Vancouver Island Fishing Outlook 2008
Following a season that dubbed Vancouver Island’s Tofino and Ucluelet areas likely the most consistent sport fisheries on
the B.C. coast, 2008 fishing opportunities might have a hard act to follow.
For fishing near Tofino and Ucluelet B.C., the 2007 season was not unlike being at an action packed NHL playoff game with a line-up
of star players that you anticipate seeing all winter, and the “game” unfolds to be as exhilarating as you anticipated. The
experience finds you not only satisfied with the time you have committed, but feeds your passion and heightens your interest for the next
time you are in the front row seat.
A combination of factors have been building up against the 2008 season’s line-up of Salmon stocks, with fair to poor early
stages of marine survival likely creating the biggest challenge. Predation, along with unpredictable water currents and temperatures that
effect “normal” food sources during the early stages of local Salmonid life cycle have not been overly favourable. Due to
these various challenges effecting various salmon stocks coast wide, we can anticipate a more conservative approach by DFO for some areas
of the coast, in an attempt to protect stocks of concern. The West Coast of Vancouver Island will likely see some of coastal British Columbia’s
finest action for Coho Salmon this season, which is great news for our area, often considered a premier locale for Coho Salmon action
and habitat.
The Pacific Halibut Commission is recommending a reduction in the total allowable catch for the B.C. coast spread between all
sectors, and are in discussion with DFO on how to achieve this goal. At the time of writing, the main proposal from the Sport Fishing
Institute of B.C. to DFO in attempts to meet the temporary reduction; Reduce the possession limit from 3 Halibut to 2 Halibut per person,
continuing with 2 Halibut per day, and no changes to size limits. Keep in mind that this potential temporary reduction is not based on
conservation concerns, but is due to the allocation process of Halibut catch within different sectors on the B.C. coast.
Through the Sport Fish Advisory process with DFO, recreational angling opportunities will be protected and provided following
necessary conservation, likely being announced by mid spring in 2008.
Though returning numbers have fluctuated recently, run timing for most local Salmon stocks has been quite consistent the last
couple years, so this part of your planning should not be in question. Early spring offshore action for Chinook salmon and Halibut is
normally a standby, with late spring and early summer seeing more inshore action for Chinook and Coho. The peak months of July, August
and early September should again provide the best fishing inshore and offshore for Chinook and Coho, with Halibut and Bottom fish being
a great option.
The 2008 season will likely see some of the most reliable fishing opportunities supported by enhanced Salmon stocks such as Robertson
Creek Chinook and Coho, as opposed to smaller wild stock systems of Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds. Fortunately the work done over the years
by hatcheries has helped provide a variety of fishing opportunities, in both approach and terminal areas. This is proof once again that
Salmon Enhancement cutbacks are not only a very poor decision, but detrimental to years of past enhancement work that requires continual “maintenance” to
be successful.
Anglers needing moorage while fishing the Tofino area might want to check out the 4 th street harbour upgrades, with a new office
building complete with two new washrooms, showers and laundry. Plans for expanded parking for vehicles and boat trailers are also in the
works for 2008. Make sure to check with local regulations, as well as in-season variation orders for the area you plan to fish. This can
be done by visiting the local DFO office, tackle shops or postings at launches and docks.
Remember, if you have a chance to volunteer personal time, or contribute financially to local Salmon Enhancement programs, pleased
do your part. Community based enhancement programs and related support are a big part of the future, so get involved where you can to
help keep the “game on” for future angling opportunities.
Jay Mohl
Clayoquot Ventures
www.tofinofishing.com
1-888-534-7422
Clayoquot Ventures