Spectacular Sturgeon Lake!

When it comes to fishing getaways in Northwest Ontario, few destinations offer the kind of rugged beauty, abundant fish populations, and peaceful seclusion that Sturgeon Lake delivers. Tucked away in the pristine boreal wilderness and draining into the Sturgeon River, this hidden gem has become a favourite for anglers seeking trophy catches, memorable adventures, and authentic Canadian hospitality.

Did you know there are five lakes named Sturgeon Lake in Ontario alone? Three are located in Northwest Ontario’s Sunset Country; one in the far north near the Ontario/Manitoba border and not far from Hudson’s Bay, one in Quetico Park and one off Highway 599 near Silver Dollar and Savant Lake, which is the Sturgeon Lake focused on in this article. The other two Sturgeon Lakes in Ontario are located in the Nipissing District near the Quebec border, and one in southern Ontario in the Kawartha Lakes Region.

In this article, we'll explore what makes fishing on Sturgeon Lake so exceptional, share some fascinating facts about the lake and the surrounding ecosystem, and introduce you to three outstanding lodges that make a trip here even more unforgettable: Lumberjack Lodge, Trappers Point Camp, and nearby Sturgeon River Outfitters.

Big Waters, Big Fish

Sturgeon Lake stretches for miles, featuring countless bays, islands, and inlets that provide ideal conditions for anglers of all skill levels.

The lake is Y-shaped, with the V part of the Y being shallower. O’Briens Landing is at the south end of the lake, which extends 35 km (22 mi) NE to Sturgeon Lakes Narrows. The northeast arm continues from the narrows another 24 km (15 mi) north. The north arm extends to Trappers Landing near Highway 599. This large, deep lake empties into the Sturgeon River. The lake is almost 60 km (37 mi) long

The lake is best known for its exceptional populations of lake trout, northern pike, and walleye. The diversity of the lake’s structure—from rocky shorelines and weedy shallows to deep mid-lake holes—creates perfect habitats for multiple species. Whether you're jigging for walleye at dawn or casting topwater for pike in the evening, the action on Sturgeon Lake is consistent and often impressive.

The Fish: What You’ll Catch on Sturgeon Lake

Fishing on Sturgeon Lake is a rewarding experience, especially for those who love a challenge paired with the reward of trophy-size catches. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

Lake Trout

If you enjoy lake trout fishing, Sturgeon Lake is perfect for you! Sturgeon is a deep, cold lake with the deepest hole being 300’ deep, making it ideal for lakers. Trappers Point Camp offers some great lake trout fishing tips on their website. Troll shorelines for lakers in the spring, or down rig or jig for them in the summer.

Northern Pike

These toothy predators are plentiful and aggressive. Sturgeon Lake’s bays and weed beds are prime spots, especially in the spring and early summer. Trophy pike are not uncommon, and there's no better adrenaline rush than watching a big one crush a spinnerbait or swimbait in shallow water.

Walleye

Walleye are abundant here, and many anglers come specifically for their excellent eating quality and thrilling strikes. Spring and early summer are prime times, with many fish caught in shallower waters and around current edges. As the season progresses, deeper structure and mid-lake reefs become productive spots.

Sturgeon Lake Fishing Regulations

Sturgeon Lake is located in Fisheries Management Zone (FMZ) 4.

Lake Trout

Season: January 1 to September 30

Limits: S-2; not more than 1 greater than 56 centimetres, and C-1; no size limit

Northern Pike

Season: open all year  
Limits: S-4 and C-2; none between 70-90 centimetres, not more than 1 greater than 90 centimetres

Walleye and Sauger Combined

Season: January 1 to April 14, and the third Saturday in May to December 31

Limits: S-4 and C-2; not more than 1 greater than 46 centimetres

Walleye Exceptions

• Post Creek - from the base of the waterfall in Post Bay to latitude 49°55′36″ N on Sturgeon Lake
• Sturgeon Lake (49°55′38″ N, 90°53′49″ W) - described as Trappers Point Bay from 50°11′55″ N to the intersection of Trout Creek and Second Creek with Highway 599

Please read the Ontario Fishing Regulations for Zone 4 online for a complete set of regulations.

Trappers Point Camp shows us how to fillet a walleye easily.

Fascinating Facts About Sturgeon Lake

Beyond the fishing, Sturgeon Lake and its surrounding ecosystems are rich in history and natural beauty. Here are a few facts that make the area even more interesting:

• Indigenous Heritage: The region around Sturgeon Lake has been home to Indigenous communities for thousands of years. The lake and the Sturgeon River have long served as travel and trade routes.
• Wildlife Viewing: While you're out on the water, it’s not uncommon to see moose, black bears, bald eagles, and even otters along the shoreline. The lake’s remoteness ensures a quiet, natural environment perfect for wildlife sightings.
• Geological Diversity: The terrain around Sturgeon Lake features the rugged Canadian Shield, with ancient granite outcrops, boreal forest, and numerous waterfalls and rapids in the river systems feeding the lake.
• Clean, Clear Waters: Like much of Sunset Country, the waters of Sturgeon Lake are clean and clear. Many anglers comment on the purity of the water and the stunning reflections at sunrise and sunset.
• Connected Waterways: Sturgeon Lake is part of a larger chain of lakes and rivers, which means adventurous anglers can explore beyond its borders by canoe or boat.

Where To Stay: Featured Lodges on Sturgeon Lake

A great fishing trip needs more than just a great lake—it needs a welcoming, well-equipped lodge to make your stay comfortable and convenient. On Sturgeon Lake, you’ll find exactly that at Lumberjack Lodge, Trappers Point Camp, and nearby Sturgeon River Outfitters.

Lumberjack Lodge

Located on the scenic south end of Sturgeon Lake, Lumberjack Lodge is a haven for anglers who appreciate a modern cabin. The lodge features a collection of well-maintained new or recently renovated housekeeping cabins, each with full kitchens, hot showers, and stunning views of the lake. They now have campsites available with full hookups—or just electricity and water if you prefer.

Lumberjack Lodge offers easy access to some of the best fishing spots on the lake, and its docks are well-kept and equipped with fuel, bait, and helpful staff ready to share local tips. The lodge also offers boat rentals and even guided fishing options if you're looking to get a head start on finding the fish.

What sets Lumberjack Lodge apart is the sense of community—whether you’re sharing stories around the evening fire pit or swapping fishing tips at the dock, it’s a place where friendships are forged and memories are made.

Trappers Point Camp

Tucked into a sheltered bay on the west side of the lake at the northern tip, Trappers Point Camp is known for its peaceful setting, family-friendly atmosphere, and great fishing access. The camp offers a mix of modern cabins and traditional-style accommodations, all clean and comfortable, with full kitchens and lakefront views. They also offer three camping options: Rent an RV, which sleeps 8, book the Wall Tent (Sleeps 6), or stay in one of 4 campsites that include electricity and water.

Trappers Point is ideal for families or small groups who want to fish hard during the day and relax in a cozy, welcoming environment at night. The camp is pet-friendly and offers weekly fish fries, canoe rentals, and even paddleboards for non-angling adventures.

Guests rave about the hosts’ hospitality and local knowledge, which helps newcomers feel right at home. Guests also have access to three nearby remote lakes.

Sturgeon River Outfitters

Although not directly on Sturgeon Lake, Sturgeon River Outfitters is located just a short distance away and offers fishing trips and expert advice for anyone looking to expand their adventure. SRO is on a 20-mile section of waterways, which also includes the following lakes: Four Bay, Three Bay, and Dizzy. Guests also have access to portage lakes such as Davies and F Lake.

The Sturgeon River travels 38.5 km (24 mi)from its head at Sturgeon Lake through many lakes to the Marchington River at Marchington Lake.

Planning Your Trip to Sturgeon Lake

The fishing season on Sturgeon Lake typically runs from mid-May through September. Spring offers the best shallow-water action for walleye and pike, while summer brings consistent multi-species fishing with long, warm days. September is often overlooked, but can be one of the best months for trophy fish and fewer bugs.

When planning your trip, consider booking your accommodations early, especially if you're targeting peak dates. Both Lumberjack Lodge and Trappers Point Camp offer seasonal packages and are happy to answer questions about what to bring, when to come, and how to make the most of your visit. You can even book the whole camp at Sturgeon River Outfitters!

For gear, a medium-action spinning or baitcasting rod will do the trick for most species. Don’t forget to bring a variety of jigs, spoons, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics. Trappers Point Camp includes a 4 to 5-hour lake trout guided trip to help further your knowledge on catching lake trout on most summer trips. And of course, bring a camera or your phone—Sturgeon Lake sunsets are some of the most beautiful in all of Ontario.

Final Cast

Fishing Sturgeon Lake in Northwest Ontario is about more than just catching fish, though you'll do plenty of that. It's about escaping the noise, reconnecting with nature, and sharing something special with the people you care about. From sunrise on the water to stories around the campfire, the experience stays with you long after you’ve packed up your tackle box.

Whether you're casting for the first time or returning for your twentieth trip, Sturgeon Lake continues to deliver.

Book your stay at Lumberjack Lodge, Trappers Point Camp, or plan a side adventure with Sturgeon River Outfitters—and experience the magic of Ontario’s Sunset Country for yourself.

All three lodges also offer hunting packages.

For more information and bookings:

• Lumberjack Lodge: thelumberjacklodge.net or 1-715-681-0158
• Trappers Point Camp: trapperspointcamp.com or 1-807-358-2043 (cell) or 888-226-2928
• Sturgeon River Outfitters: sturgeonriveroutfitters.com or 1-715-312-0844

Happy fishing!

Find out more about the fishing in Northwest Ontario

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