Excellent salmon and halibut fishing, and breathtaking scenery in Sooke. Tory Howe from Goin Coastal Fishing Charters tells us “The Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the Sooke Harbour is friendly water,” he adds. “There aren’t too many people who get seasick.” Fishing is great year-round in this area but winter salmon fishing can be particularly productive. Bottom fishign for halibut and ling cod is popular as well as trapping dungeness crab. Crab traps can be purchased or rented at the Sooke Harbour. There are several available fishing charters with reasonable rates that provide you with everything you need for a successful day on the water. The fishing is non-stop action, too. Howe tells of a time when he was guiding a couple who were out for halibut. While they waited for the tide to be right, they decided to take a chance on some chinook, resulting in an epic 15 minute battle with a forty pound salmon. “Our fish totes are often full of big fish. When the bite goes off you get carried away, and we have to keep recounting to make sure we’re staying in our limits!” Prestige Hotels sponsors the Sooke Saltwater Series, a combined salmon and halibut tournament. For $150, you can compete in three derbies. Points are awarded, with several chances to score big and win huge prizes. Al Kennedy from Reel Excitement Charters says, “Even if you don’t win the halibut derby, you’ve got two more chances to win overall”. Jesse Legg, from Sea Leggs Fishing Adventures, adds that the derby is also a chance to do some good. “At the end of each derby, if you buy a ticket and donate a fish, you win a prize. The fish are vacuum sealed and donated to a local shelter for food. Everyone wins.” The Saltwater Series begins with the Halibut Derby in May, followed by the Coho Derby in October, and the Boxing Day Derby in December. Prestige Oceanfront Resort hosts a reception at the end of each derby. See more at sookesaltwaterseries.ca. Recent closures and restrictions have been put in place for the Sooke area. Make sure you are fully informed of the current regulations before heading out on the water. If you are not from the area, we strongly encourage hiring a guide to increase your chances of success, and to make sure that you are in compliance with current regulations.

I live to fish … 60 pound halibut caught off the coast near Sooke, Vancouver Island A gorgeous June day on the Pacific Ocean is where I caught my first halibut. Returning to the island brings many fishing trips, that are ingrained in my memory. My friend and I leave at the wee hours in anticipation of a successful day, but none would be as memorable as this day. When I first got the tug on my line, I felt a rush of excitement that sent an unexplainable energy through my body. Winning the battle between fish and man, I am grateful for the day.