Catch a Fish, Year Round
Campbell River Fishing Companies
Historically, First Nations flourished here in large part because of the abundance of salmon and, for the same good reason, over the past century Campbell River and the surrounding region has become known as 'The Salmon Capital of the World'.
The different migratory life cycles of these prized fish ensure year-round fishing here. Chinook can be caught 12 months of the year, and Coho are present in the fishery from late spring until fall. The other three salmon species spend much of their lives out in the open ocean, and are present only as they pass by while returning to their home rivers. Runs of sockeye salmon start in late June, with overlapping runs of pink and then chum salmon continuing until early November in some years.
Local guides will take you to where the fish are biting and supply you with the right gear for the right time. When the bites on, you want to be properly equipped! Bareboat charters are also available in
the area for those who feel they have a good understanding
of where to fish and what gear is appropriate.
Local sporting goods stores are a valuable source of information on what lures are currently hot and can fully outfit you with the best gear available on the market today for both salt and freshwater fishing, including fly fishing gear.
A new challenge has become increasingly popular in the region - salt-water fly fishing! Many anglers are now catching Coho and other species on light tackle. Try your luck during the first week of September through to the third week in October for excellent Coho saltwater fly fishing. From Big Rock to Black Creek on the Eastern
Coastline, you are sure to net a fish. From the beginning of July to October, Coho and Rockfish are accessible by boat along the West Coast shoreline.
Fly fisherman come from around the world to try their luck here for steelhead and other species of salmon. Local rivers are well populated with both wild and hatchery fish, ensuring plenty of opportunity to develop or exercise your skill and patience in an incredible natural environment. The Campbell Lake, Quinsam Lake and their river systems make perfect spawning grounds for Coho salmon in September through to November and Pink salmon from August to November.
If you should venture towards the West Coast of Vancouver Island be sure to stop along Hwy. 28 between Campbell River and Gold River for summer and winter steelhead and cutthroat trout.