Quick Info: Fishing in Metro Vancouver
- Where: Lakes, rivers and piers across Metro Vancouver, from North Vancouver and Coquitlam to Richmond and White Rock
- Best for: Stocked trout lakes, salmon runs, pier fishing, crabbing and guided sturgeon trips
- Beginner picks: Rice Lake, Como Lake, Deer Lake and White Rock Pier
- Licences: Freshwater licence for lakes and non-tidal rivers; separate tidal licence for saltwater and the lower Fraser
- Best seasons: Spring and fall for stocked lakes; spring to summer for piers and crabbing
- Rules: Check the official regulations before every trip, since limits and closures change
Fishing in Metro Vancouver is easier than most people expect. Within a short drive or SkyTrain ride of downtown, you can cast for stocked rainbow trout at Rice Lake and Como Lake, watch coho and chinook use the Capilano River, drop a crab trap off Ambleside Pier or White Rock Pier, or try catch-and-release white sturgeon fishing on the Fraser River. This guide covers the best fishing spots in Metro Vancouver by water type, with licences, target fish, access and beginner tips for every location.
Quick answer: The best fishing spots in Vancouver for beginners are Rice Lake in North Vancouver, Como Lake in Coquitlam and Deer Lake in Burnaby for stocked trout, and White Rock Pier for saltwater. For salmon near Vancouver, try the Capilano River. For sturgeon, book a guide on the lower Fraser River. You need a freshwater licence for lakes and a separate tidal licence for the ocean.
Best Fishing Spots in Metro Vancouver at a Glance
Use this table to compare the top places to fish near Vancouver by water type, main catch and best use. Each location has its own section below with access and tips.
| Spot | City | Water type | Main catch | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rice Lake | North Vancouver | Stocked lake | Rainbow trout | Beginners and accessible fishing |
| Como Lake | Coquitlam | Stocked lake | Rainbow trout, cutthroat, carp | Kids and families |
| Lafarge Lake | Coquitlam | Stocked lake | Rainbow trout, carp | Fishing without a car |
| Green Timbers Lake | Surrey | Stocked lake | Rainbow trout | Rod loan and short walk |
| Deer Lake | Burnaby | Lake | Rainbow trout, carp | Carp and boat fishing |
| Buntzen Lake | Anmore | Reservoir | Rainbow, cutthroat, kokanee | Scenic day fishing |
| Capilano River | North Vancouver | River | Salmon, steelhead | Salmon runs |
| Garry Point Park | Richmond | Fraser River mouth | Salmon and estuary fish | Tidal shore fishing |
| White Rock Pier | White Rock | Saltwater pier | Perch, flounder, crab | Pier fishing and crabbing |
| Jericho Pier | Vancouver | Saltwater pier | Perch, Red Rock crab | City pier fishing |
| Ambleside Pier | West Vancouver | Saltwater pier | Perch, crab, salmon in season | Crabbing and views |
| Rocky Point Pier | Port Moody | Saltwater pier | Crab, bottom fish | Family day out |
| Fraser River sturgeon | Richmond to Fort Langley | River | White sturgeon (release) | Guided trips |
| Granville Island charters | Vancouver | Charter | Salmon | Visitors |
Do You Need a Fishing Licence in Vancouver?
Yes. British Columbia separates freshwater and tidal licences, and you need the right one for where you fish.
- Freshwater (lakes and non-tidal rivers): Residents and non-residents aged 16 and older need a basic freshwater fishing licence. Options include one-day, eight-day and annual licences, bought online through the provincial WILD system with a free Fish and Wildlife ID. Since April 1, 2026, most anglers no longer need to carry a paper or digital copy of their licence. See the official freshwater licence page.
- Tidal waters (saltwater piers and the lower Fraser): Anyone fishing or crabbing in tidal water needs a tidal waters sport fishing licence from Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Freshwater licences do not apply in tidal water. See the Fisheries and Oceans Canada licence page.
- White sturgeon: In non-tidal sections of the lower Fraser, a White Sturgeon Conservation Licence is also required on top of your freshwater licence.
- Salmon: Salmon rules are set separately from the freshwater synopsis, so always check current Fisheries and Oceans Canada notices.
- Regulations: Daily limits, gear rules and closures are listed for the Lower Mainland (Region 2) in the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis.
Licence fees go directly to the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC to support stocking, conservation and public access, which is why most urban lakes are stocked every spring and fall. Rules and licence systems change, so confirm everything with the official sources before you head out.
Best Lakes for Trout Fishing Near Vancouver
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC runs a Fishing in the City program that stocks rainbow trout from the Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery in lakes in North Vancouver, Coquitlam, Surrey, Maple Ridge and Burnaby. These lakes are the best fishing spots in Vancouver for beginners, kids and anyone who wants to fish without a long drive. Spring and fall are the best seasons, and the fish are easiest to catch soon after stocking.

Rice Lake Fishing, North Vancouver
Rice Lake is the classic answer to where to fish near Vancouver without a long drive. It sits in the forest of the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, a short walk from the Rice Lake Gate on Lillooet Road, and a trail circles the whole lake so you can pick a quiet stretch of shoreline. Watch for overhanging branches when you cast.
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC stocks the lake with rainbow trout in spring and fall, which makes it one of the most reliable beginner spots in the region. The wheelchair-accessible dock at the south end is also a favourite for families who want a safe place to fish with small kids.
- Target fish: Stocked rainbow trout
- Best seasons: Spring and fall, soon after stocking
- Access: Gravel path from the Rice Lake Gate, about a 10 minute walk
- Good to know: Washrooms, picnic tables and a shelter on site; dogs are not allowed

Como Lake Fishing, Coquitlam
Como Lake is a small urban lake in Coquitlam that works well for kids and first-time anglers. Two fishing piers reach out over the water, and the Lakeside Loop Trail gives you easy walking between spots. Rainbow trout are stocked in spring and fall, and you can also pick up cutthroat trout, carp, catfish and sunfish.
Because the park has a playground, picnic tables and Wi-Fi, it is easy to turn a short fishing session into a full family afternoon. Washrooms are near the parking at the north end of the lake.
- Target fish: Rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, carp, catfish, sunfish
- Best seasons: Spring and fall
- Access: Drive-up parking and flat trails
- Good to know: Two fishing docks; dogs are allowed

Lafarge Lake Fishing, Coquitlam
Lafarge Lake is the easiest fishing lake in Metro Vancouver to reach without a car. It sits inside Town Centre Park on Pinetree Way, a short walk from the Lafarge Lake-Douglas SkyTrain station on the Millennium Line. A paved pathway circles the water, so you can try the sandy beach on the north side or the rockier south shore.
The lake is shallow and warms quickly, so the bite can fade in the heat of summer. Spring and fall are the best times to fish for the rainbow trout stocked here. Bullhead, pumpkinseed sunfish and common carp also live in the lake.
- Target fish: Rainbow trout, bullhead, pumpkinseed sunfish, common carp
- Best seasons: Spring and fall
- Access: SkyTrain to Lafarge Lake-Douglas, then a short walk
- Good to know: Washrooms, shelter, playground and a seasonal concession
Green Timbers Lake Fishing, Surrey
Green Timbers Lake is a small lake inside the Green Timbers Urban Forest in Surrey, with a fishing dock and room to cast from shore. Fish tend to gather in the deeper water at the north and south ends, especially in warm weather. Your best chance at a rainbow trout comes in the week or two after a stocking.
If you do not own gear, the Surrey Nature Centre inside the park lends rods, reels and tackle. The lake is a five minute walk from the parking lot on 100th Avenue.
- Target fish: Stocked rainbow trout, common carp
- Best seasons: Spring and fall, shortly after stocking
- Access: Five minute walk from the 100th Avenue parking lot
- Good to know: No watercraft allowed; washrooms on the northeast side; dogs allowed

Deer Lake Fishing, Burnaby
Deer Lake Park is a peaceful place for a short fishing outing in the middle of Burnaby. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout by the Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery in spring and fall, and it also holds a large population of common carp. Trout fishing is best in spring and fall, while carp fishing runs from spring through fall.
Shore fishing for trout can be tricky because the near-shore water is shallow and weedy in warm months, so many anglers use the dock or a rowboat from the rental area on the east side. Powered boats are not allowed. After fishing, the Burnaby Art Gallery and the lake trails are right next door.
- Target fish: Stocked rainbow trout, common carp
- Best seasons: Spring and fall for trout; spring to fall for carp
- Carp tip: Corn and dough balls on strong tackle
- Good to know: Row boats only, no powered boats

Buntzen Lake Fishing, Anmore
Buntzen Lake is a deep BC Hydro reservoir with kokanee, cutthroat trout and stocked rainbow trout. The trail around the lake is about eight kilometres, which gives you plenty of shoreline to explore for a spot of your own. You can also fish from the dock or the floating bridge, or bring a float tube, stand-up paddleboard or other non-gas-powered vessel.
It is the best choice in this list if you want a mountain-lake feel and a longer day outdoors. The northern end has the dock, picnic tables, a shelter, a boat launch and a dog park.
- Target fish: Rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee
- Best seasons: Spring and fall for stocked trout
- Rules to check: No powered boats; trout and kokanee daily limits apply
- Good to know: Dogs allowed in designated areas
Sasamat Lake Fishing, Belcarra
Sasamat Lake sits inside Belcarra Regional Park and is listed in Lower Mainland lake guides for coastal cutthroat trout and rainbow trout. It is far better known for swimming at White Pine Beach, so fish early in the morning or outside the busy summer weekends.
Park rules and designated swimming areas change by season, so confirm where angling is allowed before you set up.
- Target fish: Coastal cutthroat trout, rainbow trout
- Best seasons: Early morning, spring and fall
- Good to know: Busy with swimmers in summer
Mike Lake Fishing, Maple Ridge
Mike Lake lies inside Golden Ears Provincial Park, about 11 kilometres north of Maple Ridge. A small fishing dock is the main place to cast, and space is limited, so go early if you want it to yourself. A trail loops the lake, but there are no suitable shore spots for fishing.
The lake is stocked with rainbow trout in spring and fall. The road in is gravel but passable for a regular car, and ParkBus runs a public transit option from Vancouver to Golden Ears.
- Target fish: Stocked rainbow trout
- Best seasons: Spring and fall
- Rules to check: No powered boats; trout daily limit applies
- Good to know: Toilets and picnic tables on site; dogs allowed

Alouette Lake Fishing, Maple Ridge
Alouette Lake is the big mountain lake in Golden Ears Provincial Park, and it suits anglers who want a bigger body of water than the small urban lakes. The scenery is the main draw, with forested ridges all around and plenty of beach and trail access.
Species, gear rules and boat restrictions on large reservoirs are more detailed than on small stocked lakes, so check the current Region 2 listing in the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis before you cast. Pair the trip with Mike Lake, which is nearby.
- Best seasons: Spring to fall
- Rules to check: Region 2 regulations and park rules
- Good to know: Large lake with weather that can change quickly
Best Rivers for Salmon and Sturgeon Fishing Near Vancouver
River fishing near Vancouver is more technical than lake fishing, but it offers bigger fish and more variety. Salmon runs on the Capilano, steelhead on the Pitt and huge white sturgeon on the Fraser are the headline catches. Check the current notices from Fisheries and Oceans Canada for salmon openings and the Region 2 synopsis for freshwater rules.

Capilano River and Hatchery Fishing, North Vancouver
The Capilano River is the best place to try salmon fishing close to downtown Vancouver. A unique run of coho enters the river in mid to late May, and chinook, chum and pink salmon also use the river, along with small returns of winter-run and summer-run steelhead. All steelhead must be released.
Deep pools in the canyon near the Capilano River Hatchery are popular spots, but the rocks are slippery and water levels can change quickly, so take extra care. With a tidal licence, the saltwater flats near the river mouth also fish well. The hatchery, run by Fisheries and Oceans Canada, supports sustainable coho and chinook fisheries in Burrard Inlet and is worth a stop even if the fish are not biting. See the full Capilano River Regional Park guide for trails and viewpoints.
- Target fish: Coho, chinook, chum, pink salmon, steelhead (catch and release)
- Best seasons: Coho from mid to late May; check salmon notices for other runs
- Access: Capilano Park Road to the hatchery and river trails
- Good to know: Toilets, shelter and picnic tables at the hatchery
Gilbert Beach Pier and South Arm Dyke Fishing, Richmond
A municipal pier juts into the Fraser River at Gilbert Beach, beside the South Arm Dyke Trail at the foot of No. 2 Road, just east of Steveston harbour. It is a simple, local spot for fishing the main arm of the Fraser without a boat.
The lower Fraser at Richmond is tidal, so you need a tidal waters sport fishing licence rather than a freshwater licence. Watch the current and tide, since the river moves fast around the change of tide.
- Target fish: Salmon in season, plus river and estuary fish
- Licence: Tidal waters licence from Fisheries and Oceans Canada
- Good to know: Combine with a dyke trail walk toward Steveston

Garry Point Park Fishing, Richmond
Garry Point Park sits at the mouth of the Fraser River beside Steveston and is one of the most productive fishing spots in Richmond. Rocky bays and inshore beaches surround the point, and fishing close to the rocks with a float can work better than throwing a heavy bait into the fast water.
Salmon migrating up the river are often visible from the shore here, although sockeye are very hard to catch from land. The park is in Fisheries and Oceans Canada Area 29 and needs a tidal licence. It is also a fantastic place for kites, sunsets and fish and chips afterward.
- Target fish: Salmon in season and other estuary species
- Licence: Tidal waters licence, Area 29
- Good to know: Parking lot close to the shoreline and the Steveston village shops
Fraser River White Sturgeon Fishing, Richmond to Fort Langley
The lower Fraser River holds the only recreational white sturgeon fishery in British Columbia, and it is catch and release only. Sturgeon can be huge, so most visitors book a guide. Fishing on the lower Fraser is open year-round, with March to November generally the most productive months.
Anglers must use a single barbless hook and keep sturgeon in the water, since pulling a large fish out can injure it. In the non-tidal section you need a White Sturgeon Conservation Licence on top of your basic freshwater licence, and tidal sections downstream need a tidal licence. Fort Langley makes a good base, and our Fort Langley guide shows what else to do in the village.
- Target fish: White sturgeon (catch and release only)
- Best seasons: March to November
- Rules: Single barbless hook, keep fish in the water, follow the official sturgeon guidelines
- Good to know: A guide is strongly recommended for first timers
Pitt River Fishing, Pitt Meadows
The upper Pitt River is one of the best steelhead rivers in the Lower Mainland, and the fishery is strictly catch and release. Fly anglers working barbless lures are a common sight. A provincial freshwater licence is required on this section.
This is a spot for experienced river anglers, since access, closures and gear rules are strict and change often. Read the Region 2 regulations before you go.
- Target fish: Steelhead (catch and release only)
- Licence: Provincial freshwater licence
- Good to know: Check closures and gear restrictions in the synopsis
Best Piers and Saltwater Fishing Spots in Vancouver
Piers are the easiest way to fish saltwater around Vancouver without a boat. A tidal waters sport fishing licence is required, and common catches are perch, flounder and other bottom fish, plus Red Rock and Dungeness crab in season. Rockfish and lingcod are often closed for recreational fishing, so check current notices before you target them. Crab traps are not allowed in English Bay or between the Second Narrows Bridge and the Burrard Bridge.

White Rock Pier Fishing, White Rock
White Rock Pier is the longest wooden pier in Canada, stretching roughly half a kilometre into Semiahmoo Bay. That length lets you reach deeper water without a boat, so it is a great place to try for perch, flounder and crab while looking across the bay to Mount Baker.
Spring and summer are generally the best seasons because the water is warmer. For crabbing, aim for the incoming tide in summer. The pier is busy on sunny weekends, so go early to claim a spot along the rail. See the White Rock guide for beach and restaurant ideas.
- Target fish: Perch, flounder, crab
- Best seasons: Spring and summer; crabbing is best in summer
- Licence: Tidal waters licence
- Good to know: Pier is open to walkers too, so keep lines tidy

Jericho Pier Fishing, Vancouver
The pier in front of the Jericho Sailing Centre is a local favourite for perch, other bottom fish and Red Rock crab. It reaches far enough into Burrard Inlet to give crabbers a fair chance, and the beach, grass and city views make it a pleasant place to spend a few hours.
Keep in mind that crab traps are not allowed in English Bay or between the Second Narrows Bridge and the Burrard Bridge, but Jericho is outside that restricted stretch. Check current notices and gear rules before you drop a trap.
- Target fish: Perch, bottom fish, Red Rock crab
- Licence: Tidal waters licence
- Good to know: Check the posted closures and crab regulations
Ambleside Pier Fishing, West Vancouver
Ambleside Pier has views of the Lions Gate Bridge and Stanley Park, and it is one of the busiest crabbing piers in Metro Vancouver, especially for Red Rock crab. Anglers also use the pier for perch and other bottom fish.
From July to September, Ambleside Beach and the Capilano River mouth can produce chinook, coho and pink salmon from shore. Check Fisheries and Oceans Canada notices for the current salmon rules, since openings change from year to year.
- Target fish: Perch, bottom fish, Red Rock crab, salmon from shore in season
- Licence: Tidal waters licence
- Good to know: Walkable seawall, cafes and parking close by
Dundarave Pier Fishing, West Vancouver
Dundarave Pier is a little west of Ambleside and usually quieter. It extends into Burrard Inlet over clear, rocky-bottom water that attracts Red Rock crab, so it is a solid backup when the main piers are crowded.
- Target fish: Red Rock crab, bottom fish
- Licence: Tidal waters licence
- Good to know: Smaller crowds than Ambleside

Iona Beach Regional Park Fishing, Richmond
Iona Beach Regional Park is a long sandy beach and a natural fit for crabbing and shore fishing on the Strait of Georgia side of Richmond. Local crabbing guides list Iona among the Metro Vancouver spots with deeper water within casting distance.
The park is also a major birding area, so pair a fishing trip with the bird watching guide. Check access, closures and current rules on the Metro Vancouver Regional Parks site before you go.
- Target fish: Crab, shore species
- Licence: Tidal waters licence
- Good to know: Wide open beach with weather exposure; bring layers

Rocky Point Pier Fishing, Port Moody
Rocky Point Recreational Pier in Port Moody is one of the better crab trap spots in the Tri-Cities. The pier reaches into the sheltered waters of Burrard Inlet, and the park around it has picnic shelters, food carts and a spray park for kids.
If you want to fish and paddle on the same day, the Rocky Point kayak rental is next to the pier. The full Rocky Point Park guide covers parking and amenities.
- Target fish: Crab, bottom fish
- Licence: Tidal waters licence
- Good to know: Family friendly park with food options nearby
Belcarra Regional Park Pier Fishing, Belcarra
The dock at Belcarra Regional Park is one of the best crabbing spots in Metro Vancouver. It is tucked inside Indian Arm, where calm water and deeper channels produce Red Rock and Dungeness crab. Anglers and crabbers also use the dock for casual line fishing.
The drive in is long and parking is limited on summer weekends, so arrive early.
- Target fish: Red Rock and Dungeness crab, bottom fish
- Licence: Tidal waters licence
- Good to know: Calm water and forest views
Barnet Marine Park Fishing, Burnaby
Barnet Marine Park in Burnaby has a pier over deep water on Burrard Inlet and is a regular stop for local crabbers. It is a good alternative on the south shore of the inlet when the Vancouver piers are busy.
- Target fish: Crab, bottom fish
- Licence: Tidal waters licence
- Good to know: Beach and picnic areas close by
Cates Park Fishing, North Vancouver
Cates Park (Whey-ah-Wichen) is a beach park on Burrard Inlet that appears on most local lists of crabbing spots. The shoreline is quiet and scenic, with picnic areas and forest trails behind the beach.
- Target fish: Crab, shore fishing
- Licence: Tidal waters licence
- Good to know: Combine with a waterfront walk

Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf, Richmond
Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf is a working commercial dock, so treat it as a place to see the fishing industry rather than a place to cast. It is the best stop in Metro Vancouver if you want to see the fleet, learn about the local seafood heritage and pick up fresh fish and prawns when boats are selling.
Add the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site and a plate of fish and chips at Pajo’s for a complete fishing-themed day. See the Steveston Village guide for the full route.
- Best for: Fishing culture and fresh seafood, not angling
- Good to know: Please keep clear of working boats and gear
Fishing Charters and Guided Trips in Vancouver
If you are new to saltwater fishing or visiting from out of town, a guided trip removes most of the guesswork. Guides know where fish are holding and how to handle gear, tides and licences.
Granville Island Fishing Charters, Vancouver
If you want the best chance of catching salmon, book a guided charter. Operators such as Chromer Sport Fishing and Pacific Angler Fishing Charters leave from Granville Island, which means you can start a fishing trip from the middle of the city. Guides handle gear, licence guidance and the best fishing spots, which makes charters a good choice for visitors.
Fly fishing trips are also offered by guides including Chromer Sport Fishing and Great River Fishing. Pair a charter with a visit to Granville Island and its Public Market for a seafood lunch.
- Best for: Salmon trips, first-time ocean anglers, visitors
- Good to know: Book ahead; confirm licences and gear with the operator

Sewell’s Marina and Horseshoe Bay Fishing, West Vancouver
Horseshoe Bay is the launch point for saltwater fishing in Howe Sound and the Strait of Georgia. There is a public boat launch beside the BC Ferries terminal, and Sewell’s Marina offers self-drive boat rentals and guided salmon charters.
It is also a handy base if you are catching a ferry, since you can fit in a half-day trip before crossing.
- Best for: Boat rentals, salmon charters, Howe Sound trips
- Good to know: Check tides, weather and marine forecasts before leaving the dock
Day Trip Fishing Near Vancouver
A few of the best fishing lakes are a short drive outside Metro Vancouver and make good full-day trips.

Cultus Lake Fishing, Chilliwack
Cultus Lake in Chilliwack is outside Metro Vancouver but is one of the most popular lake day trips from the city. It is a large lake with boating, swimming and a provincial park setting. Fishing rules for a big lake differ from small stocked urban lakes, so check species and gear rules in the Region 2 section of the synopsis.
See the full Cultus Lake guide for beaches, trails and what to bring.
- Best for: Full-day trip with swimming, boating and fishing
- Good to know: Check the synopsis for the lake before you go
What Fish Can You Catch Near Vancouver?
- Rainbow trout: Rice Lake, Como Lake, Lafarge Lake, Green Timbers Lake, Deer Lake, Buntzen Lake and Mike Lake
- Cutthroat trout and kokanee: Buntzen Lake and Como Lake
- Carp: Deer Lake, Como Lake, Lafarge Lake and Green Timbers Lake
- Salmon: Capilano River, Garry Point Park, Ambleside Beach and guided charters from Granville Island and Horseshoe Bay
- Steelhead (catch and release): Capilano River and the upper Pitt River
- White sturgeon (catch and release): Lower Fraser River
- Perch and flounder: White Rock Pier, Jericho Pier and Ambleside Pier
- Crab: Jericho Pier, Ambleside Pier, Dundarave Pier, White Rock Pier, Rocky Point Pier, Belcarra Regional Park and Cates Park
Best Time of Year to Go Fishing in Vancouver
- Spring: Stocked trout lakes are at their best, and coho begin entering the Capilano River in mid to late May.
- Summer: Pier fishing and crabbing are strongest, while shallow lakes such as Lafarge warm up and the bite slows. Fish early in the morning.
- Fall: A second round of trout stocking makes fall one of the best seasons for lake fishing, and salmon runs peak on local rivers.
- Winter: Lower elevation lakes seldom ice over, so trout fishing continues, and Fraser River sturgeon fishing remains open year-round.
Beginner Fishing Gear and Bait for Vancouver Lakes
For stocked rainbow trout at lakes like Rice Lake and Como Lake, the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC suggests a simple, light setup. A light spinning rod and reel with 6-pound monofilament line and size 6 hooks works well, along with a bobber and split-shot weights to hold bait down.
- Bait: Dew worms are a trout favourite. Shrimp, canned corn and artificial PowerBait also work.
- Lures: Small spoons or spinners weighing 1/8 ounce or less suit catchable-sized trout.
- Rod loan: Green Timbers Lake in Surrey lends rods through the Surrey Nature Centre, and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC runs a rod loan program for beginners.
Family Fishing in Metro Vancouver
Fishing is one of the easiest ways to get kids outdoors, and several lakes in Metro Vancouver are designed for it. Rice Lake has an accessible dock and smooth trails, Como Lake pairs two fishing piers with a playground, Lafarge Lake has a paved pathway and SkyTrain access, and Green Timbers Lake lets families borrow gear. The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC map lets you filter lakes by access and amenities.
For more outdoor ideas, see our guides to the best lakes near Vancouver, best places to kayak and easy walks in Metro Vancouver.
Fishing Safety, Etiquette and Conservation in Metro Vancouver
- Know the rules: Check daily limits, gear rules and closures in the official synopsis and Fisheries and Oceans Canada notices.
- Clean, Drain, Dry: Clean and dry boats and gear between water bodies to stop the spread of invasive species.
- Handle fish with care: Keep fish in the water as much as possible, use barbless hooks where required and release fish quickly.
- Watch the water: River levels, tides and slippery rocks cause most problems for shore anglers, especially at the Capilano River and Fraser River.
- Share the space: Piers and docks are shared with walkers and other anglers, so keep lines tidy and clean up after yourself.
Vancouver Fishing FAQ
Where is the best place to fish in Vancouver?
For beginners, the best fishing spots in Vancouver are Rice Lake in North Vancouver, Como Lake in Coquitlam and Deer Lake in Burnaby for stocked rainbow trout. For saltwater, White Rock Pier and the piers at Jericho, Ambleside and Rocky Point are popular. For salmon, try the Capilano River, and for sturgeon, book a guide on the lower Fraser River.
Do you need a licence to fish in Vancouver?
Yes. Anglers aged 16 and older need a basic freshwater fishing licence for lakes and non-tidal rivers, bought through the provincial WILD system with a free Fish and Wildlife ID. Saltwater piers and tidal rivers such as the lower Fraser need a tidal waters sport fishing licence from Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Freshwater licences do not cover tidal waters.
Where can you fish for salmon near Vancouver?
The Capilano River in North Vancouver is the best-known place to fish for salmon near downtown, with coho arriving in mid to late May and other species later in the year. Garry Point Park in Richmond and Ambleside Beach in West Vancouver also see salmon in season, and charters leave from Granville Island and Horseshoe Bay. Always check current Fisheries and Oceans Canada notices for openings.
Can you fish from piers in Vancouver?
Yes. White Rock Pier, Jericho Pier, Ambleside Pier, Dundarave Pier, Rocky Point Pier and the dock at Belcarra Regional Park are all used for fishing and crabbing. A tidal waters sport fishing licence is required at every saltwater pier.
What fish can you catch in lakes near Vancouver?
Most urban lakes near Vancouver are stocked with rainbow trout in spring and fall. Depending on the lake you may also catch cutthroat trout, kokanee, carp, catfish, bullhead and sunfish.
When are Vancouver lakes stocked with trout?
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC stocks popular lakes such as Rice Lake, Como Lake, Lafarge Lake, Green Timbers Lake and Mike Lake in spring and fall. You can check the current stocking reports on the society’s website, and fishing is usually best within a week or two after a stocking.
Where can kids and beginners fish near Vancouver?
Rice Lake has a wheelchair-accessible dock, Como Lake has two piers and a playground, Lafarge Lake is next to a SkyTrain station, and Green Timbers Lake in Surrey has a rod loan program through the Surrey Nature Centre. These are the easiest places to teach children to fish.
Can you go crabbing from piers around Vancouver?
Yes. Popular crabbing spots include Jericho Pier, Ambleside Pier, Dundarave Pier, White Rock Pier, Rocky Point Pier, Belcarra Regional Park and Cates Park. You need a tidal waters sport fishing licence, and traps are not allowed in English Bay or between the Second Narrows Bridge and the Burrard Bridge. Check current size and daily limits before you go.
Is sturgeon fishing allowed on the Fraser River?
Yes, but it is catch and release only. Anglers must use a single barbless hook and keep sturgeon in the water. In non-tidal sections you also need a White Sturgeon Conservation Licence on top of your freshwater licence. Most visitors hire a guide.
What is the best time of year to fish in Metro Vancouver?
Spring and fall are the best seasons for stocked trout lakes. Piers and crabbing are best in spring and summer. Coho start entering the Capilano River in mid to late May, and white sturgeon fishing is generally best from March to November.
Plan more time outdoors in Metro Vancouver
Pair your fishing trip with our best lakes near Vancouver, best beaches in Vancouver and the full activities guide.