Smallmouth Bass Fishing on Ontario’s Grand River

Chasing Bronzebacks on Ontario’s Grand River

If you ask any seasoned angler in southern Ontario where to find the hardest-fighting fish in moving water, you’ll hear the same name again and again — the Grand River. Stretching from the highlands near Fergus all the way to Lake Erie, the Grand is one of the province’s most diverse and rewarding fisheries. Among its many species, none capture the hearts of anglers quite like the smallmouth bass. Known for their power, acrobatics, and sheer attitude, these “bronzebacks” are the true athletes of the river.

What makes the Grand River so special for smallmouth bass is the perfect blend of habitat. Its flow varies from fast, rocky riffles in the upper reaches to deep, slow runs and wide pools as it winds south. Each stretch offers something different — whether you’re wading knee-deep in a shaded gorge, casting from a canoe through glassy current, or working a bridge eddy with a topwater lure at sunrise. The combination of structure, current, and water clarity creates an environment where smallmouth thrive year after year.

For anglers, this means opportunity. In spring, when the water warms and bass move shallow, you’ll find them tight to rocks and gravel bars, feeding aggressively on crayfish and minnows. Summer brings steady action in deeper pools and current seams, where they wait to ambush prey. By fall, they’re heavier, stronger, and feeding up before winter — a prime time for those trophy-class fish every angler dreams about. The Grand’s healthy food supply and consistent flows support impressive populations of smallmouth that can reach the 3- to 5-pound range, with the occasional six-pounder turning up to surprise even the most experienced anglers.

Part of the charm of fishing the Grand is how accessible it is. There are countless access points, public parks, and conservation areas that make it easy to explore new sections of river. From the scenic stretches of Elora and West Montrose to the “Exceptional Waters” near Paris and Brantford, there’s something here for every style of fishing — whether you prefer fly rods, light spinning tackle, or even ultralight setups for extra fun. The river’s proximity to major towns also means bait and tackle are never far away, making it a perfect day-trip or weekend adventure.

Beyond the fishing itself, there’s a rhythm to the Grand that draws people back. Mornings are calm and quiet, with mist hanging over the water and the sound of bass breaking surface for mayflies. By afternoon, the sun filters through willows, and the water glows bronze — much like the fish that call it home. It’s more than just a place to catch bass; it’s a place to recharge, to challenge your skills, and to feel that connection between angler and river that never really fades.

If you’re chasing the thrill of wild, hard-fighting smallmouth in a truly beautiful setting, the Grand River is as good as it gets. Here are a few good places to get you started.

Top Grand River Hotspots

🎯 Fergus to West Montrose

Classic rocky riffles and deep runs — ideal for wading anglers.

• Baits: Tube jigs (green pumpkin), 3" grubs, small craw crankbaits
• Tips: Fish slow in early spring; target rocks and current seams in summer.
• Access: Elora Gorge Park and covered bridge area.

🎯 West Montrose to Paris

Long, slow runs with deep holes near bridges.

• Baits: Ned rigs, spinnerbaits, crayfish plastics
• Tips: Early morning and evening topwater bites can be explosive.

🎯 Paris to Brantford (“Exceptional Waters”)

GRCA-designated section with great access and healthy bass populations.

• Baits: Wacky-rigged worms, poppers, crankbaits
• Tips: Drift fish from canoe or kayak — use current breaks and eddies.

Seasonal Guide

• Spring: Work shallow rocky areas as the water warms. Jigs and craw imitations excel.
• Summer: Focus on current seams, bridge pilings, and shaded undercuts. Topwater at dawn or dusk.
• Fall: Bass move deeper — use jerkbaits and swimbaits along deeper ledges.

Where to Buy Bait Nearby

• Natural Sports (Kitchener) – excellent smallmouth tackle & live bait.
• Kingsway Sports (Guelph) – convenient for upper-river anglers.
• H & H Tackle (Brantford) – near the Exceptional Waters section.

Quick Tips for River Smallmouth

• Use 6–10 lb fluorocarbon for clearer water.
• Cast upstream and retrieve with the current.
• Match lure color to natural crayfish or baitfish hues.
• Keep moving — cover lots of water to find active fish.

Final Word

Few freshwater fish fight harder than a river smallmouth. With patience and the right presentation, you’ll find yourself hooked on the Grand River’s bronzebacks all season long.