Skip to content

Rising creek levels signal return of salmon to qathet

Mix of sun and cloud today, but rain in the forecast for Wednesday
3004_salmon_willingdon
SALMON RUN: Heavy rains, and a steady supply of cool, fresh water signals to salmon to return to spawn. The photo above was taken at the creek near Willingdon Beach.

The Weatherhood app is forecasting a mix of sun and cloud in the qathet region for today, Tuesday, October 29, and a high temperature of 10 degrees Celsius at noon. Sunset is at 6:01 pm tonight and will rise at 8:03 am on Wednesday morning.

On Wednesday, October 30, there is an 85 per cent chance of rain in the afternoon and Thursday, October 31, there will be a mix of sun and cloud with a slight chance of showers in the afternoon/evening.

Sunday, November 3, is when Daylight Saving Time ends and local standard time kicks in. Whether or not folks love or hate the time change, the sunrise and sunset will be about one hour earlier on November 3 than the day before. There will be more light in the morning and less light in the evening.

Folks visiting creeks around qathet may notice salmon fighting to get upstream in order to spawn. According to Sunshine Coast Tourism, British Columbia is one of the only places in North America where all five species of wild salmon thrive.

"Salmon are vital to the health of forests, and provide food for orcas, bears, eagles and people, while their nutrient-rich bodies fertilize the soil."

Tips for safely viewing salmon:

Do not disturb salmon, streams, or stream beds.

Streambeds often contain redds (nests of salmon eggs) and walking in shallow water will disturb fish and can kill their eggs. 

Approach streams quietly and cautiously, and keep a healthy distance.

Avoid wearing bright colours, which can cause undue stress to salmon.

Join the Peak’s email list for the top headlines right in your inbox Monday to Friday.