22 Best Fishing Destinations In Canada

Written by Veronique Raes
Updated on
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From Coast to Coast, Canada offers a wide variety of unparalleled fishing destinations. Each province provides beautiful and unique natural wonders and geography. Whether it’s the pristine waters of the country’s northern lakes, the exciting ocean fishing on the east and west coast, or the fast flowing waters of the prairie rivers, Canada offers a multitude of destinations whose beauty and mystery will be forever be imprinted on their visitors.

1. Tree River – Nunavut

Tree River - NunavutSource: ants stern / Shutterstock
Tree River – Nunavut

Journey to the edge of the continent to visit this unique and remote river for an experience like no other. Tree River is one of the most spectacular and pristine sections of wilderness on earth, and supports the best Arctic Char fishery in Canada. This type of Salmon is uniquely colored with a mix of deep green and vibrant red. Orange and blue dots dapple the sides of the fish. Though the Char is elusive, fishing for them in this beautiful, wild land, will be an experience you never forget.

2. Queen Charlotte Islands – British Columbia

Queen Charlotte IslandsSource: Chase Clausen / Shutterstock
Queen Charlotte Islands

Visit the ancestral homeland of the ancient Haida. Perched on the edge of the continental shelf, these mist covered islands are steeped in natural and cultural history and have an air of wonder and adventure surrounding them. A wide range of wildlife call the islands home. The mystical islands offer some of the world’s finest Salmon fishing, as vast schools make their home on the island’s shoreline.

3. Eagle lake – Ontario

Eagle lake - OntarioSource: Gordon Pusnik / Shutterstock
Eagle lake – Ontario

Located in the heart of Cottage Country in northern Ontario, the fishing at Eagle Lake is unparalleled. True Canadian wilderness provides for beautiful scenery. A plethora of wooded islands dot the massive lake. At almost one hundred km long, Eagle Lake supports a wide variety of species. Northern Pike, Walleye, Trout, Small Mouth Bass, and Perch are common. Eagle is perhaps best known for its Muskellunge fishing. Deemed “the fish of ten thousand casts,” these elusive and beautiful fish can grow up to seventy pounds. Situated in close proximity to the cities of Kenora and Dryden, and dotted with a wide variety of campgrounds and lodges, Eagle Lake is great for a solo getaway or for a family vacation.

4. Reindeer Lake – Saskatchewan

Reindeer Lake - SaskatchewanSource: Kara Gebhardt / Shutterstock
Reindeer Lake – Saskatchewan

Named for the large herds of caribou whose winter migration brought them to the lake, Reindeer Lake is one of the most fascinating bodies of water you will ever fish. The ninth largest lake in Canada, Reindeer holds something for nature lovers, historians, geologists, and fisherman alike. The beautiful breathtaking scenery is resplendent in the unspoiled Saskatchewan North. Some of the rock formations around Reindeer are Precambrian, the oldest on earth. The famous Deep Bay, a site of a meteorite strike over 140 million years ago is over 700 feet deep. Local legend has it that it is home to a lake monster. Fisherman are drawn to the area for the pristine waters and the variety of fish they support. Lake Trout, Northern Pike, Walleye, and Arctic Grayling, among other species, make the lake their home.

5. The Cranberry Lakes – Manitoba

The Cranberry Lakes - ManitobaSource: CBarbsGo / Shutterstock
The Cranberry Lakes – Manitoba

Explore the beautiful Cranberry lake system in northern Manitoba. Consisting of three large lakes, each body feeds into the other and contains diverse and varied terrain. Enjoy the closed in bays and cabbage weed beds of First Cranberry, the 200 foot depths of Second Cranberry, and the narrows of Third Cranberry. Fishing the Cranberries can be an exciting and frustrating experience. The lakes are known for the quality of their trophy size fish, not necessarily the quantity. If you can find the right spot, get ready to pull out Northern Pike with shoulders, trophy Walleye, and massive Lake Trout. The lake system is also home to many portage lakes for canoers and kayak enthusiasts and numerous beautiful islands for exploring.

6. Wolf Lake – Yukon

Wolf Lake - YukonSource: tripadvisor
Wolf Lake – Yukon

Adventure into the pristine and remote wilderness of the Yukon. Surrounded by tundra, misty mountains and beautiful wooded lowland, is Wold Lake. Experience true tranquility while enjoying the phenomenal fishing. Trout up to sixty pounds have been caught on Wold Lake. Northern Pike fishing is excellent. Wolf Lake also supports the rare Arctic Grayling, a smaller fish with a beautiful fanlike fin on its back. Wolf River, which flows from Wolf Lake, is thought to be one of the best Grayling fisheries in the world. Additionally, a wide variety of birds and animals call the area home. Eagles, moose, caribou, wolves, bears, and lynx may all be spotted. The Northern Lights are a breathtaking experience not be missed in the Yukon.

7. Red River – Manitoba

Red River - ManitobaSource: Adrien Le Toux / Shutterstock
Red River – Manitoba

If you are looking to try your hand at the frustrating and thrilling experience that is catfish angling, the muddy waters of the Red River is the place to do it. Named because of their cat like whiskers, the stout head and gaping mouth of the catfish is repulsive to some and distantly beautiful to others. The average catfish in the Red River weighs 15 pounds but can range up to 40 pounds. Landing one isn’t for the faint of heart. If you’re looking for a unique challenge, the catfish is willing to provide it and fishing the Red River is a must.

8. Fraser River – British Columbia

Fraser River - British ColumbiaSource: SchnepfDesign / Shutterstock
Fraser River – British Columbia

The impressive Fraser River is the longest in British Columbia, spanning almost 1400km. If you’re looking for some astonishing fishing and some breathtaking scenery, the Fraser River is the place to be. Salmon fishing in the Fraser is unparalleled, as the world’s largest Salmon migration occurs in these swift waters. Sturgeon fishing in the Fraser River is renowned worldwide. If you haven’t had a chance to try your hand at fishing for these giant, prehistoric looking fish, the experience is one you will never forget.

9. North Lake – Prince Edward Island

North Lake - Prince Edward IslandSource: Kevin Baillie / Shutterstock
North Lake – Prince Edward Island

Dubbed “the Tuna capital of the world,” North lake is located on the eastern shore of Prince Edward Island.  North Lake boasts spectacular views and white sand beaches. Visit the harbor to take in the quant boatsheds or visit the Observation Tower. Charter a deep see fishing vessel and try your hand at wrangling in a monster sized tuna. These fish usually average between 600-1200 pounds. If fishing isn’t quite your thing, scenic cruises are also offered.

10. Vancouver Island – British Columbia

Vancouver Island - British ColumbiaSource: Russ Heinl / Shutterstock
Vancouver Island – British Columbia

The waters surrounding Vancouver Island offer a multitude of exciting fresh and salt water fishing opportunities. Hundreds of sparkling, crystal clear fresh water lakes and streams dot the island; both a fly fisherman’s and nature enthusiast’s dream. If ocean fishing is something you’ve always wanted to try, the Island is your dream destination. Massive halibut, Pacific Salmon, Sole, Snapper, crab and prawns are just some of the many species you can try your hand at fishing.

11. Great Slave Lake – Northwest Territories

Great Slave Lake - Northwest TerritoriesSource: GeGiGoggle / Shutterstock
Great Slave Lake – Northwest Territories

Great Slave Lake is the deepest lake in North America, at 2014 feet. It’s the second largest lake in the Northwest Territories and the tenth largest lake in the world. From heavily wooded shores to the icy tundra, Great Slave Lake offers an unforgettable experience in the land of the midnight sun. The lake supports Arctic Grayling, Northern Pike, Trout, and Whitefish. Some of the best fly fishing you will ever do in your life will be at Great Slave Lake.

12. Thousand Islands – Ontario

Thousand Islands - OntarioSource: FlorianKunde / Shutterstock
Thousand Islands – Ontario

Reported to have been the inspiration behind the name of the popular Thousand Island Dressing, the Thousand Islands consist of 1864 islands in the St. Lawrence River. Ranging in size from over 40 sq. miles to uninhabited rocky outcrops, this area is a unique destination. Many castle like structures, unique homes, and lengthy bridges dot the islands. Straddling the Canada and Us Border, both the Ontario side and the New York side have government parks that offers a wide range of activities. Golfing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, and other activities are available. The parks also offers many unique dining and shopping opportunities. Cruise tours are also available for the area. The waters are known for their trophy sized Salmon, and Trout, as well as Walleye, Bass, and Muskie.

13. Bow River – Alberta

Bow River - AlbertaSource: Sky Light Pictures / Shutterstock
Bow River – Alberta

The Bow River offers some of the best Trout fishing in the world.  The Upper Bow River, flowing near Banff and Canmore offers fast moving, clear waters and is considered by many one of the most beautiful places in the world to Trout fish. Rugged mountains frame your backdrop as you try your luck at hooking a Brown Trout.  The premium section of the river is considered to be the Lower Bow River. Running through Calgary, this section contains approximately 2500 fish per mile. Both Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout are actively fished. If you’re looking to try fly fishing, or purse an already existing love, the Bow River is a must.

14. Kispiox River – British Columbia

Kispiox River - British ColumbiaSource: Christian Heiling / Shutterstock
Kispiox River – British Columbia

Located in mid British Columbia, the Kispiox River is world famous for producing the largest strain of wild Steelhead Trout. These beautiful and unique silver trout have a long pink stripe on their side of their body and a large pinkish red markings on the side of their head. All fishing on this river is catch and release only. Try your hand at landing one of these rare and unique fish while enjoying the breathtaking backdrop of mountains and forest.

15. Lake Superior Provincial Park – Ontario

Lake Superior Provincial Park - OntarioSource: pavels / Shutterstock
Lake Superior Provincial Park – Ontario

The Provincial Park covers 1600 sq. km along the eastern shore of Lake Superior. This beautiful park, lake, and river system offers something for everyone. Breathtaking scenery, fabulous canoe and kayak routs, trails, camping, beaches, and waterfalls are all available. Lake Superior is home to over 34 native species of fish. Often considered one of the finest Brook Trout fisheries in all of North America, other species including Rainbow Trout, Salmon, Northern Pike, Walleye, and Splake also make the lake their home.

16. North Saskatchewan River – Saskatchewan/Alberta

North Saskatchewan River - Saskatchewan/AlbertaSource: Tatsuo Nakamura / Shutterstock
North Saskatchewan River – Saskatchewan/Alberta

This beautiful glacier fed river flows over eight hundred miles all the way from the Rocky Mountains of Alberta to the wheat fields of the Saskatchewan prairies. The river has a long history, as it was used as a major trade route for centuries. Fishing on this fast flowing river can be a varied experience. If you can find a place to get down to the river, even in small town Saskatchewan in the heart of the prairies, there is still the opportunity to catch Sturgeon. The opportunity is elusive, but pulling out one of these large, prehistoric looking fish, can be a thrilling, unforgettable experience.

17. Great Bear Lake – Northwest Territories

Great Bear Lake - Northwest TerritoriesSource: photos martYmage / Shutterstock
Great Bear Lake – Northwest Territories

Lying hundreds of miles from civilization, astride the Arctic Circle, Great Bear Lake is the largest lake located entirely in Canada. The fourth largest lake in North America, Great Bear is fished by less than three hundred lucky people each year. The indescribable beauty of the North is an experience not to be missed. Deemed the land of the midnight sun, breathtaking sunsets and heart stopping displays of Northern Lights are common. The wildlife in the area are plentiful and unique. You may be lucky enough to spot a caribou, a bear, or even a muskox. The Lake Trout and Arctic Grayling fishing at Great Bear Lake are unrivaled.

18. Terra Nova National Park – Newfoundland and Labrador

Terra Nova National Park - Newfoundland and LabradorSource: Shzphoto / Shutterstock
Terra Nova National Park – Newfoundland and Labrador

Extending across 400 sq. km, Canada’s easternmost national park offers a wide breadth of natural beauty and activities. Kayak, canoe, or boat among whales and icebergs. Spectacular coastline and beautiful bays offer abundant Trout and Salmon fishing. Inland, over 100km of hiking trails await. From forests and meadows, to jutting cliffs and rolling hills, the Terra Nova National Park is not to be missed.

19. Lake Diefenbaker – Saskatchewan

Lake Diefenbaker - SaskatchewanSource: Pictureguy / Shutterstock
Lake Diefenbaker – Saskatchewan

Lake Diefenbaker came into existence with the creation of Gardiner Dam, officially opened in 1967. One of the world’s largest earth filled dams, Gardiner Dam is a site to behold in its own right. Extending for approximately 5000 meters, and standing 65 meters tall, the dam discharges an impressive 7,500 cubic meters of water a second.  If you want to see the dam in all is glory, you can check out the kilometer long spillway. The lake is also stellar for fishing. Sixteen years ago, half a million Rainbow Trout escaped from a fish farm on the lake. Now, monster size trout dwell in the warm waters below the dam. Lake Diefenbaker holds the World Record for the largest Rainbow Trout ever caught, weighing in at 48 pounds. The bays around the lake also boast trophy Walleye and Northern Pike fishing.

20. Besnard Lake – Saskatchewan

Besnard Lake - SaskatchewanSource: yfbc
Besnard Lake – Saskatchewan

Dubbed “the lake of many islands,” Besnard is a unique and beautiful body of water in Norther Saskatchewan. Offering over 188 miles of shoreline, Besnard is fed by the Mercier River. These fast flowing waters are the spawning grounds for Walleye. Experience the true beauty of the north while taking in some excellent and varied fishing. Spend hours in sheltered bays, fish for walleye off the rocks, find a bed of weeds for Northern Pike. Hunt down the perfect island for shore lunch. At the end of the day, breath taking sunsets illuminate the sky.

21. Fond du Lac River – Saskatchewan

timber wolvesSource: Volodymyr Burdiak / Shutterstock
timber wolves

One of the upper branches of the Mackenzie River system, Fond Du Lac River is a remote region which boasts spectacular Walleye, Northern Pike, Arctic Grayling, and Lake Trout fishing. The River is only accessible by float plane. Witness untouched wilderness like never before. The River flows through the Boreal Forest and the breathtaking Sandstone Gorges. Moose, bear, timber wolves, and caribou call the area home. Sparkling beaches and exciting class one and two rapids await.

22. Black Lake – Saskatchewan

Black Lake - SaskatchewanSource: ridography731 / Shutterstock
Black Lake – Saskatchewan

Journey to the unspoiled north to try your hand at fly fishing for Arctic Grayling, or angle for Northern Pike and Walleye. From the beautiful landscape to the sandy beaches, Black Lake is a unique area rich with history. Plentiful wildlife can also be spotted in the area, making it a true wildlife photographer’s paradise.



22 Best Fishing Destinations In Canada:

  • Tree River - Nunavut
  • Queen Charlotte Islands - British Columbia
  • Eagle lake - Ontario
  • Reindeer Lake - Saskatchewan
  • The Cranberry Lakes - Manitoba
  • Wolf Lake - Yukon
  • Red River - Manitoba
  • Fraser River - British Columbia
  • North Lake - Prince Edward Island
  • Vancouver Island - British Columbia
  • Great Slave Lake - Northwest Territories
  • Thousand Islands - Ontario
  • Bow River - Alberta
  • Kispiox River - British Columbia
  • Lake Superior Provincial Park - Ontario
  • North Saskatchewan River - Saskatchewan/Alberta
  • Great Bear Lake - Northwest Territories
  • Terra Nova National Park - Newfoundland and Labrador
  • Lake Diefenbaker - Saskatchewan
  • Besnard Lake - Saskatchewan
  • Fond du Lac River - Saskatchewan
  • Black Lake - Saskatchewan