With summer activities now in reach, the opportunities to get out and explore are out there. One area well worth discovering is the Hanford Reach in the eastern half of Washington State. Hanford Reach abounds with sights and activities along the river and throughout the region.

The gorgeous Columbia River, Hanford Reach. Photo: Flickr / fly

About Hanford Reach

The Reach is the last free-flowing section of the Columbia River, almost 51 miles (82 km) long. Named after a sizeable northward curve in the river’s otherwise southerly flow, it meanders through a former nuclear production facility dating from WWII – the Hanford Site. Apart from small sections between the U.S. and Canadian border and part of F.D. Roosevelt Lake at Grand Coulee, the river is non-tidal.

The Reach was once a historic Indian fishing ground with numerous camps like Wy-Yow-Na and Tah-Koot along its southern shoreline, near present-day Locke Island. Here, evidence of ancient habitation is abundant, with remnants of obsidian arrowheads, scraping, and cutting tools.

Hanford Reach National Monument

Near the original Hanford Site security zone, lies the Hanford Reach National Monument. The monument was established by Presidential decree in 2000, making it one of the State’s more recent tourist sites. While spanning 57,000 acres, the Reach is free and open from sunrise to sunset, with some variations during hunting season.

Hanford Reach National Monument is one of just two National Monuments administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and forms part of the Columbia River plateau. As with much of eastern Washington State, the stunning but stark shrub-steppe landscape is harsh and very dry.

Yet despite its lack of rainfall – 5 to 10 inches (13-25 cm) per year – the area is a contrast of giant bluffs and delicate flowers. Also, it is home to a diverse variety of animal and rare plant life defying the wind, heat, and drought.

Large herds of elk are often seen, their numbers varying seasonally and peaking in winter. Coyotes, great blue herons, bald eagles, white pelicans, badgers, bobcats, and cougars are also found as well as the most abundant – varying species of mice. The Hanford Reach, due to its non-polluted waters, is also home to significant shoals of carp, trout, and bass.

Museum and Interpretive Center at Hanford Reach. Photo: Shutterstock / Tada Images

Priest Rapids Dam

Priest Rapids Dam sits upstream and in the opposite direction lies the McNary Dam, which shuts off the lower parts of the Snake River – the Columbia’s largest tributary. Spanning Yakima County and the southwest edge of Grant County, Priest Rapids Dam sits 24 miles (38.6 km) south of Vantage and 47 miles (75.6 km) northeast of Richlands, close to State Route 243.

Initially, a fast-flowing, narrow section of the Columbia River, construction of the dam in 1956 flooded the Priest Rapids. Photo opportunities are many, and surprisingly despite this vast concrete invasion, the area between McNary Dam downstream and Priest Rapids Dam provides one of the best salmon spawning grounds in the Northwest.

Fishing

Speaking of salmon, Hanford Reach is home to a spectacular fishery. Steelhead salmon are one of the most valued and prized fish in the Columbia River system. During their return migration from the Pacific, you can often yield catches of over 20 pounds (9 kg). Just remember to release all steelhead unharmed.

In addition to steelhead, you may also catch trophy bass, fall chinook salmon (found in the thousands during migration), and white sturgeon throughout the Columbia.  So, grab your motorboat, kayak, raft, or canoe and head out for some prized catches in Hanford Reach. Launch your boat from the undeveloped area at Ringold Fish Hatchery or through Parking Lot 7 at Wahluke.

Winter fishing on the Columbia River at Hanford Reach. Photo: Flickr / David Lee

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP

Aside from fishing, Hanford Reach offers a lovely stretch of a waterway for cruising in a kayak or canoe. The free-flowing waters provide the opportunity for a fun, relaxing ride along with wildlife viewing along the river.

However, since there are minimal facilities along the river and no camping available, you’ll want to prepare for the trip. Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and observe closed areas along Hanford Reach. Since weather fluctuates, remember to prepare for elements by wearing sunscreen, prepping for wind, and inquiring about conditions.

A few common routes are the White Bluffs Boat Ramp to Parking Area 7, Parking Area 7 to Ringold Fish Hatchery, and Priest Rapids Dam to the Vernita Bridge. Each route is 8 miles. Be aware of changing river conditions and currents as you portage or anchor your craft since water Priest Rapids Dam controls the levels. To canoe or kayak the full-length of Hanford Reach, consider a two day-trips on the rive.

For those without a craft, you can rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard at Columbia Kayak Adventures. Rentals are available at the end of Lee Blvd in Howard Amon Park in Richland. Typically tours are also available but now suspended due to COVID-19. Keep up to date via their Facebook on any changes to rentals, tours, and their retail shop. The retail store is currently closed due to COVID-19, as well.

Read More: Prep Your Kids For Canoeing, You Will Thank Me Later

The gorgeous surrounding area of Hanford Reach, making for excellent river activities. Photo: Flickr / David Lee

Events Near Hanford Reach

The community of Richland, along with Kennewick and Pasco, forms part of southern Washington State’s ‘Tri-Cities’ region. One of the significant events in the area is the Tri City’s Water Follies hydroplane racing at Kennewick’s Columbia Park East. Pulling huge crowds, it has become one of the Pacific Northwest’s biggest weekend festivals.

The event takes place annually each July. In 2020, however, the event has been postponed due to COVID-19. According to the Water Follies, they hope to run the event later this year. 

Typically, the event features civilian and military air displays, games, music as well as the hydroplanes. Also, broadcast on radio, national and local television to over 3 million people, and via the internet, the Kennewick Races have received numerous prestigious awards.

Go Visit

The Hanford Reach area is very much an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise as visitors currently have access to over 57,000 acres of wildlife-dependent recreation. While hunters can track down the occasional elk and trophy mule deer, anglers can pursue salmon, steelhead, white sturgeon, bass, and many other sportfish. Spring produces colorful wildflowers, and abundant wildlife provides year-round observation and photo opportunities.

Furthermore, the river provides ample recreation opportunities, including kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. So, whether you’re interested in sightseeing, hunting, history, wildlife, fishing, or just enjoying an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Hanford Reach National Monument and its surroundings have something quite definite to offer you.

See more information and rules and regulations for Hanford Reach at the U.S Fish & Wildlife Service.

Would you visit Hanford Reach and the surrounding area? What are your favorite activities in the area? Let us know in the comments below!

A version of this article originally appeared in Snowshoe Magazine, April 2012

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Fishing is a great hobby to get into, no matter the time. It’s inexpensive, easy to learn, and it gives you another fantastic reason to explore the great outdoors. Assuming you eat what you catch, fish can also provide you with an excellent source of quality protein and fat. But before you try and catch your first fish, learn the steps to get started, including basic terms and equipment you’ll need, in our fishing guide for beginners.

Don’t forget your tackle box! Photo: Scott Hotaling

1. Buy A Fishing License

The first step in your fishing adventure should be to buy a state fishing license. They’re usually inexpensive (~$25 per year) and easy to get. You can buy one online at TakeMeFishing.org or the U.S Fish & Wildlife Service, or local fishing tackle shops and designated convenience stores.

Whenever you go fishing, make sure you bring your license with you and keep it on you while you’re fishing at all times. Fishing without a license is punishable by fines up to $250 and/or 15 days in jail. Also, always make sure the area you choose to fish permits it, as some parks and designated areas prohibit fishing.

Now that you’ve got your license, let’s go over the basics of the type of gear you’ll want to bring with you on your trip. Of course, it all starts with a fishing rod, reel, and line.

2. Grab Your Rod and Reel

Generally, it’s best to start with a fishing rod and reel combo if you’ve never fished before. Many reels and rods are sold separately, but in a combo, they’re sold together and usually much easier to set up. Check out The Best Beginner Fishing Rod for a great review of some of the best fishing rods for beginners. You can also visit your local tackle shop or a convenience store that sells fishing equipment and talk to an employee about buying a rod and reel that’s right for you.

A rod and reel combo is great for fishing beginners. Photo: Scott Hotaling

3. Choose Your Fishing Line

When deciding on the type of fishing line to choose, there are three main varieties:

• Monofilament is usually the best option for beginners, due to its low cost, adversity to getting tangled on the reel and the ease of tying knots
• Fluorocarbon is more abrasion-resistant. It’s also less visible to fish than monofilament but much stiffer, which makes it more susceptible to tangling, especially if your reel is over-spooled.
• Braided line is smaller in diameter than both fluorocarbon and monofilament, which allows you to put more line on your spool. Braided line also makes it easier to cast longer distances. It’s very stretch resistant, allowing you to feel lighter bites and making it easier to drive the hook into the fish’s mouth. Using this type of line, however, makes tying knots difficult for a beginning fisher. Like fluorocarbon, it tangles quite easily, making monofilament a better overall choice for a beginner.

Fishing line also comes in different strengths, called the pound test. Pound test is a measurement of how much stress the line can take before it breaks. The larger the number, the stronger the line.

Lower pound test is best used for smaller fish and while fishing in open water. A higher pound test is needed when fishing for larger fish and when fishing in heavy cover. Choose monofilament line in the 2-6lb test range for a great beginner setup.

Read More: Fly Fishing First-Timer’s Guide

4. Choosing Your Hooks

Since smaller fish like bluegill are great for beginners to gain experience with, you’ll want to buy smaller hooks rather than large ones because these fish have smaller mouths. One important thing to remember about hook sizes is that the higher the number, the smaller the hook.

So, for example, a size 6 hook is bigger than a size 10 but smaller than a size 2. Also notice that sizes are all in even numbers, except size 1. As the hook size increases past 1, measurements change to aughts, written 1/0, 2/0, etc. As these numbers get higher, the hook size gets larger. So, size 2/0 is larger than 1/0 and smaller than 3/0. Stick with smaller hooks for now, and stay within the 6-10 range.

Having fun fishing!

Fishing hooks also come in many styles:

• Baitholder hooks are best when using live bait, such as worms. It’s best because this type of hook has two barbs on the shank (the long, straight part of the hook) to help secure the bait.
• Circle hooks are also bait friendly, and fish rarely swallow the hook. One significant difference is that with circle hooks, you do not have to set the hook.
• Aberdeen hooks have a longer shank and are slimmer from hook to shank, making it easier to remove the hook from the fish. These tend to work best when fishing for bluegill. The easy removal of the hook makes them great for beginners to use.

5. Choosing Your Bobbers

When it comes to bobbers, it’s best to keep it simple. Smaller ones for smaller fish, larger ones for larger fish. A small bobber offers less resistance against the fish when it bites and is more sensitive, so you can see and feel the bite better on your line.

Many beginners make the mistake of buying bobbers that are too big. The classic round, red and white, clip-on bobbers are easy to attach to the line and are an excellent choice for beginners. Another type of bobber, the slip bobber, slides up and down the line and can help you reach greater depths in the water.

6. Don’t Forget Your Sinker!

Lastly, you’ll want to buy some sinkers to attach to your line so your bait will sink nicely. Traditionally, sinkers were made of lead. Now, however, small lead sinkers under ½-oz can no longer be sold in some states.

There are more eco-friendly options now made from other materials such as tin, tungsten, and steel. When lead sinkers are lost, fish and other wildlife can mistakenly swallow them and be poisoned, so it’s always best to buy lead-free sinkers.

Just like with bobbers, aim small. The lighter the weight, the less resistance the fish feels when biting it. Small split shot sinkers, which easily clip on and off your line, are another great choice when buying equipment for the first time.

7. Go Out & Cast!

Once you have all of your gear and bait on the line, your last step for fishing as a  beginner is casting, which is simple with a little practice.

Step 1: Hold the rod and reel between your fingers and use your index finger to hold the line against the rod

1. Hold the rod, so the reel is between your fingers and then use your index finger to hold the line against the rod.
2. Once the line is secure, open the bail of the reel with your other hand.
3. Now, raise the rod up or to the side and flick the rod using your elbow and wrist, letting go of the line about halfway through your motion to cast your line toward the intended target.
4. Close the bail when your cast is complete. With practice, you’ll be able to hit your target every time!

Step 2: Open the bail of the reel, while holding the line with your other hand

Don’t forget to buy a small, sturdy tackle box to store all of the equipment mentioned above. Also, remember to bring needle-nose pliers for bending and taking swallowed and hard to release hooks out, scissors for cutting line, and a first-aid kit. Bluegill and other fish have sharp fins that can cause a minor cut on your hand, and hooks can sometimes hook you by accident, so it’s better to have a first-aid kit to be safe.

Good luck and remember always to fish responsibly!

What tips would you recommend while fishing for beginners? Let us know in the comments below!

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Gone Fishing, British Columbia

Salmon have been swimming upstream to lay their eggs throughout the mountainous archipelago nation of Japan for thousands of years. The ruby-red eggs and succulent pink flesh of these powerful swimmers are more than just a source of delicious protein. The caught fish have provided tax revenues for emperors and feudal lords, served as New Year’s gifts, paid for schools, and become symbols of various regions. Salmon are imparted with a special cultural status in the northern Japanese city of Murakami, Japan.

Murakami natives clean the salmon, rub their bodies with salt, and hang the fish head downward with their mouths open. Salmon dangle from the eaves of markets, homes, restaurants, hotels, and the local salmon museum/hatchery/park. Powerful winds that sweep across the Sea of Japan are said to increase the flavor of the flesh. They are being air-dried, a preservation technique that goes back longer than anyone can remember.

Paying taxes in Japan with salmon also has a long history. Pamphlets distributed at the museum of salmon in Murakami, point out that local salmon were sent as tax to the Emperor of Japan around 900 A.D. In the early 1600s, the daimyo, or feudal lord, of Murakami also used salmon as a source of revenue. The lord sold the rights to fish within various sections of the Miomote River, which curves through Murakami. The fishing rights reportedly brought in more than 350 gold coins in one year, a tremendous sum at that time. To prevent overfishing and loss of revenue, salmon fishing was forbidden within certain areas. The lord rewarded people who informed on salmon poachers with silver.

For years, the salmon supported the economy of Murakami. However, within a short time, overfishing and habitat destruction resulted in such a decline in the salmon harvest that the once prospering Murakami fell into dire straits. In 1736, the lord of Murakami received only five gold coins. Poverty increased as well as poaching of the small number of salmon that were still returning to the Miomote River. The salmon population was decimated, and it appeared to be the end of the Murakami salmon runs.

Enter an inquisitive and environmentally aware samurai named Aoto Buheiji. Given the duty of restoring the salmon population, he took countless trips up and down the length of the twenty-five-mile long river, researched areas where the salmon spawned and compared those with places that the salmon did not spawn. He interviewed old people who lived along the riverbanks, as well as fishermen, and reviewed all the available records of salmon that he could get his hands on. Murakami credits him with being the first to report on the fact that salmon return to the same location to spawn. Using this knowledge, he came up with a controversial plan to increase the scant spawning salmon to previously recorded numbers.

Buheiji’s research led him to create the tanegawa-no-sei, (Tane means seed, gawa is river, and sei conveys the idea of sex.) a unique conservation system that has since been implemented in numerous Japanese rivers and rivers in other countries. First, based on his accumulated knowledge, he designated sections of the river as protected areas for spawning. He ordered fences to be constructed in the river to prevent salmon from passing beyond those areas. The restricted salmon eventually spawned in those areas that Buheji selected for having optimal spawning conditions. Fishing in those areas was prohibited until after spawning season was finished.

He also divided a part of the river into separate channels. Fishermen were allowed to catch salmon ascending one section of the divided river. Taking salmon from another channel became illegal. Harvesting in the salmon breeding channel was limited to only those individuals who had special permission to harvest the eggs for incubation purposes.

However, not all of the local people agreed with the plan. Many local fishermen and other residents were angered at being prohibited from using the resources of the river as they had done in the past. There were angry protests. Fights erupted between the conservationists and their opposition. Some opponents destroyed the fencing in the river, and others protested to high-ranking government officials. Buheiji was called to the nation’s capital for a meeting. After conferring with Buheiji, though, the national government decided to support his controversial conservation plan.

He succeeded. The salmon returned in great numbers to Murakami. Buheiji’s work was so successful that the lord of Murakami in 1760 received 300 gold coins from taxes on the right to fish salmon. In 1859, the population rebounded so much that using the same taxation system, the lord of Murakami received 5,600 coins.

Buheiji spawned generations of salmon researchers. In the 1800s, locals established the Murakami Salmon Foundation, which experimented with artificial incubation. The foundation also introduced Chinook salmon from the United States. The salmon population kept increasing, and the salmon wealth was distributed among the residents.

More than 700,000 salmon were harvested in 1884. The tax revenues and sell of salmon paid for schools and orphanages in Murakami. The orphans were nicknamed “salmon children.”

Regrettably, a changing social structure and development in the twentieth century caused a sharp decline in the river’s health. Only 10,000 salmon were caught in 1948. Miomote Dam, constructed in 1953, exacerbated the situation. The catch plummeted to just 1,000 in 1954. Fishing groups in Murakami put more effort into the hatching, raising, and release of salmon fry. The salmon harvest is now approximately 10,000.

On the autumn day that I first walked through the salmon park on the banks of the local Miomote River, Sparkling salmon splashed and churned in the shallow pebbly areas of the river, leaping upwards and forward, straining to overcome barriers in their way. A fisherman stood in a knee-high section of crystal water. Grey and white herons stoically waited for fish to come near. Crows, commenting on the action, noisily squawked. Hawks flew in spirals above the rushing water, occasionally swooping downward to the surface. Within the river, there was a salmon trap. The trapped salmon would be taken to the hatchery at the nearby salmon museum. We stayed until the sun set in the horizon and strolled back through the autumn woods towards the museum.

As we walked by the outside of a fish shop near the museum, a man was taking glittering salmon from a tub and rubbing white salt into the flesh. The salmon had just been caught. He was preparing them to be hung from the eaves of the museum. Their skin flickered under the strong outdoor lights. I watched for a few minutes. Looking down, I noticed a manhole in the street. An image of a salmon was etched into the metal.

The salmon museum is on the grounds of the salmon park, which has walking paths along the river. Tour the museum to study the history of salmon in Murakami. It is a wonderful place to learn about salmon biology and the major cultural importance given to one species of fish.

A hatchery shares the grounds with the museum and hatchery exhibits explain the cycle from egg to fry to salmon. Salmon at various stages of development swim in small aquariums or in wide tanks. Within the connected building, cultural trends in art and eating habits are reflected in the museum exhibits of decades of advertisements for salmon and salmon products. Salmon displays in the museum also include shoes, hats, and a jacket made from the skin. Tools for catching salmon, such as nets, traps, and spears, date back many hundreds of years. Faded black and white photographs of locals catching salmon stretch from the beginnings of photography in Japan to colorful images of modern life.

In mid-December, I strode past the salmon museum to the Miomote River to see locals catching salmon in river sections where salmon fishing is permitted to those with permits. Swimming and spawning salmon were stirring in the water. The icy river banks held chewed and pecked at carcasses of fish that had spawn and naturally expired. Despite the 1C outdoor temperature, well-bundled fishermen were standing or sitting on the river banks with four meter or longer fishing poles and tossing lines with treble hooks into the clear water.

Most of the fishermen were past retirement age, but one grandfather had his grandson by his side. After his grandfather pulled in a five-kilogram male salmon, the boy proudly held it up for me to photograph. The boy was learning the salmon culture from his grandfather. Hopefully, the grandson will also learn to protect the environment, so his future grandchildren can continue the tradition of salmon fishing in Murakami.

I can’t remember any summer vacations growing up that weren’t spent in Montana. The family would rent a motorhome, and we’d drive from one river to another for the first two weeks in August. As flyfishermen, it was the ultimate pilgrimage to some of the best trout streams in the country, if not the world. I remember a feeling of dread as the trip ended because it meant there were only two weeks left before school started, but while we were fishing in Montana, I had few worries.

Nowadays, even a vacation has responsibilities. Kids, dog, a job that won’t stop emailing; all these keep me from slipping into that zero-worry state from childhood. As relaxing as a three-day backpack in the backcountry is, I’m still always concerned about the well-being of the kids. So vacations, where I’m the adult, aren’t really vacations.

That’s one of the reasons I enjoy fishing with my father. Most of the time, he’s Grandpa Jack, but when the kids are a couple of states away, he’s just Dad. Even though I drive and pay more than my share for the cost of a trip to Montana, he’s still Dad.

Fly Fishing on the Missouri near Craig, Montana

We drove from Seattle to Helena on Thursday. It’s a long drive, figure about 10 hours. Maybe 12 if you stop as much as we did and obey the speed limits. We pulled into Craig, the tiny three-fly-shops-two-bars-one-church town on the Missouri River just after dinner. Once we found our keys, I was asleep without much fanfare.

In the morning, we met our guide, Tim Plaska, at The Trout Shop. It’s the biggest and best of the three shops in Craig. Plus, it runs the lodge we stayed in, not to mention a cafe. Heck, for all I know, they own the restaurant and the other fly shops, too.

Tim’s been our guide many times before. The last two times I was fishing on the Missouri River, he was our guide. Also, my father has floated with him many other times. Like last year, we started at the Holter Dam and planned to float downstream to Craig.

The fish weren’t on the surface much, but we did great with streamers and nymphs. It’s incredible that fish that big will take a fly that small. Tiny. Teeny-tiny, in fact.

Every fish we saw was a good size. A 20-degree rainbow wasn’t out of the question, and none were smaller than 15 degrees. The area is not stocked (no Montana rivers are stocked), so where are the little fish? Do the big fish simply pop into existence, or do the little fish hide? If so, how do they get to be the big fish? One may never know.

What a great day for fishing in the Missouri River

Although it was cold to start the day (it had snowed a few days before), it slowly warmed up, and the wind died down. By the end of the day, it was downright balmy. It’s no wonder that while walking along the shore on one of our frequent stops to wade-fish, I was startled by a very distinctive noise.

It was that rattling noise that, even if you’ve never really heard it before, you know exactly what it is. Right at my feet, the big rattlesnake slithered into the rocks, slowly shaking its tail.

O. M. G. (There might have been some other words thrown in, too.)

I scampered away from the rock pile to where I could take pictures safely while my father fished. He hooked one, and Tim got out of the boat to help net it. Rattling made him reconsider. Dad lost the fish, but we were ok with that.

When it was time to go back to the shore, he was there again. Mr. Rattler was lounging on the rocks soaking in the warm sun. He wasn’t too interested in me, so I was able to get some pictures well out of striking distance (I hope). I’d be happy to cross that experience off my list and never see another one in the wild again.

We didn’t catch all the fish or the biggest fish, but we were into 17, by Tim’s count. 17 big fish is a great day, even if you don’t land them all. Besides, it’s not like we were going to keep any of them. We’re 100 percent catch-and-release.

After bidding Tim goodbye, we had dinner at the fantastic restaurant, Izaak’s. It sounds weird, but I swear they make one of the tastiest burgers anywhere. And the atmosphere is a strange blend of locals, visiting fishermen (and increasingly fisherwomen), and dogs. No need for you to go into Helena for fine dining, it’s right in Craig.

One of our catches (and releases) while fishing in Craig

Fly Fishing in Rock Creek near Missoula

The next morning we left Craig and headed back, almost to Missoula. When I was a kid, Rock Creek was the first and last stream we fished each year. Even though it didn’t perform on last year’s trip, I was excited to go back. Besides, this year we had info on how to find the secret spot. It was going to be good.

Except when we got there, the secret spot was (a) where we fished last year and (b) full of people. Hmph. We continued upstream another mile or two and found a turnout that wasn’t occupied.

Rock Creek is such a great stream, and so close to a “major” population center (Missoula, 68,000 people), it is often crowded. The trick is to find a section where you can’t see anyone else and fish upstream. Sure, you might be fishing the same water that was fished earlier in the day, but since there’s literally (well, almost literally) a fish behind every rock, it’s not a problem.

Fishing in Rock Creek, near Missoula

Being a purist, I fished only a dry fly. It was plenty good. Over a few hours, I landed 14 fish, touched another 13, and flat out missed 13 more. Often I could see the fish come to the surface and casually take the fly. (Usually, I missed those because I was too distracted watching the fish.)

My father and I fished together but also split up where the creek broke into channels. Just like when I was little, he insisted I take the first shot at each hole. Unlike when I was little, I didn’t miss as much, so he had fewer chances.

We didn’t see the moose, rumored to hang out in the area (not for lack of trying). However, we did find a herd of bighorn sheep. I’ve only ever seen sheep in passing on the way to Lake Chelan, east of the Cascades in Washington. This time we were able to hang out with them and the big lens. I had fun.

Our drive back provided another eight hours to talk about nothing in particular as well as time to just sit next to each other as the miles flew past. By the time we crested Snoqualmie Pass and began the descent into western Washington, I was back to thinking about what I had to do later that day and later that week.

None of it was especially pressing, but it all reminded me that despite my best efforts, I had indeed grown up. And despite my age and role as a husband and father, it’s critically important that I sometimes get to be a son again. If you haven’t tried that in a while, make time for it. And make the other adults in your family make time for it, too. We should all be kids once in a while so we can understand why our kids are doing what kids do.

Have you been fishing near the Missouri River or Rock Creek? What are your favorite spots to fish with your dad? Let us know in the comments below!

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When fly fishing began, fly fishers only went after trout. However, now enthusiastic fly fishers catch boneheads, tarpon, salmon, and other fish as well. There are many places where one can use one’s skills at presenting a fly or bait to the fish and being honored with a bite. But, some areas are much better than others because of the physical beauty, the clear waters, and the multitude of fish that are available. Here’s our list for the best places to fly fish across the United States.

Magnificent views while fishing along the San Juan River. Photo: Shutterstock / CactusPilot

San Juan River, New Mexico

The San Juan River has plenty of large- and medium-sized trout, ensuring that you can attempt to catch a nine-pounder, or at least land a five pounder. The river has rainbow, brown, and hybrid trout in large numbers. While many fly fishers come here throughout the year, you can still manage to land some fish. Those looking for a more peaceful atmosphere and would like to enjoy the clear waters should plan their fishing in the off-season after Labor Day or in early spring.

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

The entire state of Colorado is crossed by rivers brimming with trout. However, the best location in the state is probably Glenwood Springs, where the Colorado River and the Roaring Fork River join. Plus, other rivers ideal for fly fishing such as the Frying Pan, Eagle River, and Gunnison can be reached and fished in day trips. The town also enjoys an abundance of sunny days – around 300 a year – ensuring that you can enjoy fishing to your heart’s content without having to wait for the sunshine.

Bighorn River, Montana

Fly fishing at the Bighorn River in Montana is a marvelous source for trout, both large and average-sized. The numerous insect hatchings throughout the year attract the trout to this river in large numbers. Plan a trip in fall if you are looking for a less crowded experience or visit in summer and enjoy the companionship of other fly fishing enthusiasts.

You can catch brown trout, such as this one, in the Bighorn River. Photo: Shutterstock / Matt Jeppson

Mountain Home, Arkansas

This town offers plenty of fishing, including some beautiful fly fishing spots for those looking to catch their big trout. The White and Norfolk Rivers are ideal fishing grounds for brown trout. Some record-breaking large trout have been caught here, and you too can expect to catch your big one here.

Traverse City, Michigan

Freshwater fly fishing can be enjoyed at Traverse City, Michigan. From May to October, you can fly fish in Lake Michigan and catch steelhead, salmon, carps, smallmouth, bass, and panfish. The sheer variety of fish in this area will test your skills as a fly fisher and ensure that you rise to the challenge of enticing the fish to bite.

Silver Creek, Idaho

Those looking for a challenging time as they fly fish should head toward Silver Creek, Idaho. While Idaho offers plenty of places for the serious trout fisher such as big Wood, Big Lost, and South Fork, the real challenge is in Silver Creek and Henry’s Fork on Snake River.

Fly fishing at its best in Silver Creek near Silver Creek, ID. Photo: Shutterstock / SavardMontana

Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman is close to Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the U.S. Here you can wade within the high-water mark of the river to cast your fly. (Check out these fly fishing spots near Bozeman). The beauty of the landscape and the clear waters enhance the fly fishing experience. Watch out for bears, though!

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Minocqua, Wisconsin

This town is a stellar fishing community where everyone appears to fish. The locals certainly have plenty of reason to cast their fly as the 70 lakes are full of trout, smallmouth bass, and other fish that attract serious fly fishers each year. It is a fantastic place to enjoy the outdoors and the water.

The Florida Keys

If you are looking for more wary fish that will test your skills and patience, then head toward the Florida Keys for some fly fishing. Enjoy the special charm of the ocean and the warmth that is unique to Florida as you pit your skills against wily bonefish, tarpon, largemouth bass, snook, and redfish. Apart from the saltwater locales, you can also fish in the numerous lakes, ponds, canals, and ditches that are part of the Florida landscape. These freshwater sources also have plenty of bass and other fish that can be tempted with a great fly. Watch out for gators, though!

The Florida Keys offers that special charm. Photo: Shutterstock / The Floridian

Bend, Oregon

The town of Bend in Oregon attracts anglers and fly fishers as Deschutes River provides three different sections for fishing. In the upper reaches, you will find the sleeper brown trout. In the middle, you will come across the rainbow trout, while in the lower reaches, one can catch the steelhead. The rivers and lakes in the region offer a variety of fishing locales that ensure that you can face a new challenge each day of your stay here.

Go Out & Fish!

Fly fishing can be a constructive hobby since it ensures that you spend time outdoors pitting your skills and knowledge against Mother Nature in an attempt to catch a fish. With fly fishing, you will be able to enjoy a combination of stillness, sun, and water.

Read Next:
The First-Timer’s Guide To Fly Fishing
Favorite Fall Patterns For Fly Fishing Western Streams In The U.S.

What are your favorite places to fly fish? Let us know in the comments below!

Updated April 2020 to include additional links and photographs

Ullapool on the shores of Loch Broom is one of the main tourist spots in Ross-shire in the Scottish Highlands. It’s a popular haunt for hill walkers as the area close by is largely mountainous with some inspiring views. The town is also at the mouth of the river Ullapool with sizeable stocks of sea trout and salmon. In a season, the river can yield between 60 and 70 salmon, and although you will need a permit, the best source is near Moss Bridge on its lower reaches.

Ullapool itself is renowned as a fishing centre. Not far from the town, at Elphin, you’ll find the Highland School of Fly Fishing. No matter your skill or experience, they’ll supply the right type of instruction for you in some of Scotland’s most dramatic scenery. If you’ve ever thought of combining tuition with a vacation, the school provides private guided fly fishing trips and courses. No need to break the bank either as your fishing tackle and tuition is included in one convenient package. For full details call 01854-666-334.

Take a short trip north from Ullapool and you’ll find Assynt and its famous – and countless – limestone lochs. This part of the Highlands is magical with stunning scenery and plenty of choice areas for landing that prized catch. Salmon and trout, some weighing up to six pounds are often caught, but be prepared, these guys don’t give up easily.

The biggest loch in the region is Loch Assynt – six miles long and more than 260 feet deep. It’s also known to get quite blustery, but as its shore and bays yield the best catches, a windy day shouldn’t be too much of a problem. Although fishing on the loch is not permitted on a Sunday, the remainder of the week should be sufficient as both salmon and sea trout are plentiful. The smallest, and possibly the most scenic, is Loch Awe. If you like the idea of combining your fly fishing trip with some island hopping, this loch is ideal. Despite its size – just one mile long – yields are good.

Another large loch in this scattered group is Veyatie. It’s four miles in length and steep-sided. The distinctive peaks of Cul Mor and Suilven are an awesome sight. Head for the north shore if you want the best results. Brown trout of varying sizes are quite common if you can take your eyes off the spectacular scenery.

Fly fishing and scenery aside, Ullapool has no shortage of accommodation. The Blacksmith’s Cottage is close to all the town’s attractions and offers B&B or self catering. Its quaint and traditional white wash and warm welcome makes the cottage, like Ullapool, an ideal spot for a short family break. For booking details call 01854-613-049.

Fall brings some of the years best fly fishing on western rivers. The cooler temperatures make for active and feisty trout. Carrying the right patterns will help prevent the frustration of going fishless and allow you to take full advantage of the great fishing.

Hoppers

A well-known guide on one of Oregon’s most technical rivers known for containing some of the West’s most picky and difficult big trout once told me that even they, “get real stooopid during hopper season.” Trout are junkies for grasshoppers.

A normally graceful and calculated animal that feeds daintily on fancy little flies from the surface film casts aside all restraint and suddenly becomes a gluttonous fiend. The trout on hoppers is sporadic, unpredictable and violent. Even lethargic fish sulking at the bottom of a deep hole will throw all caution to the wind and explode to the surface to smash a hopper. This general abandonment spells some of the year’s most exciting fishing for anglers.

Grasshopper patterns usually become relevant in August and can often be fished well into October and though the main action slows down a few days after the season’s first hard freeze it may continue on for a couple weeks if you’re fortunate.

For Hopper patterns I prefer the foam materials to the traditional deer hair. Foam is more buoyant and durable. A foam hopper will sit upright in the water even after being chewed on by a big brown. They are also easier to spot, especially important when serving dual purpose as an indicator on a hopper/dropper set up (more on this to come).

I’ve never found color to be especially important with hopper patterns, but as a rule of thumb try to land somewhere in the ballpark most of the time. Carrying several colors including yellow, tan, brown, and green will ensure you’ve covered your bases.

Patterns will generally fall in the eight- to 12-size range. For a more accurate measurement you could try to capture a live one on the shoreline. Good luck! These quick critters will usually get the best of you. The wiser idea would be to call the local fly shop and get the correct size—you’ll be glad you did.

Foam Hoppers are proven troutslayers in late summer and fall.

Now that you’ve selected the right hopper, tie it to a seven- to nine-foot leader that tapers to 3X (if you think the fish are going to be leader shy then go with 4X). You normally want it on the heavier side for hopper fishing, especially when using a dropper. From the hook bend of the hopper, or the hook eye, tie an 18- to 24-inch piece of tippet 4-5X for the dropper.

The length of tippet leading to the dropper depends on the depth of the river or stream you are fishing. Remember you’ll most often want your nymph to be at, or very near, the bottom. The dropper itself will usually be a small general nymph (Pheasant Tail or Hare’s Ear) unless the fish are keying in on a specific bug, then of course use that. With this set up your hopper now serves as both a fishable fly and an indicator for your Nymph. Now simply cast out the hopper/dropper rig across and upstream, and watch it drift along with the current. If at any time during the drift the hopper stops, twitches, or commits any other tomfoolery, then set the hook.  It’s likely a fish that has taken your nymph. Sometimes your dropper has simply bumped a rock or is hooked on some (not so fishy) subsurface, but it’s always worth setting the hook just in case. Some days you’ll take more fish on the dropper and some days more on the hopper, and in the ideal scenario you’ll hook two fish at the same time.

Tricos

Big Browns become active in the fall.

In the dim light of evening fish are boiling the water surface all around you. With the lowered visibility it’s hard to tell what they are feeding on. Upon closer inspection you detect some very small gnat looking flies. Swarms of microscopic black dots hover and swirl just above the surface while the water itself has countless others floating along. You’re standing in the middle of a Trico hatch. Tricos are a main staple of the fall trout diet, and the fish are slurping them up by the mouthfuls as they drift vulnerably in the current. Tricos are tiny mayflies; males are black and typically hatch later in the day, while females are white or cream and normally hatch in the mornings. Tricos are sometimes so small it’s hard to believe trout actually feed selectively on them, but their massive numbers make it a worthwhile food source for fish.

Trico patterns range from small to smaller.

Nymph patterns to imitate Tricos don’t require much sophistication. Nearly any tiny black or cream nymph will usually do the trick. When nymphing with Trico patterns I typically fish a two fly set which utilizes a bigger point or lead fly (size 10-14) ,often displaying a bead head or some flash to draw a fish’s attention. The point fly lures the fish in and as the flies drift along they’ll quickly find the smaller Trico nymph trailing right in front of their nose, which should trigger a strike.

For dry fly patterns a small Griffiths Gnat, or any small midge pattern will work well. Barr Emerges fished just under the surface also produce. When fishing the surface with Trico imitations you’ll want to get the fly directly in the fish’s feeding lane. Too far to one side or another and the fish will likely never see your imitation, especially during a thick hatch. The average Trico hatch is usually so plentiful that trout won’t make any side to side movement to find and capture the flies, simply because they won’t need to.

Tippet for Tricos must be light – no stronger than 5X. Anything heavier in diameter and you’ll have difficulty threading it through the small eye of the hook. Unfortunately, light tippet usually leads to breaking off flies, so bring plenty. When playing fish use smooth, even pressure as sudden jerks and excessive tension on 6X tippet will cause the heartbreak of one lost fish after another. If you’re fishing the evening hatch you’ll want to keep a headlamp with you. Trying to tie on one of these tiny patterns during full light can be tricky enough, trying to tie one on in the dark after the loss of a massive fish, with shaky hands, can be quite challenging indeed.

October Caddis

Talk about a festive bug. The October Caddis contains a bright orange that meshes incredibly well with the color spectrum of autumn. This relatively large caddis provides fish an excellent opportunity to bulk up on calories before winter. Trout key in on this biological advantage and oftentimes feed exclusively on this insect when they are abundant.

September and October are mating season for the October Caddis. The now matured bug leaves the water and takes cover in the streamside vegetation to begin the process. A few days later the females will return to the water to lay their eggs. Clumsy egg layers, the females flutter and bounce sporadically on the surface, enticing nearby trout and drawing aggressive strikes.

Fish the October Caddis nymph dead drift in the current so it will tumble along the rocks as a natural one would. If you’re fishing a dry it won’t hurt to twitch the fly once in awhile as it drifts along. Sometimes the twitch is all that’s needed to provoke an otherwise hesitant trout to grab your fly.

Patterns for the October Caddis vary. I have always found that simple is typically better, especially with nymphs. Usually an orange dubbed body with a brown hackle collar is enough.

A large orange Stimulator makes a fine October Caddis Pattern

For the dry you’ll want to try a large elk hair Caddis in Orange or Stimulator pattern, but you can usually get away with an orange stonefly pattern in the right size. Fish the nymph on a seven- to eight-foot leader tapered to 4X and the dry on a nine- to 10-foot leader tapered to 5X. Remember these recommendations are just general suggestions – always adjust your set up to match what your fishing situation calls for.

General Patterns

There are some tried and true patterns that work year around, and fall is no exception. A fly angler would be wise to carry the following patterns and fish them faithfully: Hare’s Ear sizes 10 to 18, Pheasant Tail sizes 12 to 20, Birds Nest

It’s always good to consult the local fly shop, especially if you are fishing new and unfamiliar waters. This will save you time and help put you on fish quickly.

Grassy meadow streams and rivers often hold an abundance of insects and fish.

For more than 18 miles, concrete and steel columns holding up Interstate 10 between Baton Rouge and Lafayette in Louisiana rise out of a swamp. Not just any wetland, but the Atchafalaya River Basin Swamp, which covers a third of the total landmass of Louisiana. The Atchafalaya what? Unless you’re from Louisiana, you’ve probably never heard of the Atchafalaya Swamp. Still, it is the largest lowland region saturated with water existing in the United States.

The Atchafalaya Basin is not a lake but a river’s overflow that’s contained between two levees. A distributary of the Red and Mississippi rivers, the Atchafalaya River branches southwest from the Red River in east-central Louisiana and flows south 140 miles to Atchafalaya Bay on the Gulf of Mexico. The name is a Choctaw Indian word translated as “Long River”. Actually the truth is, for the volume of water it carries, the Atchafalaya is one of the shortest and most significant rivers in the world.

Snowy Egrets are seen often in the Swamp. As are…

History

For hundreds of years, people of American Indian, African, Caribbean, French, Latino, European and American descent have lived in and interacted with one another throughout the region. As far back as 2500 years ago, American Indians lived in the area, which features Indian mound sites and villages dating from around 700 to 1700 AD. American Indians concentrated their villages on high natural levees of the river and large bayous, living off fish, reptiles, and mammals.

The Chitimacha tribe has the longest historical association with the area. In 1650, the Chitimacha had a population in the Atchafalaya Basin of some 4,000 people.

In 1812, President Thomas Jefferson sent Captain Amos Stoddard to explore the Louisiana coastal plain, including the Atchafalaya Basin. Stoddard was one of the first explorers to describe the string of lakes and bayous that lace together the Atchafalaya Swamp.

That swamp was heavily logged from about 1890 to 1915, after which logging was banned. Deteriorating cypress stumps standing like tombstones dot the Atchafalaya Swamp today about as far as the eye can see.

This is one of the most biologically diverse places in North America. It’s also one of the most engineered landscapes in the world with canals and levees seemingly everywhere.

Development of an important floodway started after the disastrous Mississippi River flood of 1927, when the U.S. Congress stated: “This will not happen again.” That’s when the Mississippi River began being leveed in earnest. As part of that project the Atchafalaya River Basin Floodway was created. That Basin became the main distributary of the lower Mississippi, designed to take half of the Mississippi River’s flow during a major flood. In spite of all the engineering that’s gone on in the system–the place is still one million acres of continuous almost unbroken wetland habitat. It’s significantly engineered but yet at the same time remains wild.

Completed in 1963, what’s known as the Old River Control Structure near Simmesport, Louisiana prevents the Mississippi River’s current from joining the Atchafalaya’s. Today the Atchafalaya River receives water from the Red River and from that portion of the Mississippi that is diverted through the Old River Structure. The Atchafalaya Basin Swamp is larger than the Okefenokee Swamp of Georgia and Florida. It constitutes an immense natural floodplain of the Atchafalaya River.

What to Do

…Great Blue Herons

The Atchafalaya Basin can be divided into three distinct vegetative types: (A) Bottomland hardwoods, (B) Cypress-tupelo swamp, and (c) Coastal marsh. Hardwoods are located in the northern part. The central area s the home of many bald cypress trees. This is that part of the Atchafalaya Basin that has the “swamp image” most frequently associated with the Atchafalaya.

In (B), coastal marsh trees are not present, providing a feeling of openness. The tree line between swamp and marsh is frequently the location for wildlife such as Bald Eagles. Alligators are found in all three areas but are more frequently seen in bottomland areas and in the coastal marsh. Lack of land for nesting purposes severely limits the alligator population in the cypress swamp.

Some of America’s best outdoor recreation is found in the swamps, lazy bayous and hardwood forests of the Atchafalaya Basin Floodplain. Hunters, anglers, bird watchers, hikers, paddlers, bicyclists and others enjoy unique wilderness experiences year-round.

Many anglers in the Atchafalaya Swamp seek Largemouth Bass.

The Atchafalaya Basin is the most popular fishing area in Louisiana. It supports large populations of Largemouth Bass, Spotted Bass, White Bass, Striped Bass, Crappie (known locally as sac-a-lait), Sunfish (Bream), Catfish, and Freshwater Drum (gasper-gou). Anglers often catch large numbers of fish in the Basin, especially when water levels are falling. Blue crabs, shrimp and crawfish are harvested both recreationally and commercially in the Basin.

The region’s warm climate provides a fostering environment for a host of plants and wildlife species. The North American otter is a frequently seen mammal. This species is found in many wetland areas of the state, including the Atchafalaya Basin. When fully mature, river otters are three to four feet in length.

The Louisiana Black Bear is a subspecies of the North American Black Bear and is found in swampy areas throughout southern Louisiana. Once an abundant species, the Louisiana Back Bear’s population has declined due to over-hunting and habitat destruction.

Among the birds to be seen here are Roseate Spoonbills, which have pink-colored feathers and a green head. The color of the bird’s feathers comes from the large quantities of shrimp that it eats. Shrimp are a vital part of the Spoonbill’s diet.

One of the more common trees seen in the Atchafalaya River Basin, the Bald Cypress is a coniferous tree that does not lose its foliage in the winter. Bald cypresses dwell in or close to the water’s edge. They can reach heights of 130 feet. Water tupelo trees are found in swampy areas throughout the Basin. Roots of this tree are often submerged in water.

Canoeing/Kayaking in the Atchafalaya Basin

Head out for a day of paddling under live oaks dripping with Spanish moss, through cypress tree forests in the swamp. Watch graceful egrets and roseate spoonbills take wing while glimpsing an alligator slide into the water. There’s no better snapshot of the Atchafalaya’s bounty than that taken from the water. For expert guidance while paddling, contact Bayou Teche Experience, Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, tel. 337-366-0337. Also, Oxbow Paddle Company, 6716 False River Road, Oscar, Louisiana, tel. 225-485-8999.

A fishing scene in the Atchafalaya Swamp Basin.

Visitors exploring the Atchafalaya Basin today experience a wilderness that looks much like it did when European settlers arrived here 300 years ago. The Atchafalaya is considered by biologists and zoologists to be the most fertile swamp in the world and perhaps the most productive land in the Northern Hemisphere. It is considered to be more alive biologically than the Everglades and the Okefenokee Swamp. The Atchafalaya is a natural resource that deserves the same national attention to its preservation as the Everglades has received.

Remember when visiting here: regardless of the season, the Atchafalaya River Swamp is definitely not the place for someone who is unwilling to appreciate MUD. Many ecologists and environmentalists argue, mud is the best topsoil of the continent. Keep that fact in mind when visiting America’s distinctive foreign country.

Call me biased, but the climate in my home county of Devon is ideal for venturing into the great outdoors. There is also the added bonus of glorious scenery. On a peaceful summer afternoon, there are fewer pastimes more relaxing than fly fishing. To that end, Blakewell, near Barnstaple, is hard to beat. A fresh water lake, fed by an Exmoor spring. Established 30 years ago, its one objective was to provide the ultimate fly fishing experience in an idyllic location. The result has been a resounding success.

The lake covers five acres and its main resource is trout. Stacks of them. No need to worry about flies either as damsel and sedges are found in abundance. The lake’s shoreline couldn’t be better for back casting and because its stock is constant, landing that prized catch is virtually guaranteed. Remember to bring a sizeable landing net because the trout have been known to reach up to 20 lbs. No need to worry if you’re a complete novice, Blakewell will also provide fly fishing tuition – by arrangement – for £35 per hour including all tackle.

Family groups with young children are more than welcome at Blakewell’s Family Pond. Whether feeding the trout or catching some in the children’s lake, it’s educational but most of all, it’s fun. Entry to the Family Pond is free, and any trout caught will be cleaned and packed for you to take home. For more details, go to www.blakewell.co.uk or call 01271-344533.

Blakewell’s Pond Shop is a great place to visit for those essential garden pond supplies. Goldfish and koi are stocked as well as liners pumps and filters. If you’re in need of help or information, the Pond Shop staff will be more than happy. The Farm Shop carries probably the best rainbow trout in the county, freshly caught from the lake. Add to this a wide selection of fresh produce and you are guaranteed healthy additions to your larder. The Farm Shop is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week.

If you are planning a break near Blakewell, superb accommodation is on offer. The self-catering holiday cottages at Combrew Farm have built an international reputation for comfort and relaxation. They cater for short and long-term breaks for parties and family groups large and small. Their on-site facilities include sauna, indoor pool, badminton and tennis courts as well as an adventure playground for the kids. The centrally heated cottages have wood burners, and with double glazing, outside temperatures don’t matter. Accommodation is available year round, but it’s recommended guests book early. For details and booking information call 01271-373834.

Courtyard Cottage near Barnstaple is a delightful self-catering accommodation featuring a huge log burning open fire. The cottage is an annexe to the farmhouse at Plaistow Barton and can be rented for short or weekly breaks. You’re only two miles away from Blakewell and close to the wilds of Exmoor – ideal for hiking. After a hard day’s hiking or fishing, what could be better than relaxing in front of the cottage’s log fire or sampling some southwestern hospitality at the nearby Muddiford Inn Restaurant – a one time coaching inn. Whatever your choice, you are guaranteed a warm north Devon welcome. Courtyard Cottage is available year round. www.plaistowbarton.co.uk has more details.

There’s no denying it. British Columbia yields some of the Pacific Northwest’s best areas to reel in that elusive catch. Whether saltwater or freshwater fishing, the region always comes up ahead. And while you wait for the fish to bite, you have the opportunity to take in the beautiful BC scenery.

Serene fishing in BC. Photo: Shutterstock / Ivan_Sabo

 Fishing In The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Of British Columbia

Located almost 4 hours northeast of Vancouver, the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region offers 8,000 beautiful lakes that are excellent for fishing year-round. Here are a few options to consider:

Bridge Lake

One of the lakes in this region of BC is Bridge Lake, located along the Fishing Highway, which a 100 km (62 mi) stretch of Highway 24 that passes some of the best fishing lakes in BC.

Bridge Lake stretches for around 6.5 km (4 mi), and you can land lake trout, kokanee, and rainbow trout weighing-in from four pounds to as much as 20 pounds.

Bridge Lake also offers some excellent trails in the area for hiking and horseback riding, so feel free to pair activities. You can choose to paddle Bridge Lake as well.

To find Bridge Lake, travel south on Highway 97 from 100 Mile House, to the junction of Highway 24. Bridge Lake lies almost 30 miles (48 km) east along this picturesque route.

Canim Lake

If you choose to head north on Highway 97 from 100 Mile House, just eastwards on the Forest Grove road, you’ll discover Canim Lake and some of the best fly-fishing in the area.

This lake is a vast stretch of water, 24 miles (over 38 km) long, with Canim Lake Resort on its southwestern shore. In the resort’s many lakes, trout are in abundance, some weighing up to 30 pounds. Look out for bald eagles and moose as you while away the hours.

Canim Lake is also great for ice fishing in the winter. Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Koltonsmith

Bouchie Lake

In late May to October, try your hand at catching pan-sized rainbow trout in Bouchie Lake, located west of Quesnel and across the Fraser River. The paved Nazko road will take you there, with boat launch access through Norwood Road.

Quesnel Lake

Located about 3 hours southeast of Quesnel along the western border of Cariboo Mountains Provincial Park is Quesnel Lake. Fish for rainbow trout and other lake trout in this glacial lake, which is also the deepest lake in BC.

Fraser River

For some of the best angling in the region, head for the Fraser River. Salmon is the prized catch, and the reason is simple. Five out of the six Pacific salmon species spawn in the Fraser River and its tributaries. But salmon isn’t the only reason for venturing into its swift current.

Steelhead, cut-throat, and rainbow trout are found in the silty waters along with sturgeon and Rocky Mountain whitefish. In some areas, the river flows fast, and it’s recommended to have a commercial fishing guide for anyone unfamiliar with the river. Any local tackle store will help you find a guide.

Fish for salmon on the Fraser River near Quesnel, British Columbia. Photo: Shutterstock / Wayne Stadler

For some fantastic fishing experiences in the Fraser Valley near Vancouver, give Great River Fishing Adventures near Chilliwack a try. The scenic splendours of the region will lift your fishing experience to new heights, and the knowledgeable guides will help you seek out the best spots to land that dream catch.

Read More: Rafting British Columbia: A Summer Bucket List Requirement

Stay For Fishing Adventures In British Columbia

If you’re thinking of a more extended visit, the Cariboo Chilcotin region offers plenty of options to stay and fish.  Remote mountain lakes, rivers, and streams in a vast area of seclusion will fulfill every fisherman’s dream. Also, the scenery will leave you lost for words.

Chilcotin Holidays

Try fly fishing and spin casting with a licensed angling guide from Chilcotin Holidays, who will show you the best areas to fish for brook trout, wild rainbow trout, kokanee, and Dolly Varden.

Minette Bay Lodge

For the more adventurous, the Minette Bay Lodge is ideal. The resort offers the ultimate outdoor adventure – helicopter fly fishing. You’ll be flown to one of BC’s renowned salmon rivers, to spend the day in gainful pursuit amidst the glorious scenery and peaceful seclusion.

Shearwater Resort

The Shearwater Resort and Marina on BC’s west coast is virtually a self-contained community. It includes laundry facilities, a grocery store, a hardware and liquor store, and a repair shipyard. The resort also provides fishing licenses and tackle.

The Shearwater Resort also offers saltwater sport fishing. King salmon and chinook, sometimes topping 72 pounds, will give you plenty of prized photo opportunities. Ample “bottom fish” are also available, including red snapper, rockfish, and lingcod. Whatever your preference, Shearwater has an ideal spot for you.

If conditions are calm enough, boat trips to the open ocean for halibut, sometimes weighing up to 200 pounds,  are also offered. The resort gives you a choice to “do it yourself” or have one of the best-guided sport fishing experiences in British Columbia.

Go Fishing In British Columbia

The scenery, the peace, tranquility, and the chance to sit and think are unbeatable. British Columbia has plenty of those wide-open spaces when it comes to landing that prized catch.

Have you been fishing in British Columbia or along the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast? What’s your favorite spot? Let us know in the comments below!

Read Next:
Fishing Guide For Beginners: Catching Your First Fish
The Best Places For Fly Fishing In The U.S.
Top 5: World’s Best Rivers For Whitewater Rafting

Article updated with additional information on May 22, 2020