Hi and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 20th of January 2018.
The last few weeks found us locked down with repeated ice/snow storms and frigid temperatures. Now that the temperatures have stabilized and warmed up a little it’s time to head back out to the river for some typical mid winter fishing. Here’s the gist as to what’s happening.
STURGEON:
Fishing has actually been quite decent for these dinosaurs of the deep as of late. Good numbers of smaller fish are the norm through winter with the odd bigger fish still active. The lower river downstream of Mission has been producing huge numbers of fish but you are hard pressed to find any over 5 feet in length. From the Chilliwack area to Mission has also been very good for numbers but we have been seeing some decent fish as well, no 10 foot monsters but some decent 6 to 7 footers sprinkled in with the smaller fish.
With winter upon us the sturgeon have moved into their typical cold weather haunts and have switched to the usual winter baits. Once you find them, stay close as they tend to stack up real well in the winter and often one does not have to move much to get into consistent action. At this time of year a plethora of different baits can work on any given day and it is wise to have more of an assortment than during the salmon runs. Baits of choice are lamprey, eulachon, coarse fish, single eggs, dew worms and roe.
The river is low and will probably remain so for the rest of the winter. 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.
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:
Steelhead fishing started off slower than normal probably because of low water conditions with the frigid temperatures we were seeing earlier. The last week has definitely seen an up-tick of action as the water has spiked and colored a little and temperatures have crept up to normal. Look towards more fish entering the Chilliwack/Vedder River as we draw closer to February.
With the water being up a little with some color in the water look towards slightly larger offering such as rubber worms, jigs and roe. At this time of year with these conditions the fish will be quite spread out, keep moving and cover as much water as possible.
GRFA has acquired a 15 foot, 3 person raft and will be offering float trips on the Vedder/Chilliwack River starting this February!! 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 off the bucket list? This is your best opportunity…
Peak of the run is towards the end of February through April. 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 interests you, please 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
That’s it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…
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JAN