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 …
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 …
Northern Pike vs Longnose Gar: The Toothiest Fish in Ontario Read More »
Hi Brenda and Bears Den Team, Just wanted to extend a sincere thanks for an incredible and memorable trip to the French River. The highlight of course was the tale of the legend that got away (for now). While reeling in a hammer handle sized pike a giant musky shot up from the depths and …
French River Muskie Legend That Got Away (For Now) Read More »
Have you ever wondered if the last Muskie or Pike you caught was male or female? It’s a common question that everyone has when you’re learning about trophy freshwater fishing. Gendering a Muskie or Pike is quite simple, have them fill out a form! Sexual differences between Female & Male Muskies Jokes aside, the simplest …
Canada has held a long tradition of conservation. It first started with First Nations (Native Americans). Next, was the movement of university-trained foresters and industry leaders near the end of the 19th century. The work of “Canada’s first celebrity conservationist”, Jack Miner, led to the Canada-US Convention Protecting Migratory Birds. This paved the way for future conservationists …
What’s the difference between Pike and Pickerel? A seemingly simple question but one that can have confusing answers depending on where you are. I grew up in a fishing camp in Northeastern Ontario, Canada and had great opportunities to meet many individuals from all across the US, Canada, UK, Australia and many other countries. …
Muskie and Northern Pike are North America’s two favourite trophy game fish. Both swim silently through the turbid waters of the French River, Ontario. Before exploding into action, striking unsuspecting prey from cover. At a glance, these two slender and toothy apex freshwater predators can be easily mistaken for the other. Just like walleye …
Spring is a lively and a prime fishing time for northern pike on the French River. In Northern Ontario, after the spawn is a period that offers excellent odds for catching trophies; as well as catching copious amounts of energetic young-lings. Depending on weather and water temperatures, a variety of fishing patterns and baits are …
On his first trip to Bear’s Den Lodge, 10 year old Tommy L. caught this 24 pound, 47” musky on a white spinnerbait. In addition, a total of 131 pike were boated by the group in 3 days of fishing with his father and grandfather on the French River. A trip that Tommy will never …
4 Tips for Spring pike fishing from local legendary French River fisherman & guide, Art Barefoot – owner of Bear’s Den Lodge. 1.Look in the shallow dark bottom bays along the edge of emerging weed beds. 2. Great lures to use at this time of the year are spinnerbaits in white, yellow or chartreuse with …
