Angling is another sport enjoyed across the entire country. The famed salmon fisheries along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts face highly restricted catch limits in most areas, and outright bans on fishing in others. However, not all salmon species on all rivers are threatened, and rules governing fishing change quickly; so check locally with fishing outfitters to find out if a season will open while you're visiting. Other species aren't so heavily restricted and probably make a better focus for a fishing-oriented vacation. Trout are found throughout Canada, some reaching great size in the thousands of lakes in the north country; northern pike and walleye are also wary fish that grow to massive size in the North. The Arctic char, a cousin of the salmon, is an anadromous fish running in the mighty rivers that feed into the Arctic Ocean; char fishing is often combined with other backcountry adventures by Arctic outfitters.

Fishing in Canada is regulated either by local government or by tribes, and appropriate licenses are necessary. Angling for some fish is regulated by season; in some areas, catch-and-release fishing is enforced. Be sure to check with local authorities before casting your line.

Perhaps Canada's most famous fishing hole is Great Slave Lake. This deep and massive lake is home to enormous lake trout and northern pike; the latter can reach lengths over 2m (6 ft.). You'll want to plan a trip with an outfitter, because weather conditions change rapidly and maneuvering small craft can be dangerous.