Welcome to the community of Whatì. Set on a magnificent and productive Lac La Martre (Lake), Whatì features great fishing and very attractive crafts.

Whatì is formally known as Lac La Martre. The name was officially changed to Whati under the Tåîchô Agreement in 2005.  

The Northwest Company set up a permanent post in the area in 1793 to supply other trading posts with food. A federal school opened here in 1955. Today, community attractions include a beach, waterfalls, excellent fishing and a number of annual festivals.

There are daily scheduled flights from Yellowknife, or in winter, a 145 km ice road from Highway 3 near Behchokö. There are old log homes in the older part of the community giving a traditional feel to this attractive community. Nestled in among the older homes is a modern, well-equipped school. Seven teachers teach multi-grade classes from Kindergarten to Grade Twelve. Services include a Catholic church, RCMP, grocery store, bed & breakfast, and convenience store. Fine and decorative arts, like beaded jackets, mitts, gloves and moccasins, are available through the Whatì Community Store.

Several kilometers away on the shore of the lake, there’s a comfortable camp for trout fishing enthusiasts. Close to the community, a small rapid provides good grayling fishing, guided by local residents.

Lac La Martre is one of the larger lakes on one of North America’s main north/south bird migration routes. In spring and fall hundreds of thousands of ducks, geese and other migratory species gather here in the marshes to feed. Local guides will provide transportation.

Whatì is an area rich in wildlife, and a traditional hunting area for the Tåîchô people.

Alcohol is prohibited here, by community plebiscite.

Taken from the NWT Bureau of Statistic