Big Lake, Cariboo region, BC

Big Lake, Cariboo region, BC

Big Lake is located in the Central Cariboo region of British Columbia, east of the City of Williams Lake. At 150 Mile House, 25 km (15.5 mi) south of Williams Lake on BC Hwy 97, turn east onto the Horsefly Road. A couple of miles later, turn left onto the Likely Road. Big Lake is located on the Likely Road about 40 km (25 mi) from 150 Mile House.

Several species of fish reside in Big Lake, including rainbow trout, burbot, lake trout (char) and kokanee. In 2016, 60,000 kokanee were released into Big Lake from the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC’s fish stocking program.

Trolling and lure fishing are the most common techniques for Big Lake, though fly fishers do well too. Gang trolls or Wedding Rings produce well. Fly fishers may want to try a green Doc Spratley, a black Woolly Bugger with a little bit of gold ribbing on it, or a leech pattern in black with red and olive colours.

Big Lake Community Association has been holding an annual fishing derby in June for more than 20 years. Any profits from the derby go towards helping the community. Derby organizers discourage anglers from targeting lake trout. To help minimize the impact on the lake trout fishery, the derby awards a prize for largest rainbow trout.

There is a small campsite on the north side of the lake. There is also public lake access on the south side.

Anglers note - there is a lake trout quota on Big Lake. Please consult the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations for information before heading out.

LAKE ACCESS:

Big Lake is northeast of Williams Lake. From Williams Lake, follow Highway 97 south to 150 Mile House and turn left (east) onto Horsefly Road. Follow this road for about five kilometres to Likely Road on the left (north). Continue along Likely Road for about 30 kilometres to Big Lake. There are well-marked signs pointing the way to the community hall. "