Ganaraska River

The Ganaraska River runs through the middle of Port Hope (accessible from Highway 401). It is one of the best streams in Ontario for trout and salmon fishing. 

Ganaraska River Fishing Facts

Spring and Rainbow Trout

The Ganaraska River is famous for its mind-boggling spring steelhead run.

• The fourth Saturday in April, Ganaraska River fishing for steelhead trout opens.

• Anglers line the entire length of the river for their chance to catch one of these magnificent fish. 

• Since the fish run up river, heading north to one of the conservation areas like Sylvan Glen provides even more fishing spots.

Fall and Salmon Migration

The fall is a great time to see salmon begin their annual spawning run up the Ganaraska River. 

• View these resilient fish as they migrate past the Ganaraska River Fishway, better known as the fish ladder. 

• Watch as these majestic fish jump the ladder, constructed to help fish get past Corbett's Dam, to spawn.

• See silvery coho salmon and migratory brown trout in their vivid spawning colours.

Fly Fishing

The Ganaraska River is one of Ontario's best spots to swing flies to catch magnificent fish: 

• The upper part of the river runs through rich farmlands and the lower part through the town of Port Hope. 

• Fly anglers boast about the beauty of the migratory brown trout they catch in the river, and also the size of the steelhead and salmon.

• Fly fishing this waterway is an anglers dream.

Species of Fish

• smallmouth bass

• pike

• walleye

• perch

• catfish

• carp

• freshwater drum (sheephead) 

• rainbow trout (steelhead)

• brown trout

• Pacific, Coho and Atlantic salmon

Fish Species Found in Northumberland

When to Fish

Shore fishing the mouth of the Ganaraska is open all year from the C.N.R (Canadian National Railway) bridge south to Lake Ontario.

More Northumberland County Fishing Information

• Find the best time to fish with RiverWatcher.
• Check out this Fly Fisher episode as they catch massive salmon in the Ganaraska River.
• If you're planning to stay in Northumberland overnight, check out our business directory for places to stay.
• Connect with a Fishing Guide or Charter to get the local perspective.
• Fish responsibly and have fun.

Download the Printable and Accessible Map