Question 1

What's the best Mercury for Rice Lake fishing?

Accepted Answer

For most Rice Lake anglers, a 16 to 18 ft aluminum console with 60 to 115 HP FourStroke main + 9.9 ProKicker. The 90 EXLPT FourStroke is the sweet spot.

Question 2

What's the best Mercury for Lake Simcoe walleye?

Accepted Answer

For Simcoe walleye, a 17 to 19 ft deep-V aluminum boat with 90 to 150 HP FourStroke + 9.9 ProKicker. The 115 EXLPT FourStroke is the sweet spot.

Question 3

What's the best Mercury for Lake Ontario salmon?

Accepted Answer

For Lake Ontario salmon trolling, 22 to 26 ft deep-V or walkaround with 250 to 300 HP V8 FourStroke + 15 HP ProKicker.

Question 4

Do I need a kicker for Ontario fishing?

Accepted Answer

For walleye trolling on most Ontario lakes, yes. The 9.9 ProKicker is the standard for sheltered lakes; the 15 HP ProKicker is the standard for Lake Ontario salmon spreads.

Question 5

Where do most Rice Lake anglers launch?

Accepted Answer

Bewdley, Hastings, and Roseneath public ramps. Each has different characteristics. Many cottagers launch from private docks.

Question 6

Can I fish Lake Simcoe with a Rice Lake setup?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes, with caution. Boats under 17 ft are exposed in moderate Simcoe weather. Most serious Simcoe anglers run bigger.

Question 7

When does walleye season open in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

For Zone 17 (Kawartha lakes including Rice Lake), typically the second Saturday of May. Confirm current year dates from OMNR.

Question 8

What about ice fishing season?

Accepted Answer

Lake Simcoe is a major ice fishing destination. Rice Lake and Kawartha lakes have ice fishing seasons too. Boat-side, this is the time for repowers, winterization confirmation, and spring planning.