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All about the Best Fishing Spots in Canada
If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that Canada boasts a plethora of absolutely amazing fishing spots. From coast to coast, this beautiful country offers all kinds of angling opportunities that’ll have you reeling with excitement.
In this list, we’ve rounded up the top fishing spots in Canada, which are sure to provide you with unforgettable experiences and possibly even a catch for the record books.
So read on, grab your gear, and get ready to cast your line in some of the most epic fishing destinations Canada has to offer!
Do you need a licence to fish in Canada?
Yes, most of the fishing spots in Canada require you to bring your fishing licence whenever you go out and about in the waters.
Here’s a handy little table about fishing licences and fees in these beautiful Canadian locations.
| Location | Requires Fishing Licence | Approximate Fee Range (Boat Rentals, Gears, etc.) |
| Lake of the Woods | Yes | Fee range is about CAD $10 – $50, depending on the type (annual or short term). |
| North Lake | Yes | Expect to shell out between CAD $10 – $20. |
| Ucluelet | Yes | Fee range hovers from CAD $10 – CAD $55. |
| Lac Seul | Yes | Here, the fees will cost you about CAD $10 – $50. |
| Miramichi River | Yes | Be ready to part with a neat CAD $10 – $30 for these. |
| Fraser River | Yes | Here, you’re looking at about CAD $10 – $55 for fees. |
| Lake Winnipeg | Yes | Fee range is a comfy CAD $20 – $70. |
| Reindeer Lake | Yes | Wriggle out CAD $20 – $70 of your pocket for these babies. |
| Lake Huron | Yes | Once again, it’s the familiar CAD $10 – $50. |
| Eagle Lake | Yes | Fee range sticks to around CAD $10 – $50. |
Keep in mind that these prices are approximate and may change. It’s always best to check the current local rules and regulations before you go. Catch you later!
Our 10 Favourite Fishing Spots in Canada
Lake of the Woods, Ontario
Lake of the Woods is a massive, sprawling lake that stretches across the Ontario-Manitoba border and is home to more than 14,000 islands. Can you say “paradise for anglers”?
You’ve got a plethora of fish species to choose from here: Walleye, Northern Pike, Lake Trout, and Smallmouth Bass, to name a few. The diverse underwater terrain makes it perfect for all sorts of fishing techniques, so there’s really no limit to the fun you can have.
Another fantastic thing about Lake of the Woods is that you can fish here year-round. That’s right—both summer and winter fishing opportunities await you!
| Local tip: If you’re in the area around August, check out the annual Kenora Bass International tournament. Watching expert anglers showcase their skills and even participating yourself is a whole lot of fun! |
North Lake, Prince Edward Island
Known as the “Tuna Capital of the World,” North Lake in Prince Edward Island is the place to be if you’re looking to hook a giant Bluefin Tuna.
The abundance of tuna might be extremely tempting, but you’ll need nerves of steel to reel in these giants, which can weigh over a whopping 1000 pounds!
Aside from being the go-to spot for tuna fishing, North Lake also boasts a delightful community atmosphere. The locals are known to be super friendly and are always eager to share their fishing knowledge and stories.
| Local tip: While in North Lake, consider visiting the nearby beaches and lighthouses for a little sightseeing break—the views are breathtaking! |
Ucluelet, British Columbia
Nestled along the shores of Vancouver Island, Ucluelet, in British Columbia, is a must-visit spot for those looking for thrilling saltwater fishing. Here, you’ll find some of the most robust Chinook Salmon and Pacific Halibut populations in the world.
As you cast your lines in the pristine waters here, you’ll likely come across various marine mammals like seals, sea lions, and even whales! It’s this unique combination of fishing thrills and picturesque natural beauty that makes Ucluelet truly unforgettable.
| Local tip: If you’re visiting Ucluelet between June and August, be sure to spend a day exploring the nearby Wild Pacific Trail—it’s a hiker’s paradise! |
Lac Seul, Ontario
Lac Seul is known as the “Walleye Capital of the World” because of its exceptional Walleye fishing opportunities. Thanks to a thriving fish population, you’ll find anglers all year long making the pilgrimage to this picturesque lake.
It’s not just Walleye, though; Lac Seul is also an excellent spot for Northern Pike, Muskie, and Yellow Perch.
With its crystal-clear waters and diversified underwater structure, Lac Seul offers plenty of challenges and rewards for both novice and advanced anglers.
| Local tip: While exploring the lake, watch out for eagles and other incredible wildlife that calls the Lac Seul area home. |
Miramichi River, New Brunswick
The Miramichi River in New Brunswick is regarded as one of the most productive Atlantic Salmon rivers in the world, attracting thousands of enthusiastic anglers eager to land the “king of fish.”
Here you’ll find a variety of fishing lodges and outfitters catering to every angler’s needs.
This river is even a haven for fly-fishing enthusiasts, with its ideal mix of pools, riffles, and runs that make the perfect conditions for your salmon-fishing dreams to come true.
| Local tip: While in the area, make sure to explore nearby attractions in Miramichi City, including the Beaubears Island Interpretive Center and Ritchie Wharf Park. |
Fraser River, British Columbia
The Fraser River is one of the greatest river systems in all of Canada and holds the outstanding reputation of being the best spot for Sturgeon fishing.
Sturgeons are, of course, those absolute monsters that look like they swam straight out of prehistoric times—a dream for any hardcore angler!
The river covers vast expanses from the Rockies down to the Pacific coast. I mean, it’s so big that it’s actually the longest river within British Columbia.
| Local tip: If you’re around in the fall, join in for some beautiful Salmon runs—just a heads up, it gets pretty crowded! |
Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba
Lake Winnipeg is famous for its fantastic Walleye and Sauger fishing, and truth be told, it rightfully deserves its place among the greatest fishing spots in Canada. Surrounded by vast, open landscapes, the lake provides a fishing backdrop like no other.
The Walleye in particular are abundant here, with an excellent bite and impressive sizes. Not to mention, Saugers provide fantastic opportunities for fishing fun during those colder months.
It’s not all easy-breezy, though. Navigating through Lake Winnipeg can be quite challenging due to its size and sporadically unmarked hazards. But let’s be honest—if there’s anything we anglers love, it’s a good challenge, eh?
| Local tip: Due to those pesky hazards I mentioned earlier, hire a guide for your first outing to ensure a smooth and successful fishing adventure. |
Reindeer Lake, Saskatchewan
Reindeer Lake is a lesser-known gem that boasts absolutely incredible fishing. It’s often touted as one of Canada’s best-kept fishing secrets, and for good reason!
Northern Pike, Lake Trout, Walleye, Arctic Grayling—you name it, Reindeer Lake’s got it! The fishing here is truly diverse.
You could literally be reeling in a trophy Pike one minute and, in the next, be engaged in a tug of war with a Lake Trout!
| Local tip: The many lodges in Reindeer Lake offer excellent amenities for a multi-day fishing adventure; they are definitely worth considering if you want to maximise your fishing time. |
Lake Huron, Ontario
One of the Great Lakes, Lake Huron, boasts crystal-clear waters and some seriously good Bass fishing opportunities. Whether you’re a fan of Smallmouth or Largemouth Bass, you won’t be disappointed.
Now, fishing in Lake Huron isn’t just about sitting back and soaking your bait. With such a vast and varied underwater topography, you can experiment with techniques like fly fishing, trolling, or jigging, ensuring each day out on the waters is a new adventure.
| Local tip: Try out some night fishing for Bass during the summer months—it’s a different but rewarding experience! |
Eagle Lake, Ontario
Sitting pretty in Cottage Country, Eagle Lake offers some of the best Muskie fishing you’ll ever find. It’s been said that Eagle Lake is home to more 30-pound Muskies than any other lake in the world, so you know you’re in for a real treat!
Other species like Walleye, Northern Pike, and Lake Trout are also abundant and provide fantastic angling opportunities. The lake’s diverse range offers plenty of space to explore and reel in those big catches.
| Local tip: Muskies can be quite tricky to catch, so make sure to equip yourself with some sturdy gear and patience! |
