Port Edward: Fishing History on the Skeena River

The North Pacific Cannery is located on a narrow strip of land between the mountains and Inverness Passage, at the mouth of the Skeena River. The 19th- and 20th-century salmon cannery complex is now operated as a museum. Its location and insights into the fishing industry make Port Edward a destination for anyone looking to combine scenery and history.

West Coast Fishing History

In 1985, the North Pacific Cannery was designated a National Historic Site of Canada because of its connection to the West Coast fishing industry. Guided tours take visitors along historic boardwalks, through industrial buildings and homes, and into the wilderness surrounding the site. A tour lasts about 60 to 90 minutes; check the latest tour details before planning your visit.

The Cannery Life Tour focuses on the work and living conditions of employees, as well as their family and cultural connections. It includes people of Indigenous, Japanese, Chinese, and European heritage. The tour also includes the First Nations Net Loft and the Company Store, two buildings with limited access.

Exhibits on Daily Life, Technology, and Fishing

The “Village Housing” exhibit features a replica First Nations house and a diorama depicting up to 120 buildings in the First Nations village. In the “The Canning Line” exhibit, manual and mechanized canning lines meet. Methods and equipment illustrate how fresh West Coast salmon was packaged for an international market, while also offering a glimpse into more than 100 years of cannery history. Manual work and mechanization thus offer two different perspectives on processing.

“Fishing Methods” explores salmon as a resource and compares trolling, gillnetting, and purse seining. It also covers machinery that changed commercial fishing. The Railman's House focuses on employees who advocated for fair treatment and wages: stories and memorabilia tell of their efforts. The Salt Shed explores the former settlement of Port Essington through memories, stories, and objects.

You can also explore the scenery, architecture, and exhibits independently. The site also features a model railway exhibit, where the trains can be set in motion by inserting a coin. Regional cuisine and freshly brewed coffee are available at the Mess House; this offering may change.

More Activities in and Around Port Edward

Port Edward’s saltwater boat launch provides easy access to Chatham Sound and nearby fishing grounds. As information about the facility may change, check before your visit. The community skatepark is at 633 Sunset Drive. Its features include a mini half-pipe, three ramps of different sizes, several rails, and a few kickers.

For a hike nearby, consider Diana Lake Park. It has a moderately challenging trail of about three kilometres round trip. The cannery, skatepark, and trail offer different focuses: history and exhibits, a skateboarding facility, or a walking route. This lets you tailor your stay to your travel group's interests without limiting your experiences to a single theme.

Port Edward as a Place to Stay

When looking for a vacation rental in Port Edward, consider which of these focuses matters most for your trip. If you are primarily interested in fishing history, the North Pacific Cannery offers a specific reason to stay. If you also want to plan activities on the water, a visit to the skatepark, or a nearby trail, these provide additional options. Choose Port Edward as your destination based on the experiences that interest you, and look for accommodation to suit your itinerary.

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