Hi There! and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 4th of August 2026.
August has arrived! There’s no better time to get out on the water while the weather is beautiful and the fish are in the mood. As the month progresses and the days begin to shorten, fish instinctively know that fall is approaching and they become increasingly aggressive. Here’s what’s happening out there…
Great River Fishing Adventures is proud to host the 10th Annual Jurassic Classic Sturgeon Fundraiser from August 21-23.
It’s hard to believe it’s been a decade since this fundraiser was first conceived, and it’s truly remarkable what has been accomplished over the years.
Through the combined efforts of the The Wild Sheep Society of BC, Guide Outfitters Association of BC and the N. America Wild Sheep Foundation, this incredible event has raised both awareness and much needed funding for the conservation of British Columbia’s wild sheep.
This year’s event promises to be one of the best yet, with excellent weather, prime river conditions, and an outstanding group of like minded people coming together for a truly worthwhile cause. Two unforgettable days of rod bending sturgeon fishing are paired with evening banquets, barbecues, and great company, making this event the perfect blend of incredible fishing and lasting camaraderie all while helping keep wild sheep on our mountains.
We would like to welcome all participants, volunteers, and sponsors, and wish everyone the very best of luck for a safe, successful, and memorable weekend
Please keep in mind that with the abundance of salmon this season, First Nations FSC (Food, Social and Ceremonial) fisheries have begun and will continue into early September.
We encourage everyone on the water to be respectful and considerate during these openings. Maintaining positive relationships between the First Nations and the recreational fishing community is paramount. By showing respect and sharing the resource responsibly, we help ensure the long term sustainability of these incredible fisheries for future generations to enjoy.
STURGEON:
We’re seeing some absolute giants right now! The sheer size and power of the fish coming to the boat has been astounding. If you’ve been waiting for a shot at a true trophy sturgeon, now is the time.
The Fraser River is currently in prime condition. Water that was simply too fast to fish only a few weeks ago has begun to slow, opening up more productive water every day. As the river continues to drop, additional holding water becomes accessible, the traditional “holes” become larger and easier to fish, and sturgeon begin spreading throughout the available slack water.
For anglers, this means mobility is key. Don’t hesitate to move around even a move of 100 feet can be the difference between waiting and hooking into the fish of a lifetime.
With dropping water levels, numerous gravel bars are beginning to emerge above the mouth of the Vedder River. Boaters, especially those running prop driven boats, should use extra caution when navigating these areas.
The Fraser also has a healthy number of salmon entering the system. Although the salmon fishery remains closed at the moment (that could change soon, see below), the sturgeon are beginning to shift their attention toward salmon roe and salmon parts. That said, don’t abandon the tried and true summer baits. Lamprey, dew worms, and coarse fish continue to produce excellent results, and every day seems to bring a different preference.
The Fraser Canyon continues to produce outstanding numbers along with exceptional sized fish. Water levels are dropping quickly, allowing more productive water to become available, and fishing has remained incredibly consistent with above average fish coming on virtually every charter.
If you’re considering fishing this incredible stretch of river, remember that the Fraser Canyon is powerful water and is not for inexperienced jet boat operators. Exercise extreme caution. The Canyon is primarily a high water fishery, and many of the best sturgeon holding areas are hidden beneath the current until you know exactly where to look.
If you’ve always wanted to target the biggest sturgeon in one of the most breathtaking fisheries on earth, our Ultimate Fraser Canyon Sturgeon Trips offer a truly unforgettable experience.
Contact us at info@greatriverfishing.com and we’ll help you plan the fishing trip of a lifetime.
“Richard Boyd, hailing from Texas, visits us every year to fish the canyon and is seen here with some his 2026 catches. Center pic is his personal longest fish taping out an impressive 117 inches (9′ 9″) fork length with the other fish pictured both reaching into the 8 foot mark. Wow, some true beauties… Congrats Richard!!”
BOOK YOUR 2026 STURGEON ADVENTURE NOW!! 604-792-3544
What better way to spend a summer day than relaxing in a comfortable covered jet boat while waiting for that next heart stopping bite from the almighty sturgeon!
With limited fishing pressure on the river right now, this is an excellent time of year to get out and experience these true dinosaurs of the deep. The action has been steady, the scenery spectacular, and every trip carries the possibility of battling a giant.
We offer both half and full day jet boat adventures featuring top quality tackle, experienced professional guides, and a commitment to making your day as safe, comfortable, and enjoyable as possible.
Whether you’re looking for an action packed adventure or a laid back day on the water with family and friends, we’ll tailor the trip to your style.
Big fish. Beautiful scenery. Unforgettable memories.
Call or email today and let’s get you on the water! info@greatriverfishing.com
WE ARE READY TO TOUR!! GRFA would like to announce that we have a NEW boat strictly for touring the river. This behemoth 28 footer is powered by twin inboards and can take on 22 passengers. From eagle watching to canyon crawling. These private, scenic and historical tours typically will last around 2.5 hours and are fantastic for corporate and large groups looking for a unique experience.
For more info check out https://greatriverfishing.com/jet-boat-river-tours/
Call or email today for pricing and availability 604-792-3544 or info@greatriverfishing.com
UPPER PITT RIVER: REMOTE WILDERNESS FISHING
The Upper Pitt continues to fluctuate with changing temperatures. Being a glacier fed river, warm weather quickly raises water levels, while cooler temperatures bring it down just as fast.
Fishing has been somewhat day to day, with fresh waves of fish arriving every few days. The fish have been well scattered throughout the system, making it important to stay mobile and cover water.
For fly anglers, fast sinking tips paired with leech style streamers in a variety of colours continue to be highly effective. Having said that, it’s still hard to beat the classic spoon and spin combination, which remains absolutely deadly this time of year.
If you’re planning your first trip to the Upper Pitt, remember that access is by boat only. Running this river safely requires considerable experience behind the wheel of a jet boat, as conditions can change quickly and be unforgiving.
The river has changed dramatically since last season and will continue to evolve throughout the summer. This is true wilderness, where help can be a long way away, so always make safety your first priority.
Our guides at Great River Fishing Adventures have spent years learning every corner of the Upper Pitt watershed and know exactly where to find fish consistently. Because access requires specialized jet boats and experienced operators, fishing pressure remains extremely light.
The reward is untouched water, spectacular scenery, wild fish, and an authentic wilderness fishing experience withofut the crowds.
Best of all, this world class adventure is only a day trip from Vancouver.
There’s only a few weeks left for this fishery!! If you’d like a free personalized quote, email us at info@greatriverfishing.com and let’s get your next adventure on the calendar!
POTENTIAL HUGE SOCKEYE RUN FOR 2026 BOOK NOW!!
We would like to take a moment and talk about what we’re in store for this summer. Last year we were blessed with an abnormal amount of Sockeye Salmon returning in the month of August. This allowed for a surprise sport angling opportunity on the Fraser River… Well this year is the 4 year high in the Sockeye cycle and current projections are upwards of 15 million fish!!! This should once again allow for a sport fishing opportunity and most likely we will be open towards the end of August and into September. We are super excited about this and are already starting to see anglers that are in the know booking dates in anticipation. If your at all interested in getting in on the action please do not hesitate to reach out to us for more info or possible dates. info@greatriverfishing.com
IMPORTANT! Support the Canadian ownership, Public Right to Fish and Priority Access to Salmon
We would like to take a moment to discuss a federal policy change that will undermine sportfishing in BC. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) is under pressure to eliminate the principle of Common Property Resource from its Salmon Allocation Policy. Removing this principle from the policy would represent a radical shift that could undermine the rights of Canadians, create uncertainty around the ownership of a common property resource, and disrupt the effective management of the salmon fishery.
ARE YOU CANADIAN? DO YOU BELIEVE THAT:
- Salmon are a Common Property Resource belonging to all Canadians
- Salmon must be referred to as a Common Property Resource in the Salmon Allocation Policy
- The Public Right to Fish must be referred to in the Salmon Allocation Policy
- Recreational sector priority access to Chinook and Coho must be maintained after conservation and before the commercia! sector
….THEN PLEASE SIGN THIS PETITION! and SHARE, SHARE, SHARE!
What else can you do?
Reach out to your local MPs, call them, stop in, speak to them, and write emails. Also, call or email the Federal Fisheries Minister, the Honourable Joanne Thompson, and let her know this is NOT how we want her to manage OUR Canadian Common Property Resource. Ask her to keep the SAP as status quo, and just add the IRB fishery (Indigenous Rights Based) right underneath the FSC fishery (Food, Social, Ceremonial) in the ranking within the policy AND leave the rest the same.
…remember #wefish #wehunt #WEVOTE
FRASER CANYON RIVERSIDE DOMES
This is the time to book your 2026 vacation and avoid missing out on all that the stunning Fraser Canyon has to offer. Whether it be a fishing trip of a lifetime or perhaps just a cozy weekend get away, now is the time to drop us a line and avoid disappointment, you’ll be glad you did. info@greatriverfishing.com
These 2 Geodesic Domes are the ultimate headquarters to your Fraser Canyon outdoor 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, anglers 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 you up 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. Enjoy 550 square feet of living space heated with a propane fireplace 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
FRASER RIVER LODGE – BOOK YOUR 2026 STAYCATIONS TODAY
From large corporate events to single person stays, the lodge can handle all your needs. Combining Great River Fishing Adventures’ exceptional team and professional guiding services with Fraser River Lodge’s commitment to providing an extraordinary and memorable stay, promises an unmatched fishing retreat. Together, we look forward to welcoming fishing enthusiasts and corporate groups from near and far to continue to explore the diverse fishing opportunities our region has to offer.
Drop us a line for more information on this enhanced fishing experiences and to book your next adventure. info@greatriverfishing.com
That’s it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…
Comments
AUG