Thunder Bay is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of excellent fishing spots just a short drive from the Valhalla Hotel & Conference Centre. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to cast your first line, the region’s rivers and lakes provide ample opportunities to reel in a great catch.
Here are the top places to go fishing in and around Thunder Bay, each offering unique experiences and the chance to catch a variety of fish species.
Note: Be sure to read up on the 2024 Fishing Regulations for each area, and don’t forget to purchase a valid fishing license!
Fishing the Current River in Thunder Bay
Located just 15 minutes from downtown Thunder Bay, Current River offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially for brook trout and rainbow trout. The river’s clear waters and serene surroundings make it a favourite spot for both fly fishing and traditional angling. For trout, using lightweight spinning gear with small spinners or live bait like worms is effective. Fly fishers can use dry flies or nymphs to target trout in the river’s deeper pools and runs.
Try netting yourself a beautiful brook trout!
Distance from Valhalla Hotel: Approximately 20-30 minutes by car, depending on where along the river you’re looking to fish.
Thunder Bay’s Boulevard Lake Fishing
Situated about 10 minutes from the Valhalla Hotel and fed by the Current River, Boulevard Lake is a popular fishing destination for locals and visitors alike. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and also holds smallmouth bass and northern pike. For trout, try using light tackle with spinners, spoons, or bait such as worms or corn. When targeting bass and pike, medium-weight rods with soft plastic baits, crankbaits, or spinnerbaits work well. Boulevard Lake’s convenient location and variety of species make it an excellent choice for a quick fishing trip.
Nice little smallmouth bass.
Distance from Valhalla Hotel: Approximately 10-15 minutes by car.
Fishing in the Kaministiquia River
The Kaministiquia River, known locally as the “Kam River,” is about a 20-minute drive from the hotel. This river is renowned for its diverse fish population, including walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. For walleye, jigging with minnows or using crankbaits near submerged structures is effective. Northern pike can be caught using larger spoons or spinnerbaits, while smallmouth bass respond well to soft plastics and topwater lures. The Kam River’s extensive shoreline and accessible fishing spots make it a great location for anglers of all skill levels.
Kakabeka Falls is another amazing reason to visit the Kaministiquia River!
Distance from Valhalla Hotel: Approximately 15-20 minutes by car, depending on where along the river you’re looking to fish.
Best Fishing on the McIntyre River
Located roughly 15 minutes from the Valhalla Hotel, McIntyre River is a hidden urban gem for anglers seeking excellent fishing. This river is home to brook trout, tonnes of rainbow trout, and occasionally, brown trout. Light spinning gear with small spinners, spoons, or live bait works well for these species. Fly anglers can have success with dry flies, streamers, and nymphs. The peaceful, easy-to-access location and plentiful trout make McIntyre River a top choice for a relaxing fishing experience.
Try your luck for one of the many rainbow trout that frequent the area!
Distance from Valhalla Hotel: Approximately 15 minutes by car.
Lake Superior Fishing in Thunder Bay
Fishing in Lake Superior from Thunder Bay, Ontario, offers an unparalleled experience for anglers of all skill levels. As the largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior is home to a diverse range of fish species, including lake trout, salmon, walleye, and northern pike. The clear, incredibly deep waters of the lake provide ideal conditions for both shore and boat fishing. Thunder Bay’s strategic location along the northwestern shores of Lake Superior means easy access to prime fishing spots, whether you’re casting from the shoreline or heading out on a guided fishing charter. The breathtaking scenery, coupled with the thrill of reeling in a trophy catch, makes fishing in Lake Superior a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area.
Photo credit: @lakesuperiorpp on Instagram
Distance from Valhalla Hotel: Depends on where you go! Anywhere from a 20-minute to hours-long drive is possible, as the entire Eastern side of Thunder Bay borders this mighty body of water.
Shebandowan Lake Fishing near Thunder Bay
About an hour’s drive from Thunder Bay, the Shebandowan Lake area offers some of the best fishing in the area, particularly for walleye and northern pike. The lake’s clear waters and rocky shorelines create ideal habitats for these species. For walleye, use jigging rigs with minnows or leeches, or troll with crankbaits along drop-offs. Northern pike can be targeted using large spoons, spinnerbaits, or live bait rigs. Shebandowan Lake’s expansive waters and scenic beauty make it a worthwhile trip for serious anglers.
Think you can wrangle a walleye this size?!
Distance from Valhalla Hotel: Approximately 1 hour & 20 minutes by car.
Mission Marsh Conservation Area Fishing Spots
Just a 20-minute drive from the hotel, the Mission Island Marsh Conservation Area is a fantastic spot for shore fishing – check out Little Trout Bay for salmon, pickerel, whitefish, rainbow trout and lake trout! The area as a whole is known for its populations of northern pike – use medium to heavy spinning gear with large spoons, spinners, or live bait rigs. The conservation area also offers beautiful views and abundant wildlife, making it an enjoyable destination for a day of fishing and relaxation.
Photo credit: Ontario Conservation Areas
Distance from Valhalla Hotel: Approximately 20 minutes by car.
Fish for Free in Ontario, Canada
Four times a year, Canadian residents and their families are permitted to fish for free in designated areas. The dates are:
- Family Fishing Weekend (February 17–19, 2024)
- Mother’s Day Weekend (May 11–12, 2024)
- Father’s Day Weekend (June 15–16, 2024)
- Family Fishing Week (June 29–July 7, 2024)
Photo credit: @fishwildlifeon on Instagram
Thunder Bay offers a variety of excellent fishing spots within easy reach of the Valhalla Hotel & Conference Centre. Whether you prefer river fishing for trout or lake fishing for bass and pike, you’ll find the perfect location to cast your line and enjoy the great outdoors.
With diverse species and stunning scenery, these top fishing destinations promise an unforgettable angling experience close to Thunder Bay!