Welcome to the 2018 saltwater fishing season in Sooke.
Sooke has been recognized by the Department Fisheries and Oceans and fishers all over the Island as a fishing community giving back to the resource through special projects, community events and resource management.
These events are successful with the support of the business community funding events like fishing derbies which have been instrumental in bringing attention to the condition of the saltwater fishery in the Salish Sea.
Although we have started to get traction in this area, we still have along way to go in helping the salmon returns grow.
Locally, we have the Sooke Salmon Enhancement Society, the Charters Creek Juan De Fuca Restoration Society and South Vancouver Island Anglers Coalition all working towards increasing the numbers of salmon returning to the Sooke River and its tributaries.
In the next couple of weeks some important, fun events are happening, where anyone can find out more about these groups, and how to support the local sport fishery.
First off the Sooke Saltwater Series is crowning its top fishers of the 2017 season with trophies, cash, prizes, and great food and drink at Buffy’s Pub on Jan. 13, starting at 5 p.m. Come and see thousands of dollars awarded in prize money and donated to the various community charities supporting salmon enhancement.
Next on Jan. 14 is the Winter Trotac Fishing Derby, all funds going to salmon enhancement efforts.
Later in the month on Jan. 17, the South Vancouver Island Anglers Coalition is having an important meeting at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel by Costco at 7 p.m. This group will be hosting an open discussion on the many factors affecting the salmon runs in the Strait of Juan De Fuca, and some of the ways we may be able to make a difference.
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Ron Neitsch is the owner/operator of 2 Reel Fishing Adventures, based in Sooke.