The Bay of Quinte is home to some of the best walleye fishing in the world, and the best part about it is that you can drop your line year round.
Zigzagging from Carrying Place in the west to the eastern tip of Prince Edward County in the east, the Bay is made up of hundreds of small inlets, tucked away honey holes and tributaries that are perfect for snagging walleye, as well as largemouth and smallmouth bass, salmon, pike and panfish. Although the first recorded people to fish these waters were likely Quebec missionaries in the mid-1600s, the bay had sustained the Iroquois people long before that.
While you’re here, check out some of this history and culture — just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean the region hibernates. Warm-up and fill up in some of the best restaurants in the province, and when it’s time to get some rest for the next day’s early start, there are accommodation options to suit almost every need and budget.
Hotspots
Four areas along the Bay of Quinte you’re sure to get some bites:
Trenton Bay
Fish: largemouth bass, pike, panfish, walleye
The City of Trenton sits where the Trent River meets the Bay of Quinte, and it’s just offshore here, in Trenton Bay, and further west near the Murray Canal where you’ll find some of the best walleye fishing in the region.
Belleville Bay
Fish: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, pike, panfish, walleye
Further east, where the Moira meets the Bay of Quinte is Belleville Bay, another great location for walleye, as well as largemouth and perch. The islands and inlets around the bay make for some excellent fishing spots.
Telegraph Narrows
Fish: largemouth, smallmouth, pike, panfish, walleye
Continuing east, past the Bay Bridge in Belleville to Deseronto, is this long, narrow area known by locals for its large populations of smallmouth and walleye.
Hay Bay
Fish: largemouth, pike, panfish, walleye
About ten kilometres south of Deseronto is Hay Bay. The eastern end is shallow and weedy, which makes it great for largemouth fishing, but in the western end it gets deeper, making it perfect for walleye trollers.
Guides
If you’re new to the area or new to ice fishing altogether, no worries. Here are some of the many guides in the area, that will set you up with equipment, transportation and tips on how to catch that ten-pounder.
Merland Park
“Merland Park Cottages on the Bay is open year-round. Whether you are looking to spend some quiet time relaxing or up for exploring the outdoors, Merland Park has what you are looking for. Spring through autumn, the fishing is widely acclaimed!”
Website: merlandpark.com
Fish Finder Charters
Your guide will be Captain Dave Chatterton, a professional fisherman and guide for over thirty years who’s been recommended by the North American Fisherman Club, and been featured on the Rod & Reel Streamside and The Ultimate Fishing television shows.
Website: fishfindercharters.com
Muddy Waters Outfitters
Organized by Daniel Stone, Muddy Waters Outfitters provides wooden and clam ice shack rentals (with propane tank), flasher unit rentals, and lunch with a full day of guiding.
Website: fishingbayofquinte.com/news/muddy-waters-outfitters/
Licensing Information
Make sure you review Ontario’s fishing regulations before embarking on your ice fishing adventure. Click on the following links for more specific information.
