deep-water eddies and increased current. The same is true where narrowing shorelines funnel the flow through deep channels. In lakes, hot spots are not so obvious. Look for features
that stand out from the rest of the lake. Shoals, rock piles, extended points, steep drop-offs or weed edges will all hold fish. Wind and current tend to make anchoring a canoe the
most effective way to fish the hot spots of lakes and rivers. Astrong mesh bag filled with rocks makes a great anchor that can be emptied for the portage trail. From an anchored position we can slowly work jigs along bottom, still fish with hook and worm, or cast spoons, spinners and crank baits over the shoals and weed edges of lakes or across a river’s current. In rivers we can avoid the uncertainty of anchoring in
strong flows by fishing from shore. In lakes we can opt for trolling when the wind and waves conspire against drop- ping the hook. In fact, tossing a line out and trolling while paddling is an effective search technique that unwittingly draws our lure over mid-lake features that hold fish. Beware: Angling can insidiously become the prime
focus of a wilderness outing, adding a new and time-con- suming dimension to a canoe trip. Satiating the desire to angle means taking the time to fish during peak periods of morning and evening, as well as trying that irresistible spot we may pass during the day. Of course not all paddlers will be enchanted by the
fusion of paddling and angling. Those less stricken should avoid conflict by sharing a canoe with a like-minded part- ner. While the anglers work the wilderness waters, the paddlers can forge ahead to set up camp. When the cheese soufflé emerges from the reflector oven, it will be the per- fect complement to a meal of fresh fillets.
James Smedley is the recipient of several national writing awards. He lives, writes, photographs and canoe-angles in northern Ontario.
sporting 2004 Annual 41
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