Fishing Rivers Inlet

Why it’s worth it, what’s working, lodging packages, how to get here, and more to help plan your adventure.

Fishing Rivers Inlet, British Columbia: A World-Class Salmon Destination

At Finn Bay Lodge, we often say that a trip to Rivers Inlet is more than just a fishing vacation—it’s a journey to one of the last great salmon frontiers. Tucked into the central coast of British Columbia, Rivers Inlet has earned legendary status among anglers for its abundant salmon runs, pristine waters, and breathtaking scenery. For guests who join us on our 4- and 5-night all-inclusive salmon fishing packages, it’s a chance to experience a true destination fishery where every detail is taken care of, from flights to meals to your gear on the water.

In this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive breakdown of fishing in Rivers Inlet: what makes it one of the most sought-after salmon destinations in the world, how the salmon migration plays out during the summer months, the common tactics and techniques that lead to success here, and how to easily reach our lodge from major hubs in the western United States. Whether you’re planning your first salmon adventure or returning for another season, this guide will help you understand exactly why Rivers Inlet and Finn Bay Lodge belong on every angler’s bucket list.

Why We Think Rivers Inlet Offers The Best Salmon Fishing In British Columbia

Rivers Inlet is renowned for producing some of the largest Chinook salmon in British Columbia, along with healthy runs of Coho and other salmon species. Its location along the migratory path makes it a staging ground for salmon pushing toward their natal rivers, and these fish arrive strong, aggressive, and ready to strike.

What sets Rivers Inlet apart is its remoteness and exclusivity. You’re fishing in a region accessible only by boat or seaplane, far removed from the crowds of urban fisheries. The inlet itself is surrounded by steep coastal mountains, waterfalls, and dense rainforest, creating a backdrop that’s every bit as memorable as the fish you’ll catch.

Rivers Inlet Salmon Migration: July & August

The peak of our season at Finn Bay Lodge falls in July and August, when the salmon migration is at its most dramatic.

Chinook Salmon (King Salmon): The giants of Rivers Inlet, often weighing 20–40 pounds, with the chance at even larger trophies. July is prime time for Chinook as they push through the inlet in numbers.
Coho Salmon (Silver Salmon): By late July and into August, the Coho begin to flood the system. These acrobatic fighters are famous for their explosive runs and tail-walking battles, and many guests love the fast-paced action they provide.
Other Species: Pink and chum salmon also move through in big waves, adding variety to the fishing opportunities.

The beauty of fishing Rivers Inlet during these months is the overlap – you can target Chinook early in the season and then transition into furious Coho action, often catching both in the same day.

Honduras Fly Fishing | Sunset Over Our Dock In Utila

Honduras Fly Fishing | Flats Fishing Produces

Rivers Inlet Salmon Fishing Tactics: What Works For Us

Fishing Rivers Inlet is a blend of time-tested local tactics and modern gear. At Finn Bay Lodge, we outfit every guest with the tools and knowledge they need for success.

Trolling with Downriggers: A classic method here, especially for Chinook. Using bait like anchovies or cut-plug herring trolled deep allows you to connect with salmon moving through the channels.
Mooching: This traditional BC style—drifting bait in the current—remains a favorite for its hands-on approach and thrilling hooksets.
Casting for Coho: By August, Coho are often near the surface and aggressive toward spoons, spinners, and plugs, making casting a blast for those who like more active fishing.
Top-of-the-Line Gear: Guests enjoy the use of Islander TR3 reels paired with premium rods, ensuring every salmon encounter feels as smooth as it does powerful.

Every trip includes full access to one of our Boston Whaler Montauks, legendary for their seaworthiness and stability. Out on the water, it’s just you, your fishing partner, and endless salmon opportunities.

Getting To Rivers Inlet

Despite its remote location, getting to Rivers Inlet is seamless thanks to our included round-trip air transportation from Vancouver to Finn Bay Lodge. Simply board the seaplane and let us handle the details. Guests often tell us that the flight itself—soaring over snowcapped mountains, fjords, and rainforest—is worth the trip alone.

For travelers coming from across the western half of the United States, reaching Rivers Inlet is easier than you might think:

From Seattle & the Pacific Northwest: A quick flight to Vancouver International Airport connects you directly to our chartered seaplane service.
From California (San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego): Major airlines offer frequent non-stop flights into Vancouver, where our staff will meet you and guide you to your floatplane departure.
From the Rockies (Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix): One-stop flights into Vancouver make travel straightforward, with plenty of connections through Seattle or Calgary.
From Alaska: Travelers often connect through Seattle or Vancouver before boarding the final leg of the journey to the lodge.

Once you step onto the dock at Finn Bay Lodge, you’ll be immersed in a world where everything is taken care of.

Stay At Finn Bay Lodge: Family-Owned Rivers Inlet Fishing Lodge

While the fishing is the main draw, guests quickly discover that Rivers Inlet offers so much more. At Finn Bay Lodge, we host a maximum of 18 guests at a time, ensuring an intimate and personal experience. Every guest enjoys private accommodations with a private bathroom—no rustic bunkhouses here, just modern comfort with sweeping coastal views right outside your door.

After a day on the water, you’ll return to meals prepared by our talented chef. Many guests say the food alone is worth the trip, with fresh, locally inspired dishes plated as beautifully as they taste. It’s the perfect balance of adventure by day and relaxation by evening.

What’s Included In Your Lodging Package

When you book a trip to Finn Bay Lodge, every detail is covered:

Round trip flights from Vancouver to Rivers Inlet
Private accommodations with ensuite bathrooms
All meals, snacks, and appetizers, crafted by our chef
Full access to Boston Whaler Montauks with fuel and bait included
Use of boots, jackets, and a brand-new Islander TR3 reel
Professional fish processing: your salmon filleted, vacuum-packed, and ready to take home

We Hope You’ll Come Experience Rivers Inlet

Rivers Inlet isn’t just another salmon fishery—it’s one of the most iconic salmon destinations in the world. For anglers seeking the thrill of battling wild Chinook and Coho in a setting that feels untouched by time, a stay at Finn Bay Lodge delivers the full package: world-class fishing, seamless travel, luxurious comfort, and unforgettable hospitality.

We’d love to welcome you to Rivers Inlet and show you firsthand why so many of our guests return year after year.