Ontario Walleye Season
The Ontario walleye fishing season is eagerly anticipated every spring. Ontario’s slot sizes for walleye are determined annually for each fishing zone and catch-and-keep limits for pickerel (walleye) can vary widely.
Walleye Fishing in Ontario – Quick Facts
The Ontario fishing season for walleye (pickerel) normally runs from Jan. 1 to the middle of March and then opens again around the May long weekend and continues to the end of the year.
Fishing Zones
Ontario has 20 fishing zones. Walleye anglers should check the limit regulations carefully as the catch-and-keep rules will vary from one zone to the next and from year-to-year.
Zone Exceptions
Each zone also has clearly defined exceptions for certain bodies of water within the zone. These pertain to limits, slot sizes, barbless hooks, and the use of organic bait. They also cover gear restrictions.
Using lead sinkers and lead jig heads, for example, is illegal in National Parks.
Licences
A fishing licence is required in Ontario and consists of two parts: an outdoors card and a licence tag.
The outdoor card is not required for a one-day licence.
Ontario has different fishing licences for Ontario residents, Canadian residents who live outside of Ontario, and non-Canadian residents.
The licences are also categorized as sport or conservation. The differences determine the number of fish the angler is allowed to catch and possess each day.
Canadian residents under the age of 18 or over 65 do not have to purchase a licence and are subject to the sport licence rules.
All non-Canadian residents must purchase an Ontario fishing licence.
Ontario Fishing Regulations
Ontario has rules and regulations for each fish species. The Ontario season and limit rules are defined for all fish including favourites such as walleye, bass, pike, perch, muskie, crappies, trout, and salmon.
A good walleye book to get ready for the new season.
Go to the Beginner Fishing Equipment page.
Go to the Spring Walleye Fishing Tips page.
Go to the Walleye Fishing Techniques page.
