Stewart sits on the tidelands at the top of the Portland Canal, the world's fourth longest fjord, where saltwater fishing is truly exceptional. The Portland Canal stretches for 145km/90mi until it hits open sea, with Ketchikan to the north and Prince Rupert to the south. The quiet surroundings and snowy peaks are a perfect background for a day at sea. Prize catches include all five species of the Pacific Salmon, halibut, shrimp, prawns and crab. Many anglers will no doubt see wildlife too – eagles high above, bears and wolves on the shore, and maybe even breaching whales. Freshwater fishing is also an option at Meziadin Lake Provincial Park or the Nass River.
Saltwater Fishing
Most ocean anglers who come to Stewart bring their own boats, as rentals are not available in town. Since the cost of fuel has gone up, fishing charters are also few and far between. Anglers who would like a day on the water but do not have their own tug may be able to find a local guide by asking at the Stewart Visitor Centre. Boaters can dock for the night at the local marina. Both the local marina and boat launch are within minutes of downtown.
Freshwater Fishing
Anglers wishing to change things up and test out freshwater fishing can head south on Highway 37A to the Meziadin Lake Provincial Park, near Meziadin Junction. The Junction is about 65km/40mi from Stewart, where Highway 37A meets up with Highway 37, which leads to the Yukon. Visitors can put their boats in the water at the park's boat launch, or fish from shore along gravel bars that line the many creeks that run into the lake. Keep heading south along Highway 37 to the Nass Valley and fish the Nass River.
Practical Points
- Due to struggling fish populations, strict laws dictate where anglers can fish, what kind of fish they can keep, how many they can keep, and many other specifics, such as which hooks are legal and illegal on which rivers. Visit the BC government's website for more information on fishing regulations.
- Note all fishers over 16 years old, resident and non-resident, need a license to fish even for a day. Visit the BC government's website for fishing license information.
- Retails outlets in Stewart are limited, so it is best for anglers to bring with them all necessary gear.
Drop by the Visitor Centre to learn more about saltwater and freshwater fishing hotspots in Stewart, and to pick up fishing and sport fishing regulations booklets.