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Salmon Fishing Vancouver Island’s Remote North Coast

When you go salmon fishing on Vancouver Island, the real magic starts when you leave the crowds. Head north into the wild waters of the Broughton Archipelago.

This remote and beautiful stretch of ocean is between Vancouver Island and the mainland and is home to some of the best salmon fishing on Vancouver Island. Whether you’re chasing Chinook, Coho, or Pink salmon, the rich tidal waters of this coastal wilderness draw seasoned anglers in their own boats. And don’t forget—you’ll also find fantastic halibut and salmon fishing Vancouver Island-style all in one place.


At The Bear & Tide, we provide an off-grid, boat-access wilderness retreat. It is the perfect basecamp for your next sports fishing adventure.


Why Fish the Broughton Archipelago?


This great fishing spot offers all types of fish:

- Chinook salmon fishing Vancouver Island style – big, hard-fighting kings.

- Fishing Coho salmon Vancouver Island – fast-paced action.

- Pink salmon fishing Vancouver Island – light-tackle fun in odd years (2025!).

- Halibut and salmon fishing Vancouver Island – deepwater meets predator-packed drift zones.

Pro tip: Guided fishing is popular around Vancouver Island. Exploring less crowded areas like Chatham Channel can help you catch more fish.

Salmon fishing boat Vancouver island
Camille out landing a salmon with her guest!

A Basecamp for Independent Boaters

If you’re bringing your own Vancouver Island aluminum boat salmon fishing setup, you’ll love staying at The Bear & Tide. Our protected dock gives you a secure place to tie up, and our cozy cabins offer a peaceful space to rest. A great way to get access to the best fishing spots without the cost of expensive fishing packages.

We are in Chatham Channel. It is a great place to start your fishing trips and explore other fishing areas. You can easily reach hot spots like Knight Inlet, Beware Passage, and Blackfish Sound. All of these are just a short cruise away.


Need fuel? Just a short ride away, Lagoon Cove Marina provides marine fuel, moorage, and friendly service:


Salmon Fishing Season on Vancouver Island

Timing is everything when you chase salmon, and different species of Pacific salmon often determine it. Here's a breakdown of the best time for salmon fishing Vancouver Island.


Salmon Fishing Seasons Time of  Year:

Sockeye Salmon from May to September.

Chinook (King March–Sept) best is June–Aug.

Catch Coho from July to October, with late summer being the best time.

You can find pink from mid-July to August in odd years, including 2025.

Chum Salmon is found towards Fall in September and October.

You can find halibut from May to September.


What You Need to Know About Rates & Regulations for BC Fish


To fish in the Broughtons, you need a special license. This license is for tidal waters sport fishing in British Columbia. Enjoy the fishing opportunities! You can get this license online.



As for salmon fishing Vancouver Island rates, you set the pace. No guide fees or charters—just your boat, gear, and stay.


More Than Just Fishing

Expect sightings of humpbacks, orcas, sea lions, dolphins, and even grizzly bears combing the shoreline.


King salmon fishing Vancouver Island also can't be beat - where Spring or Chinook Salmon can weight over 30 pounds!


Book Your Stay at The Bear & Tide

Plan your fishing trip from our remote, boat-access cabins—right in the heart of the salmon-rich Broughton Archipelago.


Don’t forget:

- Tide charts and fishing zone maps

- Layered clothing and waterproof gear

- Binoculars and a camera

- Backup rods and tackle


Book your stay today and make 2025 your best salmon season yet!


Resources for Planning Your Trip

- Canadian Sport Fishing Regulations: https://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/index-eng.html

- Buy a Tidal Fishing License: https://recfish-pechesportive.dfo-mpo.gc.ca

- Best launch spots: Telegraph Cove or Kelsey Bay (Sayward)

- Lagoon Cove Marina: https://www.lagooncovemarina.com

 
 
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