ABOUT

About Skeena River Fly Supply – A Historical Woven Tapestry

Skeena River Fly Supply was born where wild water meets wild country—on the banks of British Columbia’s legendary Skeena system, in the quiet town of Smithers, BC. It began not as a business plan, but as a calling. Founder Jaap Kalkman together with his wife Roanne, built the company from a deep love of steelhead fishing and a lifelong respect for the rivers that shape us as anglers. Every fly, every material, and every idea grew from time spent wading cold currents, observing fish, and honouring the traditions that make fly fishing more than a sport—it makes it a way of life.

That spirit continues today. Skeena River Fly Supply is now being led by  Michael Van Wormer, a veteran of the fly fishing industry with over 30 years of experience. Michael brings with him not only a deep understanding of the craft, but a clear commitment: to work closely with Jaap to carry forward the original vision, values, and legacy that define Skeena River Fly Supply. This is not a change in direction, but a strengthening of purpose.

Jaap remains an active and vital part of the company, continuing to contribute through fly tying and design while sharing his wealth of fly fishing and fly tying knowledge. His hands, experience, and passion are still woven into the patterns and principles that guide everything we do.

Our fly fishing website  and catalogue is  more than a collection of products—it is a reflection of a river, a community, and a shared devotion to steelhead and the art of the fly. We invite you to fish these flies with confidence, knowing they are born from experience, shaped by passion, and grounded in respect for the water that connects us all.