Upper Arrow Lake
Part of the legendary Columbia River reservoir system, Upper Arrow Lake is famous across North America for producing massive Gerrard-strain rainbow trout and apex predatory bull trout. Deep water, strong wind currents, and an abundant kokanee forage base create trophy opportunities year-round.
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Upper Arrow Lake at a glance
- Region
- Region 4 - Kootenays
- Management unit
- 4-39
- Elevation
- 440 m
- Maximum depth
- 287 m
- Surface area
- 29800 ha
- Trout strain
- Gerrard Rainbow Trout & Native Bull Trout
- Typical size
- 6 to 11 lbs typical Gerrard rainbows, occasional fish to 20 lbs; bull trout also present
- Stocking
- Wild & Enhanced Gerrard Fishery
- Boat launch
- Paved Concrete Ramp
- Motor rules
- No Restriction
- Ice fishing
- Open, confirmed
When to fish it
- Fall (Oct-Dec)
- Winter (Jan-March)
- Spring (April-June)
Getting there
Paved highway access via Hwy 23 from Revelstoke to Nakusp and the Galena Bay / Shelter Bay ferry.
Coordinates: 50.4167, -117.9167
Regulations
Single barbless hook. Rainbow trout daily quota: 1 (minimum size 50 cm). Bull trout quota: 1 (minimum size 60 cm). Conservation surcharge stamp required for keeping rainbow trout.
Always check the current BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis before you go. Regulations change in season.
Camping and rec sites at Upper Arrow Lake
- McDonald Creek Provincial Park
73 vehicle campsites on eastern shore of Upper Arrow Lake, concrete boat ramp, dock, sandy swimming beach & sani-station
Facilities: Concrete Boat Launch, Campground, Sandy Beach, Flush Toilets, Showers, Sani-Station
Access: Paved Hwy 23 Nakusp (2WD)
Coordinates: 50.1833, -117.8833 Official page
Local shops and lodges in the Kootenays
- High Country Sports, Cranbrook, BC
Kootenay lake tackle, fly gear, camping & local outdoor knowledge
High Country Sports website - Kootenay Fly Shop, Fernie, BC
Westslope cutthroat patterns, high-elevation lake flies & gear
Kootenay Fly Shop 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.