A coalition that stocks the Sooke Basin is looking to lure more funding, members, and volunteers into getting hooked on the work they do.
The South Vancouver Island Anglers Coalition (SVIAC) has reeled in impressive numbers since its inception in 2013. SVIAC has reared and released 4.25 million chinook smolts into the Sooke Basin during the past seven years, with 650,000 of those in May and June.
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has recognized their efforts by authorizing SVIAC to increase their numbers from 200,000 to a million a year, said SVIAC director Gerry Morrison.
That increase, however, means more funds and more volunteers are required to cover increasing costs for upgrading equipment, maintenance and repairs, said SVIAC president Chris Bos.
“We have just over a hundred members, and we’re looking to boost that significantly,” Bos said. “We’ve had great support from the T’Sou-ke Nation from the start, and we’re thrilled they become more involved this year.
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Morrisson said an online auction to raise funds is planned for December and into the new year to address operational costs of about $65,000 a year.
“We’re lining up some great prize packages,” he added. “And we’re always looking for more volunteers.”
SVIAC is a not-for-profit angling advocacy and salmon enhancement society group whose efforts include:
• Sooke River Chinook revitalization.
• A community-based net pen project.
• Helping endangered southern resident killer whales.
The coalition also communicates with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans about fair angling opportunities and reducing unnecessary fishing restrictions.
For more information on memberships, which start at $40 a year, and upcoming events, visit anglerscoalition.com and check out their Facebook page.