Fishing and Hunting

Fishing Rice Lake

Rice Lake, part of the Trent-Severn Waterway, is one of Ontario’s largest and most productive inland fisheries. Shallow and spanning 37 km long by 4.8 km wide, it’s a popular destination for tourism, recreation, and sport fishing. Learn more about Rice Lake.

Ice Fishing

Rice Lake ice fishing is a popular winter past time enjoyed by all ages check it out at Northumberland Tourism Fishing.

Hunting

The Township of Hamilton is surrounded by prime hunting land and waterways visit Northumberland Tourism Hunting today.

What to Know Before You Go

How to be a Responsible Angler

Be considerate, stay safe, and have fun

Be polite to your fishing neighbors and the environment by following these rules:

Respect other fishers beside you and don't crowd fishing areas
Don't litter
Don't leave hooks unattended
Don't release live bait
Be careful when fishing near flowing water

Choose the right location

Don't trespass when choosing a place to fish. All fishing sites are on public land, and it is your responsibility to make sure you are not on private property.

Get licensed

With the exception of Family Fishing Weeks, you need a license to fish in Ontario. Visit the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry's website for information on how and where to get a license.

Know what you can and cannot eat

You can't always eat what you catch. Check the guide for Eating Ontario Fish or call 1-800-820-2716 to order a copy.

Know the rules and regulations

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry identifies fishing rules, size limits and size restrictions. Visit their website for more information.

Know the Hunting Regulations

The Ontario Hunting Regulations Summary is a guide that summarizes the rules and regulations for hunting in Ontario. It provides information about hunting licenses and fees, as well as up-to-date regulations and seasons for each game species.

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1997 (FWCA), is the main provincial law regulating hunting and trapping. It is enforced by conservation officers which includes police officers.

Family Fishing Events

Four times a year, Canadian residents can fish in Ontario for free. This means you do not need to buy a fishing license if you want to fish during:

Family Fishing Weekend (February 15 – 17, 2025)
Mother’s Day Weekend (May 10 & 11, 2025)
Father’s Day Weekend (June 14 & 15, 2025)
Family Fishing Week (June 28 – July 6, 2025)

Anglers, Start Your Augers!

Rice Lake, Ontario is a top destination for winter anglers, known for its plentiful jumbo perch, crappie, and bluegill. Whether you're a seasoned fisher or trying it for the first time, ice fishing is a fantastic way to cast away the winter blues and enjoy the fresh air and peaceful beauty of a frozen lake.

With local outfitters offering heated ice huts, gear rentals, and expert tips, it’s easy to make a day, or a weekend, of it. Bring your family, gather your friends, or just enjoy a solo escape on the ice.

Contact Us

8285 Majestic Hills Drive
P.O. Box 1060 Cobourg, On K9A 4W5

Phone: 905-342-2810
Fax: 905-342-2818
Email Us

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