The Capilano River is a stunning North Vancouver fishery that winds through steep canyon terrain on the North Shore, offering anglers a remarkable urban wilderness experience just minutes from downtown Vancouver. Fed by the Capilano Reservoir impounded by Cleveland Dam, the river is a regulated tailwater system whose flows are managed for Metro Vancouver's drinking water supply — a factor that directly influences fishing conditions and safety. The fishable section of the river spans only several kilometres, running from the boundary just downstream of the Capilano River Hatchery to the river mouth, making it a compact but productive stretch of water. Despite its relatively short fishable length, the Capilano supports impressive runs of Pacific salmon, small returns of steelhead, and resident rainbow trout, drawing anglers from across the Lower Mainland and beyond. The canyon terrain creates dramatic scenery but also limits access, with private properties and dangerous cliff faces restricting entry to several key points. Even on slow fishing days, the combination of old-growth forest, canyon walls, and clear mountain water makes a trip to the Capilano a rewarding experience.