Port Hope Fish Ladder — Local services in Port Hope

Salmon are unique in their need to live in both the fresh water of rivers and streams, and salt water of the oceans, making them anadromous. This part of their life cycle makes for a spectacular event where large adult salmon swim against ankle deep streams and rapids. Up and over waterfalls to return to their original spawning grounds to mate and reproduce before their lives end.

During September you can see this annual event in Port Hope's River. One of the best locations to see the salmon run and to see them jumping out of the water is at the Port Hope conservation area's fish ladder. It is amazing seeing these large fish leaping into the air with the sole purpose to go back to the place they first started life.

Despite a small section dedicated for a fish ladder, I could not help but feel sorry for the hundreds of fish trying to get over the other parts of the high man made dam. Maybe they should enlarge the area of the fish ladder to at least half the width of the waterway to give the fish a chance and help ensure the survival of fish stock in the future.

I am also afraid by seeing hoards of people fishing in the streams catching whatever they can beyond their quotas, not respecting fishery catch and release requirements and some even trying to catch fish by snagging them or scooping fish directly with nets. These people set a bad example for fishermen who follow fish and game rules.

I believe that there should be more robust regulatory oversight and changes in regulation concerning catch limit restrictions and fewer licenses issued. That way salmon stock can thrive and we can all enjoy more salmon in the future

Update. I returned back to the river and fish ladder and still saw fish running up stream. Also saw fish carcasses floating down stream after the fish reproduced at the same location where they started their journey of life

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⭐️ 1/1009 — In My Opinion...

Port Hope? More like Port Nope 😬🚫

I came in expecting a peaceful small-town vibe, maybe some charm, scenic views, friendly locals… but what I got was the total opposite. It felt like time slowed down — and not in a good way. Everything closes early, the energy is low, and let’s just say, the "hospitality" isn’t exactly overflowing. 😐💤

Tried walking around downtown to explore, but it was like a ghost town — a few shops, not much life, and honestly, a little depressing. The food options? Limited and overpriced for what you get. Had one of the most forgettable meals of my life here. 🍽️😔

Also, parking is a pain, and if you’re not a local, you definitely feel like an outsider. Not a welcoming vibe at all. 😒

I get that some people might find the "quiet charm" appealing, but for me, it felt more like boredom dressed as a town. I was looking for a weekend escape… instead, I was counting the hours until I could leave. 😵‍💫

In my opinion, Port Hope has potential, but right now it’s more hype than hope.

#PortNope #DisappointedVisit #SmallTownStruggles #1StarReview #NotComingBack #InMyOpinion #MissedTheMark...

Limited free parking spaces in the lot at the site, which includes 2 portable toilets.

As of 2023.09.28, salmon and trout were reported running since early September. Great place to enjoy a "National Geographic" moment - hundreds of salmon & trout milling around the base of Corbett Dam, trying to jump into the fish ladder to continue upriver & spawn.

Driving tip: if you're driving south on County Rd 28 towards Port Hope, turn right at the 1st traffic lights south of Highway 401. The signs are confusing, as that street is Molson Street (a.k.a. County Rd 70), which turns into Jocelyn Street, as it continues west. Drive on Molson St. past the bridge over the Garanaska River to Cavan St., then turn right; continue north until you reach the parking lot...