Great Slave Lake Tours

Owned and operated by Shawn Buckley, a third-generation fisherman with nearly 40 years of experience on the water, Great Slave Lake Tours offers an authentic and eco-conscious immersion into one of the world’s largest lakes. Based out of Hay River, this family-run business introduces visitors to the realities of a sustainable commercial fishery, local history, indigenous wild plants, and the raw beauty of the northern wilderness.

The tour options adapt perfectly to the changing seasons. In the summer, boat excursions give guests the chance to try their hand at sport fishing (targeting northern pike, lake trout, pickerel, and whitefish) or enjoy scenic harbor cruises capped off with a fresh, homemade fish fry. In the winter, the adventure shifts onto the frozen lake. Guests travel in style inside a classic 8-passenger Bombardier snowmobile, heading miles out onto the dark ice—far from city lights—to photograph spectacular northern lights displays or watch live winter commercial fishing demonstrations.

Activities and Tour Packages:
Summer Fishing & Sightseeing: Operating from mid-June to mid-October, featuring half-day to full-day trips (ranging from 2 to 7 hours). Excellent for photography, naturalist viewing, bird watching (including eagles and pelicans), and hosting large group fish lunches.

Winter & Aurora Excursions: Operating from mid-December through mid-April. This features 4-hour night tours by Bombardier snowmobile, winter commercial fishing demonstrations, and viewing of dramatic lake ice heaves.

Cultural & Educational Programs: Specialized hands-on sessions covering the lake’s ecosystem, commercial harvesting, net-setting techniques, fish fileting, and gathering scientific data. Programs include traditional camp chores and fresh fish fries complete with bannock and tea, tailored for both school groups and adults.

Logistics & Accommodations: Shuttle services are available for canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts traveling to and from the East Arm of Great Slave Lake. For multi-day winter adventures, overnight stays can be arranged on the lake in 12′ x 16′ heated tent camps or cozy cabins (with bedding, towels, meals, and fishing gear provided).

Bookings: Advanced reservations are required for customized packages, large group tours, and fish dinner arrangements.