Stewart Lake Fishing Guide, Renfrew County, Ontario

• Overview

  In Ontario, Stewart Lake belongs to Renfrew County. It stands 360 metres above sea level. Small at around 6 hectares: two anglers spread out cover most of it. Bancroft at 30 km is the nearest place to stop. Eganville is 52 km and Cobden 71 km. Water in the same corner: Spring Lake out at 2.1 km, Beeches Lake at 2.3 km, Little Wanamaker Lake out at 2.5 km, Shanty Lake at 2.5 km and Little Black Lake out at 2.8 km. It sits near the edge of the county, so check which rules apply.

• Where to Fish on Stewart Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Species logged across Renfrew County include smallmouth bass, pumpkinseed, yellow perch and rock bass. What holds for the county may not hold for this water. On Stewart Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Averages move between -12°C in January and 18°C in July. Four clear seasons, with a proper winter at one end. Count on hard cover from midwinter, and open water from late April. On average, late April opens the water and early December closes it again. Look to early summer and the first cool weeks of autumn. At Stewart Lake the season follows that pattern closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access is not recorded for this water. Mapping records no facilities at all near this water. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. Failing this one, try Spring Lake, 2.1 km away. Where Stewart Lake is concerned, a local answer beats a written one.