Image Credit: Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society.
Date: Tuesday March 25, 2025
Source: Warren Mirko
Target Species: Rainbow trout
Location: Columbia River
Weather: Mild
Temperature: 4 degrees Celsius
As the weather improves and boaters return to the Columbia River, anglers in the region should know and understand all new rules from Parks Canada regarding boat cleaning, draining, and movement within BC, including that as of May 17, 2024, it is illegal to transport watercraft in British Columbia with the drain plug still in place.
These rules and other best practices are important in preventing the spread of invasive species, including quagga and zebra mussels, and parasitic whirling disease now present in the Columbia watershed.
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC has information about whirling disease relevant for anglers in the Kootenays region including detection, how the disease spreads, and how anglers can prevent it.
As explained by Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society and the BC Wildlife Federation, whirling disease is caused by a microscopic parasite and threatens trout, salmon, and whitefish. The disease leads to skeletal deformities that distinguish infected fish and result in tail-chasing behavior. Because it is fatal and can affect up to 90% of juvenile fish, last year saw the closure of all bodies of water in British Columbia’s Kootenay and Yoho National Parks, with restrictions on watercraft extending to Alberta until March this year.
Castlegar News already has two articles on the topic published since January, so anglers have no shortage of information at their disposal to help stop the spread and ensure other anglers stay up to date as well. Catch up on the news produced by students of the Recreation, Fish and Wildlife program at Castlegar’s Selkirk College:
Eco-Logical: Be alert for signs of whirling disease
Eco-Logical: Whirling disease: A danger to B.C.’s Columbia River
Remember to have fun whether fishing from shore or boat, and as the weather improves to be weary of “fool’s spring” and the quickly changing conditions – including quickly developing systems of rain, snow, hail, and sun. This month has seen it all, but any day now the worm will turn, the river will rise, and polarized sunglasses will help return the advantage missing most of the winter.
