WCL Self Guided

[Flywheel]

I’ll be going to Queen Charlotte Lodge on a self guided package first week of July. I’m very experienced fishing on the west coast of VI, but this will be my first trip to QCL.

I’ve searched the forum, but have a few questions for those who have been or know the area:
1. Is it worth bringing any of my own tackle to run?
2. I have experience cut plug mooching as well as running traditional downrigger set ups. Which should expect to do more of assuming weather isn’t a factor.
3. Are there any typical hot spots in the area or any other tips? Hoping to find some bigger springs.

Thanks!

 

[Dogbreath]

1-a favourite spoon or three Yes ditto hootchies/flashers but don't over do it they don't skimp on tackle.

2-Whatever you prefer I learned to cut plug back in the 80's & 90's up in the Gwaii but prefer downrigging.

3-Dial back your expectations fishing there is nothing like it was back in the day-expect to be lied to.

 

[Old Blue]

Might as well bring a few spoons as Dogbreath suggested. I think they're using chovies more and more up there these days to boost # of catches cause it can be slim pickings.

Was up in the area 09 and 10 and it was more of a right time right place at Snake (Bird 2 QCL calls it) or Parker for the big ones on a slow roll cut plug also sometimes zero fish and have to chase the tide lines offshore for fish. Bird 1 has an awesome ledge off the rock a little ways and fish hang on either edge waiting to ambush prey.

Shag rock can have great ling fishing if you're careful not to end up in the rocks or worse on the rocks.

Klash to Green Pt can hold a lot of bait and a big mixture of springs, coho, lings and even Hali's.

Here's a handy map:

https://fishqcl.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/QCL-Chart-2013w.jpg

 

[Hardy Guy]

Fish and have fun. Their tackle will work ... they want you to catch fish.

 

[spoiler]

I have been there a few times. Running cut plugs off the downriggers or an anchovy in a teaser head naked (without a flasher) has been very effective. My favorite spot is Bird Rock 2. If you can get into the pocket in the kelp bed that's between the little island and the main island sometimes there's a big one living there. I saw a 55lber pulled out of there the first time I fished it.