Peak Chinook Smashing Lines in Discovery Passage

Friday Conditions on the Water

Good morning from Campbell River. We've got a soft, moody start to the day with 13°C, light drizzle, and a SE breeze pushing around 14 km/h. The morning slack tide rolling into the flood is exactly what we want to see this time of year — that tide change in Discovery Passage really fires up the bite. The drizzle keeps the light low and the fish comfortable up in the water column, so don't let the grey skies fool you. These are some of the best Chinook days of the season.

What's Running and Why

It's peak Chinook season, and these fish are not playing around. We're into solid 12-16 lb Chinook hitting hard right now, and there's a very real chance at a trophy 30-35 pounder for the lucky angler. The bait is stacked through Discovery Passage and along the Johnstone Strait approaches, and the Chinook are following it in numbers. Remember — Chinook is catch and release only until July 15 per DFO regulation, so this is pure catch-and-release action right now. And let me tell you, fighting a chrome 30-pounder on the line is a thrill whether it goes back in the water or not.

We're also starting to see early Coho showing on the edges. They're aggressive, fast, and a fun bonus when they crash the spread.

Technique Hints

Trolling cut-plug herring and anchovies in glow teaser heads has been the ticket, especially right around that tide change. Get your gear down where the bait is holding and work the current lines. Flashers paired with hootchies are also drawing strikes from the bigger fish. Keep your hooks sharp and your drags set right — these Chinook fight dirty and we're releasing them healthy.

What to Expect This Week

Expect steady Chinook action with multiple quality fish per trip and that ever-present shot at a trophy. The early Coho will keep things lively, and the conditions through the week look prime for working Discovery Passage and out toward Johnstone Strait.

Book Now

Here's the big one: Chinook retention opens July 15, and that's a major event around here. The boats fill fast once that opener hits. Get on the water now for world-class catch-and-release Chinook action, and lock in your spot for the retention opener before the calendar fills up. Let's go put a trophy on the line.

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.