Fishing Canada's Rideau Lake Chain

My first visit to the area, Newboro Lake to be precise, was back in 1981. Making the plans and preparing all the gear was a monumental task to say the least. Everything was checked over and over to ensure that there would be no hang-ups or problems.
We studied for weeks in advance and gathered whatever information we could from any source we could find. It was also necessary to plan our driving route as well. This was before the Internet so a good old Rand McNally was our best friend.

The plan was that we would be camping near Mosquito Lake, well named I might say, and sleep in the back of my truck which had a aluminum cap on for protection from the weather and insects. We would cook outside on a grill and even enjoy a good old "Shore Lunch". In those days we were much younger and this seemed to be a first class arrangement!

Fishing from this base camp we could explore six different lakes without going through any locks. Other than Newboro Lake you can navigate to Clear, Indian, Benson, Mosquito and Loon Lakes.

Our many trips to the area have made it easy for us to get around without any navigational aids. First timers, however, should have a good lake map and keep track of where you are because it is easy to get lost among the many islands and coves. If you do take time to go through the locks you will be exposed to many more beautiful lakes with diversified fishing opportunities.

Here is a link for the Rideau Canal Lock System:
http://www.rideau-info.com/canal/map-waterway.html


Now that all went well but as the years went by things changed. I have returned almost every year since then.  As time went on my overnight accommodations changed from truck bed to a friends rustic cabin then friends house etc. During our trips we noticed that there were a two fishing lodges right on the lake and eventually we stayed at one or the other a few times. I have found that booking at any lodge makes your stay more memorable. Situated side by side, but offering different decors are "The Poplars" and "The Stirling" Lodge. I had stayed at the Poplars 3 or 4 times and the Stirling once before. This year, for my 3 day visit, reservations were made to stay again at The Stirling Lodge.

The Stirling Lodge http://www.stirlinglodge.com/ has accommodations that will meet any need. We choose the lakeside rooms that are situated, well, at lakeside and close to the docks.

The rates vary depending on your choice of rooms but include three meals each day and maid service. This is very common at most fishing lodges and is referred to as "The American Plan".

Our stay was comfortable, the food was great.

The rooms feature A/C and cable TV to make your nights relaxing. The Victorian atmosphere in the main lodge is intriguing.

There is a beautiful bar area and spacious pool room for those that care for a little evening entertainment.


Anyway, getting back to the fishing...

The waters here are clear and Bass, Pike and Panfish are plentiful for anglers of all ages. The lodges have boats of many configurations for daily rental.

Normally there are no crowds especially when you get off the main canal route that the pleasure boats use as they traverse the deeper channels and go through the lock systems.


The fishing can, at times, be challenging but with a little effort you can have a great time.

I'm not writing this to brag about big fish but just to share some information so that you too might plan and enjoy some time on the wonderful Rideau Lakes!


Again, thanks for reading ...


One Cast ... One Fish !