Dease River

About: Dease River

Discover the Angler’s Haven: Dease River

Fishing in Dease River, located in the pristine wilderness of British Columbia, Canada, offers anglers a thrilling and diverse fishing experience. The river is renowned for its abundance of fish species, including arctic grayling, rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, northern pike, and burbot. With its remote and untouched beauty, Dease River provides a serene and adventurous setting for both seasoned and novice anglers.

Overview of the Water Body

Dease River winds through the rugged landscapes of northern British Columbia, originating from Dease Lake and flowing into the Liard River. This river is characterized by its crystal-clear waters, diverse habitats, and varied flow patterns, ranging from calm stretches to more turbulent sections. The surrounding wilderness, rich with wildlife and scenic beauty, adds to the allure of fishing in this remote region.

Fish Species

• Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arcticus): Arctic Grayling are known for their distinctive sail-like dorsal fin and iridescent coloration. They thrive in cold, clear waters and are often found in fast-flowing sections of the river.
  • Best Natural Baits: Insects, small crustaceans, and worms.
  • Best Artificial Lures: Dry flies, nymphs, and small spinners.
  • Best Method to Catch: Fly fishing with dry flies or nymphs is highly effective. Target riffles and runs where grayling are likely to be feeding.
• Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): Rainbow Trout are prized for their vibrant colors and strong fighting ability. They are commonly found in both fast-flowing and still sections of the river.
  • Best Natural Baits: Insects, minnows, and salmon eggs.
  • Best Artificial Lures: Streamers, spoons, and spinners.
  • Best Method to Catch: Use a combination of fly fishing and spin casting. Focus on deeper pools and runs where rainbow trout are likely to reside.
• Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma): Dolly Varden are a type of char with a distinctive appearance, marked by light spots on a dark body. They prefer cold, clear waters and are often found in deep pools and undercut banks.
  • Best Natural Baits: Small fish, insects, and salmon eggs.
  • Best Artificial Lures: Streamers, jigs, and spoons.
  • Best Method to Catch: Target deep pools and undercut banks using streamers and jigs. Dolly Varden are aggressive feeders, and lures that mimic small fish are particularly effective.
• Northern Pike (Esox lucius): Northern Pike are known for their long, slender bodies and sharp teeth. They are apex predators in the river ecosystem and prefer shallow, weedy areas.
  • Best Natural Baits: Large minnows, frogs, and small fish.
  • Best Artificial Lures: Spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, and large spoons.
  • Best Method to Catch: Use heavy tackle and large lures to mimic the movement of prey. Target shallow, weedy areas and use a slow, erratic retrieve to provoke strikes.
• Burbot (Lota lota): Burbot are a bottom-dwelling fish with a distinctive, eel-like appearance. They are primarily nocturnal and prefer deep, cold waters.
  • Best Natural Baits: Nightcrawlers, minnows, and cut bait.
  • Best Artificial Lures: Jigs and soft plastics.
  • Best Method to Catch: Fish at night or in low-light conditions. Use a slow retrieve near the bottom, and be patient as burbot are known to be slow feeders.

Expert Techniques for Fishing in Dease River

• Arctic Grayling: Fly fishing with dry flies or nymphs is particularly effective. Approach riffles and runs quietly and cast upstream to drift your fly naturally downstream.
• Rainbow Trout: Use a combination of fly fishing and spin casting. Drift streamers or nymphs through deep pools and runs. Spin casters should use spinners or spoons to cover more water.
• Dolly Varden: Focus on deep pools and undercut banks. Use streamers or jigs that mimic small fish, and retrieve slowly to mimic natural movement.
• Northern Pike: Target shallow, weedy areas using heavy tackle and large lures. Use a slow, erratic retrieve to mimic wounded prey and provoke aggressive strikes.
• Burbot: Fish during low-light conditions or at night. Use heavy jigs or soft plastics, and fish near the bottom with a slow, steady retrieve.

Conclusion

Dease River in British Columbia’s wilderness is a dream destination for anglers seeking a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. With its clear, cold waters and abundant fish species, this river offers something for every angler. Whether targeting the elegant Arctic Grayling, the fierce Northern Pike, or the elusive Burbot, anglers will find Dease River to be an unforgettable fishing adventure. Prepare with the right gear, apply the expert techniques, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this pristine waterway.