Fishing Methods

Dock Fishing
The techniques you use for dock fishing will change, depending on the species you're after, but a real standby for all dock fishing is a technique known as jig fishing, or "jigging", which is particularly effective for salmon and larger bottom fish such as lingcod and rockfish.

Jig Fishing
This technique works best when you're fishing off a deeper dock. Lower your jig lure to the bottom, reel it up about 5 feet and then "jig" it by raising your rod tip about 1 foot, then quickly lowering it, allowing the lure to flutter down. Once the lure flutters, repeat the jigging process until you get a bite.

Casting and Retrieving
For salmon fishing, some anglers prefer to cast their jigs (slender, heavy spoons such as "Crocodiles" or spinners such as the Mepps or Metric) out and then retrieve the lure with a jigging motion (as above) allowing the lure to flutter as its being retrieved.

Shore Fishing
You can catch salmon and trout from the beach using a variety of techniques.

Fly Fishing
Fly fishing using 6 to 10 wt rods, anodized reels with lots of backing, and floating, intermediate, or slow sinking lines is a very popular method, and a large number of anglers frequent the beaches of east Vancouver Island each summer and autumn to enjoy this world-class fishery. Many different types of flies are used depending on the season and species. Check with a local tackle shop to see what's working best at the beach nearest you.

Spin Casting
Spin casting with spoons, spinners and jigs is also popular and highly effective. Anglers most often use 6 to 8 foots rods spooled with 8 to 15 lb test. A trip to your local tackle shop will help you know which spoon, spinner or jig is likely to be most effective in your region.

Beaches can also produce good catches of flounder and sole, depending on the location. Using lighter spinning gear, a couple of split shot sinkers, a single hook and a piece of bait (clam, mussel, herring or small shore crabs) simply cast out and let your bait settle on the bottom. You can also try slowly retrieving a fly placed near the bottom, or hopping a lead head jig.

Guided Fishing Opportunities

If your decision to try a spot in B.C. involves a lodge or charter operator, they will be able to give you specific details about fishing gear, clothing or equipment that will be available or that you will need to bring.

An opportunity to plan ahead and to be in touch with knowledgeable people in the area you plan to visit will allow you to make sure you have the right gear for the type of fishing you may encounter.

Check out our Accommodations and Fishing Guides information.