How To

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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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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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 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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French River Walleye caught near weeds during a rainy day.

Weed Out the Walleye: Strategies for Fishing in the Salad

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

“Weed Walleyes” is a term used to describe walleyes that are found in or around vegetation on lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. While walleye are known for their preference for deep water and rocky structures, they are also found in shallow weed beds (salad) throughout the season. Walleye Fishing in Weeds Most Walleye anglers using traditional

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