The Greater Victoria Pink Salmon Festival introduces children and families to the incredible experience of salmon fishing. On Sunday, August 21, 2011, 60 volunteer skippers, charter boat operators and recreational fishers will share the joy of salmon fishing on BC’s beautiful west coast. With 130 children aged 8 to 15, the goal is to provide a new, unique experience for kids who otherwise would not have the opportunity to get out on the water.
“It’s great to see the smiles on their faces as they board their boats to head out on the Pacific Ocean, not to mention their excitement and sheer delight as they reel in their first fish,” says Event Chair Shannon Wilkinson. “These moments can create memories that last a lifetime – it’s a really inspiring thing to be a part of.”
The Pink Salmon Festival was founded in 2001 by Laurie McBride, a local fisherman who wanted to create a salmon fishing event similar to the BC Family Fishing Day for freshwater angling. McBride’s idea was to introduce kids to saltwater fishing, and six months later, the inaugural festival drew an impressive 35 volunteer skippers and 70 ecstatic kids.
Boats will leave from Pedder Bay RV Resort & Marina, Jock’s Dock (Sooke) and Cheanuh Marina between 10am – 12pm. After three hours of serious salmon action, participants will return to Pedder Bay in beautiful Metchosin between 2:30 and 3pm with their prized catch. The fun family barbeque begins at 3pm with music, games, and lots of awards, thanks entirely to the generosity of the Greater Victoria community.
Sponsors of the Greater Victoria Island Pink Salmon Festival include: 100.3 the Q, Victoria Times Colonist, Bill Wright Excavating, Davey Derby, Fabian Quocksister, Island Outfitters, Pedder Bay RV Resort and Marina, Juan DeFuca Derby, Oak Bay Marine Group, O’Ki Tackle Manufacturing Ltd, Sooke Home Hardware, The TDL Group Corp. (Tim Horton’s), West Shore Parks and Recreation, West Shore Sports fishing, and many more. For the complete list of generous sponsors please visit www.pinksalmonfestival.org.
Accommodations
