Boating & Fishing
BOATING
Wildwood Reservoir is open from dawn until dusk during the operating season. All boaters use the reservoir at their own risk. Reservoir maps are available at the gatehouse and show the restricted areas. Please note; we do not permit personal watercraft on the reservoirs. Bow fishing is not permitted.
Safe boating regulations are in place to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all reservoir users. All boats in our reservoirs must abide by the UTRCA's regulations as well as those outlined in the Canadian Shipping Act. All boat operators must have a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Boats that do not meet safety requirements or do not abide by the restrictions will be denied access to the reservoir.
Please be aware that there is no fuel at the Wildwood Marina. Be prepared to visit the local GOCO (2 km) for your fuel needs.
Hundreds of boats are launched at Wildwood's ramp each year. Be prepared when your turn comes to either launch your boat or take it out of the water. The boat launch area has one lane for boats launching and another lane for boats coming out of the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any restrictions on boat sizes?
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We do not have any restrictions on boat sizes at this time.
Are personal watercraft such as Jet Ski , Sea-Doo or Jet Boards permitted?
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No, personal watercraft are not permitted.
Fishing-Wildwood is regulated by zone 16
The fishing is good at Wildwood Reservoir, from shore or from your boat. Find out what fish species you can catch - Thames Fish Guide for Wildwood
The Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations has information on licences, seasons and catch limits. The Thames River watershed is located in Fisheries Management Zone (FMZ) 16. The province's Ontario Fishing site has lots of information to check out.
The Guide to Eating Ontario Sport Fish provides information on consumption guidelines.
Protect our Fish! Help Prevent the Spread of VHS
Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) is an infectious fish disease that is in the Thames River. Boaters and anglers can help prevent the spread of this virus.
Fishing Licences
All Canadian citizens between ages 18 and 64 must posses a valid fishing licence. People not in this age group do not need a licence, but have all the rights and responsibilities of people with a licence. Residents from other provinces must have an Ontario Fishing Licence. Non Canadian residents need a non-resident licence. Canadian Disability Exemptions.
If you are a veteran or active Canadian Armed Forces member
Starting January 1, 2019, veterans and active members of the Canadian Armed Forces who reside in Ontario are able to enjoy free fishing across the province as a token of recognition for their service. In place of an Outdoors Card and recreational fishing licence, veterans and active members will be required to possess and carry one of the following pieces of identification to legally fish in Ontario:
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Canadian Forces Identification Card (NDI 20);
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Record of Service Card (NDI 75); or
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Canadian Armed Forces Veteran’s Service Card (NDI 75).
In accordance with other deemed licences, veterans and active members of the Canadian Armed Forces will need to follow the seasons, quotas and limits associated with a sport fishing licence.
For more information on this initiative, please contact the Natural Resources Information and Support Centre at 1-800-387-7011.
Don't have any fishing gear? We partner with OFAH's TackleShare program!
Don't forget to check out Ontario Family Fishing Events.