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February 26, 2024 Tayler Fuerst0

QCL is a paradise for anglers however, there is so much more to QCL than what is underwater. The next time you’re at the Lodge take a moment to look beyond the tides and take in the unique beauty Haida Gwaii offers above water.

A secret known only to those who are looking for it, the area is home to incredible bird-watching opportunities. With unique species hiding amongst the forest’s edge, shorelines, rugged coastlines and diving down below the tides.

A few of our favourites to keep a lookout for are:

  1. Eagle

Holding a special place here in Haida Gwaii, the Eagle is one of the most recognizable soaring through the sky and hanging out at low tide.

Powerful and beautiful birds of prey, you’ll find upon reaching maturity these birds are dark brown with a white head and tail. Featuring a beak, feet and irises that are all yellow in colour, with highly developed talons to pierce their prey. Known as opportunistic feeders, these birds can be found wherever they can find something to eat – Whether that is along the shoreline or diving into bait balls.

 

  1. Raven

Also, culturally significant to the Haida people, the Common Raven is an all-black passerine bird that has co-existed with humans for thousands of years. This species is among the smartest animals in the world and is highly regarded among mythology.

The Ravens found in Haida Gwaii are some of the biggest globally, due to the colder weather.  The iridescent plumage and dark brown irises that they feature are among a few of the distinguishable features. Look for these birds in trees along the coastline while out on the water.

 

  1. Red-Breasted Sapsucker

Don’t let the name deceive you, this beautiful bird is a part of the Woodpecker species that regularly drill holes in bark to find food. Your best bet at sneaking a peek at the vibrant red head and breast is to head into the lush, old growth forest. Most often spotted near ground level, you’ll see them feeding on insects tucked away into the bark of Spruce and Hemlock trees.

 

  1. Varied Thrush

A beautiful songbird that features a large, rounded head and a straight bill, and will most often be found amongst the trees. The male thrushes are dark blue-gray and rich burnt-orange with a soot black breastband and an orange line over their eyes., while females feature the same, but muted colouring. These beautifully coloured birds are mixed among the humid evergreens along the Pacific Coast.

 

  1. Black Turnstone

A small and short shorebird, the Black Turnstone can be found along the rocky outcrops forming our little piece of fishing paradise. Identified by the dark black and brown colouring with a white belly and bold patterns only visible in flight, the mature adult’s individual white stripes on each wing, with a mostly white tail.

 

  1. Rhinoceros Auklet

A favourite at QCL, so much so that we named one of our freight boats after it – the Auklet.

A seabird that is closely related to the puffin. Getting its name from the horned bill, this bird can be distinguished among the crowd through its cloudy gray colour, two white facial plumes and the thick orange-yellow bill.

An aquatic bird at heart, keep your eyes peeled while on the water as they are often in large flocks, swimming underwater as they chase prey.

 

  1. Tufted Puffin

Not as commonly seen but certainly a sight to behold if you do, the Tufted Puffin is one of two Pacific Puffin species. Sometimes called the Crested Puffin, this pelagic seabird is thriving with interesting facts – One of is that they nest mostly in deep burrows as it digs into cliff edges, they can get more than 1.5 meters deep.

Identify this bird by their long, pale yellow head plumes and intense red bill that offset the white face and black body. As they spend most of their lives on the open ocean, far from shore, Virago Sound is a perfect viewing spot.

 

  1. Black Oystercatcher

Camouflaged by their dark bodies, and only noticeable by their red orange bills and eyes, and pale pink feet, the Black Oystercatcher goes after marine organisms that are left unprotected when the shore is visible.

Another species with interesting facts – the Black Oystercatcher was first described as being “blood-footed” due to the pink colour of its feet.

 

9.  Harlequin Duck

Another beautifully coloured bird worth looking out for during your time on the fishing grounds is the Harlequin Duck, a small sea duck that boasts many names. With striking plumage, the males are easily identifiable boasting a slate blue body, a white facial crescent, spot chestnut crown patching/flanks and bold white strips. Females are brown with similar telltale facial markings as the male.

Like most ducks, they dive for aquatic invertebrates along the turbulent coastal waters. Keep a look out during the tide changes and wavy days as they favour white water.

 

10. Belted Kingfisher

Featured in our original logo, in 1991, the Belted Kingfisher holds a special place in not only our history but our hearts.

Blue-gray with a white band around the neck and under belly, the Kingfisher sports a large head with a shaggy crest. Females have a rusty band on their bellies, unlike the pure white and blue gray of males. Spending majority of their time perching along the edges of nearby water sources, these birds will hunt for small fish by hovering over the water and diving with their thick, pointed bill.

Around the Lodge, you can spot them when walking the trails and sometimes, they will perch amongst the trees on property. And if you look hard, you might even see a guest sporting a cap with the vintage logo.

These are only a few of the many birds that frequent Naden Harbour and Virago Sound. During your time at QCL, we encourage you to look beyond the tides, towards the skies to see how many you can identify.

Save this for reference and keep an eye out for what other adventures are yours for the taking while you experience fishing first class.


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February 8, 2024 Tayler Fuerst0

Most anglers have their favourite fishing gear; special vest, best rod, lucky lures, killer flies, and the list goes on. But one item that seems to be high on the list of essentials is their fishing hat.  And judging by the number of hats we see at the Lodge, we can confirm that is often the case!

For as long as QCL has operated, our guests have received an annual QCL Hat. Sporting this upon stepping off the helicopter has become a welcome tradition. While this tradition is not unique to QCL, we find ourselves excited when our guests love their new fishing hat.

Now, 33 years in, we’re still cooking up new ideas and fresh looks for the QCL cap.  Obviously, the logo features prominently on any design and we’ve moved through a few variations.  The original logo in 1991 was a beautiful Kingfisher, styled in a Haida design by Pat Wesley.  It was front and centre on all Lodge hats until 2002 when we moved to a new logo design that featured the “hooked QCL” which was later simplified to the “hooked Q” that we often use today. Colour is always important; we’ve used various hues of blue, green, chestnut brown and shades from white to black.

Coming up with a hat that appeals to everyone is a daunting task.  But every winter we go on a mission to design something fresh, in hopes that most everyone will love it.  Thankfully, we’ve had our share of winners – in shapes and colours that fit just right with the times – and perhaps some that were loved a little less. It’s our good fortune that most guests are pleased to receive this unique keepsake and are happy to take it home with them. There’s no feeling quite like walking down the street, or across the world, and seeing the familiar Q.

As we always say, fishing is a pastime full of story and tradition, with maybe a touch of superstition involved there too.  One tradition that many of our guests may not be aware of is what to do when your new hat blows off your head while out on the water.  Of course, this happens more often than you might think. Keeping it protected from the breeze as you fly over the water is a timeless trick that needs perfecting. But of course, the proper procedure to follow is that as soon as your hat leaves your head, is to immediately turn the boat around and retrieve it before it sinks!  And, doing so properly means pulling the hat straight from the water and putting it right back on your head, drips and all.

Our 2024 hat is well on its way to the Office, ready to continue the loved tradition. We cannot wait to share it with you all, you’ll only have to wait a little bit longer. For now, here’s a little teaser.


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January 13, 2024 Tayler Fuerst0

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

  1. Preheat the oven to 375° F.
  2. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Mix all ingredients, except the halibut, together.
  4. Pat dry halibut and lay out on baking sheet.
  5. Generously spoon the bread crumb mixture fillets and lightly press.
  6. 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

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December 22, 2023 Tayler Fuerst0

Like most, we often find ourselves spending the final few weeks of December reflecting on the previous year. As we shift towards the New Year and upcoming season, we want to take a moment to thank you.

Thank you for choosing QCL, thank you for enjoying all the little moments that define us, thank you for allowing us to help create memories that will never be forgotten.

Whether it was your first visit to the Lodge, or your thirtieth, we experienced new adventures alongside you. We saw your first-ever catch. We saw your fish-of-a-lifetime. We watched your breath taken away by the Orcas, Humpbacks, and stunning scenery. We watched as you drank a Fishmaster Caesar, and we cheered with you as you rang the bell. And, we smiled as you enjoyed the meals our chef’s created. The 2023 season was a culmination of all your dedication to adventure, your enthusiasm, your laughter, and quality time. And now, with you, we are counting down the days until the 2024 season!

On behalf of the entire QCL family, we wish you the happiest holidays! You make it possible for us to share our passion with you and we appreciate your support. Here’s to 2024 being better and more adventurous than ever before.


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December 13, 2023 Tayler Fuerst0
The Holiday’s are quickly approaching and with them come the holiday get-togethers. Shake things up and wow your guests with this Salmon Dip recipe. It’s the perfect pairing for your holiday party.
Check out our signature Salmon Dip recipe below, and don’t forget to check back monthly as our chef’s create new recipes for you to enjoy your catch or Taste of B-Sea order.

 

MATERIALS

  • 226g of room temperature cream cheese
  • 125ml sour cream
  • 15ml fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 2g fresh chopped dill
  • 2g fresh chopped chives
  • 5ml horseradish
  • 120g of chopped smoked salmon
  • Salt + Pepper to taste

METHOD

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Cream the cheese using a mixer.
  3. Once smooth, add in sour cream, lemon juice, herbs, and horseradish and combine.
  4. Finally, add smoked salmon to the mixture. Taste and season to your liking.
  5. Place mixture into an oven safe dish, place in oven for 15-20 minutes or until dish reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Serve with crudité, crostini, or naan bread.
  7. Enjoy!

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

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November 28, 2023 Tayler Fuerst0

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!


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November 20, 2023 Tayler Fuerst0

The days are shorter, the air is cooler, and the holiday season is right around the corner! It’s the time of year where we are reminded to slow down, reflect on the last 12 months, and to spend time with the ones that matter most.

As with everything in life, the holiday season is different for everyone. Whether you’re jetting off somewhere warm or cozying up by the fire amongst snowfall, celebrating with lots of festivities or relaxing with quiet nights in, there is always something to look forward to.

The QCL team looks for the perfect gift to pair with the quality time the holidays allow and when it comes to the anglers in our lives, we might know a thing or two! Let us help you spread some cheer this holiday season!

UNDER THE TREE

–   Surprise everyone with this year’s feature hat. Usually reserved as an on-season exclusive, we’ve decided to give everyone one last chance at grabbing the 2023 fan favourite. Perfect for those who visited this past season but might have lost theirs to the wind and sea!

–   Our Taste of B-Sea program is the perfect, unexpected gift for those that like to host or the seafood lovers in your life. QCL sources the finest quality fish and shellfish available – all caught right here in British Columbia. These products are Ocean Wise, sourced from some of the most sustainable fisheries in the world using eco-friendly fishing methods. Connect with Reservations Coordinator, Maria Wong to arrange | mwong@fishqcl.com

–   Anyone who loves to fish for salmon would be thrilled to unwrap an Islander Reel and is a sure way to turn a hobby into an obsession. The Islander MR3 Mooching reel is available in 5 colours. Connect with Retail Administrator, Zoe Zahri to arrange | zzahir@fishqcl.com  

A FIRST CLASS FISHING EXPERIENCE

–   QCL is more than a fishing trip, it’s a luxurious adventure rooted in passionate hospitality. Go above and beyond and surprise your loved one with a first class fishing experience they’ll never forget. Connect with our Sales Executive team | 1 800 688 8959

TRIP ADD-ONS

Know someone that is booked for a trip to QCL in 2024? Treat them to the following on-site amenities to ensure their summer fishing adventure is above and beyond. Connect with Reservations Coordinator, Maria Wong to arrange | mwong@fishqcl.com

–   Book them in for a treatment at the Twin Creek Spa. After all, is there a better way to end a day on the water than with a massage?

–   Treat them with an exclusive dining experience at the Buoy or Bell Ringer.

      • The Buoy, Japanese Inspired Experience | This space is a perfect opportunity for guests looking for a one-of-a-kind special experience. Sit back and enjoy not only amazing eats and first-class service, but amazing forest views. Inspired by Teppanyaki, this semi-private dinner features our chef’s take on the traditional Teppanyaki meal with a West Coast twist.
      • The Bell Ringer Seafood Boil | One of the most attractive outdoor dining experiences in Haida Gwaii, but with propane heaters, the Bell Ringer has become a crowd favourite amongst QCL guests. The Bell Ringer isn’t your average floating dock… to be able to sit and watch sea lions & orcas playing in the harbour with a drink in hand, incredible food in front of you and amazing company is something to behold. Where East and West coast mix, the Bell Ringer Seafood Boil is QCL’s take on the traditional meal.

–   Surprise them with an upgrade!

      • Platinum Package | Defining fishing first class, the Platinum Package elevates the guest experience by considering some of the most important elements and wrapping them into one all-encompassing bundle.

 


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November 1, 2023 Tayler Fuerst0

Over the years we’ve welcomed many faces to QCL and while we are grateful for our returning guests, we are also grateful for those that are visiting for the first time. In honour of all of you, we’d like to reintroduce you to who we are and what magic lies behind the QCL Experience.

Tucked among the lush oasis of old growth forests and rich waters is a luxury fishing lodge – QCL, a private haven for our guests to escape and explore for more than 30 years. Welcoming guests since 1991, we have created a place where modern day adventurers can enjoy the northwest wilderness perfectly blended with the comforts of warm, attentive hospitality in understated luxury lodging.

After changing ownership 20+ years ago, QCL has grown with new standards of business operation that started the Lodge on our current path.

First and foremost, we are a fishing lodge that strives to provide our guests with the ultimate first class fishing experience. Designed to take full advantage of the unrivaled fishing opportunities available in Haida Gwaii, our fishing grounds offer vast populations of bait fish for productive fishing anytime throughout our season. Our fishing grounds are among the world’s premier fisheries for salmon and halibut, with other species available.

Our guests range from fishing novices to seasoned veterans, and we offer a full range of services to meet these needs. Our boat fleet is specifically designed for performance and safety, allowing our guests to choose to fish on their own, self-guided, or benefit from the assistance of a professional guide, guided. Our fishing program is designed to offer even more flexibility with variable start times for guests who are eager to hit the water at dawn, or for those who prefer a slower start to their day.

The QCL Experience does not end once our guests return to the dock – with an elevated standard of hospitality across property, our accommodations, dining services and amenities are among the cornerstones of QCL’s luxury.

Upon booking, guests have the choice of accommodation (based on availability); each room and/or venue offering something for everyone. For those looking for the finest in what QCL has to offer, our private houses are the perfect off the water experience, with a private hot tub, chef, and hostess the QCL experience is tailor-made for you. And for those looking for constant adventure, we have limited spots available on our MV Driftwood.

Guests immediately feel at home in the comforts of the stunning Main Lodge, made from lodgepole pine, as it is the centerpiece of QCL. Upon returning from the water, guests find their way to the Lodge to sip a craft cocktail by the crackling fire in the great stone hearth, take in the setting sun views from the hot tub or sauna, or share stories around the harbourside firepit.

Serving as the hub of our Food and Beverage programs, the Dining Room is located on the second floor of the Main Lodge. Guests looking for an espresso and fresh baked pastry, an afternoon bite or 3 course meal and extensive wine selection, this is where you’ll find it. Our menus emphasize the local seafood, nod to a classic steakhouse, and honour the flavours of the West Coast. Alongside the Dining Room, our guests often find themselves recharging in the Angler’s Club Lounge. Located on the first floor of the Main Lodge, this is home to our wine cellar, main bar, and pool table.

For those in search of a lively location to start or end the day, we have the Bell Ringer – a simple concept that is often imitated but never replicated. Located on the dock, this is the spot to grab a coffee before heading out on the water, and sharing stories of the days catch while you wait for it to get weighed.

Not to be confused with the MV Driftwood, our on the water dining experience for all guests. For those looking for break to their fishing day the DW offers a lively lunch location with tales of the morning and views of the rugged landscape.

Over the years, QCL has learned what best inspires the dining experiences that create irreplaceable memories and from this inspiration we have created two quintessential dining experiences – he Bell Ringer, and the Buoy dinner. Available for a fee, they create a semiprivate dining experience that cannot be rivaled in our remote wilderness.

We understand that the definition of adventure and luxury varies from person to person, and we strive to provide each of our guests with a personalized experience. You can anticipate this personalized experience from the moment you book your trip, to arriving at the lodge, whether they are on the water or in the dining room. Among other amenities such as our spa, fitness center, hot tubs and saunas – the staff is truly the hallmark of your trip. The QCL Crew is always present to ensure your visit to QCL is truly an unforgettable memory.

It is worth noting that while we do our best to share the QCL Experience with you here, there is nothing similar to the feeling you get from stepping off the helicopter after a scenic ride across Haida Gwaii.

Thank you for booking your first class fishing experience with us, we cannot wait to welcome you!


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September 27, 2023 Tayler Fuerst0

There is something special about bringing your fish home from your first class fishing trip, cooking it and sharing those memories while creating new ones. Though this is one of our favourite ways to hold onto a summer adventure, we also know that it can be easy to move through your delicious catch and for those moments where you’re in need of West Coast seafood there is our Taste of B-Sea program.

QCL has sourced the finest quality fish and shellfish available – all caught right here in British Columbia. These products are Ocean Wise and come from some of the most sustainable fisheries in the world using the most eco-friendly fishing methods. Perfect for hosting during the upcoming holiday season, or to tide you over until your next QCL visit!

All the favourites are on hand – Albacore Tuna loins, Lingcod and Halibut portions, Sablefish (smoked & regular) as well as Spot Prawns and Dungeness Crab. Pick a few, or try a sample pack!

Check out our ready to ship menu below, and place your order to keep your freezer stocked. To order, contact our team | 1-800-688-8959

Keep in mind for 2024 that products can be taken home direct from the airport,upon your return from the Lodge.


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September 6, 2023 Tayler Fuerst2

“And when we hear the call of the geese in the harbour, we know that it’s time to wrap it up for another season…”  That time has come!  We sent off our final group of guests yesterday, followed by a large portion of our crew.  Wow!  Is it ever a different place when they’re not here!

Our 33rd season at QCL was pretty epic.  We were able to welcome back quite a number of guests who’ve missed us over the past 4 years, as well as many newcomers who wanted to know what this place was all about. Our core group of QCL guests, whom we’re very fortunate to see almost every summer, were thrilled with many of the tweaks, both large and small, that we implemented this year.

Certainly, our new Coho Class of boats had to be a highlight for many, combining great functionality and performance with lots of comforts and convenience – for both guided and self-guided anglers.  New menu features and hospitality treats balanced out the program when our guests returned to the lodge at the end of the day.

Conversations among the guide team this past week were consistently positive about the fishing.  Huge volumes of feeding Chinook and Coho were present through the first half of the summer, and as the number of migratory salmon increased, the Tyee Bell was ringing more frequently every trip.  In short, it was busy on the boats!  Bottom fishing for halibut, lingcod and rockfish always balances out the fishing experience and provides a tasty variety of filets to enjoy at home.

But we have to say, at the end of every trip, and at the end of every season, what our guests always go out of their way to speak with us about, is essentially the QCL Experience.  That’s the very special combination of this amazing place and what people are able to do here, fully enveloped in the enthusiasm of our wonderful staff and the hospitality that they provide. That’s what puts a smile on everyone’s face up here.  We’re very thankful for the efforts of each of our team members and the continued support of our awesome guests.

We can’t wait to get back up here again next season and see you all again!