Whatever your preferred method of fishing, whether it’s trolling, reel fishing or fly-fishing, you’re sure to find amazing angling opportunities all around Castlegar.

Castlegar is renowned for its freshwater fishing opportunities and the best part about angling here is you don’t even have to travel outside the city to catch lunkers. The world-famous Columbia River flows through the heart of Castlegar and winds its way to the American border at Waneta. This stretch of the river offers plenty of world-class fly fishing as rainbow trout and walleye are plentiful here. In fact, because Castlegar is blessed with mild winter temperatures, fishing opportunities last all year long and late winter is some of the best time to fish for walleye because of the lower water levels. You can learn more about that through our article, “The Best Winter Fishing Spots in Castlegar.”

There’s also lots of lake fishing to be had such as on Arrow Lakes, which are located just north of the city. The 230-kilometre long lake system is hugely popular with boaters and anglers alike and the lower section of the lake is where local angler Denis Woodcox caught a world-record Kokanee salmon that weighed over 12 pounds! We detail more of the excellent spots to fish through the mild-weather months in our article “The Best Fishing Holes in Castlegar.” And if you’re wondering how to get your kids involved in the sport, be sure to read our story, “How to Get The Family Fishing in Castlegar.

Get your fishing license:

Castlegar fishing charters

ChillBilly Sportfishing Charters
Mountain Valley Sports Fishing & Tours
West Kootenay Fly & Tackle Shop

Clean Drain Dry: Protect our waters!

Keep our waterbodies pristine and free of invasive species. We ask all anglers to please CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY their boat and equipment. Watch for mandatory watercraft inspection stations throughout the area. ALL watercraft, including non-motorized ones must stop; otherwise, you may face a fine. For more information visit the CKISS website.

Related Fishing Stories

The Best Fishing Holes In Castlegar

Castlegar is a world-class destination when it comes to freshwater angling. And these are the best fishing holes in the city.


Out There Outdoors Magazine Showcases Castlegar in the Autumn

Out There Outdoors has featured the Castlegar in its article about exploring the Arrow Lakes region in the autumn.


Meet Watercolour Painter Tara Smith

Tara Smith not only loves fishing, she loves capturing them in her watercolour paintings. She's also a big fan of the recreating the intricacies of tied flies in her work.