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Fishing in Western Manitoba: Duck Mountain, Riding Mountain & Parklands

Explore fishing in the Western Manitoba: Duck Mountain, Riding Mountain & Parklands of Manitoba. Duck Mountain Provincia

Western Manitoba is often overlooked by anglers who head east to the Whiteshell or north to Lake Winnipeg. But the Parklands region — Duck Mountain, Riding Mountain, and the Souris River — offers exceptional fishing with far fewer crowds. The region's clear lakes, cold trout streams, and prairie rivers provide diverse fishing opportunities for trout, walleye, pike, and smallmouth bass.

1. Duck Mountain Provincial Park (Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Brown Trout)

Duck Mountain Provincial Park is the premier trout fishing destination in Manitoba. The park's clear, cold lakes are stocked with rainbow trout, brook trout, and brown trout. East Blue Lake, West Blue Lake, and Wellman Lake are the most popular destinations, with rainbow trout averaging 1-3 pounds and larger fish available. The park's streams also hold brook trout. Duck Mountain has excellent campgrounds, hiking trails, and a resort at Wellman Lake. The park is at a higher elevation than surrounding areas, offering cooler temperatures and stunning fall colours. Fly fishing and light spinning tackle are the most productive approaches.

Boat Launch: Gull Lake →

2. Riding Mountain National Park (Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Northern Pike)

Riding Mountain National Park offers excellent fishing in a stunning natural setting. Clear Lake, the park's most popular lake, holds rainbow trout, brook trout, and northern pike. The lake is deep, clear, and supports a healthy fish population. The park's backcountry lakes and streams offer more remote fishing opportunities. A national park permit is required in addition to a Manitoba fishing licence. The town of Wasagaming offers accommodations, restaurants, and outfitters. The park is also known for its bison herd and excellent hiking trails.

Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm

Boat Launch: Riding Mountain National Park Administration Office →

3. Souris River (Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Northern Pike)

The Souris River flows through southwestern Manitoba and offers excellent fishing for smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike. The river's current, deep pools, and rocky structure provide diverse habitat. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good, with fish in the 1-3 pound range common. The river is accessible from several points and through the Souris River Bend Wildlife Management Area. The river is also popular for canoeing and kayaking.

Smallmouth Bass · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 45 cm
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: East Launch →

4. Lake Metigoshe & Turtle Mountain (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)

Lake Metigoshe, in Turtle Mountain Provincial Park, offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake straddles the Canada-US border, with the southern portion in North Dakota. The Canadian side offers good access and several campgrounds. The lake's shallow, productive waters hold healthy fish populations. Turtle Mountain Provincial Park has excellent hiking and biking trails in addition to fishing.

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: William Lake Provincial Park →

5. Assiniboine River (Westman)

Through Brandon area

The Assiniboine River flows through Brandon and offers good fishing for walleye, channel catfish, and goldeye. The river through Brandon has several access points in parks and along the river trail. Walleye fishing is best in spring and fall. Channel catfish provide excellent sport in the summer months. The river is also popular for paddling.

Boat Launch: Crescent Lake Kayak Dock →

6. Oak Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)

Oak Lake offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake is one of the larger lakes in southwestern Manitoba and holds healthy fish populations. Oak Lake has a popular beach and campground, making it a great family destination. The lake's stained water provides good fishing during daylight hours.

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: Oak Island Resort Campground →

7. Rock Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)

Rock Lake offers good fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake is part of the Pembina River system and has good access and amenities. Rock Lake is a popular summer destination with a beach, campground, and nearby golf course.

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: Falcon Lake Marina →

8. Pembina River (Brook Trout, Brown Trout)

The Pembina River, flowing through the Pembina Valley, offers trout fishing in a scenic valley setting. The river's cold, spring-fed waters hold brook trout and brown trout. The Pembina Valley is a beautiful region with deep river valleys and unique ecosystems. The river is accessible from several points along Highway 3. The Pembina Valley Provincial Park offers camping and hiking.

Boat Launch: Mount Carmel Dam Boating Access →

9. Whitewater Lake (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch)

Whitewater Lake offers good fishing for northern pike, walleye, and yellow perch. The lake's shallow, productive waters hold healthy fish populations. Whitewater Lake is also an important bird area, making it a great destination for anglers who also enjoy birdwatching.

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

Boat Launch: Max Lake →

10. Shell River & Area (Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout)

The Shell River and its tributaries offer excellent trout fishing. The cold, spring-fed streams hold brook trout and rainbow trout. The area is less developed than Duck Mountain, offering a more remote experience. The Shell River is a good option for anglers looking to explore new water.

Boat Launch: Buckets / sunset valley campground →

11. Pelican Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)

Pelican Lake, Manitoba

Pelican Lake is a large, shallow prairie lake that offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake's stained water and abundant weed beds provide ideal habitat. Walleye in the 2-4 pound range are common. Pelican Lake has several campgrounds and cottage developments, making it a popular summer destination. The lake also has a strong perch population that provides excellent family fishing.

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: Pelican Yacht Club →

12. Killarney Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike)

Killarney Lake, located within the town of Killarney, offers convenient fishing for walleye and northern pike. The lake is smaller than nearby Pelican Lake but holds healthy fish populations. The town of Killarney offers excellent amenities and the lake is easily accessible from several points. Killarney Lake is a good option for anglers looking for a quick fishing trip combined with small-town charm.

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: Pelican Lake Stays →

13. Lake Winnipegosis (Walleye, Northern Pike, Lake Trout, Perch)

Lake Winnipegosis is the third-largest lake in Manitoba, yet it receives far less fishing pressure than Lake Winnipeg or Lake Manitoba. The lake's shallow, productive waters hold excellent populations of walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. Lake trout are present in the deeper northern basins. The lake's remote character — much of the shoreline is undeveloped — means quality fishing for those who make the trip. Access points include the communities of Winnipegosis, Camperville, and Dawson Bay. The lake's size demands respect for weather conditions.

Walleye (Pickerel) & Sauger (either or combined) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 55 cm
Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Lake Trout · Limit: 1 · None may exceed 65 cm
Yellow Perch · Limit: 25

Boat Launch: Lake Winnipegosis →

14. Swan Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)

Swan Lake, Manitoba

Swan Lake offers good fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake is part of a chain of lakes in the Swan River Valley, an agricultural region nestled between Duck Mountain and the Porcupine Hills. Swan Lake has a popular beach and campground. The nearby Swan River also offers fishing for walleye and goldeye.

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: Swan Lake →

15. Childs Lake (Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout)

Duck Mountain area

Childs Lake, located in the western portion of Duck Mountain Provincial Park, offers excellent trout fishing in a quieter setting than the park's more popular lakes. The lake holds rainbow trout and brook trout, with fish averaging 1-3 pounds. Childs Lake has a campground and boat launch. The lake is a good option for anglers looking to escape the crowds at East Blue and Wellman lakes.

Boat Launch: Laurie Lake →

16. Singush Lake (Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout)

Duck Mountain area

Singush Lake is another Duck Mountain trout lake that offers quality fishing in a beautiful setting. The lake is smaller and less developed than the park's main lakes, offering a more remote experience. The trout population is healthy, with rainbows and brookies averaging 1-2 pounds. Singush Lake is best fished from a small boat or canoe.

⚠ This water: walleye limit is 2 and all walleye over

Boat Launch: Duck Mountain Provincial Park →

17. Lake Dauphin (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)

Lake Dauphin offers good fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake is shallower and more productive than the nearby Riding Mountain lakes. Lake Dauphin has several access points and is a popular destination for local anglers. The town of Dauphin offers full amenities and is the gateway to Riding Mountain National Park and Duck Mountain.

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: Stoney Point Beach Boat Launch →

18. Gilbert Plains & Valley River Areas (Brook Trout)

The streams and rivers flowing off the Duck Mountain escarpment, including the Valley River and its tributaries, offer brook trout fishing in scenic valley settings. These small, cold streams are best fished with light tackle or fly gear. The area combines agricultural valley views with forested slopes, offering a unique fishing experience.

Boat Launch: Gilbert Plains & Valley River Areas →

19. Nesbitt Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike)

Nesbitt Lake, Manitoba

Nesbitt Lake offers fishing for walleye and northern pike in a quiet prairie lake setting. The lake is smaller than nearby Oak Lake but offers less fishing pressure. Nesbitt Lake is a good option for anglers looking for a quieter alternative to the more popular lakes in the 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: Nesbitt Lake →

20. Maple Lake (Northern Pike, Perch)

Maple Lake, Manitoba

Maple Lake, located in the Spruce Woods area, offers fishing for northern pike and yellow perch. The lake is part of the Spruce Woods Provincial Park region, which offers unique sand dune landscapes and hiking trails in addition to fishing. Maple Lake is smaller and less pressured than the region's larger lakes.

Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Yellow Perch · Limit: 25

Boat Launch: Oak Lake Marina →

21. Glenora Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike)

Glenora Lake, Manitoba

Glenora Lake offers walleye and northern pike fishing in a quiet prairie setting. The lake is smaller and less known than nearby Rock Lake and Pelican Lake, offering a more peaceful fishing experience. Glenora Lake is a good option for anglers exploring the Pembina Valley 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: Public boat launch →

22. Lauder Sandhills Lakes (Northern Pike)

Lauder Sandhills Lakes, Manitoba

The Lauder Sandhills area contains several small lakes and ponds that offer northern pike fishing in a unique landscape. The sandhills are a Manitoba landmark and offer hiking and wildlife viewing in addition to fishing. These small lakes are best explored with a canoe or kayak.

Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm

Boat Launch: Oak Island Resort Campground →

23. Lightning Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike)

Lightning Lake, Manitoba

Lightning Lake, located in the Virden area, offers walleye and northern pike fishing. The lake is smaller than Oak Lake and Nesbitt Lake but holds healthy fish populations. Lightning Lake is a good option for anglers based in the Virden area looking for a quick after-work 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

Boat Launch: Lightning Lake →

24. Alexander & Beresford Lakes (Walleye, Northern Pike)

Alexander & Beresford Lakes, Manitoba

Alexander Lake and Beresford Lake offer walleye and northern pike fishing in the Parklands region. These lakes are less known than the Duck Mountain lakes but provide good fishing with fewer crowds. The area combines farmland with forested lake country.

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: East Launch →

25. Goodlands & Lyleton Area Lakes (Northern Pike)

The area around Goodlands and Lyleton in southwestern Manitoba contains several small prairie pothole lakes that hold northern pike. These small lakes are best fished from small boats or canoes. The area is primarily agricultural but offers good fishing for anglers exploring the southwest corner of the province.

Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm

Boat Launch: Strawberry Lake (Bottineau County) Boating Access →

26. Minnedosa Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)

Minnedosa Lake offers fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake is a man-made reservoir on the Little Saskatchewan River. Minnedosa Lake has a popular beach, campground, and the Minnedosa Lake Golf Course nearby. The town of Minnedosa hosts the annual Minnedosa Trout Festival, celebrating the region's fishing heritage.

⚠ This water: see Wahtopanah Lake.
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: Minnedosa Beach Pavillion →

27. Rivers & Wheatland Area Lakes (Northern Pike)

The area around the town of Rivers and Wheatland contains several small prairie lakes that hold northern pike. These lakes are shallow, productive, and provide good fishing for anglers in the region. The area is primarily agricultural but the lakes offer welcome fishing opportunities.

Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm

Boat Launch: Rivers Provincial Park →

28. Souris River Bend Lakes (Northern Pike, Perch)

The Souris River Bend Wildlife Management Area contains several oxbow lakes and backwaters that offer northern pike and yellow perch fishing. These small water bodies are excellent for canoe and kayak fishing. The area is also a prime birdwatching destination, with numerous waterfowl and shorebird species.

Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Yellow Perch · Limit: 25

Boat Launch: Pelican Yacht Club →

29. Criddle & Vane Lakes (Northern Pike)

Criddle Lake and Vane Lake, located in the Virden area, offer northern pike fishing in small prairie lake settings. These lakes are less pressured than the larger lakes in the region and can provide good fishing for anglers willing to explore.

Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm

Boat Launch: Leon's Marine & RV →

30. Clear Lake (Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Northern Pike)

Riding Mountain National Park

Clear Lake, located in Riding Mountain National Park, offers fishing for rainbow trout, brook trout, and northern pike. The lake is deep, clear, and supports a healthy fish population. A national park permit is required in addition to a Manitoba fishing licence.

Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm

Boat Launch: East Launch →

31. Sandy Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike)

Sandy Lake offers walleye and northern pike fishing. The lake's shallow waters and weed beds provide good habitat for both species.

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: East Launch →

32. Waterhen Lake (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)

Waterhen Lake, located on the western side of the Lake Winnipegosis area, offers walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch fishing. The lake is shallower and more productive than Lake Winnipegosis.

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: Waterhen Lake →

33. Foxwarren Lake (Northern Pike, Perch)

Foxwarren Lake, Manitoba

Foxwarren Lake offers northern pike and yellow perch fishing in a quiet prairie lake setting. The lake is smaller and less pressured than the region's more popular waters.

Northern Pike (Jackfish) · Limit: 4 · None may exceed 75 cm
Yellow Perch · Limit: 25

Boat Launch: pritchard docs abandoned →

34. Deloraine Reservoir (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch)

Deloraine Reservoir, Manitoba

Deloraine Reservoir in southwestern Manitoba offers fishing for northern pike, walleye, and yellow perch. The reservoir is a man-made impoundment that holds healthy fish populations. The Deloraine area is in the Turtle Mountain region and offers a scenic prairie setting.

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

Boat Launch: Larson Marine Inc →

35. Swan River (Walleye, Northern Pike, Goldeye)

Swan River, Manitoba

The Swan River flows through the Swan River Valley into the Lake Winnipegosis basin. The river offers walleye, northern pike, and goldeye fishing. The Swan River Valley is a scenic agricultural region nestled between Duck Mountain and the Porcupine Hills.

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: Swan River →

36. Turtle River (Walleye, Northern Pike)

Turtle River, Manitoba

The Turtle River flows through the Swan River Valley and offers walleye and northern pike fishing. The river is smaller than the Swan River and offers a more intimate 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

Boat Launch: Rainbow Beach Provincial Park →

37. Vermilion River (Walleye, Northern Pike)

Vermilion River, Manitoba

The Vermilion River flows through the Dauphin area into Lake Winnipegosis. The river offers walleye and northern pike fishing in a scenic prairie valley setting.

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: Vermilion River →

38. Qu'Appelle River (Walleye, Northern Pike)

southeastern Saskatchewan border

The Qu'Appelle River flows from Saskatchewan into Manitoba. The Manitoba section of the river offers walleye and northern pike fishing. The Qu'Appelle Valley is a scenic region with unique geology.

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: Hoopers Lake Campground →

39. Lake of the Prairies / Shellmouth Reservoir (Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch)

Lake of the Prairies / Shellmouth Reservoir, Manitoba

Lake of the Prairies, also known as Shellmouth Reservoir, is a large man-made reservoir on the Assiniboine River. The reservoir spans the border, with the majority lying in Manitoba. The lake offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. Walleye in the 2-4 pound range are common. The reservoir's flooded timber and structure provide excellent fish habitat. Lake of the Prairies has several access points, campgrounds, and cottage developments. The reservoir is a popular destination for anglers from both Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

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: Lake of the Prairies →