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7 Fishing Spots in Alberta Every Angler Should Know About
Fishing is one of the best things to do in Alberta because it can be done throughout all the seasons of the year. Of course, nothing beats fishing during the spring season, but wintertime is my favourite because it offers a different challenge.
Regardless of which type of angler you are, however, you have to know the best spots to fish in Alberta if you want to have a good time—that’s where we come in! Listed below are some of our favourite fishing spots in Alberta and why we love them.
Whether you’re looking for tough battles or chill fishing sessions with the fam, you’ll find something here to your liking!
North Saskatchewan River
Media credit: ziongaloutdoors
Address: Garden River No. 490
Best time to go: Late summer, fall and spring
Common catches: Walleyes, northern pikes, lake sturgeons
If you ask any expert angler in Alberta which fishing spot offers the most diverse species of fish, they’ll most likely answer with the North Saskatchewan River. We can’t blame them too, as it’s filled with whitefish, rainbow trout, walleyes, and northern pikes!
It also provides anglers with a scenic backdrop while fishing, featuring views of the surrounding lush forests and rolling hills. Furthermore, the river itself is breathing in its own right, as it’s calm and reflective of the surrounding views.
Lastly, the river is always in a great state thanks to the local regulations and the fishing community’s effort to conserve it. Speaking of, the lake’s community is thriving, often holding fishing derbies where you can connect and learn from other enthusiasts!
Pro tip:
Try looking for rock formations in the lake because these are where different types of fish love to hide. You can also cast your reel in deep waters for more chances of getting a bite.
Lake Newell
Media credit: imfahim90
Address: Newell County No. 4
Best time to go: Summer and Winter
Common catches: Lake whitefish, walleyes, northern pike
Lake Newell is an underrated fishing spot that’s also great to visit all year round because of its abundance of fish species. For instance, during spring and fall, you can expect to catch tons of walleyes while winter becomes the best time to reel in northern pike.
The spot itself is a manmade lake reservoir, but it looks like it’s been landscaped by nature itself, with its beautiful surrounding grasslands. This is especially true during the wintertime, as it slowly becomes covered with a thick blanket of snow.
Aside from the various types of fish, you may also encounter other beautiful wildlife here like pronghorns and mule deer.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking to head further into the lake, one of the most accessible spots to launch your boat from is at the Kinbrook Island Provincial Park.
Crawling Valley Reservoir
Media credit: kirdygirl
Address: Newell County No. 4
Best time to go: Winter and Spring
Common catches: Walleye, northern pike, yellow perch
Crawling Valley Reservoir is dubbed the “Walleye Wonderland,” so set up your fishing pole here if you’re looking for a slightly challenging but rewarding catch! However, this nickname doesn’t give the reservoir justice, as it’s also abundant with northern pike and yellow perches.
We also recommend Crawling Valley Reservoir for beginners, as it offers natural and comfy fishing spots for anglers. Of course, you can always embark on your boat for a more productive session, but for those who are looking for a more relaxing experience, this is a huge deal!
It’s also a great family destination because of its scenic views and calm waters, which allow younglings to get their start on the hobby. Furthermore, there are plentiful facilities in the area including picnic spots and restrooms.
Pro tip:
Consider staying at the Crawling Valley Campground if you want to get first dibs on the best catches in the reservoir!
Bow River
Media credit: flyfishingbowriver
Address: 2 Heart Mountain Dr
Best time to go: Late spring to fall
Common catches: Rainbow trouts, brown trouts, northern pike, rocky mountain whitefish
OG Anglers from Alberta know that Bow River is one of the best fishing spots in the city because of its dense population of trout. In fact, enthusiasts from outside Canada visit the country just to fish here because of this very reason!
With that being said, it’s pretty hard to leave this place without any catch because of the various spots around the river that offer high concentrations of fish. The river also boasts various shallow spots where you can try your hand at fly fishing!
Bow River is also among the most Instaworthy fishing spots in the country, so be sure to bring your cameras! There’s a mountainous spot in the river that’s perfect for taking photos but this is also where the least trout activity—a worthy exchange!
Pro tip:
If you want to see the most scenic views and take the most breathtaking photos, we recommend walking towards the Policeman Flat’s. It’s where you’ll find bigger fish too!
Maligne Lake
Address: Improvement District No. 12, AB, Canada
Best time to go: Late spring to late fall
Common catches: Rainbow and brook trouts
Maligne Lake should be on your itinerary even if you’re not planning on fishing because it’s the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. Plus, it offers some of the most breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains of Alberta you can ever enjoy while fishing.
Views aside, however, you’ll get to experience one of the most productive fishing sessions here thanks to the abundance of trout swimming across its 22-km span. You can also paddle to the middle of the lake to find more activity from the schools of fish.
Aside from fishing, you can also enjoy wildlife spotting in Maligne Lake thanks to its resident animals like moose and ducks.
Pro tip:
Keep an eye out for unexpected closures on Jasper National Park’s official website to avoid wasting your drive here!
Lesser Slave Lake
Address: Slave Lake
Best time to go: Winter, spring and summer
Common catches: Burbot, yellow perch, walleye
Lesser Slave Lake is one of the most reliable fishing spots throughout the year because of the variety of species it offers during different seasons. For instance, ice fishing during the wintertime will grant you more chances to catch yellow perches!
Meanwhile, walleye is great to catch all year long, as they pose a moderate challenge and can be found through different seasons. However, don’t be limited to these species, as this lake is also home to whitefish and burbot!
Pro tip:
Consider coming here during summertime so you can cool off by the lake and enjoy the sandy beach area.
Cold Lake
Media credit: amandalynnmayhew
Address: Cold Lake
Best time to go: Early spring, late fall, winter
Common catches: Lake trout, walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, burbot, lake whitefish
If you’re a fan of comic books, the quaint town of Cold Lake may sound familiar to you, as it’s where the Marvel superhero, Wolverine, was born. An equally marvellous fact about this place that isn’t fiction, however, is that someone once caught a lake trout that weighed 52 pounds.
Aside from trout, you can also get your hands on some meaty walleyes throughout the year, but if you choose to fish during the winter, be ready for tons of yellow perches!
The lake itself is highlight-worthy, as it offers a scenic backdrop and an overall serene atmosphere for anglers. Plus, the city of the same name features a vibrant fishing community where you could gain valuable insight.
Pro tip:
If you visit during the summertime, make sure to stop by Kinsoo Beach! It’s a family-friendly destination that kids can enjoy thanks to the waterpark and the shallow waters.
