Fishing
Fishing at sunset (Picture BC photo)
The number and size of lakes surrounding Atlin make the community a hot spot for fishing. Anglers here are known to catch Trout up to an impressive 18kg/40lb, or sometimes four to five fish per hour. The best time for fishing in the area is mid-June to mid-September.
Popular Fishing Spots
Popular fishing spots include the gorgeous, aqua-coloured Atlin Lake, on which the community of Atlin sits. At approximately 274m/900ft deep, 137km/85mi long and 6.5km/4mi wide, this spectacular body of water is the largest natural lake in BC. The snowy dramatic peaks on the lakes western shore add to the brilliance of the experience.
Other nearby fishing destinations include small lakes in the surrounding area such as Coma Lake, just off Atlin Road on the way into town, and Surprise Lake, which is further north towards Whitehorse.
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Lake fishing for Pike is also popular in the area. Pike are known to nibble people's toes in Palmer Lake, just a few minutes drive out of town along Warm Bay Road.
Boat Fishing
For those with their own boats, Atlin has two marinas - the public Brewery Bay Marina, and private Norseman Adventures Marina. Both are close to downtown and Norseman also rents boats.
Guided Fishing and Tours
Anglers interested in hiring a guide should contact Gary Hill, who is also the local taxidermist.
Schell Tours is another local company that offers multi-day fishing tours of Atlin Lake as well as fly in expeditions to Nakina River, near the Alaskan border.
Serious anglers with a little more money can arrange fly-in trips, usually through companies in the Yukon, to Tatshenshini-Alsek Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site to the west of Atlin.
Practical Points
- Fishing gear is for sale in Atlin at the General Store, and a greater selection is found in Whitehorse, a couple hours' drive north.
- Note that all fishers 16-years-old and over, residents and non-residents, require a license to fish. Licenses are available on the BC government website.
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Things To Do
Water Activities