Lake Ontario [general info]

[Mike]

Lake Ontario (ONTARIO)

Held each summer on Lake Ontario, the Great Ontario Salmon Hunt is Canada's largest tournament;

last year approximately 14,000 anglers vied to be the first to reel in a specially tagged salmon worth $1 million.

The biggest fish caught during last year's 50-day event, meanwhile, was a tournament record: a 46.38-pound chinook.

The big fish are certainly out there, but you have to know where to look.

The most popular harbours are Bronte, Port Credit, Bluffers Park (Scarborough), Oshawa, Port Hope and Wellington.

Last year The Toronto Star printed a daily report listing the top locations and lures, although some of the most

valuable information can be obtained at launch ramps or over the VHF radio.

Lake Ontario's chinook salmon relate heavily to structure and are usually found within one to six miles

of shore in 80 to 300 feet of water. The best fishing is at first light, although fish can be caught throughout the day.

A good sonar unit is a necessity since fish in Lake Ontario can be scattered over wide areas.

As for tackle, most competitors use downriggers and favour spoons such as Northern Kings, Patriots, RACs, Williams,

Lure Kings and Nasty Boys. Lately, a number of anglers have been trolling cut-bait rigs behind a flasher.

[SkeinMachine]

Mike,do you know if any of the revenue generated from the derby goes back into the fishery?

TIA;

[fish4al]

Last years biggest fish was not a tournament record. It was a 33.54lber. You are thinking of a different year. I think this year there is a good chance at a new record however. I love the derby, it is awsome.