August delivered strong fishing at Eagle Pointe Lodge, highlighted by standout Coho salmon action, increased Chinook retention limits, dependable halibut fishing, and plenty of marine wildlife. Guests experienced productive days on the water throughout the month, creating lasting memories and taking home some impressive catches.
Chinook Salmon: Higher Limits and Big Fish Late in the Run
August brought welcome news for Chinook anglers. On August 1st, retention limits increased to two Chinook per day and four in possession. The change gave guests greater harvest opportunities and was met with enthusiasm throughout the lodge.
Many anglers took advantage of the increased limits during their stay. While Chinook catches were not as consistent as they were earlier in the season, quality fish continued to be landed throughout the month.
A notable feature of August was the number of large late-season Chinook that were encountered.
While it is never easy to lose a trophy fish, there is also something rewarding about knowing those powerful salmon likely continued their journey toward their spawning grounds. Having the opportunity to briefly “shake hands” with such remarkable fish is part of what makes salmon fishing so special.
Coho Salmon: The Fish of the Month
Coho were undoubtedly the stars of the show this month.
This year’s run seemed to arrive in distinct schools, and when anglers found themselves in the right place at the right time, the action was nothing short of electric. Multiple hook-ups and fast-paced fishing created unforgettable experiences for guests and guides alike.
There were plenty of fish filtering through our local waters throughout much of the month, keeping anglers on their toes from the first lines in the morning until the end of the day. The abundance of fish allowed guides to stay on productive schools and consistently provide exciting opportunities.
The size of the fish held up as well. Coho averaged 9 to 10 pounds throughout August, with the largest landed weighing 13.5 pounds.
As the month progressed, the number of Coho being encountered began to slow, which is typical for this time of year. The numbers tapered off from the peak of the run, but the size of the retained fish held.
Halibut Fishing
Halibut fishing remained a reliable option throughout August and continued the consistency we have enjoyed all season. Guests found success across a variety of locations, with strong catch rates and quality fish coming to the boat.
Along with strong numbers, the average size of the retained halibut ran high. Plenty of fish came in close to the maximum retention size limit of 112 cm. There were also plenty of oversized catch and releases this month, with the big halibut tuned into the abundant salmon in the area.
All the halibut retained fell into the ideal eating range. The dependable halibut fishery helped round out many successful days on the water and remains a cornerstone of the Eagle Pointe Lodge experience.
Marine Wildlife Sightings
August also brought some of the best wildlife viewing we have seen in years.
Humpback whales were everywhere this month, with numbers that may be the highest we have witnessed in recent memory. They were spread throughout Dixon Entrance East, feeding heavily and taking advantage of the abundant food sources available before migration. It was common for guests to encounter multiple different pods of humpback whales during a single day on the water.
Transient orcas were also spotted frequently throughout the month. One pod was estimated at more than 40 whales, travelling and hunting through the area in a sight the boats talked about afterward. It was a reminder of the marine ecosystem that surrounds Eagle Pointe Lodge.
Looking Ahead
As the season begins to wind down, August will be remembered for its coho fishing, consistent halibut action and the wildlife that came with it.
One final group is on the water now, closing out the 2026 season. The bottom gave them an unexpected send-off, with halibut retention opening to two per day and two in possession for September. A late change, and a promising one for the fishery as we look toward 2027.
Tight lines,
Jonathan Beaty
Read more from The Eagles View, including past fishing reports and stories from the lodge.