The world's largest Kokanee salmon was caught here. 'Nuff said.
The 232-kilometre Arrow Lakes system, made up of Upper Arrow and Lower Arrow, winds through a lush valley framed by the Selkirk Mountains and forms part of the upper Columbia River watershed. The southern portion, Lower Arrow Lake, offers expansive paddling with long shorelines, quiet bays, and sweeping mountain views.
Near the lake’s southern end sits Castlegar, a community known for both paddling and world-class freshwater fishing. In fact, the largest kokanee salmon ever recorded was caught in these waters, giving the lake legendary status among anglers. That reputation has created a unique scene on the water. It’s common to see kayakers, canoeists, and even paddleboarders quietly trolling a fishing line as they float along the shoreline. Between the abundant fish, forested hillsides, and frequent wildlife sightings, Lower Arrow Lake offers the rare chance to combine relaxed paddling with the thrill of casting for your next big catch.
- Waterway AreaLower Arrow Lake offers a more remote experience than its northern counterpart. The lake is surrounded by the steep, forested slopes of the Monashee and Selkirk Mountains, with few signs of development. It is a place of deep water and immense beauty.Paddling here is a true wilderness undertaking. The lake features several beautiful provincial parks, like Syringa, which offer excellent camping. Wildlife is a major draw, with mountain goats often seen on the cliffs and black bears foraging along the beaches.The geography is influenced by its status as a reservoir, with water levels fluctuating. These fluctuations can create large debris fields. The lake is also notorious for its powerful winds, which can funnel down the valley and create very large waves.
- Type of PaddlingCanoe, Kayak, Paddleboard
- Waterway AccessStrong winds and log debris
- Waterway FeaturesPart of Columbia River
- Known HazardsMountainous and remote
- Waterway AccessStrong winds and log debris
- Waterway FeaturesPart of Columbia River
- Known HazardsMountainous and remote
- Waterway AreaLower Arrow Lake offers a more remote experience than its northern counterpart. The lake is surrounded by the steep, forested slopes of the Monashee and Selkirk Mountains, with few signs of development. It is a place of deep water and immense beauty.Paddling here is a true wilderness undertaking. The lake features several beautiful provincial parks, like Syringa, which offer excellent camping. Wildlife is a major draw, with mountain goats often seen on the cliffs and black bears foraging along the beaches.The geography is influenced by its status as a reservoir, with water levels fluctuating. These fluctuations can create large debris fields. The lake is also notorious for its powerful winds, which can funnel down the valley and create very large waves.
- Type of PaddlingCanoe, Kayak, Paddleboard
