Sunday, November 15, 2009

Sidney Lighted Ships Sailpast 2009

The Sidney Lighted Ships Sailpast takes place on November 28, 2009. The Sailpast commences at approximately 6:00 p.m. starting from Port Sidney Marina, at the end of Beacon Avenue.

There is also a Santa parade starting at 5:00 p.m.

I have watched the sailpast for several years and it is a very enjoyable experience.

For further information contact Peninsula Celebrations Society at 250 656-4365

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Fishing in British Columbia, Canada

Fishing in British Columbia is a popular sport.  Both freshwater and saltwater fishing are available. Here are some of the places you can fish BC and some of the species you may catch. 

Lakes - trout, small mouth bass


Rivers - sturgeon


Ocean - ling cod, rock cod, salmon, halibut, yellow rock fish, sea bass, greenlings, english sole, flounders, and dog fish.

These are some of the many species of fish in BC. 

Remember to obtain the appropriate license for the area and species you will be fishing.

Fishing Gear


For learning the basics, fishing gear is usually not too expensive.  You can start with a basic rod and reel.

This was the first fish I ever caught. I was about 8 when I caught it. All I used to catch it was a simple child's rod and reel and a basic lure.

Once I started fishing for salmon it required me to buy a bigger trolling rod, flashers, hoochies, spoons and other types of salmon fishing gear.  A basic trolling rod is 6-9 feet long and has a large reel with about 500-900 feet of 40-60 lb. test line on it.  

Other considerations when fishing are items to make your time on the water more comfortable  - a cooler, sunscreen, hat, warm clothing, food and water.

The fishing gear you purchase when you are first learning may need to be upgraded as you develop your fishing style.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Fishing Boats

Fishing Boats come in many sizes.

Some of the boats I have fished on include, 10-12 foot aluminum boats, 18-24 foot fiberglass fishing boats, and a few commercial fishing boats, ranging in size from 28-48 feet.

The smaller boats (10-12 feet) are able to fit 2-3 people and their gear, and usually have a 9.9-25 hp engine on them.  The larger boats (18-24 feet) can have either inboard or outboard engines, that range in hp.  They also usually have a small 9.9 hp kicker engine used for trolling.    

Commercial fishing boats come in many different types and sizes.  They can range from small inshore crabbing boats (about 19-28 feet), to much larger tuna and salmon boats (average 42-plus).  The tuna boats are quite large and capable to go far offshore to catch tuna.  They carry a large amount of fuel to stay out for days at a time and can hold thousands of pounds of fish.  Large commercial fishing vessels have living accommodations for the skipper and crew.