Beyond the thrill of the catch, many anglers wonder—how does Inconnu taste? The answer varies, but its firm, white meat is often compared to Striped Bass, European Seabass, and Japanese Seabass. For centuries, Indigenous communities like the Gwich’in, Dene, and Inuvialuit have valued Inconnu not just as a food source for people but also for sled dogs. The fish is traditionally dried, smoked, or incorporated into dishes such as “akutaq”—a Northern delicacy made by blending flaked fish with fat and berries, often likened to ice cream. But one thing everyone can agree on is the undeniable pleasure of a shore lunch after a day on the water. There’s nothing quite like the experience of frying up fresh fillets over an open fire, creating a truly authentic Northern meal that captures the essence of the wild. If you don’t manage to catch an Inconnu yourself, you can still savor its unique flavor at various restaurants throughout the Northwest Territories.
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime fishing experience, chasing the mighty Inconnu in the NWT should be at the top of your list. These powerful fish, found in some of the most pristine waters in the world, promise an unforgettable adventure for any angler ready to take on the challenge.
In late summer, if you stay on the water to cast a line after the sun sets, you might be lucky enough to witness nature’s most dazzling light show, the Aurora Borealis.
Keen to make the catch of a lifetime? From the Arctic Ocean to a Barrenlands brook, your fishing trip in the Northwest Territories will reward you with colossal fish, record-number catches, and an unbelievable story. Read more here to get the “who’s who” of fish species in the Northwest Territories.
