Where to take a kid fishing
NOT FAR TO GO FOR CITY DWELLERS
Morris Island
Kars RA Centre
Dows Lake
By Don Wilcox
If you grew up in a small town on a lake or river , you probably remember “ the fishing hole .” On summer days , families and kids flocked there to enjoy fishing , picnics and fun . But in the city , where are spots like these to introduce children to the sport ? Never fear , we ’ re here to help .
The National Capital Region is blessed with incredible angling , much of it right at our front door . I ’ ve put together a personal list of seven spots to take kids fishing , but there are many others . You can get to most of them by public transit or bicycle . All are within 30 minutes or less of the urban area . First a few reminders about kids and fishing :
• Children don ’ t need to catch lunkers , panfish will do fine and provide faster action .
• Bring lots of snacks and drinks .
• Kids have short attention spans , so don ’ t try to fish non-stop for four hours ( that ’ s why my sites all offer other activities and attractions ).
• If you ’ re not keeping the fish , press down the barbs on the hooks to make them easier to remove from the fish ( and the kids ; accidents happen ).
• In Ontario and Quebec , children under 18 generally do not need a fishing licence , but adults must be licensed and have it with them ( check those regulations ).
• Hats , sunscreen , bug repellant and PFDs are important !
Now , get out there and give your kids the time of their lives !
MORRIS ISLAND CONSERVATION AREA , WEST OTTAWA
Morris Island Drive outside Galetta via Highway 417 and old Highway 17
This gorgeous site features a walking trail through the middle of a bay , allowing access to a large fishable area . Lots of deer , foxes , fishers , turtles and snakes . Walking trails , washrooms , picnic tables . Donations accepted at entry point .
Panfish , bass , walleye , northern pike , muskie and prehistoric-looking gar pike can be caught . www . mvc . on . ca / places-to-see / morris-island
FIVE-SPAN BRIDGE PARK
4916 Kinburn Side Road , Pakenham Named for the historic stone bridge over the Mississippi River , this park is alongside rapids which empty into a reservoir . Large play area for kids but
26 | FISH , HUNT RIDE www . fishhuntandride . ca