Manitoba Master Angler Highlights: Trophy Catches from Across Manitoba
Every season, Manitoba’s Master Angler Program gives us a glimpse into just how special the province’s fisheries truly are — and this season has been no exception. From northern giants to hidden gem surprises, the most recent entries into the program showcase the remarkable diversity and quality of fishing available across the province.
This blog highlights a selection of standout catches submitted to the Master Angler Program over the past few weeks, spanning well-known destinations like Lake Winnipeg and the Winnipeg River, to lesser-traveled fisheries such as the Roseau and Carrot Rivers. Whether it’s a 46-inch northern pike, a trophy trout in the Parkland, or a surprise sucker or drum, these catches tell the story of Manitoba’s waters — from deep lakes to winding rivers, and everything in between.
Budd's Gunisao Lake Lodge Continues to produce Masters
Gunisao Lake continues to prove why it stands among Manitoba’s most productive trophy fisheries. Known for its consistent quality and variety, Budd’s Gunisao Lake Lodge has once again delivered a string of impressive Master Angler catches. John Nichol and Karlee Winkelman each landed thick-bodied 30-inch walleye — the kind of fish that keeps anglers coming back year after year. while other guests showcased the lake’s diversity with a 41-inch northern pike and a surprise Master Angler sucker. Whether it’s walleye, pike, or something unexpected, Budd’s Gunisao Lake Lodge continues to produce memories — and Master Anglers — in every season.
Red River Giants: Channel Cat Madness and a Surprise Sturgeon
There’s something special about the Red River in the summer — the current, the chaos, and the sheer power of the fish that call it home. Known as the catfish capital of the world, this river has once again lived up to its reputation. Logan Sichewski’s recent catch — a 38-inch Master Angler channel catfish — is a prime example of the heavyweights that roam these waters. Thick, powerful, and absolutely relentless, these cats are a favourite for good reason.
But the Red didn’t stop there. In a surprise twist, Joel Cloutier hooked into something even bigger — a massive 46.75-inch lake sturgeon. Ancient and armored, this prehistoric species isn’t commonly expected during a day of channel cat fishing, but when it shows up, it’s unforgettable. The Red River continues to prove that you never really know what’s lurking beneath the surface — and that’s exactly why we keep coming back.
Lake Winnipeg Greenbacks: The Bite Stays Hot at Hecla
Lake Winnipeg’s legendary greenback walleye are still on the feed, and the bite shows no signs of slowing down. With water temps stabilizing and the fish locked into predictable patterns, anglers continue to land Master Angler-class walleye across the south basin. Among the recent standouts are Megan Anger’s 28.5-inch greenback, Petro Hrynda’s 28.25-inch fish, and Daniel Card’s tank of a walleye stretching 31.25 inches.
Hecla Island has emerged once again as one of the most consistent producers on the lake, with easy access, a variety of structure, and great accommodations nearby. Anglers launching out of Hecla have found success along the reef edges and current seams, with several local outfitters and lodges offering the perfect base for a Lake Winnipeg adventure. Whether you’re chasing your first Master Angler or another notch on the rod, Hecla is proving to be the place to be.
Lake Manitoba & Delta Marsh: Walleye Action and Underrated Trophy Species
Lake Manitoba continues to offer up excellent walleye fishing, with many anglers finding success in the shallows just off the shore, working depths of 6 to 10 feet. While the green and gold have been the main attraction, the lake is also producing some impressive bonus catches. Tyler Carey recently earned a Master Angler badge with a 15-inch brown bullhead — a species often overlooked, but one that’s always welcome when it reaches trophy size.
Over at Delta Marsh, Tara Gair landed a 25.35-inch freshwater drum, further proving the diversity and quality of fish that call this area home. Whether you’re after walleye or open to a surprise, Lake Manitoba and Delta Marsh continue to deliver memorable days on the water.
Parkland Lakes: Trout Colours and Bronze Battles
Manitoba’s Parkland region continues to be a hotspot for fly and spin anglers chasing vibrant trout and hard-fighting bass. Bower Lake produced a beautifully marked 22.3-inch brown trout for Ryan Yaskiw, while Jenna Furkalo landed a striking 24.75-inch rainbow from the same waterbody — both qualifying as Master Angler catches. Not far away, East Blue Lake delivered a 22-inch rainbow trout for Daxton Kulcsar, rounding out an impressive run of parkland bows and browns.
The smallmouth bass bite has also been heating up in the region. William Lake kicked out an 18.25-inch bronzeback for Aiden Miller and a solid 19-incher for Ryan Yaskiw, while Noah Messner cracked the 21-inch mark a little bit south at the Deloraine Reservoir. With picturesque backdrops, easy access, and a variety of well-stocked lakes, the Parkland and western reaches remain one of the most reliable regions in the province for anglers looking to check multiple Master Angler species off their list in a single trip.
Lake of the Prairies: Big Pike Emerging, Walleye Staying Strong
Long known for its incredible walleye fishing, Lake of the Prairies is now earning a new reputation — as a go-to destination for giant northern pike. While the lake has always been popular for its numbers and eater-sized walleye, recent years have seen an increase in both the size and consistency of trophy pike being caught. One of the most impressive catches this season came from Nick Pieterse, who landed a massive 46-inch Master Angler northern — a clear sign that the lake is evolving into a true big pike hotspot.
Walleye fishing remains as strong as ever, with anglers finding success throughout the reservoir during spring and summer, both from shore and boat. Whether you’re targeting numbers or size, Lake of the Prairies continues to deliver — and the rising presence of monster pike has only made this western Manitoba gem even more appealing for multi-species anglers.
Unexpected Diversity: Big Catches from Rivers and Northern Waters
Beyond Manitoba’s marquee fisheries, several rivers and northern systems have been quietly producing impressive Master Angler catches this season. The Fisher River delivered a 26.37-inch freshwater drum for Dawson Forster — a great reminder that even tucked-away systems can hold trophy-calibre fish. Over on the Carrot River, Emily Day landed a 17-inch goldeye, showcasing a species that often flies under the radar but rewards precision and patience. The Red Deer River added to the list with a massive 33.25-inch common carp caught by PJ McIntyre — a powerhouse fish that’s becoming increasingly popular with river anglers.
Then there’s Clearwater Lake — a name well-known to trout anglers across the province. Charles Gemmill confirmed its status once again with a beautiful 35-inch lake trout, reinforcing Clearwater’s reputation as one of Manitoba’s most reliable destinations for big lakers. Whether you’re chasing underappreciated species in lesser-known waters or returning to a proven northern hotspot, these fisheries are proof of the diversity and opportunity found across Manitoba.
Dauphin Lake: Underrated Walleye and Unexpected Variety
Located in Manitoba’s Parkland region just east of the community of Dauphin, Dauphin Lake often flies under the radar when it comes to top-tier fishing destinations — but that’s exactly what makes it special. Known by locals for its healthy walleye population, the lake sees far less pressure than other southern hotspots, yet continues to quietly produce quality fish throughout the open water season.
In addition to walleye, the lake is home to a wide range of species, including Master Angler-class brown bullhead. Allison Watson recently earned not one, but two Master Angler badges on Dauphin Lake, landing bullheads measuring 14.5 and 16.7 inches — a testament to the diversity the lake has to offer. For anglers looking to mix solid walleye fishing with the chance at something a little different, Dauphin Lake deserves a second look.
Eastern Manitoba: Classic Waters and Quiet Surprises
The eastern region of Manitoba has long been a favourite among anglers, thanks in part to the Winnipeg River system, which winds through granite shorelines, deep channels, and classic Canadian Shield structure. Known for its walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike, the Winnipeg River continues to produce Master Angler catches year after year, including a recent 18-inch smallmouth bass landed by Katelyn Dorsch that showcases the calibre of fish this system is known for.
Not far south, White Lake, nestled in the heart of the Whiteshell Provincial Park, stands out as one of Manitoba’s most accessible and enjoyable multi-species fisheries. Surrounded by stunning scenery and rich in angling opportunity, the lake has gained a reputation for its black crappie — with Dorrian Selley’s 14-inch Master Angler fish adding to its legacy. Whether you’re after crappie, pike, perch, or bass, White Lake offers consistent action and the potential for a trophy.
Meanwhile, in a less-travelled part of the region, the Roseau River produced a surprising 29-inch Master Angler walleye for Lukas Lik. Flowing through agricultural land and forest along the U.S. border, the Roseau is often overlooked by anglers chasing more traditional river systems. But as this catch proves, even these quiet corners of the province can hold some serious fish for those willing to explore them.
A Resource for Anglers, A Celebration of Manitoba Fishing
The Master Angler Program isn’t just a badge of honour for those who land trophy fish — it’s also an invaluable resource for anglers looking to discover new locations, target different species, or better understand seasonal trends. Each entry tells a small piece of the bigger picture: that Manitoba is home to some of the most accessible and exciting freshwater angling opportunities in North America.
Whether you’re planning your next fishing trip or just want to see what’s being caught across the province, the Master Angler Program is an amazing showcase of what Manitoba has to offer — one catch at a time.
