Words by Steve Fennell
Considered one of the top destinations in Western Canada, the Shuswap is a scenic, exciting region where the boating opportunities are plentiful and the fishing second to none. Any angler will tell you that fishing is often a science; so understanding the species here will pay off in spades for all the action that awaits you.
“What makes Shuswap Lake popular among anglers is its all wild with no fish stocking programs to limit genetic diversity,” says Jason Bellows, owner of Bucktail Adventures guide services and Westside Stores in Salmon Arm. “The species are unique and can’t be found anywhere else in the world. It’s also large and deep with clean water.”
As both expert and novice anglers visit Shuswap Lake every year, before heading out, it’s advisable to learn provincial regulations, be aware of specific target species, and know weather patterns, which varies season to season.
1 of 3
Sarah Bellows
2 of 3
Jason Bellows
3 of 3
Sarah Bellows
Basic Regulations at a Glance
Whether you occasionally wet a line or are a serious die-hard, fishing Shuswap Lake begins with knowing the provincial fishing regulations. It’s pretty much a given that a fishing licence is required and if you need one, they can be purchased online at http://www.fishing.gov.bc.ca/ or from local vendors.
Of most importance on Shuswap Lake, is your basic licence must be validated with a conservation surcharge stamp if you wish to keep lake trout (char) or rainbow trout. To retain your catch, fish must meet the size limit of 50 cm for rainbow trout and 60 cm for char. This is also limited to one per day and only five a year. Plus, you must record your retention on the back of the licence. (For more details visit http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish/licences/surcharge.html).
If you are from out-of-province, unfamiliar with the BC fishing regulations, or new to fishing altogether, here are a few to follow. According to the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations – Fish and wildlife Branch, it’s unlawful on Shuswap Lake to:
- Use barbed hooks or hooks with more than one point
- Live bait
- Use more than two fishing lines if you are the sole person in a boat
- Target steelhead, salmon, or sturgeon.
- Keep rainbow trout under 50 cm or lake trout under 60 cm
What and Where to Fish
A boat is recommended to fish Shuswap Lake as access to shore fishing is limited. Yet, some options would be fishing from the docks on Mabel Lake (for its rainbow trout only) or popular White Lake.
While you don’t have to use a downrigger to be successful, it’s suggested – between June and August – to run your presentation from 12 m (40 ft) to 30 m (100 ft) for the larger species. If downrigging is not an option, casual weekend anglers can find action with kokanee or smaller trout at surface depths of 6 m (20 ft) to 12 m (40 ft).
“Shuswap is big lake fishing,” says Bellows. “It’s a challenge at times but most days in the summer are very active. It’s not really where you fish on the lake, but it’s knowing the depths to fish on the lake.”
Additionally, as the use of live bait is prohibited, Bellows says Apex trolling lures and Fishinator Plugs are popular in the summer, while its also known for anglers to use four-inch, flat orange Apex, Polar Bear buck tails, or better yet, locally tied bucktails designed for the lake.
“The colour and sizes of lures change throughout the year as the food source changes,” says Bellows. “There’s not the structure like some inland lakes so it’s also all about finding the best water temperature and depth with a fish finder.”
Spanning 85 km (55 mi) in length, Shuswap Lake is vast. If you’re new to area, many resort to the experts at retail tackle shops or even hire a guide to get some great insight on technique, locations, and tips. Nonetheless, fishing here is a great experience and the methods are simple: adhere to the regulations and conduct proper research before your visit for the best results and overall enjoyment.
“People need to value these resources as they have the privilege of fishing a lake for species you can’t get anywhere else in the world,” says Bellows. “Come here, enjoy it and respect it.”
For more information visit the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations – Fish and wildlife Branch http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/ and for more specific details visit www.www.westsidestores.ca or www.bucktailadventures.com for guiding services.