The Okanagan is one of the few places in Canada where you can fish for very decent-sized Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass. 5-6 lb Smallmouth Bass and 6-7 lb Largemouth Bass are both attainable in the region, and there have been quite a few bass catches exceeding that. (The unofficial record exceeds 10 lb.)
That makes it a special destination for anyone passionate about bass fishing. At Tiber Outfitters, we’re based right here in Penticton, so we've helped many customers gear up to chase trophy-sized bass in our backyard.
If you’re wondering where the best lakes for bass fishing in the Okanagan are, here’s our local guide to the top 5 Okanagan lakes.
5. Shannon Lake
Located near West Kelowna, Shannon Lake is a smaller urban lake particularly popular with kids and families. Though it doesn't have trophy bass, it is surprisingly productive for both Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass. Early mornings and evenings are best, especially if you’re throwing soft plastics along the weedlines.
Photo by Tony Cangiano
4. Christina Lake
Alright, Christina Lake is technically in the Kootenays, but it’s close enough that many Okanagan anglers make the short trip over. Known as one of the warmest and clearest lakes in British Columbia, Christina is a Smallmouth Bass hotspot. Rock piles, drop-offs, and points are prime holding areas for bass, and it’s a popular destination for those chasing both size and numbers.
3. Vaseaux Lake
Just south of Oliver, Vaseaux Lake is a hidden gem for bass fishing in the Okanagan. With its shallow waters, abundant vegetation, and no motorized boats allowed, it’s a perfect environment for Largemouth Bass to thrive. The lake is smaller and quieter than the big-name waters, making it a favorite among kayak and canoe anglers looking for less pressured fish.
Photo by Tony Cangiano
2. Skaha Lake
Right next to Penticton, Skaha Lake is one of the top Smallmouth Bass fisheries in the valley. Rocky shorelines and drop-offs provide ideal structure for bass, and anglers regularly report great action throughout the summer months. With easy access, lots of fishing spots from shore, and a healthy population of bass, Skaha is a must-fish lake if you’re visiting Penticton.
Photo by Tony Cangiano
1. Osoyoos Lake
Without question, Osoyoos Lake is the crown jewel of bass fishing in the Okanagan. Straddling the Canada–U.S. border, this warm-water lake is famous for its trophy-sized Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass. The diverse habitat—from rocky points and sandy flats to submerged vegetation—means you can fish it a dozen different ways and still discover new hotspots. Osoyoos consistently produces some of the biggest bass in British Columbia, making it the number one choice for serious anglers.
Jared Kayal with his nice Osoyoos Lake Smallmouth Bass catch.
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Whether you’re chasing numbers, size, or just looking for a relaxing day on the water, the Okanagan offers some of the best bass fishing in Canada. From the quiet shallows of Vaseaux to the trophy potential of Osoyoos, there’s a lake here for every type of angler.
At Tiber Outfitters, we stock the gear that local bass anglers trust. Feel free to check out our catalog. We ship across North America and will deliver locally (in the Okanagan) same or next day at the latest.
Best Lures for Bass Fishing in the Okanagan
Having the right gear can make all the difference when you’re targeting Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass in Okanagan lakes. Here are some of the most effective lures we recommend at Tiber Outfitters:
1. Soft Plastics (Senko-Style Worms and Tubes)
These are a go-to for bass anglers everywhere, and they’re especially effective in the Okanagan. Rig them wacky-style along weed edges for largemouth or Texas-rigged when fishing heavier cover.
Consider also tubes. They are highly effective.
2. Crankbaits
For Smallmouth Bass in Skaha or Osoyoos, crankbaits are also a solid choice. They’re excellent in spring and fall or whenever bass are aggressively feeding.
3. Spinnerbaits
When you want to cover water quickly, spinnerbaits are your friend. They shine around weed beds and points, making them deadly in lakes like Vaseux or Skaha.
4. Topwater Lures
Nothing beats the excitement of a topwater strike, and the Okanagan’s warm summer mornings and evenings are perfect for it. Try poppers, walking baits, or hollow-body frogs in weedy areas such as Vaseux Lake or the East side of Skaha Lake.