Blackfish Lake, Ontario: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  The Algoma end of Ontario holds Blackfish Lake. The country round it is boreal forest from end to end. The water covers around 2.13 sq km, which puts most of it out of reach from the bank. The shoreline runs about 14 km, so it pays to pick a stretch and stay with it. On our Algoma list it sits near the top for size. Wawa lies 55 km from the water. Chapleau lies 67 km off, Hornepayne another 121 km. It sits well inside its county, with no border complications.

• Where to Fish on Blackfish Lake

  No published figure covers depth, so learn it as you fish. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. Fish documented in Algoma include walleye, northern pike, Iowa darter, yellow perch and white sucker. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. Anyone new to Blackfish Lake should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-term averages put July at about 16°C and January near -16°C. Long winters and short summers set the pattern. Ice fishing carries the winter, and the water opens about early May. Break-up sits around early May on average, with the water closing again about mid November. Late spring and early autumn carry the year between them. That is the shape of the year on Blackfish Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. It formed naturally, so levels move with rainfall rather than with a gate. Public mapping records no formal access here, so plan for a walk and soft ground. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. Failing this one, try Murray Lake, 3.1 km away. Check the current arrangement for Blackfish Lake.