Spring Chinook & Lingcod Double-Header Season Heats Up

Spring Chinook Fill Out, Lingcod Season Opens — May 1st Marks Peak Action

Friday delivered textbook conditions for Campbell River: light NW winds, calm waters, and the morning slack transitioning into a clean flood tide. At 9°C and overcast, the Discovery Passage is primed for one of the year's most exciting double-header opportunities.

Spring Chinook are filling out beautifully right now—we're seeing solid 15–25 lb fish moving through the Johnstone Strait and into our local channels. These powerful fish are aggressive and willing, making for explosive strikes and heart-pounding fights. While catch-and-release action is the name of the game until July 15, every single fish on the line is a trophy moment. The excitement builds knowing that retention opens mid-July, and these early runners are a preview of what's to come.

Today marks day one of Lingcod season, and this is where the week gets really interesting. Lingcod are voracious feeders and willing biters. Expect firm hits, strong runs, and the real possibility of taking home quality fish. Pairing Chinook C&R with Lingcod retention creates genuine double-header days—the kind of fishing that keeps anglers talking for months.

What to Expect This Week

Conditions remain favorable through the weekend. Slack water transitions and flood tides are your sweet spots; that's when both species feed most actively. Jigging mid-water column works well for Chinook; drop to the bottom for aggressive Lingcod. Expect to cover water and work structure around Quadra Island and the Discovery Passage main channels.

Bring layers—the bite is hot, but the air is cool. Your guide will dial in exactly where the fish are stacked, and you'll have a genuine shot at connecting with multiple species in a single outing.

This is the moment. Book now and experience what makes spring fishing in Campbell River unforgettable.

Ready to experience world-class fishing in Campbell River? Book your charter trip with Fishing Storie Charters today. Captain Jason and the crew are ready to put you on fish.