Crawling Valley Reservoir, lake in Alberta, Canada
Crawling Valley Reservoir is a man-made lake near Bassano in Alberta, created in 1983 as part of an irrigation system that draws water from the Bow River through the North Branch Canal. The reservoir reaches depths of about 50 feet (15 meters) and features natural drop-offs and shallow bays shaped by glacial geology, with steady water levels throughout the year.
The reservoir was constructed in 1983 as part of an irrigation project for southern Alberta's agricultural needs. Over the following decades, it became a popular recreational destination, with healthy fish populations developing that now support fishing for multiple species including northern pike, walleye, and perch.
The lake is easily accessible by paved roads with a large campground on the south side offering boat launches and overnight stays during summer months. Access points are available around the marina and public beaches, while guided fishing trips with heated shelters are offered, and visitors should check Alberta's current fishing regulations before heading out.
The reservoir has become one of Alberta's most reliable ice fishing destinations, with thick ice typically freezing by mid-December and lasting well into winter. Underwater features including submerged islands and varying depth zones attract different fish species that concentrate in specific areas, making location knowledge more valuable than technique for winter anglers.
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