Wintertime Fishing Ideas (Part 1): BC’s Chilliwack River System

Perhaps one of the Lower Mainland’s most infamous river systems, The Chilliwack (also named Vedder) can be a thrilling experience for steelhead anglers during the winter months. With a solid return of both wild and hatchery fish, this system provides excellent opportunities for anglers to connect with British Columbia’s most iconic species.

Steelhead on the Chilliwack River system.

The Chilliwack (or Vedder) River gets a return of winter-run steelhead which enter the system in early December and through until March or as late as April. The cold, clear waters of this waterway provide perfect conditions and being that the river is lake-fed allows a passable flow even during low periods. A diverse river structure consisting of deep pools, glides, runs, and riffles grants anglers a wide range of fishable water. Steelhead fishing is often considered more as a ‘hunting’ sport as finding where these fish live through reading water is the key to success. First light is often advantageous as it allows an angler to get first drift through a run and target fish that have yet to see a presentation that day, but first light is not always a given. Low light days are best and full sunlight in low conditions can make the fish feel seen and or spooked. Steelheaders often become good hikers because they walk – a lot. If you don’t find yourself walking that much, and you aren’t catching fish, cover more water. Steelhead fishing isn’t like salmon fishing, they aren’t swimming past in mass waves, you have to find the right water, and fish it effectively.

Chilliwack system river/run.

Steelhead angling is not for the faint of heart and does require a level of dedication as well as determination. A tight-line grab or drop of the float is reward enough for many after countless hours pursuing these special fish.

It is now February and we are in the prime of Chilliwack steelhead season! Water conditions are low and clear, but fish are still actively biting. Locating fish in the lower water requires a bit more thought as riffles or run that were once that 2 - 4ft deep may now be gravel bars, or only covered in a few inches of water. Looking for ‘cover’ or places where fish can feel a bit more protected would be the key in these conditions. Float fishing pocket water, or deeper slots where a fish can slide into while moving is water to look for. That walking-speed current, with a bit of chop on top, and 2 – 5 ft deep, is often considered the best for ‘steelhead water’ although it may be slightly tougher to find right now. For fly anglers, long runs with that walking-speed current and gradual depth should prove successful. A little bit of rain or a river bump is always an excellent time to consider heading out on the flow as fish will begin to travel and move around. Be wary of rising water or conditions changing to suddenly, as that can work against an angler.

For gear anglers a float setup with numerous presentations allows an angler to cover many types of water with varying tactics. Having leader boards with pretied worms, bait loops, eggs, gooey bobs, float jigs, and beads will allow an angler to be ready for any piece of water. Presentation depends on the light condition, water depth and colour, as well as temperature. Center pin or level wind rods dominate the valley as they provide the best means of achieving a drag free drift with a float setup. Spoons can also work great for steelhead this time of year and are often underutilized for winter steelhead.

Fly anglers out on the Chilliwack River are best suited with a 7-8wt spey rod 12 -13ft or an 8 or 9wt single hand rod. Intruder patterns, streamers, and steelhead classics will all work however size is important depending on water level and temperature. Flies in size #2 to 2/0, once again depending on style and water condition, in various shades of pink, orange, black and blue, as well as purple are often most popular.

Winter on the Vedder can be brutally cold, so it is important to be prepared and geared up. Waders, gloves, and warm clothing is essential to being comfortable and making the most out of the day. Good wading boots, either felt or rubber with studs, are important for safety as the river can get icy and the currents can be strong. Vests or packs are popular for carrying all the gear you need!

As with any river system it is important to know the regulations before heading out. Always double check regulations and be sure you are aware of any in-season changes. As of February 2023, the following regulations are in place for steelhead season:

1 ) Chilliwack River allows anglers to retain 2 hatchery steelhead per day. Hatchery fish are identified as those fish without an adipose fin (often with a healed scar present).

2) The use of bait is allowed throughout the system and is a popular presentation for float anglers.

3) The top boundary is just above the ‘Slab’ in the upper river, defined by two white fishing boundary signs roughly 100m downstream of the confluence with Slesse Creek.

4) No fishing above Tamihi Rapids Bridge April 1 st to June 30 th

5) No fishing from Tamihi Rapids Bridge to the Vedder Crossing Bridge May 1 st to June 30 th

6) Fly Fishing only, bait ban, May 1 st to May 31 st.

7) No fishing downstream Vedder Crossing Bridge June 1 st to June 30 th

Example of wild steelhead.

Example of hatchery steelhead.

Winter steelhead fishing in the Chilliwack River system is an exciting and challenging experience for anglers both new and seasoned! With the right gear and a bit of preparation, you can have a successful and enjoyable day on the water. Need some help to prepare? Questions about gear or tactics? Give us a call or visit us in store!