Emsdale Lake
Overview
Just north of Huntsville, you’ll find Emsdale Lake, a small lake in Muskoka. The lake has a size of 151 acres and a maximum depth of 72 meters, with two small islands in the middle.[1]
Because it is a popular spot for ice fishing in winter and bass fishing in warmer months, we decided to visit this lake. While diving near the two islands, we discovered evidence of human pollution in the form of cans. We have recorded the locations where these were found.
Map of Emsdale Lake
Lake Depth Map of Emsdale LakeUnique Inhabitants
Major fish species in Emsdale Lake are Lake Trout, Small Mouth Bass, White Sucker, Yellow Perch, and Pumpkinseed fish.[1]
Written May 9th, 2023
Last Updated May 17th, 2023
2024 Dive Season
Emsdale Lake:
May 11th , 2024
Depth: 52 feet
On the way down we saw small fish, we believe it may have been minnows or emerald lake fish, with plenty of marine snow on the way down. Marine snow is a mixture of inorganic material, plants, fecal matter, soot, and sand. They grow in size as they fall down into the deeper waters and are rich in carbon and nitrogen to feed any scavengers on the lakebed.[2]
Emsdale Lake:
April 13th, 2024
Depth: 47 feet
At this depth, we observe algae growth displaying hues of red, pink, and green. There were no fish or invertebrates observed during this dive. The lake is known to have smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and the uncommon pumpkinseed fish. Our next ROV dive at this lake will venture into a deeper section in the northwest direction. (approximately 60 feet).
Emsdale Lake:
May 11th , 2024
Depth: 46 feet
During the dive, we encountered a fascinating contrast of underwater landscape in the lake. In other areas we explored at the same depth, we’ve found algae flourishing in different colours, but here, we came upon a flat, sandy bottom. The islet and the surrounding waters were dotted with small and large boulders, which made navigation a bit tricky. We had to be especially careful to avoid getting our ROV’s tether cord caught among the rocks!
[1] -, Emsdale Lake. “Emsdale Lake - (Kearney).” Bracebridge Realty, bracebridgerealty.ca/Lake/?muskoka=Emsdale-Lake.
[2] What Is Marine Snow? oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/marinesnow.html.
Featured Technology
Learn about the ROV we will be using.