In our world of social distancing, what could be better than getting outdoors for a little ice-fishing? Just you, the great outdoors, a frozen lake, or pond and plenty of fish, hopefully. In Central Alberta, we have plenty of areas for you to get out and about; we ask that you follow the rules, check local COVID-19 restrictions, and yes, you still need a fishing license.
In Red Deer, three ponds offer Ice Fishing, Bower Ponds, Mitchell Pond and Three Mile Bend Pond, part of the Waskasoo Park system. Please be aware that all the pond locations are restricted to foot access and are day-use only. We also ask that you refrain from drilling in skating areas or near infrastructure, and any fishing structures are limited to temporary day-use. As the weather is still so unpredictable, make sure you comply with all cautionary signage (thin ice etc.), this way ensuring your safety as you enjoy what our city ponds have to offer.
Have you been to Gull Lake? If not, then this is the time especially if you are into ice fishing. A couple of companies like Adventures Ice Fishing or Gull Lake Fishing Charters offer ice fishing shack rentals, and one of the benefits, if you book with them, is that they know the lake and where the fish are biting. They can also steer you towards what techniques and lures work best if this is your first-time winter fishing.
Sylvan lake is another excellent area for Ice Fishing and has about 100 ice fishing shacks from simple huts to mini cabins dotting the lake. For those who want to show up for the experience, Sylvan Ice Angling Charters can take care of it all, leaving you to enjoy the fishing. If ice fishing isn’t for everyone in your family, there is still snowshoeing, skating and snowmobiling on the lake, definitely a fun day for all.
Don’t forget to visit the Alberta Conservation Association for more fishing information from must-have gear to Ice safety. They offer many other tips, so check them out and make this winter an ice fishing one as we Explore Red Deer’s Backyard.
