With more than one thousand lakes, plentiful sunshine and easy access to most of the best spots, the Thompson Okanagan region makes for an ideal fishing destination.
This region is particularly suited for family fishing holidays. The many lakes, rivers, campsites and resorts are ideal for fishing fans, as well as other water activities. The area's extensive road network provides easy access to fishing areas, and amenities including restaurants, accommodations and bait shops are never far.
Angling enthusiasts flock to the Adams River, home to the world’s largest sockeye salmon run. Every fourth year millions of sockeye salmon return to the river of their birth; watch the world-famous spectacle from Roderick-Haig Brown Provincial Park.
Rentals, Resorts and Lodges
For a unique, private fishing experience, explore the lakes in a houseboat. Shuswap Lake and Okanagan Lake are ideal areas to fish, swim and explore the shoreline. Rentals are available from Salmon Arm, home to the longest freshwater fishing pier in Canada. Resorts and lodges offer fishing trips to remote, fly-in locations, or visitors can set up a base within provincial park or private campgrounds, as well at any number of other accommodation options within the region.
Types of Fish in the Thompson Okanagan
- Trout – this is the home of the Kamloops Rainbow trout, known for its fighting ability and acrobatic leaps. Cutthroat, brook and bull trout are also plentiful.
- Salmon – the Adams River is home to the world’s largest sockeye run.
- Steelhead - these elusive, hard-fighting fish make their home in the region's lakes.
- Bass – several lakes are well known for producing large bass.
- Kokanee - these landlocked sockeye salmon are found in some lakes here.
Highlight Lakes and Fishing Areas
The Thompson Okanagan has many excellent fishing spots. Some of the best lakes and areas include:
- Kamloops area: There are hundreds of fishable lakes in the area surrounding this major urban centre. Fishing is good in Lac Le Jeune, which has hosted the World Fly Fishing Championships. Other popular lakes include Badger, Heffley, Knouff and Roche Lakes. There are many amenities for anglers in this area including resort accommodation, boat rentals and camping.
- Wells Gray Provincial Park: The town of Clearwater is the gateway to this park, where good fishing can be had in several lakes including Murtle Lake, North America's largest paddle-only lake. Other popular lakes include Clearwater, Azure and Mahood lakes. Anglers will appreciate the numerous, spectacular waterfalls including the 137m/449ft Helmcken Falls. The Clearwater River offers excellent fly fishing for rainbow trout as well as thrilling white water rafting.
- Okanagan Lake: Vernon, Kelowna, Summerland and Penticton are some of the communities that lie along the shores of 130 km/80 mi long Okanagan Lake. This lake is well-suited to trolling and can yield large rainbow trout. Kalamalka Lake is another favourite while Vaseux Lake is well known for excellent bass fishing. Anglers who venture off the beaten path will find many lakes in the Okanagan hills that offer good fly fishing and excellent scenery.
- Shuswap Lakes: This area is one of the most popular recreational destinations in BC. There are more than 20 lakes and streams in the area, but Shuswap Lake is the largest and most popular. The communites of Salmon Arm and Sicamous lie along Shuswap Lakes' 700km/435mi of shoreline, along with many provincial parks and resorts which are ideal for anglers. Mara Lake and White Lake are also popular fishing destinations.
- Nicola Valley: There are more than 200 lakes for anglers to explore in this area around Meritt. Nicola Lake's deep waters are ideal for trolling or fly fishing for the numerous rainbow trout, kokanee and whitefish. Guided fishing trips from the many guest ranches is a popular option.
- Adams Lake: A popular fishing and vacation spot, this lake provides good fishing for rainbow trout and kokanee. The Adams River, which flows out of the lake is home to the worlds largest sockeye salmon run.
Practical Points and License Information
- Appropriate fishing licenses are required for fresh and saltwater fishing. Both types can be purchased online or at sporting good stores and other fishing retailers as well as through the Government's fishing website.
- A specific license is required to fish in National Parks and can be purchased at the Park Headquarters at each park site.
- Check with authorities for the current restriction status of sport fish catches.
- Life jackets are mandatory in BC
- Boating regulations may be in effect.