Insider interview with Club APRIL Marine’s new fishing ambassador: Moose Bertew

We are very pleased to introduce you to Moose Bertew as our new fishing brand ambassador for Club APRIL Marine in Ontario.

We’ve had the opportunity to get to know Moose at the various fishing and boat shows held in Toronto over the last few months and we anxiously look forward to following his fishing adventures on the water this summer in Ontario.

How it all began: With a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye, Moose reminisces about being a kid and being introduced to the joys of fishing and boating with his dear old dad. From that moment on, Moose was hooked—literally and figuratively! Fishing was a family affair, with his Dad and his uncle teaching young Moose the ropes from the tender age of six.

As we fast-forward to the present, Moose now has a family of his own. He tells us that his wife is just as crazy about fishing as he is and so are their kids. “Bless their hearts, they’re more into the boating and fish-frolicking side of things, but hey, we’re nurturing the next generation of water lovers here!” says Moose.

Moose has been fishing competitively for 12 years and last year fished in 24 tournaments. Without giving away all of his secrets, he tells us that competitive fishing is all about preparation. About going out to the fishing location ahead of the tournament and scouting out the waters, aka pre-fishing, to find out where those sneaky fish are hiding. Moose tells us it’s a strategic sport, constantly adjusting your approach to land the best catches.

© Moose Bertew

When we ask him if he fishes for the fun or to win, he confesses that it is a bit of both. “There’s nothing like the thrill of the chase and the satisfaction of a perfect catch. But let’s be real—bringing home a trophy is the cherry on top!” says Moose with a sense of satisfaction.

With years of experience behind him, we asked Moose to tell us about some of his greatest fishing tales. There are many stories he could tell us, but if he had to pick just one – it would be that epic showdown with a colossal blue marlin off the coast of Costa Rica. He says “the look on my wife’s face was priceless as she fought to land that giant.”

There was also the fishing in Panama. Surrounded by his fishing buddies deep in the heart of the Panamanian jungle, the anticipation was palpable as they waited for the reels to start screaming, which meant the fun was beginning because the fish were biting. “That day, he tells us, we hit the jackpot! We caught 10 or 12 different species, including some real monsters. Now, that is a memory I will cherish forever. It’s moments like those that reignite my passion for fishing every single time.”

Moose is also passionate about preserving and protecting the environment for the next generation. Every time he goes out fishing, he always takes time to do a cleanup. As for eating his catch, Moose explains “I’m all about catch and release—especially the big game fish. But hey, every now and then, I love a fresh-caught dinner”.

When we asked him what his favorite fish was, he simply laughed and told us, “it’s like choosing a favorite kid—impossible! Whether it is freshwater or saltwater, I love them all. From the feisty pike to the sly bass, and let us not forget the mighty tarpon reigning supreme in the saltwater world. They’re all winners in my book!”

We asked our fishing ambassador to give us some advice for budding angler, and here’s what he told us – “Just dive in! Start small, learn as you go, and do not be afraid to ask for advice. Oh, and always respect the water and its inhabitants—it is their home, after all.” Great advice to remember when we are on the water.

Moose started the Ontario Fishing Club (OFC) before Facebook groups even existed. OFC started with a couple of guys in a garage talking about fishing. The group grew to 14 and then 24, eventually becoming OFC Nation. Moose explains that Ontario’s fish clubs and programs are total game changers for both men and women new to fishing. Whether you want to join a club, attend a workshop, or get involved in conservation, the fishing clubs know what they’re doing and are very welcoming. Members are passionate about fishing and sharing their knowledge. Finally, Moose’s best advice is to “get out there, cast your line and reel in some memories – it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!