Stuart Lake is a large lake found in British Columbia's central interior. It measures over 65 km in length and more than 10 km across in some places, offering some of British Columbia's best freshwater fishing.
Stuart Lake supports a good fishery for kokanee and large rainbow trout up to 5 pounds. Three popular lures for catching big trout are the Coyote by Luhr-Jensen, Gibbs FST, and Williams Wobbler. Dan Moffat from Northern Hardware in Prince George notes that Apex has a new colour line that may work well in Stuart Lake.
Most spots are productive, and around the many islands, there are several drop-off areas that are worthwhile. Anglers may want to try the areas around Honeymoon Island (northeast shore) and Battleship Island (near Whitefish Bay along the south shore). There are several islands in the southeast arm of the lake that would be productive, and around the bays of the north shore and the northwestern arm.
Trolled spoons in red and silver or pearl colour combinations can work well. Remember to troll slowly, varying your speed slightly, and work in "S" curves.
Every Canada Day weekend the Fort St. James Chamber of Commerce hosts a big fishing derby. Call (250)996-7023 for details.
LAKE ACCESS
From Prince George head west along Highway 16 past Vanderhoof until you meet Highway 27. Turn right (north) and follow until you reach the town of Fort St. James.
There are several access points to Stuart Lake, but only three locations are profiled here. All have boat launches and are on the southern shore of Stuart Lake.
Before crossing the Stuart River into Fort St. James (Highway 27), turn left (west) onto Sowchea Road. This road goes past two provincial parks--Paarens Beach and Sowchea Bay. Paarens Beach has a concrete boat launch at the south end of the park, and Sowchea Bay has a single lane concrete boat launch with limited parking.
The third access point is Whitefish Bay recreation site, located about half way up the lake, and is accessible by 2WD. Again, turn onto Sowchea Road and follow for about five km, then turn left (south) onto the Cunningham Forest Service Road. Follow this road for about 40 km, until you meet the Cunningham-Camsell FSR. Turn right (north), and follow it to the shores of Stuart Lake. The Whitefish Bay recreation site is an open site, with boat launch and space for 20 vehicle units.
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Copyright 2011 by The Angler's Atlas
