Lake Nipissing boasts an outstanding walleye (Sizostedion vitreum) fishery maintained through natural reproduction. The large surface area and shallow average depth allow thorough mixing by wind keeping the oxygen content of the water high. This combined with extensive nutrient enrichment of the lake result in a highly productive warm -water fishery. The much sought after walleye, known locally as pickerel, is the most abundant species in the lake although other important game fish abound in Nipissing. Respectable catches of northern pike (Esox lucius), yellow perch, smallmouth bass, and muskellunge contribute to the allure of fishing Nipissing.

Each year an average of 157,000 walleye, 57,000 pike and 125,000 yellow perch are harvested from the lake. This represents a total of approximately 354,000 kg of fish taken from the lake annually.

With 1,700 ice huts on the lake, the winter fishery on Nipissing accounts for more angler hours although more fish are caught during the spring and summer.

Major Angling Species in Nipissing:

• walleye
• northern pike
• yellow perch
• muskellunge (muskie)
• cisco (lake herrin known to grace the tables of royalty. Lake sturgeon were fished commercially using night lines until 1990 when sturgeon stocks drastically declined. Known for its large sturgeon, a giant of 292 pounds reported to have been caught in Nipissing in 1885.

After first becoming popular for its sturgeon, Lake Nipissing soon developed a reputation as an abundant source of the savory flesh of the yellow pickerel or walleye. Records indicate that between 1885 and 1921 over 229,00 kg of walleye were harvested commercially. Yet 174,700 kg were taken between 1918-1921, representing 30,000 to 50,000 fish. Commercial fishing for walleye was stopped in 1921.

As advancing transportation technology made traveling to lake Nipissing more accessible, fishing pressure gradually escalated. An alarm was sounded in the late 1960's when it was noticed that walleye stocks were on the decline. Realizing the importance of the fishery to the local economy a lake Nipissing advisory committee was formed and intensive management of the fishery started immediately. The fishing season was shortened, sanctuaries were expanded and fishing near major spawning grounds was not allowed.

As a means to monitor and maintain the health of the Lake Nipissing fishery the Lake Nipissing Fisheries Assessment was established over 25 years ago. Nipissing was one of the first to be intensively studied and remains one of the few lakes in North America for which extensive documentation exists with regards to a major fish species.

Even though the Lake Nipissing Fisheries Assessment has recently been closed after 25 years of service, biologists are optimistic about the future health of the fishery. Recent studies indicate that water quality of the lake remains optimal to support a warmwater fishery.