The Nass Basecamp at Skeena River Lodge offers central access to some of the best two-handed fishing for Steelhead in the world. This cozy Canadian lodge is nestled in the Nass River drainage, about 3 hours north of Terrace, British Columbia. Here, anglers can target trophy Steelhead in the various rivers of the region. Expert guides utilize jet boats and rafts to access the Nass River and its tributaries such as the Bell Irving, Kiteen, and Meziadin Rivers. This quaint lodge features unpretentious accommodations and hearty food, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere between fishing sessions. For dedicated Steelhead anglers seeking an intimate experience, the Nass Basecamp offers excellent fishing opportunities and a remote feel.
Who It’s For
When To Go
The Nass Basecamp at Skeena River Lodge operates from mid-September through October. This short autumn season sees cooler temperatures and offers many opportunities for vigorous Steelhead. Due to scarce availability and the stellar fishing, the best time to stay at Nass Basecamp is whenever you can get there!
Steelhead
Often referred to as the “fish of 10,000 casts”, Steelhead are among the most prized salmonid species for anglers worldwide. These anadromous beasts can grow to well over 30 inches and will test even the most seasoned angler’s patience and wit. At the Nass Basecamp, anglers will target Steelhead using two-handed spey rods on some of the most picturesque rivers in the world.
Equipment
For Steelhead at Nass Basecamp, anglers should bring 13-14-foot rods in the 7-8 weight class. Your guide will help you rig appropriately for the day’s fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.
Day 1: From Home to Nass Basecamp
A week-long trip at the Nass Basecamp typically runs from Sunday to Sunday. Getting to the lodge generally begins with a Sunday flight to the Northwest Terrace Regional Airport (YXT), in Terrace, British Columbia. Once you’ve arrived in Terrace, a Skeena River Lodge representative will drive you approximately 3 hours to the lodge, where you can relax and enjoy a fabulous meal.
Days 2 - 7: The Fishing Days
Fishing days start with a full breakfast before heading out with your guide for the day. Fishing locations depend on your goals and the daily conditions and require a short drive to the river with your guide. Daily adventures include jet-boat trips on larger rivers, or using a raft to float from run to run. Hearty cooler lunches are packed by your guide each day, allowing you to eat and relax on the water. Following an afternoon fishing session, you’ll return to the lodge to unwind and enjoy a hot shower and a hearty meal. After dinner, you can unwind over cocktails with friends, or retire early to prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Day 8: From Nass Basecamp to Home
After your week of fishing, you’ll enjoy breakfast on Sunday morning before beginning your 3-hour drive back to the Northwest Terrace Regional Airport (YXT). From Terrace, you’ll board your flight to your home destination.
Accommodations
The Nass Basecamp features cozy guest rooms for single or double occupancy, although single occupancy is customary here. Each room is comfortably furnished and features heat and clothing storage.
The lodge cabin is warm and unpretentious and feels more like a family cabin than a fishing lodge. Angler capacity here is 4-6 rods per week, so you’ll enjoy a comfortable and intimate experience with your fellow anglers at this small, remote lodge.
Food
The meals at Nass Basecamp are hearty and nourishing, featuring hot breakfasts with strong coffee, riverside cooler lunches including hot soups, and delicious dinners featuring meats and fresh vegetables. Guests of Nass Basecamp will be well-fueled for their angling pursuits.
Connectivity
Satellite WiFi is available in the lodge. Although it is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions. Cell service may be available depending on your service plan and provider.
2024 Fishing Packages
Trident Travel’s expert planning service is free of charge. The rates below are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge.
Rates and inclusions are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing.
All rates are single occupancy (per person):
2025
Nass Basecamp (September 14 - October 26):
7 nights / 6 days = $7,390 CAD
What's Included:
What's Not Included:
What skill level is required for this trip?
We recommend this trip for intermediate to advanced Spey anglers. While not strenuous, guests need to be able to wade all day and climb safely in and out of boats. The rivers of the Nass drainage are medium-sized and generally easy to wade.
How should I prepare for a week of fly fishing in British Columbia?
Most importantly, you should practice spey casting, as you’ll be spey fishing for the entire week. Also, purchasing the right gear, tackle, and clothing is important - use our recommended packing lists. You should think about your goals for the trip so that you can relay them to your guides. Lastly, figure out your travel logistics well in advance.
How many fish will I catch?
The nature of swinging flies for any anadromous fish is that there is a lot of variation in catch rates. That said, we feel that guests should go into the trip with the expectation that hooking 1 fish per day is a great trip.
Is Nass Basecamp Family Friendly?
This trip is best suited to solo anglers or groups that like to fish for powerful Steelhead and enjoy a more remote, cozy experience. Guests will be swinging flies with Spey rods while wading. The fall season requires being able to fish through varying degrees of wet and/or cold weather.
Is it safe to fish near bears?
Most of the bear sightings are of Black Bears, which are skittish to humans and will typically flee away. The Brown Bears of British Columbia are wild animals and certainly demand respect and space. That being said, brown bears are rare here and are typically unbothered by human presence. Your guides will prepare you for any bear encounters to ensure a safe and memorable fishing experience.
Will I see other anglers?
Depending on the river and the time of year, yes you may see other anglers on the water. The rivers are not busy by American standards and everyone conforms to standard downstream fishing ethics.
How does money work in British Columbia?
Credit cards are accepted in Terrace and at the Lodge for any incidentals. Gratuities can be given in cash, either in USD or CAD currency.
Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. We recommend Travel Guard, a well-established insurance company offering excellent, affordable policies for angling travel.
What happens if I'm injured or have an emergency requiring evacuation?
Every situation is different when medical and security emergencies happen. To ensure you’re protected when things don’t go as planned, we highly recommend our clients enroll with Global Rescue.
What kind of electrical outlets are there?
Electrical outlets are the same as anywhere in the U.S. - 110 Volt AC power.
What is the weather like?
The coastal mountainous region of British Columbia is known for variable weather that can range drastically throughout a season and even throughout a day. Temperatures here can range anywhere from the low 30s to the upper 70s, Fahrenheit. With rain possible at any time, we recommend dressing in layers and packing a reliable Gore-Tex rain jacket, and quality chest waders to be prepared for the varying weather conditions at the Nass Basecamp.
Is tipping customary in British Columbia?
Yes, tipping is customary and appreciated, although it is at your discretion. Tipping 15-20 % of your trip total per person is recommended. Please plan on tipping in cash.