Stuart River: Paddling and Fishing British Columbia’s Wild Waterway

Overview of Stuart River

Stuart River drains Stuart Lake southeastward for roughly 110 kilometres through the Nechako Plateau before joining the Nechako River near Vanderhoof. Its gentle gradient and clear, tea-stained water create ideal conditions for multi-day canoe trips and productive angling amid stands of spruce, pine and aspen.

What to See and Do

Paddling Routes

Put in at the Stuart Lake outlet near Fort St. James and drift downstream through a sequence of quiet pools and Class I-II riffles. The 45-kilometre reach to the highway bridge at Vanderhoof takes three to five days and passes several sandy beaches suitable for overnight camps. Shorter day trips are possible from roadside pullouts along Highway 27.

Fishing

The river supports healthy runs of Chinook and sockeye salmon in late summer, plus resident rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. Drift fishing with yarn or spoons from a canoe or casting from gravel bars yields consistent results. Always verify current regulations and obtain the required British Columbia fishing licence before heading out.

Wildlife Viewing

Moose often wade the shallows at dawn and dusk; black bears forage along the banks in berry season. Bald eagles and osprey nest in tall cottonwoods, while the surrounding forests host northern goshawks and pileated woodpeckers. Carry binoculars and maintain a respectful distance.

Getting There

Access begins in Fort St. James, 160 kilometres northwest of Prince George via Highway 27. From there a short drive reaches the Stuart Lake boat launch. Additional entry points lie along Highway 27 south of Vanderhoof and at the confluence with the Nechako River. A high-clearance vehicle is helpful for rough launch ramps, but most sites are reachable by standard cars in summer.

Best Time to Visit

July through early September offers the warmest water temperatures and longest daylight for paddling. Salmon runs peak in August and September; spring runoff in May and June provides higher flows for experienced paddlers but colder water. Winter visits are limited to ice fishing or snowshoeing from nearby roads.

Nearby Attractions

Combine a river trip with a visit to Fort St. James National Historic Site, which preserves a restored Hudson’s Bay Company post. Stuart Lake itself offers additional boating and angling, while the town of Vanderhoof provides supplies and the Nechako White Sturgeon Conservation Centre.