The Skeena's "Big" Attraction
First, there's the Skeena, chock full of 5 species of salmon, steelhead and Dolly Varden char. Then, there are the tributaries - the Kitimat, the Kalum, the Bulkley, the Babine, and dozens of others. Factor in the countless lakes that make up the Skeena watershed, and consider that the lower Skeena is an ocean estuary, and it comes as no surprise that sport angling is a major industry in the Skeena valley.

Fly-Rod Records: Near the town of Terrace, a recreational fishing hub only a hour's direct flight north of Vancouver, the scenery is spectacular, the river is swift, and the fish are big - so big, in fact, that they break world records. Chinook salmon (sometimes known as "king" or "spring" salmon), have been known to weigh in at close to 50 kilograms. Super-sized steelhead trout and coho salmon are common.

A Fish for Every Season: The best time to fish the Skeena is the month of July and early August, when the murky spring run-off of June has disappeared, the days are long and warm, and the river is full of giant Chinook and summer-run steelhead.

But the Skeena is a year-round fishing river, with each season offering its reward. Steelheading begins in March, when water levels are low, and by May, chinook are beginning to arrive. In late August and September, as the King salmon darken in preparation for their fall spawning period, summer-run steelhead remain strong and the main runs of coho begin to appear. Fly-fishing for both species extends into October and November, with Dolly Varden char adding to the season of plenty.

In temperate Terrace, where some rivers remain ice-free, wintering steelhead can be caught in December, January and February.

Catch? Or Release? Check British Columbia fishing regulations, and consult Skeena River outfitters and guides for up to date information on Skeena watershed size and species restrictions. Harmless release of the river's giant salmon and trophy steelhead can be challenging; use "barbless" hooks, keep the fish horizontal, and keep it in the water as much as possible. Landing nets and gloves can damage the scales and protective mucous of the fish.

Tributary Trip: Rafting the Babine
When "grizzly bear briefing" tops the list of safety procedures for your next rafting trip, chances are you're in for a true adventure. With a reputation for having the highest concentration of grizzlies in North America (estimate, 100), and a world famous rapid known as Grizzly Drop, the Babine-to-Skeena river route is an ideal choice for eco-tourists seeking to combine wildlife viewing with whitewater thrills.

Most Babine rafting trips - about a week in length - begin in the river's headwaters of Babine Lake (the longest natural lake within British Columbia), and end near Hazelton, on the Skeena River. Babine Lake, famous for its trophy-sized rainbow trout, cutthroat trout and lake char, is located just east of Smithers, midway between inland Prince George and coastal Prince Rupert.

Rafters can anticipate a rollicking Class III ride to the Babine's junction with the Skeena River north of Hazelton. Trips are timed to coincide with spawning season in late summer and early fall, virtually guaranteeing dramatic photos of grizzlies and eagles feeding on bright red sockeye and sturdy steelhead. Two thrills await paddlers in the Babine Canyon, on the river's lower stretch: the Class IV Grizzly Drop and the sight of the mighty bears themselves.

Cultural Perspective: Many Babine-Skeena rafting trips make local culture part of their itinerary. Hikes to abandoned First Nations villages, totem pole tours in native villages such as Kispiox, and a visit to the 'Ksan Historical Village and Museum, on the Skeena proper, combine human history with the natural history adventure of a lifetime.