Peak Chinook Are Smashing Lines in Discovery Passage

Conditions on the Water

Good morning from Campbell River! We've got a beautiful end-of-June day shaping up out here. The thermometer's sitting at a cool 12°C with partly cloudy skies, and those NW winds are barely whispering at 8 km/h. Wave height is glassy calm at around 0.2 metres, so it's about as comfortable as it gets out on the water. We're working the morning slack into the flood tide, which is prime time to put baits in front of hungry fish.

What's Running and Why

It's peak Chinook season, plain and simple, and these fish are not playing shy. We're seeing solid 12 to 16 pounders hitting hard right now, with a very real chance at hooking into a trophy fish in that 30 to 35 pound class. The bait is stacked up through Discovery Passage and along the edges toward Johnstone Strait, and the Chinook are following it in numbers. A quick but important reminder: Chinook is catch and release only until July 15 per DFO regulation, so right now it's all about that incredible catch-and-release action and the thrill of the fight. On top of the Chinook, we're starting to see early Coho show up along the edges, which adds a fun bit of variety to the day.

Technique Hints

This time of year, trolling anchovies in a teaser head behind a flasher is hard to beat. Pay attention to depth and stay on the bait balls — when you find the feed, you'll find the Chinook. Glow and green spoons are also producing well in the lower light of the morning slack. Work the tide lines and let the flood do some of the work for you.

What Guests Can Expect This Week

Expect hard-charging fish, screaming reels, and the kind of catch-and-release battles that leave your arms sore in the best way. With calm seas and bait everywhere, the bite should stay strong all week. Whether you're chasing your personal best or just want to feel that big-fish pull, this is the time to be on the water in Campbell River.

Book Now

Here's the big one: Chinook retention opens July 15, and that's a major event you do not want to miss. Boats are filling up fast around the opener. Get out now for some unforgettable catch-and-release action, and lock in your spot for July 15 while you still can. Give us a shout and let's get you on the fish!

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.