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The Harbour Harvest Rules

Feb 15, 2026 *This is part of a special weekend – No fishing licence required  (www.ontariofamilyfishing.com)
  1. – Reference: https://www.ontario.ca/document/ontario-fishing-regulations-summary

The organizer may at any time change format if so required.

  1. Species allowed include all game fish in season such as Pike, Crappie, Sunfish, Walleye (Pickerel), Perch, and Catfish. Note however, that a Pike will likely win biggest fish, and the other two categories for 2026 are specific to Perch and Walleye.
  2. Max two holes allowed per participant.
  3. Only one line per hole
  4. “You must be within 60 meters at all times of any line or tip-up you are using when ice fishing and you must have a clear and unobstructed view of the lines being used at all times.  Any spring-loaded device which sets the hook for an angler may not be used”
  5. The Derby is scheduled between 9:00am and 2:30pm in the Harbour area of the Nepean Sailing Club in Ottawa, Ontario.
  6. Prizes for awards are determined by length.
  7. In the event of only one fish species caught (default largest fish), the other award(s) will be saved for the next event.
  8. Fish must be measured by tournament officials using the bump board to qualify.
  9. Anglers who land fish to register must hurry to the check station (there will be two sites marked with checkered flags).  Buckets, coolers, or bags will be available on site for transferring catch (or come prepared with your own). Only live fish from harbour caught within derby hours will qualify.
  10. Tournament officials will measure the total length (compressed tail) and determine the time the fish was caught. The fish will be released (or angler may choose to keep it for consumption if within ministry regulations).
  11.  Fishing holes/zones are on a first come, first served basis.  There will be plenty of holes and space for everyone.
  12.  No vehicles allowed in the tournament area except for officials.
  13.  Trophies and prize money will be awarded onsite only.
  14.  Dogs/pets must be tied
  15.  ALL PARTICIPANTS AND THEIR CHILDREN MUST STAY WITHIN BOUNDARY LINES (markers will be set up to identify boundary)  Boundaries will be set closer to the event as we do ice checks. At this point, we estimate the harbour markers in the ice will be the outer boundary.  

Liability Disclaimer: All efforts will be made to make this a safe and fun event. The ice will be checked and confirmed safe leading up to the event. Although injuries of any kind are rare with ice fishing, the most common way to get hurt would be slipping on the ice. Please use caution and wear appropriate footwear (winter boots) for the weather. Although not always needed, it is good to have ice cleats under your boots. We will not be held responsible for any injuries.