Saltwater fishing in Sooke is starting to pick up.
With halibut fishing season opening on March 1, and some sunny weather, many anglers have gotten their boats ready, and headed out onto the Strait of Juan de Fuca to find some salmon, halibut and crab.
Spring salmon regulations are now in place.
These regulations allow for retention of two spring salmon per person, per day. Wild springs must be between 45 and 67 centimetres in length, while hatchery springs must be more than 45 centimetres.
Salmon fishing has been good at the Sooke harbour mouth, especially in a line south of Possession Point to 150 feet of water. Trolling glow white hootchies and small green and white spoons close to the bottom have been working well.
Halibut regulations for March allow for one halibut per person, per day which cannot exceed 133 centimetres in length. Halibut regulations are due to change April 1.
Please check the current regulations before heading out on the water by going to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans website at www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca or speak with your local tackle provider.
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Ron Neitisch is the owner of 2 Reel Fishing Adventures, based in Sooke.