Ice fishing is still on thin ice
One way to make winter more enjoyable is to get outside and take advantage of the many fishing opportunities in our region.
But the inconsistent weather is not only making that difficult, it's also affecting tourism and the bottom line.
"I can't wait. I can't wait – just out checking today to see where everything is," said one fisher.
While people are still waiting to head out on some parts of Lake Simcoe, many have been out for weeks in certain areas.
"This is a white fish. It's about a pound and a half – just caught it out in Kempenfelt Bay," said a second fisher.
Cook's Bay is usually one of the first sections to freeze over because of the shallow water. On Monday, it was busy with people looking for the big catch.
Mike Fava operates with Rippin Lips outdoors in Lefroy. His huts are still on shore. Last year he was out in the lake by January 18h.
"Right now what we're finding is it's pretty inconsistent – still some spots are three inches, other spots are four to five inches, so it's been pretty difficult at the moment," said Mike Fava, who operators Rippin Lips Outdoors.
Fava said he hopes to be out this weekend with his huts.
Up in Big Bay Point, Don Luchkiw is clearing a path to the lake in anticipation of getting his huts out there. It's a little later than normal, but only by about a week or two. Luchkiw expects things to get going quickly, especially with American visitors.
"About a quarter of our business are guys that come up from the states Michigan, PA, you know, just that side of the border. They want to come down for a day and smash some lakers and whiteys. We've got them covered. Yes, (we're getting) lots of calls, especially for our overnight sleeper huts," said Don Luchkiw of Bear Point Fish Hut Rentals.
This is plenty of action over Lake Couchiching too.
Debbie Martin at Cumberland Beach today said they have up to 11 inches in some areas.
However, people are being reminded that the ice is still very inconsistent in many areas and are encouraged to always have the proper gear and check with your nearest ice hut operator first.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Doctors ask Liberal government to reconsider capital gains tax change
The Canadian Medical Association is asking the federal government to reconsider its proposed changes to capital gains taxation, arguing it will affect doctors' retirement savings.
Keeping these exotic pets is 'cruel' and 'dangerous,' Canadian animal advocates say
Canadian pet owners are finding companionship beyond dogs and cats. Tigers, alligators, scorpions and tarantulas are among some of the exotic pets they are keeping in private homes, which pose risks to public safety and animal welfare, advocates say.
BREAKING Man wanted in connection with deadly shooting in Toronto tops list of most wanted fugitives in Canada
A 35-year-old man wanted in connection with the murder of Toronto resident 29-year-old Sharmar Powell-Flowers nine months ago has topped the list of the BOLO program’s 25 most wanted fugitives across Canada, police announced Tuesday.
Prince William and wife Kate thank public for birthday messages for son Louis
Prince William and his wife Kate thanked the public for their messages which had been sent to mark the sixth birthday of their youngest son Louis on Tuesday.
She was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father. Then life dealt her a blow
Anne Marie Cavner was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father, but then life dealt her a blow. From an unexpected loss to a host of new relationships, a DNA test changed her life, and she doesn't regret a thing.
How quietly promised law changes in the 2024 federal budget could impact your day-to-day life
The 2024 federal budget released last week includes numerous big spending promises that have garnered headlines. But, tucked into the 416-page document are also series of smaller items, such as promising to amend the law regarding infant formula and to force banks to label government rebates, that you may have missed.
Fire engulfs old Edmonton municipal airport hangar
A historical hangar at the former Edmonton municipal airport beside the NAIT main campus was on fire Monday night.
Soft skills, preparation can help new graduates land jobs, experts say
As new graduates enter the workforce over the next few weeks, they are likely to face challenges getting their foot in the door and must be prepared to effectively communicate what they bring to the company.
RCMP uncovers plot to sell drones and equipment to Libya
The RCMP says it has uncovered a ploy to sell Chinese drones and military equipment to Libya illegally.