Tofino Fishing Report for August 2007

by Jay Mohl, Tofino

Most often considered the prime time of the year for Salmon fishing in the Tofino area, this August is shaping up to fulfill 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 the area's main Hatchery system, which has consistently supported our August fisheries along the west coast of Vancouver Island.

With great fishing opportunities in most of the traditional areas along Tofino's coastline for these maturing Chinook 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, Herring 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 coastline areas, as well as the offshore banks during this time of the year, be prepared with large baits, spoons and 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 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 Tofino harbour has become increasingly appealing to many over the last few years, luring many anglers with their own vessels as small as a 14ft car topper. Gear options vary between flashers and small spoons to light jigs. Fly fishermen have enjoyed great Coho fishing since early June in the 7-12 lb range, 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 Chartreuse, Olive and Purple 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.

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Jay Mohl operates Clayoquot Ventures in Tofino, a sportsfishing guide company. Visit his website for more info: www.tofinofishing.com