Half Day Salmon And Trout Fishing Trip In Lake Ontario
Nothing beats the rush of feeling your rod bend with a hard-fighting salmon on the other end. Our 4-hour Lake Ontario fishing charter puts you right in the middle of some of the Great Lakes' best salmon and trout action. You'll head out from the dock with Captain Pierre and the Shinook Adventure Charters crew, who know these waters like the back of their hand. We're talking about targeting Atlantic Salmon, Coho, Chinook, Steelhead, and Brown Trout in one of North America's premier fishing destinations. Whether you've been fishing for decades or you're just getting your feet wet, this trip delivers the goods with top-quality gear and guides who live for putting clients on fish.
What to Expect on the Water
Lake Ontario is a whole different beast compared to inland fishing, and that's exactly why anglers keep coming back for more. You're looking at massive open water with depths that can hit 800 feet in some spots, creating the perfect environment for big, healthy fish populations. The moment you clear the harbor, you'll see why this lake has earned its reputation among serious fishermen. Our captains use fish finders and GPS to locate the thermoclines and structure where salmon and trout hang out, taking the guesswork out of your day. The boat handles beautifully even when the lake kicks up a bit, and with space for up to 6 anglers, there's plenty of room to fight fish without getting tangled up. You'll spend your time working productive zones where the baitfish congregate, and that's where the action happens. Don't worry about bringing tackle – we've got everything dialed in from rods and reels to the lures that have been producing fish all season.
Trolling Tactics & Gear Setup
Lake Ontario fishing is all about trolling, and we've got the technique down to a science. We'll be running downriggers to get your baits down to where the fish are holding, typically anywhere from 40 to 120 feet depending on the time of year and water temperature. The setup includes quality planer boards to spread lines out and cover more water, plus we rotate between spoons, plugs, and cut bait depending on what's working that day. Copper line setups are another weapon in our arsenal, especially when the fish are being finicky about boat pressure. You'll learn how to read the sonar, watch for temperature breaks, and understand why certain lures work better at different depths. The rods are medium-heavy action with line counters, so you know exactly how much line you've got out when a fish hits. When something grabs your bait, you'll feel it immediately – these fish don't mess around when they're hooked. Our crew handles all the net work and helps with fighting techniques if you need it, but honestly, half the fun is learning to work these powerful fish yourself.
Customer Stories
Our clients keep the stories coming, and it's always great to hear how their day on the water went. Here's what Mark had to say about his recent trip: "An unforgettable experience! Captain Pierre and Nicolas Gevry and the team at Shinook Adventure Charters made our fishing trip a dream come true. Their expertise and passion for the sea were evident from the moment we stepped aboard. Not only did we catch some impressive fish, but we also forged lasting memories. Can't wait to book our next adventure with them!" - Mark
Species You'll Want to Hook
Atlantic Salmon are the crown jewel of Lake Ontario fishing, and for good reason. These fish are absolute rockets when hooked, known for their aerial displays and long, powerful runs that'll test your drag system. They typically range from 8 to 15 pounds, with some bruisers pushing 20-plus. Spring and fall are prime time for Atlantics, when they're feeding aggressively in the upper water column. What makes them special is their fighting style – they'll jump, dive, and strip line like nothing else in these waters. Plus, they're beautiful fish with that classic salmon profile that looks great in photos.
Coho Salmon bring their own brand of excitement to Lake Ontario fishing. These silver bullets are known for going airborne the second they feel the hook, often jumping multiple times during the fight. They average 6 to 12 pounds and are most active during the summer months when they're chasing alewives near the surface. Cohos are aggressive feeders, making them a favorite target for anglers who like consistent action. Their bright silver sides and dark backs make them one of the most photogenic catches you'll land.
Steelhead Trout are legendary for their fighting ability, and Lake Ontario's population is world-class. These fish are essentially rainbow trout that have adapted to lake life, growing larger and stronger than their river cousins. Expect fish in the 8 to 15-pound range that fight like they're twice that size. Steelhead are available year-round but really turn on during spring and fall migrations. They're known for long, blistering runs and have a habit of fighting all the way to the net. Many anglers consider them pound-for-pound the strongest fish in the lake.
Chinook Salmon are the kings of Lake Ontario, literally – they're also called King Salmon for their massive size. These are the fish that can make your reel scream, with mature fish ranging from 15 to 30 pounds or more. Chinooks are most active during late summer and early fall when they're staging for their spawning runs. What sets them apart is their sheer power and endurance – they'll take you into your backing and keep pulling. Landing a big Chinook is a team effort, and there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of boating one of these monsters.
Brown Trout are the crafty veterans of Lake Ontario, known for being selective about what they'll bite and putting up a smart fight when hooked. They typically run 5 to 12 pounds, though trophy
5.0(1 Reviews)
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Ontario
Four
