In this high-energy episode, Jesse and Andrew sit down with full-time Georgian Bay fishing guide Matt Martin for a deep dive into the wild world of multi-species angling. From the explosive strikes of northern pike to the prehistoric thrill of sight-fishing for gar, Matt shares his expert strategies, hilarious guiding experiences, and hard-earned tips for targeting some of Ontario’s most underrated species.

You’ll learn:

•  How to locate and target big pike based on water temps, seasonal patterns, and lure selection
•  Why gar fishing is a must-try — and how to sight-cast to these ancient, toothy missiles
•  How fly fishing for carp is the ultimate freshwater challenge (think bonefish… but in your backyard)

Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking to expand your fishing game, this episode is packed with expert insights, real talk, and a few laughs along the way.

Mentioned in Episode: 

• Composite Angling - https://www.instagram.com/composite_angling/?api=postMessagehttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fp%2FC6ik27WJvMP%2F%3Fapi%3DpostMessage
• Matt Martin Steelhead Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2141377/episodes/16575954-steelhead-get-dialed-in

Find Matt Martin: 

• Website: https://www.smoothriver.ca/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smooth.river.guiding/?hl=en

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this episode Andrew and Jesse sit down with fishing guide Brian Johnston for a deep dive into the essentials of successful walleye fishing in Ontario and focusing on the Halliburton area.  

Brian shares his journey in the fishing world and offers practical advice for anglers of all skill levels. The conversation covers key topics like how weather impacts fish behavior, how to choose the right rod, reel, and tackle for different scenarios, and why understanding water structure can make or break your day on the water.

The group also discusses the value of using electronics, how to avoid common mistakes, and why confidence and technique often matter more than the gear you’re using. This is a great listen for anyone who wants to better understand walleye—and how to catch more of them!

Find Brian Johnston:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haliburtonfishingguide/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BRJfishing/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HookedonHaliburton

Website: https://www.haliburtonfishingguide.ca/

Mentioned in Episode: 

Megabass 110 jr. - https://tacklebros.ca/products/megabass-vision-oneten-1-jr?srsltid=AfmBOopQA5ek1b-2582jYK2_UoJeCziKLqMy5YJqONzq6wtNpraO422O

Gremlins Hair Jigs: https://www.facebook.com/gremlinscustombaits/

Nishine Smelthead: https://tacklebros.ca/products/nishine-lure-works-smelt-head?srsltid=AfmBOopvM_oo8errwGTnWed3BK0F5soVpdeb6PU6uDAJdUqQYL0sQvln

Megabass Hasedong Shad: https://tacklebros.ca/products/hazedong-shad-3?srsltid=AfmBOop146ZMLxNILXLhKr9H8JIcUxlNMTfOSuIpK9PmOINKLQ4R6pms

Keitech Swimbait: https://tacklebros.ca/products/keitech-fat-swing-impact-2-8?_pos=4&_psq=kei&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Daiwa Canadian Custom Spinning Rod: https://www.gagnonsports.com/daiwa-24-cdn-custom-spinning-rod.html

Daiwa Tatula XT Spinning Rod: https://www.gagnonsports.com/daiwa-tatula-xt-spinning-rod.html

Daiwa TD Eye Spinning Rod: https://www.gagnonsports.com/76-med-light-ex-fast.html

These are not affiliate links. If you do purchase any of these from these shops please mention we sent ya! 

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

We made it to triple digits! In this special 100th episode, Jesse and Andrew celebrate the milestone with a jam-packed deep dive into the world of walleye fishing. Joining them is walleye whisperer and Tactical Fishing Gear founder Derrick Soulliere, who shares decades of experience fishing the legendary Detroit River.

From his early days chasing fish to becoming a gear guru, Derrick unpacks the secrets of sonar, the science behind braid choice, and why jigging in strong current separates the rookies from the veterans. He also unveils a brand-new Tactical swimbait that’s got multi-species versatility written all over it.

Expect tactical tips for spring and summer walleye fishing, advice for beginners, shore fishing strategies, and why weather should be your best friend (or worst enemy) on the water. Oh, and there’s a giveaway… because what’s a celebration without free stuff?

Tactical Fishing Gear:

Website: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tacticalfishinggear_/

Mentioned in Episode:

- 7'2 M Powershot Spinning rod: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/power-shot

- 7'2 MH XF Tube Special: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/tube-special

- 7'6 ML XF Finesse Special: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/ned-special

- 9'6 XH Musky Rod - https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/muskie-casting

- 3.5" Tactical Swimbait: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/shop-now/p/35-tactical-swimbait-coming-soon

- Combat Swimmer Musky Swimbait: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/shop-now/p/new-combat-swimmer-9

- Tactical Minnow Split Tail: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/tactical-minnow

Special thanks to Derrick for supplying an amazing giveaway for this episode. To enter please find more information on our Patreon page.

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this episode Andrew and Jesse are joined by returning guest Bobby Belmonte of 2B Fishing Guiding Service. Bobby breaks down everything you need to know about spring crappie fishing. They dive into crappie behavior during the spawn, the best spots to find them, and what techniques work best. Bobby shares expert advice on essential gear, bait selection and how to use electronics to locate fish more effectively. The guys also chat about loon facts, answer listener questions and listen to ai generated crappie fishing slogans. 

This episode is brought to you by Lunkerhunt

Website: https://lunkerhunt.com/

Discount code: Lunkerhunt 20% Off: AOA2025!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lunkerhunt/

Find Bobby Belmonte:

Website: https://2bfishing.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/2b_fishing/

Mentioned:

- Megabass X70 Slow Float Jerkbait: https://tacklebros.ca/products/megabass-x-70-jerkbait?_pos=1&_psq=x+70&_ss=e&_v=1.0&variant=42720333496365

- Megabass Griffin Crankbait: https://tacklebros.ca/products/megabass-sr-x-griffon-bfs?_pos=11&_fid=4bb3b3d1c&_ss=c

- Rapala X Rap: https://www.rapala.ca/ca_en/x-rap?srsltid=AfmBOopv5krflOUhv15FwYUhhQQu3AfDenPqHdGHXSV3CrEin5cjzS_b

- Lunkerhunt Bento Bait: https://lunkerhunt.com/collections/soft-baits/products/bento-bait?variant=32118446948430

- Lunkerhunt Hive Micro Wiggler: https://lunkerhunt.com/collections/soft-baits/products/hive-micro-wiggler

Lunkerhunt Flicker Worm: https://lunkerhunt.com/collections/soft-baits/products/flicker-worm

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

Jesse and Andrew are joined by renowned fishing content creator Jay Siemens for a deep dive into the world of small craft fishing. They discuss the advantages of kayaks, canoes and small boats for accessing remote waters, essential safety gear, and useful modifications to enhance the experience. Jay shares his journey in content creation, and the importance of storytelling in fishing videos. A listener Q&A covers fishing techniques, gear preferences, and insights into fish behaviour. Tune in for expert tips, great stories, and plenty of laughs!

Special thanks to the CanCast Fishing Show and Daiwa Canada for supporting this show, make sure to check out our Patreon (Link Below) to see how to enter our giveaways. 

Cancast Fishing Show (March 30th) - http://www.cancast.show/

Daiwa Website: https://daiwa.us/

Find Jay Siemens:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JaySiemens
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.siemens

Mentioned Videos: 

Pike Paradise (FILM): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=is7iW3z5rJc

Search For A Giant (FILM): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1v2XMfC-iR4

We Caught A World Record Fish: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUybosd122g&t=3s

A Week In Alaska (FILM): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8yHHE4QOJo&t=79s

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this episode, Andrew and Jesse highlight exciting new baits they are looking forward to using in 2025 and the impact of barometric pressure on fishing. They talk with Wes from Wambaits about his popular baits and what he plans to bring to the upcoming Cancast fishing show. Kyle Carruthers later jumps on to share the excitement and plans for this upcoming show. 

Mentioned in Episode:

VMC Inline Single Hooks: https://ezokofishing.com/products/vmc-7237-iinline-single-1x

Mepps Aglia Spinner: https://www.mepps.com/information/aglia/121&dp=10194#B3%20GP

Williams Vortex Spinner: https://www.sail.ca/en/williams-vortex-dressed-spinner-1-2-oz-1470000

Savage Gear Crosstail Sucker: https://www.gagnonsports.com/savage-gear-3d-sucker-x-tail-9-94oz.html

Bass Magnet Bubba Grub: https://bassmagnetlures-waterwolflures.com/products/bubba-grub-8

Prowater Baits Hover Rig Hooks: https://prowaterbaits.com/products/phr-prowater-hover-rig

6th Sense Treble Head: https://www.gagnonsports.com/6th-sense-line-through-swimbait-treble-head.html

Smithwick Devils Horse: https://www.lurenet.com/smithwick-devils-horse-fishing-lure

Wambaits:

Website:  https://wambaits-canada.myshopify.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wambaits_canada/

CanCast Fishing Show (March 30, 2025)

Website: http://www.cancast.show/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cancastfishing/

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this episode, Jesse and Andrew dive into the world of steelhead fishing with expert Ontario fishing guide Matt Martin of Smooth River Guiding. They explore the challenges and rewards of targeting steelhead, discussing essential gear, presentation techniques, and how to read water conditions. Matt shares valuable tips for beginners and avid anglers alike and touches on the importance of ethical fishing practices, and insights on guided fishing experiences. 

Find Matt Martin: 

Website: https://www.smoothriver.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smooth.river.guiding/

Special thanks to the Can Cast Fishing Show for providing tickets for our giveaways! 

http://www.cancast.show/

Mentioned Links:

So Fly Podcast: https://www.sofly.ca/

Drift Outfitters: https://driftoutfitters.com/

Ontario Guide to Eating Fish: https://www.ontario.ca/page/guide-eating-ontario-fish

All to Clear Whitefish Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udbk7olgZTw&t=239s

AOA Steelhead Basics Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhvzDUGo6kw&t=31s

Fillet Pike Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xRPz_avl7o&t=249s

Ontario Fishing Regulations: https://www.ontario.ca/files/2024-12/mnr-2025-fishing-regulations-summary-en-2024-12-09.pdf

Raven Steelhead Fishing Rods/Floats: https://raventackle.com/

Previous Steelhead Fishing Podcast Episodes:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2141377/episodes/12420318-steelhead-fishing-basics

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2141377/episodes/14612146-artistic-insights-on-spring-steelhead

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

Join Andrew, along with special guest Len Talarico, for a reel-deal episode packed with fishing tips, culinary insights, and fascinating stories. Jesse dives into the terrifying details of the Great Storm of 1913 and Andrew and Len unravel the mystery of Y-bones in pike, and discuss why bleeding fish can elevate their flavour.

Len shares expert advice on filleting techniques, patience in preparation, and turning your catch into gourmet delights like ceviche and gravlax. Whether you're a fishing fanatic or a foodie looking to reel in some fresh ideas, this episode is sure to hook you from start to finish!

Disclaimer: Consuming raw freshwater fish poses potential health risks if not properly prepared. To ensure safety, it is recommended that raw fish be frozen at -18°C for several days to eliminate parasites and other harmful organisms. Please note that most residential freezers may not reach this temperature.

Make sure to follow Len! 

Lental Outdoors Links: https://linktr.ee/Lentaloutdoors?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY8QNLYpYAj2o-YVsZmELwHTdlwpqci1ENjRMBTrdC04mG_EE0tEoQ8040_aem_3XxK16HACofULkV0OKg3Qg

Mentioned in episode:
Lore Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2141377/episodes/16217421-great-lakes-legends-folklore-and-frozen-mysteries
Speedy Sharp Sharpener: https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/speedy-sharp-carbide-edge-blade-0578006p.html
Sudbury Nowhere Public House: https://www.knowherepublichouse.com/
Wambaits:https://wambaits-canada.myshopify.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabS4qhvSbLABws0zvHnTTudpBQAu8RCHwqdluXG3uDw1yfNM6SJND2aqfc_aem_zNEgJX5rMtKnwBV_7bOQlw

Special thanks to the Cancast Fishing Show Team for giving us tickets to giveaway for this episode! All supporting Patreon members are automatically entered into the draw! Winners drawn by Andrew the following weekend and posted on our Patreon page.

Buy Cancast tickets here! http://www.cancast.show/

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this exciting episode Jesse and Andrew are joined by Thatcher from Drop Tine Tackle to dive deep into the world of ice fishing for lake trout and crappie. Thatcher shares his journey as an angler and guide, offering insights into the art of creating effective fishing lures.

This episode is full of practical tips, gear recommendations, and a lighthearted discussion on the joys and challenges of the sport. The episode also features an awesome giveaway! Jesse also sneaks in a few musky related conversations into the mix for those dreaming of open water season!

Here are the official website and social media profiles for Drop Tine Tackle:

• Website: https://droptinetackle.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Droptinetackle/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/droptinetackle/

Mentioned:
Drop Tine Tackle Hunger Strike Tubes: https://droptinetackle.com/collections/hunger-strikes/products/3-8-oz-hunger-strike-tube-jig
Berkley Vibrato: https://fishingworld.ca/products/berkley-vibrato
Little Cleo: https://www.acmetackle.com/products/little-cleo
Swedish Pimple: https://swedishpimple.com/
Shimano Convergence Ice Rods:https://sportsheadquarters.ca/collections/ice-rods/products/shimano-ice-convergence-rod
Northland Coffin Spoon: https://www.northlandtackle.com/the-buck-shot-coffin-spoon-2/
Clam Rattling PT: https://clamoutdoors.com/rattlin-pt-spoon
Vexlar FL12 Flasher: https://store.vexilar.com/products/ice-fishing-sonar/flx-12.html
Hummingbird Ice 45 Flasher:https://humminbird.johnsonoutdoors.com/us/shop/fish-finders/ice/ice-45-flasher
Drop Tine Tackle Growler: https://droptinetackle.com/products/growler
Droptine Growler Attachment:https://droptinetackle.com/collections/muskie-baits/products/growler-arm
Droptine Triple Deuce: https://droptinetackle.com/collections/muskie-baits/products/triple-deuce-elite
Jay Siemens Alaska Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8yHHE4QOJo&t=78s
Boatside Grayling/Pike Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nf2RMdD1bEk&t=3573s

These ar

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this episode Andrew and Jesse sit down with Donny Crowder from Hotbox Huts to dive into the world of ice fishing on Lake Simcoe. Donny shares his expertise on understanding ice conditions, ice safety and staying prepared on the ice. The boys take out their notepads as Donny divulges practical tips on targeting perch and pike, including bait and location strategies. This episode is packed with fishing stories, answers to listener questions and an amazing giveaway!

Hot Box Huts is based on the west side of Cooks Bay, Lake Simcoe and offers ice fishing hut rentals. You can connect with them through the following platforms:

• Website: Hot Box Huts
• Facebook: Hot Box Huts on Facebook
• Instagram: @hotboxhuts
• YouTube: Hot Box Huts YouTube Channel

In this episode, we mentioned some great ice fishing gear:

• Meegs Lure: https://meegslures.com/
• Slab Grabber: https://mcgathyshooks.com/en-ca/collections/slab-grabber
• Kastmaster: https://www.acmetackle.com/products/acme-drop-chain-kastmaster
• Rippin’ Rap: https://www.rapala.ca/ca_en/rippin-rap
• HT Ice Fishing Little Jigger Balance Rod Holder: https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/ht-ice-fishing-little-jigger-balance-rod-holder-0784713p.html

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers