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FRESHWATER HORIZONS
FISHING ON ONTARIO'S GREAT LAKES
Ontario touches all five Great Lakes. Their open water, bays, channels, islands and tributaries support many fish species and trip styles.
A lake is not one fishery
Each Great Lake has ports, basins and shorelines with a different fish mix. Salmon and trout draw trollers to open water. Walleye fisheries support both charters and private boats. Bass, perch, pike and muskie use bays, reefs, rivers and channels. Choose a port based on the species and trip date, then ask local operators what the water usually offers.
Why a charter helps
A charter captain supplies the boat, safety equipment, specialized tackle and working knowledge of the port. This is useful for visitors who do not own big-water gear or want to learn a trolling spread. Ask how many guests the boat carries, what is included, whether fish cleaning is offered and what weather policy applies.
Big-water safety
The Great Lakes can build steep waves and cold-water hazards quickly. Check marine forecasts, wear suitable flotation and know the limits of your boat and crew. Carry required safety equipment, dependable communication and more fuel than the planned run needs. When in doubt, stay in port or fish sheltered water.
Build a waterfront trip
Port towns often add beaches, parks, trails, restaurants, museums and boat tours. That makes a charter day easy to pair with a weekend or family holiday. Book lodging close to the departure marina, confirm parking and arrival time, and leave room in the schedule for a weather delay.
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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