Baitcasting Blind – Learning to Use a Baitcaster- I’m not sure exactly when it was that I thought I should give baitcast reels another chance. It may have been when my buddy J.P. Ostiguy slapped my spincast reel on his frog rod one hot summer afternoon fishing Bass on Constance Lake.new
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 1)
Drop Shotting- Drop shotting is a technique that has put a bunch of fish in my boat every year but never was a go to style for me until I got the entire deal figured out.new
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 0)
Feel the Bass Bite with the Right Jig Rod- Advances in rod and line sensitivity and lighter and more balanced rods and reels have opened up new opportunities to further refine the ways we fish jigs.new
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 0)
Ice Fishing Crappie Tactics- Fishing success relies on many factors, regardless of the species you’re after. Yet, when it comes to catching crappie through the ice, this particular species has a tendency to sometimes test an angler’s patience to the limits. Inew
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 0)
In Search of the Yellow Perch- Winter perch can be some of the most exciting fishing available to winter anglers. Although perch themselves do not grow big compared to a walleye or pike, the schools they roam in are. Big numbers of perch are present in lakes all across Ontario with easy access and high possession limits.new
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 1)
In-Land Laker Takers- Relatively big in size, hard fighting and great tasting lake trout can be fairly simple fish for any angler to catch. Many different lure options can be used for lakers through the ice. The following lure tips include my 4 favourite offerings for winter in-land lake trout.new
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 1)
Pounding bottom for Whitefish?- For the first time in a long time there seems to be a changing of the guard when it comes to top producing lures when fishing for Whitefish.new
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 1)
Puffing- A few anglers will jig spinnerbaits (can work great), but in general, a speed is picked and the bait is cranked in. Regardless of skirt material, it’s best to “puff” a spinner on the way in.new
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 1)
Return- There is no doubt at all, that rumors of muskies strictly being loners is false. A good feeding area is a good feeding area – and they don’t necessarily take turns.new
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 1)
The Urban Angle – Ottawa- Although Ottawa may be a city where politics reign supreme, there’s no denying that the top-notch fishing opportunities are giving the suits a run for their money.new
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 0)
Tim AllardStealth Strategies for Shallow Water Panfish- When targeting panfish in in shallow water the quieter you are, the better. Panfish, like bluegills and crappie, can be skittish to overhead noises and movement. Here are some tips to help with your hushed hunting.new
(Added: 12-Mar-2010 Hits: 0)
10 Pre-Ice Fishing Tips- With autumn coming to a close, ice fishing season is just around the corner. Now's the time to audit your gear and make sure your organized for first ice action. To help you get ready, here's a list of 10 things I do to get ready for the hard-water.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 444)
A Beginners Guide to Ice Fishing- Ice fishing is growing in popularity with each passing year, luring eager anglers to the sport with a passionate frenzy. Most become hooked with that first crank of the auger handle, igniting a life-long hobby and fascination with the "hard stuff." But what are the necessary requirements when it comes to outfitting yourself for a day on the ice?
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 534)
A Case for Quality Hooks- As the saying goes, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. The same logic can be applied to fishing tackle. Many of us won't hesitate to buy quality reels, rods, line or lures, but for some reason hooks often seem to get the short-end of our spending stick. Perhaps it's their simplicity or small-size that results in anglers avoiding investing the cash for quality hooks, but they're one of the most important pieces of fishing gear you'll own.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 415)
A Case for Quality Nets- To me there's nothing wrong with keeping the occasional fish for the table; however, most of my fish I release. Catch and release has been a mainstream practice for the past few decades. Most anglers are familiar with the basics of how to play, handle, and release a fish to ensure the best chances of post-release recovery. One tool that will keep catch-and-release procedures safe for you and the fish is a quality net.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 420)
Alternate Species to Fish For in Ontario- Every angler knows of the fine eating qualities of a walleye, the ferocious fighting abilities of a smallmouth bass, the brute force of a musky or the beauty and mystique of a brook trout. However, we pass up some great fishing opportunities by overlooking some of the nontraditional fish Ontario waters have to offer.
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 3321)
An Introduction to Springtime Crappies- We all as anglers have our special rites of spring. For some it involves floating roe down a tributary stream for early season steelies. Others enjoy the opportunity to lock horns with the ice out water wolves that slowly cruise the shallows. My early season angling is occupied by one specie and one specie only - and that is Mr. Crappie.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 451)
Anchors Away!- From the basic "cement-in-a-bucket" to the tried-and-true fluke or grapnel, anchors come in a wide variety of shapes and styles. No matter what size boat you skim across your favourite lake in, having an anchor on board assures safe boating, while also permitting the angler to have a controlled and drift-free fishing excursion.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 466)
April 2001 Newsletter- This issue contains: Spring Steelhead Primer, A Freebie from the MNR, The FishWitch Journal, Classifieds and
Lodge Directory. To view or print the issue as a Adobe PDF file (290K) use this link: http://ontariofishing.net/news/april2001.pdf
(Added: 2-Apr-2001 Hits: 1502)
April 2002 Newsletter- This issue contains: Turn Your Fishing Snapshots into Works of Art, Catch your own minnows, End Weighting Means Control, Downloadable Lodge Guide and
2002 Online Fishing Tournament.
(Added: 6-May-2002 Hits: 1078)
April 2003 Newsleter- This issue contains: Discover the Joy of Small-Stream Trout, Boat Insurance Buying Tips, Featured Products Fish & Wildlife ID Cards & Videos.
(Added: 5-May-2003 Hits: 983)
Are Dirty Little Muskies Really That Different?- I've got a lot less experience on dirty water for muskies than I do clear water, but for the small amount of time I put in on dirty lakes compared to clear, my success rate is pretty good. If I dedicated equal time to each, I think I'd have just as many fish in the net from both by the end of the season.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 275)
Artificial Intelligence- Is it possible for man to create something smarter, possibly superior to humankind itself? In Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey”, HAL, a fabrication of bits and bytes, overran its makers. Alright, fair enough, that’s a science fiction reference, not breaking news on CNN. So let’s take it down a notch, to fishing. In an effort to make laboratory and factory creations look, feel, smell and taste like the real thing, manufacturers ceaselessly endeavor to duplicate nature.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 685)
August 2001 Newsletter- This issue contains: Knock on Docks for Bruiser Bass, Summer Whitefish, The Fishwitch Journal, *NEW MNR Regulations
Lodge Classifieds.
To view or print the issue as a Adobe PDF file (250K) use this link: http://ontariofishing.net/news/aug2001.pdf
(Added: 14-Aug-2001 Hits: 1287)
August 2002 Newsletter- This issue contains: Dunk the Weeds for Sunshine Walleye, Football Jigs for Bass, Annual battle against purple invader.
(Added: 18-Mar-2003 Hits: 891)
Back-To-Basics Pike- The northern pike - or water wolf in some circles - is a predatory fish that holds a healthy appetite, both for chowing down and battling tough. It can reach formidable weights, but even those "small" in size are capable of torrid line peels and acrobatic jumps.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 102)
Bait Buckets- It’s been a great day on the water. You’ve enjoyed some time with friends, caught a few fish, and now you’re back on shore loading up the gear. You grab your bait bucket out of the boat and notice that there are a few minnows left. The natural thing seems to be to dump them back into the lake right?
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 1672)
Baitfish and Fall Trolling For Walleye and Muskie- "You marking any bait?" is a popular question many anglers ask when talking about trolling for walleye or muskie. Finding baitfish schools being attacked by predators is an important angling skill for autumn trolling. I spoke with two well-known guides, a walleye expert and a muskie specialist, about fishing large pods of baitfish as a piece of fish-holding structure. What follows are some of their observations on the importance of baitfish and tips on autumn trolling strategies.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 170)
Biking For Bass- It had been a stressful day and I wanted to unwind outside and be near water. I didn't have enough time to take my boat and go fishing, so I opted for the next best thing. I grabbed a few lures, strapped my fishing rod to my bike, and peddled to a few shoreline fishing spots along a bike path
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 399)
Biting Mad - Bugs and Fishing- If you had to choose one thing most annoying during the fishing season many people would agree it’s a close toss-up between the dreaded mosquito and the pesky black fly. Between these two blood sucking insects many outings turn into a swat-fest. But there is help besides the commercial insect repellants that many people use.
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 2553)
Boat Cleaning 101- A fishing boat covets a great deal of pride and joy for its owner. Not only does it hold the greatest investment in this sport we enjoy, but it also becomes our “floating office” each time we step in and push away from the dock.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 105)
Boat Winterization Saves Headaches Next Spring- I don't want to be the bearer of bad news, but it's that time again. The leaves are starting to change colour, there is frost in the air, and snow in the weather forecast. It's time to start thinking about winterizing you boat. With a little time and effort you can keep your boat from becoming a maintenance nightmare next spring.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 876)
Breaking the Boat Out for Spring- I honestly think there's a direct correlation between melting snow and the increasing need for anglers to get on the water. Just consider how many countless hours you, or your friends, have spent sharpening hooks, organizing and reorganizing your tackle box, and the cash you spend on pre-season shopping for supplies. But here's a question: how many of you take the time to properly prepare your boat for the upcoming season?
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 398)
Bruiser Bass on Soft Plastic Jerks- By using the following techniques and tactics, knowing where to throw the bait, and by being willing to try something new, your bass angling success will increase greatly, and isn't that what every one of us is trying to accomplish?
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 2375)
Bucktail Jigging For Weed Walleye- When walleye head to the shade of the salad, or cruise along the edge of vegetation, a bucktail jig can be your greatest tool for seducing them to strike. Not only is the undulating hair a visual stimulant, but also the erratic cadence of the bait as it is ripped and jigged with vigor. Working bucktails is a different game than with regular jigs, but the technique speaks for itself with the big results you'll be rewarded with.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 401)
Bucktail Spinnerbait Restoration, Repair and Modification- Musky tackle takes a beating and I have yet to meet one angler who pampers their equipment. The fact is, baits wear down and eventually need maintenance to get them back into trophy-catching shape. This article will focus on repairing bucktail spinnerbaits, looking at: tying bucktail, replacing blades, hooks and wire bodies, and painting components. Let's start with the most complex, how-to tie bucktail.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 348)
Capitalizing On Those Winter Crappies- Crunch time has arrived for the ice-angling enthusiasts. With the walleye season shutting down shop across many of the lakes in Ontario, we can finally put all of our attention and effort into icing some slab crappies, at least for the next few weeks or so.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 403)
Cashing In On Kawartha Walleye- The Kawartha region of Southern Ontario rates as one of Canada's premier and most productive fisheries, and, although the angler to lake ratio can be high at times, the fishing is never short of phenomenal.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 2887)
Catch Your Own Minnows- Tired of spending good money to some convenience store owner for minnows that you know will be belly up in two hours? Well here's an idea you're sure to like, catch your own! It is relatively easy to do and the cost is nominal especially when you consider the price of store bought minnows these days. Catching your own minnows gives you another activity to enjoy in the great outdoors.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 1057)
Catching Walleye during a Spring Mayfly Hatch- Take a close look at a walleye's mouth and its teeth tell the story - they have evolved to feed on fish. Yet, walleye don't survive on fish alone. Ever the opportunists, these marble-eyed predators will snatch up meals whenever they get the chance, and there are few underwater appetizers as easy for them to eat as mayfly nymphs.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 378)
Catching Walleye during a Summer Mayfly Hatch- In an earlier article, I discussed how walleye can aggressively feed on mayfly nymphs as they're recovering from the stresses of spawning and the winter. Although, walleye binge-feeding tapers come summer, they still target nymphs when available. Catching walleye during summer mayfly hatches can be more difficult than in spring, but can still be accomplished.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 382)
Chasin Walleyes- More people want to know how to catch walleye than any other game fish. Also known as pickerel, they are often difficult to locate and land. The challenge they present makes fishing them successfully an angling accomplishment.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 3273)
Check your equipment before you head out- After any winter season, but especially after the overly long winter, anglers are itching for some quality time on the water. But, after about six months of inactivity, many anglers forget what is needed to get themselves and their equipment into tiptop shape for opening day. Here are just a few tips in anticipation of the fishing season.
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 1207)
Checking the Ice Fishing Wish List- With the days growing colder and snow already falling in some parts of North America, ice fishing season looks like it will be upon us shortly. Time to lug out last seasons gear from the shed or basement, and organize it in anticipation of that first step out onto hard water.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 650)
Choosing The Right Fishing Line- The strongest, and most fragile link you have between yourself and a fish is undoubtedly your fishing line. Choosing an inferior product in order to save a few bucks, or picking the wrong style for the type of fishing you do, can lead to heartbreak when out on the water. So what are the best lines to choose and when should you use them? The following will hopefully explain the subtleties of the common "fishing line."
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 972)
Choosing the Right Lodge to Suit Your Needs- For anglers of all ages, nothing beats the thrill of experiencing the wonders and opportunities that a fishing lodge has to offer. Whether you are searching for "limitless days of fish" or some "rest and relaxation," there is a lodge available that is right for you. But how do you choose the perfect lodge and what are the criteria to follow when making that all-important decision? Follow these tips and advice and be prepared to stumble upon your own wilderness utopia.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 690)
Cold Fronts and Deep Weedlines for Largemouth- Cold fronts will challenge your angling skills. This is mainly because fronts send most fish into a negative mood, and largemouth bass are no exception. To successfully fool largies, you need to learn to recognize what stage of a front you're fishing and match your presentation accordingly. In most cases, fishing deep water is the best strategy once a front has passed.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 265)
Cold Water Pike- Esox luscious. The Northern pike. The water wolf. Whatever the name, the attitude is the same; MEAN! The cold and ice only seem to add to the pike's cranky personality; it dares you to try and yank it through a hole and pull it out of its turf. In the winter, pike are active and not as finicky as other species of fish; they will readily hit your bait and will fight like a bear when hooked.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 829)
Confidence on the Water- Sit back and think for a minute about the specific spots that you fish; the lures that you use; and the techniques that you fish them with. Take a moment to ask yourself why you do the things that you do while you're fishing. In the end, all of the answers come back to one thing: confidence. You're on that body of water to catch fish and these are the techniques that you trust to help you connect with those fish.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 407)
Crank Up That Next Smallie- Crankbaits have a universal appeal when it comes to luring in smallmouth bass. Whether they represent a baitfish or crawdad to the opportunistic bass, the end result is always the same - another bass in the boat. Although crankbaits come in hundreds of styles and shapes, a select few can get the job done right when applied correctly. Utilize these tips and tricks the next time you hit the water, and have fun cranking in bass after bass.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 759)
Crappie Fishing- There were already a few anglers jigging as I pulled my hut up to the community crappie hole. "How's the fishing?" I asked. "Slow. We haven't got any yet," answered one angler. I walked several yards away from the group, drilled a hole and settled into my hut.
(Added: 7-Feb-2007 Hits: 339)
Crappies - the BIG Slabs!- As spring slowly makes its appearance, thoughts of opening day crappie waken me from my hibernation and begin to make my pulse quicken. Although their name might be a turn-off, these wonderful little fish have everything an angler could want - they are fairly easy to catch, they're feisty on ultra-light equipment and they taste delicious in the pan.
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 1721)
Creepy Crawlies- The Ultimate Overlooked Baits for Icefishing - The first time I heard about using maggots for icefishing was in a story about how some hard-core ice anglers have been known to keep maggots in their mouths while fishing, to keep the bait warm and alive. While that may be a little too serious for some ice fishermen, maggots, as well as waxworms, mealworms and other such critters, what I affectionately refer to as "creepy crawlies," are an effective yet often overlooked bait for icefishing.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 441)
De-Mystifying Fly Fishing- I remember the first time I saw someone fly fishing. I think I was five years old. My father, my sister and I had back packed to a remote alpine lake. My trusty Zebco with the closed face push button casting reel, cork bobber and jar of Puatzke’s, among my gear I couldn’t live without. Positioned on a log vigilently eyeing my bobber for movement, a one-man raft paddled past, and in no time the occupant was making wild movements with the longest fishing pole ever.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 388)
De-winterizing Your Boat- Waking up your boat after a long hibernation is an anticipated chore we all eagerly await. There's no better feeling come spring than hearing the engine smoothly purr for the first time - ready to breathe life into another full season on the water.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 179)
Dead-Bait Tactics for Hardwater Pike- Snow-covered landscapes and frozen bodies of water have a deliberate way of changing a pike anglers' methods and routines. Gone are the oversized spinnerbaits, cranks and spoons - the familiar tools of warm weather fishing - and out come the tip ups and quick strike rigs. Match these up with a variety of dead baits, and you'll be well on your way to a season full of cold days and red-hot northern pike.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 397)
December 2001 Newsletter- This issue is all about ICE FISHING and contains: Preparing for Ice Fishing, High Percentage Spots for Early Ice 'Eyes, ICE, The Dragonfire Lure
FishWitch Journal, Fishing Humour, Lodge Classifieds.
(Added: 6-May-2002 Hits: 825)
December 2002 Newsletter- This issue contains: Choosing the right fishing line, Preparing your gear for winter, Featured Fish Recipes.
(Added: 18-Mar-2003 Hits: 666)
Deep Trolling for Musky- Trolling for musky is a productive tactic throughout the season, but it is in the fall when this method lives up to its reputation: big musky! As water bodies cool and fish put on the feed bag, trolling deep-diving crankbaits is an excellent technique for increasing your chances of landing a trophy. Understanding fall musky behavior, using a strategy to target deep fish, and having proper equipment are three critical components to fall fishing success.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 877)
Deep-Water Jigging for Smallies- The fall colours were in full effect, dotting the shoreline on a crisp, October morning. I was fishing for deep-water smallmouth around rocks and boulders in 20-30 feet of water. I jiggled my tube jig along, paused, and then felt a slight tick. I set the hook and the fight began. The three pound smallie bulldogged for a few minutes, but eventually got in net range and was landed. After the hook was popped out, the chunky specimen swam away strongly after being released.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 378)
Dirty Grips Come Clean- Have the cork handles on your fishing rods started to show their age through wear and tear, dirty hands or even dirtier water?
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 1277)
Does Size Really Matter?- No matter what kind of fish an angler targets, deciding on the appropriate size of bait or lure to toss can often be a difficult decision. Whether it is fishing for largemouth bass, walleye, musky, or even perch, the question always comes up: "What size lure should I use?"
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 382)
Dunk the Weeds for Sunshine Walleye- Hot, penetrating sunshine and the sensitive eyes of the walleye can make for a frustrating and energy-draining day out on the water for the exuberant angler. Fish become scarce during these trying times and without the proper locations or techniques needed to find and catch these fish, a fisherman's moral can reach an all-time low. Green, healthy weeds, a handful of jigs and a technique called "dunking" are all that are needed to find success during these "dog days" of summer.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 734)
Early Season Longlining For Trout- Temperature, Tackle and Techniques
Your boat works around a small, rocky knob along the shoreline, and the warm, offshore breeze immediately dries up. With no more chop music on the hull, the only sounds are songbirds flitting in the naked hardwoods and melt water's crisp daytrip down the land and back into the lake. Shade from big cedars, pines and sharp overhangs has kept snow alive in brilliant patches amongst the black, grey and pink rock. Light jackets and sweaters instantly come off.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 426)
Eastern Ontario Threesome- Skootamatta, Big Gull and Kashwakamak Lakes. The heat of the September morning was stifling as I rumbled down the busy 417 Highway, the Ottawa landscape fading from view with my sight set westward. While my trusty aluminum followed closely behind - overburdened with rods, tackle and luggage - thoughts of feisty fish began to slowly dance within my head.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 89)
Eating Your Catch - From Landing Net to Table- There's nothing more fulfilling, both to the taste buds and the tummy, than that of freshly caught fish. Whether they are cooked over the open flames of a campfire, pan-fried in the kitchen, or baked on the BBQ, the tempting aromas and mouth-watering flavours are just rewards for a hard day spent on the water. Add to that the inherent health benefits that can be derived from regularly eating our finny friends, and you've got yourself a true winner for the dinner table
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 83)
End Weighting Means Control- Control wins in NASCAR. The ability to draft and “trade paint” while jockeying for position. The dominance of one team over another. Control is an underlying force that breeds success in everything we do, fishing included. We see it in skilled fly anglers as they strip line and precariously place poppers in the pads. In seasoned jiggers, as they deftly tick lead across rocks and timber without snagging, yet remain able to decipher the slight nip of a walleye.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 590)
Exploring Ontario- Exploring the news, people, places and things that Ontarians care about.
(Added: 16-Jul-2001 Hits: 1179)
Fall Lures for Musky- If I have to put my money on one lure that will consistently catch muskies during the fall, the choice would be easy; the jerkbait would get the nod every day of the week. Follow these tips and techniques in your search for this "elusive" fish, and, whether you're looking for your first fish, or your one hundredth, the results will certainly amaze you.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 1838)
Fall Muskie Casting- Fall is a transition period and as autumn leaves change colours, many anglers switch almost exclusively to trolling for muskies from late September to ice-up. Yet the fall still holds plenty of casting opportunities and it's the season for trophy fish. Casting in fall conditions is tough going; the trick is using effective baits for the cold water conditions. Here's an overview of some top fall casting baits with some tips from three Ontario, muskie anglers.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 283)
Fall River Walleye Tactics- It was mid October and I was river fishing for walleye. The shoreline trees still held some leaves, but plenty had fallen over the last couple of weeks. I bounced a jig off bottom and then felt a light tick. Setting the hook, a good-sized walleye was soon in the net and one of many I caught that day.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 186)
Fall Time Means Plump Walleye- As the leaves slowly begin to change colour and the nights become frosty, walleye anglers in the know begin to get their tackle ready in anticipation of guaranteed action. Fall is the number one period for catching LARGE walleye, especially those that push the scale down to double digits! By following a few simple rules, catching trophy walleye during the harvest moon can be as easy as 1-2-3, and let's face it, what can be better than that in the game of fishing?
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 786)
Fall Walleye Fishing- Walleye fishing in the cooler weather of autumn is probably second best only to early spring, although there are anglers who would argue this point. Early season walleye fishing is great to say the least, but try a night in the fall when you shiver with cold and excitement as the line goes tight and the fish takes off for deeper water. Fall fishing is hard to beat for great action
(Added: 14-Sep-2001 Hits: 1594)
Feb. 2003 Newsletter- This issue contains: Pounding the Panfish of Winter, Will Wegman (MNR) Interview, Featured Tackle Products.
(Added: 18-Mar-2003 Hits: 713)
February 2001 Newsletter- This issue contains: Ice fishing for perch, Ice fishing safety, The case of the missing minnow bucket and Classifieds. To view this issue as a website use this link:
http://ontariofishing.net/news/newsfeb2001-1.html
To view or print the issue as a Adobe PDF file (171K) use this link:
http://ontariofishing.net/news/feb2001.pdf
(Added: 2-Apr-2001 Hits: 1046)
February 2002 Newsletter- This issue contains: Choosing the Right Lodge to Suit Your Needs, Winter Whitefish, Spinnerbaits for Musky!
Fishing Humor, Lodge Classifieds,
Downloadable Lodge Guide.
(Added: 6-May-2002 Hits: 868)
Fillet Knife Facts- There's nothing more satisfying to an angler than enjoying a home-cooked meal of fresh caught fish. The aromas, the taste, and that prerequisite feeling of fullness should be icing on the cake to an otherwise productive day spent on the water. Now, actually catching those fish is always a hit and miss possibility. Using the right tools to prepare your catch, however, should essentially be a no-brainer.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 416)
Find Fish Fast on a New Lake- Nothing beats the thrill and excitement of launching your boat onto a brand-new lake. Everything looks so good as you start up the outboard, but where in the world should you start? No matter what species of fish you are after, by being prepared and following some rules, you can find fish fast and easily. (And that's about as fun as anything when it comes to fishing!)
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 816)
Fish Fast First to Ice More Winter Walleye- As anglers it's easy for us to fall into the pattern of ice fishing slowly for walleye. Granted, certain conditions demand lethargic presentations to get bites. Mid-winter doldrums, cold front weather systems and high fishing pressure are a few examples. Yet, fishing jigging baits at a faster pace can attract more aggressive walleye. With the right kinds of lures you can fish quickly, but add finesse moves when needed.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 188)
Fish on the Plate- If there's one thing I've discovered after spending all these years out on the water, it's that fresh fish sure tastes good. No matter what specie it is, be it bass, walleye or crappie, the tempting aroma and mouth-watering flavour they exhibit might be the closest thing to pure perfection that I can think of.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 378)
Fishing and the Wind- Put up your hand if you enjoy fishing in the wind? Hmm, not much of a response there. This comes as no surprise, as for the most part, anglers the world over absolutely abhor fishing in the wind. What other condition accounts for out-of-control drifts, crashing waves, bird nest lines and energy sapping chaos?
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 347)
Fishing Cover- As a means to hide and escape predators, or as a spot to ambush prey, sunken logs, weed beds, rock piles, docks or artificial reefs provide shelter for fish and, for anglers, these spots are great places to try your luck.
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 1148)
Fishing Resolutions for 2002- As the New Year is finally upon us, it is time, once again, to make some resolutions for the seasons ahead. Anglers may not be so inclined to lose weight or quit smoking, however, there are some fishing resolutions that will make each of us a more proficient and well-rounded fisherman.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 611)
Fishing Rod Totes and Carrying Systems- A common trait among anglers is the enthusiasm we share when it comes to buying rods. Rods for spinning, baitcasting and trolling applications. Rods for jigs, topwaters, cranks and worms. If truth were known, we really have more rods than we can shake a stick at!
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 358)
Fishing the waters of Callander Bay- Callander Bay is a bay approximately 3 miles wide by 4 miles long. It is well protected by a group of islands on the west end of the bay. The rest of Lake Nipissing is over 40 miles long. You are able to get out fishing in any weather by fishing around these islands.
(Added: 13-Jun-2001 Hits: 1199)
Fishing Thermoclines- Many anglers will advise beginners to look for structure when seeking fish. This good advice but it should be followed with the word “however.” As well as orienting to underwater structure where food and shelter can be found, fish also have temperature comfort zones. Some fish prefer colder temperature and low light conditions while others prefer the warmth of the sun.
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 1250)
Five Things To Try This Season- Open water fishing is just around the corner! Before every new, open-water season starts, I normally set an informal list of things I want to try. Some items on the list quickly turn into time well spent, some don't, and others longer to bear fruit. At any rate, listed below are a few ideas that have really worked out well. With any luck, one or more might work for you, or get you thinking of a list of your own.
(Added: 12-Apr-2007 Hits: 381)
Five Tips for Buying Boat Insurance- Buying boat insurance can be challenging for any boater. That's because unlike auto insurance, boat insurance policies are not standardized-coverage can vary widely for the same boat depending on who sold the policy and how informed a buyer you are. But the smart boater can make the right insurance choices with these "Top Five Tips for Buying Boat Insurance".
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 716)
Flippin' & Pitchin' Strategies for Untapped Bass- To the novice angler, bass fishing can be a very complex, and intimidating game. Tackle store shelves are literally filled with a myriad of lures, which all have different applications, depending on the given situation. Two techniques, however, that are often under utilized, yet rate as proven big bass producers, are flippin' and pitchin'.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 1420)
Floating for Spring Steel- Of the various methods employed to catch migratory rainbow trout, or steelhead, in the tributary rivers, creeks and streams that flow into the Great Lakes, float fishing is likely the most popular. Float fishing allows the angler to present a bait at any level of the water column, including in the prime fish-holding zone located within 18 inches or so of the bottom. But these areas also tend to snag hooks and sinkers.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 435)
Fly Fusion- Canada's leading national fly fishing magazine. Visit Fly Fusion online for more information.
(Added: 17-May-2005 Hits: 474)
Fooling the Largemouth of Fall- Hunting trophy largemouth can be one heck of an addictive sport. The pursuit demands patience, stamina, and the utmost in determination. And although wading through two and three-pounders is fun unto itself - it is sliding your net under that rare giant of a fish that truly makes this obsession worthwhile.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 77)
Football Season is already underway- Bass have been eating football – “roller” – jigs for years. In fact, the lures gained tremendous popularity in the early 90’s, but have since lost some identity. These days, most guys lump bass jigs together, labeling them ‘jigs & pigs’, not paying much attention to specific designs.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 598)
From The Truck to The Fishing Hole and Back- Some fishing gets better and better the later and later fall goes on. I'm not talking about the trips where you might pack an extra sweater or rain suit in the weeks after Labour Day. To me, late fall means trailering your boat on roads that may be snow-covered or icy, really cold weather and sometimes, really rough water.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 376)
Gear and Gadgets to Maximize Your Fishing Success- Let's face it: fishing can be a tough game to figure out sometimes. With so many variables that can alter your success rate, be it weather, lure selection, fish activity, (or lack thereof) and mechanical failure, anything that can put the odds in your favour should never be overlooked.
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 1535)
Get Glowing This Ice Season- Glow baits are not new to fishing and color patterns have improved these baits in recent years. I concentrated on using new-generation glow baits the last two ice seasons and have noticed an increase in my overall catch. Fish see these baits easier and I'm convinced the glow features of small baits have helped me coax negative or neutral mood fish to bite.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 370)
Getting a Child Hooked on Fishing- Angling is a sport that greatly enriches one's life. We can all still remember that first fish that tugged on our line, the spilt can of worms, or even the tadpoles dancing in the shallows. That infectious smile we wore all day - beaming with pride, joy and a sense of accomplishment. Taking a child fishing is a wonderful way to get a youngsters love for the outdoors started. By following a few simple rules, you can make the day one that the both of you will remember for many years to come
(Added: 12-Apr-2007 Hits: 410)
Getting Started In Tournament Bass Fishing- To many weekend and recreational anglers, tournament fishing means expensive entry fees, high-performance bass boats and high-caliber contestants. This, however, is not the case at all. Tournament fishing is a sport everyone can enjoy and, with so many to choose from nowadays, there is definitely a tournament out there which is right for you.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 1106)
Give Dull Lures a "Spit and Shine"- Lurking deep in everyone's tackle box are lures that have seen better days. Each of these, however, can be brought back to life for pennies a piece, and will become the lures that outperform all others.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 1402)
Go on the Deadbait Diet for Trophy Pike!- Most people’s New Year’s Resolution is losing twenty pounds. Once the ice is safe and the season opens, I’m normally out on the big bays and shoals trying to gain twenty pounds. Twenty pound-plus pike, that is. Early January produces more pike over 42 inches for me than all other months of the year combined. And I catch the majority of them fishing deadbait under tip-ups.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 382)
Got Scent?- There are many different commercial fish attractants. From aerosol cans to squeeze tubes and jars to jellies, tackle store shelves are literally soaked with a wide range of these products.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 85)
Got the Cold Front Blues?"- We've all had to face it at one time or another - waking up on the day of your fishing trip to a chill in the air and bluebird skies to boot. What you are experiencing is the passing of a cold front, a weather occurrence that can shut down fish, and cause severe headaches for an angler. Fishing will be tough - there's no two ways about it - but it is possible to put some fins in the boat if you are prepared to alter your delivery.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 430)
Great Ice Fishing Gadgets- Every year dozens of new ice fishing products hit the walls of tackle shops. Yet when it comes to getting gear for the hard-water season, you don't only have to shop in fishing stores. In fact, many of the staple pieces of gear I use for safety and comfort reasons I bought at camping and outdoor shops. Here are just a few of my personal favourites.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 394)
High Percentage Spots for Early Ice 'Eyes- Like a puppy staring out the window yearning for its owner, so it goes with walleye anglers awaiting first ice. They're weepy eyed, salivating, possibly drooling, and giddy when walkable ice finally forms. There's no secret as to why, either. The fishing's just that darn good.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 590)
How to Find Largemouth Bass on a New Lake- Occasionally your buddy and you decide to fish a new small body of water out of your home area. What is the best approach? Where do you fish? What lures do you use? What is the best presentation? Bass are the same coast to coast and they follow patterns they repeat over and over. Bass always need food, sanctuary, a comfort zone and a proper oxygen account
(Added: 14-Aug-2001 Hits: 1758)
How to fish for Crappie- Black crappie, also called slabs, are usually small fish that can be taken in large numbers. The size of these fish goes from about three inches up to around ten, with a few that are twelve inches or over.
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 1567)
How to Prepare a Shorelunch- No fishing trip is complete without a shorelunch while out on the lake. Done right, it can be the best meal you will eat all year. Done wrong, however, and you'll leave feeling hungry and frustrated with the time you've wasted. As a full time fishing guide, I've prepared my share of shorelunches and have perfected the art of a well-executed and tasty meal for my guests. Use these tips to ensure that your next shorelunch is cooked to perfection and a memorable experience for everyone.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 273)
Hypothermia- If you are one of the many outdoor people who take advantage of the winter months, there is one thing all of us should be able to recognize and address: HYPOTHERMIA. Hypothermia occurs when the ability of the body to produce heat is less than the amount of body heat loss. Hypothermia affects the whole body. This happens when the body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. In the cold winter months clothing, proper foot wear, and head covering are absolute necessities.
(Added: 13-Dec-2001 Hits: 704)
I Tried Fluorocarbon Leaders- About this time last year, I decided to really start experimenting with fluorocarbon leaders. I wanted to see how well the stuff held up, and if there really were any noticeable advantages. I picked up a few spools from different manufacturers, and started tying them and fishing them right away. Once muskie season opens, that's all I fish for. But from ice-in until the end of June, I used my new leaders for everything from lakers to crappie, from four to eighty pound test.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 362)
Ice- There are amazingly attractive scenes to see during our Northern winter. One need only look out the window to feel the tranquil stillness of new fallen snow. You will find windows burnished with many complex designs and different forms of icicles on homes.
(Added: 13-Dec-2001 Hits: 707)
Ice Fishing for Perch- To some people it is always a sad occasion to put the boat to bed, and bid farewell to the open-water season, knowing that it's a long time till the robin's make their return. Perch through the ice is one of life's great pleasures. For many seasoned ice anglers, it is a back to basics approach to fishing; standard and simple rigs, large schools of fish and delicious fillets for the dinner table. For the beginner, it means relatively easy fishing with the possibility of 50 or 100 fish days!
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 1084)
Ice Fishing Perch Pointers- Targeting perch through the ice is one of my favourite types of hard-water action. Not only are perch relatively easy to catch and often eager to bite, they are one of the best tasting freshwater fish. To help boost your perch fishing results this ice season, here are some tips to put more jumbos on the ice.
(Added: 12-Apr-2007 Hits: 383)
Ice Fishing Primer- Winter "Hard Water" fishing in Ontario Province ice capped lakes and ponds is some of the finest in Canada. After frigid temperatures create safe ice conditions, you'll find hundreds of anglers dotting the frozen surfaces of waters where ice fishing is permitted new
(Added: 13-Dec-2001 Hits: 954)
Ice Out Trout- You’re in your own little world, your eyes are focused. You wait patiently, yet posed to strike. As that little clear float drifts down the river, it rockets under and you set the hook. This is when you feel those head shakes that you have waited all winter for. It’s time for “ice out trout.”
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 78)
Ice Safety Essentials: Myths and Self-Rescue Information- Tragically, every year over 30 Canadians die in ice related incidents. When ice fishing this year, make sure you're prepared with the following information on common ice myths and self-rescue methods. Remember, ice is never 100% safe, so exercise caution at all times.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 169)
Icing Rainbow Trout- Every year thousands of rainbow trout are stocked in many lakes. Targeting these chrome-coloured fish makes for exciting ice angling. These worthy adversaries will test your angling skills, demanding finesse presentations at times and peeling line with bursts of speed once hooked. Not to mention they're darn tasty on the dinner table. Here’s where to find them and how to hook them this ice season.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 96)
In Search Of Quality Fishing Rods- We’ve all at one time or another been faced with disappointment following the purchase a conventional fishing rod. The information overview in this article is being offered in the hope that you can make an educated purchase in the future, walk away completely satisfied and feel you have some of the information that you require to make the purchase.
(Added: 28-Feb-2002 Hits: 1359)
Inside: with Ministry of Natural Resource's Information Assistant Wil Wegma- Wil Wegman states, "Its hard to argue against my wonderful wife's keen observation that my entire life seems to be focused around fishing". I talk fishing at work, I fish at least 100 times a year. I write about fishing as a freelance writer, I give fishing seminars as an angling instructor, and I am kept busy with fishing related subjects as the Conservation Director for the Ontario B.A.S.S. Federation. Basically, I sleep, breath and eat fishing".
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 594)
January 2002 Newsletter- This issue contains: Fishing Resolutions for 2002, Artificial Intelligence, Lake Simcoe Lake Trout: Evidence of Natural Reproduction, Fishing Humour, Steelhead ProShop,
Lodge Classifieds.
(Added: 6-May-2002 Hits: 907)
January 2003 Newsletter- This issue contains: Checking the Ice Fishing Wish List, Cold Water Pike, Featured Fish Recipes.
(Added: 18-Mar-2003 Hits: 642)
Jigging Early Summer Pike- Yes, my pike box is full of the same large jerkbaits, big thumper spoons and wild looking spinnerbaits as yours probably is. And yes, hitting a big pike casting one of these classic lures is a rush when it happens. But bigger fish are in and out of shallower casting depths faster than most fishermen realize, and one of the best lures to catch them on a consistent basis is also the cheapest: the jig!
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 333)
July 2001 Newsletter- This issue contains: Gear and Gadgets, Crankbait Fishing for Walleye, The Fishwitch Journal, Lodge Classifieds, downloadable Lodge Guide, as well as a new Comic from Richard Stubler.
To view or print the issue as a Adobe PDF file (175K) use this link:
http://ontariofishing.net/news/july2001.pdf
(Added: 14-Aug-2001 Hits: 951)
July 2002 Newsletter- This issue contains: The Basic Lures for Lunker Largemouth, Ontario Family Fishing Weekend, Watch those fingers; hooks and teeth can hurt!
(Added: 18-Mar-2003 Hits: 730)
June 2001 Newsletter- This issue contains: When the walleye just wont bite, Where the walleye come from, The Fishwitch Journal, MNR to Restore Lake Trout, Classifieds
As well as a new Comic section from Richard Stubler. To view or print the issue as a Adobe PDF file (250K) use this link: http://ontariofishing.net/news/june2001.pdf
(Added: 14-Aug-2001 Hits: 975)
June 2002 Newsletter- This issue contains: Vertical Jigging for Suspended Smallies, Salt Water Fishing in the Ottawa River, amBASSadors Cup To Return To Sparrow Lake and more!
(Added: 5-Jun-2002 Hits: 915)
Keep Your Catch Fresh When Working the Ice- Ice holds many wonders for those willing to auger through its outer crust. For some it is the lure of frantically running to an upright flag, unaware of the size of fish that tripped it below. Others find solace in the peace and serenity that a portable hut provides them on a snowy winters day. But if you're like me, the greatest treasure the ice conceals is the bountiful and tasty fish that swim beneath it, ready to be buttered and pan fried after a long day spent angling.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 156)
Keep Your Catch Fresh When Working the Ice- Ice holds many wonders for those willing to auger through its outer crust. For some it is the lure of frantically running to an upright flag, unaware of the size of fish that tripped it below. Others find solace in the peace and serenity that a portable hut provides them on a snowy winters day. But if you're like me, the greatest treasure the ice conceals is the bountiful and tasty fish that swim beneath it, ready to be buttered and pan fried after a long day spent angling.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 178)
Knock on docks for bruiser bass- - Finding bass on any given lake can often be a challenging task. With so many places to occupy in a body of water, anglers may spend more time looking for fish than actually fishing for them. Dock fishing is a sure-fire tactic to locate fish that can produce bass of braggin' proportions. Knowing which are the best docks to look for and what to throw under them will be the only knowledge necessary to prosper on these man-made structures.
(Added: 14-Aug-2001 Hits: 969)
Lake Trout Fishing- With lake trout season almost upon us, it's time to explore some tactics for catching them. Have you ever had the pleasure of landing one of these great fighting trout on a spinner rig?
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 1884)
Largemouth Bass on Plastics- A few good places to look for bass include weedbeds gravel shoals with cover, drop-offs near the shoreline, and of course, under piers or docks. Bass will hole up anywhere they have both food and cover, even under moored boats
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 959)
Largemouth By The Light Of The Moon- Working the nightshift in search of big bucketmouths can be a profitable and exciting endeavour for those anglers looking for a new twist in the bassin' game. Fishing under the moon comes with its own set of rules and techniques because once the sun sets, you really are smack down in the middle of the largemouth's playing field. Come and explore the graveyard shift and discover all the action that you've been missing
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 593)
Largies on Rocks - The Flipping Jig Solution- Largemouth bass and green vegetation have become a unanimous equation for locating and catching fish. Toss in some docks, laydowns and slop, and the basics of the bassin' game are seemingly covered. Or are they?
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 400)
Last Chance Jumbos- Soon, it’ll be rotten out there. Not rancid like spoiled produce, but soft and dark nonetheless. I’m talking about the ice. It’s thick and resolute now, but it won’t last forever, actually, scarcely longer than a few weeks, less in some areas. Fortunately, though, ice fishing’s swan song is a cheery tune; one fraught with foraging fish and wonderful weather. And lead vocals are belted out by my favorites, jumbo perch.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 616)
Late Ice Opportunities- Windy, minus twenty and whiteout snow squalls. This is what every ice fisherman puts themselves through during the winter months except for March and into early April for some parts of the province. This is when the weather is changing; the sun beams down with unbelievable heat and the fish are often on a feeding frenzy.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 75)
Late Season Steelies- The late fall is often looked upon as the slowest time for fishing as it is kind of a transition period. The warm water species have shut down until springtime and the ice-fishing season hasn't quite started yet. Even though it is technically still fall, the cold days of winter can definitely be felt in the air, which can scare away a lot of anglers who don't want to bundle up and battle the cold north winds.
(Added: 6-Jan-2005 Hits: 471)
Late Winter Walleye Through The Ice- If you are feeling the mid-winter blahs of walleye fishing, and sense that the fish must hibernate during this slow period, take heart, as some of the best hard-water angling is just around the corner. Late winter walleye react in many different ways in comparison to earlier in the season, and their aggressive nature, typical holding areas, and plentiful numbers make this time of year your best bet to be out on the ice.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 836)
Launching Your Boat - Tips, Tricks and Etiquette- With the open water season finally upon us in all parts of North America, its time once again, to pull the cover off the boat and make that fateful trip down to the launch ramp - or does it have to be fateful venture? Launching a boat can be an enjoyable, easy and "fright-free" experience, and with a little pre-planning and paying attention to detail, you will relish the trip to the ramp, and in no time become a "master launcher."
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 1155)
Live-Bait and Hook-Selection Primer- Since the inception of angling, live bait has been a hands-down winner. No matter what lure or fly you tie on your line, duplicating nature is a formidable task. Although an artificial lure might resemble and even act like the true prey of fish, the texture, taste, and movement of real food can seldom be beat.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 422)
Local Lure Manufacturers- I was one of many anglers wandering the isles at The Valley Fishing and Outdoors Show in Carp, Ontario in early April. I enjoy going to shows to check out the latest tackle in anticipation for the upcoming season. What really caught my eye this year were some of the Ontario-made, hand-poured plastic baits available. There was an array of baits in many of the booths. Tubes, worms, shads, craws and many others were available in various colour combinations and sizes.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 385)
Local Lure Manufacturers Part 2- Last year I wrote an article for this newsletter on local lure makers. Since penning that piece, I've continued to look for even more great bait makers residing close to my home town. Here's the scoop on three Ottawa-area lure makers you might want to consider contacting to fill a void in your tackle box for the upcoming season.
(Added: 12-Apr-2007 Hits: 293)
Make a Change this Bass Season- With the season scant weeks away, an excitement is building for those that have a profound love for bass. I myself make no excuse for my affinity to these green and brown fish - a specie that can tug, tussle and splash with the best of them. But how many of us are in a rut when it comes to chasing this pugnacious adversary? For those that throw the same bait, to the same patch of pads, with that same ten-year-old spinning combo, then this fishing makeover is tailor-made for you.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 290)
Make Some Fishing Resolutions- With another year firmly upon us, non-committal promises to lose weight, quit smoking or eat healthier, quickly, and for the most part definitively, run out of steam. Although we struggle with these goals year after year, proposing and adhering to fishing resolutions will most certainly bring about the positive results you desire. (And they are not all that hard to stick with.)
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 183)
March 2001 Newsletter- This issue contains: Ice Fishing For Walleye, The Fishing News Ceases Publication , One Way to Fillet a Pike and Classifieds
To view or print the issue as a Adobe PDF file (160K) use this link:
http://ontariofishing.net/news/mar2001.pdf
(Added: 2-Apr-2001 Hits: 896)
March 2002 Newsletter- Find Fish Fast on a New Lake, Rock Piles, Feed a musky a spoon! , Fishing Humor, Lodge Classifieds and more!
(Added: 6-May-2002 Hits: 721)
March 2003 Newsletter- This issue contains: Seven Tricks for Improving Your Bassin' Results, Last Chance Perch Jumbos, Featured Tackle Products - Len Thompson Spoons.
(Added: 18-Mar-2003 Hits: 693)
May 2001 Newsletter- This issue contains: Crappies, The Fishwitch Journal, The Stocker Wobbler, Record Crappie Caught, Classifieds.
To view or print the issue as a Adobe PDF file (250K) use this link:
http://ontariofishing.net/news/may2001.pdf
(Added: 1-May-2001 Hits: 817)
May 2002 Newsletter- This issue contains: Timely Tactics for 'Negative-Mood' Largemouth, Spoon Fed Pike, Panfish on Floats, Lodge Classifieds.
(Added: 6-May-2002 Hits: 760)
May 2003 Newsletter- This issue contains: Playing the "Size" Game With Musky, Throttling Back for the Spring Walleye Attack,
Featured Products - Montauk Mikes Lure & Precision Attractants.
(Added: 5-May-2003 Hits: 750)
Monster Pike- So you have always wanted to catch a monster Northern Pike and you don't live north of the 45th parallel or have the money for an expensive northern fly in trip? Now, I don't mean fish of 10 or 15 pounds. We are talking specimens approaching 20 or even 30 pounds or more!
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 77)
Multi-Task Fishing Outfits- Don't worry, this article has nothing to do with updating your boat wardrobe or shopping for fishing clothes! Outfits just refers to rod and reel combos. And in this case, each is worth carrying or investing in, because they're useful and really versatile, no matter where you fish or what you fish for. If you're into golf, these are the utility wedges. If you're a handyman, they're the multi-tools. What they lack in single-use perfection, they make up for in adaptability.
(Added: 12-Apr-2007 Hits: 351)
Muskies and Reefs Find A Place To Cast This Summer.- I grew up calling them 'shoals' but everyone's got their own name for this kind underwater structure: humps, bumps, bars and of course, reefs. They're classic muskie spots and they're as unique as the lakes they're found in. No two are built exactly the same, but good ones just seem to be good ones no matter where you fish. There are also reefs that just never produce, sometimes within a few cast lengths of ones that consistently do.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 330)
Muskies on Top- In the angling world the mighty muskie reigns supreme, conjuring up images of razor-sharp teeth, truly immense size and extraordinary power.
For the avid anglers who are part of the muskie fraternity, fishing for these giants has become an obsessive trait that has literally turned into a way of life.
(Added: 9-May-2007 Hits: 343)
Net Landing Fall Trophies- With fall fishing in full swing, chances of landing a chunky trophy are better than ever. As water temperatures drop and anglers bundle up, hand-landing is less of an option and nets become crucial. Yet, having a net is not enough. Proper technique and communication are crucial to ensuring a quick landing and healthy recovery of released fish.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 578)
New Spring, Same Old Stuff For Pike- Is there anything better than having a thick, mad pike on the end of your line when the trees are just starting to bud? Compared to those eighteen inch winter rods, feeling that seven footer buck around is great. Some of the biggest pike of the year are catchable right now.
(Added: 9-May-2007 Hits: 268)
Night Trolling for Walleye- The green, red and white navigation lights from other boats slowly glided through the darkness, setting the ambiance for another night fishing adventure. Within a few minutes of starting a trolling run, I connected with a fierce and feisty walleye that hammered my shallow-running minnow bait. Through the flashlight beam the fish became visible.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 396)
Night-Bite Winter Crappie- The sun about to hit the tree tops. I was sitting on a great crappie lake, charging up my glow jig and waiting for the start of the night bite. It didn’t take long and the action was fast and furious for just under an hour.
While many anglers focus on walleye, crappie are another species worth chasing at twilight. Here’s what you need to know about this productive technique to catch more paper-mouths.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 70)
November 2001 Newsletter- This issue is all about ICE FISHING and contains: Ice Fishing Primer, Ice Fishing with Kids, Reflecting on the season, Fishing Humour, Lodge Classifieds, As well as a new Comic from Richard Stubler.
(Added: 6-May-2002 Hits: 632)
November 2002 Newsletter- This issue contains: Twitching Your Way to a Bass Bonanza, Spicing Up for Autumn Appetites, Boat Winterization Saves Headaches Next Spring, Featured Outdoor Products.
(Added: 18-Mar-2003 Hits: 607)
October 2001 Newsletter- This issue is our biggest ever and contains: Fall Walleye Fishing, Fall Bass Fishing, Fall Musky Fishing, FishWitch Journal, Lodge Classifieds,
Classifieds, Downloadable Lodge Guide
As well as a new Comic from Richard Stubler.
(Added: 6-May-2002 Hits: 746)
October 2002 Newsletter- This issue contains these great articles: Toss the Versatile 'Flipping Jig' for More and Bigger Bass, High Quality Ontario Maps Available, Bass & Slop.
(Added: 18-Mar-2003 Hits: 704)
Opening Day Muskie You Can Troll, Too!- Trolling isn't just a fall technique for muskie. During the entire season, no matter what month it is, some spots are laid out for casting, some for trolling and some for both. Early in the summer, all species have a lot of options.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 269)
Panfish Filleting Made Easy- We all know how succulent a mess of walleye or pike can be, and the filleting protocol that goes along with prepping them. It has become common practice to keep a few of these larger predators for a meal, but many anglers overlook the culinary treats that a panfish can provide. That's a shame, as panfish are prolific and easily caught, with high or non-existent limits.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 360)
Panfish on Floats: Spring, Summer and Fall- Since then, our use of floats has matured, to say the least. But let’s first clarify some verbiage… Floats are sophisticated. Bobbers are Huck Finnish. Alright, that’s a taste over oversimplified and prudish. To clarify: Bobbers are those straightforward and old-fashioned buoyancy agents, which clip to the line and hold bait at a fixed depth. Floats are part of a greater tactic, entailing precision, finesse, and balance.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 633)
Pike and Muskie Try Open Water- Seasonal changes to lakes and rivers aren't normally consistent from one year to the next. Yes, lakes will freeze and thaw, and they'll also warm and cool. All of this is 100% guaranteed. In the fall, regardless of what the localized weather patterns have been, pike and muskies can be caught well off of the bottom, away from structure or using open water in any combination. Every type of water has factors that contribute to open water fishing.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 335)
Playing the Size Game With Musky- Musky fishing is literally a game of size. Searching for the lifetime fish that stretches beyond the fifty-inch mark on the tape, or a 'ski that bottoms out the scale at thirty-pounds are targets we all strive for when out on the water. Lets face it - size does matter to a musky angler
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 621)
Pounding the Panfish of Winter- Playing tug-of-war with panfish during the cold of winter can be a rewarding and exciting endeavor for anglers across Canada. Nothing beats the pull of the line or the taste in the pan when dealing with these scrappy adversaries. Whether it be crappie, perch or jumbo 'gills, finding and knowing how to catch them is the key for a season of constant action.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 576)
Prepare Your Fishing Gear for the Winter- As an angler, one of the things I least look forward to is preparing my fishing rods and tackle for storage over the long winter to come. Last year I put my gear in the basement and basically forgot about it. I guess I was hoping there would be one more fishing trip, unfortunately I had no such luck. One simple step is to re-spool your line. Fishing line deteriorates from exposure to the sun and constant stretching from hook sets, snags, and fighting fish all take there toll.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 575)
Preparing for the Ice Fishing Season- Cold man winter has begun to make his presence felt, and the hard water season will shortly be upon us. Ice fishing is a great way to continue angling through the winter months, and preparing early for the season opener will enable you to tackle anything you may encounter when on the ice. Follow these tips and advice, and get ready for an enjoyable and productive season on the hard stuff.
(Added: 13-Dec-2001 Hits: 700)
Protecting your eyes on the water- It all started when I kept catching glimpses of something on the edge of my vision. At first I dismissed it as being tired but as it continued I really started to think I was losing it.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 79)
Pulling Largies Through the Ice- Catching largemouth bass through the hardened surface of northern Ontario lakes is an exercise in fun, thrills and excitement. While most ice angler’s turn to panfish or walleye to whet their appetite, those that are searching for line-peeling pulls and hefty weights need look no further than old greenback himself.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 76)
Putting The Boat to Bed- As the days grow shorter and the chills begin to take hold, the sad task of preparing the boat for its yearly hibernation has once again arrived. Winterizing your pride and joy is a necessary step to protect your investment while in deep freeze, and will also see it running in tip-top shape once the season resumes.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 77)
Richard Sims - Articles, Pictures, More- Richard Sims' personal site, featuring articles, pictures and his own personal profile.
(Added: 15-Oct-2003 Hits: 563)
Roadside Brook Trout- What you're looking for may be practically in your own back yard.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 1344)
Rock Piles- It's a beautiful, sunny afternoon. You're just out for a boat ride, to escape the heat perhaps. The fish finder is on, just in case. Suddenly, as you glance down, you spy what seems to be a large mound on the bottom. It was only there for a second but you are sure you saw it. Turning around you spend and hour looking for what you thought you saw. Finding it could mean good fishing. If you are boating on a lake in the Canadian Shield what you probably saw on your screen was a rock pile.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 585)
Run and Gun Ice Lake Trout- When winter wraps its cold grip over the landscape, a lot of underwater life slows down. Warm-water fish get lethargic. This is not the case for cold-water species, like lake trout. Lakers prefer frigid waters. They aggressively feed and are frequently on the move in winter. To succeed at finding and catching these silver, spotted fish, adopt a run-and-gun approach. For any angler, catching a few wintertime lake trout will surely shake off a case of the winter blues.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 84)
Safety in the Outdoors- The Invisible Nasties in Water. We’ve all been guilty of taking a sip of water from a clear-as-can-be stream while wading for trout, splashing lake water on the face after a long hike, or taking a cannonball off the end of a buddy’s dock, usually resulting in laughter and a mouthful of water. These are innocent enough actions, yet they can cause pain and misery – and it can all be blamed on microscopic parasites.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 66)
Salt Water Fishing in the Ottawa River- Pssst. Want to experience saltwater fishing without spending thousands to get there? If so, Hawkesbury, Ontario is the place for you. Reaching over twenty inches in length, the Alosa Sapidissima, a.k.a. American Shad averages between four and six pounds with the world record being just over eleven. Trust me when I say, "A six pound shad on the end of your line will definitely test your tackle." In regards to the fight, they've been compared to double-digit bass.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 644)
Scoring Big Bass with Football Jigs- The variety of jigs available at a tackle shop can be mind-numbing to anglers. Although their differences may appear trivial, jig heads are designed for specific fishing situations. The football jig is a bait that's often overlooked, but deadly on bass. Here's some advice on why and when you need to fish them.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 444)
Scoring BIG on Summertime Smallies- Summer smallmouth fishing is definitely one of life's greatest pleasures. Whether you are using a topwater plug or a tube jig, you always know that you're in-store for some aerial acrobatics and hard-fought pulls. Step up to the plate with the cousin of the largemouth this season, and look forward to memorable and exciting days on the water.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 965)
Searching Out Springtime 'Gills- The spring heralds in new beginnings for those in the fishing fraternity. Making the change from ice gear to open water tackle and from portable huts to fishing boats feels like a time of renewal. And for many, taking that first cast for walleye or pike has become a rite of passage as the season unfolds before us.
But what about the saucer-shaped 'gills that flood the shallows during this time, eager to bite and hard fighters to boot?
(Added: 12-Apr-2007 Hits: 345)
Selective Harvesting of Fish- Catch and release fishing has become increasingly popular in recent years. This practice has obvious conservation benefits. However, there is nothing that can top off a great day’s fishing like a meal of fresh fish on shore or at home.
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 633)
September 2002 Newsletter- This isuue contains Tempting the Big Walleye's of Fall, When the Predators Return… & Tomiko Lake.
(Added: 18-Mar-2003 Hits: 664)
Serve Up Spoons for First-Ice Pan Fish- First ice is an exciting time to fish. Panfish are often willing biters and relatively easy to locate during the initial weeks of freeze-up. Jigging spoons are a deadly bait for the start of the ice season. Other baits will take fish but it's exciting to hunt active fish using spoons before the mid-winter blues set in.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 185)
Set Some Goals This Season- Setting goals, what does this have to do with fishing? The answer: more than one might initially appreciate. Goals are milestones we seek to achieve and by setting goals and having a plan to reach them, success and getting better go hand-in-hand. Always wanted to fish a tournament, catch a muskie or learn to fly fish? Well, it's time to make these things happen.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 366)
Setting Your Sights on a Trophy- Everything in life seems to garner respect for being big. Big cars, big houses and of course, big wallets. The same can be said for fishing, where average-sized fish get nary a raised brow, yet oversized monsters are akin to hitting the lottery jackpot.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 366)
Seven Tricks for Improving Your Bassin' Results- Bass fishing is a game of highs and lows. Going from banner days on the water to empty live wells the next is a fact of life when chasing these challenging adversaries. There are, however, a number of tricks that can improve and elevate your bassin' game to the next level. Test these out on your next trip to the lake and watch your success jump in leaps and bounds. (With the Fishing Shows upon us, it might be the perfect time to pick up some of these items in anticipation of the coming season…)
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 599)
Shad-Feeding Smallmouth Tactics- When shad school up in the summer over open, deep water areas, smallmouth bass won't be far behind. For anglers who may wonder, "Why aren't the smallies in the rocky shallows?" In many lakes I fish, the answer is often that the bronzebacks are chasing schools of shad. You can catch these roaming smallies with a variety of baits. Here's how.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 259)
Shake Your Way to More Bass- The "shaky head" phenomenon has walloped the bass angling community by storm, garnering this finesse-style of fishing plenty of water time. Although the technique is still in its infancy, the doors it can open (especially when targeting those hard-to-catch bass,) make the application a must-have for this upcoming season.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 84)
Shallow Spring Brown- The loosening of winters grip on the Great Lakes signifies one of the best times for boat and shore anglers alike to welcome spring with some brown trout action.
Starting in mid to late March, brown trout start to show up in the shallows of the Great Lakes making themselves available to the savvy angler that recognizes the right places at the right times to enjoy this spring bounty.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 168)
Sharing the Pleasures of Fishing with a Child- Taking a child fishing is a wonderful way to get a youngsters love for the outdoors started. By following a few simple rules, you can make the day one that the both of you will remember for the rest of your lives.
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 670)
Shore Fishing-Walk the Walk- One of the hottest home-grown techniques!Rick O'Banion takes us through 'The Walk'. You won't believe what we caught! Trophy after trophy, all from shore!
(Added: 26-Nov-2003 Hits: 681)
Smallmouth Bass - Recipe for Great Fishing- Take an ultralight rod and reel. Attach a plastic bait with a spinner blade. Add a smallmouth bass and you've got a winning combination.
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 1051)
Smallmouth Vertical Jigging Tips- There are certain days when a vertical jigging approach is the best way to catch the most and biggest smallmouth bass in a lake. In this article I'll share some tips to improve your success for this effective presentation. Whether you use tubes, drop-shot rigs or spoons, practicing your vertical presentation tactics during summer will ensure you're ready to catch fat, football sized bronze backs come autumn.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 82)
Soft-Bottom Perch Ice Fishing- A good perch bite is tough to beat during the ice fishing season. Aggressive and competitive, once you get a school of jumbos riled up you can often put a few on ice before they move on. Soft-bottom flats are a great spot to search out perch. Here are some tips on fishing these areas.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 75)
Soft-Plastics For Bass- You don't always need to flip pockets in heavy weeds to catch bass. In fact, one of my preferred options for uprooting largemouth from heavy cover is throwing soft-plastic topwaters. These baits can be rigged to be virtually weedless and their soft bodies make them more lifelike to bass than hard-plastic baits. Although flipping can be fun, there's nothing like a bucketmouth exploding at the surface, separating lilly pads and sending slop flying.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 384)
Soft-Stickbait Tips for Smallmouth Bass- There's nothing fancy in the design of a soft-plastic stickbait, but its fish-catching ability is far from ordinary. On days when finesse tactics are what's catching fish, a Senko or similar style stickbait is one of a handful of lures I'll rely on to coax smallies into biting. Here are some tips on fishing the simple but effective soft plastics known as stickbaits.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 80)
Spicing Up for Autumn Appetites- The next best venue is an established outside weedline, but only one that materializes off a large weed flat. Additionally, my top weedlines setup next to major drop-offs and incorporate a few weeded fingers. And as far as weed composition goes, nothing outshines deep coontail. Unlike cabbage and milfoil, coontail holds its characteristics – baitfish sanctuary, oxygen, shade, etc. – throughout the fall.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 544)
SPINNERBAITS THE #1 YEAR ROUND TACTIC FOR BIG PIKE AND MUSKIES- One of the questions that I am often asked by clients, and at shows, is "What pike or muskie bait is the overall most effective bait for all seasons?" There is no hesitation in my answer; it is without any doubt, the spinnerbait.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 791)
Spinnerbaits Tricks for Largemouth- Spinnerbaits put plenty of largies in my boat each season. A tried-and-true lure, they sometime produce catches for me on days when nothing else delivers. Much has been written about using these baits, in this piece I want to share four of my best spinnerbait strategies for landing more bucketmouths.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 80)
Spinnerbaits: The Swiss Army Knife Of Lures- There aren't many pieces of water in Ontario that don't have either smallmouth or pike in them. In a lot of cases, largemouth, walleyes and muskies are also available. Wouldn't it be nice if we had a single family of lures to cast and troll for all of the above? What if it solidly hooked the biters, came through all kinds of cover cleanly and was safe and easy for releasing fish?
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 359)
Spoon Fed Pike- It seems that more and more emphasis is being put on the use of body baits. Tackle companies are spending more money developing the perfect swimming action, the perfect wobble, or rattle, or any number of other characteristics. The spoon seems to have fallen by the wayside in favour of Husky Jerks, Bombers, Torpedoes, and other similiar lures.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 682)
SPOONS Give 'em something different- I started experimenting with spoons for muskies in 1993, after having witnessed their effectiveness for big chinook salmon on several occasions. I asked my many of peers in both U.S. and Canada about using spoons for muskies, and each time pretty much got the same response… "Oh, they're great for pike, but muskies won't touch 'em." I found that a little hard to understand.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 608)
Spring Bluegill Micro-Crankbait Tactics- Come spring, many species of the sunfish family move to warm, shallow water to spawn. Bluegills are no exception, and targeting these scrappy fighters with ultra-light tackle is an amazing way to spend a sunny, spring afternoon. Several lures will fool bluegills come spring, but sight fishing with micro-sized crankbaits lets you precision fish schools and target the largest fish.
(Added: 9-May-2007 Hits: 299)
Spring Musky Fishing- Spring, the time for renewal, and the time for early musky fishing! At this time of the year musky are still lethargic due to colder water, and may be a little harder to find than in the summer. These are some tips that should make you more successful at the end of the day.
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 958)
Spring Pike Fishing- Some of the best pike fishin'is early, just as the pike season opens. At this time of the year you will find pike feeding on smaller fish that are still holding in spawning areas such as rivers or river mouths. Search out the water that has warmed first, then look for darker coloured bottom flats or early weed growth.
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 1238)
Staying Current on River Walleye- Finding walleye in rivers can be just as challenging, if not more, than locating them in lakes. This difficulty can make rivers a second choice when lakes are easily accessible. These neglected waters can sometimes contain more and less pressured fish to be caught by anglers wise on the ways river fishing. One key factor to locating fish in rivers is establishing productive current areas containing fast and slack water close to prime structures and cover.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 395)
Suckers Don't Suck- Suckers are right up there with Carp and Rock Bass as one of those "nuisance fish" that is shunned by most anglers. All too often on the riverbanks you'll hear, "Oh it's just a sucker" after a Steelheader's float disappears and their rod starts to buckle over. Suckers may not put on the same aerial display as a Steelhead or be as pleasing to the eye with their bland colouring, but Suckers aren't all bad, in fact when targeted with light gear they can make for quite the exciting day.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 371)
Summer Muskies In Clear Water- Even when conditions are perfect, clear water can be tough water to fish. It can be mentally and physically crippling when you’re fishing muskies on clear water and skies or winds are unfavourable. Darker, more fertile lakes and rivers are more forgiving than clear ones, and populations are almost always higher. ‘Plan B’ is to simply pull off the water and try one once clear water begins wearing you down.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 356)
Summer Pike Points- Some are definitely better than others! Reading water and being able to carry out a logical fishing approach is the most important part of the process. You can have the sharpest hooks, make the perfect cast and work your lure correctly but if you're fishing dead water, not much will happen. On structure like points especially, making good use of lure depth and fishing angles is really important.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 261)
Summer Whitefish- The dog days of summer are here and it is time to change strategies for whitefish. Being a cold water fish, the whities need to hole-up in deeper, cooler water at this time of the season. They also become a bit slower in their feeding. This means that you have to offer the bait to the fish in a slightly different manner.
(Added: 14-Aug-2001 Hits: 731)
Swimbaits for Walleye- If you’re looking to land big walleye and prefer casting over trolling, swimbaits are one of the best baits going to accomplish this goal. When other anglers are working small, twister tail jigs with a vertical finesse approach, casting a swimbait can boat you plenty of fish. This season give yourself an advantage, integrating swimbaits into your walleye repertoire. Here’s what you need to know about these productive baits
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 91)
Tackle Tips for Icing Winter Crappies- When it comes to ice fishing, my number one quarry is the crappie. This specie can give an angler endless action throughout the day, a great fight on light gear, and of course, can provide a tasty meal at the end of a long stint spent on the ice. Targeting crappies certainly isn't considered rocket science, but there are certain techniques and baits that can greatly increase your odds for success.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 359)
Tackling Trophy Muskies with Topwaters- Topwater fishing for muskies is a technique that can deliver solid results, with the chance of hooking that trophy of a lifetime. Head out this year with a topwater bait in hand, and discover how exciting, and truly productive, this method can be.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 846)
Take a Topwater Approach to Aerial Smallmouth- Topwater fishing for smallmouth bass is truly a remarkable thing of beauty. Pound for pound these fish are freshwaters toughest customers. Couple that with the surface-shattering excitement of topwater fishing and you couldn't ask for a better combination. Try topwaters this year and discover how truly awesome this technique can be.
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 802)
Take Ice Fishing To The Next Level- With ice fishing in full swing across Ontario, anglers are beginning to realize the importance of having the right tools for the job at hand. From portable huts that afford added mobility to powerful gas augers for efficient hole drilling, specialized equipment will put you on more fish - plain and simple.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 386)
Taking Care of Your Catch- The catch-and-release ethic is now a big part of fishing, not only in tournaments, but also fishing in general. Quite simply, it helps sustain the resource. But improper care and handling of fish by anglers can cause unintentional harm to fish.
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 663)
Team Ice Fishing- Anglers often use the concept of team fishing during open water fishing. For example, musky partners vary lure types, speeds and retrieve styles used to increase their chances of landing a trophy; while bass anglers often toss a bait towards their partners hooked fish, attempting to catch any followers. The spirit of cooperation, communication and strategy should not disappear after you winterize your boat and move out on the ice.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 425)
Tempting the Big Walleye's of Fall- As the leaves begin to drop and the temperature starts to cool, the walleye begins a migration to typical areas in search of food to fatten-up for the upcoming winter. Fall time is synonymous with trophy time as these fish display size, strength and a willingness to bite. Locating and tempting these lunker fish can be a rewarding experience by trying the following tactics and techniques for hot action on those cool days of autumn.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 613)
Ten Tips For Flipping and Pitching- If there are two techniques that have accounted for more and bigger largemouth in my boat over the years, they have to be flipping and pitching. Not only are these short-string tactics both finesse and heavy-handed, they are also a ton of fun to perfect and execute
(Added: 7-Feb-2007 Hits: 371)
The Basic Lures for Lunker Largemouth- For those anglers that have caught a severe case of the "bassin' bug," deciding on what lures and baits to choose can be a complicated and difficult decision. Breaking down the collection of baits into five significant and productive types will help all those new to bass fishing get a better handle on what to throw a largemouth's way. Stock your tackle box up with each of the following lures and watch how simplified the bassin' game can be and how your success rate will seemingly skyrocket.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 648)
The Day of the Giants … a truly unique day- July 12th…I call this the day of the giants. It was on the second day of a 3 day Musky film shoot with my good friend Aaron Shirley (Getting Hooked with Aaron & Barry) and awesome Muskie guide and friend Marc Thorpe. The Ottawa River is awesome fishery but can also be tough at times. The day proceeded not much unlike the other. It was hot, humid, little breeze and steady barometer at the time (bad weather was supposed to roll in later in the day).
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 376)
The FUNdamentals of a Fishing Log- We have all had similar days on the water. Those when the fish refuse to bite, no matter what technique or bait we toss their way. Scratching our heads only brings greater discomfort, and we resign ourselves to believe that it must just be a "bad day" on the water.
Situations such as these can be reversed - made possible by the art of patterning the fish. But before you can pattern, you first must learn to record, and that can easily be achieved by creating a fishing log.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 262)
The Importance of Weeds- When it comes to freshwater angling, weeds play an extremely important role in the livelihood of a fish. They provide shelter, oxygen, ambush points and a smorgasbord of baitfish - more than enough reasons to pay special attention to the green stuff when out for the day. Learn the true reasons why weeds are so special, and watch your catch rates grow in leaps and bounds
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 421)
The Joy of Fishing with the Kids- Have you ever wondered why some fathers do not take the kids fishing with them? All that prime bonding time they could be spending together. Enjoying each other's company and developing a close friendship that will last a lifetime together.
(Added: 12-Jun-2001 Hits: 690)
The Mistakes an Angler Makes- Mistakes on the water can be a deal breaker when it comes to putting fish in the boat. Whether we subconsciously commit these errors, or tow the bad habits to the launch ramp each time out, they will become a detriment to your angling success. Recognizing our mistakes and how to overcome them will put you back in the drivers seat, leading to more fulfilling days and a significant increase in that bend of the rod.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 170)
The Simple Rig For Smart Walleyes- Float fishing through the ice is for anyone who has baked in the winter-thaw sun of an Ontario February or March. The technique really shines when the holes aren't freezing, and hanging bait in your favorite spots is a winner for walleyes schooling up on or around structure.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 367)
The Skinny on Portable Ice Huts- The bitter wind blew furiously, pelting me with unforgiving force, while sapping my warmth and enthusiasm. I struggled to clench my ultra light rod, my grip loosening as my glove raised a white flag to the invisible enemy we all call cold.
Then, the snow started to fall. Not tranquil flakes Norman Rockwell might depict, but the ferocious, mean-spirited kind that only the Grinch could conjure up to spoil a deserving child's Christmas.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 190)
The Tackle Shop- Choosing tackle is chiefly a matter of doing a little research. Buy what you need to get the job done, and have fun adding to your arsenal each time you visit the store. New products come out all the time, and that's the other fun part of fishing.
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 989)
The Ten Commandments of Topwatering- The art of angling is built upon many different techniques and methods in order to catch fish. From tossing a crank, hopping a tube, or burning a spinnerbait, the options are wide open for the intuitive rod slinger.
For those searching out heart-stopping action and high-energy thrills, however, tempting fish on the surface is a hands down winner, if only for the visual aspect of boiling water and the crashing of fish. Here are ten tips to get the most out of your topwater experience.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 365)
Three Foolproof Topwater Tactics for Smallmouth Bass- This article concentrates on three foolproof topwater baits for smallmouth bass: prop baits, poppers and cigar-style lures. Each has a different action on the surface and all regularly fool smallmouth bass.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 82)
Three Ice Fishing Jigs- When it comes to buying ice jigs, anglers are faced with dozens of choices, including: colours, brand names, hook and jig sizes. One of the most basic features of an ice fishing jig is its style. There are three main types of ice fishing jigs: horizontal, vertical and 45 degree angle models. Each should take up some space in your tackle box, here's a look at why and when you should use them.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 186)
Throttling Back for the Spring Attack- Energies and ambitions have been suffocated since fall; back when turkey was served with mashed potatoes and ‘eyes were stacked on points like lumber. Those were Hallmark moments, the days after the leaves dropped but snow had yet to fall. Yeah, ice fishing provided a redeemable outlet, too, but spring is still spring. Putting the boat in; running your fingers through a mess of leeches, all black ones; cocking back the bail for the season’s maiden cast. That’s it. That’s the feeling.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 539)
Timely Tactics for 'Negative-Mood' Largemouth- Nothing can frustrate an angler more than targeting largemouth bass that are in a definite finicky mode. The more lures you throw at them, the more they seem to turn up their noses and silently mock your futile efforts. If fronts, dog days of summer or pressured fish are bringing you down, try these proven tactics in order to put more largemouth in the boat during these "tough times."
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 534)
Tinkering With the Lures of Ice and Snow- Anglers are a believing bunch. Most of us are willing to take a lure straight from the package and tie it on our line, never once questioning whether it will catch fish like the manufacturer professes it to. The fact of the matter is, every lure on the market can be improved or tinkered with in order to improve its fish catching abilities, allowing the intuitive angler the freedom to catch more and bigger fish each time they head out.
(Added: 6-Jan-2005 Hits: 438)
Tip-Up Upkeep- One thing that's nice about a tip-up is they don't require a lot of maintenance. I think that's part of their appeal, that and they last a long time," says Eric Poster of HT Enterprises, Inc. Odds are if you're an ice angler you own tip-ups, and to many of us, they're a critical component to the hard-water season. Like fishing reels, underwater-style tip-ups require occasional maintenance to keep them in fish-catching shape.
(Added: 6-Jan-2005 Hits: 442)
Tips for Drilling Ice Holes- The auger let out a steady 2-cycle scream as it chewed through a foot and a half of ice. Chips and shards fell around my feet until the blades broke through. I hit the throttle and cleared out the slush, before walking a few yards and punching another hole. Behind me my partner followed, checking the depth of water with a Vexilar. In 10 minutes we had several holes drilled, cleaned and scanned for depth. Now, we were ready to fish.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 326)
Tips for Ice Auger Operation and Maintenance- Unless you enjoy chipping holes in the ice with an axe or a spud, you need an auger to ice fish. When out in the bitter-cold of winter, I find frustrations intensify and nothing is worse than having problems with your auger after getting to your favourite spot. After all, if you can't get through the ice, you can't fish. Whether you use a hand or a power one, here are some operation and maintenance tips on keeping your auger in top shape.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 433)
Tips to Ice More Perch Part One- Getting into steady action from a biting school of jumbos is every perchers dream. Ultimately, the more diverse of an angler the better prepared you'll be to handle whatever fish throw at you. Here are five important tips to keep in mind when the bite gets tough
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 77)
Toad Rigging Tactics- When conditions are right, I like nothing more than catching largemouth bass on soft-plastic top water baits. Whether you like hollow-bodied frogs or the slimmer profile of toads (also called swimming frogs), both are outstanding baits. In this article, I'll cover some tips for rigging and fishing toads to put more largemouth bass in your boat this season.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 245)
TOMIKO LAKE- Throughout the years my partner, Herb and I seem to fish smaller lakes. These small lakes draw us to them like a magnet to a piece of iron. One thing we found and like about small lakes are you can fish the whole lake in one day and find the honey holes on a weeks vacation. One lake we fish is about 15 miles from Sturgeon Falls called, Tomiko lake. The lake has an ideal population of smallmouth bass and northern pike.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 643)
Tools and Traits for Properly Releasing Muskie- Muskie fishing is one of the fastest growing areas in sport fishing today. Ask any long-time muskie angler if fishing pressure is increasing, or look at the growth of muskie lure manufacturers, and you'll be convinced that muskie fishing is on the rise. With more anglers pursuing these predators every year, the need for proper releasing techniques is crucial to ensure the survival of post-release fish and sustain the sport fishery.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 348)
Top Lure Picks for Early Season Pike- Fresh from the spawn, pike will be found in specific locations and can be caught with a variety of lures. At this time of year, the fishing can be fast and furious, and Mr. Pike is more than willing to entertain you with a game of tug-of-war. Jump-start your fishing season by tangling with the mighty "water wolf", and be prepared for some of the best fishing you can imagine
(Added: 29-Mar-2001 Hits: 1204)
Top Three Lure Choices for Catching Walleye- Walleye are Canada's favourite and most popular species to fish for, and for good reason - they are plentiful, put up a decent tussle and taste delicious in the pan. There are literally hundreds of lures on the market to catch this fishes' attention, (and the curiosity of the angler), but there are a few tried and true methods that will always put a limit in the boat. Try this back-to-basics approach to walleye fishing and be prepared to have your rod pulled this year.
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 1772)
Toss the Versatile 'Flipping Jig' for More and Bigger Bass- The flipping jig, or jig-and-pig as it is commonly called, is one of the simplest looking baits on the market that routinely accounts for huge stringers of bass year after year. For the majority of anglers, throwing the bait to the odd dock or tree is the extent of its usage. For those in the know, however, the sky is the limit when it comes to where and how to throw this versatile lure. Learn the ins and outs of the 'jig-and-pig,' and watch your catch rate grow in leaps and bounds.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 675)
Tournament Tips - Learn from the Walleye Pros.- Some of the thousands of Canadian anglers that chase walleyes every year pursue them for more than just enjoyment, relaxation, sport or even a meal. These anglers fish for money and glory in big-dollar professional walleye tournaments across North America. While these tournaments may not interest all walleye anglers, can the average recreational walleye angler learn something from these pros?
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 270)
Tricks of the Trade for Trailers- Whether it is to pull a boat or transport an ATV, the majority of outdoor folk rely heavily on trailers to get their equipment from point A to B. Most of us know the reasoning behind ramp etiquette, as well as the importance of hitch strength and ball size. But what about the real nitty-gritty, the tricks of the trade that can only be gained through years of pulling on the road.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 331)
Triggering Crappie- Crappies are a great species to target through the ice. At times they can be challenging to find, but worth the effort once you locate a school of slabs. Often eager to investigate lures, crappie can be wary to hit baits and, even then, takes can be extremely subtle. Here are some hints on how-to trigger crappie into biting this ice season.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 455)
Trusting Tip Ups- In ice fishing a lot of the spotlight has recently focused on run-and-gun tactics with jigging rods. Yet in the shadow of this approach lurks a tried-and-true technique that fools hundreds of fish each season - tip-ups. Tip-ups are sometimes perceived as a secondary, or lesser, method for ice fishing. However, when properly used these presentations can be extremely successful, sometimes out-fishing jigging rods.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 380)
Try Small Baits This Winter- One of the neatest things about fishing has to be fishing lures! There are so many on the market. When you have success, part of the fun is definitely playing up the 'magic lure' idea. Of all the lures and tackle out there, one of the details I look at is size. Proven colours, shapes or designs can be really interesting to play with when they're offered in smaller versions.
(Added: 29-Jan-2007 Hits: 340)
Tube Bait Tactics for Tough Smallies- Most anglers across North America would agree - smallmouth can sometimes be darn finicky. Seeing a school of four and five-pounders ignoring our baits is an occurrence each of us has encountered while out on the water. For tough smallies, the one bait to reach for when you want guaranteed success is the tube-bait. This lure is renowned for it fish-catching abilities, yet, trying some different techniques and adapting this bait will have the smallies jumping in the boat this year.
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 868)
Turn Your Fishing Snapshots into Works of Art- For the most part, anyone who fishes usually does so with a camera in tow. Capturing the beauty of a precise moment will ensure that you never forget the sheer enjoyment that you encountered while in the outdoors. (Plus a breathtaking photo can secure bragging rights when gleefully shown to your peers and family!) Come and explore the magic that the camera holds, and begin filling your photo album full of images that will make you proud.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 555)
Turn Your Musky 'Follows' Into 'Takers- Musky fishing can be a funny game. An angler can spend many hours beating the water to a froth, only to have a musky finally appear, lazily trailing the bait then slowly disappearing out of sight. Musky follows are a common occurrence when chasing this majestic beast, however, there are a few tricks that can be utilized to turn those curious fish into solid takers. Try these tips when out on your next hunt and get ready to land your fair share of braggin' size 'skies.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 583)
Twitching Your Way to a Bass Bonanza- Cast. Twitch, twitch, twitch….pause. Fish on! Throwing twitchbaits to bass can lead to some exciting days on the water - and some big bass to boot. Twitchbaits mimic the natural look and action of a baitfish to a T, and therein lies the reason for their incredible fish-catching abilities. Try your hand at the following "twitch tactics," and reap the rewards that the bass gods will shine down on you.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 570)
Vertical Jigging for Suspended Smallies- Retrieving baits and lures in a horizontal fashion is one of the most commonly utilized and effective techniques in fishing today. There are times, however, when a vertical approach may be your best bet when dealing with certain situations. Smallmouth that suspend in open water is one key period where vertical jigging a lure will outshine and out produce any other methods on the market.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 565)
Vexilar Upkeep- Eager to move, the angler quickly packed his gear, grabbed the rope to his portable hut, and walked over to another hole several feet away. Upon arrival, he turned, looking back to see that his flasher and a rod had fallen out of the sled. "The walk was only a few yards, what were the odds?" he thought. Is this angler you?
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 358)
Wake Up Some Bass- Wake baits are taking the bass movement by storm, and for good reason. These tantalizing cranks give new meaning to the term "topwatering," and provide a niche factor for garnering strikes when other baits fail to make the grade. Come and uncover the wake craze - its one bait worth doing a background check on.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 81)
Walleye and Bait- Ask any fisherman that targets walleye and he will mention that "you can't catch them if you can't find them." Despite the body of water where you usually target walleyes go where their menu is being served. The walleye are near the top of the food chain, so find their favorite meal and you will find them
(Added: 14-Aug-2001 Hits: 981)
Walleye and Bobbers- Across Ontario, the walleye rates hands-down as the most sought after and favorite game fish. The techniques for catching these critters may be well-known and elementary, and include the ever popular jigging, trolling and bottom bouncing.
(Added: 9-Mar-2008 Hits: 172)
Walleye Season - Opener Jigging Tips- With this year's open-water walleye season here (or soon to be), it's hard not to get excited. A multi-species angler, I have an affinity for early season walleye fishing as I'm sure many of you do. To help you get the most out of your time on the water, here are a few jigging tips to help you put more walleyes in your landing net.
(Added: 14-Mar-2009 Hits: 97)
Walleye with live minnows?- Many of you have probably fished for these beauties using live minnows and found that they didn't stay on the hook for long or died fairly quickly. Let's see if we can fix these problems.
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 1078)
Walleye with live minnows?- Many of you have probably fished for these beauties using live minnows and found that they didn't stay on the hook for long or died fairly quickly. Let's see if we can fix these problems.
(Added: 17-Apr-2001 Hits: 774)
Walleyes in Precarious and Particular Places- Walleyes and whales could never coexist. Well, first there’s that saltwater to freshwater issue, and then the fact that whales breathe air through a blowhole and walleyes take oxygen aquatically, through gills. Granted, both species spend time in wide open spaces – whales sucking plankton through their baleen and walleyes sucking flesh through their choppers – but their timecards differ considerably.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 565)
WATCH THOSE FINGERS; HOOKS AND TEETH CAN HURT!- It only takes a quick peak into the mouth of a good-sized pike or muskie to quickly surmise that this is not a wise place to stick your digits if you wish for them to remain intact. Those spike-like teeth on the roof of their mouth can shred your knuckles in the blink of an eye, while the larger lower teeth can really do some serious damage. Trophy sized specimens may have teeth approaching two centimetres (3/4 inch) long, and should be shown extreme caution.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 645)
Ways to Catch Pike!- One of our most common game fish, the Northern Pike is taken best by casting. He'll hit your lure with a powerful dash, then make a "run" for the weeds
(Added: 27-Mar-2001 Hits: 1408)
When the Predators Return- Boats crisscrossed it all summer long; personal watercraft here, tuber there. Weeds uprooted and shredded, fouling the surface like bees in a beverage. These disorderly but auspicious shoreline flats are playgrounds for people, and consequently vacated by gamefish.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 520)
Winter Forktails and The Rubber Pipe- Sixty seven feet below my boots, I started the hollow, plastic fake into its rhythm once again. Never darting or falling the same way twice, and rotating while at rest, it had already produced two big, wild trout in the first two holes I'd cut that morning, and the strike in hole number three caught me totally off guard, and I missed it.
(Added: 14-Mar-2006 Hits: 342)
Winter Whitefish- Whitefish spawn in mid-Nov; along the extensive sand, gravel and stony shoals. Each female randomly drops from 5-15 thousand eggs before returning to deeper water. The eggs hatch in late winter and the young fish form schools that travel the shoal areas in search of food.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 575)
Work The Flats for Wandering Largemouth- Flat fishing for largemouth bass can produce predictable and exciting action for anglers searching for fruitful days on the water. Not only do flats hold tremendous numbers of fish, they also hold a large number of trophies, hidden from prying eyes throughout this great expanse of "nothingness." Learning when to hit the flats, and what to use, will be your greatest strength when it comes to limiting out on the water with this tried and true technique.
(Added: 6-Oct-2003 Hits: 615)
Working the Boat for Walleye- Presentation is a key component when chasing walleye. If your lure or bait is not positioned at the correct angle, depth or speed, your chances for success are greatly diminished.
Boat control is your greatest asset when it comes to presenting your bait accurately, yet it is a skill that requires the necessary equipment, as well as time spent on the water practicing. Follow these tactics to better your boat positioning, and reap the rewards of more walleye in the net.
(Added: 10-Sep-2007 Hits: 235)
You Better Believe Bait's Fun Fishing For Ciscoe- They move through spots in big schools, and their strikes range from crisp little taps to all-out attacks. Catching one normally means you'll be busy with others for a while. They're good little fighters on panfish-weight fishing tackle, and they're excellent smoked, baked or even fried. They inhabit a huge range of lake types across Ontario, from tea-stained ones with mostly soft bottom to the classic, crystal clear and rocky. Lake herring/ciscoe and great fun.
(Added: 7-Feb-2007 Hits: 379)
