Hi and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 25th of April 2023.
Trees are starting to bud and birds are returning from their wintering grounds to greet this incredible spring that were having. As the days continue to grow longer the local waters are warming up and the fish are biting! Here’s what’s happening…
Sturgeon:
With the days getting longer and the warmer weather the Fraser River water levels have finally bumped up. It seams that we’re in store for an early freshet and will most likely be seeing a slow and gradual increase of water levels for the next 6-8 weeks. Keep in mind that even though the water has bumped and muddied up, the river is still low and boat operators need to be more vigilant than ever as many gravel bars are now only barely submerged. Also, with the high water comes allot of debris and anyone angling from an anchored boat really needs to keep an eye up stream to ensure that you don’t get run over by a floating log. Fishing lines will need to be cleaned more often as well, at least every 20 minutes to make sure that the bait is not covered up.
With the waters levels up and warming, fish are starting to move into shallower depths than they we’re in the late winter. This spring movement will typically spread the fish out somewhat and one is best served to keep moving trying different anchor drops, remember moving 50 feet can sometimes make the difference. Rule of thumb: if you haven’t had a bite in 45 minutes pick up the anchor and move, at least a little.
The annual Eulachon run is in the system and fish are still very much keyed in on this oily baitfish. They continue to be the bait of choice for those fishing around the mouth of the Vedder and downstream. Around Chilliwack and upstream try lamprey, coarse fish and salmon eggs, having said that it’s still a good idea to run at least one rod with eulachon as the fish have been keying in on them at times.
For those fishing the lower Fraser River please be aware that there is still an eulachon Food, Social and Ceremonial fishery for the First Nations in the area. We ask that you are mindful of their space and respect their efforts to harvest the remainder of their quota. Please make way for them and help share the river and the resources.
With the Frasers waters coming up we find ourselves on the door step of the much anticipated Fraser Canyon sturgeon season. In fact the fishing has been ultra-steady with good numbers of fish coming on most every outing thus far. If you are thinking of running this special piece of water keep in mind that is very “heavy” water and not for the timid or unexperienced jet boater. Please be very careful!! The canyon is a high water fishery and the sturgeon haunts are not always obvious as the water levels tend to hide the really good spots. If you’re interested in trying your hand at biggest of the big in one of the most spectacular venue’s in the world drop us a line and he’ll be more than happy to help organize one of our Ultimate Fraser Canyon Sturgeon trips with you. info@greatriverfishing.com
Pitt River Trout Fishing
With this warm weather are attentions starts to drift towards late spring and early summer and the fishing opportunities to be had. The Upper Pitt River is one of these special fisheries and for good reason, big bull trout living in one of the prettiest places around. The beginning of May starts this special fishery and it continues through the summer but having said that typically the best Bull Trout fishing is during freshet. No explanation why, just know that the numbers do not lie. Bigger fish and numbers. Great River Fishing Adventures guides have many years’ experience fishing the Upper Pitt River watershed and are knowledgeable about the area and effective techniques to target all species. As Jet Boats and experienced boat handling skills are required to access and fish this river, you rarely see other anglers, and more importantly this area is not over fished. It is truly an adventure that is easily accessible within a day from Vancouver. For a free personalized quote please drop us an email at info@greatriverfishing.com
NOW OPEN!! Fraser Canyon Riverside Domes
These 2 Geodesic Domes are the ultimate headquarters to your Fraser Canyon sturgeon fishing adventure! Nestled onto an amazing piece of property right on the banks of the mighty Fraser River near Yale BC, it is ideally situated for the outdoor enthusiast, angler and nature lover looking to get away and enjoy what the Fraser Canyon has to offer. Boasting over a thousand feet of riverfront your guide will pick and drop you off via jet boat for an amazing day up the highly scenic Fraser Canyon chasing some of the largest sturgeon in the world. Check out a short video about the Fraser Canyon Riverside Domes.
These state of the art geodesic domes represent the new standard for all things “glamping”. Handsomely appointed and offering all the luxuries of home these structures and surrounding property will leave you breathless. Stargaze from inside your dome and enjoy 550 square feet of living space heated with a propane fireplace, as well as air conditioned to achieve your maximum comfort level. Enjoy the wood burning cedar hot tub next to the river and take full advantage of the massive deck with a unique fire table and BBQ to enjoy your favorite cuisine. Then end your day next to a cozy fire in the beautifully created pit with wood provided (not in fire season). For more info or to find out availability please reach out to Alyssa at info@greatriverfishing.com
OPENING SOON!! Fraser Canyon Teepee Escape
What an awesome way to relax and unwind after pitting your muscle and mind against the all mighty white sturgeon. Dates are dwindling fast for this summer and many weekend are now full. If you’re at all interested, don’t delay, drop us a line today.
These Teepee’s are located on the banks of the Fraser Canyon near Yale BC and offer a truly unique experience for those wishing to do a little “Glamping” in style. Guides can pick you up right from your personal river bank steps away from the teepees and drop you off again after a fun filled day of chasing dinosaurs in one of the most scenic river stretches in BC. Or spend the day exploring the incredible countryside and rich history of the Fraser Canyon and its importance during the Gold Rush of 1858 and First Nation culture and history. These teepees are your base camp for your next outdoor adventure!
With the popularity of these accommodations increasing constantly we have managed to add even more to the experience! The 20′ Teepee now has a stand alone rustic covered outdoor kitchen and bathroom with all the goodies to along with it, including a large deck with fire table overlooking the river.
By moving the kitchen outside we added plenty of space to the interior of this teepee. This teepee is now set up the same as the 26 footer with a king bed and a daybed with trundle (2 regular sized twin beds). This is the ultimate canyon get away for those looking to add to their fishing adventure or just wanting to take in what the historic Fraser Canyon has to offer.
We’ve also added a small teepee for kids looking to get away from their parents… or maybe the other way around. This little teepee is a down scaled version just the right size for children to have their own glamping experience. To have a closer look at the Teepees Click Here For more info or to find out availability please reach out to us at info@greatriverfishing.com
That’s it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…
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