Ocean Fishing

Fraser River Fishing: What's so Special?

By Mike Richardson 15/08/2022 3 mins read

You can enjoy a breathtaking environment and fresh salmon and trout by visiting the Fraser River. The Fraser River, which averages 12-15 inches in size, has a variety of fish species that can reach 20 inches. The Fraser River is predominantly composed of Browns. There are approximately 29% Rainbows here and 1% Brook Trout there. The diversity of these fish in this region make for a truly enjoyable fishing trip.

Yves is a great sturgeon fishing guide

If you're an experienced angler, then you probably know that the Fraser River has some of largest freshwater fish anywhere in the world. This includes the huge White Sturgeon. If you are visiting Vancouver Canada, this is the perfect spot to catch one these huge fish. But what's so special about the Fraser River? Yves has a passion for guiding anglers to the best locations to catch them.

Yves is a professional salmon fishing guide and has over 15 year experience on Fraser River. Since the Fraser River Sturgeon Conservation Society started tagging fish in 2000, Yves has tagged more fish than any other guide. He has a personal record of 344cm in length and estimates that the Fraser River Sturgeon weights between 7 and 8 hundred pounds.

Regulations

Depending on where you fish, the regulations for fraser river fishing are different. If you fish in the Headwaters to Safeway area, you must release all rainbow trout you catch. The Fraser Canyon-South area allows only two trout per person. Colorado State Fishing Regulations are required for all river fishing. The Fraser River also has private property.

To reach the Fraser River you will need to first travel from Denver by train. Amtrak has a route between Denver and Granby. The train ride is well worth the view! The Fraser River offers excellent fishing opportunities for brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. These fish are wild, and they don't feed on humans. Even during peak fishing season, they are often overlooked. The valley below will reward you with much more fish than the Fraser River.

Access

The Fraser River is the main tributary to Colorado River. It runs for 32 miles, from Berthoud Pass to Granby. The river is broad and flat with riffles and tailouts as well as deep waters where you can catch fish of up to 20 inches. You can access the river from several road turnouts, or you can hike or bike along the Fraser River Trail through Cozens Ranch Open Space. Dry flies or nymphs are the best way to fish the Fraser River. The Fraser River Fishing Brochure has access points. Respect private property located near access points for fishing.

The best time to fish the Fraser River is after late fall runoff or after spring runoff. These periods are best for big caddis and BWO. You'll also want to fish the river during spring and fall as the river is often high. You may have better luck fishing the river in fall if you use a different fly than you would expect.

Tactics

Steelhead can often be caught on a variety if lures such eggs, salmon-roe, or plastic imitations. A variety of plastic worms, including live dewworms, are effective lures. Fly fishing is another popular option. Compared to salmon, however, steelhead are harder to catch, so many anglers use artificial lures. Aside from the fact that there are fewer steelhead in Fraser River, it is more difficult than catching salmon to find them.

Neophytes shouldn't be caught up in the Fraser River. They should fish with an experienced angler that is well versed in the river. While some spots produce great numbers of fish year after year, it is crucial to adjust to the local conditions and adjust your tactics accordingly. There are many areas in the tidal Fraser section that have fish year round. As with all rivers, the Fraser is very commercial and you must adjust to local conditions to ensure success.

FAQ

What are the different types of lures you can use?

Yes, there is a wide range of lures. Some lures are designed specifically for certain species of fish. Some lures are designed to mimic insects, frogs and crayfish. Lures come in various shapes and sizes. Some lures are even designed to look like real bugs.

How far away should I stand while fishing?

The closer you are to the shore, the greater your chances of catching fish. However, it also increases the chance of getting soaked.

What kind of gear do you need for fishing?

A rod and reel, line, hooks (bait), tackle box, and snacks. A cast is essential if you want to catch fish. You also need to know how to rig a hook. Remember to be patient and wait for the right moment before you strike.

How do I clean a fish?

There are many ways to clean a salmon. The easiest way to clean a fish is to remove its head and guts. Then wash the fish thoroughly with cold water. Another option is for you to gut the fish. This involves removing the intestines as well as cleaning the inside cavity. Finally, you may ask someone to clean the fish.

What happens when I get caught illegally fishing

Your license could be suspended or revoked. Before you start fishing, it is important to be familiar with the rules.

Do you need a bobber to fish?

Yes, you do! A bobber keeps the bait safe from being taken by other fisherman when they are fishing. The bobber has two parts: the float and the line. You attach the hook and line to the lure. Once the line is out, let go of it. You should not use a Bobber as the lure can sink into the water and make it more difficult for fish to bite.

Statistics

You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
About 40 percent of all fish are freshwater species. (takemefishing.org)
To substantiate this theory, Knight attempted a systematic inquiry by considering the timing of 200 'record' catches, more than 90 percent were made during a new moon (when no moon is visible). (myfwc.com)