Fans of this lake might say we’ve saved the best for last, and certainly one could argue that Shubenacadie Grand Lake has the best bass fishing in all of Nova Scotia. If you want both smallmouth and striped bass, as well as several other species, this is where you’ll go.

Shubenacadie Grand Lake is huge, and you will cover the most water in a boat.

The striped bass in Grand Lake are massive. In fact, in April, 2016, a 43 inch (109 cm), 13 kg whopper came out of this lake. Certainly not all will be even close to this size, however, they are there and can be caught.

If it’s striped bass you’re after, go deeper with big minnow lures.

Jason LeBlanc, Warmwater Fisheries Biologist with the Nova Scotia Government, says that Shubenacadie Grand Lake also contains chain pickerel (which are open year-round), especially at the north end. “Chain pickerel are dominant in the north end, or locally called ‘Little Grand,” as well as a small lake called Fish Lake located adjacent to Grand Lake,” he advises.

As well, “anglers also have a chance to catch speckled trout, landlocked salmon and rainbow smelt (from January 1 to September 30),” he adds.

Number one, though, is the bass. Shubenacadie Grand Lake is a premier tournament lake, as is the Shubenacadie River. When you’re targetting bass, you’ll want to spend more time in the shallows, such as up near Little Grand. The areas around Fish Lake can be a good spot for bass, too. As well, Grand Lake has several inflowing and outflowing streams, all of which can be decent bass areas. Grand Lake flows out to the Shubenacadie River, which also supports a thriving population of bass, but be mindful of closures and regulations on the river.

Soft plastics are generally good choices. Top water baits, poppers and tubes are standard for bass.

Please be aware that Shubenacadie Grand Lake is really big, and you need to be careful of wind and changing weather.

Lake Access

Laurie and Oakfield provincial parks, both on the shores of Grand Lake, offer shore fishing opportunities. There is a boat launch at Oakfield park and a smaller launch on the Wellington and District Recreation Association (WADRA) parklands (extreme southern end of lake).