2008 Queen Charlotte Islands Fishing Adventure

                                   David Johnson's

Queen Charlotte Islands KANO Inlet 2008

Well all, I’m back in the blue waters of the KANO inlet nestled among the wooded rain forests of the Charlotte Islands. The skies today are steel gray with low clouds that swirl and hang over the islands trees like the smoke from a smoldering forest fire. The wind is low and the ocean is at peace. The waves remind me of a pond more so than the fierceness the north pacific this area is so known for.

As our float plan arrives and water skies along the surface to the side of the HS Salmon Seeker, we all breath a sign of relief as we exit the small craft. The crossing over the Charlotte’s well timbered peaks is always an exciting ride. This time, we did it in heavy clouds and fog. Flying too low out here could mean an unplanned meeting with disaster.

Once upon the Seeker, which was an old Government Exploration ship converted into quaint yet compact state rooms and a equally compact galley, we quickly stow our gear and collect our Mustang survival suits. Well worn by countless prior guests, these yellow waterproof outfits are a two piece setup with bibs under a hooded storm jacket. Made to protect you from the cold, wind and water, they really do their job. Once dressed for success we’re out to the boats.

Our boats again this year are the same 25 foot Boston Wailers that we’ve used constantly over the past 6 years of so. They are showing signs of their years of producing some of the greatest quality Salmon and Halibut in the area. The fishing gear is also showing signs of use and exposure to the elements, yet well maintained. The guides ensure their gear is ready to catch fish.

It is only 3 weeks from the end of the season. The guides are thin and weather hardened and anxious to go home and see their families and friends. Three months aboard ship for these young men is a long time to spend in close quarters with new guests arriving every three to four days. Its hard to establish any lasting friendships in such a short time. Previous customers are as close to friends as these guys usually get. Other than the camaraderie and pranks played between the guides, these guys are all business when it comes to their fishing.

The water on the long 40 minute run from the floating doc’s around the Seeker to the fishing grounds just outside of the KANO inlet mouth are pleasant due to the flat seas. This can be a rough ride when the ocean is whipped up by the southerly winds. Today and the next few days are predicted to be perfect for both fish and fisherman alike.

My first fish is hooked within 30 minutes of our arrival at “the rock”. It’s the top of a large sea mound that collects mostly seagulls, seals and a bald eagle or two from time to time. Talk about starting out with a bang. My first fish is a 112 lb halibut. A true sea monster in every sense of the phrase. Aggressive and formidable, this fish can strip line from the reel at will and chooses only to surface on its own terms. After a 15 minute battle to the surface from 180 feet down, Andy, my guide, harpoons the “hali” which connects the fish to a two foot rope and basketball size yellow float. This prevents the fish from getting away and at the same time putting an end to this swimming career. Harpooning often results in an immediate and negative reaction from the fish. This usually then results in said fisherman getting covered in a cold sea water bath by the resistant tail of this freshly speared aquatic. Today is no exception, except this time the hook on my Halibut comes disengaged and the fish begins to swim away from the boat kept to the surface by the line and float. Remember the barrels in Jaws.. Just like it.. For those who have seen Cast Away with Tom Hanks, I could really relate to the scene where Tom is watching his beloved “WILSON” floating away. Here, my just caught Halibut was slowly bouncing away from the boat while we are anchored helplessly watching. Luckily we were able to swing the boat around and gaff hook the line and recover my catch. Attached is a photo of this lucky fisherman and his not so lucky prize.

I have also included a photo of my largest of 4 king salmon taken from the Keno.

Enjoy… Sincerely, Dave J.