Looking for a peaceful outdoor escape or a great fishing spot in British Columbia?
The Chilliwack River is one of the best places to go fishing — whether you’re local or visiting from out of town. I recently explored it and made a 3-minute video of my experience (scroll down to watch). Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own fishing adventure.
📍 Where Is Chilliwack River?
The Chilliwack River (also called the Vedder River in some sections) is located in Chilliwack, BC, about a 1.5-hour drive east of Vancouver. The river runs along Chilliwack Lake Road, and you’ll find many public access points along the way.
📌 Google Maps Location:
Chilliwack River Fishing Area on Google Maps
🎣 What Can You Catch?
Depending on the season, the river is full of:
- Salmon (Chinook, Coho, Chum) – 🗓️ Best in Fall (Sept–Nov)
- Steelhead – 🗓️ Best in Winter to Early Spring (Dec–Mar)
- Rainbow & Cutthroat Trout – 🗓️ Best in Summer (June–Aug)
🧰 What You’ll Need
- ✅ BC Freshwater Fishing License
🎟️ Buy online here: https://www.gov.bc.ca/fishing-licence
(Prices vary by age and residency) - 🎣 Rod, reel, line, hooks, and bait
- 🥾 Waders or waterproof boots
- 🎒 Backpack with snacks, water, sunscreen
- 🕶️ Polarized sunglasses (optional but helpful)
- 📱 GPS or phone with offline map
🚗 How to Get There
From Vancouver:
- Take Hwy 1 East to Exit 119 (Vedder Road) in Chilliwack.
- Drive south on Vedder Road → Turn left onto Chilliwack Lake Road
- You’ll see river access points starting at Vedder Crossing Bridge
Pro Tip: There’s free parking along the road near most fishing spots.
🛏️ Where to Stay Nearby
If you want to stay overnight or make it a weekend trip:
🏕️ Vedder River Campground
- Riverside campsites close to fishing spots
- Website: https://vedderrivercampground.ca
🏨 Hotels in Chilliwack:
- Coast Chilliwack Hotel by APA – Comfortable and central
- Comfort Inn Chilliwack – Budget-friendly option
- Search more on Google Maps or Booking.com
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
- 🐟 Fall (Sept–Nov) – Best salmon runs
- ❄️ Winter (Dec–Mar) – Good for steelhead (cold but rewarding)
- 🌞 Summer (June–Aug) – Great weather, family-friendly, good trout
🎥 Watch My Fishing Adventure!
Want to see what it’s like before you go?
👉 Watch this short 3-minute video of my fishing day on the Chilliwack River:
🧠 Extra Tips
- Check fishing rules before you go: BC Fishing Regulations
- Go early in the day for a quiet experience
- Respect wildlife and keep the river clean
- Talk to local anglers – they often share great tips!
✅ Ready to Go?
Whether you’re after salmon, steelhead, or just a relaxing day by the river, Chilliwack offers some of BC’s best fishing. So grab your gear, get your license, and enjoy your own fishing adventure!
