Some Fall Fishing Destinations & Campgrounds in BC

Now that summer holidays have officially  come to an end, this is definitely not the time to pack away your gear just yet. Especially not your fishing stuff.  In fact, the best fishing is still to come at lakes and rivers across British Columbia. Here are some great fall fishing destinations that were recommended by our friends at Go Fish BC!

Thompson River, Spences Bridge

The interior lake fisheries are heating up, but for river fishing enthusiasts, rainbow trout fishing in the Thompson is still good and salmon are moving through.

Anglers must have the appropriate Freshwater Fishing licence and non-tidal salmon stamp. Abide by the regulations, including using a single barbless hook, and remember to check both the provincial Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis and in-season regulation changes as well as the in-season salmon regulations on Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s website prior to heading out. The river becomes a classified water on October 1 each year.

Nearby Campgrounds:

Juniper Beach Provincial Park
Juniper Beach Provincial Park is a convenient overnight camping spot for travellers on Hwy 1. Both CNR and CPR railway tracks run by the park; an attraction to train-buffs. This park is popular for boating, fishing and photography.
Open until: Mid-October with full services and little or no services until December 31.

Acacia Grove RV Park Cabins
RV park and cabins with kitchens in a lush setting overlooking the scenic Thompson River, famous for steelhead fishing, whitewater rafting and mountain sheep. 15/30 amp, full hook-ups, pull-thrus, laundromat, free hot showers, flush toilets, small convenience grocery store, pay phones, game room, horseshoes, lawn bowling, volleyball. Pets welcome. Open year round

Jim Smith Lake (Jim Smith Lake Prov Park) in the East Kootenay’s, near Cranbrook

Stocked with catchable sized trout, the lake also has bass and perch. Very user-friendly lake, any and all methods should apply. Special fishing regulations include bass daily limit of 8, unlimited perch retention and no powered boats.

Nearby Campgrounds:

Jimsmith Lake 
Sunbathing, swimming, non-motorized boating and picnicking are popular activities at Jimsmith Provincial Park.
Open until Oct. 11 (campground is accessible but may not offer full services such as water, security, etc.)

Mount Baker RV Park 
A convenient East Kootenay Rockies RV park in Cranbrook. Many large shade trees, Joseph Creek and a warm friendly atmosphere. Can accommodate big rigs, also tent sites. Wireless internet, cable, laundry, ice, phone, hot showers. Pet friendly. Big Rig Friendly. Open until Oct. 31

Ross Lake, south end of the Skagit Valley Provincial Park near Hope

This is a large reservoir lake spanning Canada and the United States. Fish for bull trout (char), rainbow trout and brook char until November 1. If the bite is slow, try fishing the October cadis hatch on the Skagit River. No fishing November 1 – June 30. Abide by the regulations, including bait ban and single barbless hook, and remember to check the provincial Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis for catch quotas.

Nearby Campgrounds:

Skagit Valley Provincial Park 
The Skagit Valley was carved by retreating glaciers is characterized by excellent outdoor recreation in a natural, wilderness-like setting. Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking, river fishing, camping and picnicking. Open until Mid-October.

Now to the packing list, which I am sure will include a mountain of rain gear for everyone! And of course hot chocolate and baileys for the adults…yum.