The area north of Prince George offers some of the Omineca Region’s finest fishing. Many of the lakes there are a little off the beaten path, and well worth the trip.

Firth Lake is a perfect example of these fabulous fishing lakes. Anglers enjoy fishing in Firth Lake for the large rainbow trout.

Local author and angler Brian Smith is enthusiastic about Firth Lake, especially because of its underwater structure. He will work the ledges of the drop offs, and cast to deep water or along the ledges.

Some of the best of these zones can be found in the north end. The channel leading to Hourston Lake can be a good place to start, and the shoals and islands nearby can be productive. Smith says that the northwest corner is some of the best insect habitat, and thus a good trout area. “There is a graduated shelf, and a small inlet bay that is prime caddis, dragonfly and damsel environment. These insects love flats and shelves that contain lush weed growth and less than four metres of water.”

Firth Lake also offers good ice fishing.

Take a look for Brian Smith’s two books, Seasons of a Fly Fisher, and Fly Fishing BC’s Interior, both available at local book stores. Smith is also a regular contributor to Northward magazine, which can be found at northward.ca.

LAKE ACCESS

Travel to this lake requires four wheel drive, as there is a steep hill leading to the lake that can leave a two-wheel drive stranded. Even with a sturdy vehicle, the access can be tricky.

From Prince George, travel north along Highway 97 for about 110 km. On the right side of the highway (east) you will pass the Firth Lake Road, but do not turn here as it takes you to a different lake. Continue a few more kilometres, past the rest stop, to the 42 Mile Road. Turn right (east) and follow for about five kilometres, past the substation, left at the communication building, and down a steep hill to Firth Lake. There is a forestry campsite at Firth Lake, with five vehicle units and a cartop boat launch.