Fishing | Vancouver Island, BC | Tourism BC

Vancouver Island Fishing

Halibut fishing from Port Renfrew, Anton Cepeliauskas photo

The waters on and around Vancouver Island are so prolific that both the "Salmon Capital of the World" (Campbell River) and the “Fly Fishing Capital of Canada” (Cowichan River) are found here.

Surrounded by the rich waters of the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver Island – recognized by Condé Nast Traveller magazine as the "Top North American Island" for seven years in a row – is known worldwide for its saltwater and freshwater fishing.

From Port Hardy and Rivers Inlet in the north to Victoria in the south, from the Pacific Rim communities in the west to Campbell River in the east, this region offers excellent year-round sport fishing opportunities. Most communities on Vancouver Island lie on or near the ocean, meaning anglers have nearly unlimited fishing opportunities, tours and services.

For suggestions on how to combine fishing and golfing in one vacation, check out Vancouver Island golfing and fishing trip ideas. Whale watching and wildlife viewing are also popular activities in this region.

Types of Fish on Vancouver Island

Salmon: All five species (coho, sockeye, pink, chum and some of the largest chinook salmon on the BC coast) swim here.
Steelhead: A highly prized, hard-fighting game fish; found in dozens of rivers and lakes in the region
Rainbow and cutthroat trout: Found in most lakes and rivers in the region
Halibut: This popular game fish is easily caught and can reach a huge size
Rockcod, lingcod: Caught nearly everywhere in coastal waters off the Island
Shellfish: Crabs, prawns, shrimp, oysters and clams share space with the fish, and are truly delectable.

Saltwater Fishing Highlights

Thanks to its mild climate and protected waters, Vancouver Island is the home of year-round salmon fishing. Popular fishing spots include:

Northern Vancouver Island: The communities of Port Hardy, Port McNeill and Alert Bay are located along the salmon migration route and offer consistent year-round fishing. To the south, Telegraph Cove is a popular hub for whale watching and ocean kayaking in Johnstone Strait and the Broughton Archipelago.
Rivers Inlet: Located north of Port Hardy on the coast of the mainland, Rivers Inlet is world-renowned as one of the best places to fish for trophy Chinook salmon. The huge salmon caught here can weigh more than 70lb/34kg.
Campbell River: Located in the middle of Vancouver Island's sheltered east coast, this town is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and is home to the world famous Tyee Club. Nootka Sound and Kyuquot Sound are also great saltwater fishing destinations, as they are both renowned for huge salmon and halibut.
Pacific Rim: The west coast of Vancouver Island is noted for consistently good salmon, lingcod and halibut fishing, a tradition that's thousands of years old here. Port Alberni, Tofino, Ucluelet and Bamfield are the gateways to these waters. Charter fleets and fishing lodges are available here.
South Island: These waters are a primary rearing area and migratory route for salmon. Saltwater fishing opportunities are plentiful in the Cowichan region and charters and guides can be arranged for departure from marinas in Cowichan Bay, Maple Bay, Crofton, Chemainus and Ladysmith.
Gulf Islands: This easily accessible and sheltered group of islands lie in the southern Strait of Georgia and are close to both Vancouver and Victoria. They offer year-round salmon fishing opportunities and are a haven for recreational boaters and anglers.

Freshwater Fishing Highlights

Vancouver Island is home to some of the best steelhead rivers in the province and features dedicated fly-fishing only streams. Popular rivers include:

Cowichan River: known as the “Fly Fishing Capital of Canada,” this heritage river is located near Duncan. Considered the finest trout stream on Vancouver Island, it offers over 20km/12mi of river access and dedicated fly-fishing only areas. Anglers flock here for the rainbow, cutthroat, brown trout, salmon and winter steelhead.
North Island: The Sayward Forest has the greatest concentration of trout fishing lakes on vancouver Island. Farther north, great freshwater fishing spots include Muchalat Lake, Vernon Lake, the Nimpkish River, Woss Lake, Klaklakama Lake, Nimpkish Lake and Shoen Lake.
Stamp/Somass rivers: These rivers are located near Port Alberni and are known for excellent trout and salmon fishing. Anglers target rainbow and cutthroat trout year-round; large runs of sockeye salmon in the summer; and coho and chinook in the fall. The Stamp River is also known for excellent steelhead fishing.
Campbell/Quinsam Rivers: Trout fishing is a year-round activity, with good salmon and steelhead fishing in the fall and winter months. For a unique opportunity to view salmon in their natural environment, try a “snorkel with salmon” trip down the Campbell River.
Central Island: Freshwater anglers have several options including trout fishing at Englishman River Falls Provincial Park and Cameron Lake west of Qualicum Beach. Little Qualicum River is another hot spot for trout, while Spider Lake, which bans motorized watercraft, has a reputation for bass. Fly fishing for coho along the shoreline at the mouth of Nile Creek and other Oceanside rivers is a popular fall activity.
Gold River: Considered one of the premiere steelhead rivers in the province. The small wilderness village bearing the same name offers access to the fish-rich waters of Nootka Sound on Vancouver Island’s west coast.
Salt Spring Island: Enjoy the laid-back reputation of this Gulf Island. St. Mary’s Lake and Weston Lake offer good fly fishing for a variety of species, including smallmouth bass, cutthroat trout and rainbow trout.

Practical Points and License Information

Appropriate fishing license(s) required for fresh and saltwater fishing. Both types can be purchased online via the BC Government's fishing websites or at sporting good stores and other fishing retailers.
Check with authorities for the current restriction status of sport fish catches.
Life jackets are mandatory in BC
Boating regulations may be in effect.

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1. Action Fishing with Wild Pacific Charters - Ucluelet

Main Dock - Boat Basin
Ucluelet, British Columbia
V0R 3A0

At Wild Pacific Charters, we provide fully guided offshore BC salmon fishing & halibut fishing charters. Our boats are Transport Canada Approved, reguired Coast Guard Equipment and have up-to-date equipment & electronics & we have years experience in saltwater fishing, with extensive knowledge of the local areas. All fishing gear & tackle supplied, fully insured & licensed. We invite you to enjoy a day of fishing for fantastic BC salmon, pacific halibut & various cod fish. Whales, sea lions, eagles & other wildlife can also be enjoyed on our fishing trips for no extra charge. Give Alan a call & book that fishing trip of a lifetime!

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2. Adventures at April Point Resort - Quadra Island

900 April Point Rd
Quadra Island, British Columbia
V0P 1N0

Some of the most exciting salmon runs in BC come past our doorstep.

Set off from the resort in a 17-foot Boston Whaler & fish the waters of Discovery Passage with an experienced guide who shares your passion & excitement for fishing. Our guides are BC salmon fishing experts with a vast knowledge of the region & a deep respect for the sport. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, your guide can set the hooks, offer new tips & techniques & help you reel in the catch you've been waiting for.

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3. Adventures with West Edge Fishing - Ucluelet

200 Hemlock St
Ucluelet, British Columbia
V0R 3A0

If you're looking for fast paced, exciting action in a safe and comfortable atmosphere, then this is the charter for you! Your friendly, professional guide has over a decade of experience & is service oriented. We take pride in showing our guests the experience of world-class sport fishing with a Grady White fishing vessel, top quality gear & safety equipment.

We will tailor the trip to suit your preferences & ensure a memorable West Coast experience. West Edge is Coast Guard approved, fully insured & Transport Canada certified. Care of the catch is a priority and credit card payments are accepted.

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4. AG-Fish Enterprises Salmon Fishing Charter - Quadra Island

Quathiaski Cove
Quadra Island, British Columbia
V0P 1N0

AG-Fish Enterprises specializes in saltwater salmon fishing charters in & around Quadra Island and Campbell River. A short 15-45 min cruise from the Quadra Island or Campbell River dock puts you in the middle of some of the best salmon fishing action. The waters around Quadra Island area are sheltered & offer calm seas. For your comfort, our fishing is from 7 m (23 ft) covered sport fishing cruiser, which is Transport Canada Certified & Approved, offering on-board toilets & the best equipment on the market. Join us for the fishing adventure of a lifetime!

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5. Archers Fishing Charters - Campbell River

705 South Island Hwy
Campbell River, British Columbia
V9W 2C2

Salmon Fishing Charters departing from Pier #1 at Fisherman's Wharf, near the Fishing Pier. Warm, comfortable 24 foot cruisers with top of the line electronics and gear, very experienced fishing guides, marine toilet, inside and outside seating. Famous for salmon fishing with five species of salmon to target our waters, which are protected from the open ocean by Vancouver Island and are teaming with fish and wildlife. It is usual to see an abundance of marine life including killer whales, porpoises, sea lions, seals, seabirds and bear on shore. Be sure to bring your camera to capture your memorable trip.

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6. BC Sport Fishing Guides - Port Alberni

If you are looking for a salt water fishing experience like no other, visit Nuu-chah-nulth territory on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. As one of the world's greatest sport fishing destinations, Vancouver Island's West Coast offers unparallelled opportunities for fishing enthusiasts, including all 5 species of Pacific salmon, giant halibut, bottom fish, shellfish & more. Today's Nuu-chah-nulth fishing guides are often the record keepers of family fishing spots & the inheritors of 10,000 years of fishing history. Visit this gateway website to meet the guides & find the trip that's right for you.

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7. Bones Bay Lodge - Minstrel Island

Bones Bay
Minstrel Island, British Columbia
V0P 1L0

Clio Channel near Minstrel Island, Knight Inlet is home to Bones Bay Resort/Float Lodge. Centrally anchored in the remote, pristine waters of Bones Bay, our small, intimate guest lodge is perfectly located. We provide guests the option to book Wildlife Eco-Tours, Fishing Adventures or Combination Stays.

These unique opportunities appeal to individuals, couples or families wanting a diverse and exciting vacation holiday that will offer the experience of a lifetime. Join us at our remote lodge for custom designed, fully guided tours and adventures.

Tired of the everyday rat race? Make this 'Your Last Resort!'

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8. Chad's Coastwide Sportsfishing - Port Hardy

6555 Hardy Bay Rd
Port Hardy, British Columbia
V0N 2P0

Coastwide Sports Fishing, in Port Hardy on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is where you find a pure, unique, hardcore BC saltwater salmon fishing experience! Coastwide Sports Fishing is owner operated & their goal is to supply you with a true BC saltwater sportfishing experience. At Coastwide Sports Fishing, they offer 2 or 3 person fully-guided, all-inclusive packages. You'll love your day's fishing aboard Coastwide Sportsfishing's 25' Grady White, appropriately named 'Tenacious'.

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9. Clayoquot Ventures Fishing Charters - Tofino

561 Campbell St
Tofino, British Columbia
V0R 2Z0

Tofino's Most Recommended Saltwater & Freshwater Fishing Outfitters Since 1996. You can pursue trophy-sized salmon, halibut & cod offshore, or explore protected inshore waters with light tackle or a fly rod for salmon & sea-run cutthroat, or enjoy a private day trip to fish remote, pristine streams & lakes for steelhead & trout. Our elite guide team and quality vessels will not disappoint you! Family & corporate groups are welcome, or if you are travelling on your own, please ask about shared charter options. Full-service Fly & Tackle Shop on-site. Tofino offers superb fine dining, scenic nature tours, endless beaches, spa moments & spectacular fishing - year after year.

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Salmon & Halibut Fishing! Bring a friend for FREE

1/2 Day or Full Day trips. Accommodation packages available. Ask about shared charter options

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10. Cleanline Sportfishing Tofino - Tofino

630 Campbell St
Tofino, British Columbia
V0R 2Z0

Located in beautiful Tofino, British Columbia on Vancouver Island's stunning west coast, Cleanline Sportfishing offers both saltwater and freshwater fishing experiences. Our premium charters are fully guided and outfitted, combining local knowledge and passion for the sport with attention to comfort and safety for our clients. Cleanline Sportfishing experiences can be fully customized for all ages and ability levels, and with every excursion we focus on best environmental and ethical fishing practices. Offering Salmon and Halibut fishing, Wilderness River Fishing, Saltwater FlyFishing charters all based from our Tofino BC location. We also offer a unique eco-fishing experience; great for families.

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Vancouver Island Fishing

Types of Fish on Vancouver Island

Saltwater Fishing Highlights

Freshwater Fishing Highlights

Practical Points and License Information

1. Action Fishing with Wild Pacific Charters - Ucluelet

2. Adventures at April Point Resort - Quadra Island

3. Adventures with West Edge Fishing - Ucluelet

4. AG-Fish Enterprises Salmon Fishing Charter - Quadra Island

5. Archers Fishing Charters - Campbell River

6. BC Sport Fishing Guides - Port Alberni

7. Bones Bay Lodge - Minstrel Island

8. Chad's Coastwide Sportsfishing - Port Hardy

9. Clayoquot Ventures Fishing Charters - Tofino

Salmon & Halibut Fishing! Bring a friend for FREE

10. Cleanline Sportfishing Tofino - Tofino

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