Big Gull Lake Fishing Guide 2026
Big Gull Lake is one of Ontario's best-kept fishing secrets. Stretching 21 kilometres through the Canadian Shield with 30+ islands and 75 km of shoreline, this North Frontenac gem offers some of the best freshwater fishing in the province — without the crowds.
What You Can Catch
Big Gull Lake supports a diverse fishery. Here's what's swimming below the surface.
Walleye
Spring & FallBig Gull Lake is renowned for walleye fishing. Best in spring and fall.
Smallmouth Bass
SummerAbundant smallmouth bass throughout the lake's rocky shorelines and around the 30+ islands.
Largemouth Bass
SummerFound in the shallower bays and weed beds along the 75 km of shoreline.
Northern Pike
Spring & SummerPike lurk in the weedy shallows — great for casting from shore or kayak fishing.
Perch
Year-roundPerfect for kids and beginners — catch them right off the dock.
Lake Whitefish
Fall & WinterA less common but prized catch in Big Gull Lake's deeper waters.
Seasonal Fishing Calendar
Spring (May – June)
Target species: Walleye, Northern Pike
The spring walleye run is legendary on Big Gull Lake. As the water warms after ice-out in late April / early May, walleye move into shallower water and feed aggressively. This is prime time for both shore and boat fishing. Pike are also active in the weed beds.
Summer (July – August)
Target species: Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass, Perch
Summer is bass season. Smallmouth congregate around the rocky points and island shorelines. Largemouth hold in the weedy bays. Perch can be caught all day off the dock — perfect for kids and beginners. Early morning and evening are best for bass.
Fall (September – October)
Target species: Walleye, Lake Whitefish
As the water cools, walleye become active again. Fall fishing on Big Gull is quieter and often more productive than spring. Lake whitefish move into the deeper channels. The fall colours along the 75 km of shoreline are a bonus.
Boat Rentals — Camp's Bay Marina
You don't need to tow a boat to fish Big Gull Lake. Camp's Bay Marina is located right next door to Island View Retreat and offers everything you need:
- Boat rentals from $99–$219/day
- Full fuel dock
- Bait and tackle shop
- Fish cleaning station
- Local fishing advice from the staff
Dock Fishing for Kids
One of the best things about staying at Island View Retreat is the dock fishing. Perch and small bass are regularly caught right off the dock — you don't even need to get in a boat. For families with younger kids, this is a game-changer. Bait up a worm, drop a line, and they'll be entertained for hours.
Fishing from a Kayak
Island View Retreat includes 2 fishing kayaks — stable, sit-on-top designs perfect for casting along the shoreline and around the islands. Kayak fishing lets you access spots that boats can't reach, and it's dead quiet — no motor to spook the fish.
Plan Your Fishing Trip
Island View Retreat is the perfect base camp for fishing Big Gull Lake. Spring weeks start at just $2,950 for the entire cottage.