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Fishing

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Trout in fish netFlyfisher in the Grand River with the old Caledonia Mill in background

The Grand River and its tributaries offer world-class recreational fishing. Whether you're fly fishing for trout, trolling for walleye or dropping a line in search of catfish, you can find what you want in the rivers, streams and reservoirs of the Grand.

Best of all, great fishing is just minutes away for more than six million people in southern Ontario who can be on the river in under an hour. 

The Grand River watershed includes swift coldwater trout streams, serene pastoral stretches filled with smallmouth, pike and walleye, and big river fishing for anything from rainbow trout to crappies. In fact, over half of the fish species in Canada are in the Grand River watershed. Visit our Fisheries Management pages to learn about our programs including the Grand River Fisheries Management Plan, the Exceptional Waters reach and the tailwaters fishery area. 

Fishing information 

Where to fish, access points and what fish species you can catch
  • Visit our Fishing Grand River Conservation Areas page for location-specific information. The information is summarized by conservation area. It includes addresses, access descriptions, fish species, and more.
    • Grand River Conservation Areas offer special events for all types of anglers, such as fishing derbies and a learn-to-fish event for kids. As well, other groups and agencies host fishing-related events in our conservation areas. Check our Events Calendar for all upcoming events.
  • Visit our Fishing Rivers and Streams page for information on fishing the rivers and streams of the Grand River watershed. Find information on access point locations and fish species.
  • Discover where you can go ice fishing.
Fishing safety

Flows can change rapidly in the rivers and streams of the Grand River watershed. Anglers need to be aware of the changes because, as flows increase, the waterways can become dangerous.

In particular, pay attention to flow changes downstream of Shand Dam (Upper Grand River), Conestogo Dam (Conestogo River) and Guelph Dam (Speed River).

Make safety a priority. Read more fishing safety information on our Water safety and Safety around dams webpages.
Fishing licences and regulations
All Ontario residents between 18 and 65 require a fishing licence. Go to the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry website for details on how and where to buy licences.

You should also be familiar with provincial fishing regulations, which control seasons, catch limits and other matters. See the Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary issued by the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry. The Grand River watershed is within Fisheries Management Zone 16.

 

Family Fishing events

Twice a year, Canadian residents can fish in Ontario without buying a licence:

  • Family Fishing Weekend in February
  • Family Fishing Week in July.

For more information check with the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry.
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