the Season Opener but will be out there later in the Season. Till then, we look forward to reports from the Field.

Feel free to drop us a note by sending emails to our partners - The COAF Field Team (COAF.Weblog@Live.Com)!

Sighted and Ready To Go...!

2010-10-17T16:08:00.001-05:00

Made it to the Gun Range and sighted in the rifle that I plan to use this season. Had used a Remington 788 in 243 Winchester for several seasons. Decided to go with the larger caliber 30-06.

Was going to use a P17 Enfield Military Surplus Rifle; changed my mind and picked up a Mossberg ATR 100 in 30-06 Springfield from Academy Sports.

Noted the various threads and posts on the Hunting Forums saying good and bad things. Ignored the rants and raves and decided to purchase one, for any other reason, than to buy another firearm on the cheap.

Loaded up reloads in 150 grain Speer Round Nose Soft Points, Winchester Cases, CCI Large Rifle Primers, and 44 grains of IMR 3031. After initial bore sighting and adjustments for windage and elevation, Deer Rifle is sighted in a ready to go.!

Sighted in a ready to go!

Handgun, Hog Hunting AK, and Deer Rifle!

More Preparations for Deer Season....

2010-10-16T17:14:00.000-05:00

After reloading .223 Remington last week, groups stayed under an 1" save a called flyer or two. Decided to reload 30-06 Springfield in lieu of the .243 Winchester used the past nine seasons. Loaded up 50 rounds; now need to sight in the rifle!

More Preparations for Deer Season....

Sighting In At The Range.

2010-10-11T20:01:00.000-05:00

More preparations for the upcoming Deer Season. After reloading cartridges yesterday, took the opportunity to sight in my rifle at the local gun range. Fun chore that had to be done. Bottom-line: Rifle is sighted in and ready to go for the upcoming Season! Hope to fill the freezer, then shift focus back to Ducks!

Lease Preparations..... Deer Season!

2010-10-10T23:47:00.000-05:00

Been a busy weekend making repairs at the Lease. Enjoy Duck Hunting but tend to hunt for Deer and Hogs for the freezer. Once filled, it is back to Ducks!

Deer feeder maintenance completed, fences repaired, and trails cleared. Hope to enjoy some good hunts in the near future!

Maintenance Completed!

Final Teal Hunt Closes Out The 2010 Early Teal Season....

2010-09-26T11:40:00.000-05:00

Last day of Early Teal Season for 2010 ends with no shots fired. A few hunters were taking Teal near the feeder creeks and tree lines. But, none passed within range of our decoy spread. Still good to get out and enjoy the opportunity to hunt! Time to make preparations for Deer Season and Regular Duck Season.

Back to the boat ramp without ducks.

PS: Good to meet and hunt with two hunters - James and Hayden! Was a tough go this morning but looking forward to the Regular Season. Good luck and good hunting!

Teal On The Barbie!

2010-09-20T20:43:00.000-05:00

Doing like Crocodile Dundee but is Teal instead of Shrimp on the barbecue. After marinading overnight in apple juice, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of garlic salt, cooked yesterday's bag over hot coals. While grilling over the coals, used Salt Pork to keep from drying out the Teal and Season Salt to bring out the flavor. Cooked to medium rare and served with side dishes of Potato Salad and Bean Soup... yum, yum, yum!

Sunday Morning Hunt Gets A Blue Wing Teal and A Green Wing Teal!

2010-09-19T11:40:00.000-05:00

Had better success this morning compared to Opening Day. Teal were in the area, even managed to get a few to decoy into the set! Took a Green Wing Teal just after Legal Shooting Time. Then, took a Blue Wing Teal around 7:30AM. Fun stuff....!

Opening Day Is Here!

2010-09-11T11:42:00.000-05:00

Early Teal Season opening day is here! Went out this morning, set up decoys and the Roboduck, and managed to get shots off at two flocks passing by. One flock came right over the decoys, knocked one down but did not kill it cleanly. Lost it soon after. Another flock passed by low and fast but did not touch a feather. Promising start, just hate to lose a bird....

Today's Results - 4 Empty Shells!

Was The Day Before Early Teal Season....

2010-09-10T21:18:00.000-05:00

Took the boat to the Lake and ran the motor. Made sure last year's path through the trees wasn't too bad... only had a couple of bumps over submerged logs. Water level is still low despite the heavy rains the past few days. May have to do a lot of rowing to get to the shallower areas. Oh well.... part of the fun and games!

Jon Boat Paint Job!

2010-09-06T21:29:00.000-05:00

Each season brings a new paint job to the trusty, old Jon Boat. Got it done today while cooking out on this Labor Day Holiday! Not bad after a few "brewskies"!

Preseason Preps Continue....

2010-09-05T19:08:00.000-05:00

Preseason preparations continue.... Checked boat lights... needs batteries. Checked Roboduck... needs a new battery. Checked boat motor.... Running smooth! Early Teal Seaon here we come!

Preseason Preparations.... Early Teal Season is Near!

2010-09-04T10:51:00.000-05:00

With Early Teal Season approaching, did a few preseason preparations. Recharge batteries, check gear, fix up the decoys.....

New Season Is Near....

2010-08-27T15:54:00.000-05:00

A new Hunting Season is near as September 1 approaches! Have to take care of a few admin things to prepare for the upcoming Season.

Hunting License
Duck Stamp
Local Lake Permit (Lake Lavon is requiring a Hunting Permit for 2010/2011).

That said, hope this Season is good one. Last year was tough with record rain and lake levels!

Good luck and good hunting!

Season 'Bout Over...

2010-01-06T11:08:00.000-06:00

Although a few weeks remain for this Duck Season, going to end it early for this Hunter. That said, was not able to hunt Lake Lavon as we planned.

Unseen forces - work and personal committments, pulled us away. Regardless, we feel others had an outstanding season!

Wishing our Readers all the best and will look to another good year in 2010!

No Ducks Yet... But, Three Hogs Will Do!

2009-12-14T10:47:00.000-06:00

Having a tough time to hitting the local lake to duck hunt. Second half of the Season started Saturday. Was not there; hope to make it during the Holiday Break. For now, able to take three hogs this weekend at the lease!

Took a Spike Yesterday.

2009-11-26T16:22:00.000-06:00

Took a Spike yesterday morning. Had to watch him closely as he approached to determine if it was a legal Buck or not. County defines a legal Buck as 13" or greater inside spread or one unbranched antler. Have seen others but none met the legal requirement. Luckily this one made the regulations and is now meat for the freezer!

Weekend Hunt Results

2009-11-22T21:18:00.000-06:00

Weekend hunt ended well with a hog and a deer for the freezer. Hog was taken last night, deer this morning.

Also, one Bruiser was taken when it was parting the brush as it approached!

Later, refilled the feeder and the "pig toys" - pvc tubes with holes in them, with corn and put the game camera out. A couple of Sows and Piglets showed later that night.

On The Road!

2009-11-20T21:46:00.002-06:00

On the road tomorrow to the Lease! But, gotta enjoy a Friday night with beer, pizza, and live Blues music with Buzz Andrews and the Band at the Cadillac Pizza Pub!

More info on the hunt this weekend. Wish us luck. For now, let's forget the work week with Buzz!

No Hunting, No Fishing, No Working!

2009-11-12T20:43:00.002-06:00

No hunting, no fishing, no working today.

Just pizza, margaritas, and live Blues music at the Cadillac Pizza Pub.

Taking a brief but well needed break from things as we prep for another fun weekend at the Lease (21-22 Nov'09).

All we can say is the food tastes great and the music is even better!

Gotta love an open mic to bring out the hidden but talented musicians amongst us!

Follow-Up Pictures from Opening Weekend - Coyote and Two Wild Hogs!

2009-11-09T15:28:00.000-06:00

Follow-up pictures from Opening Weekend (Deer Season). A Coyote and Two Wild Hogs taken this past weekend.

Coyote were yelping throughout the night, and the Wild Hogs were on the move less these two porkers!

Coyote and Two Wild Hogs

Sunday Morning, No Deer But Two Turkeys Will Do!

2009-11-08T18:21:00.010-06:00

Sunday morning started slow. We saw several bucks but none that met the 13" minimum. Was able to video tape one small 4-Pointer. Video clip is low resolution and does not show the points clearly. It does show that the deer did not know we were there....

Small 4-Pointer

One of us did manage to take a couple of Turkey; well in time for Thanksgiving! Also, one Coyote was taken! Not a bad weekend to begin the season, even with the temps in the high 70's/low 80's.

Two Turkey!

Saturday A Bust; Save for One 8 Pointer!

2009-11-08T17:58:00.001-06:00

New rules in the county require legal bucks to have a 13" or greater inside spread or one unbranched antler.

That said, Saturday was a bust; save for one 8 pointer! Buck had a 14" inside spread.

Others were able to take a few hogs, else no deer for the remainder on the Lease.

Home away from home!

8-Pointer

Day Before Deer Season!

2009-11-06T16:36:00.001-06:00

It's the day before Regular Deer Season. We are at the Lease and camp is set up. Should be a fun weekend we hope.

Temperatures are warm with a highs forecasted in the 70's. Will play it by ear. Regardless, it is good to be out of the office and outside in the "Woods"!

May go for some hogs this evening. A lot of activity in the area. Would be good to have some meat hogs in the freezer.

Will keep posting results when we get anything!

Season Opener: Blue Skies, No Wind, Tough To Hunt Ducks Today!

2009-11-01T13:50:00.001-06:00

Went early in the morning to search for a huntable location. Area has changed drastically in the last week due to recent rains.

Set up near the area hunted during Early Teal Season. Glad to have rigged decoys for deeper water. Depth ranged from 8 to 10 feet deep.

Between Legal Shooting Time and 8AM, saw a lot of activity; just hard to get them to come within range. Blue skies and no wind made it tough. Ducks opted to stay at "high altitude".

One flock of Widgeon skirted just within range but failed to connect. Shots scared up a Coot near the brushline; dropped him easily with one shot (gonna have to pull out the gumbo recipe for this one).

Later, several flocks of Teal buzzed by "from way high" but no shots were taken.

Will be back for more later in the season. Shifting efforts to meat hunting with opening day of Deer Season next weekend - Deer and Hogs, then back to Ducks!

October 25, 2009 - Sighted Rifles and Shot Skeet

2009-10-25T17:43:00.002-05:00

Sighted in rifles and shot a few skeet in preparation for Deer and Duck Seasons. Rifles are "good to go", still need more work with the shotgun. But, ready to do my part once in the field!

Duck Calling Information

2009-10-18T15:11:00.002-05:00

Here is one article to read in preparation for the upcoming Duck Season. Like the video demo that shows the Hail, Greeting, Comeback, and Feeding Calls. Check it out some time!

Duck Hunting Texas - Public Lands FAQs #3 - "How to use a Duck Call?"

Short Story Break....

2009-10-16T11:29:00.004-05:00

Upcoming Duck Season is near with the following dates noted in the 2009-2010 Texas Waterfowl Digest:

High Plains Mallard Management Unit - Regular Gun: Oct.24-25 and Oct.30-Jan.24

North Zone - Regular Gun: Oct.31-Nov.29 and Dec.12-Jan.24

South Zone - Regular Gun: Oct.31-Nov.29 and Dec.12-Jan.24

Note: Refer to the 2009-2010 Texas Waterfowl Digest for additional restrictions/guidelines on Mottled Ducks, Falconry Season, and Youth Hunter additional days.

FYI: While waiting for the Season to start, ran across a short story by Zeke Rutledge recently published on Associated Content:
Ten Minutes: Short Story About a Decorated Veteran's Return Home.

September 27, 2009 - One Duck in the Flock!

2009-09-27T12:43:00.003-05:00

Made it out to the lake for the last day of Early Teal Season. Teal were moving in the early morning but only one came within range and buzzed the decoys at first light.

Watched others skirting the trees along the shore with one flock heading to a group of hunters. From the shots, it sounded like they connected.

Well past light, a flock of five Teal came out of nowhere, eyed the decoys, and then cupped their wings and came into the set in line with the Roboduck. Managed to bag one - a Green Winged Teal!

Had several more chances but was too slow, not accurate, moon and stars were not aligned. Bottom-line: Shoot one duck in the flock....

September 23, 2009 - No Luck with Teal but What a Sunset!

2009-09-23T21:38:00.002-05:00

Made it out to Lake Lavon again for another chance at Teal. Saw a few flying in the distance and had three land about 100 yards in flooded brush. Else, no luck with Teal but what a sunset!

September 22, 2009 - Duck Hunting Texas Public Lands FAQ#1

2009-09-22T06:50:00.006-05:00

Posted a HubPages article, Duck Hunting Texas - Public Lands FAQs. First in a series of articles about duck hunting on public lands in Texas.

This article focuses on answering the question, "What licenses and permits do I need to hunt ducks in Texas"?

Check it out some time!

September 19, 2009 - Late Afternoon Hunt for Teal, Saw Action But None Bagged!

2009-09-19T21:18:00.006-05:00

Late afternoon hunt for Teal started slow but picked up the last 10" of legal shooting hours. Was calling it a day and decided to load up the boat and head back to the boat ramp. Big mistake!

Had two flocks buzz overhead while picking up decoys. Took a passing shot but did not connect. Hopefully the cool front forecasted later in the week will bring more action!

September 15, 2009 - Evening Teal Hunt @ Lake Lavon

2009-09-15T21:34:00.004-05:00

Decided to make a quick trip to Lake Lavon for a go at Teal. Saw two flocks. Passed on the first flock, went for the second one. MISSED! Need to work on pass shooting at the Skeet Range....

Hot Weather, No Fish.

2009-08-20T21:25:00.004-05:00

Checked out Lake Lavon's Tailrace this afternoon. Hot weather with no fish, not even a strike!

Click-on COAF Fishing Leader Board to checkout top fish caught this year by our readers.

Follow-On "Fishing with Bread" Article.

2009-08-14T18:10:00.003-05:00

Posted a follow-on HubPages article, "Fishing With Bread: Fishing Rigs". Provides details on two fishing rigs we use and illustrations for tying the "Bread Fly", a fishing fly that simulates a piece of bread. Check it out when you get a chance!

Click-on COAF Bulletin Board to post comments about fishing in the area.
Click-on COAF Fishing Leader Board to checkout top fish caught this year by our readers.

Highland Park Shad.

2009-07-28T21:00:00.004-05:00

Stopped by Highland Park @ Lake Lavon for Shad. Caught a few by the boat ramp. Good to go for a trip to Denison Dam Tailrace later this week.

Click-on COAF Fishing Leader Board to checkout top fish caught this year by our readers.

Fishing With Bread

2009-07-18T01:23:00.002-05:00

Posted another HubPages article, Fishing with Bread, that may be of interest to our readers. Relates to catching Catfish using bread for bait in community lakes and ponds. Check it out some time!

Click-on COAF Fishing Leader Board to checkout top fish caught this year by our readers.

Denison Dam's Tailrace Fishing: Top Lures and Baits for Striped Bass

2009-07-16T23:30:00.003-05:00

Between November 2007 and mid-July 2009 we collected data from area fishermen, our Field Team's fishing reports, and onsite observations when fishing for Striped Bass at Denison Dam.

Preliminary analysis of the data showed interesting trends in lures and baits. And, despite the limited data, we considered the results warrant a follow-on effort to validate the findings.

Subsequently, we offer our readers an opportunity to rate the lures and baits listed in our article - "Denison Dam's Tailrace Fishing: Top Lures and Baits for Striped Bass Fishing".

In doing so, we hope our readers' feedback will serve to validate the findings and ultimately help others enjoy success when fishing the tailrace.

Good Luck and Good Fishing!

Denison Dam Tailrace

2009-07-14T02:18:00.003-05:00

Checked out Denison Dam Tailrace this evening in hopes of Striped Bass. Good news - limits were being taken. Bad news - no one from our team caught anything. Tried Live Perch, Rattletraps, Pencil Poppers, and Jigs. Those that were into fish were taking them on Pencil Poppers, Rattletraps, Bombers, and Live Perch. Key to success was the right lure/bait in the right location!

Click-on COAF Bulletin Board to post comments about fishing in the area.
Click-on Surfcasting Without Surf to checkout a new article created by the Field Team.
Click-on COAF Fishing Leader Board to checkout top fish caught this year by our readers.

Texas Rainbow Trout Fishing Article

2009-07-11T02:03:00.002-05:00

FYI: The Field Team posted a new article, Texas Rainbow Trout Fishing - Top 5 Lures and Baits for Community Lakes. We understand the weather is hot and the Winter Trout Stocking is a long way off but our thoughts are to write about colder weather fishing to help us beat the heat. Check it out when you get a chance!

Click-on COAF Bulletin Board to post comments about fishing in the area.
Click-on COAF Fishing Leader Board to checkout top fish caught this year by our readers.

A Few Shad at Highland Park

2009-06-29T22:06:00.002-05:00

Stopped by Highland Park @ Lake Lavon; caught a few Shad by the boat ramp. Others were fishing but the bite was slow.

Click-on COAF Bulletin Board to post comments about fishing in the area.
Click-on Surfcasting Without Surf to checkout a new article created by the Field Team.

Hot Day and No Play!

2009-06-28T19:21:00.001-05:00

Was a hot day! More important, was unable to hit the area lakes and ponds this weekend. Did finish up a HubPage article, "Fishing Denison Dam's Tailrace". Check it out when you get a chance. May be of interest to some of our readers.

Have heard a few reports from the Field Team that fishing in the area remains good. Just plan to follow the summer pattern of early morning and late evening fishing trips.

Highland Park @ Lake Lavon

2009-06-25T22:15:00.003-05:00

Stopped by Highland Park this evening hoping to catch some Shad. Caught a few but not near the numbers as were caught yesterday. Also, caught and released some fingerling yellow(?) or white(?) bass.

Click-on COAF Bulletin Board to post comments about fishing in the area.
Click-on Surfcasting Without Surf to checkout a new article created by the Field Team.

Celebration Park - June 21, 2009

2009-06-21T22:02:00.007-05:00

Stopped by the East Pond at Celebration Park this evening. Fished a Popper without success. Did have a lot of small Bluegill striking the Popper but no hook-ups.

Also, noticed Catfish were swirling on the surface at Bread someone had fed to the Ducks. Should have brought Bread but had opted to stick with a Popper.

FYI: The Field Team has started a bulletin board and posted an article for our readers. Feel free to check them out when you get a chance. See links below.

Click-on COAF Bulletin Board to post comments about fishing in the area.
Click-on Surfcasting Without Surf to checkout a new article created by the Field Team.

Back to Brockdale Park for more Surfcasting

2009-06-19T19:33:00.004-05:00

Back to Brockdale Park for another go at White Bass with Surfcasting Gear. Unfortunately, fish were not cooperating. Not a strike. That said, did not see any schools boiling on the surface like on the other trips. Regardless, was able to get some practice casting for distance!

Click-on COAF Bulletin Board to post comments about fishing in the area.

Sponge Rubber Spider Variant @ Bethany Lakes

2009-05-31T09:55:00.004-05:00

Fished the Back Pond at Bethany Lakes this morning. Caught 7 fish using fishing flies. Caught one Bluegill on a Yellow Popper, and then caught two more Bluegill and four Bass on a Sponge Rubber Spider Variant in Yellow.

Back @ Bethany.

2009-05-17T09:58:00.001-05:00

Back to Bethany this morning. Went for the Catfish but hooked none. Instead, caught and released 2 turtles. Better luck next time.

Bass Spawn @ Bethany Lakes

2009-05-15T20:01:00.001-05:00

Bass are in the shallows on their spawning beds at Bethany Lakes. A lot of string algae but the beds are clearly visible from the bank. Had a few strikes but no solid hook sets this evening. Better luck next time!

Youth Fishing Derby - Bethany Lakes

2009-05-09T11:17:00.003-05:00

Out and about this morning. Stopped by the Main Pond at Bethany Lakes and checked out the City Of Allen Fishing Youth Fishing Derby. Decent crowd with a number of fish caught and kids having fun. Did confirm with an Official that the pond was stocked with Catfish in preparation for the Derby. Good to know as last years stocking provided for some fun fishing later in the Summer!

Slight Rain Delay

2009-05-03T08:15:00.004-05:00

Our inability to post fishing reports due to the recent rains is giving us withdrawals. We are listening intently for reports from several locations in our area - Denison Dam, Lake Lavon, and Lake Lewisville Ecological Learning Area. When the dams are releasing water, the fish activity seems to pickup in the tailraces. So far, no confirmed reports but will keep an eye out.

FYI: An example of the Real Time (Hydropower) Release for Denison Dam is provided in the link. The information is delayed 15" to 30" and may prove useful when planning a trip.

Bethany Ridge Park Pond

2009-05-01T09:09:00.001-05:00

Checked out the pond at Bethany Ridge Park. Had to call it short when I lost my lure but did observe activity along the bank. Looks promising; just need to bring along more than one lure on these quick trips.

Bethany Lakes PM

2009-04-26T19:34:00.001-05:00

Fished Bethany Lakes this evening without success. Bass are looking but not striking at my lure. Will keep plugging away and report results.

Bethany Lakes AM

2009-04-21T09:55:00.002-05:00

Stopped by Bethany Lakes this morning. No hook-ups but Bass were following my lure. Bass seemed to be near the pier and near the "pipe area" in the Upper Pond. Can see them on their beds. May need to switch to an "aggravator" type lure.

Bethany Lakes Lower Pond - Water Level is Low.

2009-04-20T22:02:00.002-05:00

Water level is low at the Lower Pond at Bethany Lakes. Not much fish activity. Hope repairs are completed soon.

Pond at Davis Library

2009-04-19T10:21:00.002-05:00

No luck this morning at the pond at Davis Library in Plano. Saw several Bass in the shallows but none were interested. Cool temps, winds, lure presentation.... Not certain but came away empty this trip.

Cottonwood Creek Trail

2009-04-17T21:29:00.004-05:00

Checked out the pond at Cottonwood Creek Trail. Fished a Black Wooley Bugger in hopes of Bass. No luck. Only light nibbles that were most likely from the small Sunfish in the pond. Water was stained from the recent rains.

Stoney Hollow Park in Plano.

2009-04-17T12:22:00.005-05:00

Field Team reported Bass activity at Stoney Hollow Park in Plano. Sounds promising; may check it out once the rains pass.

"While You Are Dining"

2009-04-13T13:36:00.003-05:00

A member of our Field Team started a new weblog - "While You Are Dining". Its intention is to provide readers suggested foods to order at local eateries in the Collin County (Texas) area. Check it out when you get a chance. Its a "work in-progress" but has a good start.

Out To Lunch

2009-04-11T06:29:00.003-05:00

Went out to lunch yesterday. Stopped by the Thai Cafe in Allen and tried their lunch special. If you like Thai cuisine, you won't be disappointed. Partner had the Pad Thai, and I went with the Pra Ram.

Not sure how to pronounce Pra Ram but it eats well. It is basically pork cooked in a garlic sauce, served over steamed brocolli, and then covered with peanut sauce. Lunch special came with a Spring Roll and choice of soup or salad. Opted for the soup.

Keeping this "hide" in my back pocket for future reference. Just beware Peanut Allergy sufferers, Thai food means peanuts, so keep the Epi Pen near.

Return to Cadillac Pizza Pub for more Blues music.

2009-04-10T10:28:00.004-05:00

Returned to McKinney for another shot of Blues at Cadillac Pizza Pub. A lot of new comers making their music heard at Pub's open mic Blues Jam!

One Bass at Russell Creek Park.

2009-04-05T18:30:00.003-05:00

Caught one Bass that went 12" in size at Russell Creek Park in Plano. Used an Olive Wooley Bugger and only hooked it after working the pond's perimeter for an hour. Strong winds made for an interesting time flyfishing.

Pond at Cottonwood Trail in Allen.

2009-04-05T18:26:00.003-05:00

Noticed a small pond with a fountain near the Cinemark in Allen. Checked it out and caught a few Sunfish on a Prince Nymph and Bead Head Pheasant Tail Nymph. Nothing special; just one to keep in mind at a later date.

Erwin Park Pond in McKinney

2009-04-05T18:22:00.004-05:00

Received an update on Erwin Park Pond in McKinney. Not good news; pond is down to less than 2' deep. Will need to wait awhile to fish this one again.

Two Ponds and a Creek.

2009-04-05T10:19:00.004-05:00

Fished two ponds and a creek in Plano and Allen this morning. Mainly Sunfish of the "long-eared" variety. More details on our weblog.

Out and About This Morning.

2009-04-02T09:13:00.002-05:00

Ran this morning. A lot of wind and more brewing. Did check out Bethany Lakes Upper Pond. Minimal activity noted. Bass seem lockjawed. Could be the wind. Could be my lure selection. Will make adjustments and post updates.

Out and About with a Prince Nymph Fishing Fly.

2009-04-01T20:04:00.004-05:00

Was out and about the early evening at Celebration Park's North Pond and Bethany Creek Pond's feeder canal. Testing the waters for Bluegill using a Prince Nymph fishing fly. Fish are in the upper column and are active.

Bethany Lakes - Upper Pond

2009-03-31T16:34:00.002-05:00

Checked out the Upper Pond and noticed a lot of floating debris near the pier area. Tried to fish a streamers but could not get a good cast due to the wind. Also, had trouble with hang-ups and snags. Going to give it a rest until the wind calms and the temps warm up more.

Good luck and good fishing!

Bethany Lakes Lower Pond

2009-03-29T09:00:00.006-05:00

Checked out Bethany Lakes yesterday. The Lower Pond's water level remains low despite the recent rain. Spillway is not working properly as water is flowing around it due to erosion. Reported the issue to Parks and Recreation.

Did fish the area despite the strong wind, cold temps, and low water. Surprised to get a few strikes working the surface.

Caddilac Pizza Blues Jam

2009-03-26T21:59:00.003-05:00

Out and about in McKinney enjoying pizza, beer, and music at Caddilac Pizza's open mike Blues Jam! Check it out some time.

At the Movies.

2009-03-24T22:42:00.004-05:00

Kept active with an early morning run, and then a quick trip to Bethany Lakes and caught a Bass.

Closed out the day by taking in a movie. Watched the movie "Knowing". Not sure why it made number one this past weekend. Preferred "I Love You Man" over it.

Posted reviews of both movies on our movie review blog. Check it out some time.

Russell Creek Park in Plano

2009-03-22T10:34:00.004-05:00

Fished Russell Creek Park in Plano this morning. Caught 3 small Bass ranging 10" to 11" in size. No bruisers but still fun. Did get "attacked" by a couple of Muscovy Ducks while fishing. Suspect I was near a nest when one decided to nip at my ankle. Will post fish pictures/details on our weblog shortly.

Beware of Ducks!

One Bass @ Bethany

2009-03-21T09:23:00.003-05:00

Stopped by Bethany Lakes for more fun with the Bass this morning. Only caught one that went about 11" in size but did see larger Bass working the shallows and chasing baitfish.

Brief Update @ Bethany Lakes.

2009-03-20T12:29:00.001-05:00

Fished Bethany Lakes this morning and caught 2 Bass and a Bluegill flyfishing. More surface activity compared to yesterday. Looks like yesterday's cool front slowed the action temporarily. Will post pics on our weblog later. Good luck and good fishing!

No Hook Ups Today.

2009-03-19T20:28:00.001-05:00

Fished Bethany Lakes Lower and Upper Ponds without success. Tried Bethany Ridge Park Pond without success. Went down the street to Bethany Creek Pond without success.

Decided to try Bethany Lakes Upper Pond again. Nada! Fish were not as active as the other day. Gonna have to try again later. No hook ups today.

Bethany Creek Pond - Bass

2009-03-19T09:06:00.004-05:00

Received a report from one of our weblog readers on the fishing activity at Bethany Creek Pond - a neighborhood pond located east of Bethany Lakes.

Caught a 16.5" Bass using an artificial minnow. Hooked two others about the same size but did not land them. All were caught/observed near the bridge. Also, used a "fuzzy bugger" but the fish were not interested.

Olive Wooly Bugger and Bass @ Bethany Lakes

2009-03-17T22:04:00.003-05:00

Olive Wooly Bugger continues to produce at Bethany Lakes with a few scrappy Bass caught this evening. More details on the weblog.

Large Koi Caught and Released @ Bethany

2009-03-16T19:25:00.004-05:00

While out and about this evening, stopped by Bethany Lakes. Saw several folks fishing the ponds, observed two fishermen catching fish.

Both were by the pond nearest Joe Farmer Recreation Center. One caught a Bass while flyfishing; the other caught and released a large orange Koi on spinfishing gear!

March 15, 2009 - Bethany Lakes AM

2009-03-15T11:22:00.003-05:00

Slow morning but managed to land a 4lbs Bass. More details on the weblog.

Bunnies in the Garden.

2009-03-11T10:01:00.003-05:00

Spring is here. While out gardening discovered a nest of bunnies.

Rooster Tails at Bethany

2009-03-09T15:35:00.000-05:00

Fished with Rooster Tails at Bethany Lakes today. Used White, Black, and Yellow. Several strikes but no hook-ups on the Black Rooster Tail. None on the White or Yellow Rooster Tails.

Stay active; good luck and good fishing!

March 8, 2009 - Another Report @ Bethany

2009-03-08T10:26:00.004-05:00

Fish remain active with a lot of surface activity noted this morning in the lower pond. Bass were in the shallows chasing something. Note sure what. Observed Bass as well as other fish being caught. More details on our Weblog.

March 7, 2009 - Bass Active @ Bethany Lakes

2009-03-07T09:16:00.004-06:00

Stopped by Bethany Lakes' Lower Pond (pond closest to Joe Farmer Recreation Center) this morning. Observed several fishermen catching Catfish and Bass. Picture of one of the Bass is posted below.

March 6, 2009 - Catfish at Celebration Park

2009-03-06T13:41:00.003-06:00

With the trees in bloom, decided to checkout Celebration Park's East Pond. Caught a 17" Catfish and missed a few others on light tackle. Used Bread fished on the bottom.

March 2, 2009 - Towne Lake Update

2009-03-02T23:53:00.002-06:00

Was worried that the Cormorant have cleaned out the Trout at Towne Lake. However, a member of our Field Team reports catching Trout this evening. So, the Trout seem to be holding their own for now!

March 1, 2009 - Towne Lake Trout Fishing Update.

2009-03-01T16:44:00.003-06:00

Fished the early afternoon and limited out on Trout. Fished Corn on the bottom and Bread free-lined. Cormorant showed up and started taking their share. Best bet is to fish Towne Lake soon.

February 22, 2009 - "Gold" Trout @ Towne Lake.

2009-02-22T11:52:00.002-06:00

Decided to fish Towne Lake in McKinney this morning while the bite is still on. Caught a limit that included one "Gold" Trout. See weblog for more details.

Mavs Win Tonight!

2009-02-21T23:26:00.002-06:00

Had a last minute offer to see the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. Took up the offer and watched the Mavs win 116 to 95 over Sacramento.

McKinney Trout Derby Update

2009-02-21T13:51:00.002-06:00

Joined the fun this morning in McKinney and limited out on Trout. Even saw a nice Bass caught this morning. More details on our weblog.

Picture of the Bass!

McKinney Trout Derby @ Towne Lake

2009-02-20T11:05:00.004-06:00

Checked the City of McKinney website and noticed a Trout Derby is planned for Saturday, 21 February. May give it a go despite the cold front forecasted tomorrow.

February 16, 2009 - Work and No Play Today, But...

2009-02-16T21:07:00.001-06:00

All work and no play today. But, am looking forward to more Trout fishing this weekend. Towne Lake in McKinney will receive a Trout Stocking on Sunday, 22 February!

For those who can breakaway from work during the week, try Community Park Pond in Rowlett or Frisco Commons. Both have received Trout Stockings on 6 and 15 February, respectively. Be prepared and bring various baits - Corn, Bread, and Cheese and then Trout Powerbait in Chartreuse and/or Orange.

Stay Active, and Good Luck and Good Fishing!

Rowlett Trout Update.

2009-02-14T17:21:00.003-06:00

Slow bite at Rowlett today but fishing buddy and I did catch several Trout. Details posted on our Weblog. Not sure if we will be able to fish again this weekend. But, we will be out and about again next weekend. Most likely in Mckinney at Towne Lake. Trout stocking is scheduled for 22 February!

February 14, 2009 - Getting Ready.

2009-02-14T10:26:00.000-06:00

Getting ready to head out for more Trout Fishing. Will report back on how we do; just need to bundle up as it is cold. Had to work this morning but did find out about a website that lets you create a "radio station" using music genres that you pick. Here is one we created to test it out - radio station.

Stay Active, and Good Luck and Good Fishing!