Ever tried fishing through a hole in the ice, with snow-covered trees around you and a frozen lake under your boots? Ice fishing in Canada isn’t just about the fish. It’s a full-on winter adventure.
You can sit in a cozy, heated hut on Lake Simcoe or head deep into the wild in the Northwest Territories. There is something for everyone here. This guide has everything you need to know about ice fishing, whether you’re a beginner or want to go on a fancy trip in the cold.
We’ll tell you real stories, give you simple tips, and show you the best lakes to help you enjoy one of Canada’s coolest traditions.
Table of Contents
Ice Fishing Basics for Beginners
When I first tried ice fishing, I wasn’t sure what I was getting into. I’d spent summers fishing off the dock, but standing on a frozen lake with a tiny rod in the middle of winter? That was a whole new world. I had the right gear and some help from friends. That made it easy to enjoy.
I really fell in love with it during my first trip ice fishing in Canada. The snow, the quiet, and that first pull on the line. It was something I will never forget.
Safety comes first. First, look at the ice. It should be at least 4 inches thick before you walk on clear ice. Always have ice picks and a rope on hand, and test as you go with a spud bar. I also learned the hard way that traction cleats on your boots aren’t optional; one slip and you’ll wish you had them.
Start with Safety
Beginners don’t need a lot. A short rod that is 24 to 36 inches long is a good place to start. Use a fishing line that is light, like 4 to 8 pounds. Bring a small tackle box with jigs and bait in it. I used waxworms and minnows first, and they worked great for panfish. Use a chisel or auger to make your hole. Get rid of the slush with an ice scoop.
A bucket or sled helps carry your gear, and you can sit on it, too. Tip-ups are also great for hands-free fishing watching that flag pop up never gets old.
Dress for the Deep Freeze
My first time out, I underestimated the cold. Now I always wear insulated layers, waterproof boots, and a good hat. Ice bibs with padded knees help when you kneel. A flotation suit keeps you safe and adds peace of mind.
Drilling and Fishing
Most holes are 4 to 8 inches wide. I use a hand auger, which takes a little muscle but gets the job done. Once the hole’s ready, I drop a jig down and gently bounce it off the bottom.
That little movement can attract fish like perch or crappie. When I want to relax a bit, I set out a tip-up with a minnow and wait for the flag to fly.
Pro Tips for a Better Day
Want a better day on the ice? Keep your bait fresh. Scoop out your holes often so they don’t freeze. Check your lines from time to time. A fish finder is an excellent bonus if you want to improve your odds, especially in deeper water.
Where is the best Fishing Spot in Canada?
Canada is a dream come true for anglers, offering diverse spots for every fishing style. Fly fishers head to the Bow River in Alberta for trout. Lake of the Woods in Ontario provides many types of fish in one place.
For salmon, the Gander River in Newfoundland and Nanaimo in British Columbia stand out. If you’re into winter fishing, ice fishing in Canada is best at Dauphin Lake, Manitoba.
Big cities like Toronto and Québec City mix urban life with great fishing. Great Slave Lake and the lakes in northern Manitoba are far from towns. These wild places are great for catching big fish. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Canada has a fishing spot for you.
5 Best Ice Fishing Lakes in Canada
Canada is a dream destination for ice fishing lovers. These lakes offer excellent fishing and beautiful winter views. They also give you many ways to enjoy the outdoors. If it’s your first trip, these lakes are great choices. They’re also perfect if you want to try new spots. These five lakes rank among the best for ice fishing in Canada. Here it is:
- Lake Simcoe, Ontario
- Lake Nipissing, Ontario
- Gull Lake, Alberta
- Lake of the Woods, Ontario/Manitoba
- Great Slave Lake, Northwest Territories
1. Lake Simcoe, Ontario
People call Lake Simcoe the ice fishing capital of North America, and it deserves that name. Every winter, thousands of anglers set up colorful ice huts across its frozen surface. Perch, whitefish, and lake trout fill the lake. What I love most is how close it is to Toronto. You can drive out in the morning and be fishing by noon. It’s a nice place that welcomes both new and experienced people.
2. Lake Nipissing, Ontario
Lake Nipissing is a great place to fish and relax at the same time. It has walleye, perch, pike, and other kinds of fish. The heated huts and gear rental options are great here. I remember the first time I went there. It was a game-changer to be able to warm up inside a cozy hut after being outside in the cold. It’s a friendly place that welcomes both new and experienced players.
3. Gull Lake, Alberta
Gull Lake has shallow, clear water. It is perfect for fish like lake whitefish, walleye, and northern pike. The lake’s accessibility means you don’t need a long trek to start fishing. On weekends, locals fill the lake. If you want more quiet time, go on weekdays or early mornings. The steady fishing action makes it worth the visit any time.
4. Lake of the Woods, Ontario/Manitoba
Lake of the Woods is massive and famous for trophy-sized walleye and lake trout. It stretches across Ontario and Manitoba. The lake has many quiet bays that feel far from civilization. Outfitters here offer guided trips. They take you to the best fishing spots and teach local techniques. It’s an authentic wilderness experience combined with excellent fishing.
5. Great Slave Lake, Northwest Territories
Great Slave Lake is for people who want to have fun. It has some of the biggest fish in Canada. There are big lake trout, pike, and grayling there. This lake is big and far away, so it’s great if you want to be alone and have a hard time. Get ready for a rough trip. The reward is excellent fish and stunning northern views.
Ice Fishing Ontario Canada
Ontario is one of the best destinations for ice fishing in Canada. It offers easy access to frozen lakes. You’ll find many fish species. It works for all skill levels, from beginners to experts. If you want to experience some of the finest ice fishing in Canada, Ontario should be at the top of your list.
Best Ice Fishing Locations in Ontario
- People call Lake Simcoe the “Ice Fishing Capital of Canada.” It draws more ice anglers than any other place in North America. It’s famous for perch, whitefish, lake trout, and walleye. Outfitters rent heated huts and offer guided trips. This makes it great for families and newcomers.
- Lake Nipissing. This large northern lake is popular for walleye, perch, and pike. Resorts and guides provide ice fishing bungalows and gear rentals. This makes fishing easy and hassle-free.
- Lake of the Woods is a wilderness area on the border of Ontario and Manitoba. It is known for trophy walleye, lake trout, and stunning winter views. Ice fishing fans love it here.
- Ottawa River’s Petrie Island is popular in Eastern Ontario. It has many ice huts and fish like perch, walleye, crappie, and pike.
- Lac Des Mille Lacs and Lake Superior are northern lakes with a remote feel. They offer great chances to catch lake trout, walleye, and pike. You can also enjoy quiet time on the ice.
Fish You Can Catch
During the ice fishing season, Ontario’s lakes are home to many popular species, including:
- Lake trout
- Walleye
- Northern pike
- Yellow perch
- Whitefish
- Black crappie
- Brook trout
- Muskie (in some lakes)
How to Start Ice Fishing in Ontario
- Licensing: Most people over 18 need a fishing licence. During Family Day Weekend, residents can fish without one. Most outfitters help with getting the proper licence.
- Gear & Huts: You can rent heated ice huts and gear on most lakes. Rentals often include drilled holes, tackle, and expert advice.
- Guided Trips: Many outfitters offer all-in-one trips. They include transport, huts, gear, bait, and meals. This makes ice fishing in Canada easy, even for beginners.
- Regulations: Follow local fishing rules and catch limits. If you stay overnight on the ice, register your ice hut where required. Guides and official websites provide up-to-date info.
Ice Fishing Ontario Packages
Ontario has lots of ice fishing packages for every budget and skill level. Whether you want a simple hut rental or a guided trip, you’ll find something that fits. I still remember my first time ice fishing near Toronto. I was nervous, but the guides made it easy and fun.
Guided Packages
Lake Simcoe near Toronto is great for beginners. Outfitters provide heated huts, tackle, bait, and fresh lunches like perch tacos. Each guest gets an underwater camera to watch fish swim below. Up north, Haliburton Forest offers guided trips with snowmobile rides or hikes to the fishing spots.
I went there once, and the silence of the snowy forest made the whole trip magical. The guide taught me tricks to catch trout and pike. At Lake of the Woods and Five Lakes Lodge, you can pick guided or self-guided trips. Both offer a real Canadian ice fishing adventure.
Packages With Accommodation
Many resorts mix cozy cabins with fishing. Big Moose Camp near Lake Nipissing has lakefront cottages and wood-heated huts. After a day on the ice, relaxing in the warm cabin felt like a treat. Buttermilk Falls Resort offers affordable multi-day packages with bait and heated huts included.
Loon Lodge on Lake Temagami has fully equipped ice bungalows with heaters and kitchens. Spanish River Resort rents budget-friendly huts for day use. Simple gear and wood stoves keep things warm and easy.
Canada Ice Fishing Trips
Looking for a true winter adventure? Ice fishing in Canada offers just that. Whether you prefer cozy heated huts or remote wilderness lakes, there’s a trip for you.
On my first ice fishing trip near Lake Simcoe, I stayed in a warm hut and used an underwater camera to watch fish swim under the ice. The guides were nice and helped even beginners catch perch.
If you want to have a more adventurous time, go to places like Northern Ontario or Lake of the Woods. You’ll see beautiful views and catch big fish like walleye and lake trout there. I once rode a snowmobile deep into the woods to go ice fishing for a night. It was just me, the quiet, and the thrill of the catch.
Most ice fishing in Canada trips include heated huts, bait, gear, and sometimes meals. The season runs from December to March.
Luxury Ice Fishing Ontario
Want to fish in style? Luxury ice fishing in Ontario lets you do just that. Imagine fishing from a warm, cozy ice bungalow with heat, comfy beds, and a kitchen. At places like Loon Lodge on Lake Temagami, you get all that and more.
These packages come with guides who will take you to the best places to fish. They give you the best gear and cook your meals right on the ice. You can relax by a fire or take in the snowy views after a day of fishing for lake trout or walleye.
I went luxury ice fishing once, and it was like camping but with all the comforts of home. The hut was warm enough that the cold outside didn’t bother me. It’s perfect for families or friends who want adventure without the hassle.
How Much Is a Fishing License in Ontario for Non-Residents?
If you’re not from Ontario, you’ll need a fishing license to cast your line. First, get an Outdoors Card for about CAD 8.50. It lasts three years and serves as your ticket to purchasing a fishing license.
A one-year fishing license costs around CAD 83. For a longer time, it costs about CAD 250 and lasts for three years. Are you just here for a visit? A one-day license costs about CAD 24, and an eight-day license costs CAD 55.
It’s easy to get a license. You can get it at ServiceOntario centers, online, or at stores close to you. You don’t need a fishing license if you’re under 18 and with an adult who does.
Final Thoughts
Ice fishing in Canada is exciting because you can catch fish and be in the wild at the same time. You can keep it simple with just a rod and a bucket, or you can go all out and rent a fancy bungalow that comes with meals and gear. The best part? It’s for everyone, from people who have never been to Ontario before to experienced fishermen looking for trophy fish in the north. Don’t forget to check the ice, wear warm clothes, and get your license. And hey, don’t forget to enjoy the quiet beauty of winter. That first tug on the line might just hook you for life.
