Ucluelet Fishing Report Today 🎣

Ucluelet, located on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, offers access to some of the most productive saltwater fishing grounds in the Pacific Northwest. Anglers here target a variety of prized species in the scenic offshore and nearshore waters surrounding this vibrant harbor community.

Weekly Catches

No verified catches in the last 7 or 15 days; the catches below cover the last 21 days.

Chinook Salmon

Recent reports confirm that Chinook Salmon have been a primary target for anglers departing from Ucluelet, with strong numbers and healthy fish noted in the area. The fall run has brought in big Chinook, and the abundance of these salmon has been described as the best in over two decades. Anglers are experiencing excellent action, especially during the incoming tide, as Chinook use the flood current to move toward river mouths. Trolling with herring or anchovies on long leaders behind flashers has been effective, particularly when fished slow and shallow near terminal areas. Pink hoochies and short leaders are also recommended for aggressive, territorial Chinook closer to spawning. Hotspots are typically found near points of land and shoreline pockets where currents concentrate fish.

• Big Chinook are holding and waiting for rain, with some reports of slab-sized fish being caught.
• Effective baits include herring, anchovies, and pink hoochies, with leader length and trolling speed adjusted as fish transition from feeding to aggressive behavior.
• Best action reported during the flood tide, especially an hour before low water and through the incoming tide.

Coho Salmon

Coho Salmon have been described as "absolutely everywhere" in recent updates, providing fast-paced action for anglers in the Ucluelet area. These fish are being caught in good numbers, with some anglers limiting out quickly. The presence of both hatchery and wild Coho has been noted, and they are being found throughout the local waters, often mixed with Chinook schools.

• Coho are thick in the area, with limits reached in short order during recent outings.
• Best results have come from trolling and casting in areas where baitfish are concentrated.

Halibut

Offshore trips from Ucluelet continue to target Halibut alongside salmon. Anglers are using heavy tackle, bottom fishing, and jigging techniques to connect with these prized flatfish. While specific sizes and numbers were not detailed in the most recent evidence, halibut remain a staple for those venturing into deeper offshore waters.

• Effective methods include bottom fishing and jigging with heavy tackle in offshore areas.
• Halibut are often targeted on the same trips as Chinook, providing a mixed-bag opportunity.

Weather & Marine Conditions

Recent weeks have brought favorable fishing weather to the west coast of Vancouver Island, with calmer seas allowing anglers to access offshore grounds more safely. The improved conditions have contributed to increased catch rates and more consistent fishing opportunities for both salmon and groundfish.

Tides & Solunar Activity

Tidal movement is a critical factor for successful fishing in the Ucluelet area. The best bites for Chinook are often reported during the incoming (flood) tide, as salmon use the current to move toward river mouths and become more aggressive feeders. Anglers are advised to focus efforts an hour before low water and continue fishing through the flood for optimal results.

Fishing Conditions & Tips

With Chinook and Coho both abundant, anglers are encouraged to adapt their tactics based on the stage of the salmon run. Early in the migration, larger baits and longer leaders are effective, while later in the season, smaller lures and shorter leaders may trigger more strikes from aggressive, territorial fish. Staying mobile and targeting current seams, shoreline pockets, and areas with visible baitfish activity can increase success rates. Pre-rigging baits and adjusting trolling speed to match fish behavior are also recommended strategies.

Regulations & Notices

Anglers fishing in the Ucluelet area must carry a valid BC Tidal Waters Sports Fishing License and adhere to all current regulations, including size and retention limits for salmon and groundfish. There are ongoing discussions and consultations regarding potential area-based closures and adjustments to protect Southern Resident Killer Whales, particularly affecting Chinook fisheries. While no new closures have been enacted as of this report, anglers should stay informed about regulatory updates and participate in local advisory meetings when possible.

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Ucluelet

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