Quinte Fishing

A Quinte 8 to 10 pounder (28+ incher) is likely a younger fish still, than many a Northern Ontario 4 to 5 (24+ incher) And mercury levels in both are likely close to the same, with the chances of higher levels actually going to the Northern fish. Eyes are hardly at all tested for other pollutants that trout species are, because their fats barely hold levels anywhere near what the trouts do. In other words, Lake Ontario walleyes (and one can check with the Guide to eating Ontario sportfish) have generally higher and safer consumption guidelines for larger fish overall.

Not saying keep big fish and do prefer smaller most myself, but saying that following MNR regulations, you can feel safe about eating the odd larger walleye over the 24.8. Each year, I end up taking one or two overs home simply because, A) they weren't likely going to release well, B) fish are food to me when and where allowed, as much as they are enjoyment, and C) a real thick, juicy fillet BBQ'd on a cedar plank then smothered with maple-garlic buttered baby scallops, is quite a healthy delicious meal.

I seem to run into enough small schools under 20 inches so I just take those to eat. I really am not a fan of the taste of anything much larger, or the larger fillets. That being said a 5 lb walleye out of the bay is a lot younger than 5 lbrs in most other waterbodies, so don't feel too bad if that's all ya got for the fryer that day.