Island Lake (Big OK)

Island lake has been a favorite fly fishing vacation destination in the Highland Valley for years. Clear waters and huge trout ranks it as one of the best fly fishing lakes in BC.

If Island Lake was a little closer to Kamloops, it would rival Pass Lake and Roche Lake as my favorite fly-fishing lake.

Tucked in behind the Highland Valley Mine west of Logan Lake, Island offers some of the finest fly fishing for trophy rainbows in the area. It's clear waters, shoals and submerged island creates an abundance of prime casting locations. Summer evenings bring the big bruisers up from the depths as they cruise the shallows of the submerged island for active caddis pupae and rise savagely for the emerging adult travelers. Leeches drift across the white marl and bullrush, always in constant danger of being consumed by a savagely feeding Silver Bullet.

Island is a moody lake but when the fishing is 'on' it can be quite spectacular.There are limited rough camping facilities both at the north end of the lake when you first arrive or at the south end of the lake. The last part of the trail into the lake is rather rough and good vehicle clearance is recommended. The access road in from Hwy 97c (Logan Lake - Ashcroft) varies in its location as it is subject to mine activity and can be altered at any time. Consult the mine or the local fly shop in Logan Lake for access directions if you are unsure.

Big Ok Lake is a catch and release, single barbless hook and artificial fly only lake with a limited season. Please consult the current BC Fishing Regulations for details.

Other nearby lakes:

Little OK Lake, Calling Lake, Trojan Pond (private- controlled by the mine; limited seasonal access for a fee/contribution); Tunkwa Lake, Leighton Lake

Accommodations:

There are a few locations for rough camping, both at the north and south ends of the lake. The nearby towns of Logan Lake and Ashcroft provide all the amenities including lodging, food and supplies.There are campgrounds at nearby Tunkwa Lake Provincial Park and Logan Lake.