Lake Trout Fishing in Canada's Northern Lakes

Lake trout are the undisputed kings of Canada's northern waters. These cold-water predators can live for 50+ years and grow to massive sizes — fish over 50 pounds have been caught in Canadian waters. Here's where and how to catch them.

About Lake Trout

Lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) are a char species native to northern North America. They require cold, well-oxygenated water and are found in deep lakes across Canada, from the Great Lakes to the Arctic Circle. They're the largest member of the char family and can reach weights exceeding 70 pounds in the right conditions.

Top Canadian Lake Trout Destinations

1. Great Bear Lake, Northwest Territories

Great Bear Lake is the eighth largest lake in the world and arguably the best lake trout destination on the planet. The lake's cold, pristine waters produce trophy lake trout that regularly exceed 30 pounds. Fish over 50 pounds are caught here with some frequency. The lake is remote — accessible only by float plane — but the fishing is absolutely world-class.

2. Great Slave Lake, Northwest Territories

Great Slave Lake is the deepest lake in North America and another world-class lake trout destination. The lake's east arm, known for its incredible clarity and deep water, produces large lake trout consistently. The area near Yellowknife and the communities along the north shore offer good access.

3. Lake Athabasca, Saskatchewan/Alberta

Lake Athabasca straddles the Saskatchewan-Alberta border and offers excellent lake trout fishing. The lake's cold, deep waters support a healthy population of lake trout, with fish in the 10-20 pound range common and trophies over 30 pounds possible.

4. Nipigon Lake, Ontario

Lake Nipigon, north of Lake Superior, is the largest lake entirely within Ontario and offers excellent lake trout fishing. The lake holds the Ontario record for lake trout at over 65 pounds. The lake's clear water and diverse structure produce quality fish.

5. Lac Mistassini, Quebec

Lac Mistassini is the largest natural lake in Quebec and offers excellent lake trout fishing in a remote setting. The lake's deep basins and cold water produce quality fish. The area around the Baie du Poste is a popular starting point for fishing trips.

Lake Trout Fishing Techniques

Trolling

Trolling is the most common method for covering water and finding active lake trout. Use downriggers to present lures at the right depth — lake trout often suspend at 30-60 feet in summer. Spoons, flashers and flies, and plugs are all effective. Focus on structure like points, reefs, and islands where lake trout feed on ciscoes and whitefish.

Jigging

Jigging is highly effective for lake trout, particularly when they're holding on specific structure. Use heavy jigs (1/2 to 1 oz) tipped with a minnow or plastic trailer. Vertical jigging in 40-100 feet of water can produce explosive strikes. Lake trout often hit on the drop.

Ice Fishing

Winter ice fishing for lake trout is a Canadian tradition. Through-the-ice fishing on lakes like Great Slave and Great Bear can be spectacular. Use heavy jigging spoons tipped with minnows, and be prepared for extreme cold. Tip-ups with live bait are also effective.

Lake Trout Fishing Tips

• Go deep in summer — Lake trout seek cold water in summer, often holding at 60-100 feet. Use downriggers to reach them.
• Fish early and late — Lake trout feed most actively during low-light periods, particularly in the shallows.
• Use quality electronics — A good fish finder is essential for locating suspended lake trout in deep water.
• Practice catch and release — Lake trout grow slowly and are vulnerable to overfishing. Consider releasing larger fish to help sustain the population.
• Log your catches — Use the CatchTales app to track lake trout locations, depths, lures, and conditions across Canada.

Published July 2026 by the CatchTales team.