Roche Lake - Kamloops, BC

article and photos by J.Jelev

Roche is a popular lake with anglers not only from Kamloops but from other parts of British Columbia as well. It is the largest in a group of lakes within Roche Lake Provincial Park and known for its first class resort, two campsites and pretty cooperative rainbow trout of all sizes. Situated at an altitude of over 1,100 meters, Roche is usually ice free by the middle of May.

Early season on the lake can be quite good for both fly fishing and spin casting.  Shore access is, however, very limited due to the character of this lake as well as private lands on its south end; boat is a must. Rainbow trout in this lake can grow big and many fish over 12lb have been caught. Fly fishermen should carry chironomid, cadis, dragonfly, scud and mayfly imitations. If fish are not rising they are likely deeper; try a sinking line and let your fly get down near the bottom.

Both campsites are quite busy after mid May.  This translates into high fishing pressure and many boats on the water on a good day.  Some anglers do well, and some do exceptionally well.

If you prefer solitude and quieter environment, you will be able to find them just minutes away from Roche.  There are many lakes in the neighborhood that see only the occasional angler. Roche, Tulip, Black and Horseshoe have brook trout in them in addition to rainbows. Bog Lake is a little further away and has brook trout. John Frank, Frisken, Bullman, Earnest and Bleaker are good rainbow trout lakes.

Encounters with moose and deer are frequent.  The forests in the park grow edible wild mushrooms but do not take chances unless you know them well.

Roche is off limits to ice fishing, but that still leaves plenty of lakes within 10 min that are excellent wintertime producers.

You can reach Roche from Kamloops over HWY 5A to Merritt.  Roche Lake road starts at the end of Shumway lake, at about 20km from the city. The road is well maintained in all seasons. It is one of the roads I go on with my 2 WD without any hesitation.

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