Whitehorse, Yukon

What's biting

• Lake Trout (Mackinaw)

  Where: Yukon River main channel and deeper pools; Marsh Lake and Laberge Lake (south of Whitehorse); cold, clear lakes with depth >10 m (33 ft)

  Early fall is prime time as water cools. Use small jigging spoons (1/4–1/2 oz / 7–14 g) in silver or white, or live shiners if available. Fish 15–30 m (50–100 ft) depths near drop-offs; early morning and late evening are most productive.

  Caution: Catch-and-release only for some populations; check current regulations for your specific water.

• Arctic Grayling

  Where: Yukon River tributaries and clear, flowing sections; Teslin River system; prefer cool, oxygenated water with moderate current

  Grayling are active in September as water temperature drops. Use small dry flies (size 14–16) or nymphs; cast upstream and let drift. Light 4–5 wt fly rod is ideal; they strike readily but tire quickly.

  Caution: Grayling are fragile; handle minimally and wet hands before contact. Barbless hooks reduce injury.

• Northern Pike

  Where: Shallow bays and weed edges of Marsh Lake and Laberge; slower backwater sections of Yukon River

  Pike hunt aggressively in fall. Use medium spinnerbaits (3/8–1/2 oz / 11–14 g) or 10–13 cm (4–5 in) soft plastics in bright colors. Fish structure edges at dawn and dusk; retrieve with pauses.

  Caution: Pike have sharp teeth; use a wire leader or heavy monofilament (20+ lb / 9+ kg test).

• Burbot (Ling)

  Where: Deep, cold lakes (Marsh Lake, Laberge); Yukon River pools >15 m (50 ft) deep

  Burbot are nocturnal bottom feeders that become active as water cools in fall. Fish after dark with jigging spoons or live bait near the bottom; they prefer the coldest water available.

  Caution: Burbot are often discarded but are excellent eating; check regulations for any restrictions.

• Dolly Varden (Arctic Char)

  Where: Clear, cold streams and rivers; Teslin River; Yukon River tributaries with gravel substrate

  Char move into spawning streams in September. Use small spinners or flies (size 10–12); fish pools and runs with moderate current. Early morning is best; water is still cool enough for active feeding.

  Caution: Some populations are conservation-sensitive; verify regulations before targeting.