Q&A

Are there steelhead trout in Lake Ontario?

Are there steelhead trout in Lake Ontario?

Two distinct strains of migratory rainbow trout called “steelhead” are stocked into Lake Ontario. These are Washington (a winter run strain) and Skamania (a summer run strain); both originally came from the State of Washington. All rainbow trout strains are native to Pacific coast watersheds of North America and Asia.

Where can I fish for steelhead in Ontario?

When fishing for Ontario steelhead on some of the bigger rivers like the Niagara, Saugeen, or Maitland river, some anglers might even use baitcasting reels for either float fishing or casting lures. Baitcasting reels tend to be best when you are float fishing if there is a lot of flow.

What is the biggest fish caught in Lake Ontario?

The official record for the largest salmon caught in Lake Ontario is 47.13 pounds.

Do steelhead hit dry flies?

Even the splash of a streamer can spook the fish. A dry fly fished alone or with a lightly weighted dropper nymph is the least obtrusive presentation you can make to steelhead in these conditions. Steelhead in low water are often suspended in the water, sometimes just inches beneath the surface.

What’s the best way to catch steelhead in Ontario?

MORE . . . . Centerpin fishing, also known as Float Fishing can often be the best method for catching steelhead and salmon. MORE . . . .

How big are steelhead in Lake Ontario tributaries?

Leaders used by spin fishermen average 2-3 feet in length and 6 pound test. Float fishing has gained popularity on the tributaries and is a very effective method of catching steelhead. This technique allows an angler to make long snag free drifts with the bait remaining in the strike zone.

Where are the best places to fly fish in Ontario?

Ontario fly fishing could mean fishing a southern Ontario trout river or fly fishing at a northern lake for bass, pike, and musky. Ontario fly fishing can also mean fishing for huge salmon and big steelhead on a local river. There are many fly fishing opportunities in Ontario.

When do steelhead trout start to spawn in Ontario?

Although steelhead will start running up rivers as early as even late August on some rivers, about 95% of steelhead won’t actually spawn until late winter or early spring which in Ontario means late March and April. So why do they run in September, October, and November if they don’t actually spawn until the spring?