Paul Lake's Summer Tourism Gold Rush
Paul Lake near Kamloops drives BC's summer tourism economy through fishing, boating & recreation despite weather challenges and swimmer's itch.
Paul Lake BC
By Elke Porter | WBN News British Columbia | July 24, 2025
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Paul Lake, located near Kamloops on traditional Indigenous territory, is just one example of British Columbia's multi-million dollar summer recreation economy. This picturesque destination on land owned by Tkʼemlúps te Secwépemc, abbreviated TteS and previously known as the Kamloops Indian Band, generates substantial revenue streams through diverse tourism activities including fishing, camping, and water sports.
British Columbia possesses one of the best freshwater fisheries in North America.
With over 20,000 lakes and 750,000 kilometres of fishable rivers and streams,
the province is an angler’s paradise. Paul Lake is one of the larger lakes at 390 hectares in area and dives to 180 feet deep. BC also has mountain-top alpine fisheries. Remote rivers surrounded by ancient forests. Easily accessible
lakes fringed by golden grasslands. The diversity of both geography and angling
opportunities that locals and visitors are able to enjoy in BC is truly unique around the world.
The business model proves remarkably resilient, as demonstrated during a recent vacation in August. Despite challenging conditions including swimmer's itch and duck itch—seasonal parasitic irritations in warm lake waters—visitor numbers remained strong. The lake's appeal transcended weather volatility, with tourists embracing everything from sun-drenched mornings to dramatic afternoon storms featuring wind, rain, and fog. This weather diversity actually enhanced the destination's marketability, offering varied experiences that keep visitors returning. The unusual rainfall kept the area green and might even have prevented fires from starting.
The commercial ecosystem surrounding Paul Lake operates on multiple revenue tiers. Primary income streams include fishing license sales, with anglers pursuing rainbow trout and lake trout generating consistent government revenue. Equipment rental businesses flourish through motorboat, kayak, and flat boat rentals, while specialized shallow-water vessels open previously inaccessible fishing areas. Professional guide services command premium rates, creating high-value employment opportunities for local residents. Camping and accommodation fees provide steady baseline revenue, supplemented by retail sales from tackle shops, convenience stores, and restaurants.
British Columbia's lake-based recreation industry contributes approximately $2.8 billion annually to the provincial economy, with destinations like Paul Lake representing significant market share. The sector supports over 42,000 jobs across equipment manufacturing, hospitality services, transportation, and direct tourism operations. Insurance, maintenance, and seasonal employment create additional economic multiplier effects that ripple through rural communities.
This season's fire-free conditions proved economically crucial, as wildfire smoke can devastate lake tourism revenue by forcing evacuations and creating hazardous air quality. Previous fire seasons have caused 60-80% revenue drops at affected recreational sites. The clear skies and fresh air experienced this year allowed Paul Lake's full economic potential to flourish, with occupancy rates reaching near-capacity levels and equipment rental businesses reporting their strongest season in recent years.
The Indigenous-managed approach to Paul Lake demonstrates sustainable business practices that could serve as a model for similar destinations. By balancing traditional stewardship values with modern tourism demands, the operation maintains environmental quality while maximizing economic returns. This management philosophy ensures long-term viability, protecting the resource base that drives ongoing profitability while respecting cultural heritage and environmental sustainability principles that increasingly matter to modern consumers.
Connect with Elke at Westcoast German Media or on LinkedIn: Elke Porter or contact her on WhatsApp: +1 604 828 8788. Public Relations. Communications. Education.
Tags: #Paul Lake BC #Kamloops Lakes #BC Tourism #Lake Life #Summer Recreation #Indigenous Lands #WBN News British Columbia #Elke Porter
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