Tofino / Ucluelet Fishing Report:
Tofino Chinook Fishing outlook June thru August
May 30th, 2008
Tofino Chinook Salmon Fishing June 2008
On average, most anglers approach their passion for fishing with a sense of optimism, while he or she pursues that part of the experience
that provides a personal contentment and satisfaction.
For some, the satisfaction is in the catch, where the internal hunter-gatherer instinct to put food on the table is the reward. For others,
the day is a success just to find the right setting to slow down the pace of a normal day to unwind and relax, while for many it is all about
enjoying the sport of fishing with good friends or family.
When you consider some of these main instigators to a “quality” day of fishing, the Tofino area undoubtedly provides a fantastic
venue to satisfy the diverse “angles” to the sport.
For many years, Clayoquot Sound and its surrounding waters have played host to adventurous anglers looking for that perfect spot, and for
close knit groups to gather and share in the moment of their favourite recreation on the water. Many have fished the Tofino area for years,
focusing on the prolific seafood stocks that have provided sustenance from their efforts.
These appealing aspects of Sport Fishing in Tofino can continue for years to come, but to support future opportunities there are necessary
regulations and restrictions to protect and enhance future stocks.
Wild stock Clayoquot Sound Chinook salmon have been on a decline for a number of years, regardless of sport and commercial fishing restrictions
in place to protect the 4 and 5 year old spawning Chinook Salmon that return to local rivers in August and September each year. The number
of recreational boat trips and angler effort has decreased along with the corresponding catch of Chinook salmon inside Tofino’s area
24, but unfortunately the numbers of returning Salmon have not shown an increase. In efforts to help support returning Chinook numbers for
2008, there will be further protective measures that will encompass much of Vancouver Island’s west coast, while still supporting great
fishing opportunities for mixed stock Chinook and Coho salmon.
The one mile “conservation corridor” has been in place along the Island’s west coast for over 7 years now, stretching from
Brooks Peninsula in the north to Amphitrite Pt. in the south. Chinook spawners in the 4-5 year class will be protected in the corridor area
starting August 1st, while 3 year old Chinook salmon under 77cm. will be available for retention in these popular areas. Fishing opportunities
offshore from the corridor boundary are open for full limits of 2 Chinook per day with a minimum size of 45cm. all season. The offshore area
from Tofino is forecasted to provide the season’s best Chinook salmon fishing in September this year, with abundant stocks of large
Harrison and Columbia River Chinook that feed hard while travelling through local waters.
The 2008 sport fishing season started off with spring weather conditions doing a valiant job at imitating winter, playing out right through
mid May. As weather would permit, Halibut fishing was good, but the Chinook migration was still following the winter schedule, making for
slower fishing. The last 2 weeks of May, we have experienced good Chinook salmon fishing that will likely set the pace until September. With
an overall strong mixed stock of Chinook salmon travelling past Tofino waters, anglers can anticipate a season of opportunity that shines
in comparison to the doom and gloom portrayed by some media outlets. Coho Salmon numbers will very likely be similar to last year, which
provided good opportunities for small boat anglers on inside waters, using gear or flies. Fortunately, the offshore Tofino area waters provides
great habitat for strong numbers of Halibut and various Bottom fish species to thrive
Before planning your trip on the water, always check current regulations in place, available on line at the DFO website, as well as current
updates available at www.tofinofishing.com. Jay’s Fly and Tackle in Tofino can also provide you with the right gear and information
you need to know before venturing out for a day on the water. Whether you are fishing for dinner, or searching for the solitude and relaxation,
two aspects to keep in mind; “The best time to fish in Tofino is when it’s Raining, and when it ain’t” and to “Catch
your limit, but limit your catch” helping tomorrows fishing opportunities.
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Clayoquot Ventures