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Ontario's French River Smallmouth Bass held Karl Kalonka of Extreme Angler TV at Bear's Den Lodge

Spring Smallmouth Bass Fishing on Ontario’s French River: Best Spots & Pro Tips

Fishing, Fishing French River, Fishing Tips, French River Delta, French River Provincial Park, Freshwater Fishing, How To, Smallmouth Bass, Tips & Tricks /

As the ice melts and Ontario’s rivers awaken, spring ushers in one of the most exciting seasons for anglers: smallmouth bass fishing! The French River transforms into a fishing paradise during this time, offering unparalleled opportunities to connect with nature and reel in impressive catches. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, Bear’s Den […]

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Woman in a sun cap standing at the top of Sturgeon Chutes over looking one of the many deltas within the French River Provincial Park. The erosion created the island down stream of the falls.

The Wonders of River Deltas: Spotlight on the French River

Conservation, Discover Ontario, Experience, French River Delta, French River Provincial Park, History, Nature, Ontario Parks, Outdoor Adventures /

River deltas represent nature’s artistic masterpieces, carved over millennia by flowing water and sediment. Among these natural wonders, the French River Delta in Northeastern Ontario stands as a breathtaking example of geological forces at work. What Are River Deltas? River deltas form when flowing rivers meet larger bodies of water and slow down, causing sediment

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French River Pike caught on a well tied fishing lure.

5 Simple Freshwater Fishing Knots for Beginners

Fishing, Fishing French River, Fishing Tips, How To, Tips & Tricks /

Fishing knots seem like a tangled mess of loops and lines for beginners. However, mastering a few essential knots can make all the difference in your fishing experience. These knots are not just about securing your hook or lure; they are about ensuring your fishing line’s strength, maximizing your catch rate, and enhancing your connection

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One of the many Beaver Huts found in the French River Provincial Park, Northeastern Ontario Canada.

Beaver Haven: Exploring Ontario’s French River Wildlife

Conservation, French River Provincial Park, Fur Trade History in Canada, Great Canadian Wilderness, History, Ontario Parks, Wildlfie /

Nestled within the serene landscapes of Ontario, the French River is home to one of nature’s most fascinating architects—the beaver. They are well known for their remarkable ability to build and transform environments; these industrious creatures play a vital role in Ontario’s ecosystem. Yet, there is more intrigue we can explore and build upon from:

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Young man holding a Freshwater Drum caught in the Flat Rapids area of the French River Delta, Northeastern Ontario, Canada.

Catch the Beat: Fishing for Freshwater Drums

Conservation, Discover Ontario, Fishing, Fishing French River, Fishing Tips, Freshwater Drum, Freshwater Fishing, History, How To, Tips & Tricks /

In the heart of Ontario’s waters, where ancient rhythms echo through time, swims a fish that knows how to make waves—both in folklore and on the end of an angler’s line. Meet the Freshwater Drum, affectionately known as the ‘Sheepshead.’ Its drumming beats resonate through the ages, connecting us to Canada’s Indigenous heritage and the

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A man holding a 41 inch Male French River Spring Muskie with post spawn marks on its body.

In the Thick of It: Navigating Weedy Waters for Muskies

Fishing, Fishing French River, Fishing Tips, Freshwater Fishing, How To, Muskie, Musky, Tips & Tricks /

Imagine standing at the water’s edge, surrounded by lush green weeds that sway gently in the breeze. The air is crisp, and the sun casts dappled shadows on the surface. You know that beneath those thick mats of vegetation lies a hidden predator — the elusive muskellunge. As you launch your boat, the scent of

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Father and son in a fishing boat driving down the French River. Both individuals are wearing their lifejackets.

Spring’s Arrival: Embracing Water Safety and Boating Vigilance

How To, Personal Care, Safety in the Outdoors, Tips & Tricks /

With the arrival of spring, nature beckons us to explore the great outdoors. As we answer this call, it’s imperative to prioritize cold water awareness and boating safety for adventurers of all ages. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, let’s consider four essential safety principles: Cold Water Vigilance: The allure of rivers and streams

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Image of a man holding a French River Bowfin in Ontario Canada.

3 Important Ancient Fish of Ontario: Bowfin, Gar, and Sturgeon

Bowfin, Conservation, Fishing, Fishing Tips, Georgian Bay, History, Longnose Gar, Nature, Ontario Parks, Sturgeon /

Do you love history, particularly living history? Imagine yourself swimming with living dinosaurs, or perhaps even holding one. While this may not be Jurassic Park, in Ontario you can get close to that experience by encountering some of the oldest living fish still swimming on Earth: Bowfin, Gar, and Sturgeon. These three fish species have

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Image of a Black Crappie on the French River caught by Jake Confer

Black vs White Crappie: Simplifying the Differences

Crappie, Fishing, Fishing French River, Fishing Tips, Freshwater Fishing, Tips & Tricks /

What do you get when you cross a Black Crappie and a White Crappie? A Gray Crappie? No, that’s a silly joke. But seriously, what are the differences between these two fish, and why should you care? Well, if you’re a fan of fishing or eating crappie, you should definitely care. Knowing the differences can

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