Pigeon Lake is one of my go-to fishing destinations when I am looking for a quality fishery that is only a short drive from home. Being so close to the capital, it is one of the most intensively used recreational lakes in Alberta. Don’t let that deter you though, the lake is quite large and there are many areas that hold quality fish and are easy to reach on a kayak.
Pigeon Lake has always been a popular fishing and recreation destination. So plan on it being quite busy on the weekends. It has a rich history and is home too many summer and permanent villages around the lake. Thanks to changing fisheries management practices, the fishery is now quite lively and it’s a great place to enjoy a day of fishing with the family and teach young kids to catch fish.
Kayak Launch Points
The best thing about being a kayak angler is the ability to launch your boat from anywhere. The following locations are not necessarily boat launches, but waterfront public access that you are able to launch from.
Pigeon Lake Provincial Park
The provincial park boat launch is easily the busiest launch site on Pigeon Lake. The boat launch is two lane and has a small area to the side that makes launching a kayak a breeze. There is also a large dock that makes getting in and out of your kayak a breeze.
Roughly half a kilometre from the boat launch, almost due east, is a sharp drop off to deep water that typically holds a ton of walleye. The spot on the spot is easily identifiable as there will likely be a number of boats anchored and jigging for walleye.
Gilbert Ave Launch
On the northwest corner, just off of highway 771 is a small launch and day use area that is very productive in the spring. It is a quick kayak trip to the mouth of the only river inlet into Pigeon Lake. Be sure to check the local fishing regulations as this area was recently opened for fishing in 2019.
Golden Days Beach
Golden days is a very small beach area that is adjacent to some spectacular fishing structure. Just south of the sandy point runs a ledge that can be very productive when other areas are slow. Be warned, there is usually little to no parking at this beach.
Mulhurst Bay Launch
Mulhurst Bay has a large boat launch and day use area and is the closest launch to the city. The bay itself is shaped like a giant bowl without much discernible structure. It is best fished by trolling crank baits or spinner rigs.
Ma-Me-O Beach
When the wind is blowing from the east, Mameo beach is a great spot to launch your kayak. The beach does not have a dedicated boat launch but kayak anglers can launch from the sandy shores. Not far from the beach is a rock island that is usually home to many species of birds, the most prominent being the Pelican.
Grandview Launch
There is a small playground area and parking large enough for a few vehicles. This area is similar in structure to the provincial park but, due to limited parking, is not as busy. If the weather cooperates, it can make for a fun day of fishing with a jig and plenty of minnows.
Chris Fonos
Aquabatics Ambassador
Old Town Kayaks Ambassador
www.stringtheoryangling.ca
