The Vancouver area offers plenty of fishing opportunities, whether you want to spend a day fishing from shore or catch something valuable in the deep sea. Saltwater and freshwater fishing is available here, but you'll also need a license for both of them.
British Columbia is a great place for salmon fishing as well as steelhead, trout, and halibut fishing. Stunning nature, numerous rivers, and thousands of kilometres of picturesque coastline are only small part of a real pleasure of fishing here.
If you are looking for river fishing, Capilano River, Fraser River, and Campbell River are very popular spots among locals. Rich populations of salmon, trout, sturgeon, and steelhead can be found here.
Campbell River is also known as the salmon capital of the world, where in summer season you can find all types of salmon. You can also spend a perfect day at the waterfront of Victoria, where you can have an amazing winter fishing for Chinook salmon; during summer these waters are full of large halibut, steelhead, and rainbow and cutthroat trout.
Chinook salmon is in season in spring as well, starting in April and lasting till late May when migratory chinook come to the local waters. At Fraser River, the peak season for chinook salmon lasts from mid to late August.
Some of the best Pacific fishing is offered by many special charters. If you want to go fishing from the piers choose the western part of the city, especially Ambleside and Dundarave. The Gulf Islands are also great fishing spots, especially in summer—this is when you can find the most diverse fishing opportunities. In mid-September, you can find thousands of coho concentrated off the West Vancouver shoreline. Any time of the year fishing in this region promises a good catch, but summers are the most diverse and suitable for everyone.
Practical info
What is the recommended time to go fishing in Vancouver?
Fishing in Vancouver is best between January and mid-November, as various types of fish can be found in the region during this time. Spring is the season for migratory Chinook salmon, while mid to late August is the peak season for chinook salmon at Fraser River. Summers are diverse and suitable for fishing as well. Show more
Which river fishing spots in Vancouver are popular?
Capilano River, Fraser River, and Campbell River are renowned for salmon, trout, sturgeon, and steelhead fishing. Campbell River is the world's salmon capital, where all types of salmon can be found in summer, while the Fraser River is a peak spot for Chinook salmon from mid to late August. Show more
What types of fish are available for the summer months in the Gulf Islands?
The Gulf Islands are ideal fishing spots during summer, and you can catch Chinook salmon, halibut, trout, and steelhead. The region's breathtaking scenery and picturesque coastline add to the fishing experience, making it memorable and enjoyable. Show more
When is the optimal time for Chinook salmon fishing at Fraser River?
The best time for Chinook salmon fishing at Fraser River is during mid to late August when the highest concentration of Chinook salmon is present. That's when expert anglers flock to the area to take advantage of the peak season, which lasts for several weeks, making it an ideal time to plan a fishing trip to Vancouver and its surroundings. Show more
Do fishing charters exist in Vancouver, and where can they be booked?
Of course! Fishing charters are a unique way to experience deep sea fishing in Vancouver, and many specialized charters are available in West Vancouver, Ambleside, Dundarave, and the Gulf Islands. Many charters offer full-day packages, including fishing gear and transportation, for an unforgettable experience. Show more
