Greenback Walleye Frenzy - Lake Winnipeg Ice Fishing 101

March Madness is upon us! The Ice is fully formed, and the Lake Winnipeg stage is set for what is sure to be another incredible March on Big Windy.

Thousands of Anglers from near and far will be travelling to this storied water body in search of its famed greenback walleyes. Renowned for their vibrant emerald hue and impressive size, these fish offer an unparalleled ice fishing experience. With the season concluding on April 6, 2025, the upcoming weeks present a golden opportunity to engage with these prized catches. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer, Lake Winnipeg’s expansive frozen landscape promises thrilling adventures in the pursuit of trophy walleye.

What is a Greenback Walleye?

A greenback walleye is a unique strain of walleye found only in Lake Winnipeg and its tributaries, instantly recognizable by its striking emerald-green coloration. This vibrant hue is caused by the lake’s mineral-rich waters and limestone substrate, which influence the fish’s pigmentation. Known for their impressive sizes often exceeding thirty inches and hard-fighting nature, greenbacks are a top target for ice anglers from around North America and beyond seeking these unique trophy catches.

Their combination of rarity, beauty, and challenge makes them one of Manitoba’s most sought-after game fish, and a bucket-list catch for walleye anglers around the globe.

Where do I find the March Madness Greenbacks?

You can find these legendary walleye in Lake Winnipeg (AKA Big Windy). Big Windy, located in Manitoba, is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, stretching approximately 416 kilometers in length and up to 109 kilometers in width. Renowned for its diverse fish species, including the prized greenback walleye, it offers year-round fishing opportunities.

How do I access the Lake?

There are many great access points on Lake Winnipeg to get onto the ice. Whether you're in a wheeled vehicle, tracked vehicle, snowmobile or Snobear, there are always options for you to get on the lake and get fishing. One of the best ways to stay up to date with the lake conditions is to follow along on the many Lake Winnipeg and Greenback Walleye ice fishing forums on Facebook, as well as to follow on social media some of the many outfitters that are on this lake daily. This can provide some excellent insights to ensure you are fully prepared as you plan for your trip. Now, let's talk about some of the access points.

East Side:

Below are a few great options for ice fishing from the east side of Lake Winnipeg. These options are all under an hour from the Perimeter of Winnipeg, taking highway 59 past South Beach Casino and Resort. If you're looking to spend a few days on the ice searching for that Master Angler-sized greenback, this is a great accommodation option.

Balsam Harbour
Sunset Beach
Beaconia Beach

West Side:

Warner Road
- Warner Road is one of the most popular options for Accessing Lake Winnipeg. Located only 40 minutes from the North Perimeter of Winnipeg and only 25 minutes from the Canalta Hotel in Selkirk, Manitoba. This option serves as a launching point to head across this massive lake and towards the mouth of the mighty Red River, where schools of hungry walleye are feeding in preparation for the spring spawn. The Canalta Selkirk serves as an excellent launching point each morning with comfortable accommodations, a complementary breakfast, a large parking lot for big trailers, and even a fish filleting shack.

Gimli Harbour
- Gimli Harbour is a great option for those looking to explore Lake Winnipeg further. The town of Gimli maintains an ice road throughout the winter, allowing wheeled vehicles of all kinds great access to greenback walleye in front of the stunning Gimli Harbour. This also serves as a great launching point for tracked machines to head out and explore the expansiveness of this area of Lake Winnipeg. The Lakeview Gimli Resort, nestled right on the shorelines beside the ice road, provides comfortable accommodations with a great restaurant. The town of Gimli also has many other great food options and tourist attractions.

North:

Riverton
- If you're looking for a little bit more of an adventure, Riverton is a fantastic option to try your hand at the aggressive walleye that call this unique area of Lake Winnipeg Home. On the shores near Riverton is a long peninsula called Sandy Bar. This relatively shallow area is where most ice anglers target these greenback walleye and trophy northern pike. Access onto the lake is sometimes favourable for wheeled 4x4 vehicles, but at times, tracked machines are recommended. Keep an eye on the online forums for the most up-to-date information.

Hecla Island
- Hecla is a stunning 151 square km (58 square mile) island located on Lake Winnipeg approximately 180kms (110 Miles) North of the City of Winnipeg. Hecla Island features many great options for ice anglers.
- Manitoba Parks provides two ice fishing shacks within walking distance of the shore at the Hecla Village Pier. The shacks are free to use on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Additionally, Gull Harbour Marina and Lighthouse Inn have some incredible amenities for rent for ice anglers, from massive hand-crafted ice shacks to snowmobile rentals and even guided Snobear excursions for full and half days. Additionally, Gull Harbour has an incredible restaurant, comfortable and diverse accommodations, an outdoor Sauna, a convenience store, and even a skating rink on the ice.
- Just down the road from Gull Harbour is Lakeview Hecla Resort, a great place for accommodations. They also have a great restaurant, an arctic spa, and a swimming pool with a waterslide. Many Anglers flock to the island throughout the winter for the incredible greenback walleye fishing, scenic views, and wildlife sightings.

Outfitters and Guides for Greenback Walleyes

1. Blackwater Cats

For an unforgettable ice fishing experience on Lake Winnipeg, targeting giant greenback walleyes, look no further than Blackwater Cats. Owner Donovan Pearase has spent over a decade perfecting his craft, leading a team of expert guides who track the next big bite across this vast, frozen expanse. With years of experience and a deep understanding of this world-renowned fishery, Donovan has built Blackwater Cats into one of the premier outfitting businesses on the lake.

A Well-Planned Adventure
Booking a trip with Blackwater Cats ensures a seamless and well-organized excursion. While Lake Winnipeg can be unpredictable, Donovan and his team have seen it all and are always prepared. Your day begins at a designated access point, where Donovan and his guides will lead the way to the first fishing spot—often a proven location from the day before. With a team of full-time guides on the ice daily, they consistently stay on top of fish movements, maximizing your chances of landing trophy greenbacks.

Navigating the Ice
Whenever conditions allow, Blackwater Cats travels the lake in 4x4 truck convoys, ensuring a safe and efficient journey. If a vehicle gets stuck, the group is there to help. However, Manitoba’s harsh winters can bring deep snow, rough ice, and pressure ridges, sometimes requiring alternative transportation. Donovan will inform you in advance if snowmobiles or tracked vehicles are necessary.

No 4x4? No Problem!
If you don’t have a suitable vehicle, Blackwater Cats has you covered. Whether it’s riding in their tracked Suburban, hopping in a guide’s truck, or renting a snowmobile, they offer flexible options to accommodate all anglers.

Learn more at BlackwaterCats.com

2. Bruin Outfitting

Owned and operated by Matt Cornell, Bruin Outfitting is a premier year-round, multi-species fishing outfitter based in Southern Manitoba. When it comes to ice fishing on Lake Winnipeg, Matt and his team of experienced guides have built a reputation for putting clients on giant greenback walleyes. Their extensive knowledge of this vast fishery, combined with hands-on guidance, ensures an unforgettable experience for anglers of all skill levels.

What to Expect:
Bruin Outfitting offers all-inclusive packages, covering everything from transportation to the lake, pre-drilled holes, heated Clam X2 thermal fish shacks, and high-end equipment, including Vexilar Ice Flashers, rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Whether you’re jigging for trophy greenbacks on Lake Winnipeg or targeting slab crappies, northern pike, lake trout, and jumbo perch in Manitoba’s Eastern Region, Bruin Outfitting delivers a top-tier fishing adventure.

Learn more at: BruinOutfitting.com

3. Icebound Excursions

Recently acquired by Matt Cornell, Icebound Excursions continues to offer a unique way to fish Lake Winnipeg—Snobear rentals. These mobile, heated ice fishing machines allow anglers to stay comfortable while efficiently covering water in search of massive greenbacks.

Rental Options:

Rent a Snobear for the day (fits up to 4 people).
- Rent a Snobear with a guide—the best way to maximize your time and increase your chances of landing trophy walleye.
- Matt’s high-tech approach to ice fishing, utilizing advanced sonar and years of local knowledge, ensures that guests are always in the right place at the right time.

Learn more at SnoBearRental.ca

4. Kannuk Outfitters

Guided Trips:
- Kannuk Outfitters provides top-tier ice fishing adventures on Lake Winnipeg, specializing in greenback walleye. Catering to all skill levels, they offer fully guided trips with pop-up shacks, bait, heaters, hot lunches, and all necessary fishing gear.

Fish House Rentals:
- For those seeking a premium experience, Kannuk also provides luxury Ice Castle Fish House rentals, fully equipped with modern comforts in prime walleye waters. Whether you’re booking a guided trip, group excursion, or corporate retreat, Kannuk ensures a seamless and unforgettable ice fishing experience.

Learn more at KannukOutdoors.com.

5. Gaune Fishin

Gaune Fishin offers exceptional ice fishing experiences on Lake Winnipeg, catering to both comfort-seeking anglers and those eager for active pursuits.

Yetti Ice Fishing Experience:
- Anglers can enjoy luxury on the ice with Gaune Fishin’s Yetti Fish Houses, which are fully equipped with amenities such as Garmin Livescope, satellite TV, and spacious seating. These mobile units are strategically positioned in productive fishing spots, allowing guests to relax and fish in comfort. Both day and overnight rentals are available, accommodating groups of 4-6 anglers.
Run-N-Gun Ice Fishing:
- For those seeking a more dynamic experience, Gaune Fishin provides guided run-and-gun trips across Lake Winnipeg’s southern basin. This approach involves actively moving to locate and target trophy greenback walleye, ensuring anglers are always where the action is. All necessary equipment, including rods, reels, tackle, bait, ice shelters, heaters, and Garmin Livescope, is provided. These trips are ideal for groups ranging from 2 to 9 anglers.

Both experiences are designed to maximize success and enjoyment on the ice. Gaune Fishin handles all the details so guests can focus on the thrill of fishing.

Learn more at: GauneFishin.ca

How to Catch Greenback Walleye

While there are many brands out there that make similar style lures, the basic trio of lures that every greenback angler needs to have in thier tacklebox on the ice is a rattle bait, jigging spoon and some jigs. Depending on the the mood of the fish that day, its good to have one of each tied on and swich up some colours and sizes to see what they are wanting. When dealing with a finese bite, pairing jigs and jigging spoons with a salted or live minnow can really change the success of the day. Take a look at the video below to learn from Jason Mitchell Outdoors on how he breaks apart this massive body of water.

A Bucket List Walleye Destination:

Lake Winnipeg’s ice fishing season is a bucket-list experience for any angler, offering the chance to battle giant greenback walleyes in one of the most renowned fisheries in North America. Whether you prefer the comfort of a heated fish house, the mobility of a run-and-gun adventure, or a fully guided trip with expert outfitters, there are plenty of ways to maximize your time on the ice. With the season winding down on April 6, now is the time to gear up, drill some holes, and take advantage of the world-class fishing opportunities before the ice disappears.