This British Columbian jewel has been declared so rare and valuable by the Canadian Government that a special classified waters angling license is necessary for all anglers that fish the river.
These magnificent sea-going trout enter their natal Skeena drainage in late July, and move upstream into the clear headwaters of the Bulkley River by middle of August. Fresh fish continue to accumulate in the river right through the end of October and into November.
The Bulkley flows west from its head waters well above Houston, where it is joined by the Morice and nearly doubles in size. This magnificent river eventually winds its way west for approximately 100 km and empties into the main stem steelhead artery: The Skeena. One major advantage of selecting the Bulkley as your destination of choice is the amount of time the river takes to clear and drop after a big storm, which is common in the fall in British Columbia.
The Morice runs pure and clear in even the heaviest of rains and the Bulkley generally remains fishable in all but the worst of weather. It is also one of the fastest dropping and quickest clearing of all other rivers in the Skeena region, so anglers do not need to feel threatened by the thought of traveling all this way and not being able to fish. The river can virtually be blown out one day and fishable the next. Frontier Steelhead Experience Lodge is strategically located near the mouth of the Telkwa River which makes for minimal travel time to the various boat launches, whether you are fishing the upper or lower river. Frontier Steelhead Experience is one of only 2 full service fly fishing lodges located on the Bulkley and has been operating successfully for over 25 years.
As with all steelhead angling, if you’re looking to catch obscene numbers of fish, this trip probably isn’t for you! Frontier Steelhead Experience clients generally average 1-3 hook ups per angler per day, but keep in mind this is not always the case! Steelhead fishing is not a numbers game, it is about catching the most prized freshwater game fish that swims. Anglers willing to fish hard, listen to their guides, and put in a long day, will have the best potential of landing a trophy.
Headed out on your next adventure with us? The Fly ShopⓇ has you covered. As a thank you to our travel guests, enjoy 15% off all retail purchases for a year! — the perfect chance to gear up before your trip.
Whether it’s flies, leaders, apparel or a new rod and reel outfit, we’ve got everything you need to make your journey more comfortable, more successful, and more fun. (some exclusions apply)
