Lake in fall

Lake Manitou Vacation Rentals

Lake Manitou

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Lake Manitou, Ontario, Canada

Why Rent On Lake Manitou

Nestled within the expansive Manitoulin Island in Northern Ontario, Canada, Lake Manitou stands as a natural marvel, boasting the distinction of being the largest lake on a freshwater island in the world. With a surface area of approximately 104 square kilometers, this lake is a gem surrounded by the serene waters of Lake Huron.

The nearby towns of Little Current and Gore Bay offer convenient access to the lake, providing amenities and services for visitors. For anglers, Lake Manitou is a paradise, teeming with a variety of fish species including trout, pike, and bass. The lake’s 90 miles of shoreline and depths reaching up to 162 feet ensure a diverse fishing experience.

Several marinas and boat launches around the lake cater to boaters and water enthusiasts, facilitating activities like sailing, kayaking, and canoeing during the summer months. The lake’s numerous shoals, many of which have been marked with buoys for safety, add to the excitement of exploring its waters.

In the winter, Lake Manitou transforms into a hub for ice fishing and snowmobiling, with well-marked trails crisscrossing the frozen expanse. The surrounding landscape, shaped by glaciers, features unique land formations such as the Cup and Saucer Bluff, which offers panoramic views of the lake from its summit.

The Lake Manitou And Area Association works diligently to preserve the environmental and cultural integrity of the lake and its surroundings, ensuring that this natural treasure remains vibrant for future generations. Whether you come for the fishing, boating, or simply to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, Lake Manitou is an unforgettable destination.

Best time to go
Visit Lake Manitou in September and October for stunning fall foliage, crisp temperatures (10-15°C), and fewer crowds. Enjoy hiking, canoeing, and fishing for lake trout and walleye. Nearby, attend the Bala Cranberry Festival or Toronto International Film Festival in early September. Local wineries and roadside markets are open during harvest season.
Water Quality
Lake Manitou's waters are deep blue and crystal-clear, allowing visibility up to 10 to 15 feet.
Surface area (km)
104
Max depth (m)
49
Elevation (m)
234
Shoreline length (km)
145

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Marinas on Lake Manitou

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Manitou has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, it is not always safe to swim in Lake Manitou. The lake faces issues with accumulated sediment, diminished habitat, and degraded water quality, which can impact its recreational capacity and safety for swimmers.

  • Lake Manitou is a popular destination because of its excellent fishing opportunities. It is home to various fish species such as lake trout, ling, bass, whitefish, pickerel, and pike, particularly in the deeper, clearer waters of the Ontario lake. For the Indiana lake, it offers activities like boating and jet-skiing due to its depth and size.

  • For Lake Manitou in Ontario, the fishing season for lake trout is open from the third Saturday in May to September 30. The catch limit is zero for most anglers, except for those with a lake trout tag. Only barbless hooks are allowed, and only one hook can be used for lake trout.

  • For families, the best beach at Lake Manitou is Jack Tibbs Memorial Park in Manitou Beach, Michigan. This park has a playground, fields, and a picnic area, making it suitable for family activities. Additionally, it is part of a community with family-friendly features like a farmers and crafters market and pet-friendly services.

  • The towns near Lake Manitou on Manitoulin Island are Rockville, Green Bay, Bidwell, and Sandfield. These communities are small and were once more bustling, with many still having old post offices, school houses, and churches. Sandfield is currently the most active of these communities.