Trophy Chinook Building in Discovery Passage — Opener 3 Days Out
Trophy Chinook are building through Discovery Passage with early Coho showing — and the July 15 retention opener is just 3 days away.
Calm Seas and Big Fish on the Move
Good morning from Campbell River! We're waking up to a gorgeous mid-July day out here — 11°C, partly cloudy skies, and a light north wind at just 5 km/h. The water is flat calm with waves sitting right around 0.0m, and we're working that morning slack transitioning into the flood tide. These are the kind of conditions we dream about: glassy water, comfortable temperatures, and hungry fish moving through the passage.
Chinook Running Strong Through Discovery Passage
The Chinook action right now is exactly what we want to see this time of year. Fish are pushing through Discovery Passage in solid numbers, with most in that 12–16 lb class. Even better, we're starting to see more of the trophy-class fish showing up — those 30 to 35 pounders that get everyone talking as Tyee season approaches. Every day we're getting closer to that magic window.
A quick and important note: Chinook remain catch and release only until July 15 under DFO regulations. That's just three days away! We're releasing every Chinook right now, but the fight, the excitement, and the sheer size of these fish make for an unforgettable morning on the water. When that retention opener hits on the 15th, you'll want to be out here.
Coho Starting to Show
On top of the Chinook, we're seeing the first of the early Coho starting to trickle in. They're just getting going, but it's a great sign of the action ramping up across the season. Nothing beats mixing it up with a few feisty Coho between big Chinook hookups.
Technique Tips for This Week
With the slack-into-flood timing, we're working the tide lines and current seams where bait stacks up. Trolling anchovies and glow spoons at varying depths has been producing well, and don't be afraid to run deeper as the sun climbs. Keeping your gear in the strike zone through Discovery Passage and along the edges toward Johnstone Strait is key.
Book Your Seat Before the Opener
This is the week to get on the water. Trophy Chinook are building, Coho are showing, and the retention opener is right around the corner. Spots fill fast as Tyee season nears — don't miss your shot at a fish of a lifetime. Give us a call and let's get you booked with Fishing Storie Charters!
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.
