Here's what we're expecting for the weekend ahead.
Bass Fishing Continues to Shine
Bass remains our top recommendation this week. While the recent heat pushed many fish into deeper water during the middle of the day, the cooler temperatures have changed that pattern dramatically.
Over the past week we've already seen bass moving back onto shallow flats, shorelines, and weed edges to feed aggressively. During a recent trip to northern Georgian Bay, the difference was obvious. Fish that had been holding in 15–20 feet of water during the hottest stretch of summer were suddenly back in skinny water chasing topwater flies throughout the day.
If the cooler weather continues, expect excellent fishing in:
- Shallow rock flats
- Weed beds
- Shoreline structure
- Points and shoals
Cloud cover will only improve the bite, but even on sunny days you could still find plenty of fish near shallow water and coming onto flats to feed.
Top Flies This Week
Topwater fishing has been particularly productive.
Some of our favourites include:
- MFC Bombshell Poppers for aggressive surface takes.
- RIO PTO Poppers when fish are looking for a slightly softer presentation.
When fish aren't looking up, switch to:
- Baitfish patterns
- Leech patterns
- Moderate-sized streamers
Focus on covering water until you locate active fish, then slow down and thoroughly fish productive areas.
Trout Opportunities Are Returning—With Caution
One of the biggest stories this week is the return of limited trout fishing opportunities.
Several rivers have cooled significantly thanks to recent overnight temperatures and rainfall, bringing water temperatures back into a safe range for catch-and-release fishing.
That said, conditions remain highly variable.
Warmer weather is expected through the weekend, so every trout angler should carry a thermometer and monitor water temperatures carefully throughout the day.
As always:
- Fish only when water temperatures remain below 20°C (68°F).
- Stop fishing immediately if temperatures climb above that threshold.
If conditions remain suitable, late July and August can provide great trout fishing. Cool nights often stabilize water temperatures, while terrestrial insects become a major food source.
Terrestrial Season Is Here
Late summer is one of the most overlooked dry fly seasons of the year.
Rather than matching traditional aquatic hatches, trout often become focused on insects falling from streamside vegetation.
If you're planning to trout fish over the coming weeks, make sure your box includes:
Ant patterns
Grasshopper patterns
Beetles and other terrestrials
For subsurface fishing, think small and subtle.
Clear summer water means trout get an excellent look at your flies, so downsizing often makes all the difference.
Choose:
- Size 16–18 nymphs
- Natural colours
- Minimal flash
- Dark or muted beads
These simple adjustments consistently outfish larger, brighter patterns during midsummer conditions.
Musky, Pike, Carp and More
Warmwater opportunities remain exceptional beyond bass.
Musky fishing continues to be excellent, while pike, carp, gar and bowfin are all providing outstanding action throughout southern Ontario.
The recent cool-down should help keep many of these species feeding actively throughout the day, particularly in shallower water than we've seen during the hottest weeks of summer.
If you've been waiting for more comfortable weather to target these species, this weekend could be an excellent opportunity.
Final Thoughts
This weekend offers some of the most balanced fishing we've seen in weeks.
Bass fishing continues to be outstanding, with cooler weather pulling fish back into shallow water and creating excellent topwater opportunities. At the same time, some trout rivers are temporarily returning to safe temperatures, offering a chance to enjoy late-summer trout fishing—provided you're carefully monitoring water temperatures throughout the day.
Whether you're chasing bass on the surface, looking for musky, or hoping to sneak in a few hours of trout fishing, there's plenty to look forward to this weekend.
As always, if you're looking for advice on where to fish, what flies to use, or how to dial in your setup, stop by the shop or get in touch. We're always happy to help.
See you on the water!
Chris Krysciak
Shop Manager - Drift Outfitters
