Top Fishing Spots in Windsor-Essex County
There’s something almost magical about fishing in Windsor Essex County. Maybe it’s the calm ripple of the Detroit River at sunrise, or the thrill of reeling in a walleye from Lake Erie on a summer afternoon. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking for a peaceful way to spend the weekend, Windsor’s diverse waters have something for everyone.
From stocked urban lakes to wild muskie territory, this region is a treasure chest for anyone with a rod, a reel, and a bit of patience.
Ready to cast a line? Let’s dive into the Top fishing spots in Windsor Essex County—including when the fish are biting, where the Ministry of Natural Resources is restocking, and what licenses you need to avoid that awkward convo with a conservation officer.
Detroit River
The Detroit River is renowned for its spring walleye run, attracting anglers from across the province. Accessible shoreline spots include the Riverwalk, Dieppe Gardens, and areas near Caesars Windsor. The river also hosts species like smallmouth bass, northern pike, and muskellunge.
Fish You’ll Find: Walleye, smallmouth bass, muskie, perch, white bass
Best Time to Go: Mid-April to early June for the legendary walleye run
Access Points: Dieppe Gardens, Riverfront Trail, McKee Park, Sandwich Marina
Why Locals Love It: This river literally draws anglers from across North America. The spring walleye run? Chef’s kiss.
✅ Insider Tip: Jigging near the Ambassador Bridge is prime during the early spring thaw. Don’t forget a net—these fish fight har
Lake St. Clair
Known for its muskie population, Lake St. Clair also offers excellent opportunities for bass and perch fishing. Popular access points include Lighthouse Cove and the Belle River Marina.
Fish You’ll Find: Muskie, smallmouth bass, crappie, perch
Access Points: Belle River Marina, Lighthouse Cove, Mitchell’s Bay
Restocking Info: Naturally sustained population; no regular restocking
Boat Launches: Available at most marinas with day-pass options.
🎯 Pro Move: Troll with large spinnerbaits for muskie near Pike Creek during late summer.
Lake Erie
Known for its muskie population, Lake St. Clair also offers excellent opportunities for bass and perch fishing. Popular access points include Lighthouse Cove and the Belle River Marina.
Fish You’ll Find: Walleye, perch, steelhead, rainbow trout
Best Time to Go: Late June to September
Popular Towns: Colchester, Kingsville, Wheatley, Leamington
Restocking: Some rainbow trout are stocked in feeder streams by the Ontario MNRF
👨👩👧👦 Great for family fishing charters or casual shore casting at Colchester Harbour.
Blue Heron Lake
Situated in East Riverside Park, Blue Heron Lake is a man-made reservoir stocked with species like sunfish, bluegill, perch, and bass. It’s an ideal spot for family-friendly fishing.
Location: East Riverside Park, Windsor
- Fish You’ll Find: Bluegill, sunfish, largemouth bass, stocked rainbow trout
- Stocking Schedule: Spring and fall (April & October) by Ontario’s Urban Fishing Program
- Best For: Beginners, kids, and lunchtime casts.
🐟 Restocking Note: The City of Windsor and MNRF coordinate seasonal restocking of rainbow trout in Blue Heron Lake twice yearly. It’s one of the few stocked public lakes in the city.
Peche Island
Peche Island is a hidden gem located at the mouth of the Detroit River, just offshore from Windsor’s Riverside Drive. Accessible only by boat or kayak, this 86-acre island offers a peaceful escape with lush forested trails, sandy beaches, and prime shoreline fishing. It’s an ideal spot for anglers seeking pike, bass, and muskie in a quiet, natural setting.
How to Get There: Boat or kayak from Reaume Park or Lakeview Marina
Fish You’ll Find: Pike, muskie, bass
Pro Tip: Quiet bays around the island are hotspots in early fall
Restrictions: Limited access without watercraft
🌿 Pack bug spray, snacks, and a dry bag—this one’s a full-day fishing adventure.
🐟 Do the Fish Follow a Schedule? You Bet They Do
Fish aren’t random swimmers. They follow seasonal patterns tied to water temps and spawning cycles. Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Season | Active Fish | Best Waters |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–Jun) | Walleye, Pike, Perch | Detroit River, Blue Heron Lake |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Bass, Muskie, Perch | Lake St. Clair, Lake Erie |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Muskie, Trout | Peche Island, inland creeks |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Ice Fishing (when safe) | Mitchell’s Bay, Belle River (Lake St. Clair) |
🧊 Safety Tip: Ice fishing on local lakes is a winter tradition, but always check ice thickness (minimum 4 inches for walking) and local advisories before heading out.
How to Get a Fishing License in Windsor Essex County
If you’re between the ages of 18–64, you’ll need:
✅ A valid Outdoors Card (good for 3 years)
✅ A valid Fishing License:
Sport Fishing License – higher catch limits
Conservation License – lower limits, cheaper
You can get both online through Ontario’s Fish & Wildlife Licensing Service or at authorized retailers (Canadian Tire, ServiceOntario, etc.).
Whether you’re casting for the first time or chasing that elusive muskie, living in Windsor, Ontario, gives you front-row access to some of Ontario’s most diverse and underrated fishing. From downtown riverfront piers to wild shoreline escapes just minutes from town, there’s always a spot waiting.
Looking to live closer to the water? Imagine waking up steps from your favourite fishing hole. I can help with that. 👇
