Explore Banff National Park

Best Places to Fish in Banff: Top Lakes, Rivers & Creeks

Wondering where to fish in Banff? This guide covers the best lakes, rivers, and creeks in Banff National Park so you can spend less time searching and more time catching fish.

The best places to fish in Banff National Park vary depending on your skill level, gear, and what you're hoping to catch. Banff is vast, with countless places to cast a line, so below I’ve highlighted the top spots to help ensure that anyone with basic fishing skills can have a successful day.

Best Lakes To Fish In Banff National Park

Lake Minnewanka

A pretty lake with a rock island sitting in the middle with pine trees and in the distance the lake ends at the base of a large mountain. — Lake Minnewanka at Banff

Located just a few kilometers from the town of Banff, Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in the park and a popular spot for fishing. When fishing Lake Minnewanka, you can expect to catch lake trout and Rocky Mountain whitefish in these clear, deep waters. The lake is accessible by car and offers several boat ramps, making it a convenient choice for those with their own vessels.

Bow Lake

A clear stream of water is running into a lake that is surrounded by beautiful mountains. — Bow Lake at Banff

Bow Lake is is situated along the Icefields Parkway and is known for its stunning turquoise waters. Fishing here can yield catches of brook trout and cutthroat trout. The lake is relatively accessible with nearby parking and easy shore access, perfect for a peaceful day of fishing surrounded by majestic mountain views.

Moraine Lake

Two people sitting on a rock over looking a clear blue lake that is surrounded by pine trees and mountains. — Moraine Lake at Banff

Famed for its picturesque scenery, Moraine Lake is located in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. It’s a smaller lake compared to Minnewanka but is abundant with rainbow trout and lake trout. Given its popularity, it’s best to arrive early to secure a good fishing spot.

Lake Louise

A pristine lake lined with trees on each side and staggering mountain peaks covered in snow in the distance. — Lake Louise at Banff

One of the most iconic and picturesque lakes in Banff National Park, Lake Louise is renowned for its striking blue waters and majestic mountain backdrop. Fishing here primarily offers catches of lake trout and brook trout. The lake is easily accessible, with nearby parking and various amenities, making it an ideal spot for a family fishing outing.

Best Rivers To Fish in Banff National Park

Bow River

Ariel view of a river running through a valley between mountains. — Bow River inside Banff

One of the most iconic rivers in the park, the Bow River runs through the town of Banff and extends across the park. The river is renowned for its brown trout and bull trout populations. Fly fishing is particularly popular here, with several access points and guided tours available for enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Spray River

A Pedestrian bridge crossing over a shallow narrow river with rocky banks and surrounded by pine trees. — Spray River In Banff

Flowing near the Banff Springs Hotel, the Spray River is a quieter alternative for those looking to escape the crowds. Anglers can catch brook trout and cutthroat trout in these waters. The river is accessible by several hiking trails, offering a serene fishing experience amidst lush forest surroundings. You can check out the current fishing report for Spray River.

Cascade River

A beautiful river running through a narrow canyon, and lined with pine trees on both sides. — Stewart Canyon on The Cascade River

This river flows north from Lake Minnewanka and is known for its brook trout and Rocky Mountain whitefish. The Cascade River can be accessed via a few trails, and its less trafficked areas make it ideal for those seeking solitude while fishing.

Best Creeks To Fish In Banff National Park

Johnston Creek

A small water fall running down a rocky mountain and into a round pool of turquois waters. — Johnston Creek at Banff

Johnston Creek, accessible from the popular Johnston Canyon, is a great spot for catching brook trout. While the canyon itself attracts many visitors, the creek offers more secluded areas upstream where anglers can enjoy a quieter fishing experience.

Healy Creek

A Creek running through snow covered lands, and surrounded by mountains and trees. — Healy Creek

Located near the Sunshine Village ski resort, Healy Creek is home to a healthy population of cutthroat trout. The creek can be reached by hiking trails, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy combining fishing with a bit of adventure. Check out other fisherman's recent fishing trips on fish brain.

Pipestone Creek

A winding creek goes one direction and then does a U-Shape to go back the other direction and surrounded by green grass and pine trees. — Pipestone Creek

Found near Lake Louise, Pipestone Creek is a hidden gem known for its rainbow trout and brook trout. The creek flows through beautiful, less-visited areas of the park, providing a tranquil setting for fishing.

Fishing in Banff National Park is more than just a pastime — it's a way to connect with nature and experience the park's pristine beauty. The lakes, rivers, and creeks here offer some of the best fishing opportunities in the area. The best part is, if they're not biting at one spot, you’ve got plenty of other options. Of course, we all know that catching fish is just a small part of why we love it — it’s more like therapy than anything else. After all, a bad day of fishing is better than a good day at work. I'm sure you will limit out each day! I hope you have an amazing time fishing at Banff.

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FAQ

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