Summer in Campbell River means different things to different people. For me, nothing gets me in the summer mind set more quickly than visiting Discovery Pier. Even though tomorrow is the official first day of summer, I’ve already claimed my favorite bench by dripping Thai sauce and Diet Coke on it (and yes, I did wipe up both).
On a recent visit there was an elementary school class lining up with their partners to leave just as I was arriving. The medley of knapsacks was a sight to behold. As I walked along the approach I could see that the fishing rods the kids had been using were each neatly installed in the rod holders. They seemed abandoned and even a bit sad that they hadn’t been successful in providing fish for a local dinner table.
A family with a mother, a petite fair-haired daughter in a breezy dress, husband, and combination mother-in-law grandmother were in front of me at the concession stand. They all ordered ice cream but I was too busy eyeing the double scoop of mint chocolate chip in a waffle cone he ordered to pay attention to what the others chose. I was sorely tempted to change my lunch menu to ice cream but behaved and ordered my regular Pier lunch, a Thai chicken wrap with all the veggies.
I settled myself on The Bench, arranging my water bottle, book, and camera all within close reach but away from my bulging wrap. The concession peep had warmed it just a little bit in the microwave and it brought out all the flavours, from the sauce to the freshly sliced real chicken breast to the crunchy zucchini.
As I took the last bite, I caught a wonderous whiff of the fresh waffle cones. It was sugary, warm, and inviting all at the same time. Next time.
A man and woman strolled by, holding fish and chips with fresh wedges of lemon and tartar sauce peeking out from the overflowing newspaper cones they held. Next time.
Discovery Pier Facts (amaze your friends with your local knowledge):
Date opened: July 4, 1987
Length: 600 feet
Width: 24 feet
Cost to build: $1,200.000 (including parking lot and breakwater)
Number of fish cleaning stations: four
(information courtesy of the wonderfully terrific book Edge of Discovery, Ptarmigan Press, 1989)
The concession stand opens at 7:30am each morning and closes about half an hour after sunset. Fishing rod rental is available, as are fishing licenses, which are required before you dip your line. For info on rod and license costs call 250-286-6199 and talk to Ben or one of his friendly staff. This link takes you to the Recereational Fishing page of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada: http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/licence-permis/index-eng.htm
Looking for one of the best views of the Canada Day fireworks in town? This is it. But get there early.
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Business, Fun | ginaforsyth October 7, 2009 | 
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