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Even though the muskie and bass seasons are the last to open, they account for probably more angling hours each summer than all other fish species.
As we know, our local bass fishing circuit continues to thrive, while the muskellunge fishing opportunities we have locally are some of the best in North America. Those anglers wanting to become seriously involved with bass fishing must check out Renegade Bass, Petawawa Bassmasters or the Canadian Fishing Tour, and start the season off on the right foot. For those patient folks interested in the fabled fish of 10,000 casts, the best launching pad into “muskie hunting” is with the organization Muskies Canada Inc. The muskie season kicks off next weekend over much of our region, followed by bass the weekend after. Regardless which species you choose to target, you’ll surely find ample opportunity a short distance from town.
Mecca in Quebeca: Dave Hickman and his fishing partner Bruce were not deterred in the slightest by the elements during this year’s Mecca in Quebeca. Hickman’s annual four-day fishing trip across the river turned out great despite the continuous rainfall. Dave and his buddy Bruce fished steady all four days and it certainly paid off for them. The boys trolled the shoals and bays and even did some jigging; to the tune of 133 nice lake trout. The rain did let up twice; just long enough to allow snow showers to pass through. The rest of the Mecca group found it somewhat difficult to land trout from the warmth of the cabin, but Dave didn’t really mind—it meant more fish for him. Besides a couple of great fish fries and the pair of fish they were allowed to take home, all the trout were released to get bigger for next year.
Canadian Rivers Day: If you care about your natural resources, come celebrate Canadian Rivers Day this Sunday on the Ottawa River. The Ottawa Riverkeeper and Canadian Heritage Rivers System will be celebrating with a guided paddle on the river from Victoria Island to Petrie Island. They hope to get a turnout of at least 50 canoes, including two Voyageur canoes; a symbol of celebrating and caring about the river. The celebration kicks off at 9:30 a.m. at Victoria Island where Meredith Brown and Becky Mason will greet you. During the paddle, experts will discuss the history, ecology, shoreline development and water quality of the Ottawa River. The celebration is free of charge. However, donations to the Ottawa Riverkeeper are encouraged and there will also be some great door prizes.Midwest bear attack: A 500-lb. black bear entered an Ohio-area home recently and attacked a woman. The escaped bear strolled into a neighbour’s garage and chased a teenage girl into her house. The girl’s mother, Rachel Supplee, 36, was subsequently attacked by the bear in a nearby room. The bear was nine years old and spent its entire life in captivity, making it unafraid of people. The owner, Mark Gutman, a commercial game breeder, was attempting to enter the bear’s cage to clean it when the animal escaped. The animal was eventually lured out of the house by Gutman and shot to death. The woman is said to be in satisfactory condition at St. Elizabeth Health Center in Youngstown, Ohio. No charges had yet been laid against the breeder, and the victim is expected to fully recover.
Tests return: Back by popular demand is the summer series of outdoor products put to the “field test.” Many of these gadgets are keepers, while others I would rather just throw back. Tune in next week!
jeffm@mail.magma.ca