FISHING

At Hope, Cascades & Canyons, we’ve earned a reputation for our legendary White Sturgeon Fishing, an experience that lures anglers from all over the world for the chance to catch these prehistoric river giants. But our angling adventures don’t end there. From Largescale Sucker and Rainbow Trout, to Steelhead and Kokanee, every cast promises the excitement of a new discovery. Whether you’re drawn by the fame of our White Sturgeon or seeking the tranquillity of casting a line amidst breathtaking natural beauty, the lakes, rivers, and streams of Hope, Cascades & Canyons offer an unparalleled fishing experience that promises both excitement and serenity. Embark on a fishing quest with us, where each pull on your line connects you to the raw beauty and spirit of our wild waters.

Rivers & Creeks

For avid anglers seeking a diverse fishing experience, the river and creek waters surrounding Hope are a true bounty. Take a boat ride to the famed Pipeline Bar on the Fraser River and cast for Steelhead, Chinook, and Sockeye Salmon (coordinates N49°22.18′ W121°30.39′). Alternatively, explore the vigorous currents of the Coquihalla River, a perfect spot for hooking Chinook, Steelhead, and Dolly Varden from the convenient access and boat launch at Rotary Trails Park (N49°23.41′ W121°26.23′). Fly-fishing enthusiasts will find their paradise along the Skagit River’s upper stretches as it flows into Ross Lake. Those seeking a more isolated adventure can head to American Creek for rainbow trout in the summer and Chinook salmon fishing in the fall, or visit Emory Creek, a hideaway for Dolly Varden fishing.

Guided Adventures

For those seeking an exceptional and educational fishing experience, we highly recommend booking with one of these top-tier guided fishing service providers:

Regulations

Navigating the waters of Hope, Cascades & Canyons for freshwater fishing is not only an inviting adventure but also a responsibility. Anglers are bound by specific regulations designed to preserve our vibrant fish populations and their habitats. From understanding seasonal catch limits to species-specific restrictions and the necessity for a valid fishing license, every rule is in place for the good of the ecosystems and future fishing prospects. Additionally, practices aimed at combating the spread of invasive species are critically important. To ensure you’re up-to-date with the latest policies, catch limits, and conservation efforts, it’s crucial to stay informed at Freshwater Fishing in B.C.

Triassic Park

Welcome to our world where time stood still by Great River Fishing Adventures

The Fraser Canyon from Hope to Lillooet is arguably one of the finest and most beautiful areas to fish and visit. If you are looking for history, culture, tradition and more importantly, an adventure experience of a lifetime, this is the place to stay and play.

The Fraser River Gold Rush began in 1858 and was the drawing card bringing people here for the fortunes of gold. In these modern times the “new gold” is experiencing catching and releasing a white sturgeon. There are also five different species of Pacific salmon along with steelhead, searun cutthroat, rainbow and bull trout that return from the ocean to our mighty Fraser River and its tributaries. These fish pass through our waters on their annual spawning runs.

One massive fish in particular calls these waters home all year. The white sturgeon are literal dinosaurs and have been on earth for 200 to 300 million years, since the Triassic era. These giants are the world’s largest freshwater big game fish and are known for their incredible power and aerial display once hooked. They can be caught and released 365 days per year, providing lots of opportunity for locals and world travellers. There are professional fishing guides in the area with boats and equipment to ensure your experience is safe and one that will allow you to learn more about this incredible species. The Fraser River has the healthiest population of these magnificent fish in the world.

In past decades, salmon and steelhead fishing was the lifeline of our Fraser River fisheries, sportfishing and tourism. People flocked from all over the world to catch the chinook and to see the runs of sockeye, which reached upwards of 30 million fish in peak years.

It was 10,000 years ago when the last ice age carved out the Fraser Canyon, and since then Indigenous peoples of the area have relied on the salmon run. The unique “wind-drying sockeye salmon” can only be done in the Fraser Canyon areas with the hot winds and low moisture. Local Indigenous people referred to this fish as their currency in those days, and it was used to trade for other goods from other regions.

The Hope area is also home to rainbow, cutthroat and bull trout, which can be found in most of the lakes, streams and rivers nearby. The Skagit River (considered by many to be a blue ribbon dry fly stream) and Coquihalla River, as well as Ross Lake, Kawkawa Lake, Jones Lake and Lake of the Woods also provide a wealth of fishing opportunities. Keep in mind that Kawkawa Lake also has scrappy Kokanee and a decent population of bass. It’s truly a gem of a lake so close to Hope.

Whatever your speed, there is a fishery nearby that will meet your needs. Before venturing out, please check with local tackle stores and the Freshwater Fishing Synopsis for local angling regulations. Come join us in this unique adventure zone, exploring the waters of the Hope, Cascades and Canyons region.

#ExploreHCC

Sturgeon selfie, salmon snap? Share your catch and see what others reeled in!

people on bank with feet in lake.

KAWKAWA LAKE

Minutes from downtown Hope, Kawkawa is a family favourite with a diverse array of species such as Northern Pikeminnows, Sculpins, and Chubs. Easily accessible, the lake features amenities including a boat launch, picnic areas, and washrooms. It’s a bustling spot in summer with both swimmers and campers, yet remains a prime fishing location year-round, aside from a seasonal closure from December 1 through February 28.

Kayak and Canoe rental building at Lightning Lake in Manning park

LIGHTNING LAKE

A favourite due to its pristine alpine location in Manning Park, Lightning Lake is a gorgeous spot to fish for Rainbow Trout. The tranquillity of the area is preserved by a ‘no motorized boats’ policy, ensuring the only ripples in the water are those made by nature or your line. Access is made easy with paved roads leading directly to this pristine fishing haven. Nearby Flask, Strike, Thunder, and Poland Lake also offer more remote fishing experiences.

a person lazily floats on an innertube on a lake

SCHKAM LAKE (LAKE OF THE WOODS)

Just off the pulse of Highway 1, discover Schkam Lake’s waters, teeming with annually stocked Rainbow Trout as well as Largescale Sucker and Steelhead. Whether you’re launching a canoe or fishing from the shore, the lake can get busy but the facilities support a seamless day of angling.

shore and lake surrounded by tall mountains

SILVER LAKE

Embark on a fishing quest at Silver Lake, a prized locale south of Hope via Flood Hope Road and the Silver Skagit Road. At the end of the gravel road, anglers will find ample parking and a boat launch for easy lake access (10Hp motor limit). Here, catch-and-release trout fishing reigns supreme, however, there’s a rich variety of fish, including Salmon, Dolly Varden, Kokanee, and Steelhead.

looking over a kayak bow on ross lake

ROSS LAKE

Secluded in the Cascade Mountains, Ross Lake offers an unparalleled fishing adventure, with clear waters stocked with Rainbow and Eastern Brook Trout. Perfect your angling skills in both the warmth of summer and the crisp cool of winter ice fishing. Journey cautiously along the 80-kilometre gravel and graded road — it’s a rugged path that leads to rugged memories.

the end of a dock and a lake in the background

BLUE LAKE

Blue Lake at Blue Lake Resort offers a peaceful, secluded paradise just 15 minutes from Boston Bar. This small hidden gem is accessible only to guests, ensuring a tranquil experience away from the bustling crowds. The resort offers boat rentals, providing the perfect opportunity to explore the serene waters of the small lake at your own pace. Whether you’re paddling quietly in the early morning mist, or trying to catch a fish from your kayak, Blue Lake is an exclusive retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the lake life for more than just a day trip.

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© , Tourism Hope Cascades and Canyons | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | We respectfully acknowledge that the Hope Cascades and Canyons region is located on the unceded traditional territories of the Chawathil, Cheam, Seabird Island, Shxw’ōwhámél, Yale, Peters, Popkum, Skawahlook, Spuzzum, Boston Bar, Boothroyd, Union Bar, Upper Similkameen and Lower Similkameen First Nations. These diverse and vibrant communities represent the Nations of the Stó꞉lō, Nlaka'pamux, and Saimilamix peoples. We honor and recognize the deep connection these Nations have to the land, the waters, and the rich history of this area. We are committed to learning from and supporting their stewardship, culture, and community.