Kahshe Lake

Introduction

Kahshe Lake is a breathtaking natural wonderland and one of the largest lakes in the region. It is situated just a short drive south of Gravenhurst and is known as one of Muskoka’s most significant and southernmost lakes. What makes this lake unique is its tea-coloured waters, which are a result of its high level of dissolved organics. Additionally, its shoreline is anything but ordinary, with multiple bays and inlets that add to the area’s beauty.

Activities on the lake

The lake features several islands, with Boyd Island being the most massive, providing ample opportunities for exploration. The west side of the lake is shallow, while the east side is deep, and both areas are home to external rock hazards, making vigilance essential while in the water.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy on Kahshe Lake. If you’re looking to explore the lake’s corners, channels, and wide-open spaces by boat, you can easily head to one of the two boat launch sites: Kluey Bay Landing on the north side or South Kahshe Lake Road launch on the south side. For boating enthusiasts, the annual Regatta, hosted by Kahshe Lake residents for over fifty years, provides a thrilling experience. The Kahshe Lake Waterfront Committee often hosts an annual 5K Run and Fishing Derby, although it’s been challenging to organize such events during the pandemic. However, we hope to see a revival of these celebrations soon.

Exploring the area

Kahshe Lake’s proximity to Gravenhurst makes it an ideal spot for day trips. You can stock up your pantry or enjoy a night out in this small town. Gravenhurst boasts several excellent restaurants and the historic Gravenhurst Opera House, where you can catch a show.

Location
Official Name	Kahshe Lake
Local Names	Kah-she-she-bog-a-mog
County/District	Muskoka
Municipality	Town of Gravenhurst
Drainage Basin	Kahshe River
Latitude/Longitude	44.8636 N 79.2664 W

Physical Features
Surface Area (km)	8.28
Elevation (m asl)	243
Mean Depth (m)	5
Maximum Depth (m)	21
Perimeter (km)	60
Island Shoreline (km)	30
Clarity (m)	2.9

Land Use and Development
Crown Land (%)	5
Provincial Parks	Kahshe Lake Barrens Conservation Reserve, Jevins and Silver Lake Conservation Reserve
Shoreline Development	high; commercial, shoreline residential
Access	public; boat launch at west end of lake off South Kahshe Lake Road
Water Level Management	regulated; water level is controlled by MNR owned and operated dam at west end of lake; flows and levels are governed by Kahshe Lake Operating Plan

Fish Species
Major Fish Species	walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, black crappie, smallmouth bass, burbot, largemouth bass
Other Fish Species	grass pickerel, cisco (lake herring), brown bullhead, rock bass, pumpkinseed, yellow perch, white sucker, trout-perch, golden shiner, bluntnose minnow