Premier Campbell River fishing charter lodge and waterfront resort overlooking Discovery Passage.
Location: 1625 McDonald Rd, Campbell River, BC V9W 4S5
Access Point
Private Marina and Hotel Dock
Region
Campbell River, Vancouver Island East Coast
Painters Lodge is highly regarded for its rich fishing heritage and prime waterfront location on Discovery Passage. As a historic property with deep ties to the legendary Tyee Club, it offers anglers and travelers an authentic west coast BC fishing experience. Guests appreciate the seamless integration of comfortable lodge accommodations with direct dock access to guided fishing trips, whale watching, and marine adventures, making it a trusted hub for saltwater sport fishing enthusiasts.
Founded in the 1920s by Ned and June Painter, this iconic Campbell River Spit retreat was built on a vision of connecting guests to the untouched wilderness of the Pacific Northwest. Ned Painter was a pivotal figure in founding the Tyee Club and even crafted wooden rowboats for anglers, cementing the lodge’s deep roots in the local fishing ecosystem. Today, it remains a sanctuary where the beauty of the ocean meets boundless adventure. Whether you are casting a line in the fertile waters of Discovery Passage or relaxing in the historic Tyee Bar, the lodge offers a soul-stirring retreat that celebrates the maritime spirit of Vancouver Island.
The legendary trophy fish of Discovery Passage.
Aggressive fighters available in summer and fall.
Bottom fishing opportunities in deeper channels.
Available year-round, especially in winter months.
Native species to Discovery Passage waters.
Frequent visitors to the rich waters of the passage.
Often spotted during summer feeding seasons.
Playful pods often seen near boats.
Common sights along the rocky shores and docks.
Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, and Pigeon Guillemots.
Painters Lodge provides direct access to some of the most productive fishing grounds on Vancouver Island. From the historic Campbell River Spit to the deep channels of Discovery Passage, guests can explore diverse marine environments teeming with salmon and bottom fish.
| Season | Fishing Highlights | Target Species |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Migratory runs begin in Discovery Passage; excellent trolling opportunities. | Chinook (Spring) Salmon, Lingcod |
| Summer | Peak season for ocean fishing; long daylight hours and calm waters. | Coho Salmon, Halibut, Lingcod |
| Fall | Aggressive feeding frenzies as salmon return; thrilling topwater action. | Coho Salmon, Chum Salmon |
| Winter | Quieter waters with specialized cold-weather charters available. | Lingcod, Winter Chinook |
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Unlike standard motels or distant resorts, Painters Lodge offers a true angler’s heritage experience combined with modern comfort. Its historic connection to the Tyee Club and Ned Painter’s legacy gives it an authentic fishing culture that cannot be replicated. Furthermore, the ability to step out of your room and board a fishing charter directly from the private marina provides an unmatched level of convenience for marine tourism on Vancouver Island.
Explore top-rated fishing charters across Vancouver Island with experienced local guides offering unforgettable salmon, halibut, and ocean fishing adventures in some of BC's most scenic coastal waters.
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• Departure Point: Private Marina at Painters Lodge, 1625 McDonald Rd.
• Nearby Cities: Courtenay (1 hr drive), close to Campbell River downtown.
• Access Routes: 10-minute drive from Campbell River Airport (YBL), proximity to the Campbell River Ferry Terminal, and easily accessible via Highway 19.
Secure your waterfront room and arrange your fishing charter through the Marine Center today. Whether you are planning a spring salmon run or a summer halibut adventure, our team is ready to craft your perfect Vancouver Island fishing getaway.
Everything you need to know about Painters Lodge
Yes, all anglers fishing in British Columbia waters require a valid tidal waters fishing license and salmon stamp. The specific charter operators booked through our Marine Center will provide details on whether licenses are included or need to be purchased separately prior to your trip.
Campbell River and Discovery Passage are world-renowned for Chinook (Spring) and Coho salmon. Depending on the season and the charter you book, you can also target halibut, lingcod, and various bottom fish species.
Summer and early fall are the most popular seasons, offering peak salmon runs and excellent halibut fishing. However, spring provides great opportunities for Chinook, and winter lingcod fishing is also available for dedicated anglers.
Absolutely. The lodge offers family-friendly accommodations, including multi-bedroom cabins and lofts. Through the Marine Center, you can book guided trips tailored to beginners, as well as non-fishing activities like whale watching and kayaking for the whole family.
Trip durations vary depending on the specific charter booked through the Marine Center, typically ranging from half-day (4-5 hours) to full-day (8 hours) excursions. You can confirm the exact duration when reserving your trip at the front desk.
You can easily book your fishing charter, whale watching, or scuba diving adventure directly through our on-site Marine Center. Our team will help you choose the right trip and arrange for your captain to pick you up directly from the private hotel dock.