Lake Erie Fishing 101
Cast into one of North America's premier freshwater fisheries with this beginner-friendly guide to fishing Lake Erie.
Cast a line into Niagara's South Coast fishing scene with this guide to Lake Erie's top catches, hot spots, and local know-how.
Curious to experience for yourself why Niagara's South Coast has earned the reputation as one of North America's best destinations for freshwater fishing? Whether you're relatively new to fishing or an experienced angler pulling up with your own boat, casting a line into the fishing scene is an amazing activity for those looking for an authentic Niagara's South Coast experience. Here are some key things to keep in mind when you make for the lake on your next trip.
What's The Catch?
As the warmest of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie is a hotspot for warm-water fish such as Walleye (also known as Pickerel) and Smallmouth Bass. The eastern basin of Lake Erie, including the waters off Niagara, supports one of the largest naturally reproducing Walleye populations in the world.
Where Are The Hot Spots?
Many fish species migrate along the north shore of Lake Erie, often concentrating near Port Colborne, Fort Erie, and Crystal Beach. For anglers with their own boats, public launches at Crystal Beach and Port Colborne's Sugarloaf Marina offer easy access to Lake Erie. Boaters can follow the wakes of in-the-know locals to the waters off Point Abino, which is known for great Walleye, Bass, and Perch fishing. The deeper waters near Windmill Point, which is close to Crystal Beach, make it a popular destination for Walleye fishers.
For those who prefer to fish on land, catching Walleye can require a little more strategy! From July to September, it's wise to wait until after the sun has set to fish for Walleye from the shorelines around Port Colborne's Nickel Beach. Later in the season, shoreline fishing in Fort Erie near the Peace Bridge can yield Walleye, Rainbow Trout, and Lake Trout.
Can I Bring The Kids?
Families searching for some fishing fun may prefer to drop their lines inland, where those with a little less patience can still reel in some really rewarding results. Mud Lake Conservation Area and the Wainfleet Wetlands are both great options. Guests at Windmill Point Park and Campground can also fish in the on-site quarry, which is home to a variety of fish, including Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, and Rainbow Trout.
Who Can Give Me A Hand?
Port Colborne's Erie Trackers Outfitters offers anglers so much more than bait and gear. Stop by the shop to chat with local experts. Those who want a day out on the water but don't have their own boat can connect with a local charter company, like Fishin' Fanatics Charters, for a family-friendly, fully guided Lake Erie fishing experience.
Do I Need A Licence?
The Province of Ontario requires most people to possess a valid fishing license and keep it with them at all times while fishing. Those under 18 and 65 and older do not need a licence to fish, but do need to carry government-issued identification that includes their name and date of birth at all times while fishing.
Discover even more ideas for your next Niagara's South Coast adventure on our Stories, Sun and Sand, Water Adventures, Heritage and Culture, and Trails and Cycling pages. Then round out your trip by using the Accommodations and Food & Drink filters on our Destination Map to find tasty dining options and nearby places to stay.
Niagara's South Coast is situated on treaty land. This land is steeped in the rich history of the First Nations such as the Hatiwendaronk, the Haudenosaunee, and the Anishinaabe, including the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. There are many First Nations, Métis and Inuit from across Turtle Island that live and work here today. Niagara's South Coast stands with all Indigenous peoples, past and present, in promoting the wise stewardship of the lands on which we live.