Local
Fishing Guru, Ellery Haffner, stayed in The Fifth Estate
in September, 2007.
The following are his word-for-word notes...
Gallagher
Lake & Local Area Fishing
This
gem of a lake lies in the heart of the best bass fishing
in BC. Gallagher is a deep, bowl-shaped lake nestled among
Ponderosa pine and sheltered by sheer cliffs. Both large
and smallmouth bass inhabit the lake and are plentiful in
numbers. The healthy population of fish ranges in size from
juveniles to hefty 6+ lb monsters. Regardless of size, anglers
can expect a spirited fight from these aggressive predators.
Novice and seasoned anglers can fish from shore or in the
supplied kayaks or canoe. Bass are a warm water species,
expect excellent fishing opportunities from spring thru late
fall.
Bass tend to lurk in underwater structure
such as weed beds, boulders and logs. Sight fishing can be
highly productive; polarized sunglasses are an invaluable
tool.
Gear
selection is not critical, but a sturdy rod and reel are
suggested. Trout enthusiasts are often surprised by the
size of lure used for bass fishing. Soft plastic baits
remain the most popular lure of choice, ranging in size
from three to eight inches.
The
Texas rig and tube jig are easy to master and provide excellent
results. Proven colours are pearl, root beer, watermelon
and chartreuse. In addition, lures such as crankbaits and
spinners will yield some very nice results. Fly fishers
should try extra large flies
and poppers.
Within minutes of Gallagher Lake
are numerous fishing alternatives. Vaseux Lake is home to
an exceptionally good bass fishery. The Okanagan River can
produce fine rainbow trout and smallmouth bass. Sawmill Lake
is a catch and release fishery (fly only) and has rainbows
to 6 lbs. With over 10 lakes within a 1 hour drive, local
fishing opportunities are excellent and can be enjoyed throughout
the year. See the current BC Fresh Water Sport Fishing Regulations
for water specific restrictions.
Licences, tackle, bait and reliable
local fishing advice are available at the Oliver Home Hardware
in Oliver.
