The Kispiox is a river of subtle moods, endless secrets, and staggering rewards. The family of head guide Jim Allen first homesteaded in the valley four generations ago in 1906. Since that time they have become as much a part of the river as the river has become a part of them. When you are with Jim Allen and his crew of talented guides, all of whom call the Kispiox home, you are in very good hands. Clients enjoy the lavish comforts of spacious, double occupancy rooms in the newly constructed Bear Claw Lodge. A massive timber frame structure with panoramic views of the upper river, Bear Claw has set a new standard for elegance in the Skeena watershed. Each day anglers float different sections of the river in rafts and swing flies through a remarkable variety of water that is home to some of the largest steelhead in the world. In addition to the Kispiox, anglers have the option of fishing the Skeena and lower Bulkley, depending on conditions. For all who appreciate skilled guides, fine accommodations and a shot at some of the world’s largest wild steelhead, this is the place.
Kispiox River Fishing Travel:
To get to the Bear Claw Lodge on the Kispiox you will need to make travel arrangements to and from Smithers BC via Vancouver. Packages are based on the actual dates as opposed to the days of the week. Please plan to arrive Smithers the night before your listed start day at the lodge. We recommend staying at the Hudson Bay Lodge at 800.663.5040. Upon arrival at the airport please call the lodge and have their free shuttle come pick you up for transfer to the lodge.
Please make your overnight hotel reservations as soon as possible (overnight accommodations in Smithers are not included in your package price). At the end of your stay, you will be taken to the airport in the morning to catch a flight for Vancouver that typically departs just after 10:00AM.
Kispiox River Fishing Documentation:
A valid US passport is required for entry into Canada.
Kispiox River Fishing:
The Kispiox is a Skeena River tributary and one of the most famous steelhead rivers in the world. From late August through mid October, the Kispiox is an excellent dry fly and greased line fishery and as the season progresses and water temperatures drop, anglers spend more time fishing a variety of sink tips (note: many Kispiox anglers fish with sink tips regardless of time of year). The fishing can remain excellent through the second week in November and later if water conditions permit. Kispiox fish are known the world over for their size and range from 7 to well over 30 pounds, with the average fish typically weighing in around 13 lbs. Small two person rafts are employed to access water, but all fishing is done while wading. The Kispiox has over 50 miles of fishable water that varies greatly in nature. We personally find it among the most interesting and technically demanding rivers in the region. While the Kispiox is somewhat prone to blowing out under excessive rain, it comes back in quickly and anglers also have the option of fishing the main-stem Skeena and the lower Bulkley. Anglers will fish two per guide unless specified otherwise. All Kispiox fish are wild and must be released unharmed as quickly as possible.
Kispiox River Fishing Accommodations:
Bear Claw Lodge is an elegant timber frame structure overlooking the remote upper reaches of the Kispiox River. All anglers share rooms with king sized beds and attached private baths. All and all, Bear Claw ranks among the finest angling accommodations in all of BC. Additional amenities include a hot tub, lodge computer with internet access and a satellite phone (usage not included).
Kispiox River Fishing Climate:
While the weather can be mild, always be prepared for cold when visiting the interior reaches of BC in the fall. Rain and snow can occur at almost anytime and typical day temperatures range from 30-60 degrees F.
Kispiox River Fishing Lodge Season:
August – early November
Kispiox River Fishing Lodge Fish Species:
Steelhead
Kispiox River Fishing Lodge Capacity:
10 anglers
Kispiox River Fishing Lodge 2010 Rates:
$6,000 CAD plus 12% HST
Included:
Meals, accommodations, guiding, transfers from Smithers airport to lodge, wine, alcohol, flies, basic BC fishing licenses.
Not Included:
Airfare, HST, gratuities, satellite phone time, arrival and departure taxes, classified waters licenses.
British Columbia