Best Places to See When Exploring Vancouver Island

 

Exploring Vancouver Island’s lush rainforests and beautiful beaches is a boater’s dream. Starting at Van Isle Marina on your map of Vancouver Island, BC, this guide to sailing Vancouver Island will highlight the best places to visit along the east coast culminating in northern Vancouver Island at the tip of Cape Scott Provincial Park.

 

No car, no problem. This guide to locations and activities has been carefully crafted with a boater in mind to be only a short paddle, walk or bike ride away. So, pull out your Vancouver Island map and follow along to chart your course of charming and unique destinations along Vancouver Island’s eastern coast. An adventure awaits.

8 Stop Worthy Spots from Van Isle Marina to Campbell River

Starting at Van Isle Marina on the tip of the Saanich Peninsula and heading north through the Southern Gulf Islands, you will find many interesting small towns to explore as well as stunning, wildlife-filled coastlines. Some recommended stops include:

While at Van Isle Marina – Borrow a courtesy bicycle for a quick ride to an outdoor activity that will appeal to everyone – Robert’s Bay Shoal Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary (750 m). Victoria Distillers (3 km) provides a taste of something local, while Glass Beach (3 km) will keep the treasure hunter occupied.

 

Explore the Float Homes at Cowichan Bay Village – Enjoy the slow pace as you wander the float-home lined bay, browse for unique trinkets and enjoy the fish & chips at The Rock Cod in North America’s first Cittaslow designated community.

 

Shop Salt Spring Island’s Farmers Market – Stock up on fresh local produce, mouth-watering baking, one-of-a-kind clothing, and internationally acclaimed art from one of the many friendly artisans at this famous Saturday market. Doggy daycare is available too.

 

Discover all the Murals in Chemainus – With over fifty murals and sculptures to guide you through the town of Chemainus, this community-driven art tourism experience provides a new twist on a walk around town.

 

Bite Into an Award-Winning Cinnamon Bun in Ladysmith – Take a short walk for a sweet treat. With nine cinnamon bun flavours to choose from and a host of house-made baked goods, there’s something to suit everyone at Old Town Bakery.

 

Bike Around Saysutshun (Newcastle Island) – This Marine Provincial Park, home of the Snuneymuxw people, is a stone’s throw away from Nanaimo. Rent a bike or walk the many hiking trails to see if you can find an elusive white raccoon foraging through a tidal pool. Saysutshun is one of the only known locations white raccoons have been encountered in British Columbia. Look for moon snails at low tides as you walk to Protection Island.

Explore the Malaspina Galleries on Gabriola Island – This unusual wavelike formation carved into the sandstone peninsula is an awe-inspiring landmark worth exploring. Best visited at low tide, the Malaspina Galleries are admission free and accessible to the public.

 

Shuck a Huge Fanny Bay Oyster – On your way to discovering the coastal trails on Denman Island and Hornby Island, anchor and visit the Fanny Bay seafood shop and get your hands dirty. Create your own tide-to-table experience with their fresh and sustainably sourced seafood and slurp-worthy oysters.

7 Adventures from Campbell River to Cape Sutil

Continuing the journey to northern Vancouver Island, travel through wildlife-rich waters where the island meets the mainland. Keep your eyes peeled for orcas, whales, sea lions, bald eagles and a plethora of other sea life while enjoying your journey between these recommended locations:

 

Sail Around Quadra Island – If sailing Vancouver Island’s iconic locations is on your bucket list, Quadra Island is the perfect destination. Renowned in the Pacific Northwest for its protected anchorages and accessible beaches, the island’s late-summer placid water is ideal for cruising. Weather systems at any time of the year make for exciting sailing in Quadra’s many open channels.

Whale Watch at Robson Bight – The barnacle-encrusted rocks of Robson Bight attract pods of orcas to this stretch of Johnstone Strait. Unfortunately, the ecological reserve is closed to the public. However, nearby Boat Bay or Growler Cove on West Cracroft Island make excellent whale-watching anchorages. Help keep these magnificent mammals safe by following the Federal Watching Guidelines.

 

Rent a Cottage at Telegraph Cove – One of eastern Vancouver Islands’ last boardwalk communities, Telegraph Cove, transports you to another time. Steeped in history, this colourful community of cabins still stands on stilts. Treat yourself to a night off your boat at one of the many charming rentals and enjoy the self-guided historical boardwalk tour. This convenient location provides access to paddling opportunities, outdoor adventures, and abundant Pacific marine wildlife in the Broughton Archipelago and Johnstone Strait.

 

Immerse Yourself in Culture at Alert Bay – Be sure to spend a Saturday on Cormorant Island to enjoy the T’sasala Cultural Group Dance Performance in the ‘Namgis Traditional Big House (July & August). While you’re here, marvel at the world’s tallest Totem Pole and immerse yourself in the rich history of the local people at the U’mista Cultural Centre.

 

Take a Wander Around Port McNeill – Take a break from exploring the Broughton Archipelago in Port McNeill – home to the world’s largest burl. Stroll the seawall and carry on downtown to Broughton Boulevard to view this thirty-ton bulbous growth taken from a Sitka Spruce.

 

Meet the Locals in Port Hardy – The Totems and Big Houses that stand tall amongst the towering Douglas Fir trees in Port Hardy connect you to the story of the Quatsino and Gwa’sala’ Nakwaxda’xw peoples. Grab a coffee at Café Guido and meander through the Hardy Bay Seawall and Carrot Park, wonderful places to chat with locals.

 

Plan an Adventure at Cape Scott Provincial Park – If you want to get out and stretch your legs after cruising the entire east coast of the island, the North Coast Trail provides a challenging multi-day adventure for experienced backpackers. The sea stacks at San Josef Bay and sandy beaches are a stunning stop-off for those more interested in a day trip. Find anchorage at Bull Harbour on Hope Island to prepare for your west coast adventure and ready yourself to round the cape if you’re circumnavigating the island.

 

Van Isle Marina – Excellence and Value in Every Marina Experience

Whichever locations you choose to explore on Vancouver Island, be sure to stop at the premier marina in the Pacific Northwest, Van Isle Marina. As one of the largest full-service marinas in British Columbia, our unparalleled personal service will meet all your needs. Let us know how Van Isle Marina can help you plan your trip sailing Vancouver Island.

 

We are located in Tsehum Harbour, just minutes from BC Ferries’ Swartz Bay terminal, and the Victoria International Airport. Directions by car, boat, coordinates and chart can all be found at vanislemarina.com.

 

A Complete Overview of BC Fishing Regulations on the Ocean

The west coast of Canada is a fishing enthusiast’s paradise, and we all want to keep it that way. That’s why BC fishing regulations are designed to ensure that the resident species can be fished without being depleted too quickly. 

While fishing regulations may seem inconvenient to some, they act as on-paper stewardship for the marine ecosystem, ensuring fish populations remain strong for generations to come.

Read on to learn 6 things you should know before saltwater fishing on the west coast, including the saltwater fishing regulations BC enforces, licensing rules and the types of fish found in British Columbia’s coastal waters.

6 Things to Know About Saltwater Fishing in BC 

Even frequent anglers can’t be expected to remember all the fishing regulations for British Columbia. So, it’s always good to refresh your knowledge before going out on a fishing trip, especially for a species with which you are less familiar. 

As a starting point, here are five things you should know about before saltwater fishing in BC.

1. BC Saltwater Fish Species

BC’s coastal waters are home to a wide variety of saltwater fish species, including some considered “anadromous,” meaning that they spend part of their lifecycle in the ocean and in freshwater.

While fishing species like halibut, ling cod, albacore tuna and any of the 5 types of salmon are among the most popular to fish, there are many species that anglers are likely to come into contact with in the oceans off BC’s west coast.

This Department of Fisheries and Oceans fish identifier list for the Pacific region details the fish found in the area and how to identify them.

2. Fishing Licensing Rules in BC

By law, anyone who wishes to go fishing in British Columbia must have the correct license. To catch any species of shellfish or finfish, you will need a BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing License. 

It is useful to know the following regulations connected to the use of a BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing license:

• The license is not transferable.
• The license must be carried when fishing and produced on request by conservation officers, fishery officers or guardians. 
• All retained halibut and chinook caught in a Management Area must be recorded on the license.
• All retained ling cod caught in waters off the eastern coast and southern tip of Vancouver Island (Management areas 12-19 plus 20-5 to 20-7, and 29-5) must be recorded on the license.
• BC salmon fishing regulations state that anyone intending to catch and retain any species of Salmon must have a Salmon Conservation Stamp in addition to their BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing License. However, the stamp is optional if the angler intends to release all Salmon caught.

3. License Types and Fees

There are various saltwater fishing license options available depending on how often you plan to go ocean fishing. You must choose a non-resident license if you are not a resident of Canada. 

You can find details of the types of licenses available, their associated fee and an online license application here.

Note: Although children under 16 require a tidal water fishing license, it is free.

4. Saltwater Fishing Gear Restrictions

Since saltwater fishing often goes beyond the simple fishing rod and hook gear selection, there are regulations in place to specify and restrict how much and what kind of gear may be used in catching saltwater fish.

Looking for a new fishing boat? Read more about the best boats for fishing.

Below is a quick breakdown of the restrictions and allowances surrounding using particular gear.

General

• Gear restrictions and allowances are subject to change mid-season.
• You can use multiple rods in coastal tidal waters, but only one rod is allowed when fishing in BC’s tidal rivers.
• You may not use a sinker weighing more than 1 kg unless you use a downrigger line. In this case, the fishing line must be attached to the downrigger with a release clip.
• A gillnet for smelt fishing may be at most 7.5 meters, with a mesh size between 25 mm and 50 mm.
• Only one gillnet may be used at one time and must have a buoy with the owner’s details clearly marked on it.
• If you use a dipnet to catch mackerel, smelt, sand lance, sardines or anchovies, it must measure at most 90 cm, with a bag no longer than 1.5 times that measurement.

Hooks

• Barbed hooks, including triple-barbed hooks, may be used for all finfish except salmon and trout.
• Barbless hooks must be used when fishing in the tidal waters of BC rivers.
• Your line may only have one hook except for:
  • Multiple hooks may attach a piece of bait to the line, provided they aren’t intended to catch more than one fish.
  • Multiple hooks may catch mackerel, herring, anchovy, Pacific Sand Lance or Pacific Sardine.

Using Fish as Bait

• Fish suitable for human consumption may not be used as bait in sport fishing.
• Fish offal, mackerel, sardines, or herring may be used when baiting traps.

5. Be Aware of Daily Catch Limits

Catch limits protect local fish populations while allowing anglers to retain something from their catch. Because some fish species have healthier populations than others, daily limits for saltwater fishing in BC vary according to the species and the Management Area you are fishing in.

Always research daily catch limits for the area you are fishing in before setting off and remember to record all halibut, chinook and lingcod catches on your license.

6. Reporting Your Catch

To monitor the impact of recreational fishing on the species found in BCs oceans, DFO requires any BC Tidal Water Sports Fishing licence holder aged over 16 to report their complete catch, whether retained or not, for a fixed period.

For example, an annual license holder will be asked to report all catches for one specific month, indicated on their licence.

Participation in this recreational monitoring program is mandatory and a condition of being granted a license. 

Get On the Water and Catch the Big One

Now you know the regulations and licensing requirements, it’s time to get out onto the beautiful west coast ocean and get fishing!

You can easily access the world’s best sports fishing from your southern Vancouver Island base at Van Isle Marina.

Do you need a new fishing boat to get you out to the best fishing spots? Our yacht sales team can help you find the perfect vessel. Contact us today to find out more.

All About Sport Fishing and How to Catch the Big One

Residents and visitors to British Columbia are lucky to have access to some of the best sport fishing waters in the world. 

BC sport fishing remains a popular pastime thanks to the abundance of sport fish that populate the local oceans, lakes and rivers. Whether you aim to catch and release or keep your catch, you are spoiled for choice for first-class sport fishing locations and fish species on the west coast of Canada.

Read on to learn more about sport fishing (also known as recreational fishing) and some of the best locations in British Columbia to try it out. We will also share what you need to know to make your next hunt for ‘the big one’ successful.

See our Sports Fishing Boats for Sale

All about BC Sport Fishing 

Sport fishing is any style of fishing done for the primary purpose of recreation or competition. In other words, it is for fun – not to make a profit or for commercial food distribution. Sport fishing usually takes place from a boat, although in some cases can be done from shore.

Most sports anglers take part in the activity for the enjoyment of being in nature and the skill of a successful catch. Many sports or recreational anglers will choose to practice catch-and-release fishing, where special equipment is used not to harm the fish.

Many sport fishing competitions occur in saltwater and freshwater locations across BC each year, allowing anglers to show off their skills. The International Game Fish Association sets and oversees voluntary rules and guidelines for recreational fishing, including angling rules, world records, conservation and competitions.

What Species of Sport Fish Can You Catch in BC?

British Columbia is well known as a salmon fishing and halibut fishing hotspot, but there are many other sports fish species in saltwater and freshwater locations too. Although BC isn’t as well known for cod fishing, groundfish species, including Ling Cod and Pacific Cod, can be found in some areas.

The sport fish species most commonly sought by recreational anglers in BC include:

• Pacific Salmon – Chinook, Chum, Coho, Sockeye and Pink
• Trout- including cutthroat and steelhead
• Groundfish – including Halibut and Lingcod
• Sturgeon – mostly found inshore or in large river systems

See this complete list of fish species found in the Pacific region for more information about and images of each species.

Where are Good Sport Fishing Locations in BC and Vancouver Island?

There are so many good sports fishing spots in British Columbia that you are spoiled for choice. Generally, your location will be determined by whether you wish to fish off-shore (saltwater) or in freshwater (lakes and rivers) and, of course, by the species, you hope to catch.

Here are some of the sport fishing spots we recommend:

Vancouver Island

The waters around Vancouver Island are well known for saltwater sports fishing with a mix of inshore and offshore locations. Almost any area around the island will have some successful big-catch fishing, but some well-known and popular sites include:

• North West Vancouver Island – Known as the salmon highway, the areas around Kuyquot Sound and the Brooks Peninsula are great for both salmon and halibut fishing.
• Northern Vancouver Island – Visit Port Hardy and Cape Scott waters for good fishing opportunities for all 5 salmon species.
• South West Vancouver Island – Sooke is a popular salmon fishing spot for those with less experience or who wish to stay closer to shore.  

Across British Columbia

Across the mainland of BC, there are plentiful opportunities for freshwater sportfishing in locations such as:

• Fernie River – Located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this area is famous for Bull Trout fishing.
• Nicola Valley – The many lakes of this region are perfect for trout fishing.
• Fraser River – Well known for the chance to fish for the mighty Sturgeon – although there are strict catch and release rules for this ancient species.

Visit fishingbc.com for plenty of good suggestions for fishing locations and itineraries across Vancouver Island and the province.

What Do You Need to Know Before Sport Fishing in BC?

To ensure a fun and successful recreational fishing adventure, you should read the following recommendations:

Get the appropriate licence

Depending on where you plan to fish, you will require either a tidal (saltwater) fishing licence or a freshwater fishing licence. 

Don’t forget – you will need a salmon conservation stamp if you wish to retain any species of pacific salmon.

Know the local recreational fishing regulations

Make sure you understand British Columbia sports fishing rules and regulations before setting out on a fishing trip. This guide provides information about catch and release restrictions, catch limits and tagging and how to identify your catch and protected fishing areas.

Remember your catch limits 

If you plan to retain some of your catch, ensure you are up-to-date with the permitted catch limits for each species. Note that limits can vary in different areas. 

If in doubt, fishing equipment suppliers are a great source of information regarding local rules and the best locations for sports fishing.

How to Catch ‘The Big One’

Some things to bear in mind that will help you be successful in your quest to catch (and release) the big one:

• Plan ahead: Make sure you research your preferred location, the species of fish you may catch there, and, most importantly, check the weather forecast. 
• Get a reliable boat: Before setting off on any sport fishing trip, you must have a suitable boat and all the necessary equipment.

Recommended boats for offshore sports fishing include:

• • Centre console
  • Sports yachts
  • Walkarounds

These types of sports fishing vessels all offer good deck space, built-in rod holders and lots of storage space.

• Be prepared with the right equipment:  If you plan to catch and release, you will need to purchase some specialist equipment, such as barbless hooks, which don’t harm the fish.

Tip: Remember to carry enough emergency and safety equipment for everyone on board.

• Have Patience: Some days, the fish don’t bite immediately, but patience usually pays off. Of course, you can always switch to a different location – many choices exist.

Van Isle Marina – a Good Base for Your Sport Fishing Adventures

Van Isle Marina is proud to be located nearby some of the best recreational fishing waters in the world. From our state-of-the-art marina in Sidney, BC, you can easily access some great fishing experiences.

If you’re interested in a new sports fishing yacht, talk to our experienced yacht sales team, who can find you the perfect boat.   You can also top up on supplies and equipment at our on-site store at the fuel dock. 

Contact us today for more information about mooring with us and our other services.

 

All About Bald Eagles and Where to See Them

Even if you are used to seeing bald eagles soaring above, it’s still a thrill to see one of these majestic birds at the top of a nearby nest tree or out on the hunt.

If you want to find these birds of prey, Vancouver Island is a great place to be. While exploring some of the island’s beautiful shores on your yacht, keep an eye or camera lens out for these impressive symbols of freedom and strength.

Read on to learn about bald eagles and some of the best places on Vancouver Island to see them.  

All About the Bald Eagle

The word “bald” might suggest that this eagle lacks head feathers, but in fact, that part of its name comes from the term “piebald,” which refers to an animal bearing a pattern of spots or an area that lacks pigment.

With white feathers on the head and a dark brown body, an adult eagle already looks striking, without considering that the typical bald eagle size is 3 feet from the top of the head to the tip of the tail. 

Their size and an average bald eagle wingspan of 8 feet might make you think an adult is a hefty bird. But they weigh less than 15 pounds because of their hollow bones.

While bald eagles are native to North America and can be found all over British Columbia, their preferred habitat is near the coast or in densely treed areas around rivers and lakes. 

What Do Bald Eagles Eat?

Bald eagles mainly eat fish – such as salmon – and other birds. However, they can also hunt for small mammals and even those up to the size of a tiny fawn. 

While bald eagles prefer live prey, they are also known to eat carrion (dead or rotting flesh) when their typical game is not abundant. 

Although bald eagles are predatory, they are considered opportunistic feeders, meaning they will eat whatever meat is available, whether alive or not.

10 Interesting Facts About Bald Eagles

Bald eagles are not only beautiful birds and impressive hunters, but they also have some hidden skills to help them survive. Here are 10 bald eagle facts you may not know:

• Excellent vision. A bald eagle has eyesight that is 8 times better than a human’s. This characteristic allows them to spot prey hundreds of feet in the air.
• Devoted mates. When bald eagles find a mate, they remain with that mate for their entire life.
• Neck rotation. Eagles can turn their head 210 degrees to spot prey more easily.
• Impressive grip. Bald eagles have a grip strength up to 10 times that of a human, allowing them to not only catch their prey but also carry it over distances without letting go.
• Bold and intelligent. Bald eagles dive directly in front of the sun to blind their prey.
• Living the high life. A bald eagle’s nest is typically found at the tops of tall trees or high cliffs. By making a home so high up, bald eagles can keep themselves away from other predators while giving them an excellent vantage point for spotting prey.
• Balanced feather loss. When bald eagles lose feathers on one side, they will also lose the same ones on the other. This way, their feathers remain balanced so as not to impact their ability to fly correctly.
• Nesting. Bald eagle nests can be up to 2 meters in diameter and are made of lichens, seaweed, plant stalks, sticks and moss.
• Swimming skills. Have you ever seen a bald eagle swimming? Although it’s not an everyday activity, they have been known to use their wings to propel themselves through the water, usually while holding onto a fish with their claws.
• Illegal eagle. It is unlawful to pick up bald eagle feathers to take home or to own any part of a bald eagle.

The 5 Best Places to Spot Bald Eagles on Vancouver Island

Bald eagles are a common sight for fishermen and other boaters travelling along Vancouver Island’s coasts. On any given day, you might see one or two bald eagles, but you might also see dozens as they soar through the skies and hunt the coastline for their prey.

While it is possible to spot bald eagles almost anywhere along the coast of Vancouver Island, including Victoria, some places are recognized as offering better sighting opportunities. 

Here is a list of the 5 best places to spot bald eagles on Vancouver Island:

1. Tofino. On Vancouver Island’s west coast, situated on a peninsula in Clayoquot Sound, you’ll find Tofino, a district with a population of around 2,000 people. Tofino is home to coastal rainforests, sandy beaches, inland lakes and bald eagles.
2. Campbell River. Just over 50 km from Courtney, on Vancouver Island’s east coast, you’ll find the city of Campbell River. Nestled between its namesake river and the south end of Discovery Passage, Campbell River is virtually surrounded by prime bald eagle habitat.
3. Telegraph Cove. Located just over 200 km northwest of Campbell River, Telegraph Cove is a tiny community of just 20 people. Formerly the site of a fish cannery, Telegraph Cove is now a hotspot for eco-tourism, including bald eagle viewing.
4. Port McNeill. Port McNeill is situated near the east coast’s northernmost tip of Vancouver Island. With a small population of around 2,000 people, Port McNeill is a popular summer-time tourism destination due to the wide variety of wildlife that can be seen in the surrounding area.
5. Ucluelet. Just over 40 km south of Tofino, on Vancouver Island’s west coast, is the municipality of Ucluelet. Ucluelet is bordered by water on three sides and offers an abundance of bald eagle viewing opportunities.

Wildlife Viewing from The Comfort of Your Boat

One of the best ways to view bald eagles in BC is from your boat. Contact a member of Van Isle Marina’s knowledgeable sales team if you’re interested in taking full advantage of Vancouver Island’s natural beauty by exploring the coast by purchasing a new or used boat. We can find your ideal yacht and get you out on the water in no time. 

Our state-of-the-art marina is the perfect location to start and end a day of on-the-water wildlife viewing. Contact us to find out more about mooring with us.