Our coasts offer fishing for wild Pacific salmon, halibut and ground fish running thousands of kilometres from north to south, are unrivalled. British Columbia’s coastal waters and the fishing to be found in them are the jewels in our province’s wilderness crown, there is no other place like them in the world.
COASTAL FISHING STORIES FROM ACROSS BC
COASTAL FISHING TRIP IDEAS
Day Charters in Prince Rupert
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COASTAL FISHING
Day Charters out of Prince Rupert
Get a Taste of the North Coast Fishing Experience
Prince Rupert has a long fishing history and getting out on the water while in the region should be on every visitor’s bucket list.
While many visitors to Prince Rupert do dedicate multiple days of their trip to fishing, there are plenty of opportunities to also book a single day trip.
Regardless of your level of experience, you can trust that the knowledgeable local charter guides will be able to provide you with a great experience.
And remember, going out on a fishing trip is about so much more than just catching fish. Taking in the sights of the rugged Northern coastline or viewing whales and other marine mammals is all part of the North coast experience.
For a comprehensive list of Charter operators visit www.visitprincerupert.com/business-listings/
Winter Chinook Sunshine Coast
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COASTAL FISHING
Winter Chinook Salmon Fishing around Powell River
British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast offers year-round opportunities for saltwater Chinook salmon fishing. From the months of October through March, winter (also referred to as “feeder”) Chinook salmon are readily caught in BC’s coastal waters. Averaging slightly smaller than their migratory counterparts, winter Chinooks will reside in bays, inlets and channels along British Columbia’s coastline.
The waters surrounding Texada and Harwood Islands provide both prime structure for baitfish and salmon alike, and offer shelter and flat water when heavy trade winds are present. What was originally founded as an industrial center, Powell River is now a renowned eco-tourism driven destination rich in scenery and fishing opportunity.
Sunshine Coast Salmon and Halibut
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COASTAL FISHING
Sunshine Coast Salmon and Halibut Fishing with OTB Charters
OTB, or “over the beach”, is a military term that translates to “will still work when wet”. This acronym perfectly describes owner Simon Hayter’s dedication to giving guests the best possible Sunshine Coast fishing experience. The Sunshine Coast is renowned as one of British Columbia’s most untouched regions, with rugged coastline and glistening Pacific salt water. Scenery aside, the Sunshine Coast’s year-round presence of Chinook salmon make it blatant why the Sunshine Coast is one of B.C’s most attractive saltwater fishing destinations. Dotted with islands and small inlets, the Sunshine Coast is a productive fishery for all five species of Pacific salmon as well as halibut, ling cod and a multitude of bottom species. OTB Charters operate out of the quaint, modestly-sized town of Pender Harbour, offering half-day and full-day saltwater fishing charters; OTB is fully outfitted with a multitude of fishing crafts to create a safe and comfortable experience on the water.
Ucluelet Salmon and Halibut
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COASTAL FISHING
Ucluelet Salmon and Halibut Combo Trip
A west coast saltwater experience on Vancouver Island's Pacific Rim
The coastal waters of Ucluelet, BC are a haven for Pacific salmon, halibut, ling cod and a wide variety of bottom fish. The variety of fishing grounds that surround this coastal town make Ucluelet an ideal destination for both salmon and halibut fishing. Beginning in the late-spring, migratory Chinook salmon become present in close proximity to Ucluelet, averaging 15 to 25 pounds with fish exceeding 30 pounds being far from a rarity. Fishing in Ucluelet’s outer banks, ranging from 3 to 25 miles from the coastline, offer productive halibut fishing that coincides perfectly with the arrival of springtime Chinooks. In congruence with both salmon and halibut fishing, the migration of the magnificent Gray whale adds another aspect to Ucluelet’s fishing experience.
Port Hardy Salmon Getaway
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COASTAL FISHING
Port Hardy Salmon Fishing Getaway with Bear Cove Cottages
Rich in history and tradition, the first known inhabitants of Vancouver Island lived in the quaint coastal town of Port Hardy. Towering cedars, pristine coastline and a prolific saltwater fishery make Port Hardy a mainstay attraction to those visiting Vancouver Island every year. Owned by Wade and Shannon Dayley, Bear Cove Cottages provide anglers and adventurers alike a multitude of accommodation and package options. Offering three different accommodation options for singles, couples or groups, Bear Cove Cottages and Wicked Salmon Charters work in unison to provide an authentic Vancouver Island fishing experience. All five species of Pacific salmon, halibut, ling cod and various rockfish are available throughout the summer months in the waters surrounding Port Hardy. Some of the largest migratory Chinook salmon found anywhere in the Pacific tuck into Bear Cove Cottages’ fishing grounds as schools of Herring congregate near rock shelves and rock islands. If the desire to explore some of the area’s additional activities, guests can partake in beach-combing, kayaking, whale watching, or hike the lush forest of Cape Scott Provincial Park.
Salmon on the Fly in Port Hardy
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COASTAL FISHING
Port Hardy Fly Fishing with Tides and Tails Sport Fishing Adventures
From the moment you leave the dock, you will likely not finish your coffee before you arrive at the fishing grounds. Beginning in mid-August, Coho salmon are abundant and willing to chase a well-presented fly. Tides and Tails Sport Fishing Adventures specializes is a multitude of salmon and bottom fishing methods, with fly fishing for Coho salmon being a unique challenge for the saltwater angler. Amongst the schools of dime-bright Coho salmon are the occasional Chinook, Sockeye and Pink salmon. Coho salmon tend to swim high in the water column, making them a prime target for saltwater fly fishing. Using a variety of herring and baitfish imitations on sinking fly lines, their thunderous grabs and aerial display are what make Coho such a pleasurable species to target on the fly. Port Hardy is located on the northern reaches of Vancouver Island, and provides numerous salt and freshwater fly fishing opportunities in a serene setting.
Campbell River’s Salmon History
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COASTAL FISHING
Campbell River’s Salmon Fishing History is Worth Exploring
It was Roderick Haig-Brown who put Campbell River on the map. The renowned B.C. author and conservationist wrote extensively about his hometown and its tremendous fishing opportunities. In his many books and stories, Haig-Brown described in vivid detail the fishing rivers and ocean salmon grounds that have defined Campbell River as the “salmon capital of the world.”
The town, set on a protected inlet on the east side of Vancouver Island, is a prime area for big chinook salmon as these ocean kings gather here to feed on baitfish. The region’s historic lodges became centres for those who made annual trips to pursue these mighty fish.
Painter’s Lodge, for example, is legendary for those in search of “tyees” — mighty Chinook kings that exceed 30 pounds. Dating back to 1929, the lodge is close to famous salmon pools such as Tide Pool and Frenchman’s Pool.
Visiting anglers, which have included many of the rich and famous, often come here seeking entry into the Tyee Club, a distinction handed to those who catch a tyee according to a strict set of angling rules.
There are numerous lodges in Campbell River; each with their own charm and history, Anglers can spend years here, learning the stories each of the lodges have to share.
Visit https://www.campbellriver.travel/accommodations/ to learn more.
Campbell River Salmon Charters
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COASTAL FISHING
Campbell River Salmon Charters
Salmon Charters a great way to learn the “secrets” of salmon fishing
Campbell River is close to some of the largest runs of passing salmon to be found anywhere on B.C.’s
coast. Set on a protected inlet on the east side of Vancouver Island, the area is prime for many
different kinds of salmon fishing at all times of the year. Campbell River also offers ample river fishing opportunity for salmon and steelhead.
The tremendous variety of fishing opportunities has earned Campbell River the nickname of “salmon
capital of the world.” Those who want to try their hand and learn how to catch B.C.’s salmon are well
advised to start here, especially since the town is also home to many experienced salmon charter
and guide services.
There is real value in fishing with a guide, even if you are experienced in other areas. Guides offer
local knowledge and are aware of changing conditions. A good guide can find fish more quickly, and
gear anglers up properly. Every area has its tricks and tips, and the wealth of experience to be found
in the Campbell River fishing community makes this destination one of the best for those looking to
fast track their fishing success. Rich in history, Campbell River is a must-stop for salmon fishing enthusiasts.
For more information about area guides and charters, visit
www.campbellriver.travel
Sooke
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COASTAL FISHING
Sooke Offers Prime Fishing Adventures
Outdoor Trails And Terrific Fishing Minutes From Victoria
Sooke, on southern Vancouver Island, is just a short drive along paved Highway 14 West from Victoria, the province’s capital city. With lots of underwater structure in the area to hold baitfish, good salmon trolling is found as close as the harbour mouth, eastward along Sooke Bluffs to Becher Bay, westward to Otter Point, and onward to Sherringham Point. Because each odd-year is a cycle year for the southern Pink salmon, there will be plenty of these small, feisty salmon for novice and first-time salmon anglers to hone their fishing skills. Sooke, named after the Coast Salish T’sou-ke Nation, is renowned for hiking and cycling routes like the Galloping Goose and Juan de Fuca trails. You can also take in surfing, whale-watching, birdwatching, and artists’ studios.
Port Hardy
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COASTAL FISHING
Port Hardy’s Angling Adventures Also a Gateway to Region’s History
For A Whale Of A Time Fish Northern Vancouver Island
Port Hardy, at the northern end of Vancouver Island, perches on the edge of Queen Charlotte Strait. The strait squeezes waters from the open Pacific Ocean into a relatively narrow funnel between Northern Vancouver Island and the B.C. mainland. All five species of salmon – especially much sought-after, mature trophy chinook and coho returning to eastern Vancouver Island and mainland rivers – lurk in channels between innumerable islands and islets to ambush immense schools of bait pushed by powerful tidal currents. There are multiple options for oceanside accommodations in Port Hardy. With so many fish passing through, it’s also a prime location to view resident populations of orcas, whose main diet is salmon. Learn about the history and culture of Port Hardy’s Kwakwaka’wakw First Nation, the town’s early beginnings, European settlement, and resource industries at the Port Hardy Museum and Archives.
Bamfield
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COASTAL FISHING
Bamfield’s Fishing Experience is Second to None
Sound Fishing Amid Sensational Seascapes
Bamfield, at the mouth of spectacular Barkley Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island, is ideally located to take advantage of the region’s excellent salmon and bottom fishing. Early in the season, and again when mature chinook salmon are returning to the Robertson Creek Hatchery in mid-summer, anglers can find salmon right around the entrance to Bamfield Harbour or among the many islands within the Broken Group. The big fish-holding offshore banks are a bit farther to go, but offer consistently good fishing for mature salmon returning to Robertson Creek and many other rivers. Trolling lures just off the bottom can result in hot action for bottomfish as well as salmon. With its many protected waterways, and pretty islets with sandy beaches, Barkley Sound is a wonderful place explore in a kayak. Established in 1972, the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre (housed in the original Pacific Cable Board Station) is well worth a visit.
Tofino
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COASTAL FISHING
Fish The West Coast of Vancouver Island Out of Tofino
Fishing The Open Pacific – It May Be Rock & Roll But You’ll Love it!
Consistent fishing for salmon and bottomfish that you can “bank” on awaits you out of Tofino, on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The continental shelf extends far into the Pacific Ocean, with relatively shallow sandbanks whose depressions and structure hold baitfish like sand lance and herring, and provide a nursery for immature salmon. The offshore banks are also a major feeding stop for mature, migrating salmon returning to the streams and rivers of Vancouver Island, B.C.’s Lower Mainland, and the American west coast. It might feel a bit unnerving to corkscrew in huge ocean rollers at the offshore banks, but that’s where the fishing action is hottest. Later in the summer, there’s also heart-stopping fly-fishing for aerobatic topwater coho as they lurk in nooks and crannies along the surf line. Be sure to stroll along aptly named Long Beach – maybe even join a surfboarding class – and enjoy exploring Tofino’s restaurants, galleries, and funky shops. The “West Coast Lifestyle” is Tofino’s trademark.
Central Coast
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COASTAL FISHING
Fishing Adventures on B.C.’s Wild Central Coast
Fabulous Fishing Amid The Splendour Of The Great Bear Rainforest
In the great Central Coast archipelago, myriad channels and passages branch from steep-sided, glacially carved fjords. Rocky indentations carved into the shoreline of wind- and wave-eroded islands and islets afford respite and a rich environment for vast schools of bait to thrive. Fishing out of some of BC’s best fishing lodges you’ll find mature salmon – especially the huge trophy chinook and coho returning to the Bella Coola, Rivers Inlet, and other southern river systems – along with scores of bottomfish. Choose to fish the way you want: inside protected waterways, or on the edges of exposed, ocean-facing outer islands. Be sure to discover the culturally rich Heiltsuk First Nation’s heritage in the village of Bella Bella, on Campbell Island. Look for ancient petroglyphs painted in red ochre on the sheer walls of mainland fjords. You might even spot an elusive white “Spirit Bear” during a wildlife tour.
Brooks Peninsula
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COASTAL FISHING
Brooks Peninsula and B.C.’s “Salmon Highway”
Tuna fishing is also close enough to lure the adventurous angler
Brooks Peninsula sits near the top of the western side of Vancouver Island. It is remote and isolated and takes time to get here but those who do will be rewarded by fishing unlike most other places in B.C. This region is close to ocean migration pathways known as “the salmon highway” that channels fish to southern destinations. Every year salmon bound for southern spawning rivers travel en masse by the peninsula, and anglers here get first access to it.. The fish are silver, strong and fresh, and school in big numbers. As well, there are ample populations of halibut, cod and other bottom fish. And for those with a taste for offshore ocean adventure, there are tuna opportunities nearby, although it might take a trip beyond sight of land to find them. The community of Zeballos makes a great base for this adventure, and a good place to find a guide.
Haida Gwaii
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COASTAL FISHING
Haida Gwaii, a Unique B.C. Fishing Experience
Expect isolation — you might not see another fisherman for days
Isolation. Beautiful scenery. Access to diverse runs of salmon, including coho and chinook salmon, at the start of their passage down the West Coast, and an unrivalled variety of bottom fish. These are the defining characteristic of a fishing experience on Haida Gwaii, one of B.C.’s most interesting coastal destinations. The small islands of the Haida Gwaii are ecologically distinct from the mainland of British Columbia, having evolved separately over millennia. There is more wildlife than people, and more natural fishing opportunities than almost anywhere else.
This is a unique part of the province well worth the trip. Remote, fly-in lodges offer easy access, with trips all-inclusive from Vancouver. Guiding services can be readily found in Queen Charlotte City and Masset.
Port Alberni
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COASTAL FISHING
Fishing Port Alberni’s Variety of Ocean Species
Fiord-like inlet offers protection and unique
Port Alberni sits on the west coast of Vancouver Island, and while it faces the vast expanses of the open Pacific Ocean, its location on a grid-like inlet affords tremendous protection. As a result, fishing for salmon here is often done on calmer waters. As well, there are interesting opportunities to catch prawn and shrimp, a great daily bonus to be had on top of a catch of salmon. Like most coastal destinations, Port Alberni is a scenic wonder. Mountains meet rainforest and ocean in spectacular fashion, providing visitors with natural connections that enrich the experience, and make trips memorable.