If you've been waiting for trout season to rebound after the heat of July, this may be your opportunity.
Trout Fishing Returns to Freestone Rivers
Last weekend's rain, combined with several cool overnight temperatures, has made a noticeable difference on many of our freestone trout rivers. Systems like the Credit River, Whiteman's Creek, and several smaller tributaries have cooled enough to provide a safe window for catch-and-release trout fishing during the early part of the day.
The key word is early.
While overnight temperatures have dropped significantly, daytime highs are still reaching the upper 20s. That means river temperatures can climb quickly once the sun gets high. If you're planning to chase trout this weekend, focus on the morning hours and expect to be off the water by late morning before temperatures become stressful for the fish.
As always, carry a thermometer and monitor water temperatures throughout your outing. If the water approaches 20°C (68°F), it's time to call it a day. Responsible temperature management is one of the most important ways anglers can help protect wild trout populations during the summer months.
The Upper Grand Has Warmed Up
Water temperatures coming directly out of Shand Dam have now climbed above the 20°C threshold, meaning downstream sections are warming even further throughout the day. For that reason, we recommend giving trout in the Upper Grand a break until cooler conditions return.
That doesn't mean you should avoid the river altogether, however.
The Upper Grand still offers excellent opportunities for warmwater species like bass and carp, and those fisheries continue to fish well throughout August.
Bass Fishing Continues to Produce
Bass remain one of the most dependable options across southern Ontario.
By this point in the season, fish on many popular lakes have seen plenty of pressure, so making small adjustments to your presentation can have a big impact on success.
Concentrating your efforts around heavy cover where bass feel comfortable during the heat of the day can be a great strategy, especially for largemouth bass. Docks, weed edges, fallen timber and lily pads all provide shade and security while also holding baitfish and crayfish.
It's also a great time to downsize your flies.
Smaller streamers and more subtle presentations often outperform the large, flashy flies that dominate early in the season. On clear lakes especially, a more natural presentation can convince fish that have already seen countless lures and flies throughout the summer.
Early Chinook Salmon Are Beginning to Appear
Perhaps the most exciting development this week is the first sign that salmon season is beginning.
We've already started hearing reports of early Chinook salmon being caught around river mouths and pier areas. Recent rainfall and cooler overnight temperatures are exactly the kind of conditions that encourage the first fish to begin staging near tributaries.
We're still very early in the run, so don't expect large numbers of fish just yet. However, dedicated anglers willing to put in the time may already find some fresh salmon moving into some systems.
For anglers fishing from shore, this is an excellent time to focus on river mouths and pier areas where fish are still holding in the cooler waters of the lake before making their upstream migration.
If you do target salmon in the rivers, remember that they are still coldwater fish. Just like trout, they are vulnerable to high water temperatures. Fish during the coolest parts of the day, monitor water temperatures, and avoid targeting salmon if conditions become too warm.
Time to Prepare for Fall
Even if you aren't planning to chase the first salmon this weekend, now is the perfect time to start preparing for the months ahead.
September is only a few weeks away, and southern Ontario's salmon season arrives quickly. Taking the time now to organize your gear, tie flies, replace leaders and prepare your equipment will leave you ready when the main runs begin.
Between improving trout conditions, dependable bass fishing and the first hints of salmon season, August is shaping up to be an exciting transition month for anglers across the province.
As always, if you need help deciding where to fish, choosing the right flies, or getting geared up for the upcoming salmon season, stop by the shop or get in touch. We'd be happy to help.
See you on the water!
