If you are making a trip to Powell River, be sure to include some trout fishing in your plans.

Cutthroat trout are the main species present in our lakes, averaging 12 to 16 inches in size. But with the size restrictions put on some of the lakes years ago, you will have a chance to hook into trophy-size cutthroat in the six- to ten-pound range, or even larger. Powell Lake and its tributaries--Goat and Inland lakes--are closed for fishing from November 1 to March 31, reopening on April 1, while all others remain open all year with some producing trophy fish in December & January.

All lakes provide great angling from April to June and August to October. Inland lake has a good population of fish, great campsites, and that chance at hooking a trophy-size fish. Single barbless hooks are mandatory, and fish over 40 centimetres must be released.

If it's a mix of cutthroat, rainbow and river fishing you would like, check out Goat Lake and the Eldred River. You will find good sizes and numbers of both species in these areas, not to mention great scenery.

For people wishing to camp and access a number of lakes, Nanton or Dodd lake would be a great base camp, putting you in the middle of a network of lakes. Once there, some to check out are Windsor, Horseshoe, Tony, Louis and Kartoum lake.

Here is a quick checklist of the gear you will need: for spincasting, Panther Martins and Kroc spoons are great, but make sure they are equipped with single hooks. For trolling, Willowleafs, Ford-fenders and the local favourite Cowichan spoon work great.

Fly fishing is growing in Powell River, some great local patterns have been developed which produce fish on a regular basis. Leeches, wooly buggers, and stickleback patterns are a must for wet flies, also a good selection of chronomids will come in handy. Elk hair caddis, tom thumb, and an ant pattern will take care of most of the dry flies.

Make sure to check out P.R.O.'s fly selection before you head out.

For a great outdoor experience and to get away from the crowds, come to Powell River and enjoy - guaranteed you will not be disappointed.
Sam Sansalone