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 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 all five 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 watching Field Reporter Simon's video:
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) are part of salmon migration routes. The many rivers and lakes also provide anglers with 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 shellfish can be trapped here.
Freshwater Fishing Areas
The Fraser Valley between Hope and Vancouver offers anglers a wide assortment of fishing options. Some of the best areas include:
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: sturgeon. The Fraser River sturgeon can grow to more than 4m/15ft long and weigh-in at about 500kg/1,200lb. 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; salmon are also plentiful. From Chilliwack Lake, there are more than 30km/20mi of river-accessible angling.
Harrison River: This is a major path for migrating salmon; all five salmon species can be caught here, as well as steelhead and cutthroat trout. Its gentle currents are ideal for both fly fishing and spin casting.
Skagit River: This well-known fly-fishing river is a close to Hope and flows through both Manning and Skagit Provincial parks.
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 go to pristine wilderness locations that are only accessible by shallow-draft jet boats, and reveal spectacular scenery and virtually pristine fishing grounds.
Saltwater Fishing Areas
Sunshine Coast: The oceanside communities of Gibsons, Sechelt, Pender Harbour and Powell River are all excellent angling destinations. There are more than 30 marinas and many charter operators that cater to boaters and anglers. The Sunshine Coast is home to two of BC’s best boating destinations – Princess Louisa and Desolation Sound marine provincial parks.
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.