2010.02.25 Lower Elevation Lakes May be Ice Free Soon
by Mr BFSH
(Kamloops)
Outlet End of Morgan Lake Looking West
I took a trip out a few of the local lower elevation lakes and in my estimation, if the warmer than normal weather that we have been experiencing prevails, there should be some open water to cast a fly before the middle of March.
As you probably know, the provincial regulation regarding season openings has changed for most lakes. Where, in the past, many lakes had a specified opening and closing date (eg: May 1 to Nov 30), most of these lakes no have changed to "no ice fishing". So, whether it's Mar 16th or Dec 5th, if there is open water, the lake can be fished. There may be some lakes that still have past or other restrictions so it is in your best interest to confirm any regulation questions at the BC Fishing Regulations site.
I first tried to stop at Jacko Lake but the gate was closed and locked... obviously they are not ready to let people in there but it is one of the lakes where the new "no ice fishing" regulation applies.
I also wandered up to Six Mile Lake and Morgan Lake (new reg applies here too) above the fabulous Tobiano Golf Course on Kamloops Lake. Both of these lakes tend to thaw earlier than Jacko Lake and they still had ice on them although all the snow was gone and there was some small patches of open water at the outlet end of Morgan and the inlet of end Six Mile as well as both lakes had some thawing along the edges around the entire lake. Looking a little closer at the ice (I tested it with some skookum boulders but could not break through), it still appears to be 5"-6" thick. Like I said, another 7-14 days and we could be fishing either of these lakes.
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