REWARDS
Tackle These Tips to Prepare for Your Next Fishing Trip
A rod, tackle, bait and your CAA membership are all you need.
By Elisa Keay
Whether you catch something or just get to spend a day at the lake, there’s a lot to love about fishing. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN
It’s hard to decide whether it’s the thrill of the catch, the peaceful shoreline, time on the boat or just the great company that makes fishing such a special pastime. With some insight into the right equipment, bait and regulations, any day can be the perfect day for a fishing trip. Add in a few thoughts on how to use your CAA membership, and you’ll catch more than just dinner — you’ll catch exclusive Member savings and rewards, too.
Fishing gear
Whether you’re going out fishing for a day or a weekend, packing the proper gear is the key to success. It all starts with the right fishing rod, of course, but that’s not all you’ll need. Throw in a net, tackle box, and bait bucket, and you’re set for an adventure. But don’t forget two very important cards — your Saskatchewan angling licence and your CAA membership.
It’s important to have the right gear — rod, bait and tackle — and it starts by knowing what fish you’re after. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF FISH HUNT VISUAL STORYTELLER/TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN
Pro tip: The sporting store Sail carries a wide range of outdoor gear and fishing supplies — and with your CAA membership, you earn up to five percent back in CAA Rewards Dollars. Visit online before fishing season starts for deals on all your gear.
Pro tip: While you’re driving out to your secret fishing spot, your CAA membership will save you three cents per litre on gas and 10 percent off of your purchases at any Shell station.
Fishing season
Saskatchewan is divided into three zones — the Northern Zone, Central Zone and Southern Zone, and fishing season dates vary by zone. Always check The Fisheries Regulations to ensure your catch is in season and that you are aware of catch limits — how many fish you’re allowed to take home and what size they need to be. With this in mind, knowing which species you’re fishing for will determine what bait and lure to select. There are also regulations regarding what kind of live bait is allowed. This is to prevent introducing invasive species or contaminants into waterways.
Saskatchewan has an abundance of fish species. Trout, walleye and catfish like nightcrawlers — big fat worms. But northern pike are more aggressive; they like to hunt their prey. A big lure — a spinner, jerk or jig with some live bait may be the secret to a big catch in the shallows. Burbot, rock bass and whitefish are all prized and make a hearty meal.
Northern pike are a prized catch and are found all over the province. They like the shallows and will go after the right lure. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF FISH HUNT VISUAL STORYTELLER/TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN
Fishing weekend
A day out for fishing is fun, but during a full weekend, you really get to indulge when it comes to honing your sport. It also provides an opportunity to travel a bit further, find something more remote and go after varieties of fish that might not be available locally. Plus, there’s nothing like fresh fish over an open fire or in a hot frying pan. If you’re staying at a hotel, don’t forget to pack a cooler so you can bring your fresh catch back home.
Nothing beats cooking up your fresh catch. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN
Pro tip: For a weekend away, your CAA membership will provide great savings and rewards at many major hotel chains. If you prefer to take the RV, you can add CAA coverage to your Plus or Premier membership for your recreational vehicle.
Pro tip: If you didn’t reel in something for dinner, there’s no reason to go home hungry. Bring your CAA membership to popular roadhouse Montana’s BBQ & Bar and save 10 percent on food and soft drinks. Enjoy a hearty warm-up while you plan that next outing.
Fishing licence
With good company and some nice weather, any fishing trip can be a success. Conservation officers may come to visit, and they’ll be checking to see that you’re following the rules. They may want to see your fishing licence, so keep it handy. Anglers between the ages of 16 and 64 who are not covered by Treaty or Aboriginal rights to fish for food will need one. If you don’t have a fishing licence, you’re likely to face a ticket and fine, so it’s best to be prepared. At the end of the day, whether you head home with a big catch or just great stories of the one that got away, chances are you’ll already be making plans for the next trip before you even reach home.
Fly fishing takes a bit of technique, as you mimic a fly’s behaviour on the water’s surface. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF FISH HUNT VISUAL STORYTELLER/TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN
While fishing is a great reason to get out for a road trip, knowing how to use your CAA membership can add great value. Your membership offers more than just confidence on the road; it gets you great savings and rewards, too. Visit CAA’s Rewards page to find the extensive list of retailers, restaurants, services and goods that partner to bring you savings. And it doesn’t stop there — from vehicle maintenance to car, RV or boat insurance, CAA Insurance Company can add to the savings with exclusive Member-only discounts. CAA