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Family fishing • overlooked favourites
Other Ontario Fish Species
Panfish, carp, catfish and other species can turn a quiet day into a great one.
More species. More ways to fish.
The Ontario water
More species. More ways to fish.
Most anglers have a favourite fish, but overlooked species can provide just as much fun. Carp are powerful line-pullers that test tackle and patience. Panfish such as yellow perch, sunfish, bluegill and crappie provide steady action and can often be caught from shore.
Panfish are a fine way to introduce children to fishing. A small hook, float and simple bait make it easy to see the bite. Adults enjoy them too, mainly when crappie and perch gather in good numbers.
Ontario is also home to whitefish, sturgeon, gar, channel catfish and many other fish. Each calls for different water, tackle and methods, giving curious anglers many reasons to try something new.
FIELD NOTE
Small fish can make a big day
Keep tackle simple for family fishing and pick a safe dock or shoreline with room to cast. Everyone near deep or fast water should wear a properly fitted life jacket. Check identification and fishing rules before keeping any catch because limits vary by species and zone.
Watch Ontario fishing
Two videos. One next-trip idea.
Dave Mercer: Heavy-Cover Bass
Techniques for fishing weeds and thick largemouth cover.
Quick answers
Ontario fishing FAQ
What Ontario fish are good for children?
Yellow perch, sunfish, bluegill and crappie often provide steady action with simple tackle.
Does Ontario have carp and catfish?
Yes. Carp and channel catfish are found in several southern Ontario rivers, bays and connected waters.
Keep planning
Related Ontario fishing pages
Ontario Largemouth BassFish Ontario largemouth bass in weed beds, lily pads, timber and docks with topwater lures, jigs, spinnerbaits and soft plastics.
Ontario Smallmouth BassTarget hard-fighting Ontario smallmouth bass on rocky points, reefs and boulder shorelines with jigs, tubes, crankbaits and topwaters.
Ontario Walleye FishingPlan Ontario walleye fishing with tips for jigs, live bait, crankbaits, weed lines, reefs, evening bites and ice fishing.