Spring Chinook Filling Out – Catch & Release Action Heats Up

Spring Chinook Season is Building Momentum

Late May is prime time in Campbell River, and the Spring Chinook bite is heating up beautifully. Our guests are hooking into solid fish ranging from 15–25 lbs, and they're putting on the kind of runs that make your heart race. The fish are filling out nicely after their journey through Discovery Passage, and we're seeing consistent action throughout the week.

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Fish

Spring Chinook migrate through our waters en route to their home rivers, and right now they're staging in the nutrient-rich waters of Discovery Passage and Johnstone Strait. The seasonal conditions—longer daylight hours, warming water, and abundant baitfish—create ideal feeding windows. We're working productive structures and current lines where these magnificent fish congregate before pushing upriver.

Lingcod Join the Party

Don't overlook our supporting species. Lingcod opened May 1st and are firing on all cylinders. Double-header days are absolutely possible when you're targeting Chinook—hook a Chinook on one rod while a Lingcod grabs your second line, and you've got the makings of an unforgettable morning. It keeps the action non-stop and maximizes your time on the water.

Technique Tips for Success

Jigging and mooching are our go-to methods this time of year. Work the bottom structure and current breaks where Chinook hold. Early morning and late afternoon tend to be most productive, though the extended daylight gives us longer fishing windows than winter months. Our guides know exactly where the fish are staging—that local knowledge makes all the difference.

What to Expect This Week

Typical late-May conditions mean variable weather—bring layers and be prepared for wind, but don't let it scare you away. Some of our best fishing happens in imperfect conditions. The Chinook are here, they're hungry, and they're eager to test your skills on the end of a line. Expect solid hookup rates and heart-pounding battles.

Mark Your Calendar for July 15

Until then, we're all catch & release on Chinook—and honestly, there's something special about battling these fish and watching them swim back to their destiny. The energy and excitement are just as real, and every fish brings you closer to the July 15 retention opener.

Book your charter today and experience world-class Spring Chinook fishing in Campbell River.

Ready to experience world-class fishing in Campbell River? Book your charter trip with Fishing Storie Charters today. Captain Jason and the crew are ready to put you on fish.