Gord Ellis

3 weeks ago | oodmag.com | Gord Ellis

Fishing for steelhead anywhere in Ontario can be quite a challenge. Variables include timing, which depends on factors such as rain, snowpack, air temperature, moon phase, and God knows what else. Some springs are cold and miserable, making standing on a riverbank uncomfortable at best. Other years, it’s too hot, which also makes standing on a riverbank a drag. Then there are the water levels. When water is high, and when it is low, steelhead fishing becomes challenging in many ways.

4 weeks ago | oodmag.com | Gord Ellis

Our rod tips danced rhythmically as I movedthe boat along a sheer rock wall. The sonar showed us in 20 feet of water, but I knew from experience that brook trout would be suspended and holding tight to the shelf. We were trolling Williams Warbler spoons — one silver, one brass — at a touch less than two miles-per-hour (3.2 km/h). Each had the treble hook replaced with a six-inch, 12-pound test monofilament dropper and a #4 Gamakatsu Octopus hook, baited with half a Berkley Gulp night crawler.

2 months ago | oodmag.com | Gord Ellis

Fishing gear can be like an addictive drug. The more you have the more you want. All the boxes and hampers of tackle can get to be an issue, however, when it’s time to plan an excursion. So, what are some must-haves? Here is a guide to keeping your gear light. Generally, if I’m going on a fly-in, I will bring two rods and three reels to cover most angling situations:Spinning all arounder: You will want a rod and reel that are both sensitive, versatile, and durable.

Dec 9, 2024 | oodmag.com | Gord Ellis

The November morning was a bit warmer than I would have liked, but there was no wind. I was set up in a ground blind on the edge of a field, looking at a corner where deer had been entering the field. It was late in the rut, and my trail camera had recorded a couple bucks making semi-regular appearances, mostly at night. However, the large herd of does nearby was keeping them close. As first light appeared, I glassed the edge of the field looking for animals.

Nov 26, 2024 | oodmag.com | Gord Ellis

As a kid, I was absolutely fascinated with my grandfather Ora Ellis’ hunting clothes. Gramps was a keen deer and moose hunter and dressed the part. He had thick, red wool pants with suspenders that were the most beautiful things I’d ever seen. On top, he wore a black and red checked jacket, which was the typical hunting gear of the day. My grandfather disliked hats, but usually wore a flap-style.