halibut Archives - Queen Charlotte Lodge

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.

While we are known for our access to some of the most sought-after salmon fishing grounds in the world, what QCL offers doesn’t stop there. Our fishing grounds are also home to rich bottom fish populations, offering our guests a multitude of fishing adventures all within one day.

In order to grasp the appeal to our bottom fishing grounds, you need to first know what makes bottom fishing “good”.

When targeting bottom fish – Halibut, Lingcod and Rockfish for example – anglers use topographical charts of the ocean floor to predict where fish are likely to live. These charts illustrate plateaus, troughs, and pinnacles (underwater mountains); which are what we refer to as structures. These structures are prime living locations for a variety of the bottom fish we target at QCL.

Our Fishing Grounds sit on the edge of an underwater shelf. At the edge of the shelf, depths drop rapidly from roughly 350ft to depths that plummet well below 700ft. This creates a concentration of bottom fish that venture onto the shelf for easier access to food sources and in turn, allow us the opportunity to fish these large numbers of fish. Additionally, this shelf allows for plentiful fishing without needing to travel extended distances or out into the open ocean; often the case when searching for good structure. Our grounds offer the ability to catch bottom fish from as close as the shoreline to a few miles offshore. Due to this, we often see Halibut and Lingcod being a bycatch when targeting salmon in shallow waters close to shore.

The structure of our fishing grounds also creates the unique ability to specifically target different bottom fish. For example, Lingcod are often found living amongst large rock formations and pinnacles, but Halibut are known to frequent large sand plateaus where they can easily camouflage themselves. Both locations offer ample opportunity to cross paths with both species but on our grounds, there are areas which support both types of bottom structure which results in precise targeting of each species.

An added benefit of our fishing grounds is that we have seen a steady increase in food sources such as herring and squid. They congregate around the underwater landmarks that Halibut, Lingcod and others are often found. Where there’s food, there’s always something around to eat it!

Behind each angler is a knowledge and passion for the sport they are partaking in, and we hope that with this knowledge your passion is ignited for your upcoming trip to QCL.

Every day fishing in Haida Gwaii is a totally new adventure!

We were off the dock at 7am. The wind was blowing from the northwest and the tide was ebbing. On the way out we encountered some 6-7′ waves but by the time we dropped in on the west bay of Bird Rock 1 all was good as we drifted with the waves.

Running a black gold inline flasher with a green hootchie on the port side… A green inline flasher with a spoon on the starboard… 3 Coho were in the boat by the time we drifted to the east bay of Cape Naden. As we rounded the the point, the port side the rod took a serious dip and the reel started to scream out line! 10 minutes later we had a beautiful 21lb Chinook salmon in the net! We rounded out the day with 3 more Coho and 1 more Chinook salmon. It was a fantastic day on the water.

Guide, Clint Lundie

If the 2023 fishing season will be remembered for any one particular thing, it’s very likely to be the shear abundance of fish! From the early masses of needlefish we’ve encountered inshore since May and the dense schools of herring now over the pinnacles and halibut grounds, it’s no wonder there are so many salmon around! Throughout the first half of the season we’ve been awash in feeding Chinook and Coho. These early fish have been smaller than the migratory version we’re more accustomed to, but they’ve more than made up for it with their aggressive nature and persistent hunger for whatever we put in front of them! Translation… our guests haven’t been sitting down much!

Now that we’ve passed the mid-point of the season, we’re seeing more of what we expect in July, with strong numbers of beautiful, chunky, 20-something Chinooks and those summer Coho are getting up into the 10 pound-plus class. The Tyee Bell is tolling every evening at the Bell Ringer in celebration of memorable catches… for larger salmon, halibut and lingcod.

Another observation is the interest that our guests are showing in all things ocean and fishery related. Whether it’s speculation on why so many “feeders” are inshore this summer, to questions about kelp beds and sea urchins, or the difference between resident and transient orcas… there’s a new level of awareness in the air. And it’s a good thing… we all have a role to play in protecting the health of the oceans and marine life and it starts with being interested. There’s much to learn and to understand and it’s exciting to share all of this with our guests who come to enjoy the QCL Experience every summer!

Duane Foerter

This past week, the North shores of Graham Island have been blessed by weather typical of July. With light to moderate winds, and a mix of sun and rain, guests have experienced a true Haida Gwaii summer.

Salmon fishing has been consistent throughout the season, with plenty of Chinook and Coho keeping rods bouncing, and the bell rings most nights! We’ve been happy to celebrate alongside more guests choosing to release these 30+ pound fish, recognizing their beauty and that their importance extends far beyond their meat!

Anglers have been finding Chinook on both tides, with the ebb tide producing at Cape Naden, Bird Rock 2, and Klashwun Point, and the flood producing at Bird Rock 1, Parker Point, Yahtz Bay, and the top side. Coho have been picked off all along our inshore waters, no need to leave the Chinook grounds to find them this year! While Chinook limits have remained at 1 per day and 2 possession, anglers have found themselves with some extra time to put towards bottom fishing. Plenty of “turkey” size halibut, those in the 90-126cm mark, have been caught by those willing to thump the sand and weed through the chickens. And for those brave enough to work the tricky reef structure, some sizeable rockfish and lingcod have been caught on flat water days. With some small tides this week, and mostly light wind in the forecast, it should be a fun and productive!

Tight lines!

Lead Guide, Liam Longacre

The fishing industry is subject to constant changes in regulations aimed at preserving fish populations and ensuring sustainable practices. Fishing lodges play a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance between anglers’ interests and environmental conservation. This article examines how a fishing lodge effectively handles fishing regulation changes, ensuring compliance, guest satisfaction, and long-term sustainability.

To effectively manage fishing regulation changes, a fishing lodge must stay well-informed. This involves establishing strong communication channels with regulatory authorities, such as fish and wildlife departments, and actively participating in industry associations. Regularly monitoring legislative updates, attending workshops, and engaging in discussions with other lodge operators help ensure QCL remains up-to-date on current and impending regulations.

QCL educates our guests about fishing regulations to foster responsible angling practices. Upon arrival, guests are provided with detailed information about local fishing rules, catch limits, size restrictions, and any recent regulatory changes. Lodge staff are knowledgeable about these regulations to answer guests’ questions accurately and help them understand the importance of adhering to the guidelines.

Establishing a cooperative relationship with regulatory authorities is crucial for our industry. By actively engaging with these entities, we can contribute to the decision-making process and provide valuable insights based on our experience in the field. Open lines of communication facilitate understanding of the lodge’s perspective and allow for our concerns to be addressed when regulations are being formulated or modified.

QCL can play a significant role in promoting catch and release practices to support sustainable fishing. By educating anglers about the benefits of releasing certain fish species, especially those in decline, the lodge can help reduce pressure on vulnerable populations. Implementing policies that incentivize catch and release, such as recognition programs and rewards for anglers who release fish, help us to encourage guests to participate willingly.

To ensure compliance with fishing regulations, QCL has implemented monitoring systems. By employing experienced guides and staff members familiar with local rules, we can monitor angling activities on the water, including catch numbers and sizes. By regularly reporting this information to regulatory authorities, the lodge can contribute to the assessment of fish populations and assist in the evaluation of the effectiveness of existing regulations.

Fishing lodges must maintain a high degree of adaptability and flexibility in response to fishing regulation changes. This involves regularly reviewing internal policies and procedures to ensure compliance with updated rules. Lodge management is prepared to modify fishing programs, adjust catch limits, or introduce new practices as required. Maintaining open communication with guests about any changes and explaining the reasons behind them helps foster understanding and cooperation.

Navigating fishing regulation changes can be a complex task. By staying informed, educating our guests, collaborating with regulatory authorities, encouraging catch and release, implementing monitoring systems, remaining adaptable, and engaging in conservation initiatives, we can effectively handle regulatory changes. This approach ensures the sustainable enjoyment of fishing for guests, the conservation of fish populations, and the overall success of our operation in the long run. By balancing the interests of anglers and environmental conservation, QCL can serve as responsible custodians of the marine resources.

As a note to all of our guests, we appreciate your assistance and understanding when it comes to maintaining all DFO regulations. Together, we can ensure continuity for all of us that love the adventure that is ocean fishing! Should you at any point have any questions, please reach out to our team and we will give you the most up to date information.

“Fish on!”

A common phrase in the QCL anglers’ vocabulary, defining the past trip here at QCL.

It’s halfway through the season and we’re seeing consistent action on the water. There has been plenty of opportunity to land Chinook, the majority ranging in size from 9-16 pounds. Complementing the fishing, we’ve seen tons of wildlife on the grounds. Nothing beats watching a whale show in-between bites!

Recently, our days have started with a windy ride through Virago Sound and these higher winds pushed plenty of bait in! A familiar tack amongst the guides is to cruise our way up to Klashwun Point, and do the “Haida Drift”, working points down to the Mazerrado Islands.

Starting our day with a trip up to a favourite of mine, Parker Point, we were met by a few other boats aiming for a release worthy fish like us. We began on the top side of Parker, worked our way on the inside tack, in about 50 feet of water, with lines set to 27 & 37 ft. Immediately we received a hit on the anchovy. This seemed to be a multi species tool, landing plenty of Coho, Chinook and the odd Chum or Pink. We later set off from Parker to the shores of “B1”, where there was consistent action with Chinooks (10-15 pounds). Within a short 5 hours on the water, we found ourselves limited out for salmon, occasionally even trolling up the odd Halibut within Cape Naden. With large unpredictable tides, bottom fishing and finding bait can be difficult in the beginning but is manageable as you stick it out.

Just as quickly as the day started, the bite slowed signally the time to head back to the Bell Ringer to swap stories with a cocktail in hand. Another good day of fishing in the Gwaii, with plenty more to come.

Guide, Wyatt Fulthorpe

And just like that, we’ve had another trip of first class fishing.

While salmon fishing the past week has continued to be consistent, we’ve seen success throughout our fishing grounds. Fish have been found at Green Point, all the way east to Cape Edenshaw. Weather has been the primary factor when choosing a spot, which we will see continue into the next week. Although fishing has been quite good throughout the day, the mornings have been noticeably more productive. If you’re not afraid of an early start, some incredible Chinook action has been found just as the sun has been rising. Enjoy the sunrise and the reason we are all here – tight lines!

Anglers have seen success with anchovies producing nice fish, likely due to the abundance of needlefish and sandlance spread throughout the grounds. If you find one of these bait balls, spend some time trolling anchovies and skinny G style spoons over top of it. No need to fish too deep, 27-37 feet has been the sweet spot.

The bell continues to ring as Tyees find their way onto lines and into nets. This weekend we saw a 39-pound Chinook for our young guest, Freddie M! Congratulations Freddie, what a thrill – Thanks for letting that big one go!

When it comes to bottom fishing, the big tides have created less than ideal conditions, but if timed properly at either end of slack, bottom can be found with not too much back trolling required. The flood tide has seemed to be most productive for halibut and lingcod. A herring tipped mud racker is all you’ll need to hook either.

Lead Guide, Jake Comrie

Haida Gwaii – An archipelago located off the northern coast of British Columbia, known for its pristine natural beauty and rich culture. A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Haida Gwaii is home to some of the best salmon fishing grounds in the world. QCL offers guests the opportunity to this incredible corner of the world and fish its abundant waters.

One of the most important factors to consider when fishing on the ocean is the vessel in which you are fishing. The ocean is a vast, ever-changing environment and ensuring you are in a boat created for safety and ease of fishing is essential. With over 30 years of experience fishing Haida Gwaii waters, we know what works, and what doesn’t.

With that, we are excited to announce some updates to our on-water program for the quickly approaching 2023 season – A new series of boats! Ten custom-built boats will be introduced to our fleet, arriving shortly, to replace a grouping of boats that we have elected to retire.

Built in Prince Rupert by industry leading professionals who understand the demands of our marine environment, our new 22’ boats are state-of-the-art vessels, fitted with the latest equipment and technology. They feature comfortable seating, ample storage space for gear and tackle, and are equipped with AIS, GPS, and fish-finding technology. The boats are also equipped with brand new engines, enabling guests to reach their desired fishing destinations safely and quickly.

In addition to the practical features of these new boats, they are aesthetically pleasing, with sleek designs. Featuring the classic QCL red, our guests will glide through the waters of Haida Gwaii in style.

Whether you are an experienced angler or a beginner, these boats will provide the perfect platform for exploring the waters and catching some of the best salmon and bottom fish anywhere in the world.

The holiday season is here, and the winter weather has certainly arrived with it. Now’s the time to surround yourself with the people that matter the most, while filling up on delicious food and drink!

Take some of the guess work out of your holiday preparations and try two recipes our F+B team has put together – The famous Bell Ringer Fish + Chips and a festive Bourbon Apple Cider.

These recipes remind us of those lively summer evenings spent at the Bell Ringer, after an epic day on the water. The Tyee bell is ringing, Fish + Chips are on the table and a drink is in hand.

Though we’re a handful of months out from opening day yet, hopefully these recipes spark some joy and fill that QCL void in the meantime!

BELL RINGER FISH + CHIPS

INGREDIENTS

Part A | Batter mix

250g rice flour
5g Diamond Crystal Kosher salt
8g baking powder
341ml lager or pilsner

Part B | Dredging mix

75g rice flour
75g cornstarch
5g Diamond Crystal Kosher salt
2g Old Bay seasoning (optional)

Part C | Fish

1kg firm whitefish (pacific cod, lingcod, halibut), cut into 55g strips, about 2cm x 6cm

Part D | Hand-cut double fried chips

400g kennebec potatoes
5g Diamond Crystal Kosher salt

Part E | Fryer set up

3 litres Canola oil
1ea Candy thermometer

Part F | Tartar Sauce

100g mayonnaise
15g cornichons, finely minced
15g onion, finely minced
5g capers, finely minced
2g Worcestershire sauce

METHOD

1. In a deep stainless steel pot, gently heat oil over medium low heat; clasp the candy thermometer to the edge of the pot to gauge the temperature
2. Wash the potatoes, then cut into French fries, not larger than 1cm x 1cm; any length is fine, and will depend on your potatoes
3. Once the oil is at 250F blanch the french fries for 5 minutes, then remove onto a paper towel lined bake sheet and cool. You’ll cook them one more time to make them crispy just before eating. Increase the oil temperature to 350F, ensuring to do so over medium heat
4. Combine dry ingredients in Part A; mix thoroughly, then add the can of beer. Very gently whisk together ensuring not to overmix; let stand for 15 minutes while you finish other tasks
5. Combine part B and reserve in a shallow dish; this will be your dredging mix
6. Butcher fish into strips about three times as long as they are wide; about 55g
7. Dredge the fish until it is uniformly dusted by the dredging mix, then dip into the wet batter
8. Carefully lower the fish pieces into the hot oil, and fry for 4-5 minutes; generally you will know they are done when they float, and are producing fewer bubbles; desired colour is a deep golden brown. Remove fish from the hot oil onto a paper towel lined tray and lightly salt
9. Return the cooled french fries to the 350F oil for 3-4 minutes, until they too are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil when done and toss in kosher salt
10. Serve the hot fish and chips with lemon wedges, malt vinegar, and tartar sauce

FESTIVE BOURBON APPLE CIDER

INGREDIENTS

2 ounces bourbon
1 ounce apple cider
1 ounce sweet vermouth
1/2 ounce lemon juice
1 dash Angostura bitters
Garnish: apple slices (optional), sprig of thyme

METHOD

Combine the bourbon, cider, sweet vermouth and lemon juice in mixing glass of ice
Stir and strain it into cocktail glass
Add a dash of orange bitters; garnish with apple slices (if desired, spritz them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning!) and a sprig of thyme
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Older Posts

Taste of B-Sea | Current Opportunities

The Fishing Grounds | Bottom Fishing

In order to grasp the appeal to our bottom fishing grounds, you need to first know what makes bottom fishing “good”.

Kingfisher Report | July 27, 2023

Kingfisher Report | July 20, 2023

Kingfisher Report | July 18, 2023

Adapting to Regulation Changes | A Fishing Lodge Approach

Kingfisher Report | July 14, 2023

“Fish on!”

Kingfisher Report | July 2, 2023

Updates From The Dock

With that, we are excited to announce some updates to our on-water program for the quickly approaching 2023 season – A new series of boats! Ten custom-built boats will be introduced to our fleet, arriving shortly, to replace a grouping of boats that we have elected to retire.

Holiday Recipes

BELL RINGER FISH + CHIPS

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

FESTIVE BOURBON APPLE CIDER

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Taste of B-Sea | Current Opportunities

Thank You for an Adventure-Filled 2023 Season!

Kingfisher Report | August 26, 2023

Kingfisher Report | August 20, 2023

Kingfisher Report | August 17, 2023