Caiger's ideal destination for kayak bass anglers
MALLORYTOWN, Ontario - This year bass season in southern Ontario waters opened Saturday, June 21, and the majority of the anglers fishing out of Caiger's Resort, located along the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands Region, fired up their bass boats as the sun was still rising and headed to their favorite spots out in the river.
By the time those anglers returned 3-4 hours later for breakfast at Caiger's they had plenty of digital photographs to show of their catch-and-release success. So, too, did the handful of anglers who fished minutes from the resort, including a few who were within sight of the main lodge and efficiency units.These anglers are comprised of a small, but very dedicated, group of kayakers who have discovered the joy to be had by thinking small and getting big results. They started by fishing the smaller impoundments where the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks trout each year, but have gone on to enjoy success on larger waters.Some had reached the stage where they found their bass boat or larger fishing boat just too big to get into those shallow and weedy areas where fish like to hide and decided the time had come to add a kayak to their fleet. In addition, a kayak also enables anglers to move in close to make the perfect cast without spooking the fish.Many of the kayak/fishing boats can slip in just about anywhere and are easy to transport, but only one allows for hands-free operation while fishing. That is the Hobie Mirage Revolution 13, a "sit-on" kayak that is perfect for use on both smaller ponds and larger lakes and rivers.Another advantage over "sit-in" kayaks is a "sit on" is easier to get off when wanting to do some shoreline wade fishing. Best of all, the stability of the Hobie Mirage Revolution 13 is enhanced by the foot pedal system called the MirageDrive that propels the kayak and drops into the hull and is locked into place with the "Click & Go" system.In addition to the Revolution being perfect for fishing shoreline weed beds, it is also great for trolling. This pedal system is also quieter than paddling, which allows moving into position on fish and even wildlife on the shore that present a photo opportunity.Eliminated by the MirageDrive pedal system is paddle reflection and paddle motion, which often frightens the fish or chases away wildlife subjects. And while the Revolution 13 provides stealth, it is spacious with three enclosed stowage locations at the bow, mid-ship - which is located between the angler's legs and is ideal for the lures and equipment used most - and the stern - which is roomy enough to stow away equipment for a multi-day excursion.In addition to the pedal-propelled kayaks by Hobie, now more than ever before there are plenty of traditional models available that are designed exclusively for fishing. Almost all the major sporting goods stores now carry kayaks, and it is an easy matter to do some research online.While the tackle being used in larger fishing boats will work when kayak fishing, it is important not to overload a kayak. Once the tackle has been organized, it is amazing how little is needed to battle bass, and for those also looking for some adventure, there is no better place to do so than when fishing in the 1000 Islands Region on the St. Lawrence River at Caiger's Resort.For information about fishing and vacation packages at Caiger's Resort, access the website at
www.caigers.ca, call (613) 659-2266 or email
info@caigers.ca; for information on Hobie kayaks, access the website at
www.hobiefishing.com or call 1-800-Hobie-49.