Activities
Introduction to River Fishing
Introduction to River Fishing
Glide through a wild, winding river system and cast your line in places few ever reach. Fishing in the Bella Coola Valley is unlike anywhere else. Fed by glaciers and surrounded by towering peaks, these pristine waters offer a rare combination of solitude, scenery, and salmon.
From the comfort of a stable inflatable raft, you’ll drift past old-growth forests, hidden gravel bars, and sweeping mountain vistas. Depending on the timing of your visit, you may be casting for Chinook, Pink, or early Coho salmon, along with Dolly Varden, Cutthroat, and Rainbow trout. For many anglers, the highlight is the exceptional dry fly fishing for wild Rainbow trout, which rise eagerly to well-placed casts in the valley’s clear, undisturbed currents.
Every trip is guided by an experienced oarsman who knows the river intimately — reading the flow, spotting the best holding water, and sharing stories of the valley’s natural and cultural history. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting, fishing here is about more than the catch — it’s about immersing yourself in the wild beauty of Bella Coola.
Group Size
1 to 3
Time of year
Early July to late August
Duration
6 to 7 hours
Minimum Age
6 years (private)
12 years (small group)
Movement & Mobility
Easy
Who Should Book This Activity?
This active adventure is perfect for guests looking to experience the beauty of the Atnarko River while learning the fundamentals of river fishing. Combining scenic rafting with time spent wading and casting from the riverbanks, this guided experience strikes a balance between hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and peaceful immersion in nature.
Participants must be comfortable following the guide’s instructions and stepping in and out of the raft with assistance. If you’re unsure about your fitness level or prefer a more relaxed pace, we recommend booking a private tour for added flexibility.
If you’re not staying with us but would like to inquire about availability, please contact us at 1-604-905-4994 or [email protected].
Safety & Mobility
This experience offers an engaging and hands-on way to explore the Great Bear Rainforest while learning the basics of river fishing. Tailored to suit your group’s comfort and fitness level, it’s Ideal for guests who enjoy being active outdoors and want to connect with the river’s ecology in a more interactive way.
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Before setting out, your guide will provide a thorough safety briefing and fishing orientation to ensure everyone feels prepared and confident. All of our guides are trained in Swift Water Rescue and Wilderness Advanced First Aid and carry radios and emergency communication devices on every outing.
Expect to spend 4 to 5 hours standing, walking along rocky riverbanks, and occasionally wading in shallow waters. Participants should be comfortable following the guide’s instructions at all times for both safety and an enjoyable experience. If you’re unsure about your fitness level or prefer a more relaxed pace, we recommend booking a private tour for added flexibility.
Equipment & What to Bring
Guided tours include all the fishing equipment you’ll need, but please come prepared with:
- Comfortable closed-toe trail or hiking shoes
- Layered clothing for changing weather
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and bug spray
- A camera to capture the experience
Fishing techniques and equipment vary depending on the season and the species. For trout, we typically use light spin casting or fly fishing gear. For salmon, plug fishing with bait or lures is most common.
If this activity is part of your itinerary, please stop by reception to purchase a valid fishing license before your tour.
Planning to fly fish for salmon? We recommend bringing your own gear, as we do not supply heavy-duty fly setups for this style of fishing.
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