For the true anadromous junkie needing access to fresh sea-run fish every month of the year, there may be no location equal to Terrace, British Columbia. Here the fishing season never ends, only changes. And for this reason and this reason alone, Brad and Kim Zeerip have chosen to make the region their home and business headquarters.
Located overlooking a sweeping bend in the mighty Skeena, Z-Boat Lodge serves as a cozy base for small groups of anglers interested in fishing the bountiful rivers of the region, including the Copper, Kitimat, mainstem Skeena and numerous smaller tributaries of the Naas, Douglas Channel and Skeena. During the classified months of September and October, anglers booking a six-day fishing trip will typically fish two days on the Copper, two on the mainstem Skeena and two on Douglas Channel tributaries.
For anglers serious about floating the lower and middle reaches of the Copper or targeting bright kings and large cohos, Z-Boat Lodge is an ideal base. Perfect for groups of six to eight anglers, single accommodations, excellent meals, and a wide range of interesting angling options await those who visit this remarkable region. Stays of varying lengths welcomed.
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"Brad and Kim Zeerip, the owners/operators of Z-Boat, are first rate. Accommodations, food, hospitality are all superior. Kim's cooking is outstanding with exceptional emphasis on fresh, organic salads, vegetables, and healthy main courses. Brad and his partner/guide Scotty are knowledgeable, extremely hard working and enthusiastic. They are excellent fishing companions with just the right blend of fishing and casting tips, and overall daily blend of conversation and quiet solitude that most Steelheaders enjoy. These guys are real professionals." J.K., CA
Z-Boat River Lodge Travel:
To reach Z-Boat Lodge flights should be booked to Terrace BC. Flights should be booked to Terrace via Vancouver, preferably with an evening arrival. Your hosts will meet you at the airport in Terrace and transfer you to Z-Boat Lodge, approximately 15 minutes away. A trip to the liquor store is offered for those wishing to purchase alcohol.
Z-Boat River Lodge Documentation:
A valid passport is required for entry into Canada.
Z-Boat River Lodge Fishing:
The Skeena River and its coastal tributaries are some of the best kept secrets in the steelhead and salmon fishing world. Featuring spring, summer and fall fisheries, anglers have the opportunity to experience a great variety of scenic wilderness rivers and lengthen their fly-fishing season. Spring is a great time of year to fish coastal B.C. with steelhead in more rivers than at any other time of year. Anglers will fish a variety of sink tips; interchangeable heads are best to cover conditions on large and small rivers. Kings, bright and fresh from the ocean are available from late April until mid-August. The spey rod is an excellent choice for these big brutes. Summer steelhead fishing begins in August and continues through November. The Copper River is an excellent dry fly and greased line fishery; a multi-tip line system will ensure a proper presentation regardless of conditions. Northern coho, the largest of all coho, provide additional sport and variety in September and October. 12 – 14 pound fish are common with some 20 plus pound brutes. Single hand rods with sinking tips work best, as stripping flies it the most effective technique. Anglers will drift in custom whitewater rafts or access rivers via jet boat. There will be one guide for every two or three anglers. Guides will accompany anglers and assist them with fly suggestions, fishing strategy, safety, fish photos and whatever the angler needs.
Z-Boat River Lodge Accommodation and Meals:
Z-Boat Lodge is set very near the bank of the Skeena River. Anglers will each have a private room with full bath, in groups up to 6. With larger groups, two will share a room. Home-cooked gourmet quality meals are served in the lodge dining area, overlooking the Skeena River with scenic mountain views. A glass of wine or beer is offered with dinner. The lodge room is spacious and comfortable for relaxation with a bar and pool table for your enjoyment. Anglers are encouraged and welcome to bring additional alcohol if desired.
Z-Boat River Lodge Climate:
Spring and fall may be mild or cool with rain. Temperatures range from 35 – 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer may be warm to hot on sunny days or cool with possible rain. Fall weather ranges widely so be prepared for cold weather.
Z-Boat River Lodge Season:
Year-round
Z-Boat River Lodge Fish Species:
All Pacific salmon species, summer, winter and spring steelhead
Z-Boat River Lodge Capacity:
6-8 anglers
Z-Boat River Lodge 2010 Rates:
$3,800 CAD for a 6 Night / 5 Day fishing package plus HST
Included:
Meals, accommodations, guiding, transfers from Terrace airport to the lodge, wine and beer with dinner.
Not Included:
Airfare, gratuities, alcohol, licenses (about $250 CAD), and HST.
British Columbia