Fishing in Nunavut: Top Species and Best Spots

Nunavut is Canada's newest, largest, and most remote territory. Fishing here is not for everyone — it requires significant travel, expense, and preparation. But for those who make the journey, Nunavut offers some of the most pristine and productive fishing in the world. Arctic char is the star, but the territory also offers exceptional lake trout, Arctic grayling, and brook trout fishing.

1. Baker Lake (Arctic Char)

Best time: July through August

Baker Lake is the heart of Nunavut's Arctic char fishing. The lake and its surrounding river systems, including the Thelon and Kazan rivers, host one of the largest Arctic char populations in the world. Char in the Baker Lake system average 5-10 pounds, with larger fish available. The fishing is based out of the community of Baker Lake, which offers lodge accommodations and guided trips. The char run up the rivers in July and August, providing spectacular fishing in a true Arctic setting.

2. Rankin Inlet Area (Arctic Char & Brook Trout)

Best time: July through August

The Rankin Inlet area, on the western shore of Hudson Bay, offers excellent fishing for Arctic char and brook trout. Several rivers in the region, including the Ferguson and Wilson rivers, host healthy char runs. Brook trout are found in the colder streams and provide excellent light-tackle fishing. Rankin Inlet is the largest community in Nunavut and offers the best infrastructure for visiting anglers, including flights from Winnipeg and several lodging options.

3. Kiglavaq River (Arctic Char)

Best time: July through August

The Kiglavaq River, flowing into the Arctic Ocean near Kugluktuk, offers excellent Arctic char fishing in a stunning tundra setting. The river's short, powerful run produces large, brilliantly coloured char that average 5-10 pounds. The Kiglavaq is a fly-in destination, accessed through lodges that operate on the river. The char run is concentrated in July and August, providing intense fishing during the short Arctic summer.

4. Soper River (Arctic Char)

Best time: July through August

The Soper River, flowing through Katannilik Territorial Park on Baffin Island, offers spectacular Arctic char fishing in a unique Arctic oasis. The river valley is sheltered and supports lush vegetation, a rarity in the Arctic. The Soper River's char run is healthy, with fish averaging 4-8 pounds. The river is accessible from Kimmirut or Iqaluit and is a popular destination for multi-day canoe and kayak trips that combine fishing with wilderness exploration.

5. Koukdjuak River (Arctic Char)

Best time: July through August

The Koukdjuak River, on Baffin Island near the community of Qikiqtarjuaq, offers excellent Arctic char fishing in a remote Arctic setting. The river's powerful flow and long run produce large, powerful char. Fish in the 5-12 pound range are common. The Koukdjuak is a fly-in destination, with lodges operating on the river. The fishing is strictly catch-and-release to protect the resource. This is a destination for serious Arctic char anglers.

6. Baffin Island Lakes (Lake Trout & Arctic Char)

Best time: July through August

The countless lakes on Baffin Island offer excellent fishing for lake trout and Arctic char, with the advantage of easier access than many other Nunavut destinations. Lakes near Iqaluit and Pond Inlet are popular options. Lake trout in these cold, deep lakes grow slowly but can reach impressive sizes. Arctic char are found in lakes that connect to the sea. Fishing on Baffin Island offers the unique opportunity to combine angling with experiences of Inuit culture and Arctic wildlife.

7. Back River (Arctic Char & Lake Trout)

Best time: July through August

The Back River, flowing through the barrenlands of mainland Nunavut, is one of the most remote and pristine rivers in Canada. The river offers exceptional fishing for Arctic char and lake trout. The char run up from the Arctic Ocean in July and August, providing spectacular fishing. Lake trout in the river's deeper pools can reach impressive sizes. The Back River is a true wilderness destination, accessible only by float plane. Multi-day canoe trips down the river are a classic Arctic adventure.

8. Kazan River (Arctic Char & Arctic Grayling)

Best time: July through August

The Kazan River, flowing through the Keewatin region, offers excellent fishing for Arctic char and Arctic grayling. The river's clear, cold water and classic pool-riffle structure provide ideal habitat for both species. Char in the 4-8 pound range are common. Arctic grayling are abundant throughout the upper river and provide excellent dry fly fishing. The Kazan River is accessible by float plane from Baker Lake or Rankin Inlet and is a popular route for multi-day canoe trips.

9. Dubawnt River (Arctic Char & Lake Trout)

Best time: July through August

The Dubawnt River, flowing through the barrenlands of mainland Nunavut, offers remote fishing for Arctic char and lake trout. The river's pristine waters and remote setting provide a true wilderness experience. Char run up from the Arctic Ocean in July and August. Lake trout are present in the deeper sections and provide excellent sport. The Dubawnt River is a challenging destination to reach but rewards those who make the effort with exceptional fishing and solitude.

10. Wager Bay (Arctic Char)

Best time: July through August

Wager Bay, on the northwest coast of Hudson Bay, offers excellent Arctic char fishing in a unique tidal environment. The bay's estuaries and river mouths host healthy char runs, with fish averaging 4-8 pounds. Wager Bay is part of the Ukkusiksalik National Park, offering a protected wilderness setting. The area is accessible by boat from Chesterfield Inlet or by float plane. The combination of Arctic char fishing, unique geology, and wildlife viewing makes Wager Bay a special destination.

Fishing Tips for Nunavut

• Get a licence — All anglers 18+ need a Nunavut fishing licence. Contact the Department of Environment in Iqaluit. Non-resident licences are available online.
• Plan extensively — Nunavut fishing requires significant planning. Fly-in lodges book years in advance. Flights are expensive and weather-dependent. Budget accordingly and build flexibility into your schedule.
• Hire a guide — Local guides and outfitters are essential for navigating Nunavut's remote waters and understanding regulations and safety considerations.
• Prepare for Arctic weather — Even in July, Nunavut can experience near-freezing temperatures, wind, and snow. Bring warm layers, a quality waterproof jacket and pants, and insulated boots.
• Respect the communities — Nunavut's communities are small, remote, and have deep cultural traditions. Respect local customs, ask permission before travelling through Indigenous lands, and support local guides and businesses.

Published July 2026 by the CatchTales team.