This episode is a special one for all of us here at FNC Central, but especially for one of our co-hosts, Steve Niedzwiecki.

Steve has been a member of the Fish’n Canada team for the past five years, but actually first appeared on an episode, over 20 years ago, when he was the owner of the legendary Chaudiere Lodge on the upper French River. 

Even though Steve has since sold his interest in the lodge, it still holds a very special place in his heart and that’s exactly why, for this shoot, we’re sending him back to his old stomping grounds.

Pete, who’s no stranger to these parts either, will join Steve as he experiences life at Chaudiere Lodge, not as the owner but as a guest.

This nostalgic return to where it all started has all the makings of something special.

Lake Nipissing and the French River

Lake Nipissing and the French River is an incredible fishery that also happens to be steeped in Canadian history. The first to paddle and fish these waters were the Aboriginals, followed by the French explorers and fur trappers of the 16th century. It is considered to be one of the most significant exploration routes of the northwest.

Chaudiere Lodge is located on the Upper French River, just 30km from the mouth of Lake Nipissing. 

This lake is renowned for big fish, but like many lakes of its size, it’s also notorious for waves that will keep even the most hardcore angler from venturing too far from shore.

Fortunately for the boys the weather forecast for day one is calling for little to no wind and glass-calm waters, at least for the morning, meaning access to the big lake, and hopefully big schools of giant unpressured Smallmouth Bass.

After a mapping session with some of the lodge guides, the boys hit the big water and head for a stretch of rocky points, shoals, and islands.

Electronics are an absolute must when venturing out to these parts of Lake Nipissing as it’s a minefield of unmarked rocks. Our Garmin units, as well as some slow, cautious driving, have certainly saved us a few props over the years.

When Steve and Pete finally arrive at their first spot, they’re surprised with what they find. They were “expecting” water temps in the low to mid-70s after a stretch of hot weather and the calendar’s recent turn to July. What they see, however, is water at a cool 66 degrees, possibly a bit too cold for the post-spawn, off-shore pattern they anticipated.

A fun fish, but not what the boys had in mind when heading to Lake Nipissing

A Welcome Surprise

The boys toughed out the slow morning but ended up with a fairly decent day of Smallie fishing, certainly not what Nipissing’s capable of producing.

Since high winds are now in the forecast, the guys decided to head back towards the lodge. And of course, in typical Petey and Stevie fashion… just one more spot along the way.

After a great dinner, sleep, and breakfast at the lodge, it’s now time to change gears and switch up to Largemouth, something the boys truly love to do. 

French River Largemouth

With so much backwater in the French River, they decided to head to some of Steve’s old faithful hotspots. Shorelines, weed edges, heavy pads, arrowheads & reeds, and even the odd boat dock are all on the menu. 

First up was the heavy stuff. This is some of Pete and Steve’s favourite structure to fish but, fair warning, this type of fishing is all about managing expectations. Anglers have to anticipate a lower hook-up rate and expect to lose the majority of fish that do bite. It’s the nature of the beast.

That being said, even a 10% hookup rate in a place this loaded with Largies can lead to a great day on the water.

After a great day in the muck, the boys hit one last spot, something new to Steve and much more welcoming to spinning gear. Sitting on the outside of the bay was a brand new houseboat with a huge dock area just begging to house a big Largemouth. After a few exploratory casts, Steve managed to lure him out.

Gettin’ To Chaudiere Lodge

Located on the mighty French River, Chaudière Lodge offers not only world-class fishing, but canoeing, kayaking, photography, and much more. 

The 3,200 square-foot main lodge has a large, rustic dining room, complete with a stunning view of the French River. There’s also a lounge where you can sit by the fire, listen to great music or watch “the big game”.

Chaudiere has 12 waterfront 1, 2 or, 3 bedroom cottages that can accommodate two, four, or six guests. They are spotless, modern, and will meet the high standards of any fishing group.

What can we say, we’ve been visiting Chaudiere Lodge for years, and we keep coming back!