It takes some heartiness and dedication, but ice fishing is a fun way for anglers to embrace our long northern winters! Destination Ontario has released a list of the province’s best ice fishing destinations.
Have a great time but remember to be safe!
For more info on ice fishing regulations in Ontario go to: https://www.ontario.ca/page/ice-fishing
Lake Nipissing
Recently named Canada’s top ice fishing destination for 2023 by Fishing Booker, Lake Nipissing is known for walleye, perch, pike and whitefish. Located on the south shore, Lake Nipissing Ice Charters in Callander is conveniently close to OFSC snowmobile trails. Snowfari Adventures in Powassan will set you up in comfortable two- to ten-person overnight bungalows that even include private heated toilet facilities.
The lakes of Algoma Country
Bordered by Lake Superior and Lake Huron, Algoma Country is a favourite for passionate anglers looking for hard water action. Ice huts and lakeside cabins are available on Highway 129.
Lake Erie
Ontario’s southernmost waters, Lake Erie, is the shallowest of the five Great Lakes and maintains the mildest temperatures. Because of this, Erie boasts close to 50% of the fish population in the Great Lakes. There are great ice angling opportunities for yellow perch and northern pike. Many local businesses provide transportation, heated ice huts, firewood and live bait.
Lake Simcoe
Lake Simcoe is synonymous with ice fishing in Ontario. The diverse fish population includes herring, yellow perch, lake trout, whitefish, and northern pike. And because it freezes over completely in winter, Lake Simcoe is a go-to for the winter pastime. It’s often referred to as the ice fishing capital of North America.
Local operators provide half-day, full-day, or evening rentals.
Photo Courtesy: Rick Langford
Finally caught a 12″ Cisco (Lake Herring), perfect for the smoker! Had a nice afternoon in the Ice Hut on Ahmic Lake. Also caught a 2 lbs SM Bass, some Perch but no Pickerel (Walleye) yet.
Rice Lake
East of Toronto, Rice Lake is part of the Trent-Severn Waterway and boasts more fish per acre than any other Ontario lake including bass, pickerel, muskie and some impressively sized carp. Local businesses provide heated ice hut rentals, bait, lures, poles and licences.
Georgian Bay
Georgian Bay is the northeast arm of Lake Huron is one of Ontario’s most cherished destinations and the fishing is legendary – even in the winter! Georgian Bay species include bass, catfish, pike, salmon, trout, walleye, sturgeon and tiger muskie.
705BLACKFLY.COM owner Mike Hooper scored this 15LB pike near Dillon Cove Marina on Georgian Bay
