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May 1 – September 30

Rockfish Fishing

Reef dwellers in the rocky structure around our islands — quillback, black, copper, and yellowtail.

The fish

Rockfish live in the rocky structure around our islands. Quillback, black, copper, and yellowtail are the keepers we target during the open season.

Handled with care

Rockfish are long-lived fish, so we handle them carefully — quick photos, gentle release of what we're not keeping, and barotrauma-aware handling when one has to go back. Note that Yelloweye rockfish are closed to retention in BC (a DFO conservation closure) — if one comes up by mistake, we release it carefully.

Season & regulations

Retention has been open May 1 – September 30 in recent DFO regulations, with daily limits that change — we fish within the rules as they stand on your date. Official sources are linked from useful links.

Book a Rockfish Fishing Trip

All gear and bait is included, and up to 6 guests can come along. Season and limits follow current DFO regulations — call and we'll tell you what's legal for your dates.

More Trips

Salmon Fishing

Chinook and Coho salmon fishing charters around Denman and Hornby Islands with Captain Pat. Springs year-round, Coho June to October, all gear included.

Lingcod Fishing

Lingcod charters around Denman and Hornby Islands. Aggressive ambush predators on the rocky reef structure, open May 1 – September 30 per current DFO regulations.

The Waters

Denman Island

Home base — rare Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem, quiet roads, and the ferry from Buckley Bay.

Hornby Island

Tribune Bay beaches, Helliwell Provincial Park, and a vibrant arts community one ferry past Denman.

Chrome Island

A staffed lighthouse off Denman's southern tip — seals, seabirds, and rich surrounding water.