Fly fishing in Kamloops is defined by accessible lakes, diverse trout populations, and a strong local culture centred around the sport. This overview highlights key fly fishing locations in the area, explaining what each one offers to anglers with varying levels of experience.
Roche Lake
Located about 35 kilometres from Kamloops, Roche Lake consistently attracts fly fishers. The lake holds a significant population of rainbow trout, with some fish reaching up to six pounds. These productive waters provide reliable fishing opportunities throughout much of the open season.
The area features camping grounds and a resort offering cabins and boat rentals, allowing anglers to extend their trips and fish at different times of the day. The surrounding forested landscape adds to the overall experience, offering calm waters and a peaceful fishing environment.
Tunkwa Lake
Tunkwa Lake, roughly 40 kilometres west of Kamloops between Savona and Logan Lake, produces reliable catches of rainbow trout. Anglers can fish from boats, tubes, canoes, or along the shore, spreading out fishing pressure and offering flexibility.
Tunkwa Provincial Park and the Tunkwa Lake Resort provide camping and accommodations, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors. The lake's shallow bays and weed beds create ideal conditions for fly fishing throughout the open water season.
Edith Lake
Edith Lake lies within a half-hour drive of Kamloops. Stocking efforts maintain strong populations of Brook Trout, Pennask Rainbow Trout, and Fraser Valley Rainbow Trout, with annual stocking exceeding 10,000 fish.
The lake includes a dock and easy shore access, making it suitable for anglers with children or those preferring to fish without watercraft. Its accessibility also makes it a manageable location for beginners. Calm conditions and active fish populations provide rewarding experiences for those refining their skills.
Jacko Lake
Situated about 30 minutes from the city, Jacko Lake maintains a healthy stock of rainbow trout and offers good boat launch facilities. Its reputation among local anglers is built on productivity and relatively low crowd levels.
Many anglers use Jacko Lake to practice different fly patterns and refine their stillwater techniques. The lake’s manageable size and consistent fish behaviour make it ideal for both experimentation and regular fishing outings.
Knouff Lake
Knouff Lake is located 45 kilometres north of Kamloops, accessible via Heffley Creek Road. The lake supports large populations of rainbow trout, with caddisfly patterns frequently used due to the insect activity on the water.
Cabins and camping spaces are available at Knouff Lake Resort. The deep waters provide opportunities for those seeking larger fish, especially during the summer months. Consistent hatches and a mix of shallow and deep fishing zones cater to a range of angling styles.
Heffley Lake
Heffley Lake, close to Knouff Lake, is a common choice for anglers targeting Pennask strain rainbow trout, known for their active behaviour once hooked.
The lake’s clear, deep waters offer steady fishing opportunities throughout the season, and its easy access makes it popular among both casual and committed anglers. Weed beds and drop-offs support varied fishing conditions, making it a reliable location for multiple techniques.
Six Mile Lake
Six Mile Lake, within a 30-minute drive of Kamloops, becomes ice-free early in the year. This early thaw allows for fishing opportunities before other lakes open.
Rainbow trout here typically range from 30 to 50 centimetres. Anglers often use leech and damselfly fly patterns, which tend to be effective in these waters. The lake’s small size and early-season accessibility make it a useful option for those eager to start fishing after winter.
Bonaparte Plateau Lakes
The Bonaparte Plateau, northwest of Kamloops, contains more than 50 interconnected lakes. This area attracts fly fishers looking for quiet waters with minimal angling pressure.
Many lakes require backcountry access and offer remote fishing experiences. Trout populations remain healthy, though fishing here requires more planning and travel compared to roadside lakes. The isolation of the Bonaparte Plateau appeals to anglers seeking solitude and less competitive waters.
Kamloops Lake
Kamloops Lake sits adjacent to the city itself. It is a large body of water offering both fly fishing and spin casting opportunities.
Trout species vary depending on the location within the lake. The size of the lake allows for exploration and testing of different fishing methods throughout the year. Strong winds can influence conditions, but sheltered areas offer consistent opportunities.
Guided Fly Fishing Services
Several experienced guides operate in Kamloops. Interior Fly Fishing Co. provides lessons and trips focused on stillwater techniques. Maricle Fly Fishing Ventures organizes guided excursions to local lakes, emphasizing productive and accessible locations.
Seasonal Considerations
May and June are the most productive months for fly fishing around Kamloops. Early spring also presents opportunities as certain lakes thaw before others.
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC stocks about one million fish annually in the Thompson-Nicola region. This includes rainbow trout, brook trout, and kokanee salmon, helping to maintain consistent fishing opportunities across many lakes.
Conclusion
Kamloops offers a wide range of fly fishing options, from small, family-friendly lakes to larger waters and remote locations. Consistent stocking efforts and an active community of anglers support the sport at all levels. The area’s diversity and accessibility provide steady fishing experiences for fly fishers of all backgrounds.
