Toronto tykes had a chance to learn about the fine art of fishing as the Fall Fishing Festival returned to Ontario Place on Saturday.
Ontario Place stocked its Riverwalk fish habitat with 130 fish of a dozen varieties from Lake Ontario
Professional angler Dave Mercer gave children a fun-filled introduction to the popular Canadian family pastime.
"All sorts of kids -- maybe they have fished once, maybe they have fished 50 times, maybe they have never fished -- they get introduced to the sport of fishing," Mercer said. "We bring them right downtown to Ontario place."
Mercer said his greatest reward is having kids excited about being outdoors. He said kids who grow up loving to be outside are likely to grow up with an appreciation of nature.
"There are all sorts of fish in there, from tiny fish to giant big ones. We have some Northern Pike, some salmon and trout, you name it," said Mercer.
While having fun, children learned about various fish species in local waters, different fishing techniques and conservation initiatives that are underway in Ontario.
"I just think it is a great opportunity for them to try fishing. My son loves fishing," said Helen Hryhorchuck, who went downtown with her son Matthew, 10. "Take a little country into the city, it's great."
Some visitors were less than enthusiastic about some aspects of the outdoor sport, specifically handling the bait.
That didn't scare off 10-year-old Annabelle Chin, who was hard at work, despite a slow start. She had to learn that, in fishing, waiting can be the hardest part.
"It's fun to catch fish, but you have to be really patient because it is sometimes hard," said Annabelle.
With a report from CTV's Sneha Kulkarni
