The land of pristine frozen lakes, Canada transforms into a paradise for ice fishing enthusiasts every winter. The icy waters offer the perfect mix of chill and thrill for anglers of all skill levels.
Ice fishing is an opportunity to enjoy the serene beauty of winter, spend quality time with friends and family, and experience a slower pace of life, even if just for an afternoon. With a bounty of fish species and picturesque landscapes, Canada offers some of the best ice fishing spots in the world. Here’s a guide to a few must-visit destinations.

1. Lake Simcoe, Ontario
Known as the “Ice Fishing Capital of Canada,” Lake Simcoe is a popular destination just an hour’s drive north of Toronto. It’s an ideal spot for both beginners and seasoned anglers, with a variety of fish species like perch, lake trout, whitefish, and northern pike. The lake’s ice fishing huts, gear rental options, and on-ice transportation make it a comfortable experience even in frigid temperatures.
2. Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba
Lake Simcoe may be the world’s ice fishing capital, but Lake Winnipeg has definitely earned the moniker “The Walleye Capital of the World.” The lake’s southern basin is famed for its massive walleye and vast, snow-covered expanses, making ice fishing a true adventure. Lake Winnipeg is a bucket-list destination for anyone seeking trophy-sized fish. You’ll also find rainbow trout, northern pike, lake trout, and yellow perch.
3. Great Slave Lake, Northwest Territories
For those looking to combine ice fishing with a true wilderness experience, Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories is the perfect spot. The deepest lake in North America, it is home to an array of fish, including lake trout, arctic grayling, and northern pike. While the remote location may require a bit more planning, it’s worth it for the pristine beauty and the chance to catch fish that are truly remarkable in size and quality.
4. Tobin Lake, Saskatchewan
A reservoir on the Saskatchewan River, Tobin Lake is a favourite among anglers for its trophy-sized northern pike and walleye. Located near Nipawin, Saskatchewan, this lake has seen record-breaking catches over the years, particularly throughout February and March. Ice fishing tournaments held here often draw anglers from across the country, and local guides and rental services are readily available, ensuring a hassle-free experience for all visitors.
5. Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade, Québec
Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade is a must-visit destination for ice fishing enthusiasts, offering a one-of-a-kind experience: tomcod fishing. This charming village transforms into an ice fishing village every winter, with hundreds of colourful huts lining the frozen Sainte-Anne River. The fishing here is family-friendly, with tomcod often biting within minutes of dropping a line. The festive atmosphere, combined with the ease of fishing, makes Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade a winter highlight in Québec.
6. Cold Lake, Alberta
Cold Lake, located on the Alberta-Saskatchewan border, is a sprawling lake renowned for its lake trout, whitefish, pike, burbot, and even some elusive walleye. The frozen expanse of the lake provides plenty of space for solitude or social fishing with friends. Local guides and rental services make it easy for visitors to set up ice huts and explore the best fishing spots.
Whether you’re chasing walleye in Manitoba, pike in Saskatchewan, or simply soaking up the wintry vibes on Lake Simcoe, Canada’s ice fishing spots offer something for everyone.

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