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Southern
Saskatchewan is semi-arid country. Creeks
and streams swell with water from melting snow and spring
rain only to dry up, often completely, in late summer.
And yet, right through the middle of this water-starved
land flows the South Saskatchewan
River, a treasure lode of good quality water.
From early times, settlers looked for ways to make better
use of this "liquid gold". What if you could
store the river's bounteous waters and use them to nourish
crops and supply thirsty towns and cities ...
In 1959, the dreams of a reliable water supply became
a reality as construction began on Canada's
largest earth fill dam, the Gardiner Dam, and the smaller
Qu'Appelle Dam. Designed and constructed by the Prairie
Farm Rehabilitation Administration, with 25% provincial
funding, the project was completed eight years later.
The resulting reservoir, Lake
Diefenbaker,
now supplies water for power generation, irrigation, recreation,
fisheries, wildlife and municipal and industrial use throughout
a wide area of southern Saskatchewan.
In fact, more than a third of the province's population
depends on Lake
Diefenbaker
as a source of water.
FISHING
Every year thousands of fishermen toss their hooks in
the waters of Lake
Diefenbaker
hoping to snag the big one. Here they cast their lures
for fish that live on in memory - the big ones that didn't
get away. World Record fish have been pulled out of these
waters.
Saskatchewan
is home to some of the best competitive fishing
events in Canada.
And tournaments at Lake
Diefenbaker
are no exception; these tournaments offer exciting competition,
large cash prizes and a combination of added activities
to make the event fun for everyone.
A
whole new world of adventure awaits once the snow falls
and the lake freezes over. Ice fishing is not just for
those who can't get enough of the sport, it's also a great
pastime for people looking for a little quiet time.
More and more anglers world-wide are practising "catch
and release". You still get the thrill of a strike
by a real lunker and keep a few smaller fish for the frying
pan. By releasing mature and trophy fish you have the
added satisfaction of knowing you are adding to conservation
efforts and contributing to an enhanced fish population.
Catch and release is easier on you and the fish if you
use barbless hooks.
WATER SPORTS
There are 75 members and their families that make up the
Lake Diefenbaker Yacht Club. The club calls the marina
at Elbow its home base. The club is predominantly larger
keelboat owners, with an increasing number of large powerboats
joining the fleet. The pristine waters, miles of white
sand beaches and steady winds make for a club of cruisers.
There are 3 race events during the season and a number
of organized and spontaneous cruises to the various destinations
on the lake.
Lake
Diefenbaker and
the Lakeside Marina is approximately 2 kms west of the
town of Elbow,
just past the the golf course. Elbow is on Highway 19,
approximately 50kms west of Davidson, 130kms south of
Saskatoon, and about 190kms
north of Regina.
Lakeside
marina is a full service marina, having both gas and diesel
available on the service dock, along with fresh water
and pumpout facilities. The marina holds 150 boats, with
most docks rented for the season, however there a number
available for day use. The town of Elbow nearby has stores
well stocked with most items you would need for cruising
on the lake, and those who prefer some golf with their
boating, Harbourview Golf Club is adjacent to the marina.
Lake
Diefenbaker
experiences some of the best winds on the prairies for
sailing. Generally moderate steady winds are the norm,
with occasionally periods of heavy winds. The lake is
fairly narrow so wave height is reduced, so that boats
can sail with maximum performance.
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(Updated
April, 2008)
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