Northeast and Algoma Fishing 2015 by Sean Simmons

Northeast & Algoma

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5206 Hwy 69 North 3595 Hwy 144 1066 Barrydowne Road 2259 Regent Street 200 McNabb Street 890 McKeown Avenue

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NORTHEAST AND ALGOMA REGION KEY MAP

ntario presents anglers with an almost overwhelming array of more than 400,000 lakes and waterways. The province’s northeastern region is a prominent part of that variety, its Canadian Shield lakes and cooler climate famous for metre-long, trophy-sized lake trout, northern pike and walleye as well as smallmouth and largemouth bass, muskie and whitefish.

rugged Lake Superior shoreline of Algoma country and the popular waters of Lake Huron, Georgian Bay and Manitoulin Island. Huge lake trout, monster pike and recordclass brook trout abound in the James Bay frontier. In Algoma country, walleye, pike, bass, pan fish and several trout species supply angling memories.Algonquin Provincial Park offers superb brook The Northeast Region’s boundaries and lake trout fishing. Air charters extend north to coastal beauty, wild offer fly-in fishing packages with rivers and wetlands of the James and hundreds of destinations, trophy Hudson Bay Lowlands, south to the lakes among them, from which to choose. NORTHEAST & ALGOMA REGION FISHING 2015 Publisher Sean Simmons Production Co-ordinator Kathy Buhler Contributors: Brad Beaucage,Tammy Laflamme, Charlie McDonald, Jim Masters, Alycia Mutual, Brian Ramakko, Daniel Soares, Gary Skrzek, Al Tourneau, Mike Youds. Sales: Kevin Dergez, Ashley Rae Advertising sales, printing and distribution managed by Glacier Media Inc. Northeast and Algoma Fishing 2015 is part of The Angler’s Atlas and is owned by Goldstream Publishing Inc. Suite 210 500 Victoria St. Prince George, BC, V2L 2J9 (250) 596-6277 mail@anglersatlas.com

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Marie area, while North Bay lakes are getting into muskie waters.

Enjoy them all. We hope you’re inspired to get out and explore, fish and take advantage of everything the region offers.

In wintertime, ice anglers from far and wide are drawn to North Bay and Lake Nipissing in pursuit of walleye, perch and whitefish. You can rent an ice bungalow to bring a little comfort to the experience.

Fly fish in Depot Lake for bass on warm summer evenings. Or spend a Saturday morning trolling around Ramsey Lake, and still be home for lunch. The waters around Sudbury are accessible and still offer great fishing.

The more adventurous Batchawana Bay is side-by-side with the pristine Big Basswood Lake in the Sault St.

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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s far as fishing spots go, Batchawana Bay has a little bit of everything, from bass and pike in the shallows, to lake trout in the deeper sections.

Jim Masters, from Canadian Tire in Sault Ste. Marie, says that the water depth in the bay drops off fairly quickly, This is one of the reasons why it is so good for lake trout, as they prefer to be in fairly deep water. You can get to the trout without having to

Page 5

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BATCHAWANA BAY go too far out, he says. Still, spring is the best time to go after the lake trout, when they come in closer to shore. Lots of feeder streams are also excellent locations for trout and salmon, and provide good spawning habitat. Masters notes that these are good places for pickerel, as well. “Go up the river,” he suggests, because, “there is great fishing for pickerel, bass and pike.” He notes that if the water level is up, the river can be a little rough, but if levels are normal, a canoe is sufficient for getting around.

One of Masters’ go-to lures for river fishing are gum-drop floaters with minnows or worms. In rivers, particularly, Masters suggests anchoring above the pools and casting out. Use bottom bouncers, he says, because you’re sure to get into the weeds, and this will help keep you from snagging. The fishery in Batchawana Bay is active all year-round, and Masters says that the perch fishery is particularly good for ice fishing. There are several places in town where you can rent the use of an ice hut, and Masters says it’s common to see the bay dotted with huts all winter long.

HUGE SELECTION OF FISHING SUPPLIES! 200 McNabb Street, Sault Ste. Marie 705-949-0770 Masters says there are several new products in stock that he’s anxious to try out. Stop into Canadian Tire and talk with Masters and the other Pro Shop staff about these and other tried-and-true lures for the area. LAKE ACCESS

here are several access points and boat launches around Batchawana Bay. The community and Batchawana Provincial Park are on the western side of the bay.

A public boat launch is located east of Batchawana Provincial Park near the mouth of the Batchawana River.

Caution: Do not navigational purposes. This mapSource may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario Caution: Do use not this use map this for map for navigational purposes. data provided by National Oceanichazards and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

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BIG BASSWOOD LAKE MaitlandFord.com

705-759-4545

ig Basswood Lake is very large, very deep, and produces very big fish.

Al Tourneau, from Maitland Ford, says that, “Big Basswood Lake is a pristine, crystal-clear lake like Lake Superior. You can see really far down, as far as 20 or 30 feet in a lot of places.”

1124 Great Northern Rd, Sault Ste. Marie “At o n e time, people used to plant smelts in the lake as baitfish for the lake trout,” Tourneau notes.

Big Basswood Lake is also known as Wakwekobi Lake. Add your photos, stories and more to The Angler’s Atlas page at anglersatlas.com/lake/102529. Posting to your favourite lakes could win you some big prizes! Contest runs until September, 2015. See The Angler’s Atlas for details.

As mentioned, lake trout are a slow-growing species, and the deep, cool waters of Big Basswood Lake suit them perfectly. They prey on whitefish, and the large population of whitefish also helps them to Tourneau prefers to target the thrive in Big Basswood Lake. whitefish rather than the lake trout, which are a slow-growing Swedish Pimples work for whitefish in both the open water LAKE ACCESS species. and the ice fishing seasons. Ice rom Sault Ste Marie, fol“People use Swedish Pimples, fishing is big here, which makes low the Trans Canada Hwy and sometimes Cleos,” he says. Big Basswood Lake a perfect (Hwy 17) east. The highway “You can use smelts,” he adds, year-round fishing spot. goes right past the lake. “but then you’re going after the lake trout.” Tourneau says that there are whitefish and lake trout in Big Basswood Lake. The fishing season opens on the third Saturday in April, and there is a limit of 25 whitefish.

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 2,707 Hectares (6,688 Acres) Maximum Depth • 73 metres (240 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 211 metres (691 feet) Survey Date • June 6 1966 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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anoeshed Lake, about 50 km from Timmins, Ont., is fed by the Grassy River and is considered moderately productive. Fishing can be good for northern pike and walleye. Canoeshed is a fairly shallow body with an average depth of two metres. The rich habitat is perfect for pike, which prefer grassy, weedy areas.

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CANOESHED LAKE Other sport fish species include lake whitefish, white sucker and yellow perch. Large yellow perch are caught in September and October.

fishing, as well as other activities such as canoeing. The circuit of lakes along the river is a popular canoe and kayak destination. Along with canoeing, the lakes circuit is known for its birdwatching opportunities.

Grassy River, which feeds the lake, is known for its excellent

Pike are known to be indiscriminate feeders. They prefer to lurk in cover, awaiting their prey, rather than chase their food opportunities. Cast your lure into the shallows and try a slow retrieve. The opposite can be said for walleye. While they tend to be a little slower to feed in the summer, they will tend to go after their prey when they are interested. In the spring, if the water is murky, brighter colours can be the ticket to lure them, though in the summer months when the water is clearer, more natural colours are often the way to go.

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Other popular lakes in the chain are Sinclair Lake and Halliday Lake. These are popular lakes in the summer months, and camping can fill up quickly. LAKE ACCESS

rom Timmins, Canoeshed Lake is about 68 km. south. Head south on Pine St., which also runs into Naybob Rd at many points, Good maps of the local roads are a definite asset. There are reports that there is a campsite on Canoeshed Lake about halfway up the western shore.

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 145 Hectares (358 Acres) Maximum Depth • 9 metres (30 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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DEPOT LAKE lake by boat. The lake is well suited to smaller boats, canoes and kayaks.

epot Lake, just south of the town of Elliot Lake, has been described as a perch and pike factory, but it’s also fished for its lake trout, rainbow trout, walleye, smallmouth bass and whitefish.

Bass fishing can be great in mid-summer. When other types of fish are slowing down and sluggish, bass are enjoying the heat. Soft plastics that imitate small prey are good lure choices.

Depot Lake is stocked with rainbow trout. Rainbow trout tend to be more active in the cooler weather, and spring and fall are ideal times. Brighter coloured lures can be good choices for rainbow trout. If you’re looking for fly fishing opportunities, good flies to try are leeches in the early season. Further on in the late spring and summer, various patterns can work, from Mayflies to Dragonfly nymphs.

There are shore fishing opportunities on Depot Lake, though it may be easier to explore the

The City of Elliot Lake maintains a public boat launch and dock on its eastern end along Hwy. 108 near the airport. The landing offers a picnic area and washrooms. Fishing activity picks up in the spring for rainbow trout when the stock migrates through en route to other lakes.

Depot Lake is also known for its spectacular summer sunsets. The lake is a part of a historic canoe route that is still popular with recreational boaters. Information on the route is available at the boat launch. LAKE ACCESS

rom Elliot Lake, Depot Lake is a short drive along Hwy 108. There are several accommodation options in the town of Elliot Lake.

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 185 Hectares (456 Acres) Maximum Depth • 18 metres (60 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 275 metres (901 feet) Survey Date • August 1975 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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FAIRBANK LAKE

These same shallow areas are also marked as hot spots on the Angler’s Atlas website. They can be perfect spots for bass, though they may be challenging to access.

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The Fairbank Lake page can be found at anglersatlas.com/ lake/102217.

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airbank Lake, often referred to as Fairbanks Lake, as clear as the subterranean springs that feed it, is a popular spot for anglers going after smallmouth bass and lake trout. The fish are generally on the small side in the 2- to 3-lb. range. Other sport fish species found in this lake include yellow perch, whitefish, northern pike and walleye, although the walleye fishing has declined in recent years.

Submerged logs dot the lake’s 30 km of shoreline, helping to provide LAKE ACCESS shade habitat for fish. This helps airbank Lake is located west to explain why Fairbank is so of Sudbury next to Fairbank productive for a wide diversity of Lake Provincial Park. From species. Sudbury, take either Hwy 17 or There are also several spots where 55 to Crean Hill Road, and then to boaters need to be careful. The Fairbank E. Rd. entrance to the bay in the north- Public boat launches and dock west is shallow. As well, parts can be found at the park. Fairbank along the island on the east side Lake Resort is open year round. are slow going, too.

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 702 Hectares (1,735 Acres) Maximum Depth • 45 metres (148 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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pring, summer and early fall, anglers are fishing for goodsized walleye in Five Mile Lake, a shallow lake about 10 km long, 40 km south of Chapleau.

All those walleye help to sustain a healthy pike fishery, too, though they’re generally small. Five Mile has plenty of offshore habitat such as shoals and dense weed beds favoured by pike. Pike are also a popular sport fish in backcountry lakes. They’re feisty and ready to take just about anything, but a spoon or a minnow under a jig head is often effective.

Smallmouth bass, known as the No. 1 fighting fish in northern Ontario, are caught in abundance in Five Mile Lake. Boat rentals and cottages are available at Five Mile Lake Lodge.

Walleye are plentiful in Five Mile Lake. The website for Five Mile Lake Lodge has several fishing tips for the walleye in the lake. Jigging is a standard method for catching walleye,

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and they suggest that pink, white LAKE ACCESS or chartreuse jig heads, tipped rom Chapleau, Five Mile with minnows or leeches are Lake is about 42 km south good combinations. along Hwy 129. Wenebegon When the walleye are feed- River Provincial Park edges the ing closer to shore, such as in lake along its northeastern shore. the spring, use a slow retrieve There are no facilities in the with brighter colours. Another park. It is a wilderness park, and good walleye combination is a visitors should be prepared for this. Go-Getter with a worm or leech.

Nearby Goldie Lake is even Five more productive due to its Mile Lake geological structure and Lodge is located just islands. Goldie Lake is also off the highway, and offers known for its lake trout, averaging in the four to 12-lb. range full amenities. Take a look at but with rumours of giants lurk- their website, at fivemilelake. ing in the depths. Try a pike lure com/index.htm. in the spring or fall when they feed along the shoreline. Being cold water fish, lake trout go © The Angler’s deep in midsummer and prove Atlas more of a challenge. Brook trout of two to four lbs. are caught in local feeder streams.

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QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 275 Hectares (680 Acres) Maximum Depth • 19 metres (62 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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“Longnose gar have become a favourite since I began chasing them in my kayak a couple years ago.” Visit SheLovesToFish.com to learn more about fishing this unqiue species.

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One of the largest lakes in the area, Gowganda is Z-shaped and features 60 km of shoreline. The lake’s bottom structure — consisting of several basins with an average depth of nine metres — makes the lake productive for a variety of species, including walleye, pike, perch, lake trout, bass and, to a lesser degree, whitefish. A rocky shoreline, shoals, drop-offs, weed beds and submerged islands also favour Gowganda a great angling destination.

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owganda Lake has long been known as a productive lake, its name an Ojibway word meaning “place of large pickerel.”

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your own, too, at anglersatlas.com/ lake/102244. Post between now and September, 2015, and you could win prizes! See details at anglersatlas.com/spotlight/706125. LAKE ACCESS

owganda Lake is located along Hwy. 560 west of Elk Lake adjacent to the small village of Gowganda, which lies Montreal River, a great stream at the northeast end of to fish for the pike and bass that the lake. lurk amid submerged logs, feeds into the lake from the southeast. Gowganda Lake Lodge You can catch walleye and pike offers full service amenities early in the season here. Bass from boats to a general store. season begins as soon as the ice Check out their website at gowgandalakelodge.com for is gone. more information. They are According to reports on The open year-round, and offer Angler’s Atlas, there is a hot fishing packages, as well as spot for walleye in the lower hunting and trail riding. curve of the lake. Check out all the map markers and add

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 1,046 Hectares (2,585 Acres) Maximum Depth • 45 metres (148 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 454 metres (1,488 feet) Survey Date • May 1973 Contour Units • Feet © The Angler’s Atlas

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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HALFWAY LAKE

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alfway Lake, northwest of Sudbury, is a popular destination for a variety of recreational pursuits, not the least of which is fishing for plentiful smallmouth bass. There are also northern pike of up to 12 lbs., walleye and lake trout here.

Early mornings are said to be most productive for northern pike. Pike tend to lie in wait for their prey, lurking amid cover of weeds. They are known to be indiscriminate feeders, and will strike at a variety of lures. Try casting towards the shallows and retrieve with a slight j e r k i n g motion.

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The lake trout are abundant but they go deep during the warmer months. Spring and fall are ideal fishing times for lake trout. Green and silver, or blue and silver, can be worthwhile colour combinations to try.

From Sudbury, follow Regional Road 35 to Hwy. 144 and continue north.

Surrounding lakes to the north of Halfway are often fished as well for smallmouth bass of 2-3 lbs.

The lake is a pretty spot, though a tornado and forest fire several years ago caused some forest damage.

LAKE ACCESS

rom the South, take Hwy. 400 then Hwy. 69 north to Sudbury. Hwy. 17 is an alternative route from the east or west.

Halfway Lake Provincial Park offers fully serviced camping, showers and a well-stocked store. There are designated swimming areas and lots of wildlife to experience. Backcountry camping is rated as outstanding and draws a lot of canoeists.

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 247 Hectares (610 Acres) Maximum Depth • 21 metres (70 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 411 metres (1,350 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

Northeast and Algoma Fishing 2015

angstone Lake, part of the Temagami River watershed southeast of Lake Temagami, is a popular spot for walleye, bass and pike despite its relatively remote location.

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HANGSTONE LAKE

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Page 14

Take a look at the Angler’s Atlas page for Hangstone Lake at: anglersatlas.com/lake/116464.

Members can post fishing tips, photos, videos, and of course, map markers. Add your own Long and narrow, the lake con- information to your favourite sists of two arms connected by lakes. Membership is free! a short narrows. Lake structure — a variety of rock formations, LAKE ACCESS

shoals, islands and drop-offs — provides productive fish habitat. A series of eight creeks feeding the lake also support this productivity. These streams attract pike and walleye, particularly in the spring. The lake has a maximum depth of 20 metres.

rom North Bay, take the Trans Canada Hwy north. Turn left onto Tonomo Lake Rd. There are several different backroads that connect here, so good, solid and The Angler’s Atlas page for directions maps are essential. Hangstone Lake has several map markers. Angler’s Atlas The nearby town member wiggler has noted that of Temagami is there is a good trolling spot right located on Hwy. around the island on the north 11, about a 4.5end. hour drive from Wiggler also notes that the south Toronto. end of the lake has a small beach -type of area that is decent for a boat launch. He warns boaters to be very careful going through the narrow channel.

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 338 Hectares (836 Acres) Maximum Depth • 18 metres (59 feet)

Hangstone Lake is located in Fisheries Management Zone 11.

Elevation (ASL) • 282 metres (925 feet) Survey Date • June 1975 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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IVANHOE LAKE

Ashley Rae

SheLovesToFish.com

vanhoe Lake, 45 km west of Chapleau in Algoma County, contains trophy-sized pike, walleye and jumbo perch along with abundant lake whitefish. Although situated in the Canadian Shield, Ivanhoe is distinct from most shield lakes in that it has a sandy bottom along with a rocky structure. This makes it a good lake for walleye, which range from two to six lbs. Fish up to 10 lbs. are caught and released, reports Red Pine Lodge. Try a deepdiving minnow crank bait, trolled in the middle of t h e

lake, about 25 feet down, or drift fish with a jig head and leech.

Ivanhoe is full of whitefish, which lurk in the deeper north end of the lake in the summer months. Pike feed on schools of whitefish in deeper areas of the lake.

Ivanhoe Provincial Park, which provides a boat launch and campground with 120 sites, borders part of the lake. The lake is fed on its south end by the Ivanhoe River, which offers good fishing for pike and walleye as well as whitefish. Many of the outlying kettle lakes are stocked with brook trout, but Ivanhoe is too warm for trout. LAKE ACCESS

ake Hwy. 101 for 105 km southwest of Timmins before turning south and driving 5 km to the lake. There is camping, showers, a day-use area, laundry, park store, boat launch and a visitor centre.

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QUICK FACTS Surface Area • Approx. 19 sq. km. Maximum Depth • 21 metres (70 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Northeast and Algoma Fishing 2015

Page 16

KESAGAMI LAKE

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t’s no exaggeration to describe Kesagami Lake as a northern pike hot spot, Ontario’s premier trophy pike lake. This large and remote lake lies entirely within Kesagami Provincial Park in the remote James Bay lowlands north of Cochrane, Ont.

The lake is accessible only by float plane and is within a few hundred kilometres of the Arctic Circle.

As Charlie McDonald, manager of Kesagami Wilderness Lodge notes, the lake holds the Canadian record for largest caught and released pike, a record that has been broken unofficially several times since it was set 20 years ago. The largest pike on record is 54 inches and lots have been caught bigger than 50 inches.

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than 400 fish in 2010.

McDonald also notes that the fishing season is short, just over 8 weeks long, so anglers should get there while they can. There are some great trip reports and photos on The Angler’s Atlas website. See anglersatlas.com/ lake/186139 for details. Add your own map markers, photos and videos, and you could even win prizes! Contest runs until September, 2015. See anglersatlas.com/spotlight/706125 for details.

Part of the reason for this is the LAKE ACCESS catch and release policy, and esagami Lake is a fly-in the single, barbless hook policy. lake. Kesagami Wilderness While not regulations, per se, Lodge is the only camp on the these things help to retain the lake, and has been featured in larger fish. many outdoor magazines. See Walleye fishing can be equally kesagami.com for information. rewarding. McDonald reports © The Angler’s Atlas that anglers can sometimes catch more than 100 fish a day. One pair set a daily record of more

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QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 17,120 Hectares (42,255 Acres) Maximum Depth • 8 metres (26 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • June 1984 Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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LA CLOCHE LAKE

here is lots of lake and wilderness to enjoy at La Cloche, set in the La Cloche Range, some of the oldest mountains in the world. The mountain range forms the lake, separating it from the North Channel of Georgian Bay on Lake Huron, and the minerals enrich the cool, clear water for fish.

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Cloche Lake recreational walleye fishery was closed in 2000 by the Ontario Ministry of LAKE Natural Resources and a morato- ACCESS rium on gill netting, imposed by rom the town of Massey, turn the Sagamok First Nation, has south at the traffic light. Turn Much of the shoreline remains been in place since 1997. left at the second street, River wilderness within a provincial Angler’s Atlas member Road and Cross the Spanish park with the exception of a few hazmat247 notes that the fish- River Bridge. Turn left onto Lee cottages and La Cloche Lake ing is good for pike and bass. See Valley Road. Turn right on the Camp. the report and add your own at first road, LaCloche Lake Road. Anglers generally fish for north- anglersatlas.com/lake/102300. Take every right-turn except ern pike, largemouth and small- Members who post photos, vid- Maahs Rd. and Steinke Rd. mouth bass and panfish. In addi- eos and map markers might win Approximately 10 km from tion, walleye have been recently some great prizes! See anglers- Massey, the road turns and leads restocked and lake trout were atlas.com for details. The con- to the lake. introduced. Be sure to check the test runs until September, 2015. regulations beforehand. The La

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QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 1,144 Hectares (2,827 Acres) Maximum Depth • 35 metres (114 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

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Page 18

LOW WATER LAKE

ow Water Lake is long, narrow, and relatively shallow. Bass, pickerel and pike are plentiful here.

Low Water Lake has several islands. That, and its varied shoreline, make for good fish habitat. Pike are generally fond of shallower water, as are bass. In the spring and summer, pickerel are more likely to be found closer to shore as well.

Tammy Laflamme, from Driving Forward, is an avid angler. She has spent many weekends at Low Water Lake and knows it well.

“From the boat launch, you have to go through two small channels to get to the better fishing,” she notes.

“There is a small island after the second channel, with a rock bed around it. There’s lots of great pickerel in this rock bed.”

Further down, Laflamme says that you’ll be more likely to find pike and bass. There’s also a good little beach just off on the left shore, which is perfect for a picnic. Laflamme suggests that anglers try grubs, worms and leeches as

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bait. She also says that go getters can work well, too.

If you’re in the market for a newto-you vehicle, stop in to see Tammy Laflamme and the staff at Driving Forward. LAKE ACCESS

o get to Low Water Lake, head north from Sudbury along Hwy 144. The lake is just off the highway, about ten minutes past Halfway Lake Provincial Park. There is a good boat launch, and beach areas with shore fishing opportunities available. The boat launch is located right off the highway, so is easily accessible.

The only camping available in the area is at Halfway Lake Provincial Park. There are campgrounds, beach and day-use areas, along with a visitor centre and several trails. Along with hiking trails in the park (which vary in intensity and difficulty level), the lakes in the area are known for their canoe circuits. Visit the park website for more information at ontarioparks.com/park/halfwaylake.

DrivingForward.com

705-222-USED

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • Approx. 11 sq. km. Maximum Depth • 13 metres (43 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Page 19

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

LAKE MANITOU L

ake Manitou, the largest lake on Mantoulin Island in northern Lake Huron at 104 sq. km, has the distinction of being the largest lake in the world on a freshwater island. There are more than 100 lakes on Manitoulin, making it a great destination for anglers.

Camp Mary Anne, on Lake Manitou, notes that they h a v e

Trout in the 2- to 6-lb. range are most commonly caught, but lakers can range up to the 20s and 30s.

Lake Manitou, with lots of other outlying lakes, offers excellent pike fishing. LAKE ACCESS

f you travel from the mainland, you will reach the Island by crossing the historic railway/ car swing bridge at Little Current. During the summer season, it opens every hour on the hour to allow boat traffic. Once you cross the bridge, follow Highway 540.

You’ll head somewhat southerly on Manitowaning Road towards Provincial Secondary Highway 540 (Meredith Street in Little Current). Turn left from Meredith Street onto Worthington Street and follow Highway 540. Highway 540 leads to Gore Bay, but you will not go that far. You follow Highway 540 westerly a distance of 29.6 km. At the intersection of Provincial Secondary Highway 551, turn left (south) along Highway 551, a distance of 6.8 km. Turn left onto Rockville Road and proceed easterly 2.6 km. At that point, Rockville Road veers to the left and you are at Camp Mary Anne Road. Proceed another .5 km and you will be at Camp Mary Anne.

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 10,460 Hectares (25,848 Acres) Maximum Depth • 49 metres (161 feet)

the best jumbo perch run in the lake, especially in September and October.

If you’re not there for the perch, you’ll be after the lake trout, which are stocked in the lake, or the bass, which are large.

Elevation (ASL) • 229 metres (750 feet) Survey Date • July 1975 © The Angler’s Atlas

Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

Northeast and Algoma Fishing 2015

Page 20

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

LAKE NIPISSING million annual to the provincial economy.

Walleye, smallmouth bass, muskellunge and northern pike are the main sport fish species. There are also pickerel, whitefish, yellow perch, burbot and cisco or lake herring to be had.

ast Lake Nipissing — meaning “big water” in Algonquin — is the gateway to northern Ontario, home to more than 40 different species of fish, which is reflected in the many fishing lodges that dot the shoreline. The lake has a surface area of 873 sq. km and is the third largest lake in the province, excluding the Great Lakes, yet it’s also a shallow lake with an average depth of only five metres. The City of North Bay lies on the lake’s northeastern shore. Nipissing is fishing central in Ontario. Fishing season begins in May and June with openings for muskie, walleye, pike and bass. Fishing activities in general contribute more than $60

marked up the map for Lake Nipissing with all sorts of hot spots, boat launches and more. Callander Bay, near North Bay at the southeastern end of the lake, is productive for

For walleye, try trolling worm h a r nesses with chartreuse blades. Try the mouth of the French River in the springt i m e .

Trolling along the shoreline is generally productive.

Romppais.ca walleye and smallmouth bass. Weed beds along the shore are a good spot. South Bay on the southeast side of the lake provides ideal habitat for walleye and muskie early in the season before they migrate to deeper water. It’s also popular for ice fishing for pike, perch and herring.

Stocking associations are engaged in attempts to manage the lake’s walleye population. Most reports indicated that ice fishing was good for walleye in winter 2015.

Angler’s Atlas members have

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Hundreds of huts can be scattered around the lake on a good winter’s day, although there were fewer this past season due to regulation changes. Check the guide before heading out.

Page 21

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

LAKE NIPISSING Smallmouth bass range up to 3-4 lbs. They are caught in Callender Bay, around the Manitou Islands, and on the north shore of West Bay. Angler’s Atlas members also note that the middle of the lake, and the southern

Now available at

shore, are all great spots.

Ice huts and bungalows are available for ice fishing in the winter.

Take a look at The Angler’s Atlas page for Lake Nipissing at anglersatlas.com/lake/102563. We welcome all sorts of contributions from stories to videos. Membership is free. While you’re there, check out the contest that’s running until September, 2015, for some great prizes!

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QUICK FACTS The western end of the lake is known for its king-sized muskies, averaging in the mid-30 inches but fish up to 50 inches have been caught. Muskie fishing is most popular in summer and fall. Some suggested spots are along the western shores of Cache Bay and South Bay, around Goose Island and Gull Rock.

LAKE ACCESS

Surface Area • Approx. 873 sq. km.

ake Nipissing is right on the edge of North Bay, and there are numerous access points and boat launches around the lake. The lake is about 350 km or a three- to four-hour drive from Toronto. There are plenty of lodges, cottages, resorts, guide services and campgrounds that dot the shore.

Maximum Depth • 52 metres (171 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 196 metres (643 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Page 22

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LAKE PANACHE PREMIER TACKLE DEALER IN NORTHERN ONTARIO 2345 Regent Street in Sudbury Ramakkos.com

outhwest of Sudbury, Lake Panache (also known as Panage), is deep — up to 60 metres — rocky and cold, all of which make for productive waters for lake trout as well as pike, smallmouth bass, yellow perch and whitefish. Primarily, the lake’s reputation rests with its walleye fishing.

mouth bass. They’re all over the lake. Look for shoals and structure, and they’ll be there. Start at the top of the water, then go deeper and work your way down,” he suggests. The

lake

Surface Area • 8,959 Hectares (22,138 Acres) Maximum Depth • 56 metres (184 feet) Contour Units • Feet

as it is in the rest of the lake. Walleye prefer that. There is a lot of structure there, and a lot of feed, and the walleye do really well in that part of the lake.”

Walleye were stocked in Lake trout fishery Panache some time ago, and is good the fishery has taken off. “Jig off a shoal, and the lake

here, too. Ramakko suggests that in the spring, they’ll be in the shallower water, and will be feeding on minnows.

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“For lake trout, go deeper in the summer. Find the deep holes. Brian Ramakko, from Using a downrigger is a good Ramakko’s Source for idea, or even a bottom bouncer Adventure, says that in general, is good,” he advises. Lake Panache is clear water. The walleye fishery is really “Panage is this amazing body of interesting here, Ramakko says. water, it’s like five lakes in one. “For some reason, the walleye You can get lost there. It’s very tend to hang out in the west end deep as well,” he notes. of the lake. It’s shallower there, “Most people go for the small- and the water isn’t quite as clear

will surprise you with how productive it is.”

Because Lake Panache is so clear, generally walleye will go deeper. “They have excellent night vision, and they spook easily in the light,” Ramakko notes. “When it’s windy, the water gets mixed around, it gets a little murkier, and bait fish go shallower. Walleye will follow the food.” For this reason, windy days, while not great for anglers, can be great for fishing walleye.

“It all depends on the weather and conditions,” says Ramakko, “and you need to vary your

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Page 23

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

LAKE PANACHE

technique according to condi- Ramakko says that along with tions. Figure out why the fish are the smallmouth, there are also where they are. Look for simil a r g e m o u t h bass in Lake lar conditions and try to replicate them.”

and lily pads. “They are there,” he says, “and when you find the lily pads, start at those spots and work out from there.”

Make sure to stop by Ramakko’s Source for Adventure and talk with Brian and the staff. All of the staff are anglers themselves, and are enthusiastic about talking to people. They love to answer questions, and will help out however they can LAKE ACCESS for all of your fishing rom Sudbury, Panache Lake needs. The store has is about 55 km south on been locally owned Hwy 55 / Hwy 10. for 31 years, There is a boat launch and a marina on the lake.

Stop by Ramakko’s to get the locations of boat launches.

As mentioned, bass are throughout the lake in great numbers. Most of the bass are smallmouth, and while they like the warmer, shallow water in the spring, they will go a little deeper in the summer.

and they stock the right gear for the local area.

Panache. Largemouth bass will tend to hang out in the shallower water. Ramakko suggests that anglers find the shallow bays

Visit anglersatlas.com/ lake/126134 to add your photos and stories, and you could win prizes! Contest runs until September, 2015.

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Over 80,000

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ierre Lake gets a thumb’s up from most anglers who venture there for its great walleye and northern pike fishing.

Pierre Lake is part of a group of lakes located in Little Abitibi Provincial Park

Page 24

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

PIERRE LAKE that drain into the Little Abitibi River. In addition to good fishing, the park offers a study in glacial geology with an array of eskers, kettles and moraines. There is a waterfall 26 metres high and an ancient stand of 300-year-old red pine. Icefishing for walleye is reported to be productive at the mouth of the river. Winter has the added appeal of being flyfree in the area made famous by the Wade Hemsworth folk-

song The Black Fly.

If you’ve got trip reports, photos or map markers to share, head to The Angler’s Atlas. Your efforts could win you prizes! See Pierre Lake at anglersatlas. com/lake/102405. LAKE ACCESS

hile there are no visitor facilities, there is camping, picnicking and swimming. Pierre Lake is located 66 km north of Cochrane. Take Hwy. 652, or a private forest road. There is also access by water through the Zinger Lake chain or the Abitibi River. Good maps are essential.

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QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 2,352 Hectares (5,812 Acres) Maximum Depth • 20 metres (66 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

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Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

QUIRKE LAKE MaitlandFord.com

ne of the largest of roughly 4,000 lakes in the vicinity of Elliot Lake, Quirke Lake is set in rugged terrain, a feature that also makes it a productive fish lake. Sport fish species include walleye, lake trout, brook trout, smallmouth bass, yellow perch and whitefish. The lake receives a fair amount of fishing pressure since it’s only a

15-minute drive north of the these shallow areas as well. town of Elliot Lake. Lake trout are deeper water fish, Quirke Lake has a varied shore- as are brook trout. As the sumline, ranging from rocky out- mer heats up, the trout move crops to weed beds and beaches. to deeper and cooler waters. This shoreline provides ample Walleye will generally head to habitat, and the varying depths cooler water as well, and will of the water are hospitable to tend to be more active during both bass and trout. low light conditions.

In particular, bass prefer to hang in areas that offer them cover, and in the spring, walleye will generally be found in

The most prominent landform along the lakeshore is Rooster Rock, an outcrop on the eastern shore of the southwest bay that features aboriginal pictographs.

LAKE ACCESS

rom Elliot Lake, Quirke Lake is a short half hour drive. Take Hwy 108 north for nearly 14 km. Turn right onto Panel Mine Rd and drive another 8 km.

Accommodations are available in Elliot Lake.

705-759-4545 1124 Great Northern Rd, Sault Ste. Marie

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 1,865 Hectares (4,608 Acres) Maximum Depth • 101 metres (330 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • 1961 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Brian Ramakko, from Ramakko’s Source for Adventure, says that there are pike, bass, walleye and perch in Ramsey Lake.

“There are so many shoals in Ramsey Lake, that almost anywhere, there are bass. There is a great population of smallmouth bass,” he emphasizes. “You do have to search for them. What they’re after all depends on the season. In the early season, off the shoals, I usually use crankbaits, sometimes body baits. In August, they’re all over, and I use surface baits then, too,” Ramakko suggests. “Cast towards the shore, yes, but also cast away from there. They

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RAMSEY LAKE

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amsey Lake is located right within the city of Sudbury. It supports a really good fishery, even in such an urban setting.

Page 26

may surprise you when they’re out in the cooler water,” he adds.

“For walleye, people go out really early, and then really late, even at night. There are lots of boats on the lake, and lots of activity, so the walleye for sure tend to come out more at night,” he notes.

“Try jigging minnows. Go to the bottom. Really make sure you’re touching the bottom, and drag it slowly,” says Ramakko.

With pike, he says that they really prefer the weed beds. “They want shallow water in the spring. Go deeper in the summer. Find the structure and go from there.”

“The quality of the pike fishery will surprise you,” he adds. “The pike are healthy, chunky, and they’ve got good colours, especially for a downtown lake.” Ramakko’s Source for Adventure has been in business for 31 years, locally owned. The staff are very knowledgeable, and keen to share. Stop by for all of your fishing needs and great advice. LAKE ACCESS

umerous points provide access to Ramsey Lake. The primary access point for Ramsey Lake is at the southwest side of the lake, near Science North, off Ramsey Lake Road. For more information about Ramsey, visit AnglersAtlas.com/ lake/186106.

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QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 874 Hectares (2,160 Acres) Maximum Depth • 21 metres (69 feet)

Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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705-949-0770 anger Lake, located about 70 km north of Sault Sainte Marie, is part of the Red Lake waterway, a chain including three lakes in all. The waterway is a mecca for sports fishing and canoeists alike. Jim Masters, from Canadian Tire in Sault Ste. Marie, says that

pickerel. Even the boardwalk right in town is a good fishing spot,” Masters suggests. “Anywhere you go within half an hour of town, you’ll find great fishing.

Masters is very enthusiastic about the fishing opportunities around Sault Ste. Marie. Close to Ranger Lake, the Garden River also offers excellent fishing. “That river is fly-fishing only, and it’s great for speckled trout,” Masters notes. “Then there’s Heart Lake for splake, and Ottertail Lake for

Masters says he’s excited about some of the new tackle recently arrived in store. “There’s something

an old fire tower. The annual fishing derby, the Red Lake Classic, takes place each summer and is set for Sept. 5-6, 2015.

Ranger Lake is great for lake trout and splake. Because the lake is so deep, lake trout are perfectly at home here.

Masters suggests that anglers try minnow fishing with a slow troll and a spinner. Lucky Strikes are popular, he says. Use heavier tackle to go deeper, he says. Masters notes that ice fishing on Ranger Lake is really good.

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

RANGER LAKE

200 McNabb Street, Sault Ste. Marie

Page 27

called an Impulse, which is a spinner with beads, a rubber worm with hooks, that will be great for pickerel fishing,” he suggests. Stop into the Canadian Tire store in Sault Ste. Marie and talk with Jim Masters and the staff in the pro shop for more information. The summer community of Ranger Lake lies along the south end of the lake off Hwy. 556 and is home to

Ranger Lake is known as part of a canoe circuit that includes Ranger Lake, Saymo, and Gong Lakes, among others. LAKE ACCESS

556.

anger Lake is northeast of Sault Ste. Marie along Hwy

There is a campground at the south end of the lake, and Rainbow Falls Inn is located nearby. There is also accommodation in Sault Ste. Marie.

HUGE SELECTION OF FISHING SUPPLIES! 200 McNabb Street, Sault Ste. Marie 705-949-0770

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 2,254 Hectares (5,570 Acres) Maximum Depth • 73 metres (240 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Page 28

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RESTOULE LAKE

onster muskies and plentiful bass — largemouth and smallmouth — are generally what anglers are after in Restoule Lake. Restoule Lake lies in the Almaguin Highlands of Parry Sound District. The walleye can be difficult to find unless you know where they are, in which case it can rule. More likely you will catch bass and muskies.

Angler’s Atlas member pilgerr has noted a hot spot on the Restoule Lake page. Just south of the large island near the southern side of the lake, is noted as a good spot for bass.

Directly across from that island, along the north shore, Angler’s Atlas member ShaneM has noted another good bass location right at the boat launch. He comments that there are, “lots of weeds and bait fish. Big bass feed here in the evening.” Bass are warm-water, weed-loving creatures. The best times to fish for bass are in the summers.

Walleye are more likely to be found at night, and during low light conditions. They feed at night, and are generally more active then. Other good times to try are on windy and cloudy days. While not the best conditions for anglers, the wind allows the walleye to conceal themselves more easily from both predators and prey.

markers. Sign up to follow your favourite lakes to get all the latest information. Membership is free. See anglersatlas.com for details about a great new contest!

Consult provincial regulations before fishing, because Restoule LAKE ACCESS has been closed as a fishing sancestoule Provincial tuary in recent springs. Park occupies the Popular with cottage-goers, north shore of the lake, Restoulle Lake is busier and which is located at the undergoes more angling pres- end of the road, the terminus sure than its neighbours. Stormy of Hwy. 534 near the town of and Clear Lakes contain pike and Restoule. Campgrounds are availmuskie. Bass Lake is accessible able at Bells Point, Putts Point, and via a portage and the end of Clear. Kettle Point. There is vehicle, RV, Take a look at The Angler’s Atlas walk-in and backcountry camping page for Restoule Lake at anglers- with a network of trails. atlas.com/lake/102430. Members can post photos, stories and map

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 1,237 Hectares (3,057 Acres) Maximum Depth • 27 metres (89 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Page 29

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Ontario Fishing!

ST. ANTHONY LAKE SheLovesToFish.com

t. Anthony Lake is a great green and silver, and blue and year-round producer just silver. Try medium-sized lures, southeast of Kirkland Lake. and aim for deeper areas in the St. Anthony Lake has a reputa- heat of the summer. tion for producing good catches of small lake trout in summer and winter, while its northern end with abundant aquatic growth, is a favourite spot for pike. Lake trout can be targetted with colour combinations such a s

Pike prefer the shallow areas. Large lures and sturdier gear are warranted for pike, not only when you’re fishing in the weeds, but also because of their razor-sharp teeth.

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The nearby Blanche River and its tributary Larder River offer good walleye, smallmouth bass and brook trout fishing. Keep in mind that the sturgeon fishery in these rivers is closed year-round. LAKE ACCESS

t. Anthony Lake is an easy 60 km southeast of Kirkland Lake, east of Hwy. 624 and approximately 16 km south of Larder Lake, not far from Larder River Provincial Park and the community of Larder River.. It is accessible via Hwy. 624 south from Larder Lake. There are several accommodation options in the area, ranging from campgrounds to motels.

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Supplies, tackle and bait are available at Larder Lake or nearby Englehart.

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 489 Hectares (1,208 Acres) Maximum Depth • 30 metres (100 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 305 metres (1,000 feet) Survey Date • July 1969 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Page 30

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

ST. MARYS RIVER

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he St. Marys River in Sault Ste. Marie is a world-class salmon and steelhead river. For fly fishers, the St. Marys River Rapids is the premier place to go.

Andrew Kovala from Maitland Ford has spent the past several years getting to know the river and the fly fishing opportunities. An avid angler and fly-tier, Kovala loves the St. Marys River for its combination of easy access, excellent fishing, and the lack of fishing pressure. “We do most of our fly fishing in the rapids. We do fish from boats downstream of that, but we wade in the rapids.... Wading is extremely dangerous. I like the rapids because you can go fishing in places that not many people want to go to. But once you know the rocks and pathways, you can wade the entire thing.” Kovala notes again that it’s very dangerous, and there are a lot of deep pools over your head.

work, and small flies are best.

In the main part of the river, Kovala says that there are walleye, and that Classic fly pattern “The Lion” lots of people love to fish for walleye in different parts of the river. K o v a l a loves the fishing opportunities around the Sault. “Lots of the lakes around the Sault are very limited in their access, with zero camps or anything. There are lots of lakes full of smaller lake trout and really big speckled trout, up to 6 pounds. I catch them on the fly in the spring,” he adds.

perfect time. You could be the only person on the river a lot of the time. That doesn’t necessarily increase tied by Andrew Kovala your chances of catching fish; they’re untouched rivers and they aren’t stocked.”

RIVER ACCESS

t. Marys River Rapids are right in Sault Ste. Marie and accessible only from the Canadian side. Access is through a series of trails on Whitefish Island (see inset map below). Please remember that the rapids can be swift and should only be accessed by seasoned river anglers.

“Lots around the Sault is unspoiled, and you just have to go and do some exploring and discovery for yourself. That’s what’s fun about it.”

“Up here, there are smaller runs, and you have to hit them at the

In the rapids, you can fish for Atlantic salmon, big rainbow trout, pink salmon and chinook.

“Atlantic salmon are in the rapids when the water is warm, and they’re absolutely perfect for big, two-handed fly rods. You fish full-floating lines and small flies. You swing them like bug imitations, right onto the sufrace of the water.” Kovala says that lots of different patterns will Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Talon Lake, or Lake Talon, as it’s also known, supports a great variety of sportfish, from large- and smallmouth bass, to muskie, walleye and lake trout. It’s a popular lake, and rightfully so, as the fishing can be very good.

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alon Lake, near North Bay, is part of the historic Nipissing Voyageur Passageway, a trade route of the early fur traders, and another summer cottage destination.

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

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Lake trout are stocked in Talon Rosco49 has posted the locations of several rocky hazards, Lake. Members of the Angler’s Atlas particularly in the north end of the have posted several markers for lake, right around the public boat Talon Lake, along with some great launch. fishing reports.

Member Merc0750 notes that there is a hot spot right out from the Provincial Park on the southern shore. He notes that he likes to use, “senko style worms either wacky rigged or texas rigged. Try the shorelines along grasswells,” he adds.

Take a look at the Talon Lake page at anglersatlas.com/lake/102493. Membership is free, and you can sign up to follow your favourite lakes. Get all the latest information on your best fishing spots, and hear about the new contest!

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LAKE ACCESS

o get to Talon Lake, take Member Chaddow reports that he Hwy. 17 east of North Bay had good luck in the early season and follow Talon Lake Road for with a silver and blue combina- three km. tion. He landed a large lake trout Mattawa River Provincial Park with his hand-made spoon. hugs the western shore of the lake. As well, Talon Lake Campground and Marina lies along the southern arm. Several other campgrounds and parks are available in the Talon Lake area.

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 1,404 Hectares (3,469 Acres) Maximum Depth • 60 metres (197 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown

Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

Big Rideau Lake

CATCH OF THE DAY Beautiful lake trout, plentiful bass in season. Boat launch and docking facilities available on site.

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You can fish for pike and bass from shore at Thistle, but a boat is recommended. Try trolling a spoon near the shallows by the dam. The south side of the big

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The Marten and Temagami Rivers flow into Island Lake, and together form the Temagami River flowing out. The fishing near the rivers can be spectacular, particularly in the spring and fall. Island Lake Lodge reports on their website that evenings are the best times for walleye. Fishing in the rivers can be an adventure itself.

Fi n d > D o

histle Lake, more commonly known as Island Lake, is another fishing destination that owes its productivity to its structure with an abundance of islands. Naturally, it’s an angling hot spot that offers walleye, pike, perch and smallmouth bass.

THISTLE (ISLAND) LAKE

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

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Page 32

Northeast and Algoma Fishing 2015

island in the centre of the lake is also recommended.

mer, a jig dragged slowly across the bottom can entice a walleye strike. Check out his tips at wallThe several islands in Island Lake eyeheaven.com/walleyetips.htm. are great walleye habitat. Gary Island Lake Camp, which has Skrzek, from Walleye operated at the lake since the Heaven, notes that in 1940s, encourages guests to folthe spring and summer, low a catch-and-release policy rocky points around — keep no bass or walleye over islands are ideal plac16 inches and no northern pike es for walleye. He more than 24 says that even in the inches. heat of the sum-

LAKE ACCESS

rom North Bay, take Hwy 17 west to West Nippissing. Turn north onto Hwy 64. Talon Lake is about 80 km from North Bay.

Island Lake Camp is located at Thistle Lake, offering cottages, boats and bait. Take a look at their website at islandlakecamp.com.

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 242 Hectares (598 Acres) Maximum Depth • 18 metres (59 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 274 metres (899 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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Northeast and Algoma Fishing 2015

Page 33

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

TROUT LAKE

o Bl

Ashley Rae

h e source of the Mattawa River and part of the voyageur fur-trade route, Trout Lake has a well-deserved reputation for smallmouth and largemouth bass, decent-sized muskie, pike and, as its name proclaims, lake trout fishing. There are also walleye in the lake. Trout Lake is very clear. There are several rocky areas that are ideal for bass and muskie. Muskie, pike and bass are all more fond of shallow water than deep, and all will prefer cover of some sort, from rocks to weeds.

to be caught at night, or in low light and windy conditions. Jigging remains one of the most popular methods for catching walleye. Try night crawlers and minnows as bait.

SheLovesToFish.com Monktonite and fhamelin have reported bass hot spots along the western end of the lake. As well, Airman11 reports a rocky area in the eastern end. See all of the map markers on the Trout Lake page at anglersatlas.com/lake/102509. While you’re there, post your own photos and stories. Membership is free.

Trout Lake is ideal lake trout habitat. The deep, cool water allows them to get down to the temperatures they prefer in the heat of the summer. Try natural colours with silver for your lures. LAKE ACCESS The lake is a fish sanctuary, rout Lake is located along closed from May 15-July 31 to Hwy. 17, five km east of protect the stocks. Rehabilitation North Bay. There is public boat efforts have helped bring back launch at the western end of an Atlantic salmon population. Delaney Bay (northwest end of Be sure to consult the regula- the lake) on Lakeside Road. Free tions for specifics. parking is across the street. You

Walleye, as well, will be found in the shallows, at least in the spring. While the water in Trout Lake may be more clear than walleye prefer, try fishing around the river / stream mouths. Later Members of The Angler’s Atlas can access Lakeside Road from in the summer, when they’re in have posted several map mark- Hwy 63/Trout Lake Road. the lake, they are more likely ers for Trout Lake. Members

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 1,673 Hectares (4,135 Acres) Maximum Depth • 69 metres (227 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 213 metres (700 feet) Survey Date • June 1972 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

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KUKAGAMI

2921 Highway 17 Sudbury

GENERAL STORE 705-207-1971

bout 35 km northeast of Sudbury, Wanapitei Lake is a crater lake, a giant bowl 20 km in diameter, carved by a meteorite impact. The lake is surveyed at 360 feet deep, but local reports are that it is much, much deeper in places. Brad Beaucage, from Kukagami General Store, says that the

Page 34

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

WANAPITEI LAKE most productive areas will be in the shallower bays, and at the mouth of the North River. In the northeast corner, Bushy Bay, Portage Bay and Bowen Bay are decent places to start for bass and pickerel, as are the islands out from Johnson Road in the southeast.

that there are so many tackle possibilities that work, that sometimes it’s simply trial and error. Some hot sellers in his store are the Swedish Pimple and the Magic Bean. Both work well for jigging. “Lunkerhunt frogs are great for bass and pike,” he adds.

Beaucage notes

“Ice fishing is huge,” says Beaucage, “even more than summer fishing.” Part of the reason is that the lake is so big, that it can be difficult to fish, and challenging if the wind comes up. Stop by Kukagami General Store to stock up before you head out, and talk with B r a d Beaucage and the knowledgeable staff. LAKE ACCESS

anapitei Lake is located around the northeast corner of the Greater Sudbury area. There is a boat launch, pier and picnic area, and many spots along the lake provide good access.

Kukagami

General Store 2921 Highway 17

Sudbury

Fishing, Camping & More!

705-207-1971

QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 13,131 Hectares ( Acres)

Maximum Depth • 142 metres ( feet) Elevation (ASL) • 267 metres (876 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Ontario

KUKAGAMI GENERAL STORE 2921 Highway 17 Sudbury

705-207-1971 Fishing, camping & more!

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