Goldeye
Hiodon alosoides
A silvery, deep-bodied fish of Alberta's prairie and boreal rivers, the goldeye is instantly known by its large, brilliant gold-rimmed eye adapted to hunting in turbid water. A hard-hitting sport fish that rises to flies and lures, it has long been prized smoked as the famous 'Winnipeg goldeye.'
Slow, silty prairie rivers, reservoirs, and connected lakes; feeds near the surface at dusk on insects and small fish.
How to Catch Goldeye
Whether you're new to targeting Goldeye or refining your approach, success starts with matching your tactics to where the fish lives. Goldeye (Hiodon alosoides) is typically found in river water and lake water, so concentrate your effort where those conditions line up. Mature Goldeye average around 13 inches, which helps you choose the right line, lure size, and tackle for the fight.
Where to Find Goldeye in the USA & Canada
Goldeye is recorded across a range of North American waters, including spots in Alberta, Manitoba, Northwest Territories, and Saskatchewan. Browse the linked water guides below to see the specific lakes, rivers, and coastal waters where anglers report catching Goldeye, then plan a trip around the water closest to you.
Goldeye Fishing Regulations & Limits
Fishing rules for Goldeye vary by state and province. Before you head out, check the daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons that apply in your area. When FishFinder has matching records, the regulations link below takes you to the rules hub. Following local limits keeps Goldeye populations healthy for future seasons.
Related Water Guides for Goldeye
Explore these FishFinder water guides for places where Goldeye is recorded:
- Lake Winnipeg — Goldeye fishing water
- Milk River — Goldeye fishing water
- North Saskatchewan River — Goldeye fishing water
- Red Deer River — Goldeye fishing water
- Peace River (Alberta) — Goldeye fishing water
- Slave River — Goldeye fishing water
- South Saskatchewan River — Goldeye fishing water
- Qu'Appelle River — Goldeye fishing water
- Codette Lake — Goldeye fishing water
- Red River — Goldeye fishing water
- Assiniboine River — Goldeye fishing water
- Mackenzie River — Goldeye fishing water
Goldeye Regulations
Review current FishFinder regulation records before targeting Goldeye:
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water is best for catching Goldeye?
Goldeye (Hiodon alosoides) is typically found in river water and lake water. Focus your effort where those conditions line up to improve your chances.
How big does Goldeye get?
Mature Goldeye average around 13 inches, though individual fish can run larger. Matching your line, lure size, and tackle to that range makes for a better fight and landing rate.
Where can I catch Goldeye in the USA and Canada?
Goldeye is reported across North American waters, including spots in Alberta, Manitoba, Northwest Territories, and Saskatchewan. Check the locations listed on this page to find the lakes, rivers, and coastal waters closest to you.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Goldeye?
A valid fishing license is required in most US states and Canadian provinces. Daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons for Goldeye vary by region, so review the regulations on this page and with your local wildlife authority before heading out.