Fishing in Canada
Fishing in Canada ranges from battling salmon in wild Pacific rivers to jigging for walleye in vast inland lakes.
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Canada Fishing Guide
Canada’s fishing opportunities stretch across thousands of miles of coastline, countless rivers, and millions of lakes. On the west coast, British Columbia offers Pacific salmon, halibut, and lingcod fishing both offshore and in sheltered fjords. Moving inland, the Prairie Provinces are home to legendary walleye and northern pike fisheries in lakes and reservoirs. Ontario and Quebec deliver world-class freshwater fishing for smallmouth bass, muskellunge, and lake trout. In the far north, remote fly-in camps in Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon give anglers access to trophy Arctic grayling and massive lake trout. On the east coast, the Atlantic provinces have a rich mix of cod, mackerel, and tuna fishing along rugged shores and deep offshore waters.
The fishing season in Canada varies greatly with latitude and region. Ice fishing dominates in many inland areas from December through March, while open-water seasons run from spring through fall. On both coasts, migratory species like salmon and tuna have peak runs during specific months, drawing anglers from around the world. Local charter operations range from small aluminum boats on inland waters to fully outfitted offshore vessels targeting big game in the Atlantic and Pacific. Popular techniques include trolling, jigging, fly fishing, live bait drifting, and casting from shorelines or piers. Many anglers also explore Canada’s backcountry waters by canoe or kayak, chasing fish in settings untouched by roads or development.
Fishing Seasons in Canada
Spring
As ice breaks up, walleye, northern pike, and lake trout become active in warming shallows. Coastal rivers in British Columbia see early salmon runs, and steelhead fishing peaks in many areas. Atlantic mackerel start to move closer to shore in the Maritimes, offering easy access from small boats and piers.
Summer
Warm months bring peak freshwater fishing across much of the country. Bass fishing takes off in southern Ontario and Quebec, while muskellunge hunters work weedy bays and river mouths. On the Pacific coast, Chinook salmon runs are in full swing, while offshore tuna fishing gains momentum in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Northern fly-in camps open for trophy lake trout and Arctic grayling.
Fall
Cooling water temperatures trigger aggressive feeding in walleye, pike, and trout. Coho and chum salmon flood coastal rivers in British Columbia, while Atlantic salmon runs draw anglers to Newfoundland, Labrador, and the Gaspé Peninsula. Inland, big muskellunge remain active until freeze-up, offering some of the year’s best action.
Winter
Ice fishing season dominates across most provinces, with anglers targeting walleye, perch, northern pike, and lake trout through drilled holes. Popular destinations include Lake Simcoe in Ontario, the Prairie reservoirs, and shield lakes in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. In coastal areas, winter steelhead fishing continues in rivers that remain ice-free.
Top Fishing Regions in Canada
- British Columbia – Known for Pacific salmon, halibut, lingcod, and steelhead, with fishing from coastal towns to remote rivers.
- Ontario – Famous for walleye, smallmouth bass, muskellunge, and lake trout, with easy access to thousands of lakes.
- Quebec – Offers Atlantic salmon, lake trout, pike, and bass fishing in both urban and remote wilderness settings.
- Nova Scotia – Prime spot for bluefin tuna, mackerel, and cod, with strong inshore and offshore fisheries.
- Newfoundland and Labrador – World-class Atlantic salmon rivers and rich cod fishing grounds.
- Manitoba – Renowned for trophy northern pike, walleye, and lake trout in remote northern lakes.
- Saskatchewan – Offers excellent walleye, pike, and trout fishing across its many lakes and reservoirs.
- Alberta – Popular for lake trout, walleye, and mountain stream trout fishing.
- Yukon – Remote fly-in fishing for giant lake trout and Arctic grayling.
- Northwest Territories – Home to Great Slave and Great Bear lakes with record-class trout and pike.
Top Gamefish in the Canada
- Atlantic Salmon – 5 to 30 pounds. Found in Atlantic rivers and coastal waters, best in summer and fall, taken by fly fishing and drifting.
- Chinook Salmon – 10 to 50 pounds. Pacific coast rivers and offshore, best from summer to early fall, trolled or drifted with bait.
- Coho Salmon – 5 to 15 pounds. Pacific coast and rivers, peak late summer to fall, taken by casting, trolling, or fly fishing.
- Lake Trout – 5 to 40 pounds. Deep inland lakes nationwide, best spring and fall, jigged or trolled.
- Walleye – 1 to 15 pounds. Lakes and rivers across central and eastern provinces, peak spring and fall, taken by jigging or live bait.
- Northern Pike – 5 to 25 pounds. Found in most freshwater systems, best spring and fall, caught by casting or trolling.
- Smallmouth Bass – 1 to 6 pounds. Southern Ontario, Quebec, and Maritime lakes and rivers, best summer, taken by casting or jigging.
- Muskellunge – 10 to 50 pounds. Ontario and Quebec lakes and rivers, best late summer to fall, taken by trolling or casting large lures.
- Arctic Grayling – 1 to 3 pounds. Northern rivers and lakes, best summer, fly fished or drifted with small lures.
Canada Fishing FAQs
Do I need a fishing license in Canada?
Yes, all anglers require a valid fishing license for the province or territory they are fishing in.
What is the best time to fish in Canada?
The best time varies by species, but summer offers peak fishing for most freshwater species, while coastal salmon runs have specific seasonal peaks.
Where is the best salmon fishing in Canada?
Top salmon destinations include British Columbia’s coastal rivers and the Atlantic salmon rivers of Newfoundland and Labrador.
How much does a fishing charter cost in Canada?
Charter prices range from about $150 for half-day inland trips to over $1,000 for full-day offshore big game fishing.
Can I fish in Canada without a guide?
Yes, many areas are accessible for self-guided fishing, though remote waters often require fly-in transport or local knowledge.
What gear should I bring for Canadian fishing trips?
Gear depends on target species, but most anglers bring medium spinning or baitcasting outfits for freshwater and heavier rods for saltwater species.
Are there catch limits in Canada?
Yes, each province and territory sets species-specific catch and possession limits to protect fish stocks.
Is ice fishing safe in Canada?
Ice fishing is safe when done on solid, measured ice and with proper cold-weather gear. Many communities maintain marked ice roads and huts.
Can families fish together in Canada?
Yes, many lakes, rivers, and coastal areas offer family-friendly fishing spots with easy access and amenities.