Nine species, 60+ kilometres of waterway

The Winnipeg River is one of Manitoba’s premier walleye fisheries. Spring sees aggressive post-spawn feeding along shoreline structure. Fall walleye push into deeper pools near the Town Pier and along the Dike.

• Season: May through October (peak June & September)
• Preferred bait: Jigs tipped with minnows or leeches, crankbaits, spinner rigs
• Typical size: 14–20 inches typical, trophy fish over 28 inches

Lac du Bonnet lake and the rocky shorelines of the Winnipeg River hold excellent smallmouth populations. The Canadian Shield geology provides ideal habitat — submerged boulder fields, points, and drop-offs.

• Season: June through September (peak July & August)
• Preferred bait: Tube jigs, drop-shot rigs, topwater lures in early morning
• Typical size: 12–16 inches typical, trophy fish over 20 inches

Pike are abundant in the weed beds and backwaters of the Winnipeg River. Early season fishing in shallow bays is often explosive. The Lee River mouth is a consistent producer for trophy-class northerns.

• Season: May through October (peak May & June)
• Preferred bait: Spoons, spinnerbaits, large jerkbaits, live suckers
• Typical size: 24–32 inches typical, trophy fish over 40 inches

The Winnipeg River supports a healthy channel catfish population, with fish congregating near the dam and in deeper river holes. Night fishing from shore can be particularly productive during warm summer months.

• Season: June through September (peak July & August)
• Preferred bait: Cut bait, chicken liver, nightcrawlers on bottom rigs
• Typical size: 16–24 inches typical, specimens over 30 inches

Perch are the bread-and-butter species for ice anglers on Lac du Bonnet lake. Schools move between 15–25 feet of water over sand and gravel flats. They’re a favourite table fish and excellent for introducing kids to fishing.

• Season: Year-round (peak October through March under ice)
• Preferred bait: Small jigs with minnow heads, waxworms through ice
• Typical size: 8–11 inches typical, jumbo perch over 12 inches

A uniquely Manitoban species, goldeye are found throughout the Winnipeg River. They put up a spirited fight on light tackle and are traditionally smoked — Winnipeg goldeye is a regional delicacy dating back over a century.

• Season: June through August
• Preferred bait: Small spinners, fly fishing with wet flies and nymphs
• Typical size: 10–14 inches typical

Location: Town of Lac du Bonnet, off Park Avenue near the Town Pier

Paved ramp, parking, close to amenities. The most popular launch.

Location: South shore of Lac du Bonnet lake, off PR 313

Good ramp with trailer parking. Access to the full lake and Winnipeg River system.

Location: East of town off Lee River Road

Smaller launch suitable for car-top boats and canoes. Provides direct access to Lee River.

A valid Manitoba angling licence is required for all residents and visitors aged 16 and older. Licences are available online through the Manitoba government website or at local vendors in Lac du Bonnet. Canadian residents can purchase a conservation or sport licence; non-residents require a non-resident sport licence.

Lac du Bonnet falls within Manitoba Fisheries Division 23. Key limits for the sport licence include:

• Walleye: 4 sport / 2 conservation (1 over 55 cm)
• Northern Pike: 4 sport / 2 conservation
• Smallmouth Bass: 4 sport / 2 conservation
• Channel Catfish: 4 sport / 2 conservation
• Perch: 25 sport / 25 conservation

Limits are subject to change. Always verify current regulations in the official Manitoba Angler's Guide before fishing.

Ice fishing on Lac du Bonnet lake typically runs from mid-December through late March, depending on conditions. Perch are the primary target on the lake, with walleye and pike also available. The Winnipeg River doesn't freeze reliably near town due to current, but the lake offers extensive safe ice in most winters.

Portable huts and auger rental are available from local operators. Many ice anglers set up on the sand flats in 15 to 25 feet of water, using small jigs tipped with minnow heads for perch and larger presentations for walleye.

The annual Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby is one of Manitoba's marquee winter events, drawing over 1,100 participants to the frozen lake each March. Prizes are awarded for the largest fish in several species categories, with significant cash payouts and raffle prizes.

The derby has a community festival atmosphere, with food vendors, warming tents, and a camaraderie that brings locals and visitors together. It's become a signature event for the town and a highlight of the winter season.