Fishing

Fishing is a way of slowing down and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of protected areas. It can teach us about aquatic environments and bring us closer to friends and family. Whatever your motivation, enjoy your time fishing on the St. Lawrence River and other lakes and rivers in the Thousand Islands Region. 

Fishing is permitted off park docks and out of boats with a valid sport or conservation fishing licence. Visitors under 18 or over 65 years of age do not require a licence.

Family Fishing Events make it easy to try out fishing for the first time. Twice a year – once in the summer and once in the winter - Ontario residents can try fishing licence-free on any body of water where fishing is allowed. Check out the Ontario Family Fishing Event website for more information.

If fishing off a dock, expect rock bass, pumpkinseed, yellow perch, and largemouth bass to be most common.

Popular sportfish among boaters are pike, walleye, yellow perch, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass.

Learn to fish

Spencer’s Riverfront Cottages offer guided fishing charters. Check out their websites for more information.

Fish forever

Fishing is regulated for sustainability by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.  Ensure that you have a valid Ontario Fishing Permit, are fishing for species that are in season and are following the applicable regulations.  For more information please contact the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources online at or 1-800-667-1940.

Please note that the St. Lawrence River is considered Fisheries Management Zone 20, while other lakes and rivers in the region are considered Fisheries Management Zone 18.

Copies of the Guide to Eating Ontario Sport Fish published by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources can be found online or at 1-800-820-2716.

For more information on natural hazards, weather conditions, and planning a safe activity, please see our Visitor Safety page.