Learn to Fish

A Beginner’s Guide to Freshwater Fishing in BC

Contents
GUIDE 1: Rods, Reels, and Lines p. 2

GUIDE 2: Tackle and Accessories 4

GUIDE 3: Knots and Equipment Set-Up 6

GUIDE 4: Casting and Retrieving 8

GUIDE 5: Fish Identification and Basic Biology 10

GUIDE 6: Where, When, and How to Catch Fish 13

GUIDE 7: Proper Fish Handling 15

GUIDE 8: Angling Ethics 16

GUIDE 9: Freshwater Fishing Licence & Regulations 17

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 GUIDE

1 Rods, Reels, and Lines

Get off to a good start by choosing the right rod and reel combo – for you,
and for the type of fishing you plan to do.

Fishing Rods Spinning

The rod lets you cast, and its flexibility acts as a shock A spinning rod holds the reel underneath the rod, with the
absorber. The right rod will bend enough to absorb tension line guides pointing directly toward the ground. The line
from the line and stop it from breaking, but still be rigid guides start larger than on a spincasting rod, and become
enough for you to fight and land the fish. smaller closer to the tip.
A good choice for beginners is a light rod about 1.2 to two Spinning reels are a step up from spincasting reels, but
metres long (four to six feet). This is ideal for trout and still relatively inexpensive. Spinning reels use a metal bar
other small fish, lightweight, and can handle smaller tackle (called a bail) to hold the line on the reel. As the reel handle
very well. is turned, the bail also turns, winding line neatly onto the
spool.

Fishing Reels Again, see our ‘Casting and Retrieving’ guide (page 8)
to learn how to cast properly.
Fishing reels store line on a spool. Some have an adjustable
friction device known as a “drag,” which maintains tension
on the line as it’s pulled off the spool. Proper adjustment of
the drag serves two important functions when a fish runs:
first, it prevents the spool from over-spinning, releasing line reel seat
in a controlled, orderly fashion without tangling into a mess
(or “bird’s nest”); second, it provides a braking force that
line spool
slowly tires the fish without breaking the line. drag

Two basic rod and reel set-ups are spincasting handle

and spinning. It’s important to match the rod bail

with the proper reel.

Spincasting
A spincasting rod has the reel mounted on top of the
rod, with the line guides facing upwards. On a matching
spincasting reel, notice that the line is stored under a cover,
and feeds from a small hole in front. These reels are very
inexpensive and easy to cast, making them ideal for
young children.
Take a look at our ‘Casting and Retrieving’ guide (page 8)
for information on how to cast properly.

handle

cover
thumb button
line opening

drag

reel seat

2 LEARN TO FISH GUIDE

Fishing line
A good quality fishing line is essential for your angling Monofilament Line
success. You can always get solid advice at your local tackle
store, but here’s a quick guide to the three main types of
line.

Monofilament: The most common type of line, it’s typically

clear or green, but each colour is almost transparent under
water. Monofilament is a great all-purpose fishing line that
can be used anywhere.

Fluorocarbon: Primarily used for leaders, this line looks like

monofilament, but is virtually invisible underwater.

Fusion and braided lines: With these lines, the materials

are either braided or fused together to make a single strand
of line. This makes for an extremely strong line with a very
thin diameter, and very little stretch. Since these lines are
highly visible, they are generally used only as main line.

UNDERSTANDING LINE TERMS

These are some of the things you might see on line

packaging at your local fishing tackle store.

Strength
Line strength is expressed in terms of “test,” and is
measured in pounds or kilograms. The higher the test
number, the stronger the fishing line. This number will
be clearly labelled on any line you buy, and it’s important
to use the right test line for your targeted species and
fishing conditions. Most rods and reels are also labelled
with a suitable line weight or test, and following what is
recommended will help the equipment to function properly.

Visibility
This simply means how visible the fishing line is to the
angler (not the fish). The fishing line box will generally be
labelled as high visibility, low visibility, or invisible.

Size
This is the diameter of the line. It will be labelled clearly on
the box, and is measured in either thousandths of an inch or
hundredths of a millimetre.

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 GUIDE

2 Tackle and Accessories

Here’s a simple guide to the basic tackle you’ll need. Let’s work backwards, starting from
the hook. Remember that your local tackle store is a great place to ask for advice on what
works best for fishing in your area.
Hooks As your angling experience grows, you’ll learn which baits
are the best for catching each species. Some waters in B.C.
eye
Hooks come in many shapes
prohibit the use of bait. For complete definitions of bait
and sizes, each designed with
and the “Rules on Bait Usage,” consult the B.C. Freshwater
a different purpose in mind. All
Fishing Regulations Synopsis (page 8) before you go
rivers, streams, and some lakes
fishing.
shank in B.C. require the use of single
point barbless hooks. If you buy a
lure or spoon that has a treble Lures
barb hook you can easily replace the
Spoons: These wobble and dart in the water as you reel in.
bend treble with a single hook, and
Their movement makes them look like wounded baitfish,
pinch the barb flat on any hook
which entices fish to bite. Depending on the water and type
with a pair of pliers.
of fish you are targeting, there are hundreds of different
designs, colours, and sizes of spoons to choose from.
Bait
Bait is any food or substance used to attract the fish
and tempt them to bite. Bait falls into two categories:

Natural Baits: worms, roe, and krill.

Spinners: As a spinner moves through the water, its rotating

blade at the front of the lure produces vibrations and flash
which can trigger a fish’s strike reflex. Again, there are many
to choose from.

Artificial Baits: artificial substances that are scented or

flavoured to attract fish to bite.

QUICK TIP
Fish can be picky eaters. If you’re not having much
luck, try changing lures to increase your chance
of catching fish.

4 LEARN TO FISH GUIDE

Leaders
A leader is a short piece of fishing line that goes between KEEP YOUR TACKLE CLEAN AND ORGANIZED
your main fishing line and your hook or lure. The material A great way to keep everything you need close at hand
and breaking test strength of the leader will depend upon is to invest in a tackle box. Although they come in many
on the type of fishing you do. Usually, the leader’s breaking shapes and sizes, they all have sectioned trays to keep
test should be less than that of the main line, so that you your weights, hooks, lures, and floats separated and
only lose some leader if you break off on a snag or play a untangled for easy access. Keep a small bag in your tackle
fish too hard. When fishing for larger fish, choose a heavier box for trash or used fishing equipment. Protect wildlife
test leader; in clear water, you’ll probably need a lighter, and leave a clean environment – never leave hooks, lines,
thinner leader. or refuse behind.

Weights
Weights (also known as sinkers) are usually made of lead or
tungsten, and come in various shapes and sizes. Weights
help you to cast further, and sink your bait or lure down to
the fish.

Other tackle box essentials:

• Needlenose pliers (to help remove hooks)
• A fish rag or cloth
Swivels
• Mechanical scales (for weighing those big
Swivels are used to join your heavier main line to your specimens)
lighter leader. Since each loop end of a swivel turns • Measuring tape
independently, it also helps stop your line from twisting,
• Nail clippers (great for snipping line)
especially when using high-action wobbling lures like
• Bait container
spoons. The two most common types are the barrel swivel
(a closed loop at each end of a barrel), and a snap swivel • Small screwdriver (for repairing or tightening
(a quick-release snap on one end, and a closed loop on your reel)
the other). • Plastic holder for your fishing licence
• Sharp filleting knife (for cleaning fish that
you catch)
• Adhesive bandages, and a small tube of antiseptic
cream, in case of cuts
• Extra fishing line and leader material

Floats QUICK TIP

Floats (also known as bobbers) help keep your hook off the Depending on the season, it’s also a great idea to pack
bottom, and allow you to adjust the depth you’re fishing. sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, a baseball cap,
Easily moved up or down your line, floats let you place your and extra clothes for changing weather conditions. If
bait, lure or fly right where the fish are swimming. it’s a family day out, remember the camera!

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 GUIDE

3 Knots and Equipment Set-Up

Here are some simple and effective ways to set up your equipment for different types
of fish and water conditions.

Float fishing Bottom fishing

This is a popular method for fishing shallow water, or in the Use this method for fishing deeper water during warm
spring and fall when fish are actively feeding in the middle summer months, when fish are generally found near the
or top of the water column. With this technique, natural or bottom, or when targeting bottom-feeding fish like carp.
scented artificial bait is suspended at a chosen depth in the Your weight will sit on the bottom. Try using a buoyant,
water using a fishing float. Use split-shot weights to sink the scented artificial bait that floats just above the bottom, where
bait below the float. When a fish takes the bait, the float is it will be more visible to fish. Cast the weight and bait. After
pulled under, alerting the angler. Adjusting the distance from the weight sinks to the bottom, wind in any slack line until
the float to the hook and bait allows you to place your lure there is a taut connection between the weight and rod. Be
at the depth where the fish are. sure to use enough weight to anchor the bait on the bottom.

HOW TO SET UP: HOW TO SET UP:

1. Pass your line through each of the guides on your rod. 1. Pass your line through each of the guides on your rod.
2. Clip or slide a float onto your line. The amount of line 2. Attach a sliding weight so that it slides freely on the
below the float will depend on the depth you want main line.
to fish. 3. Attach a hook and leader set-up to a swivel, then attach
3. Tie your hook directly to the main line with an improved that to the main line below the sliding weight. Your
clinch knot (see next page), or attach your hook – tied leader should be 50 to 60 centimetres (1.5 to two feet)
to a short leader – to a swivel attached to the mainline. in length.
4. Attach split-shot weights to the line at least 30 4. Cast and test to see if the weight of the sinker will
centimetres (one foot) above the hook. Add enough hold your bait in place near the bottom. If not, add
weight so that the float sits upright and low in the water. more weight.

bait
float
hook

water surface
floater

swivel bell weight

bottom

split-shot weights

QUICK TIP
Knot-tying can be tricky, especially if you have cold
fingers! Time spent tying knots while at the water also
hook means you’re not fishing! To maximize your fishing time,
pre-tie extra leaders onto several hooks or lures, and
pack them along with you. Many tackle companies offer
handy and inexpensive leader organizers.
bait

6 LEARN TO FISH GUIDE

Spoon- or spinner-fishing The Improved Clinch Knot
Lures such as spoons or spinners tempt the fish to bite a A good knot for tying lines to swivels, lures and hooks.
moving target. Cast your lure, and allow it to sink to your
desired depth. Keep your rod tip pointed down at the water, STEP 1: Pass the tag end of the line through the eye of the
and retrieve the lure by reeling it in. The depth you are hook or swivel, allowing 10 centimetres (four inches) of line
fishing will depend upon how long you allow the lure to beyond the eye to complete the knot. Double the line back
sink, the weight of the lure, and the speed with which you and make five to seven coils around the line going back to
retrieve it. Fish can be found in all parts of the water column; the rod.
by varying your retrieval speed and fishing depth, you’ll
cover all sections of the water, and improve your chances
of a strike.

HOW TO SET UP:

1. Pass your line through each of the guides on your rod. STEP 2: Hold the coils in place by pinching with your thumb
2. Use an improved clinch knot (see this page) to attach and forefinger. Avoid pinching the eye of the tackle or the
a swivel to the end of your mainline. first loop created by the coils. With the opposite hand,
thread the end of the line through the first loop over the eye,
3. Attach a 50- to 60-centimetre leader to the swivel, and then back through the large loop created by this action.
and then tie on your chosen spoon or spinner.
4. Adding weight just above the swivel will allow you
to fish deeper in the water column.

QUICK TIP
If you see fish chasing your lure but not striking, stop
winding, and allow your lure to flutter down for a
moment or two – to resemble wounded prey – before STEP 3: Before tightening, moisten the knot with some
reeling in again. This might goad a fish into striking what water or a little saliva. Hold the tag end and the line
looks like an easy meal before it escapes. going back to the rod, and simultaneously pull slowly and
smoothly. The coils will form tight spirals. Use your fingers to
slide the spirals back against the eye of the terminal tackle,
making sure that the spirals are not overlapping each other.
Give a final, smooth pull to securely tighten the knot, and
then clip the excess tag end.

QUICK TIP
Moistening the line before completing your knot
prevents the friction of tightening from burning the line
and weakening it.

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 GUIDE

4 Casting and Retrieving

Casting correctly allows you to explore different areas of the water where fish might
be lurking. With a little practice you’ll soon be able to control your casting and place
your bait or lure right where you want.

HOW TO CAST A SPINNING REEL:

STEP 1: Hold the rod handle with your casting hand, with STEP 2: Hold the line against the rod handle with the tip
the guides and reel pointing towards the ground. Wind in of the index finger of your casting hand, and then use your
your line until you have about 15 centimetres (six inches) other hand to flip the bail over until it ‘locks’ in the open
between the tip of your rod and your terminal tackle (float position. The reel is now ready for casting.
or lure). The rod should be pointing upwards slightly from
the ground. Look behind you to ensure that no one is in
your way.

STEP 3: Smoothly bend your arm at the elbow, and raise your hand holding the rod. When the rod is brought past your head,
it will be bent backwards by the motion and weight of your tackle. At this point (about the “ten o’clock” position), without
hesitating, move your forearm forward with a slight wrist movement similar to throwing a ball overhand, and gently sweep
the rod forward in one smooth motion.

STEP 4: As the rod moves forward to about the “2 o’clock” position, release the line from under your index finger, allowing
the line to go free. When your terminal tackle hits the water, wind the reel handle about one turn; the spring-loaded bail will
unlock and flip over on its own, allowing you to continue rewinding your line onto the reel spool. Reel your line taut between
your rod tip and the tackle.

8 LEARN TO FISH GUIDE

HOW TO CAST A SPINCASTING REEL: QUICK TIP
Practice your casting in an area that is open and clear
To prepare for casting with a spincasting reel, all you have of both people and objects in front of and behind you.
to do is press and hold down the large button on the top Also, be safe when practicing by using only a weight,
of the reel with your thumb. Follow the procedures in Step or removing the hook from your lure before casting.
3 and Step 4 for casting a spinning reel, except that when Be sure to use enough weight when practicing.
the rod reaches the “2 o’clock” position of the forward cast,
simply release your thumb’s pressure on the big button for
the line to go free. When the terminal tackle hits the water,
turn the reel handle until you hear a “click,” and then your
line can be rewound onto the reel spool.

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 GUIDE

5 Fish Identification and Basic Biology

The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC manages six hatcheries,

from which we stock over 800 lakes around B.C.

BASIC BIOLOGY

lateral line dorsal fin adipose fin kidney stomach swim bladder
gill gills
gonad

pectoral fin pelvic fin anal fin caudal / tail fin heart liver spleen vent

gall bladder intestine

FISH IDENTIFICATION

Below are the most common fresh water fish targeted by anglers in B.C.

RAINBOW TROUT COASTAL CUTTHROAT TROUT EASTERN BROOK TROUT

Kamloops Trout Cutthroat Trout, Sea-run Trout Speckled Trout, Brookie, Brook Char
This is B.C.’s most common freshwater A fast and aggressive fish, the coastal When hooked, brook trout will dive
sport fish. Powerful and aggressive, cutthroat feeds on other fish for a deep, often heading for the bottom as
rainbow trout are known for jumping large part of its diet. Travelling in they pull the line from your reel. These
clear of the water when hooked. schools, they can provide fast and fish rarely jump, but they always put up
furious fishing. an exciting fight.

WESTSLOPE CUTTHROAT TROUT KOKANEE WHITE STURGEON

Cutthroat Trout Land-Locked Sockeye Listed as a species at-risk in B.C., the
A hard-fighting fish, kokanee are white sturgeon is a catch-and-release
Found in some of eastern B.C.’s high-
actually sockeye salmon that spend conservation fishery, and only on
elevation lakes and rivers and streams
their entire lives in fresh water. portions of the Fraser River. As part of
of the East Kootenay, these fish have
Kokanee will eagerly take flies and the recovery program for this species,
a reputation for aggressively attacking
lures – especially during the summer the Freshwater Fisheries Society raises
lures and flies.
months. juvenile sturgeon at its Kootenay and
Nechako hatcheries.

10 LEARN TO FISH GUIDE

8 To learn more about the fish we release and which lakes and streams we stock, visit gofishbc.com

Many species not traditionally recognized as sport fish are abundant and easy to catch. Here’s a quick guide to some other
fish that you can catch – and where to look for them.

PEAMOUTH CHUB – You can catch peamouth chub from CARP – Carp feed on or near the bottom, searching for
the lakeshore, riverbanks, or piers. Look for rock piles, the food by using their barbels. You’ll find them in sloughs,
wood, bays, and any backwaters that may shelter them. small lakes, shallow bays of large lakes, and slow-moving
During the summer months, peamouth chub can be found streams with abundant aquatic vegetation and sandy to
in the shallow, weedy areas of rivers, streams, and lakes. muddy bottoms. These fish are common, and can be easily
caught using basic still-fishing techniques.

NORTHERN PIKEMINNOW – This species can be found SUCKERS – The largescale and common sucker are the
in most of B.C.’s major river systems, and in many lakes most plentiful of this species in B.C. The Salish sucker, which
throughout the province. Although not generally identified lives only in the lower Fraser Valley, is a species at risk
as a sport fish, they will eagerly take flies, lures, and bait. (this is an example of why it is important to know your fish).
These fish are great fighters, and can be easily caught Suckers are characterized by round mouths surrounded by
from shore, docks, or piers. fleshy, protruding lips, which they use to suck up their food.

While fishing, you might catch any of the following non-native species. These fish often compete with native fish
species for resources, impacting resident fish stocks. Many B.C. water-bodies contain non-native fish which have
been illegally stocked.

SMALLMOUTH BASS – Averaging PUMPKINSEED SUNFISH – YELLOW PERCH – When fishing

20 to 40 centimetres (eight to 16 The pumpkinseed sunfish is a native for yellow perch in lakes, look for
inches) long, these hard-hitting fish of southeastern Canada. You can waters well-covered with reeds and
put up a great battle when hooked. find the pumpkinseed in small lakes weeds. Fishing near artificial
Look for shallow waters with and ponds, and in the shallow, structures like floating docks and
structures like reeds, logs, and weedy bays of larger lakes. The piers can also be extremely
rocks. Bass are most aggressive pumpkinseed prefers clear water productive. Yellow perch average
during spawning, which occurs from and the cover of submerged 15 to 20 centimetres (six to eight
late May through to July. vegetation. it is common to find inches) in length.
these fish in large schools.

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 DID YOU KNOW?
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC stocks
over 800 lakes and rivers each year. Many
lakes are stocked with ‘catchables’ – trout that
are large enough to be caught as soon as they
are stocked. Get up-to-date stocking
information at www.gofishbc.com

12 LEARN TO FISH GUIDE

 GUIDE

Where, When, and How to Catch Fish 6

Part of the excitement of fishing is planning where and when to go, and what to fish for. This
section will help you understand where in lakes and rivers to angle for the various fish species
found in B.C., the best times to fish, and some suggestions of what to use to catch them.

QUICK TIP Sunfish (Bass, Crappie, Pumpkinseed)

These warm-water species are usually found in shallow
Determining a fish’s food source is the key to angling
water containing weed beds, logs, stumps, or rock piles.
success! For example, are the fish eating insects, other
Sunfish hang around these structures because they are
fish, or plants? Are they feeding near the surface, or
also home to insects and small fish, their main food
close to the bottom? Once you know, you can choose
sources. Both jigs and worms, fished with a float, are
the tackle that best imitates their favourite food, and
good choices to catch sunfish. Remember, these fish are
decide where in the water column you should put
aggressive feeders; if you don’t get a bite in five to 10
your lure or bait.
minutes, try another spot.

FINDING FISH IN LAKES FINDING FISH IN RIVERS

The most productive, or nutrient-rich, part of a lake is the Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout, Salmon,
shoal area. These shallows, home to sunlight-dependent and Whitefish
aquatic plants and insects, make them a “grocery store” In flowing water, these fish prefer pools or runs created
for fish. Fish will often be found cruising along the drop-offs below boulders or jams of woody debris which deflect or
at the edge of a shoal. Look for fish surfacing or jumping as slow the current, creating back-eddies and backwaters.
clues to whether this is a good place to start fishing. Fish (trout in particular) like to hold in these productive
spots, since they need only use minimal energy while
Rainbow Trout and Brook Trout waiting for their next meal to be swept downstream.
As a rule, the best seasons to fish for trout are the spring Mornings and evenings are the best times to fish for these
and fall, when water temperatures are moderate. Although species. Casting lures, or using a float and bait (like worms
trout can be caught at any time during the day, morning or fish eggs), are good techniques in these waters. Keep
and evening are best: fish feed most actively then. These in mind that even though rivers are generally not as deep
fish can be caught still-fishing with bait or by casting and as lakes, you’ll probably need a little extra weight on your
retrieving a small lure or fly (page 6). If you’re fishing from a line to
boat, trolling a lure or a fly is a good method, because you offset the pull of the current and get your baits or lures
can cover a large area in search of fish. When setting up down to within 30 centimetres (one foot) of the bottom,
your tackle, remember that trout are generally found in the where the fish like to hold.
mid- or top-water area.
Suckers, Northern Pikeminnow, and Chub
Kokanee These species can be targeted year ’round in the warmer
regions of B.C. In rivers, they tend to favour slower water,
These fish prefer deeper water with cooler temperatures, and are commonly found in backwaters or sloughs. Since
usually less than 10°C. Kokanee are generally found in the these fish are usually located on or close to the bottom,
open areas of a lake, at depths of five to 10 metres (15 to still-fishing with a worm can be very productive. All of the
30 feet), where they search for their primary food source: fish in this group are relatively easy to catch, and can be
a very small organism called plankton. The best way to caught throughout the day.
fish kokanee is from a boat, slowly trolling a set-up like the
one pictured below. These fish are renowned for having QUICK TIP
a small soft mouth, so be careful when setting the hook
and playing the fish, or you may pull or tear the hook right In streams, fish often lie just off the edge of the main
out. Remember that kokanee like to “school,” or travel in a current or behind bottom structure (like boulders), where
group; if you catch one, try trolling through the same area it’s easier for them to swim. While almost hidden, and
again. feeling protected by the cover of the overhead current,
they can easily dart out to snatch a meal as it drifts by.

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Proper Fish Handling 7

Whether you plan to keep (harvest) your fish, or return it to the water (catch-and-release),
make sure you know how to handle it properly.

Catching-and-releasing
CLEANING YOUR CATCH
If you’re planning to practice catch-and-release, it’s vital that
you don’t injure the fish by mishandling it. Always follow • Using a sharp knife, insert the tip of the blade into the
these rules: vent, and cut through the belly all the way to the gills.
• Play and land the fish as quickly as possible.
• Try to keep the fish in the water while removing the
hook; if you can’t, return the fish to the water as
quickly as possible.
• If you use a landing net, buy a rubber, soft nylon,
or cotton net designed to protect the fish’s
sensitive scales.
• Remove the guts.
• If you must handle the fish, wet your hands first,
and be as gentle as possible; try not to squeeze.
• Use barbless hooks, and be prepared to cut your
leader if the hook has been swallowed too deeply.
The hook will dissolve over time.
• Revive an exhausted fish by holding it upright in
the water until it swims away on its own. Never just
throw a fish back into the water.
• Scrape out the reddish-brown kidney, which lies
along the backbone, with a small spoon.
Harvesting your catch
Fish are living creatures, and should always be treated
humanely. Also, remember that responsible anglers never
harvest more fish than they need. If you plan on keeping
your catch, here are some useful tips.

WHEN YOU’RE AT THE WATER

1. Decide what to do with a fish immediately after

catching it. In B.C., you are not allowed to retain fish in WHEN YOU GET YOUR CATCH HOME
live wells. All fish that are not legally harvested must be
released immediately.
1. As you cut up your catch, clean your knife between cuts
2. Clean fish promptly. Digestive enzymes can quickly to avoid contaminating the fish. Wash your knife, hands,
spoil the flesh, making it taste bad. To comply with the and cutting boards often with warm, soapy water, and
law, you must leave the head, tail, and all fins on your then rinse thoroughly.
catch until you get it home.
2. Cut and package your fish into meal-sized portions,
3. Use clean water or premoistened wipes to clean your then freeze or refrigerate promptly.
knife frequently and avoid transferring bacteria into
3. Fish you don’t plan to freeze should be stored in the
the flesh.
refrigerator in a covered container, and used within
4. Once cleaned, wipe your fish with a cloth or paper two days.
towel, put it in a sealable storage bag, and store it in a
4. Keep refrigerated raw fish separated from cooked
cool place; a cooler full of ice is best. Do not put your
to prevent cross-contamination.
catch in a plastic bag unless you can store it in a cool
place; in warm temperatures, the sealed environment 5. Thaw frozen fish in the refrigerator, under cold running
will quickly heat up and break down tissue. water, or in the microwave, and use immediately.

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8 Angling Ethics

Good anglers respect the environment and their quarry, and realize that we all have a
duty to protect both. You can become a better angler by understanding and following
the Angler’s Code of Ethics:

1. Support Conservation Efforts. Give your support Clean, Drain, Dry

to initiatives that protect our environment and the To help prevent the introduction of Zebra and
creatures that depend on it. Be a helper, not just a Quagga mussels and other aquatic invasive
watcher. species such as Eurasian Watermilfoil, anglers
should follow the “Clean, Dry, Drain” protocol:
2. Never harvest more fish than you can use – even if
the limit allows. • Clean: After a boat is pulled from the water, thoroughly
clean all plants, animals, and mud from the boat, motor,
3. Fight Pollution. Pack out all your trash, recycle, and trailer, and other equipment
remove any trash that you find – especially used • Drain: Drain onto the ground all water from the boat
fishing line. (bilges, engine compartments, hull, intakes, etc.) and
from any containers that can hold water, including bait
4. Promote Safe Angling and Boating. Enjoy your containers, live wells, and ballast.
boating and fishing, but don’t take risks. Set an • Dry: Allow all items to dry completely before transporting
example by refusing to go along with others that do. the boat and equipment to another water body.

5. Follow Fishing and Boating Regulations. The

regulations are there for a reason: it’s in everyone’s How To Report Aquatic Invasive Species:
best interest to follow them properly. You can report invasive species by visiting www.gov.bc.ca/
invasive-species or using the “Report Invasives BC” App on
6. Respect the Rights of Other Anglers. Treat other your smartphone.
anglers with the courtesy and respect that you
would expect from them. Don’t crowd in on
someone else’s fishing spot. Don’t make lots of If you have a boat or equipment that you suspect may
noise, or throw things into the water to disturb the contain invasive mussels or if you see a contaminated boat
fish. please contact the Conservation Officer Service Hot-line:
1-877-952-7277 (RAPP)
7. Respect the Rights of Property Owners. Trespassing
to access a fishing location gives all anglers a bad
name. Fish only where permitted.

8. Share Knowledge and Skills. Help other anglers to

improve their skills and enjoy their fishing; share
your tips.

9. Promote Ethical Sport Fishing. Follow this code

of ethics, and help others to understand and
follow it too. Be a safe, knowledgeable, and
considerate angler.

16 LEARN TO FISH GUIDE

 GUIDE

Freshwater Fishing Licence & Regulations 9

Regulations exist to protect B.C.’s fish and wildlife, and the

environment we all share. These regulations change from
time to time to reflect changes in the environment. It is
every angler’s responsibility (not to mention the law) to read,
understand, and follow the fishing regulations, including:
• Provincial regulations
• Regional regulations
• Water-specific regulations
• In-season regulation changes

Fortunately, you’ll find everything you need to know about

the regulations (plus lots of useful angling information) in
one place: The British Columbia Freshwater Fishing
Regulations Synopsis. Pick up a printed copy of the
Synopsis at your local tackle store or Service B.C. office,
or find it online at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/
sports-culture/recreation/fishing-hunting/fishing

Note: Since the Synopsis is only printed every two years, be

sure to check the online version for any in-season changes.

If fishing for Pacific salmon in fresh or salt water, you

need to refer to the regulations managed by the federal
Department of Fisheries and Oceans at: www.pac.dfo-mpo. Your freshwater fishing licence
gc.ca/recfish fees go toward making fishing
even better.
If you are 16 years of age or older you must have a valid 100% of the revenue generated
basic freshwater fishing licence to fish recreationally in non- from fishing licences goes to the
tidal waters in B.C. You must also purchase the appropriate Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC
supplementary licences and stamps. If you are under 16 and to benefit recreational fisheries.
a resident of B.C., you may sport fish without any licence or That’s right, every penny goes
stamp but must still abide by the regulations. into research, conservation and
education programs, improving
angler access and our stocking
You can purchase your recreational freshwater fishing
program. The Habitat Conservation
licence online, or from an authorized vendor.
Trust Foundation receives 100% of
the surcharge revenue collected
Please note, if you’re going to fish in tidal waters, you will from angling licence sales to provide
need to purchase your tidal waters sport fishing licence grants for fish conservation projects.
through the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website.

Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC 17

 Need more information? Start here.
The Freshwater Fisheries Society’s website, gofishbc.com, is a great source of information for both beginners and expert
anglers, from fishing tips to lake-by-lake stocking reports. For even more up-to-the-minute news, sign up for our free
e-newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC was created in 2003 as North America’s only private, non-profit fisheries service
funded by licence revenues. We manage six freshwater fish hatcheries (which stock over 800 lakes and streams each year),
help restore fish species at risk, and deliver programs to educate anglers – including Learn to Fish.

Website address: gofishbc.com facebook.com/gofishbc @gofishbc

Tel: 250.414.4200
@gofishbc
Toll Free: 1.888.601.4200
Email: [email protected] @Go_Fish_BC #gofishbc

Provincial Fish and Wildlife Regional Offices Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO)

To pick up your copy of the B.C. Freshwater Fishing Freshwater salmon fishing is under the jurisdiction of
Regulations Synopsis or ask about in-season changes Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Visit them for information
to the regulations, visit or phone the office closest to you. on salmon management, recreational tidal fishing or
salmon fishing regulations, or to obtain a Tidal Waters
NANAIMO 2080A Labieux Road, V9T 6J9 Sport Fishing Licence.
250.751.7220
Website address: pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/index-eng.html
SURREY 200-10428 153rd Street, V3R 1E1 Tel: 1.877.535.7307
604.586.4400 Email: [email protected]

KAMLOOPS 1259 Dalhousie Drive, V2C 5Z5

250.371.6200 Fishing BC

NELSON Suite 401-333 Victoria Street, V1L 4K3 The Fishing BC website features fishing stories, trip ideas
250.354.6333 and destinations. This is the go-to site for information on
guided trips, fishing resorts, and vacation ideas.
CRANBROOK 205 Industrial Road G, V1C 7G5
250.489.8540 Website address: fishingbc.com

WILLIAMS LAKE 400-640 Borland Street, V2G 4T1

250.398.4530 BC Family Fishing Weekend
SMITHERS Bag 5000, 3726 Alfred Street, V0J 2N0 B.C.’s Family Fishing Weekend is an annual celebration of
250.847.7260 fishing that coincides with Father’s Day weekend each year.
Residents of Canada (individuals who have lived in Canada
PRINCE GEORGE 2000 South Ospika Blvd, V2N 4W5 for the preceding 12 months) can go fishing without
250.614.7400 purchasing a licence.

FORT ST. JOHN Rm 400, 10003-110th Avenue, V1J 6M7 During the weekend, events for anglers and families are held
250.787.3411 around the province. Knowledgeable volunteers are on-hand
at most events to teach you the tricks of the trade.
PENTICTON 102 Industrial Place, V1J 6M2
250.490.8200
This is a great opportunity to get together with family and
friends and try fishing!

18 LEARN TO FISH GUIDE

 GO OUT FOR

WITH FRIENDS.

Go fishing. You can find fishing tips and locations in our

Quick Start Guide plus get your licence at gofishbc.com.
 READY WHEN YOU ARE
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