FLOOD RAINS NOT OVER AS SOME LEVELS COMPARABLE TO HISTORIC 2019 LEVELS, WARNS MNR

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

MUSKOKA — Warm weather, lingering temperatures and up to another 10 mm of rain this coming week has the MNR holding fast to its flood warning alert.

Their seven-day weather forecast calls for daytime highs of 12°C to 17°C and overnight lows between 1°C and 7°C.

But then lake and river water levels should to start to stabilize in some areas, with decreases possible in some locations.

Wharf Road in Gravenhurst was closed as of Wednesday afternoon with Lake Muskoka waters lapping at the doorsteps of the Tin Boathouses.
A seagull takes flight after landing dinner in the flood waters.

Meanwhile several areas are experiencing elevated water levels and flows.

In some locations, levels are comparable to those observed in 2019 and may result in localized infrastructure impacts and flooding.

Generally dry and warm conditions are expected until next Wednesday, April 29, which may limit additional runoff.

The Segwun and Wenonah II are in deeperer water now with 10 mm or more rain expected by next Wednesday.

The MNR’s “FLOOD WARNING” means flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.

River levels and flows within the district remain elevated and are expected to persist across most locations. Lake water levels in several areas are near or have exceeded the upper limits of the Normal Operating Zone (NOZ) and are now in the High-Water Zone.

Their message applies district‑wide across the MNR Bracebridge–Minden–Parry Sound District, including portions of the District of Parry Sound, District of Muskoka, and County of Haliburton.

And all watersheds within the district are affected, including the Severn, Boyne, Black, French, Burnt, Gull, Pickerel, Seguin, South, Magnetawan, and Muskoka River watersheds.  MNR advises municipalities and residents to take immediate action to safeguard homes and property. Flooding could occur quickly and with little or no warning.

As usual, they warn caution around lakes, streams and all water bodies.

Boathouses everywhere in Muskoka have been flooded to some level.

Fishermen testing waters

Meanwhile some fishermen can’t wait to bait and testing the local waters.

Like Michael Weston, who was at the Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst today.

He’s from Ottawa and working in town for a short time and just couldn’t stay inside and had to cast his reel.

Michael Weston is a little rusty with his casting, but got a chance to practice today. He hopes the fish will surface for him May 2.
Water levels continue to go up three more inches since Sunday at the Muskoka Wharf to 58 inches. A week ago it was 37 inches.

This as fishing season is around the corning in Ontario.

On May 2 fishing is limited to year-round species like yellow perch, trout (in some areas), and panfish, as most major seasons (walleye, pike) usually open later in the month. Select northern zones or specific, early-opening zones may allow walleye/pike, but general, southern seasons for key species often open the second or third Saturday of May.

Fishing primer:

What Can You Fish on May 2nd?

  • Northern Pike:Open in select zones (e.g., Zone 14 opens May 1).
  • Walleye/Sauger:Season generally opens second Saturday in May (some exceptions for early opening).
  • Trout (Stream/Rainbow):Open in many areas, including “year-round” zones.
  • Panfish (Perch, Crappie):Open year-round in most areas.
  • Bass:Early catch-and-release is available until May 10 in some areas, but regular season opens later.

Important Reminders

  • Zone Regulations:Always check specific Fisheries Management Zone rules for exact, local dates, as seasons are not uniform across Ontario.
  • Fish Sanctuaries:Many spawning locations have no-fishing rules until the second or third Saturday of May.
  • Licensing:You must have a valid Ontario fishing license.

📧 Contact, Subscribe, AdvertiseEmail: news@muskokatoday.com

Subscribe: E-transfer $30 to news@muskokatoday.com

Mail: MuskokaTODAY.com, Box 34, Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1T5

Advertise: Email news@muskokatoday.com for rates