August 8, 2025

Investment in new urban recreational fishery will support local tourism and jobs

THUNDER BAY — The Ontario government is investing $175,705 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to develop an urban recreational fishery on Current River in Thunder Bay. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, this funding is strengthening Northern Ontario’s tourism and fishing industries so they can create and sustain local jobs and stay competitive and resilient in the face of economic uncertainty from U.S. tariffs.

“Our government is making strategic investments in Northern Ontario to support local industries and help communities build more resilient and self-reliant economies that withstand whatever comes our way,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “This investment not only supports important tourism and fishing industries in Thunder Bay but also protects a key part of Northern Ontario’s ecosystem so residents and tourists from near and far can access fun, quality recreational activities for years to come.”

North Shore Steelhead Association (NSSA) is a non-profit membership-based organization dedicated to the preservation of the cold-water fishery within the rivers in Northwestern Ontario that flow into Lake Superior. The organization is using NOHFC funding to modify an existing concrete fish ladder located on the Current River and install two fish counting devices to support citizen science and the development of a new urban fishery within Thunder Bay. This will provide new educational and recreational fishing opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy.

“The NSSA is pleased to have received funding from the NOHFC,” said Frank Edgson, Project Manager at North Shore Steelhead Association. “Our association remains committed to the ongoing improvement of fish habitat in streams flowing into Lake Superior. This project on the Current River will, over time, open up many new miles of habitat for migratory fish, expand recreational angling opportunities above the dam and create opportunities to monitor fish population growth.”

“This investment is a win for conservation, community and the local economy,” said Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay – Atikokan. “By supporting the development of an urban recreational fishery, we’re creating new opportunities for tourism, education and outdoor recreation—while also protecting the natural heritage that makes Northwestern Ontario such a special place to live, work and visit.”

Announced in June 2025, the Ontario government is refocusing the NOHFC to prioritize investments that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of Northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s recently announced investment of an additional $30 million over the next three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.

Quick Facts

• Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across Northern Ontario.
• Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $939 million in 7,563 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.8 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 11,900 jobs.

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.