The Thames River in southwestern Ontario is an important tributary flowing into Lake St. Clair and is well known among local anglers for its spring walleye run. Stretching over 270 kilometers through communities such as London, Delaware, Chatham, and Thamesville, the river provides excellent habitat for migrating walleye moving upstream from the Lake St. Clair system to spawn.

Each spring, as water temperatures begin to rise, walleye migrate from Lake St. Clair into the Thames River, creating productive fishing opportunities for anglers targeting these fish along deeper holes, current seams, and gravel-bottom spawning areas.

Unlike many larger Great Lakes rivers that are primarily fished from boats, the Thames River is often fished from shore or while wading, making it accessible to anglers who prefer casting jigs from riverbanks, bridges, and shallow gravel bars. Anglers commonly cast upstream and allow their jig to drift naturally along the bottom where migrating walleye are holding.

The river’s moderate current and stained spring water often make jig and soft plastic combinations an effective presentation. Bright and contrasting colors can help fish locate baits in lower visibility conditions, while more natural baitfish colors often produce when the river clears.

Popular areas for targeting the Thames River walleye run include sections around Delaware, Thamesville, and the Chatham area, where anglers focus on deeper river bends and structure that attract staging fish during the spawning migration.

The Thames River run typically occurs in early to mid-spring, depending on seasonal water temperatures and river flow. During peak migration, anglers can experience excellent fishing opportunities as walleye move upstream from Lake St. Clair.

Because of its accessibility, productive habitat, and connection to the Lake St. Clair fishery, the Thames River remains one of southwestern Ontario’s most popular rivers for spring walleye fishing.