Big Fish Lake, British Columbia: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  The Regional District of East Kootenay end of British Columbia holds Big Fish Lake. It stands 1,117 metres above sea level. Around 22 hectares of surface means several distinct areas to work. With about 2.1 km of edge, you can try several depths in one session. The closest town, Radium Hot Springs, is 29 km away. Invermere is 39 km and Golden 70 km. The nearest edge is a long way off, so local rules apply throughout.

• Where to Fish on Big Fish Lake

  No depth figure appears in our records, so the bank has to tell you. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. Records held for Regional District of East Kootenay cover rainbow trout, mountain whitefish and sockeye salmon. Protected fish appear in the records for this area, so treat the list as information, not an invitation. At Big Fish Lake light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate normals give 15°C for July and -10°C for January. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. Hard cover is dependable here; it goes around mid April. Averages place the thaw at mid April and the freeze at mid November. Just after the ice goes and just before it returns, the fishing lifts. It sets the rhythm of the year at Big Fish Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  No public source sets out the position on this bank. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. A platform or pier sits within 270 m. You can camp about 260 m away, going by the mapping. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Failing this one, try Botts Lake, 2.1 km away. Check the position at Big Fish Lake before loading the car.