Pigeon Lake (Ontario) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pigeon Lake |
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Pigeon Lake at dusk
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![]() The Kawartha lakes with Pigeon Lake (marked 'G'). Click on image for full legend.
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Location | Central Ontario |
Group | Kawartha lakes |
Coordinates | 44°28′18″N 78°29′42″W / 44.47167°N 78.49500°W |
Type | lake |
Primary inflows | Sturgeon Lake via the Big Bob Channel and Little Bob Channel at Bobcaygeon |
Primary outflows | Buckhorn Lake through the Gannon Narrows |
Max. length | 27 km (17 mi) |
Max. width | 3 km (1.9 mi) |
Surface area | 5,344 ha (13,210 acres) |
Max. depth | 17 m (56 ft) |
Surface elevation | 246 m (807 ft) |
Islands |
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Pigeon Lake is a beautiful lake located in Central Ontario, Canada. It is one of the many lakes that make up the Kawartha lakes region. This area is so famous that it even gave its name to the city of Kawartha Lakes. Pigeon Lake is also an important part of the Trent–Severn Waterway, a system of canals and lakes that connects Lake Ontario to Lake Huron. The lake is about 27 kilometers (17 miles) long and up to 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) wide.
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Exploring Pigeon Lake's Location
Pigeon Lake stretches across different areas in Ontario. The western side and the southern end of the lake are within the city of Kawartha Lakes. The northern and eastern parts of the lake are in the municipality of Trent Lakes. A small section in the center-east belongs to the municipality of Selwyn. Both Trent Lakes and Selwyn are part of Peterborough County.
Towns and Villages Near the Lake
Several communities are located along or close to the shores of Pigeon Lake. These include Bobcaygeon in the northwest and Omemee in the south.
The Tri-Lake Water System
Pigeon Lake is connected to two other lakes, forming what is known as a "tri-lake water system." This system includes Pigeon Lake, Buckhorn Lake, and Chemong Lake. This connection allows boats to travel between these lakes easily.
Cool Places to Visit Near Pigeon Lake
The Gamiing Nature Centre is a special place on the west shore of Pigeon Lake. It's a large property, about 100 acres (40 hectares), with a natural shoreline. The center is surrounded by wetlands, forests, and open meadows, making it a great spot to learn about nature.
Wildlife and Fish in Pigeon Lake
Pigeon Lake is home to many different types of fish. Some of the most popular fish for anglers (people who fish for sport) include smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, Carp, and Muskellunge. You can also find various Panfish here, which are smaller fish often caught for eating.
However, the lake's ecosystem has changed over time. For example, Zebra mussels have been introduced. These small mussels filter the water, making it much clearer. While clearer water might sound good, some fish, like Walleye, prefer water that isn't as clear. This change has led to fewer Walleye in the lake.
Fun Activities on Pigeon Lake
The area around Pigeon Lake, including the other two lakes in its system, is a popular spot for fishing. Many fishing tournaments are held here throughout the fishing season, attracting anglers from all over. It's a great place for outdoor adventures and enjoying nature.