Shore fishing for salmon is gaining popularity, particularly among those living near the coastline. One passionate angler, who resides just minutes from the shore, has set out to enhance his skills in this method of fishing. "I’ve decided to dedicate more time to shore fishing this season, not only because I live 5 minutes from the shore, but because I want to really hone this craft and style of fishing," he explained.
The season for shore fishing salmon typically spans the summer months into early fall. In central Vancouver Island, where this angler operates, the peak months are July, August, and September. During this time, salmon returning to their spawning rivers often come close to shore, chasing after bait as they prepare for their final freshwater journey. "These are salmon returning to their local spawning rivers and will often be chasing bait near shore to fatten up for that last freshwater swim," he noted.
Interestingly, BC is home to resident Chinook salmon that can be caught year-round. Known as “Feeder Chinooks” or, in the winter months, “Winter Chinooks,” these fish grow during the off-season before their spawning runs in the fall. They can typically be caught from early December through late March.
When it comes to equipment for catching salmon from shore, a well-rounded gear setup is essential. "The best way to catch salmon from shore is to cast out weighted jigs. Typically 1.5oz to 3oz in size, with an 'S' shaped profile," the angler explained.
The type of rod used can significantly impact the fishing experience. "The ideal rod should be at least 8′ long, doesn’t need to be longer than 10′," he said. A good rod offers the necessary backbone to handle at least a 1oz lure, ideally rated as Medium to Medium-Heavy. Importantly, he advises against using a heavier rod as it can compromise sensitivity and potentially harm the fish upon hook-set.
For spinning reels, he strongly recommends choosing a model suited for saltwater fishing. "Use a spinning reel 100%. Don’t use a baitcaster as they’re prone to bird nest when you’re casting hard/far," he cautioned. A reel rated for a minimum of 30# braided mainline, with a spool capacity of at least 200+ yards, is optimal.
Braided line serves as the mainline choice for many anglers, as it allows for longer casts without requiring a larger reel. "I typically use a braided line rated 40# to 50# from shore. I wouldn’t go less than 30# braid from shore," he advised.
To connect to the leader line, a duo-lock or barrel swivel is advisable. "My leader line is either monofilament or fluorocarbon," he shared, emphasizing that the length usually ranges from 3′ to 5′. His recommendations for leader line weight vary and depend on the type of material used.
When it comes to choosing the right lures, the angler highlights the need to replicate the predominant bait fish in the area. "Lures can be subjective. And like all fishing lures you want to match what the fish are naturally eating," he stated.
Among his preferred choices is the Lil Nib 2oz lure in various colors. "One con of these jigs is their quality. They chip easily, lose their stickers, and I’ve even had multiple trebles break off before," he noted. To enhance their performance, he suggests replacing the original trebles with higher quality options and rejuvenating the glow tape on the lure.
Another reliable option is the Original Macdeep in a 1.5oz size. "These have been around for a while and they work great. They’re made really well and hold up better than the Lil Nib jigs," he commented.
In conclusion, shore fishing for salmon can be an enriching experience, especially for those who take the time to understand the nuances of the craft. By employing the right gear, understanding seasonal patterns, and choosing appropriate lures, anglers can greatly enhance their chances of success. As the fishing seasons transition, the knowledge gained from dedicated practice will only serve to refine one’s skills and possibly lead to a bountiful catch this summer.
