Fishing Pup Lake in Parry Sound District, Ontario

• Overview

  Pup Lake lies within the bounds of Parry Sound District, Ontario. It lies 246 metres above sea level. It runs to roughly 11 hectares — big enough to hold fish away from the bank, small enough to learn. With about 2.0 km of edge, you can try several depths in one session. South River sits 44 km from here and is the nearest stop. The big place round here is Greater Sudbury, 107 km distant. There is no boundary nearby to worry about.

• Where to Fish on Pup Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Parry Sound District records list smallmouth bass, pumpkinseed, yellow perch and northern pike among the fish reported. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. At Pup Lake the water rewards a slow, careful approach.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Expect July to average close to 19°C, with January the cold end at about -11°C. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. Winter locks it down, and mid April brings it back. The water is typically free of ice between mid April and early December. Spring is short and heavy here; autumn is longer and steadier. Pup Lake fishes to that pattern most years.

• Tackle & Baits

  The rules here are undocumented as far as public sources go. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. Access points are not mapped for this water, which suits people who like quiet. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Take the rules with you rather than trusting memory. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. For a change of water, Little Hungry Lake is 1 km distant. For Pup Lake in particular, ask before you travel.