BC Fish – When To Come

Our BC Fish Calendar displays the different species of  BC fish we target in our area, along with the best times to come and enjoy each of them.

For the most part, sturgeon fishing is consistent year round, but does slow down during the colder winter months. Having said that, as long as the water temperatures are favorable, great sturgeon fishing can be enjoyed during the winter months as well. Our peak season for sturgeon fishing starts in early April and continues right through until the first few weeks in Dec.

If you’re considering salmon fishing in BC, the best salmon fishing opportunities in our area exist from July until December. First to arrive are the large red Chinook Salmon, followed by the different Sockeye Salmon runs. On odd years only, large Pink Salmon runs enter the Fraser River, and overlap with the Sockeye Salmon runs. As the summer salmon stocks finish passing through, fall salmon stocks start to arrive in big numbers, including the large white Chinook Salmon, Chum Salmon, and the Coho Salmon. Some of the best salmon fishing in Canada can be experienced during our fall salmon fishing season.

Note: The Sockeye Salmon fishing in BC is strictly controlled by our Fisheries Department (DFO), with a very regulated fish retention season. Please check with us for up to date information on potential sockeye salmon retention openings.

Apart from salmon fishing and sturgeon fishing, British Columbia is also highly regarded as one of the top Steelhead river fishing destinations in North America. Steelhead fishing is available from mid-Dec until late April. The summer sea-run bull trout fishery peaks in June & July.

Please feel free to use the BC Fish Calendar as a tool to assist you in choosing the perfect time of the year for your next fishing adventure & holiday.