When I first moved to Tofino back in 1980 I had spent two years commercial fishing on the coast of B.C. from the west coast of Vancouver Island to the Alaska border and sightings of Humpback whales were rare. I recall back in the mid 80's that we had to travel far off shore in September to see these beautiful creatures.

Many have raised a world awareness to the plight of the small numbers of humpback whales left in the world. With much care and attention to these awesome creatures they have increased in numbers to the point where they can be seen within the surf line on the west coast of Vancouver Island. I have had the incredible experience of fishing near Tofino with Humpback whales very close to our boat. This experience can leave one feeling very small and vulnerable and yet so very excited. I've also watched the humpbacks breaching in the summer months near the mouth of Rivers Inlet, another beautiful area about midcoast not to far from Bella Bella.

It is my desire that many who take the time to get out on the ocean can enjoy being near one of these Humpback Whales. If the ocean is just too terrifying to venture out then a good pair of binoculars or a spotting scope will allow you to see one from a good vantage point on shore.

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