Fishing
in Collingwood
Charter fishing out of Collingwood Harbour on Georgian Bay for salmon, lake trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout. Fish range from 1 to 30 lbs, April through November. Ice fishing in winter for perch, whitefish, and lake trout.
Foggy; low visibility; waterproof gear; slow pace
The Prep
Georgian Bay's southern shore supports a strong salmonid fishery. Charter boats depart from Collingwood Harbour for half-day and full-day trips targeting Chinook and Coho salmon, lake trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout. Franklin Fishing Charters, Collingwood Charters, and Five Star Fish & Cruise all operate from the harbour. In winter, ice fishing on Georgian Bay targets perch, whitefish, and lake trout. The Nottawasaga River, flowing through nearby Wasaga Beach, draws a fall salmon run managed by the NVCA.
"Check AER conditions before you head out. Air quality and weather can shift quickly — especially during wildfire season and summer smog events."
Must Haves
- Valid Ontario Outdoors Card + sport fishing licence (available online at ontario.ca)
- Warm layers - Georgian Bay keeps temperatures cool on the water even in summer
- Polarized sunglasses
Pro Tips
- Charter boats provide all tackle - book through operators at Collingwood Harbour
- The Nottawasaga River salmon run peaks in September-October
- Ice fishing in winter - check conditions before venturing onto the ice
The Locations
Collingwood Harbour (Charter Fishing)
The main launch point for Georgian Bay charter fishing. Multiple operators offer 3 to 8-hour trips for salmon, lake trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout ranging from 1 to 30 lbs. All gear provided on charter boats. Access from Collingwood Harbour. Peak season May through October for trolling.
Nottawasaga River Mouth (Salmon Run)
The Nottawasaga River flows into Georgian Bay at Wasaga Beach, 15 minutes east of Collingwood. Chinook and Coho salmon run upstream from September through October. Shore casting from designated NVCA access points. Check NVCA regulations - the river is managed for salmon conservation.
Local Etiquette
- 1
Ontario Outdoors Card required
valid sport fishing licence must be carried - available at ontario.ca
- 2
Fisheries Management Zone 14 regulations apply
check species-specific catch limits and seasons
- 3
Nottawasaga River salmon fishing
specific NVCA access points and regulations - check nvca.on.ca
- 4
Ice fishing
verify ice conditions before venturing onto Georgian Bay - ice thickness varies
The Après Strategy
Barbecue restaurant in downtown Collingwood with craft beer on tap.
Operator Network
Local operators offering fishing experiences in the Collingwood area. Verified businesses rooted in the region.
Grand River Outfitters
The region's premier fly fishing shop and guide service.