For both recreational and hardcore anglers, fishing on the Fraser River is one of Mission's great pleasures.
Mission has been dubbed the "Sturgeon Capital of the World," as the river teems with this huge, prehistoric fish species. There's also world-class salmon and trout fishing in the Mission area.
Sturgeon fishing is a year-round attraction on the Fraser River, although the peak times are spring and fall. Sturgeon are a true test of strength for fishers. Covered in bony plates, they weigh anywhere from 27kg/60lb to 136kg/300lb and range in length between 120cm/4ft and 180cm/6ft. The oldest recorded sturgeon lived to be nearly 160 years old.
In Mission, the dyke on the Fraser River between Harbour Park and Dewdney Slough is a prime area for anglers to reel in sturgeon.
Guided fishing boat tours are also available. There's a boat launch at Harbour Avenue next to Horne Street on the Mission Waterfront, and a free boat launch exists at Dewdney Nature Park.
Salmon Fishing
Looking to catch some mighty salmon? The best salmon fishing on the Fraser River takes place between mid-June and mid-November, but salmon start migrating here as early as April. Their numbers soar into the millions.
All five major types of salmon – chinook, sockeye, pink, coho, and chum – can be caught on the Fraser River and other area rivers such as the Harrison River, Vedder River, and Chehalis River. Check with local guides or the Visitor Centre about peak fishing opportunities.
Trout Fishing
Freshwater fishing aficionados also flock to Mission for trout fishing. Rainbow trout abound in lakes and rivers around Mission. These fish (also known as steelhead) can weigh as much as 13.6kg/30lb, although trout half this size are considered trophy-worthy.
Go float fishing or fly fishing for rainbow trout, cutthroat, kokanee, and Dolly Varden in Stave Lake or Hayward Lake. The Chilliwack River is another great source for rainbow trout.
For a fun family experience in Mission, Sun Valley Trout Park uniquely combines camping with trout fishing on its 15ha/37ac grounds. It provides more than 40 campsites, fishing ponds, tennis, horseshoes, and hook-ups for recreational vehicles.
Guided Fishing Trips and Equipment
The Mission area has many reputable suppliers for fishing trips and rentals. STS Guiding Service has been in business since 1994, and offers guided fishing tours that last from one day to two weeks. Silversides Fishing Adventures offers specialized fly fishing and heli-fishing. Stock up on fishing gear at stores like Belles Sports in Mission or Hub Sports in nearby Abbotsford.
For more information about fishing, catch-and-release policies, and guided fishing tours in the area, stop by the Mission Visitor Centre. Always remember to get a BC fishing license before embarking on a fishing adventure.
Read Less