Northern pike

Kootenay Lake (North Arm) Kootenay Lake is long, large and deep, one of the largest lakes in the province. At over 100 kilometres long Kootenay Lake offers fabulous fishing in a stunning setting, with many more aquatic and land activities to round out your trip there. Kerry Reed, local guide and owner of Reel Adventures Fishing Charters, knows and loves Kootenay Lake, and shares his knowledge with our readers: Fishing on Beautiful Kootenay Lake (by Reel Adventures Fishing Charters) The North arm of Kootenay Lake extends from Balfour up to the very end of the lake at Argenta. The deepest area is around 450’ and shallowing off in the far north to around 300’. Fishing can be very good on the North arm of the lake, especially in the spring, although these fish are constantly moving, so you never know. Gerrard Rainbows up to 35 Lbs have been caught in Kootenay Lake, which keeps anglers from all over the world coming back for that chance of a fish of a lifetime. More common are Rainbows between 5 lbs. – 15 lbs. Also, Bull Trout have been caught up to 29 lbs., with the average Bulls ranging between 5 lbs. – 12 lbs. Favourite lures vary with the weather conditions and time of year. When fishing the far North arm, I prefer using plugs or Apex lures. Bull Trout seem to be more abundant in the North arm and they seem to prefer these lures. As for Rainbows, our favorites are bucktail flies on the surface when it is breezy. Or plugs and Apex lures when it is calmer. Also, Kokanee salmon are a popular fish for eating. While not the biggest in size, they are definitely the best for eating. Trolling with small gang trolls and small spinners seem to work best for these tasty treats. Please check regulations frequently, as regulations are subject to change. Along with the Recreation Sites noted on the map, there are several other campsites and creeks. Schroeder Creek, Lost Ledge, Davis Creek, Fry Point and Campbell Bay are just a few of the others worth noting. Please visit local tourism information centres to get directions and information. Always consult the B.C. Freshwater Fishing Regulations before heading out. Kootenay Lake (South Arm) Fishing the South arm (or main stem, as it is also known), can be similar to the North. Kerry Reed, of Reel Fishing Adventures, says, “there seems to be more of a mix of Rainbows and Bull trout throughout this middle section of the lake. Again, the same techniques for fishing can be applied as in the North.” He continues, “remember the rule of thumb for colors: Dark colors on dark days and light colors on light days. This will help increase some odds. But then again, sometimes there is no rhyme or reason. So you just need to be out there.” Reed notes that trolling speed is also an important factor, and it depends on the weather and the season. “Spring and fall water temperatures seem to bring more aggressive fish. So a faster troll can be good. However, in the heat of the summer or the dead cold of winter, slower trolling seems to produce more. You just have to experiment.” LAKE ACCESS Drewry Point Provincial Park lies along the western shore of Kootenay Lake. The small, three-site, user-maintained park is accessible only by boat. Located 36 km south of Balfour, this park provides protected moorage in both the north and south bays, making it easy to get out of the wind. Kootenay Lake Provincial Park has several different sites along the west shores of Kootenay Lake. Each site has its own unique amenities. Check the B.C. Parks website for more information. B.C. Parks notes that Pilot Bay Provincial Park, on the eastern shores of Kootenay Lake, is the safest harbour on Kootenay Lake. Here, boaters often take shelter during summer storms when they are caught on the lake. As a bonus, some of the best fishing for trophy trout is nearby. Primarily marine accessed, the park can be reached by road. Lockhart Beach Provincial Park is the easiest park on the south arm to access, providing 18 sites and basic amenities. Along with provincial parks, there are several recreation sites along the north portion of Kootenay Lake. Garland Bay, Bernard Beaches, Pebble Beach and Fletcher Creek are all offer camping and pit toilets. Some of these sites charge fees. Please keep in mind that many sites are first come, first served, and can be very busy, particularly in the summer.

Family fun.. This brother and sister show off their catch

Double fisting. Kokanee action on the west arm.

Never too young to start. Here's a beauty Kokanee the young lad caught. I think he's hooked.