Tourism Tofino Press Release
West Coast Vancouver Island Destination's Nutrient-Rich Waters Boost Salmon Stocks
Chinook salmon like this 32 pounder lure anglers to the coastal waters of Tofino, British Columbia, Canada. Photo: J. Mohl
TOFINO, BC--(Marketwire - July 9, 2009) - Tofino, the Vancouver Island destination known for its uncrowded beaches, variety of accommodations, restaurants and activities, is experiencing the best sport fishing season in ten years, according to Tourism Tofino, the area's destination marketing organization.
"So far the 2009 season has been excellent for Chinook and Coho salmon -- the two main sport fishing species in our area," said Jay Mohl, owner of Tofino's Clayoquot Ventures (www.tofinofishing.com), a guide service specializing in sport fishing experiences that promote sustainable fisheries. "We expect to see significantly more wild salmon in the area than we have in almost a decade. Approximately two million Coho, up to one million Chinook and more than fifteen million Pink salmon will pass by Tofino waters this season."
The current increase in salmon stocks feeding in the Tofino area is due in part to higher levels of protein-rich northern Copepod (plankton), a significant local marine food source that has been depleted in the warmer waters caused in recent years by the ocean-atmosphere phenomenon commonly referred to as the El Nino effect. Cooler springtime waters have boosted plankton levels, providing ample nourishment for juvenile salmon and improving ocean survival rates.
Along with the millions of salmon migrating past Tofino to spawn, the area is a prime wintering area for many Chinook stocks in the second and third years of their life cycle. Cooler water temperatures have also had a positive effect on mature salmon food sources such as needlefish, herring and squid, supporting the Tofino area's sustainable year-round fisheries. In addition to salmon sport fishing, anglers from around the world come to Tofino to fish for halibut, ling cod, rock fish and a variety of freshwater species, including native Steelhead and trout.
About the Tofino 2009 Sport Fishing Season
With sustainable year-round sport fishing, Tofino welcomes sport anglers from around the world to its celebrated coastline and the pristine, protected waters of Clayoquot Sound. Wild salmon inhabit the area all year with prime Chinook salmon (also known as King or Tyee) fishing occurring from April-September. Coho salmon stocks are prevalent from June-October, and Pink and Sockeye salmon are often available from mid July-August. Halibut fishing is year round except for January. A valid Fisheries and Oceans Canada Tidal Fishing License is required. www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
About Tofino
Tofino is a premier, year-round travel destination on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. Bounded by the open Pacific Ocean, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Tofino is known for its miles of pristine beaches and unparalleled adventures, including whale and wildlife watching, saltwater and freshwater fishing, surfing, kayaking, boating, hiking, and winter storm watching. www.tourismtofino.com
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Clayoquot Ventures