Eagle Lake Ontario

[bucktail]

I am in the process of planning a trip to Eagle Lake this summer. was wondering who has fished it, if there are campgrounds, and if it can be safely fished using a lake map. Also if it is a good lake compared to other drivable lakes in Ontario.

[GEO]

We stayed at Andy Meyer's lodge last Sept. This part of the lake has an abundance of large walleyes and some exceptionally large muskies. Most of the guys were after muskies, but one guy did well down rigging for lake trout. The water is clear on this section of the lake and the bite can be tough--but I think the the potential is excellent. I thought Andy Meyers is a top notch resort for serious anglers. My guess is that the dark or stained water portion of the lake is probably better for consistent action, but doesn't have the same trophy potential. Hiring a guide would be a very good idea.

[MuskyBrian]

I fished Eagle and it was by far the toughest fishing in Canada I have ever experienced. I think from a Musky perspective, it has potential. Certain typical musky spots seemed to hold fish, but you definetely have to work your butt off for them. The size of the pike seems to be descent, but I was extremely unimpressed with the walleye fishing.

[RK]

hey Bucktail,

Quite a few places to camp up there. Look on the web for an organization called 'Ontario Sunset Country.' It's a resort association for the NW Ontario region, and has links to tons of camps and resorts.

As far as the fishing goes, I think Fishing Hotspots has an Eagle map, but I'm not positive.

Also, check out the Summer issue of Esox Angler, which will be out in a few weeks. Rob Manthei has an article in there about fishing Eagle during the summer that's pretty good. He spends a couple weeks on Eagle every year, and knows his stuff.

Cheers,
RK

[bucktail]

Thanks guys, hey RK have you personally fished Eagle, or do you know of any other NW ontario lakes that are do-it-yourself good muskie lakes, besides LOW and Crow. thanks.

[RK]

Hiya,
Yeah, I've been on Eagle a few times. It can be an awesome body of water, but it can also really humble you. Pretty much like any other Ontario trophy water in that regard I guess. Neat thing about Eagle is if you're willing to run around a little you can really see a variety of water types from gin clear 'trout water' in the west arm to real tannic stained Meso water down in Osborne Bay. It's like Lake of the Woods in that way, but ot as big and intimidating. (68k+ acres for Eagle, vs 1.3 million acre LoTws).

As far as other lakes in ON, there are literally hundreds with muskies in them. Trouble with a lot of them is there's limited info available about them. To figure out the deal onsome of the smaller ones, you have to do a little homework, and a little gueswork sometimes too. Start by looking in the Ontario fishing regs book (it's available online) to see which lakes have muskie regs, then talk to the Ontario MNR fisheries offices in the area (just call them up - they're almost invariably helpful and a delight to talk to) and ask about the lake. You'll usually get some good info. after that you need to get a map. 99% of the lakes don't have any depth maps. Best you can do is get a topo map of the area nad make your own as you fish. Sometimes you just have to take a flier on a lake and see what it's like. Done that a few times. Sometimes it's awesome, sometimes it's a disaster. It's always fun... just have a plan B in case the lake you pick is a bust...

I guess there's two ways to look at it. You can go explore a new lake, and (usually) find less pressure. sometimes it's great fishing. Or, you go to a more popular lake, knowing there will be more fishermen, but you also get a lot more info available, good maps, more options as to where to stay, etc.

If you are thinking about the Vermilion Bay/Eagle Area, one option is to stay at Blue Lake Provincial Park. It's a BEAUTIFUL campground, easy drive to Eagle, and several other small muskie lakes are in the area. Otherwise, pick a bigger lake, and when you get there, don't try to fish it all - pick a small area and learn it inside and out.

If I can help out, let me know...

Cheers,
RK

[Stratosman]

Going back to Eagle lake this year, we were there three years ago, then we decided to try somewhere else out, but the fishing never compared to Eagle. Caught a few muskies, saw plenty including the biggest I have ever seen. Lots of walleyes, couldnt' keep the northerns off your lure. Can't wait to get back there. Staying at Cedar Point, last time stayed at Eagle Lake Lodge.

If you get a good lake map this lake is easily fished, it does get pretty choppy however if there is any significant wind. Good thing is there are lots of places to get out of it.

Awesome lake, I doubt you'll be disappointed.

[MuskyBrian]

Bucktail I know of some other lakes that might be better suited for what you are looking for. I don't know about having the potential for size that exists on Eagle, but definetely a lot more action. Let me know if you need help...

[bucktail]

thanks for the great info fellas. brian I would be interested in any other options. so if you know of any smaller lakes that have muskies please let me know. It does sound like I will be able to handle Eagle just fine though. thanks again.

[TG]

I would stay in the West Arm of Eagle! That is the most beautiful section of lake there is, in my opinion. I've stayed at Cedar Point, and they are great people. The west arm has many lakes to walk into also.