With the abundance of lakes we are blessed with in British Columbia, it can sometimes be intimidating to choose one that offers the greatest fishing and camping experience. For example, there are over 100 quality managed lakes within an hour’s drive of downtown Kamloops. By considering a few basic factors, this short article may make choosing a lake for your perfect getaway a simple process.
What are your fishing expectations?
Are you an experienced angler who likes chasing bigger fish in more challenging lakes? Or maybe you aren’t concerned about size of fish, but just want to get your feet wet to gain some experience and hone your techniques. With such diversity in our stillwater fisheries, it is easy to choose one, the other, or even lakes that offer a balance of both numbers and size.
The Interior holds many lakes that provide “trophy” stillwater fisheries. These nutrient-rich lakes have been managed to produce larger fish in fewer numbers. Such trophy lakes often have more restrictive angling regulations (which can include no ice-fishing, a bait ban, artificial fly-fishing only, and either catch-and-release or a limit of one fish over 50 centimetres) that promote the growth of trophy-sized rainbow trout.
Lastly, the information provided in online stocking reports will allow you to see whether lakes are stocked with sterile (3N) or non-sterile (2N) fish. In terms of growth, a big advantage of using sterile fish is that the energy expenditure that would otherwise be lost in the spawning process can be re-directed towards growing bigger more quickly.
Are you flying solo, or bringing a group?
Whether you are into “glamping,” just fine with pitching a tent, or merely setting up shop in the back of your vehicle, determining how many campsites you will need can play a big factor. Some of our more popular lakes will be busier during the open-water season, but are designed to accommodate greater numbers of anglers and campers.
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC’s “Where to Fish” map provides detailed information to help you plan a weekend fishing adventure. Whether you are looking for a lake with easy access that caters to a trailered boat, or one only suitable for a smaller car-top boat that’s a little harder to get into, the ability to filter your results will get you started in the right direction immediately.
Lastly, keep in mind that some lakes will be outside of cellular phone reception. For safety, it is ideal to carry a satellite phone, GPS, and always tell someone both where you plan to head and when you expect to return.
In closing
We are fortunate to have such a variety of campsites with angling in British Columbia. Utilizing resources provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC will help you gain a better idea of what to expect when visiting a lake for the first time. Now, get out and explore!
Other Resources
• BC Parks (https://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/)
• Recreation Sites and Trails BC (https://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/)
• Fishing with Rod (www.fishingwithrod.com)
• Fishing BC (www.fishingbc.com)
Author: Jordan Oelrich
Banner Image: Lundbom Lake, Anthony Bucci
Jordan Oelrich is the owner of Interior Fly Fishing Co. When he’s not guiding, Jordan shares his knowledge for fishing as a writer and fly-tying instructor.
Follow Jordan on Instagram or visit his website.