If there’s one place in North America where the words “drop your line anywhere” actually ring true, it’s the Thousand Islands. Stretching across 60+ miles of the magnificent St. Lawrence River, this region is a boater’s paradise and an angler’s dream — whether you’re a seasoned pro chasing trophy muskie or a first-timer hoping to reel in your first bass from the back of a pontoon boat.
Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time on the water.
The Fish Are Waiting (And There Are a Lot of Them)
The St. Lawrence River isn’t just scenic — it’s loaded. In 2019, Bassmaster Magazine named it the top bass fishing destination in the entire country, and it’s easy to see why. The river’s mix of rocky shoals, deep ledges, weedy bays, and sheltered islands creates the perfect habitat for an incredible variety of fish.
Here’s a quick look at what you might pull up:
- Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass — The stars of the show. Aggressive, plentiful, and a blast to catch on light tackle.
- Northern Pike — Head to the shallow, weedy bays in spring for some serious action.
- Muskie — The river’s legendary monsters, topping out at over 60 inches. Not for the faint of heart, but unforgettable if you land one.
- Walleye — Large and abundant, with the current New York state record — over 18 pounds — caught right here on the St. Lawrence.
- Yellow Perch & Panfish — Perfect for families and beginners, and honestly underrated. Rock bass, crappie, and bluegill are everywhere.
- Carp — The river is considered one of America’s top carp destinations, with 20-pound fish being common and 40-pounders very much a possibility.
And if you’re visiting in winter, don’t pack up the gear just yet — protected bays around Clayton, Alexandria Bay, and Wellesley Island offer fantastic ice fishing for perch and pike.
Boating the Islands: More Than Just Getting from A to B
Even if fishing isn’t your thing, getting out on the water here is an experience in itself. With 1,864 islands spread across the river, there’s always something new around the next bend — a hidden cove, a spectacular castle rising from an island, or a massive ocean tanker gliding silently through the shipping channel. (Yes, that really happens, and yes, it’s as cool as it sounds.)
Boaters of all kinds find their people here. Kayakers and canoeists love the calmer bays and channels between islands. Pontoon and fishing boat rentals are widely available for those who want a more relaxed day on the river. And if you’re trailering in your own boat, there are 12 state and municipal public boat launches throughout the region, plus dozens of private marinas offering full services.
A few towns to use as your home base:
- Alexandria Bay, NY — Often called the heart of the Thousand Islands, with plenty of marinas and easy river access.
- Clayton, NY — A charming riverside town with great launch options and a strong fishing community.
- Cape Vincent, NY — Positioned right at the mouth of the river where it flows out of Lake Ontario.
- Gananoque, ON — The Canadian gateway to the islands, with beautiful waterfront access.
Tips Before You Go
Get your license sorted. Fishing in the 1000 Islands requires a valid license from either New York State or the Province of Ontario, depending on which side of the border you’re fishing. Make sure you have the right one — or both if you’re planning to cross!
Consider a guide. If you’re new to the region or targeting a specific species, a local fishing charter is absolutely worth it. Local guides know exactly where the fish are hanging out and can put you on them fast. Several are based out of Alexandria Bay, Clayton, and other river towns.
Watch for big boats. The St. Lawrence is part of the Great Lakes Seaway, meaning large commercial vessels share the water. Keep navigational charts handy and stay aware of the shipping channel.
Check the weather. The river can kick up quickly, especially in afternoon thunderstorm season. A marine radio or fully charged phone is a must.
Ready to Hit the Water?
Whether you’re here for the fishing, the scenery, or just the simple joy of cruising between islands with a cold drink in hand, the 1000 Islands delivers. There really is no bad way to spend a day on the St. Lawrence River.
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