Williston Lake
Williston Lake is a reservoir created by the W. A. C. Bennett Dam which is located in the Northern Interior of British Columbia. The lake includes three reaches, the Peace Reach, Parsnip, and Finlay Reaches, and covers a total area of 1,761 km2 being the largest lake in British Columbia and the seventh largest reservoir (by volume) in the world.
Williston Lake is famous for its exceptional Lake Trout fishery. Lake Trout can exceed 20lbs in size in Williston Lake. lake trout prefer larger lures, a local favorite are 6-inch white Tube Jugs from Black Pine Creative, which are effective for both vertical jigging in open water and ice fishing. Other excellent lure options include:
• Size #5 Blue Fox
Matrixx Spoons
• Blue/Silver T50/ T60 Flatfish or Luhr Jensen K15 Kwikfish
•Large Williams White Fish
• Len Thompson’s 5 of Diamonds
Stop by Corlane’s Sporting Goods in Prince George before heading out and they will ensure you have all the needed gear.
Popular Fishing
Spots are around Cut Thumb Bay, Six Mile Bay, Nation Arm, Finlay Bay and Peace Reach. Look
for shoals, drop-offs, cliff faces, cut banks, and flats. In spring, Lake Trout are also found in shallower waters, 20-30 feet deep. Lake Trout will move into deeper water as the water temperatures increase during the summer months.
Rainbow Trout, Bull Trout, Kokanee, and Burbot are also present in the lake.
LAKE ACCESS:
Two popular local spots for camping and fishing are Cut Thumb Bay and Six Mile Bay Forest Recreation sites.
Eaglet Lake
Eaglet Lake is a medium size lake east of Prince George, roughly 40 km from the city. It is close to the Willow and Fraser Rivers, and supports a diversity of fish species. In the spring and autumn, the lake has a good rainbow trout fishery, and is also popular for fishing burbot. Try slowly trolling for burbot before dusk just off the bottom with a heavy jigged tipped with roe or a
full worm. Go very slow like 0.5mph just to cover water. Burbot tend to lurk under rocks, amid roots, and in holes in banks. If you are spending the night, you may want to use a set line. The Freshwater Fishing Regulations explain the acceptable use of a set line. Keep in mind that the quota for burbot on Eaglet Lake is 1. If you are going after rainbow trout, try a casting rod with a Mepps,
Rooster Tail or Triple Teazer. If trolling, try a wedding band behind a Bolo or Ford Fender lake troll. Drop by Corlane’s Sporting Goods in Prince George at the fishing counter and they will take care of you.
LAKE ACCESS:
From Prince George, head east on Highway 16 about 15 km, until you
meet Upper Fraser Rd., and turn left (north). Follow Upper Fraser Rd. past the town of Willow River and into Giscome. This road meets Eaglet Lake along its western shore, and then wraps around the northern shore. There are several places for anglers to stop, and there is also a park on the northern shore.
Ferguson Lake
Ferguson Lake is a small lake within the City of Prince George, along the northeast edge of the city limits.
The lake had been stocked with brook trout for several years, but starting in 2007, the lake is being developed as an urban fishery. Each year since then, volunteers from the Spruce City Wildlife Association released rainbow trout into Ferguson Lake. In 2018, 3,000 Rainbow
Trout were released. The club developed this location into a popular local fishery for anglers and educators. In 2009, a larger dock was installed, and since then it has become a favourite local spot. It is easy to get to the
dock and the fishing is fantastic. This lake has been designated a family fishing water by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. Family fishing waters are so named because they are easily accessible and the lakes boast ample opportunities to fish from shore or a pier.
LAKE ACCESS
From Prince George, head north along Hwy 97 to Kelly Road North, still within city limits. Turn left (west) onto North Kelly Road and continue for approximately 1 km, then turn left onto Ferguson Lake Road. Stay on this road (keeping right at the fork where it turns to gravel). The lake is located on the left side of road. There is a small parking area and there is a dock on the lake. It is ideally suited for small watercraft, and no motors are permitted.
The lake is surrounded by a walking trail and nature preserve.
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19 Hectares (47 Acres) 6.1 metres (20 feet) 777 metres (2,549 feet)
2007 Metres
Carp Lake
Carp Lake Provincial Park spans over 48,000 hectares, connecting Carp Lake to the McLeod River. With its endless bays and islands, every visit offers a fresh adventure. The lake boasts a thriving rainbow trout fishery, with average catches weighing around 2 pounds. Whether you prefer fly fishing, trolling, or spinning, this scenic, island-dotted lake provides ample opportunities.
Trolling can be particularly effective using a small to medium Luhr Jensen Bolo lake troll. You can attach your weight at the top of the troll. Employ
an 18-30 inch leader connected to either a medium-sized red and white Triple Teaser or a small orange and bronze needlefish. Drop by Corlane’s Sporting Goods in Prince George and see the fishing counter and they will get you sorted.
Trolling at a distance of 75 to 100 feet behind the boat, aim for a
speed of about 2 mph. Experiment with varying your depth until you discover where the fish are actively feeding.
Explore the sheltered islands, bays, shoals, and drop-offs for the best fishing spots. The deep bay located on the northwest side is also known to be productive. Using a fish finder can greatly assist you in identifying the depth at which the fish are feeding.
LAKE ACCESS:
From Prince George, head north along Highway 97 roughly 140 km to the community of McLeod Lake. The turnoff to the park is Carp Lake Road on the left (west) side of the highway. This gravel road runs for 32 km to the park and is narrow in places. Please use caution along this road as it is also used by industrial traffic.
5,676 Hectares (14,025 Ac) 39 metres (128 feet) 846 metres (2,776 feet) August 1976 Metres
Eena Lake
Eena Lake is an ideal location, both for its beauty and its high catch rates. Eena Lake is stocked annually with Rainbow Trout and Kokanne. Families and newcomers will find this spot perfect for fishing.
Rainbow Trout take very well to the fly and Eena Lake’s hatches are ideal for fly fishers, offering leeches, chironomids, mayflies, damselflies, caddisflies, and dragonflies. Early and late in the season, fish the shallows, around the island and the shoreline debris for better results. In summer, the deeper areas at the north and south ends are
ideal for trout and also great for kokanne year round. There is also a dock which provides shore fishing opportunities.
If targeting Kokanee, troll slowly in the deeper parts of the lake with Luhr Jensen Kokanee/Trout flashers or Lake Trolls like a Ford Fender. Attach an 18-30 inch leader from your flasher or lake troll to a Wedding band or Small pink Apex. Add scented Kokanee corn or mealworm to your lure for better
attraction. A fish finder can help locate Kokanee schools, but if you don’t have one, fish 15-20 feet below the surface. Without a downrigger, add 1-3 ounces of weight. There are lake specific fishing regulations so please consult the BC freshwater fishing regulations before heading out.
LAKE ACCESS
Eena Lake is located about 35 km north west of Prince George, near Nukko Lake. Follow Highway 97 north for about 15 km
to Chief Lake Road, and turn left (west). Continue along Chief Lake Rd. for another 18 km (Note: at the 13 km mark the road forks - keep right at the fork).
At Eena Lake Road turn left (west) and continue for 5 km. Make a left turn at Woods Road, and then right onto Quinn Road. Access to the lake is at the end of the road.
54 Hectares (133 Acres) 23 metres (75 feet) 762 metres (2,500 feet)
Summit Lake
Situated north of Prince George, just off the highway, Summit Lake is a popular destination for a wide range of recreational activities. The area boasts a stunning landscape filled with numerous islands and arms waiting to
be explored. Fishing opportunities are fair and include Rainbow Trout, Bull Trout, Lake Trout, Burbot, and Northern Pike Minnow. The most commonly caught species is Northern Pike Minnow. Small Mepps spinners are quite effective
for Northern Pike Minnow and Rainbow Trout.
LAKE ACCESS:
To reach Summit Lake, travel north from Prince George for about 50 km. Turn left on Tallus Road and proceed aprox 3km. Turn left
and follow a short road (100m) to a public boat launch. There are also numerous private campgrounds on the lake accommodating both tents and Rv’s.
Ness Lake
Ness Lake, located near Prince George, is well-known for its recreational opportunities However, it is less known for its great fishing opportunities. Rainbow trout and kokanee are plentiful and stoked annually. Rainbow trout will prefer smaller spinners such as a Mepps, Blue Fox and Panther Martins in size 6 and 9. For fly fishers leech patterns, dragon fly nymphs, wooly buggers, and scuds are good searching patterns to try. Kokanee are the most popular species. Try slowly trolling a kokanee
flasher lake trolls or like Luhr Jensen Bolo, and FordFender. Attach a 15-30 inch leader from your flasher or lake troll. Use a longer leader for lures with their own action like an apex and a shorter leader for lures without action such as a wedding band. Small pink apexs or size #1 Luhr Jensen needle fish are great lures for koakanee. Tip your lure with some scented white shoe peg corn, pink maggots or mealworm remember to not over-bait, less is more. A fish finder will help you locate the kokanee schools
but if you don’t have one try 15-20 feet below the surface. If you dont have a down rigger add between 1-3 oz of weight. Remember troll slowly. Good spots to try for koakane is the main basin of the lake in the middle. For trout try closer to shore around drop offs, points and shoals. Be sure to check the regulations before heading out.
LAKE ACCESS:
From Prince George, follow Highway 97 north to Chief Lake Road on the left (west). Turn here and continue along this road for about
20 kilometres. Look for signs pointing to Ness Lake Community Hall on the right (north).
(Note: Chief Lake Road turns into Ness Lake Road about twelve kilometres from the Highway). There is also public access and a launch on the north west end past the turn off to eskers park.
Tchesinkut Lake
Tchesinkut Lake is a popular fishing lake for rainbow trout, kokanee and lake trout. While the lake trout fishery is open, normal quotas apply. The lake is also known for an abundant supply of small and medium size fish. Dave Wilejto, from Home Town Source for Sports in Burns Lake, says the rainbow trout and kokanee fishery is good. “Try fishing the bays for rainbow trout and kokanee,” he says, also suggesting the shallow spots off the points. His recommended lures for kokanee are wedding bands and gang trolls. He has also had some success with Apex lures, but says stick to the smallest size.
The lake trout fishery is only open two months of the year— February and July. All other months all lake trout caught must be released. This regulation was introduced in 2003 and also requires single, barbless hooks be used. When this fishery is open Wilejto suggests going down deep and use a Flatfish T50/ T60 in silver or coho blue. Some of the bigger spoons also have good luck attracting char. Remember to check the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations for regional quotas and rules.
LAKE
ACCESS From Burns Lake, head south on Highway 35 for about 14 km, until you meet Tchesinkut Lake Road. Turn left (east) and continue for about 5 km to the Agate Point Recreation Site. A second boat launch can be found another 5 km along this road.
Stuart Lake
WEST OF PG
Stuart Lake is a large lake found in British Columbia’s Central Interior. It measures over 65 km in length and more than 10 km across in some places, offering some of British Columbia’s best freshwater fishing.
Stuart Lake is an excellent fishery providing very good opportunity for Kokanee, Rainbow Trout over 5 pounds, Lake Trout up-to 12 Pounds, and Burbot. Recommended lures for catching big Rainbow Trout is the K13 blue and silver Kwikfish by LuhrJensen, pink/pearl or red/white Apex 3 inches in length. Try fishing these
15-30 feet below the surface. A 1-2 oz weight should do the trick. Rainbows are often feeding on fry that are 3 inches in length so keep this in mind when selecting Lure size.
If targeting Lake Trout don’t be shy to go bigger on your presentation. T50 flat fish, large blue and silver FST’s and Blue Fox Matrix spoons work very well on lake Trout. In the spring the Lake trout will be closer to the surface, try trolling your presentation around 15-30 feet. Go deeper as the water warms in the summer (50-90 feet). For Kokanee try trolling flashers
or lake troll such the “bolo” or “ford fender” with a small weeding band, apex, or Needle fish and bait your hook with a piece of scented Kokanee corn, meal worm, or pink maggot. Don’t be surprised if you hook into a big rainbow or lake trout either. There are many productive spots, try around the many islands, drop-off areas, and points/jetties. In the spring don’t over look the mouths of various rivers and creeks either. The cliffs faces on the north end of the lake have also been know to produce some large fish. Stuart lake fishes great all year
but you have to be careful because the weather changes fast. Remember to troll slowly, varying your speed slightly, and work in “S” curves.
LAKE ACCESS
From Prince George head west along Highway 16 past Vanderhoof until you meet Highway 27. Turn right (north) and follow until you reach the town of Fort St. James.
There are several access points to Stuart Lake, but only three locations are profiled here. All have boat launches and are on the southern shore of Stuart Lake.
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Cobb Lake
Cobb Lake, located approximately 70 km west of Prince George, is a beloved fishing destination. The lake boasts a thriving population of both stocked rainbow and brook trout, making it an excellent location to visit year-round.
During the fall, the lake experiences minimal fishing pressure, allowing trout to fatten up for the winter. As temperatures cool off after the summer heat, fish become more active again.
Cobb Lake is ideal for using small spinners, with plenty of shore casting opportunities and a dock available.
Consider trying Mepps Agilia gold in sizes #3 or #4, or a Panther Martin Size 9 in classic yellow with red dots. For added success, enhance your spinner with a small piece of worm.
Additionally, trolling with small Kwik Fish or Flash Fish can yield great results. Fly anglers may also want to experiment with Chironomid
patterns, leeches, and dragonfly nymphs for effective catches.
LAKE ACCESS:
From Prince George, follow Highway 16 west for about 65 km, and then turn right (north) at Finnmore Road just before Cluculz Creek. Follow Finnmore Road for 6 km and you will see another road on the right (name unknown). This road is not plowed in the winter and may not be suitable for driving. Continue
along this road for a short distance and the recreation site turn off (right) is just past the creek. You can access the lake from there.
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.
210 Hectares (519 Acres) 10 metres (33 feet) 777 metres (2,549 feet)
October 1982 Metres
Bednesti Lake
Bednesti Lake is a popular recreation lake, close enough to amenities yet far enough for a relaxing retreat. The trout are known for being aggressive fighters. They tend to prefer larger prey such as dragonfly nymphs, snails, mollusks and non-salmonid fish. They feed in the shallows and tend to be more active during the day than other strains of rainbow trout.
When targeting these trout, try a spoon in a green and nickel finish such as a Krocodile. A flasher combined with a spoon can be
highly effective, as it acts as an attractor.
Something to keep in mind hen fishing with spoons is to ensure that you are retrieving at the correct speed. Too fast, and your spoon will spin.
Please consult the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations for Bednesti Lake before heading out. A fishing closure is in effect between November 1 and April 30, and all lake trout caught must be released all year. Also no set lines are allowed.
The lake contains several species of sport fish, including Rainbow Trout,
Mountain Whitefish, Lake Whitefish, Lake Trout, and Bull Trout.
One survey indicated that Northern Pike also exist, but extensive surveys by fisheries staff have oncluded that it does not inhabit this lake.
261 Hectares (645 Acres) 20.7 metres (68 feet) 810 metres (2,657 feet)
Vivian Lake
Vivian Lake is a small jewel just north of Prince George. Home to brook and rainbow trout, the lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating and swimming. The fish reach good sizes and the lake is perfect for some tried tested and true fly patterns and lures. Because the stocked trout do not reproduce, they put all their energy
into getting bigger. For gear fisherman try a size 9 panther martin spinner in classic yellow with red dots and tip this with a small piece of worm. Fly fishers can try black leeches, chironomids under a strike indicator and Doc Spratleys. Bloodworms are also good pattern in the early spring for Vivian Lake. Try left and right
of the west end public boat launch along the shore line and shoal area. The various bays can also be good. Ice fishers are in for a treat. This popular ice fishing destination can be rewarding for patient anglers. VMC tumbler and tingler spoons tipped with shrimp or a piece or worm work well. Mighty minnows by black pine creative are
also a local favorite. Often anglers on the lake as soon as the ice is thick enough. Use the public access. Early bird gets the worm is true when it comes to ice fishing this lake.
LAKE ACCESS:
From Prince George, head north on Highway 97 to Chief Lake Road. Turn left and drive straight out. Do not turn at the sign to Chief Lake; continue straight. Approximately 5 kilometres after, the road turns to gravel. Vivian Lake Road is on the right hand side, but don’t turn here. Continue straight for approximately 500 metres to the public access road on the right hand side. The public launch and access is on the West side of the lake.
Hectares (110 Acres)
Fraser Lake
Fraser Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Its unlimited recreational opportunities, beautiful scenery and great parks are a good complement to the fabulous fishing.
Three beaches, including Beaumont Provincial Park, are great starting points for your fishing adventure. Kokanee, lake trout, burbot and rainbow trout are all present in Fraser Lake.
Because Fraser Lake is large and relatively deep, it does not suffer the summer doldrums as shallower lakes do. This makes for prime fishing all year.
When going after rainbow trout, local angler Mark Parker suggests that the best “all-around lures” will
be the Willow Leaf and Wedding Band, or a small Apex in any colour. A small F7 flatfish is also successful. Fly fishers will see best results with a muddler minnow or a leech pattern.
Anglers targeting kokanee can also use a Willow Leaf and Wedding Band.
There are many excellent fishing spots on Fraser Lake due to the many small bays. Parker suggests that fly fishers will do best among the weedbeds. “The area around the river mouth is great for trout, and the Ormond Creek area has prime trout fishing too,” says Parker.
LAKE ACCESS
There are several access points to
Fraser Lake. Beaumont Provincial Park and a Forest Service Recreation Site are just two possibilities for accomodation.
Beaumont Provincial Park, accessed from Highway 16, provides 49 private campsites with open views of Fraser Lake. Facilities provided include flush toilets, water, wood, and sani-stations during the summer months.
The park also has a day-use area as well as a sandy beach for swimming. A new self-guided interpretive trail offers eight signs that provide information on plants, animals, and history of the area.
The Recreation Site on Peterson’s Beach also has a good boat
launch. From Nautley, turn onto Stella Road and follow the directions. Or, through the Stellako Reserve, turn onto Stella Road.
Parker also notes that there is an excellent day-use area right in the town of Fraser Lake along the highway. Picnic tables and a good boat launch are just a couple of the amenities provided there.
5,463 Hectares (13,500 Acres) 30 metres (100 feet) 676 metres (2,220 feet) August 1950 Feet
Cluculz Lake
Cluculz Lake supports a great recreational fishery and is also popular for water sport activities. It provides a variety of species including rainbow trout, kokanee, lake trout, burbot and lake whitfish. Fly fishing, casting lures, and trolling are all very effective. Dragonfly nymphs and leech patterns are good to try for fly fishers. Gear fishers may want to try luhr Jensen kwik fish and spoons. Samller lures if targeting rainbow trout and large if going after Lake Trout. Please note that in 2008 Cluculz
Lake has been made a catch and release only fishery for lake trout. Please consult the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations for the most upto date information. In the winter burbot are a popular target amongst locals. 6 inch Glow in the dark white tube jigs from Black Pine Creative work excellent for Burbot and Lake Trout and can also be vertical jigged in the open water season.
LAKE ACCESS:
The road network around the lake provides many access points. To access the east and south sections of Cluculz Lake, turn left at Lloyd Drive (about 60 km from Prince George) and shortly after the turnoff, there will be access points to the east end of the lake. If you continue along Lloyd Dr. to the end of the road, you will come out at Somerset Estates and there is a small access point that will bring you onto the lake, near the island on the south west side.
The western section of the lake can be accessed via Maier Rd. off of Highway 16, and there are several locations along this road to pull off. Please remember that there is extensive private property around the shores of Cluculz Lake, so be careful not to trespass.
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.
2,518 Hectares (6,222 Acres) 61 metres (200 feet) 767 metres (2,516 feet)
Babine Lake North
Babine Lake is an excellent rainbow trout fishery known for rearing large rainbow trout and home to a unique strain of rainbow trout called the Sutherland
population. These rainbow trout feed on kokanee and salmon fry, and grow quite large.
Babine lake offers a diverse year round fishery. Popular species include rainbow trout, lake trout, lake whitefish, burbot and Sockeye salmon if regulations allow. Please consult the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations and DFO Region 6Skeena: Recreational salmon fishing limits, openings and closures site for up-to date information.
Fly fishers can float the section of water between Babine Lake and Nilkitkwa Lake, known as Rainbow Alley. Fishing in Rainbow Alley can be some of the best in the province. Fly patterns that can work well are stoneflies, chinook and coho fry, and Epoxy Minnows and Stimulators. There are three major hatches to watch for— caddisflies, stoneflies and mayflies. When imitating these flies, it is important to know your insect’s patterns. For example, when emerging, damselflies will swim straight up and then to the edge, while dragonflies will swim to the edge before heading up.
Angler’s Atlas Field Staff member
Kenneth Donaldson reports that the south end of Babine Lake, into Rainbow Alley, is great fishing. “I have fished at the Babine Lake end of Rainbow alley and caught more large Rainbows than when I have fished further into the lake (South of Granisle for example). This May be the fact that we were closer to the Rainbow Alley “funnel” and they were congregating there, but I would have expected these large Rainbows to congregate at the mouths of any tributaries, waiting for any injured fish releasing their eggs early.” The salmon population contributes to the great trout fishing in this part of the lake. Donaldson says that during June or thereabouts, the trout
Babine Lake continued
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46,499 Hectares (114,897 Acres) 186 metres (610 feet) 712 metres (2,336 feet)
1964 Metres
Babine Lake South WEST OF PG
from both Babine and Nilkitkwa Lakes migrate through the river to gorge themselves on sockeye fry.
Please be aware that several different restrictions apply. Angler’s Atlas Field Staff member Kenneth Donaldson says that the trout in Babine Lake, “are
known to bite on sockeye rigs (flashers and bead setup @ <30’) as well as plugs (green / yellow and blue worked for me) trolled at many depths. While you don’t need a downrigger, I think it just gives you more control on the repetition of what depth works.”
Babine Lake also supports a productive ice fishery. Lake Trout, Burbot, and Lake white fish are popular winter targets. White Glow Tube Jigs, spoons, and Rapala Jigging Raps are good choices for Targeting Lake Trout and Burbot under the Ice.
Landing/Fort Babine from Highway 16 is from Eckman Road, about 5 km east of Smithers on the right (east). Turn here and follow for 53 km. (Note: The road eventually turns into Babine Lake Road). Turn left (north) onto the Nilkitkwa Forest Service Road, and follow for 44 km, to
Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.
46,499 Hectares (114,897 Acres) 186 metres (610 feet) 712 metres (2,336 feet)
1964 Metres
Babine Lake continued
West Lake
West Lake (NADSILNICH)
is a popular local recreation spot for swimming and boating, and is an easily accessible location for fair fishing as well. Northern Pike Minnow and Peamouth chubb are extremely plentiful and easy to catch providing a great year round fishery for young children. The odd rainbow trout is always a possibility. Try small spinners like Mepps Agila #3 tipped with a small piece of worm in open water season. If ice fishing a small jig or spoon tipped with a small piece of worm will
work. Try in front of the day use area.
LAKE ACCESS:
West Lake Park is located 22km southwest of Prince George on the Blackwater Road on the north shore of West Lake. Follow Highway 16 west to Blackwater Road. Turn left (south) and continue for about 12 kilometres to West Lake Road on the left (east). Turn here and the park is about two kilometres. There is also a private campground nearby.
503 Hectares (1,243 Acres) 15.2 metres (50 feet) 692 metres (2,270 feet) August 1952 Feet
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Shane Lake
Prince George anglers can now enjoy two great fishing platforms on Shane Lake, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Polar Coachman Fly Fishing Club, the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund, the Ministry of Environment and the City of Prince George.
lake and is designed to make it easier to access deeper water from shore. This is especially helpful when the weather warms up and the trout go deep. This initiative was spearheaded by the late Bob Graham, who championed the process and made sure all the partners were aligned and moving forward. It is
away earlier this year. However, the club and The Angler’s Atlas have requested the City name the section of trail leading to the dock in his honour. We at the Angler’s Atlas feel this is a suitable way to recognize the hard work Bob carried out to make this project a reality.
FISHING THE LAKE
Shane Lake is very productive, with a lot of food for the fish. As a result, the trout grow fast. During the cooler seasons, the fish are found throughout the lake and can be easily caught from the dock at the northeast edge of the lake. In the heat of summer, the fish will generally be found in the deeper water. Anglers can visit the new dock on the western shore or carry in a small boat to access the deeper sections of the lake. Several members of the Angler’s Atlas have shared their reports and stories on the site.
LAKE ACCESS
The lake is located within Forests For the World, a park area
managed by the City of Prince George. From downtown, take 15th Avenue towards the university, and turn right on Foothills Blvd. just before the hill. Follow Foothills about a kilometre to Cranbrook Hill Rd. on the left (west) side of the road.
Follow Cranbrook Hill Road up the hill to Kueng Rd., on the left (south). Turn here and follow to the end of the road where the parking lot is located. The lake is a short, 10-15 minute walk from the parking lot. Canoes and small boats can be packed into the lake, or you can choose to fish right off the dock. To access the new dock, follow the trail along the northern shore of the lake and then turn left (south) onto another trail that follows the western shore of the lake.
Norman Lake
Norman Lake is southwest of Prince George, and is part of the Chilako River Watershed. Dahl Lake Provincial Park borders its sandy eastern shore, where there is public access to this lake. Norman Lake is also a popular cottage retreat for many local residents. Several species of fish inhabit these waters including Burbot, Rainbow Trout, Northern Pike Minnow and Lake Whitefish. The lake supports a moderate rainbow trout fishery and is a popular winter destination for
burbot anglers.
LAKE ACCESS:
From Prince George, head west along Highway 16 for approximately 40km, where you will meet Norman Lake Road on the left side of the highway (south). Follow this road for roughly 20 km, which will bring you to the eastern shore of Norman Lake.
Dahl Lake Provincial Park borders the eastern shore of Norman Lake, and provides access to the lake. It is a day use park, with a sandy beach and picnic tables. No facilities are available at the park.
515 Hectares (1,273 Acres) 23.8 metres (78 feet) 840 metres (2,756 feet) 1968 Feet
Tabor Lake
Tabor Lake, close to Prince George and offers good rainbow trout fishing year round. It is close to town and amenities, making it perfect for a quick trip after work or on weekends. Flies and lures both work well. For flies, leeches and wooly buggers in green, black and brown always produce and also work well when trolled on a full sink line. For lures small flat fish and spinners work well as does the old faithful wedding band and willow leaf combination.
There are ample shorefishing opportunities on Tabor Lake, making it an ideal place for kids to learn. There
are no particular restrictions on the lake so children will have fun learning here.
LAKE ACCESS:
From Prince George, head east along Highway 16 about 15 km to Giscome Road on your right (south).
There is a public boat launch at the north end of Tabor Lake. To get to the north boat launch, follow Giscome Road for roughly 2 km to Valhalla Rd., on your left (south) and turn here. At the end of this road is the public boat launch.
378 Hectares (934 Acres) 8.1 metres (27 feet) 704 metres (2,310 feet) June 1971 Feet
Purden Lake
Nestled on the western edge of the Rocky Mountains, Purden Lake is deep and known for its clear water. The lake offers a good fishery year round for Rainbow Trout, Kokanne and Burbot and is very popular for its kokanee fishery. Kokanee are stoked annually and offer a fantastic food fishery.
When targeting Kokanee, troll slowly in the deeper sections of the lake. A popular location is near the provincial campground beach area, situated in the middle of the lake. Utilize a flasher or a lake troll setup, such as a Ford fender. Use a 15-30 inch leader from your flasher or lake
troll to Wedding band or Small pink Apex. For lures that lack action, like a wedding band, opt for a shorter leader. In contrast, for lures that have their own action, such as the Apex, use a longer leader.
Effective kokanee baits include
● Pink Maggots (real or synthetic)
● Dyed-cured scented
White Shoepeg Corn
● Meal worms
● Dyed-cured shrimp
Avoid overbaiting the hook; one piece of corn or two small maggots per hook is enough. A fish finder can assist in locating Kokanee schools. However, if you don’t have one,
begin by fishing 15-20 feet below the surface. Without a downrigger, incorporate 1-3 ounces of weight.
For fly anglers spring and fall can be productive for Rainbow Trout. Mayflies, caddis, dragonfly nymphs, leechs, and woolybugger patterns are a good bet. Fish the shoals at the east end and around bays. Anglers may also find success casting off the docks at the provincial campground using small spinners like Mepps in size #3 and #4 or Panther Martin Spinners in Size 9. For increased opportunity try baiting your spinner with a small piece of worm but be sure to not over-bait as this can
interfere with your lures natural action.
LAKE ACCESS:
Purden Lake Resort is located along Highway 16, about 60 km east of Prince George. See purden.com for information. There is also a beautiful provincial park with overnight camping, day use area, beach, and boat launch facilities along the northwestern edge of the lake (open between May and September only). If heading east from Prince George the turn off is your first left after you cross the Bowron River.
Kamloops Lake
Kamloops Lake is a large, deep, river-fed lake that supports a healthy population of large rainbow trout. The sagebrush, prickly pear cactus and desert terrain create a beautifully rugged landscape to enjoy while fishing. Kamloops lake can be fished year round and because of its size and location anglers can experience open water fishing opportunities in the winter and early spring when other
lakes are frozen. It can be fished from shore or by boat. In the spring right after the ice comes off casting from shore using spoons like the Blue Fox Strobe Five of Diamonds and Mepps spinners can be very effective. Let your lure sink a bit after casting and retrieve as slowly as possible. As summer approaches and the water warms the fish will move deeper, this is where trolling from a boat and utilizing sonar
(fish finder) can help improve success. Other popular species that reside in Kamloops lake are Bull Trout and Burbot. Targeting burbot at night can be particularly effective. Be sure to consult the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations before heading out.
Ten Mile Lake
243 Hectares (600 Acres) 21 metres (69 feet)
Ten Mile Lake is well known for its provincial park, but also offers good fishing opportunities.
The lake is stocked annually with rainbow trout and kokanee and is a great fishery for both rainbow trout and kokanee. Fly fishing on Ten Mile Lake for Rainbow Trout is also great. The best time to fish this lake for rainbows is in the spring. During the summer months, the
fishing can be slower, so anglers may want to try going out in early morning or evening during this time of the season for trout. Early in the season, try chironomid and nymph patterns. In the fall try the 52 Buick or leech pattern for best results.
For Kokanee the opportunities can be great year round and is also popular during the winter ice fishing season. A popular technique for catching
SOUTH OF PG
kokanee in the open water season is trolling a small flasher with a small spoon such as dick nite or luhr Jensen #1 needle fish. Also try trolling with a gangtroll using a snubber with a wedding band. Snubbers tend to really helpful when targetting kokanee, because hooks without snubbers can do considerable damage to their soft mouths and result in fish getting off when they thrash around. Popular
kokanee baits include Pink Maggots (real or synthetic), Dyed-cured scented White Shoepeg Corn, and Meal worms. For kokanee try around the north end of the lake where it is deepest. Avoid overbaiting the hook; one piece of corn or two small maggots per hook is enough. A fish finder can assist in locating Kokanee schools. However, if you don’t have one, begin by fishing 15-20 feet below the surface. Without a downrigger, incorporate 1-3 ounces of weight.
LAKE ACCESS:
From Quesnel, head north along Highway 97 about 12 km, and look for the turnoff to Ten Mile Lake Provincial Park. Access to the lake is through the provincial park and located just west of Highway 97. The park is located on the eastern shore of this lake with three sandy beaches, a boat launch and numerous camping sites.
Caution: Do not use this map for navigational purposes. This map may not reflect current conditions. Uncharted hazards may exist. Base Map ©Province of British Columbia.
Bowron Lake
Bowron Lake is one of several lakes that make up Bowron Lake Provincial Park, known around the world for its first class canoeing circuit. Although less known for the fishing, the lake has many species of sport fish and supports a reasonable fishery for Rainbow Trout, Bull Trout, and
Lake Trout. Please note there are many important lake specific fishing regulations, please consult the BC freshwater fishing regulations (Region 5) before heading out.
The Bull trout and Lake trout will target the sockeye fry as they make there migration downstream and
through the lake chains. Try trolling using a blue and silver K11 or K13 Kwikfish or small Apex. The Rapala X Rap is a great imitation of migrating salmon fry or general bait fish. Trolling Blue Fox Matrix spoons can work well for Lake Trout. For rainbow trout try smaller presentations such
fly nymphs, and wooly buggers are also solid choices. The fish move around the lake so watch for signs of rising fish and cover water.
LAKE ACCESS:
Bowron Lake is approximately 120 kilometres east of Quesnel. Follow Highway 26 past the town of Wells. Just before reaching Barkerville, Bowron
Puntzi Lake
Puntzi Lake is a great place for a getaway. This large, deep lake offers excellent fishing and varied accommodation options. Both rainbows and kokanee inhabit these waters.
Colleen Peters, from Woodlands Fishing Resort on Puntzi Lake, says that the trout and kokanee fishing are very productive. Spinning and trolling are probably the most effective techniques, and there are a number of different setups that will work well. “Small Gang Trolls with worms, spoons such as a Dick Nite, a Willow Leaf and Wedding Band, all are good choices. Also, Flashers can work well and are popular,”
“When you get to the centre of the east side, a downrigger can be helpful too, because of the depth,” she adds. There are several weedy areas, and Peters notes that these can be the best places for fly fishing. The food is abundant, and the weeds are good cover. Early in the season, and again in the fall, are the best times for fly fishing. Keep an eye out for the endangered white pelicans in the spring and summer, and trumpeter swans later in the fall. Please do not approach these birds. Boaters are asked to stay 100 metres from the island shore, which is where many of the
birds have been nesting in the past few years. More information is available at the resorts on the lake. Watch for information about the popular Puntzi Lake Fishing Derby. In 2020, the derby will take place from July 10th-12th at Woodlands Fishing Resort, which is hosting the annual derby this year. There are cash prizes, including prizes for largest kokanee, largest trout, and largest overall fish. As well, Peters says that there will be daily prizes. People can register right at the resort on the day they fish, and they can come for the whole weekend, or just a day.
The derby is a great time for everyone, and a wonderful chance to get out and enjoy the fishery on Puntzi Lake. As well, Peters says that the derby will coincide with the resort’s grand opening.
LAKE ACCESS
From Williams Lake, follow Highway 20 west, about 65 km past Alexis Creek, to the turnoff to Puntzi Lake. Turn right (north) and follow this road for about 11 km until you reach the western shore of Puntzi Lake. Along with the resorts on the lake, there is a forest recreation site off the main road that is RV accessible. The site has six vehicle units and a cartop boat launch.
Dragon Lake
Dragon Lake, near Quesnel, BC, is a renowned Stillwater fishery. This lake’s nutrient-rich waters support large trout and offer excellent fly fishing in spring and fall, as well as ice fishing in December and January.
Fly anglers find success with Chironomids under a strike indicator, and by stripping leeches and nymphs with an intermediate sink line. Trolling leech patterns on a full sink fly line is also effective.
Dragon Lake hosts native Rainbow Trout
and an introduced “Horsefly” strain to address the goldfish issue. This strain’s introduction since 2020 has enhanced fishing opportunities, with trout growing large and are very aggressive.
Effective gold fish
fry imitations include small Rapala lures like the BX Brat, and Luhr Jensen Gold Needlefish, especially post-ice-off and in late fall. Spinners like Mepps in Size 3 & 4 and Panther Martin in size 9 are also popular. The entire lake can produce popular fishing spots including bays, the island at the north end, and the lake’s southern end. During ice fishing season, try small lite gold spoons, Rapala Jigging Raps and Mighty Minnows from Black Pine Creative. Try around drop offs ranging from 6-20 feet deep.
LAKE ACCESS:
There are two popular access routes—one through Robert’s Roost RV Park, and another public boat launch on the eastern shore.
From Quesnel, head south along Highway 97 to Quesnel-Hydraulic Road (east). Follow this road as it wraps around the north-eastern shore of Dragon Lake. Watch for the public boat launch along the right side of the road (west).
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225 Hectares (556 Acres) 7.9 metres (26 feet)
metres (1,952 feet)
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