In a notice posted November 5, 2026, the City of Port Coquitlam said salmon are continuing to travel up the Coquitlam River to spawn, and that many have already completed their life cycle.
The City asks residents to minimize disturbances to the river by staying out of the water, keeping pets leashed and away from the water, and not throwing sticks or rocks into it. It also notes that a strong smell, even away from the riverbank, may come from the salmon spawn.
Bears may be fishing for salmon as they bulk up for winter. The City advises anyone who encounters a bear to keep their distance and remain calm. To keep streams clean, residents are asked not to litter and to make sure only water goes down storm drains.
The City notes that Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), not the City, regulates and monitors fishing during spawning season. Fisheries violations can be reported to DFO at 1-800-465-4336.