Lake Diefenbaker is a 225 km reservoir that holds Saskatchewan's record walleye, plus trophy pike, perch, and even rainbow trout.
Lake Diefenbaker is a premier fishing destination in Saskatchewan. Here's what you need to know: what to catch, when to go, and how to maximize your time on the water.
Walleye opens the second Saturday in May; best in June and September. Pike throughout the open-water season. Perch through the ice.
Walleye on jigs in spring, then bottom-bouncers with spinners in summer. The trout fishery is unique for the prairies — fish the cool, deep sections near the dam. Sturgeon are catch-and-release only.
The provincial walleye record (18.06 lb) came from Diefenbaker. It's the prairie's most diverse fishery.
Lake Diefenbaker falls under Saskatchewan fishing regulations. Limits, seasons, and special rules may vary by zone — some waters have reduced limits, slot limits, or catch-and-release-only designations. Always confirm the exact rules for the zone you're fishing before you keep a fish.
👉 See the full Saskatchewan fishing regulations guide — or carry every zone's rules offline in the TrueNorthAngler app.
Yes — anyone 18–64 needs a Saskatchewan recreational fishing licence. See our full guide: Canadian fishing licences explained. The TrueNorthAngler app stores your licence digitally so you'll never be caught without it.
Regulations, forecasts, and maps for Lake Diefenbaker — offline and in your pocket. Free for the 2026 season.