Category: Free Inquiry

When I first set out on my fishing inquiry project, I envisioned myself catching fish after fish, quickly learning how to catch a steelhead. What I didn’t anticipate was the long, sometimes frustrating journey it would take to get there. Throughout my many trips, I faced quiet mornings on the river with no bites and the constant question “What am I doing wrong?” It wasn’t until my final outing that I finally caught my first fish, an experience that made every struggle worthwhile.

I am used to catching a lot of fish back home so it was kind of upsetting not being able to catch a fish time after time. I began to change my mindset and realized, is not just about the catch, it’s about the process. Each trip was an opportunity to learn and adjust my technique. In those moments of trial and error, I gained a deeper appreciation for the patience and skill required in fishing.

That final trip, the one where I finally caught a fish, was a culmination of all the lessons I had learned along the way. The excitement of feeling that first tug on the line, the thrill of reeling in my fish, and the pride of seeing the results of my patience, it was all so much more rewarding because of the challenges that came before it.

As I close this chapter of my inquiry project, I walk away with a new mindset towards fishing and realize to trust the process and to not give up. I am going to continue my fishing journey over the summer and this was just the beginning. I was starting to debate if this was a good inquiry project but everything worked out just fine and I am glad I took this opportunity!

Catching My First Brown Trout: A Memory to Last a Lifetime

Catching my first brown trout was one of the more rewarding experiences I’ve had fishing. It wasn’t just about the fish but it was about the experience and the patience that finally paid off.

I’ve spent countless hours on the river since starting this inquiry project, and as I’ve mentioned in previous posts, it hasn’t been the most successful journey. My excitement for steelhead fishing had started to wear thin and waking up early every weekend only to not catch anything was beginning to feel pointless. For my final trip of this project, I decided to switch things up and target brown trout instead. While I had really hoped to catch a steelhead, which are one of the more challenging and prized fish due to their size and strength, I had to be realistic. With rising water levels and less-than-ideal conditions, the odds weren’t in my favour. Looking back, I’m glad I made the change. It allowed me to end this journey on a positive note, proving that sometimes, a shift in perspective makes all the difference.

The Setup

I used a 4x 9lb leader (4x is a lighter line, which helps sink the nymph/hook quicker) I then tied about 2ft of 6x 4lb tippet to the end of the leader and was using a nymph (beside is a picture of what I caught the fish on)

The Moment of Truth

Minutes passed, then hours, I changed flies, went to different spots, still nothing. Just as doubt started creeping in, I felt my line tug. My heart jumped and the line went tight, and suddenly, I was battling a fish.

This fish put up a good fight especially for it’s size, it probably took a good 5 minutes. Since I had a heavier rod the fight was probably a little easier opposed to a lighter rod but it was still good. I kept letting the fish run because I didn’t want the line to break off. As I carefully reeled it in, I caught a glimpse of the fish and quickly saw that it was a brown trout. Catching my first brown trout wasn’t just about the fish; it was about persistence, patience, and the pure joy of being out in nature. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best things come when you least expect them—but only if you’re willing to put in the effort.

This was my last fishing trip before end of this inquiry project and I was feeling quite pessimistic because I have been on the river many times and only got the odd bite or two, and the water levels were still pretty high which was not ideal.

I had decided to completely change my fishing techniques in order to try and catch a brown trout as this felt like my last chance to land a fish before this inquiry project was over.

I decided to additionally change the spot I was fishing because the last handful of times I kept going to the same place as it was the only spot I could at least get a bite. This time I went closer to the head waters (where the river starts) and this area of the river was a fly fishing only section which was different than the previous areas. Due to the water levels still being really high, it was hard to cast without snagging on the branches and all the pathways were under water so it made it a lot more difficult to access the water.

I was fishing for a few hours and didn’t have any luck which made me feel like I should just go home and the day light was starting to run out anyway. I decided to cast a few more times before I called it a day and this is when my line went tight and the tip of my rod started to bounce. I thought to myself that it felt different than a snag but I didn’t have much hope at this point. But I soon realized that there was a fish on my line! I will talk more about me landing the fish in my next blog.

Unfortunately, I haven’t had any luck with steelhead other than the odd bite, despite going 10+ times. I have talked to many other fishers and they have all said that it has been a slow year for winter steelhead so it makes me feel a little better that this is probably not my fault. With the water levels rising I don’t have high hopes that I will catch anything before this inquiry project is complete. So I have decided to try and focus on brown trout instead of steelhead to have any hope of catching something.

Brown Trout are predators that feed on a variety of insects. Brown trout prefer locations with overhead cover (tree branches, overhanging riverbanks, etc.) opposed to steelhead fish that prefer slower and low water. https://www.flyfisherman.com/editorial/all-about-brown-trout/454242#replay

This means that I have to change up my fishing techniques. I went to the fly shop and had a conversation with the worker there and they suggested that I use the technique of euro nymphing. This involves using smaller flies compared to steelhead because they eat little bugs in comparison to bright smaller fish that steelhead prefer. Brown trout would still eat smaller fish but they won’t go for the bright colours.

This weekend me and my friend decided to drive to Cowichan River to get some fishing in but all the snow is melting and running into the river which caused for really high water levels making it super hard and unsafe to fish the river. We were told if the river was over 1.5m that we probably wouldn’t catch anything and it was at 1.6m when we were there.

Understanding Water Levels and Their Impact

Water levels in the Cowichan River fluctuate due to various factors, including seasonal rainfall and snow melting. These fluctuations directly influence fish behaviour and accessibility for fishers, according to One Cowichan.

• High Water Levels: Elevated water levels, often resulting from heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt, can make fishing challenging. Fast currents and murky waters can limit fish visibility and make it harder for the fish to see the flies. Additionally, safety becomes a concern, as strong currents can be hazardous.​
• Low Water Levels: During periods of drought or reduced rainfall, the river’s water levels can drop significantly. This can lead to warmer water temperatures and reduced oxygen levels, stressing fish populations. Moreover, low water can concentrate fish into smaller areas, increasing their vulnerability and potentially leading to overfishing.​ This is often a problem in the summers and can lead to river closures for the wellbeing of the fish.

Optimal Water Levels for Fishing

Determining the ideal water level for fishing on the Cowichan River requires monitoring real-time data, I began checking it on this website after we got there and realized the conditions were not close to being ideal and catching a fish probably wasn’t likely https://wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/report/real_time_e.html?stn=08HA011.

There is a graph that shows the exact water level for many different rivers, this one is for Cowichan

What This Experience Taught Me

To ensure a successful and safe fishing experience on the Cowichan River:

1. Monitor Water Levels: Regularly check real-time water level data from reliable sources before your trip.​
2. Prioritize Safety: Always be cautious of rapidly changing water conditions, especially during or after heavy rain/snowfall.​

Over my past few times out on the river, I have seen a wide variety of fishing rods. I use a 8/9 weight fly rod but have seen other types of fly rods, centerpin rods, and spin rods.

1. Centerpin Rods

Centerpin rods are specially designed for float fishing and are commonly used by steelhead anglers in rivers and streams. These rods are long, often ranging from 10 to 14 feet, allowing for precise control of the float and a more natural drift. Paired with a centerpin reel, these rods provide excellent line control, which helps in presenting bait naturally to steelhead. This setup allows for extended drifts, giving anglers the best chance to get a bite. centerpin rods

Best For: Float fishing/long drifts in rivers

2. Fly Rods

Fly fishing for steelhead is an exciting and challenging technique that requires specialized fly rods. These rods typically range from 9 to 12 feet in length (mine is 9 feet) and are designed to cast weighted fly lines with precision. Depending on the size of the river and the fishing conditions, anglers may choose single-hand fly rods (what I use) or two-handed (Spey or switch) rods. Two-handed rods are particularly useful for making long casts and covering large sections of the river. Fly fishing allows for various presentations, including nymphing and swinging flies, which can be highly effective for enticing steelhead. Fly Rods

Best For: Fly fishing, nymphing, swinging flies in larger rivers

3. Spinning Rods

Spinning rods are one of the most versatile options for steelhead fishing. They are an excellent choice for beginners and experienced anglers alike due to their ease of use and adaptability. Spinning rods typically range from 8 to 10 feet in length, allowing for long casts and better control in fast-moving water. These rods pair well with spinning reels and are perfect for drift fishing, float fishing, and tossing spoons or spinners. A medium to medium-light action rod with a sensitive tip is ideal for detecting subtle steelhead bites. Spin Rods

Best For: Drift fishing/float fishing

There’s something about steelhead fishing makes you want to keep coming back even when you don’t catch anything. I tried fishing Sandy Pool on the Cowichan River, braving the cold snow day. I am from a city that snows quite a lot so I figured I would take advantage of the snow day and no school to go out and get some time on the river.

I have never fished on a river while it’s snowing and it was definitely an experience for the books. Although I didn’t fish for long because the cold crept in faster than expected, it was enough to feel the difference from my previous outings. This time, there were bites. Not just the mind-playing-tricks or the hook getting snagged, but real, solid bites that sent a jolt of excitement through me. I did not land a fish sadly, but after a few fishless attempts in the past, just knowing they were there was really rewarding and made me super excited to go back. If it wasn’t so cold outside and I could’ve stayed longer, I really think I would have landed a fish.

Fishing on a snow day was cold and definitely not for everyone but it was probably one of the most fun I’ve had fishing on the island since i’ve moved here. Progress is progress, and with each trip, I’m learning more about these fish, the river, and the patience it takes to chase steelhead. Maybe next time will be the day but for now, I’ll take the small rewards and keep coming back for more!

As I mentioned in my previous blog, my first fishing trip in Victoria was at Skutz Falls located on the Cowichan River. For my second fishing trip I decided to go a little down the river and fish Stoltz Pool. I was eager to apply what I had learned from my first outing and expand my search to try and land a fish. I also shifted my focus from steelhead to brown trout, hoping for better results. Unfortunately, despite my best efforts, I still didn’t catch anything—but the trip was still an adventure worth sharing and provided valuable insights for my next steps.

A Day of Patience

I arrived to the river early in the morning, there was tons of steam rising from the river as the sun was warming the cold water, which made it difficult to see. The crisp, cool air and the sound of the flowing water created a peaceful atmosphere. I had high hopes but hours passed and despite trying different techniques and flies, nothing seemed to bite. Still, the serenity of the place made it an enjoyable experience and helped me reflect on how I could improve my approach.

Expanding My Exploration

Rather than focusing solely on my technique, I’ve realized that part of my inquiry project should involve discovering new fishing locations. Every fishing spot has unique characteristics, and by visiting a variety of them, I can better understand what makes a location successful. My fishing experiences at Stoltz Pool and Skutz Falls have set the foundation for my inquiry project. Moving forward, I plan to:

• Visit New Fishing Spots – Expanding my search beyond Stoltz Pool and Skutz Falls to explore other rivers
• Test Different Techniques by Location – Experimenting with various fishing methods and flies based on the unique conditions of each place
• Communicate With Other Fishers I Run Into – Engaging with experienced fishers to gain insights about the best fishing spots and techniques

Final Thoughts

Not every fishing trip results in a great catch, but every experience provides an opportunity to learn and improve. My second fishing trip near Victoria, where I fished further down the Cowichan River and focused on brown trout, taught me even more about the process, even if I didn’t land a fish. By expanding my exploration to new fishing spots, I hope to find strategies for successful fishing and deepen my understanding of the sport. The adventure is just beginning!

Skutz Falls is located in Cowichan River Provincial Park on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. This area was recommended to fish at because it has many deep pools, is easily accessible and is known for a good place to land a fish. It is accessible by car, with parking available near the river. The falls themselves are part of the Cowichan River, which is a prime spot for salmon, trout, and steelhead fishing.

The Fishing Experience

The drive there is about an hour and a half from my house. It’s a super scenic drive that goes along the Malahat with twisting roads and towering trees. As I arrived, I hiked over to the bridge to see how the river looked and it looked awesome. Here is a photo I took:

As I was finding a pool to fish, I noticed a lot of them weren’t easy to access by walking and it would be better to boat the river, although this isn’t an option for me. I fished as many holes as I could and changed my hook multiple times, trying to figure out the best technique. Cast after cast, I switched up my technique, changed my fly, and tried different depths. Nothing. Not even a bite.

Fishing Techniques and Tips for Skutz Falls I Learned From Talking to Other Fishers

For those looking to fish Skutz Falls successfully, here are a few tips:

• Best Seasons: Fall and winter are ideal for catching salmon, while spring and summer are better for trout
• Recommended Gear: A spin rod or fly rod works well, depending on what you’re fishing for
• Best Baits & Lures: Salmon eggs, spoons, spinners, and artificial flies tend to work best
• Fishing Regulations: Be sure to check local regulations and obtain a valid BC fishing license before heading out
• Safety Tips: The current can be strong, so wading can be dangerous so be cautious

Reflections on the Trip

Hours passed, and my enthusiasm slowly gave way to the humbling realization that today might not be my day. Everyone I talked to along the river were in the same boat as me so I kept my head up and thought that maybe this just wasn’t a good day for fishing.

The one downside about fishing here was the smell. There was tons of dead salmon due to spawning season. Part of the coho salmon life-cycle is that after they reproduce, they die. Their bodies wash up on shore or are brought up by predators and they begin to rot which causes a bad smell.

As I was hiking back to my car there was less focus on the empty hook and more on the experience itself. I went out with my boyfriend so overall it was nice to just get out and spend time together and enjoy being outside—there was something deeply rewarding about it all even though I didn’t catch anything.

Sometimes fishing isn’t about catching fish. It’s about being present, learning patience, and appreciating the moments in between. As I packed up and took one last look at Skutz Falls, I knew I’d be back. Because every empty-handed trip is just a step closer to the next great catch.

I grew up fishing in Cranbrook, BC which is a lot different than Victoria so my first step to my inquiry project was figuring out what type of fish are here, what rivers they are on, the fishing regulations, and how to be successful in catching them.

In Cranbrook I mostly fish for bull trout and cut throat trout. In this picture I am holding a bull trout that I caught last summer. I am used to fishing in the summer so being able to fish in the winter in Victoria is a lot different than what I am used to. Because there is different fish in Victoria and it’s a different season than I am used to, I have to find out different methods for fishing the rivers.

My first step was to go to the fly shop and ask about the rivers around here, the fish, and what set up I would need to catch them. I learned that there are also cut throat in the area, but I wanted to try catching a new type of fish. I was told that there was also brown trout and steelhead which I had the most interest in. My current line and rod that I had would work, I just had to get some new flies. I learned that bright colours like pink, orange, and blue are great for steelhead. The ones I decided to get are called tube flies and they are meant to imitate prey items like bugs or other small fish. I was told a few different river names to try out which include, Cowichan River, San Juan River, and Stamp River.

Since I am fishing in a new region (region 1, Cranbrook was region 4), I needed to find out the regulations for this region. Similar to region 4 and everywhere in BC, a single barbless hook is mandatory. The regulations will vary depending on the river I fish and I will have to check into them on each of my trips. Although my current fishing licence was valid, I needed a species tag if I wanted to fish for steelhead so I had to purchase one.

Now that I have a good idea of what it is like to fish in Victoria area, my next plan to my free inquiry is to try fishing Skutz Falls on the Cowichan River.