A peaceful day by the river can be so therapeutic. Holding onto a fishing rod while listening to the cool flow is something I always long for when I am not fishing. Unfortunately, such luxury is too often being tampered by a few inconsiderate users who regard the river bank as the super highway of their indestructible SUV's.

The lower section of Squamish River is excellent for chum and pink fishing due to its close proximity to the ocean. Waves of fresh fish arrive soon after the rising tide each day during prime period. I love to stand on the river bank before dawn, wade into the river under the shadow of the tall cliffs and await for that first bite. The scream of my reel that breaks the morning silence is worth getting up early for. These days that sound is hard to come by, as it is usually replaced by the sound of roaming trucks.

Easy access to the river bank means many do not hesitate before plowing their 4X4's down to the gravel bar. On any given morning, a parade of these oversized monsters arrives just after dawn. They line up along the bank as they would in a parkade. The occupants usually quickly jump out and speed to the water as they have never fished before. Instead of seeing shrubs and trees behind me, I am now staring at clumps of metal.

What's even more depressing is the fact that some choose to take their mobility one step further. They roam down the river bank speedily so they can pick out the best spot for themselves. Such selfish act does not only ruin other people's days, but also damages the riparian zone. Having a two tonne truck scraping up gravel behind me isn't exactly how I define the perfect nature experience.

I seldom fish this stretch of Squamish River these days because of these inconsiderate acts. The City of Squamish is considering setting up blockades once again to close off access to gravel bank. Let's hope those are set up before the pinks return in August. In the meantime, please! Showcase your 4X4 ability on the dirt track, for our blood pressure's sake.

Rodney Hsu
Webmaster

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