Originally Posted by harper44
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Hi all,
Well it’s a wrap!!! The season is coming to an end with Big Bear putting the cubs away for another winter of hibernation. To say the least, it was another banner season for the crew. Limits of salmon, halibut and ground fish blessed the guests all summer long.
With the end of the season comes the 3rd Annual Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby. This year proved to be a test of will and skill combined. Fishing was not what it was last year, but that only proves that working harder would bring that lucky angler the top prize and bragging rights. It just so happens that Big Bear 1 was up to the test and the crew was all over it. Captained by our head guide Darren Dickenson, Mike Tait of Port Coquitlam, Ken McPhee of Vancouver and Emily Nelson of Ucluelet teamed up to show the other anglers just how they were going to take top spot in this years “FISH OFF”.
On Day 2 of the two day event at approximately 10:30 a.m. while fishing at Big Bank, the starboard rod went off and it was go time. With Mike Tait on the rod, a 15 min. battle ensued bringing the top fish to the boat. The crew new they had it. Registered, the team was able to sit back and only hope it would hold first place.
With Top Honors for a 23.13 lb. chinook going to Mike Tait of Port Coquitlam B.C., he took home the top prize of $5000.00 and a handful of other great prizes. Congratulations to Mike!!!
Fishing Report:
Fishing remains strong for Coho and Chinook out on La Perouse Bank. Limits are attainable in only a few hours if you are able to get onto the fish. Depths of 90-130 ft have been consistant. All the regular tricks are working with the flasher-coyote combo being the go to. Whole herring in a large teaser head fished above a dummy flasher has also been quite productive. Remember that there is a wild coho release in effect so try to minimize any damage to these majestic fish by releasing them as easily as possible.
There should also be numerous coho and the odd spring entering Barkley Sound and the Port Alberni Canal. Limits inside the sound and the inlet increase from two to four coho as of sept 1st. Sunny calm fall days make it a great time to get out and enjoy these silver beauties while they are still silver fresh.
Halibut fishing is now closed as of the 9th so anything incidental catches must be released until the opening that will be announced sometime in the new year.
Be sure to take care of all your gear before it is put away for the winter as to not open up the tackle boxes in the spring and find a rusty mess. The same goes for your boats, proper winterization will only make for an easier start up when next season arrives.
Until next time, keep those tips up and hooks sharp.
The Crew @ Big Bear
Mike Tait and The Winning Fish!
