Bow River Fishing Report - August 9, 2026

What the heck happened to all the bugs? After the drastic drop last week the bugs kind of disappeared for a couple of days. But now they are back. The fishing has been kind of tough, but the slightly cooler weather, that is on the way, may change things for the better.

There continues to be large amounts of evening caddis, along with some mayfly action during the day. There have been sporadic hatches of Blue Winged Olives and Trico's, but not the usual clouds. Hoppers are increasing in numbers and become more of a factor every day

Bow River Flies - Staff Picks - David

Left to Right from top: King Halo Bugger, Kreelex Minnow, Drunk & Disorderly, Henneberry Hopper, Para Sipper Mayfly, Evan's Hopper, Frenchie Jig, Tung Prince Nymph, CDC Pheasant Tailed Jig

Bow River Fishing

The dry fly bite has been fairly difficult, with some rewarding moments. There are several hatches usually happening over the course the day. Steady risers have been hard to come by, but not impossible. Persistence, and keen observation, are the the main keys to success. Caddis, and PMD imitation have worked the best for targeted fish. For prospecting for fish a hopper-dropper set-up will give some decent top water action, while also providing opportunities for nymph eats. Best of both worlds.

Nymphing continues to be a very effective way to fish likely water. Pheasant Tail and Perdigon nymphs have been a pretty good choice recently. The lower water levels and warm weather tend to send fish down to the depths to avoid both the heat and predators. Deep and slow through deeper, walking pace, pools and runs will offer some of the best chances, but don't neglect the faster head, and tail out water, that the fish will often occupy when they are actively feeding.

The streamer fishing is going pretty good, but the lower water levels have made things a bit of a challenge. Working deep and slow through pools and deeper runs will provide chances, but so will the heads of pools, tail outs, and other faster water. Smaller bait fish patterns continue to work well.

Trout spey is a great way to cover a large amount of water, while taking in the tail end of summer. Running a small streamer, or wet fly, through a riffle, or run, can provide quite a bit excitement. While the casting has an soothing, and hypnotic, nature of its own.

Eastern Slopes

The Eastern Slopes streams, and rivers, are low and clear. Lot's caddis, often mid-afternoon PMD's, and, of course, terrestrials. The dry fly action should benefit from the cooler mid-week weather, and cloudy conditions. 

 Pike

The cooler weather should help to keep the fish biting, to a certain extent, but weeds have become a major issue, and most local lakes are being adversely effected.  Click to learn about tips and tactics for Northern Pike.

Books

Books expressing the spirit and intent of fly fishing, and fly fishers.

Bow River Flies:

Dries: Peacock Caddis, Bloom's Parachute Caddis, Swisher's Dancing Caddis, Skater Tot, Foam Run Caddis, Goddard Caddis, X-Caddis, Chubby Chernobyl, True Golden Stone, Fool's Gold, Ken's Chubby Jack, Morrish Hopper, Para-Wulff, Adams Irresistible. Double Vison PMD

Streamers: Clarke's Rat, Gartside Leech, Jig Slum Lord Mini Leech, Coffey's Sparkle Minnow, Galloup's Butt Sump, Galloup's Mini Bangtail, Complex Twist Bugger, Bow River Bugger, Kreelex Minnow, Articulated Sparkle Yummy, Lynch's Drunk and Disorderly, Zonker Skullhead

Nymphs: Jimmy Legs, T.J. Hooker, SP Tungsten Bead Mop Fly, Werminator, Wire Worms, Reese's Pieces, Puparazzi Tungsten Jig Caddis, BH Extended Body Caddis Pupa, Tungsten BH Rock Grinder Jig, Tung Red Tie Pheasant Tail Jig

Trout Spey: Soft Hackle Hare's Ear, Tungsten Energizer Squirrel Jig, Jerry's WMD Sculpin Intruder, Stu's Mini Ostrich Intruder, Brett's Klamath Skater, Steel Plow Skating Dry, Hoody's Hanger, Mini Mousey McMouseface

Please continue to pinch your barbs, while trying to keep the fish wet, as much as possible, Please limit handling your handling, and try to release fish in a timely manner. All of these actions should help reduce the stress put on the fish. 

We continue to ask that you handle your fish with care by:

Rob