Old Dog, New Water – Tips for Comox Area

[GAW]

Hey folks, I’m hoping to get a bit of advice from those with more experience fishing the Comox/Courtenay area. I recently got back into fishing after a couple decades away. I grew up fishing the west coast with my old man, but I’m new to this side of the Island and running a smaller 16.5’ boat.

I’m mainly looking to get a handle on local safety considerations when fishing - wind and current vs a boat this size. Are there better or worse areas to target on given wind conditions and under what conditions should I not bother launching. I’m not asking for anyone’s hard-earned spots—I know those come with time and miles—but I’d sure appreciate any general tips and advice that could help a guy get started and stay safe out there. Thanks in advance for any guidance.

 

[Howzer]

I'll start...

1. In sunny summer, winds can be relatively calm until 11am/ noon, then build up to the point it could be uncomfortable, even dangerous for a vessel your size.
2. Carry, or ensure you have a working vhf radio along with maybe a waterproof bag for your cellphone.
3. Current tables books are download-able here: https://charts.gc.ca/publications/tables-eng.html. Don't forget to add one hour for summer DST.

 

[GAW]

Thanks @Howzer much appreciated.

 

[mayday]

I'll add to the safety bit ( I also run a 16.5 hourston) - a NW is usually a what you see is what you get - a SE is a bit different and can "sneak up" on you - especially if you are out at Kitty Coleman ( prime spot) - by the time you feel the tickle of it building, by the time you get back to Lazo, it can be REALLY nasty. So if SE in any part of the forecast, stay out front of pt.holmes or near denman/hornby and pull the plug early

 

[GAW]

I was kinda wondering how those different directions played out, thanks @mayday I'll keep that in mind for sure.

 

[Redders]

I was kinda wondering how those different directions played out, thanks @mayday I'll keep that in mind for sure.

Sent you a Pm

 

[Esperanza-time]

Actually it’s the opposite for the high pressure nice summer weather.
We get heavy NW all night, so usually pretty rough all morning ,calms around 10am, flat like a lake by noon! It’ll start up again before dark or early some times.
The surprise SE isn’t fun, just keep an eye out down the straights, if you see a black line forming, pick up and go in!
As for fishing just follow the pack, very easy fishing in these parts.
Just be prepared to fish deep, 18-20lb rigger balls are a must, trolling 200-300ft is the norm.
Not super fun but productive!