What Fish Can You Catch on Georgian Bay in Summer?

There are plenty of fish you can catch on Georgian Bay in the summer. If you get the timing and location right, that is.

Between its rocky islands, deep channels, and endless shoreline, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to hook into fish like salmon, lake trout, and bass. And really, for a fun day fishing on the water, what other types do you need?

Here’s a breakdown of how the season typically shapes up and what you can expect to reel in.

When Is the Best Time to Fish Georgian Bay in Summer?

Fishing on Georgian Bay kicks off in May and stretches through October, with most local charters running right through that window. It really is the perfect time for fishing, as it’s the sweet spot when salmon, trout, and bass are most active.

Summer, especially, is hard to beat. Longer days give you more time on the water, the weather is at its best, and most species are feeding aggressively. So, if you’re looking for the best time for Georgian Bay fishing between May and October, many anglers will tell you that June through August delivers a mix of steady action and trophy potential.

Which Big-Game Fish Can You Target in Georgian Bay?

Not a fan of dealing with the smaller guys? Here are some of the big-game fish you can target in Georgian Bay.

Can you catch Chinook Salmon here?

Yes, you can catch Chinook Salmon around Georgian Bay, and they’re one of the main reasons many anglers flock here. 

Chinook Salmon fishing in Georgian Bay is all about the fight. These fish, often pushing past 20 pounds, are notorious for long runs and sheer power.

If you’re fishing out of Collingwood in summer, charter captains may troll the deeper channels where salmon gather once the water warms. If you want to test your patience and your gear, Chinook salmon should be high on your list.

What about Lake Trout fishing near Collingwood?

Now, if you’re chasing size and endurance, you may want to set your sights on lake trout. Lake trout fishing in Collingwood has been a local staple for generations, and summer is one of the best times to target them.

These fish hold deep in the bay’s colder water, so your guide may use downriggers to get lures into the strike zone. When one hits, you’ll feel the weight right away, as lake trout don’t give up without a fight. And really, that’s part of their appeal.

Which Nearshore Fish Are Worth Targeting?

Not every trip has to be about deepwater trolling. If you’d rather keep the action closer to the islands, Smallmouth Bass fishing in Georgian Bay could be the highlight of your summer.

These guys thrive in rocky shoals, weed lines, and shallow bays. Although they may not rival salmon in size, they make up for it with their fight — expect darting runs, jumps, and non-stop energy. If you enjoy lighter tackle and plenty of action, you’ll want to carve out some time for bass while you’re here.

So, What Fish Can You Catch on Georgian Bay in Summer? (Recap)

Here’s the quick breakdown of the fish you can catch on Georgian Bay in the summer:

• Chinook salmon, if you want the thrill of a heavyweight fight.

• Lake trout, if you’re chasing deepwater trophies near Collingwood.

• Smallmouth bass, if you’d rather stay nearshore and keep busy all day.

• Plus bonus catches like rainbow trout, northern pike, and walleye, depending on where you drop a line.

The beauty of Georgian Bay is that you don’t have to pick just one. You can troll deep water in the morning for salmon or trout, then shift to bass in the afternoon, all without leaving the same stretch of water.

Ready to Try Fishing Georgian Bay This Summer?

So, what fish can you catch on Georgian Bay in summer? Well, it’s enough to keep every angler satisfied, whether you’re after trophy-size salmon, hard-fighting trout, or scrappy bass along the islands.

If you’d like to make the most of it without worrying about gear, tactics, or finding the right spots, a guided trip is the way to go. Collingwood Charters offers fishing charters throughout the summer, giving you the local knowledge and setup you need to hook into Georgian Bay’s best. Contact us to book your summer fishing trip today.