Kicking Off the Season Right: Master Angler Catches from the Start of Manitoba’s Open Water Season
The 2025 open water season kicked off with a bang across Manitoba, and anglers wasted no time putting up Master Angler numbers. From giant pike in the north to record-book drum, smallmouth, and walleyes in the west and south, this round-up features some of the best early-season catches submitted to the Manitoba Master Angler program.
Scroll through each region to see who’s been reeling in monsters so far—and get inspired to chase a Manitoba Master of your own.
Northern Manitoba: The Home of the Giants
Northern Manitoba is often thought of for its remote fly-in fishing, but the early season catches prove there are also world-class drive-to opportunities. Red Lake, located just off Highway 39 between Snow Lake and Cranberry Portage, is a northern pike paradise with easy access and trophy potential. Rocky Lake, north of The Pas, is a smallmouth bass stronghold, offering some of the best early-season bronzeback action in the province. And the Odei River, tucked off PR 280 north of Thompson, delivers big walleye in a scenic, rugged setting that's as untouched as it is productive.
Fly-in destinations also continue to shine in the North
Gunisao Lake, home to Budd's Gunisao Lake Lodge, remains one of the most consistent trophy walleye producers in Manitoba. With the added bonus of giant pike and incredible service, it's a prime supporter of the Master Angler program and a top-tier northern experience.
Western Manitoba: A Mixed Bag of Trophies
Western Manitoba continues to hold its own with a variety of early-season trophy fish. Lake of the Prairies remains a go-to spot for giant pike. Rossman Lake, often underrated, produced a walleye hitting the magical 30-inch mark. Wellman Lake stood out for exceptional smallmouth bass fishing, while Mary Jane Reservoir and Lake Minnewasta delivered great crappie action, proving that panfish are still a major draw in the region.
Lake Winnipeg: Early Greenback Action
Lake Winnipeg is officially open and already turning heads with early greenback walleye action. Anglers have been hauling in Master Angler-sized fish from day one, with multiple 30+ inch trophies hitting the net. For those looking to dial in on the bite, check out our recent blog about Hecla Island to learn why this world-class fishery is a spring hotbed for Manitoba’s most famous walleye.
Red River: Big Cats Are Back
The Red River is now open for catfish season, and the early action has been outstanding. Known as the channel catfish capital of the world, this stretch of river from Lockport to Selkirk offers incredible accessibility for both boat and shore anglers. Big, hard-fighting cats are being caught daily, making this fishery a favorite for locals and travelling anglers alike.
Lake Manitoba & Tributaries: Drum and Carp Domination
The Lake Manitoba system continues to show its trophy potential. The Whitemud River is producing monster freshwater drum, and Delta Beach has seen everything from big drum to massive carp. Meanwhile, the Lake Manitoba Narrows is becoming a hotbed for both walleye and drum fishing. This underrated fishery is gaining well-deserved popularity every year.
Eastern Manitoba: Canadian Shield Catches
The Eastern Region of Manitoba has seen its fair share of trophy catches this season. Despite a dry spring and active forest fires that have impacted the area, anglers have still managed to find success. That said, anglers are advised to consider fishing in other regions of the province for the time being. Stay updated on provincial bulletins and avoid fire zones while crews work to contain the blazes. Once conditions improve, the incredible fishing opportunities in the east will be ready and waiting.
Parkland Stocked Trout Lakes: Trout Trifecta
The Parkland region continues to deliver world-class stocked trout fishing. From browns and rainbows to aggressive tiger trout, the variety and size of fish coming from lakes like Patterson, Twin, and Corstorphine are second to none. Whether you're float tubing or casting from shore, these fisheries offer a chance at a trout slam in a single weekend.
Trophy Season Has Begun
From north to south, east to west, Manitoba anglers are already stacking up Master Angler catches just weeks into the open water season. Whether you’re chasing greenbacks on the big lake, hauling cats from the Red, or chasing exotic trout in the Parkland, there’s no shortage of early-season action to be found.
Think you’ve landed a trophy? Submit your catch to the Manitoba Master Angler program, and you could be featured next!
