Island Lake provides habitat for some of Alberta’s largest bird species, and where there are waterfowl, there are fish. While northern pike are considered the main sport fish species in the lake, anglers can sometimes catch walleye, even when casting from the dock. Ice fishing for perch during the winter is also popular. Densely rooted vegetation in regions around the lake provides healthy spawning and feeding habitat, enabling many fish species to live in the lake. Lake whitefish are exceptionally large in Island Lake, but they can be fussy. This is a good time to experiment with your lures or flies. One of the islands is home to a colony of great blue herons. On another island, the trees suport immense eagle nests. Island Lake Days are celebrated each July and includes kids’ games, BBQ, golf tournament, boat parade and more. LAKE ACCESS The lake is located in the County of Athabasca, about 20 km northwest of the town of Athabasca. The lake’s west side is accessible from Hwy. 2, which passes north through Athabasca from Edmonton then along Island Lake enroute to the town of Slave Lake. There are several public access points on the west shores at the Summer Villages. On the east shore, there are two boat launches, one at the day-use area, the other at the campground. Island Lake Campground offers a day-use area, boat launch, dock, pier, firewood and a fish-cleaning station. There are 11 unserviced campsites with well water. There is no public access by vehicle to the south shore.

Well, it’s a new year and ice fishing in Alberta is in full swing. There are a lot of lakes close to Edmonton that are very productive in the wintertime. Here are just a few! https://www.anglersatlas.com/blog/top-5-ice-fishing-spots-in-the-edmonton-area