Everyone talks about Campbell River's chinook. And they should — 30-pound kings are incredible. But if you ask the locals, many of them will tell you that fall is their favourite time to fish. Here's why coho season might be the best time for a wheelchair fishing charter.
Coho Are Aggressive
Coho (silver) salmon are wired differently than chinook. Where chinook fight deep and powerful — bulldogging toward the bottom — coho fight fast and acrobatic. They hit hard, run toward the surface, and jump. Repeatedly. An 8-pound coho will put on a show that a 20-pound chinook won't.
For wheelchair anglers, this matters. Coho fights are shorter but more intense. You don't need sustained grip strength for a 20-minute battle. A coho fight is 5-10 minutes of excitement, perfect for guests using electric reels or adapted grips. And when they jump? That's a moment you'll remember.
Fewer Crowds, Better Service
July and August are peak tourist season in Campbell River. The marina is busy, hotels are full, and the fishing grounds have more boats. September and October are quieter. Hotels have more availability (and often lower rates). The marina is calmer. On the water, we have more room to find fish without competing for spots.
For accessible travel, this matters. Fewer crowds mean easier navigation at the marina, shorter waits at restaurants, and a more relaxed overall experience. If accessibility logistics stress you out, fall removes a lot of that pressure.
The Weather Is Still Great
Campbell River in September and early October is beautiful. Daytime temperatures are typically 15-20°C (60-68°F). The rain hasn't really started yet. The fall colours on the surrounding mountains are stunning. Early morning fog burns off to clear skies. It's some of the best weather of the year — without the summer heat that can be an issue for SCI guests with temperature regulation challenges.
What Else Is Running
- Coho Salmon — Peak August through September, still strong in October
- Lingcod — Peak fall fishing as they move to shallow water
- Dungeness Crab — Still available into October
- Orcas — Resident pods still active following salmon runs
- Black Bears — Visible on shorelines feeding on spawning salmon
Book a Fall Charter
September and October spots go fast with returning guests. If fall fishing sounds like your thing, get in touch now to lock in your dates.
Book Fall Dates