Tathlina Lake
Lake Large Northwest Territories lake with diverse fish populations
Large lake in Canada’s Northwest Territories often accessed by floatplane for fly‑in fishing, canoeing and remote wildlife viewing in boreal and tundra landscapes.
How to Get to Tathlina Lake #
Access is primarily by air. Floatplanes and small aircraft from regional hubs (Yellowknife, Hay River) serve lakes and lodges in the Northwest Territories; charter services can land on Tathlina’s open water in summer or nearby airstrips in winter. Overland approaches require long gravel roads and local guidance.
Tips for Visiting Tathlina Lake #
- Arrange floatplane or charter boat transport in advance - many outfitters in Yellowknife or Hay River can organize transfers and fishing packages.
- Carry bear spray and know local protocols; parts of the Northwest Territories are active grizzly country.
- If fishing, check licensing rules: territorial fishing permits are required and seasonal restrictions may apply.
Best Time to Visit Tathlina Lake #
Summer (June-August) provides the easiest access and longest days for exploring and fishing.
Weather & Climate near Tathlina Lake #
Tathlina Lake's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -28°C to 23°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -17°C and lows of -28°C. Light rainfall.
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February
February is freezing with highs of -13°C and lows of -25°C. The driest month with just 17 mm.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -21°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is freezing with highs of 5°C and lows of -8°C. The driest month with just 17 mm.
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May
May is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 0°C. Light rainfall.
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June
June is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm).
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July
July is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with 49 mm of rain.
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August
August is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (42 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (33 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -4°C. Light rainfall.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -16°C. Light rainfall.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -15°C and lows of -25°C. Light rainfall.