Yes, you need a BC fishing license for all charters. Our trips depart from Coast Marina in Campbell River, just minutes from downtown. We provide all fishing gear, safety equipment, and complimentary fish cleaning. Most guests ask about our 4-hour introductory trips ($440-$660), licensing requirements, what to bring, and our family-friendly options for kids.
Have questions? Call us at 250-202-8324 - we're happy to help!
What fishing trips do you offer in Campbell River?
We offer guided salmon fishing charters including 4-hour introductory trips ($440-$660), half-day 5-hour trips ($840), full-day 8-hour trips ($1,680), and multi-day trips (from $3,360). All trips are private, locally guided, and fully equipped.
When is the best month to catch Chinook salmon in Campbell River?
July and August are peak Chinook season in Discovery Passage, with consistent 12โ16 lb fish and the chance of a 30+ lb trophy. June and September offer fewer boats and excellent catch rates for early and late returns. Winter Chinook (resident springs) are also available November through March. See our monthly fishing calendar for details by species.
What size Chinook salmon do you catch in Discovery Passage?
Typical Chinook in Discovery Passage run 12โ16 lb in summer, with trophy-size fish in the 30โ35 lb class taken several times per season. The local Tyee Club classification recognizes any Chinook over 30 lb caught from a rowboat as a Tyee.
How much does a salmon fishing charter cost in Campbell River?
Half-day Montauk trips start at $550, full-day at $880. The 27' Boston Whaler Conquest is $840 for a 5-hour half-day or $1,680 for an 8-hour full-day โ all prices per boat, not per person, for up to 4 guests. Multi-day Conquest charters are $1,680 per day. See full rates or book online.
Where can I book a family-friendly fishing charter in Campbell River, BC?
Fishing Storie Charters runs family trips on the 27' Boston Whaler Conquest (heated cabin, onboard washroom, Starlink WiFi) and 17' Boston Whaler Montauks. Kids are welcome from age 5, life jackets in all sizes are provided, and all fishing gear plus license arrangement is included. Learn more about our family trips.
What's the difference between Coho and Chinook salmon fishing in Campbell River?
Chinook (King) is the larger, deeper-running fish targeted with downriggers from May through September, peaking in July and August. Coho is smaller, faster, surface-feeding, and best August through October on bucktails or strip cut-plugs. Chinook are richer in oil and prized for trolling; Coho put up a more acrobatic fight. See our Chinook and Coho pages for trip details.
Half-day or full-day fishing charter โ which is better?
Full-day (8 hours) gives you both tide changes and significantly higher catch odds, especially in peak season JulyโAugust. Half-day (5 hours) is best when your group has limited time, for first-timers, or with younger kids. On the 27' Conquest, full-day is $1,680 vs half-day $840 (per boat for up to 4 guests). Most serious anglers choose full-day; most families with young kids choose half-day or our 4-hour introductory trip.
How early should I book a Campbell River fishing charter?
For July and August weekends, book 4โ6 weeks ahead. June and September often have 1-week availability. Multi-day Conquest charters fill 8โ12 weeks ahead โ we only run one premium boat. Same-day availability is sometimes possible in shoulder season (April, May, October). Call 250-202-8324 or book online to check current openings.
Do I need a fishing license for a charter trip in BC?
Yes โ every angler 16 and older needs a BC tidal-waters sport fishing licence. A 1-day licence is $7.16 CAD and can be purchased online through the DFO website in minutes. We include the licence link with your booking confirmation. Anglers under 16 need a licence too, but it's free โ get it from the same DFO site.
Can beginners go salmon fishing in Campbell River?
Absolutely โ most of our guests have never salmon-fished before. The guide rigs every rod, sets the downriggers, and runs the boat. Your job is to reel when it screams. We specialize in making first-timers feel confident. See what to expect on your first charter.
What should I bring on a Campbell River fishing charter?
Bring layered clothing (the water is 10ยฐC cooler than shore), polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a soft cooler for your catch. We supply all rods, reels, downriggers, tackle, bait, and rain gear โ plus the DFO licence link before you arrive. Full packing list at /what-to-bring.
Are Campbell River fishing charters good for kids?
Yes โ Campbell River's sheltered Discovery Passage waters and short runs from the marina make it one of the most kid-friendly salmon fisheries on the BC coast. The 27' Boston Whaler Conquest has a heated cabin, onboard washroom, and Starlink WiFi. Kids are welcome from age 5, life jackets in all sizes are provided, and our guides give patient hands-on instruction. See our family fishing page for trip options.
Where do your Campbell River fishing trips depart from?
All trips depart from Coast Marina, located at 1003 Island Hwy, Coast Marina, Slip A7, Campbell River, BC. Free parking is available at Tyee Plaza, across the street from the marina. We're just minutes from downtown Campbell River.
What's your cancellation policy?
We require 14 days notice for cancellations to receive a full refund. Weather cancellations are at the captain's discretion for safety - if we cancel due to weather, you'll receive a full refund or can reschedule.
When is the best time to fish in Campbell River?
Campbell River offers excellent fishing May through October. Chinook salmon peak in July-August, Coho are best August-September, and Pink salmon run in odd years (July-September). Contact us for current fishing conditions.
What's the success rate for catching salmon on a Campbell River charter?
In peak season (JulyโAugust), 90%+ of our full-day trips land at least one Chinook or Coho. Shoulder season (May, October) runs 60โ75%. Discovery Passage's narrow channel concentrates migrating salmon, giving Campbell River some of the highest charter success rates on the BC coast. Catch rates depend on tide timing, run strength, and weather. See recent fishing reports for current conditions.
What's the weather like fishing Campbell River in summer?
July and August are warm and stable (18โ24ยฐC, light winds). June and September are cooler with occasional southerly fronts. Discovery Passage is sheltered by Quadra Island โ we rarely cancel. Weather cancellations are at the captain's discretion for safety, with a full refund or free reschedule. Check local marine weather before your trip.
Where do salmon run in Discovery Passage?
Discovery Passage funnels migrating Chinook and Coho past Willow Point, the Hump, Green Can, Red Can, Cape Mudge, Wilby Shoals, and Shelter Point โ the most productive saltwater fishing corridor in BC. We rotate spots based on tide timing and where bait schools are holding. Learn more about Discovery Passage fishing.
What's the catch limit for Chinook salmon in DFO Area 13?
DFO limits change with annual conservation orders. For current Chinook retention limits in Area 13 (Discovery Passage), see our DFO salmon limits page โ we post changes as soon as they're announced and brief every guest at the dock before departure.
Do Campbell River fishing charters provide all the gear?
Yes โ rods, reels, downriggers, bait, tackle, and rain gear are all included. We also have survival suits for kids. You only need to bring layered clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a soft cooler for your catch. Full packing list at /what-to-bring.
Is Campbell River really the Salmon Capital of the World?
Yes โ the title was coined in the 1920s after Tyee Club records were established, reflecting Discovery Passage's role as the main saltwater migration funnel for Fraser- and northern-BC-bound Chinook stocks. The Tyee Club has recognized trophy catches (Chinook over 30 lb from a rowboat) here since 1924, making Campbell River one of the most storied sport-fishing destinations in the world.
27' Conquest or 17' Montauk โ which Campbell River boat should I choose?
Choose the 27' Conquest for families, full-day, multi-day, foul-weather seasons, or anyone wanting Starlink WiFi, a heated cabin, and a private washroom (up to 4 guests, $840โ$1,680/trip). Choose a 17' Montauk for value trips, introductory fishing, Tyee fishing, or wildlife runs (up to 2 guests, $440โ$880/trip). Both fish the same waters with the same certified guides. Compare fleet specs and pricing.
What boat do you use?
We operate a fleet of four boats: one 27' Boston Whaler Conquest with heated cabin, onboard washroom, Starlink WiFi, and premium electronics (up to 4 guests), plus three 17' Boston Whaler Montauks (up to 2 guests each). All boats are safe, stable, and well-maintained.
Is there WiFi on the boat?
Yes! Our 27' Boston Whaler Conquest is equipped with Starlink satellite internet, giving you high-speed WiFi even miles offshore. Share your catches on social media in real-time, video call family, or stay connected for work - you'll have reliable internet throughout your charter.
Can I keep the fish I catch on a Campbell River charter?
Yes โ within DFO daily limits (typically 2 Chinook per angler per day in season, subject to conservation orders). We clean and bag your catch at the dock at no extra charge, with fillets left on the tail per BC regulation so you can portion at home. For vacuum-sealing, smoking, or filleting, see our recommended Campbell River processors.
Do you offer wildlife tours?
Yes! We offer several wildlife and scenic tours including Wildlife Eco Tours ($660), Wildlife Boat Tours ($660), Seymour Narrows Tours ($440), and Mitlenatch Island Park Tours ($550). Perfect for non-fishers!
What's the best fishing charter for a corporate group in Campbell River?
Our Fleet Charter combines the 27' Conquest plus one to three Montauks, accommodating 5โ10 guests who all fish the same area together. Each boat has a certified guide. We handle group coordination, provide NET 30 invoicing, and can supply a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for corporate expense accounts. View fleet charter options and pricing.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit cards, e-transfer, and PayPal for deposits and payments. A deposit is required to secure your booking, with the balance due on the day of your charter.
Do you expect gratuities?
Gratuities are not mandatory but are always appreciated. A tip of 10-20% is typical for excellent service. Your captain works hard to ensure you have an amazing fishing experience!
Can you help with fish processing and shipping?
Yes! We clean and bag your catch at no extra charge. For additional processing, we can recommend local fish processors in Campbell River who offer vacuum sealing, flash freezing, and UPS shipping services to get your salmon home fresh.
