Captures of smallmouth bass on the lower Allegheny River this year were the highest in four years of electro-fishing surveys, according to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. Seventy smallmouths per hour were sampled, which is better than in 1989, 1993 and 2005.

The catch per hour of fish over 12 and 15 inches was second only to 1989. The Fish Commission chalks up the good statistics to better fishing conditions and more abundant fish.

Muskie matters

In its effort to be more interactive with anglers, the Fish and Boat Commission has posted an on-line survey seeking angler opinions of changes recently made to statewide muskie stockings. Twenty-nine rivers and lakes have been removed from the list and another 25 are slated to receive extra muskie or tiger muskie fingerlings. Just nine were planted with bonus fish this year. For the survey and muskie management changes, visit www.fish.state.pa.us.

Rod building

Family Tyes will offer its fly rod building course, with pre-registration at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Baldwin High School north cafeteria, and the first class is set for Dec. 4. The course will be continue Monday and Wednesday evenings for at least a month.

The cost will start at $85 but could be higher depending on the rod blank chosen. For more, visit www.familytyes.com or call instructor Rich Jones at 412-882-1873.

Watershed assistance

Grants of up to $2,500 are available for regional watershed groups through a partnership between Dominion and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. Groups seeking funds for watershed improvement projects may apply for $1,000 to cover operating expenses and up to $2,500 for promotion, outreach or restoration projects.

For more information, visit www.paconserve.org or call 724-459-0953, extension 103. Grant applications must be postmarked by Dec. 15.