Whistler's Lake Stocking History Revealed: From 1923 to 2026

In a recent piece by Bronwyn Preece for the Whistler Museum, the evolution of fish stocking in the lakes of Whistler is explored, inspired by a sighting of rainbow trout at Garibaldi Lake. The initial stocking of Alta Lake occurred in 1923 with 30,000 eggs from the invasive rainbow trout, which significantly impacted local ecosystems. This practice continued until 2000, with kokanee salmon introduced in 1939. Since then, under a catch-and-release policy, 350 cutthroat trout yearlings have been released almost every year. Between 1923 and 2026, Alta Lake has seen 52 stockings. Garibaldi Lake received rainbow trout eggs in 1928 and 1929, transported by horseback. Whistler, once a fishing hub, had Rainbow Lodge opening in 1915, offering a $6.00 'Fisherman's Excursion' from Vancouver. Fishing remains a popular activity, with local guides still active in 2026, and a sequel to the article is anticipated.