Canada Ice Fishing

Ice Fishing Tours, Guides and Rentals in Canada

Canada ice fishing tours, rentals and guides are available throughout our country in every province and in every territory, cold weather permitting. Wherever the rivers and lakes freeze over, and the ice is over 6 inches thick, there are many opportunities for ice fishing. Some ice fishing destinations are accessible with a guide only while others are easy-access self guided fishing.

Best Time to Ice Fish in Canada

Canada ice fishing is enjoyed on many of the major frozen lakes and rivers in Canada. It is most popular between the winter months of December and March after the snow has fallen, the temperatures have dropped and the waterways have frozen over in ice.The rule of thumb is that the ice needs to be at least 6 inches thick for safe ice fishing. 

Ice fishing Rules

In all instances fishing licenses are required and regulations are strictly enforced in Canada when it comes to ice fishing. In many areas of the country there are catch limits in place to protect from over fishing. Some areas operate on a catch and release bylaw - so research your fishing destinations. Tours and guides are knowledgeable in this area.

Types of Fish

Some of the fish caught during a Canadian ice fishing season include salmon, trout, perch, bass, pickerel, pike, walleye and others.  There are various ways to ice fish in Canada. Late in the season when the temperatures are not as cold locals tend to ice fish in the open with a lawn chair, a thermos of hot liquid and a bucket of fish beside them. However, most travelers prefer some level of comfort and prefer to ice fish in an ice shanty or temporary warming hut (ice fishing shack).

Tours and Guides

Ice fishing companies erect warming huts after the waterways have frozen over in ice. The shack is laced over a fishing hole drilled with an auger. Ice shacks vary greatly in size, amenities and comforts. Most include seating and a wood stove. The deluxe version of an ice shack may include power, beds, cooking area, stereo and lighting.

Canada Ice Fishing Rentals, Tours and Guides

Some Canada Ice Fishing Tips

- confirm what is included with ice shack tours.
- must have a fishing license.
- do not forget to bring a chair or something to sit on.
- prepare for very cold weather and, sometimes harsh conditions.
- prepare warm liquids in a thermos.
- pack a warm hat, neck warmer (scarf) and/or bella clava.
- pack an insulated jacket with a hood.
- pack good warm boots.
- wear contact lenses instead of glasses (glasses fog up).
- pack clothes that you can layer (up to 3 layers).
- tie pieces of ribbon to each zipper so you can zip with mitts on.
- sun glasses as it is bright when the sun reflects off the snow and ice.
- bring hand and foot warmers.
- do not ice fish alone on unfamiliar lakes (thin ice warning)

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