Fishing at Lac du Charriage, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Quebec

• Overview

  Abitibi-Témiscamingue in Quebec is where Lac du Charriage sits. It lies 343 metres above sea level. With some 21 hectares of water, there is room for a boat but no need of one. The closest town, Val-d'Or, is 86 km away. Further out sit Malartic (104 km) and Senneterre (106 km). Water in the same corner: Lac du Carpeau at 1 km, Lac Montgeon 1.7 km away, Lac Alcee at 2.9 km, Lac Bireme 3.5 km away and Lac de la Fouee at 3.9 km. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Lac du Charriage

  Nothing we hold settles how deep this runs. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Survey and observation records for Abitibi-Témiscamingue include northern pike, yellow perch and walleye. The county list is broader than any single water. Read Lac du Charriage for ten minutes before the first cast goes out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate normals give 17°C for July and -16°C for January. Spring and autumn carry the fishing; summer and winter test it. The lid usually sets by midwinter and gives way around early May. Ice clears near early May and comes back about late November in a typical year. September and October fish steadily right up to the freeze. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Lac du Charriage.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether you may fish here is not something records settle. Mapping records no facilities at all near this water. For the pike, wire up and throw larger lures along the weed edges. A landowner's word beats anything printed elsewhere. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Failing this one, try Lac du Carpeau, 1 km away. Check the position at Lac du Charriage before loading the car.