It’s been a tumultuous time leading up to opening season.
I’ve kept myself busy with the usual pre-season activities; tying flies, practicing my casting, performing usual maintenance on rod, reel, waders etc., all in anticipation of opening weekend. The issue is: When is opening weekend?
Where I live has been affected heavily by Covid 19, and our province has been in a lockdown since the early April, and it was due to last until early May. That meant we were going to miss the first two weeks of our trout season. However, as disappointed as I was, it was the price we’d have to pay to move forward from the time of Covid. I must say the disappointment was heavy though, since we’ve been waiting since September.
Then, just two days ago, I found an update on one of the Ministry webpages that outlined the full nature of the restrictions, and found out that fishing season was going to be allowed to start on time! Instantly my mood brightened and I went back to my plans for the first trip of the year, to make sure everything was still on track.
It got even better, because I received a Covid vaccination yesterday as well, which made me feel more confident of getting outside and enjoying myself without fear of touching everything. Of course I still have to be very cautious, but it is a relief not feeling completely vulnerable.
Enter another plot twist. Late yesterday our government held a press conference to say that they were increasing the restrictions and conditions of the lockout. Now they were closing down outdoor recreation facilities, travel, and outdoor activities. To make matters worse, they were extending the duration for an additional two weeks. That meant the start of the season would be the end of May. Crestfallen once more.
To give this perspective, in Ontario the season starts on the fourth weekend of April. Typical Ontario weather provides for approximately 8 weeks of good trout conditions at the beginning of the season; after the last week of June the weather is usually too hot for trout, except in the deeper lakes and rivers, and you have to hope for a good September to get another four weeks at the end of the season. As I prefer fly fishing, I don’t fish in the deeper lakes or rivers, and I don’t go out to fish for bass or pike. With yesterday’s news, it meant that I would have about 4 weeks of a season ahead of me, as long as all other conditions were perfect.
Today, I read that they have still allowed day trips for fishing, but have requested that we do not travel outside of our immediate area. This is no hardship, because I live within 30 miles of several great trout rivers! I’m ready to light the fireworks and celebrate again! But…There is another week to go before the season starts, and anything can happen between now and then. Also, depending on how well we respond to the pandemic, the restrictions can be changed again, so I’m trying to remain on an even keel and won’t get too excited until I’m actually getting my line wet.
Even then, I have to make sure I tread carefully due to the conditions.
Come Fly With Me 