Set among the rugged mountains of the Thompson region, Hyas Lake offers excellent fishing, with a deep water hole and extensive shoal areas. These are prime trout waters, and Hyas Lake can reward trout fishers with beauties up to five pounds. Myron Crown from Salmon Arm GM and longtime Thompson angler describes the lake as one of his favourites for fly fishing. Early in the season, he likes to fish the lake with chironomids, which can be productive right up to the end of June.

But Crown says mark your calendars for the first day of summer, as this is when some spectacular dry fly fishing begins. Tom Thumbs and Mikaluk sedge patterns are his preferred choices at this time.

"Pay attention to the structure," he adds, as this lake has complex shoals. “[This] is where the fish hang out.” Before joining Salmon Arm GM, Myron Crown owned a fly shop in Salmon Arm and has a wealth of experience fishing the lakes of the Thompson. When you want to match the hatch with a perfect vehicle, take to Myron for more hot tips.

Bloodworms, chironomids and shrimp are all abundant in Hyas Lake, as well as leeches and damselflies. As well, there is said to be a good waterboatman hatch later in the summer. The varied insect population makes it easy to experiment with your fly patterns and techniques. Crown says green has always been a good colour for him in this lake.

Nearby Hadlow Lake offers good fishing as well. Although shallow, there is abundant insect life and good habitat to sustain a decent fishery.

LAKE ACCESS

The Hyas Lake Recreation Site can be accessed off Highway 1 just north of Kamloops. Travel up Paul Lake Road past Pinantan Lake to the junction of Hyas Lake Road and Pritchard Road. Turn onto Hyas Lake Road and follow until arriving at the recreation site. If in doubt, follow Hyas Lake Resort signs. Once at the recreation site, be aware of, and respect the use of, a signed parking area for Hyas Lake cabin owners.