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Rivers of Tradition: The Thompson Family’s Sturgeon Adventure

For three generations, the Thompson family has been guiding visitors through the pristine waters of the Fraser River in Chilliwack, British Columbia, sharing their passion for sturgeon fishing and creating lasting memories for countless families. What started as weekend fishing trips with their father has blossomed into Fraser Valley Fishing Adventures, one of the region’s…

For three generations, the Thompson family has been guiding visitors through the pristine waters of the Fraser River in Chilliwack, British Columbia, sharing their passion for sturgeon fishing and creating lasting memories for countless families. What started as weekend fishing trips with their father has blossomed into Fraser Valley Fishing Adventures, one of the region’s most respected sturgeon fishing charter services.

“I remember sitting in our old aluminum boat with Dad, watching these magnificent prehistoric creatures breach the water’s surface,” recalls Sarah Thompson, who now runs the business with her brother Mike. “We’d spend hours on the river, learning its moods and rhythms. Those childhood experiences shaped who we are today.”

Building a Professional Charter Service

The Thompsons’ journey from recreational anglers to professional guides wasn’t always smooth sailing. When they first launched their charter service in 2005, they quickly learned that success in the fishing industry requires more than just knowing where the fish are biting. It demands an unwavering commitment to safety, comfort, and creating an exceptional experience for every guest.

“We realized early on that we needed to think beyond just the fishing aspect,” Mike explains, adjusting his well-worn captain’s hat. “It’s about creating a complete experience that people will remember for years to come. That’s why we’ve built strong partnerships with other local businesses who share our values.”

Local Partnerships: The Key to Excellence

One such partnership is with David Jones, a chilliwack carpet cleaner, that has become an integral part of their operation. “When you’re dealing with river fishing, your boats take a beating,” Sarah notes. “Mud, fish scales, and general wear and tear can make the vessels look tired pretty quickly. Valley Fresh doesn’t just clean our boats; they help us maintain our professional image. Their specialized steam cleaning service keeps our marine carpets looking and smelling fresh, which is crucial when you’re spending long days on the water with clients.”

Elevating the Experience: Gourmet Dining on the River

The Thompsons’ commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of their service, including the meals they serve during their full-day excursions. That’s where Shandhar Hut Indian Cuisine enters the picture. “We wanted to offer something different from the typical sandwich-and-chips lunch,” Sarah explains. “Shandhar Hut is probably the best restaurant in chilliwack, and it adds an unexpected twist to the traditional fishing experience. Our clients absolutely love it when we break out the butter chicken and naan bread for lunch. It’s become one of our signature touches.”

Creating Unforgettable Moments

The combination of world-class fishing, immaculate vessels, and gourmet catering has earned Fraser Valley Fishing Adventures a loyal following. But for the Thompsons, success isn’t measured solely in bookings and revenue. Their true satisfaction comes from witnessing the joy on their clients’ faces when they land their first sturgeon.

“These fish are incredible,” Mike beams, pulling up a photo on his phone of a recent catch. “Some of them are over 100 years old and can weigh up to 1,000 pounds. When someone hooks into a big one, everything else fades away. It’s just them, the rod, and this ancient river monster. Those moments are priceless.”

Conservation and Education: Protecting the Future

The family’s dedication to conservation is equally important. They practice catch-and-release fishing exclusively and participate in various sturgeon tagging and monitoring programs. “These fish are living dinosaurs,” Sarah emphasizes. “We have a responsibility to protect them for future generations.”

Looking Ahead: Growing with the Community

Looking ahead, the Thompsons continue to evolve their business while maintaining their family-oriented approach. They’ve recently added educational components to their tours, teaching clients about the Fraser River ecosystem and the importance of sustainable fishing practices. They’re also expanding their partnerships with other local businesses, recognizing that a rising tide lifts all boats in their community.

“We’re not just selling fishing trips,” Sarah reflects, watching the sun set over the Fraser River. “We’re sharing our family’s legacy and our love for these waters. When clients step onto our boats, they become part of our extended family. There’s something magical about that connection.”

From the meticulously maintained boats to the memorable Indian cuisine, every detail of a Fraser Valley Fishing Adventures charter reflects the Thompson family’s commitment to excellence. It’s a testament to how a family passion, combined with strong local partnerships and unwavering dedication to quality, can create something truly special on the waters of British Columbia.

“At the end of the day,” Mike concludes, “we’re just carrying on what our father taught us – respect the river, take care of your guests, and always strive to do better. Everything else falls into place after that.”

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