Discover world class fly-fishing action on remote mountain lakes and the Elk River which contains one of the last remaining wild populations of West Slope cutthroat trout in North America.

 

The scenic Elk River is the easternmost watershed in British Columbia, fed by more than thirty tributaries. An exceptional dry-fly river, its season starts in late June, producing excellent dry-fly  fishing throughout the hot summer months - and often carrying on right into October. With wild populations of West Slope cutthroat trout, bull trout and Whitefish, the Elk River and its tributaries sport some of the largest Bull trout found anywhere (up to 20 lbs) and cutthroat ranging around 19".

 

A guided float-trip in a Mackenzie-style drift boat is a great way to get to know the local action on the Elk, while many of the smaller rivers and tributaries are ideally suited for wading and can produce a good number of large fish. As with many other significant fishing rivers in North America, catch-and-release practices are commonly used and encouraged on the Elk River.

 


More Fishing Opportunities

Numerous lakes in the region are stocked with either Eastern Brook, Blackwater Rainbows or West Slope cutthroat trout and are most productive with a canoe or float-tube. Many lakes can be reached by vehicle or a short walk-in while countless more remote alpine lakes can be reached with a backpack and good hiking boots. For those looking for Kokanee Salmon, Lake Koocanusa is a short 30 minute drive from Fernie and produces excellent fishing for Kokanee and several other species throughout the summer months.

 

 

Canadian Fly-Fishing Services offers all-inclusive, single or multi-day fly fishing packages on the Elk River and it’s tributaries.  Drift or wade with professional, local, licensed Guides. All abilities welcome.  Executive member of the Kootenay Angling Guides Association.

 

Fishing Information, Guiding and Rentals

 

 

Kootenay Fly Shop is a full-service fishing store specializing in local hand tied flies and top name fly fishing products. Our shop also offers instruction in fly casting, fly tying and fly fishing schools, shuttle service for visitors to the area with their own boats and the best information available for catching the big ones. Kootenay Guiding Company can offer the discerning fly fisherman with his/her choice of fishing vacation experiences including 1-5 day guided float trips, walk and wade on smaller local rivers, and unique Heli fishing trips into remote alpine lakes.

Pro Fish Guiding & Rafting Tours is the ultimate experience in guided fly fishing, whether you are a pro or just looking for the right place to fish we fish on all local rivers and lakes.  Locally owned and operated with years of experience.