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Fishing in the North

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NORTH OF PG

Williston Lake 173,139 Hectares (427846 Ac)

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.

39 metres (128 feet)

846 metres (2,776 feet)

• 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

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:

August 1976

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.

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Lake Access: Two popular local spots for camping and fishing are Cut Thumb Bay and Six Mile Bay Forest Recreation sites.

• Size #5 Blue Fox Matrixx Spoons • Blue/Silver T50/ T60 Flatfish or Luhr Jensen K15 Kwikfish •Large Williams White Fish Lake information provided by Reel North Adventures 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 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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Lake

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Germansen Landing

CHETWYND

Squaam

East Pine

! !

Manson Creek

Lone Prairie

Tumbler Ridge

MACKENZIE

Parsnip

4 3

McLeod Lake First Nation

17 23

! !

20 VANDERHOOF 19 21 PRINCE

GEORGE

14 16

! !

Kushya Creek

10 8

Salmon River Meadow

Cahoose

1 Williston Lake pg 2 2 Eaglet Lake pg 6 3 McLeod Lake pg 8 4 Carp Lake pg 10 5 Eena Lake pg 12 6 Summit Lake pg 14 7 Ness Lake pg 16 Vancouver Island 8 Kamloops Lake pg 18 Health Authority Ulkatcho First Nation Anahim Lake !

Nimpo Lake

Wells

QUESNEL

Hixon

Penny

huk Lake

! !

Towdystan !

Kleena Kleene

Tatla Lake

9 Ten Mile Lake pg 20 10 Dragon Lake pg 22 11 Bowron Lake pg 24 12 Tabor Lake pg 28 13 Purden Lake pg 30 14 Norman Lake pg 32 15 Vivian Lake pg 34 16 West Lake pg 36 Chilanko Forks

Redstone Flat !

Tsi Del Del (Alexis Creek) !

Tl'etinqox-t'in

Yunesit'in First Nation (Stone)

Tatlayoko ! Lake

Big Creek

Hanceville

17 Babine Lake N pg 38 18 Babine Lake S pg 40 19 Cluculz Lake pg 42 20 Fraser Lake pg 44 21 Bednesti Lake pg 46 22 Cobb Lake pg 48 23 Stuart Lake pg 50

Horsefly

Riske Creek !

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4 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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Kyle and Kylea Carr don’t want to send their three boys away from Giscome Elementary School, close to where they live, to another school that’s a 20-minute drive away in Prince George, but they really don’t have a choice. With only 10 students, one teacher and one classroom, Giscome can’t provide the educational opportunities and extracurricular activities kids in larger schools take for granted, they said. They support School District 57’s proposal to pull the plug on programming at Giscome and are willing to send their sons to Blackburn Elementary, which would be the catchment school if Giscome closes. “I think it would be a good idea,” said Kylea Carr. “There’s just not a lot of kids in the school and I don’t think they’re getting the same kind of socialization as some of the schools.”

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Danielle Malais and her daughters, eight-year-old Cooper, left, and 10-yearold Hadley, don’t want to leave Giscome Elementary School but with only 10 students and the student population expected to drop, they have no choice but to switch to a larger school in Prince George.

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Teacher/vice-principal Christine Anderson oversees a class that includes three GradeCOLIN 7s, oneSLARK Grade 6, one Grade Staff 5, two GradeCitizen 4s, two Grade 3s and one kindergarten student. The Carr kids eight and 10 needs report A are newsix, interim housing and ever since classroom was not only forthe theolder City of Prince George blended with theout younger one two goals years for the lays development ago the brothers have been municipality butfighting local developers as with each other often.said at the Monday, Dec. well,more city staff “There’s no consistency,” said Kyle 2 council meeting. Carr. “MarkusThe has interim had fourreport or fivesays Prince George different teachers. As soon as housing we wentunits built by needs 5,218 more from two classes to one class 2026 and 12,503 bythe 2041. Prince George behavioral changes my boys were saw 319 in housing starts in 2023 and 373 noticeable. in 2022, according to a city staff report “Everybody raised to have from last money January. this place builtThis but new we’rereport at a point was prepared to now where my boys a third of the under the meet theare city’s obligations population of the school and Government they’re province’s Local Act, not getting awhich proper education, and it’s mandates that municipalities unfair to thecomplete teacher, unfair to the staff an interim housing report by and unfair toJan. the1,kids. They be by Dec. 31, 2025, andwant a fullto report in a classroom.” 2028. Those figures are further broken CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 down into categories. By 2026, 3,652 housing units are

inside

pull out section

Interim housing report provides city councillors with the big-picture goal

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

The province’s Local Government Act requires that municipalities must complete an interim housing report by Jan. 1, 2025, and a full report by Dec. 31, 2028.

needed to meet anticipated population growth, 566 are needed as a buffer, 496 are needed for people experiencing homelessness, 306 are needed for the city’s core housing requirements, 175 are needed for those currently unable to form a

separate household and 21 are needed to maintain a city-wide vacancy rate of three per cent. By 2041 7,234 units are needed for population growth, 2,265 are needed as a buffer, 995 are needed for people experiencing homelessness, 1,224 are

needed for the city’s core housing requirements, 699 are needed for those unable to form a separate household and 95 are needed to maintain the three per cent vacancy rate. PLEASE SEE ‘HOUSING’ ON PAGE 2

Where to live, Insights from residence or Dr. Rahim Somani off-campus?

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505 4th Avenue, Prince George 250.562.2441 • www.princegeorgecitizen.com FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025 • 5

Eaglet Lake 854 Hectares (2,110 Ac)

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

9.5 metres (31 feet)

NORTH OF PG

592 metres (1,942 feet)

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,

July 1969

Feet

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.

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 Lake Access: places for anglers From Prince George, to stop, and there is head east on also a park on the Highway 16 about 15 northern shore. km, until you

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Lake information provided by Reel North Adventures 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.

6 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025 • 7

Mcleod Lake 2501 Hectares (6182 Acres)

Mcleod Lake supports a diverse year round fishery including Rainbow Trout, Northern Pike minnow, White Sucker, and Bull trout however Rainbow Trout and Northern Pike Minnow are the most commonly caught. Gear fishing including casting a trolling small spinners is always effective. Whiskers Point Park supplies a welcome stop-over point as well as a relaxing destination for an extended family retreat. This park features a beautiful sandy beach, representation of the wet, cool sub boreal spruce forest. Lakeside camping is at its best in this quiet, forested park situated on a

8.2 metres (27 feet)

756 metres (2,480 feet)

NORTH OF PG 1968

Feet

peninsula reaching into historic McLeod Lake, creating seclusion and a sheltered southern exposure. Campers marvel at the magnificent sunsets over the lake. Lake Access: Whiskers Point Provincial Park is located 130 km north of Prince George on Highway 97. Communities close to this park include Mackenzie, Mcleod Lake, Bear Lake and Prince George. Check the BC parks website before arriving for upto date park information and notice of any in-season closures.

*Closed for the 2025 Season

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8 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025 • 9

Carp Lake 5,676 Hectares (14,025 Ac)

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.

39 metres (128 feet)

NORTH OF PG 846 metres (2,776 feet)

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.

August 1976

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 Trolling at a distance of is also known to be 75 to 100 feet behind productive. Using a fish finder can greatly the boat, aim for a assist you in identifying the depth at which the fish are feeding.

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

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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.

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10 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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Eena Lake 54 Hectares (133 Acres)

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

23 metres (75 feet)

762 metres (2,500 feet)

ideal for trout and also great for kokanne year round. There is also a dock which provides shore fishing opportunities.

NORTH OF PG October 1988

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 If targeting Kokanee, ounces of weight. troll slowly in the There are lake specific deeper parts of the fishing regulations lake with Luhr Jensen so please consult the Kokanee/Trout flashers BC freshwater fishing or Lake Trolls like a regulations before Ford Fender. Attach heading out. an 18-30 inch leader Lake Access from your flasher or lake troll to a Wedding Eena Lake is located about 35 km north band or Small pink west of Prince George, Apex. Add scented near Nukko Lake. Kokanee corn or mealworm to your lure Follow Highway 97 north for about 15 km for better

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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.

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12 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025 • 13

Summit Lake 1,384 Hectares (3,420 Ac)

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

16 metres (52 feet)

706 metres (2,316 feet)

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

NORTH OF PG July 1979

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

Metres

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.

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14 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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NORTH OF PG

Ness Lake 203 Hectares (502 Acres)

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

18.3 metres (60 feet)

778 metres (2,552 feet)

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

August 1952

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.

Feet

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.

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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

16 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025 • 17

Kamloops Lake SOUTH OF PG 5,585 Hectares (13,798 Ac)

>150 metres (>500 feet)

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

342 metres (1,122 feet)

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

1962

Feet

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.

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18 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025 • 19

SOUTH OF PG

Ten Mile Lake 243 Hectares (600 Acres)

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

21 metres (69 feet)

707 metres (2,320 feet)

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

1958

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

Feet

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.

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20 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025 • 21

Dragon Lake 225 Hectares (556 Acres)

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

7.9 metres (26 feet)

595 metres (1,952 feet)

SOUTH OF PG May 1972

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.

“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.

Dragon Lake hosts native Rainbow Trout and an introduced

Effective gold fish fry imitations include small Rapala lures like

Feet

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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22 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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Bowron Lake 1,011 Hectares (2,498 Ac)

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

63.4 metres (208 feet)

912 metres (2,992 feet)

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

SOUTH OF PG July 1979

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 as Mepps spinners and small flat fish. Wedding Bands and Willow Leaves are also popular. For fly anglers try targeting the the mayfly hatch in late June and early July. 52 Buick, dragon

Feet

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 the town of Barkerville, Bowron Lake Road

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24 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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EAST OF PG

Tabor Lake 378 Hectares (934 Acres)

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.

8.1 metres (27 feet)

704 metres (2,310 feet)

June 1971

Feet

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.

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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.

28 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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EAST OF PG

Purden Lake 836 Hectares (2,067 Acres)

52.4 metres (172 feet)

777 metres (2,549 feet)

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.

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.

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.

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Utilize a flasher or a lake troll setup, such as a Ford fender. Use a 15-30 inch leader from your flasher or lake

Effective kokanee baits include ● Pink Maggots (real or synthetic)

● 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,

July 1969

begin by fishing 15-20 feet below the surface. Without a downrigger, incorporate 1-3 ounces of weight.

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interfere with your lures natural action. Lake Access:

Purden Lake Resort is located along Highway For fly anglers spring 16, about 60 km east and fall can be of Prince George. productive for Rainbow See purden.com for Trout. Mayflies, caddis, information. There dragonfly nymphs, is also a beautiful leechs, and woolybugger provincial park with patterns are a good bet. overnight camping, day Fish the shoals at the use area, beach, and east end and around boat launch facilities bays. Anglers may also along the northwestern find success casting edge of the lake (open off the docks at the between May and provincial campground September only). If using small spinners like heading east from Mepps in size #3 and Prince George the turn #4 or Panther Martin off is your first left after Spinners in Size 9. For you cross the Bowron increased opportunity River. try baiting your spinner with a small piece of worm but be sure to not over-bait as this can

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30 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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WEST OF PG

Norman Lake 515 Hectares (1,273 Acres)

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

23.8 metres (78 feet)

840 metres (2,756 feet)

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.

1968

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.

Feet

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32 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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WEST OF PG

Vivian Lake 45 Hectares (110 Acres)

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

8.2 metres (27 feet)

779 metres (2,235 feet)

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

October 1968

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

Feet

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.

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34 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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West Lake 503 Hectares (1,243 Acres)

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

15.2 metres (50 feet)

692 metres (2,270 feet)

work. Try in front of the day use area.

WEST OF PG August 1952

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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.

36 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025 • 37

Babine Lake North 46,499 Hectares (114,897 Acres)

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

186 metres (610 feet)

712 metres (2,336 feet)

WEST OF PG 1964

population. These rainbow trout feed on kokanee and salmon fry, and grow quite large.

Fly fishers can float the section of water between Babine Lake and Nilkitkwa Lake, known as Rainbow Alley. Fishing in Babine lake offers a Rainbow Alley can diverse year round be some of the best fishery. Popular in the province. species include Fly patterns that rainbow trout, lake can work well are trout, lake whitefish, stoneflies, chinook burbot and Sockeye salmon if regulations and coho fry, and allow. Please consult Epoxy Minnows and Stimulators. There are the BC Freshwater three major hatches Fishing Regulations to watch for— and DFO Region 6 Skeena: Recreational caddisflies, stoneflies salmon fishing limits, and mayflies. When openings and closures imitating these flies, it is important to know site for up-to date your insect’s patterns. information. For example, when emerging, damselflies will swim straight up and then to the edge, while dragonflies will swim to the edge before heading up.

Metres

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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38 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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Babine Lake South 46,499 Hectares (114,897 Acres)

Babine Lake continued

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 considered by many to be comparatively large and aggressive fish and have been

186 metres (610 feet)

712 metres (2,336 feet)

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.” Donaldson adds that, “Willow leaf and small “lifelike coloured” lures, such as green and yellow work well at shallower depths.” Early in the season the trout will inhabit shallow waters, but as the water warms up the fish migrate to deeper, cooler sections of the lake.

WEST OF PG 1964

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. Lake Access: There are four primary access points to Babine Lake— north of Burns Lake to Pendelton Bay Provincial Park; near Granisle at recreation sites and provincial parks; at Smithers Landing and at Fort Babine. Granisle is located north of Topley (on Highway 16), following the Granisle Highway. Access to Smithers

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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 the turnoff to Fort Babine on the right (east).

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40 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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Cluculz Lake 2,518 Hectares (6,222 Acres)

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

61 metres (200 feet)

767 metres (2,516 feet)

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.

WEST OF PG August 1952

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.

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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.

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42 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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Fraser Lake 5,463 Hectares (13,500 Acres)

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

30 metres (100 feet)

WEST OF PG

676 metres (2,220 feet)

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

August 1950

Feet

Fraser Lake. Beaumont Provincial Park and a Forest Service Recreation Site are just two possibilities for accomodation.

launch. From Nautley, turn onto Stella Road and follow the directions. Or, through the Stellako Reserve, turn onto Stella Road.

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.

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.

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.

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The Recreation Site on Peterson’s Beach also has a good boat

44 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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WEST OF PG

Bednesti Lake 261 Hectares (645 Acres)

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

20.7 metres (68 feet)

810 metres (2,657 feet)

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.

1968

Feet

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.

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The lake contains several species of sport fish, including Rainbow Trout,

46 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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Cobb Lake 210 Hectares (519 Acres)

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.

10 metres (33 feet)

WEST OF PG

777 metres (2,549 feet)

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

October 1982

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

Metres

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.

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48 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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Stuart Lake 36,423 Hectares (90,000 Acres)

96.6 metres (317 feet)

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

WEST OF PG

678 metres (2,225 feet)

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

July 1953

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

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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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50 • FISHING IN THE NORTH 2025

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