For anyone that lives in Southern Ontario, Lake Nipissing is a great choice as a destination for a fishing trip. There are few other lakes in the province that can offer the variety of species, quality and size of fish it offers. There are several things that are an important part of the planning process when planning a fishing trip to Lake Nipissing.
Lake Nipissing is one of the most accessible lakes in all of Ontario. It is easily reached by major provincial highways from all directions. It is less than 4 hours from Ottawa via Hwy 17 and only about 3.5 hours from Toronto using Hwy 400 and 11. Lake Nipissing is also centrally located and makes a great comprise for groups whose members are spread across the province.
Lake Nipissing offers several quality fishing areas. The West Arm of the lake is popular but much farther from major city centers such as Ottawa and Toronto. The Callander Bay/South Shore/South Bay region offers the best combination of fishing and accommodations anywhere on the lake. Depending on which species of fish you prefer, there are several different locations that would best suit your needs. The island chain that leads from the main lake into South Bay is one of the best areas for catching Walleye (Pickerel) and Northern Pike. This stretch offers a nice variety of depth variation and lighting conditions that attract the Walleyes as well as a multitude of hiding places where the Pike will wait patiently for their unwitting prey.
There are upwards of forty different fishing resorts and lodges along the South Shore. Deciding among them can often be a difficult task. By examining a topographical map of the area, you should be able to determine which resorts are closest to the areas that look promising and start there. If you don’t have your own boat and need to rent one then you will need to make sure the fishing resort or lodge you are considering has boat rentals available. You should also make sure that the location you choose has other amenities such as a fire pit, BBQs, decks (screened-in if possible during certain times of year), as well as easy access and good docking and fish cleaning facilities.
It’s important to make sure that you bring fishing rods and tackle to suit your needs. Muskies and Northern Pike above 30lbs are routinely caught in Lake Nipissing and if you are looking to catch one of these monsters you will need the appropriate gear. Some popular lures include the Lundberg Custom Baits “Stalker” and the Bondy Lure Co. “Meal Ticket”.
The best fishing on Lake Nipissing is generally found in late May and early June and throughout September. During these times of year, the weather on Lake Nipissing can be extremely variable so it’s best to bring a variety of clothing options and make sure you have light, comfortable rain gear.
Whether you are looking for small, family fishing trip or going out with the boys to hunt a trophy Muskie, Lake Nipissing is your best fishing destination.
Source by Jason Broughton
