Fishing

Fishing in Northumberland County

Northumberland is one of the most diverse and best places to fish in Southern Ontario. The county is surrounded by water making it the perfect angler's paradise. Fish for walleye, crappie (panfish), bass, carp, muskie (muskellunge), trout, salmon or pike; you won't go home empty handed. Whether you're chasing tournament bass, fly fishing for steelhead on the Ganaraska River, or trolling Lake Ontario, extend your stay and relax at a cottage rental or at one of our many welcoming accommodations.  

With Rice Lake to the north, Lake Ontario to the south, Ganaraska River to the west and the Trent River to the northeast, Northumberland County has no shortage of water! Salmon run in abundance in the fall up the Ganaraska, and in spring opening trout reels in beautiful looking fish.


Spend the summer fishing walleye, bass, and crappie on Rice Lake, or go for some muskie or carp. The Trent River (part of the Trent-Severn Waterway) has historically been a hot spot for fishing; many anglers enjoy casting from the bridge in Hastings or fishing at one of the many conservation areas.

Lake Ontario offers the best salmon fishing in the province. Every year, the Great Ontario Salmon Derby takes place from the second week of July until the end of August. A main weigh-in station is located at the Port Hope Marina. Also offered in Port Hope is a fish cleaning station. With approximately 20 000 participants in previous years, this tournament continues to be the largest in Ontario. This year try your luck and charter a boat with a captain's ticket for your chance to take home a winning fish.

Many other fishing related events and tournaments are held within the county annually. Family Fishing Day is an Ontario wide event that focuses on license free family fishing and first time anglers. Also don't forget to look for Bob Izumi Kids Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Days  that takes place in various locations.

Please remember to fish responsibly and have fun!