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Waning Crescent · solunar good
Fishing around Prince George
AI field guide · refreshed weeklyPrince George Fall Fishing: September Peak for Char and Kokanee
What's biting
Dolly Varden char
Where: Nechako Reservoir, Crooked River, McLeod Lake — rocky shorelines and creek mouths where cooler water enters.
Early fall is prime time as water cools. Fish small spinners (1/8–1/4 oz) or spoons near drop-offs; fly-fish with black or olive streamers in current seams. Dawn and dusk most productive.
Caution: Confirm current possession limits and size restrictions with BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis.
Kokanee salmon
Where: Nechako Reservoir — pelagic zone 6–15 m (20–50 ft) depth; concentrate near dam and creek inflows.
September is peak spawning migration; use small jigging spoons (1/4–3/8 oz) in silver or chartreuse, or troll slowly with tiny plugs. Fish early morning and late afternoon when light is low.
Caution: Check BC regulations for kokanee season dates and any spawning closures before heading out.
Rainbow trout
Where: Nechako Reservoir shallows, Crooked River, smaller lakes (Cluculz, Purden) — weedy margins and inlet streams.
Water cooling to 13°C (55°F) triggers feeding. Cast dry flies (Adams, Elk Hair Caddis) in early morning; nymph fish deeper holes by mid-day. Spinners work well in current.
Caution: Verify season status and daily catch limits before fishing.
Lake whitefish
Where: Nechako Reservoir, McLeod Lake — deeper basins 8–20 m (26–66 ft), especially near structure.
Fall is excellent; use small jigging spoons, maggots, or tiny flies on light tackle. Vertical jigging near drop-offs is most effective. Often underutilized but abundant.
Caution: Confirm current regulations for whitefish; they are often lightly regulated but always check.
Northern pike
Where: Crooked River, McLeod Lake shallows, weedy bays — vegetation edges and deadfall.
September water temps favour active feeding. Throw large spinnerbaits, soft plastics, or live shiners near cover. Early morning and overcast conditions best; expect aggressive strikes.
Caution: Pike can reach large sizes; handle carefully and check size/possession rules before keeping any.
Best times
Early morning (06:00–09:00) and late afternoon (17:00–dusk) this week; overcast days (Sept 9–10) will extend active feeding. Waning crescent (low light) favours surface activity. Avoid midday bright sun.
Waters to try
- Nechako Reservoir (primary), Crooked River, McLeod Lake, Cluculz Lake, Purden Lake, Salmon River.
Regulations
Always consult the current BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis (https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/sports-culture/recreation/fishing-hunting/fishing) for season dates, daily catch limits, size restrictions, and any closures. Regulations change annually and may vary by water body. A valid BC fishing licence is required.
BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis ↗The fishing note for Prince George, every week
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