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We arrived early Saturday, Jan. 7 and got situated and gear together. Went out to "Pete's Point" some 200-plus yards to the north and east of the shoreline. Several other locals headed out as well. We caught fish, the biggest about 9 lbs., but we were just getting started.
Fished the morning and evening bites the remainder of the week, departing early Thursday, Jan. 12. Five guys fishing 4.5 days caught 80 fish, the biggest just over 11 lbs. (though I question those store-bought scales) and 31-plus inches. Actually caught two in that range that we brought home to be mounted. Lots of 8-, 9- and 10-pounders that all went back into the Bay, along w/ lots of other smaller fish. We kept a handful for a fish fry one night, but these "river" walleyes don't taste as good as some of Ontario's other lake walleyes.
We enjoyed the excellent services of Hardwater Walleye as our guide. Those from Belleville know him well. There's no one better for fishing knowledge, know-how on where to go, and all-around great sport. He knew we knew how to fish, so he spent his time enlightening us w/ stories and tips garnered from nearly 40 years of fishing the Bay. And, he made us laugh. It was one of the most memorable trips and I'll be posting some of the pictures soon.
As for the ice, it was fine wherever we went, but caution was the key word throughout our trip. Towards the end, as the temps warmed and the snow melted on top, the ice was quickly becoming a liability. We knew we had timed our trip well, and the good Lord blessed us with favorable weather, fishing and friends.
I won't give away all our secrets on where we fished exactly and what we used, in deference to Hardwater Walleye, and the fact that we will be back next year ... but for the locals and those who fish the Bay more than I wish I could ... you have a wonderful fishery. My hope and prayers are ya'll take care of it because over-fishing and keeping everything that comes out of those waters will quickly destroy the absolutely incredible fishing that we experienced. Having said this, I was amazed at how many of the locals kept everything they caught. Catch and release really needs to be practiced if one will not be consuming the fish.
Finally, as an American Yank, I can say you Canadians are some of the finest people I've ever met, eh. Glad you are our neighbors. Best of luck to all those who fish Quinte, but above all else ... be safe. There's always tomorrow.
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Rocky Mountain Man
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