Foley Lake, Chilliwack
By Rodney Hsu
Foley Lake is a small lake in the Upper Chilliwack River Valley. It is best fished from a float tube or small boat as shore access is quite limited at this waterbody. Two species of fish, rainbow trout and bull trout, are most commonly encountered. It is an ideal fishery for those who are interested in getting away in a small boat for a day trip without having to travel too far.
How to Get There?
Foley Lake takes approximately 1.5 hours from Vancouver by a vehicle. To get there, simply travel on Highway 1 to Chilliwack, exit at Vedder Road. Continue south on Vedder Road and turn left onto Chilliwack Lake Road. Drive along Chilliwack Lake Road, which runs along Chilliwack River. Once you drive by the Chilliwack Salmon Hatchery, look for the turnoff to Foley Creek Forest Service Road on your left. Travel along this forest service road for ten to fifteen minutes and you should find Foley Lake on your left.
Fishing Season
The fishing season for Foley Lake starts in early spring and ends around October. Fishing is best in the evenings during summer months when daytime temperature becomes quite high.
Fishing Techniques
While you can definitely cast a float and piece of worm out from shore, anglers have more success by fishing from a float tube, pontoon boat or canoe at Foley Lake. You can cast and retrieve a small spoon or spinner, which works for both rainbow trout and bull trout. If you intend to fly fish, then look for insect activities. In early spring and late fall, try focusing on fishing near the bottom in deeper water, where fish are most likely found. As the weather warms up in the summer, you are more likely to entice them with a dry fly in the evening once the lake becomes shaded.
Important Notes
Before your first fishing trip to Foley Lake, please make sure you know the following information:
- You must have a valid British Columbia freshwater fishing license.
- Foley Lake is located in Region 2 in the British Columbia freshwater fishing regulations.
- Please respect other users along the forest service road. This is a small, sensitive lake so extra care is needed. Please do not litter.
- It is best to plan your trips to this lake on weekdays, or weekends early or late in the season. Heavy usage often takes place in this area during long weekends and summer holidays so you should avoid those periods.
