Campbell River Fishing Charters

The best out of 32 charter fishing deals in Campbell River - enter dates to check availability

Campbell River: 32 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Campbell River
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $332
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(64 reviews)
Campbell River
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $458
Campbell River
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $295
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(34 reviews)
Campbell River
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $520
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(12 reviews)
Campbell River
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $465
Excellent
4.6 / 5
(6 reviews)
Campbell River
Booked out!
Your dates are popular โ€“ we've run out of trips with this charter! Check out more below.
Campbell River
Booked out!
Your dates are popular โ€“ we've run out of trips with this charter! Check out more below.
Just added to our fleet
Campbell River
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $1,086
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(9 reviews)
Campbell River
Booked out!
Your dates are popular โ€“ we've run out of trips with this charter! Check out more below.
Just listed
Campbell River
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $620

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Campbell River

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in Campbell River, British Columbia are: Full list of top fishing charters in Campbell River

The average price for a private 4 hour Campbell River fishing trip is US $494, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,008 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fishing charters in Campbell River that received great reviews from families are:

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Campbell River are:

The top 3 fishing techniques in Campbell River are:

The top 3 types of fishing in Campbell River are:

Many fishing charters in Campbell River provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Campbell River are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Campbell River?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Campbell River are:
  • 3-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $399
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $581
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $774
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $750
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,253
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,550
  • 12-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,050

Fishing in Campbell River

If we had to describe Campbell River fishing in five words, they would be these: Salmon, Salmon, and more Salmon. Not only is it known as the ‘Salmon Capital of the World,’ it has held this title for over a century.

This small town on Vancouver Island is visited by all five species of Pacific Salmon on a yearly basis - and it is a favorite haunt of hundreds of sportfishermen who migrate to these waters, every year, too. Some say that the only things that can be in short supply round here in high season are free spaces on Campbell River fishing charters!

Known For

Campbell River may be a small town, but don’t let that put you off. Not only does this coastal community play host to plenty of hotels, B&Bs, and stores, it also has its own airport and - most importantly - a substantial charter fishing fleet. But what’s the big deal? What is it about this little place that Salmon, and anglers, just can’t resist?

First, take a look at its geography. Campbell River is located at the end of the Strait of Georgia, on a stretch of water enigmatically known as ‘Discovery Passage’. This is prime, world class Salmon territory. Imagine a kind of ‘Salmon funnel,’ that thousands of Pacific Salmon need to travel through to return to their birth rivers to spawn.

To the north, the hard granite of the steep mountains is sliced into by deep channels and inlets. This is a land of glacial wilderness: those who have the time to spare may even make it out to Bute Inlet and Johnstone Strait. Head southwards, and the water and the land formations flatten, creating wide expanses. You can fish here for days and experience multiple different styles, areas, and views. And oh my, the views.

Now, let’s look at the fish. The waterways of Discovery Passage and Johnstone Strait can be understood as a kind of ‘Salmon highway.’ This is the connection between the open ocean and the rivers and streams where the Salmon lifecycle both starts - and ends. Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, Chum, and Pink Salmon all pass by Campbell River on their journey to the stream where they were spawned - and where they in turn will spawn and end their days.

What does this mean for anglers? Plentiful Salmon, of all varieties. And it’s the big ones that Campbell River Salmon fishing charters are competing to get their hands on.

Any Campbell River Salmon fishing guide worth their salt will tell you that there’s one thing every angler wants round here: and that’s a Tyee. This native word means chief, and it is used to describe any Chinook Salmon weighing over 30lbs. Take a fishing trip from July to September and who knows, maybe you will hook a Tyee for yourself.

But it’s not all about big Chinooks. Locals say that it’s the Chum Salmon migration that you really need to look out for: come in the fall for a fight to remember. Freshwater anglers will find themselves up against both Winter and Summer Steelhead. And as if the Salmonids weren’t enough, with Halibut, Cod, and Snapper all available in deeper waters, you are not going to go hungry any time soon.

Rules & Regulations

Just like everywhere else in British Columbia, a valid sportfishing license is essential for fishing in Campbell River. Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licenses are needed for saltwater fishing. They are issued by the Government of Canada and may be purchased online. For freshwater fishing, you will need a Non-Tidal Angling License, which is issued by the Province of Canada. 

Anyone who wishes to keep any Salmon caught will need to be in possession of a valid Salmon stamp.

Types of Fishing

Salmon fishing means trolling deep down in the water column. So if you can't get enough of the sound of downriggers popping, this is the style for you.

Otherwise, have a go at Salmon fishing Campbell River style and try for membership of the exclusive ‘Tyee Club’. How? Easy. All you need to do is catch a 30 lb + Chinook. On light tackle. In a rowboat. This is sportfishing at its most pure, and it has been done here this way ever since 1924.

Campbell River
Excellent
4.9 / 5
Based on 28443 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Campbell River Fishing Seasons

January

January might see the most average annual snowfall in Campbell River, but it doesn't usually stay around for long. And thanks to the area's Chinook fishery, you can always warm up by catching a Salmon offshore.

February

February is a quiet month in Campbell River, BC. But the Winter Steelhead season is going strong in the local rivers and streams, while saltwater fishing offers up the ever-present Chinook. Not bad for a low season!

March

As spring gradually starts to appear, the fishing begins to change up. The Chinook Salmon begin to feed up more aggressively and are piling on the pounds, with most catches weighing in between six and 20 pounds.

April

Spring fishing starts to settle into its pattern more consistently. Full day trips are recommended at this time of year, with the biggest and best Salmon being a little further out. This is the end of the Winter Steelhead season.

May

As summer draws in, the fishing comes closer to the shore. Big Chinooks are following schools of herring and needlefish near town. You will be fishing with an amazing backdrop of spring colors and warmer weather.

June

Fishing starts to mix up, with more than just Chinook Salmon in Campbell River. Coho (Silver) Salmon shows up and will stay through September, and Summer Steelhead appears. Don't miss the Campbell River Salmon Derby.

July

July is when things start to get really exciting in Campbell River. This is the beginning of Tyee season, with Chinooks weighing over 30 lbs on the cards. Sockeye, Pink, and Coho Salmon join them. This is peak season!

August

Diehard sportfishing fans will want to visit Campbell River from August 1 through September 15. This is Tyee rowing season, when small boats go out to target big fish. Check out the Annual Campbell River SalmonFest.

September

As the tourist season draws to an end, those in the know head to the local waters. This is time for Chum Salmon. These may not be the biggest fish, but they trump everything else in terms of size to fight ratio!

October

Campbell River fishing is all about Chum Salmon in October, as this fierce fighter floods the local waters. Couple this with lower accommodation costs, and you could say this is the best time to fish in Campbell River.

November

By November, the mature Salmon have moved on to their respective spawning rivers. But that doesn't mean there's nothing here for anglers: feeding Chinook are caught to the south of the town and Winter Steelhead is back.

December

If you thought winter fishing in British Columbia was a no go, you should think again. As well as Winter Steelhead, anglers can test their skills against smaller Chinook Salmon offshore. There's always something to catch.

Campbell River Fishing Calendar

Loading Fish Calendar!
Please Wait...

What anglers said about fishing in Campbell River

The captain admitted that the fishing is better prior to October but we had plenty of action.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The captain admitted that the fishing is better prior to October but we had plenty of action.
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Go with Royce and Kelly at Northwest Saltwater Adventure Charters!! They know all the good spots, and their boat and equipment are top notch!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Go with Royce and Kelly at Northwest Saltwater Adventure Charters!! They know all the good spots, and their boat and equipment are top notch!
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Northwest Saltwater Adventures Stanwood, WA
Fishing in May is a bit slower than July or August but it is not crowded. The pace of life is slower and the crowds are smaller which is what we wanted. We did not expect to Catch a large amount of fish but wanted the experience of fishing for salmon and being on the spring waters. Chris was a great guide and nice person to meet and fish with in the future. Had a good day and look forward to many meals from our salmon in the summer months ahead!
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Fishing in May is a bit slower than July or August but it is not crowded. The pace of life is slower and the crowds are smaller which is what we wanted. We did not expect to Catch a large amount of fish but wanted the experience of fishing for salmon and being on the spring waters. Chris was a great guide and nice person to meet and fish with in the future. Had a good day and look forward to many meals from our salmon in the summer months ahead!
Crabby's Fishing Charters
Crabby's Fishing Charters Kalispell, MT

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Campbell River?

PWC Salmon Angler
PWC Salmon Angler
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Captain Marc made it the best experience possible and went more than out of his way to accommodate us. Would highly recommend!
Will  F.
Will F.
PWC Salmon Angler
PWC Salmon Angler
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Captain Marc was very flexible to change our charter date to accommodate the best weather and tides. Captain Marc launched at dawn on a very cold winter morning. We arrived at the fishing grounds within 20 minutes and caught our first fish, Lingcod, in short order. Between cat naps, we caught a number of Lingcod between 8lbs & 20lbs. & a caught few small salmon. I had a good time fishing with PWC Salmon Angler.
Alex  L.
Alex L.
PWC Salmon Angler
PWC Salmon Angler
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Captain Marc spotted Orca Whales on our route to the fishing grounds. He brought us to camera range an witnessed the Orca pod "fishing" for spring salmon. Once Captain Marc reached the fishing grounds, we hooked up to coho & pink salmon. It was a great day on the water!
Amb  M.
Amb M. Campbell River, British Columbia
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(12 reviews)
Beautiful day with a very knowledgeable guide. Caught many salmon and released those that deserved to put on a few pounds. Look forward to a return visit in future.
John  M.
John M.
PWC Salmon Angler
PWC Salmon Angler
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Marc took my boy and I out just for prime time fishing - not wasting time taking us out earlier when he knew they wouldn't be biting. He knew exactly where the fish were biting and set us up to pull them in with ease. Relaxed guide that let us sit back and enjoy the trip. Highly recommend!
Alex  T.
Alex T. Campbell River, British Columbia
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(12 reviews)
. Excellent time as Captain and crew was great plus the bonus is we caught Chinooks and Cohos. Next time full day so we can get some Lingcod and maybe a halibut.
Blair  A.
Blair A. St. Catharines, ON
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(12 reviews)
Had a great day of fishing and good times. Royce is an excellent guide and Kelly was an awesome 1st mate. Would highly recommend ... we have already booked our next trip with them nice people nice boat good equipment all around A1
Joanne  W.
Joanne W. North Saanich, BC
Absolute Sportfishing
Absolute Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(34 reviews)
Five hours close to the harbor, so almost all was fishing time. Caught 3 species of salmon! The water wasnโ€™t crowed at all. Great trip!
Harold  S.
Harold S. Morton, WY
Absolute Sportfishing
Absolute Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(34 reviews)
Great day of fishing with lots of keepers and double headers. The day was filled with great stories and learning tips.
Donald  S.
Donald S. Chilliwack, BC
Absolute Sportfishing
Absolute Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(34 reviews)
My wife, son , daughter and I had an awesome day on the water. Captain Laurel was fun and interesting to interact with. He worked hard and was very patient with us the whole time. He found the fish for us; our arms were tired by the time we headed back. Great experience!
Bruce  B.
Bruce B. Maple Grove, MN
Absolute Sportfishing
Absolute Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(34 reviews)
Definitely a fun experience salmon fishing with Captain Laurel. He has a lot of experience, he is very attentive and fun.
Dina  M.
Dina M. Tucson, AZ
PWC Salmon Angler
PWC Salmon Angler
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Marc took me and my family out on a charter and we had an awesome time. My parents didnโ€™t have any previous fishing experience and Marc was the perfect guide and coach to help them reel in their first chinook and coho. He knew the best spots and there was always action on the rods. After 6 hrs on the water we came home with a big smile and the cooler was full of fish.
Benedikt  G.
Benedikt G. Campbell River, British Columbia
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(12 reviews)
We had so much fun during this trip. It was truly a memorable and unique experience. Royce and Kelly are very knowledgeable and skilled, we caught a good number of chinooks, cohos and a lingcod. To top it off some pods of orcas swam very close to our boat, what an incredible show to close the day! Definitely will book with them again and highly recommended.
Irine  P.
Irine P. Vancouver, BC
Absolute Sportfishing
Absolute Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(34 reviews)
It was a great experience. We wonโ€™t forget this for the rest of our lives. Laurel, in my opinion, is the best one could wish for on this trip.
Sacha  V.
Sacha V.
Outsider Charters Inc.
Outsider Charters Inc.
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(5 reviews)
We had a great experience with Captain Chris!! He was very knowledgeable and easy going. It does not matter if you are a beginner fisherman or a seasoned veteran, you will not be disappointed. The boat and equipment were modern, clean and in great working condition. We would highly recommend Outsider Charters Inc. and Captain Chris to anyone who wishes to have a great experience and a stress free day of catching fish!!! We will definitely book Chris the next time we visit the area!!!
Jeff  M.
Jeff M. Gilbert, AZ
Absolute Sportfishing
Absolute Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(34 reviews)
Capt. Laurel was great, giving wonderful tips using the equipment and making you feel right at home. Caught a lot of fish on our outing. Two thumps up.
Gary  B.
Gary B. Courtenay, British Columbia
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Northwest Saltwater Adventures
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(12 reviews)
Super fun day out with Royce and Kelly. We caught 20 chinook salmon between the 4 of us. Royce is great at explaining the equipment and making you feel comfortable reeling in the big ones! Highly recommend Northwest Saltwater Adventures.
Kristi  C.
Kristi C. Golden, BC
PWC Salmon Angler
PWC Salmon Angler
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Marc was fantastic, and the boat ride was incredible. We went for catch-and-release salmon fishing, even doing some DNA sampling. Setting crab traps at various spots added to the fun. Catching my first fish was an amazing experience. Marc's extensive knowledge of the area, particularly the inlets, enhanced the trip. It was an overall fantastic experience, thoroughly enjoyed by me and my friends from work.
Eshan  G.
Eshan G. Vancouver, British Columbia
Wild West Sport Fishing โ€“ Campbell River
Wild West Sport Fishing โ€“ Campbell River
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
4.3 / 5
(3 reviews)
Nice boat and crew- one beautiful Coho taken by our group. A great day outing!
Thurman  R.
Thurman R. Severna Park, MD
Absolute Sportfishing
Absolute Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Campbell River
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(34 reviews)
What a great day we had! Sunshine whales and fish. The boat was in top shape and condition the captain knowledgeable and super friendly. I will be a return customer, and a recommending customer to my friends.
Dale  H.
Dale H. Bowling Green, OH

Top Targeted Species in Campbell River

Nearby Fishing Destinations