A 'reel' good time!
On a cloudy November day, our team headed to Shelter Bay for a day of fishing on Arrow Lake. We found Jen from Grit n Glory Guided Fishing waiting with her 1825 Kingfisher Falcon - an epic little boat. We climbed in, put our seltzers and sausages in the cooler and set out hoping to find some bull trout.
Who is Jen?
Jen grew up in Revelstoke and has been fishing since she can remember. Wanting to see change in the community, she became a Director of the Revelstoke Rod & Gun Club in 2021 where she focuses on youth engagement. Getting kids fishing is an integral part of keeping the sport alive and creating the next generation of ethical and accomplished anglers.
After taking her boys on a guided boat trip, Jennifer knew she had found something special. A spark she never knew existed. It felt like 'home' on the water. She knew she would own a boat one day so she could live this passion with her boys.
Today she owns her boat. Not only does she share her passion with her boys but she is a fast approaching contender in the fishing industry, catching big fish on bucktails she ties herself.
What to expect.
Putting out into the lake, Jen headed straight for some of her favourite spots. Once the lines were in, we learned how to read her fish spotter and got excited each time a large bull trout shaped pattern showed up on the screen. Jen told us about her long history in Revelstoke and dreams to spend summers on the ocean. Taking in the beautiful scenery and chatting away, we almost forgot we were fishing. Then the lines started buzzing.
"I'm all about showcasing Revelstoke's epic scenery from a viewpoint that not many get to see, creating lasting memories while sharing my love of the sport, and turning each trip into a badass adventure with rad people!"
Jennifer bowden
Why a fishing guide?
Have you ever tried asking locals for their fishing spots? It doesn't work out too well. In addition to accessing a guides local knowledge, you'll be supporting a small business and ensuring that your catch limits and other regulations are met.
They'll also gut your catch and tell you their favourite ways to cook it. We took Jen's recommendation when we got home and oven baked our bull trout with a dill butter sauce.
What a day!
don't forget your fishing license!
Before you head out to your favourite fishing spot, make sure that you have your provincial freshwater Fishing Licence.
Licences can be purchased:
- Online from Freshwater Fishing E-Licensing
- In person from Licence Vendors
In Revelstoke, you can purchase a licence from Johnny's Wild Outdoors.
Revelstoke's Local Food System
To help people get to know the elements or assets of the Revelstoke local food system Community Connections created the Revelstoke Food Asset Map, showcasing producers, suppliers, educators, and more.
View the Food Assset Map