Where to Fish for Late Fall Brook Trout Fishing in Ontario
Late Fall Brook Trout Fishing in Ontario: The Season’s Hidden Gem
Ah, late fall in Ontario. The leaves have mostly fallen, the air is crisp, and most anglers have packed up their gear for the season. But wait—before you stow away your fishing tackle, let me let you in on a secret. Late fall is one of the most underrated times for brook trout fishing in Ontario. Yes, you heard that right. Let’s dive into why this season is a hidden gem and how you can make the most of it.
Why Late Fall?
First things first, why even consider late fall for brook trout? Well, as the water temperatures drop, brook trout become more active, feeding aggressively to prepare for the winter. This makes them easier to locate and catch. Plus, you’ll likely have the waters all to yourself, offering a serene and uninterrupted fishing experience.
Where to Go
Ontario is a paradise for anglers, especially those targeting brook trout. But late fall calls for specific spots. Look for deeper waters where brook trout retreat as temperatures drop. Lakes with a mix of deep holes and shallow bays are ideal. The trout will often be found transitioning between these areas, searching for food.
Algoma Region: The lakes and rivers around Sault Ste. Marie are teeming with brook trout. Try your luck at Kabinakagami Lake, where the deep, cold waters are perfect for late fall fishing.
Algonquin Provincial Park: This iconic park offers remote backcountry fishing opportunities. Smoke Lake and Canisbay Lake are known for their brook trout populations.
Nipigon River: Known as the “Brook Trout Capital of the World,” this river is a must-visit. The deep pools and fast currents provide an ideal habitat for large brook trout.
Lake Superior: Specifically, the tributaries that flow into Lake Superior are excellent for late fall brook trout. Try the Goulais River or the Batchawana River for a chance at a trophy brookie.
Kawartha Highlands: Eels Creek and Bottle Creek are smaller water bodies but offer excellent opportunities for brook trout, especially in the late fall when the fish are stocking up for winter.
These locations offer a mix of fishing experiences, from easily accessible spots to more remote and challenging locations. Each has its unique charm and, of course, the promise of some fantastic late fall brook trout fishing.
Gear Up
When it comes to gear, a 7 or 8-foot medium action graphite rod paired with a large line capacity spinning reel is your best bet. For line, go for 6 or 8-pound test monofilament. Trust me, you don’t want to be under-geared when you hook into a late fall brookie; these fish fight hard.
Lure Selection
Spoons, my friends, are your go-to lures for late fall. Opt for brightly painted spoons with brass or silver backs. The Williams Nipigon spoon and the Little Cleo are personal favorites. These lures mimic the small fish that brook trout feed on, and their wobbling action in the water is irresistible to these aggressive fall feeders.
Techniques to Try
Casting and trolling are both effective in late fall. When casting, aim for the deeper holes and transition areas. A slow retrieve works wonders as the trout are not as fast in the colder water. If trolling, go for a moderate speed and keep your lure at varying depths to find where the trout are holding.
Timing is Everything
Late afternoon into early evening is prime time. As the sun starts to set, brook trout become more active, moving into shallower waters to feed. This is your golden hour. Make the most of it.