pacificmist said:
We are looking for suggestions on where to fish for either chinook or steelhead for a late Feb-early March trip to BC. Guide recommendations are also appreciated.
Depends on where you're going. If you are interested in Vancouver Island--it's best for a longer trip---over the span of at least 2 days. Otherwise, you're going to spend plenty of time on the ferries, driving, etc etc etc.
However, at this time of year, the Vancouver/Nanaimo/Sunshine Coast Area offers exceptional value and bang for the buck.
Consider this..with somewhat limited fishing effort as a result of the anemic people around Vancouver recently..there has been a 31, 31, 25, 21 several in the high teens, and more than a couple of dozen keepers in the 9 to 14 lb range. Quality is awesome for this time of year..and it's Vancouver and offers you plenty of time to go and see the sights without the ferry expense, driving time, etc etc etc.
Our keeper size is 62 cm---and not some stupid 45 cm BS.
A good couple of days fishing can be had around Vancouver for pretty reasonable rates which will leave you plenty of time to sample great restaurants, scenery, skiing if you want, etc etc etc.
David Korsch on Predator Charters is a good one--and he specializes in Winter Springs.
Bon Chovy with Jason/Jeff offers exceptional value.
Bonnie Lee Charters offers a great experience and great value.
and if you're a bit more adventurous in terms of $$$---but add ferry fare both ways---to Nanaimo for Silver Blue Charters.
Just my .02
I fish the area often and I'd love to see the fish I'd catch if I drove and paid the expense to fish from Sooke right now.
The Vancouver area at this time of year offers more than twice the fishing experience over other areas from a cost perspective, and the fish are BIG for this time of year so far.
It's only getting more consistent and better now--and a limit of crab for the boatload shouldn't be too difficult.