Who We Are

Houston’s
History

Houston is shaped by its land and the people who call it home.

Practical, welcoming, and deeply connected to the place they live, this community values hard work, time well spent, and the satisfaction of earning your experience in breathtaking surroundings. When you visit, you’ll find a town that’s friendly and down-to-earth. The people here are open, ready to share a story, point you in the right direction, or offer a warm welcome after a day outdoors.

Houston offers lots of space to explore—whether you’re fishing its rivers, hiking its trails, or paddling the iconic Nenikëkh/Nanika-Kidprice canoe route. Snowmobilers, Nordic skiers, and snowshoers discover fresh tracks and quiet places in winter. 

For those who prefer to be inside, local shops, restaurants and recreation facilities tick the boxes. Here, life is honest and direct, and we welcome you to enjoy it.

SNAPSHOT OF HOUSTON HISTORY

  • Railway Beginnings: In the early 1900s, Houston became a tie-cutting centre for the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, supporting the construction of this key transportation route.
  • Incorporation: Officially incorporated as a village on March 4, 1957, Houston developed into a hub for forestry and mining, industries that continue to shape the community today.
  • Population: Approximately 3,100 people live in Houston, with another 1,000 in the surrounding rural areas.
  • Modern Identity: Known as the Steelhead Capital of the World, Houston blends its industrial heritage with stunning natural surroundings and a welcoming community spirit.

A REEL BIG STORY

At 60’ tall and 800lbs, Canada’s largest fly rod isn’t just a landmark—it’s Houston’s story.

It all started as a napkin sketch by local fly fisherman Warner Jarvis, inspired by Houston’s title as The Steelhead Capital of the World. From there, the community came together: 470 hours of donated equipment time, 574 hours of volunteer labour, and contributions from 41 local businesses turned the idea into reality.

Built from anodized aluminum to mimic graphite, the rod features a 36” reel, a 21” Skykomish Sunrise fly, and a tapered leader made of weed-eater cord. On May 5, 1990, volunteers carried the finished rod through town to its spot beside the Visitor Centre, closing the highway to celebrate. Locals even bought $5 “shares,” owning a centimetre of the rod.

The fly rod stands as a testament to Houston’s ingenuity and roll-up-your- sleeves community spirit—a project that proves small towns can pull off big things.