Fin-tastic Fishing Spots Around Prince George

Prince George brings visitors from all around the country, fishing rod in hand. That's right; if you're an avid fisher, Prince George is a must for your summer vacation plans. The city is informally known as the capital of Northern BC, embodying the region’s penchant for all outdoor activities. While there are plenty of Prince George attractions, fishing floats to the top as one of the most popular ways to explore the area. Before you head out from your room at the Coast Prince George Hotel by APA, stop by the Prince George Visitor Information Centre at 1300 1st Avenue to borrow a fishing rod, various tackles, and an ice auger, plus maps and information for the areas that you’re heading to. Remember to buy your fishing license online first. And don’t forget to share your Prince George fishing photos with us using #noplacelikecoast and mention @coasthotels; we love seeing your adventures!

Species Found Near Prince George

Rainbow Trout
The most abundant fish near Prince George, Rainbow trout are regularly found in lakes. Use a small spinner or spoon to reel one of these fish in.

Kokanee
This species is a landlocked Sockeye salmon, with blue-silver colouring. A flasher or a glow hook are great tools, but these must be reeled in slowly in order to not spook Kokanees.

Bull Trout
Not surprisingly given the name, Bull trout are aggressive fish with pink-orange spotting and large heads and mouths. This species is typically caught with a fly-rod, but some fishermen choose to catch these with a silver spoon if fishing for Bull trout in still water.

Burbot
This fish is best targeted during the winter months while ice fishing. This species is easily enticed by commotion, so use a heavy flasher jig and hammer when fishing for burbot.

Lake Trout
Lake trout are Canadian char, identified by their round shape, light spots, and a forked tail. These fish are best caught using a tube jig in deep water.

Brook Trout
Another char species near Prince George, Brook trout, are commonly found near Prince George. Look for red and blue spots when trying to spot Brook trout and use small spinners to catch this particular species.

Fishing Spots Near Prince George

Eena Lake
Only 25 minutes northwest of Prince George rests Eena Lake, providing quick and direct access to the fishing hole. Eena Lake is a local favourite, offering a boat launch and dock for shore-bound anglers. Year-round fishing is possible at Eena Lake, including fall fishing on the dock to ice fishing. Installed in 2015 by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, the dock makes fishing more accessible for people, especially those that may not have as much time to hike into remote streams and lakes. You can find Kokanee, Brook trout and Rainbow trout at Eena Lake.

Nukko Lake, Photo Courtesy of Tourism Prince George | Chuck Chin

Nukko Lake
Another popular lake for fishing around Prince George is Nukko Lake, just northwest of the city. Northern pikeminnow is regularly caught at this spot and is the primary fish at Nukko Lake. This particular spot is nearby Eena Lake, making it possible to try both spots in a long day. Shane Lake, Photo Courtesy of Tourism Prince George

Shane Lake
Shane Lake is great for beginners, families and people without a boat as it’s easily accessible by foot down a 10-minute trail in Forests for the World. Trout is plentiful at Shane Lake and can be caught throughout the lake and at the dock that is located on the northeast side of the Lake.

Ferguson Lake
Spend less time on the road and more time fishing by visiting a lake right in the city of Prince George. Ferguson Lake offers avid fishers Rainbow trout catches, thanks to the Lake’s development as an urban fishery. If you need to stretch your legs, there’s a short trail that loops around the lake.
Ness Lake, Photo Courtesy of Tourism Prince George

Ness Lake
Ness Lake is well known for its recreational opportunities. If you’re thinking of coming back in the winter, it’s great for ice fishing in the colder months, according to Camping & RV In BC. Reel in Kokanee, Brook trout and Rainbow trout at Ness Lake.
Purden Lake, Photo Courtesy of Tourism Prince George | Paul Albert

Purden Lake
Renowned for its clear, deep water, Purden Lake is located east of Prince George along the western side of the Rocky Mountain range. You can find plenty of Rainbow trout in the waters of Purden Lake with possibilities of spotting Kokanee, as well as Burbot in the winter months.

Tabor Lake
Both flies and lures are good choices at Tabor Lake, and it’s the perfect spot to experiment due to the Lake’s many hatches. The Lake is located east of Prince George but is close to the town, making it the perfect lake for a quick getaway before returning back to the town to explore the shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities near the Coast Prince George Hotel by APA.

Verdant Lake
Here at this Lake, you may find Brook trout in the two to five-pound range. The Lake, located northwest of Prince George, is also a popular spot for ice fishing and can be home to many activities for the whole family year round.

Vivian Lake
Just past Eskers Provincial Park lies Vivian Lake. This particular Lake is a great fishing spot for those looking for chironomid fishing during their trip to Prince George. Game fish at Vivian Lake includes Rainbow trout and Eastern brook trout.
West Lake, Photo Courtesy of Tourism Prince George

West/Nadsilnich Lake
A popular location around Prince George, Nadsilnich or West Lake is a great spot for both summer and winter activities. The Lake is bordered on the north side by the West Lake Provincial Park, making it a perfect location to bring the whole family, not just the avid fisher.

Blackwater River
BC Adventure calls the Blackwater River a prolific spot for aquatic life. The stream promises large trout from around 11” to 14” long and is a spectacular spot for dry-fly action. Most of the River is accessible by foot and can be traveled by canoe or raft. BC Adventure also states that it is not unusual for an experienced fly fisher to catch over 100 trout per day at this particular fishing spot!

Where to Stay After a Long Fishing Day

If you’re not looking to stray far from your comfortable room at the Coast Prince George Hotel by APA, formerly known as the Coast Inn of the North, the hotel is also home to Shogun Japanese Steakhouse for Teppanyaki-style cooking and Winston’s Resto-Bar. There’s never a shortage of things to do in Prince George, BC. When planning your visit to Prince George, remember that your fishing trip isn’t complete without a stay at the Coast Prince George Hotel by APA! A stay at this pet-friendly property guarantees an authentic local experience with exceptional amenities such as:

• 55” flat screen TVs
• TOTO®️ Electric Bidet Washlets
• Indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna
• Complimentary self-parking

Get your tackles ready and book your trip to Prince George today! In celebration of their grand opening, you can enjoy over 20% off Best Available Rate for stays until November 30, 2019. Learn more.