Only fifty kilometers north of Vancouver, British Columbia, is the Squamish River System. The Squamish River stream is fed by large glaciers and is home to late running winter steelhead and other salmon such as Chinook, Coho, Chum, and Pinks. There is also a strong population of Dolly Varden's, Cutthroat Trout and Rainbow Trout.
Drifting the river in a raft is a great way to enjoy the full beauty of the Squamish River. This river is a rugged and beautiful place. Spectacular panoramic views, created by a glacier millions of years ago, take you on a memorable journey of what is a lush rain forest lined with rugged glaciated mountain peaks today. On one boating adventure you will experience plenty of wildlife, breathtaking waterfalls, and snowcapped mountains.
The Squamish River is fed by four main tributaries; the Elaho, Mamquam, Ashlu and Cheakamus. The main fishing in the Squamish River is Chum Salmon who start appearing in mid October and peak by mid to late November. There is also a decent Coho fishery in October and early November.
Popular spots to target these fish are at the mouths of the main tributaries. Expect crowds – on a weekend in November expect 50-100 anglers below the mouth of the Mamquam!
The Squamish River was once a great winter steelhead river; habitat degradation due to logging operations has affected rearing habitat. Furthermore, run of the river projects that are in the works today will further impact sea-run fish populations. There is still a viable steelhead population and those anglers that put in the effort may be rewarded with large, wild steelhead in the Spring months.
