Get Out and Enjoy Ontario’s Historic Lake Nipissing

Lake Nipissing has a long and fascinating history which makes it an extraordinary boating experience. It is the fifth-largest lake in the province of Ontario and covers an area of approximately 873 square kilometers (337 square miles).

There’s a tremendous amount of exploration and consequently, it makes it a stunning family boating destination for recreational pleasure craft including runabouts, fishing boats and larger cruisers. The opportunities to find a quiet cove, pristine beach, and of course an epic fishing spot are virtually endless. The lake is one of my favorite places to spend the day with family and friends. There are so many options and itineraries that each time you venture out you can explore or do something new.

Lake Nipissing History

Lake Nipissing was shaped by the retreating glaciers of the last ice age, which created depressions and basins. As the glaciers melted, meltwater collected in these depressions, forming early versions of the lake. Isostatic rebound, the rising of land as the glaciers’ weight lifted, further influenced its development. Likely once part of Glacial Lake Algonquin, a larger glacial lake system, Lake Nipissing evolved over millennia as its basin filled with water from various sources.

The lake’s present shape, size, and depth were shaped by underlying rock formations, isostatic rebound, and ongoing geological processes. The lake has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. The Anishinaabe people, including the Nipissing First Nation, have lived in the region for generations and continue to have a strong presence in the area. European explorers first arrived in the 17th century, with French fur traders and missionaries establishing trade routes and missions in the region. Lake Nipissing played a crucial role in the fur trade as a transportation route connecting the interior of North America to the St. Lawrence River.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, logging became an important industry in the Lake Nipissing region. Timber was harvested from the surrounding forests and transported via the lake to sawmills. There was even a mine on the lake at one point and you can read more about that here in local legend Backroads Bill Steers article on the Newman mine.

Boating Resources

When venturing out with family and friends onto Lake Nipissing, it’s important that you have the necessary and recommended resources and tools. Lake Nipissing is a fantastic lake for recreational boating including watersports, exploration, and of course world-class fishing. The waters are known to warm up quite nicely in the summer as much of the lake is relatively shallow (20-30 feet deep on the North Bay east side). With the vast size of the lake, you must respect that conditions can change quickly when the weather rolls in or the wind picks up mid-afternoon and thus diligence is required.

I also highly recommend the use of navigational maps on your boats display or app on your phone as many shoals exist throughout the lake. With proper planning on this big water, you will enjoy countless hours of fun with your family and friends. You can find a two-part series on Cruising Lake Nipissing via these links:

• Part 1
• Part 2

Six Itineraries 

While there countless opportunities to explore and enjoy Lake Nipissing, I’ve put together six different itineraries to help lead you in the right direction.

1. Manitou Islands

Located 7km from the North Bay Marina, the Manitou Islands are a group of small islands known for their stunning natural scenery. Boaters can anchor their boats and enjoy swimming, picnicking, or playing on the stunning white sand beach. These islands have unmatched natural beauty but also historic & geographic significance, in fact, in-between the Manitou Islands is an ancient volcanic pipe.

2. West Arm

The West Arm of Lake Nipissing is renowned for its tranquil beauty and abundant fishing opportunities. It is a popular spot for anglers looking to catch species such as walleye, northern pike, and bass. The scenic shoreline and calm waters make it an excellent place for boating and exploring. Bowhey’s West Nipissing Resort Marina & Café is a popular destination to debark from or visit.

3. Callander Bay

Situated on the southern edge of Lake Nipissing, Callander Bay offers picturesque views and calm waters. It’s known for great fishing opportunities as well as a newly constructed lighthouse that’s worth a look. Boaters can anchor or moor their boats and via a short walk visit the many shops or restaurants of high recommendation is the 1886 Lake House Bistro.

4. Sturgeon Falls

Located northwest of North Bay, boating up the Sturgeon River is a special experience as you transition from the big open waters into a riverboat cruise, at the end you will find Minnehaha Bay Municipal Marina with fuel and Twiggs for a snack.

5. The French River

French River is a historically significant waterway, connecting Lake Nipissing and Lake Huron, stretching around 110 kilometers. Renowned for its role in the fur trade era, it served as a vital route for European explorers and fur traders, connecting the Great Lakes to the interior of the continent. Indigenous communities also depended on it for trade and travel. Boating within the French River allows for countless navigational itineraries as well as calm waters and rugged Canadian quintessential artistic shorelines. The River is dotted outstanding resorts & lodges including some of the best fishing-focused lodges you will find anywhere in the world.

6. Chief Commanda II

For those without access to their own boat or who are unsure about being the captain consider signing up to be a skipper on the legendary Chief Commanda II which is docked at the North Bay Waterfront at the end of the pier in the Marina! The Chief offers various cruises on Lake Nipissing, including sightseeing tours, dining cruises, and private events. It provides a unique way for both locals and tourists to experience the natural beauty of the lake and its surroundings and is a great way to get the entire family out on the water of Lake Nipissing.