Swim, Feel the Breeze, and Play at Delta Beach Together
Why Rent On Lake Manitoba
Lake Manitoba stretches more than 200 kilometres through south-central Manitoba, about 70 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg, a long, shallow remnant of ancient Glacial Lake Agassiz that quietly delivers some of the finest recreational fishing and birdwatching in the province to those who make the drive. The small town of Lundar on the west shore and Steep Rock to the northwest are the primary lakeside communities, each with a warm, unhurried character that reflects the rhythms of this part of Manitoba. Delta Beach, on the lake’s southern shore near Portage la Prairie, hosts one of the finest beach areas on the lake and a popular boat launch with marina access. Lakeside cabins and vacation homes in the Lake Manitoba corridor comfortably sleep four to eight guests with private water access, full kitchens, and fire pits, at price points considerably more accessible than the more celebrated Manitoba lakes to the east.
Delta Marsh, Walleye Fishing, and the Pelicans of Lundar Beach
Delta Marsh, on the lake’s southern shore, is one of North America’s premier waterfowl staging areas, and the birdwatching there during spring and fall migration, with thousands of ducks and geese moving through the wetlands, is a spectacle worth building a trip around. Pickerel, whitefish, and perch fishing are strong throughout the season, and the lake’s relative shallowness means water temperatures warm usably in July. American white pelicans gather near the lake’s shallower bays in striking numbers through summer, one of those genuinely astonishing wildlife encounters that children talk about for weeks afterwards. The lake connects via Crane Narrows northward to Lake Winnipegosis, creating a broader waterway that multi-day canoe adventurers use as a genuine backcountry route through the Manitoba wetlands.
Why a Rental Beats a Hotel Here
Lake Manitoba has no resort hotel sector. The experience here is organized around seasonal cabins, fishing camps, and vacation homes that put you on or near the water in the way that defines the Manitoba cottage tradition. Families who choose Lake Manitoba over the more popular Lake Winnipeg corridor typically find better availability, better fishing, and a more genuinely quiet version of the prairie lake experience.
What To Know Before Travelling
Lake Manitoba’s shallow, wind-exposed character means it can be rough on windy afternoons, and the water clarity is not as exceptional as the granite Shield lakes to the east. Both of these are small trade-offs for a destination that offers very good fishing, remarkable birdwatching, and the satisfying feeling of having found a lake that most people have not thought to look for.
- Surface area (km)
- 4624
- Max depth (m)
- 7
- Elevation (m)
- 247
- Shoreline length (km)
- 200
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Hiking
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Manitoba has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, it is not always safe to swim in Lake Manitoba. The lake can have cyanobacteria blooms, which can produce toxins harmful if ingested, and advisories are often issued to avoid swimming when these blooms are present.
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Lake Manitoba is a popular destination because of its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. It offers activities like boating, fishing, and swimming, and its surroundings provide ample opportunities for nature walks and wildlife observation. However, specific details about Lake Manitoba itself are limited, but its natural attractions draw visitors.
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For Lake Manitoba, the possession limits and size restrictions are as follows: Walleye and Sauger have a limit of 4, with none exceeding 55 cm. Northern Pike have a limit of 4, with none exceeding 75 cm. Lake Trout have a limit of 1, with none exceeding 65 cm. These regulations apply generally across Manitoba waters, including Lake Manitoba.
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The best beach at Lake Manitoba for families is Surfside Beach. It has fine grain sand and is located in a unique spot between the lake and marshy terrain, making it a favourite family spot. It offers a family-friendly environment with shallow and clear water.
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Towns near Lake Manitoba include Ste. Rose du Lac, Eriksdale, and Lundar. These towns are located in the vicinity of the lake, which is about 75 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg. They are part of the rural communities surrounding Lake Manitoba.