Originally Issued April 23, 2012 (Updated April 27, 2012)

Backcountry Update for Anglers

April 28, 2012 marks the beginning of another trout fishing season in Algonquin Park. Just prior to this coming weekend, Algonquin's backcountry will see an increase in backcountry canoe trippers. Anglers headed into the backcountry in the upcoming weeks are reminded of the following:

• Anglers should obtain their fishing licence prior to arriving in Algonquin Park as licences are not currently available at Backcountry Access Point Permit Offices. See the News Bulletin >
• Roads leading to all Backcountry Access Points are open and passable, with no issues reported.
  
• Backcountry Access Points (and Permit Offices) will be open on April 27, 2012 allowing backcountry users to obtain permits and the latest information. See your specific Access Point for details.
  
• Algonquin's creeks, river and lakes are at "summer-like" levels because of a lack of spring rainfall to date. No low water conditions have been reported, few parties have thoroughly explored the backcountry.
  
• Water conditions remain cold and spring canoe trippers should remember that Algonquin's water bodies pose a serious risk of hypothermia should a person fall into the water. As with every spring, visitors should use caution and take the necessary precautions when traveling on the water in early spring.
  
• Fallen trees have been reported on portages, cart trails and interpretive trails as a result of recent high winds and this winter's heavy wet snow. Ontario Parks has issued an important notice about the higher than normal number of blowdowns in the central and eastern portion of the Park. Backcountry staff are continuing to clear fallen trees, but this process takes weeks given the scale of Algonquin Park's backcountry. Anglers are encouraged to use caution on portages and report any maintenance issues to their Access Point Office or to Park Information.
  
• Algonquin Park's fire danger rating has been elevated this spring remaining frequently at "moderate" or "high" because this year's lack of rain. Recent precipitation has reduced the current fire danger rating, but all campers should use caution with campfires as conditions are drier than normal.
  
• Algonquin Park has special fisheries regulations. Anglers must review the current Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary as some of these regulations include:
  
  • Possession (and use) of live baitfish is prohibited
  • No fishing within 100 metres of any dam
  • It is illegal to transfer fish from one water body to another
  • Special trophy Brook Trout lakes exist with additional regulations
  • Slot limits exist on some Highway 60 Corridor lakes
    
• Campers should also review Algonquin's backcountry rules and regulations. Some highlights of specific backcountry rules and regulations include:
  
  • No cans and bottles
  • Motor restrictions
  • Caching boats and motors
  • Closed roads
  • Emergency phone numbers
    
• Campers should obtain the latest Canoe Routes Map to assist with backcountry navigation and understanding of important management messages. The official Canoe Routes Map of Algonquin Provincial Park is available at all Access Point Offices or online.
• Canoe trippers are encouraged to adopt a Leave No Trace philosophy when camping in Algonquin's backcountry.
• Snow is all but gone from Algonquin's backcountry. A 15+ centimeter snowfall on April 24 has melted and the look of spring has returned to the Park. See the images on Facebook.
• All of Algonquin's lakes are ice free as ice out took place a month earlier than average at the end of March. See Ice Out Conditions for more information.
• Trout Fishing Survey - Anglers entering the backcountry from the Lake Opeongo Access Point are encouraged to take a few moments per day to participate in the 2012 Trout Fishing Survey.

Related Information

• Important Notice: Blowdowns in Central and Eastern Algonquin Park
• Backcountry Canoeing
• Fishing in Algonquin Park
• Park Management
• Natural Brook Trout Lakes of Algonquin Park (video)