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Why is the Bowfin Green?
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Can you guess why the bowfin is emerald green?
Bowfin or sometimes referred to as "Dogfish" come in a variety of shapes and at times colours. Their bodies are generally cylindrical and eel like in appearance. Normally their sides and back can be olive to brownish in colour with vertical bars for camouflaged pattern. Their underbellies are a whitish-cream colour like most other freshwater fish in Northern Ontario such as this bowfin below.
[caption id="attachment_1605" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Chris Crilly's Line Class World Record 29-inch Catch & Release French River Bowfin.[/caption]
But, why the brighter emerald-greenish colour you ask?
Just like mergansers and other various species of birds, who strut their brilliant plumage. Spawning.
Out of mating season, male bowfin (especially younger ones) can be quickly identified by the yello -
New Line Class World Record – Bowfin
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Fishing the French River contains many hidden surprises for avid anglers. Many of us have our interests from the baits we cast to the fish species we prefer to catch. But it's always good to remember that sometimes thrill seeking for our favourites should not reel past our opportunities for the lesser favourite species of fish.
[caption id="attachment_1605" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Chris Crilly with his world record 29 inch French River Bowfin.[/caption]
Chris Crilly is an avid bass fisherman from Burke, Virginia; however, during his stay at Bear's Den Lodge he managed to catch two bowfin. At first he thought nothing of this until he mentioned the unusual size of his bowfin. Searching through the record book, lodge owner Brenda Barefoot realized that Chris could have a Line Class World Record fish depending on the test of the line. After some encouragement, Chris sent in wh
Can you guess why the bowfin is emerald green?
Bowfin or sometimes referred to as "Dogfish" come in a variety of shapes and at times colours. Their bodies are generally cylindrical and eel like in appearance. Normally their sides and back can be olive to brownish in colour with vertical bars for camouflaged pattern. Their underbellies are a whitish-cream colour like most other freshwater fish in Northern Ontario such as this bowfin below.
[caption id="attachment_1605" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Chris Crilly's Line Class World Record 29-inch Catch & Release French River Bowfin.[/caption]
But, why the brighter emerald-greenish colour you ask?
Just like mergansers and other various species of birds, who strut their brilliant plumage. Spawning.
Out of mating season, male bowfin (especially younger ones) can be quickly identified by the yello 
Fishing the French River contains many hidden surprises for avid anglers. Many of us have our interests from the baits we cast to the fish species we prefer to catch. But it's always good to remember that sometimes thrill seeking for our favourites should not reel past our opportunities for the lesser favourite species of fish.
[caption id="attachment_1605" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Chris Crilly with his world record 29 inch French River Bowfin.[/caption]
Chris Crilly is an avid bass fisherman from Burke, Virginia; however, during his stay at Bear's Den Lodge he managed to catch two bowfin. At first he thought nothing of this until he mentioned the unusual size of his bowfin. Searching through the record book, lodge owner Brenda Barefoot realized that Chris could have a Line Class World Record fish depending on the test of the line. After some encouragement, Chris sent in wh 
From swimming to fishing, every year Canadians and tourists alike experience the abundance of aquatic activities through thousands of different waterfronts. Of those who experience and explore these w
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In early spring, right after ice has thawed, walleye will spawn shortly after. The next ten days from pickerel spawn, they become rather lethargic - not wanting to go very far from their
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Dear Brenda, Art, Joe and Mike: We just finished the long drive home to Western Massachusetts and, thanks to you, our canoe camping trip to the French River ended on a positive note. I wish there
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"Ever since I was a young boy I always had fond memories heading north and fishing with my brother in Ontario," says Art Barefoot (Co-Owner of Bear's Den Lodge). "From the people, the sights, and even
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More women are enjoying the sport of fishing. Consider taking your daughter to enjoy the great outdoors. Support the Great Canadian Female Anglers by ordering your 2017 Great Canadian Female Angler's
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Since 1982, the Ontario Trillium Foundation has been dedicated to supporting Ontario’s non-profits who drive positive change.
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Destination Northern Ontario is one of 13 not-for-profit regional tourism organizations funded by the Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. We are the largest tourism region in geography, the second largest in expenditure and the only region that includes sub-regions.
Destination Northern Ontario coordinates, aligns and invests in sub-regional programs and leads in identified pan-northern management functions; co-ordination of marketing, product development, workforce and industry training, and investment attraction with the ultimate goal to significantly increase tourism revenues in Northern Ontario. Increased visitation and yield are achieved by delivering programs designed to enhance existing tourism products and developing new tourism opportunities for the North. -
CFN is all about showcasing Canadian Fishing & fishing responsibly. If you have the same passion, join our mission. Supply us with articles, pictures or videos and whenever possible join us at shows and help spread the love of fishing.
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Parry Sound & Area Food Collaborative. Healthy & Sustainable Food System.
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Events, news, visiting French River, Ontario & Land of the Voyagers.
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Conservation & Education Georgian Bay Biosphere.
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The Great Canadian Wilderness, Just North of Toronto. Head Out for Adventure!
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Welcome to the Northern Ontario Tourism Industry information website.
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TNO is the largest of 13 Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs) funded by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport
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North America’s Premier Fishing & Destination Show!
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From the French River to the James Bay Coast, there is no denying our Northeastern region is BIG.
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Great cities, great attractions, great outdoors – so many possibilities in all four seasons. Explore the possibilities in Northern Ontario.
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GCFA has had the pleasure of teaching & sharing fishing experiences with female anglers from all over Canada.
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Explore fishing, cottages & resorts on the French River, Canada.
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A river of national historic significance, the French River is the first designated Canadian Heritage River
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Welcome to Destination Canada’s official travel guide to Canada. Bienvenue dans le guide touristique officiel de Destination Canada.
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Situated at the entrance to the North Channel amidst sparkling white quartzite peaks and pink granite
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Make sure you check the Ontario Parks before heading out
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YOUR Canadian COTTAGE FOR YOUR NEXT GETAWAY! French River Cottages available May, 2021 - 0ctober 2021. 3 day minimum charge per person applies. Prevailing rates available for shorter stays. Less than 3 days have added charges and are available. Make memories with family and friends on the French River, arrive as guests and leave as family!
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Your hosts, Art & Brenda Barefoot
Bear's Den Lodge
2870J Hartley Bay Rd.
Alban, Ont. P0M 1A0
Tel: (705) 857-2757
Winter Address:
124 Shagbark Rd.
Alum Bank, PA 15521
Tel: (814) 839-2443
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