Not a shortage of lakes, rivers and creeks in our area! From Kootenay Lake to the warmest tree lined lake in Western Canada, Christina Lake – the fish are never far away! To name a few of the popular fish; rainbow trout, dolly, kokanee, smallmouth bass, burbot, walleye and whitefish – you’ll never run out of opportunities to catch a fish! Fish from the shore or from any of the boat launches that can accommodate the majority of fishing boats. After the summer season is over, ice fishing is popular as the big fish come up from the depth. There are a couple of fishing charters to look into; Reel Adventures Sport Fishing Charters and Kootenay Wild.
You’ll most likely see more than fish with a wealth of wildlife including Bald Eagles, Bears, Deer, Osprey, Loons, Ducks and Geese!
Fish on Kootenay Lake near Nelson
Over 100km of river surrounded by a stunning mountainous setting. Don’t miss out on the fishing derbies on this lake; the Kootenay Lake Classic and Kootenay Lake Thanksgiving Classic. You’ll commonly catch a 5-15 lb Rainbow who have been loving the bucktail flies on the surface. Gerrald Rainbows up to 35 lbs have been reeled in on the Kootenay Lake, and Bull Trout up to 29 lbs while the average Bull Trout is 5-12lbs. Happy fishing!
Kokanee are delicious fish for eating but make sure to frequently check regulations on these Salmon fish regarding the Kokanee recovery.
Fish on Arrow Lakes near Castlegar
Numerous species of fish inhabit the Arrow Lakes; most notably Rainbow Trout, Kokanee, & Whitefish. You might even pull up a rare Sturgeon, known to grow to 6 meters in length, weigh 3900 lbs and more impressively, have a lifespan of more than 100 years! Trolling is the preferred method of fishing but you’ll also find sandy shores to fish from.
Fish on Columbia River near Trail & Castlegar
Amazing fly fishing, spin casting and world class fishing for rainbow trout and walleye on the largest river in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. This river flows all the way through the U.S border into Washington. You’ll also find Kokanee and Bull Trout. Launch your boat at any of the 5 boat launches from Castlegar to Trail. Don’t have a boat? Stop at one of the parks and jig away!
Fish on the Pend Oreille near Trail
Not only known for good Bass and Walleye fishing, but also swimming and camping and this emerald river. There is a gravel boat launch at the Buckley Campground and you must stop for the views of the 7 Mile Dam en route! The natural beauty here is miraculous.
Fish on Champion Lakes
Totally awesome fishing in 3 pristine lakes, ideal for float tube or single man pontoon boats. Non-motorized fishing, which makes for a peaceful catch. Stay the whole weekend with the family at the Provincial Campsite.