Summer Saltwater Season - May to October
The summer fishing season begins in May. Through May and early June the best fishing is in the remote mountain inlets for Chinook Salmon. These fish are feeding on the oolichan runs and resident herring stocks until the glacial melt pushes this feed out of the inlets. The snow capped mountains of the inlets are a spectacular setting. Sea lions are frequently encountered at this time of year.
In mid June the main migratory runs of Chinook and Coho Salmon start to flow through Johnstone Strait past Campbell River. These prime, travelling fish are aggressively feeding. At this time of year we keep a sharp eye on the shallow water for fly fishing opportunities. A 25 pound chinook caught in 15 feet of water on a fly rod is an extreme pleasure.
At the beginning of August, abundant Pink and Sockeye Salmon runs begin. They offer fast-action fishing, great for kids as well as adults. Salmon-hunting Orcas follow these abundant fish. Sightings are daily. Tyee fishing (A Tyee is a Chinook over 30 pounds). This is a shallow water opportunity also at this time.
During September, Chinook fishing remains strong. Meanwhile, runsof Northern Coho and the extremely abundant Chum Salmon appear. These build up through October. The weather can be superb at this time. For those who have not tried Chum fishing, the fall is a treat. Chums average 10 to 20 pounds; andwhen the bites on, double and triple headers are common.
Freshwater Fishing
At any time throughout the summer, if conditions are right, I may recommend a river fishing trip for for Steelhead Salmon or Cutthroat Trout.
