Overnight ice-fishing expected to reel ‘em in
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It’s not luxury accommodation on a tropical island, but it’s got a certain group of people hooked.
Anglers interested in ice fishing on Lake Winnipeg have been given the option to stay out overnight. The Manitoba government has announced it will issue permits to outfitters to allow them to sell overnight accommodation.
“It’s going to help our business out so much,” said Carly Butland, co-owner of Kannuk Outfitters, one of three companies issued permits for such stays during this season.
Jade Friesen photo
An ice castle trailer for rent by Kannuk Outfitters, one of three companies issued permits to allow them to sell overnight stays during the ice-fishing season.
In past seasons, Kannuk Outfitters rented out its ice castle trailers to guests for the day. Butland said many guests were keen to stay in them overnight.
“We’ve had lots of interest. It’s exciting we can finally provide this service people have been asking for,” Butland said.
Butland said an overnight stay offers anglers a more immersive experience.
“People can be fishing all night, they can keep the hole open, and then they’re already there in the morning for the good bite,” Butland said.
Kris Gaune, owner of outfitter Gaune Fishin, also received a permit.
Gaune said being able to provide overnight accommodation means his guests won’t have to worry about commuting to the ice every morning. In past seasons, Gaune said some of his guests would travel up to an hour each morning from nearby hotels or Airbnbs.
“You can fish 24 hours and you don’t have to worry about travelling back and forth or spending money on a hotel,” Gaune said.
He hopes this new opportunity will reel in more business for fishing guides and outfitters.
“When you hire an outfitter, they’re familiar with the body of water, they know where the fish are,” Gaune said. “Now guests will never be cold. They’ll step out of their vehicle, into one of my vehicles, and into a nice warm shack. There’s no wait time, you’re just fishing right away.”
fpcity@freepress.mb.ca
