The big chinooks are showing up just in time for the grandaddy of all salmon derbies — the Juan de Fuca Salmon Derby.
Nice catches in the 30- pound range are being reported at all local fishing hot spots. Did a group charter of seven boats out of Sooke Harbour Marina and every boat showed their clients from Vancouver what the Sooke chinook fishery is all about.
With a predicted good run of bigger fish this year it should take a fish in the high 30s or 40 pound range to take top spot of $30,000, the first prize in the derby.
Starting Saturday, June 18, anglers can take one wild chinook any size, as well as one under the 67cm, with a minimum size of 45cm.
The Port Renfrew chinook fishery is in full swing with good fishing on the beach at Camper Creek where there was a 50, 48 and Bill’s 46 last week alone.
The offshore is good as well with limit catches up to 25 pounds out at the Chicken Ranch.
Halibut has been strong at the north east corner and the 170.
Crabbing is on fire – lots of nice size keepers and at 10 bucks a pound at the fish store it’s good value.
Until next time…
Keep your rod tip up!
Kiwi Magic
If you want to catch a big chinook call 250-686-0738
