Freshwater Fishing

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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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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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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Author Joe Barefoot, M.B. holding a French River in the early spring before being released.

Spawning Walleye: What You Should Know

Fishing, Fishing French River, Fishing Tips, Freshwater Fishing, Walleye /

What are the most interesting aspects of a Walleye? Some may imagine hooking into a trophy 20-pounder. Others may just think they taste delicious fried or on the grill. Sure, that’s Walleye, Canada’s favourite freshwater fish. However, have you considered their adaptability and what lends to their elusive and sometimes mysterious behaviour? Walleye spawn in

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Comparison Image between Northern Pike vs Walleye. Both fish were caught in the French River, Northern Ontario Canada

Pike vs Walleye: Which to Catch and Why?

Fishing, Fishing French River, Fishing Tips, Freshwater Fishing, Northern Pike, Pickerel, Pike, Walleye /

So, what are the differences between Pike and Walleye? Or how does Pike taste compared to Walleye? Having lived most of my life in a fishing camp in Northern Ontario these are some of the many common questions I’m asked by novice anglers. There are many differences between the two species from their appearance, hunting

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Image displaying the difference between Northern Pike and Longnose Gar. Image on the left shows a woman holding a Pike. The other image on the right shows a man holding a Longnose Gar. Both images were captured in the French River Provincial Park in Northeastern Ontario Canada

Northern Pike vs Longnose Gar: The Toothiest Fish in Ontario

Fishing, Fishing French River, Fishing Tips, French River Provincial Park, Freshwater Fishing, How To, Longnose Gar, Northern Pike, Pike, Tips & Tricks /

Did you ever wonder if a Gar or a Pike are the same species? Looking at them, they both have long, slender bodies, sharp teeth, and voracious appetites. But don’t let their looks fool you. They’re very different fish, with different origins, habitats, and fishing methods. I’ve worked in Ontario’s fishing industry for nearly two

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Image of a sexual mature male sea lamprey. The adults' skin colours change like salmon with the male lamprey developing a "rope-ridge" across their back.

Sea Lamprey: A Parasitic Pest in the French River and Beyond

Conservation, Fishing, Fishing French River, Fishing Tips, French River Delta, French River Provincial Park, Freshwater Fishing, Georgian Bay, Great Canadian Wilderness, How To, Report, Tips & Tricks /

Sea lampreys are vampiric invasive species that have caused significant damage to the native fish populations in the Great Lakes. The French River in Northeastern Ontario is one of the many waterways they have invaded. While sea lampreys are monitored and population controlled by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) and Fisheries and

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A young boy in cold weather clothing holding a French River Walleye.

Cold Water Walleye Fishing: Everything You Need to Know

Fishing, Fishing French River, Fishing Tips, Freshwater Fishing, Pickerel, Tips & Tricks, Walleye /

Imagine hooking a fish that can weigh up to 20 pounds, fight like a bull, and tastes like a delicacy. For many, this is the allure of cold water Walleye fishing, Ontario’s most coveted freshwater fish. However, catching Walleye in cold water is not as easy as it sounds. These fish are masters of adaptation

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