OQUOSSOC – Deputy Commissioner Paul Jacques, Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, chose the May meeting of the Rangeley Region Guides’ and Sportsmen’s Association to present a Dave Footer print and plaque of appreciation to Bill Hanson, Kyle Murphy and Bob Richter of Florida Power and Light.

In the presence of the more than 60 members as well as Dave Boucher, Inland Fisheries biologist, and John Boland, director of operations of its Fishing and Hatchery Division, the three men were cited for helping the regional Inland Fisheries staff with efforts to sustain a viable trout fishery on the Rapid River.

It was noted the firm’s telemetry studies tracking the invasive bass species as well as their studies of movement patterns of trout and salmon in this fishery have helped biologists as they work to understanding the idiosyncrasies of the Rapid River.

Jacques challenged club members to be on the look-out for any “bucket biologists,” persons dumping the ultra-invasive bass or any other invasive species, into area waters. All were directed to take plate numbers and call a warden or the Inland Fisheries office to have newly enacted laws enforced, protecting the trout and salmon fishery from certain ruin.

As a token of the club’s appreciation, President Don Palmer presented them with a copy of ” Carrie Steven’s Maker of Rangeley Favorite Trout and Salmon Flies.”

Herb Morse of Hermon was the winner of the club’s spring raffle.

In the business portion, Palmer outlined upcoming projects. The Junior Guides will once again meet on Mondays at the clubhouse as of July 5. Contact Stephanie Palmer to register 9- to 13-year-olds. The club will host Fly Fishermen of Maine at a cookout on Saturday, June 12.

The South Bog Stream restoration is scheduled for July and August. The kids’ fish pond will be restocked and available to fishing by kids and catch and release by adults.

A celebratory birthday cake was shared by all in honor of John Thomas’ 80th birthday.

The next meeting will be Thursday, June 17, beginning with a 5:30 p.m. potluck meal. Meetings, open to all, are held at the association’s clubhouse on Old Skiway Road, Oquossoc.


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.