Steelhead Valhalla Lodge & Suskeena Lodge

Imagine a river that on its day is so clear that each pink and white tinted boulder can be seen as if with a magnifying glass. Imagine its banks lined with a cathedral of trees, sometimes four layers deep, before giving way to a backdrop of distant white-capped mountains.

The Skeena River system in northern British Columbia has long been known as the ultimate for anglers seeking to test their skill against the mightiest of steelhead. The Skeena River is the largest producer of trophy-sized steelhead in the world with the annual run ranging from 25,000 to 40,000 fish. In addition, over five million Pacific salmon pass through these waters on their journey to spawning grounds each season.

Located more than 100 miles from civilization and accessible only by plane, the Sustut is the least fished of all the famous Skeena tributaries, and here you will find Steelhead Valhalla Lodge and Suskeena Lodge.

Owned and operated by the Sweetwater Travel, these small, exclusive nine-rod lodges offer some of the finest fishing for large steelhead in Canada. Steelhead Valhalla consists of a timber lodge, five log guest cabins, and a washhouse complete with showers, sinks and indoor lavatories. There is a modern kitchen, an expansive open-beam dining room, fully supplied fly-tying benches and a lounge area. Meals are hearty and home-cooked, including breads and pastries, and are served family-style. Domestic Canadian wines are served with evening meals. Lunches are served by your guide along the river. Suskeena Lodge is similar in style with well-furnished cabins with stove, sitting area and ensuite bathroom.

Guests fish the lower 20 miles (32km) of the Sustut River, as the upper 80 miles are utilised exclusively for salmon and steelhead spawning and rearing the key to this steelhead haven. Guests are transported each day along the river by jet boat, usually fishing three rods to a guide. Those that fish for steelhead regularly will understand that this is not a numbers game, and that the advantage of the Sustut is the average weight of the steelhead which is 15 lbs, with many running of 20 lbs and larger and the reliability or stability of the water conditions for those who have travelled a long way to fish.

The province of British Columbia has officially recognized the steelhead as a trophy fish. A catch-and-release sportfishing ethic has been encouraged with emphasis placed on returning fish to the river so that they may spawn and perpetuate their splendid race. Steelhead Valhalla Lodge and Suskeena Lodge require that all guests abide by this practice.

While fishing for great steelhead, you'll also have the opportunity to enjoy seeing eagles, moose, bears and everything that British Columbia's beauty has to offer. The scenery is simply unbelievable, and every trip on the river offers vistas both breathtaking and unique.

Steelhead Valhalla Lodge & Suskeena Lodge

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Steelhead Valhalla Lodge & Suskeena Lodge

Steelhead Valhalla Lodge & Suskeena Lodge

2013 Package Rate:

$6,150 per person

Price includes:

•    Full board and accommodation based on double occupancy.
•    Six days guided fishing.
•    Transport on the river by jet boat.
•    Air transfers from Smithers to Minaret Creek.

Price does not include:

•    International flights.
•    Internal flights from Vancouver to Smithers.
•    Accommodation and meals in Smithers
•    Alcoholic and soft drinks.
•    Fishing licenses and Steelhead Tag ($400)
•    All applicable taxes
•    Gratuities to the house staff and fishing guides.
•    Items of a personal nature.

Deposit
A deposit of 50% of the trip price is required to secure a reservation. The balance of the cost is due by July 15. Cancellations are non-refundable. Steelhead Valhalla Lodge and Suskeena Lodge recommend that all guests purchase travel insurance.

Steelhead Valhalla Lodge & Suskeena Lodge

Time Difference
Montreal: GMT -4 hrs Vancouver: GMT -9 hrs

Flight Time from the UK
London - Montreal: 7 hrs 20 mins
London - Vancouver: 9 hrs 55 mins
London - Calgary: 9 hrs 20 mins

Internal Flights
Vancouver - Williams Lake: 1 hr 10 mins
Vancouver - Smithers: 1 hr 50 mins

Visa Requirements for UK Citizens
None

Species
Steelhead is the primary species with the odd opportunity for a King or Silver salmon.

Season to Travel
June - October

Tackle and Kit
For the larger species such as salmon and steelhead we would recommend 12-14ft doublehanded 8-9 weight rods or a 9ft single-handed 8-9 weight rod with floating line or sink tips. For the other species use a 9ft single-handed 5-8 weight rod with floating line. Additional equipment required includes 5-30lb leader material, flies, chest waders, waterproof jacket, lifejacket, collapsible wading stick, insect repellent and polarised sunglasses.

Clothing
Canada has a variable climate and you should dress accordingly with comfortable layers that can be shed or put on accordingly. June through July is generally warm, come September the weather can be cooler with frosts in the mornings and evenings. Dress code at all the lodges is informal.

Steelhead Valhalla Lodge & Suskeena Lodge