The waters off Ucluelet represent some of the finest saltwater fishing grounds in the world. This is the realm of the prized Chinook or spring, coho, sockeye and silver bright salmons, Pacific halibut, ling cod and other swimmers congregating in Barkley and Clayoquot Sounds.
Ucluelet's "Big Bank"
Forty km/24.8mi straight into the ocean from Ukee's shores is the phenomenon known as the Big Bank. This is where anglers are most likely to catch the big one. Anyone who hauls in a salmon weighing more than 13.5kg/30 pounds has caught the "tyee" in local parlance, the fisherman's grail. Landing a tyee can be one of the happiest moments in a wannabe fisherman's life. But it isn't for the faint of heart: The 90-minute boat ride can present challenging swell. Prudence calls for an anti-nauseant.
Fishing the Broken Group Islands
Less experienced anglers may choose the relatively sheltered Broken Group Islands. Look for salmon, snapper, cod and small halibut on the end of the line. Porpoises, whales , sea lions and 200 species of sea birds are just for watching.
Chartering a Boat & Guide
More than a dozen fishing charters offer experiences varying from private, eight-hour long ventures to the Big Bank to the "party" charters. Castaway Charters offers a choice of boats including a 9.6m/32ft luxe yacht, choice of fishing packages and an average catch of 40 salmon and halibut per day. Captain Paul Grimston, a 16-year veteran of Pacific Rim waters, also offers eco tours and sunset cruises around Ucluelet Harbour. Long Beach Charters goes a step further with winter "Seafood Safaris" focusing on salmon, prawns and crabs.
Floating Fishing Resort
The Canadian Princess is a 70.5m/235ft refitted survey ship-turned-resort with 30 staterooms aboard and 46 chalet accommodations on shore. Its affordable 13m/43ft and 15.6m/52ft "party-style" cruisers transport groups to Barkley Sound and the Big Bank, with the emphasis on shared excitement. Skipper and deckhand help seasoned hands and newbies in best techniques and hauling in the catch. As is the way, the fish is caught, the fisherman hooked. Cleaning, packaging and refrigeration of the catch is included. Fly-in and drive-in packages are available, too.
For more information on fishing tours and packages, head to the Ucluelet Visitor Centre.