Best Ice Fishing Spots in Manitoba: A Winter Guide to the Season Ahead

Winter is just around the corner, and that can only mean one thing: it’s almost time to get back on the ice. Across Manitoba, anglers are tuning up augers, patching up shelters, and watching the forecast for that first stretch of safe ice. The excitement is building fast.

This year’s season is shaping up to be one of the best yet, with awesome events, new gear, and incredible adventures waiting across the province. From remote northern lakers and pike to community fishing derbies, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate Manitoba’s world-class hardwater fishing.

Kickoff at the 2025 Winnipeg Ice Fishing Show

There’s no better way to launch the hardwater season than at the Winnipeg Ice Fishing Show, happening November 8 and 9, 2025, at the Red River Exhibition Place in Winnipeg. Show hours are Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It’s Manitoba’s largest gathering of ice fishing enthusiasts, featuring new products, local experts, gear demos, and industry leaders from across the province.

The weekend also marks an exciting premiere for ice anglers and fans of outdoor storytelling alike. Jay Siemens’ The Outpost: Season 3 will debut at the Ice Fishing Show on Saturday, November 8 at 7:00 p.m., before officially launching on November 18th on his YouTube channel. The new season follows three teams competing at Viking Lodge for the ultimate multi-species ice fishing showdown. It’s the perfect way to fire up your motivation for another winter of chasing trophy fish.

Explore Manitoba’s Frozen Fishing Frontier

Manitoba is home to some of the best and most diverse ice fishing in North America. From shallow prairie lakes to deep northern waters, there is a place for every style of angler and every level of adventure.

In the next few sections, we are going to highlight some of Manitoba’s best opportunities for ice fishing, from Lake Winnipeg greenbacks to northern pike and lake trout in the north, to crappies in the Whiteshell, and stocked trout lakes across the province. We will also feature some impressive catches from last winter that were entered into the Master Angler program, showcasing the trophy potential waiting beneath the ice this season.

Lake Winnipeg Greenbacks

There is nothing quite like the greenback walleye bite on Lake Winnipeg. Each winter, anglers flock to its frozen expanse in search of these emerald-hued giants. Early ice often provides some of the most consistent action near shoreline breaks, while mid-season can deliver big fish on deeper flats and travel corridors.

Michael Prince with a 30-inch Master Angler Greenback, March 2025

If trophy walleye are on your radar this winter, Lake Winnipeg is the place to be. To learn more about chasing greenbacks on Lake Winnipeg, check out our blog “Greenback Walleye Frenzy, Lake Winnipeg Ice Fishing 101” for tips on locations, techniques, and gear to help you find success on the big lake.

Braden Breland with a 31-inch Master Angler Lake Winnipeg Greenback, February 2025

Trophy Waters of Northern Manitoba

Lake trout are one of the most sought-after winter species in northern Manitoba, and the icy shield lakes of the region offer a true world-class experience. From towering cliffs and deep drop-offs to expansive underwater structures, these waters hold trout that grow big, fight hard, and stay active throughout winter. Midseason is especially productive as trout cruise along edges and transitions in search of cisco and whitefish, giving anglers a thrilling test of skill and equipment. Lakes like Athapapuskow and Clearwater have a well-earned reputation for producing trophy-class fish year after year.

Kaleb Wiszniak with a 40-inch Master Angler Lake Trout on Clearwater Lake, April 2025

Northern Manitoba is also home to incredible northern pike fishing once the lakes freeze. These apex predators spend the winter hunting along shallow bays, weed edges, and ambush points, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Tip-ups, dead bait, and active lure presentations can all trigger explosive bites that keep the action both unpredictable and exciting. Whether you are exploring a remote lake only accessible by snowmobile or fishing established waters near a northern lodge, the potential to land a true gator makes every flag and flash on the flasher a heart-pounding moment.

Daniel Stagg with a 47-inch Master Angler Northern Pike, Winter 2025

Slab City in the Whiteshell

In the southeast, Whiteshell Provincial Park stands out as a top destination for winter crappie fishing. Clear shield lakes, sheltered bays, and suspended schools of hungry slabs create steady action that appeals to every type of angler. Light tackle setups, small baits, and a good sonar can turn a quiet afternoon into a nonstop crappie clinic.

Kiley Fender with a 15.75-inch Master Angler Black Crappie, Brereton Lake

Families and seasoned anglers alike enjoy the peaceful setting and reliable bite that the Whiteshell delivers through the entire ice season. With towering pine forests, granite shorelines, and crisp winter air, it is a place where you can catch fish, make memories, and enjoy the beauty of Manitoba’s hardwater wilderness all in the same day.

Kim Wauer with a 15.5-inch Master Angler Black Crappie, Big Whiteshell Lake

Stocked Lakes, Big Rewards

Stocked trout lakes are one of Manitoba’s best bets for consistent action all winter long. The Parkland Region leads the way with an impressive lineup of rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, and tiger trout lakes that regularly produce Master Angler-sized fish. Many of these waters freeze early, making them a perfect option for the first safe-ice missions of the season, and they continue to deliver quality fishing right through to spring.

Sarah Henuset with a 24.25-inch Master Angler Tiger Trout, Twin Lakes, December 2025

But the opportunity does not stop there. Northern stocked lakes like Barbe Lake and Footprint Lake offer remote settings, hard-fighting trout, and the potential for truly memorable catches. Whether you are sight fishing with tiny spoons in shallow flats or deadsticking in deeper, clear basins, these stocked lakes provide excitement, accessibility, and year-round trout potential for anglers of all skill levels.

Jonathan McMorris with a 25.5-inch Master Angler Rainbow, Barbe Lake

Lodges and Outfitters Offering Ice Fishing Experiences

If you are looking to elevate your winter fishing adventure, Manitoba is home to an amazing selection of lodges and outfitters ready to help you make the most of the hardwater season. From remote wilderness hideaways in the north to guided greenback missions close to Winnipeg, there are countless ways to take your ice fishing to the next level. These operators provide heated shelters, expert guidance, and comfortable accommodations, making your time on the ice both enjoyable and successful.

Below is a collection of winter destinations and guiding services across the province where you can bundle up, drop down, and experience the very best that Manitoba ice fishing has to offer.

Northern Manitoba Ice Fishing Lodges

Wekusko Falls Lodge

Located in the heart of northern Manitoba, Wekusko Falls Lodge gives anglers an ideal base to target lake trout, pike, and walleye all winter long. With heated shacks, experienced staff, and a warm lodge atmosphere, this destination blends big fish with high comfort.

Learn more in our blog: Top Notch Ice Fishing at Wekusko Falls Lodge

Bakers Narrows Lodge

Sitting on the world-class waters of Lake Athapapuskow, Bakers Narrows Lodge delivers trophy opportunities for both lake trout and northern pike. Guided adventures and cozy on-ice setups ensure the action doesn't stop when temperatures drop.

Read all about this adventure: Ice Fishing for Lake Trout at Its Best, Bakers Narrows Lodge

Viking Lodge

Nestled along the Cranberry Chain of lakes near Cranberry Portage, Viking Lodge provides access to incredible multi-species ice fishing in a scenic northern wilderness setting. The combination of comfortable accommodations and endless angling opportunities keeps anglers coming back year after year.

Explore the experience in this blog: Incredible Multi-Species Ice Fishing, Viking Lodge, Manitoba

All Terrain Bear Hunts

For anglers seeking something uniquely northern, All Terrain Bear Hunts offers backcountry ice fishing with a heated hard-sided ice shack for the ultimate mobile winter experience. This is a true off-grid adventure paired with the comfort needed for long sessions on the ice.

Discover this winter getaway in our blog feature: Back Country Ice Fishing in Ultimate Comfort, All Terrain Bear Hunts

Southern Manitoba Ice Fishing Lodges, Outfitters and Accommodations

Blackwater Cats

Based in Winnipeg and specializing in Lake Winnipeg and the Red River, Blackwater Cats is known for putting anglers on greenback walleye of a lifetime. With expert guides, strategic mobility, and a passion for what they do, this team is a top pick for hardwater success.

Check out the blog: Fishing on Lake Winnipeg at Its Finest, Blackwater Cats

Gaune Fishin’

If you are looking to target Lake Winnipeg greenbacks with a team that lives and breathes winter walleye, Gaune Fishin’ is a standout choice. Their knowledgeable, hardcore crew is always on the move to stay on top of migrating schools, using proven run-and-gun strategies to put anglers on active fish throughout the season. For those wanting comfort and convenience, they also offer beautifully equipped luxury sleeper shacks on the ice, giving you a warm and relaxing place to stay while keeping you right in the strike zone.

Learn more on their website: Gaune Fishin

City Cats

Fishing close to Winnipeg has never been easier with City Cats. Whether you want a quick outing or a full day adventure, Todd makes ice fishing accessible for families, newcomers, and seasoned anglers alike.

Plan your ice fishing trip with their website: City Cats Guiding

Ice Hole Adventures

If you want a full-service experience on the ice, Ice Hole Adventures delivers with comfortable shelters, transportation, and on-ice support. They help anglers explore new waters and enjoy every moment from first drill to final fish.

Book a winter fishing getaway at their website: Ice Hole Adventures

Kannuk Outfitters

Remote overnight trips, heated sleeper shacks, and incredible Lake Winnipeg walleye action are a hallmark of Kannuk Outfitters. They bring comfort to where the fish are, creating an unforgettable northern adventure.

Watch the adventure unfold in Jay's Siemens Adventure with them: The Most Luxurious Ice Fishing Shack, Kannuk Outfitters

Bruin Outfitting and Icebound Excursions

Owned and operated by the same passionate team, Bruin Outfitting and Icebound Excursions offer two incredible ways to experience Lake Winnipeg and beyond.

With Bruin Outfitting, anglers can expect a run and gun style approach to chasing trophy greenbacks. Their knowledgeable guides stay mobile, adjusting to seasonal movements and putting clients where the walleye are most active. They also offer multi-species outings in the eastern region for anglers looking to diversify their winter adventure.

Icebound Excursions brings a whole new level of comfort with fully outfitted SnoBear experiences. Guests can stay warm and dry inside these incredible machines while fishing right over proven hot zones, a perfect combination of luxury and high performance on the ice.

Dive into the experience with our blogs: Top Notch Lake Winnipeg Walleye Fishing, Bruin Outfitting, and Epic Lake Winnipeg Ice Fishing Experience, Icebound Excursions

Canalta Selkirk

If you are staying near Lake Winnipeg for an early morning start, Canalta Selkirk offers warm hospitality and ideal amenities for travelling anglers. It is a reliable home base for walleye missions.

Learn more in our spotlight: The Ultimate Lake Winnipeg Accommodations, Canalta Selkirk

Gull Harbour Marina

Accommodation Providers for the Avid Angler

Canalta Selkirk

If you are staying near Lake Winnipeg for an early morning start, Canalta Selkirk offers warm hospitality and ideal amenities for travelling anglers. It is a reliable home base for walleye missions.

Learn more in our spotlight: The Ultimate Lake Winnipeg Accommodations, Canalta Selkirk

Gull Harbour Marina

For anglers seeking a winter getaway with luxury touches, Gull Harbour Marina on Hecla Island offers comfort, excellent meals, and quick access to outstanding walleye opportunities on Lake Winnipeg.

Discover this island escape in our blog feature: Island Ice Fishing in Luxury, Gull Harbour Marina

Ice Fishing Events to Look Forward to

Beyond the Ice Fishing Show, Manitoba’s winter is packed with exciting annual events for anglers of all ages:

Check back with each event’s website or social channels closer to the season for confirmed dates and registration info.

Gear Up for an Incredible Season

From giant greenbacks and northern backcountry lake trout to family-friendly derbies and cozy lodge getaways, Manitoba’s ice fishing season brings something special for every angler. It is a time when communities come together on frozen lakes, when new memories are made with every bite, and when the cold air only adds to the excitement of what waits below the ice.

As we count down to the Winnipeg Ice Fishing Show and the premiere of The Outpost Season 3, the anticipation is growing for another unforgettable winter. Whether you are planning your first trip, returning to a favourite destination, or checking something new off your bucket list, Manitoba’s winter waters are ready for you. Pack the auger, fire up the sonar, gather your crew, and get set for a season filled with trophy moments and hardwater adventure. The best time of the year is almost here.

You can find all the blogs mentioned throughout this and more in the scroller below.

Featured Ice Fishing Blogs:

Keevin Erickson
Author
Keevin Erickson | Hunt Fish Consultant
Keevin Is a passionate hunter and angler with a love for filming, photography, and writing. Watch for his blogs where he'll share his tips, techniques and stories as he explores the province.
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