Fishing at Hassard Lake, Parry Sound District, Ontario

• Overview

  Hassard Lake is a Parry Sound District water, in Ontario. It sits in rolling bush. Surface area is around 19 hectares, which gives you real water without needing a boat. Huntsville is the closest place, 25 km off. The nearest city of size is Barrie, 134 km away. Within easy reach: Perry Lake at about 1.5 km, 2.6 km away is Perbeth Lake, Beaver Lake at about 2.7 km, 2.8 km away is Bevan Lake and Hog Lake at about 3.5 km. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Hassard Lake

  No published figure covers depth, so learn it as you fish. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Species logged across Parry Sound District include smallmouth bass, pumpkinseed, yellow perch, northern pike and rock bass. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. Hassard Lake gives up more to patience than to distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  On the long-term average, July reads 18°C and January reads -11°C. A full turn of seasons, with the strongest sport on either side of summer. Hard water holds through the cold months, breaking up near late April. The water is typically free of ice between late April and late November. Fishing peaks soon after break-up and again before the cold returns. It sets the rhythm of the year at Hassard Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. Parking is close: a car park sits 330 m from the bank. A pier or jetty stands 340 m away, which helps on a crowded bank. 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. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. Perry Lake sits 1.5 km off and takes the overflow. For Hassard Lake, the notice at the access point is the final word.