Puntzi Lake Fishing Derby

July 7-9, 2006

Kids love the annual Puntzi Lake fishing derby as the they can catch fish by the pound. This derby accepts coarse fish which are easy to catch, and the winner is measured by the total pounds caught. Adult prizes are awarded for the largest rainbow and largest kokanee caught.

The event runs July 7 to 9 and this year will be hosted by Puntzi Lake Resort. To find out more about the fishing derby call Michael Davis from Puntzi Lake Resort at (800) 578-6804.

Last year (2005) the derby was hosted by Rob Steeves, owner of Howdy's Lakeside Resort, and he offers up some of his tips for fishing this lake.

Rainbow trout up to 22 inches are common in this lake. Steeves preferred fly patterns are the mosquito and mayfly and recommends casting these dry flies towards the rising trout, adding that bubbles on the surface show the fish are feeding on floating insects.

Popular lures used include a willow leaf with wedding band and worm, as does the Len Thompson 5 of Diamonds lure.

 
LAKE ACCESS

From Williams Lake, follow Highway 20 west, about 65 km past Alexis Creek, to the turnoff to Puntzi Lake. Turn right (north) and follow this road for about 11 km until you reach the western shore of Puntzi Lake.

There are five resorts on Puntzi Lake:

• Barney's Lakeside Resort no website
• Howdy's Resort
• Kokanee Bay Resort
• Popular Grove Resort
• Puntzi Lake Resort Derby host in 2006
• To reach any of these resorts by phone, call 1 (800) 578-6804.

There is a Forest Recreation site off the main road which is RV accessible. The site comes with six vehicle units and a cartop boat launch.

NOTE: Symbols shown on map are not exact locations of resorts/rec site. Contact local resorts for specific locations.