The Sustut River is a steelhead fly-fishers dream with a variety of characteristics from clear glassy tail-outs to rolling riffles that are sure to leave anglers looking forward to their next visit. It is also home to some of the largest Steelhead caught in BC!

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The Sustat River


The Suskeena Lodge is located on the Sustut River, a tributary of the famous Skeena River. The Sustut is truly a jewel that for the most part is relatively unknown, except among a core group of fanatics that fish the river on an annual basis, hoping to crack the magic 30-pound mark for Steelhead.  There are few rivers where it is possible to catch Steelhead up 30 pounds. On the Skeena River these include the Babine, Kispiox or the Sustut.

Occasionally other rivers produce these giants, but these three rivers produce them annually. The Sustut is widely regarded as one of the finest of the northern Steelhead rivers in British Columbia. The fish on the Sustut are among British Columbia's largest and average around 12 pounds but often reach well into the high twenties. There are 30-35 pound fish landed yearly.

 

One of the reasons to go and fish on the Sustat

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The Fishing


Angling for wild steelhead in British Columbia is 100% catch and release using only single barbless hooks. Double handed/Spey rods in weights 7-9 are the most effective.  Single hand rods can be as effective but are limited by angler ability and endurance, especially on some of the legendary canyon water where the back-cast room is limited.  

Dry fly fishing on the Sustut can be exceptional and is an experience that is promoted by the guides and rarely disappoints.  Be sure to bring along an 8 or 9wt single hand rod equipped with a floating line for this.  Regardless of your preference, whether it using a heavy sink tip with a 6” intruder, or swinging a floating line with a classic Atlantic salmon pattern, the guides will cater to, and work with you to maximize your chances of having success while enjoying special moments in a special place!  

The lodge has access to 20 miles of river, beginning in the upper river at the confluence of the Bear River, all the way down through canyons and rapids, into meandering freestone sections of long runs in the lower river, to its confluence with the mighty Skeena. 

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Advantages of the Sustat


The Sustut River has several advantages over other rivers, no crowds, clear water and its fish are huge...built for a long cold winter. Due to its remote nature, it is too expensive for weekend travellers to visit, so there is little angling pressure and much of the water remains unfished throughout the season.

Suskeena Lodge is one of only two operations on the Sustat river.    A contractual arrangement is in place with the only other lodge on the Sustat, Valhalla, which means that there is no competition for pools or an early morning helter skelter race to get to the best areas.  You will rarely see another angler outside of those at the lodge affording guests, privacy, seclusion and tranquillity.

From a perspective of pure aesthetics, the river is visually very beautiful, with a great mix of long, boulder-filled runs, short pockets, great side channels and unforgettable glassy dry fly guides.

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The Lodge & Food


The Suskeena lodge has great views, overlooking a prime steelhead run and a mountainside flanked with cedar, aspen, birch and alder. In the autumn, the colours are simply beautiful.  With its panoramic mountain views and real crackling fireplace; Suskeena Lodge provides a true wilderness experience whilst being warm and comfortable. 

The main lodge is a charming custom built log building with ample room to relax for a drink, eat a great meal or simply to sit and enjoy drinks by the fireplace. With just nine anglers, the atmosphere is exclusive, homely and at the same time vibrant.

Meals are prepared with pride with an emphasis on health and wellness.  A full service plated supper is served every evening along with quality complimentary wine from around the world, paired accordingly to the night's feast. Foods include homemade bread, roasted meats, grilled fish and hand-crafted desserts. Lunches are served shore side by the guides and include hearty soups, chilli and even the infamous cheeseburger!  Suskeena Lodge has an emphasis on fine food, quality wine and excellent coffee!! 

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Guest Cabins


Our guest log cabins are some of the best Steelhead accommodations in the business. Each cabin is cleaned daily and accommodates 2 anglers. They are heated with good quality wood stoves with a temperature control vent.  Cabins are warm, well furnished with brand new flannel linens.  Each cabin at Suskeena has an en-suite bathroom with flushing toilet and on-demand hot water. Laundry facilities are available.

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A Typical Day


Following a hearty breakfast, anglers are paired three to a guide and can expect to be on the water from 8.30-6pm.   Typically a bankside lunch is taken through the day although there is always the option to return to the lodge for a break in the event of 'BC' weather.   Anglers move up and down the river using jetboats and guides rotate anglers around the pools in a courteous manner avoiding any undue interaction with anglers from the other lodge.  At the end of the day a return to the lodge for a full plated meal.

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Getting to the Sustat


The lodge operates a Monday to Monday schedule. Guests typically fly into Smithers on Sunday via Vancouver, where they overnight prior to a short 45-minute charter flight the following day. Both journeys are very scenic so have a camera on hand.  On arrival at the private airstrip, you will be met by lodge staff and transferred by vehicle via a dirt road to the lodge, approx 25 mins.  The following Monday you will be returned to Smithers.  Poor weather can affect the charter flight so it is advised to overnight in Smithers on your return prior to any connecting flights the following day.

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Weekly Itinerary

Day 1
Sunday

- Arrive Smithers
- Overnight Smithers (accom not included)

Day 2
Monday

- 10 am Depart Smithers via Tsayata Air
- 45 min journey to private airstrip
- 25 min drive to the lodge
- 1pm lunch served
- Unguided fishing

Day 3-7
Tures-Sun

- 6 Full days fishing
- 8.30am-6pm on the water
- 7.30pm evening meal

Day 8
Monday

-Depart Lodge
-Return flight to Smither
-Follow on flight or Overnight Smitherd

Please remember poor weather can impact flight schedules. An overnight in Smithers is recommended on the return journey

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Availability and Pricing -2021

Season

The season runs from late August to late October

Rate

-Rates range from $8,250-$8,750 CAD + Tax
-Latest rates and availability on request. Please note that Suskeena lodge is typically fully booked every year so 12 months lead-time is recommended

Included

- Round trip private air charter from Smithers
- Seven nights full board accommodation
- Six days guided fly fishing (one guide per three anglers)
- Wine with supper
- All local and state taxes

Not Included

- Flight to and from Smithers
- Hotel in Smithers
- Fishing licenses and steelhead stamps ($400CAD)
- Gratuities (10-15% of trip price)

Note

-Package price is based on double occupancy cabins. Single supplements, for an additional fee, are available if space allows.

Best Times to Go

 

The Steelhead fishing starts in earnest in August and runs to mid-October.  The average fish is 12 pounds, but some can reach up to 30 pounds.

 

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