It’s hard to believe, but we’re already into the second half of July!  Our 5^th group of guests arrived today, keen and excited to get out on the water.  A significant change in our arrival program this summer is being very well received. Arriving guests enjoy their brunch in the Bell Ringer café, after having met their guide and getting a brief orientation. Once they’re off the helicopter, the top priority for most guests is to get in a boat!  So, our new program is a huge step in the right direction.  Plus, our departing guests can enjoy a nice, relaxed breakfast in the lodge without the inflow of new guests arriving.  It’s a real win/win for everyone.

Out on the water, an excellent fishing season continues.  Coho and Chinook salmon are feeding heavily on both herring and needlefish in Virago Sound.  We’re also finding pinks, chum and even the odd sockeye in the mix.  Humpback whales have been feeding continuously in the area and anglers are loving the occasional acrobatics as they lunge feed, tail slap and sometimes, explode from the depths in a full breach.  Northern resident orcas have been in the area quite a bit as well this month, taking advantage of the concentration of bait and salmon.  Experiencing the presence of these whales while we’re out on the water is really the definition of “awesome.”  It truly leaves visitors feeling a special appreciation for the natural world around us.