Canada

[SalmonEye]

Fishing Report for August 6, 2010Ucluelet, BCCanada: Salmon Eye Fish Charters

Despite fishing closures south of the border, large amounts of fish continue to swim through the nutrient rich waters of Barkley and Clayuquot Sound off of Ucluelet, making it one of the hottest places to fish for Salmon and Halibut.
Although prime times to fish can vary, fishing off of Ucluelet stays consistent throughout the summer because of its ideal proximity to three different large fishing areas. However, there are recommended times for specific varieties of Salmon.

Most recommended times are:
December-May for feeder Chinooks, with the first of the Halibut revealing themselves in the Ucluelet area around April.
July 15-September 10 in Ucluelet for large King Salmon
July, August and September are prime fishing months for Coho Salmon just offshore of Ucluelet

Ucluelet remains a premier fishing destination for enthusiasts hoping to bring home an impressive catch, with the best times to come from late June through July and August, to early September, although late September into October can still see some good action for feeding Chinook and Coho Salmon.

In the “now” for August 2010...
General Report

Salmon fishing continues to bring in nice, sizable fish, although most are in the 15-25 lb range and we are not seeing as many Salmon over 30lbs this year as I would have liked. These fish, however, are bright and lively, giving many a client a run for their money. Spectacular fights with these acrobatic fish have produced many a great story and fishing clients with sore arms and a proud gleam in their eyes for having won the contest.

Hotspots for King or Chinook salmon are continually moving around, meaning that guides are careful to communicate with each other and read the signs carefully to be “in the know” for the latest sweet spot. We have been getting some good action on the South bank, Southwest Corner, Big Bank and Inside Lighthouse bank. The Southwest corner or the Starfish have been a good bet for fishing Chinook over 20lbs. Having finished a 3-day opening, the commercial fleet is reporting nice catches of fish in the Southwest Corner area from between 20-70 feet down.
Some tips for fishing Southwest corner are: use large Tomic spoons or plugs if you are marking Pilchards; if fishing is slower on larger lures you can always go back to fishing with 4-5 inch spoons; also, pearl spoons are very consistent so that remains a good bet if you are unsure of what to put down.

Halibut have been in a few different spots, but most consistently these places have been closer in to shore. Big Bank has been the best and easiest area for trolling for Halibut right now.

Ucluelet Fisherman’s Salmon Derby, August 14-16

Top prize for the upcoming derby is going to be $10,000 dollars Canadian, and we expect around 300 people to enter for it, so chances are very good you could win the Derby this year. Check out www.uclueletsalmonderby.com for further updates on this Salmon Derby almost upon us.

Till next time!

Sam Vandervalk
Salmon Eye Fishing Charters
http://www.salmoneye.com/category/fishing-reports

[Tofinofish]

Tofino B.C. June 2010 Sport Fishing update

For those that have been on the west coast over the past few weeks, the strength and consistent patterns of “tuff” weather have dictated a variety of outdoor activities. Fishing for Salmon and Halibut has been excellent throughout the early season, so it has not been a question of “whether to go”, but “whether the weather” will allow you to have an enjoyable and safe experience....Looking at the upcoming forecast, sunshine and great fishing conditions are here once again for the Tofino area.
For many years, the pattern for sport fishing on the west coast of Vancouver Island has the month of June scheduled to fire on all cylinders, providing great angling opportunities for most of the Tofino area’s predominant saltwater species. Freshwater anglers are also somewhat hesitant to put away the waders and lighter tackle just yet, as local streams and lakes can be alive with hungry Trout, as well as a small number of Steelhead that enter various small local river systems through June and July. Every calendar year, June is the month of transition from spring to summer. For B.C.’s fishing calendar, June is when plans are made and memories unfold, while fishing opportunities all over the province turn from great, to excellent, and even “world class”. There is obviously good reason why the month of June also plays host to B.C.’s Family Fishing Weekend all over the province.
With the bulk of Tofino’s recreational fishing focused on Saltwater action, and consistent numbers of transient Chinook and Coho salmon passing through local waters from April thru July, there is reason to question if the peak season has shifted to June and July, as opposed to the highlighted August fishery of past years. Though Coho salmon numbers have been impressive since mid May, many understand that the inshore Coho fishing only gets better as we approach August. The abundant and aggressive Silver Salmon feed hard in and around Clayoquot Sound, prior to migrating southward to various large watersheds. The peak Coho Fly fishing and light tackle action begins through mid June, and stays consistently strong through mid September. The outside waters offer Chinook salmon fishing that will be reliable and steady for the season’s largest Salmon species, but the sheer numbers of transient Salmon and Halibut in the earlier part of the season have definitely encouraged anglers to consider the season’s best opportunities are now earlier than later. Along with the popular Salmon fishery, various species of Bottom fish help create a colourful mix to the experience. Offshore Salmon numbers during this time are unrivalled for the remainder of the season, aside from the waves of Coho that feed for extended periods within the prime habitat of Clayoquot, offering B.C.’s premier saltwater Fly fishing experience.
There is no doubt that the West Coast of Vancouver Island offers B.C.’s most consistent early season fishery and Tofino is right in the middle of all the action. Regardless of age or experience, big boat, small boat or no boat at all, Tofino’s varied fishing options should be highlighted on your calendar this June. For more information, guided fishing charters and updated reports, hook up with us at www.tofinofishing.com or visit our new Tofino location on the left just past RPM. Inquire about our 15th Anniversary special rates for great charter options and availability throughout June!!
Jay and the Clayoquot Ventures Fishing Team

[Tofinofish]

Following the last few seasons of extremely consistent sport fishing along Vancouver Island’s Pacific Rim region, and considering the 2009 season unfolded to likely be the strongest in the last decade, many would not have thought that the best is yet to come.
Recent indicators* for the 2010 fishing season on Vancouver Island’s west coast are pointing towards yet another banner year for Chinook and Coho Salmon numbers that travel and feed along the nutrient rich waters of Vancouver Island’s outer coastline. Without question, the strength and consistency of this area’s excellent fishing opportunities are due to the combined multitudes of Salmon stocks destined to various rivers and tributaries outside of the area, many of which are hatchery augmented runs. The runs that support such consistent fisheries for local and visiting anglers are primarily Chinook and Coho Salmon destined for the Fraser River, the Columbia River and enhanced stocks from Washington state, as well as Robertson Creek near Port Alberni. These transient salmon find the habitat and abundant food source along Tofino and Ucluelet’s offshore banks a prime setting for the juvenile stage of their life cycle, as well as the final adult stage, when they feed hard in preparation for the final journey to natal streams. This scenario is one that anglers anticipate each season, and fortunately it happens in our local waters as much or more than most areas of the B.C. coast.
For the 2010 season, the spring runs of Chinook salmon should appear along Tofino’s outer coastline earlier than recent years, with mid April through early May to see the first “wave” of southern migrating spring Chinook salmon. The waters that average 145-160 feet deep, approximately 4-8 miles offshore near Portland Pt., Three Humps and the Heisen Bank will be the go-to area for the Tofino area anglers. Trolling near the bottom with Anchovies or Needlefish hoochies as well as thin Needlefish style spoons are preferred methods to ensure success. A little further south towards Ucluelet and offshore on La Perouse Bank, some tolling depths are deeper in the gully areas, but a similar gear approach is often used. As the abundant schools of Sardines reappear in the area as a staple food source for the maturing Salmon, the preferred gear size increases with larger spoons and plugs becoming as popular as ever for this fishery. With a very similar timing and area outlined for early season Salmon success has also been extremely popular for Halibut fishing along the Island’s Pacific Rim. Over recent years, fishing has been very consistent for Halibut of various sizes, but catch opportunities may decrease with changes to fisheries regulations in 2010. Please consult local postings for updated information regarding Halibut fishing.
As a highlight, the peak of the salmon season may very well be earlier this year as well, with June looking to be excellent for a mix of Chinook and Coho, but all indications are leading towards July as the peak month for 2010. July has always been considered part of the peak summer season for Tofino and Ucluelet Fishing, but for 2010, the bulk of the Columbia River Chinook and Coho salmon present during that time should provide unrivalled fishing opportunities for the year.
In years past, the salmon fishery was focused closer to the coastline, and often by late summer, the majority of anglers would fish for the largest Chinook and Coho of the season within the protected inshore waters of Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds. The late season terminal area fishery in these areas has become much more conservative over the past 10 years, with the majority of the recreational fleet now fishing the offshore waters. While protecting the fragile local Chinook stocks inside Clayoquot Sound, the strength of the area’s inshore Coho fishery has rebounded to rival past years that helped label Clayoquot Sound as B.C.’s premier Saltwater Fly fishing destination. Schools of hungry Coho Salmon arrive in late May and early June, and thrive among the myriad of Islands, Reefs and Kelp Forests, foraging on abundant schools of Needlefish. Likely due in part to the beneficial conditions of the base stage of marine survival, these aggressive Coho have been reaching amazing size proportions by mid to late summer, and returning through the fall well past the end of October. This area and fishery has been favoured by many smaller vessel anglers, and has become extremely popular again, most notably for those that enjoy catching hard fighting Coho Salmon on a Fly Rod in the shallow, protected waters of the sound.
As in any fishing season, regardless of your location there can be highs and lows, but for 2010 we are looking forward to once again experience why Vancouver Island’s Pacific Rim area has been considered one of B.C.’s most reliable Sport Fishing destinations by many.
* Many of the most accurate predictions of fisheries researchers are based on the preceding year’s return of Juvenile male Salmon, also known as “Jacks”, which returned in strength to many rivers, but primarily to the Columbia River in 2009, arriving in numbers that smashed records back to the early 1960’s.

Jay Mohl operates Clayoquot Ventures, a Tofino Sport fishing company and Fly & Tackle Shop. Starting their 15th season in 2010, Clayoquot Ventures will be open in their new location at 561 Campbell Street, directly across from their original Storefront. See them online at www.tofinofishing.com or call 1-888-534-7422 for updated fishing and charter information.

- Jeremy Koreski images-

[SalmonEye]

Since the salmon and halibut fishing season is over, we at Salmon Eye Charters are looking for other ways to get our fishing fix.

In order to do this, we’ve been putting together some fishing videos of our clients this past summer. Take a look! We’ve had a lot of fun with these, and we hope you’ll enjoy them, too.


"WHOOOA! Look at him go!" Salmon Fishing Video
"The action is fast and crazy" Halibut Fishing Video

The videos were taken out of Ucluelet, BC, Canada. In the salmon fishing video, we trolled for salmon with flashers and coyote spoons, and in the halibut fishing video we bottom bounced.

You can also see pictures of our season on our fishing reports.

[Tofinofish]

2009 The Best Fishing in years for Tofino B.C.

Over the past few years, Tofino area Sport Fisherman have been fortunate to experience very consistent fishing, while some areas of the B.C. coast have had some tough times. The first three to four months of the 2009 Tofino fishing season have not only followed this recent trend, it has been nothing short of phenomenal. It has been many years since the first wave of transient Chinook Salmon have showed up in such full force, with very strong numbers and so large on average!! Fortunately the fishing has stayed very consistent since mid May, and is likely to continue through until the fall, with some very large and healthy Chinook and Coho Salmon landed and released.
For the Tofino area to see many Tyee class (30 lbs and over) Chinook salmon is not uncommon, but this normally happens in the peak of mature salmon migration in August, not at the beginning of the migration in mid May, and continuing through July. So far we have seen the normally consistent Halibut action that is common for April, May and June, to only compliment the Chinook fishery a short distance offshore. Many Halibut were caught while trolling deep for Chinook, on simple salmon gear set ups with Flashers and Anchovies, Spoons, and Needlefish hoochies. There is no doubt that the size and strength of these earlier season Chrome, Prime and Tasty Chinook salmon will rival the fight of a mature late season fish regardless of size. There have been accounts of Chinook salmon hitting the gear and not stopping until they almost spool the reel or bust off while heading south. Some of these long distance releases may be the relation the few 40 lb. Chinook already caught in the Tofino area over the last couple months.
Coho Salmon action has also been fantastic, with the outer coastline and inner waters of the sound providing an excellent fishery that we have been missing for a few years. The inshore waters of Clayoquot Sound and the outer coastline have once again become a great option for non-stop action in semi-protected waters, with smaller boats and light tackle or Fly anglers loving the ample baitfish and kelp beds that are like a magnet for feeding Coho and Chinook. The offshore waters are alive with Coho salmon in the top 80 feet of water, with the Chinook salmon dominating the action from lower depths. Alike the Chinook, the average size of the Coho indicates a strong ocean survival regime, with ample food source to pack on may more pounds over the next couple months. Fisheries forecasts of strong returns have been quite accurate so far, so with approximate numbers of nearly 1.5 Million Chinook, 2 Million Coho, 20 Million Pink Salmon as well as Sockeye and Chum, this is the season to get out and enjoy some of B.C.’s finest Sport Fishing in Tofino.
Clayoquot Ventures is excited to host a summer long Catch and Release Derby for Chinook salmon and Halibut! Our guide team is excited to see Clayoquot Ventures host this event, and in fact, the idea stems from their studies and efforts. After supporting the release of many large fish over the years, the Catch and Release Derby is just another way to add to the excitement of the catch and the thrill of the release to support sustainable fishing and tourism for the future.
Clayoquot Ventures also looks forward to seeing you this summer at our new location at 561 Campbell Street in Tofino, directly across from our current store front. Give us a call to find out how we can help point the bow of your own boat in the right direction, or join us on a memorable guided charter yet this year.

[Tofinofish]

The month of May kicked off the Tofino B.C. Saltwater fishing season in a big way, and it should only get better as we roll through June. After commercial and sport fishing the waters off the west coast of Vancouver Island for almost 30 years now, and I don’t remember many seasons when the first wave of transient Chinook Salmon have showed up in such force, with very strong numbers and so large on average!!
With local Saltwater and Freshwater fisheries in full swing, the angling opportunities in the Tofino area are primed for another great season. June is undoubtedly one of the finest months in the Clayoquot region to target some of British Columbia’s finest game fish.
For the Tofino B.C. area to see so many Tyee class (30 lbs and over) Chinook Salmon is not uncommon, but this normally happens in the peak of mature salmon migration in August, not at the beginning of the migration in mid May and through June...man are we in for it this year!! There is no doubt that the size and strength of these early season Chrome, Prime and Tasty Chinook salmon will rival the fight of a mature late season fish regardless of size. There have been accounts of Chinook Salmon hitting the gear and not stopping until they almost spool the reel or bust off while heading south. Some of these long distance releases may be the relation of the 40 lb. Chinook already caught in the Tofino area this past month. Anglers can expect fantastic Chinook salmon and Halibut fishing in the offshore banks from Tofino throughout the month, with the abundant bait fish stocks encouraging these fish to feed in the area for extended periods of time.
Both species can be caught while trolling deep along these underwater contours, but to ensure the best success for Halibut in the Tofino area, consider bottom bouncing fresh baits such as Octopus, Sardines or Herring. Anglers should note that retention of Halibut is set at one per day, with a possible change to 2 in season, and though we catch very few of the famous “Barn Door” sized fish in the Tofino area, we encourage the larger Halibut to be released in support of future stocks.
Chinook Salmon prefer Anchovies trolled with a tight roll, as well as a variety of Spoons. If you encounter schools of Sardines during this time, look towards the larger variety of spoons like the #6 and #7 Wonders or Oki Titans. With the presence of large bait fish in the area, don’t hesitate to match your gear size accordingly.
Coho Salmon are starting to show up as well, and looking very healthy as predicted. Saltwater Fly fisherman are experiencing the start of another great season in Clayoquot Sound, with numerous “Blueback” Coho readily taking small Shrimp, Clouser Minnows in pink or orange, and various small streamer patterns. These 3-6 lb. Salmon feed aggressively and grow fast throughout the remainder of the season.
With the strong presence of Coho and Chinook, we will see more boats fishing the near shore area and protected waters of the sound over the next few months. With an extremely strong presence of Pacific Sandlance (aka Needlefish) it is likely that the transient runs of Salmon will feed for extended periods in the Clayoquot area, before traveling further south. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada has predicted increased returns to many coastal rivers this season, along with highlighted forecasts of U.S. bound Chinook and Coho Salmon, and it sure is great to see that this part of their forecasting has come true so far, supporting a great outlook for the West coast of Vancouver Island.
Freshwater options are fantastic during this time, with prime timing for the downstream migration of Salmon fry, which attracts hungry Sea-Run Cutthroat to the lower rivers and estuary areas of local watersheds.
The pristine local lakes create another great option during this time, with Rainbow and Cutthroat Trout enjoying the warmer waters that have instigated the bug life that they have waited for all winter. Chironomids, Caddis, Olive Damsels, Leeches and Scuds are all “must have” bugs for the spring time lake fishery. Small spoons and spinners work great with light tackle as well.

We look forward to helping with further questions about fishing yet this season, and will be back soon to share more good news about Tofino’s great Sport Fishing opportunities.

[Tofinofish]

May 15th Sport Fishing update Tofino/Clayoquot Sound B.C.


With recent weather patterns providing a day to day mix of all types, springtime conditions may be a little delayed, but not totally abnormal.
Also a little later than normal, the Tofino sport fishing conditions and opportunities for Chinook Salmon and Halibut were slowed a bit by the mixed weather conditions, as well as the anticipated wait for the first strong runs of transient Chinook Salmon heading south past the coastline of Clayoquot Sound. The springtime waiting game is over on many fronts, with timely indicators prevalent in many areas both on land and sea. During the same time that local Cherry trees blossom, and the Black bears roam the hillsides and beaches in search of their spring forage, there are also many ocean indicators that help notify anglers that the “Spring Season” is upon us. Local Fishermen know the Salmon are here or near when current indicators at sea are so obvious. Acres upon acres of Krill or Plankton a short distance offshore have created massive clouds of the nutrient rich base food source for most local aquatic species. Amazing numbers of Humpback whales, marine mammals and birds, as well as aggressively feeding Chinook salmon, Halibut and various other fish species are currently enjoying one of nature’s best spring-time offerings. On a very positive note, there have been reports from many areas of the coast that the plankton abundance is extremely strong, supporting many marine species.
Over the past week in the Tofino/ Clayoquot Sound area, Chinook salmon fishing has increased dramatically, with consistent action and catches for those to enjoy the best tasting salmon of the season. Most Chinook Salmon have been caught offshore from Tofino approximately 4-6 miles, while trolling near clouds of bait like the pre-mentioned Plankton, as well schools of commonly abundant Needlefish. On the tougher weather days, the salmon fishing inshore has been very good as well, with spots very near Tofino harbour, creating close and reliable option. The offshore areas for Salmon fishing have also been hot spots for Halibut fishing, with many Halibut being caught while trolling for Salmon. To catch Halibut this way is not uncommon, especially when trolling with baits like Anchovies or Herring near the bottom. Coho Salmon are also starting to show up, with these likely being the start of the Columbia River summer run of Coho that is anticipated to be extremely strong over the next three to Four months.

Image included shows Paul from Calgary on a repeat trip to Tofino, with a great catch from early May.



With nature serving up a mixed bag of weather as we approach summer, it is much easier to take with the great fishing we have been waiting for, and the great fishing forecast ahead for the 2009 season.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for further details and information for your next fishing adventure in the Tofino area.


www.tofinofishing.com

"TOFINO'S MOST RECOMMENDED FISHING OUTFITTER SINCE 1996"

[Tofinofish]

Coho and Pink Salmon - Mother Nature’s Stimulus Package

There is no disputing that Chinook Salmon, specifically TYEE Chinook over 30 lbs have been a focal point of many sports fishermen’s’ dreams. With Chinook being the largest and most powerful on average, nature’s “King” of all Salmon often holds the spotlight in comparison to its’ four Pacific cousins; Chum, Sockeye, Coho and Pink. Where the other four species may not dominate in size and brute strength, they do help make up for the Chinooks salmon’s shortcomings in sheer numbers for their run size returning to natal streams.
For the 2009 Sports Fishing season in the Tofino area, Coho and Pink are two sub-species of Salmon that will undoubtedly help not only local sports fishing and sustenance opportunities, but the river ecosystems of their origin. With much discussion about ocean survival conditions and habitat being key factors in salmon survival, combining the two factors can have a very positive effect. Though the Tofino region doesn’t experience local salmon returns in the millions, or even the hundreds of thousands to our small to medium sized rivers of Clayoquot, the strength in numbers of salmon returning to spawn is obviously vital for many that benefit, including the riparian ecosystems.
Less discussed, but equally important is the decaying salmon carcasses and subsequent fertilization of stream bed areas in the way of enriched nitrogen to the ecosystem. Research has indicated that trees and shrubs near spawning streams derive approximately 24% of their foliar nitrogen from spawning salmon. With the aid of this nutrient subsidy, growth rates are significantly increased in spawning streams. Riparian forests affect the quality of in-stream habitat through shading, sediment and nutrient filtration, this fertilization process serves not only to enhance riparian production, but may also improve spawning and rearing habitat for subsequent salmon generations and maintain the long-term productivity of rivers along the Pacific coast. It really is a simple equation, strong runs of salmon equals a healthier Rainforest ecosystem.
Local Coho Salmon numbers are anticipated to experience a fair increase again in 2009, following a pretty solid return last season with remarkably large fish on average. The biggest news comes from south of the border, where the Columbia River Coho salmon forecasted return has been upgraded to 1.3 Million, which rivals peak numbers from the early 90’s. The strength of Columbia River Coho run is a very strong component in supporting Tofino and Ucluelet area sport fishing opportunities, most specifically the inshore action for Fly and light tackle anglers. Very strong numbers of Coho grilse were present along the West Coast of Vancouver Island late last season, which is a great indicator for future stocks, as well as the state of the ocean off the west coast of the island.
The Tofino Area Rivers and streams historically hosted large runs of Pink salmon, but we do benefit from transient Fraser River Pink salmon that are forecasted to arrive approximately 2 million fish over the historic average, with likely numbers in around 14 million salmon. This season will be a prime opportunity to help expose someone new to recreational fishing in the saltwater, as well as benefit from Mother Nature’s version of stimulus to support angling opportunities and the health of rivers and their tributaries along the coast. Visit us at www.tofinofishing.com for updated fishing info and guided Tofino area fishing excursions.
We hope to hear from you in 2009 and get you out on the water.

[Tofinofish]

2009 Sport fishing Outlook
Tofino/Ucluelet-West Coast Vancouver Island


The Pacific Rim region along Vancouver Island’s west coast played host to British Columbia’s most consistent recreational saltwater fisheries throughout 2007 and 2008. Local anglers are excited to hear that based on recent DFO reports, the 2009 season is forecasted to follow suit once again. The consistency of fishing in this area is largely due to the fact that the offshore waters of the Pacific Rim region are a primary rearing area and migratory route for numerous stocks of salmon, primarily Chinook and Coho. With a unique ocean habitat here, as well as prolific baitfish stocks, there are fish in these waters all year long. Though the Pacific Rim area has a long history of fantastic Sports Fishing opportunities, the local fisheries have evolved over time, continuing to provide World class angling.
In years past, the salmon fishery was focused closer to the coastline, and often by late summer, the majority of anglers would fish for the largest Chinook and Coho of the season within the protected inshore waters of Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds. The late season terminal area fishery in these areas has become much more regulated over the past 9 years, with the majority of the recreational fleet now fishing the offshore waters for Chinook salmon stocks destined for the lower Fraser River, the Columbia River and enhanced stocks from Washington state. The shift of focus to the offshore waters has also exposed many to new methods of fishing as well as alternate species like Halibut and Ling Cod.
The increased recreational Halibut catch along the B.C. coast is being closely monitored, as the total allowable Canadian catch (TAC) has decreased in recent years. The question in the catch numbers has nothing to do with concerns for conservation, as the biomass of Pacific Halibut is strong. The challenge remains within the allocation process established by the DFO, where the recreational sector has been falsely guaranteed stability and growth without a true mechanism to facilitate the process. Discussions are ongoing with DFO to rectify the skewed allocation process, meanwhile, the average size of Halibut along the WCVI is said to be on the increase based on researched natural cycles. –Update- The new TAC for area 2B (B.C. coastline) is now set at 7,630,000 lbs and 2009 recreational fisheries regulations are set at 1 Halibut per day with 2 in possession. B.C. recreational Halibut fishing is to be monitored as the season progresses, and if the recreational Halibut catch numbers look to stay within the 918,000 lb catch ceiling, DFO will then consider increasing the limit to 2 per day. The Tofino and Ucluelet area Halibut fishing action is a very reliable option for anglers who are focused on these large Flounders, with the average 15-30 lb size making the best table fare while providing ample sport.
Regardless of how some media outlets continue to put a negative spin on the status of Salmon stocks along the B.C. coast, there are reasons for optimism;
The State of the Oceans report shows cooler ocean trends that are favorable to outgoing salmon smolts in the spring, enhancing the start of their ocean survival regime with an important high protein Northern Copepod diet. This positive scenario took place last spring, and is forecasted to repeat in following years, which will likely support the ocean survival rate of multiple age classes of B.C. salmon.
Similar cool water conditions and subsequent food source of the North Pacific likely contributed to the health of the runs in 2007, which was the largest catch of North Pacific Salmon ever, at 1.04 million metric tons.
In summary, the 2009 Salmon fisheries look to be even better than in 2008 along Vancouver Island’s west coast. Chinook numbers will be slightly better, with the main factor of improvement anticipated in the 4 year old age class which makes up approximately 60 % of the fishery, which was a main component missing from the 2008 returns. A recent increase to the Columbia River Chinook Salmon forecast to over 500 Thousand returning fish, will no doubt be a welcome addition to the strengthening fishing opportunities in the Tofino and Ucluelet B.C. areas.
Chinook regulations are anticipated to be similar to 2008, with continued efforts to conserve terminal area Chinook destined to the smaller wild systems along the coast. Terminal area Chinook Salmon conservation has been in place for 2 full life cycles of Chinook in Tofino/Clayoquot Sound, with little change in escapement numbers. Many believe it is time for DFO to stop turning a blind eye to all other possible factors of decline, while supporting existing runs with necessary enhancement, as the habitat exists to support Salmon survival and rebuilding.
Tofino area Coho Salmon numbers are anticipated to experience a fair increase again in 2009, following a pretty solid return last season with remarkably large fish on average. The biggest news comes from south of the border, where the Columbia River Coho salmon forecasted return has been upgraded to 1.3 Million, which rivals peak numbers from the early 90’s. The strength of Columbia river Coho run is a very strong component in supporting Tofino and Ucluelet area sport fishing opportunities, most specifically the inshore action for Fly and light tackle anglers. Very strong numbers of Coho grilse were present along the West Coast of Vancouver Island late last season, which is a great indicator for future stocks, as well as the state of the ocean off the west coast of the island. The 2008 season provided a consistent fishery for good numbers of strong and healthy Coho in Clayoquot Sound, which provided a liberal retention of 2 Coho per person daily. The offshore waters from Tofino and Ucluelet saw waves of Coho Salmon passing through from early July onwards, with retention limited to hatchery fin clipped Coho only. As the season progressed, numerous Coho Salmon over 20 lbs were released unharmed by the Clayoquot Ventures guide team, making for better Photos and Memories than table fare. We are very excited about the Coho Salmon fishing opportunities along the West Coast of Vancouver Island in 2009.

Sockeye Salmon returns to Barkley sound are forecasted to improve in 2009, with recreational fisheries anticipated. The 2008 Sockeye Salmon returns did not allow a recreational fishery in this area, so local anglers are happy to hear of the stronger forecast.
To add to the mix of great opportunities along WCVI waters this year, the return of forecasted Fraser River Pink Salmon is considered to arrive approximately 2 million fish over the historic average, with likely numbers in around 14 million salmon. This season should be a prime opportunity to help expose someone new to recreational fishing in the saltwater, especially our younger generation that is seeing too many video screens and not enough outdoor activities. Lighten up the tackle and help create some lasting memories and new healthy addictions.
Visit us at www.tofinofishing.com for updated fishing info and guided Tofino area fishing excursions.
We hope to hear from you in 2009 and get you out on the water.

[administrator]

Chasen Fish Charters Winter Newsletter


In this newsletter you will find: - Last years report

- Predictions for this year

- Rates for 2009

- New Boat

- Web Site

- Booking in 2009

- Transport Canada Safety Standards



Last year, the fishing was down a little at Port Hope, the same as other places on Lake Ontario. My average catch was down about 1 ½ fish per trip. The Salmon were the fish that seemed to come and go all summer. Rainbows were fairly steady and we had a good catch of Brown Trout. The Salmon were larger and all caught on a fly behind a Pro-Troll flasher with the EChip.We had 5 over 28 LB. and a picture of the largest 28.82 LB. is on my Photo Gallery Page. http://www.chasenfish.com/pages/gallery2008.htm



I am predicting the Salmon fishing this year will be like the years before and lots of Rainbows available. Will be starting earlier this year in Port Hope to take advantage of the mid June fishing. Over the last few years some of our best fishing has been in June and the first part of July.



Rates this year will stay the same as last year. To check them out go to my Rates Page. Also there check out the Great Ontario Salmon Derby. As of right now you will be entered in the derby with your charter fee. http://www.chasenfish.com/pages/rates.htm



Purchased a new 2009 18 foot Alaskan by Lund with a 60 HP. 4 stroke Mercury. This boat will be used on the St. Lawrence River so we can fish places the big boat was too large for. There is a picture of it on the Fishing Reports Page for Sept. 2008.



The web site is being updated when info becomes available, so check back regularly. Also, the Fishing Reports page I will try and keep updated weekly when I start fishing along with a picture. http://www.chasenfish.com/pages/reports.htm



Have been receiving inquires for charters already, but remember if you had a charter last year on a weekend you get first chance this year for that date. Phone early to reserve your date.



Transport Canada still requires all charter boats to meet certain safety standards and be inspected when possible. This is for your protection on the water. I have been inspected and have a certificate on my boat to show it has been done. Copy of it on the Charter Info page. http://www.chasenfish.com/pages/charter_info.htm . If you plan on taking a charter remember to ask if he has been inspected and ask to see his decal to prove it.



James Dexter
Chasen Fish Charters
184 Ferguson Drive
Brockville , On.
K6V 4R6
613-342-3102
www.chasenfish.com
Captain@chasenfish.com