Taste of B-Sea Archives - Page 3 of 4

Summer is almost upon us, and with summer comes first class fishing trips and fish you can turn into delicacies. The warm weather of the summer calls for our chef’s salmon burgers, to be enjoyed on the patio with friends. Don’t forget to tell them how you brought this one into the boat, among your other fishing tales!

Materials

650g of skinless salmon *This is a great way to use salmon scraps
2 shallots, finely diced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 egg
50g Breadcrumbs
10g Pickles, chopped
15g Capers, chopped
2g Fresh Dill, chopped
5ml Worcestershire sauce
5ml Tabasco sauce
S+P to taste

Method

Place salmon in a food processor or chop by hand. Pieces should be small, but not fine as you want to have chunks.
Mix chopped salmon and all other ingredients together in large bowl.
Scoop small spoonful of mixture in small pan with a few drops of oil and cook to taste, adjust seasoning and taste again
Form salmon patties on small squares of parchment paper to ease transfer to cooking pan
Heat large pan with natural oil of choice, sear both sides, and cook salmon patties until desired doneness.
Serve on warmed bun with topping and sides of choice.
Enjoy!

Don’t worry if you’ve moved through your supply of QCL caught fish already, our Taste of B-Sea program runs year round. The finest quality fish and shellfish, these products are Ocean Wise and come from some of the most sustainable fisheries in the world using the most eco-friendly fishing methods.

To learn more and to place your order, contact us | 1-800-688-8959

The fishing scene is starting to heat up!

Chinook salmon are stealing the spotlight, ranging from 10 to 15 pounds, these beauties are keeping anglers on their toes. With the occasional 20+ pounder adding excitement to the mix and cheers in the Bell Ringer. Coho and Chum salmon are also making appearances, adding variety to the catch. Despite intermittent rain during the week, the weekend has brought clear skies and sunshine, perfect for a day out on the water.

As the annual Kingfisher Derby unfolds, anticipation is high among anglers vying for the winning hog and its coveted prize. Popular fishing points such as Klash, Eagle, Green, Naden, and Edenshaw are bustling with activity as enthusiasts try their luck. With the weather on our side and the fish biting, it’s shaping up to be a memorable season for fishing enthusiasts.

QCL Guide, Mackenzie Adam

The Kingfisher Derby is our annual fishing derby, hosted by QCL. With competition and spirits high, it always makes for a great trip at the Lodge. Inquire with our Sales Executives about 2025’s derby, entrance fee and more by calling now | 1-800-688-8959

Welcome to the 2024 Season, It’s a Guide’s Life, blog series.

A little different than our Kingfisher Report, this blog will provide insights into what a day in the life of a guide at Queen Charlotte Lodge entails! Whether it be a big fish, amazing wildlife or just a great day with guests having fun. For this first entry I wanted to share what my favorite part of the day is and surprisingly it happens before even hitting the water.

Each morning, the excitement of every angler and guide on the dock is truly amazing – No matter the weather or the misfortune of a lost fish from the day prior.

Every day is a chance at the fish of a lifetime. The enthusiasm and optimism is what keeps bringing me back.

I look forward to seeing you all, every morning, and talking about what spot we are headed to! Keep an eye out for all the fishing tales coming your way over the course of our first class fishing season.

Lead Guide, Ryan Kelly

Whether this will be your first visit to QCL, or your tenth, we know this time of year brings anticipation of a productive fishing and incredible memories.

Our Concierge team is working to connect with each group lead to ensure that your QCL Experience is planned to a tee. Let us worry about the details – arrive as you are and enjoy all the we have to offer.

As you await your trip, spend some time familiarizing yourself with common fishing terms and our Angler Orientation video. The below terms are frequently used on the boats and are a good starting point for those new to fishing to ensure you understand some of the basics upon arrival.

Right Rod to the Rock | When there are multiple boats fishing one particular point, we like to fish “right rod to the rock.” Meaning a boat that has its starboard side or has its right side of the boat closest to the shore, has the right of way to fish closest to the structure/kelp bed/shoreline. This helps to keep boat traffic moving smoothly while trolling and helps prevent boats and anglers from cutting each other off while trying to fish the inside pass.

Trolling | Trolling is a method of fishing where the boat is moving at various slower speeds while towing fishing lines. Most commonly to target salmon on our fishing grounds, your fishing lines can be attached to a downrigger or through the use of weighted rods in a style of fishing called mooching, to fish various depths.

Mooching | Mooching is a style of salmon fishing where lead weights, typically 4 to 10 oz’s., are attached to the fishing line, above the leader, to get the bait/hooks down to a desired depth. Mooching does not use downriggers and typically a cut plug herring is used as bait.

Back Rod | A back rod is used in the stern (back) of the boat as an additional or extra rod while trolling. Not attached to a downrigger, your backrod will have a banana weight or sliding weight attached to the fishing line above the leader. Commonly fished in the top 10 or 15 feet of the water column.

Jigging | A method of fishing used primarily for bottom fishing. A weighted lure, known as a jig, is dropped to the ocean floor , while attached to a fishing line, and is moved up and down by the angler using a fishing rod, to entice a bite.

Dummy Flasher / In-line Flasher | A flasher is a piece of fishing tackle used to attract salmon while trolling. A flasher can be used as a dummy flasher, where it’s attached to your downrigger line or downrigger cannonball, using swivels and a few feet of thick monofilament or a flasher can also be used “in-line”, where the flasher is attached to one end of your fishing mainline and the other end attached to the leader line.

Pop the Clip | “Pop (or popping) the clip” refers to the motion of pulling your fishing line to release it out of the downrigger clip. There are a few methods to do this but the most common would be to reel your fishing line and rod tighter to the downrigger and while holding onto your fishing reel (to prevent line from spooling off of it), you lift the rod upwards to either set the hook on a fish or to bring in the line.

Let it go/Let it run/Hand off | Commonly said by QCL fishing guides, while their guest is playing a fish, these terms are used when a fish, most often a salmon, is trying to swim away from the angler and to prevent the line from breaking, one will take their reeling hand off of the reel, allowing the salmon to take line while still being hooked, which will tire the fish out. It should be noted that it is VERY important to still hold onto the fishing rod with your non reeling hand. “Let it go” does not mean let go of the rod.

Cut Plug | A presentation for salmon fishing using a herring as bait, where the head of the herring is cut off at certain angles, roughly 45 degrees and the ‘guts’ are removed. There are various ways to attach your hooks to a cut plug, but the cut plug herring will imitate a wounded baitfish moving through the water.

Tyee | Tyee is most commonly a term for a Chinook salmon which weighs 30 pounds or more. Any guest at QCL who catches a Tyee, released or kept, rings the Tyee bell at the Bell Ringer, and later presented a celebratory pin.

As these are only a handful of the terms used when fishing, please let us know if there is anything else you want to learn!

We’ll see you at the Dock!

We specialize in special moments. In making memories last a lifetime.

The QCL Experience is a simple way of describing a feeling so unique that it’s nearly indescribable. Every guest is different and whether your trip is a celebration, annual tradition, bucket list or simply a new adventure, we understand that every guests’ idea of the perfect trip varies. From the moment you call our office, to your arrival at the Lodge and beyond, our team works to tailor make your QCL Experience.

Our team strives to deliver unmatched hospitality by helping create treasured memories, throughout the entirety of your stay. With programs carefully designed to take full advantage of the unrivaled fishing opportunities, highlight the local flavours, and offer peace away from the busy world, the promise of a first class fishing experience awaits.

We work diligently for 8 months of the year to prepare for each season. Taking into consideration guest comments, reviewing previous season programs, and working towards what will make your next stay unforgettable. As we approach Opening Day, our Concierge Team is connecting with group leads to provide an overview of Lodge services and opportunities. They are available to plan the finer details of your trip, from unique dining options and custom apparel to spa treatments and more. All before you arrive at the Lodge!

And when the time comes, and you’re finally at QCL, we strive to deliver a sense of awe. Tucked away amongst the old growth and a short boat ride from the rugged coastline and incredible fishing. A place where modern-day travelers can revel in a taste of wilderness adventure that is perfectly blended with our warm, attentive hospitality that is delivered by our QCL team. Sharing a passion for delivering your first class fishing trip in a remote paradise. Each member of our team brings a piece of your QCL Experience to life.

The QCL Experience, a simple way to describe that distinctive feeling you get when you think about your first class fishing trip; the recognizable sense of home upon your return. It is our passion to ensure each of our guests leave having experienced memories that you want to share for a lifetime.

Our Back of House team has prepared another QCL Signatures Series dish for you to prepare at home! Whether you are enjoying with guests or family, this Chili Crab will enhance any dinner.

Materials

Dungeness Crab, broken down | 4
Shallots | 3
Ginger | 3-ince piece
Red Chilis | 3
Ketchup | 30ml
Shrimp Paste | 5ml
Cooking Oil | 30ml
Chicken Stock | 360ml
Rice Wine Vinegar | 30ml
Sweet Chili Sauce | 120g
Green Onion, chopped | 1
Butter | 50g
Soy Sauce | 30ml
Palm Sugar | 30ml

Method

In a food processor, add shallots, ginger, red chillies, garlic, ketchup, and shrimp paste. Pulse until it combined, forming a paste.
Heat oil in a wok over medium heat, add the chilli paste and cook for five minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the crab pieces into the wok and stir until they are fully coated. Allow the crab to absorb the flavours and colouring until it begins to turn red/orange in colour.
Add the tomato puree, chicken stock, rice wine vinegar, sweet chilli sauce, soy sauce and palm sugar, then stir until combined. The crab should be fully orange by now. Place a lid on top, allowing the mixture to simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove the crab legs and head, plating on a shallow dish.
Add butter and green onion to the sauce and stir to combine.
Pour the sauce on top of the plated crab, garnishing with cilantro.
Serve and enjoy!

To learn more and to place your order, contact us | 1-800-688-8959

As the winter months pass us by, we are back with another QCL Signature Series recipe. This time featuring Smoked Salmon, Beets and a Goat Cheese Dressing – A salad perfect for lunch or in addition to dinner.

Materials

3 Beets, medium sized
90ml Olive Oil
115g Goat Cheese
60ml Buttermilk
15ml White Wine Vinegar
5g fresh chopped Dill
200g sliced Smoked Salmon
150g Arugula
½ Avocado, sliced
2 Green Onions, sliced
½ Lemon

Method

Preheat oven to 400 F
Rub beets with 30ml of Olive Oil and Salt + Pepper
Once seasoned, place beets on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and roast in oven for 40 mins
Remove from oven, peel and slice (or dice) to your liking
In a food processor combine Goat Cheese, Buttermilk, White Wine Vinegar, Olive Oil, half of the Dill, and Salt + Pepper to taste. Mix until smooth.
Separate slices of the Smoked Salmon and sliced Avocado
Dress Arugula and Green Onions with dressing. Place on bottom of serving dish
Place Smoked Salmon, Beets, Avocado and remaining Dill on bed of Arugula
Drizzle with more Goat Cheese Dressing, to your liking, and finish with a squeeze of fresh Lemon

To learn more and to place your order, contact us | 1-800-688-8959

The New Year is officially in full swing and we’re here to bring you another QCL Signatures Series recipe.

Straight from our Chefs to you, the Herb Crusted Halibut. This recipe is nostalgic for us, as it was featured on our Main Lodge A La Carte menu, many years ago. Who remembers it?!

Change up your weeknight dinner routine with this Herb Crusted Halibut – Pair it with your favourite side dish and a glass of white! A quick, easy and delicious meal made with your QCL catch.

Materials

4x 170g Halibut Fillets
65g Panko
20g chopped Parsley
15g chopped Dill
15g chopped chives
15ml Olive Oil
5g Lemon Zest
6g Salt
2g Ground Black Pepper

Method

Preheat the oven to 375° F.
Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix all ingredients, except the halibut, together.
Pat dry halibut and lay out on baking sheet.
Generously spoon the bread crumb mixture fillets and lightly press.
Bake in the oven until crumb topping is lightly browned and fish flakes easily with a fork, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

Serve and enjoy with your loved ones!

Don’t worry if you’ve moved through your delicious catch already, our Taste of B-Sea program runs year round. The finest quality fish and shellfish, these products are Ocean Wise and come from some of the most sustainable fisheries in the world using the most eco-friendly fishing methods.

To learn more and to place your order, contact us | 1-800-688-8959

The holiday season is fast approaching and with that so do the holiday get-togethers, dinners, and celebrations. And while the Lodge does not operate throughout the winter months, our offices are busy in preparation for the upcoming season! Each month, in lead up to May, the buzz in the office becomes more energetic, more infectious – We already can’t wait to see you all again.

In preparation, our Food and Beverage team works diligently to curate the perfect wine. Pulling inspiration from prior years, guest interests and what is well revered in the industry, our team also works with our Head Chef to ensure the list developed best complements the flavours on your plate.

As we move into the holiday season, we are excited to share with you some QCL favourites.

Perfect to start off the day, a meal or a celebration, you can never go wrong with a sparkling wine.

Our go-to sparkling is the Mionetto Prestige Treviso Brut. A well-balanced dry sparkling that showcases a straw-coloured yellow hue. Aromas of golden apple, white peach, and honey. This Prosecco delivers a lively mouthfeel and a clean finish.

And, if you haven’t already been introduced to Lambrusco, we recommend checking it out! This sparkling red is a treat for your palate. The pale ruby colour and constant perlage feature aromas of apple, red fruits, and strawberries. Finishing dry with a hint of salt, this wine pairs well with conversation or a meal.

Pop the top and enjoy!

If you’re looking for something to pair with your holiday dinner, look no further than our very own backyard. British Columbia produces incredible wine. Support our local industry this holiday season with a wine paired perfectly with your turkey dinner.

Right in the heart of the Okanagan, sits Checkmate Winery. Producing only Chardonnay and Merlot, Checkmate focuses on the unique qualities that each vineyard brings to the table. For each style of wine the vinification (wine making) process remains the same in order to display the unique minerality that the different vineyards accent. While any of their Chardonnay’s will make the perfect accompaniment to your turkey dinner, our favourite is the Fool’s Mate. Complex with notes of stone fruit and graphite, the minerality developed a generous mouthfeel.

For a red option, look towards Code Estate, their Pinot Noir is the perfect twist to a classically white wine dish. This Pinot Noir features a silky-texture with aromas of cherry and raspberry. These evolve on the palate and finally, express a long finish with spice. A relatively new winery, Code is a family business that promotes bio-diversity through organic farming of their 10,000 vines.

Lastly, if you’re looking for something to simply enjoy on its own, we’ve got you covered.

Finally, fill your glass with our guest favourite red – Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon. Stunning with intense aromas of tobacco, dark chocolate shavings, black currants and hints of savoury notes. The layers this wine features will grace the palate along with a full body and balanced acidity.

Wines are created to enhance the special moments in life and we hope these help accentuate your holidays!

The best part of bringing your catch home is treating your loved ones to a delicious meal but we know cooking fish the same way can become tiresome. For that reason, our chefs’ have put together a new blog series for you! Learn mouth-watering ways to prepare your catch or Taste of B-Sea purchase.

Check out our signature Cedar Plank Salmon recipe below, and be sure to check back monthly for new featured recipes!

MATERIALS

Food Grade 16″ Cedar Plank
1-2 Chinook/Coho Salmon Whole Filet
1-2kg Tamari Gluten-Free Soy Sauce
1500ml Heavy Dark Maple Syrup

METHOD

Submerge your cedar plank in water overnight.
Combine syrup and soy sauce. Stir and reserve.
Leaving skin on, portion cut your salmon filet into 60g portions. Try to ensure each are roughly the same size and dimensions.
Submerge cut salmon into syrup/soy marinade, cover and refrigerate overnight.
One hour prior to cooking, remove salmon from the marinade and set on cooling racks placed over a baking sheet to allow fish to air dry and excess marinade to slough off.
Preheat BBQ to high.
Arrange portioned salmon on cedar plank, leaving small gaps between each piece.
Place on hot BBQ slats, close lid and reduce heat to a minimum.
Cook covered for 6 minutes, and check fish for doneness; look for medium moist, with a slight gradient from outside to center.
Take cedar planks off BBQ once cooked and serve.
Enjoy and create new memories around the dinner table!