The last week has been very mixed for salmon fishing on the East side of Vancouver Island. I've had a bunch of great reports and also some not so great ones. The biggest complaint is too many small salmon. While this is a good sign for next year, we don't want to waste our releasing shakers. I think the main problem is guys fishing like it's early summer. That is out off shore in deep water. Now is the time to be fishing closer to structure and right on the bottom in relatively shallow water. The mature fish are now in a holding pattern waiting for rain. The little feeders are our farther away looking for bait.
At this time of year I like to run 5-6" UV blue or purple Tomic plugs and 5" Night Magic Loony Spoons with Pro-Cure herring scent. Or anchovies in purple haze teaser heads right on the bottom in 80-100 feet of water near shore.
On the West side of the Island the big Coho are showing up. I've got several good reports from Port Renfrew and Bamfield. These are always some of the biggest Coho of the year so if you can get over there now is the time. The lures I've heard mentioned are Red Racer Coho Killers behind an Outfitter flasher.
Back in Nanaimo the Pinks are still in Departure bay. Pink fly's under a small float are your best bet. We have a growing selection of fly's now. They are not online yet, but a complete fly fishing section is in the works. Pink spinners like Gold Hot Pink Mepps Flying C are also taking the Pinks. Cast and slowly retrieve these spinners. And make sure the hook size on you lure conforms to the Departure Bay 15mm regulation.
Tips up Steve@harbourchandler.ca
