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Maryland DNR Fishing Report, October 26

 Recent chilly temperatures are causing anglers to replace their sneakers and T-shirts with rubber footwear and flannel shirts. Cooler water temperatures have fish in a very active feeding mode, which makes for great fishing.

Forecast Summary: October 25 – October 31:

The upcoming week should provide cooling temperatures as the week progresses with low winds. Bay surface water temperatures continue their decline down to the low 60s. Salinity is average and there are suitable oxygen conditions down to the bottom in all areas of Maryland’s portion of the Bay.

Expect average flows in Maryland rivers and streams all week. There will be above average tidal currents all week as a result of the upcoming full moon on October 28. Expect average water clarity for most of Maryland’s Bay, rivers, and streams. To see the latest water clarity conditions, check Eyes on the Bay Satellite Maps.

As always, the best fishing areas could be further refined by intersecting them with underwater points, hard bottom, drop-offs, and large schools of baitfish.

For more detailed and up-to-date fishing conditions in your area of the Bay, be sure to check out Eyes on the Bay’s Click Before You Cast.

Upper Chesapeake Bay

Anglers are enjoying good fishing action for a mix of striped and smallmouth bass in the boulder-strewn sections of the lower Susquehanna River below the Conowingo Dam pool. It is a strange mix, and it would be difficult to find another fishing location that would provide opportunities for both species. Most anglers are casting soft plastic swimbaits and jigs as well as twitchbaits, jerkbaits, and crankbaits in the deep-water pockets, submerged ledges, and channel edges. 

Fishing for blue catfish could only be better if they jumped into your boat. Anglers are using cut bait for the best results. A variety of fish can be used, but menhaden and gizzard shad top the list because their oil content releases a scent line for catfish to home in on. White perch and cut-up eel work well; many anglers use bluegill sunfish, chicken liver and scented baits. In many regards they are a meat-eating angler’s dream because there is no minimum size or daily creel limit. Cleaned and cooked properly, blue catfish can change the minds of most fish snobs. Check out our Angler’s Log to see some suggested ways to clean catfish

Now that water temperatures in the tidal rivers are 60 degrees or lower, and the upper Bay water temperatures are in the low 60s, striped bass are free to roam wherever they have a notion to go. Their food supply of peanut menhaden is flowing out of the tidal rivers, so staging along steep channel edges at the mouths of the larger rivers is a given tactic. 

There is still plenty of good striped bass fishing at the mouth of the Patapsco River and the Key Bridge, but other locations are coming into their own as good places to fish this week. The Love Point rocks provide a good location to jig, as is the mouth of the Chester River. Baltimore Light is always worth checking out if you’re nearby. 

Trolling is a very popular way to fish for striped bass during the fall; pulling umbrella rigs behind heavy inline weights is the most common way they’re deployed. Most striped bass are holding in deep water along channel edges, so it takes some weight to get down to them. Stout tackle and braided line are needed unless one is trolling single bucktails or Drone spoons, which can be pulled behind a planer. Umbrella rigs can be rigged with hookless sassy shads or spoons and trailers can be bucktails dressed with a sassy shad or twistertail, a Storm Shad type lure, or a Drone spoon. A few popular channel edges to check are the Triple Buoys area, Love Point, Swan Point, the Dumping Grounds, Podickory Point, and the channels leading out of the region’s tidal rivers.

Fishing for white perch remains excellent this week in the region’s tidal rivers and creeks. Water temperatures have dipped below the 60-degree mark in many areas so the white perch will be moving to deeper waters soon. Casting Beetle-Spins along shoreline structure is an excellent way to fish for them now. Shoreline rocks, marina docks, bridge piers, and bulkheaded shores are just a few types of structure they prefer when looking for grass shrimp or small minnows.

For more information Maryland DNR Fishing Report, October 26 – The BayNet

Garrett County woman hunts record 643 pound black bear

 Black bear hunting is underway in Maryland.

The 20th annual season began Monday with a record breaker.

Melissa, of Garrett County, shot a 643 pound male bear, which is the largest on record in the state’s history.

A hunter named Justus from Frederick County snagged the first bear this year, a 197 pounder.

In total 24 bears were killed during the first day — 19 of which were reported in Garrett County.

Allegany and Frederick Counties each had two, with one in Washington County.

The season lasts six days, ending October 28.

Last year 103 bears were killed, the heaviest weighing in at 427 pounds.

Edisel Delano “Ed” King

King, Edisel With great sadness, we announce the passing of Edisel Delano “Ed” King, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, dear friend and community member. For decades, Ed’s name has been synonymous with Deep Creek Lake. He had a deep love for the lake and everything surrounding it and recently said, “I have never had a bad day at Deep Creek Lake.” Ed peacefully departed this world on Monday, September 11, 2023, at the age of 90, in the comfort of his Deep Creek Lake home, where he has been a full-time resident for 39 years. Born on August 4, 1933, in Hopwood, Pa., Ed was the son of the late Frank A. and Ada (Rankin) King. He grew up in a tight-knit family and from an early age developed a strong work ethic. Ed’s dedication to education led him to earn bachelor’s degrees from both West Virginia University and Carnegie Mellon University. Ed’s adventurous spirit led him to honorably serve his country as part of the United States Air Force. Stationed at a NATO base in France, he contributed to the defense efforts during a critical period. Following his military service, Ed pursued a successful career as a structural engineer at the American Bridge Division of U.S. Steel in Pittsburgh. Throughout his 28-year tenure, he played a significant role in notable projects across the country, including the iconic PanAm building in New York City, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and the magnificent New River Gorge Bridge. In 1984, Ed made the life-changing decision to become a full-time resident of Deep Creek Lake, Md. His passion and love for the area led him to embark on a new journey as a Realtor®, working diligently at Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. (formerly A&A Realty). Ed’s knowledge and commitment to the real estate industry earned him respect from his colleagues and clients alike. However, Ed’s legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments. He had an unwavering dedication to his beloved community, serving as a 50-year active member and former multi-term president of the Property Owner’s Association of Deep Creek Lake and the Deep Creek Lions Club, where he was a member since 1986 and past president As a Lion, he was inducted as a Melvin Jones Fellow, which is the highest award in Lionism and recognizes superlative levels of service to others. Countless people have referred to him as “a legend” around the Deep Creek Lake community. Inspired by his love for the lake, Ed chose to share his wealth of knowledge by authoring several books, including “Famous Boats of Deep Creek Lake,” “Deep Creek Lake The Founders,” and “I Love Deep Creek Lake.” He was diligently working to complete his final book titled “Deep Creek Lake The Founders Book 2”, which will be published posthumously. He poured his all into these works as he preserved the memories and history of the lake for future generations to cherish. Ed’s kind and compassionate nature endeared him to all who knew him. He loved trips and visits with his friends and neighbors, all whom he loved dearly. He was known for his generosity, his love of life and his unmistakable “rooster crow,” bugle reveille and taps. He touched countless lives through his involvement with various charitable organizations, such as Hospice of Garrett County and the Garrett County Regional Medical Center Foundation. For years, he was a fixture at Hospice’s Jail and Bail booth at the county fair. Additionally, Ed dedicated his time and expertise to work with state and local governments on important matters of planning, zoning regulations and lake management. Ed’s memory will be forever cherished by his beloved wife, Lorena “Jean” King, who stood by his side throughout their journey together. He is also survived by his children, Jeffrey King of Kaneohe, Hawaii, Michelle King of Butler, Pa., and Bruce King and his wife Angela of Walnut Cove, N.C. Ed leaves behind several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will always remember him as a loving and devoted patriarch. Additionally, numerous nieces and nephews will remember him fondly. In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by his brother, J Darwin King, and his sister, Gloria (King) Breakiron. A memorial service to celebrate the remarkable life of Edisel Delano King, a man who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him, will be held at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Oakland at 11 AM on Saturday, October 28, 2023, with Pastor Tom Omholt officiating. Friends, family and community members will be received for one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Deep Creek Watershed Foundation, P.O. Box 376, Oakland, MD 21550 or the donor’s favorite charity. May his kind soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory forever illuminate our lives. The C & S Fredlock Funeral Home, P.A., Oakland, Maryland is honored to be assisting with Ed’s arrangements

Maryland black bear activity increases throughout fall

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds residents that black bears are beginning a period of increased feeding activity in preparation for winter hibernation. As the leaves change and the weather cools, bears become more active as they search for food.

During this time, bears will travel across roads more frequently. They also can become more attracted to human-provided food sources and lose their natural fear of people, which can be dangerous for both people and bears.

Residents and visitors should note that keeping bird feeders, pet food and trash in a place where bears can’t get to them is the best way to avoid problems. Marylanders should also delay filling songbird feeders until the winter months to avoid attracting bears.

for more information Maryland black bear activity increases throughout fall | Garrett News | wvnews.com

Fall Foliage October 12th

Western Maryland

Melissa Nash, Forester in Garrett and Allegany counties, reports, “I think we are still on track to peak at the end of this week, but I don’t think it’s going to result in dramatic color this year. We are still seeing more yellow and gold tones as opposed to vibrant oranges and reds. I do anticipate the cool temperatures (lows in the 30s/40s) will help transition some of the trees that are still green.”

Orange and leaves in Eastern Garrett County

A burst of amber fills the sky in Eastern Garrett County’s Finzel area. Photo by Melissa Nash.

Yellow, brown, and orange leaves in Garrett County

Recent wind and rain results in a carpet of fall leaves on the forest floor in eastern Garrett County. Photo by Melissa Nash.

Sean Nolan, Forest Manager, at Savage River State Forest sees progress among the leaves in Northern Garrett County. “We’ve seen quite a change this week,” Nolan said. “The higher elevation areas are nearing peak, but recent rain and wind have brought many leaves down.  The sugar and red maples are showing good colors, but the oaks are still very green.”  

Orange and gold leaves in Savage River State Forest

Gorgeous shades of orange and gold line the Bowman Hill and Keyser’s Ridge areas of Savage River State Forest. Photo by Wyatt Orner, Natural Resources Technician.

“The recent cold temperatures along with the rainy and windy conditions have coaxed a substantial number of leaves from the canopy, especially among red maples and sugar maples, with some trees already devoid of foliage. The black birch, sassafras, and black gum are displaying a wide spectrum of colors on Piney Mountain,” reports Scott Campbell, Forest Manager at Potomac-Garrett State Forest.

The fall transition is moving a little more slowly in Frederick where Bob Study, Park Ranger Supervisor, is seeing “mostly green with hints of gold and crimson just starting to peek through the treetops” at Fort Frederick State Park.

for full report Fall Foliage Report – October 12, 2023 (maryland.gov)

County Commissioners Announce Public Meeting Agenda

PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA
Tuesday, October 17, 2023
Agenda Session Times are Approximate


Meeting will also be Live Streamed at https://www.facebook.com/garrettcountygovernment/
Agenda Session Times are Approximate

The Board of County Commissioners may close a portion of this public meeting and move into Executive Session to comply with a specific constitutional, statutory, or judicial requirement that may prevent public disclosure about a particular proceeding or matter.

*To comment on agenda items – please send to comments@garrettcounty.org

3:00        Administrative Session

  •  Mr. Null will review a number of administrative and managerial matters under his authority and jurisdiction with the Board of County Commissioners

4:00       Call to Order of Public Session, Invocation, and Pledge of Allegiance

               County Administrator – Additions/Deletions to Public Meeting Agenda

               Approval of Public, Administrative, and Executive Meeting Minutes

4:10        Proclamation:  Economic Development Week – October 23 – 27, 2023

4:15        Garrett County Department of Financial Services – Purchasing Division

  • Bid #23–0928 – Garrett County Airport Terminal Roof Project

4:20       Public Commentary

4:25       PUBLIC HEARING:  HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Hearing – Pathways
                                               to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) Opportunity

ADJOURNMENT

Public issues or concerns that are to be presented to the Board of Garrett County Commissioners during any Public Meeting should be scheduled with Carol A. Riley–Alexander, Executive Assistant to the Board of County Commissioners/County Administrator.     

The Board of Garrett County Commissioners next scheduled Public Meeting will be Tuesday, November 6, 2023 at the Garrett County Courthouse beginning at 4:00 PM.

Doug McClive

 Douglas “Doug” McClive passed in peace surrounded by his family on Oct.19, 2023 in Windsor, Calif.

Born on Jan. 8, 1950 in Buffalo, N.Y., Doug took the “quality of life” plunge back in 1974 and moved full time to Garrett County to assume the position as chef at the Four Season’s Restaurant, Will O the Wisp and later at Silver Tree Restaurant.

With 34 years in the restaurant business, Doug, Rebecca McClive, and business partner Debra Savage established McClive’s Restaurant on Deep Creek Drive in 1987. Doug and his family operated the locally celebrated restaurant until 2001.

Doug carried his love of Deep Creek Lake and all of Garrett County forward (2002-2023), along with his professional partner Ed King, to Long & Foster Real Estate, now Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations & Sales. He was an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) and member of MAR & NAR and was a six-year officer of the Garrett County Board of Realtors. His resort property niche and professional resources placed him among Deep Creek’s top producers every year.

Elected 2009 and 2014 REALTOR® of the Year by the Garrett County Board of REALTORS, he was named Top Producer, and a Long & Foster Gold Team member.

He was active in many local charities, including Deep Creek Lions Club, providing leadership as Membership Chair in 2013-2014 and participating in frequent fundraising events such as Casino Night and the Blind Skiing program at Wisp Resort, offering his world famous “Dougy Dog’s” barbecue at the Soap Box Derby.

MLGC presents ‘Garrett County’s Black Bears’

Date: October 17, 20XX

Location: Dutch’s on Glendale Road, Deep Creek Lake

The Mountain Laurel Garden Club invites you to join us for an exciting and educational morning as we delve into the world of Garrett County’s black bears. On Tuesday, October 17, 20XX, at 10 a.m., we will gather at Dutch’s, located on Glendale Road, Deep Creek Lake, to explore these magnificent creatures in the company of guest speaker Jonathan Trudeau, Black Bear and Co-Deer project leader with the Maryland Wildlife and Heritage Service.

Garrett County’s Black Bears: A Fascinating Insight

Maryland is home to a robust population of black bears, a treasure shared with the Mid-Atlantic region. While these incredible animals are occasionally spotted throughout the state, they predominantly inhabit the four western counties: Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington. Our guest speaker, Jonathan Trudeau, will take us on a journey into the lives of Garrett County’s black bears.

What to Expect

During this informative presentation, Trudeau will share insights into various aspects of these fascinating creatures.

Living in Harmony with Black Bears

As human and bear populations continue to coexist in closer proximity, it becomes increasingly crucial to foster peaceful cohabitation. Jonathan Trudeau, drawing from his expertise, will provide valuable tips on how we can ensure that both humans and bears thrive harmoniously. You might be surprised to learn just how manageable this coexistence can be.

About the Speaker

Jonathan Trudeau took up his current position as Black Bear and Co-Deer project leader in 2022. He holds a master’s degree in biology, earned in 2017 from Ball State University. Currently, he is enrolled as a doctoral student at Michigan State University, where he is in the final year of study, specializing in the Boone and Crockett Quantitative Wildlife Center. He resides in Garrett County with his wife and two daughters.

Event Details and Reservations

To attend this captivating presentation and enjoy a delicious luncheon at Dutch’s, the cost is $20 per person. Reservations and payments must be made by 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 12, 20XX. You can easily reserve your spot via the club’s website at mountainlaurelgardenclub.com under the “Program & Events” tab.

Additionally, if you are interested in becoming a member of the Mountain Laurel Garden Club, you can find all the necessary information on the website.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about the magnificent black bears of Garrett County and discover how we can peacefully coexist with these remarkable creatures. Join us on October 17th for a morning of education, conversation, and connection with nature.

Deep Creek Lake Lions Club seeks boat donations

Summer may have come to an end, but that doesn’t mean you have to stow away your boat, personal watercraft, or snowmobiles just yet. In fact, there’s a fantastic opportunity to make the most out of your watercraft and help your local community at the same time. The Deep Creek Lake Lions Club, known for its annual boat auction, is on the lookout for generous donations from the public for their next auction scheduled for June 8, 2024.

Why Donate to the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club Boat Auction?

You might be wondering why you should consider donating your boat, personal watercraft, or even boating accessories to this cause. Chris Nichols, the club’s treasurer, provides some excellent reasons: “This is a great way for local or vacation home boat owners to help the local community while gaining a potential tax write-off and saving on storage fees over the winter.”

It’s a win-win situation. You get to support your community, potentially reduce your tax liability, and free up valuable storage space during the colder months.

What Can You Donate?

Club President Mike O’Brien emphasizes that they are open to almost any kind of boat or personal watercraft. “We accept almost any boat or personal watercraft, as we know from past experience there is a great demand in the area for ‘slightly’ and even more-than-slightly-used boats, as we prove every year at our auction.”

And it’s not just about boats. They welcome donations of snowmobiles and any type of boating accessory you might have lying around. Your contribution can make a significant difference in their fundraising efforts.

Where Does the Money Go?

The Deep Creek Lake Lions Club is dedicated to serving the Garrett County area through various community initiatives, such as the annual Blind Skiers and Blind Campers programs. Additionally, they offer financial assistance for vision-related healthcare, eyeglass recycling, and support local and global organizations. They also manage the McHenry Community Park at 1249 Bumble Bee Road, providing a space for the community to come together and enjoy.

How to Get Involved

If you’re interested in donating a boat or boating accessories, you can get in touch with the club at DCLLIONS@gmail.com or call them at 323-325-5466. Your donation can make a significant impact on their community programs.

If you’d like to go a step further and become a member of the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club or participate in their community service initiatives, you can find more information on their website at https://deepcreeklions.org/ or contact Mike Tumbarello, the director of the marketing committee, at 410-707-7725 or tumbarellomike@gmail.com.

Donating your boat, personal watercraft, or boating accessories to the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club’s annual boat auction is a meaningful way to give back to your community, save on storage costs, and potentially benefit from a tax deduction. Join hands with this dedicated group and make a positive impact on Garrett County and its residents.

7 Small Towns In Maryland That Come Alive In The Fall- World Atlas

Oakland

Vibrant autumn photo taken in Swallow Falls state park in western maryland

As a small town with an idyllic setting, Oakland is tucked between mountains in Southern Garrett County near the Deep Creek Lake. There are many reasons to believe this town is the perfect fall destination in Maryland; from scenic mountain parks and wildlife adapting to fall leaves, like the Swallow Falls State Park and Bradford Park, to a vibrant art scene in the Oakland arts & entertainment district. Engage in park activities at Deep Creek Lake State Park overlooking the Deep Creek Lake and flanked by fall trees.

Take a walk or bike on the Oakland Heritage Trail or 88 Bridge walking/biking trail to observe the wonders of the changing season, red leaves, and refreshing air. While here, travel through time at the Garrett County Museum of Transportation and Oakland B&O Railroad Museum. Take part in the town’s annual Autumn Glory Festival, celebrating fall foliage with several musical performances and art for visitors. 

more towns that were featured:

Thurmont is a small town, 10 miles from the Pennsylvania border, with a picture-perfect view at Catoctin Mountain Park, with space for everyone to explore. You can hike or cycle through the Catoctin Mountains or learn about wildlife, observing about 600 wildlife animals at the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo.

Cunningham Falls State Park, which has the largest cascading waterfalls in Maryland, spans nearly 43 acres and is known for its picturesque landscape that shines even better in fall. The lake provides recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, hunting, and camping. Visit one of Thurmont’s orchards, like the Pryors Orchard or the Catoctin Mountain Orchard, which allows visitors to pick fruits while soaking in the classic fall foliage in the small town.

Chesapeake City

Chesapeake City Bridge at Sunset, Maryland USA, Chesapeake City, Maryland
Chesapeake City Bridge at sunset, Chesapeake City, Maryland.

This enchanting small town is registered on the National Register of Historic Places for its notable landmarks like the C&D Canal Museum, excellent 19th-century architecture, and historic sites like the Chesapeake City Historic District. The town also rests at the northern end of the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States. It has a working commercial canal and is laden with abundant natural paths that change with the season.

Chesapeake City offers visitors a relaxing walk or drive through the Ben Cardin Recreational Trail or Chesapeake Wine Trails — a taste of fun and wine. You can spend all day wowing about fall foliage or discover arts, antiques, trendy wear, and ornaments in these high-spirited downtown shops like Belle on Bohemia and Old Gray Mare and Chick’s.

for full article7 Small Towns In Maryland That Come Alive In The Fall – WorldAtlas