1883 - July 26

For Hamiltonians in 1883 who were inclined to fish or hunt, the presence of the bay on the city’s doorstep was welcome. Although there were some signs of the water becoming polluted in some sections, it was generally believed that all fish pulled from the bay were edible.

During the morning of July 26, 1883, an interview was made a member of a local organization created with helping the hunting and fishing in the Hamilton vicinity from being exploited and even eradicated by illicit means:

“The Fish and Game Protective Association, of this city, said Mr. McKeand to a Spectator reporter this morning, has done good service for sportsmen in and around Hamilton. At present, it has a membership of from 160 to 180, comprising the best men of the community, and it is in a position to employ a number of game-keepers to look after pot hunters and others who offend against the law. Consequently, the honest sportsmen are protected from the poachers who sweep the waters with small-meshed nets, and snare game in the fields and woods.

“To encourage fishing, I offer a prize of $5 to whoever lands the largest bass or pike. So far, the heaviest caught has been one weighing 5 pounds, 4 ounces.

“Yes, fishing in the Bay is good at present, but it will improve as the season advances. There is very little fly-fishing done here, but bait fishing is one of the principal amusements of the people. The baits in use are crawfish, natural or artificial, grasshoppers, minnows and worms. I think the grass hopper bait is the most attractive at this time of year. However, there are differences of opinion.

“Trolling will not commence for some time yet as the weed s are now very high. The gunning season will open on August 1, when the close period for woodcock will end. The snipe and mallard, gray duck, black duck, wood and summer duck season will open on August 15. Sportsmen are getting ready for it now, and we may expect to hear some lively popping shortly.”¹

¹“Fishing in the Bay : The Season Said to be a Good One – Opening of the Gunning Season.”

Hamilton Spectator.   July 26, 1883.