Campbell Lake - Wildlife Abounds.
by Mr BFSH
Newly Weds... Gettin' Ready for Tubing
When the wind is blowing at Campbell Lake, shelter is at a premium. Such was the case last week when I went fishing with newlyweds, Mike and Mere. Although it was windy, it was a great day to see some wildlife. Just as we were approaching the camping/boat launch area, there was a yearling black bear (rusty brown to be exact) ripping up an ant infested log. Although he left his spot when we stopped, he didn't seem overly concerned about our presence as he sauntered off into the woods. I was going to fish in my boat and the newlyweds geared up for the belly boats. This was to be Mere's first time in a tube and with the strong, stubborn wind from the west, it was going to be a challenge. Actually, she did quite well. Mike stayed along side her for most of the time. I circled around keeping tabs on them but it was really difficult because of the breeze. I was into small fish using a micro-leech about 50m out from the south shore. I was using a dry line with a strike indicator about 16' below the indicator but only fishing about 6' deep while on the troll/drift. Mike and Mere were not as lucky but they were having an easier time handling the wind than I was. After about an hour and a half, I braved heading to the north shore. Mike and Mere followed. I had very little luck over there and Mike landed one fish. While we were on the north shore we saw 4 large birds (they were not eagles or ospreys but they were bigger than hawks) working the low land and the draws. Large black birds with some white on the underside of the winds, I quickly drew the conclusion that these birds were "turkey vultures". They were fascinating to watch and obviously were looking for some carrion. We also saw a huge bald eagle flying quite a bit higher and keeping it's distance from the vultures. That was the first time that I have seen turkey vultures this far north (apparently they have migrated north of Clearwater, BC too). The wind was still howling and I couldn't hold an anchor so we all headed back to the south shore with the intent on going in. I hit and landed 2 fish on the way back and Mike also landed 2 fish... right in front of the boat launch... none of the fish caught during the day exceeded 15", most were 12". Mere got skunked but she did very well in the belly boat and her new waders. She managed to kick across and back as well as handle her fly rod. On the way home met a couple in a small truck at the outlet stream where they were stopped... gazing at a bear. They showed us where it was (up on the hillside about 100 metres away). They also told us of a cub in the area and sure enough, 100m down the road toward Scuitto, there was another yearling sitting on the hillside just above the road. It watched us intently when we stopped to watch. I tried to creep the truck up a little closer but it spooked a bit and ran up the hill behind a tree. Interesting enough, all the bears we saw were a rusty colour... must be related. It was a great day for wildlife viewing but not so great for fishing. I guess, that's the way it goes. Mere will have to wait until next year to catch her first rainbow but she will come back as a veteran in the 'ol float tube. Best-in-British-Columbia Fishing Vacations BlogCampbell and Scuitto LakesKamloops Area LakesFree Solunar TablesFly Fishing Strategies for BC Lakes FishingBC Fishing ResortsRegal Ridge - Acreages for Sale - Osoyoos, BC |
