New to kayak PDL fishing, Lake Simcoe

Hello - I have purchased a new PDL (pescadore pilot) and I'm itching to take it out fishing. I live in the Kitchener area. Does anyone have any lake suggestions ? Any advice for fishing Lake Simcoe on a PDL this time of year?

Welcome to the club!

First things first, I would download the GoPaddling app on your phone. This gives you detailed access to a ton of boat launches. I would try something local first before making a long journey to Barrie. Lake Simcoe is a great fishery, but I would avoid Kempenfelt Bay in the summer time on the weekend for your own safety. I do go out but there's a fair bit of fairweather boaters and seadoers that don't respect the lake or give a crap if you're on your 10-12' kayak.

I would try to find a smaller body of water and get you bearing on your vessel before going on big water. Also I reco not buying accessories until after a trip or two.

https://paddling.com/paddle/go-paddling-app

Guelph lake has no gas-motorized boats allowed and some fishing. It is a good place to try getting used to before facing boat wake. Same goes to Rockwood.
Belwood and Conestogo are to try the wake and better fishing
Then the sky is the limit:)

I have the Pilot as well, LOVE IT, very stable for a kayak, great for fishing but don't put too much faith in the "rod holders" behind your seat (ask me how I know)

Something I learned about the yak on my first fishing trip regarding weeds...the propeller loves to eat them and will bung up real quick if you're not careful.

I fashioned a pick out of an old screwdriver to pull the salad out from around the hub...saves me a bunch of time and agony when i get tangled. Have attached a lanyard and small holster to the seat for it. Essential piece of kit for me

EDIT: A tiny bit of light lubricant on the hinging parts of the drive unit will help prevent a squeak when you're pedaling that can get annoying

X2 and welcome aboard.

Arnie

I don't have a kayak, but I understand the Conservation area in Organgeville has some decent fishing opportunities. It's also a non-motorized waterbody. (Bass, Pike, panfish etc)

If/when you decide to venture out to the bigger lakes, I would also suggest flying a "high-vis" flag on your Yak - just to make it easier for boats to spot you.

Good luck - this is something I've wanted to get into for some smaller northern lakes I can't take my Nitro to.

Always check your wind just like going out in a boat pick only the nice calm days on the water wind and waves are even more dangerous than wakes caused by others in boats

I would recommend a flag pole so bigger boats see you and other people using the water many people don't have respect or brains .As people suggested smaller body of water to get some experience good luck and have fun.