This Father’s Day, skip the tie and give Dad something a little more memorable: time on the water, lines cast, and stories shared. Whether you’re already an experienced angler or brand new to the joys of fishing, Great Blue Resorts offers the perfect setting for a low-stress, high-fun bonding experience with Dad. Just steps from your resort cottage, you’ll find peaceful lakes filled with a wide variety of fish, and plenty of opportunities for connection. In this blog, we’ll explore the fishing highlights at each of our resort locations and share what you’ll need to get started, whether you’re a total beginner or just a bit rusty.
Our Lakes and What You’ll Find
Each Great Blue Resort is located near a lake or river that’s full of life. Here’s a quick guide to what fish you can expect to find:
Rice Lake
Famous for its abundance, Rice Lake is one of Ontario’s best spots for family-friendly fishing. You’ll find:
Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass, Pickerel, Muskie, Perch, Crappie, Sunfish, Bluegill.
Whether you’re casting from the dock or out in a boat, Rice Lake delivers action for anglers of all ages.
Lake Seymour
This lake offers a wide variety of species and is a favourite for those looking to try different fishing styles. Expect to find:
Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Trout, Salmon, Perch, Muskie, Catfish
Perfect for adventurers ready to experiment with bait, tackle, and techniques.
Morrison Lake
Surrounded by classic cottage country scenery, Morrison Lake is peaceful and great for quiet mornings. You’ll find:
Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Muskie
A great place to slow things down and focus on the experience.
East Lake
This calm lake is ideal for young fishers or first-timers. It’s home to:
Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Pickerel
A great spot for dock fishing or a short canoe trip with Dad.
Bonnie Lake
Smaller but no less fun, Bonnie Lake is perfect for a quick fishing session close to the cottage. Expect to catch:
Pike, Perch
It’s a quieter lake, great for patient anglers or peaceful sunset fishing.
Trent River
With a wide, slow-moving current and plenty of fishing hot spots, Trent River is a must-visit for anyone looking for variety. It hosts:
Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Catfish, Carp, Gar, Pickerel, Pike, Muskie
A fantastic choice for a full day of exploration and angling.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Even if it’s your first time fishing, getting set up is easy. Most Great Blue Resorts have a Welcome Centre stocked with the basics, but half the fun can be a supply run into town with Dad to pick out your gear together. Here’s what you’ll need:
The Essentials
Fishing Rod & Reel: Choose a rod you feel fits your skill level, no shame in a Barbie themed fishing pole. Check that the line is in good shape and securely attached to the reel.
Hooks: Make sure you have the appropriate hook for your fish goals, and that it’s tied on very securely so no fish swims off with a sharp lunch.
Bait: Worms are a classic and available at many of our resort stores. Artificial lures can help you target specific species (and look super cool).
Helpful Extras
Bobbers or Floats: These keep your bait suspended at the right depth and give you a visual alert when something bites.
Fishing Net: Don’t let the big one get away! A net makes it easier to land your catch without losing it at the edge.
Tackle Box: A small, organized box for hooks, sinkers, lures, and line clippers can make everything easier.
Pliers or Hook Remover: For safely removing hooks, especially if you plan to catch and release.
Safety & Comfort:
Life Jackets: Mandatory for boat or canoe trips, especially with kids.
Sunscreen & Bug Spray: The best stories don’t often start with sunburn or bug bites.
Snacks & Drinks: A few granola bars, a thermos of coffee, or a favourite treat can make even a quiet morning extra special.
Fishing License: If you’re over 18 and not fishing on a free license day (like Father’s Day weekend is in Ontario!), make sure to grab an Outdoors Card and license.
At the end of the day, fishing isn’t really about what you catch, it’s about the moments in between.
The stillness of the water at dawn. The splash and scramble when something finally bites. The stories Dad tells while you wait, the quiet companionship, and the laughs when someone snags a weed and insists it was a sea monster. Whether it’s your first time fishing or a cherished annual tradition, Father’s Day at Great Blue Resorts is your chance to slow down, enjoy nature, and celebrate the simple joys of time spent together.
So pack a few snacks, grab your tackle box, and cast a line. This Father’s Day, the best thing you can reel in is a great memory.
