Hi and welcome to the GRFA fishing report updated on the 22nd of May 2020.
With Covid-19 protocols starting to slacken we are preparing to get back out on the water with clients on a regular basis! As we enter the 2nd phase of BC Health Office’s plan to open up business we find ourselves at the doorstep of our belated season as groups up to 6 are once again allowed. Of course GRFA will be doing all that we can to ensure the safety of our guests and will adhere to any guidelines soon to be distributed. We recognize that this pandemic is still very real and our actions will determine the BCHO decisions on protocols being reinstated or removed. In saying this we would like to reassure you that all will be done within reason to make sure that boats, rods, tackle etc… will be as sanitized as possible and your safety is paramount as we move into a post pandemic situation. Please feel free to drop us a line if you have any questions or concerns. Now let’s talk fishing…
STURGEON:
With the Fraser in full freshet the river has reached its traditional max height and will stay high for the next few weeks. You may see small bumps and dips in the level but overall we are at the peak and should see a slow steady demise of water levels as we near June. Despite the high water the fishing has been excellent as there has been very little pressure on the fish and the initial blast of heavy debris has come down somewhat.
Having said that, with the Covid restrictions in place the river has had fewer eyes on it then ever and it is at these times that poachers and others that would do it harm can move more freely and take advantage of the situation. It’s up to us to be diligent and report any illegal activity that we see; however before you do please be certain that you are in the right and follow some guide lines. Here is a link with what we feel is the right procedure and protocol to ensure proper reporting. Click Here http://greatriverfishing.com/fishing-reports/do-you-know-how-to-report-illegal-fishing-activity/ On a similar note please keep in mind that three of the spawning channels are now closed to sturgeon fishing (May 15) and there are 7 more that are on a voluntary closure. Please check the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations for maps of these areas.
With the waters levels up and warming from the spring freshet, most fish have moved into shallower depths than they we’re 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. 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.
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
UPPER PITT RIVER:
The Pitt is also experiencing an early freshet and this is great news as we will be able to start running the river early this year!! Starting the first week of June we will be offering trips up to this most coveted fishing destination. This special fishery 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. For a free personalized quote please drop Rick an email at rstahl@greatriverfishing.com
Thats it for now. Conserve our waters and here’s to great fishing, forever…
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