Strong winds have been relentless this spring at our off-shore fishing grounds, forcing us to forage in the usual late-season, inshore areas. When the winds subside and we are able to get outside the fishing has been steady and consistent for spring salmon averaging 16 to 24 pounds. Best results at this time of year are near the bottom in 85 to 115 feet of water, with anchovies and cuttlefish hoochies providing the most action. Bottom fish are readily available as there has been no pressure on them for the last 8 months; lingcod, rockfish, yellow eye, and halibut have been easy to locate and target. Try fishing in the 130 to 160 foot range with any kind of structure and you'll be guaranteed success!
Coho averaging 6 to 7 pounds have been showing up in sporadic schools for the past week; and are mostly around the 80 to 90 foot depth range. True to their reputation they will hit anything they can fit in their mouths …… hoochies, anchovies, smaller spoons, and plugs. I like to bump up the speed when solely targeting Coho to 3.5 to 4.2 mph speed-over-ground on the GPS. Be sure to check local regulations before harvesting Coho on the west coast of Vancouver Island.
Prawning in Nootka Sound this season has been slower than the past 5 seasons, however if you are willing to work your gear you'll eventually find small pockets of nice sized spot prawns. The commercial boats are now closed, but sport fishing opportunities are still open. Crabbing has been good in the estuaries with good food sources and lots of eel grass; 65 to 85 feet have been the desirable depths for the best results.
