Hi and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 13th of February 2023.
February is typically the time that many anglers like to prep gear and dream about the warmer months around the corner. We are blessed that our little neck of the woods does not experience the frigid cold that Canada is known for and we can keep fishing without drilling holes through the ice. Thus far our winter has been mild and quite temperate, this has kept local rivers in decent shape for steelhead and trout fishing. Having said that, the rest of the province has not been so lucky and the frigid weather in the northern areas has dropped the Fraser River dramatically and is currently as low as we have ever seen it.
STURGEON:
With the Fraser being incredibly low we recommend that anglers venturing out be very vigilant when cruising the river. Upstream of the mouth of the Vedder River there are many exposed and slightly submerged gravel bars and one really needs to know the lay of the water before heading out. In fact anyone running prop driven motors on their boats should probably avoid the area altogether and stick to the lower river for the moment. For those with jet boats, take it slow and easy and if it’s really bad don’t risk the inevitable, these frigid waters are not for swimming in at this time of year.
For those that have ventured out the fishing has actually been quite decent for these river monsters as of late. Good numbers of 3 to 7 footers are the norm with the odd bigger fish still active. With the water being very low and cold the fish have moved into their wintering holes and are quite stacked up when you find them. Keep moving around until you find them, once you start getting bites stay close as they tend to pack up in the winter and often ones does not have move much to get into consistent action. At this time of year a plethora of different baits can work on any given and it wise to have an assortment. Baits of choice are lamprey, coarse fish, single eggs, dew worms and roe. Keep your offering size down to the minimum as larger baits at this time year are often ignored or the sturg will often “lay” down on it to save it for later; this results in foul hooked fish as the motion of the fish telepaths to the rod like a bite.
What better way is there to spend a winter day than sitting in a comfortable covered jet boat waiting on another bite from the almighty sturgeon. With limited fishing pressure on the river this is a great time of year to get out and experience these dinosaurs of the deep. We offer half and full day outing’s via jet boat with nothing but the finest in guides and tackle. We pride ourselves in ensuring your day is as comfortable, safe and enjoyable as possible. Whatever your speed, we will cater to your needs. Call or email today. info@greatriverfishing.com
STEELHEAD:
Current water conditions on most all the tributaries of the Fraser are pretty well prime. Weather has been fairly mild these past few weeks and most systems are staying quite stable, moving somewhat from rains but staying fishable most days.
The Vedder River water levels have been bouncing around a little which seems to have pushed in quite a few fish with some bigger specimens finally around. Most of the fish have been taken in the mid to upper portion of the river. With the current cooler weather predicted the river will be on the drop and clean. As the water levels drop look towards smaller offerings to entice these prized fish. For those drift fishing small jigs in pink and peach have been working along with smaller washed out pink rubber worms, trout beads and wool combo’s. Of course small bags of roe or skeined chunks always work. For the fly guy, bring the size of your intruder down a bit and keep it bright, like the old adage goes” bright day – bright fly’. Also do not be afraid to go small Popsicle style flies or even single egg patterns, especially during mid day. Keep in mind that you want to be running very heavy sink tips and if your not touching bottom every-once in a while, your just practicing casting.
LILLOOET RIVER TROUT & STEELHEAD:
With winter upon us our thoughts turn towards the new fishing opportunities that it will bring. The Lillooet River is a gem of a winter fishery for Bull Trout and a great opportunity at some steelhead, cutthroat and rainbow trout as well. This is one of our premier trips and when you get there you will see why. This is a remote fishery that gets very little pressure and requires a skilled jet boater to reach the best waters. The shear beauty and majestic scenery coupled with miles of perfect fishing water makes this one of those bucket list kind of rivers… want to get it out of your bucket? Contact Rick for more info rstahl@greatriverfishing.com
Opening in April! 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
That’s it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…
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