Fishing Charters
Outsider Charters Inc.
Campbell River
THINGS TO DO · FOUR SEASONS, ONE COAST
Cast a line into Discovery Passage, hike old-growth forests, and track grizzlies on the coast of Vancouver Island.
82 things to do · Updated October 2026Things To Do Guide · Campbell River Guide
Photo: Outsider Charters Inc. via Google
01AT A GLANCE
The details that matter.
Tour operators run whale and bear watching trips from spring through fall along the coast. Summer brings salmon fishing and boating to the local waters, while winter shifts the focus to snowshoeing in Strathcona Provincial Park. Year-round trails link sandy shorelines to inland waterfalls.
- Best season
- May-October
- Known for
- Salmon fishing, wildlife, hiking
- Getting around
- Car, ferry, tours
- Good to know
- Book summer fishing charters early
02THE STORY
Salmon, whales, waterfalls and old-growth, all close to town.
Few towns have this much wild country on the doorstep: Discovery Passage out front, Strathcona Park behind, and the Discovery Islands a ferry ride away.
The water comes first. Charters like Outsider Charters Inc. and Peniuk’s Sport Fishing Adventures leave from the downtown docks for chinook and coho, and Campbell River Whale Watching & Adventure Tours heads out from E Dock to look for humpbacks, orcas and grizzlies.
On land, Elk Falls is ten minutes from downtown, and Highway 28 runs west into Strathcona, the oldest provincial park in BC.
Then take the ferry to Quadra Island, where Wildcoast Adventures runs boat trips into the islands.
01MOST-LOVED
Where locals take their visitors.
Beaches, lookouts, museums and adventures with the most local love.
Fishing Charters
Fishing Storie Charters
Campbell River
Fishing Charters
Peniuk's Sport Fishing Adventures
Campbell River
Boat Tours
Campbell River Whale Watching & Adventure Tours
Campbell River
Boat Tours
Wildcoast Adventures
Quadra Island
Fishing Charters
Boonie Charters
Quathiaski Cove
Boat Tours
Eagle Eye Adventures
Campbell River
Boat Tours
Big Animal Encounters
Campbell River
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•GET OUTSIDE
Fishing charters and the coast.
World-class salmon fishing, deep-sea charters and coastal adventures, all in one place.
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•FOUR COMMUNITIES
Pick your side of the passage.
Campbell River, Quadra Island, Strathcona, and Cortes Island: four areas, each with its own favourites.
Explore The Region
•LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Coastal Adventures and Island Trails
Find out exactly where to launch a kayak, book a wildlife tour, or walk the suspension bridges across the surrounding wilderness.
The short answer
Begin your trip by walking the suspension bridge at Elk Falls or casting from the Discovery Fishing Pier. Next, book a fishing charter on Discovery Passage before heading into the alpine trails of Strathcona Provincial Park.
01Sun and Sand
Summer on the Coast
Summer on the coast means spending time by the water. The region has several beaches suited for a day of sun and beachcombing. Head to Stories Beach for its long sandy stretch and family-friendly environment, or visit Rotary Beach Park for direct ocean views. South of town, Saratoga Beach has a quieter, local scene. For a classic day out, Miracle Beach Provincial Park includes a wide shoreline and shaded forested trails.
The Sea Walk connects Willow Point to the downtown core with a paved pathway. It is a popular spot for a stroll past Big Rock before grabbing an ice cream. Across the passage on Quadra Island, secluded bays draw in the locals. In town, Hill Beach is an easy stop, while nearby lakes like Beavertail Lake and Upper Campbell Lake give you excellent spots for freshwater swimming.
The warm months make it easy to get out on the water. You can rent everything from paddleboards to speedboats from shops like CR Marine Tech or Limitless Marine & PowerSports. You can take a peaceful paddle along the shore or spend a day cruising Discovery Passage.
Local tips
- Parking at popular beaches fills up fast. Arrive early or consider cycling the Sea Walk.
- Many beaches have fire pits, but always check local fire bans before lighting one.
- Look for tidal shifts, as the currents in Discovery Passage can be very strong.
- Apply sunscreen and wear a hat because the coastal sun gets intense.
02Hit the Trails
Parks and Hiking Routes
Just west of downtown, Elk Falls is a major natural area with extensive trails routing through old-growth forests. The suspension bridge gives you panoramic views of the cascading falls and the deep canyon below. For an easier riverside stroll, the Canyon View Trail is a solid choice. The park stays open year-round for locals and visitors seeking a quick escape into the woods.
A major Vancouver Island draw is Strathcona Provincial Park, established over a century ago. This vast wilderness contains towering peaks and clear lakes. The trails to Lower Myra Falls and Upper Myra Falls are well-maintained for walking and give you close-up views of the cascading water. You can hike the rugged terrain of the park for days.
The region has diverse hiking opportunities. Nymph Falls Nature Park includes flat, accessible trails along the river. On Quadra Island, the Trout Creek Falls & Mohun Creek Falls Trailhead has a popular route that leads to quiet waterfalls. For more challenging hikes, Della Falls requires a steep ascent to one of Canada's highest waterfalls. Trent Falls also gives you a refreshing, shaded walk to a waterfall just outside the city limits.
Local tips
- Check trail conditions before you go, especially in spring and fall.
- Bring plenty of water, particularly for exposed trails in Strathcona Provincial Park.
- Wildlife, including bears and cougars, live in these woods. Be aware and make noise on the trails.
- The road to Myra Falls is paved but winding, so drive with care.
03Cast a Line
Fishing and Wildlife Tours
The area is widely known as the "Salmon Capital of the World", and getting out on the local waters is a must. The region holds all five species of Pacific salmon. The Tyee Club has been a local institution for decades, where anglers rowboat fish for massive Chinook. The Discovery Fishing Pier, Canada's first saltwater fishing pier, is a great spot to cast a line right in town.
To safely find the best fishing spots, consider booking a guided charter. Companies like Outsider Charters Inc. and Fishing Storie Charters run a variety of packages, from half-day to full-day excursions. These tours supply expert local knowledge and gear, allowing you to relax and reel in the catch. Other popular operators include Peniuk's Sport Fishing Adventures and Boonie Charters for deep-sea trips.
Get a look at local marine life with a sightseeing tour. Campbell River Whale Watching & Adventure Tours and Eagle Eye Adventures run trips to see orcas and humpbacks in Discovery Passage. For another coastal trip, stop by Big Animal Encounters or book a grizzly bear tour to Bute Inlet with Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours.
Local tips
- Many fishing charters require reservations well in advance, so book early.
- Dress in warm layers, as the ocean breeze gets chilly even in summer.
- Most charters can arrange to have your catch processed and shipped home for you.
- Bring a camera with a good zoom lens for wildlife tours.
04Get Active
Golfing and Paddling
With a long season and mountain scenery, the coastal region draws in outdoor enthusiasts. The area is home to several golf courses, including the Storey Creek Golf Club, which has an 18-hole course carved right into the natural forest. It is considered a challenging and scenic round where you might even spot local deer on the fairways.
Paddling is a great way to see the coast. The shoreline along Discovery Passage gives you clear views of the mountains and ocean. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from a local shop like Creek2Coast Paddlesports to cover more ground. For sea kayakers, the waters around Quadra Island and Cortes Island have everything from beginner-friendly bays to technical tidal rapids.
Boating on the local lakes is a classic local experience. From Buttle Lake and Morton Lake Provincial Park, you can find clear freshwater to paddle. If you are into trout fishing, swimming, or simply cruising along the shoreline, a day on the water is well spent. For a guided trip, book with Wildcoast Adventures or Adventure Quest Tours Canada to visit quieter bays and inlets.
Local tips
- Book tee times well in advance, especially for weekend mornings.
- The tidal currents in Discovery Passage are powerful. Consult tide charts before paddling.
- If you are new to ocean kayaking, consider hiring a guide or taking a short lesson.
- Always wear a life jacket when on the water.
05Winter Pursuits
Winter in the Alpine
When winter arrives, all eyes turn to Strathcona Provincial Park, a scenic drive west via Highway 28. Known for its rugged alpine terrain, the park has expansive areas for snowshoers and backcountry enthusiasts of all abilities. With snow-capped peaks and frozen lakes, it is a major Vancouver Island winter destination. The region is also excellent for winter photography.
There is more to the winter season than just the alpine. The coastal region has a wide range of winter activities for families. You can go storm watching along the shoreline, take a brisk walk on the Sea Walk, or walk the serene forested trails. For a bit more action, try a winter fishing charter in the sheltered waters, or hike the quiet trails at Elk Falls on a crisp afternoon.
Even within town, winter has its own appeal. Local parks like Hagel Park are popular spots for residents and visitors. The city hiking trails, like those at Canyon View Trail, take on a quiet beauty in the frost and are great for a winter walk. After a day in the cold, you can warm up at a cozy downtown cafe or catch a live performance at the Tidemark Theatre.
Local tips
- Check the road conditions before driving Highway 28 to Strathcona. Winter tires are mandatory.
- Dress in warm, waterproof layers, as coastal winter weather gets wet and changes quickly.
- Many summer activities, like hiking and some fishing charters, continue through the winter.
- Days are shorter in winter, so plan your outdoor trips for the morning and early afternoon.
06Inside and Out
Culture and Rainy Days
The downtown core acts as the cultural hub. Here you will find the Museum At Campbell River, which displays the Indigenous and pioneer history of the region. The waterfront houses the Maritime Heritage Centre, where you can learn about coastal working boats, and the Tidemark Theatre. Take a short ferry ride to Quadra Island to visit the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre at Cape Mudge, and walk the serene Quadra Island Community Centre grounds.
Families will find plenty to keep kids entertained. The Quinsam River Hatchery gives an educational look at the salmon life cycle, while Dick Murphy Park is a great spot to watch the boats go by. In town, locating the 50th Parallel Mark gives you a fun photo opportunity. On a mild day, walking the tidal pools along the rocky beaches or visiting The River Nook is a huge hit with younger children.
When the weather does not cooperate, there are many indoor options. Catch an exhibit at the local galleries or learn about the historic blasting of Ripple Rock at the museum. Many local cafes and shops give you a cozy retreat, making a downtown walking tour a great rainy-day activity. You can also browse the local boutiques or enjoy a performance at the Tidemark Theatre.
Local tips
- Admission to many museums is very affordable or by donation.
- Check the schedules for the Tidemark Theatre for live events and concerts.
- Book rainy-day activities in advance, as they get busy during winter storms.
- Look for 'Doug', the local persona, in community stories and events.
Outsider Charters Inc.Fishing Storie ChartersPeniuk's Sport Fishing AdventuresCampbell River Whale Watching & Adventure ToursWildcoast AdventuresBoonie ChartersEagle Eye AdventuresBig Animal EncountersCreek2Coast PaddlesportsAdventure Quest Tours CanadaCR Marine TechAdvanced Marine Power LtdBrown's River FallsBeavertail Lake
•THE FULL LIST
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Fishing ChartersOutsider Charters Inc.Campbell RiverFishing ChartersFishing Storie ChartersCampbell RiverFishing ChartersPeniuk's Sport Fishing AdventuresCampbell RiverBoat ToursCampbell River Whale Watching & Adventure ToursCampbell RiverBoat ToursWildcoast AdventuresQuadra IslandFishing ChartersBoonie ChartersQuathiaski CoveBoat ToursEagle Eye AdventuresCampbell RiverBoat ToursBig Animal EncountersCampbell River
Paddleboarding & KayakingCreek2Coast PaddlesportsCampbell River
Guided ToursAdventure Quest Tours CanadaCampbell River
Boat Rentals & MarinasCR Marine TechCampbell River
Boat Rentals & MarinasAdvanced Marine Power LtdCampbell River•STORIES
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•FAQ
Good to know
July and August bring warm, sunny days suited for coastal trips. September is also an excellent time to visit, bringing cooler weather, smaller crowds, and the start of the fall salmon runs in local rivers.