Lac Urcel in Abitibi-Témiscamingue: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Lac Urcel sits in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, out in Quebec. Elevation runs to 352 metres. At 9 hectares it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. Supplies mean a trip to Val-d'Or, 106 km off. The nearest city of size is Gatineau, 226 km away. Within a short run: Lac Fooz just 0.9 km, Lac du Paysan within 1 km, Lac Bismuth just 1.3 km, Lac du Biset within 1.4 km and Lac Virago just 1.6 km. No border sits close enough to matter.

• Where to Fish on Lac Urcel

  We hold no depth figure for this one. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Records held for Abitibi-Témiscamingue cover northern pike, yellow perch and walleye. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. At Lac Urcel light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 17°C and January about -16°C. The season turns properly here, and fish follow it closely. Look for the thaw near early May; the fishing lifts straight after. Climate averages put the opening at about early May and the closing near late November. From the thaw to midsummer the fishing improves week by week. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Lac Urcel.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public data does not answer the access question here. Access points are not mapped for this water, which suits people who like quiet. A wire trace and a big bright lure handle the pike; deep water asks for a heavier spoon. Check locally before you travel, because a wasted drive is a long one. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. For a change of water, Lac Fooz is 0.9 km distant. For Lac Urcel in particular, ask before you travel.