Mississauga Salmon Run Returns to Credit River, Peaks in Early October

Thousands of salmon have left Lake Ontario and are swimming upstream through the Credit River in Mississauga for their annual fall migration, a journey the City of Mississauga calls one of its most remarkable wildlife events. The run typically begins in September, peaks in early October and continues through the fall, depending on weather and water conditions, according to the city.

The city published its guide to the run on Sept. 28, 2026. Salmon are guided by instinct back to the waters where they were hatched to lay their eggs, the city says.

Why the fish travel upstream

To give their eggs the best chance at survival, salmon travel upstream in search of still waters where they can dig a gravel nest, called a redd, and lay their eggs. The journey is long and challenging, requiring the fish to swim against strong currents and navigate obstacles along the way, according to the city.

The Credit River is home to three species of salmon. Chinook salmon can grow to about 100 centimetres in length and are the largest salmon in the river; the city says to look for their dark mouth and black gums. Atlantic salmon are the only salmon species native to Lake Ontario and can be identified by large black spots on their back and gill covers, along with a tail that has few or no spots. Coho salmon, introduced to the Great Lakes in the 1960s, are smaller than Chinook and can grow to about 75 centimetres; they have a white mouth line, a black tongue and sharp teeth.

Chinook salmon make one final journey upstream to spawn before completing their life cycle, while Atlantic salmon can survive spawning and return to the lake, according to the city.

Where to watch

The city names three viewing locations. Erindale Park, Mississauga's largest park, offers extensive trails through ravines and natural areas. Riverwood Park is a 150-acre urban oasis with accessible trails and excellent vantage points along the river, which forms the park's western boundary. Meadowvale Conservation Area, in the north end of the city, offers viewing from a pedestrian bridge overlooking the Credit River.

The city asks watchers to stay on trails, bridges and riverbanks to avoid disturbing the fish. "Just remember to watch respectfully and let the fish finish the race they've spent years preparing for," the city says.

Community ride on Oct. 3

The city will hold a free Salmon Run Community Ride on Oct. 3, 2026. The bike ride follows the Credit River and gives participants a chance to enjoy fall scenery while watching salmon migrate upstream. Riders can choose between eight kilometre and 16 kilometre routes, with the ride departing from the event's start location at Riv