Family Fishing At Its Best

Jenna McKeown visits Limberlost Lodge in Ontario's Algoma Country

Ever since I was a young girl, fishing has been an important way for my father and I to spend quality time together. Using a worm and a bobber, we spent many happy weekends together catching many species on our local rivers. My favourite species to catch? Smallmouth bass! They jumped and pulled so hard, no matter the size, and we both loved catching them.

Drone Shot

Now, as a young adult, it’s not often that we get the chance to go fishing together. But when we do, we want it to be the best fishing possible—especially for smallmouth bass. Over the years, we have discovered one of the top locations to catch big smallmouth bass is Algoma Country in Northern Ontario. Specifically, Limberlost Lodge is a fantastic family getaway.

It has a convenient drive-to location, clean and comfortable cabins, and of course, Limberlost Lodge is surrounded by literally dozens of public access lakes and rivers to fish. They have boats available with all their rental cottages to fish their main lake, or you can bring your own boat to explore the region and its trophy smallmouth bass fishery. The lake is also fantastic for swimming, canoeing, and other water sports. This is the perfect combination for families or friends—which is why it is ideal for my father and me.

Releasing the Boat

Casting

We’ve learned that early spring usually meant we had to cast streamers and crayfish patterns to target the smallmouth. Smelt are abundant in the region, and any patterns that are 3-5 inches in length that resemble this food source produce exceptionally well. By June and throughout the summer, top-water fishing is at its best. Poppers in yellow, green, and black are exceptionally effective, especially in late afternoon and evening.

By mid-September, with cooling days and nights, the smallmouth become ravenous as water temperatures begin to drop. They know winter is not far away and they begin to really chow down, trying to fatten up. Again, streamer patterns that simulate smelt, perch, or baitfish are deadly. You will generally need sink-tip or intermediate lines to get your fly patterns down in the water column to where the bass are hunting.

Smallmouth

Smallmouth Mouth with Fly

My time with my father is precious, and we want great fishing but on a reasonable budget. Coming to fish in Algoma Country and staying in a wonderful cabin at Limberlost Lodge ensures we make the most of our time together. Whether you want a trip with some fishing friends or family, coming to this region to catch trophy-sized smallmouth bass from May through October will ensure you have a wonderful experience. Check Limberlost Lodge out online either through their website or Facebook page so you can start planning your next fishing adventure!

Dock and Boats

Ariel Shot

BOOK THIS TRIP

Limberlost Lodge
PH: (705) 828-0461 Mobile & Office
Facebook

About Jenna McKeown

Jenna McKeown has loved fishing since she was a young girl. Now as a young adult attending university, she has learned the basics of fly fishing. Like all good anglers, she welcomes instruction and education on all aspects of fly fishing and fish. She hopes to inspire other young girls and women to learn more about fly fishing and the great outdoors. Currently Jenna is attending university to become a teacher focused on one day instructing primary grade students in French. Jenna is a passionate singer, songwriter and guitarist. She produces much of the music used in The New Fly Fisher.

Recommended Articles

Small Lakes That Fish Big, Really Big Bass

Granary Lake Retreat is one of Ontario’s hidden gems.

5 Places to Shore Fish

Fish’n Canada shows you where to go shore fishing in Ontario.

Top 5 Baits for Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass

What baits do you use to target bass? Find out why these 5 are the best!

10 Facts About Lake of the Woods

10 facts amazing about this massive Northwest Ontario Lake!

20 Years With Fish TV!

Fish TV discusses their favourite Ontario catches

St. Francis Titans

Fishing the Original Muskie Capital of the World

Fishing and Foraging

Add some fresh foods and forage to your fishing adventures!

Don’t Be Afraid Of Muskies

Muskies are fish of 10,000 casts and are found in large bodies of water in Northwestern Ontario.

Salmon Fishing

The Michipicoten River is a Sleeper for Chinook

World Class Walleye

Fishing Day Trips on the Bay of Quinte

Hidden Musky Gems

The Musky Hunter shares 3 favourite musky hot spots across Ontario.

Smallmouth & Largemouth at Chaudière Lodge

A nostalgic fishing trip on the French River & Lake Nipissing.

Experiencing Prince Edward County - The Angler’s Way

Walleye fishing on the world-famous Bay of Quinte.

Adventures on the Nipigon River

Anglers can target Chinook Salmon and Steelhead in this body of water—but most come for the trophy Brook Trout.

Year Round Fishing in Ontario

Who Says You Can’t Fish All Year in Ontario?

Camp Conewango

Lake Talon Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Fishing The Shoulder Season

Incredible Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike fishing at The Outpost Lodge in the Mississagi Valley

French River Fever

This waterway is rich in lunge lore, having produced muskies in excess of 60 pounds.

Catching Ontario Walleye

Pro Tips for Bait and Walley Presentations

Muskie Moons

More than just superstition?