Lower Pitt River, Grant Narrows to Pitt River Bridge
By Rodney Hsu
Wedged between Coquitlam and Pitt Meadows, the Lower Pitt River is a large Lower Fraser tributary, which offers fishing opportunities for salmon, anadromous trout and white sturgeon.
How to Get There?
There are many spots where anglers can access along the Lower Pitt River. This can be done from either Coquitlam along the west side or Pitt Meadows along the east side of the river. In Coquitlam, there is a dyke that runs along the river from Pitt River Bridge to the edge of Pitt-Addington Marsh Wildlife Management Area. Access to this gravel path can be done from Dominion Avenue, Prairie Avenue and the mouth of DeBoville Slough. In Pitt Meadows, there is also a dyke that runs along the entire river. Access can be done near the mouth of Alouette River, the end of Harris Road, the mouth of Sturgeon Slough and Grant Narrows Regional Park.
Fishing Season
Fishing can be done year-round in the Lower Pitt River, but the best time is usually between March and November. Trout and char fishing can be excellent during spring months before freshet. Salmon fishing is best from September to November.
Fishing Techniques
You can use a variety of fishing techniques to target fish in the Lower Pitt River. These techniques are very similar to what you would use in the Tidal Fraser River. Bottom fishing with bait can be productive for all species. Casting and retrieving small lures often works for trout, char and northern pikeminnow. During the salmon fishing season, casting spoons and spinners is also a good method for coho and pink salmon. Fly fishing opportunities are also widely available due to the flat and open terrain.
Two key points you should focus on when fishing in this area - the tide and location. Incoming tide is definitely best as it pushes fresh fish into the system. Don't neglect the period just after the tide peaks. A slow outgoing tide can bring juvenile salmonid downstream, which can trigger a feeding frenzy among trout and char. Try finding spots where fish have a tendency to take refuge. Creek and slough mouths are good places to start.
Important Notes
Before your first fishing trip to Lower Pitt River, please make sure you know the following information:
- You must have a valid British Columbia freshwater fishing licence if you are fishing upstream from the CPR Bridge. You must have a valid British Columbia tidal fishing licence if you are fishing downstream from the CPR Bridge.
- Pitt River is located in Region 2 in the British Columbia freshwater fishing regulations. The regulations are often different from one season to another, so please check them before your trip.
