Fishing

Fishing permits are required and available through Parks Canada. To protect the ecosystem of the national park, fish stocks are carefully monitored and maintained. Please respect Parks Canada guidelines.

• Fishing in the national park
• Parks Canada Restricted Activity Bulletin
  • Prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species

Popular Fishing Locations

• The upper Bow River, running directly through Banff National Park, is known worldwide among anglers for opportunities to catch brown trout, Rocky Mountain whitefish, and the occasional cutthroat, brook and bull trout.
• Lake Minnewanka, the largest lake in Banff National Park, located just minutes from the Banff townsite, is another well-known destination among lake trout anglers.
• Banff Fishing 101