Haida Gwaii Archives - Queen Charlotte Lodge

There’s something about sharing a meal with those you love, especially if you’ve prepared it yourself. Now pair that with this incredible seared scallop recipe, and it makes for an amazing dinner to send off the summer.

Materials

Romesco

60g Raw Hazelnuts
54g Slivered Almonds
1 small can | Diced Fire Roasted Tomatoes, drained
1 small jar | Roasted Red Peppers, drained
3 Garlic Cloves
30ml Sherry Vinegar or Red Wine Vinegar
2g Smoked Paprika
2g Kosher Salt
75ml Olive Oil

Scallops

10 large Scallops, of choice
Few knobs of Butter for basting
Salt + Pepper, to taste

Method

Toast nuts in dry pan
Place toasted nuts and remaining romesco ingredients in a food processor, pulse until smooth
In a hot skillet, sear scallops on both sides
After a hard sear, place butter in pan and baste scallops
Nicely smear the romesco on your plate, top with warm scallops
Enjoy!

It is truly amazing how fast 3 months can fly by in Naden Harbour, it feels like just yesterday we were arriving for a week of training.

As we head into the final stretch of the season, big smiles are still to be found all around.

August has recently brought some sunny weather, and fishing has seen a great improvement after the extremely large tides experienced by the supermoon. During these large tides, the bite windows were smaller but anglers still managed to capitalize on opportunities, filling their boxes with both Chinook and Coho.

The majority are staying between Yahtze Bay, Bird 2 and Parker these days. It’s a welcomed change seeing boats find success at the inshore points again. Common depths inshore are between 25 and 45, depending on which spot you are at. Today a lucky angler was able to wrestle a large Chinook salmon at Parker Point and released it after being taped out to 40lbs. We love to see the big ones get to swim away!

Those fishing offshore for Coho, the Pinnacles, at common depths of 55 and 67, are working great. Even down as far as 100 can produce offshore Chinook and Coho. The odd especially big Coho, of 12+ pounds, are showing up and we’ve seen a few 14/15 pounders arrive at the Dock.

It will be sad to wrap up the 2024 season, it’s come and gone so quickly, but it’s been one for the books and even after a decade (plus) I still love every minute of it.

Can’t wait to see you all next year for more fishing first class.

QCL Lead Guide, Ryan Kelly

The doors close and a loud roar comes from the engine. The rotor above starts to spin. This is it, just a 10-minute ride and I am finally there. As we take off, the excitement starts to build. I had never been in a helicopter before now.

Ripping through the sky over an untouched part of the earth, and suddenly a large red roof is visible in the distance. With a friendly wave from all the staff and a firm handshake from the owners upon landing, I made it to QCL.

Down at the Dock, I was introduced to my guide and after a quick brunch, we were off. Just a short ride to the fishing grounds, our lines were in the water. We were sitting there chatting when, out of the corner of my eye, a rod starts to move. I jumped up and pulled the rod out of the holder.

The world around me seemed to fade away as if myself and the salmon were the only ones around for miles. It runs, then I reel. It comes close to the boat, then runs again. Playing my first Chinook was a thrill and just like the fish on my line, I was hooked.

In between bites, you really start to notice the beauty of Haida Gwaii and all the wildlife that lives here. What sounded like a tire deflating really fast, came from behind us. A pod of Humpbacks had come to say hello.

Back at the Lodge, the attention to detail is very apparent. After a long day of working hard on the water, we were greeted with a smile and a hot towel. And at the Bell Ringer, where the Dock turns into a lively bar, weighed our catch while snacking on Apres Peche and cocktail.

DING! DING! DING! The bell began to ring. Someone caught a Tyee! Celebration erupted and the atmosphere couldn’t get any better.

Dinner was truly a fine dining experience. The food, the service, the ambiance was above and beyond. When at QCL, you can rest assured, you will not go hungry.

To say the Lodge exceeded expectations would be an understatement. For such a large operation it still is and feels like a family-run business. All staff worked together to give us the best trip possible. And let’s not forget all the fish coming home to share with friends and family.

The rotor is spinning again. 4 days just flew by and I can’t wait to come back. They say the QCL Experience is like nothing else, and I can attest to that after only my first visit.

We’re nearing the tail end of the 2024 fishing season in Area 1. Following a bout of strong Northwest winds, the final weeks have shaped up with calmer seas and a welcome touch of sunshine.

Inshore Chinook fishing has been a bit challenging, but patience and the right timing have occasionally paid off with some impressive catches. Despite the slow pace, this “Hogust” has still yielded some notable fish, including a 45-pounder, a 37-pounder, and a 36-pounder, with a few others inching towards the Tyee range.

On a brighter note, larger Coho in the 10lbs+ range are becoming more common offshore. So, while inshore action might be slow, there are still plenty of opportunities for a memorable fishing experience.

Here’s to making the most of the remainder of the 2024 season. Tight lines and cheers to a fantastic end of summer!

QCL Guide, Sebastien Archambault

With only a few weeks left in our 2024 season, fishing has been pretty exciting for the fleet of boats at QCL.

Over the past week we have had a large amount of pink salmon invade the grounds. But not to worry, we have also been seeing a slight increase in numbers of Chinook the past few days, varying in all sizes. A number of Chinook over 30lbs (what is known as a Tyee) have been found tight into shore – Hot spots such as Cape Naden and Parker Pt. seem to have the fishiest activity during a good ebb tide. Herring behind a daisy chain and anchovy behind a green dummy flashed rig have been my go-to’s!

Lots of bait has been pushed in with the flood, condensing at Bird 2 or Naden.

The weather has been awesome, days lately filled with mostly clear, sunny skies. We are in Haida Gwaii after all though, so don’t forget to pack your rain gear! Variable wind speeds coming out of the NW seem to be what we’re going to experience for the next little bit.

Whales are always around, we were pleasantly surprised by a large Grey Whale going from point to point down the west side the other day! Smaller pods of resident Orcas have been seen kicking around the 150ft line off Shag.

Tight Lines!

QCL Guide, Markus Egeland

August has burst onto the scene with a thrilling mix of sizzling weather and spectacular fishing action! The sun has been blazing in clear skies, with temperatures increasing daily. The warm air has been met with some lively Northwestern winds, making the seas a bit choppy, but these winds are beneficial for our fishing grounds. They push bait fish and salmon closer to our inshore points, igniting a salmon fishing frenzy.

As the water temperature rises, it’s not just the salmon that are active; there are semi-frequent encounters with salmon sharks that add an extra thrill to each outing. The Chinook salmon action has been nothing short of electrifying, with fast-paced bursts of bites delivering multiple fish in a short time. The trick is to be patient and stay at your hotspot, as the action comes in intense flurries. So far, the August Chinook are bigger and more abundant, living up to the legendary Hogust reputation. On August 5th, we saw four Tyees weighing 44, 42, 32, and 31 pounds.

Coho salmon are beginning to inch closer to shore, allowing you to stay inshore for those exhilarating Chinook snap bites while filling your fish box. Offshore, the Coho are still plentiful and eager, making for fantastic fishing adventures.

Halibut fishing continues to impress, with a steady stream of nice-sized chickens, some hefty overs, and even over-overs making an appearance.

Now is the perfect time to experience fishing first class at QCL.

We can’t wait to see you on the water, tight lines!

QCL Guide, Hunter Hieta

Becoming a fishing guide isn’t just a career choice; it’s a testament to one’s patience, passion, and love for the sport.

Many people often ask me, “Why do you want to be a fishing guide?” and for me, the answer is simple. It’s the thrill of the fight and the mystery of not knowing what’s at the end of your line.

The Thrill of the Fight

There’s an indescribable excitement that comes with fishing. Every tack holds the promise of a new adventure. The moment you feel that tug on the line, your heart starts racing. Is it a giant salmon or a feisty halibut? The anticipation and the battle that ensues is what makes fishing so exhilarating. It’s a dance between you and nature, a test of skill, patience, and perseverance.

For me, becoming a saltwater fishing guide is more than just pursuing a passion—it’s about loving your job. I come from a long history of fishing guides and growing up, my family spent countless hours on the water, sharing stories, teaching techniques, and instilling in me a deep respect for the ocean and its inhabitants.

Learning from the Best

I’ve had the privilege of learning from the best—my family, co workers and even guests. They’ve taught me everything I know about fishing, from tying knots and reading the water, to understanding fish behavior and mastering the art of patience. These skills, passed down through generations, have shaped me into the angler I am today.

Inspiring Stories

One of my most cherished memories is of my grandfather, a seasoned fishing guide, recounting the tale of the “one that got away.” His eyes would light up with excitement as he described the massive fish that put up an epic fight before finally breaking free. These stories, are told by so many, filled with passion and adventure, ignited my desire to create my own.

The Journey Ahead

As we all embark on this journey to become a saltwater fishing guide, I know I get to carry with me the wisdom and experiences of my family. I’m excited to share my love for fishing with so many guests, to teach them the skills I’ve learned, and to create unforgettable memories on the water.

Becoming a fishing guide is not just about the thrill of the catch; it’s about the journey, the stories, and the memories of others that lives on through each and every fish. For me, it’s about following in my family’s footsteps and continuing the tradition of sharing the joy of fishing with others.

Tight lines,

QCL Guide, Karly Barker

Chinook salmon continue to be elusive but are growing larger each week. Recent updates to the regulations now allow for two Chinook per day and a total of four. Our last trip yielded several impressive Tyees, including a notable 39-pounder that was successfully released at Green Point.

For those heading offshore, Coho salmon are available and active. Fishing in deeper waters with inline flashers has been the go to this season for many anglers.

The halibut fishing has been exceptional lately. Last trip, we had numerous large halibut, including a massive 260-pounder. It’s been a fantastic time for halibut enthusiasts!

Weather this past week featured calm waters and numerous whale sightings, creating a picturesque fishing environment. However, we are prepared for a change as this week is expected to bring strong Northwest winds, which hopefully push more bait and fish into our grounds!

Tight lines, we’ll see you on the water!

QCL Guide, Alex Walker

While you might come to QCL for the fishing, you’ll find that every additional aspect of your experience is unlike any other. And when it comes to our dining programs, there is an option for everyone.

Between the Main Lodge, Hook Bar, Bell Ringer, The Buoy and our Private Houses – our hospitality team creates dishes and experiences that leave you with just as many lifelong memories as your fishing will.

The Main Lodge offers an exceptional and unique dining program, featuring both buffet and a la carte style services, morning and night. Featuring globally inspired flavours and dishes, the QCL Chefs has created menus and treats that will have you asking for the recipe.

Not only do we have an exceptional dining program within the Main Lodge, but we also offer semi-private dining opportunities that allow you to experience something different.

The Bell Ringer

For those that are looking for something quintessentially QCL, we offer the Bell Ringer Seafood Boil. Introduced to the program some years ago, this dinner is by reservation only and always a crowd pleaser. Available at an additional cost per guest, this semi-private Bell Ringer Seafood Boil dinner is served on the Dock, an experience unlike any other. Casual, vibrant and mouth-watering.

The Buoy – A Japanese Experience.

In collaboration between several QCL departments one off-season, The Buoy emerged and swiftly became what it is today – a Japanese Inspired Experience. Offering an intimate and personalized experience, the Buoy is by reservation only, at an additional cost per guest. This venue can accommodate up to 8 guests, per seating, with seating’s offered at 7:00pm and 9:00pm exclusively. Contact the QCL Concierge Team to book your seat!

Aside from our evening dining programs, you can anticipate to indulge at multiple other venues throughout your stay! Enjoy some lunch onboard the Hook Bar Grill located on the M.V. Driftwood anchored in the middle of our fishing grounds. Or, when you return from fishing take advantage of our Après Peche programs including snacks at the Bell Ringer and a Sushi cart that is located at the front of the Main Lodge.

For those looking for the next level of hospitality offered at QCL, inquire about our private houses. Totem and Charlotte House are the perfect venue for a truly curated experience.

Although you might come to QCL for the fishing, you’ll leave knowing that it’s so much more.

Midway through the season, and there’s lots of fun to be had just outside of Naden Harbour!

Cohos are plentiful at the Pinnacles, eating hoochies 30-50 feet deep. The Halibut fishing has been fantastic, with plenty of “overs” being released. Lingcod fishing has seen the effects of many anglers harvesting trip in and trip out, but this trip alone saw 14 pin-worthy fish, largest coming in at 38lbs. Chinook fishing has been slow, but for those willing to put in the time, some anglers have been rewarded with fish in the Tyee class. The big story yesterday was a 58lbs Chinook caught at B2 after an hour long fight.

The wind has laid right down for us this past week, and should continue for this next trip. The sun has been come and go, along with some rain and fog but that doesn’t bother us. So long as the wind keeps down, we’ve got a shot at a huge Chinook salmon!

Lead Guide, Liam Longacre

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Kingfisher Report | August 31, 2024

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Kingfisher Report | August 27, 2024

Kingfisher Report | August 12, 2024

Kingfisher Report | August 8, 2024

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Kingfisher Report | August 3, 2024

Providing Dining, First Class

Kingfisher Report | July 22, 2024

QCL Signatures Series | Tom Yum Baked Lingcod

QCL Signatures Series | Seared Scallops with Romesco

Thank You | QCL Crew

A Wrap on 2024

Kingfisher Report | August 31, 2024