Fishing in Harrison Bay

By Tony Nootebos - Jul 12, 2003

Fishing in Harrison Hot Springs.

Harrison Hot Springs is truly a sport fishermen's paradise! Located in the heart of the Fraser valley Harrison lake drains into the Harrison river where 8 miles down stream it connects to the mighty Fraser river. The salmon returns on the Fraser and Harrison rivers have never been better, and located only 50km from salt water the fish are fresh and full of life. The Sturgeon population is growing rapidly , largely due to the positive effects of a catch and release only fishery imposed in 1994.

Sturgeon can live up to 200 years old, and can reach lengths of over 14 feet making them one of the most unique sport fish left in the world today . These fresh water dinosaurs are a fantastic challenge for trophy seeking anglers often jumping several times and taking long reel screaming runs before tiring for a quick photo session and healthy release.

With 2003 being an odd numbered year we are expecting over 20 million Pink salmon to return this fall! These great fighters mixed in with the large Sockeye, Coho, Chum, and Chinook salmon expected to return from June through November should make for the best salmon opportunities ever. Pink salmon are not considered great table fare but they are a great sport fish providing anglers young and old with an opportunity to hook large numbers of fish in a single outing.

One of the most popular fisheries in the Harrison area is the Sockeye salmon run that begins in mid July and continues well into September. The Fraser and Harrison rivers come alive with these hard fighting silver bullets during this time and are considered the best table fare of the pacific salmon.

The Chinook (king) salmon travel through the Fraser river all year but peak June through October. Chinook salmon are the largest of the pacific salmon often reaching weights of 40lbs or better and are known as the tackle busters of the sport fishing industry. These fish are definitely the most powerful salmon you will encounter on the Fraser system! Hang on!!

Coho salmon start entering the Fraser and Harrison rivers in early September and return right through December. Although they average 8lbs the can obtain weights of up to 18lbs and provide a good challenge on light spinning tackle or fly gear depending on your preferred method.

Fishermen with young families may wish to try the numerous lakes in the Harrison area which offer an opportunity to fish for both Cutthroat and Rainbow trout. Deer, Hicks, and Trout lakes in Sasquatch Provincial park are regularly stocked and fish can be caught on both fly and spinning gear. You can fish bait from the shore, troll lures with a small car topper boat or fly fish from a belly boat the choice is yours. (There are motor/boat restrictions on these lakes.)

Anglers looking to go out on there own should check with local outdoor shops for fishing regulations and boating restrictions before heading out.

Another gem of the Fraser valley is the World class trout fishing in the area. Harrison River has been a favorite among fly fishers for years providing some of the best Cutthroat trout found anywhere in the lower mainland. There are some great remote river possibilities as well for trout and char fishing, you may want to consider hiring a local guide for this adventure as the waters are extreme and knowledge of the river is the only way to ensure a quality and safe experience.

Within only minutes of Harrison you can catch a trout on a fly rod, a salmon on some drift gear or a prehistoric white sturgeon on 100lb test power pro line, the Harrison area offers it all! Harrison Hot Springs is truly a world class sport fishing destination located only 1.5 hours from Vancouver or 3 hours from Seattle. Guests from all over come to experience the beautiful scenery, great 12 month fishing opportunities on calm waters, and of course the relaxed and friendly people of British Columbia's Fraser Valley!

Come visit us soon!

Tight lines

Tony Nootebos @ www.harrisonbay.com

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