British Columbia is renowned for its salmon fishing, both in freshwater and saltwater. With its diverse coastal waters, the region is home to five main types of Pacific salmon: Chinook, Chum, Sockeye, Coho, and Pink. In this guide, we will explore each species and provide tips on how to catch and prepare them.
Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon, also known as king or spring salmon, are the largest and rarest of the Pacific salmon. They can weigh upwards of 50 kg and measure over 40 inches long. Chinook salmon are highly sought after by anglers due to their size, strength, and delicious taste. They are often grilled or prepared as smoked salmon.
To catch Chinook salmon, it is best to fish from a boat or yacht between May and September using baitfish like herring or anchovies. Lure casting, trolling, and float fishing are common methods used. Remember to adhere to the fishing regulations and log each catch.
Chum Salmon
Chum Salmon, also known as dog salmon, are the second largest of the Pacific salmon. They can be identified by the dark horizontal stripe running down their sides. Chum salmon have large pupils, white jaws, and a forked, spotted tail. While not as tasty as other Pacific salmon, they are abundant and strong.
Chum salmon can be caught in saltwater before October, when they start migrating back to freshwater. They are easier to catch than to reel in, so a heavier rod, reel, and line are recommended. Techniques like drift fishing with a float, spinning with spoons or spinners, or trolling in the ocean using hootchies can be effective.
Sockeye Salmon
Sockeye Salmon, also known as red salmon, are medium-sized silver/blue salmon with small black speckles on their bodies. When they migrate back to their home streams, their bodies turn reddish with bright green heads. Sockeye salmon have pink gums, large eyes, and slightly forked tails without spots.
The sockeye salmon fishing season in the Vancouver Island region is usually from July to early September. Trolling for sockeye in the Georgia Strait and the mouth of the Fraser River using colourful hootchies or spoons can yield great results.
Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon, also known as silvers or bluebacks, are the most populous of the Pacific salmon. They stay a chrome colour for most of their lives and have white mouths and gums with a squared tail. Coho salmon are a favourite among anglers due to their taste and acrobatic skills.
Coho salmon can be targeted in both ocean and rivers. They are often found in kelp beds, making trolling, spincasting, mooching, flyfishing, and barfishing effective techniques. Silver or copper spoons and spinners are recommended lures.
Pink Salmon
Pink Salmon are the smallest of the five Pacific salmon, weighing between 4-7 lbs each. They have a nice pink flesh and are aptly named. Male pinks have a large, humped back and oval black spots on their backs. Pink salmon are popular among beginners as they readily bite at various lures and flies.
Pink salmon fishing season is from July to September. A lightweight fishing rod and line, along with any colourful artificial lure, are all that is needed to catch them.
BC smoked salmon is a delicacy that can be enjoyed by anglers and seafood enthusiasts alike. Whether you're targeting Chinook, Chum, Sockeye, Coho, or Pink salmon, British Columbia's coastal waters offer ample opportunities for a successful fishing trip. Remember to familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations and enjoy the experience of catching and preparing these delicious Pacific salmon.
- Q: What is the best time to fish for BC smoked salmon?
- A: The best time to fish for BC smoked salmon varies depending on the species. Chinook salmon are best caught between May and September, while Chum salmon can be caught in saltwater before October. Sockeye salmon fishing season is usually from July to early September. Coho salmon can be targeted throughout the year, and Pink salmon fishing season is from July to September.
- Q: What are the recommended techniques for catching BC smoked salmon?
- A: The recommended techniques for catching BC smoked salmon include trolling, spincasting, mooching, flyfishing, and barfishing. Each species may have its own preferences, so it's best to experiment with different techniques and lures.
- Q: How should I prepare BC smoked salmon?
- A: BC smoked salmon can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, smoking, or eating raw as sushi or in a salmon poke bowl. There are numerous recipes available online that showcase the versatility of BC smoked salmon.
References:
- Pacific Salmon Foundation's salmon poster: [link]
- Provincial government's list of the most common sport fish in BC: [link]
- Freshwater and saltwater fishing regulations by the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO): [link]
- Great salmon recipe suggestions: [link]
If you're looking for a new boat or yacht for salmon fishing in BC, Van Isle Marina offers a wide range of yacht services and yachts for sale. Visit us at 2320 Harbour Road in Sidney, British Columbia near Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal or check out our selection online.
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