By Salmon Seekers Fishing Charters — Excellence at Every Tide

Booking a day on the water with Salmon Seekers means stepping into an elevated West Coast experience with a high-end vessel, personal hospitality, and comfort features most charters simply don’t offer. Before you settle into our heated cabin, enjoy the privacy of a full onboard washroom, or head out into the Discovery Islands for world‑class salmon fishing, there’s one important step every angler must complete:

You need a valid BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence.

This guide walks you through the process clearly and confidently, reflecting the same organized, detail‑oriented approach Salmon Seekers brings to every charter. Whether this is your first fishing trip or you’re returning for another adventure, this resource ensures you arrive fully prepared and ready to enjoy an exceptional day on the water.

What Is a BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence?

A BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence (sometimes called a “saltwater licence”) is required to recreationally fish in saltwater anywhere on the BC coast. This includes all areas where Salmon Seekers operates: Campbell River, Quadra Island, Discovery Passage, and beyond.

The licence is issued by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and authorizes the recreational harvest of species such as:

  • Chinook
  • Coho
  • Halibut
  • Lingcod
  • Rockfish
  • Other Pacific groundfish

If you plan to keep salmon during your trip, you will also need a Salmon Conservation Stamp.

Licence Types: Which One Should You Choose?

One of the ways we simplify your experience is by helping you determine the licence that best fits your needs. Options include:

  • 1‑Day Licence — Best for guests joining us for a single charter.
  • 3‑Day Licence — Ideal for weekend trips or multi‑day bookings.
  • 5‑Day Licence — Perfect for vacationers fishing more than once.
  • Annual Licence (April 1–March 31) — Best for BC residents or frequent visitors.

Salmon Conservation Stamp (Required for Retaining Salmon)

This stamp is mandatory for anyone who wishes to keep salmon, regardless of age or licence duration. It must be added at checkout.

How to Get Your BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence (Step‑by‑Step)

We aim to make your entire experience streamlined and stress‑free. Purchasing your licence online typically takes 5–10 minutes.

Step 1 — Visit the National Recreational Licensing System

This is the official federal website for purchasing sport fishing licences.

Step 2 — Create an Account or Sign In

You will need your:

  • Email address
  • Legal name
  • Date of birth
  • Contact information

Step 3 — Select “Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence”

Choose your preferred licence length.

Step 4 — Add the Salmon Conservation Stamp

Required if you may retain salmon.

Step 5 — Complete Payment

Payments are securely processed online.

Step 6 — Save or Print Your Licence

You must have a printed or digital copy with you during your charter.

Do Guests on a Charter Still Need a Licence?

Yes. Every person actively fishing must hold their own licence. This includes youth. Even though Salmon Seekers provides a fully guided experience, licences are issued individually by the federal government and are mandatory on all tidal charters.

Our team handles everything else: premium gear, bait, safety equipment, coaching, comfort, and a vessel that sets a new standard for Campbell River charters. Your only required step is securing your licence.

Retaining Salmon

If you plan to keep salmon, make sure you add the Salmon Conservation Stamp. Once purchased, it remains valid for the entire licence year, even if your main licence is shorter.

Where Is This Licence Valid?

Your tidal licence allows you to fish anywhere in BC saltwater, including:

  • Campbell River
  • Quadra Island
  • Discovery Passage
  • Johnstone Strait
  • Strait of Georgia
  • Desolation Sound

Common Mistakes Guests Often Make

To help make your morning smoother, here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

  • Forgetting the Salmon Conservation Stamp
  • Accidentally purchasing a freshwater licence instead of a tidal licence
  • Not printing or saving the licence
  • Fishing with a previous season’s licence (annual licences expire March 31)
  • Buying the licence minutes before departure

Our onboarding call emphasized how important it is that guests feel organized and supported. Clear preparation ensures you can relax into the experience. No stress, no confusion.

Licence Cost Overview (Approximate)

Costs vary by residency and duration:

  • 1‑day: $5–$7
  • 3‑day: $15–$20
  • 5‑day: $20–$30
  • Annual: $30–$40
  • Salmon Stamp: ~$6

Why Your Licence Matters

Your licence supports:

  • Conservation programs
  • Salmon habitat restoration
  • Scientific research
  • Marine protection and enforcement

As a charter that values stewardship and education, we appreciate the role licences and stamps play in ensuring long‑term sustainability of BC’s fisheries.

What to Bring on Charter Day

See Main Article: What to Bring on Your Fishing Trip

One of the differentiators of Salmon Seekers is how effortless the experience feels. Arrive with:

  • Your tidal licence (digital or printed)
  • Photo ID
  • Weather‑appropriate clothing
  • Sunglasses & sunscreen

We provide everything else, including a heated cabin, full washroom, premium equipment, and an atmosphere built around comfort and professionalism.

Final Preparation Tips

  • Buy your licence at least 24 hours before departure.
  • Confirm your dates are correct.
  • Save a backup copy to your device.
  • Add the Salmon Conservation Stamp if you may keep fish.

Before You Go

A little preparation goes a long way. Once your BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence is sorted, you can simply look forward to an unforgettable day on the water. With Salmon Seekers, you’ll step aboard a comfortable, well-equipped vessel, guided by Captain Keith who handles every detail so you can focus on the adventure. Your licence is the final piece, after that, the rest is taken care of. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard for an exceptional West Coast experience.