Last night was very cold, instantly forming a solid 1.5″ layer of clear ice over Tunkwa, possibly an early end to any open water fishing on Tunkwa this year! Local lakes at lower elevation are still fishing very good, with next to no pressure.
Thompson river has also been dropping fast, setting up with better conditions for trophy steelhead fishing.
Tunkwa Lake Oct.23/07
Fishing pressure has been light on Tunkwa as of late, with most of our guests hunting. Anglers venturing out have been having extremely good success, but the weather is the biggest factor. Working on the boats this afternoon, I noticed lots of fish activity in front of the resort, I decided to take advantage of the beautiful weather and abundance of shallow fish. Fishing from the shore was incredible, with fish all over micro leaches fished at a moderate strip, olive/red leaches were best, but fish went for black, maroon, browns, it didn’t really matter. Smaller fish were caught if the fly did not get down, and bigger fish seemed to be feeding aggressively just above the dieing weeds. Fish into the mid 3 lb range were caught, and bigger fish were observed frequently. When hooked big fish would bury in the weeds, making extraction challenging. Tunkwa water temps are 41- F, and water clarity is very clear, making it easy to spot fish cruising the shallow weed edges. Good fish catches are being reported from some of our neighboring lakes as well.
Tunkwa Lake Oct.05/07
The FlyBC group have all gone now, leaving us with some great memories, a good bunch of people, that didn’t let the unseasonable, wild weather effect them, some serious hard core fisherfolks! Thanks!
Fishing pressure has been fairly light on Tunkwa the past few days.
Micro leach patterns, in maroon or black, fished fairly quickly have been the ticket for success, producing some nice sized fall rainbows. Larger wooly buggers have been catching as well. Guests trolling hardware have been having mixed results, but fish being caught are big. Morning reading of Tunkwa water temps are 42- F. Also some big fish are being reported from some of our neighbouring lakes. Morninga are still cool, hovering around the freezing mark, but mid day temps have been improving. Still some snow in the higher elevations around us.
Tunkwa Lake Sept. 28/07
Weather has been a mix of drizzle, with occasional wet snow. Winds have made it challenging at times.
Guests are having success with darker leach patterns- maroon being best, scud patterns fished along the weed edges are working as well. There has still been some surface opportunities, with success reported on natural coloured Tom Thumb patterns – size 14. As usual, worms under floats continue to fish very well. Tunkwa water temps are holding at 52-53 F, prime time! Our place is getting full with guest from the FlyBC, good bunch of anglers and from what I am seeing from our office, they are catching trout, even under some less then ideal conditions. Weather is supposed to improve, but bring your long-johns just in case!
Tunkwa Lake Sept. 25/07
Weather has been mixed, cool mornings with sunny breaks, but still the occasional drizzle passing through the area. Conditions are ideal this afternnon, and fish activity is very noticeable from shore.
Guests have had success with leach patterns, half backs, etc. Much activity from boatmen has been noticed around the docks, and anglers fishing those patterns are having success. There has still been some surface opportunities, with success reported on Tom Thumb patterns. Worms under floats continue to fish very well, producing some bigger fish. Trollers working frog or black pattern Kwikfish are catching some good sized fish as well. Tunkwa water temps are holding at 52-53 F, prime time! Guest from the FlyBC group have settled in and are making day trip to area lakes, and doing some pre-scouting for when the majority arrive later in the week.
Tunkwa Lake Sept. 22/07
Guest awoke this morning to a covering of wet snow, first one of the season at this elevation. Calm sunny conditions made short work of the snow, and fish seem to be charged up and hitting well. Guests fishing with leach patterns and Carey Specials are doing well. Some catches on root beer or dark green/olive chironomids have been reported as well. Worms under floats or used to tip ‘wedding bands’ for the trollers are working to. Tunkwa water temps are holding at 51-F, and lake level continues to slowly fall.
Tunkwa Sept. 21/07
Some very unsettled weather moving through this area the past few days, bringing lots of rainfall, and snow in the higher elevations surrounding Tunkwa, making for some incredible backdrops. Morning temps have been slightly warmer then the past couple of weeks, but the rain has made it a challenge. Anglers hardy enough to handle the rain have been having success, primarily with leach patterns fished above mid depth weed beds, or along underwater breaks. Dark coloured Spratley, scud patterns are all starting to produce as well. Tunkwa water temps are 51-F, and lake level continues to fall.
A day trip to a nearby lake yesterday, produced some beautiful fish, all caught shallow as they cruised marl/scattered weed shoals, #14 olive scud patterns worked earlier in the day, but boatman patterns fished with sharp pulls, brought about some violent strikes and was the ticket in the afternoon. After fishing this other lake, it sure made me appreciate how hard our Tunkwa fish fight, really no comparison.
Tunkwa Lake Sept. 15/07
Another beautiful day on Tunkwa, with calm sunny conditions. A cool morning greeted anglers today, but many were rewarded with fish. Everyone seems to be catching today!
Similar to recent days, Leach patterns in brown or olive are continuing to be working, Spratleys, PumpkinHeads and olive Carey Specials, fished slowly are producing. Half back nymphs have accounted for some good catches also. Worms under floats are catching. Anglers trolling various colours wedding bands tipped with worms are working as well. Great time of the year to be fishing Tunkwa!
Tunkwa Lake Sept. 14/07
A beautiful day on Tunkwa, with calm sunny conditions. There have been some good size caught the last few days, up to 6.5lbs.
Leach patterns in brown or olive are continuing to be working, Spratleys, PumpkinHeads and olive Carey Specials, fished slowly are producing. Half back nymphs have accounted for some good catches also. Great time of the year to be fishing Tunkwa!
Tunkwa Lake Sept. 10/07
Another beautiful day on Tunkwa, calm sunny conditions and a warmer morning greeted anglers. From reports, everyone is catching some trout, including some better sized fish. Leach patterns in brown or olive are working, red Spratleys, PumpkinHeads and olive Carey Specials, fished slowly are producing. Great time to be fishing Tunkwa!
Also, with hunting season opening today, watch for our Hunting Report page starting soon.
Tunkwa Lake Sept. 09/07
A beautiful day to be fishing on Tunkwa. Fishing reports coming in were mixed, some anglers had great success, others not so. Some better sized fish were brought in, several in the 4 lb class. Leach patterns in brown or olive are working, red Spratleys and olive Carey Specials, fished slowly are producing. Worms under a float is working as well. Surface activity continues to pick up in the late afternoon and into the evening. Some very cool night temps are dropping water temps in a hurry, 55-F, coupled with dropping water levels, appear to have the fish feeding well right now.
Tunkwa Lake Sept. 07/07
Unsettled weather passing though Friday, made the bite a bit off from the steady action experienced mid week. Leach patterns are working, half-backs and red Spratleys fished slowly are rpoducing. Surface activity continues to pick up in the late afternoon and into the evening. Cool night temps are creating falling water temps, coupled with dropping water levels, appear to have the fish feeding well right now and we are heading into a great time to be fishing up here. Saturday started clear,sunny and calm, but very cool, so far, many fish are being caught with a couple of 4 lb+ fish coming in. Reports from guests indicate local lakes are also fishing well.
Tunkwa Lake Sept. 03/07
A quieter day on the lake, with everyone packing up and heading back to school and work. Surface activity picked up in the late afternoon and into the evening. Cooler night temps seem to slow the surface activity down in the mornings. Leach patterns were working well, as were boat-man patterns, various coloured Spratley’s also. Our cooler night temps are creating falling water temps 58-F, coupled with dropping water levels, appear to have the fish feeding well right now and we are heading into a great time to be fishing up here. Reports indicate local lakes are fishing well aslo.
Tunkwa Lake Sept. 02/07
Some more unsettled weather pushing through the area, but fishing was very good in the afternoon, as it seemed the fiish really turned on as light rain showers passed by. Lots of fish were being caught including some better sized fish, up to 4.5 lbs.
Darker leach patterns were working very well. Guests fishing worms under slip floats, or trolling hardware, produced also.
Cooler night temps are creating slowly falling water temps (57-F in the morning), coupled with dropping water levels, appear to have the fish feeding very well right now.
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 31/07
Some unsettled weather pushed through the area, dropping air temps and provided us with some scattered showers, normally putting fishing off a touch, but from reports coming in, fishing was pretty good, esp. in the evening with incredible surface activity from feeding trout. Large dark green chironomids were noted in stomach samples. Water is continuing to be pulled down, and cool night temps creating falling water temps, seem to have the fish feeding well right now.
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 30/07
Fishing activity has been light the past few days. Anglers are reporting decent catches, including some bigger fish. Surface activity from feeding trout on the lake is impressive in the late afternoons and evenings. Dark black or maroon coloured leach patterns were catching fish also, as were various chironomid patterns, with green or brown with red butts being a good choice. Lake levels are still steadily continuing to drop, with large quantities of water being pulled through. Reports indicate action at Leighton has slown down a bit. Guests are reporting, the nearby Thompson River has been providing them with decent action for Jack salmon, as well as with resident Thompson river rainbows that are rising for large caddis presentations.
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 27/07
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 24/07
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 20/07
Decent chironomid hatches are coming off the lake. Small caddis hatches in the evening are offering some good surface activity in the evenings.
Anglers fishing dark(black or maroon, with red tinsel) leach patterns are catching fish also, the fish seem to be reacting best to a faster, more aggressive fishing style. Reports indicate Leighton is fishing well also, with some good success on Caddis patterns, as well as the usual chironomid patterns.
August 16,2007
Fishing conditions for the last three days have been ideal. The bombers have been hatching in good numbers at Leighton though many flyfishers have had better success fishing small olive beadhead caddis pupa patterns. Shiny grey Chironomids(static bag)in size 12(3xl) have been most productive though root beer, dark brown and olive patterns in regular and red butt have been effective.
Tunkwa has not had action quite as fast but redbutt greys and dark olive bombers have produced well.
For gear fishermen, trolling just about any green lure has been effective whether it is frog flatfish/hotshots or wedding bands and the worm and bobber has been quite effective as it always is.
As long as the weather and barometer stay steady the good fishing should continue right through Labour Day Weekend. Good luck and tight lines.
Aug.11/09
Mixed fishing reports coming in, with action coming in spurts. Usual chironomid patterns are producing. Slow drifted or trolled leach aptterns are producing also. Heavy bomber hatches are coming off in the day, as well as some caddis, and mayflies activity.
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 10/07
Reports of heavy chironomid hatches on the lake are coming in. Anglers dialed in are doing very well fishing larger chironomid patterns, in Chromie colours, StaticBag(see Reaction Tackle in Logan Lake for these), root-beers and dark-green are producing. Anglers fishing darker(black, maroon) leach patterns in the eve are doing well also. Reports indicate Leighton is fishing well also, with some good success on Caddis emerger patterns, even with lots of chironomid hatches.
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 08/07
Fishing pressure is light on Tunkwa. Reports of heavy chironomid hatches on the lake are coming in, and large specimens in “root beer” colour can be seen on the window screens. Early morning surface activity was impressive, with no anglers taking advantage of it.
Some rain and unsettled weather passed through the area today.
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 06/07
Fishing reports indicated fishing was still tough, and fish very spread out, most likely due to increase activity on the lake over the holiday weekend. Action seemed to come in spurts, and picked up in late afternoon.
Large bloodworm presentations and larger sized Chironomids were producing, but the good old garden hackle(worm) under a float accounted for catches also. Reports indicate that neighbouring Leighton Lake has been fishing well, producing a couple fish over 6-lbs the last couple days.
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 05/07
Fishing reports indicated fishing was a tough, and fish very spread out. Action seemed to come in spurts. Large bloodworm presentation and larger sized Chironomids produced. The good old garden-hackle(worm) under a float accounted for catches also. Fish on the cleaning table were full of large, olive green chironomids.
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 04/07
More unstable weather made fishing a bit tougher. Action seemed to come in spurts. Chironomids colours that are producing are Olive Green/red butt, Rootbeer, shiny grey, dark reddish brown and redbutt red rib black bombers. The depth most effective is still 15-17ft. Again, fishing 1-2 ft. off bottom is critical. Again, many small mayflies were observed hatching.
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 03/07
Mixed reports coming in, but the unstable weather made fishing a bit tougher. Chironomids colours that are hot are Olive Green/red butt, Rootbeer, shiny grey, dark reddish brown and redbutt red rib black bombers. The depth most effective is still 15-17ft. fishing 1-2 ft. off bottom. These are best fished under a strike indicator. There are bombers hatching but the big hatch has not intensified yet, many small mayflies were observed hatching as well.
Tunkwa Lake Aug. 02/07
All sorts of reports of today of redbutt olive chironomids getting broken off. Others colours that are hot are Rootbeer, shiny grey, dark reddish brown and redbutt red rib black bombers. The depth most effective has been 15-17ft. fishing 1-2 ft. off bottom. These are best fished under a strike indicator. There are bombers hatching but the big hatch has not intensified yet, with best guess the week after the long weekend being prime time.
Tunkwa Lake July 30/07
Tunkwa Lake July 29/07
Sunday started a bit breezy, making set up challenging, but fish were still on. Anglers able securely setup there boats and fish effectively in the wind still did very well. The winds calmed down later in the aft. and the action improved for all. Again, mid sized Green/Red butt, Chromie or Root Beer chironomids were producing, as were larger blood-worm imitators. Best results by using a strike indicator keeping the presentation just a couple feet up off the bottom, mostly in the deeper areas of the lakes, raising the presentation up a bit as the day progresses helps keep the fly in the strike zone, as the fish follow the chiron’ies up. The cool nights are keeping water temps in the mid 60-F range.
Tunkwa Lake July 28/07
Angler had more of a challenge today, brought on by brisk winds. Anglers able securely setup there boats and fish effectively in the wind still did very well. Mid sized Green/Red butt, or RootBeer chironomids were producing, as were blood-worm imitators. Best results by using a strike indicator keeping the presentation just a couple feet up off the bottom, mostly in the deeper areas of the lakes.
Tunkwa Lake July 27/07
Similar report as yesterday, fishing on Tunkwa is still very good, with lots of fish being caught. The big fish are being caught, with fish well into the 4 lb class being caught. Good chironomid hatches are starting, with stronger hatches in the evening, providing some great surface opportunities. Just the occasional Bomber showing up so far. Anglers fishing with mid sized Green chronies, Chromie, RootBeer or blood-worm imitators are doing well, with best results using a strike indicator keeping the presentation just a couple feet up off the bottom, mostly in the deeper areas of the lake. Weather conditions remain great, and the fishing is hot.
Tunkwa Lake July 26/07
Fishing on Tunkwa has been excellent, with lots of fish being caught, including many bigger fish. I have seen some of the biggest fish of the year being brought in the last couple days. Good chironomid hatches are starting in the day, with stronger hatches in the evening, providing some great surface opportunities. Anglers fishing mid day with mid sized Green chronies, Chromie or blood-worm imitators are doing extremely well, with best results using a strike indicator keeping the presentation just a couple feet up off the bottom, in the deeper areas of the lake. Weather conditions are incredible, fishing is hot, what more could one ask for!
Tunkwa Lake July 25/07
Tunkwa lake is fishing very good as of late, with lots of fish being caught, including many bigger fish. Good chironomid hatches in the evening are taking place, providing some great surface opportunities. Casting emerger type flies to the surface swirls is working well also. Anglers fishing mid day with mid sized green chronies or blood-worm imitators are doing extremely well, with best results just a couple feet up off the bottom.
Tunkwa Lake July 23/07
Another good day to be on Tunkwa lake, with lots of fish being caught, including some bigger fish. Small Mayfly and mid sized chironomids were observed hatching, but not in any kind of great numbers. Good catches were reported on size 10 ‘metallic’ green chironomids fished under a strike indicator.
Tunkwa Lake July 22/07
Another great day to be on Tunkwa lake, again looked like everyone was catching fish, including some bigger fish. Stomach samples were full of big blood worms, with some up to 1.25 inch in length, red or metallic green coloured, the ‘bombers’ will be hatching soon.
Tunkwa Lake July 21/07
A great day to be on Tunkwa lake, looked like everyone was catching fish, including some very nice sized fish. Stomach samples were full of big blood worms, with some up to 1.25 inch in length, red or metallic green coloured, a great sign the ‘bombers’ will be hatching soon. Simply a great time to be on the water!
Fishing Report July 20/07
Another quiter day on the lake, light winds, occasional drizzle, made angling a bit slower, but fish were still being caught. No significant hatches were observed today. Many dragon cases and adults were observed along the shoreline and docks. Guests reported a couple nearby lakes fished OK yesterday.
Tunkwa Lake July 19/07
A quite day on the lake, moderate winds made angling a bit challenging, but from reports and action on the cleaning table, fish were caught. No significant hatches were observed. We are not far way from our famous Bomber chironomids hatches occurring.
Reports indicated that a couple nearby lakes fished well yesterday.
Tunkwa Lake July 18/07
Some very good catches have been coming out of Tunkwa the last couple days, some good sized fish also. Nearby Lakes by are fishing extremely well also.
Various Chironomids, and Pumpkin-heads are producing. Guests fishing worms under a float were finding success also. Key seems to be keeping your presentations close to the bottom, as of late.
Tunkwa Lake July 16/07
Fishing pressure was light today, and anglers were working hard, but catching fish. Winds remained very light giving a nice “chironomid” chop to the water surface. Some larger chironomids were hatching in the evening, as well as many caddis in the late evening. A good amount of surface activity was observed.
Again, green or chromie chironomids or wet flies(Spratleys, B-52s etc) seem to be producing best. Gang trolls tipped with a wedding band or a plain worm produced fish also. Guests fishing worms under a float were catching fish. Upcoming weather forecast is looking great, with perfect daytime temps and nice cool evenings.
Tunkwa Lake July 15/07
Fishing pressure was light this weekend, conditions were good, and fishing seemed to pick up a bit after the Saturday night storms passed through. Winds were moderate over the weekend, the fish seemed to turn on afterwards, with much surface activity noted in the evening. Some larger chironomids were hatching, but not bombers sized yet. Large blood worms were noted in stomachs of fish on the cleaning table.
Small green or ‘chromie’ or wets(Spratleys, B-52’s etc) seem to be producing best. Anglers fishing worms under a float are catching fish also. Surface water temps in the morning are 64-F.
July 13 – Tunkwa Lake
Lucky Friday the 13th…..any day on the water is a lucky day.
Fishing pressure was light today, warm weather, with an afternoon storm passing by-but missing us, the fish seemed to turn on afterwards, with conditions going calm. Much surface activity was seen again in the evening, and some larger chironomids were hatching.
Small green or ‘chromie’ chironomids, damsel and leach patterns seem to be producing best. Anglers fishing worms under a float are catching also. Local lakes are fishing very well also.
July 12 – Tunkwa Lake
A warm day on Tunkwa. with nice cool nights. Fishing pressure is light, but regulars are reporting decent catches of better then average sized fish. Small green chironomids, or damsel patterns seem to be producing best. Anglers fishing worms under a float are catching also. Local lakes are producing very well also. Water temps are creeping up to the upper 60-F range.
July 9 – Tunkwa Lake
A windy day on Tunkwa, but lots of fish being brought in today, by anglers who tackled the lake. Fly anglers have been struggling the last couple days, but the fish are there and being caught. Trollers using ‘fenders’ with a 3′ lead to a hook tipped with worm produced very well, as did the good ole’ worm under a float. Guest fly fishing in nearby lakes yesterday reported good action, with some bigger fish being caught also. Water temps are creeping up to the upper 60-F range.
July 8 – Tunkwa Lake
Another beautiful day on Tunkwa lake, with calm conditions, and a mix of sun/cloud.
Lots of fish being brought in today, caught on a variety of presentations. Larger green/red chironomids and ‘chromie’ patterns were producing some fish. Anglers trolling ‘gang trolls’ tipped with a plain worm run 24-36″ behind seemed to produce better fish. Frog coloured Hot Shots and kwikfish also produced. Water temps are creeping up to the upper 60-F range.
July 6 – Tunkwa Lake
A beautiful day on Tunkwa lake, a nice light breeze, warm sunshine and cool evenings, just perfect!
Caddis hatches were good last evening, and Mayfly hatches were heavy throughtout the day. Many spinners were on the lake surface in the mornings. Reports coming in indicated fishing was better on Tunkwa today, with a variety of presentations working. Guests fishing in nearby lakes reported some good success also. Water temps are holding at 62-F.
July 5 – Tunkwa Lake
A very warm sunny day on Tunkwa Lake, with some strong winds mixed in. Evening went like glass, and temps turned very confortable for the night. Reports coming in indicated fishing was tough, but fish were being caught. Anglers trolling with the wind connected with trout using kwikfish or hot shots in frog or black/silver. Guests fishing in nearby lakes reported some good success. Water temps are 62-F. Stable weather in the forecast will get fishing back on track.
July 3 – Tunkwa Lake
A beautiful day on Tunkwa Lake, but fishing was tough, even surface activity was a bit quiter then normal. Best fishing was in the earlier morning. Reports of stomach samples showing damsels as the primary food. Warm stable weather in the forecast should get fishing back on track.
July 2 – Tunkwa Lake
A beautiful weekend on Tunkwa lake, warm days, and cool nights ….. the sun stayed shining, and winds stayed moderate. Best success seemed to happen in the earlier mornings Good Mayflies hatches were observed coming off, chironmid hatches were light, big Traveling Sedges are making appearances. Stomach samples are showing damsels, mayfly nymphs, small leeches as well as blood worms. Olive hares ear nymphs, wets like spratleys/B-52’s etc seemed to be best producers. Still some success being reported on ‘Chromie’ chironomids. Anglers trolling, wedding bands, kwikfish, hot shots and Vibrax spinners, were producing also.
June 29 – Tunkwa Lake
Lots of adverse weather moving about, but missing Tunkwa lake, the sun was shining, and wind stayed moderate and fish stayed active. Dark green Chironomids were producing fish, as were blood-worm imitators, Micro Leaches, Scud patterns, as well as the old stand-by, ‘garden hackle ‘(worm under a float) was producing lots of fish for guests. Water temps are holding at 59-F, clarity is still very good with high water levels. Some caddis hatches are being reported coming. Stomach samples on the cleaning table are showing lots of bloodworms, small leaches, scuds or smaller chironomids. Weekend weather forecast is looking fantastic!!
June 28 – Tunkwa Lake
Light breezes, warm weather and sunshine, made for good fishing conditions. Reports coming in, indicated fishing was good, with big fish being caught. ‘Chromies’ and our new ‘purple haze’ chironomids were producing fish, blood-worm imitators, Spratleys, Pumkinheads, B-52 produced, as well as the old stand-by, ‘garden hackle’ (worm under a float). Water temps are holding at 58-59-F, clarity is very good, and water levels are still high. Some caddis hatches were reported coming off mid-day also.
June 26 – Tunkwa Lake
A beautiful day to be on the water, a light breeze with nice warm sunshine, made conditions ideal. Much insect activity was observed on the water. Fishing pressure was very light and from the few reports coming in, fishing was good, with some big fish being caught. ‘Chromie’ chironomids were producing today, as well as the worm under a float.
June 25 – Tunkwa Lake
Mixed reports coming in, but fishing was good. Some unsettled weather in the morning, but Tunkwa laid down to provide some great conditions in the afternoon, with the sun warming everything up. Some better sized fish were being caught on a variety of presentations. Mayflies hatches were observed, with a lot of surface activity in the evening. Fish being cleaned, had stomachs full of blood worms, with some being over an inch long. Upcoming weather forecast is looking great.
June 24 – Tunkwa Lake
From reports coming in, fishing was good. Some better sized fish were brought in. Trollers did well, fishing wet flies, like the Pumpkinhead and olive/gold bead-head leaches. Mayflies hatches were observed, with a lot of surface activity in the evening.
June 23 – Tunkwa Lake
Perfect fishing weather, mild breeze and moderate temperatures today. Fishing was really good, with most anglers reporting good catches, with some larger than average fish being taken. Anglers fishing anything green coloured did very well (including frog coloured Hot-Shots and Kwik Fish). Root Beer chironomids, size 12, 3 X Long were productive. Fish were observed with red and green blood worms in their bellies. Anglers using worms and bobbers also did well today.
June 22 – Tunkwa Lake
Moderate weather greeted anglers, but fishing was good . From reports coming in, wet flies, like the Spratley’s, Pumpkinhead and olive/gold bead leaches were working well, whether drifted or trolled. Damsel flies as well as mayflies were observed hatching. Anglers fishing worms under floats or strike indicators were doing quite well. Weather foecast is boding well for anglers this weekend.
June 21 – Tunkwa Lake
The first day of summer! Brisk winds made the fishing challenging, but anglers who could get out of it, or anchor up securely, had success. Again, wet flies, like the K-Mart special, Pumpkinhead and olive/gold bead leachs were working. Damsel flies were observed hatching along the shoreline, something for anglers to keep in mind, and fish shallower during this hatch. Anglers fishing worms under floats or strike indicators were doing well also. Water temps have crept back up to the 60-F mark.
June 20 – Tunkwa Lake
Another sunny, warm day on Tunkwa Lake. Brisk winds made the fishing challenging, but success was had by anglers, with some better then average sized fish being brought in. The strong sun has started the hatches and fishing has improved. Anglers fishing chironomids in dark green, chromie or root beer colour produced. Wet flies, like the K-Mart special, Pumpkinhead and B-52 are working. Damsel flies were observed hatching along the shoreline.
June 19 – Tunkwa Lake
Sunshine, with brisk winds on Tunkwa. Fishing was challenging with the wind, but success was had by anglers fishing chironomids in dark green, or root beer colours. Damsel flies were observed starting to hatch again. Water temps have fallen back down to mid 50-F mark, level is still high, with great clarity. Warmer temps in the immediate forecast should get the fishing back on track.
June 17 – Tunkwa Lake
A rainy day on the lake, with some nice sunny breaks in the later afternoon. Winds were very light again today. Fish were being caught on chironomids fished under strike indicators, with root beer coloured being the better producer. Anglers trolling/drifting various wet fly patterns caught fish. ‘Glow-in-the Dark’ wedding bands tipped with worms, also produced. Tunkwa Lake water temps are 56-F. Weather forecast is looking favorable for the rest of the week, with drier conditions and more seasonable temps.
June 16 – Tunkwa Lake
A rainy day on the lake today. Fish were being caught on various coloured chironomids, as well as various wet fly patterns, with the ’52 Buick’ in light olive green, fished slowly along the bottom producing. Trollers using bright green or fire-tiger colured Kwikfish caught fish.
June 14 – Tunkwa Lake
Fish being caught on various chironomids, as well as various wet fly patterns (K-Mart specials, Sprately’s etc). Trollers fishing ‘fenders’, bright green Kwikfish, wedding bands etc. caught fish. Again, some very good catches were reported from day trippers to nearby lakes.
June 13 – Tunkwa Lake
Good reports of fishing being caught on chironomids (TunkwaSpecial, ‘christmas tree’) in the morning, prior to the strong winds, which made fishing a challenge. Some very good catches were reported from day trippers to nearby lakes, always a good option on those windy days.
June 12 – Tunkwa Lake
An incredible day to be on Tunkwa Lake today, very light winds providing a perfect ‘chironomid chop’, sunny conditions and the trout where on! Lots of fish being caught today by everyone it seemed, a variety of techniques all seemed to be producing trout, with some better then average sized fish.
June 11 – Tunkwa Lake
Another sunny day on Tunkwa, with moderate wind from a southerly direction. Chironomids, and Damsel patterns were producing fish today, as was drifting with micro leach patterns. Worms fished under a float were working also. Strong Mayflie hatches were observed once again. Water temps are still staying under 60 F.
June 10 – Tunkwa Lake
Tunkwa Lake June 10/07
A sunny day on Tunkwa, with moderate southerly winds. Some nice catches were observed today. Reports indicated Chironomids in ‘christmas tree’ or ‘tunkwa special’ colours produced fish, as did drifting with micro leach patterns in maroon or red. Worms fished under a float also worked. I also observed some incredible surface activity in the midlake duing early evening, unlike anything I have ever seen before (with no one fishing it either!). Water temps are still staying under 60 F, with morning readings of 56 F.
June 9 – Tunkwa Lake
Drizzly cool weather greeted anglers today. Some nice catches, including some bigger than average fish, were brought in this morning. Reports indicated wedding bands, in ‘glow-in-the-dark’ tipped with worms were producing. Chironomids in brown or dark olive produced fish also, as did various mayfly nymph imitators. Worms or small shrimp fished under a float also produced. The afternoon was a slower fish based on reports coming in, with the cool drizzle keeping many anglers inside. Weather forecast for Sunday looks much improved.
June 8 – Tunkwa Lake
Fishing reports have indicated good action, with many anglers reporting good catches. Worms under a float are still working quite well. Large brown or ‘rootbeer’ coloured larger sized chronies are producing well. Olive/red micro leaches fished sub surface or trolled-drifted are producing. In addition, Damsel fly imitations worked in shallower water have been doing well also.
June 7 – Tunkwa Lake
An occasional light drizzle fell on Tunkwa today, and winds were very light. Fishing has been very good, with all anglers reporting good catches.. Anglers using a variety of techniques, from a worm under a float, to large ‘bomber’ sized chronies, as well as olive/red micro leaches fished sub surface to fish sipping flies. Anglers fishing damsel fly imitations in shallower water have been doing well also. Some good reports of surface activity and action in the evening has been reported also. Water temps are holding at 59 F.
June 6 – Tunkwa Lake
Some rain and light drizzle fell on Tunkwa again today, winds were very light. Fishing has been very good, with large hatches of Mayflies and chironies coming off. Good catches were reported by many anglers using a variety of techniques, from a worm under a flaot, to large ‘bomber’ sized chronies, as well as micro leaches fished sub surface to fish sipping flies. Water temps are back down to 59 F. Thursday conditions look like they should be just as good.
June 4 – Tunkwa Lake
Some rain and light drizzle fell on Tunkwa today, winds were light and temps were back to more seasonal. Good catches were reported by many anglers using a variety of techniques. Tuesdays conditions look like they should be just as good.
June 3 – Tunkwa Lake
Another calm and warm day up at on Tunkwa, again making for tougher fishing conditions. A light breeze provide some surface chop, at times, and seemed to help the fishing today. Some good catches were reported using size 10 tan coloured ‘bomber’ chironomids, and catches were reported on black or dark greens in size 14’s. Worms fished up fairly high under floats accounted for catches also. Again, we noticed large number of damsel fly nymphs migrating to shore, with many adults hatching, usually drawing fish towards the shallows, something to keep in mind. Light rain and more seasonal temps are in the forecast, should bring the fishing action back to how it was ‘pre-heat wave’.
June 2 – Tunkwa Lake
Extremely calm and warm conditions
greeted anglers on Tunkwa, conditions making fishing tougher. I noticed
today for the first time this season, large number of damsel fly nymphs
migrating to shore and many adults hatching, usually drawing fish
towards the shallows, something to keep in mind. Small dark mayflies
were observed hatching again.
June 1 – Tunkwa Lake
Calm and sunny condition greeted anglers the past couple days on Tunkwa, and lots of aggressive fish being caught. The lake is fishing well. Great time to be on the water! Dark green or rootbeer coloured Chironies are producing. Chartreuse/silver wedding bands tipped with worms produced nice catches also. Lots of fish were caught on worms fished under floats, trick being fish the worm up fairly high in the water column, as the fish are not on the bottom. Water temps in Tunkwa have finally hit the 60 F mark.
May 30 -Tunkwa Lake
A fine day on the lake today, with good number of fish having been caught. Chironomids in ‘rootbeer’ (rusty brown) and ‘chromies’ were the best producers. K-Mart specials were also very productive. The chironomid bite at Leighton was also report to be back on.
May 28 – Tunkwa Lake
An incredible day to be on Tunkwa today. Fairly calm and sunny condition greeted anglers, followed by a beautiful sunset over the lake and across the mountains. Incredible chironomid hatches filled the sky this afternoon and evening. Few reports trickling in indicated darker green chironomid patterns were the top producers again. Fish were also taken trolling/drifiting ‘pumpkinhead’,and K-Mart specials. Water temps in Tunkwa are still remaining steady at 58 F.
May 27 – Tunkwa Lake
Tunkwa finally got some rain! A steady rain greeted anglers today,and kept many off the water. The few reports that trickled in indicated very small green chronimid patterns were the top producers again. Some bigger fish were also taken trolling/drifiting ‘pumpkinhead’ or maroon coloured micro leaches. Water temps in Tunkwa are still remaining steady in the upper 50 F range.
May 26 – Tunkwa Lake
Overcast skies and light breezes greeted anglers today. Success came fishing very small green chronimid patterns, with some guests reporting very good catches, both in numbers and size. Fish were also taken trolling red wedding bands/silver blades, tipped with a piece of worm. Guests fishing other local lakes, reported some good catches including many bigger fish. Water temps in Tunkwa are still remaining steady at 58 F.
May 25 – Tunkwa Lake
Sunny, warm and calm best described the weather on Tunkwa,and the fish were co-operating. Success came fishing small green or ‘Chromie’, chronimid patterns or dead drifting ‘pumpkinhead’ or micro leach patterns. Large mayfly hatches were observed mid day, fishing a ‘hares ear’ nymph or something similar, along the bottom in some of the rocky areas, would be a good choice when the chronimid bite dies down in late afternoon. Water temps are remaining steady at 58 F.
May 24 – Tunkwa Lake
Another beautiful day on Tunkwa lake, a bit choppy in the morning, but laying down to a nice chronie chop, then flat in the evening. Many hatches observed mid day. Best success came fishing very small green chronimid patterns or dead drifting ‘K mart Specials’ or ‘pumpkinhead’ flies. Water temps are remaining steady in the upper 50 F range.
May 22 – Tunkwa Lake
A beautiful day to be on Tunkwa lake today, sunny with light winds from the west, giving the lake a nice ‘Chronie’ chop. Large numbers of chronimid hatches filled the air and callibaetis (mayflies) were hatching in incredible numbers in front of the lodge. Water temps here were 58 F at the end of the day. Guest fishing some of the nearby smaller lakes did extremely well today, with reports of good numbers and very big fish also. Mixed fishing reports coming in, with everyone hooking up, but anglers fishing smaller green Chronies, on a slow retrieve (no strike indicator) produced many fish. Micro leaches in olive/red, ‘pumkinhead’ and Chronimids in ‘coppertop’ produced fish today also.
May 21 – Tunkwa Lake
The weather remained unsettled today with stronger winds from the west, keeping most anglers off the big lake, until later afternoon and evening. Large numbers of chronimid and callibaetis were observed around the lodge today, and water temps here were 57 F. Guests fishing some of the nearby smaller lakes did extremely well today, with reports of good numbers and very big fish also. Micro leaches in olive/red and chronimids in ‘coppertop’ produced.
May 20 – Tunkwa Lake
Though the weather remained unsettled the wind conditions were perfect for chronimid fishing. Amazing numbers of chronimid and callibaetis cases off the point in front of the lodge. Non-chronimid fishers did extremely well dead drifting K-Marts and Mini-Marts in 3-5′ of water in mid-afternoon as the fish were keying in on emergers. Chronimid patterns producing today were Chromies, Coppertops and very small Tunkwa Greens as there were multiple sizes coming off. Sizes ranging from size 12(3XL) to size 14(2XS). Trollers found success on green wedding bands, black sparkle kwikfish and the annually popular frog pattern flatfish. Keep in mind on your next trip that during low pressure fronts the fish tend to move into shallow water. Best of luck and tight lines.
The photo below shows the contents of one fish’s belly.
May 19 – Tunkwa Lake
Lots of eager anglers trying their luck on the lake today. Big winds made it challenging to fish well, but many fish caught today. Strong hatches of chronimids were observed all day today, even with the stronger winds. Fish were caught on Chromie patterns, ‘RootBeer’ and ‘copper top’ chronimids produced today, as did the ‘K-Mart special’ fly, tied by our own John Kent trolled on a slime line. Anglers trolling Frog coloured or blue/silver coloured Kwikfish, sized K4’s scored today as well. The day ended with a beautiful evening, incredible sunset, and the lake as calm as a ‘mill pond’.
May 18 – Tunkwa Lake
The long weekend is here, and in comes a cold front …….. but lots of eager anglers are up at the lake. Water temp was noted as 57 F. Strong hatches of chronimids observed today as well as small numbers of caddis reported. Fish caught on Chromie patterns, black/grey or green patterns of chronimids. Anglers trolling chartreuse wedding bands tipped with worms produced fish, as did Frog coloured Kwikfish, sized K4’s.
May 17 – Tunkwa Lake
A sunny day on Tunkwa today, light winds, beautiful day to be on the water. Strong hatches of chronimids, with some large ones observed in the masses. Also, smaller, darker mayflies were observed today in decent numbers. Fish were reported caught on Chromie patterns, black or grey patterns chronimids. Anglers trolling wedding bands/tipped with worms, kwikfish reported success also.
May 16 – Tunkwa / Leighton
Reports from Leighton indicate that the fishing there is hot! Both Tunkwa and Leighton are fishing well on chronimids with size 12, green, brown or ‘chromies’ being your best bet.
May 15 – Tunkwa Lake
Another beautiful day on the lake today, very sunny and warm. Strong hatches of chronimids were reported, again varying in sizes. Smaller dark mayflies were observed today. Also giant flying carpenter ants were observed yesterday, in good numbers. Few reports coming in today indicated it was a tougher bite, but some beautiful fish were observed being brought in. ‘Chromie’ patterns seemed to be the best producers.
May 14 – Tunkwa Lake
Another beautiful day on the lake today, with light variable winds from the SE. Strong hatches of chronimids were observed mid day, again varying in sizes. Angling pressure on the lake was very light today and the reports that were received today indicated it was a tougher bite. That being said, some beautiful fish were observed being brought in. Water temperature off the end of the TLR dock was 55 C.
May 13 – Tunkwa Lake
A beautiful sunny, day on the lake today, with light variable winds from the north. The air was thick with chronimids this afternoon, varying in sizes, including some larger specimens. Angling pressure on the lake was surprising light today and very few reports coming in today.
May 12 – Tunkwa Lake
A beautiful sunny, warm day on the lake, with light variable winds. Once again, the water temp was reported at 53 F. Sporadic hatches were reported with mixed size and colours of Chronimids. From reports coming in, ‘chromies’, ‘Tunkwa green’ or black/grey chronimid patterns produced best. Silver bladed Wedding Bands in chartreuse or red worked well and the usual K4 Kwikfish or size 30 Hot Shots in Frog or black produced today, also.
May 11 – Tunkwa Lake
A cool early morning (-4 C)., but another beautiful sunny, warm today on the lake, with light variable winds, mixed a few stronger gusts in the afternoon. Water temps were reported at 53 F. Again, sporadic hatches were reported. Mixed reports came in today from both fly and lure anglers. Anglers able to keep ‘on top’ of active fish did well. From reports coming in, chromies, or black/grey chronimid patterns produced best. Wedding bands in Chartreuse, tipped with worms and the usual K4 Kwikfish or size 30 Hot Shots in Frog or black produced today, also. Good reports have been received about Leighton as well.
May 10 – Tunkwa Lake
Another sunny, warm day on the lake, light variable winds until mid afternoon. Water temps were recorded at 51 F. Sporatic hatches were observed, and mixed reports came in from both fly and lure anglers, many reporting good numbers and bigger than average fish. ‘Tunkwa Green’, chromies, or black/grey chronimid patterns produced. Gang trolls/wedding bands and the usual K4 Kwikfish or size 30 Hot Shots produced.
May 9 – Tunkwa Lake
Wow, what a difference a day makes! One couldn’t have asked for a nicer day on the water – sunny, and light variable winds, nice light ‘chroni’ chop, with water temps creeping up to the 50F/10C mark. Chronimid hatches hatches were sporatic today with many smaller ones(18-20’s) with the occasional flurry of larger sized 12 bugs in the mix. Fishing was good today, anglers willing to move with the hatches found success throughout Tunkwa. Chronie patterns in ‘Tunkwa green’, ‘Wonderbug’ and Black/Silver ‘snow’ cones produced fish. A special thanks to Bill and Zack from Washington, who showed this writer how truly incredible this Chronimid fishery is! Nice catches were brought in today by anglers trolling ‘wedding bands’ tipped with worm also. Tomorrow should be another great day on the lake.
May 8 – Tunkwa Lake
Windy and whitecaps best sums up today! It was sunny and warm today, but huge southerly winds made fishing next to impossible. Anglers did get out for the first part of the morning fish and were rewarded with some nice catches. Water temps were recorded at 47 F this evening. On a more a positive note the wind died down to nothing at dusk and the weather forecast for the rest of the week is looking fantastic. A couple more degrees bump in the water temp, then look out!
May 7 – Tunkwa Lake
Today anglers were greeted with warmer temps, but stronger southerly winds, with a high temp of 19-C. the wind made it feel cooler. Many swallows on the water gave away the extent and locations of many hatches during late morning and mid day, anglers were observed keying in on the Chronimid, there was run of green Spradley flies disappearing from the store shelf today……. Many fish as well as swallows were observed in front of the Resort. Trollers appeared to do well today, again black/silver or frog coloured Hot Shots or Kwikfish put fish in the boat. Catches were also reported on red coloured “wedding bands” with worms. Surface water temp taken at 7 pm off the Tunkwa Lake Resort dock, read 46 F again. If the forecast holds, the warming trend the next couple of days should push water temps up and get the hatches going strong and steadier.
May 6 – Tunkwa Lake
Today anglers were greeted with a perfect morning, a nice light southerly breeze, and warm conditions, with a high of 20 C. Many swallows on the water gave away the extent and locations of many hatches during late morning and mid day, anglers keying in on the Chronimid hatches did well. Chronie patterns in “wonder bug” and “copper top” did well today. The wind picked up this afternoon forcing most anglers intothe more shelter bays. Trollers did well today as well, fishing black/silver Hot Shots, Kwikfish as well as catches reported on “wedding bands” and fender trolls. Surface water temp taken at 7 pm off the Tunkwa Lake Resort dock, read 46 F again.
May 5 – PM – Tunkwa Lake
Water temp was 46 F in front of the resort, a sunny day, with moderate winds, small hatches in late afternoon, fishing was tougher, but still good catches reported. Chronimid hatches in size 14 and 20 were observed in stomach pumped samples.
May 5 – Tunkwa Lake
Young Riley Galloway shows his dad how’s it done, part of his morning catch, taken on a slow trolled black and silver Kwikfish plug. Conditions are perfect this morning, light southerly breeze and lots of sunshine, should bring about a good hatch as the day progresses.
May 4 – Tunkwa Lake
After a calm sunny early morning, brisk NW winds and cooler weather made fishing a challenge. Chronimid hatches were very light today. Similar observations as yesterday, fish are very shallow, gorging on shrimp in the weeds. Some anglers reported very good catches today, despite tough weather conditions. Chronimid fishing was slow, with micro leeches in maroon/red or black/red fished very slowly producing fish.
May 3 – Tunkwa Lake
This morning found ideal conditions on the lake, calm, sunny and active fish. Water temps were 46 F, and chronimid hatches were well under way. Some unsettled weather passed through in the aft. Slowing things down at touch, but the eve fish was good again. Similar observations as yesterday, fish are very shallow, gorging on shrimp in the weeds. Some great reports of good numbers of fish today. Also Tunkwa Lake received it’s annual stocking today.
May 2 – Tunkwa Lake
Water temps off our dock mid day was 43 F. Todays weather started calm with spotty light drizzle in the morning, air temperature around 6 C. Sunny afternoon with temps to 10 C and moderate winds from the south west. The lake had a good hatch of chronimids in size 20 and 14, dark olive coloured. Fishing was very good this afternoon and evening, with the best action very shallow, just above emergent weed beds, fishing smaller olive or maroon coloured leech patterns, but fished extremely slowly, was productive. Also trolling with dark coloured Hot Shots or Kwikfish plugs produced fish today as well.
Click to see photos
May 1 – Tunkwa Lake
Weather conditions – cooler temps with a high of about 12 C, overcast skies with light winds from the east, the sun did not make an appearance.
Fishing was good today, with many fish caught by both artificial and bait anglers. Light Chrominid hatches occurred and fishing was most productive along the westerly shoreline. Fishing was best in shallow close to the bank….small green chrominid or ‘Chromie’ patterns under strike indicators worked well. K4 Kwikfish in frog colour or Size 70 Hotshots in black/silver were very productive today, trolled or casted to active fish. Many fish caught on worms under floats also. Surface activity in front of the resort was quiter tonight.
Fishing Report – May 1, 7:30 AM
Opening day on Tunkwa has finally arrived!!!!!Surface water temp was 41F(5C) (taken at the end of our dock). Air temps are the same (41F/5C). Overcast skies, with clouds rolling over the mountains, and a glass like lake surface right now.
Fishing pressure is very light with only a few boats on the water right now. Looks like it will be a great day to be out there. Fish should increase as soon as the sun gates on the water.
Ice Out – April 13
Things are looking up!
The ice is now completely off the lake, as of Friday evening, April 13th and big rainbows could be seen jumping four feet out of the water !
Tunkwa Lake
Chosen as one of the lakes that hosted the 1993 world fly fishing championship , Tunkwa is simply a great fishing lake.
Tunkwa is considered to be one of the richest of the interior lakes, it produces an absolutely huge chironomid hatch in the spring. Leeches, shrimp, and water beetles are the predominate invertebrates, however, damsels, dragons and sedges are present in good quantities. Spring and fall months offer the best fishing. Algae growth during the hot summer months makes fly fishing difficult so it is reccommended to fish deeper with shrimp or leech patterns at this time. Tunkwa produces good catches of rainbows up to 4 lbs. and better. Fall, just after the 1st. freeze while fish are stocking up for winter can offer exceptional fishing especially for the bigger rainbows.
