Island Outfitters Fishing Report

Week Ending August 2, 2020

Saltwater Report

Saltwater Overview

Chinook salmon retention with a 45-80 cm slot size opened on the weekend. This really brought anglers back onto the water now that they had an opportunity to bring a spring salmon home. Overall, chinook fishing was SLOW but many anglers did catch their one allowed chinook. There were some up to the maximum 80 cm and one fat, heavy spring weighed 19 lbs. Most of the chinooks caught weighed from 10-14 lbs. Anchovies were the most productive bait with spoons the next most effective choice. Coho fishing has been DROPPED OFF in Juan de Fuca Strait. Halibut fishing was FAIR this past weekend and anglers reported very few dogfish being caught. Lingcod anglers have had FAIR results. Crabbing was HIT OR MISS.

For all your Port Renfrew and Victoria fishing charter inquiries please email us at charters@fishingvictoria.com

If you wish to book a Victoria Fishing Charter as soon as possible, please call Rob Rippen at 250.686.3151

For the latest details on recreational fishery openings and closures in your area:

       A) Call 1-866-431-FISH or 604-666-2828 (24-hour phone line);

       B) Visit our web page http://notices.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fns-sap/index-eng.cfmto find applicable fishery notices; or

       C) Follow our sport fishing Twitter account https://twitter.com/sportfishingbc

Visit our Facebook page to see reports, news and videos by our guides and staff from their most recent trips.

 

Notices

FN0565-Commercial, Recreational and Aboriginal - Salmon - Chinook - 2020 Fraser River Chinook Conservation Measures and Coast-wide Recreational Annual Aggregates

This notice provides the Fraser Chinook fisheries management measures for the 2020 fishing season. 

Chinook Conservation Measures:

To address conservation concerns for Fraser River Chinook salmon, DFO is implementing updated fishery measures to support conservation of at risk Chinook. 

Updated management measures for Fraser River Chinook are outlined below.   

Northern Commercial Fisheries

Area F Troll - Chinook non-retention in effect until August 15, 2020.  

Southern BC Commercial Fisheries

Area G Troll: Delayed start for WCVI AABM Chinook fishery until August 1, 2020.

Southern BC Recreational Fisheries:

This Fisheries Notice supersedes FN0322. The following measures are now in effect for  


WCVI Subareas 20-1, 20-2, Areas 121, and seaward of a 1 nm Boundary Line (defined below) in Areas 123 to 127:
 
-	Effective immediately to 23:59 hours July 14: Chinook non-retention; 
-	00:01 hours July 15 to 23:59 hours July 31:  2 Chinook per day with a  maximum size limit of 80 cm.
-	00:01 hours August 1 to 23:59 hours December 31: 2 Chinook per day
Please refer to the relevant Fishery Notices outlining fisheries management measures in place to support the recovery of Southern Resident Killer Whales for any 
additional fishing restrictions in the areas listed above.


The Boundary Line is approximately 1nm seaward of the surf line and is defined as follows:

A line that begins at Pachena Point lighthouse at 48 degrees 43.327' N 125 degrees 05.855' W
then to 48 degrees 42.456' N 125 degrees 06.583' W seaward of Pachena Point,
then to 48 degrees 46.420' N 125 degrees 13.997' W seaward of Cape Beale,
then to 48 degrees 54.572' N 125 degrees 33.622' W seaward of Amphitrite Point,
then to 49 degrees 05.100' N 125 degrees 54.646' W seaward of Cox Point,
then to 49 degrees 10.280' N 126 degrees 04.790' W seaward of Blunden Island,
then to 49 degrees 16.472' N 126 degrees 15.140' W seaward of Rafael Point,
then to 49 degrees 20.008' N 126 degrees 17.188' W seaward of Sydney Inlet,
then to 49 degrees 23.807' N 126 degrees 24.483' W seaward of Hesquiat Point,
then to 49 degrees 21.620' N 126 degrees 28.478' W seaward of Matlahaw Point,
then to 49 degrees 22.113' N 126 degrees 33.508' W seaward of Estevan Point, 
then to 49 degrees 23.869' N 126 degrees 35.333' W seaward of Homais Cove,
then to 49 degrees 27.766' N 126 degrees 35.971' W seaward of Split Cape,
then to 49 degrees 31.494' N 126 degrees 35.669' W seaward of Escalante Point,
then to 49 degrees 34.042' N 126 degrees 41.611' W seaward of Maquinna Point,
then to 49 degrees 36.254' N 126 degrees 50.538' W seaward of Bajo Point,
then to 49 degrees 39.892' N 126 degrees 55.125' W seaward of Skuna Bay,
then to 49 degrees 44.400' N 127 degrees 00.289' W seaward of Ferrer Point,
then to 49 degrees 50.767' N 127 degrees 10.151' W seaward of Tatchu Point,
then to 49 degrees 59.142' N 127 degrees 28.125' W seaward of Lookout Island,
then to 50 degrees 06.948' N 127 degrees 41.617' W seaward of  Jackobson Point,
then to 50 degrees 03.599' N 127 degrees 47.722' W seaward of  Clerke Point,
then to 50 degrees 05.868' N 127 degrees 57.906' W seaward of  Solander Island,
then to 50 degrees 19.284' N 128 degrees 00.130' W seaward of  Lawn Point,
then to 50 degrees 31.501' N 128 degrees 14.238' W seaward of  Topknot Point,
then to 50 degrees 35.683' N 128 degrees 19.249' W seaward of  Cape Palmerston,
then to 50 degrees 39.280' N 128 degrees 23.459' W seaward of  Winifred Island,
then to 50 degrees 41.116' N 128 degrees 24.166' W seaward of  Cape Russell,
then to 50 degrees 44.137' N 128 degrees 26.559' W seaward of  Strange Rock,
then to 50 degrees 47.926' N 128 degrees 27.363' W seaward of  Cape Scott,
then to Frederiksen Point.

Chinook daily limits remain at 2 per day shoreward of this Boundary Line, and also in Areas 21 to 27.

Fishery Management measures to support the recovery of Southern Resident Killer Whales will be announced in a separate fishery notice.


Queen Charlotte Strait and Johnstone Strait (Area 12, excluding Subarea 12-14): 
-	Immediately to 23:59 hours July 14:  Chinook non-retention in the majority of Area 12: 
-	00:01 hours July 15 to 23:59 hours August 16: 1 Chinook per day with a maximum size limit of 80 cm.
-	00:01 hours August 17 to 23:59 hours August 31: 1 Chinook per day
-	00:01 hours September 1 to 23:59 hours December 31: 2 Chinook per day

A small number of terminal and non-Fraser Chinook retention opportunities are under consideration and may be announced in a separate Fishery Notice.

For clarity, Chinook daily limits remain at 2 per day in Area 11 and Subarea 12-14. 

Strait of Georgia - North - Areas 13 to 17, Subareas 29-1 and 29-2: 
-	Immediately to 23:59 hours July 14:  Chinook non-retention.  
-	00:01 hours July 15 to 23:59 hours August 31: 1 Chinook per day with a maximum size limit of 80 cm.
-	00:01 hours September 1 to 23:59 hours December 31: 2 Chinook per day

A small number of terminal and non-Fraser Chinook retention opportunities in Areas 13 and 15 are under consideration and may be announced in a separate Fishery Notice.

Strait of Georgia - South and Juan de Fuca - Areas 18, Subareas 19-3 to 19-12, Subareas 20-3 to 20-7, Area 28 and Subareas 29-3 to 29-5 (with the exception of those 
portions of Areas 28 and 29 listed in the section below), and Subarea 29-8:
-	Immediately to 23:59 hours July 31:  Chinook non-retention; 
-	00:01 hours August 1 to 23:59 hours August 31:  1 Chinook per day with a maximum size limit of 80 cm;
-	00:01 hours September 1 to 23:59 hours December 31: 2 Chinook per day.

Fishery Management measures to support the recovery of Southern Resident Killer Whales will be announced in a separate fishery notice.

Portions of Southern Strait of Georgia, Howe Sound and Burrard Inlet - Subareas 28-7 to 28-9; that portion of Subarea 28-2 that lies southerly of a line drawn due east 
from Halkett Point on Gambier Island (49 26.735'N, 123 19.302'W) to a point (49 26.550'N, 123 14.317'W) on the mainland corresponding with the southeast point of the 
Lions Bay RCA; and those portions of 29-3 to 29-5 that lie east of a line from Gower Point (49 23.021'N, 123 32.166' W) near Gibsons to Shah Point on the southern tip 
of Valdes Island (49 01.695'N, 123 35.721'W)

-	Immediately to 23:59 hours August 31:  No fishing for Chinook; 
-	00:01 hours September 1 to 23:59 hours December 31: 2 Chinook per day.

Approaches to Fraser River - Subareas 29-6, 29-7, 29-9 to 29-17 and the non-tidal waters of the Fraser River from Mission Bridge to the confluence with Sawmill Creek:
-	00:01 Hours January 1 to 23:59 Hours November 1: No fishing for salmon (Fishing opportunities for specific salmon stocks may be considered at a later date)

Freshwater Regions 3,5,7 & 8:
-	Year round: Closed to fishing for salmon (Fishing opportunities for specific salmon stocks may be considered at a later date)

Variation Orders:  2020-RCT-311, 2020-RCT-312, 2020-RFQ-0197, 2020-RFQ-148  

Coast-wide Recreational Fisheries:

For the recreational fishery, the annual aggregate limit for Chinook salmon is ten (10) in all tidal waters coast-wide.

Variation Order: 2020-RFQ-190

Fishers are reminded that minimum legal size limits apply and to check the species regulations for the areas being fished.

Southern BC Food, Social and Ceremonial Fisheries:

Priority access will be provided for First Nations Treaty and FSC harvests in South Coast marine waters and the Fraser River.  

South Coast FSC fisheries opportunities on mixed stocks will be permitted in marine areas with the exception of the approaches to the Fraser River (Subareas 29-6, 29-
7, 29-9 and 29-10).  

Very limited Fraser River FSC fisheries will be permitted into July to reduce encounters of at-risk Fraser Chinook, with opportunities to target healthy Summer 4(1) 
Chinook in August.   

Variation Order: 2020-305

Further information on specific management actions will be communicated by separate Fishery Notices. You can view or subscribe to fisheries notices 
at:  http://notices.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fns-sap/index-eng.cfm 

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Contact your local DFO office
http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/contact/regions/pacific-pacifique-eng.html

Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN0565
Sent June 19, 2020 at 1917

FN0561-Southern Resident Killer Whale Recovery - Salmon Fishing Closures - Effective August 1 until October 31, 2020

This notice provides information on planned fisheries management measures for the recovery of Southern Resident Killer Whales that will be in place from 00:01 hours 
August 1 until 23:59 October 31, 2020.

For management measures for Fraser Chinook stocks Southern British Columbia, please reference 
https://www.canada.ca/en/fisheries-oceans/news/2020/06/government-of-canada-takes-action-to-address-threats-to-struggling-fraser-river-chinook.html

Juan de Fuca Strait:
 
In Subareas 20-3 and 20-4, and that portion of Subarea 121-1 inside a line drawn from Bonilla Point Light at 48°35.732' N and 124°43.063' W, then southwesterly to a 
point at 48°29.618' N latitude and 124°43.553' W, then northwesterly to a point at 48°34.000' N and 124°54.200' W, then northeasterly back to the point of 
commencement, there will be no fishing for salmon (including Recreational and Commercial fisheries) from August 1, 2020 until October 31, 2020.

In addition, all fishing is prohibited (with some exceptions) from June 1, 2020 until November 30, 2020 in the Interim Sanctuary Zone located in portions of Subareas 
121-1 and 121-2. More information on this area can be found in Fisheries Notice FN0491. 

Gulf Islands (Pender Islands):

In Subarea 18-9 and those portions of Subareas 18-2, and 18-4 inside a line drawn from a point located along Wallace Point on North Pender Island at 48°44.167' north 
latitude and 123°13.917' west longitude southwesterly across Swanson Channel to a point located on the shoreline of Moresby Island at Parkin Point located at 48°
43.885' north latitude and 123°18.666' west longitude, thence northwesterly to northeastern extremity of Beaver Point on Saltspring Island at 48°46.518' north latitude 
and 123°21.997' west longitude, thence northeasterly to a point along the eastern shoreline of Prevost Island at 48°49.285' north latitude and 123°21.301' west 
longitude, thence northerly along the shoreline to 48°49.656' north latitude and 123°21.110' west longitude, thence northerly and westerly along the shoreline around 
Portlock Point to 48°49.944' north latitude and 123°21.468' west longitude, thence northerly across Trincomali Channel to a point on Galiano Island located at 48°
51.583' north latitude and 123°21.128' west longitude, thence across Active Pass to Helen Point on Mayne Island at 48°51.449' north latitude and 123°20.719' west 
longitude, thence southerly along the shoreline to the western extremity of Dinner Point at 48°50.010' north latitude and 123°19.675' west longitude, thence southerly, 
across to Stanley Point on North Pender Island located at 48°49.141' north latitude and 123°19.632' west longitude, and thence southerly and easterly along the 
shoreline of North Pender Island back to the point of commencement there will be no fishing for salmon (including Recreational and Commercial fisheries) from August 1, 
2020 until October 31, 2020.  

In addition, all fishing is prohibited (with some exceptions) from June 1, 2020 until November 30, 2020 in the Interim Sanctuary Zone located in a portion of Subarea 
18-4. More information on this area can be found in Fisheries Notice 0491.

Gulf Islands (Saturna Island):
  
Portions of Subareas 18-4, 18-5 and 18-11 are no fishing for salmon including Recreational and Commercial fisheries effective August 1, until October 31, 2020. Full 
coordinates can be found below.

In portions of Subareas 18-4, 18-5 and 18-11 inside a line drawn from Murder Point on Saturna Island located at 48°45.811' north latitude and 123°09.318' west 
longitude easterly and northerly along the shoreline to a point on northern shoreline of East Point 48°47.150'north latitude and 123°02.733' west longitude, thence 
northwesterly to a point in water at 48°47.367' north latitude and 123° 02.915' west longitude, thence northeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.617'north latitude 
and 123°02.483' west longitude, thence southeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.473' north latitude and 123°01.975 west longitude, then southwesterly to a point in 
water at 48°46.558' north latitude and 123°03.147' west longitude, thence southwesterly to a point in water intersecting with the international boundary with the 
United States of America at 48°44.866' north latitude and 123°04.638' west longitude, then southwesterly along the international boundary with the United States of 
America to a point in water located at 48°42.928' north latitude and 123°11.505' west longitude, then northeasterly in a straight line back to the point of 
commencement there will be no fishing for salmon (including Recreational and Commercial fisheries) from August 1, 2020 until October 31, 2020.

Variation Order: 

The Southern Resident Killer Whale population is small and declining, with only 72 remaining, and is exposed to a number of anthropogenic threats, including underwater 
noise and disturbance from vessels. Given the imminent threats whales are facing, the Government is also asking vessel operators to respect the following voluntary 
measures:

-Stop fishing within 1,000 metres of killer whales and let them pass;

-Respect a "Go Slow" zone around whales by reducing speed to less than 7 knots when within 1,000 metres of killer whales; and

-Reduce noise by turning echo sounders and fish finders off when not in use, and turning engines to neutral idle when within 400 metres of a killer whale.

For further information on the suite of Southern Resident Killer Whale 
mandatory and voluntary management measures, please visit: http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/whales-baleines/srkw-measures-mesures-ers-eng.html 

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Marine Mammal Team 
DFO.SRKW-ERS.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN0561
Sent June 19, 2020 at 1642

Category(s):
RECREATIONAL - Salmon
Subject:
FN0492-RECREATIONAL - Salmon - Coho - Areas 11 to 20, 111 and Subareas 29-1 to 29-5 - Coho Management Measures - Effective June 1, 2020

Continuing conservation concerns for Interior Fraser Coho require that 2020 Coho management measures remain precautionary.

Unless otherwise specified below, the daily limit for Coho is two (2) per day, (hatchery marked only) effective 00:01 hours June 1 to 23:59 hours December 31, 2020 in 
Areas 11 to 20, 111 and Subareas 29-1 to 29-5. These measures exclude finfish closed areas and Rockfish Conservation Areas (RCAs). Please check the DFO website 
referenced at the bottom of this notice for further information.

Area 111 and Subareas 11-1, 11-2 and 12-14 (Portion of Queen Charlotte Sound):

Effective 00:01 hours June 1 until 23:59 hours July 31, 2020 you may retain two 
(2) Coho per day (hatchery marked or unmarked).

Effective 00:01 hours August 1 until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020, you may retain two (2) Coho per day, of which only one (1) may be unmarked.

Subareas 11-3 to 11-10 (Inside Nakwakto Rapids):
Effective 00:01 hours April 1, 2020, until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020, you may retain two (2) Coho per day (Hatchery marked or unmarked).

Subareas 12-3 to 12-13, 12-15, 12-16 (except for the Hardy Bay portion described separately below) 12-17 to 12-19 and 12-21 to 12-23:
Effective 00:01 hours June 1 until 23:59 hours July 31, 2020 you may retain two (2) Coho per day, of which only one (1) may be unmarked.

Portion of Area 12-16 (Hardy Bay):

Effective 00:01 hours August 1 until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020, in that portion of Subarea 12-16 (Hardy Bay, inside of line from Duval Point to Daphne 
Point) you may retain four (4) hatchery marked Coho per day.

Subareas 12-26 to 12-48 (Portion of the Mainland Inlets):

Effective June 1 until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020 you may retain two (2) Coho per day, of which only one (1) may be unmarked.

Subareas 13-20, 13-21, a portion of 13-22 (East Side of Stuart Island and a portion of Bute Inlet):

Effective 00:01 hours August 1 until 23:59 hours September 15, 2020, in Subareas 13-20, 13-21 and that portion of Subarea 13-22 (described as those waters in Bute 
Inlet from the RCA boundary sign at Littleton Point across to the opposite shore at 50 degrees 49.900' N and 124 degrees 51.6290' W) you may retain two 
(2) Coho per day, of which only one (1) may be unmarked.

Portion of Subarea 14-11 (Baynes Sound):

Effective 00:01 hours September 1 until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020 in that portion of Subarea 14-11 Baynes Sound inside a line from the Cape Lazo Light, then to the 
P-54 Bell Buoy on Comox Bar, then to Longbeak Point, then to the mouth of Hart (Washer) Creek, you may retain two (2) Coho per day, of which only one (1) may be 
unmarked.

Portion of Subarea 15-1 (Lang Creek):

Effective 00:01 hours August 15 until 23:59 hours October 15, 2020 in that portion of Subarea 15-1 east of a line from Albion Point (locally known as 
Black Point) to Scotchfir Point, you may retain two (2) Coho per day (hatchery marked or unmarked).

Subarea 16-5 and Portion of Subarea 16-6 (Sechelt Inlet and Porpoise Bay):

Effective 00:01 hours June 1 until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020, in Subarea 
16-5 and a portion of Subarea 16-6 (Sechelt Inlet and Porpoise Bay - southerly of a line from Nine Mile Point true west to a boundary sign on the opposite shore) you 
may retain four (4) Coho per day (hatchery marked or unmarked).

Portion of Subarea 18-8 (Separation Point):

Effective 00:01 hours November 1 until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020, in that portion of Subarea 18-8, inside of a line between Separation Point and Cherry 
Point, you may retain two (2) Coho per day (hatchery marked or unmarked).

No salmon fishing - Portions of Subareas 18-2, 18-4, 18-5, 18-9 - dates to be announced in June

A separate Variation Order and Fishery Notice will be issued with detailed information on the duration and description of these measures.

Area 19:

Effective 00:01 hours October 1 until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020, in Area 
19, you may retain two (2) Coho per day, of which only one (1) may be unmarked.

Subarea 20-2 and portion of Subarea 20-1 (Port San Juan Light):

Effective 00:01 hours September 5 until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020 in 
Subarea 20-2, and a portion of Subarea 20-1 shoreward of a line between a square white boundary sign at Owen Point, the Port San Juan Light and Whistle Buoy, and San 
Juan Point, you may retain four (4) Coho per day, of which only two (2) may be unmarked.

Portion of Subarea 20-1 (Port San Juan Light), Subareas 20-3 to 20-7:

Effective 00:01 hours October 1 until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020 in that portion of Subarea 20-1 (seaward of a line between a square white boundary sign at Owen 
Point, the Port San Juan Light and Whistle Buoy, and San Juan Point) and Subareas 20-3 to 20-7, you may retain four (4) Coho per day, of which only one (1) may be 
unmarked.

No salmon fishing - Subareas 20-3 and 20-4 - dates to be announced in June

A separate Variation Order and Fishery Notice will be issued with detailed information on the duration and description of these measures.

Portion of Subarea 29-1 (Chapman Creek):

Effective 00:01 hours September 15 until 23:59 hours December 31, 2020 in that portion of Subarea 29-1 in front of Chapman Creek of Davis Bay and Trail Bay, inside a 
half mile ribbon boundary (1/2 mile offshore), commencing from one half mile true South of the Western boundary of Snickett Park (49 degrees 
27.625'N and 123 degrees 45.903'W to one half mile true South of the marker at the entrance to the Port Stalashin Marina (49 degrees 25.875'N and 123 degrees 
42.824'W), you may retain two (2) Coho per day (hatchery marked or unmarked).

Variation Orders: 2020-RFQ-0194


Notes:

Barbless hooks are required when fishing for salmon in tidal and non-tidal waters of British Columbia.  

The term "hatchery marked" means a fish that has a healed scar in place of the adipose fin.

Sport anglers are encouraged to participate in the Salmon Sport Head Recovery program by labeling and submitting heads from adipose fin-clipped Chinook and Coho 
Salmon. Recovery of coded-wire tags provides critical information for coast-wide stock assessment. Contact the Salmon Sport Head Recovery Program toll free at 1-866-
483-9994 for further information.

Rockfish Conservation Areas (RCAs) are currently in effect and are closed to all fin-fishing. Descriptions of RCAs, other closures such as finfish closed areas and 
salmon non-retention areas and other recreational fishing information can be found on the Internet at:

www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recfish

Did you witness suspicious fishing activity or a violation?  If so, please call the Fisheries and Ocean Canada 24-hour toll free Observe, Record, Report line at 1-800-
465-4336 or by email at DFO.ORR-ONS.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

For the 24 hour recorded opening and closure line, call toll free at 
1-866-431-FISH (3474).

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Erika Watkins, ECVI Recreational Fisheries Manager, Erika.Watkins@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN0492

Subject:
FN0476-General Information: Information for BC Recreational Fishers on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) - Update

As Canadians continue to adjust with life under Covid-19 conditions, recreational fishers are reminded to follow the guidelines set out by Public Health Officials when 
taking part in recreational fishing activities in British Columbia waters to help stop the spread of Covid-19. The Public Health Officer of British Columbia has asked 
British Columbians to limit non-essential travel within the province, especially to smaller communities. Consistent with the Orders and Guidance for Fishing and 
Hunting from the Public Health Officer of British Columbia, fishers are expected to only fish in their local area. 

Fishers should also be aware that many coastal communities in BC have closed access and services to visitors to help protect their residents. Access to fuel, supplies 
and other services in these communities may not be available.

Recreational fishers should be vigilant to follow the general recommendations from the Government of Canada for the Canadian public, see official advice on the 
Coronavirus (COVID-19) page https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html or call the information line at 1-833-784-4397 

Updates and changes that were recently announced by the Province of British Columbia regarding recreational fishing in BC at the following webpage:  
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/sports-culture/recreation/fishing-hunting/fishing-and-hunting-covid-19-updates .

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is keeping the health and well-being of all Canadians in mind as we work together in an effort to slow the spread of the new 
coronavirus (COVID-19). To slow the spread of COVID-19 we ask that recreational fishers keep a physical distance between each other. Physical (social) distancing is 
proven to be one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of illness during an outbreak.

DFO's Conservation and Protection Program continues to provide a critical function in the Federal Government's management of Canada's marine resources. Regular 
integrated patrols by fishery officers on land, sea and air are ongoing.  

Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard is committed to supporting our fisheries and aquaculture industry during these difficult times. The Government of Canada 
is taking the necessary steps to keep you informed of the latest developments.


FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Greg Hornby, A/Regional Recreational Fisheries Coordinator, Greg.Hornby@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

HALIBUT

Effective March 1, 2020 until further notice:

- The maximum length for halibut is 126 cm (97 cm head-off).
- The daily limit for halibut is one (1).
- The possession limit for halibut is either of:
---- one (1) halibut measuring 90 cm to 126 cm in length (69 cm to 97 cm head-off), OR
---- two (2) halibut, each measuring under 90 cm in length (69 cm head-off).
- The annual limit is six (6) halibut per licence holder per licence year, as set out on the 2019/2020 & 2020/21 Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence.
- All halibut retained by the licence holder between March 1, 2020 and March 31, 2020 shall be immediately recorded in ink on the 2019/2020 Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence. The area from which each halibut is caught and its head-on length shall immediately be recorded on the licence.
- All halibut retained by the licence holder between April 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021 shall be immediately recorded in ink on the 2020/2021 Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence. The area from which each halibut is caught and its head-on length shall immediately be recorded on the licence
- Head-off measurements are made from the base of the pectoral fin at its most forward point to the extreme end of the middle of the tail.

The exceptions to these openings are:

Areas 121:

No person shall fish for or retain halibut, rockfish and lingcod in Area 121 outside the 12 nautical mile limit seaward of a line that begins at 48 degrees 34.000 minutes and 125 degrees 17.386 minutes W and continues south easterly at a bearing of 116 degrees True to a point at 48 degrees 28.327 minutes and 125 degrees 01.687 minutes W.

 

Area 121:

Closed to all finfish, year round in the waters of Swiftsure Bank, inside a line from 48 degrees 34.00 minutes N and 125 degrees 06.00 minutes W, thence to 48 degrees 34.00 minutes N and 124 degrees 54.20 minutes W, thence to 48 degrees 29.62 minutes N and 124 degrees 43.40 minutes W, thence following the International Boundary between Canada and the U.S. to 48 degrees 29.55 minutes N and 124 degrees 56.20 minutes W, thence in a straight line to the point of

commencement. 

Variation Orders 2020-RCT-062 (Close Time) and 2020-RFQ-63 (Quota)

Non-residents of Canada wishing to fish for and retain halibut in Management

Areas 121, 23 and 123 must purchase an electronic licence through a Canadian

Independent Access Provider (IAP). Find an IAP location from our web page: http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/licence-permis/iap-fai-eng.html

Note: Rockfish Conservation Area (RCA) and Glass Sponge Reef (GSR) closures remain in effect - refer to the following web pages for descriptions: 

1)RCAs- http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/restricted-restreint-eng.html#rca

2)GSRs- http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/restricted-restreint-eng.html#sponge

 

Anglers are reminded of the mandatory condition of licence for the release of rockfish; all anglers in vessels shall immediately return all rockfish that are not being retained to the water and to a similar depth from which they were caught by use of an inverted weighted barbless hook or other purpose-built descender device.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Contacts: Brad Beaith (South Coast - WCVI) – (250)756-7190, Erika Watkins (South Coast- ECVI)  - (250)286-5882, Darren Chow (North Coast) – (250)627-3441, Greg Hornby (Regional Recreational Coordinator) - (250)286-5886

Fisheries and Oceans Canada Operations Center - FN0156

Sent February 25, 2020 at 10:03

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Sooke

Overall, chinook fishing was SLOW but many anglers did catch their one per day allowed chinook. Most of the chinooks caught weighed from 10-14 lbs but there were some in the 77-80 cm size range. Coho fishing has DROPPED OFF in Juan de Fuca Strait.  Anchovies and herring were the best baits for all salmon this past week. Good choices for teaser head colors are Chartreuse, Purple Haze and Bloody Nose. Spoons such as Skinny G’s, Wee G’s, Coho Killers and 4″ Coyote spoons have been good for springs. AP Tackleworks spoons have also been good in green/yellow. Glow/Green. Popular flashers have been Jelly Fish Glow, The Bon Chovy, the Madi and the Super Betsey. Halibut fishing was FAIR. Lingcod anglers have had FAIR results. Crabbing has been FAIR in the basin, but we’ve heard of some traps disappearing.

Port Renfrew

Port Renfrew is open for business once again and fishing charters are operating. Salmon fishing has been EXCELLENT. Halibut fishing has been GOOD. If you would like to catch some fish, give us a call.

Becher Bay

Angling effort really picked up on Saturday because of the opening for chinooks. It was SLOW but some nice springs were caught, nevertheless. The heaviest one was a 19 lb spring that was 80 cm right on the button. Chinook fishing in the small open retention area in during the week was SPOTTY, but we do know of a 16 .2 lb spring caught there on Friday. The Head and the Trap Shack were the most productive areas for springs. There were lots of small jack springs around so bigger baits were in order. Anglers fishing for coho were finding the action much SLOWER than in previous weeks. Anchovies are now the most popular bait and good colours for teaser heads were Chartreuse, Mint Pearl and Bloody Nose. Good spoons for chinooks have been Skinny G’s, Coho Killers and Coyotes with green in the colour mix.  The GIBBS Highliner Guide Series Outfitters, the Bon Chovy, and Gold Fever Hot Spot flashers had been working well. Halibut fishing has been FAIR for those travelling over to the East Race. Crabbing in the bay has been SLOW in the bay.

 

Pedder Bay

Angling effort really picked up on Saturday because of the opening for chinooks. It was SLOW fishing, but some legal springs were caught. As usual, the mouth of the bay and Whirl Bay were the best spots to fish. Coho fishing has SLOWED DOWN.   Only a few coho are being caught in the deep waters of the fishing lanes. Anchovies and herring were the best baits for salmon this past week. Good choices for teaser head colors were Chartreuse, UV Green and Bloody Nose. Spoons have also been very effective with Skinny G’s, Wee G’s and AP Tackleworks spoons catching fish. Green and glow or green and gold have been the best color combinations. Halibut fishing was FAIR The areas near William Head, Albert Head, and the 27 Fathom Reef have produced the most halibut recently.. A few lingcod and rockfish were reported. Crabbing has been FAIR.

Victoria

Angling effort really picked up on Saturday because of the opening for chinooks. It was SLOW for most anglers. That said, we heard that those fishing for the first hour of daylight did well on Saturday morning, but really dropped off by 6 AM. Coho fishing was SLOW out by Constance Bank and towards the US border. Chinook fishing has been SLOWER for those doing catch and release along the waterfront as well anchovies and herring have been great and have taken over as the bait of choice later this week. Good choices for teaser head colors are Chartreuse, UV Green and Bloody Nose.  Spoons had been working very well with Skinny G’s and Coho Killers in Irish Cream, Outfitters and AP Tackleworks 3” herring spoon good choices.. Fishing was FAIR for halibut at Constance Bank Halibut fishing was FAIR and we did hear of a 121 cm, 51 lb halibut and a 110 cm 41 lb halibut caught Friday. Most of the halibut caught have been from 15 to 30 lbs in size. Anglers have reported that the dogfish seem to have migrated out of the area. Lingcod and rockfish fishing has been OKAY. Crabbing has been FAIR.

Oak Bay

Fishing for salmon has been SLOW on the Flats this past week.  In fact, we haven’t heard of anyone having any luck there. Small spoons and squirts have been the best lures in this area. Halibut fishing was FAIR in Oak Bay. Crabbing has been FAIR off Willows Beach.

Sidney

Fishing for chinooks was SLOW this past week, but very few anglers are fishing. We’ve heard of springs being caught in previous weeks off, Coal Island, Sidney Spit and Hambley Point in previous weeks. Halibut fishing was SLOW this past week. Crabbing has been SLOW and there are lots of traps out by Sidney Spit.

Halibut

 

Halibut fishing has been FAIR. The dogfish have migrated  and are not as big a problem as they were before.

Freshwater Report

Freshwater Overview

Fishing has been FAIR for trout and EXCELLENT for bass.

Notices

 

 

Cowichan River

The river is closed for fishing until September.

Trout

Trout fishing has been FAIR at local lakes. Shore anglers are catching trout on Powerbait, Gulp Eggs, and worms while fishing close to the bottom. Pink, Chartreuse and Fluorescent Yellow have been good choices recently for Powerbait. Fly anglers are mostly fishing Wooly Buggers, Leeches and Chironomid patterns. Trollers are catching the most trout with worms fished on Gibbs Wedding Bands behind Gang Trolls. Tomic Plugs in 2”-3” sizes have also been working well for trout.

Here is the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC spring stocking report for the Greater Victoria area. On May 5th, Langford Lake stocked with 1,250 catchable rainbows with an average size of 242.59 grams. On April 22nd. Langford Lake received 1,000 trout, Colwood Lake 200 trout and IDA Anne Lake 2450 trout averaging 216.6 grams in size. On April 21st, Matheson, Glen and Kemp Lakes received 500 trout and Lookout Lake 250 trout averaging 226.79 grams in size. On April 20th, Prospect and Elk Lakes were stocked with 2,000 catchable rainbows with an average size of 227.44 grams. On April 19th, Prospect Lake was stocked with 2,000 catchable rainbows, Spectacle Lake with 1,000 catchable rainbows, and Glen Lake with 500 catchable rainbows with an average size of 203.5 grams. On April 14th, Lookout Lake was stocked with 500 catchable rainbows with an average size of 236.3 grams.  On April 8th, Elk Lake was stocked with 1,000 catchable rainbows and Durrance Lake with 500 catchable rainbows averaging 207.07grams in size. On April 7th, both Elk and Thetis Lakes were stocked with 2,000 catchable rainbows averaging 210.27 grams in size. On March 18th, Langford Lake received 2,000 trout averaging 245 grams in size. On March 13th, Dougan Lake received Lake received 1,500 trout averaging 238.14 grams in size. On March 12th, Durrance Lake received 1,500 trout averaging 223.4 1 grams in size. On March 5th, Ida Anne Lake received 200 trout and Colwood Lake received 50 trout averaging 249.85 grams in size. On March 4th, Matheson and Kemp Lakes received 500 trout and Lookout Lake 250 trout averaging 239.53 grams in size. On March 3rd, Elk Lake was stocked with 2,000 catchable rainbows averaging 232.89 grams in size.

 To find out about fish stockings all over the Island and the province, as well as the different strains being released, click on the link http://www.gofishbc.com/Stocked-Fish.aspx 

Bass

Bass fishing is EXCELLENT. Lots of bass are being caught and some large ones too. Yum Dingers, Tubes and other soft plastics have been highly effective. Crankbaits and surface lures have also worked. Langford Lake, Shawnigan Lake, Prospect Lake and Elk and Beaver Lakes are the best local bass lakes.  Outside of Victoria, St. Mary’s Lake on Salt Spring Island and Quennell Lake are also great lakes for bass fishing.

Freshwater Notable Catches

Please send photos (in jpeg format) with name(s) and a description of your notable catch to our email fishingreports@fishingvictoria.com

 

Fish Tip of the Week

Measure your fish on a flat surface! With slot size requirements for halibut and salmon, be sure that your fish is the correct length. If you use a tape measure and run it over the side of the fish, the fish will measure longer than it actual length, due to the curvature of the tape. Instead, place the fish on a flat surface and take a measurement of the length of the flat surface covered by the fish.

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