| Name | Quinsam Salmon Hatchery |
| Brief Description | See juvenile and adult salmon at the Quinsam Hatchery |
| Type | Attraction |
| Category | British Columbia Nature |
| Description | The Quinsam Hatchery has been in operation since 1974. Significantly boosting returns, it plays a vital role in restoring natural spawning runs to the Campbell/Quinsam Rivers, as well as assisting production of other systems such as the Puntledge and Oyster rivers. It also contributes significantly to commercial and recreational fishing in the region. Each year, four species of Pacific salmon and two species of sea-run trout return to the Quinsam and Campbell Rivers to spawn. Generally, the salmon spawn in the fall and the trout in the spring. The best time to observe returning adult salmon is from August to November. Adult salmon can be found throughout the river, but the largest concentration can usually be found just below the counting fence in the Quinsam River located a short walk from the hatchery. While you are here come and see our visitor centre. The highlight for visitors is the fish floor inside: it is a glass floor covering a re-creation of the nearby rivers with salmon, trout and other native aquatic species. It's the work of Quadra Island artist William van Orden who has developed his own technique for making replica fish from moulds. In this case, moulds made from fish and other aquatic species found in the Quinsam River. Visitors will be challenged to identify as many species as possible and then they can check their tally against the list posted inside the centre, which also provides a history of fishing, fish rearing and other neat stuff. This site offers a self-guided tour with the aid of a pamphlet guide; special tours can be pre-arranged depending of staff availability. The facility and surrounding river and streams present outstanding prospects to view salmon in their natural habitat and to observe the processes of a successful, effective hatchery. There are many walking trails to enjoy branching off along the river and many are wheel chair accessible. Caution is to be exercised in the fall months as it is not unusual to encounter black bears on the trail that are also very interested in salmon. Eagles are also often seen as the adult salmon begin to return. Located 5km from downtown Campbell River: drive west onto Hwy 28 (towards Gold River) and you won't miss the "Fish Hatchery" sign as you turn left onto Quinsam Road. We are open daily 8am-3.30pm 365 days of the year.
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| Address | 4217 Argonaut Road |
| CSZ | Campbell River, BC V9H 1P3 |
| Phone 1 | (250) 287-9564 |
| Email | edward.walls@dfo-mpo.gc.ca |
| Handicapped Accessible | No |
| Hours | 8am-3.30pm 7 days a week, 365 days a year |
| Website | www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/sep-pmvs/projects-projets/quinsam/quinsam-eng.html |
| Last Updated | 2/14/2024 |
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