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KNOW YOUR TARGET
FISH SPECIES OF ONTARIO
Ontario anglers can chase powerful predators, deep-water trout, schooling panfish and river fish. Picking a target species helps narrow the lake, season, tackle and lodge.
Walleye and northern pike
Walleye are a top choice for lodge trips because they can be caught with jigs, live bait rigs, crankbaits and trolling gear. They often use current edges, points, weed lines and deeper structure as water warms. Northern pike favour weedy bays, shallow flats and nearby drop-offs. They strike spoons, spinnerbaits, plugs and large soft baits, giving new anglers a clear, hard hit.
Bass and muskie
Smallmouth bass are widely sought on rocky lakes and rivers. They fight hard on light tackle and may be caught around shoals, points, current seams and broken rock. Largemouth bass favour warmer, weedier water in many southern and central lakes. Muskie fishing is a patient search for a much larger predator. It calls for stout tackle, large nets, release tools and a plan that keeps handling time short.
Trout, salmon and more
Lake trout live in cold, deep lakes and may move shallower during cooler water periods. Brook trout favour cold, clean lakes, rivers and streams. Rainbow trout, brown trout, Chinook salmon and coho salmon are part of several Great Lakes fisheries. Yellow perch, crappie, sunfish and whitefish round out many trips and can be good choices for families or winter anglers.
Rules follow the water
Open seasons, size limits, catch limits, bait rules and special exceptions vary by species and Fisheries Management Zone. Never rely on a general species page as a legal guide. Check the current Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary for the exact water you plan to fish, then ask your lodge, guide or local tackle shop about safe handling and local practice.
CHECK BEFORE YOU CAST
OFFICIAL ONTARIO FISHING LINKS
Rules and licence details change. Use the current provincial pages for legal and waterbody facts.
WATCH ONTARIO FISHING
TWO WAYS TO GET ON THE WATER
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Dave Mercer: Facts of Fishing
Dave Mercer fishing videos
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