SPORT FISHING ON LAKE ONTARIO
A Diverse and Exceptional Fishery
Chinook Salmon
The King of Lake Ontario
Chinook salmon is one of the most sought-after species in Lake Ontario thanks to its impressive size, strength, and the spectacular fights it offers sport anglers.
Characteristics
- Long, robust body
- Blue or green back with silver sides
- Spotted tail
- Black mouth and gums
Average Size
- 30 to 100 cm (12 to 39 in)
- 7 to 15 lb on average
- Ontario record: 46.4 lb
Coho Salmon
Fast, Aggressive, and Exciting
Coho salmon is renowned for its energy and impressive jumps during the fight. A perfect species for anglers seeking action-packed fishing.
Characteristics
- Slim, silver body
- Blue or green back
- Spots on the upper lobe of the tail
- Pale gray gums
Average Size
- 30 to 75 cm (12 to 30 in)
- 5 to 10 lb on average
- Ontario record: 28.6 lb
Atlantic Salmon
A Rare and Prestigious Species
Atlantic salmon is admired for its elegance and rarity. Landing one is a memorable achievement for many Lake Ontario anglers.
Characteristics
- White mouth and gums
- A few large black spots on the gill cover
- Lightly spotted or unspotted tail
- Dark fins
Average Size
- 25 to 70 cm (10 to 28 in)
- Fast and technical fights
- Highly prized sport fish
Rainbow Trout
Fast, Hard-Fighting, and Spectacular
Also known as steelhead in the Great Lakes, rainbow trout is famous for its explosive fights and impressive leaps out of the water.
Characteristics
- Silver body with small black spots
- Distinct pink lateral stripe
- Heavily spotted tail
- Usually white mouth and gums
Average Size
- 20 to 60 cm (8 to 24 in)
- 1 to 15 lb on average
- Ontario record: 40.7 lb
Lake Trout
The Giant of the Depths
Lake trout, also known as lake char (touladi), prefers the deep, cold waters of Lake Ontario. It is highly regarded for its strength and impressive size.
Characteristics
- Dark green, gray, or brown back
- Pale worm-like markings
- Deeply forked tail
- White belly
Average Size
- 30 to 80 cm (12 to 31 in)
- 2 to 10 lb on average
- Ontario record: 63.1 lb
Brown Trout
A Powerful and Highly Sought-After Catch
Brown trout is prized for its wariness, strength, and beauty. Lake Ontario specimens can reach impressive sizes.
Characteristics
- Brown or blue-green back
- Silver sides with dark spots
- White belly
- Distinctive orange adipose fin
Average Size
- 20 to 60 cm (8 to 24 in)
- 1 to 9.5 lb on average
- Ontario record: 34.4 lb