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If you live in Simcoe County or Muskoka, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy some of Ontario’s best fishing. Between Lake Simcoe, Georgian Bay, and the countless smaller lakes and rivers, you’ll find fresh, flavorful fish waiting to be caught and cooked.
Whether you’re brand new to fishing or just want some simple recipes to try with your local catch, this guide will walk you through the basics.
Know what’s in season
Fishing in Simcoe County and Muskoka changes with the seasons. Here’s a month-by-month look at what’s typically available. (Always double-check Ontario fishing regulations for current open seasons and limits.)
- January – February: Ice fishing season shines on Lake Simcoe. Yellow perch are the top catch, with lake trout and whitefish for those venturing deeper.
- March – April: As ice starts to break up, lake trout remain active in colder waters. Some rivers also see early runs of rainbow trout.
- May: Walleye season opens, making it a favorite time for anglers across Georgian Bay and Muskoka lakes. Pike are also plentiful in shallow bays.
- June: Smallmouth and largemouth bass seasons kick off. Expect great action in warmer Muskoka lakes and along rocky shorelines.
- July – August: Prime summer fishing. Bass are abundant, walleye are biting at dusk and dawn, and panfish like sunfish and perch are easy for kids to catch.
- September – October: Cooler weather brings lake trout closer to the surface again. Muskoka lakes also deliver excellent fall bass fishing.
- November: A quieter month, but late-season walleye can still be found. Some anglers also target northern pike before freeze-up.
- December: As ice forms, the first safe ice brings another round of perch and pike action on smaller lakes, setting the stage for full ice fishing season.
Where to cast your line
In Simcoe County and Muskoka, you’re never far from a great fishing spot, whether you’re out on a boat or casting from your dock.
Some of the best local waters include:
- Lake Simcoe: The region’s fishing hub. Hotspots like Kemperfelt Bay and Cook’s Bay are famous for perch, lake trout, and whitefish.
- Georgian Bay: Offers legendary walleye and bass fishing. Areas around Midland, Honey Harbour, and Penetanguishene are great starting points.
- Muskoka Lakes (Rosseau, Muskoka, Joseph): Cottage country classics where anglers reel in bass, pike, and trout. A dock on these lakes can double as your fishing platform.
- Lake Couchiching: A smaller, family-friendly lake with perch, bass, and pike, just north of Orillia.co
- Severn River: A winding waterway that connects Georgian Bay to Lake Couchiching, offering pike, bass, and the occasional muskie.
- Gloucester Pool: A hidden gem near Port Severn, home to bass, pike, and walleye.
- Black River (Washago): A local favorite for smallmouth bass and pike in a quieter setting.
- Smaller Muskoka lakes: Spots like Skeleton Lake, Fairy Lake (Huntsville), and Lake of Bays are known for trout and bass fishing.
Tip: Early morning or late evening is often the best time to cast your line.
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Gear you actually need
Fishing doesn’t have to be complicated (or expensive). Start with:
- A basic spinning rod and reel combo
- A small tackle box with hooks, sinkers, bobbers, and a few lures
- Live bait like worms or minnows for beginners
- A fishing license (required in Ontario unless you qualify for an exemption)
Once you get comfortable, you can upgrade your gear or try more specialized setups.
Cleaning and preparing your catch
The first time you fillet a fish might feel a little daunting, but it quickly becomes second nature with practice.
Start by rinsing your catch and laying it flat on a clean cutting board.
With a sharp fillet knife, make your first cut just behind the gills and then follow the backbone in one smooth motion. Gently work the knife under the flesh, separating the fillet from the rib cage.
If you prefer boneless, skinless pieces, simply slide the blade under the skin to lift it away. And don’t be too quick to discard the bones, they can be simmered into a rich fish stock that adds depth to soups and chowders.
Simple ways to cook local fish
Fresh fish doesn’t need much fussing. A few easy cooking methods bring out the natural flavor:
Pan-fried perch: Lightly coat in flour, season with salt and pepper, and fry in butter until golden.
Grilled walleye: Brush with olive oil, lemon, and herbs, then cook on a hot grill for a smoky flavor.
Baked lake trout: Place in foil with garlic, dill, and a splash of white wine, then bake until flaky.
Fish tacos with bass: Pan-sear strips of bass and serve in tortillas with slaw and lime crema.
Pair with local produce from farmers’ markets for a true Simcoe-Muskoka feast.
Fishing (and cooking) as a local lifestyle
In Simcoe County and Muskoka, fishing isn’t just about the catch. It’s a way to slow down, enjoy nature, and connect with local traditions. Cooking your own fresh fish takes that experience one step further, turning a quiet day on the water into a meal worth remembering.
Whether you’re frying up perch at the cottage or grilling walleye on the deck, fishing locally means you get the freshest food possible … caught with your own hands.
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