
Experience a Fishing and Hunting Paradise of Western Manitoulin. Cast your line into our pristine lakes, teeming with a variety of fish species that promise an angler's delight. Our expansive wilderness is a haven for hunters, offering diverse terrains and abundant game. Whether you're an avid angler or a seasoned hunter, the beauty of the landscape enhances every outdoor pursuit. From tranquil lakeside moments to the thrill of a successful hunt, Western Manitoulin invites you to experience the untamed allure of its fishing and hunting offerings. Immerse yourself in nature's bounty, where every cast and every shot tell a story of connection with the wild.
Canadian residents between the ages of 18 and 65, need a fishing licence (under 18 and over 65 you don't need one). All non-residents over the age of 18 require a licence.
There are fantastic fishing opportunities in west Manitoulin's inland lakes and north channel, attracting anglers interested in catching a variety of fish species including pike, bass, perch, pickerel, herring, whitefish, rainbow trout, and salmon. This is a year round sport on West Manitoulin. Ice Fishing is a great opportunity to enjoy the winter on Manitoulin island.
Manitoulin Angling and Outdoors Recreation Map (arcgis.com)
It is imperative to emphasize that hunting is strictly permitted on private property only with explicit permission from the property owner. In adherence to the regulations set forth by the Ontario Hunting Regulations, it is essential for all hunters to respect and abide by these guidelines. Please be diligent in obtaining the necessary permissions and ensure compliance with all stipulations outlined in the Ontario Hunting Regulations.
The Gore Bay Fish Hatchery located on Water Street in Gore Bay is operated by the Gore Bay Fish & Game Club. Operated by a dedicated group of volunteers, the Gore Bay Fish Hatchery was started in 1986 at it’s original location in what is now known as the Gore Bay Harbour Centre. Since that time, it has been relocated to its new home a short distance away along Gore Bay’s waterfront.
To date this community based hatchery has planted approximately 3 million fish in and around Manitoulin Island which has greatly contributed t our tourist based economy and ultimately benefited all municipalities on Manitoulin. Over the past 10 years the club has shifted their efforts to walleye stocking in Lake Kagawong in the hopes of establishing either a self reproducing fishery or an ongoing put and take fishery.
Walleye and yellow perch are the two most sought after fish by anglers in Ontario. Annually the clubs operating expenses related to the hatchery average $4500.00. All of the considerable time and labour associated with raising summer pond fingerlings to an advanced stocking size in a hatchery setting is donated by a small group of very dedicated volunteers.
The Town of Gore Bay has been a partner of the club since the hatcheries started in 1986. Currently the club is at their second location in a building owned by the Town. The Town's annual contribution of in kind support by providing no cost rent and financial administration related to hatchery expenses saves the club at least an additional $1,500.00 each year.
Annually, the club needs to raise at least several thousand dollars more to continue with their valuable stocking program for Lake Kagawong, which they believe ultimately benefits everyone.
The Town of Gore Bay is acting as the receiver of any financial donations that may be directed to the Gore Bay Game & Fish Club to support the hatchery. Any donations received will be used to cover expenses related to the operation of the hatchery only. To date, we have two Western Manitoulin municipalities that have each donated ($1,000.) to assist with the annual fish rearing. They are Billings and Gordon/Barrie Island.
TO SUPPORT THE GORE BAY GAME & FISH CLUB please donate to the "Town of Gore Bay" re: Fish Hatchery by etransfer to fishpayment@gorebay.ca. You can also make a donation at the
Gore Bay Municipal Office at 15 Water Street.