BC Outdoors Magazine

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BC Outdoors Magazine

Your BC fishing and hunting authority since 1945. Every issue of BC Outdoors delivers ideas, inspiration and destinations you’ll enjoy.
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Tips, techniques and gear reviews are packed in to each and every issue. Featured in each issue are local stories, by local writers about species you are most interested in.

11/20/2024

When Imagination Takes Flight 🦅

Falconry is as old as civilization itself, but the passion it sparks is timeless. For Bob Smirfitt, the journey began at 16, inspired by a falcon’s flight and a young boy’s wild adventure. Today, Bob is not just a falconer—he’s a steward of a 60-century-old tradition thriving in British Columbia.

From the commitment of training to the reward of releasing a bird back into the wild, every aspect of falconry is a partnership built on trust, patience, and respect for nature.

Get the full story of falconry in BC:

https://www.bcoutdoorsmagazine.com/when-imagination-takes-flight-2/

11/13/2024

Saddle up, buckaroo – we’re going on a bison hunt.

Bison hunting in British Columbia isn’t for the faint of heart. Whether you’ve drawn a coveted LEH tag or joined a guided hunt, preparation is everything. As Timothy Fowler wrote in our November/December 2022 issue, “Every step in the process of this hunt is a challenge.” From selecting the right firearm to braving sub-zero temperatures, this pursuit demands skill, endurance, and a touch of luck.

Bison are no easy targets. These massive animals are quick to evade hunters, and their sheer size and resilience test even the most experienced outdoorsmen. For those who succeed, the reward is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a freezer full of prime meat, and maybe even a trophy for the mantle.

Did you have a chance to read this article from our 2022 November/December issue?

📸: Nick Trehearne

11/12/2024

with not one but two absolute sturgeon monsters! Over 9 feet long 🎣. These prehistoric giants can live for over 100 years and grow up to 12 feet in the Fraser River, making it one of the best places in the world for sturgeon fishing.

The Fraser is home to the white sturgeon, known for its impressive size and strength—perfect for anglers looking for a challenge. What’s the biggest sturgeon you’ve ever caught or seen? Drop your stories below!

11/10/2024

The great blue heron is one of BC’s best fish hunters, often found near lakes, rivers, and marshes where game fish thrive.

Known for their stealth, they feed on a variety of prey, including fish, small mammals, and amphibians—meaning their presence often points to healthy waters and strong fish populations.

Spotting a heron while hunting can signal a good location for other wildlife activity nearby. Keep an eye out for these expert hunters—they’re not only beautiful but also a valuable sign of a thriving ecosystem.

🎥: Jacquie Matechuk Photography

11/09/2024

After a successful grouse hunt, the kitchen awaits! 🦃

From cleaning tips to cooking methods, this guide covers it all. Did you know you can pluck feathers or simply step on the wings and gently pull up on the legs to keep the breast meat clean? Plus, don't skip the legs—especially on larger grouse, they have more meat than you'd think!

Discover flavor differences between ruffed and spruce grouse and learn how a simple milk soak can mellow out that gamey taste. Whether you're pan-frying, roasting, or trying grouse fajitas, this bird offers endless culinary options.

Dive in for expert tips that every hunter in BC should know!

https://www.bcoutdoorsmagazine.com/a-guide-to-grouse-in-the-kitchen/

11/04/2024

Have you checked out the BC Outdoors Magazine November/December 2024 issue, Testing Your Luck and Patience? This edition is packed with must-read content:

• A Light Sharpshooter
• Dissecting Cartridge Pressure
• Steelheading
• Wild Art
• Mini Mussels with Major Muscles
• Christmas Wishlist

If you’ve already picked up a copy, let us know which article caught your eye! If not, order your copy through the link below 🔗

https://shop.opmediagroup.ca/collections/bc-outdoors-magazine/products/bc-outdoors-magazine-november-december-2024

10/31/2024

From their first swim in freshwater streams to their journey back as adults, salmon complete one of the most challenging life cycles in nature. These resilient fish start as eggs in gravel beds, develop into fry, then smolts, before they venture into the open ocean.

Years later, they migrate back to their birth waters, braving currents and predators for a final act of survival and renewal. Hatcheries play a critical role in this cycle, supplementing natural stocks and supporting the sustainability of salmon populations.

For dedicated anglers, hatcheries are a reminder of the balance we maintain in these waters, ensuring that future generations will have the same opportunities to witness—and fish—these remarkable species.

🎥: _misskatiedee_

10/29/2024

Is there anywhere you would rather be then outside in nature?

🎥:

10/26/2024

From our September-October 2022 issue:

Hunting the elusive yet plentiful common snipe offers a unique challenge and tasty reward.

Found in marshes and damp fields across British Columbia, snipe are small and quick, blending seamlessly into their grassy habitats.

Their erratic flight demands a sharp eye and steady aim, but with luck, they can become a delicious addition to your table. 🐦🍴

Do you remember the article?

10/23/2024

Another monster sturgeon from 🎣

10/21/2024

What does fly-fishing mean to you? 🎣

📸:

10/16/2024

Moose in British Columbia come in various sizes, with three possible subspecies found across the province. While genetics show little difference, environmental factors make northern moose larger with more impressive antlers. For trophy hunters, subspecies classifications can impact record eligibility—so if you're after a record bull, heading north is your best bet.

This article is from our September-October issue! Read the full feature for more on BC’s moose subspecies and trophy hunting tips.

10/15/2024

Fall fishing in the Kootenays offers anglers some of the year’s best opportunities. As the water cools, fish like bull trout and rainbow trout become more active, making this an ideal time for targeting these species. 🎣

Lakes like Kootenay, Arrow, and Slocan are prime spots, while the Columbia and Kootenay rivers provide excellent fly fishing for trout. Adjust your technique to slower retrieves and consider using streamers or egg patterns for maximum success.

What’s your favorite fall fishing setup for these cold-water conditions? Let us know in the comments! ⬇️

📸: Rebecca Moore

10/10/2024

Caption this post 💭⬇️

📸: (follow her for some great hunting and outdoors content!)

10/07/2024

Mornings on the water 🦆

📸:

10/04/2024

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we wanted to share some easy and delicious recipes with you all.

Which of these meals would you enjoy the most?

For more wild game recipes, visit bcoutdoorsmagazine.com.

10/02/2024

For anglers, the fall salmon run is prime time. From September to November, chinook, coho, sockeye, and chum salmon return to BC rivers in massive numbers, offering some of the best fishing of the year.

Look for salmon staging in deeper pools just before they spawn—these fish are more likely to bite. Timing is crucial, as different species peak at various points; chinook early in September, coho hitting their stride later.

Gear up with heavier tackle to handle the strong currents and fish. Popular spots include the Vedder River, Stamp River, and the Fraser system.

📸:

09/27/2024

REPOST from

A year ago, in the Northern Great Bear Rainforest, this spirit bear was caught in a rare moment—emerging from the shadows to feast on salmon by the river. Watching her bright white fur stand out against the dark forest was nothing short of breathtaking. These moments truly remind us of nature’s beauty and power.

Spirit bears, or Kermode bears, are a rare subspecies of black bear found only in this region of British Columbia. What makes them so unique is their white fur, a result of a genetic mutation.

Revered by Indigenous cultures and protected within their remote habitat, they are a living symbol of the delicate balance between wildlife and their environment.

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Videos

The great blue heron is one of BC’s best fish hunters, often found near lakes, rivers, and marshes where game fish thrive. Known for their stealth, they feed on a variety of prey, including fish, small mammals, and amphibians—meaning their presence often points to healthy waters and strong fish populations. Spotting a heron while hunting can signal a good location for other wildlife activity nearby. Keep an eye out for these expert hunters—they’re not only beautiful but also a valuable sign of a thriving ecosystem. 🎥: Jacquie Matechuk Photography #GreatBlueHeron #BCWildlife #HuntingInsights #EcosystemBalance #BirdingBC #HunterKnowledge

From their first swim in freshwater streams to their journey back as adults, salmon complete one of the most challenging life cycles in nature. These resilient fish start as eggs in gravel beds, develop into fry, then smolts, before they venture into the open ocean. Years later, they migrate back to their birth waters, braving currents and predators for a final act of survival and renewal. Hatcheries play a critical role in this cycle, supplementing natural stocks and supporting the sustainability of salmon populations. For dedicated anglers, hatcheries are a reminder of the balance we maintain in these waters, ensuring that future generations will have the same opportunities to witness—and fish—these remarkable species. 🎥: _misskatiedee_ #bcoutdoorsmagazine #SalmonLifeCycle #FreshwaterFishing #SustainableFishing #AnglerLife #Hatchery #BCWildlife

Is there anywhere you would rather be then outside in nature? 🎥: @nature__barbie #bcoutdoorsmagazine

Another monster sturgeon from @fraserriverlodge_fishing 🎣 #SturgeonFishing #FraserRiver #FishingLife #CatchOfTheDay #FishingAdventure #AnglerLife #BigCatch

What does fly-fishing mean to you? 🎣 📸: @kathonthefly #bcoutdoorsmagazine #FlyFishing #FishingLife #BCOutdoors #OutdoorAdventure #CatchAndRelease

You never know what you will find in your back yard... 🦊 📸: @lanky_lauren #bcoutdoorsmagazine

We think Fraser River Lodge is onto something here... 🎣 #bcfishing #bcoutdoorsmagazine

@kathonthefly captured this great video of a trout in pristinely clear waters 🎣 Do you have a favorite trout fishing spot? #trout #bcoutdoorsmagazine

Beautifully clear waters trout fishing 🎣 What is your favourite fishing spots this time of year? 📸: @kathonthefly #bcoutdoorsmagazine #troutfishing

Experience the best of fishing with Confluence Outdoor and kayaks crafted with quality in mind! Find your next kayak today. Visit ConfluenceOutdoor.com and make sure to check out their Canada Day sale going on until July 4th. Special thanks to Pelican Products Wilderness Systems Perception Kayaks #wildernesssystemsfishingkayaks #perceptionkayaks #confluenceoutdoor

Catch of the week goes to Buzz Bomb & Zzinger Lures Inc! With this hard-earned victory as they reel in this impressive fish. 🎣🐟 #FishingAdventures #bcoutdoorsmagazine

Our friend Brian Chan at Go Fish BC discusses top tips for targeting the mid-water zone of a lake. Fly lines to use, best times of year to target the mid-zone, patterns, and casting tips are covered. #bcoutdoorsmagazine #freshwaterfishing