Our famed Nicholas Dean Steelhead fishing packages cover the whole of the Steelhead season in Canada, fishing on the mighty Skeena River and all of its watershed. Originating in northwestern British Columbia, the Skeena is an incredible river and holds some of the largest Salmon populations found anywhere in the world. Flowing for an impressive 570 kilometres, it’s the second-longest river in Canada, behind only the Fraser. The Steelhead populates the river nearly all year round, and the fishing is best in the three main seasons, spring, summer and fall.
The spring Steelhead fishing starts in the remote waters at the heart of the British Columbian wilderness. At this time of year, the fishery focuses on many wild and scenic rivers – ranging from small, coastal rivers, to medium-sized rivers like the Kalum, to the broad, shallow riffles of the mighty Skeena. By summer, the meanest, hottest, sea-lice covered Monster Steelhead are in the rivers in abundance, and at this time of year, the lower Skeena is the place to be. By fall, the season that has justifiably made the Skeena famous, the Steelhead have entered their home tributaries, and these fish pour in strong, fresh from the sea. At this time of year, any cast in these fabled waters has the potential to connect with a world record Steelhead.
Our Nicholas Dean Steelhead Fishing packages are based on two anglers per guide and trips are available with either five or six days of fishing.
Fishing for the mighty Steelhead on the Skeena River gets split into three main seasons, spring, summer and fall. Each of which offers the travelling freshwater fly fishing angler a different experience.
In the spring, the Nicholas Dean Steelhead Fishing programme can be extraordinarily productive and ultra exciting. So many guests who’ve been lucky enough to experience this fishery once, now return year after year, and it certainly is a favourite amongst travelling rods.
After years of exploration, the spring season now starts in some of the more remote waters in British Columbia, and the fishing takes place on many of the wild rivers. Early in the season, the small, not-to-be-named coastal rivers, medium-sized rivers like the Kalum and the broad, shallow riffles and tailouts of the mighty Skeena are the best places to wet a line. Anglers can expect to target Steelhead up to and over 20lb in weight.
One of the bonuses of the Spring programme is midway through the season, good numbers of aggressive Chinook begin to show, adding an extra dimension to the already brilliant fishing.
If you’re after the ultimate Trout – the meanest, hottest, sea-lice covered Monster Steelhead – you’ll want to be on the lower Skeena during this part of the year. These healthy summer fish average around 8lb to 15lb, but a 20lb fish is not out of the question, and a world record specimen isn’t beyond imagination. Famed for their unstoppable runs and acrobatic leaps clear of the water, and they’ve been responsible for leaving many an anglers handshaking, wanting more.
A bonus of fishing during the summer season is that travelling rods will have the chance to target all five species of Pacific Salmon. The weather is generally pleasant too.
The Fall or Autumn is the season that has made the Skeena justifiably famous. The rivers summer Steelhead have entered their home tributaries, and they pour in strong and fresh from the sea. They average 8lb to 15lb, but fish to over 20lb get regularly caught, and so do specimens over 30lb. These fish are surface-oriented and, in the right conditions, can readily be taken with waking dry flies.
At this time of year, the scenery is equally as spectacular as the fishing. The freshly snow-capped mountains, which rise 3000 feet above the river, are blanketed with deep green conifers, and the autumn colours of orange, red and green extend as far as the eye can see. Fishing at this time of year is an experience that will live long in the memory.
The Skeena River is famous for all of the five Pacific Salmon species, however as the name suggests, the Nicholas Dean Steelhead Fishing programme is renowned for one thing – Monster Steelhead!
These ultra-chrome rockets on the Skeena average between 8lb and 20lb; however, there’s always the chance of a more significant specimen and each season fish to over 20lb and even 30lb grace anglers nets. An interesting fact from the Skeena is that marine biologists have caught Steelhead to over 44lb in their test fishery, and our guides on the river believe there is no better place in the world to catch a world record.
The fish populate the river nearly all year round; however, the three seasons of Spring, Summer and Fall are the most productive times to fish. Travelling rods will fish different beats during each part of the season, depending on where the fish are at each particular time of the year. Below is a guide to what part of the watershed fishes best at what time of the year.
Lower Skeena – All year round
Upper Skeena – Summer And Fall
Lower Copper – Summer And Fall
Upper Copper – Fall
Kalum River – All year round
Kitimat – Spring
Lower Nass – Fall
Remote Coastal Rivers – Spring
As well as Steelhead during the summer season, there’s also the chance to catch all five Pacific Salmon species. Between July and August, Chinook, Coho, Sockeye and Chum Salmon all inhabit the waterways. Many of these species have left the rivers by fall, apart from a few remaining Coho Salmon.
To find out more about Yellow Cedar Lodge and our Nicholas Dean Steelhead Fishing programme in Canada, visit our YouTube channel.
Our Steelhead programme runs over three seasons, spring, summer and fall. The spring season is limited to six to eight anglers per week and runs from mid-March to mid-May. The summer season is from mid-July to the end of August and the fall season is from September to mid-November. The fishing is based on two anglers per guide, and all-inclusive packages are available with either five or six fishing days.
All the guides on the river are experts in their field and know the waters, Salmon species and fishing like the back of their hands. Many of the guides have been working on the Skeena for many years and have the ability to find fish in the harshest of conditions and most challenging water. All have the unrelenting desire to pursue trophy Steelhead, Salmon and Trout, helping you land that personal best and enjoy a fishing trip of a lifetime.
Most of the beats on our Steelhead programme are ideal for fly fishers who wish to wade to catch their quarry; however, if you prefer to fish from a boat, there are places and stretches to suit all requirements. A typical guided fishing day runs between 8.00 am and 5.00 pm. However, one thing that is incredibly popular amongst guests who visit the Lodge is that you can venture out without a guide and fish extra hours if you wish, putting into practice everything your guides have taught you throughout the day.
To complement the world-class guides, fishing and overall first-class Skeena Steelhead programme, Nicholas Dean purchased the incredible Yellow Cedar Lodge in April 2020, with the aim of offering travelling freshwater fly anglers the finest fishing accommodation found anywhere in British Columbia. Situated right on the banks of the Skeena, Yellow Cedar Lodge – a Tourism BC Approved Accommodation – features large, vaulted ceilings to highlight the impressive mountain views, numerous amenities and a large wraparound deck for guests to take in the majestic riverscape.
The accommodation features both single and double rooms, with comfortable double or king beds. Each room is equipped with a private en suite and shower, with water taken from the Lodges own private well. Each room also has ample storage for your clothes and luggage and is just steps away from all the amenities the Lodge offers. Some rooms even have their own private terrace or sitting area, which overlooks the beautiful garden and river.
Yellow Cedar Lodges spacious dining room has two large tables and several smaller custom cedar tables. So there is plenty of room to relax, unwind and savour the fine dining from the Lodges experienced culinary team.
The bar – adjoining the dining room – is fully licensed and well-stocked with wine, beer and spirits for guests enjoyment. The staff are on hand with all the drink/menu lists and will be more than happy to show you.
If you fancy enjoying the latest hockey or football game or want to play a game of pool or foosball after you’ve finished dinner? The downstairs games room and bar has it all and is equipped with a 75″ HD satellite TV. Other amenities include a sauna, fully equipped gym, pool table, hot tub and Wifi, all designed to make your experience as leisurely as possible.
The Lodge has a modern, custom wader room, updated in May 2020, and it’s the area where you can keep all your fishing tackle and clothing. Each guest gets provided with a large roomy stall, and it’s here where you can leave your rods, reels and personal gear. You can also hang your waders, jacket and other layers to dry overnight in front of the gas fireplace. The Lodge is very proud of this well-crafted wader room – the finest in the north!
We are sure that you will have a comfortable stay at the Lodge as you search for that trophy, Steelhead or Salmon of a lifetime!
You will enjoy the cooking of the Lodges top-notch culinary team, headed by experienced red seal chefs Amanda & Mark Ross, who go to great lengths in providing first-class meals featuring locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
To ensure that you are fueled up for a full day of fishing ahead, you will find a hearty breakfast each morning, which might include eggs, cereal, fresh fruit, toast, sausage or bacon, juice and coffee. Your packed lunch will be prepared for you each morning and sent with your guide for the day.
When you return to the Lodge in the early evening, your hosts and fellow guests will join you for some fireside appetizers. Following the appetizer, guests will join a Nicholas Dean host – Chad, Dustin, Sky or Rob – for a hearty three-course meal, featuring entrees such as prosciutto-wrapped halibut with crispy yam straws or NDO’s signature braised beef short rib.
Most guests tend to work up quite a large appetite after an adventurous day outdoors, but there’s no need to worry about quantity, as food seems to always be available at Nicholas Dean. The only thing you need to worry about is your waistline!
If you have any dietary requirements then please let us know before you travel, the Lodge is more than happy to cater for the requirements you may have.
The Yellow Cedar Lodge is the perfect destination for the outdoor explorer. With untouched, virgin terrain and endless wildlife, you are sure to experience adventure and the native flora and fauna, unlike anything you have ever seen before. The Lodge has guides to help ensure you experience everything the woods has to offer. As well as world-class Salmon fishing, it has connections with hiking, sightseeing, halibut fishing and even heli-skiing companies.
Although the fishing days are fixed, the below itinerary is still flexible should you require additional free days to explore at the beginning or end of your holiday; we can tailor this itinerary to suit you personally. Feel free to talk to our travel consultants who can explain all options available.
Please note that depending on what international airport you depart from, travel to this destination may involve an overnight flight and/or an overnight hotel.
Once flights are available, your itinerary will be finalised.
Depart Any international Airport (See Details)
Arrive Vancouver Depart Vancouver
Arrive Terrace
On arrival, a representative from Yellow Cedar Lodge will be waiting to drive you the 20-minute transfer to the Lodge.
Overnight Accommodation: Yellow Cedar Lodge (Twin Room) F/B
Over the next 5 days, after breakfast, you will depart with your guides to different sections of the Skeena. You will be fishing for the mighty Steelhead. These ultra-chrome rockets on the Skeena average between 8lb and 20lb; however, there’s always the chance of a more significant specimen and each season fish to over 20lb and even 30lb grace anglers nets.
The fishing on our Steelhead programme is based on two anglers per one guide.
Overnight Accommodation: Yellow Cedar Lodge (Twin Room) F/B
After breakfast, your guides from Yellow Cedar Lodge will transfer you all back to Terrace airport for your return flight home.
Depart Terrace
Arrive Vancouver Depart Vancouver
Arrive Home
Please note that depending on what international airport you wish to return to, travel from this destination may involve an overnight flight and/or an overnight hotel. Once flights are available, your itinerary will be finalised.
The season runs from Mid-March to Mid November.
Season: All Year
Peak: August to September
Weight: 8lb to 30lb
Average Weight: 15lb
Season: April to August
Peak: June to August
Weight: 10lb to 50lb
Average Weight: 25lb
Season: August to September
Peak: September
Weight: 8lb to 20lb
Average Weight: 12lb
Season: July to August
Peak: July
Weight: 4lb to 10lb
Average Weight: 6lb
Season: July to August
Peak: July
Weight: 8lb to 30lb
Average Weight: 12lb
Season: July to August
Peak: July
Weight: 2lb to 8lb
Average Weight: 4lb
N/A
Remember that Sportquest Holidays' services are completely FREE! When you book a trip with Sportquest Holidays, you never pay more than when you book directly with the lodge and flights independently.
| From | To | Duration | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16/03/2025 | 16/11/2025 | 7 | Enquire for prices and availability | Enquire Now |
Prices are based on two anglers sharing transfers, fishing and accommodation (unless otherwise stated) and are correct at the time of going to press. Subject to time of year or date and currency fluctuations, these prices may fluctuate slightly due to flight price increases or fuel surcharges.
I'd read online that this was one of the best destinations in the world if you wanted to target Steelhead and I must it was spot on. I had fantastic weeks fly fishing and landed good numbers of fish every day, including a handful of proper specimens. The lodge, staff, food and everything else was brilliant too, I'd thoroughly recommend it.
I had never fished outside the UK before, but I did enjoy a few days to Scotland each year, but with the decline in fishing and the increasing prices, I thought I'd bite the bullet and book a trip to Canada. A week after returning, writing this and looking back, I must say I'm so glad I did - it was incredible. I think I now officially have the bug and am already plotting next years adventure.
I've been lucky enough to fish the Skeena for the past five years and I must say it's something I'll never get tired of. I thought for this year I'd try a different destination so ended up booking a week at Cedar Lodge, after reading some glowing online reviews. I'm glad I did, it was a beautiful lodge set in some incredible surroundings, the staff and food were first class too. I'd definitely like to return again next year.
Highlights for us was the guides and staff at lodge so friendly and knowledgeable and helpful in every way nothing was to much trouble 'other guests were just as friendly. Fishing was reasonable as we had to cope with low temperatures minus 5 to 7 common. We did catch a variety of different species but my own highlight was the 15lb steelhead stunning fish.
Thank you for the great review and it was great catching up with you on the phone. plus congrats with the Steelhead.
I look forward in helping you both with the next adventure.
Fraser River Lodge, nestled on the shore of the mighty Fraser River in British Columbia, is the perfect location to spend a relaxing week's holiday while being surrounded by some of the world's best scenery and wildlife. Choose between Sturgeon, Salmon, or Wilderness Fishing. We can customise your fishing trip around your favourite style of fishing.
This exclusive Sportquest-hosted trip ventures into the Alaskan wilderness, to the famous Goodnews River Lodge. This exciting freshwater fly fishing adventure offers travelling rods the opportunity to target and catch all five Pacific Salmon species, as well as Rainbow Trout, Arctic Char and even Dolly Varden.
The Coho or Silver Salmon, as they’re also known, are powerful game fish, famed for their hard fighting qualities and aerial acrobatic displays. They get found in good numbers throughout the Skeena region from around the middle of August until the end of October, and our Nicholas Dean Trophy Coho package runs right through the peak summer and fall seasons.
The Chinook Salmon, or King Salmon, are the biggest and most aggressive of all the Pacific Salmon species and the Skeena watershed in British Columbia, Canada, is one of the best places to catch them. So if you’re a fly fishing angler looking for one of the ultimate freshwater experiences, then our Nicholas Dean Chinook Salmon package is perfect for you.
Flowing for an incredible 570 kilometres, the Skeena River is the second largest river in Canada, behind only the Fraser. Originating in northwestern British Columbia, the river and its basin is one of the most famous spots in the world for Salmon fishing. The river and its tributaries host vast numbers of migrating Steelhead, Chinook and Coho.
