Fishing in Nova ScotiaFishing in Nova Scotia can be an adventurous and fun-filled experience, but there are certain things that you will want to know ahead of time. By making sure that you have everything you need will ensure that you have one of the best experiences of your life. When it comes to wanting to know what to expect during your saltwater fishing in Nova Scotia, it is important to make sure that you know what type of fish to expect. Although the Chain Pickerel fish used to be primarily known as a freshwater fish, it has slowly made its way into the salt waters of Nova Scotia. This is one of the more popular fish in the area, at least where saltwater fishing is concerned. Atlantic Mackerel are a common and abundant species. They travel in large schools and will attack any shiny lure or brightly colored fly. They can be fished from shore from late late summer to early fall. In the early summer they are found in deeper waters further offshore.
Pollock or Boston Blue Fish are very abundant around docks and harbor inlets. They will bite on spoons, spinners, flies, bait, jigs, bubblegum....just about anything they can get in their mouth. Sharing the same waters as cod but at a later time, usiually in the summer and into the fall, are Haddock. Hand lines or medium to heavy rod/reel combo's with baited hooks is the traditional method used for the recreational fisherman. Atlantic Halibut are sometimes caught while fishing in inshore waters. These highly prized food fish are also well known for their no-surrender fighting capability. Found not far from shore in some spot locations around the province are Atlantic Cod. They will hit shiny spoons and jigs as well as cut bait or clams. Common to shallow water close to shore you can find Flounder or sole. They are one of the best tasting, easily caught fish and give lots of fun on light tackle.
You may be looking to rent a chartered boat to get offshore. Generally speaking, you supply the food and drink, and the charter boat supplies rod/reel and bait. But charters differ, so check with them first Of course, if you do not have a lot of experience with Saltwater Fishing in Nova Scotia then you should seriously consider getting yourself set up with an experienced guide. The guide usually knows the best fishing spots round and how to get to them. At present, there is no requirement for a Saltwater / Tidal water license for recreational fishing purposes. But freshwater species are governed by the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and licenses are required. Licenses can be purchased in most stores in Nova Scotia displaying "Fishing Licenses Sold Here" signs. The current license fees for freshwater fishing (with 13% HST included) are: General Fishing License
Salmon
If freshwater fishing appeals to you then you are most likely looking at catching Atlantic Salmon or possibly Speckled trout. For this, I would recommend fly fishing and the help of a guide or experienced fisherman. By turning to someone for a little help you will gain a lot of inside tips and advice that you otherwise would not have. The guide would know of the best places to fsh as well as the type of fly that should be used. This could save you time, money, and frustration. Just make sure that you obtain your freshwater license before you head out to fish so that you do not land yourself in any trouble.
Talk fish, think fishing in Nova Scotia. However, to be able to fish properly, you got to have the right kind of equipment. Although this list is far from being the exhaustive list of things you'd need, the information is nonetheless priceless. Type of Fishing EquipmentFishing Rods: No matter what anyone might say, I'd stick to the point of view that the length of the rod to be taken into consideration when purchasing one is more of a personal preference.There is no rule that the rod must be tall or short, think or stout. It's up to you because what you find most comfortable is invariably the best choice. However, from experience, it has been found that the longer rods enable you to have better control while the shorter ones are more challenging and hence more fun. Like I said, it's a matter of personal preference. Reels and Lines: If you are going to fish for Salmon, you will need a strong reel with a drag system and that perhaps, is the only stipulation I will make. For fish like Rainbow trout, you don't really need to fuss over the reels and the drag system that accompanies it. You can pick from a choice of lines which are made available throughout the year. The most popular ones are of course the floating lines. Sometimes you might want to look for a “Sink Tip” line when fishing for Salmon. What to Wear: What should you wear when going fishing? Waders, of course. But then, what kind of Waders? The best ones for fishing would be the felt soles. Wading boots and neoprene booties are great. As an alternative, you might want to add some sort of carpet material to the soles of your sneakers. Wet wading is highly recommending during the summer months and don't forget warm underwear thrown in for good measure. Other Equipment: What else do you need? Don't forget a protective cream to prevent yourself from getting bitten by mosquitoes – fly-dope will do. If you feel queasy about spraying the dope on your hands, you might want to try wearing rubber gloves or cotton gloves. You could even think of having a wading stick which you can use to prop yourself up while wading through rivers with slippery bottoms. Sunglasses or a pair of goggles are an absolute must. Fishing in Nova Scotia will prove to be an unforgettable experience, as long as you're properly prepared and ready for fun! And for more fishing advice, visit Best Fishing Advice - A site dedicated to all about the best fishing advice. From saltwater fishing to fly fishing and all about fishing boats by fisherman, marine electrical engineer and best selling boating and fishing book author John C Payne
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