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.

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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