Falls Reserve Conservation Area has a reputation for excellent year-round fishing. Rainbow trout and salmon migrate up the river in spring and fall. Smallmouth bass provide great fishing during the summer months.
The Conservation Area has a pond that is stocked each spring with rainbow trout and also contains a sustainable largemouth bass population. The pond has been the site of extensive naturalization efforts over the past several years. Trees, aquatic plants, and shrubs have been planted in and around the pond. A brood area for bass has been created along with nesting sites for birds and turtles.
A permit is required to fish in the pond and can be purchased at the gatehouse. Children under 12 years of age practicing in catch-and-release do not require a permit. A daily limit of two trout per permit is enforced. Largemouth bass caught in the pond are catch-and-release only. The use of barb-less hooks is required. If a fish caught in the pond is badly injured, please do not return it to the pond. It should be claimed as your catch.
Fishing Licenses
You must purchase a Resident Fishing License unless you are under 18 years of age or 65 years of age or older. People who are under 18 years or are 65 or older do not need a license but have all the rights and responsibilities of people with a license. Visitors from outside the province require a Non Resident Fishing License.
Fishing in Ontario
The Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary provides information on licenses, open/closed seasons and catch limits. This document is available to view at the Ministry of Natural Resources website (www.mnr.gov.on.ca).
OFAH Tackle Share Program
No fishing equipment? No problem! Falls Reserve Conservation Area offers access to angling equipment for visitors thanks to the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters Tackle Share program. It’s easy! Simply sign out a rod and reel and an assortment of tackle from the park Gatehouse. Once you’re finished, return the equipment so that others can enjoy the same opportunity.
Family Fishing Week
An Ontario license-free fishing event is scheduled for June 29 to July 7, 2019. This is a province-wide opportunity for Canadian residents to fish Ontario waters without the otherwise mandatory fishing version Outdoors Card. During all other time periods, Canadian residents between the ages of 18 and 64 years must purchase an Outdoors Card and Fishing License to legally fish in Ontario. Visit www.ontariofamilyfishing.com for more information.
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