Patton Lake, Manitoba: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  In Manitoba, Patton Lake belongs to Manitoba. It lies 371 metres above sea level. About 1.82 sq km, so local knowledge or a boat saves a lot of walking. With 8.8 km or so of shoreline, boat anglers cover ground the bank cannot. The closest town, Pelican Narrows, is 194 km away. It is 611 km to Saskatoon, the nearest city. The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Patton Lake

  Depth is unmeasured here, so let the shoreline guide you. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Patton Lake responds to conditions more than to tactics. Bait sits where the wind pushes it, and so do the fish.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Averages move between -25°C in January and 16°C in July. Everything is compressed into the middle of the year. Hard water holds through the cold months, breaking up near mid May. Expect the water usable from around mid May until roughly early November. Spring is short and heavy here; autumn is longer and steadier. On Patton Lake that shapes the whole year.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. It formed naturally, so levels move with rainfall rather than with a gate. Access is unmapped, which usually means a farm track and a walk. Check locally before you travel, because a wasted drive is a long one. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. If the gate is shut, Slush Lake at 5.2 km is the nearest alternative. Check the position on Patton Lake before loading the car.