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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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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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April 10, 2023 Bre Guolo0

The countdown to the 2023 season started as soon as the 2022 season wrapped and as this summer draws nearer (less than 8 weeks to go now!), our excitement grows daily.

Personalized 2023 Trip and Travel Information packets are being sent out, and you’ll soon know you’re your packing potential is limited to 25lbs. This limit is possible because our team works hard to make your trip as simple as possible – We have many of the items that you would normally consider travelling with, already at the Lodge.

We understand that visiting somewhere for the first time, and knowing how to pack, can be intimidating. What is the weather like? What will I need on the water? What is the dress code for dinner? These are all questions that pop into mind when planning for a new adventure. Worry no more, we’ve got you covered.

When it comes to fishing, each guest is provided a rainsuit, fleece sweater, boots, personal flotation devices, fishing gear and tackle. We strongly recommend you bring clothing that can be layered. The weather on the water can fluctuate throughout the day. We recommend a good base layer, our favourites being Mon Royale or Icebreaker, underneath sweatpants or fleece pants. We encourage each guest to bring wool socks (we recommend Kombi), a toque (or a beanie for our American friends), and light gloves for comfort. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and your sunglasses; they are a must!

For your time spent off the water, we recommend bringing what you are comfortable in. Casual pants or jeans, shirts, and shoes. Evenings can cool so a warmer sweater and/or windbreaker is ideal to pack. With amenities such as hot tubs, saunas, and a fitness center, you’ll do well also bringing a bathing suit and workout gear.

While each room features amenities such as shampoo/conditioner, soap and hairdryers, you should bring all other personal items – toiletries, prescription medications, etc. If it interests you, bring a camera to capture your catch, the wildlife and well, all the QCL memories you’ll be making!

Don’t forget, meals are included and an incredible selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, sundries and of course, souvenirs, are available for purchase at the Lodge.

Get those bags packed and ready to go! We’ll see you at QCL soon enough!


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December 23, 2022 Bre Guolo0

Happy Holidays + New Year to all of you, our incredible Guests!

This is always the perfect time to reflect upon all that has happened in the past year. We are so thankful to have operated our 2022 season normally – the first in two years! We enjoyed every moment and memory created with you all – this year we welcomed a record number of guests to the Lodge; we have never been busier!

We watched you make your way down to the dock at the crack of dawn: a result of your commitment. We watched you smile and experience the pride that comes along with watching your days catch at the weigh scale: a result of your persistence. And we watched you laugh and share stories of your time on the water at dinner: a culmination of everything we love about the QCL experience.

On behalf of the QCL family, thank you for choosing us as your fishing destination. We wish you quality time and precious moments with your loved ones during this special time of year. And more importantly, we are already counting down the days to next season and looking forward to amazing you this summer!

2022 was a monumental year for us, our staff and our guests. Cheers to what will surely be an even better and more exciting one in 2023!

 


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December 19, 2022 Bre Guolo3

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
  1. Combine the bourbon, cider, sweet vermouth and lemon juice in mixing glass of ice
  2. Stir and strain it into cocktail glass
  3. 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
  4. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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November 29, 2022 Bre Guolo0

The weather has officially shifted and the holiday season is nearly upon us! Like most, the QCL team is looking forward to all the upcoming festivities. While an amazing time for reflection and getting together with loved ones, we also know it can be overwhelming – Ensuring you have the right ingredients for family gathering meals and picking out the perfect gifts (especially for the ones who say they don’t need anything) can be time consuming endeavors. We’ve put together the QCL Holiday Gift Guide in hopes that we can help make finding the perfect gift for the angler in your life a smooth (and maybe an easier) process!

Connect with Kristine Renaud to order | krenaud@fishqcl.com 800 688 8959

 

FOR THE BEST DRESSED

If you’re familiar with QCL, you’d know that every year we feature a new guest hat design. This tradition is 30+ years strong and typically reserved as an on-season exclusive.

Our 2022 hat was a fan favourite so we’ve made an exemption! Snag one before they’re gone!

 

FOR THE AVID ANGLER

Chances are, if you’re reading this, you or someone you know love to fish and any angler would appreciate an Islander reel. Available in 5 colours, the Islander MR3 mooching reel is sure to impress. Warning, fishing with an Islander might turn a hobby into a passion and passion into an obsession.

 

FOR THE ADVENTURE SEEKER

Go above and beyond, surprise your loved one with the fishing adventure of a lifetime. Connect with our team of Sales Executives to inquire about the limited opportunities remaining for 2023 or plan well in advance and explore the many options in 2024!

 

FOR THE FOODIE

Whether you’re buying for a seafood lover, aspiring chef or a master entertainer, Taste of B-Sea has something for all. Perfect for those who are looking to supplement their 2022 catch or for a friend that hasn’t yet had the chance to visit QCL, you can’t go wrong with the gift of premium seafood. QCL’s Taste of B-Sea program delivers Ocean Wise products from some of the most sustainable fisheries on the West Coast of British Columbia, straight to your door. https://www.queencharlottelodge.com/luxury-fishing-lodge/amenities/taste-of-b-sea/ 

Our Pre-Holiday Sale includes Lingcod ($29), Halibut ($40), Spot Prawns ($49) and Dungeness Crab Meat ($65). Stock up on these great options and check out what else Taste of B-Sea offers!

 

FOR THE TECH LOVER

As the world becomes more connected than ever, it’s important to keep that connection safe. Rep your favourite fishing adventure and protect your tech with our water and stain resistant laptop case – It’s a win, win!

 

FOR THOSE VISITING QCL

For those who already have a trip booked to QCL, we’ve added in a few of our favourite items to have at the Lodge.

  1. We always want our guests to remain as comfortable as possible on the water. Time flies when you’re having fun and catching fish, but not if you’re a little cold or wet. A warm pair of gloves, warm toque or wool socks would make for a perfect stocking stuffer!
  2. For the beginner or veteran, every angler needs a pair of sunglasses. Protection on the water is a necessity – Plus, everyone can do with a stylish pair of polarized glasses to reduce the glare and create a clearer view of the water.
  3. While it’s the middle of summer during our season’s, we never really know what the weather will be in the Pacific Northwest. Sneaking base layers under the tree is a sure fire way to ensure your loved one stays warm in between all the rod action or until reeling in the fish of their dreams!
  4. Haida Gwaii is full of abundant wildlife both on and off the water. A pair of waterproof binoculars would not be a bad item to pack!