Lac Yatiwanikaw in Nord-du-Québec: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Lac Yatiwanikaw falls in Nord-du-Québec, part of Quebec. Height above sea level is 223 metres. Surface area runs to roughly 1.38 sq km, so plan for one area rather than the whole. The shoreline runs about 20 km, so it pays to pick a stretch and stay with it. It is low-lying compared with other Quebec water we list. Chisasibi lies 213 km from the water. Further out sit Waskaganish (243 km) and Mistissini (315 km). No boundary runs near, so the local rules hold throughout.

• Where to Fish on Lac Yatiwanikaw

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. County-wide records name Arctic charr, brook trout, lake trout and lake whitefish. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. Read Lac Yatiwanikaw before you fish it and the day goes better.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 15°C and January about -21°C. The freeze holds for the better part of the year. The freeze runs deep into the year, with break-up near mid May. Climate averages put the opening at about mid May and the closing near early November. Fishing peaks soon after break-up and again before the cold returns. Plan any trip to Lac Yatiwanikaw around it.

• Tackle & Baits

  No access rule appears in what we hold. It formed naturally, so levels move with rainfall rather than with a gate. Mapping is blank for access, so scout the approach before committing the car. For the trout, small spinners and a box of nymphs cover both approaches. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. For a change of water, Lac Piyaw Awawapisut is 38 km distant. Rules at Lac Yatiwanikaw are worth checking on the day.