Lake Of The Day : Thistle Lake

Thistle Lake, more commonly known as Island Lake, is another fishing destination that owes its productivity to its structure with an abundance of islands. Naturally, it’s an angling hot spot that offers walleye, pike, perch and smallmouth bass. The Marten and Temagami Rivers flow into Island Lake, and together form the Temagami River flowing out. The fishing near the rivers can be spectacular, particularly in the spring and fall. Island Lake Lodge reports on their website that evenings are the best times for walleye. Fishing in the rivers can be an adventure itself. You can fish for pike and bass from shore at Thistle, but a boat is recommended. Try trolling a spoon near the shallows by the dam. The south side of the big island in the centre of the lake is also recommended. The several islands in Island Lake are great walleye habitat. Gary Skrzek, from Walleye Heaven, notes that in the spring and summer, rocky points around islands are ideal places for walleye. He says that even in the heat of the summer, a jig dragged slowly across the bottom can entice a walleye strike. Check out his tips at walleyeheaven.com/walleyetips.htm. Island Lake Camp, which has operated at the lake since the 1940s, encourages guests to follow a catch-and-release policy — keep no bass or walleye over 16 inches and no northern pike more than 24 inches. LAKE ACCESS From North Bay, take Hwy 17 west to West Nippissing. Turn north onto Hwy 64. Talon Lake is about 80 km from North Bay. Island Lake Camp is located at Thistle Lake, offering cottages, boats and bait. Take a look at their website at islandlakecamp.com.