Fly fishing for Chinook is considered the Holy Grail of anadromous fish. These fish show up around Terrace in late May and early June. We can successfully fish for them from early June till the end of July. The rivers of choice are the Kitimat, Skeena, Copper and Kalum Rivers, subject to regulations and water conditions. This is challenging fishing which requires guests to throw heavy sink tips all day long. For those lucky enough to connect with these river giants it is a life-changing experience.
We recommend 13.6 to 15-foot spey rods in the 8-9-10 weight to cast heavy sink tips with big flies. Reels should be large arbor with a minimum of 300 meters of backing 50 pounds test minimum. Skagit heads full floating, intermediate or sinking will work well. I would bring all of them, because the Skeena is very different than the Kitimat or Copper Rivers. Bring sink tips in the t8, t11, t14 and t17.
What you can expect when booking this package
We recommend 13.6 to 15-foot spey rods in the 8-9-10 weight, to cast heavy sink tips with big flies. Longer rods help lifting big tips out of the water.
Reels should be large arbour with a solid drag. We have seen reels break under the pressure of big Chinook. Make sure your reels have a minimum of 300 meters of backing 50 pounds test minimum. We prefer the braided line like Fireline. But of course, you can use any other braided line.
Skagit heads full floating, intermediate or sinking will work well. We recommend bringing all of them, because the Skeena River is very different from the Kitimat or Copper River.
Bring sink tips in the t6, t8, t11, t14 and t17.
We strongly advise Maxima ultragreen 25lb test. We have seen many large fish breaking off other brands of leader material.
We like the blue with chartreuse/prom dress. It’s one of the best Chinook flies. In addition, we can recommend the Bjorns Super Prawn. Other green, pink, blue or black leeches/ flies also work well.
It can be very wet, cold and warm all in the same day. Wearing different layers is a must. Most times the jet boat ride will be cold and during the day it can get quite warm in the sun. Make sure you bring a solid rain jacket and a chest wader.
Ask us anything. We’re happy to be there for you. You can also browse our Q&A section and find answers for frequently asked questions.
