Simcoe or Nipissing?

[robebrz]

I normally Drive about 3 hours north of Kingston to fish some of the backcountry Lakes. This year I am toying with the idea of going to Simcoe or Nipissing. Both of them are a little closer to home in Ohio. It also looks like the fishing may actually be  better. Does anyone have any suggestions as to which lake would be a better option having never fished either one of them? Also is there any one Outfitter that stands out Above the Rest. Being I have never been to either lake I would probably rent a hut for at least one day.  I am not stuck on any one kind of fish. Catching Perch Lake Trout or walleye would all be fun.

[nocod]

I would say simcoe it has great perch,whitefish and lakers,walleye are rare.the area to travel for each fish are close if you stay on the west side of the lake.

[Chuck Enwinde]

I'd probably go with Simcoe,  Tim Hales is one of the best operators and will normally have some of his huts on perch grounds and some over deeper water for lake trout and whitefish.  Real trophies of all three species are pretty common.  Casey's is another good operator but I think he only runs perch huts. 

If you decide on Nipissing, I use Reeds Outdoor Adventures, but Bear Creek and Rob Hyatt are two other operators with very good reputations.

[robebrz]

Thanks I would love to get a nice laker. I fish smaller back country lakes most of the time and can typically get a couple stocked eater size but haven't figured out the bigger ones yet.   I didn't make it up there last year but my wife seems ok with me taking a trip again this year if I bring back some perch. Simcoe sounds like the place for both of those. Is there anyplace to camp in the area? 

[randaller]

What type of camping are you looking at doing?

I would also suggest Simcoe. Chances of a walleye are almost zero but you have access to so may different species in one lake.

[robebrz]

I normally set up my tent and "rough" it when I head up to Plevna. I do have the option bringing my wife's horse trailer though if there is something open. Most of the camp grounds are closed this time of year.

[Chuck Enwinde]

If you want to keep costs down - Check with Casey's in Port Bolster.  He has pretty reasonably priced accommodations.

[johntom0013]

I've fished Simcoe for a few years now and have never been disappointed. Some years it's numbers of fish, some its size of fish, and some it's both. I live in northern Ohio and the trip up there is easy.

[robebrz]

What time of year do you guys recommend. Right now I'm thinking late Feb. 

[Chuck Enwinde]

I would suggest earlier in the season if you can swing it.  Generally speaking January is better than February.

[randaller]

Earlier or later is usually better fishing. Like Chuck said January (first ice) is usually the best fishing. It gets good again as the season comes to an end in March. The issue is the ice, February should be the safest but will be the coldest.

[johntom0013]

For the last 4 years I've gone in late January, doing it again in a month.

[IceinKzoo]

I go every year to Simcoe the second weekend of January.  Typically close to first ice and we do well.

[robebrz]

Wow great pic. Looks like a good time there.

[nocod]

The boys are out on the bays,I hope to get out next week .simcoe of course.

[Woodsman]

I would suggest earlier in the season if you can swing it.  Generally speaking January is better than February.

On Simcoe that can be a gamble for good ice out in the deeper area's for lakers & whities.
This year does look better for an earlier freeze.

[Tye]

Simcoe never disappoints... I had a terrible time at Nippissing last winter.