During the early period of settlement on southern Vancouver Island, the abundance of fish and wildlife was abused and overused.  Concern for the future of fish and wildlife spread.  Immediately after World War I, a group of Victoria citizens, many of whom were returned servicemen, formed an association with the objective of protecting and conserving fish and wildlife.

The Victoria Fish and Game Protective Association (the Club) was incorporated on June 16, 1919.  Since that time the Club has influenced governments in the wise use of fish, wildlife and natural resources.  Much of this effort today is conducted through our affiliate, the B.C. Wildlife Federation.

In 1946, the Club leased land on the Goldstream Estuary from the City of Victoria as the site of the clubhouse and  .22 rifle and trap facilities.  The clubhouse was completed midsummer of 1947.

In 1972 the Club's leased property was taken over by the province of B.C. and added to Goldstream Park.  The Club's last social event in the Goldstream clubhouse was a New Year's Eve dance in 1974.

The Club purchased 166 acres at the top of the Malahat in 1969 in anticipation of government expansion of Goldstream Park.  With the closure of our Goldstream facilities in 1975, the Club moved operations to our Malahat location and began long-term development of new facilities.

Club Facilities

The Club's facilities on Holker Place at the top of the Malahat have something for everyone.  Our best attribute is a forest setting of Douglas fir and arbutus overlooking Saanich Inlet.

Clubhouse  Our clubhouse has ample room for meetings, dancing and relaxing with friends in front of a large fireplace.  Meal preparation is easy thanks to a fully equipped kitchen, while a covered BBQ pit sits just outside.  The clubhouse is wheelchair accessible.  Washrooms and showers are also available.

Range house  Located behind the rifle range, the range house is ideal for small meetings and training sessions.  It includes locked storage, fireplace and kitchen.

Shotgun range  Located in front of the clubhouse, the shotgun range incorporates five trap houses and a skeet layout with a 75-foot duck tower.  We have voice activation for 4 traps.  A shoot to note is our annual Boxing Day Turkey Shoot.

Rifle and Pistol Range   The 2 ranges are located side by side in the mid-level area of the property.  The Rimfire range has target rails at 25 and 50 yards. The rifle range has 8 covered stations with target rails at 25, 50, 100, 200 and 275 yards.  Small-bore rifle metallic silhouette rails are at 40, 60, 77, and 110 meters.

Multipurpose Range   Located on the south side of the property, this range is designed to accommodate multiple handgun activities.

Archery Range   Located below the caretaker's residence and the rifle range, bow shooters have access to both a standard target range and a 1km archery trail walk.

Blackpowder  shoots are held on the rifle and pistol range monthly.  Shooters usually participate in "frontier" dress.  The annual 3 day rendezvous takes place in August.

Knife and Hawk trail  For those who wish to try their hand at throwing a knife or tomahawk, a trail and targets exists below the rifle range.

Frog Hollow  Located near the main entrance, this is the Club's campground.  Campsites are situated around a pond where swimming, fishing and casting practice may be pursued.

Caretaker   The permanent Caretaker's residence is located near the entrance gate and sign in station. And opposite frog hollow.  Day passes for non-members, memberships, targets, and other information is available from the caretaker.  Daily operating hours for all ranges and trails are posted at the sign-in station.