CatchWindow fishing intelligence

Tofino Harbour, BC Daily Water Report — August 27, 2026

Surfing is today’s standout play on Tofino Harbour, and if you have a window around mid-afternoon, take it. The 1.1-metre calmest wave period hits near 17:00, winds remain manageable out of the west at 5 knots, and the swell from 206 degrees at 0.86 metres with a 4.6-second period gives you short, punchy lines that favour a shorter board. Yesterday’s surfing score was quite a bit higher at 8.9, but that came with bigger swell and lighter wind; today trades a little power for cleaner, less chaotic conditions. The morning rain band, forecast from 05:00 to 11:00, might keep you off the water early, but by the time the sky clears and the pressure keeps rising from 1013 to 1018 hPa, the harbour should settle nicely. Boating scores a solid 6.9, which is a significant step down from the 8.3 and 8.4 we saw on the 25th and 24th, but still a respectable day if you’re launching from the harbour. The wind range tops out near 10 knots, and the strongest gust of 18 knots arrives at 06:00, so early-morning trips will feel the breeze more than midday or late afternoon. Keep an eye on the standing water temperature of 14.9°C, which is notably warmer than the 12.6°C measured two days ago and sits a full 1.2°C above the historical average for late August. That warmth, combined with very high chlorophyll readings and bloom conditions, suggests you’ll see some colour change in the water—nothing alarming, just visibility shifts that divers and anglers should factor in. Fishing at 6.6 is a touch below yesterday’s 7.7, and the solunar major period from 11:49 to 13:49 lines up nicely with that midday calm window. The rising barometer and light west wind are favourable, but the 100% cloud cover and persistent moisture mean fish might be a little more sluggish through the morning. Diving scores 6.4, down slightly from 6.7 yesterday, and the bloom signal from the chlorophyll data is your main consideration—underwater visibility will likely be reduced compared to a clear-water day. Wildlife watchers get a 6.8, which is a respectable score but down significantly from the 8.5 and 8.3 we saw the previous two days, likely because the wind and cloud aren’t ideal for surface activity. Looking ahead, Friday sees similar wave heights with lighter winds and a 35% chance of rain, making it a near-repeat of today. Saturday’s wind picks up to 14 knots, so boating and kayaking scores will likely drop. By Sunday and Monday, winds ease again below 5 knots, but rain chances climb above 50%. Tuesday and Wednesday bring building seas and gusty conditions, so this afternoon’s window—where the harbour turns glassy under a waxing gibbous moon and grey skies—is your best bet for the rest of the week.