 Fishing on Horsefly River, Elysia Resort photo
Best Places to Fish There are dozens of waterways found close to Williams Lake, but some of the best places to fish include Horsefly Lake/River, Quesnel Lake, Dugan Lake, Chimney Lake, Forest Lake and Fir Lake. All are within less than an hour's drive from the city, have recreation sites and put-ins for boats.
Guiding Fishing Excursions Professional fishing guides work from resorts and lodges. Most supply gear and equipment, although visitors will need to obtain their own fishing licenses. For a new experience, guests may wish to try fishing with a First Nations guide on the Fraser River. Cariboo Chilcotin Jetboat Adventures offers visitors the cultural experience of "dip netting" for wild Sockeye, Chinook or pink salmon.
Fishing Seasons  Many lakes are accessible year round and there is first-rate ice fishing on offer during the winter months here. Most lakes are attainable by road, although some require a bit of hiking, and four-wheel drive is recommended during the wet or wintry parts of the year. For the more adventurous, some secluded lakes can be reached by float plane and offer camping sites and lodgings. However, a good selection of resorts, lodges and campsites is located along accessible waterways closer to town.
Practical Points Licenses and gear are widely available in Williams Lake and nearby communities. The Williams Lake Tourism Discovery Centre/Visitor Centre, carries the excellent and informative Cariboo-Chilcotin Fishing Guide. Produced locally, it offers insider information on lake and river locations and fish stocks. Copies of the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis and good maps are also available at the Visitor Centre, and staff will be happy to help with directions.
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