Winter camping and ice fishing are perhaps one of the most common combinations when it comes to spending the night outdoors during the winter season.
Despite the low temperatures and sometimes difficult conditions, winter camping is popular among both experienced tourists and anglers, as well as beginners.
Today, in camping supply stores you can easily find the necessary equipment, the best ice fishing tents suitable for winter temperatures, warm clothes, and other useful gear that will ensure your comfort and safety in any weather.
The fishing season does not end when the lakes freeze over. Many of Ontario's parks offer world-class ice fishing.
Safety should always be a top priority when ice fishing since the ice does not freeze at the same thickness. As you know, the ice near the shore of the lake is thicker, and the further from it, it becomes thinner. Also, it is worth remembering that light blue ice is stronger than white ice. The further you go, the more often you should check the ice thickness with an auger.
Always dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Take with you a charged mobile phone, and a power bank. Remember to tell someone when and where you are going fishing. Always follow the rules and regulations of the waters. And do not forget about your fishing license!
Here are some of the best ice fishing spots to visit in winter in Ontario:
Quetico Provincial Park is located four hours east of Kenora and three hours west of Nipigon. This park is popular among fishermen due to its winter beauty, high cliffs, and waterfalls, as well as pine and spruce forests, which together with picturesque rivers and lakes create stunning natural diversity, making fishing and relaxation in this place the best way to get away from routine and gain new strength while trying to catch your trophy!
When the ice freezes, the park can offer excellent ice fishing opportunities. Lake trout are abundant here and can be found in Quetico reservoirs.
If you want to extend your stay for a few days and set up camp, you will have the opportunity! At the park, visitors can choose either to stay in a primitive spot or pick one of the available cabins if they prefer to stay warm and cozy. Plus, these cabins are bookable all year round, so if you enjoy fishing in any season, Quetico Provincial Park is the perfect spot to pack up your gear and go fishing!
Located 45 minutes from Kingston, Frontenac Provincial Park is an ideal location for ice fishing enthusiasts.
With the arrival of the winter season, northern pike, various types of panfish and brook trout can be caught here. There are three lakes available to park visitors that are stocked with brook trout.
The combination of natural beauty and the tranquility of ice fishing on a remote lake makes a visit to Frontenac Provincial Park the perfect weekend to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities. So, if you do not mind the cold and winter fishing is your lifestyle, then Frontenac, Ontario is a great destination that's definitely worth a visit!
Windy Lake Provincial Park is a beautiful wonderland for skiing, snowshoeing, and of course, ice fishing!
While staying at Windy Lake, you can catch lake trout and lake whitefish. What's more, you do not even need to bring any extra gear to try ice fishing! Here, visitors can go to the park office to rent the necessary equipment for winter fishing.
If you want to spend a few days doing your favorite hobby, the park also has four yurts and two cabins that can be booked on the lake shore. The good news is that overnight accommodations at Windy Lake are open throughout the winter, so you can visit the park whenever it suits you.
Windy Lake Park is a 45-minute drive from Sudbury.
Another great spot for ice fishing in Ontario is Silent Lake Provincial Park. In addition, it has a convenient location. The park is two and a half hours from Toronto and three hours from Ottawa.
So if you are looking for a place to catch some good lake trout, head to Silent Lake - you will not regret it!
Everything you may need for ice fishing is here. Beautiful scenery, lots of fish, and cozy yurts where you can warm up after a day of fishing. There are also cross-country skis, snowshoes, and trails to explore.
Most importantly, be sure to check Ontario's fishing regulations before heading out to ensure your planned fishing trip goes off without any hassles!
Sibbald Point Provincial Park is just over an hour's drive from Toronto. Lake Simcoe is known throughout the province for its excellent ice fishing opportunities.
Choosing this lake at Sibbald Point State Park will provide you with a prime spot for catching giant yellow perch and whitefish. For avid fishermen, park staff clears the main road and parking lot during the winter months so it is easy to get in and out of, which coupled with its proximity to Toronto makes Sibbald Point Provincial Park an ideal option if you want to plan an ice fishing trip but do not have enough time to be able to visit more remote locations.
