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 fly 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 river, Z-Boat Lodge serves as a cozy base for small groups of anglers interested in fly 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 Octobers, anglers booking a six day fly 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 river or targeting bright kings and large cohos, Z-Boat Lodge is an ideal base. It is perfect for groups of six to eight anglers, providing single accommodations and excellent meals. A wide range of interesting fly fishing options await those who visit this remarkable region. Stays of varying lengths welcomed.
Location:
Z-Boat Lodge is located on the banks of the Skeena River in Terrace, BC.
Fishing Program:
The Skeena River and its coastal tributaries are some of the best-kept secrets in the steelhead and salmon fly fishing world. Featuring spring, summer and fall steelhead and salmon 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 fly fish coastal BC with steelhead in more rivers than at any other time of year. Anglers will fly fish a variety of sink tips; interchangeable heads are best to cover conditions on large and small rivers. King salmon, 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 fly 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 is 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.
Fisheries:
The variety of fisheries available while visiting Z-Boat Lodge is astounding. These include the mainstem Skeena River, Skeena River tributaries and various tributaries of the Naas and Douglas Channel.
Accommodations 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 six. 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. Anglers are encouraged and welcome to bring additional alcohol if desired. The lodge room is spacious and comfortable for relaxation with a bar and pool table for your enjoyment.
Sample Itinerary for a 6 Night / 5 Night Package:
Day 1: Arrive at the lodge and settle in for the week.
Days 2-6: Full days of guided fishing
Day 7: Depart lodge in the morning
