Lake Fork Area News

July 2015
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Page 1
FREE
Bubba Ryan from Lou
Chandler Inc. catching
some Lake Fork giants with
guide James Caldemeyer
“The Little Paper With Big Bass Results”
Lake Fork Area News
July 2015
Page 3
Lake Fork
Catfish Classic
Page 6
James Caldemeyer’s
Lake Fork Trophy
Bass Report
Page 20
Lake Fork
Chamber of
Commerce Report
Page 21
Lake Fork
Sportsman’s
Association Report
Visit www.lakeforkchamber.org and www.lakeforksa.com
Page 2
www.lakeforkareanews.com
“Tired of the rest, come to the best”
July 2015
~Since 1984~
SARTIN MARINE
2015 Boats in Stock
Since 1969 RV service has been our business.
Let our trained techs help you with any RV problem.
www.sartinmarine.com
We sell
American Steel Carports
and Buildings
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
McFadden’s R.V.Emory,Texas
TOLL FREE 866-920-8331
FM 514
FM 515
AUTHORIZED
SALES SERVICE
& PARTS
IN
RT INE
SA AR
M
HWY 154
290 FM 1567 West • 8 Miles South of
Sulphur Springs off Hwy 154
N
I-30 Sulphur Springs
OPEN: TUES. - SAT.
FM 1567
903-383-7726
Quitman
S
McFadden’s RV
299 S. Texas St. (Hwy 19 S.)
Emory Tx 75440
903-474-9448
www.mcfaddensrv.com
FINANCING AVAILABLE
July 2015
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Page 3
Lake Fork RV & Auto/Diamond Park Homes Inc.
(903-765-1128)
Service and Warranty Center
•Atwood •Carrier • Dometic •Nordine •Norcold •Suburban
Ask for Shawn or Michael
2810 N. FM 17 (Across from Lighthouse) 3 miles N. of Alba
See our other ad on page 9
Larry Jenkins of Daingerfield, Texas wins the 2015 Lake Fork Catfish Classic
By Dick Walker
(June 26 – Lake Fork, TX)...
Lake Fork’s Seventh Annual
Catfish Classic concluded on
Sunday with Larry Jenkins of
Daingerfield, Texas taking the
$5000 bonus prize for the largest fish weighed in the two-day
Tournament. Jenkins landed
his 10.59 pound blue catfish
on Sunday during the 12:00 to
1:00 hour.
Jenkins and all the other
Tournament anglers competed
individually for big catfish
with cash prizes awarded for
the four largest fish weighed
each hour and bonuses paid to
the those catching the largest
seven fish overall. Including
the hourly payout, Jenkins collected a total of $5400 for his
fish. This year’s payout for all
hourly and tournament top finishers was $24,000.
George Hearn of Irving,
Texas took second place and
pocketed $2,400 in hourly and
Enjoy life with a new home on YOUR land,
Ask me how!
Cindy Heinemann
469-815-3016 cell
Clayton Homes Factory Outlet
RBI#34629
“Opening doors to a better life, One home at a time”
Lenders available!
America’s Premier Home Builder!
A Berkshire Hathaway Company
Built for life, made for you!
Home/Land Repos too!
bonus money for a 9.75 pound
channel cat weighed during the
seventh fishing hour on Saturday. Will Stroman of Emory,
Texas captured third place
and a $2,300 reward for his
9.56 pound channel cat that he
caught on Saturday along with
a first and three seconds during
the hourly payouts. Andrew
Taylor of Emory, Texas placed
fourth with a 9.47 pound channel worth a $400 payday. Rick
Elliott of Granbury, Texas
pocketed $300 for his 5th place
8.93 pound cat. Bobby Driskell
of Grapeland, TX followed in
6th place with an 8.44 pound
catfish and rounding out the top
seven was Robby Richardson
of Point, Texas, Texas with a
nice 8.38 pounder.
The most active hourly winners were Will Stroman of
Emory, TX and Rick Elliott
of Granbury, Texas with 4 fish
weighed during the course of
the two-day tournament. The
top youth angler were Will
Stroman of Emory, Texas with
a 9.56 pound channel cat.
Six year old River Miller of
Kaufman, Texas took top ladies honors with 5.98 pounds.
Ricky Blackburn of Lone Star,
Texas, topped all other seniors
with a 5.83 pound channel.
The Lake Fork Catfish Classic was organized by the Lake
Fork Sportsman’s Association
and Lake Fork Chamber of
Commerce. Oak Ridge Marina
served as its host. The Lake
Fork Sportsman’s Association
is a non-profit organization that
was formed in 1999 to promote
and help conserve Lake Fork
as a world-class fishery. Its
members are mainly lake-area
homeowners, businesses, and
guides. More information on
the Association and its mission
can be found on facebook and
its web-site, www.lakeforksa.
com.
The Lake Fork Catfish Classic’s major underwriters are the
Wood County Industrial Commission, City National Bank,
Peoples Telephone and Scotty’s
Magic Bait. Other contribuContinued on page 4
Embroidery & Alterations
SHOP
HERE
SHOP
HERE
SHOP
SHOP
HERE
HERE
SHOP
HERE
BEFORE
SHOP
HERE
BEFORE
BEFORE
BEFORE
BEFORE
YOU
BUY
BEFORE
YOU
BUY
YOU
YOU
BUY
BUY
YOU
BUY
YOU
BUY
Home &
& Land
Land Deals
•• Repos
SHOP
HERE
Home
Deals
Repos
Home
Home
&
&
Land
Land
Deals
Deals
•
•
Repos
Repos
Home
&
Land
Deals
•
Repos
•
New
&
Used
Homes
•
Modular
Home
BEFORE
Home
&
Land
Deals
•
Repos
New
& Used
Used
Homes
Modular
Home
• •New
New
&&Used
Used
Homes
Homes••••Modular
Modular
Home
Home
•• New
&
Homes
Modular
Home
YOU
BUY
•
New
&
Used
Homes
•
Modular
Home
Oak Creek
Creek
Oak
Oak
Oak
Creek
Creek
Oak
Creek
3
Bed/2
Bath
Home
&Bath
Land Deals • Repos
Oak
Creek
3 Bed/2
Bed/2
Bath
3
3
Bed/2
Bed/2
Bath
3
Bath
$39,900
3
Bed/2
Bath
$39,900
•
New
&
Used
$39,900
$39,900Homes • Modular Home
$39,900
$39,900
New
Redman
New
Redman
Oak
Creek
New
New
Redman
Redman
New
Redman
2 Bed/2
Bed/2
Bath
2
Bath
New
Redman
2
2
Bed/2
Bed/2
Bath
Bath
3
2 Bed/2
Bath
$29,900
$29,900
2
Bed/2
Bath
$29,900
$29,900
$39,900
$29,900
$29,900
New Location
New
Location
New
New
Location
Location TX 75402
New
Redman
New
4342
Hwy
34
S. Location
Greenville,
4342
Hwy
34
S.
Greenville,
TX
75402
New
Location
2
Bed/2
Bath
4342
4342
Hwy
Hwy
34
34
S.
S.
Greenville,
Greenville,TXTX
75402
75402
4342 Hwy903-883-0219
34 S. Greenville,
TX
75402
RBI
36185
4342
Hwy
34
S.
Greenville,
TX
75402
RBI
36185
903-883-0219
$29,900
36185
36185
903-883-0219
903-883-0219 RBIRBIRBI
36185
903-883-0219
903-883-0219 RBI 36185
New Location
4342 Hwy 34 S. Greenville, TX 75402
903-883-0219 RBI 36185
Page 4
www.lakeforkareanews.com
903-765-3209
800-657-3156
LAKE FORK RV REPAIR
July 2015
4340 N. FM 17
Alba, TX 75410
2015 Lake Fork Catfish Classic
Continued from page 3
tors included Brookshires of
Emory, and Rains County Economic Development. KMOO
99.9 FM served as the event’s
official radio station.
The 2016 event is tentatively
scheduled for June 18 and 19.
Details and other information
will be posted on the Lake Fork
Sportsman’s Association facebook page and web-site as they
are developed. The Sportsman’s Association and Lake
Fork Area Chamber of Commerce are both non-profit organizations dedicated to conserving and promoting Lake Fork as
a world class fishery. More on
the Association can be found at
www.lakeforksa.com and more
on the Chamber can be found
at www.lakeforkchamber.org.”
Second place winner George
Hearn, Irving, TX, 9.75 pounds.
Larry Jenkins from Daingerfield, TX with his 10.59 winning
catfish.
Dick Walker photo
Will Stroman from Emory, TX
took third place in the tournament as well as top youth with a
nice 9.56 pounder.
Top female winner River Miller
from Kaufman, TX 5.98 pounds.
Dick Walker photo
(PG-13) 1:30, 6:50
T BUSINESS IN RAINS COUNTY
(PG-13) 4:15, 9:25
July 2015
Email pictures of your customers fish to [email protected]
S COUNTY LEADER
THIS IS A FREE SERVICE TO ALL LAKE FORK BUSINESSES
3/473-2653 • FAX: 903/473-0050
der.com • Email: [email protected]
ADVERTISING
ATTENTION LAKE FORK BUSINESSES
Nancy Fenter, Mgr.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Bonnie Burch
ROUTE SALES
Robert Dean
Kay Thompson
PRODUCTION
Audy Cody
Deborah Walker
Lauren Withrow
esday except the last Tuesday in December
st Office in Emory, Texas, as a Periodical
903-268-7552
903-878-2451 800-442-8266
Online tickets at starplexcinemas.com
Sells Shingle Recycling
903-348-5237
PUBLISHERS OF THE RAINS COUNTY LEADER:
00
00
00
Service
2nd 1/2 OFF
Free Estimates
7/29-THE
IRON GIANT 9-6 Saturday 9-1
Monday-Friday
BETTER and
CHEAPER than
rock or gravel
J. H. Bradford - 1901-1904
Tom W. Hill - 1904-1937
Earl Hill, Sr. - 1937-1960
Kathleen Hill Becknell - 1962-1995
1401 E. Joe Ramsey Blvd. • Greenville
visit us on the web:
http://geusnet.com/~majestictheatre/
or call for show times
4858 TX Hwy 154 (corner of 154 & CR 1174)
2 1/2 Minutes South of Walmart
Every Tuesday At 10:00 a.m.
Get
Admission IsBuy
$2.00/1Person
Recycled asphalt
shingle grindings
MAJESTIC 12 THEATRE
Page
BIG SMITH’S BBQ903-455-5400
AND DIPNET
2476 West State Hwy 154 Quitman
• Summer Kids Movies
nside Rains County, 1 year, $25.00; Out of County, 1
1 year, $35.00; E-Leader (online edition), 1 year,
offered to Rains County citizens age 60 and over on
JD’s Backhoe
GUARDIANS OF THE
GALAXY
East
Texas Optical,
Inc.
& Trenching
7:00 p.m.
master: Send Form 3579 to:
OFFICE
For more info, call Detective
Barry Oliver at 972-205-2087,
email [email protected]
or www.MadDogMoore.com.
www.lakeforkareanews.com
STARTING THURSDAY
NIGHT 7/31
ablished June 10, 1887
ation Number USPS 454-560)
ox 127, Emory, TX 75440
DAWN OF THE PLANET OF
THE APES IN 3-D
* Dust free
903-438-1547
AlongTHEATER
with our Famous
BBQ
SELECT
July/August
Live Production
(LAKE COUNTRYNOW
PLAYHOUSE)
SERVING
SCHEDULE
Mineola
903-569-2300
Catfish,
Shrimp & Ribeye
Steaks!
www.lakecountryplayhouse.com
NOW SHOWING
July 24, 25, 26, 27, 31 August 1, 2,3
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s
SOUTH
PACIFIC
Directed by Brett Murphy
* Nail free
Choroegraphed by Wesley Johnstone
Tickets: $15 Adults • $7 Students
At the Historic Select Theater
114 N. Johnson Street • Mineola
* 100% synthetic
material
ROADS — DRIVEWAYS — PARKING LOTS
Visit our website at sellsrecyling.com.
Pastures and Lots
Jimmy Rogers
Home: 903-878-2266
Mobile: 903-850-2244
Jimmy’s Mowing Service
AA Tree Service
25 Yrs Experience
Dave Morgan • Cell: 903-458-0644
Answered 7 Days A Week
Trimming, Topping, Tree Removal,
Stump Grinding & Land Cleaning, Plant Trees, Firewood
Senior & Vet Discount
Residential & Commercial FREE Estimates
No Job Too Small or Large
WE DO THEM ALL!
Thurs., Fri., Sat. evenings at 7:30,
Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m.
Call 903-569-2300
for reservations & info
BURNIN STUMP LODGE
LAKE FORK
Located on FM 515, 6 miles east of Emory
395 CR 1516 Alba, TX 75410
(903) 850-1189
(903) 850-1190
E-mail: [email protected]
www.burninstump.com
CHL Classes
NRA Pistol Shooting Course
NRA Home Defense
4387 FM 515
Emory,TX 75440
903-473-3780
Tues - Sat 9-5
https/www.facebook.com/lakeforkfirearms
www.lakeforkfirearms.com
B & B Upholstery
Boats • Autos • Furniture Repairs...
Terry Bernhard
Owner
903-519-0187
711 Indian Gap Quitman, TX
P.O. 718 Quitman, TX 75783
[email protected]
5
Page 6
www.lakeforkareanews.com
July is SMOKIN HOT
on Lake Fork! The
bass fishing couldn’t
be better as we head
into the summer. If
you can stand the heat
you’ll want to head
this way for some trophy bass action. It’s
also a great opportunity to spend a day at the lake
with the kids while they are out
of school for summer vacation.
Here are some helpful tips and
techniques that will help you
catch big bass on Lake Fork
this summer.
The water conditions at Lake
Fork are very good right now.
The lake is currently 403.30,
which is above full pool by
about 4 inches. The water temperature has been ranging from
82-88 degrees. Most of the lake
is fairly clear with some stained
areas around wind blown banks
and in the backs of a few creeks.
I attribute the improved water
clarity to the new vegetation
that is starting to grow again in
the backs of the creeks.
The shallow water bite has
remained reliable due to the unseasonably cooler weather that
we have been having this year
and all the freshly flooded cover
on the banks for the bass to get
in. June fished more like May
normally does and I expect July
to fish more like June which
will be good! The fish are feeding early and late up shallow
in 2-6 feet on top water baits.
The frog has been best for me
around the shallow grass. Hollow frogs like the spro types are
good. You will also find some
areas back in the creeks where
the bass are schooling on bait.
My best bait for them has been
a walking bait like a zara spook.
A.J.’S
FISH HOUSE
903-473-4198 • 5375 N. Hwy. 17
ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET
We Serve United States
Farm Raised Catfish
Fried Shrimp • Boiled Shrimp
Chicken Tenders • Hush Puppies & Fries
Dessert Included • Menu Items Available
Voted best catfish in North East Texas
2014 by County Line Magazine
• B.Y.O.B.• NO WAIT
• SEATING FOR 400
• ON SITE CATERING
• PLENTY OF PARKING
• PRIVATE BANQUET ROOM
• SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNTS
OPEN: Thurs.-Sat. 4:00 to 9:00 PM
OPEN Sunday 11:00 to 2:00
Any shad pattern will do. When
the fish are reluctant to bust a
top water lure I am opting for a
Santone Lures Swim Jig in the
5/16 oz size tipped with a Berkley Havoc Grass Pig. My favorite colors on the swim jig are
Pake’s Perch, JC’s Spicy Craw,
or River Bream. I am also
catching a lot of fish with my
clients in mid depths from 1014 feet early on Texas rigged
Berkley 10” Powerworms with
a 3/8 Elite Tungsten weight
and a 5/0 hook. Best colors
have been blue fleck, plum,
and watermelon red. The best
areas to check out for these
fish are along creek channel
edges, shallow humps, points,
and old pond dams. A Santone
football head jig in the 1/2 or
5/8 oz size is also choice for
catching these fish. It’s a perfect size and weight to imitate
a crawfish or bream, which the
bass are feeding heavily on this
time of year. Best colors have
been JC’s Spicy Craw, Mexican
Heather, PB & J, and Bass Candy. You can check them out at
www.santonelures.com or they
are available around the lake at
Lake Fork Marina, Oak Ridge
Marina, and Pope’s Landing.
July 2015
The deep bite is really kicking off this month. We saw
some deep action in June but
those big groups were hard
to find. It didn’t really get hot
enough to get those large congregations of fish piled up out
in deep water. Once we see the
thermocline set in and the heat
bears down for the summer
we will start to see those big
schools of fish congregated in
one area. The best way to read
all these water situations and
understand how fish relate to
conditions out deep is to have
great electronics. I rely on my
Lowrance Gen 3 graphs to tell
me exactly where and what the
fish are doing out deep. If you
are weak in this area of your
fishing (most anglers are), now
is the time of year to spend lots
of time out on the lake learning.
The bass are starting to stack
up on points, humps, and roadbeds right now in 18-28 ft consistently. But you can expect
to see numbers of bass move
even deeper as the month progresses. I have already started
to see some fish showing up
in 30+ water. Look for the big
schools of bait in these areas
as most all the fish are relating
See Us on Facebook
(Carts To Go in Texas)
to large schools of shad. Once
you’ve located a school of bass
out in the depths of Lake Fork
you can catch them on a variety of lures. If the bass are on
or close to the bottom, I will
use a Carolina rig with an Elite
Tungsten 1 oz weight and a 4
ft leader with a 3/0 wide gap
hook. The best baits for me
have been the Berkley Havoc
Jerk, Havoc Backslide, or any
centipede/ring fry type bait.
Best colors have been watermelon red, green pumpkin, and
chartreuse pepper. I always like
to throw a Santone football
head jig on these deep bass too.
Best sizes are the ¾-1 oz and
you can’t go wrong with my
“new” JC’s Spicy Craw color.
Mexican Heather and PB & J
and Bass Candy colors have
also produced well. The jig
will often times catch the biggest fish in the school as its size
and profile appeals to the larger
fish. You will also find a lot of
bass out deep that are very suspended this month. They can be
challenging to catch for sure! I
will cycle through a number of
baits to determine which one
they want best. The deep diving crank bait is a good one
Continued on page 7
CARTS
TO GO
Used - Refurbished - Custom
CLOSED
July 20 - Sept. 2
Golf Carts
214-673-1313 (cell)
903-878-2742
Lake Fork
One mile south of
Hwy 154 bridge
(across from Trophy Lodge)
July 2015
Trophy Bass Report
Continued from page 6
to start with. Any shad pattern
will work right now. You can
also catch them on the Alabama
rig or a single weighted swim
bait like the Berkley Powerbait
Swim Shad. If the bass are suspended in depth ranges that are
hard to reach with these baits
you’ll want to give the Lake
Fork flutter spoon a try. This
thing will flat out catch em and
can be fished anywhere in the
water column. If you want to
catch a giant, this is a strong
favorite this month. I rig mine
on the “new” Abu Garcia Ike
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Series rod 7’6” medium action
with 17 lb Trilene 100% Fluorocarbon.
Well that about covers everything that’s going on at Lake
Fork this month. I wish everyone traveling out for summer
vacations and family time a
safe and memorable trip. Please
be safe on the water! There are
more drownings during the
summer months than anytime
of the year. Be sure to operate
your boat safely, wear a life
vest, and a kill switch. It’s also
important to wear sunscreen
and drink plenty of water and
Gatorade to stay hydrated. Heat
exhaustion is very prevalent in
the summer months and will
sneak up on you fast!
If you are headed to Lake
Fork in pursuit of a trophy
bass and are looking to book a
guide, I would enjoy the opportunity to take you or your group
fishing and show you a great
time on Lake Fork. I still have
a few dates available for summer and am taking fall reservations as well. Please be sure to
start thinking about scheduling
your 2016 date soon as I fill
up very fast for spring! I also
Page 7
have gift certificates available
for those of you that are interested in purchasing a friend or
loved one a guided trip on Lake
Fork. You can contact me to
make your reservation at 903736-9888 or send me an email
at lakeforktrophybass@yahoo.
com You can also visit my website for more information about
Lake Fork and my guide ser-
Brandon Riley with his new
personal best caught on a
Santone jig while fishing
with Lake Fork Guide James
Caldemeyer
Jackie and Jack York had a
fun day of fish catching on
Lake Fork with Guide James
Caldemeyer
It’s “all hands on deck” while
fishing Lake Fork with Guide
James Caldemeyer
Joey Stewart and his son had
a great day on Lake Fork.
They caught several big
bass like this one with Guide
James Caldemeyer
vice at www.officiallakeforktrophybass.com You can find
me on Facebook and follow my
official Lake Fork Guide page
at https://www.facebook.com/
lakeforkfishingguides
I would also like to thank all
of my 2015 sponsors for their
support in my guiding and professional tournament fishing as
well: Ranger Boats, Mercury
Outboards, Toyota, I Am Second, Interstate Batteries, Lowrance, Power Pole, Berkley,
Abu Garcia, Santone Lures,
Leer, Carhartt, Costa Del Mar,
and Elite Tungsten.
Psalms 37:4 Take delight in
the Lord and he will give you
the desires of your heart
Tight Lines and God Bless
Place Your
Ad Today!
Call Shirley
903-885-7223
Lake Fork Resort
5004 N. FM 17
Alba, Texas 75410
800-230-4367 • 903-765-2987
lakeforkresort.com
Email: [email protected]
and
Farm Tires • Full Service Oil & Lube
• Experienced Staff • Tire Repair
All Major Brands of Tires & Oil
2 Miles South of I-30 on Hwy. 19
Mon.-Fri. 8 to 5:30 Sat. 8 to 12
903-439-0010
27 ROOM MOTEL • RV PARK
Motel & Park Have Access to Swimming
Pool & FREE High Speed Wireless Internet
ANNUAL SITES AVAILABLE
GAS • CONVIENCE STORE
• BOAT RAMP • BOAT SLIPS
• GUIDE SERVICE
• RESTAURANT
• PLAYGROUND AREA
• TACKLE
• FISHING LICENSE
Page 8
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Lake Fork Area NewsPlace Your Ad Today!
903-885-7223
Email: [email protected]
2015 Mad Dog Moore Memorial
Team Bass Tournament
$10,000 Guaranteed
in Cash and Prizes
September 12th, 2015
Oak Ridge Marina
Lake Fork, Texas
Fishermen and Spectators:
Live Entertainment from Billie Jo
July 2015
New Bass license plate aims to
increase funding for fisheries
AUSTIN— The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is re-introducing its largemouth bass conservation license plate with a new graphic
design. Artwork on the new plate depicting a jumping bass chasing
a lure was created by well-known wildlife artist Clemente Guzman.
In an online contest to determine the new plate design, Guzman’s
jumping bass received the most votes from anglers with more than
4,000.
“Our hope is that this more robust bass will appeal to more anglers
who will want to display this plate on their vehicles and boat trailers. By purchasing this specialty plate they will help provide critical funding for Texas’ fish management programs,” says Dave Terre,
Inland Fisheries Management and Research Chief. “The more plates
purchased by anglers, the more funding will be available to help keep
Texas one of the best places to fish in the country.”
The new plate launched May 25, at the Toyota Texas Bass Classic
on Lake Fork. Plates can be purchased online at www.ConservationPlate.org/Bass or at local tax county offices for $30/year, of which
$22/plate goes to TPWD.
“The bass plate was one of the first plates we introduced back
in 2002 and we wanted to take advantage of the new digital printing capabilities at Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and give this
plate a much-needed facelift” says Janis Johnson, TPWD marketing
specialist who manages the conContinued on page 9
Ferguson and others beginning at
11AM. Weigh-in begins at 2pm.
Join us for a HUGE Raffle, open
to the public, beginning
immediately after weigh-in.
Raffle Tickets are $1.00 each or
25 for $20.00.
Junction of Hwy 515 & CR 1970 • Yantis, Tx.
903-383-7121
The Raffle includes an
autographed Kevin Fowler Guitar!
Information available at www.MadDogMoore.com
Proceeds are donated to the Shriners Hospitals for Children
We are a 501(c) 3 Charitable Organization - E.I.N. # 26-1332125
Store Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 5:30 to 7:00
Fri.-Sat. 5:30 to 9:00 • Sun. 5:30 to 6:00
Owners: John & JoAnne Heimgartner
July 2015
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Page 9
License plate
Continued from page 8
servation license plate program. “In
2008 we redesigned our white-tailed deer plate and sales increased
20 percent. We’re aiming for similar results with the new bass plate.”
TPWD now offers seven conservation license plates, including
the recently introduced hummingbird and rattlesnake plates and the
horned lizard plate (all three benefit native wildlife), the white-tailed
deer (benefitting big game management); and the camping and bluebonnet plates (both benefitting state parks) These specialty plates
have generated more than $7 million for conservation efforts in Texas
since the first plate was introduced in 1999.
The plates are available for cars, trucks, motorcycles, trailers and
RVs for an annual fee of only $30. This fee does not replace the regular vehicle registration cost. Specialty plates may be purchased at any
time of the year independent of vehicle registration renewal.
For more information about specific projects that have benefitted
from funds generated from the conservation license plate program,
visit www.conservationplate.org/projects .
Toyota has been a proud sponsor of the TPWD Conservation License Plate program since 2003.
Park Homes
Custom Built
Kick back and relax...
NORTHSHORE LANDing
Boating•Fishing
Hiking•Bird Watching
•Cabins (Choice of two, sleeps 2-4)
•Guesthouse (Accommodates up to
six people)
•Stocked Pond (Relax by or play in)
•Boat Storage • RV Parking
WiFi•Fish Cleaning Hut
Laundry Facilities•Picnic Tables
Children and pets welcome!
LakeForkRVandStorage.com
903-473-4087 • 660 CR 3325 Emory, TX
Located 5 miles north of Emory with easy access just off Hwy 19
HANDYMAN SPECIAL $21,900
www.
diamond
park
homes
.com
Email
diamond
parkhomes
@gmail
.com
Lake Fork Area News
Place Your
Ad Today!
903-885-7223
Email:
[email protected]
We
are the
Builder
2810 N. FM 17
Alba, Texas 75410
903-765-1128
Fax: 903-765-3338
With or
Without
Lofts
ALSO...WE ARE
Lake Fork RV/AUTO INC.
SERVICE AND WARRANTY CENTER
A/C • Ref. • Furnace • Water Heaters
nce
a
r
u
Ins ims
Cla
•Dometic
•Nordine
•Atwood
•Coleman
•Norcold
•Suburban
Page 10
www.lakeforkareanews.com
A&F RV Resort
!
NEW N!
E
P
O
NOW
On the beautiful shores
of Lake Fork!
Long Term Lease-Waterfront Spaces
(Limited Amount)
Short Term Spaces Available
All Have Full Hook-Ups
Call for Reservations
Floyd 903-285-5032
Arlon 903-474-3218
[email protected]
Located on Lake Fork!
9678 Hwy 515 Alba, Tx 75410
July 2015
TPWD Reviews Catfish Management Plan
ATHENS--Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s draft catfish
management plan is now available for public review and comment.
The document details the department’s overall plans for expanding and enhancing the state’s second-most popular fishery. It
may be viewed at:
http://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/nonpwdpubs/media/catfish_
plan_draft.pdf
“We invite the public to give us feedback on the goals outlined
in the plan,” said John Tibbs, a TPWD fisheries biologist who is
one of the plan’s authors. “Our vision is to improve catfishing for
all anglers in Texas, and we are open to ideas on how to best accomplish that.”
Tibbs said the plan was developed in response to changing
population demographics, findings of TPWD fisheries studies and
the needs of Texas’ catfish anglers. “Research shows that there is a
need for greater fishing opportunities in urban areas close to where
people live,” he said. “We are also seeing more anglers interested
in trophy catfishing, but at the same time many people want to
catch fish to eat or just for recreation. The new plan is designed to
meet all those needs.”
Interested persons may complete an on-line survey accessed
from a link embedded within the plan to express their opinions
on what they feel are the most important fisheries management
strategies in the plan. The draft plan will be available for public
comment until midnight July 26, 2015. The final plan is due to be
published in the fall of 2015.
Place your ad in the
Lake Fork Area News Today!
Call Shirley at
903-885-7223
or Email
[email protected]
Scott’s RV Service
Mobile Service
and Parts
Call Anytime • Repairs of all types
Scott Kennedy 903-638-1177
Ashley Gour 817-357-0259
Home office 903-383-2162
We have moved to the lake side of Yantis
and now accept visa/mc/disc/amxprss
July 2015
Nominations
Sought for Texas
Freshwater Fishing
Hall of Fame
Deadline for submission
is November 1
www.lakeforkareanews.com
received a rod & reel donated
by Cabela’s in Allen, TX. David Askins was in charge of the
fishing part of the event this
year and brought several types
of catfish baits. Stubby also donated several containers of his
catfish bait. During the sign in
and after the fishing portion,
the children were entertained
by “Mr. David” , David Payne,
a professional children’s entertainer from the Dallas area. Hot
dogs, chips, drinks, and cold
watermelon were served for
lunch and all the kids received
a special gift from the WCCC.
Thanks to all the volunteers and
people that make this event run
ATHENS, Texas — Individu- The WCCC held it’s second
als or organizations that have “Take a Kid Fishing” event
made a lasting contribution on June 13th, 2015 and had a
to freshwater fishing in Texas great day, good weather, and
may be nominated through No- lots of fun. This years event
vember 1 for induction into the was at Wind Point Park on
Lake Tawakoni. We had nearly
Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall
50% more kids this year over
of Fame.
last years event. All the kids
The nominee must be a
Texan or Texas organization.
Individuals may be either living or deceased. Selection will
be made by an independent
committee; induction will take
place during the annual Hall
of Fame banquet at the Texas
Freshwater Fisheries Center
(TFFC) in Athens.
The most recent additions
to the Hall of Fame are fishing
guide Mark Stevenson and the
Kids enjoying Mr. David the enteranier at the take a kid fishGuadalupe River Chapter of
ing event.
Trout Unlimited.
Videos about prior inductees may be viewed in the Texas
Freshwater Fishing Hall of
Fame at TFFC; some are also
available on YouTube. Brief
biographical sketches of past
Large selection
inductees and links to videos
of Desert Rose
dishes
and the nomination form may
be found at http://tpwd.texas.
gov/spdest/visitorcenters/tffc/
ORDER
visit/virtualtour/halloffame/inONLINE
ductees.phtml.
Home Decor, Antiques, Candles, Furniture, Kitchenware, Vintage Clothing...
Call Shirley to
place your ad
903-885-7223
or Email
lakeforkareanews@
yahoo.com
Homemade FUDGE
NOW!
Homemade FUDGE...great for all occasions!
You Order! We Ship!
EASY! EASY! EASY!
Watermelon Fudge is Here!
www.mineolafudge.com
903-569-0322
114 E. Broad St (Hwy. 80) Mineola • Mon.-Sat. 10-5
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
Page 11
like clockwork. Thanks also to
Ryan Fergus for hosting this
years event at Wind Point Park.
June 13th was also the
WCCC’s regular meeting date
and we had about 30 in attendance. The subject of this meeting was minnow fishing. While
the club spends a lot of time
talking about how to jig fish,
minnow fishing is an important
part of catching crappie. Several of the members weigh in
and shared some of their experiences on how they have had
success catching crappie lately.
The question was asked
on “crappie.com”, “What is
the true definition of a Slab?”
You’ll have to read all the answers, but it was apparent it depends on what part of the country you are from. Around here
we hold the term dearly and
post “Slab of the Week pictures
of any thing 15” or over. We
will also post your “Catch of
the Day” photos of any catch,
but would like your face to be
in the picture. Send your Slab
Pics to “[email protected]” and we will
post them.
July 11th will be the WCCC’s
3rd annual “Fishing Swap
Meet”. This years event will be
back at Pope’s Landing Marina
off Hwy 17. The events starts at
7:00 AM and will run till 2:00
PM. Anyone can come set up
a booth to sell or trade fishing,
boating, or camping items (no
guns). Vendors are welcome
and the public is invited and
it’s All Free ! The July meeting will also be on the 11th at
Pope’s Landing at 4:00 PM and
guest are welcome to attend.
There will be no meeting in
August because the WCCC is
taking a group tour of the Fresh
Water fishery in Athens on that
date.
Contact us at: “[email protected]” and
check out current events and
post at: “williamscreekcrappieclub.com”.
Old Country Store
Jams, Jellies, Salsa
Broke-in Boots
115 S. Johnson, Mineola, Texas
[email protected]
Lee W.James
(903) 944-0402
Page 12
www.lakeforkareanews.com
July 2015
CANEY POINT RV RESORT
Caney Point RV Resort is located on Hwy. 154
on the north side of the 154 bridge
S
LOT
U
R
TH
TE
PULL CONCRE IO.
WITH AND PAT E!
S
AS
PAD Y TO LE
D
REA
BEA
U
SHA T IFUL
TR
DED
LOT EE
S!
New Beautiful Waterfront Lots
covered with large trees NOW AVAILABLE!
•FISHING PIER
•PAVED ROADS
•SECURITY GATE
•FULL HOOK-UPS
•PRIVATE FACILITY
(NOT OPEN TO GENERAL PUBLIC)
•COVERED PAVILLION
•OVERSIZED BOAT RAMP
•10 YEAR OLD RESTRICTION
ON RVs COMING INTO RESORT
Waterfront lots have concrete
pads approximately 12’x60’
including concrete drive
and approximately
40’ to 45’ of
shoreline
For appointment to tour Caney Point RV Resort call
903-474-1946 • Office 903-383-3295
July 2015
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Controlling hog numbers
By Luke Clayton
Since our visit last week, I’ve
spent way more time at the
computer keyboard than I usually do. I’m well into chapter
ten of the book I’m writing on
hunting wild hogs with only
a couple more chapters to go!
My wife asked me how I could
find so much about wild hogs to
write about but then she remembered that hunting wild porkers
and writing about the excursions has filled a great deal of
my work weeks the past couple
of decades! Hunting hogs and
converting the “free” meat into
many tasty meals has not only
become a major part of my vocation, but a hobby that I thoroughly enjoy as well. They say
that you can’t get completely
away from your roots and I well
remember my dad raising six
or eight hogs each year and the
corn crop to fatten them. The
way I look at it, all these wild
hogs is simply free pork for
many of us and to my way of
thinking, it’s much tastier than
the pen fattened hogs we buy at
the super market.
I did sneak away this past
week with my nephew to join
a buddy who has had a bunch
of BBQ size pigs hitting a corn
feeder on his place. My nephew
harvested his first wild pork
using a 308 caliber big bore
air rifle and he was amazed, as
most are, at the power generated by compressed air. We left
my friends ranch with some of
the best eating wild pork imaginable in the cooler and some
needed pictures for my book.
My goal when I began planning this book was to delve into
little known facts pertaining to
wild hogs and wild hog hunting
and trapping. I knew writing the
chapters on the various methods
of hunting and tricks and tactics
that make one a more successful hunter would be easy for me
but in my quest for information,
I’ve found that there was a great
deal that I had to learn.
This past week, I spent a
good bit of time interviewing
one of the managers at a large
processing plant that processes
and sells wild game meats. I
learned that during the course
of a year, hundreds of pounds
Page 13
AKE
VIE
LAKE VIEW
LODGE
We offer:
• RV Lots (annual & overnight) • Motel Rooms
• Mobile Homes • Log Cabins
• Bunk Houses • Private Boat Ramp
Continued on page 14
Large Pavillion • 35 Picnic Tables •Seats 250
people •Complete Kitchen •Living Quarters
Perfect for Weddings, Family reunions,
Corporate retreats...
Trapping is the very best method of controlling hog numbers and
converting those wild hogs into great tasting pork. These wild
porkers were caught in a high tech trap activated via an app on a
cell phone. Photo courtesy Don Gresham www.goinfencing.com.
East Fork
Restaurant & Club
Cabins
2 beautiful
real log cabins
nestled in
large pine trees
$1000
Big Bass Bounty
4672 W. State Hwy 154 Yantis, Tx. 75497
Club 903-383-7007 • Restaurant 903-383-7008 • Tobacco Shop 903-383-7331
Restaurant Hours:
Sun.-Thurs. 11am-9pm
Fri. & Sat. 11am-10pm
Saturday Night Band Schedule
July 11 Richard Stuart
July 18 Darrin Morris
July 25 Chris Bevill
Resevations Available
Home of
Lockhart Lures
903-383-7663
www.lockhartlures.com
FRIDAY FAMILY
KARAOKE
8:30pm to midnight
FREE Country & Western
Dance Lessons
Thursday nights at 7pm
Club Hours:
Sun.-Fri. 11am-Midnight
Sat. 11am-1pm
Restaurant Specials
Daily Lunch Special
11am to 4pm
Lunch Buffet
11:30am to 2pm
Full Service Menu
Nightly Dinner Specials
DINE IN OR TAKE OUT
Specializing in Hand Cut Steaks, Custom Made Bass Baits and Fine Mexican Food
ForallthefolkscomingfortheLakeForkexperience,astopatEast Forkisamust.Greetedwitha
smile,youwillbeseatedforsomegreateats.MakesureyoustopinatLockhart Luresforyourbass
fishingneeds.Wecarrylotsofbaits,orwhileyoueathaveacustombaitbuilttoyourspecs.
So, before you leave, stop and check us out!
www.eastforkrestaurantandclub.com • Private club free membership available
January 1 -thru December 31 Lakeview Lodge will offer
a $1,000.00 bounty for the largest weighed Large mouth
bass!
RULES
1. You must be a registered guest at Lakeview Lodge or a
Lakeview Lodge RV tenant at the time of the catch.
2. Bass weighed in must be weighed in on Lakeview Lodge
certified scales in our office.
3. Fish must be caught on plastic lures, no live baits.
4. No fish 16 to 24 inches will be weighed.
5. No dead fish will be weighed.
6. Any fish weighed must be a Lake Fork bass caught on
Lake Fork.
7. Must submit to a lie detector test.
2980 FM 2946 Emory, Texas 75440
903-473-5110 • 800-473-5110
Page 14
www.lakeforkareanews.com
July 2015
Controlling hog numbers
Continued from page 13
of feral hogs are processed. The
market for “wild boar” has been
strong in Europe for years but
folks here in the United States
have learned the benefits of
eating free range pork as well.
During the past five years, there
has been a significant increase
in the amount of wild pork consumed in restaurants and private
kitchens throughout the US.
The animals are inspected by
the USDA at these wild game
processing plants, just like domestic meats but pork being
shipped to Europe must undergo
an additional test for trichinosis,
a disease that occurs in several
different mammals but is most
prevalent in swine and bears.
I was surprised to learn that of
the many thousands of hogs the
inspectors have checked at the
facility, not one tested positive
for trichinosis. Swine Brucellosis which is called Undulant
Fever when contracted by humans, was present a small percentage of the hogs. The wild
pork harvested by hog hunters
is obviously not tested for Brucellosis as is that in the USDA
inspected plants but the chance
of humans contracting any of
the diseases is eliminated by
through cooking (heating) of
the meat. The USDA newest
guidelines state that cuts of
pork such as roasts, steaks and
chops be heated to 145 degrees
and ground meat cooked to 160
degrees. I cook my pork, wild
or domestic to at least 180 degrees, often a bit higher with the
exception of smoked sausage or
salami which I bring up to 160
degrees. Wild pork is leaner
than the meat from domestic
hogs because wild hogs have to
move around and work to make
a living and I’ve found long and
slow cooking with moisture is
the best way to bring out the
natural flavors and, get the meat
fall off the bone tender.
There is much discussion
these days about controlling
nuisance hogs. Hunting alone
is not enough to keep the hog
numbers in check. To my way
of thinking, the very best means
of reducing feral hog numbers
is by trapping. Granted, these
so called helicopter hunts has
received a great deal of press
the past few years but it’s also
caused some problems, especially when the chopper pilots
fly across property lines onto
lands where they are not permitted to shoot and spook game.
Trapping hogs is a win-winwin situation for the trapper, the
local hog buyer and ultimately
the processing companies. The
consumer also wins by having
access to free range, natural
wild pork. The processing company that I visited has a great
business model in place that is
benefiting everyone from the
farmer that is overrun with hogs
to the housewife that chooses to
feed her family natural protein
in its most natural form.
Buying stations are set up
across many areas of the state
and local trappers bring their
hogs to these facilities where
each hog is weighed and sorted
according to size. Larger hogs
are currently bringing around
fifty cents per pound but smaller animals are well worth the
trapper’s time. On a regular
basis, the processer trucks the
hogs from the local hog buying
facility to their plant where the
animals are inspected, butchered and ultimately shipped to
the consumer.
It’s been said, “If you have
lemons, make lemonade”. Here
in Texas lemons are in pretty
short supply except down in the
Valley but hogs are everywhere!
I’m glad to see both hunters and
non hunters putting so much of
this excellent eating free range
pork to good use!
Listen to Outdoors with Luke
Clayton and Friends on radio
stations from Nebraska to Texas
on anytime online at www.cat-
Big Fish. Big Fun.
MOTEL • RV PARK
RESTAURANT
TACKLE STORE
e Fork
k
a
L
n
o
g
in
h
is
F
s
s
ble Staff
a
e
g
d
le
World Cla
w
o
n
K
ly
d
n
ie
Prices - Fr
t
a
e
r
G
n
o
ti
c
le
e
S
Huge Tackle
Waterfro
ks on the
a
te
S
t
s
e
B
r
a
B
d
nt Dining - Sala
Pavilion - Pier
Boat Ramp
Certified Scales
Boat Slips
Lake
(903) 878-2529 • 2919 W. State Hwy 154 • Quitman, TX • www.oakridgemarina.com
Lodge
- 14 Beds
Motel
- Doubles
- Queens
Satellite TV
Microwave
Mini-Fridge
Pets Accepted
July 2015
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Page 15
Wild Hog BBQ
Luke Clayton
In my previous column, we
discussed how wild hogs are
trapped and sold to processors
and then distributed to consumers not only in the United States
but much of Europe as well as
“wild boar”. I bet if you are a
regular reader of this column,
you might just have some “wild
boar” in your freezer. If not, you
These shoulders and hams
have been in the Smokin
Tex smoker for about twelve
hours and are about ready
to become pulled pork for a
“mega” meal! Photo by Luke
Clayton
will find that the larger shoulder
cuts at your local grocery store
are much more economical than
beef. If you live near one of the
larger Hispanic Food stores,
check out the meat department
there. Pork is big at these stores
and the price is right. Let’s consider having a big pork BBQ.
I’ve made pulled pork from 30
pound pigs as well as 200 pound
sows and the process is much
the same regardless the size of
the hog. The end result is fall
off the bone tender BBQ. You
don’t have to have an electric
smoker to make pulled pork but
trust me, once you have used
one, you will be hooked on how
easy it is to turn the cuts from
your wild hogs into tasty BBQ.
You’ve heard me bragging about
my Smokin Tex electric smoker
many times in this column. I
mean it, if there was one item
in my outdoor cooking arsenal
that I could not make it without, it’s my Smokin Tex. The
reason is simple: I just add four
to six ounces of wood to the
smoke box, put the meat in, set
the thermostat to the desired
temperature and walk away and
let the smoker do all the work.
I used to stay up half the night
with my wood fired smokers,
making sure the temperature remained constant but when I first
discovered the ease and simplicity of using the Smokin Tex, I
was hooked! To make the very
best pulled pork BBQ you’ve
even eaten, begin with a chunk
of wild pork (or domestic) . It
doesn’t matter if you are using
the front shoulder, the whole
ham or even backstrap, when
Continued on page 16
BAIRD
CONSTRUCTION
Steel Buildings
Commercial or Residential
Custom Homes
Place your ad
in the
903-878-2500 • Hwy. 154, Lake Fork
Motel • Lodge
RV Park • Restaurant
•Lakeside Pavilion-Perfect for
Tournaments and Outdoor Events
•Beautiful Lake View •Modern Store
•Full Tackle •Bait •Dump Station •Paved Parking
•Gas at the pump and on the water
•Big Fish Aquarium •Fish Cleaning Station •Boat
Launches •Generous Parking •Satellite TV •Wi-Fi
•Annual RV Sites •RV & Tent Camping
NOW OFFERING!
LAKE AREA MARINE
For all your trolling motor needs. Mobile service available.
LOCATED AT MINNOW BUCKET MARINA
ONLY Minn Kota ASC
903-393-9500 • [email protected]
Owner/Operator Nevelle May
NO ETHANOL GAS!
PROPANE FILLING STATION
Lake Fork Area News
Today!
Call Shirley at
903-885-7223
or
Email [email protected]
MARK BAIRD
General Contractor
Email: [email protected]
903-395-2577 • Mobile 903-491-7577
www.minnowbucketmarina.com
Page 16
www.lakeforkareanews.com
July 2015
BBQ
Continued from page 15
you pull it out of your Smokin
Tex, you won’t be able to distinguish the cut of meat, it will
all be tender and juicy. Use your
favorite rub, for several years;
I have used Obie-Cue’s Sweet
Rub BBQ Spice www.obiecue.
com. I used to make my own rub
using brown sugar, garlic powder, black powder and a little
red pepper but once I discovered
Obie-Cue’s I was hooked. Using
your hands, distribute the rub all
over the meat. Now, with about
6 ounces of wild plum, hickory
or pecan wood in the wood box,
I set my Smokin Tex at 225 degrees, place the pork in, shut
the door and let is smoke for a
couple of hours. Now, I remove
the meat and add my favorite
BBQ sauce (remember, you
want to smoke it long and slow
with MOISTURE, the BBQ
sauce and juices inside the meat
will supply the moisture. I will
either put the meat in a throw
away aluminum pan and cover it
with foil to keep the moisture in
or double wrap it in heavy duty
aluminum foil and place it back
into the smoker. Believe it or
not, two hours of heavy smoke
will give the finished produce a
great smoky flavor. I try to time
this so that it’s now about bedtime. I like to let the pork cook
all night while I am sleeping! I
reduce the thermostat to a setting of 190 to 200 degrees, shut
the door on my smoker and go
to bed! It’s that simple. The next
morning, I turn off my smoker and allow the meat to cool
enough to handle and then, if
it’s a ham or shoulder, I pick up
the bone and the meat falls right
off. We are talking about some
tender BBQ here, folks. I always
drain all the liquid, including the
remaining BBQ sauce from the
meat and then, using my hands,
break the chunks of pork into
pieces that will fit on a sandwich
or dinner plate. Next, I will add
more fresh BBQ sauce and taste.
I might sprinkle a little more
Obie-Cue’s on the meat if I think
it needs it or possibly a little salt
or pepper. Making good BBQ
pork is all about getting the seasonings right to suit your taste. If
you like it hot, you might wish to
add a little Louisiana hot sauce.
That’s it! You have just taken a
six or eight pound cut of meat
from your wild hog and transformed it into some of the best
tasting BBQ imaginable. Go to
your favorite BBQ restaurant
and purchase eight pounds of
pulled pork to go. You will have
to dig deeply into your wallet to
pay for it! Look at how much
money you just saved and you
did this yourself! Unless I’m
cooking for a bunch of people,
I will divide all that BBQ into
quart size quantities and freeze
them until needed. On many of
my outdoor hunting and fishing
trips, I will simply toss a couple
of quarts of frozen pulled pork
into the ice cooler and when it’s
time for supper, open a can of
beans and… Dinner is served!
Listen to Outdoors with Luke
Clayton and friends on radio stations from Nebraska to Texas on
weekends or anytime at www.
catfishradio.com
Nice bass caught with guide
Rick Carter.
903-850-7131
“Adding Beauty and Value to your Property”
Rick McKenzie
903-356-2300
Cell: 903-269-6173
[email protected]
WWW.MCKENZIELAKEWORKS.COM
DOCKS, LIFTS, DECKS, STEEL/METAL BLDG’S., METAL ROOFS,
RETAINING WALLS, BOAT HOUSES
FENCES: STEEL PIPE TO CHAIN LINK
DROP-OFF
and
PICK-UP
at
LAKE FORK
MARINA
Authorized Service
Ardent Reels
& Accessories
(made in the USA)
Joe Armold
Yantis, Texas
www.ets-systems.com/reelrepair
July 2015
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Page 17
Displaced wildlife show up as flood waters recede
Use Extreme Caution When Removing Debris
AUSTIN – Things that live on
the ground typically aren’t adept at treading water for long.
In the aftermath of flood events
that have hammered much of
the state recently, biologists
with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department say encounters
with various wildlife will not
be uncommon.
Recent storms also coincided with the time of year when
newborn wildlife start showing
up on the landscape. As flood
waters recede, wildlife officials
anticipate seeing more young
wild animals unnecessarily being picked up by the general
public and referred to game
wardens or wildlife rehabilitators for treatment and rearing.
According to the National
Weather Service, during the
month of May Texas received
35 trillion gallons of rain,
enough to cover the entire state
in eight inches of water.
“It is not uncommon for
wildlife encounters to increase
after flood events,” says Andy
Gluesenkamp, a herpetologist
with TPWD. “People should
be aware that snakes and other
wildlife, including skunks and
raccoons, may approach or enter yards and houses where they
do not normally occur. Over
time, displaced wildlife will re- and can even be detrimental to
Flooding will cause some will capitalize on the overall
the wildlife concerned.
turn to their usual habitats.”
immediate impacts to nesting improved health of the grassTips and precautions about efforts of grassland bird spe- lands..
Common sense precautions
The good news, say wildlife
should be practiced; be aware encounters with wildlife are cies such as bobwhite quail and
available
online
at
http://tpwd.
officials,
is that recent excesthat snakes and other animals
turkeys. But biologists indicate
may seek shelter in debris piles texas.gov/huntwild/wild/rehab/ those species will still have sive rainfall is being viewed as
and caution should be used dur- orphan/.
time to re-nest and the species Continued on page 18
ing cleanup efforts.
“A snake in the yard is not
a cause for panic,” he says.
“They don’t want to be there,
either, and if left alone will usuGolf
Utility
Vehicle Sales,
PartsVehicle
Rental &
Repair
GolfService,
Car & Utility
Sales,
Service, Parts Rental & Repair
ally leave
onCar
their&
own.
You’re
more likely to come upon a
Main Location
MainLocation
Location
Alba
Alba Location
skunk, a mound of fire ants or
2125
S.
FM
2869
2125
S.
FM
2869
113
CR
1534
113 CR 1534
3490 S. FM 2869
3490 S. FM 2869
a wasp nest in a Holly
brushpile
than
Lake Ranch,
TX 75765
HollyHawkins,
Lake Ranch,
TX 75765
Alba,
TX 75410
Alba, TX 75410
Hawkins,
TX 75765
TX 75765
a venomous snake. If (903)
you do
769-3600
(903)765-6030
769-3600
(903)
(903) 765-6030
have an encounter with
a probMon-Fri
9-5, Sat 9-1
Wed-Fri
10-5,
Sat
10-3
Wed-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-3
Mon-Fri 9-5, Sat 9-1
lem snake, seek help from local animal control or licensed
snake removal experts.”
The most commonly referred
animals are baby birds and deer
fawns. Recent flooding will
likely increase the temporary
displacement of these and other
wildlife. The compulsion to
help or investigate an animal
that looks abandoned. can be
.
overwhelming, but interfer- COMING SOON!
COMING SOON!
ence could harm its chances of
rejoining its caretaker. While
most of these animals are
picked up by well-meaning
persons, it is important to realize that
many such human-aniDON’T
SEND A BOY
TO DO
A MAN’S
JOB!
DON’T
SEND
A BOY
TO DO A MAN’S JOB!
mal encounters are unnecessary
NOW IN STOCK!
NOW IN STOCK!
Sales, Service, Parts, Rentals & Repair ● Golf
CarsService,
& UtilityParts,
Vehicles
Sales,
Rentals & Repair ● Golf Cars & Utility Vehicles
ClubCar, EZ-GO, Yamaha, HuntVe, Custom Golf
Cars EZ-GO, Yamaha, HuntVe, Custom Golf Cars
ClubCar,
Pick-Up & Delivery to Holly Lake Ranch, Lake
Fork, && the
Surrounding
Pick-Up
Delivery
to HollyArea
Lake Ranch, Lake Fork, & the Surrounding Area
Emory Self Storage
410 E. Lennon, Emory Tx. • Highway 69 South
903-474-9150 • 903-348-5459
GATED ENTRY
Gas & Electric • Service & Accessories
Gas & Electric • Service & Accessories
Complete Refurbish to Basic Maintenance Complete Refurbish to Basic Maintenance
Enclosures, Mirrors, Windshields, Lift Kits, Enclosures, Mirrors, Windshields, Lift Kits,
Wheels & Tires, Light Kits, Custom Paint, etc.
Wheels & Tires, Light Kits, Custom Paint, etc.
We stock Trojan & Continental Batteries We stock Trojan & Continental Batteries
(including deep cycle batteries for marine use)
(including deep cycle batteries for marine use)
10x10 Climate Control
10x10 & 10x20
Ins.Top
STEVE
AMEEN, Owner, Holly STEVE
Lake Golf
Car Ranch,
LLC
– US
Navy
Retired
AMEEN,
Owner,
Holly
Lake
Golf
Car Ranch, LLC – US Navy Retired
[email protected]
•
FAX
(903)
769-4810
[email protected]
• FAX (903) 769-4810
Also Available: ONLINE STORE OPEN 24HRS: www.hollylakegolfcarranch.com
ONLINE STORE OPEN 24HRS: www.hollylakegolfcarranch.com
5x10 • 8x15 • 10x12
Page 18
www.lakeforkareanews.com
July 2015
Displaced wildlife
Continued from page 17
a “drought buster” event that is going to be fantastic for the health of many ecosystems and habitattypes across Texas. For instance, the state’s bottomland hardwood forests will receive flood waters
deep across the alluvial plains that deposit rich nutrients for lots of native vegetation. Coastal estuaries will get a much-needed flush of fresh water, soil, and nutrients, which will help sport fisheries.
TPWD wildlife biologists remind private landowners across the state of federal farm program
benefits through the Texas Farm Service Agency that may be available to help eligible ranchers and
farmers recover from recent heavy rains and flooding. For more information on disaster assistance
programs and loans visit www.fsa.usda.gov/ or contact your local FSA Office. To find your local
FSA county office, visit http://offices.usda.gov.
David
Dalton and Stephen Horton with
some
nice
caught
with
Duke_Propane_Gas_Ad_Constr_2015_Duke
Propane
Gas
Ad bass
3/30/15
9:58 AM
Page 1
guide David Ozio.
Duke Propane Gas
(Under New Management!)
Your Full Service Propane Company
Gas Piping • Underground Tanks •
Residential & Commerical Installations
FREE LAWN & GARDEN
pickup & delivery for scheduled service in the Lake Fork Area!
• Trained & Certified
Still
family-owned
Propane Professionals an
d operated
since 1959!
• Free Safety Inspections & Tank Upgrades
For professional, friendly
propane service depend on
Duke Propane Gas!
(903) 763-5550
www.dukepropane.com
July 2015
www.lakeforkareanews.com
BAIRD
CONSTR UCTION
Steel Buildings
Commercial or Residential
om
Cust es
Hom
Page 19
LAKE FORK LAND
Interior Lots
Lakeviews
R.V. • MOBILE HOME • CABIN
Owner Financed
Gated Entry
Central Water • Sewer
BAR
N
S
T
BOA GE
RA
STO
MARK BAIRD
General Contractor
903-395-2577
Mobile 903-491-7577
HOLIDAY VILLAGES
Hwy 154
www.holidayvillages.com
903-878-7263
Page 20
www.lakeforkareanews.com
LAKE FORK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
July News
July 2015
The Lake Fork Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated
to improving the quality of life and economy of the Lake
Fork Area through community involvement.
Thursday, July 16th
1:00 pm Luncheon
SRA Headquarters
Reservation Required
All Of Us
Bass Champs
Bass Pro Shop
Big Mouth Burger
Brookshires
Circle E Western Wear
Circle H BBQ,
Crump Winery
Danny Holder Guide Svc.
Fix N Feed
Heaven’s Touch Massage
Hooten’s Hardware
Lake Fork Firearms
Lake Fork Marina
Lake Fork Trophy Lures
Latson’s Office Solutions
Lowes
Mineola Packing
Northshore Landing
Oak Ridge Marina
Potts Feed Stores
LFCC
(800)846-1859
PO Box 213
Alba, TX 75410
www.lakeforkchamber.org
July 2015
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Mission of the Lake Fork
Sportsman’s Association
• Promote sportsmanship and the protection
of natural resources
• Promote the quality of Lake Fork fishery
and other outdoor recreational activities
• Promote the future of angling through
youth programs
• Promote a spirit of cooperation with local,
By Dick Walker
county, state, and federal governmental agncies and
other civic organizations for the purpose of improving Lake Fork and its surrounding communities
• Promote items of interest of the membership at large
Tournament time is a busy time
for the LFSA and its live release boat.
The LFSA provides the Life
Release Boat to any tournament with 50 or more boats.
There is no charge for this
service. However, we do accept donations that are used
in the upkeep and maintenance of the LRB.
On June 5 and 6 the LRB supported the American Petroleum
Institute (API) tournament.
The 2015
Catfish
Classic
on
Lake
Fork is in
the books.
To u r n a ment partners Lake Fork
Sportsman’s Association and
Lake Fork Chamber of Commerce call the event a major
success. Participating anglers
were up over last year and just
exciting more families participated. This was the second
year for kids 12 and under to
fish free when fishing with a
paid adult. It paid off with a
number of young anglers winning big money.
New Greenhouse For Yantis ISD
For the past several years we have been updating you on a project
between TPWD, LFSA and the Yantis ISD. This project focuses on
habitat restoration in Lake Fork.
For the past several years the LFSA has purchased 500 button
bushes and the Yantis High School FFA has planted and grown these
bushes for transplanting into Lake Fork.
The program has proven successful in replacing vegetation lost
during the time the lake was low due to the drought.
Recognizing the value of the program, TPWD is donating a new
20’X48’ greenhouse to Yantis ISD. This new greenhouse will insure
the continued success of
the program. Dan Bennett and Kevin Storey
delivered the good news
to Interim Superintendent Dr. Peter Running
and FFA adviser Tonya
Rabinaldt.
Yantis ISD Greenhouse coming in the Fall.
Pictured L/R Dick Walker LFSA, Dan Bennett, TPWD, Sue Parrish LFSA, Carol Boykin LFSA, Tonya Rabinaldt FAA Adviser,
LaDale York LFSA, Dr. Peter Running Yantis ISD and Kevin
Storey TPWD.
Page 21
Tournament Time 7th Annual Lake
Fork Catfish Classic
On Lake Fork
LFSA Announces 2015 Scholarship Winners
For the first time the LFSA will award two full scholarships in 2015.
One of this year’s winners is Caralyn Dawson, Alba Golden High
School.
Caralyn will be attending the University
of North Texas where
she plans to major in
Biology. Her goal is to
complete all requirements for a PhD in Biology choosing a career as
a Wildlife Biologist with
a focus on zoo breeding Ron Bowden, Scholarship Chairman
programs and conserva- presents Caralyn and her Mom with her
Check.
tion.
LFSA member Harold Williams receiving fish from API
runner.
Game
Warden
Derrick
Spitzer checking to be sure a
slot fish is not weighed during
API.
On June 13 and 14 the LRB
supported the Skeeter Owners
Tournament where we handled
24 over the slot bass. The tournament drew a record number
of anglers from all over the
country.
Peaches Miller was the winner of the $250 Early Entry
drawing. Peaches and her
family entered the tournament on June 12.
Friday June 19 was set-up and
registration day. This year we
had help from Legend Boats
and Don Hampton who provided their stage for our event.
LFSA members get the Oak
Ridge pavilion ready for registration.
Anglers filling out entry
forms during Friday registration.
The LFSA would like to
thank our underwriters and
sponsors without your support we could not hold this
tournament.
A special thank you goes
to Legend Boats and Don
Hampton who provided their
stage and scales.
Our membership is
open and available
to any and all who
share our deep commitment to do whatever is necessary to
preserve the legend
that is uniquely Lake
Fork. For more information about the
LFSA you can go to
our website www.
lakeforksa.com
Page 22
www.lakeforkareanews.com
July 2015
Stan Kuhn’s
Catfish report
Summertime is upon us and
that means it’s hot in Texas.
July usually means 100-degree
weather. As I’m writing this article it’s raining again as Tropical Storm Bill is bringing more
rain to east Texas and Lake
Fork.
The catfishing has been fantastic, as the warm weather has
moved the catfish into deep water. I’m fishing in 38ft and 32ft
on baited out spots. Most of the
catfish we are catching have
been suspended up off the bottom. Watch your graph and that
will tell you where most of the
catfish are hanging out.
The new bait I’m using is
really working well as it really
hangs on the hook good. J Pigg
Stinkbait out of Stephenville is
some of the best bait that I have
used. If you miss the fish on the
first bite just leave it down and
he will give you a second and
third chance to catch him.
Summertime is easy to catch
numbers of channel cats on
Lake Fork and you can fill up
the ice chest with good eating
size catfish.
Until next month, be safe
on the water and always Fish
Friendly.
Anita Wesley and family caught 73 cats with guide
Stan Kuhn.
Buster and Carter Taylor
caught 52 cat.
Cooper Weaver holding one
of 51 cats caught with guide
Stan Kuhn.
Avery Wise caught this nice
cat on J Pigg Stinkbait.
Kirk Tidwell and son Troy, Jeff
Larson, and Tyler Lowe. 48 cats.
Lauren Anderson caught
this nice cat with guide Stan
Kuhn.
Randy and Jodi York from San
Marcus, Tx holding two of 73
cats.
Randy Bunch and grandkids
Kathryn, Avery and Ryan.
Reba Narramore from Yantis
caught this nice cat.
Joel Starkey and dad Howard Starkey caught a limit of
50 cats with guide Stan Kuhn.
Leta Bunch and grandkids
Ryan and Kathryn Holliday.
Billy Wayne Taylor holding
two of 32 cats caught with
guide Stan Kuhn.
Emory Self Storage
410 E. Lennon, Emory Tx. • Highway 69 South
903-474-9150 • 903-348-5459
Kelly and Tammy Mixon
caught 89 cats on two trips
with guide Stan Kuhn.
Loreno Diaz caught this nice
cat on J Pigg Stinkbait.
Reba Narramore, mother,
Genell 85-years-young, and sister Lynette Peterson showing
one of 50 cats caught.
GATED ENTRY
10x10 Climate Control
10x10 & 10x20 Ins.Top
Also Available:
5x10 • 8x15 • 10x12
Kenneth Crenshaw holding
two of 44 cats caught on J Pigg
Stinkbait.
Oliver Despain holding two
nice cats caught on J Pigg
Stinkbait.
Tammy Mixon caught this
nice catt on J Pigg Stinkbait.
July 2015
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Page 23
Does Advertising Work?
Just Did!
Call Shirley Today!
903-885-7223
Email:
[email protected]
www.lakeforkareanews.com
Like Us On Facebook
Page 24
www.lakeforkareanews.com
July 2015
J.R. SIMPSON
903-850-3324
EMAIL: [email protected]
Office: 800-254-7541 - Fax: 903-763-4487
www.c21lakecountryrealty.com
Yantis $875,000
UNIQUE ONE-OF-A-KIND Custom
Lake Fork Home! Professionally
designed and decorated. Efficient
cooling & heating with 21’ ceilings,
Italian tile, bamboo wood flooring
& granite counters. 2 stall boat
house w/2 electric lifts. Insecticide
System covering entire home,
garage, patio and boathouse.
Furnishings are negotiable. View
Virtual
To u r
link
www.lakeforkwaterfront.net
Yantis $179,900
A RARE WATERFRONT FIND
on Lake Fork! Built in 2008, this 4
bedroom, 2.5 bath home sits high
on a hill with a awesome view of
Lake Fork! This home is in like new
condition with a detached over
sized garage, fishing pier, privacy
fence & lighted flag pole. Sitting on
the banks of Birch Creek, one of
the best fishing areas on Lake
Fork. Move in ready in every way!
REDUCED
Quitman $114,900
WALKING DISTANCE TO
SCHOOL Deep well to water the
yard to beat those high city water
bills, city water & sewer to house.
Gorgeous hardwood floors,
ceramic tile in kitchen, bathrooms
& utility. Large backyard with
privacy fence,12x12 storage
building & covered patio. Garage
for a Big Bass Boat & workshop
area.
Yantis $82,500
BRING ALL WRITTEN OFFERS!
3 bedroom, 2 bath with attached
2 car garage home sits on 1.183
partially wooded acres for privacy.
Home has an enclosed Bonus
Room that is 32’ across the back
of the home and has wood flooring
with a wood burning stove. Home
is neat, clean and very close to
World Famous Lake Fork with
community ramp across the street.
REDUCED
Yantis $42,900
Emory 235,000
NO ZONING CODES OR
RESTRICTIONS AND all city
utilities!!This 1 bedroom 1 bath is the
perfect fisherman’s hide-away or
would be a great place to downsize
& retire. Walking distance to town,
schools and quick access to Sulphur
Springs & I-30 and 5 minutes or less
from boat ramp to World Famous
Lake Fork.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY ON
HWY 515 between Emory and Lake
Fork. This 4,400 sqft shop building
has all the electric you need for shop
equipment.There is 672 sqft of office
space with kitchen area. Gravel
parking lot on 4.8 Acres. Possible
owners financing with approved
credit & 20% down.
Yantis $599,000
Point $147,900
HIGH QUALITY, CUSTOM
BUILT builders personal
waterfront home on Lake Fork has
all the amenities you could ask
for. From Foam insulation to
Travertine tile, Granite Counters
& Knotty Alder Cabinets. In-ground
pool with hot tub & waterfall plus
a bonus room upstairs with an
office. Home is on 2 lots with 1.3
acres plus leaseback, plenty of
room for a pier and a boat house.
BUYER PICKS NEW GRANITE
$1,500 allowance for kitchen
counter tops, buyer’s pick! Custom
built home features brick, hardy
board & metal roof. Rectified
Porcelain Tile with inlay design in
living room, carpet in master
bedroom, wood flooring in other
bedrooms, office, walk-in master
shower w/copper colored tile
design & a partially covered deck.
Yantis $575,000
Quitman $89,500
BEAUTIFUL WATERFRONT
property on Lake Fork with pier,
boat house and has a concrete
driveway to the lake. This two
bedroom, 1.5 bath home sits on
over half an acre and has a 12x37
screened-in back porch & 12x22
porch with storage space
underneath, detached 2 car garage
& 8x10 storage bldg. Home has
metal roof, storm windows & ceiling
fans.
BRING YOUR BEST OFFER! This
2 bedroom, 1 bath home has a
8x24 covered front porch. There is
a 25x25 shop building, 15x22
storage building, 15x22 carport &
a greenhouse. Interior has been
completely updated & home sits on
1.5 acres for plenty of privacy, off
the beaten path. Home is located
walking distance to all city services
in Quitman & has city utilities.
Alba $59,900
WALKING DISTANCE TO LAKE
FORK! This 2 bedroom, 2 bath
manufatured home is on a .58 acre
lot with community boat ramp to
Lake Fork. New flooring, new AC &
new septic. There is a 10x12
workshop, 10x12 storage building
& 23x25 garage. Covered front porch
& chain link fenced back yard. Plenty
of room for your bass boat and the
rest of your toys too!
Yantis $59.900
4 ACRES IN YANTIS on Hwy
154. Property is partially fenced
and has all city utilities and
sewer. There are two workshop
buildings in front plus a barn
and a corral in the back of the
property with an open pasture
area. Just minutes from Lake
Fork public boat ramp. This
proper ty would give great
highway exposure to any
business.
Yantis $144,500
LOCATED NEAR LAKE TAWAKONI
East Tawakoni $119,000
with Rains County schools. Totally
updated brick home with 3-4 bedroom
or office with 2 bath and two living,
fresh paint, triple paned windows,
radiant barrier and a wood burning
stove.This would be a great first time
buyers home.
Yantis $399,000
HOME IN GREAT LOCATION
This three bedroom home with
attached carport and fenced back
yard is in downtown Yantis. Let your
kids walk to schools just across the
street and with Lake Fork boat ramp
just five minutes away you are close
to your weekend fishing getaway.
CALL TODAY FOR MORE
INFORMATION.
A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY!
Lake Fork area Complete
Restaurant & Sports Bar with
everything you need. Pool tables,
shuffle board, dishes, silverware,
refrigerators, fryers, tables, chairs
and a great dance floor with
stage, plus a full inventory. Full
security system and video
surveillance & POS system in
place. Great location in high traffic
area near Lake Fork. Bring offer!
Hawkins $199,000
LOCATED IN HOLLY LAKE RANCH
AREA This 4 unit property is in a high
traffic area, any business will get serious
highway exposure. Property has great
income potential. One unit is currently
rented, 3 others are available. No
restrictions or zoning.
MOTIVATED SELLER with reasonable
offers!
REDUCED
Yantis $62,500
RARE 50 ACRE TRACT OF LAND
WATERFRONT PARK MODEL RV AT LAKE FORK
Property sits outside Quitman city limits & features some of the Immaculate condition with an attached covered deck $20,000
best views anywhere in Wood County. Property has been planted
with rye grass, fescue, millet & other mixtures. Underbrush has
been cleared, no trash piles or dump sites. Tons of deer! Super LAKE FORK WATER FRONT & OFF-WATER LOTS
clean property with dogwood, wild plum, persimmon, huge post
FROM $17,900 TO $135,000
oaks, red oaks, black walnut, pines, tickle tongue & cedar trees.
LAKE FORK AREA ACREAGE FROM
This is one of those properties you have to see to believe!
$36,000 TO $219,000
QUITMAN $209,900
CUSTOM BUILT ON LAKE
FORK Pier, 2 stall boathouse &
concrete path from house to lake
& a sea wall. Located on edge of
creek channel with deeper water
than most homes in area. Gas
log fireplace, crown molding,
office, formal dining, dry bar,
granite counters. Jacuzzi tub,
ceramic tile & hardwood floors.
Covered porch overlooking lake
& a 3 car garage.
90X40 OFFICE BUILDING with
nice entry. Kitchen/break room
with 3 offices and large work area.
Overhead door at rear and door
at side. Two updated HVAC units,
commercial phone system in
place. Plenty of parking plus a full
acre of land to expand if needed.
Winnsboro $109,000
A GREAT FIND ON LAKE FORK
Established RV park with a long waiting list for RV lots. There are
currently 39 lots & 13-16 acres of leaseback to expand the RV
park, 4 septic systems with room for 30 additional RV sites on
the current septic systems. Property includes a water well for RV
park with a 35 gpm pump. 2011 manufactured home, a deep
water boat ramp & a sass frass log guest house that is not yet
completed inside. This is a rare opportunity and a rare find on
Lake Fork.
YANTIS $549,900
P