Lake Winnipeg, one of the largest freshwater lakes in North America, stretches over 400 kilometers in length and offers some of the most exciting fishing opportunities in Canada. The section of the Red River running from Selkirk to Lockport, often referred to as the "Miracle Mile," has gained legendary status among anglers for its abundance of greenback walleye (locally called "pickerel"), some of which can reach trophy sizes.

From the shores of Selkirk, a small but vibrant city located 35 kilometers north of Winnipeg, to the scenic Lockport, this region is a hotspot for both amateur and professional anglers. Whether you’re casting from a boat or from the shore, the Miracle Mile provides a fishing experience that draws enthusiasts from across North America.

The Miracle Mile: A Fisherman’s Dream

The section of the Red River between Selkirk and Lockport is famous for the annual migration of greenback walleye, especially during the fall when the fish travel from the depths of Lake Winnipeg upstream to spawn. What makes this stretch of river so unique is the concentration of these fish, which can number in the thousands, making it an ideal spot for anglers seeking both quantity and quality.

The greenback walleye, named for its distinctive emerald sheen, is a prized catch. These fish not only grow to impressive sizes—sometimes weighing upwards of 10 pounds or more—but are also known for their delicious, flaky white flesh. The cool, nutrient-rich waters of Lake Winnipeg and the Red River provide an optimal environment for walleye to thrive, making this area one of the best spots in North America to catch them.

The "Miracle Mile" refers to the stretch of river between Selkirk and Lockport, with the town of Selkirk serving as the primary launch point for many fishing expeditions. Anglers often focus on the deeper holes and ledges within this stretch, where walleye tend to congregate. In the fall, as the fish prepare to spawn, they become more active, and catching them becomes an exhilarating challenge.

Fishing Techniques and Tips

Fishing for greenback walleye in the Miracle Mile requires a combination of skill, patience, and the right equipment. Many seasoned anglers recommend using jigs tipped with live minnows, as this bait closely mimics the walleye's natural prey. Jigging is one of the most effective techniques, especially when the fish are in deeper waters. Brightly colored jigs, often in chartreuse or neon green, are particularly successful in attracting the attention of walleye, as these colors stand out in the murky river waters.

Another popular technique is trolling with crankbaits, which can be highly effective during the fall months when walleye are more active. Trolling allows anglers to cover more water and target schools of fish that may be moving through the river.

For those fishing from the shore, casting with soft plastics or using bottom bouncers can yield great results. The Red River has a fairly strong current, so it's important to adjust your gear accordingly. Heavier weights are often needed to keep the bait in place, particularly when fishing from the shoreline near Lockport.

While walleye are the primary target in this area, the Miracle Mile also offers opportunities to catch northern pike, sauger, and catfish. Many anglers will come prepared with a variety of lures and bait to take advantage of the diverse fishing available.

Selkirk: The Gateway to the Red River

Selkirk is not only a launching point for fishing expeditions along the Miracle Mile, but also a thriving community that has embraced its reputation as a fishing destination. The city has a long history with the fishing industry, dating back to its early days as a hub for commercial fishing on Lake Winnipeg.

For visiting anglers, Selkirk provides everything you need for a successful fishing trip. The Selkirk Park Boat Launch is one of the most popular access points to the Red River, offering easy boat access to the Miracle Mile. In addition, the Selkirk waterfront is a great spot for shore fishing, especially for those who may not have a boat.

Local bait shops, such as Pro-Am Tackle and Selkirk Angling Outfitters, are well-stocked with live bait, lures, and other fishing essentials. Many local guides also offer charter services, providing valuable expertise to anglers who are unfamiliar with the area. These guides know the river intimately and can often lead you to the best fishing spots along the Red River and Lake Winnipeg.

In addition to its fishing offerings, Selkirk is known for its beautiful riverfront parks, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re coming to fish or simply to enjoy the outdoors, Selkirk provides the perfect base for your adventure on the Red River.

Lockport: A Scenic Fishing Destination

At the other end of the Miracle Mile is Lockport, another favorite destination for anglers. Located where the Red River narrows and the St. Andrews Lock and Dam create a natural barrier, Lockport is known for its consistently excellent fishing. The area below the dam, in particular, is one of the best spots to catch greenback walleye, as the fish congregate here before continuing their journey upstream.

The Lockport Fishing Bridge is a popular spot for shore fishing, offering an excellent vantage point for anglers looking to cast into the deeper waters near the dam. The current here is strong, and walleye tend to gather in the eddies and pockets of calm water created by the dam’s structure.

In addition to its walleye fishing, Lockport is also known for its abundance of channel catfish. These large, hard-fighting fish are a favorite among local anglers, and catching a trophy-sized catfish can be a thrilling experience.

Like Selkirk, Lockport has a range of amenities for visiting anglers, including boat launches, tackle shops, and nearby restaurants. After a long day of fishing, many anglers enjoy stopping by Skinners or Half Moon Drive-In for a bite to eat, both of which are iconic roadside diners in the Lockport area.

The Greenback Gold Rush

The annual fall walleye run along the Red River is often referred to as the “Greenback Gold Rush” due to the sheer number of fish and the quality of the catch. Anglers flock to the Miracle Mile each year, hoping to land one of these prized greenback walleye, and the excitement of the chase creates a lively and competitive atmosphere.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, the Selkirk-to-Lockport stretch of the Red River offers an unparalleled fishing experience. With the right conditions and a little luck, you could be on your way to landing a trophy greenback walleye that will become the highlight of your fishing career.

Conclusion

Fishing from Selkirk to Lockport along the Miracle Mile is one of the best fishing experiences in Manitoba, and perhaps all of Canada. The abundance of greenback walleye, the accessibility of the Red River, and the community’s deep connection to fishing make this area a must-visit destination for anglers. Whether you're casting a line from the shore or venturing out on a boat, the Red River promises not just a good catch, but a memorable adventure.

Located just 20 minutes north of Winnipeg, Selkirk is rapidly gaining appeal as an ideal destination for home buyers seeking affordable housing, quality schools, and a balanced lifestyle. Offering the charm of rural living with the convenience of an easy commute to the city, Selkirk and its neighbouring areas, including St. Andrews and St. Clements, provide a compelling option for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

In recent years, Selkirk’s housing market has experienced significant growth, with new developments catering to a variety of preferences. From spacious family homes to modern townhouses and condos, the area offers larger lot sizes and more green space than typically found in Winnipeg’s urban environment.

Selkirk's real estate is particularly attractive due to its affordability. New developments, such as Creekside Estates and Easton Place, are offering well-designed homes at competitive prices, making the area a hot spot for first-time buyers, growing families, and down sizers alike.

Not to be left out Daerwood village continues to be a premier option for home buyers even after 30 years of offering a south Selkirk location off Eveline St. and private mature yards for growing families and retirees alike.

Along with the south location & Evleine st., “Dorchester Heights” aka “Little lake” was (arguably is) the premiere Selkirk neighbourhood that started in the late 50's early 60's and continues to be a hard to find and sought after neighbourhood, sought after for its location to Selkirk golfing, shopping, schools and private forest like settings, that no other part of Selkirk offers as this well matured part of town does!

Nearby areas, such as St. Andrews and riverfront properties along the Red River, present lucrative opportunities for developers and investors. These large-acre properties offer scenic views and subdivision potential, drawing increased interest for residential projects. Premium river lots are located all the way from Selkirk to Winnipeg on both sides of the river, offer acreages and farming lots that go back to the original settlements of the area.

For families, Selkirk provides a strong educational infrastructure, making it a top choice for those prioritizing access to high-quality schools. As the largest high school in the region, LSRCSS offers a comprehensive academic and vocational curriculum, preparing students for both university and trades. Known for its strong extracurricular programs, the school fosters a supportive and engaged student community. Happy thought, St. Andrews, Lock port, Maple ton, centennial, Robert Smith and Ruth Hooker all off great learning experience for our kids, just to name a few in the area!

Post-secondary institutions like the University of Manitoba, the University of Winnipeg, and Red River College are within easy reach, providing convenient access for students commuting from Selkirk. Additionally, adult learning programs are available for those pursuing skills development or finishing high school education.

Selkirk’s proximity to natural attractions makes it an ideal location for those who appreciate outdoor living. Situated on the banks of the Red River and close to Lake Winnipeg, the area offers numerous opportunities for activities like boating, fishing, and kayaking.  Access to thousands of kilometers across the province for snowmobiling, starts in the Interlake and goes to Ontario and Minneapolis, truly the heart of the continent!

This community hub features swimming pools, baseball diamonds, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making it perfect for family outings. In winter, nearby Birds Hill Provincial Park offers cross-country skiing, skating, and snowshoeing.  With in an hour to major beaches like, Grand, Winnipeg & Gimli as summer destinations, it all starts here!

Selkirk’s status as a bedroom community to Winnipeg is growing, attracting residents looking for a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle without sacrificing access to city amenities. The direct route to Winnipeg via Highway 9 ensures a convenient commute, making Selkirk an ideal home base for professionals who work in the city but prefer to live in a more peaceful, nature-filled environment.

Unlike the hustle of Winnipeg, Selkirk offers larger homes, spacious yards, and quieter streets, making it a refuge for those seeking a slower pace of life without compromising on comfort.

With continuous growth and development, Selkirk is quickly becoming a key destination for those looking to escape the urban grind for a better lifestyle. The combination of affordable housing, top-notch schools, and outdoor activities ensures the area will remain highly desirable in the years to come.

Selkirk also boasts a functional and accessible transit system, making it easy for residents to get around town for shopping, work, and recreational activities.

The town operates its own public bus service with fixed routes connecting residential neighborhoods to key destinations like shopping centers, medical facilities, and schools. Offering affordable fares and accessible buses, Selkirk Transit provides a reliable option for residents without personal vehicles.

For those seeking more flexible transportation options, local taxi services are available. Additionally, Selkirk’s compact size makes cycling and walking popular choices, with sidewalks and bike paths connecting key parts of town.

For those commuting to Winnipeg, Highway 9 provides a direct route. While there’s no dedicated commuter bus, residents often carpool or use personal vehicles, making the journey to Winnipeg straightforward.

Conclusion

Selkirk, Manitoba, offers a unique blend of affordability, quality of life, and convenience. With expanding housing options, excellent educational facilities, and abundant outdoor activities, Selkirk is positioned as an attractive community for families, professionals, and retirees. The town’s steady growth and real estate development ensure it will continue to be a sought-after location for those seeking a better lifestyle within easy reach of Winnipeg.

WRITTEN BY: Daniel Kreutzer B. Admin For Evan Kreutzer.ca Realtors & Broker since 1977!

Get Moving!

PHOTO BY. C. Cassidy