Lake Nipigon

Species: Pike, Trout, Walleye/Pickerel, Whitefish

Location: Ontario

Surface area: 4,848 km²

Why we chose it:

In 2012, ranked #27 in all-time hot spots

The towering cliffs and green-black sand beaches of this almost 5,000-square-kilometre lake provide a backdrop as dramatic as the fishing. Long known for its oversized brookies, Nipigon has appeared six times in our pages as a lake trout hot spot. When trolling the numerous mid-lake shoals and islands, expect a good day to include numerous 20- and 30-pounders—even bigger fish are regularly landed. Another part of the appeal? Along with numerous resorts, guides and outfitters, Nipigon can be easily reached by car.

In 2008, Lake trout; Easy access to big lakers

When to fish: June through September.

Where to fish: Reefs in 35 to 75 feet of water near High Hill Harbour and Poplar Point.

Tip: Troll spoons or minnowbaits.

—Pete Bowman, Mike Miller & Angelo Viola, hosts of the Fish’n Canada Show