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Fishing Report for Chilliwack to Vancouver – May 12, 2021

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Fishing Report for Chilliwack to Vancouver – May 12, 2021

Hi and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 12th of May 2021.

Spring has sprung! …and what a beautiful spring it has been thus far.  Here’s what’s been happening on the water and a few things coming up soon…

STURGEON:
With the days getting longer and the current warm weather we’ve been experiencing, we are seeing the  activation of the spring freshet and the Fraser River is on the rise. Thus far it has been a very easy run off for us, slow and steady without too many high fluctuations. This bodes well for the upcoming weeks as the snow pack in hills is right at normal levels and we should have a very consistent freshet.

With the waters levels up and warming, sturgeon are moving into shallower lies to feast upon whatever they can find on the sandy bottom. This will typically spread the fish out somewhat and one is best served to keep moving trying different anchor drops, remember moving 30 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.

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The annual Eulachon run is pretty well over however the 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 up, lampreys and single salmon eggs have been working well, 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.

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Students from BCIT enjoying an afternoon of Juvenile Sturgeon tagging.

The Fraser has bumped up and visibility in the water is almost zero. Be ultra-vigilant when boating the river as there are many rock bars that are just submersed at the moment. The river has changed somewhat, as it does every year, and some areas that were good to go last year have filled in and channels may have moved. This is especially evident around the “5 Fingers” area of the Fraser (Above the mouth of the Vedder River to Grassy Bar) as most of current has moved back over the south side. Also keep in mind that with the rising water comes the debris and it is wise to keep an eye up stream of your anchor location for logs and other debris that could potentially wreak havoc on you anchor line.

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We have had a phenomenal start in the Fraser Canyon this year. The fishing has been ultra-steady with good numbers of above average fish coming on every charter. 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 Rick a line and he’ll be more than happy to help organize one of our Ultimate Fraser Canyon Sturgeon trips with you. rstahl@greatriverfishing.com

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What better way is there to spend a spring 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.comThat’s it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…


steelhead fishing on the Vedder River

STEELHEAD:
The Vedder/Chilliwack river has gone to fly fishing only and is completely closed above the Vedder Crossing bridge. The river is surprisingly still in great shape, however with the warm weather we are not expecting this to last too much longer. We probably only have a few days left to get out there before it turns dark and muddy for a while.

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With higher water look towards large darker intruder style flies with a very fast sinking tip and search out the “softer” water with good light penetration. Often in high and off colored water the fish will hold in fairly shallow water.


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PITT RIVER:
With May upon us we start our annual Pitt River Fishery. This special fishery 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 Rick an email at rstahl@greatriverfishing.com

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GRFA UPDATE:
If you haven’t heard already we are adding deluxe accommodations up the Fraser Canyon in the way of Geodesic Domes. Construction is currently under way and we are hoping to have them up and operational sometime in July.

 

These are exciting times as we start to see some reel progress on these luxurious domes. The decks and out buildings are complete and we have the domes in hand. By our next report we plan to have pictures of the actual units erected!

Photo 2021-03-02, 4 29 05 PM

 

 

 

 

These Domes will be primarily used to house our fishing guest as they are ideally situated right on the banks of the Fraser River near Yale. Having said that, if you are just looking for a beautiful and peaceful get away they are ideal and will also be offered for accommodation only. We are expecting them to be quite busy right off the hop so please do not hesitate to reach out to info@greatriverfishing.com for more info if you’re at all interested.


Columbia Trout

COLUMBIA RIVER:
Many river anglers are looking for a fishing vacation during the spring and early summer freshet and this just may be the answer. This system is exempt from the spring closure that covers most trout streams in BC. It is also a free flowing tailwater fishery so water temperatures and levels tend to be ideal even when other rivers are too cold, warm, high or low to fish well. Its an ideal get away for those itching to cast at some big wild rainbows or perhaps look for a generous limit of walleye to tempt the appetite.

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At this time of year most anglers are fishing streamer style flies cast with either a fast sink tip or weighted fly for rainbows. Look for action in the deeper parts of the river where fish tend to stack up. Walleye anglers are primarily using jigs tipped with night crawlers. These can be cast bounced on the bottom or fished suspended under a float. Again look for deeper slower water where the fish congregate.

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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. Want to give the Columbia a go? GRFA has partnered up with some of the best guides in the area and is now offering trips to this world class fishery. Drop us a line at info@greatriverfishing.com


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We have teamed up with one of the finest operations on the west coast and will be offering salmon and halibut trips. This area is re-known for its exemplary salmon fishing and was not effected by the recent closures. It’s also a phenomenal fishery for halibut and other bottom fish. Couple this with superior hospitality and a beautiful on the water lodge and you have the makings of a top notch West Coast experience. Reach out to us for more information at info@greatriverfishing.com

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Photo 2020-06-07, 9 17 55 PM (edited-Pixlr)

FRASER CANYON TEEPEE ESCAPE
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. After a fun filled day relax and unwind in the cedar hot tub, put your feet up on the expansive deck or sit next to the fire and enjoy the nature that surrounds you. These teepees are your base camp for your next outdoor adventure! For more information please do not hesitate to reach out to us. info@greatriverfishing.com

Photo 2020-06-07, 9 13 24 PM (1) (edited-Pixlr)

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

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