Vancouver Island is located off the west coast of British Columbia. Its western shore borders the Pacific Ocean while the Strait of Georgia winds its way along Vancouver Island’s eastern shore. Vancouver Island is home to Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia. It also features the cities of Nanaimo and Port Alberni. The island can be reached by boat, seaplane, plane or ferry. Ferries from Vancouver travel to Nanaimo and Victoria several times each day. There are also ferries from Vancouver Island to some of the 200 Gulf Islands located between Vancouver Island and the mainland.
Vancouver Island offers some of the best salmon and halibut fishing in the world, and halibut fishing has been rising in popularity in the region. If you’re planning a halibut fishing trip in this region, you will want to head to the west coast of Vancouver Island.
Halibut Fishing
The best halibut fishing on Vancouver Island is available from Vancouver Island’s western or northern shores. Common destinations for halibut fishing include Tofino, Ucluelet and Port Hardy. People also opt to fish near Victoria, where the Georgia Strait flows into the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
It is important to fish with a knowledgeable guide familiar with the waterways. The Strait of Juan de Fuca, for example, is home to the boundary between the United States and Canada. You will need a US fishing license if you cross the border. There are also other regulations that apply to different waterways that fishermen must follow.
Where To Stay
You can access the best Vancouver Island fishing by staying at an all-inclusive fishing lodge. Rates include accommodation, food, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks. They also include the use of fishing boats, fuel, rods, and tackle. It’s typical for your package price to include up to 12 hours of guided fishing for a two-night stay. Fish processing is also included in the price and the lodges usually include transportation to and from the airport. You will be responsible for the cost of any excursions that are not part of your package.
Fishing Licenses
You must have a saltwater fishing license in order to fish on the BC coast. Saltwater fishing licenses are provided by the provincial government and can be purchased on the BC government website. You can opt to buy a license that is good for one day, three days, five days, or a year based on your needs. The cost of the license depends on the length of time it is valid for and whether or not you are a Canadian resident. Non-residents pay a higher fee for their fishing licenses.
Regulations
Vancouver Island has specific fishing guidelines fishermen must follow. These guidelines specify which bodies of water people can and can not fish in. Some waterways restrict the type of fishing people can engage in or the use of power boats. Other areas limit fishermen to the use of boats with electric motors. There are also regulations about the volume and size of catch permitted in some lakes and rivers. It is important to familiarize yourself with the regulations before your fishing trip to ensure you comply with all guidelines.
About Halibut
Commercial fishermen also catch halibut. A full-sized halibut can reach eight feet in length and weigh up to 500 pounds. You will need to research halibut before you depart and ensure you have the right equipment to safely catch and secure halibut.
Other Restrictions
British Columbia does not permit fishermen to use chum to attract fish. It also governs the use of live bait. It is possible to use roe, although the amount is regulated. Fishermen are prohibited from using finfish when fishing on Vancouver Island. You can use artificial squid to fish for halibut.
Other Activities
Nature lovers may want to supplement their fishing time with local tours and activities. Tofino, Ucluelet and Victoria all offer whale watching tours. Vancouver Island is also home to the West Coast Trail, which is a hiking trail that stretches through miles of coastal forests.
Tofino and Ucluelet offer opportunities to tour sea caves or go surfing. Wildlife tours on Vancouver Island provide guests with a chance to see bears, birds, and sea otters. Other popular activities include kayaking and surfing.
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