Don't let the word "remote" fool you; Conservation Officers (COs) in Ontario, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan are very active and often use floatplanes or helicopters to visit even the most isolated outpost camps. When they arrive, they will check for valid fishing licenses, ensure you are within possession and size limits, and verify that your tackle (such as barbless hooks) meets provincial regulations. Remember that fish posession limits are per person, not for the whole group – each boat must only possess the appropriate limit for the anglers in that boat, and each angler may only contribute fish up to their posession limit. COs may also inspect your cooler for alcohol and your boat for required safety gear, such as life jackets, a bailing bucket, waterproof light, floating rope, and a sound-signaling device.

To ensure a stress-free inspection, keep your license on your person at all times, perhaps in a floating waterproof phone pouch. If you have fish in the freezer, make sure they are packaged according to the rules (identifiable skin patches and individual wrapping). It is also wise to keep a "daily log" of what you've kept and eaten for shore lunch to show the officer you are diligent about your limits. Most COs are friendly and share a passion for the outdoors; they are there to protect the resource so that the fish populations remain healthy for years to come. Following the rules not only avoids heavy fines but also contributes to the conservation of the Canadian wilderness.