Jesse and Andrew welcome Travis from Tackle Bros, a tackle shop that focuses on high-end Japanese and unique North American fishing gear. They cover everything from topwater frog fishing to finesse setups, with plenty of laughs along the way.

In this Episode:

• The origins of Tackle Bros and what sets it apart
• Why JDM gear has a cult following—and whether it’s worth the price
• Tactics for fishing pressured waters and choosing the right gear
• How BFS (Bait Finesse System) is changing the game
• A game guessing real vs fake Japanese lure names

Packed with insight, humor, and honest fishing talk, this episode’s a must-listen for bass anglers of all levels.

Find Tackle Bros:

Website: https://tacklebros.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tacklebrosfishing/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Tacklebrosfishing

Due to link limits, please check out the full list of all the links of discussed products on our Patreon Post. Click this link to see the list! https://www.patreon.com/posts/131985782?utm_campaign=postshare_creator

They are not affiliate links so if you do order something please tell them we sent ya!

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this episode, Andrew and Jesse are joined by special guest: Bassmaster Elite Series Emcee and Facts of Fishing Show Host Dave Mercer for a lively and insightful conversation about all things heavy cover bass fishing. The crew dives into essential techniques like flipping, pitching, and frog fishing, sharing expert tips and common mistakes to avoid.

Follow Dave Mercer:

Website: https://factsoffishing.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/factsoffishing/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@factsoffishing

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/mercer-the-awkwardly-honest-fishing-podcast/id1562233088

https://open.spotify.com/show/6e5i85dL7ZwEms1LlExY2c

Mentioned in Episode:

BKK Hooks: https://bkkhooks-americas.com/

Berkley Crash Craw: https://www.berkley-fishing.com/products/powerbait-crash-craw?srsltid=AfmBOoq0usNdRikoHR0LrVJTZuc-qmmAbheWHZ2o6doU9YGmGazEnxva

Berkley Swamp Lord Frog: https://www.berkley-fishing.com/collections/frogs/products/swamp-lord-hollow-body-frog?variant=42291055329419

YouTube Recommendations:

Paddle Board Frog Fishing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMVPIO3jRF0&t=323s

Fishing a Rat for Topwater Largemouth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yx5ai2JZbt8&t=211s

Bass Shore Fishing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cw_c6o62Ekk

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this episode, AOA teams up with musky fanatic Jonah VanGeest to talk all things musky as excitement builds for the upcoming season opener. They break down early season strategies, how to adapt to changing water clarity and weather conditions, and must-have lures every angler should pack. Whether you're a seasoned musky angler or new to the chase, there's something here for you.

In this episode:
- Top lure picks and how to tweak them for max success
- The power of moon phases and when to time your casts
- Gear talk: rod and reel setups, gear ratios, and why confidence matters
- Fishing pressure tactics and reading musky behaviour like a pro
- Why colour choice isn't just a gimmick—it can make or break your day

The guys swap stories on weird weather, vanishing lakes, and how to pivot when the conditions throw you a curveball. It's part tactical masterclass, part fishing campfire chat—loaded with laughs, knowledge, and just enough chaos to keep it real.

Find Jonah:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonahvangeest/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@VANBEAST

We'd like to thank Waterwolf Lures for sponsoring this episode! If you purchase any please mention we set ya!

Waterwolf Lures Website: https://bassmagnetlures-waterwolflures.com/

Mentioned in Episode:

Shadzilla Junior: https://bassmagnetlures-waterwolflures.com/products/shadzilla-jr-7-5-rigged

Savage Gear Burbot Tube: https://www.gagnonsports.com/copy-of-savage-gear-3d-burbot-tube-10-67oz-cisco-f.html

St. Croix Mojo Musky Rod: https://tacklebros.ca/products/st-croix-mojo-musky-trigon-casting-rod

Daiwa Prorex Musky Rod: https://www.gagnonsports.com/daiwa-prorex-musky-rod-95-eh-30-60lb.html

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this high-energy episode, Jesse and Andrew sit down with full-time Georgian Bay fishing guide Matt Martin for a deep dive into the wild world of multi-species angling. From the explosive strikes of northern pike to the prehistoric thrill of sight-fishing for gar, Matt shares his expert strategies, hilarious guiding experiences, and hard-earned tips for targeting some of Ontario’s most underrated species.

You’ll learn:

• How to locate and target big pike based on water temps, seasonal patterns, and lure selection
• Why gar fishing is a must-try — and how to sight-cast to these ancient, toothy missiles
• How fly fishing for carp is the ultimate freshwater challenge (think bonefish… but in your backyard)

Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking to expand your fishing game, this episode is packed with expert insights, real talk, and a few laughs along the way.

Mentioned in Episode:

• Composite Angling - https://www.instagram.com/composite_angling/?api=postMessagehttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fp%2FC6ik27WJvMP%2F%3Fapi%3DpostMessage
• Matt Martin Steelhead Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2141377/episodes/16575954-steelhead-get-dialed-in

Find Matt Martin:

• Website: https://www.smoothriver.ca/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smooth.river.guiding/?hl=en

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this episode Andrew and Jesse sit down with fishing guide Brian Johnston for a deep dive into the essentials of successful walleye fishing in Ontario and focusing on the Halliburton area.

Brian shares his journey in the fishing world and offers practical advice for anglers of all skill levels. The conversation covers key topics like how weather impacts fish behavior, how to choose the right rod, reel, and tackle for different scenarios, and why understanding water structure can make or break your day on the water.

The group also discusses the value of using electronics, how to avoid common mistakes, and why confidence and technique often matter more than the gear you’re using. This is a great listen for anyone who wants to better understand walleye—and how to catch more of them!

Find Brian Johnston:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haliburtonfishingguide/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BRJfishing/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HookedonHaliburton

Website: https://www.haliburtonfishingguide.ca/

Mentioned in Episode:

Megabass 110 jr. - https://tacklebros.ca/products/megabass-vision-oneten-1-jr?srsltid=AfmBOopQA5ek1b-2582jYK2_UoJeCziKLqMy5YJqONzq6wtNpraO422O

Gremlins Hair Jigs: https://www.facebook.com/gremlinscustombaits/

Nishine Smelthead: https://tacklebros.ca/products/nishine-lure-works-smelt-head?srsltid=AfmBOopvM_oo8errwGTnWed3BK0F5soVpdeb6PU6uDAJdUqQYL0sQvln

Megabass Hasedong Shad: https://tacklebros.ca/products/hazedong-shad-3?srsltid=AfmBOop146ZMLxNILXLhKr9H8JIcUxlNMTfOSuIpK9PmOINKLQ4R6pms

Keitech Swimbait: https://tacklebros.ca/products/keitech-fat-swing-impact-2-8?_pos=4&_psq=kei&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Daiwa Canadian Custom Spinning Rod: https://www.gagnonsports.com/daiwa-24-cdn-custom-spinning-rod.html

Daiwa Tatula XT Spinning Rod: https://www.gagnonsports.com/daiwa-tatula-xt-spinning-rod.html

Daiwa TD Eye Spinning Rod: https://www.gagnonsports.com/76-med-light-ex-fast.html

These are not affiliate links. If you do purchase any of these from these shops please mention we sent ya!

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

We made it to triple digits! In this special 100th episode, Jesse and Andrew celebrate the milestone with a jam-packed deep dive into the world of walleye fishing. Joining them is walleye whisperer and Tactical Fishing Gear founder Derrick Soulliere, who shares decades of experience fishing the legendary Detroit River.

From his early days chasing fish to becoming a gear guru, Derrick unpacks the secrets of sonar, the science behind braid choice, and why jigging in strong current separates the rookies from the veterans. He also unveils a brand-new Tactical swimbait that’s got multi-species versatility written all over it.

Expect tactical tips for spring and summer walleye fishing, advice for beginners, shore fishing strategies, and why weather should be your best friend (or worst enemy) on the water. Oh, and there’s a giveaway… because what’s a celebration without free stuff?

Tactical Fishing Gear:

Website: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tacticalfishinggear_/

Mentioned in Episode:

- 7'2 M Powershot Spinning rod: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/power-shot

- 7'2 MH XF Tube Special: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/tube-special

- 7'6 ML XF Finesse Special: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/ned-special

- 9'6 XH Musky Rod - https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/muskie-casting

- 3.5" Tactical Swimbait: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/shop-now/p/35-tactical-swimbait-coming-soon

- Combat Swimmer Musky Swimbait: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/shop-now/p/new-combat-swimmer-9

- Tactical Minnow Split Tail: https://www.tacticalfishinggear.com/tactical-minnow

Special thanks to Derrick for supplying an amazing giveaway for this episode. To enter please find more information on our Patreon page.

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

In this episode Andrew and Jesse are joined by returning guest Bobby Belmonte of 2B Fishing Guiding Service. Bobby breaks down everything you need to know about spring crappie fishing. They dive into crappie behavior during the spawn, the best spots to find them, and what techniques work best. Bobby shares expert advice on essential gear, bait selection and how to use electronics to locate fish more effectively. The guys also chat about loon facts, answer listener questions and listen to ai generated crappie fishing slogans.

This episode is brought to you by Lunkerhunt

Website: https://lunkerhunt.com/

Discount code: Lunkerhunt 20% Off: AOA2025!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lunkerhunt/

Find Bobby Belmonte:

Website: https://2bfishing.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/2b_fishing/

Mentioned:

- Megabass X70 Slow Float Jerkbait: https://tacklebros.ca/products/megabass-x-70-jerkbait?_pos=1&_psq=x+70&_ss=e&_v=1.0&variant=42720333496365

- Megabass Griffin Crankbait: https://tacklebros.ca/products/megabass-sr-x-griffon-bfs?_pos=11&_fid=4bb3b3d1c&_ss=c

- Rapala X Rap: https://www.rapala.ca/ca_en/x-rap?srsltid=AfmBOopv5krflOUhv15FwYUhhQQu3AfDenPqHdGHXSV3CrEin5cjzS_b

- Lunkerhunt Bento Bait: https://lunkerhunt.com/collections/soft-baits/products/bento-bait?variant=32118446948430

- Lunkerhunt Hive Micro Wiggler: https://lunkerhunt.com/collections/soft-baits/products/hive-micro-wiggler

Lunkerhunt Flicker Worm: https://lunkerhunt.com/collections/soft-baits/products/flicker-worm

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers

Jesse and Andrew are joined by renowned fishing content creator Jay Siemens for a deep dive into the world of small craft fishing. They discuss the advantages of kayaks, canoes and small boats for accessing remote waters, essential safety gear, and useful modifications to enhance the experience. Jay shares his journey in content creation, and the importance of storytelling in fishing videos. A listener Q&A covers fishing techniques, gear preferences, and insights into fish behaviour. Tune in for expert tips, great stories, and plenty of laughs!

Special thanks to the CanCast Fishing Show and Daiwa Canada for supporting this show, make sure to check out our Patreon (Link Below) to see how to enter our giveaways.

Cancast Fishing Show (March 30th) - http://www.cancast.show/

Daiwa Website: https://daiwa.us/

Find Jay Siemens:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JaySiemens
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.siemens

Mentioned Videos:

Pike Paradise (FILM): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=is7iW3z5rJc

Search For A Giant (FILM): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1v2XMfC-iR4

We Caught A World Record Fish: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUybosd122g&t=3s

A Week In Alaska (FILM): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8yHHE4QOJo&t=79s

Support the show

We appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link 👆Thanks!

To check out our Youtube, Instagram or other links: https://linktr.ee/average_ontario_anglers