It’s a great time to observe one of nature’s transformative events in the streams and creeks of the Fraser Valley.
A “Salmon Spotting” map posted on a Pacific Salmon Foundation webpage is mapping out where to find some of the best locations in B.C. to see migrating salmon, with several spots in Chilliwack, Abbotsford and across the Fraser Valley.
“Witnessing Pacific salmon returning to our local creeks and rivers is an opportunity to observe one of nature’s great events in action,” said Michael Meneer, president/CEO of the foundation.
Now that the falls rains have arrived, the waterways are full of returning salmon. From now until early November, salmon-watchers can see migrating coho, chum, Chinook and steelhead in rivers, creeks and wetlands.
The drought, wildfires and warmer-than-usual temperatures of 2023 have a big impact on the fish attempting to make it back.
“This year’s returning salmon have felt the full force of climate change, but by coming together to see spawning salmon in our local communities, we can all be part of protecting the future of this iconic species,” Meneer said.
Recent rains have boosted water levels, allowing returning salmon to make a beeline for spawning grounds, following the same routes of their parents, using a keen sense of smell.
Posting observations with the hashtag #SalmonSpotting is one way the public a chance to enter the contest at psf.ca to win prizes, or by sharing favourite salmon spotting locations, either by submitting the location to PSF or by using the #SalmonSpotting hashtag on social media.
Here are some safety tips for salmon-spotters, like staying out of sensitive streambeds, and keeping dogs on leashes.
Fraser Valley locations on the map include:
Abbotsford
- Bateman Park
- McKay Creek Park/Sumas Dyke – McKay Creek Trail
Chilliwack
- Browne Creek Wetlands
- Chilliwack River – junction of Slesse Creek and Chilliwack River
- Peach Creek Rotary Trail – Lickman Road, Vedder River Parking Lot
- Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve
- Chilliwack River Hatchery
- Thompson Regional Park, Chilliwack River
Harrison Mills
- Harrison River – Walk Eagle Trail at Sandpiper Resort to salmon viewing area on Harrison River
- Chehalis River Hatchery, Morris Valley Road
Hope
- Thacker Regional Park, Union Bar Road, near Kawkawa Lake
Mission
- Norrish Creek and Inch Creek Hatchery on Bell Road in Dewdney
- Ruskin Recreation Site at Terravista Place
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