Fishing is a popular pastime in Edmonton and the surrounding area. With so many beautiful lakes and rivers to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to cast your line. Luckily, as a resident of Edmonton, you have access to some of the best fishing spots in the province. Here are just a few of the most popular lakes for fishing in and around Edmonton. …and a few that are worth driving a few hours to reach.

ℹ Tip: You can find each of the spots discussed below on this MAP➡

North Saskatchewan River

The North Saskatchewan River runs through Edmonton, and it's a great spot for catching a variety of fish, including goldeye, pike and walleye. There are many other species in our local river including brook trout, perch, burbot and suckers.

There are many great spots to fish on the North Saskatchewan River in Edmonton, including Laurier Park, Hawrelak Park, and Rundle Park. If you don’t mind a short drive, Devon is a beautiful area outside the city. You can fish the North Saskatchewan River there too.

Check out the spots on this map.

Wabamun Lake

Wabamun Lake is 60 KM west of Edmonton by highway. You can catch northern pike, yellow perch and lake whitefish at Wabamun. There are plenty of houses and cabins around Wabamun, and you can find places to stay on Airbnb.

Pigeon Lake

Pigeon Lake is located about an hour southwest of Edmonton and is known for its large population of yellow perch. It is also a great spot for catching walleye, burbot, northern pike and lake whitefish.

Lac Ste Anne

Located about an hour northwest of Edmonton, Lac Ste. Anne is a great spot for catching northern pike and lake whitefish. Other species include Burbot, walleye, yellow perch, and if you’re unlucky enough, white suckers. It's a great spot for ice fishing.

Lake Isle

Located just east of Edmonton, Lake Isle is a great spot for catching pike and perch. We’ve heard rumours of rainbow trout at Lake Isle as well, but we can’t confirm this. It's a popular destination for both fly fishing and ice fishing.

Goose Lake

Goose lake is located about an hour north of Edmonton next to the hamlet of Lone Pine; Population, 1500. Goose Lake is known for its large population of yellow perch. It's also a great spot for catching northern pike and rainbow trout. There is a lakeside campground at Goose Lake with RV services.

Cold Lake

The great fishing, friendly lakeside city and stunning views of Cold Lake make this one of our top recommendations for fishing near Edmonton. This one is more than a 3-hour drive, so we suggest checking into one of the lakeside bed & breakfasts, or staying in a hotel. You can also camp at various areas around the lake. There are campsites just outside, and right inside the city of Cold Lake. There are some full RV hookup sites available. 

This destination boasts beautiful beaches in summer, and excellent ice fishing with ice fishing shack rentals on the lake in winter. Great restaurants in the city, year-round, including our favourites, Picante and Jonny Waffles at the marina.  

Lac La Biche

You’re going to catch pike, walleye and burbot at Lac La Biche. Attached to the town of the same name, Lac La Biche is nestled in the Northern Alberta Boreal Forest. The views are outstanding. The fishing is decent. Worth the 215 KM drive.

Moose Lake

Moose Lake is about a 230 KM drive northwest of Edmonton you will find Moose Lake. There is good perch fishing in Moose Lake. You will also find pike, white fish, walleye and burbot. The city of Bonnyville is a short drive from the lake, and there are plenty of places to camp around the lake. There are also private cabin rentals on Airbnb and an RV park. You can also hotel it in town.

This destination is best in June or early July for the summer season as some years there is algae accumulation by mid-summer. It is good all winter. You will find various ice rinks along the shores, constructed by locals. All are welcome to have a skate!

Marie Lake

If you’re looking to pair your fishing with peace & quiet, stunning views, crystal clear water and great beaches, Marie Lake is for you! This lesser-known lake is truly a gem. There are places to camp, including a serviced campground and the abandoned Shelter Bay campground that no longer has services. Both are great places to set up camp. If you need supplies, you will need to make a 25-minute drive to the city of Cold Lake.

Fishing here you will catch walleye, pike, whitefish and burbot. Go check this lake out. But don’t tell anybody just how amazing it is. It is a rare 10/10 experience in nature, with very few people around, even in peak season.  

Lesser Slave Lake

Lesser Slave Lake is located about 2 hours northwest of Edmonton and is known for its large population of walleye, northern pike and lake whitefish. It's an epic spot for anglers of all skill levels. The town of Slave Lake has everything you need. There are plenty of places to stay, whether you want to get a hotel, rent a waterfront cabin or stay at a full service RV resort. There is even a fishing village right on the river flowing out of the lake that has camping accommodations. The river is navigable by boat to access the lake.

Happy Fishing!

These are just a few of the many great fishing spots in and around Edmonton. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region. And with the right fishing boat, you'll get maximum enjoyment from these fishing destinations!