It’s been an incredible kickoff to the season here at Queen Charlotte Lodge, where the waters off Naden Harbour are alive with energy. From first light to the last drop of the tide, our guests and guides have been kept busy with consistent action on the water.
Chinook salmon are showing up in solid numbers, with consistent hookups in the 10 to 20lbs range and a few heavyweights tipping the scale at over 30lbs. Yesterday Dallas S. caught and released a Chinook taping out to 47lbs!
The morning bite has been especially productive at Cape Naden, Bird Rock 2, and Yatze Bay. Anchovies in teaser heads and cut-plug herring remain the top choices, with green/glow flashers drawing the most attention.
Coho are beginning to make an early entrance, a welcome surprise. They’re hitting aggressively and fighting hard, signaling what could be a strong run this summer.
Out on the offshore halibut grounds, the action has been steady. Plenty of perfect-sized “chickens” (15–25lbs) for the table, along with a few barn doors pushing past the 80lbs mark.
Weather has been kind, with mostly calm seas and light northwest winds giving boats easy access to the outer grounds. Water temperatures are holding around 10°C, with good visibility, especially on the west side.
And beyond the fishing, the show continues: humpbacks breaching, orcas cruising through, and bald eagles soaring overhead have added a truly unforgettable layer to each day on the water.
Guide’s Tip of the Week:
Stay shallow early. Most Chinook have been hitting between 15 and 45 feet on the downrigger.
QCL Guide, Alex Kuiper
