Fishing Skarott Lake in Kenora District, Ontario

• Overview

  Skarott Lake lies in Kenora District, Ontario. It stands 276 metres above sea level. This is sizeable water at about 3.14 sq km, and a boat opens up most of it. At about 11 km of edge, most people work one arm at a time. The closest town, Greenstone, is 184 km distant. Geraldton is 190 km away, with Longlac at 197 km. The nearest edge is a long way off, so local rules apply throughout.

• Where to Fish on Skarott Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. This is a lake, so the margins and the first drop matter most. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. Across Kenora District, recorded fish include northern pike, longnose sucker, white sucker and johnny darter. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. On Skarott Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 16°C, the coldest about -22°C. The window is narrow, and fish feed hard while it lasts. Break-up comes around early May, and the run that follows is short and strong. From about early May to around early November, expect open water on the long-run figures. Just after the ice goes and just before it returns, the fishing lifts. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Skarott Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether the bank is open is not something our records settle. It formed naturally, so levels move with rainfall rather than with a gate. Access points are not mapped for this water, which suits people who like quiet. A wire trace and a big bright lure handle the pike; deep water asks for a heavier spoon. Gates get locked out of season on water like this. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. If the gate is shut, Peninsular Lake at 10 km is the nearest alternative. Check the position at Skarott Lake before loading the car.