A few months back, I had a chance to attend the outdoor show here in Campbell River. Exhibitors included those in the fishing tackle industry, along with people who are involved with boating, fishing and all outdoor activities around Campbell River.
This was a chance to talk to people who operate various outdoor operations in the Campbell River area. One of the booths that caught my attention was the Tyee Club of Campbell River. Greg Askey and Don Nicholas were there to answer any questions I had about Tyee fishing in the pool.
Around Campbell River, there are old pictures of rowboats and people fishing for chinook salmon that weigh in at 30 pounds and more. There is a wealth of Tyee Club information at the museum, Painters Lodge, the Campbell River lodge and upstairs of the Riptide Pub. The Tyee Club has a long history of anglers who fish from rowboats using only a plug or spoon, and fishing line is limited to 20 pounds. They had a rower and an angler, and there were no electronics or downriggers. Some anglers row and fish, others use a rower and will take out someone to fish in the Tyee pool. Participants now include many ladies who fish, and there are husbands and wives who spend countless hours in the pool.
Catch reports vary each year; last year, Greg Askey caught the first Tyee, a 43 lb. 14oz on July 30. Last year, four salmon weighing 30 pounds or more were registered. The Tyee clubhouse is located at the Spit and is open to the public to get information about the club's operation. The pool will be open July 15, and the season wraps up on Sep. 15. At first daylight, a few hardy anglers will start fishing, and some will fish well into the night.
On July 15, you will see several boats heading out for salmon as the non-retention for chinook lifts, and anglers will be able to take something home. Coho fishing has been good in the area, with lots of hatchery fish caught and all wild fish released. I had a glance at coho in the area the first week in May, and they were showing up in good numbers on the electronics. You can also drive to Pacific Playgrounds to check out the marina, and information for fishing charters is also available. These fish are smaller in size and are a great sport fish for those fishing in Discovery Passage. If you are a non-fisher, a good viewing area is Discovery Pier. You will see a variety of boats heading into the fishing zone.
With the warmer weather, the trout fishing has picked up on local lakes, the trout are on the move and evening hours can be very good for finding fish in the shallows. This is a great time to enjoy the weather and get out fishing. The pink salmon fishing is around the corner, and next week, some reports will be provided.
