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: