Principle Fish of Algonquin Park

Speckled (Brook) Trout - Specks are among the most sought after game fish in North America. Extremely sensitive to pollution, the range of speckled trout has narrowed considerably in recent years. Algonquin Park is indeed fortunate to have strong naturally reproducing brood stocks of these beautiful fish in its interior lakes. Found in both streams and lakes, speckled trout are widespread throughout the park. Trout season opens on the last Saturday in April and closes on September 30, with the best fishing in May or June. They can be taken on fly or spinning tackle with lures like small spoons, spinners and flies. Expert fly fishermen enjoy success in streams all season long.

Lake Trout - The "laker" is possibly the most widespread fish in Algonquin Park. Many people think that the only way to catch them is to troll deep with specialized tackle but during May and June lakers can be taken at or near the surface with spinning or even fly equipment. The best method is trolling spoon lures along rocky shorelines or over shoals. As the water warms, the laker goes deep, specialized tackle is required and only 10% of a lake is likely to be productive. The season is the same as for brook trout.

Smallmouth Bass - The Smallmouth was not one of the original piscine inhabitants of Algonquin Park. Introduced at the turn of the century, "smallies" are found in more easily accessible lakes than trout, often with road access. Bass season opens on the last Saturday in June and continues through November. The Smallmouth is a surface or near-surface feeder and can be caught on light tackle throughout the season. One of the most exciting methods of fishing for bass is with a fly rod and popping bug.

Walleye (Yellow Pickerel) - Walleye are also a relatively recent addition to the Algonquin fishery. They are found only in the northern part of the park, in lakes near our Brent base, on Cedar Lake, and downstream from there in the Petawawa River system, in lakes like Radiant. The season opens on the third Saturday in May and continues through November, with the best fishing in late May and early June. Yellowish jigs and lures seem to be the most effective.