Tofino / Ucluelet Fishing Report: March 2000
Around the Tofino and Ucluelet B.C. areas, both the weather, and
fishing conditions are showing strong indications that we have almost
escaped the grasp of West Coast winter, evolving into more promosive
and productive springtime conditions. There are numerous reminders
in the area of this changing season. Along with the return of the
Grey Whales from their wintering grounds down south, come the masses
of tourists that enjoy watching these spectacular ocean mammals.
Many people are preparing their boats and gear for the season ahead,
tuning engines, servicing reels, replacing fly lines and checking
downrigger cable. We always stress the importance of safety gear
on the springtime check list, life-jackets, flares, air horn etc.
Some fishermen have done their preparations long ago, enabling them
to enjoy some good early season action.
The Salmon fishing in the area has been good with numerous small
fish in the inside inlets. Larger Chinook have been caught along
the outer coastline and in the offshore areas of Portland and Rafael
Pts.If the weather is too nasty to venture offshore, try trolling
the waters around Wilf Rock or Blunden Island, using Anchovies,
Plugs or Spoons.
Early season Halibut can be found offshore and occasionally in
Sydney Inlet, using Herring for bait. Both the Salmon and Halibut
are actively feeding on the returning schools of Herring at this
time, so watch for this baitfish to increase success.
For the avid freshwater fishermen that explore the more remote
rivers of the Sound, Native Steelhead have been caught and released
with more regularity lately, compared to the past month which produced
very low and cold water conditions.
The peak of this unique Steelhead fishery is yet to come, with
early to mid. April generally the best for run timing and water
conditions. These small to medium sized Wild Steelhead are willing
to take your properly presented drift gear, spoons or wet flies
like the black or orange General Practitioner, large marabou or
rabbit flies in bright colors, along with large weighted versions
of the Puntledge Worm. Remember to play and release these native
Gems as quickly and carefully as possible.
A unique fishery enjoyed by few is targeting the Sea-run Cutthroat
trout cruising local beaches in search of small minnows and shrimp.
Catching these ocean trout on light fly or spinning rods is worth
the effort, especially for those that know one of the numerous local
spots that can provide non-stop action for these feisty Yellowbellies.
If you think that fishing on the west Coast of Vancouver Island
is only for the warmer months of summer, you are missing out on
some great fishing without the crowds.
Any further questions on fishing or charters in our pristine area,
you can contact me at 1-888-5-FISHBC or e-mail jay@steelheadsalmonhalibut.com.
Check out our web site at www.steelheadsalmonhalibut.com For current
fishing reports or info on bookings and accommodation packages:
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