--- title: "Winter’s Coolest Hot Spots: Ice Fishing along the St. Lawrence and Beyond" date: 2025-12-29T11:13:00-05:00 author: Laurie Weir canonical_url: "https://www.southeasternontario.ca/articles/winters-coolest-hot-spots-ice-fishing-along-the-st-lawrence-and-beyond/" section: Articles --- ![](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/images/transforms/_maxWidth2400px/22-SDG-COUNTIES-OUTDOOR-ACTIVITIES-HOOPLE-CREEK13.jpg) # Winter’s Coolest Hot Spots: Ice Fishing along the St. Lawrence and Beyond Laurie Weir Ice fishing is one of winter’s great Canadian traditions, and South Eastern Ontario is packed with places to drop a line. The St. Lawrence River anchors the region from Quinte to Cornwall, with sheltered bays, frozen channels and neighbouring inland lakes offering everything from perch and pike to trophy walleye. If you’re planning a family outing or it’s your first time on the ice, these destinations deliver a mix of scenery, accessibility and cold-weather comfort. Here are some of the region’s coolest hot spots this winter, plus local cafés and restaurants where you can warm up when the day is done. Be safe - watch the [ice conditions ](https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/ice-forecasts-observations/latest-conditions.html)regularly. **The St. Lawrence River – the Region’s Winter Fishing Highway** The St. Lawrence runs through the entire region, offering dozens of safe winter fishing pockets once the ice sets in. Hot spots include Belleville and Quinte’s bays, Gananoque’s shoreline, and the wide, steady waters around Cornwall. Learn more about the river’s eastern gateway through[ St. Lawrence Parks](https://www.stlawrenceparks.com/to-do/get-outdoors/long-sault-parkway/?utm_source=chatgpt.com), or explore the western end near Quinte in[ South Eastern Ontario](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/destinations/bay-of-quinte/?utm_source=chatgpt.com). *Ice Check: The* [*Raisin Region Conservation Authority*](https://rrca.on.ca/) *provides winter safety advisories for Cornwall, Long Sault, Ingleside and nearby St. Lawrence communities.* ![](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/images/transforms/_maxWidth1600px/22-SDG-COUNTIES-OUTDOOR-ACTIVITIES-HOOPLE-CREEK21.jpg?transformId=2683&site=default)[**Bay of Quinte**](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/destinations/bay-of-quinte/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) **– Trophy Walleye Territory** If you’re at this end of the waterfront, the Bay of Quinte is legendary for winter walleye. Anglers travel here for deep water, long freeze periods and the chance to lock onto a monster catch. Popular access points include Belleville, Big Bay, Trenton and Deseronto. Here are some[ fishing charter options](https://fishingbooker.com/destinations/location/ca/ON/greater-napanee) for your Bay of Quinte trip. If you’re looking for a place to stay where fishing access is easy, check out [Merland Park](https://merlandpark.com/area-attractions/) in Picton. This is a long-time favourite for anglers, with easy access to Picton Bay and the Bay of Quinte’s legendary walleye. The resort has simple, comfortable cottages, a private launch and boat rentals, making it an easy base for winter and shoulder-season fishing trips. **Where to warm up:** - [The Brake Room](https://www.facebook.com/TheBrakeRoom.Belleville/) in Belleville is a downtown café known for good coffee, light meals and a relaxed, community-minded vibe. - [Tropical Blends](https://www.tropicalblends.ca/) in Belleville has smooth espresso, comforting hot drinks and a mellow ambiance that hits just right. - [Beats and Sweets Vinyl Café](https://www.beatsandsweetscafe.com/) in Trenton offers homemade treats, freshly brewed coffee and a cozy feel paired with vinyl records spun for music lovers. *Ice Check:* [*Cataraqui Conservation*](https://cataraquiconservation.ca/) *shares winter safety updates for the Kingston–Quinte corridor, including areas west of Gananoque.* [**Hay Bay & Napanee**](https://naturallyla.ca/explore/on-the-water/fishing/) **– Quiet Bays for Perch and Pike** Anglers often head to Hay Bay as it is a sheltered area ideal for beginners and families. Expect steady perch and the occasional pike, along with wide, easy access from nearby Napanee. **Where to warm up:** - [Ellena’s Café](https://www.ellenascafe.com/): After a frosty morning on the ice, stop into this downtown Napanee café for a hot bowl of soup and a fresh pastry. - [Loaf N’ Ale](https://www.theloafandale.com/) in Napanee has warm pub food and a comfortable atmosphere to enjoy a break in the day. - [Coffee Cravings](https://www.facebook.com/caffn8u) in downtown Napanee is a comfortable café where you can grab a hot espresso and a fresh pastry. It’s a quiet place to warm up and relax. ***Ice Check:*** [*Cataraqui Conservation*](https://cataraquiconservation.ca/) *also covers the Napanee and Loyalist area with seasonal safety notices for inland lakes and bays.* [**SD&G Counties**](https://whereontariobegan.ca/fishing/) **- where the sunsets burn into evening bliss** Winter fishing around SDG is a bit of a hidden gem, with plenty of spots to set up on the ice. The St. Lawrence is famous for trophy pike and walleye, and anglers reel them in right through the cold months. [Hoople Creek](https://www.facebook.com/groups/hooplecreekicefishers/) is a well-known local spot for ice fishing on the St. Lawrence once conditions are safe. Anglers set up huts along the frozen creek to target perch, pike and walleye through the winter. If you’re looking for ice hut rentals and live bait options, [Relic Outfitters](https://www.facebook.com/relicoutfitters/) has got options. René tells us they have day-use huts and sleeper units available. Ice fishing is their busiest time of the year. Check out the link above for contact information. **Where to warm up:** - [Jimmy’s Restaurant](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063829620417) in Ingleside is just what you need for a home-cooked breakfast that hits the spot every time. - [Water View Restaurant](https://waterviewrestaurant.ca/index-2.html) in Long Sault is a solid stop for a hot meal; big portions, diner classics and a warm place to chill. ***Ice Check:** The* [*Raisin Region Conservation Authority*](https://rrca.on.ca/) *provides winter safety advisories across Cornwall, South Stormont, South Glengarry and the Raisin River watershed.* ![](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/images/transforms/_maxWidth1600px/23-CORNWALL-OUTDOOR-ACTIVITIES-WINTER-SPORT3.jpg?transformId=2686&site=default)[**Cornwall**](https://cornwalltourism.com/tips-tricks-ice-fishing-for-a-successful-adventure/) **– Steady Action All Winter** [Ice fishing in Cornwall](https://cornwalltourism.com/fishing/): One great place to start is[ Lamoureux Park](https://www.cornwall.ca/en/play-here/neighbourhood-parks.aspx?_mid_=21039)**,** Cornwall's downtown waterfront park. The park offers several good spots to cast out, and some kid-friendly ones to boot, including the point and the bay just east of the public boat launch at the west end. **Where to warm up:** - [Village Diner](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063565269217) in Cornwall is a must-stop for classic comfort meals, quick service and a friendly small-town feel. - [Tilly’s Eatery](https://tillys---home-of-once-upon-a-coffee-shop.square.site/menu) in Cornwall offers hearty soups, artisanal sandwiches, and a welcoming spot to sit. ***Ice Check:** The* [*Raisin Region Conservation Authority*](https://rrca.on.ca/) *posts seasonal water and ice-safety updates for Cornwall and the surrounding St. Lawrence shoreline.* [**Gananoque & the 1000 Islands**](https://www.1000islandstourism.com/experiences/fishing/) **– Inland Lakes with Big Potential** When the freeze sets in, the smaller inland lakes north of Gananoque offer serene winter scenery and the chance at trout, pike and perch. How about an incredible[ ice-fishing helicopter expedition](https://www.1000islandstourism.com/a-one-of-a-kind-ice-fishing-experience-with-1000-islands-helicopter-tours/)? **Where to warm up:** - [Musky Jake’s Tap and Grill](https://www.muskiejake.com/) serves hearty pub classics with fast service and a laid-back atmosphere. - [Pistachio Café](https://www.pistachiocafe.ca/) enjoy a light meal or breakfast with a latte. You can also feast on homemade gelato or a freshly baked pastry. [**South Frontenac**](https://www.southfrontenac.net/) **– Quiet Lakes and Trout Water** These smaller lakes north of Kingston offer peaceful fishing and good trout potential. Look for ice conditions on Dog Lake, Loughborough Lake, and Sydenham Lake. **Where to warm up:** - [The Creekside Bar and Grill](https://www.facebook.com/p/Creekside-Bar-Grill-100063763893764/) in Battersea offers classic roadhouse-style meals with friendly service and a local feel. - [Muddy Waters Restaurant](https://www.facebook.com/muddywatersverona/) in Verona offers great home-cooked food with warm and friendly service. ***Ice Check:*** [*Cataraqui Conservation Authority* ](https://cataraquiconservation.ca/)*offers winter safety information for Gananoque, the 1000 Islands region and nearby inland lakes.* ![](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/images/transforms/_maxWidth1600px/22-SDG-COUNTIES-OUTDOOR-ACTIVITIES-HOOPLE-CREEK6.jpg?transformId=2689&site=default)[**Rideau Lakes**](https://www.rideaulakes.ca/experience/things-to-do/fishing) **– Classic Cottage-Country Ice** The Rideau corridor offers beautiful winter views and quiet fishing spots. Upper Rideau Lake near Westport, Newboro Lake and Lower Beverley Lake all offer safe pockets when conditions allow. The[ Rideau Canal](https://www.rideaufriends.com/fishing.html) also has some high-quality spots at the lock stations along the way. **Where to warm up:** - [The Cove Inn](https://coveinn.com/) in Westport has delicious food, music and a view of the Big Rideau. Spend the night if you’re looking to spend more than one day on the water. - [Recess Cafe](https://www.facebook.com/recesscaferideaulakes/) in Portland is housed in an old school building, and serves up fresh coffee, hearty breakfasts, sandwiches and home-baked treats, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, in a laid-back setting. ***Ice Check:*** [*Cataraqui Conservation Authority* ](https://cataraquiconservation.ca/)*provides winter advisories for lakes and waterways throughout South Frontenac.* **Safety First** - Wait for at least 10 to 12 centimetres of clear, solid ice. - Dress in layers and protect exposed skin. - Bring ice picks and a rope. - [Check local ice reports regularly.](https://weather.gc.ca/marine/forecast_e.html?mapID=11&siteID=07200) - Carry a[ valid fishing licence](https://www.ontario.ca/document/ontario-fishing-regulations-summary/recreational-fishing-licences-and-fees) unless visiting on a licence-free weekend. **How to check ice thickness** If you’re heading out and can’t find an updated local report, you can check ice thickness yourself. Lower an extended tape measure into a drilled hole to get an accurate reading. General safety guidelines: - 4 inches of clear, solid ice is safe for walking and fishing. - 5 to 7 inches is recommended for snowmobiles or ATVs. - 8 to 12 inches is needed for a small vehicle. Conditions can change fast, especially on rivers, so always test as you go and avoid areas with flowing water, pressure cracks or slush. South Eastern Ontario is full of places to explore once the lakes freeze. From friendly towns to wide-open river bays, the region offers plenty of room to settle in and enjoy a day on the ice. 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