Ryan Cutler observed the foamy ocean waters from his residence near Salmon Beach on Vancouver Island’s west coast last week, signaling the start of the herring spawn. Cutler, excited by the spectacle, described it as a remarkable time to witness. Deploying his drone, Cutler captured the milky blue-green water, a distinctive indication of herring congregating to reproduce in the shallow coastal bays.

The herring spawn is a significant event for Vancouver Island and the South Coast, symbolizing the arrival of spring and a time for coastal First Nations to gather food. This period is crucial for marine conservationists to monitor the declining numbers of these oily fish due to historical overfishing.

Herring, a pivotal species, assemble in large groups for reproduction. Females deposit eggs on kelp and eelgrass, while males release milt, creating the characteristic milky appearance of the water. Cutler noted the signs of staging, where herring gather and prepare to spawn, were visible for weeks before the event. The area saw sea lions congregating, eagles soaring, and humpback whales swimming, indicating the abundance of wildlife during this feast.

Nick Chowdhury, president of the Island Marine Aquatic Working Group, emphasized the importance of the herring spawn for coastal First Nations, marking a significant seasonal transition. Tracking the spawn through their Facebook page aids in evaluating fish stocks and monitoring the return of spawn to previously unoccupied areas.

Shirley Louie, a seasoned fisher from the Stz’uminus First Nation, became involved in learning about herring a few years ago during a documentary project with the Q’ul-lhanumutsun Aquatic Resources Society. The society, representing six Coast Salish First Nations, focuses on aquatic resource management, including herring. Louie’s experience with cleaning and preparing herring, alongside traditional methods like smoking or frying, highlights the cultural significance of these practices in indigenous communities.