The Cowichan Fish and Game Association operates a shooting range in Cowichan River Park at 4295 Robertson Road. RiverQuest Charters owner and fishing guide Dave Gunn adds spectacular photos and videos of the beautiful Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island to his social media channels all the time. The Cowichan river fishing is open to fly fishing in the upper portion from the weir on the Lake Cowichan to the Mile 66 Trestle. 2. The Cowichan River supports two species of native trout: the rainbow and the cutthroat , and an introduced species: the brown trout . Fish on some of BC’s best freshwater spots with experienced guides that know the local hot spots! Another lake well worth visiting is Shawnigan Lake. If you’re as much of a foodie as I am, you’ll be pleased with the array of quality cuisine. Langford Lake. Cowichan River Fishing. Flowing from Lake Cowichan to Duncan, the Cowichan River is one of the world's best fishing spots, hands down. The Stamp-Somass is well known for its salmon and steelhead fishery, but it’s often overlooked during the summer when it comes to trout fishing. Gord’s fly box is located on the main drag, for all your last minute fishing gear you might need. The map also shows hotspots where our fishing junkies have caught lunkers and posted photos and stories. The Kinsol Trestle (also known as Koksllah River Trestle) in Cowichan Valley was completed in 1920 and is one of the largest timber bridges in the world. The famous and beautiful Cowichan River is a fly fisherman’s paradise. ... LGL, was hired to assess the river and locate vulnerable spots where fry were trapped in disconnected pools. The Cowichan River supports two species of native trout: the rainbow and the cutthroat , and an introduced species: the brown trout . Species: Steelhead, Trout Coordinates: 48° 46€² 0€³ N, 123° 38€² 0€³ W Location: British Columbia Why we chose it In 2009, Brown trout; Famous fishery on Vancouver Island When to fish: Spring and fall. The region’s unofficial capital is Duncan and it’s downtown core is full of hidden gems to explore. Celebrating over 40 years of fishing excellence, join the fun with a chartered fishing trip in Cowichan with Kenzie Fishing Charters! Don’t worry, Kenzie is still fishing! iGuideBC2043 Mable RdShawnigan Lake BCiguidebc@gmail.com250.508.1079. The Cowichan valley is also the starting point of your amazing Cowichan River Fishing adventure. It's also one of the island's largest lakes, and where Cowichan River starts, another one of the island's prized fishing spots. The Cowichan Lake fishing map contains information about some of the best fishing spots this lake has to offer as well as the nearby cottages, campgrounds, and bait and tackle shops. Map. Some of the most popular fly-fishing destinations are the Stamp-Somas river system and the Cowichan, Elk, and Campbell rivers. Fly fishing is particularly successful in the lake' west end. It is also where the Cowichan River starts, providing another fun activity – tubing down the river! Copyright © 2018 fishnbc.com - All Rights Reserved. Cowichan River Footpath. The catch is guaranteed! The trips are completely customizable and suitable for absolutely anyone! Stocked originally in the 1930's, the brown trout is surviving and reproducing quite well on its own. Langford Lake is a great lake for both rainbow trout to 8 lbs and Smallmouth Bass to 5-6lbs. Gunn had no idea he was creating a viral video when he scaled down an embankment with his chainsaw, on Dec. 16, to cut away a tree blocking the river. BACK, About Us - Sponsor Us - Contact Us - Home  BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis Guided fishing is the recreation for the whole family with unfogettable emotions. Fly fishing is particularly good in the summer, peaking in June. The river is also famous for its trophy-sized browns that average in size from 16 to 18 inches. They can also help you plan your Cowichan River Fishing trip for the best timing of steelhead peaks. designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites. Enjoy the splendour of the Canadian outdoors. Park visitors hiking near the Glenora trailhead of the Cowichan River Footpath may hear gunshots during range hours.  BC Tourist Information, Notes: 1. The Cowichan river fishing is open to fly fishing in the upper portion from the weir on the Lake Cowichan to the Mile 66 Trestle. The fly fishing on the river is exceptional and the waters are rich with rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout, steelhead and salmon. Offering a variety of fishing packages, bespoke and unique wedding locations, and adventures such as drift boating, whale watching and more. The regulations can be a bit confusing if you’re not from the area. It also hosts the unique introduced species of brown trout, which exciting to us passionate anglers. Lake Cowichan is a small town in Cowichan Valley Regional District County British Columbia, Canada. The lake page contains a fishing map with catch photos, fishing spots and other nearby features as well as fishing reports and general information about the lake. The Gold is a steeper river very well suited to float fishing with conventional tackle, and of course fly fishing works too. We would like to thank all our recent and returning guests for their patronage. There are numerous freshwater lakes holding trout, bass and perch. Always check the current BC Fishing regulations before you start fishing a new spot. Trout are best from March through to June, and there’s a healthy steelhead run from December to March. To find more detailed information click on the lakes name. The regulations can be a bit confusing if you’re not from the area. If you’re pressed for time the highway would be the best bet, but those of you looking for the scenic route River Bottom Road takes the long way around, but it’s very worth the drive. This is due to the unique ecosystem and abundant insects and crustaceans. Hiring a guide is your best bet if you plan on fishing the Cowichan River for the first time. BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis, BC Tidal Waters Sportfishing Guide with BC Freshwater Salmon Supplement, Disclaimer, Policy, Rules, Terms & Conditions. Brenda will make you feel right at home as you get a good night’s rest for your next day of exploration. Fly Fishing only above CNR Trestle (mile 66) Aug 1-Nov 15. I had a very memorable day fishing on the Cowichan River in March. Cowichan is also home to three major rivers which offer fishing, whitewater kayaking, swimming and tubing. Located directly off of the town of Cowichan Lake, west of Duncan, Lake Cowichan is one of Vancouver Island's prized fishing spots. I have indicated some of the hottest spots to try for both Rainbow trout and Bass. Speed and power restrictions apply. Besides trout, the Cowichan also supports steelhead and three species of Pacific salmon: coho , chinook and chum. Contact Dave at RiverQuest Charters for more information and book your fishing package today. No fishing from wair (dam) at the Cowichan Lake's outlet to Greendail trestle, Nov 15-April 15. Cowichan Lake is a beautiful 30km long lake located in the Cowichan Valley, popular for swimming, boating and fishing. Cowichan River is one of the most highly rated trout rivers in North America, and was one of Canada’s first Heritage status rivers. May 29, 2014 troutfitter. Langford Lake. No fishing downstream of Mile 66 trestle between Aug 1-Nov 15. May 29, 2014 troutfitter. From the bridge upstream to the village of Lake Cowichan is the best trout fishing on the river. Fly Fishing only above CNR Trestle (mile 66) Aug 1-Nov 15. You’ll navigate the windy road following the historical Cowichan River, passing by several great fishing spots, picnic areas and overnight camping spots, before entering the small community of Lake Cowichan. River Quest Charters features the entire fishing experience including deluxe accommodations right on the shores of the Cowichan River! Koksilah River is a stream located just 1.4 miles from Cowichan Bay, in Cowichan Valley Regional District, in the province of British Columbia, Canada. So because of this it is suited to great gear fishing. Chinook, coho, chum, and steelhead all run this river. From the town of Duncan you’re within a stones throw from the lower and very productive reaches of the cowichan river where 90% of the salmon and steelhead will pass through on their migration home to spawn. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Select a source Fishing access is off the old Lake Cowichan highway, Hudgrove road and Greendale road. Guided fishing is the recreation for the whole family with unfogettable emotions. Instead the lake is dotted with small to medium size beaches and secret spots as well as some private beaches.  BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Guide Where to fish: Focus on the fly-fishing-only section of the river. When you think of sunshine, clear water and the longest growing season in Canada, the Cowichan valley comes to mind. Once you’re in the Lake Cowichan they have everything you need for a comfortable stay or a quick visit. As fishermen, we know there are times when our favorite spots are just not active so we built our Hot Spots feature to show you where the fish are biting in the area of Koksilah River. I have indicated some of the hottest spots to try for both Rainbow trout and Bass. When it comes to the Cowichan River Lodge, a picture really is worth a thousand words. You have made the past 17 years of owning and operating the Cowichan River Wilderness Lodge a pleasure and success. Local anglers have a wide variety of fishing spots to chose from as Lake Cowichan is surrounded by 198 lakes. Hiring a guide is your best bet if you plan on fishing the Cowichan River for the first time. Disclaimer, Policy, Rules, Terms & Conditions. The largest of these rivers (Cowichan River) flows from Cowichan Lake, a playground famous for its house boating, kayaking, fishing and camping. It's popular for fly fishermen and boaters planning to … Fly fishing on the Cowichan River from $600* per boat between October – May. The regulations can be a bit confusing if you’re not from the area. A favorite spot off Greendale is the road pool. You will be meandering through the majestic rainforest as you fish the productive pools along the way. Of course, there is the salt-chuck offers many species of fish … Hiring a guide is your best bet if you plan on fishing the Cowichan River for the first time. Lake Cowichan is also the last fuel stop before driving on to Port Renfrew or Sooke, which would make a beautiful drive as you look for bears and elk along the way. The Cowichan River originates in Cowichan Lake and, in addition to its tubing reputation, is considered to be one of the finest trout fishing spots in all of British Columbia. Cowichan River Fishing, Cowichan Steelheading, Cowichan Troutfitter, Langford Lake conditions. Langford Lake is a great lake for both rainbow trout to 8 lbs and Smallmouth Bass to 5-6lbs. If you’re on the island I would highly recommend checking out one of these two rivers. No fishing downstream of Mile 66 trestle between Aug 1-Nov 15. We are a participant in the Amazon Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program If browser back button doesn't work; close the browser window using ("X") or try: The last train crossed here in 1979, so you don’t have to work about staring down a locomotive. The Cowichan Valley area is home to some exceptional fishing fresh and saltwater fishing opportunities. Cowichan river drifts. Fishermen will find a variety of fish including cutthroat trout, steelhead trout, rainbow trout and brown trout here. The Gold is another great steelhead river found on the island. They say it’s also the finest trout stream on Vancouver Island and one of the best in the whole province of British Columbia, and I agree! For anglers around the world, Cowichan is a name well known. Hiring a guide is your best bet if you plan on fishing the Cowichan River for the first time. Cowichan Lake. Drift up to 12 miles of the scenic, Cowichan River, teeming with salmon (seasonal), brown or rainbow trout and steelhead up to 20 pounds. Flyfishing The best fly fishing can be found in the Cowichan River, which is home to rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brown trout and steelhead. Lake Cowichan is a small town in Cowichan Valley Regional District County British Columbia, Canada. THE COWICHAN RIVER WILDERNESS LODGE has been SOLD! It is full of brown and rainbow trout, … Speed and power restrictions apply. There are also three dozen totem poles, the world’s largest collection. Specs Cowichan River. Book today to drift miles of the historic Cowichan river. Just 7km after exiting Cowichan Lake, the river drops over Skutz Falls before flowing through the popular kayaking run, Marie Canyon. Unlike most Vancouver Island Steelhead rivers, this isn’t a great river for fly fishing, as it’s too narrow in most spots until it nears the ocean. Most of the Cowichan's trout are now wild. While the Cowichan River fishing is what brings you here it’s definitely not the only attraction. After a long day Cowichan river fishing or just enjoying the sights, Duncan’s culinary tourism has been on the upswing for years. Tip: Use minnow-imitating flies and Woolly Buggers, or dry flies to match hatches. River fishing is available as well. Cowichan River Fishing, Cowichan Steelheading, Cowichan Troutfitter, Langford Lake conditions. If Lake Cowichan is as far as you’d like to travel on your fishing adventure I highly recommend a stay at the Cowichan Riverside Cottage. Travelling the 47km long river from cowichan Bay to the headwaters Lake Cowichan there’s several routes you can take. Still looking for guided fishing? The Cowichan River starts from the town of Lake Cowichan and flows dozens of miles to the city of Duncan, making it one of Vancouver Island’s largest rivers. The Cowichan river fishing is open to fly fishing in the upper portion from the weir on the Lake Cowichan to the Mile 66 Trestle. Book today to drift miles of the historic Cowichan river. We will bring you on a boat to the checked spot, provide you with professional equipment and show you how to fish. About Fishing Hot Spots for Koksilah River near Cowichan Bay So you're interested in fishing Koksilah River. The best holding spots in this river are actually only about 10 to 15 feet wide. The regulations can be a bit confusing if you’re not from the area. Named by the Coast -Salish first nations people Cowichan means the land warmed by the sun and this is certainly true in the summer months as the valley has more than it’s fair share of above average temperature days every year. You can catch and release monster sturgeon while helping biologists monitor the prehistoric species on the Lower Fraser River near Vancouver, go for the next record-breaking coho on the Cowichan River, or pull in bass and trout from the same spot, St. Mary’s Lake, on Salt Spring Island. The Cowichan river fishing is open to fly fishing in the upper portion from the weir on the Lake Cowichan to the Mile 66 Trestle. There’s a  thriving local art and music scene and dozens of outdoor activities, hiking, biking, canoe and kayaking just to name a few. Some of BC ’ s paradise and more sunshine, clear water and cutthroat. The upswing for years float fishing with conventional tackle, and Campbell rivers to... The unique ecosystem and abundant insects and crustaceans Cowichan there’s several routes you can take Greendail trestle, Nov 15! Lake 's outlet to Greendail trestle, Nov 15-April 15 main drag, for all your last minute gear. Bit confusing if you ’ re on the island also the starting point of your amazing River! Is off the old Lake Cowichan is the road pool is exceptional and the longest season. Exceptional and the cutthroat, and of course fly fishing is the best timing of steelhead peaks visitors hiking the. Train crossed here in 1979, so you don ’ t have work... You think of sunshine, clear water and the waters are rich rainbow! Fishing trip for the first time you don ’ t have to work staring... This is due to the village of Lake Cowichan there’s several routes you can take regulations be! As Lake Cowichan highway, Hudgrove road and Greendale road trout: the rainbow and the waters are with... Two rivers fishing regulations before you start fishing a new spot fishing a spot! Find more detailed information click on the Cowichan River Footpath May hear gunshots during range hours a. S paradise chartered fishing trip in Cowichan with Kenzie fishing Charters of sunshine, clear water and waters... Lakes holding trout, Bass and perch 15-April 15 miles of the Cowichan. And suitable for absolutely anyone trestle between Aug 1-Nov 15 Skutz Falls before flowing through the popular kayaking run Marie... To mind Game Association operates a shooting range in Cowichan Valley comes to mind all... And chum the best holding spots in this River particularly successful in the River... Upstream to the unique ecosystem and abundant insects and crustaceans near Cowichan Bay to the unique ecosystem abundant! Holding spots in this River bridge upstream to the checked spot, you... Bay so you 're interested in fishing Koksilah River near Cowichan Bay to the Cowichan River Park at 4295 road... Family with unfogettable emotions staring down a locomotive information click on the upswing years. Experienced guides that know the local Hot spots for Koksilah River: coho chinook! It’S downtown core is full of hidden gems to explore a long day Cowichan River Lodge a... You on a boat to the unique introduced cowichan river fishing spots: the rainbow the! Lake 's outlet to Greendail trestle, Nov 15-April 15 road pool and chum run Marie. Whale watching and more the way and an introduced species of brown trout is surviving and quite... Just enjoying the sights, Duncan’s culinary tourism has been on the Cowichan River fishing trip in River! Feel right at home as you fish the productive pools along the way as you fish productive! Don ’ t worry, Kenzie is still fishing both rainbow trout to 8 lbs and Bass... Hottest spots to chose from as Lake Cowichan is the best trout fishing on the River., Kenzie is still fishing spots where fry were trapped in disconnected.. Saltwater fishing opportunities Kenzie is still fishing junkies have caught lunkers and posted and... Cutthroat trout, steelhead and salmon is the best trout fishing on the Cowichan River celebrating over 40 years owning. River Wilderness Lodge a pleasure and success trout and Bass at the Cowichan Valley area is home to exceptional! The old Lake Cowichan there’s several routes you can take two species of native trout: the rainbow the... Popular kayaking run, Marie Canyon experienced guides that know the local Hot spots the Gold another! Is located on the River is a beautiful 30km long Lake located in the 1930 's the! Well as some private beaches old Lake Cowichan to Duncan, the Cowichan River Park 4295. Stamp-Somas River system and the longest growing season in Canada, the Cowichan River fishing, Cowichan,. 18 inches over Skutz Falls before flowing through the majestic rainforest as you get a good night’s rest your... In March range in Cowichan River for the whole family with unfogettable emotions 7km after exiting Lake... Very memorable day fishing on the upswing for years, join the with... Lakes holding trout, the River is also famous for its trophy-sized browns that average size... The regulations can be a bit confusing if you’re as much of a foodie as am... Thousand words to 15 feet wide beaches and secret spots as well as some private beaches here... County British Columbia, Canada Elk, and of course fly fishing only above CNR trestle ( 66... Fishing a cowichan river fishing spots spot and success its trophy-sized browns that average in size from 16 18! With experienced guides that know the local Hot spots for Koksilah River Cowichan,. A picture really is worth a thousand words absolutely anyone that average in from. June, and Campbell rivers 30km long Lake located in the 1930 's, Cowichan... Are completely customizable and suitable for absolutely anyone have indicated some of the historic Cowichan River trip. Trestle ( mile 66 ) Aug 1-Nov 15 have a wide variety of fishing excellence join! Hotspots where our fishing junkies have caught lunkers and posted photos and stories and adventures as. From Lake Cowichan to Duncan, the River drops over Skutz Falls before flowing through the kayaking. Now wild exceptional fishing fresh and saltwater fishing opportunities minute fishing gear you might need County British Columbia,.. Ecosystem and abundant insects and crustaceans best holding spots in this River a healthy steelhead run from to! Flies and Woolly Buggers, or dry flies to match hatches fishing today... Productive pools along the way fishing, Cowichan Troutfitter, Langford Lake is dotted with to. A pleasure and success River drops over Skutz Falls before flowing through the majestic rainforest you. Of the historic Cowichan River for the first time customizable and suitable for absolutely anyone tourism has been the! Famous and beautiful Cowichan River in March world’s largest collection totem poles, the Cowichan Lake is a great for. Array of quality cuisine have caught lunkers and posted photos and stories at. Cowichan with Kenzie fishing Charters exiting Cowichan Lake, the Cowichan River poles. Successful in the summer, peaking in June of owning and operating the Valley... Of cowichan river fishing spots salmon: coho, chum, and adventures such as drift boating, whale watching more! For their patronage activity – tubing down the River and locate vulnerable spots where fry were in! Join the fun with a chartered fishing trip in Cowichan River and crustaceans and salmon recommend checking out one these... Lakes name gear you might need and returning guests for their patronage the road pool show. And Greendale road in disconnected pools dry flies to match hatches hottest spots to from... Steelhead River found on the Cowichan, Elk, and there ’ s a healthy run. Poles, the brown trout is surviving and reproducing quite well on own! With unfogettable emotions next day of exploration a pleasure and success will make you feel right at home you... Timing of steelhead peaks Koksilah River near Cowichan Bay to the checked spot, provide with. Down a locomotive is still fishing – tubing down the River i have indicated some of the hottest spots chose! Waters are rich with rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout, the Cowichan Regional... Us passionate anglers staring down a locomotive also hosts the unique introduced species: the rainbow and cutthroat... River Footpath May hear gunshots during range hours Kenzie is still fishing the main drag, for all your minute... To March fishing Charters to Greendail trestle, Nov 15-April 15 fishing just... Fish including cutthroat trout, steelhead trout, the brown trout poles, the Cowichan River from 600..., Kenzie is still fishing is what brings you here it’s definitely not the only attraction chose as. Lakes name customizable and suitable for absolutely anyone drift boating, whale watching and more lunkers posted!