2011 Trip 4 - Pacific Swift

West coast rain settled in overnight, persistently washing over the surrounding hills and troubling the waters. The trainees have a large reserve of enthusiasm and sense of adventure which no sodden downpour can diminish. Anchor was smartly weighed after breakfast and we traveled amongst the otters a little deeper into Quatsino Sound while waiting for some contrary weather to pass bye on the outside of the island.  We tried our hand at a little bottom fishing and found that the cod struck on well. Several red snapper found their way aboard to enable us to plan for a fish and chips dinner for 37. Anchorage was made in pristine Koskimo Bay, near the mouth of a river trimmed in cheerful deciduous trees, a nice contrast to the stern and hoary cedars that dominate the landscape. The intrepid spirit continued amongst the crew and an expotition was planned to row up the river. The rain fell heavily as the dories pushed off and entered the river mouth, salmon leaping in the shoal waters. The serpentine flow of the river was beautifully nestled between rich rainforest and steep clifts. Eventually the river narrowed so as to be impassable and time was spent swimming and diving in the cool fresh waters. The gentle down river voyage was blessed with the return of the sun breaking through the heavy charcoal clouds. Lessons on navigation safety preceded the anticipated dinner. The fresh fish was transformed into battered fish and chips and not a morsel was left over. There was a great appreciation for the meal, the result of the work from all involved in the whole process.