Fishing the St. Mary’s River In Ontario

Nestled in the heart of the Great Lakes system, the St. Mary’s River is a prime spot to catch multiple species of fish from the banks or from the boat.
As a musky guide on Lake Huron, and a steelhead and salmon guide, I’ve known for a long time that the St Mary’s River has some of the best musky and steelhead fishing in the area.
Angler will also do well with coho, chinook, and Atlantic salmon.
In fact, the Atlantic salmon is the best anywhere on the Great Lakes.
This is a haven for anglers seeking world-class fishing.
Flowing between Lake Superior and Lake Huron, this diverse waterway offers everything a fishing enthusiast could dream of: sprawling channels, deep pools, rapids, and a healthy ecosystem teeming with fish.
As a professional fishing guide with years of experience navigating Lake Huron waters, I’m here to share insights, tips, and strategies to make your fishing trip on the St. Mary’s River both successful and unforgettable.
The St. Mary’s River: An Overview of Its Fishing Opportunities

The St. Mary’s River is a dynamic fishery that’s home to numerous species, including salmon, steelhead, walleye, northern pike, lake trout, smallmouth bass, muskellunge, and perch.
The river is particularly famous for its seasonal salmon and steelhead runs, drawing anglers from all over North America.
Whether you’re an avid fly angler, a trolling enthusiast, or prefer casting from shore, the St. Mary’s River accommodates all styles of fishing.
It is a favorite of guys who like to spey fish and float fish.
Its varied habitats, from the fast-moving rapids near Sault Ste. Marie to its calm, expansive channels, provide opportunities to target different species throughout the year.
Prime Fishing Spots on the St. Mary’s River

Knowing where to fish is half the battle, and as a guide, I’ve come to know the river like the back of my hand. Here are some top spots that consistently deliver great fishing experiences:
1. The Rapids (Sault Ste. Marie)
The St. Mary’s Rapids are arguably the crown jewel for anglers looking to target steelhead, salmon, and trout. The fast-moving waters oxygenate the river, creating an ideal environment for these species. Spring and fall are peak seasons for salmon and steelhead, but anglers can also find resident rainbow trout year-round.
Pro Tip: Drifting roe bags, beads, or nymph patterns through the current is highly effective. Waders are essential here, and polarized sunglasses will help you spot fish in the clear water.
2. Lake George Channel
Known for its calm, deep waters, the Lake George Channel is ideal for trolling and jigging. This area is a hotspot for walleye, northern pike, and muskellunge, especially in the spring and fall when these species are most active.
Pro Tip: Slow trolling with crankbaits or bottom-bouncing with worm harnesses can yield impressive results. In summer, focus on weed edges and drop-offs.
3. St. Joseph Island
Surrounding St. Joseph Island, you’ll find excellent fishing for smallmouth bass, perch, and pike. The island’s shallow bays and rocky shorelines provide the perfect habitat for these species.
Pro Tip: Use topwater lures early in the morning or late evening for aggressive smallmouth bass strikes. Jigs and soft plastics work well along rocky bottoms.
4. The Lower River (Near Detour Village)
As the river flows toward Lake Huron, it broadens and deepens, making it an excellent location for targeting lake trout and walleye. The colder, deeper waters attract larger fish, especially in the summer.
Pro Tip: Trolling with downriggers or vertical jigging near structure can be highly productive. Keep an eye on water temperatures and baitfish activity to locate feeding fish.
Seasonal Breakdown: When to Fish the St. Mary’s River
Success on the St. Mary’s River largely depends on timing. While it’s a year-round fishery, certain seasons offer peak opportunities for specific species.
Spring (April to June)

Spring is an exciting time, as fish become more active with warming waters. Steelhead, walleye, and northern pike dominate the early season. Steelhead return to the river to spawn, providing fantastic action in the rapids.
Guide Tip: Focus on shallow, warmer waters where baitfish gather. Casting jerkbaits or using live minnows can produce aggressive bites.
Summer (July to August)
Summer brings a mix of warm-water species like smallmouth bass, perch, and northern pike. Trolling for walleye and lake trout in deeper waters is common, as they move to cooler depths.
Guide Tip: Fish early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the midday heat. Drop-shot rigs and crankbaits are effective for bass, while spoons work well for trout.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is arguably the best time to fish the St. Mary’s River. Salmon begin their migration upstream, and steelhead follow closely behind. Northern pike and walleye are also highly active, feeding heavily before winter.
Guide Tip: For salmon, drifting roe bags or casting spoons near the rapids is ideal. Steelhead can be caught on fly rods using egg patterns or streamers.
Winter (December to March)

While ice fishing isn’t as widespread on the St. Mary’s River as it is on nearby lakes, certain back bays and sheltered areas freeze over, offering good opportunities for perch and northern pike.
Guide Tip: Use tip-ups with live bait or jigging spoons to attract bites under the ice.
Essential Gear and Tackle
Having the right gear can make or break your fishing trip. Here are some essentials I always recommend to clients:
- Rod and Reel: Medium to medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting rods are versatile enough for most species. Fly anglers targeting steelhead or salmon should bring 7- to 9-weight rods.
- Line: Use 8- to 12-pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon for most species. Heavier braided line (20-30 lbs) is necessary when targeting pike or muskie.
- Bait and Lures: Crankbaits, jerkbaits, jigs, spoons, soft plastics, and spinners cover most situations. For fly anglers, bring nymphs, streamers, and egg patterns.
- Waders and Boots: Especially important when fishing the rapids. Waterproof and slip-resistant footwear is a must.
- Polarized Sunglasses: Crucial for spotting fish and reducing glare.
Local Regulations and Conservation Efforts
Respecting local fishing regulations is essential to preserving the St. Mary’s River’s rich fishery. Make sure you have a valid Ontario or Michigan fishing license, depending on where you fish. Be aware of catch limits, seasonal closures, and protected areas.
The St. Mary’s River also benefits from ongoing conservation efforts aimed at maintaining healthy fish populations and water quality. As an angler, practicing catch-and-release for certain species and minimizing your impact on the environment ensures that future generations can enjoy this incredible resource.
Fishing regulations change so you MUST check the fishing regulations before you fish for any species. Do not rely on my website or other fishing websites. Use the official OMNR website.
Final Thoughts: Why the St. Mary’s River Should Be on Your Fishing Bucket List
There’s something truly special about fishing the St. Mary’s River. It’s not just the variety of species or the stunning scenery—it’s the thrill of the unknown. One moment, you could be battling a trophy walleye, and the next, a steelhead could be peeling line off your reel.
As a professional fishing guide, I’ve seen anglers experience everything from their first salmon to personal-best pike on these waters. No matter your level of experience, the St. Mary’s River offers a chance to connect with nature, hone your skills, and create lasting memories. So, pack your gear, book a trip, and get ready for an adventure—the fish of a lifetime could be waiting just beneath the surface.
Tight Lines,
Graham