BC FISHING
TRIP IDEAS

LAKE FISHING

Fawn Lake Resort on the Fishing Highway 24

a peaceful and secluded retreat

Tucked away, just off BC’s Fishing Highway 24, is Fawn Lake Resort. Fawn is a small lake and the resort is a peaceful and secluded retreat for anglers and anyone else that enjoys connecting with nature.

There are no gas motors allowed on the lake and the resort has limited their power supply to 15amps, as a result, the property is incredibly quiet, clean and relaxing. It feels more like a cluster of family cabins than a resort. Some of the cabins date back to the 40’s and have been lovingly modernized, while others are brand new. There’s a well-stocked pantry on-site offering snacks, souvenirs, used books, and fishing tackle/flies.

Small to medium sized RV’s and trailers are welcome and there are also campsites close to the lake.

Don’t let Fawn’s size fool you, it’s stocked with Pennask, Fraser Valley, Horsefly, Black Water and Dragon strains of Rainbow Trout and is often highly productive for fly anglers. If the bite isn’t on at Fawn, there are plenty of other lakes nearby on 24 to explore.

Accommodations: Cabins, RV (small-medium), Camping
Amenities: Boats, SUP, Hiking, MTB, ATV
Fishing: Rainbow Trout

For more information: www.fawnlakeresort.com

fawn_lake-31

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Day Charters out of Prince Rupert

Get a Taste of the North Coast Fishing Experience

Prince Rupert has a long fishing history and getting out on the water while in the region should be on every visitor’s bucket list.

While many visitors to Prince Rupert do dedicate multiple days of their trip to fishing, there are plenty of opportunities to also book a single day trip.

Regardless of your level of experience, you can trust that the knowledgeable local charter guides will be able to provide you with a great experience.

And remember, going out on a fishing trip is about so much more than just catching fish. Taking in the sights of the rugged Northern coastline or viewing whales and other marine mammals is all part of the North coast experience.

For a comprehensive list of Charter operators visit www.visitprincerupert.com/business-listings/

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Dry Fly Fishing for Grayling near Prince George

Step into wild, remote portions of Northern British Columbia in search of Arctic Grayling

Northern British Columbia has earned its reputation as a steelhead fishing mecca, but few realize that this region is rich in fly fishing opportunity for a multitude of species.  On this list are the magnificent, and highly surface-oriented Arctic Grayling. Multiple rivers in the surrounding area of Prince George hold great numbers of Grayling, fishing a light single-handed rod and small dry flies in gin-clear rivers is a perfect Northern BC fishing experience. Ranging from one to three pounds and displaying a spectacular dorsal fin, grayling’s willingness to attack surface presentations makes it easy to see their appeal to the fly angler. Fishing in this part of the province is diverse, and allows the adventurous angler to step into a word of endless exploration due to the number of waterbodies within a short driving distance from town.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Dry Fly Fishing for Elk River Cutthroat

Leave your nymph box at home and float through one of BC’s finest Westslope Cutthroat fisheries

Flowing through the thriving town of Fernie, the Elk River has long been regarded as British Columbia’s premier fishery for Cutthroat trout on dry flies. These Westslope cutthroat are plentiful in the meandering waters of the Elk River, and incredibly surface-oriented.  Their willingness to chase a dead-drifted dry fly is what makes this fishery so desirable for anglers all over the world. The Elk River experiences over 20 different hatches throughout the duration of a season, many of them coinciding with the next. This adds up to spectacular cutthroat fishery that remains consistent from June until the end of October.  Another great addition to the Elk River are large bull trout which anglers can target using large, articulated streamers.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

LAKE FISHING

Prince George Stillwater Fly Fishing and Lodging with Northern Outback Adventures

With over 1,600 lakes in the surrounding area of Prince George, it is no wonder why so many stillwater fly fishing enthusiasts call Northern British Columbia home. Among these lakes, Northern Outback Adventures offers a full-service lodge just south of town. Gin-clear waters and rainbow trout that exceed eight pounds, this is a perfect weekend getaway for locals and visitors alike. Springtime sees a prolific chironomid emergence as fish cruise the shoals in search of these small but plentiful insects. As the transition to summertime approaches, mayflies, damsels, dragons and caddis flies begin their adult life. A main lodge for guests to enjoy hearty home-cooked meals and desserts, and a fleet of waterfront guest cabins equipped with wood stoves. There is a wood-burning sauna located behind the main lodge, and the adventurous angler will find a multitude of additional activities including kayaking, hiking or going for an evening cruise to soak up a Northern BC sunset.  Located just outside one of British Columbia’s most unique cities, this is a perfect getaway for locals and adventurers alike.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Sea-to-Sky Heli-Fishing Experience

An aerial approach to some of BC's most productive coastal rivers

Heli-fishing is the pinnacle of remote fishing experiences in British Columbia. There are no limits as to what can be accessed, and you are assured as you make your descent that you will not be sharing the river with anybody or anything other than yourselves and local wildlife. Heli-fishing is available year-round with Valley Fishing Guides, and depending on the season you will be pursuing trout, char, salmon, steelhead or a combination of species. Heli-fishing trips require advance planning, and will depart from either Squamish or Whistler on BC’s Sea-to-Sky Corridor. Swinging a fly down a run of one of many glacial rivers in a perfectly remote setting is an experience to be enjoyed by both novice and seasoned anglers, these trips are as much about the scenery and setting as they are about the fish themselves.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Winter Chinook Salmon Fishing around Powell River

British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast offers year-round opportunities for saltwater Chinook salmon fishing. From the months of October through March, winter (also referred to as “feeder”) Chinook salmon are readily caught in BC’s coastal waters. Averaging slightly smaller than their migratory counterparts, winter Chinooks will reside in bays, inlets and channels along British Columbia’s coastline.

The waters surrounding Texada and Harwood Islands provide both prime structure for baitfish and salmon alike, and offer shelter and flat water when heavy trade winds are present. What was originally founded as an industrial center, Powell River is now a renowned eco-tourism driven destination rich in scenery and fishing opportunity.

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Sunshine Coast Salmon and Halibut Fishing with OTB Charters

OTB, or “over the beach”, is a military term that translates to “will still work when wet”. This acronym perfectly describes owner Simon Hayter’s dedication to giving guests the best possible Sunshine Coast fishing experience. The Sunshine Coast is renowned as one of British Columbia’s most untouched regions, with rugged coastline and glistening Pacific salt water. Scenery aside, the Sunshine Coast’s year-round presence of Chinook salmon make it blatant why the Sunshine Coast is one of B.C’s most attractive saltwater fishing destinations. Dotted with islands and small inlets, the Sunshine Coast is a productive fishery for all five species of Pacific salmon as well as halibut, ling cod and a multitude of bottom species. OTB Charters operate out of the quaint, modestly-sized town of Pender Harbour, offering half-day and full-day saltwater fishing charters; OTB is fully outfitted with a multitude of fishing crafts to create a safe and comfortable experience on the water.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Squamish River Fly Fishing for Chum Salmon

The most underrated of the Pacific salmon are a spectacular species to chase on the fly

Chum salmon are wildly powerful, love to eat flies, and display their own unique beauty with vertical bars across their body in a vibrant purple colour. Squamish River fly fishing for Chum salmon is an excellent way to gain practice with a single or two-handed rod, and making a swung-fly presentation. The Squamish River empties into the Pacific waters of Howe Sound near the town of Squamish.  Opportunity to pursue these powerful creatures as they exit tidal water is some of the most exciting freshwater fishing found anywhere in British Columbia. Flies that are often fished for Steelhead with a large profile and ample movement will entice Chum salmon as they migrate upstream. Late-October through November sees abundant returns of these fish, with opportunity for dime-bright Coho salmon and sea-run Bull trout.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Fly Fishing for Trout and Char near Squamish

Year-round opportunity for both resident and sea-run trout and char species

The Squamish River and its tributaries are home to resident and migratory rainbow, cutthroat and bull trout throughout the year. There are seasons in which these fish will key in on different food sources, and times of the year that they will be found in unique locations, but 365 days annually you can find them in this vast and remote setting. Though the town of Squamish is located just an hour from the hustle and bustle of downtown Vancouver, it is in a world of its own. Grizzly bears and bald eagles frequent the valley, and views of snow-capped mountain peaks and glaciers makes fly fishing in Squamish a true British Columbia fishing experience. Bull trout are the predator of the system, often caught using large streamer patterns in deep tanks and pools.  Cutthroat and rainbow trout are found throughout these systems, chasing salmon fry in the spring and nestled behind spawning salmon in search of eggs through the fall months.  These rivers are accessible by foot, boat, or even by helicopter.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Bull Trout on the Fly in Golden

A thriving bull trout fishery at the base of the Canadian Rockies

Dave Burns of the Golden Gillie allows his passion for fly fishing Golden’s surrounding area shine naturally through his work as a guide. Golden’s surrounding area is teeming with glacial-tinted rivers that hold spectacular numbers of Bull trout, a member of the char species that are a favourite target species for fly anglers. Standing knee-deep in these glacial rivers as your fly swings across the current, surrounding yourself in the beauty of BC’s Rocky Mountain range, these are the experiences that Dave Burns prides himself on being able to share fly fishing in Golden with the world. Large streamer flies that hold their profile in silty water fished on sink-tip fly lines are highly effective in pursuing these apex predators. Single and multi-day fishing ventures with the Golden Gillie allows anglers to experience as much of this area as possible, though one could fish here for a lifetime and still have new water to discover.  Fishing aside, Golden is a popular tourism stop for those traveling to and from BC’s closest neighboring province.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

LAKE FISHING

Trophy Bull Trout Fishing in Kinbasket Lake

The productive and unpopulated waters of BC’s Kinbasket Lake

The glacial-silted waters of Kinbasket Lake stretch over 260 kilometers in length, beginning with the entrance of the Columbia River near the town of Golden. As one could assume, Kinbasket Lake sees very little angling pressure, but presents a wealth of opportunity for large rainbow and bull trout. Dave Trerice of Remote Waters has over a decade of guiding experience in his back pocket, and endless experience exploring every contour and structure that holds fish on this big, beautiful waterbody. Covering ground is the name of the game in a fishery such as Kinbasket, with pulling plugs or bucktails being preferred methods for both rainbow trout and char. The town of Golden is a thriving community for a multitude of activities including fishing, heli-skiing and snowmobiling. A day on the waters of Kinbasket Lake are to be enjoyed whether you are a seasoned angler or have never felt the bend of a rod before.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Ucluelet Salmon and Halibut Combo Trip

A west coast saltwater experience on Vancouver Island's Pacific Rim

The coastal waters of Ucluelet, BC are a haven for Pacific salmon, halibut, ling cod and a wide variety of bottom fish. The variety of fishing grounds that surround this coastal town make Ucluelet an ideal destination for both salmon and halibut fishing. Beginning in the late-spring, migratory Chinook salmon become present in close proximity to Ucluelet, averaging 15 to 25 pounds with fish exceeding 30 pounds being far from a rarity. Fishing in Ucluelet’s outer banks, ranging from 3 to 25 miles from the coastline, offer productive halibut fishing that coincides perfectly with the arrival of springtime Chinooks. In congruence with both salmon and halibut fishing, the migration of the magnificent Gray whale adds another aspect to Ucluelet’s fishing experience.

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Port Hardy Salmon Fishing Getaway with Bear Cove Cottages

Rich in history and tradition, the first known inhabitants of Vancouver Island lived in the quaint coastal town of Port Hardy.  Towering cedars, pristine coastline and a prolific saltwater fishery make Port Hardy a mainstay attraction to those visiting Vancouver Island every year. Owned by Wade and Shannon Dayley, Bear Cove Cottages provide anglers and adventurers alike a multitude of accommodation and package options. Offering three different accommodation options for singles, couples or groups, Bear Cove Cottages and Wicked Salmon Charters work in unison to provide an authentic Vancouver Island fishing experience. All five species of Pacific salmon, halibut, ling cod and various rockfish are available throughout the summer months in the waters surrounding Port Hardy. Some of the largest migratory Chinook salmon found anywhere in the Pacific tuck into Bear Cove Cottages’ fishing grounds as schools of Herring congregate near rock shelves and rock islands. If the desire to explore some of the area’s additional activities, guests can partake in beach-combing, kayaking, whale watching, or hike the lush forest of Cape Scott Provincial Park.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Port Hardy Fly Fishing with Tides and Tails Sport Fishing Adventures

From the moment you leave the dock, you will likely not finish your coffee before you arrive at the fishing grounds. Beginning in mid-August, Coho salmon are abundant and willing to chase a well-presented fly. Tides and Tails Sport Fishing Adventures specializes is a multitude of salmon and bottom fishing methods, with fly fishing for Coho salmon being a unique challenge for the saltwater angler. Amongst the schools of dime-bright Coho salmon are the occasional Chinook, Sockeye and Pink salmon. Coho salmon tend to swim high in the water column, making them a prime target for saltwater fly fishing. Using a variety of herring and baitfish imitations on sinking fly lines, their thunderous grabs and aerial display are what make Coho such a pleasurable species to target on the fly. Port Hardy is located on the northern reaches of Vancouver Island, and provides numerous salt and freshwater fly fishing opportunities in a serene setting.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Campbell River’s Salmon Fishing History is Worth Exploring

It was Roderick Haig-Brown who put Campbell River on the map. The renowned B.C. author and conservationist wrote extensively about his hometown and its tremendous fishing opportunities. In his many books and stories, Haig-Brown described in vivid detail the fishing rivers and ocean salmon grounds that have defined Campbell River as the “salmon capital of the world.”

The town, set on a protected inlet on the east side of Vancouver Island, is a prime area for big chinook salmon as these ocean kings gather here to feed on baitfish. The region’s historic lodges became centres for those who made annual trips to pursue these mighty fish.

Painter’s Lodge, for example, is legendary for those in search of “tyees” — mighty Chinook kings that exceed 30 pounds. Dating back to 1929, the lodge is close to famous salmon pools such as Tide Pool and Frenchman’s Pool.

Visiting anglers, which have included many of the rich and famous, often come here seeking entry into the Tyee Club, a distinction handed to those who catch a tyee according to a strict set of angling rules.

There are numerous lodges in Campbell River; each with their own charm and history, Anglers can spend years here, learning the stories each of the lodges have to share.

Visit https://www.campbellriver.travel/accommodations/ to learn more.

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Campbell River Late-Season Salmon Fishing

Late season chum fishing offers an unforgettable experience

Chum salmon are the unsung heroes of the angling world. Large and aggressive, these salmon often save the day for anglers when the search for more “noteworthy” salmon species comes up short. An experience with a hot chum salmon will change most fishermen’s notion of its value as a sport fish.  Campbell River’s salmon fishing history may have shined on the Chinook, but never should the pursuit of Chum salmon be overlooked.

Campbell River is well placed to offer anglers a tremendous chum salmon experience, especially in the fall when other species of salmon have passed. The town is central to many prime fishing grounds, areas well-known and defined by generations of previous anglers.

Ocean-fresh chum salmon are much like Coho in appearance and size, averaging 10 to 15 pounds. In the fall, as they approach coastal rivers in preparation for spawning, chum salmon travel in big schools and aggressively strike at lures and flies. Anglers who find themselves in the midst of a fast school of chum salmon will not forget the experience.

Lastly, ocean chum makes great table fare. They smoke well and are great on the barbecue.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Heli-Fishing near Prince George

Few experiences rival soaring over British Columbia’s vast wilderness in a helicopter, knowing that wherever you may land you will be the only ones there. Kate Watson of Northern Outback Adventures has pioneered an excellent heli-fishing program that allows anglers to experience the waters near Prince George from a different perspective. For anglers that prefer fishing moving water, Northern Outback Adventures reaches a multitude of remote river systems that hold large numbers of Bull trout.  A member of the char family, these are the apex predators of almost any river system they inhabit and are a great target species to pursue with streamers. For the stillwater enthusiast, the options are endless with over 1,600 lakes in Prince George’s surrounding area.  Lakes are fished from small personal watercrafts, anglers are always accompanied by both their guide and pilot for the duration of the day. Heli-fishing is a once in a lifetime experience, and the pristine waters of Northern BC provide a fly fishing experience found nowhere else in the province.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Harrison Hot Springs Sturgeon Trips

Guided Angling Adventures right off the dock of the Harrison Hot Springs Resort

Sport fishing and conservation come together in a truly one of a kind experience in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley. Based out of Harrison Hot Springs, BC Sportfishing Group’s experienced guides specialize in connecting guests with prehistoric White Sturgeon that can reach in excess of 13ft and 1500lbs.  This beautiful slice of British Columbia’s lower mainland is ideally located for anglers to access reaches of the Harrison River, a Sturgeon and salmon fishing haven.

When your day on the water is complete you can relax in one of five different hot-spring-fed mineral pools at the luxurious Harrison Hot Springs Resort.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Campbell River Salmon Charters

Salmon Charters a great way to learn the “secrets” of salmon fishing

Campbell River is close to some of the largest runs of passing salmon to be found anywhere on B.C.’s
coast. Set on a protected inlet on the east side of Vancouver Island, the area is prime for many
different kinds of salmon fishing at all times of the year.  Campbell River also offers ample river fishing opportunity for salmon and steelhead.

The tremendous variety of fishing opportunities has earned Campbell River the nickname of “salmon
capital of the world.” Those who want to try their hand and learn how to catch B.C.’s salmon are well
advised to start here, especially since the town is also home to many experienced salmon charter
and guide services.

There is real value in fishing with a guide, even if you are experienced in other areas. Guides offer
local knowledge and are aware of changing conditions. A good guide can find fish more quickly, and
gear anglers up properly. Every area has its tricks and tips, and the wealth of experience to be found
in the Campbell River fishing community makes this destination one of the best for those looking to
fast track their fishing success.  Rich in history, Campbell River is a must-stop for salmon fishing enthusiasts.

For more information about area guides and charters, visit
www.campbellriver.travel

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Sooke Offers Prime Fishing Adventures

Outdoor Trails And Terrific Fishing Minutes From Victoria

Sooke, on southern Vancouver Island, is just a short drive along paved Highway 14 West from Victoria, the province’s capital city. With lots of underwater structure in the area to hold baitfish, good salmon trolling is found as close as the harbour mouth, eastward along Sooke Bluffs to Becher Bay, westward to Otter Point, and onward to Sherringham Point. Because each odd-year is a cycle year for the southern Pink salmon, there will be plenty of these small, feisty salmon for novice and first-time salmon anglers to hone their fishing skills. Sooke, named after the Coast Salish T’sou-ke Nation, is renowned for hiking and cycling routes like the Galloping Goose and Juan de Fuca trails. You can also take in surfing, whale-watching, birdwatching, and artists’ studios.

RIVER FISHING

Fishing The Bull River

With origins high in the southern Rocky Mountains of British Columbia, the Bull River is a classic mountain stream with a healthy, thriving population of wild westlope cutthroat trout, as well as the odd bull trout in the river’s low reaches.

There is a dam several kilometres above the confluence with the Kootenay River, which divides the Bull River into two different sections. Downstream of the dam, the river can be floated and is guided by Fernie Wilderness Adventures. The long upper reaches do have a couple sections that can be rafted, but this section of the river is more easily explored on foot. Walking and wading is a popular efficient way to fish here.

All in all, there are at least 100 kilometres of wild river to explore.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Port Hardy’s Angling Adventures Also a Gateway to Region’s History

For A Whale Of A Time Fish Northern Vancouver Island

Port Hardy, at the northern end of Vancouver Island, perches on the edge of Queen Charlotte Strait. The strait squeezes waters from the open Pacific Ocean into a relatively narrow funnel between Northern Vancouver Island and the B.C. mainland. All five species of salmon – especially much sought-after, mature trophy chinook and coho returning to eastern Vancouver Island and mainland rivers – lurk in channels between innumerable islands and islets to ambush immense schools of bait pushed by powerful tidal currents. There are multiple options for oceanside accommodations in Port Hardy.  With so many fish passing through, it’s also a prime location to view resident populations of orcas, whose main diet is salmon. Learn about the history and culture of Port Hardy’s Kwakwaka’wakw First Nation, the town’s early beginnings, European settlement, and resource industries at the Port Hardy Museum and Archives.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Bamfield’s Fishing Experience is Second to None

Sound Fishing Amid Sensational Seascapes

Bamfield, at the mouth of spectacular Barkley Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island, is ideally located to take advantage of the region’s excellent salmon and bottom fishing. Early in the season, and again when mature chinook salmon are returning to the Robertson Creek Hatchery in mid-summer, anglers can find salmon right around the entrance to Bamfield Harbour or among the many islands within the Broken Group. The big fish-holding offshore banks are a bit farther to go, but offer consistently good fishing for mature salmon returning to Robertson Creek and many other rivers. Trolling lures just off the bottom can result in hot action for bottomfish as well as salmon. With its many protected waterways, and pretty islets with sandy beaches, Barkley Sound is a wonderful place explore in a kayak. Established in 1972, the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre (housed in the original Pacific Cable Board Station) is well worth a visit.

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Fish The West Coast of Vancouver Island Out of Tofino

Fishing The Open Pacific – It May Be Rock & Roll But You’ll Love it!

Consistent fishing for salmon and bottomfish that you can “bank” on awaits you out of Tofino, on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The continental shelf extends far into the Pacific Ocean, with relatively shallow sandbanks whose depressions and structure hold baitfish like sand lance and herring, and provide a nursery for immature salmon. The offshore banks are also a major feeding stop for mature, migrating salmon returning to the streams and rivers of Vancouver Island, B.C.’s Lower Mainland, and the American west coast. It might feel a bit unnerving to corkscrew in huge ocean rollers at the offshore banks, but that’s where the fishing action is hottest. Later in the summer, there’s also heart-stopping fly-fishing for aerobatic topwater coho as they lurk in nooks and crannies along the surf line. Be sure to stroll along aptly named Long Beach – maybe even join a surfboarding class – and enjoy exploring Tofino’s restaurants, galleries, and funky shops.  The “West Coast Lifestyle” is Tofino’s trademark.

COASTAL FISHING

Fishing Adventures on B.C.’s Wild Central Coast

Fabulous Fishing Amid The Splendour Of The Great Bear Rainforest

In the great Central Coast archipelago, myriad channels and passages branch from steep-sided, glacially carved fjords. Rocky indentations carved into the shoreline of wind- and wave-eroded islands and islets afford respite and a rich environment for vast schools of bait to thrive. Fishing out of some of BC’s best fishing lodges you’ll find mature salmon – especially the huge trophy chinook and coho returning to the Bella Coola, Rivers Inlet, and other southern river systems – along with scores of bottomfish. Choose to fish the way you want: inside protected waterways, or on the edges of exposed, ocean-facing outer islands. Be sure to discover the culturally rich Heiltsuk First Nation’s heritage in the village of Bella Bella, on Campbell Island. Look for ancient petroglyphs painted in red ochre on the sheer walls of mainland fjords. You might even spot an elusive white “Spirit Bear” during a wildlife tour.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Drifting the St. Mary River near Cranbrook

Drift boat fishing for cutthroat trout a classic experience

Some fishing trips are all about the fish while others are about the richness of the experience. Fly-fishing the St. Mary River near Cranbrook, BC defines the latter. It’s a freestone river filled with wild cutthroat trout that rise readily to dry flies. But it’s the trip through narrow canyons and twisting braided river channels that will truly impress and burn into memory. This is awe-inspiring wild country unlike anything else in British Columbia.

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Sturgeon Fishing Adventure near Chilliwack BC

Guided fishing for Fraser River sturgeon connects anglers with ancient fish in a contest like no other

He’s lived in the swirling water of the Fraser River for nearly 100 years, more than 13 feet and 1,500 pounds of ancient fish Dinosaur comes to mind when first seeing white sturgeon. Especially fish of the kind that work the bottom currents of the Fraser, one of B.C.’s most powerful rivers. These are the behemoths that write fishing legends. They test an angler’s endurance and their determination to hold the rod. Encounters with these sturgeon — one of the last wild populations of its kind in the world — are measured in hours. Fraser River sturgeon fishing is an experience to be had by anglers looking for a new challenge.

[youtube v=”q1pX9FqJkZY”]

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Brooks Peninsula and B.C.’s “Salmon Highway”

Tuna fishing is also close enough to lure the adventurous angler

Brooks Peninsula sits near the top of the western side of Vancouver Island. It is remote and isolated and takes time to get here but those who do will be rewarded by fishing unlike most other places in B.C. This region is close to ocean migration pathways known as “the salmon highway” that channels fish to southern destinations. Every year salmon bound for southern spawning rivers travel en masse by the peninsula, and anglers here get first access to it.. The fish are silver, strong and fresh, and school in big numbers. As well, there are ample populations of halibut, cod and other bottom fish. And for those with a taste for offshore ocean adventure, there are tuna opportunities nearby, although it might take a trip beyond sight of land to find them. The community of Zeballos makes a great base for this adventure, and a good place to find a guide.

COASTAL FISHING

Haida Gwaii, a Unique B.C. Fishing Experience

Expect isolation — you might not see another fisherman for days

Isolation. Beautiful scenery. Access to diverse runs of salmon, including coho and chinook salmon, at the start of their passage down the West Coast, and an unrivalled variety of bottom fish. These are the defining characteristic of a fishing experience on Haida Gwaii, one of B.C.’s most interesting coastal destinations. The small islands of the Haida Gwaii are ecologically distinct from the mainland of British Columbia, having evolved separately over millennia. There is more wildlife than people, and more natural fishing opportunities than almost anywhere else.

This is a unique part of the province well worth the trip. Remote, fly-in lodges offer easy access, with trips all-inclusive from Vancouver. Guiding services can be readily found in Queen Charlotte City and Masset.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

COASTAL FISHING

Fishing Port Alberni’s Variety of Ocean Species

Fiord-like inlet offers protection and unique

Port Alberni sits on the west coast of Vancouver Island, and while it faces the vast expanses of the open Pacific Ocean, its location on a grid-like inlet affords tremendous protection. As a result, fishing for salmon here is often done on calmer waters. As well, there are interesting opportunities to catch prawn and shrimp, a great daily bonus to be had on top of a catch of salmon. Like most coastal destinations, Port Alberni is a scenic wonder. Mountains meet rainforest and ocean in spectacular fashion, providing visitors with natural connections that enrich the experience, and make trips memorable.

LAKE FISHING

Fall Trophy Stillwater Fly Fishing on Sheridan Lake

Sheridan Lake the autumn jewel in Fishing Highway 24’s crown

The lakes of the famous “Fishing Highway 24” combine to make a trout fisher’s mecca. There are more quality stillwaters here than many could hope to fish through an entire season. There are large lakes that grow big trout and small secluded ones where the only company might be a loon, or an osprey. Sheridan Lake is one of big lakes, and a prime destinations in this chain. Fall is the one of the best times to visit here. The summer crowds have dwindled and the resorts almost always have room. As the days shorten and the water cools, Sheridan fish ramp up a last-ditch feeding effort before their world is sealed away by ice. This is Interior fishing at its best, for big fish in a truly beautiful location.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

LAKE FISHING

Pristine Lakes and Trophy Rainbows near Golden BC

Catch the trout of a lifetime on small, secluded lakes with no cell phones to interrupt your experience

Nestled amongst the benchlands above the Columbia River, with views of the Rocky and Spillimacheen mountains, lie numerous quality-managed stillwater trout fisheries. Double-digit rainbows can be found in lakes reached via a network of gravel roads and short trails to the lakeshore outside of Golden BC. Clear, shallow water and consistent aquatic insect hatches are there for the adventurous angler. The best time for chasing these dream fish is from May through the end of October.

GOLDEN GILLIE FINAL 60.00_00_11_11.Still001

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

LAKE FISHING

Bucktailing for Gerard Rainbows on Kootenay Lake

Bucktails and really big fish are a combination few anglers will forget

The Gerard strain of rainbow trout are the stillwater heavyweights of B.C.’s fishing world. They co-exist in a unique relationship with the lake’s resident population of kokanee, which are landlocked sockeye salmon. Feeding on the annual outpouring of kokanee smolts from small creeks and streams allows Gerards to gain monstrous size, often more than 20 pounds. Kootenay Lake boasts one of British Columbia’s greatest populations of this unique strain.  They are predators, pure and through, and anglers who strip bucktails or trail streamers in the right place at the right time can bank on arm-jarring runs that many would associate with fast river steelhead. This is a big lake, and experience counts — anglers are well advised to find the services of a good guide to help them in this unique fishing quest.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

LAKE FISHING

Early Spring Stillwater Fishing in the Nicola Valley

Spring fishing one of the best times to visit the grasslands

The low-altitude lakes of the Nicola Valley near Merritt are often the first in B.C.s Interior to be free of winter’s grip every spring. Less than an hour from Kamloops, they offer the keen angler a chance at early season trout most others will need to wait weeks more to see. Many of the lakes are set in rolling grasslands or sparsely treed stands of pine and fir. They are shallow, productive and teeming with trout. It can be tough fishing, as early season weather is unpredictable, but for those who have a hardy spirit and a sense of adventure, there are trophy days to be found. And of course, there are many resorts, guides and outfitters in the area who can cater day-long or multi-day trips to each angler’s needs and experience.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Blackwater River Rainbow Trout on the Fly

These rainbows wrote the definition for hard fighting

The Blackwater River is home to a unique strain of rainbow trout so spectacular that their genetics are incorporated into B.C.’s provincial fish stocking program. These trout are ready feeders that take flies (especially dry flies) with abandon, then challenge anglers with spectacular leaping battles in the Blackwater’s hard current. And of course, the country the river weaves through is spectacular too. Floating the Blackwater River is an experience not soon forgot.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

RIVER FISHING

Elusive Bull Trout are a Special Kind of Trophy

Guided fishing in Fernie’s rivers can produce unique experience

Bull trout are big, aggressive fish that attack streamers with a ferocity that will shock many fishermen. They are unique and increasingly rare predators that thrive in pristine environments. The many rivers near Fernie offer spectacular opportunity to find and catch these once-in-a-lifetime fish, all of it set against the classic backdrop and magnificence of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

EXPLORE

EXPLORE