Young or old, novice or professional angler – the pull on your line and the bend of the rod is exhilarating! Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned pro, fishing is an activity any and all can enjoy. And our Fishing page has something for anglers of all levels. For those looking to get started, we have information on the Learn to Fish program offered by Ontario Parks. For the more seasoned angler, Fish’n Canada has created a fishing hotspot generator to tell you where to go to find the fish you are looking for as well as Fish talk News and Fishin Stories to share! Bob Izumi has prepared insider tips and tricks which can help those of all experience levels! So jump in, get your feet wet, and have a reeling good time!
GO'IN FISHING
What's in Your Tackle Box?
Most anglers know that good things come to those who bait – especially to those who come prepared! Before heading out on the water and casting your line, ensure your tackle box is up to par. Fish n’ Canada offers tips and tricks for ensuring you’re well-equipped for any fishing trip.
Safety on Deck
When you’re having fun in the sun near a body of water, safety should always remain a top priority. Whether you’re fishing by the shore or from your boat, make sure the whole family is equipped with the best-fitting water safety gear they need this summer.
What's in Your Tackle Box?
With over 250,000 lakes and countless rivers and creeks, Ontario is one of the world’s best places to fish. You can bet your bass that there’s a spot for your pole, find a fishing spot here.
Learn to fish
You are never too old or too young to land your first catch! The Learn to Fish program from Ontario Parks invites everyone to discover a fun outdoor activity that the whole family can enjoy! This free two-hour program combines a practical teaching session with hands-on fishing, supported by experienced instructors. Learn more here!
Cold water fishing tips
When summer comes to an end, it doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the outdoors. For those looking to extend their fishing season beyond the summer months, the Canadian Safe Boating Council has resources and information for how to stay safe in cold waters.
LEARNING TO FISH
Last year we asked Coleman fans to share a story about the person who taught them how to fish and the best lesson they learned.
Below are our favourite lessons to pass on to any beginner angler!
Hook, line and sinker
Literally! Some of the best things to keep in your tackle box are extra hooks, sinkers and bobbers. Having these supplies on hand is essential for fishers of any skill level – from first-timers to advanced anglers.
Don't forget headwear and sunscreen
Waiting for that perfect catch may take some time and it’s likely you’ll catch a sunburn first! Trust us, you would rather come home with an impressive catch than a painful sunburn, so be sure to pack sun protection and a hat.
Patience
Many Coleman fans said that being told to have patience is the best fishing advice they ever received. One father even said, “It’s ok to catch the bottom, at least you caught something!”
Use a net with a floating handle
This is the secret weapon ever parent needs when fishing with kids. Even if your little one can’t master the fishing pole at first, this type of net can be easily retrieved if dropped in the water - no problem!
Try a kayak
Once you’ve had some practice fishing from a dock or the shoreline, challenge yourself by fishing from a kayak. Not only will you get a good workout in when paddling out, but you will also be able to squeeze into those smaller areas, where fishing boats can’t fit. Don’t forget to wear your PFD!
Fish with the family
For Canadians, fishing has become an outdoor tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. Parents teach their children, who go on to teach their little ones. Sometimes fishing isn’t about the perfect catch, but creating memories with loved ones.
FISHING TIPS
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Tip 1: What Lures do you Need?
One of the best all-around lures you can have in your tackle box is an in-line spinner. These come in a range of sizes and styles, from very small to very large, and will catch everything from small panfish to gigantic muskies. To fish them, simply cast them out and reel them in - the flashing blade will do the rest. Experiment with different colours, blade styles…
Tip 2: Tackle Storage
The best way to store your tackle is in plastic tackle trays. These are ideal for keeping your hooks and lures separated by size or by species so that you can take only the tackle you need. Tackle trays are available in a wide range of sizes so they can accommodate everything from hooks and sinkers to soft plastic baits to crankbaits.
Tip 3: Rod and Reel Selection
There’s no question that a spinning rod with an open-faced spinning reel is the best set-up for general, all-around fishing. This system is easy to cast, can handle a variety of lures and plastic baits and matches well with line from four to 12-pound test. One-piece rods are the most sensitive, but two-piece models are nearly as good and they are much easier…
Tip 4: Using Leaders
Leaders can be used to add a section of different line or wire to the end of your main fishing line. For example, you might use a leader to attach a section of monofilament line to a braided line when you want the power of the braid but need a clear line attached to your hook or lure. You can also use a leader to attach a light section of line to a heavier mainline when…
Tip 5: Fishing Licences
Fishing licences can be purchased through most tackle and outdoors stores, fishing outfitters/resorts/lodges as well as through the natural resources department of your provincial government. There is no test required to purchase a licence but it is required that it be on your person whenever you are fishing.
Tip 6: Boat Operator's Card
In Canada, everyone who operates a powered recreational watercraft of any kind is required to have a Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card. There are no exemptions for age, engine size, the type of watercraft or the size of the lake or river. To get a Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card you need to score at least 75% on a test of basic boating rules and regulations that is…
Tip 7: Fishing from Shore
Just about any species that can be caught from a boat can also be caught from shore in certain locations at certain times of the year. For example, walleyes are easily caught during the first part of the open water season in the rivers where they spawn, or at the mouths of those rivers. Steelhead and salmon are also available to shore anglers when they make their annual…
LICENSE-FREE FISHING
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