Wednesday, December 8, 2010

“Ice Fishing, The Ultimate Guide”

The Ink is Dry, Actually Frozen on "Ice Fishing, The Ultimate Guide"

New ice fishing book is turning heads like tripped tip-ups in a mob of anxious anglers

Ottawa, OntarioIce Fishing –The Ultimate Guide is the edgiest and most comprehensive guide to help ice fishing enthusiasts catch more and bigger fish. Winter fishing

technology and strategies are advancing at a blistering pace and this new 214-page book covers everything from timeless ice fishing basics to the latest techniques.

"Whether you are an ice fishing novice or pro, there is something in this book for you," says Bob Izumi, host of The Real Fishing Show.

Inside, readers will be enchanted by over 200 full-color photos that portray the spirit and science of modern ice fishing. Part reference guide, part coffee table book, Ice Fishing – The Ultimate Guide is the perfect Christmas gift for any angler, and "a great tool for the modern ice angler," says Brian "Bro" Brosdahl, ice fishing pioneer and iconic northwoods guide.

Written by outdoors author/photographer and ice-fishing fanatic, Tim Allard, Ice Fishing – The Ultimate Guide talks the talk and walks the walk on contemporary ice fishing clothing, electronics, on-the-ice safety, seasonal techniques, the newest gear, and chapter after chapter of species-specific coverage of North America's most sought after fish. Readers will also appreciate the contributions from over 20 of North America's most respected hardwater experts, such as Gord Ellis, Noel Vick, Dave Genz, not to mention the signature quality publishing that is The Heliconia Press.

To see a sample from the book online click here.

Purchasing Information

$24.95 US/CDN

ISBN number: 978-1-896980-49-2

Available direct from Heliconia (click here), at national book chains like Amazon, Chapters, Barnes & Noble; and specialty outdoor stores.

For wholesale inquiries or to request a media review copy contact: Brendan@helipress.com or call toll free 888-582-2001

About Tim Allard:

Tim Allard is a full-time outdoor journalist and a regular contributor to numerous North American publications, visit www.timallard.ca

Friday, July 9, 2010

Floating Down the River – 10 Tips for Relaxing Drift Fishing

The rain has started to fall and we just hit the tail end of the first true heat wave of our Southern Ontario Summer. We're also nearly at the end of National Fishing Week. This year Ontario extended the license-free fishing period from just a weekend to the whole week, giving newcomers to this great outdoors activity a chance to explore Ontario's vast fishing resources without the need to purchase a license. This program has become a true success story and is sure to keep growing in popularity.

A great way to enjoy these hot hazy days of summer is the float trip. I know that to some the term may conjure up images of drift boats and guides but it wasn't always that way. Although the services of a guide makes for a pleasant outing and you're almost guaranteed to get into some quality fish if you follow the suggestions of your guide, the float fishing I'm talking about is about a relaxing drift down a lazy river and being happy to catch whatever happens to tug on your line. In Southern Ontario this can be anything from bass and walleye to creek chub, suckers, catfish, and carp.

There is no need for fancy equipment, a couple of lures or a hook and can of worms, and some means of transportation (canoe, kayak, inflatable, etc.) is all you need. If you plan on drifting a significant distance it is advisable to take two cars: leave one at your destination – typically near a bridge that crosses the river; and drive the other one and the canoe upstream to your starting point.

Now you're set for a day of relaxation with no timeframe, just a relaxing drift down the river to your takeout point. You can cast lures into deeper pools along the shoreline or drift with worms through deeper runs, and you'll never know what you might latch onto. A couple of years ago my buddy latched onto a huge carp that actually pulled our canoe a good distance back upstream.

Here are a few tips to make your Southern Ontario drift safe and enjoyable:

  1. Wear your life jacket!
  2. No alcohol; but do take plenty of liquid refreshment on a hot day.
  3. Wear waterproof footwear like sandals or water slippers. Water levels can be low during mid-summer and you will likely have to walk through short shallow stretches on most Southern Ontario rivers.
  4. Pack a lunch or snacks…make a day of it and don't rush.
  5. Watch the weather. If rain or, especially thunder storms are imminent you might want to shoot for another day.
  6. Wear a hat that will shade your face and neck. And don't forget the sunscreen and packing some insect repellent might be a good idea.
  7. Did I mention Wear your Lifejacket?
  8. If you are alone or only have one car it's best to head upstream first and then drift back to your starting point.
  9. Check a map and be aware of the actual distance you plan to travel. Many Southern Ontario Rivers have huge oxbow bends in them; it may be only a couple of kilometers between bridges by car, but the actual distance on the river can easily be several kilometers.
  10. Be sure someone knows where you're going and when you plan to be back. Take your cell phone but keep it in a waterproof container or plastic bag.

I hope you get a chance to try this relaxing effortless way to explore Southern Ontario's rivers this summer. Leave a comment on our blog and tell us about your adventures. Have a safe enjoyable summer.

©2010 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Monday, April 19, 2010

10 Tips for a Successful Southern Ontario Fishing Getaway

All through the late winter and spring plans were carefully made, fishing tackle cleaned, hooks and lures sharpened, line replaced, maps studied and likely hotspots carefully marked. Finally there we were. But, somehow the idyllic setting on the brochure turns into a broken down cabin, chairs with one leg shorter than the other three, beds that came out of a WW II army surplus store, a leaky boat with a motor that had seen its prime before you were born, and two members of our foursome had begun arguing when we were still halfway there.

Most of us don't have the luxury of going on a fishing trip more than once or twice a year, and you can drastically improve the odds of your dreams becoming reality by considering some of the pitfalls and taking time to plan properly.

Here are 10 quick tips that will help ensure an enjoyable fishing trip for you and your companions:

  1. Hope for the best; but plan for the worst! Sometimes the rain does fall and the mosquitoes get hungry.
  2. Chose your companions wisely. This may well be the most important decision you will make. Nothing ruins a fishing trip quicker than people squabbling.
  3. Decide on the type of trip you want and be sure you all agree. Do you need a boat? Do you want your meals prepared for you? How far are you prepared to drive? Do you want to fly in to a remote lake? There are many choices and it's important that you and your companions share a common vision.
  4. Choose your accommodation wisely. Ask lots of questions and get responses in writing.
  5. Decide how you will share the costs. Take everything from groceries to bait, to gas for the car, and damage to equipment into consideration.
  6. Be sure everyone is willing to participate in the chores. Many a fun fishing vacation has been ruined by someone not willing to pull their weight.
  7. Plan your menu and appoint a competent shopper. You don't need to live on chips and pretzels. A camp cook is a great idea but consider their contribution when you split up the expenses.
  8. Determine the best time of year for your trip. Aside from finding a mutually acceptable time for you and your companions, the species of fish you want to catch will determine the best time of year for your trip. Do your homework.
  9. Learn about your destination. You might find that exploring the area is a nice break, especially if the weather turns nasty.
  10. Don't forget your fishing pole and tackle. It has happened, and you don't want to start your trip off with a visit to the local tackle shop to buy new equipment.

Planning can be half the fun and following these simple tips will ensure that the trip is just as much fun as the planning. Make your plans carefully and have a great fishing trip in Southern Ontario's great outdoors.

©2010 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Friday, January 29, 2010

Belwood Lake Ice Fishing - Fergus and Elora

Do you ever find yourself in a situation where you want to spend the day immersed in nature, casting for trout, or sitting on a frozen lake waiting for a nice pike to make your drag sing, but your significant other has, shall we say…other plans. As I write this post it’s -15c in Southwestern Ontario, the lakes are hard as a rock and the fish are waiting.

Well if your idea of relaxation on a cold winter’s day differs from that of your spouse I just may have the compromise you’re looking for. Head to Belwood Lake just outside the town of Fergus where you can ply the frozen depths while those less inclined spend a great day browsing the shops and sites of beautiful Fergus and Elora.

Nestled along the scenic banks of the upper Grand River the towns of Fergus and Elora boast unique shops, great scenery, and fantastic restaurants. The towns abound with artisans of all kinds and you’re sure to find something to please any taste.

Belwood Lake is a man-made flood control reservoir administered by the Grand River Conservation Authority and is just upstream of the town of Fergus. Live bait and ice hut rentals are available and the ice fishing is great. As with all good things there is often a downside; it is quite conceivable that you will run out of bait before your spouse runs out of cash and there is always the chance that you could be forgotten altogether.

Oh well, there are plenty of great B&Bs available in the area, so why not make a weekend of it. Whatever your preference, get out and enjoy our great Southern Ontario Outdoors.

©2009 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions