Banner Sport Fishing continues despite Recreational Halibut Fish
Capt. Adam Watson
September 8, 2011
Clayoquot Sound - Saltwater Fishing Report
With Recreational Halibut Fishing on the B.C. Coast now closed earlier than ever, we are fortunate to still be seeing peak season numbers of Chinook and Coho Salmon in the Tofino area. The forecasted numbers of Salmon feeding and traveling past Tofino's outer coastline have met or exceeded predictions for most of the season, with many anglers considering the Saltwater Sport fishing action near Tofino possibly hitting an all time high. We thought the overall numbers and consistent action last year might set the threshold as "best overall", but I suppose this can be chalked up to another fun lesson learned!
With an absolutely amazing Chinook Salmon Fishery that continually strengthened as the season progressed, and inshore action for big Coho Salmon busting through Kelp beds and bait schools to hit flies and light tackle like freight trains, the action has been very memorable to say the least! Hearing stories of 30-40 salmon caught and released in a morning of fishing is outstanding, and even better when the weather is calm like a lake and sunscreen and sunglasses are almost as mandatory as your personal fishing license.
In the Tofino area, we often find the crazy Salmon action from August rolls right through most of September, providing great weather, great fishing and great value with shoulder season rates often kicking in to effect by mid month for many local businesses. The offshore waters continue to provide a Chinook fishery that provides multiple encounters of these "King of Salmon", many of "Tyee" proportion. Mix that in with 10 to 20 Coho Salmon during the same fishing trip and you end up staying very busy with a bent fishing rod in hand. Without a doubt, September is the prime month for the season's largest Coho Salmon and is a favoured Saltwater fishery that many anticipate all year. The largest Coho, also known as "Northerns" are distinguishable by their large hooked nose or "Kype" that develops with maturity. Pound for pound, these prize fighting salmon are considered the strongest and best sport for anglers along the B.C coast. Don't rule out the month of October as well for these amazingly powerful Coho that can reach and even exceed 20 lbs, with many in the 12-16 lb class.
For late season Bottom fishing opportunities, September is also a very popular time for local anglers and guides who travel to outer coastline and offshore reefs in search of various types of bottom dwellers that include Ling Cod, numerous Rockfish species and Cabazon. Halibut are normally very prolific in these same areas as well, but the recent decision by DFO to restrict any further Halibut retention creates a total catch and release scenario for this popular and abundant species. Halibut numbers and average sizes have been outstanding this year compared to recent years. The very poor management actions and related decision to close this fishery by the Department of Fisheries , is not very well received or supported by recreational anglers as well as the general public, once they learn more about this issue. Hopefully a better management plan will be in place for 2012.
While many B.C. coastal fishing destinations and lodges have "wrapped up" for another season, Tofino Fishing opportunities will continue to provide some of the most reliable and exciting fishing action available anywhere on the B.C. coast. Contact Clayoquot Ventures Tofino Fishing to help with the right information and guided options for your next memorable late season fishing experience.
Contact us at 1-888-534-7422 or hook up online at www.tofinofishing.com
Clayoquot Sound Fishing Forecast:
Good to excellent through the month of September for most saltwater species
Target Species:
Chinook Salmon Coho Salmon abd various bottom fish
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