Angling enthusiasts in the Thompson-Okanagan now have
increased access to prime lake fishing thanks to the installation of new
docks at two popular lakes in the region.

The two new docks, made possible under the Province’s Small Lake Urban
Enhancement Program, provide enhanced access to fishing for kids and
seniors and those who do not own a boat. Both docks are on lakes that
provide great fishing opportunities relatively close to urban centres.

One dock is on the north side of Yellow Lake, between Keremeos and
Penticton, in an area used as a rest-stop along Highway 3A. Yellow Lake
is a year-round fishing destination used heavily by anglers in the summer
and winter seasons. The lake is stocked annually with 15,000 rainbow
trout, 10,000 eastern brook trout and 5,000 kokanee by the Freshwater
Fisheries Society of BC. Anglers will also find yellow perch.

The second dock, on the southwest side of Edith Lake, is approximately 18
kilometres south of Kamloops. Edith Lake also provides year-round fishing
and is stocked annually with 5,500 rainbow trout and 4,500 eastern brook
trout by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Both projects were supported by funding from the Habitat Conservation
Trust Fund and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. Each dock
installation cost approximately $20,000. The Province provided in-kind
contributions, primarily logistical support to both projects.

Volunteers also participated and provided support. At Yellow Lake, the
Penticton Flyfishers Club, and at Edith Lake, the Kamloops Fish & Game
Club, assisted with dock installation and have both agreed to take care
of any future maintenance of each dock.

The Small Lake Urban Enhancement Program is a collaborative program co-
ordinated by the Province that works with the Habitat Conservation Trust
Foundation, the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and local fish and
wildlife clubs to increase fishing opportunities at small urban lakes
throughout the province.