Adopted 3 April 1934 on 92F/4 as labeled on Chart 340 and Captain Barclay's Survey (1787) and as submitted by H.D. Parizeau (30 October 1933) and OBF 1444. Previously appeared as Waikaninish (Dr. Mclean, doctor's notes), Wakennenish (Reference Map 2A "Vancouver Island, Southerly" (1912, 1920), 1930 Gazetteer), Hui qui na ni chi (Spanish Explorers, St. Juan de Fuca). In lieu of the original paperwork this name was reconfirmed 31 December 1946.

Source: BC place name cards & correspondence, and/or research by BC Chief Geographer & Geographical Names Office staff.

Recorded as being named after the heriditary chief, Wickaninnish, of the Tla-o-qui-aht nation. Wickaninnish was a prominent figure throughout 1785-1810, the peak of the sea otter pelt trade.

Source: BC place name cards & correspondence, and/or research by BC Chief Geographer & Geographical Names Office staff.

"Wickaninish is the hereditary name of the principal chief of the Tla-o-qui-aht (Clayoquot) First Nation. According to George Clutesi, who was a member of the neighbourig Tseshaht First Nation, the word came from the Kwakwala language and originated farther N at Kyuquot. It is usually translated as "having no one in front of him in the canoe." Many other spellings have been recorded, including Waikaninish, Wick-a-nook, Huiquinanichi, Quiquinanis and Wakennenish. The name was sometimes used to refer to the Tla-o-qui-aht people in general, or even to the confederation of regional First Nations known as the Nuu-chah-nuulth. The Chief Wickaninnish who was active in the late 1700s held great power in the Clayoquot region, where he was the undisputed ruler and had numerous interactions, not always friendly, with early fur traders such as John Meares, Robery Gray and James Colnett. Meares noted that "it was very much in our interest to conciliate his regard and cultivate his friendship."" (p. 643)

Source: BC place name cards & correspondence, and/or research by BC Chief Geographer & Geographical Names Office staff.