Located within Chain Lakes Provincial Park, this reservoir provides fabulous fishing opportunities for numerous species of trout: rainbow, brook, bull, and cutthroat. While the Chain Lakes are heavily stocked — some of the heaviest in the province — the popularity of these lakes means that most of the fish are in the smaller range of about 12 inches. What the fish lack in size, however, is made up for by their abundance. These trout are eager to bite. Brook trout are also caught in the lakes, migrating through Willow Creek. Combined, the brook and rainbow stock make for reasonable assurance of success. Remember, though, at-risk bull trout must be released in good condition. Fly fishing is rewarding on Chain Lakes. Leeches, Caddis and Dragonflies can all be good choices when targetting trout. Lures such as spinners and spoons are good hardware choices for consistent catches. If you are trolling in these lakes, bear in mind the speed restriction of 12 km/h. Use of bait fish is not permitted in any water in the drainage basin, and no bait of any sort is allowed in streams. All streams in the basin are closed to fishing from November through May. That said, Anglers frequent the Chain Lakes in large numbers during the winter to make the most of the lake’s ice fishing opportunities. The reservoir was named for the three chain lakes that nearly filled the area. The park lies within Canada’s last large expanse of mostly undisturbed montane landscape between the Rocky Mountains and Porcupine Hills. There are a wide variety of birds in the montane landscape, as well as scenic views of the Livingsone Mountain Range. Angler’s Atlas members coffie and techcd have posted several map markers on the Chain Lakes map page. They note that the north end can be weedy, and that there’s great fishing at the south end. As well, reports and photos all suggest that there is a great deal of good shore access, which means that you don’t need to have a boat to enjoy fabulous fishing. Check out the information at anglersatlas.com. Regulations are different for Chain Lakes North and Chain Lakes South, so be sure to check before heading out. LAKE ACCESS The reservoir is about a 90-minute drive from Calgary along Hwy. 22, otherwise known as the historic Cowboy Trail. Drive approximately 75 km south of the city, and Hwy. 22 runs along the eastern boundary of Chain Lakes Provincial Park at the south end of the lake. There are 124 campsites with picnic tables, firepits, and a day-use area. Only communal firepits are provided due to the dry conditions of the area. The campsite accommodates 15-20 RVs. Some campsites have power available. The boat launch is located just west of Loop A, although boats are restricted to 12 km/h. Waterskiing, tubing and wakeboarding are prohibited in the Chain Lakes. Campsites for single units and groups can be reserved in advance. Visit the Alberta Parks website at www.albertaparks.ca for more information or for maps.

The Master Angler goes fishing

Andy The Master Angler has been fishing chain lakes since his youth... have always caught fish here on this lake and every where as well... great scenery and camping , fishing and boating as well as good recreation area... lots of fun place to visit...

Took a Brazilian Ice Fishing......

I took a person from Brazil fishing at Chain Lakes, Calgary AB for the first time. He had never seen snow before yet alone ice fishing!

Fishing wife and daughter

Wife fishing at chain lakes as my 6 year old daughter plays in the flower patch