Chinook & Coho
Two salmon runs worth crossing the water for, in the rich seas around Denman and Hornby Islands.
Chinook are here year-round around Denman and Hornby Islands, peaking May through September — that's when you're most likely to hook a fish over 20 lbs, with Tyee potential. Winter Springs average 6–14 lbs: a quiet-season treat when the crowds are gone.
Coho run June through October at 4–15 lbs. They are notorious scrappers on light gear — they hit hard, run fast, and jump like crazy. One of the most exciting fish you'll hook into around the islands.
Captain Pat handles the boat, the gear, the bait, and the local knowledge — you bring the excitement. Up to 6 guests per trip, and every trip is tailored to your experience level.
Salmon fishing follows DFO's current regulations for this area — seasons, sizes, and retention limits can change year to year, and Chinook has had catch-and-release windows in recent seasons. We fish within the rules as they stand on your date. The useful links page points at the official DFO sources.
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.
Lingcod charters around Denman and Hornby Islands. Aggressive ambush predators on the rocky reef structure, open May 1 – September 30 per current DFO regulations.
Quillback, black, copper, and yellowtail rockfish on the reef structure around Denman and Hornby Islands, open May 1 – September 30. Carefully handled, per current DFO rules.
Home base — rare Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem, quiet roads, and the ferry from Buckley Bay.
The rich strait between Vancouver Island and Denman Island — shellfish farms, herring grounds, and Important Bird Area.
The strait between Denman and Hornby — wintering waterfowl, humpback feeding grounds, and an orca corridor.