Cape Croker is a stunning spot nestled on Georgian Bay’s Bruce Peninsula, known for its crystal-clear waters. My mom had mentioned the spot to me and asked my girlfriend and I if we’d like to join her on a trip there. Naturally, my first thought was, “What kind of fishing can I do?” After some research online and chatting with a friend with some local knowledge, I decided to try my luck at salmon fishing.
Cape Croker is a draw because of more than just striking blue water, breathtaking views, and fishing opportunity, however. Its proximity to southern cities makes it an ideal weekend getaway.
Accommodation options are varied. You can camp in tents, RVs, or trailers, or you prefer a bit more comfort, rent a cabin.
One of the best things about salmon fishing in Georgian Bay is how close the fish are. Most marinas offer quick access to waters where the drop-offs are steep — prime real estate for salmon, which often patrol these areas. You’ll mostly encounter coho and chinook salmon, and while there are other species, these are the most common in early to mid summer.
For salmon fishing, speed is key. Troll fast, generally between 3 and 4 mph (4.8 to 6.4 km/h), though water currents will also affect how fast you should go. Varying your presentation depths is also essential — try running some lures shallow and others deeper in the water column. If one depth isn’t working, adjust.
I had success using everything from planer boards running baits 10-20 feet deep, to dipsy divers, riggers, and weighted steel lines catching fish at depths of 90-100 feet.
Spoons tend to be your best bet here. Salmon in Georgian Bay are notorious for their keen eyesight in the ultra-clear waters. They don’t like over-the- top set-ups with lots of hardware (i.e. flasher fly combo); instead, simple rigs with extra-long leaders (10 feet plus) are the way to go. The water is so clear that fish can easily spot any inconsistencies in your set-up. My go-to rig is 25-pound fluorocarbon on 25- or 30-pound braid for my dipsies and downriggers. You may be able to downsize slightly but remember there are giant salmon that can spool an unprepared fisherman.
Another perk of fishing here is the scenery. The waters are so clear that you can see logs and rocks on the bottom even at depths of 70 feet. Towering cliffs line the bay, creating a stunning backdrop while you reel in fish from some of Ontario’s coldest waters.
Cape Croker has two must-do trails that offer spectacular views. Hiking through these peaceful forests, with no sound except nature, is a true soul refresher. These trails offer some of the best vistas of Georgian Bay, overlooking beaches, cliffs, and crystal-clear waters filled with sailboats, views that are hard to find anywhere else on the planet.
While the full trail loop can be quite a trek, there are plenty of scenic lookouts along the way, perfect for those not up for the full hike or for families with young children. The trail can be challenging for older hikers, but with patience and good health, most people can complete it at their own pace.
For those who want to experience the views without the full hike, many lookouts are a relatively short distance into the trail.
Cape Croker Park, with 315 campsites in seven campgrounds, offers something for everyone. The bay itself is well-protected, making it perfect for canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and other water toys. The water has a rocky, pebblelike bottom near shore, ideal for kids to play in. There’s also a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts and cultural celebrations.
For the active crowd, there’s a playground, a sand volleyball court, and open fields for sports. The beach is covered in flat stones perfect for skipping.
If you’d rather not cook, there’s a food truck that serves delicious fish and chips. The park’s head office sells firewood, ice, and other small items. If you are going to cook, bring your groceries with you as the closest grocery store is in Wiarton, roughly a half hour drive away. And if you are going to cook, make sure to get some hot dogs, smores, and invite me over.
Accommodations:
Campsites with or without power, 1 or 2-bedroom cabins, forest, beach or open field camping.
Cost:
2 bed cabin is $250 per night, 1 bedroom is $225. Basic camp sites are
$50 per night, and 30-amp powered campsite is roughly
$75. Boat launch is
$30 in most places.
Getting there: Cape Croker is one hour drive north of Owen Sound, on the Bruce Penninsula. It’s roughly three and a half hours from Toronto.
Contact:
Cape Croker Park
112 Park Rd., Neyaashiinigmiing
519-534-0571
info@capecroker.com
Originally published in the June-July 2025 issue of Ontario OUT of DOORS
Contact Information
PO Box 2800 / 4601 Guthrie Dr.
Peterborough, Ontario Canada K9J 8L5
Phone: 705-748-OFAH (6324)
Fax: 705-748-9577
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