A Beginner’s Guide to Canoe Fishing

Anglers who enjoy remote locations and fishing with just the basics might find canoe fishing to be a new favourite pastime. Anglers can fish from a canoe in freshwater rivers, ponds and lakes, as well as saltwater estuaries. For keen anglers such as Nishat Gupte, canoe fishing can be a truly relaxing experience.

Advantages of Canoe Fishing

There are many advantages to fishing from a canoe. Canoes can be easily fitted with comfortable seating, along with fishing rod and gear storage.

Canoes are easy to store, launch and transport – even for beginners – and are so lightweight they can be easily transported with a roof rack. Anglers can also access fishing spots that might have been inaccessible with a larger boat.

Fishing from a Canoe

When fishing from a canoe for the first time, bring someone experienced along. They will be able to help you follow safety recommendations and can also lend a helping hand if necessary.

Be sure to stay centred in the canoe at all times. This helps keep the canoe steady and will prevent it from tipping over. This is especially important to remember when casting, reeling in or handling a catch. Keep in mind that the narrower the canoe, the easier it is to tip.

Setting Up the Canoe

When heading out in a canoe, anglers should try to keep their gear to a minimum. Only carry the gear that is necessary to catch your targeted species.

When rigging a canoe, anglers should consider the conditions of the water. For example, experienced anglers in calm waters using wide canoes might opt for a gravity rig. However, most anglers will choose a diamond or hybrid rig instead.

After choosing the rig, make sure to also use waterproof bags or cases and fasten down any gear that isn’t being used. That way, if the canoe does tip, the gear will stay dry and won’t end up on the bottom of the water.

For a little extra stability, some anglers will add either an anchor or even a motor to the canoe.