During the warm days of summer, nothing beats sitting out on the boat or on the shore, spending time with family friends and hopefully catching some fish.
Fishing provides a great opportunity for family & friends to spend some time together and, so long as you don't get carried away in the tackle store, can be an affordable activity.
With two large rivers, smaller streams, and lakes all around, Winnipeg provides plenty of opportunity for some angling fun. Keep in mind that the water is quite high this year. You may want to be prepared to check out spots first, or ready to head to another location.
Here are our top 5 favourite spots to wet a line:
This large park, located on the banks of the La Salle River, is just south of the city off of Waverly. So long as water levels are good this can be a fun spot for fishing. Walleye, Sauger, and Catfish are all a possibility here. Best of all, Black Crappie can often be found here; these small sunfish provide a lot of fun for young & old alike. Kids can use a small rod & micro jigs and have no trouble landing these small but feisty fish.
OK, we'll admit that this spot is on the list not so much for the fishing, but because you can make a quick run to BDI: Bridge Drive-In. This is a fun spot to target Winnipeg's famous Goldeye (the fish, not the ball team). You can go after these fish with a simple float, small hook, and corn!
If you're up for a small adventure with the family, you can get to the stocked trout ponds of Reynolds Ponds within an hour of the East Perimeter. Trout can be a tricky fish to be successful with, especially if you don't have fly fishing gear. But, throw some small marshmallows on a hook and you just might surprise yourself. Plus how much fun will the kids have fishing with marshmallows? If you get skunked you've got plenty of campfire snacks to make up for it!
Honestly, you will often have luck anywhere on the Assiniboine and Red within city limits. What makes the Riverwalk better than other spots? Accessibility! If mobility is a concern the Riverwalk provides a number of accessibility points so that the entire family can enjoy their time together. Washrooms, and The Forks nearby, are also bonus points.
If you want non-stop action then Lockport is where you want to be. Just 28 KM north of the city, you'll find a variety of species here. People often land monster cats here; this is a world-renowned fishery in our own backyard! There are some great food and ice cream options nearby, too. This is a great weekend afternoon or summer evening option, with a nice drive down Henderson Highway. It can get pretty busy at times, but you're guaranteed to catch some fish.
Some tips for fishing fun in Winnipeg & Manitoba
- You can now purchase an angling license online.
- This should really be a given for Manitoba in the summer, but bring bug spray! Although if you go without the bug spray the mosquitos you'll attract are big enough for bait.
- Kids 15 & under, as well as adults 65 & older fish for free in Manitoba.
- Make sure you're familiar with the laws & regulations before you head out. The 2022 Manitoba Angler's Guide is available here.
- Take a garbage bag with you! Not only does this ensure that you can clean up after yourself, but you can always pick up after others too. It's a great way to teach your kids about creation care.
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