Whitetail Lake
Featured on the cover of the BC Fishing Regulations Synopsis, Whitetail Lake is universally regarded as one of the finest trophy stillwaters in the Kootenays. Stocked with fast-growing Gerrard and Premier strains, it regularly produces rainbows over 5–8 lbs.
Open Whitetail Lake in the app for the 7-day forecast, depth map and wildfire smoke check
Whitetail Lake at a glance
- Region
- Region 4 - Kootenays
- Management unit
- 4-25
- Elevation
- 990 m
- Maximum depth
- 45 m
- Surface area
- 140 ha
- Trout strain
- Gerrard & Premier Strain Trophy Rainbows
- Typical size
- 4 to 9+ lbs (Trophy Quality Class)
- Stocking
- 10,000 Premier & Gerrard Rainbow Yearlings
- Boat launch
- Concrete Boat Ramp
- Motor rules
- Electric Motor / Low Power (Speed Restriction)
- Ice fishing
- Open, confirmed
When to fish it
- Spring (May-June)
- Fall (Sept-Oct)
Getting there
Maintained gravel Forest Service Road access from Canal Flats / Findlay Creek FSR.
Coordinates: 50.1833, -116.0333
Regulations
Single barbless hook. Bait ban in effect all year. Daily quota: 1 rainbow trout (minimum 50 cm). Electric motor only.
Always check the current BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis before you go. Regulations change in season.
Camping and rec sites at Whitetail Lake
- Whitetail Lake Recreation Site
Forestry recreation site with 30+ campsites and concrete ramp
Facilities: Boat Ramp, Campground, Toilets, Dock
Access: Maintained Gravel FSR (2WD)
Coordinates: 50.213642, -116.031237
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.