{"version":"2.6","id":"ashbridges-fishing-rules-and-species-at-the-launch","question":"What are the fishing rules, seasonal species guidelines, and safety precautions for anglers at the Ashbridges Bay Boat Launch area?","answer":"Anglers must hold a valid Ontario fishing license, follow seasonal catch limits for Northern Pike (open May–March) and Lake Trout (open Jan–Sept), and heed Lake Ontario fish consumption advisories (e.g., limit meals of Northern Pike to 2 per month). Always yield to active boaters and stay within designated shore-fishing zones.","answer_detail":"At the Ashbridges Bay Boat Launch (located at 1561 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4L 3W6), anglers must comply with Ontario’s fishing regulations. A valid Ontario fishing license is required for anyone aged 18–64; licenses cost $27.12 for a one-year sport fishing license (2025 rate). Seasonal species accessible from shore include Northern Pike (open from the 1st Saturday in May to March 31, with a catch limit of 4 fish, none between 70–90 cm) and Lake Trout (open from January 1 to September 30, with a limit of 2 fish, minimum size 60 cm). For safety, Lake Ontario fish consumption guidelines from the Ontario Ministry of the Environment advise limiting meals of Northern Pike to 2 per month due to mercury levels, and Lake Trout to 4 per month. At the launch area, anglers must stay on the designated shore-fishing platforms (marked by yellow signs) and never block the boat ramp or trailer parking. Boaters have priority; wait at least 10 meters from the ramp edge when boats are launching or retrieving. Always wear a life jacket when near the water, and avoid fishing during high-traffic hours (weekends 8 AM–12 PM). Dispose of fishing line in provided recycling bins to protect wildlife.","related_ids":["ashbridges-fishing-rules-and-species-at-the-launch"],"last_verified":"2026-06-20","authority":"https://ashbridgesbayboatlaunch.com","url":"https://ashbridgesbayboatlaunch.com/en/knowledge/ashbridges-fishing-rules-and-species-at-the-launch","markdown_url":"https://ashbridgesbayboatlaunch.com/api/knowledge/ashbridges-fishing-rules-and-species-at-the-launch?format=md&lang=en"}