Blackwater Float Trip
The Blackwater River Fishing: The Blackwater (or West Road as it is called on most maps) drains a vast hinterland in the northern Cariboo/Chilcotin region of British Columbia. Sharing headwaters with the world’s most famous summer steelhead stream, the Dean River, the Blackwater flows east through the Fraser Plateau collecting runoff from xpansive grasslands,muskeg swamps, scattered pine and aspen forests and countless trout filled lakes. The area is at the northern end of the interior dry belt,in the lee of the coastal mountains, which disperse Pacific weather systems, moderate weather conditions create spectacular cloud formations and breathtaking sunsets. The amount of water surface in the upper watershed collects a great deal of solar heat on the long summer days giving the river a very warm temperature (up to 20C/70F) which romotes the rich insect life which in turn supports the ample rainbow trout population. “Wet” wading conditions are the rule through mid August and waders are often donned only for passing weather systems.
The Blackwater River is home to an abundant population of rainbow trout averaging 10-14 inches, with the largest just over 20 inches. They attack dry flies readily and anglers are rarely tempted to fish by any other method. At season opening, June 15, the stoneflies and caddis flies are thick. The caddis continue throughout the summer.The first couple of weeks can involve some amazing stonefly activity and the long, early summer days provide ample opportunity to release more native rainbow trout than you ever imagined. While rafts are used for transport, the majority of the fishing is done while wading.
Blackwater River Accommodation:
This is a comfortable camping trip. The Blackwater Company will provide you with all camping equipment, including a quality air mattress as well as a brand new sleeping bag, which they will later donate to charity.
Blackwater River Travel:
Anglers will fly into Quesnel via Vancouver the day before the trip begins.
Blackwater River Climate:
Temperatures typically range from the mid 60’s to the mid 80’s. In the summer it is usually quite warm during the day and cool in the evening. However, it is important for guests to be prepared for cold rainy conditions throughout the season.
Included:
Guiding for six days and five nights, meals, wine with dinner, all sleeping/camping gear.
Not Included:
Fishing license (approximately $185 CAD – credit cards accepted), beer and alcohol, transportation from airport to your hotel, staff and guide gratuities.