“TNB is dedicated to celebrating New Brunswick’s theatre talent,” says TNB Artistic Producer Caleb Marshall. “Over my past four seasons, 55-60% of all actors on stage in our professional productions have been New Brunswickers.”

New Brunswick theatre artists are encouraged to make themselves known to Theatre New Brunswick even if there is not a specific role of interest next season.

The Fredericton Playhouse | Oct. 17-19, 2013

“We certainly welcome New Brunswickers to come in for general auditions,” says Marshall. “As a producer and director I’m always thinking ahead a season or two so it’s important for me to know what talent we have here in New Brunswick. As well with the introduction of TNB Extras in our TNB studio this season, there will be opportunities for artists beyond our Main Stage, Next Stage or Young Company.”

Theatre artists who are unable to audition should ensure that TNB has a current headshot and CV in their New Brunswick theatre talent database.

“We’ve got about 175 New Brunswick theatre artists in our database currently but we continue to discover new talent,” says Marshall. “Not only is this an important tool for our own productions but it has also served as a resource for other theatre companies, film productions and commercial work. So if you’re a New Brunswick actor be sure we have your most recent information on file.”

Specific contract dates and cast breakdowns for the 2013-2014 productions can be found at www.tnb.nb.ca. For general auditions, actors must prepare two contrasting monologues or a song and monologue of their choice. If an actor is selected to audition for a specific role, he or she will be asked to prepare sides from the chosen plays.

To book an audition please call 506-460-1381 ext. 106 by Friday, May 31st.

Headshots and CVs can be submitted in one of two methods.

Mail or drop off in person to:

Theatre New Brunswick
ATTN: Erin Keating
55 Whiting Road, Unit 31
Fredericton, NB, E3B 5Y5

Or email submissions@tnb.nb.ca.

It has also been especially nice to see the wardens and biologists on site interacting with anglers.  That’s the way for everyone to be on the same page!

Normally we would classify this time as the “in-between-season”, but striped Bass have more than amply filled in the gap as we wait for the run of sea trout and the arrival of the first bright salmon.

This photo was taken by Fishery Officer Phillip JM Donovan in Millerton near Barnaby Island on May 12. Natasha and Derek Black fishing with their 3 year old daughter Ruby, equipped with her pink Dora the Explorer spinning rod.

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said last week’s rain had brought the river up nicely and conditions are very good for angling.  There were a few reports of some gaspereaux in the system, so the sea trout should be along soon as they generally follow the gaspereaux.  For sure, the next two weeks will have sea trout reports, but if you want to catch them, you have to be out as they are gone as quickly as they arrive.  There are a few spring salmon around, but basically that season has ended for all purposes.  Any hook-ups now will be while fishing for trout.  There were no bright salmon reported yet, but that time is approaching soon as well.  Fiddleheads are in full swing, so get out and pick a feed.  This long weekend should see a lot of canoes out for a run.

Flies of choice were Muddlers, Woolly Buggers, and some dry fly patterns.

Here is Andrew Anthony, guide at the Ledges Inn, with a nice bass on Tuesday. This is one of 55 that he and Derek Munn caught in about 5 hours. Tight lines!

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said the spring salmon season was over and anglers were switching their efforts to trout.  They were catching a few, but not many yet as thee sea trout haven’t arrived yet.  Their guides and sports have been fishing bass near Miramichi, catching some nice ones, but mostly hooking very good numbers of small ones.

Flies of choice were big Rabbit Strips and black Marabous.

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb’s Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said spring salmon were basically finished and only a few trout in the 12-14 inch range were being caught.  The water had come up nicely.  It was basically an “in-between” time in that area as anglers await the sea trout and the first few bright salmon.

Flies of choice were Muddlers, Rat-Faced McDougall’s and some dry flies such as Killer Whiskers.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said the spring salmon season was over and anglers were picking up a few trout in the 12-14 inch range.  There were3 no bright salmon reported yet.  They felt it would be a busy weekend for canoers.  There are still a few openings for the May 25 Fly Fishing School. Contact them at (506)843-2481.

Flies of choice were Muddlers, Chief Needabahs and Black Ghosts on no. 4 hooks.

George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said that angling there was very quiet.  Anglers were picking up only a few small trout, most less than 12 inches, at the Mouth of Renous, in front of Kenny Hayes’ and near the Quarryville Bridge.  There were some bigger trout around, but they were not being caught.  There had been a few Striped Bass caught below the bridge.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Muddlers and Copper Killers on no. 4 hooks.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported lots of Striped Bass in the Miramichi area and right on through to above the Johnson Bridge on the Northwest.  The annual Red Bank Trout Derby is on this weekend Friday to Sunday.  Spring salmon were basically finished and there were no reports of brights yet.

Flies of choice were Muddlers Trout, Renous Specials and Smelts for Stripped Bass.  Now is the time to stock up on bright salmon flies.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said spring salmon were done except for a few stragglers.  There were no brights reports yet, but Syd said he would not be surprised to hear of one or two by the weekend.  There was the odd trout being caught and even a couple of bright sea trout.  He saw one 21-incher (4 pounds) caught by Ba Tran Quan who also had a 20-incher the day before.  Fiddleheads are up and ready for picking.

Syd reported tremendous Striped Bass fishing in Miramichi. There were so many they had eaten the waders off Dave Ingersoll who had to call for a new pair which had to be sent by special delivery by Syd’s wife Linda.  However, Ingersoll was so excited to get back to fishing, he forgot to put them on properly and was complaining he would have to return them as they kept falling down.  He had forgotten to snap the braces together.  Linda maintained that her job was only to deliver the waders, and to have to dress Ingersoll as well.

Flies of choice were Carter’s Bug, Muddlers, Black Ghosts, Yellow-winged Butterflies and White-tailed Green Machines on no. 4 hooks.

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said angling was quiet with only the odd spring salmon left, and no brights yet.  There were a few smaller trout being caught and the odd one in the 24 inch range.  There were lots of Striped Bass right up to the head of tide.  The out-going smolt run was in full swing.  The MSA had tagged 40 smolt with pingers to determine how many were making it out of the river and how many were being eaten by Striped Bass.  One Striped Bass keeper in the 57 cm range when cleaned had the following in its tummy: 1 smolt, 2 brook trout, 1 small bass and 7 smelts.

Flies of choice were Mickey Finns, Muddlers, and Butterflies

Striped Bass anglers near the Old Morrissy Bridge on the Chatham Head side of City of Miramichi. Photo by Kendall Sturgeon

So with a long weekend on tap, take the opportunity to get out and “on the water”.

Don’t forget to show your support for our sponsors, because without them, this column would not be possible.

Drop in to Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers in Riverview to stock up on streamers for spring angling as well as any other equipment you may need such as a Redington Rod.

Providing quality gear for the outdoor enthusiast all year round, Pronature in Miramichi has you covered. Stop in to check out their rods, reels, tackle and gear.

Check out Deals 4 U in Miramichi for your grocery needs, and good Cuban cigars to celebrate getting back to the rivers.

ANY FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARD HELPING WITH THIS COLUMN ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED. Click here to donate now.  A SPECIAL THANKS to all who made contributions last season.

Ledgar Jardine, age 19 months, fishing bass last day of retention season at Enclosure SW Miramichi

Thought for the Week:
“Soon after I embraced the sport of angling I became convinced that I should never be able to enjoy it if I had to rely on the cooperation of the fish.”  Sparse Grey Hackle

Email:

From Marc Lanteigne, Aquatic Resources Division Manager

There may be some confusion on what to do when you catch a striped bass with a DFO tag.  The following information provides some instructions.

Striped Bass Tagging Study

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) regularly tag fish in experiments to record fish behaviour, movements, growth and fishing catch rates.   The recovery of tagged fish and the success of such tagging campaign rely on the collaboration of recreational anglers and the fishing industry.

If you caught a tagged Striped Bass please take the following steps:

• Remove the tag from the fish
• Take note of capture date and location
• Record total length (if possible)
• Send the tag and all information to the address indicated on the tag

Striped Bass tagging study
Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Science Branch P.O. Box 5030 Moncton, NB E1C 9B6

If you want to know more about the tag information you collected and forwarded to DFO, please provide your name and address with the information

_______________________________________________

Bass anglers at Wilson’s Point

From the Miramichi Salmon Association

Hi All

Well today (May 15) is the last day of the retention fishery for striped bass. The season remains open for hook and release so please continue to enjoy this great fishery. Many people took advantage of the fishery but the size restriction did limit what some people took home as many reported catching fish but no keepers on certain days. I have attached a few pictures of anglers. I have also attached a picture of a bass with a smolt and trout that had been removed from its stomach on May 14th. The angler reported removing one smolt, two trout, 7 smelts and a baby bass. The bass are taking advantage of anything available to them.

Smolt and brook trout from stomach of bass

DFO has begun tagging bass removed from a gaspereau trap this week. Over 2300 bass were taken from the trap on Monday and about 300 of those fish were tagged. They are continuing to tag bass today and Friday and will continue three days a week until the gaspereau season starts. The gaspereau season usually starts around the 27th of May. DFO has a permit to remove stomach contents from 1000 bass and are taking some from this trap, the smolt trap, Red Bank fishery and anglers. They may not use all 1000 fish but we are anxious to hear of their results.

I was misinformed on what to do if you catch a tagged fish. Please remove the tag and send it with information on where and when it was caught, size and if it was retained to:

Scott Douglas
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
PO Box 5030
Moncton NB E1C 9B6

Bass anglers at Strawberry Marsh

I had mentioned we were tagging 25 smolts leaving the Northwest to track their progress leaving the Miramichi system – the number has been modified to 40 with ASF moving some of the tags they had to the Northwest project.

Our smolt wheels continue to operate 7 days a week with highs of around 500 smolt being caught in one day. Numbers are down again today but we are expecting another peak with the next warm rain. The wheels and the smolt trap will be fished for another couple of weeks.

We will be tagging kelt with the remaining satellite tags and some more acoustic tags tomorrow.

The Miramichi Fly Fishing & Sportsman Show will be held Friday and Saturday May 24th and 25th at the Miramichi Curling Club. Please stop by = admission is $5 and all proceeds will go to support the Youth Fly Fishing Club.

The 2013 Annual Freeman Dunnett Moncton Conservation Dinner will be held on Thursday May 16th at the Crowne Plaza in Moncton. For last minute tickets please contact Jo-Anne at 506.457.2220 or Nola at 506.622.4000.

Province ponders new Crown waters rules
By James Foster
Times & Transcript
May 14, 2013

The provincial Department of Natural Resources says the Crown Reserve stretches are only producing about the half the revenue needed to maintain them and after the annual draw for the stretches is held every spring about half the stretches remain unclaimed. They are trying to find a better way of managing the stretches both for fishermen and the province so the department is exploring its options and consulting with user groups. For the full story go to http://www.miramichisalmon.ca/province-ponders-new-crown-waters-rules/

Have a great week

Nola

Young anglers fishing bass last day of retention season at Enclosure SW Miramichi

Until next week
TIGHT LINES
DOUG

Melanie Richard (photo courtesy NBCC).

Yes, it was homework.

But as the project grew, Melanie Richard started to use her imagination, grabbing some inspirational wind in her talented sails along the way.

Ms. Richard’s ship came in when she was announced the winner of a promotional poster contest for the New Brunswick Festival of Tall Ships on the Miramichi, scheduled for May 31 to June 2. The contest was sponsored by the Miramichi Chamber of Commerce.

She is a second-year student in NBCC Miramichi’s Animation and Graphics program under the direction of staff members Norma MacLean, Debbie Larsen and others.

“This was a school project that was part of our mark, but it became more than that for me because I really had an interest in this design package because of the interesting subject of tall ships,” said Ms. Richard, a native of Grand-Digue, NB. “I thoroughly enjoyed the design package. I was really surprised to find out I had won. Some of my classmates created some amazing work. I put a lot of time into the package. It was a lot of fun.”

Ms. Richard would probably be attending the tall ships and all their splendour in the downtown core and on the Mighty Miramichi River, but it’s going to be a little extra special to see her design prowess all over the region promoting the three-day event.

Melanie’s winning design (photo courtesy NBCC).

A little ironic considering she’s an avid outdoor enthusiast, but hadn’t spent a lot of time researching tall ships and their allure prior to the class assignment.

“I’m not going to say I was an avid fan of the tall ships, but I do love the artwork of ships,” she said. “That’s where my inspiration came from. I envisioned the wood work detail, the sails, the flags and the windows and portholes. I wanted to make the design bright and cheerful which is why I chose brightly coloured wood. The pictures of the ships were also brighter images.”

The design features a family of four in a left-hand porthole depiction, flanked on the right by two majestic tall ships with the bright blue water and white cloud cover drawing the eye to the stars of the show. A stand-alone tall ship in the bottom right corner acknowledging the Festival of Tall Ships and a ribbon panel with the event’s name and dates also dots the design.

The award-winning design has fuelled Ms. Richard’s passion for her chosen field of study. It was the reason she enrolled at NBCC Miramichi out of Shediac’s Louis J. Robichaud High School in the first place.

“I chose NBCC because I believed it had the best course for the field of graphic design in New Brunswick,” she said. “I’ve been fortunate to have some incredible instructors during my two years here.”

Two years has certainly passed quickly. It’s almost time to create her biggest design to date … her future.

“I would love to be working in my field of studies within the Moncton area since all of my family lives in that region,” said Richard. “There are certainly goals I have and within five years of working, I’m hoping to be opening a business with two other partners to do brand and design work. With that being said, I would also love to do extra graphic design work as another self-employment endeavour.”

Article & photos republished by permission of NBCC In the Loop.

As a participant you will:

• Identify important social issues facing your community
• Connect with other social entrepreneurs and experts
• Design real entrepreneurial solutions
• Be inspired to start your own social enterprise and come away with a solid plan for moving forward

This is an intensive two and a half  day workshop designed to build knowledge, skills and awareness about how business enterprises can be used to address some of New Brunswick’s most vexing social, environmental, cultural and/or economic issues. By working in teams and using experiential activities, participants will learn how to launch their social enterprise (SE) ideas into action.

Who should attend: Social entrepreneurs (non-profits, business owners, community activists, and others) who want to use the social enterprise model to address issues in their community.

The fee to attend is $187, which includes all meals.

For questions email amanda.hachey@cecnb.ca or call 506.850.6569. For more information or to register visit the event website. This event is sponsored by the Pond-Deshpande Centre at the University of New Brunswick.

Deborah Leitch

Deborah Leitch, born and raised in Miramichi, has just published her first science fiction novel Heaven’s Gate and the setting for the novel is our home town.

Deborah is a practicing Registered Nurse who has been working in health care for over 30 years. Caring for patients in their last moments of life, she often reflected upon life energy and where it goes when it is no longer needed by the body. That reflection and the question, “What if it never got to its destination?” formed the impetus for this novel.

The setting for the novel is Miramichi in a place called Mullen Stream Falls. The falls is well known for the bottomless pool at its base and added the sense of mystique needed for the novel.

Heaven’s Gate takes you on an adventure of scientific possibility, clashing values, and spiritual reflection as Simon, a young physicist’s quest to discover where energy goes after death crosses with a physician’s ambition to collect energy at the time of death.

Heaven’s Gate by Deborah Leitch.

Dr. Thomas wants to use the energy to extend the lives of those dying patients he deems worthy. His business partner has other ideas. He plans to sell the energy to anyone willing to pay for the dream of eternal life. The plans become complicated with the discovery that not just any energy will do. Successful transfer will only occur if the donor possesses certain virtues.

The diversion of life energy from its intended destination starts to have grave consequences for the town and an age old secret that has been protected by the natives since the beginning of time is uncovered. The purpose of life is revealed. The young physicist must find a way to overcome his personal weaknesses and stop the energy diversion before the damage is irreversible and the people he cares about most are harmed.

The 283 page paperback version of Heaven’s Gate is available for purchase on Amazon.com. A digital version is available for Kindle on the Amazon website as well.

You can find out more about the author as well at Amazon.com.

The Voyageur Canoe, Sipu.

As a central hub of celebration during the New Brunswick Festival of Tall Ships on the Miramichi, the Beaubears Island Interpretive Centre will be bringing history to life on the Island during daily tours of the National Historic Site. Even so, the Tall ships won’t be the only vessel on the water this weekend. The Voyageur Canoe Sipu, is also taking to the pristine azure waters of the Miramichi, for a special limited engagement that will see her voyage alongside the visiting ships at daybreak.

Centuries ago, Mi’kmaq hunters paddled their canoes to Quoomeneegook, heavy laden with their catch and anxious to divide it with their brethren. In time, their French counterparts would utilize similar vessels in their search for the valuable furs of the region. Now, the Beaubears Island Interpretive Centre will look to recapture these heady days with their 26 foot, ten-passenger, Voyageur Canoe.

Saturday, June 1st, and Sunday, June 2nd, the canoe will embark from Ritchie’s Wharf at 7 am and convey her passengers along the banks of the Miramichi River, affording picturesque views of the remarkable landscape and the stunning architecture of riverfront properties.

Then will come the truest treasure of the voyage, when Sipu greets her venerable counterparts and allows travellers to see the Tall Ships close–up on the water, their mammoth presence to quiet the proudest heart; a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Prices are set at $15/person, or $10 with bracelet, but spaces are limited and filling fast. Do not delay, and ensure your place alongside your fellow Miramichiers and alongside the Tall Ships.

The Beaubears Island Shipbuilding National Historic Site of Canada, J. Leonard O’Brien Memorial, is the only known, undisturbed archaeological site associated with the national significance of the 19th century wooden shipbuilding industry in New Brunswick. For this reason alone, the Island uniquely compliments the Tall Ships Festival in a way that no other site can. For more information, call (506)622-8526 or visit beaubearsisland.ca.

Ryan Somers and wife, Heidi.

A Miramichi man has auditioned for The Score network’s fifth season of Gillette DRAFTED: The Search for Canada’s Next Sportscaster.

Ryan Somers of Newcastle attended auditions held in Halifax earlier this month in hopes of winning the job of his lifetime―a one year contract with The Score as its newest sportscaster, as well as a one year spokesperson contract with Gillette in Canada.

“All I do in life is talk about sports,” Ryan says. “I’m very proud to represent Miramichi and very excited to have this opportunity.”

Ryan, a substitute school teacher and bartender at The Boulevard Pub, has been interested in sports practically since the day he was born. He played hockey and baseball most of his life amongst other sports. Ryan was Athlete of the Year at Miramichi Valley High School in 1998, the same year he was the leading scorer for the Pulamoo.

Ryan Somers audition in Halifax.

“When people see me around town, they hardly ever ask me how I’m doing,” Ryan says. “It’s more likely they will ask me ‘What’s wrong with your Dodgers?’ or ‘What happened to your Habs last night?’ Honestly, that’s basically my life.”

Ryan is happily married to Heidi and they have two fur babies, Pico the cat and Cupcake the dog.

Kicking off May 4th in Halifax, the Gillette DRAFTED audition crew hit the road in search of Canada’s freshest face in sports broadcasting. And following the month-long Canada-wide search, 24 hopefuls will be invited to compete for one of six coveted finalist spots on the upcoming season of Gillette DRAFTED.

Ryan Somers wants to be one of them and you can help him get there. Show Ryan your support by watching and liking his audition video on YouTube. Follow him on Twitter @RysieSomers and remember to use his personal hashtag #DraftRysie as well as the official hashtag for the competition #GilletteDrafted.

“We’re extremely excited about partnering with Gillette to bring back Gillette DRAFTED for a fifth season,” says Greg Sansone, Vice President, The Score Television Network. “And, once again, we’ll be inviting viewers to have their say and cast their vote which will make things that much more interesting.”

Ryan in Las Vegas.

Auditions have already happened in Halifax and Calgary and continue in Vancouver on May 25th and 26th before finishing up in Toronto from June 1st to 2nd.

“There’s no debate that Gillette DRAFTED has uncovered a wealth of talent in Canada over the last four seasons,” says Rob Chambers, Brand Manager, Gillette Canada. “We’ve helped give the past winners a great start to their careers and we’re looking forward to welcoming a new face to the Gillette Canada family.”

For more information about Gillette DRAFTED, visit Drafted.ca and visit Gillette on Facebook to learn about Gillette’s grooming line-up.

And to stay up-to-date on everything DRAFTED, follow on Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr.

Good luck, Ryan! Everyone in the Mighty Miramichi is rooting for you!

“When we first heard about the Community Food Mentors course we immediately knew it was something we wanted to help bring to our community,” says Stacy Underhill, Secretary/Treasurer of the Greater Blackville Resource Centre and coordinator of the CFM program in Blackville.

Blackville’s Community Food Mentors Graduation Back Row (L to R): MLA Jake Stewart, Kenneth McIntosh, Pastor Albertine LeBlanc, Alice Bryenton, Mayor Hal Muck, Barbara Doiron Front Row: Darlene Jardine, Twila Donahue, Joy Underhill, Penny Curtis, Lorraine Underhill Absent: Mae Curtis, Jessica Sargent, Lucy McCray, Coordinator Stacy Underhill

“I want to thank you for all your work in making the Food Mentors course such a success,” says Penny Curtis, a participant. “I am sure that everyone enjoyed their days and learned a great deal. Please thank all those who assisted. They each put many hours into preparation and delivery of excellent presentations.”

The project was supported by the Community Inclusion Network.

“The Community Food Mentor training is built on the interest and skills of communities and it was clear in Blackville that it was the motivation and passion of the coordinator, facilitators, guests, and participants that made it so successful, fun, and inspiring,” says Rébeka Frazer-Chiasson, Coordinator for the Community Inclusion Network Region 7. “It made so much sense for the Northumberland Community Inclusion Network to work on this project with the Greater Blackville Resource Centre since it complements both organizations’ visions of a community that uses people’s energy and abilities to increase access to good, healthy, and affordable food.”

“Thank you for the opportunity to participate in the Food Mentors Program,” says participant, Mae Curtis. “I enjoyed every minute of it – the presenters, that you chose, were excellent and very interesting. I learned something new every day that I attended.”

Learning how to collect and sow seeds.

Food is a necessary part of everyone’s life and issues involving food and food security are becoming increasingly complex. Today society is faced with many food choices, conflicting information about diet and health, limited time for meal preparation and questions about how and where food is grown. Some face additional challenges such as living on low incomes, limited transportation, limited kitchen facilities or limited food knowledge and preparation skills.

CFMs are a province-wide network of certified individuals who share their skills in food and nutrition within their own communities. The goal of the CFM program is to develop a network of dedicated food mentors in New Brunswick communities through a shared learning experience that will increase the exchange of information on food skills, healthy eating practices and local food sourcing in the province.

“Bringing people together in a learning environment, sharing ideas with each other, and generating positive community spirit is exactly what GBRC is all about,” Underhill says. “In addition to operating the food bank and clothing thrift store we have a long-term vision for GBRC to be a true resource centre for everyone in the community, and not just those that need to access the food bank. Projects such as starting a community garden where participants share their gardening expertise and have access to fresh vegetables, which may not have been possible for them before, is just one example.”

Barbara Doiron shares her Blueberry Jam recipe with the group.

Frazer-Chiasson adds, “The Community Food Mentor training aims to share tools, tips, and ideas that will increase community capacity and enable participants to take action within their community whether by sharing information with their neighbour or participating in a community project. We look forward to working with the new Community Food Mentors and other community members in the region on food security and other community projects.”

A few of the recent CFM graduates are interested in starting a community garden and are wondering if others in the Blackville area want to get involved.

A community garden is where people get together to share a plot of land, share the use of tools, fertilizer, a tiller, and also share the workload of weeding, watering and caring for the garden. Afterwards the harvest is shared among the participants, used to make preserves, donated to others, or whatever the group chooses to do. The garden will be located in Blackville and the size will depend on the amount of interest received.

There is also an opportunity for individuals to rent their own garden plot that they plant, maintain, and harvest themselves and keep the food for their own families. There would be a small fee to rent a plot of land ($10 – $20). This is good for people who are comfortable gardening on their own but don’t have the space or tools at home. If you are interested in joining the planning committee, renting a garden plot for yourself, working on a larger plot and sharing the harvest with others, or just want to learn more about it, contact Ken MacIntosh at kmacintosh@xplornet.ca or (506) 843-7872.

For more information about the CFM program visit their website. http://nbfoodsecurity.ca/community-food-mentor-program/

With the new bass season, anglers are reminded to keep all areas free of litter and to respect the species and practice correct release.  If rules and common sense are not followed, we could lose the season people fought so hard to get for us.

Bass caught by Derek Munn, one of the many landed on rabbit strips and marabou patterns.

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said there were still some spring salmon around as they have been seen jumping as they drop down-river.  However, they are extremely hard to catch.  Anglers have been picking up some trout in the 14-15 inch range.  Water levels are getting down, and a good rain would be appreciated, but levels are still good for the time of year.  It is the “in-between season” there as spring salmon are pretty well over and the sea trout are yet to arrive.  Anglers generally look for the sea trout from mid May on. Fiddleheads should soon be on the menu.

Flies of choice were Muddlers, Black Woolly Buggers, and small dry flies such as the Wulff patterns.

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said they were averaging 3-5 spring salmon a day until this week when they pretty well wrapped up that season.  There were some trout reports, but nothing of any size.  The water conditions were good for the time of year, but a god rain would certainly help.  They had even joined anglers in the |City of Miramichi in angling for striped bass.  There were reports of some 20-pounders being hooked and released.  Munn and his guest were actually fly-fishing for them and did pick up a couple in the seven to 10 pound range.

Flies of choice were dark Marabous.

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb’s Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said angling for spring salmon was very slow with that season pretty well coming to a close, as anglers were working quite hard to pick up the odd fish here and there. Over all, there had been very few spring grilse hooked, although the salmon numbers were decent.  The water was in decent shape, but dropping fast.  A good rain was needed for both the rivers and the fire situation.  The big river rush was over now for about three to four weeks as anglers await the bright salmon season.  There were reports of decent trout numbers in the 12-14 inch range.

Flies of choice were smaller streamers in Black Ghosts, Mickey Finns and Renous Specials along with some Muddlers.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said the  spring salmon season was just about over.  There were still some fish around, but they were very hard to get.  There were some trout, but not hoards.  They did hear a report of a six-pounder being caught.  Canoeing conditions were very good.  The water was down, but a good rain is needed.  Curtis Miramichi Outfitters will be holding their Fly Fishing Schools.  The first session is this Saturday, and runs from about 8:30 to 4 p.m.  Cost is $95.00 a person, young or old.  They plan to offer these every second week.  Check with them for dates.  They can accommodate about eight per class.  Those in attendance are instructed in both fly tying and casting as well as other hints and information about salmon angling.  All equipment is provided.  They also offer separate courses on spey casting.

Flies of choice were L. T. Specials, Chief Needabahs and Muddlers.

George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said angling there was very slow with very few spring salmon being caught and not many trout.  The water was perfect, but dropping quickly, and a good rain was needed.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Blue Smelts, Renous Specials, Golden Eagles and Mickey Finns for salmon.  Trout anglers were using Muddlers, Copper Killers, Black Ghosts and small white or gray Wulffs.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported a few spring salmon and added that the striped bass angling was very good.  He added that it was good to see so many people, young and old, making use of the river.  There were some big bass in the 15-pound range reported.  He had not received any trout reports.

Flies of choice were Renous Specials, Black Ghosts and Muddlers.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said angling for spring salmon was fair, but most anglers were going out  for bass in the lower sections near City of Miramichi and below the Red Bank Bridge.  There were some nice trout with a three-pounder reported

Flies of choice were Golden Eagle in 2.0 and 3.0 sizes along with some Black Ghosts, Blue Smelts and Silver Smelts.

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said spring salmon had been good for a couple of weeks, but was tapering off.  There were still a few jumping.  There were no bright trout yet, and very few trout over all.  Smelts were in big-time and the smolts had started their run out to sea.  Many anglers were fishing Striped Bass, and she asked that people respect the species and take care in releasing them.

Flies of choice were Sharon’s Dream (a white & blue streamer), Golden Eagles. Ronnie Ward Specials and Winnipesauke Smelts.

So with the season moving to Striped Bass and Trout, it is time to get out and  “on the water”.

Don’t forget to show your support for our sponsors, because without them, this column would not be possible.

Drop in to Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers in Riverview to stock up on streamers for spring angling as well as any other equipment you may need such as a Redington Rod.

Providing quality gear for the outdoor enthusiast all year round, Pronature in Miramichi has you covered. Stop in to check out their rods, reels, tackle and gear.

Check out Deals 4 U in Miramichi for your grocery needs, and good Cuban cigars to celebrate getting back to the rivers.

ANY FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARD HELPING WITH THIS COLUMN ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED. Click here to donate now.  A SPECIAL THANKS to all who made contributions last season.

From MSA…

The striped bass fishery opened on Wednesday May 1st with a retention of one fish allowed per day until May 15th. After that it will be hook and release. We had our first striped bass for supper last night – filleted, little egg and cracker batter, fried in olive oil – it was delicious. I had been told to be sure to remove the red “meat” – stripe of red down the side of the fillet – as it may spread a bitter taste to the fish – and I read it as well when researching online how best to cook. The size slot is narrow for what you are allowed to keep (55 – 65 cm) and many smaller and larger are being caught and released but lots of legal fish are being taken as well. I am definitely a fan.

DFO Officer Kendall Sturgeon brought me the attached picture of a young boy with his first striped bass. He brought it to the officers and asked if he could keep it. They helped him tie it to his bike and he drove it home – very proud. The picture was taken at Strawberry Marsh in Newcastle. The officers reported people catching between 5 and 30 fish each during these first few days. The weather is going to be great the next week so grab your fishing rod and get out there.

Photo of Jacob Tenass by Kendall Sturgeon

The MSA appeared in a lot of press this past while.

A reporter from the Gleaner interviewed Jerry Doak, Dan Bullock and Keith Wilson, along with anglers staying with Keith and some fishing at the Doaktown Bridge. The full story can be found at http://www.miramichisalmon.ca/the-lore-of-miramichi-draws-hundreds/

The Miramichi Leader printed a story about striped bass interviewing Jim Laws and MSA President Mark Hambrook: http://www.miramichisalmon.ca/limited-season-for-striped-bass-opens-on-wednesday/

Rodney Colford’s article in the Moncton Times & Transcript reports on how fishing is going on the Southwest Miramichi going into the third week of the season.  http://www.miramichisalmon.ca/fishing-remains-decent-on-miramichi/

And last but definitely not least the Bathurst Northern Light reported on funding the MSA will be receiving this year from the Atlantic Salmon Conservation Foundation. We will be receiving $12,000 from the Foundation for use of satellite tag technology to monitor kelt movement and water temperature preferences from the Miramichi River through the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Without funding from organizations like this our field season would not happen.
http://www.miramichisalmon.ca/atlantic-salmon-conservation-foundation-funds-projects/

I would also like to thank the New Brunswick Wildlife Trust Fund who have funded us again this year. The MSA will be receiving $6,775 to help carry out the kelt tracking program, $14,000 to go toward the Northwest Miramichi smolt program and $10,000 toward our electrofishing program (juvenile assessment). For information on these and our other field programs go to http://www.miramichisalmon.ca/programs/ and also check out the Programs menu items.

Plan to attend…

Hello Doug:
I have attached some images that may be of interest to you. These images (geotagged) were taken yesterday afternoon on the Bay du Vin River. We were involved in a habitat assessment, Atlantic salmon potential, of the river and came across the two structures. They appear to be constructed from sandstone blocks and given their scale it may have been a bit of an undertaking to construct.
Good day,
Vladimir King Trajkovic, EPt

Atlantic Salmon Federation News
Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Rivernotes Looks at Early Miramichi salmon season & ASF Research Activity
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The season for spring salmon opened three weeks ago, and Rivernotes takes a look at the results. Also updates on the field activities of ASF researchers in past week:
http://atlanticsalmonfederation.org/rivernotes/?p=1216

New Nova Scotia Signs to Protect Fish
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ASF together with Cape Breton partners have created new signage to show anglers how to identify young salmon and brook trout. Read more:
http://www.asf.ca/new-ns-signs-to-project-juvenile-fish.html

Restored Access to 15,000 acres of ponds and lakes in Maine
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ASF’s Maine Headwaters Project is focused on restoring critical spawning habitat to sea-run fish in tributaries identified as high priorities in State of Maine restoration plans. Check out the program:
http://www.asf.ca/restoring-spawning-habitat-for-maine-sea-run-fish.html

Getting Out Word on Need for Sustainable Aquaculture
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An article entitled “Gloves Come Off in Salmon Wars” examines how an original vision of sustainable aquaculture has turned into an industry where growth is paramount, and large impacts on the environment have led to a need to rethink its future. Views include those of ASF’s Sue Scott and ACAR’s Matt Abbott:
http://www.asf.ca/gloves-come-off-in-salmon-wars.html

Tax Bill for Fish Kills Rapped
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Another issue for average Canadians is the direct cost in tax dollars of the required kills and cleanup that result from industry ISA outbreaks:
http://asf.ca/tax-bill-for-fish-kills-rapped.html

NY Times Looks At ISA Issue on West Coast
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It is always interesting when the NY Times turns its attention to salmon issues. In this case it not only provides an update of BC’s situation, but looks at steps being taken to identify the lethal salmon virus in Alaska, Washington and Idaho:
http://asf.ca/scientists-divided-on-isa-threat-in-pacific-nw.html

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To keep track of breaking news on wild Atlantic salmon, use the Atlantic Salmon Federation’s presence on Facebook. Log in, search for Atlantic Salmon Federation, and click “like”.

Nice trout caught in the estuary today by Greg Amos fishing with Derek Munn. 22 inches.

Thought for the Week: “I’ve gone fishing thousands of times in my life, and I have never once felt unlucky or poorly paid for those hours on the water.” William Tapply  “A Fly-Fishing Life”

Until next week
TIGHT LINES
DOUG