Discover the wonders of fishing in Campbell River with our comprehensive guide to the best fishing times and species you can catch throughout the year.
Campbell River, known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” provides anglers with an unmatched fishing experience, offering a variety of species in our bountiful fresh and tidal waters.
Fishing Species & Seasons
Check out the table below for a quick reference on the best times to fish for each species, followed by a detailed month-by-month guide to help you plan your fishing adventures.
| Species | Time of Year |
|---|---|
| Chinook Salmon (King) | Year Round |
| Tyee (Chinook) 30 lbs & up | July – September |
| Coho Salmon (Silvers) | July – October |
| Pink Salmon | July 15 – September |
| Sockeye Salmon | July 15 – August |
| Chum Salmon | September 15 – November |
| Steelhead | January – April & July – November |
| Halibut | June – September |
| Lingcod | May – September |
Month-by-Month Fishing Guide
With this comprehensive fishing calendar, anglers can plan their trips around the rich fishing opportunities that Campbell River offers year-round.
September
As the peak tourist season ends, September ushers in the prime time for Chum Salmon, renowned for their fierce fight despite their size.
Early September continues the Chinook focus, transitioning later in the month towards chum in the lower straits from Seymour Narrows onwards.
Coho Salmon may also make an appearance, with varying availability.
The shore and boat fisheries for large Chinook continue around the Campbell/Quinsam area. Anglers may experience greater or lesser Coho numbers, typically retaining hatchery origin fish.
October
October is the month of Chum Salmon in Campbell River, a period marked by lower accommodation costs and unbeatable fishing conditions.
Chum fishing, lasting until late October, involves vibrant red gear and dummy flashers for enhanced attraction. These silvery fish are strong fighters, with multiple catches a possibility.
Basic sockeye gear works well, while some anglers prefer pink and blue hoochies with longer leaders.
Chum Salmon are definitively a highlight of the Campbell River fishing scene.
November
By November, mature Salmon have migrated to spawning rivers, making it one of the quieter months for fishing.
Nevertheless, feeding Chinook can still be caught south of Campbell River, and Winter Steelhead season begins.
December
Winter in Campbell River offers unique fishing opportunities, including Winter Steelhead and small Chinook Salmon offshore.
Early December sees good-sized feeder Chinook around the top of the Strait of Georgia, kicking off the winter fishery.
January
Despite snowfall in January, Campbell River’s Chinook fishery keeps anglers active, with the chance to catch Salmon offshore.
February
February remains quiet, but anglers can enjoy Winter Steelhead season in local rivers and streams, along with consistent Chinook fishing in saltwater.
March
As spring approaches, Chinook Salmon feeding intensifies, with catches weighing between six and 20 pounds. Fishing becomes more dynamic as the season progresses.
April
April sees spring fishing solidifying its pattern, with recommended full day trips for the best Salmon, found further out. Winter Steelhead season concludes.
May
May brings fishing closer to shore as big Chinooks follow schools of herring and needlefish. The beautiful spring scenery and warm weather enhance the fishing experience.
June
June offers a mixed catch of Chinook and Coho Salmon, along with Summer Steelhead. Anglers will want to mark the Campbell River Salmon Derby on their calendars for this month.
July
In July, Pinks are generally the first salmon to start coming into the Campbell, Quinsam & Oyster Rivers.
July most notably marks the exciting start of Tyee season in Campbell River, with Chinook Salmon over 30 lbs making their presence felt. Sockeye, Pink, and Coho Salmon also make their debut.
The Tyee pools see the return of these giants in mid-to-late July. Anglers looking to join the historic Tyee Club should check out the Tyee Club of BC.
In out area’s salt waters, larger baits such as plugs, large spoons, and 6″ anchovies are effective.
For lingcod, swimbaits and jigging on deep reefs during slack tides are key.
While prawn fishing may slow down, those secret spots can still yield good catches with fresh bait and weighted traps.
August
August is popular among tourists due to its excellent fishing conditions and favorable weather.
Salmon should be in the local rivers by August unless it’s been a dry summer.
Pinks are generally the first salmon to start coming into the Campbell, Quinsam & Oyster Rivers. (this year it started around July 26th)
From August 1 through September 15, the Tyee rowing season is in full swing, perfect for diehard sportfishing fans. Anglers looking to join the historic Tyee Club should check out the Tyee Club of BC.
Tidal fishing techniques in August involve dividing efforts between targeting mature and actively feeding Chinook. The Georgia Strait is a hotspot with its blend of immature feeders and mature migrators.
Deep water fishing is gaining popularity, but don’t neglect the shallow waters even in bright sunlight.
Fishing Reports
Here’s the best places to find up-to-date fishing reports for Campbell River:
Tyee Marine – local outfitter that publishes detailed monthly reports including bait & gear recommendations.
Campbell River Fishing Reports – Facebook group with timely updates.
Remember: Check fishing regulations for Area 13 (salt water) or Region 1 (freshwater) before heading out!