Merritt/Kamloops “spring classic” trip?

**troutpocket** · November 6th, 2009, 03:09 PM

Hey all,

I’m starting to plan a first trip up from central WA for lake fishing. My timeframe (dictated by work) will be mid-June and I’ll probably have 4-5 days to fish. I’m looking for input for a handful of lakes to get a feel for the Merritt/Kamloops region. I'll be bringing my water master raft and 4wd vehicle. My ideal setup will be a couple of different lakes with cabin rentals to use as basecamps to explore the area.

I’ve read a bit about the region and have destinations like Roche, Tunkwa, and Chataway in mind already. Are these good candidates for a mid-June trip?

I’d like to hear about a guide recommendation as well. I’m just starting to get up to speed on the lakes in my area and would appreciate some instruction from a local “wizard” to shorten the learning curve on my trip.

Thanks in advance,
TP

**eagledays** · November 6th, 2009, 03:58 PM

If you want to spoil yourself, you might want to put Corbett Lake on your list.

They have cabins that include your fishing fee otherwise I think it is $50 - $100 to fish per day which includes a boat?

Lots of big fish.

I have been there twice and the smallest I ever hooked was 2 lb., the biggest 9.5 8.5 7.5 and the like...

You certainly do not need a guide for most of these lakes.
The correct lines and flys for the time of year are more important.

Hence in June month it's obviously chronomids as one of your go too's.

**crazy_fishcreature** · November 6th, 2009, 04:49 PM

There alot more lakes better that u wouldnt have to pay for. Just need to do some research and exploring.

**eagledays** · November 6th, 2009, 04:59 PM

Nope. Don't agree

He's only here for 4 days or so.

Let him live a little.

**chauchey** · November 6th, 2009, 05:20 PM

Originally Posted by eagledays

Nope. Don't agree

He's only here for 4 days or so.

Let him live a little.

I'd have to agree with you. I think if you have 4 days, that's truthfully not alot of time to mess around. Especially if you're generally a busy guy. If you don't work much in the winter and you can sift through all of the disinformation on the 'net great, but keep in mind that he's not from the region and I'm guessing by his thread title he'd like something that's a statisitical garuantee versus a lake that he needs to figure out could be good, then fish, then get good at.

Spend the extra and come home satisfied. Other private water options include Douglas Lake Ranch(1 doz. private, stocked lakes $40-130) and 7 1/2 Diamond Ranch, all near the Merritt area.

**troutpocket** · November 6th, 2009, 07:06 PM

Thanks for the replies so far. I totally understand about not naming names when it comes to local gem fisheries.

I've never hired a guide for lake fishing before. However, with the multitude of variables that affect lakes, the sheer number of lakes available in the BC interior, and my decidedly short window of time, I thought getting a recommendation for a reputable guide that could help me pick a lake and get dialed on what's being eaten where could be a big help.

I'd rather not fish private lakes. Something just doesn't feel right to me when I've had great days on public water. But knowing which lakes are likely to be fishing well during the time I can fish is, of course, the wild card.

If anyone is going to be in central WA, I'm happy to provide a little local intel!

TP

**eagledays** · November 6th, 2009, 07:42 PM

We have given you a couple of names.

Pretty hard to beat. (all time frames considered)

Wishin you...

All the best.

**eagledays** · November 6th, 2009, 08:05 PM

You picked 3 very good lakes.

We could all rattle off some others, others we don't.

Remember also....

Just because a lake is on the map is no way a guarantee that you will find it the same day.

Over..

**johnk** · November 6th, 2009, 11:12 PM

Originally Posted by troutpocket

Thanks for the replies so far. I totally understand about not naming names when it comes to local gem fisheries.

I've never hired a guide for lake fishing before. However, with the multitude of variables that affect lakes, the sheer number of lakes available in the BC interior, and my decidedly short window of time, I thought getting a recommendation for a reputable guide that could help me pick a lake and get dialed on what's being eaten where could be a big help.

I'd rather not fish private lakes. Something just doesn't feel right to me when I've had great days on public water. But knowing which lakes are likely to be fishing well during the time I can fish is, of course, the wild card.

If anyone is going to be in central WA, I'm happy to provide a little local intel!

TP

Hi TP,

Corbett is probably the last lake I would recommend. The rainbows in there, although mildly photogenic, are mutated and lack the stamina to put up a fight condusive to Interior rainbows. They are usually good for one 40 yd. run and then bulldog on the bottom until they're too exhausted to fight any more. A day of fishing will cost you $90 which does not include a boat.

I would consider taking a look at Lac Le Jeune as a homebase from where you can daytrip out to Jacko which should be spot on that time of the year, Lodgepole Lake is close, picturesque and a small but technical lake, Edith Lake is about an hour away and has some quality brookies as well as rainbows, McConnell is also fairly close with good callibaetis hatches in June as well as Stake Lake or you could stay put at Lac Le Jeune and fish Little LLJ or the bigger main lake.

The lakes around Roche and Tunkwa should be decent in June as most Interior lakes will be.

You can contact Ron at Kamloops Flyshop @ 250 377 8461 for guiding and for lake updates.

You could also contact Fred at the Powderkeg in Merritt @ 250 378 9211 as he is in the hub of some great lakes nearby.

Other resorts to consider are Chataway Lakes, if your looking for high country lakes with minimal pressure but be forewarned there is 30 km. of washboard leading to the resort but that's never deterred me before.
Mile High Resort is situated between Lac Le Jeune and Tunkwa and is a well kept resort on Face Lake which is known for it's smaller but cooperative fish.
Surrey Lake Resort is also in the same area with a few satellite lakes nearby.

Whatever you choose, make the most of your limited time and best of luck.

John

**chauchey** · November 6th, 2009, 11:37 PM

Well...there you go. Just for the record, if I say something about fishing the Kamloops region and John say's different....you should probably go with what John says.

lol.