Paisley Lake Fishing Guide, Stony Rapids, Saskatchewan

• Overview

  In Saskatchewan, Paisley Lake belongs to Stony Rapids. It stands 337 metres above sea level. At some 1.60 sq km it is far too large to cover on foot in a day. Around 17 km of bank, which is a long day on foot. Some 392 km away sits Fort Smith, the nearest settlement. Saskatoon is the closest city, 805 km away. Also worth knowing: Square Lake sits 13 km out, Machete Lake after 14 km, Wolverine Lake sits 14 km out, Maxmen Lake after 16 km and Black Lake sits 18 km out. No border sits close enough to matter.

• Where to Fish on Paisley Lake

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. County-wide records name cisco, northern pike, round whitefish, lake chub and slimy sculpin. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. Anyone new to Paisley Lake should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The year swings from about -26°C in January to roughly 15°C in July. This far north the hard season runs and runs. Count the season from break-up, usually mid May. On average, mid May opens the water and late October closes it again. The strong weeks are the first after break-up and the last before the freeze. Plan any trip to Paisley Lake around it.

• Tackle & Baits

  We have no record of the rules that apply on this bank. It formed naturally, so levels move with rainfall rather than with a gate. Nothing built is recorded close to the bank here. Pike mean a wire trace, no exceptions; big spoons and jerkbaits do the searching. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Where the way in crosses private ground, ask first. Square Lake sits 13 km off and takes the overflow. Nothing on Paisley Lake should be assumed from this page alone.