Out of 250,000 freshwater lakes in the province
of Ontario, Lake Nipissing is the fourth largest--excluding the Great
Lakes. While a very large lake, it is also very shallow with an average
depth of 4 to 5 metres. Boaters have to watch out for the many sandbars
found along its uneven, irregular shoreline, the perimeter of which is
approximately 1100 km. In its deepest part the lake has a depth of
52 metres. It is about 65 km long and approximately 25 km wide. Dotted
throughout the lake are many islands, some inhabited by summer
residents, others inhabited only by nesting cormorants. Its size
alone makes Lake Nipissing a valuable natural resource. But, in
addition, it is home to over 40 species of fish and is the natural
habitat of many birds and small animals.
It’s also home to many people who inhabit the
cities, towns, and villages along its shores. Because of its
natural beauty and the rich bounty found in its depths, Lake Nipissing
is the heart of the tourist industry that feeds the economy of this
area. But, it is also a source of true pride for the people who
call it home.
sg