Recreational salmon fisheries have opened in tidal waters and in-river stretches of the Fraser River and in marine waters on the South Coast of B.C., but harvestable species vary by area.
While pink and sockeye salmon are currently plentiful, openings and limits apply by species to protect salmon populations of concern. Coho are particularly prone to catch-and-release mortality and some steelhead runs are on the brink of extirpation.
To minimize the risk to non-target species from catch and release, try to identify the species of salmon on your line before bringing it out of the water. If you intend to release the fish, use the gaff release method to remove the hook.
If you are unsure of the species on your line, ask other anglers for advice. Below is a field guide to Pacific salmon and steelhead. Know before you go.
Steelhead trout and Pacific salmon species migrate up B.C. rivers to spawn from late spring through autumn. Each species has distinct features.