Wild, Wild Canada | Fly Fishing Whistler BC
Fly fishing Whistler, BC should be on every angler’s bucket list. Imagine picturesque rivers, glacial-fed lakes, and mountains visible from every angle. On top of that, fish are biting year round and the well-stocked waterways are a haven for rainbow trout. Bring your own gear or take a trip with a local outfitter to get out on the water and catching fish in no time.
Best Lakes and Rivers Around Whistler to go Fly Fishing
In and around Whistler there are great rivers and lakes to fish from but venture a bit further and you’ll find even more with different fish species.
Lost Lake
Lost Lake is within walking distance from Whistler Village and is a great spot to fish year round. A nice trail surrounds the lake and there are several beaches and docks to fish from. The lake is filled with rainbow trout, lots of them, and is the perfect lake for families.
Nita Lake
While Nita Lake is one of the smaller lakes in Whistler, it is stocked annually with well-sized trout. Fish from the shore right next to the creek or hop in a boat or float tube to maximize your chances. This lake will keep you busy and if you’ve never tried fly fishing before it’ll get you hooked.
Green Lake
Green Lake is located just north of Whistler Village and is the largest lake in Whistler. It also produces the largest fish in any of the lakes in Whistler making it a popular spot for anglers. It is also incredibly beautiful with bright green glacial water and incredible views of the surrounding mountains. There are three major creeks that feed into Green Lake so situating yourself at these points make for successful fishing.
Squamish River
The Squamish River is located thirty minutes south of Whistler and is home to incredible salmon runs and offers great trout fishing as well. Salmon fishing on the Squamish River typically begins in July and ends in November, where you will find coho and chum salmon.
Steelhead also can be found here in the winter months and into spring, and be sure to look out for eagles, bears, and other wildlife that call this river home.
What’s on Your Whistler Fly Fishing Bucket List
In Whistler, there are multiple trout species that call the area home – rainbow trout, bull trout, Dolly Varden, and Cutthroat trout. You can also catch all five Pacific salmon within a forty-five minute drive from Whistler, including coho, chum, chinook, pink, and sockeye.
Get the Most Out of Your Fly Fishing Trip with an Experienced Guide
If fly fishing Whistler is on your bucket list, it’s definitely worth taking a trip with an experienced guide who will provide all the gear, will take you to the best fishing spots in town, will teach you the skills you need to succeed, and will even pick you up and take you home after it’s all done.
You’ll be glad you spent the money on a guide, and review don’t lie – past guests raved about the trip, caught lots of fish, and can’t wait to come back to do it all again!
Three Hour Morning or Evening Trip
Three hour fly fishing trips are offers in the morning or in the evening when the bite is hot and are the most productive times to be out fishing. Fishing guides will take you to creek mouths or lakes that will ensure the highest probability of catching wild trout.
On a three hour tour, you’ll be suited up in boots and waders and will spend about two hours perfecting your fly fishing technique and catching lots of fish. The three hour tour is perfect for those looking to get a taste of fly fishing, are limited for time, or don’t have the budget for a full day.
Rates:
- One Adult: $249
- Groups Up to Four: $169/person
Five Hour Morning or Evening Trip
Spend more time on the water and catch more fish! On a five hour tour, you may go to several different spots to catch fish which is a great way to experience more secret and scenic spots in Whistler. Guides will coach you through casting and setting the hook and there will be no shortage of knowledge shared to take away the intimidation and get you hooked on fishing Whistler!
Rates:
- One Adult: $339
- Groups Up to Four: $229/person
Eight Hour Full Day Trip
Got a whole day to spare? Fishing fanatics will love spending a full day on the water catching tons of fish while taking in the amazing surroundings. No matter the weather, the fish are always biting in Whistler and there’s no pre-planning required – your guide will do all that for you and provide you with all the best gear for your day. A full day tour starts in the early morning and you may explore multiple rivers and lakes to ensure the best catch depending on the time of year.
Rates:
- One Adult: $449
- Groups Up to Four: $289/person
Three Hour Ice Fishing Tour
That’s right – you can mix fishing into your ski holiday during your next trip to Whistler! Ice fish on a secret lake that is stocked annually with rainbow trout. Your guide will set up a cozy shelter with a heater inside that will keep you warm and toasty.
A hole is drilled into the ice and you’ll be fishing in no time – you can even look down the holes to see the fish striking your lure. If you’re looking to take a day off the slopes and try a truly unique Canadian activity then look no further – ice fishing is a fun and relaxing experience.
Rates:
- One Adult: $219
- Groups Up to Four: $149/person
- Child (under 16): $119
What to Bring on a Tour
While getting ready for your Whistler fishing trip, be sure to dress for the weather with warm layers underneath that you can shed as the day goes on. Tours do not provide food or drinks, so bring water to stay hydrated and lots of snacks.
Most importantly, all anglers aged sixteen and up require a BC freshwater fishing license which will need to be purchased and printed off ahead of your tour. Please note that all participants on the tour must be a minimum of ten years old and weigh less than three hundred pounds (to fit into the waders).
Where to Find Fly Fishing Gear
Know before you go, or get a guide to show you how.
The Sea to Sky (Squamish to Pemberton) community may be small, but is equipped with fantastic local shops for fly fishing gear. Whether you forgot something or if you’re looking to get into the sport of fly fishing, the below shops are well-stocked and will get you out on the water.
- Spud Valley Sporting Goods
Located in Pemberton, Spud Valley Sporting Goods has everything you need for an outdoor adventure, including fly fishing. They have the largest inventory of fly fishing gear and apparel in the Sea to Sky corridor.
Their staff regularly fish the local waters and the shop sells only equipment they would want to use themselves as they trust the performance and durability. View their local map for a list of their staff’s favourite fishing spots or stop by the store for more information.
- Whistler’s Home Hardware
In Function Junction south of the main Whistler Village, Home Hardware is part of a chain of stores that sells everything from dish soap to building tools. In the mix is fishing gear, so if you’re in a pinch and need fishing lines, lures, nets, and other miscellaneous fishing items Home Hardware could do the trick.
- Squamish Fly Shop
Located minutes from the Squamish River, the Squamish Fly Shop is a great local spot to get geared up for all things fly fishing. They have the local fly patterns and offer sound advice, exceptional service, and expert instruction. They stock great rods and have a good selection of tying materials suited to the area. They also have a fly fishing school, offer tours, and run guided expeditions to faraway fly fishing destinations.
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Whistler is an excellent destination for fly fishers, or those looking to get into the sport. Scenic and easily accessible lakes and rivers make it easy to spend more time on the water than driving to it, and is teeming with trout. Whether you have your own gear for fly fishing Whistler or are taking a tour with a local outfitters, you’re guaranteed good times no matter the weather on the water with a rod in hand.