Ron Neitsch
Contributed
Springtime fishing is off to a great start in Sooke.
Local fishers have found more larger chinook salmon and halibut showing up in the last week, than has been reported so far this year in local waters.
Larger springs are hooked out front of the Sooke harbour mouth and Otter Point, so far still at the deeper depths of 120 to 150 feet of water with the gear near the bottom.
Gibbs small white spoons like the Skinny G and G Force are working well. Lengthen the leaders out to four or five feet.
These fish are hitting soft because of the depth, but once they’re on, they are fighting hard and heavy.
Halibut fishing has improved a lot with successful boats anchoring up deeper, 300 to 400 feet of water.Herring, tuna, mackerel, and salmon bellies have been great baits for these fish.
At these depths its important to hit the right tide and ensure your anchor set up is long enough to safely anchor.
Two derbies coming up: Island Outfitters’ Just for The Halibut Derby on April 21 and 22, and the Sooke Saltwater Series Sooke Halibut Derby on May 5 and 6.
•••
Ron Neitsch is the owner of 2 Reel Fishing Adventures, based in Sooke.
