Fishing Report Archives

Tofino, BC Fishing Report: July 2000

After three months of productive offshore fishing from Tofino and Ucluelet B.C., the near-shore and inside areas of Clayoquot Sound are now the main focal spots for productive fishing for Chinook and Coho salmon. As the schools of bait fish increase in these areas, the transient runs of salmon , as well as some schools of early local fish are temped to feed for numerous tides. With the abundance of Needlefish in the area this year, we can expect that our outer coast islands and the shallow, protected waterways of Clayoquot Sound will attract many Salmon to stay in the area for extended periods of time.

This is especially good news for the light tackle anglers and smaller boats that are unable to participate in the early season offshore fishery. Quite possibly, the fishermen that anticipate this time of the year the most are the increasing numbers that target these shallow water salmon with a cast fly or buck-tail. The Clayoquot Sound area makes up the perfect setting to target salmon and numerous species of bottom-fish with a fly rod and reel.

A wide variety of patterns will entice these mid-season fish to bite, with the most success on baitfish imitations in different shades of green, pink and white or flies tied with some of the newer glow materials that are available at most fly shops. If you are trying to catch Coho salmon in the Tofino area with a Buck-tail on the surface, try cutting your lead hook off at the shank, leaving only the small trailer hook near the tail end of the fly.

Your buck-tail will track much better in the water, looking more lifelike, producing more strikes. Remember that it is manditory to pinch all your barbs down when fishing for salmon.

Don’t think that July is only a light tackle show in the Tofino B.C. area, this is the time of the year when many line busting Chinook Salmon in the 30-40 lb range cruise the outer islands and reefs, waiting to slam your well presented Anchovie, Herring or a variety of spoons and hoochies.

The Halibut action offshore is still great with many fish in the 20-60 lb. range. During this time, you should start fishing more Pipe Jigs as opposed to still fishing bait due to the Dogfish becoming more active and being a real nuisance.

For those interested in freshwater fishing, you should know that Tofino has some very unique trout fishing opportunities on one of the many fly-in lakes in the area. We will do a total package for you with flight from Tofino, pontoon boats, lunch and all gear provided.

Only those people that are interested in great fishing with total serenity need inquire. These remote lakes will produce good fishing through late October with optional overnight packages available. If you are thinking that Tofino or Ucluelet B.C. may be your next destination for a fishing adventure, don’t hesitate to give us a call toll free @1-888-534-7422 and we’ll try and help you arrange the best time possible.