Where is the best ice fishing near Calgary in 2022?

Calgary is a frozen paradise for ice fishing

You may think summer fishing is best, but have you ever tried ice fishing during the colder months? Ice fishing near Calgary is a popular local activity as well as a draw for ice anglers from all over.

Just a two-hour drive from Calgary, you can reach some of the best ice fishing in the country. We’ve put together a list for you to follow with some of the best ice fishing lakes in Alberta.

When does ice fishing season start in Calgary?

Technically, you can fish as long as the ice is thick enough to stand on. However, November and December are ideal.

The weather during these months is still not very cold and the oxygen levels in the water are still quite high. Because of this, the fish are still very active and your chances of catching your dinner are still very good.

Where is the best ice fishing near Calgary?

1) Lake Chestermere

This place is great if you don’t want to drive too far from Calgary. Just half an hour from downtown Calgary, Lake Chestermere has Pike and Perch and is only 12 miles away. This is a very popular spot with the locals, just make sure you get your fishing license before you go.

2) Ghost Lake Reservoir

Ghost Lake is great for water sports and boating in the summer and fishing in the winter. This tranquil lake is even more so in winter, making it a perfect place to spend some peace with your family or a select few friends. Located 60 km from Calgary, it is well worth the drive.

3) Lesser Slave Lake

Woah, not sure what’s up with the name of this lake, but I predict a brand pivot one of these days. Anyway, “Lesser Slave Lake” opens for ice fishing on December 24th and ends on March 31st, 2023. You can fish for walleye, perch, pike, whitefish and burbot in a warming cabin, which is always nice.

4) Chain Lakes Reservoir

Chain Lakes is a very popular fishing spot for both open water and ice fishing. If you are new to fishing or want a more family friendly experience, this is a great place. The weather is amazing, and the lack of wind makes for a much more enjoyable ice fishing experience near Calgary.

5) Eagle Lake

Although this ice fishing lake near Calgary is only five meters deep, Eagle Lake supports a reliable supply of Pike and Walleye. In 2014, they also stocked the lake with 7,500 cutthroat trout fry, so they’re still going strong. Eagle Lake is rich in nutrients and has dense blue-green algae blooms in the summer months. Because of this and the shallow water levels, Eagle is more popular as a winter fishing destination than in the summer.

Is ice fishing safe?

Like any sport or activity, there are guidelines to follow for optimal safety. A minimum of four inches is required for ice to be considered safe. Also, five to seven inches of ice is considered safe enough for a snowmobile or ATV.

Once you’ve determined that the ice is thick enough for your safety, follow general cold safety rules. Bundle up, bring warm water or tea to keep your body temperature up, and be aware of your surroundings.

Ice fishing safety is a topic in itself, so we’ve found this reputable article for you. It will give you all the details on how to best prepare for your day of ice fishing.

Good luck!