British Columbia, Canada
British Columbia (BC) is one of North America’s top fishing destinations, offering diverse fisheries ranging from pristine freshwater lakes and wild rivers to the rugged Pacific coastline. Anglers can target everything from massive salmon and steelhead to trophy-sized trout and deep-sea halibut. With stunning scenery, world-class lodges, and expert guides, BC delivers an unmatched fishing experience year-round.
Top Fishing Species in British Columbia
- Salmon (Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, Pink, Chum): BC is famous for its salmon fishing, with Chinook (king) salmon reaching record sizes. Coho are known for their acrobatic fights, while sockeye runs attract anglers from around the world.
- Steelhead: These powerful sea-run rainbow trout are prized for their strength and challenge, particularly in legendary rivers like the Skeena and Bulkley.
- Rainbow Trout & Cutthroat Trout: Found in BC’s lakes and rivers, these species provide excellent fly-fishing opportunities.
- Halibut: The coastal waters offer some of the largest halibut in the world, making for thrilling offshore fishing.
- Lingcod & Rockfish: These bottom-dwelling species are popular among saltwater anglers looking for a hard fight and great table fare.
- Sturgeon: The Fraser River is home to massive white sturgeon, some exceeding 10 feet in length, offering a once-in-a-lifetime angling experience.
Best Fishing Destinations in British Columbia
- Haida Gwaii: A remote archipelago renowned for trophy-sized salmon and halibut fishing.
- Vancouver Island: Home to world-class salmon, halibut, and steelhead fisheries, with hotspots like Campbell River and the Cowichan River.
- Skeena River System: One of the best places on the planet for steelhead and salmon fishing.
- Fraser River: Famous for its record-breaking white sturgeon and seasonal salmon runs.
- Quesnel & Cariboo Lakes: Excellent for wild trout fishing in a serene wilderness setting.
- The Inside Passage: A paradise for saltwater anglers, offering abundant salmon and halibut.
Types of Fishing in British Columbia
- Fly Fishing: BC’s rivers and lakes provide endless opportunities for fly anglers, from dry-fly fishing for rainbow trout to swinging flies for steelhead.
- Trolling: The most effective technique for targeting large Chinook salmon along BC’s coastlines.
- Drift Fishing: Popular in rivers like the Skeena and Fraser, especially for salmon and steelhead.
- Bottom Fishing: Offshore anglers target halibut, lingcod, and rockfish using jigs and bait.
- Sturgeon Fishing: Heavy tackle and strong lines are required for battling these prehistoric giants.
Best Time to Fish in British Columbia
- Salmon Fishing: Peak season varies by species, with Chinook best from May to September, Coho from July to October, and Sockeye during major runs in July-August.
- Steelhead: Winter-run steelhead peak from December to April, while summer-run steelhead are best from June to October.
- Trout Fishing: Excellent year-round, with peak dry-fly action in summer.
- Halibut & Bottom Fish: Best from May to September.
- Sturgeon Fishing: Strongest from April to November.
Plan Your British Columbia Fishing Adventure
From its legendary salmon runs to the thrill of catching giant sturgeon, British Columbia offers something for every angler. Whether you’re fishing remote backcountry lakes, casting flies on a wild river, or heading offshore for trophy halibut, BC is a true angler’s paradise. FishingExplora connects you with the best guides, lodges, and charters to make your BC fishing trip unforgettable.
