Getting out the fishing tackle is a sure sign of spring
April 1 is the start of the freshwater fishing season throughout Atlantic Canada. It’s a springtime ritual that many Saltscapers cherish. It’s not a stretch to say they live for it. Long before the snow stops falling and the bitter winter winds go silent, these hardy Saltscapers are counting the days until the end of March. For these daring adventurers, there’s nothing else quite like the thrill of getting their gear ready and heading out to their favourite fishing hole as they hope to land that elusive trophy they’ve dreamt about throughout the long, dreary winter.
The most popular sport fishing species in Nova Scotia is brook trout, also called speckled trout, the official fish of the province. In New Brunswick, striped bass are among the most popular. In Prince Edward Island, anglers favour brook trout, which are native to the island. Unsurprisingly, then, the most popular sport fishing species in Newfoundland and Labrador is also brook trout.
Saltscaper Dennis Lavender, who lives in Liverpool, N.S., has been fishing the lakes and rivers throughout Atlantic Canada for more than 65 years. He says there is no finer fishing anywhere in the country than right here in our region.
“Pick a province,” Dennis says. Noting that he’s fished in each of them, he agrees there’s no need to travel outside the Atlantic region for a place to drop your line this spring. For those hardy Saltscapers thinking about dipping their lines in the water for the first time, Dennis has a few tips to get you started.
Be prepared. Springtime in Atlantic Canada is often cold and wet. Make sure you dress for the season to stay warm and dry. “Nothing will ruin your fishing experience more than chattering teeth,” he points out.
Wear the right boots. Dennis emphasizes that just as it’s important to dress for fishing, proper footwear is vital. “No one wants wet feet when they’re fishing,” he says. “It’s a surefire way to ruin your trip.”
Check your gear. While you’re waiting for the season to arrive, ensure all your gear is in good working order. You’ll need a casting rod, spinners, and a fishing lure. Dennis recommends one called a Super Duper. “They work like magic,” he says, because they mimic the swimming action of a small fish, and trout and other species find them irresistible.
Know your bait. Dennis points out live bait works the best when trout fishing, but you should do your research.
Watch the water levels. For the best springtime fishing, Dennis suggests you want to see it “a little bit higher” than normal.
Know where you’re going. Be sure to scope out your location before the season starts. “You want to know everything you can learn about the brook or lake you’re going to be fishing in,” Dennis says. “You don’t want any surprises when you’re out their enjoying the sport.”
When looking for the best place to drop your hook, he suggests finding a spot where the river or brook dumps into a lake. “The fish will lay there and wait,” he says.
Be aware of the elements. Springtime in Atlantic Canada means bugs and flies. “Bug spray is your best friend when you’re fishing,” he stresses.
For people like Dennis, fishing is a part of who they are. “It’s in our blood and we live for it,” he says. “Once you try it, you’ll be hooked too.”
Now, you’re ready. Off you go. Happy fishing!