Provincial fish forecast
Blackfish Lodge
Each year the province of BC issues a salmon return forecast. Following is excerpted from the 2016 outlook: "The Department of Fisheries and Oceans is calling for more than 250,000 mature Chinook returning to the coast of Vancouver Island. This number is twice the average run of around 120,000. This is not the only good news! The Columbia River is also expecting to see up to 800,000 Chinook returning this year, and the majority of these fish are going to be 4 year old fish. This means plenty of 30+ lb. fish this 2016 season!"
2016 remaining availability
We have decent availability remaining in June (great time for Chinook salmon fishing), limited availability in July, extremely limited availability in August (just 2 slots) and good availability in September (great freshwater fishing) - especially after the 5th.
We have a good amount of space just before, during, and just after the July 4th weekend. So, celebrate Canada Day and U.S. Independence Day with some fishing fireworks. We'll make you a great deal on a trip for this time as we always seem to have difficulty filling the lodge during this holiday. Make us an offer we can't refuse---really!
Call us at (206) 789-1224 or email to info@blackfishlodge.com and we'll be happy to assist you in planning your trip
Salmon habitat
Habitat is of prime importance to the health and survival of salmon and trout. Lodge owners Chris & Hannah Bennett are currently in charge of the unfortunately named M.E.S.S.S., a.k.a. Mainland Enhancement of Salmonid Species Society.
Have a look at their website here: https://salmonenhancement.wordpress.com/ to see how your business supports our local efforts.
Shoal Creek Habitat Enhancement Project
In July 2016 we plan to add 7.5 tons of washed spawning gravel in the upper regions of Shoal Harbour Creek, Gilford Island, and are currently seeking fit and enthusiastic people to help us move the gravel into the creek bed. Come and enjoy the fresh air while getting to know the locals. M.E.S.S.S will provide all volunteers with food and accomodation at the Salmon Coast Research Station. For further details please email Hannah Bennett: bennettsonbaker@xplornet.com