For recreational fishing within roughly 100 miles (160 km) of Montreal, here are some of the most popular and productive areas.
Waters and species
| Location | Approx. distance from downtown | Species commonly caught |
|---|---|---|
| Lac Saint-Louis | 0–25 km | Walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, muskie |
| Rivière des Mille Îles | 15–35 km | Pike, bass, walleye, panfish |
| Lac des Deux Montagnes | 25–50 km | Muskie, pike, bass, walleye |
| Parc national d'Oka | 50 km | Bass, pike, perch |
| Rivière Richelieu | 40–80 km | Walleye, pike, catfish, sturgeon |
| Lac Saint-Pierre | 120 km | Walleye, pike, yellow perch |
| Parc national du Mont-Tremblant | 140 km | Brook trout, lake trout |
| Réservoir Baskatong | 160 km | Walleye, pike, lake trout |
Top 5 for boat fishing
- Lac Saint-Louis
- Lac des Deux Montagnes
- Rivière Richelieu
- Lac Saint-Pierre
- Réservoir Baskatong
Top 5 shore fishing spots
- Parc de la Visitation
- Parc des Rapides
- Parc de l'Île-de-la-Visitation
- Parc national d'Oka
- Rivière des Mille Îles
Best species around Montreal
- Walleye (doré) — spring and fall are excellent.
- Northern pike (brochet) — very common around weed beds.
- Smallmouth bass — outstanding in the St. Lawrence system.
- Muskie (maskinongé) — trophy fish in Lac Saint-Louis and Lac des Deux Montagnes.
- Yellow perch — good family-friendly fishing.
- Lake trout & brook trout — better north toward Tremblant and the Laurentians.
Note: distances are approximate and measured from downtown. Always check current provincial regulations and fishing licence requirements before heading out.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to fish near Montreal?
Yes. Sport fishing in Quebec requires a valid provincial licence, with limited exceptions. Check the official regulations before your trip.
What are the best shore fishing spots?
Parc des Rapides, Parc de l’Île-de-la-Visitation and Parc national d’Oka all offer good shoreline access near Montreal.
