Learn what fishing gear is provided, what bait and tackle are included, which fishing
methods are used, and what species you may catch during a guided fishing charter in
Ucluelet and Tofino.
Is Fishing Gear Provided?
Yes, all fishing gear, tackle, and bait are fully included with your charter.
Provided Equipment:
Ocean-rated fishing rods and reels.
Tackle & Rigging:
Terminal tackle, artificial lures, jigs, and flashers.
Bait:
Fresh and frozen natural bait appropriate for the season.
Whether you are an experienced angler or trying saltwater fishing for the first time, we ensure that every guest is fishing with equipment properly matched to local west coast conditions.
What Kind of Rods and Reels Do You Use?
Our fishing setup is selected specifically for the demanding conditions of west coast saltwater fishing, utilizing trusted brands like Ugly Stik.
Level-Wind Reels:
Utilized primarily for trolling and targeting salmon.
Single-Action Reels:
Deployed for specific technical fishing applications.
Heavy-Duty Ocean Rods:
Selected for the strength and durability required to haul halibut, lingcod, and large Chinook from deep water.
Is Bait Included?
Yes, bait is included with your fishing charter, along with a full selection of artificial lures and jigs.
Natural Presentations:
Anchovies, herring, and other natural baits.
Artificial Presentations:
Spoons, hoochies, swimbaits, and heavy bottom jigs.
Attractors:
Various inline flashers and dodgers.
Successful fishing often depends on matching the right presentation to the season and current conditions. Your captain will continuously adjust the tackle to maximize your catch rate.
Can I Bring My Own Gear?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own fishing gear if you have a preferred setup.
Setup Considerations:
Ensure your rod action, reel capacity, line strength, and terminal tackle are compatible with deep saltwater trolling or heavy bottom jigging.
While all necessary gear is provided, we understand some experienced anglers prefer their own equipment. We recommend discussing your setup with the captain prior to your trip to ensure it is suitable for our target species.
What Fishing Methods Do You Use?
We primarily use two fishing methods—trolling and jigging—depending on the target species, time of year, and where the fish are holding.
Trolling:
The primary method for catching salmon. This involves moving the boat slowly while presenting bait or lures at highly specific depths using downriggers.
Jigging:
The primary method for catching bottom fish (Halibut, Lingcod, Rockfish). This involves anchoring or drifting while vertically working a heavy lure or bait near the ocean floor.
What Species Can I Catch?
The waters surrounding Ucluelet and Tofino offer diverse saltwater fishing opportunities. Depending on the season and current DFO regulations, guests target several prized west coast species.
Salmon Species:
Chinook (Spring) Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Sockeye Salmon.
Bottom Fish Species:
Pacific Halibut, Lingcod, and various species of Rockfish.
Spring Salmon are highly sought after for their explosive power and endurance, while Halibut are prized for their massive size and the challenge of bringing them up from the depths.
