Your Guide to Fishing in Lake Nipissing

Lake Nipissing is a peaceful lake in northeastern Ontario. Hills and forests surround the water, giving all visitors a sense of serenity. The lake also has some of the best fishing in all of Canada. 

The chance to fish in Lake Nipissing is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people, but where do you start, and where can you fish? Here is some of the most valuable information you need to make the most of your time on the lake so that you can come back with more than just a story of your adventure.

Fishing Hot Spots on Lake Nipissing

Whether you want to catch a big one or want to relax with a rod in your hand and some sun on your face, these Lake Nipissing fishing hot spots are right up your alley:

North Shore

The most populated waterfront on Lake Nipissing is, without a doubt, the North Shore. The area features sandy flats, which hold water in the warm months and create an excellent environment for walleye, northern pike and perch.

The North Shore is also home to Nipissing First Nations, who have fished in this area for thousands of years. Today, this tradition continues alongside a rich ice-fishing culture.

Cache Bay/Sturgeon River

If you're looking for a place to fish that offers a little bit of everything, head over to Cache Bay and Sturgeon River. Lake Nipissing is known for its diversity of trophy-quality fish species and this area is no exception. This gorgeous water body teems with abundant northern pike and largemouth bass populations and boasts nursery habitats for other species, such as walleye. 

With a flourishing fish population and a host of trophy fish to be caught, what more could you want?

Callander Bay

A haven away from strong winds, Callander Bay's tucked-away eastern location has rapidly climbed the ranks of favorite Lake Nipissing fishing spots. The bay also serves as a spawning ground for perch, northern pike and muskies. Callander Bay is especially popular with bass tournaments and ice fishing enthusiasts who enjoy its rugged beauty and abundant aquatic life.

South Bay

The South Bay is peppered with islands, making it a great place to cast your line. Get started with a guided excursion or venture alone to catch early-season walleye and muskies. If you are looking for a challenge on your fishing trip, try catching the next world record-breaking muskie! Experts believe that South Bay might be the best place on Lake Nipissing to do so.

Different Fish Species You Can Find In Lake Nipissing

Lake Nipissing is one of Ontario's largest and most famous freshwater lakes. Located in the Canadian Shield, it is also known for its diverse ecosystem and beautiful scenery. With 40 species of fish, Lake Nipissing has something for everyone — from anglers looking for an exciting catch-and-release experience to those looking to reel in a wild dinner. The most popular types of fish in Lake Nipissing include:

• Walleye: Walleye can grow up to 80 centimeters long and weigh up to nine kilograms, although the current record-holding one weighed in at 13 kilograms. Walleye fishing is popular among fishermen because of their size, taste and texture, these prized fish offer a mild flavor and rich photo opportunity.
• Muskie: An impressive fish with a reputation for being the biggest in the lake, the muskies roam lake waters as top predators. For the best luck catching this fish of 10,000 casts, cast your line between August and November.
• Northern pike: If you're looking for a challenge and flavorful, flaky meat, head onto the water in search of the torpedo-shaped northern pike lurking in both shallow and deep waters.
• Smallmouth bass: Known for their pounding nature and delicate taste, which makes them perfect for beginner and experienced anglers alike, you can find smallmouth bass in abundance throughout the lake.
• Largemouth bass: The largemouth bass is known for its ability to fight like mad when reeled in, making it one of the most exciting catches around. An attainable species for beginners, this fish is a must-have for any angler's life list.

Ice Fishing on Lake Nipissing

If you want to try your hand at Lake Nipissing ice fishing, then you're in luck. This renowned lake consistently ranks as one of the top-rated places in Canada for the sport. Every year, fishermen worldwide flock to Lake Nipissing to hit the fish jackpot. Walleye, yellow perch, whitefish, cisco, burbot and northern pike are just some species you can find here.

Before journeying on the ice: 

• Get a sport or conservation license: The Ontario government requires all anglers to have a valid Ontario fishing license if they plan on catching fish in any of Ontario's water bodies, including Lake Nipissing. Different permissions enable you to reel extra quantities, so choose yours carefully!
• Bring the right equipment: Experienced anglers know to bring the appropriate fishing gear, warm clothing to keep dry, along with food and drink provisions.
• Check the forecast and dress warmly: The weather can change quickly in the winter months, so it's essential to keep an eye on it before heading out onto the lake.

Best Times of Year to Fish

The best time to fish on Lake Nipissing depends on what you'd like to catch. The four main fishing seasons range from:

• January-March: When the lake freezes, that means it is ice fishing season. You can spend hours with a hot cup of coffee and your favorite fishing pole, waiting for that one big bite. You can have success catching yellow perch and northern pike, among others.
• May-July: Spring brings the active signs of life to the lake, as walleye, smallmouth bass and northern pike begin their spawning runs.
• July-September: The summertime is perfect for getting a tan and swimming while fishing on Lake Nipissing. 
• October-November: Fall on Lake Nipissing is a thrilling time for fishermen. The water is still warm, but the walleye and muskellunge are hungry for a bite, making getting them on the line easier.

Enjoy Waterfront Camping at Sturgeon Falls KOA Holiday

At Sturgeon Falls KOA Holiday, we know you want to make lasting memories. That's why we offer a full-service campground with everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience near Lake Nipissing. Book your stay at our award-winning campground today for your fishing trip in Lake Nipissing.