Canoe Fishing
Experience the tranquility of nature, where it's just you and the fish.
At Canoe Canada, our commitment to unparalleled service and exclusive access to some of North America’s most pristine wilderness has made us a top choice. Yet, it’s the extraordinary fishing adventures that bring our visitors back time and again.
Discover the untouched lakes of Quetico and White Otter Wilderness areas, where the serenity is only interrupted by the occasional cast. These secluded waters, visited only a handful of times each year, promise a unique angling experience. Whether you’re in pursuit of smallmouth, walleye, pike, or trout, these crystal-clear lakes offer the ultimate challenge. Our guests have regaled us with tales of 10-pound walleye, 16-pound trout, 23-pound pike, and 5-pound smallmouth bass. Thanks to our catch, photograph, and release policy, many of these legendary fish continue to thrive.
If you’re seeking guidance to locate these impressive catches, don’t hesitate to ask. Our knowledgeable staff boasts over a century of combined experience navigating these waters. Whether you prefer a guided tour to the prime spots or a set of detailed maps, we’re here to ensure your fishing adventure is nothing short of exceptional.
Fishing in Quetico Park
- When fishing in Quetico Park, you may only use artificial lures and barbless hooks.
- For more information please visit the Quetico100 site.
- And the Quetico Provincial Park site.
Fishing Quota
- Walleye : you may have in your possession 2 walleye, of which only one may be longer than 18 inches.
- Northern Pike : you may have in your possession 2 pike, less than 29.5 inches in length.
- Small Mouth Bass : Until June 30, you may keep 2 bass less than 14 inches in length. Starting July 1, you may keep 2 bass of any length.
- Lake Trout : you may keep 1 trout of any size or length.
- These quotas are subject to change. For accurate data please read the government pamphlet.
Equipment
- Spin casting, bait casting, ultra lite and fly rods all work well on canoe trips. We suggest a 6-foot medium action fast taper spinning rod and the best spinning reel that you can afford. A good quality pack rod is also an option.
- While on your canoe trip, a rod and reel may be stored behind the stern seat. Or, you can put the reel in your packsack and tie your rod under the thwarts along the gunwale using mini bungee cords or short ties. NEVER keep hooks or lures attached! Your line can be secured to the spool with a rubber band or tied to a snap swivel.
- Keep your tackle in a small flat plastic box or a nylon soft box case. A nail clipper, filet knife, small rope stringer and needle-nose pliers or a Leatherman-type multi tool are all handy to have.
- Download Jim's Fishing Tips here.
Cleaning & Preparing Fish
- When cleaning and preparing fish to eat, we recommend you stop along shore away from any campsite and clean your catch there.
- You can filet fish on an overturned canoe or a paddle blade.
- Put the meat in a plastic bag and throw fish remains out in deep water or in the bush away from any campsite.
- Download more campfire cooking tips here.
Fishing Licenses
You can purchase your licenses upon arrival at our base. Or, if you prefer, you can get them online. Obtaining a license is a two-step process:
- First, you’ll need to buy or renew an Outdoor Card.
- Then, apply for your license.
Because we promote CPR (Catch, Photograph, Release) fishing, we recommend guests get the Conservation Fishing License, which allows you to catch all the fish you want and keep a few to eat. Remember that children under 18 may fish without a license under the direct supervision of an adult license holder, but may NOT keep a possession limit unless they purchase a license.