The Harbour Harvest Rules

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

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

NEW EDITION with updates/clarification in blue below (made February 7, 2026)

  1. Species allowed include all game fish in season such as Pike, Crappie, Sunfish, Walleye (Pickerel), Perch, and Catfish.
  2. There are 3 categories A) Longest Fish, B) Longest Perch, C) Longest “Other Species”.
  3. Max two holes allowed per participant.
  4. Only one line per hole
  5. “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”
  6. The Derby is scheduled between 9:00 AM and 2:30 PM in and around the Harbour area of the Nepean Sailing Club in Ottawa, Ontario.
  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. All efforts will be made by all parties to minimize stress to the fish.
  9. Anglers who land fish to register must hurry to the check station (there will be two sites marked with checkered flags).  Pails should be available on site for transferring catch (or it is recommended you come prepared with your own). Only live fish from harbour caught within derby hours will qualify.
  10. Prizes for awards are determined by length.  Tournament officials will measure the total length (compressed tail) and determine the time the fish was caught. Any fish registered will be released
  11.  Fishing holes/zones are on a first come, first served basis.  There will be plenty of holes and space for everyone.  If a hole is not being used, it is available for someone else.
  12.  No vehicles allowed in the tournament area except for officials. Some exceptions for accessibility needs, but this area is not for cruising or street vehicles.
  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 (Pylons will be set up to identify the boundary)  Boundaries will be set closer to the event as we do ice checks. At this point, we estimate we can go just beyond the harbour buoys for 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.