Catch The Trout! Trout Forest Music Festival

Montreal's Juno award-winning folk group Chic Gamine

Music in the Woods! August 12-14, 2011

Meet up at the Ear Falls Waterfront Park for the 16th Annual Trout Forest Music Festival. The festival has become a favourite annual summer festival getaway for music fans. The bands are roots-based solo artists and groups. One of the festival's mandates is to try and have the most diverse collection of musicians, both geographical and genre speaking. The small size of the music festival appeals to many. It creates an interactive atmosphere between the audience and the musicians. Unlike other folk festivals across the country, attendees don't have to worry about dealing with large line-ups and overbearing crowds. While it is a smaller event, the talent is not small. Performers include Victoria, BC's alternative country singer-songwriter Carolyn Mark and Montreal's Juno award-winning folk group Chic Gamine.

This year's line-up consists of 30 must-see musicians from across Canada. In addition to Carolyn Mark and Chic Gamine the other musical acts are Don Amero, Vince Andrushko, Big Boogaloo, Allison Brown, Crooked Brother, Cris Derksen, Deep Dark Woods, Matt Epp, Jean-Paul De Roover, Lindsay Jane, Little Miss Higgins,  Marc Merilainen, Andrew Neville and The Poor Choices, NQ Arbuckle, Andrew Queen, Mark Reeves, Jess Reimer, Righteous Ike, Ben Sures, Sweet Alibi, Tannis Slimmon, The F-Holes, and Bob Wiseman. See more about the musicians and a confirmed list of the bands on Trout Forest Music Festival website.

Kenora's Big Boogaloo

The music festival is held in Ear Falls, Ontario which is located on Highway 105  approximately 110 km north of the Trans Canada Highway at Vermilion Bay.  Ear Falls is approximately 2 hours from Kenora, 1 1/2 hours from Dryden, 4 1/2 hours from Thunder Bay, and 4/1/2 hours from Winnipeg. Once in Ear Falls, on the right just past the Hydro Dam, you will see the Ear Falls Waterfront Park, the home of the Trout Forest Music Festival. Parking is on the west side of Highway 105, opposite the festival site.

If you are coming from out of town, you can camp in the area. There are Quiet Camping Only Sites available at the Baseball Fields. Tent Camping Spaces are limited and available on a First Come, First Served basis. RV Sites are limited and available on a First Come First Serve basis. RV Overflow Sites have no facilities or security crew. Camping opens at 12:00 noon on Thursday, August 11th. Each member in your group/family must possess a valid camping pass. Shower and restroom facilities onsite. Free firewood. Children under 12 are free.

There are off-site accommodations that offer camping or if you are lucky they may have a cabin or hotel room left open. Here are some of the the facilities offering off-site camping accommodations during the Trout Forest Music Festival: Lac Seul Evergreen Lodge, Pine Ridge Campground, Little Canada Camp, Lac Seul's, Golden Eagle, Rainbow Point Lodge,  Goose Bay Camp, Trillium Motel & Restaurant (807-222-3126), and Hotel 105 (807-222-3374).To find out about any other accommodations or about Ear Falls, please visit www.ontariotowns.net/EarFalls/

Tickets are available at Stems ‘n Such in the Ear Falls Plaza, at The Northern Sun News in Red Lake, the Q104 FM Office in Vermilion Bay, the Golden Nectar or CKDR 92.7 FM in Dryden, HoJoe’s Coffee & Books or Fragile Glass Studio with Charm in Kenora, and at the Winnipeg Folk Festival Store or Times Change(d) High & Lonesome Club in Winnipeg, MB. You can also buy tickets online at Ticketbreak.com. A full list of ticket prices, which range from $22 day passes to $70 3-day weekend passes, are available on the festival's website www.troutfest.com. If you require further assistance, contact the office at: 807-222-2404 or toll-free @ 1-866-TROUT33.

For information on other musical events or festivals in Northwest Ontario, visit the Sunset Country Events Page or the Events Calendar on Facebook.

Come Celebrate Kenora’s Biggest Summer Party

Kenny Shields & Streetheart play Friday night

July 29th to 31st are dates to mark on your calendars if you love to hear great bands and party the night away. Kenora's annual Harbourfest takes place over three fun-filled days and you do not want to miss it. Located under the big tent on the Kenora harbourfront, where else can you enjoy great music and a great view of beautiful Lake of the Woods at the same time?

This year's line-up of bands are as follows:
Friday Night: Kenny Shields & Streetheart, Aldo Nova, Honeymoon Suite, A Flock  of Seagulls
Saturday Night: Doc Walker with Special Guest Big Boogaloo
Sunday Night: Sloan with Special Guests The Watchmen, Ian Thornley & Big Wreck

Harbourfest isn't just for the adults though, Harbourfest has something for everyone. During the day there are also a number of other events suitable for the entire family. Both Saturday and Sunday there is the Kidzone from 11am-5pm which includes carnival games, face painting, bouncy rides, and pony rides. Wristbands for rides and games are $8 per child per day. The wristband also gets you into the Brian Glow Illusion show Sunday July 31 at 1:30pm under the big tent on the Harbourfront.

Kidzone includes all sorts of children's activities such as the bouncy castle

Other Events on Saturday include:

Under the tent:

• 11am-3:30pm - DCPro artist search, Kenora’s version of Canadian Idol. Judges decide the winners with input from audience ballots.
• 11am-3:30pm - Photo contest slide show. Sponsored by the Hardwear Company and Chow Time Pet Supply.
• 12-2pm - Kenora’s hip hop dancers will perform between musical acts in the DCPro artist search.

 Outside of the tent:

• 10am-6pm - Aboriginal Art Show & Sale, ‘on the green’ next to Blue Heron Gift Shop. Free admission. Sponsored by Seven Generations Education Institute.
• 11am-5pm - Crafters kiosks beside the big tent.
• Noon - Kinect contest at Lake of the Woods Museum. The museum's interactive exhibit called "From Pong to Kinect - The History of Arcade Games” also includes vintage arcade games that you can actually play. For more information, contact the museum at 467-2105.

Brian Glow's Amazing Illusion Show

Sunday Events include:

Under the tent: 

• 11am-3:00pm - Photo contest slide show.
• 1:30pm - Brian Glow’s amazing illusion show. In honour of Harbourfest’s 20th anniversary, this show is bigger and better than any afternoon family show there's ever been at Harbourfest. Sponsored by LOWBIC. Free entry with Kidzone wristband.

 Outside of the tent:

• 7:30-9:30am — Pancake breakfast at Jubilee Church on First Street, just one block from the Harbourfront. $5 per person.
• 10am-6pm - Aboriginal Art Show & Sale, ‘on the green’ next to Blue Heron Gift Shop. Free admission. Sponsored by Seven Generations Education Institute. It is also there on Monday 10 - noon.
• 11am-5pm - Crafters kiosks beside the big tent.
• 11am-4pm - CarFest classic car show on the greenbelt between the Harbourfront and Huskie the Muskie.
• 12-2:30pm - On the water. Wooden boat parade and display. Sponsored by Two Bears Marina
• 10:30pm - Fireworks extravaganza
  

For more information and to find places to stay you can also contact Kenora Tourism or visit the Harbourfest website to purchase tickets. Tickets are going fast. You can also pick them up (cash only) at Donny B's. Nibblers nook and Two Bears Marina in Kenora.

A Whole Festival Related to Blueberries? You Betcha!

Over 110 Events at This Year's Blueberry Festival in Sioux Lookout

Blueberry Festival, Sioux Lookout, Ontario

The Blueberry Festival is a 10 day festival celebrating the community of Sioux Lookout. It runs from July 29-August 7, 2011. With over 110 events this year, the Blueberry Festival has become a grand summer celebration attracting thousands of visitors from around the region and around the world. Blueberries are abundant in Northwest Ontario so it only seems fitting to have a Blueberry Festival. Wild blueberries are one of my favourite fruit and my mouth is watering a little bit as I write this. Starting on the Friday of August long weekend and lasting for ten days, residents and visitors come together and form a bond of great communal spirit. Many of the events encompass the beauty of the area, allowing participants and spectators to enjoy the plentiful lakes and beaches. From the very young to the young at heart, and from the athletically inclined to the most sedate sport enthusiasts, there is something for everyone at the Blueberry Festival.

The festival starts with the Blueberry Festival Opening Ceremonies taking place at the Town Beach from 3:30-6pm. There will be face painting, free balloons, speeches, Kenora Scottish Pipes & Drums performance, entertainment by Edible Rex, presentation of the Jack McKenzie Memorial Award, and the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon and cake. This sets the scene for the next 10 days in Sioux Lookout. Many of the restaurants even get in on the action by offering blueberry themed baking, meals and even Blueberry Mojitos at Foxy's July 29th from 5:30-9pm. Visit the Forest Bar & Grill at the Forest Inn from July 29-August 7 and receive a piece of blueberry pie with the purchase of any entree after 4:30pm. Drop by the Mayfair Theatre for a blueberry snack. Blueberry cheesecake ice cream, blueberry milkshakes, and blueberry sundaes will be available all week. Visit Dick & Nellie's Restaurant for a taste of blueberry spirit. The menu features Homemade Blueberry BBQ Pork Ribs, Cool Summer Blueberry Soup with Creme Fraiche, Blueberry Panna Cotta Cream Dessert, and more! The Dick & Nellie's blueberry inspired menu is available from 4:30pm to closing until August 6.

Some of the other events include a Blueberry Window Painting Contest, a Bannock Bake-off, Blueberry Rock-Paper-Scissors Tournament, the Annual Roy Lane 10K Road Race, Family Fun Day, Wagon Rides, and much more. Get a bird's eye view of Sioux Lookout with a Slate Falls Town Tour. There are also golf, beach volleyball, bocce, tennis, road hockey, dodgeball, hockey, basketball tournaments.

Sioux Mountain Music and Cultural Festival is held on July 30-31. Saturday is a day of live music at the Town Beach featuring local artists and more! From noon to midnight, come and enjoy music, workshops, vendors, and food!

 Visit the Blueberry Festival website to see the complete Sioux Mountain Festival Line Up. There will also be a BBQ, Sioux Mountain Festival t-shirts, draws, raffles, give-a-ways and the Taste of Sioux Lookout (local chefs offering their signature dishes). On Sunday, come to the Town Beach from 12-6pm and experience all Cultural Day has to offer. Featuring workshops, music, booths, demonstrations, and other fun activities such as  snow shoe making,
tie dying, 
dance workshops, 
craft booths 
and so much more!

August 7th is the Annual Childrens Festival. Take your kids to the Town Beach from 10am-2pm for the 5th Annual Childrens Festival featuring a Dog Parade, Comic Book Workshop, Diamond Dogs Show, Cedar Bay Wagon Rides & much more.

With over 100 events, I can't list them all! See the Blueberry Festival for a complete listing of events. For more information on Sioux Lookout, please visit the Sioux Lookout Chamber of Commerce or www.ontariotowns.net/SiouxLookout/

UPDATE:  A list of all the winners at the various events at the 2011 Blueberry Festival can be found on the Blueberry Festival's website.

Angler Young Angler Introduces Kids to Competitive Fishing

Focus on Kids at AYA Tournament!

Dryden AYA 2011 Winners John Butts, Aidan Butts and Luke Turcotte

The Angler Young Angler program takes place in Red Lake, Dryden and Thunder Bay Ontario as well as many other cities in Canada and the U.S. This year's Championship is in Kenora on Lake of the Woods. The Angler & Young Angler Tournaments started in 1998 with the intent of giving  youth the opportunity to fish in a Competitive style tournament.  The main objective is to introduce young anglers to competitive sport fishing in a fun environment surrounded by family and friends. Kids get to spend time with their parents fishing together. The memories created will last a life time.

This year Red Lake held their event on June 5th on Red Lake. Dryden's  was on July 9th on Wabigoon Lake, Thunder Bay's was also on July 9th on the Kam River and the National Championship is being held held on Lake of the Woods in Kenora this year taking place on August 13th. The 2011 winner of the Dryden AYA was John Butts, Aidan Butts and Luke Turcotte. Gord Ellis along with team members Austin Ellis and Landon Brochu won in Thunder Bay this year. The 2011 winners from Red Lake were Ed Goulet, Jenna Goulet and Brett Kreiger.

Huge walleye from Dryden's AYA Winning Team

Each team consists of 1 adult angler and 2 young anglers under the age of 17. Since fishing is the main attraction in this part of Ontario, the tournaments are one of the highlights of the summer and a fun family event! There is an official weigh-in, prizes and a BBQ to follow a day of fishing. The winner of each regional event qualifies for the opportunity to participate in the International Championship. The first place team wins the title of  'Angler & Young Angler International Champions'  as well as an all expense paid trip for 4 to Walt Disney World.  The second place team wins a fishing trip for 4 to a Wilderness North lodge. Past years have seen trips include Knee Lake Resort, Plummers Lodge, Totem Resorts and to Arctic Adventures.

In March 2012, there will be the Third Angler Young Angler Ice Fishing Derby. The 2011 Ice Fishing Derby was held on Lake Winnipeg. Carter Johnson, an 8 year old angler stole the day catching a huge 12.08 greenback walleye. For his catch, Carter won a trip to God's Lake Lodge.

The AYA events are filmed and presented on TV. The series is broadcast throughout the country, reaching millions of children who do not have the chance to participate in the tournaments. A goal of the AYA Fishing Tournaments is to expand the exposure of youth fishing throughout Canada, by participation in the tournaments and reaching them through TV. Go the Angler Young Angler web site to see video clips of excited kids and families fishing across North America. You can also find out information on how you too can become a part of the AYA experience.

For a list of other fishing tournaments in Northwest Ontario, please visit our list of Fishing Tournaments in Sunset Country.

UPDATE: August 16, 2011
The winner of the 2011 Angler Young Angler Championship on Lake of the Woods was John Butts of Dryden, a former Professional Walleye Tour angler, his son Aidan Butts and friend Luke Turcotte (pictured above after winning the AYA in Dryden earlier this summer). The Dryden Team won the tournament by 1.22 lbs, with a total of 46.41 lbs. Second place winners were Ed Goulet, Jenna Goulet and Brett Kreiger from Red Lake, Ontario. The winners win a trip for four to Walt Disney World and the Red Lake trio win a trip for four to a Wilderness North fly-in lodge.

How to Win $20,000 Fishing

Anglers waiting to weigh in at the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship

The Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship is set to take place July 17-23, 2011 on Rainy Lake. If there's a full roster, the top prize is $20,000. Not bad for a couple of days fishing. The total prize package with a full roster is $102,000. There are prizes for daily top top catch, biggest daily fish, and more. There is even a top 2011 Rookie Team prize. The best rookie will have entry into the 2012 tournament.

But besides the payout there is lot's of reasons why to experience a fishing tournament. The Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship goes all out and has a major celebration. The event starts with the Safeway Kid Pro fishing July 17th from 7am-3pm. On July 19th, there is a Much Music Video Dance Party. The Boston Pizza Parade of Boats begins at 3:00 and then at 7pm the Quest for the Best begins. July 21-23 the fishing starts with the Flight #1 departing from the Government Dock at Pithers' Point Park. Thursday the anglers return at 3:30pm. There's a Chicken 'n Ribs dinner from 4:30-7:30pm. Friday the dinner is Floppin' Fresh Fish Dinner and then Kartune Kriminals and Bed of Roses (Canada's #1 Bon Jovi Tribute Band) hit the stage. Saturday the excitement grows as people wonder who will come in with the biggest catch, who will win? The Top Ten Boat Parade begins at 5:00 and the Angler Awards presentation begins at 7:00. There is a Kiwanis Streak Fry  and in the evening Borderland's favourite local band, Thinking of Pinky takes the stand. For more information visit the FFCBC website or visit their Facebook page.

The 5th Annual Friends and Family Bronze Back Classic is held from July 23-24,  2011 on Lake of the Woods. The entry fee is $400.00 and there is a 100% pay out on entries. The focus of the Bronze Back Classic is to get families, friends, local anglers, long time summer residents, and especially youth involved in this boating event.

Angler showing his bass to the crowd at KBI

August begins with another big bass tournament. The Kenora Bass International  (KBI) is held on Lake of the Woods in Kenora, Ontario from August 4-6th. If there are 150 entries, the top place receives $25,000. There are many other ways to win as well. There are 10 big catch prizes, biggest smallmouth, biggest largemouth, prizes for the top 30 placing in the KBI, adult/youth team, man/woman team and more. See the pay out schedule for complete prize estimates. Every year a battle wages between Canada and the U.S. along the shores of Lake of the Woods. 5 teams representing Canada and 5 teams representing the USA compete against each other for the honour and glory of being crowned the winner and for the Frank Townsend Can-Am Challenge trophy.

Anglers will fish Thursday to Saturday. Delicious dinners and beer gardens welcome anglers and the public in the evenings. Saturday is the big finale with the top 10 boats parading through the tent to an exciting finish. There also is a KBI Kids Tournament that is open to kids ages 4-13. The children will be fishing off the Kenora Harbourfront docks. There will be a prize presentation at the end of each flight, loot bag and t-shirt for every child who participates. A trophy and a special prize will be awarded to the male and female anglers with the biggest bass on each day! There is also free kids entertainment including Minnow Races from 11:30am - 2:30pm. For more information on the Kenora Bass International visit the KBI website. With Shaw as a major sponsor, the tournament can now be viewed on TV. Current standings can also be found on the KBI website once the tournament starts.

Next in the line-up of Sunset Country Tournaments is the Atikokan Bass Classic August 12-13. It is touted as the "Funnest Bass Tournament in the Northwest". Payout is 96% of Team Entry with the first place finish netting approximately $10,000. Besides the top 10 teams, prizes will also go to the best Parent & Child, Grandparent & Child, All Women, Male/Female Teams and for the biggest fish.  Access into Marmion Lake is at  the Anderson Dam Landing.  Competitors are provided a free steak supper the Friday night of the tourney.

Fishermen bringing in their bass to get weighed

The Morson Bass International is held on Lake of the Woods in Morson from August 27-28.  This Catch and Release Bass Tournament  starts at the Government Dock in Morson.  View a video of the Morson Bass International. Like many of the other fishing tournaments in Sunset Country, the MBI has a kids fishing tournament,  yummy dinners and entertainment. You can download an Entry Form or get more information on the Morson Bass International website.

September begins with the Red Lake Fall Classic Catch & Release Walleye Tournament on the Red Lake Chain of Lakes on September 2-4.  Based on 140 team entries, the top prize is $11,000.  Second prize is $5,000 & 2 Humminbird Trolling Locators and third is $3,000 & 2 MinnKota Trolling Motors. See the Red Lake Falls Classic Prize structure for more prizes. Both days the 3 flights leave between 7 and 7:30am. Saturday there is a free supper for tournament participants where they can see the posting of first day standings.  Sunday around 6pm you can visit the Red Lake Legion to see the prize and trophy awards. Saturday afternoon also has a Junior  Championship at the Government Docks. Prizes for all children.

Perch Lake Bass Challenge  is held on the Seine River Chain of Lakes September 4th. Meet at Homer's Cabins on Perch Lake 20 minutes west of Atikokan. Top prize is $1000 & possession of tournament trophy for 3 months. Top 5 win cash prizes. There are also prizes for the biggest fish, Top Lund team, top young angler and top couple. Rules & Boat Checks at 8am, fishing between 9am to 3:30pm. The 2011 PLBC is now full. To get your name on the waiting list, email info@perchlakebass.com

Bassin' for Bucks is a fishing tournament on Lake of the Woods from Sioux Narrows September 9-11. The Sioux Narrows Bassin’ for Bucks tournament format is a two person team, fishing for 3 days, daily and total combined weight, live release tournament. Besides prizes for the top 6 each day, the grand aggregate weight prizes are as follows: 1st place is $6000, 2nd is $5000 and 3rd is $4000. There are also prizes for Tournament Big Fish, Big Smallmouth each day and Big Largemouth each day. Prize structure based on 120 entries. The flights leave between 7:30 & 8 each morning. Must fish these areas: Red Cliff Bay, Yellow Girl Bay, Whitefish Bay, Lobstick Bay, Regina Bay, Cross, Knickerbocker and Blueberry Inlets, and anywhere else accessible by boat that is within the boundaries. Out of bounds is all waters West and North of the longitudinal line #25’ that runs from the Northwestern tip of the Eastern Peninsula, South to the West side of Ferrier Island to the Aulneau Peninsula.

One of the Top 10 anglers parading through the tent

Crow Lake Classic Bass Tournament is held on Crow Lake September 16-17. Held at Hansons Hideaway Lodge on Crow Lake (Kakagi lake). $350 entry fee per team. Download registration form at the Crow Lake Classic website. Based on 50 entries, the top prize is $4,000. The top ten get cash prizes ranging from $4,000 to $350. New in 2011 are first, second and third top daily bag prizes. There is also a team draw for 2 Shimano Rod & Reel Combos, a Secret Number Placement and Closet Team to 10lb Daily bag prizes. The top 2 placing Princecraft boats powered by Mercury motors win 24 volt trolling motors.

During the fall the Ontario walleye tournaments start up again. The Rainy River Walleye Tournament in Rainy River is held September 22-24. The overall prize purse will be $43,450 with the champion earning $15,000. There are prizes for the top 15, 4 hidden weight prizes, a parade prize, River Champ, Day 1 & 2 Big Fish and the Lionel Roberts Memorial Award Largest Basket of Tournament $1,000 prize. Thursday has a parade of boats at 4pm, Fisherman's Dinner (contestants only) and then beer gardens open to the public. Friday, anglers leave between 8:45am & 9:15am. Saturday anglers leave between 7:45 & 8:15am. 3:15 the anglers weigh in and then the Awards Presentation and the Rainy River Junior Curlers Draw follows. There is a  Weekend of fun and excitement for the whole family under the Big Tent on the shores of Beautiful Rainy River! Visit the Rainy River Walleye Tournament website for more information.

The Last Chance Bass is held on Shoal Lake September 24-25. Contact Randy Paishk 807-733-3940 or or Vern Fair  807-733-3191 for more information.

The Whitefish Bay Fall Bass Classic is held in Nestor Falls on Dogpaw, Caviar and Flint Lakes. The tournament runs October 1-. For more information call 807-226-5411.

The third annual Lake of the Woods Walleye Challenge will be held on Lake of the Woods in Morson October 7-8. It is a 2 day fishing tournament. $300 per team. Cash and merchandise prizes to anglers and spectators. Last year 21 teams participated for $6,500 in cash and prizes with 100% of entry fees going back to the top placing entries and prizes for hidden weight, top finishing husband/wife team and top finishing parent/child team.  Spectators and anglers are invited for a dinner at the Morson Hall. For more information call 807-488-5905.

So, while it may sound easy to win 10 or 20 thousand dollars, it is far from it. Sure, there's a lot of luck in fishing, but there is a lot of preparation. Many anglers spend time and money pre-fishing a lake before a tournament. All in all though, a fishing tournament can be quite fun to participate in. Some anglers do the circuit and fish tournaments all summer long, some just do one in their community. The fishing tournaments I have listed here are coming up in the rest of 2011. For a complete list of fishing tournaments in Northwest Ontario, visit our fishing page on Sunset Country's website. Maybe next year I'll be reading about you winning the jackpot.

How to Find Out What Species of Fish Are in a Lake

MNR's New Fish ON-Line Tool

In April 2011, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) launched an awesome new Fish ON-Line tool. Anglers no longer need to visit Ministry of Natural Resources offices or find an in-the-know local fisherman to gather information about the various fishing opportunities in Northwest Ontario. It provides a lot of information that used to be hard to find. Now information about the various species of fish found in a certain lake, fish stocked in lakes and some information about the lake itself is available at ontario.ca/fishing.

The MNR used a Google map and overlaid provincial fisheries data on top of it. The ministry then gathered on-hand information on about 13,000 lakes and has made all of that available as well. On those lakes, Fish ON-Line will let you see what fish species are available, the regulations for the lake and if there has been any stocking. Some lakes have the maximum and average depths of the lake. For many more bigger,  popular waterways such as Eagle Lake, the depth contour information has been overlaid as well.

For example, take Wabigoon Lake. If you click on the Lake Depth Contours in the left hand column, you can see the contours of Wabigoon Lake. Click the fish icon and you'll see the surface area of the lake is 9922 ha, the maximum depth is 14.6 m, the average depth is 6.1 m and it's in the Fisheries Management Zone 5. Click on the Wabigoon/Dinorwic Lakes Fact Sheet and you'll see specific Wabigoon/Dinorwic Lakes fishing regulations and lake facts. Under the Fish tab you'll see that Wabigoon Lake has Black Crappie, Whitefish, Muskellunge, Northern Pike, Sauger, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye and Yellow Perch.

You can quick link to a popular waterway or search by lake, fish species, stocked water body, GPS Coordinates. Use the Get Directions Tool and you can find your way around quite easily. You can also link to Licence Information, the Fishing Zone Regulations and the Lake Fact Sheet. The ServiceOntario offices are dotted on the map if you are looking to buy a Fishing Licence. You can also type in your location and getting directions to the ServiceOntario.

All in all, it is a pretty impressive fishing information tool.  If you are planning a fishing trip to Ontario, check out the Fish ON-Line website to find out more information on the lake you'll be fishing on. If you are looking for a fishing resort or lodge to stay at in Sunset Country visit www.ontarioresortsandlodges.ca

10 Reasons to Shop at Your Local Farmers' Market

Yesterday I finally made it down to Kenora's Farmers' Market. I can't believe it was the third week of the market and I just got to it this week. Going down to the Harbourfront on Wednesdays is one of my favourite things to do in the summer. During the winter the fruit and veggies that are available in Northwestern Ontario have come from far away and are not very fresh by the time they get here. But come summer, the local farmer's bring their goods down to the tent so we can have fresh vegetables just as if we had grown them ourselves. For me, there's nothing as good as biting into a freshly picked carrot. Since my failed attempt at gardening a few years back, I really look forward to biting into the fresh locally grown veggies and fruit.

Jewelery is always a hit.

The Farmer's Market has grown over the last few years to include much more than the fruit and vegetables that I so desire. There are food vendors, Aboriginal Arts & Crafts, Meats, Preserves, Honey, Baked Goods, Arts & Crafts, Sewing, Spices. My dog Reuben loves me every Wednesday as I bring him home a beef bone from one of the vendors. Each and every Wednesday I say to my co-worker, I am not buying any baking this time. But, wouldn't you know it, I get down there and the smell of freshly baked goods gets to me every time. Yesterday a delicious pecan brownie from a new company called the Kenora Brownie Company kept calling my name. It definitely hit the spot.  The Kenora's Farmers' Market is on the Harbourfront every Wednesday from 9am-2pm. 

Many other communities in Sunset Country have Farmers Markets as well. There's the Northwest Farmer's Market in Sioux Lookout. The next one is on July 15th and then runs bi-weekly until the end of September. The market is from 10am-2pm at Centennial Park.

Cloverbelt Country Farmers' Market strives to have only local produce represented, giving you a taste and experience unique to Dryden and its surrounding area. There is also farm fresh produce and meats, home made preserves and baking, and handmade arts and crafts. The Oxdrift Market began June 18 and is located in the Oxdrift Hall. It is open Saturdays 9am-12pm. They also have a second location starting July 7th in Dryden. You can find the Dryden Market in the Dryden Arena parking lot every second Thursday from 3-6pm.

The Clover Valley Farmers’ Market (CVFM) has operated a successful Farmers’ Market for over 22 years. From May to October it's open from 9am-1pm. November and December the Clover Valley Farmers’ Market becomes a local foods and craft store running multiple days a week. The market is housed in a distinctive red building located at 411 McIrvine Road (right behind Canadian Tire) in Fort Frances.

Red Lake Farmers' Market is held once a month from 10am-2pm in the Legion parking lot. Look for products from local farms on July 23, August 20 and September 24. In Sioux Narrows there is a Fresh Vegetable Stand next to the Boutique Soleil on Highway 71 near the Travel Information Centre. It is set up every Wednesday from about 8am until 11am. Rainy River Farmer's Market is held Wednesdays from 4pm-6:30pm at the Heritage Square on Atwood Ave.

Pick up some plants for your garden or homemade preserves.

Why should you visit these Farmers Market? Here are the top 10 reasons.

1. Taste real flavours of fruits and vegetables. There is no doubt that locally-grown foods just simply taste better.
2. Meet the farmers who grow your food. You can ask for advice when it was picked, how it was grown or ways to prepare it.
3. Protect the environment. The closeness of the farms does not require us to waste energy and gas to ship the food half-way around the world.
4. Support local economy by supporting the farmers, artists, bakers and other vendors.
5. Eat seasonally. By shopping at local farmer's markets you are eating produce at it's peak. They are fresh and ripe and loaded with nutrients.
6. Home-made baking. Do I need to say more?
7. Connect with your Community.
8. Meet up with friends, old and new. Chat with seasonal visitors.
9. Pick up some perogies and you don't have to cook supper tonight.
10. It's just plain fun!

For more information on these towns and cities listed above, please visit our website focusing on the communities in Sunset Country. 

Summer Heats Up in Sunset Country

Summer is finally here! Happy Canada Day everyone. Throughout Sunset Country today there will be many celebrations to celebrate Canada. Each community holds unique festivities. Most will top of this day with fireworks that are not to be missed. There is something to be said about fireworks on Canada Day. It's a time I reflect and get somewhat emotional and am really happy to be a Canadian.  

The rest of the summer in Sunset Country is filled with lot's of special events, festivals and things to do. Moosefest in Dryden started June 15th and runs until July 17th. There is a variety of events such as the Dryden Truck Show and Strongman Competition, the Children's Services Fair, National Aboriginal Day, Soap Box Show and Shine, NWO Canoe Races, Dragon Boat Races, fishing tournaments for both adults and kids and the list goes on and on.

The 4th Annual International Tug of War will take place on July 2 between Fort Frances, Ontario and International Falls, Minnesota. Come out and cheer on Fort Frances as they fight to regain the Tug of War Trophy. The friendly tug of war (Pulling for Peace) held between the two cities is in celebration of International Peaceful Borders Day. It's a very unique event that can't happen just anywhere, a 1,200 foot rope is strung across the river for the pull.

Pickle Lake's popular Black Fly Festival is held every year on the July 1st weekend. Enjoy the beauty of the vast wilderness in around Pickle Lake during a float plane ride, take in the children’s activities, take part in the horseshoe or Cribbage and Euchre tournament and enjoy the beach BBQ.

White Otter Days in Ignace is a month long celebration in July. Kick off your Canada Day celebrations in Ignace with the Canada Day Parade. The rest of the holiday is filled with various fun filled events at the Tourist Information Centre and Agimak Beach. Throughout the rest of the month take part in different events which include the Men’s Hockey Tournament, the Childrens' Festival, the Annual Mixed Slo-Pitch Tournament, Agimak Fish Derby and more.

Rainy River holds it's annual Rainy River Railroad Daze July 15-17th. Some of the events are Cardboard Boat and Duct Tape Races, a CCR Tribute Band at Hannam Park and Inflatable Bounce House “Wacky World” on 4th Street.

Harbourfest in Kenora July 29th to 31st are dates to mark on your calendars if you love to hear great bands and party the night away. Kenora's annual Harbourfest takes place over three fun-filled days and you do not want to miss it. This year's line-up of bands include Kenny Shields and Streetheart, Aldo Nova, Honeymoon Suite, Doc Walker, Sloan, The Watchmen, and more. There is something for the entire family including carnival games, face painting and bouncy rides, petting zoo, and pony rides. For more information contact Kenora Tourism or visit the Harbourfest website to purchase tickets.

Sioux Lookout hosts the annual Blueberry Festival July 29th to August 7th. Many of the restaurants in town have cooked up special blueberry themed items on their menus during the festival. There are actually over 100 events that take place including the Sioux Mountain Festival, an art show, tennis, volleyball, golf and bocce ball tournaments, and much more.

The 50th annual Sioux Narrows Arts Festival is scheduled for Saturday & Sunday, July 30th and 31st in Sioux Narrows. The art show has booths from local artists including sculptors, painters, and other mediums. Their talent is quite spectacular. July 31st you can attend the Nestorfest Pig Roast Picnic in Nestor Falls.

Atikokan hold many events during the year including the XY Company's 30k Pursuit-Pro Canoe Race on July 1st, Mudslingers 4x4 Races at the Charleson Recreation Area on August 6-7 and the Atikokan Bass Classic Boat Parade on August 11th.

The Trout Forest Music Festival is held August 12-14th in Ear Falls. It's music in the woods! There currently is 26 bands or solo artists signed up to play including Don Amero, Vince, Andrushko, and Little Miss Higgins. A full line-up can be found at the Trout Forest Music Festival website.

There are many fishing tournaments in Sunset Country. You may want to take part in a tourney, myself I love watching the weigh ins. The final top 10 weigh ins on the last day is so exciting. July and August are mostly Bass Fishing Tournaments and the Walleye Fishing Tournaments start again in September. The Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship is held July 17-23 and the KBI (Kenora Bass International) is held August 4-6th. September starts off with the Red Lake Fall Classic Catch and Release Walleye Tournament on the 2nd to 4th. Visit the Sunset Country website to see a list of all the fishing tournaments in the area.

There are a ton of events to watch, participate in or volunteer at this summer. There are really too many too list. Visit the Sunset Country Events page or visit www.ontariotowns.net to see events listed under each community.