Where: Hwy 22A, 17.5 km southeast of Trail, B.C. Canada
GPS coordinates: 49.0032387, -117.6189719
When: June to October
Accessibility: Easy to moderate: steep terrain
Main Species: Walleye
Secondary Species: Rainbow
Located at the confluence of Pend d’Oreille River and Columbia River, the Walleye Hole is arguably one of the best fishing holes for Walleye west of Manitoba.
The Pend d’Oreille River flows into the mighty Columbia River 17 kilometres south of Trail, BC and about two kilometres north of the USA-Canada border. The fishing hole is just below the Waneta Dam where the fast water released by the dam creates a large flat sandy area where walleye and other species congregate during the calm low water season between July and October.
Access is available on the south side of the Waneta bridge where there is a pullout just above the fishing hole. You will know if you have gone too far as the USA-Canada Customs are just a short drive past the bridge. Anglers should wear a good pair of boots when walking down to the river as it is a steep incline for approximately 50 yards.
Walleye will move into the area in the spring when the weather warms and they begin to spawn. River levels fluctuate, but this usually has little impact on river access. During freshet the river is high and the Waneta Dam releases water. This increases the flow of the current below the dam, and usually occurs from May to the end of June.
The end of June through to October is excellent walleye fishing! Anglers can also catch bass and rainbow from the walleye hole, and occasionally hook up accidentally with the odd sturgeon. Sturgeon are a protected species and therefor must be carefully released.
For tips on how to target walleye go to:
https://wesportfish.com/our-sport-fishing/what-we-fish-for/walleye/
About our fishing hole sponsor
Best Western Crown Columbia. The Crown Columbia Hotel BW Premier Collection is a newly designed, extended stay, all-suite boutique hotel conveniently located in the heart of downtown Trail along the mighty Columbia River. Beautiful images of the Columbia River grace the walls of this newly designed hotel. If you love the Columbia River as much as we do you, rest assured you will feel right at home.
