Going boating in the Yukon? The Yukon is unlike any other place in the world. With friendly people and absolute wilderness, the Yukon attracts dedicated adventure lovers.
This is due to its various attributes, from the wild landscapes to the unprecedented views of the Northern Lights. It also offers incredible access to wildlife, culture, and traditions.
Another attribute offered by the territory is the opportunities for boaters and anglers. Here are a few recommendations if you’re going boating in the Yukon.
Yukon River
The Yukon River is the longest river in Yukon and Alaska and the third longest river in North America. It flows northwest from the Coastal Range mountains of northern British Columbia. Flowing through the Yukon Territory and Alaska to the Bering Sea, it is 3185 kilometres in length, with 1149 within Canadian borders.
Anthropologists believe that the river was used as an immigration route for North America’s first inhabitants. The river was used as a principle means of transportation during the Klondike Gold Rush. Paddle-wheel riverboats were visible on the river up until the 1950s.
The Yukon River is one of the most important salmon rivers in the world, and each year, it supports Chinook salmon in its tributary creeks. The Whitehorse Fishway was built beside the dam at Whitehorse. It provides a channel for the salmon to migrate upstream.
Bennett Lake
Bennett Lake lies in the Southern Lake Region, with one portion falling within the British Columbia border. The Lake is popular with visitors who enjoy recreational activities during the summer months.
It provides fishing, boating, sailing, canoeing, swimming, and hiking along the Chilkoot Trail. Note that fishing requires a fishing license in the Yukon Territory.
The lakes of the area created a reliable source of food and trade between early tribes with access to hunting and fishing spots. In the late 19th century, the Cholkoot Trail was created and used as a backpacking and canoe route. Miners and prospectors largely used it during the Gold Rush.
Today, Bennett Lake is one of the sightseeing destinations on one of the well-known White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. The railway route connects Skagway, Alaska, with Carcross and Whitehorse, Yukon.
Mayo Lake
The mining town of Mayo, named after Captain Alfred S Mayo, a founding member of the Yukon Order of Pioneers, is home to a population of around 450 and is located along the Silver Trail highway.
Mayo Lake is a popular recreation area that offers good swimming and boating in nearby lakes and hiking in the surrounding wilderness. It is the main service area for all travelers venturing up the Silver Trail.
Lake Laberge
Lake Laberge is a widening of the Yukon River north of Whitehorse and is 50 kilometres long and between two and five kilometres in width. The lake is named after Michel Laberge (1836-1909), a French-Canadian who explored the Yukon in 1866. Prospectors used the lake during the Gold Rush.
The lake is often harsh with varying weather conditions and historically was known for holding into ice. In the early 20th century, steamers would allow water to surge from the dam to crack the lake’s surface, or they would expel crankcase oil on the icy surface and allow it to heat in the sun.
Notable Fishing Spots in the Yukon
Are you looking for the best place to go fishing and boating in the Yukon? Here are some of our favorite spots to cast a line.
- Braeburn Lake: From June to September, you can find arctic grayling, lake trout, northern pike, and whitefish. Enjoy the myriad islands where you can keep an eye out for pike and lakers.
- East Aishihik River: From May to June, you can find arctic grayling and rainbow trout
- Hidden Lakes: From May to September, you can find kokanee and rainbow trout
- Rancheria River: From July to October, you can find arctic grayling and bull trout as you drift through the canyons
- Takhini River: From June to September, you can find arctic grayling and lake trout. This river offers amazing views and is excellent for beginnings.
Pick your spot, grab your gear, and reel in some fish in the Yukon!
Go Fishing and Boating in the Yukon Safely (and Have Fun)
As you plan your trip to go fishing or boating in the Yukon (or both), make sure you know how to stay safe while on the water. Safe boating leads to more water adventures!
BOATsmart! can help. Our online boating course for Canadians covers everything you need to know to stay safe while in a boat or operating watercraft. Plus, it’s a fun and engaging way to learn!
First published in 2018. Content most recently reviewed and updated for relevancy and accuracy October 14, 2024.
