CAVERHILL LODGE SHOW PLACE OF THE BONAPARTE PLATEAU

by Don Robertson

Part III

Fish populations consist of native rainbow trout, reproducing in the many clear-running, gravelled streams which feed into these small lakes. The result is a super, active fish, and you can be fooled by an eight-incher when it acts like a much larger specimen. One writer/angler termed the Kamloops breed as "something apart from other trout ... it fights with unparalleled strength and stamina and a special reckless violence ..."

This fact is true on Big Grassy Lake where I had a nine-incher attack my lure with such vigor that it felt like a big fish. Conversely, a 17-inch trout took just minutes to boat, and it was far less aggressive than the smaller fish.

Those who prefer light spinning gear will find small Panther Martin, Rooster Tail, Mepps Spinners or Bang Tail lures are well received. But you may just be outnumbered by fly fishermen who make up 80 per cent of the Bonaparte Plateau angling fraternity!

Bob, a California angler, is an avid stream angler. He was initially apprehensive that lake fishing wouldn't measure up. After his few days at Caverhill, he volunteered that these lakes more than measured up to his expectations. Bob admitted he had experienced "some of the best, dry fly-fishing ever!"

Many Caverhill clients are annual visitors, and the guest book offers glowing remarks about both the quality of fishing and dining. One listed returnee is a 15-year veteran, while Bill Lazzarini chalked up his seventh consecutive visit.

Not many resorts can top a breakfast menu of French toast, made with thick French bread slices and eggs, dusted with powdered sugar, and topped with fresh strawberries and real cream, then served with bacon and fresh-squeezed orange juice. Our "sample" dinner consisted of home¬made mushroom soup, fresh rolls, curried chicken (as requested by Bill), wild rice and snow peas, followed by bananas flambe and good coffee.

Caverhill's fleet of stable wooden boats were built by veteran interior builder George Proctor. These hand-crafted, slim-line boats have been strategically placed for maximum use by lodge guests.

There are two plastic mallard ducks apparently "swimming" off the lodge dock, and these phoney fowl fool even the Caverhill bald eagle, who has more than once blunted his claws on the firmly anchored ducks. According to Marlene, one lady guest even tried to feed them while another spent a long time photographing the "wild" birds.

Caverhill can be described as providing an elegant fishing experience. Where else would your cosy log cabin feature a four-poster brass bed topped with an extremely comfortable mattress? And for added relaxation, try the sauna after a hard day of fishing.

Caverhill Lake is located approximately 130 km (1 1/2 hours by road) from Kamloops, which is served by scheduled air service, rail, and coach. Vehicle rentals are available from the airport. If you are feeling flush, a chartered floatplane will deliver you to the lodge dock in just 30 minutes.

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