A fishing charter is the most efficient way to get on productive water, especially if you are visiting an unfamiliar area. Charter captains spend their seasons learning where the fish are holding, what they are feeding on, and how conditions are changing week to week. That local knowledge is difficult to replicate on your own, particularly on a body of water as large and variable as Lake Ontario.
Types of Charters
Most charter operations on Lake Ontario offer two basic trip formats:
- Half-day trips (4-5 hours) — typically a morning or afternoon on the water, suitable for families or groups looking for a solid fishing experience without a full day commitment. Nearshore trips targeting trout and salmon are common.
- Full-day trips (8-10 hours) — a complete day on the water, allowing the captain to run further offshore, fish multiple locations, and target deeper-holding species. Full days are the best option for serious anglers targeting trophy Chinook salmon.
Charter boats on Lake Ontario are typically 25 to 35 foot sport fishing vessels equipped with downriggers, rod holders, sonar, and GPS. Most charters provide all tackle, bait, and equipment. You generally need to bring your own Ontario fishing licence, food, and appropriate clothing.
Seasonal Overview
The charter season on Lake Ontario runs roughly from April through October, with peak activity in the summer months. Different species are targeted at different times:
- April – May: Brown trout nearshore, early salmon, steelhead in tributaries
- June – August: Chinook salmon offshore, coho, lake trout in deep water
- September – October: Salmon staging near river mouths, fall steelhead runs, brown trout returning inshore
Check our fishing reports for current conditions before booking your trip.
Charter boats work the waters of Lake Ontario from spring through fall.
Charter Listings
North Shore Sport Fishing
Port Hope & Cobourg area • Lake Ontario
Chinook Salmon Brown Trout Steelhead
Full-day and half-day trips from Port Hope harbour targeting Lake Ontario salmon and trout. Experienced captain with 15 years on the north shore. All tackle provided. Runs May through October.
Bay of Quinte Guide Service
Belleville & Quinte area • Bay of Quinte / Lake Ontario
Walleye Bass Pike
Year-round guide service on the Bay of Quinte, one of the top walleye fisheries in Ontario. Spring and fall walleye, summer bass, and winter ice fishing. Half-day and full-day options.
Eastern Ontario River Adventures
Ottawa Valley & Eastern Ontario
Walleye Smallmouth Bass Trout
Guided fishing trips on the Ottawa River and surrounding lakes. Walleye and bass through the summer, with fall trips on Ottawa Valley rivers for trout and smallmouth. Boat and shore-based options available.
Booking Tips
Charter trips on Lake Ontario book up quickly during peak season, particularly on weekends. If you have specific dates in mind, booking several weeks in advance is recommended. Most captains require a deposit and have cancellation policies related to weather, which is a significant factor on the open lake.
Groups of four to six anglers are typical for lake charters. Larger groups can often be accommodated across multiple boats. If you are new to charter fishing, let the captain know your experience level when booking. A good guide will adjust the trip to match your group's abilities and expectations.