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Fishing
Reports - Pacific Rim: Tofino/Clayoquot
Sound Area
March-April
2001
The
transition months of March and April are always welcomed on
the West Coast of Vancouver Island, as there are numerous reminders
of the wet coastal winter loosening its grasp, promoting more
spring-like conditions and activities.
Many people are preparing their boats and gear for the season
ahead, tuning engines, servicing reels, replacing fly lines
and checking downrigger cable. On the West Coast, we always
stress the importance of safety gear on the springtime checklist,
life jackets, flares, air horn etc.
There are some keen local anglers that have done these preparations
during the quieter winter months, and have been out on the water
enjoying some great early season fishing opportunities. Chinook
Salmon fishing in and around Clayoquot Sound has provided some
great action for this early in the season. The average size
of these local "feeders" has been very impressive with some
fish already reaching the 30 lb. Class. Fisheries biologists
have indicated that due to very good ocean survival conditions,
the size and health of "local" as well as transient Salmon stocks
are looking very good for the 2001 season, with May, June and
July looking exceptional.
A local recipe for early season success has been trolling either
a spoon, plug or bait (med. Herring or Anchovies) close to the
bottom. Both Salmon and Halibut are actively feeding on the
returning schools of Herring at this time, so watch for this
baitfish to increase success. When the weather permits you to
venture to the outer coastal waters, opportunities increase
for larger Salmon as well as Halibut in various sizes. Baits
such as Fresh Herring, Octopus or Salmon-bellies will entice
these powerful "Flatties" to play tug-o-war.
A unique fishery enjoyed by few is targeting the Sea-Run Cutthroat
Trout cruising the local beaches in search of small minnows
and shrimp. Catching these ocean trout on light fly or spinning
rods is worth the effort. Small spoons or spinners, and flies
like the Mickey Finn, Gold Rolled Muddler, Crystal Shrimp and
various fry patterns all work well.
Most of our local streams are in the peak of their Spring Steelhead
runs through March and April. These small to medium sized Native
Steelhead are willing to take your properly presented drift
gear, spoons or wet flies such as the General Practitioner in
black or orange, large marabou or rabbit strip flies in bright
colours, along with large weighted versions of the Puntledge
Worm. Remember to play and release these native gems as quickly
and carefully as possible.
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.
For further
questions or information, see us online at www.clayoquotventures.com,
call toll free 1-888-534-7422,
or e-mail jay@steelheadsalmonhalibut.com.
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