Anglers visiting for fishing can explore over 100 lakes, including the deep basins of Bon Echo Provincial Park for Lake Trout. The region supports trophy Smallmouth Bass in the northern shield lakes and world-class Walleye in the Napanee River, providing diverse year-round opportunities for recreational and professional sports fishing.
Fishing is woven into the identity of Lennox & Addington, shaped by the shift from the fertile Bay of Quinte southward to the deep, cold basins of the Addington Highlands. The area has earned national recognition through local advocates who point to the exceptional multi-species opportunities found within a single watershed. These waters are carefully managed to preserve native species, including naturally reproducing Lake Trout that hold in the oxygen-rich depths of Mazinaw Lake, where the bottom drops to nearly 500 feet.
The habitats here vary widely. You can cast into the weedy shallows of the Napanee River or work the rocky drop-offs of the northern shield in the same trip. Shore fishing is common at urban waterfronts, while a boat or kayak is recommended for accessing the interior lakes of the Addington Highlands.
What to Expect
Here’s What’s Different
- Hay Bay and the Napanee River have strong reputations among anglers for the variety of species and the accessible waterfront for shore casting. Learn More
- Skootamatta Lake is a top-tier destination for high-action Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass. Learn More
Lake Trout, Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Northern Pike, Walleye, Salmon, Pumpkinseed, and Bluegill are just a few of the fish caught in the area. - Lennox & Addington County native Ashley Rae has been exploring the waters of Lennox & Addington County and sharing her fishing adventures along the way. Learn More
Good to Know
- Always carry a valid Ontario fishing license and Outdoors Card.Â
- Clean Drain Dry
In Ontario, it is illegal to transport invasive species overland. Before moving your boat between waterways, remove drain plugs, clear all aquatic plants and animals from your hull, trailer, and equipment, and allow everything to dry fully before re-launching. Many lakes in L&A have invasive species control programs in place with marked buoy areas to avoid. If you dislodge a weed with your prop or fishing line, pull it into the boat and dispose of it on land away from the water.
Read the full guide to protecting L&A’s waterways.
- LOCAL TIP
Ice fishing is a serious pursuit in Lennox & Addington County. Whether it is Hay Bay, Beaver Lake, or Skootamatta, there are plenty of good spots to drill a hole and drop a line. Always check ice conditions before heading out.
- FAST FACTS
- FMZ 18 regulations apply to most county waters.
- Mazinaw Lake is the 7th deepest in the province.
Location Details
Distance: Varies by lake, see boat launches for access
Difficulty: Easy to advanced
Your Route
What We Offer
Common Questions
Anglers primarily target Lake Trout in Mazinaw’s deep waters, while Weslemkoon and Skootamatta are known for trophy Smallmouth Bass. The region offers diverse opportunities for Walleye, Pike, and Panfish across its northern shield lakes and southern river systems. Learn more about the best places to fish.
Yes, several local shops in Napanee and the Highlands provide live bait and tackle.
Conservation Park and various municipal piers offer excellent shore casting.
Whether you are shore fishing or heading out on the water by boat, kayak, or canoe, the access points are plentiful. Here are places to launch your boat for a day of fishing.
Ontario law requires anglers and boaters to help prevent the spread of invasive species by following the Clean, Drain, Dry rule. Before moving your boat or equipment between lakes, remove drain plugs and drain all water, and make sure there are no aquatic plants, animals, or algae attached to your boat, trailer, or gear. It is illegal to transport invasive species overland or launch equipment with vegetation or organisms attached. Taking a few minutes to clean your equipment helps protect Lennox & Addington’s lakes and fisheries for future anglers. Read the full guide to protecting L&A’s waterways.
Contacts
Naturally L&A Visitor Centre
Help us plan your Lennox & Addington Adventure Stop in and see us at 41 Dundas St. W. in Napanee.
Monday – Friday from 8:30am – 4:30pm.
Get the Itinerary
Get the official Backroad Adventure route sent to your phone with stops and local recommendations ready to go.
Getting Here
Naturally L&A Visitor Centre
Help us plan your Lennox & Addington Adventure Stop in and see us at 41 Dundas St. W. in Napanee.