Tofino Fishing Report May 2004
by Jay Mohl
With local Saltwater & Freshwater fisheries in full swing, the
angling opportunities in the Tofino area are primed for another great
season. May is undoubtedly one of the finest months in the Clayoquot
region to target some of British Columbia’s finest game fish.
Anglers can anticipate fantastic Chinook salmon and Halibut fishing
in the offshore banks from Tofino, with the abundant bait fish stocks
encouraging these fish to feed in the area for extended periods of
time. Both species can be caught while trolling deep along these underwater
contours, but to ensure the best success for Halibut in the Tofino
area, consider bottom bouncing fresh baits such as Octopus or Herring.
Chinook Salmon prefer Anchovies trolled with a tight roll, as well
as a variety of Spoons. If you encounter schools of Sardines during
this time, look towards the larger variety of spoons like the #6 and
#7 Wonders. With the resurgence of larger bait fish to the area, don’t
hesitate to match your gear size accordingly.
Freshwater options are as good as they get during this time, as most
of the local Steelhead stocks are “spring run” fish, entering
the small to medium rivers and streams of Clayoquot Sound during April
and May. This is also the prime timing for the start of the downstream
salmon fry migration, which attracts hungry Sea-Run Cutthroat to the
lower rivers and estuaries of local watersheds. Freshwater Fly fishermen
enjoy some of the season’s finest river angling during this time,
with common patterns like bunny leaches, shrimp, large stoneflies and
Fry imitations.
The pristine local lakes create another great option during this
time, with most Rainbow and Cutthroat Trout enjoying the warmer waters
that
have instigated the bug life that they have waited for all winter.
Chironomids, Caddis, Leeches and Scuds are all “must have” bugs
for the spring time lake fishery.
Jason Mohl operates
Clayoquot Ventures in Tofino.
Visit his company online at www.tofinofishing.com or get in touch with
him by email at jay@tofinofishing.com
Tofino Fishing articles
Tofino fishing report for May 2004, with outlook and forecasts for the Tofino, Ucluelet and Clayoquot Sound area.