VANCOUVER ISLAND FISHING by Kamloops Daily News

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013 2 Ed. nd

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CAMPBELL RIVER 1444 Island Highway 250-286-0188 COURTENAY 278 Old Island Highway 250-338-0101 DUNCAN 2929 Green Road 250-748-0161 PORT ALBERNI 3550 Johnston Rd. 250-720-0085

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

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Vancouver Island Key Map

ancouver Island is located in the south-west corner of British Columbia, and is part of a temperate rain forest that hugs the Pacific coast. The island is known for fabulous fishing, both saltwater and freshwater, and this guide provides detailed maps for both types fishing.

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On the freshwater side, the island has lakes and rivers that VANCOUVER ISLAND FISHING 2013 Publisher Sean Simmons

Production Co-ordinator Kathy Buhler

Contributors: Pat Ahern, Travis Atkinson, Lorna Duncan, John Falavolito, Marcus Kennett, Richard Kennett, Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, Rick Passek. Advertising sales, printing and distribution managed by Glacier Media Inc. Vancouver Island 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

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are home to rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee, brown trout and even smallmouth bass. In this guide, we have featured 22 lakes of various size and characteristics and one river (Cowichan). Many of the lakes featured in this guide are regularly stocked with rainbow trout and cutthroat trout, as part of a provicinal stocking program operated by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. Moving into saltwater, the island is famous for its salmon fishery. But also important are the halibut and ling cod fisheries, as well as plenty of opportunities for prawning. We have featured two famous

west coast fisheries in the guide this year. One is of Barkley Sound and the other is around Tahsis, capturing Esperanza Inlet and Nootka Sound.

The guide provides a taste of the fishing opportunities on the island, but for more detailed maps and many other places to fish visit The Angler’s Atlas

website and download a map. New this year, anglers can follow their favourite fishing places and stay informed as new information is posted. www.AnglersAtlas.com

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Atluck Lake

84 Dogwood, Campbell River 250-286-0231 www.royalcoachmaninn.ca

he parks and lakes on the northern end of Vancouver Island showcase the best of the Island’s rugged wilderness, with towering mountains, cold and clear pristine lakes, and dense oldgrowth coniferous forests. Atluck Lake, south of Port McNeill, is one of the best of the area’s spectacular lakes. Atluck Lake is large and deep, and has great underwater structure. Islands, streams and sharp dropoffs characterize the southern half of the lake, while more gradual depths and streams dominate the north. This is also where the boat launch and campsite are located. At one time, Atluck Lake was stocked with rainbows. Now, however, the lake’s naturally producing population of rainbows, cutthroats and dolly varden keep this fishery thriving.

spoon or spinner. Troll out from the boat launch and through the dropoff areas. Some of the best structure is around the islands nearer the south side. Be aware that sudden winds can whip down this narrow lake. Please use caution in small boats. Fly fishers will succeed with standard patterns and presentations. Woolly buggers and olive scuds are two such patterns to try. Atluck Lake flows into Nimpkish Lake to the north. Nimpkish Lake attracts people for all manner of aquatic activities from windsurfing on the wilder southern end, and fishing in the calmer north end.

time, Anutz Lake was stocked with cutthroat trout, and now is home to a self-sustaining fishery for cutthroats, rainbows and dollies.

Take a look at the Angler’s Atlas page for Atluck Lake at www. anglersatlas.com/lakes/64. There you can post pictures, tips and hotspots, and share your stories with other members. Follow your favourite lakes to be notified when new information is posted!

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Just south of Nimpkish Lake lies Anutz Lake, another popular fishing spot. At o n e

Atluck Lake receives little pressure, and rainbows and cutthroats can be enticed with a well-presented plug,

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L A K E ACCESS

tluck Lake is located about 50 km south of Port McNeill. Access is via Highway 19. Head down Highway 19 for about 42 km. Turn onto Atluck Rd. and follow this for about 14 km to the rec site at the north end of the lake. The rec site has pit toilets and a boat launch. © The Angler’s Atlas

Surface Area •308.4 Hectares (762 Acres) Maximum Depth •77.4 metres (254 feet) Elevation (ASL) •137 metres (450 feet) Survey Date • May, 1971 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Antler Lake

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retty little Antler Lake, while not that deep or large, supports a thriving fishery. This popular spot just north of the town of Gold River, works well for a quick evening troll or a weekend getaway. Antler Lake offers abundant habitat in the form of shoals and aquatic plants, particularly at the southeast end. This area, known as Yellow Pond, is an ideal location to start your search. Both cutthroat and rainbows are present in Antler Lake; the cutthroat are native, and the catchable sized rainbows are stocked. In 2012, the BC Freshwater Fisheries Society released 750 catchable-sized rainbow trout into Antler Lake. The best time to fish here is in the spring. Early fall is productive as well, as the fish intensify their activity and feeding. All sorts of lures work well here, and your best bet is to stock your standards, though at times the cutthroat will prefer larger lures

517 Island Hwy., Campbell River www.passageviewmotel.com email: passageviewmotel@gmail.com or flatfish. Kwikfish or small spoons are good bets as well. For those casting or trolling flies on Antler, there are a number of reliable patterns to have on hand. Leeches are always promising. Damsel and dragonfly nymph patterns work well for mid-summer. Caddisflies and sedges are also good mid-season patterns. Later in the season, egg patterns can work wonders. General searching fly patterns, such as Woolly Buggers, Careys, halfbacks and the Spratleys, imitate a range of food sources for rainbow and cutthroat trout, and are excellent attractors any time of the year. The flies can be trolled with a full-sink line close to the bottom. Check out the new feature on the Angler’s Atlas website! Now members can follow their favourite lakes and Experts, and be noti-

TOLL FREE 1-877-286-1156 250-286-1156 fied whenever new information is posted. Visit www. anglersatlas.com for details. LAKE ACCESS

ntler Lake is located 3 km north of Gold River off the Gold River Main Rd (also known as East Rd and Hwy 28). Turn right at the ‘Y’ in the road before the bridge. There is a cartop boat launch beside the lake and a picnic site. Power boats are not allowed. Camping is available at Muchalet Lake about 8 km further up the road towards Woss, or at the Peppercorn RV Park in Gold River. Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Quick Facts Surface Area •20 Hectares (49 Acres) Maximum Depth •10.4 metres (30 feet) Elevation (ASL) •152 metres (499 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

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Beavertail Lake

3125 NORTH ISLAND HWY. 250-286-0752 www.campbellriverboatland.com

eavertail Lake is a popular fishing and camping destination for residents and visitors in the Campbell River area. Several species of fish inhabit the lake, making it a perfect choice for novice anglers, or for those who just want to head out and cast a line.

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t h r o a t trout are found in good numbers in Beavertail Lake. Dolly varden and kokanee also thrive here. Rainbow trout are stocked, with 2,000 added in 2012, rounding out the fish population here.

There is no real “off” time for Beavertail Lake, although it does tend to produce more in the spring and fall. The west end can be a good place to fly fish, and trolling out from the boat launch is also productive. Kokanee inhabit the middepths, while dollies tend to go deeper. Travis Atkinson from Campbell River Boatland, says that there are always good sized trout in the lake. “The

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shoreline is a good place to start. Trolling is best at dusk and dawn,” he says. The weedy and shallow areas are good places for anglers to target. Atkinson notes that people come off the lake with “trout every time.” LAKE ACCESS

rive west of Campbell River on Hwy 28 (Gold River Hwy) for 16 km. At Camp 8 (the Timberwest marshalling yard and offices), turn right (west) onto the Elk River Mainline, an all-season, gravel logging road. Proceed west for 6 km until the lake comes into view on the north side of the road. The boat launch is directly off the Elk River Mainline pullout on the south side of

the lake. Travis Atkinson of Campbell River Boatland says that 4wd is absolutely necessary to get to these areas. He also notes that they’re not suitable for tow-trailers without clearance, or larger RVs. Please note that there are no amenities at these sites. Beavertail Lake has a boat launch and two rustic camping areas. One of these camp areas is located at the pullout off the Elk River Mainline at the south side of the lake, the other is off the spur road at the west side of the lake. Map based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 103 Hectares (254.5 Acres) Maximum Depth • 26 metres (85 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 270 metres (886 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Cameron Lake

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ameron Lake, set alongside the jewel that is Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, is one of the few British Columbia lakes known to support a thriving brown trout fishery. The rainbows and cutthroat trout round out the fishing experience on this beautiful lake. Cameron Lake is fairly large, deep and cool. Recent water projects have steadied water levels and improved spawning habitat.

Cutthroat and rainbows can be enticed with a variety of similar flies and lures, and similar hatch patterns exist here as with many other Vancouver Island lakes. Leeches, and sedges later in the season, are good standard flies, and a lake troll with a small spoon, spinner or plug is a good choice for gear fishers. Brown trout are a different story, as they are not your standard trout. While with other trout, there

ameron Lake is located east of Port Alberni, along Highway 4. From Port Alberni, head east along Highway 4 for about 26 kilometres.

c a n be room to experiment with different presentations and retrieves, brown trout can be far more particular about what they will take.

They tend to inhabit cover, and they tend to feed in cover. They aren’t as likely as other species to chase a lure or fly. That isn’t to say that it doesn’t happen, but anglers can succeed far more frequently by presenting to the trout.

There are some steep drop-offs in Cameron Lake, and some of the best fishing can be had in the shallow area at the mouth of the river. If you’re fly fishing, try some terrestrial insect patterns, as these trout have been known to key in on land insects that have drifted into the water. In the fall, both flies and lures should imitate baitfish. Similar to bass, brown trout have even been known to feed on small mice or frogs; again, keep it small.

Several camping and accommodation

options exist around Cameron Lake. Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park has campsites and amenities. Cameron Lake Lodge is a private campground on Cameron Lake, and offers camping and a boat launch. Boaters need to be aware that the lake is subject to sudden, strong gusts of wind. Anglers with smaller boats need to take appropriate precautions when venturing onto Cameron Lake. There are great opportunities for swimming and sailing on Cameron Lake, and nearby hiking trails are an excellent way to explore the area. McMillan Provincial Park with its spectacular old-growth, and Little Qualicum Falls are other prime attractions here.

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Quick Facts Surface Area • 477 Hectares (1,179 Acres) Maximum Depth • 43 metres (141 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 186 metres (610 feet) Survey Date • July, 1951 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

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Colliery Dams UPHOLSTERY

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olliery Dams is a multi-level series of lakes, dams and bridges located within a 28-hectare park managed and maintained by the City of Nanaimo. The park is a popular swimming spot in the summer and a wonderful hiking and family-oriented fishing retreat any time o f year. Colliery 2 is pictured here.

The area’s three small lakes — Colliery 1, Colliery 2 and Colliery 3 — are connected by short sections of stream, and are separated by concrete dams and spillways. The lower lake, Colliery 1, has three small swimming beaches. A 2.5 km system of easy hiking trails run a figure eight around Colliery 1 and 2, winding through interesting geology and a rich variety of plant life. The trails feature beautiful views and access points to the lakes. The shore fishing is reasonable here, and it’s easy for novice anglers to simply cast out and wait for a bite. Bobbers are useful so that the hook stays suspended instead of floating to the bottom. Similarly, a cast and retrieve method can work well. For this method, your best bet is a small spinner or spoon and some bait. Mepps, blue foxes and panther martins are standards that are widely available. These lakes

are heavily stocked with catchable sized trout in both the spring and fall, increasing its value as a family destination. LAKE ACCESS oute I: From Hwy 19A (Terminal Ave), turn west onto Comox Rd, left onto Wakesiah Ave past Malaspina University-College, then right onto Nanaimo Lakes Rd. Follow this to the Colliery Dams Park parking lots on the left, just before the Hwy 19 underpass. Route 2: From Hwy 19 (the Nanaimo Bypass), go east at the 5th St exit, turn right onto Wakesiah Ave just below Malaspina University-College, then right again at the four-way stop onto Nanaimo Lakes Rd. Travel a short distance to the Colliery Dams parking lots on the left, which are well marked with signs. Either route allows you to park close to a lake view. About 1 km further up Nanaimo Lake Rd, on your right, is the Morrell Wildlife Sanctuary. Two parking lots, picnic sites and washroom facilities are available here. There are signs and markers along the trails. Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

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Quick Facts Surface Area • 1.4 - 2.3 Hectares (3.5 - 5.7 Acres) Maximum Depth • ~ 6.5 metres (21 feet) Elevation (ASL) • Unknown Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

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Cowichan Lake 6777 Beaumont Avenue, Maple Bay

C Quick Facts Surface Area • 6,204 Hectares (15,330 Acres) Maximum Depth • 152 metres (499 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 163 metres (535 feet) Survey Date • May, 1960 Contour Units • Metres

owichan Lake is one of the jewels of British Columbia. Its easy access, excellent fishing and recreational opportunities, and its stunning scenery, showcasing some of the best of Vancouver Island, makes Cowichan Lake very popular with tourists and locals alike. There is a lot to explore, and one could spend a very long time on Cowichan Lake and still not experience all it has to offer. Marcus Kennett, fishing guide and owner of Marcus Kennett Fishing Charters, offers some great tips to help you make the most of your trip.

“There is good trout fishing for rainbows and cutthroat trout all year but I like to fish it in the winter and spring,” he suggests. “It is a bigger lake, so fishing out of a boat does give you more options and opportunities. I like to fish in front of some of the tributaries that flow into the lake in the winter when the fish eggs are coming out of the creeks, when the salmon are spawning, and in the spring when all of the salmon fry are

coming out of the creeks.”

Kennett’s lures of choice for trout in Cowichan Lake are 3” Tomic Plugs. “My favourite colours are #632iig, #231, #351, #602 #256ii, #232, and #619,” he adds. Also try 3.5” Coyote spoons in Army Truck, Cop Car and Glo Green, or Diawa Dr Minnow in Prizm shade, Rainbow Trout from 2” to 3 1/2”, Rapala plugs in black and silver and Rainbow Trout in sizes CD11 or f11.

Kennett notes that his favourite fly patterns for lake are “all of the same flies that I use in the river for trout.” The Cowichan River Guide Fly works very well and is very popular. It is available at Bucky’s Sport Shop. “Some other favourites are Doc Spratlies in red and black and green, Muddler Minnows, Wooly Buggers, Stone Flies, Cased Caddis Flies, Tom Thumbs, May Flies, Sedge, Irresistibles and Mosquitoes,” says Kennett.

Book your saltwater fishing trip with Marcus Kennett for a memorable fishing adventure. Contact him at 250-701-3663

or email marcus_kennett@yahoo. com. See his website at www.fishvancouver-island.com. LAKE ACCESS

owichan Lake can be accessed in many different ways, at different points around the lake.

From the town of Lake Cowichan, west of Duncan, there are several access points to the lake. Visit the info centre in town, or one of the local tackle shops for information about the many places to launch boats in the lake. There are several accommodation options as well, ranging from rustic camping, to more serviced campsites to motels and hotels in town.

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Cowichan River

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he Cowichan River is a worldclass fishing river, and even if you’ve never fished it, you’ve likely heard tales of its fabulous fishery. Unlike rivers draining the British Columbia Interior, the Cowichan reaches high water in winter, usually peaking with January rains. By late May, because of the influence of the weir, the river has begun

to drop, sometimes going so low that driftboats can no longer navigate its length. Fly fishing remains good throughout June, however, as prolific insect hatches occur during the warming days.

Marcus Kennett, owner of Marcus Kennett Fishing Charters, is a fishing guide who spends a lot of time on the Cowichan River.

“There is a small Chinook run as soon as there is enough water in the river in September until November but they close most of the river except the fly fishing area above Skutz falls from August 1 until

November 15. Coho salmon and chum usually open in November. Some good lures for coho are Blue Fox Vibrex spinners in brass, silver, chartreuse, pink and rainbow. Colorado spinners work well in brass, copper and silver, and Spin n Glos and Corkies work in pinks and oranges.” Kennett notes that for flies, egg patterns work well.

December marks the start of the steelhead run. “Most people use Spin n Glos and Corkies in size # 14 up to #8 depending on water clarity,” says Kennett. “Rocket red, egg fluores-

flies work well in March.

March until June is the best time for rainbows. Go out early to avoid the crowds. Kennett recommends spinners and spoons of all kinds, especially silver, brass, pink or black. “Bucky’s Sport Shop sells a fly that we call the Cowichan River Guide Fly. It works very well and we sell dozens of them. Some other favourites are Doc Spratlies in red and black and green, Muddler Minnows, Wooly Buggers, Stone Flies, Cased Caddis Flies, Tom Thumb, May Fly, Sedge, Irresistibles and Mosquitoes,” Kennett adds.

“As for fishing spots, I like the River Bottom Rd. area on the north side of the river for steel head and salmon. That is Stoltz Pool, Sandy Pool, Bible Camp. For the trout fishing I like the top end of the river above Skutz falls up to the

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Book a trip with Marcus Kennett for some fabulous saltwater fishing! He can be reached at 250-7013663, or email marcus_kennett@yahoo.com. Be sure to check the regulations before heading out.

R I V E R ACCESS

cent and peach luminescent are my favourite colours.” Other good choices are Bubble Gum pink worms and Colorado spinners in brass and silver.

Egg patterns, worm patterns, Woolly Buggers in black, olive, purple and pink are his go-to steelhead flies. He adds that black and yellow stone

here are m a n y access points to the Cowichan River. Cowichan Provincial Park offers camping and a car top boat launch. Accommodations are available in the town of Lake Cowichan, and at many campsites nearby. © The Angler’s Atlas

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Quadra Island

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Quick Facts Surface Area • 20 Hectares (49 Acres) Maximum Depth • 24 metres (79 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 305 metres (1,000 feet) Survey Date • Unknown Contour Units • Metres © The Angler’s Atlas

Drum Lake

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rum Lake is located on the western boundary of Strathcona Provincial Park, a 500,000-acre wilderness reserve that extends from the central regions of the Island, northward between Campbell River and Gold River.

Drum Lake’s two basins both have great shore fishing opportunities. As well, shore fishing works well along the narrow section between the two basins. Boating is popular here as well, providing access to the deeper sections. There are fabulous opportunities for catching rainbows, dolly varden and cutthroat trout. Stick to some of the shallower areas in the spring and fall if you’re trolling. The weedy areas around the shore are prime habitat. Small plugs are great for a variety of trout, particularly rainbows. Small spoons and spinners produce results as well. Drum Lake has a good chironomid hatch. Other standard patterns, particularly leeches and nymphs

are always good to have on hand. Try a Doc Spratley, Carey or a Halfback. LAKE ACCESS

ccess is directly off Highway 28 on a paved road, 19 kilometres northeast of Gold River, or 73 km west of Campbell River. There are two parking areas. One is located at Crest Creek on the lower basin, although the best spot to park is the pullout at the Elk River trailhead between the lower and upper basins. The cartop boat launch is located 150 m west of the Elk River lot. There is a cartop boat launch across the highway from the Elk River trailhead parking lot, an area for picnicking (without tables) and a pebble beach for swimming in a day-use B.C. park. There are no resorts or campsites in the immediate vicinity. Drum Lake is located along the western boundary of Strathcona Provincial Park. This

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is a wilderness area, and special regulations apply here. As well, it’s important for anyone venturing into the park to be entirely self-sufficient, particularly those who are going off-trail. Other fishing lakes within the park are Upper Campbell Lake, and Buttle Lake. Just west of here are Mud and Crest Lakes, which also support fisheries. 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. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 12

Echo Lake

3125 NORTH ISLAND HWY. 250-286-0752 www.campbellriverboatland.com

cho Lake is a great all-round spot for all kinds of fishing. It’s accessible, it’s fun for everyone, and the catch rates are high. Echo Lake was developed to encourage families and visitors to get out and get fishing. This fishery is a great way to allow everyone to experience the joy of fishing. It’s wheelchair accessible and there are several ideal locations around the lake to go after the trout. As a bonus, it’s also challenging enough to keep seasoned anglers interested. Echo Lake supports a thriving fishery for cutthroat and dolly varden, and rainbows are stocked regularly to round out the fishing experience. In 2012, 2,500 rainbow trout were stocked here.

Many seasoned trout anglers fish Echo Lake, but you don’t need to be an expert on the science of the sport to catch fish here. With a basic fly or spinner rod, a net and a few tried-and-true standbys in your tackle box, your chances are good any time of the year.

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Lake trolls work well here. They’re effective and they’re easy to use. To set up a rod with a lake troll simply connect the mainline from the rod to the swivel at the top of the troll. At the opposite end of the troll tie on a 30–46 cm (12–18 in) leader and your choice of spoon, spinner or plug.

Good colour choices for Echo Lake are chrome or nickel combinations. Krokodiles in chrome / orange, silver speckled Kwikfish or red / nickel Dick Nite spoons are good producers. Any time of year is a good time for fly fishing, but your odds improve in the spring and fall. There’s a lot of action when the fish are hungry and the insects are emerging. Beginners and experts alike can be rewarded by stocking s o m e

standards. These are flies that imitate a wide variety of insects, and can be used at various times in the year. The Carey Special and the Doc Spratley are excellent attractor patterns any time of the year. Other common patterns that produce good results are the Pheasant-tail Nymph, 52 Buick, Halfback and Baggie Shrimp. Flies can be trolled with a full sink line in 20–38 cm (8–15 ft) of water, close to the bottom, or cast and retrieved. Varying your speed while trolling or retrieving the fly can be effective at enticing fish to bite.

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cho Lake is located 20 km (12.5 mi) southwest of Campbell

River on Hwy 28 to Gold River and is easily accessed at two locations directly off the highway. Boat launch. Electric motors only. Campsites are located nearby.

Quick Facts

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

Surface Area • 24 Hectares (59 Acres) Maximum Depth • 14 metres (46 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 240 metres (787 feet) Survey Date • Unknown

Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 13

JACQUIE GORDON’S B&B

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Fuller Lake

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uller Lake provides the rare opportunity to pursue larger trout in a picturesque, easily accessible, semi- urban environment. For these reasons, the lake is a favoured destination for resident and visiting freshwater anglers. Both bass and rainbows are here, which is a boon to anglers who can enjoy very different kinds of fishing in different kinds of conditions. In 2013, Fuller Lake was stocked with just over 1,500 adult and catchable-sized rainbow trout.

Richard Kennett, of Bucky’s Sport Shop in Duncan, says that Fuller Lake is a real family fishing lake, and is oriented towards helping kids learn to fish. There’s a wharf at Fuller Lake, which is an ideal spot for kids. “A few times a year, the local clubs put on learn-to-fish programs,” he adds. Fuller Lake is good all year, and Kennett says there are big fish in the lake. “Even at midday, I’ve caught fish there,” he says, noting that morning and later afternoon might be better, but not crucial for catching fish.

Kennett suggests that flies are a great choice for Fuller Lake. “Lots of Leeches, Chironomids. Red Spratleys are good. Even trolling a Wedding Band and worm will

work well,” though he reminds anglers that only electric motors are allowed on Fuller Lake.

If the trout fishing slows down in the heat, the bass get going. This fishery has been described as lively. Work with surface lures, especially in the morning or evening. Head to shallow water and try soft plastics or crank baits.

is a boat launch next to a day-use park with a picnic area and washroom facilities. Electric motors only.

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Quick Facts

Stop by Bucky’s Sport Shop for all of your fishing needs, and for a dose of great fishing advice as well.

Surface Area • 24.1 Hectares (59 Acres) Maximum Depth • 17 metres (56 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 45 metres (148 feet)

LAKE ACCESS

uller Lake Park is located on the east side of the Island Highway immediately south of the Chemainus Village. Signs mark the turn-off and the lake is accessed by a paved road. There

ORDER LINE CANADA

Survey Date • Unknown 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. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 14

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

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hile better known for its spectacular caves, Horne Lake, on the eastern shores of

Va n c o u v e r Island, also offers fabulous fishing for cutthroat and rainbow trout.

Horne Lake remains g o o d fishing even through the winter, but your best bet is to try your luck in the spring.

Targetting cutthroat trout can be similar to fishing for rainbows. Fished through the drop offs, small spinners and spoons are reliable producers all season. Try the southwest bay, or near the inflow and outflow of the river. As well, there is a small island in the eastern basin. The deeper section near there is a good place to start in the heat of the summer. The Qualicum River is a treat

in itself. The Qualicum River is famous for its good salmon fishing. Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park on the west side provides access to a bridge, as well as access to the river

where small boats can be launched from the rough shoreline. To control the water flow from Horne Lake, a dam and a sluice gate have been installed. This maintains protection from flood and drought and increases the survival of fish fry.

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rom Highway 19, take the Horne Lake Road exit (#75), drive inland to Horne Lk Caves Road, turn right and follow the north shore of the Lake all the way to the Regional and Provincial parks. It is about 13

kilometres from the Highway to the Parks; the road is mainly gravel with some narrow blind corners and is actively used by logging trucks seven days a week. Please, drive with your headlights on and obey the traffic and speed limit signs.

Horne Lake Regional Park offers camping (single and group), along with boating,

dayuse picnicking a n d swimming. The communities of Qualicum Bay and Bowser are situated about 25 kilometres to the east along the oceanfront, and provide the nearest location for gas, groceries, restaurants and other amenities. © The Angler’s Atlas

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Quick Facts Surface Area • 960 Hectares (2,372 Acres) Maximum Depth • 50 metres (164 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 119 metres (390 feet) Survey Date • July, 1951 Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 15

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Loon Lake

ALBERNI CHRYSLER

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oon Lake is a small gem situated in the mountains east of Port Alberni. The fishing is great in these cool waters, and the trout here will take to a variety of flies and lures.

Loon Lake is a boat lake. Thick, lush stands of alder and fir grow right around the shoreline, which makes shore fishing a challenge. From the boat launch on the southwest side of the lake, try a slow troll directly north through the deeper sections of the lake. There is good fishing to be had all season long. Hardware seems to be the most popular choice for Loon Lake. Cast a spoon, a spinner such as a Mepps or Gibbs black and orange dot or plug back towards shore. Or try a lake troll with a Wedding Band and bait, particularly midsummer. Other good choices are to troll a black and silver speckled Flatfish or a Dick Nite spoon. A brass Needlefish can produce

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Bugger, trolled very slowly, and retrieve with an equally slow pull.

LAKE ACCESS

results

good well.

Fly fishing also works well in Loon Lake. The chironomid fishing is good in the spring, and caddisflies are abundant in the midsummer. Later in the season into the fall, most of the insect hatches have eased off, and yet this is when the trout are feeding intensely to prepare for winter. Staples such as leeches, bloodworms and damselflies are good choices for the this time of the season. Try a Woolly

ravel east from Port Alberni on Hwy 4 for 11 km. Turn left opposite the access road to the Mount Arrowsmith ski area and travel a short distance on a gravel road. A car is adequate. There is a cartop boat launch. Electric motors only. Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 45 Hectares (111 Acres) Maximum Depth • 10 metres (33 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 173 metres (568 feet) Survey Date • August, 1979 Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 16

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Get Your Boat Out!

Lowry Lake L

owry Lake is a beautiful spot just outside of Strathcona Provincial Park, set amid rolling hills and deciduous forest. An excellent fishing lake, Lowry supports a good fishery for rainbows, cutthroats and kokanee. The lake does have natural spawning grounds, however in the past it was regularly stocked with cutthroat trout. The lake is home to trumpeter swans during the winter.

bottom occasionally when fishing these flies properly. Vary your speed while trolling the fly. Most any variation of a leech pattern will perform well, as it is a year round mainstay in the trout’s diet.

Both flies and gear succeed on Lowry Lake. Troll flies, small spoons, or plugs. Casting spinning gear with small lures is another reliable method. Of the hundreds of reliable spinners that can be found in tackle stores, Mepps and Bluefox spinners remain some of the most common choices and are good options for beginner or experienced anglers to try.

Now Angler’s Atlas members can “follow” their favourite lakes. Get notified about new information as soon as it’s posted. Visit www. anglersatlas.com for more information.

Lowry Lake is more of a boat lake than shore fishery. The shoreline is steep in many places, and is better explored on the water.

Fly fishers will find that standards produce well here. Leeches, nymphs, and caddisflies are all popular choices. The Carey Special and the Doc Spratley are excellent attractor patterns any time of the year. The best way to fish these flies is to troll them with a full sink line in 2–5 m (8–15 ft) of water, close to the bottom. Your fly should hit

Sometimes, however, the best time to experiment is when things are working well. When the bite is on, both gear and fly fishers may want to try new patterns and lures. Keep note of the conditions; sometimes all it takes is the difference between a cloudy day and sunshine for a particular pattern or lure to entice the trout.

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Quick Facts

LAKE ACCESS

owry Lake is located 30 km northwest of Port Alberni off Hwy 4 on the Great Central Lake Rd, the Ash River logging mainline and the Branch 8 road to ThunderMountain. A car is adequate. An access road leads to the shoreline on the east side of the lake. A small, rustic campground managed by the B.C. Forest Service and a launching site for cartop boats are available. Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Surface Area • 58 Hectares (130 Acres) Maximum Depth • 13 metres (42 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 137 metres (450 feet) Survey Date • May, 1968 Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 20

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Maple Lake M

aple Lake is a small lake close to Courtenay. Don’t let its size fool you, however. Maple Lake is a great fishing lake with decent sized trout. It’s close enough to town to get away for a quick retreat. Maple Lake is a favourite of locals, and both beginners and experts fish here. In 2012, the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC stocked over 4,500 catchable-sized rainbow trout in Maple Lake. This is a shallow lake, and while people can and do fish year round, the best fishing is in cooler weather. October to April are the best times to head out, and the rainbows and cutthroats are more active then.

Maple Lake can be somewhat weedy along the shore, and it can be challenging to get your lure or fly out far enough. There are some shore fishing opportunities, but small boats work best. A basic spinning rod and reel setup works just fine here. Panther Martins, Flatfish, and Mepps are all great choices. Black and gold are good colours for Maple Lake, with or without bait. Probably the simplest way to catch fish and introduce young people or novice anglers to sport fishing is by a technique known as still fishing.

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When still fishing from the shore or a boat, the angler casts out and waits for a bite. Still fishing can be done with or without the use of a float. Floats (bobbers) can be attached to the line so the baited hook stays suspended in the water. The depth can be adjusted by simply sliding the float up or down the line. Good spots to start are directly out from the boat launch, heading towards the two islands where the water drops off.

aple Lake is located 5 km south of Courtenay. Take the Comox Valley Parkway off the Inland Island Hwy (Hwy 19) and turn left onto Minto Rd. Drive past the cemetery and through the highway underpass to the parking lot. A Cartop boat launch is located about 200 m from the parking lot. There is a road from the parking lot to the launch area but it’s rough and requires a vehicle with good ground clearance. Electric motors only. Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 29 Hectares (69 Acres) Maximum Depth • 9 metres (30 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 137 metres (449 feet) Survey Date • May, 1958 Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 21

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Nitinat Lake N Quick Facts Surface Area • 45 Hectares (111 Acres) Maximum Depth • 10 metres (33 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 173 metres (568 feet) Survey Date • August, 1979 Contour Units • Metres

itinat Lake, on the western edge of Vancouver Island, is surrounded by caves, forests, waterfalls and rivers, all waiting to be explored. The lake itself is known first for its fabulous windsurfing. However, Nitinat Lake also supports a great fishery. Gord March, owner of Cowichan Fly and Tackle in Lake Cowichan, says that fall is one of the best times for Nitinat Lake. “Nitinat bar produces well for cut pluggers. Try cut plugging the edge of the current seam on the flood tide,” he suggests. If you’re fly fishing, March suggests a sink tip line and B.H. flies. His top picks are rolled muddlers and Woolly Buggers. For float fishers, try a chartreuse or peach wool tie. The Nitinat River, which also presents incredible angling opportunities, flows through Nitinat Lake on its way to the Pacific Ocean. The river is especially attractive for fly fishers. Both summer and

winter run steelhead run through the river, and cutthroat are resident here. In general, summer fly fishing on Nitinat River is a peaceful, serene experience, whereas the winter fishing with the river’s high and tumultuous currents require a boat. All of this is in addition to the salmon fishery, thanks to the Nitinat Fish Hatchery. Nitinat River Hatchery is Canada’s largest salmon hatchery, and has resulted in a thriving sport fishery inside Nitinat Lake and other local lakes. Stop by Cowichan Fly and Tackle for a huge selection of flies and lures, and great advice, too. Visit their website at www. cowichanflyandtackle.ca LAKE ACCESS itinat Lake is 70 km southwest of Lake Cowichan. Camping is at the Nitinat Lake Recreation Site, which is busy almost year-round. Nitinat River Provincial Park is located above Nitinat Lake. Wilderness hiking and camping,

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as well as sports fishing and wildlife viewing are good here. Knob Point Provincial Campsite is another good place to stay; walk-in access and no facilities. As well, accommodations are available in Ditidaht Village. Please remember that Nitinat Lake and Nitinat River are considered tidal waters for regulatory purposes. Several different restrictions apply. Along with the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations, please ensure that you are familiar with the Federal Fishing Regulations for this zone. A federal Tidal Waters Sportfishing License is required.

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 22

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Quennell Lake

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uennell Lake is popularly considered one of the best bass fishing lakes on Vancouver Island. T h e nutrientrich, warmer waters are perfect habitat for bass. Quennell Lake is stocked with rainbow trout as well.

While much of the lake is highly productive, the south bay tends to be one of the best spots for bass. Try a dark or yellow tube, worms and spinnerbaits. Fish over structure like weeds or submerged logs.

Despite the warmer water, the trout do fairly well. Try standard lures and flies. Your best bet for the trout is in the cooler months. When the bass are slowing down, the trout are becoming more active, which makes for great fishing in most months. Some of the deeper water is along the northeastern arm. Aim for the dropoffs and go deep for the trout.

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Another nearby lake is Holden Lake, which also offers fantastic fishing. Located in Hemer Provincial Park, Holden Lake is another diverse lake supporting both rainbows and bass. Holden is quieter than Quennell, and the angling pressure is lower there. Along with the bass, Holden has been stocked with cutthroat trout. Michael and Greenway Lakes are two others in the area. Michael Lake has been stocked with cutthroat as well. LAKE ACCESS

Nanaimo, near the village of Cedar, within the resort area of Yellow Point. There is a resort on the lake, Zuiderzee Campsites & Trailer Park, offering accommodations and a boat launch. They also hold a Father’s Day Fishing Derby in June. Call them at (250) 722-2334 or www.zuiderzeeresort.com. © The Angler’s Atlas

uennell Lake is located between Ladysmith and

Quick Facts Surface Area • 120 Hectares (297 Acres) Maximum Depth • 6.9 metres (23 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 38 metres (125 feet) Survey Date • May, 1958 Contour Units • Feet

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 23

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Roberts Lake

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popular local lake just outside Campbell River, Roberts Lake supports a thriving rainbow and cutthroat fishery. Fishing is consistently good through the spring, summer and fall, peaking from April to June and through September and October. Lorna Duncan, from Roberts Lake Resort, says that the best thing about Roberts Lake is that it is a

work well, she says.

Duncan adds that fly fishing is great in the summer, and that it’s definitely becoming more popular on the lake.

Roberts Lake is deep and cool. The northern shore has large rocks under the water’s surface, making for good trout habitat. Many of the dropoffs are steep, and are perfect places to start a troll, or even to still fish. A sandy beach along the southern part of the

Cutthroat and rainbows can be caught by many of the same methods. Small flatfish, Kwikfish and Hotshots are really good choices. In general terms, anglers will often catch both rainbows and cutthroats with the same gear. Early hatches on Roberts Lake are a boon to fly fishers, as chironomids can begin as early as March. As well, while in many places the mayfly hatch doesn’t occur until May, these flies work well as early as April in Roberts Lake. LAKE ACCESS

perfect family fishing lake. There is a floating dock, funded jointly between government and private enterprise, that has really helped to made the lake easy to fish. It is a perfect way to get kids out without needing a boat. Duncan adds that there’s also really good shore fishing.

Willow Leafs and plugs are the most popular, Duncan notes, and pink or white are good colour choices. Simple techniques

eastern side is more gentle. There is a boat launch on the western shore right down the access road off the highway.

oberts Lake is located immediately beside the Island Hwy (Hwy 19) 25 km northwest of Campbell River. Access is excellent on a paved road. Cartop boats can be launched from Roberts Lake’s sandy beach, a short walk from the road on a Forest Service trail to a user maintained camping area. Cottages are available for rent at Roberts Lake Resort. Contact them at 250-287-9421. Please consult the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations before heading out.

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

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Quick Facts Surface Area • 276 Hectares (682 Acres) Maximum Depth • 53 metres (174 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 182 metres (597 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. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 24

Mason’s

Shawnigan Lake

FOR FISHING LURES AND WORMS

250.743.2144

S Quick Facts Surface Area • 537 Hectares (1,327 Acres) Maximum Depth • 47 metres (154 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 119 metres (390 feet) Survey Date • August, 1969 Contour Units • Feet

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

hawnigan Lake, one of the best bass fishing lakes in British Columbia, is large, deep and active -- not necessarily what one thinks of when considering the makeup of a good bass lake. Nevertheless, bass thrive here, and the fishing is excellent. Along with bass, the perch fishing is equally good, and worth the trip alone. On top of the fabulous perch and bass fishing, Shawnigan is very heavily stocked with rainbow trout from fry to catchable sized. Fabulous islands and shoal areas provide perfect habitat for trout, and the deeper, cooler waters are great for keeping the fishery active even in the heat of the summer. Your best bet is a boat to make the most of your time on this large lake, or better yet, hire a guide. While fly fishing is certainly a good option, some of the faster action lures may be more productive here. Anecdotal reports suggest that the western arm is a hotspot for bass. When targetting

bass, look for cover, underwater structure and warmer water. The shallower areas in the western arm are ideal. Try soft plastics and small frog patterns for bass.

Perch are easy to catch and are prolific in Shawnigan Lake. High catch rates make them a fun species for beginners to target, and can be had even with a worm and bobber. For those who want to try different hardware, try larger and lighter lures in the shallows, and smaller, heavier lures in the deep. These highly piscivorous fish are not very fussy, and will go after many different lures and flies. Members of the Anglers Atlas website have posted many helpful map markers, showing various hot spots and other important locations. Check out www.anglersatlas.com/ lakes/1666/.

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tion options exist around the lake, from campsites to hotels. Provincial Parks range from day use to overnight camping. West Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park is day use only. Also check out Memory Island protected area.

LAKE ACCESS

hawnigan Lake is 45 kilometres north of Victoria. Several accommoda-

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 25

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Spectacle Lake S

pecatcle Lake is a picturesque fishing destination for eastern brook trout, smallmouth bass, rainbow and cutthroat trout. Set within the boundaries of Spectacle Lake Provincial Park, a day-use recreation area, Spectacle Lake is an easy trip from Victoria.

This popular fishing lake is a great family-friendly destination. An easy trail winds around the lake for more than 2 km (1.2 mi), with wooden bridges crossing the creeks and marshy areas feeding into Spectacle. Spectacle Lake is home to the Island’s only eastern brook char population, however the illegal introduction of bass has impacted the population of brookies and anglers are now reporting limited success angling for brook trout. Rainbow trout can be angled from shore or by small boat.

As with other Island lakes, the chironomid (midge) hatch on Spectacle begins in March or April and usually lasts through May. Before that, though, bloodworms and leeches are available for trout, and are a good standard pattern all season. Early spring is a good time for mayfly and caddisfly patterns. April through to early June produces many opportunities for nymph and dryfly fishing on Spectacle.

Trout anglers use a variety of methods: casting or trolling flies, spinning with small lures, trolling with gang trolls and worms, and still-fishing with Power Bait or worms. Small spoons, plugs (Flatfish and Kwikfish in a Cracked Frog or White Coach Dog pattern) are other good choices for trolling.

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Smallmouth bass anglers report success with crank baits, spinner baits, Power Baits or soft plastics in protected areas along the shore. In deeper water, try deep-running crank baits or soft plastics. LAKE ACCESS

pectacle Lake is located 30 km northwest of Victoria near the Shawnigan Lake turnoff at Malahat Summit on the Island Hwy. Travel on paved roads, 2 km west of the highway along Whitaker and Spectacle Lake roads. Spectacle Lake Provincial Park offers a day-use picnic area and cartop boat launch, about 100 m from the parking area. Coldwater taps are located around the park. The picnic area and much of the trail system is wheelchair accessible. Fully equipped campgrounds are located nearby. Map and article based on source material provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Quick Facts Surface Area • 4 Hectares (10 Acres) Maximum Depth • 7 metres (23 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 370 metres (1,214 feet) Survey Date • September, 1981 Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 26

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Spider Lake Fanny Bay 250.335.2233

ith its many ‘legs’ of winding inlets it’s easy to imagine how the forest-ringed centrepiece of Spider Lake Provincial Park came by its name. Explore Spider Lake’s many bays, and take your time; power boats are not allowed here. There are great angling opportunities all season long in Spider Lake. Its many islands and dropoffs provide excellent habitat for rainbow trout, which are stocked annually. As well, steelhead are stocked intermittently, and are an exciting sport fish. During the warmer months, smallmouth bass get active. Both deeper and shallower water are good locations, depending on your gear. Light and small lures are good down deep with a fast, full sink line. If you’re fly fishing for trout, spring fishing in the shallows is your best bet, with chirono-

mids, mayflies and sedges. Green and orange are good colours here. Warm-loving bass keep the summer fishery interesting on Spider Lake. They can be caught year round, but they are most active in the heat. Cast poppers, crankbaits, soft plastics or large flies. Bass will lurk in the cover, so target areas near the shoreline, under fallen trees or around rocky areas. Spider Lake has some good shore fishing spots, and this can work especially well for bass. LAKE ACCESS pider Lake Provincial Park is located 16 kms west of Qualicum Beach

off Hwy 19. Turn left on the Horne Lake exit then immediately left again and follow signs to Spider Lake Park on a paved road. When the pavement ends, there is a short section of gravel. Watch for the lake on your right. There is a boat launch beside the parking lot. Motorboats are prohibited. The picnic area and parking lot is open 7 am to 11 pm, mid-May to mid October. A smaller day-use area, open yearround, can be found off Lakeview Rd less than 1 km before the main park entrance. This area has two picnic tables, a pit toilet and parking for up to eight vehicles. Small craft can be easily launched from this location.

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1-800-668-3622

Quick Facts Surface Area • 58 Hectares (130 Acres) Maximum Depth • 13 metres (42 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 135 metres (443 feet) Survey Date • June, 1986

Contour Units • Metres

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

www.campbellriver.travel 250-286-7260 ext 5 866-830-1113 ext 5

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 27

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Sproat Lake

ALBERNI TOYOTA

1-877-649-6794

www.albernitoyota.com

S Quick Facts Surface Area • 3,775 Hectares (9,328 Acres) Maximum Depth • 195 metres (640 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 29 metres (95 feet) Survey Date • 1951 Contour Units • Metres

proat Lake is very large, very deep, and very popular for all manner of water recreational pursuits from swimming to fishing. Despite its size and depth, the water is relatively warm, adding to its value as a destination lake.

April and May are good months for steelhead. April through June are good rainbow trout months. The cutthroat fishery on Sproat Lake is catch and release only, and all wild rainbows over 50 cm must be released as well. Going after rainbows is great all season long. Many anglers go deep in the heat of the summer, and troll slowly through the depths. Flatfish and ford fenders can produce, and many anglers report great success with plugs. While the most productive method of fishing this large beauty is with hardware, fly fishing also nets great results. A small marabou leech, trolled slowly around the

dropoffs can produce well.

Another productive method for both gear and flies is to still fish. Anchor in shallower water and cast out.

The Sproat River is another excellent fishery, and is also known locally for great swimming in parts. Restrictions apply in regards to bait and locations; consult the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations for information. The Angler’s Atlas has started a new program for our members. Now members can “follow” their favourite lakes. Get notified about new information on 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.

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4A), or Johnstone Road through town. Sproat Lake is approximately 14 km west of town. Follow the signs to Sproat Lake Provincial Park. Sproat Lake boasts several campgrounds, each with its own character. Sproat Lake Provincial Park, on the north shore, has two campgrounds. Numerous private campgrounds exist as well.

LAKE ACCESS

rom Port Alberni, follow Highway 4 (not

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 28

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

St. Mary Lake

1170 North End Road Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 1M1 250-537-2832 www.stmarylakeresort.com

S Quick Facts Surface Area • 190 Hectares (469 Acres) Maximum Depth • 16.7 metres (55 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 41 metres (135 feet) Survey Date • July, 1976 Contour Units • Metres

t. Mary Lake is one of the premier bass fishing lakes in British Columbia. Also stocked with rainbows and cutthroats, St. Mary Lake is a prime destination lake.

St. Mary Lake is just deep enough to provide good depth for the trout. Fly fishing here is fabulous; the best opportunities are by trolling, as there is limited shore fishing available here. Bass are caught with a variety of methods. If you’re in the deeper water, try plastic baits such as tube baits

or grubs. Your bait should sink right to the bottom. As you retrieve, twitch, drag and reel it in. Fly fishers can succeed with frog patterns.

Standard flies work well for targetting trout in St. Mary Lake. Carey Specials and Woolly Buggers are good generic patterns, popular because they work so well. The trout here can be aggressive, and have been known to take larger flies as well. There are also perch in St. Mary Lake, and these aggressive fighters can be caught easily. Make sure you’ve got strong gear, however, as these razor sharp teeth make short work of standard gear.

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t. Mary Lake is located on the northern end of Saltspring Island, 3.5 km north of Ganges. Access to this Gulf Island lake from Ganges is via Robinson Road and Stark Road to North End Road.

Several accommodation options exist around St. Mary Lake, however you are well-advised to book early, as resorts, hotels and motels fill up very quickly on this popular island. As well, ensure you are familiar with the ferry schedules before heading out.

Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 29

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Westwood Lake W Quick Facts Surface Area • 62.7 Hectares (155 Acres) Maximum Depth • 7 metres (23 feet) Elevation (ASL) • 158.5 metres (520 feet) Survey Date • 1959 Contour Units • Metres

estwood Lake is a sanctuary for a diversity of wildlife above the water’s surface, and a generous population of hardfighting rainbow trout, cutthroat trout and smallmouth bass below. Rainbow trout at catchable size are released into Westwood Lake each year by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. Pumpkinseed sunfish are also present. Westwood Lake is a great shore fishing lake. With the trails around the shoreline, there are plenty of places to cast a line. Anglers targeting trout will want to go with a blue fox or a panther martin. Trout also seem particularly fond of plugs. These are good to have on hand for trolling, particularly in unfamiliar lakes, as they are good attractors. Rick Passek, author of The Freshman Flyfisher’s Insect Guide, notes for example, that while mayflies make up a large part of the trout’s diet, they

do so in several different forms. The more specialized patterns can imitate the same insects in different stages. When the lake warms up, deep trolling can get down to the cooler water where the trout are more likely to lurk. However, often the trout are less active. Bass fishing picks up at this time, and mornings and evenings are great times to work with surface lures. Bass will be concentrated where the cover is, and will often be found fairly near the shore in protected areas. If you’re moving deeper, a deep – running crankbait can work well. Rick Passek, author and instructor, has a website where you can order his books. Check out www. theflyfishfanatic.com LAKE ACCESS ccess is via Jingle Pot Rd and Westwood Lake Rd 5 km west of

www.iwff1.ca

ISLAND WATERS FLY FISHERS

Club meetings the fourth Tuesday of the month Rotary Field House, 3rd St., Nanaimo Visitors and guests welcome.

Nanaimo city centre. Westwood Lake Regional Park offers a boat ramp, beach, day use park with picnic, playground and washroom facilities, lifeguards in the summer, and wheelchair access. Electric motors only. Accommodations are available in Nanaimo, and there are several campgrounds, hotels and motels nearby. 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. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.

“...spin or fly rod, cast a line or quietly troll, whatever method you use, you’re bound to get a bite.”

www.TourismNorthernRockies.ca

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 30

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

26 Fishing Hot Spots in Barkley Sound To receive regular updates for information, visit The Angler’s Atlas website and follow Barkley Sound.

www.AnglersAtlas.com

Location

Amphritite Point to Red Can

Outer Strarlight

Great Bear

Sail

Janit

Meares Bluff to Cree Island

Gibralter to Entrance

Swale Rock

Howard

Lyall to Mayne Bay

Mayne Bay

Outer Swale Rock

Back Door

14 15 16

Location

Diplock to Hollford

Robbers

Fleming

Sandford

Kirby

Ships to Edward King

Cape Beale and Whittlestone to Brady’s Beach

Vernon Bay

Bamfield to Kelp Bay

Pill Point to Blood Bay

Yankee Bay

Cross Point

Assits

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 31

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Fishing for Salmon in Barkley Sound B

arkley Sound is named after Captain Charles William Barkley who sailed into this area in 1787, searching for skins to trade. Nowadays, people come to this area in search of the salmon.

Ahern operates Last Cast Guiding out of Clutesi Haven Marina in Port Alberni. To learn more, visit his website or send him an email.

provide some cover from the open ocean. Another sheltered location is along Sechart Channel and is good for trolling.

www.LastCastGuiding.com Barkley Sound is also the pat.ahern@shaw.ca gateway to Port Alberni, via Pat Ahern, owner of Last (866) 968-4665 the Alberni Inlet. There are a Cast Guiding, says fishing number of great fishing locain the sound normally gets BACKGROUND tions near the inlet. Try huggoing around the end of May. All species of salmon can be ging the shore along Junction A big group of chinook head- found in Barkley Sound, as Passage and into Rainy Bay. ing to the Columbia pass by it sits along major migratory Trevor Channel runs from the the sound at this time. path for salmon from Alaska, Alberni Inlet to Cape Beale Ahern says “time of year” as well as being connected to and provides a number of is the key. In May and June extensive streams and rivers excellent fishing all along the a lot of fishing is done on the that provide excellent spawn- southern shore. Cape Beale fringe, out in front of Brokem ing grounds. is known as a hot spot, esIsland, also around Swail The sound is productive from pecially for moochers and Rock all the way down to early spring to late fall, with jiggers. The village of BamToquart Bay. Though fishing a few of locations that can field is also located along this will depend on the herring, also be fished in the winter. channel. he added. The town of Ucluelet sits A series of islands (Tzartus The halibut fishery is also at the north entrance to the Fleming, Diana, Edward popular in Barkley Sound, sound, with some popular King) separate Trevor Chanwith August being the biggest fishing locations nearby— nel from the open water of month. However Ahern notes Amphitrite Point (extend- Imperial Eagle Channel. that the TAC (total allowable ing north along the exposed Fishing along the north side catch) is down, so there is a coast) and Newcombe Chan- of these islands can be very productive, though some anslot limit. nel are two of these spots. When fishing offshore, Ahern Amphritite Point is popu- glers note it can be hard on looks for underwater struc- lar for chinook salmon in tackle. ture, such as banks. He also the summer, with Newcomb Where Imperial Eagle Chanlooks for bait fish, as the big- Channel also providing some nel meets the open Pacific, a cluster of islands (the largest ger fish will also be nearby. earlier spring fishing. For those trying winter fish- Moving east into the sound, being Effingham) are also ing, Vernon Bay is a popular Toquart Bay is another popu- great fishing locations. Try trolling around the islands. spot. lar fishing location. The area is relatively sheltered and can

Timing and Species

Spring and summer chinook

1 3 4 5 6

Spring and summer chinook Early spring and summer chinook

Winter and early summer chinook

Summer chinook and coho

Winter and summer chinook, and also coho

Summer chinook

Winter and summer chinook

8 10 11

12 13 14 15 16

Winter and summer chinook Winter and early summer chinook Winter and early summer chinook Both winter and summer chinook Winter Chinook into June Good winter chinook

Summer chinook / fall coho Summer chinook

Both winter / summer chinook

Summer chinook

18 20 21

Summer chinook Summer chinook

Summer chinook and coho

Both winter and summer chinook,

Winter and summer chinook

Summer chinook

and coho

Winter and summer chinook, and coho in late summer / fall Summer chinook (mainly August)

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 32

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

30 Hot Fishing Spots Out Of Tahsis For detailed descriptions of each of these locations, visit The Anglerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Atlas website and search for Nootka Sound, Esperanza Inlet, Tahsis Inlet and Tlupana Inlet.

www.AnglersAtlas.com

Hot Spot

Lat

Lon

Grassy Island

49.9239

-127.255

The Pinnacles

49.7862

-127.35

Six Mile Reef

49.8349

-127.225

Tatchu Point

49.8603

-127.154

Catala Island

49.8375

-127.051

Blind Reef

49.7833

-127.017

Ferrer Point

49.7489

-126.982

Whales Tail

49.8301

-127.005

Double Island

49.8447

-126.999

Fairway Island

49.8542

-126.976

Rosa Harbour

49.8275

-126.965

Centre Island

49.8469

-126.931

Saltery Bay

49.8667

-126.808

Hecate Channel

49.8731

-126.758

Tahsis Inlet

49.8106

-126.657

Kendrick Inlet

49.7003

-126.626

Boston Point

49.6603

-126.614

Friendly Cove

49.5939

-126.617

Wash Rocks

49.582

-126.645

Maquinna Point

49.58

-126.677

Escalante Point

49.5344

-126.571

Hot Spot

Lat

Lon

Burdwood Point

49.5789

-126.569

49.6189

-126.509

Zuciarte Channel Anderson Point

49.6464

-126.469

Hanna Channel

49.6769

-126.489

Camel Rock

49.6861

-126.5

San Carlos Point

49.6858

-126.522

Hoiss Point

49.6936

-126.551

Argonaut Point

49.7206

-126.491

Conuma River

49.7956

-126.438

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 33

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

Catch Big Fish Out Of Tahsis–Year Round

he west coast of Vancouver Island is one of the most productive fishing waters in the world, and Tahsis is centred right in the middle of it. Whether you are going after the world class prawning grounds in Tahsis Inlet, some big Ling Cod and Halibut along the coast, or the famous Conuma River salmon run in late July, Tahsis offers yearround fishing adventures.

There are four major fishing areas easily reached from Tahsis— Tahsis Inlet, Esperanza Inlet, Nootka Sound and Tlupana Inlet. Each one of these locations holds a unique fishing experience.

Falavolito gives one final tip when prawning. “Don’t use fresh fish of any kind. If you do your traps will be full of slime eels rather than loaded with delicious prawns.”

Exceptional fishing opportunites exist throughout the inlet, from early spring to late fall. With a little help from Westview Marina, you can be sure to find the hottest speranza Inlet has experiences fishing spots any time of the year. to offer anglers, any time of aquinna point, at the south end of Nootka Island, is the year. Just off the coast is Six Mile Reef and The Pinnacles. one of the first hot spots as the Both are great locations to fish for Connuma fish enter Nootka Sound. halibut, and also catch the salmon This is because the bait stacks up as they head into the inlet. here, along the big rocks.

and this is where the Conuma River salmon run converges. Fishing this run starts mid July and runs about two to three weeks. “Anywhere from 250,000 to 400,00 fish come back,” says Falavolito. “You can fish the mouth of the river, into the estuary and up the river as well, from the hatchery down.”

If you time the run right the fishing is unbelievable. Three good “Lots of people fish the ebb tide Moving into the sound, along the spots to cover are Hoiss Point, San [of Six Mile Reef] for halibut south side of the island, anglers Carlos Point and Camel Rock. and then get their salmon“ says can try out Wash Rocks, San For more informaiton about fishMiguel Islands and Friendly Cove ing this section of Vancouver Falavolito. Island’s west coast, call John at Moving into Esperanza Inlet, you for more great places to fish. will pass a number of great fishing A lot of salmon travel up Zuciarte Westview Marina and Lodge. loctions, such as Double Island, Channel—a narrow but deep Call 250-934-7672 or email to stretch of water. Fish the walls up info@westviewmarina.com. Also Rosa Harbour and Blind Reef. He describes the Whale’s tail as and down the channel, mainly the visit The Angler’s Atlas website “worth it’s weight in gold. It’s down island side. Chinook fishing and search for Esperanza, Nootka and Tahsis. structure on the botton looks just is good from May to August.

ahsis Inlet is famous for it’s productive prawning, and is the only place open year round. John Falavolito, owner of Westview Marina and Lodge in Tahsis, says prawns are near steep drop offs in like a whale’s tail ... and the fish about 250-300 feet of water. hold in this depression.”

lupana Inlet begins just past the north tip of Bligh Island

Vancouver Island Fishing 2013

Page 34

Free maps at www.AnglersAtlas.com

2012 Vancouver Island Trout Stocking Report Waterbody Name

Sp.

Number Released

Waterbody Name

Sp.

Number Released

Waterbody Name

Sp.

Number Released

ANTLER

BATTLESHIP

BEAVERTAIL

2,000

BLINKHORN

BLUE GROUSE

BOOT

BRANNEN

Waterbody Name

Sp.

750

ELK

200

FLORA

14,000

LOON

1,000

MAPLE

FULLER

7,050

MATHESON

500 300

GLEN

2,000

GRACIE

1,000

2,000

GRAY

4,000

GREEN

CHEMAINUS

3,075

CHICADEE

500

2,500

SHAWNIGAN

9,846

5,000

SOMASS R

95,437

2,000

SOMENOS

1,000

MAYO

1,000

SPECTACLE

2,500

MCCLURE

2,000

SPIDER

7,000

1,500

MOAT

432

ST. MARY

3,552

4,000

NIMNIM

1,000

STAR

500

HEART

386

OKAY

STOWELL

500

HELEN MACKENZIE

800

OYSTER R

ACT

THETIS

4,000

CIRCLET

400

CLUXEWE R

8,743

HELLDIVER

500

PRIOR

500

WESTWOOD

7,500

IDA ANNE

750

PROSPECT

11,274

WOLF

2,500

COLLIERY #1

3,862

COLLIERY #2

3,000

KEMP

2,500

WOWO

603

COLLIERY #3

2,000

KISSINGER

2,000

KWAI

200

COLWOOD

500

LADY

200

CUSHEON

500

DARKIS

500

LANGFORD

10,288

DIVER

3,575

LARRY

750

LIZARD

1,500

DOUGAN

3,000

LONG

5,500

DURRANCE

4,000

ECHO

2,500

LOOKOUT

1,800

500 9,842

QUAMICHAN

570

QUAMICHAN

7,349

QUATSE R

21,145

QUENNELL

8,400

QUINSAM R

ACT

10,091

REGAN

2,000

REGINALD

1,000

RHEINHART

400

RHODODENDRON

500

Stock Species Codes: ACT = Anadromous Coastal Cutthroat Trout CT = Coastal Cutthroat Trout RB = Rainbow Trout ST = Steelhead For more information on stocking in British Columbia, visit

www.GoFishBC.com

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Number Released

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