Fishing at Lac Novelty, Laurentides, Quebec

• Overview

  Lac Novelty lies within the bounds of Laurentides, Quebec. Boreal forest runs right down to the water. At about 18 hectares, a day is enough to walk the shoreline properly. There is roughly 5.2 km of bank, more than one visit can cover properly. For supplies, Ferme-Neuve is 71 km out. Mont-Laurier follows at 85 km, then Saint-Boniface at 87 km. The nearest boundary is a fair way off.

• Where to Fish on Lac Novelty

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. County-wide records name pumpkinseed, smallmouth bass and yellow perch. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. Treat Lac Novelty as a water to read rather than to cover.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Average temperature peaks around 17°C in July and bottoms out near -17°C in January. A short, intense season is the rule this far north. Hard cover is dependable here; it goes around early May. Break-up sits around early May on average, with the water closing again about mid November. Right after break-up, and again as the nights sharpen, is when to go. That is the shape of the year on Lac Novelty.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. It formed naturally, so levels move with rainfall rather than with a gate. There is no mapped parking or launch close by, which usually means walking in. Some banks are open only from a marked point. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. Failing this one, try Lac Pensive, 1.7 km away. Where Lac Novelty is concerned, a local answer beats a written one.