With the trout fishing season and the return of the children’s fishing derby just around the corner, many of us are dusting off our gear and looking forward to getting out to Baxter Creek or the Millbrook Ponds.
Millbrook has one of the few cold-water trout fisheries in southern Ontario and provides accessible opportunities for trout angling. According to the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, approximately 1.4 million licensed anglers in Ontario contribute more than $2.2 billion annually to the provincial economy. Respecting and caring for Millbrook’s coldwater fishery is essential not only for environmental reasons but also for the benefit of businesses and the local economy. It is a great time of year to remind ourselves what we can do to help maintain our local trout population.
We encourage all anglers to practice catch and release – this helps ensure a healthy trout habitat for future generations. Use a rubber or mesh net designed specifically for trout fishing when bringing in your fish. These nets are designed to protect the slime layer and gills of the fish. Remember to keep the fish in the water as much as possible. Never hold a trout by the mouth or the gills. Trout are very sensitive to this type of handling. Finally, take the time to allow your fish to recover before releasing it downstream. Gently hold the fish facing upstream in the water. This allows water to flow over the fish’s gills and will help them recover. The process can take a few minutes but will ensure that the fish has recovered before it swims away.
Use single barbless hooks or bend over the barbs. It is safer for the fish and makes hook removal much easier. If a hook is lodged deep down the throat, cut the line instead of trying to remove it. Studies have shown that the hooks will eventually find their way out, and the fish will have a much better chance of survival rather than having throat trauma caused by aggressive hook removal. When you are gearing up for the upcoming season, look for alternatives to lead-based sinkers. Lead can contaminate groundwater in the event a sinker is lost, or a line is broken. There are sinkers available made of more ecologically friendly materials that can be used just as effectively.
Bring in what you bring out. Litter not only finds its way into the watershed and contaminates groundwater but can directly contribute to the deaths of fish and birds and other wildlife. Consider bringing a small bag and bringing out extra garbage with you. Do not leave any excess or broken fishing line.
Finally, always follow Ministry laws and regulations. They are in place for a reason. Consider taking the MNRF’s learn to fish online if you or your family are new to fishing https://www.ontario.ca/page/learn-fish-digital This amazing resource can help new anglers understand what tackle to use, how to follow fishing regulations, and identify different fish species. See you out there!
By Trout Unlimited Millbrook
