Canada’s vast landscapes and varied climates offer some of the best fishing opportunities in the world. For those who love a unique challenge, night fishing—when quiet waters and cooler temperatures entice fish closer to the surface—is an activity not to miss. However, succeeding as the sun sets requires adapting your approach depending on the season.
This guide will take you through the essentials of night fishing year-round in Canada, from the species you’re likely to encounter to expert tips for making the most of your time on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious traveler looking to explore Canadian lakes and rivers, you’ll discover strategies to elevate your fishing experience.
Why Night Fishing?
Night fishing isn’t just a novelty—it’s a technique with some unique advantages. Many fish species, such as walleye, bass, and catfish, are more active in the evening and night as they move into shallow waters to hunt. Additionally, the waterways are typically quieter after dark, so you’ll face less competition from other anglers.
Fishing at night can also be particularly rewarding during warmer months when fish seek refuge from the midday heat. Plus, with the right preparation, it’s an incredibly peaceful way to connect with nature.
Planning for Night Fishing in Canada
Before you head out, it’s important to plan carefully. Here’s what you should consider:
- Provincial Regulations: Fishing rules vary by province, and night fishing is not permitted everywhere. Ensure you’re aware of the specific regulations for your fishing location.
- Safety Equipment: Always carry a headlamp or lantern, a first-aid kit, a charged phone, and reflective gear for visibility.
- Tackle and Bait: Use glow-in-the-dark lures or attach small lightsticks to your bait to attract fish in low-light conditions.
- Weather and Water Conditions: Canadian weather can change rapidly. Check local forecasts, and always dress in layers for cooler nighttime temperatures.
Now, let’s break down night fishing strategies across Canada’s thrilling seasons.
Spring Night Fishing: Walleye Season Begins
Spring signals the thawing of Canada’s many lakes and rivers, which reignites activity for species like walleye and northern pike. Walleye, a favorite among night anglers, become particularly active in the cooler evenings of this season as they head to shallow water to spawn.
Tips for Spring Night Fishing
- Focus on Structure: Walleye generally rest and hunt near rocks, drop-offs, or submerged vegetation. Aim to position your boat or cast at these features.
- Best Baits: Glow-in-the-dark jigs tipped with minnows can be especially effective. Slowly retrieving or jigging will mimic the natural prey movements that attract walleye.
- Locations: Consider well-known walleye hotspots like Ontario’s Lake Erie or Saskatchewan’s Tobin Lake.
Summer Night Fishing: Bass and Catfish Adventure
While summer is the most popular time for fishing in Canada, it also brings challenges like overcrowded waters and fish retreating to cooler depths during the day. Night fishing solves both problems, making it an ideal time to target species like largemouth or smallmouth bass and channel catfish.
Tips for Summer Night Fishing
- Surface Action for Bass: Bass are more aggressive feeders during nighttime. Use topwater lures like poppers or frogs for exciting surface strikes.
- Go Deep for Catfish: Catfish are highly active at night but tend to feed closer to the lakebed. Stink baits or cut baits fished near the bottom are excellent options.
- Gear Up for Bugs: Summer nights are prime time for mosquitoes. Apply bug spray and consider packing a light bug net for extra comfort.
Prime Summer Spots
Head to iconic destinations like Quebec’s Lake Memphremagog for bass or Manitoba’s Red River for legendary channel catfish.
Autumn Night Fishing: Target Northern Pike and Muskellunge
Autumn in Canada offers crisp weather and stunning scenery, making it one of the best seasons for night fishing. Species like northern pike and muskellunge (muskie) are particularly active, feeding aggressively before the winter freeze.
Tips for Autumn Night Fishing
- Larger Baits: Fall fish are preparing for the scarcity of winter, meaning they’ll hunt for larger prey. Use oversized crankbaits, spinners, or jerkbaits to lure in trophy-sized pike and muskie.
- Slow and Steady: Cooler water temperatures mean fish metabolism slows slightly. Retrieving your bait at a slower pace increases your success rate.
- Keep Warm: Autumn nights can be chilly—don’t forget insulated clothing or a thermos of hot coffee.
Destination Recommendations
Explore Ontario’s Lake of the Woods for northern pike or head to Quebec’s Ottawa River for thrilling muskie action after dark.
Winter Night Fishing: Ice Fishing After Dark
Winter fishing in Canada often means one thing—ice fishing. And yes, it’s possible (and rewarding) to try ice fishing at night. Species like burbot, lake trout, and walleye remain active during the nocturnal hours, offering exhilarating fishing opportunities under Canada’s starlit skies.
Tips for Winter Night Fishing
- Choose the Right Gear: Use a heated fishing tent and a flasher to monitor fish activity beneath the ice. Glow jigs tipped with minnows work well for many winter species.
- Target Burbot: Also known as “lingcod,” burbot are more active at night in winter months. Focus on deeper water areas for this underrated fish.
- Safety First: Always measure ice thickness before heading out (a minimum of 4 inches for walking and 8–12 inches for vehicles).
Top Winter Locations
Check out Alberta’s Lesser Slave Lake for walleye or the Yukon’s pristine Kluane Lake for lake trout.
Bringing It All Together
Night fishing is a rewarding way to enjoy Canada’s bountiful waters at any time of the year. Whether you’re after walleye in spring, bass in summer, or lake trout through the ice in winter, every season offers excitement and opportunities to refine your skills as an angler.
Remember, success at night requires preparation. From bringing the right gear to selecting species-specific tactics and destinations, every detail counts. And don’t forget the most important aspect of night fishing—soaking in the tranquility of Canada’s unparalleled natural beauty under the stars.