Natural Wonders: 4 Places to View Spawning Salmon in BC

Note: This story was originally published in 2018.

Fall is spawning season in British Columbia. That means you’ll see scores of salmon fighting their way upstream as they take their final journey. Head to the province’s mighty rivers and streams, camera in hand, to witness one of Mother Nature’s greatest spectacles.

3. Campbell River

Five species of salmon make their presence known in Campbell River, giving credence to the community’s self-proclaimed “Salmon Capital of the World” designation. Campbell River has long lured sportfishers to Vancouver Island’s east coast, but naturalists are equally compelled to seek out the pink, coho, chinook, chum, and sockeye that vie for attention, come fall. There are options aplenty for viewing, but should you wish for a more in-depth look into the life cycle of the mighty salmon, head to the Quinsam River Hatchery, just west of the city. It’s just one of the local hatcheries working to ensure a healthy, robust fish population.

Best time to visit: At Quinsam Hatchery, see pink salmon in September, and chinook and coho in October and November.

How to get there: Campbell River is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island. From the BC Ferries terminal in Nanaimo, head north on Hwy #19 for approximately 90 minutes.

Sockeye salmon in Adams River near Shuswap Lake | Chun Lee

Updated from original publication of September 20, 2016