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! Hatchery Coho (adipose clipped) opens April 1 at 2/day, 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). Hatchery Coho (adipose clipped) opens April 1 at 2/day; 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?

Lingcod and rockfish season opens July 1 in Campbell River waters. Both species offer excellent fishing through summer and fall. Lingcod closes November 16 for the winter spawning period. Rockfish remain open into late fall. These bottom fish are best targeted around the rocky structure and reefs of Discovery Passage and the surrounding Vancouver Island coastline.

What fish can I catch in Campbell River during winter?

Winter (December–March) offers Winter Chinook salmon, hatchery Coho (2/day, adipose clipped), and spot prawns — December prawning is excellent before the January 1 closure. Wild Coho is non-retention January through March. 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

Hatchery Coho Opens Apr 1

Hatchery Coho (adipose clipped) opens April 1 — 2/day. Wild Coho opens September 1. Non-retention January through March. Sockeye non-retention year-round.

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Campbell River Fishing Calendar

Peak Season

Groundfish Season

Hatchery Coho Opens Apr 1

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