37 great Canadian fishing hot spots—all selected by this country’s top women anglers

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JENNA MCKEOWAN

Ottawa, Ontario

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Co-host of TV’s The New Fly Fisher with a passion for outdoor education and conservation.

Instagram: @jennamckeownflyfish

#31  CREE RIVER, SASKATCHEWAN

The Cree offers an incredible fishery for those longing to land large northern pike. There are many days when this coursing river produces multiple trophy-sized northerns, which are broad and strong, as well as long. If you’re looking for an epic freshwater fight on the fly, this is the place to go.

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Best time: August to September

Must-have fly: Northern Magic

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Learn more: www.creeriverlodge.ca

 

LISA ROPER

Lac La Biche, Alberta

Host of TV’s Lisa Roper Outdoors, with a deep passion for fishing and inspiring others to wet a line.

Website: www.lisaroperoutdoors.com

#32  NORTH SASKATCHEWAN RIVER, ALBERTA

This river offers a chance to connect with lake sturgeon, one of Alberta’s most iconic and ancient fish. As well as trophy sturgeon, many other species can also be caught in the deep pools and winding channels. Complete with breathtaking scenery, it’s a perfect spot for variety, challenge and enjoying nature.

Best time: September

Must-have bait: Worms, leeches and frozen minnows

Learn more: www.northsaskatchewanriversturgeon.com

 

APRIL VOKEY

Chilliwack, B.C.

Passionate fly angler, certified fly-casting instructor and owner of Anchored Outdoors, an info resource for fly anglers.

Instagram: @aprilvokey

#33  KAMLOOPS AREA, B.C.

The nutrient-rich lakes around Kamloops produce massive, hard-fighting rainbow trout, known for their acrobatics and vibrant colours. The unique combination of productive lakes, crystal-clear waters and easy access make the area a top destination for fly anglers seeking a world-class trout experience.

Best time: May and June

Must-have flies: Chironomids

Learn more: www.anchoredoutdoors.com

 

MARIKO IZUMI

Fraser Valley, B.C.

Host of TV’s Instill the Catch and director of operations for the guided fishing company Sturgeon Slayers.

Website: www.travelwithmariko.com

#34  FRASER RIVER, B.C.

This is a world-class spot for both catching and researching white sturgeon. Even if you’ve fished all over the world, there’s nothing like connecting with these majestic fish, whether you’re immersed in the water with the big ones, holding up the juveniles or taking part in the conservation tagging program.

Best time: Year-round

Must-have baits: Salmon roe, salmon and lamprey

Learn more: www.sturgeonslayers.com

 

ALY GIESBRECHT

Langford, BC

Multispecies angler who began fishing as a child on northern B.C. lakes, then developed a passion for the ocean.

Instagram: @alyonthewater

#35  SOOKE AREA, B.C.

Here you can target salmon, halibut, lingcod and rockfish in one trip—and you don’t have to travel far offshore to find the fish. There are also many opportunities to participate in local community fishing derbies. The beautiful costal scenery and the chance to see whales while you’re fishing are a bonus.

Best time: August

Must-have lure: Electro Mirror flasher and Phat-E HALO Spoon in black herring

Learn more: www.fishingvictoria.com