Manitoba Winter Explorer Guide: 10 ways to go ice fishing

Posted November 10, 2022 | Author Kit Muir

Combine Manitoba’s numerous lakes with our cold winters and you’ve got ideal conditions for an incredible ice fishing destination! From close-to-Winnipeg day trips with angling outfitters to more remote all-inclusive lodge experiences, there’s a way for any angler, experienced or just getting started, to enjoy a day on the ice and reel in a monster catch. Here are a few outfitters, lodges, guides and destinations that will make your Manitoba ice fishing experience unforgettable.

Icebound Excursions

Central

One option for ice fishing Lake Winnipeg is Icebound Excursions. Icebound offers anglers the completely unique experience of heading onto the lake in the luxury of a SnoBear—a fully equipped mobile fishing shack. This allows the operator the ability to bring anglers out on the ice, no matter the weather or temperature.

City Cats

Central

Join the “Rock’N Roll Fisherman” himself, Todd Longley, on an ice fishing excursion near Gimli to catch huge walleye. With all equipment available upon request and a seat in the Ice Ridge Reaper Track Van, City Cats has got all they need to bring you to the best ice fishing spots on Lake Winnipeg.

Moak Lodge

North

On the shores of Cedar Lake, about 4 hours from Winnipeg’s north perimeter, is Moak Lodge, which offers excellent, modern accommodations to cater any group of ice anglers needs. The lodge is just 10 minutes from Foot Print Lake as well, an excellent option for anglers looking to ice fish a new body of water and catch four of Manitoba’s main stocked trout species—rainbow trout, tiger trout, brown trout and brook trout.

Prairie Gal Fishing

Central

Learn the basics of ice fishing, from operating an auger to fish identification with the day-long Women’s Fishing FUNdamentals with Prairie Gal Fishing. This guide also provides full-day all-inclusive experiences on Lake Winnipeg or the ability to rent just an ice shack for more experienced anglers. Feel empowered and explore their new Snowdog Adventures!

Evergreen Lodge and Resort

Central

Get your ice fishing fix on a multi-day trip at Evergreen Lodge and Resort. Stay in a private lakefront cabin at Clearwater Lake and spend your days on the ice with a guide who will also help process and package fish for you. Then at night keep your eyes open for the northern lights that are known to make frequent appearances in the sky over The Pas. It's easy to say you could be enjoying dinner and a show.

Bruin Outfitting

Central

On a Bruin Outfitting excursion, you don’t need to bring anything but the clothes on your back (which we hope are warm). This outfitter takes care of all the ice fishing necessities including shacks, rods, bait and tackle, drills all the holes and even cleans and cooks your catch. This outfitter’s primary target is giant Greenback Walleye on the famous Lake Winnipeg but they also have great opportunities for other species like giant Black Crappie and Pike.

Blackwater Cats

Central

Bringing both experience and passion to every trip, Blackwater Cats guides will help you reel in a monster catch. Cast your line for walleye on the Red River, Winnipeg River, and Lake Winnipeg. This outfitter can also supply all fishing equipment for any new anglers.

Bakers Narrows Lodge

North

Outside shot of ice fishing hut at Bakers Narrow Lodge.

Located in the Northern Region of Manitoba, Bakers Narrows Lodge is conveniently situated right off the paved highway on the shore of Lake Athapapaskow. The lake has consistently produced some of the biggest lake trout in Manitoba, making Bakers Narrows Lodge an obvious ice fishing hotspot. Within a short snow machine drive from the lodge, anglers can chase huge golden walleye, monster northern pike, and giant lake trout.

Cast your own line on Twin Lake

West

Close up of ice fishing rod.

Grab your gear and take a weekend trip to Twin Lake, near the Manitoba-Saskatchewan border. The lake is easily accessible with fishing spots within walking distance of tnew he landing and is known for its energetic tiger trout. Located just off of Highway 83, you can easily find a place to stay for the night in the nearby town of Roblin.

new to ice fishing?

Looking to try ice fishing for the very first time?

Patience is a virtue and waiting for the thrill of that first chilly catch is no exception. Curb the cold by packing a hot meal, warm gloves, appropriate footwear and of course, a toque! Enjoy the tasty delight of chicken soup in a thermos—it’s a classic.

Close-up of girl's face on a chilly Winnipeg winter day with fur hood and scarf.

About The Author

Hi! I'm Kit, a Franco-Manitobaine from the Interlake and a champion of the phrase "there's no place like home." If you see me out exploring the province, say hi! Or reach out at kmuir@travelmanitoba.com.

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