Ron Neitsch
Contributed
Fishing in Sooke for spring/chinook salmon has improved greatly over the last week, trolling anglers are seeing a lot more fish in the 12- to 20-pound range.
Hotspots include Possession, Otter, and Sheringham points.
It’s time to lengthen leaders and bring the gear up higher on the downriggers – the big fish are here.
New regulations are out for June 18 to July 15 for area (20-5 Sooke).
We will be fishing a 45- to 85-centimetre slot restriction on wild spring salmon which means you will be allowed two Chinook salmon wild or hatchery per person per day between 45 and 85 centimetres long.
Only springs/chinooks with the adipose fin removed (hatchery) may be kept over 85 centimetres.
The new regulation includes area 20-4 extending the restricted zone to Sombrio Point.
An 85-centimetre spring salmon in good condition should be around 19 lbs.
The South Vancouver Island Anglers Coalition “Kiss My ... Chinook salmon derby was held last weekend with Clay Corners taking first place landing a wild 20½-pound chinook measuring just within the slot limit, netting Clay $2,000. More derby action coming soon.
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Ron Neitsch is the owner/operator of 2 Reel Fishing, based in Sooke.