 Most often considered the prime time of the year for Salmon fishing in the Tofino B.C. area, on Vancouver Island’s beautiful and rugged west coast, this August is shaping up to fulfilled everyone’s expectations. A considerable hype to this August’s fishing outlook is the pending return of numerous large 4-5 year class Chinook salmon to Vancouver Island’s main Hatchery river systems, which consistently supports our fisheries along the West Coast of Vancouver Island.
With great fishing opportunities in most of the traditional areas along Tofino B.C.’s coastline for these maturing Chinook Salmon and feisty Coho Salmon, all indications are pointing to one of the better August fisheries in many years. The offshore banks from Tofino that provide fantastic Salmon and Halibut fishing during the early season have become very popular for the August fishery as well. Huge masses of Sardines and Needlefish have helped slow these maturing fish for extended periods, helping create a phenomenal fishery for the season’s largest Salmon.
For fishing the outer coastline areas, as well as the offshore banks during this time of the year, be prepared with large baits, spoons and trolling plugs to resemble the size of the baitfish that the Salmon are actively feeding on. Anchovies will often work as well, but this time of the year supports the old adage “Big bait big fish”.
Coho Salmon fishing among the many islands and reefs of inner Clayoquot Sound is once again providing a dynamic fishery for many different angling interests. World Class light tackle fishing opportunities within a safe and fuel efficient distance from the protected Tofino harbour has become increasingly appealing to many over the last few years. Gear options vary between flashers and small spoons to light jigs. Fly fishermen have enjoyed great Coho fishing since early June, with a surprising number of Chinook salmon hooked on the fly as well.
Flies to strongly consider are the chartreuse Clayoquot Clouser, Pink, Chartreuse or Orange rubber leg Streamers, as well as tandem hook Bucktails in orange or pink fished in the prop wash. This fantastic inshore fishery will stay strong until mid October for gear and fly anglers alike.
Don’t disregard the great bottom fishing opportunities that prevail offshore. Halibut, Ling Cod and various other bottom fish provide great action through the late fall. The offshore reefs and outer bank contours provide great habitat and food sources for these varied bottom-fish that range in size, color and species.
Consider these great fishing options when planning your next excursion to the west coast of Canada, or see us online at www.tofinofishing.com to view other fantastic opportunities that are available yet for the 2007 season. |
