Northern Boreal
2nd EDITION
FIRST PIKE OF THE DAY
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2016
ALBERTA
aFish stocking on pp. 34
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Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
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NORTHERN BOREAL FISHING 2016 Publisher Sean Simmons Production: Kathy Buhler, Jamie Svendsen, Alison Warner Contributors: Chad Bullock, Kevin Dergez, Ewashko, fredalex, Wally Garrick, Tony Gellings, gogomez, Jason Hooper, Ray Kohlruss, Brad Kowald, Lac La Biche Sporting Goods, shaggy99, thejordanforsythe Advertising sales, printing and distribution managed by Glacier Media Inc. Eastern Slopes Fishing 2016 is part of The Angler’s Atlas and is owned by Goldstream Publishing Inc. Suite 210 500 Victoria St. Prince George, BC, V2L 2J9 (250) 596-6277 mail@anglersatlas.com
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Northern Boreal Key Map N
orthern Boreal takes its name from the forest that dominates the landscape of northern Alberta. It’s a wooded and watery expanse that encompasses all of the upper half of the province. Its four watershed zones, NB1-4, comprise most of the lakes in Alberta.
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There is so much walleye and pike fishing in northern Alberta that anglers will want to take advantage of trout where available. The northern pothole lakes represent one such opportunity.
For families, occasional anglers and those new to the sport, free fishing weekends offer a chance to get their feet wet twice a year. On two weekends, once in July and once in February, anyone can fish in Alberta without a licence. The weekends coin-
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Page 5
Get off the beaten path.
Located just 3 hours west of Calgary, Golden, BC is an anglers dream with spectacular mountain scenery, glacier fed lakes, rivers and streams.
These waterways are home to Rainbow, Bull, Cutthroat and Brook Trout, Dolly Varden, Burbot and Kokanee. Golden is situated on the Columbia River, which includes a vast selection of rivers and streams as its tributaries. These and the numerous lakes that surround Golden, offer fabulous fishing options for spin casting and fly fishing from the shore or boat. Whatever your preferred catch of the day, Golden is the place to enjoy fantastic year-round fishing. The Golden Outdoor Discovery Map shows fishing areas and access roads. View online or order the Outdoor Discovery Map at www.tourismgolden.com/catch
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Winefred Lake W
Angler’s Atlas members have posted several pictures of the monster fish in Winefred Lake. Member gogogomez reports that jigging with a Five of Diamonds landed more pike and Winefred lies in the south- walleye than he knew what to ern Regional Municipality of do with. Wood Buffalo between Cold Check out the Angler’s Atlas Lake and Fort McMurray. The page for Winefred Lake at anlake offers excellent fishing glersatlas.com/lake102100 for lake whitefish, burbot, and for more information, or to post your own photos and fishpickerel. All year long, the fishing is ing tips. inefred Lake’s reputation rests with its consistently trophy-sized northern pike --fish of 20 lbs. or more are not uncommon --and walleye.
fabulous in Winefred Lake. Some of the best fishing, in fact, is during the winter through the ice.
LAKE ACCESS
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inefred is a five-hour drive from Edmonton. Follow Secondary Hwy. 881 north from Lac La Biche for approximately 100 km. At the sign to Winefred Lake Lodge, turn east onto a gravel road and follow it for 70km until it reaches Winefred Lake. A 4WD is recommended.
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 122.8 sq. km Maximum Depth • 17 metres (50 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 594 metres (1,782 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
In the open water season, try trolling back and forth across the small bay in the northeast side.
© The Angler’s Atlas
5006 - 55th Street, Cold Lake, 780.594.3399 9240 - 102nd Avenue, Fairview, 780.835.3900 Bay C - 225 MacKay Crescent, Fort McMurray, 780.790.6039 9511 Franklin Avenue, Fort McMurray, 780.743.0292 1111 Main Street, Grassland, 780.525.2220 11102 - 100th Street, La Crete, 780.928.3460
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
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Amisk Lake A
misk means, “abundance of beaver,” in Cree. Amisk Lake lies at the western edge of the Beaver River drainage basin. Long and narrow, the lake comprises two basins nestled in the woods of picturesque Athabasca county. The larger basin, the south basin, is 60 metres deep while the north basin is 34 metres deep.
Fishing has declined in recent years but the lake is still known for producing plenty of walleye. Both walleye and northern pike must be released.
Members of The Angler’s Atlas have posted several markers for Amisk Lake. Member marcel.s notes that there is good fishing along the western edge of the southern basin. Be careful here; member Xtreme also report warnings just to the north and south of the hotspot. See the markers and warnings, as well as the locations of the two boat launches, at anglersatlas.com/lake/101783.
Much of the shore remains undeveloped, and iFish Alberta user Dominic suggests “trolling along the shore, using a Five of Diamonds.”
© The Angler’s Atlas
Typical of deep parkland and boreal lakes in Alberta, Amisk has algae blooms and high phosphorous levels in mid to late summer. Skeleton Lake drains into Amisk Lake from the west, while Long Lake drains into Amisk Lake from the south. Waterfowl and shorebirds are abundant, especially in the shallow bays. LAKE ACCESS
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misk Lake is located in central Alberta approximately 175 km northeast of Edmonton and 15 km east of the village of Boyle, which lies south of Secondary Road 663. The lake’s main axis runs north-south. A boat launch and day-use area are located on the north side.
© The Angler’s Atlas
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 5.15 sq. km Maximum Depth • 60 metres (180 feet) Mean Depth • 16 metres (48 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
4308 1st Avenue S. Lethbridge, AB
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Baptiste Lake
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aptiste Lake is a very productive, moderatesized lake in the County of Athabasca in central Alberta. The lake is comprised of two basins joined by a long neck called the Narrows.
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LAKE ACCESS
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ocated 165 km northwest of the city of Edmonton and 16 km west of the town of Athabasca. Take Hwy. 2 west from Athabasca and follow an access road around the south Baptiste Lake end of the lake to a boat launch is popular in on the southwest corner. the summer The summer village of White with its fishing, Gull, located at the north end primarily for of the lake, can be reached yellow perch, either from the ring road that northern pike and goes around the south and west walleye, as well as for boat- sides of the lake or from a seping and swimming. arate exit directly off Hwy. 2 at The walleye limit is zero, except the holder of a special Fish Harvest Licence and tags. Those license holders may retain walleye of a size, number and at the times specified on the licence. The pike limit is 1 over 63 cm; Perch limit is 15; Lake Whitefish limit is 10; and Burbot limit is 10.
the north end of the lake. The summer village of Whispering Hills, located on the east side of the Narrows, has a separate exit from Hwy. 2. The road used to reach it does not connect with the ring road.
There are three private campgrounds and five summer villages on the lake. The summer villages of Sunset Beach, South Baptiste Lake is Baptiste and West Baptiste can closed to all fishing be reached from a gravel road Apr. 1 to May 14. that goes around the south end of the lake.
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QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 981 Hectares (2,424 Acres) Maximum Depth • 28 metres (90 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 579 metres (1,900 feet) Survey Date • February 1981 Contour Units • Metres
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta Alberta Authorized ’s Lu Boat Deale nd r
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Beaver Lake
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fish habitat, and many of the Hwy. 36 to the northwest end of best spots can be found near or the lake, where the community of Beaver Lake is located. around the islands.
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Some of this excellent habitat is also some of the more hazardous for boaters. Underwater rocks and thick weeds can easily catch boats
Beaver Lake Provincial Recreation Area area has 140 campsites, pump water, docks and boat launches, and a day-use area with a picnic shelter, tables and firepits. The park does not have a sandy beach or designated swimming area, but that doesn’t discourage swimmers.
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ocated south of Lac La Biche, Beaver Lake is popular for boating and fishing.
Beaver Lake’s main sport fish species are northern pike, yellow perch, and walleye. The lake also supports commercial and domestic fisheries for lake whitefish. The Angler’s Atlas page for Beaver Lake is packed full of great information, especially for hot spots, boat launches, and warning spots.
Beaver Lake’s varied underwater structure provides excellent
and hooks. For details about these spots, see anglersatlas.com/ lake/101806.
Each year during the August long weekend, the nearby town of Lac La Biche holds the Blue Feather Fish Derby on Beaver Lake. As many as © The Angler’s 2,000 anglers compete for major For Atlas prizes. maps or for more inLAKE ACCESS formation about Bearom Edmonton, take Hwy. ver Lake Provincial Park, 28 north and east to Hwy. visit www.albertaparks.ca. 36, then drive north to the town of Lac La Biche.
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QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 33.1 sq. km Maximum Depth • 15 metres (45 feet) Mean Depth • 7.1 metres (21 feet) Drainage Basin Area • 290 sq. km Contour Units • Feet
A secondary road extends from
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
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Calling Lake
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alling Lake is a large, attractive recreational lake noted for its sandy shoreline. The main sport fish are northern pike, yellow perch and walleye.
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“It’s no secret where the fish are biting in this lake; there are usually quite a few boats anchored right off the provincial boat launch,” says Brad Kowald, Angler’s Atlas field staff volunteer.
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Kowald and his friends Dann and Frank headed out and picked up several nice walleye using deep diving crank bait. LAKE “We had a few nice pike ACCESS throughout the day, too, for the most part in the 60-70 cm range, although it seemed they would bite more often when we drifted into shallower water anywhere from 6-10 ft. Check out the Angler’s Atlas page for Calling Lake at anglersatlas.com/lake/101830. Hint: there are several markers for hot spots posted on the map there!
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alling Lake is located bout 200 km north of © The Angler’s Atlas Edmonton. The town of Athabasca, 55 km to the south, is the closest centre. The hamlet of is a 741-hectare area the southCalling Lake is located on the ern shore. The park is open lake’s eastern shore. from May to September and From Edmonton, take Hwy. 2 has 25 campsites, flush toilets, north to Athabasca, then Sec- tap water, a boat launch, swimondary Road 813 north to the ming and a picnic area.
Please be mindful of Alberta provincial regulations for fish hamlet and provincial park. quotas. Calling Lake Provincial Park
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 14,282 Hectares (35,290 Acres) Maximum Depth • 16 metres (52 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 594 metres (1,949 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
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Cold Lake
ExploreSouthWestAlberta.ca
cover the whole lake. Motorboats are useful here to help make the most of your time on the lake. Also, check out the Angler’s Atlas page for Cold Lake to see locations of hot spots to help make it a little easier! See anglersatlas.com/ lake/101848. With such vast terr i t o r y, and so many fish species present in the lake (a dozen is a conservative estimate), it is vital to familiarize yourself with the freshwater fishing regulations for both Saskatchewan and Alberta. Fishing licenses for both provinces are valid in Cold Lake. LAKE ACCESS
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old Lake has the distinction of being one of the best fishing lakes in two provinces. Cold Lake straddles the Alberta / Saskatchewan border, and is part of Saskatchewan’s excellent fishing park, Meadow Lake Provincial Park. Cold Lake is one of the deepest
lakes in both Saskatchewan and Alberta, and offers numerous bays and shoals that are great places to cast a line. Cold Lake is one of the few lakes in Saskatchewan that offer fishing for lake trout. This slow-growing species can be fabulous fishing.
Lakes this size can be both intimidating and appealing. Despite its popularity, it is possible to find quiet fishing spots here. Anglers can fish here frequently and still not
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rive roughly 300 km northeast of Edmonton on Hwy. 28. to reach Cold Lake. The city’s marina is the largest inland marina in western Canada, as explained online by Anglers Atlas user coldlakeinfo. Cold Lake Provincial Park is located on the north shore of the lake. The park has 117 campsites as well as a day use area. Just west of Cold Lake is Marie Lake, which also offers great fishing opporunities for walleye.
A place where the sun nearly always shines and the opportunity for adventure never ends
ExploreSouthWestAlberta.ca R0011240980
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 37,300 Hectares (92,167 Acres) Maximum Depth • 99 metres (325 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 535 metres (1,605 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
© The Angler’s Atlas
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
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Crane (Moore) Lake
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Crane Lake, also known as Moore Lake, is one of several lakes in the Cold Lake area. Sport fish species in the lake are walleye, northern pike, yellow perch and lake whitefish. During the summer, Crane Lake can get busy, making it tricky to catch larger pike and perch. The lake is popular in winter for ice fishing.
Multiple iFish Alberta users recommend casting a line or drilling a hole near Bodina Resort. As user Tkaminski explains, “lots of pike action just off the shore at Bodina Resort. 10 feet of water is where the pike are cruising. Any shallower or deeper and you will get nothing.”
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limits fish spawning and feed- about 19 km to secondary ing habitat in the lake. Hwy. 892. The sport fishery in the lake’s inlet and outlet streams is closed for a period during April and May each year.
Other popular spots in the area include Hilda Lake and Tucker Lake, both of which are also known for their ice-fishing opportunities.
Turn right onto this road and the lake is roughly 10 km from the turnoff.
There are two provincial recreation areas on the south shore of the lake, Moore Lake East and Moore Lake West. Both parks have boat launches and campsites.
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rane Lake is located about 25 km northwest of Cold Lake. From Cold Lake town centre, folThe lake water turns from low Hwy. clear to green in lake summer 55 west and early fall. Aquatic plant life is limited to only a few areas such as the west basin. This lack of vegetation
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 994 Hectares (2,456 Acres) Maximum Depth • 26 metres (85 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 550 metres (1,650 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
© The Angler’s Atlas
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta Alberta Authorized ’s Lu Boat Deale nd r
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Dolberg Lake
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olberg Lake is a popular fishing spot northwest of Barrhead. Each year, the lake is stocked with 18,000 rainbow trout, helping to sustain a thriving fishery.
find the location of the hot spot along the southern shore, as well as photos and other useful map markers. LAKE ACCESS
this route 43 km north to Barrhead, then west along Hwy. 18 to secondary Hwy. 655, roughly 18 km from the town.
Turn right onto Hwy. 655 and follow it about 25 ocated northwest of EdBait is permitted in Dolberg km. Hwy. 655 monton. Take Hwy. 16 Lake and trout will often key in west to Highway 43, and takes a sharp on shrimp or maggots, particu- turn right. Conturn left at larly for ice fishing. about 3 km, tinue along this then follows “Good little lake, good fish- road for 25 km a straight ing” writes Angler’s Atlas user to Hwy. 33, line to the martin78. “[I] will definitely be and turn lake, where right. back.” there is a boat Another Angler’s Atlas user, F o l launch. lancetay, jokes, “there are no l o w fish here, nothing to see, move along,” while holding a fat 6- to 8-lb. rainbow.
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iFish Alberta user Dickweed reports “nice rainbows, power bait marshmallows and pink or green trout power bait, on snell hook and bobber, just keeping it easy for the kids.”
ExploreSouthWestAlberta.ca R0011240977
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 33 Hectares (82 Acres) Maximum Depth • 11 metres (36 feet)
Some of the best fishing here is in the fall. Fly fishing can be particularly productive when the waterboatmen are hatching. The Angler’s Atlas page for Dolberg Lake is at anglersatlas. com/lake/101867. There you’ll
A place where the sun nearly always shines and the opportunity for adventure never ends
Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown © The Angler’s Atlas
Contour Units • Feet
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
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Fawcett Lake
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Surface Area • 33 Hectares (82 Acres) Maximum Depth • 11 metres (36 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
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Fawcett Lake can be an angler’s dream. There are so many opportunities, the question will be how to keep up with them all.
QUICK FACTS
AnglersAtlas.com
Ray Kohlruss from Reel Angling Adventures, says that Fawcett is a big lake, and the best locations will depend on such things as weather and time of day. It also depends on the species you target. When going after perch, Kohlruss suggests a Marmish hook tipped with maggots, meal worms or minnows. Head down between 15 and 30 feet, and try to stay near the steep drop-offs.
The rocks around the islands are also good locations, as the rocks will act as cover. Try the east end of the lake near the boat launch, too, for a good starting point. If walleye are more your thing, Kohlruss emphasises that smaller is better. “With walleye, less is more,” he says. Try small pink ladies, jigs tipped with minnows, or small perch hooks with maggots.
“Pike will go after just about anything,” says Kohlruss, but a starting point is a small jig head and minnow. Head about 100 feet out from the boat
launch, down up to 30 feet deep. The pike in Fawcett Lake are in about the 6 lb range, though some as big as 25 lbs have been known to come out. Burbot are an excellent ice-fishing target. Kohlruss says that in warmer weather they’re more river fish than lake fish. In winter, however, they are feeding heavily in the lakes and are growing more than they do in warmer weather. They spawn in February, he says, and that is the perfect time to head out for a day of ice fishing.
Please make sure you consult the Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations before heading out. Fawcett Lake has several different regulations in place, and there is a closure in effect on the northeast side for part of the spring. A guided trip is also a great idea. Ray Kohlruss of Reel Angling Adventures, guides in many north-central area lakes, including Fawcett. Check out his website at reelangling.com.
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o reach Fawcett Lake, start from the town of Smith, 123 km north of Westlock or 73 km east of Slave Lake. Once in Smith, cross the river and follow the signs east and north for 27 km to Fawcett Lake. Fawcett Lake Provincial Recreation Area is located on the west side of the lake and includes 58 campsites, though they are unserviced. The park also includes a day use area and boat launches.
© The Angler’s Atlas
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
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Island Lake
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sland Lake provides habitat for some of Alberta’s largcan be est bird species, and where fussy. This is a good time there are waterfowl, there are to experiment with your lures fish. or flies. While northern pike are considered the main sport fish One of the islands is home to species in the lake, anglers can a colony of great blue herons. sometimes catch walleye, even On another island, the trees suwhen casting from the dock. port immense eagle nests. Ice fishing for perch during the Island Lake Days are celebratwinter is also popular. ed each July. Densely rooted vegetation in regions around the lake provides healthy spawning and feeding habitat, enabling many fish species to live in the lake.
sible from Hwy. 2, which passes north through Athabasca from Edmonton then along Island Lake enroute to the town of Slave Lake.
There are several public access points on the west shores at the Summer Villages. On the east shore, there are two boat launches, one at the day-use area, the other at the campground.
Island Lake Campground offers a day-use area, boat launch, dock, pier, firewood and a fish-cleaning station. LAKE ACCESS There are 11 unserviced camphe lake is located in the sites with well water. County of Athabasca, There is no public access by about 20 km northwest of the vehicle to the south shore. town of Athabasca.
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Lake whitefish are exceptionally large in Island Lake, but they The lake’s west side is acces-
4308 1st Avenue S. Lethbridge, AB R0011241450
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 790 Hectares (1,952 Acres) Maximum Depth • 21 metres (70 feet) Elevation • 603 metres (1,977 feet) Survey Date • September 1967 Contour Units • Feet
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta Alberta Authorized ’s Lu Boat Deale nd r
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A REAL LIFE DISCOVERY CHANNEL Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map Ă‚Ĺ Province of Alberta
Over 7,600 km of coastline, 6,700 lakes and 100 rivers.
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Find your perfect place to fish – in Saskatchewan. Mix the peace and tranquility of our beautiful lakes with incredible fishing for walleye, lake trout, northern pike and more. Find all of Saskatchewan’s outfitters at FishSask.com. To order your free copy of the 2016 Saskatchewan Fishing and Hunting Guide call Tourism Saskatchewan toll-free at 1-877-237-2273.
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Lac la Biche
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While the perch can be more plentiful at times, pike fishing brings with it the excitement of landing the big one.
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© The Angler’s Atlas
com/lake/101945.
The best time for fishing here is spring and fall, although ice fishing is a big draw as well.
Angler’s Atlas member • LIFETIME WARRANTY ON TIRE ROTATIONS WITH PURCHASE • FACTORY-TRAINED, ASE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS gogogomez reports that he LAKE ACCESS • WE INSTALL EVERYTHING WE SELL “can’t keep the pike off the ocated in the • EXPERT INSTALLATION EVERY TIME hook,” using a Five of Diatown of Lac monds. La Biche, 4WheelParts.com the lake is 800•284•9840 R0011226224 roughly 225 km northeast of Edmonton AnglerAd_7.725x3.indd 1 4/6/16 5:17 PM along Hwys. 28 and 36. • FREE INSPECTION ON: ALIGNMENTS, BRAKES & SUSPENSIONS
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a c La Biche is a picturesque lake most popular for its walleye and northern pike fishing. Perch are also caught in the lake. Because of its popularity and abundance of fish, the angling pressure can be intense.
Ewashko also reports that a small Rattling Rap did the trick for him when he was Lac La Biche is stocked with targetting pike. nearly 25,000 walleye, part of efforts to rehabilitate the lake. Lac La Biche is relaLac La Biche is not part of tively shallow and in many the walleye tag system and the parts can be weedy during the walleye fishery is catch and re- summer months. It’s especially important to note that there are lease only. many places in Lac La Biche where caution is warranted if you’re boating. These maps are for general use, but if you know of the location of specific hazards, post them at anglersatlas.
There are several c o m m e rc i a l
campsites/ accommodations situated along the lake.
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 11.8 sq km
Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park is located on the large peninsula on the southeast side of the lake and includes the surrounding islands. The park has 72 campsites.
Maximum Depth • 25 metres (82 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 544 metres (1,632 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Metres
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
• EXPERT INSTALLATION EVERY TIME • FACTORY-TRAINED, ASE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS • WE INSTALL EVERYTHING WE SELL • FREE INSPECTION ON: ALIGNMENTS, BRAKES & SUSPENSIONS r0011226220
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Page 20
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Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
Lac la Nonne
ExploreSouthWestAlberta.ca A place where the sun nearly always shines and the opportunity for adventure never ends
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alleye, pike, perch, whitefish and burbot are all caught in Lac La Nonne. Lac La Nonne is a tagged lake for walleye, which means that anglers need to win a special tag to allow for walleye fishing. Perch are easy to catch in Lac La Nonne, and can provide a great introduction to angling. Northern pike are also big catches during the summer, as well as during the winter for ice fishing. Angler’s Atlas member ChadBullock reports: “20 big perch on ice! My Dad and I had a killer day on the ice. For 45 minutes I couldn’t drop a hook without smacking a jumbo perch! The smallest one we caught on the
© The Angler’s Atlas
day was 10 LAKE ACCESS inches and the biggest was 15 inches! We let that big ollow Hwy. 16 west to Hwy. girl go! My greatest perch day 43, and turn right. Continue of my young fishing career!” along this road for nearly 25 km See his report, as well as oth- to Hwy. 33 at the town of Gunn. ers, at anglersatlas.com/ Turn right again. lake/101946. Lac La Nonne is located on the This well-developed lake is a west side of the highway, about great place to take the kids be- 25 km from the last turnoff. Accause it offers a variety of recre- cess to the lake is via one of the side roads leading off the highation on and off the water. way. Tributaries are closed to sport fishing for a designated period Angler’s Atlas user shaggy99 during April and May. Most of recommends the “willow bend the lake is free of boating re- private boat launch. It costs $20 strictions, but there are posted to put your boat in [but] it is areas where boats are prohib- the best launch on the lake and ited or where power boats have for those with larger boats, it is worth the $20.” Most of the limited speeds of 12 km/hr. lake’s access points are privately owned.
F
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 1,191 Hectares (2,943 Acres) Maximum Depth • 20 metres (65 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • August 1961 Contour Units • Feet
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
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Long Lake
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L
ong Lake is a pretty lake set in a steep-sided, heavily wooded valley in the County of Thorhild. The lake follows a glacial meltwater channel through a steep-sided, forested valley.
ing great to take kids. As user Pike22 suggests, “fishing from shore would be difficult at best as the weeds are quite established. Fishing from the flotation pier is possible but can’t Anglers at Long Lake find a c c o m m o d a t e the pike and walleye fishing many people.” rewarding even if they are on the small side. Whitefish and yellow perch are also found in Long Lake, but fishing can be slower.
Brad Kowald, an Angler’s Atlas field staff volunteer based out of Edmonton, says jigging is a productive technique in what is generally a catch-and-release fishery. “[Long Lake] mostly has smaller pike and a few walleye. That’s what most people catch a lot. The limit is 63 cm and you’d be lucky to get one that’s 63 cm.”
Long lake has been locally popular for recreational use since the early part of the 20th century. Multiple iFish Alberta users praise the lake as be-
’s Alberta Lund ed iz r o th Au ealer Boat D
newwaymotorsports.com road to Long Lake Provincial Park. The park’s campground gets high marks from local anglers, especially from boaters, who like its lakeshore campsites.
Long Lake Provincial Park was established through the efforts of the local community in 1957. The park includes many amenities, like swimLAKE ACCESS ming areas, boat launches, fish cleaning stations, volleyball ong Lake is nets, horseshoe pits, and playlocated 130 grounds. km northeast of Edmonton and 15 km In addition to the 220 campsouth of the village sites in the provincial park, there are several commercial of Boyle. campgrounds/accommodaTo reach the lake tions located around the lake. from Edmonton, take A golf course and ski hill are Hwy. 28 to Hwy. 63. also nearby. Drive north on Hwy. 63 to Newbrook, then east on Secondary Road 661 for © The Angler’s Atlas 13 km and north on Secondary Road 831 for 7 km.
L
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QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 5.84 sq. km Maximum Depth • 9 metres (27 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 534 metres (1,752 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
Turn east onto the entrance
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta Alberta Authorized ’s Lu Boat Deale nd r
New & PreowNed • Full Service • FiNaNce 4308 1st Avenue S. Lethbridge, AB
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R0011241443
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
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Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com
Lesser Slave Lake West A
lberta’s great sport fish, the walleye, is now in relatively plentiful supply again thanks to a recovery program implemented a few years back. Lesser Slave Lake --the province’s largest accessible water body-- remains Alberta’s walleye capital, offering marinas and resorts to service anglers.
ones. Whitefish, burbot, yellow perch and pike also provide ample opportunity for a catch. Tony Gellings of Adventure Alberta says that maggots and mealworms are good for perch.
For pike, anglers should go big. Wally Garrick of Reel-In Resort/Southshore Fishing Adventures suggests a tip-up rig Walleye are the most popular with a big herring fish in Lesser Slave Lake, though they are certainly not the only
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 1,160 sq. km (118,659 Hectares) Maximum Depth • 21 metres (69 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 578 metres (1,734 feet) Survey Date • August 1970 Contour Units • Feet
or a Norwegian Sardine. Gellings adds, “the pike will bite on anything. If they’re out there, you’ll catch them.”
He also notes that more people are becoming interested in fishing for burbot. The limits are higher -10- and they are tasty, despite their appearance. In winter, the ice fishing is simply spectacular on Lesser Slave Lake and there is no better time to plan a getaway.
Lesser Slave Lake is one of the best walleye fisheries in Alberta and the action is just heating up when the water freezes. Garrick says that ice fishing is a big deal in the area.
Typically, there are tournaments around Free Fishing Weekend in February, and if the ice is ready to go, there are fire-
© The Angler’s Atlas
works and celebrations in Joussard on News Year’s Eve.
Garrick advises that when going after walleye, your priority should be structure. “Typically, fishing near underwater structure is most effective, so right ot the middle or bottom of a dropoff.” That is where the fish will hold for the winter.
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
R0011241463
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
866-887-2628
O
nce you locate the structure, your setup can be as simple as a jig head and minnow. Try jigging a smaller Cleo, Len Thompson, or Swedish Pimple. Use an 8 lb. test line with the spoon or jig tied on directly and your minnow out behind the jig. Head for the deep water, again right down to the bottom.
Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com
Page 23
Lesser Slave Lake East ice huts, from the simple shelter to the elaborate setup with beds and stoves. Outfitters have these huts located all over the ice, available for rent all winter long. The Lesser Slave Lake region caters to all winter enthusiasts. The sparkling snow is ideal for snow-
Keep in mind that
LAKE ACCESS
F
rom Edmonton, drive north on Hwy. 2 for about 56 km. Turn left at Hwy. 18. At Westlock, turn right onto Hwy. 44 (104th street). Continue on Hwy. 44 for about 104 km, and then for approximately 100 km after Hwy. 44 merges again with Hwy 2. Follow the signs for various access points along the lake. Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park is 22km north of the town of Slave Lake and
regulations prohibit the use of live bait. In most cases, walleye are caught during during low light condititions such as dawn, dusk, or cloudy days. Garrick notes, however, that on Lesser Slave Lake many anglers fish productively right through the night. Here a hut is welcome in winter. Businesses around the lake rent
shoeing and crosscountry skiing and there are ample skating opportunities. Bring your gear, or rent from one of the many outfitters in the area.
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Nanton, AB 35 minutes south of Calagary
R0011240959
trails, interpretive programs, and a group camping area. Hilliard’s Bay Provincial Park is also located along the lake, along the northwest shore. From Slave Lake, drive west along Hwy. 2 for 100 km and then turn north onto Hwy. 750 for approximately 30 km until reaching Hilliard’s Bay. The campground has 164 sites, a day use area, and a boat launch. The communities of Widewater, Joussard, Faust, and Kinuso all make good locations for outfitting, hiring a guide, and finding accommodations.
there are winter camping options available. Marten River campground, within the provincial park, has 111 sites as well as a day-use area. The park includes many services like hiking
As Garrick and Gellings note, it is also a good idea to talk to locals before heading out onto the lake, particularly to get information about spots to avoid.
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
4308 1st Avenue S. Lethbridge, AB
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Page 24
Moose Lake
newwaymotorsports.com R0011241757
L
arge and lovely, Moose Lake supports a healthy population of lake trout and walleye, both of which tend to prefer to cooler water temperatures. The Moose Lake Walleye Classic is held each year at the end of June, and the lake is a great spot for family fishing. While not exceptionally deep, the lake has some varied shoreline and steep dropoffs.
iFish Alberta user Toad9414 recommends to “look at the depth chart and troll the channel that runs between the two shallow spots. [We caught] 32 fish in four hours!”
LAKE ACCESS
M
oose Lake lies northwest of Bonnywille. From the town, follow Hwy. 41 north for five kilometres. Then turn left on Secondary Hwy. 660 Moose Lake is also home to bur- and continue for another 10 bot, whitefish, pike, and perch. km. Catch limits and certain regulations are specific to Moose Lake. Please be sure to familiarize yourself with limits and closures before heading out.
© The Angler’s Atlas
At this point, a side road leading to Moose Lake Provincial Park appears on the left side of the road.
Follow this road for about two kilometres until it reaches the park. The campground has 52 sites, a boat launch, and a pier.
’s Alberta Lund ized r o th u A ealer Boat D
newwaymotorsports.com New & PreowNed Full Service • Finance
tf 800.752.8834 4308 1st Avenue S. Lethbridge, AB R0011241754
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 4,080 Hectares (10,081 Acres) Maximum Depth • 20 metres (65 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 534 metres (1,752 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta Alberta Authorized ’s Lu Boat Deale nd r
New & PreowNed • Full Service • FiNaNce 4308 1st Avenue S. Lethbridge, AB
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R0011241753
Muriel Lake
866-887-2628
M
uriel Lake fish populations struggled for years because the lake level was gradually but significantly falling. Then came a double whammy --a winter fish kill in 2010-2011. Despite having lost half of its depth and most of its fish, the lake can still give up the occasional pike.
According to the Muriel Lake Management Society, the level of the lake has dropped four metres from 1975 levels. At its deepest, Muriel is only five metres deep, about half of what it was when the lake supported thriving sport, domestic, and commercial fisheries. All began to decline in the 1970s along with the lake levels.
LAKE ACCESS:
This is also the access to Muriuriel Lake is 13 km el Lake Provincial Recreation south of the town of Area. The recreation area has Bonnyville and 200 km north- 22 unserviced sites. east of Edmonton. From Edmonton, follow Hwys. 28 and 28A north and east to Bonnyville.
M
At the junction of Hwys. 28 and 41, at 55th Street in Bonnyville, turn south onto the Gurneyville Road. This road joins Secondary Road 657 south of the locality of Gurneyville on the western side of the lake.
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Nanton, AB 35 minutes south of Calagary
R0011241459
QUICK FACTS
Authorities tend to blame this situation on dry climate conditions since the 1980s but local residents believe there is more behind the problem, citing industry and development. The fish kill five years ago was linked to the shallowness of the lake and may have extirpated the perch, walleye and whitefish.
Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com
Page 25
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Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
Surface Area • 64.1 sq. km Maximum Depth • 11 metres (33 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 559 metres (1,677 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet © The Angler’s Atlas
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
• EXPERT INSTALLATION EVERY TIME • FACTORY-TRAINED, ASE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS • WE INSTALL EVERYTHING WE SELL • FREE INSPECTION ON: ALIGNMENTS, BRAKES & SUSPENSIONS r0011226220
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Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
866-887-2628
N
orth Buck Lake is a large, shallow lake northeast of Edmonton. Like many shallow lakes, North Buck is best fished early or late in the season.
Page 26
Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com
North Buck Lake your gear.
type of spoon works. Smaller Perch are eager biters as well, perch straight off boat launch. though not as fierce as pike. Fun weekend.” They are fun for kids to catch. LAKE ACCESS This makes perch a bonus orth Buck Lake (not to for families because they are be confused with Buck North Buck Lake is home to small, enabling young anglers Lake) is located northeast of perch and to confidently handle them. Edmonton. Follow Hwy. 28 pike. Most iFish Alberta users disfor 155 km to Mewarth Beach. cuss tips for ice fishing in win- Turn right and head east along ter. The lake is popular for ice secondary Hwy. 663 and confishing. tinue roughly 15 km to the D u r i n g community of Caslan. t h e Then turn right and sum- head north onto a
Pike prefer weedier areas and will ambush their prey. They are also indiscriminate feeders and tend to follow a wide variety of lures. Their teeth are razor shape and they are strong fighters. Bear this in mind when selecting
N
m e r , though, one iFish Alberta user, propper71 writes, “small jack everywhere. Any
side road leading to North Buck Lake Recreation Area. A public boat launch and overnight camping are available. The park has 125 sites.
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Nanton, AB 35 minutes south of Calagary
R0011241459
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 19 sq. km Maximum Depth • 6.1 metres (20 feet) Drainage Basin • 100 sq. km Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
© The Angler’s Atlas
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
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R0011226226
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
Page 28
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Pinehurst Lake
4WheelParts.com 800•284•9840
P
inehurst is known for produc- dangerous water at the souteast LAKE ACCESS 4/6/16 5:08 PM ing some hefty northern pike, end of the lake. Pay attention to inehurst Lake is located 245 along with walleye, yellow perch, the winds.” km northeast of the city of lake whitefish and burbot. These tips and more can be found Edmonton. The town of Lac La Angler’s Atlas members obtech, on the Angler’s Atlas website at Biche, which is the nearest large andersdd and jleskow all report anglersatlas.com/lake/102022. population centre, is 60 km to the great fishing at Pinehurst Lake, A portion of the lake around northwest. and their walleye photos show Snug Cove was closed to fish- To reach the lake from Edmongood catches. ing in 2014. Check the 2016 ton, take Hwy. 28 north and east
P
AnglerAd_1.725x1.indd 1
As well, rbrady and bo_sullivan report some great fishing among the bays on the eastern side.
“Pinehurst Lake is a large lake,” writes fredalex. “It is oriented in a line from northwest to southeast. The prevailing winds are from the northwest. Strong winds can and do create
provincial f o r
regulations to the village of Vilna, then Hwy. updates. 36 north to the Hwy. 55 intersection.
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Follow Hwy. 55 for 5 km, then AnglerAd_7.725x3.indd turn north onto a gravelled road, Range Road 132B that runs north for 2.5 km and then intersects with Township Road 652. Turn east and drive for around 25km. Turn north on Range Road 113. Follow this road for 5 km until it reaches the lake.
Pinehurst Lake campground, part of Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area, has 63 unservices sites, a b o a t launch, a day u s e area, and a fish cleaning station.
1
4/6/16 5:17 PM
QUICK FACTS Maximum Depth • 21 metres (63 feet) Mean Depth • 12 metres (36 feet) Drainage Basin • 285 sq. km Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
© The Angler’s Atlas
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
• EXPERT INSTALLATION EVERY TIME • FACTORY-TRAINED, ASE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS • WE INSTALL EVERYTHING WE SELL • FREE INSPECTION ON: ALIGNMENTS, BRAKES & SUSPENSIONS r0011226220
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Page 29
Siebert Lake
AnglersAtlas.com/OKTire
S
iebert Lake, a wilderness lake in the Lakeland Region, attracts anglers for the promise of large northern pike. Walleye fishing can be rewarding too, if the big ones do not bite.
Officially designated a trophy lake in 1970, Seibert has the distinction of requiring a special licence. Anglers require a trophy waters fishing licence in addition to their provincial licence, unless they are under 16 years of age, or over 65. Check the regulations for 2016 updates. Fishing for bait and use of bait fish are not permitted. Inlet and outlet streams are closed to fishing during a designated period in April and May.
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© The Angler’s Atlas
From Edmonton, take Hwy. 28 and 28A northeast to Secondary Road 881. Drive north to Hwy. 55, then turn east and drive for about 6 km until an improved road that runs north. This leads to Siebert Lake Forest Recreation Area on the southeast shore.
iFish Alberta user Wall recommends to try a few casts in “8-12 feet of water with jigs. Ice anglers take note: the road [The] big walleye [keep bitis not plowed regularly in wining].” ter. LAKE ACCESS Siebert Lake Forest Recreation iebert Lake is located 265 Area is open from May to Sepkm northeast of Edmonton tember and offers 43 campand 100 km east of the town of sites, pump water, a beach, a boat launch, and a day use area Lac La Biche. with picnic tables and a picnic
S
OK Tire’s Backroad Fishing Adventures
QUICK FACTS shelter. The campground is unserviced.
For more information, visit www.albertaparks.ca.
Surface Area • 38 sq. km Maximum Depth • 11 metres (33 feet) Mean Depth • 6.9 metres (21 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
4308 1st Avenue S. Lethbridge, AB
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Page 30
Skeleton Lake
newwaymotorsports.com R0011241550
S
keleton Lake is a local and regional focal point for water-based recreation, and offers great fishing in all seasons. The lake is popular for pike, perch and walleye.
Angler’s Atlas member thejordanforsythe reports that the walleye fishing is good in Skeleton Lake, and has posted a photo of a fish caught while fishing from a kayak. Other members have posted some great map markers. In particular, the bay at the north end of the lake can be very productive. See these posts and more at anglers-
atlas.com/lake/102046.
Please note that walleye must be released. The lake also has burbot and lake whitefish. The fishery is closed f r o m April 1 to May 14th. From M a y 15 to
Mar. 31, Walleye limit is 0; Pike limit is 1 (no size limit); Perch limit is 15; Lake Whitefish limit is 10; and the Burbot limit is 10.
lake’s Cree name is a translation of a Cree phrase which means “place of the skeletons.” A Cree chief is said to be buried along the shores of the lake.
’s Alberta Lund ed iz r o th Au ealer Boat D
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The
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LAKE ACCESS
Skeleton Lake is located in the County of Athabasca, 160 km northeast of Edmonton and 6.5 km northeast of the village of Boyle. From Edmonton, take Hwy. 28 northeast to Hwy. 63. Go north on Hwy. 63 to its junction with Secondary Road 663, turn east and drive until you are about 5 km past Boyle.
Local routes from Secondary Road 663 lead north to the summer villages of Mewatha Beach and Bondiss.
© The Angler’s Atlas
Boat speeds are restricted to 12 km/h in posted areas.
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 789 Hectares (1,950 Acres) Maximum Depth • 17 metres (56 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 623 metres (1,869 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta Alberta Authorized ’s Lu Boat Deale nd r
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R0011241486
R0011226226
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
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Page 31
Touchwood Lake
4WheelParts.com 800•284•9840
A
good departure point for season. [The] trick is water 4/6/16 5:08 PM many lakes in Lakeland temperature. When it’s cold, Provincial Recreation Area, find the warm water, about 50 Touchwood Lake is set in the to 60F, and you will get them.” rolling, densely forested hills Likewise, Angler’s Atlas of northeast Alberta. user LacLaBicheSporting-
AnglerAd_1.725x1.indd 1
Walleye and northern pike are the main species caught in a popular sport fishery, which has recovered since catch-andrelease rules were introduced 20 years ago. iFish Alberta user Rmillsfishing writes, “[I] love this lake, I’ve had really good luck early in the season and late in the
Goods posted a warning on the website for winter anglers: “Be careful when travelling through the narrows because the ice can be much thinner than elsewhere. Water tends to move faster through this stretch of the lake, weakening the ice.” See their report and more at anglersatlas.com/ lake/102071.
• FREE INSPECTION ON: ALIGNMENTS, BRAKES & SUSPENSIONS • LIFETIME WARRANTY ON TIRE ROTATIONS WITH PURCHASE • FACTORY-TRAINED, ASE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS
QUICK FACTS Surface Area • 29 sq. km Maximum Depth • 40 metres (120 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 623 metres (1,893 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet
• WE INSTALL EVERYTHING WE SELL • EXPERT INSTALLATION EVERY TIME
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LAKE ACCESS
A
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4/6/16 5:17 PM
s with the other lakes in Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area, Touchwood Lake is located 265 km northeast of Edmonton and 46 km northeast of Lac La Biche on Hwy. 663.
Touchwood Lake campground is open from May to September and offers 98 unserviced campsites, tap water, a beach, a day use area, and a boat launch. For more information on Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area, visit www.albertaparks.ca.
© The Angler’s Atlas
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
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R0011241037
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
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Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map Ă‚Ĺ Province of Alberta
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Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
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T
he Athabasca River, which originates from the Columbia icefield in Jasper National Park, is fished for walleye, Rocky Mountain whitefish and northern pike as well as bull, brown and rainbow trout.
Draining northward, the historic Athabasca journeys 1,231 km before it meets the Peace River. The river’s upper reaches, silty and swift, are not ideal fish habitat, but fly anglers do fish this stretch for Dolly Varden, Rocky Mountain whitefish and rainbows. Early spring and summer, when the river flows clearest, are best. You can also catch Arctic grayling, goldeye and burbot in the Athabasca River.
Ray Kohlruss, from Reel Angling Adventures, says that when you’re going after grayling, “they usually will attack insects on the surface, and they like sitting along the fast and slow current areas. Most of the grayling I catch are on the tributaries of the Athabasca. Small dry flies, such as nymphs or hoppers work good for them. Most of the grayling fishing is also closer to the mountains, they prefer to stay away from walleye. I would use a 4 wt. fly rod, also you can use a spinning rod with small spinners.” A small population of rainbow trout are found in the Athabasca.
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Athabasca River Outdoor Canada, in their article about fishing the Athabasca River with Kohlruss, has some suggesWhen lake fishing slows down at tions for how to find the best spots the height of summer, some an- in a river. The inflows of creeks glers switch to fishing for northern are good, they say, because the inflowing water will scour out deeppike in the river. er holes, making for prime walleye The Athabasca River is open to habitat. angling for only certain periods of time (check the regulations for dif- As well, darker colours can indiferent sections). A mercury advi- cate deeper holes, as can slower sory is in place for walleye caught water, since flowing water will downstream from Fort McMurray. slow down as it goes over deeper spots. The fish prefer the deeper Check the regulations for details. spots in a river for the simple reaKohlruss says that spring and late son that it’s easier for them, with summer are the best times for fish- less current to work against. ing in the Athabasca River. Kohlruss operates his guiding service, Kohlruss echoes this wisdom. “With bends in the river it will slow fishing the river regularly. down the current, which makes it The Athabasca River is great for easier to fish, and more fish hold in fishing both by boat or from the the slower currents. For slow seams shore, and there are numerous it is where the fast and slow current places to do so. If you’re going to meets. I like fishing on the slower venture out into the river by boat, current, this is where most fish will Kohlruss says he recommends us- hang out and it is easier to for them ing a jet boat. to ambush their prey as fish swim For anglers wanting to get a feel into these areas. for the river, Kohlruss advises that Poacher’s Landing is a popular in general, there are some places put-in spot, and from there, there to consider starting. He suggests is easy access to some of these fishing the slow seams of the river tributaries. Others, such as the from the main current. LaBiche River and the Calling It’s a good idea to look out for River, are a little harder to access. sharp curves in the river, he says. The Calling River, for example, is Try fishing near, “tributary rivers challenging to access the best fishor creeks, back sloughs of the river ing spots. and islands,” he notes. They can grow as large as 5 lbs. and are known to rise to dry flies in midsummer.
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Parts of the Athabasca River and its tributaries can see a lot of angling pressure. However, Kohlruss says that there are also times when you might be the only one fishing on any given day. With a river this size, there are dozens of potential launch points. Kohlruss suggests the launches at Hinton, Blue Ridge, Fort Assiniboine, Klondike Ferry, Smith, Athabasca, Poacher’s Landing, and Fort MacMurray.
Ray Kohlruss has been fishing the Athabasca river and area lakes since childhood, and guiding since 2003 on such waters as the Athabasca River, Calling Lake, Fawcett Lake, and many other lakes in the region. He is proud to be a Pro Staff of Abu Garcia, Berkley, Fenwick Rods, and Pflueger. He’s been on fishing shows such as The Fishn Canada Show, Trigger Effect, and Dimestore.
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map © Province of Alberta
Northern Boreal Fishing 2016
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2015 N orthern B oreal F ish S tocking Waterbody Name
District
Species Released Size Waterbody Name
District
Species Released Size
20 McLENNAN RESERVOIR VALLEYVIEW MEDLEY RIVER COLD LAKE 25.4 MILE 7 LAKE LAC LA BICHE
RB
500
22.4
RB
1500
19.7
RB
12000
14.2
MONTAGANEUSSE LAKE FAIRVIEW
RB
10028
17
MOONSHINE LAKE
SPIRIT RIVER
RB
9300
14.2
6500
12.2 MOONSHINE LAKE NARDAM LAKE
SPIRIT RIVER
RB
500
22.7
SPIRIT RIVER
RB
500
22.4
RB
14000
FAIRVIEW
RB
3000
22.4
CECIL THOMPSON PONDPEACE RIVER
RB
1000
14.5 OLES LAKE 22.4 PEACE POND #1
PEACE RIVER
RB
1000
22.4
CHRYSTINA LAKE
SLAVE LAKE
EB
2100
PEACE RIVER
RB
1000
22.4
CUMMINGS LAKE
FAIRVIEW
RB
1000
21.4 PEACE POND #2 22.4 PEANUT LAKE
BARRHEAD
RB
15000
14.8
15.8 RAINBOW LAKE POND 14.7 RUNNING LAKE
HIGH LEVEL
RB
500
22.4
FAIRVIEW
EB
3000
19.9
15 SCHUMAN LAKE 19.1 SHEMELUK LAKE
SWAN HILLS
RB
10000
13.6
SMOKY LAKE
RB
6000
16.1
33.9 ST. PAUL FISH POND ST. PAUL FISH POND 20.7 ST. PAUL FISH POND
ST. PAUL
RB
1800
21.4
ST. PAUL
RB
600
25.4
ST. PAUL
RB
60
55
FORT McMURRAY
RB
2700
14.8
FORT McMURRAY
RB
1500
14.8
PEACE RIVER
RB
1000
22.4
WHITECOURT
RB
2100
19.3
HIGH LEVEL
RB
500
15.5
ARDMORE COMMUNITY COLD LAKE POND
RB
400
ARDMORE COMMUNITY COLD LAKE POND
RB
ATLANTIC RICHFIELD RESERVOIR
HIGH PRAIRIE
RB
1800
15.9
ATLANTIC RICHFIELD RESERVOIR
HIGH PRAIRIE
RB
BELLIS BEACH LAKE
SMOKY LAKE
200
DOLBERG LAKE
BARRHEAD
RB
5783
DOLBERG LAKE
BARRHEAD
RB
5783
DOLBERG LAKE
BARRHEAD
RB
5783
EAST TWIN LAKE
MANNING
RB
4200
EAST TWIN LAKE
MANNING
Tiger Trout
1000
EDITH LAKE
HIGH PRAIRIE
EB
2100
ENGSTROM LAKE
FORT McMURRAY
RB
25000
ENGSTROM LAKE
FORT McMURRAY
RB
6993
ENGSTROM LAKE
FORT McMURRAY
RB
18051
FAIRVIEW COLLEGE POND
FAIRVIEW
RB
500
FIGURE EIGHT LAKE
PEACE RIVER
RB
9000
HIGH LEVEL POND
HIGH LEVEL
RB
500
14 WEBERVILLE POND 22.4 WHITERIDGE RECREATION POND 15.7 ZAMA COMMUNITY 22.4 POND
HWY 63 POND
FORT McMURRAY
RB
1000
14.8
Lac DELORME
ST. PAUL
RB
4000
20.7
LAC LA BICHE TROUT POND
LAC LA BICHE
RB
600
21.6
LAC LA BICHE TROUT POND
LAC LA BICHE
RB
600
26 15.5
14.7 TEXACO EAST POND 25.1 TEXACO POND
LACRETE POND
FORT VERMILION
RB
1500
LARA FISH POND
BONNYVILLE
RB
400
20
LARA FISH POND
BONNYVILLE
RB
200
25.4
LITTLE BEAR LAKE (HASSE)
COLD LAKE
RB
2400
16
LITTLE BEAR LAKE (HASSE)
COLD LAKE
RB
8518
16
LITTLE BEAR LAKE (HASSE)
COLD LAKE
RB
10258
14.1
LITTLE BEAR LAKE (HASSE)
COLD LAKE
RB
2791
16
LOWER CHAIN LAKES
ATHABASCA
RB
56000
11.7
LOWER CHAIN LAKES
ATHABASCA
Tiger Trout
5000
25.4
LOWER CHAIN LAKES
ATHABASCA
Tiger Trout
6468
32
MACHESIS LAKE
HIGH LEVEL
RB
4000
20.5
Stock Species Codes: BT
Brown Trout
EB
Eastern Brook Trout (Char)
RB
Rainbow Trout
For more information on Fish Stocking in Alberta, visit: www.mywildalberta.com