#4 on this list
Klickitat River
Washington, USA
The Klickitat River, a major tributary to the Columbia, is a gem for both summer and winter steelhead, with its summer run being particularly famous. Flowing out of the Cascade Mountains, it carves a steep canyon before emptying into the Columbia near Lyle. The river's distinctive glacial tint, due to its source near Mt. Adams, can make for challenging visibility but is also part of its charm. The prime summer steelhead season runs from August through October, offering consistent opportunities for anglers to swing flies. Winter steelhead arrive later, typically from December through March. Access is generally good, with numerous public access points, campgrounds, and boat launches along Highway 142. Much of the river is floatable, though wading opportunities exist. The Klickitat caters to a range of skill levels, from those just starting with two-handed rods to seasoned veterans. While not as remote as the Grande Ronde, it still offers a rugged feel. Expect some angler pressure in popular spots, especially on weekends. A Washington State fishing license with a steelhead endorsement is required. The Klickitat provides a reliable and scenic option for pursuing both runs of steelhead, often offering a more accessible wilderness feel than some other canyon rivers. **Highlights** * Reliable runs of both summer and winter steelhead. * Scenic canyon environment with views of Mt. Adams. * Good public access and floating opportunities. * Strong, acrobatic wild steelhead. * Consistent fishing from late summer through fall. **Watch-outs** * Glacial tint can affect water clarity, especially after rain or warm weather. * Can experience significant angler pressure in popular sections. * Road access can be steep and winding in parts. * Potential for high water conditions during winter and spring runoff. * Limited services along the upper river.
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#5 on this list
Skeena River System (Bulkley, Babine, Copper)
British Columbia, Canada
While a vast system, the Skeena and its major tributaries (Bulkley, Babine, Copper) represent a collective powerhouse for wild steelhead. Located in northern British Columbia, these rivers are renowned for producing some of the largest and most pristine wild steelhead on Earth, with fish regularly pushing into the 20-pound class. This is a destination for the dedicated steelheader, offering a truly wild and remote experience. The prime season for summer-run steelhead is typically late August through October. Access is often through lodges and guided trips, though some public access exists, particularly on the Bulkley and Copper near Terrace and Smithers. Fly-in camps on the Babine offer unparalleled solitude. The fishing is primarily swinging flies with two-handed rods. Expect cold, often wet weather, and true wilderness conditions. This is not a casual trip; it demands commitment, significant travel, and a healthy budget if opting for guided lodge experiences. Conservation efforts are paramount here, with strict regulations to protect these vital wild populations. The sheer size and power of Skeena system steelhead, combined with the epic backdrop of British Columbia's wilderness, make it a bucket-list destination for serious anglers, though one that requires careful planning and a deep appreciation for the remote. **Highlights** * Home to some of the largest wild steelhead in the world. * True wilderness experience with stunning B.C. scenery. * Multiple world-class tributaries (Bulkley, Babine, Copper) to explore. * High potential for solitude in remote sections. * Excellent opportunities for two-handed fly fishing. **Watch-outs** * Significant travel time and expense to reach remote locations. * Often requires booking through lodges or guides for best access. * Limited public access in many prime areas. * Harsh weather conditions (cold, rain, early snow) are common in fall. * Strict regulations and conservation closures are frequently implemented.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Klickitat River | Skeena River System (Bulkley, Babine, Copper) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | South-central Washington State | Northern British Columbia, Canada |
| Primary Fish | Steelhead (Summer & Winter) | — |
| Source | Mount Adams glaciers | — |
| Glacial Tint | Yes, distinctive milky color | — |
| Access Road | WA State Route 142 | — |
| Flows Into | Columbia River | — |
| Target Species | — | Wild Steelhead |
| Prime Season | — | Late August - October (Summer-run) |
| Key Rivers | — | Bulkley, Babine, Copper, Skeena |
| Largest Steelhead | — | Commonly 20+ pound class |
| Access | — | Guided lodges, limited public access |
| Fishing Method | — | Two-handed fly fishing (swinging flies) |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Klickitat River
- Reliable summer and winter steelhead runs
- Wild, acrobatic steelhead
- Good public access along much of the river
- Scenic canyon environment
- Opportunities for float fishing
- Glacial tint reduces water clarity
- Can experience high angler pressure in peak season
- Wading is often challenging due to strong currents and rocky bottom
- Limited services along the upper river
Skeena River System (Bulkley, Babine, Copper)
- Opportunity for world-class, large wild steelhead
- True wilderness experience with stunning scenery
- Excellent opportunity for two-handed fly fishing
- Potential for genuine solitude in remote sections
- Diverse system with multiple rivers to explore
- Significant travel time and expense for remote access
- Often requires booking through lodges/guides
- Harsh and unpredictable weather conditions are common
- Strict and dynamic conservation regulations
- Limited public access in many prime areas
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