Located in British Columbia’s rugged Tantalus Provincial Park, Lake Lovely Water is a destination that lives up to its name. I've had the privilege of visiting this glacial gem three times so far, each trip more memorable than the last. From the first sight of its turquoise waters, I knew this was a special place—not just for the stunning scenery but for its incredible fishing opportunities. Here's a recap of my adventures.
Oh before I forget, if you want to see fishing videos from this lake, I have three videos saved on my Fishsurfing profile in Video stories! Go to my profile, scrool down to the bottom and watch the following:
- Alpine lake fishing & camping
- Alpine lake trout
- Camping & fishing
Getting There: A Journey in Itself
Each trip to Lake Lovely Water has been an adventure due to the location of this lake. On my first visit, a friend and I crossed the Squamish River using inflatable boats—a thrilling start to an unforgettable 4 hour hike (approx. 1,200m of elevation gain). By the time we reached the lake, I was blown away by its beauty but quickly realized I’d made a rookie mistake: I hadn’t brought my fishing rod! The lake and the streams leading into it were teeming with trout, and I vowed to come back better prepared.
The following summer, I hired a motorboat to ferry me across the river (this saves approx. 2 hours), making for a more relaxed start to the 4-hour hike. This time, I brought my fly fishing setup and was rewarded with nonstop action.
Most recently, in the summer of 2024, I took my adventures to the next level. A helicopter dropped me and my girlfried off at the lake and returned two days later to pick us up. Flying over the park’s jagged peaks and glaciers was a breathtaking experience—and it left us more time to enjoy the pristine wilderness and fishing.
The Magic of Alpine Lakes
Alpine lakes like Lake Lovely Water are often stocked with Rainbow Trout, with fish dropped directly into the water by plane. Nature sometimes takes over, too—birds can transport fish eggs from lake to lake, depositing them in new waters.
Regardless of how the trout arrived, Lake Lovely Water is an angler's dream. Its glacier-fed waters create a stunning turquoise hue that shifts with the light. Camping here feels like stepping into another world. The campsite is right on a sandy beach where a cold mountain stream flows into the lake. This stream is a hotspot for fish, as trout gather to feed on insects and other nutrients carried downstream. It’s an ideal spot for fly fishing, with plenty of bites and excellent fights.
Catch and Release in Paradise
While park regulations allow for keeping a certain number of trout each day, I always release my catches here. One of the reasons is that fires are prohibited throughout the park, so cooking fish isn’t practical. Besides, preserving the lake’s ecosystem feels like the right thing to do when you’re surrounded by such pristine wilderness.
Tips for a Successful Trip
- Gear Up for the UV: The higher elevation means stronger UV rays, so I recommend packing a sun hoodie for protection. It’s a lifesaver on sunny summer days.
- Respect the Environment: Tantalus Provincial Park is a remote, delicate ecosystem. Pack out everything you bring in and follow all Leave No Trace principles.
- Enjoy the Moment: Fishing is just one aspect of the Lake Lovely Water experience. Take time to hike, swim, climb, or simply sit by the shore and soak in the views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
Lake Lovely Water and Tantalus Provincial Park offer an unparalleled combination of adventure, natural beauty, and world-class fishing. Each trip I’ve taken has left me eager to return, and I hope this inspires you to experience it for yourself.
Whether you cross the Squamish River by inflatable boat, motorboat, or helicopter, the journey is worth it. Just don’t forget your fly rod & of course, your fishing licence!
