Five species of salmon, rainbow and Dolly Varden trout, steelhead, and even sturgeon abound in the local waters. To fish, you need a nonresident saltwater or freshwater license. Tackle shops sell licenses, have information on current restrictions, and often carry the B.C. Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Guide and B.C. Sport Fishing Regulations Synopsis for Non-tidal Waters. Independent anglers should also pick up a copy of the B.C. Fishing Directory and Atlas. The Vancouver Sun prints a daily fishing report in the B section that details which fish are in season and where they can be found.

Hanson's Fishing Outfitters, 102-580 Hornby St. (tel. 604/684-8988; www.hansons-outfitters.com), and Granville Island Boat Rentals, 1696 Duranleau St. (tel. 604/682-6287), are outstanding outfitters. Licenses for freshwater fishing are C$20 (US$15) for 1 day or C$36 (US$27) for 8 days for non B.C.-residents. Saltwater fishing licenses cost C$8 (US$6) for 1 day, C$20 (US$15) for 3 days, and C$35 (US$26) for 5 days. Bonnie Lee Fishing Charters Ltd., on the dock at the entrance to Granville Island (mailing address: 744 W. King Edward Ave., Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 2C8; tel. 604/290-7447), is another reputable outfitter and also sells fishing licenses.

If you go to Granville Island, be sure to stop by the Granville Island Sport Fishing Museum, 1502 Duranleau (tel. 604/683-1939).

Fly-fishing in national and provincial parks requires special permits, which you can get at any park site for a nominal fee. Permits are valid at all Canadian parks.