Fishing
Alberta is an angler's paradise, attracting novices and experts with more than 600 lakes, 245 rivers and 315 spring-fed creeks and ponds. Whether you want to cast, troll or fly fish, get ready for a premium experience. Head out to our crystal clear lakes and sparkling streams—you won’t have to stop at the fish store on the way home.
Getting Started
Sportfish of Alberta shows you what kind of fish you will find here. The next step is to find out about Alberta’s provincial fishing regulations and licences/fees.
Alberta North
Up north, you’ll find stellar fishing for pike, walleye, perch, lake trout and Arctic grayling. Most of the lake areas are accessible from the main highways. Experience “drive and fish” at its finest on the largest vehicle-accessible lake in the province: Lesser Slave Lake, home to the Golden Walleye Classic, North America’s biggest walleye tournament. Looking for a more remote experience? There are fly-in fishing camps and Alberta fishing lodges for every budget. Many of the fly-in facilities use Fort McMurray as a jumping-off point.
Ice Fishing
If you can’t get enough of fishing in the summer, don’t stop. Ice fishing—also known as vertical jigging—is for novices and experts alike. Due to lower natural food production and increased fish interest in bait, ice fishing yields more whitefish and perch than in any other season. Also up for the challenge are pike, walleye, trout and burbot (ling).
Ice fishing can be done on most lakes and streams around the province. Depending on ice conditions, the season generally runs from December through April. Local anglers build temporary sheds on northern lakes or simply drill holes and drop in a line. Just be sure to check local regulations before you head out.
The Experts
Whether you’re a fly-fishing fanatic or a family looking for a new outdoor adventure, skilled guides can outfit you with all the gear, help you find the very best spots and pick just the right lure to land that big one. We have a large and varied list of local professionals who offer lodges, camps and expeditions, including half- and full-day trips. Complete details about holiday packages and more can be found at Alberta Angling Adventures. To find out more information on fishing operators in the North, see the following list.
Athabasca Reel Angling Adventures
Big Lake Country
Adventure Alberta
Big Fish Bay
McGrath Fish'n Cruise
Norm's Walleye Camp
Roland on the River
Fort McMurray & Wood Buffalo Region
Andrew Lake Lodge & Camps
Christina Lake Lodge
Grist Haven Lodge
Gypsy Lake Lodge 780-743-3176
Indian Head Camp
Island Lake Lodge
Mikisew Sport Fishing
Namur Lake Lodge
Winefred Lake Lodge
Grande Prairie
Kakwa River Fly Fishing
Mighty Peace Country
Caribou Mountain Wilderness/Margaret Lake Lodge
Riley J Outdoors
Tapawingo Lodge
Peace Valley Guest Ranch
Green Island Outfitters
