Kars: The Crown Jewel of the Rideau River
The Rideau River holds endless fishing possibilities, and the stretch located at Kars is widely considered one of the premier destinations for fishing in Ottawa's best fishing spots. Running approximately 40 kilometres in length, this expansive reach of the river is bordered by the locks of Long Island to the north and Burritts Rapids to the south.
Kars is a quaint, angler-friendly town located just east of Highway 416 on Roger Stevens Drive. Its proximity to the highway makes it an easy commute for urban anglers looking for diverse structure and high catch rates.
Species in the Kars Reach
- • Muskellunge (Trophy Potential)
- • Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass
- • Walleye (Excellent Night Bite)
- • Northern Pike
- • Crappie, Perch & Bullhead
Largemouth Strategies
Largemouth enthusiasts will find every type of structure imaginable: docks, timber, lily pads, heavy "slop," and rock. Flipping jigs on heavy line, buzzbaits, and spinnerbaits are the tools of choice for extracting big bass from the thickest cover.
Chasing Trophy Muskellunge
Targeting Muskellunge throughout the Kars reach can lead to legendary photo-worthy moments. Fish exceeding 30 pounds are common, though they require patience and dedication.
Pro-Tip for Muskie:
While trolling large body baits or casting bucktails and jerkbaits are the standard for most, do not overlook large suckers—either alive or dead. Drifting live bait along deep weedlines or over river channel holes can often bag a wary giant that refuses artificials.
Shore Angling & Access
Shore anglers can find success from the cement ramp area or from within the local park. Night fishing for Walleye with minnows and slip-floats is a highly productive local tactic. In the spring, Crappie move into the shallow park areas and are best targeted with micro-tube jigs under floats.
Facilities & Regulations
Boaters have two options for launch: a high-quality cement ramp directly on the river and a gravel ramp located at the Kars Recreation Arena.
Parking Note: If you use the cement ramp, please be aware that vehicles and trailers must be moved and parked at the arena lot, which is a convenient five-minute walk away.
Anglers are reminded that as this is part of the Rideau system, fishing is prohibited within 10 metres of any lock station or approach wharf.