Lake Diefenbaker Guided Ice Fishing
In a secluded spot on Lake Diefenbaker, Ryan Marsh lowered an underwater ice fishing camera down a pre-drilled 8-inch hole inside a custom-built ice shack. “It’s fun to see a Walleye or a Pike come through on the tv,” said Marsh, as he switched a couple of switches to connect a flat screen tv to the underwater camera.
Ice fishing on Lake Diefenbaker in Saskatchewan is an experience like no other. This massive body of water, located in the heart of the province, is home to more than 60 different species of fish and a prime destination for winter anglers across the country and beyond. Whether you’re new to ice fishing or a seasoned pro, you are sure to have a memorable time on the lake.
For those who want to elevate their ice fishing experience, you can plan a guided ice fishing trip with Marshland Fishing that includes a fresh shore lunch and access to Marsh’s ice shack. You can fish in or outside the shack. And if you’re wanting another level of adventure, you can even rent the ice shack overnight, giving you more memories and maximizing your fishing time. The ice shack feels luxurious with a cedar plank ceiling, a wood-burning stove, and electricity generated by solar panels.
“Leave your jig about two inches from the bottom,” said Todd Dyck, the on-site Marshland Fishing guide as he guided me through the best way to attract a Walleye with a fresh minnow on the hook. The fresh minnow appeared on the tv. I could see the end of my line about 26 feet down the hole as I jigged—watching the minnow flow in the water. After a while, a Walleye appeared on the screen. The excitement of reeling in my first fish did not disappoint.
Later that day, Marsh cooked a deep-fried fresh catch fish lunch (including the Walleye I caught) over a wood-burning fire paired with fries and baked beans.
“There’s nothing quite like cooking your fresh catch over an open flame connecting you to nature in a way that few things can,” said Marsh. “It’s even better when shared with good folks.”
As the sun set, the ice shack became home for the night. My husband and I transformed the shack’s benches into beds and set up our sleep systems for the night. The peace and quiet of Lake Diefenbaker felt as if we were miles from civilization.
It’s no wonder why this lake is such a popular destination for anglers from all over the world. Whether you’re looking to catch Walleye, Northern Pike, or any other fish species, there’s something for everyone on Lake Diefenbaker. This may be your sign to start exploring one of Canada’s most beautiful and bountiful fishing destinations.
As an award-winning journalist, Suzanne Downing is dedicated to sharing stories that inspire people to get outdoors and appreciate and protect our natural world. Through her writing and photography, her work captures the beauty and excitement of outdoor experiences.