Fishing and Campbell River go together like bait and tackle. Long known as the Salmon Capital of the World, the town has a well-earned reputation for excellent fishing experiences. Let us lure you in with this two-day itinerary.
For a stay close to town with easy access to all the restaurants and amenities, Anchor Inn & Suites is a great choice and allows you to enjoy panoramic mountain & ocean views from the balconies. For a close-to-nature option, there is an abundance of campgrounds and RV sites to choose from. If you’re looking for a secluded luxury cabin or are bringing your boat, Browns Bay Resort, just 19km north of Campbell River, is an ideal base of operations.
Day to Day
Day One
Get Ready for a Day on the Water
No doubt you have a big day ahead of you so better get it started right, with a scrumptious breakfast. A visit to the Whistling Waffle ensures you won’t be hungry for quite some time – and yes, their menu extends well beyond waffles. For a superb cup of coffee, check out Island Grind Coffee & Tea for a latte, americano, espresso or whatever gets you going.
After breakfast, a quick stop at River Sportsman for any last-minute clothing or equipment purchases is well worth it. You might even get a local tip or two from the staff if you ask nicely.
Explore the Campbell and Quinsam Rivers
The great thing about fishing in Campbell River is that you don’t have to go very far out of town to find excellent fishing spots.
In fact, the town’s namesake Campbell River and its tributary Quinsam River are easy to access and known to be outstanding fly-fishing spots. Both spots have not only four out of five types of Pacific salmon (Chinook, Chum, Coho, Sockeye and Pink) but also scenic views, should you take your eyes off the water on occasion.
The best time for catching salmon in the Campbell River is from late July to October, whereas the Quinsam should be your choice from November to March.
See Discovery Passage With a Guide
If saltwater fishing is your goal, there are excellent guides and charter operators who have been taking visitors out into the Discovery Passage and beyond for decades. They’re also up-to-date with local weather conditions and fishing regulations. They know how to navigate these waters. A day out fishing with local experts will be a day to remember!
When the day is coming to an end and it’s time to recount the stories of the day’s adventure, head to Beach Fire Brewery for a taste of locally made craft beer accompanied by tasty meals.
Day Two
Come for Breakfast, Stay for the Fishing
Nothing starts off the day better than a hearty breakfast in a scenic location. Just a few minutes out of town, Angler’s Dining at Dolphin’s Resort is a joy to the senses with its oceanfront location, rustic wood charm, and historic fishing decor. Not to mention the artisanal breakfast items that get you fuelled for the day’s excursions.
You can also stay at Dolphin’s Resort for the fishing, and join one of their fishing experiences that range from guided ocean fishing charters to overland fly-fishing trips, or even exclusive helicopter fly-fishing – but be sure to book ahead for these.
Explore Echo Lake
No matter what time of the year you come to Campbell River, Echo Lake is an excellent, low-key spot to check out, and located just a short drive from town. Brimming with trout, the lake offers a calm fishing experience and makes for a perfect day trip.
Experience the Tyee Club Challenge
For a truly unique fishing challenge, try your luck at earning the coveted Tyee Club membership. This Campbell River tradition began in 1924. For almost a century, anglers in wooden rowboats have come to the Tyee Pool to land a Chinook salmon that weighs least 30 pounds, without assistance and under a strict set of rules and traditions. The season runs from mid-July to mid-September.
To close out your fishing adventure in Campbell River, enjoy a delightful evening with friends and locals at the oceanside Riptide Marine Pub.
Additional Resources
Whether you’ll have great success catching all kinds of salmon or you’re left telling the tale of the one that got away, you’ll want to be sure you have a comfortable place to rest your head after a day out on the water.
For a stay close to town with easy access to all the restaurants and amenities, Anchor Inn & Suites is a great choice and allows you to enjoy panoramic mountain & ocean views from the balconies. For a close-to-nature option, there is an abundance of campgrounds and RV sites to choose from. If you’re looking for a secluded luxury cabin or are bringing your boat, Browns Bay Resort, just 19km north of Campbell River, is an ideal base of operations.
Important Considerations
Be sure to check for up-to-date regulations on the Department of Fisheries and Oceans website.
Make Reservations
Big Rock Boat Ramp – Located on Hwy 19A across from the Big Rock Motel, this boat launch is free to use and has a parking lot for vehicles and trailers.
Brown’s Bay Resort – Located 19 km north of the city on Hwy 19, the resort has a pay-to-use boat ramp and access to moorage, fuel, and fish cleaning stations.
Salmon Point Resort – This boat launch is pay-to-use and requires a six-foot tide to launch. It is located on Salmon Point Road off of Hwy 19A, approximately 20 minutes south of the city.
Pacific Playgrounds – This pay-to-use boat launch also requires a six-foot tide. It is located on Clarkson Avenue off of Hwy 19A, approximately 20 minutes south of Campbell River.
