Campbell River may be renowned for its fishing opportunities, but there are other ways to engage in our wild ecosystems without taking up the sport yourself. A unique and educational spot we love to share with visitors is the Quinsam River Hatchery.
Located just off Highway 28, the Quinsam River Hatchery is where you can see juvenile salmon (all year) and returning salmon (late July to mid-November). Visitors can take self-guided tours seven days a week from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm.
The hatchery is responsible for roughly eight million Pink salmon eggs every year—supporting the waterways on the east coast of Vancouver Island from Campbell River to Nanaimo. Yet it also has far more involvement in our community than simply hatching salmon eggs. The Quinsam River Hatchery’s team is also involved in closely monitoring the health of the salmon and waterways in our region—from tagging salmon and biological sampling to various scientific research projects. This is all key information that helps ensure local governments and communities are abiding by the Pacific Salmon Treaty and supports the health of our salmon population.
Visiting the Quinsam River Hatchery in Campbell River
The best part of the hatchery if you’re looking to learn more about it is its Visitor Centre by the Quinsam River. Please note, that the gate is open from 8:oo am and locked promptly at 3:30 pm, so you’ll want to ensure you’ve moved your car by then. The Visitor Centre offers an abundance of education on the hatchery’s on-site operations, as well as their efforts in salmonoid enhancement throughout our rivers, and the salmon life cycle. Guided tours are available when their staff are available—you can phone ahead to book, as well as learn about any additional seasonal activities they have on offer.
Outside, you can take a self-guided tour with the aid of an educational pamphlet. You’ll see the hatchery’s pens, and depending on the time of year you might see tiny salmon fry joining the Quinsam River. Then, the adult salmon come in the Fall: Pink salmon in September, and usually from October to November there are Chinook and Coho salmon. Take the Quinsam River trail to follow the life cycle of these salmon further beyond the hatchery.
Even beyond its physical location, the team behind the hatchery are avid educators. On the nearby Canyon View Trail, you’ll see plenty of educational boards that share the life cycle of the fish that are found in our rivers. There are also areas of salmon enhancement and restoration projects.
It’s important to note this visiting the hatchery and its surrounding rivers means you’re in a wildlife area. Be wildlife aware, particularly those that feast on salmon in the Fall.
The Quinsam River Hatchery is located at 4217 Argonaut Road, Campbell River, BC, V9H 1P3. Phone: 250-287-9564
