Where to Fish > Regional Highlights

Regional Highlights

This information has been provided by BC Fishing Resorts and Outfitters Association; visit BCFROA's website to download a copy of the British Columbia 2008 Sport Fishing Guide and more! www.bcfroa.ca

Region 1 (Vancouver Island)

South Island - The south island is a tremendously popular choice for year-round saltwater fishing and is one of the few areas where Chinook salmon can be caught all year. The abundance and variety of species make this one of the province's best saltwater bets.

Gulf Islands - Saltwater fishing is available from all the Gulf Islands, particularly in the summer and fall months.

Central Island - From Nanaimo, Vancouver Island's second largest city, through the gorgeous scenery of the Qualicum, Parksville, Comox area, saltwater anglers can access the salmon and shellfish of the Strait of Georgia. Saltwater fishing is available from most coastal communities.

Pacific Rim - A renowned saltwater fishing destination, the Pacific Rim area offers exceptional salmon and halibut fishing from Port Alberni, Bamfield, Tofino and Ucluelet. Fleets of charters as well as resorts specializing in fishing await saltwater anglers.

North Central Island - Campbell River has been a spot for salmon fishing for more than a century and is the home of the legendary Tyee Club. West of Campbell River, Nootka Sound and Kyuquot Sound are known for consistent trophy catches.

North Island - Outstanding saltwater fishing is available from the northern tip of Vancouver Island. The North Island area includes the world-famous Rivers Inlet on the B.C. mainland, where huge salmon and halibut are caught every year. Hakai Pass, a renowned fishing area nearby, is also easily accessible from Rivers Inlet.

Region 2 (Lower Mainland)

Greater Vancouver - Vancouver is the starting point for excellent saltwater fishing adventures. Hot spots include the spectacularly scenic areas like English Bay and the mouth of the Capilano River with the Vancouver cityscape providing a captivating backdrop. Delta is situated at the mouth of the Fraser River and presents superb opportunities for taking advantage of the renowned Fraser River sockeye salmon run.

Sea to Sky Highway - Highway 99 hugs the mountainside along breathtaking Howe Sound as it takes travellers past waterside communities. Marinas are located along the shores of Howe Sound and fishing charters to this gorgeous waterway are available. Porteau Cove is a favourite landing for Chinook, as is Upper Howe Sound early in the season.

The Sunshine Coast - Saltwater anglers can expect great peak-season salmon fishing along the magnificent fjord-like coastline of the Sunshine Coast. The Strait of Georgia is a major salmon migration route and is accessible from any of the communities along this picturesque coast.

Region 3 (Thompson - Nicola)

Salmon runs - From late September to early November, you can see sockeye salmon spawning in many of areas along the Adams River. Every four years there is a major run of salmon in the Adams River. Other species of spawning salmon can be seen in areas of the Thompson, south Thompson and Clearwater Rivers.

Region 5

The Coast - The Cariboo coast is a paradise of saltwater fishing featuring world-famous Hakai Pass and Rivers Inlet as well as access to Ocean Falls, which together offer some of the most exciting fishing in the province with Chinook salmon weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

Region 6 (Skeena)

Prince Rupert and B.C.'s North Coast - Excellent saltwater fishing is available from the communities of Prince Rupert and Kitimat. The local waters support abundant populations of chinook, coho, pink, chum and sockeye salmon as well as halibut, lingcod, rockfish, crab and prawns.

Queen Charlotte Islands: Haida Gwaii - The Queen Charlotte Islands offer legendary saltwater fishing. These waters are home to abundant chinook, coho, sockeye, chum and pink salmon as well as halibut, lingcod, rockfish, dungeness crab and prawns.

Stewart - Saltwater charters are available in Stewart, which is located at the tip of the Portland Canal.