Gun ranges, clubs on the decline Canada has lost nearly a third of its gun ranges since the end of 2020, according to RCMP statistics. RCMP figures report there were 1,245 ranges in Canada as of Dec. 31, 2020, as compared to Continue reading Gun ranges, clubs on the decline
Firearms program applications moving online After decades of paper applications being the preference for initial firearms licence applications and renewals, the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) process is moving towards accepting online applications. First-time applicants (individuals, businesses, carriers, and shooting clubs and ranges) Continue reading Firearms program applications moving online
Great Lakes whitefish in decline Whitefish numbers are down in some parts of the Great Lakes, and it is believed zebra and quagga mussels are to blame. Fish populations fluctuate with water quality, food web changes, and introduction of new Continue reading Great Lakes whitefish in decline
Finding downed birds Few things are sweeter to a wing shooter than making a good shot on flying game birds. If you don’t recover that bird, however, that feeling quickly turns sour — no one wants to leave a fallen game bird in Continue reading Finding downed birds
Adapting hunting practices for age My hunt camps have reached a critical point. Our members are aging, and most of us are retired. We suffer from sport, work, lifestyle, and age-related maladies. Our kids seldom hunt with us because of their own families, Continue reading Adapting hunting practices for age
Are you gearing up for the fall hunting season? With many hunting seasons opening across Ontario in the coming months, we are sending this early reminder of your chance to win a brand-new ATV through the Can-Am Report and Win Continue reading Report and you could win a Can-Am Outlander PRO Hunting Edition!
On the straight and arrow When teaching a new shooter, I will have them use flu-flu arrows because they are more forgiving to beginners and are fun to watch in flight. I always say “Feathers are your friend.” Understanding how Continue reading On the straight and arrow
MNR name returns Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) has reverted back to the name most anglers and hunters know best — the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). This was prompted by changes made to the Executive Council of Continue reading MNR name returns
On lifejackets Editor’s Note: Transport Canada is seeking feedback about the possibility of making personal flotation devices (PFDs) or lifejackets mandatory for recreational boaters. For more background, or to complete the survey, click here. The deadline for submissions is Nov.4, 2024. I grew up Continue reading On lifejackets
Feedback sought on possible mandatory PFDs Transport Canada is seeking feedback about the possibility of making personal flotation devices (PFDs) or lifejackets mandatory for recreational boaters. Not using a PFD or lifejacket is the leading cause of death among recreational boaters, Continue reading Feedback sought on possible mandatory PFDs
DIY: Emergency ankle wrap Outdoor pursuits of any sort pose the risk of turning an ankle. For me, it happened in Algonquin Park. I sauntered all over, exploring places I’d never been, before deciding to head back mid-afternoon. Two Continue reading DIY: Emergency ankle wrap
Setting up tarp shelters The A-Frame Tarp Backpackers and backcountry canoeists have some of the coolest gear. Take, for instance, the compact and lightweight tarps they carry. They’re ideal for making quick shelters to protect you from the rain, sun, or wind. Continue reading Setting up tarp shelters
Mandatory reporting penalties changing The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) is proposing changes to the penalties for failing to submit a mandatory hunting report. Currently, if a hunter fails to submit a hunter report on two consecutive occasions for the same species, Continue reading Mandatory reporting penalties changing
Wabigoon Lake for fall muskie The lack of muskie around Thunder Bay may be why I’m so infatuated with them. Or, maybe it’s just because they are elusive, challenging, finicky, toothy…and big! No matter the reason, I’ve sought to take Continue reading Wabigoon Lake for fall muskie
Ask a CO: Sight in from a vehicle Q: I know it is illegal to shoot game using your vehicle as a steady rest, but can you sight in your firearm while leaning on a vehicle? Kirt Males, North Bay A: No. Continue reading Ask a CO: Sight in from a vehicle
Ask a CO: Hunting waterfowl across provinces Q: I have a Quebec hunting licence (including small game). If I buy a federal migratory bird permit, do I still need an Ontario Outdoors card and small game licence to go hunting waterfowl Continue reading Ask a CO: Hunting waterfowl across provinces
How to avoid blowing up batteries This conventional battery died at the hands of a guy who is notoriously bad at maintaining batteries — me. I left it to trickle-charge for the winter and something went terribly wrong. The evidence suggests the Continue reading How to avoid blowing up batteries
In early September 2024, Transport Canada opened consultation on a proposal to make personal flotation devices (PFDs)/lifejackets mandatory for recreational boaters. The proposal could have a variety of impacts on everything from age requirements, vessel size, and vessel type including Continue reading Transport Canada looking to make PFDs & lifejackets mandatory
Enhancing your deer habitat
Ontario and the federal government announced almost $70 million in funding to implement a Caribou Conservation Agreement that will extend to 2027. The agreement includes $29 million in federal funding that will help the province continue to build on progress outlined in the Continue reading Caribou conservation agreement signed