A Shuswap Gem for the Dedicated Trout Angler
Tucked away in the rolling landscape near Turtle Valley, a short drive from Salmon Arm and Chase, lies Skimikin Lake—a destination that holds a special place in the hearts of local and visiting anglers. While it may not have the sprawling size of Shuswap Lake, Skimikin offers a classic and rewarding British Columbia interior fishing experience. Known for its healthy population of hard-fighting Rainbow Trout and its serene, natural setting, this lake is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with the quieter side of the Shuswap fishing scene.
A Fishery with a Special Purpose
What sets Skimikin Lake apart is its role as a broodstock lake for the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. This means that at certain times of the year, fisheries staff collect mature, healthy Rainbow Trout from the lake to support the stocking program in other lakes across the province. For anglers, this is fantastic news. It means the lake is managed for high-quality fish, offering the chance to encounter robust, genetically strong trout that can reach impressive sizes. While the lake operates under a “catch and release” ethos to protect this valuable resource, a modest daily quota allows anglers to take home a couple of fish for a fresh dinner.
The Skimikin Lake Experience
The journey to Skimikin Lake is part of the adventure. Accessed via the Skimikin Lake Forestry Road, the drive takes you through the scenic ranchlands and forests of the Shuswap interior. The road is typically well-maintained but can have rough sections, so drivers should proceed with caution.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a beautiful, medium-sized lake surrounded by a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees. The BC Recreation Site on the eastern shore offers rustic campsites, a day-use area, and, most importantly for anglers, a cartop boat launch. The launch is best suited for small fishing boats, pontoons, and kayaks. The lake is ideal for these smaller vessels, allowing for a peaceful experience without the wake and noise of larger powerboats.
Gearing Up for Skimikin’s Rainbows
The key to success on Skimikin is versatility. The trout in this productive lake respond to a variety of techniques, and what works one day might not the next.
Fly Fishing: Skimikin is a paradise for the stillwater fly angler. The lake boasts a rich ecosystem teeming with aquatic life.
- Chironomid Fishing: This is the quintessential technique for much of the spring and early summer. Fishing chironomid patterns in various sizes and colours (blacks, reds, greens, and chromes are all popular) under a strike indicator is a proven method. Patience is key; finding the right depth is often the secret to success.
- Leech and Micro-Leech Patterns: A slowly retrieved leech pattern is effective throughout the open water season. Black, maroon, and olive are staple colours. Try fishing them on a floating line with a long leader for a slow, undulating presentation, or on a sinking line to explore deeper sections of the lake.
- Scuds (Freshwater Shrimp): The lake has a healthy scud population, making them a year-round food source. Small, olive or tan scud patterns can be deadly, especially when fished near weed beds.
- Mayfly and Damselfly Hatches: Keep an eye out for hatches, especially on warmer days. Having mayfly and damselfly nymph patterns, as well as some dry flies, can lead to exciting surface action.
Trolling: For those who prefer to cover water with conventional gear, trolling is a highly effective method.
- Small Spoons and Spinners: A classic approach that consistently produces results. Troll small spoons like the Luhr Jensen Krocodile or spinners like the Mepps Aglia. Vary your speed and depth until you find a productive combination.
- Wedding Bands: A popular choice on many interior lakes, a Wedding Band tipped with a worm or a small piece of shrimp can be irresistible to Skimikin’s trout.
- Flies for Trolling: Trolling a fly behind a boat is a simple yet effective technique. Use a full sinking line and troll slowly with patterns like a Woolly Bugger or a larger leech.
A Fishery for All Seasons
Skimikin Lake offers opportunities for anglers throughout the year, with distinct peak periods.
- Spring (Ice-Off to June): This is prime time. As the ice recedes and the water warms, the trout become incredibly active and feed voraciously in the shallows. This is the best window for chironomid fishing.
- Summer (July and August): During the heat of the summer, the trout will often retreat to the cooler, deeper parts of the lake. Anglers will need to adjust their tactics, fishing deeper with sinking lines or trolling with a bit more weight to get their offerings down. Early morning and late evening are the most productive times.
- Fall (September to November): As the water cools, the fish move back into the shallows to feed aggressively before winter. This is another fantastic season for fly anglers and trollers alike.
- Winter (December to March): Once safe ice forms, Skimikin Lake becomes a popular destination for ice fishing. Jigging with small spoons or jigs tipped with bait is the most common method for enticing trout through the ice.
Regulations and Responsible Angling
Before your trip, it is crucial to consult the current British Columbia freshwater fishing regulations for Region 3 (Thompson-Nicola). Key regulations for Skimikin Lake typically include:
- Daily Quota: A daily limit of two Rainbow Trout.
- Engine Power Restriction: The lake has a 7.5 Kw (10 hp) motor restriction, preserving the tranquil atmosphere.
Given its role as a broodstock lake, anglers are encouraged to handle all fish with care. If practicing catch and release, use a net, keep the fish in the water as much as possible, and wet your hands before handling it. Pinching down the barbs on your hooks can also make for a quicker and less stressful release, ensuring the future health of this exceptional Shuswap fishery.
Whether you are a dedicated fly fisher seeking the thrill of a subtle take or a family looking for a beautiful spot to introduce the kids to fishing, Skimikin Lake offers a complete and rewarding Shuswap angling adventure.