Marian Lake near Behchokǫ̀: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Marian Lake is set in North Slave Region, Northwest Territories. What surrounds it is dry open country. Behchokǫ̀ lies 24 km from the water. It is 1063 km to Edmonton, the nearest city. Nearby alternatives: James Lake after 9.3 km, Russell Lake about 24 km, Slemon Lake after 26 km, Tayonton Lake about 29 km and Strutt Lake after 37 km. The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Marian Lake

  The records we hold are silent on depth, so plan to find it yourself. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. The productive water is a rod length or two out, not a hundred. County-wide records name Arctic grayling, lake trout and slimy sculpin. Those are county-wide records, so not every one of them will be in this water. The shape of Marian Lake decides where the fish sit.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 16°C, the coldest about -27°C. The season is measured in weeks rather than months. The freeze runs deep into the year, with break-up near late May. From about late May to around late October, expect open water on the long-run figures. Fish feed hardest at the start and the close of the open season. It sets the rhythm of the year at Marian Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. Nothing is mapped in the way of a ramp or car park within a short radius. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Where a permit is needed, the nearest town usually sells it. Fishing rules and camping rules are set separately here. James Lake sits 9.3 km off and takes the overflow. For Marian Lake in particular, ask before you travel.