British Columbia has some of the best fishing on the planet — salmon, halibut, trout, sturgeon, crab. But if you're in a wheelchair, finding accessible options has always been the hard part. This guide covers the regions, the resources, and the people who are making BC fishing more accessible.
Campbell River — The Salmon Capital
Why Campbell River
Campbell River is known worldwide as the Salmon Capital of the World. It sits on the east coast of Vancouver Island where the nutrient-rich waters of Discovery Passage funnel massive runs of chinook, coho, pink, and sockeye salmon past the doorstep.
It's also home to Wheelin N Reeling Adventures — the only purpose-built wheelchair accessible fishing charter on Vancouver Island. Our vessel was designed from scratch for wheelchair users, with a wide boarding ramp, open deck with tie-downs, and crew trained in accessibility.
Accessible Shore Fishing in Campbell River
- Discovery Pier — Paved, wide, wheelchair accessible. Fish for salmon right from the pier during peak runs (July-October).
- Tyee Spit — Compacted gravel path along the shore. Fishable from a wheelchair with wide tires or a beach wheelchair.
Vancouver Island
Victoria / Sooke
Victoria's Inner Harbour has paved waterfront access. Sooke offers halibut and salmon charters, though most boats aren't wheelchair-modified. Call ahead and ask specific questions about boarding, deck layout, and washroom access before booking.
Nanaimo
The Nanaimo waterfront is well-paved with accessible docks. Several charters operate from here — again, always confirm wheelchair accessibility before booking. The city has good accessible parking near the harbour.
Port Hardy / Telegraph Cove
Northern Vancouver Island is prime halibut and whale watching territory. The terrain is more rugged — accessible options are limited but improving. The Telegraph Cove boardwalk is partially accessible.
Fraser Valley & Lower Mainland
Fraser River Sturgeon
The Fraser River is home to massive white sturgeon — some over 10 feet long. Several sturgeon charters operate on jet boats with flat decks that may accommodate wheelchairs. The experience of catching a 6-foot prehistoric fish from a wheelchair is unlike anything else.
We support the Fraser River Sturgeon Conservation Society in their efforts to protect these incredible fish for future generations.
Stave Lake / Hayward Lake
Both have accessible fishing docks and paved trails to the water. Good for rainbow trout and kokanee. Day-use facilities have accessible washrooms.
Deer Lake Park (Burnaby)
Paved paths around the entire lake. Accessible fishing platforms on the south shore. Stocked with rainbow trout. Close to Vancouver if you want an easy accessible fishing outing without a long drive.
BC Interior
Kamloops / Merritt Lakes
The Kamloops area is legendary for trophy rainbow trout. Some lakeside resorts have accessible docks and pontoon boats with flat decks. Tunkwa Lake and Lac Le Jeune both have accessible camping and fishing access.
Okanagan
Okanagan Lake has public accessible docks in Kelowna and Penticton. Lake trout, rainbow, and kokanee are all targets. Waterfront parks are generally paved and wheelchair-friendly.
Resources & Organizations
- Rick Hansen Foundation
Advancing accessibility and inclusion across Canada. Their accessibility certification program is raising the bar for businesses including tourism operators.
- BC Freshwater Fishing Licence
Available online. People receiving BC disability assistance may qualify for a reduced-fee licence. Saltwater (tidal) licences are separate and available from DFO.
- Spinal Cord Injury BC
Peer support, recreation programs, and resources for people living with spinal cord injuries in British Columbia.
- BC Parks Accessible Facilities
Many BC provincial parks have accessible fishing docks, trails, and facilities. Check the BC Parks website for accessibility details on specific parks.
Tips for Finding Accessible Fishing in BC
Call charters directly and ask specific questions: ramp width, deck layout, washroom access, weight capacity
Ask for photos of the boarding area and deck — a real accessible setup looks different from a standard boat
Check if the crew has experience with wheelchair users — there's a difference between "we can try" and "we built this for you"
Look for purpose-built accessible vessels rather than standard boats with modifications
Ask about washroom access — many boats have a head but it may not be accessible
Bring a companion or caregiver, especially on your first trip — most charters accommodate them free or at reduced cost
Book early in the season (May-June) when waters are calmer and the fishing is excellent
Fish With Us in Campbell River
Our vessel was purpose-built for wheelchair users by someone who gets it. No guessing, no "we'll try to make it work" — just real accessibility on the water.