Amidst a time when everything feels restricted, today welcomes a weekend of loosening the reigns. From June 12 – 14^th, all Manitoba residents have free access to all provincial parks as well as fishing without a license. So, it seems only logical to send some recommendations your way on where to cast your reels this weekend.

Red River, Lockport

This riverside community, nestled in between Winnipeg and Selkirk, is a hotspot for fishing all year-round. The surface is covered in ice shacks in the winter, while summer welcomes shores abuzz with friendly fishermen casting their reels for catfish, greenback walleye, and sturgeon. If you’re looking to spend a day socializing with fellow fishing fanatics or floating along in your boat, this is the place for you.

Lake Winnipeg, Village of Dunnottar

This shoreline community has everything to offer when it comes to enjoying the water. While its ice fishing huts form a village of their own in the winter, summer brings in the beach dwellers and, of course, the fishing fans. Take a walk down the beach and up one of the piers, before finding yourself a quiet spot to get lost in the waves and that oh-so-familiar feeling of a tug on your line.

Birds Hill Provincial Park

This campground, beach, and hiking-trail haven might not be connected to one of our great lakes, but its manmade beach offers a quiet spot to get some fishing in. Located just a 20-minute drive from our capital city, this park is the perfect place to head this weekend for a full day of fishing, bike-riding, hiking, and everything in between. Don’t forget to check out Pineridge Hollow for some great local gifts and a mouth-watering summer menu.

Lake Winnipeg, Patricia Beach

Located in the Interlake Plain portion of the Manitoba Lowlands Natural Region, the park is stretched along 2.5 kilometers of the south-east shore of Balsam Bay in Lake Winnipeg. Along with Grand Beach, its next door neighbour, this summer spot is a go-to for Manitobans who want to kick back with a beach day. Its natural sand beach, shifting sand dunes, and lagoon/marsh translate to a full day’s worth of fun in the sun. June through September offer a mix of bass, drum, pike, and walleye.

Lake Manitoba, Twin Lakes Beach

Known locally as “Twin Beaches,” this beachside community is located in both the RM of St. Laurent and the RM of Woodlands, making it a great spot for many Manitobans. This site sits on the narrow strip that divides Lake Fracis and Manitoba, and is surrounded by marsh, wetlands, and forest.

Red River, Selkirk

While this one doesn’t fall into a provincial park, we can’t talk about fishing in the Metro Region without mentioning Selkirk. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor of Selkirk, you probably know of its reputation as a major fishing community. This river side city is a lure for all kinds of fishers, amateur and pro. Its waterfront area boasts beautiful views of bridges and river bends, while its community is friendly and ready to serve up some delicious fish dishes. Cast off riverside then head up Manitoba Avenue to local favourites like Roxi’s by the Red Uptown Café or The Mighty Kiwi Juice Bar & Eatery.

Assiniboine Riverwalk, Winnipeg

Last but not least, this urban stretch is perfect for those who aren’t looking to leave the capital city this weekend. Whether you’re making your way to The Forks or just enjoying the view, it’s not uncommon to pass dozens of people fishing along the way. This site normally hosts a fishing derby for all ages in August, and while the derby might not be taking place this year, there is still plenty of fishing fun to be had.

Happy fishing!