Conservation & Sustainability
Protecting Campbell River's world-class fishery for future generations. Our commitment to sustainable practices ensures the salmon keep coming back.
Catch & Release
Proper Techniques
DFO Compliant
100% Regulation Adherence
Habitat Protection
Marine Ecosystem Care
Education
Teaching Best Practices
Why Conservation Matters Here
Campbell River is known as the "Salmon Capital of the World" for good reason. Five species of Pacific salmon return here every year, along with halibut, lingcod, and a diverse marine ecosystem. This isn't just good fishing — it's a legacy worth protecting.
As charter operators, we have a responsibility to ensure these waters remain productive for decades to come. Every decision we make — from the gear we use to the fish we release — reflects our commitment to sustainability.
"We're not just fishing guides — we're stewards of these waters. The salmon runs that make Campbell River famous depend on every angler doing their part."
— Captain Jason, Lead Guide
Salmon Species
Years of Fishing History
DFO Compliance
Tolerance for Waste
Proper Catch & Release
When we release fish, we do it right. Our captains use proven techniques that maximize survival rates and minimize stress on the fish.
Barbless Hooks
We use barbless or pinched-barb hooks whenever catch and release is planned. This allows for quick, clean releases with minimal tissue damage.
- Faster unhooking
- Less tissue damage
- Higher survival rates
Wet Hands Only
Fish have a protective slime coating that shields them from disease. We always wet our hands before handling and never use dry towels or gloves.
- Protects slime coating
- Prevents infection
- Reduces handling stress
Keep Fish in Water
We minimize air exposure by keeping fish in the water as much as possible. Quick photos are fine, but the fish never leaves the water for long.
- Maximum 10-15 seconds out of water
- Camera ready before lifting
- Support fish horizontally
Proper Revival
We never just toss fish back. We hold them gently in the current, allowing water to flow through their gills until they swim away strongly on their own.
- Face fish into current
- Wait for strong tail kick
- Let fish swim away on its own
Right Gear for the Job
Using appropriate tackle reduces fight time and fish exhaustion. We match rod/line strength to target species to land fish quickly.
- Properly matched tackle
- Reduced fight time
- Less fish exhaustion
Know When to Keep
Some fish don't survive release — if a fish is deeply hooked, bleeding from the gills, or shows poor revival, it's more ethical to keep it (if legal) than waste it.
- Assess fish condition honestly
- Zero tolerance for waste
- Ethical decision-making
What We Follow
-
Daily Limits
We track catches carefully and never exceed daily possession limits
-
Size Restrictions
All fish are measured accurately — undersized fish are released immediately
-
Seasonal Closures
We respect all area closures designed to protect spawning populations
-
Species Restrictions
Protected species like wild steelhead are released with extra care
-
Mark Selective Fisheries
We understand hatchery vs. wild identification and follow mark-selective rules
100% DFO Compliant
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) sets the rules that protect our salmon populations. These regulations aren't just suggestions — they're science-based measures designed to ensure sustainable fish stocks.
Our captains stay current with all regulation changes, including in-season adjustments. When DFO makes changes mid-season (which happens often), we adapt immediately.
View Current DFO RegulationsMarine Ecosystem Stewardship
Healthy fish need healthy habitat. We take steps every day to minimize our impact on the marine environment.
Zero Waste Policy
All trash comes back to shore. Nothing goes overboard.
Sensitive Area Respect
We avoid anchoring in eelgrass beds and kelp forests.
Wildlife Distance
We maintain respectful distances from marine mammals.
Fuel Spill Prevention
Careful fueling practices and bilge management.
Dedicated Catch & Release Charter
For anglers who want the thrill of the fight without taking fish home, we offer a dedicated catch and release experience. Target big Chinook and Coho with the satisfaction of knowing every fish swims free.
- All barbless hooks
- Expert release technique coaching
- In-water photography for trophy shots
- Perfect for conservation-minded anglers
Why Choose Catch & Release?
More Fish, More Fights
Without bag limits to worry about, you can fish longer and catch more
Leave a Legacy
Released fish continue to spawn and support the population
Pure Sport
Experience the thrill of the catch without the cooler
Fish Responsibly With Us
Join a charter that takes conservation seriously. Great fishing and responsible practices aren't mutually exclusive — they go hand in hand.
