Discovery Passage Fishing: Chinook & Coho Salmon Charters in Campbell River, BC

Discovery Passage fishing offers some of the most productive salmon angling on Vancouver Island, with Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) running through these nutrient-rich tidal waters. Fishing Storie Charters, based in Campbell River, BC, guides anglers through Discovery Passage, Seymour Narrows, and Cape Mudge aboard a modern Boston Whaler fleet led by Captain Jason. With a 5-star Google rating across 145+ verified reviews and 351+ trips completed in the past year, it's a reliable choice for both first-timers and seasoned anglers.

At a Glance: Discovery Passage Salmon Charters

• Primary species: Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch)
• Key waters: Discovery Passage, Seymour Narrows, Cape Mudge, and around Quadra Island
• Home port: Campbell River, BC — the Salmon Capital of the World (Source: Tourism Campbell River)
• Fleet: 27' Boston Whaler Conquest (up to 4 guests) and three 17' Boston Whaler Montauks (2 guests each)
• Track record: 5-star rating across 145+ verified reviews, 351+ trips in the past year
• Booking: Call 250-202-8324 or visit fishingstoriecharters.com

Why Discovery Passage Is a World-Class Salmon Fishery

Discovery Passage is a narrow, fast-flowing channel separating Vancouver Island from Quadra Island in British Columbia, Canada. Operating in the nutrient-rich waters of Discovery Passage (DFO Pacific Region), Fishing Storie Charters intercepts migrating salmon as they funnel through this natural bottleneck on their way to spawning rivers. The strong tidal currents concentrate baitfish, and where the bait goes, feeding Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) follow.

Campbell River earned its title as the Salmon Capital of the World (Source: Tourism Campbell River) precisely because of fisheries like this one. The waters around Cape Mudge and Seymour Narrows offer structure, upwelling, and predictable feeding zones that Captain Jason has fished for years. Local knowledge matters here — reading the tides in Seymour Narrows and knowing exactly when and where salmon stage near Cape Mudge is the difference between a slow day and a memorable one. To dig deeper into the area, see our Discovery Passage Fishing guide and our detailed Seymour Narrows Guide.

Chinook and Coho: What You'll Be Targeting

Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), also called King salmon, are the largest Pacific salmon species and the marquee catch in Discovery Passage. These powerful fish are typically targeted by trolling near the bottom along current lines and drop-offs, with fish often ranging from teens into the twenties of pounds and occasionally larger. If Chinook are your goal, our Chinook Salmon Charter is built around finding them.

Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) bring a different kind of excitement — aggressive, acrobatic, and fast, they often hit near the surface and put on an aerial show once hooked. Coho fishing tends to peak in late summer and early fall as schools move through the passage. Anglers wanting to focus on this species can explore our Coho Salmon Fishing page, and newcomers can review the full Salmon Species Guide. Both species are managed under Fisheries and Oceans Canada regulations, and Captain Jason ensures every trip follows current DFO Pacific Region rules for retention and conservation.

The Fleet: Comfort and Capability on the Water

Fishing Storie Charters runs a purpose-built Boston Whaler fleet suited to the varied conditions of Discovery Passage. The flagship 27' Boston Whaler Conquest carries up to 4 guests and features a heated cabin, Starlink WiFi, and a private washroom — ideal for full-day adventures, families, or groups who want comfort alongside serious fishing. For couples, small groups, and a nimble, up-close experience, three 17' Boston Whaler Montauks each carry 2 guests.

Every vessel is maintained to a high standard and equipped with quality gear, so you can simply show up and fish. Whether you're chasing Chinook near Cape Mudge or working Coho schools around Quadra Island, the right boat makes the day better. Browse the full lineup on our Our Fleet page, check current Rates & Pricing, and if this is your first time out, our First Time Fishing resource walks you through what to expect.

Trips for Every Angler

Not every group wants the same day on the water, so Fishing Storie Charters offers flexible options. A Full Day Charter gives you the range to follow fish across Discovery Passage and beyond, while a Half Day Charter is perfect for a focused morning bite. Families and first-timers often start with the Family Fishing trip. With 351+ trips completed in the past year and a 5-star rating across 145+ verified reviews, guests consistently return — read what they say on our Guest Reviews page.

Frequently Asked Questions