Size, Depth, Boating Suitability, Fish Species, Public Access & What It’s Known For
McCullough Lake is a multi use inland lake located in Chatsworth Township in Grey County, Ontario. Known for its natural surroundings, recreational boating, fishing, and wildlife habitat, it offers a balance between active lake use and quieter natural areas.
McCullough Lake: Quick Facts
Waterbody type: Natural inland lake
Location: Chatsworth Township, Grey County, Ontario
Surface area: Approximately 146 acres
Maximum depth: Approximately 52 feet
McCullough Lake is considered a moderate sized inland lake with a mix of seasonal cottages, year round homes, and undeveloped natural shoreline.
Depth
McCullough Lake reaches a maximum depth of approximately 55 feet, making it deeper than many smaller inland lakes in the area.
The lake includes a mix of shallow shoreline areas and deeper open water sections, which helps support recreational boating and a diverse fish population.
History and Formation
McCullough Lake was named after John McCullough, an Irish settler who arrived in the area during the early 1800s. Historical accounts note that he and his brother William settled on land surrounding the lake after arriving in Sullivan Township in the 1820s.
Over time, portions of the shoreline developed into cottage properties while other areas remained naturalized.
Fish Species in McCullough Lake
McCullough Lake is a popular recreational fishing lake.
Commonly targeted species include:
Yellow perch
Northern pike
Pumpkinseed
Smallmouth bass
Largemouth bass
The combination of shallow habitat, vegetation, and deeper water areas supports a range of warm water fish species.
Boating and Watercraft
McCullough Lake supports a variety of recreational boating activities.
Common uses include:
Powerboats
Pontoon boats
Canoes
Kayaks
Paddleboards
Fishing boats
The lake includes a public boat launch on the west side of the lake.
Chatsworth Township has implemented controlled access systems at the launch to help manage boating activity and improve safety on smaller lakes.
Public Access Map
McCullough Lake includes a public boat launch and access area located on the west side of the lake.
For general location reference, McCullough Lake can be viewed here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gvGpQnXvxsnDiLL29
Most of the remaining shoreline around the lake is privately owned.
What McCullough Lake Is Known For
McCullough Lake is known for:
Recreational boating
Bass and pike fishing
Wildlife viewing
A mix of cottages and year round homes
Natural shoreline areas and wetlands
A quieter atmosphere compared to larger recreational lakes
The lake also includes fish and wildlife habitat areas that can be explored by paddle craft. Swans, deer, and other wildlife are commonly observed around the shoreline.
A Local Perspective
McCullough Lake offers a balance that appeals to many different types of waterfront owners. It is active enough for boating and summer recreation while still maintaining a quieter, more natural feel than some of the busier lakes in the region.
The mix of open water, natural shoreline, and wildlife habitat gives the lake a strong connection to the surrounding Grey County landscape.
