Family Fishing Events in Manitoba
Introduction
Manitoba is one of Canada’s best provinces for fishing, and many communities host fishing events that bring families together during the winter and summer months.
Across the province, ice fishing derbies and family fishing tournaments provide an opportunity for kids and parents to experience fishing in a fun and welcoming environment.
From the Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby to community events like KidFish on the Red River, these fishing tournaments help introduce the next generation of anglers to Manitoba’s outdoor traditions.
Why Fishing Events Are Great for Families
Family fishing events give children an opportunity to experience outdoor activities while learning valuable skills.
Fishing events help kids:
- learn patience
- develop outdoor confidence
- understand conservation
- connect with nature
- spend time with family
For many families, a local ice fishing derby becomes the first step toward a lifelong love of fishing.
Popular Ice Fishing Derbies Near Manitoba
Several well-known fishing derbies take place across Canada each winter. These events attract anglers from many regions and showcase the popularity of ice fishing tournaments.
Some examples include:
- Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby in Manitoba
- KidFish Ice Fishing Derby in Manitoba
- Falcon Lake Ice Fishing Derby
- Gimli Ice Fishing Derby
- Cold Lake Ice Fishing Derby in Alberta
- Wawa Ice Fishing Derby in Ontario
- Chapleau Ice Fishing Derby
- Elliot Lake Ice Fishing Derby
- Montreal Lake Ice Fishing Derby
Many anglers travel between these events to enjoy different lakes, species, and communities.
While some tournaments focus on competitive anglers, others focus on family participation and community fundraising.
KidFish: A Family Ice Fishing Event in Manitoba
One of Manitoba’s most family-friendly fishing events is KidFish, an annual ice fishing derby held on the Red River in Selkirk.
Unlike many competitive tournaments, KidFish focuses on:
- families and kids
- community participation
- fundraising for children’s charities
Since the event began, KidFish has:
- raised more than $485,000 for children’s charities
- welcomed hundreds of families each year
- awarded thousands of dollars in prizes
Fish commonly caught during the derby include:
- sauger
- walleye
- northern pike
- perch
With both prize categories and random draws, every participant has a chance to win.
What Happens at a Family Ice Fishing Event
Most family fishing tournaments include a mix of fishing, prizes, and community activities.
Typical features include:
- fishing competitions
- youth prize categories
- raffles and giveaways
- sponsor booths
- outdoor family activities
Events like KidFish help make fishing accessible even for beginners who may be attending their first ice fishing derby.
Tips for Attending an Ice Fishing Derby
If your family plans to attend a fishing tournament or ice fishing event, preparation is important.
Bring:
- warm winter clothing
- ice fishing rods and tackle
- bait for local fish species
- portable seating or shelter
- snacks and drinks
For families with young children, the most important goal is simply to enjoy the experience and learn about fishing together.
Why Events Like KidFish Matter
Family fishing events do more than entertain participants.
They also:
- support local charities
- build community connections
- introduce kids to outdoor recreation
- keep fishing traditions alive in Manitoba
Events like KidFish help ensure that the next generation of anglers continues to enjoy the province’s lakes and rivers.
Join a Family Fishing Event in Manitoba
If you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity for your family, a fishing tournament or ice fishing derby is a great place to start.
KidFish takes place each winter on the Red River in Selkirk, Manitoba, welcoming families, kids, and anglers of all experience levels.
Whether you’re new to fishing or already love ice fishing, the event offers a fun and memorable experience for everyone.
👉 Donate