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Skeena River - March 4th, 2010
supplied by: Noel Gyger Guided Fishing Adventures RECORDED:40 °FISHING: Good
The photo of the week shows Dan Berg and his dad Norris with a nice Kalum River Chinook (King) Salmon landed a couple of years ago in the spring. The fish was quickly released after this photo was taken. This photo reminds us these beautiful fish will be coming soon. Have you booked your trip yet? The Kalum River is unique to have such an early run. Chinook and Steelhead caught on the same day is not uncommon.
Noel Gyger - WEEKLY FISHING REPORTS for Smithers, Terrace, Kitimat and Prince Rupert
February 21 to February 28, 2010
Number 162
Dear Fishing Friends:
SUMMARY: Weather is good but with scattered showers. Temperatures have been a little above average. More anglers are fishing for Cutthroat Trout, Dolly Varden Char and Steelhead using both fly, spin and conventional gear. The water is extremely low. The fish are spooked so a stealthy approach is needed to catch them. Using smaller terminal tackle is a good idea also. The lower end of the Zymoetz (Copper) River is fishing good for Steelhead and Trout. The Kalum River is fishing fair for Steelhead but you have to work hard to find them. Trout fishing is slow. It is mostly walk and wade as the water is too low for a jet boat. The Kitimat River is in good shape and fishing fair for Cutthroat Trout. The odd Steelhead is being caught also. Check out the Ron Wakita report below. Winter Chinook fishing in the Kitimat Harbour and Douglas Channel is poor right now and is weather dependent. Winter ocean Chinook fishing in Prince Rupert is good when the weather is good. Check out the Jeff Carlson report below. Lake ice fishing is slowing down in the Smithers area due to the warmer weather. Check out the Cory Koenig report below. Jason Munday in Terrace reports a few Steelhead landed on the Kalum River. Check out his report below. The main stem Skeena River is getting some action for Steelhead. There is a possibility to hook a Chinook also. I tried a little Trout fishing myself. Check out the video clip below. The fishing guides are preparing to start their season on March 15 on the Kalum River. Guiding is allowed on the Kalum River from March 15 to October 15.
February 25, 2010 One "New" clip posted on Video Clips:
Dustin Kovacvich, head guide for Nicholas Dean Lodge and I went fly fishing for Trout on a small Skeena River tributary on Wednesday, February 24, 2010. Dustin caught a Bull Trout on his first cast...no kidding. We hooked a half dozen fish in less than three hours. If you want to learn "how-to" catch Trout (Bull Trout, Dolly Varden Char, Cutthroat and Rainbow) on a 5/6 weight fly rod you need to watch this video. Click here for a direct link to the video It is also listed on the Video webpage. Title: Bull and Cutthroat Trout and listed in category Tips and Techniques. Clip #0079. Plays for 9:07 minutes.
Have “YOU” entered the following draw yet? Thank you to those who have...
Cast on link to view full size http://www.noelgyger.ca/articles/win-a-FREE-driftboat-fishing-trip.doc?
With the participation of some of the Best Dealers (Tackle Shops) in the Northwest I have distributed DVD players and Video clips featuring the Best Fishing in the Northwest highlighting several of the Best Guides and Charters in the Northwest using a variety of the Best Fishing Products on the Market today. The dealers that have the DVD players are: Home Hardware in Kitimat, J&E Tackle and Hunting Shop in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace. Please visit these shops to watch the shows.
NOW BOOKING for 2010: Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the "best" fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one. I will promptly answer your questions and concerns. Cast here http://noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm to read more of what I have to offer.
*** Don’t miss the opportunity to be guided for Steelhead on the Kalum River the last two weeks in March 2010. Season opener begins March 15th. Please contact me for details... Limited spots available...
Many people book three trips per year to our area; one trip in the spring (March-April-May), one trip in the summer (June-July-August) and one trip in the fall (September-October-November). They love having the same guide but fishing for different fish in different areas.
Be sure to check out my website at www.noelgyger.ca for news bulletins, mid week fishing updates, conservation, my history, quality waters strategy, special guided fishing trips, video clips, podcasts, scenic river photos, wildlife photos and others, comments from past guests, informational articles, archived fishing reports from 1996 through 2002 and a sportfishing market place. I hope it meets with your entire satisfaction. I am at your service.
FISHING GUIDE REPORTS FOR THIS WEEK ARE FROM:
Ron Wakita, Glen Kilcup, Ariel Kuppers, Dustin Kovacvich and Jeff Carlson
CURRENT REPORT and summary for Skeena and Tributaries:
TYPE OF FISH CAUGHT: Steelhead, Trout and Dolly Varden Char for river. Salmon, Halibut, Bottom Fish and Dungeness Crab for ocean.
Thank you for using barbless hooks! (This is a BC fishing regulation)
FISHING THIS WEEK: GOOD
WEATHER: Cloudy. A few flurries beginning early this morning changing to periods of rain this morning. High 6. Sunrise 7:26 AM Sunset 6:07 PM. Today’s yearly average temperatures: Maximum 5 degrees. Minimum - 2 degrees.
WEATHER REPORTS VIA TELEPHONE: Terrace 250-635-4192 Kitimat 250-632-7864 Prince Rupert 250-627-1155 Smithers 250-847-1958.
SKEENA RIVER: More and more anglers are fishing the mainstem Skeena River for Steelhead. Some folks have been having great success. The water has come up a little bit which should move in more Steelhead and Chinook, yes I said Chinook.
KALUM RIVER: Since the weather is good more anglers are heading out to try their luck fishing for Trout and Steelhead. Anglers are reminded of a bait ban January 1 to March 15. Fishing has been reported as fair. The water is very low and the fish are spooked in the shallow sections. Try to fish in the deep cut-banks. Trout fishing has been OK...but has really slowed down...as a result of the bait ban.
ZYMOETZ (COPPER) RIVER: Steelhead fishing is reported as fair. The upper section is closed as of December 31 but the lower section below the first canyon will stay open for the winter Steelheaders to enjoy.
Fishing Report from: Ron Wakita of Reliable Guide and Charters, Kitimat BC
KITIMAT RIVER: Typical for this time of year in the North West we received a mix of weather conditions. We had some rainy days, some sunny clear days and even a little snow but the Trout fishing continues to be good.
Feb 21 Martin Golhke landed a 15lb Steelhead under the Haisla Bridge. Martin was excited describing his first Steelhead of the year. Congratulations Martin!
Feb 23 Ariel Kuppers landed this Kitimat River Dolly Varden on his Fly Rod using a pink worm pattern. Ariel was fishing with his Dragonfly 9` 7 wt Rod and his Dragonfly Expedition 7/8 Fly reel. A 5wt Rod is better suited for Trout but this time of year there is always the potential of hooking a Steelhead. A 7wt would give Ariel a better chance of landing a Steelhead than a 5 wt which is why he used his 7wt rod.
Feb 24 Ariel Kuppers fly fishing the upper Kitimat landed a couple more Dolly Varden on a Fly. It snowed in the morning but Ariel said, "it was really nice and sunny when he was out fishing" It was nice to catch Trout but I think Ariel may also be looking for an early Steelhead on his Fly rod.
SUMMARY: There was a few Steelhead landed and a few lost this week. Trout fishing will continue to be good and we can expect more Steelhead on the Kitimat as we head into March. Steelhead catch numbers on the Kitimat River can be outstanding in peak season. With enhancement of Steelhead by the Kitimat River Hatchery we are fortunate to have one the best Spring Steelhead Fisheries in the area. Stay Tuned!
DOUGLAS CHANNEL: Herring have been reported in the Kitimat Harbour more frequently this week but we still have not received many reports of Winter Chinook being caught.
We should be getting better results but I can only report the fishing as it is, is not how we would like it to be. A couple of boats went down to the outer waters for the weekend looking for some King Crab. Justin Lowes who is one of our Tackle store staff is in this group so I will share his results in this Fishing Report.
Thank You to everyone who has provided info or photos for this Fishing Report.
PS: We are booking for the 2010 Fishing Season. Please contact Noel noel@noelgyger.ca
Fishing Report from: Fishawk Guiding, Kitimat/Terrace BC
Hi Noel, this weekend I took Mike Primeau and Todd Henry out to Prince Rupert, BC on the ocean and despite gale force wind warnings all week, which were false (it had been glass smooth out there for at least 3 days prior to our outing ) we had a great day. We bottom fished a few spots and got into a few quillback rockfish and we all caught a few big sculpins (bullheads)
Our plan for the day was to troll for springs. Mike nailed this nice little Halibut while trolling our spring spot and not too long after, I hit my spring. The day was calm all day which was quite rare for Rupert and fishing was a success. Calcutta reels www.fish.shimano.com and Berkley www.purefishing.com big game were the days choice of tools. Luhr Jensen www.rapala.ca flashers with rolling anchovies worked for the trolling. Jigging heavy buzz bombs caught the rest. Going out again soon...you should jump in sometime Noel! Tight lines Glen Kilcup, Fishawk Guiding
Fishing Report from: Fishing Report from: J & E Tackle Shop, Prince Rupert BC
Hi Noel, I have had a few reports of folks catching some Winter Springs. With the nice weather it has been windy at times. When the weather is not co-operative, the Prawning and Crabbing is a good alternative and is usually very productive this time of the year. Take advantage when the weather is nice and take to the water. Tight Lines and enjoy our North Pacific Playground
To book your charter for Winter Chinook onboard the Trish-Anne please contact Jeff Carlson of BC STYLE Fishing Charters www.bcstylefishingcharters.com
Thanks. Jeff Carlson – owner
Fishing Report from: Fish Tales Tackle Shop, Terrace BC
Hello Noel, well the weeks are passing fast. It will be spring before we know it. This week I have Willie McCleary with another beautiful Steelhead!! Caught on the Kalum. He was using a Sage RPL+ 8110-4 , Islander FR #2 www.islander.com , Scientific Angler WF8 line and Seagar fluorocarbon leader. On the end of that was a Black Wooly Bugger. Awesome Willie! Good job! Thanks to his Trophy XL waterproof fishing jacket www.redlsports.com he was able to stay warm and dry for this great day on the river! Well fishers, get out there fishin and enjoy this awesome weather! Happy Fishing to all from Fish Tales Fly & Tackle Shop!!
Cheers! Jason Munday - manager
Everyone is invited to check out our New! instore flyer http://www.noelgyger.ca/ads/fish-tales-instore-flyer.pdf Out of town orders are always welcome. Come in for a coffee anytime.
Fishing Report from: Cory Koenig of Webflyz, Smithers BC
Cory Koenig is taking custom fly orders for any species now at www.webflyz.com
Highest Quality, Durable, and Competitively Priced Flies for any Species!
Hello Noel, Spring is near, and the Olympics are almost done. GOLD CANADA GOLD!!! In the excitement, I have made some Olympic Medal flies that are sure to catch fish! Using the ever popular BLUE for steelhead, these flies were created!
http://www.webflyz.com/fishing-resources/fly-talk.html is where you can view the GOLD, SILVER, and BRONZE medal flies!
Nothing much to report, except I am sure everyone is tying flies these days for a great anticipated spring steelhead trip very soon!
There is some great opportunities to ice-fish for large char in the Smithers/Houston area though, eating most any baitfish imitations you may have! Check out GUMMY MINNOWS for great success, especially for sea-run trout!
Babine Lake has provided some decent char and rainbow trout ice fishing, although the ice is becoming submerged with water. Many small lakes around Tukkii Lodge and the Nilkitkwa road and the entire Babine Lake road leading up to Babine Lake are filled with an abundance of cutthroat and rainbows. Weather has been very good for ice fishing this past week, but getting anglers out there is a different story. We have an abundance of fishing opportunities in the Bulkley Valley, time to take advantage! Spring is near, and many anglers are very itchy for spring steelhead fishing!
... Need CHAR catching flies? Then look at webflyz.com or give me a call 1-250-877-2021 or, ...if you are in need of lures or anything else for ice-fishing, contact Steve Hidber at Oscar's Source for Sports.
Anticipation is definitely on spring fishing in the Terrace area for steelhead. Many new anglers/customers are asking about this years steelhead fishing in our beautiful province!
Do you need to top up your fly box?!?! Sick of tying flies yourself? Check out Webflyz B.C.! Any flies can be custom made for your specific fishing situation.
Contact Cory at WEBFLYZ B.C. www.webflyz.com for ice-fishing flies and more.
Check newly added fly photos at www.webflyz.com or... if you are planning a trip to hotter destinations like Belize, Mexico, Bahamas, or even the Cayman Islands check out WEBFLYZ B.C.'s website for select boxed flies that are working for many anglers right now!!! Bonefish and Stripers are sought after at the moment! From Steelhead to Stripers, Salmon to Sailfish, this fishing year has already begun in some of the warmer states!
Check your 2009-2011 Freshwater fishing Regulations synopsis for all details concerning B.C. Lakes and upcoming spring/summer steelhead fishing in Region 6.
Good luck everyone. Yours sincerely, Cory Koenig
PRODUCT PROFILE Islander Reels www.islander.com
Manufacture of World-Class and Specialty Fishing Reels
Islander Reels has been manufacturing precision Center Pin, Fly and Mooching reels for over 15 years as a division of The J.S. Foster Corporation of Saanichton, near Victoria, B.C., Canada.
"In order to land the big fish you need a reel that you can depend on, a reel that will hold its own in the face of a challenge. For over 15 years Islander Reels have been put to the test in some of the most extreme sports fishing conditions in the world. In our constant quest for perfection, Islander Reels have evolved into the best reels on the market. From detailed design and ingenious machining to the final finishing touch, Islander Reels have been built to last, built to excel and built to provide you with the fishing experience of a lifetime."
Islander Reels is the Number One choice of Professional Guides in the North West.
Islander Dealers in the Northwest: City Centre Hardware and Sporting Goods in Kitimat, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace
AREA RIVER RECORDS: Chinook Salmon: Skeena River, 92.5-pounds; Kalum River, 85-pounds; Kitimat River, 74-pounds; Steelhead: Skeena River, 45-pounds; Coho Salmon: Skeena River, 27-pounds.
FISHING REGULATIONS WEBSITES:
2009-2011 BC tidal waters and non-tidal (Federal) Salmon fishing information:
Effective April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011 (Note: regs good for two years)
GUEST FISHING PHOTOS:
*** If any of you have special fishing photos, testimonials, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them.
Catch & Release formula:
- Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches)
- Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches
Fiberglass fish reproductions
This 42 x 23.5 inch Steelhead was estimated to weigh 30-pounds. There are many sizes and positions available, and pretty much any species. Call Carey Braun anytime at 250-639-3769 and he will be happy to build one for you. Yes, that’s Carey in the photo. Place your order NOW
WIN a FREE one day DRIFT BOAT FISHING TRIP down the Kitimat River for three people by signing-up your friends, family and fishing partners for my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT. This trip is supplied by Reliable Guide and Charters and is for the 2010 season. The LUCKY WINNER will be drawn on April 30, 2010. Cast to this link to open a form showing how to enter names. Send the completed form via e-mail or postal mail. When I receive it I will reply confirming your name is entered into the draw - GOOD LUCK
To receive my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT and PHOTO via e-mail please send your name and e-mail address to: Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING!
Yours sincerely,
Noel F. Gyger
Guided Fishing Adventures and Weekly Fishing Report
Fraser River - January 7th, 2009
supplied by: STS Guiding Service RECORDED:0 °FISHING: Fairmaps Fraser Valley report for the week of Jan 7, 2009 Our spring seminars are now posted on our website. This year we are offering Jet Boat Clinics, 3 - day fly casting seminars, sturgeon seminars and our popular steelhead seminar. You can book on line or call us for Gift Certificates. These seminars are excellent for the novice to advanced and make great Christmas Gifts. Sturgeon seminarSteelhead seminar3 - day Fly castingJet Boat SeminarFree Steelhead Literature
We still have a few copies of our steelhead handout, if you would like a copy please e-mail us your mailing address and we will be happy to send you a copy. Win a Free STS Hoodie
Winner of the draw was Mark Higgins of Washington State, Congratulation Mark.We will be doing one more draw for an STS Camo Hoodie on Jan 31, just send us an e-mail and we will enter you in the draw. All names from previous draw will stay in for the next draw.Fraser Valley ReportFraser River Most of the ice flows are now melted but beware of hidden ice chunks near the shoreline and back channels. Weather patterns are on the warming side so we should have clear access to the Fraser over the next few days. Mission Boat launch should be clear by end of this week. Water levels will begin to rise as most tributary rivers are expected to rise in the next day or two. Sturgeonhttp://www.guidebc.com/images/11ftsturgeon_102708_big.jpgAlthough you can find sturgeon feeding all winter most of the larger fish are not active and hard to find. You can find smaller active fish feeding in some of the deeper holes, salmon eggs seem to work best during winter months. We are now selling seats for our annual Sturgeon seminar held in April, to book a seat please call or e-mail us. You can read more about our Sturgeon Seminar. Our next peak sturgeon season is in the spring, which brings our annual migration of the Eulachon (small bait fish) to the Fraser River to spawn. Food in winter is scarce so when the Eulachon arrive the Sturgeon are eager to feed, it's not uncommon to hook 15 to 20 fish in a 6 hour trip. If you're looking for a great spring fishing adventure, sturgeon/steelhead combo makes for a great angling vacation.Monster Sturgeon Caught on Fraser RiverThis fish is the largest sturgeon hooked and landed on the Fraser river this year by a sport angler. It measured 11'1 with a 58 inch girth or 337.82 cm with a 148 cm girth and was caught by Missions STS Guiding Service Guide Matt Schaap and guests from Langley. The day was 5 minutes from being over when Matt recognized a small bite, he thought it was a small fish, set the hook and 90 minutes later landed one of the largest sport caught fish ever caught. Fraser Trout Fishinghttp://www.guidebc.com/images/p1200214_082108_big.jpgIf your looking for some winter trout fishing you can find some decent Cutthroat Trout fishing on the Fraser River during winter. Many of the side ponds and back channels hold fish during winter months. You can also find actively feeding trout in the main stream near the shoreline. For fly fishing I highly recommend using winter stone fly patterns. Stone fly’s are readily available in the Fraser and are the main food diet for feeding trout. You can also find some decent Pike Minnow fishing in the Fraser using small bead headed stone fly patterns. If you’re a fly tier, check out our fly patterns fly patternsVedder River Steelhead
http://www.guidebc.com/images/p1040004_010609_big.jpgThe Vedder has been fishing pretty well the past week. STS Guide Gerry Dewar has been landing some nice fish in the lower and mid river area. The lickman/peach rd area is getting some heavy fishing pressure for good reason. Lots of nice fish both hatchery and wild are being hooked in this area. Most anglers are float fishing with cured salmon eggs and wool.Over the next few days we will start to see the Vedder rise and color up due to snow melt. The warm weather will definitely bring some water inot the system so watch out for a rising river over the next day or two.If your looking to get out on the flow for steelhead, we offer guided steelhead fishing on the Vedder River which is one of our largest steelhead producing rivers in SW British Columbia. STS Guide Gerry Dewar is considered one of the top anglers on the Vedder and has been catching brood stock for the past 30 years. All guide trips on the Vedder are walk and wade with instructional steelhead fishing available on all of our guided trips. Best fishing is between Feb 15 to April 15. Trout fishing in the ValleyThe Upper Pitt River sea-run Bull Trout fishery is almost hear. End of May through the month of June is best. Book now as we limit the number of anglers per day on this river. Last year our biggest trout was 12 lbs but we did manage quite a few fish between 8 to 10 and lots of 4 to 6 lb trout. Our best day was 40 fish on the fly so don't miss out on this world class fishery. Check out these fish from last year. http://www.guidebc.com/photos/photofly2.asp
There are several local rivers that offer some great winter trout fishing on the fly. Although these rivers can sometimes be difficult to reach due to bad weather, they are definatley worth the effort. We will continue to offer guided trout fishing throughout the winter for those anglers looking for some real adventure. Please give us a call or e-mail to find our more about our winter trout fishing adventures. Harrison River
The Harrison River can produce some good results for cutthroat trout during the winter months. Fishing egg patterns under a float with a drift rod or fly rod is a great way to entice them, also fly fishing with streamers and minnow patterns can work well. One fly that should not be overlooked in the winter is the Flesh fly using a down stream dead drift presentation. If you're not planning on hitting the flow over the winter, spend some time on our fly tieing gallery, you will find hundreds of fly patterns to choose from.STS Guiding Service is committed to providing current and future clients with the highest level of service and quality angling experiences at the lowest price possible. We pride ourselves on our personal and friendly service, our ability to catch fish on 95% of our guided charters. We are fishing the area 12 months of the year. For us fishing is a year round commitment, not just a summer job.Join our team of 8 professional guides for the 2008 season and see why STS is considered #1 in the valley.To Book Your next guided adventure, call us Toll Free 1-866-771-3474Extraordinary Fly-fishing for Sea Run Bull Trout BOOK NOW FOR JUNE 200845 minutes from Vancouver is one of British Columbia’s best-kept secrets. The Upper Pitt River is located at the north end of Pitt Lake, North America’s only freshwater tidal lake. Each spring the Upper Pitt River receives thousands of Sea-run Bull trout heading back to their home waters in Garibaldi Park to spawn. Each high tide brings a fresh run of fish into the lower reaches of the Upper Pitt River. We begin targeting this bright chrome fish in mid May with fantastic fishing opportunities through June until mid to late July. Some of the best fishing occurs between May 21 to Jun 31. These fish reach as much as 14 lbs with an average size of 4 to 8 lbs. incredible action on the fly and light spinning tackle. We are now booking for our May – June 2008 Sea-run Bull Trout Fishery. This trip is limited to 2 boats per day so book now for best dates.To Book Your next guided adventure, call us Toll Free 1-866-771-3474 Remember to conserve your catch
Kitimat River - June 10th, 2008
supplied by: Noel Gyger Guided Fishing Adventures RECORDED:70 °FISHING: Good
The photo of the week shows fishing guide Gord McKean (aka “splash Gordon”) with a beautiful, big Kitimat River Chinook (King) Salmon. Photo courtesy of Gill McKean of Westcoast Fishing Adventures ================================Noel Gyger – Guided Fishing Adventures and Weekly Fishing Report4012 Best Street, Terrace BC V8G 5R8, CanadaTel/Fax: (250) 635-2568Cell: (250) 631-2678E-mail: noel@noelgyger.caHome Page: www.noelgyger.caFishing Reports: www.noelgyger.ca/past-fishing-reports.htmRECORD SALMON & STEELHEAD Spin or fly-fishingRIVER, LAKE, STREAM or OCEAN!!!================================ Home Page: www.noelgyger.caNoel Gyger - WEEKLY FISHING REPORT dated June 1 – June 8, 2008 Dear Fishing Friends: SUMMARY: Wow, the opportunity to catch a BIG Chinook (King) Salmon is here now! We have some decent river conditions.Theweather has been pretty good all week and you can’t beat this early summer season. It has been a little on the cool side with the odd rain shower but this is good and helps the rivers shape up. Believe it or not the mighty Skeena is borderline (to fair) fishable. Normally, in a good year, thousands of Chinook Salmon are in the river heading upstream to their home rivers. The Salmon swim no matter how dirty the water is. If this water gets a little cleaner…watch out…the “bites” are going to be fantastic! Best places to fish are anywhere downstream of Terrace BC. Excitement grows from anglers and guides in the Terrace area for this opportunity and an anticipation of another good run. The only problem with this glowing scenario is we don’t know the size of the Salmon run yet. The lower Kalum has fresh Chinook (King) Salmon moving in and the knowledgeable guides know where to go and how to catch them. Fishing at the mouths of rivers where tributaries enter side channels of the Skeena River is also a good bet at this time i.e. the Exstew, Kasiks and Exchamsiks Rivers. The Zymoetz (Copper) River is still dirty. Thank goodness for the Kitimat River and other smaller coastal rivers and streams because if the big Skeena is un-fishable these smaller waters usually are. And ocean and lake fishing is fantastic. BTW - the Kitimat River is clean but fishing is only fair for Chinook. The run seems to be late this year. Check out the Ron Wakita report below for more detail. The above photo shows six Japanese guests at Nicholas Dean Lodge. Mr. Tahara Yasufumi (bottom row – right side) was here 15 years ago. Nice to have a repeat guest even if it takes a few years. That’s me on the far left, second in from the far right is Gary Mills and far right is Chad Black. The dogs name is Ruger. They just finished two days river fishing for Chinook and are on their way to Prince Rupert for three days of ocean fishing. This is their fourth trip back for ocean fishing. The river fishing was slow for them. LIST OF “New” ITEMS POSTED ON THE WEBSITE THIS WEEK:- June 6/08 details of a BOOK RELEASE from Nimmo Bay Resorthttp://www.noelgyger.ca/news-bulletin.htm- June 7/08 on item posted on “Conservation”http://www.noelgyger.ca/conservation.htmNOW BOOKING FOR 2008 Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the "best" fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one. I will promptly answer your questions and concerns. Cast here http://noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm to read more of what I have to offer. Many people book three trips per year to our area; one trip in the spring (March-April-May), one trip in the summer (June-July-August) and one trip in the fall (September-October-November). They love having the same guide but fishing for different fish in different areas. Be sure to check out my website at www.noelgyger.ca for news bulletins, mid week fishing updates, conservation, my history, quality waters strategy, special guided fishing trips, video clips, scenic river photos, wildlife photos and others, comments from past guests, informational articles, archived fishing reports from 1996 through 2002 and a sportfishing market place. I hope it meets with your entire satisfaction. FISHING GUIDE REPORTS FOR THIS WEEK ARE FROM: Ron WakitaChad BlackGill McKeanTodd Haynes CURRENT REPORT and summary for Skeena and Tributaries: Type of fish caught: Chinook and Trout for river. Chinook/Halibut/Bottom Fish/Crab for ocean. Thank you for using barbless hooks. FISHING THIS WEEK: GOODNote: I was going to leave the above graph at only FAIR but since the ocean fishing has been so hot I moved it to GOOD.LARGEST FISH OF THE WEEK:Specie: 40-pound Chinook Where: Skeena trib Angler: Greg Buck Weather: Cloudy with 60 percent chance of showers. High 13. Region normal: Max. Temp. 19 degrees C. Min. Temp. 7 degrees C. Sunrise 5:00 AM Sunset 10:07 PM WEATHER REPORTS VIA TELEPHONE: Environment Canada taped messages constantly updated, giving current conditions and three-day forecasts. Terrace 250-635-4192 Kitimat 250-632-7864 Prince Rupert 250-627-1155 Smithers 250-847-1958. For current Terrace weather information please cast on:http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/cities/can/pages/CABC0292.htm?ref=wxbtnoldWATER CONDITIONS: Skeena River is borderline fishable. Lower Kalum River is fishable. Kitimat River is dropping and is fishable. Zymoetz (Copper) River is dirty. Most smaller coastal streams are in good shape. current water heights FOR:sKEENA rIVER:http://scitech.pyr.ec.gc.ca/waterweb/fullgraph.asp?stnid=08EF001KITIMAT RIVER:http://scitech.pyr.ec.gc.ca/waterweb/fullgraph.asp?stnid=08FF002Skeena River: The water heights have been dropping all week and is now borderline fishable. This is what is needed to bring in the Chinook (King) Salmon runs. Kalum River:The water in the low end is fishable. Hopefully a good run of Chinook are still entering now. This is a Classified River year round and can be guided from March 15 through October 15 only. The Steelhead record is 32-pounds. To see a photo of this fish cast to: http://noelgyger.ca/records/Record003.jpg The angler is Dennis Therrien. Kasiks River:It is now possible to fish for Chinook at the mouth, in the clean seam, where it joins the Skeena. Sometimes the Chinook come out of the Skeena and into the clean water in search for scent of their home river. EXCHAMSIKS RIVER: Same as above, it is now possible to fish for Chinook in the clean seam. EXSTEW RIVER: Same as above, it is now possible to fish for Chinook in the clean seam. Note: the above three rivers are closed to angling for Chinook except at the very low end. Please check 2007 – 2009 BC Freshwater Salmon Supplement (fancy name for regulations) at: www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recfish for details. Zymoetz (Copper) River:The water is still colored up. Area River Records:Chinook Salmon: Skeena River, 92.5-pounds; Kalum River, 85-pounds; Kitimat River, 74-pounds; Steelhead: Skeena River, 45-pounds; Coho Salmon: Skeena River, 27-pounds. The above photos show some very happy anglers who decided to go ocean fishing for Halibut this week…as they wait for the river fishing to get red hot for Chinook. Photo courtesy Gill McKean of Westcoast Fishing AdventuresIn Gill’s own words, “Here are a few photo's for a report from yesterday, what a "BLAST" Austen, my son caught rat fish, dog fish, rock fish and of course the mighty Halibut. We even got broke off twice and I caught the same fish again with the hooks still in him!
Splash Gordon got spanked by a monster Halibut it was too funny! He is still talking about it!
Great day for the guides day OFF!
Hope you are all well…wish you were here to help us eat all this Halibut.”
Fishing Report from:Nicholas Dean Lodgefor the Week of June 1 to June 7, 2008
Hello Anglers, Water conditions have continued to improve on many of the rivers in the Skeena region over the last week. The majority of tributary rivers has dropped, and in many cases, has started to clear. Even the big river itself has been receding slowly, and is now in the “grey” phase. At this height and clarity, it is not quite fishable in all areas, but there are some locations which can be productive, such as clean seams, where water from cleaner tributary rivers enters the Skeena. Given similar temperatures over the next week, the Skeena should continue to drop and clear. On the other hand, the Kitimat River has been clean for most of the week, and Greg and Sky have reported some success while fishing spoons and back trolling plugs from drift boats. The Chinook landed have been a little on the small side, around 20 lbs, but as the season progresses, more and larger fish will enter the Kitimat and Skeena drainages Until next week, tight lines and screaming reels… Chad Black Operations manager
Nicholas Dean Lodge…where every cast is an adventure!
CURRENT REPORT and summary for Northern Coastal Rivers:
Fishing Report from: Ron Wakita of Reliable Guide and ChartersKITIMAT RIVER: The Kitimat River has been in great shape this week and there have been a few chinook caught. There was a chinook caught at the Lower Dike on Monday morning. Brad Schmidt, construction worker working the Eurocan Shut down caught a 20lb chinook also at the Lower Dike after work Tuesday evening. Work hard! Play hard! Well done Brad. Mike Herzberg of Reliable Guide and Charters fishing with his buddy Alvaro landed 21lb.Chinook on Friday. Mike and Alvaro also lost another Chinook on the same drift. Terrance Reynolds also of Reliable Guide and Charters drifted this morning and they lost two Chinook, one right at the boat. As disappointing as it is to lose a fish so close to landing, it is an inevitable part of fishing that all anglers must come to terms with. The Chinook run in the Kitimat River appears to be a little late this year and consensus of some hardcore chinook anglers is that they have had better results at this same period in previous years. We are on some big tides now and I suspect that catch rates will increase dramatically and so will the disposition of some chinook anglers. Fishermen are sure in a lot better mood when they are catching fish! DOUGLAS CHANNEL: The Douglas Channel is starting to produce some pretty good results. Doug Rumley and I boated a 25lb. chinook last Sunday. Shane Campbell of Shane's Fishing Adventures fishing with his buddy Vince Sealy and Vince's Uncle Wayne hooked seven Chinook landing four between 14lbs to 28lbs on Wednesday. They also boated six halibut on the same trip. Congratulations to Shane, Vince and Uncle Wayne on a great day of fishing!
My nephew Derek and I fishing with Derek's buddy Jordan boated a 20lb. Chinook this morning.(Saturday June 7th) Wes Owen of Golden Adventures boated a 28lb.chinook today as well and lost another one also in the Kitimat Harbour. I agree with the local consensus that the chinook run may be a bit late this year but we are definitely seeing signs that the chinook run is picking up now especially in the Kitimat Harbour fishery and further down the Douglas Channel. The above are Todd Haynes and Rob Vodola with some very nice Kitimat Douglas Channel Harbour Chinook Salmon that did not quite make it into the river. These fish were landed on Wednesday and were estimated to weight around 28-pounds each. Photos courtesy of Todd Haynes of Nautical West Charters Cast to this link for Kitimat tide tables http://www.waterlevels.gc.ca/cgi-bin/tide-shc.cgi?queryType=showRegion&language=english®ion=1Fishing RegulationWebsites: 2007-2009 BC tidal waters and freshwater Salmon fishing information:www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recfishEffective April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2009 2008-2009 Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis:www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish Effective April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009Note: For In-season Regulation Changes posted on the web check the above URL’sGUEST FISHING PHOTOS:*** If any of you have special fishing photos, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them. Catch & Release formula:Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches) Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches) MARKETPLACE(Sportfishing related items only please) Contact me anytime to list your itemsBuy, sell, trade or swap your item or items by listing them here today Your Ad will receive LOCAL, REGIONAL, NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL exposure: · Your Ad will be posted on my website · Your Ad will be promoted in my Weekly Fishing Reports · Your Ad will be posted on other websites who host my fishing reports Examples of what to list: Boats and accessories, Motors, Vehicles, Air Craft, Rods, Reels, Tackle, Real Estate (i.e. fishing lodge), Rentals (Cabins Cottages), Lakeshore, Tourist accommodation, ATV, RV's, RV sites, Taxidermy, Books, Magazines, Videos, Photographs, Antiques, Artwork, Clothing, Employment, Trade/Swap and Wanted, Help Wanted, etc. To view the items currently listed please cast to:http://www.noelgyger.ca/market-place.htm To receive my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT and PHOTO via e-mail please send your name and e-mail address to: Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING! Yours sincerely, Noel F. Gyger Back to: http://noelgyger.ca/past-fishing-reports.htm Home page: www.noelgyger.ca
Kalum River - April 21st, 2008
supplied by: Noel Gyger Guided Fishing Adventures RECORDED:60 °FISHING: Good
The photo of the week shows Chad Black with a gorgeous, bright Kalum River Steelhead caught on April 18, 2008 within ten minutes of starting to fish. Cast to Video Clip 0048 ================================Noel Gyger – Guided Fishing Adventures and Weekly Fishing Report4012 Best Street, Terrace BC V8G 5R8, CanadaTel/Fax: (250) 635-2568Cell: (250) 631-2678E-mail: noel@noelgyger.caHome Page: www.noelgyger.caFishing Reports: www.noelgyger.ca/past-fishing-reports.htmRECORD SALMON & STEELHEAD Spin or fly-fishingRIVER, LAKE, STREAM or OCEAN!!!================================ Home Page: www.noelgyger.caNoel Gyger - WEEKLY FISHING REPORT dated April 13 – April 20, 2008Dear Fishing Friends: SUMMARY:It has been mostly cool, cloudy with scattered rain all week but the weekend is very nice. And the water is up – but still clean…yahoo! I guess I can say it now…conditions are near perfect. The guiding clients have been doing very well especially those who book multiple days. Multiple days mean they get to experience different rivers, pools and runs. I was tempted to move the fishing gauge from good to excellent. The Zymoetz (Copper) is clean and fishing on the low end is good. The Kalum is very clean and fishing is very good. With a “bump” of water the Kitimat River is fishing well for Steelhead. See the Ron Wakita report below for more detail. The Skeena River is clean and Steelhead are being caught. Don’t spread this rumor but we have already caught our first Chinook (King) Salmon on the Kalum River this year. It happened on April 3rd. Sky Richard was the lucky angler. Soon, we may be able to catch both Steelhead and Chinook on the same day. Now that experience will change your life. I know, it changed mine back in 1980. I have a report of guiding clients “just about” landing a Steelhead on the Kalum River that was estimated to weigh over 25-pounds. It got away before they could get the photo. I also have a report from my friend Rob Vodola who was fishing with a friend on the Kitimat River after work for a couple of hours and hooked-up with a couple of very fresh Steelhead just in from the ocean. Rob landed his fish a big wild male estimated to weigh over 20-pounds…plus. He said it was the most beautiful Steelhead he had seen this year. Even with the low water the fish are still making it upstream. Check out a brief report of the day Chad Black and I had on the Kalum on April 18th. LIST OF “New” ITEMS POSTED ON THE WEBSITE THIS WEEK:- Apr 10/08 one video clips posted on “Video Clips”http://www.noelgyger.ca/video-clips-web.htm under new category “Tips and Techniques”- Apr 17/08 one item posted on “Conservation” http://www.noelgyger.ca/conservation.htm- Apr 18/08 one video clip posted on “Video Clips” http://www.noelgyger.ca/video-clips-web.htmNOW BOOKING FOR 2008 Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the "best" fishing guide and/or fishing lodges. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one. I will promptly answer your questions and concerns. Cast here http://noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm to read more of what I have to offer. Many people book three trips per year to our area; one trip in the spring (March-April-May), one trip in the summer (June-July-August) and one trip in the fall (September-October-November). They love having the same guide but fishing for different fish in different areas. Be sure to check out my website at www.noelgyger.ca for news bulletins, mid week fishing updates, conservation, my history, quality waters strategy, special guided fishing trips, video clips, scenic river photos, wildlife photos and others, comments from past guests, informational articles, archived fishing reports from 1996 through 2002 and a sportfishing market place. I hope it meets with your entire satisfaction. CURRENT REPORT and summary for Skeena and Tributaries: Type of fish caught: Steelhead and Trout Thank you for using barbless hooks. FISHING THIS WEEK: GOOD*LARGEST FISH OF THE WEEK:Specie: 20-pound plus Steelhead Where: Kitimat River Angler: Rob Vodola Weather: Sunny with cloudy periods. Windy. High plus 5. Region normal: Max. Temp. 13 degrees C. Min. Temp. 2 degrees C. Sunrise 6:20 AM Sunset 8:47 AM WEATHER REPORTS VIA TELEPHONE: Environment Canada taped messages constantly updated, giving current conditions and three-day forecasts. Terrace 250-635-4192 Kitimat 250-632-7864 Prince Rupert 250-627-1155 Smithers 250-847-1958. For current Terrace weather information please cast on:http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/cities/can/pages/CABC0292.htm?ref=wxbtnoldWATER CONDITIONS: The Skeena is low and in good shape. The Kalum (upper and lower) River is in good shape and has come up about one foot since last week. Kitimat River is very low and clean and is starting to come up a bit also. current water heights FOR:sKEENA rIVER:http://scitech.pyr.ec.gc.ca/waterweb/fullgraph.asp?stnid=08EF001KITIMAT RIVER:http://scitech.pyr.ec.gc.ca/waterweb/fullgraph.asp?stnid=08FF002Skeena River: The water is in good shape, low and clean. Fishing for Steelhead is good if you know where to go and what to do. Kalum River:The water, both upper and lower sections are in excellent shape and fishing for Steelhead is very good. The water has come up so it is much safer for boating. April 18, 2008 Chad Black and I had an opportunity to fish together for a few hours on the Kalum River. Chad's favorite way to fish is with his Spey fly rod. He is a pro fly caster. It didn't take him very long to catch his Steelhead (see: Photo of the Week) and what a fresh fish it was, bright and clean. It must have just come in from the ocean this spring. I managed to shoot some video and still shots. Did I say, I caught a Steelhead also. I caught mine spinning with a light silver spoon. Chad shot some video and stills also with his camera…so check back early next week when I will have had a chance to edit and post it on the website. We also caught Cutthroat and Dolly Varden Char. It was just a GREAT day fishing. Both our fish were females Chad’s estimated to weigh 10-12 and mine 12-14-pounds. Chad gave me some very good Spey Fly Fishing Tips and Techniques on video (soon to be posted)…stay tuned…it is only going to get better. This is a Classified River year round and can be guided from March 15 through October 15 only. The Steelhead record is 32-pounds. To see a photo of this fish cast to: http://noelgyger.ca/records/Record003.jpg The angler is Dennis Therrien. Zymoetz (Copper) River:The upper section is closed to fishing as of December 31 but the lower section below the first canyon will stay open for Steelheaders to enjoy. Water is clean now and the fishing is pretty good. Area River Records:Chinook Salmon: Skeena River, 92.5-pounds; Kalum River, 85-pounds; Kitimat River, 74-pounds; Steelhead: Skeena River, 45-pounds; Coho Salmon: Skeena River, 27-pounds. Fishing Report from:Nicholas Dean Lodgefor the Week of April 13 to April 19/08Hello Anglers, The prevailing low, clear water conditions on the Skeena and its tributaries changed last week as rainfall and snowmelt inundated rivers. Though the Skeena has a little more colour to it, it has been fishing well during the past week, and some very fresh Steelhead have been caught there. Other rivers have redeveloped their natural glacial colour, which Steelhead seem to feel more at home in. Though the fishing has been a little spottier than in previous weeks, the Steelhead are still in the rivers in good numbers, and the game is more about finding aggressive fish. Guests at the lodge last week hooked into several Steelhead on the fly, ranging from large bucks with prominent red stripes, to white chrome fish with a hint of pink in their cheeks. Another group of Italian anglers who were guided by Greg and Dustin experienced some great fishing on light spoons cast to deep, swirly pools. The next week is forecast to be a warm sunny one, which will hopefully continue to melt snow and raise river levels. An increase in water levels will no doubt bring more fresh fish into the Skeena system which, as water temperatures rise, will be very strong fighters. And perhaps most striking, the warmer weather will allow us to access some of our favourite remote coastal Steelhead rivers. These are creeks and small rivers where 20 lb Steelhead can be sight fished as they hold behind large boulders in clear water. More on this adventure next week… Until next week, tight lines and screaming reels… Chad Black Operations manager
Nicholas Dean Lodge…where every cast is an adventure! CURRENT REPORT and summary for Northern Coastal Rivers:
Fishing Report from: Ron Wakita of Reliable Guide and ChartersKITIMAT RIVER:Anyone drifting the Kitimat River please beware of the log jam above Powerlines! The Kitimat River water level went up earlier this week due to some rain we had last weekend. With the rise in the water the Steelhead catch rates were pretty good earlier in the week through out the river particularly in the upper end. The higher water levels encouraged more Steelhead into the river and also caused more Steelhead to migrate up river. I managed to land one on Sunday and another on Monday evening. Tuesday evening after work I was fishing with Francis Timmons from Quebec and he managed to land another one in the upper river. Pat Oliver also landed one about 18lbs. on Wednesday up river. Many other Steelhead anglers reported good success as well. After the rain stopped and with continuing colder temperatures the river has dropped steadily during the latter part of this week and the catch rates have dropped off in the upper river. The lower cleaner water level has created more challenging conditions although Randy Marshall of Randy's River Guiding reported landing a 12lber with his client on Saturday. There seems to be more Steelhead holding in the lower drift and the wider deeper Steelhead runs in the lower portion of the Kitimat has produced more fish. One drift boat has reported hooking five Steelhead landing three in the lower drift on Friday. We have some higher than average tides in the next few days which should help bring some fresh Steelhead into the Kitimat. I suspect that the higher tides will bring more fresh Steelhead into the Kitimat River but the lower river level will cause them to hold in the lower portion. To test this theory I plan to drift the lower portion tomorrow morning. Stay tuned! DOUGLAS CHANNEL: We have experienced some high winds in the Douglas Channel which has caused little to no activity. Accordingly not much to report from the Douglas Channel.
Cast to this link for Kitimat tide tables http://www.waterlevels.gc.ca/cgi-bin/tide-shc.cgi?queryType=showRegion&language=english®ion=1Fishing RegulationWebsites: 2007-2009 BC tidal waters and freshwater Salmon fishing information:www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recfishEffective April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2009 2008-2009 Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis:www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish Effective April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009Note: For In-season Regulation Changes posted on the web check the above URL’sGUEST FISHING PHOTOS:The above photo is from a few years ago and shows Robert Tomes, a repeat guest, with his BIG Steelhead landed on the Kalum River while Spey Fly Fishing.*** If any of you have special fishing photos, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them. Catch & Release formula:Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches) Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches) MARKETPLACE(Sportfishing related items only please) Contact me anytime to list your itemsBuy, sell, trade or swap your item or items by listing them here today Your Ad will receive LOCAL, REGIONAL, NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL exposure: · Your Ad will be posted on my website · Your Ad will be promoted in my Weekly Fishing Reports · Your Ad will be posted on other websites who host my fishing reports Examples of what to list: Boats and accessories, Motors, Vehicles, Air Craft, Rods, Reels, Tackle, Real Estate (i.e. fishing lodge), Rentals (Cabins Cottages), Lakeshore, Tourist accommodation, ATV, RV's, RV sites, Taxidermy, Books, Magazines, Videos, Photographs, Antiques, Artwork, Clothing, Employment, Trade/Swap and Wanted, Help Wanted, etc. To view the items currently listed please cast to:http://www.noelgyger.ca/market-place.htm To receive my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT and PHOTO via e-mail please send your name and e-mail address to: Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING! Yours sincerely, Noel F. Gyger Back to: http://noelgyger.ca/past-fishing-reports.htm Home page: www.noelgyger.ca
Tofino and Clayoquot Sound Area - March 13th, 2008
supplied by: Jay's Clayoquot Ventures RECORDED:0 °FISHING: Good Signs of Spring for Tofino B.C.
After a winter that didn’t batter us nearly as hard as last year on Vancouver Island’s west coast, the signs of spring are showing in a number of ways. We know that during this time of year, the overall temperature and weather conditions start to show a marked improvement than the “Storm Watching” months of November thru February. I often see a few different indicators within the local landscape that remind me of Chinook Salmon feeding and growing not to far outside of the Tofino Harbour, as well as spring run Steelhead entering local rivers chrome bright and ready to spawn along with their summer and winter run cousins from the same family of Rainbow Trout. One obvious indicator for Chinook Salmon at this time of the year is the recent Herring spawn in local inlets, most often near Hot Springs Cove at the mouth of Sidney Inlet. Hungry Chinook Salmon follow the Herring into the inlets during January, and play the chase and feed game until mid to late February when the Herring normally spawn along the rocky shores and Kelp beds. This event is an amazing spectacle of nature, with most forms of local Marine mammals and Birds getting in on the festivities. From below, the Chinook Salmon, Orca Whales, Sea Lions and Sea Birds will push schools of Herring near the surface where the Gulls and Eagles are anxiously awaiting there lunch to boil to the surface. During this time, often the hierarchy of the food chain is prevalent, as the whales will consume Salmon and Sea Lions (though not close to enough of them), while the Sea Lions will consume the Salmon and so on….. After the Herring spawn finishes, Chinook Salmon will again follow the masses of these baitfish back out to the outer coastline, where they resume the feeding ritual on various other species like the Pacific Sand lance, Pilchard and Anchovy. Around this same time, the temperature promotes budding in the trees and plants, and encourages a common spring time plant that I personally use as one of my main natural indicators. The Skunk Cabbage (Lysichiton Americanus) is a smelly plant that grows in swampy or wet wooded areas. The appearance is far better than the smell, and I am always happy to see this bright yellow and green plant, as it is a timely indicator for me to get ready for the spring times best action for Chinook Salmon, Halibut and my personal favourite, Steelhead. Over the years of fishing many remote and not so remote river systems on Vancouver Island, I have always found that when the Skunk Cabbage sprouts out of the moist soil, and really starts to get the pungent aroma, it is prime time for my favourite fishery of the year. The progressive increase in water and air temperature during this time, encourages spring runs of Steelhead to enter various rivers along the coast, and makes for very enjoyable fishing conditions. I find these Steelhead unique in comparison to most others throughout the year. It is not because they are easier to catch, and definitely not due to their overall numbers, as they can be sparse at best. There is something to be said about an anadromous fish that waits for the ideal timing of water flow and temperature to enter the river system, ripe with Eggs or Milt, and wearing a coat of ocean bright chrome. They can travel many miles upstream overnight to find their natal spawning beds, and do their deed of nature. Often they will spend a few days to mend after spawning, when these “Kelts” will migrate out to sea, back to the challenges and dangers of the open ocean for another year. It is during this ocean survival regime that they have to pass their lives most rigorous tests, hopefully allowing them a return to the spawning beds once again. I am always amazed to catch and release these powerful Silver Bullets, still adorned with natural lice from the sea, already spawned out and heading back downstream. I suppose that this amazing and unique spawning cycle has helped ensure future returns, as most other Steelhead will hold for many months in-stream prior to spawning. I would assume that whether you are an angler or not, there is a sign of spring that often brings a smile to your face or provides good thoughts of an outdoor opportunity, one of many that we are fortunate to have on Vancouver Island.
Courtenay - saltwater - February 13th, 2008
supplied by: Fishing BC Online RECORDED:45 °FISHING: Great
Winter Chinook fishing all around the Georgia Strait continues to be strong. Large schools of salmon seem to be content with hanging around feeding on the massive amounts of herring in the area and with literally hundreds and hundreds of tons entering the Georgia Strait to spawn in the next few weeks these fish should fatten up nicely over the next couple of months. More and more anglers are getting word of the opportunity and have chosen to dust off their gear and hit the water in all areas from Campbell River to Nanoose Bay. Many are hooking into as many as twenty fish if the weather and tides co-operate. Good sized fish are being landed in areas like Lambert Channel, Eagle Rock, off the lighthouse in Campbell River, the “hump” off of Kitty Coleman, Tribune Bay, Flora Isle, French Creek and the waters in and around Chrome Island. Fish are hitting over a wide range of depths, from 75 ft all the way down to 320 ft but most fish are being hooked around 160 ft. Kermit Coyote spoons trolled behind Betsy flashers (gold or silver) have kept us busy most days, although every day out seems to require some sort of gear and or color change, but regardless the fishing is as good as it has been in a long time. With no virtually no commercial herring sets made north of Qualicum during the roe fishery last year it should serve as a reminder to ALL that if there is feed for migrating stocks of salmon in the Georgia Strait the fish stocks will increase, it’s a no-brainer…..more feed more fish….Every year about this time thousands of large migrating Chinooks enter the waters on the east coast of Vancouver Island hot on the trail of the billions of herring and some of the best fishing of the year is just around the corner. Having landed many fish in the 30 + range outside of Flora Isle (Hornby) in March and April, one would expect more of the same in the next month or two. Make sure to have your spools full as these fish are for the most part are right on the bottom at 200-230 ft can have you chasing them around for quite some time. Trolling large (6-7”) Wonder spoons or 5-6” silver prism Coyote spoons without a flasher, and stay right on the bottom dropping your deep lines down constantly to stay deep. The reefs just outside Whaling Station Bay (just north of Flora Ise) should not be overlooked as tide changes push bait up from the deep into areas where feeding salmon can be targeted as they chase the feed around. This is a great opportunity to do some mooching with your favorite setup. G&M FISHING CHARTERS (250) 954-6500 Toll Free at 1-800-577-6966 www.fishingbc.ca
Campbell River - saltwater - February 13th, 2008
supplied by: Fishing BC Online RECORDED:47 °FISHING: Great
Winter Chinook fishing all around the Georgia Strait continues to be strong. Large schools of salmon seem to be content with hanging around feeding on the massive amounts of herring in the area and with literally hundreds and hundreds of tons entering the Georgia Strait to spawn in the next few weeks these fish should fatten up nicely over the next couple of months. More and more anglers are getting word of the opportunity and have chosen to dust off their gear and hit the water in all areas from Campbell River to Nanoose Bay. Many are hooking into as many as twenty fish if the weather and tides co-operate. Good sized fish are being landed in areas like Lambert Channel, Eagle Rock, off the lighthouse in Campbell River, the “hump” off of Kitty Coleman, Tribune Bay, Flora Isle, French Creek and the waters in and around Chrome Island. Fish are hitting over a wide range of depths, from 75 ft all the way down to 320 ft but most fish are being hooked around 160 ft. Kermit Coyote spoons trolled behind Betsy flashers (gold or silver) have kept us busy most days, although every day out seems to require some sort of gear and or color change, but regardless the fishing is as good as it has been in a long time. With no virtually no commercial herring sets made north of Qualicum during the roe fishery last year it should serve as a reminder to ALL that if there is feed for migrating stocks of salmon in the Georgia Strait the fish stocks will increase, it’s a no-brainer…..more feed more fish….Every year about this time thousands of large migrating Chinooks enter the waters on the east coast of Vancouver Island hot on the trail of the billions of herring and some of the best fishing of the year is just around the corner. Having landed many fish in the 30 + range outside of Flora Isle (Hornby) in March and April, one would expect more of the same in the next month or two. Make sure to have your spools full as these fish are for the most part are right on the bottom at 200-230 ft can have you chasing them around for quite some time. Trolling large (6-7”) Wonder spoons or 5-6” silver prism Coyote spoons without a flasher, and stay right on the bottom dropping your deep lines down constantly to stay deep. The reefs just outside Whaling Station Bay (just north of Flora Ise) should not be overlooked as tide changes push bait up from the deep into areas where feeding salmon can be targeted as they chase the feed around. This is a great opportunity to do some mooching with your favorite setup. G&M FISHING CHARTERS (250) 954-6500 Toll Free at 1-800-577-6966 www.fishingbc.ca
Cowichan River - February 18th, 2007
supplied by: Island Outfitters FISHING: Good
Steelheading is GOOD on the Cowichan. The water level is just above 1.45 meters near the lake and just above 1.35 meters near Duncan. There are lots of steelhead in the river and we have heard of a quite few being landed, both on flies and gear. There are steelhead throughout the entire system now so there are lots of productive spots to chose from, not just the most popular pools. We’ve also heard that some fresh fish have also come into the lower end over the past few days. Good bets for steelhead on the Cowichan are pink worms, Gooey Bobs and Spin’n’Glo’s. At the top end of the river, anglers are doing well fly fishing for trout with egg patterns.
Sooke - Vancouver Island - February 18th, 2007
supplied by: Island Outfitters FISHING: Good
Just like last week, salmon fishing was GOOD but not too many people were out fishing. A few anglers caught springs, but mostly fish less than 10 lbs. Most of the salmon were being caught off the Sooke Bluffs near the trailer park and/or near Secretary Island and the mouth of the harbor. The fish are close to the bottom and deep (100 feet or more). With spoons try Watermelon or Army Truck color combinations with 4” Coyotes, Gypsies and Titans. Anchovy is still the most popular natural bait, using Rhys Davis Watermelon or Purple Haze teaser heads. With plastic baits, go with the Mint Tulip, Purple Haze hootchies or squirts. Really, almost anything that you use will catch springs right now if fished according to the manufacturer’s instructions. crabs. HALIBUT- Halibut fishing has started but we haven’t heard of any coming from here. Extra Large herring and/or octopus are the most popular baits. However, if the dogfish become a nuisance you can use Mudraker or Lucky Jigs or the new Glow in the Dark bullet Jig.
Becher Bay - Vancouver Island - February 18th, 2007
supplied by: Island Outfitters FISHING: Fair
Fishing was SLOWER with most boats getting a fish or two. The most productive area was from Whirl Bay to the Bedford Islands where anglers were catching springs up to 21 lbs. The big fish of the week was the 21 lb spring caught by Bob Dalziel in Whirl Bay. A 19 lb fish was landed near the Bedfords. The mouth of the bay near the can buoy has been slower, but still a few were caught there. The best fishing has been close to the bottom in 117 to 125 feet of water in Whirl Bay and a bit deeper if you’re fishing at the mouth of the bay. If you’re fishing bait, use anchovy or small herring in Watermelon, Mint Pearl or Purple Haze teaser heads. With plastic baits use the Cloverleaf, Army Truck or Purple Haze hootchies and squirts. With spoons try Silver/Brass, Green Silver, Mongoose, or Watermelon color combinations with 4” Coyotes, Gypsies and Titans. HALIBUT- Several ‘Chicken” size halibut were weighted in at the marina. Extra Large herring and/or Octopus are the most popular baits. However, if the dogfish become a nuisance you can use Mudraker or Lucky Jigs or the new Glow in the Dark bullet Jig.
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