Hi and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 13th of May 2019.
Feels like summer has arrived!! 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. Here’s whats happening out there…
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 the snow pack in hills is right at normal levels and 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.
The annual Eulachon run is pretty well over 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 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.
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.
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 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
We made our inaugural exploratory run up the Pitt this week and it’s looking good! Water levels were a little low, however we were able to get way up with the jet boat and spend the day in one of the most beautiful places in BC.
Fishing was a little challenging however we did manage a few fish, including a nice rainbow, with promises of more to come. As the freshet continues and the glaciers bring the Pitt water levels up, fresh sea run Bull Trout will start to move in on mass. Typically by the 2nd or 3rd week of May they are in fish able numbers and continue throughout the summer. Having said that… the best Bull Trout fishing is during freshet as the fish enter the system for the summer and feed voraciously on the salmon fry in the river. Early summer is THE time for both size 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
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 cuties 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.
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.
That’s it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…
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