Indigenous Peoples History Culture & Legend
The area is also steeped in history and rich with First Nations History, Culture & Legend.
The history of Burns Lake is rich in First Nations history, culture,
and legend. Today Burns Lake is home to six First Nation bands
– Cheslatta Carrier Nation, Lake Babine Nation, Burns Lake
Band, Wet’suwet’en, Nee-Tahi-Buhn Band, and Skin Tyee.
First Nations lived in the Lakes District as hunters and gatherers.
Living from the land, the first inhabitants of this land have many
traditions that have carried through today. The societies of First
Nations in this area were historically matriarchal societies.
Their social and economic structure is, and has always been,
centered around the potlatch, an important celebration held at
major events, such as births, marriages, and deaths. Potlatches
were historically an important economic, political, and social
organization. Today, it remains an important aspect of the First
Burns Lake joins annually to celebrate this heritage on National
Indigenous Peoples Day. This day is held in recognition of
the important contributions that First Nations people have
made in our community and society. The day kicks off with a
parade, featuring elders, dancers, and drummers each wearing
beautifully handcrafted regalia.
If you are in the area on June 21 this year, be sure to join the
celebration and learn more about these important Native
cultural groups in our area. Stop by the Visitor Centre for
AUGIER LAKE is approximately 19 km long and is 32 km northwest of Burns Lake. Located a few miles past Pinkut Lake, it offers good char and trout fishing, a boat launch, and an attractive beach.
BABINE LAKE is located north of Burns Lake. It can be accessed by driving 34 km on Babine Lake Road, or by traveling west of Burns Lake on Highway 16 and then north on Highway 118 to Granisle. Babine Lake is 177 km (110 miles) long, making it British Columbia’s longest natural lake. Mountains and beautiful scenery surround this pristine body of water, and its shoreline is dotted with sheltered bays and secluded sandy beaches. The lake supports rainbow trout, ling cod, dolly varden, lake trout (char), sockeye salmon (fall spawning run), and several other minor species.
BINTA LAKE supports very ne char (up to 35 pounds) and rainbow trout shing. Located approximately ve km from Uncha Lake on good gravel road, this lake sports a boat launch. Excellent boating opportunities available as well. BULKLEY LAKE is located on the western edge of the Lakes Timber Supply Area, and supports healthy populations of rainbow trout.
BURNS LAKE is located parallel to Highway 16 approximately 226 km west of Prince George. This long, narrow body of water is part of the Endako River, a tributary of the Nechako. It has abundant trout and northern pikeminnow, as well as some char and ling cod. Boat launch, dock, and swimming area at Radley Beach, which is adjacent to the town’s free municipal campground.
CO-OP LAKE is located east of Burns Lake a short distance (4 km) north of Highway 16 on a good gravel road. This lake supports a population of eastern brook trout, and is known for excellent winter ice shing. Boat launch available. DAY LAKE, like Bulkley Lake, is located west of Burns Lake and can be accessed by forest service roads. It is prime rainbow trout habitat.
Fishing Rod Loan Program
With 3000 miles of fishing, it’s only fitting that the Rod Loan Program is available at the Burns Lake Visitor Centre. Sponsored by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of British Columbia, this program provides free fishing rods and tackle boxes for visitors to use – it’s as simple as borrowing
a book from the library!
If you’re visiting in the winter, ice fishing equipment is also available. Stop by the visitor centre or visit www.visitburnslake.ca for more information. Financial support provided by Rapala and the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.