What is the best month for salmon fishing in Campbell River?

July 15 through September is peak salmon season in Campbell River, BC. Chinook retention opens July 15 — this is Tyee time in Discovery Passage! Coho opens June 1 at 2/day (non-retention April 1 – May 31), with wild Coho opening September 1. Pink salmon runs peak in August. Chum salmon opens October 17. August offers the most diverse multi-species action on Vancouver Island.

When does Chinook salmon season open in Campbell River?

In DFO Area 13 (Campbell River), Chinook retention typically opens July 15 and runs through December 31. There is also a Winter Chinook season from January 1 through March 31. Chinook is closed (non-retention) April 1 to July 14 for conservation. Always confirm current DFO regulations before your trip as dates can vary year to year.

Can I fish for salmon year-round in Campbell River?

Yes — with seasonal variations. Chinook is open January–March (winter season) and July 15–December (summer/fall season). Coho opens June 1 at 2/day (non-retention April 1 – May 31); wild Coho opens September 1. Pink salmon are open year-round but peak July–September in odd-numbered years. Chum opens October 17. Sockeye is non-retention year-round. Always check current DFO regulations before fishing.

When is lingcod and rockfish season in Campbell River?

In Area 13 (Campbell River), lingcod and rockfish typically open around May 1 and run through September 30, confirmed each year by DFO fishery notice. Lingcod: 1/day, min 65cm, 10-fish annual limit. Rockfish: 1/day combined (Yelloweye always non-retention — must be released). Lingcod closes November 16 for spawning. Always check current DFO regulations as dates are confirmed seasonally.

What fish can I catch in Campbell River during winter?

Winter (December–March) offers Winter Chinook salmon and spot prawns — December prawning is excellent before the January 1 closure. Coho is non-retention January through May 31. Lingcod and rockfish are closed during winter months. It's a quieter season on the water but dedicated anglers are rewarded with quality Chinook fishing in Discovery Passage.

How far in advance should I book a Campbell River fishing charter?

For peak season (July 15–September), we recommend booking 2–3 months in advance — these dates fill quickly, especially weekends and the Tyee Chinook window. Spring (April–June) and fall (October–November) charters typically book 3–4 weeks out. FSC operates a 27' Boston Whaler Conquest (up to 4 guests) and three 17' Boston Whaler Montauks (2 guests each), so we can often accommodate groups of various sizes. Call 250-202-8324 to check availability.

Salmon fishing in Campbell River, BC — Discovery Passage, Vancouver Island

Year-Round Fishing — Campbell River, BC

Campbell River Fishing Calendar

Know exactly when to book your trip. Our month-by-month guide shows the best times to target each species in Campbell River's Discovery Passage and surrounding Vancouver Island waters — based on current DFO 2025-2026 regulations.

Peak Season

July 15 – September — Chinook opens, plus Pink & Coho salmon runs in Discovery Passage

Groundfish Season

Lingcod & Rockfish open July 1 — excellent fishing through October in Campbell River waters

Coho Opens June 1

Coho non-retention April 1 – May 31. Opens June 1 at 2/day. Wild Coho opens September 1. Sockeye non-retention year-round.

5-Star Rated — 72+ Google Reviews

18+ Trips Completed in the Past Year

Campbell River, BC — Salmon Capital of the World

Call 250-202-8324

Fishing Quality: Peak! Great Good Fair

Campbell River Fishing Calendar

Peak Season

Groundfish Season

Coho Opens June 1

Rico • FSC AI Assist

Hey, I'm Rico!

Don't Miss Peak Season!