Vancouver Island Fishing Report Archives

Tofino B.C. Vancouver Island Steelhead and Salmon Report  May 2003

   The month of May in the Tofino and Ucluelet B.C. areas, provides some of the most diverse fishing opportunities of the year. Chinook Salmon, Halibut, Steelhead and Trout all provide prime opportunities for angling success, catering to both Freshwater and Saltwater enthusiasts.

 With an early commitment of “ Status Quo of 2002” from Federal Fisheries, with potential for even more liberal restrictions, local Chinook and Coho stocks should be more accessible than the past two seasons. Watch for announcements or consult with local fisheries representatives.

 With great numbers of Chinook Salmon currently feeding in Tofino B.C. area waters, it is exciting to think that this kind of fantastic Chinook fishing is anticipated to continue through late August, only to compliment the returning stocks of Coho that help solidify the backbone of our World Class saltwater sport fishery.

 Watch for these early season brutes to range in size from 18-35 lbs, with good opportunity to hook fish 40 lbs. and over. Concentrate fishing efforts in the offshore waters from Tofino’s Portland or Raphael Pts with your gear from the bottom up to 110 feet. Anchovies rigged in clear, chartreuse or Army Truck teasers, 6-8 feet behind your favorite Gibbs, Hot Spot or Oki flasher is undoubtedly a must have piece of gear. Consider trying the new “fish scale” patterned teaser heads from Rhys Davis. These aggressive fish are notorious for slamming large spoons and plugs. The Gibbs #5 Wonder Spoon has been a proven producer for longer than I have been fishing.

 After an excellent start to the Halibut season, May is often when this fishery really heats up. Anticipate your efforts to be rewarded with Halibut ranging from 20-60 lbs.

 Fishing with Lead Minnow and Pipe style Jigs on the bottom are quite effective, but the method of choice would be to fish baits like Herring, Pilchards, Octopus or Salmon Bellies on a Gibbs spreader bar. The use of scents on your jigs or hoochy skirts is something worth trying.

 Abundant numbers of juvenile Coho Salmon have started the local saltwater fly fishery early this year, with the sizes of these feisty salmon increasing rapidly over the next few months. Small flies in orange or pink are the best bet. Check in at our Fly & Tackle shop for updated information.

 Numerous late spring Steelhead have been providing great action on Flies, Marabou Jigs, and light spinning gear. Steelies Nightmare, Clayoquot Prawns and Bunny Leeches have been popular on the Steelhead hit list. Gibbs Koho spoons are a great springtime lure for both Steelhead and Cutthroat.

 With some of the best sport fishing opportunities in many years, come and see for yourself why Tofino is one of the most focal destinations in British Columbia.

Jay-  www.tofinofishing.com  1-888-534-7422

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