Nootka Marine Adventures
Bill Sargent with nice spring caught on a 2 inch spoon
Gibran White
Salt Water
Fishing on the outside remains consistent for both Chinook and Coho, with the average Spring salmon now in the 22 to 26 pound range, and the Coho fattening up to an honest 8 to 10 pounds. Early mornings and tide changes have been the most productive as the bait is being pushed high onto the reefs causing a feeding frenzy for fish and birds. Watch for flocks of diving birds and seagulls as a dead giveaway for balls of bait fish being chased to the surface by feeding salmon down below. Small baits and lures are still the go-to magic outside as the bait fish remain on the smaller side; hootchies, anchovies, and small 3 to 4 inch spoons trolled behind flashers will get the action you’re looking for.
The inside fishery is picking up daily, with some real hogs starting to show up this last week. Areas such as Strange Island, Hoiss Point, Camel Rock, Three Bay, and Beer Can Bay are all producing in the early mornings (first light) and late afternoons/early evenings. 6” inch spoons, 5” inch Tomic plugs and anchovy and flasher are proving to be the most productive for these mature spawners.
Bottom fishing remains good outside, with many groups of anglers heading out after limiting on salmon in just a couple of days. As always, look for structure when targeting all species of ground fish, and don’t be afraid to move to different areas while dragging bait and/or jigging the vast bottom fish grounds we have to offer in Nootka Sound.
Remember to load up with cold drinks, snacks, and ice as well as lathering up with sun screen before heading out….. as the weather is just as hot as the fishing!!!
*Always be sure and check your local Salt Water Sport Fishing regulations before fishing the areas of Nootka Sound (area 25/125), as there are many different limit and harvest regulations that apply to the different sub areas that you may be fishing in.
Fresh Water
The hot weather we have been enjoying has warmed the water temperatures considerably and lowered water levels; the best opportunities are very early mornings (first light) and very late evenings; just before dark for aggressively feeding trout. Trolling and spin casting small spoons and lures, and small dry flies will all attract both Rainbows and Cutthroat.
Tight Lines, Good Luck, and Safe Fishing,
Gibran White, Onsite Manager.