Protected glassy calm water, white sandy beaches, scenic islands, picturesque channels, steep fiords, clams, Dungeness crab, cod, halibut, all five species of salmon and trout from coastal streams are enhanced by the sunny skies and warm days that occur during the peak of the summer months. On this central coast section of the fabulous Inside Passage Westwind Tugboats "Follow the Fish" and at the same time enjoys some of the best scenery in British Columbia. Experience close encounters with schools of porpoise, Orca and Grey whales as you move daily to stay on the fish. This area also boasts some famous trophy fishing spots - River's Inlet, Hakai Pass and Milbanke Sound are all within your range and Westwind's guests fish these as well as their private anchorages and secluded hot spots.
Trophy Chinook salmon are most abundant in late July and early August with fish being taken in the 35-85lb. range. Halibut fishing is very productive in this region with many hot spots to test throughout the week, halibut average 30-120lbs. The Coho runs become thick in August with the salmon feeding vigorously and near the surface, averaging 15-18lbs., they provide consistent exciting light tackle action. This unique abundance and variety is hard to match anywhere else in British Columbia and the opportunity also exists for some fabulous estuary and salt water fly fishing.
Anglers can take advantage of the calm water channels that allow access to river estuaries and bays teaming with salmon waiting for the right conditions to migrate upstream, try your luck from your custom skiff or go ashore and cast from the river's edge and at the same time enjoy a beach BBQ including pots full of mouth-watering Dungeness crab and little neck steamer clams. Scenery, good weather, sandy beaches, clam digging and spectacular fishing make Bella Bella one of the top adventure locations on the coast, Westwind recommends this area for individuals and families who want the best variety and calm waters.
Cruise Details
Duration
7 Days/6 Nights
Location
British Columbia
Season
July - September
Cruise Type
Overnight
Nearest City
Bella Bella
Physical Condition Required
Fair
Destination(s)
British Columbia, Canada
Fully Crewed
Yes
Guest Capacity
8-12
Accommodations
Westwind’s 1941 heritage wooden tugboats, the Union Jack and Parry, are lovingly maintained and beautifully appointed with comfortable two-berth cabins, fireside lounge/library, spotless bathrooms and showers plus a busy galley serving unbelievable food and desserts. Creature comforts are provided with bathrobes, extra pillows, hair dryers, and a complimentary selection of wines from around the world. The skipper and crew are eager to pamper you and the shipboard camaraderie is totally relaxing. Guests are encouraged to visit the pilothouse and take a turn at the wheel or a tour of the spotless engine room and watch the smooth operation of these antique engines.
Dining
All meals provided. The meals aboard the tugboats are legendary, Westwind's talented chefs provide a diverse and balanced traditional North American menu. Fresh fish and seafood will always be part of the week and this can be increased or decreased as you desire. Westwind asks you to inform them of any dietary needs or desires as they want to make your adventure both personal and comfortable.
Rates
$5,195.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
If you are not planning your own transportation to the tugboat departure point, Westwind has reserved airfare from Vancouver to the tugboat and return for all guests. This includes all airport transfers and reserved space for your prize catch. The cost is $400 per person. Payable to Westwind.
Frequently Asked Questions What are the average temperatures? Fishing: Daytime 60-75°F/Nighttime 50-65°F Cruising: Daytime 60-75°F/Nighttime 50-60°F
Do you have to reserve the whole vessel? No. Westwind honors reservations for individuals as well as exclusive group bookings.
Where does Westwind operate? Westwind offers both fishing and cruising adventures. The cruises depart out of Vancouver, Victoria and Prince Rupert while they offer three fishing areas, Langara Island (Queen Charlotte Islands), Prince Rupert and Bella Bella.
How do you get to the Tugboat? All tugboat departure ports are serviced by air from Vancouver. Westwind will recommend and reserve space on the most convenient flight available or guests may choose to travel via car, ferry or train to departure ports (not all options available in all areas).
Is fishing done from the Tugboat? You will fish from custom designed 18' fishing skiffs outfitted with Depth sounder, radio, center console and 50hp, 4-stroke Honda engines. Two anglers per skiff although they comfortably fish three adults. Numerous halibut have been landed from the deck of the tugboats while at anchor and guests are encouraged to try their luck.
What fishing tackle should be brought? The tugboats are outfitted with all the tackle required; rods, reels, bait, Jigs, flies as well as all your weather wear, including boots. Fly fisherman are asked to supply fly rods/reels and line. A pair of binoculars and a camera can add to the special moments and memories.
Can fish be taken home? Yes! Your catch will be professionally cleaned, frozen and packed for airline travel or you may choose to have Westwind make arrangements for your catch to be processed (smoked, canned, vacuum packed, etc.). This would follow you by up to six weeks and is delivered to your home or office.
Do the Tugboats travel at night? No. This is a leisurely cruise - the tugs travel only a couple hours per day when Following the Fish, and four to eight hours when on a Cruising Adventure. Westwind wants you to enjoy adventure by day and the solitude of the evening, including a restful night's sleep anchored in a quiet peaceful cove.
When is the best time for fishing? The unique advantage of a Westwind Tugboat Adventure is their mobility. Westwind pioneered the use of mobility to "Follow the Fish" as they migrate from north to south. They choose the best regions and fish only during their prime weeks, moving daily to stay on the run. Their fishing season is from May 25-September 20th. Chinook(King) Salmon from May 25-August 25th: Coho(Silver) Salmon from July 1-September 20th: Halibut and Bottom fish all season. Fly fishing from August 1-September 20th.
How far in advance do reservations need to be made? Westwind has been in operation since 1974 and enjoys a 70% repeat clientele. With both a limited season and space, they recommend reserving a year in advance, but please call to check on available space at anytime.
Are there activities for non-fishermen? As you cruise through the majestic fiords and picturesque channels, choose to go ashore beachcombing, clamdigging or maybe a wilderness hike to a secluded lake. Whales are your companions and often provide close encounters of the magnificent kind as you travel side by side. Explore the shore line and river estuaries viewing the abundant wildlife studying the fauna or just taking in the serenity of being alone in the remote reaches of the Inside Passage. You will visit ghost towns, historical sights and waterfalls. If you like to read the tugboats have an extensive library, relax all by yourself with your choice of book in the lounge or on the upper deck as the other guests enjoy some fishing. Westwind's crew will be happy to go along and provide some local insight or to just guide you towards your pleasure and let you enjoy on your own.
COMPLIMENTARY VISITOR GUIDES
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