For Port Renfrew Marina mid September Chinook fishing continues strong. Even though there us very little pressure, those targeting the springs are catching them in all the regular spots with water by Hammond Rocks giving up the bigger ones. With the predicted rain for the next week the Chinook may start their journey up the rivers. It will be a wait and see issue, if the rain isn't too hard we may have a better chance to catch a big one. There are a few big whites showing. Halibut fishing on the anchor has turned on again. September is usually a very good month for the flatties. Salmon bellies and grubs have been working but spoons could be the ticket if the currant is running fairly fast. Halibut fishing was extended until Sept.18th until further notice by the DFO. We haven't heard anything about any changes so far but check in at the office if you are unsure.
Coho fishing is fantastic! It is still early for the big Northerns a;though the odd 15 to 17 pounder has been weighed in. Off shore you will have to catch a lot of fish to get your hatcheries. Yellow or green hoochies, coyote spoons, Coho killers and tiny strip baitrix are all hot lures. Early day depths are 35 to 60 feet going deeper later in the day. Right now you are allowed 2 hatchery Coho and 2 wild IF they are caught inside the bay. Wild Coho opens outside the bay on Oct.1st.
If you see Coho jumping at the river mouth, give it a try in the very shallow water, 3 to 10 feet deep. Find and stay with the jumpers.
Notable catches:
- Jim Morris 30
- Ken Gillard 30
Port Renfrew Marina's annual Labor Day Derby has now passed and we are still waiting on a couple of payments for live auction items but the total tally is looking to be near $18,000.00. We will have a precise amount in a few days hopefully. What a great fundraiser, thanks go out to all who donated and participated to help out the local hatchery. Maurice Trembley spoke at the derby and explained that a good portion of the money is going towards completing a blocking fence in the San Juan river.It is great to know that they use the money wisely!
Upcoming Event: So soon the annual Coho Derby will be happening. "The Winner Take All" derby is our most popular derby and this year is looking to be a banner year for Coho as there seems to be no lack of them around. The derby is October 5th and 6th so wild will be open outside the bay. Hopefully the big Northerns will be here a plenty and some lucky person will catch one and win the pot! Again of the $25.00 a rod ticket $5.00 of each one will go to the hatchery. Please be advised: We are a cash business and you will need to bring cash with you to buy your tickets, etc.
Important News: On October 13th Port Renfrew Marina will be closing for the season. It is very important and the customers responsibility to know this date and that you come by on or before then and remove your boat and unit, otherwise storage fees will apply. If you would like to do storage please speak to someone in the office.
Bud & Rex