For 45 years, the Victoria-based Haig Brown Fly Fishing Association has supported fly fishing in the south Island, providing learning opportunities for members and supporting conservation efforts and education.
This spring, the club also released a new map for anglers that charts the Cowichan River’s course from Lake Cowichan to the estuary at Cowichan Bay. Among the highlights are trails and access points, restricted areas, small craft take-out and launch points, a potentially dangerous area around Skutz Falls and local place names for fishing spots.
With all proceeds from sales supporting the association’s conservation efforts and student scholarships, the map is available through the club and from Island outdoors and fishing retailers, including Island Outfitters and Robinson’s Sporting Goods in Victoria, Lake Cowichan Fly and Tackle, and Bucky’s Sport Shop and Gone Fishin’ in Duncan.
As the oldest fishing club on Vancouver Island, the association’s conservation efforts reflect its namesake, author, fly fisher and conservationist Roderick Haig-Brown. From his home in Campbell River, Haig-Brown was a passionate early advocate for the protection of the natural world.
Over more than four decades, club members have participated in numerous conservation efforts, including a steelhead study on the Goldstream River, stream and bank rehabilitation and fish population surveys on Tetayut Creek (Shady Creek), dam maintenance on Forebay Lake in the Jordan River area, and Colquitz River rejuvenation.
The club also supports complementary efforts of the organizations such as the B.C. Federation of Fly Fishers, BC Wildlife Federation, the Pacific Salmon Foundation and the Amalgamated Conservation Society.
Beyond conservation initiatives, club members also enjoy fishing excursions and learning opportunities to hone their skills.
To learn more or to get involved with the club, visit haigbrown.ca.
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This story first appeared in Outdoors West, showcasing outdoor adventure opportunities on Canada’s West Coast.
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