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Ice Fishing In Lac Du Bonnet – Canadian Style

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Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba is located almost one hundred and eleven kilometers, which is about 70 miles northeast from the capital city of Winnipeg. Lac du Bonnet is so named because of the bonnet shape of the huge lake that is home to fishing tournaments both in the winter and in the summer months. Ice fishing in Lac du Bonnet is a tradition for both Canadian and American ice fishing enthusiasts, as well as for international anglers. Lac du Bonnet offers may different types of accommodations such as winter fishing lodges, hotels, motels and even smaller bed and breakfasts. Since fishing is a way of life in this small community anglers feel welcome and at home in the friendly community.

Ice fishing in Lac du Bonnet and surrounding waterways typically starts in November when the ice on the lake reaches at least four inches of thickness. There are over sixty-five miles of waterways to fish, so finding that perfect spot is not difficult. The most commonly fished species during the seasonal ice fishing in Lac du Bonnet include pike, pickerel, goldeye and sager. The cold temperatures of the water keep the fish very firm fleshed without the murky or swampy taste that can be found in these species in the warmer and more shallower waters other places in the province.

Ice Fishing In Lac Du Bonnet Tournament

In the spring, typically the middle of March, the local businesses host a tournament for ice fishing in Lac du Bonnet. It is a one day tournament with various categories and prizes including a mystery length prize and mystery time event and up to fifty different prizes which makes it perfect for a family fishing tourney.

The tournament is strictly a catch and release tournament, with specific instructions on how to handle the fish to minimize any trauma or damage. Anglers will be required to stay within specific areas of the lake, and single a tourney judge when they have a fish. The judge will then arrive at the hole, pull the fish from the water, measure, record and release the fish back into the lake. All the judges’ records will then be entered for the mystery time and length drawing as well as the largest fish and other special prizes. The tourney, considered to be environmentally friendly, is one of the most popular aspects of ice fishing in Lac du Bonnet, bringing in thousands of visitors to the area every year.

Standard ice fishing in Lac du Bonnet is popular throughout the winter season and the lake is dotted with ice fishing shelters and houses. To ensure that you can find accommodation make reservations in advance at one of the local hotels or lodges.