'Positive propaganda' from the Illinois DNR

I have always been a staunch supporter of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the dedicated biologists and competent managers working there.

But with the massive budget cuts in that agency, cuts demanded by the governor, the amount of positive propaganda coming from the DNR is incredible.

Here's the latest blurb:

"Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police Officers made 42 arrests on charges of operating under the influence or driving under the influence during the recent Labor Day holiday weekend as part of an enhanced enforcement effort intended to improve safety at state parks and boat access areas."

What the DNR release didn't say was these dedicated officers have always been on the job, doing the exact same thing all year long without any fanfare from Springfield.

Fishing report

Fox Chain: Speaking of fanfare, some of the best bluegill and crappie angling is going on now on Lake Marie and Channel Lake. The walleye action gets better every day, especially on Marie and Petite Lakes. The fall muskie bite has yet to kick into high gear.

Fox River: Small, in-line spinners are a good choice for smallmouth at Batavia, while plastic lures and live bait are doing a number on fish in Elgin. Once again a few walleyes are showing up at the McHenry Dam.

Bangs Lake: There's decent crappie activity in the 10-12 foot depths.

Lake Michigan: Perching is starting to pick up steam at Waukegan, while kings and coho occupy the hearts and minds of many anglers working Chicago's lakefront.

• Mike's Jackson's radio program can be heard Sunday mornings at 6-7 a.m. on WSBC 1240-AM.