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Nanook Lodge
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Nanook Lodge
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Nanook Lodge
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Nanook Lodge
By Darcy Nybo
When you’re looking at fishing lodges, “remote” and “not easily accessible” don’t have to mean “no amenities.” Owned and operated by the father/son duo of Sam and Larry Anderson, Nanook Lodge provides you with all the comforts you need, and then some.
This year, Nanook Lodge celebrates its 20th season as one of the best fishing lodges in the Discovery Islands. Located at the entrance to Bute Inlet on Stuart Island, the lodge is only accessible by boat, floatplane, or helicopter. Fortunately, the island and lodge have all you need for the perfect fishing vacation.
Nanook Lodge can accommodate 16 guests at a time (20 if they are really close friends). The Cedar guest lodge has queen-size beds with private baths, as well as a dining room, bar, and entertainment area.
Now, about those fish. Stuart Island is blessed with a long fishing season that runs from April to October. In the early season – April to June – come to fish for 7-11 kg (15-25 lb) chinook in the mainland inlets. Another plus of springtime fishing is the dramatic scenery and wildlife viewing. From July to September, you’ll be fishing for five species of salmon: chinook, coho, sockeye, pink, and chum. And all can be found nearby in the waters around Stuart Island.
The lodge uses 7.3-8 m (24-26 ft) Pursuit sport fishers, equipped with downriggers for trolling with fly-rods. There is also an aluminum boat for eco-tours. Every full day at the lodge, you are guaranteed ten hours of guided fishing, which you can combine with eco-touring, wildlife viewing, or even hiking, should you so desire.
The wildlife in the area will take your breath away. Large and turbulent tidal currents create a nutrient-rich water column that attracts and holds huge schools of baitfish, which in turn draw birds, whales, dolphins, porpoises, salmon, and lingcod. You may be surprised at the number of eagles and humpback whales they see here.
When you aren’t out fishing, there’s so much to do and explore. On the lodge’s grounds, take part in bocce ball, beanbag toss, darts, horseshoes, or a giant game of Jenga. At night, sit around the fire pit and reminisce about the day’s fishing while listening to music.
As for the food, prepare to be pampered. Your all-inclusive stay here includes lodging and delicious gourmet meals. Fresh oysters on the grill, Dungeness crab, clams, and pawns are some of the lodge specialties.
Nanook Lodge is the perfect place for a corporate retreat, a group get-together, or a family vacation. For more information, visit their website at www.nanooklodge.com.