Lunch at Fisherman’s Lodge on the Oyster River
Since suffering from the dreaded “cold that wouldn’t go away” yours truly had reached the point where his Missus decreed that it was time for him to get outside and play.
A quick call to his trusty fishing side-kick proved disappointing as said side-kick’s recently moved daughter from Alberta was using his services as a “ranch hand” and he was relegated to digging fence post holes for the wayward moggies on her new homestead.
“She who must” (be obeyed) had decided to head to Campbell River to do some errands and running-around and your humble scribe tagged-along. His thinking: be dropped-off at the Fisherman’s Lodge on the Oyster River and he could fish his troubles and departing cold away.
Having the river to himself, he decided to begin fishing at the bridge close to the pub and worked his way downwards – stopping well before the rapids. The water was indeed fishable as has been mentioned. Very clear and fast moving – always a wise idea to use the wading stick; especially, here. A chilly breeze blew from the river’s mouth; so, it was a good idea he wore a warm toque. The water was cold and before too long, his toes were beginning to feel nippy.
Fortunately, “she who must” appeared on the scene in a timely fashion and we decided to head inside the pub for some warmth and good cheer. Never having ventured inside the building, it was an adventure waiting to be had.
The Fisherman’s Lodge, still quietly sits beside the Oyster River. An historic establishment it retains its old world charm when this type of lodging style would have been popular in the early fishing days of the Oyster River.
The place will never have a Michelin Star rating; but, it’s a neat-old bar with Ladies and Gents separate entrances and inside some fishing memorabilia. Best french-fries ‘in the Comox Valley” according to the young guy flippin’ burgers and who brought us our fish n’ chips. (The potatoes are coated in flour dredging, before being dipped-in the deep fryer, with the result, they weren’t greasy; but, flakey and tender).
All in all, a fun time on a lovely Spring-like day – only to awake this Sunday morning to see the overnight covering of snow waiting to be shovelled.
