Arctic grayling can and should be part of most far-North Canadian fishing trips. Anglers often bypass fishing for them, however, because grayling tend to run small—a pound or so, sometimes larger. However, they are powerful for their size, and fight like mad in swift-current environments. They are also among the most beautiful of all freshwater fish species, sporting iridescent purplish bodies and huge dorsal fins that sway in the current.

Grayling also live in majestic, wild, remote places. It’s well worth a couple of hours and a short walk to experience them in their natural habitat.

To tackle up for grayling, bring:

A light-action spinning rod/reel setup spooled with 6-pound-test line, and/or a 4- to 6-wt fly rod with a floating line.

Tiny #0 and #1 straight shaft spinners, with small snap swivels to eliminate line twist.

Small bluegill/crappie jigs

Small bobbers, like A-Just-A Bubbles, to suspend jigs in current

Tiny dry and wet flies: caddis, scuds, etc. Size 10 should do it.

Extra fly leaders.

Small hemostat for bending down barbs and removing hooks from deeply hooked fish.

Nail clipper.

This limited assortment will easily fit in a small box in your jacket pocket. However, since you may likely beach your boat and walk in alongside a stream to fish for grayling below a waterfall or rapids, rubber boots are encouraged, and a fanny pack is a welcome option. A pack allows you to easily bring along:

Sunscreen

First Aid Kit

Insect repellant

Small camera

Snacks

Bottle of water/can of soda

Waterproof matches or a lighter, compass—just in case

Bring a rainsuit if needed

And a headnet—just in case deer flies are on the bite!

A small fanny pack easily stores below a boat seat or in a compartment when not in use.