MANITOBA
After a week of colder weather, things have improved once again. It seems the fish have responded as well, with some great ice fishing in all sections of the province. One of the big stories this year has been the number of jumbo whitefish caught on Lake Winnipeg. For whatever reason for years anglers who targeted this fun sportfish had little success on Big Windy despite repeated efforts.
Anglers knew there was a good population, judging by the number caught in commerical nets. Suddenly the bite is on, most as incidental catches while targeting walleye. It might have something to do with the improved water clarity caused by the invasion of zebra mussels. Whatever the reason, it has been a great bonus for ice anglers in this part of the world.
Of course, probably the most famous spot for whitefish in the province is Clear Lake. While the action has slowed a bit since Christmas, check out this new lake length #1 whitey caught just before Christmas by Luke McNabb.
Many of our writers, myself included have spent a lot of time on Clear Lake chasing whitefish. There are also some huge bonus pike to be caught. Check out the article Hooked contributor Robyn Grant posted a while back. It’s a great read.
https://www.hookedmagazine.ca/master-angler-whitefish-on-the-mountain/
EASTERN MANITOBA
The crappies are still biting throughout the Whiteshell. It’s important that anglers try and ice fish in water less than 28 feet. Crappies deeper than that will suffer barotrauma and most are not releasable. Research has shown many will float up and die under the ice. That’s why, in many cases big pike will hang around to enjoy the easy prey.
NORTHERN MANITOBA – PETRO HRYNDA – HUNT/FISH MANITOBA
Lake Trout – The Ultimate Winter Game Fish
If you’re getting on the ice this winter, ice fishing for lake trout can be some of the most exhilarating fishing you can experience. The waterbodies that typically hold lake trout are deep, clear lakes that are late to freeze. By January, these lakes have frozen over and the incredible fishing they have to offer is accessible to all anglers. Whether you’re looking for cozy accommodations at one of the countless drive-to locations or a pristine backcountry adventure, there is something for everyone looking to experience the thrill of lake trout fishing.
Northern Manitoba offers several opportunities to target these fish through the winter. Athapapuskow Lake has been seeing some massive fish caught in the last few weeks, with recent reports of good travel conditions and a hot bite. Bakers Narrows Lodge provides top-notch accommodations on the lake for those looking to make the drive-to trip to experience all this incredible fishery has to offer.
Clearwater lake is another popular lake trout destination which sees countless 40 inch plus giants caught throughout the season. Located only a short drive from The Pas, Evergreen Lodge & Resort offer fantastic accommodations right on the shores of Clearwater Lake and Clearwater Outfitters knows the lake like no other. If you’re looking to experience a thrilling, drag peeling adventure, a trip to these world-class lakes is a must this winter.
Unique Catches of January
With the incredible variety of trophy sized fish Manitoba offers, there is always the opportunity to target different species and sometimes some that are less commonly caught through the ice.
This month, these anglers had some unique catches like this massive sturgeon out of the Assiniboine River and a huge largemouth bass out of Mary Jane Reservoir.
NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO
For those who love to explore the many lakes by snowmobile in Sunset Country there has been no shortage of snow. Slush and inconsistent ice has been a problem though, so caution is advised.
Jamie Bruce recently loaded up his machine and headed down to the mighty Wabigoon! This sprawling, stained lake has a excellent populations of multiple gamefish including crappies which you will see in the video Jamie posted recently.
SASKATCHEWAN
While the walleye and perch fishing has slowed down somewhat in the southern and central part of the province, some patience and moving around can pay off.
Hooked Fishing Report contributor and guide Rylan Parrot recently posted a rather unique video on one of his latest adventures.
ALBERTA FISHING REPORT – WES DAVID-FISHING THE WILD WEST T.V. SHOW
By the time you read this Alberta Fishing Report, the Calgary Boat & Outdoor Show February 10-12, at the BMO Center on Stamped Park will be underway. Outdoor enthusiasts can come to the Calgary Boat & Outdoor Show and book their next hunting or fishing trip or any other outdoor adventure they may be looking for.
Lodges from across Canada will be there, and you can book everything from a fly-out fishing trip of a lifetime in northern Saskatchewan to a fishing adventure of a lifetime for white sturgeon on the Fraser River. The show will also have a wide variety of hunting, camping, kayaking, and many other outdoor-related adventures and new outdoor products. And be sure to stop by the outdoor stage and take in one of the hunting or fishing seminars.
While you are at the Calgary Boat & Outdoor Show, you can also enter to win the grand prize trip of one full day of guided Sturgeon fishing on the Fraser River (with breakfast & lunch on the boat). Two roundtrip flights (from Calgary, AB to Abbotsford BC with transportation to and from Harrison Resort & Spa) and 2 nights of double occupancy at the Harrison Resort & Spa. Good luck and I hope to see you there!
The weekend of February 18, 19, & 20, Family Day Weekend, is Alberta’s free fishing weekend. The province of Alberta splits its fishing week into two parts and calls them fishing days. Winter fishing days are held each year in February in conjunction with the Family Day long weekend. This year’s summer free fishing days are the weekend following Canada Day July 7-9. During Alberta’s winter and summer fishing days, anglers can enjoy fishing without an Alberta fishing licence. However, all fishing regulations, catch limits, and any other special Alberta regulations must still be followed.
Ice fishing is one of the easiest and most affordable ways for families to come together in a meaningful way. Ice fishing is also one of the finest teaching tools parents and gardens have to help our youth and new anglers, regardless of their age acquire a solid appreciation for the outdoors, our fisheries, and the environment. How important is hunting and fishing to Canada? Hunting, fishing and related sports generate millions of dollars into the Canadian economy each year and this is our chance as Canadian residents to take part in a free fishing weekend.
Don’t be caught indoors on Family Day weekend. Plan a fishing trip with your family and friends and enjoy one of Alberta’s many lakes, reservoirs, or ponds, and remember to practice catch and release so others can enjoy.