Directions for Fishing Charters in Campbell River Pro salmon fishing guides

Directions to Campbell River for Your Fishing Charters Adventure

Welcome to Campbell River, the “Salmon Capital of the World,” where world-class Fishing Charters in Campbell River and Sportfishing await you! Whether you’re chasing trophy Chinook salmon, battling feisty Chum, or aiming for the prestigious Tyee Club, Campbell River is your ultimate destination for an unforgettable fishing experience. Below, we’ve outlined the best ways to reach Campbell River, British Columbia, so you can start your Campbell River Sportfishing adventure with ease.

Getting to Campbell River for Fishing Charters

Campbell River is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, surrounded by the pristine waters of Discovery Passage and the Salish Sea, making it a prime hub for Fishing Charters in Campbell River. Here are the most convenient ways to get here:

By Air

• Campbell River Airport (YBL): Fly directly into Campbell River with regional airlines like Pacific Coastal Airlines or Central Mountain Air from Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The flight takes about 40 minutes, offering stunning views of British Columbia’s coastline. From the airport, it’s just a short 10-minute drive to the marina, where your Campbell River Fishing Charters adventure begins.
• Comox Valley Airport (YQQ): Located 45 minutes south of Campbell River, Comox offers additional flight options from major cities like Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton via airlines such as WestJet and Air Canada. Rent a car or arrange a shuttle to reach Campbell River’s Sportfishing docks.
• International Arrivals: Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) or Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and connect to Campbell River or Comox via domestic flights. Alternatively, you can drive or take a ferry from Vancouver (see below).

Pro Tip: Book your flights early, especially during peak Sportfishing season (July to September), when Tyee salmon fishing draws anglers from around the globe.

By Car

Driving to Campbell River is a scenic journey, perfect for those who want to soak in Vancouver Island’s rugged beauty before embarking on Fishing Charters in Campbell River.

• From Vancouver: Take a BC Ferries vessel from Horseshoe Bay or Tsawwassen to Nanaimo (Departure Bay or Duke Point). The ferry ride is approximately 1.5–2 hours. From Nanaimo, follow Highway 19 north for about 1.5 hours (153 km) to Campbell River. The route offers breathtaking views of coastal forests and mountains, setting the stage for your Campbell River Sportfishing trip.
• From Victoria: Drive north on Highway 19 for approximately 3 hours (265 km). This route passes through charming towns like Parksville and Qualicum Beach, with plenty of opportunities to stop for local seafood or coffee.
• From North Island: If you’re coming from Port Hardy or other northern communities, head south on Highway 19. The drive from Port Hardy to Campbell River is about 2.5 hours (235 km).

Parking: Most Fishing Charters in Campbell River depart from Discovery Harbour Marina or Browns Bay Resort, both offering ample parking for guests. Check with your charter operator for specific directions to their dock.

By Ferry

BC Ferries provides a vital link to Vancouver Island for your Sportfishing adventure:

• Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo (Departure Bay): A 1-hour 40-minute ferry ride, followed by a 1.5-hour drive north to Campbell River.
• Tsawwassen to Nanaimo (Duke Point): A 2-hour ferry crossing, followed by a 1.5-hour drive to Campbell River.
• Foot Passengers: If you’re traveling without a vehicle, BC Ferries offers foot passenger service to Nanaimo, where you can connect to Campbell River via IslandLink Bus or a private shuttle.

Note: Ferry reservations are highly recommended during the summer Campbell River Fishing Charters season, as spots fill up quickly. Visit bcferries.com to book.

By Bus

• IslandLink Bus: Offers daily service from Vancouver to Campbell River, including ferry travel from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo. The trip takes about 4–5 hours, with drop-offs near Discovery Harbour Marina, a key departure point for Fishing Charters in Campbell River.
• Tofino Bus: Another option for travel from Victoria or Nanaimo to Campbell River, with comfortable coaches and scenic routes.

Local Transportation

Once in Campbell River, getting to your Sportfishing charter is easy:

• Taxis and Rideshares: Local taxi services or rideshare apps can take you to marinas like Discovery Harbour or Browns Bay, where most Fishing Charters in Campbell River depart.
• Car Rentals: Available at Campbell River Airport, Comox Valley Airport, or in town at agencies like Budget or Enterprise for flexibility during your stay.
• Shuttle Services: Some charter operators, like Absolute Sportfishing or Coastal Wilderness Adventures, offer pickup services from local accommodations. Contact your Campbell River Fishing Charters provider to inquire.

Planning Your Campbell River Sportfishing Trip

• Fishing License: All anglers must have a valid British Columbia Tidal Waters Sport Fishing License, available online at Fishing License Application. Ensure you add the salmon stamp if you plan to keep salmon.
• Best Time to Fish: Campbell River Sportfishing peaks from July to September for Tyee Chinook salmon (30+ lbs), with Coho, Pink, Sockeye, and Chum salmon also abundant. Year-round Chinook fishing is available, and winter months offer excellent Steelhead opportunities in local rivers.
• What to Bring: Dress in layers for variable weather, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife (orcas, humpback whales, and bald eagles are common sights). Your Fishing Charters in Campbell River will provide all necessary gear, but confirm with your operator.
• Accommodations: Campbell River offers a range of options, from waterfront resorts to cozy B&Bs and RV camping at Browns Bay Resort. Many are conveniently located near Sportfishing marinas.

Why Choose Campbell River for Fishing Charters?

Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Campbell River is a bucket-list destination for anglers. Fishing Charters in Campbell River offer access to all five species of Pacific salmon—Chinook, Coho, Pink, Chum, and Sockeye—along with halibut, lingcod, and rockfish. The calm waters of the Inside Passage, combined with expert guides like those at Fishing Storie Charters ensure a safe and thrilling experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, Fishing Storie Charters delivers adventure, stunning coastal views, and the chance to hook a legendary Tyee salmon.

Book Your Fishing Charter Today!

Ready to embark on your Campbell River Fishing Charters adventure? Contact us to reserve your spot and get detailed directions to our marina. Whether you’re driving, flying, or ferrying, Campbell River is easily accessible for your next Sportfishing trip. Tight lines and see you on the water!