Did you know that ice fishing is one of the most popular pastimes in Canada? With over 7,500 kilometres (4,500 miles) of pristine lakes and rivers, and with most of them freezing over, the country offers bountiful opportunities for anglers to embrace the icy season. With so many fantastic spots to choose from, it can be a challenge to know where to start. That’s where we come in.
Whether you’re cozying up in a heated hut or braving the cold on a snowmobile, we’ve got you covered. We’ll run through what we think are the top ice fishing destinations in Canada this year.
But before you grab your gear and head out, always check the ice conditions to ensure your safety. Temperatures vary and the ice needs to be at least 10 centimetres thick before you can walk on it. Now you know that, it’s time to discover where you should head!
Kamloops, BC
Kicking off our list of the best ice fishing destinations is a newcomer that’s sure to impress. Kamloops is known as the “Tournament Capital of Canada” and lives up to its original name – T’kemlups – which translates to “the meeting of waters”. With over 100 lakes in the vicinity, it’s hard to choose just one place to visit. Instead, we’ll try and cover a few of the best spots below…
Adjacent to Coquihalla Highway and surrounded by lodgepole pines lies Walloper Lake. A beginner- and family-friendly lake, the most popular catch here is Rainbow Trout – a favourite for all anglers! Just a 40-minute drive further, and you’ll find Edith Lake. Popular with fly fishermen and trollers in warmer weather, this hidden gem is stocked with even more Trout, thanks to the Brook varieties that complement the Rainbows.
Another must-visit spot for those of you looking to reel in some big catches is Paul Lake. Regularly stocked with Rainbow Trout, it’s a popular destination throughout the year. The best times to head out are early morning or late afternoon when the light is low. This is as close as it gets to the perfect conditions for a successful catch.
If you’re tired of fishing, Kamloops comes alive in winter with other outdoor thrills. Whether you’re gliding down the slopes at nearby Harper Mountain or Sun Peaks Resort, or trekking snowy trails through the stunning Thompson Valley, there’s no shortage of activities. For a different experience, catch a Blazers hockey game. Meanwhile, you can warm up at one of the town’s charming eateries after any ice-themed activity!
Lake Simcoe, ON
You don’t have to travel far from a big city to reach a world-renowned ice fishing destination. Just 80 kilometres north of Toronto lies Lake Simcoe. Ontario’s fourth-largest lake has a reputation to uphold. Known as the ice fishing capital of North America, it’s rumoured that more people go ice fishing here than anywhere else on the continent!
It’s no surprise, then, that there are many top spots to visit for you keen ice anglers… Cooks Bay is a favourite thanks to its sheltered waters and fish galore. Perch, Bass, and Pike will be waiting for you to drop a line. For a more peaceful vibe, head over to Virginia Bay. Here, the calm atmosphere is perfect for reeling in Lake Trout and Perch. And don’t miss Port Bolster, a picture-perfect area with a tight-knit community and plenty of fish to keep you busy!
Given the popular nature of ice fishing here, you’ll have plenty of options for a successful catch. Hire a guide to take you out or, if you like to fish in comfort, choose one of the many ice hut rentals available. If ice huts aren’t your style, there are plenty of inns and cabins that provide both comfort and convenience, too.
Of course, Lake Simcoe isn’t just about fishing. The area is a winter playground offering plenty of activities for thrill seekers. You’ll find fantastic snow facilities nearby, including downhill and cross-country skiing at Blue Mountain, Snow Valley, Mount St. Louis, and more.
Lake Saint Pierre, QC
Moving east we come to Lake Saint Pierre. Here, the mighty St. Lawrence River unfolds into a maze of nearly 100 islands. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a wildlife paradise, home to the largest colony of Great Blue Herons in North America. Whether you’re here for the views, unique wildlife, or some quality time on the water, this is a go-to destination for both adventurers and anglers.
Often referred to as the “Bayou of the North” due to its archipelago of islands and marches, it’s home to a variety of species including Pike, Walleye, Yellow Perch, Whitefish, Muskellunge, and Bass. Pike especially can be found in all the waters of the lake, but they’re particularly fond of the shallow areas. With 68% of all of Quebec’s freshwater fish swimming here, this lake is a prime destination for ice fishing.
Before you start, make sure to obtain the proper permits and follow the rules and regulations set up by the AFC du lac Saint-Pierre. Certain species, like Yellow Perch, are protected by a fishing moratorium. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the catch limits and fishing periods to ensure sustainability.
In addition to fishing, there are plenty of activities to try out nearby during winter. For the more adventurous, there’s snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and dog sledding. But this is just a part of what you can expect from the activities here. You won’t run out of things to do, that’s for sure!
Lake Winnipeg, MB
Stretching 270 miles from north to south, Lake Winnipeg is the twelfth largest freshwater lake in the world. Known for its vast and peaceful waters, it’s a perfect spot for those seeking solitude from the crowds. Despite its popularity as one of the top ice fishing destinations in Canada, the lake’s size offers plenty of remote areas to enjoy some quiet time.
Both skilled anglers and those trying out the activity for the first time are sure to have a great time here. Its accessibility and excellent “fishability” make it easy to reach and enjoy, no matter how you travel. Be mindful of the harsh weather though, as the “Big Windy” can make fishing challenging during January and February. However, the upside of these conditions is fewer crowds and a better chance of landing a trophy catch!
Walleye is the ultimate catch here, with the lake being notorious for some of the best fishing on the continent. Alongside Walleye, anglers can also target Pike, Yellow Perch, Rainbow Trout, and Crappie. Make sure you’re sporting a fishing license, and, if you want to keep the fish, check the regulations thoroughly.
For some great views visit the Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park or head over to the Wildlife Viewing Tower for the chance to observe the local flora and fauna and snap some dazzling photos. If you’re craving a bit of urban charm, make sure to check out the restored Hecla Village. Named after an Icelandic volcano, this is the best place to dive into the area’s rich history.
Lake Diefenbaker, SK
One of Canada’s largest artificial lakes, it’s no surprise that Lake Diefenbaker is one of the best ice fishing destinations in the country. This body of water is known as a hot spot for record-breaking fish year-round. And with a vast shoreline and numerous areas, there’s enough space for every angler.
You can expect to reel in a variety of popular species in winter, including giant Walleye, monster Pike, Perch, Whitefish, Lake Trout, and Burbot. Catching Burbot is quite an experience here, causing some serious fishing action. These deep-dwelling fish are most active after dark, offering a thrilling challenge for anglers, much like Walleye. Sturgeon also roam these waters, and, while you won’t usually encounter them in winter, it’s good to know that you don’t need a special permit to target them. But there’s a strict catch-and-release policy with a limit of zero, so you can’t keep any you catch.
The thrill comes not only from reeling in Pike or Walleye but from braving the elements and enjoying the quiet moments between catches. Whether you’re new to the sport or you’re an experienced angler, this lake has a variety of fishing opportunities to match any skill level.
For those seeking a proper winter adventure, try camping in the cold. There are several different styles to suit your preferences, including hot tenting, cold tenting, front country, and back country. A great way to begin is by car camping, which allows you to bring extra gear as you figure out what works best for you.
Gull Lake, AB
You could write an encyclopedia on the lakes of Alberta, but Gull Lake would still stand a cut above the rest. Just an hour and a half drive from Edmonton, this hub of freshwater game fish only requires a hole in the ice and some decent gear to reel them in. Ice fishing here is a breeze – pun intended! It’s easy, fun, and, above all, productive.
Whitefish is the top target in these waters and, once you locate a hotspot, you’ll quickly reach your 10-fish limit. Northern Pike and sizable Burbot are also frequent catches at this time of year. Gull Lake sees a lot of action during the winter months, so expect busy weekends on the ice. With a maximum depth of 26 feet, its shallowness makes for both easy and rewarding fishing. For the best results when targeting all of these species, try using live bait like minnows, waxworms, or artificial lures.
Just 10 minutes away from the city, there’s the Canyon Ski Resort, Alberta’s largest non-mountain downhill resort. It provides a fun outing for families, especially those with kids. If skiing isn’t your thing, embrace classic Canadian winter fun with snow-tubing and tobogganing – or try snowshoeing. Later, take the family out to explore the Waskasoo Park Trails for an exciting adventure.
Grand Lake, NB
Located in the heart of the Maritimes, Grand Lake is the region’s largest natural lake. Laying just 2 metres (7 feet) above sea level, this gorgeous gem is not just a feast for the eyes, but also a great ice fishing destination. Its rich, abundant waters attract anglers from across North America, eager to reel in a variety of game fish. For those seeking “grand” fishing in natural surroundings, Grand Lake is the place.
You can expect to catch a variety of sought-after fish here, including Trout, Yellow Perch, Chain Pickerel, and Pike. Ice fishing for Pike and Perch is especially popular. However, as always with ice fishing, safety is key! It’s recommended to head out with an experienced guide, who will help you find the best spots and ensure that the ice is thick enough for a safe and fruitful experience.
Every winter, Grand Lake hosts the Tri-Lake Ice Fishing Tournament for anglers. It’s an event you won’t want to miss! Held on Grand Lake/Keyhole along Route 690, the tournament draws competitors from near and far, offering a fun and thrilling atmosphere. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, you’ll enjoy the lively competition, gorgeous winter views, and the chance to reel in some big catches.
Grand Lake, NL
Moving on, we have another destination with the same name of Grand Lake, this time in Newfoundland and Labrador. As the largest lake on Newfoundland’s interior, this body of water is home to Glover Island, the eighteenth largest lake-island in the world. This area also operates one of the rare 30-minute time zones, being 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic time and 90 minutes ahead of Eastern time. Weird, huh?
While Grand Lake doesn’t fully freeze over in winter, there are still great spots for ice fishing. Explore the shallow bays and inlets where the ice tends to be more reliable. These areas offer good chances for a productive day on the ice, where the top catches include Brook Trout, Lake Trout, and occasionally Panfish. Brook Trout is a prized catch for local anglers, and you can easily hook 5–8 lb lunkers.
Wintertime around here is full of adventure for everyone. Head to Robbins Family Farm near Deer Lake to meet some friendly animals, or explore hiking trails with stunning ocean views and the chance to spot puffins and whales. Newfoundland’s fjords and marine preserves offer even more breathtaking sights, while local traditions like Old Christmas Day and Pancake Night add a festive touch to your stay.
Lake George, NS
Last, but certainly not least, we have a beautiful and peaceful lake in Nova Scotia. Located near Kings County, Lake George is known for its peaceful surroundings that offer a relaxing retreat for visitors. Surrounded by lush forests it’s a perfect spot for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
When it comes to fishing, Lake George is known for its Brook and Rainbow Trout. While not widely recognized as a top ice fishing destination, local anglers still venture out during the colder months when conditions allow. The quieter setting makes it an appealing location for those seeking a more laid-back experience and we always like to suggest fishing somewhere new and untouched!
Aside from fishing, the lake offers a variety of fun activities. Visitors can enjoy the nearby trails for winter hikes or explore the snowy scenery on snowshoes. The surrounding area also has a few local spots to warm up and enjoy stunning views of the countryside.
And Many More…
We’ve only scratched the surface of the Great North’s incredible ice-fishing destinations. There are countless more to be explored! Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, we hope this list helps inspire your next adventure. Still on the fence? Take a look at last year’s guide to uncover even more hidden gems!
Have you been to any of the places we featured? Maybe you have a different favourite ice fishing spot in Canada? If you have any questions or tips for those venturing out onto the ice for the first time, we’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
