shallow water

Desert Lake, located east of the town of Godfrey in Frontenac County, is among the deepest lakes in the area and has a natural population of lake trout. Posting a report on The Angler’s Atlas, member Chris writes, “Desert Lake is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the area. I marked spots well over 300 ft. deep and there are said to be deeper holes still. “Desert Lake is a popular lake for lake trout and is busy all season long. In the spring, trout are shallower and can be taken long-lining or still-fishing the shallower areas. “During the summer, trout go much deeper and can be taken deepwater trolling along the narrows and off points dropping out into deep water, or by finding deep shoals and anchoring and fishing with dead-bait. “Large boulders and rock piles rise surprisingly fast out of deepwater, so caution must be taken, especially off points near the top of the narrows.” Sheena Pillay, from Desert Lake Family Resort, agrees with this caution, and suggests that a depth finder can be an invaluable tool. She adds that along with lake trout, bass and pike fishing are very popular with her guests. There are several spots where the shallow and weedy areas offer excellent habitat for these species. Pillay suggests that live bait can work very well. Also, pink worms and frog lures can be productive. Desert Lake is located in Ontario Fisheries Management Zone 18. LAKE ACCESS Take Highway 401 to Kingston, then Highway 38 north to Verona. Turn right on Desert Lake Road just after leaving Verona. Desert Lake Family Resort has a large campground, cottages and an inn, as well as a boat launch. See their website for their full range of amenities at desertlakeresort.on.ca.

Snug Harbor Resort launch

Snug Harbour Resort. Catch big fish!

Beautiful Lake

Desert Lake is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the area. I have marked spots well over 300 ft deep and there are said to be deeper holes still. Desert Lake is a popular lake for Lake Trout and is busy all season long. In the spring trout are shallower and can be taken long-lining or still fishing the shallower areas, during the summer trout go much deeper and can be taken deepwater trolling along "The Narrows" and off points dropping out into deep water, or by finding deep shoals and anchoring and fishing with dead-bait. Excellent populations of largemouth bass in the many weedier/shallower areas of the lake, as well as Northern pike. Bass in the 5-6 lb range are common. Large boulders and rockpiles rise surprisingly fast out of deepwater so caution must be taken especially off points near the top of The Narrows.

Good spot to try for Lake trout

Large shallow rocks - proceed slowly

Excellent (free) boat launch near Desert Lake Camground although parking can be limited on the roadside during the height of the summer season.