THUNDER BAY – OUTDOORS – Dreaming of a peaceful morning on a misty lake with the tug of a trophy walleye or northern pike on the line? You’re not alone.
Fishing in Northwestern Ontario is more than a hobby—it’s a tradition, a tourism draw, and a way to reconnect with nature across some of Canada’s most pristine freshwater ecosystems.
Whether you’re a local newcomer or an out-of-town visitor, here’s your guide to getting started.
What You Need Before You Go Fishing
1. Fishing Licence
Unless you’re under 18 or over 65, you need a valid Ontario Fishing Licence. You can buy one online through the Ontario Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service . There are two options:
The province of Ontario sells 2 different types of recreational fishing licences.
- Sport fishing licence: For anglers who want full catch and possession fishing privileges. In this summary, S refers to limits under a sport fishing licence (such as S-4 = catch and possession limit of 4).
- Conservation fishing licence: A reduced catch and possession limit licence that is ideal for anglers who want to live-release the majority of fish caught. In this summary, C refers to limits under a conservation fishing licence (for example, C-2 = catch and possession limit of 2).
2. Outdoors Card
This is a plastic ID card that accompanies your fishing licence. It’s valid for three years and required for all anglers aged 18–64.
3. Equipment Essentials
Here’s what to bring:
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A rod and reel (medium or medium-light action works well for walleye and bass)
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Barbless hooks if you’re practicing catch and release
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A tackle box with essentials like spoons, jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics
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Live bait (worms and minnows are popular) — Note: bait regulations may vary by zone
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A landing net, pliers, and a cooler or stringer if you plan to keep your catch
Where You Can Go Fishing in Northwestern Ontario
This region boasts over 150,000 lakes, rivers, and streams, offering world-class angling for everything from lake trout to smallmouth bass.
Top Fishing Destinations:
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Lake Nipigon – Known as the “sixth Great Lake,” this massive body of water is a dream for lake trout, brook trout, and northern pike.
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Lac des Mille Lacs – Just west of Thunder Bay, this hotspot is a favourite for walleye and jumbo perch.
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Wabigoon Lake (Dryden area) – A multi-species haven with muskie, pike, walleye, and smallmouth bass.
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Lake of the Woods (Kenora area) – One of Canada’s premier fishing lakes, with thousands of islands and legendary muskie fishing.
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Kaministiquia River – Easily accessible from Thunder Bay, this river provides urban fishing for walleye and pike.
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Quetico Provincial Park – A wilderness paddler’s paradise with remote lakes filled with smallmouth bass and lake trout.
Tip: If you’re new to the region, consider booking a local fishing guide. They know the waters, the hot spots, and how to get you on the fish quickly.
Fishing Regulations & Zones
Northwestern Ontario falls into Fisheries Management Zones 5, 6, and 7, each with its own season dates, slot sizes, and catch limits. Before heading out, consult the Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary for your specific zone.
Common regulations to keep in mind:
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Barbless hooks may be required in certain conservation zones
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Live bait restrictions apply near some waters to prevent invasive species
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Catch and possession limits vary by species and licence type
Safety First
Before launching the boat or heading out to shore:
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Always check the weather forecast
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Wear a PFD (life jacket) if on open water
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Bring bug spray, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit
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Carry a navigation app or map, especially in remote areas
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Let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll return
When to Go Fishing in Northwestern Ontario
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Spring (May–June): Great for walleye, pike, and trout as fish move into shallow water
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Summer (July–August): Best for bass, with warm weather and active surface feeding
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Fall (September–October): Trophy time! Muskie, pike, and lake trout become aggressive
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Winter (December–March): Ice fishing season, especially for perch and lake trout
Final Cast
Whether you’re after that once-in-a-lifetime trophy muskie or simply casting a line off the dock with the kids, Northwestern Ontario is a fishing paradise that offers both solitude and adrenaline. With the right gear, a valid licence, and a little planning, you’re ready to explore one of Canada’s greatest outdoor traditions.
Tight lines!
