Almost every outdoor activity is available in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region, but the fishing here is among the most varied and exciting in all of BC. Anglers in this region enjoy incredible scenery and great fishing, often only an hour's drive from a major urban centre such as Vancouver .
The Fraser River is one of the world’s great fishing rivers and it runs through the entire region. Target every salmon species, or test endurance against the largest freshwater fish in North America – the Fraser River sturgeon.
Learn more about sturgeon fishing on the Fraser River by clicking on Field Reporter Simon's video below.
The mild coastal climate allows year-round fishing with easy access from most of the region's communities. The productive waters of Georgia Strait along the Sunshine Coast lie on salmon migration routes, and the many rivers and lakes provide anglers many fishing options.
Types of Fish in Vancouver, Coast and Mountains Salmon – Chinook, coho, sockeye, pink and chum are all readily caught here. Sturgeon – The region boasts some of the healthiest stock in the world of these massive fish. Steelhead – There are more than 60 steelhead streams in the region. Trout – Rainbow and cutthroat trout are found in most lakes and rivers. Rockfish – These are easily caught in many of the saltwater areas. Shellfish – Crabs, prawns and other shellfishcan be trapped here.Highlight Freshwater Fishing The Fraser Valley between Hope Vancouver Fraser River - Accessible to anglers year-round, BC’s largest river system is famous for huge salmon runs as well as one of the largest freshwater fish in the world. The Fraser River sturgeon can grow to more than 4m/15ft long and weigh-in at about 500kg/1200lbs. A fishing trip with a licensed professional river guide is the best way to hook one of these prehistoric giants. Chilliwack /Vedder River - A tributary of the Fraser, this river is home to a large run of steelhead, while salmon are also plentiful. From Chilliwack Lake, there are more than 30km/20mi of river-accessible angling. Harrison River - This river is a major path for migrating salmon; its gentle currents are ideal for both fly fishing and spin casting. All five salmon species can be caught here, as well as steelhead and cutthroat trout. Skagit River - Flowing through both Manning and Skagit Provincial parks, this well-known fly-fishing river is a close to Hope Jet-boat Fishing - For a unique angling experience, try a guided jet-boat tour on the Lillooet River or Stave River and Lake. These trips to pristine wilderness locations are only accessible by shallow-draft jet boats, and reveal spectacular scenery and virtually pristine fishing grounds.
Saltwater Fishing Areas: Sunshine Coast - The ocean-side communities of Gibsons Sechelt Powell River
Howe Sound - A popular fishing area for first-time anglers, Howe Sound has year-round protected waters, easy access from Horseshoe Bay and Gibsons , and many popular fishing hotspots. Practical Points and License Information Appropriate fishing licenses are required for fresh and saltwater fishing. Both types can be purchased online via the BC Government's fishing website at sporting good stores. Check with authorities for the current restriction status of sport fish catches. Life jackets are mandatory in BC. Boating regulations may be in effect.