There’s something extra special about fishing in Kananaskis. Maybe it’s the way the sun hits and reflects off the water in the morning, or how the mountain peaks glisten in the background throughout the day. Either way, you are guaranteed to have a memorable experience and come home with stories worth sharing. From peaceful lakes where you can sit back and relax to rivers that keep you on your toes, these are five of the best places to cast a line and soak up the scenery.
Note Before You Go
Each of these destinations requires a Kananaskis Conservation Pass for your vehicle, and an Alberta angling license if you plan to fish.
Upper Kananaskis Lake
Although both Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes are gorgeous spots, if you’re looking to reel in a few more bites, Upper usually comes out on top. The lake sits right in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, where the mountain air is fresh, the views are unbeatable, and you’ll probably spot just as many hikers and campers as you will anglers. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning casting a line, head out for a hike along the Upper Kananaskis Trail in the afternoon, and still be back in time to cook dinner by the campfire. Fishing here feels less like a hobby and more like a full-on mountain getaway.
Top Type of Fish: Trophy sized rainbow and cutthroat trouts
Regulations: 100m around Rawson Creek open July 16–May 31; rest of lake open year-round. Bait ban. Artificial lures/flies only
Amenities Nearby: Public boat launch, multiple campgrounds, and washroom facilities.
Getting There: From Hwy 1, take Hwy 40 to Kananskis Lakes Trail Road
Insider Tip: Shore fishing is good, but you’ll have better luck by boat in the deeper water. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at Kananaskis Outfitters’ Village location.
Picklejar Lakes
Picklejar lakes are a chain of four alpine lakes connected by small streams. The name comes from the old saying that fishing here is as easy as “catching fish in a picklejar.” Along the way, you’ll likely see hikers and campers, and on warmer days, you might even spot people braving a swim in the icy-clear water at the far end. Surrounded by stunning scenery, this spot feels like a true backcountry adventure with enough payoff to keep anglers coming back again and again.
Top Type of Fish: Cutthroat trout
Regulations: Catch and release. Bait ban. Artificial lures/flies only. Open July 1- October 31
Amenities Nearby: Picnic area, vault toilets, and backcountry camping permitted
Getting There: Travel to the Lantern Creek parking area on Highway 40. Park and cross the highway to locate the trail
Insider Tip: Due to its popularity, it’s best to head out early or visit on a weekday
Mount Lorette Ponds
Mount Lorette Ponds are the definition of peaceful. The water is almost mirror-like, perfectly reflecting the beautiful surrounding scenery. These ponds were once a part of the Kananaskis River but became separate pools after Highway 40 was built. Today, they’re a favourite spot for not just fishing, but also picnicking and paddleboarding, with flat, easy trails that make the area welcoming for everyone. The ponds are stocked with trout three times a year in the spring and summer, so the chances are good that you’ll grab a few bites.
Top Type of Fish: Rainbow trout
Regulations: Open year-round; bait allowed (except bait fish)
Amenities Nearby: Picnic sites, benches, vault toilets, firepits, and water pump
Getting There: From Hwy 1, take Hwy 40 for about 18 km (11 mi) to Porcupine Creek Day Use Area
Insider Tip: This area is extremely accessible, perfect for everyone from babies in strollers to people using wheelchairs
Stick to these spots and you’re guaranteed to experience a fishing adventure like no other. In Kananaskis, every cast comes with a view, a story, and a memory worth keeping forever. So pack your tackle box, plan your route, and get out there.
Share your Kananaskis fishing explorations with us by tagging @explorekananaskis on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Happy exploring!
