The Canadian Rockies are an angler’s delight. Fish are abundant
in many lakes and rivers (the exceptions to good fishing are the
lakes and rivers fed by glacial runoff, such as Lake Louise),
and outfitters provide guiding services throughout the
mountains. Many lakes are stocked annually with a variety of
trout—most often rainbows—and although stocking was discontinued
in the national parks in 1988, populations have been maintained.
In Banff National Park, Lake Minnewanka is home to the
mountains’ largest fish—lake trout—as well a variety of other
trout and whitefish. This lake, along with Maligne Lake in
Jasper National Park, are major fishing centers, with boats and
tackle for rent and guides offering their services. Rainbow
trout are the fighting fish of the Canadian Rockies; they are to
western Canadawhat bass are to the United States. Although not
native, through stocking they are found in lakes and streams
throughout the mountains. The Bow River is considered one of the
world’s great trout rivers, but m