One Canadian angler’s lifelong quest to build his perfect West Coast fishing boat

Canada’s West Coast is one of the most breathtaking places on the planet, a majestic confluence of rugged coastline, ancient forests and untamed sea. Its remoteness only enhances the sense of wonder, with unspoiled beaches, legendary fishing grounds and wilderness adventures inspiring countless tales. For most people, however, those experiences will remain out of reach—unless, of course, they have a boat.

In Comox, B.C., where I was raised, boats weren’t a luxury—they were a way of life. My grandfather and father both guided at world-renowned Painter’s Lodge in nearby Campbell River. A black-and-white photograph still hangs there of my father beside Ella Hess on July 30, 1951, proudly holding a chinook salmon weighing more than 75 pounds. Another catch, a 56-pound salmon, now mounted in the main hall of Yuculta Lodge, stands as further tribute to their skill. Both fish were caught in Campbell River’s storied Tyee pool, rowing classic Painter boats handcrafted by local brothers Ned and Joe Painter.

The summer of 1968 marked my first real step into that tradition. After months of saving, I bought a modest fibreglass dinghy, powered by an unstoppable two-cylinder British Seagull outboard from the 1940s. By the time university came around, I’d built a working knowledge of small engine repair and marine safety.

Various certifications followed—lifeguard, SCUBA diver and marine radio operator—then training with the Canadian Coast Guard to inspect vessels, teach boating safety and serve in search-and-rescue operations. During my off-hours, I kept a pager close by and volunteered with the local Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary unit, ready at a moment’s notice. That early exposure gave me a deep respect for the water, and for those who work on it.

I’ve owned, operated and repaired many vessels, and in recent years I began the search for what might well be my last boat. Many name-brand models offered modern features, yet none truly aligned with my vision. So, I turned to something more intentional: a design-build approach, beginning with a clear picture of every detail I wanted, then bringing it to life from the hull up. What I didn’t expect was how cost-effective, and deeply personal, that route would become.