Fishing is a popular activity in the BWCAW. Game species include northern pike, walleye, largemouth and smallmouth bass, yellow perch, whitefish, and lake trout, among others. A small number of lakes are stocked with brook trout as well. Popular lures include rapalas, jigs, and spoons, while live bait such as leeches are also used. Multi-sectioned or collapsible fishing rods are often used for ease in carrying while portaging
Fishing on and around the Gove Peninsula is perhaps the most popular recreational pursuit of locals and travellers alike. There is some of the best tropical reef and sport fishing in the world in the virtually untouched seas surrounding Nhulunbuy. There are numerous well established fishing tour operators than run full day and extended tours from both Nhulunbuy as well as a number of fishing clubs in the region that organise renowned fishing competitions through out the year. Anglers have the chance of hooking up one of more than 30 fish species, including red emperor, coral trout and golden snapper, Spanish mackerel, giant trevally and, in the billabongs, the prized barramundi.
