Pickerel Fishing at Cranberry Lake in Haliburton, Ontario

Pickerel Fishing at Cranberry Lake in Haliburton, Ontario

Sunrise Lake Ontario image by Sebastian from Fotolia.com

Cranberry Lake, Ontario, is located in the southwestern section of the province, near Kenora and Haliburton. The region is surrounded by boreal forest, and there are opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, hiking and fishing. Pickerel, the long spiny fish found in northern lakes and rivers, is a popular sport fish for anglers in the region. Pickerel are related to the muskellunge but are typically smaller.

Cranberry Lake

Ontario manages Cranberry Lake Provincial Park, home of the lake of the same name. The park does not require any user fees, and it allows canoes and kayaks. Pickerel fishing at the lake follows the province rules regarding creel limits and size requirements. Local anglers suggest using size 3 or 4 barbed hooks with a spoon or spinner for the fish.

Cranberry Lake Provincial Park
P.O. Box 5080
Kenora, Ontario
P9N 3X9
807-468-2669

Daily Creel Limits and Size Requirements

According to the 2010 Ontario fishing regulations for pickerel and muskelunge, fish must be at least 36 inches long. Daily limits are one fish for non-Canadian anglers, or two for residents of Canada. All anglers need a valid Ontario fishing license, which they must carry with them at all times while fishing. You can get a licenses through the provincial website or at sporting goods stores in the province.

Seasons and Camping Rules

The muskelunge and pickerel seasons are open from the third Saturday in June through December 15, as posted at the Ontario Fishing Regulations booklet and online portal. The Ontario rules also say that "non-residents camping on Crown land must follow conservation fishing license limits." Check with local fish and game wardens before fishing at Cranberry Lake for any current closures, restrictions or limit changes.

Article Written By Eric Cedric

A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.

Write for Trails.com
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