Kootenay Fishing by Kamloops Daily News

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Kootenay Key Map T

he Kootenay region, situated in British Columbia’s south-east corner, is known for rugged mountains and river valleys. The lakes in this region range from long deep trench lakes to small, highly productive trout lakes. Larger lakes featured in this guide include Kootenay, Slocan and Upper Arrow Lakes. The re-

maining lakes showcased here are considerably smaller and many are great for small crafts, even belly boats. We also feature two rivers in this guide for those who enjoy to fish moving water: the Elk River along the eastern edge of the region, and the Columbia River between Castlegar and the US border. The waters featured in this guide are only a fraction of the fabulous fishing available throughout the Kootenays. To learn more about other lakes in the region, visit our website where we profile thousands of lakes across British Columbia, or get in touch with some of our contributors and sponsors. Tight lines! We welcome feedback, and have set up our website to collect photos, map markers and other comments from users. Just visit your favourite lakes and start posting! © The Angler’s Atlas

Riondel Market Hunting & Fishing Licences ✤ Bait ✤ Fishing Tackle ✤ Liquor Outlet ✤ Groceries ✤ Fresh Baking ✤ Ice Cream ✤ Ice ✤ Fireworks ✤ Camping Supplies ✤ Post Office ✤ Videos Conveniently located...

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KOOTENAY FISHING 2013 Publisher Sean Simmons Production Co-ordinator Kathy Buhler Contributors: Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, Garred Huber Kerry Reed, Randy Martin, Rick Passek, Rod Zavaduk Advertising sales, printing and distribution managed by Glacier Media Inc. Kootenay Fishing 2013 is part of The Angler’s Atlas and is owned by Goldstream Publishing Inc. 1274 Fifth Ave. Prince George, BC V2L 3L2 (250) 596-6277 mail@anglersatlas.com www.AnglersAtlas.com

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Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Campbell Lake

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ampbell Lake has been designated one of the region’s Family Fishing Waters. These lakes are so-named because they offer convenient access and good opportunities to fish from shore or from a small b o a t . Campbell Lake has been stocked with adult and catchable sized rainbow trout, and in 2012, 1200 fish were released into the lake.

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Randy Martin from Mountain Man Outdoors says that Campbell Lake is a nice small lake, good for pontoons and float tubes. While summer fishing can be a challenge in some of the smaller lakes, patience and the right gear LAKE ACCESS can make it worthwhile. Martin ampbell Lake is located recommends smaller lures such as northeast of Kimberley. From a Panther Martin, Mepps, or Blue Kimberley, head south on Highway Foxes. 95A about 25 km. Take the HighCampbell Lake has several weedy way 3 / Highway 95 North ramp to spots where it can pay to watch Radium, and head north for about for insects emerging. If you’re fly 5 km. Take the ramp onto Highfishing, Martin suggests shrimp way 93, following this towards and leech patterns. Radium Hot Springs for about 12 km, past Fort Steele. Campbell

Lake is located on the right (east) side of the highway. Note that the lake is not marked as such, but only marked as a Rest Area. Alternately, take Highway 95A north from Kimberley, and turn right (south) onto Highway 95/93. Follow this highway south and Campbell Lake will be on your left (east). There is parking available and a day-use area. New for 2013! Now members of the Angler’s Atlas can “follow” their favourite lakes! Get new information about your local lakes as soon as it’s posted. Have something to say? Post to the pages of your favourite lakes and share videos, current conditions and tips to help out your fellow anglers. Visit www.anglersatlas.com for more information.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 5.63 Hectares (13.9 Acres) Maximum Depth • 7.2 metres (23.6 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 815 metres (2,673 feet) Survey Date • July, 1986 Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Champion Lakes C

hampion Lakes are some great family fishing lakes in Champion Lakes Provincial Park. These three lakes are great destinations on their own. As a series, they provide a wide range of fishing opportunities that will excite beginners and challenge more experienced anglers. Pick a quiet evening and head out for a run at some mayfly fishing, or later in the season, take your caddis patterns. Third Champion Lake, the first in the series, is great for a Tom Thumb.

chain, and is only accessible by hiking. Pack in a float tube and try chironomids, nymphs and dry flies such as Tom Thumbs and Wulff patterns.

Gear fishers will do well here, too, with Mepps, PanMarSome of the more spectacular fly ther tins, and fishing can be had on First Lake, Blue Fox which is, oddly enough, the last in the spinners. Anglers will find plenty of shore casting opportunities here among the forests and tranquil surSurface Area roundings. • 33.6 Hectares Total (83 Acres) Second Lake, as you may Maximum Depth • 11 to 24.3 metres have guessed, is (36 to 80 feet) the middle lake, but Elevation (ASL) the fishing here isn’t aver• ~ 1,047 metres age. The weed beds and (3,435 feet) dropoffs around the Survey Date southeast end offer • July, 1982 excellent fishing. Contour Units In the mornings, try • Metres

Quick Facts

your mayfly and damselfly variations. Champion Lakes are stocked with rainbow trout. In 2012, 5,000 fish were released into the lakes, 2,000 of which were catchable-sized. Share your experiences about Champion Lakes on the Angler’s Atlas lake page: www.anglersatlas.com/lakes/291. Sign up to follow your favourite lakes and get notified when new information is posted. LAKE ACCESS

hampion Lakes, where ice-off usually waits until May, is located past Fruitvale on Hwy 3B. Turn left at Champi- o n Lakes Road and drive 10 kilometres to the park. Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Cherry Lake

For lake and river fishing, go where the water turns from shallow to deep. Fish like to congregate and look for food in this area.

igh in the McGillivray Mountain Range, Cherry Lake is home to rainbows and cutthroats. This productive little lake is perfect for early summer fishing, and then again when the leaves turn colours and the winds blow cooler, signalling the end of the long, hot summer days.

Some of your best fly options are dry flies. Smaller, pale morning duns, blue wing olives and Tom Thumbs are good choices. At the dropoff on the southwest side, anglers can also take out their nymph patterns. A Prince Nymph, or a Hare’s Ear nymph, cast from the shallows to the depths, is productive. Cherry Lake is big enough to troll with a small boat. Troll back and forth across the shoals, from deep to shallow and back again. Panther Martins, Blue Spinners and Mepps are good choices. Want to find out when new information is posted to your favourite lakes? Sign up to follow your local lakes and be notified as soon as

Fishing Tip #1

new posts are added. Visit www.anglersatlas.com for details. LAKE ACCESS

ccess to Cherry Lake is half the fun. There are several different logging roads and access points. The easiest, however, is from Highway 3 / 93. Take the Kikomen-Newgate Road over Lake Koocanusa to the Craven Creek FSR. Follow Craven Creek FSR past the Bloom Creek FSR for four kilometres, until you see the turn off to Cherry Lake. The access road can be challenging and rough. A high clearance vehicle is needed here. Cherry Lake Rec Site is located

o n the eastern shores of Cherry Lake. After the Bailey Bridge over the Lake Koocanusa, take the second road to the left (west). Follow the Craven Creek FSR 32.5 km where the road forks. Take the right fork. Continue on the Craven Creek FSR until the fork @ 39 km. Take the right fork until 42 km where the road forks again. Take the right fork and the recreation site is on the left within the first 500 m. The Rec Site is a small, heavily treed site at the east end of Cherry Lake. Suitable for launching car-top boats and canoes. Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. © The Angler’s Atlas

Quick Facts Surface Area • 38.4 Hectares (94.9 Acres) Maximum Depth • 13 metres (42.7 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 1,227 metres (4,025.6 feet) Survey Date • July, 1982 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Duck Lake D

uck Lake is a highly productive waterbody and is known for fantastic bass fishing. The shallow nature of the lake means extensive areas have underwater plants, providing ideal bass habitat. Garred Huber of Wynndel Foods is an avid angler who loves to fish Duck Lake. Huber notes that the fishing is good all season, but makes special mention of spawning season. “It is best when ing in May only [hitch] is that during the peak

bass are spawnand June. The

spawn from May 15 - June 15, the bass are catch and release only.”

Creston Valley Wildlife MANAGEMENT Area

He suggests anglers may want to try the north end of the lake. Plastic worms and leeches work well in the summer, as do Top Water Poppers and Buzz Baits.

For flyfishers, he suggests leech patterns or a mouse imitation. Only non-motorized boats are permited on the lake. Please note that permits are required for fishing on all waters within the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area, including Duck Lake. For details on acquiring a permit visit www. crestonwildlife.ca or call 250402-6900. Please consult the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations for quotas. Wynndel Foods has a great selection of tackle for the bass found in Duck Lake. Stop by and talk with Garred Huber and his staff for more tips.

he CVWMA has a history rich in commitment and conservation. As Duck Lake is critical wildlife habitat, conservationists and biologists have joined forces to enhance and protect the area, mainly for nesting and migratory waterfowl, but also for all wildlife. The lakes and wetlands that form the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area are home to an extensive array of wildlife. Several educational initiatives contribute to our understanding of the biodiversity of the Creston Valley. Please visit the CVWMA website at www.crestonwildlife. ca for more information. LAKE ACCESS

here are several ways to access Duck Lake. Via Channel Rd. from the south, there is a boat launch on the west side of the lake. Another option is to put in along the Kootenay River. On the east side, along Hwy 3A, the town of Sirdar has a place where you can launch and store boats (with a valid permit). Please note there is no access to Hwy 3A from the dykes at Duck Lake.

Fishing Tip #2 Shiny fishing lures can attract certain fish, but the reflection of the sun can blind them and cause confusion. Use a matted metal fishing lure instead if possible, to avoid too much reflection.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 1,694 Ha (4,186 Acres) Maximum Depth • 2.5 metres (8.2 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 531.8 metres (1,745 feet) Survey Date • May, 2012

Map provided by The Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area.

Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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C olumbia R iver :

etween Castlegar and the US border lies a unique stretch of the Columbia River that offers anglers a world class rainbow trout fishery. This section of the river begins at the bottom of Keenleyside Dam and runs about 40 kilometres to Waneta, at the US border. Other game fish also inhabit this secton of the river, including burbot, kokanee, walleye and whitefish. There are a number of places to fish from shore, as well as several boat launches (see markers).

Beaver C r e e k Provincial park is an excellent location to set up camp right along the river. There is a paved single wide boat launch. It is recommended that launching of trailer towed boats should only be attempted by vehicles equipped with four wheel drive. The shoreline is rocky and not recommend for boat mooring to shore.

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Castlegar to the US Border

MAP MARKERS A. Keenleyside Dam B. Old Robson Ferry Crossing C. Boat Launch D. Train crossing E. Gyro Park F. Indian Eddy Boat Launch Anglers should be aware of several regulations for this river, including recent changes, so check the regulations for further details. For fishing tips and other helpful advice, contact one of the local tackle shops in Trail, Castlegar or Rossland.

G. Beaver Creek Provincial Park

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H. Border with the US 1951A Columbia Ave. Castlegar, BC 250-365-8288 castlegarflyshop.ca

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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1-800-796-4666 250-426-2717 901 Baker St. Cranbrook •F TI IS H ING • HUN familiar Blue Winged Olives start to work the surface. Similar to the Crowsnest these tiny Mayflies (1622) cause the trout to ignore their surroundings and begin the heavy feeding required for the long winter. Wading is easy this time of year and the temperature is often just right. Small Mayfly nymphs and emergers should work before and after they break free to the air. Tiny Pheasant Tails work well weighted and with a dab of floatant they can also imitate the emerger. The CDC blue winged olive and small Adams fool even the old wise trout at this time of year and usually the largest fish of the season are hooked in the fall. NG

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are kind to the dry fly fisher all summer long on the Elk. An old beat up royal Coachman will allow even the newest fishers a great day. Caddis hatches occur off and on primarily at night with May flies hatching almost every day. Many locals swear by the traditional patterns but many successful fishers are catching more trout on new innovative patterns. Chernobyl Ants, Turks Tarantulas, Foam Spiders and just about anything else all have their time and place on the Elk. With the increased pressure every year the trout seem to have wised up to the patterns they took in the past. If you’re more of a traditionalist don’t worry, Elk Hair Caddis, Adams and Stimulators probably still work the best.

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fly hatch on the elk is truly hit and miss. One day it can be excellent with even the big boys coming up only to have the next day quiet. If you plan on fishing this time of year be sure The headwaters of this river begin to use Stimulators at Elk Lake Provincial Park, located and Madame Xs or at the northern extent of the water- anything else large. shed. Highway three runs along Even in the early Elk River between and Sparwood season murky water and Elko, providing many good the trout will pounce access points to the river. North of the surface. Sparwood is Highway 43, which After mid July you can runs along the river to the town of count on the water being Elkford. Beyond Elkford is a log- clear and fast. If your ging road that takes you along the nymphing a strike indicariver, to the entrance of Elk Lakes tor and a heavy weight Provincial Park. is the ticket. Almost It is the region’s best known river any nymph with a and has gained a ‘must fish’ reputa- bead will catch tion with many anglers. There are fish but some cutthroat trout, ranging in size from may be bet14 to 22 inches, and bull trout from ter than others. Large brown 18 to 30 inches. and golden stones When the season opens on June work in the spring 15, the river is often a little muddy while Princes, Hare’s but with persistence and maybe a Ears and Pheasant few bright streamers the fishing Tail nymphs line can still be rewarding. Zonkers and most of the guides’ Bow River Buggers are two of the boxes all season. best and both cutthroat and dollies respond well to them. The Stone The cutthroat truly

HIKIN

he Elk River watershed is located in the south-eastern corner of British Columbia, and is nestled among the spectacular scenery of the Rocky Mountains. The river runs through the towns of Elkford, Sparwood, Fernie, and empties into Lake Koocanusa. The eastern portion of the watershed forms the border between Alberta and British Columbia.

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Elk River

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carol@fernierealestate.com

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Sharing your passion for Fernie

Carol Cohen • 250.278.0678

Page 10

• HIKI NG

Kootenay Fishing 2013

Remember to check the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations before heading out. The Elk River As the trees is Class II water when open and start turning other restrictions exist. and the crowds disperse those © The Angler’s Atlas

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Caution: Do current conditions. Uncharted hazards maymay exist. Caution: Do not not use use this this map mapfor fornavigational navigationalpurposes. purposes.This Thismap mapmay maynot notreflect reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards exist.

Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Hahas Lake H

ahas Lake has been designated one of the region’s Family Fishing Waters. These lakes are so-named because they offer convenient access and good opportunities to fish from shore. Hahas Lake has been stocked with various sizes of Blackwater and Pennask

strains of rainbow trout from ners, Panther Martins or Mepps fry to adult and catchable sized. are good choices for gear fishers. In 2012, 2,000 catchable sized trout were released into the LAKE ACCESS lake. Hahas Lake is not ahas Lake is located northeast of Kimberley. From Highway 95A, turn west onto Lost Dog Forest Service Road. Approximately 3 o v e r l y kilometres in from the highway, deep, suiting the there is a road on the left hand feeding and forag- side where Hahas Lake is locating behaviour of the ed. There is another small lake more shallow-water just to the north of Hahas called Blackwater strain. Solar Lake. While shore fishing is pos- Accommodations are available sible, Hahas Lake is probably in and around Kimberley, rangbest fished with a small boat or ing from campsites to hotels. tube. The shores of Hahas Lake There is also a cabin available to are sandy beach, and in places it rent on the north side of the lake, can be more difficult to access and several Bed and Breakfast deeper water from the shore. If options. Contact Tourism Kimyou don’t have a boat, your best berley for more information. shore fishing locations are along New for 2013! Now members of the east and west sides. the Angler’s Atlas can “follow” Randy Martin from Mountain their favourite lakes! Get new Man Outdoors says that many information about your local different fly patterns will work, lakes as soon as it’s posted. Have “though it’s not really a chirono- something to say? Post to the mid lake.” Instead, he suggests pages of your favourite lakes and that anglers try shrimp or scud share videos, current conditions patterns, small leeches or half- and tips to help out your fellow backs. anglers. Visit www.anglersatlas. Small gear should work well in com for more information. Hahas Lake, Martin © The Angler’s Atlas notes. Small spin-

Fishing Tip #3 Cast close to the shoreline for more bites.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 43 Hectares (106 Acres) Maximum Depth • 12.2 metres (40 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 909 metres (2,982 feet) Survey Date • August, 1958 Contour Units • Feet

ootenay Lake is long, large and deep, and is one of the largest lakes in the province. At over 100 kilometres long and more than 300 feet deep, Kootenay Lake offers fabulous fishing in a stunning setting, with many more aquatic and land activities to round out your trip there.

The North arm of Kootenay Lake extends from Balfour up to the very end of the lake at Argenta. The deepest area is around 450’ and shallowing off in the far north to around 300’. Fishing can be very good on the North arm of the lake, especially in the spring, although these fish are constantly moving, so, you never know. Gerrard Rainbows up to 35 Lbs have been caught in Kootenay Lake, which keeps anglers from all over the world coming back for that chance of a fish of a lifetime. More common are Rainbows between 5

Along with the Recreation Sites noted on the map, there are several other campsites and creeks. Schroeder Creek, Lost Ledge, Davis Creek, Fry Point and Campbell Bay are just a few of the others worth noting. Please visit local tourism information centres to get directions and information. A helpful website is Visit Kaslo at www.visitkaslo.com. Always consult the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations before heading out.

Fishing

Also, Kokanee salmon are a popular fish for eating. While not the biggest in size, they are definitely the best for eating. Trolling with small gang trolls and small spinners seem to work best for these tasty treats. Kerry Reed Reel Adventures Fishing Charters Nelson B.C 250-505-4963 www.reeladventuresfishing.com

ph. 250-353-2617

Adventures

Favourite lures vary with the weather conditions and time of year. When fishing the far North arm, I prefer using plugs or apex lures. Bull Trout seem to be more abundant in the North arm and they seem to prefer these lures. And for Rainbows, our favorites are bucktail flies on the surface when it’s breezy. Or plugs and apex lures when it’s calmer.

(by Reel Charters)

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Lbs – 15Lbs. Also, Bull Trout have been caught up to 29 Lbs, with the average Bulls ranging between 5 Lbs – 12 Lbs.

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Fishing on Kootenay Lake

slo, BC Ka

Kootenay Lake (North)

• Tackle • Bait • Licenses

Kerry Reed, local guide and owner of Reel Adventures Fishing Charters, knows and loves Kootenay Lake, and has shared his knowledge with our readers.

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Kootenay Fishing 2013

renspo

Quick Facts Surface Area • N/A (n/a Acres) Maximum Depth • 153.6 metres (504 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 529.7 metres (1,738 feet) Survey Date • n/a Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do nottouse for navigational purposes. This may not reflect current conditions. hazards may exist. Caution: Not be this usedmap for navigation. For navigation, use map Canadian Hydrographic Service ChartUncharted number 3050

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Kootenay Lake (South)

some of the best fishing for trophy trout is nearby. Primarily marine accessed, the park can be reached by road.

He continues, “Remember the rule of thumb for colors: Dark colors on dark days and light colors on light days. This will help increase some odds. But then again, sometimes there’s no rhyme or reason. So, you just need to be out there.” Reed notes that trolling speed is also an important factor, and depends on the weather and the season. “Spring and fall water temperatures seem to bring more aggressive fish. So a faster troll can be good. However in the heat of the summer or the dead cold of winter, slower trolling seems to produce more. You just have to experiment.” Reed reminds anglers that as in the North arm, Kokanee salmon are abundant throughout the lake. ”Trolling with small spinners and gang trolls is the ticket for these popular fish.” Kerry Reed can be reached at: Reel Adventures Fishing Charters Nelson B.C 250-505-4963 www.reeladventuresfishing.com

ferent camping options on its website: www. camping.bc.ca/kootenay_rockies/Kootenay_ lake_camping_listings. aspx Drewry Point Provincial Park lies along the western shore of Kootenay Lake. The small, three-site, user-maintained park is accessible only by boat. Located 36 km south of Balfour, this park provides protected moorage in both the north and south bays making it easy to get out of the wind. Kootenay Lake Provincial Park is actually several different sites along the west shores of Kootenay Lake. Each site has its own unique amenities. Check the BC Parks website for more detailed information. BC Parks says that Pilot Bay Provincial Park, on the eastern shores of Kootenay Lake, is the safest harbour on Kootenay Lake. Here, boaters often take shelter during summer storms when they are caught on the lake. As a bonus,

Lockhart Beach Provincial Park is the easiest park on the south arm to access, providing 18 sites and basic amenities. Along with provincial parks, there are several rec sites along the north portion of Kootenay Lake. Garland Bay, Bernard Beaches, Pebble Beach and Fletcher Creek are all options offering camping and pit toilets along Kootenay Lake. Please note that some of these sites charge fees. Please check the BC Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts for specific information about each site. Also please keep in mind that many parks and rec sites are first come, first served, and can be very busy, particularly in the summer.

he BC Camping and RV Coalition has listed several dif-

Caution: Not to be used for navigation. For navigation, use Canadian Hydrographic Service Chart number 3050.

www.reeladventuresfishing.com

Reel Adventures Charters 250.505.4963

D001470641

ishing the South arm (or main stem, as it’s also known), can be similar to the North. Kerry Reed, of Reel Fishing Adventures, says, “There seems to be more of a mix of Rainbows and Bull trout throughout this middle section of the lake. Again, the same techniques for fishing can be applied as in the North.”

Year Round Fishing!

NOTICE REGARDING MAPS FOR KOOTENAY LAKE NORTH, SOUTH AND WEST ARM: This product has been produced by Goldstream Publishing based on Canadian Hydrographic Service data, following any minimum standards / guidelines that may have been established by CHS, pursuant to CHS Paper VAR License Agreement No. 2011-0211-1260G The incorporation of data sourced from CHS in this product shall not be construed as constituting an endorsement by CHS of this product. This product does not meet the requirements of the Charts and Nautical Publications Regulations under the Canada Shipping Act. Official charts and publications, corrected and up-to-date, must be used to meet the requirements of those regulations.

Page 14

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Kootenay Lake (West Arm) F

Quick Facts Surface Area • N/A (n/a Acres) Maximum Depth • 47.9 metres (157 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 529.4 metres (1,737 feet) Survey Date • n/a

ishing in the Nelson area can be a little easier than fishing the other arms of Kottenay Lake. The West Arm, from Balfour to Nelson, offers areas where shore fishing is possible, and its smaller size makes it a little easier to explore this section.

He also reminds readers to check the regulations for Kootenay Lake regularly and for in-season changes. The West Arm is a separate fishery from the main stem of the lake.

Kerry Reed is available to help you make the most of your trip to Kootenay Lake. Contact him at: Kerry Reed, of Reel Fishing Ad- Reel Adventures Fishing ventures, notes that fishing on the Charters West Arm can be a lot different Nelson B.C than the other sections of Koote- 250-505-4963 nay Lake. www.reeladventuresfishing.com “With a few openings during the season for Kokanee, it is a popular fishery in the spring,” he says. Reed is enthusiastic about the different opportunities througho u t t h e

year. There is “great fly-fishing throughout the summer months and some fantastic Bull Trout

Contour Units • Feet

fishing throughout the winter months.” “It is a lot shallower than the main body of Kootenay Lake and is almost river-like in some areas. Depending on water levels, the currents will change throughout the year,” Reed cautions.

Let's Go Fishing!

www.reeladventuresfishing.com

Reel Adventures Charters 250.505.4963

location, great beaches, and a greater number of options and facilities for acAccommodation options commodations. are plentiful in this area. Along the West Arm Provincial Park and Kosouth side, Sunshine Bay Regional kanee Creek Provincial Park are Park has a sandy beach and a boat two of the parks along the West launch. Balfour, located at the en- Arm. West Arm Provincial Park trance to the West Arm, also has a is largely undeveloped, although boat launch and ferry services to there is walk-in wilderness campthe south side of the lake. There ing available and picnic tables at are also shore fishing options in beach areas. Campers are expected and around Balfour. to be fully self-sufficient here. KoThe West Arm of Kootenay Lake kanee Creek Provincial Park, on and the town of Nelson, offers sev- the other hand, is a popular toureral accommodation options from ist destination, providing sandy rustic campsites to hotels. Situated beaches and two campgrounds. entirely within the Selkirk Moun- Visit the Chamber of Commerce tains, it is narrower than the main website at www.discovernelson. lake and more shallow, com for more information. providing a more sheltered

Caution: Not to be used for navigation. For navigation, use Canadian Hydrographic Service Chart number 3050.

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Mitten Lake M

itten Lake is popular with waterskiers, swimmers and anglers. Although not that large, Mitten Lake’s scenery, easy accessibility and great fishing make it a very busy place, indeed. Stocked with the Gerrard strain of rainbow trout, which grow to large sizes, Mitten Lake is best fished in the deeper sections. Gerrards usually prefer to stay deeper than many other strains of rainbows, and are more likely

to be holding at the depths than rather than along the shoals. in the shallows. LAKE ACCESS Generally, and especially for Gerrards, your flies and lures itten Lake is close to should be imitating small baitParson, which is befish. These highly piscivorous tween Golden and Invermere creatures prefer to feed on fry, on Highway 95. From Parson, and will more often take to turn south onto Mitten Lake these. Greens and browns are Road and follow for about 14 good colour choices for Mitten km. The road is 2wd accesLake. sible, though it can be rough in Head out from the boat launch places. on the eastern side right where Mitten Lake is easily accesthe bay comes around. Try troll- sible and very busy. Amenities ing back and forth across the include a dock, a boat launch, depths, wheelchair-accessible toilets and a beach. There is a fee for camping here.

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts reports that the use of jet skis here is highly discouraged and may be banned. Please leave your skis at home.

Fishing Tip #4 Sunrise is an excellent time to fish, try to go out early in the morning.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 62 Hectares (153 Acres) Maximum Depth • 11.6 metres (38 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 991 metres (3,251 feet) Survey Date • July, 1982 Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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Kootenay Fishing 2013

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North Star Lake

Fishing Tip #5 Pay close attention to the movement of your line. Learn how to understand the difference between a curious fish and one that is biting so you can hook and reel it in.

orth Star Lake is another in a series of popular lakes in the southeastern Kootenay region. As is typical of many other regional lakes, North Star has extensive shoal areas around the shore.

North Star Lake has been stocked with several strains of rainbow trout, and most recently with the Blackwater strain. These fighting lunkers can grow to very large sizes in North Star Lake, perhaps because of the abundant food in this rich aquatic environment. In 2012, 4,000 trout were released into the lake.

best bet, even in the mornings and evenings, though occasionally these trout will venture Blackwater trout are mid- to closer to the surshallow-water foragers, and pre- face to feed. fer to feed more often during Because North Star Lake is at a the day. They are well-suited to relatively low elevation, fly fishNorth Star Lake, as the deeper ers can start fishing with chironosections here are confined to the mids as early as mid April. middle and west areas. The rest The lake is very clear, and there of this lake tends to be muddy in are some great hatches that can places, and shore fishing is dif- make for great dry fly fishing. ficult here. Leeches, mayfly nymphs and

the JaffrayB a y n e s Lake Road for about 5 km until you reach the branch road east to North Star Lake and the rec site. The rec site has space for 9 vehicles, along with a small boat launch.

New for 2013! Members of the Angler’s Atlas can “follow” their favourite lakes! Get information about your local lakes as soon as it’s posted. Have something to say? Post to the pages of your favourite lakes and share videos, current conditions and tips. Visit Gear fishers will find their best damselflies can all be productive www.anglersatlas.com for more success with Kwikfish, gang trolls patterns for North Star Lake. information. and spoons. Nymphs, molluscs LAKE ACCESS Map and article based on and snails are the food of choice orth Star Lake is south of Jafsource material provided by the early in the spring, and as the fray. Follow Highway 3/93 Freshwater Fisheries Society of water warms, going deep is your to Jaffray, and then south along BC.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 20.95 Hectares (51.8 Acres) Maximum Depth • 10 metres (32.8 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 847 metres (2,778 feet) Survey Date • September, 1985 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Peckhams (Norbury) Lake P

eckhams Lake, together with its neighbour to the south, are formally known as Norbury Lakes. Peckhams Lake is a great little spot just east of Cranbrook. It is home to a thriving trout fishery. This popular lake is one of two in Norbury Lake Provincial Park. While many lakes in the Cranbrook area are not known for their chironomid fishing, Peckhams Lake is an exception, with good chironomid fishing starting in April and continuing into June.

gresses. At these times, it’s even more important to get down deep. Fast-sinking lines and weighted gear will help. As well, when possible fish in the early mornings and later in the evenings for best success. As the fall moves in and the water cools, chironomid fishing is once again a good method for fishing Peckhams Lake. Shrimp and leeches are also popular fall patterns here.

The park has a large campsite with 46 sites, located at Norbury Lake to the south of Peckhams. Both lakes have water, pit toilets, and small boat launches. Motorized boats are not allowed.

Research the region you will be fishing in to find out what kinds of fish live there and the things they like.

LAKE ACCESS

eckhams Lake is just east of Cranbrook. Follow Highway 3 / 93 to Fort Steele and turn east onto the WardnerFort Steele Road. Follow this Just to for about 16 km. Just past the t h e junction with Fenwick Road is Peckhams Lake.

Lure fishers can try a variety of gear from Kwikfish to small spoons. As various types of rainbow trout have been stocked here, trout may be found at varying water depths at various times in the season. Peckhams Lake does suffer through the summer doldrums. As well, the fishing pressure increases as the season pro-

south of Peckhams, Norbury Lake also supports a good rainbow fishery, as well as a thriving cutthroat fishery. The best time for Norbury Lake is also in the spring and fall. This lake is stocked with rainbow trout from both the Gerrard and Fraser Valley strains, including catchable - sized.

Fishing Tip #6

Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 13.5 Hectares (33.4 Acres) Maximum Depth • 9.4 metres (30.8 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 835 metres (2,739.5 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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Contour Units • Metres

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Survey Date • June 1987

There is a provincial park at the southern end of the lake, which includes hiking trails leading to several smaller lakes also stocked with trout. They are Turtle, Canuck Yankee, and Cats Eye Lakes, and are between 20 to 45 minutes from the campground.

1-800-796-4666 250-426-2717 901 Baker St. Cranbrook •F TI IS H ING • HUN LAKE ACCESS PIN

Elevation (ASL) • 860 metres (2,822 feet)

New for 2013! Now members of the Angler’s Atlas can “follow” their favourite lakes! Get new information about your local lakes as soon as it’s posted. Have something to say? Post to the pages of your favourite lakes and share videos, current conditions and tips to help out your fellow anglers. Visit www.anglersatlas. com for more information.

erness Your Wildction Conne

Maximum Depth • 32.5 metres (107 feet)

In the heat of summer, troll leeches and bead-head nymphs on full sink lines at the dropoffs on the east side. Dry flies can be especially productive in the evenings. The southwest end is good for spring fishing.

There are special restrictions on Premier Lake. A southern closure between May 15 and June 20, is in effect although the rest of the lake is still open. A speed restriction is in place for the southern half of the lake, where no towing/water skiing is allowed.

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Surface Area • 190 Hectares (469 Acres)

There is a concrete boat launch located past the day use area.

HIKIN

Quick Facts

remier Lake lies against the western edge of the Rocky Mountains and its emerald green waters are a favorite destination for many travellers through the Kootenays. Premier Lake is heavily stocked with rainbow trout. In 2012, 50,000 trout were released into the lake.

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Kootenay Fishing 2013

rom Cranbrook travel 72 km north along Highway 93/95, to a paved road on the right (east) leading to the park.

The provincial park has 57 campsites, ten of which can be reserved.

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Rockbluff Lake R

ockbluff Lake is one of the best fishing lakes in the Kootenays, with scenery to match. The ice comes off this lake a little later than at some others, and the trout are hungry and ready for action. Rockbluff Lake is long and deep in some places, though most of its water is in the middepth range. The Pennask rainbow trout that are stocked here are fighters and known for their jump. They also prefer the deep water, and are most active in the evening. In 2012, the lake was stocked with 2,000 trout. Just after ice off, try chironomids if you’re fly fishing. It’s well worth learning to fish these patterns properly and effectively, as chironomids make up a very large part of the diet of most trout in the province. Try the areas around the islands in the south and right around the middle eastern side of the lake. Another tip for fly fishers is to move from wet flies at the beginning of a hatch, to dry flies as the hatch progresses. Kwikfish, lake trolls and Hildebrandt spoons can be very effective here. Good colours to try are blue and silver or green

Fishing Tip #7 Be patient. Patience really is the key to good fishing. Remember that good things come to those who wait.

and silver combinations. LAKE ACCESS

rom Cranbrook travel 72 km north along Highway 93/95, to a paved road on the right (east) leading to the park. Keep going past the park; it is a short drive to Rockbluff Lake. There is a parking area at the south end of the lake and an outhouse. Camping is available at Premier Lake Provincial Park, with 57 campsites, a playground, water pumps, a boat launch and pit toilets. Along with the provincial park, there are several other accommodation options. Springbrook Resort is located south of Premier Lake at Skookumchuck along the Kootenay River. It offers travellers all type of accomodations from motel to self contained cabins, Seasonal RV to over night tenting and RV Park and is a great launch point for exploring the great lakes and rivers in the area.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 19.8 Hectares (49 Acres) Maximum Depth • 25.6 metres (84 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 762 metres (2,500 feet)

Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Survey Date • August, 1961 Contour Units • Feet © The Angler’s Atlas

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Fishing Tip #8

Rosebud Lake R

osebud Lake is a pretty little spot west of Creston. This is one of the region’s Family Fishing Waters, and it is an excellent place to teach youngsters and beginners about the joys of fishing. Despite being a popular lake, Rosebud Lake is not usually crowded. 1,500 rainbow trout were stocked in Rosebud Lake in 2012. Ice off occurs in around April, and early chironomid fishing is

superb. Try short leaders and fish in the shallows near the shore. Chironomid fishing continues well into early June. Mayflies in their various forms are the food of choice into early summer. When you’re matching the hatch, try to change up your patterns through the day, as the insects go through their various stages of emergence. Dragon and damselflies are good choices for mid summer. One of the best times for fishing is in the fall, when the waterboatmen take flight. Fishing waterboatmen patterns is exciting and can make for some fast action as the trout key in on these small silver bullets. If you’re gear fishing, one of the best ways to teach children to fish is with a simple cast and retrieve. Another effective technique is to still fish -- cast or drop your line into the water, and jig a little, or troll slowly back and forth across the shoals.

Switch up lures regularly to determine what the fish are preferring for a particular day.

LAKE ACCESS

rom Salmo, head east on Highway 3 for about 14 km, and take Highway 6 for about 9 km towards the US / Canada border. Turn left onto Rosebud Lake Road and head down another 6 km to Rosebud Lake. Facilities are minimal at Rosebud Lake. There’s a small cartop boat launch and wilderness camping available, as well as an outhouse. Fuller facilities are available in Salmo and in Creston. New for 2013! Now members of the Angler’s Atlas can “follow” their favourite lakes! Get new information about your local lakes as soon as it’s posted. Have something to say? Post to the pages of your favourite lakes and share videos, current conditions and tips to help out your fellow anglers. Visit www. anglersatlas.com for more information. Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 13.3 Hectares (33 Acres) Maximum Depth • 17 metres (56 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 809 metres (2,654 feet) Survey Date • 1949 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Slocan Lake

locan Lake, one of the few large non-dammed lakes in this region of British Columbia, is cool, beautiful and pristine. Slocan Lake is home to the Gerrard strain of rainbow trout, as well as kokanee. Gerrard rainbow trout feed heavily on kokanee, and tend to do very well when there are kokanee to be had. They tend to dwell in the depths of deeper lakes, and the conditions in Slocan Lake are ideal for their large growth. The Slocan Chamber of Commerce website says that fishing tends to be best at the creek mouths, “either from boats or floating flies out with the current.” In the early spring, when the trout are hungry, go after the trout with silver colour combinations if you’re gear fishing. In clear water, bait fish may take on these silver and blue colours in order to better blend in with their environment. Lures and flies should take on these hues. If you’re targetting the trout, almost without question, your lures and flies should resemble bait fish. After they reach a certain size, a Gerrard’s diet changes from

o n e consisting mostly of insect and invertebrates, to one consisting mostly of other fish. Please note that all of Slocan Lake’s tributaries are subject to a bull trout release, and there are many restrictions in place for the Slocan River. Please consult the BC

Freshwater Fishing Regulations before heading out. Visit the Slocan Lake page on the Angler’s Atlas website to share your stories, tips and photos. See www.anglersatlas.com/lakes/1710.

Fishing Tip #9 While wading through rivers and streams avoid wearing bright colours or plain white, as it often spooks fish. Wear drab colours to blend in with the background as much as possible.

LAKE ACCESS

alhalla Provincial Park, along the western shores of Slocan Lake, is a wild, rugged, wilderness with glacial lakes, waterfalls and backcountry trails. Some camping is possible here; check BC Parks for further information on services and amenities. Accommodation is available in the towns of Roseberry, New Denver, Silverton and Slocan; check the Slocan District Chamber of Commerce website for great information about Slocan Lake, the area, and the surrounding trails: www.slocanlake.com. The Chamber of Commerce publishes an excellent guide to the lake, the surrounding parks, accommodations and trails. Visit their website for more.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 6,928 Hectares (17,121 Acres) Maximum Depth • 298 metres (978 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 534.9 metres (1,755 feet) Survey Date • 1965 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

Kootenay Fishing 2013

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St. Mary Lake

St. Mary, Elk, Bull Rivers Upper Columbia River www.stmaryangler.com

t. Mary Lake is a popular fishing and canoeing destination between Kimberley and Marysville. In the past it was stocked with rainbow and cutthroat trout. Nowadays, the lake is home to a wide variety of fish species.

1-800-667-2311 401 Cranbrook St. N. Cranbrook, BC V1C 3R5

This is a fly Check out the new feature on the Angler’s Atlas website! Now members can follow their favourite lakes and Experts, and be notified whenever new information is posted. Visit www.anglersatlas.com for details.

never gets too rough. Care is required fisher’s paradise, once you leave the lake and naviand fall is prime sea- gate the river. son. While the weath- Fall is also prime season for river LAKE ACCESS er may be changeable in the fishing, and St. Mary River is no t. Mary Lake is located fall, the fishing is still hot. exception. The trout are feeding between Kimberley and It seems that virtually every kind of heavily in preparation for winter. Marysville. From Kimberley, trout resides in St. Mary Lake. This The river is productive, and this drive south on Highway 95A for makes the options for fly patterns adds to the quality of the fishery. about 5 kilometres. Turn west on nearly endless. Stoneflies, caddis and mayflies are St. Mary’s Lake Road and drive It’s a good idea for anglers to cast all available food sources for the about 20 kilometres to the lake. trout. to the rising trout in the evenings. The Kimberley Riverside Anglers can try Royal Wulffs and Please note that special regulations Campground is located nearby, other attractor patterns. Stimulators apply to the St. Mary River, and and several accomodation options and hoppers are good to have on St. Mary Lake is catch and release exist in town. for burbot. Please consult the BC hand. Freshwater Fishing Regulations for If you’re using hardware, you can information. For more information try trolling Flatfish. about fishing local lakes and rivers, St. Mary Lake is a good lake for stop by your local tackle shops and canoes and small boats because it get up to date information. © The Angler’s Atlas

Guided Fly Fishing Trips

Quick Facts Surface Area • 295 Hectares (729 Acres) Maximum Depth • 21 metres (69 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 960 metres (3,150 feet) Survey Date • June 1959 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Summit Lake S

day-use as well as a campground. The islands near the campground are nesting grounds for shoreSummit Lake also has good ice birds. You’ll also find eagles, fishing. Larger flies will be the way hawks and kingfishers. Please be to go for winter, and Zavaduk says very careful in these areas, and he will go with Pheasant Tails, or watch where you step. It’s best to Rod Zavaduk from Castlegar Fly Red Chironomids, in size 10. leave dogs back at your camp. The Centre and Sports Shop, offers Please check the BC Freshwater areas north of the park are home some great advice for fishFishing Regulations for to grizzlies, mountain goats and ing Summit Lake. quota information. cougars. “The ice is off early Stop by The campground has 35 sites here, and right away Castlegar available, all of them smaller sites. you can go with chiF l y There is a boat launch, picnic area ronomids and leeches. and well water available. Sites are When the lake turns, the available on a first-come, firstfishing slows a bit, but it served basis. turns quickly and is clear again,” says Zavaduk. outheast of Nakusp, Summit Lake is located within Summit Lake Provincial Park. Known for its mountain goats and toadlet events, Summit Lake also boasts fabulous fly fishing.

“All wet flies are the ticket,” in the fall, Zavaduk suggests.

Chironomids, damsel and dragonflies, and sedges are good patterns for early in the season, he says. In early summer, good trolling flies are leeches, damselflies and minnows. Chironomid fishing warms up as the season progresses. “Chironomids are great, period,” Centre Zavaduk notes. a n d In early summer, try Carey pat- Sports Shop terns, which work well because in Castlegar and of the sedge hatch. In the heat of talk with Rod Zavaduk the summer, Zavaduk suggests get- for some expert advice. LAKE ACCESS ummit Lake is located just southeast of Nakusp along Closer to the end of summer, sedges continue to work well, along Hwy. 6. with many other dry flies. As fall Summit Lake approaches, work with leeches Provincial Park again, dragonflies, and damselflies. has amenities for ting deeper with beadhead leeches, olive or black Mini Leeches.

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Quick Facts Surface Area • 12 Hectares (30 Acres) Maximum Depth • 8.2 metres (27 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 1,480 metres (4,856 feet) Survey Date • June, 1971 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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The Gerrard strain will feed on insects and small invertebrates in their smaller states, however as they reach the larger sizes, their feeding habits LAKE ACCESS change and they focus almost hiteswan Lake is locatexclusively on other fish. Lures ed in Whiteswan Lake and flies, therefore, will want to Provincial Park. Access to the imitate baitfish. park can be challenging, and The other lake in the park is BC Parks warns users to exerAlces Lake, which has been cise extreme caution at all times Medium sized spoons and spin- stocked with rainbows as well. when driving in. Please consult ners work well here. Fly fishing This stunning alpine lake is a their website for further inforis great here as well. Some of fabulous fishery in itself and is mation: www.env.gov.bc.ca/ bcparks. There are hotsprings, the most productive patterns can worth the trip. be midges or damselflies. Work Now Angler’s Atlas members can camping and boat launches the dropoffs or the edges of the follow their favourite lakes, and available. be notified whenever new infor-

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Quick Facts Surface Area • 378 Hectares (934 Acres) Maximum Depth • 19.3 metres (63 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 1,127 metres (3,698 feet) Survey Date • June 1987 Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

D001466698

large sizes.

mation is posted. Visit www.anglersatlas.com for details. Members can also add tips, photos and stories to lake pages. See the Whiteswan Lake page at www. anglersatlas.com/lakes/2069.

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1-800-796-4666 250-426-2717 901 Baker St. Cranbrook •F TI IS H ING • HUN

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Whiteswan Lake was last stocked with rainbow trout from the Gerrard strain in 2009. These lunkers are a real treat for anglers, as they put up a good fight and grow to very

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Outdoor Canada magazine has even named Whiteswan Lake one of the top lakes in Canada for rainbow trout. The best time for fishing this great fishery is in early spring, and again in the fall. The lake is deep enough that it won’t necessarily suffer through the summer doldrums, however, the fish are always more active when they’re feeding heavily right before or after winter.

Man n i a t n u Mo s Outdoor

marl flats.

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hiteswan Lake, in southeastern British Columbia, is a beautiful lake surrounded by high, craggy mountain peaks. One of two amazing lakes in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park, Whiteswan Lake offers excellent fishing for rainbow trout.

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carol@fernierealestate.com

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Upper Arrow Lake

pper Arrow Lake, and its counterpart, Lower Arrow Lake, are reservoirs formed from a dam of the Columbia River at Castlegar. Water levels fluctuate, sometimes significantly. Nevertheless, there is still great fishing to be had. Like many lakes in the Kootenays, Upper Arrow Lake is stocked with the Gerrard strain of rainbow trout.

bigger fish seems to be around the 50 degree mark. As it gets colder throughout the winter, make sure to slow down your presentation, as these fish seem to slow down also,” Reed suggests.

Local fishing guide, Kerry Reed, owner of Reel Adventures Fishing Charters, says that fall and winter are his favourite times to fish Upper Arrow Lake.

Please bear in mind that Upper Arrow Lake is subject to several different regulations and exemptions. Please be familiar with the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations before heading out.

“Early in the fall we can catch most Bull Trout and Rainbows on the downrigger at depths between 50 - 100ft. Although as the water temperature drops to the magic number, we will start catching more and more on the surface,” Reed notes. For bull trout, Reed says, “My favorite lures of choice are Apex lures, Lyman plugs, and a flasher/ hoochie combo from the surface down to 100ft.” Darker colours such as shades of purple can work well in the winter. Try varying your speed according to the weather. In warmer weather, try trolling at a speed just a little faster than you would in the winter.

Kerry Reed is available to help you make the most of your trip to Kootenay Lake. Contact him at: Reel Adventures Fishing Charters Nelson B.C 250-505-4963 www.reeladventuresfishing.com

Quick Facts Surface Area • 22,947 Hectares (56,704 Acres)

LAKE ACCESS

here are a number of access options between Nakusp and Revelstoke, and several accommodation options. There are provincial parks and rec sites, with varying services and amenities. There are also accommodations available in Nakusp and Revelstoke.

Maximum Depth • 289 metres (948 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 431.3 metres (1,415 feet) Survey Date • July, 1949

“The magic temperature for the

Contour Units • © The Angler’s Atlas

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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Kootenay Fishing 2013

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Wapiti Lake W

apiti Lake has been designated one of the region’s Family Fishing Waters. These lakes are so-named because they offer convenient access and good opportunities to fish from shore.

piti Lake, including “Old Faithful”, the Five of Diamonds. Mepps and Panther Martins are standards that can produce well, too. The spoon should be jigged. Reel it in, then stop. Play around Another reason to fish this lake with the movement. is because the Freshwater Fish- LAKE ACCESS eries Society of BC stocks it apiti Lake is located off with trout every spring. 1,600 Shelborn Road, West of brook trout and 1,000 rainbow Highway 3 / 93. Either follow trout were released into Wapiti Shelborn Road from Jaffray or Lake in 2012. exit onto Rosicky Road if headSome of the trout can grow to ing south from Wardner, and 4 pounds. A small boat or float turn south onto Shelborn Road. tube works best to fish Wapiti Lake, especially to reach the There are Forest Service Rec shoals where the trout are lurk- sites on the north and east sides ofthe lake with pit toilets availing. able. Wapiti Lake is surrounded by lily pads. The rich vegetation New for 2013! Now members makes for prolific insect popula- of the Angler’s Atlas can “foltions, and as a result, the fish get low” their favourite lakes! Get new information about your loquite large. cal lakes as soon as it’s postOn occasion, Wapiti Lake is ed. Have something to subject to winter kill, but when this doesn’t happen, the trout are even larger the following season.

Really good fishing can start as early as April. There are good chironomid hatches, and it’s worthwhile to try scud patterns, damselflies and leeches.

say? Post to the pages of your favourite lakes and share videos, current conditions and tips to help out your fellow anglers. Visit www.anglersatlas.com for more information. Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 20 Hectares (50 Acres) Maximum Depth • 9.75 metres (32 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 762 metres (2,500 feet) © The Angler’s Atlas

Survey Date • July, 1960 Contour Units • Feet

Several lures will work on WaCaution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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Whitetail Lake

Sharing your passion for Fernie

Carol Cohen • 250.278.0678 carol@fernierealestate.com

hitetail Lake is a popular fishing spot, managed for trophy Gerrard rainbow trout. Whitetail Lake is stocked and is also a popular family lake and is great for a weekend getaway.

are closed to fishing all year.

Stop by any of the local taackle shops in Cranbrook Along with rainbow trout, or Kimberley to Whitetail Lake supports a find out the latest good population of brook reports on this lake. trout. Try an Elkwing Caddis when targetting the brook LAKE ACCESS trout. Pay particular attention hitetail Lake is to the weedy areas. located north of Canal Flats. From Canal When going after the trophy Flats, head north for about Gerrard rainbow trout, chi4 kilometres on Highway ronomids are often a good 93 / 95. Turn west onto the standard choice. Anglers can Findlay Creek Forest Service also try a gray beard nymph Road. Follow the signs to the or a caddis. Lure fishers may Blue Lake Forestry Camp want to try a size 6 or 7 Kwikfish. Choose a colour along the Findlay FSR and that’s closest to what’s in the the Deer Lake FSR. Do not lake. Greens are good choic- turn off to Blue Lake at the 23.5 km mark. Stay right es for Whitetail Lake. at the 25.5 mark, and take Please check the BC another right turn to the F r e s h wa t e r F i s h i n g Whitetail Lake Rec Site. This Regulations for information road is passable with trailers about Whitetail Lake before and 2WD, though it may be heading out. There are gear quite bumpy in sections. restrictions in place, as well as a quota in effect. Also The Forest Service Rec Site note that the inlet and outlet offers space for 32 vehicles, streams for Whitetail Lake with most sites being shad-

ed and offering good access to the lake. This is a popular site that is busy on weekends. Please note that the second group of sites does not have a turnaround area for trailers.

Guided Fly Fishing Trips St. Mary, Elk, Bull Rivers Upper Columbia River www.stmaryangler.com

1-800-667-2311 401 Cranbrook St. N. Cranbrook, BC V1C 3R5

Quick Facts Surface Area • 162 Hectares (400 Acres) Maximum Depth • 19.2 metres (63 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 1,066 metres (3,497 feet) Survey Date • June 1959 © The Angler’s Atlas

Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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Kootenay Fishing 2013

Page 31

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Wilbur Lake W

ilbur Lake is a small lake west of Highway 95, north of Mitten Lake. This relatively shallow lake is a high elevation body of water, set among a series of great fishing lakes.

and prefer the mid-level waters fishing, and how it differs from for foraging. fly fishing other patterns.

Going after these trout, chironomids are a great place to start if you’re fly fishing. Rick Passek, author and instructor, notes that chironomid fishing, Wilbur Lake is stocked by the when done properly, can be Freshwater Fisheries Society highly rewarding and exciting. of BC with Pennask rainbow It’s definitely worthwhile to trout. These are feisty, fight- take the time to learn ing fish, feeding heavily on c h i r o n o m i d chironomids. They tend to be most active in the evening,

Several different lures can work here. Spinners and spoons are good to try, and plugs seem to do really well in landing trout. LAKE ACCESS

ilbur Lake is located west of Parson. There are several logging roads in the area, and your best bet is to consult a good road map for these roads. From Parson, follow the Crestbrook Main Road southwest. Stay on this road past the Spillimacheen North FSR, and the turn off to Wilbur Lake will be on your right. There is a small rec site at Wilbur Lake, with pit toilets and a small boat launch.

WestviewMarina.com

250.934.7672

Quick Facts Surface Area • 12 Hectares (30 Acres) Maximum Depth • 10 metres (33 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 1,277 metres (4,190 feet) Survey Date • July, 1982

Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

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Kootenay Fishing 2013

Page 32

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Windermere Lake

www.invermerehardware.ca 9980 Arrow Road, Invermere, BC

250-342-6908

indermere Lake is one of the most popular lakes in all of southeastern British Columbia, and for good reason. The recreational opportunities are endless and the fishing is fabulous. Like some other lakes in the southern part of the province, Windermere Lake is becoming known as a bass fishing hotspot. choice Brian MacKenzie from for the Invermere Home Hardware m i n notes that the lake is fairly con- now lures. sistent all year round. Ice fish- Frogs can be ing for bass is a popular win- fished in a numter activity among locals, and ber of ways, from although it is relatively shallow, skimming along the fishing can be good even in the surface to imitating a hopping action the heat of the summer. among the weeds. Try “Bass have only moved into the to keep the action as lake in the past 3 or 4 years,” realistic as possible, but says MacKenzie. “There have don’t be afraid to experibeen bass in the creeks, among ment with your technique. the weeds, for a long time, but as the weeds have crept into the LAKE ACCESS lake, the bass have moved in.” indermere Lake is To fish the bass, he says he is located north of selling quite a few 3 inch frog Cranbrook. From Cranbrook, and minnow lurers. Chartreuse is follow Cranbrook St. North a good colour for the frogs, and to Highway 3B / Highway 95. a rainbow trout colour is a good Take the ramp onto Highway

93 / 95 and follow the Highway for 32 kilometres. Stay right to keep on the Highway and follow this road for another 90 km. There are several access points to the lake along the highway. Accommodation is available at one of the many resorts in the area, and also in the town of Invermere, on the north shore of the lake. There are also camping options at Dry Gulch Provincial Park or at Kootenay National Park, where there are 3 major campgrounds. There is a day use area just north of the town of Windermere, at James Chabot Provincial Park. A boat launch and sandy beach are available, along with picnic tables, water and pit toilets. © The Angler’s Atlas

WE CARRY A FULL LINE OF DRAGONFLY FLY RODS, REELS, LINES AND ACCESSORIES. ALSO A LARGE SELECTION OF FLIES AND FLY TYING ITEMS.

www.invermerehardware.ca

9980 Arrow Road

Invermere, BC 250-342-6908

Quick Facts Surface Area • 1,610 Hectares (3,978 Acres) Maximum Depth • 6.4 metres (21 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 800 metres (2,624 feet) Survey Date • August, 1958 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist.

www.invermerehardware.ca 9980 Arrow Road • Invermere, BC 250-342-6908

Kootenay Fishing 2013

Page 33

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

2012 Kootenay Trout Stocking Report Waterbody Name

Species

Released

Waterbody Name

Species

Released

AOSTA LOWER

WCT

1,000

DUNCAN RESERVOIR

56,872

ECHO NORTH

1,000

ECHO SOUTH

1,500

EDWARDS

10,000

EIMAR

200

ENGLISHMAN

2,000

ENID

5,250

FENWICK

500

FISH

1,500

FISHER MAIDEN

500

FROZEN

WCT

AOSTA UPPER

WCT

500

BARREN

WCT

1,000

BARRETT

2,000

BAYNES

1,050

BEAR

1,500

BEAR

1,500

BEAR

2,000

BEAR

WCT

1,000

BEAVER

2,000

BEAVER

2,000

BIG FISH

4,484

BITTERN

4,000

BLACKWATER

2,200

BOX

6,000

BRONZE

3,600

BURTON

500

BURTON

250

CAMERON

6,000

CAMPBELL

1,500

CANUCK

1,000

CANYON #1

2,000

CANYON #2

2,000

CARTWRIGHT

8,000

CATHERINE

2,000

CEDAR #1

2,000

CEDAR #2

2,000

CEDAR #3

2,000

CEDAR #4

2,000

CHAIN #2

4,000

CHAMPION

6,000

CHAMPION

3,000

CHAMPION

2,000

CLELAND

2,500

COTTONWOOD

2,550

DEEP

500

DIAMOND

DOGSLEG DOROTHY

Species

Released

LOST

1,500

MARION

5,540

MCCLAIN

1,000

MCNAIR NORTH

500

MCNAIR SOUTH

WCT

1,000

MILFORD

1,000

MIRROR

1,000

MITE

WCT

500

MITTEN

10,000

MONROE

10,000

1,000

MONROE

10,000

MONUMENT

WCT

1,000

MOOSE

1,000

35,017

MOYIE

65,000

1,000

MOYIE

30,000

1,000

MOYIE (NORTH)

115,000

MOYIE (NORTH)

30,000

MUD

1,000

MUD

750

NANCY GREENE

6,000

NEW

2,000

NINE

1,500

FUSEE

1,500

FUSEE

750

GRAVE

GREY HORSE #1 GRUNDY HALFWAY

HARTLEY

WCT

1,000

HORSESHOE

5,846

IDLEWILD

2,000

JADE

1,000

JEB

2,500

JOYCE

500

JUBILEE

500

KIAKHO

WCT

1,500

LARCHWOOD

1,500

LAZY

4,000

LEECH PONDS

1,000

LILLIAN

6,000

LISBON

1,500

LITTLE MITTEN

500

LITTLE MONROE

Waterbody Name

750

WCT

3,000

LITTLE WILSON

3,000

500

LOON

1,000

LOON

5,000

500

LOON

2,000

NORBURY

1,500

NORTH STAR

4,000

PECKHAMS

3,250

PICKERING

3,600

PICKERING

2,000

PREMIER

50,164

ROCKBLUFF

2,000

ROCKY POINT

2,500

ROSEBUD

1,500

ROSEN

3,000

RYAN PARK

500

SAM'S FOLLY

1,000

SEVEN MILE

WCT

2,000

Kootenay Fishing 2013

Stock Species Codes: EB

Eastern Brook Trout (Char)

Kokanee

Rainbow Trout

WCT

Western Cutthroat Trout

For more information on Fish Stocking in British Columbia, visit:

www.GoFishBC.com

Page 34 Waterbody Name

Species

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com Released

SILVER SPRING #1

500

SILVER SPRING #2

500

SIWASH

2,000

SOUTH CARIBOU

2,000

SPRING

2,500

SPURR

500

STEAMBOAT

500

Waterbody Name

Species

STONEY

2,000

STONEY POTHOLE

500

SUMMIT

5,000

SUMMIT

2,000

SUMMIT

2,000

SUSAN

4,000

SUZANNE

10,000

TAMARACK

4,000

THREE ISLAND

1,000

TOPAZ

500

TWIN LAKES

1,000

WCT

2,000

WAPITI

1,600

WAPITI

1,000

WHITETAIL

12,000

WILBUR

1,000

WILLIAMSON

1,050

WILMER

2,000

WILSON

2,000

WCT

1,000

UPPER HALGRAVE

WOODENSHOE

Go fishing before their childhood becomes the one that got away.

This season, share the joy and relaxation of fishing with your kids. Or introduce a friend to the sport. Before you go, check out our latest stocking reports, pick up tips from the pros and learn how to get your licence at gofishbc.com

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