Hi Subscriber and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 16th of April 2026.
Trees are budding and the birds have returned from their wintering grounds to greet this incredible spring that we are having. As the days continue to grow longer, the local waters are warming up, and the fish are biting! It’s time to shake off the cabin fever and get out on the water.
Before we get into the scene on the rivers, we would like we would like to invite all that can make it to Two Upcoming Salmon Allocation Townhall meetings this weekend. COME SUPORT YOUR RIGHT TO FISH!
- Langley ~ Saturday April 18 ~ Location: South Ridge Fellowship Church 22756 48 Ave, Langley Twp, BC ~ Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
- Langford ~ Sunday April 19 ~ Location: Langford Legion Hall, 761 Station Avenue, Langford, BC ~ Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
See below or more information on what this policy change means to sport anglers and sign the petition!
Now here’s what’s happening on our rivers…
REMOTE WILDERNESS FISHING
Jan – May The Lillooet River is a gem of a spring fishery and has been fishing very well! We still have a few weeks left for this incredible experience, don’t let it pass you by. 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 sheer 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 info@greatriverfishing.com
May – Sept The Upper Pitt River is a special fishery and for good reason — big bull trout living in one of the prettiest places around. The beginning of May starts this special fishery and it continues through the summer, but typically the best bull trout fishing is during freshet. No explanation why, just know that the numbers do not lie: bigger fish and better 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 overfished. It is truly an adventure that is easily accessible within a day from Vancouver. For a free personalized quote please drop us an email at info@greatriverfishing.com
STEELHEAD:
The Vedder River, along with most other Fraser tributaries, has come up somewhat but has stayed surprisingly low despite the heat wave we just went through. Over the last few days, we’ve seen some rain, which will get the fish moving—especially those that have been holding low in the river.
PLEASE keep in mind that the Vedder is now closed above the Tamihi Bridge and will close above the Garrison Bridge on May 1, transitioning to fly fishing only below. See the BC Fishing Regulations for more details.
For the fly anglers, now is the time to get out there. With rising water comes slightly warmer temperatures, which can really encourage steelhead to chase and attack your offering. Fly sizes and colors can vary greatly, and water conditions will dictate your choice. Keep in mind that salmon smolts are starting to emerge, and minnow-like flies can be key.
For those drift fishing, this is the time of year when spoons and spinners can make a difference for the same reasons steelhead are more willing to take a fly. That said, small to medium jigs have been working well, along with washed-out pink rubber worms, trout beads, and wool combinations. Of course, small bags of roe or skeined chunks always work.
IT’s NOT TOO LATE, there’s still a few weeks left… BOOK YOUR 2026 STEELHEAD ADVENTURE NOW!! 604-792-3544
We are offering River Raft Float Adventures on the Vedder/Chilliwack River this spring for the elusive Steelhead!! This experience opens up water that is difficult to access any other way. These adventures run until the end of April. Want to knock old square tail off the bucket list? This is your best opportunity…
Peak of the run is towards the end of March and holds on well into April. We will be primarily float and/or fly fishing for these chrome beauties and will use the raft primarily to offer ease of access to the water and most fishing will still be done from shore. Also, for those with a time constraint or just wanting to learn the in and outs of steelheading, we will be offering Walk and Wade opportunities. If this is something that interests you please drop us a quick email for more info.info@greatriverfishing.com
IMPORTANT! Support the Canadian ownership, Public Right to Fish and Priority Access to Salmon
We would like to take a moment to discuss a federal policy change that will undermine sportfishing in BC. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) is under pressure to eliminate the principle of Common Property Resource from its Salmon Allocation Policy. Removing this principle from the policy would represent a radical shift that could undermine the rights of Canadians, create uncertainty around the ownership of a common property resource, and disrupt the effective management of the salmon fishery.
ARE YOU CANADIAN? DO YOU BELIEVE THAT:
- Salmon are a Common Property Resource belonging to all Canadians
- Salmon must be referred to as a Common Property Resource in the Salmon Allocation Policy
- The Public Right to Fish must be referred to in the Salmon Allocation Policy
- Recreational sector priority access to Chinook and Coho must be maintained after conservation and before the commercia! sector
….THEN PLEASE SIGN THIS PETITION! and SHARE, SHARE, SHARE!
What else can you do?
Reach out to your local MPs – call them, stop in, speak to them, and write emails. Also, call or email the Federal Fisheries Minister, the Honourable Joanne Thompson, and let her know this is NOT how we want her to manage OUR Canadian Common Property Resource. Ask her to keep the SAP as status quo, and just add the IRB fishery (Indigenous Rights-Based) right underneath the FSC fishery (Food, Social, Ceremonial) in the ranking within the policy AND leave the rest the same.
…remember #wefish #wehunt #WEVOTE
STURGEON:
IT’S TIME! The big boys have woken up, and we are starting to see some real nice fish on almost every charter. With water temperatures increasing and levels rising, the bigger fish have definitely become more active and are feeding hard after a long winter.
As water levels rise and temperatures warm, sturgeon are beginning to leave their wintering holes and move into shallower lies. This typically spreads the fish out somewhat, so it’s best to keep moving and try different anchor drops. Remember, moving just 30 feet can sometimes make all the difference.
Rule of thumb: if you haven’t had a bite in 30–45 minutes, pick up the anchor and move, even if it’s just a short distance.
Eulachon are in the river now on their annual spawning run. These small baitfish (also known as candlefish) migrate up the Fraser from saltwater to spawn at this time of year. They will become the bait of choice over the next few weeks, particularly in the lower stretches of the Fraser downstream from the confluence of the Vedder River. Coarse fish, salmon eggs, and lamprey eels have also been excellent and will continue to work throughout the spring.
As noted, the Fraser has risen, and water visibility is minimal. Be ultra-vigilant when boating, as there are many rock bars just below the surface. The river changes every year, and some areas that were navigable last season may have filled in or shifted. This is especially evident around the “5 Fingers” area of the Fraser (above the mouth of the Vedder River to Grassy Bar), where most of the current has moved back to the south side of the river.
Also keep in mind that rising water brings debris. Always keep an eye upstream of your anchor location for logs and other hazards that could potentially damage your anchor line.
With Fraser River levels rising, we find ourselves on the doorstep of the much-anticipated Fraser Canyon sturgeon season. In fact, the fishing has been ultra-steady, with good numbers of fish caught on every outing so far.
If you are considering fishing this unique stretch of water, keep in mind that it is very “heavy” water and not for inexperienced or timid jet boaters. Please be very careful. The canyon is a high-water fishery, and the best sturgeon holding areas are not always obvious, as elevated water levels can conceal prime spots.
If you’re interested in targeting some of the biggest fish in one of the most spectacular venues in the world, drop us a line, we’d be happy to help organize one of our Ultimate Fraser Canyon Sturgeon trips.info@greatriverfishing.com
BOOK YOUR 2026 STURGEON ADVENTURE NOW!! 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
GRFA would like to announce that we have purchased a NEW boat strictly for touring the river. This behemoth 26 footer is powered by twin inboards and can take on 22 passengers. Starting middle of May, these private, scenic and historical tours typically will last around 2.5 hours and are fantastic for corporate and large groups looking for a unique experience. For more info check out https://greatriverfishing.com/jet-boat-river-tours/
POTENTIAL HUGE SOCKEYE RUN FOR 2026 BOOK NOW!!
We would like to take a moment and talk about what we’re in store for this summer. Last year we were blessed with an abnormal amount of Sockeye Salmon returning in the month of August. This allowed for a surprise sport angling opportunity on the Fraser River… Well this year is the 4 year high in the Sockeye cycle and current projections are upwards of 15 million fish!!! This should once again allow for a sport fishing opportunity and most likely we will be open towards the end of August and into September. We are super excited about this and are already starting to see anglers that are in the know booking dates in anticipation. If your at all interested in getting in on the action please do not hesitate to reach out to us for more info or possible dates. info@greatriverfishing.com
FRASER CANYON RIVERSIDE DOMES
The Domes are now closed for the season and we would like to Thank all of you that took advantage of these beautiful accommodations. Having said that this is the time to book your 2026 vacation and avoid missing out on all that the stunning Fraser Canyon has to offer! Whether it be a fishing trip of a lifetime or perhaps just a cozy weekend get away, now is the time to drop us a line and avoid disappointment, you’ll be glad you did. info@greatriverfishing.com
These 2 Geodesic Domes are the ultimate headquarters to your Fraser Canyon outdoor 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, anglers 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 you up 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. 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
FRASER RIVER LODGE – BOOK YOUR 2026 STAYCATIONS TODAY
From large corporate events to single person stays, the lodge can handle all your needs. Combining Great River Fishing Adventures’ exceptional team and professional guiding services with Fraser River Lodge’s commitment to providing an extraordinary and memorable stay, promises an unmatched fishing retreat. Together, we look forward to welcoming fishing enthusiasts and corporate groups from near and far to continue to explore the diverse fishing opportunities our region has to offer.
Drop us a line for more information on this enhanced fishing experiences and to book your next adventure. info@greatriverfishing.com
That’s it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…
Comments
APR