The first thing to notice is the amazing beauty of the Lac La Biche, Bonnyville, or St. Paul area. During the day the sun hits the ice and glitters in the light, making the daybreak sparkle truly stunning. During the sunrises and sunsets, you will see brilliant colours light up the skies. In the darkness of the night, the stars twinkle and the northern lights dance. These are sites that cannot be seen in city. During the day you may see animals, including a moose, through the woods or some that venture onto the ice. If you listen, you can hear the animals as they call to each other. At night there is also the stillness and silence in the darkness. It is very peaceful.
Why choose Lakeland district to ice fish? It says it all in the name, land of the lakes. The Lakeland region has over 50 lakes. With this variety of lakes there is also a variety of fish to catch. Lakeland district has perch, walleye, trout, and pike.
There are many advantages that bring people to visit Alberta’s Lakeland region to ice fish:
- You don’t need experience. Unlike many other sports or forms of entertainment, you don’t need to have experience to enjoy the great outdoors.
- Ice fishing can be done in groups of friends and family, or solo. When a person is wanting to get away from it all and have some alone time, unplugged and reconnect to nature, ice fishing can provide this environment. When a person wants to connect with friends and family in nature, ice fishing can bring them all together.
- Bring home the fish. At the end of the experience, bring home what you catch, clean and eat it! (Of course, regulations must be followed. You may need to catch and release.)
When considering going ice fishing in Northern Alberta, remember a few things:
- If you are fishing with a group, ensure that someone has an auger!
- Bring a comfy chair, during this peaceful time you will spend a lot of time sitting. A comfy chair will keep your behind from freezing and make the time with friends or by yourself that more enjoyable.
Understand what the temperature will be and dress for the weather. If you are cold, then you will not enjoy ice fishing and seeing all the beauty of Lakeland region.
When the fish are caught and fried, at the end of the day enjoy all the hospitality of the local towns including Lac La Biche, St. Paul, and Bonnyville. There are many great local attractions and businesses to see.
Nathan Reeves is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Cool Winter Guide advertising feature. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
