Lac Maitre, Quebec: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  In Quebec, Lac Maitre belongs to Abitibi-Témiscamingue. The surface lies 365 metres up. At roughly 7 hectares, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. Start from Val-d'Or, 100 km down the road. It is 234 km to Gatineau, the nearest city. Round about: Lac Nentin within 0.4 km, Lac Theine near enough 1.4 km, Lac Amokuan within 1.7 km, Lac Cascadec near enough 1.9 km and Lac du Paumier within 1.9 km. No county line comes close, which keeps the paperwork simple.

• Where to Fish on Lac Maitre

  Depth went unrecorded, which puts the reading back on you. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Species logged across Abitibi-Témiscamingue include northern pike, yellow perch, walleye, white sucker and brown bullhead. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Take Lac Maitre a stretch at a time.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July runs about 17°C on average, January about -16°C. A hard winter is normal, and the thaw brings a strong few weeks. Winter locks it down, and early May brings it back. On average, early May opens the water and late November closes it again. Just after the ice goes and just before it returns, the fishing lifts. On Lac Maitre the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. Nothing built is recorded close to the bank here. A wire trace and a big bright lure handle the pike; deep water asks for a heavier spoon. Sort the permit out before you load the car. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Should this one be busy, Lac Nentin is 0.4 km off. For Lac Maitre in particular, ask before you travel.