Vedder River
Winding Down an Amazing Steelhead Season
After an incredible steelhead season, we’re now approaching the end. While there are still some fresh fish pushing into the system here and there, they are not in high numbers, as the bulk of the run passed through in January and February.
That said, there are still opportunities to catch steelhead heading into late March. The best tactics include using soft beads (BnR), hard beads (Blood Dots), worms, or salmon roe.
With the heavy rainfall we’ve had in March, it’s best to size up your presentation to ensure the steelhead can see your lure or bait.
Just a heads up the river areas above Tamihi bridge have closed on April 1st.
Freshwater Lakes !
All of our local lakes have been stocked with trout. The best way to target stocked trout is by using a bobber rig with either artificial or live bait. PowerBait worms, maggots, or dough bait are great options, as well as live worms. Typically, a float between 5-12 grams is used, with the appropriate weight attached above the bait. Another effective method for targeting trout is using smaller spoons, such as a #1 or #2 Blue Fox, and retrieving it slowly.
https://www.gofishbc.com/stocked-fish/?start=2023-01-02&end=2025-04-02®ion=LOWER%20MAINLAND
Check out which lakes have been stocked !
Saltwater Report
After a fantastic winter-spring fishery, we have unfortunately reached the end of the season in April. Regulations now prohibit the retention or targeting of Chinook salmon. Typically, April is a great time to catch prawns and crab before the commercial season begins. While fishing opportunities are limited this month, we're only one month away from the bottom fish opening on May 1st!
https://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/tidal-maree/a-s29-eng.html
For those not solely targeting salmon, the Pacific Cod and Black Cod season along the Gulf Islands has been excellent. These fish are typically caught using specialty jigs in 200–350 feet of water.
Check out our recent catch !
