A Fisher’s Paradise – Blackfish Lodge
Vertical rocks plunge into the ocean. Mountains surround inlets. Untouched streams tumble through the forest and into the saltwater. The scent of cedar hangs in the air and bald eagles are as common as ravens. This is a wilderness escape, untouched by modern marvels. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Blackfish Lodge offers a cozy home base in the Canadian wilderness for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Located within the Great Bear Rainforest, Canada’s newest preserve, it is ideal for relaxing and unwinding from life’s everyday hustle and bustle. Don’t expect to keep up with your favorite shows though. It’s a TV free zone. The average day includes 10 hours of fishing. Additional adventures are also available such as bird watching and kayaking. Those needing a little connection to the outside world enjoy the complimentary WiFi. For your musical delight, the lodge has a selection of CDs and an upright piano. The lodge is owned and operated by year-round residents, Chris and Hannah Bennett. It has a maximum capacity of 6 adults. This ensures no visit will be overly crowded.
Food & Drink
Meals at Blackfish Lodge are cooked and served family style. They often feature a fresh selection of locally sourced crab, prawns, salmon, and halibut. You might also find homemade soup, prime rib, lamb, fresh salads, pasta, and vegetables. Most of the baked goods are made in-house. And, a selection of award winning Okanogan Valley and imported wines, beer, and other beverages are also provided.
Those on all day salmon or fly-fishing trips enjoy a generous supply of food and hot and cold drinks on the boat. If you have any specific wants or dietary restrictions, the lodge is happy to try to accommodate. Just be sure to call ahead.
Fishing Season
While fishing season runs from April to October, the busy season begins in June when the weather is a little warmer. This is when the morning fog has stopped rolling in and the aspens and the poplars have begun to leaf out. Click here to view fish by month.
Reservations fill up quickly, as most of the guests return year after year. If you’re planning on visiting, I’d book my trip now.
Here’s one of my favorite comments about Blackfish Lodge so far:
Rarely today do the stars and moon work their charm so elegantly as in the sky surrounding Blackfish Lodge. The environment is the total sum of hard working, like minded people pulling in the same direction with the sole purpose of sharing an experience worthy of exaltation and wonder. I tip my cap to Chris, Hannah and their crew of volunteers and working guides. Authentic smiles, gestures of friendship and the constant desire to make the experience worthy of a lifetime memory came through. I am grateful for the opportunity to have spent time in such a lovely environment with such splendid company.
– Alan, Oregon
