Fishing Highway 24

BC’s famed “Fishing Highway” (Highway 24), a short yet scenic part of the Land of Hidden Waters, has been captivating fishing and outdoor enthusiasts since the mid-1800s. This incredibly picturesque route—also known as Interlakes—provides access to approximately 100 crystal-clear lakes, making it a dream destination for anglers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro seeking trophy catches, a novice fisherman eager to cast the first line, or a family who is looking for a peaceful day on the water or on the shoreline, there’s something here for everyone.

Beyond fishing, this region is a haven for families, paddlers, and nature lovers who simply enjoy being by the lake. From kayaking at sunrise to roasting marshmallows under a starlit sky, the opportunities for water sports and outdoor adventure are endless. With cozy lakeside resorts, campgrounds, and glamping options, plus local eateries serving up hearty meals, the Fishing Highway is not just a road—it’s an experience. Known for its fresh air, abundant wildlife, and friendly locals, this hidden gem keeps visitors coming back time and again.

Recommended Fishing Spots on Highway 24

Lac Des Roches | Jonny Bierman

An added bonus to the vast array of lakes in the Highway 24 area is that they also come with a wide variety of trout species, both wild and stocked. BC Fisheries stocking reports are available to anyone and give detailed information regarding the strain and species of trout added to the lakes in every region each spring. While the lakes on Highway 24 are predominantly Rainbow, thanks to fisheries stock, many also contain Brook, Burbot, Char, Lake, and Kokanee.

If you’re keen to learn the types of trout available (diploid, triploid, wild) and optimal fishing practices, both seasonal and daily, consider checking out the handy BC’s Angler’s Atlas for all the latest details on each lake.

1. Horse Lake: Horse Lake, an 18-km long destination, is a favourite for holidays and outdoor adventures. Its lakeside resorts and campgrounds provide the perfect base for fishing, with Rainbow Trout, Kokanee, and Lake Trout in its waters. In summer, it’s ideal for swimming, paddling, and lazy days on the dock. In autumn, the aspen groves at the east end burst into vibrant color, while winter transforms the lake into an ice fishing haven.
2. Sheridan Lake: One of the premiere lakes in BC, this gorgeous lake is heavily stocked with an abundance of Rainbows every spring that average 2-6 lbs, but also holds wild Brook Trout. Like Bridge Lake, Sheridan also boasts many resorts, campgrounds, and access areas.
3. Deka Lake: Perfect for travellers looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway, Deka Lake is home to two islands, one of which is privately owned. The name also refers to the surrounding rural community. Popular fish species in the lake include Kokanee, Lake Trout, and Rainbow Trout. The area is also home to free-range cattle during the summer.
4. Hathaway Lake: Hathaway Lake is a deep lake located just north of Sheridan Lake. Its more secluded location, off the highway, means it typically receives less fishing pressure than other nearby lakes. It attracts fly anglers, trollers, and ice fishing enthusiasts alike who can use the new public fishing dock. Resorts and campgrounds along the lakeshore provide accommodations for campers, RVers, and those seeking cabins or rooms, while nature trails around the lake invite explorers to hike, cross-country ski, or snowmobile.
5. Bridge Lake: This large lake with many resorts, a public fishing dock and access areas scattered around it, holds wild Arctic Char, Lake, and Burbot Trout, as well as a few species of coarse fish, and is also stocked with Kokanee and Rainbows each spring. The Lake Trout can grow upwards of a whopping 20 lbs (catch and release only) and the Rainbows average 4-6 lbs. Great lake for both fly fishing and trolling.
6. Lac des Roches: Also a decent-sized lake, it holds wild Burbot Trout and is well-stocked with Rainbows each year. It is good for both types of fishing and there are boat launches and resorts all around it.
7. Sulphurous Lake: Situated northwest of Hathaway Lake and Deka Lake, this lake draws fly anglers, trollers, and ice fishing enthusiasts year-round. Its shores are lined with resorts and campgrounds, offering accommodations for all tastes, from RV campgrounds to cozy cabins.
8. Phinetta Lake: East of Lac des Roches, Phinetta Lake is a scenic recreation site perfect for fishing and day picnics. With a public fishing dock and two camping areas, it’s a great stop for travellers exploring the route between 100 Mile House and Little Fort.

Small Lakes, Big Fun on BC’s Fishing Highway

Fawn Lake, BC | Blake Jorgenson

Beyond the well-known spots, Highway 24 is dotted with smaller lakes worth exploring:

• Irish Lake: A favourite for ice fishing and fly fishing for rainbow trout. While power-driven vessels are prohibited, electric motors are allowed. There are no resorts on this lake, but overnight camping is available.
• Fawn Lake: Just 4 km off Highway 24, this tranquil lake is ideal for all types of fishing, including ice fishing. Only electric motors are permitted, making it perfect for belly boats, pontoons, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and canoes. The lake stretches about 2 km long and 300 m wide, with dense forest on the south side and private properties to the north.
• Higgins Lake: Located on the northwest side of Hathaway Lake and Deka Lake, this lake attracts fly anglers, trollers, and ice fishing enthusiasts alike. Resorts and campgrounds along the shores offer accommodations for campers, RVers, and those looking for cabins or rooms. Higgins Lake has also been updated with a public fishing dock.
• Crystal Lake: Located southwest of Bridge Lake, Crystal Lake is a prime destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its excellent fly fishing, spinning, and trolling opportunities, the lake is stocked with rainbow and brook trout, while catch and release is recommended for golden trout. The recreation site is popular with campers and is RV-accessible, making it a convenient getaway for those looking to fish, canoe, or simply unwind in nature.

Besides fishing, Highway 24’s lakes also offer fantastic opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and birdwatching. Be sure to check local regulations before heading out.

Improved Access with New Fishing Docks

Fishing near Canim Lake, BC | Andrew Strain

Several lakes along Highway 24 have recently been upgraded with public fishing docks, making them more accessible for anglers of all levels:

• Irish Lake (2020)
• Bridge Lake (2021)
• Hathaway Lake (2020)
• Crystal Lake (2022)
• Higgins Lake (2018)
• Phinetta Lake (2020)

These additions offer easier shoreline access, better casting opportunities, and a more comfortable fishing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, these improved spots are worth a visit.

Outdoor Recreation Around Highway 24

Sheridan Lake, BC | Beverly Evans

Highway 24 isn’t only for people who love fishing and water sports; it’s also frequented by droves of outdoor recreation and wildlife enthusiasts. Endless trails and roads up into the backcountry are easily accessible from many points along the Highway and open up access to another world of varied vistas, from pristine creeks and rolling wildflower fields to snow-capped mountain summits. Wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, backcountry touring, ATV adventuring, rock climbing, and hunting are only the tip of the adventurer’s iceberg along Highway 24. In fact, there is so much to see and do in that 97 km stretch of road, that long-term locals claim they will never be able to see it all in one lifetime.

A Spectacular Route: Plan a Day Trip, an Overnighter or Holiday on Highway 24

For anyone who hasn’t yet experienced the adventure that is Highway 24, this looped route itinerary that begins and ends in Kamloops will offer the best chance to cast a line into a wide variety of lakes while also cruising through some of the most kaleidoscopic landscapes BC has to offer. Canada has four major biomes (geography and climate of a region)—desert, forest, grassland, and tundra—and the route from Kamloops to Highway 24 passes through subcategories of three of them, including semi-arid desert and boreal forest. This makes for some magical changes in scenery, guaranteed to strike awe.