Salmon Spotting

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Where to see salmon

From summer to early winter, Pacific salmon return to rivers and streams around B.C. to spawn. Here’s the scoop on where and when you can expect to see salmon returning and the species you are most likely to see.

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Tips for spotting salmon this fall!

stay out of the stream

Stay away from streams when water levels are high. Streambeds may also contain redds (nests of salmon eggs). Walking in the water disturbs fish and can kill their eggs.

Be prepared for nature

Dress appropriately for local conditions and all kinds of weather. Polarized sunglasses can make it easier to see fish. Stay cautious if there are bears in your area.

Keep dogs on leash

If you come with a dog, keep your pet on a leash and out of the water OR leave your dog at home.

Do not disturb the salmon

Salmon can see you. Approach quietly and do not step into the river or throw rocks or sticks into the water.

learn how you can help

Learn more about Pacific salmon and how you can help. Consider volunteering with local streamkeepers!

Where to see salmon spawning in B.C.

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Where to spot salmon: Metro Vancouver and Sea-to-Sky

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Fall in Metro Vancouver signals the start of salmon spawning season for coho and chum, as well as pinks in odd-numbered years like 2025. 14.5 million pink salmon are predicted to return to the Fraser River in 2025! Here are some of our favourite…
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Where to spot salmon: Vancouver Island

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Here are some of our favourite public spots to view spawning salmon on Vancouver Island. We've included family-friendly locations with clearly marked trails and viewing areas. If you have a favourite spot to share, email us! Goldstream…
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Where to spot salmon: Southern Interior B.C.

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Here are some of our favourite public spots to view spawning salmon in the Southern Interior of B.C. We've included family friendly locations with clearly marked trails and viewing areas. If you have a favourite spot to share or more information…
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Where to spot salmon: Tri-Cities

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Fall in the Tri-Cities signals the start of salmon spawning season for coho and chum, as well as pinks in odd numbered years like 2025.  Here are some of our favourite public spots to view spawning salmon in Port Moody, Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam!…
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Where to spot salmon: Northern B.C.

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Here are five of our favourite public spots to view spawning salmon in Northern B.C., from Terrace to Prince George and Valemount. We’ve included family-friendly locations with clearly marked trails and viewing areas. If you have a favourite…
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Where to spot salmon: Fraser Valley

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Here are some of our favourite public spots to view spawning salmon in the Fraser Valley. We've included family-friendly locations with clearly marked trails and viewing areas. If you have a favourite spot to share, email us!   Chehalis…
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sockeye salmon spawning in the Adams River

Where to see salmon spawning this fall

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Born in freshwater rivers and streams, Pacific salmon migrate to the ocean where they spend several years feeding and growing, then return to their natal stream as spawning salmon to reproduce and die. On their upstream journey home, adult…
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Do you have a tip on where to spot salmon?

If you have a favourite place to spot salmon in B.C., let us know and we will add it to the map. If you’ve seen salmon, post your photos and videos in our Salmon Spotting Facebook group!

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