Mature Chinook and Feisty Coho

 The big mature Chinook are now showing up in Georgia Straight. Some real nice ones have recently been caught locally. While we can't retain them just now it is expected that the regulations will change Sept 1st. If so I will post it here. These big boys are often holding close to shore in fairly shallow water. I use Purple spoons or even plugs to target them. 

Thanks to Kelly from Tofino Charters for the increadable photo of a nice Spring on a Lil' Nib

Jigging also works for these Springs. Lil' Nibs and Current Snippers worked well for me. Targeting large Springs with light spin casting rods is a lot of fun.

Coho and Pinks are also now appearing off Nanaimo and Gabriola Island. I got into a bunch of decent sized Coho off Neck point last Sunday. Target them with small blue/chrome spoons and TKO spoons. The TKO's are intended for Kokanee so you will need to put a larger hook on them. You can also troll a bit faster in shallower water to hopefully avoid the undersized chinook.

With any luck the Pink Salmon will move into Departure Bay and give the shore fisherman an opportunity. Our expanded fresh water department has many pink spinners like the Mepps Flying C that will work for Pinks. Be aware of the hook restriction in the Bay. Single barbless, 15mm point to shank hooks.

Follow the link for Area 17 rules https://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/tidal-mare...

On the West side of the Island it is still very hit and miss. Many fish are coming in, but they are moving fast. One day it's on fire at a specific location, the next it's cold. Anticipate where the fish are going to be, not where they were yesterday when your buddy got into them. Cop Car patterns are working well on the West side. Hoochies seem to be out performing spoons. Anchovies in bloody nose are also a good bet in the Alberni and Barkley Sound area.

Tips up,

steve@harbourchandler.ca