Nootka Sound

In March 1778 Captain James Cook of the Royal Navy stopped in Friendly Cove on Nootka Island for water and became the first European to set foot on British Columbian soil. Later used as a trading port by not only the English but the Spanish and American traders it became a focal point for trade up and down the coast. Today's Nootka Sound has become a haven for fishermen and nature lovers alike. Many consider Nootka Sound to be the premier fishing grounds in all of British Columbia due to the large size of the fish and the multiple opportunities available to catch them. All 5 species of Pacific salmon as well as 12 species of bottom fish are found here. Prawning is also a favourite way to compliment your evening meal. The treed hillsides and deep fiords make Nootka Sound a beautiful and spectacular place to explore. If you keep your eyes open you will probably see a bear or two taking advantage of low tide for a meal of shellfish.

The 5 Pacific Salmon Species

Tahsis

Tucked between mountains and Tahsis Inlet you will find the Village of Tahsis. The name Tahsis is derived from the language of the First Nations people who lived here for thousands of years. Tahshees means "passage way" and one can easily see how the First Nations people arrived at this name after viewing the long, narrow Tahsis inlet that connects Tahsis to the open sea.

Tahsis was formerly a bustling mill town with the mill providing almost all of the town’s employment. In its heyday Tahsis boasted a population of over 2500 people. With the closing of the mill the population is now closer to 500 permanent residents and another 400 that arrive for the summer only. Now the focal point of Tahsis is its beautiful scenery and outstanding fishing. Many artists have come to make Tahsis their home and record its beauty with pen and brush. Kayakers and hikers also flock to Tahsis to explore its sheltered waters and many trails. The Nootka Trail which circles Nootka Island is world renowned for its rugged beauty as it winds through rainforest and along white sand beaches. Some consider the Nootka Trail to be an equal yet less busy alternative to the famous West Coast Trail. Whale watching and other wildlife viewing is also popular. Tahsis serves as a convenient starting point for all these activities.