Match Fishing in Canada: A look into Global Competitive Fishing
Major Fishing tournaments in North America
The world of competitive fishing is as almost as wide and varied as the fish that are in it.
In North America, competitive bass fishing takes centre stage, with Bassmaster’s regarded as celebrity “pro” anglers with most of the big-name sponsorships and media influence when it comes to the sport of fishing.
Pro redfish and walleye circuits are next in line in terms of attendance and potential prize money up for grabs.
Without a doubt, these competitive spaces are vital for the health of the fishing industry in North America, driving the bulk of the advancements in technology, specialized tackle, and technique.
As someone who grew up idolizing, and learning from people who fished competitively on T.V, it was hard to imagine competition fishing looking different than a busy blast-off, boats covered with branding, and tackle commercials featuring the day’s top finishing pros.
Match Fishing
When I was 14, I was introduced to a “new” style of competitive fishing while reading some posts on an online fishing forum.
On the thread, I saw that a small group of competitive anglers would be meeting at one of my favourite local rivers to fish for carp, something I liked to do anyway. I decided to check it out.
Much to my surprise, the event was more than a casual fish-off between friends, it was a well-oiled fishing “match” with designated spots, a fair way to “draw” for a spot, rules on how much bait could be used, and more.
The man organizing the event was Jeff Turner, an experienced angler from the U.K who was passionate about bringing Match Fishing to Canada.
Over the next year or so, Jeff encouraged me and taught me to fall in love with this part of the sport.
As a young teen who was serious about competitive, multispecies fishing, fishing matches offered an inviting, yet deeply competitive environment for me to hone my casting and baiting skills, while continuing to observe fish behaviour and reactions to various fishing techniques.
Years later, I have once again found myself enthralled by match fishing format, and what it means for competitive fishing.
At a time where the major stages in American competitive fishing are fraught with rule changes, polygraphs, and screen limits, I am happy to compete in, and promote the match fishing space.
What is Match Fishing?
Competitive match fishing is an exciting and strategic sport where anglers compete to catch the highest weight or number of fish within a specified timeframe. Throughout most of Europe, match fishing is the premiere competitive fishing format, just as bass angling is here in North America.
Similar to how the game’s greatest in B.A.S.S. are heralded here, top match competitors in various coarse fishing disciplines have become fan favourites in Europe.
Typically held on lakes, rivers, canals, or commercial fisheries (in the U.K), match fishing requires not only skill but also a deep understanding of fish behaviour, water conditions, and bait presentation.
Participants are assigned pegs—specific spots along the bank—and must fish exclusively from their designated area. Match rules emphasize fairness, with anglers relying on their expertise to outwit fish and outperform competitors.
A hallmark of match fishing is the use of specialized gear and techniques. Pole fishing, feeder fishing, and waggler float fishing are common methods, each tailored to suit the venue and target species. Bait selection, precision casting, and maintaining focus are crucial to success.
Match fishing isn’t just about catching fish; it’s about strategy, adaptability, and camaraderie. Events often foster a strong sense of community, with anglers sharing tips, experiences, and stories after the competition.
Whether you're an experienced angler or a curious newcomer, match fishing offers a unique blend of excitement, challenge, and connection with nature. It’s a sport that rewards patience, precision, and persistence, making it a rewarding pursuit for anglers of all levels.
Match Fishing in Canada
A small, but dedicated group of match anglers live in Ontario across the GTA.
Over the past two years, the Match Angling Club of Ontario United has held several matches and rejuvenated the spirit of match fishing in Canada. Bolstered by European immigrants who bring experience from the “homeland”, and local multispecies fanatics, the club is set to hold a full schedule of matches this upcoming spring and summer.
With a $15 main, and $5 big fish entry fee, matches are designed to keep barriers to entry low, and comradery high, offering great opportunities for new and old members to continue to grow their skill base, and love of fishing.
There are also optional side pots for those who want to up the ante.
I look forward to inviting fishing friends out to various matches this year to encourage them into this great tournament format.
If you would like more information about Match fishing, or fishing a club event, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
