Little Qualicum Hatchery

On this page

• About us
• Visiting the hatchery
• Key activities
• Local fishing and community involvement
• When can I see salmon?

About us

Little Qualicum Hatchery was built in 1979. The salmon produced at the hatchery are an important source of food for the First Nations food fishery and support the economic development of the Qualicum First Nations. Little Qualicum is one of only two water flow-control facilities in the province.

Visiting the hatchery

Directions

From the Inland Island Hwy (19), take the Memorial Ave exit (exit 60). Follow Memorial to the roundabout and then turn left onto Rupert Road and follow it until it turns into Laburnum Road. Turn left on Claymore Road and follow that to the hatchery parking lot. From the Island Highway (19A), take Laburnum Road, and turn right on Claymore Road.

Tours

Guided tours are not available at the Little Qualicum spawning channel. The public is welcome to walk around the site during working hours.

Key activities

• Fish production to support sustainable fisheries
• Stock conservation
• Stewardship and education
• Habitat restoration
• Stock assessment
• Coded wire tagging
• Indigenous partnerships
• External partnerships
• Water management

Local fishing and community involvement

• Freshwater: Region 1 - Vancouver Island
• Tidal Waters: Area 14 (Comox/Parksville/Denman and Hornby Islands)
• Community Projects: Central portion, east coast of Vancouver Island and adjacent mainland inlets

When can I see salmon?

Fall (mid-September to mid-November)