Fishing PEI
Province Guide
Fishing PEI
Prince Edward Island is Canada's smallest province and one of its most underrated fishing destinations. Surrounded by the Northumberland Strait and the Gulf of St. Lawrence, PEI offers excellent shore fishing for striped bass, mackerel, and flounder — no boat required. Part of our Atlantic Canada Fishing Guide and Canada Fishing Hub.
Key Species to Target
PEI's most popular sport fish. Found in estuaries, river mouths, and along the coastline from May through October. Fish the incoming tide for best results.
Best Lures for Striped Bass →Schools move into PEI harbours and bays in summer. Easily caught from wharves and breakwaters on small jigs and spoons. Great for beginners and kids.
Winter and spring flounder are caught from shore in estuaries and sandy bays. A hi-lo rig with sandworms or clam strips is the standard setup.
Found in cold streams across the island. PEI has a good network of accessible trout streams. Small spoons and spinners work well in spring and early summer.
Best Lures for Trout →Where to Fish in PEI
Mackerel and striped bass accessible from the waterfront and nearby wharves. Easy access and good for beginners.
A productive striper river flowing through Charlottetown. Fish the tidal section on the incoming tide for best results.
Large sheltered bay on the north shore. Good for striped bass and mackerel. Multiple public access points around the bay.
Mackerel and striped bass from the waterfront. The causeway and nearby wharves are popular fishing spots in summer.
PEI has dozens of brook trout streams across all three counties. The Morell, Dunk, and Winter rivers are among the most productive.
Recommended Gear
Built for Atlantic Canada
Shop PEI Fishing Tackle
StickyLures casting spoons and hi-lo rigs are built for Maritime species and conditions — ready to fish straight out of the package.
Browse StickyLures Tackle →Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish can I catch in PEI?
PEI offers striped bass, mackerel, flounder, brook trout, and smelt. The warm Northumberland Strait waters make PEI one of the best shore fishing destinations in Atlantic Canada.
Do I need a fishing licence in PEI?
Yes. A valid PEI fishing licence is required for freshwater fishing. Saltwater species like mackerel do not require a licence for recreational fishing. Licences are available online through the PEI government website.
When is the best time to fish in PEI?
Striped bass are most active May through October. Mackerel arrive in harbours June through September. Brook trout season opens in April.
Can I fish from shore in PEI?
Absolutely — PEI is one of the best shore fishing provinces in Canada. Wharves, river mouths, and beaches all produce fish without a boat.
What is the best spot to fish in PEI?
The Hillsborough River in Charlottetown is a top striper spot. Malpeque Bay is excellent for mackerel and bass. Any working wharf in summer will have mackerel schools nearby.