Why Haida Gwaii Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List: Canada’s Coastal Gem

December 10, 2025

Set off the northern coast of British Columbia, Haida Gwaii is known for natural beauty, rich wildlife, and cultural roots. It is an island full of character that offers a style of travel that feels very different from your typical vacation spot. For guests who stay with the West Coast Fishing Club, the experience becomes even more meaningful thanks to the Club’s locations, comfort, and three decades of familiarity with the area.

Whether you are visiting for adventure, fishing, the wildlife, or simply a change of pace, Haida Gwaii offers all of it in one place. Here are a few reasons it belongs on your bucket list. 

Wildlife You See Up Close 

Wildlife sightings are common here. It is normal to see bald eagles flying overhead, sea 

creatures resting along the rocks, and whales passing by the fishing grounds. Guests often spot humpbacks on their way to and from the lodge, and orcas make appearances throughout the season. 

The wildlife here is part of everyday life, which is a big part of the island’s charm.Check out the some of the wildlife highlights featured in our Clubhouse and Outpost fishing reports

A Top Fishing Destination 

Haida Gwaii is one of the best places in North America for Salmon and Halibut fishing. The waters are productive, the scenery is beautiful and the fishing experience is truly exciting. 

All Pacific salmon species follow a major migratory path as they return from the Arctic feeding grounds to the river systems where they were born. Langara Island sits right at the head of this pathway, which is why the fishing remains consistently strong year after year. 

The area is one of the few points on the entire migration where nearly every salmon must pass through the same waters. As a result, the diversity of salmon that move through Langara are unmatched on either side of the coast. 

Another reason the fishing at Haida Gwaii feels unmatched is the strong fight the salmon put up. When salmon return to this part of Haida Gwaii, they are at their peak strength, having spent years roaming the Pacific. 

Short runs and Flexibility 

At both The Outpost and The Clubhouse, guests enjoy some of the shortest runs to the fishing grounds anywhere in B.C. Within minutes of leaving the dock, you’re already in prime waters - meaning more time with lines in the water, more opportunity to follow the bite as it moves, and less time spent traveling. These quick runs not only maximize your fishing day, they also make the overall experience more comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable, especially when weather shifts. It’s one of the signature advantages that sets our lodges apart.

A Marine Ecosystem that Supports More than Salmon 

While salmon are the star attraction, Haida Gwaii’s water supports much more. The island is home to large schools of herring and other baitfish, keeping salmon actively feeding in the area instead of only passing through. This also supports strong halibut and bottom fishing, making the area one of the most well rounded fishing spots on the coast. 

This is why guests return year after year. The fishing variety and reliability are hard to match anywhere else. 

Culture Shaped by the Haida Nation 

The cultural history of Haida Gwaii is an important part of visiting. The Haida Nation has lived on the island since time immemorial, and their traditions, culture, art, and stories shape the identity of the region. We encourage our guests to  learn about local history and take time to understand the significance of the land. 

A Unique Culinary Experience 

The culinary experience at both lodges is rooted in West Coast cuisine and deeply influenced by the waters that surround us. Our chefs draw inspiration from the region’s coastal bounty, crafting dishes that highlight fresh seafood, local ingredients, and the flavours of Haida Gwaii. Every meal reflects a sense of place - elegant, comforting, and connected to the rugged shoreline and rich marine life just beyond our doors. 

When you stay with us at the West Coast Fishing Club, you can expect meals that feel just as memorable as your time on the water. 

How Booking with West Coast Fishing Club Can Make Your Trip Stress-Free 

Traveling to a remote destination can often feel intimidating, but booking with West Coast Fishing Club takes almost all the stress out of the process 

Here is what WCFC handles for you: 

  • Private charger flights. You don’t need to navigate complex routes, WCFC arranges transport directly from Vancouver to Haida Gwaii 
  • Lodge transfers and daily coordination. Once you land, every part of the process is handled. 
  • Fishing gear and equipment. 
  • Professional guides experienced with all skill levels
  • Meals, snacks, and comfortable accommodations. From breakfast to dinner, everything is looked after! 

You can read more about trip information and what to know before you go here!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

What is the best time to visit? 

May through September is the prime season for weather, salmon migration, and wildlife. Read more about what each month has to offer here

How can I get to Haida Gwaii?

When you book a trip with West Coast Fishing Club, we arrange a private charger flight from Vancouver so the journey is direct and easy.

Is fishing beginner-friendly? 

Yes, the guides at WCFC are experienced with all skill levels and can support you every step of the way. On the other hand, if you are a more experienced angler and prefer to set sail on your own, we have the option of self-guided trips as well. 

What wildlife can I expect? 

Humpback whales, orcas, sealions, eagles, and more. Sightings are common throughout the season. 

What activities are offered other than fishing? 

We also offer sea kayaking, paddle boarding, and whale watching at The Outpost. 

How long is the typical trip? 

We offer 4 Day / 3 Night packages, and 5 Day / 4 Night packages.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Your comment will be displayed once it is approved by the site admin.

Your email address will not be published.
Your comment will be displayed once it is approved by the site admin.

Thank you! Your comment has been posted.
Oops! Something went wrong while posting your comment.
0 Comments
JOHN BAKER
6 Hours Ago

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros vitae elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet.

Reply
Delete
Author Name
Comment Time

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut libero commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem enim imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere. uis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat.

Reply
Delete
100 Day Countdown Begins!
February 16, 2018
September to Remember
January 11, 2019
The Stan Clan Takes Over
January 17, 2019
See you in September?
August 14, 2019
2019 Season Summary
October 15, 2019
2021 Season Update
June 14, 2021
2021 Season Outlook
June 25, 2021
See you in September?
August 12, 2021
2021 Season Summary
December 8, 2021
Remembering Randy Lee
October 12, 2023
2024 Season Summary
September 25, 2024