Looking to get started with fishing? Fins and Grins Guide Service has you covered. This hands-on program is perfect for beginners who want to learn the ropes from a pro. You'll pick up essential skills like baiting hooks, casting lines, and reeling in catches. Scott Pyke, a Provincially Certified Guide, will show you the ins and outs of fishing gear and teach you how to handle fish safely. Beyond just catching fish, you'll also learn about conservation and respecting the environment. The small group size means plenty of one-on-one instruction as you practice your new skills on the water. Whether you've never held a rod or just want to brush up on technique, this trip offers a solid foundation in fishing basics. By the end of the day, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to start planning your own fishing adventures.

Expert-Guided Fishing Lessons | Sentry Outfitters

Fishing Fundamentals in Action

Join Sentry Outfitters Fishing In Nova Scotia!

Smallmouth, big thrill. 🎣 #BassFishing

Angler with rod reeling in a 5-inch fish in NS

The smallmouth bite is on! 🐠

Hooked on the beauty of Nova Scotia!

Master the Art of Fishing with the Pros

Ready to get hooked on fishing? Fins and Grins Guide Service is here to show you the ropes with their Learn To Fish program. Whether you're a total newbie or just looking to sharpen your skills, this hands-on experience is perfect for anglers of all levels. You'll be casting like a pro in no time under the watchful eye of Scott Pyke, our Provincially Certified Guide who knows these waters like the back of his hand.

What's the Catch?

This ain't your grandpa's boring fishing lesson. We're talking real, down-to-earth instruction that'll have you rigging up and reeling in fish before you know it. Scott and the Fins and Grins crew will walk you through everything from tying knots to reading the water. You'll get the lowdown on different types of gear, learn how to bait your hook without losing a finger, and master the art of the perfect cast. Plus, we'll cover all the important stuff like safety on the water and how to be a responsible angler who keeps our fisheries healthy for years to come.

From Rookie to Rod Master

Forget about stuffy classroom lectures - this is where the rubber meets the road (or should I say, where the line hits the water). You'll get plenty of time to practice your newfound skills with hands-on demos and one-on-one coaching. We'll start with the basics like how to hold your rod and reel, then move on to more advanced techniques as you get comfortable. By the end of the day, you'll be confidently casting, setting the hook, and bringing in your catch like you've been doing it for years. And when you land that first fish? Let's just say the grin on your face will match our company name perfectly.

Hooking into Local Hotspots

One of the best parts about learning with local guides is getting the inside scoop on where the fish are biting. While we can't give away all our secrets (a good angler never tells!), we'll definitely point you towards some productive spots where you can practice your new skills. Whether it's a quiet cove for panfish or a rocky point where the bass hang out, you'll leave with a mental map of go-to fishing holes that'll serve you well long after the lesson's over.

Gearing Up for Success

Don't stress about bringing a boatload of fancy equipment - we've got you covered with all the basics you'll need for the day. From rods and reels to lures and live bait, we'll introduce you to the essential gear that every angler should know how to use. We'll show you how to choose the right setup for different species and situations, and even give you some tips on what to look for when you're ready to invest in your own gear down the line. By the time we're done, you'll be able to walk into any bait shop and sound like you know what you're talking about (even if you're still figuring it out).

Conservation is Key

At Fins and Grins, we're not just about catching fish - we're about preserving the resource for generations to come. Throughout your lesson, we'll weave in important info about fishing regulations, proper catch and release techniques, and how to minimize your impact on the environment. You'll learn why it's crucial to respect size and bag limits, how to handle fish safely to ensure their survival if you're releasing them, and why it's important to pack out what you pack in. We want you to leave not just as a better angler, but as a steward of our local waters.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Brook Trout: These beautiful natives are the jewels of our cold, clear streams. Known for their vibrant colors and feisty fighting spirit, brookies are a favorite among fly anglers and spin fishers alike. They're most active in the cooler months, especially in spring and fall. Landing a wild brook trout is like holding a living work of art in your hands - just be sure to admire them quickly and release them gently to preserve these precious populations.

Lake Whitefish: Don't let their name fool you - these silvery battlers aren't just for ice fishing anymore. Lake whitefish are gaining popularity as a year-round target, known for their hard fights and delicious, firm white flesh. They're typically found in deeper, cooler waters and can be a blast to catch on light tackle. Summer and early fall are prime times to target these underrated sportfish.

Striped Bass: The true rockstars of our local waters, stripers are the fish that dreams (and fishing stories) are made of. These powerful predators can grow to impressive sizes and are known for their aggressive strikes and blistering runs. Spring and fall are the peak seasons when stripers migrate through, chasing baitfish and providing heart-pounding action for anglers. Hooking into a big striper is an experience you won't soon forget!

Smallmouth Bass: Pound for pound, smallies are some of the hardest fighting fish you'll encounter. These bronze bullets are known for their acrobatic leaps and dogged determination once hooked. They thrive in both rivers and lakes, often hanging around rocky structure. Summer is prime time for smallmouth action, but they can be caught year-round with the right techniques. Their aggressive nature makes them a favorite for both novice and experienced anglers.

Chain Pickerel: Often called "snakes" or "gators" by local anglers, chain pickerel are the ambush predators of our weedy shallows. With their long, toothy jaws and explosive strikes, they're a blast to catch on both live bait and artificial lures. They're active year-round but really turn on during the cooler months when other species slow down. Just watch those teeth when you're unhooking them - they've been known to leave a lasting impression!

Time to Get Your Feet Wet

So, are you ready to dive into the world of fishing? Whether you're looking to feed your family, find a new hobby, or just connect with nature, our Learn To Fish program is the perfect starting point. You'll walk away with practical skills, insider knowledge, and maybe even a new fishing buddy or two. Don't let another season slip by wishing you knew how to fish - book your spot with Fins and Grins Guide Service today and start your angling adventure. Trust us, the only thing you'll regret is not doing it sooner. Tight lines and see you on the water!

Learn more about the species

Lake Whitefish

Lake whitefish are a fun challenge for anglers, usually hanging out in the deeper, colder parts of the Great Lakes and inland waters. They average 2-4 pounds but can get up to 20 pounds in some spots. These bottom-feeders prefer cooler temps, so target them in deeper water during summer and shallower areas in spring and fall. November and December are prime spawning months when they move to shallower waters. Whitefish put up a good fight on light tackle and are prized for their delicate, sweet flavor. To catch 'em, try small jigs tipped with wax worms or minnows. A local tip: use a float or casting bubble to keep your bait just off the bottom where these fish like to feed. Patience is key – their small mouths can make them tricky to hook, but the reward is worth it.

Brook Trout

Brook trout are the smaller cousins of salmon, typically 8-24 inches long. They're a favorite for fly fishing in cool, clear streams and ponds. Look for them around fallen trees and boulders in shallow areas. These fish are picky eaters, so matching the hatch is key. Spring and fall are prime seasons when water temps are ideal. Anglers love 'em for their beautiful colors and the challenge they present. They're also tasty if you're keeping a few for dinner. When fly fishing, a long rod helps you place your fly precisely in tight spots. If you're spin fishing, try small spinners or plugs. One local trick: use a snelled spinner with a worm for best results. Remember, brook trout are sensitive to environmental changes, so they're often found in pristine waters – a good sign you've picked a nice spot to fish.

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass, or "smallies," are pound-for-pound one of the hardest-fighting freshwater fish. They typically run 2-6 pounds and love clear, cool waters with rocky or rubble bottoms. Look for them around structure in rivers and lakes. Spring and fall are prime times when they're in shallower water. In summer, they'll go deeper to stay cool. Early mornings and evenings are best for fishing. Smallmouths are known for their acrobatic fights, often leaping clear out of the water. They're fun to catch on light tackle – try a 6-10 pound test line. Soft plastics, jigs, and crankbaits all work well. For a real thrill, try topwater lures in low light conditions. Local tip: when the water's warm, fish deeper with a drop-shot rig to find those big smallies holding near the bottom.

Striped Bass

Striped bass, or "stripers," are powerhouses that'll test your skills. These fish can grow to 70 pounds, though most catches are in the 20-40 pound range. Look for them around structures like reefs, sandbars, and drop-offs, often within yards of the shoreline. They're migratory, so timing is everything. Spring and fall are prime, when they're moving along the coast. Stripers are structure-oriented, so focus on areas with moving water. They're not the fastest swimmers, but they're strong fighters, making for an exciting catch. Anglers love 'em for their size, fight, and excellent eating. Live bait like herring or mackerel works well, but artificial lures can be effective too. Pro tip: try the "figure 8" technique with your lure near the boat – it can trigger strikes from following fish.

Chain Pickerel

Chain pickerel are the smaller, feistier cousins of pike, usually topping out around 24 inches and 3 pounds. Don't let their size fool you – these fish are aggressive predators with razor-sharp teeth. You'll find them in vegetated lakes, swamps, and slow-moving rivers, especially in acidic waters. They love warm, quiet pools. Spring and fall are great times to target pickerel when they're most active in shallow water. These fish are known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic fights. They'll hit just about anything that moves, making them fun for beginners and pros alike. Try spinnerbaits, topwater lures, or live minnows. Local tip: use the "figure 8" technique at the end of your retrieve – it can trigger strikes from following fish. Watch those teeth when unhooking!