Alberta Ice Fishing Guide: What to Know Before You Go

You likely didn’t realize that an activity could be so relaxing and so thrilling at the same time.

Ice fishing in Alberta offers the best of both.

You won’t have a worry in the world as you settle into a seat, either in the cozy confines of a tent or shelter or as you enjoy the stunning scenery under these bright blue skies. But as soon as there’s a nibble at the end of the line, your heart will be racing — in a good way.

Alberta is famous for its fishing, and with the right gear and safety know-how, it can be a year-round pursuit. Depending on your location and the arrival of winter temperatures, ice fishing season typically runs from December until about April.

If you’re a less experienced angler, or if the only fish you’ve ever scooped was from the meat cooler at your local grocery store, your Alberta vacation could be prime time to try something new. Beginner’s luck applies out here. Just be warned, you’ll likely be immediately hooked.

“Alberta is a great place to ice fish because we have this awesome variation of water, water depth and then species of fish,” says Jerry Holik, who offers guided ice fishing experiences as the owner/operator of Nature’s Getaway Mountain Resort in Nordegg. “You can go to Sylvan Lake or to Slave Lake and you can fish for walleye and fish for whitefish and perch. And then the next weekend, you can come out to the mountains, like Nordegg, and you can fish for lake trout and bull trout and cutthroats.”

“That’s what makes it super cool. It’s advantageous to be in Alberta to be able to do that.”

Here are your need-to-knows for an ice fishing adventure in Alberta.

Why should I go with a guide?

The most obvious perk is that a local guide will be able to share their secrets on where to find the fish — or ‘the action,’ as many like to call it — and the most effective strategies for landing them, but it goes well beyond that. Safety should always be the top priority and a guide will ensure the ice is thick enough, steer you away from potential problem areas and know how to react in dangerous situations. Your guide may have access to a heated hut or shelter and could bring along the latest and greatest gizmos, like sonar units or cameras that will reveal what’s happening below the surface.

What equipment is required for ice fishing in Alberta?

The first essential is an auger, a tool to drill a hole through the ice. You can skip your workout if you choose to use a manual or hand auger, although an electric or gas-powered model would save you a bunch of time and effort, which means more of the fun stuff. You’ll also need an ice fishing rod and reel. These are shorter in length than your summertime rod, plus made of materials that can handle the frigid temperatures. The list of must-haves also includes a comfy seat, a rod holder, basic tackle and bait and a scoop or skimmer to remove slush from your fishing hole. While it’s not a necessity, a tent or shelter will offer protection from the wind and elements. Most airlines will allow you to travel with your own fishing equipment, and you might even make a new friend as you wait for that beloved luggage to be delivered. If you prefer to pack light, many of the same companies that offer guided experiences also rent the required gear.

What should I wear when ice fishing in Alberta?

Remember, you wouldn’t be ice fishing if not for freezing weather, and you will have a whole lot more fun if your fingertips and toes aren’t starting to numb from the cold. Be sure to bundle up and dress in layers, with an emphasis on warm and waterproof. Among the most important items are reliable boots and gloves/mitts that can repel the occasional splash. You’ll look like a pro in bibs, but snow pants should do the trick if you don’t own any specialized gear. A thermos, filled with soup or a warm beverage, would be a wise addition.

What and where can I fish in Alberta?

Alberta is home to hundreds of lakes, although not all accessible in the winter, and more than 65 species of fish. Whether you’re chasing a certain species or planning around proximity to other attractions, you really can’t go wrong. Lesser Slave Lake has a reputation as a hotspot for walleye and Cold Lake is best-known for its lake trout, but that could also be a burbot, northern pike, whitefish or yellow perch at the other end of your line at either lake. Sylvan Lake is a popular beach escape in the summer and an angler’s paradise when it ices over. There are options not too far from the big cities, like Star Lake or Wabamun Lake near Edmonton or Crawling Valley Reservoir near Calgary. Many anglers beeline for the mountains, where you can enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery as you fish for bull, lake and rainbow trout. Among the many possibilities are Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes, Spray Lakes and Shunda Lake, which is also known as Fish Lake. Abraham Lake, which is a hit on Instagram thanks to its unique methane bubbles, is best experienced with a guide.

Is a permit required for ice fishing in Alberta?

All anglers require a Wildlife Identification Number, or WiN card, which carries a one-time fee of only $8. Unless you are under the age of 16, over the age of 65 or otherwise exempt, you will also need to purchase an Alberta sportfishing license, with a variety of available lengths — from one day to one week to a full year. You can find all the requirements and forms online.

Why will you be hooked on ice fishing in Alberta?

That auger creates a window to a whole new world — with the right lighting, you’ll be mesmerized by the sight of your targets swimming below the surface. It’s a really cool feeling, no pun intended, to pull a fish from the ice, and if you’re joined by family or by close friends, the bonding between bites is just as special. Ice fishing is both beginner-friendly and kid-friendly, making it a memorable day for your full crew. As long as you are dressed for the weather, it truly is hard to beat the combination of fresh air and stunning scenery on Alberta’s various lakes. And how impressed, or jealous, will your Instagram followers be when you post a photo of your trophy catch?