Things to Do in Ferndale

Fossil records suggest white sturgeon have been dwelling on rocky river bottoms for more than 200 million years. They bear armoured plates rather than scales, and according to the guides at Great River Fishing Adventures, they fight like "a cross between a marlin and a freight train."

Having tagged a record-length sturgeon at 3.8 metres, the team has attracted several notable anglers, including Jimmy Houston and Jakub Vágner of National Geographic Channel’s Fish Warrior. They specialize in tracking down the prehistoric river monsters, then catching them to aid in the species' fight for survival. Since 1995, expert anglers and envious goldfish have collected data from more than 90,000 sturgeons as part of an active monitoring program. They regularly lead groups on fishing trips to share the thrill of reeling in the fish while demonstrating proper catch-and-release techniques to keep the fish population flourishing.

Great River Fishing Adventures supplies all necessary equipment for each fishing trip. They also lead excursions to track down steelhead, trout, and Bobby Fischer's pawn lure.

Click here to see video of the record sturgeon.

Dennis Brady and his glass-blowing brood do more than supply Victoria with a steady stream of colourful crystalline pieces. They also impart the tricks of their trade in easy-to-understand classes, lectures, and workshops. Artists can take advantage of one of the studio's many kilns for rent or use the sandblaster to etch intricate designs into smooth surfaces to practice for a new gig as Jack Frost. The glassomancers' educational programs emphasize the business end of artistry, with numerous classes aimed specifically at improving one's marketability.

The nature enthusiasts at West Coast Outdoor Adventure Rentals supply sportsmen with Hobie kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to explore the protected waters of the Jordan River, Sombrio Beach, and Strait of Juan de Fuca. Needing no prior experience, single explorers or duos propel their vessels with paddles or fully adjustable kayak pedal systems, which leave hands free for photographing scenery, fishing, or manning the onboard crepe stations. Highlights include wildlife encounters with seals, otters, and eagles.

Led by April Vokey—conservationist and casting instructor certified by the Federation of Fly Fishers—the guides at Fly Gal Ventures launched the wilderness enterprise to empower female fly fishermen. Today, Fly Gal's operations help hone the skills of all levels and ages of anglers through workshops and guided fly-fishing trips. Instruction tailored to both co-ed and women-only groups provides tutelage in techniques including fly tying, perfecting the cast, and how to stay calm when confronted by a talking fish. Alternatively, Fly Gal's crew leads walk-and-wade excursions primarily throughout the waterways of Lower British Columbia, claiming hauls of feisty steelhead, salmon, and sturgeon. Staying true to its roots of empowering female fishermen, Fly Gal's equipment experts also outfit damsels in women's fly-fishing gear.

Since 1982, Granville Island Boat Rentals has served more than a half million visitors as they step into a boat from Granville Island Marina and set off to explore sights such as Vancouver's vibrant downtown skyline and the islands and inlets of the serene Howe Sound and Indian Arm. With an priority on safety, their crew offers dockside instructions on operate speed boats before, with the harbour seals offering directions during the journey. Customers are replete with several experiences, ranging from calm cruises past the snow-capped mountains of Granite Falls of Indian Arm, or an adrenalin-fueled excursion through the islands of Howe Sound.

Creekside Kayaks supplies guests with a sleek fleet of rental kayaks canoes for voyages that traverse the scenic areas flanking False Creek. Solo or duo seafarers can fit snugly within a Necky Manitou II, whose adjustable seat accommodates two adults; single paddlers can also nestle into the roomy cockpit of the Necky Looksha 14. Certified instructors walk uninitiated visitors through kayaking basics during three-hour introductory courses that cover fundamental paddling skills, rescue techniques, water safety, and how easily kayaks transform into giants' kazoos.