Cowichan Lake
One of Vancouver Island's premier large freshwater lakes offering wild rainbow and cutthroat action year-round.
Open Cowichan Lake in the app for the 7-day forecast, depth map and wildfire smoke check
Cowichan Lake at a glance
- Region
- Region 1 - Vancouver Island
- Management unit
- MU 1-5
- Elevation
- 164 m
- Maximum depth
- 152 m
- Surface area
- 6204.0 ha
- Trout strain
- Wild Coastal Cutthroat & Rainbow Trout
- Typical size
- 2 to 5 lbs (Quality Trout)
- Stocking
- Wild self-sustaining fishery
- Boat launch
- Concrete Ramp (Trailer Friendly)
- Motor rules
- 🚤 Gas & Electric Motors Permitted
- Ice fishing
- Open, confirmed
When to fish it
- March - June
- September - November
Getting there
Lake Cowichan townsite, multiple public concrete boat ramps, marinas, provincial parks.
Coordinates: 48.8747, -124.2597
Regulations
Single barbless hook, bait ban in tributaries, check synopsis for wild trout quotas.
Always check the current BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis before you go. Regulations change in season.
Camping and rec sites at Cowichan Lake
- Cowichan Lake Access Point
No designated vehicle campground on this lake (Day-use / backcountry access only)
Facilities: Day-Use Shoreline, Cartop Launch
Access: Lake Cowichan townsite, multiple public concrete boat ramps, marinas, provincial parks.
Coordinates: 48.887759, -124.261039
Local shops and lodges in Vancouver Island
- River Sportsman, Campbell River, BC
Island stillwater flies, sinking lines, rental gear & coastal lake intel
River Sportsman website - Island Outfitters, Victoria, BC
Vancouver Island trout gear, pontoon boats & custom fly tying
Island Outfitters website
Other lakes nearby
Data from the BC Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis, and Sites and Trails BC.