Hot Lakes, Trophy Fish and Travel Updates: Manitoba’s February Ice Fishing Report
Manitoba’s ice fishing season really settles into its stride in February. The days start to feel a touch longer, the fish are settled into winter patterns and the next bite can be anything from a quick evening flurry to the kind of heavyweight that makes your hands shake on the way back to the truck.
This report is built from what anglers are seeing on the ice right now across the province, including fresh notes from recent conversations with anglers and guides. From Lake Winnipeg greenbacks and surprise pike, to Interlake sunset pushes, to stocked trout waters that keep producing trophy fish, February has been delivering plenty of reasons to keep drilling.
One important travel note, with the amount of snow this winter, many unmanaged accesses can only be traversed with tracked machines once you are out on the lake. If a snowmobile or track unit isn't in the cards, we’ve highlighted a few managed-access options, ice-fishing villages, and areas that can help you still get out and fish.
Lake Winnipeg
Lake Winnipeg has been treating anglers well heading into the heart of February, with steady action and some seriously impressive fish showing up in the mix.
“Lake Winnipeg has been pretty good the last week for us,” said angler Petro Hyrnda. “Can’t get out far in a truck though, but tracks and light quad travel is no problem,” Petro added that the bite has included some big walleye, plus the kind of northern pike that can turn an ordinary day on the ice into a story you will be telling all winter.
For anglers looking to keep things simple and stay on consistent fish, Lake Winnipeg’s outfitters have continued to dial in big greenbacks and trophy-class opportunities, even as conditions and travel options shift week to week. If you want a deeper breakdown of Lake Winnipeg outfitters, greenback walleye tactics and what to expect from an ice fishing trip on the lake, check out our blog, Greenback Walleye Frenzy, Lake Winnipeg Ice Fishing 101.
Interlake Region of Manitoba
Lake Manitoba
Lake Manitoba has been up to its old habits this winter, continuing to deliver as one of Manitoba’s most consistent walleye producers. While there has been a bit of that typical February lull at times, the magic window before and after sunset continues to be the most reliable stretch, with fish often showing up in waves as they slide shallow for the evening feed. A lot of that action has been happening in the 3 to 7 foot range, especially when anglers stay mobile and keep an eye out for those short bursts of activity.
The burbot bite has stayed in the mix as well, making regular appearances most days and at all hours. For anglers willing to push out to deeper water, it is also a great time to hunt for schools of perch. Once you get set up on them, fishing can be excellent, with perch coming steadily and the odd walleye moving through the school now and then.
As February rolls along and we inch closer to March, Lake Manitoba is setting up for another run of March Madness, when each day closer to the walleye spawn can bring a noticeable jump in activity and more consistent feeding windows.
Shoal Lakes
The Interlake Shoal Lakes, especially East Shoal and West Shoal, have continued to shine for Master Angler yellow perch. West Shoal has been producing the bulk of the trophy-sized fish so far and this bite often improves as winter starts to loosen its grip. Expect plenty more Master Angler-calibre perch to come out of these lakes through the rest of February and into March.
Northern Region of Manitoba
Northern Manitoba continues to be a go-to for anglers chasing trophy lake trout, with multiple systems producing standout fish and plenty of variety for anyone looking to mix in other species.
Fishing guide Mac Mulligan from Viking Lodge said Lake Athapapuskow has been kicking out some mega lake trout lately, including a monster 45.25-inch trout landed on the big lake. Back toward the lodge side, around Cranberry Portage, he added that Second Cranberry Lake has been delivering excellent lake trout fishing with a strong average size. Along with the lakers, Mac noted that ice anglers have been targeting walleye and northern pike across the Cranberry Chain, plus stocking supported trout opportunities in nearby Portage and backcountry lakes.
We have also been seeing some great rainbow trout from Barbe Lake, located in the Clearwater Lake area near The Pas. Barbe has a long-standing reputation as a rainbow producer and it is also home to brook trout.
Kississing Lake, near Sherridon, has been icing some impressive trout as well, including Master Angler-calibre fish. With its scenic islands and long fingers, it offers tons of water to explore, plus excellent opportunities for walleye and northern pike and some of the biggest burbot potential in the province.
Clearwater Lake continues to be a big lake trout machine through the winter. Located just north of The Pas, this crystal clear lake draws anglers from near and far, year after year, for its trophy lake trout and multi-species potential.
Western Region of Manitoba
The western region of Manitoba continues to be an underrated player in Manitoba’s ice fishing landscape, with plenty of lakes producing Master Angler-class fish year after year.
Pelican Lake, near Ninette, is a western reservoir that has risen to the ranks of top producers. From chunky walleye to football perch and thick northern pike, it is a strong choice for anglers who want action and the chance at a standout fish, especially if you are looking to explore new water in the region.
Right next door, Rock Lake is another reservoir that has become well known for big northern pike and football Perch. With scenic valley views and smaller crowds, it has become a local favourite for anglers who like a quieter day on the ice while still fishing water with serious trophy potential.
The stretch of the Assiniboine River near Brandon has also been drawing a lot of attention. While anglers can connect with species like walleye and northern pike, the real winter trend has been targeting lake sturgeon. Many anglers have been camping out on the river this winter and hooking into giant, prehistoric river monsters that make for unforgettable ice fishing battles.
Other western region waters worth a quick mention include Lake Metigoshe in the Turtle Mountains, known for consistent bluegill fishing right on the Canada, USA border. Oak Lake, near the town of Oak Lake, is a local favourite for chunky perch and great eating class walleye. Mary Jane Reservoir, near Manitou, is stocked with species such as walleye and largemouth bass and is also well known for Master Angler-sized crappie. Finally, Lake Wahtopanah, near the town of Rivers, has produced some impressive northern pike from this reservoir system.
Parkland Region of Manitoba
The Parkland region has become famous for its incredible stocked trout fishing and for good reason. We will get into those trophy trout waters in a second, but first, it is worth starting with one of the region’s true heavy hitters.
Lake of the Prairies, located between Roblin and Shellmouth, continues to show why it is considered a superstar reservoir in Manitoba’s ice fishing scene. It has been consistently producing Master Angler yellow perch and walleye and it has also earned a reputation for some of the biggest northern pike in the province, the kind of fish that can turn a day trip into a once-in-a-lifetime catch.
Next up is Twin Lakes in the Duck Mountains. This powerhouse stocked trout lake has become synonymous with trophy-class tiger trout across North America and this winter has been no different. Anglers continue to make the trip for a legitimate shot at a tiger trout that is bigger than most people expect to see come through the ice.
Persse Lake, also in the Duck Mountains near the town of San Clara, has been quietly producing some of the biggest brown trout in Manitoba this winter. It is the kind of lake that rewards anglers who put in time, stay patient and are ready when a big fish finally shows up on the flasher.
To round out the Parkland report, Corstorphine Lake and Patterson Lake have both been pumping out some seriously giant rainbow trout this season. These two lakes are only about 30 minutes apart, making them a perfect weekend pairing for anglers who want to hop between two trophy waters and double their chances at an unforgettable rainbow.
Eastern Region of Manitoba
The Eastern Region, especially the Whiteshell, continues to be one of Manitoba’s most reliable areas for panfish and a perfect place to mix in bonus species on the same trip. Angler Petro Hyrnda has been seeing it firsthand this winter, noting that “the crappie in lakes across the Whiteshell have been unreal all winter,” and he expects that bite to stay strong as the season begins to wind down and late winter patterns set in.
Beyond the fishing, the Whiteshell is simply a stunning place to spend a day on the ice, with classic Canadian Shield rock outcroppings, pine-lined shorelines and clear water views that make even a quick afternoon feel like a getaway. The best part is how many lakes in this region offer true multispecies opportunities, meaning you can target crappie and still encounter walleye, pike, perch and more, depending on where you set up. For more on targeting crappie and other underappreciated winter species, check out our recent blog, Underrated Ice Fishing Species in Manitoba.
McHugh Lake, located in Whiteshell Provincial Park between Falcon Lake and West Hawk Lake, has also been a standout. This hike-in lake is well known for trophy stocked trout, including tiger trout and brown trout and the reports so far this winter have been strong, making it a great option for anglers who want an ice fishing adventure with a real shot at a memorable fish.
Big Whiteshell Lake is another excellent pick in the park, offering classic multispecies fishing and some seriously big crappie. It is also a top location for Master Angler tullibee and a common destination for anglers working toward their Master Angler tullibee specialist awards. With plenty of quality fish being entered recently, Big Whiteshell is a great place to plan an adventure before the season wraps up.
Managed accesses, ice villages, and events
Manitoba has no shortage of ways to get on the ice, especially if you are looking for maintained routes, community-style fishing areas and spots that make a day trip feel straightforward. For planning help across the province, including Lake Winnipeg hubs and practical walk-on or ride-out options, check out our blogs Best Ice Fishing Access Points for Greenback Walleye on Lake Winnipeg and Ice Fishing Without a Snowmobile.
On the Red River, LockportLIVE continues to be a popular managed access area on the well-known “Miracle Mile” stretch between Lower Fort Garry and Lockport, giving anglers a shot at sauger and greenback walleye with a real chance at a Master Angler fish. The village entrance is beside Red River Cats at 669 River Road and they also share updates through the LockportLIVE Facebook page, which is worth checking before you head out.
On Lake Winnipeg, the Gimli Ice Fishing Village is another great community option and their posts and local group chatter are a handy way to stay current on access and activity. Up the lakeshore, Sandy Bar and Riverton remain a classic destination for anglers chasing greenback walleye and trophy northern pike and the Sandy Bar Fishing Club community pages are one of the best places to watch for the most up-to-date local updates.
Upcoming Ice Fishing Derbies:
Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby, Saturday, February 28, 2026
A long-running, family-friendly event with a strong community vibe and major prizes. The derby rules list fishing hours from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with participants permitted on the ice starting at 10:00 a.m.
Falcon Lake Winter Fish Off, Saturday, March 14, 2026
A big, high-energy derby held off Falcon Lake Main Beach, with thousands of pre-drilled holes and a major prize list, including a $20,000 grand prize and over $80,000 in guaranteed cash and prizes.
Last Call Before the Late Winter Push
February is the stretch where consistency starts to build and the best days often come from leaning into the windows that have been most reliable, staying mobile when you can and keeping your plans flexible if travel changes overnight.
If you are hoping to squeeze in a few more trips before the season winds down, use this fishing report as a springboard. Pick a region that fits your travel plans, then dial it in with local updates and access info before you head out. Late winter can deliver some of the most memorable fish of the year and with derbies coming up and plenty of waters still producing, there are still a lot of good days left to be had on the ice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Where are the best Manitoba areas to chase trophy lake trout right now?
Northern Manitoba is leading the way, with Lake Athapapuskow, Clearwater Lake and Kississing Lake all producing strong lake trout opportunities this winter.
2) What is a reliable Manitoba option for evening walleye in February?
Lake Manitoba is a great pick, with the most consistent action often happening in the hour before and after sunset, including fish sliding shallow in the 3-7-foot range.
3) Where can I target crappie in Manitoba through late winter?
The Whiteshell region has been a standout for crappie all winter and it remains a strong option as the season winds down.
4) Which Manitoba stocked trout lakes are producing trophy fish this season?
In the Parkland and eastern regions, Twin Lakes is known for tiger trout, Persse has been producing big brown trout, Corstorphine and Patterson have been pumping out large rainbows and McHugh Lake in the Whiteshell has also been getting strong reports so far this winter.
5) What Manitoba ice fishing derbies should I plan around next?
The Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby runs February 28 and the Falcon Lake Winter Fish Off runs March 14, both are popular annual events with strong participation, great prizes and a fun winter atmosphere.
Best Ice Fishing Access Points For Greenback Walleye On Lake Winnipeg
Ice Fishing Without a Snowmobile: Top 4 Places to Fish in Manitoba
The Guide to Family-Friendly Ice Fishing in Manitoba
Underrated Ice Fishing Species in Manitoba
Greenback Walleye Frenzy — Lake Winnipeg Ice Fishing 101
The Lake Trout Triangle in Northern Manitoba, a Winter Guide to Trophy Lakers
Best Ice Fishing Spots in Manitoba: A Winter Guide to the Season Ahead
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