If ever there was a model for what a perfect steelhead river would look like, it would most certainly be the Copper River. It is a mid-sized river with countless, picture-perfect runs – long classic glides, incredible pocket water, and magnificent tailouts that just scream for a waking dry fly.
The Copper River, also known as the Zymoetz, is a special Class II Classified Water, and there are only a handful of guidable days allowed on it each year. We are pleased to be able to offer anglers the rare and unique opportunity to experience this amazing watershed with the expertise of our well-trained and highly experienced guide staff.
Copper steelhead begin entering the river in mid-July when the water is warm; therefore, they are extremely aggressive. Fish range in size from 8 to 15 pounds on average; however, fish in the high teens are common, and guests land fish well over 20 pounds each year. Every once in a while, a fish turns up in the 25-30-pound range.
Accessible via a logging road that parallels the river for a large portion of its length, we primarily fish the Copper by drifting with a raft or walk and wade.
Our Premium package offers anglers the opportunity to enjoy two days of guided fishing on the Copper, in addition to fishing the very best of the Skeena in sections 1, 2 and 4, and other renowned tributaries such as the Kalum, Kasiks, and a few unmentionables.
What you can expect when booking this package
We like the 13-14- foot 7-8-9 weight rods. You will be fishing the Skeena, Kalum and Copper River. The Skeena River is big, and distance will be a plus. The Copper and Kalum River are medium size rivers, easier to cast and fish.
Skagit, rage, scandi or shooting heads would be the best lines to use for this time of the year. But any line you are comfortable with casting is ok.
In the early summer season, we like to use light tips or even go full floating on the Copper River. Later in the year, the heavier tips like t6 would be used most of the time. But make sure you bring the following tips, because the Kalum River is very different than the Skeena or Copper River. Bring Intermediate, t3, t6, t8 and t11.
We strongly advise Maxima ultragreen in the 15-20lb range. We have seen many large fish breaking off by other brands of leader material.
Early season the fish are very aggressive and not picky. Black with blue flash flies like the HOBO Spey are one of the best flies. Bunny leeches with some blue flash also work very well. Pink flies will do fineas the river gets clearer. Bring some dry flies for the Copper River if you like to fish a dry fly.
It can be very wet, cold and warm 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.
