Fishing on Moira Lake

(Fishing Ontario Zone 18)

The days when you could simply throw your line in to the water without a care in the world have gone and many fall foul of the federal and provincial rules that govern our activities.

First, to fish anywhere in Ontario you need an Outdoors Card. These can be obtained from any one of the many agencies throughout Ontario and are usually valid for three years. They are non-transferable and should be carried with you at all times when on the lake.

But it doesn't stop there! Next you need valid fishing licence tag. There are exceptions and I would refer you to 'Fish Ontario' if you have any doubts or need information on costs.  For more information, visit the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources website.

Note:  Aboriginal people are exceptions - for example but only if they take fish for personal use and the fish are taken within their traditional or treat territory.

There are two types of fishing licences – Sport and Conservation.

Sport:  means that you can keep the fish you catch (as long as they are within the

guidelines)

Conservation: means that you must put any catches back in the lake.

There are limits to the number and types of fish you can catch on either type of licence. There are also limits on the size, types and amount of bait you can use, so do not be surprised if a Ranger or Police Officer asks to see your bait and/or catch!

Fish are protected during certain times of the year to encourage undisturbed breeding. Specific charts are contained in the guide but in general these are;

Walleye/Pickerel:    1 January – 1 March then 10 May – 31 December.

Bass:                     28 June – 30 November

Pike:                      1 January – 31 March then 10 May – 31 December

Muskies:                7 June – 15 December (note in Moira Lake these have to be at least

40 inches long to be retained)

Yellow Perch; Sunfish; Crappies and Catfish:        'open' all year round.

Enjoy your fishing and remember your card!