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Lake Nipissing is one lake in Ontario where ice fishing is a way of life for the thousands that flock each and every year. This lake enjoys an extremely active winter fishery, and it is considered to be one of the finest ice fishing lakes in the province by the many experienced anglers that head to this "fishing mecca." The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources stands behind the reputation of Nipissing and reports that fish populations are doing well and are very stable. Once old man winter starts blowing down the lake, anglers wait in anticipation for the first solid crust of ice to form on the lake's surface. Once it has been deemed safe, roads and snowmobile trails criss-cross the surface like a racetrack on frozen water. That is when you first realize the sheer size and extent ice fishing has on the area, especially when the huts begin to appear. With more than 2,000 huts covering Nipissing's outer shell, it is no wonder that some people mistake it for a small city. Small, one-man huts all the way up to "mansions on ice" can be found littering the lake, and many spend entire weekends out on the ice catching fish to their hearts content. These huts come complete with stoves, some with bunks, and all have most of the comforts of home within. There are plenty of ice hut operators in the area, and each one provides top-notch service to keep the angler happy and satisfied. Operators can provide you with everything from licenses, equipment and bait, to traveling to the best locations the lake has to offer. Huts are moved frequently to stay with the schools of fish and to prevent over fishing specific areas. These operators have a well-trained knowledge about the lake and you can rest assured that you will be in safe hands. Some of the most popular species that are targeted while on the hard water are walleye, perch, pike and whitefish. Each species has a specific technique used in order to catch them, and excellent tips and knowledge can be always gleaned from hut operators and experienced locals. One thing is for sure - nothing tastes better on a cold winter day than the taste of a succulent walleye fillet covered in crispy batter. Take time out this winter to discover the joys that ice fishing on Lake Nipissing can bring. Whether you do it by yourself, or with your family, the experience will be one you cherish for years to come. |