On the water
And from Masset, the grounds are only minutes away. Charters run May through September — space is limited each summer, so book early.
Day charters
Day fishing runs through Masset Fishing Adventures — independently operated by Bret Johnston and fishing these waters since 2000 — aboard purpose-built 24-ft Sea West boats with experienced, qualified guides and top-of-the-line gear. Smaller parties of two or three can charter the 18-ft Lifetimer at reduced rates, and larger groups can take the Cuxhaven with up to seven aboard.
Book a charter alongside a QCI stay and receive up to 10% off the fishing — or book your fishing directly with Masset Fishing Adventures if you’re staying elsewhere.
Lines off the dock
The fleet leaves the Masset Marina — the fishing grounds are minutes away.
Salmon, halibut & wildlife
Roughly eight hours on the water, with whales, eagles and sea lions for company.
Back with the catch
Home to clean up and cook it — though if the bite is slow and you’re keen, the guides have been known to stay out longer.
Fishing licences are the one thing not supplied — purchase yours before the trip.
Our vessels
The workhorse · up to 4 guests + guide
Purpose-built by Jenkins Marine for west-coast fishing and fully Transport Canada compliant. A heated cabin and private toilet keep you out of the elements between bites. Most day charters run on the Sea West, skippered by the experienced guides of Masset Fishing Adventures — in operation since 2000.
The 360° fish-fighting platform · 2–3 guests
An extremely stable open aluminum boat — no cover, no toilet, and an enormous fishing deck for its size. More economical to run, so charters on the Lifetimer come at reduced rates. She also serves as the Cuxhaven’s tender. Dress for the weather: rain suits and warm layers.
The floating lodge · 7 by day, sleeps 4
A 1995 fast trawler by Independent Shipwrights — seaworthy, comfortable, and equipped with the latest navigation and fishing aids. Fish from her decks, watch wildlife from the upper platform, or use her as a home base with a sport boat in tow.
Live-aboard adventures
Cruise the northern shores of Haida Gwaii in relative comfort aboard the Cuxhaven — multi-day fishing and sightseeing with your bunk, galley and covered decks along for the ride. Most guests are happy to watch the twilight fade from the deck before turning in; city skies don’t do that.
1–5 days
Local trips out of Masset
Fish and explore the north coast, overnighting at favourite anchorages like Seven Mile.
7–10 days
Inside Passage crossings
Between Vancouver Island, the Lower Mainland and Haida Gwaii — coastline unreachable any other way.
The Cuxhaven at anchor — your lodge travels with you.
Boat rentals
Prefer to run your own show? Self-guided boats are available for lease to qualified individuals — talk to Gary about experience requirements and availability for your dates.
Private moorage
Guests staying with QCI can moor in the Village of Masset Marina, usually $1.00/foot/day (subject to change — please inquire). The public wharf fills fast when the commercial salmon and crab fleets are in, so reserve your space early.
Guided tours
Boating and kayaking, sailing, and overland bus tours run across the islands — including trips to Ninstints and Gwaii Haanas National Park. Local operators sail out of Masset, and Gary is happy to point you to the right people, merchants and businesses for your stay.
Ask Gary about tour operators →In accordance with provincial law, alcohol may be consumed only while boats are tied up alongside or at anchor. Sea conditions can change quickly; for everyone’s safety, intoxication cannot be tolerated and the guide reserves the right to end any trip over a safety concern.
Charters are limited each summer and moorage fills early — one call to Gary sorts the boat, the bed and the dock.