For the Townsman
Summer is here, and the beautiful Kootenay Trout Hatchery's fishing pond is alive with hungry, catchable sized rainbow trout!
This summer, we would like to offer even greater opportunities to introduce kids to the fine art of angling.
Mondays and Tuesdays in July, at 10:30 a.m and 1 p.m., our guides will be available for drop-in learn-to-fish sessions, where you can learn everything you need to know to become a successful angler: fish ID, proper technique, safety, ethics, and handling. Then you are free to spend time practising your newly acquired fishing skills in the catch-and-release pond.
You can either bring your own rod, or we can lend rods, bait, and everything you need – free of charge! These sessions can be booked at other times as well — KTH is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. during the summer season.
Ask the tour guides about the opportunity to make your own colourful fishing lanyard, or tying your own fly to try out in the pond. All materials are available upon request.
Even for those who don't fish, the beautiful and relaxed setting offers some unparalleled wildlife and bird viewing opportunities. Frequent visitors include osprey, bald eagle, blue heron, white tail and mule deer, and occasional herds of elk and sheep. Add to this the spectacular mountain backdrop, and you've got the ingredients for a most memorable day with something for everyone of all ages.
Picnic tables are available, and our guides can tour you through the facility and show you the turtle pond or nature walk as well. Bring a lunch and water bottle — dress for the weather, and spend the whole day!
The fishing pond is catch and release only, using single, barbless hooks. Learn to fish sessions (usually two to four hours) are available for a suggested donation price of $5 per person. Contact 250-429-3214, visit.kootenay@gofishbc.com; or just drop by and re-discover the beautiful Kootenay Trout Hatchery – a true hidden gem.
Another new and exciting event is scheduled to take place at the hatchery on August 16, 2014: "Youth on the Fly", a fly fish day camp for youth aged 12 – 15. This action packed day will teach the essentials required to begin fly fishing – including entomology, fly tying, rod set up and casting. Register early – space is limited.
Bring the whole family and enjoy some great times at the Kootenay Trout Hatchery this summer. (Located off the Wardner-Ft. Steele Road, approximately 40 km. east of Cranbrook.)