Whether you’re an avid fisher or a newbie alike, incredible fishing with beautiful views await in and around Sunshine Valley. Here are our top three spots:
1. Cedar Lake
Located in Sunshine Valley, Cedar Lake is a catch and release fishing and swimming hole close to home that is rich in cutthroat trout and rainbow trout that average 2lbs. Shore fishing is limited so renting a canoe is your best bet for a fun day on the water. Cedar Lake is iced over from November to mid-May.
2. Sumallo River
Winding through Sunshine Valley and connecting to the Skagit River, the Sumallo River is a 30 kilometer stretch of catch and keep fishing best known for rainbow trout up to 50 cm long. The closer you inch towards the Skagit River, the bigger the fish.
3. Skagit River
Beginning in the breathtaking Manning Park and spanning 120 kilometers, the Skagit River is a fly fisher’s paradise rich in Rainbow Trout (average: 16-22 inches), Bull Trout (average 21 inches, 3-4 lbs), and some Dolly Varden (average: 18 inches, 1-4lbs). Any time spent taking in this coastal forest is time well spent; however, the best fishing takes place in August and September along the first 30 kilometers of the river. All fishing is catch and release.
Before heading out on your fishing adventure, don’t forget to purchase a fishing license at a BC IAP near you or online via the National Recreational Licensing System (NRLS). Oh, and make sure to pack some sunscreen, a hat, water, and snacks. You’re going to need them!