Summer Fishing Charters
Campbell River's legendary peak season! All 5 salmon species, warmest weather, longest days, and incredible wildlife viewing. Book early — summer fills fast!
All 5 Species
Peak Salmon Season
15-22°C
Warmest Weather
Longest Days
16+ Hours Daylight
Wildlife Peak
Orcas, Humpbacks
Why Summer is Peak Season
July and August represent the absolute peak of Campbell River's fishing season. All five Pacific salmon species converge in Discovery Passage — Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, Pink (odd years), and Chum. The variety and abundance is simply unmatched.
Summer provides the best conditions for families: warmest weather, calmest seas, and longest days. Wildlife viewing is at its peak with orcas and humpback whales following the salmon runs. It's the reason Campbell River earned its title as the "Salmon Capital of the World."
"Summer fishing here is extraordinary. When all five salmon species are running at once, you never know what's going to hit your line next. Trophy Chinook, acrobatic Coho, or a school of Pinks — it's the ultimate fishing experience."
— Captain Jason, Lead Guide
Salmon Species
Weather Conditions
Wildlife Viewing
Perfect Weather
All 5 Pacific Salmon Species
Summer is the only time all five salmon species are available in Campbell River waters simultaneously!
Chinook Salmon (King)
Trophy Chinook are the stars of summer fishing. These powerful fish range from 15-40+ pounds and provide the hardest fights and most spectacular catches.
- Peak: July-August
- Size: 15-40+ lbs
- Trophy season
Coho Salmon (Silver)
Acrobatic Coho provide non-stop action in summer. Known for spectacular aerial displays and aggressive strikes, they're a favorite for anglers of all skill levels.
- Peak: July-August
- Size: 6-15 lbs
- Acrobatic jumpers
Sockeye Salmon (Red)
Sockeye salmon pass through Discovery Passage en route to spawning grounds. Prized for their deep red flesh and excellent flavor — the ultimate table fare.
- Peak: July-August
- Size: 5-10 lbs
- Best eating quality
Pink Salmon (Humpies)
Pink salmon arrive in massive numbers during odd-numbered years. Fast-paced action perfect for kids and first-timers. Non-stop excitement!
- Peak: August (odd years)
- Size: 3-6 lbs
- Non-stop action
Chum Salmon (Dog)
Late summer brings powerful Chum salmon. These underrated fighters provide explosive strikes and hard runs. Excellent smoked or canned.
- Peak: Late August
- Size: 8-18 lbs
- Powerful fighters
Lingcod & Rockfish
Bottom fishing remains excellent throughout summer. Lingcod and various rockfish species provide variety when salmon action slows.
- Available: Year-round
- Variety of species
- Excellent eating
Summer Wildlife Highlights
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Orca Whales (Killer Whales)
Resident and transient orcas follow the salmon runs. Summer offers the best orca viewing of the year.
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Humpback Whales
Humpbacks feed on herring and krill. Breaching and tail-slapping displays are common in summer.
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Bald Eagles & Seabirds
Eagles, gulls, and cormorants are everywhere. The bird activity peaks during salmon runs.
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Sea Lions & Harbor Seals
Pinnipeds haul out on rocks and feed on salmon. Stellar sea lions create quite a spectacle!
Peak Wildlife Viewing
The salmon runs attract marine life from across the Pacific. Orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, seals, and thousands of seabirds converge on Discovery Passage to feast on the abundant salmon.
Summer wildlife encounters are truly spectacular. It's not uncommon to see orcas hunting, humpbacks breaching, eagles diving for fish, and sea lions battling over salmon — all in a single day on the water.
Combo Charters: Consider our Wildlife & Fishing Combo trip! Split the day between fishing and dedicated wildlife viewing for the complete Campbell River summer experience.
Perfect for Families
Summer provides the best conditions for family fishing adventures.
Warmest Weather
15-22°C temps perfect for kids who might get cold easily
Calm Seas
Protected waters with minimal swells reduce seasickness concerns
Non-Stop Action
Multiple species keep kids engaged and excited throughout the trip
Wildlife Viewing
Whales and sea lions provide entertainment between fishing
Summer Books Up Fast!
July and August are peak season for Campbell River fishing. Charters fill months in advance, especially weekends and holidays. If you're planning a summer trip, book as early as possible to secure your preferred dates.
We recommend booking 3-6 months ahead for July/August charters.
Check Availability NowBest Summer Charters
Our most popular charters for peak summer season.
Full Day Charter
- 8 hours targeting all 5 salmon species
- Maximum variety and action
- Best value for summer fishing
Half Day Charter
- 5 hours of peak summer fishing
- Perfect for kids and first-timers
- Heated cabin, WiFi included
Wildlife Combo
- Fishing + whale watching combined
- Orcas, humpbacks, sea lions
- Complete summer experience
Experience Peak Season Fishing
Summer is when Campbell River truly earns its title as the Salmon Capital of the World. All 5 salmon species, incredible wildlife, perfect weather. Book your summer charter today!
