Fishing in Niagara Falls
Fishing guide for Niagara Falls in 2026. Learn which licence you need, where the Niagara River rules change, and what to check for cross-border trips.
Quick Answer
Niagara Falls sits along the Niagara River, which connects Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. That makes it one of Canada’s easier fishing destinations to reach, especially for American visitors crossing from New York State. The river is known for steelhead, Chinook salmon, and smallmouth bass, but the licence, season, and cross-border checks matter more here than destination hype.
Licence Requirements
You need an Ontario fishing licence to fish at Niagara Falls. Non-Canadian residents should purchase an 8-Day Sport ($54.38) or 1-Day Sport ($24.86) licence online at huntandfishontario.com. An Outdoors Card ($8.57, valid 3 years) is required for all licence types except the 1-Day licence. American visitors crossing the border do not need to purchase their licence in advance — it can be bought online or at local tackle shops.
Best Fishing Spots
Niagara River below the Falls
riverThe whitewater section below Horseshoe Falls offers trophy steelhead and chinook salmon. Access from the Niagara Parkway recreational trail.
Whirlpool Area
riverThe Niagara Whirlpool and Devil's Hole area provide deep pools for lake trout and steelhead. Shore fishing from the Whirlpool trails.
Welland Canal
canalThe Welland Canal offers excellent smallmouth bass, walleye, and catfish fishing from shore. Public access at several lock stations.
Lake Ontario Piers
harbourPort Dalhousie and Jordan Harbour piers provide access to Lake Ontario for perch, bass, and seasonal salmon runs.
Seasonal Species Guide
Spring
April - MaySpring steelhead run is the highlight. Fish the Niagara River below the falls.
Summer
June - AugustBass fishing peaks in the Welland Canal and upper Niagara River.
Fall
September - NovemberThe fall salmon run brings massive chinook into the Niagara River.
Winter
December - MarchWinter steelhead fishing below the falls. No ice fishing in the main Niagara River.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing licence to fish at Niagara Falls?
Yes. You need an Ontario fishing licence. Non-Canadian residents can buy a 1-Day Sport licence ($24.86) or 8-Day Sport licence ($54.38). The 1-Day licence does not require an Outdoors Card.
Can Americans fish at Niagara Falls?
Yes. Americans can fish on the Canadian side of the Niagara River with an Ontario non-resident fishing licence. You can purchase online at huntandfishontario.com before crossing the border, or at local tackle shops in Niagara Falls.
Do I need a Canadian and US licence to fish the Niagara River?
You only need a licence for the side of the river you are fishing from. If fishing from the Canadian shore, you need an Ontario licence. If fishing from the New York side, you need a New York State licence. You do not need both unless you plan to fish from both sides.
What is the best time to fish at Niagara Falls?
Fall (September-November) offers the best fishing with massive chinook salmon runs. Spring (April-May) is excellent for steelhead. Summer is best for bass in the Welland Canal area.
Where can I buy bait and tackle near Niagara Falls?
Several tackle shops serve the Niagara Falls area including shops along Lundy's Lane and in nearby St. Catharines. They also sell Ontario fishing licences.