OP REPORT: The Season is Underway - June 8, 2026

Hello once again from The Outpost, where the 2026 season is officially underway!

After another west coast winter, it has been great to see the lodge come back to life. The preseason setup went smoothly, the lodge is looking sharp, the docks are busy again, and the boats are dialed in for another summer on the water. The coffee has been flowing, the rain gear has already been tested, and there have been plenty of good laughs around the dock as everyone settles back into the rhythm of the season.

The weather has stayed true to the coast so far — a little wet, a little wild, and then just enough sunshine to remind us why we all love it here. Opening week, however, treated us better than most, with a welcome stretch of sun, blue skies, and calm seas. Water conditions have been favourable, with no real big-water events to contend with yet, making for comfortable runs between fishing areas and steady time on the rods throughout the day.

Fishing has been pretty good through the first week, with guests getting plenty of opportunities and steady action across the fleet. Chinook salmon have been showing up in key areas, and the guides have been working hard to keep everyone into fish throughout the day. We have already seen three Tyees released in this opening week, which is always exciting and a great sign of what may be ahead as the season continues. Alongside those larger fish, there have been a number of quality Chinook in the mix as well, keeping the dock conversations lively each evening.

We are also excited to welcome several new faces to The Outpost team this season. Joining the guide crew are Owen Bouwman, Shane O’Keefe, and Brigham Smith. On the dock, Sam Wright and Georgia Naish are helping keep things running smoothly, and Carys Matthews has joined the inside team. Everyone is already fitting right into the Outpost way of doing things — working hard, keeping guests smiling, and never missing the chance to tell a slightly exaggerated fish story.

The energy around the property has been fantastic. Boats are ready, gear is organized, and every day brings us one step further into another great summer here at The Outpost.

All in all, it has been a solid start. The weather has cooperated, the fish have been participating, and the fun has just started. We are excited to welcome both returning guests and first-time visitors back to The Outpost for great fishing, great food, and plenty of memories on and off the water.

See you soon,

Shawn Crawford
General Manager, The Outpost