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Northern Ontario Fishing Spots
Wilderness water — vast Shield lakes with minimal pressure and trophy fish.
Northern Ontario is where fishing dreams come true. From the accessible waters of Lake Nipissing to the remote fly-in lodges of the boreal forest, this region delivers world-class walleye, pike, bass, and lake trout in stunning natural settings. Pressure drops dramatically the further north you go.
Whether you're searching for lake nipissing walleye, french river fishing, lake temagami or northern ontario fishing, this guide brings together the best spots, seasonal timing, gear recommendations and local knowledge to plan your next Ontario fishing trip with confidence.
Top Fishing Spots
Lake Nipissing
Walleye, Pike, Smallmouth, Muskie
Fertile 873 sq km lake — 16–21" walleye are routine thanks to strict regulations.
Jump to Lake Nipissing on the mapFrench River
Pike, Walleye, Muskie, Smallmouth
Maze of channels and bays — quiet backbays produce trophy pike away from crowds.
Jump to French River on the mapLake Temagami
Lake Trout, Smallmouth, Pike
Deep, pristine lake with ancient pictographs and 40–80+ ft lakers by midsummer.
Jump to Lake Temagami on the mapBest Seasons
Spring
Ice-out lakers cruise shallows on Temagami; Nipissing pike pre-spawn.
Summer
Walleye trolling on Nipissing; smallmouth peak on the French River.
Fall
Trophy walleye return shallow; muskie season opens on French River.
Winter
Nipissing ice village is one of the largest hardwater fisheries in Ontario.
Gear Tips
- •1/4 oz chartreuse jigs with white twisters for Nipissing walleye
- •Large white/chartreuse spinnerbaits for French River pike
- •Live suckers and deep-diving cranks for trophy Temagami lakers
Travel & Access
- •North Bay and Sudbury are the gateway cities
- •Outpost camps and fly-in lodges open the most remote water
- •Cell service is limited — download offline maps before heading out
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boat to fish Northern Ontario?▾
Many spots benefit from a boat, but Nipissing and Temagami have public launches and shore access points.
What's the best time for Lake Nipissing walleye?▾
Late May–early July post-spawn, and September–October for trophy-class fish.
Plan your next trip to Northern Ontario
See live conditions, weekly fishing reports, and the spots producing right now.
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