Matson Lake Fishing in Northumberland County, Ontario

• Overview

  Matson Lake lies within the bounds of Northumberland County, Ontario. Beyond the shoreline you have rolling bush. This is a pocket water of some 2 hectares, and every part of it is reachable from the bank. Most waters listed here for Northumberland County are larger. Quinte West sits 13 km from the bank. Beyond it, Campbellford at 28 km and Belleville at 30 km. Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Matson Lake

  We hold no survey for this water; read the slope of the shoreline instead. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. County-wide records name rock bass, johnny darter, pumpkinseed, smallmouth bass and rainbow trout. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. At Matson Lake light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year July sits at 20°C and January at -7°C. Four clear seasons, with a proper winter at one end. The lid usually sets by midwinter and gives way around early April. The water is typically free of ice between early April and mid December. From the thaw to midsummer the fishing improves week by week. Plan around that when you fish Matson Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access is not recorded for this water. No built facilities appear in mapping around this water. For the bass here, soft plastics worked slow along cover and a spinnerbait for searching do most of the work. Where access is informal, keep it that way by behaving. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Failing this one, try Little Lake, 8.4 km away. Check the position at Matson Lake before loading the car.