Ready for a mid-week escape on the big waters of Lake Ontario? Our weekday fishing charters are perfect for anglers looking to squeeze in some top-notch fishing without burning a weekend. We're talking about hooking into hard-fighting salmon and trout just a stone's throw from Toronto. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered with all the gear and know-how you'll need.
Our trips are all about getting you on the fish without any fuss. We keep things simple – just hop aboard, and we'll handle the rest. You'll be fishing with quality rods, reels, and tackle that's rigged and ready to go. The captain adjusts departure times based on when the fish are biting, so you're always hitting the water at prime time. With a max of 5 people on board, you'll have plenty of elbow room and personal attention from the crew. Just remember, we're old school when it comes to payment – cash or PayPal only when you show up at the dock.
On Lake Ontario, trolling is the name of the game for salmon and trout. We'll be setting up a spread of lines behind the boat, using downriggers to get our lures down where the big ones are lurking. You might hear us talking about "dipsy divers" or "copper wire" – these are just different ways to get our bait down deep. We'll be using a mix of spoons, cut bait, and maybe even some flashy dodgers to entice those fish. Don't worry if you're new to this style of fishing; we'll show you the ropes and have you reeling in no time.
Lake Ontario's been on fire lately, with some real bruiser salmon and trophy trout coming over the rails. Chinooks (we call 'em "kings") have been topping the 30-pound mark, and the coho action's been hot too. Rainbow trout, or "steelhead" as we like to call 'em, have been putting on aerial shows that'll make your heart race. And let's not forget about those big, butter-bellied brown trout – they've been gobbling up our offerings like there's no tomorrow.
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead): These high-flying acrobats are a favorite among Lake Ontario anglers. They typically range from 5 to 15 pounds but can grow much larger. Steelhead are known for their spectacular jumps and blistering runs. They're most active in the cooler months, but we can find them year-round. The fight of a steelhead is something you've got to experience to believe – it's like hooking into a aquatic rocket.
Coho Salmon: Often called "silvers," these are the speed demons of the salmon world. Weighing in at 8 to 12 pounds on average, what they lack in size they make up for in feistiness. Cohos are known for their quick, darting runs and tendency to throw hooks with head shakes. They're typically most abundant in late summer and early fall when they start their spawning run. The meat on these fish is prized for its rich, red color and delicate flavor.
Chinook Salmon (King Salmon): The heavyweight champs of Lake Ontario, chinooks can tip the scales at over 30 pounds. These brutes are known for their power and stamina – hooking into one feels like you've snagged a submarine. The best time for kings is usually late summer through fall, but we target them all season long. When a big king decides to run, you'd better hold on tight and pray your drag is set right!
Brown Trout: Lake Ontario's brown trout are some of the biggest you'll find anywhere. These crafty predators often lurk close to shore, especially in the cooler months. Browns are known for their hard fighting ability and their tendency to make several strong runs before coming to the net. They average 5 to 12 pounds but 20-pounders aren't unheard of. Catching a big brown is like battling a bulldozer – they're all muscle and don't give up easily.
Lake Trout: The true natives of Lake Ontario, "lakers" are the deepwater specialists. These fish can live for decades and grow to massive sizes – 20-pound fish are common, and 30-pounders pop up now and then. We usually target them in the cooler months when they come up shallower, but they're around all year if you know where to look. Jigging for lake trout in deep water is a unique experience – it's like playing tug-of-war with the bottom of the lake.
Folks come back to Lake Ontario time and time again because, simply put, the fishing here is world-class. Where else can you hook into a 30-pound salmon on your lunch break? The variety of species means there's always something biting, no matter the season. Plus, there's something special about being out on such a massive body of water – it feels like you're on the ocean, but you're never too far from shore. Our weekday trips are perfect for locals looking to scratch that fishing itch without sacrificing their weekend plans.
Look, we're not gonna give you some hard sell here. The fishing speaks for itself. If you're itching to tangle with some serious freshwater giants and want to do it without the weekend crowds, our Lake Ontario weekday charters are your ticket. We keep things casual, fun, and focused on putting you on fish. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer or just want to experience the rush of a big salmon peeling line off your reel, we've got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait too long to lock in your date. Give us a shout, and let's get you out on the water for some mid-week mayhem on Lake Ontario. Trust me, landing a monster king or a acrobatic steelhead beats sitting in traffic or staring at a computer screen any day of the week!
Brown trout in Lake Ontario typically run 3-10 pounds, with trophy fish over 20 possible. They're often found near shore structures or river mouths, especially in spring and fall. Browns are known for being sneaky and hard-fighting - hooking one is just half the battle! Anglers love their challenge and delicious, pale pink meat. For best results, try trolling or casting with minnow-imitating lures near dawn or dusk. Browns are light-sensitive, so cloudy days can be productive too. A local secret: after a good rain, hit the mudlines formed where creeks enter the lake. Browns often prowl these areas for disoriented baitfish. Keep your drag set light, as these trout are known for sudden, powerful runs. Landing a big brown trout is a true accomplishment for any angler.
Chinook salmon, or "kings," are the heavyweights of Lake Ontario, often topping 20 pounds with some monsters pushing 40. They prefer cooler, deeper water, so downriggers are your best bet. Late summer and fall are prime times as they bulk up for spawning. Anglers prize kings for their powerful runs and impressive size - be ready for a workout! Their rich, fatty meat is top-notch for smoking or grilling. To land one, try trolling with large spoons or cut bait like herring. Vary your speed and depth, and don't be afraid to go deep - kings often hang out below the thermocline. A pro tip: use scent on your lures, as kings have an incredible sense of smell. When you hook up, be patient and let the fish tire itself out. Landing a big king is an experience you won't soon forget.
Coho salmon in Lake Ontario typically range from 5-10 pounds, though 15-pounders aren't unheard of. Look for them in open water, often suspended in the water column. Late summer and early fall are prime times as they start staging for their spawning run. Cohos are known for their hard strikes and aerial acrobatics - hang on tight when you hook one! Their rich, orange flesh makes for great eating too. For best results, try trolling with flashers and flies, varying your speed and depth until you find the active fish. Keep an eye on your electronics for bait balls, as cohos are often feeding nearby. A local trick: when you hook one, keep your boat moving, as others are likely schooled up in the area. Pound for pound, cohos give you one of the best fights on the lake.
Lake trout are the native giants of Lake Ontario, often weighing 10-20 pounds with some topping 30. They're typically found in deep, cold water, especially near underwater structures. Summer and early fall are great times to target them. Lakers are prized for their hard-fighting nature and rich, oily flesh that's perfect for smoking. To catch one, try jigging or trolling deep with large spoons or cut bait. Watch your fish finder - lakers often suspend off the bottom. A local tip: troll S-curves instead of straight lines to trigger more strikes. When you hook up, be ready for a long, steady fight. Lake trout don't make fast runs, but their power and endurance will test your arms. It's a deep-water battle that's uniquely satisfying when you finally bring one to the net.
Rainbow trout are a popular target in Lake Ontario, usually running 2-8 pounds but sometimes topping 15. You'll find them in cooler, oxygen-rich water, often near drop-offs or structures. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they cruise shallower. Anglers love their acrobatic fight and tasty pink flesh. To boost your odds, try slow-trolling with downriggers using small spoons or flies in the early morning. These trout are wary, so light line and stealthy presentations work best. Keep an eye out for jumping baitfish - rainbows are often feeding nearby. Don't forget to check regulations, as size and catch limits can vary. Whether you're after a trophy or just want to tangle with a feisty fish, rainbow trout deliver an exciting experience on Lake Ontario.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercruiser
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 130