Chilliwack Fraser River Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
River Fishing
Target legendary White Sturgeon and multiple Salmon species on Fraser RiverFourhour guided expedition includes all essential fishing tackle and equipmentSmall group experience accommodates maximum two guests per trip
When you're looking for a solid half-day fishing trip that delivers both scenery and serious fish, Johnny's Sport Fishing has you covered on the Fraser River. This four-hour adventure puts you right in the heart of some of British Columbia's most productive fishing waters, where White Sturgeon grow to legendary sizes and multiple salmon species make their runs throughout the season. With space for just two anglers, you get personalized attention and plenty of room to work your lines without feeling crowded.
Your morning starts early on the Fraser River, where the current runs strong and the fish are active. Johnny's provides all the heavy-duty tackle you'll need – and trust me, you want the good stuff when you're targeting sturgeon that can stretch over six feet long. The boat setup is designed for serious angling, with rod holders positioned for optimal line management and a fish-friendly deck for safe releases. You'll be drifting prime holding spots and anchoring up in the deeper holes where these prehistoric giants like to hang out. The Fraser's murky water might not look like much, but it's loaded with baitfish and creates perfect hunting conditions for both sturgeon and salmon. Pack your own snacks and drinks since meals aren't included, but don't forget that valid BC fishing license – it's mandatory and strictly enforced on these waters.
We're talking heavy bottom fishing here, using circle hooks and fresh bait to entice those big sturgeon off the river floor. The guides know exactly where to position the boat based on tide, current, and recent fish activity. You'll be using sturgeon-specific rigs with enough weight to hold bottom in the Fraser's strong current, typically fishing in 20 to 40 feet of water depending on the season. For salmon, we switch up to lighter tackle with spoons, spinners, and sometimes fresh roe when the timing is right. The key is reading the water and adjusting your presentation as conditions change throughout the day. These aren't your typical lake fishing techniques – the Fraser demands respect and proper gear to handle fish that can easily break light tackle.
White Sturgeon are the main attraction here, and for good reason. These living dinosaurs can live over 100 years and reach massive proportions in the Fraser River system. Most fish you'll encounter range from three to six feet, but the occasional monster over eight feet still cruises these waters. They're bottom feeders with an excellent sense of smell, which is why fresh bait and proper scent control make such a difference. Spring through fall offers the best action, with cooler morning temperatures often producing the most aggressive feeding. Landing one of these giants is a genuine accomplishment that'll have you talking for years.
Chinook Salmon, locally called "Kings," are the heavyweights of the salmon world and absolute powerhouse fighters. These fish return to the Fraser system from late spring through early fall, with peak runs varying by specific tributary. A typical Fraser Chinook might weigh 15 to 30 pounds, but 40-pounders show up often enough to keep things interesting. They're aggressive feeders and known for long, powerful runs that test your drag system and arm strength. The combination of size, strength, and acrobatic ability makes Chinook a favorite target for serious salmon anglers.
Coho Salmon bring a different kind of excitement to your fishing day. These silver bullets are incredibly acrobatic, often jumping multiple times during the fight and making sudden direction changes that keep you on your toes. They typically run smaller than Chinook, averaging 8 to 12 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in pure energy. Coho are also excellent table fare, with firm, flavorful meat that's perfect for the grill. Their runs peak in late summer and early fall, coinciding perfectly with some of the Fraser's best weather conditions.
Green Sturgeon are the Fraser River's other prehistoric residents, though they're less common than their white cousins. These fish are distinguished by their olive-green coloration and more pointed snout. They're typically smaller than White Sturgeon but still impressive fighters that can surprise you with their strength. Green Sturgeon are anadromous, meaning they split time between fresh and salt water, which gives them a unique fighting style that combines river wisdom with ocean power. Catching one is considered a special treat among local anglers.
This half-day Fraser River adventure delivers exactly what serious anglers want: access to world-class fishing with expert local knowledge and proper equipment. Whether you're after that photo-worthy sturgeon or hoping to fill the cooler with fresh salmon, Johnny's Sport Fishing puts you in the right spots at the right times. The two-person capacity means you won't be fighting for space or attention, and the four-hour window gives you enough time to really work the water without feeling rushed. Don't wait until peak season to book – the best dates fill up fast, especially during prime salmon runs. Grab your fishing license, pack some food and drinks, and get ready for some of the Fraser River's finest fishing action.
Your fishing adventure on the Fraser River starts aboard our 2019 Northwest jet boat – a 22-foot powerhouse built for serious angling. This beauty runs on a beefy 429HP Chevy engine that'll get you to the best fishing spots at speeds up to 35 knots, cutting through the current like butter. The spacious deck gives you and one other angler plenty of room to work your lines without bumping elbows. When those legendary White Sturgeon start biting, you'll appreciate having the space to fight these river giants properly. The onboard fish finder takes the guesswork out of locating schools of salmon, while the GPS keeps us on track to the hottest spots along the Fraser. Between casts, keep your refreshments ice-cold in the built-in icebox – nothing beats a cold drink after battling a monster fish in the BC sun. The jet propulsion system means we can navigate shallow waters and rocky areas where the big ones like to hide, giving you access to prime fishing territory that other boats simply can't reach. This setup handles the Fraser River's changing conditions with ease, whether we're drifting for salmon or anchored up waiting for sturgeon to take the bait. It's the perfect platform for landing your next trophy fish.
Oncorhynchus TshawytschaThe king of salmon, chinooks are the largest of the Pacific salmon family, averaging 15-30 pounds in our waters. These powerful fish stay deep during bright conditions, hugging bottom structure in the main river channels. Early morning and evening hours produce the best action, especially during fall runs. What sets them apart is their incredible strength and that rich, orange-pink meat that's hard to beat on the dinner table. They're light-sensitive, so expect to fish deeper water with weighted presentations. Local secret: when trolling, use a large plug or spoon in blue and chartreuse on bright days. These colors stand out in deeper water and trigger aggressive strikes from territorial spawners.
Oncorhynchus KisutchSilver bullets that pack serious fight, coho salmon average 8-12 pounds but can jump six feet out of the water when hooked. These acrobatic fish prefer calmer waters near cover like fallen trees and undercut banks. Fall runs from September through November provide the best fishing as they move upstream to spawn. Their bright orange-red meat makes them top table fare, and their aggressive strikes keep things exciting. Coho are known for their aerial displays - they'll tail-walk and cartwheel like no other salmon. Pro tip: when they're holding in deeper pools, try twitching a jig with a long tail through the water column. The erratic action triggers strikes from even sluggish fish.
Acipenser MedirostrisThe olive-colored cousin to white sturgeon, green sturgeon are smaller but still impressive fish reaching 4-6 feet. They're bottom dwellers that prefer deeper water up to 200 feet, using their shovel-shaped snouts to dig for crabs and shrimp. Late spring to early summer is prime time when they move into river systems to spawn. These "living fossils" have been around since dinosaur times, making every catch feel historic. Note that green sturgeon must be released immediately if caught - they're protected due to declining populations. When targeting them accidentally while sturgeon fishing, use the same heavy tackle. Quick tip: if you hook one, handle it gently with thick gloves and get it back in the water fast.
Acipenser TransmontanusNorth America's largest freshwater fish, these prehistoric giants can live over 100 years and reach massive sizes - the Fraser River record was over 1,100 pounds! White sturgeon spend most of their time in deeper holes and channels, feeding along the bottom with their vacuum-like mouths. Spring through fall offers the best action when they're most active. What makes them special is their gentle bite - they'll mouth your bait for ages before committing. Guests love the anticipation and raw power once hooked. Here's the key: when you feel that first light tap, resist the urge to set immediately. Let them take it and run before you strike - patience pays off with these ancient fish.
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