OUTLOOK
It has been an interesting week of weather again in BC. With snow, rain and everything in between, we have not had many folks heading out on the water. Things are looking up though and we will see a warming trend with above freezing temperatures along with some rain. For some systems like the Squamish, we want the rain and warmth. With current river levels on the Squamish more water is needed and if we get some more rain and a corresponding bump in water levels, we expect it to be well worth the trip. Matt has more info. in this week’s Squamish report so have a read of that. For the Chilliwack/Vedder system we are still learning how the flood changes and slide issues will affect water clarity. Some folks have been out scouting/fishing that way and Sterling has an update in his report this week.
On the saltwater front, it is time get down to your boat if you haven’t already this week, to clear off any remaining snow and ice and to make sure things are safe. Getting out for a troll, some prawning or some crabbing is also a great idea. Jason will have a saltwater report next week but when we are getting out the fishing continues to be good.
In the shop we also have a number of items on sale, carried over from our Boxing Week Sale. Jordan has some highlights so if you got a Pacific Angler Gift card now is a great time to use it!
Though we try to keep the report more fisheries based sometimes there is a product that is worth looking at in detail. Before Jordan’s report on the GREAT DEALS still on sale from Boxing Week, we wanted to do a special feature on a product that is very timely. Almost all of our staff have purchased this item with their own hard-earned money and it is a game changer for the saltwater anglers, lake anglers and anyone braving the fun weather we are seeing. What’s the product? The Grunden’s Deck Boss Boot; we could also call it the city snow/slush boss boot. If you are struggling to find a great boot for fishing but also for use around town, check out Matt’s, write up on them below.
Lastly, we have a bunch of great courses that still have spots available over the next month. Check them out in the course section of the report
On to the report!
CLASSES AND COURSES
Fly Fishing Egg Patterns – ONLY 2 SPOTS LEFT
This course is designed to teach you the secrets to one of the most productive presentations in the BC fly fishermen’s arsenal; nymphing egg patterns. This deadly method can be used for different species of trout, char, and salmon. During a 3 hour evening seminar we will teach you key concepts, strategies, and gear that will give you a well-rounded foundation during the seminar portion of the class. Then you will put those skills into practice during a fully guided day on the water.
Zoom Seminar: January 12, 2022
Cost: $275.00+GST
Seminar Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm
Guided Portion: Full Day – January 16 only
Float Fishing for Steelhead
In this fishery, 10% of the anglers catch 90% of the fish. This is your chance to learn from the 10%! Our 3hr evening seminar will educate you on the gear, water types, conditions and other key variables that put veteran steelhead anglers in that 10%. Mastering this fishery will make you the envy of your friends. Upgrade your seminar to include a fully guided day on the water, putting into practice your new knowledge with a Pacific Angler guide.
Zoom Seminar: Jan 17, 2022
Cost: $50.00+GST
Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
Grunden’s Deck Boss Boot – AKA The City Snow/Slush Boss Boot
For many years we have hunted for the best boat boot. Something that will take a wave splash and a wet boat deck, something for the lake angler who might need to deal with a muddy boat launch, something that has enough tread to deal with a muddy park trail but not too much tread that it slips on the deck of a boat …. oh ya, something that is perfect for our lovely rainy Vancouver days.
We wanted something that was soft, comfortable and something that didn’t feel like the classic gum boot. The Grudens Deck boss covers all these but, over the last month of crazy weather, it has proven to be a star in dealing with snow and slush.
I have owned the Grunden’s Deck Boss boot for over a year and all of our staff and many of our guides are now rocking this boot. The reviews have been outstanding. I wear this boot almost year-round. I have used it for everything from lake fishing to après skiing trips to yard work and I honestly don’t know why I didn’t purchase a pair earlier. When sized right they slip on easily for around the house chores and with a heavy sock they are perfect for a cold day down on the boat or early season lake fishing.
Over the last month, they have been a game changer for getting around the city with all the snow and they are not too uncomfortable to wear right into work or the office. I am wearing them right now at my desk as I write the report. If you are looking for something to deal with the fun weather we are seeing, come down to the shop. We have good sizing in stock and they retail for $159.99.
BOXING WEEK SALE – Hold Over
Redington Forge Wading Boots – Reg. $239.99, 15% Off!!
The Forge wading boot from Redington is a great price-point boot that will fit the needs of both beginners looking to get into a pair, as well as experienced anglers looking for a reliable back up.
These boots offer full support, comfort, and durability all at a great price.
Featuring a wide sole design for extra comfort and additional stability, these boots are still quite light in weight. Even while weighing close to nothing, these boots consist of a shock-absorbing midsole for all day comfort and adventuring. The outsole features a rubber rand for extra abrasion resistance and foot protection, all while increasing durability.
With new and improved drainage ports to help reduce water weight and bogging down, they also feature corrosion resistant lace loops for those who want to chase saltier species.
Another great feature is that both the felt and rubber sole can accept studs for those needing extra traction.
Simms ExStream Jacket – Reg. $349.99, 30% Off!!
The Simms ExStream jacket is a great piece to keep you warm on the water, as well as cozy on a night out by the camp fire.
This jacket provides maximum warmth while keeping itself to a minimum weight thanks to over 200g of insulation from PrimaLoft Silver. The Simms ExStream Jacket is toasty, water-shedding (not waterproof), and great for layering as it slides in and out of waders easily. Featuring a collared full-zip front, it is great for layering under, or being its own layering piece under a shell.
Including a stretch woven zippered chest pocket, access to your license or camera is a breeze. And speaking of pockets, the ExStream Jacket features zippered handwarmer pockets. The right side pocket is self-stowing with dual sliders for easy reversible storage and includes low-profile stretch elastic-bound cuffs.
We’ve got these and a few more excellent deals in store so swing on by the shop!
Jordan Simpson
FRESHWATER FISHING REPORTS
Squamish River Fishing Report
We are sitting in an interesting situation with the Sea to Sky rivers. Right now, they are too low for good fishing and the snow has made access an issue. When we look at the weather, things might change for those willing to watch the weather closely. When we see this change, expect things to get good fast.
As we write this report the river is at a 1.7m. The “blips” you see where it has spiked over the last week are hydro dam openings and do not affect the fishing much. With the snow turning to rain and warmer temps coming next week if we see the water level get into the mid 2s I expect good fishing. Get the egging rods and streamer rods rigged, keep a close eye on the weather, snow levels and temps. If you see a jump, get out there.
With all the snow, remember to bring a shovel and possibly chains for access to the river and have some fun. Some of my best days have been in the snow when water levels jump up!
Good Luck,
Matt Sharp
Chillliwack/Vedder River Fishing Report
All fingers are crossed that the river will continue to drop even with the snow and rainfall this weekend. Snowfall typically doesn’t drastically impact water levels so let’s hope that that the trend continues this month. The current conditions are finally fishable as the water level has dropped below 2m and is even starting to turn steelie green. It seems like the worst is behind us and I’m optimistic that the river holds although the clay slides are still putting a ton of color into the river. I know that I’ll be out Saturday/Sunday taking a peek around and hopefully finding some fish.
I’d stick with the larger presentations as the visibility will still be subpar. I heard there was 1.5’ of visibility as of Wednesday. It’d be nice for the visibility to get closer to 3’ as that’s when the fishing seems to improve. We have been busy tying up a whack of pre-tied worms and gooey bobs in case you’re not the best at tying your own. I always recommend sticking with the classic colors like bubble gum, BC orange, and pearl.
Make sure you bring a shovel too. Everyone who has fished that river long enough can think of 2-3 situations where they’ve had to push or shovel someone out of a ditch. The snow level gets quite high even in the ditches and I’ve seen people drive straight into the ditch thinking it was the shoulder of the road. The road is often only wide enough for two cars so make sure you’re fully parked off the road.
Sterling Balzer