Hi and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 7th of May 2024.
What an incredible spring we’re having. With summer like conditions out there it’s hard to imagine anyone that hasn’t felt the need the get out on the water and enjoy the sunshine. With Mothers Day right around the corner…. what better way to spoil mom than with a stay and play package in one of our luxurious accommodation option listed below. Whether it be a relaxed weekend lounging around one of the properties or perhaps an add on to one of our premier fishing package, whatever her speed we can help achieve the maximum out of her special day. She deserves it and so do you!
STURGEON:
This warm weather has activated the spring freshet and we are seeing the waters rise on the Fraser River. 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 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.
We have seen our first push of the annual Eulachon run and are awaiting another surge of these oily baitfish around Mothers Day. Sturgeon truly love to eat eulachon and we are expecting explosive sturgeon feasting as we see Eulachon numbers increase. They are 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. Please keep in mind that provincial regulations require you to cut the head off of Eulachons when using them as bait in region 2, you can use the headless body or head of a fin fish only.
Keep in mind that even though the water has bumped and muddied up, the river is still low and boat operators need to be more vigilant than ever as many gravel bars are now only barely submerged. 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. Also, 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. Fishing lines will need to be cleaned more often as well, at least every 20 minutes to make sure that the bait is not covered up.
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 us a line and he’ll be more than happy to help organize one of our Ultimate Fraser Canyon Sturgeon trips with you. info@greatriverfishing.com or 604.792.3544
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. info@greatriverfishing.com or 604.792.3544
STEELHEAD:
The Vedder/Chilliwack river has gone to fly fishing only and is completely closed above the Vedder Crossing bridge. The river is still in shape, however with the warm weather we are slated for this will not last. We probably only have a few days left to get ot there before it turns dark and muddy for a while. 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.
UPPER PITT RIVER:
With this warm weather are attentions starts to drift towards late spring and early summer and the fishing opportunities to be had. The Upper Pitt River is one of these special fisheries and for good reason, big bull trout living in one of the prettiest places around. Typically around the middle of May signifies the start of this special fishery and it 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. info@greatriverfishing.com or 604.792.3544
MOTHERS & FATHERS DAY STAY & PLAY
Take Mom & Dad fishing for their special day!! Then relax in luxurious accommodations
Give the gift that every parent wants, to spend some relaxing time with family and friends… and why not catch a few fish on the way? Everyone wins!! Great River Fishing has gift certificates available in any denomination just drop us a line at info@greatriverfishing.com and we’ll get you hooked up!!
NEW!! FRASER RIVER LODGE:
GRFA has joined forces with one of the top accommodation providers along the mighty Fraser, the Fraser River Lodge. This first class operation is known for its world class customer service, absolutely stunning food and luxurious accommodations in one of the most spectacular soundings in the Fraser Valley. Check out this quick video for a peak at these plush accommodations.
Offering packages from quaint single or small groups to large corporate events the lodge can accommodate all of your needs. This is truly one of the finest accommodation providers in BC and we are very excited to be able to work alongside them. Leave the hustle and bustle of the daily grind and come relax, stay and play with us at Fraser River Lodge. For more info please do not hesitate to reach out. info@greatriverfishing.com
NOW OPEN!! 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 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
OPENING SOON!! Fraser Canyon Teepee Escape
What an awesome way to relax and unwind after pitting your muscle and mind against the all mighty white sturgeon. Dates are dwindling fast for this summer and many weekend are now full. If you’re at all interested, don’t delay, drop us a line today.
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. These teepees are your base camp for your next outdoor adventure!
That’s it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…
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