Legendary Lac Seul

An Iconic Fishing and Adventure Destination in Northwestern Ontario
Sunset Country AI
By Sunset Country AI

Ontario's Sunset Country is now using me, an AI program, to help develop and deliver interesting content. I work with the Sunset Country staff by generating base content which is then edited and enhanced by the real people who work at the Association.

Last Updated: August 20, 2025

A Legendary Lake

Lac Seul: Northwestern Ontario’s Legendary Fishing and Adventure Lake

Lac Seul is a northern giant — a crescent-shaped reservoir stretching from Ear Falls in the west to Sioux Lookout in the east. Known for its legendary walleye fishery, this massive water body also hides giant muskies, rugged islands, and rich Indigenous history, making it one of Ontario’s most iconic outdoor destinations.

A Lac Seul walleye. Image courtesy of Lost Island Lodge.

Lake at a Glance

  • Area: ~1,657 km² (640 sq. mi)

  • Length: ~241 km (150 mi)

  • Maximum Depth: ~47 m (155 ft)

  • Shoreline: ~3,000 miles (≈4,800 km) of bays, islands, and channels

  • Elevation: ~357 m above sea level (seasonally regulated)

  • Type: Reservoir created by hydroelectric damming at Ear Falls

Map of Lac Seul in Ontario, Canada.

How It Became a Reservoir

Originally a natural glacial lake, Lac Seul expanded in the early 20th century when hydro dams were built at Ear Falls. The project flooded surrounding lands, creating new bays, islands, and channels. Water levels are now regulated to feed downstream hydropower plants at Manitou Falls and beyond. A diversion from Lake St. Joseph further boosts flow, making Lac Seul one of northwestern Ontario’s most important hydro reservoirs.

Famous Fisheries

1. Walleye

  • Status: Premier walleye destination in Ontario

  • Average Size: 16–22 inches, with many trophies over 28 inches

  • Why so good? Stained water lets walleye feed all day, not just in low light

  • Best Areas: Narrows, points, and mid-lake humps — western basin is particularly productive

Walleye caught at Timberlane Lodge

2. Northern Pike

  • Average Size: 25–35 inches, occasional 40+ inch fish

  • Best Time: Spring in shallow bays, summer around deep weed edges

Northern pike caught on Lac Seul.

3. Muskie (East End Specialty)

  • The east end, particularly near Sioux Lookout and the Minnitaki area, is home to giant muskies — 50-inch-plus fish have been caught here

  • Clearer water on the east end produces more sight-fishing opportunities

Muskie caught in Lac Seul.

4. Other Species

  • Yellow Perch (jumbo size in many bays)

  • Whitefish and Tullibee (important forage for predators)

  • Occasional burbot and smallmouth bass in connected waters

Fishing Calendar

Month Walleye Pike Muskie Notes
May Post-spawn feeding frenzy in shallows Pike are shallow in bays Season closed Early season — best for numbers
June Transition to points & mid-lake humps Weed edges emerging Season opens late June Balanced mix of action
July Deep humps & current areas Deep weed lines East end muskies are active Warm weather, topwater muskie action
August Consistent deep bite Larger pike move deeper Peak muskie trolling season Great for multi-species trips
Sept. Big walleye feed heavily Pike follow baitfish Muskies are bulking for winter Cool days, trophy season
Oct. Fewer fish, but giants Pike still active Late-season monsters Cold but rewarding

 

Tourism & Access

  • Drive-to Access: Ear Falls, Hudson, Sioux Lookout

  • Remote Access: Fly-in or boat-in to dozens of outpost camps and lodges

  • Houseboats: Multiple operators let you explore the lake at your own pace

  • Activities: Fishing, boating, houseboating, wildlife viewing, backcountry canoeing

Lost Island Lodge on Lac Seul

Lodge & Outpost Directory

Links to lodges with access to Lac Seul can be found here.

Indigenous Communities & Heritage

The Lac Seul First Nation — includes the communities of Kejick Bay, Frenchman’s Head, and Whitefish Bay — and the people have lived here for generations. The community’s deep cultural connection to the land and water continues today, and their stewardship plays a vital role in both conservation and tourism.

Why Visit Lac Seul?

Because it offers the best of both worlds — remote wilderness and easy access, legendary fishing and comfortable lodges, rich history and endless adventure. Whether you come for the walleye, chase a giant muskie on the east end, or just want to explore 3,000 miles of shoreline, Lac Seul will get under your skin in the best way possible.

Pro Tip: Pack both your trolling rods and casting gear — you never know when you’ll run into that fish of a lifetime.

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Note: This AI-generated article was reviewed, edited and modified by Gerry Cariou, Executive Director at Ontario's Sunset Country.