Sturgeon fishing enthusiasts know that while the pursuit is open year-round, there are particular seasons that stand out for their abundance and excitement. From the captivating first feast of the year to the prime months where sturgeon thrive alongside salmon, the Fraser River offers an exhilarating journey for anglers throughout the calendar.
Spring
The annual sturgeon season kicks off with great anticipation as spring arrives. From April to May, the Fraser River becomes a hub of activity as anglers eagerly await the arrival of the Oolichans, an anadromous smelt, during April and May. This migration sets the stage for the first sturgeon feast of the year, marking the beginning of peak season. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is not just about catching fish; it’s about being part of an ecosystem coming to life.
As May and June roll in, so does the freshet, bringing high water levels resulting from the melting snow in the mountains spanning from Jasper to the Fraser Valley. Fishing during freshet presents its challenges, but the allure of landing a massive sturgeon amidst the swollen river adds an element of adventure that’s hard to resist. Anglers brave the turbulent waters in pursuit of the ultimate catch, making memories that last a lifetime.
Summer
July and August emerge as the months of choice for many sturgeon anglers, thanks to the combination of ideal weather conditions and warm water temperatures. Picture-perfect moments abound as anglers wade into the river, standing neck-deep while posing proudly with their prized catches. These classic summer months offer not just great fishing but also an opportunity to bask in the beauty of the Fraser River in its full glory.
Peak Season: September-November
However, it’s the months of September through November that stand out as prime time for sturgeon fishing, coinciding with the peak of salmon season. As the weather begins to cool off and salmon begin their spawning journey, sturgeon fishing remains excellent, with these colossal fish feasting voraciously on salmon eggs. It’s a feeding frenzy like no other, providing anglers with unparalleled opportunities to land trophy-sized sturgeon. Moreover, these months also offer excellent prospects for salmon fishing, whether using traditional gear or opting for the artistry of fly fishing.
In conclusion, embarking on a sturgeon fishing adventure on the Fraser River is not just about catching fish; it’s about immersing oneself in the rhythm of nature’s cycles. Each season brings its own charm and challenges, from the anticipation of the Oolichans’ arrival to the adrenaline rush of battling sturgeon amidst the freshet. Whether casting lines under the summer sun or braving the brisk autumn air, anglers on the Fraser River are bound to create memories that will last a lifetime.