<Back to Fishing
A man ice fishes on a lake in the sunrise near a red fishing hut.

Ice Fishing

Ice Fishing the Seven

With an early freeze and a late spring thaw, our region boasts thousands of icy lakes to explore. Just a few hours from major cities like Toronto and Ottawa it's the perfect place to make unforgettable ice-fishing memories.

This winter, discover our world-class fishing destination that offers a range of angling experiences. Whether on foot or by snowmobile, dozens of easily accessible ice-fishing villages are located throughout the region—each with a variety of welcoming all-inclusive lodges and camps with availability throughout the winter. Ask about ice fishing packages that include transportation, shelter, gear, bait, meals and more! All that’s left for you to do is fish and relax.

The waterways here could keep you busy for a lifetime, never touching the same lake twice—as long as you’re willing to wet a line. Have we got you on the hook?

A person wearing a black jacket is holding a fish towards the camera.

What Species Are You After?

Our borders start on the rocky shorelines of Lake Huron. Follow the coast to the tributaries of the Great Lakes, or head north into the thousands of rivers and lakes in Northeastern Ontario. Lakes here range from mesotrophic to oligotrophic. The mesotrophic lakes offer lots of fun opportunities to fish natural structures for warm water species such as bass, walleye, muskie, and pike. And our oligotrophic lakes have deep, crystal-clear waters perfect for all types of trout.

Some lakes have the best of both worlds and while you’re here you’ll have the opportunity to catch both natural and stocked lake and brook trout. Lucky anglers can even land salmon in our freshwater rivers and streams. 

A kid in a bright green and black patterned jacket, and red mits leans over an ice fishing hole with their pole.

New to Fishing? Try the Experience Fishing Program

If this is your first season fishing, you may be hesitant to plan a fishing trip somewhere new—luckily Northeastern Ontario is a wonderful place to learn and lodges and camps across the region are ready to make the transition as easy as possible. You won’t regret making the trip when your skills—and catches—advance quickly with our Experience Fishing program!

Experience Fishing helps match new anglers with lodges that offer gear and guidance for beginners. If you’re interested in learning about a specific species or you're interested in lures, rods, and other equipment to help target some of our species, Experience Fishing lodges offer packages to suit all levels.

Visit Experience Fishing

Before heading out, every good angler should acquaint themselves with Ontario's fishing rules and regulations. It's important to purchase the proper fishing license and respect the seasons and catch limits for each species. 

Ontario's fishing rules and regulations
  • Lake Nipissing
  • Northern Pike
  • Winter Walleye
  • Ice fishing in the Northeast

Loading...

A couple ice fishes next to their snowshoes near Big Moose Camp.

Ice Fishing Accommodations

Our region offers accommodations for all budgets on your ice-fishing adventure. Stay in classic ice huts or luxurious bungalows, perfect for friends, couples, or families. Bungalows sleep 4-8 with heating, cooking facilities, and washrooms. For a lodge experience, enjoy motel-style stays with expert-guided day trips to inland lakes. Whether on the ice or back at the lodge, comfort is guaranteed.

Someone is using an auger to drill a hole for ice fishing near some huts.

Packages & Planning: What’s Included In An Ice-Fishing Package?

Ice fishing packages include meals, lodging, and transportation to and from fishing spots. Think of it as an all-inclusive resort, but instead of a sunburn and a mediocre buffet, you'll enjoy freshly caught pike by the fire. Everything is taken care of—gear, bait, drilled holes, and heated shelters. Local experts can guide you, whether you’re after walleye, pike, or perch. Choose from housekeeping cabins or full-service American plans, ensuring a stress-free, unforgettable experience on the ice.

Explore Businesses & Operators