Prince Rupert Fishing
Salmon fishing in Prince Rupert, Tourism BC/JF Bergeron photo
Ocean fishing is one of the major attractions in Prince Rupert. The large number of fish, combined with the relative small number of people to compete against, makes Prince Rupert stand out among other fishing locales in the province.
Fishing Season and Types of Fish
The prized catches on BC's Northwest Coast include halibut, Pacific salmon and other fish such as rockfish, lingcod, red snapper and cod. While all five species of Pacific salmon – sockeye, chinook, coho, chum and pinks – are in the area, fishers often seek to snag the chinook and coho.
Halibut can be fished year-round, but peak season is April to October. The chinook peak season is mid-April to mid-July and coho opportunities are best two months later, from mid-July to mid-September. Crab, shrimp and prawns are other tasty ocean treats that can be caught off the local docks, and in the harbour.
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Charter Boat Tours
Going on a charter is the most popular way to saltwater fish in Prince Rupert, although charters can be relatively expensive. Docking personal boats is possible; there are no boat rental outfits in town.
Day or overnight charters are a great choice, because guides know the area well and have local knowledge of what fish are biting where, at what depth and what bait is best suited. These factors change daily so unless visitors have knowledgeable local friends, they may have a tough time on their own. Many guides also drop crab traps in the morning to ensure their clients are able to take home some local shellfish as well as whatever they've caught at the end of the day.
Practical Points about Charters
There are nearly 75 charter guides in the Prince Rupert area, whose services range from basic to upscale. Finding one is not difficult, but the finest guides in the area fill their schedules quickly. Book ahead of time – at least a year is best. It's possible to find a guide on the fly but it may be difficult. Booking as a group is also recommended, as a guide is not always able to match individuals with groups.
To find a guide, look on the Tourism Prince Rupert website, call the Visitor Centre, or call a local charter booking agent.
Regulations, Licensing and Gear
Charters take care of all license requirements and provide gear such as rods, tackle and appropriate rain slicks. Anglers venturing out on the ocean on their own must ensure they have the required equipment and licenses for what they are fishing for and where.
A regulations booklets, the Sport Fishing Regulations Synopsis, can be found at the Prince Rupert Visitor Centre in the Atlin Terminal in Cow Bay, the main tourist hub. Double check with local fishing store staff if you aren't sure about regulations.
Exclusive fishing lodges are also in the area. Most are fly or boat-in only. Call the Visitor Centre for more information.
Freshwater fishing is also nearby in the Skeena River and other tributaries east on Highway 16 on the way to Terrace. Nearby lakes and streams are also good for trout fishing.
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153 Alpine Dr
Prince Rupert, British Columbia
V8J 4C5
Join Glenn Kierce, owner/operator of Deep Sea Charters, for a fishing adventure with Deep Sea Charters in Prince Rupert. Glenn is currently a commercial deep sea trawl skipper fisherman & a licensed charter fishing guide. He has over 25 years of knowledge personally & professionally in the fishing industry. Glenn's knowledge of the North Coast & Queen Charlotte waters is second to none. His passion in the industry is shown through his chosen profession & as a sport fishing charter guide. You will have an unforgettable experience with one of the most knowledgeable fishermen in this area.
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Foggy Point Charters is one of Prince Rupert's premier booking agents, representing Prince Rupert's top fishing guides & largest fleet. Let our personable & knowledgeable, locally trained fishing guides & shore staff arrange your custom North Coast fishing experience. Working with you, we can help with your trip planning requirements from restaurant reservations to accommodation. We pride ourselves on the ability to provide our customers with a safe, relaxing, memorable marine experience. We welcome both international & local customers to experience the amazing scenery & fishing of Northern BC. Experience your North Coast Marine Adventure with us.
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Lot 4 Dodge Cove
Prince Rupert, British Columbia
V8J 1A4
Adventure Fishing at it's best! Nestled 30 miles south of the Alaska border at the crossroads of two of BC's best salmon producing rivers, the Nass River and the Skeena River, lies Great Pacific Salmon Lodge; a fully guided, land based saltwater fishing lodge; featuring cosy, quiet accommodations, breathtaking views, fully enclosed Skagit Orca boats, and the best sport fishing on the entire coast. Based on Digby Island, a stone's throw from Prince Rupert, BC; Great Pacific Salmon Lodge will offer you outstanding world class fishing opportunities in renowned Chatham Sound, one of the most bountiful locations on the planet.
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121 George Hills Way
Prince Rupert, British Columbia
V8J 4H6
Come experience the adventure of a lifetime aboard the Thunder 1. World-class salmon & halibut fishing, spectacular whale watching & marine life viewing & gourmet meals all await you aboard your private yacht in the pristine wilderness of Northern BC. Three & four day all-inclusive live-aboard charters depart from Prince Rupert, BC from May to September. Accommodations are available for up to six guests aboard the Thunder 1, a 15.7 m (52 ft) trawler. Your crew & vessel are certified by the Coast Guard every year. Great Bear Rainforest and custom cruises also available. Please visit our website for pictures & details.
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