World-class freshwater fishing

There are few places on Earth that offer the endless miles of crystal clear streams, rivers and lakes found in Northern British Columbia. This is freshwater fishing at its finest – a paradise, offering challenging angling opportunities and beautiful, abundant stocks in glorious settings.

The Skeena Region is just one of the region’s popular freshwater fishing destinations. Located in the western part of Northern B.C., the Skeena is home to the powerful Steelhead, which average 4.5 kg (10 lb), but 13.5 kg (30 lb) and bigger are landed every year. Known for their fight, the feisty Steelhead is actually a member of the trout family. Season is from March to May and from August to November.

The Skeena River System is located between Kispiox and Prince Rupert, off Highway 16. Terrace is one of the main gateways to this scenic territory, offering close proximity to great Steelhead fishing.
Inexperienced anglers or those with limited time should consider hiring a guide. Anglers going solo may prefer the Kispiox, Bulkley, Zymoetz (Copper) and Morice Rivers, which run near logging roads and are usually very accessible.
The most common fish in the river system include the Steelhead, all five species of salmon, Dolly Varden and Cutthroat Trout.

The Atlin area offers an amazing variety of freshwater fish that is unmatched anywhere else in British Columbia. Road accessible fishing for huge Lake Trout to 30+ pounds, Pike of equal proportions, and some of the healthiest Arctic Grayling stocks found anywhere. Short airplane flights from Atlin lead to Rainbow Trout lakes with fish of double-digit weights, and rivers offering sea-run Steelhead, Bull Trout, Chinooks and Coho salmon.

The Spatsizi Plateau Wildnerness Park located north of Smithers has more of the best of Northern B.C.’s freshwater fishing spots. With access only possible by air, the 2,000 kilometres of rivers, lakes and parkland is pristine, as well as majestic. Rivers, lakes and streams are abundant in fish. The main species are Rainbow Trout, Arctic Grayling, Bull Trout, Char Lake Trout, and White Fish.

For a thrilling fight with a giant Coho, visit the Skeena and its tributaries, the Kasiks, Gitnadoix, Exchamsiks, Exstew, Lakelse, and Kitsumkalum Rivers, as well as the Kitimat and Nass River systems. Runs peak in September and October, although Coho start to appear in July and don't completely disappear until December.
The Morice, Babine, Sustut, and Kispiox Rivers, accessed from Hwy 16 and 37, are known for record steelhead (up to 37 pounds/17 kg). The best time to fish is in September and October. Lucky visitors to Idiot Rock just outside Moricetown off Highway 16 on the Bulkley River often witness steelhead fishing done in the native tradition, with men standing on steep cliffs, using spears and nets, just as their ancestors.  

Some of the best Rainbow Trout fishing is found on a legendary stretch of water known as "Rainbow Alley," in the Lakes District. This is where Babine Lake joins Nilkitkwa Lake and narrows into the Babine River. Around 300 lakes make up the Lakes District, including Babine Lake - longest freshwater lake in BC - and Francois Lake. Common catches in the Lakes District include Rainbow Trout, char and Kokanee.

Northeastern British Columbia is surrounded by many lakes, rivers and streams, Dawson Creek and the surrounding area are truly a four season paradise for fresh water fishing. Whether fishing from a lakeshore or a riverbank, you will have many choices in the area to find “the big one”.

While fishing you will be exposed to some of the most pristine natural areas of the world; often treated to views of deer, moose, bears, elk, bald eagles and other wildlife. Additionally, while visiting in the summer, one will experience the endless hours of summer daylight.

During the winter months, take advantage of the crisp air and snow blanketed landscape that is enjoyed by skiers, snowmobilers and ice-fishermen. While experiencing the northern climate let your mind wander as the sky lights up with vibrant displays of Northern Lights.