Fishing
Fishing at sunset (Picture BC photo)
Fishing in Powell River means year-round variety and abundance.
Whether it's saltwater angling or freshwater fly-fishing that visitors crave, options are easy to find on the upper Sunshine Coast. Grab a rod and aim to reel in the catch of a lifetime.
Saltwater Fishing
Salmon are the main fishing claim to fame in this coastal city, 145km/90mi northwest of Vancouver. Glistening chinook salmon can be caught throughout the year, with prime ocean fishing in the summer. Some weigh in at more than 13.6kg/30lb. Coho salmon abound along the coast from August to November, and hooking pink salmon and chum salmon is a good bet as well in the late summer or early fall.
Saltwater Fishing Locations
There's always good fishing at Coho Point and Blubber Bay on nearby Texada Island, and the waters around Harwood Island teem with salmon. Alternatively, hook up a fishing charter and explore the fish-rich waters of Desolation Sound. Trolling with a downrigger is a savvy option.
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Several local fish hatcheries – the First Nations-operated Sliammon Fish Hatchery, the Catalyst Mill Hatchery, and Lang Creek Hatchery – play an integral role in keeping salmon stocks high. Visit in October and November to witness salmon spawning.
Bottom fish such as cod, snappers, and perch can also be caught around Powell River, and there is excellent prawning and crabbing for seafood aficionados, plus oysters and clams.
Freshwater Fishing
Cutthroat trout and Rainbow trout (steelhead) draw avid fishers to Powell River-area lakes, rivers, and streams. Catch trophy-sized Cutthroat weighing up to 4.5kg/10lb. Kokanee salmon are another mainstay catch. Other varieties of salmon can be caught in rivers during the fall spawning season.
Three prime fishing lakes – Powell Lake, Goat Lake, and Inland Lake – are closed November through March, but all other local lakes are open for fishing year round. Try spincasting and trolling for trout from April to October, and in December and January. Catch-and-release policies are in effect. Canoeing enthusiasts should note that many of the best freshwater fishing havens are located along the famous Powell Forest Canoe Route.
Fishing Rentals, Equipment, and Tips
- Equipment rentals and fishing-charter services are available at several operators.
- Powell River Outback Adventures arranges heli-fishing trips and outback fishing expeditions in the Coast Mountains.
- Appropriate fishing licenses are required for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. These are available online through the BC Government.
For more information on fishing in Powell River, contact the Visitor Centre. The Visitor Centre sells the Official Recreation Map for the Upper Sunshine Coast, which lists numerous fishing hotspots.
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