Trophy Chinook Building in Discovery Passage — Opener 4 Days Out

Saturday Conditions on the Water

We've got a beautiful summer morning here in Campbell River. It's sitting at 13°C with partly cloudy skies and light N winds at just 5 km/h. The water is flat calm with wave heights around 0.1m, and we're working a morning slack tide easing into the flood. Conditions like this are exactly what we want — calm, comfortable, and fishy. If you've been waiting for a glassy day to get out on Discovery Passage, this is it.

What's Running and Why

The Chinook action right now is outstanding. Fish are pushing through Discovery Passage in strong numbers, with most in that 12–16 lb range and trophy-class fish showing up more and more often as we roll toward Tyee season. We're seeing 30–35 lb bruisers start to make appearances, and that trend only builds from here.

A quick but important note: Chinook is catch & release only until July 15 — that's a DFO regulation and just 4 days away. So this week is all about hooking into these fish, feeling that screaming first run, and getting the photos before a clean release. The retention opener on the 15th is going to be something special, and the fish are already here waiting.

On top of the Chinook, early Coho are just starting to show. It's still early in the run, but we're getting our first taste of that hard-fighting silver action that Campbell River is famous for.

Technique Hints

With the slack easing into flood, we're focusing on trolling anchovies and spoons along the tide lines and structure through Discovery Passage. Getting your gear down to the right depth and staying tight to bait balls is key. As the flood picks up, we'll adjust our presentations to keep baits swimming naturally. Our guides know these waters and the daily bite windows inside out.

What to Expect This Week

Expect consistent catch & release Chinook action with real shots at a trophy, plus the growing chance at an early Coho. The energy on the water is climbing fast with the retention opener on the horizon — the fish are stacking in, and they're hungry.

Book Your Trip

With the July 15 Chinook opener just days away and trophy fish already prowling Discovery Passage and Johnstone Strait, now is the time to lock in your seat. These prime summer dates fill quickly — reach out to Fishing Storie Charters and let's get you into 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.