Montreal, Quebec

What's biting

• Largemouth Bass

  Where: Shallow bays and weed edges of the St. Lawrence River, Lac Saint-Louis, and suburban ponds; look for remaining aquatic vegetation.

  Early fall is prime time as bass feed heavily before winter. Work soft plastics and topwater lures along weed lines at dawn and dusk; water is still warm enough (21°C) for active feeding.

  Caution: Confirm current size and possession limits with Québec Sport Fishing; regulations change annually.

• Smallmouth Bass

  Where: Rocky shorelines and drop-offs of the St. Lawrence River and Lac des Deux-Montagnes; deeper structure becomes more attractive as water cools.

  Target rocky points and submerged boulders 2–4 m (6–13 ft) deep with crankbaits or jigs. September cooling triggers aggressive feeding.

  Caution: Check current regulations for size and bag limits before fishing.

• Walleye

  Where: Deeper channels and structure of the St. Lawrence River, particularly near the Lachine Rapids and Lac Saint-Louis; also Lac des Deux-Montagnes.

  As daylight shortens, walleye move shallower in early morning and late evening. Fish live shiners or jigs near bottom structure in 3–6 m (10–20 ft) of water.

  Caution: Walleye seasons and limits are tightly regulated; verify current rules with the regulator.

• Northern Pike

  Where: Weedy bays and backwater areas of the St. Lawrence River system and suburban lakes; pike remain active through fall.

  Use larger lures (spinnerbaits, gliders) to match the baitfish pike are chasing. Early morning and overcast conditions (like Sept. 9–10) are ideal.

  Caution: Pike regulations vary; consult Québec Sport Fishing for current season status and limits.

• Yellow Perch

  Where: Shallow, weedy areas and drop-offs throughout the St. Lawrence River system; abundant and underrated.

  Small jigs or live minnows in 1–3 m (3–10 ft) of water produce steady action. Perch school heavily in fall and provide excellent eating.

  Caution: Generally abundant with generous limits, but always confirm current regulations.