Fishing in Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg
Explore fishing in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg of Manitoba. Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park
The Interlake region sits between Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba, stretching from just north of Winnipeg up to the narrows of Lake Winnipeg. This is one of Manitoba's most productive fishing regions, with thousands of shallow lakes, the Lake Winnipeg shoreline, and the historic Icelandic River system. The region is easily accessible from Winnipeg and offers everything from family-friendly perch fishing to trophy walleye and pike.
1. Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)
Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park is one of Manitoba's premier fishing destinations. The park encompasses Grindstone Point on Lake Winnipeg's eastern shore, plus numerous inland lakes. Lake Winnipeg offers world-class walleye fishing, with fish in the 2-5 pound range common. The park's inland lakes, including Camp Lake and Birch Lake, hold excellent northern pike and yellow perch populations. The park has a resort, golf course, campground, and marina. The historic Hecla Village adds a unique cultural element to any fishing trip.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
Boat Launch: Gull Harbour Marina -Store, Cabin and Marina Rentals on Hecla Island →
2. Icelandic River (Walleye, Northern Pike, Goldeye)
Icelandic River, ManitobaThe Icelandic River flows into Lake Winnipeg at Riverton and offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and goldeye. The river's current, deep pools, and structure hold fish throughout the summer. Spring and fall are the best times, with walleye concentrated. The river is accessible from several points along Highway 8 and the Riverton area. The Icelandic River is named for the Icelandic settlers who established the community of Riverton in the late 1800s.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Boat Launch: Westshore Marine & Leisure →
3. Arborg & Area Lakes (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)
The Arborg area has numerous small to medium-sized lakes that offer excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. These lakes are less pressured than the Lake Winnipeg shoreline and can provide excellent fishing. Local favorites include Lake Manitoba (Arborg side), and the many smaller lakes in the region. The area is a mix of farmland and boreal forest offering a diverse landscape. The town of Arborg has accommodations and services for visiting anglers.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
Boat Launch: Riverton Marina →
4. Gull Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike)
Gull Lake, located between Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba in the central Interlake, offers excellent walleye and northern pike fishing. The lake is shallow and productive, with healthy fish populations. Gull Lake is a popular destination for ice fishing in winter. The lake has several access points and is.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
5. Lake Manitoba (Narrows)
Lake Manitoba's narrows region offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake is large and can get rough, but the narrows area offers more protected water. Walleye fishing is best in spring and fall. Perch fishing is excellent throughout the summer. The Lundar area has several lodges and outfitters.
6. Lake St. Martin (Walleye, Northern Pike)
Lake St. Martin offers excellent walleye and northern pike fishing. The lake's shallow, productive waters hold good populations of both species. The lake is less developed than Lake Winnipeg, offering a more remote experience. Access is via Highway 6 and several side roads.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Boat Launch: Roviera Campground →
7. Dauphin River (Walleye, Northern Pike)
The Dauphin River connects Lake Manitoba to Lake Winnipeg and offers excellent fishing for walleye and northern pike. The river's current concentrates fish around structure and current breaks. The Dauphin River is a popular destination for boat anglers who can fish both the river and Lake Winnipeg's eastern shore. The area is remote and offers excellent fishing with fewer crowds.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Boat Launch: Einarsson's Guide Service →
8. Fisher River (Walleye, Northern Pike)
The Fisher River flows into Lake Winnipeg. The river offers good fishing for walleye and northern pike, particularly in spring and fall when fish are moving into and out of the lake. The river's lower sections are accessible by boat. The Fisher River Cree Nation manages fishing access in some areas.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
9. Matheson Island (Walleye, Northern Pike)
Matheson Island, located in Lake Winnipeg, offers excellent fishing in a remote island setting. The island is accessible by ferry from Pine Dock. The waters around Matheson Island hold walleye, northern pike, and the occasional lake trout. The area is remote and offers a true wilderness fishing experience.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
10. Beaver Creek (Brook Trout)
Beaver Creek offers a unique trout fishing opportunity in the Interlake region. The spring-fed creek holds brook trout that provide excellent light-tackle fishing. The creek is small and best fished with ultralight spinning gear or a fly rod. Beaver Creek is a hidden gem for trout anglers in the Interlake.
Boat Launch: Blacks Point Beach →
11. Washow Bay (Walleye, Northern Pike)
Lake Winnipeg east sideWashow Bay, on Lake Winnipeg's eastern shore, offers excellent walleye and northern pike fishing. The bay's protected waters provide a safer alternative to the open lake. The walleye fishing is best in spring and fall. Washow Bay is accessible by boat from several points along Highway 8.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Boat Launch: Blacks Point Beach →
12. Beaver Creek Lake (Northern Pike, Perch)
Beaver Creek Lake offers fishing for northern pike and yellow perch. The lake is shallow and productive, with good weed growth that provides ideal pike habitat. The lake is less pressured than the larger Interlake waters. Beaver Creek Lake is a good option for anglers exploring the central Interlake.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
Boat Launch: Blacks Point Beach →
13. Kinwow Bay (Walleye, Northern Pike)
Kinwow Bay, on Lake Winnipeg, offers good walleye and northern pike fishing. The bay's shallower, protected waters provide good fishing opportunities. Kinwow Bay is accessible from Highway 8 and offers a more remote fishing experience than the more popular areas to the south.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
14. Pine Dock & Jackhead Areas (Walleye, Northern Pike)
The Pine Dock and Jackhead areas on Lake Winnipeg's eastern shore offer excellent fishing in a remote setting. These communities provide access to Lake Winnipeg waters that receive less fishing pressure. Walleye in the 2-5 pound range are common. The area is at the northern edge of the Interlake region, bordering the boreal shield. Services are limited, so come prepared.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
15. Manigotagan River (Walleye, Northern Pike)
The Manigotagan River on Lake Winnipeg's eastern shore offers walleye and northern pike fishing in a scenic river setting. The river's current and pools hold fish throughout the summer. The Manigotagan area also offers access to Lake Winnipeg. The river is less known than the Interlake's other waters, offering a quieter experience.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Boat Launch: Beresford Lake Campground →
16. Lake Francis (Walleye, Northern Pike)
Lake Francis on the east side of Lake Manitoba offers fishing for walleye and northern pike. The lake is connected to Lake Manitoba and holds healthy fish populations. Lake Francis has several cottage developments and is a popular summer destination. The lake's waters are shallower and warmer than Lake Manitoba.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Boat Launch: Lil Venice Boat Launch →
17. Oak Hammock Marsh (Northern Pike, Perch)
Oak Hammock Marsh is a restored prairie wetland that offers fishing for northern pike and yellow perch. The marsh is a world-renowned birdwatching destination, hosting thousands of waterfowl. Fishing is permitted in designated areas. The marsh's shallow, weedy waters provide excellent pike habitat. Oak Hammock Marsh is a unique fishing destination within easy reach of Winnipeg, offering a combination of angling and wildlife viewing.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
18. Dog Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye)
Dog Lake, located in the northern Interlake, offers good fishing for northern pike and walleye. The lake is less developed than the region's more popular waters, offering a quieter experience. Dog Lake is accessible by gravel road from Highway 6. The lake's remote character provides good fishing with fewer crowds.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
Boat Launch: Lake Manitoba Narrows Seasonal Campground →
19. Moose Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye)
Moose Lake in the central Interlake offers fishing for northern pike and walleye. The lake's shallow, productive waters hold healthy fish populations. Moose Lake is a good option for anglers exploring the Interlake's many smaller lakes. The lake has several access points and is less pressured than the larger Interlake waters.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
Boat Launch: Black Lake Boat Launch →
20. Kinosota & Amaranth Area (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)
The Kinosota and Amaranth area on the east shore of Lake Manitoba offers fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The area's shallower bays and points provide good fishing opportunities, especially in spring and fall. Kinosota Beach is a popular summer destination. The area offers excellent access to Lake Manitoba's productive waters.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
21. Waterhen Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)
between Lake Manitoba and Lake WinnipegosisWaterhen Lake connects Lake Manitoba to Lake Winnipegosis and offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake's shallow, productive waters hold healthy fish populations. Waterhen Lake is accessible from Highway 6 and has several access points.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
22. Cedar Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike)
Cedar Lake offers walleye and northern pike fishing. The lake's shallow waters and weed beds provide good habitat. Cedar Lake is less pressured than the larger Interlake waters.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
23. Horseshoe Lake (Northern Pike, Perch)
Horseshoe Lake, located in the northern Interlake, offers northern pike and yellow perch fishing. The lake is smaller and less known than the region's larger waters, offering a quieter experience.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
Boat Launch: Big Whiteshell Lake Campground (South Shore) →
24. Fairford River (Walleye, Northern Pike)
The Fairford River connects Lake Manitoba to Lake St. Martin and offers walleye and northern pike fishing. The river's current and structure hold fish throughout the summer. The Fairford River is a key waterway in the Interlake region.
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Boat Launch: Roviera Campground →
25. Waterhen River (Northern Pike, Walleye)
The Waterhen River connects Waterhen Lake to Lake Winnipegosis and offers northern pike and walleye fishing. The river's current and pools provide good habitat for both species.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
Boat Launch: Waterhen Wayside Ferry Park →
26. Prime Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Prime Lake, ManitobaPopular fishing lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
27. Berens River (Northern Pike, Walleye, Goldeye, Brook Trout, Perch)
Berens River, ManitobaPopular river fishing in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
28. Poplar River (Northern Pike, Walleye, Goldeye, Brook Trout, Perch)
Poplar River, ManitobaPopular river fishing in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
29. Aandal Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Aandal Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
30. Abbott Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Abbott Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
31. Abbotts Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Abbotts Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
32. Abel Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Abel Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
33. Abes Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Abes Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
34. Abey Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Abey Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
35. Abgrall Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Abgrall Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
36. Abigail Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Abigail Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
37. Ableson Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Ableson Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
38. Abraham Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Abraham Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
39. Abram Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Abram Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
40. Abrey Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, Narrows)
Abrey Lake, ManitobaNamed lake in the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg region of Manitoba.
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
- Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
- Yellow Perch · Limit: 25
Fishing Tips for the Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg
- Get a licence — All anglers need a valid fishing licence for your province — buy online before heading out.
- Check the weather & water conditions — always check forecasts and wind before heading out, especially on big water.
- Know the regulations — size and catch limits vary by water body in Manitoba; check the local regulations first.
- Best times — early morning and late evening are prime. Many Manitoba's Interlake: Hecla, Arborg & Lake Winnipeg waters fish best in spring and fall.
- Use the right gear — match your rod, line, and tackle to the species you're chasing and the water you're fishing.
More Regions in Manitoba
- Manitoba's Central Plains: Portage la Prairie & Delta Marsh
- Eastern Manitoba: Whiteshell & Nopiming Guide
- Manitoba's Hudson Bay Coast: Churchill River & Arctic Char
- Northern Manitoba: Flin Flon, Thompson & Clearwater Lake
- Western Manitoba: Duck Mountain, Riding Mountain & Parklands
- Winnipeg
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