Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are you allowed to use landing nets in the Kingston CISA Open?

A: Yes 100%.

Q: What type of fishing license do I need?

A: All competitors are required to have a valid Ontario Sportfishing License (the Ontario Conservation License is not acceptable). Additionally: Any competitors fishing in New York state waters must carry a valid New York state fishing license.

Q: Do I have to wear the CISA logo on my jersey?

A: Yes! You are now a member of the Canadian International Sportfishing Association. For media purposes, we require everyone to wear the logo, either on their hat or jersey. A digital copy of the

logo is available at: www.fishcisa.ca. Additionally: fabric stickers will be available, as well as hats and other suitable apparel prior to and at the event.

Q: Can I still fish my bass tournaments the weekend before in Baitfuel and CSFL? 

A: Yes! Lake Ontario waters only will be off-limits the week prior to Official practice. The cutoff boundaries by design match those of both the CSFL and Baitfuel, the boundaries were designed to

protect the anglers competing in those events.

Q: Can I still register after the deadline of April 1st?

A: Yes! Registrations will be accepted with full entry after April 1 st , 2025, until 1 week prior to official practice. CISA will maintain a waiting list of up to 125 teams who will be invited to compete on a first come first serve should a previously registered team have to withdraw. Full Entry fees will be returned in full to anglers if no

spots are available prior to the event.

Q: Can I bring my family to watch the event?

A: Yes! We encourage all teams to bring their friends and family. Come and enjoy the street festival and Outdoor Expo. The City of Kingston is an inviting community, and their waterfront amenities are second to none.

Q: Is there a designated area for weigh-ins?

A: Yes! The street festival, EXPO, and daily weigh-ins will all be held in Kingston’s downtown waterfront centred around Confederation Park.

Q: Are there restrictions on bait or lures?

A: Yes! See rule #9

Q: Can we use live bait?

A: No!

Q: Is there an age limit for participants?

A: Yes! see rule #1

Q: Will there be safety checks before the tournament?

A: Yes! All boats will undergo a safety inspection before launching to ensure compliance with tournament safety standards.

Q: Are there accommodations for anglers with disabilities?

A: Yes! The event strives to be inclusive and accessible. Please contact the organizers in advance to discuss any specific needs.

Q: What is the policy on alcohol during the tournament?

A: All Federal and Provincial fishing, boating, and criminal laws and regulations must be adhered to; noncompliance may result in disqualification without refund.

Q: Will life jackets be required?
A: Yes!

Q: Is there a minimum boat size to compete?
A: Yes! All boats must meet the minimum length of 17 feet with min 50HP Outboard.

Q: Will there be a penalty for late check-ins?

A: Yes! See Rule #30.

Q: Are there prizes for categories other than first place? 

A: Yes! 20% of the entire field 1:5 get paid Biggest daily fish rewards, and a host of other prizes.

Q: Can I use a trolling motor during the competition? 

A: Yes!

Q: Is there a limit to the number of rods I can use at one time? 

A: Yes, competitors may only use one rod at a time while fishing during official practice or tournament hours.

Q: What is the procedure if a competitor's boat breaks down during the tournament?

A: reference rules #26 to #29

Q: Are pre-fishing or practice sessions allowed?

A: Yes! see Rule #6

Q: Are there any restrictions on electronics and fish finders?

A: No!

Q: What happens if there is severe weather during the event?

A: see Rule #32. Competitors are encouraged to practice safe boating and exercise caution.

Q: Are pets allowed at the event site?

A: Yes! Pets are allowed at the event site; they must be leashed and under control at all times.

Q: How will the final standings be determined?

A: Final standings will be based on the total cumulative weight of fish caught during the competition

days.

Q: Can I fish in both Canadian and U.S. waters?

A: Yes!

Q: Will there be an official photographer at the event?

A: Yes! CISA has put together an entire Media Team that will be onsite throughout the event.