Campbell river and Ocean straits

[Steve L.]

I'm heading up to the Campbell river next week for some salmon fishing. Everyone else is using gear, I'll be using my 10 wts. I've heard that fishing the Campbell is pretty much the same as our coastals, same patterns. I'll be tying up some weighted bait fish flies for the ocean. I am so stoked I can hardly stand it :yay: !

Any advice on the area would be appreciated.

The best part is that I'm going with a longtime friend (48 years) and my Dad. My Dad taught both of us to fish :bowdown: and we think this may be our last chance for the three of us to do this.

So any info you care to share so we can make the most of this trip would be greatly appreciated

[Steve L.]

Hmmm, 25 views and no replies :shrug:? Must have ticked everyone off. I didn't know I was that good :wink:

[AndyK]

Well, if I had ever fished up there, I'd make a reply.

Are stupid looks acceptable?

[Steve L.]

They ought to be, that's what I'm wearing. I'm sure someone around here has fished it, if not figuring it out will be part of the adventure.

[Chas]

Last time I fished the Campbell was back in late August of 89. Fished above the junction with the Quinsam and in the fly only water. The river tends to be tough wading and the runs well defined. access is or was via well maintained logging roads. The fish tend to range between 5-12 pounders, of which we never saw or touched one over 8. We stayed in town and drove up the river each morning. The fishing was slow with all our success being in the evening and early morning. If I were to return it would be with a guide. Considering it is with your Dad I would try and locate a guide to increase your odds.
Tight Line
Its all about the Hunt

Chas

[clacksteel]

I've never fished there, but good luck! It sounds like an awesome trip!

[cphatts]

I've only fished it for pinks and did pretty well right where the Quinsam dumps in. If I recall correctly there is a bridge right there at the confluence. When I was there in September, most of the Kings were still down in the tidewater so my guess is that in July you will probably want to be in the salt or very low tidewater. There is access to the lower tidewater if you drive around a bit. Its been many years since I've been up there so I dont recall the names of any roads.

There is a fly shop right on the river in Campbell River that should be able to help you out.

You may also want to consider taking a side trip to Strathcona Provicial Park....it is a very beautiful place.

Good Luck!

[Steve L.]

thanks Guys, I'll give a report when I'm back.