Skeena River, one of British Columbia’s largest and most iconic rivers, offers an unparalleled experience for anglers. From the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding mountains to the variety of fish species, the Skeena River has become one of my favorite fishing spots.
This blog will detail my experience fishing the Skeena, from preparation to the catches, along with key information you need to know if you plan a trip there.
Skeena River Fishing
The Skeena River is located in northern British Columbia, Canada. Flowing for about 610 kilometers (379 miles), it empties into the Pacific Ocean near Prince Rupert. The river’s location places it at the heart of some of the most pristine wilderness left in North America, making it not only a fishing destination but also a nature lover’s dream.
My first encounter with the Skeena River was one of awe. As I stood by the riverbank, the sheer size of the river and its fast-flowing water made me realize that this wasn’t just any fishing trip. It was going to be a real adventure.
Fish Species in the Skeena River
One of the main attractions of fishing the Skeena is its variety of fish species. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, there’s something for everyone.
Steelhead Trout:
Steelhead fishing in the Skeena is legendary. These sea-run rainbow trout are known for their fight and stamina. I remember the first Steelhead I hooked. The battle lasted over 15 minutes, with the fish darting across the water, making leaps and runs that tested my skills and patience.
Pacific Salmon:
The Skeena is home to all five species of Pacific salmon—Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, Pink, and Chum. My best experience came during the Chinook run when I landed a hefty 35-pound fish. Chinook are the largest of the salmon species and provide a thrilling fight. Coho and Sockeye, though smaller, are equally exciting, with Coho being particularly acrobatic.
Cutthroat Trout:
Cutthroat trout are also a common catch in the Skeena. While not as big as the Steelhead, they offer a fun challenge for fly fishers. I found them near river mouths, especially during their spawning seasons.
Dolly Varden and Bull Trout:
These char species are often found lurking in the deeper pools of the Skeena. While not as sought after as Steelhead or salmon, they are a joy to catch. Dolly Varden, with their vibrant colors, is especially beautiful.
Best Time for Fishing on the Skeena River
Timing is everything when it comes to fishing in the Skeena River. The river’s fish species have distinct seasons, so knowing when to go is crucial to success.
Spring (March-May):
In early spring, you can start seeing Steelhead moving upstream. This is when I had my most memorable Steelhead fishing experiences. The cooler water makes the fish more energetic, and they put up an incredible fight.
Summer (June-August):
Summer is salmon season. The Chinook run, starting in June, peaks in July. If you’re after a trophy Chinook, this is the time to visit. In addition to Chinook, Sockeye, Pink, and Chum also move through the river. My trips in mid-July were always focused on salmon fishing, and it never disappointed me. Warm weather, long daylight hours, and ample fishing opportunities make this my favorite time of year to fish the Skeena.
Fall (September-November):
Coho salmon runs are dominant during the fall months, particularly in September and October. These aggressive fish love to hit flies and spinners, making them a fun challenge. The fall also offers a quieter experience, as fewer tourists visit the area. I found some of my most peaceful fishing experiences during this time.
Winter (December-February):
Though fishing is possible during the winter months, conditions can be harsh. The fish are slower, but hardcore anglers can still target Steelhead and Cutthroat trout. I haven’t fished the Skeena in winter yet, but it remains on my bucket list for a future trip.
Gear and Tackle Recommendations
Fishing the Skeena requires a bit of planning in terms of gear. Since the river is large and the fish are strong, you’ll need to be prepared.
Rod and Reel:
I prefer using a 9-foot, 8-weight fly rod for Steelhead and salmon fishing. The strength of the fish and the river’s current make a heavier rod necessary. I also carry a spinning rod with a medium-heavy action when fishing with spoons or spinners. A quality reel with a strong drag system is essential—these fish will test your gear.
Line and Leader:
For fly fishing, I use a weight-forward floating line with a sinking tip for Steelhead, especially in deeper pools. For salmon, especially Chinook, I’ve found that a 20 to 25-pound test leader is a must. These fish are powerful, and a lighter leader risks breakage. For Cutthroat and Dolly Varden, a lighter leader, around 10 to 15 pounds, is sufficient.
Flies and Lures:
For Steelhead, large streamers in colors like black, purple, and pink worked best for me. For salmon, I’ve had great success with spoons and spinners, particularly in silver or chartreuse colors. Coho, in particular, loves flashy lures, while Chinook can be caught with both flies and hardware.
Fishing Techniques
Fishing the Skeena River involves a mix of techniques, depending on what you’re targeting and the time of year.
Fly Fishing:
Fly fishing on the Skeena is popular, especially for Steelhead. I’ve spent hours swinging flies through deep runs, feeling the tension build as I anticipated a strike. Determining the proper depth is crucial. Using sink tips helps get the fly down where the fish are. For salmon, especially Coho, I found stripping streamers through riffles and shallow runs highly effective.
Drift Fishing:
Drift fishing is another technique that works well on the Skeena, particularly for Chinook. Using a float with roe or a plastic egg imitation is a tried-and-true method for targeting these big fish. The fast current requires careful line management, but once you get the hang of it, the strikes are unforgettable.
Spin Fishing:
Spin fishing with spoons or spinners is incredibly effective for all species in the Skeena. I often use a medium-heavy spinning rod when targeting salmon or Steelhead. Casting into fast-moving water and letting the current carry the lure is a productive method, especially in deeper pools where the fish tend to hold.
Skeena River Regulations and Conservation
It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local fishing regulations before heading to the Skeena. The river saltwater Fishing part of a sensitive ecosystem, and conservation is taken very seriously here.
Licensing:
You’ll need both a basic British Columbia fishing license and a specific Steelhead conservation stamp if you plan on targeting Steelhead. The fishing regulations are updated annually, so make sure to check the latest rules before your trip.
Catch and Release:
Many areas of the Skeena require catch-and-release for specific species, especially Steelhead. I highly recommend practicing catch-and-release even when not required. The Steelhead population is a fragile resource, and preserving it for future generations is crucial.
Seasonal Closures and Restrictions:
Certain sections of the Skeena may be closed during specific times of the year to protect spawning fish. For instance, some tributaries have restrictions to allow salmon to spawn undisturbed. Be sure to check the regulations for the specific area you’re planning to fish.
Lodging and Local Amenities
The Skeena River is somewhat remote, but there are several options for lodging and amenities along its banks.
Lodges and Guided Tours:
There are multiple fishing lodges along the Skeena that offer all-inclusive fishing packages. On my first trip, I stayed at one of these lodges, which included guided tours, meals, and accommodations. This is a great option if you’re new to the area or want the expertise of a local guide. These guides know the river like the back of their hand and can help you find the best fishing spots.
Camping:
For the more adventurous angler, camping along the Skeena is an option. There are several campgrounds near the river, some with basic facilities. I spent one of my trips camping along the banks, and the experience of waking up next to the river and fishing at dawn was incredible. Just remember that the weather can change quickly in this part of the world, so pack accordingly.
Local Towns:
The towns of Terrace and Hazelton are the closest urban centers to the Skeena. Both offer accommodations, restaurants, and shops where you can stock up on fishing gear or supplies. Terrace, in particular, has several tackle shops where you can get local advice on the best flies and lures for the current conditions.
Safety Considerations
The Skeena River is wild and untamed, so safety should always be a priority.
River Conditions:
The Skeena’s current is fast and strong, especially during high water. Wading can be dangerous, and I recommend using a wading staff and spiked boots for extra stability. Even then, it’s important to be cautious and avoid wading in deep water or fast currents.
Wildlife:
The Skeena Valley is home to bears, including grizzlies, so being bear-aware is essential. On one of my trips, we encountered a bear near the river Freshwater fishing.
