Cowichan River, Cowichan Valley, British Columbia
With fall fast approaching one of the highlights of this region are the salmon runs that occur in many of our rivers. In Goldstream Provincial Park and in many areas of the Cowichan River the salmon appear about mid-October and may be viewed for about ten weeks. These dates vary from year to year but I have never been disappointed during this peak period. It is the Chum salmon that is most abundant in this river, Coho and Chinook salmon may also be seen as well as the Steelhead and Cutthroat trout.
The best viewing area by far is Goldstream Provincial Park although this is where the crowds appear every weekend. One of my favourite areas is Skutz Falls on the upper Cowichan River. As well as the salmon, keep your eye out for other birds and mammals feasting on the salmon. Black bears may be seen in some remote areas and gulls frequent the sand bars and trees surrounding the rivers. The Bald Eagle is common, especially later in the year when many dead fish are on the banks.
Goldstream River Salmon Run, Goldstream Provincial Park, British Columbia
Goldstream River Salmon Run, Goldstream Provincial Park, British Columbia
Gulls, Cowichan River Provincial Park, Cowichan Valley, British Columbia
Salmon Run, Cowichan River Provincial Park, Cowichan Valley, British Columbia
