“T” minus 1 and counting ! (by the way, why do they say “T” and what does the “T” stand for ?).
Put your combat gear on because trout season in Ontario opens tomorrow! To that end we would appreciate fellow anglers bringing a healthy dose of consideration with them onto the water this year. What do we mean you ask ?
First, follow the golden rule – treat others as you would like to be treated (aka – don’t be a jerk).
Secondly, if you get to a river and find someone in the pool you had planned to fish, ask them (politely) if they would mind rotating through the pool. If they don’t know what that means you can (politely) explain that the first angler takes a step after each cast (or as agreed) and the second angler falls in behind doing the same. Each angler then has an opportunity to fish the pool without disturbing the other. However, if you are the person asking it is at the discretion of the first angler as to whether this will be permitted.
Thirdly, please practice catch and release. Put them back so others may also enjoy our sport for many years to come. That means learning how to properly handle fish (cradle them gently if you must and try to never pick fish up by their gills) and use single, barbless hooks.
Fourthly, respect private property and never trespass. That said, I know from experience that you would be surprised at how many landowners permit access on their land when asked politely. Go ahead – knock on the door because the worst that will happen is they will say ‘no’ and the best will be you make a new friend and fish some new water !
Fifthly, recognize that it is the responsibility of those who use Ontario’s water and fishing resources to care for them. If you see something untoward or just downright wrong, speak up.
Lastly, don’t forget to have fun ! Slow down and enjoy life. Fly fishing isn’t about how many fish you catch or the largest fish, it is about enjoying a day on the water. Enjoy your journey and send us your stories – we appreciate receiving pictures and sharing laughs with friends and if you fly fish you are a friend!
Tight Lines & Enjoy the Season !
Jim
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