Trophy Chinook Building in Discovery Passage — Opener 14 Days Out

Current Conditions on the Water

Happy Canada Day from all of us at Fishing Storie Charters! We're waking up to a gorgeous morning here in Campbell River — 12°C, partly cloudy skies, and a whisper of NW wind at just 4 km/h. The water is flat calm with waves barely reaching 0.1m, and we're moving from morning slack into the flood tide. These are picture-perfect conditions for working Discovery Passage, and the fish are responding.

What's Running and Why

Chinook are the headline act right now, pushing through Discovery Passage in solid numbers. Most fish are running 12–16 lbs, but here's the exciting part — trophy-class Chinook are showing up more and more often as we creep toward Tyee season. We've been seeing those big shoulders roll on the surface, and every day brings a better shot at a 30-plus pounder. Remember, Chinook is strictly catch & release right now under DFO regulations, so it's all about the fight, the photo, and the release. Alongside the springs, early Coho are just starting to trickle in, adding a little bonus action to the day.

Technique Hints

With the tide building through the flood, we're focusing on the tide lines and current seams where bait stacks up. Trolling anchovy in a glow teaser head has been deadly, and don't be afraid to run your gear deep — those bigger Chinook are holding down in the water column. Slow, steady trolling speeds and staying on the bait are key. When the Coho fire up, expect faster surface bites, so keep a rod ready to go a little shallower.

What to Expect This Week

Expect steady catch & release Chinook action throughout the week, with the very real possibility of tangling with a trophy fish. The calm weather looks to hold, meaning comfortable, productive days on the water from Campbell River out toward Johnstone Strait. This is prime time to sharpen your skills and get dialed in before the big day.

The July 15 Opener Is Coming

Here's the countdown that has everyone buzzing — Chinook retention opens July 15, just 14 days away! The fish are here now and only getting bigger. If you want to be on the water when the opener hits, those dates are filling fast. Get out this week for the catch & release action, then lock in your spot for the retention opener. Give us a call and let's put you on the fish of a lifetime. Tight lines!

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.