Nettilling Lake
Why Rent On Nettilling Lake
Nestled in the harsh yet breathtaking landscape of Baffin Island in Nunavut, Canada, Nettilling Lake is a natural wonder that stands as the world’s largest lake on an island. Located in the Great Plain of the Koukdjuak, this vast freshwater lake is approximately 280 kilometers northwest of Iqaluit, the capital and largest city of Nunavut.
The lake’s expansive surface area of 5,542 square kilometers is dotted with numerous islands in its eastern half, while the western half is deeper and island-free. Fed by Amadjuak Lake and various streams, Nettilling Lake empties into Foxe Basin via the shallow Koukdjuak River. The area is renowned for its oligotrophic waters, home to Arctic char and two species of stickleback, making it a haven for anglers.
During the summer, visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and boat tours to explore the lake’s pristine waters and abundant bird life, including the world’s largest colony of geese. There are no marinas or boat launches in the immediate vicinity, but adventurers can arrange for guided expeditions from Iqaluit.
In the winter, Nettilling Lake transforms into a frozen expanse perfect for dog sledding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The surrounding tundra is crucial for caribou migration, offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities. For those interested in history, the area was explored by Franz Boas in 1884 and later surveyed by J. Dewey Soper, adding a rich cultural layer to this Arctic gem. The harsh yet majestic beauty of Nettilling Lake and its surroundings make it an unforgettable destination for the intrepid traveler.
- Surface area (km)
- 5542
- Max depth (m)
- 132
- Elevation (m)
- 30
- Shoreline length (km)
- 7168
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Nettilling Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, swimming in Nettilling Lake is not safe. The water is very cold and the lake remains largely frozen for most of the year, making it dangerous for swimming. Additionally, the lake’s remote and pristine environment, though clear and deep, does not make it suitable for recreational swimming.
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Nettilling Lake is a popular destination because of its unique geography and wildlife. It is the largest lake on an island and the largest in Nunavut, Canada, with a diverse landscape of islands and deep waters. The area is important for barren-ground caribou and home to ringed seals and several fish species.
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The fishing season for Arctic char in Nettilling Lake, Nunavut, is closed from December 25th to December 31st. The quota is 22,000. This regulation is part of the Variation Order issued by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada for the Arctic Region.
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There are no typical beaches on Nettilling Lake. The lake is surrounded by a flat, low-lying area known as the Great Plain of the Koukdjuak, which is made up of limestone, shale, and glacial drift, and it has many marshy areas rather than sandy beaches. The shore does not rise significantly above the lake level.
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The closest town to Nettilling Lake in Nunavut, Canada, is Iqaluit. Iqaluit is the capital of Nunavut and is located about 280 kilometers southeast of the lake. It is the largest city in the territory.
