Explore the top fishing vacation regions in the Northwest
Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands (BC, CANADA)
1 of 21 Haida Gwaii and the BC North Coast (BC, CANADA)
2 of 21 Southeast Alaska (USA)
3 of 21 Kenai Peninsula (Alaska, USA)
4 of 21 Kodiak Island (Alaska, USA)
5 of 21 Bristol Bay (Alaska, USA)
6 of 21 Alaskan Interior (USA)
7 of 21 BC’s North and Central Interior (CANADA)
8 of 21 Southern Interior BC (CANADA)
9 of 21 Yukon (CANADA)
10 of 21 Northwest Territories (CANADA)
11 of 21 Saskatchewan (CANADA)
12 of 21 Ontario (CANADA)
13 of 21 Alberta (Canada)
14 of 21 Manitoba (Canada)
15 of 21 Quebec (Canada)
16 of 21 Newfoundland and Labrador (Canada)
17 of 21 Oregon (USA)
18 of 21 Montana (USA)
19 of 21 Wyoming (USA)
20 of 21 Colorado (USA)
21 of 21
Haida Gwaii and the BC North Coast
Perched on the very edge of the continental shelf off the northwest coast of British Columbia are the "misty isles" of Haida Gwaii, formerly known as “the Queen Charlotte Islands”. Because of its isolation and unique biodiversity, Haida Gwaii is considered to be the "Galapagos Islands” of the Pacific Northwest. Sheltered from the open Pacific, these fishing grounds produce an abundance of fish over the course of the summer that rivals any locale in Canada or the US.
Kenai Peninsula
What makes the Kenai Peninsula such a sought-after fishing location is its sheer abundance of water. Rivers, lakes, fjords, bays and open ocean provide countless options for both saltwater and freshwater fishing vacations, with charters available at ocean and river fly fishing lodges. The Kenai Peninsula’s river infrastructure supports some of the world’s most plentiful salmon runs as hundreds of thousands of salmon make their way into the area’s waterways to return to their natal streams.
Southeast Alaska
Southeast Alaska (also known as “the Panhandle” or “the Inside Passage”) is a long, narrow coastal strip of land stretching nearly 500 miles from Ketchikan in the south to Yakutat in the north. It’s known for its fjords, mountains, maritime climate, old growth spruce and hemlock forests, glaciers, and of course, the fishing! It includes over 1,000 islands strung just offshore westward from the mainland. Most of the towns in Southeast Alaska can only be reached by plane or ferry.
Kodiak Island
If you’re looking for a remote fishing destination that is out of the ordinary, Kodiak Island is an exceptional choice for your next Alaska fishing vacation. The only way to get to Kodiak Island is by plane or boat and the public road system on the island is minimal. You’ll enjoy the lack of crowds, dramatic landscapes and some of the best salmon and halibut fishing in the world.
Bristol Bay
Bristol Bay is tucked between the Alaska Peninsula and the most eastern part of the Bering Sea. There are several rivers that flow into the bay that receive populous runs of all five species of salmon: red (sockeye), chum, silver (coho) and king (chinook) and pink salmon. The abundance of fish in these waters make Bristol Bay an ideal destination for your Alaska fishing vacation.
Alaskan Interior
If it’s a remote Alaska fishing vacation you’re after, you’ll find yourself far from the crowds and close to nature in Alaska’s interior. This region makes up for nearly 80 per cent of Alaska and is home to the state’s largest river systems. Surrounded by wildland, these rivers, along with a network of streams and lakes, are teeming with many species of fish including Dolly Varden, northern pike, arctic grayling, salmon and more.
BC's North And Central Interior
The north and central interior of beautiful British Columbia is an immense wilderness that offers countless lakes and rivers filled with a diverse range of fish. The region is vast and varied in landscape, from thick forests and rolling hills to golden plains and rocky peaks. The nutrient-rich eco system, crystal clear lakes and plentiful rivers make this region ideal for your BC sportfishing vacation. While you’re pulling in fish after fish, the exceptional scenery will take your breath away.
Yukon
The Yukon is known as Canada’s “land of the midnight sun”. In June and July, you’ll experience round-the-clock daylight, which means round-the-clock fishing opportunities. Later in the summer and into the fall you will be treated to the most beautiful light show on earth: the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. From rugged mountains, hills covered in thick forest to crystal clear lakes and raging rivers full of fish, this piece of paradise is an angler’s dream.
Northwest Territories
Canada’s Northwest Territories is a great area of land scattered with countless expanses of fresh water. This Northern Frontier is scarcely populated and made up of mostly untamed wilderness. There are colossal rivers, trickling streams and hundreds of lakes, most without names, that are teaming with fish. With so much water and so few people, the fishing is fantastic and you’ll likely get the all the fishing you want, all to yourself, on your Northwest Territories fishing vacation.
Ontario
Ontario is a fisherman's dream with its countless lakes and rivers surrounded by beautiful scenery. It's a place where you can fish in peace and enjoy nature's beauty. In Ontario, you can find a wide variety of fish, including the famous muskie in the Kawartha Lakes and plenty of walleye in Lake Erie. The fishing spots here are perfect whether you're up early in the quiet northern regions or near the bustling cities by the Great Lakes. Ontario's waters are full of different fish like bass, perch, and steelhead, making every fishing trip an exciting one.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan is home to over 100,000 lakes and rivers, providing an abundance of freshwater fishing opportunities throughout the entire province. You’ll experience wide open vistas, tranquil lakes, rushing rivers and spectacular sunsets in the "land of the living skies". Expect to catch massive Northern pike, walleye, Arctic grayling, whitefish, goldeye, lake trout, rainbow trout, brook trout and many other species on your Saskatchewan fishing trip.
Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands
Surrounded by the rich waters of the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver Island–recognized by Condé Nast Traveller magazine as the “Top North American Island” for seven years in a row—is known worldwide for its saltwater and freshwater fishing. Fishing can best be described with words like “variety”, “quality”, and “accessibility”.
Southern Interior BC
British Columbia’s southern interior regions offer hundreds of spectacular world-class lakes and rivers. The climate is very tolerable year round, so fishing can be enjoyed in all four seasons. Beside salmon fishing in summer and fall, anglers have many opportunities to target steelhead, coastal cutthroat trout, bull trout and dolly varden.
Alberta
Alberta is a premier destination for anglers, offering a diverse range of fishing experiences across its stunning landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to vast prairies and dense forests. The province's lakes, rivers, and streams are teeming with a variety of fish species, making it a haven for both fly fishers and lake anglers. Alberta’s strong focus on conservation ensures that its pristine waters remain abundant with fish, providing a sustainable and enjoyable fishing environment.
What You Can Catch
Alberta's waters are rich with species like trout (Rainbow, Brown, Brook, Cutthroat, Bull), walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, and lake whitefish. These fish offer a variety of challenges and rewards, whether you're fishing in a clear mountain stream or on a frozen lake in winter. No matter your skill level or preference, Alberta’s freshwater fishing opportunities promise a memorable experience.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan is home to over 100,000 lakes and rivers, providing an abundance of freshwater fishing opportunities throughout the entire province. You’ll experience wide open vistas, tranquil lakes, rushing rivers and spectacular sunsets in the "land of the living skies". Expect to catch massive Northern pike, walleye, Arctic grayling, whitefish, goldeye, lake trout, rainbow trout, brook trout and many other species on your Saskatchewan fishing trip.
Manitoba
Manitoba is a haven for anglers, boasting an impressive array of lakes and rivers set in its vast, unspoiled landscapes. Known for its heart-pounding trophy fishing, Manitoba is a place where fishermen can truly connect with nature. The province is famous for its large populations of walleye and northern pike, offering thrilling catches in waters like Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, Manitoba's diverse fishing experiences, including fly-fishing for trout in its clear streams or ice fishing in the winter, ensure there's always something new to try. With its welcoming fishing lodges and the promise of big fish, Manitoba is a destination that promises memorable fishing adventures for everyone.
ONTARIO
Ontario is a fisherman's dream with its countless lakes and rivers surrounded by beautiful scenery. It's a place where you can fish in peace and enjoy nature's beauty. In Ontario, you can find a wide variety of fish, including the famous muskie in the Kawartha Lakes and plenty of walleye in Lake Erie. The fishing spots here are perfect whether you're up early in the quiet northern regions or near the bustling cities by the Great Lakes. Ontario's waters are full of different fish like bass, perch, and steelhead, making every fishing trip an exciting one.
Quebec
Quebec, with its vast and varied landscapes, offers a rich and diverse fishing experience. The province is home to a multitude of lakes and rivers, making it a paradise for anglers. In Quebec, you can fish for northern pike and walleye in the large, serene lakes or try your luck catching brook trout in the pristine, flowing rivers. Quebec's waters are also home to unique species like the Atlantic salmon, especially in the famous rivers of the Gaspé Peninsula. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot in the wilderness or a full-service fishing lodge, Quebec has it all. The province's distinct seasons also provide a range of fishing experiences, from open-water fishing in the summer to ice fishing in the winter. Quebec's natural beauty, combined with its abundant fish populations, makes it an ideal destination for any fishing enthusiast.
Newfoundland
Newfoundland, an island off the east coast of Canada, is a fishing destination like no other. Surrounded by the North Atlantic Ocean, it offers some of the best saltwater fishing experiences, with opportunities to catch Atlantic salmon, cod, and mackerel. The rugged coastline, dotted with quaint fishing villages, provides a picturesque backdrop for any fishing trip. Inland, the clear rivers and streams are perfect for fly-fishing, where anglers can target world-renowned Atlantic salmon runs. Newfoundland's unique culture and friendly locals add to the charm of a fishing adventure in this part of Canada. Whether you're casting a line in the ocean or wading in a river, Newfoundland offers a fishing experience steeped in tradition and natural beauty.
Oregon
Oregon is a premier destination for anglers, offering a diverse range of fishing experiences. The state boasts renowned rivers such as the Columbia and the Rogue, where salmon and steelhead runs attract enthusiasts year-round. Oregon's numerous lakes, including Crater Lake and Diamond Lake, provide excellent opportunities to catch trout, bass, and Kokanee. Coastal fishing is also very popular, with opportunities for surf fishing and deep-sea charters targeting species like halibut, rockfish, and lingcod. Oregon’s rich fishing heritage, stunning landscapes, and well-managed fisheries make it an ideal location for both seasoned anglers and newcomers seeking a memorable fishing adventure.
Montana
Montana is a treasure trove for anglers, with its sprawling landscapes and abundant freshwater fishing opportunities. Home to iconic rivers like the Yellowstone and the Missouri, Montana is famous for its fly-fishing. Anglers can find trout species including rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout in these pristine waters. The state's numerous mountain lakes also offer great opportunities for catching pike, bass, and perch. Montana's unspoiled natural environment, combined with its diverse fish populations, makes it an ideal destination for both serious anglers and those looking for a tranquil fishing experience in the great outdoors.
Wyoming
Wyoming is a paradise for anglers, offering vast landscapes and excellent freshwater fishing opportunities. Known for its pristine rivers like the Snake and the North Platte, Wyoming is also a top destination for fly-fishing enthusiasts. Anglers can find trout species including rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout in these clear waters. The state's numerous reservoirs, such as Flaming Gorge and Grey Reef, also provide fantastic opportunities for catching bass, walleye, and pike.
Colorado
Colorado, with its majestic Rocky Mountains and scenic waterways, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. The state is renowned for its excellent trout fishing, with an abundance of rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout in its rivers and streams. Colorado's high-altitude lakes and reservoirs also offer unique fishing experiences for kokanee salmon and arctic char. The varied landscapes, from alpine meadows to rugged canyons, provide a stunning backdrop for any fishing trip. Whether you're fly-fishing in the famous Colorado River or exploring remote mountain streams, Colorado's diverse fishing opportunities and breathtaking scenery make it a top destination for anglers of all levels.
Haida Gwaii and the BC North Coast
Perched on the very edge of the continental shelf off the northwest coast of British Columbia are the "misty isles" of Haida Gwaii, formerly known as “the Queen Charlotte Islands”. Because of its isolation and unique biodiversity, Haida Gwaii is considered to be the "Galapagos Islands” of the Pacific Northwest. Sheltered from the open Pacific, these fishing grounds produce an abundance of fish over the course of the summer that rivals any locale in Canada or the US.
Kenai Peninsula
What makes the Kenai Peninsula such a sought-after fishing location is its sheer abundance of water. Rivers, lakes, fjords, bays and open ocean provide countless options for both saltwater and freshwater fishing vacations, with charters available at ocean and river fly fishing lodges. The Kenai Peninsula’s river infrastructure supports some of the world’s most plentiful salmon runs as hundreds of thousands of salmon make their way into the area’s waterways to return to their natal streams.
Southeast Alaska
Southeast Alaska (also known as “the Panhandle” or “the Inside Passage”) is a long, narrow coastal strip of land stretching nearly 500 miles from Ketchikan in the south to Yakutat in the north. It’s known for its fjords, mountains, maritime climate, old growth spruce and hemlock forests, glaciers, and of course, the fishing! It includes over 1,000 islands strung just offshore westward from the mainland. Most of the towns in Southeast Alaska can only be reached by plane or ferry.
Kodiak Island
If you’re looking for a remote fishing destination that is out of the ordinary, Kodiak Island is an exceptional choice for your next Alaska fishing vacation. The only way to get to Kodiak Island is by plane or boat and the public road system on the island is minimal. You’ll enjoy the lack of crowds, dramatic landscapes and some of the best salmon and halibut fishing in the world.
Bristol Bay
Bristol Bay is tucked between the Alaska Peninsula and the most eastern part of the Bering Sea. There are several rivers that flow into the bay that receive populous runs of all five species of salmon: red (sockeye), chum, silver (coho) and king (chinook) and pink salmon. The abundance of fish in these waters make Bristol Bay an ideal destination for your Alaska fishing vacation.
Alaskan Interior
If it’s a remote Alaska fishing vacation you’re after, you’ll find yourself far from the crowds and close to nature in Alaska’s interior. This region makes up for nearly 80 per cent of Alaska and is home to the state’s largest river systems. Surrounded by wildland, these rivers, along with a network of streams and lakes, are teeming with many species of fish including Dolly Varden, northern pike, arctic grayling, salmon and more.
BC's North And Central Interior
The north and central interior of beautiful British Columbia is an immense wilderness that offers countless lakes and rivers filled with a diverse range of fish. The region is vast and varied in landscape, from thick forests and rolling hills to golden plains and rocky peaks. The nutrient-rich eco system, crystal clear lakes and plentiful rivers make this region ideal for your BC sportfishing vacation. While you’re pulling in fish after fish, the exceptional scenery will take your breath away.
Yukon
The Yukon is known as Canada’s “land of the midnight sun”. In June and July, you’ll experience round-the-clock daylight, which means round-the-clock fishing opportunities. Later in the summer and into the fall you will be treated to the most beautiful light show on earth: the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. From rugged mountains, hills covered in thick forest to crystal clear lakes and raging rivers full of fish, this piece of paradise is an angler’s dream.
Northwest Territories
Canada’s Northwest Territories is a great area of land scattered with countless expanses of fresh water. This Northern Frontier is scarcely populated and made up of mostly untamed wilderness. There are colossal rivers, trickling streams and hundreds of lakes, most without names, that are teaming with fish. With so much water and so few people, the fishing is fantastic and you’ll likely get the all the fishing you want, all to yourself, on your Northwest Territories fishing vacation.
Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands
Surrounded by the rich waters of the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver Island–recognized by Condé Nast Traveller magazine as the “Top North American Island” for seven years in a row—is known worldwide for its saltwater and freshwater fishing. Fishing can best be described with words like “variety”, “quality”, and “accessibility”.
Southern Interior BC
British Columbia’s southern interior regions offer hundreds of spectacular world-class lakes and rivers. The climate is very tolerable year round, so fishing can be enjoyed in all four seasons. Beside salmon fishing in summer and fall, anglers have many opportunities to target steelhead, coastal cutthroat trout, bull trout and dolly varden.
Newfoundland
Newfoundland, an island off the east coast of Canada, is a fishing destination like no other. Surrounded by the North Atlantic Ocean, it offers some of the best saltwater fishing experiences, with opportunities to catch Atlantic salmon, cod, and mackerel. The rugged coastline, dotted with quaint fishing villages, provides a picturesque backdrop for any fishing trip. Inland, the clear rivers and streams are perfect for fly-fishing, where anglers can target world-renowned Atlantic salmon runs. Newfoundland's unique culture and friendly locals add to the charm of a fishing adventure in this part of Canada. Whether you're casting a line in the ocean or wading in a river, Newfoundland offers a fishing experience steeped in tradition and natural beauty.