Mississippi Lake: A Regional Powerhouse
Although not located directly within the city limits, Mississippi Lake is a significant regional destination for those exploring fishing in Ottawa's best fishing spots. A scenic 30-minute drive west along Highway 7 brings you to this expansive water body. The lake is characterized by its relatively shallow profile, with an average depth of 9 feet and a maximum depth reaching approximately 30 feet in the main basin.
The Fan-Favourite: Walleye
Walleye are the primary target for many visiting Mississippi Lake. Use these proven local tactics:
- • Bucktail jigs around weedline clumps
- • 3-4 inch twistertails on rock shoals
- • Targeted colours: Pink, Chartreuse, White, Black
Spring Bluegills
Look for saucer-shaped Bluegills in high numbers during the early spring. Focus on shallow back bays with mud or silt bottoms in 3 to 5 feet of water. Micro-tubes and mini crankbaits are highly effective.
Shore Fishing & Family Facilities
The municipal park in the town of Carleton Place is a fantastic hub for shore anglers and families. The park offers expansive shoreline access where Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Pike, Crappie, and various Sunfish are common catches.
Shore Angler Tactical Tip:
Live bait suspended under a float is the reliable choice for steady action. If you prefer casting, shiny inline spinners and noisy topwater lures are excellent for triggering strikes from aggressive Bass and Pike cruising the park's shallows.
The park is well-equipped with ample parking, shaded picnic areas, clean washrooms, and playground equipment, making it an ideal spot for a full day of recreational angling and family relaxation.
Boating Access & Boat Launches
Mississippi Lake offers multiple access points for boaters. In Carleton Place, you will find two high-quality concrete launch ramps (fee applies) at the municipal park.
For those looking for a free alternative, a public gravel ramp is located west of Carleton Place at Concession 9A, just off Highway 7. Parking is available at this location. Additionally, Baitcasters provides full-service launch facilities (fee applies) on the southwest side of the lake, conveniently located for those targeting the lake's deeper basins.