2013 Salmon Fishing Report
Tyler Hunt with a 44 pound Tyee - September 4, 2013.
Westview Marina & Lodge
It is more than fair to say that the 2013 season had the largest Chinook and Coho salmon runs since the 1990s.
Esperanza Inlet & Nootka Sound were plugged with fish from late May right through to late September. It all started with the American Columbia River Chinook (Springs/Kings). These fish were plentiful at the mouth of both Inlets feeding heavily on sand lances (needle fish). That is why white and glow needle fish Hoochie, Coho Killer lures and 4.5/5in anchovies worked so well in the early to mid-season. Thing are looking up for another great season for these USA fish again.
The Washington/Oregon Departments of Fisheries reported that 1.1million Chinook Salmon returned through the Bonneville dam on the Columbia River. That was the largest return since 1938, and the 2014 Chinook forecast is even larger.
Last year our Department of Fisheries under-estimated our local West Coast Vancouver Island (WCVI) Chinook returning stocks, in particular the Conuma River Hatchery run. The projections were for 15,000 adult Chinook to return - the final count was 60,000+. WCVI Chinook abundance is projected to be slightly up this season. That’s all good news for the mid-season July/August Chinook fishing.
The largest run of Coho (Silvers) Salmon in 15 years was also forecast to come to our area last season. It was, in fact, the best Coho fishing and largest run ever. On June 1, limits were increased to 4 per day, 8 possession. It will be the same this year on limits and the run of Coho is expected to be larger.
We Have Upgraded our Kayak Fleet!
We still have our tandem Necky ocean kayaks which are amazing for viewing wildlife in the local estuary with a friend or going on an island hopping adventure in the Nuchatlitz Park. These Neckys have lots of storage space and are incredibly stable.
New for 2014, we have added two XO11 Point 65n single Kayaks to our fleet! These are top of the line polyethylene kayaks with all the bells and whistles, from adjustable skegs for stability, to large watertight storage spaces for your gear. Lightweight and durable, these new additions are great for exploring the local waters, photography, and even fishing!
DISCOUNTS ON RESERVATIONS
If you make and pay for your reservation* between now and February 28, 2014 you will receive a 10% discount. For those of you who are paying in US dollars you will receive another 9% because of the exchange rate* US to CA. Make your reservations today and take advantage of the discount and get the dates you want. (Reservations include moorage, lodging, meal packages, fishing & eco charters, U-drive rental boat charters & kayak rentals.)
*US to CA exchange vary daily. You will receive the exchange discount on the date which you make the reservation. E-mail: info@westviewmarina.com
www.westviewmarina.com toll-free 1-800-992-3252