Shawnigan Lake fishing

Fishing near Nanaimo, Campbell River and the rest of Vancouver Island. See all Vancouver Island lakes.

Vibrant South Island lake known for strong spring trout hatches and lively summer multi-species action.

Shawnigan Lake is a medium lake in Vancouver Island, the trout country reached from Nanaimo. It covers 58.8 ha and runs to 50 m at its deepest point, sitting at 115 m of elevation. Fish here typically run 1 to 2.5 lbs and the stock is Rainbow & Coastal Cutthroat.

Open Shawnigan Lake in the app for the 7-day forecast, depth map and wildfire smoke check

Shawnigan Lake at a glance

Region
Region 1 - Vancouver Island
Management unit
MU 1-4
Elevation
115 m
Maximum depth
50 m
Surface area
58.8 ha
Lake size
Medium Lake (50 - 500 ha)
Trout strain
Rainbow & Coastal Cutthroat (plus Smallmouth Bass)
Typical size
1 to 2.5 lbs (Active Feeders)
Size class
Medium / High-Action (1 - 2.5 lbs)
Stocking
15,000 yearlings
Boat launch
Concrete Ramp (Trailer Friendly)
Motor rules
Gas & Electric Motors Permitted
Ice fishing
Open to ice fishing, confirmed

How to fish Shawnigan Lake

High catch-rate action with solid keeper sizes.

Trolling spoons, apex lures, casting flies along weed beds and rocky points.

Best times of year at Shawnigan Lake

Getting to Shawnigan Lake

Shawnigan Lake village. Public boat launch at West Shawnigan Lake Prov. Park and marina.

Coordinates: 48.6314, -123.6403

Boat launch: Concrete Ramp (Trailer Friendly).

Shawnigan Lake fishing regulations

Standard regional regulations. Public concrete boat ramps.

General Regional Regulations.

Always check the current BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis before you go. Regulations change in season.

Ice fishing at Shawnigan Lake

Shawnigan Lake is open to ice fishing under the regulations on file.

Whether a lake is open to ice fishing says nothing about whether its ice will hold you. Ice conditions vary year to year and across a single lake. Check locally before going out, every time.

Camping and rec sites at Shawnigan Lake

Local shops and lodges in Vancouver Island

Trout lakes near Shawnigan Lake

Data from the BC Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis, and Sites and Trails BC.