MANITOBA
As an Alberta Clipper ripped across the prairies this week, getting out on the ice just got a bit more difficult. An early lack of snow though did provide good safe ice in many places around the province. As always caution is advised. One of my absolute favourite lakes in the world is Clear Lake in Riding Mountain National Park. With the introduction of Zebra Mussels and the boat ban on the lake, ice fishing is the only chance to experience what a great fishery it is, especially for lake whitefish. These fish grow big and mean in Clear Lake and with the great water clarity it makes for an exciting visual game. By that I mean, on many of the shallower reefs on the north end of the lake you can watch them come into your baits. 
This year has been a good one ice fishing for the whitefish on Clear Lake. Here is a beauty caught by Cayden Quenelle. A few years back we got a whole crew together for a day on the ice in December. It was an awesome day and the article I wrote about it will give you a ton of information on what to expect when you get there. Read it here.
The last couple of weeks have been pretty decent for walleye on the Red River. Check out this beauty caught by Jonathan McMorris
NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO
This week we are checking in with Hooked Contributor Jamie Bruce as he finds a bit of time to get out ice fishing on Lake of the Woods. Jamie has been on some big walleye but seems to be having a bit of a problem getting one of the ice. Check out his latest video here.
SASKATCHEWAN
The ice fishing season is on full bore across the Wheat Province. One of the most overlooked lakes in the province is a bit of hidden gem for walleye, perch and pike. I actually did a Complete Angler television show there a few years back. We had a tremendous day catching the abundant walleye in this shallow, sprawling waterbody in the central part of the province. When I saw this video about first ice walleye fishing on this body of water I had to share it.
ALBERTA – WES DAVID, FISHING THE WILD WEST TV
Good ice has formed across the western provinces. According to social media, Alberta anglers are experiencing great success with December walleye. Northern pike are also being caught in the same areas, which is typical at this time of the year. It looks like there should be some great fishing over the Christmas holidays.
January through February are historically when Canadians travel to warmer destinations for a winter vacation. I have been receiving several emails and messages about booking a fishing trip in other countries while on vacation. I have fished in many different countries while on a winter vacation.
The internet has made it much easier to research and book a fishing trip wherever you vacation takes you. However, below are a few things I have learned that I hope will help you. I have also made it a practice to ask the resort I am staying at if they work with or recommend a fishing guide. In my experience, most of them do work with or recommend a charter company and in most cases, have brochures in the lobby. This is also a bit of a safety net, as the companies will be registered and, in most cases, be members of a tourist organization. But research is key. My next foreign fishing adventure will be in St Lucia, in the Caribbean.
Most Canadian anglers want to target marlin or one of the sailfish species. I have landed both marlin and sailfish, and it is amazing. But be aware before you book. Marlin and sailfish are not a guarantee. I have trolled all day and didn’t have a hookup. I have also trolled for several hours to get one hookup, only to lose the fish halfway through the fight. If marlin or sailfish is on your bucket list, go for it. However, what I get the most excitement and entertainment from is mahi-mahi, barracuda, shark, triggerfish, bonefish, and the many colourful reef fish. Not only are these exciting species of fish that put up a great fight, but they are also found closer inland and are perfect fishing opportunities for half-day or full-day fishing trips. They are also much more budget-friendly.
Have fun on your winter vacation and good luck fishing.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
