Campbell River Catch & Release Salmon Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target Chinook and Coho salmon in Campbell River watersCatch and release fishing promotes sustainable sportfishing practicesFourperson charter focuses on marine ecology education
Campbell River's legendary salmon runs meet conservation-minded angling on this top-rated catch and release charter. You'll target BC's premier salmon species while learning about marine ecology and sustainable fishing practices. Perfect for anglers who live for the fight and want those epic photos without keeping fish. Our 4-angler max ensures personalized attention and room to work when the big ones hit.
We launch from Campbell River's protected waters and head to productive salmon grounds where Chinook and Coho stage before their spawning runs. The experience focuses on clean releases using barbless hooks, proper handling techniques, and quick photography sessions. You'll learn why these waters earned their reputation as Canada's salmon capital while practicing ethical angling that helps preserve fish populations. The action varies with tides and seasons, but Campbell River's consistent runs mean good odds for multiple hookups. Expect to see harbor seals, eagles, and occasionally orcas following the salmon runs.
We fish primarily with downriggers and diving planers, pulling cut herring, spoons, and plugs through salmon travel corridors. Depths range from 30 to 120 feet depending on conditions and fish location. All rods are rigged with barbless hooks to ensure clean releases - we'll show you proper crimping techniques if you want to upgrade your home setup. We use circle hooks when bait fishing to reduce deep hooking, and our nets are rubber-coated to protect fish slime layers. GPS and sonar help us stay on productive structure while monitoring fish movements. Light tackle options available for guests who want maximum fight from smaller Coho.
Chinook salmon, known locally as "springs" or "kings," are the prize catch here. These bruisers range from 15 to 40 pounds, with occasional monsters pushing 50-plus. They fight deep with powerful runs and head shakes that'll test your drag system. Peak season runs from June through September, with the largest fish typically showing in July and August. Their silver sides and black-spotted backs make for stunning photos before release. Chinook prefer deeper water and structured bottom, often staging near underwater ledges and points where they ambush baitfish.
Coho salmon bring different excitement - they're acrobatic fighters that jump repeatedly and make blistering surface runs. Averaging 8 to 15 pounds, they're perfect on lighter tackle and provide consistent action during their peak runs from August through October. Coho have bright silver sides with small black spots above the lateral line, and their aggressive feeding behavior makes them willing biters. They often travel in schools, so multiple hookups are common when you find active fish. Their aerial displays and stamina make every fight memorable, even without keeping the fish.
This world-class catch and release experience combines Campbell River's renowned salmon fishing with responsible angling practices. You'll walk away with photos, new techniques, and the satisfaction of contributing to salmon conservation. The combination of consistent fish populations, stunning scenery, and educational value makes this a customer favorite among conservation-minded anglers. Book early for peak season dates - July through September fills up fast as word spreads about Campbell River's exceptional salmon fishing and our sustainable approach to sportfishing.
Our 27-foot Boston Whaler is the perfect platform for chasing Campbell River's legendary salmon. Twin 225HP Yamaha engines get you to the fish fast, hitting 45 knots when conditions call for it. The spacious cockpit comfortably handles up to 4 anglers without feeling cramped during those epic Chinook battles. Downriggers and quality tackle are ready to go, while the fish finder helps locate schools in deeper water. GPS and radar keep you fishing safely even when the marine layer rolls in. An icebox keeps your drinks cold during long days on the water, and the onboard toilet means no cutting trips short. Built tough for West Coast conditions, this Boston Whaler delivers the smooth, dry ride you need to focus on what matters – connecting with salmon in their prime habitat. Whether you're targeting aggressive Coho or testing your skills against trophy Chinook, this boat puts you in the game.
Campbell River