Fishing in Chilliwack is all about taming the prehistoric monster – Sturgeon! With an eight-month peak season, there’s hardly a time you can’t go after this fish. On the other hand, if you’re after Salmon, you need to choose the right time to come – their upstream runs are sudden and brief during the summer, like a true freshwater blitz. The Fraser River also offers great Steelhead fishing, especially during the months when Salmon is not around.
Which trip should I choose?
This depends on what you want to catch. Salmon make their run during summer, Steelhead peaks during winter, and Sturgeon is available year-round.
Another thing to take into account is how determined you are to catch a trophy fish. We’re not talking about fishing experience, but rather, persistence and patience.
Sturgeon are powerful fighters and you won’t reel one in that easily. These living fossils jump out of the water when hooked and pull with force. Being the biggest freshwater fish in North and South America, the average Sturgeon grows around 6 feet long, with monster specimens exceeding 11 feet. You’ll go bottom fishing for them in deep holes under dams and falls and use mostly heavy tackle.
If you’re interested in fish that are smaller but still put up a great fight, target different kinds of Salmon. The Fraser River is the main artery for their upstream journey, where they go to spawn. Steelhead is another fighter that can make your fishing trip very exciting. The more challenging way to catch them is by fly fishing and the experience is completely worth the effort! These species are also tasty, which means you have the bonus of a delicious dinner afterward.
Regulations
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Everyone fishing in British Columbia needs to have a valid fishing licence. Freshwater fishing licences can be purchased from the BC state authorities.
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Sturgeon is limited to “catch and release.”
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A five-year stock recovery program for Chinook Salmon was introduced in 2019. You’ll still be able to catch them but keeping them is cut down to a minimum during the summer.
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British Columbia is divided into regions, each with its own set of fishing regulations. Chilliwack is in the region No. 2, the Lower Mainland. Be sure to check the fishing regulations for this area, as they change every year.
Chilliwack is only an hour ride east of Vancouver. Simply follow the Fraser River and you’ll find yourself in a unique combination of urban charm and natural beauty. After an exciting day of fishing, top-up your Chilliwack fishing trip by visiting the captivating Bridal Veil falls, horseback riding, or take a hiking tour.