Fishing on Vancouver Island is possible in both fresh and salt water, making British Columbia one of the top locations in the world for the serious fisherman. It is a popular island for both boaters and fisherman and is home to a large number of odd and unique species. Campbell River is one of the top locations on Vancouver Island and is recognised as the "Salmon Capital of the World" as well as the "Fly Fishing Capital of Canada." The Broughton Archipelago and the Johnstone Strait are wonderful locations for fishing and vacationing, while Telegraph Cove in the south is a well-liked destination for those interested in whale watching and ocean kayaking.
Uclet and Tofino located further up the island so a stay in Port Alberni is recommended if you intend to go fishing there. Both of these municipalities hold a salmon festival during a busy time and if you don't get seasick, a boat excursion to Big Bank for fishing is fantastic, but if you do, try to stay in calmer waters as this will ruin your day.
Condé Nast Traveler magazine has named Vancouver Island the "Top North American Island" for fishing for seven years running. Sport fishing is great year-round from the Pacific Rim to Port Hardy in the north and Victoria in the south. Other well-liked activities in this region include wildlife viewing, First Nations sites, and whale watching. Experienced and even novice fishermen alike can take advantage of nearly endless fishing opportunities.
The pleasant climate and protected waters are what make this island so well-known and ideal for year-round fishing. You may either launch your own boat from one of the many ramps or hire a charter to take you out however it is ideal to join a charter because the locals can teach you more about fishing and show you where to fish. If you decide to bring your own boat, make sure to check the weather and tides first.
There are literally dozens of different species of fish that fisherman enjoy to capture in the oceans that surround Vancouver Island, including six different species of salmon, rockfish, and halibut. The lakes and rivers of the Island are stocked with rainbow and cutthroat trout, and Vancouver is renowned for its halibut fishing. Fishing is permitted for five different species of salmon, including the largest prize, the Chinook, as well as the sockeye, coho, chum, and pink. These fish are easy to catch and develop to big sizes. Additionally, vast numbers of Lingcod and Rockcod are drawn to the island waters. Steelhead, another coveted game fish that is quite popular, puts up a great fight.
There are many possibilities for fishing available to those who dislike boats. Salmon, flat fish, herring, eel, rock fish, and octopus can all be caught while fishing from rocky outcrops, piers, and the beach. While you are out at sea attempting to land the catch of the day, the family can enjoy clamming, shrimping, and crab fishing along the island's coasts. Even if you don't find anything, you may still prepare a meal fit for a king using the fresh seafood items available in the neighbourhood stores.
Fishing in British Columbia on the weekend is simply unbeatable, but if you want to visit remote places, you might need to stay longer. Visitors benefit from a discount on the majority of items because the Canadian Dollar is valued lower than the US Dollar, Euro, and British Pound and prices are roughly equivalent. The only thing that is more expensive is gas. Fly and bottom fishing are also possible from boat cruises leaving from Victoria, although it is best to avoid those times of year when there are the most visitors and rates are at their highest.
Charter boats with live on-board captains will take you out for the day and show you the greatest fishing spots. Port Hardy, which serves as the gateway to the Queen Charlotte Islands, is among the best locations. Here, you can catch fish that are worthy of bragging about. Early in the season, you can find inexpensive fishing packages that include all of your fishing for a few days, flights from Vancouver, hotel, and fish packaging; these packages are reasonably affordable. Many fly-in lodges are available that include guides and all the frills for a more opulent excursion.
Don't leave Vancouver Island without going on at least one whale watching tour, if you can. The seas are the island attract Orcas, known as killer whales, Grey and Humpback whales, and dolphins making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience that everyone should enjoy. There is something extremely magical about seeing these large animals play in the water.
