Skookumchuck River Native Trout
Wild West Slope Cutthroat Trout
The Skookumchuck River is popular with fly fishermen for its wild West Slope Cutthroat trout. It is a small freestone tributary to the Kootenay River. As a result of the limited access and thanks to the healthy aquatic ecosystem, this truly wild and natural fishery holds a healthy population of large Cutthroat Trout. The Skookumchuck River is best by wading and you can expect to find cutthroats up to 16 inches.
Bull Trout
Bull Trout can be very aggressive and will attack streamers when they are feeding, we also use large nymph patterns that have proven to be very effective as well. These large trout can easily take any fly reel into the backing so we recommend at least a 7 wt rod and reel. Be prepared for an exhilarating fight that will keep you coming back to fish this incredible species of wild trout over and over!
What’s Included In A
Skookumchuck River Fly Fishing Trip?
Professional Guide
Transportation
Fishing Gear
*Hearty Lunch
Lasting Memories
Available Skookumchuck River Fly Fishing Packages
FULL DAY
9 Hours
$895
Professional Guide
All The Fishing Gear You Need
A Hearty Riverside Lunch
Transportation To & From The River
Lasting Memories
overnight
2 Days
$2,250
Professional Guide
All The Fishing Gear You Need
All Meals Provided
Transportation To & From The River
Lasting Memories
*All prices are in Canadian Dollars. Prices do not include the cost of BC Fishing Licenses or Gratuities.
Some Of Our Best Catches On
The Skookumchuck River
The Skookumchuck is a genuine river that produces trophy size Bull Trout and westslope Cutthroat Trout ! It is our equivalent to the world renowned Wigwam river but receives much less fishing pressure. This is a *walk’n’wade* trip as moderate hikes down to the river banks is the only way to access it’s remote canyon pools. The Skookumchuck river is highly recommended for anglers that are seeking a more intimate fishing experience and are willing to make these approaches to the river.
As a result of the limited access and thanks to the healthy aquatic ecosystem, this truly wild and natural fishery holds a healthy population of large Bull Trout and westslope Cutthroat Trout. Your efforts will be rewarded with some of the finest fly fishing imaginable! We fish “The Skook” a little later in the summer as the migratory Bull Trout start moving up this Kootenay river tributary in late July which is the main attraction for fly fishermen and women.
We offer a unique multi day/overnight trip for the adventurous anglers that would like to experience everything this truly remarkable wilderness river has to offer! You will stay in one of our camper trailers or if you are after a more rustic camping experience you can stay in one of our wall tents. This allows us to be at the prime fishing pools at first light without having to make the lengthy bumpy backroad trek in the wee hours of the morning.
We only have a limited number of rod days on this world class river so advanced booking is highly recommended … contact ‘Kimberley Fly Fishing’ to start planning your fly fishing adventure on “The Skook”
Our Customers Love Fishing With Us!
Had an awesome day on the St Mary’s River, plenty of fish both caught (and missed). Nathan guided and knows the river extremely well.
Would recommend to all and will be on the list next time I’m in the area.
Well what can I say other than I just experienced my very best day dry fly fishing….. Ever! Nate has set the bar very high with the day he provided on the river! He is a natural at pointing out spots to hit, rows like a master, super pleasant and knowledgeable! All the boxes checked for what I look for in a fishing guide . Top it off with a great lunch and exquisite scenery! Doesn’t get any better ! Thanks guys, I can’t wait to get out again with you all.
Amazing day catching fish pretty much the whole time. Guide knew where the fish were and shared his knowledge with us.
There was a bit of a delay getting going but once we got on the water it was everything we could have wanted in a fishing day.
The staff and guides at Kimberley Fly Fishing are fantastic and were a huge help in getting me set up with the new rod and reel I needed! The shop is outfitted with a ton of selection and reputable brands to choose from and the shop staff are happy to help and share their expertise. I’ve been on two guided trips so far (float and walk and wade) and my guides Nathan and Alec both provided fantastic experiences! I highly recommend them for all levels and abilities!
Skookumchuck River Fly Fishing Frequently Asked Questions
When Is The Best Time To Fish The Skookumchuck River?
The Skookumchuck River is closed to fishing from April 1st to June 15th annually. Typically, due to the spring run off, the water levels are higher and more murky during the early part of the season opening on June 15th. With that said we generally don’t start fishing the Skookumchuck River until between July 1st and July 15th…. The Skookumchuck River will continue to produce well until about the end of September at which point we like to start fishing the Kootenay River.
What Kind Of Fishing License Do I Need To Fish The Skookumchuck River?
The Skookumchuck River is a Class II fishery when it is open. So you are required to hold a valid Basic BC Freshwater Fishing License as well as a BC Classified Waters Fishing License. Fishing licenses can be purchased in our fly shop or online here. We ask that you have both required fishing licenses before the day of your Skookumchuck River guided fishing trip.
What Kind Of Fly Fishing Gear Do I Need To Fish The Skookumchuck River?
All of our guided fly fishing trips include all the gear you need to fish the Skookumchuck River including Rods, Reels, Flies, Line and Tippet. If you prefer to use your own gear that is ok too. Unfortunately, we do not supply boots and/or hip waders. As this fly fishing trip is a Walk ‘N’ Wade trip we recommend having a ggod pair of boots or shoes for hiking into the fishing holes
Are We Able To Keep The Fish We Catch On A Skookumchuck River Guided Fishing Trip?
No! Kimberley Fly Fishing has a strict catch and release policy on our guided fly fishing trips. Our native trout are our “Business Partners” and catch and release improves native trout populations by allowing more fish to remain and reproduce in the ecosystem! This catch and release policy ensures that anglers like you will be able to enjoy fly fishing native trout on our rivers for years to come.
Is A Deposit Required When Booking A Skookumchuck River Fly Fishing Trip?
Yes! When you book a St Marys River Fly Fishing Trip online we will confirm your booking date is available. Once we have confirmed your booking, you will receive an email with a instructions to pay a 25% deposit.
When Do I Have To Pay For My Skookumchuck River Fly Fishing Trip?
You are required to pay a 25% deposit upon booking your trip. The remainder of the cost of your fly fishing trip is due 48 hours before your trips date.
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Kimberley Fly Fishing Ltd.
Whether your looking to experience the best fly fishing in BC with an all inclusive guided fly fishing trip, or you’re looking to get your hands on some of the top brands in fly fishing gear, Kimberley Fly Fishing has you covered!
Our Location
220 Ross Street
Kimberley BC Canada
V1A 3E6
Call Us
Shop - (250) 427-2278
Nathan Cell - (250) 420-7886
Toll Free - 1-888-592-2278
Email Us
KIMBERLEYFLYFISHING@GMAIL.COM
KIMBERLEYFLYFISHING@GMAIL.COM