Adrian O'Connor
Wow, how time flies. I am starting the move up the coast this week to put the finishing touches on the lodge for the season. The lodge will open in early June, when we know the fishing will be hot!
It’s been a great spring around Victoria with the fishing being very consistent for salmon and halibut. Salmon fishing has been remarkably good, with exception to last week when numbers slowed down a bit. Decent amounts of fish had been caught from Sheringham point out to Sydney. The Sydney derby last weekend was won with a beautiful 34 pound Chinook. What a great fish for this time of the year! Consistently we have been taking fish in the 10-15 lbs range with 23lbs being my largest so far this spring.
The expected returns for Chinook salmon along the coast are looking up. There are some elevated predictions for returning 4 and 5 year olds this coming year. The Columbia River is expecting one of its largest returns since they have been keeping track in the 30’s. What does this mean for us? In June we can expect incredible fishing from the lodge around Esperanza. I am banking on it being like 2009 when we had the hottest salmon action I have ever had at that time. It all makes sense if we are expecting 5 year returning spawner’s this season and it also indicates that there are going to be some big fish around. Not to worry if you can’t be with us in June, the entire summer should have some great fishing as we always do. That’s what makes Esperanza the incredible fishery that it is.
Halibut fishing is on the up and up as well. Our slot size limits have increased from the 126 cm fish in previous years to 133cm. This will be 10-15 pounds larger than the last 2 years. The second fish in position is also up from 83cm up to 90cm. This should put a few more pounds of this prized white meat in the freezer for everyone.
Hopefully you've already made your booking for the coming summer as we are 90% full. If not, maybe you can get into one of the few remaining spaces I have available:
In June I have two (one boat only) spots left
In July there are a couple single boat openings as well
In August the first opening is the 29th until September 4
Give me a call or drop me line for more details.
I'm currently putting the final touches on the new boat. This new vessel has twin 250 horse power 4 strokes and is going to make a great guide boat. This boat has been custom designed to guide from and is going to be very comfortable.
Looking forward to seeing the many familiar faces and to meet some new ones this coming season. For more information on this world class fishery give me a call or drop me a line anytime!
Adrian O'Connor, Owner
Reel Obsession Sport Fishing
Victoria & Zeballos, BC, Canada
1-888-855-7335