Whether you’re traveling internationally or from within Ontario, packing for Canada fishing trips can be a daunting task. When you stay at Rough Rock Lodge and Outpost Ontario fishing lodges, you only have to bring your suitcase, your fishing gear, and yourself. We’ll provide everything else you need—including this extensive packing list! New bodies of water and unfamiliar species of fish mean you’ll want your favorite, trusty fishing tackle, but you might want a few extra tools to help you catch those famously big Canadian fish. So here are the fishing essentials to bring on Rough Rock Lodge’s Canada fishing trips.

Best Lures for your Candian Fishing Trips

  • Spoons will reflect light with random movements to attract fish. Northern pike tends to go for these.
  • Spinners will spin and cast light in every direction, mimicking a smaller fish or prey and works well for catching bass.
  • Live bait is a hassle when traveling, so stick to more easily packed options for your trip. Hard and soft baits should both be in your tackle box. 
  • Jigs combine your lure and your hook, and they attract fish with motion rather than light. They’re best for catching walleye; go for 1/2 to 5/8 oz. for our location.

Other Fishing Tackle to PackPhoto of the Canada fish northern pike

  • Rods: 6- or 6.5-foot medium for walleye and 6- or 7-foot medium-heavy for northern pike. A medium-heavy rod with fast action tip and minimum ¾-oz weight is ideal.
  • Reels for each rod plus one extra. Be sure to pack one extra spool of line per reel and pack more of the line you’ll use most. Stay away from monofilament line, for it has too much stretch and will snap. Stick with 20- to 50-pound test braided line.
  • Leaders (for pike) should be high quality, 9- to 12-inches, and 60- to 100-pound test
  • Ball bearing swivels
  • Hand Towel
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • First aid supplies, including pain reliever, moleskin, and bandaids
  • Waterproof bags such as Ziplock

Suitcase Packing List for Canada Fishing Trips

  • Long-sleeved and short-sleeved shirts
  • Shorts, pants, and zip-off pants if you like
  • Fleece jacket and fleece pants
  • Wool or down jacket
  • Waterproof parka and pants
  • Base layers, such as long underwear or athletic liners
  • Waterproof gloves and glove liners
  • Sunglasses and hat
  • Different weights of socks
  • Comfortable, casual shoes for in the lodge
  • Waterproof boots
  • Sunscreen, bug spray, and other toiletries

Carry-on Packing List

  • Bring extras for essentials like glasses, contacts, or prescriptions
  • Passport and ID
  • One day of clothing in case your luggage is delayed
  • Camera to document your biggest catch
  • Your favorite snacks for in the boat and on the plane

Comfortable Ontario Fishing Lodges

Once you have all your supplies organized, be sure to tape over your tackle box trays to prevent spilling during transport. You want your fishing essentials to stay untangled and ready for our huge Canadian fish. And if you forget something, don’t worry! Rough Rock Lodge always has your back. We want you to have an unforgettable experience here in our slice of heaven. Our relaxing Ontario fishing lodges will leave you feeling rested and prepared for another day of fishing each morning, so call 712- 490 -6891 to schedule one of the best Canada fishing trips.