Articles
Our Rivers and Lakes Offer World Class Fishing By Fred Helmer
“Great fishing” is often used to describe the Fraser Valley. Here you will find some of the best fresh water sports fishing in the world. Chilliwack, British Columbia is central to a wide variety of fishing opportunities for Salmon, Sturgeon, Steelhead and Trout. The mighty Fraser River, passing through Chilliwack on its 1,600 kilometer (1,000 mile) journey from northern British Columbia to the Pacific Ocean, supports all five species of Pacific salmon – Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, Chum, and Pink – offering salmon fishing opportunities from April through November. The Fraser River and its tributaries is also home to the white sturgeon, among the world’s largest freshwater fish. These tremendous fish are a throwback to prehistoric times. They live for more than 150 years and grow in excess of 4.5 meters (15 feet) in length and up to 450 kilograms (1,000 pounds) in weight. Sturgeon is considered one of the toughest fish on the planet. These extremely durable fish provide anglers from around the world a fishing experience of a life time. This majestic species is protected with a catch and release fishery that is supported by the sport fishing industry, in fact, assisting in scientific monitoring programs to ensure a secure future for the magnificent white sturgeon of the Fraser River. Salmon fishing in the Fraser Valley begins in April as the first returns of Chinook muscle their way to their natal streams. Their numbers increase as the summer approaches. Chinook, or king salmon, average 7 kilograms to 14 kilograms (15 to 30 pounds) but can be as heavy as 29 kilograms (65 pounds). Chinook are powerful & hard fighting fish. Their size and the combination of fast flowing river currents can result in stories of the big one that got away. During the summer months we expect large runs of Sockeye salmon that provide anglers with plenty of action when the abundance allows for the recreational sector to enjoy this special fishery. The Pink salmon return this year to the Fraser system from mid-August through early October. This species is a delight to catch as they are super aggressive and will take flies, spinners, spoons and jigs. These runs are typically very healthy so the entire family can enjoy this great opportunity, with lots of fish for everyone. As the fall approaches several of the local rivers such as the Harrison and Chilliwack/Vedder River banks fill with enthusiastic anglers that are in hot pursuit for fall runs of Chinook, Coho, and Chum salmon. These runs are enhanced by two very productive hatchery facilities bringing the returns into hundreds of thousands of fish, creating phenomenal fishing, on several well known rivers in the area. Steelhead is a Sports Anglers dream fish. They are available from late October to the end of April. These beautiful sea-run trout can exceed 9 kilograms (20 pounds) and are known for their cunning and elusive nature. Hatchery and wild steelhead entice anglers from December until April on the most productive waters of the Chilliwack/Vedder River, but only hatchery fish may be kept. All wild steelhead must be released. Numerous lakes and other rivers in the area offer year-round opportunities to fish for rainbow and cutthroat trout. Some of these bodies of water are easily access by car or boat. Skilled outdoor enthusiasts may well prefer to hike into lakes in the Fraser Valley for fishing and camping in pristine natural surroundings. Fisheries in Chilliwack and its surrounding areas are managed under various regulations. We recommend that you visit a local fishing tackle shop for up-to-date information and for licenses. If you desire the services of one of the area’s professional charter outfits, the Fraser Valley Angling Guides Association provides insured and licensed guides to make your visit to Chilliwack and the Great Outside complete.
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