Choosing a Canadian Fishing Package
Fishing packages to Canada come in all shapes and sizes. Most of what you need to make a decision is explained in the lodge or outfitter’s brochure, but unwanted surprises tend to lead to hard feelings. Below are a few things you should find out to help make your trip more pleasant.
- What
charges are not included in the package price?
Almost all locations require cash payment. And few things are more disturbing [or embarrassing] than coming up short when it comes time to pay the bill. I was on one trip where one guy brought his checkbook and another brought just enough cash to pay what he thought would be due. What a mess!For example, if the brochure says the cost of an American plan trip is $1,200, ask what other charges there will or might be. Are taxes included? If not, you’ll need an additional $84 for the sales tax plus some more for provincial taxes. Is your fishing license included? Using live bait? Minnows at $4-$5 a dozen can really add up! Using a guide? Don’t forget the tip. Is food included in with an outpost trip? Want to do a little night fishing? Some lodges charge extra boat rental for this. Let’s face it, some lodge and outpost owners toss around nickels like they were manhole covers, so its best to ask up front. The answers will help you pick the trip that’s right for your budget.
- Besides
clothes, tackle and money, what do I need to bring?
I’m not talking about cameras and cards, I mean essential fishing gear. Canadian law now requires life vests when boating, not just floatation cushions, and a boat safety kit. Are these provided? Do they supply landing nets? What about wrapping paper for the fish you are taking home? Do the cabins have sleeping bags or do you need to bring your own? My rule is – if its not specifically mentioned in the brochure, it’s probably not included, so ask!
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Are the guides full time or part time?
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What special fishing rules are there?
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Is live bait available?
If you are thinking using a guide, find out what you are getting for the money. Some places have full time guides, some don’t and some have a mix. It is quite common for guides to be flown in and out as needed. I’ll never forget the trip where we had a first time "guide." After shore lunch, one group wanted to go back to the lodge and rest. As they left, I looked at my partner and asked, "aren’t they headed the wrong way?" Well, to make it short, after an afternoon of fishing, we still got back before them!
And speaking of guides, if you get a good one, treat him right! These guys are driving the boat, picking the spots, netting the fish [often even baiting the hook!], filleting the fish, cooking the shore lunch, and cleaning the boat! For a 4 or 5 day trip, I’d say that a $100 tip would be the absolute minimum for good service. On the other hand, if you get a lazy whiner, let the camp owner know.
Many lakes have special rules, so don’t forget to ask. Whether a lake is catch and release or catch and keep is a fairly obvious question to ask. Some places, though, require barbless hooks. Others have unique size requirements. You might want to know these things before you get there! [Don’t forget, the take home limit for walleye and northerns has dropped from 6 to 4.]
Surprisingly, many resorts and outfitters, particularly fly-ins, do not keep live bait on hand. If you’re like me and believe in a jig and minnow, be sure to ask. Most places will supply live bait upon request. You can bring in leeches and worms, but minnows are illegal immigrants.