Skeena River Lodge

Skeena River Lodge offers central access to some of the best two-handed fishing for anadromous Steelhead and Salmon in the world. This well-appointed Canadian lodge sits on the banks of the gorgeous Skeena River, just north of Terrace, British Columbia. Here, anglers can target all 5 Pacific Salmon species and trophy Steelhead as they migrate upstream. Expert guides utilize jet boats and rafts to access the Skeena and its tributaries such as the Copper and Kalum Rivers. The modern lodge features high-end accommodations and exquisite food, ensuring the comfort and nourishment of anglers between fishing sessions. For dedicated Steelhead anglers to two-handed novices, Skeena River Lodge offers excellent fishing opportunities and luxurious amenities.

Who It’s For

• Dedicated Steelhead anglers
• Spey fishing enthusiasts
• Fishing-oriented groups

When To Go

Skeena River Lodge operates from March through October. In the early season, from March through April, anglers target powerful winter Steelhead on the Skeena River and its tributaries. Early season can be downright frigid, replete with iced guides and potential snow storms. For the intrepid angler, however, spring fishing can offer up some of the biggest and strongest Steelhead of the season. As spring runoff subsides in late May, the mighty Chinook Salmon make their way into the Skeena River system. June can offer anglers the shot at trophy Chinooks using heavy skagit style two-handed techniques. Although it's not easy fishing, landing a Chinook Salmon on a fly rod is considered one of angling’s greatest feats. Summertime on the Skeena brings the remaining four Pacific Salmon species, as well as the nicest weather of the season. During July and August anglers can achieve a grand slam, with target species including Sockeye, Pinks, Chum, Coho, Chinook, and Steelhead. The fall season, from August through October, sees cooler temperatures and opportunities for acrobatic Coho Salmon and vigorous Steelhead.

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 Skeena River Lodge, anglers will target Steelhead using two-handed spey rods on some of the most picturesque rivers in the world.

Sockeye Salmon

The Skeena River system boasts a robust Sockeye Salmon (aka Red Salmon) run from July through August. Not only are these crimson-colored Salmon extremely fun to catch on a fly rod, but targeting them is a visual game, as they often fin the shallow riffles and tailouts of the river. Sockeyes in the Skeena drainage average roughly 7 pounds, with larger specimens up to 12+ pounds caught each August.

Chinook Salmon

Generally available from June into mid-July, Chinook Salmon (aka King Salmon) are the largest and strongest of the 5 pacific salmon species. Targeting Chinooks on the Skeena is not for the faint of heart, where you’ll need heavy sink tips and lots of patience to hook a fish. Once you’ve hooked up, landing a goliath Chinook Salmon is equally as difficult, as these anadromous giants can weigh up to 40+ pounds.

Coho Salmon

August, September, and October bring the run of Coho Salmon (aka Silver Salmon) into the Skeena River system. Cohos are one of our favorite species, as the takes are aggressive and the fights often feature leaping acrobatics. The genetics of Skeena River Cohos are impressive compared to other fisheries, where here you can target fish weighing up to 30 pounds.

Chum Salmon

Available between mid-July and mid-August, Chum Salmon (aka Dog Salmon) are one of the more picturesque and underrated salmon species. As they begin spawning, they turn from chrome silver to a striped green, purple, and red coloration. Chums are also one of the hardest fighting salmon species, pound for pound. 

Pink Salmon

From July through August, Pink Salmon (aka Humpy Salmon) are the smallest and most beginner-friendly of the Pacific Salmon species. Pinks are characterized by a giant “humpback” appearance, and long, kype jaws. Their prehistoric looks and their willingness to take flies make them a fun target for beginners and advanced anglers alike.

Equipment

Deciding which spey rods and lines to bring to Skeena River Lodge depends on the species you will be targeting. For Chinook Salmon, anglers should bring 14 to 15-foot spey rods in the 8-9-10 weight class. For Steelhead and the other Salmon species, anglers should bring 13-14-foot rods in the 7-8-9 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 Skeena River Lodge

A week-long trip at Skeena River Lodge 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 30 minutes 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 almost always require a short drive to the river with your guide. Daily adventures could 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 in the on-site hot tub, or retire early to prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 8: From Skeena River Lodge to Home

After your week of fishing, you’ll enjoy breakfast on Sunday morning before beginning your 30-minute drive back to the Northwest Terrace Regional Airport (YXT). From Terrace, you’ll board your flight to your home destination.

Accommodations

Skeena River Lodge features modern, well-appointed guest cabins and lodge rooms for single or double occupancy, although single occupancy is customary here. Each spacious room features a private bath, WiFi, and ample clothing storage space. 

The main lodge building is spacious and elegantly furnished. The dining room, game room, and lounging areas are all comfortable and will make you feel at home. The lodge also boasts outstanding wellness facilities such as an infrared sauna, a Swedish sauna, a steam room, and an outdoor Jacuzzi. Adjacent to the main lodge is a 150-foot-long casting pond with stocked Kamloops Rainbow Trout for practicing your two-handed casting.

Food

The cuisine at Skeena River Lodge is exceptional, featuring hearty hot breakfasts with strong coffee, riverside cooler lunches including hot soups, and fabulous dinners featuring fresh meat and vegetables with desserts. Guests of Skeena River Lodge will be well-nourished 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.

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

Spring Steelhead (March 30 - April 27):

7 nights / 6 days = $7,690 CAD

Chinook on the Fly (June 1-July 6):

7 nights / 6 days = $6,790 CAD

Grand Slam (July 5-August 2):

7 nights / 6 days =  $7,690 CAD

Deluxe Steelhead/Coho (August 2 - October 5):

7 nights / 6 days = $7,690 CAD

Premium Copper (August 2 - October 5):

7 nights / 6 days = $9,190 CAD

What's Included:

• Ground transfers between Terrace and the lodge
• Daily Guide Service
• Lodging at Skeena River Lodge
• All meals at Skeena River Lodge
• Hot tub and sauna use
• Wifi
   

What's Not Included:

• Fishing equipment and flies
• British Columbia Fishing License
• Airfare to/from Terrace (YXT)
• Gratuities for lodge staff
• Gratuities for guides
• Alcoholic beverages

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 jet boats and rafts. The rocks on the main Skeena tend to be large and somewhat awkward

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 Skeena River Lodge Family Friendly?

This trip is best suited to anglers or groups that like to fish for fresh anadromous fish and enjoy a high level of service and comfort at the day’s end. Guests will be swinging flies, most often with Spey rods, while wading. The spring season requires being able to fish through varying degrees of wet and/or cold weather. Chinook anglers should be prepared to throw long, heavy sink tips and heavy flies.

Will I see other anglers?

Depending on the river and the time of year, yes you will 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 Skeena River Lodge.

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.