SALT WATER

We are located one kilometre north of Nile Creek, one of the best fly fishing areas on the island. Beginning in mid-August, fly fisherman come to fish for salmon, right from the shores of Qualicum Bay and Bowser. Schools of fish often go up and down Qualicum Bay, making the OVH a perfect place for your fishing trip. Fisherman can be seen casting from shore on most days in the fall, some right in front of the house.You can do your spotting from the house and then grap your gear and go.

For up to date fishing results of the area or what lures are working, check out the Nile Creek Fly Shop website. Courtney is our local expert on fly fishing and he can set you up with the right equipment or take you out for the excursion of a lifetime. Courtney and Val can be reached at 250-757-2095.

Experience the thrill of hooking and landing a chinook, sockeye, coho, pink or chum salmon.If you would rather challenge the fish on your own, you can rent boats and tackle, or launch your own from a number of the marinas in the region. Fishing licenses are available at most local sporting goods shops or the tackle shops located at the main harbours, and chances are you can find out what bait is working, and where they're biting, by talking to locals. Why make Oceanside your salmon fishing destination? Georgia Strait provides calm waters most of the time…. No big swells like many other areas on the Island.

FRESH WATER

Fly-fishing is excellent in the rivers and lakes of the area. The Little Qualicum River has some of the best pools around, with rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout lurking just below the surface. Horne and Cameron Lakes are home to Brook, Rainbow, Cutthroat, Kokanee trout and steelhead. On Spider Lake, go after bass, char, or Dolly Varden. It's important to check fishing regulations before heading out, as seasonal and gear restrictions are in effect and a licence is required.

CLAMS & SHELLFISH

For many, delicious clams and oysters are the ultimate prize that comes out of the ocean, and best

of all, they don't require a boat or fishing tackle. Depending on the time of year and water conditions, certain areas may be closed to shellfish harvest. All you need is a pail, a shovel and a permit. For daily limits, best to check with the Visitor InfoCentres before you plan your clambake!

BEACHCOMBING

It doesn't matter how old you are, or where you come from. With very little practice, anyone can become an expert beachcomber. With over 19 kilometres of sandy beach, four major river estuaries, and hundreds of coves to explore, the shoreline of Oceanside from Nanoose to Deep Bay beckons with tidal pools full of starfish and sand dollars, and over 250 species of birds.

Take your shoes off, along with your worries, and just relax and enjoy the moment as your toes sink into the warm sands and get gently caressed by the ocean. You straddle two worlds now, land and sea. Leave the shore behind and head for adventure on the water.

Please remember that the sand dollars and starfish are living creatures and should not be removed from their natural habitat.

Links

Recreational Fishing License Information

Salmon and Halibut Fishing

Salmoneye

Good Times Salmon Charters