Lake Simcoe is one of Ontario's most accessible large lakes — just 90 minutes north of Toronto. With over 40 public launch points around its 722 km² surface, it draws anglers and boaters from across the GTA year-round.
Every motorized pleasure craft must display its Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) number on both sides of the bow — minimum 75 mm (3 inches) tall, contrasting colour. Ontario Conservation Officers patrol Lake Simcoe regularly throughout the open-water and ice fishing seasons. Get compliant vinyl decals →
Launch sites organized by shoreline area. Fees and seasonal hours vary — confirm with local municipalities before your trip.
Lake Simcoe is managed as a Special Fisheries Management Zone. Always check current Ontario MNRF regulations before fishing.
Most popular target. Cook's Bay and south Kempenfelt Bay in spring/fall. Check size limits.
Historically significant — recovering. Deep water (30–50m). Special regulations apply.
Beaverton and east shore areas. Spring spawning run in tributaries. Slot size limits apply.
Rocky shorelines and islands. Excellent summer fishery. Open season June through November.
Weedy bays and Cook's Bay margins. Good early season when water is cold.
Deep water, fall run. Ice fishing popular. Check Zone 17 regulations.
Conservation Officers patrol Lake Simcoe from Barrie to Beaverton throughout open-water and ice-fishing seasons. Your PCL number must appear on both sides of the bow in block letters, minimum 75 mm (3 inches) tall, contrasting colour to the hull. Pre-cut vinyl decals from Compliance Lettering are marine-rated for 5–7 years of UV exposure.