Rest Lake Fishing in Thunder Bay District, Ontario

• Overview

  In Ontario, Rest Lake falls inside Thunder Bay District. Height above sea level is 469 metres. With some 21 hectares of water, there is room for a boat but no need of one. About 3.7 km of bank, so nothing stays unexplored for long. It sits higher than most water we list in Ontario. Nearest place of any size is Lappe, 79 km away. Thunder Bay is the closest city, 98 km away. One jurisdiction covers this water end to end.

• Where to Fish on Rest Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Records held for Thunder Bay District cover cisco, blackfin cisco and rainbow smelt. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Rest Lake gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Expect July to average close to 17°C, with January the cold end at about -19°C. A hard winter is normal, and the thaw brings a strong few weeks. Hard water holds through the cold months, breaking up near early May. From about early May to around mid November, expect open water on the long-run figures. Right after break-up, and again as the nights sharpen, is when to go. On Rest Lake the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. The map shows no ramp or car park nearby, so this is a walk-in water. Keep the gear simple: light line, small hooks, split shot and a couple of proven lures. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Walnut Lake sits 2.7 km off and takes the overflow. Check the position on Rest Lake before loading the car.