Under clear, sunny skies, commercial fishermen lined up their boats along the coast of Parksville Qualicum Beach Saturday to scoop up tonnes of small silvery fish: the herring.
The annual herring run was a big attraction as a fishery opening was called on March 3, which was blessed with warm and sunny weather.
Local residents took in the action from a variety of different spots in the area where they could get a good glimpse of the gillnetting and seining activity taking place in the water. Shutterbugs were also out in force, clicking away to capture the best shots of the day. As well, predators such as eagles, sea gulls, and sea lions were highly visible, lurking around the fishing event in the hope of snatching away some of the silvery catch.
Among those who came out to enjoy the herring run was Parksville resident Joanne Lanosky, who chose the French Creek fishing area to witness the fishermen in action. It was as close as she could get to seeing what was happening. She commented how wonderful it was to see this fishing tradition continue to thrive.
“The herring run is interesting to watch,” said Lanosky, who just moved to Parksville two years ago. “It’s nice to see that the lifestyle is continuing. We need to have a more sustainable lifestyle, including gardening, fishing, etc.”
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