Lac MacKay Fishing Guide, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Quebec

• Overview

  Lac MacKay lies within the bounds of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Quebec. Beyond the shoreline you have mixed forest. At 2 hectares it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. Our Abitibi-Témiscamingue list holds plenty of bigger water. Rouyn-Noranda sits 15 km from the bank. Greater Sudbury is the closest city, 233 km away. It sits well inside the county, so one set of rules covers it.

• Where to Fish on Lac MacKay

  Depth remains unrecorded, so treat the first session as a survey. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Survey and observation records for Abitibi-Témiscamingue include northern pike, yellow perch, walleye and white sucker. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. The shape of Lac MacKay decides where the fish sit.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 17°C and January about -16°C. Winter closes the water for a while, and the reopening is worth catching. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough early May. On average, early May opens the water and mid November closes it again. The middle of summer slows a little, with dawn and dusk carrying it. Lac MacKay runs to its own calendar within the local pattern.

• Tackle & Baits

  The access position is unclear from public sources. Mapping is blank for access, so scout the approach before committing the car. A wire trace and a big bright lure handle the pike; deep water asks for a heavier spoon. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Lac du Chat Sauvage at 2.1 km is the sensible second choice. Signs at Lac MacKay carry more weight than any list.