Quinte Fishing

Hey guys,
Lovin' the reports - looks like a good fall so far. Just need a few tips for my last trip. I have a 12 ft aluminum and am wondering if it would be safe to fish Picton bay in winds up to 20km. Not familiar with the area and wouldn't mind staying out after dark so I just wonder what you would suggest is a good upper limit for wind conditions in the cold weather. Also, concerning launch ramps... Which would you recommend for better conditions (not icing up) and which is easier to locate after dark - Picton govt dock or Merland Park. I really want to get out once more before the end of the season but I don't want to drown doing it. Any feedback is much appreciated.
Good luck,
Braden

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I live on the BOQ near Trompour Point which is east of the cement plant and would not go out in the winds we have had lately in anything under 14 feet. The winds have been very gusty and can throw a small boat around easily. I have a 12 foot Lund which is a heavy boat for its size and the farthest I would go is up to the point and close to shore. BTW there is great bass fishing on that shoreline and its somewhat protected from west and northwest winds. As for boat ramps, the best is at the ferry docks on the Adolphoustown side.. Good Luck, but be careful the water is very cold.

I would consider the picton ramp because your on fish as soon as your off the trailer and you could always fish the harbour as a last resort.

Absolutely, watch the wind down there; especially now that the water is getting colder. Don't venture out without a floater suit. My other point would be to ensure that if you are fishing after dark, ensure that lights are on at all times, both bow and stern as required. Almost collided with a 14 ft. aluminum with no lights last fall whilst running down Picton Bay towards the ramp. No lights, and you're just asking for trouble, and breaking the law. Fishing is great, but play it safe.

Hey boys,
Thanks a lot for the feedback. I've got the lights on the boat so no prob there. How about the conditions at the Picton launch. Does it ice up a lot? Are there lights on at night? Definitely want the big eyes (strictly CNR) but safety comes first, of course. Also, how do I get to Picton launch? Thanks again guys, your help is VERY MUCH appreciated.
Cheers,
Braden

_________________
Let's maintain this amazing resource!

Hey Skunked, providing it's not insane wind wise, you should be ok near the pumphouse area. You've got a good area there that you're boat should be good for. The other option is if you're coming alone try hook up with another boat. Alot of guys don't mind taking out another fellow f'man but of course be prepared still for the weather.
As you can see from the pics here most guys wear survival suits and have thermos in hand. There's a couple motels right there too should you get fatigued and require a place to crash.
There will likely be boats in your area if you don't venture too far away. You'll be amazed how many boats can sometimes cruise the same area.
I'd like to help with the directions, but I'm horrible at them. Just head to Picton and ask for Tip of the Bay Motel. The launch is right beside it. Read some previous posts too, you'll see some suggestions like salt for the ramp etc should it ice up on you. Goodluck!....Let the board know how you do!

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WIG

Skunked, it can ice up. At this writing there is so much fog in the quite area it won't be a problem today. The launch at picton is very good-lots of deep water. There is a light at the dock but it has not been on so far this fall. When you come down bring ice melter/salt with you. You may need it because of the number of boats that have been trailered disperse water on the ramp which will freeze over night. This is usually a problem for the first boaters in the A.M.
Coming from the 401 head south across the skyway bridge at shannonville/deseronto and continue into picton. You will be headed into downtown picton, when you get to the macs milk on your right hand side take the next left down the hill. Turn left at the boat launch sign[200 yards] and your there!...Larry