Lykkers, if you’re looking for a fishing adventure like no other, the Skeena watershed is the place to be!

The region is home to numerous rivers, offering an unmatched fishing experience for those seeking the elusive Steelhead. The Steelhead, known for its fierce resistance, provides thrilling fishing moments as it journeys upstream, earning its reputation as a coveted prize for anglers.

A Difficult Season for Steelhead Fishing

Despite the allure of the Skeena watershed, 2019 proved to be an exceptionally challenging year for Steelhead fishing. Anglers worldwide were met with unexpected setbacks, as the Skeena and Nass basins experienced a significant decline in Steelhead migrations.

Compared to the previous year, the average upstream migration dropped by 58%, marking one of the worst seasons in the last two decades. This downturn in fish numbers set a troubling record for the past ten years, leaving many fishermen disappointed.

Luck on the Nass River

However, even amidst such difficulties, a fishing trip to the Nass River in October proved to be a good ifea. Planning a Steelhead fishing trip well in advance carries its uncertainties—no one can predict the weather conditions or the volume of fish returning to the rivers during the designated time.

During particularly tough years, a successful fishing experience often requires a combination of patience, skill, and an element of luck. This trip, despite the season’s challenges, turned out to be a fortunate one, as the Nass River offered an unexpected abundance of active and sizable Steelhead.

The Advantage of Remote Fishing Locations

One of the key factors contributing to the success of this particular trip was the decision to fish in the Nass River basin, which is logistically more difficult to access than the Skeena. The increased difficulty in reaching the area resulted in far lower fishing pressure compared to more popular fishing spots.

With fewer anglers vying for their catch, the Nass River offered a less disturbed environment, which likely played a significant role in the success of the fishing experience.

The Impact of Weather on Fishing Conditions

In the final week of September, heavy rains affected rivers throughout British Columbia, creating challenging conditions for anglers. For several days, the river levels were high, and the water became murky, making it harder for fish to navigate and for anglers to catch them. Despite these setbacks, patience and perseverance paid off.

As soon as the water levels stabilized and the color of the river cleared, conditions improved rapidly, and the fishing experience took a turn for the better. The Steelhead were actively swimming upstream, providing anglers with the rewarding experience they had been hoping for.

Anticipating the Next Chapter

The journey did not end with the catching of Steelhead, as many other exciting moments occurred during the trip. While the numbers of Steelhead caught were respectable, the true rewards came from the emotional highs of overcoming the challenges of a tough season.

The full details of the fishing adventure, including the thrilling moments of catching these remarkable fish, will be shared in a forthcoming article. The focus of the next piece will not just be on the statistics but on the feelings and experiences that made this fishing trip unforgettable, despite it taking place during one of the most difficult seasons in recent history.

Tight lines, Lykkers! Whether you're reeling in a trophy Steelhead or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery, every moment on the water is a story worth telling. Until the next adventure, keep exploring and embracing the wild!