Hi and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 7th of June 2022.
With Fathers Day right around the corner we are amping up for the upcoming summer season, which promises to be a very busy one. Still not sure what to get Dad for his special day? Why not take him fishing and take advantage of our spring special; good for any day of the year. For more info check out Spring Special Here. Now onto what’s happening on our rivers now….
STURGEON:
The Fraser Rivers water levels are going to stay high from now until about mid to late of July. This is due to the above average snow pack in the northern reaches of the Province. The debris has calmed down somewhat as of late, however we do expect another push of debris as we near the 8 meter mark at the Hope water meter station. We could see water levels go as high as 12 meters this run off, this will depend on how the snow melt progresses. Not to worry though, GRFA guides are very well versed in high water fishing and true experts when it comes to navigating the river and creating meaningful experiences every day.
With the waters levels up and warming from the spring freshet, most fish have moved into shallower depths than they were 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 has come to an end and although some are still seeing success with this oily baitfish its time to start using different baits. Try lamprey, coarse fish, single salmon eggs , roe and maybe even a little salmon meat. At this time of year the fish tend to be on the prowl and although some baits will outperform others the fish will tend to be more opportunistic.
With the Fraser in full freshet the 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. 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 up we find ourselves entering the much anticipated Fraser Canyon sturgeon season! It is in this higher water that canyon truly shines and provides some of the finest sturgeon to be had on the planet. 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
UPPER PITT RIVER:
The Pitt is also experiencing freshet and this is great news as it has brought in a decent number of Bull Trout already! This special fishery continues through the summer but having said that typically the best Bull Trout fishing is during freshet, which is now until the first week of July. No explanation why, just know that the numbers do not lie. Bigger fish and numbers.
Of note is that the river seems to be running considerably “cleaner” this year in that water visibility, even in freshet, has been outstanding. Our only guess is that during the fall high water an upper river clay bank, or the like, has run its course and is no longer adding “color” to the water. If you are going to try running your jet boat up the Pitt River keep in mind that this is a shallow water fishery and not the place for an unexperienced jet boater. The river has changed dramatically from last year and will continue to “move” around as the season progresses. This is not the place to run into trouble as it is a remote river and help can be far away…
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
NEWS: Salmon Opening
Current projected numbers of returning sockeye for the Fraser system are high and it looks like we will be getting an opening this summer! Yes, this is the high in the 4 year cycle and it is looking very promising for an opening sometime mid to late August and continuing into September. Along with the sockeye the chinook numbers are also excellent and they too will likely be included in the opening. This should bleed into the coho and chum fall fishery giving us a well deserved long salmon season. For those thinking of trying this fishery please do not hesitate to book as space is already very limited for us through the proposed opening. Drop us a line at info@greatriverfishing.com for more info.
Fraser Canyon Riverside Domes are open for the 2022 season!
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.
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, as well as air conditioned 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 a closer look at the Domes Click Here
NEWS: Fraser Canyon Teepee Escape UPGRADES!
With the popularity of these accommodations increasing constantly we have managed to add even more to the experience! The 20′ Teepee now has a stand alone rustic covered outdoor kitchen and bathroom with all the goodies to along with it, including a large deck with fire table overlooking the river.
By moving the kitchen outside we added plenty of space to the interior of this teepee. This teepee is now set up the same as the 26 footer with a king bed and a daybed with trundle (2 regular sized twin beds). This is the ultimate canyon get away for those looking to add to their fishing adventure or just wanting to take in what the historic Fraser Canyon has to offer.
We’ve also added a small teepee for kids looking to get away from their parents… or maybe the other way around. This little teepee is a down scaled version just the right size for children to have their own glamping experience. To have a closer look at the Teepees Click Here
For more info or to find out availability please reach out to Alyssa at info@greatriverfishing.com
That’s it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…
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