The 12 Best Fishing Spots in Ontario

Ontario is a paradise for anglers, offering a plethora of prime fishing locations amidst its vast and varied landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual angler, this province has something for everyone.

With over 250,000 lakes and numerous rivers, you'll find plenty of opportunities to cast your line and reel in a big one.

If you're planning your next fishing trip, look no further than this guide. Here, Ask Genie offers 12 of the best fishing spots in Ontario, along with the best times to go throughout the year.

We explore the types of fish each spot is known for and the species you can expect to find. So, without further ado, here are the 12 best fishing spots in Ontario, Canada.

1. Lake Simcoe

Lake Simcoe is known as the "ice fishing capital of North America," but it's equally popular in the warmer months. Located just an hour north of Toronto, it's teeming with lake trout, whitefish, perch, and bass. You'll find plenty of action here whether you're fishing from a boat or on the ice.

Lake Simcoe

2. Lake of the Woods

In Northwestern Ontario, you'll find the Lake of the Woods, a fishing haven with over 14,500 islands. Anglers come here for the abundant walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. The picturesque landscapes make it a perfect spot for a fishing getaway.

3. Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Park is not only a wilderness gem but also a top fishing destination. The park's numerous lakes and rivers are home to brook trout, lake trout, and smallmouth bass.

Head into the interior lakes for a more secluded experience and beautiful trout fishing opportunities.

Algonquin Provincial Park

4. French River

The French River is a historic waterway that offers excellent fishing opportunities. This river is rich with walleye, northern pike, muskie, and smallmouth bass. It's an ideal spot for a peaceful fishing trip surrounded by natural beauty.

5. Bay of Quinte

Known for its trophy-sized walleye, the Bay of Quinte is a must-visit for serious anglers. Located on Lake Ontario's north shore, this bay also hosts bass, pike, and perch. Fall is the prime time for walleye fishing here.

6. Rainy River

Rainy River, which forms part of the border between Ontario and Minnesota, is a fantastic location for sturgeon, walleye, and smallmouth bass. The river's swift currents and deep pools are perfect for these species.

7. Lake Nipissing

Lake Nipissing is a large, shallow lake known for its diverse fish population, including walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, and bass.

Located in central Ontario, Nipissing is one of the province's most accessible fishing destinations.

Lake Nipissing

8. Georgian Bay

Part of Lake Huron, Georgian Bay boasts over 30,000 islands and numerous fishing opportunities. Anglers flock here for salmon, trout, bass, and pike. The bay's clear waters and scenic surroundings add to the allure.

9. Ottawa River

The Ottawa River offers excellent fishing along its entire length, with abundant muskie, walleye, and bass populations.

The river's proximity to Quebec makes it a convenient destination for anglers of all levels.

10. Lake Erie

Lake Erie is one of the Great Lakes, known for its thriving walleye, large- and smallmouth bass, perch and big rainbow trout populations.

Erie's warm, shallow waters provide ideal conditions for these species, making it a hotspot for recreational and competitive fishing.

Lake Erie

11. Lake Temagami

Located in Northeastern Ontario, Lake Temagami is famous for its pristine waters and excellent fishing for lake trout, walleye, and smallmouth bass. The lake's numerous islands and bays offer countless spots to explore.

12. Kawartha Lakes

The Kawartha Lakes region is a favourite among anglers for its easy accessibility and diverse fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, and muskie. The interconnected lakes provide endless opportunities for exploration.

Kawartha Lakes

What Fish are Native to Ontario?

Ontario's vast and varied aquatic ecosystems are home to an impressive array of fish species. Anglers visiting the province can look forward to catching the following native fish.

Walleye

Known for their delicious, flaky white meat, walleye are a favourite among anglers. They are most active during the early morning and late evening hours, making these the best times to fish for them. Walleye are commonly found in the Lake of the Woods, the Bay of Quinte, and Lake Nipissing.

Northern Pike

These aggressive predators are known for their sharp teeth and thrilling fights. Northern pike are prevalent in many Ontario waters, including the French River, Rainy River, and Lake Nipissing. They thrive in weedy areas where they can ambush their prey.

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass are known for their feisty nature and aerial acrobatics when hooked. They are commonly found in Lake Simcoe, the Ottawa River, and Kawartha Lakes. These fish prefer rocky shorelines and areas with plenty of cover.

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth bass are known for their powerful fights and striking ability, making them a popular sport fish. They are typically found in warmer, shallower waters like Kawartha Lakes and Georgian Bay.

Lake Trout

Lake trout are deep-water dwellers often found in cold, clear lakes like Lake Simcoe and Lake Temagami. They are highly sought after for their size and the challenge they present to anglers.

Brook Trout

Brook trout are native to Ontario's streams and smaller lakes, especially in the Algonquin Provincial Park area. They are known for their vibrant colours and are a prized catch for fly fishermen.

Muskellunge (Muskie)

Muskies are known as the "fish of 10,000 casts" due to their elusive nature. These top predators can grow to impressive sizes and are commonly found in the French River, Georgian Bay, and Lake Nipissing.

Yellow Perch

Yellow perch are a staple of many Ontario lakes, including Lake Erie and Lake Simcoe. They are relatively easy to catch and make for a delicious meal.

Whitefish

Whitefish are typically found in the deeper, colder waters of lakes such as Lake Simcoe. They are known for their mild, delicate flavour and are a popular target during ice fishing season.

Sturgeon

These ancient fish are found in Ontario's Rainy River and other large river systems. Sturgeon can grow very large and are a significant catch due to their size and rarity.

Salmon

Various species of salmon, including Chinook and Coho, can be found in Ontario's Great Lakes, especially Lake Ontario and Georgian Bay. They migrate up rivers to spawn, providing excellent fishing opportunities in the fall.

Crappie

Black and white crappie are popular among anglers for their tasty, flaky flesh. They are often found in the Kawartha Lakes and other warm, shallow waters.

When is the Best Time to Go Fishing in Ontario?

With such a diverse climate and population of fish, there are plenty of excellent times to go fishing throughout the year in Ontario.

However, certain times of year are better suited for catching specific types of fish, so we've compiled this list based on the best times to catch various species.

Spring (April - June)

Walleye and Northern Pike

The spring spawning season makes these fish more accessible as they move into shallower waters. Lake of the Woods, Bay of Quinte, and Lake Nipissing are prime locations during this time.

Brook and Lake Trout

Trout become more active as the water warms. If you're considering a spring trip, Algonquin Provincial Park and Lake Temagami offer excellent trout fishing opportunities.

Crappie and Perch

These species spawn in the spring and can be found in shallow waters, making them easier to catch in lakes such as Lake Simcoe and the Kawartha Lakes.

Summer (July - August)

Bass (Smallmouth and Largemouth)

Bass are most active in the summer, especially in the Kawartha Lakes and Georgian Bay. Depending on the time of day, they can be found in both shallow and deeper waters.

Muskellunge

Summer is ideal for targeting muskies, particularly in the French River and Lake Nipissing. These fish are often found in weedy bays and along rocky shorelines.

Salmon

Summer marks the beginning of the salmon run in the Great Lakes. Lake Ontario and Georgian Bay are excellent for salmon fishing during this time.

Fall (September - November)

Walleye and Northern Pike

As water temperatures cool, walleye and pike become more active again. The Bay of Quinte and Rainy River are top spots for fall fishing.

Salmon and Trout

Fall is prime time for salmon and trout as they migrate upstream to spawn. Rivers and tributaries connected to Lake Ontario and Georgian Bay are hotspots for catching these species.

Muskellunge

Fall is another great season for muskie fishing as they increase their feeding activity to prepare for winter.

Winter (December to March)

Walleye and Perch

Ice fishing for walleye and perch is very popular on Lake Simcoe, known as the 'ice fishing capital of North America.'

Lake Trout and Whitefish

These species are active under the ice and can be found in deeper lakes like Lake Simcoe and Lake Temagami.

Northern Pike

Ice fishing for pike is also productive, with many anglers setting up tip-ups in weedy bays. Ontario has a diverse fish population and abundant spots to catch them all year round.

So, whether you're fly fishing from a boat, shore fishing, or even casting your rod through ice, there are plenty of opportunities in the Loyalist Province.

Now you know the best fishing spots in Ontario, all you've left to do is grab your fishing gear, secure your license, and head out to one of these glorious destinations. Happy fishing!

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