Fishing in Campbell River
For the First Nations people of Canada’s West Coast, salmon have been central to a way of life since the beginning of time. In keeping with natural cycles of return and release, visitors have flocked to Campbell River, the Salmon Capital of the World, for decades in search of unbeatable fishing experiences. Nestled on the northeast coast of Vancouver Island where smaller islands cluster at the narrowing of Discovery Passage, Campbell River shows off a unique spot where rivers meet ocean.
Saltwater Fishing
Fishing here is all about the experience of getting out on the water and enjoying the diversity and beauty of our coastal landscapes. As you cruise along looking for the best spot to cast your lines, you will witness the beauty of the Discovery Islands, remote inlets, coastal waterfalls and ocean rapids. In addition to the landscape keep a keen eye out for the wildlife that inhabits these waters, during the summer months orca’s and humpback whales are commonly sighted as well as pods of Pacific White-Sided dolphins, bald eagles and many other animals. See it with your own eyes and you’ll know, this is the place you want to be.
In true temperate coastal style, sport-fishing is available throughout the entire calendar year, with experienced, professional guides that know all about the tides, tackle and tricks. Though salmon tend to be the show-offs, other species such as steelhead, plough the waters. There are 5 species of Pacific Salmon: Chinook, Chum, Coho, Pink and Sockeye. Campbell River is unique in that you can catch all five species! You might be thinking, “Hey! What about Tyee, King, Spring, or Silver?” These are all common names used by our southern neighbours and are based on size or appearance. (The first three are Chinook, and Silver is another name for Coho.) There are also opportunities to both crab and prawn in our waters.
Freshwater Fishing
Fish for salmon as they gather along the ocean coastline and follow their journey up through freshwater rivers. Winter steelhead can be found in local river systems within driving distance of Campbell River in early January through April, with summer runs going from July through to the end of November. Many anglers enjoy the character and challenge of learning the geography of the rivers and ocean waters themselves, but if you’re new to the sport, or our calm protected waters, hire a charter guide for a fun and informative experience.
Any angler worth their salt will be wary about giving up their favourite locations. That being said, there are popularly known locations throughout the region and we’ve got two of the hottest ones: the Quinsam River and the Campbell River central to town. They have 4 of the 5 species of Pacific salmon, along with sea-run cutthroat trout and steelhead. The Campbell River is 4 km long and the entire river is full of salmon; Chinook, Chum, Coho, and Pink populate the waters here. Fly-fishing is allowed everywhere on the river, but exclusive fly-fishing zones are located above the pump house, making it a haven for enthusiasts of the sport.
The mantra here is to respect the waters and respect each other. Follow that and you’ll have an unforgettable experience.
Fishing Charters
Filter Listings
Fish processing services ( filleting/ freezing/smoking/processing)
Flurer Custom Smokehouse & Processing
5722 Menzies Way, Campbell River BC
250-286-4945
High Tide Seafoods
708 Island Hwy, Campbell River BC
250-850-4121
St. Jeans Cannery & Smokehouse
581B 11th Ave, Campbell River BC
250-287-2457
Campbell River Seafoods & Locker
1900 North Island Hwy, Campbell River BC
250-287-4121
Styro Containers
- River Sportsman
2115 Island Hwy, Campbell River BC
250-286-1017
- Tyee Marine
880 Island Hwy, Campbell River BC
250-286-3641