Last Sunday, I have had a great opportunity to go for salmon fishing for the very first time. There was a mention at last all company's meeting for a lack of team building activities - therefore my company's boss Ben offered he will be taking small number of people every Sunday starting mid April on his private boat to try salmon fishing as he is a passionate fisherman himself.
I have run Vancouver Sun Run that morning and have been pretty excited to be among the first ones to give fishing a try. After the run, I have had a quick lunch and headed to Richmond, where we have met in Milltown Marina - place, where my boss' boat is parked.
We have left the docks at about 1.45pm and headed straight to Bowen Island. After about an hour ride, we have slowed down and started trolling, setting a boat's motor to a certain RPM and achieved desired speed. During that time, Ben gave us a quick introduction to salmon fishing and set the fishing rods.
After about 15-20 mins, we have had our first group catch, which was indeed very lucky. My colleague Ian has taken his son with us as well and has been able to score the first catch with little help of Ben.
The minimum length of salmon to be retained is 62 cm - this one luckily has been 64 cm long and therefore to be taken, the daily limit is two per day per person. During the afternoon, we have caught about four or five more, unfortunately all of them have been not long enough and we have to release them back to the ocean.
Shortly before we turned the boat back to Vancouver, I was told to check the rod as there was apparently a fish on the line. Right after I have grabbed the fishing rod, I could tell there is a fish on the other end. Ben told me to focus on having the line as tight as I can to prevent the fish from escaping.
After about 5 minutes, I was able to get the salmon on board and keep it - it was just a few centimetres over the limit. From my own perspective, I can say it felt way easier than I thought it would be. We also have had great guidance from Ben as well as good bait - herring, which kept salmon interested.
On our way back, we have seen seals napping on wood logs near the marina as well as had a chance to spot couple of dolphins in the ocean waters. The whole trip took us about 5 hours and we have been very lucky to take home a filet or two.
Thanks a lot, Ben & Eventbase!