Fishing Loons

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 are not affiliate links, please support your local tackle shops and tell em 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

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

Celebrate the best of 2024 with this special episode of the Average Ontario Anglers Fishing Podcast! Andrew and Jesse take you on a hilarious and insightful journey through the year’s most memorable moments.

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 2024 recap episode, Jesse and Andrew take a nostalgic look back at the past year of their fishing adventures. They reflect on the growth of their podcast, some listener statistics and the challenges of being podcasters. They cover how the podcast will change in 2025.

Andrew dives into some unique fish species and their fascinating adaptations to explore the concept of fishing superpowers debating which they would choose for themselves. Looking ahead to the next year, they tease of some exciting episodes with expert guests planned.

Our Top 5 Episodes of 2024:
1. May the Pike Be With You: https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2141377/episodes/14997785-may-the-pike-be-with-you
2. Spinnerbait Success: https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2141377/episodes/15166192-spinnerbait-success
3. Small Baits Catch Big Fish: https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2141377/episodes/14821119-small-baits-catch-giant-fish
4. Small Craft Fishin' Ontario: https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2141377/episodes/14823992-small-craft-fish-n-ontario\
5. Dreaming of Topwater: https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2141377/episodes/14802100-dreaming-of-topwater

Brad Scott Canadian Cowboy Outdoors: https://www.instagram.com/canadian_cowboy_outdoors/p/C_u4Q_5ugZH/

Andrews 50" Musky Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2141377/episodes/16141987-lake-st-clair-musky-madness

We'd like to thank everyone for all the support in 2024! 

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 explore the icy waters of cold-weather fishing. Learn how to stay warm and safe with tips on essential gear like float suits, thermal huts, heaters, and ice picks. The duo shares their own frosty fishing tales, blending practical advice with plenty of laughs. Jesse talks of his December musky fishing adventure with Travis from Kawartha Fishing Charters and how they tricked some cold water sluggish beasts.

Mentioned in Episode:

Kawartha Fishing Charters: https://www.kawarthafishing.com/
Kawartha Fishing Apparel: https://57cbd8-3.myshopify.com/

Musky Lures:
Water Wolf Lures Shadzilla X - https://bassmagnetlures-waterwolflures.com/products/shadzilla-x
Hell Hound Glidebait: https://tacklebros.ca/products/esox-squirrelly-hell-hound-9

Mentioned Gear:

Ice Picks: https://www.gagnonsports.com/frabill-ice-picks.html
Striker Float Suit: https://strikerbrands.com/collections/ice-fishing-suits?srsltid=AfmBOorr5EKunGFWIRzNU4V04Vvkp0KuEORouP8JMqrxd9Czx-0tvHna
Throw Rope: https://www.fox40world.com/rescue-throw-bags
Ice Cleats: https://www.igripstore.com/collections/footwear
Williams Ice Jigs: https://williams.ca/products/ice-jig/
Kastmaster: https://www.acmetackle.com/products/acme-drop-chain-kastmaster?srsltid=AfmBOoo3LyD1jeMVslE9BXM3d8rdCPszsxc5uBDgdK91IBXDlOnbBfED
Jigging Rap: https://www.rapala.ca/ca_en/rapala/lures/lures-by-series/jigging-series?srsltid=AfmBOooIQQHTTNHmNEuBO9jo6BQWhHCoYUXBch84ibYh4vpz9PDvn0k_

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 plunge into the icy depths of Great Lakes lore, uncovering how oxygen levels can make or break your ice fishing trip, and how to adapt for success. They also meet the mythical guardians of the lakes, from Mishipeshu's watery watch over Ontarios waters to the Melon Heads lurking near Lake Michigan. Listener reviews, fishing tips, and plenty of laughs make this a reel-y great episode you won’t want to miss! 

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 reflect on the challenges anglers face as the colder weather settles in and review their favourite lures from the past year, sharing stories of success and lessons learned on the water.

1. Z Man Evo Chatterbait - https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=evo+chatterbait&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8
2. Duo Realis Jerkbait - https://duo-international.com/products/realis-jerkbait-110sp/
3. Evergreen XV5 Jerkbait - https://evergreenbaits.com/products/xv-5
4. Simpletons - https://wambaits-canada.myshopify.com/products/3-25-swimpletons
5. Savage Gear Fat T Tail - https://www.savagegear.com/collections/soft-bait-lures/products/fat-t-tail-minnow?variant=46109904011493
6. Z Man Hellraizer - https://zmanfishing.com/products/hellraizer
7. 6th Sense Divine Swim Jig - https://6thsensefishing.com/collections/divine-swim-jigs?srsltid=AfmBOorjV3YxUgCnBKd42LqxWkR6fFLAlsq2S5vQMsDYyDkp4nL2HKI6
8. Jacked Up Jigs Swim Jig - https://www.jackedupjigs.ca/products/ghost-shad-2
9. Perfect Jig Tungsten Jigs - https://theperfectjig.ca/product-category/jigs/tungsten-jigs/
10. Z Man Goat Toad - https://zmanfishing.com/products/goat-toadz
11. Bass Magnet Tubezilla - https://bassmagnetlures-waterwolflures.com/products/tubezilla-5
12. Solid Shadzilla 9.5' - (Available Soon) https://bassmagnetlures-waterwolflures.com/
13. Blackfly Lures Big Bastard - https://www.blackflylures.com/product/big-basstard-flash-black-orange/
14. Grimm Reaper Lures Boss Cat - https://grimreaperlures.com/boss-cat/
15. Lunkerhunt Furenzy Mouse - https://lunkerhunt.com/products/furenzy-mouse srsltid=AfmBOorsdj_FmFIDaZf6DBUPr7jruQf2uciBSuNw37Nz2AyYKhncuk9E
16. Moonshine Glow Spoons https://www.acmetackle.com/collections/moonshine-lures/products/moonshine-casting-spoon

Support your local tackle shops and tell them 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

Join Jesse and Andrew as they share their thrilling muskie fishing adventure at Lake St. Clair, including the excitement of catching a 50-inch muskie! Learn about the lake's ecosystem, essential techniques, and how preparation and teamwork lead to success. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just curious, this episode is a reminder that fishing is about more than the catch—it's about creating lasting memories and connections.

Watch Andrews Catch: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/NgiH77F1pvM

Make sure to check out our fishing buddy Jonah!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonahvangeest/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VANBEAST

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