Hi and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 24th of February, 2022.
As we move through winter to early spring we once again find ourselves pining for a bent rod and some good times on the water. With the floods behind us we are experiencing very normal weather patterns for this time of year. Many of the tributaries did experience changes as the high flood waters cut new runs and left behind old ones, having said that, most remain the same… and the fish have not missed a beat.
Before we get into what’s happening on the river we would like to take a moment and let you know that we’ll be at the Vancouver Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show this March 5th and 6th being held at Vancouver Convention Center. We will be there with Tourism Chilliwack and Tourism Hope showcasing our Fraser Canyon luxury riverside accommodations (Domes and Teepees)as well as our scenic river tours and, of course, fishing. Doors open at 10 AM and tickets can be purchased online or in person at the doors. With pandemic protocol finally easing we’re excited to be able to once again attend events like this in a safe environment, come by booth #426/424 and say Hi! we’d love to see you there.
Now onto the fishing and what’s been happening on the water…
STURGEON:
With February waning sturgeon have moved into their typical cool weather haunts and have switched to the usual spring baits. Look for fish in the deeper holes or along their edges in shallower waters. Once you find them, stay close as they tend to stack up this time of year and often ones does not have move far 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.
As of late the fishing has been quite decent for these dinosaurs of the deep. Good numbers of fish in the 3′ to 8′ mark have been the norm with the possibility of a giant always lurking. Most of the fishing has been happening downstream of the Vedder River confluence, however we are still seeing some decent action, especially on the larger fish, upstream around Chilliwack.
The river is low and will probably remain so for the rest of the spring. Be vigilant when cruising the river, particularly upstream of the mouth of the Vedder river as there are many exposed and slightly submerged gravel bars that become hazards especially for those that run prop driven motors on their boats. Keep in mind that this area has changed quite a bit from the high water flows and gravel bars have “moved” somewhat. This holds true for most of the river around Chilliwack and up through to Hope, in fact some holes have filled in while others are now deeper and larger.
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:
Current water conditions on most all the tributaries of the Fraser are pretty well prime. Weather has been very normal these past few weeks and most systems have flushed out since the floods and water clarity has greatly improved.
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 the river will be on the drop and clean. As the water levels drop look towards smaller offerings such as trout beads, Jensen eggs and wool combo’s, especially during mid-day. Also, the river is in prime shape for the fly, swing heavy sink tips with the typical winter offerings such as Popsicle and small intruders.
The river has changed quite a bit from the floods, fishing runs have “moved” in many area’s and in some cases, quite dramatically. Also, there are a few new clay banks that became exposed upstream of the kayak bridge and water clarity has been a little “greener” than normal, even when low. Remember that this is typically a good thing as fish feel safe, still see well and eat confidently in these types of conditions.
GRFA will once again be offering 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. We will be primarily float and/or fly fishing for the chrome beauties and will use the raft primarily to offer ease of access and most of the fishing will be still be done from shore.
Peak of the run is traditionally mid to late March and bleeds well into April. We are experiencing some pent up demand and much of March is booked, if you are interested at all please don’t delay to contact us and we’ll do our best accommodate your needs. Want to knock old square tail of the bucket list? This is your best opportunity…drop Rick a quick email for more info. rstahl@greatriverfishing.com
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
NEW! We are proud to announce that we have opened 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. For more photos and info on the domes and property Check Out 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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