With the governing powers starting to loosen Covid-19 restrictions in the Fraser Valley we are getting excited to be able to get back out on the water with our guests very soon. Needless to say we have been exercising our social distancing and spending much of our time in self isolation out on the water and the fishing has been quite good. Here’s what going on in our fishing community…
Sturgeon:
With the summer like weather we’ve been blessed with the Fraser River water levels have bumped up dramatically. With the interior snow packs being slightly above average; and the late start to the melt it looks as if we’ll be seeing rising level for at least the next few weeks. With the high water comes allot of debris and anyone angling from an anchored boat really needs to keep an eye up stream to ensure that you don’t get run over by a floating log. Also, fishing lines need to be cleaned more often, at least every 20 minutes to make sure that the bait is not covered up.
Talk about timing! Can you see the fish?
With the waters levels up and warming, most fish have moved into shallower depths than they we’re in the late winter. This spring movement 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.
The annual Eulachon run is coming to an end 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 upstream try lamprey, coarse fish and single salmon eggs, 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.
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.
With the Frasers waters coming up we find ourselves on the door step of the much anticipated Fraser Canyon sturgeon season. In fact the fishing has been ultra-steady with good numbers of above average fish coming on every outing thus far. 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
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.com
Cutthroat Trout:
The Harrison and Stave Rivers remain clear and high and have picked up as we are now seeing salmon fry in good numbers. Fish are nosing around for these minnows as the salmon life cycle begin a fresh. Best fishing has been at day break but they can keep biting all day with a little cloud cover, which we’ve had plenty of lately. Watch for fish crashing minnows close to shore and move to them.
Most anglers are targeting cutties with light fly gear. With the advent of the Salmon fry migration stick with small minnow patterns like the good old Rolled Muddler Minnow and Tied Back Minnows fished close to the surface. Look for fish rising, cutthroat are very schooly and even if you just see one riser there is a very good chance that there are a few more with it. Also cutthroat are very light sensitive creatures and you would be best to concentrate your efforts to low cloud covered days.
Novice to expert we can help you dial these little battlers in. We offer half and full day excursions via jet boat or walk in’s for these ghosts of the coast. Drop us a line and we’ll be happy to fill you in.
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
Steelhead:
The Vedder/Chilliwack river has gone to fly fishing only and is completely closed above the Vedder Crossing bridge. The river is very high at the moment and tough to fish. 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. The BC Water Flow Meter is good indicator on how the river is doing check it out HERE. If the river comes back to under 2.0 meters there will be some decent water to fish, keep in mind for the fly 1.5 to 1.75 is about perfect…
That’s all for now, until next time: tight lines and scream’n reels.
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