Ice Fishing in Kamloops
Patience, patience
With colder temperature, some think fishing season is coming to an end - for others, it's a season just beginning. Here in the Kamloops area, December is usually the start of a fun fishing season in the lakes of higher elevations.
Ice needs to be at least 15 centimetres (six inches) to be safe to walk on and should be 45 centimetres (18 inches) or more to support the weight of a vehicle.
Fish caught in cold waters are much healthier, as they are not exposed to the bacteria in the warm waters of summer. Many lakes in the Kamloops region are in higher elevations; combined with exceedingly cold winter temperatures, these rural lakes make for an excellent day trip. Alternatively, make it a weekend by staying in the city or at a winterized lodge.
Ice fishing is a great sport, but people need to take precautions and always be aware of the ice thickness (an ice thickness of six inches is the minimum you should walk on) as well as the change in winter temperatures. Be very prepared for winter conditions such as wind chills and the fact that you aren't moving much and will feel cold quickly if not dressed properly. Depending on how long you plan to spend out on the ice, it may be of consideration to you to purchase a shelter and heater. This is optional is pertains to personal preference.
Bait
A variety of bait may be used to fish for trout. One of the best is shrimp you buy in cans in the grocery store, followed closely by maggots, earthworms and mealworms. For fly fishers, nymphs, leeches and shrimp are good.
Gearing Up
Canadian Tire - 250-374-9747 or 250-376-2013
Kamloops Fly Shop - 250-377-8461
Surplus Herby's - 250-376-2714
WalMart - 250-374-1591
Information
· Visitor Centre: 1-800-662-1994