Picture it: standing knee-deep in a cool, sun-drenched stream, trout or salmon breaking the surface of the water all around you while you cast your line to catch one of those babies, heart racing with excitement. Such an image is not at all far-fetched when it comes to fishing in Canada, and thousands of anglers from around the world converge on Canada's hundreds of thousands of square miles of lakes, streams and rivers throughout the country every year.

Canada offers fishermen of all ages, sexes and experience levels a wealth of fishing opportunities and adventures, no matter what you want to do. Spectacular landscapes, mountain ranges, valleys and canyons delight visitors to the Canadian wilderness every summer, spring and fall, and even more daring fishermen venture to Canada in the winter to participate in some of the world's finest ice fishing during colder months.

Fishing in Canada reaps more than just salmon, and trout, pike, halibut and everything in between are plentiful, as is fresh air, bright skies and endless forests and meadows, making Canada a favorite for everyone. Families, loners and groups are more than welcome to any number of fishing lodges, camps or resorts scattered throughout the various provinces in Canada. Whether you want to hike in, ride in, drive in or canoe in, there's a fishing adventure waiting for you in Canada. Many people head south or west for their fall fishing, but why not head north and skip the crowds and enjoy some cooler temperatures for a change?

Fishing excursions can be custom planned by fishing outfits or you can make arrangements through your local travel agency. Most people these days make their plans on the Internet, directly with fishing providers throughout Canada. Want to reserve a cabin in the wilderness for yourself or your family? Make sure you plan ahead, because these places go fast during the summer months. If you want to try fishing in Canada in the spring, for example, it's a good idea to make reservations, depending on where you want to stay of course, the previous fall. Some places fill up fast, so the more popular or the more amenities offered, the quicker you can figure they'll fill up. When in doubt, give any place you're considering a call and ask them about their booking schedule and rates.

Many fishing camps, lodges and resorts offer guided day or weekend trips, though many anglers decide to hit the streams alone. Always let someone know where you're going, and don't forget to treat the forests and the wildlife they contain with a healthy respect. If you want a guide, make sure you book early for their services.

Canadian waters carry a wide variety of fish, and anglers have their choice to fly fish, reel fish, or you can fish off banks, boats and anything else that suits your fancy, but always plan ahead and let your chosen lodge know exactly what it is you'll be wanting, and they'll do their best to fill your needs.