Victoria fishing can provide some big time thrills for even the most seasoned angler. Situated on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, the capital of British Columbia offers direct access to the water. Within a few minutes, it is possible to get to any number of great saltwater sites, and for those who wish to switch things up, there is some excellent freshwater fishing to be had on the Cowichan River.

Saltwater fishing reigns supreme in Victoria, and it's easy to understand why. Chinook salmon, coho salmon, halibut, red snapper, and lingcod are among the fish that are most commonly caught as far as saltwater angling in Victoria is concerned, and they can get quite large. The halibut, for example, typically weigh anywhere from 40 to 100 pounds, and it's not uncommon for people to snag Chinooks that weigh between 10 and 60 pounds.

Angling enthusiasts don't have to limit themselves to fish when taking to the salty waters that surround Vancouver Island. Along the rocky shoreline, it is possible to catch prawns, crabs, and other kinds of shellfish. Numerous Victoria BC fishing charters offer wonderful saltwater angling opportunities, and regardless of whether you want to catch fish or shellfish, they are worth taking advantage of. After all, they know where all the top fishing spots, and it doesn't hurt that they can provide you with the necessary saltwater fishing license and all the pertinent equipment.

Victoria Map

It isn't all about the saltwater fishing opportunities in and around Victoria. The Cowichan River, which is found near Victoria on the southern side of Vancouver Island, is widely regarded as being one of the very best trout fishing streams in the entire British Columbia province. Many Victoria BC fishing charters offer trips to the Cowichan River, as do some of the fishing charters that are based in other area communities such as Sooke and Sidney. As such, it is just as easy for area residents and visitors to arrange a freshwater angling as it is a saltwater adventure. Shawnigan Lake is just one more freshwater fishing site worth keeping in mind on a Victoria vacation, and Vancouver Island is home to other lakes and rivers that can also be of interest for anglers.

Separate fishing licenses are required for saltwater fishing and freshwater fishing in British Columbia. For those who aren't planning on booking a charter trip where the license requirements are taken care of, picking up either license at a regional sporting goods store is among the options. Tackle shops also sell licenses, and they are known to provide fishing guides and other helpful information as well. Booking a fishing charter excursion is recommended for anyone who is unfamiliar with the area. In Victoria, the fishing charters are based in the Inner Harbour, and there are also operations in nearby destinations such as Sidney. Sidney, it should be noted, boasts both charter operations and marinas, not to mention a delightful fishing pier.

The Victoria BC fishing charters that take people on saltwater adventures offer more than just fishing opportunities. On some trips, whale watching is an activity that is enjoyed on the side, and kayaking or hanging out on a beach might also figure on the itinerary. The options are diverse, and depending on specific wants or needs, it is possible to arrange both private and shared charters.