People come from all over North America for the experience of dry fly fishing near Fernie for species such as the Westslope Cutthroat Trout. The Elk River and its tributaries, a freestone river system above the town of Elko, is pristine territory for these and other native fish species. While the catch is important, there is no doubt that the beautiful mountain scenery adds to the angler's experience.
Guided Fishing Trips
Guiding services are available with three companies in the Fernie area, each offering expertise, equipment and intimate knowledge of the local rivers. Typically, a fishing day on the Elk River starts in town with the procurement of appropriate licenses and tackle. Following a drive to a launch site, the guide will float the boat downstream with just two clients, pausing for lunch and some wading in the best spots. In the Elk River's tributaries, the approach is usually limited to walk and wade.Outside of the key months for fly fishing (June, July and August), there is good fishing in the stocked mountain lakes close to Fernie.
Elk River Guiding Company
The Elk River Guiding Company puts together custom packages that include guiding services and accommodation at the client's choice of five properties in the area. Choices include the Red Tree Lodge, the Birch Meadows Lodge Bed and Breakfast and the "rustic luxury" of the company's own Trout Post Lodge - an off-the-grid riverfront fishing lodge.
Fernie Wilderness Adventures: Fishing
About 20 minutes south of town, Fernie Wilderness Adventures provides guiding services on the Elk, the Bull, the Wigwam and the Flathead rivers. Accommodation is provided in its own backcountry lodge facility. FWA also offers guided ice fishing from December 1 to March 30.
Kootenay Fly Shop & Guiding Company
The Kootenay Fly Shop and Guiding Company offers group fly fishing instruction, and a variety of packages including float trips, walk and wade trips, heli fishing expeditions and special packages for families, women and kids. Accommodation is offered at Tightlines Lodge, Elk Meadows Lodge and Birch Meadows Lodge.For more information on fishing trips, licenses and getting tackle, head to the Fernie Visitor Centre on the highway just north of town.