Steveston dock sounds really cool actually. I've never fished salt and I like the idea of just being able to show up and drop a line in. I don't really care what I catch (if anything) it would just be nice to get a taste of what the lower mainland has to offer. If anyone has tips on gear/where to fish that could be helpful.
The trails at Capilano sound like a great day trip even if I don't get the chance to fish. I would be really keen on checking out the hatchery. I know there won't be any mature fish running, but is it still worth a visit? Does anyone know if they offer tours?
Thanks to everyone so far for the great ideas.
Not sure how familiar you are with the Lower Mainland/British Columbia... but if you want the "British Columbia fishing" experience, IMO I'd go to the Cap. It's a beautiful river...fast, steep narrow canyons, helmed in by towering trees etc...with a convenient trail around it. It's what I think of when someone says "what British Columbia has to offer..".
You can fish Ambleside (nearby..likely walk/jog it in 45 minutes from the hatchery) for that "ocean fishing" experience. You may not catch anything in either spots but you never know, at least you have a shot at a steelhead.
Then just before getting on the skytrain to go back, stop off in gastown and get yourself a well deserved pork belly sandwich at Meat and Bread, ask for extra crackling.
Steveston and the village are cool from a historical perspective and if you wanna a nice seaside lunch, and a little more urban/tourist type day... not knocking it, cause I've never done it...but herring are like 8 inches at best. I hear you though, sometimes I just feel like chill no hassle fishing. But float fishing on a rushing river in the forest is pretty cool.
Hrenya makes good points too ..