Fishing and conservation go hand in hand. Keeping to the fishing regulations in Whistler will help ensure the local fish population does not disappear.
Whistler’s freshwater fish
- Whistler’s rivers, streams, and lakes are home to Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and Kokanee salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka).
- Whistler’s waterways also host Bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus), which is listed as a species of special concern in B.C.
- To report a sighting of a diseased fish please contact stewardship@whistler.ca
River closures during fish spawning periods
- Please stay out of Whistler’s rivers and streams during spawning periods, to protect the local fish populations.
- During spawning periods, fish eggs are hidden in the gravel of Whistler’s streams and are vulnerable to disturbance.
- Rainbow trout are often observed spawning from mid-April to late May.
- Kokanee salmon typically spawn from mid-August to late September.
- Bull trout spawn in the fall and early winter.
Fishing regulations
- Never fish without a valid license and always check to make sure you are fishing within the law.
- The BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations apply in Whistler.
- Fishing licenses may be purchased online or at hardware or fishing stores.
- Download the BC Wildlife Federation’s conservation app for iPhone users to report angling during closures, fishing with prohibited gear, or an excess of the daily quota of fish.
- Ice fishing regulations were introduced in January, 2018.
Other fishing resources
Hunting is strictly regulated in Whistler
- The discharge of firearms is prohibited within RMOW boundaries as per the Firearms Regulation Bylaw No. 874, 1991.
- Bow hunting is only allowed in certain designated areas within RMOW boundaries as per the Firearms Regulation Amendment Bylaw Hunting Bylaw No. 1964, 2011.
- Prior to hunting in British Columbia, please consult the BC Hunting and Trapping Regulations or contact the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.
- To report a poacher, contact the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.
- Download the BC Wildlife Federation’s conservation app for iPhone users to report an unlawful hunt.
