From tiny minnows to huge sturgeon, southeast Alberta is home to a variety of fish, supported by the many water bodies present in the region. Native fish are a vitally important part of aquatic, as well as riparian ecosystems. They provide several ecological services that improve factors such as water quality and biodiversity. Additionally, fishing is a significant recreational activity.
Unfortunately, changes to stream flow regimes, water contaminants, and invasive species threaten native fish populations. In fact, some are already considered at risk, such as sturgeon in the South Saskatchewan River.
There are still however many thriving species of native and stocked game fish present in the region for responsible anglers to catch.
Learn about aquatic invasive species in Alberta here: https://www.alberta.ca/Aquatic-invasive-species.aspx
Information about fisheries regulations in Alberta can be found at the following sites:
- Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations
- Regional Sportfishing Regulations
- Fishing Licenses and Fees
- AEP Fish Stocking Reports
- Fisheries (Ministerial) Regulation
- Alberta Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Regulations
- Alberta Fish and Wildlife Resources
Help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. If you go fishing, remember:
Clean, drain, dry your gear, and make sure to stop at boat inspection stations!
Common Fish in the SEAWA Watershed
Common naturally occurring and stocked fish include:
- Bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) - Threatened
- Burbot (Lota lota)
- Brook Stickleback (Culaea inconstans)
- Goldeye (Hiodon alosoides)
- Mooneye (Hiodon tergisus)
- Lake Sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) - Threatened
- Lake Whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis)
- Longnose Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae)
- Mountain Sucker (Catostomus platyrhynchus)
- Northern Pike (Esox lucius)
- Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
- Sauger (Sander canadensis)
- Shiners (Notropis spp.)
- Walleye (Sander vitreus)
- White Sucker (Catostomus commersonii)
- Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens)
