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Fishing Report for Chilliwack to Vancouver – February 20, 2021

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Fishing Report for Chilliwack to Vancouver – February 20, 2021

Hi and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 20th of February

Last week saw winter move into the Fraser Valley and temperatures dropped and the snow flew. Now we are returning to our normal west coast winter. As the weather warms up, the abating snow and ice reveals fishing opportunities to be had. Here’s what going on…

STURGEON
Last week saw the Fraser River clog up with ice flows as most of BC was pelted by a winter storm and temperatures plummeted to sub freezing. Ice plugged the river to the point where one could not safely fish and all we could do is wait it out, knowing it would clear and the fish would be biting. Well the river is primarily free of ice now and the fishing has been excellent. To those venturing out we still suggest to keep a sharp look out for any straggling large pieces of ice. Also, last weeks cold weather brought the river down and many gravel and sandbars are now very much on the shallow side, be vigilant out there and avoid getting grounded on them.

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The fishing has remained excellent and after last week’s “blip” we are right back where we left off… we have not seen this many big sturgeon in the winter for a very long time. Couple that with the fish being stacked up in their wintering holes and its making for some very incredible days. Most every charter is realizing fast action on mid range sized fish in the 3 to 6 foot range as well as some larger fish over 8 feet sprinkled in to keep things very interesting.

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Look for fish in the deeper wintering holes. Once you find them, stay close, as noted they tend to stack 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 more of an assortment than during the salmon runs. Baits of choice are lamprey, coarse fish, single eggs, dew worms and roe.

WM1

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. rstahl@greatriverfishing.com


STEELHEAD
Most systems that have steelhead in them are still on the low side as temperatures in the mountains have remained cool and any precipitation has been in the form of snow. This has made for some excellent conditions and we can expect water levels to raise somewhat over the next week, hopefully holding in mid flow range.

Steelhead Fishing - Steelheading

The Vedder/Chilliwack River has been leading the way with what seems like a very healthy return of fish to the system. Currently there are quite a few hatchery fish lurking about and anglers are seeing good success through out the entire system. Please remember that all wild steelhead need to be released unharmed. These fish are ultra important to the river and should always be handled with care and released as quickly as possible.

With waters expected to rise over the weekend and into next week adjust your offerings accordingly. For example, in low clear water stick with small baits like trout beads, single egg sacks and wool combos. As the waters rises and/or colors up, start running larger baits like jigs, rubber worms and skeined roe. For the fly angler the same principle applies, low clear water use small bright flies and larger darker flies as the water levels rise and color. Adjusting your sink tip is more important than anything for if your not snagging bottom every now and again, your probably not deep enough.

Steelhead fishing on the Vedder River

We have heard reports of some decent fishing over in the Chehalis River as well, however the Stave has been lack luster to say the least. Also many of the lesser known rivers and streams are just now starting to see some fish and may be worth a try.

WM8

GRFA is once again offering raft float trips on the Vedder/Chilliwack River. This is in an effort to enhance the fishing experience and open up water that is difficult to access any other way. Want to knock old square tail of the bucket list? This is your best opportunity… Peak of the run is towards the end of February and into March. We will be primarily float and/or fly fishing for the chrome beauties and will use the raft primarily to offer ease of access to the water and most fishing will be still be done from shore. If this is something that interest you please drop Rick a quick email for more info. rstahl@greatriverfishing.com


Lillooet River Trout Fishing

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

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Fishing, Edmonton, Alberta, Keith Rae, Fishing trips, North Saskatchewan RiverNEW FOR 2021!
WALLEYE & TROUT FISHING, Trail BC
GRFA has partnered up with some top notch guides and will once again be offering rainbow trout fly fishing, as well as Walleye angling, on the Columbia River starting this spring. The Walleye fishing is something to behold as generous limits on 2 to 3 pound fish are easily attained daily. The trout fishing is world class as trophy sized wild rainbows sip dry flies from the surface of the river. With over 30 kilometers of fishing and 1,500 fish per kilometer, the Columbia is a fly fisher’s dream. This fishery is a true hidden gem and offers anglers the best of both worlds with scrappy trout and tasty walleye. Drop us a line to learn more about this special fishery.

Columbia River, Fly Fishing, Trail, Fishing, Rainbows, Trout, Vancouver, Fishing Trips

That’s it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…

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